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What do cobblestone streets, ornate architecture, and a surprise health scare have in common? They're all part of our unpredictable adventure through Eastern Europe! Join us, Jim and Rita, as we recount our travels from Warsaw to Vilnius and Riga. Our journey took an unexpected turn with a health challenge in Riga, but it didn't stop us from first exploring the city's vibrant history and culture. From the charming old towns and picturesque landscapes to the fascinating stories behind landmarks like Riga's House of the Black Heads, this episode is packed with unforgettable moments and insights. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just dreaming of your next trip, our stories offer a blend of inspiration, humor, and a reminder that travel is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

As we wrap up our holiday travels, we're excited to share our progress on establishing our U.S. home base while balancing our health and travel aspirations. Stay connected with us through our blog, YouTube channel, and Instagram for more detailed accounts and visuals of our adventures. Plus, we've got our books and audiobooks available for those who want to dive even deeper into our travel tales. Engage with us, share your own travel stories, and let's explore the world together. Whether you're tuning in for the scenic landscapes, cultural insights, or just a bit of travel escapism, there's something here for everyone.

Youtube Cello Video: https://youtu.be/5F_mkdMHE6U
Vilnius Photos: https://www.jimsantosbooks.com/page/photos-6/
Riga Photos: https://www.jimsantosbooks.com/page/photos-7/

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Ever wondered what life was really like behind the scenes at the US Senate? Picture this: a snowy evening in Washington DC, a bustling tech support subculture, and a cast of unforgettable characters like Rob and Becky. Join us as we pause our home renovation chaos to take you on a whimsical journey back to Jim's time as a senior network technician—a time filled with camaraderie, humorous insults, and a tale that captures the essence of the spirited Senate tech team. It's a story dubbed "Foolish Mortals," offering an amusing glimpse into Jim's upcoming tell-all book about his Senate days.

While our Eastern European escapades are temporarily on hold, we promise you laughter and nostalgia with this holiday special. From the basement of the Russell Building to the halls of power, Jim shares one of his proudest moments, offering a sneak peek into the unique world of Senate tech support. So, cozy up, because this episode promises to be a delightful distraction from the ongoing home renovations and a humorous highlight in our Travels with Jim and Rita.

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Join us, Jim and Rita, as we explore the decision to establish a home base in the U.S., balancing family ties and future surgeries while considering the allure of new experiences abroad. Listen in as we discuss whether leaving the country due to political reasons is truly the driving force for successful expats or if it's the promise of adventure that beckons. With fresh health updates, including a successful gallbladder surgery and some welcome insurance news, we set our sights on the warm climes of Portugal and Spain, all while advocating for the convenience and charm of Flixbus over traditional rail and air travel in Europe.

Our journey doesn't end there. We immerse ourselves in the rich history and vibrant culture of Krakow and Warsaw, sharing stories of Wawel Castle, bustling markets, and the unique ways Poland shows solidarity with Ukraine. Discover the beauty of Krakow's walkable streets and historic churches, and relive the unexpected health scare that struck during a Flixbus ride to Warsaw. Find out why our cozy Airbnb near the Madame Curie statue made our exploration of Warsaw even more memorable. We invite you to connect further with us through our blog and social media platforms, where you can find more insights, photographs, and travel stories. Whether you're planning your next adventure or simply love a good travel tale, there's something here for every wanderlust-filled heart.

ABBA Light/Fountain Show Link: https://youtu.be/57MZ6smdh3Q

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After a whirlwind journey through Eastern Europe, we found ourselves in an unexpected twist when Jim faced a serious health challenge in Latvia. Amidst these challenges, we hold onto our zest for travel, with hopeful plans for a springtime excursion to the UK and Ireland, cherishing the journeys yet to come.

A train ride from Berlin to Prague rekindled our love for these vibrant cities, despite past trips being clouded by illness. The marvels of Prague—its captivating architecture, historical richness, and unexpected dining adventures—captured our hearts, affirming its allure as one of the most stunning places we've explored. Our travels also took us to Budapest, where iconic landmarks like the Parliament Building and Fisherman's Bastion left their mark, even as reconstruction posed a few disappointments. Yet, the city's history and culture, from solemn memorials to lively festivals, enchanted us nonetheless.

Through our stories, shared on our blog and social channels, we aim to inspire you to embrace travel as a profound way to discover both the world and yourself. Engage with us through your questions and personal travel stories, as we continue to explore these mesmerizing destinations and beyond. Join us on this journey of exploration and discovery, and perhaps find your own inspiration to see the world anew.

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Ever wondered how a seemingly innocent meal could turn your dream vacation into a medical nightmare? Join Rita and me as we recount our wild ride through Eastern Europe that left us grappling with mysterious, severe pains striking at the worst possible moments. From the first alarming symptoms in Krakow to a dramatic ambulance ride in Riga, our journey became an unexpected test of endurance and adaptability. You'll hear all about our encounters with healthcare professionals in a foreign land and the surprising efficiency of Latvia's emergency response system.

Experience the highs and lows of our trip, where every city brought new beauty and unforeseen challenges. As we navigated unknown territories and healthcare systems, Rita's unwavering support and the swift actions of local medics were crucial. Tune in for a candid and gripping tale that will make you question what you would do in a similar situation. Whether you see us as bold adventurers or think we might be a bit nuts, this episode promises to keep you riveted from start to finish.

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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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