In this episode, David takes listeners deep into the misty mountains of Puebla, to a town that feels worlds away from Mexico’s sun-soaked coasts. Zacatlán—known for its apple orchards, clockmakers, and cobblestone charm—is a creative and cultural haven just two hours from Mexico City.

Joined by Eirick Rodríguez, General Manager of Casa San Miguel, David explores the town’s fascinating blend of history, nature, and craftsmanship. From 18th-century architecture to caves, waterfalls, and local cuisine that redefines mole, Zacatlán offers an authentic slice of mountain Mexico few travellers ever experience.

• Zacatlán de las Manzanas – The mountain town where mist meets creativity and tradition.

• Local Art & Architecture – How community mosaics and colorful alleyways celebrate regional pride.

• Adventure in Nature – From ziplining and waterfalls to mysterious rock formations like Piedras Mágicas.

• Boutique Hotels & Glamping – Why design lovers and nature seekers alike are discovering Zacatlán.

• Apple Cider & Mole Lasagna – A taste of how local flavors blend Mexican roots with culinary innovation.

Casa San Miguel – A beautifully restored 18th-century home turned boutique hotel in the heart of town. With 16 rooms, a spa, temazcal, coworking space, and on-site restaurant, it blends history with contemporary comfort.

Mantra Glamping – Perched in the hills above Zacatlán, this stylish glamping retreat features transparent domes, modern chalets, a spa, and panoramic views of the canyon below. Ideal for travelers looking for something a little different—and deeply relaxing.

Piedras Mágicas – Hidden deep in the forest and accessible only by 4x4, this surreal natural formation of gravity-defying rock pillars feels straight out of Avatar or Pandora. A magical experience in every sense.

Grutas Karmidas in Zapotitlán de Méndez – A thrilling cave hike about an hour and a half from Zacatlán, where visitors walk through an underground river surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites. A must for adventure travelers.

El Callejón del Hueso – Known as the “Bone Alley,” this colorful street is lined with mosaic art created by local residents. The tradition began when an artist from the U.S. introduced the technique, sparking a local art movement that now adorns many homes.

Zacatlán Clockmaking Heritage – Visit workshops where clocks have been handcrafted for over a century. The first monumental clock in Latin America was built here, and today, Zacatlán exports them across the country—including to Mexico’s Tren Maya project.

Town Center & Apple Culture – Stroll through the cobblestone streets, sip apple cider from local producers, and enjoy bakery-fresh pan de manzana (apple bread) as church bells echo through the mist.

Casa Fernandez – A great spot for local dishes and artistic atmosphere. Don’t miss the lasagna de mole—a creative twist on a classic, blending pasta, beef, and rich mole sauce.

La Chichipinga - a great place for the traditional take on Mole.

Apple Cider Tastings – Try Zacatlán’s locally made cider, a crisp and refreshing symbol of the town’s heritage.

Zacatlán’s story is as layered as its landscapes. Once influenced by French settlers after a 19th-century battle in the region, the town still carries traces of European style in its architecture and artisan traditions. Its identity, however, remains deeply Mexican—rooted in community, craft, and...

In this episode, Tim and David explore Johannesburg—South Africa’s largest city, economic powerhouse, and cultural capital. Locals call it “Jozi” or “Joburg,” and it’s often the first stop for travelers heading on safari or deeper into the continent.

While many visitors simply pass through, Johannesburg rewards those who linger. With stylish neighborhoods, fascinating history, vibrant art districts, and world-class hotels, it’s a city that reflects both South Africa’s past and its modern rebirth.

Tim shares insights from over a dozen visits, while David reflects on his first-time experience exploring the city’s complex history and vibrant spirit.

• Gateway to Africa – Why Johannesburg is the ideal international arrival hub for safaris and South African adventures.

• Neighborhoods with Character – Exploring Melrose Arch, Sandton, Rosebank, and Maboneng—each with its own personality.

• History & Healing – Visiting Soweto and the Apartheid Museum to understand South Africa’s profound transformation.

• Dining & Design – From chic rooftop restaurants to local cafés and culinary walking tours.

Apartheid Museum – A powerful, immersive experience that chronicles the rise and fall of apartheid through interactive exhibits, film, and photography. One of the most moving museums in the world.

Soweto Township – Visit Nelson Mandela’s former home (now a museum), see Vilakazi Street—the only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Peace Prize winners—and witness the heartbeat of South African history.

Maboneng Precinct – Meaning “Place of Light,” this creative district transforms old warehouses into art galleries, record stores, and cafés. One of the few areas perfect for a leisurely walk and people-watching.

Rosebank & Sandton – Upscale districts known for luxury shopping, outdoor cafés, and vibrant nightlife. Rosebank feels like a small urban village, while Sandton is Joburg’s gleaming business center.

The Gautrain – A sleek, high-speed train connecting OR Tambo International Airport to Sandton and Rosebank. Safe, scenic, and the best way to arrive in style.

Melrose Arch Marriott Hotel – A walkable, modern hotel surrounded by restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Features a great pool, spacious M Club Lounge, and even a paddle (padel) club next door.

The Leonardo Hotel – One of Africa’s tallest buildings, offering sweeping views of the city skyline. Each room is a full suite with kitchen and living area. Don’t miss the rooftop lounge—or the champagne vending machine.

The Houghton Hotel – Set in a leafy, tranquil neighborhood, this elegant retreat features jacaranda-lined streets, a central pool garden, and spacious rooms that feel like a city oasis.

Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg – Perched on a hilltop overlooking the city’s parks and skyline. Expect classic Four Seasons luxury, serene views, and the acclaimed restaurant Flames.

Radisson Blu Sandton – A reliable, stylish business hotel in the heart of Sandton. Great patio, walking distance to shopping centers, and ideal for repeat travelers seeking convenience and comfort.

Marble (Rosebank) – Upscale dining with a focus on wood-fired South African ingredients. Expect top-notch steaks, seafood, and local wines.

Saint (Sandton) – Italian-inspired fine dining from the team behind Marble. Known for its grilled dishes and exceptional bone marrow appetizer.

La Parada (Melrose Arch) – A lively Spanish tapas restaurant perfect for evening...

In this episode, David and Tim explore Kuala Lumpur (KL), Malaysia’s dynamic capital—a place where Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures blend into one of Asia’s most colorful urban tapestries. David shares why KL ranks among his favorite Southeast Asian cities, from sizzling night markets to infinity pools overlooking the Petronas Towers, while Tim reflects on his earlier visits and why he’s ready to give the city another chance.

Together they dive into where to stay, what to eat, and why KL is one of the best-value hubs for travelers exploring Asia.

• Cultural Fusion & Modern Energy – How KL’s mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences shape its neighborhoods, cuisine, and festivals.

• Digital Nomad Magnet – Why the city’s affordable luxury, coworking cafés, and serviced apartments draw travelers from around the world.

• From the Street Markets to Infinity Pools – David’s experience living like a local in budget-friendly high-rises with skyline views.

• Getting Around & Beyond – Why Kuala Lumpur is Southeast Asia’s ultimate air travel hub for quick, affordable connections.

Petronas Towers & Skybridge – Malaysia’s most iconic landmark. The 86th-floor observatory offers sweeping views of KL’s skyline and green spaces.

Rex KL & REXPERIENCE – A restored heritage cinema turned indie bookstore and immersive digital art hub blending traditional Malaysian art with modern design.

Jalan Alor Night Market – The heart of KL’s street food scene, alive with sizzling woks, satay grills, tropical fruit, and the scents of Malaysia’s multicultural cuisine.

Ride the LRT & Monorail – Affordable, air-conditioned, and scenic—one of the best ways to see the city’s diversity from above.

Jalan Alor Food Street – Open late and packed with local favorites like satay, laksa, and grilled seafood.

Food Halls in Bukit Bintang – Upscale mall food courts offering clean, high-quality versions of the same beloved street dishes.

Tropical Juice Stands & Coffee Spots – KL’s café scene is thriving, with great local roasteries and fruit juice stalls everywhere you go.

Bukit Bintang – KL’s entertainment and shopping heart; home to Jalan Alor, rooftop bars, and luxury malls.

Chinatown (Petaling Street) – Packed with heritage architecture, market stalls, and hidden cafés.

KLCC – The modern business core anchored by the Petronas Towers and high-end hotels.

Ceylonz Suites by Five Senses – Modern serviced apartments near Bukit Bintang with rooftop infinity pool, gym, and co-working spaces. Excellent budget choice and digital nomad favorite.

JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur – Central location, five-star service, and great value for a luxury stay (often under $150 USD per night).

Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur – Tim’s pick for its resort feel in the city; tranquil, elegant, and ideal after a hot day of exploring.

The Westin Kuala Lumpur – Great location, though now showing its age compared to other nearby properties.

• Soak in skyline views from a rooftop

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)

Mentioned in this episode:

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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

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

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).

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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.

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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:

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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

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:

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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:

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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: