Explore every episode of the podcast The Marvels and Mishaps of Travel
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monika Goes to Peru: A Close Call | 30 Jul 2025 | 00:45:42 | |
Some travel essentials came in handy when things did not go to plan in beautiful Peru. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess & Monika Go to Turkiye Together! | 19 May 2025 | 01:46:02 | |
Group travel is full of opportunities to explore a country with a knowledgeable and culturally aware guide who knows the language. It also lends itself to making new friends. Together, Jess & Monika, with their friends John and Marisa, embarked on an epic adventure through the awesome country of Turkiye with its many charming sites and unique experiences. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess & Monika Each Go to France, Part II | 01 Apr 2025 | 00:39:00 | |
While Monika is prancing through lavender fields, drinking champagne, and soaking up the Mediterranean Sea under the sun, Jess is on a farm in the French countryside struggling with the language and shoveling some shit. Marvels or mishaps. Choose your adventure. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess & Monika Each Go to France, Part I | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:51:42 | |
Come join us in Paris where enjoying wine, museums, monuments, baguettes and sophistication est la vie. Don't forget to count how many times we say "iconic." @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess & Monika Each Go to Iceland | 23 Feb 2025 | 01:01:36 | |
Looking for an easily accessible place to visit full of beauty and folklore? Laugh along with us as we explore Iceland and attempt to pronounce the many attractions it has to offer. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess & Monika Each Go to Mexico City | 01 Feb 2025 | 00:48:46 | |
With its tremendous cultural diversity, Mexico City is a must for visitors. Jess and Monika light up whenever they talk about their respective trips there. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess & Monika Each Go to Germany & Austria | 14 Jan 2025 | 00:56:19 | |
Castles! Christmas Markets!! ...and a concentration camp. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Goes to South Africa | 14 Dec 2024 | 00:43:00 | |
On this springtime adventure, Jess and her friend Tabitha visit the gem of South Africa: Cape Town. They visit animals on land and in the sea, they traverse gorgeous landscapes and dabble in the local culture and food. Tune in to find out more as we head into Season 3 to discover places where both Jess and Monika have visited. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Season 2 Finale: Monika Goes to India | 16 Nov 2024 | 00:55:10 | |
| Jess Goes to The Antilles | 19 Oct 2024 | 00:28:39 | |
On this Caribbean trip, Jess has a combination of a vacation and an adventure in the paradise of two islands in the Antilles while visiting dear friends. So much goes wrong and just enough also goes right that she is able to come to terms with some problems at home and in her personal life. Tune in to hear about this hilarious voyage that she still thinks fondly of in her memories. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika Goes to Walla Walla & Vancouver | 17 Aug 2024 | 00:56:30 | |
| Monika Goes to Armenia & Georgia, Part II | 20 Jul 2024 | 00:34:21 | |
| Monika Goes to Armenia & Georgia, Part I | 13 Jul 2024 | 00:55:33 | |
Tucked between Turkey and Russia are the two intriguing countries of Armenia and Georgia. Why visit these places? Follow Monika’s journey to the Lands of Free Water and Wine to find out! @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Goes to Prague, Vienna & Budapest | 01 Jun 2024 | 00:54:24 | |
On this exciting adventure through Central Europe, Jess, her mom and her friend, Jules, get a dose of each of three countries with history tours, cooking classes, delicious restaurants, boat tours and baths. Tune in for some education and ideas. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika Goes to Aruba | 04 May 2024 | 00:30:08 | |
If you are a fan of the Caribbean, Aruba is surely one to put on your list. Whether you fancy snorkeling over shipwrecks or horseback riding through breaking waves, Aruba's friendly locals and desert climate have much to offer. However, you may not want to check your luggage for this destination! @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess & Monika Go to Panama; Our First Trip Together! | 20 Apr 2024 | 01:07:08 | |
Our friend Chris always used to boast about how wonderful Panama is. He would invite us to go with him regularly. While he has passed, the two of us finally made it down there to see why this place was so magical for him. It did not disappoint. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess & Natasha Go to China; South Korea | 06 Apr 2024 | 01:01:58 | |
Alright so, you're probably wondering why we picked these places, which means you should tune in and learn all about it. Being on the other side of the world blows your mind every time, as does everything you will see in these places. We recommend the shoulder season for these countries, even if you have to bear the summer heat. Oh, and when it comes to the language barrier, at least make sure you bring an offline translator app along so you can point to communicate. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Goes to Maui, Hawaii | 16 Mar 2024 | 00:29:20 | |
On this once in a lifetime adventure with her mom, Jess goes deep into the Pacific Ocean to encounter marine life, volcanoes, farm animals, beautiful beaches and sunsets in Hawaii. It's full of fun and peril and is also a dream come true. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika Goes to Barbados | 02 Mar 2024 | 00:32:28 | |
Calling all Rihanna fans! Barbados is a Caribbean island with it's own unique vibe. If pristine white sand, turquoise water, tropical flowers and adorable sea turtles are calling, Barbados is the place to be. But you may want to think twice before renting a car because you'll need to drive on opposite side of the road! @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Cruises Through Central America | 17 Feb 2024 | 00:27:06 | |
In this activity packed adventure, Jess cruises through Central America and gets a taste of three different countries. Most of it is all fun and games until some things fall outside of her control. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika Goes to Guatemala | 03 Feb 2024 | 00:39:49 | |
Guatemala is one of the most underrated travel destinations that begs a second visit. From unique cuisines to kayaking on a lake surrounded by volcanoes, it's no wonder this country is a favorite for ex-pats. Join us on this memorable adventure to The Land of Eternal Spring. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Goes to 5 European Countries in a Week! | 20 Jan 2024 | 00:39:04 | |
On this semi-ridiculous and super fun adventure, Jess explores one city from each of five European countries. Driven by the travel bug, having to sleep in many different locations doesn't stop her. She meets people and learns new things wherever she goes. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika Goes to Malta | 06 Jan 2024 | 00:25:51 | |
One way to travel if you are tight on cash is to travel off-season. Luckily Malta is a destination with plenty to do year-round. However, sometimes our travel plans don't always line up with the rest of our life in the most optimal way. This episode highlights the challenges of a trip when you aren't your best self. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Goes to Singapore | 23 Dec 2023 | 00:34:02 | |
It's usually worth going along to the location where your significant other wants to go. Singapore does not disappoint in this short but sweet trip to the small country which is full of amazing food, pleasant beaches, entertainment and attractions that you will want to visit again and again. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika Cruises to Alaska | 02 Dec 2023 | 00:35:15 | |
There is more than one way to travel to Alaska, and in my humble opinion, this adventure cruise was the way to go. What better way to celebrate a milestone birthday than whale watching and glacial helicopter rides. Just watch out for bears! @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess & John Go to Peru | 18 Nov 2023 | 00:50:45 | |
On this highly diverse adventure, Jess & John get up early to see the many wonders that Peru has to offer. With a jam packed itinerary, they enjoy everything even when some things go wrong. There is no shortage of fun or activities or beauty along this trip. Oh yeah, and the food is amazing. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika & Marisa Go to the Galapagos Islands | 04 Nov 2023 | 00:53:42 | |
A place unlike any other, the Galapagos Islands are a nature lover's dream! With one "pinch me - is this real" moment after another, the Galapagos islands should be on everyone's bucket list. But whatever you do, keep a close eye on your phone! @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Goes to Finland & Estonia | 21 Oct 2023 | 00:38:01 | |
Come along with Jess and her friends to the Nordic part of Europe for some exciting Airbnb Experiences, museums and food tours. The trip is full of charm and awkward moments and is worth a thousand stories. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika Goes to Colombia: The Trip That Started It All | 07 Oct 2023 | 00:36:58 | |
Learning a new travel "style" can open a lot of new opportunities for more exotic destinations. Keeping an open mind and speaking your goals into the universe can help manifest some of your wildest dreams. If budget travel is one of those goals, check out this trip for less than 500$. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Goes to Haiti; The Trip That Started It All | 23 Sep 2023 | 00:31:13 | |
On her very first adventure, Jess has many mishaps in Haiti but ultimately has the time of her life. Nothing quite goes right and the trip is the greatest education she has ever gotten about the world, leaving her excited to travel further. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika & Shanee Go to Los Cabos San Lucas | 09 Sep 2023 | 00:57:28 | |
Mexico is a country I will return to over and over again. It's rich culture is as diverse as we are here in the United States. Each region offering up unique climate, geography, cuisine and colloquialisms. This particular trip had me and my dear friend and travel buddy, Shanee, on our way to Los Cabo San Lucas on the Baja Peninsula of Mexico. Where we indulged in the sights, sounds and flavors of Mexico, this trip truly came with a new set of challenges, stories and most importantly, memories. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Goes to Japan | 26 Aug 2023 | 00:41:58 | |
On this dynamic adventure, Jess travels via the high speed train to multiple cities in Japan. From mysterious forests, to petting wild deer, to dressing up as a cartoon in a go kart, this country is so full of things to do you will be wishing to go back for more. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika Goes to Belgium & Luxembourg | 12 Aug 2023 | 00:39:52 | |
Several attempts at making this trip happen served up a lesson in travel insurance, footwear, and eye care health, but ended up exceeding expectations in this delicious and quirky part of Western Europe. Join us in Belgium and Luxembourg for all the beer, chocolate, and waffles you can think of. Additionally, this trip was a major landmark accomplishment! @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Goes to Cambodia | 29 Jul 2023 | 00:43:03 | |
On this exciting adventure in Southeast Asia, Jess and her companion voyage through the Angkor Temples which were the inspiration Tomb Raider. They also try delicious food and visit beautiful animals. Jess finds that some stories about Cambodia are also tragic and deserve a visit to be acknowledged. The overall experience is wild and lends itself to many stories. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika Goes to South Africa | 15 Jul 2023 | 00:41:07 | |
Sometimes a country just touches your soul. Was it the diversity of the city? Maybe it was the unique history. Or perhaps it was the exotic wildlife or the delicious wine. South Africa will remain one of my top travel destinations for all time. Come join me on the adventure! @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Cruises to Antarctica | 01 Jul 2023 | 00:56:31 | |
On this seemingly perilous voyage across Drake's Passage and into the unknown of Antarctica, Jess along with her cousin Whitney and friend Alex enjoy many outdoor adventures, beautiful nature and the expertise of various expedition guides. The boat they take is not a luxury cruise ship but instead an expedition ship that can correct itself from some pretty daunting angles. But don't let that scare you! Everyone on the cruise ship also has fun and let's loose when they break it down on the dance floor (Helicopter pad) on deck! @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Jess Goes to Argentina | 15 Apr 2023 | 00:35:18 | |
On a grand adventure on her way to Antarctica, Jess explores various dynamic experiences in the metropolitan area of Buenos Aires and the Patagonia region of Ushuaia. Jess and her friend Alex and cousin Whitney explore how Gauchos live, sailing the Rio de la Plata, exploring various areas around the city and head down to Patagonia to check out some gorgeous lakes and a pretty cool train ride. But it isn't over yet. Argentina was in the FIFA world cup. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Monika Goes To Chile | 01 Apr 2023 | 00:40:17 | |
In Season 2 of The Marvels and Mishaps of Travel, destinations that either Jess or Monika has traveled will be the topic of each episode. Each of our podcasters will share her favorite moments of a recent or past trip. In this episode, Monika shares with us her most recent excursion to Santiago, Chile. Solo adventures are sometimes just the thing one needs to reclaim her power, rekindle her inner fire, and recharge her spiritual battery. Join Monika on her off-the-beaten path trip to Santiago, Chile where the sun shone bright, the mountains glowed red, and the wine flowed endlessly. Her stories, tips and antics will have you booking your next flight! @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Season 1 Finale: The Airport Experience | 18 Mar 2023 | 00:49:19 | |
In this episode, Jess & Monika cover everything you want to think about when you go to, arrive at, and leave the airport. They discuss getting to the airport a little early, bringing along “dangerous” hiking poles and ornamental souvenirs, bringing along an emotional support penguin (just kidding), needing a backup plan for your backup plan, and every other detail that would make you wonder if they were over thinking it until it happens to you. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Our Extensive Packing List | 18 Mar 2023 | 01:03:19 | |
In this episode, Jess & Monika go over textbook level knowledge of how exactly you want to pack for your vacations. Just as you would with a college textbook, consider this as something of a reference manual that will require a pencil and paper and skip ahead to the next episode if you want the “Sparknotes” style version of it. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| The ‘WHOs’ of Travel | 04 Mar 2023 | 00:47:08 | |
In this episode, Jess & Monika highlight that a travel partner can make or break a trip, so be mindful of who you decide to bring along on your travels. In fact, the best you could hope for is someone who gets just as excited about your plan. It isn’t all going to go smoothly, so make sure you are both in for the ride! @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| What's the Plan? | 18 Feb 2023 | 00:50:59 | |
In this episode, Jess & Monika point out that it isn’t actually hard to get “inspired,” but that we all hesitate to take the first leap. The dark unknown unfolds beautifully as we take our first informed and calculated plunge into the depths of planning travel and discover that we are in fact very capable. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| The Real Jess & Monika | 04 Feb 2023 | 00:07:34 | |
We welcome you to our podcast with this quick introduction on who we are and what has inspired us to become travel junkies. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||
| Travel. What's the Big Deal? | 19 Jan 2023 | 01:02:14 | |
In this episode, Jess & Monika shoot the sh#t about some of their favorite travel past times in their first episode about what inspires them to pursue travel-filled lives. In unfiltered form, their stories about favorite past times and hilarious times gone wrong bring up the energy in the room as they feed off of each other's laughter and gawk at each other in disbelief. Shooting down some common misconceptions about travel, Jess & Monika relate to each others' whimsies and woes regarding the memories they hold most dear to their hearts. @TheMarvelsandMishapsofTravel | |||