The Traveling Fool
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.
Episodes
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.
These overlooked histo...
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.
Whether you call them welcome centers, tourism boards, or CVBs (Convention and Visitors Bureaus)...
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.
From Nacogdoches, the oldest town in Texas that has flown nine different flags across its 300...
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.
Drawing from personal stories that span from small-town Texas to Czech beer halls and Filipino prisons, I reveal how real ...
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.
Subscribe, share your thoughts, or tell us about your travel blund...
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 essent...
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.
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...
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 Te...
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.
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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 ...
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, ...
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.
Journey through practical advice for se...
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 Kan...
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 ...
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 ...
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 Authorizatio...
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 th...
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...
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 richnes...
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 Stat...
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