A Lady Well-Travelled

Shannon Bednarova

Welcome to A Lady Well-Travelled Podcast!  In this show trailer, host and creator, Shannon Bednarova, invites you to join her and her friends as she travels the world for the next few years, sampling international cuisines, walking ancient paths, meditating in dimly lit churches, marveling at the beauty of the world and enjoying all the people she meets along the way.  She'll be bringing you travel tips, insights and those "hidden travel gems" that others may overlook, with humor, grace and always a sense of style and fun.  If you love all things travel and enjoy a lady who offers no-nonsense advice with a touch of Southern wit, you've found your new best friend! DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

  1. DEC 19

    Expanding or Renewing Your Faith Through Travel - with Joy Owens, CEO of Butler Travel

    Send us a text Summary In this episode of A Lady Well Traveled, host Shannon Bednarova speaks with Joy Owens, a travel agency CEO and former missionary. They discuss Joy's experiences growing up as a child of missionaries, the impact of travel on faith, and the importance of cultural sensitivity in mission work. Joy shares insights on organizing short-term mission trips, the significance of visiting holy sites, and how travel can deepen one's relationship with Christ. The conversation emphasizes the transformative power of travel in worship and strengthening and renewing faith. Joy Owens is a CEO of a travel agency focused on humanitarian and mission trips.Traveling as a missionary provides a unique perspective on life.Experiencing different cultures can highlight materialism in the U.S.Visiting biblical sites can strengthen one's faith.Short-term mission trips can open eyes to both poverty and joy.Cultural sensitivity is crucial in mission work.Travel can be a way to share faith with others.Planning is essential for successful mission trips.Worship can be done in churches and cathedrals as well as in nature.  Visit services in other countries for inspiration and joy!Traveling can reignite spiritual life and faith.Episode Links: Butlertravel.com Show Bonus! Use Welltraveled10 or 10% of our service fees joy@butlertravel.com Contact Shannon at shannon@aladywelltravelled.com If you liked the show, please review us on Google, Apple or Spotify and share with your friends and family  DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

    33 min
  2. DEC 15

    What's Your Paradise? Learn How a Travel Agent Can Help You Find It - With Guest Kitty Melerski

    Send us a text In this episode of A Lady Well Traveled, host Shannon Bednarova speaks with Kitty Melerski, a new travel agency owner, about her journey into the travel industry. Kitty shares her childhood travel experiences, her first international trip, and her passion for helping others plan meaningful vacations. They discuss the value of travel agents in today's digital age, the importance of building relationships with clients, and Kitty's aspirations for the future of her travel agency. The conversation highlights the joys of travel and the unique experiences that come with it. Takeaways Travel can transform your experiences and create meaningful memories.Kitty's childhood travel experiences shaped her love for exploration.The ocean and beach are Kitty's personal paradises.Travel agents provide personalized service that online platforms can't match.Building relationships with clients is key to being a successful travel agent.Travel agents can save you 20-30 hours of planning time for a domestic trip and more for an international trip.Kitty knows where there are bargains to be found and can alert clients to those bargains for their dream vacation.Kitty aims to transition to full-time travel planning in the future.Traveling means different things to different people, from family visits to adventure.The travel industry is evolving, and agents must adapt to new technologies.Contact Kitty to find your Paradise! www.paradisebykitty.com jmelerski@dreamvations.com 540-379-7142 Kitty's Bio Kitty Melerski is the owner of Paradise by Kitty, where she helps people stop Googling and start traveling. Known for her “travel friends” approach, Kitty specializes in cruises, group trips, and thoughtfully planned getaways that feel easy, fun, and unforgettable. Let her take the time and energy to plan your next paradise!!! DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

    25 min
  3. DEC 3

    What Do You Want to Eat? I Don’t Know, You Choose – How to Select a Restaurant When Travelling Abroad

    Send us a text In this episode, Shannon Bednarova shares her extensive travel experiences and insights on how to select the best restaurants while traveling abroad. She emphasizes the importance of avoiding tourist traps, exploring new cuisines, and seeking local recommendations to enhance the dining experience. Shannon also discusses the significance of atmosphere, wine selection, and making reservations in advance, while sharing memorable dining experiences and top restaurant recommendations from her travels. Takeaways Traveling opens your mind to new cultures and cuisines.Avoid tourist traps for a more authentic dining experience.Research restaurants using online platforms like TripAdvisor and Reddit.A breathtaking location can enhance a mediocre food experience.Try at least one new cuisine during your travels.Local recommendations often lead to hidden gems, great food and new friends.Reading diner reviews helps you gauge the quality of service and food.Reservations should be made well in advance for fine dining, especially for "it" places or Michelin starred restaurantsDining experiences can create lifelong memories.Links to recommended restaurants: - Orangery Restaurant at Blenheim Palace | Lunch & Afternoon Tea, Woodstock, England - $$$ Copper Still - Scottish Bar & Restaurant - Copper Still - Edinburgh, Scotland - $$$ La Certosa di Maggiano Official Website - Siena, Italy - $$$ Restaurant La Terrazza di Lucullo - Caesar Augustus, Capri, Italy - $$$$ Luna Restaurant at Villa Magia | Fine Dining in Positano Amalfi Coast, Italy - $$$$ Dining at The Inn at Little Washington - Little Washington, Virginia, United States -$$$$$ - 2-3 M*s https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/victoria-and-alberts-overview/ - Orlando, Florida, United States - $$$$$ - 1 M* Esh Pitabar - Amsterdam, The Netherlands - $$ Kebab Pizzeria Kirmina - Milan, Italy (this restaurant doesn't have a website; however, if you search for them on-line you can order from them from food delivery sites) - $ DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

    22 min
  4. NOV 26

    Currency & Credit Cards: What You Need to Know When Traveling Abroad

    Send us a text In this episode, Shannon Bednarova shares essential travel tips focusing on credit cards and currency exchange. She emphasizes the importance of preparation before traveling, including researching banks and comparing exchange rates before ordering foreign currency. Shannon discusses the advantages of using credit cards abroad, which cards are widely accepted, and which are not, the necessity of having cash for certain transactions, and practical advice on managing foreign currency when traveling in the EU and British Isles. Transform your traveling experience by exchanging currency before your tripResearch banks and competitive exchange rates to get the best dealConsider how you travel and the places you will visit when ordering currencyCredit cards are widely accepted, but not American ExpressSome vendors only accept credit cards and no cashCash is still necessary or preferred for certain transactions and tipsBe cautious of exchange rates at airports and tourist areasKeep track of your expenses and receipts while travelingBanks in the US will accept foreign paper currency for exchange upon your return, but not coinageUse foreign coinage for tips, buying convenience items and for public restrooms BEFORE returning to the United StatesDISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

    16 min
  5. NOV 18

    What You Gonna' Wear on That Airplane? Let's Dress for Success & Upgrades!

    Send us a text In this episode of A Lady Well Traveled, Shannon Bednarova discusses the importance of dressing appropriately while traveling by airplane. She emphasizes how attire can influence perceptions and experiences during flights, including potential upgrades to first/business class. The conversation covers various aspects of travel etiquette, including what to wear and what to avoid, while also providing practical tips for maintaining a polished appearance during travel. takeaways Airlines have dress codes that passengers should be aware of.Airlines have the right to ask you to cover up or change clothing if they feel you violate their dress policy.  They may also deny you the right to fly if you refuse.Flying barefoot is never allowed.Dressing well can lead to better treatment and potential upgrades.First impressions matter, especially in travel settings.Comfortable and stylish clothing is key for long flights.Avoid arriving on a plane wearing pajamas (or other nightwear), overly revealing attire or clothing with inflammatory messaging or pornographic images on planes.Airline staff notice how passengers dress and behave.Travel attire should be neat, clean, and appropriate.Consider cultural/religious norms when traveling to different countries and on different carriers.Follow me @aladywelltravelled on Instagram I'd love to hear from you!  Write to me at shannon@aladywelltravelled.com DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

    14 min
  6. NOV 13

    Arrive at Your Destination with Fewer Wrinkles in Your Clothing & the Least Luggage: Packing or Vacuum Cubes vs. Rolling

    Send us a text In this episode, Shannon Bednarova shares her expert tips on how to pack efficiently for travel, focusing on methods to minimize wrinkles and optimize luggage space. She discusses various packing techniques, including the use of packing cubes, vacuum packing, and rolling clothes, while also emphasizing the importance of choosing wrinkle-resistant fabrics. Shannon provides practical advice for travelers of all types, ensuring they arrive at their destinations looking fresh and organized. Packing cubes help keep clothes organized and optimize luggage space.Vacuum packing saves space but may not prevent wrinkles. Try Vacbird  Vacuum Bags and Pump or VacEase USB Cable Pump - @vacbird_officialChoosing wrinkle-resistant fabrics can simplify any packing.Rolling clothes is effective for space optimization and wrinkle preventionMixing and matching outfits can reduce the number of items needed.Using tissue paper can protect delicate items while packing.Travel size wrinkle release spray is a handy tool - Try Downy Wrinkle Release Spray - @DownywrinklereleasersprayConsider your packing method based on your travel style.Stay organized to avoid unpacking everything to find one item.Want a beautiful, designer hat for your next trip to warmer climes?  Try Scala Hats - @scalausaDISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

    13 min
  7. NOV 6

    The Real Deal: Ten Pros & Cons About Train Travel in the UK & Europe - Part 1 of a Series on Train Travel

    Send us a text In this episode of A Lady Well Traveled, Shannon Bednarova discusses the pros and cons of train travel in parts Europe and the British Isles. She shares her extensive train travel experience, highlighting realistically the positive and the negative aspects of train travel that often get overlooked or romanticized by other travel writers, bloggers or podcasters. The episode aims to provide listeners with a realistic overview of what to expect when traveling by train in Europe, along with tips for future episodes. Takeaways Train travel offers beautiful countryside views that you won't see when flying into a cityYou can work on the train with electric outlets and free wi-fi onboardTrains can be more economical than flying, but you need to compare pricesSocializing with fellow travelers is a perk that has great benefitsTrains often have food and drink options available.Assigned seating can lead to unexpected companions, both good and badTrain bathrooms can sometimes be unpleasant, to say the leastLuggage handling can be challenging on trains and in train stations, especially with large, heavy luggageInstagram @aladywelltravelled DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

    15 min
  8. OCT 24

    Baby It's Cold Outside! Episode Nine: Tips for Staying Warm While Traveling to Colder Destinations

    Send us a text Summary In this episode of A Lady Well-Travelled, host and creator Shannon Bednarova shares essential tips for traveling to colder destinations. She discusses how to pack efficiently, choose the right outerwear, and the importance of layering. Shannon also provides insights on how to pack efficiently for long trips to chilly destinations highlights must-have accessories for warmth as well as fashion. The episode concludes with advice on shopping for cold weather gear and the importance of planning ahead. Takeaways Pack smartly and efficiently for a week or two. You can pack fewer clothes and still look great by changing your accessories. Choose fashionable and waterproof outerwear. A hooded waterproof jacket is a lifesaver. You can wear your clothes more than once before washing them. Rechargeable hand warmers are a delight to have. Invest in good socks to keep your feet warm. Ask for recommendations at sporting goods shops, based on your destination, planned activities and the temperatures and conditions you will experience. Don't wait until the last minute to shop for gear. Plan ahead to ensure you have the right clothing for your trip. DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

    12 min
5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to A Lady Well-Travelled Podcast!  In this show trailer, host and creator, Shannon Bednarova, invites you to join her and her friends as she travels the world for the next few years, sampling international cuisines, walking ancient paths, meditating in dimly lit churches, marveling at the beauty of the world and enjoying all the people she meets along the way.  She'll be bringing you travel tips, insights and those "hidden travel gems" that others may overlook, with humor, grace and always a sense of style and fun.  If you love all things travel and enjoy a lady who offers no-nonsense advice with a touch of Southern wit, you've found your new best friend! DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com