The Globe Digger Solo Travel Podcast

In episode 19, I share how at 49, I quit my job and set off to travel the world solo. After years of staying in five-star hotels and resorts, I decided to try hostel life for the first time—and I had plenty of concerns.

Was I too old? Would hostels be safe and clean? Would I fit in with travellers half my age?

More than 100 hostel stays later, my entire perspective has changed. In this episode, I share what happened during my first hostel experience in Nicaragua and explain why hostels have become such an important part of how I travel.

We’ll explore how hostels help solo travellers meet people, experience local culture, discover affordable tours, travel longer and get off the beaten path. I’ll also explain why today’s hostels—from budget dorms to five-star properties—may be nothing like you expect.

Whether you’re 29 or 59, hostel life might be the solo travel experience you’ve been missing.

In episode 18, I share 8 essential travel tips for your first trip to Thailand based on multiple visits since 2020. From arriving with Thai Baht and understanding visa requirements, to getting around Bangkok via BTS Skytrain, river taxis, and island ferries, this episode covers everything you need to travel with confidence.

I also break down street food safety, why 7-Eleven becomes a daily travel essential, and simple hacks to help you save money and avoid common first-time mistakes.

If you're planning your first trip to Thailand or Southeast Asia, this episode will help you arrive prepared and travel smarter.

In episode 17, I take you inside the world-famous Barranquilla Carnival in Colombia - one of the largest, loudest, and most vibrant celebrations on Earth. From chaotic bus rides and packed parade routes to salsa dancing with locals and surviving Aguardiente, this was one of the wildest cultural experiences of my travels.

Barranquilla completely transforms during Carnival. The streets fill with music, dancing, parades, street parties, fireworks, and nonstop energy. I share what it was really like to attend the carnival for the first time as a backpacker, including the Battle of Flowers parade, the nightlife in El Porvenir, late nights at La Troja, and the unforgettable moments that made this experience so special.

I also cover practical tips for first-timers - where to stay, what to wear, safety advice, parade tickets, and how to experience the carnival like a local. If Colombia has ever been on your bucket list, this episode will make you want to book the flight.

Arriving in Quito, Ecuador in the middle of the night with no expectations—and a few safety concerns—quickly turns into an unforgettable travel experience during one of the most unique Easter celebrations in South America.

In episode 16, we explore the contrasts of Quito: a historiccity that feels dangerous after dark, but comes alive during the day with rich culture, deep Catholic faith, and stunning Spanish colonial architecture.

From navigating the challenges of high-altitudetravel (Quito sits at 2,850 meters above sea level) toexperiencing a real earthquake in Ecuador,Every moment brings something unexpected.

The highlight of this journey is the powerful GoodFriday parade in Quito, where thousands dressed in purple fillthe streets in a moving display of devotion. We also visit the iconic Basilica del Voto Nacional, one of the most breathtaking churches in Latin America, and take in panoramic views over the city.

Along the way, we dive into Ecuadorian food andculture, including traditional Easter dishes like Fanesca(a once-a-year Ecuadorian soup) and Higos con queso,a local dessert that perfectly ends the experience.

This episode is more than a travel story—it’s a personal, emotional journey through faith, culture, and discovery in one of South America’s most fascinating destinations. If you're interested in travel podcasts, cultural experiences, South America travel, or unique holiday traditions, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

In episode 15 I visit Paris, France and Greece on a 2 week trip. This is the last podcast on my 90 day Europe itinerary series. In Greece I spend a few days in Athens before taking off the Greek Islands for the remainder of my trip.

You can check out the blog series here:

https://globedigger.ca/category/destinations/europe/

In episode 14, I take you with me on a 3-week journey through Spain and Portugal.

We start in Lisbon, where I have the best croissant of my life, ride the epic tram #28, try grilled sardines, take in an authentic fado show with grilled octopus and visit the Time Out Market.

I then head to the Azores, where I attend the Bliss Vibes Music festival with my friend Manolo, who's a DJ.

Next, I head to Madrid, where I reconnect with an old flame, try Paella, and have a night out in the Recoletos neighbourhood.

In Valencia, I spend some time chilling at Malvarrosa Beach, take a bike tour around the City, and admire the train station, which is an attraction in its own right.

My final stop, Barcelona, is a stop for more beach time at the iconic Barceloneta beach, a visit to Sagrada Familia, and a cocktail bar tour where I get a little carried away.

In this 3-week itinerary, I take you with me to Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Rome and Venice. This is Phase 2, part of my 90-day stay in Europe.

In episode 12, I take you through my Ultimate Europe 30-day itinerary, which was part of my 90-day European Adventure. I share my itinerary in the order in which I visited each country. We visit London, Dublin, Belfast, Brussels, Amsterdam and Berlin. If you're planning a trip to Europe, this podcast is a must-listen!

In this podcast, I discuss:

• What transportation I used to get to each destination

• How long did it take to get to each destination

• Hotels/Hostels I stayed in

• Attractions I visited

• Local experiences off the beaten path

• local culture

• how I found my tours, including the specific tours I did
• Local Sporting events

• Local foods to try, and the restaurants I went to
• Local markets and street food

• Of course, the nightlife

• Concert Experiences

• Some surprises and so much more.

Follow my podcast for my next 60 days in Europe, coming soon.

In episode 11, I discuss how to plan a European train journey using a Eurail pass.

I Cover:

• How I pick my countries and leave room for spontaneous adventures along the way.

• How I Planned My European Adventure.

• How I combined land and air travel.

• How the Eurorail pass works and how to use the Rail Planner app for a better travel experience.

• Eurail tips and tricks, including seat reservations for specific journeys.

• Potential hiccups when travelling through Europe.

And pretty much everything else you need to know for a smooth European adventure, including a few surprises.

In episode 10 I take you with me to the Masaya Volcano just outside of Granada, Nicaragua. The Masaya Volcano is a live volcano that you can get very close to the lava to the point where you could almost jump in for a lava swim Ha!!! Join me on this epic hike with some of the most beautiful views and a sunset that pictures do not do justice. You can read the blog on my website at globedigger.ca. It’s in the Central America destination category.

I share my experience staying at De Boca en Boca hostel in Granada, how to get there and booking a tour for $12.