エピソード

  • Would You Rather: Beach & Island Life Edition

    Would You Rather: Beach & Island Life Edition
    2025/07/15
    🇬🇷 Greece vs. 🇮🇩 Bali: Island-Hopping or Beach Bumming?🛥️ We both said: GREECE!We’re all about island-hopping vibes — think Santorini sunsets, Mykonos parties, and quiet gems like Zakynthos and Milos. Want the best cruise recs? We gotchu:🔗 Celebrity Cruises – Greek Island Routes🔗 Celestyal Cruises – Authentic Greek Vibes🔗 Windstar Cruises – Yacht-Style Romance🔗 Seabourn – Ultra Luxe & CultureBut hey, Bali isn’t just chillin’ in the corner. It’s got major surf, stunning cliffside beaches, and killer snorkeling. If you’re chasing waves and epic sunsets, don’t miss:🌊 Uluwatu Beach – Surf & Views🌅 Seminyak – Trendy Vibes & Nightlife🐠 Amed Beach – Shipwreck Snorkeling🌕 Full Moon in Thailand or 🔥 Bonfire in Hawaii?Sof said: Hawaii. All the way.Natalie: Team Thailand, baby!What even is a Full Moon Party? Only the wildest all-night beach rave ever, hosted in Koh Phangan, Thailand. Think neon paint, fire dancers, insane DJ sets, and thousands of people from around the world.🕺 Guide to the Full Moon Party📍 Where it Happens – Haad Rin BeachPrefer something chill and soul-soothing? Picture this: Hawaiian beach bonfire, ukulele music, and stargazing with friends. Yeah, we’re down for that too.🔥 Top Bonfire Spots in Hawaii🏄‍♀️ Learn to Surf in Costa Rica or Paddleboard in the Maldives?BOTH sound dreamy. But we’re currently obsessed with the Maldives 🏝️ and those overwater bungalows. Our bucket list is growing fast…🧘‍♀️ Soneva Fushi – Eco-Luxe & Stargazing💑 Anantara Veli – Adults Only Romance🌅 Vakkaru Maldives – Snorkel + Spa GoalsBut don’t sleep on Costa Rica, especially if you’re a surfer girl (or guy). Check out:🏄‍♂️ Tamarindo – Great for Beginners🌴 Santa Teresa – Laid-back Surf Town🌊 Witch’s Rock – Epic Waves & Adventure🥥 Chill in the Caribbean or 🪩 Party in Ibiza?This was a toss-up!Sof: Ibiza, duh.Natalie: Pass me a coconut on the beach.✨ Top Clubs in Ibiza:🔗 Hï Ibiza🔗 Ushuaïa🔗 DC-10🔗 Pacha🔗 O Beach💖 Best Caribbean Beaches to Relax:🐚 Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos🌸 Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas🏝️ Shoal Bay, Anguilla🐢 Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico🏖️ Live on a Sailboat in the Bahamas or Beachfront in Tulum?This one had us split.Sof: Sailboat ALL the way. (Tulum’s gotten a little sketchy lately.)Natalie: Tulum, please! (Lived on a boat already — been there, done that!)🛥 Bahamas Island-Hopping Musts:🐷 Exumas – Swim with Pigs🐠 Andros – Best Diving in the Bahamas🎨 Harbour Island – Pink Sands & Chic Vibes🌮 Tulum Perks (and Precautions):📍 Tulum Travel Safety Tips🌴 Top Beachfront Hotels in Tulum🛺 Navigating Tulum’s Party Scene💬 Drop Us a Comment!Which destination would you pick? Greece or Bali? Surf or spa? Coconut chill or Ibiza rave?DM us @thetravelbrats or leave a comment below! We want to hear all about your dream vacay vibes 💌💕 Follow + Subscribe🎧 Listen on Spotify🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts📺 Watch on YouTube📸 Instagram🎵 TikTok📍 Threads📘 Facebook🐦 X / TwitterCatch ya next week for Episode 3! Until then… keep traveling like a brat 😎💄✈️— Sof & Natalie 💋The Travel Brats
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    48 分
  • Country Roads & Island Vibes: Erica Sunshine Lee on Music, Travel & Trop Rock Dreams

    Country Roads & Island Vibes: Erica Sunshine Lee on Music, Travel & Trop Rock Dreams
    2025/07/01
    In this high-energy episode of The Travel Brats, we hit the road (and the beach!) with international country-rock and Trop Rock sensation Erica Sunshine Lee—a Georgia-born firecracker with a passport full of stamps and a guitar full of stories. Known as the “hardest working woman in country music,” Erica shares how she built her music career from the ground up—touring 20+ countries, releasing 10 albums, and writing over 1,800 songs. We dive into her wildest tour stories, weirdest fan encounters, favorite tropical destinations, and the real-life moments that inspired hits like “Same Ship, Different Day.” From house concerts in backyards to floating stages in the Bahamas, Erica’s life is one wild, musical ride—and she brings the sunshine to every moment. Whether you're a travel lover, music fan, or dream-chaser, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughter, and a whole lotta heart.
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    36 分
  • Harmony in Transit: An Interview with Traveling Musician Eric Travers

    Harmony in Transit: An Interview with Traveling Musician Eric Travers
    2025/06/17
    Captivating audiences since his teenage years, Eric Travers has solidified his status as a seasoned musician in the vibrant Asheville music scene. Hailing from the mountains of Black Mountain, NC, Travers first made his mark as the heartbeat behind an acclaimed Rock n Roll, Jam Band, Travers Brothership, which he co-founded with his brother Kyle at just 13 years old. Over the past 15+ years, the group has amassed an impressive catalog of 35+ published tracks and extensive touring experience. Now 31, Travers has reached new heights in 2024 with the release of his latest single, "Dead End Street," and his new role as Owner and CEO of the All Aboard Records label. Drawing from his diverse musical background in rock, Americana, and blues, Travers' emotive performances and melodic sensibilities have earned him a dedicated following across Western North Carolina and beyond, cementing his role in the local music scene. With the launch of his latest project, the Eric Travers Band, this versatile multi-instrumentalist is primed to take his artistry to thrilling new levels.1. Background and Music CareerHow did you get started in music? What inspired you to pursue it as a career?My father was a career musician who always had instruments and fellow musicians around. My first "real" drumset was gifted to me when I was 8-9 years old. It became a dream of mine when I received praise and applause from my cousins playing air guitar at the age of 3 and 4. I was inspired to start a career in music because I made enough money to barely get by as a musician and this was my end goal. All or none. I sought out a living and a labor of love.When did you first start performing and touring?My first performance was for my school, performing an Elvis Christmas song with my twin brother and father. Performing regularly started when I was 15, with my brother, playing shows from Brevard, NC all the way to Marion, NC as "Travers Brothers Band / Caution Tape", a four piece Rock n' Roll outfit with a 2010, 10 track LP. Our bandmate's father helped us with transportation for 3 years. Touring started after my time freed up, at the age of 17. (When we could drive). I made the choice to leave college for the career in music. Now the band was performing for only $200 every Thursday in Greensboro, NC. A 2 1/2 hour drive from our hometown, Black Mountain, NC.How would you describe your musical style, and how has it evolved over time?My music style is American roots music. When I was 11-13 my band "The Predatorz" played strictly Rock n' Roll like Jimi Hendrix and ZZ Top. I started playing piano and acoustic guitar at this time which was strictly music by The Beatles. "Caution Tape--> Travers Brothers Band" then came along at 14-17. And the Rock n Roll became more jam band oriented with extended guitar solos influenced by The Allman Brothers Band. Then, groove oriented funk music became a thing.My brother and I founded a very successful touring band at the age of 18 called Travers Brothership. In 2012 our debut release was very progressive, soulful, funk and rock group. For the next 4 years we toured with 7 members performing what we called "funkadelic" music. Our 3 piece horn (brass) section helped color this genre.In 2016 the lineup changed back to the original 4 members of the band including my twin brother. We had no choice but to return to a jammy, Rock n' Roll vibe to keep audiences on their toes. We had to stick to our guns and give the audience a powerful sound to make up for 3 lost players in the band.2. The Traveling ExperienceWhat is the most exciting part about traveling for your music?The most exciting part is seeing landmarks, going to new places, seeing national parks and observing the different arts and cultures.How do you typically prepare for a tour? Does your preparation change depending on where you’re performing?When preparing for tour I have to make sure my drumset is ready for performance. All items must be accounted for in our vehicle and/or trailer. In the beginning I required everyone to have foodstamps. We got by with very little. When we were traveling for longer lengths of time we brought more clothes and made sure our vehicle was in proper condition. Eating nutriously required extra packing which was always tough because everyone's priorities are different. Our preparation will change if we are traveling further, flying or if we need our clothes to be nicer. Dressing accordingly is just one step "above" the audience - say, if the audience has T-shirts, we wear button downs.How do you stay grounded and connected to home while you’re on the road?Staying connected to home always came with forfeiting home for the road. My dog traveled with me everywhere. The road and music were my home and a way of life.Have you ever had a surprising or unexpected cultural experience while performing in a different country or city?New Orleans, LA was a culture shock. The large but small music community was humbling. The ...
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    57 分
  • Would you Rather: Adventure & Thrill-Seeking Edition

    Would you Rather: Adventure & Thrill-Seeking Edition
    2025/06/03

    Natalie and Sofia dive head first into some exciting and fun Travel Themed Questions! It's a Would You Rather episode full of lots of helpful tips and tricks for each place that gets talked about! From bungee jumping in South Africa, to whitewater rafting in Costa Rica, to trekking the Inca Trail to Rainbow Mountain, and so so much more, your Travel Brats decide what they would rather do! Play along as you listen and let them know what you think on their Instagram, @thetravelbrats. Enjoy!!

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    37 分
  • An Extraodinary EPICsode to Remember!

    An Extraodinary EPICsode to Remember!
    2025/05/20

    Travel Brats Nat and Matt talk about Universal's newest and most innovative theme park, Epic Universe! The Park is set to have it's Grand Opening in just two days. When it comes to redefining the limits of theme park imagination, Universal Destinations & Experiences has never been one to hold back. But with Epic Universe, Universal is setting a new bar—not just for itself, but for the entire industry. Check out this episode to hear all about the rides, the theming, the food, and more!!

    What Is Epic Universe?

    Epic Universe is the latest addition to the Universal Orlando Resort portfolio and promises to be its most ambitious project yet. Located just a few miles south of the existing parks, this massive expansion isn’t just a new land or a few new rides—it's an entire theme park resort unto itself, complete with a hotel, restaurants, shops, and a range of immersive lands inspired by beloved franchises.

    Universal describes it as their “most immersive and innovative theme park ever,” and for those who've had the chance to go, it certainly delivers!

    Lands and Attractions

    ✨ Super Nintendo World

    Already a smash hit in Japan and Hollywood, Super Nintendo World allows guests to jump into the worlds of Mario, Luigi, and Donkey Kong. With vibrant environments, gamified attractions, and the much-anticipated Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge ride. A Donkey Kong-themed roller coaster, complete with a “mine cart” effect that simulates jumping broken tracks.

    🐉 How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

    Based on the DreamWorks franchise, this land brings the Viking village of Berk to life with interactive experiences, flying dragon rides, and probably one of the most kid-friendly and emotionally rich settings in the park.

    🧙‍♂️ The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

    Rather than retread familiar ground, this new Potter-themed land dives deeper into the lore, drawing inspiration from Paris’s wizarding community featured in Fantastic Beasts as well as the Ministry of Magic itself. This land is smaller, but truly amazing!

    🦇 Dark Universe

    This land leans into Universal’s horror roots and revives its Classic Monsters in an all-new way. Think Frankenstein, Dracula, the Wolfman—done with modern storytelling and cutting-edge ride technology. Expect spooky ambiance, a signature dark ride, and an immersive gothic village to explore.

    🌌 Celestial Park (The Central Hub)

    What connects all of these worlds is Celestial Park, the gateway to each themed land and a destination in its own right. Featuring gardens, fountains, restaurants, and a massive dual-racing roller coaster (called Starfall Racers), this area serves as both a central hub and an experience all its own.

    Innovation in Design

    What truly sets Epic Universe apart is how it rethinks the traditional theme park layout. Rather than looping around a central lake like Islands of Adventure or forming a circle like Magic Kingdom, Epic Universe functions more like a spoke-and-wheel—with each land self-contained and fully immersive, connected via portals from the central Celestial Park. This allows for a deeper thematic experience with better crowd flow and separation between worlds.

    The use of cutting-edge technology—augmented reality, facial recognition for interactive elements, and ride systems that blend physical sets with digital storytelling—promises to make Epic Universe one of the most technologically advanced theme parks in the world.

    Why It Matters

    Universal is betting big on Epic Universe, and it’s more than just a new theme park—it’s a strategic play to capture the booming travel and entertainment market, especially as theme park attendance continues to rebound post-pandemic. It also positions Universal as a direct and formidable rival to Disney’s dominance in Central Florida.

    More importantly, it’s a symbol of what’s possible when storytelling, engineering, and creativity collide at a massive scale.

    Epic Universe is shaping up to be more than just a theme park—it’s an experience that promises to redefine what immersive entertainment means. Whether you’re a lifelong Potterhead, a Nintendo fan, a thrill-seeker, or someone who just wants to soar with dragons, there will be something in Epic Universe that speaks to your imagination.

    And when the gates officially open in two days, one thing’s for sure: the future of theme parks is about to get a lot more EPIC.
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    55 分
  • The Ultimate Guide to the 20 Regions of Italy with Italian Experts, the Founders of Tourissimo (Continued)

    The Ultimate Guide to the 20 Regions of Italy with Italian Experts, the Founders of Tourissimo (Continued)
    2025/05/06
    Beppe, a native Italian, started his journey in active travel over two decades ago and, with the help of his wife Heather, co-founded Tourissimo, one of the top adventure travel companies in Italy. With years of expertise designing cycling and adventure tours across all 20 regions of Italy, Beppe and Heather have the inside scoop on the most authentic and unforgettable experiences Italy has to offer.So grab your espresso (or a glass of vino Italiano), and let’s explore Italy region by region!Northern Italy: Adventure, Culture, and Alpine BeautyLombardy (Lombardia)Running along the Swiss border, Lombardy is Italy’s largest and wealthiest region—a land of striking contrasts and cultural riches. Home to nearly 10 million people, Lombardy contains 12 of Italy’s largest cities: Milan, Bergamo, Brescia, Como, Mantua, Pavia, Cremona, Lecco, Lodi, Monza, Sondrio, and Varese. The region blends modern sophistication with old-world charm, from the fashion capital and bustling metropolis of Milan to the serene, postcard-perfect landscapes of Lake Como.Lombardy is dotted with some of Italy’s most beloved lakes, including Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Idro, and many more. Picturesque villages like Bellagio offer sun-drenched escapes along Lake Como’s shores, while the medieval towns of Bergamo and Mantova enchant visitors with cobblestone streets, sweeping views, and centuries of history.Culinary lovers will be spoiled for choice with Lombardy’s 60 Michelin-starred restaurants—3 with three stars, 6 with two stars, and 51 with one star. Be sure to savor the region’s iconic Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy saffron-infused dish that’s a local staple. Wine enthusiasts won’t want to miss a glass of Franciacorta, Italy’s sparkling answer to Champagne.November is a wonderful time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It’s also the perfect season to explore Lombardy’s slice of the Alps, where charming mountain towns await nestled among the peaks. For an unforgettable adventure, consider attending the 2025 Winter Olympics, which will be held in Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo!Tourissimo Tip– If you are flying into Milan, select the correct airport because Milan has two airports! For info, check out the following Tourissimo blog: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/avoid-this-common-travel-mistake-know-milans-two-airportsVenetoVeneto, the birthplace of Prosecco, Polenta, and the iconic Spritz, is a region rich in charm, culture, and culinary delights. Stretching from the Italian Riviera to the Venetian Pre-Alps and the stunning Dolomites, Veneto is home to both natural beauty and historic towns. Its capital, the enchanting floating city of Venice, is world-famous for its canals, gondolas, labyrinthine streets, and undeniable romance.Each of Venice’s islands offers something special: admire the colorful houses of Burano, renowned for its lace-making traditions; visit Murano, celebrated for its centuries-old glassblowing artistry; and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Torcello. Exploring these islands by vaporetto (water bus) offers a quieter, more authentic glimpse into Venetian life. Tourissimo Tip–For a few more suggestions, check out Tourissimo’s blog on the Venetian Lagoon: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/our-favorite-destinations-in-the-venetian-lagoonBeyond Venice, Veneto boasts a treasure trove of picturesque towns. Verona, Padua, Vicenza, and Asolo each offer their own distinct history and beauty. Visit Castelfranco Veneto for a charming escape or head to Bardolino to enjoy a boat ride on Italy’s largest lake, Lago di Garda. Stroll the waterfront in Castelletto sul Garda or circle the freshwater moat of Cittadella, a red-brick medieval town full of character.In the countryside, the hills of Prosecco promise stunning vineyard views, while the medieval town of Montagnana offers a taste of the past. Nature lovers can visit the volcanic Euganean Hills in Este, and cheese lovers shouldn’t miss the small town of Asiago, home to one of Italy’s most famous cheeses.Veneto’s culinary scene shines with 34 Michelin-starred restaurants—2 with three stars, 3 with two stars, and 29 with one star. Indulge in local specialties like Bigoli in Salsa, a hearty Venetian pasta with anchovy sauce, and toast with a glass of Prosecco, Grappa, or the regional favorite, the Select Spritz. And don’t forget—Venetians love to celebrate, so let loose and join the party!Tourissimo Tips–Another fun suggestion is Veneto Marostica, the City of Chess, where they do a living chess match with hundreds of people dressed in medieval costumes every two years: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/marostica-the-city-of-chessPiedmont (Piemonte)Nestled at the foot of the Alps and bordered on three sides by the Mediterranean Sea, Piedmont is one of Italy’s most underrated gems. With a diverse landscape that offers adventure and beauty year-round, this region is perfect for both...
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    45 分
  • The Ultimate Guide to the 20 Regions of Italy with Italian Experts, the Founders of Tourissimo

    The Ultimate Guide to the 20 Regions of Italy with Italian Experts, the Founders of Tourissimo
    2025/04/22
    Beppe, a native Italian, started his journey in active travel over two decades ago and, with the help of his wife Heather, co-founded Tourissimo, one of the top adventure travel companies in Italy. With years of expertise designing cycling and adventure tours across all 20 regions of Italy, Beppe and Heather have the inside scoop on the most authentic and unforgettable experiences Italy has to offer.So grab your espresso (or a glass of vino Italiano), and let’s explore Italy region by region!Northern Italy: Adventure, Culture, and Alpine BeautyLombardy (Lombardia)Running along the Swiss border, Lombardy is Italy’s largest and wealthiest region—a land of striking contrasts and cultural riches. Home to nearly 10 million people, Lombardy contains 12 of Italy’s largest cities: Milan, Bergamo, Brescia, Como, Mantua, Pavia, Cremona, Lecco, Lodi, Monza, Sondrio, and Varese. The region blends modern sophistication with old-world charm, from the fashion capital and bustling metropolis of Milan to the serene, postcard-perfect landscapes of Lake Como.Lombardy is dotted with some of Italy’s most beloved lakes, including Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Idro, and many more. Picturesque villages like Bellagio offer sun-drenched escapes along Lake Como’s shores, while the medieval towns of Bergamo and Mantova enchant visitors with cobblestone streets, sweeping views, and centuries of history.Culinary lovers will be spoiled for choice with Lombardy’s 60 Michelin-starred restaurants—3 with three stars, 6 with two stars, and 51 with one star. Be sure to savor the region’s iconic Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy saffron-infused dish that’s a local staple. Wine enthusiasts won’t want to miss a glass of Franciacorta, Italy’s sparkling answer to Champagne.November is a wonderful time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It’s also the perfect season to explore Lombardy’s slice of the Alps, where charming mountain towns await nestled among the peaks. For an unforgettable adventure, consider attending the 2025 Winter Olympics, which will be held in Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo!Tourissimo Tip– If you are flying into Milan, select the correct airport because Milan has two airports! For info, check out the following Tourissimo blog: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/avoid-this-common-travel-mistake-know-milans-two-airportsVenetoVeneto, the birthplace of Prosecco, Polenta, and the iconic Spritz, is a region rich in charm, culture, and culinary delights. Stretching from the Italian Riviera to the Venetian Pre-Alps and the stunning Dolomites, Veneto is home to both natural beauty and historic towns. Its capital, the enchanting floating city of Venice, is world-famous for its canals, gondolas, labyrinthine streets, and undeniable romance.Each of Venice’s islands offers something special: admire the colorful houses of Burano, renowned for its lace-making traditions; visit Murano, celebrated for its centuries-old glassblowing artistry; and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Torcello. Exploring these islands by vaporetto (water bus) offers a quieter, more authentic glimpse into Venetian life. Tourissimo Tip–For a few more suggestions, check out Tourissimo’s blog on the Venetian Lagoon: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/our-favorite-destinations-in-the-venetian-lagoonBeyond Venice, Veneto boasts a treasure trove of picturesque towns. Verona, Padua, Vicenza, and Asolo each offer their own distinct history and beauty. Visit Castelfranco Veneto for a charming escape or head to Bardolino to enjoy a boat ride on Italy’s largest lake, Lago di Garda. Stroll the waterfront in Castelletto sul Garda or circle the freshwater moat of Cittadella, a red-brick medieval town full of character.In the countryside, the hills of Prosecco promise stunning vineyard views, while the medieval town of Montagnana offers a taste of the past. Nature lovers can visit the volcanic Euganean Hills in Este, and cheese lovers shouldn’t miss the small town of Asiago, home to one of Italy’s most famous cheeses.Veneto’s culinary scene shines with 34 Michelin-starred restaurants—2 with three stars, 3 with two stars, and 29 with one star. Indulge in local specialties like Bigoli in Salsa, a hearty Venetian pasta with anchovy sauce, and toast with a glass of Prosecco, Grappa, or the regional favorite, the Select Spritz. And don’t forget—Venetians love to celebrate, so let loose and join the party!Tourissimo Tips–Another fun suggestion is Veneto Marostica, the City of Chess, where they do a living chess match with hundreds of people dressed in medieval costumes every two years: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/marostica-the-city-of-chessPiedmont (Piemonte)Nestled at the foot of the Alps and bordered on three sides by the Mediterranean Sea, Piedmont is one of Italy’s most underrated gems. With a diverse landscape that offers adventure and beauty year-round, this region is perfect for both...
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    51 分
  • Meet the Founders of Tourissimo: Italy’s Premier Hiking and Cycling Tour Company for Authentic Travel

    Meet the Founders of Tourissimo: Italy’s Premier Hiking and Cycling Tour Company for Authentic Travel
    2025/04/08

    Beppe, a native Italian, started his journey in active travel over two decades ago and, with the help of his wife Heather, co-founded Tourissimo, one of the top adventure travel companies in Italy. With years of expertise designing cycling and adventure tours across all 20 regions of Italy, Beppe and Heather have the inside scoop on the most authentic and unforgettable experiences Italy has to offer.
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    42 分