Passports and Postcards

Join me in conversation with my Guest Elaine Mercedes Mondeza. Yes, we talk about travel, social issues, and just about everything else. Elaine has been a nomad for the past eight years and finally has decided to make Spain her forever home. Elaine is so much more, an author, advocate, TEDx speaker and travel writer. Elaine and I talk about she did everything by the book, the way the system says to do it and then the system failed her. The American system failed her and so did American society. Elaine and I get a little hungry when we start talking about great dishes made by locals while in our destination, rather than eating at those chains. Eat where the locals eat, the place may not look like much, but trust us, the food is out of this world.To learn more about Elaine, check out FinallyElaineGet a copy of her book "Humanized: The Journey Back to You without Labels"FacebookBe sure to check out where it all started with her TEDx talkBe sure to check out more of  her writing To learn more about your Host, Randall McKeown

Join me in conversation with Erika Bud. Erika went from being a Los Angeles Police Officer to an Author of Children's Books, but not just any type of book as we find out in this podcast. Erika has travelled to some 30 countries and has actually lived in Spain and Australia and found her back in Barcelona for this podcast where she is spending a month with her son. Some people think you should not take your child out of school, however, we both agree that travelling to another country is a better way of educating. Erika is also a podcaster with her own podcast called "Planes, Trains & Kids Abroad"There is more to this story and we could have talked for hours. To find out more about Erika you can check out her webpage, check Erika out on Instagram and be sure to check out Erika's podcast, Planes, Trains & Kids AbroadTo find out more about the host, check out Randall McKeown

Join me in conversation with Mathieu Dufour. Mat and his pregnant wife and young son decided on a whim to sell everything and make the move from Canada to Mexico. Mat talks about the local ex-pat community and how they have been so helpful in assisting the family in settling in.It may not be the life for everyone and this may not be the final destination for these nomads. To connect with Mat check out his fitness program!

On today's podcast, I dive deep into a conversation with Linda King. Linda is a traveller who has visited 32 countries with plans to visit many more. Linda has captured her experiences, tips and tricks to help you. Founder of The  Smart Travelista, Linda has published a five-book series all geared to help you the traveller. To connect with Linda, you find more details at "The Smart Travelista"To find out more about the host "Randall McKeown" Be sure to check out my Book "Gonzalo Guerrero: Travel Insight with Randall McKeown"

Entrepreneur Steve Hetherington shares his vision for The Carolina Experience, a collection of premium accommodations located in small towns throughout North Carolina. From mountain condos to beachfront properties and glamping pods, The Carolina Experience offers a range of unique and high-quality stays designed to showcase the natural beauty and history of the Carolinas. Hetherington discusses the company's commitment to sustainability, its focus on serving the changing needs of travelers, and its mission to drive tourism and bring in tourist dollars to smaller towns. Join us for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship and the power of travel to connect communities.You can check out "The Carolina Experience". follow them on "Facebook", check them out on "Twitter", see what is happening with them on Instagram, and move over to LinkedInAbout the host, Randall McKeown

Listeners will be inspired by Patti Shales Lefkos' incredible story of determination, passion, and love for travel and education. From trekking over 700 kilometres of the Great Himalayan Trail to building homes and supporting education in Nepal, Patti has made a significant impact on the lives of many. She reminds us that one person can make a difference and encourages listeners to find their passion and keep moving forward. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking for inspiration and a reminder that it's never too late to make a positive impact on the world.Follow Patti on her trek via her website, and check out her book, Grounded by Granite, exploring the early life of Patti and her siblings spending time at their summer home, near Frontenac Provincial Park. Spending summers swimming, fishing and hunting for snapping turtles. I highly recommend you read her book, Nepal, One Day at a Time,  One woman's quest to teach, trek and help build a school in a remote village in the Himalayas. Patti's story will inspire do go the extra mile, to do what some say is impossible.About the Host, Randall McKeown

Host Randall McKeown and guest Gary Arndt take listeners on a journey around the world as they share their love for travel and learning. From exploring the Pacific and Southeast Asia to visiting almost all of the national parks in the United States, Gary Arndt share his experiences and insights on the places he has been. Gary hosts his own daily Podcast with a focus on history, science, mathematics, and geography, his daily podcast, Everything Everywhere, is perfect for anyone who loves to learn. Connect with Gary Arndt, and be sure to check his amazing travel photos. Be sure to listen to Gary's insightful podcasts and you are sure to learn something new. About Passports and PostcardsWhether you're an experienced traveller or simply interested in exploring the world from the comfort of your own home, Passports and Postcards is a must-listen podcast that will inspire and captivate you.Be sure to check out Randall's Travel books"Gonzalo Guerrero: Travel Insight with Randall McKeown" and " A September to Remember"

We delve into the inspiring travel experiences and entrepreneurial journey of Annie Chopra, founder of She the Queen. Join us as we take a glimpse into the life of a  young woman who pursues her passion for travel and empowering women. Through her experiences,  We look back to when Annie was a child of a diplomat and always on the move and the effects that has on a young person. Annie shares valuable insights that will leave you feeling inspired and motivated to take charge of your own life and pursue your dreams. Get ready to be inspired, and join us on this riveting journey of self-discovery and empowerment!To learn more about Annie, visit her website, and check her out on Instagram and on Facebook.Annie is also an author and you should check her books outSaving for a Good LifeShe TheQueen: Anniversary Edition be sure to check Volumes 2 and 3Thoughts: An Epitome of Teenage Perspectives#travelstories, #culturalinspirations, #excitingdestinations, #empoweringwomen, #shethequeen, #internationalwomensday, #womenempowerment, #travellessons, #positivethinking, #digitalnomadFor more about the Host Randall McKeown

Today join me as I have an interesting conversation with Australian cyclist, Bella Molloy, on the podcast. We discussed her journey of leaving Australia to pursue her passion in the French Pyrenees, where she and her husband set up a cycling business. We talked about her various modes of cycling - cycle commuting, road cycling, mountain biking, gravel riding, and bike packing. We discovered how bike packing has become an increasingly popular mode of slow travel, as people seek more immersive and sustainable experiences. We discussed how e-bikes are making cycling more accessible, even for people with injuries or fitness limitations. We explored how the Tour de France has become an electrifying event in France, and how the cycling community is incredibly tight-knit. And lastly, we looked at how  Bella Molloy is making a difference by providing female-only cycling tours in the Pyrenees and interviewing inspiring people on her podcast, Seak Travel Ride. Connect with Bella, on her website  Seek Travel Ride, over on Facebook, and even on Pinterest.To connect with the host, Randall McKeown

Randall McKeown of Passports and Postcards and his guest Rebecca E. Chandler will take you on an unforgettable journey around the world! From Egypt to Singapore and everywhere in between, dive into stories and advice from two seasoned travellers. Rebecca has explored more than 100 countries and she has just self-published her memoir and journals.  Randall has been to 13 countries. Plus, get insider tips on the do's and don'ts of haggling, the best places to stay, and the rewards of travel that will make an everlasting impact on your life. So pack your bags, it's time to explore the world with Rebecca and Randall!Keep in touch with Rebecca through LinkedIn,  her website, Instagram, YouTubeBe sure to check out Rebecca's Book  "IT WON'T HURT NONE"  - A story of courage, healing and a return to wholeness. Paperback and Hardcover are available through Amazon or Barnes & NobleThe ebook is available  through Kindle, NOOK by Barnes and Noble and Google PlayTo connect with the host Randall McKeown

Sit back and enjoy as your host Randall McKeown has a conversation with Scott Poniewaz, Head of EXEC at joinEXEC.com, a travel, hotel and life benefits program. Take a journey with Scott through his exciting experiences as a traveller, his journey with the international travel company he worked for, and his current projects. Listen as he talks about discovering new and exotic destinations, the changes in business travel due to the pandemic, his experiences of moving back to Montana, and his plans for the future. Embark on a journey of exploration and adventure with Scott to get a glimpse into his unique experiences and passions.For those interested in the great benefits of JoinEXEC.com, Scott has a special offer for our listeners.  For Passports and Postcards listeners, we are extending a lifetime annual access rate of just $195 per year* ($300 off the current $495/year rate). *Offer expires December 31, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST. The $195 annual rate only applies to the single-seat membership. The promo code will apply $300 off to higher-tier memberships. All memberships are subject to a nominal one-time initiation fee.Use Code:  PASSPORTS2023More about Scott Poniewaz can be found on LinkedIn, his website and the travel and life benefit program at JoinEXEC.comMore info about your host Randall McKeown can be found here

Host Randall McKeown invites some of the world's most interesting nomads and entrepreneurs to share their stories of health, travel, and career goals. From the twelve-year-old Ricardo Wilkens, who wanted to be a basketball player or a spy, to Randall's own story of pursuing a career in communications instead of a police officer due to his poor vision, you'll be inspired to take risks and think outside the box to achieve your dreams. Throughout the podcast, Randall and his guests explore life-long memories, how to be smarter about our health, and most importantly, how to create a life full of adventure. Join Randall and his guests as they discover what can be achieved with a little bit of courage and creativity.To travel is to learn as along the way you discover new cultures and a new way of thinking So much to see and do, and trying to find out what to do next is very hard.Ricardo is a Candidate for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Visionary of the Year Award, which starts a campaign from April 4 - June 16 to raise funds for the non-profit.  Follow Ricardo WilkinsWebsiteLinkedInInstagramBook

Just a brief update about Porter Airlines introducing flights from Toronto to Vancouver and back again.  Flights from YYZ to YVR. 

Born in Los Angeles, and not in the good part. Tara had an advantage, she was smart and knew what she wanted. A Yale and MIT-trained architect, Tara understands the need for a great foundation on which to build.Tara is a certified Life Mastery Consultant, a Certified Parent Educator, and a Religious Science Practioner and is certified by both The Brave Thinking Institute and Emerson Institute.Today on our podcast, Tara teaches us that it is our calendar and we can add to the Calendar what we want but fun has to come first!We talk about travel. Where do you want to go, when do you want to go, what are you going to do when you get there? Put it on your calendar, "commit" and you can make it happen. To find out more about Tara Brown click hereCheck her out on FacebookCheck out her book, Awaken Your Fertility

On this episode I welcome Chef Mathew Gray. At age 10, Mathew moved from New York to Los Angeles. At age 17 he travelled with Eagles, Fleetwood Mac and Pink Floyd for five years (selling official merchandise) before heading off to Le Cordon Bleu London where he studied to be a Chef.Give listen to this podcast and the extraordinary life travels of Mathew Gray. We explore his passion for food, people and health. You can find out more about Mathews's Professional life or Hawaii Food Tours

In this episode we speak with Christine Virbrant about her life as a nomad and the challenges and opportunities that arise when you allow yourself to travel the world. New cultures, new aromas, new foods, new languages and more experiences. Originally from South Africa, Christine found herself living and working in Taiwan, before relocating to the United States of America.Christine is a certified Life and Health Coach and she can help you. You can check Christine out at Being Better Me You can text  Christine at 1-706-397-5801 check her out on Youtube Waking Hope and be sure to like and subscribe. You can also find Christine on Facebook

In this episode, I review the crisis in the Airline Industry here in Canada. The industry opened too fast. It is not just the airlines but the Airlines that offer packages. They don't care about you, they only care about profit. The industry has been exposed through all social media platforms, grilled by the federal government here in Canada and still they don't care, you should.I can't in good conscious continue on providing travel services when the industry is in such free fall.

In this episode, we arrive at our last Gamer Reserve and have an excellent time. We go on several sunrise and sunset Safaris and spend a whole day in Kruger National Park. We all got along, although we were not riding together, we came together for the Sundowner overlooking the watering hole  #Safari  #Africa 

In this episode, we are travelling from Humala River Lodge in the Mpumalanga Highlands along the Panorama Route. We make stops at God'Window, Lisbon Falls, Bourke's Luck Potholes, and the Three Rondavels all part of the Blyde River Canyon.A visit by Tom Rourke, who had a strong hunch that there was gold in these parts, staked his claim. Tom had no such luck with Gold, however, others that came after him and were not too far from where his claim. was registered, many a man found gold and became rich. The road trip was long, from one camp to another, however, stopping along the way to see these sites was amazing. I hope in this episode to make you think of maybe planning a trip to South Africa and doing the Safari's and the Panorama Route. 

In this episode, I tell of our adventure of being stuck in a jeep on Safari at night with no one around. No cellphone reception and just sit there as easy prey for any night hunters. Come listen to what happens as 6 people are stuck  in the middle of the reserve under the stars. 

In this episode I relieve the experience of Day 4 of our South African adventure. We start off from The Shark Bay-Buffelsfontein Game and Nature Reserve-Khwa ttu- The San people, the first people of Southern Africa

In this episode, we continue with our South African Experience. Today we find ourselves waking up at The Shark Bay Hotel & Spa in Langebaan, West Coast South Africa.We explore Cape Columbine Nature Reserve, Cape Columbine Lighthouse, and lunch at Die Gaaitjie Restaurant in Paternoster-right on the beach, with the South Atlantic Ocean as our backdrop.We explore Velddrif on the mouth of the Berg River and then make our way to the West Coast Fossil Park where we are shown the fossils of the great animals that use to roam these parts. Finishing off our day with a champagne & sunset Cruise before heading back to The Shark Bay for dinner and our last night there before moving to Stillness Estate

Day 2 of our Cape Town adventure and they take us to Langa Township. Langa has been stated to be the safest Township to visit and probably the most walkable. The day was not all about Langa, however, my experience has left an impression and one that I wish there was more that I could do to eradicate racial discrimination even knowing that Apartheid was abolished many years ago, the race classification is still in the minds of all. We visit a schoolhouse and hear the children sing and watch them dance, there are hundreds of satellite dishes mounted on the walls, so even the poorest of the poor can still watch TV. We have lunch with a lady in the township and she serves up an excellent meal and tells how she used to create meals that would be packaged and sold at grocery stores. That business took a nose dive and she had to find another way to make money, so she contacted Touch Down DMC, the inbound tour operator who was guiding us and offered to make food for their guests. After eating her cooking, I can see things only looking better for her. We did go to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and then to the top of Table Mountain.

Probably the most visited Museum in South Africa, Robben Island has a history dating back several hundred years. Nelson Mandela spent 18 of 27 incarcerated years here on Robben Island.  Nelson Mandela, a Political activist and Lawyer fought to end apartheid in South Africa.We did also visit some artisans at Watershed, visited a Diamond Museum and had dinner at Cape Town Fish Market before being whisked away to Belle Maroc and some much-needed sleep. 

Yes, Africa Mother Land, touchdown. We have arrived in Cape Town, South Africa and we stay at the lovely Hotel Verde and our South Africa tour starts the next day with a full week in and around Cape Town. We journey to Belle Maroc Boutique Hotel in Bloubergstrand and have our first experience of the beach, the South Atlantic Ocean and of course Table Mountain.We meet our fellow travellers who will be joining us on this action-packed, go go go, tour of Cape Town before we head off to Johannesburg to go on Safari. We will need all our energy and food gives me energy. Let's Go..........

I generally don't like to come out and rip into a tour company especially being a travel professional myself. I have to come out and warn travellers to stay away from this company. I used this tour company for our trip of a lifetime, and financially it was and the experience was not so exciting. I must say that I enjoyed the Safari portion of our trip and the people in destinations Cape Town, Humala, Tshukudu and Kruger National Park were amazing. The people at the hotels, Belle Marco, The Shark Bay, and Stillness Manor were excellent as well. Our drivers and guides were also excellent.  Where I had an issue with staff in the North American offices.Everyone is still using the excuse of the Pandemic and staff shortages and people working from home and information is in different places. We live in a world of technology, a funny thing called computers, the digital world.The company sent us a receipt of all the money that we paid for this trip as we were allowed to pay it over time.  They had a flight for us from Cape Town to Johannesburg and when the agent called she told us we were starting our tour off on Safari. I don't think so, based on the information they provided to me we were flying from Cape Town to Johannesburg and that is how we booked our own flights, a flight into Cape Town and a flight out of Johannesburg. Give it a listen, beware of this tour company and if you are looking for one that will deliver on all their promises, you can reach out to me as I am a travel professional

On this episode we finally make it to see the windmills of Zaanse Schans, just north of Zaandam. This after our Trip with Viator was cancelled. We did receive an email around 10:30 at night the day of the Viator trip that a refund had been requested. I did not request one, but I guess they cancelled the tour.I talk about the trip to see the Windmills, and our trip to Bever so that my wife could purchase her Trekking poles.  Also we explore parts of Amsterdam by just walking. We came across many different canals and found the floating flower market. We used the Tram a lot today and they were comfortable (don't attempt to take them during rush hour if you are a tourist). We find a lovely restaurant to have dinner and then we tour Ann Frank House before heading back by Tram to Amsterdam Central and taking a train back to Zaandam. Packing and going to bed as we had a Taxi picking us up at 5:30am to take us to the Airport so we could catch our flight to Cape Town

In this podcast, I give a little synopsis of our first two days in Zaandam and Amsterdam. Viator failure to inform us that our Tour to Zaanes Schans to see the Windmills had been cancelled. To people watching from the lobby couch and having our first romantic dinner at McDonalds.We head on a search to Sugar City, Halfweg to the Style Outlets in search of Trekking Poles at Solomon. A rainy canal tour and the same on the hop-on and hop-off bus tour of Amsterdam finally finding a nice place to have dinner at De Dam at a restaurant called Mail Company Grand Cafe. 

In this episode, I look into the Status of Airports after returning and flying over 36000 km. I flew through Pearson International Airport, Schiphol International, Cape Town International, Johannesburg International, Paris International and back through Toronto International Airport.Do not believe everything you have heard or seen through the media or social media. I had no real bad experiences with lineups. Yes, there were some other issues....but you have to listen to hear. 

In this episode, I try to explain why there has been such a disaster at airports. I explain that the majority of staff, from pilots to cabin crew, to baggage handlers, to Check-In staff are short-staffed. When everything shut down in 2020 and we thought we might be able to ride this out, the longer it carried on, most Airlines laid off staff, or let staff go. Staff was hopeful that the pandemic would end soon, however, it has not. A large percentage of those people went and found jobs elsewhere. Now that almost all restrictions around the world have been lifted everyone and their brother, and their brother's brother want to travel. The demand is high and Airlines and Airports are having a difficult time staffing up.In this episode, I talk about my new adventure of returning to the travel industry with Passports and Postcards Travel

Hello. and welcome.  News to share with you all. Yes, I have been away for a while. It would take me hours to tell you all the reasons why I have been away. I am getting back into travel as a travel advisor under my own brand Passports and Postcards Travel. I am licenced to sell travel to Canadian travellers. However, since a lot of you are international listeners you can be my source in the destination.For my Canadian listeners, you need to book with a professional. Someone who can navigate you through this reboot of travel.

I am super excited as my South Africa trip that was booked in 2016 is a go for September 2022 with a three-day stopover in Amsterdam, well actually we will be staying in Zaandam) just outside of the city at the Inntel Hotel Zaandam.We are planning a private tour from Zaandam to Zaanee Schans to see traditional windmills and the countryside.  In Amsterdam, we plan to check out the Anne Frank house and for that, we will need to book tickets in early August.  We will have to do the A'Dam Lookout and I will be daring enough to do Europe's highest swing "Over the Edge" and dangle 100 metres above the ground. Care to join me.I will do a podcast about my journey in October and other podcasts will be about my experience in Cape Town and Johannesburg. 

The most difficult podcast.   Lenka joins me to discuss traveling as part of her career as a spokesperson, model and educator.Contact the HostRandall McKeown

In this episode, we welcome Robert Norton. Robert is no stranger to the show as he was the first guest in Season 2. Robert used his memories from many trips to Italy to build the foundation for this book of 15 stories. Robert makes us feel like we are right there with him, walking side by side, enjoying an authentic Italian dinner. Robert, makes you feel like you are experiencing everything.In this interview, we discuss the book, the thought process, future projects and of course future travels.  Cover photo credit Trish CampbellYou can find more about Robert's books atISBN's No.s978-1-7753815-0-1        Via Roma978-1-7753815-2-5        Full Moon Poems Whispered by a Muse978-1-7753815-4-9        Meditations on Photography - vol.1 Connections to Creativity978-1-7753815-6-3        Meditations on Photography - vol.2 Connections to Creativity

Join me in conversation as we talk about the profession of being a Destination Wedding Specialist with Nancy Barkley. Nancy is the Founder and Owner of Honeymoons and Get-Aways.  Nancy is an entrepreneur first and foremost. Nancy is an expert in her field as you will find out in our conversation. What better way to get a large group of people scattered all over the world together for your special day than with a perfectly designed and planned Destination Wedding. Nancy is also a Global Event Coordinator, Keynote Speaker and World Tourism Network Chair, Destination Wedding Group. Nancy has been featured on CNN and  Huffington Post. Nancy has been in Bridal and Luxury and appeared in many travel magazines.Nancy and I collaborated together with hosting Celebrity Wedding Planner David Tutera on the social audio platform "Clubhouse". To reach out to NancyWebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInAbout the hostPodvault

Today we welcome Ana Maria Torres. Before coming to America, Ana was an associate professor at Escula Tecnica Superior de Arquitectura in Madrid. Born in the Canary Islands, raised in Northern Africa and completed her studies in Madrid and now lives in New York City. That is a lot of travel.Ana is a curator, a professor and a licensed urban planner.  Connect with Ana Maria TorresLinkedInTwitterWebsite: AT ArchitectsBook: Carme Pinos: An Architecture of OverlayThe HostRandall McKeown

Just to let you know that I do not have a show for you. You may want to give a listen to some shows you may have missed. I have a new show with a guest coming out on March 26, 2022, and am lining up future guests. I want to thank each and every one of you for listening. Reach the hostrandall.mckeown@podvault.ca orrandall.mckeown@jlsetor.com

We need to stop the war in Ukraine.Get involved. 

Ed Davis is an accomplished author of such books as "The Last Professional" which is his most recent. Other books include "Road Stories",  "All Things" and "A Matter of Time".Ed's story is one about travelling freight trains. Yes, just like stories of hobo's Ed travelled the Western United States and all through Canada. Ed would not recommend it now as the trains move much faster and there are fewer and fewer open boxcars. Connect with EdWebsiteFacebookYoutubeInstagramTwitterConnect with meRandall McKeown

A public statement from the host of Passports and Postcards. Putin and his Military through the aid of the Belarus leader have invaded Ukraine and it is now day 7 and the Ukrainian military and civilians have taken arms to protect their country, their homes and their families. I do not agree with any country invading another. I don't care if it is USA, Canada, UK , France or any other country. War is not the answer.

Jonna Jinton, a young youtube artist and more. Jonna is an accomplished photographer, singer, painter, blogger and video artist. Jonna left the hustle and bustle of Gottenberg and moved to Grundtjärn, very north of Stockholm in 2010 with little money and no job. The first winter was the hardest, however, it was here that she found her passion, her husband and the best life she could have imagined for herself. I requested an interview with Jonna but her handlers said that Jonna will not do an interview. I have created this podcast to share with you, just another reason why people travel. Jonna Jinton links.YoutubePintrestInstagramFacebookJonnaJintonSwedenAbout the AuthorRandall McKeown

In this bonus edition, I talk about the need for a Carnet de Passages en Douane while travelling in a vehicle from country to country. I have been following many adventure motorcycle riders such as Itchy Boots, Girl on a Bike and On Her Bike just to name a few. I have also previously interviewed Tiffany Coates and Elspeth Beard who encountered the Carnet on their travels.  For more information check the following website.Carnet de PassagesIf you have a story to tell and would like to be on this show, reach out through www.podvault.ca

It is hard to believe that here we are just released episode 78.  I have had over 50 different guests and we are not done yet. As countries start to list travel restrictions, and people once again travel, we have learned that more and more people are looking for experiences. We review the reason why people may travel and we encourage you the listener, that if you have a travel story, a destination or resort that you would like to share, please feel free to reach out to me. Podvault.caEmail: randall.mckeown@podvault.ca

I sit down and speak with Dawn Miller, Speaker, Trainer and Coach. Our conversation takes us on a journey on why and how people travel.  Dawn's deep appreciation for the Caribbeans and  Caribbean music has taken her on many journeys and most if not all have been as a solo traveller. We talk about travelling on a budget and not staying at 5-star resorts but immersing oneself with the locals by staying at guest houses or sharing space with like-minded travellers by staying in hostels. Dawn tells how hosts at the guesthouse have gone out of their way to show her the sites and even take her to the airport. Dawn speaks highly of St. Lucia and the Dominican Republic as some of her favourite Caribbean destinations. To connect with Dawn, you can check out the following links.FacebookInstagramLinkedInTwitterLinktreeAbout the hostPodvault

Join me in conversation with Katara Sky,  Medicine Woman. Imagine working in an industry where you could travel at the drop of a hat. Being a Chartered Accountant, Kat was able to travel on a whim. Kat has travelled to some 65 countries. Kat and I discuss the importance of having a proper VISA when entering a foreign country and ensuring you have enough blank pages in your passport. We are bound by borders but that should not be the case, we are one people in one world and we should be able to travel freely. If we can't do it physically, we can do it spiritually.Kat has gone from exploring the world to inner exploration and finding and healing herself. Kat has positioned herself to help you make that inner journey. Find your purpose. You can find more about Kat through the links belowLinkedinFacebookWebsiteInstagramLinktr.ee

Join me in conversation as I welcome Elspeth Beard, an award-winning architect. Elspeth has many amazing architectural accomplishments under her belt, however, the one that I love the most is the Munstead Water Tower that was built in 1898.  Elspeth purchased through auction in 1989 and fought local council and won on appeal to be able to build her dream home. It did take 7 years to build. Elspeth learned at a young age that as long as there is a will there is a way. Midway through her studies to become an Architect, Elspeth began an epic journey on a 1974 BMW R60/6  that already had 45000 miles on it and rode this bike around the world.  On her journey, Elspeth found herself and regained an interest in Architecture from all the wonderful buildings she had seen on her journey. When Elspeth started on her journey, no one seemed interested, many did not think she could do it, said she would be back in a few months.  Elspeth pushed on and completed the trip around the world and was a little disheartened when she returned and found that her family and her friends were not interested in her story. It wasn't until 35 years later that a friend shared her story with BMW and they published it on their international webpage with a photo and we can say that the rest is history. Elspeth is now credited with being one of the first British women to ride a motorcycle around the world. Today everyone wants to hear Elspeth's story. Although as she said to me, Architecture has been my life for over 30 years where my epic journey was just under two years.Be sure to pick up Elspeth's Book, available through her website or Amazon.  Find out more about ElspethWebsite: Elspeth BeardFacebook: Elspeth BeardInstagram: Elspeth BeardArchitect: Elspeth BeardAbout the HostRandall McKeownwww.podvault.ca

Imagine riding solo around the world on a BMW R80gs. Some might think the task too daunting but not my special guest today. Tiffany Coates is a renowned adventure rider who has travelled several hundred thousand miles and much of this with her partner "Thelma".In this show, we talk about the bike and after all those thousands upon thousands of miles how well one gets to know their motorcycle inside and out.  Tiffany tells us about how she sold her hair to buy tools for the motorcycle, so in fact, Tiffany sold all her belongings including her hair. Tiffany is well soft after expert in adventure riding, so much so, that she was found by a headhunter who represented an organization that wanted Tiffany to lead adventure guide on two wheels. Tiffany first said no, she liked being free and independent, but soon changed her mind and took on the challenge. On the podcast, we talk about taking a group of women through the Himalayas and this is where we grab the name for this podcast. Where you can connect with TiffanyWebsite: TiffanyTravelsFacebook: Tiffany CoatesFeature: Mad or NomadTwitter: TiffanysTravelsInstagram:  TiffanysMotorcycleTravelsTo learn more about the HostPodvault Canada

 I would like to welcome to the show today, Mariel Fry.  Mariel is  the founder and host of Travel Experiences Reimagined, where she elevates and shares stories of people who host experiences from all over the world.Mariel has travelled to 10 plus countries and has joined many tours and excursions. Mariel now invites tour guides, host anyone who hosts experiences to her podcasts to share unique insights with curious travellers and adventure seekers. Welcome to the show, Mariel, how are you today?Thank you so much, Randall and I am well.How are you doing today? Just, great I just got my flu shot. I'm good. I'm ready to travel. Just get me on a silver bird right away.  I would actually like to let you know that, if I had the money, I'd probably have the time, but if I had the money, I would like to just travel the world like around the world. So maybe stop in a few destinations as I know the plane has to refuel.Sounds amazing. Tell our listeners a little bit about yourself and what you're currently doing.Sure. So again, as you did a wonderful introduction, my name is Mariel.I'm the founder and host of travel experiences. Re-imagined and for me, travel has always been a part of my life. I feel it's a core and an essence of who I am, as travel is a beautiful thing. I caught the travel bug quite early, and once you catch the travel bug, it just, you don't stop. Right. You just want to travel everywhere.And so for me, This is my passion. And I want to showcase these tour guides and these hosts, because what they're doing is incredible. Right. You're changing your perspective of a city because I know I've been to some cities in the past where I've thought. It's okay. And it's because it's been okay because of the tourism excursions I've been on, but vice versa to that, I've done incredible tours and excursions and countries that maybe I wouldn't have been so sure about, but I've had my mind changed because of those people, introducing me to all these different things.So travel is a beautiful thing and travel is what you make of it. So it kind of led from that curiosity to want to start travel experiences. Re-imagined. And I'm looking forward to hearing those episodes. I did listen to your podcast.  The introduction and sounds amazing. I'm looking forward to more shows.Yeah, the goal is to launch. I'm not sure when this is going to come out, but the goal is to launch mid November. So by the time people are listening to this, I hope to have some episodes, uh, up on my podcast. It would be wonderful. Now you talk about. One time just being in the city, being on a tour and really not getting really anything out of it.To find out more about Mariel, check out the social links belowFacebook: travelexperiencesreimaginedTwitter:  tereimaginedInstagram: travelexperiencesreimaginedMore about the hostWebsite Podvault.ca

Join me in conversation with Callie Rich Neal, better know as JoJo Dancer as we discuss where her love of dance, language and people have taken her. Callie is an accepted member of the Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching and will be travelling to Columbia to study the methods that Columbian teachers use when teaching dance. Callie travels with her two boys most of the time and two trips a year can be exhausting on them, however, Callie recognizes the value of her boys being out of their comfort zone at times. Callie's eldest son is focused on his studies and won't join her on her trip to Columbia. Three months will pass and Callie will be home. Callie and I have talked about reconnecting once she is set up in Columbia to give us a progress report. When we travel, we have many reasons to travel. We really don't need any, however, this opportunity that Callie has earned is one that can't be ignored.Contact Callie Rich Neal (JoJo Dancer)YoutubeFacebookTwitterContact the HostRandall McKeown

Join me in conversation with Rachel Smets. Rachel comes to us from the mountains of France where internet reception is iffy at the best of times. Rachel wanted to tell her story and join me as we talk about travel. Rachel has travelled the world and continues to travel.As a Clarity Coach, TEDx Speaker, Author and YouTuber, Rachel has positioned herself in such a way that she can get her message to the masses. Rachel lives life on her own terms.Come listen as Rachel talks about people's fears when it comes to travel and how to overcome them. Contact RachelWebsiteTwitterFacebookContact the HostRandall McKeown