Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

Best of San Luis Obispo, California

  Today’s Destination is: Best of San Luis Obispo   Connect with Dr Travelbest Drmarytravelbest.com Dr. Mary Travelbest Twitter Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram email: [email protected] Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast Dr. Travelbest on TikTok Dr.Travelbest onYouTube

Bremerton, Washington and getting unstuck in travel planning

In this episode: FAQ is: I get lost all the time, so how can I travel without getting frustrated and upset? I want to have fun and not fear making a mistake. Today’s Destination is: Bremerton, WA Today’s Mistake- Mixing up my cities in Washington State   Travel Advice:  Stuck in your planning? FAQ: I always get lost, so how can I travel without getting frustrated and upset? I want to have fun and not fear making a mistake. Answer: Like you, I get lost all the time. I’ve got a terrib...

Chickamauga National Park: Part 2 of Chattanooga Guide

Today’s Destination: Chickamauga National Park: Part 2 of Chattanooga episode. Today’s Misstep- Driving over hills, a tire came at us Travel Advice: What exercises should I do when I travel?   FAQ: What do you wish you knew before booking your flight?   Response: A few more questions you can ask someone before you plan your trip are:  Did you experience any frustrations related to the destination or the actual traveling? If so, what should people be aware of to avoid those frus...

Chattanooga, Tennessee

  In this episode, the FAQ is: How can I take a walking tour when I arrive in a city? . 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...

Estes Park, Colorado

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. ...

Akureyri and Northern Iceland

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...

Louisville, and the Kentucky Derby

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...

"Solo Journeys in India: Navigating the Transport Tapestry via tuk-tuks, trains and planes….”

"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 Trav...

"Table for One: Dining Tips and Tricks for Solo Female Travelers"

  "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 d...

Dr. Mary Travelbest - San Francisco Airport 1

In this episode:  FAQ: What questions should you ask someone you know who traveled somewhere you like? Destination: San Francisco Airport "Wings and Wanderlust: Solo Female Traveler's Guide to SFO" Today’s Mistake- I left my phone on the airline counter at the SFO airport. Travel Advice:  Relax in the Airport Yoga Room, if in SFO anyway…. FAQ: What questions should you ask someone you know who traveled somewhere you like?    Answers 1 or 2   1. Ask the right questions if you...

San Francisco Airport "Wings and Wanderlust"

In this episode:  FAQ: What questions should you ask someone you know who traveled somewhere you like? Destination: San Francisco Airport "Wings and Wanderlust: Solo Female Traveler's Guide to SFO" Today’s Mistake- I left my phone on the airline counter at the SFO airport. Travel Advice:  Relax in the Airport Yoga Room, if in SFO anyway…. FAQ: What questions should you ask someone you know who traveled somewhere you like?    Answers 1 or 2   1. Ask the right questions if you...

Dr. Mary Travelbest - Osaka Japan

In this episode: FAQ: What do you do when a significant change in weather interrupts your travel?   Destination: Osaka, Japan Today’s Mistake- My global entry card has my name wrong. Travel Advice:  Use AI when planning your next trip FAQ: A Facebook group member asked us, “What do you do when a significant change in weather interrupts your travel?” Answer: Unexpected weather changes are not uncommon, but they can still pose a challenge when traveling, especially when solo. If ...

Osaka Japan

In this episode: FAQ: What do you do when a significant change in weather interrupts your travel?   Destination: Osaka, Japan Today’s Mistake- My global entry card has my name wrong. Travel Advice:  Use AI when planning your next trip FAQ: A Facebook group member asked us, “What do you do when a significant change in weather interrupts your travel?” Answer: Unexpected weather changes are not uncommon, but they can still pose a challenge when traveling, especially when solo. If ...

Dr. Mary Travelbest - National Park Service and Foundation 2024

Today’s Mistake- I was a stunt woman at Universal Studios and ended up in the hospital. Travel Advice:  Always pack a bathing suit.   Today’s destination: National Park Foundation and Service   I support the National Park Service in the USA by purchasing a yearly wall calendar. The images are beautiful. I also have a Senior Pass, which you can get for your lifetime, starting at age 62. Buy it at any park or online. Don’t lose it. It’s worth a lot for your traveling. Membership has ...

National Park Service and Foundation

Today’s Mistake- I was a stunt woman at Universal Studios and ended up in the hospital. Travel Advice:  Always pack a bathing suit.   Today’s destination: National Park Foundation and Service   I support the National Park Service in the USA by purchasing a yearly wall calendar. The images are beautiful. I also have a Senior Pass, which you can get for your lifetime, starting at age 62. Buy it at any park or online. Don’t lose it. It’s worth a lot for your traveling. Membership has ...

Best of Cairns Australia

South Goa India Plus masking up, losing my credit card, getting massages

In this episode, FAQ is: When do I need a mask? Today’s Destination is: South Goa, India Today’s Misstep- I left my credit card behind. Travel Advice: Get a massage FAQ: When do I need a mask in 2024 Guidelines for wearing face masks vary depending on the current status of the COVID-19 pandemic and local regulations. It's essential to stay informed about the latest guidance from health authorities such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prev...

North Goa, India Plus increasing brain power, my missteps

In this episode, FAQ is: Amanda asked me, How can I increase my brain power, mental memory and travel better?   Today’s Destination is: North Goa, India Today’s Misstep- Tripped on a curb going up. FAQ: Response For solo travelers, Improving brain power, memory, and cognitive capacity while traveling involves a combination of lifestyle habits, mental exercises, and proper nutrition. Here are some tips that enhanced my cognitive abilities on the go: Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can ...

Masada and Red Sea, Israel Plus eSIM cards, screenshot your map, money belts

This episode's FAQ is: Do I need a local SIM card? Today’s Destination is The Dead Sea and Masada, Israel Today’s Misstep- Screenshot your MAP before you travel Travel Advice: Wear a money belt. FAQ: Do I need a local SIM card? Response: When you travel abroad, you don’t need a local SIM card anymore. It’s found in nearly every airport and is expensive, but you get your own phone number. It does involve opening your phone up.   Read the show notes if you want to try an esim and...

Tel Aviv, Israel Plus how to rent an apartment abroad, transfer smootly, carry a pen

  Today’s Destination is: Tel Aviv, Israel Today’s Misstep- Missing a smooth transfer from one transportation mode to another Travel Advice: Carry a pen   FAQ: One of our Facebook group members asked for locations where she could live for 3-9 months in 2025. She wants tips on renting her condo, renting abroad past the AirBNB. She says she is open to anywhere, walkability, airport nearby, public transportation, and pools for swimming are her priorities. Can I help her?   Yes. Thos...

Jerusalem,Israel Plus have fun planning your trip, don't pet a moose

In this episode, FAQ is: How do I get from A to B when planning a trip? It sounds so easy, so what’s the big deal? Today’s Special Series Destination is Jerusalem, Israel, part 1 of three on Israel Today’s Misstep- Petting a moose. Don’t do it. Travel Advice: Planning a trip can be half of the fun. FAQ: How do I get from A to B when planning a trip? It sounds so easy, so what’s the big deal? Response: It is a big deal if you’ve never done it. You have to know your geography. So, fi...

Kerala, India Plus stretching tips for solo travel, mistakes and stuffing the pillow

In this episode, FAQ is: What are the best stretching methods for solo travel. Today’s Destination is: Kerala, India Today’s Misstep- I did not get to use my airline credits on Spirit. Travel Advice: U-shaped airline pillows can be stuffed with clothes. FAQ:  What are the best stretching methods for solo travel? Stretching offers several benefits for your solo female traveler's body, including improvements in flexibility, range of motion, and overall well-being. Here are some way...

Hyderabad, India Plus adapting to food, nail polish, gratitude

In this episode, FAQ is: What if I don’t like the food? Today’s Destination is: Hyderabad, India Today’s Misstep- Wrong color nail polish Travel Advice: Grateful before happy FAQ: What if I don’t like the food?   Answer:  You mostly will, but if not, have a plan. If you find yourself not enjoying the food in a travel destination, there are several things you can do to make your dining experience more enjoyable: Explore hyper-local options: Try different restaurants and eateries ...

Chennai, India Plus Venmo, stolen sneakers, and socks on the plane

In this episode, FAQ is: What are the advantages and disadvantages of Venmo? Today’s Destination is: Chennai Today’s Misstep- Stolen sneakers in Acalpulco Travel Advice: Carry socks on the plane FAQ: What are the advantages and disadvantages of Venmo? Venmo, like any financial service, has both positive and negative aspects. The perception of whether Venmo is considered good or bad can vary based on individual preferences, needs, and experiences. Here are some factors to consider: ...

Agra, India plus learning customs before travel, travel tips and mishaps

In this episode, FAQ is: How can I learn about a country’s customs before I visit there?   Today’s Destination is: Agra, India Today’s Misstep- I took the wrong bus to the airport in Reykjavik. Travel Advice: Petroleum Jelly has many uses for travelers, so save space and money, simply.   FAQ: How can I learn about a country’s customs before I visit there? I will give you five answers to that question, and for some European countries, this will be easier; when it comes to Step 4 a...

Dr. Mary Travelbest - Best of Thousand Oaks and First Time Solo Travelers

In this episode: .The FAQ is: How can I travel solo for the first time? Today’s Destination Thousand Oaks California   Today’s Mistake- Too tired when you get home from a trip and can't find your parking ticket or keys Travel Advice:   Safety After Dark   In this episode: FAQ How can I travel solo for the first time? Answer: The first step for traveling solo for the first time is to pick a small destination such as one night in the next state. don't bite off too much...

Dr. Mary Travelbest - Venice Italy

In this episode, The Venice Episode,     FAQ’s are:   1. What about the possibility that the museums and galleries may not accurately represent the true history and experiences of these famous individuals?   2. Have you considered tourism's impact on preserving historical landmarks and artifacts and is it sinking?   3. How would you address those who argue that the cultural significance of these figures is exaggerated or overemphasized in the tourism industry?   The answe...

Dr. Mary Travelbest - Sustainable Travel

Travel best Special Episode on Sustainable Travel This is Dr. Travelbest   Think in years… If you think you’ll live to be 120, you will take better care of the planet. You will take better care of your friendships and your health, too.   Even if you don’t live to 120, what’s the harm? I care about being energy aware when I fly and conserving resources. Flying Atlanta to Seattle to San Diego was a waste of many resources, but that was the routing on Alaska Airlines. They have sin...

Dr. Mary Travelbest - Reykjavik Iceland

In this episode, FAQ is: I’ll be going to India soon. What are some ways to prepare for that trip? Today’s Destination is Reykjavik, Iceland Today’s Mistake- Biggest Windstorms in Iceland Travel Advice:  Save Money by grocery shopping   FAQ: I’ll be going to India soon. What are some ways to prepare for that trip? Answer: To prepare for a trip to India, see if you know anyone who lives there now. It’s the world’s most populated country. Consider talking to them about your trave...

Dr. Mary Travelbest - Fort Bragg CA

Today’s destination: Fort Bragg, California   Fort Bragg is nestled along the stunning Northern California coastline. Whether you drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway or opt for a flight, Fort Bragg welcomes you with its coastal charm. Settle into the serenity of local inns and bed and breakfasts that grace Fort Bragg. Consider accommodations like an Airbnb, VBRO, or chain hotel nearby for a restful retreat with the soothing sounds of the nearby ocean. Before venturing into t...

Dr. Mary Travelbest - Julian CA

This episode's FAQ is: I have no vacation time and want to travel. What would you suggest? Today’s Destination is Julian, CA Today’s Mistake- Not carrying a second payment option Travel Advice:  Bring earplugs   FAQ: I have no vacation time, and I want to travel. What would you suggest? Answers: I have felt this way often. You should find a job with more flexibility and rewards results, not just for being present and punching the clock. If you want to do both, consider a job requi...

Dr. Mary Travelbest - Suva Fiji

In this episode, the FAQ is: Should I travel while I am still working or wait until retirement? Today’s Destination is Suva, Fiji. Today’s Mistake- Eating expired food. Travel Advice:  travel in a circle for the best time management. FAQ: Should I travel while still working or wait until retirement? Both options have their benefits. If you are currently employed and have a steady income, it might be a good idea to travel now as you would be able to manage the expenses of traveling. ...

Dr. Mary Travelbest - Glasgow Scotland

This episode's FAQ is: How do I know what to pack? Today’s Destination is Glasgow, Scotland Today’s Mistake- Bee stings  Travel Advice:  Limit yourself to one book   FAQ: How do I know what to pack?   Answer: It’s a common question, so let’s tackle it.   Look at the weather forecast for the city where you are going. Consider the types of activities you plan to do. Remember, you can always buy, rent, or even borrow from someone when you get there in case you don’t have the r...

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap, Cambodia     I’ve returned from a 90-day trip around the globe to every time zone on the planet. My mission is world peace through cultural exchange.   In this episode, the FAQ is: How can I stay hydrated when it’s humid and hot? . Today’s Destination is Siem Reap, Cambodia Today’s Mistake- Taking the long way instead of a more direct flight. Travel Advice: Practice Google Maps on foot before you leave on your trip   FAQ: How can I stay hydrated? ...

Nacpan Beach, El Nido, Philippines

Nacpan Beach, El Nido, Philippines     In this episode, the FAQ is: How should I celebrate my birthday when on a trip? . Today’s Destination is El Nido, Philippines, Part 1, Nacpan Beach Today’s Mistake- Getting a bug in my ear Travel Advice: Renew that passport   FAQ:  How should I celebrate my birthday when on a trip?   Answer: Happy Birthday. It would be best if you undoubtedly celebrated it, especially when you are traveling. Make sure you have plenty of...

Kinsale, Ireland

Kinsale, Ireland     In this episode, FAQ is: Where was your favorite place on your 90-day trip? . Today’s Destination is Kinsale, Ireland Today’s Mistake- Leaving my phone at the San Francisco airport counter Travel Advice: Keep your cool, especially when it’s hot.   FAQ: Where was your favorite place on your 90-day trip?   Answer: I can’t give you a favorite place overall, but I can give you one for each country. Let me start with the first country, the Phil...

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Phnom Penh, Cambodia     I’ve been on a 90-day trip to every time zone around the globe. My mission is world peace through cultural exchange. I was sustainable when I could by using local transportation, buses, and trains. I was solo, carrying a small backpack, called a “personal item,” that fit under the seat in front of me on a plane.   In this episode, the FAQ is: Should I bring earplugs on my trip? . Today’s Destination is Phnom Penh, Cambodia Today’s Mistake- I left...

Special Episode: Hotels in Del Mar, CA

Special Episode: Hotels in Del Mar, CA   Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide, for women like you who need extra support traveling (slowly) one woman at a time. Please share this podcast with your mom, aunts, and friends. I appreciate your feedback.   I’ve returned from a 90-day trip around the globe to every time zone on the planet. My mission is world peace through cultural exchange. I was sustainable when I could by using local transportation, buses, ...

Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Mekong Delta, Vietnam   Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide for women like you who need extra support traveling (slowly) one woman at a time. Please share this podcast with your mom, aunts, and friends. I appreciate your feedback.   I’ve returned from a 90-day trip around the globe to every time zone on the planet. My mission is world peace through cultural exchange. I was sustainable when I could by using local transportation, buses, and trains. I was ...

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam   Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide for women like you who need extra support traveling (slowly) one woman at a time. Please share this podcast with your mom, aunts, and friends. I appreciate your feedback.   I’ve returned from a 90-day trip around the globe to every time zone on the planet. My mission is world peace through cultural exchange. I was sustainable when I could by using local transportation, buses, and trains. I ...

90 Days Around the World Part 2

Special Edition of Dr. Travelbest Podcast: Part  2     Responses to Your Questions….. About the Around the Globe adventure that I recently took.    7. What did you learn about yourself?   I learned that making decisions is probably the best skill to have when traveling solo. Unless I made a decision, I was not going anywhere. I also learned that I could do a lot more than I had expected of myself.  Resiliency was one of my takeaways from this adventure.   8. Often, when we ...

90 Days Around the World Part 1

Special Editions of Dr. Travelbest Podcast: Part 1 of 2    Responses to Your Questions….. About the Around the Globe adventure that I recently took.     1. Tell me about your 90-day adventure. How long had you waited to go on this adventure?   I took a 90-day trip to every time zone in the world, starting in San Diego to the Philippines, Asia, and finishing in Iceland. It was from May 7 to August 7 when I arrived in Seattle. I was on 18 airlines, flew out of 25 airports, and ha...

Solvang, CA

FAQ: Where do I start as a solo traveler?   Destination : Solvang, CA Today’s Mistake-booking the wrong return flight Travel Advice:  Use air tags or similar tools to track your baggage. FAQ: A grandma asked me last week, “Where do I start as a solo traveler?”   Today’s destination: Solvang, CA   Today’s Mistake- booking the wrong return flight Download Apple’s Tracker Detect app from the Google Play store to scan for nearby AirTags. Hopefully, one of them is yours. Co...

Best of Puerta Vallarta, Mexico

Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest: In this episode: The FAQ is how to avoid blisters on your feet. The destination is Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The mistake is my friend who went hiking alone and regrets that now and the tip is about drinking fluids. The FAQ is: Laura has a lot of blisters after she hikes. She asked me, “How can I avoid these blisters and enjoy my walks more?” Answer: What’s a blister in the first place? A blister is a pocket of fluid between the upper layers of skin. The m...

Park City, Utah

Faq: Do I need to carry copies of my passport? Do I need an extra six months for expiration before I travel?   Destination: Park City, Utah Today’s Mistake- I booked the wrong airline travel date Travel Advice:  What you must not bring in your carry-on. Today’s destination: Park City, Utah   Skiing is usually powder, which is the best! Read More: https://www.housedigest.com/860966/take-a-tour-of-robert-redfords-30-acre-utah-ranch-that-sold-for-6-5-million/   Today’s Mist...

Best of Duluth, Georgia

In this episode: FAQ is: What are my favorite travel apps? Today’s Destination is: Duluth, Georgia Today’s Mistake- Broken ear buds Travel Advice:  Sit in an exit row on the plane for more leg room.   FAQ: What are my favorite travel apps?   Answer: My favorite travel apps are the airline that I am traveling on that day, rideshare apps like Uber/Lyft, public transportation apps wherever I am. When in Atlanta, it’s MARTA, in San Diego, it’s PRONTO,  Expedia, plus Turo. Expedia...

National Park Service-USA

Destination Special episode National Park Service   Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide for women like you who need a little extra support traveling the world (slowly), one woman at a time.   Here are the show notes for you from Dr. Mary Travelbest. FAQ: Can I be a pet sitter and stay for free at someone’s home?   In this special episode: the National Park Service Today’s Mistake- Don’t be a stunt woman at Universal Studios, LA Travel Advice:  Towe...

Denver 2.0 2023

FAQ:  How has traveling changed my family life? In this episode: Denver 2.0 Today’s Mistake- Getting lost and then found Travel Advice:  Laminate your essential travel documents   FAQ:   How has traveling changed my family life?   Today’s destination: Denver, 2.0  2023 edition   https://www.denver.org/things-to-do/itineraries/denver-in-3-days/   The Crawford Hotel , Denver International Airport     https://www.outtherecolorado.com/things-to-do/buffalo-overlook/ ...

Death Valley, California

In this episode: the destination is Death Valley, CA Today’s Mistake- Bee sting on my face Travel Advice:  Read travel books by the dozens FAQ:  Today’s destination: Death Valley   https://www.desertusa.com/wildflo/ca_dv.html Today’s Mistake- I got a bee sting on my face.   Today’s Travel Advice-Read travel books by the dozens.     Connect with Dr. Travelbest Drmarytravelbest.com Dr. Mary Travelbest Twitter Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page Dr. Mary Travelbest F...

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest FAQ: "I have never left South Africa and will travel to Colorado and Arizona this summer. Dr. Mary Travelbest, do you have any recommendations or tips for visiting there? Destination: Chapel Hill, North Carolina Today’s Mistake- Breaking a glass pitcher mug Travel Advice:  Soap strips, like Listerine packs. clotheslines with pins to dry? FAQ: "I have never left South Africa before, and will be traveling to Colorado and Arizona this summer. Dr. Mary Tr...