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In this episode of Where Next? Travel with Kristen and Carol, we return to Mongolia—this time through the eyes of Tungso, a Mongolian native now living in the U.S. She shares a deeply personal and vibrant portrait of her home country, from nomadic life in the northern mountains to the unique blend of traditional and modern living in Ulaanbaatar. We talk about everything from shamanism and Soviet influence to the fierce independence of Mongolian women, the simplicity of daily life, and the warmth of a culture where community and hospitality still reign.

Tungso also gives us a peek into Mongolia’s biggest holidays, including Naadam with its wrestling, horse racing, and archery, and how New Year’s is celebrated with sparkle, family, and salty milk tea. She reflects on how her upbringing shaped her values around minimalism, resilience, and pride in heritage. Whether you're curious about taking the Trans-Siberian train to Ulaanbaatar or just want to understand why Mongolia is unlike anywhere else, this episode will expand your perspective and leave you longing for a visit.

Map of Mongolia

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Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
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Journey through central Japan with Miyuki, a licensed Japanese travel guide, who unveils the secrets of this stunning region nestled between Tokyo and Osaka. Discover how Japan's superb public transportation system can whisk you away to hidden gems like Hamamatsu, known for its lush tea fields and vibrant musical instrument manufacturing scene, and Nagoya, a city that stands as a beacon of manufacturing prowess and samurai heritage. 

Planning a trip to Japan is no small feat, but fear not—our episode is packed with expert insights to help you every step of the way. From unique accommodation options like cozy ryokans and budget-friendly business hotels to the nuances of Japan's effortless public transport, we've got you covered. Explore the charm of lesser-known spots like Hikone, famed for its original wooden castle and breathtaking gardens, and discover the best times of year to experience their natural beauty. 

Whether you're seeking surfing adventures in Kanagawa and Chiba or practical travel tips like using IC cards for convenience, this episode is brimming with valuable information. 

If any listeners are interested in visiting Japan and want personalized guidance on travel planning, please connect with Miyuki on Instagram @japan.experts.

You can also find Miyuki at her website Miyuki  Seguchi.

Her podcast is Japan Experts with Miyuki Seguchi.

You can also download her free Japan Travel Guide - The 7 Steps to Creating Your Unique Immersive Experience.

Map of Japan

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Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

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Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

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In this episode, we explore Piemonte in Northern Italy with our guest, Barbara Boyle, author of Pinch Me. Situated at the foot of the Alps, this region blends Italian and French influences, creating a unique cultural experience. Barbara shares her insights on Piemonte’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and lesser-known travel gems. From rolling vineyards to the peaceful Italian lake district, this destination offers a perfect balance of tradition, natural beauty, and a relaxed way of life.

Piemonte is an ideal escape for those seeking simplicity, authenticity, and breathtaking scenery. Here, you can savor life’s small pleasures—enjoying local wines, tending a garden, or embracing the region’s warm hospitality. Whether you’re considering an extended stay or just want a glimpse into Italy’s understated elegance, this episode is your guide to experiencing the true essence of Piemonte.

You can find Barbara Boyle on Instagram at @barbaraannboyle10

and at her website. 

You can join her Substack here. 

You learn more about her book, Pinch Me: Waking Up in a 300-Year-Old Italian Farmhouse here. 

Map of Italy

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Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

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Unlock the secrets of the Maldives with our guest, David Brodie, as we explore this mesmerizing tropical paradise. Discover how the Maldives, a stunning collection of over 1,100 islands, offers a wide range of experiences from lavish luxury resorts to budget-friendly stays on vibrant local islands. David uncovers the evolving landscape of tourism in the region, where travelers can now experience the local culture and breathtaking beauty without breaking the bank.

Our conversation highlights the distinct contrasts between local islands, with their rich cultural norms, and the high-end resort islands that often cater to international tourists.

Finally, we explore the spectrum of accommodations available, from affordable stays on islands like Maafushi to the indulgent luxury of overwater bungalows at places like Kagi Maldives. Learn about planning your stay with practical tips on logistics, seasonal pricing, and choosing the right island experience for your travel style.

You can find David Brodie at the Voyascape Network

Map of Maldives

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Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

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Kat Medina, takes us on an unforgettable journey through her life-altering experiences in Ecuador and other parts of South America. A spontaneous move to Loja during the 2009 recession led her to co-found a web design company that fuels her passion for travel and writing.

Discover the secrets of budget travel as Kat shares her insights on exploring South America affordably. From thrilling micro-bus rides to the cultural warmth of Colombian and Chilean towns, she paints a vibrant picture of life lived in the embrace of local communities. The picturesque towns of Malacatos and Vilcabamba come alive through Kat's vivid storytelling, highlighting the natural beauty and longevity that define these unique locales. Her tales reveal how immersing oneself in a local lifestyle can lead to profound cultural insights without breaking the bank.

Ecuador's rich ecosystems and cultural tapestry unfold as Kat guides us through diverse landscapes filled with natural wonders and burgeoning infrastructure. From the birdwatcher's paradise of Parque Nacional Por el Carpus to the heart-pounding taxi rides through the Andes, she captures the essence of Ecuador's evolving charm. Our exploration also embraces the country's culinary delights and cultural traditions, where local flavors like umitas and empanadas de viento tantalize the taste buds, and the vibrant music scene pulses with reggaeton and Quechua folk rhythms. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of adventure or the allure of Ecuador's laid-back lifestyle, Kat's experiences promise to inspire your next travel escapade.

Map of Ecuador

Kat's Book: The Joys of Jet Lag: How to Use a Traveler’s Mindset to Not be an A-Hole in Daily Life

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Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

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Ever wondered what makes Sri Lanka a must-visit tropical paradise? Join us as we uncover the island's secrets with our insightful guest, Frank, a native of this exotic country rich in culture, history and nature. Growing up amidst lush greenery, sunny beaches, and the cooler hill country, Frank offers an insider's perspective on Sri Lanka's unique charm. Known as the 'Hawaii for Europeans,' this destination boasts a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural diversity. Learn about its tallest peak, Pidurutalagala, and understand why this island’s independence from India has shaped its distinct identity, making Sri Lanka a dream for any adventurer or nature lover.

Frank takes us through the vibrant cultural mosaic of Sri Lanka, where Sinhalese, Buddhist, and European influences merge to create a unique society. From the world-famous Ceylon tea to local customs and sweetened beverages, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness that makes Sri Lanka so compelling.

We also explore the hidden gems waiting for travelers such as Kandy's Temple of the Tooth and the iconic Sigiriya, Sri Lanka’s ‘Lion Rock’. Frank shares his favorite spots for wildlife encounters, including the majestic elephants, and recounts the island's renowned hospitality. Whether it’s enjoying delicious Sri Lankan cuisine, finding the best scuba diving spots, or surfing at Arugam Bay, this episode is your gateway to discovering the unparalleled allure of Sri Lanka.

Map of Sri Lanka

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Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

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What if a simple relocation could completely transform your life? Meet Steve Hoffman, who took his family from Minnesota to a small village in the Languedoc region of Southern France and discovered a world of cultural immersion and personal growth. Through a chance encounter with an Irishman, Steve and his family were gifted a six-month stay in a picturesque setting far from the beaten path. This episode shares Steve's incredible journey as he recounts how the adventure tested their adaptability, yet ultimately enriched their lives, especially when they joined the local grape harvest and immersed in the vibrant food and wine culture.

Get ready to explore the nuances of Mediterranean living, where Steve's family embraced the rhythm of village life, forming deep connections and discovering culinary delights. From savoring simple yet robust flavors like a baked white fish fillet in a tomato, onion, garlic, and olive sauce, to navigating daily life without a village butcher or fishmonger, we discuss how their immersion in local traditions reshaped their understanding of French cuisine. Steve also delves into his career transformation from tax preparation and real estate to food writing, inspired by this profound experience.

Join us as we reflect on how living in Languedoc was a turning point for their family, offering unique insights into the Mediterranean lifestyle. Steve shares stories of personal growth, his children's newfound proficiency in French, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their future plans. Discover how the enchanting charm of Southern France left a lasting imprint on their lives, fueling their passion for travel, food, and cultural exploration. With tales of village life and local music enriching the narrative, this episode is a testament to the beauty of embracing new experiences.

Map of Béziers

You can find Steve Hoffman's website here.
Steve's LinkedIn here.
Steve's Instagram here.
Steve's book - A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France 

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

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Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee.

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Join us as we chat with avid traveler Ella Parlor, who turned her solo honeymoon in Sydney into an ecological escapade in Cairns. After a lackluster cultural outing in Sydney, Ella shares how a retired travel guide and Airbnb host helped her discover the wonders of the Daintree Rainforest, revealing its stunning beauty and deep significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the Kuku Yalanji tribe for over 50,000 years. Discussing the challenges of trekking through this remote yet historically rich area, we underscore the importance of guided tours for ensuring safety and cultural respect. 

You can find Ella Parlor's website here.
Ella's LinkedIn here.
Ella's Instagram here.
Ella's YouTube channel, Eavesdrop with Ella, here.
Ella's TikTok, ellayourbella, here.

Map of Daintree Rainforest

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Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee.

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Imagine a city where you can walk amongst skyscrapers one moment and spot a giraffe the next. Our guest, Vincent, fresh from a two-month adventure in Nairobi, takes us on an extraordinary journey through Kenya, sharing firsthand experiences from his upbringing near Lake Victoria to his current life in the Bay Area. We explore Kenya’s diverse tribes and educational system, and the unique blend of English and Kiswahili that colors daily conversations.

This episode shines a light on Kenya's rich cultural traditions and culinary delights, especially during Christmas. Discover how Kenyans celebrate the festive season with grand feasts and family gatherings, rather than focusing on gift-giving. We also discuss the regional culinary treats you can't miss, from succulent tilapia to the freshest coastal seafood. And if you're a travel enthusiast, our guest's tips on the best times to visit Mombasa, Lamu, and Malindi will be invaluable.

Finally, we delve into the vibrant sports culture and cosmopolitan lifestyle of modern Nairobi. Learn about the city's affordability compared to places like the Bay Area, the innovative mobile payment system M-Pesa, and the must-visit spots like Nairobi National Park and the Masai Mara National Reserve. Plus, get a taste of Kenya's sweet side with desserts like mandazi and mahamri, and explore the nation's music traditions that range from the ancient Nyatiti to contemporary Afrobeats. Tune in for a rich, multifaceted look at Kenyan life, culture, and travel that promises to both inform and inspire.

Map of Kenya

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Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

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Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

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Join us as we celebrate our three-year anniversary! In this episode Kristen and Carol step away from our usual interviews to share personal stories, passions, and dreams. Carol reminisces about her favorite past residences, from the chilly beauty of Minnesota to the majestic mountains of Colorado, while basking in the pleasant Michigan weather and indulging in her love for baseball. Kristen shares her excitement for an upcoming Girl Scouts backpacking adventure and our mutual love for slow travel and the great outdoors, reflecting on how our podcast has become a cherished part of our lives.

Have you ever tried wake surfing? We dive into the exhilarating world of wake surfing and the meticulous preparations for competitions like Worlds. We discuss the serene control of lake conditions versus the unpredictable ocean waves and our dreams of owning a lakeside property. From horseback riding to dirt biking, we share personal anecdotes that highlight our joy in embracing new hobbies, all while reflecting on our career paths and the ultimate pursuit of financial independence to focus on community support and passion projects. It's a celebration of personal growth, new experiences, and building a life filled with passion.

The world is vast, and our love for exploring it knows no bounds. We take you on a journey through Japan, Thailand, and Belize, emphasizing the importance of immersing oneself in local cultures. Learn how to balance remote work with true exploration and get practical tips for affordable travel arrangements. Whether it's staying with friends or finding cost-effective destinations, we share our insights on making the most out of your travels. Plus, don’t forget to support our podcast by following, rating, and reviewing us on your app, and join our community on Instagram at "Where Next Podcast." Thank you for being a part of our adventure!

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

View all listening options: https://wherenextpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee.