Dr. Mary Travelbest

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. O

"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, includ

  "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

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 want to get good responses to your questions about others' travels. Instead of “How was it?” ask something new and unique. “Would you like to revisit those places or any other part of the country?" would be an excellent question. OR 2. If you could only re-live five minutes of the trip, which 5 minutes would it be? https://thewanderbug.com/how-was-it-10-better-questions-to-ask-a-traveller/ Today’s destination: San Francisco Airport I began my around-the-world journey at the

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 I were faced with a sudden shift from sunny and warm to rainy and cold weather while on a trip, I would adapt my plans to make the most of the situation. I would check for appropriate clothing to stay warm and dry in inclement weather, including wearing layers of sweaters, jackets, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy shoes that can withstand wet conditions. Keeping myself comfortable and protected from the elements would be my top priority. You check your notes and look for indoor activities or attractions.

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 its perks! That includes free admission.   Have you been to Yosemite? Yellowstone? Are there any other parks? Which are your favorite? Here are some tips on getting in and having a great visit.   Making reservations and listening to park guides will help. You might even want to get a job working at a national park someday.  National parks offer many experiences, from serene hikes through lush forests to breathtaking vistas atop rugged mountains. To begin your journey, it's essential to establi

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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 Prevention (CDC), and other relevant local health departments. The need to wear a face mask can depend on factors like the prevalence of COVID-19 in your community, vaccination rates, and new variants. Additionally, guidelines may change in response to emerging data and public health considerations. It's common for health authorities to recommend wearing face masks in crowded indoor settings, in hospitals and health care offices, on public transportation, and in places where social distancing may b

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 impair cognitive function, so drink enough water throughout the day. Healthy Nutrition: Consume a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Foods with antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins can support brain health. Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough quality sleep, as it plays a crucial role in memory consolidation and cognitive function. Physical Exercise: Regular exercise increases blood flow to the brain, promoting the growth of new

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 need help. I’ve been using an esim called Airalo for a year, and I have a referral code for you to save $3.00. It is MARY2856.   https://www.airalo.com/blog/roaming-vs-international-sim-card-vs-local-sim-card-heres-what-to-know     Today’s destination: Israel (split into three parts, Jerusalem, Dead Sea/ Masada, and Tel Aviv. This episode is part 2 of three.   Because I was a solo female traveler, I booked a full-day tour of the Dead Sea and Masada. On my tour, I asked, “Where is the West Bank

  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. Those are some great questions. First, where could you live? Next, rent the condo and then rent something for yourself abroad.   Living-Pick the area you like based on your tastes. I’d select Southeast Asia now because it is reasonably priced and relatively safe, and many English-speaking people live there.    Renting your condo- Finding the right person could be a lot of work. So ask your friends first. Who needs space for up to a year? Work out an arrangement to be away for that period and make a contra

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, find a map and see the distance, the terrain, and transportation choices. You may be discouraged if you have never been to places A or B. Take it a bit at a time. Don’t try to swallow a watermelon whole. Eat one piece, and then see how you do. My book has 5 steps and takes you to these levels, one at a time, to help you. Today’s Special three-part destination: Israel (split into three parts, Jerusalem, Dead Sea/ Masada, and Tel Aviv. This may not be the ideal time to visit Israel. However, I’d like to sh

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 ways stretching can positively impact your body: Increased Flexibility: Stretching helps lengthen muscles and tendons, which can improve your flexibility. This increased flexibility can enhance your ability to perform various activities and exercises. Improved Range of Motion: Regular stretching can contribute to an increased range of motion in your joints. This is particularly beneficial for activities that require a wide range of motion, such as playing sports or performing certain exerc

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 in your immediate neighborhood that offer a variety of local dishes. Sometimes, a dish or cooking style may not suit your taste, but other options might. Ask Locals for Recommendations: Locals often know the best places to eat. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from hotel staff, tour guides, or friendly locals you meet during your travels. Tell them your limitations. Look for Familiar Cuisines: If you're having trouble adjusting to local flavors, look for restaurants that serve fam

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: On my trip, I had the opportunity to use Venmo in Turkey to pay for a hostel that did not accept credit cards. It worked smoothly. I’ve been using the app for several years, and here are the good and the not so good—first, the advantages. Convenience: Venmo is known for its ease of use, allowing users to send or receive money quickly through a mobile app. It has become famous for splitting bills, sharing expenses, and making small transactions among friends and family. Social Integration: Venmo i