Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Traveling Fool
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| From Kansas City to Palawan: Forgotten Stories of Valor | 22 May 2025 | 00:27:19 | |
Every monument tells a story. Every museum preserves voices that might otherwise be forgotten. As a veteran who served for two decades, I've always been drawn to military history – not for political reasons, but because these sites connect us to our shared human experience. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| 20 Underrated Historic Spots in Texas for Curious Travelers | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:38:11 | |
The famous historical landmarks of Texas like the Alamo and San Jacinto battlefield draw thousands of visitors each year, but the Lone Star State harbors dozens of lesser-known historic treasures that tell equally compelling stories without the crowds. In this episode, we uncover twenty overlooked historic sites across Texas that reveal surprising chapters of the state's rich past. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| 15 Reasons Visitors Bureaus Are a Traveler’s Best Friend | 10 Apr 2025 | 00:22:08 | |
Uncover the secret weapon that savvy travelers have been using for years – local Visitor's Bureaus. These often-overlooked offices hold the keys to transforming good vacations into unforgettable journeys, and today we're diving into exactly why you should make them your first stop in any new destination. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| 10 Best Underrated Places in Texas You Need To Visit | 27 Mar 2025 | 00:25:48 | |
What happens when you venture beyond the bright lights of Austin, the packed River Walk of San Antonio, or the urban sprawl of Dallas-Fort Worth? Texas reveals itself in ways no guidebook fully captures—through towns with characters as big as the state itself but too often overlooked by travelers chasing the obvious. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| You won't find these adventures on Instagram: How to become a modern-day explorer | 20 Mar 2025 | 00:27:00 | |
Ever feel like you're stuck in a tourist trap, surrounded by selfie sticks, waiting in line just to glimpse something you've already seen a thousand times on social media? There's a better way to travel, and it doesn't require visiting the Eiffel Tower or Times Square. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Don't Be That Tourist | 13 Mar 2025 | 00:21:15 | |
In this episode, we tackle the crucial topic of respectful travel and how to avoid the all-too-common pitfalls that turn people into "bad tourists." From respecting local customs to understanding food etiquette, we discuss ten essential tips to ensure your travels are both enjoyable and considerate to the cultures you are visiting. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Why I Prefer Road Trips Over Flights: A Personal Journey | 06 Mar 2025 | 00:21:03 | |
Experience the thrill of the open road as we delve into the advantages of road trips in our latest episode. Join me as I share my personal journey preparing for an exciting drive from Texas to South Carolina, discussing why I prefer the freedom of the highway to the chaos of airports. Hear stories from past adventures, sprinkled with insights about ensuring your vehicle is ready for long travels and packing the essentials to make the journey enjoyable. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Quirky, Strange And Fun Festivals Around The World You Should Experience | 30 Jan 2025 | 00:35:52 | |
Ever wondered how a cryogenically preserved grandfather became the life of the party? Join me, as we uncover the story behind this festival and other eccentric festivals, where the bizarre meets the beautiful, and communities come alive in the most unexpected ways. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Discover the Birthplace of Texas: Brenham and Washington County Adventures | 23 Jan 2025 | 00:26:05 | |
Ever wondered how a small town became the birthplace of a state as vast as Texas? Join me as I unravel the history and charm of Brenham and Washington County, Texas. From the hallowed grounds of Washington on the Brazos, where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed, to the intriguing exhibitions of the Star of the Republic Museum and Independence Hall, this episode promises to enrich your understanding of Texas' storied past. Together, we’ll step back in time at Barrington Plantation, where costumed guides vividly recreate early Texan life, and explore the quaint town of Chapel Hill, famous for its delightful festivals and mouth-watering Chapel Hill Sausage. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| How Slow Travel Helps You Find Hidden Gems Around the World | 16 Jan 2025 | 00:15:02 | |
Slow travel transforms vacations into meaningful journeys by encouraging travelers to take their time and connect with the places they visit. In this episode, we explore practical tips for embracing slow travel, the surprising encounters it can lead to, and why depth of experience matters more than the number of destinations. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| "Exploring the Shadows: What Is Dark Tourism and Why Does It Attract Millions?" | 09 Jan 2025 | 00:13:32 | |
What draws people to places marked by tragedy and suffering? Join me as we explore the fascinating and often misunderstood world of dark tourism on "The Traveling Fool." We examine why sites like Auschwitz, Pompeii, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial attract millions each year—is it morbid curiosity or a deeper quest for understanding and connection with history? I share my personal experiences visiting Civil War battlefields and Alcatraz, driven by a passion for history rather than a fascination with death. Together, we navigate the ethical considerations of this type of travel, particularly in today’s social media landscape, and uncover how modern travel has increased the accessibility of these powerful destinations. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| 10 of the Best Places to Travel to in January and February | 19 Dec 2024 | 00:26:31 | |
Ever wondered how to balance thrill and relaxation during the winter months? Get ready to explore some of the most exciting and lesser-known travel destinations for January and February. Discover why Park City, Utah, is a paradise for snow enthusiasts and film lovers alike, and how Galveston, Texas, provides a warm escape filled with history and vibrant festivals. Let me guide you through these remarkable U.S. spots, offering a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and tranquility. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Discover Freedom: The Unique Benefits of Solo Travel for Seniors | 05 Dec 2024 | 00:21:46 | |
Discover the liberating world of solo travel for seniors, as I share personal stories about newfound independence and adventure.This episode paints a vivid picture of why more seniors, especially women, are seizing the opportunity to explore the world on their own terms. With 84% of solo travelers being female, the adventurous spirit of senior women is truly inspiring. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Exploring the Rich Heritage and Modern Marvels of Wichita | 14 Nov 2024 | 00:24:42 | |
Experience Wichita like never before as I share a whirlwind three-day adventure through this fascinating city, promising insights into its rich Wild West history and modern marvels. From the legendary tales of Wyatt Earp to the authentic Old Cowtown Museum, this journey captures the essence of Wichita's past and present. We'll explore the legacy of Oscar-winning actress Hattie McDaniel, celebrated at the Kansas African American Museum, and reveal the humble beginnings of Pizza Hut, a global icon born of entrepreneurial spirit. Get ready to unlock the vibrant stories that make Wichita a treasure trove of culture and history. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Warm Winter Getaways: 7 Sun-Filled Destinations to Beat the Cold | 07 Nov 2024 | 00:25:00 | |
Escape the winter blues with us as we uncover hidden gems that promise warmth and adventure without the need for a passport. Ever dreamt of swapping snow for sunshine? From charming towns, outdoor activities like fishing, snorkeling and hiking, to casino escapades. Then, picture yourself basking in the sun on a beautiful beach with no stress. Enjoy National Parks or indulge in the bustling markets or immerse yourself in the local culture. As we wrap up, we'll beckon you with a tantalizing hint of a lesser-known American wonder, teeming with Wild West lore and cinematic history, promising to be the highlight of our next adventure. Safe travels and warm wishes as you chart your course to these sunny retreats! Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| You'll Want To Use These Websites To Unlock Serious Savings On Travel | 31 Oct 2024 | 00:24:04 | |
Unlock the secrets to affordable travel as I share a wealth of money-saving tips for your next getaway. Discover how a simple browser extension like can transform your booking experience by scouting for the best coupon codes, and learn about exclusive resources for active, retired military and veterans. These tools could be your ticket to a more budget-friendly vacation, whether you're planning a solo escape or a group adventure. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Big Changes Coming to The Way People Travel That You Need To Know | 09 Oct 2024 | 00:29:36 | |
Ready to transform your travel experience? Discover how Europe and the UK are redefining border security and streamlining processes with groundbreaking measures. Get the inside scoop on Europe's Entry and Exit System (EES) launching this November, and prepare for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) coming in 2025. Plus, learn about the UK's upcoming Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) that will affect non-European travelers by early 2025. While these innovations promise enhanced security and smoother journeys, anticipate some hiccups as these digital systems take flight. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Battleship Memorial Park: A Tribute to WW2 Valor and Courage | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:28:23 | |
Step aboard history and prepare for an unforgettable journey through Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, Alabama! Ever wondered what it feels like to be inches away from a Pershing tank or to navigate the decks of a colossal WWII battleship? This episode promises an immersive adventure as we explore an extraordinary collection of military tanks, artillery, and aircraft from key historical conflicts. We’ll guide you through the iconic exhibits, including Army One, the President's helicopter, and a flight simulator that offers a thrilling experience to every visitor. Plus, discover the storied USS Drum, the oldest American submarine on display, with an impressive record of 12 battle stars and 15 enemy ships sunk during World War II. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Exploring The Fascinating History of Ft Gaines and Ft Morgan | 18 Sep 2024 | 00:22:02 | |
What secrets do the bastions of Fort Gaines hide from the Civil War era? Journey with us to Dauphin Island, where we'll uncover the rich history of Fort Gaines, a pivotal stronghold in the Battle of Mobile Bay. Explore the pentagon-shaped fortification that protected the port of Mobile and discover the stories of soldiers who lived within its walls. From its completion in 1861 to its strategic significance during the Civil War and beyond, this episode offers a deep dive into American military history. As we walk through tunnels and gun magazines, we'll also touch on its sister fort, Fort Morgan, located just across the bay. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Is AI Changing the Way We Travel for the Worse? | 11 Sep 2024 | 00:18:47 | |
Is artificial intelligence ruining travel writing? Join me, Bob Bales, on The Traveling Fool Podcast as I confront the relentless invasion of AI in the travel industry. AI-generated content is drowning out authentic voices, overshadowing the unique perspectives of independent travel bloggers and personal websites. Drawing from my own journey as a ghostwriter, I highlight how AI's presence has weakened the richness of personalized biographies. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Journey Through the Heart of the Redneck Riviera | 04 Sep 2024 | 00:19:07 | |
What if the most serene, adventure-filled getaway was right in your backyard? Join me, Bob Bales, on the Traveling Fool Podcast as we uncover the charm of the Redneck Riviera, a stretch of paradise from Fort Morgan, Alabama to Panama City, Florida. Fresh from the Southern Travelers Explorer Conference, I share my firsthand experiences of this beloved Emerald Coast destination. From the powdery white sands of Gulf State Park Beach and the tranquil shores of Fort Morgan Beach, to hidden gems like Little Dome and Little Lagoon Beach, there's no shortage of breathtaking spots to relax and unwind. For the nature enthusiasts, we explore the diverse ecosystems and trails of Gulf State Park. And for those craving excitement, discover the thrill of deep-sea fishing charters and family-friendly local amusement parks like Adventure Island and Waterville, USA. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| How Travel Themes Can Help You Achieve Amazing Memories On Your Next Trip | 04 Sep 2024 | 00:13:06 | |
What if you could transform every trip into a more enriching and memorable experience by simply adopting a theme? Join me, Bob Bales, in this episode of the Traveling Fool, where I reveal the magic of theme travel. From immersing yourself in military history to exploring local food and drink scenes, we'll discuss how selecting a travel theme can open doors to hidden gems and fascinating stories. I'll share my adventures, like visiting the haunting "Prison Without Walls" in the Philippines and savoring delights at the oldest operating delicatessen in Texas. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Conquering the Open Road: A Comprehensive Guide to Planning a Road Trip | 25 Oct 2023 | 00:17:39 | |
Eager to embark on an adventure that takes you off the beaten path? Prepare to be armed with an extensive toolbox of road trip planning strategies. From the comfort of our studio, we take you through every aspect of road trip preparation, from prepping your vehicle to planning your route. Not only will we cover the basics, but also dive into how to use Google Maps beyond just directions. This versatile tool can help you explore alternate routes and discover fascinating points of interest to make your journey even more memorable. Hotels.com Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Small Country Town with a Big History: Celebrities, Outlaws, and Revolution | 18 Oct 2023 | 00:08:33 | |
Why do small towns often hold the most intriguing histories? What if secrets of famous figures from the past are just waiting to be uncovered in places many people overlook? Join me, Bob Bales, on a journey to an unsuspecting place that's been home to supermodels, outlaws, and even the King of Rock and Roll himself. That's right, we're heading to the heart of Texas, to a small town, packed with stories and historic events that will make you see small towns in a different light. A day in LaGrange Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| How To Make Memorable Moments On Your Trip Without Spending A Lot | 11 Oct 2023 | 00:13:03 | |
The Traveling Fool Episode 14 / How To Make Memorable Moments On Your Trip Without Spending A Lot Ever dreamt of embarking on unforgettable travels without emptying your wallet? In this episode I talk about how to make your trip memorable without breaking the bank. I'll share stories of simple and inexpensive experiences that turned out to be the most cherished moments, proving that travel isn't always about luxury hotels and pricey tourist attractions.
List of Resources Mentioned in This Episode
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| Your Passport-Free Paradise: The US Virgin Islands | 04 Oct 2023 | 00:16:29 | |
Ever dreamed of escaping to a tropical paradise that requires no passport for Americans to visit? Your dream is about to become a reality as we journey to the United States Virgin Islands, the overlooked treasure often eclipsed by Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Join your host, Bob Bales, as he peels back the layers of the islands' rich history, from Christopher Columbus' discovery to its interesting ties to figures such as Alexander Hamilton and the infamous Caribbean pirates. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Episode #12 What is the reason for tourists behaving badly? | 27 Sep 2023 | 00:49:09 | |
More and more tourists are behaving badly. Wether it is defacing historic properties, disrepecting cultures or putting themselves and others in danger. Is it because of likes on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook or are they just plain morons? Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Solo Travel Tips | 17 Sep 2023 | 00:11:04 | |
Tips for traveling solo. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Solo Travel Myths | 09 Sep 2023 | 00:11:14 | |
Solo travel myths and misconceptions Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Ft Benton Montana, Old West Gunfights, A Mustachioed Madame and a Loyal Dog | 05 Oct 2020 | 00:07:04 | |
Ft Benton Montana is known as the birthplace of Montana. This beautiful town is a great place to visit and it has quite a History. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Goliad Texas A Jewel on The Texas Independence Trail | 07 Sep 2020 | 00:09:13 | |
A lot of people have heard about the Alamo in Texas where close to 200 defenders held off 4,000 Mexican troops for 13 days before falling. Few people outside of Texas have heard of Goliad, which played a huge part in Texas history. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Uvalde Texas Home to Politicians, Outlaws and Actors | 01 Sep 2020 | 00:09:45 | |
Uvalde Texas is a small country town that has quite a history. Uvalde is also home to Outlaws, Politicians, and Actors. List of people and resources mentioned in the episode Aviation Museum at Garner Field Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| The Traveling Fool Episode 6 / The Town Named After a Drunk | 24 Aug 2020 | 00:06:03 | |
In this episode, we will tell you about a town that was once one of the richest towns in America. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| Episode 5 / Bantayan Island Philippines | 10 Mar 2020 | 00:15:50 | |
March 10, 2020 Bob Bales 10 Mar 2020: Episode 5 / Bantayan Island Philippines A short ferry ride off the coast of Cebu lies Bantayan Island with its beautiful beaches and laid back island life. Bantayan Island is a place where you can enjoy island life as it was meant to be without the crowds.
· 00:15 Show Intro · 03:13 Island life · 04:35 Sante Fe, Bantayan Island Philippines · 06:02 Bantayan City · 09:00 Virgin Beach, Bantayan Island · 09:36 Mangrove Eco Park · 11:13 Holy Week 12:50 Fresh of the Boat · List of resources mentioned in the episode St Peter and Paul Church Bantayan Island
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Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| The Traveling Fool Episode 4/ Palawan Military Museum | 03 Mar 2020 | 00:11:22 | |
3 March 2020: The Traveling Fool Episode 4/ Palawan Military Museum The island of Palawan in the Philippines is the site of the Palawan Military Museum, officially known as the Palawan Special Battalion WW2 Memorial Museum. In 1944 an incident occurred at the POW camp which would lead to a dramatic rescue that is still heralded as the most successful military rescue operation in us history.
00:18 Show intro List of resources mentioned in this episode Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| The Traveling Fool Episode 3 / Newman's Castle | 25 Feb 2020 | 00:08:39 | |
25 Feb 2020: The Traveling Fool Episode 3 / Newman’s Castle Take one man who loves history and castles. Let him dream about being a King and give him a little inspiration and you have Newman’s Castle.
· 00:20 Show Intro · 01:17 Matts Flights · 02:30 Newman’s Bakery · 03:15 Newman’s Castle · 07:34 Bellville Texas · List of resources mentioned in the episode Matt’s Flight’s Free Trial
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| The Traveling Fool Episode 2 / Pilsen Czech Republic | 18 Feb 2020 | 00:16:50 | |
18 Feb 2020: The Traveling Fool Episode 2 / Pilsen, Czech Republic The town of Pilsen in the Czech Republic is about 100 km from the tourist mecca of Prague. Only about one and a half hours by train from Prague, you can escape the crowds and explore a great town with quite a history.
· 00:05 Show Intro · 03:06 Pilsner Urquell Brewery · 05:26 Pilsen Underground Tunnels · 06:14 Cathedral of St Bartholomew · 06:47 Museum of West Bohemia · 08:16 General George S. Patton Memorial Museum · 14:09 Directions to Pilsen from Prague · List of resources mentioned in the episode General George S. Patton Museum
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| The Traveling Fool Episode 1 / Tips To Traveling Off The Beaten Path | 11 Feb 2020 | 00:20:31 | |
11 Feb 2020: The Traveling Fool Episode 1 / Tips To Traveling Off The Tourist Path You don’t have to pay a tour company an exorbitant amount of money to give you a manufactured experience or travel to the depths of the Amazon to travel off the beaten path. You just need to channel your inner explorer and adjust how you travel at your next destination. Here are 7 Tips to Traveling Off The Beaten Path.
· 00:31 Show Intro · 04:31 Tip 1 Get out and walk · 06:51 Talk to the locals · 07:43 Check out a map · 10:26 Google alternatives · 12:32 Use Public transportation · 14:43 Don’t stay in a hotel · 17:28 Do not take the major highways List of resources mentioned in the episode Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||
| The Traveling Fool / Trailer | 24 Jan 2020 | 00:01:05 | |
Trailer for The Traveling Fool Podcast. Traveling off the tourist path. Talking about those places most tourists just don't know about because, well, nobody ever told them. Also travel tips and general information to make your trip a little easier, cheaper and more memorable. Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email list Follow me on social media | |||