Travels With Jim and Rita

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Julie Tallman has spent over 15 years navigating the globe on horseback, forging unforgettable connections and experiences. This week, Julie brings us a heartwarming tale from her recent adventure in Serbia, weaving through the countryside on a progressive ride and staying with locals who embody the true spirit of hospitality. Learn how she uncovers these hidden gems through specialized agencies like Hidden Trails and listen to her recount the endearing encounter with a Serbian farmer that truly captures the essence of travel.

Jim and Rita also share their own exhilarating escapades, from the challenging terrains of Peru to the serene bus and train journeys that provide a stark contrast to the hustle of air travel. With stories from wine tours in California to relaxing spa days in Poland, we celebrate the diverse ways in which we can explore the world. Solo horseback travel takes center stage, showcasing the unique joys and unexpected moments that make each journey special.

Finally, we celebrate the richness of Serbian hospitality and dive into equine adventures across Tuscany and Western Ireland. Listen to humorous tales of navigating tricky trails and ponder future dreams of riding across Icelandic fjords and the Mongolian steppes. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a beginner eager to start your own journey, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Join us as we explore the world, one hoofbeat at a time.

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What happens when a retired Army veteran channels her passion for exploration into a thriving luxury travel business? Meet Jenifer Breaux, owner of JB Travel Pros, who shares her incredible journey from her roots in northeastern Ohio to becoming an expert in crafting unforgettable travel experiences. Inspired by family trips and a life-changing study excursion to the Bahamas, Jenifer’s love for travel guided her through a military career specializing in chemical, biological, and nuclear warfare analysis. Discover how her military background and adventurous spirit seamlessly merged, paving the way for her to create bespoke luxury travel itineraries that promise to engage all five senses.

Parenting children with special needs comes with its own set of unique challenges and rewards. Jenifer opens up about balancing her career while advocating fiercely for her children’s well-being. From managing doctor’s appointments to navigating school activities, she shares personal stories and practical tips that are both heartwarming and enlightening. Gain valuable insights into the art of planning meaningful family travel, emphasizing that with determination and flexibility, enriching experiences are not only possible but profoundly rewarding.

This episode also offers a glimpse into Jenifer’s entrepreneurial journey, from establishing the travel franchise Dream Vacations to the evolution of JB Travel Pros. Learn about her creative strategies for building a client base and marketing luxury travel, including memorable multi-sensory experiences like dining at the Eiffel Tower and perfume-making in Paris. Jenifer also discusses her upcoming book tour, future travel plans with her family, and the thrill of spontaneous adventures. Tune in as we explore her inspiring story and get motivated to turn your own travel dreams into reality.

Website: https://www.iamjeniferbreaux.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamjeniferbreaux
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjeniferbreaux

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Ever wondered how a childhood passion can blossom into a prolific career? Join us as we chat with Julie Diebolt Price, a seasoned travel writer and photographer who transformed her early love for snapping photos with a Brownie camera into a life filled with published works and global adventures. Julie shares her unexpected journey, overcoming her fear of English classes to become a celebrated author and mentor. She reveals the magic of capturing travel experiences through timely writing and the exhilarating feeling of seeing her work in print. Get ready to be inspired by Julie’s story and gain insights into balancing the artistry of photography with the craft of writing.

In our next segment, Julie demystifies the world of stock photography, offering practical tips on capturing stunning images using just your smartphone and traveling light with a preference for trains over flights. Julie's passion for scenic destinations like Italy, France, Mexico, Canada, and the Rockies shines through as she discusses her favorite spots to photograph. We also offer a sneak peek into upcoming events and invite you to explore our travel adventures through our blog. Connect with us and share your stories because we believe in traveling not to escape life, but to ensure life doesn’t escape us.

Website = https://phototravelwrite.com/
X/Twitter = @JDPphotoBIZ
FaceBook = @PhotoTravelWrite
Instagram = PhotoTravelWrite

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Can one transformative trip change your entire life? Neo Johnson's story suggests it can. Starting from a dark period in 2019, Neo recounts how a tragic loss prompted his journey towards a life filled with travel, personal growth, and unexpected discoveries. Listen as Neo details his experience of visiting 72 countries, from his first significant trip to Barbados amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, to his current adventures in Colombia. This episode promises an inspiring deep dive into the unpredictable nature of life and the power of shifting perspectives.

What does it take to shed 150 pounds and change your life? Neo Johnson, formerly known as Alistair, opens up about his battle with obesity and food addiction. Now a certified personal trainer, Neo shares the emotional and psychological connections to food that he had to understand and overcome. We discuss the daily commitments required to maintain weight loss and the importance of recognizing personal triggers. This conversation is a candid look into the challenges faced when living in different countries while trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle, highlighting the universal presence of temptations like sugary foods.

Ever wondered how cultural immersion can transform your outlook on life? Join us as we explore the profound impact of living abroad indefinitely. From the intricacies of everyday tasks like banking and transportation to significant societal differences in elder care and disability assistance, we examine what it's like to truly embrace diverse cultural landscapes. Neo also shares his passion for coffee culture, explaining his move to Colombia and his love for cities like Medellin and Bogota. Tune in to discover how liberating your mindset can lead to remarkable personal achievements.

Neo's Website and Info - http://bit.ly/m/BeingNeo
Neo's Podcast - https://podcastindex.org/podcast/6851562

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What does it take to leave a stable career in Corporate America and become a globetrotting travel writer? Join us as we journey with Amy Piper, who did just that! Amy's transition is nothing short of inspiring, and she brings us along on her adventures from a thrilling photo safari in Tanzania to an eagerly anticipated culinary expedition in Italy. Her tales of unusual foods will fascinate both travel enthusiasts and food lovers.

Discover the magic of finding hidden culinary gems during U.S. road trips. We've gathered priceless tips on spotting the best local eateries, including observing where public utility workers dine and tapping into the wisdom of transportation workers. Plus, Amy gives us a sneak peek into her latest book, "Secret Michigan: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure," filled with unique attractions and amusing anecdotes from her extensive travels across Michigan. Ever heard of the Anatomy of Death Museum in Mount Clemens? You won't want to miss this!

If you've ever dreamt of becoming a travel writer, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. Amy shares her experiences and tips on writing about both Midwest and international destinations. She discusses her book "A Hundred Things to Do in Lansing, Michigan Before You Die" and her contributions to "Midwest Road Trip Adventures." Learn about essential resources for aspiring writers, like Travel Writers University and Nomadic Matt's blogging course. Don't forget to check out our blog at jimsantosbooks.com for more travel stories, updates, and to connect with us!

Amy's Website - https://followthepiper.com/
Twitter - https://x.com/amythepiper
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/followthepiper
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/followthepiper/

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Ever wondered if a shared love for travel could reignite the spark in a long-term marriage? Meet Zeke and Terri Mead, who were on the verge of divorce after 25 years together until the COVID-19 lockdown forced them into close quarters. Discover how daily intimacy, vulnerability, and therapy, combined with their mutual but diverse interests—Zeke's love for cycling and Terri's passion for museums—breathed new life into their relationship. They recount their adventures from quaint bike rides to serene beach walks and the genesis of their travel channel in Half Moon Bay.

Curious about balancing career shifts and family dynamics? Zeke's journey from managing a wood shop to becoming a full-time homemaker and videographer offers a unique perspective. He shares the challenges and rewards of evolving his videography skills with tools like iMovie and Final Cut Pro, all while juggling family responsibilities and creative pursuits. Together with Terri, they reveal how pet-sitting during their upcoming trip to Washington, D.C., allows them to blend local living, content creation, and client work seamlessly.

We also introduce an inspiring aviation-themed consultant and angel investor who has shattered glass ceilings in male-dominated industries. Learn how she launched the "Piloting Your Life" podcast and wrote a book to empower women over 40. Her story underscores the importance of lifelong learning, stepping out of comfort zones, and the enriching experience of slow travel. From navigating the complexities of perimenopause to planning future projects like teaching at Stanford, her journey is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of personal growth. Whether you're looking to rekindle a relationship, pivot your career, or seek inspiration from trailblazing women, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights.

Website: https://www.zekeandterri.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@zekeandterri
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zekeandterri/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zekeandterri
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zekeandterri

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What happens when a young couple swaps their wedding vows for an epic global adventure? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Seth and Sarah, who did just that—and came back with more than souvenirs. This episode unveils their incredible journey from backpacking across continents to the unexpected joy of parenthood, all while navigating the challenges of a world on lockdown. Discover how they resumed their travels with baby Millie in tow, from traversing Canada to soaking up the sun in Jamaica, and the crucial lessons they learned along the way, like the art of packing light and finding supplies on the go.

We also dive into how rising mortgage rates pushed Seth and Sarah to make a life-changing decision: transitioning from occasional vacations to full-time globe-trotting. Learn their secret sauce for meticulous yet flexible travel planning, and get inspired by their memorable detours like the one to France. They also share the hurdles and rewards of maintaining a social media presence and generating income through their blog, atlasadventured.com, and personalized travel planning services. Plus, get a taste of their culinary escapades in Peru and hear about their future travel aspirations.

Ever wondered how to homeschool your child while exploring the world? Seth and Sarah share their unique approach to "world schooling" Millie, highlighting her impressive language skills and social interactions with kids from various cultures. They open up about initial skepticism from family and friends and the research and safety measures they take to ensure smooth travels. In this episode, we also explore the logistics of long-term travel in Europe, especially within the Schengen Zone's 90-day limit. From their strategic planning tips to reflections on how this lifestyle has inspired even their most travel-averse relatives, Seth and Sarah offer a compelling narrative that will make you rethink what's possible for family life.

Website: https://www.atlasadventured.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AtlasAdventured
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@AtlasAdventured
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AtlasAdventured

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Imagine going from the daily grind of dairy farming and city commuting to embracing the freedom of life on the road. Meet Mandy and Tui Travers, native New Zealanders who, after a life-altering accident at 60, decided to sell their home and embark on an adventurous journey in a caravan. In our latest episode, they share their incredible story of transition from rigorous work schedules to a nomadic lifestyle, offering personal insights into the benefits and challenges of house sitting as a means to reduce travel costs and create unique experiences.

Discover the profound connections Mandy and Tui have made with people and communities across New Zealand. They shed light on the small-world charm of their homeland, where personal connections often lead to unexpected encounters. We dive deep into the emotional aspects of maintaining strong family ties while enjoying the freedom to explore new places. Listen in as we discuss how travel affords them the luxury of time to appreciate their surroundings and the joy of living life on their terms, even as they navigate the complexities of being physically distant from their children and grandchildren.

In this episode, we also explore practical aspects of their nomadic lifestyle, from choosing a spacious American Rockwood caravan over a camper van to mastering the art of towing. Mandy’s new venture into online digital marketing adds another layer to their journey, showing how they supplement their income while traveling. We wrap up with future plans and reflections on their five-year adventure, emphasizing the flexible, spontaneous, and enriching experiences that come with life on the road. Tune in to hear these inspiring stories and practical tips that celebrate the joy of exploring new places without being tied down.

https://www.digimarketmischief.com/
https://www.facebook.com/roundtuitnz

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Can eSIM technology transform your travel experience for good? In the 26th episode of "Travels with Jim and Rita," we celebrate a significant milestone by sharing the tech and travel hacks that have shaped our journey over the past six months. From the game-changing convenience of eSIMs and Global Entry passes to the luxury of airport lounges, we reveal the tools that have made our globe-trotting life more manageable. Also, get a sneak peek into our upcoming 70-day tour of Eastern Europe and join us in reminiscing about our near-miss adventures, from botched camper van rentals to unreliable ride-sharing apps.

Let's talk money! Financial planning can be a daunting task for traveling retirees, but we break it down by sharing our personal strategies that have kept us afloat. Discover how pet sitting through Trusted House Sitting keeps our accommodation costs near zero and how we've turned our house sale proceeds into a steady income through high-yield savings accounts. We also shed light on the challenges of managing rental properties from afar and the shifting dynamics of the housing market, underscoring the need for flexibility and careful planning in an unpredictable world.

Logistics can make or break long-term travel, and we’re not holding back on the nitty-gritty details. From the hassles of mail forwarding and credit card woes to the complexities of storing or selling household goods and vehicles, we share it all. Don't miss our reflections on navigating international ride-share services and our excitement for future travel plans. Plus, tune in for details about our appearance at the International Living Ultimate Go Overseas Boot Camp in Las Vegas this October. Come along for the ride as we celebrate our journey and look forward to what's next!

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Have you ever wondered how to travel the world on a tight budget while experiencing life-changing adventures? Join us as we chat with Laura Lisensky, a high school biology teacher and host of the "Travel Along with Laura" podcast, who shares her incredible journey from studying in Scotland to serving in the Peace Corps in Benin, West Africa, and beyond. Laura uncovers the myths around the cost of travel and offers insightful tips on how to explore places like Thailand and South America without breaking the bank. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of travel and the invaluable experiences it brings.

Laura's passion for travel reignited a dozen years after her South American expedition, leading her to embark on solo trips and start her own travel podcast. Hear about her empowering solo journey to Costa Rica, where she learned the nuances of solo travel and gathered practical advice to share with other adventurers. Laura's unique podcast style, which immerses listeners through authentic audio recordings, and her candid recount of a challenging family trip to Croatia underline the importance of preparation and adaptability in overcoming travel obstacles.

As we conclude, Laura reflects on her surreal solo adventure to Morocco post-COVID, offering a glimpse into the eerie yet captivating experience of traveling during Eid. We discuss how travel enriches our personal and professional lives, illustrated through captivating wildlife encounters in the Galapagos and thoughtful destination choices, like a memorable trip down the Mekong River in Laos. Join us for inspiring stories, practical travel tips, and a deeper understanding of why we travel not to escape life, but so that life does not escape us.

https://travelalongpodcast.buzzsprout.com/
https://www.patreon.com/travelalongpodcast/

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