Send us a text

Imagine pulling your sailboat into a tiny Greek fishing village where tourists rarely venture, dining at a local taverna where fishermen gather, and experiencing authentic Mediterranean life beyond the postcard views. For travel writer and photographer June Russell-Chamberlain, this freedom to discover hidden gems represents the magic of charter sailing.

"The freedom to choose where you go and how long you stay," June explains when asked what draws her to this unique form of travel. Unlike conventional tourism or even cruise ships, sailing allows travelers to linger in places they love, adjust plans based on discoveries, and access coastal communities untouched by mass tourism.

June's sailing journey began unexpectedly when her husband Mike announced his sudden interest in sailing, purchasing what she describes as "the fastest, tippiest, craziest little boat" – hardly an ideal beginner vessel. Despite this challenging introduction, June gradually developed her sailing skills on Oregon's Fern Ridge Reservoir before venturing into international waters. After obtaining necessary certifications through sailing organizations, they began chartering boats in destinations like the Greek Islands and Croatia's stunning coastline.

What makes charter sailing special isn't just the destinations, but the quality of experiences. When you sail into small Mediterranean fishing villages, you encounter locals who are genuinely interested in meeting visitors – a stark contrast to tourist-saturated locations. "You actually get a feel of the culture," June notes. "It's the authenticity that you get to see when you pull up to a fishing village and spend the night there."

For those intrigued but inexperienced, June offers reassurance: charter companies worldwide provide captains who can navigate and teach, while sailing schools offer live-aboard courses combining instruction with the experience of boat life. Whether you're looking for adventure, authentic cultural experiences, or simply the joy of charting your own course, charter sailing offers a travel experience that reveals destinations layer by layer, creating memories impossible to replicate through conventional tourism.

Instagram @junerussellchamberlin

Website http://www.junerussellchamberlin.com

Support the show

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2292506/supporters/new
https://www.jimsantosbooks.com
http://jimsantos.net
https://www.instagram.com/jimsantosblog
https://www.youtube.com/@jimsantos508
[email protected]

Send us a text

What happens when a couple of American retirees tackle the United Kingdom, complete with driving on the "wrong" side of narrow roads, navigating London's famous tube system, and an unexpected series of medical adventures? Join us as we share the highs and lows of our journey through Britain.

London welcomed us with its iconic landmarks and efficient public transportation. Armed with the TFL Go app, we explored Westminster, the British Museum, and vibrant Camden Town while mastering the art of "tap on, tap off" and the Tube. Despite our comically tiny hotel room where the bed touched three walls, we found ourselves enchanted by the city's parks, architecture, and pub culture.

Our adventure shifted gears—literally—when we rented a manual transmission car in Oxford to explore the Cotswolds. Picture this: shifting with the left hand while navigating narrow country roads bordered by vine-covered stone walls, all while trying to remember to stay on the left side! The countryside rewarded our efforts with extraordinary natural beauty and villages that seemed frozen in time, from Burford's ancient church to Bourton-on-the-Water's stream-crossed pathways.

The journey northward took us through Bath's Roman history, Manchester's surprising vibrancy, and finally to Scotland, where Edinburgh's castle perched dramatically on volcanic rock and Glasgow offered a blend of industrial heritage and cultural attractions. Throughout our travels, we encountered unexpected highlights, like discovering the Royal Yacht Britannia's fascinating history and enjoying tea with scones aboard this floating piece of British history.

Not everything went according to plan—a sketchy Airbnb in Glasgow sent us scrambling for alternative accommodations, and persistent respiratory issues led to three separate visits to British medical facilities. Yet these challenges revealed the efficiency and kindness of the UK healthcare system, while adding those unpredictable elements that transform a vacation into a true adventure.

Have you explored the UK beyond London? What was your favorite discovery? Follow our continuing adventures at jimsantosbooks.com and share your own travel stories with us by emailing [email protected].

UK ETA - https://uketa.com

Support the show

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2292506/supporters/new
https://www.jimsantosbooks.com
http://jimsantos.net
https://www.instagram.com/jimsantosblog
https://www.youtube.com/@jimsantos508
[email protected]

Send us a text

What would it take to stop you from exploring the world? For Penny Zubula, even total blindness couldn't dampen her wanderlust. This remarkable travel writer navigates foreign countries with her photographer husband Simon and guide dog Splendid—proving that disabilities don't have to limit adventure.

Penny's journey from Jerusalem-born, Montreal-raised TV host to acclaimed travel writer showcases an extraordinary life dedicated to experiencing new cultures. Through her website "Six Legs Will Travel," she creates vivid, sensory-rich travel narratives that go far beyond visual descriptions, breaking barriers for travelers with disabilities while inspiring everyone to see the world differently.

The conversation reveals fascinating insights into traveling internationally with a service animal—from the relatively straightforward EU requirements to the more complex regulations of Japan and Israel. Penny and Simon share their strategies for selecting destinations, with special appreciation for Holland America cruises that accommodate service animals expertly. They've developed a unique approach to cultural immersion by volunteering at language schools across Europe, where they help locals practice English while gaining authentic experiences themselves.

When asked what advice she'd give hesitant travelers, Penny's wisdom rings clear: "If you waste those opportunities, the person you hurt most is yourself." Her adventures—rock climbing, hot air ballooning, and exploring remote destinations—demonstrate that limitations are often self-imposed rather than insurmountable barriers. What's your excuse for not exploring the world? Join us to discover how this inspiring trio is redefining what it means to truly experience travel through all senses.

Penny's Website: https://sixlegswilltravel.com/ and https://muckrack.com/penny_zibula

Simon's Photos: https://photos.myeclecticimages.com/ and https://myeclecticimages.com/

Penny's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sixlegswilltravel

Simon's Instagram: https://instagram.com/myeclecticimages

Support the show

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2292506/supporters/new
https://www.jimsantosbooks.com
http://jimsantos.net
https://www.instagram.com/jimsantosblog
https://www.youtube.com/@jimsantos508
[email protected]

Send us a text

Fifty episodes in, and we're still discovering what retirement travel truly means to us. After a health challenge forced us to pivot from our original three-year international adventure, we've established a new rhythm – a home base in Tennessee with 6-9 months of global exploration annually. Our latest journey began with a two-week exploration of Portugal and Spain that revealed surprising preferences and unexpected gems.

The adventure started somewhat roughly – an overnight transatlantic flight with a screaming baby, condensation-soaked windows in our Lagos Airbnb, and a missed bus in Portugal. Yet these small hiccups faded against the backdrop of magnificent experiences. While the Algarve coast offered postcard-perfect beauty, we discovered something profound: after years living on Ecuador's Pacific shores, we've evolved beyond beach resort destinations.

Spain delivered the most delightful surprise of this leg. Seville captivated us with its walkable streets, vibrant culture, and extraordinary depth of history. We wandered ancient Jewish quarters where streets barely accommodate a single person, dined in a restaurant operating since 1386, and experienced authentic flamenco paired with mouthwatering tapas. The grandeur of the Cathedral housing Columbus' remains contrasted wonderfully with the world's largest wooden structure, the Parasol, offering 360-degree city views.

Lisbon challenged us with hills that would make San Francisco blush, yet rewarded our efforts with hidden treasures like the unassuming Santa Catarina Cathedral – modest outside, breathtaking within. At the communal tables of Time Out Market, we shared meals with honeymooners and, remarkably, fellow Tennesseans from just miles away from our home. A ferry ride to Trafaria revealed a glimpse of what local Portuguese life could offer away from tourist centers.

Our journey continues next episode as we venture to the British Isles, but this first segment taught us valuable lessons about what we truly seek in our traveling retirement. Sometimes the most memorable experiences come not from famous landmarks but from wrong turns, local connections, and places that weren't even on our original itinerary.

What secret corners of Portugal and Spain have you discovered? What unexpected destinations have captured your heart? We'd love to hear your stories at [email protected] as we continue redefining retirement through meaningful exploration.

Support the show

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2292506/supporters/new
https://www.jimsantosbooks.com
http://jimsantos.net
https://www.instagram.com/jimsantosblog
https://www.youtube.com/@jimsantos508
[email protected]

Send us a text

Travel writer Linda McCarley joins Jim and Rita to share her remarkable journey from childhood trips to Scotland through her recent decision to purchase a villa in Tuscany. Born in Canada to Scottish parents, Linda's travel adventures began at just three years old, planting seeds for a lifelong passion that would eventually lead her to Italy.

With refreshing candor, Linda reveals how her approach to travel evolved from standard tourism to meaningful cultural immersion—a shift that intensified when she became a travel writer during the pandemic. "The more we traveled, the more we did not want to be tourists," she explains, describing how writing pushed her to research destinations more deeply and seek experiences away from the crowds.

Her story of unexpectedly purchasing a 1920s villa in Barga (considered "new" by Italian standards) offers listeners a glimpse into the realities of overseas property ownership, complete with bureaucratic delays and renovation plans. Linda's recent five-week language immersion in Lucca provides practical insights for anyone considering similar adventures—from the moment she began thinking in Italian to participating in cultural excursions that included Carnival celebrations and food outings.

Throughout our conversation, Linda shares genuine recommendations for lesser-known Italian destinations like Arezzo and Camogli that offer authentic experiences away from tourist crowds. Her description of walking ancient streets where buildings predate the founding of America reminds us why European travel continues to captivate our imaginations.

Whether you're dreaming of your own Italian villa, planning extended travel abroad, or simply looking to experience destinations more authentically, Linda's story offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. Follow her journey at lindagotravelwriter.com and let her experiences guide your next travel adventure.

Website - https://lindagotravelwriter.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lindafunaymccarley/

Support the show

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2292506/supporters/new
https://www.jimsantosbooks.com
http://jimsantos.net
https://www.instagram.com/jimsantosblog
https://www.youtube.com/@jimsantos508
[email protected]

Send us a text

Curious about cruise vacations but not sure where to start? Veteran cruiser Babs Dearmond joins us to unpack the fascinating world of cruise travel - from Caribbean beach-hopping to sophisticated global exploration.

Babs shares her journey from first-time cruiser seeking winter escape to seasoned traveler who's sailed the Mediterranean, European rivers, and Asian waters. What began with a mother-daughter Caribbean adventure uncovered a passion for this unique travel style that combines luxury, convenience, and discovery.

The conversation reveals cruise travel's surprising advantages: the freedom of disconnecting while surrounded by endless blue water, the efficiency of seeing multiple destinations without constant packing and unpacking, and the ability to "sample" places like Santorini, Jerusalem, and Pompeii to determine which deserve deeper exploration. Babs recounts walking the ancient streets of Pompeii and discovering unexpected gems like Turkey while deciding Egypt wasn't quite her style - all from the comfort of her floating hotel.

We dive into practical considerations too - understanding cruise pricing beyond the advertised rates, navigating gratuities and beverage packages, comparing accommodation options, and finding entertainment that matches your preferences. Babs unveils the secret of repositioning cruises that offer transoceanic journeys at half the price without the jetlag of flying.

Whether you're considering your first voyage or looking to expand your cruise horizons, this episode provides insider perspective on using these floating resorts to see the world without worrying about foreign currencies, language barriers, or transportation logistics. Ready to discover if cruise travel might be your next great adventure? Listen now and start planning your escape on the high seas.

Support the show

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2292506/supporters/new
https://www.jimsantosbooks.com
http://jimsantos.net
https://www.instagram.com/jimsantosblog
https://www.youtube.com/@jimsantos508
[email protected]

Send us a text

What's driving more and more women to travel solo or join women-only travel groups? This episode dives deep into the transformative power of travel with Sonja Thayer, founder of Rom-Soul Escapes, who specializes in creating women-focused retreats in Italy and Greece.

Sonja shares her journey from backpacking through Europe in the 1990s to creating curated travel experiences that combine wellness practices with deep cultural immersion. She explains why retreat-style travel provides the perfect balance of adventure and support, especially for women taking their first international trips or those seeking a break from caregiving responsibilities.

We explore how leaving behind the familiar forces us to become more present and aware, creating the perfect conditions for personal transformation. From making pasta in multi-generational family homes to painting watercolors with local artists, these authentic experiences connect travelers to both themselves and the cultures they visit in profound ways.

The conversation tackles common travel fears and how speaking them aloud often reveals them as less formidable than imagined. Sonja explains why she believes travel makes us "better humans, better stewards of the earth" by revealing our fundamental connectedness despite cultural differences.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or someone who's dreamed of exploring the world but hesitated to take that first step, this episode offers inspiration and practical wisdom about how supported group travel can open doors to life-changing experiences. Ready to fill your cup with the sights, tastes and transformative power of travel? Listen now and discover how the journey beyond your comfort zone might be exactly what you need.

Website - https://www.rom-soulescapes.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rom.soulescapes

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/romsoulescapes

If anyone would like to contact Sonja directly - [email protected] 

Support the show

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2292506/supporters/new
https://www.jimsantosbooks.com
http://jimsantos.net
https://www.instagram.com/jimsantosblog
https://www.youtube.com/@jimsantos508
[email protected]

Send us a text

What happens when you combine a passion for travel, a gift for storytelling, and a heart for helping others overcome their deepest struggles? You get Lori Bruton, our fascinating guest who shares her remarkable journey from trauma to transformation.

Lori opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped her path as an author, travel writer, speaker, and breakthrough coach. Her story begins with childhood road trips that sparked her love for exploration and continues through personal challenges that nearly broke her spirit. With raw honesty, she reveals how these experiences led her to develop a unique coaching approach that addresses trauma stored at the cellular level—going beyond conventional mindset techniques she describes as merely "spray paint on rust."

Her adventures have taken her swimming with dolphins and flying on private jets to the Bahamas, despite once being so terrified of flying she avoided planes for twenty years. Through essential oils, determination, and courage, she conquered those fears and now helps others break through their own limitations. Particularly poignant is her discussion about traveling with mobility challenges—a topic many avoid but one that affects countless wanderers worldwide.

For aspiring writers, Lori offers practical insights into breaking into freelance travel writing, crafting case studies (customer success stories), and using personal newsletters to connect authentically with readers. Her journey from writing personalized poems for her son's teachers to publishing books with forewords by renowned motivational speaker Les Brown demonstrates how passion and perseverance can transform dreams into reality.

Ready to break through your own barriers and embrace adventure? Subscribe now and join our community of travelers seeking not just to see the world, but to find themselves along the way.

Website: http://loribruton.com

Email: [email protected]

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/loribrutonbiz

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/loribrutonbiz

Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/loribrutonbiz

Newsletter: https://substack.com/@lettersfromlori

And more: https://linktr.ee/thelorifactor

Support the show

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2292506/supporters/new
https://www.jimsantosbooks.com
http://jimsantos.net
https://www.instagram.com/jimsantosblog
https://www.youtube.com/@jimsantos508
[email protected]

Send us a text

Roy McGinnis and Julie Tallman return to the podcast with exciting news – they've officially committed to building a retirement home in Panama's Azuero Peninsula. After their initial exploratory visit left them enchanted with the rural charm of Petasi, they returned for two weeks to confirm their decision and put down a deposit on property in an expat development.

Their journey through Panama reveals a country of surprising contrasts. Panama City dazzled them with its ultramodern skyline (most buildings less than 25 years old), exceptional safety, and rich cultural experiences from the historic old town to the bustling fish market. Meanwhile, Pedasi captured their hearts with its small-town atmosphere where locals greet passersby from their porches with friendly "buenos," reminding them of American small towns from decades past.

What stands out most in their story is the authenticity they've encountered. "We're getting used to the fact that most people are just very genuine," Julie notes, describing how refreshing it is to experience straightforward interactions without the guardedness so common back home. This extends to their experiences with fellow expats and even their builder – an Israeli man coincidentally named Roy who has earned a stellar reputation for quality and integrity.

The couple shares fascinating insights into the practical aspects of their international move – from visa considerations to property ownership structures, from the surprising convenience of the Panama City airport to the unexpected challenges of quality household goods. Their timeline has them completing construction by August 2026, with a permanent move to follow once they sell properties and wind down work commitments in the States.

Whether you're considering a similar retirement adventure or simply curious about life abroad, Roy and Julie's candid conversation offers a window into how two Americans navigated the complex decisions involved in building a new life in Central America. Their excitement is contagious as they envision fishing trips, horseback riding, and exploring every corner of their future home country.

Support the show

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2292506/supporters/new
https://www.jimsantosbooks.com
http://jimsantos.net
https://www.instagram.com/jimsantosblog
https://www.youtube.com/@jimsantos508
[email protected]

Send us a text

Our podcast episode takes you on an informative journey through the ups and downs of travel life as Jim and Rita explore resilience in the face of unexpected health challenges. Discover their adventures that led them back to the U.S. after a critical health scare in Latvia and learn how they’ve adapted their plans to embrace a balanced lifestyle that accommodates health and travel. With honesty and playfulness, they share detailed insights into establishing a home base in Tennessee, all while keeping their passion for travel alive.

Listeners will gain valuable tips on planning extended trips, utilizing travel points for significant savings, and the necessity of flexible travel arrangements. They dive deep into the realities facing travelers of all ages, discussing how health considerations alter travel plans and emphasize the importance of having safety nets like travel insurance. 

With their sights set on future travels to Ireland and Spain, Jim and Rita inspire with their shared passion for exploration and the adventures that still await them. Their charming chemistry and relatable anecdotes make this episode not just informative but also heartwarming. We invite you to tune in, subscribe, and join the conversation surrounding the beauty and challenge of embracing a life on the move! Don't miss out—what's the next destination on your travel list? Let us know and start planning!

Support the show

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2292506/supporters/new
https://www.jimsantosbooks.com
http://jimsantos.net
https://www.instagram.com/jimsantosblog
https://www.youtube.com/@jimsantos508
[email protected]