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Ever wondered what it’s really like to leave the U.S. and start over in another country?

In this episode, I sit down with ceramic artist Nicole Curcio, who moved from Portland, Oregon to a small village in Portugal with her husband and two dogs to build a new life abroad. 

We talk about what inspired the move (hint: lifestyle, healthcare, and a dream of creating an artist residency), and what it actually takes to make it happen, from navigating visas to buying property in a foreign country.

Nicole shares the honest reality of expat life, including the slower pace, language barriers, and the unexpected challenges of… well, getting anything done. But she also talks about the magic of it all: the welcoming community, the beauty of living near the coast, and the joy of building something from scratch.

We also get into practical advice for anyone considering a move abroad, like why you should spend extended time in a place before committing, how to connect with locals, and what she wishes she knew before making the leap.

If you’ve ever dreamed about living in Europe or starting fresh somewhere new, this episode is equal parts inspiration and real talk.

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

Follow Nicole:
🔗 Instagram: @welltraveledwares
🌐 Website: welltraveledwares.com

Resources Mentioned:

• Portugal The Simple Life Podcast
• Facebook Group: Americans & Friends PT (search for expat resources)

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Thinking about a trip to Japan? This episode is the perfect place to start.

I’m joined by global traveler Sylvia Klinger, who has visited Japan multiple times and completely fallen in love with its culture, people, and way of life. 

We talk about what makes Japan so unique, from the incredible cleanliness and efficiency to the deep sense of respect woven into everyday life. Sylvia shares what it feels like to land in Tokyo for the first time, and why so many travelers (herself included) keep going back.

We also get into the practical side of planning a trip, including how to navigate the train system, where to go beyond Tokyo (hello Kyoto and Hiroshima), and what to expect when it comes to food, language, and cultural norms.

You’ll learn simple but important tips, like when to visit (spring for cherry blossoms is hard to beat), how to pack light for train travel, and how small gestures, like bowing or using two hands, can go a long way.

And yes… we talk about everything from bullet trains and bento boxes to tea ceremonies and those famously high-tech toilets.

If Japan is on your list, this episode will give you the confidence (and inspiration) to start planning.

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

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Antarctica. It’s one of those trips that feels almost unreal… until you’re there.

In this episode, I sit down with seasoned traveler Leigh Schuberth to talk about what it’s actually like to visit the most remote place on earth, from crossing the infamous Drake Passage to stepping foot on the continent itself. 

We get into the full experience: the long journey to get there, what it’s like being on an expedition ship (not your typical cruise), and the moment you first see the ice… and realize just how vast and untouched it really is.

Leigh shares incredible wildlife encounters, from thousands of penguins (yes, you hear and smell them before you see them) to whales swimming just feet away and seals lounging on icebergs. We also talk about the surprisingly strict sustainability rules that protect this fragile environment and what you need to know before you go.

And then there’s the Drake Passage… including what happens when rough seas turn a two-day crossing into something much longer.

We also cover practical tips like how long to go, what to pack, and why adding time in places like Buenos Aires or Patagonia makes the trip even more worthwhile.

If Antarctica is on your bucket list, this episode will give you a real, honest look at what to expect and why it’s absolutely worth it.

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

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Want to travel more… without spending more?

In this episode, I sit down with points and miles expert Jeff Neer to break down how to actually use credit card points to travel smarter, save money, and even fly business class. 

We cover the basics (perfect if you’re just getting started), including the best credit cards for earning points, how to rack up miles without changing your spending habits, and the biggest mistakes people make, like hoarding points for “someday.”

Jeff also shares some of his best strategies, from using airline shopping portals to booking last-minute deals and finding hidden award availability. Plus, we talk about when it makes sense to use points vs. paying cash, and how flexibility can unlock incredible trips.

And yes… we get into the fun stuff too. Like how he’s used points to take his family to the World Cup and fly long-haul routes in business class.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by points and miles, this episode will make it feel doable (and maybe even a little addictive).

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

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Planning a trip to Canada? This episode is your starting point.

I’m joined by Emilie Brillon, founder of the travel site Love Life Abroad, who grew up in Quebec City and now lives near the Canadian Rockies, to talk about the best places to visit across this massive (and wildly beautiful) country. 

We cover it all, from the European charm of Quebec City and its magical winter festivals to the jaw-dropping landscapes of Banff, Lake Louise, and the Rocky Mountains. Emilie also shares what it’s really like to live in Alberta, including long winters, incredible skiing, and endless summer adventures.

We also get into some of Canada’s most underrated spots, like the Maritimes, Northern Ontario, and Vancouver Island, plus unique experiences like whale watching, wildlife spotting, and even staying in an ice hotel.

And of course… we talk food. Poutine, beavertails, fresh seafood, and more.

If you’re trying to figure out where to go (and when), this episode will help you narrow it down and start planning.

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

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What’s it really like to travel through West Africa?

In this episode, I sit down with incredible world traveler Bonnie Huff, who has visited over 120 countries, to talk about her 57-day journey across 12 countries in West Africa. 

From Senegal and Ghana to Sierra Leone and Guinea, Bonnie shares what surprised her most, what challenged her, and what made this one of the most meaningful trips of her life.

We talk about everything from traveling with a guide (and why it’s essential in this region) to navigating long days on the road, staying connected, and what it’s like as a female traveler. Bonnie also shares powerful experiences visiting remote villages, witnessing traditional dances and ceremonies, and connecting with locals in ways that go far beyond typical travel.

This isn’t your typical bucket list trip… and that’s exactly what makes it so impactful.

If you’re curious about traveling to West Africa, or just love hearing about bold, off-the-beaten-path adventures, this episode will open your eyes to a completely different side of the world.

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

You can learn more about Bonnie and her travels by visiting her blog: https://www.bonnieflies.com/

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Have you ever dreamed of taking a solo trip to Paris… but felt a little unsure about doing it alone?

In this episode, I sit down with journalist and storyteller Amy Boyle to talk about her three-week solo journey to Paris and why it was exactly what she needed during a time of personal change and loss. 

We talk about how she planned the trip, stayed safe, and explored the city at her own pace, from wandering different neighborhoods to discovering charming cafés and hidden gardens. Amy shares simple but brilliant tips for solo travel, including how to navigate a new city confidently and how to build flexibility into your days.

But this conversation goes deeper than logistics. We talk about what it really feels like to spend extended time alone, how solo travel helps you reconnect with yourself, and why slowing down might be the most meaningful part of any trip.

Amy also shares a few beautiful rituals you can try, like writing postcards to yourself, plus easy ways to start small, like taking yourself out for coffee or planning a solo weekend close to home.

If you’ve been craving time for yourself or thinking about your first solo trip, this episode will give you the nudge (and the confidence) to go for it.

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

Amy’s Paris recommendations: 

• Hotel worth the splurge: Hotel Dupond Smith (only has 8 rooms!) 
• Must-visit bookstore: Shakespeare and Company
• Books to read:  At the Existentialist Cafe by Sarah Bakewell, The Art of French Eating by Ann Mah, Paris by Gertrude Stein and The Paris Wife by Paula McLain
• Movies that take place in Paris: Julie and Julia, Before Sunset, and Midnight in Paris
• Favorite restaurants: La Mansion Rose,  Le Consulat Café (great mussels and people watching!), Carnavalet Museum (beautiful garden for lunch) and La Tour outside of Paris in Versailles

Follow Amy on Substack at: https://amyboyle.substack.com/ and listen to her podcast. 

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Think traveling the world with kids is too complicated, too expensive, or just… not realistic? This episode might change your mind.

I’m joined by Rebecca Ryle, a family travel coach, doctor, and mom of three, who has figured out how to make long-term, meaningful family travel actually doable. 

We talk about how she and her family have traveled the world, from road-tripping across the U.S. in an RV to living in the jungle in Sumatra… all while raising three boys. And one of the biggest game changers? HomeExchange.

Rebecca breaks down exactly how home exchange works, why it makes travel more affordable, and how it allows families to live like locals (instead of just visiting). Think staying in real neighborhoods, connecting with locals, and having experiences you simply can’t get from a hotel.

We also talk about the real benefits of traveling as a family, from building resilience and confidence to creating deeper connections and lifelong memories.

If you’ve been dreaming about traveling more with your kids but aren’t sure how to make it happen, this episode is full of practical tips and inspiration to get you started.

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

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If Italy already has your heart… this episode will make you fall even harder.

I’m joined by Italy expert, author, and tour leader Susan Van Allen to talk about what makes Italy such a powerful destination, especially for women. From her Italian-American roots to leading women-only trips across the country, Susan shares why Italy feels so personal, soulful, and unforgettable. 

We talk about where to go (from Tuscany to Sicily), but also how to experience Italy differently. Think behind-the-scenes moments with artisans, long meals, and slowing down enough to really take it all in.

We also get into one of my favorite topics… Italian spas. From thermal baths to volcanic mud treatments, Susan explains why this is a must-do and why it’s completely different from a typical U.S. spa experience.

Plus, we talk about the magic of traveling with other women, the deep connections that happen on these trips, and why Italy has a way of bringing people together in the best possible way.

If you’re dreaming about Italy or planning your next trip, this episode is full of inspiration (and a few ideas you probably haven’t considered yet).

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

You can learn more about Susan and her tours to Italy for women by visiting: https://www.susanvanallen.com/

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Thinking about Morocco? This episode will make you want to book the trip.

I’m joined by James Beard Award-winning chef Joanne Weir to talk about why Morocco completely stole her heart and why she keeps going back year after year. 

We get into everything you need to know before you go, from the best time to visit and where to stay (hello, dreamy riads) to must-see spots like Marrakesh, Fez, and the coast of Essaouira. Joanne also shares what makes Morocco such a sensory experience, from the spice-filled souks to the incredible tea rituals and vibrant street life.

And because Joanne is Joanne… we spend plenty of time on the food. Think tagines, fresh-baked bread, olive oil, and hands-on cooking with local women who’ve been perfecting these dishes for generations.

We also talk cultural tips, what to wear, how to shop the markets, and why slowing down is the best way to experience it all.

If you love food, culture, and immersive travel, this one’s for you. Learn more about Joanne and this interview on The Gomes Guide Substack.  

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

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