GoNOMAD Travel Podcast
GoNOMAD Travel Podcast

GoNOMAD Travel Podcast

Voyascape Media

Overview
Episodes

Details

Take a few minutes to travel the world with The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast. Brought to you by the long-running GoNOMAD travel website, The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast brings you audio stories from destinations around the globe. It's short-form... 3-7 minute long episodes. No jarring AM radio-style theme songs, no ads, just an interesting short travel story and some food for thought, from editor Max Hartshorne. Fun! While you're planning your next trip or travel adventure, download and listen to The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast. GoNomad is part of the Voyascape Travel Network & you can find more of our travel podcasts from around the world at https://voyascape.com/ https://www.voyascape.com/ ()

Recent Episodes

Colorado's Hot Spring Loop
FEB 6, 2025
Colorado's Hot Spring Loop
play-circle
4 MIN
What's New in 2025 for Travelers in NYC
FEB 3, 2025
What's New in 2025 for Travelers in NYC

The most significant development in New York City in 2025 is the implementation of the congestion pricing scheme, which has resulted in a remarkable reduction of 26,000 vehicles per day in Manhattan, thereby halving the accident rate in the area.

This transformative initiative reflects a broader commitment to enhancing urban mobility and safety. In addition to the congestion tax, the city has witnessed an expansion of iconic venues such as the High Line, the popular walking path, which is now extended to connect with the Moynihan Train Hall, and the introduction of new electric ferries that align with sustainability goals.

Furthermore, the theatrical landscape remains vibrant, featuring productions like "MJ the Musical" and the latest Harry Potter play, which continue to draw enthusiastic audiences.

Read more at

https://www.gonomad.com/254089-new-york-city-in-2025

The evolution of New York City in 2025 is marked by significant transformations in urban planning and transportation, epitomized by the introduction of congestion pricing. This innovative policy has notably diminished vehicular traffic by 26,000 vehicles daily, thereby halving the accident rate, which speaks to the city's commitment to enhancing public safety and reducing congestion.

As we traverse Manhattan, it becomes clear that the streets feel less cacophonous, providing a more pedestrian-friendly environment. This transition reflects a broader movement towards sustainability, with various initiatives, including the expansion of bike lanes and the introduction of electric ferries, working in tandem to foster a greener urban ecosystem.

The modernized Moynihan Train Hall stands as a testament to the city's architectural renaissance, offering travelers an inviting and luminous gateway to the heart of New York.

Takeaways:

  • In 2025, New York City's congestion pricing has successfully reduced vehicular traffic by 26,000 daily, significantly enhancing urban mobility.
  • The implementation of electric ferries and expanded bike lanes demonstrates the city's commitment to sustainable transportation initiatives.
  • The recent extension of the High Line now connects to the Moynihan Train Hall, providing a seamless transit experience for pedestrians.
  • Broadway continues to thrive in 2025, showcasing remarkable productions such as MJ the Musical and the latest Harry Potter play, attracting large audiences.
  • New York City's public transportation has been modernized with contactless payment options, revolutionizing the convenience of riding the subway.
  • The Museum of Modern Art has unveiled a $450 million expansion, emphasizing its dedication to digital art and immersive experiences for visitors.

play-circle
6 MIN
Exploring York: The Original Tourist Destination
JAN 21, 2025
Exploring York: The Original Tourist Destination

York, England, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and charm, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Known for its stunning York Minster, the city boasts a rich heritage that dates back to 71 AD, including ancient walls and Viking history.

Visitors can enjoy a delightful experience at Betty's Tea Room, famous for 60 years for its traditional tea and crumpets, and explore the fascinating exhibits at the National Railway Museum. The atmosphere is further enlivened by street performers, such as a talented boogie-woogie piano player who brings a lively spirit to the town. With its haunted history and ghost tours led by engaging local guides, York invites travelers to uncover its many stories and treasures.

York, in the north of England near Leeds, is one of the most popular tourist sites in England. It has the huge York Minster, a boogie-woogie piano man in the street, Betty's Tea Room and the National Railway Museum, plus ancient walls and Viking history. Read more about York, England.

https://www.gonomad.com/2175-york-england-the-original-york

Nestled between Leeds and the east coast, York boasts a rich tapestry of experiences, from its impressive medieval walls to the scenic River Ouse that runs alongside them. Listeners are transported to the vibrant streets where the sounds of a boogie-woogie piano player fill the air, reminding us of the city's lively atmosphere.

Listeners are invited to take a stroll through Shambles, an ancient street that retains its 19th-century charm, once bustling as the city's meat market. The narrative unfolds to reveal the Viking history that shaped York, with mentions of the Jorvik Viking Center, where visitors can experience life as it was in the Viking age. The episode doesn't shy away from the darker side of York's past, sharing chilling tales of ghostly encounters and the tragic events at Clifford's Tower in 1190, where a mob's violence led to a significant loss of life in the Jewish community.

Through the voice of local guide Mark Graham, listeners gain insight into the ghost tours that reveal York's haunted heritage, making the city not only a destination for history buffs but also for those intrigued by the supernatural. This rich tapestry of narratives creates an enticing invitation to explore York, a city that is undeniably steeped in history yet vibrantly alive with local culture and attractions.

Takeaways:

  • York, England is a historic and scenic city with a rich history dating back to 71 AD.
  • Visitors to York can enjoy attractions like the York Minster and the National Railway Museum.
  • Betty's Tea Room in York has been serving tea and crumpets for over 60 years.
  • York is known for its ancient city walls and is one of England's most haunted towns.
  • The Jorvik Viking Center offers a glimpse into Viking life with animatronic displays.
  • Ghost tours in York, especially by Mark Graham, share spooky tales from the city's past.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

  • Betty's Tea Room
  • National Railway Museum
  • 19 Restaurant
  • Jorvik Viking Center

Links referenced in this episode:


play-circle
4 MIN
Buried in Bliss: Experience Psamotherapy on Porto Santo
JAN 8, 2025
Buried in Bliss: Experience Psamotherapy on Porto Santo

Join travel writer Aysia Reed as she explores Porto Santo, a hidden gem in the Madeira archipelago known for its unique psamotherapy treatment. This therapy involves being buried up to your neck in mineral-rich sand, providing incredible health benefits for those seeking relief from inflammation and stress. With beautiful beaches, natural pools, and a tranquil environment, Porto Santo is a perfect escape for wellness enthusiasts. The island also boasts a unique wine made from the rare Caracol grape, adding to its allure for food and drink lovers. Don't forget to also visit Madeira, where you can indulge in the region's famous wines and breathtaking landscapes.

Madiera is famous for its 600-year wine-exporting tradition, Porto Santo is a smaller island in the same Atlantic archipelago. On Madiera, there are many chances to taste their prized wines and take jeep tours in the countryside. Find out more on GoNOMAD.com

https://www.gonomad.com/181067-porto-santo-relaxing-island

Asia Reid invites listeners to explore the enchanting island of Porto Santo, a tranquil retreat nestled within the Madeira archipelago. Often overlooked in favor of its more popular sister island, Madeira, Porto Santo beckons with its golden beaches and therapeutic wonders. The episode paints a vivid picture of this idyllic destination, highlighting its calm atmosphere, perfect for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Reid shares insights into the island’s unique charm, emphasizing its appeal to travelers who wish to escape the bustling tourist hotspots of Europe.

A significant focus of the episode is on psamotherapy, a traditional treatment that utilizes the island's mineral-laden sands for health benefits. Reid explains how visitors can experience this ancient practice, which involves being buried in warm sand to allow the minerals to work their magic on the body. The discussion delves into the science behind the therapy, discussing its potential to relieve conditions like arthritis and inflammation. This captivating aspect of Porto Santo offers a compelling reason for travelers to venture off the beaten path and engage with local wellness traditions.

The podcast further explores Madeira’s rich cultural heritage, particularly its famous wine-making tradition that spans over 600 years. Reid encourages listeners to indulge in the unique flavors of the Caracol grape, which is exclusively cultivated on Porto Santo, though processed on Madeira. The episode concludes by inviting listeners to discover the exquisite landscapes and culinary experiences that await in this remarkable destination. For those in search of a serene getaway that combines natural beauty with rich cultural experiences, Porto Santo is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Takeaways:

  • Porto Santo, a hidden gem in the Madeira archipelago, offers stunning beaches and unique therapy.
  • Visitors can experience psamotherapy, a treatment where you're buried in mineral-rich sand.
  • The island's natural pools provide a relaxing alternative to the open sea for healing.
  • Madeira is known for its rich wine culture, with a history of over 600 years.
  • Porto Santo's unique Caracol grape offers a distinct wine experience for travelers.
  • Don't miss the lush gardens and rich history of Madeira while visiting Porto Santo.

Links referenced in this episode:


play-circle
4 MIN
Overtourism in Mallorca: A Tale of Locals vs. Tourists
DEC 23, 2024
Overtourism in Mallorca: A Tale of Locals vs. Tourists

Overtourism has become a pressing issue for popular destinations like Palma de Mallorca, Spain, which welcomed 17 million visitors in 2023 alone. As the influx of travelers overwhelms local resources, residents feel the strain, with soaring housing prices and stagnant wages exacerbating the problem. Protests in various Spanish cities last summer highlighted the locals' frustrations with the tourists and the lack of affordable rentals during the peak season.

The episode explores the stark income disparity between wealthy visitors and lower-paid locals, and the impact of vacation rentals on the community. Solutions such as raising wages, increasing housing availability, and imposing stricter regulations on short-term rentals are discussed as potential ways to address the challenges posed by over-tourism. Plus an interview with a local tourism guide named Marise from Palma. who faces challenges from locals frequently.

Mallorca, a stunning Mediterranean island, has become a focal point for conversations around overtourism, particularly following a significant influx of visitors in recent years. With 17 million tourists arriving in Palma alone in 2023, the local population feels the strain. One solution is cutting cruise ships down to three landings per day.

The conversation sheds light on the urgent need for sustainable tourism practices that protect the cultural integrity of destinations and ensure the well-being of local communities.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

  • Airbnb
  • VRBO

play-circle
6 MIN