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Bergen, Norway and solo travel in your prime

Today, we'll talk about Bergen, Norway. The FAQ is:  Julie asked: How can I pack for several seasons in the same small pack? Answer: It’s going to be a challenge if you are moving to different zones in your trip. When I was in South Africa in June, the winter weather was a challenge, as there was no heat in the homes where I stayed. I used hot water bottles in bed at night. I also wore all of my clothes. A week later, I was in Greece and gave away the warm clothes to a new friend from England. She was a South Korean, grateful. You can experiment with what you need right away and then buy additional items later on, as I did.  Also, consider shipping a package with your warmer clothes to your destination.  If you need more professional clothing, you can check your bag on the plane, but I rarely do so because of the cost and the time you have to wait at the airport. 60-second confidence challenge Your challenge today Confidence Challenge in Bergen: The biggest cha...
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Best of Mexico (From the Archives)

This podcast series helped launch the now famous book series, Five Steps to Solo Travel . Now you are able to listen to one of the eariest versions of the show, and it's still relevant today. This episode takes you to Baja, Mexico . You will learn to drive to Ensenada, the Valle de Guadalupe and other destinations. Find your confidence through the FAQ's and also my mistakes and errors, so you won't make the same ones.  This is snackable, without any filters, just a great listen for you now.  Follow Dr. Travelbest here on your favorite channel, on TikTok, on IG and FB. We have an engaged audience of folks like you, who want to go places. This was episode #2 and now I am on episode 340 . I would love the feedback and your reviews. They mean a lot to me, so go ahead now. In advance, I am sending thanks. Check out this episode!
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Quito, Ecuador and packing for South America

  FAQ:” Let’s quickly address how to pack for South America. If you are in the winter, it's summer, so you don’t need many clothes; pack light. I only took a personal item, but I had to wash it often, and I had only one pair of sneakers. No laptop. It helped me travel quickly and efficiently on planes, trains, and buses. In their winter, our summer, you should have many layers and a raincoat. I was able to buy what I needed or forgot while I was there, and the dollar was strong. On my first trip to South America, about 30 years ago, I went skiing in Chile, and I had to bring everything with me; I needed it all. If you are planning a snowy destination, be prepared. You can also buy it after you arrive, for the most part, should you forget something important.   60-second confidence challenge   If you like today’s Confidence Challenge, my book series dives deeper into health and sickness while traveling solo—link in description.”  See Book A, for addressing thi...
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Niagara Falls, Canada

This is Dr. Mary Travelbest, and we'll be talking about Niagara Falls, Canada. See Book A for guidance on saving money on airline tickets and more. Destination Deep‑Dive Today’s destination is: “A Day at Niagara Falls – Solo, Soaked & Spectacular” Today, we're diving into the thundering wonder that is Niagara Falls, from a solo female traveler’s lens — and yes, I got a little wet. On the Road to the Falls I took the FlixBus from Toronto to Niagara Falls. The ride is scenic and comfortable, even with a bit of drama—my Toronto Metro train broke down this morning. I had to get off and wait for a new train, adding 10 minutes of stress, but I made it to Union Station with 10 minutes to spare. Assigned seats on the FlixBus? Yes, but only six of us are aboard. Arrival and First Impressions Niagara Falls is hot, humid, and packed with tourists, but the moment you see those Horseshoe Falls, it’s all worth it. There are three waterfalls here: Horseshoe, American, and Bridal V...
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Best of Dr. Mary Travelbest - Dr. Travelbest History plus solo vs group travel

This episode aired in 2022, so if you missed it, find out more about the origins of the Dr. Mary Travelbest story. We are now on episode 350 and counting, so let us hear from you. @drmarytravelbest   Give a gift of solo travel to a loved one. Find out more....   Thanks for Connecting further with Dr. Travelbest 5 Steps to Solo Travel website Dr. Mary Travelbest X Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast Dr. Travelbest on TikTok Dr.Travelbest onYouTube In the news   Check out this episode!
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Lima Peru and airport luxiury lounges

This is Dr. Mary Travelbest. I help you travel. The 60-second confidence challenge is on getting access to the airport lounges. It will take some experience, but it’s worth it. Check the fine print, too.   If you like today’s Confidence Challenge, my book series dives deeper into best practices while traveling solo—link in description.”    See Book A for addressing this challenge. Find it on the website​​ at https://www.5stepstosolotravel.com/ or on Amazon. It’s a several-part series. Today’s special destination is Lima, Peru. Hello, solo travelers—especially my sisters 50 and up. Today I’m sharing my honest, boots-on-the-ground experience in Lima, Peru. It wasn’t all smooth sailing, but it was absolutely worthwhile—and full of kindness, learning, and little victories. Connect with Dr. Travelbest 5 Steps to Solo Travel website Dr. Mary Travelbest X Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram Dr. Mary ...
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Cartagena, Colombia and safety in South America

Cartagena, Colombia. Today, we're heading to Cartagena, Colombia —a vibrant and touristy Caribbean city bursting with color, music, and history. It's one of the most popular destinations on South America's northern coast — and I'll share my experiences and a few lessons learned for solo travelers like you. Get ready to immerse yourself in a culture that's as lively as it is rich. Let's start with the setting. Cartagena's Walled City — La Ciudad Amurallada — is the heart of it all. I recommend exploring early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat. You can pick up a free map at your hostel or a tourist stand. Inside the walls, you'll find cobblestone streets, cannons facing the sea, and church courtyards like San Pedro Claver, where you can sit in the shade and people-watch. For sunset, head to the top of the wall near Café del Mar — it's a magical view of the Caribbean, and you'll see locals and travelers ga...
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