Hear about cruising the islands of Melanesia (Papua New Guinea, The Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu) as the Amateur Traveler talks to Sherry Ott from OttsWorld.com about an unusual expedition cruise.
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AT#829 - Cruise the Islands of Melanesia

Since 2005 Amateur Traveler has been talking about a different destination every week. It covers destinations all of the world with an emphasis on culturally rich travel. Learn more about your world. Amateur Traveler won its creator Chris Christensen a Travel+Leisure award as the "best independent travel journalist".

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Hear about travel to Oklahoma as the Amateur Traveler talks to Caitlin from TwinFamilyTravels.com about her home state and its history, culture, and scenic beauty.
Why should you go to Oklahoma?
Caitlin says, "People should visit Oklahoma because it has a unique history and it has a lot of natural beauty. I think it's surprising and unexpected to a lot of people. It has a complicated history in many ways. We'll get into that. But it has seen a lot of revitalization and improvement over the years. There's really been an increase of top-notch museums, and outdoor spaces, and there's really just something for everybody to enjoy here."
Caitlin's one-week itinerary for exploring Oklahoma, particularly centered around Tulsa, includes a variety of cultural, historical, and outdoor activities. Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary she recommends:
Day 1: Downtown Tulsa

Start with breakfast at Dilly Diner.

Visit the Center of the Universe, an acoustic anomaly.

Explore the Woody Guthrie Center, dedicated to the famous musician.

Check out the Bob Dylan Center, showcasing Dylan’s life and work.

Tour the Church Studio, known for its musical history.

Learn about the history of the Greenwood District, including a visit to the Greenwood Rising Museum.

Dinner at Fixin's Soul Kitchen.


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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-oklahoma/
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AT#894 - Travel to Oklahoma

Hear about travel to Newfoundland and Labrador as the Amateur Traveler talks to Bri Mitchell from travelingmitch.com based on the summer they spent in this less visited Canadian province.
Why should you go to Newfoundland and Labrador?
Bri says, "It is a very vast, wide, and open province. It has extremely warm people very enticing outdoor adventures really incredible opportunities to get out onto the water and explore different parts of the Atlantic Ocean. And specifically today, I want to talk a little bit about Western Newfoundland and Labrador, so starting in the western coast and making your way up towards Labrador."
"It's larger than many countries. I think I was looking up It's a square kilometer area, and it's larger than Japan, Germany, and Finland. A lot of people think of Eastern Canada as being small and little towns and not a lot to explore. But when you think about its size, Newfoundland and Labrador as a province is very expansive. So it's a great place to go if you enjoy a road trip if you enjoy taking in nature. Many kilometers in a day, which this trip will entail and it's just a really wonderful place to get outside and really embrace nature."
Bri recommends a comprehensive seven-day itinerary for exploring Newfoundland and Labrador, focusing primarily on Western Newfoundland and briefly touching upon Labrador. Here's the itinerary she suggests:

Day 1: Arrival at Deer Lake

Fly into Deer Lake Regional Airport, rent a car, and drive to Gros Morne National Park.

Stay in Woody Point, a small town in Gros Morne, and dine at local restaurants like the Backroom Cafe or Merchant Warehouse.


https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-newfoundland-and-labrador/
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AT#893 - Travel to Newfoundland and Labrador

Hear about things to do when you travel to the Brittany region of France as the Amateur Traveler talks to Kristin Montgomery from GrowingGlobalCitizens.com about this less-touristed corner of the country.
Kristin says, “Brittany is located in northwestern France. It used to be a Duchy but in the 1500s it was incorporated as part of France, basically taken over against their will so there is still a very strong regional identity. There are some people who still identify as being Breton before they’re French. Brittany is a place that is not usually on a lot of traveler’s lists. If you are going to head to France you think of Paris. You think of southern France, Province, or Nice, but there are a lot of really great things to see in Brittany.”

“There are beautiful beaches first of all and they’re sand beaches unlike the rocky beaches you find down south. If you are traveling with family it is a great place to visit because it is a little less touristy, less crowded. There are more things to do that are in small towns out in the country. It has this Celtic identity that really is not found in any other place in France. You are going to be hearing things like bagpipes. You are going to be seeing traditional dancing, even some of the Breton language. I found that people here were very very friendly which is something that in other parts of France, and I think of Paris, they don’t have a reputation for being very friendly. If you are someone who is into history or likes myths and legends, Brittany has a lot of that too.”
...
https://amateurtraveler.com/things-to-do-in-brittany-france/
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AT#713 - Travel to Brittany France (Repeat)

Hear about travel to Central Portugal as the Amateur Traveler talks to Stephanie Lambert from eurotravelsbydesign.com about this too often overlooked region.

Why should you go to Central Portugal?

Stephanie says, "It's safe, it's beautiful, it's a culturally rich history. I feel like it's been underrated for some years. It's getting more popular now, but it's been overshadowed by Spain for a while, and I think, it deserves just as much love. It has gorgeous architecture, Fascinating history, breathtaking landscapes, warm and inviting people. I think the pastéis de nata are a reason to go, enough on their own. They're so delicious."

Based on Stephanie's detailed and passionate recount of her family's journey through Central Portugal, here's a suggested itinerary to explore this enchanting region, drawing from the highlights and personal experiences she shared:

Day 1-4: Coimbra
Day 1: Explore Coimbra
Start with a visit to the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its Baroque library and the unique presence of bats that protect the books.
Don't miss the São Miguel Chapel within the university, adorned with blue and white tiles and gold leaf.
Spend some time at the Botanical Gardens for a peaceful retreat.
...
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-central-portugal/
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AT#892 - Travel to Central Portugal

Hear about travel to Mexico City as the Amateur Traveler talks to Ashlea Russell from SheRoamsAbout.com about the unique and vibrant capital of Mexico.
Why should you go to Mexico City?
Ashlea says, "I think Mexico City is It's a very unique city people always say there's so much to do, there's so much architecture, and history, but what I think is interesting about it is, and what people don't expect, is that it's a fusion between the European opulence that you would get in cities like Paris and London, with all of the culture and flavor that comes with Latin America. There is so much to do and see, and there really is something for everyone."
Ashlea recommends a unique itinerary for visiting Mexico City, focusing on experiences off the beaten path. She highlights a combination of lesser-known attractions and cultural experiences that showcase the city's rich history, vibrant food scene, and architectural marvels. Key recommendations include:
Market Tour, Food Tasting, and Cooking Class: Ashlea suggests starting with a tour that offers an immersive experience of Mexico City's local markets. This isn't just any market tour; it includes food tastings and a cooking class, providing a deep dive into the local cuisine and shopping culture. The tour begins near the Zocalo, leading to the Mercado Abelardo L. Rodriguez, a market known for its murals and unique history.
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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-mexico-city-mexico/
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AT#829 - Cruise the Islands of Melanesia

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