The Traveling Fool
Bob Bales
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 news about travel and tourism to make your trip a little easier, cheaper and more memorable.
Quirky, Strange And Fun Festivals Around The World You Should Experience
Send us a textEver 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.But that's not all—we're cooking up a storm with some of the quirkiest food festivals across the globe. Each festival provides a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of human celebration, proving that food and fun
Discover the Birthplace of Texas: Brenham and Washington County Adventures
Send us a textEver 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 Barr
How Slow Travel Helps You Find Hidden Gems Around the World
Send us a textSlow 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. Feel free to drop me an email I would love to hear from you editor@thetravellingfool.com You can sign up for my
"Exploring the Shadows: What Is Dark Tourism and Why Does It Attract Millions?"
Send us a textWhat 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
10 of the Best Places to Travel to in January and February
Send us a textEver 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. Im
Discover Freedom: The Unique Benefits of Solo Travel for Seniors
Send us a textDiscover 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. Journey through practical advice for senior solo travelers, from overcoming language barriers with translation app
Exploring the Rich Heritage and Modern Marvels of Wichita
Send us a textExperience 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
Warm Winter Getaways: 7 Sun-Filled Destinations to Beat the Cold
Send us a textEscape 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
You'll Want To Use These Websites To Unlock Serious Savings On Travel
Send us a textUnlock 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.Craving a bargain on flights and accommodations? I w
Big Changes Coming to The Way People Travel That You Need To Know
Send us a textReady 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. Wh
Battleship Memorial Park: A Tribute to WW2 Valor and Courage
Send us a textStep 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 he
Exploring The Fascinating History of Ft Gaines and Ft Morgan
Send us a textWhat 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 Americ
Is AI Changing the Way We Travel for the Worse?
Send us a textIs 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. Stay with me until the end for a p
Journey Through the Heart of the Redneck Riviera
Send us a textWhat 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 hid
How Travel Themes Can Help You Achieve Amazing Memories On Your Next Trip
Send us a textWhat 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 Wal
Conquering the Open Road: A Comprehensive Guide to Planning a Road Trip
Send us a textEager 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 in
Small Country Town with a Big History: Celebrities, Outlaws, and Revolution
Send us a textWhy 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 diffe
How To Make Memorable Moments On Your Trip Without Spending A Lot
Send us a textThe Traveling Fool Episode 14 / How To Make Memorable Moments On Your Trip Without Spending A LotEver 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. Get ready to embar
Your Passport-Free Paradise: The US Virgin Islands
Send us a textEver 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. W
Episode #12 What is the reason for tourists behaving badly?
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. Feel free to drop me an email I would love to hear from you editor@thetravellingfool.com You can sign up for my email list Past Podcasts Follow me on social media FaceBook Twitter now X LinkedInInsta
Solo Travel Tips
Send us a textTips for traveling solo.Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. Feel free to drop me an email I would love to hear from you editor@thetravellingfool.com You can sign up for my email list Past Podcasts Follow me on social media FaceBook Twitter now X LinkedInInstagram
Solo Travel Myths
Solo travel myths and misconceptions Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. Feel free to drop me an email I would love to hear from you editor@thetravellingfool.com You can sign up for my email list Past Podcasts Follow me on social media FaceBook Twitter now X LinkedInInstagram
Ft Benton Montana, Old West Gunfights, A Mustachioed Madame and a Loyal Dog
Send us a textFt Benton Montana is known as the birthplace of Montana. This beautiful town is a great place to visit and it has quite a History.Resources Mentioned in this episode:Historic Ft BentonThe story of ShepThe Grand Union HotelPlease subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email listPodcast LinkFollow me on social mediaFaceBookTwitterLinkedInPlease subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. Feel free to drop me an email I would love to hear from you editor@thetrave
Goliad Texas A Jewel on The Texas Independence Trail
Send us a textA 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. List of people and resources mentioned in the episode The AlamoMission Nuestra Señora del Espíritu Santo de Zúñiga Presidio La Bahia Fannin BattlegroundThe Angel of GoliadGoliad Paddling TrailGoliad State ParkGoliad Market DaysMarket House MuseumSouth W
Uvalde Texas Home to Politicians, Outlaws and Actors
Send us a textUvalde 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 Tom O’Folliard King FisherThe Newton GangDolph BriscoeJohn Nance GarnerDale EvansMatthew McConaugheyGarner House MuseumDolph Briscoe Art Collection Aviation Museum at Garner FieldUvalde Grand Opera HouseDrive Tanks Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for my email listPodcast LinkFo
The Traveling Fool Episode 6 / The Town Named After a Drunk
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. Feel free to drop me an email I would love to hear from you editor@thetravellingfool.com You can sign up for my email list Past Podcasts Follow me on social media FaceBook Twitter now X LinkedInInstagram
Episode 5 / Bantayan Island Philippines
Send us a textMarch 10, 2020Bob Bales10 Mar 2020: Episode 5 / Bantayan Island PhilippinesA 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 Par
The Traveling Fool Episode 4/ Palawan Military Museum
3 March 2020: The Traveling Fool Episode 4/ Palawan Military MuseumThe 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 intro02:09 Palawan Special Battalion WW2 Memorial Museum05:59 POW Massacre at Camp 10A07:06 Iwah
The Traveling Fool Episode 3 / Newman's Castle
25 Feb 2020: The Traveling Fool Episode 3 / Newman’s CastleTake 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 TrialNewman's Castle Please subscribe and leave a review on I-Tunes. You can sign up for
The Traveling Fool Episode 2 / Pilsen Czech Republic
Send us a text18 Feb 2020: The Traveling Fool Episode 2 / Pilsen, Czech RepublicThe 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
The Traveling Fool Episode 1 / Tips To Traveling Off The Beaten Path
Send us a text 11 Feb 2020: The Traveling Fool Episode 1 / Tips To Traveling Off The Tourist PathYou 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
The Traveling Fool / Trailer
Send us a textTrailer 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. Feel free to drop me an email I would love to hear from you editor@thetravellingfool.com You can sign up for my email list Past Podcasts Follow me on social