Where Next? Travel with Kristen and Carol – Details, episodes & analysis

What if the dream trip starts feeling like a job? We sit down with traveler and author Melissa Rodway to unpack the real highs and lows of a life built on movement—starting with a wild childhood year in Western Australia, a no-guidebook leap through Europe in the 90s, and the pre-smartphone hacks that kept her safe and curious in Costa Rica.

The story turns when she quits an advertising job and heads to Southeast Asia for months of motion—Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and China—where gritty bus rides collide with occasional five-star stays. Melissa shares how travel fatigue sneaks in, why purpose is the antidote, and the moment a seasoned traveler taught her the hardest lesson of the road: know when to go home. Those long rides turned into pages, and pages into The People You Meet, a witty, honest travel book about culture, food, and the human dramas that follow you across borders.

Then we switch gears to a slower kind of adventure: five winter weeks in Quebec City during her year off. Daily cross-country laps on the Plains of Abraham, ice skating under big skies, a Nordic spa two minutes from home, and the electric roar of Carnival with its ice canoe races on the St. Lawrence. We dig into the ice hotel, maple syrup snow taffy, tourtière, French schools for all levels, and why Quebec is built for outdoor lovers in every season—plus practical tips on walkability, ferries to Lévis, nearby trails, and affordable stays that make lingering easy.

If you’re craving travel that’s deeper, steadier, and more you, this conversation is your map.

Map of Quebec City

You can find Melissa:

On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fly_travel_media/

Her website at: https://flyrodway.com

Melissa's book: The People You Meet Book

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

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Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee. 

We’re so excited to have Lyle and Leanne back from the Beach Travel Wine Podcast to dive into it all with us! Their stories and laughs always make the journey even better.

This time, we’re stepping into the “cathedrals of wine” at Lustau, chasing legends at Tío Pepe, and getting into the nitty-gritty of how sherry is made—humidity, flor, patience—and why it smells like caramel dreams. The Royal Andalusian School’s dancing horses bring the drama, but it’s the tabancos that steal the show: guitar, singing, clapping, and a dancer who pulls everyone into the moment. No velvet ropes—just locals, clinking glasses, and “Olé!”

Getting around is easy and budget-friendly. Fast trains link Sevilla, Jerez, and Cádiz, making day trips to castles, beaches, and white villages like Arcos de la Frontera and Grazalema a breeze. And when English tours are hard to find, the VoiceMap app turns your phone into a local guide with GPS-triggered stories you can pause for coffee and keep forever.

We’ve got tips on when to go (May–June or September are magic), how to handle siesta time, late-night dinners, cards vs. cash, and what to order—chicharrones, jamón, albóndigas—and why Andalusian plazas at night feel straight out of a movie.

If you’re chasing the real Spain—flamenco up close, sherry from the source, trains instead of traffic, and streets where tradition still lives—this is the place for you. 

To see pictures from Spain and hear about more adventures of Leanne and Lyle, visit their website:

https://www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast

Tour app mentioned: https://voicemap.me/

Map of Jerez de la Frontera

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

View all listening options: https://wherenextpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee. 

Unlock the secrets of the Maldives with our guest, David Brodie, as we explore this mesmerizing tropical paradise. Discover how the Maldives, a stunning collection of over 1,100 islands, offers a wide range of experiences from lavish luxury resorts to budget-friendly stays on vibrant local islands. David uncovers the evolving landscape of tourism in the region, where travelers can now experience the local culture and breathtaking beauty without breaking the bank.

Our conversation highlights the distinct contrasts between local islands, with their rich cultural norms, and the high-end resort islands that often cater to international tourists.

Finally, we explore the spectrum of accommodations available, from affordable stays on islands like Maafushi to the indulgent luxury of overwater bungalows at places like Kagi Maldives. Learn about planning your stay with practical tips on logistics, seasonal pricing, and choosing the right island experience for your travel style.

You can find David Brodie at the Voyascape Network

Map of Maldives

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

View all listening options: https://wherenextpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee. 

Kat Medina, takes us on an unforgettable journey through her life-altering experiences in Ecuador and other parts of South America. A spontaneous move to Loja during the 2009 recession led her to co-found a web design company that fuels her passion for travel and writing.

Discover the secrets of budget travel as Kat shares her insights on exploring South America affordably. From thrilling micro-bus rides to the cultural warmth of Colombian and Chilean towns, she paints a vibrant picture of life lived in the embrace of local communities. The picturesque towns of Malacatos and Vilcabamba come alive through Kat's vivid storytelling, highlighting the natural beauty and longevity that define these unique locales. Her tales reveal how immersing oneself in a local lifestyle can lead to profound cultural insights without breaking the bank.

Ecuador's rich ecosystems and cultural tapestry unfold as Kat guides us through diverse landscapes filled with natural wonders and burgeoning infrastructure. From the birdwatcher's paradise of Parque Nacional Por el Carpus to the heart-pounding taxi rides through the Andes, she captures the essence of Ecuador's evolving charm. Our exploration also embraces the country's culinary delights and cultural traditions, where local flavors like umitas and empanadas de viento tantalize the taste buds, and the vibrant music scene pulses with reggaeton and Quechua folk rhythms. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of adventure or the allure of Ecuador's laid-back lifestyle, Kat's experiences promise to inspire your next travel escapade.

Map of Ecuador

Kat's Book: The Joys of Jet Lag: How to Use a Traveler’s Mindset to Not be an A-Hole in Daily Life

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

View all listening options: https://wherenextpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee. 

Ever wondered what makes Sri Lanka a must-visit tropical paradise? Join us as we uncover the island's secrets with our insightful guest, Frank, a native of this exotic country rich in culture, history and nature. Growing up amidst lush greenery, sunny beaches, and the cooler hill country, Frank offers an insider's perspective on Sri Lanka's unique charm. Known as the 'Hawaii for Europeans,' this destination boasts a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural diversity. Learn about its tallest peak, Pidurutalagala, and understand why this island’s independence from India has shaped its distinct identity, making Sri Lanka a dream for any adventurer or nature lover.

Frank takes us through the vibrant cultural mosaic of Sri Lanka, where Sinhalese, Buddhist, and European influences merge to create a unique society. From the world-famous Ceylon tea to local customs and sweetened beverages, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness that makes Sri Lanka so compelling.

We also explore the hidden gems waiting for travelers such as Kandy's Temple of the Tooth and the iconic Sigiriya, Sri Lanka’s ‘Lion Rock’. Frank shares his favorite spots for wildlife encounters, including the majestic elephants, and recounts the island's renowned hospitality. Whether it’s enjoying delicious Sri Lankan cuisine, finding the best scuba diving spots, or surfing at Arugam Bay, this episode is your gateway to discovering the unparalleled allure of Sri Lanka.

Map of Sri Lanka

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

View all listening options: https://wherenextpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee. 

What if a simple relocation could completely transform your life? Meet Steve Hoffman, who took his family from Minnesota to a small village in the Languedoc region of Southern France and discovered a world of cultural immersion and personal growth. Through a chance encounter with an Irishman, Steve and his family were gifted a six-month stay in a picturesque setting far from the beaten path. This episode shares Steve's incredible journey as he recounts how the adventure tested their adaptability, yet ultimately enriched their lives, especially when they joined the local grape harvest and immersed in the vibrant food and wine culture.

Get ready to explore the nuances of Mediterranean living, where Steve's family embraced the rhythm of village life, forming deep connections and discovering culinary delights. From savoring simple yet robust flavors like a baked white fish fillet in a tomato, onion, garlic, and olive sauce, to navigating daily life without a village butcher or fishmonger, we discuss how their immersion in local traditions reshaped their understanding of French cuisine. Steve also delves into his career transformation from tax preparation and real estate to food writing, inspired by this profound experience.

Join us as we reflect on how living in Languedoc was a turning point for their family, offering unique insights into the Mediterranean lifestyle. Steve shares stories of personal growth, his children's newfound proficiency in French, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their future plans. Discover how the enchanting charm of Southern France left a lasting imprint on their lives, fueling their passion for travel, food, and cultural exploration. With tales of village life and local music enriching the narrative, this episode is a testament to the beauty of embracing new experiences.

Map of Béziers

You can find Steve Hoffman's website here.
Steve's LinkedIn here.
Steve's Instagram here.
Steve's book - A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France 

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

View all listening options: https://wherenextpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee. 

Join us as we chat with avid traveler Ella Parlor, who turned her solo honeymoon in Sydney into an ecological escapade in Cairns. After a lackluster cultural outing in Sydney, Ella shares how a retired travel guide and Airbnb host helped her discover the wonders of the Daintree Rainforest, revealing its stunning beauty and deep significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the Kuku Yalanji tribe for over 50,000 years. Discussing the challenges of trekking through this remote yet historically rich area, we underscore the importance of guided tours for ensuring safety and cultural respect. 

You can find Ella Parlor's website here.
Ella's LinkedIn here.
Ella's Instagram here.
Ella's YouTube channel, Eavesdrop with Ella, here.
Ella's TikTok, ellayourbella, here.

Map of Daintree Rainforest

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

View all listening options: https://wherenextpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee. 

Imagine a city where you can walk amongst skyscrapers one moment and spot a giraffe the next. Our guest, Vincent, fresh from a two-month adventure in Nairobi, takes us on an extraordinary journey through Kenya, sharing firsthand experiences from his upbringing near Lake Victoria to his current life in the Bay Area. We explore Kenya’s diverse tribes and educational system, and the unique blend of English and Kiswahili that colors daily conversations.

This episode shines a light on Kenya's rich cultural traditions and culinary delights, especially during Christmas. Discover how Kenyans celebrate the festive season with grand feasts and family gatherings, rather than focusing on gift-giving. We also discuss the regional culinary treats you can't miss, from succulent tilapia to the freshest coastal seafood. And if you're a travel enthusiast, our guest's tips on the best times to visit Mombasa, Lamu, and Malindi will be invaluable.

Finally, we delve into the vibrant sports culture and cosmopolitan lifestyle of modern Nairobi. Learn about the city's affordability compared to places like the Bay Area, the innovative mobile payment system M-Pesa, and the must-visit spots like Nairobi National Park and the Masai Mara National Reserve. Plus, get a taste of Kenya's sweet side with desserts like mandazi and mahamri, and explore the nation's music traditions that range from the ancient Nyatiti to contemporary Afrobeats. Tune in for a rich, multifaceted look at Kenyan life, culture, and travel that promises to both inform and inspire.

Map of Kenya

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

View all listening options: https://wherenextpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee. 

Join us as we celebrate our three-year anniversary! In this episode Kristen and Carol step away from our usual interviews to share personal stories, passions, and dreams. Carol reminisces about her favorite past residences, from the chilly beauty of Minnesota to the majestic mountains of Colorado, while basking in the pleasant Michigan weather and indulging in her love for baseball. Kristen shares her excitement for an upcoming Girl Scouts backpacking adventure and our mutual love for slow travel and the great outdoors, reflecting on how our podcast has become a cherished part of our lives.

Have you ever tried wake surfing? We dive into the exhilarating world of wake surfing and the meticulous preparations for competitions like Worlds. We discuss the serene control of lake conditions versus the unpredictable ocean waves and our dreams of owning a lakeside property. From horseback riding to dirt biking, we share personal anecdotes that highlight our joy in embracing new hobbies, all while reflecting on our career paths and the ultimate pursuit of financial independence to focus on community support and passion projects. It's a celebration of personal growth, new experiences, and building a life filled with passion.

The world is vast, and our love for exploring it knows no bounds. We take you on a journey through Japan, Thailand, and Belize, emphasizing the importance of immersing oneself in local cultures. Learn how to balance remote work with true exploration and get practical tips for affordable travel arrangements. Whether it's staying with friends or finding cost-effective destinations, we share our insights on making the most out of your travels. Plus, don’t forget to support our podcast by following, rating, and reviewing us on your app, and join our community on Instagram at "Where Next Podcast." Thank you for being a part of our adventure!

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

View all listening options: https://wherenextpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee. 

In this episode, Ajay Row takes us on an enlightening tour of Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay. With his extensive experience navigating the city's notorious traffic and bustling streets, Ajay offers a unique perspective on the everyday chaos and charm of Mumbai. His stories, drawn from living in the US, UK, France, Singapore, and various Indian cities, add a rich, global context to our understanding of this vibrant metropolis.

We dive into Bombay's unique geography, including its sailing culture and impressive tidal phenomena. From the monsoon's dramatic impact to the stunning high-rise views, Ajay provides a captivating look at Bombay’s past and present, painting a vivid picture of its ongoing transformation.

Our journey doesn't end there. We traverse the diverse regions of India, offering travel tips and cultural insights for those eager to explore beyond the beaten path. We also touch on India’s rich religious diversity and the mouth-watering delights of South Indian cuisine, featuring must-try dishes in South Bombay. This episode is packed with invaluable insights for travelers and culture enthusiasts ready to discover India’s endless possibilities.

Map of Mumbai

The Man Who Inspired Gandhi
by G. Pandrang Row Praemi M. Row

Life of privilege explained in a $100 race

Support the show

Please download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/

View all listening options: https://wherenextpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee.