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. 20h ago

    Episode 74: How to Walk the Camino de Santiago: Routes, Costs, and Expert Tips with Colleen Sims

    Have you ever dreamed of walking the Camino de Santiago but wondered if you were fit enough, had enough time, or knew where to begin? In this episode of Bon Voyage Besties, Rachel and Rosa chat with Colleen Sims, an English traveler living in France, who shares how surviving cancer inspired her to take on one of the world's most famous pilgrimages. What started as a personal challenge became a life-changing journey filled with resilience, healing, and unexpected connections. Colleen shares everything first-time pilgrims should know before planning a Camino de Santiago adventure. We discuss the different Camino routes, how to choose the best one for your travel style, what it costs to walk the Camino, what to pack, and how to prepare both physically and mentally. She also explains why you don't need to be an experienced hiker—or even especially athletic—to complete the journey. We also dive into the incredible sense of community that makes the Camino so special. From meeting fellow pilgrims from around the world to discovering the joy of slowing down, Colleen explains why the experience is about much more than reaching Santiago. Along the way, we talk about solo female travel, overcoming fear and self-doubt, managing expectations, and embracing the unexpected moments that make the pilgrimage so meaningful. Whether you're actively planning your first Camino, looking for practical Camino de Santiago tips, or simply searching for travel inspiration, this episode is packed with helpful advice and heartfelt stories. Tune in to discover why millions of people have walked the Camino—and why taking that very first step could change your life. Follow Colleen at @thenwewalked. Follow us on Instagram and Substack: @bonvoyagebesties.

  2. Aug 14

    Episode 73: Croatia Uncovered: Authentic Experiences and Travel Tips with Emese Maczko

    Join Rosa and Rachel for an inspiring conversation with Emese Maczko, a Hungarian travel writer and photographer who has spent most of her summers in Croatia since 1995. Having witnessed the country's remarkable post-war rebirth, Emese fell in love with its welcoming people, historic towns, and incredible cuisine. Drawing on more than 20 years of firsthand experience, she shares why skipping the all-inclusive resorts in favor of authentic, local hospitality leads to a far richer Croatian adventure. In this episode, you'll discover hidden gems, cultural insights, foodie recommendations, and practical tips for experiencing Croatia beyond the typical tourist trail. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to explore more deeply, Emese's expert advice will help you connect with the heart and soul of this beautiful destination. Be sure to follow Bon Voyage Besties on social media for more travel inspiration, and connect with Emese on Instagram @emesemaczko.

  3. Aug 7

    Episode 72: Luxembourg Beyond the Guidebooks: Insider Travel Tips with Kateryna Topol

    In this episode of Bon Voyage Besties, Rachel and Rosa discover why Luxembourg deserves a spot on every traveler’s European bucket list with travel expert Kateryna. Often overlooked in favor of its larger neighbors, Luxembourg is packed with fairytale castles, charming villages, scenic vineyards, and a fascinating blend of cultures. Kateryna shares what makes this small country so memorable, from its striking architecture and beautifully designed cities to the rich history woven into its medieval fortresses and UNESCO-listed landmarks. We also explore Luxembourg’s renowned wine region, highlighting local varietals worth trying, as well as the country’s vibrant seasonal festivals and cultural traditions. Whether you're planning your first visit or simply looking for an underrated European destination, you'll also pick up practical travel tips on getting around, the best times to visit, and how to make the most of your adventure. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that proves great things really do come in small packages. You can find Kateryna at @Katerryna on Instagram. Follow us on Instagram and Substack: @bonvoyagebesties

  4. Jul 31

    Episode 71: The Ultimate Sicily Travel Guide: Hidden Gems, Authentic Cuisine & Insider Tips with Sarah Murdoch

    Dreaming of Italy? Join us as we journey to the heart of the Mediterranean — the enchanting island of Sicily — with travel expert Sarah Murdoch, founder of Adventures with Sarah. With more than 26 years of experience as a tour guide and travel journalist, including years working with Rick Steves Travel, Sarah shares her insider tips for discovering Sicily beyond the typical tourist trail. From charming villages and hidden gems to authentic cuisine and unforgettable local experiences, she reveals how to experience the island like a true traveler. In this episode, we explore Sicily’s must-see towns, underrated Italian destinations worth adding to your itinerary, the customs and traditions that help you navigate Italy with confidence, and Sarah’s best packing tips for creating a smoother, stress-free journey. Whether you’re planning a Sicilian adventure or simply dreaming about your next Italian escape, this episode will inspire you to explore Italy with curiosity, confidence, and an open mind — uncovering the stories, flavors, and experiences that make travel truly unforgettable. Connect with Sarah:
 https://adventureswithsarah.net https://www.instagram.com/adventureswithsarahmurdoch
https://adventureswithsarah.substack.com Follow Bon Voyage Besties:
https://www.instagram.com/BonVoyageBesties https://bonvoyagebesties.substack.com If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow, leave a review, and share it with a fellow traveler!

  5. Jul 24

    Episode 70: How to Travel Japan Solo with Confidence: Expert Tips from Sequoia Armstrong

    You know how much we love Japan — and today we’re diving into one of our favorite topics: exploring Japan as a solo female traveler! Join Rosa, Rachel, and special guest Sequoia Armstrong as they share their experiences, insights, and practical tips for planning a safe, meaningful, and unforgettable adventure through Japan. In this episode, we chat about what it’s really like traveling solo in Japan, including safety tips for female travelers, navigating cultural norms and etiquette, finding the best accommodations, and ways to support women-owned businesses while exploring the country. Whether you’re preparing for your first solo journey, dreaming of exploring Japan, or seeking a more mindful and meaningful way to travel, this conversation will inspire you to embrace adventure with confidence, curiosity, and an open heart. Connect with Sequoia:Instagram: Sequoia Armstrong InstagramPuebla York Inc. Instagram Listen to her podcast, Soul Wanderer:Soul Wanderer Podcast Learn more about her women’s group trip to Japan:Puebla York Women’s Group Trip to Japan If you enjoyed today’s episode, we’d love your support! Leave us a review, share it with a fellow traveler, and follow along on social media at @BonVoyageBesties for more inspiring travel stories and adventures.

  6. Jul 17

    Episode 69: The Paris Travel Guide for People Who Think They’ll Hate Paris with Annmarie Gajdos

    Join Rachel and Rosa as they chat with travel journalist and content creator Annmarie Gajdos about how to experience Paris beyond the typical tourist checklist. After visiting more than 35 countries, Annmarie shares how travel became both her passion and career, along with how her perspective on Paris completely changed after learning to embrace the city more like a local. In this episode, the trio discusses the importance of flexible itineraries, spontaneous moments, and meaningful cultural connections while traveling. Annmarie shares practical tips for exploring Paris authentically, including navigating the metro, spending time in local neighborhoods, embracing café culture, and balancing iconic sights with slower, more immersive experiences. They also dive into solo travel, travel mishaps, journaling, overcoming fear of missing out, and why some of the best memories happen when things don’t go according to plan. Whether you’re visiting Paris for the first time or returning for a deeper experience, this episode offers honest advice, thoughtful reflections, and plenty of inspiration for traveling with more intention and curiosity. Follow Annmarie on Instagram: @annmariegajdos
Follow us on Instagram and Substack: @bonvoyagebesties

  7. Jul 10

    Episode 68: Off the Beaten Path in Belgium: Wallonia Tips with Travel Expert Mélissa Monaco

    In this episode, we sit down with Mélissa Monaco, a travel blogger, podcast host, and solo travel advocate who has been inspiring travelers since 2010. As one of the pioneers of travel blogging in French-speaking Belgium, Mélissa has built a platform dedicated to uncovering hidden gems, sharing unforgettable city breaks, and encouraging women to explore the world with confidence. She is also a contributor to Lonely Planet and the voice behind Mel Loves Travels. Throughout the conversation, Mélissa shares how she transformed her passion for travel into a career, why destinations like Belgium, the Baltic countries, and the Faroe Islands deserve more attention, and how solo travel can become a powerful tool for confidence and independence. Her stories, insights, and expert travel tips prove that some of the most rewarding experiences can be found far beyond the typical tourist hotspots. This episode is filled with inspiration for anyone dreaming of their next adventure, planning a city escape, or considering solo travel for the first time. Mélissa’s passion for discovering underrated destinations and helping women travel on their own terms shines through every part of the conversation. Follow Mélissa online:
Instagram – @mellovestravels (https://www.instagram.com/mellovestravels)
 Facebook – Mel Loves Travels (https://www.facebook.com/mellovestravels)
 Pinterest – Mel Loves Travels (https://www.pinterest.com/mellovestravels) If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with your favorite travel companion. Follow us on socials at @BonVoyageBesties

  8. Jul 3

    Bonus: The Ultimate New Jersey Travel Guide: Hidden Gems & Local Secrets

    This week, we're celebrating our home state of New Jersey! With America commemorating its 250th anniversary and New Jersey proudly standing as one of the original 13 colonies, we thought it was the perfect time to spotlight the Garden State. Join Rosa and Rachel as they share what makes New Jersey so special—from charming small towns and diverse communities to hidden gems that often fly under the radar. Along the way, we tackle one of the state's most iconic debates: Pork Roll vs. Taylor Ham. Whether you're a lifelong local or planning your first visit, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on a destination that's often misunderstood but full of surprises. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow traveler! Follow us: 📍 @bonvoyagebesties 📍 Rosa: @RosaAlexC 📍 Rachel: @BlondWayfarer Thanks for listening, and as always, Bon Voyage Besties!

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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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