Dr. Mary Travelbest

Episode: Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan FAQ Should I use public transportation abroad?   Episode: Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan    Lesson Learned: Don’t schedule everything Day 1   Travel Tip: Trust your gut instincts, if unsure, pivot fast.   FAQ Response:  Should I use public transportation abroad?   Yes, you should try it at the least, but not in rush hour with all of your luggage. One way to test it out is to try it early in the morning, before rush-hour workers arrive, but while it’s still light outside.  Most of the time, you only need a card to swipe, and you can add money to the card when you need to. Your first care purchase is often at a self-service kiosk, and usually there is English translations here. Go for it and try.   Episode: Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan This scenic region reminded me of Lake Tahoe, California.  If you are coming you will Arrive in Taoyuan airport and take the train to the Taipei Main Station and take the HSR t...

Seoul, Korea episode Listener Story Spotlight A friend and a listener named Lois recently went to Hawaii. She told me she spent much time getting travel insurance for herself and her partner. She had to pay more than she expected as her partner was having a birthday between the day she bought the service and the day of the trip. But she said it was well worth it for her peace of mind. The FAQ for today is: Where to find the best travel insurance for a long trip abroad. 1. Start with a neutral comparison engine; you can see this in the show notes. Why use it first? Where to click Smart filters to enable It lets you price 30-day single-trip plans from dozens of underwriters side-by-side, then click through to the policy certificate in one step. Squaremouth (toggle "Comprehensive" or "Medical-only" to see apples-to-apples pricing). Squaremouth Travel Insurance Medical ≥ $100k, Evac≥ $250k, "Cancel for Any Reason" if you want ma...

 Ecuador: planning Listener Story Spotlight I want to tell you about a listener named Pat who loves to take 40-minute walks. She does one every day. We have traveled together to Spain and have been ski buddies for over 10 years. She's a superb figure skater and loves cats. Maybe you even know my friend. Her last name is Brown, inspiring me to go to the Galapagos Islands this year. Thanks, Pat, for that encouragement.   The FAQ for today is:  How do you choose your outfits for weather conditions that constantly change? The answer is more straightforward than you think: It's basic colors, basic footwear, and layers, including a layer of insulated and waterproof clothing with a hat. You can also buy things along the journey, so if you don't have one now, you can get one later. What brings you more confidence? Is it knowing where you are going to sleep tonight? Is it knowing the language? Is it knowing you don't have to worry about anything? Let me know your thought...

 Travel Planning: Part 1 Colombia In this episode:   Where an I heading series: Part 1   Today’s Mistake- avoiding potholes and buying new tires Travel Advice:  Safety and security tip FAQ: How do you use SERVAS? I use Servas International to help me plan my trips. You sign up on the website, and a representative will contact you and interview you. They will make sure you are a real person and check references. Then, you get a Letter of Engagement, and you can contact hosts and day hosts. Today’s destination: Planning my trip to Colombia   Friends to meet in Bogota. Peace Servas Secretary Colombia. She said YES! Reach out to her with my dates and any needs. I am friends with Fanny Vico.   Flights: Given your preference for flying over driving, consider booking internal flights between major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. Airlines such as Avianca and LATAM offer frequent domestic routes.​ Accommodation: Opt for reputable hostel...

Boulder, Colorado FAQ: Isn’t it awkward to eat alone? Step 1 question   Destination episode: Boulder, CO.   Lesson Learned: Got on the wrong train line.   Travel Tip: Screenshot your map before leaving Wifi   FAQ Response to Isn’t it awkward to eat alone? Yes, it is the first few times. No doubt. But it gets easier with every time you do it. Soon, you’ll just walk in a restaurant and not even think about it.   I can relate to the woman who has never done it, because I remember my first time. I was scared. I told the hostess: “I’ve never eaten solo in a restaurant before, so put me in the corner, ok?” She did as I wished, and then came by to check on me a couple of times. My service was good. I had only good experiences since then.   And I travel around the world solo now.   Episode: Boulder, Colorado My time in Boulder, Colorado, was among the best. Do you know some people consider it the Happiest Place in the USA? Look out Disneyla...