Want to travel lighter, stress less, and actually feel good when you land? This episode is packed (pun intended) with tips.

I’m joined again by seasoned traveler Sylvia Klinger, who has visited 50+ countries and logs over 200,000 miles a year, to break down how to pack and fly like a pro. 

We start with packing, and Sylvia’s biggest rule: start early. Like… two weeks early. She shares how to build a simple capsule wardrobe, why she never checks a bag, and the exact essentials she always brings (think packing cubes, mini toiletries, a go-to travel outfit, and a surprisingly genius trick involving shower caps and shoes).

We also get into the mindset shift of packing light, fewer shoes, versatile outfits, and only what you actually need.

Then we move to the flight itself… and this is where things get really interesting.

Sylvia walks us through her exact routine for avoiding jet lag, including:

• Why you should skip alcohol and heavy meals on the plane
• How to train your body before you even leave
• The surprising sleep strategy she swears by 
• What to eat (and not eat) before and during your flight

She also shares her must-haves for long-haul comfort, from compression socks and eye masks to noise-canceling headphones and a seat cushion that might just change your life.

And one of my favorite takeaways? Traveling well isn’t about bringing more… it’s about bringing the right things.

If you’ve ever overpacked, struggled to sleep on a plane, or started a trip feeling exhausted, this episode will completely change how you travel.

👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction 
02:45 Packing Philosophy and Essentials
05:45 Traveling Light: Tips for Minimalist Packing
08:33 Health and Safety Essentials for Travelers
11:32 Navigating Airport Security and Liquid Regulations
14:21 The Importance of Packing Cubes
17:01 Choosing the Right Outfits for Travel
19:57 Traveling Comfortably: Clothing and Accessories
22:47 Preparing for Long Flights and Time Zone Adjustments
24:49 Traveling Smart: Sleep and Nutrition Strategies
28:41 Packing Like a Pro: Preparation Tips
32:22 Navigating Airports: Security and Lounge Benefits
37:00 Comfort on the Plane: Seat Selection and Essentials
40:55 Staying Healthy: Snacks and Hydration
46:21 Final Thoughts: Maximizing Travel Experience

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If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing a European Christmas market… this episode will make you want to book the trip immediately.

I sit down with travel writer Maggie Downs to talk about her journey through some of the most magical Christmas markets in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, and how the experience completely changed the way she sees the holiday season. 

We talk about what these markets are really like, from twinkling lights and festive music to the feeling of walking through a real-life snow globe.

Maggie shares everything you need to know to plan your own trip, including:

• When to go (mid-November through Christmas Eve is peak season)
• How to navigate between cities using trains and Eurail passes
• Why starting in Frankfurt makes planning easy

And then… we get into the best part: the food.

Think mulled wine (glühwein), hot cocoa, roasted chestnuts, potato pancakes with applesauce, raclette, fondue, crepes, and sweet chimney cakes filled with Nutella or whipped cream.

We also talk about what to buy (yes, you’ll want to bring an extra bag home), from handmade ornaments and artisan goods to collectible mugs unique to each market.

Plus, Maggie shares some of the most unique experiences you can find, from medieval-themed markets to Alpine towns with Krampus parades and even a giant advent calendar built into a city hall.

If you’re looking for a festive, immersive travel experience that feels completely different from the holidays at home, this episode will inspire you to go.

👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to European Christmas Markets

03:02 Maggie's Transformative Experience at the Markets

06:02 Overview of Christmas Markets in Europe

09:04 Diverse Themes and Unique Markets

11:51 Vendors and Products at the Markets

15:05 Delicious Food and Drink Offerings

18:01 Entertainment and Activities at the Markets

20:58 Planning Your Visit to the Markets

24:00 Packing Tips for the Christmas Markets

27:03 Final Tips and Recommendations

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What if you could live somewhere with no cars, no stores, and nothing but nature all around you?

In this episode, I sit down with my friend Alicia Riley, who lives full-time on Dewees Island, a tiny, car-free barrier island just 20 minutes from Charleston, South Carolina… and it might just be one of the most magical places in the U.S. 

We talk about what it’s really like to live there, from taking a 15-minute ferry to get home to unloading groceries into wheelbarrows and getting around by golf cart.

But what makes this place unforgettable isn’t just the logistics… it’s the lifestyle.

Alicia shares what it feels like to raise kids in a completely unplugged environment, where afternoons are spent fishing, walking the beach, or spotting dolphins from the ferry. We also get into the island’s deep connection to nature, from bioluminescent water at night to one of the most incredible things I’ve ever heard…

From May to August, Alicia is part of a team that tracks and protects loggerhead turtle nests, waking up before sunrise to walk the beach, find nests, and (if they’re lucky) watch baby turtles make their way to the ocean.

We also talk about the strong sense of community on the island, think weekly happy hours, golf cart parades, and neighbors who truly look out for each other.

And if you’re wondering… yes, you can visit. (But be warned: once you get there, you may never want to leave.)

If you’re craving a slower, more connected way of living or just want to hear about one of the most unique places in the U.S., this episode will stay with you.

👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Dewey's Island
02:52 Living with Hurricanes
06:02 The History of Dewey's Island
08:57 Ferry Tales: Getting to Dewey's Island
11:59 Life on the Island: Community and Nature
15:07 The Joy of Swimming and Water Activities
17:55 Turtle Conservation Efforts
20:54 The Importance of Nature in Childhood
25:19 Turtle Nesting and Conservation Efforts
32:10 Life on Dewey's Island: Community and Nature
41:19 Seasons and Local Culture
49:11 The Magic of Island Life

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What does it really take to pack up your life and move across the world… with two young kids?

In this episode, I sit down with Emma Shoemaker, who moved her family from Florida to Australia after more than a decade in the U.S., to talk about what that transition actually looks like, from selling almost everything they owned to navigating visas, logistics, and a whole lot of uncertainty. 

We get into the emotional side of the move (spoiler: it’s a rollercoaster), plus the very real logistics, like deciding what to ship, how long it takes (months!), and why they chose to take a six-week detour through Europe along the way.

Emma shares what it was like to:

• Sell nearly everything and start fresh
• Buy a home sight unseen in Australia
• Navigate complicated visa and paperwork processes
• Help her kids adjust to a new country, school system, and culture

We also talk about the cultural differences between the U.S. and Australia, from lifestyle and community to language (yes, even English feels different), and what “home” really means after living in multiple places.

And if you’ve ever dreamed about moving abroad, Emma shares some incredibly practical advice, including why doing an extended stay before committing can make all the difference.

This is equal parts inspiration and real talk, and a reminder that while moving abroad isn’t easy… it might just be worth it.

👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.

Chapters

 00:00 The Journey Back to Australia

03:06 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Moving

05:53 Selling Everything: The Facebook Marketplace Experience

09:01 Adventures in Europe Before the Move

12:10 Cultural Adjustments: Embracing New Norms

15:00 Navigating the Housing Market from Afar

17:53 The Renovation Journey Begins

20:55 Advice for Families Moving Abroad

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If you love food and travel… this episode is for you.

I sit down with Kara Ricciardi, founder of Stretchy Pants Food Tours in San Francisco, to talk about how food tours can completely transform the way you experience a destination. 

Kara has traveled to over 80 countries (yes, 80!) and is a trained chef, so she brings a unique perspective on how food, culture, and connection all come together when you travel.

We talk about how she turned her love of food and travel into a business, and why food tours are one of the best ways to really get to know a place, from meeting local chefs to discovering hidden gems you’d never find on your own.

We also get into her San Francisco tours, including:

• Chinatown dim sum and tea experiences
• A North Beach “gourmet ghost tour” (yes, haunted + delicious)
• Fisherman’s Wharf and Ferry Building food tours
• Custom tours for groups, team building, and special events

And what I love most about her approach? It’s not scripted. Every tour feels like you’re hanging out with a local friend who just happens to know all the best places to eat.

We also talk about why food connects people in such a powerful way, the difference between eating at a place vs. understanding the story behind it, and how these shared experiences create lasting travel memories.

If you’re planning a trip to San Francisco, or just want to experience your own city in a new way, this episode will definitely inspire you to eat your way through it.

👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.

Chapters

00:00 Kara's Journey from Brooklyn to San Francisco

02:56 The Impact of Travel on Food and Culture

06:01 Memorable Culinary Experiences Around the World

09:07 The Birth of Stretchy Pants Food Tours

12:12 Creating Unique Food Tour Experiences

15:00 Exploring San Francisco's Culinary Landscape

17:55 Diverse Tour Offerings and Customization

20:55 Future Plans for Stretchy Pants Food Tours

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Planning a trip to Seattle? This episode is your insider guide.

I sit down with Natalie Compagno, a California native who’s been living in Seattle for the past decade (and has traveled to over 100 countries), to talk about what makes this city so special, from its creative energy to its deep connection to nature. 

We get into the soul of Seattle, a place shaped by First Nation cultures, Scandinavian roots, and a thriving food, music, and coffee scene that goes way beyond the stereotypes.

We cover all the essentials (yes, Pike Place Market is worth it), but also the hidden gems you might miss, like:

• A historic tower with one of the best views in the city
• A quick water taxi ride to a Hawaiian-inspired local favorite
• Ferry rides to nearby islands that feel like a totally different world

We also talk neighborhoods, from funky Fremont to hip Ballard and up-and-coming Georgetown, each with its own personality, food scene, and local flavor.

And of course… we talk food and drink.

Fresh seafood, next-level brunch, craft cocktails, local breweries, and one of the most exciting dining scenes in the country right now, including Filipino and Laotian cuisine that’s putting Seattle on the map.

We also get into when to visit (hint: don’t sleep on spring and fall), how to embrace the rain like a local, and the best ways to experience the outdoors, from paddleboarding on Lake Union to catching sunset views over the water.

If you’re planning a trip to Seattle, or just love discovering cities through a local lens, this episode is packed with tips and inspiration.

👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.

Chapters

00:00 The Soul of Seattle

02:58 Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

06:08 Best Times to Visit Seattle

08:57 Cultural Influences and Music Scene

11:57 Sports and Community Pride

14:47 Neighborhood Vibes and Unique Experiences

17:54 Culinary Delights and Food Culture

20:41 Drinks and Nightlife in Seattle

23:52 Outdoor Adventures and Nature

26:50 Moments that Define Home

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Chile might not be at the top of your travel list… but after this episode, it just might be.

I sit down with Paula Tejeda, a Chilean-born chef, cultural ambassador, and founder of San Francisco’s beloved Chile Lindo, to talk about what makes Chile such a unique and unforgettable destination. 

From the Atacama Desert in the north to Patagonia in the south, Chile is a country of extremes, think volcanoes, glaciers, wine valleys, and a coastline that rivals California’s. Paula shares what it’s like to grow up between Chile and the U.S., and how that dual perspective shapes the way she sees travel, culture, and community.

We talk about what to do (and when to go), including:

• Exploring Chile’s national parks and eco-tourism experiences
• Visiting wine regions that feel like Napa 30 years ago
• Discovering the Lake District, coastal towns, and the dramatic landscapes of Patagonia

And then… we talk food.

Empanadas (of course), but also sandwiches, fresh seafood, Chilean pastries, and the traditions that define everyday life, like once (afternoon tea), where friends and family gather to slow down and connect.

We also dive into Chile’s rich cultural identity, from poetry and music to indigenous Mapuche traditions, plus the deep (and surprising) historical ties between Chile and California.

If you’re looking for a destination that combines natural beauty, incredible food, and meaningful cultural experiences, this episode will open your eyes to a place you may not have considered… yet.

👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.

Chapters

 00:00 Exploring Chile: A Unique Geography and Culture

04:02 Personal Connections: Growing Up Between Two Worlds

09:57 Cultural Values: Family, Community, and Traditions

13:43 Chilean Cuisine: Beyond Empanadas

20:49 The Role of Music in Chilean Culture

29:46 Traveling to Chile: Must-See Destinations

50:29 Keeping Chilean Culture Alive in San Francisco

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What if you could experience a destination… before you even get there?

In this episode, I sit down with travel writer and former tour guide Kyle Durnan-Kern, creator of the Travel by Music series, to talk about how music can completely transform the way you travel. 

Kyle creates deeply researched playlists for countries around the world, featuring artists who were born and raised there, spanning decades and genres, all designed to help you connect with a place on a deeper level.

We talk about how this idea came to life (starting with childhood mixtapes and evolving into a full-on passion project), and why music might be one of the most powerful ways to understand a culture, even if you don’t speak the language.

Kyle also shares what goes into creating each playlist (spoiler: it’s a serious rabbit hole), plus some of her favorite discoveries, including falling in love with Peru through its music before ever visiting. 

We also get into:

• Why her “born and raised” rule matters (and the debates it sparks)
• How music reflects identity, history, and cultural pride
• Why playlists can be a more accessible way to explore the world than food or language
• The surprising artists and sounds she’s uncovered along the way

And as a former tour guide, Kyle shares a few travel tips you definitely want to hear… including how to avoid common tourist scams (yes, we’re talking about those street games).

If you love travel, music, and finding deeper connections when you explore the world, this episode will completely change how you plan your next trip.

👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.

Listen to Kyle's playlists on Spotify here.  

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to The Concientious Traveler

02:42 The Birth of Travel by Music

05:32 Guidelines for Playlists and Cultural Representation

07:40 Falling in Love with Music and Places

08:17 The Power of Music in Understanding Culture

11:05 Discovering New Music: The Research Process

16:11 Exploring Music from Different Countries

19:10 The Importance of Indigenous Music

20:04 Experiencing Live Music While Traveling

24:52 Travel Tips and Scams to Avoid

25:41 The Journey of a Tour Guide

28:17 Challenges in Curating Playlists

29:23 The Impact of Sharing Music

32:32 Looking Forward to Future Travels

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What’s it really like to travel to one of the most remote places on earth?

In this episode, I sit down with Carolyn Shimek to talk about her two-month adventure through Patagonia, spanning both Chile and Argentina, where she and her husband traveled by truck camper, hiked across glaciers, and fully embraced life off the grid. 

We get into how they planned such an epic trip (including working with a local travel planner), and what it’s actually like to overland across Patagonia, from finding campsites using apps like iOverlander to navigating unpredictable weather, ferry delays, and long stretches without gas stations.

Carolyn shares the real experience of being out there, from extreme winds and constantly changing landscapes to those “is this even real?” moments surrounded by glaciers, mountains, and wide-open wilderness.

We also talk about some unforgettable highlights, like trekking across a glacier (with a slightly nerve-wracking twist), ziplining over rivers just to continue the hike, and boating past icebergs and seals in near-total silence.

Beyond Patagonia, we touch on side trips to places like Tierra del Fuego and the Atacama Desert, plus cultural experiences like learning from an indigenous weaver and sipping pisco sours after long days of adventure.

And if you’re thinking about planning a trip like this, Carolyn shares what you need to know, from packing the right gear (hello wool base layers and serious wind protection) to building in flexibility when things don’t go according to plan.

If you’re craving a true adventure, this episode will inspire you to go bigger, stay longer, and embrace the unknown.

👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.

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Want to take better photos when you travel? This episode will completely change how you see the world.

I sit down with legendary travel photographer Robert Holmes, who has been shooting professionally since 1979 (including work for National Geographic), to talk about what actually makes a great travel photo. 

We go beyond camera settings and gear, and get into the real heart of photography: storytelling.

Bob shares why the best photos capture a true sense of place, not just something “pretty,” and why building a connection with people matters so much more than snapping a quick shot. We also talk about the ethics of travel photography, especially in places like Morocco, where tourists often miss the human connection entirely.

He shares incredible stories from his career, including time spent with Ansel Adams (yes, really), shooting around the world, and how his approach has evolved from film to digital (and now video).

We also get into practical advice you can use right away, like:

• How to train your eye to see like a photographer
• Why your first impressions can lead to your best shots
• The importance of light, composition, and emotion
• Why editing your photos (and revisiting them later) matters more than you think

But one of my favorite takeaways? The most meaningful photos aren’t always the “best” ones… they’re the ones that connect you to people and moments.

If you love photography, travel, or just want to capture your trips in a more meaningful way, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.

👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.

Chapters

 00:00 The Journey of a Photographer

07:07 Scouting and Capturing Moments

15:05 The Ethics of Travel Photography

23:28 The Art of Storytelling Through Photography

26:12 The Importance of Human Connections in Photography

28:38 Upcoming Travels and Responsible Tourism

31:30 The Journey Behind 'Passages' Book

33:49 Advice for Aspiring Travel Photographers

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