Stay In Good Company

Mollie Reese
Stay In Good Company

Stay In Good Company is a podcast series sharing the stories of families behind independently owned and operated stays and experiences across the world. From the history of the places to the personal visions for the businesses. From the variety of experiences offered to the attention to details that make each stay truly unique. Stay In Good Company captures the fond memories and traditions, past advice and future excitement of these places. Introducing a global audience of mindful slow travelers to the welcoming hospitality of family raised and run homestays.

  1. S7. | E12. Nusfjord | Lofoten Islands, Norway | A Restored Fisherman Village And Resort Offering Warmth In The Wild Above The Arctic Circle

    12月19日

    S7. | E12. Nusfjord | Lofoten Islands, Norway | A Restored Fisherman Village And Resort Offering Warmth In The Wild Above The Arctic Circle

    “Because that's also something that's quite important is that you have time. You don't go to Nusfjord to stay one night. You need at least a couple of nights to actually understand where you are and get a feel of where you are. And I've been in quite a lot of different hotels which have a high level of luxury with marble and gold. But being here, actually just feeling the ambience and getting that serene, quiet feeling - that is luxury.” We’re in great company with Renate Johansen and Fred Anton Ravenberg of Nusfjord Village & Resort, set in a traditional fishing village in the breathtaking Lofoten Islands of Norway, where dramatic seas meet towering mountains, where a spirit of exploration fills the air. Here at Nusfjord, Renate is the Guest Relations Manager and Fred is the General Manager, inviting travelers to uncover and enjoy extraordinary moments by bringing a taste of modern comfort to a place bursting with heritage and soul.   In this episode, as we settle into the conviviality of the holiday season, many of us may dream about a place such as Nusfjord, offering a refuge of warmth and hospitality amidst the wild landscapes of the Lofoten Islands.  Personally speaking, having just returned from this special place poised on the fringes of the world, I can say it is truly a destination to experience the power of nature and the perspective it gives you.  Top Takeaways [4:20] To understand the serene setting amidst this rugged landscape, we must go back in time to 425 BC when the earliest settlements in Nusfjord began - making this fishing village one of Norway’s oldest and best preserved fishing villages. [11:05] There is adventure abound at Nusfjord “where the spirit of exploration fills the air in the wild landscapes of Lofoten, offering a refuge of warmth and hospitality.” From fishing expeditions by morning to hiking under the midnight sun, from taking in the winter views from the sauna windows to a polar night search of the skies for Northern Lights.  [12:30] Stay in the authentic rorbu cabins nestled in the village or around the peaceful harbor where modern comfort is in season year round. And for those looking for privacy, discover the seclusion of the Værier’s original residence or the Isolated Fisherman’s island cabin.  [17:45] The impact slow and sustainable travel can make on the preservation of a historical village such as Nusfjord and the livelihoods of the local community as employees and suppliers, and the importance of year round offerings to dilute seasonality.  [23:00] Dine across Nusfjord’s café, tavern and restaurant where Arctic gastronomy is served at its finest, framed in majestic natural surroundings, and paired with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.  [25:30] The future of Nusfjord is bright with holiday lights, warm with candles, sweet with treats, and scents of Christmas trees abound as the village and travelers alike celebrate what the New Year will bring.  Notable Mentions Norwegian Christmas Culinary Traditions - “lutefisk” with potatoes, peas and bacon or crisp pork belly with sauerkraut and potatoes, both paired perfectly with “akvavit”  The history of Landandelen Visit For Yourself Nusfjord Website | @nusfjordvillageandresort Stay In Good Company Website

    37 分鐘
  2. S7. | E11. Finca Victoria | Vieques, Puerto Rico | Sylvia De Marco Invites Travelers Into A New World Of Ancient Wellness

    12月12日

    S7. | E11. Finca Victoria | Vieques, Puerto Rico | Sylvia De Marco Invites Travelers Into A New World Of Ancient Wellness

    “And I got so addicted to my creativity. The more I create, the more praises I get. I'm doing a movie, but I'm also doing three restaurants where everybody's eating in those restaurants, and then I'm also doing the wine list for those restaurants. So it was really rich and amazing and beautiful, but I didn't know that I was depleting myself to a point of exhaustion. And then I had this spiritual awakening.” We’re in great company with Sylvia De Marco, the Founder of Finca Victoria, an Ayurvedic boutique hotel and retreat center, perched atop one of the highest points on Puerto Rico’s island of Vieques. Once a charming destination that changed Sylvia’s life, she has now transformed into the perfect place for travelers to be nourished, to reset and restore through her Panchakarma practices, culinary flavors and grounding experiences.  In this episode, as we approach the sometimes stressful holiday season, dreaming of New Year's resolutions and future travels, tune into the words and wisdom that Sylvia shares from her own personal journey and how she invites us all to find our way as well.  Top Takeaways [1:50] From childhood, Sylvia recognized her joy in sharing spaces and building community, expressing her creative spirit in a variety of mediums, flavors, and passions.  [5:15] Sylvia’s wellness journey began at a dark moment in her life when Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico in 2017, acting as a blessing in disguise for the self discovery and healing that would ensue.  [9:20] Ayurveda, “knowledge of life,” is the oldest medicinal system known to man. Listen as Sylvia so clearly explains its history, purpose and presence in modern day society - as a preventative practice striving for balance within the body and its surroundings, as opposed to modern medicine which only isolates the problem. [18:50] Finca Caribe was Sylvia’s serene escape from her daily life as well as her inspiration for stepping into the world of hosting. How it came into her hands and underwent a complete transformation to become Finca Victoria is a story of fate and good fortune.  [26:00] Begin your morning with a nourishing and flavorful Ayurvedic Caribbean breakfast, spend your day discovering the beautiful beaches and wild horses roaming the island of Vieques, and end your evening kayaking the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.  [32:10] From the cabins to houses, treehouses to airstreams, every room tells a story at Finca Victoria, as Sylvia lovingly conceptualized and mindfully designed each to blend into the stunning nature that surrounds them.  [41:40] What the future holds for Finca Victoria and how we as listeners can learn from Sylvia’s appreciation for moments of pause and learnings from a state of flow.  Visit For Yourself Finca Victoria Website | @finca_victoria La Botánica Website | @labotanicahotel Stay In Good Company Website

    51 分鐘
  3. S7. | E10. Albert Hotel | Fredericksburg, TX | Mike Bolick Welcomes Travelers To Experience An Honest Hill Country Getaway Like Never Before

    12月5日

    S7. | E10. Albert Hotel | Fredericksburg, TX | Mike Bolick Welcomes Travelers To Experience An Honest Hill Country Getaway Like Never Before

    “If you walk up and down Main Street and go into an art gallery, or a retail shop, or a restaurant that's been here for years, you're gonna get a, ‘Welcome y'all. How's it going?’ And you're going to get a sense of who that person is and what that place really is. There are ways to be luxurious and boutique without being stuffy and pretentious, because the Hill Country is simply not any of those things.” We’re in great company with Mike Bolick, the General Manager of the Albert Hotel, a tranquil Texas Hill Country resort that is lovingly restored and set to officially open in January 2025, blending historical charm with modern luxury, tucked just off of Fredericksburg’s bustling Main Street.  There is much talk about town and excitement in the air as this historic Main Street is brought back to life with a vigor to preserve the past and pave way for a new generation of authenticity seeking travelers.  In this episode, Mike shares his credible perspective on and passion for what he and his team at New Waterloo are curating in this ‘Honest Hill Country Getaway,’ - from a culinary scene rivaling that of Austin paired with the talented winemaking scene right outside of town, to the boutique accommodations that are ‘delightfully detailed’ and ‘eclectically elegant.’ Top Takeaways [1:45] From a childhood growing up in Ritz Carlton hotels to beginning his hospitality career with The Four Seasons to finding his purpose in the luxury boutique hotel space, how Mike found his way to New Waterloo and took a chance on the Albert.  [9:20] Who is Albert you ask? Lovingly described as "the Hill Country's last renaissance man or its first hippie,” there’s much to say about this influential and innovative man.  [14:10] Step back in time to a Saloon serving classic cocktails and a Pharmacy stocked with seasonal kolaches and sweet treats to snack on as you savor the nostalgic decor that adorns the walls.  [20:10] Luxury looks a bit different in Hill Country, focusing on an abundance of time and convenience of location, a genuine community and connection to history, “because, you don’t have to be anywhere else.” [24:40] From cozy reading nooks to modern suites designed as if you’re staying in your hip aunt’s city flat, from signature spa scents and seasonal ingredients to a sunken pool meant to mimic a Texas swimming hole, there's intention behind every detail of the Albert.  [37:20] Come hungry and leave full - of award winning southern cuisine and authentic barbecue - and fond memories shared over creative cocktails and fine wines.    Notable Mentions Hotel Emma in San Antonio Pipkin & Co Visit Fredericksburg Enchanted Rock San Saba Soap Co Chef Michael Fojtasek of MaieB Hospitality Texas’ First Michelin Guide Becker Vineyards William Chris Vineyards Side Street Hospitality Vaudeville Living Visit For Yourself Albert Hotel Website | @alberthotelfbgtx @pharmacyfbgtx | @saloonfbgtx | @junebugs_bbq  New Waterloo Website | @newwaterloo Stay In Good Company Website

    51 分鐘
  4. S7. | E9. The Swag & Cataloochee Ranch | Great Smoky Mountains, NC | Annie Colquitt Shares A Timeless Thanksgiving Story Of Family And Friendship

    11月28日

    S7. | E9. The Swag & Cataloochee Ranch | Great Smoky Mountains, NC | Annie Colquitt Shares A Timeless Thanksgiving Story Of Family And Friendship

    “And I would say for me, there's only a very small number of times where I really felt convicted that this is the path for me in life. This is the thing I'm supposed to do. And this was one of those moments where it just felt really clear. Getting to buy The Swag, it wasn't like it was a dream come true, because I don't think I had bold enough or big enough dreams to dream that. It was beyond a dream.” We’re in great company with Annie Colquitt, who along with her husband David, became stewards of both The Swag and Cataloochee Ranch, two mountaintop resorts bordering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, where they have continued a heritage of hospitality while elevating the comforts and cuisine of these intimate hideaways. Together, Annie and David dreamt of owning a modest family business together, but what they ended up with was so much more - sharing their passion for travel, their love for the outdoors, their talent for hospitality, their craft for luxury accommodations, and their commitment to the community - with guests from around the world.  In the spirit of Thanksgiving, Annie shares a humble and honest story of how these two Relais & Châteaux honored resorts came to be and how far she and her family are willing to go to ensure they stand strong for generations to come - no matter what other storms they may weather.  Top Takeaways [3:25] From becoming best friends to falling in love, from raising their children to building a family business together, Annie and David’s story is a source of laughter and learning for us all.  [6:40] A multigenerational friendship with the Matthews family, a memorable honeymoon and a handshake deal later, how Annie and David found themselves the new stewards of The Swag, “this was one of those moments where it just felt really clear, this is the path for me in life.”  [15:15] With little experience and lots to learn, Annie and David found themselves presented with the opportunity to own their neighboring property, the Cataloochee Ranch, beloved by the Alexander family for generations, yet in search for a new vision.  [19:05] The history of The Swag and Cataloochee Ranch can be seen, heard and felt throughout their winding halls, in the stories of returning guests and tenured staff, in the warm welcome of their timeless aesthetics.  [22:40] The Swag experience is built atop a mountain summit on meaningful history, connected community, rejuvenating amenities and breathtaking scenery. [30:45] Cataloochee Ranch is an old frontier made new, mixing classic ranch fun with exceptional accommodations and cuisine, inspiring a sense of adventure across all generations.   [39:15] In light of recent events, the devastation that Hurricane Helene left Western North Carolina in, Annie and David are a beacon of hope, giving over two million dollars to the recovery, restoration and rebuilding efforts of their surrounding community. Notable Mentions Hemphill Bald Trail Gooseberry Knob 2024 & 2025 Experts in Residence Chef Jeb Aldrich at Switchback Visit For Yourself The Swag Website | @theswagnc Cataloochee Ranch Website | @cataloocheeranch  Stay In Good Company Website

    56 分鐘
  5. S7. | E8. Camp Wandawega | Elkhorn, Wisconsin | Tereasa Surratt’s American Getaway For Creatives To Gather Off Grid And Step Back In Time

    11月21日

    S7. | E8. Camp Wandawega | Elkhorn, Wisconsin | Tereasa Surratt’s American Getaway For Creatives To Gather Off Grid And Step Back In Time

    “It's not really the place that you're going, it's the stories that reveal themselves in the place that you're going. You're fascinated by the lives and the experiences that people had before you, because you're finding this connective tissue emotionally to another generation, another decade, another era.” We’re in great company with Tereasa Surratt, the Founder and Owner of Camp Wandawega, who was persuaded by her husband, David, twenty years ago to save this pocket of American history tucked away in the woods of Wisconsin, and they have been restoring it ever since as a getaway for the creative community. What was once an infamous lakeside property - living many lives over time as a brothel and speakeasy, a family resort, a Catholic retreat center and summer camp - was left to be condemned until David’s childhood nostalgia got the best of him. Today, Camp Wandawega has become a retreat for creatives to gather, a maker of goods that help us explore the great outdoors, and a place to step off the grid and back in time. In this episode, Tereasa shares how a passion for preservation and a humility for the never ending work to be done, turned into a Reveille attracting other likeminded creatives to seek inspiration from and memories made in nature. Top Takeaways [1:40] Tereasa and her husband, David, spent the last few decades living two lives - one as executives in Chicago’s advertising industry and the other restoring an abandoned camp in Wisconsin. After “burning the candle at both ends” they went all in on what would become Camp Wandawega.  [5:55] Read or Listen to 100 years of a celebrated American Getaway, which has lived so many lives and worn so many layers - from a modest lakeside resort to a rambunctious brothel and speakeasy, from a family friendly Catholic retreat center to the timeless camp it has become today. [7:35] How Camp Wandawega fell into David and Tereasa’s hands…not by design, but by accident and by inheritance.  [15:20] Close your eyes and imagine getting lost amidst the woods, strolling along the hiking paths from numerous cabins to a sprawling lakefront - as Tereasa visualizes a tour of Camp Wandawega - where the focus has been to preserve and restore, rather than trying to recreate and renovate. [20:15] Tereasa and David realized early on that everyone is looking for different experiences, coming with different expectations. Thus, taking pride in their no frills accommodations, they set out to create the Manifesto of Low Expectations, setting the humorous tone for making fun memories.  [30:45] There are so many surprises in store during your Camp Wandawega stay, so be sure to pull out the drawers, open the cabinets, peek in closets, and immerse yourself as you discover an era gone by.  [33:00] Snack and sip in good company - from the Canteen stocked with old fashioned packaged goods reminiscent of your childhood, to the Farm Stand showcasing the bounty of Wisconsin’s seasonal produce, to the curated picnic baskets and meals prepared by local chefs and bakers, growers and makers.  Notable Mentions All Together Now The Elegant Farmer Solemn Oath Brewery Chef Joe Flamm of Rose Mary Chef John Manion of El Che & Brasero  Stock Campfire Jamboree  Shoppable Collaborations The Tie Bar accessories  Wally’s camping gear Into The Woods bedding Chicago Pop Up Visit For Yourself Camp Wandawega Website | @campwandawega  American Getaway Podcast | Wandawega Historical Society Wandawega Camp Store | CW Books  Tereasa Surratt Website | Tereasa Surratt on Intro Stay In Good Company Website

    47 分鐘
  6. S7. | E7. FLOHOM | East Coast, USA | Brian Meyer Is Raising The Tide For Immersive Waterfront Experiences With His Luxury Floating Homes

    11月14日

    S7. | E7. FLOHOM | East Coast, USA | Brian Meyer Is Raising The Tide For Immersive Waterfront Experiences With His Luxury Floating Homes

    “I'm an extreme version, but the water is my life. It's where I live. It's what I do to work out. It's where I go to think. So it solves pretty much all aspects of my life of what keeps me motivated, keeps me fit, keeps me well minded. And I think naturally, most people would say the water has some special power of connecting and making someone feel good.” We’re in great company with Brian Meyer, the Co-Founder and CEO of FLOHOM, a collection of immersive waterfront experiences for vacationers and staycationers alike to enjoy the comforts of elevated hospitality while docked in the lively harbors of Baltimore, Annapolis and Washington, DC. Whether you are seeking to submerge in relaxing and refreshing accommodations, or in search of a jumping off point for exploration and adventure, FLOHOM welcomes you aboard their floating homes and into their community of water-loving wanderers.  In this episode, Brian shares how a life spent on the water embracing the change in tides, has led him to not only pursue his own dream of waterfront living, but to make this dream a reality for all those looking for our home away from shore.   Top Takeaways [2:00] Brian was a fish out of water as a child growing up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland - always looking for a reason to waterski, wakeboard or surf - which led him to go to school in Hawaii where he was introduced to outrigger canoes - before returning home to start a community around paddleboarding, Capital SUP.  [7:30] Recognizing the impact these social watersports had on the local community, Brian then started the Live Water Foundation to give Veterans, people with disabilities, and underserved youth a chance to enjoy this lifestyle, ensuring the local waterways were protected with clean water initiatives.  [10:15] When Brian went to look for a waterfront home himself, he quickly learned his budget was well below the price for these types of properties, until he began to conceptualize FLOHOM with the mission to make waterfront living accessible, sustainable, and affordable. [20:00] A stay in a FLOHOM floating suite goes beyond the spacious views and luxurious amenities, with Voyager Guides and bespoke services for guests to experience all that these harbor towns have to offer right off the dock.  [32:30] The future for FLOHOM is a lifestyle brand on the water, from privately owned floating suites to entire marina resorts to an international waterfront footprint.  Notable Mentions Capital SUP Live Water Foundation  Jungalow by Justina Blakeney HostGPO and Minoan marketplaces Outer outdoor furniture  Old Bay seasoning  Hydrofoil surfboards  Visit For Yourself FLOHOM Website | @flohom_ofc @_brianmeyer  Stay In Good Company Website

    41 分鐘
  7. S7. | E6. Folly Collection | Southwest & Northeast USA | Hillary Flur Is Crafting A Harmony Between Nature And Space With Zero Compromises To The Guest Experience

    11月7日

    S7. | E6. Folly Collection | Southwest & Northeast USA | Hillary Flur Is Crafting A Harmony Between Nature And Space With Zero Compromises To The Guest Experience

    “We want people to take away a new perception of ‘off-grid living’ and what that means. So when you first think of off-grid, especially when I did it, I was like, ‘Okay, off grid. You're roughing it. Is there going to be hot water? You don't know. Is there a toilet? You don't know.’ And so we wanted to make it have zero compromises in terms of what you're experiencing.” We’re in great company with Hillary Flur, the Co-Founder of Folly Collection. Tucked away and surrounded by endless vistas, these architecturally designed spaces scattered across the US seamlessly blend into the surrounding environment, creating a harmony between nature and space, where every detail is designed to enhance our well-being. From the remote lands of Joshua Tree and Mojave Desert in California, to the lush farms of Long Island in New York, Folly Collection’s innovative off-grid systems are aesthetically captivating, environmentally responsible, and at the forefront of technological advancement. In this episode, Hillary shares how a childhood friendship with architectural designer, Malek Alqadi, turned into a creative business partnership, and how a search for a sustainable and sincere place to stay during personal travels, turned into a passion pioneering an optimistic future for hospitality.   Top Takeaways [1:50] How Hillary’s early career in customer service brought her to recognize her love of making people happy, of solving their problems, of making them feel heard.  [4:30] The Folly Collection’s humble beginnings started when childhood best friends turned business partners, sleeping on each other’s couches, going on road trips to the desert to find affordable land, and dreaming of all they could build together.  [9:10] Travel to the vast deserts and verdant landscapes of Folly Joshua Tree and Folly Mojave Desert to find yourself lost in the dark skies full of stars.  [14:25] Seasonal pop-up destinations are in store for Folly, starting with the serenity that can be found on New York’s Long Island sound.  [18:50] Folly Collection is certainly living up to its name, as ‘Folly’ in architecture is described as a whimsical structure built to serve as a conversation piece, lending interest to a view and experience. [23:55] What is the Folly Collection signature recipe you ask? A delicate balance of serene landscape complimented with sustainable architecture, minimalist aesthetics, and tech enabled amenities. [25:10] To form a collection, one must be deeply connected to their local community. And Hillary is doing exactly that - nurturing bespoke experiences, baked goods, destination dining and wellness treatments to share with her guests.   [27:00] Folly’s future is full of more experiential elements, a wishlist of secluded locations, and a tech ecosystem that is designed to reduce friction and increase immersion.  Notable Mentions 29 Loaves High Desert New York style bagels Kitchen In The Desert New American cafe grnd sqrl gastropub  Palms dive bar Visit For Yourself Folly Collection Website | @follycollection @folly.ny | @follyjoshuatree | @folly.mojave Stay In Good Company Website

    37 分鐘
  8. S7. | E5. Volcanoes Safaris | Rwanda & Uganda | Praveen Moman Is Pioneering Ecotourism And Conservation Experiences Beginning With Great Apes And Inspiring The World

    10月31日

    S7. | E5. Volcanoes Safaris | Rwanda & Uganda | Praveen Moman Is Pioneering Ecotourism And Conservation Experiences Beginning With Great Apes And Inspiring The World

    “So it's a very special experience because you're suddenly connecting to a species which you feel you know. The gorilla looks at you and you look at them and there's a very strong rapport. A kind of connection saying, ‘Haven't we seen each other before?’” We’re in great company with Praveen Moman, the pioneer in Great Ape tourism, celebrating the 25th Anniversary of his conservation and ecotourism brand, Volcanoes Safaris, where he has been at the forefront of reviving the post-conflict Uganda and Rwanda - centered around his five luxury lodges and safari experiences near the threatened gorilla and chimpanzee populations. A ‘visionary conservationist’ with numerous awards and recognitions, Praveen followed in his family’s footsteps - first pitching a tent in the wild and now 25 years later, developing lodges that are sensitive to local culture and aesthetics, and connected to the local community and conservation projects. In this episode, Praveen shares his personal love for his homeland, his professional admiration for Dian Fossey and Jane Goodall, and Volcanoes Safaris’ commitment to the protection of these safari experiences for generations to come. Top Takeaways [1:40] Praveen Moman’s childhood was unlike most yet instrumental to the man he is today. Listen as he shares his appreciation for his British education, Indian heritage and East African environment.  [10:10] First impressions are lasting impressions - especially when it comes to your first encounter with a gorilla, as Praveen learned many years ago. [15:00] To understand the positive impact Volcanoes Safaris has on the gorilla population, local economy and broader ecosystem, one must first understand the history of human interaction with the Great Ape - from initial discovery to respected research to conservation tourism - and how this model could be replicated across other destinations at risk of over-tourism.  [30:30] What started as temporary tents turned into luxury lodge accommodations, built in an instinctual way with local materials melded in a way that showed the ingenuity of the minds of their local makers.  [31:50] With 3 lodges near the mountain gorilla parks (Virunga Lodge in Rwanda, Bwindi Lodge and Mount Gahinga Lodge in Uganda) and 2 lodges focused on the chimpanzees (Kyambura Gorge Lodge and Kibale Lodge in Uganda) - each lodge is delicately balanced with what the local cuisines, cultures and traditions are, with what is palatable to an international guest. [45:30] With 98% of our DNA identical to that of gorillas, we have a duty to ensure their survival alongside ours.   Notable Mentions First gorilla sighting by German, Robert von Beringe in 1902 Creation of the national park in 1925 inspired by American, Carl Akeley Research by biologist, George Schaller  Primatologists and conservationists, Dian Fossey and Jane Goodall Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Gorilla Doctors Conservation Through Public Health Jane Goodall Institute  Adventure Travel Trade Association Visit For Yourself Volcanoes Safaris Website  Volcanoes Safaris YouTube Videos @volcanoes_safaris Stay In Good Company Website

    50 分鐘

評分與評論

5
(滿分 5 顆星)
12 則評分

簡介

Stay In Good Company is a podcast series sharing the stories of families behind independently owned and operated stays and experiences across the world. From the history of the places to the personal visions for the businesses. From the variety of experiences offered to the attention to details that make each stay truly unique. Stay In Good Company captures the fond memories and traditions, past advice and future excitement of these places. Introducing a global audience of mindful slow travelers to the welcoming hospitality of family raised and run homestays.

你可能也會喜歡

若要收聽兒少不宜的單集,請登入帳號。

隨時掌握此節目最新消息

登入或註冊後,即可追蹤節目、儲存單集和掌握最新資訊。

選取國家或地區

非洲、中東和印度

亞太地區

歐洲

拉丁美洲與加勒比海地區

美國與加拿大