Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Can you tell me more about PEI's history?

PEI is one of Canada's Maritime provinces, known for red beaches, seafood, small towns, farms, coastal roads, and, of course, Anne of Green Gables.

Prince Edward Island (PEI) was originally Mi'kmaq territory known as Epekwitk ("cradled on the waves"). French colonists settled it in the 1720s as Île Saint-Jean, but the British deported them in 1758. Later named "St. John Island," the colony was renamed PEI in 1799. It joined Canada as the seventh province in 1873.

• The World's Bluefin Tuna Capital: PEI is world-renowned for its massive bluefin tuna. Anglers flock to the island's coastal waters, where catching tuna weighing well over $500 lbs is common during the season.

• Tourism Prince Edward Island

• NoOcean Escape: PEI is 137 miles long and varies from about 4 to 40 miles wide. Because of its unique shape, no point on the island is more than 10 miles from the sea.

• The red soil gets its striking color from a high concentration of iron oxide (hematite) in the sandstone bedrock, which essentially rusted over millions of years.

60-second confidence challenge

Your challenge today: Confidence Challenge PEI

If you like today's Confidence Challenge, my book series goes deeper into island lifestyles and walks you through 5 steps to solo travel, from easy to more challenging, with foreign-language communication tips and ways to make it more fun. For solo travel in areas like PEI, you can find the series at the link in the description.

See my book series, Part C, for how to address this concern.

Find it on the website​​ at https://www.5stepstosolotravel.com/ or on Amazon. It's a several-part series.

Today's destination is Prince Edward Island, usually called PEI.

I visited PEI near the end of my second long solo journey around the world. At that point, I had just under two weeks left in my adventure.

By then, I had started losing things, too.

I lost my hat after swimming at the beach on Saturday. Then I lost my glasses. Fortunately, I had packed a spare pair, so I could still see where I was going. This is one reason I always recommend bringing backups of the small things that can become very important when you travel.

https://www.tourismpei.com/

https://www.tourismpei.com/askanislander/questions/which-is-better-to-go-to-pei-this-summer-via-the-confederation-bridge-or#:~:text=The%20Confederation%20Bridge%20rates%20are,when%20departing%20on%20the%20ferry).

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In this episode, your FAQ is: Safety in India for solo travelers.

Today's Destination is: Best of Delhi, India. Part 2 of 2

Today's Misstep: Cellphone issues that were my fault and more

Travel Advice: Safety tips for travel in Delhi.

Today's destination: Delhi, India Part 2

One of the best parts of India…and Aero City

Today's Misstep: Cellphone issues:

This is when I figured out my Airalo cellphone issues. Why my WhatsApp was not working! India is not in the Asia plan! That was my fail!

I didn't have internet service when I was out of Wi-Fi coverage in India.

Something with the eSIM/Airalo plan, which wasn't covered under "All Asia." I need to tell them to label that better. If you want to sign up for the plan I have used worldwide, get $3.00 off with code MARY2856.

Today's Travel Advice- Delhi Safety Tips

• Dress Conservatively: Especially in urban villages and when visiting religious sites.

• Avoid Crowded Areas at Night: Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and avoid walking alone at night.

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings and watch out for pickpockets and scams.

• Use Trusted Transportation: Prefer pre-paid taxis, Uber, or Ola, and avoid accepting rides from unknown drivers.

• Act Confident: Walk with confidence and firmly decline any unwanted attention or offers

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In this episode, the FAQ is: My listeners ask: How do I check for the weather where I'm going?

Today's Destination is: Delhi, India

Today's Misstep- Stuck in India and missed the bus

Travel Advice: Ask a group of people for directions

FAQ: You asked me how to get the most reliable weather forecast:

Here's how: Use apps like AccuWeather, weather.com, Windy, or local services, with hourly and long-range forecasts, radar maps, and severe weather alerts.

For more local alerts, sign up for location-based apps on Google Weather or MyRadar.

Look for known seasonal patterns. Goa, India has monsoons from June to September.

Wind and rain forecasts like Windy.com will show wind and wave conditions, especially to help with beach plans.

Wind and Rain Forecasts: Coastal areas are affected by both rain and wind speed. Windy.com offers detailed wind and wave conditions, which can help with beach plans.

Check for Cyclone Warnings: Especially in coastal India, monitor IMD's cyclone warnings as they provide updates on tropical storms that may affect Goa. Lastly, social media can help; use WhatsApp groups for firsthand info from locals.

Today's destination: Best of Delhi, India Part 1 of two

My visit to Delhi, or New Delhi, India

Which is it?

New Delhi when referring to the specific district that serves as India's capital. New Delhi is a planned city developed during British rule and officially designated as the capital in 1931.

Delhi refers to the larger metropolitan area, including New Delhi and other historical and residential areas like Old Delhi, which includes the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. When speaking broadly about the city and its culture, Delhi is the correct term, so we will use that one here.

After two weeks in India and visits to 4 southern cities, I flew north to Delhi from Goa, barely missing the seasonal monsoons, and had a Female co-pilot who said hello with a big smile. Seeing a woman pilot made me happy.

The flight attendants checked my boarding tickets. Again, getting off the plane! That was a first. Who checks them when getting off the plane?

Should I take a Bus, train, or taxi to Agra? I still could not decide even after arriving. I was overwhelmed with the decisions, but knew I had to get there.

A taxi is at least 6000 each way. Maybe more. It sounded like a lot, but it was only $72. USD.

Bus or train may be best.

However, the temperature is 💯 degrees, so think about heat stroke and how that will affect you.

Today's Misstep: Stuck in India and missed the bus

Traffic on the way to the Agra bus stop stopped that Monday morning. I had to get out of the car and walk to the station. But it wasn't a station; it was near an underpass, in a busy part of town, and the bus was hidden behind a bunch of trucks and left without me early. The family that was hosting me in Agra was so kind. They chased down the bus for me, and I was able to get aboard! That was hairy.

Leave much earlier than you think you need to when in India.

Yes, I made many mistakes, but you don't have to!

Today's Travel Advice: Ask a group of people for directions

Don't be afraid to ask for directions if you're not certain. Make eye contact with one who may be in a group, then ask for help. If they can't help you, someone else in the group might. Don't be shy if you are not sure.

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This is a Special Episode on AARP travel:

What is AARP's Membership Age? While AARP is dedicated to people over 50, there is no minimum age to join. People of all ages can get an AARP membership for as low as $15 per year with auto-renewal. Anyone can become an AARP member and access hundreds of discounts, programs, and resources.

My brother joined when he was 40. You can join at any age. They have a promo now if you purchase 5 years of membership. That sounds like a good offer if you plan to travel soon.

Today's Special Edition is updated from an earlier one in 2029 on AARP Travel

I've been an AARP member, which stands for American Association of Retired Persons.

I'm on their mailing lists and get a lot of travel information from them. Some years I join and others I don't.

They make travel worry-free with tested partners.

I recently got a magazine from one of their vendors, Grand European Travel, or GET tours. This vendor offers tours on every continent, with discounts if you book early for summer travel. I like to look at these brochures, dream about travel, and picture the places I'll visit. Good photography is their high standard. They also claim to be eco-friendly. Each of these tours is with a trained guide.

https://www.aarp.org/travel/

AARP doesn't protect Social Security and Medicare. It prevents any serious discussion of meaningfully reforming these programs, which are in great danger of becoming insolvent. With nearly 38 million members, AARP is one of the most powerful lobbying organizations in Washington. AARP members can receive discounts at Walgreens, RiteAid, Kohl's, Goodwill, UPS, and TJ Maxx..AARP is a massive organization with around 38 million members in the United States. Because of its stature, AARP can partner with big companies and offer members discounts, benefits, resources, advice, and more.

You can get discounts for restaurants and more.

Investing in an AARP membership can offer financial benefits that help you manage your money and plan for retirement. Some benefits of an AARP membership include money management links and worksheets and a Social Security benefits calculator. This calculator helps individuals determine when they can expect to start receiving Social Security benefits. The AARP also provides identity theft protection services, which is very important.

Today's Mistake-Being frazzled in the airport.

I was hot, tired, and hungry in an airport recently. I wanted to purchase a water bottle. It was $5 bucks. I can't drink water in Mexico unless it's been treated, or I will get sick. I was thinking about that as I packed up my wallet to leave. But I almost left the water behind on the counter. That's careless behavior. The cashier called after me, "You forgot your water." Of course I thanked her. That was kind.

Today's Travel Advice- Room service is overrated.

Instead of ordering room service, many hotels let you order food from around town. Hyatt has a pilot program for snack delivery with the GoPuthe ff app to,ddeliveringpackaged and hot meals to rooms in sate of theiies. So far it's going well, they say. See the show notes for the link—thousands of items delivered fast for as little as a $3 fee. Think about ice cream, cookies, or yogurt delivery.

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Today's destination: Banff, Canada

Banff was on my bucket list for a long time. It may be on yours, too.

You can get here by train, plane, or automobile.

You'll see the pure beauty of Canada's outdoors, even if it's rainy for part of the day. It's scenic and green because it rains a lot here. The drive from Calgary to Banff is beautiful and it's about 90 miles.

https://www.banfflakelouise.com/

https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/attractions/banff-gondola/

https://destinationlesstravel.com/calgary-to-banff/

Dr Travelbest: I drove to Banff, Canada, from Waterton, Canada, after eating at the Prince of Wales Restaurant near the US/Canada border.

I had been in Glacier National Park and went to the Canadian side to explore further. I liked the feel of the town of Banff immediately. It's a European-like city. I took a strenuous hike to the top of the Sulfur Mountain Trail. 5.5 km, 655 m elevation gain (2.5-3 hours), and saw stunning views of the Bow (rhymes with throw) Valley. Follow a short trail up to the historic Cosmic Ray Station. A 4-person gondola also takes you to the top of Sulfur Mountain in 8 minutes for a bird's-eye view of six incredible mountain ranges.

Whether you walk or take the gondola, stroll along the ridgetop boardwalk where the views get better with every step. Outside is a 360-degree rooftop observation deck and inside a multi-sensory theatre with interactive exhibits, plus restaurants.

That Jacuzzi at the bottom of the mountain felt great after my hike. Banff is known for its hot springs. Take one or more.

Banff Springs Hotel (Fairmont) had a convention center and the best tea/coffee ever. Then I drove to Lake Louise Chateau (Fairmont) and had one of the best buffet breakfasts ever. Five-star quality and a high price to match, but I ate there for the day.

The weather was pouring rain, then sunny skies within an hour, and the beauty showed in the reflective turquoise water. Nearby is the grand Ice Fields Highway. 3-5 hours to a full-day drive, depending on how often you stop. If you don't have a car, you can book tours. You'll see Bow (Throw) Falls and Moraine Lake. I kept driving up to Jasper, so that may be on your list as well.

Do see the Icefields Parkway.

Don't get close to a moose.

Lesson learned- I rented a hotel room in Alaska without A/C

Most days in Alaska are cold. I've visited twice, and both times were in July. If you are going to Alaska in the summer, check whether they have air conditioning.

I timed it to the hot days and there was no A/C to cool off. You may find a fan as I eventually did. Expect extreme temperatures in Alaska. Learn that lesson here.

Today's Travel Advice-Stoke your wanderlust

If you are thinking of a trip you want to take, start a list of things you know about that country. Do you know anyone who's been there? Do you know anyone else who may know about the region? Visit your local library, bookstore, and online search engine to find out more and satisfy your curiosity. Keep that list growing. It will soon become your travel bucket list.

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Best of Cabrillo National Monument Accessibility

You loved it the first time, so here is the updated Best Of Version.

This photo is with my friend Nancy Kramer on her recent visit to the park.

In this episode, the FAQ: How do I best enjoy the park?

Today's Destination is Cabrillo National Monument Accessibility. Before you forget, please leave a review!!!!!

Today's Misstep: Don't forget to stretch, as I did.

Travel Advice: Swimming? Watch your valuables.

FAQ: My friends ask me how I enjoy Cabrillo Park.

I love this question.

First, you have to plan for it, so bring your National Park Pass and try to visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday, the slow days. Park at the top and see the Lighthouse. It's iconic. Then visit the overlook for views of San Diego and watch the boats come in and out of the channel.

The visitor center is worth seeing, even if you don't buy anything. Then hike the bayside trail if you can; if not, follow the accessibility guidance below.

Today's destination: Best of Cabrillo National Monument Accessibility

Last episode was about the trails and the tide pools, plus what you can do there. This is a follow-up for those who have limited access but want to enjoy the park,

You can, because it's built for everyone.

Cabrillo National Monument is highly accessible for people with disabilities, with a range of features and services to ensure an enjoyable, inclusive experience. Here are some key aspects of its accessibility:

• The monument has paved walkways, restrooms, water fountains, and seating areas that are accessible to visitors with mobility concerns.

• Designated accessible parking areas include spots near the Lighthouse, which you can request at the gate.

• Wheelchairs are available for use to help visitors navigate the park. If you ask for a pass, you can drive to the Lighthouse at the entrance to the visitor center, so you won't have to walk.

• For visitors with vision loss, the park offers tactile models, audio-described films, tactile maps, and audio wayside signs. Braille users can utilize tactile maps and guides with a talking pen.

• Services include ASL interpreters, signing rangers, open-captioned films, assistive listening devices, and one-way portable microphones.

• The park provides quiet areas, sensory-friendly options, and clear signage to make the visit more pleasant and stress-free for visitors with cognitive concerns.

• The park welcomes service animals, with specific accommodations and facilities to ensure a safe environment for both the visitor and their companion. Unfortunately, regular pets are not welcome here.

• The National Park Access Pass, which is free for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a disability, grants free entry into the park and can be obtained at the fee station.

• The park has been rated highly for its accessibility, with paved paths, accessible trails, and well-marked signage. It is designed to be fully accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural, historical, and cultural aspects of the monument.

Today's Misstep: I forgot to stretch.

I ended up with a very sore back on a big hike day. If I had stretched like I usually do, I would not have had this issue. Do the stretch first.

Today's Travel Advice: If you are going swimming, leave your valuables at the hotel.

Its not wise to bring your valuables to the beach and then go swimming. It's common sense, but so many people forget this or don't prepare. Just say no to leaving your stuff on the beach.

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You choose to travel, and you may choose to travel solo. If you do, bring Dr. Travelbest guidance along with you. Here is a guide to travel in Quito, Ecuador.

This video shares Dr. Travelbest's travels for Solo Females.

Find good tips and helpful planning guidance, including my mistakes.

Listen to the author share a few words about the latest book here. You'll soon be able to listen to the entire book. If you like this, you will love the rest of the book.

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