Special Edition: London, England Airports

 

In this episode, the FAQ is: What are some of the biggest changes for travel in 2025?

 

Today’s Destination is: London Airports

 

Today’s Misstep- Wearing the wrong shoes

 

Travel Advice: When buying an airline ticket, pause.

 

FAQ: What are some of the biggest changes for travel in 2025?

Expect more opportunities for local immersion, where you can experience the daily life of local communities through homestays, service projects, and interactive cultural programs for seniors. Solo female travel is on the rise, with women comprising 71% of solo travelers. Many travel companies now offer solo-friendly options, such as cruises without single supplements and women-only trips to destinations like Saudi Arabia, where my parents almost moved in 1980, when it was very different for women. Decision Fatigue

The solo traveler is solely responsible for all decisions, from choosing accommodations and dining spots to navigating routes. This can lead to decision fatigue and frustration and isolation in challenging situations.

Lack of Immediate Support

Solo travelers may not have immediate support in moments of illness or emergencies. Reliance on strangers for help can be daunting, and having communication devices like a satellite communicator is crucial1.

Cultural and Language Barriers

Solo female travelers may encounter cultural and language barriers, leading to uncomfortable situations. Respecting local traditions, dress codes, and learning basic phrases in the local language can help mitigate these challenges.

Loneliness

Solo travel can sometimes lead to feelings of loneliness. To combat this, travelers can seek social gatherings, connect with fellow travelers, or engage in group tours and activities.

Today’s Special Episode: London, England Airports

London’s major airports each have distinct features catering to different traveler needs. Here’s a rundown on each and some important aspects for solo female travelers over 50:

First, the Best Overall Recommendations for Solo Female Travelers Over 50

• Best for On-Time Flights: London City Airport (LCY)

• Best for Service: Heathrow Airport (LHR)

• Best for Pricing: Stansted (STN) or Luton (LTN)

• Best Overall Experience: Heathrow (LHR) (for amenities and comfort) or Gatwick (LGW) (for balance between cost and comfort)

1. Heathrow Airport (LHR)

• Location: West London, about 15 miles from Central London.

• Identity: The largest and busiest airport in the UK, known for long-haul international flights and a wide array of shopping and dining options.

• Pros: Excellent amenities, extensive shopping and dining, good transportation links (Heathrow Express, London Underground).

• Considerations: Can be crowded; peak times may involve long lines. Solo travelers might find comfort in its high-security standards and numerous on-site assistance points.

• Ratings:

• On-Time: Generally good but can experience delays due to high traffic.

• Service: Known for high service standards and amenities, including comfortable lounges.

• Pricing: Usually more expensive than other London airports.

• Overall Experience: Best for travelers looking for comfort and amenities, even if it means a higher price.

2. Gatwick Airport (LGW)

• Location: South of London, about 30 miles from Central London.

• Identity: Known for offering both international and low-cost European flights.

• Pros: Competitive pricing on flights, good amenities, easy rail access to Central London. I was bussed from Heathrow here and back for my Africa travels. That was a chance to see London, from the window, thanks to British Air.

• Considerations: Less busy than Heathrow, and offers options like the Gatwick Express, a fast train to Central London. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for convenience.

• Ratings:

• On-Time: Tends to have good punctuality compared to Heathrow.

• Service: Offers a range of services, though fewer luxury options than Heathrow.

• Pricing: Competitive, especially for European flights.

• Overall Experience: Suitable for those who value a balance of comfort and cost.

3. London City Airport (LCY)

• Location: East London, close to Canary Wharf and the city center.

• Identity: Compact and designed for business travelers, with quick access to London.

• Pros: Fast check-ins, less crowded, closest to Central London, and primarily caters to short-haul destinations.

• Considerations: Ideal for quick, efficient entry to London, though limited to short-haul flights. Its size can be comforting for solo travelers who want to avoid larger crowds.

• Ratings:

• On-Time: Known for high punctuality rates.

• Service: Tailored services for business and solo travelers, though limited amenities.

• Pricing: Higher, given its proximity and convenience.

• Overall Experience: Best for solo travelers who prioritize quick, stress-free entry and exit. I have not flown here yet.

4. Stansted Airport (STN)

• Location: North East of London, about 40 miles from Central London.

• Identity: A hub for budget airlines that is popular for European flights.

• Pros: Affordability, a variety of low-cost airlines, and straightforward access to London via train. I flew here from Milan for $20 as long as I had a personal item, not a carry-on. It was Ryan Air. I flew out a week later to Edinburgh, but that was a bit of a crazy crowded airport with people all over trying to wait until their flights. Yes, it was very crowded.

• Ratings:

• On-Time: Generally decent but can experience delays due to high traffic on budget flights.

• Service: Basic but sufficient; less luxurious than Heathrow or Gatwick.

• Pricing: Most competitive, particularly for European destinations.

• Overall Experience: Ideal for those seeking low-cost travel and are comfortable with basic amenities.

5. Luton Airport (LTN)

• Location: North of London, about 30 miles from Central London.

• Identity: Budget-friendly with numerous low-cost airlines.

• Pros: Good for low-cost European flights, straightforward access to London via trains.

• Considerations: It is generally busy, with fewer service amenities; it is best for budget-minded travelers who don’t mind fewer frills.

• Ratings:

• On-Time: Average, with some delays during peak times.

• Service: Basic but functional.

• Pricing: Low-cost options make it appealing for budget travelers.

• Overall Experience: Suitable for budget-conscious solo travelers willing to trade amenities for savings.

 

 Today’s Misstep: Wearing the wrong shoes 

Talk about the wrong step. I had the wrong shoes.

First, I had sandals with heels, and it was really cold, so I should have worn something warmer with socks. 

Then I got blisters because the sandals rubbed my foot.

Don’t wear stylish shoes just for looks when you should wear something more sensible and comfortable. Your feet are here for life, and anyone who judges your choice of footwear can pound sand. Let them.

Today’s Travel Advice- When buying an airline ticket, pause.

Today’s airline tickets are almost all self-serve. You may buy them infrequently, so you may not notice all of the changes that are happening when you buy a ticket.

Before you click the button, be sure you check everything.

Do you have the correct dates?

Are you ok with the luggage choices?

Did you spell your name correctly?

Is there a better price directly with the airline?

Is it refundable?

Do you need insurance or not?

Can you use your miles or credits instead of cash?

It’s becoming more challenging to purchase your ticket, so practice before you buy. You may save hundreds of dollars if you do.

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Delhi, India Part 2

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

Today’s Destination is: Delhi, India. Part 2

Today’s Misstep- Cellphone issues that were my fault and more

Travel Advice: Safety tips for travel in Delhi.

FAQ: Let’s talk about safety in India.

My friend Kathryn is going to Delhi and is worried about being a solo woman.

Can I talk to her about what she can expect?

The short answer is that Kathryn is already back home, and she had a great trip, but she was nervous and needed confirmation that all would be well.

Today’s destination: Delhi, India Part 2

One of the best parts of India…and Aero City

Let’s discuss a region of Delhi called Aero City. 

It’s really close, just minutes from the airport. Indira Gandhi International Airport, that is. It’s well connected to the rest of the city through the Airport Metro Line. And you can get to places in the center of Delhi, like Connaught Place, in about 25 minutes.

Aerocity is a top priority for safety and security for female travelers, with state-of-the-art cameras, staff, and surveillance. The hotels and surrounding public spaces are really nice.

Aero City was full of what’s new about India. There are hotels, shopping centers, and restaurants. I felt Safe being here.

I took the AirPort Express Metro to Aero City and walked for about 6 minutes in the 105-degree heat. Drenched in sweat, the pool was on my mind when I arrived! It made the walk bearable! There were girls and sisters in the pool, my new friends, ages 8 and 11. They were in the room next to me and on School holidays in Dehli—a break for the families and fun for me.

 Today’s Misstep: Cellphone issues: 

Here is when I discovered my cellphone issues with Airalo and why my WhatsApp was not working! India is not in the Asia plan! That was my failure!

I did not have internet service when out of Wi-Fi coverage in India. 

Something with the eSIM, Airalo plan, which was not 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 $3.0ff with the code MARY2856. 

Today’s Travel Advice- Dehli 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 be cautious of 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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Delhi, India Part 1 

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, and 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 seasonal patterns that are already known. Goa, India has monsoons from June to September.

Wind and rain forecasts like windy.com will tell you the wind and wave conditions, especially to help with beach plans.

Check for Cyclone Warnings in places like coastal India.

 

Answer: Reliable Weather Apps and Websites: For accurate forecasts, use apps like AccuWeather, Weather.com, Windy, or local Indian weather services (like IMD). Many offer hourly and long-range forecasts, radar maps, and severe weather alerts.

Localized Alerts: Sign up for location-based alerts on apps like Google Weather or MyRadar, which provide real-time weather updates for your location. This can be especially helpful for any sudden coastal storms or cyclones.

Seasonal Patterns: Since you’re going to Goa or nearby coastal regions, familiarize yourself with local weather patterns. For example, Goa experiences the monsoon season from June to September, with dry and sunny weather from October to March.

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 by using WhatsApp groups to get firsthand information from locals.

Today’s destination: Delhi, India Part 1

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, encompassing both New Delhi and other historical and residential parts like Old Delhi, which includes the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. Delhi is the correct term when speaking broadly about the city and its culture, so we will use that one here.

After two weeks in India, visiting four southern cities, I flew north to Dehli from Goa, barely missing the seasonal monsoons. My flight had a Female co-pilot who Said hello to me with a big smile, which made me happy to see a woman pilot there.

 

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

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

A taxi costs at least $6000 rupees each way, maybe more. Although this sounded like a lot, 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 me. 

Here are a few places that I would recommend in Dehli to visit over 3 days: Historic on Day 1 in Old Dehli; Day 2, consider Heritage and Spiritual; and Day 3, Museums, art and gardens

 

Day 1: Red Fort

•  UNESCO World Heritage site, a symbol of Mughal (Moogal) power.

• Cost: about $6.00 for foreigners

• Time: 2-3 hours.

• Travel: 30 mins from central Delhi by metro or taxi.

Jama Masjid

• India’s largest mosque, rich in Mughal architecture.

• Cost: Free, nominal fee for photography.

• Time: 1-2 hours.

• Travel: Walking distance from Red Fort.

Chandni Chowk

• Historic market with traditional Indian shops and street food.

• Cost: Free; budget around 500-800 INR for food and shopping.

• Time: 2 hours.

• Travel: Walking distance from Jama Masjid.

Day 2

Qutub Minar

• UNESCO World Heritage site, India’s tallest minaret.

• Cost: 600 INR for foreigners. or $7.00

• Time: 1.5 hours.

• Travel: 30-45 mins from central Delhi by taxi or metro.

Lotus Temple

• Iconic Baháʼí House of Worship, open to all religions.

• Cost: Free.

• Time: 1 hour.

• Travel: 20 mins from Qutub Minar by taxi or metro.

India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan

• War memorial and President’s House, as well as significant colonial architecture.

• Cost: Free.

• Time: 1-2 hours for a stroll.

• Travel: 20-30 mins from Lotus Temple by taxi.

Day 3 

1. National Museum

   • India’s largest museum, showcasing ancient artifacts.

   • Cost: 650 INR for foreigners.

   • Time: 2 hours.

   • Travel: 20 mins from central Delhi by taxi.

2. Humayun’s Tomb

   • UNESCO site, inspiration for the Taj Mahal.

   • Cost: 600 INR for foreigners.

   • Time: 1.5 hours.

   • Travel: 15 mins from the National Museum.

3. Lodhi Gardens

   • Tranquil gardens with Mughal tombs.

   • Cost: Free.

   • Time: 1-2 hours.

   • Travel: 10 mins from Humayun’s Tomb.

 

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

 

The traffic on the way to the Agra bus stop was halted that Monday morning. It meant I had to leave the car and walk to the station. Only it was not 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 board! 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, maybe someone in the group can. Don’t be shy if you are not sure.

 

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Phu Quok, Vietnam

 In this episode, the FAQ is: What’s the best water bottle for travel?

Today’s Destination is: Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Today’s Misstep- I Booked a room under construction

and How I upgraded.

Travel Advice: Take a small risk, not always a big one in Vietnam

FAQ: What’s the best water bottle for travel?

The top 10 water bottles for a solo senior female traveler will be on this list, including price, from the least to most expensive in the show notes. They range from $11 to $90.

Vapur Anti-Bottle Collapsible Water Bottle - $11–$14

Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle - $12–$15

CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle - $14–$18

Brita Premium Filtering Water Bottle - $19–$25

Collapsible Nomader Water Bottle - $25–$30

Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle - $32–$45

S'well Stainless Steel Water Bottle - $35–$45

Klean Kanteen Insulated Classic Water Bottle - $30–$40

LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle - $39.95

GRAYL Geopress Purifier - $89.95

Top rated 3 are:

1. Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle

• Features: Double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours. Available in multiple sizes.

• Concerns: Bulkier due to insulation and slightly heavier.

1. LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle

Features: Comes with a built-in two-stage water filter, which filters out bacteria and parasites, ideal for travel in areas with questionable water quality.

• Concerns: Filtering process takes some effort, and it’s only suitable for freshwater sources.

1. GRAYL Geopress Purifier

• Features: Purifies water by removing viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. Great for international travel where tap water might be unsafe.

• Concerns: Pricey, and filtering requires pushing the water through, which can be tiring.

Not on the top list, but I use a BEAM. It makes a well-regarded water bottle called the BEAM Self-Cleaning UV Water Bottle. 

Price: Around $50–$70, depending on size and retailer.

• Features: This bottle is equipped with a UV-C light in the cap, which self-cleans and purifies the water by neutralizing bacteria and viruses. This makes it excellent for international travel or areas where water quality might be uncertain. It also keeps water cold for 24 hours and hot for 12 hours.

• Concerns: It requires charging for the UV feature, so you’ll need access to power, and it’s a bit pricier than standard bottles.

The BEAM bottle is great if you prefer a high-tech solution for water purification and want to reduce odors and bacteria without a filter. If this sounds ideal, it could be a great choice for you as a solo traveler. I am not compensated for this product but I use it.

https://www.amazon.com/UVBrite-Beam-Self-Cleaning-Water-Bottle/dp/B09RQSHV36?th=1

Today’s destination: Phu Quoc, Vietnam

When I arrived, I felt like I had landed in Hawaii. First, I’ll tell you why to visit and then about my trip here. It’s a tropical paradise in Vietnam.

Why Phu Quoc is recommended for a Solo Traveler in their Prime:

https://vietnam.travel/places-to-go/southern-vietnam/phu-quoc

• Safety and Hospitality: Phu Quoc is safe and welcoming, with friendly locals accustomed to tourists. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

• Relaxed Atmosphere: It’s more peaceful than other beach destinations in Vietnam, and it is ideal for relaxation.

• Easy Navigation: The island is small, and it’s easy to get around by taxis, organized tours, or with a private driver.

• Well-Developed Amenities: Phu Quoc has a variety of resorts, hotels, and spas that cater to international travelers, offering comfortable facilities and excellent service.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam, is a beautiful, laid-back island destination that offers serene beaches, cultural sites, and relaxing experiences ideal for senior solo travelers. Here’s a list of the main attractions and reasons why Phu Quoc is worth visiting. 

The beaches include Long Beach, which has calm, golden sand and clear waters that are perfect for gentle strolls on the shore. There are many resorts, restaurants, and cafes. Sunsets are stunning. Find a beachfront restaurant and enjoy your visit. Also, Sao Beach is similar, but with white sand, turquoise waters, and a great place to read a book and relax.

On my next visit here, I’ll see these attractions: 

2. Duong Dong or  Dinh Cau Night Markets

• This bustling night market is perfect for sampling local seafood and Vietnamese street food, shopping for souvenirs, and immersing yourself in local life. Local  food specialties include grilled scallops or fresh tropical fruit. It’s a safe, lively place to explore in the evening.

3. Phu Quoc National Park

• This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a beautiful escape into nature. Its trails are suitable for all fitness levels and feature tropical plants and wildlife.

• Consider joining a tour if you prefer exploring with others; \

1.  Vinpearl Safari

• This is Vietnam’s largest wildlife park, home to a range of animals worldwide. It’s well-maintained and offers a safe, comfortable way to see animals in spacious enclosures.

• Tip: Ideal for a half-day visit, with shuttle buses from most hotels.

5. Ho Quoc Pagoda

• A Buddhist pagoda with ocean views is located on a hilltop. It’s peaceful and an excellent place for a quiet moment of reflection.

• Tip: Morning visits are lovely, with cooler temperatures and fewer people.

6. Fish Sauce Factories and Pepper farms

• Phu Quoc is famous for its fish sauce, which is used throughout Vietnam. Visiting a fish sauce factory offers an interesting glimpse into this traditional process. The town is also known for its Pepper Farms.

7. Phu Quoc Cable Car

• This record-breaking cable car ride connects An Thoi and Hon Thom Island, offering spectacular aerial views of the coastline and nearby islands.

• This is a great way to see the islands from above, and Hon Thom has quiet beaches for a relaxed visit after the cable car ride.

https://theculturetrip.com/asia/vietnam/articles/guide-mekong-delta-vietnam

 Today’s Misstep: Booked a hotel room under construction

Today’s Travel Advice- Take a small risk

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Today’s Destination is: Edinburgh, Scotland

 

Today’s Misstep- Too much of a good thing

 

Travel Advice: Eat early, rest early

 

FAQ: How do I remember to stretch while on the road?

 

Answer: Tips for Remembering to Stretch:

1. Set Phone Reminders: Schedule gentle reminders on your phone for morning and evening stretches. This way, it’s a built-in routine, just like brushing your teeth.

2. Tie it to Daily Activities: Stretch after sitting for long periods, like after a meal or a bus/train ride. This helps to break up stiffness and becomes part of your rhythm.

3. Use Cues in Your Environment: Place visual cues like a stretchy band or even a scarf in plain sight to remind you to stretch or exercise.

4. Wind Down with Evening Stretches: A simple stretching routine before bed helps with relaxation and keeps you consistent.

 

Today’s destination: Edinburgh, Scotland,

It’s got to be one of the favorite places in Europe for great walkable cities. There are hills, though, which can be challenging.

I was there in July, right before the Fringe Festival, which is in August. This is a very busy time for tourists, and they say the city gets clogged up.

To maximize my visit, I chose the hop-on, hop-off tour bus, which allowed me to take three different routes for 24 hours, so I spread it over two days.

Edinburgh is safe for solo travelers, but as with any city, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Edinburgh weather can change rapidly. Dress in layers, and carry a light rain jacket or umbrella.

If you are hearty and want a challenge, Hike Arthur’s Seat, a small hill, which will take 2-2.5 hours, with a great view. It’s Stop 13 on the Green tour,

Of course you want to see Edinburgh castle, the National Museum (free) and Gallery. Oh, and see Parliament, too.

Recommend Carlton Hill, with National Monument.

They still shoot off canons here daily.

Here are my top recommendations: 

Edinburgh Castle. visit the city’s most famous landmark with a breathtaking view over Edinburgh. You'll see the Crown Jewels of Scotland , the mint, and the Stone of Destiny. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the castle's history. Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds.  Royal Mile Stroll, for basic people-watching and shopping.

• Why Visit: The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, offering charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, churches, shops, and cafes. Stop in for a mass if it’s your jam, and see a religious service here at St. Giles.

• Tips: Take your time exploring the side streets and grab a coffee in a cozy café along the way. You may even stop in the Harry Potter neighborhood, Diiagon Alley, Victoria Street, like I did.

Mentioned earlier,  Arthur’s Seat Hike.

• Why Visit: Arthur's Seat offers a gentle trail and panoramic views of the city and coastline. It’s free, and it's a great place for those who enjoy light hiking.

• Tips: Choose the easiest route (via Dunsapie Loch) if you want a less strenuous climb. Bring a windbreaker; it can get windy at the top.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

• Why Visit: This peaceful oasis is perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll among exotic plants and beautifully landscaped gardens. I loved this place and the park across the street, it was not on the touristy lists. Britannia Port is nearby, too.

Princes Street Gardens

• Located right in the city's heart, these gardens are ideal for a leisurely walk with views of the castle and great nature-loving. It’s hard to miss this neighborhood.

• If you’re visiting during December, check out the Christmas Market held here for a festive experience.

 Today’s Misstep: Too much of a good thing, touristy places.

Today’s Travel Advice- Eat early and rest early

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Today’s Destination is Coventry, England

Today’s Misstep- Manila Airport was a disaster

Travel Advice: Bring the thing you usually forget

 

FAQ: What are some simple exercises for travelers, especially solo females in their prime? Here are five I recommend:

1. Walking: Aim for a daily walk to explore your surroundings. It's an easy way to keep your body moving and enjoy the local sights.

2. Leg and Ankle Stretches: Sitting stretches are perfect for waiting in lines or resting. Flex and extend your ankles, or gently lift and lower your legs.

3. Back and Shoulderstretches: Do these to prevent hunching over bags or phones. Raise your arms and clasp your hands above your head, then lean side to side.

4. Wall Push-Ups: Quick and easy in a hotel room, these push-ups are great for keeping your upper body toned.

5. Balance Exercises: Practicing standing on one foot helps with stability and balance and is useful for navigating uneven terrain.

Adding small moments of movement throughout your day will help keep you flexible and energized during your travels. Let me know how you did with these. I’m not a medical doctor, but I do a lot of these.

Today’s destination: Coventry, England

Coventry is full of history, art, and culture, making it a great destination for a solo female traveler

One of the highlights is the Coventry Cathedral: Known for its stunning architecture and poignant history, Coventry Cathedral symbolizes resilience and rebirth. The original structure was bombed during WWII, but the modernist new cathedral, designed by Sir Basil Spence, stands alongside it. The space feels both contemplative and awe-inspiring.

Herbert Art Gallery & Museum: Perfect for a relaxing afternoon, this museum houses an impressive collection of art, history, and culture, including exhibits about Coventry’s role in the Industrial Revolution and WWII. Admission is free, making it a great stop for budget-conscious travelers.

Don’t miss the Coventry Transport Museum: A must-see for anyone interested in cars, this museum features one of the world's largest collections of British-made vehicles. The exhibits trace Coventry's automotive history and even include the famous land-speed record-breaking cars.

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

 

Today’s Destination is Cabrillo National Monument Accessibility Part 2

Today’s Misstep- Don’t forget to stretch like I did.

 

Travel Advice: Swimming? Watch your valuables.

FAQ: My friends ask me how do I enjoy the 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 to the city of San Diego and see the boats go in and out of the channel.

The visitor center is worth seeing, even if you don’t make a purchase. Then hike the bayside trail if you are able, or if not follow the guidance that follows about accessibility.

Today’s destination: Cabrillo National Monument Accessibility Part 2

 

Last episode was about the trails and the tidepools, 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, incorporating a range of features and services to ensure an enjoyable and inclusive experience. Here are some key aspects of its accessibility:

Accessible Pathways and Facilities

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

Parking and Transportation

• There are designated accessible parking areas, including spots near the Lighthouse, which can be requested at the gate.

Assistive Equipment

• 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.

Visual and Auditory Accessibility

• 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 pen13.

Deaf/Hearing Loss Accommodations

• Services include ASL interpreters, signing rangers, open-captioned films, assistive listening devices, and one-way portable microphones1.

Cognitive Concerns

• The park provides quiet areas, sensory-friendly options, and clear signage to make the visit more pleasant and stress-free for visitors with cognitive concerns1.

Service Animals

• The park is welcoming to service animals, with specific accommodations and facilities available to ensure a safe environment for both the visitor and their companion. Regular pets are unfortunately not welcome here.

Access Pass

• 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.

Overall Accessibility

• 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, making it possible for everyone to enjoy the natural, historical, and cultural aspects of the monument.

Today’s Misstep: I forgot to stretch.

 

 

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

 

 

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In this episode, the FAQ:  Can AI really help me travel? 

 

Today’s Destination: Cabrillo National Monument Experience Part 1

 

Today’s Misstep- Mark Twain jokes about European tour guides in his travel books.

 

Travel Advice: If you are interested in travel and do as you listen here, why not purchase a guide that answers most of your questions in one place? 

 

FAQ: Can really AI help me travel? 

 

Answer: AI is a great tool kit for travel. Yes, but be sure to check for accuracy and hallucinations. You will also find bias. But you can start using your phone today to ask about some of the questions you have at this moment. “Do I need to bring an umbrella to England?” That’s a question you already are asking your Alexa, Siri, or other smart device. I just asked that. The answer was that it’s not raining right now in the UK. That did not answer my question, but it helped.  So don’t limit yourself and keep asking questions. Be sure to ask here for a reputable answer to some more challenging questions you want to know will be useful and relatable.

 

 

Today’s destination: Cabrillo National Monument Experience

Cabrillo National Monument is a beautiful spot in San Diego, offering incredible views and a mix of historical and natural experiences. Part 1 focuses on the experiences and Part 2 focus is the accessibility.

I’ve made this experience part of my life in San Diego, since first visiting as a tourist in 1977. It’s one of my all-time favorite places in the world. I hope you get to experience this amazing treasure. It’s such a treasure that I held my birthday party here one year and my friends all had a great time, too.

2. The Tide Pools and Oceanside Trail

https://www.nps.gov/cabr/learn/oceanside-trail.htm

 

 

This visit offers a mix of nature, light activity, and historical exploration—ideal for a solo traveler interested in scenic views and coastal experiences. Want to know more: Check out the show notes: www.nps.gov.

https://www.cnmf.org/visit-the-park

Today’s Misstep: Not getting a guide when I should have.

I have used tour guides on some travels but have also regretted it at other times. If you comment, I’ll do a future episode on this topic. When to use a guide and when to go without.

https://www.gutenberg.org/files/3176/3176-h/3176-h.htm

Today’s Travel Advice- Guidebooks are best before you leave home.

Use my 5 steps Travel Guidebook Series now, before you go, and tell me how you like it! If you have an interest in travel, and you do as you listen here, why not purchase a guide that answers most of your questions in one place? You can use the e-book while traveling, so you won’t get bogged down on the trip.

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Today’s Destination is: Denali National Park, Alaska

 

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In this episode, the FAQ is: How do I manage increasing technology and security for travel?

 

Today’s Destination is: Milan, Italy

 

Today’s Misstep- I almost took a train to Switzerland at the Milan station

 

Travel Advice: Bring a handheld portable fan for the heat. It can be oppressive.

 

FAQ: The level of technology and security has stepped up for travel and entertainment. How do I manage it as a senior citizen in a very busy world?

 

Answer: 

 

There is a growing level of distrust in today’s environment. For some venues, you can no longer use a screenshot of a QR code to access a ticket, so it must be a live link if you don’t have the paper ticket. If you are not on Wi-Fi, you may have trouble accessing the venue, like I did in July at the Symphony, where we used handwritten paper tickets. 

The Crowdstrike tech shutdown of computers in July 2024, with thousands of airline flights canceled, was a peek into what could be an even longer period of shutting down air travel, train travel, and more. So, you need to develop options for adapting your transportation. 

Get educated.

The questions will keep coming, but you can figure it out. Keep listening here for more confidence-building guidance.

 

Today’s destination: Milan, Italy

 

Milan is in northern Italy and is known for its history, culture, and fashion. Many styles originate here, so people-watching is a favorite activity.

 

The famous Duomo Cathedral, a Catholic Church, is in the city's center. I walked around twice to get the full picture and people-watch. I also did some pigeon watching, as there were plenty of them here in this vast square, filled with tourists in the middle of July. Metro stops were plentiful below the square, and the church filled the plaza. People are walking above the church’s structure, near the roof, and you can see them below. 

Shopping:

You can shop at great stores, especially in the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II. It’s great even just for looking for fashion ideas.

 

 

Tip 2: Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

 

 

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