A Lady Well-Travelled | World Travels & Savvy Travel Tips

Shannon Bednarova
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Places & Travel

Explore the globe with A Lady Well-Travelled, your go-to guide for smart travel strategies, cultural experiences, and discovering the world with a sense of humor and wonder! 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, You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

  1. Nov 4

    Come Explore with Me: The Balkans in 2026 & Egypt, Turkey and India in 2027

    Send us Fan Mail Join Shannon Bednarova, host of A Lady Well‑Travelled, for a look at her late-2026 travel plans and the journeys ahead in 2027. From the historic towns of the Balkans to Egypt’s ancient treasures, Turkey’s biblical sites, and the vibrant cultures of India, this episode offers inspiration for travelers who love history, culture, food, and meaningful experiences. First, hear what’s ahead on a Balkans tour through Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Croatia. Shannon shares her excitement about exploring historic destinations and trying a new tour company, with firsthand reviews of sights, restaurants, and the overall experience to follow. Looking ahead to February 2027, Shannon previews an Egypt adventure with Jewel Rozanski of Cultured Travel. Planned highlights include the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum, and a seven-day Nile cruise aboard a historic steam paddle boat. A sunrise hot-air balloon ride near Luxor adds another much-anticipated experience to this journey through ancient Egypt. October brings a faith-centered trip to Turkey with Pastor Grant Etheridge of Liberty Live Church. With Istanbul and sites connected to the Seven Churches of Revelation on the itinerary, Shannon looks forward to exploring early Christian history through biblical context, sightseeing, and worship. She also shares why faith-based travel holds a special place in her life. Next comes a planned three-week Road Scholar journey through northern and southern India. Hear the childhood story that sparked Shannon’s lifelong fascination with India, then discover the experiences to which she’s looking forward: the Taj Mahal in Agra, meals with local families, temples, palaces, tea plantations, train travel, and river cruising in the south before ending in Cochin. Shannon also considers additional adventures in Eastern Europe and visits to more of the U.S. states still on her list. Along the way, she explains her commitment to honest travel reviews, practical lessons, and sharing the memorable finds that make a trip special. Follow A Lady Well‑Travelled for future destination reports and share this episode with someone planning their next adventure. 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

  2. Oct 30

    Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia: Gorgeous Views, Watersports & the Ice Cream Boat Always Has Your Flavor

    Send us Fan Mail Discover Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, with Shannon Bednarova on A Lady Well‑Travelled. In this episode, Shannon shares memories of teenage weekends at the lake and return visits decades later, exploring how this beloved mountain getaway has changed. Shannon describes why Smith Mountain Lake is a beloved destination for nature lovers and water babies from across the United States and why Southern Living Magazine dubbed it "the Lake Tahoe of the East". This gigantic man-made lake offers some of Virginia's most gorgeous waterfront property with multi-million-dollar mansions stretching across its 500 miles of shoreline. Looking for things to do at Smith Mountain Lake? Come along for a conversation about boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and the quiet coves that make time on the water so memorable. From gorgeous seasonal scenery, sparkling golden diamond sands to waterfront dining and the appeal of a houseboat vacation, this episode offers inspiration for a relaxed Virginia lake getaway. Shannon also looks beyond the shoreline to Moneta, Rocky Mount, Floyd, and Roanoke, sharing ideas for nearby outings, winery and brewery tours, places to stay, and getting to the lake. Whether you’re considering a Smith Mountain Lake vacation or simply love personal travel stories, join A Lady Well‑Travelled for a warm, nostalgic look at life on and around the water. 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

  3. Oct 23

    Travel as Medicine: Cancer, Healing, and Restorative Journeys with Oncologist Merry Jennifer Markham, MD

    Send us Fan Mail Can a passport coexist with a cancer diagnosis? In this thoughtful—and refreshingly honest conversation, Shannon welcomes gynecologic medical oncologist and luxury travel advisor Dr. Merry Jennifer Markham to explore how travel can restore the body, steady the mind, and nourish the soul. What you’ll hear Dr. Markham discusses the realities of traveling during or after cancer treatment, from fatigue and medication, radiation and chemotherapy schedules to choosing destinations with appropriate medical care nearby. No one is suggesting that sunscreen and room service replace an oncology team—but with careful planning, illness does not always mean having to postpone or cancel the journey. In fact, Dr. Markham firmly believes that travel has incredible therapeutic benefits for anyone who suffers from illness or needs restoration and healing. The emotional side of travel Shannon and Dr. Markham also examine the harder questions: why spending money on meaningful experiences is worth it, confronting mortality, and permitting yourself to enjoy life while navigating illness at the same time. Their conversation is compassionate, honest, and grounded in the belief that making memories is never frivolous and may be the best gift you can give to your friends and family. Travel for healthcare professionals This conversation also addresses the physicians, nurses, therapists, technologists, and other healthcare professionals who spend their days caring for everyone else. Dr. Markham shares how restorative travel can help overworked caregivers step away, breathe deeply, and remember that they are human beings—not exceptionally competent machines fueled by coffee. M Markham Travel specializes in helping these extremely busy individuals and their families get away, unwind, restore and rejuvenate. Who should listen This episode is for anyone living with cancer or another serious illness, supporting a loved one, recovering from treatment, or feeling burned out by a healthcare career. It offers encouragement and practical questions to consider before booking—not necessarily a prescription, but perhaps a gentle nudge toward the departure gate. https://mmarkhamtravel.com/ Instagram(2) Facebook https://www.linkedin.com/in/merryjennifermarkham 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

  4. Oct 13

    He Went to Thailand on a Dare to Escape—Then Found His Paradise and Passion

    Send us Fan Mail How Bangkok Bill turned one life-changing trip into a passion for helping others discover the real Thailand What if the life you keep dreaming about is waiting on the other side of one courageous decision? In this episode, Bangkok Bill Mullen shares how he left corporate burnout behind, sold everything, and built a new life in Thailand—one filled with adventure, purpose, and unforgettable experiences. Bill takes us beyond the typical tourist itinerary (think Phuket) to reveal the Thailand he has come to know and love. We talk about lush islands, world-class scuba diving, bustling food markets, welcoming local communities, and hidden places that still feel beautifully untouched. He also shares practical guidance on affordable flights, the best times to visit, trip length, language barriers, local guides, and getting more value from every travel dollar. This conversation is both a Thailand travel guide and an invitation to rethink what is possible. Whether you are planning your first trip, searching for authentic cultural experiences, or considering a major life change, Bill offers grounded advice and inspiring perspective to help you move from dreaming to doing. Listen in for recommendations on Koh Kood, the Emerald Cave, island hopping, Thai cuisine, ethical elephant swimming experiences at rescue centers, and custom trip planning. You will also hear how Thailand gave Bill a new calling—and how he now helps others experience the country with more confidence, connection, and curiosity. Bangkok Bill Mullen is a Thailand travel advocate, podcaster, author, and trip-planning resource who turned his own move abroad into a mission to help others discover the country’s culture, natural beauty, and lesser-known destinations. He'll soon be touring the United States to promote his new book, Getting Lost in the Magic of Thailand: Island Hopping Down the Siam Spice Route Email: support@thailandadventurenetwork.com Podcast Link: https://www.thailandadventurenetwork.com/apple-episodes Order Book: https://www.thailandadventurenetwork.com/book 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

  5. Oct 2

    Egypt 2027: A Royal Nile Cruise, Between the Paws of the Great Sphinx—and No Jerks Allowed!

    Send us Fan Mail Ready to experience Egypt beyond the ordinary, rushed tour-bus itinerary? In this special episode of A Lady Well Travelled, Shannon Bednarova explores CulturED Travel’s 12-day luxury Egypt journey departing in February 2027.  Tour Dates February 21 - March 4. 2027. Discover what makes this small-group itinerary different, from a seven-night Nile cruise aboard the historic SS Karim, a bespoke royal yacht used by kings and presidents, and the expert guidance you'll receive the entire trip from a certified Egyptologist. You'll also enjoy an exclusive “Between the Paws” visit at the Great Sphinx, five-star hotels, Abu Simbel, Luxor, Aswan, Cairo, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and Jewel Rozanski’s unforgettable “No Jerks” policy.  Learn how trusted local relationships, thoughtfully chosen inter-Egypt flights, and immersive cultural experiences can make a once-in-a-lifetime trip more safe, comfortable, truly meaningful, and fun.  You'll bring home memories and relationships that will last for a lifetime - and isn't that what travel is about? Learn more: Luxury Egypt Tours: 12-Day Private Journey with Egyptologist Guide | Cultured Travel | CulturED Travel Royal Egypt 2027     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

  6. Sep 28

    Investing in Memories with Friends, Family & Faraway Villas: How to Plan a Group Trip Everyone Will Love

    Send us Fan Mail What if the most valuable investment you make isn’t in your financial portfolio, but in the memories you create with the people you love? In this episode of A Lady Well-Travelled, Shannon Bednarova welcomes Paul Partridge to explore how thoughtful planning can transform a group vacation into a meaningful investment in friendship, family, and life. Drawing on his background in finance and investment advising, Paul shares how he transitioned into the travel industry after recognizing the powerful connection between money, personal priorities, and unforgettable experiences. He discusses how travelers can use their resources wisely—not simply to spend more, but to travel well and create memories that will last far beyond the journey itself. Shannon and Paul also examine one of the greatest challenges in group travel: bringing together people with different interests, personalities, and expectations. Paul introduces his Travel Type Matching™ Program, an approach designed to help travelers enjoy time together while still having the freedom to pursue the activities they love, from beaches and museums to hiking and outdoor adventures. The conversation also covers the advantages and disadvantages of vacation rentals, what distinguishes the properties featured through Travel Villa Guide, and why reliable support can make such a difference when staying abroad. Paul shares common mistakes Americans make when organizing international group trips, offers advice for selecting destinations that appeal to a wide range of travelers, and provides practical recommendations for planning a trip of a lifetime without unnecessary stress or conflict. Whether you are organizing a multigenerational family vacation, a getaway with friends, or your first group journey overseas, this episode offers valuable guidance for choosing the right people, places, accommodations, and priorities. Discover how to balance togetherness with independence—and how to turn your next trip into one of the best investments you will ever make. Get The Together Letter Ideas for turning “we should all get together” into a trip everyone still talks about for years.  It's Free!  Just use this link" Luxury Celebration Travel & Private Villa Experiences | Travel Villa Guide 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

  7. Sep 10

    An RV Rescue Story of Kindness, Faith, and Eastern NC Angels in Pickup Trucks - Part II

    Send us Fan Mail In this heartfelt and humorous episode of A Lady Well-Travelled, Shannon continues her Outer Banks adventure with an unforgettable RV breakdown on remote Cedar Island, North Carolina. After a peaceful ferry ride from Ocracoke turns into a stressful parking brake failure in the middle of an OBX North Carolina wildlife refuge, Shannon and Karen find themselves stranded, overheated, and unsure how they will get home to South Carolina. What begins as a travel mishap quickly becomes a moving story about faith, the kindness of others, quick thinking, and the unexpected strangers who show up exactly when they are needed to provide help. This episode highlights the beauty and remoteness of the North Carolina coast, the unique character of Ocracoke and Cedar Island, and the generosity of two local men, Clay Gaskill of Coastal Outboard Repair and Shane Wells of the North Carolina Marine Patrol. With plenty of laughter, gratitude, and real-life travel lessons, this story is a reminder that some of the most memorable journeys are not the smooth ones, but the ones where people step up, help each other, and restore your faith in humanity. These two gentlemen are an example for others of what chivalry, graciousness and true manhood should be...not loud, demanding and arrogant, but calm, steady and willing to do whatever it takes to make the situation better.  We all need more of that in our lives, don't we? 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

    An RV Rescue Story of Kindness, Faith, and Eastern NC Angels in Pickup Trucks - Part II

  8. Sep 5

    Ferries, Fried Shrimp, Full Moons and the OBX North Carolina - Going Back to Where You Came From

    Send us Fan Mail In this first part of a two-episode story, A Lady Well-Travelled host, Shannon Bednarova, invites listeners along for a funny, heartfelt, and beautifully imperfect RV road trip through South Carolina, Virginia and North Carolina’s beloved Outer Banks. What begins as a practical trip to handle a move quickly turns into a classic real-life travel story filled with unexpected detours, moving-company drama, coastal comfort food, stormy skies, ferry rides, dolphins, small-town kindness, and the unforgettable magic of the OBX.  Since both Shannon and her best friend, Karen, grew up in Eastern NC, the road trip becomes a nostalgic chance to revisit the beaches, towns, roads, and coastal landscapes that shaped many of their younger memories. But as often happens in real travel, things do not go exactly according to plan. Rather than letting the experience ruin the trip, Shannon pivots with humor, perspective, and a strong “life happens” attitude.  For travelers interested in ferry travel, RV trips, and coastal North Carolina, this segment offers a vivid sense of what makes the Outer Banks such a unique destination. To Shannon, Ocracoke feels like the “Key West of the Carolinas” — colorful, relaxed, quirky, and unforgettable. This episode is perfect for listeners who love real travel stories, funny travel mishaps, women’s travel adventures, RV road trips, Outer Banks vacations, North Carolina coastal travel, ferry rides, Southern travel, local restaurants, nostalgic travel, and honest reflections on what happens when a trip goes sideways but still turns into a beautiful memory. And guess what - Part Two is even BETTER! 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

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Explore the globe with A Lady Well-Travelled, your go-to guide for smart travel strategies, cultural experiences, and discovering the world with a sense of humor and wonder! 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, You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

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