Bon Voyage Besties: Travel and Friendship

Rosa and Rachel
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Places & Travel

Two Jersey girls, Rachel Miller and Rosa Castillo, share their love of travel, life, friendship, and everything in between. These travel experts share their best tips for traveling the world without quitting your job, discussing their favorite travel destinations, sharing friendship advice on the road and at home, laughing about travel fails and wins, and much much more. Come along for the ride and Bon Voyage Besties!

  1. 5d ago

    Episode 83: Berlin Travel Guide: Exploring German History, Opera & Underground Clubs with Emily Manthei

    Berlin is so much more than the Berlin Wall and legendary nightlife! In this episode of Bon Voyage Besties, we’re exploring the city’s fascinating history, creative culture, and rebellious spirit with Berlin-based filmmaker and travel writer Emily Manthei. We’re diving into Berlin’s surprising opera scene, the history and modern meaning of May Day, workers’ rights, the city’s Cold War legacy, and—of course—its legendary club culture. Emily also shares local insights and perspectives to help you experience Berlin beyond the typical tourist checklist. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking to see Berlin from a different perspective, this episode is packed with inspiration and insider tips. Follow Emily at @filmsbyemilymanthei and visit emilymanthei.com. Follow us on Instagram at @BonVoyageBesties and subscribe to our Substack, Bon Voyage Besties, for more travel stories, tips, and inspiration.

  2. Oct 23

    Episode 82: The Ultimate Guide to Philadelphia's Sandwich Scene with Mike Madaio

    Philadelphia is so much more than cheesesteaks! On this episode of Bon Voyage Besties, Rosa sits down with food and wine writer and author Mike Madaio to explore the city’s rich sandwich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and diverse food scene. Mike shares the inspiration behind his book, *A History of Philadelphia Sandwiches*, and explains how generations of immigrant communities, neighborhood pride, and incredible baking traditions have shaped Philly’s culinary identity. From the famous Pat’s versus Geno’s cheesesteak rivalry to Mike’s personal favorite, the roast pork sandwich with sharp provolone and bitter greens, this conversation is packed with delicious reasons to visit. Discover must-try hoagies, chicken cutlets, creative vegetarian sandwiches, international cheesesteak twists, and why good bread can make or break a sandwich. Beyond the food, Mike shares tips for exploring South Philly, the Italian Market, East Passyunk, and Reading Terminal Market, plus recommendations for unusual museums, public art, local festivals, and Philadelphia’s upcoming America 250 celebrations. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking for a fresh perspective on a familiar destination, this episode will inspire you to explore Philly beyond the tourist trail. Grab your appetite, bring some friends, and get ready to eat your way through Philadelphia. As Mike says, the best advice is simple: eat lots of sandwiches! Follow Mike on Instagram @lifeattable and Bon Voyage Besties @BonVoyageBesties

  3. Oct 16

    Episode 81: Costa Rica Slow Travel Guide: Local Experiences, Pura Vida, and Reinvention with Jen Rulon

    On this episode of Bon Voyage Besties, Rachel and Rosa chat with Jen Rulon, a midlife transformation coach, 15-time Ironman triathlete, author, and TEDx speaker who reinvented her life in Costa Rica after age 50. Jen shares how she transitioned from triathlon coaching to helping women navigate major life changes, and how a solo trip to Samara inspired her to leave the United States and embrace a slower, more intentional lifestyle. The conversation explores Costa Rica’s famous Pura Vida philosophy, which Jen describes as living with presence, enjoying the moment, and worrying less. She shares practical advice for first-time visitors, including navigating safety concerns, understanding travel times, budgeting realistically, and avoiding the temptation to squeeze too many destinations into one itinerary. Jen also explains why she chose Samara over more tourist-heavy destinations like Nosara, Tamarindo, and Santa Teresa. From spotting sloths, monkeys, dolphins, and sea turtles to discovering hidden beaches, local markets, family-run restaurants, and community-led tours, Jen encourages travelers to embrace authentic experiences and support local businesses. She also shares recommendations for exploring the region, including Playa Camaronal, and explains why flexibility is essential when traveling through Costa Rica. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical escape or contemplating a major life change, this episode is a reminder to stop overthinking, book the trip, and discover what happens when you slow down and embrace Pura Vida. Follow Jen @CoachJenRulon and follow Bon Voyage Besties @BonVoyageBesties

  4. Oct 9

    Episode 80: How Solo Travel Can Help You Process Grief with Chelsia Durkee

    In this heartfelt episode, Chelsia opens up about using travel as a path toward healing after experiencing personal loss. We explore how solo travel can create space to process grief, rebuild confidence, and reconnect with yourself. From personal stories to practical tips, this conversation offers an honest look at how stepping outside your comfort zone—and sometimes even leaving home—can become a powerful part of the healing journey. If you’ve ever wondered whether travel can help you find yourself again, this episode is for you.  Follow Chelsia on Instagram: @ChelsiaWrites And follow Bon Voyage Besties on social media: @BonVoyageBesties

  5. Oct 2

    Episode 79: How to Experience Tuscany Like a Local: Insider Tips from Vanessa Gordon

    Join Rosa and Rachel as they explore the magic of Tuscany with Vanessa Gordon, CEO of East End Taste. From charming hilltop towns and unforgettable meals to transportation tips and local experiences, this episode is your guide to making the most of a trip through one of Italy’s most beloved regions. Vanessa shares her insights on which Tuscan towns are worth visiting, how to experience the region beyond the major tourist stops, and where food lovers should focus their time. We also talk about the Italian approach to slow living, connecting with locals, finding the right accommodations, and exploring Tuscany without overspending. Plus, get practical advice for navigating the region, whether you’re renting a car or relying on other transportation, along with what to pack and which experiences deserve a spot on your itinerary. Whether you’re dreaming of your first Italian adventure or planning a return trip, this conversation is packed with ideas for experiencing Tuscany through its food, landscapes, culture, and people. Tune in for tips on hidden gems, culinary adventures, budget-friendly travel, and the memorable experiences that make Tuscany so special. Follow Vanessa at @VanessaPGordon on Instagram. Follow Bon Voyage Besties @BonVoyageBesties on Instagram and Substack.

  6. Sep 25

    Episode 78: A Local’s Guide to Montreal & Quebec Province with Mel Schaffer

    What if you don’t need more vacation time, but simply need to use the time you have more intentionally? On this episode of Bon Voyage Besties, Rosa and Rachel are joined by Mel Schaffer, founder of BRB Travel Blog, for a practical conversation about making travel work when you have a full-time job and limited PTO. With more than 20 years of experience living in Montreal and exploring Quebec, Mel shares smart strategies for maximizing vacation time, from combining holidays with weekends to taking strategic Fridays or Mondays off. We also talk about why day trips, staycations, and nearby weekend getaways absolutely count as travel, and why asking for more vacation time during salary negotiations might be worth considering. Then we head to Montreal! Mel shares what makes the city so special, from its bilingual and multicultural identity to its incredible food scene. We talk bagels, poutine, smoked meat, Mile End, the Plateau, Verdun, summer festivals, and hidden gems like Au Pied Du Courant. Mel also shares ideas for exploring beyond the city, including the Eastern Townships, Tadoussac, and Gaspésie, along with practical winter packing tips. Whether you’re planning a quick Montreal getaway or simply trying to fit more travel into a busy life, this episode is all about making the most of the time you have. Follow Mel @brbtravelblog and Follow Bon Voyage Besties @BonVoyageBesties on Social Media and Substack

  7. Sep 18

    Episode 77: Solo Female Travel in Underrated Destinations: Uzbekistan, India & Beyond with Flavia Cornejo

    In this episode of Bon Voyage Besties, Rosa and Rachel joined by Flavia, a Peruvian-American travel blogger and tour operator who empowers women—especially women of color—to travel the world with confidence. Flavia shares her journey into travel content creation and how her own experiences shaped her passion for helping women overcome travel fears and embrace solo adventures. We chat about some of Flavia’s favorite underrated destinations, including Uzbekistan and India, and the cultural experiences and local connections that make these places so special. She shares practical tips for navigating language barriers, staying safe while traveling solo, and handling the logistical challenges that can come with exploring unfamiliar places. Flavia also takes us behind the scenes of running successful travel tours for women and discusses how social media has transformed the way we discover destinations and find travel inspiration. From building confidence to embracing cultural curiosity, this conversation is packed with encouragement and practical advice for anyone ready to step outside their comfort zone and see more of the world. Follow Flavia at @latinatraveler and Bon Voyage Besties at @bonvoyagebesties. You can also find Bon Voyage Besties on Substack at https://substack.com/@bonvoyagebesties.

  8. Sep 11

    Episode 76: The Ultimate Toronto Travel Guide with Christopher Rudder

    Rachel and Rosa welcome Christopher Rudder, the award-winning creator behind Rudderless Travel, for a lively conversation about experiencing Toronto beyond the typical tourist checklist. Christopher shares what makes Toronto unique, from its laid-back personality and incredible diversity to the neighborhoods that give the city its distinct local identity. From Chinatown, Little Italy, Little Portugal, Little India, Koreatown, and Little Jamaica to arts districts and family-run businesses, Toronto offers travelers the chance to experience the world without leaving the city. The hosts explore Toronto attractions and experiences including the Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, Casa Loma, Toronto Islands, Graffiti Alley, the PATH, and the city’s iconic streetcars. Food is also a major theme, with Canadian favorites like poutine, peameal bacon, butter tarts, maple syrup, and bannock alongside Toronto’s creative fusion cuisine. Christopher also shares tips for connecting with Toronto’s immigrant communities and local culture, plus recommendations for day trips and weekend escapes to Niagara-on-the-Lake, Prince Edward County, Montreal, Ottawa, and beyond. If you want to experience Toronto like a local, this episode is your guide. Follow Christopher @rudderless_trvl and follow Bon Voyage Besties @BonVoyageBesties

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About

Two Jersey girls, Rachel Miller and Rosa Castillo, share their love of travel, life, friendship, and everything in between. These travel experts share their best tips for traveling the world without quitting your job, discussing their favorite travel destinations, sharing friendship advice on the road and at home, laughing about travel fails and wins, and much much more. Come along for the ride and Bon Voyage Besties!

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