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What if the most serene, adventure-filled getaway was right in your backyard? Join me, Bob Bales, on the Traveling Fool Podcast as we uncover the charm of the Redneck Riviera, a stretch of paradise from Fort Morgan, Alabama to Panama City, Florida. Fresh from the Southern Travelers Explorer Conference, I share my firsthand experiences of this beloved Emerald Coast destination. From the powdery white sands of Gulf State Park Beach and the tranquil shores of Fort Morgan Beach, to hidden gems like Little Dome and Little Lagoon Beach, there's no shortage of breathtaking spots to relax and unwind. For the nature enthusiasts, we explore the diverse ecosystems and trails of Gulf State Park. And for those craving excitement, discover the thrill of deep-sea fishing charters and family-friendly local amusement parks like Adventure Island and Waterville, USA.

But the Redneck Riviera isn't just about the beaches and adventure; it's a culinary and lodging haven too. Take a mouthwatering tour through Gulf Shores and Orange Beach with iconic eateries like Zeek's, Tacky Jack's, and the delightful City Donut. The Hangout promises an immersive dining experience complete with entertainment. Looking for the perfect place to stay? The Lodge at Gulf State Park offers stunning beach views and top-tier amenities, though it’s worth noting their no-smoking policy. Whether you’re driving or flying in, the ease of access and varied lodging options make this coastal gem a must-visit. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover why the Redneck Riviera should be your next travel adventure!

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What if you could transform every trip into a more enriching and memorable experience by simply adopting a theme? Join me, Bob Bales, in this episode of the Traveling Fool, where I reveal the magic of theme travel. From immersing yourself in military history to exploring local food and drink scenes, we'll discuss how selecting a travel theme can open doors to hidden gems and fascinating stories. I'll share my adventures, like visiting the haunting "Prison Without Walls" in the Philippines and savoring delights at the oldest operating delicatessen in Texas.

Whether your passion lies in culinary delights, historic locations, or the finest local brews, I'll provide tips and insights to help you seamlessly integrate these themes into your travel plans. Let's discover how focusing on what you love can make your journeys more exciting and rewarding. Plus, stay tuned till the end for my top tip on saving money during road trips. Hit that subscribe button and embark on a travel journey that's bound to inspire and transform the way you see the world!

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Eager to embark on an adventure that takes you off the beaten path? Prepare to be armed with an extensive toolbox of road trip planning strategies. From the comfort of our studio, we take you through every aspect of road trip preparation, from prepping your vehicle to planning your route. Not only will we cover the basics, but also dive into how to use Google Maps beyond just directions. This versatile tool can help you explore alternate routes and discover fascinating points of interest to make your journey even more memorable.

It doesn't end there! The second half of our episode unveils secret tips to elevate your road trip experience. Remember, it's not about the destination, but the journey! So, we'll discuss why equipping your vehicle with a dash cam is a game changer and how it can save you from potential headaches. Learn how to use Google Maps like a pro for discovering authentic local dining options, activities, and even the best cigar lounges. We'll also share our personal stories of accidental discoveries on alternate routes. This is not just a podcast episode, but a route to a well-planned, exciting and safe adventure on the road. Buckle up and tune in!

List of Resources and Links

Kayak.com

Hotels.com
Rexing Dashcams
RV Share

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Why do small towns often hold the most intriguing histories? What if secrets of famous figures from the past are just waiting to be uncovered in places many people overlook? Join me, Bob Bales, on a journey to an unsuspecting place that's been home to supermodels, outlaws, and even the King of Rock and Roll himself. That's right, we're heading to the heart of Texas, to a small town, packed with stories and historic events that will make you see small towns in a different light.

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary tales of this town, from its role in a Revolution to its ties with  figures like Elvis Presley and Bonnie and Clyde. Discover how this town of just 7,000 fired the first shot in a revolution, hosted celebrities and learn about one of the deadliest Old West outlaws, John Wesley Hardin, and his epic escape from the city jail. We'll also visit a Hotel, where Elvis and Bonnie and Clyde once stayed. So, buckle up for this thrilling journey and allow the Traveling Fool to guide you on your next history-packed adventure!

List of Resources and Links

Kayak.com

Hotels.com

A day in LaGrange
You Have Heard about the Alamo, but What About Goliad?

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The Traveling Fool Episode 14 / How To Make Memorable Moments On Your Trip Without Spending A Lot

Ever dreamt of embarking on unforgettable travels without emptying your wallet? In this episode I talk about how to make your trip memorable without breaking the bank. I'll share stories of simple and inexpensive experiences that turned out to be the most cherished moments, proving that travel isn't always about luxury hotels and pricey tourist attractions.
 
 Get ready to embark on a journey that starts from planning your trip, finding affordable flights and accommodations, to connecting with locals and discovering hidden gems at your travel destinations. Tune in for unforgettable tales from my home stay in Nepal, a fascinating conversation with a yeoman at the Tower of London, and an unexpected visit to a charming old gas station in Texas. Let's explore together how to create lasting travel memories without breaking the bank!

List of Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Kayak.com

Hotels.com

Agoda.com

Homestay

The Day I Met Ray

Fresh Off The Boat

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Ever dreamed of escaping to a tropical paradise that requires no passport for Americans to visit? Your dream is about to become a reality as we journey to the United States Virgin Islands, the overlooked treasure often eclipsed by Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Join your host, Bob Bales, as he peels back the layers of the islands' rich history, from Christopher Columbus' discovery to its interesting ties to figures such as Alexander Hamilton and the infamous Caribbean pirates. 

We're not stopping at history, though! Every island in the US Virgin Islands has its unique vibe and charm. Hop on this virtual tour as we take you from the bustling capital of St. Thomas to the laid-back luxury of St. John and the historical St. Croix. We'll share insider tips on the best ways to experience each island, including island tours, ferry rides, and even rum tastings. So, buckle up and get ready to add the U.S. Virgin Islands to your travel bucket list.

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More and more tourists are behaving badly. Wether it is defacing historic properties, disrepecting cultures or putting themselves and others in danger.   Is it because of likes on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook or are they just plain morons?           

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Tips for traveling solo.

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Solo travel myths and misconceptions 

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Ft Benton Montana is known as the birthplace of Montana. This beautiful town is a great place to visit and it has quite a History.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Historic Ft Benton

The story of Shep

The Grand Union Hotel

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Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes.
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