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In this episode, the FAQ is: How can I take a walking tour when I arrive in a city?
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Today’s Destination is: Chattanooga, Tennessee
Today’s Misstep- Getting stopped by TSA security
Travel Advice: Plan for the unexpected
 
FAQ:  How can I get the walking tour when I get to a city?
 
Response: A guided walking tour of a city is a treat for a solo traveler, especially for a woman who is interested in its history.
 
The more popular ones are through platforms like Viator, TripAdvisor, Airbnb, and FreeWalkingtoursbylocals.com, but there are many ways to score a tour from someone who truly cares about the experience for you. 
Be sure to read the reviews and book in advance during a busy season. Some are free, and suggest a tip at the end if you liked it. Your hotel could also g**k you a tour. The Visitor Center or Tourism office can also give you guidance on this. You may also find a walking tour app for a self-guided tour, with maps and points of interest. You can GPS my city or check Detour. I found some walking tours on YouTube that were pretty fun to watch also.
 
https://freewalkingtoursbylocals.com/



Today’s destination: Chattanooga, Tennessee



My first visit here was in 1974, on a bus of young women heading to Florida. It was called Junior Trip. We were 80 women, two bus loads. I remember very little about Chattanooga from that visit.
I returned to see it in 2024, which made a more significant impression. This time, I was visiting the future Dr. Travelbest, who lives there now. We are currently working on a Planner for travel guidance, so look for that in the future.
It’s a central travel hub, especially for the railroads. A bridge crosses the railroad tracks, which are dozens of tracks wide. It may be one of the largest railroad hubs that I have experienced. You can see the city and the Moccasin Bend from the infamous Lookout Mountain.
Listen to the episode on Chickamauga to learn about President Abraham Lincoln's campaign to gain control of the South in the 1860s. It was a place of both Confederate and Union victories.
https://www.visitchattanooga.com/things-to-do/
https://www.visitchattanooga.com/plan/transportation/
 
The Zoo was a highlight, with a giraffe named George gladly accepting lunch from my hands to his 18-inch tongue. It seems that George loves romaine lettuce. Who would have guessed that? That experience was a treat. Kids like it, too. An assortment of other animals makes for a few hours of seeing wildlife at the Chattanooga Zoo.
Walk across the Pedestrian Bridge and the riverfront along the Tennessee River to get a flavor of the city. I walked the bridge at night, and it was a sparkling river with no watercraft because the weather was rainy and threatened winds. The Northshore District
has trendy boutiques, galleries, and food choices; you can walk everywhere. You can also learn much about the Civil War from an organized guided walking tour of the area.
I did get to see the historic train station, the Chattanooga Choo Choo. Parts of the terminal building were recently sold, so check the show notes for the latest.
https://www.local3news.com/local-news/preserve-chattanooga-sells-part-of-chattanooga-choo-choo-complex/article_a8d7781e-dbe5-11ee-abba-0b98f22b8f70.html
I also enjoyed Ruby Falls and will create a special episode about that destination soon.
On my next visit, I plan to Explore the Tennessee Aquarium and dive into the fascinating world of marine life at one of the top-rated aquariums in the country. From river otters to penguins, the Tennessee Aquarium showcases various aquatic animals.
I did a few hikes on this trip, but most of the days, it rained, so I will return and hike more. Chattanooga is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go hiking on nearby trails like Stringers Ridge or Raccoon Mountain or try rock climbing at the Tennessee Wall, if you have that talent, or just go and watch the climbers.
Next time I come, I may al

In this episode, FAQ is: What are etias visas, and when are they required?
Today’s Destination is: Estes Park, Colorado
Today’s Mistake- I am not a foodie, but I love learning about new foods. I need to be braver.
Travel Advice:  check your loyalty points and miles frequently for errors
FAQ: What are etias documents and when are they required?
Let’s make it simple: it’s not a visa. It’s a visa waiver. Starting in 2025, the ETIAS  will be required for Americans traveling to Europe. US citizens can travel to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days without a visa. From 2025 on, visa-exempt non-EU nationals, including Americans, will be able to register with ETIAS before departure. This is not a visa but a visa waiver for travelers. It does require registration, not a visa.
https://etias.com/etias-launch-pushed-to-2025
The ETIAS visa waiver for Americans is a multiple-entry travel authorization valid for three years. During this period, U.S. travelers can enter any Schengen zone European countries that apply to the travel authorization as many times as necessary.
The total stay allowed in a Schengen country with each entry with ETIAS is 90 days within every 180 days. ETIAS permits travel to Schengen countries for short stays for tourism, business, medical treatment, or transit purposes. To stay for more extended periods or other purposes, American citizens must apply for a visa from an embassy or consulate.
https://www.etiasvisa.com/etias-requirements/americans
Today’s destination is Estes Park, Colorado
Drive to Estes Park from wherever you are in Colorado as it’s the Rocky Mountain National Park entrance. I’ve been coming here since the 1970’s, and it’s consistently delightful.
Try the Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in the US, and the most famous scenic drive in Rocky Mountain National Park—a day trip not to miss through high alpine tundra panoramas! Even driving up to Estes Park from Colorado's Front Range is scenic.
https://www.colorado.com/cities-and-towns/estes-park
If you want to get to Estes Park from Denver or vice versa, you can take the Bustang from Denver's Union Station. From there, it stops at Westminster at U.S. 36 and Sheridan Boulevard before ending at the Estes Park Visitor Center. Check the show notes for fares and schedules, especially seasonally.
https://ridebustang.com/fares/
I’ve been there in the spring and the fall for the best leafy color and excellent weather.
If you like hiking, you will want to try it out here. Three words to describe are Beautiful, Colorful, and Rustic.
From boating on Lake Estes to soaring up the aerial tram, touring historical sites, to savoring sips at local breweries and distilleries, this small mountain town doesn't disappoint. While summer is the prime season, there are special events, concerts, and festivals.
Camping is accessible from your car, or you can hike more remotely. I’ve been camping and hiking here in spring, summer, and fall. It’s a Hiking paradise, so let me know if you do. Don’t forget to look for the State flower: (name it) Columbine, it’s purple.
 
https://www.visitestespark.com/
Today’s Mistake-  I am not a foodie but love learning about new foods. I need to be braver.
 
Trying to eat like a local. I have not tried too many new foods. This year, I plan to be more adventurous with my eating, within reason. I don’t want a lousy meal to ruin a good day. I will eat some foods, but not turtle blood. What someone else likes may not be for me.
 
Today’s Travel Advice-check your points and miles frequently for errors
Do you have many saved points or miles? Look them over and book your next trip now while you can. You can also donate them to a friend or a charity. You can also use them. Book a standard room on points, get a suite upgrade, and pay a bit extra.
 
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Today’s Destination is: Akureyri and Northern Iceland
Today’s Misstep- My hostel was self-service, and someone was in my bed.
Travel Advice: Be on time if you are on a tour.
 
FAQ: How do I navigate the city bus system when I don’t speak the language?
 
Response: I traveled around the world for 90 days, and most of the time, I did not speak the language of that country. I had some challenges riding the bus in some cities; for example, Reykjavik, Iceland, was a minor disaster. You can use travel apps like Rome to Rio for bus or train travel guidance. You'll be able to get to the station early so that you can ask other people about the timing of the bus. In Goa, India, I waited at an unmarked bus station, but it never came, so I took a chance with a motorcycle taxi. Later that day, I waited at another bus station and was unsure where the bus would go, left or right. No one spoke my language. I finally got on my first of 4 buses to my destination. In hindsight, a taxi would have been a better option had one been available. Most of the time, you will get on the right bus, and you will be able to get to your destination. If you’re not in a hurry, even better. Enjoy the experience and travel light.
Today’s destination: Akureyri and Northern Iceland
 
On my around-the-world trip, I had planned to drive the Ring Road in Iceland for 7 days, the final destination on a 90-day adventure. After many months of planning and reserving a car rental, I canceled with about 2 weeks' notice and decided to fly to the northern part of Iceland for a 4-day trip instead.
 
I bought a round-trip ticket to Akureyri, and the airport to get there was tiny, so small that there was no security screening for passengers. There were about 40 people on the plane.
 
Once I landed, I discovered there was no bus service to town, as it was not profitable. I hitched a ride to the cruise ship terminal with some airline pilots from Denmark who were with Viking Cruises whom I met on the plane. The terminal for boats was much busier than the one for planes. Five colossal cruise ships—mega-ships—were docked in town. I met a cruise ship passenger, Kelly, from Long Beach, California, sitting on a bench. She was retired, single, and had no kids. She broke her ankle, and walking the stairs is challenging for her now. She was sweet to meet.
 
The town has only 20,000 residents.
 
When the cruise ships left town, the city became peaceful and relaxed. 
 
What did I do those days? It was a great adventure, as I had booked a hostel near a bus stop and Netto grocery store. I took a day trip to Lake Myvatn, the fourth-largest lake in the country. We saw the Godafoss, the waterfall of the Gods. I explored some caves and volcanic areas from afar. While there, I witnessed a long-distance run of 100 kilometers. The run starts at midnight, and I could watch the runners up close and even be at the finish line for several of them. How exciting. I also enjoyed the public pools with the locals every day I could. I felt like a local and explored the hikes and neighborhoods on the city bus. 
https://www.visitakureyri.is/en/see-and-do/events-festivals/sulur-vertical
Today’s Misstep: My hostel was self-service, and someone was in my bed.
In other words, there were no administrative people there at all.
When I arrived, someone was sleeping in my bed. That was disturbing because there was no one to ask for help. The person was sound asleep and sick, and they would not move to another bed. I had five other roommates, but I did not want to take one of their bunks. So, I went swimming in a nearby hot tub instead and relaxed.
That night, I sorted it all out. The other roommates, who were from Germany and China, were kind and friendly, which made it all worth it.
Today’s Travel Advice- If on a tour, be on time.
 
You may need to hitchhike if you miss your guided bus tour, so don’t be late. The driver may need to pick up passengers at another

FAQ: How do I make small talk when you are on the road with a stranger?
 
Destination: Louisville, Ky
 
Today’s Mistake-Getting lost in Louisville
Travel Advice:  Pack half your suitcase with giveaways and gifts.



FAQ: 
How do I make small talk with a stranger when you are on the road?
 
Start small with a question or comment about the weather, date, location, or event you are both at or have just attended. Do they seem to have something in common with you? You can gently ask how they are doing today.
 
Today’s destination: Louisville, KY
Derby is on the first Saturday of every year in May.
I’ve attended several of them with friends and always had fun. I miss those days, but still love the races. Churchill Downs is the place to visit when in town as that’s where the race takes place, the fastest two minutes in sports ever!
Even if you can’t make the early week races, get dressed up and place your best. Check out Thurby Oaks, which is an alternative to Churchill Downs.
On Derby weekend, you can go bourbon tasting or whatever. Be sure you get your big hat! Follow the rules regarding what you can bring.
My friend and I always celebrated with a Mint Julep, even if not at the race. What’s the recipe? 
The four ingredients to taste are mint leaf, bourbon, simple syrup, and crushed ice. Once, I did not have a mint leaf, so I used oregano, which went over badly. It was a hoot!
https://www.churchilldowns.com/tickets/
 
https://www.letsgolouisville.com/kentucky-derby-tips
 
Visit the museums on Museum Row, including Louisville's own Muhammed Ali Museum, the Frazier Kentucky History Museum, 21C Museum Hotel, KMAC (the Kentucky Museum of Art & Crafts), and Roots 101 African American Museum, all within proximity. The Speed Art Museum is also a fantastic contemporary art museum in Old Louisville.
Stroll through beautiful Old Louisville, or take a guided history tour with Louisville Historic Tours to learn all about the local architecture and history.
Take a food tour with Louisville Food Tours and experience the story of Louisville one bite at a time in the most scenic neighborhoods in town.  You'll learn all about the city's history while enjoying the sights, interspersed with stops at fantastic local eateries for food and drinks. With just 1.5 miles of walking spread out over 3 hours, it's the perfect balance of activity, history, and eating and drinking.
Louisville has a fantastic theatre scene! Check out what's playing at Actor's Theatre, or if you're visiting during the summer, check out the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival, the longest-running free Shakespeare festival in the country. Another fantastic entertainment venue is PLAY, a gay nightclub hosting drag performances and Queer-owned theatre productions.
Take a sunset cruise on the beautiful Ohio River aboard Louisville's historic steamboat, the Belle of Louisville.
Explore NuLu and shop at the local boutiques and gift stores in the NuLu neighborhood. It's a small area, about 2 blocks, but full of locally owned businesses. My favorite is Revelry, a gift shop and art gallery featuring unique creations by Louisville artists. Right across the street is Women Owned Wallet, a shop featuring only women-owned and created products. There are also two bourbon distilleries, Angel's Envy and Rabbit Hole! If you're spending the day in NuLu, book a NuLu Food Tour with Louisville Food Tours. Their 3-hour daytime tour features food that represents the culinary heritage of Louisville and Kentucky, and they also offer an evening bourbon food tour in NuLu, which treats bourbon as if it were wine and explores pairings of food, bourbon, and bourbon cocktails.
 Lia Garcia, Founder and CEO, Let’s Go Louisville
 
Today’s Mistake- Getting Lost in Louisville
 
It was the night of the Kentucky Derby, and my college friends were all there, staying near Churchill Downs. One friend drove their motor home out to a bar after the even

"Solo Journeys in India: Navigating the Transport Tapestry via tuk-tuks, trains and planes….”
 
Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide for women like you who need extra support traveling the world (slowly), one woman at a time.
 
Please rate this podcast and the Amazon book series, especially Part B on Destinations!
 
I’ve been traveling solo since 1972 and writing about it since 1993. Now you can experience the Top Selling Book Series: 5 Steps to Solo Travel, a Woman’s Guide to Travel and Destinations in Her Prime, found on Amazon. I recently took a 90-day trip around the world, and this is a special episode on Indian transportation for the solo female.
 
What are the challenges faced by solo female travelers in India? How can they navigate the transportation system in India? What are the travel tips for exploring India's transport networks as a solo female traveler?
This particular podcast edition is about the "Roads Less Traveled, including a few Solo Female Travel Tips for Exploring India's Transport Networks"
There was a massive train crash while I was in India, and many people were tragically killed. The people I was staying with had friends on those trains, but they were ok. Many of my family members contacted me across the miles to see if I was ok, as it was world news. See the show notes for more on train accidents.
https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/yearender-2023-tragic-accidents-in-2023-road-rail-accidents-odisha-coromandel-express-andhra-pradesh-train-collision-tragedy-latest-updates-2023-12-22-908419

The world’s largest populated country has transportation challenges. Corruption, bureaucracy, and red tape are also issues. Corrupted officials leverage their control over permits to line their pockets. Income equality is massive. The wealthiest 10% makes up almost 60% of India's income. The future looks brighter.
One airline, Go First, went out of business after I bought my ticket in May 2023. I cannot get a refund because the airline is bankrupt and, therefore, will not honor any purchases of their flights, nor will the ticket agency through which I bought it. 
https://www.hindustantimes.com/business/go-first-gets-two-financial-bids-as-part-of-its-bankruptcy-process-101708754354934.html
I arrived in Chennai from a flight originating in Cambodia and transferred through Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I spent 8 hours in the airport, talking to people from all over the world. Here is a rundown of the travel I did over two weeks in six cities in India. 
When going through airport security, you must be on an all-female line. Men and women are not allowed to go through together.
The same thing happened when I went to the Taj Majal. Separate security stations were established, and I even hit my head on that going through, as I am 5’ 10’, so I am taller than most other women.
Overall, I made many transportation mistakes, but they were all to help you make a better trip next time.
My travel mistakes in India: I was lied to by a taxi driver, had a driver with no shoes and no change, got scammed in the main Delhi train station, and had trouble finding a bus to Agra.
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"Savoring Solitude: Women's Guide to Eating Out Alone While Traveling"
 
"Table for One: Dining Tips and Tricks for Solo Female Travelers"
You have three meals a day, and you are solo. What do you do to enjoy these meals by yourself? You can have some great times if you follow these tips, or maybe you can add more tips for other travelers.

Eating out alone can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for solo travelers, including women aged 60 and above. Here are some tips to make dining alone more comfortable and enjoyable:
Choose the Right Restaurant: Choose restaurants with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. Look for establishments that cater to solo diners and offer comfortable seating options. You can find them on websites before you go or make reservations. When I was in Florence, Italy, I asked the hostel for a recommendation for a pizza restaurant, and they said Gusta was the best. I got a pizza for myself and a second one to return to the hostel, and I was greeted with a massive hug
Avoid busy or Peak Hours, so ask if you’re unsure which they are. Consider dining during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and long wait times. Lunchtime or early dinner hours are often quieter and more relaxed, making it easier to enjoy your meal in peace. I ate an early dinner in Chennai at a local diner. I asked for no chilis, but it was still spicy hot with chilis. I managed to eat it along with my peanut butter.
Bring a Book or Electronic Device: Bring a book, e-reader, or smartphone to entertain yourself while waiting for your meal. Reading can help you feel more comfortable and confident dining alone. I listen with earbuds and enjoy podcasts and my recordings of conversations with my mom, who died years ago when I travel.
Engage with the Staff: Discuss with the server or bartender if you feel comfortable doing so. They can provide recommendations, share local insights, and make you feel more at ease. A smile will get you started, and after that, just ask a question you may have about the food, the restaurant, or the city. In the Philippines, in El Nido, my server/bartender explained to me that he was a temp worker and he was finished with his shift. His pay included room and board.
Sit at the Bar: Sitting at the bar can be an excellent option for solo diners, offering a more casual and interactive dining experience. You can chat with the bartender or fellow patrons and enjoy watching the action in the kitchen, which can be very entertaining to a solo traveler like me. One restaurant chain lets you sit in the kitchen to watch the meal preparation. See the show notes.
https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/yearender-2023-tragic-accidents-in-2023-road-rail-accidents-odisha-coromandel-express-andhra-pradesh-train-collision-tragedy-latest-updates-2023-12-22-908419
Practice Self-Confidence: Remember that dining alone is nothing unusual or embarrassing. Hold your head high, exude confidence, and enjoy the freedom to choose where and what to eat without compromise. I sometimes talk to myself to build my confidence when solo eating.
Stay Safe: Be mindful of your surroundings and trust your instincts when dining alone. Choose well-lit and populated restaurants, avoid sharing personal information with strangers, and secure your belongings. Don’t leave your purse on the back of your chair.
Celebrate Solo Dining: View dining alone as an opportunity for self-care and empowerment. Treat yourself to a delicious meal, savor the experience, and celebrate your independence as a solo traveler.
 
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