Hosts: David Brodie and Tim Johnson

Location: Berlin, Germany

In this special bonus episode, David and Tim dedicate the full show to one of the most iconic hotels in the world and the best-known property in Germany — the Hotel Adlon Kempinski in Berlin. From royal beginnings to modern-day luxury, the Adlon’s history and service make it a destination in its own right.

Tim shares insights from his most recent stay, what makes the hotel a German cultural landmark, and why it’s worth adding to your travel bucket list.

History and Legacy

• Founded in the late 19th century with the support of Kaiser Wilhelm to rival Europe’s great hotels
• First in Germany with modern luxuries like electricity, elevators, and hot water
• A storied past including destruction during WWII and careful reconstruction
• Cultural fame in Germany, including as the setting of the TV drama Hotel Adlon

Notable Moments

• Visits from royalty, heads of state, and celebrities
• The infamous Michael Jackson balcony incident at the Presidential Suite

Guest Experience

• Traditional elegance with suites offering Brandenburg Gate views
• The expanded Zion Spa, Berlin’s largest, featuring saunas, a lap pool, and jacuzzis
• Exceptional concierge service, including the long-serving head concierge with stories from decades at the Adlon

Dining

• Two Michelin star restaurant Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer serving multi-course French cuisine with expert wine pairings from one of Germany’s top sommeliers
• Small, intimate dining space requiring advance booking

Insider Tips

• Take time to speak with the concierge or the “ladies and gentlemen in red” for behind-the-scenes stories
• Plan for at least one relaxed day at the hotel to enjoy the spa, public spaces, and fine dining
• Location allows you to walk directly to the Brandenburg Gate and Tiergarten

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In this second episode on Berlin, David and Tim shift focus from Cold War landmarks to the practical side of exploring Germany's capital. From where to stay and what to eat to the best way to get around the city, this episode gives you everything you need to plan your own Berlin adventure.

Arrival and Getting Around

• Why Berlin may be the most accessible city in the world
• How to use the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and trams with ease
• Tips for traveling from the airport or international train stations

Where to Stay

• Hotel Adlon Kempinski: Berlin’s most famous hotel, with views of the Brandenburg Gate
• Hotel Bristol: Elegant and well-located, part of the Kempinski family
• Lindner Hotel: A solid mid-range option now partnered with Hyatt
• Hampton Inn West Berlin: Affordable, clean, and close to public transit

What to Eat

• Currywurst: A must-try Berlin street food, especially at the Two Bears food truck near Ostbahnhof
• Schnitzel: Try the generous portions at Felix Austria
• Fine Dining: Michelin-starred dining at Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer in the Hotel Adlon

Hidden Gem

• Kulturbrauerei: A former brewery turned cultural complex with bars, restaurants, and a free museum about daily life in East Germany

Whether you're planning your first visit to Berlin or returning for a deeper dive, this episode offers helpful tips and real-world travel insights. From luxury hotels to street food, you’ll hear firsthand recommendations from experienced travel journalists who know the city well.

Next Episode: A full breakdown of Tim’s stay at the Hotel Adlon Kempinski – one of his favorite hotels in the world.

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Note: Some links mentioned may be affiliate links. Using them to book comes at no extra cost to you and helps support this podcast.

Berlin is a city like no other. From Cold War watchtowers and Prussian palaces to punk clubs and street art-covered sections of the Berlin Wall, this episode dives into one of Europe's most dynamic capitals. David and Tim explore how the city’s past and present intersect, offering a unique travel experience full of culture, complexity, and creativity.

• Berlin Then and Now: The story of a once-divided city reunited
• Cold War Landmarks: Visiting Checkpoint Charlie, the Palace of Tears, and the East Side Gallery

Iconic Sites:

• Brandenburg Gate
• The Reichstag
• Tiergarten Park
• Hidden Gems in East Berlin:
• Karl-Marx-Allee's preserved Soviet-era architecture
• Tränenpalast Museum and its powerful history
• East Side Gallery's open-air art and riverfront
• What makes Berlin feel youthful, energetic, and unlike anywhere else in Germany
• Why Tim keeps returning to the city, and how his first impression as a backpacker changed over time

Whether you're a Cold War history buff, a first-time visitor, or a seasoned traveler returning to Berlin, this episode offers practical insights and thoughtful reflections on what makes the city worth exploring in depth.

Next Episode: Part 2 will cover the best places to eat and stay in Berlin, plus tips on how to navigate the city like a local.

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In part two, David and Tim dive into the practicalities of a Lisbon trip: where to eat, where to stay, and how to get around. Plus, they share their “Can’t Miss” Lisbon experiences.

• Affordable Ubers, historic trams, and why downhill walking is key

• Time Out Market – Ideal for first-timers to sample Portuguese dishes
• LX Factory’s Cantina – Elevated Portuguese “worker food” in an industrial-chic space
• Cura at Four Seasons Ritz – A Michelin-starred tasting menu with local ingredients

• Four Seasons Hotel Ritz – Grand, historic, with a rooftop running track and world-class spa
• Tivoli Avenida Liberdade – Chic, central, and ideal for rooftop drinks
• Corpo Santo Historical Hotel – A 5-star gem with free walking tours, snacks, and even an ice cream machine!

• Sintra – A fairy-tale palace town with UNESCO status and romantic architecture
• Cascais – A charming beach town with 17 different coves and a rich royal history
• Pastéis de Belém – The gold standard of custard tarts (get them hot from the oven!)

Send us your travel questions and suggestions! We love to feature listener ideas—like last week’s Galápagos trip planning segment.

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Note: Some future links may be affiliate links. If you book through them, it supports the podcast at no extra cost to you.

Lisbon: Cobblestones, Culture, and Coastal Charm

In this week’s episode of Travel in 10, David Brodie and travel writer Tim Johnson head to one of Europe’s most underrated capitals—Lisbon. While it might not be top of mind for a first or even second trip to Europe, Portugal’s seaside capital rewards travelers who love slow discovery, local flavour, and old-world charm mixed with modern energy.

In This Episode:

Why Lisbon is a City That Reveals Itself Slowly

• It may not have the landmark checklist of Paris or Rome, but Lisbon offers a unique rhythm. Cobblestone streets, pastel buildings, tiled façades, and a coastal breeze make it a place to explore without an agenda.

Must-Visit Sites & Neighborhoods

• Castelo de São Jorge: Hilltop castle with panoramic city views and live Fado performances
• Expo 98 Site & Oceanarium: A modern contrast to the historic core—great for families, cycling, and architecture buffs
• Belém Tower: 16th-century ceremonial gateway, now a relaxed riverfront gathering spot with music and street food
• Baixa & Barrio Alto: The bohemian heart of the city, with vintage shops, music venues, bookshops, and endless places to explore on foot

Fado: Portugal’s Melancholic Soundtrack

• Fado, the traditional Portuguese music filled with emotion and longing, is everywhere in Lisbon—especially in castle courtyards and cozy venues. Tim gives his honest take (not for every mood), while David highlights how it captures the soul of the city.

Take the Tram

• Hop on Tram 15 for a scenic ride along the Tagus River toward Belém—passing Christ the King, Lisbon’s answer to Rio’s Christ the Redeemer, and soaking in sweeping water views.

Elevador de Santa Justa

• An iconic 1902 neo-Gothic elevator connecting Lisbon’s lower and upper old towns. Come for the convenience, stay for the skyline views (especially at night when it's lit up).

Final Thoughts:

Lisbon isn’t a city that tries to impress with immediate grandeur—it’s a place that gets under your skin the longer you stay. From its layered history to its dynamic neighborhoods and warm affordability, it’s a European capital you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Resources & More:

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In this special bonus episode we're headed to Oregon with the our friends the hosts of the Hidden Trails of Oregon Podcast.

“It’s part action movie, part rock show blurring into the superbowl. It feels modern, but bull riding itself goes back to the bronze age. And that’s true for rodeo contests in general: bull riding, barrel racing or wild cow milking, they’re all based on tradition, and in keeping those traditions alive.

‘Let ‘Er Buck’ makes a lot of sense from the back of a bull. But as we find out, it’s much more than a rodeo shout: it’s a way of life.”

We’re leaping headfirst into the rodeo to end all rodeos, the 115 year-old Pendleton Roundup! In this episode, host Aaron Millar tests his mettle on a massive mechanical hog, before climbing into the stands for a (literally) explosive ‘Xtreme Bulls’ finale. We’ll lean over the bucking chutes and get clobbered by dirt flung from bronco hooves. But the roundup isn’t all spectacle, it’s also about family and tradition. We’ll step back in time to learn about the history of the event while sipping whiskey in the notorious ‘Let ‘er Buck’ room. Stories of champions, princesses, suicide-racers and steer-wrestlers wait around every corner.

We’ll meet a generational indigenous horse relay racing team, hand them microphones, and listen in on their insane bare-back bid for victory. And through it all explore the western ties that bring all these groups to rodeo together each September.

LET ‘ER BUCK!

Remember you can see all of this yourself. Go to PendletonRoundup.com for details and take our advice: book early!

Plan your next Oregon adventure at TravelOregon.com and you can find the full Hidden Trails of Oregon Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Thank you to all guests featured on the show: Toni Minthorn, Scott and Dylan Abramson, Pat Nogle and Butch Knowles A special thank you to Greg and Petra for showing us such a great time, we can’t wait to come back. Brian Thacker led our pre-production, Charles Tyrie assisted on audio editing, and the episode was recorded by Jason Paton who also wrote and co-produced along with host Aaron Millar.

In the second part of our Rome series, Travel in 10 host David Brodie reconnects with award-winning travel writer Tim Johnson, who shares fresh insights from his recent visit to the Italian capital. From smart tips on navigating the city to unforgettable pasta spots and hotel recommendations, this episode focuses on the practicalities of planning a great first trip to Rome—especially if you want to avoid the crowds, find the perfect meal, and stay somewhere memorable.

In This Episode:

Arriving in Rome: What to Know

• Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) Airport is located outside the city—expect a 45+ minute transfer
• Public transit works well but doesn’t reach everywhere due to underground ruins
• Uber operates as a taxi-hailing service; local taxis are plentiful
• Don’t let transit logistics ruin your day—sometimes a cab is worth it

When to Visit

• May and September are ideal: fewer crowds, great weather
• Be mindful of Italian holidays—some local businesses may close in August
• Rome is always busy, but some shoulder-season planning can ease the experience

Where to Eat: Rome’s Food Scene

• Trastevere: A bohemian neighborhood beyond the river, full of narrow laneways and packed with locals and hidden gems
• 50 Kalò di Ciro Salvo: Neapolitan-style pizza, named one of Italy’s best by The New York Times
• Trattoria della Stampa: Small, atmospheric Roman eatery known for its classic pastas: carbonara, cacio e pepe, and amatriciana. Affordable and beloved by locals—reserve ahead!

Where to Stay

• Hotel Hassler: Iconic, family-owned hotel at the top of the Spanish Steps with panoramic views of the Vatican and central Rome
• The Edition Rome: Sleek, modern, design-forward luxury
• St. Regis Rome: Classic elegance with historic character and excellent service
• Waldorf Astoria Rome (Rome Cavalieri): A hillside retreat with resort vibes—perfect for escaping the city buzz

Can’t-Miss Hidden Gems

• Basilica Santa Maria del Popolo: A lesser-known church with two original Caravaggio masterpieces. Open limited hours. Bring a €2 coin to light up the artwork.
• Insider Tip: Ask locals—concierges, tour guides, shopkeepers—for under-the-radar finds. Rome has layers of history and culture waiting to be uncovered.

Explore more at: https://www.voyascape.com

Next up: We head to Lisbon, Portugal, followed by a special guest episode from Paris with Oliver Gee of The Earful Tower. Stay tuned—and don’t forget to send us your travel questions and destination requests.

Note: Some links may be affiliate links. If you book through them, there’s no added cost to you, but it helps support the podcast. Thanks!

In this first of two special episodes on Rome, Italy, hosts David Brodie & Tim Johnson explore the Eternal City as it stands in 2025—where timeless beauty meets the buzz of modern travel. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, and from hilltop gardens to hidden sovereign territories, this episode offers an insightful and entertaining look at how to make the most of your time in Rome, especially if you're visiting during peak season.

In This Episode:

Is Rome Worth Visiting in High Season?

• Why the crowds and heat are worth it—and how to stay cool with tips like filling up at the city’s free nasoni fountains.

Iconic Rome

• Colosseum: Why booking ahead and joining a guided tour transforms your experience
• Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps: Expect crowds, but don’t skip them—coin tosses and city views await
• Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: Must-see masterpieces—book timed tickets in advance
• St. Peter’s Basilica: No ticket required, but take time to explore quieter corners for moments of peace
• Keykeeper Tour Tip: Be the first inside the Vatican by joining a private early-morning opening tour

Off-the-Beaten-Path Highlights

• Access Italy’s Golf Cart Tour: A customizable and stylish way to explore the city’s hidden gems
• Giancarlos Beneditti Corcus: A local artist painting in the laneways near Piazza Navona
• Villa Borghese Gardens: Shady paths, scenic views, and quiet cafés—perfect for escaping the crowds
• Knights of St. John (Sovereign Military Order of Malta): A quirky micro-nation in Rome with its own flag, passports, and even UN observer status

How Many Countries Can You Visit in a Day?

• Rome lets you check off three countries in a single day—Italy, Vatican City, and (unofficially) the Sovereign Military Order of Malta

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Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll cover where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around the Eternal City.

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In this special bonus episode of Travel in 10, host David Brodie brings back a listener favorite from the archives: a first-time family trip to London, England. Originally recorded in 2011, this episode is packed with immersive sounds from the city and timeless recommendations for how to spend 3–4 days in London with kids—including markets, museums, restaurants, and iconic attractions.

This episode was previously only available as a video on our Voyascape YouTube Channel, but we’re bringing it back to the podcast feed due to popular demand.

• Explore London’s Best Markets:
• Old Spitalfields Market – An all-weather indoor market with food, fashion, and a great local vibe
• Brick Lane – Pop-up stalls, record vendors, vintage fashion, and the iconic Vibe Bar
• Columbia Road Flower Market – A Sunday staple with tons of personality
• The Sunday UpMarket – Local designers, vintage finds, and fantastic global street food
• Family-Friendly Museums:
• Museum of Childhood – A hands-on, free museum featuring toys from the 1800s to today
• British Museum – Antiquities from Egypt, Greece, and beyond
• National Gallery – See masterpieces by Van Gogh, Picasso, and more
• Top London Landmarks:
• London Eye – A 30-minute ride offering stunning views of the city
• Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, 10 Downing Street – All within walking distance
• Getting Around:
• Use an Oyster Card for access to the Tube and buses
• Classic double-decker buses and bike rentals also available

• W London – Leicester Square: Stylish and modern with a central location steps from Chinatown, Piccadilly Circus, and Trafalgar Square. A perfect base for your first visit.

• The Spice Market (formerly in W London) – Flavorful pan-Asian cuisine
• Jamie Oliver’s Catherine Street – A new flagship replacing the now-closed Jamie’s Fifteen
• Bocca di Lupo – Fantastic Italian fare in the theatre district
• Gelupo – Fresh gelato and imported Italian products
• Gordon Ramsay’s Plane Food at Heathrow – Elevated airport dining and gourmet picnic baskets to-go

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In Part 2 of our Travel in 10 London series, co-hosts David Brodie and Tim Johnson dive into where to eat, where to stay, and what you absolutely shouldn’t miss on your next visit to one of the world’s most iconic cities.

From rooftop pools and Michelin-starred hot dogs to hologram concerts and bustling food markets, this episode is packed with smart travel tips for repeat visitors ready to explore a deeper side of London.

• Dishoom Shoreditch – A stylish, modern Indian restaurant inspired by Bombay cafés. Famous for its bacon naan roll breakfast and vibrant evening dining.
• Smokestak – A legendary East London BBQ spot with brisket, ribs, and an unforgettable sticky toffee pudding.
• Harrods Food Hall – A gourmet emporium that’s part food court, part culinary theatre—from fish and chips to Kobe beef and a Michelin-starred hot dog stand.
• Restaurant Gordon Ramsay – The world-famous chef’s original fine-dining flagship, still holding three Michelin stars since 1998.

• The Hoxton, Shoreditch – A boutique hotel with stylish rooms, a buzzy lobby bar, and prime East London vibes.
• Mondrian Shoreditch – Chic, design-forward luxury with a rare rooftop pool.
• Andaz London Liverpool Street – A Hyatt property blending high style with history, located on the former site of “Bedlam.”
• The Savoy – Timeless luxury in the West End, near theatres and cultural landmarks, with impeccable service and heritage charm.

• Borough Market – London’s most beloved food market, bursting with artisan eats, gourmet produce, and street food.
• ABBA Voyage – A state-of-the-art, holographic concert experience in a custom-built stadium. A truly unforgettable night out.

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