Episode Summary: Join Robin on a solo adventure as she recounts her fascinating journey through the Arctic Circle. This episode serves as a prelude to an upcoming interview with a seasoned expedition traveler who's explored the polar regions extensively. Robin shares her experiences, from navigating the unique geography and cultural complexity of the Arctic to encountering its incredible wildlife and landscapes.

Topics Covered:

• Understanding the Arctic and its distinction from Antarctica
• Overview of the Arctic's geography, including its various regions and territories
• First stop: Longyearbyen in Svalbard, Norway – A coal mining community
• Challenges and logistics of reaching the Arctic, including flights and pre-expedition preparation
• Life onboard an expedition ship and dealing with unpredictable itineraries
• The surprising beauty and wildlife of the Arctic: polar bears, birds, seals, and whales
• Arctic gear essentials: clothing and equipment for surviving the cold
• Unexpected experiences: walking on ice flows, 24 hours of daylight, and educational lectures onboard
• A detour to Iceland's western fjords and Vigur Island, including an introduction to eiderdown farming and puffin colonies
• Final thoughts and future travel plans: Antarctica, the Galapagos, and the Kimberley in Australia

Key Takeaways:

• Traveling in the Arctic requires careful planning, flexibility, and appropriate gear.
• The Arctic is a unique and breathtaking destination, offering unparalleled wildlife encounters and natural beauty.
• Expedition travel is different from regular cruising, with an emphasis on education, exploration, and adaptability.
• The adventure doesn’t end in the Arctic; there are many more expedition destinations to explore.

Resources Mentioned:

• Svalbard, Longyearbyen: Information on the history and culture of this Arctic community
• Aurora Expeditions: More about the Sylvia Earle ship and expedition travel options
• Vigur Island, Iceland: Exploring eiderdown farming and puffin colonies

Stay tuned for our next episode, where Aurora sits down with a special guest who has spent a lifetime exploring the polar regions. They'll dive deeper into what it takes to thrive in some of the most extreme environments on Earth. Plus, Aurora will share her adventures in New Zealand, a land teeming with its own unique brand of adventure and natural splendor.

Thanks for joining us on today’s episode of The Intrepid Traveler podcast! If you enjoyed today’s episode, please rate and review our show to help us reach even more aspiring travelers. Don’t forget to check out our website, visit us on Facebook, Instagram or follow us on LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on our latest epic travel adventures!

Use the following links when planning your own travel!

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Hey there, travelers! We’ve got a treat for you in this episode. Our favorite travel expert, Dori Saltzman, is back! You know her for her cruise insights, but now she’s talking about her first mystery novel, "Death of a Travel Advisor." Join us as we chat about her journey from travel editor to author, and get the lowdown on her book.

Robin warmly welcomes back Dori, who shares her exciting new role as an author. Dori tells us all about "Death of a Travel Advisor," the inspiration behind it, and what it’s been like writing since 2009. Meet Gabby, the main character, and dive into an intriguing cruise ship mystery. Plus, hear about the upcoming prequel that digs deeper into Gabby's life and another suspenseful story.

We also break down what fam trips are and highlight the key differences between travel agents and travel advisors. Dori even included some awesome resources in her book to help you find the perfect travel advisor.

Want to grab Dori’s book? It’s available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target—pretty much anywhere you get your books. And if you do, snap a pic of your copy on vacation and share it! Robin’s planning to get a photo with her copy at Hobbiton in New Zealand.

Big thanks to Dori for joining us again and sharing her insights. We can’t wait for her next book, so stay tuned for its release next July!

If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe, like, and share the podcast. Have a story or suggestion? Email us at letsgo@clinteandcotravel.com.

Previous Episodes with Dori Saltzman:

From All-Inclusive Resorts to Arctic Journeys with Dori Saltzman

Navigating the Seas of Luxury: Dori Saltzman's Expertise in Cruise Travel

Thanks for joining us on today’s episode of The Intrepid Traveler podcast! If you enjoyed today’s episode, please rate and review our

show to help us reach even more aspiring travelers. Don’t forget to check out our website, visit us on Facebook, Instagram or follow

us on LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on our latest epic travel adventures!

Use the following links when planning your own travel!

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Summary: In this episode, Robin chats with Alissa and Josh Ruxin about the incredible transformation of Kigali, Rwanda. From post-genocide rubble to a modern gem, hear all about the rise of the city’s tourism and the meaningful work the Ruxins are doing.

Main Points:

Kigali has undergone an impressive transformation from devastation to a modern marvel. The city now boasts amenities like basketball finals, craft beer, winemaking workshops, and spa services.

The Ruxins have given back significantly through initiatives like the Ruxin Vulnerable Children’s Fund and Good Life Rwanda pharmacy. They have supported local kids from school through to internships and beyond.

Tourist attractions in Kigali have also grown, with the Ruxins starting Heaven restaurant and later expanding to a luxury retreat. Visitors can enjoy activities like cooking classes, cocktail making, and art walks, exploring the vibrant fashion, art, and food scenes.

Their impact on the community and economy is profound. They have trained and employed over 3,500 people, many of whom now work in top hotels. Tourism has positively impacted local economies, creating jobs and opportunities.

On a personal note, Alissa and Josh have raised six kids in Rwanda, including an orphan who’s now a doctor and three adopted Rwandan children. Alissa shares her determination in building their hotel while pregnant and without knowing French, a story that speaks to her grit and dedication.

Key Quotes: "Tourism should offer more than high-priced accommodations and gorilla tours—we want our visitors to experience Rwanda deeply and return for more." - Josh Ruxin.

Resources Mentioned: Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel and Vulnerable Youth Support Fund. (Under Designation menu click Other Type; For Ruxin Family Vulnerable Youth Support Fund)

Dive into this episode to explore Kigali's impressive rebirth and the Ruxins’ remarkable contributions. It’s an episode brimming with inspiration and fascinating insights. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review if you enjoyed it!

Thanks for joining us on today’s episode of The Intrepid Traveler podcast! If you enjoyed today’s episode, please rate and review our

show to help us reach even more aspiring travelers. Don’t forget to check out our website, visit us on Facebook, Instagram or follow

us on LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on our latest epic travel adventures!

Use the following links when planning your own travel!

TRAVEL INSURED INTERNATIONAL

MEDJET

VIRTUOSO

PROJECT EXPEDITION