To celebrate 20 years of the Travel in 10 Podcast , David Brodie and co host Tim Johnson look back at how travel podcasting began and where it is today. David is joined by Chris Christensen, creator of long running Amateur Traveler podcast and member of the Podcast Hall of Fame, for a candid conversation about starting shows in 2004 to 2005, the gear and grit it took early on, and how travel audio has inspired millions to explore the world.

Highlights:

• The origin story of Amateur Traveler and Travel in 10
• Early podcasting hurdles, recording setups, and hand built RSS feeds
• Why interview driven shows unlock destinations beyond your own travels
• How travel podcasts are used by schools, governments, and airlines
• Favourite guest stories that challenge assumptions about places and people
• Evolving travel styles, trip pacing, and second visit strategies that reveal the local side of a city
• Building community across travel podcasters and launching Voyascape

Closing music: Grace Forestier, “Leaving on a Jet Plane” (Instagram: @graceforestiermusic)

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Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

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This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Tim joins David to make the case for Nagasaki as a must-add to Japan itineraries—especially while the yen is favorable. Beyond its solemn WWII history, the city blends European influence, scenic harbor views, island day trips, and incredible food. We cover the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum, Dejima’s Dutch trading post, Glover Garden, a boat trip to Battleship Island, what to eat (castella and champon), where to stay (from boutique Portuguese-inspired hotels to brand-new design stays), plus nearby onsen culture and the perfect sunset finale from Mount Inasa.

Why listen:

• A practical “second-trip to Japan” alternative to Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka

• How to structure a respectful visit to the Peace Park and Museum

• Exactly where Nagasaki’s Dutch/Portuguese legacy shows up today

• What and where to eat, stay, and soak—without renting a car

• Nagasaki Peace Park: Begin here to understand the city’s history and commitment to peace. Pair it with the Atomic Bomb Museum for context.
• Dejima Island: Re-created streets and warehouses from Nagasaki’s Dutch-trade era.
• Oura Cathedral & Glover’s House: Rare historic church and hillside European mansions with harbor views.
• Battleship Island (Hashima): A guided boat trip to an eerie, abandoned mining island with UNESCO recognition and a Bond-film cameo.
• Mount Inasa Ropeway: Ride up at dusk for glittering harbor views.

• Castella cake: Nagasaki’s signature Portuguese sponge cake.
• Champon noodles: Pork/seafood ramen unique to Nagasaki—try a local favorite near Dejima.
• Dejima Wharf & Izakaya alleys: Perfect for fresh sushi, sashimi, and casual small plates.

• Hotel Monterey Nagasaki: Boutique Portuguese-inspired stay with azulejo tiles and antiques.
• Glover’s House boutique hotel: A hillside retreat next to Glover Garden with breezy views and local character.
• Hotel Indigo Nagasaki: Stylish new property with architecture nodding to the city’s European heritage.
• Nearby onsen options: Obama Onsen on the coast, or Kagoshima (a Shinkansen ride away) for private in-room hot spring baths.

• Be respectful at memorials; photography may be restricted.
• Support local businesses like castella bakeries and izakaya instead of big chains.
• At onsens: follow etiquette (rinse first, no suits, tattoos may need covering).

Affiliate Disclosure:

Some of the links above are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click through and make a booking or purchase. Using these links helps support the...

We head back to Ecuador to explore a lesser-visited southeastern loop that moves from the high Andes into the Amazon in just a few hours. David and Tim swap rainforest lodge stories, then David sits down in Cuenca with Felipe from Two Degrees Expeditions to unpack a new, community-driven route that threads cacao and guayusa farms, light-adventure rafting, birding lodges, Shuar cultural experiences, and standout gastronomy in Saraguro.

Why listen:

• Discover how quickly you can link the Andes and Amazon in southern Ecuador

• Learn what “light adventure” looks like for families and curious first-timers

• Hear how Shuar and Saraguro communities are leading culture-forward, sustainable tourism

• Get ideas for unique stays, from river-perched rooms to forest cabins

• Cuenca

• The Andes and the Amazon of southern Ecuador

• Cacao farm visit and chocolate tasting

• Guayusa farming and tea tradition

• Family-friendly rafting experience

• Shuar community visit and cultural exchange

• Saraguro town and Chamuico restaurant (six-course tasting)

• Lodges referenced: Rio Vida Lodge (Hualaquiza), Copalinga Forest Lodge

• This route is intentionally community-based. Please book with operators who compensate local partners fairly and cap group sizes.

• Follow lodge guidance on river and rainforest safety, stick to marked paths, and use insect repellent that is rainforest-safe.

• Cultural photography: always ask permission, especially during ceremonies.

Book directly with Two Degrees Expeditions or find them on Instagram at 2 degrees expeditions.

Note: Some of the above are affiliate links. if you book using them you will not be charged any extra, but we will receive a small commission to help support the show.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

This week we’re in Cuenca, Ecuador — a UNESCO World Heritage city nestled in the Andes. Known for its cobblestone streets, historic charm, bohemian spirit, and Panama hats (which, despite the name, actually come from Ecuador), Cuenca is a city where history, culture, food, and nature blend seamlessly.

Host David Brodie is joined by Felipe Neira from 2 Degrees Expeditions, a Cuenca local and guide, to share the best of this remarkable destination — from markets and hot springs to Inca history and modern gastronomy.

• The deep history of Cuenca, once the northern capital of the Inca empire.
• Why the city’s rivers, surrounding mountains, and fertile valley make it so unique.
• The spiritual and cultural experiences found in Cuenca’s markets, including traditional healing rituals.
• Relaxing escapes at the region’s hot springs and boutique hotels.
• Felipe’s favorite restaurants that highlight Ecuadorian ingredients and innovation.
• Why simply walking Cuenca’s streets and riverside paths is one of the city’s greatest pleasures.

• Parc Royale Cuenca – Boutique charm in a historic building with cathedral views
• Itza Hotel – Stylish design and stunning city viewpoints.
• Santa Lucia House – A colonial mansion with a tranquil courtyard and French restaurant.

• Visit the vibrant 10 de Agosto Market — for fresh produce, traditional dishes like hornado, and encounters with healers.
• Experience traditional healing rituals — with herbs, energy cleanses, and spiritual traditions unique to the region.
• Soak in the Baños de Cuenca Hot Springs , a perfect place to relax among the Andes.
• Explore the Pumapungo Archaeological Park — ancient Inca ruins right in the city.
• Take in the creativity of Cuenca’s Street Art, with murals and painted cityscapes transforming urban spaces.

• La María – Women-led kitchen creating innovative cuisine from traditional Ecuadorian ingredients.
• Dos Sucres – Seasonal, farm-to-table dining with produce from their own gardens.

• Learn more about tours with 2 Degrees Expeditions, Felipe’s company offering guided experiences in Cuenca and beyond.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

When most people think of Orlando, images of castle spires, fireworks, and parades at theme parks immediately come to mind. But beyond the turnstiles, Orlando is a city full of surprises. From kayaking in crystal-clear springs to exploring vibrant neighborhoods filled with street art and global cuisine, Orlando has a lot more magic to offer.

In this episode of the Travel in 10 Podcast, David and Tim explore Orlando beyond Disney and Universal, sharing insider tips on where to eat, where to stay, and what experiences you can’t miss.

• Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando, Disney Springs Area – family-friendly, close to the fireworks, with multiple pools and complimentary happy hour.
• Waldorf Astoria Orlando – luxury suites, pools, and a lazy river.
• The Alfond Inn at Rollins, Winter Park – boutique charm with a stunning contemporary art collection.

• Soseki Omakase – Michelin-starred, 10-seat omakase experience using local Florida ingredients.
• The Ravenous Pig – elevated Southern pub fare with a Bib Gourmand Michelin nod.
• Prato – wood-fired pizzas and Italian-inspired dishes.
• Brother Jimmy’s Barbecue – low-and-slow BBQ with brisket, pork, cornbread, and fried pickles.

• Icon Park – rides, dining, and entertainment, including the giant Orlando Eye.
• Museum of Illusions – quirky, mind-bending photo ops.
• Winter Park Boat Tour – glide through canals and historic estates in a glass-bottom kayak or boat.
• Brightline Train – seamless connection between Orlando, Miami, and South Florida.
• Kennedy Space Centre – an inspiring day trip for space lovers.

Orlando is well-connected, with over 1,000 daily flights into MCO from more than 170 destinations worldwide. Whether you’re coming for a long weekend or a full vacation, it’s easy to plan the perfect itinerary.

For personalized help, check out the Visit Orlando Trip Planner for free one-on-one planning with a local expert.

Some of the links above are affiliate links. If you book through them, it helps support the podcast at no extra cost to you.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Today we’re heading to the lowest place on Earth, the Dead Sea in Jordan. Known for its extreme salinity, healing mud, and dramatic landscapes, it’s a place where visitors come to float, rejuvenate, and connect with history. Joining hosts David Brodie and award-winning travel writer Tim Johnson, as they explore what makes this destination so unique.

We’ll cover:

• Getting There – The short drive from Amman to the Dead Sea and why it’s worth more than just a day trip.
• Where to Stay – Insights into luxury resorts like the Dead Sea Marriott Resort and Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, both offering pools, spas, and unforgettable views.
• Floating Experience – What it’s like to “swim” in the Dead Sea, why you can’t sink, and the famous mud treatments that draw travelers from all over the world.
• Nearby Highlights – A visit to Bethany Beyond Jordan, believed to be the baptism site of Jesus, and one of the most significant biblical landmarks in the region.
• Food & Flavors – From traditional mezes to standout dining, including Sufra in Amman and a culinary gem in Madaba, Carib House, redefining Jordanian cuisine with creative twists.

The Dead Sea isn’t just a bucket-list float – it’s an immersive travel experience blending relaxation, history, and culture.

Note: Some of the above links are affiliate links. By booking your hotels and activities through them there is no additional cost, but a small portion of your booking goes to help support this podcast.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

In this episode of Travel in 10, David and Tim dive into the vibrant capital of Jordan: Amman. Often described as a city like an onion — the more layers you peel, the more you uncover — Amman offers a blend of ancient history, buzzing modern neighborhoods, and exceptional hospitality that makes every visit feel both surprising and welcoming.

First Impressions of Amman

• David shares his recent visit, arriving on the inaugural nonstop Royal Jordanian flight from Washington, D.C.
• Both hosts reflect on Amman as a calm, welcoming modern city

Where to Stay in Amman

• St. Regis Amman – A classic luxury choice with sweeping city views, one of the best rooftop bars in town, and a unique spa where guests can reserve private spa suites with steam rooms and pools at no extra cost.
• W Amman – A stylish, centrally located hotel near the city’s top restaurants and shops. Notable for “The Canyon,” an art installation evoking Petra, and a lively pool scene.
• Fairmont Amman – A polished luxury property with a standout spa (though spa pool access requires booking treatments).
• Soho Midtown – A new boutique option in a trendy district filled with art galleries and cafés, perfect for travelers seeking a stylish, lower-cost base.

What to Do in Amman

• Wander the city’s souks and markets, especially around the Roman amphitheater, which stays lively well into the night.
• Explore Rainbow Street for indie theater, live music, and nightlife.
• Discover Jabal Amman, home to street art, artisan shops like the J.O. Shop, and cultural tours.
• Take a guided Underground Amman street art tour with local artists to see the city from a creative perspective.
• Visit the Citadel, a hilltop archaeological site with Bronze Age, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic layers of history.

Food & Dining Experiences

• Hashem – A legendary falafel spot beloved by locals (and even the King of Jordan).
• Sufra – A must-visit on Rainbow Street for traditional Jordanian cuisine in a historic setting.
• Iraq Al-Amir Women’s Association – Offers immersive cooking classes where visitors prepare Jordanian meals alongside local women while supporting a sustainable community project.
• Jordan also surprises with a small but excellent wine scene and a growing specialty coffee culture.

Can’t Miss

• Sweifieh Village – A trendy new district with cool restaurants, an ice cream favorite (Gerard Ice Cream), and a speakeasy-style bowling spot called the Bowl Room.

Note: Some links above are affiliate links. By booking or visiting through them, you...

Hosts: David Brodie and Tim Johnson

Location: Berlin, Germany

In this special bonus episode, David and Tim dedicate the full show to one of the most iconic hotels in the world and the best-known property in Germany — the Hotel Adlon Kempinski in Berlin. From royal beginnings to modern-day luxury, the Adlon’s history and service make it a destination in its own right.

Tim shares insights from his most recent stay, what makes the hotel a German cultural landmark, and why it’s worth adding to your travel bucket list.

History and Legacy

• Founded in the late 19th century with the support of Kaiser Wilhelm to rival Europe’s great hotels
• First in Germany with modern luxuries like electricity, elevators, and hot water
• A storied past including destruction during WWII and careful reconstruction
• Cultural fame in Germany, including as the setting of the TV drama Hotel Adlon

Notable Moments

• Visits from royalty, heads of state, and celebrities
• The infamous Michael Jackson balcony incident at the Presidential Suite

Guest Experience

• Traditional elegance with suites offering Brandenburg Gate views
• The expanded Zion Spa, Berlin’s largest, featuring saunas, a lap pool, and jacuzzis
• Exceptional concierge service, including the long-serving head concierge with stories from decades at the Adlon

Dining

• Two Michelin star restaurant Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer serving multi-course French cuisine with expert wine pairings from one of Germany’s top sommeliers
• Small, intimate dining space requiring advance booking

Insider Tips

• Take time to speak with the concierge or the “ladies and gentlemen in red” for behind-the-scenes stories
• Plan for at least one relaxed day at the hotel to enjoy the spa, public spaces, and fine dining
• Location allows you to walk directly to the Brandenburg Gate and Tiergarten

Subscribe to Travel in 10 on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast app.

Note: Some links mentioned may be affiliate links. Using them to book comes at no extra cost to you and helps support this podcast.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast