Not every trip can be an enriching cultural experience. Sometimes you just want to have a fruity drink, shop for things you don’t need, and let your body and mind do nothing! That's what tourist traps are for! Renee and I count down our top 5 tourist traps and why we continue to visit them!! 

Roundtrip

Our Favorite Tourist Traps - #026

Topics Thailand is best known as the travel hub of Southeast Asia. Thailand is also known for its tropical beaches, royal palaces, ancient ruins, and beautiful temples. On this episode we talk with our friend Michelle Ruiz. Bona fide yoga goddess and travel enthusiast, Michelle shares her experiences in Bangkok and Phuket, Thailand. We also talk a bit about practicing yoga and how difficult doing yoga on the beach can be. If you're stuck on where to stay, internet access, and if you have to bring toilet paper. . . we got you covered on this episode. 

RoundTrip #025 – Take Your Asana to Thailand

Long flights deserve awesome movies! Our friend Stacey stuck around after last month’s podcast to chat about the film Get Out. . . A great selection to watch inflight or to download for a long ride. Plot twists, the ending and other details of the film will be discussed. This has been your official spoiler alert! 

RoundTrip #024 – Inflight Movies | Get Out

Summer is here and if you’re struggling with whether or not to take that solo trip, we say GO! On this episode we chat it up with our travel gal-pal Stacey S., about her solo Caribbean adventures to Turks & Caicos and Jamaica. Be prepared to get some great ideas on activities . . . think lagoons, jet skis, and exploring Caribbean culture.  Just try not to make any babies cry.

RoundTrip #023 – Caribbean Kween

Topics Fifty-one years after the initial embargo was placed on Cuba, President Obama lifted some of the travel restrictions. U.S. citizens have always been able to travel to Cuba via Mexico, Canada or a Caribbean island with special permissions. Now it is legal to visit Cuba directly from the States.  Thanks, Obama! Our special guest Rebecca, aka the Solo-Travelista (totally just gave her that name), chats with us about the basics of traveling to Cuba. We also cover what you should bring, which is a ton of sh!t, to make your trip a bit more comfortable. Remember, flexibility and patience are your friends while you prepare for your Cuban Adventure. We got so many great tips from Rebecca, we may do a Cuba 102!!!!

RoundTrip #022 – Cuba 101

Topics You already know that we had a great trip to Paris because we have talked about that trip many, many times since returning. But did you also know we spent a few days in Amsterdam too? Amsterdam is beautiful and has a very laid back vibe. The city has a slew of museums and is a mix of new buildings, old buildings and canals. Because the city is extremely bike friendly we would suggest to look both ways before crossing streets. . . because a bike will run you over!   If traveling to Amsterdam from another city in Europe, consider traveling by train. Don’t let anyone convince you to trade seats on the train. . . especially if you are traveling with a “hangry” Kim.  We also suggest that you explore the city on a food tour with Urban Adventures. A trip to Amsterdam is not complete without visiting the Red Light District, if that’s your thing. You should probably get in some culture and check out museums like the Rijksmuseum! Oh, and of course get a selfie with the IAMSTERDAM sign.

RoundTrip #021 – Aww Amsterdam

Topics Haha!! You thought this episode was about Canada, but it’s not! As the inauguration of “he who must not be named” approaches, we laugh at wannabe Canadians. However, because we like you all so much, we decided to craft a handy list of places for you to move that are NOT Canada. Not saying you want to move. . . but if you happen to have a useful set of skills (meaning you need to work for money), hit the lotto, or have $200K (dual citizenship, anyone?) lying around, you probably can move your life to some pretty nice locations around the world. So you, and your spoiled cat Gustavo (Kim totally came up with that name), can enjoy warm sunsets, ocean waves and hopefully avoid any contact with monkeys. F*c&!n monkeys.

RoundTrip #020 – Moving to Canada?

Topics Finally, 2016 is wrapping up but we’ve done a lot of fun stuff this year! From hiking and wine tasting in Sedona, to sightseeing in Paris and exploring Disney, we have had a blast! As we make our way into the new year, we recall resolutions past and vow not to set the bar too high on resolutions for 2017. After recapping an excellent travel year, we take some time to share our own answers to the #travelsquad questions (why haven’t we done this sooner? Who knows.) Of course this is our 2016 wrap up episode so we have to leave you with our hopes for the upcoming year to explore, learn and grow!

RoundTrip #019 – Is 2016 Over Yet?

Topics We catch up with our #travelsquand member Kyra, who travels more than anyone we know! Although she lives with chronic illness, Kyra travels the world extensively. She shares her travel experiences with us and great tips on dealing with health, rest and needed medications while exploring abroad. We also cover travel insurance and vaccinations. Always consult with your physician about vaccinations and any potential side effects. Don't be like Kim and try to get your vaccination a week before your trip #thatsnothowthisworks! 

Roundtrip #018 – #travelsquad | Traveling with Chronic Illness

Topics Traveling always allows us to meet new people. Lucky for you, on this episode we share our newest #travelsquad friend Nicole!   Nicole shares her travel experiences and our affinity for making awesome new friends while traveling. Besides exploring other cultures, we all agree that it is important to take advantage of unexpected travel opportunities when they pop-up. Well, only if you are lucky enough to have friends who own vineyards in France. We learn how poor planning can be a problem but a few strategically cut chocolate bars, yogurt, and wine can save lives! So be like Nicole and travel to form connections, explore different cultures, and create new traditions!

RoundTrip #017 – #travelsquad | New Friends & France

Topics First impressions are the most lasting, and though a bit cruddy and worn out on the edges, after a few days in Paris the beauty of the city is overwhelming. Getting around Paris was a breeze! From taking Uber to using the metro system, both were easy to maneuver. One note, you must remember to press the exit button to get off of the metro, not all doors open and Kim found that out the hard way. Paris is known for its culinary treats, so try a food tour to experience how to eat and drink like a Parisian. No trip to Paris is complete without a trip to Versailles and a visit Marie Antoinette’s “hamlet” better known as Petit Trianon. We explored the grounds on a bike tour and had a delightful picnic by the grand canal near the Palace. Go and experience the opulence of the Palace of Versailles. Speaking of macaroons, ok maybe we were just thinking about them because they were so delicious, take a moment and inhale as many macaroons as you can at Laduree or Pierre Herme. Both are fabulous, but different in the sense of traditional vs unique flavors and presentation. Also check out the independent chocolatiers for macaroons and chocolates that are just as fantastic. Visit Paris and get lost in its beauty!

RoundTrip #016 – Everything We ❤ About Paris

Topics Now that the 2016 Olympic men’s diving and rugby are over in Rio, we can focus on other things . . . like talking about Brazil!  Outside of cultural revelations observed during our viewing of the Rio opening ceremonies (yes that really was a slave trade re-enactment), we also learn that meat and fruit are a big deal in Brazil! According to our guest, Brazil is known for its beautiful beaches, so you have to get in some beach time. Hang out at the beaches in Salvador, Bahia and take in all of the many beach vendors selling everything from sunglasses to fried cheese also called "queijo coalho". When the sun goes down, and you’re done with your cheese, take some time to hang out amongst the locals. You can do like Vonetta and check out a local strip club, to observe the polite exchange of services between the beautiful women and men, ask for Gabby (just kidding). Like any new place, plan your adventure accordingly, and if your cab driver says no to dropping you off someplace, don’t fight it! No matter how much you want to see favelas. Why you would want to see the hood, we don’t know, I mean if you’ve seen one hood you’ve seen them all. Travel tip for Brazil: Vonetta also advises that you take into account the requirements for entering the country and set aside plenty of time to get through that process. Take your own meds and bring enough currency to buy your fried cheese.

RoundTrip #015 - #travelsquad | Being in Brazil

?Topics This week’s episode is all about conventions! We had the pleasure of sitting down with Christian Monckeberg and Cory Miller to talk Cons. These guys are the the hosts of The Powerful Nerdcast, a fellow Rouge Intel podcast you should check out! Seems there is a Con for everyone! We discuss the do's and don’ts of attending any convention, including Comic Con, Dragon Con, Momo Con and more! We also talk about the intimidation of attending one of these events for the first time. Travel Tips Pro-tip #1 Start slow, decide what you want to do and which event is for you. It's a convention so NOW is the time to dust off that My Little Pony costume and go all “equestranaut” on 'em! Are bronies still a thing? Pro-tip #2 Be sure to participate the unique activities. Cory mentions wrestling at Dragon-Con, which has to be awesome, because #1 it's wrestling and #2 it's wrestling live, 'nuff said. Pro-tip #3 Don't be afraid to go all out or keep it simple with your cosplay, stick to your level of comfort. However, avoid con-shaming by not being weird and randomly taking photos of people off of the Con floor. Ask and be nice! Pro-tip #4 Scope out the scene on Thursday, but hit the ground running on Friday and Saturday when the best panels normally take place. Our guests suggest Dragon-Con for you virgins. Start with a one-day pass and then build up to the 3-days pass once you get the hang of it. Remember to keep your shit together when you meet all of the interesting and famous people you're bound to meet at your next convention. Pro-tip #5 Hydrate! Make sure you have enough water. Christian suggest bringing a Camel-pak to have easy access to water, while freeing up your hands for fun stuff. Also consider downloading the convention app so that you will have easy access to the event schedules. Carry-On:

RoundTrip #014 - Cosplay, Conventions and Comics, Oh My!

Topics This week we sat down with the man himself; Executive Producer of Rogue Intel, Patrick Duffy.  Duff is the producer and a co-host for the Prime podcast, right here on our network!  Patrick is a fan of road trips, so we talk about his history behind the wheel, and how to be prepared for the "long haul." #1 - Be Educated: Before heading out on the road, be sure you know enough about your vehicle (ie; changing a tire) to get by in case of an emergency...that, or have your AAA card ready! #2 - Have Tools, Will Travel: On a long trip, you should always be armed with at least a screwdriver or a Leatherman. Patrick never leaves home without a Z-rex in his glove-box, that features a seatbelt cutter and glass breaker!  The Leatherman O.H.T. also makes a great addition. #3 - Power On: With cell phones, tablets and all other car-riding accompaniments, it's always wise to have a way to charge your gear.  

RoundTrip #013 - Roadtrip or Nah?

Topics On this week’s show we talk about our upcoming European trip and what you should consider when planning international travel, particularly if you plan to visit multiple countries. We also chat about some of the fun activities and sights that we plan to take in during our trip, including more rock love courtesy of Kim and the lovely structures of Stonehenge. Travel Tips 1. Pick a destination: We polled our #travelsquad, but feel free to throw spaghetti at the wall (not for real though) and pick your top location randomly. 2. Create a budget: We can’t stress enough to stick to your budget unless you got money to blow. If that is the case, bring us something back, preferably something “designer” and in the shape of a purse! 3. Research airlines: You’ve probably heard us talk about low-cost or budget airlines, and Airbnb vs hotels. Take a look at all of these options when planning how you’re getting to Europe and where you’re going to lay your head. 4. Money, Money, Money - MonAAAY: Check the currency that is accepted in the countries that you are visiting, apparently everybody doesn’t take the Euro! Also keep an eye out on the exchange rate and consider bringing along a zero foreign transaction fee credit card or load up a passport card with Euro’s and other currency prior to your trip. 5. What type of experience you want to create: Whether it’s a cultural experience or a full tourist-y tour, compare prices for those activities. However, consider exploring the countries you are visiting with #noplan, you never know what hidden treasures you’ll find. Carry-On Our Carry-On suggestions focus on long-distance travel. To remain comfortable on your next long trip, stay hydrated by drinking lots of water in advance of your scheduled trip. Also bring along a pair of compression socks for circulation. Consider your safety and registe

RoundTrip #012 – Planning for Europe

Renee & Kim are travel enthusiasts, sharing personal moments of wanderlust and stories of awe-inspiration!

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