The Travelers Blueprint: Episode 1-10

On this episode we talk to Steve Hackett who just got back from an incredible trip in Thailand where he not only attended, but participated in a Thai wedding between two of his close friends. He brings us through his experience on the long haul from the eastern coast of the US to Thailand and his time chaotically navigating the Bangkok airport, traffic, and city life. Then Steve breaks down some of the highlights between a culturally fascinating wedding between a Sikh groom and Hindi bride, where Steve was one of 700 guests.

On today’s episode we discuss: 

• Steve’s experience shopping through some of the beautiful commercial districts of Thailand; 
• We contemplate as to why there are so many 7/11 convenience stores in Thailand; 
• We discuss some of the preventative shots you should get prior to your departure to southeastern Asia; 
• Steve brings us back to some of the temples he visited and talks about his boat tour;  
• Steve shares his preferences on touring Thailand with some friends rather than coordinating a group tour; 
• We talk about the exciting nightlife industry on Khaosan Road and the bug-eating scene;
• We talk about the currency exchange rate and discuss some of the luxuries that come to western tourists as a result; 
• Steve discusses his time as a participant in his friends wedding in Thailand and his adjustment to the attire, food, and ceremony; 
• We learn that not only was Steve a guest to this wedding, but he was also an active participant who had to perform a choreographed dance for the bride and groom!

On this episode we break down our Top 10 list of favorite countries that we each would like to visit in the (very near) future. We provide insight on some of the major attractions for each of the destinations discussed, and the reasons behind our piqued interest. 

On this episode we talk to Florence Williams, the author of The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes us Healthier, Happier, and More Creative. 

Inside the Episode:

• How human health relates to being around nature and the scientific evidence Florence sought to support her book; 
• Florence describes her travel throughout the world and US while conducting research and her utilization of the Mappiness application;
• Florence discusses the example South Korea is setting by creating higher quality, more accessible natural spaces for its growing population through Healing Forests; 
• We touch on the impacts of “nature sounds” vs. noise pollution on the human psyche and the optimism in recent automotive technology and its impact on future urban landscapes; 
• We contemplate the future of our awareness as a civilization of the impacts nature has on us, and ponder if we are moving towards a resolution;
• We talk about several individual studies conducted throughout the world and the supporting evidence on how a better natural environment supports a happier, healthier, and less crime ridden society;
• We hear some of Florence’s optimism on the initiative several cities are taking to improve their green spaces; 
• Florence discusses her time camping and rafting with veterans and the transformation she witnessed as they battled with PTSD;
• We get into some of the positive feedback an increased amount of time outside can have on symptoms of ADHD in children; 
• We break down some of the leading cities throughout the world that are improving with green space construction and some of the lingering issues for the same type of development in the US. 
• Finally, Florence leaves us some final advice on getting out into nature!

Mel Witman discusses her experiences as a volunteer with the Peace Corps and her time living in Paraguay. Mel spent two years living alone in a third world country and the hardships she faced; including how she dealt with contaminated drinking water and limited access to electricity.

**Side Note: We realize there are several moments in this podcast where the audio was less than perfect. We are working towards resolving this issue with the audio in the future. Thanks for understanding**

Inside the Episode:

• How to sign up for the Peace Corp and what to expect after you’re in;
• The purpose of Peace Corp’s presence in Paraguay and Mel’s assignment; 
• The political climate in Paraguay;
• Dealing with feminine hygiene in a third world country where products are limited; 
• Tips on connecting with locals abroad;
• How to deal with a contaminated drinking supply; 
• The lack of culinary option in Paraguay and adjusting as a vegetarian; 
• The difference between languages in Paraguay -  guarani vs. spanish; and
• Traveling to the San Blas Islands.

Lina Montopoli divulges her decision to bike 900 miles alone along the Pan American Highway. Her journey through the Patagonian countryside is incredibly inspiring and when you find out she really didn't plan any of this trip in advanced you’ll be even more impressed!

**Side Note: We realize there are several moments in this podcast where the audio was less than perfect. We are working towards resolving this issue with the audio in the future. Thanks for understanding** 

Inside the Episode:

• How to prepare for a long distance bike ride;
• Navigating the Pan American Highway by bike and the difficulty of finding places to rest;
• Packing light (very light) for a trip abroad;
• How and why you should have peace of mind on a spontaneous trip;
• What it’s like to meet people abroad and spend a night in their home, especially as a solo woman traveler; 
• When a travel book may be useful during your trip;
• Discussing the benefits of using Couchsurfing; 
• The safety and certainty provided by using ride sharing services; 
• Adapting and overcoming hardships on the road; and
• We make a pact to go on a bike tour of our own one day!