A Lady Well-Travelled | World Travels & Savvy Travel Tips

Send us Fan Mail Join Shannon Bednarova, host of A Lady Well‑Travelled , for a look at her late-2026 travel plans and the journeys ahead in 2027. From the historic towns of the Balkans to Egypt’s ancient treasures, Turkey’s biblical sites, and the vibrant cultures of India, this episode offers inspiration for travelers who love history, culture, food, and meaningful experiences. First, hear what’s ahead on a Balkans tour through Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Croatia. Shannon shares her excitement about exploring historic destinations and trying a new tour company, with firsthand reviews of sights, restaurants, and the overall experience to follow. Looking ahead to February 2027, Shannon previews an Egypt adventure with Jewel Rozanski of Cultured Travel. Planned highlights include the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum, and a seven-day Nile cruise aboard a historic steam paddle boat. A sunrise hot-air balloon ride near Luxor adds another much-anticipated experience to this journey through ancient Egypt. October brings a faith-centered trip to Turkey with Pastor Grant Etheridge of Liberty Live Church. With Istanbul and sites connected to the Seven Churches of Revelation on the itinerary, Shannon looks forward to exploring early Christian history through biblical context, sightseeing, and worship. She also shares why faith-based travel holds a special place in her life. Next comes a planned three-week Road Scholar journey through northern and southern India. Hear the childhood story that sparked Shannon’s lifelong fascination with India, then discover the experiences to which she’s looking forward: the Taj Mahal in Agra, meals with local families, temples, palaces, tea plantations, train travel, and river cruising in the south before ending in Cochin. Shannon also considers additional adventures in Eastern Europe and visits to more of the U.S. states still on her list. Along the way, she explains her commitment to honest travel reviews, practical lessons, and sharing the memorable finds that make a trip special. Follow A Lady Well‑Travelled for future destination reports and share this episode with someone planning their next adventure. DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail Discover Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, with Shannon Bednarova on A Lady Well‑Travelled. In this episode, Shannon shares memories of teenage weekends at the lake and return visits decades later, exploring how this beloved mountain getaway has changed. Shannon describes why Smith Mountain Lake is a beloved destination for nature lovers and water babies from across the United States and why Southern Living Magazine dubbed it "the Lake Tahoe of the East". This gigantic man-made lake offers some of Virginia's most gorgeous waterfront property with multi-million-dollar mansions stretching across its 500 miles of shoreline. Looking for things to do at Smith Mountain Lake? Come along for a conversation about boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and the quiet coves that make time on the water so memorable. From gorgeous seasonal scenery, sparkling golden diamond sands to waterfront dining and the appeal of a houseboat vacation, this episode offers inspiration for a relaxed Virginia lake getaway. Shannon also looks beyond the shoreline to Moneta, Rocky Mount, Floyd, and Roanoke, sharing ideas for nearby outings, winery and brewery tours, places to stay, and getting to the lake. Whether you’re considering a Smith Mountain Lake vacation or simply love personal travel stories, join A Lady Well‑Travelled for a warm, nostalgic look at life on and around the water. DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail Can a passport coexist with a cancer diagnosis? In this thoughtful—and refreshingly honest conversation, Shannon welcomes gynecologic medical oncologist and luxury travel advisor Dr. Merry Jennifer Markham to explore how travel can restore the body, steady the mind, and nourish the soul. What you’ll hear Dr. Markham discusses the realities of traveling during or after cancer treatment, from fatigue and medication, radiation and chemotherapy schedules to choosing destinations with appropriate medical care nearby. No one is suggesting that sunscreen and room service replace an oncology team—but with careful planning, illness does not always mean having to postpone or cancel the journey. In fact, Dr. Markham firmly believes that travel has incredible therapeutic benefits for anyone who suffers from illness or needs restoration and healing. The emotional side of travel Shannon and Dr. Markham also examine the harder questions: why spending money on meaningful experiences is worth it, confronting mortality, and permitting yourself to enjoy life while navigating illness at the same time. Their conversation is compassionate, honest, and grounded in the belief that making memories is never frivolous and may be the best gift you can give to your friends and family. Travel for healthcare professionals This conversation also addresses the physicians, nurses, therapists, technologists, and other healthcare professionals who spend their days caring for everyone else. Dr. Markham shares how restorative travel can help overworked caregivers step away, breathe deeply, and remember that they are human beings—not exceptionally competent machines fueled by coffee. M Markham Travel specializes in helping these extremely busy individuals and their families get away, unwind, restore and rejuvenate. Who should listen This episode is for anyone living with cancer or another serious illness, supporting a loved one, recovering from treatment, or feeling burned out by a healthcare career. It offers encouragement and practical questions to consider before booking—not necessarily a prescription, but perhaps a gentle nudge toward the departure gate. https://mmarkhamtravel.com/ Instagram (2) Facebook https://www.linkedin.com/in/merryjennifermarkham DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail How Bangkok Bill turned one life-changing trip into a passion for helping others discover the real Thailand What if the life you keep dreaming about is waiting on the other side of one courageous decision? In this episode, Bangkok Bill Mullen shares how he left corporate burnout behind, sold everything, and built a new life in Thailand—one filled with adventure, purpose, and unforgettable experiences. Bill takes us beyond the typical tourist itinerary (think Phuket) to reveal the Thailand he has come to know and love. We talk about lush islands, world-class scuba diving, bustling food markets, welcoming local communities, and hidden places that still feel beautifully untouched. He also shares practical guidance on affordable flights, the best times to visit, trip length, language barriers, local guides, and getting more value from every travel dollar. This conversation is both a Thailand travel guide and an invitation to rethink what is possible. Whether you are planning your first trip, searching for authentic cultural experiences, or considering a major life change, Bill offers grounded advice and inspiring perspective to help you move from dreaming to doing. Listen in for recommendations on Koh Kood, the Emerald Cave, island hopping, Thai cuisine, ethical elephant swimming experiences at rescue centers, and custom trip planning. You will also hear how Thailand gave Bill a new calling—and how he now helps others experience the country with more confidence, connection, and curiosity. Bangkok Bill Mullen is a Thailand travel advocate, podcaster, author, and trip-planning resource who turned his own move abroad into a mission to help others discover the country’s culture, natural beauty, and lesser-known destinations. He'll soon be touring the United States to promote his new book, Getting Lost in the Magic of Thailand: Island Hopping Down the Siam Spice Route Email: support@thailandadventurenetwork.com Podcast Link: https://www.thailandadventurenetwork.com/apple-episodes Order Book: https://www.thailandadventurenetwork.com/book DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail Ready to experience Egypt beyond the ordinary, rushed tour-bus itinerary? In this special episode of A Lady Well Travelled, Shannon Bednarova explores CulturED Travel’s 12-day luxury Egypt journey departing in February 2027. Tour Dates February 21 - March 4. 2027. Discover what makes this small-group itinerary different, from a seven-night Nile cruise aboard the historic SS Karim, a bespoke royal yacht used by kings and presidents, and the expert guidance you'll receive the entire trip from a certified Egyptologist. You'll also enjoy an exclusive “Between the Paws” visit at the Great Sphinx, five-star hotels, Abu Simbel, Luxor, Aswan, Cairo, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and Jewel Rozanski’s unforgettable “No Jerks” policy. Learn how trusted local relationships, thoughtfully chosen inter-Egypt flights, and immersive cultural experiences can make a once-in-a-lifetime trip more safe, comfortable, truly meaningful, and fun. You'll bring home memories and relationships that will last for a lifetime - and isn't that what travel is about? Learn more: Luxury Egypt Tours: 12-Day Private Journey with Egyptologist Guide | Cultured Travel | CulturED Travel Royal Egypt 2027 DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail What if the most valuable investment you make isn’t in your financial portfolio, but in the memories you create with the people you love? In this episode of A Lady Well-Travelled , Shannon Bednarova welcomes Paul Partridge to explore how thoughtful planning can transform a group vacation into a meaningful investment in friendship, family, and life. Drawing on his background in finance and investment advising, Paul shares how he transitioned into the travel industry after recognizing the powerful connection between money, personal priorities, and unforgettable experiences. He discusses how travelers can use their resources wisely—not simply to spend more, but to travel well and create memories that will last far beyond the journey itself. Shannon and Paul also examine one of the greatest challenges in group travel: bringing together people with different interests, personalities, and expectations. Paul introduces his Travel Type Matching™ Program, an approach designed to help travelers enjoy time together while still having the freedom to pursue the activities they love, from beaches and museums to hiking and outdoor adventures. The conversation also covers the advantages and disadvantages of vacation rentals, what distinguishes the properties featured through Travel Villa Guide, and why reliable support can make such a difference when staying abroad. Paul shares common mistakes Americans make when organizing international group trips, offers advice for selecting destinations that appeal to a wide range of travelers, and provides practical recommendations for planning a trip of a lifetime without unnecessary stress or conflict. Whether you are organizing a multigenerational family vacation, a getaway with friends, or your first group journey overseas, this episode offers valuable guidance for choosing the right people, places, accommodations, and priorities. Discover how to balance togetherness with independence—and how to turn your next trip into one of the best investments you will ever make. Get The Together Letter Ideas for turning “we should all get together” into a trip everyone still talks about for years. It's Free! Just use this link" Luxury Celebration Travel & Private Villa Experiences | Travel Villa Guide DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail In this heartfelt and humorous episode of A Lady Well-Travelled , Shannon continues her Outer Banks adventure with an unforgettable RV breakdown on remote Cedar Island, North Carolina. After a peaceful ferry ride from Ocracoke turns into a stressful parking brake failure in the middle of an OBX North Carolina wildlife refuge, Shannon and Karen find themselves stranded, overheated, and unsure how they will get home to South Carolina. What begins as a travel mishap quickly becomes a moving story about faith, the kindness of others, quick thinking, and the unexpected strangers who show up exactly when they are needed to provide help. This episode highlights the beauty and remoteness of the North Carolina coast, the unique character of Ocracoke and Cedar Island, and the generosity of two local men, Clay Gaskill of Coastal Outboard Repair and Shane Wells of the North Carolina Marine Patrol. With plenty of laughter, gratitude, and real-life travel lessons, this story is a reminder that some of the most memorable journeys are not the smooth ones, but the ones where people step up, help each other, and restore your faith in humanity. These two gentlemen are an example for others of what chivalry, graciousness and true manhood should be...not loud, demanding and arrogant, but calm, steady and willing to do whatever it takes to make the situation better. We all need more of that in our lives, don't we? DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail In this first part of a two-episode story, A Lady Well-Travelled host, Shannon Bednarova, invites listeners along for a funny, heartfelt, and beautifully imperfect RV road trip through South Carolina, Virginia and North Carolina’s beloved Outer Banks. What begins as a practical trip to handle a move quickly turns into a classic real-life travel story filled with unexpected detours, moving-company drama, coastal comfort food, stormy skies, ferry rides, dolphins, small-town kindness, and the unforgettable magic of the OBX. Since both Shannon and her best friend, Karen, grew up in Eastern NC, the road trip becomes a nostalgic chance to revisit the beaches, towns, roads, and coastal landscapes that shaped many of their younger memories. But as often happens in real travel, things do not go exactly according to plan. Rather than letting the experience ruin the trip, Shannon pivots with humor, perspective, and a strong “life happens” attitude. For travelers interested in ferry travel, RV trips, and coastal North Carolina, this segment offers a vivid sense of what makes the Outer Banks such a unique destination. To Shannon, Ocracoke feels like the “Key West of the Carolinas” — colorful, relaxed, quirky, and unforgettable. This episode is perfect for listeners who love real travel stories, funny travel mishaps, women’s travel adventures, RV road trips, Outer Banks vacations, North Carolina coastal travel, ferry rides, Southern travel, local restaurants, nostalgic travel, and honest reflections on what happens when a trip goes sideways but still turns into a beautiful memory. And guess what - Part Two is even BETTER! DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of A Lady Well‑Travelled , Shannon Bednarova sits down with Jewel Rozanski — founder of Cultured Travel and a former Spanish teacher who transformed her love of culture, history, and education into a boutique travel company built on depth rather than volume. Jewel shares how her years in the classroom shaped her philosophy of travel, why curated destinations matter, and how she designs journeys that feel immersive, intentional, and genuinely life‑expanding. Together, Shannon and Jewel explore the authenticity missing in mainstream travel itineraries, but what you get instead: a rushed, noisy, “checklist” mentality of a trip. She explains why she focuses on a small number of destinations she knows intimately, how Churchill, Manitoba became one of her signature trips, and why matching the right personalities within a group can completely transform the experience. They dive into traveler psychology, adaptability, and the subtle art of reading people — from the easygoing explorer to the traveler who finds fault in everything. Jewel also breaks down how she chooses new destinations, how her approach differs from other travel operations and why immersive travel can help people move through fear, trauma, heartbreak, anxiety, and major life transitions. Whether you’re considering your first culturally rich journey abroad or deciding between saving for a deeply planned trip versus taking a budget getaway, this conversation offers clarity, honesty, and perspective. It’s an episode for travelers who want more than movement — they want meaning, connection, and a world that teaches them something. www.culturedtravel.org info@culturedtravel.org DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail In this thought-provoking episode of A Lady Well-Travelled , Shannon Bednarova goes beyond the headlines to explore the history, cultures, people, food, and destinations of the Middle East with Emmy-nominated filmmaker, historian, novelist, and world traveler Neil Laird. At a time when conflict involving Israel, Iran, the United States, and other countries across the region has dominated the news, understanding the Middle East can feel more complicated than ever. But behind today's headlines lies a remarkable tapestry of ancient civilizations, extraordinary architecture, archaeological treasures, culinary traditions, religious history, and cultures that have shaped the world for thousands of years. Neil Laird has produced more than 100 historical programs and traveled to more than 70 countries, including extensive travel throughout the Middle East. Shannon and Neil discuss the profound historical journey from ancient Persia to modern Iran, what Americans may misunderstand about Iranian culture and its people, and the many layers of history and faith found throughout Israel. The conversation also takes listeners to some of the region's most fascinating destinations, including Egypt, Jordan, Petra, and Syria, while exploring other Middle Eastern countries that deserve a place on the traveler's wish list. Neil shares insights into what travelers should consider when planning a future trip to the region and how to stay informed about changing conditions and travel safety. And because no A Lady Well-Travelled conversation would be complete without food, Shannon and Neil also explore the incredible culinary traditions of the Middle East—from hummus, shawarma, pita, kibbeh, falafel, and kabsa to the dishes that every serious traveler and food lover should experience. Most importantly, this episode looks beyond politics and conflict to the human beings who call the Middle East home. It is an invitation to learn more, travel more thoughtfully, question assumptions, and see one of the world's most historically significant regions with greater curiosity and understanding. Join Shannon and Neil for a fascinating journey beyond the headlines—and into the history, culture, people, and places of the Middle East. Home | Author Neil Laird | Prime Time Travelers DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail What does luxury travel really mean? Is it a five-star hotel, impeccable service and extraordinary cuisine—or is true luxury something much more personal: having an authentic experience, discovering a place before the crowds arrive, connecting with local culture, or having the freedom to experience a destination in a deeply meaningful way? On this episode of A Lady Well-Travelled , Shannon Bednarova welcomes Eleanor of Elevate Your Escapes , a seasoned traveler who has explored more than 70 countries and now uses her experience to help clients create bespoke, immersive and highly personalized travel experiences around the world. Shannon and Eleanor take a thoughtful look at the changing definition of luxury travel and why the word “luxury” may have become overused in today's travel industry. They explore the difference between simply staying in an expensive hotel and creating a truly exceptional journey—one that reflects a traveler's individual interests, passions and definition of luxury. The conversation also explores the growing desire for authentic travel experiences . Rather than simply checking famous destinations off a bucket list, Eleanor explains how she approaches travel planning with an emphasis on local culture, cuisine, history, language and genuine connections. For today's discerning traveler, the most memorable luxury may not be extravagance at all—it may be access, authenticity, privacy, discovery and time. If you have ever wondered how a luxury travel advisor creates a completely customized itinerary, this episode offers an inside look at bespoke travel planning and the art of designing a journey around the traveler rather than simply selling a destination. Shannon and Eleanor also discuss some of the world's most exciting destinations for experienced travelers who have already visited the traditional favorites. From Peru and the Galápagos to Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Zanzibar, Albania, Montenegro, Poland and Palawan in the Philippines , they explore where sophisticated travelers may want to look next for extraordinary experiences. And because Eleanor specializes in honeymoon travel , the conversation turns to the art of creating unforgettable romantic journeys. Hear about the kinds of imaginative honeymoon experiences that can transform a once-in-a-lifetime trip into a deeply personal beginning to a new chapter. Peru also gets special attention as Shannon and Eleanor share their enthusiasm for one of the world's most fascinating culinary destinations. From incredible freshness and diversity to the blending of ancient traditions with contemporary cuisine, Peru demonstrates how food can become one of the most meaningful ways to experience a culture. Whether you're an experienced traveler searching for your next great destination, planning a luxury honeymoon, dreaming about a bespoke itinerary, or simply wondering how to make your travels more authentic and meaningful, this conversation offers plenty of inspiration. Because perhaps the greatest luxury in travel isn't simply where you go . It's how you experience it. Elevate Your Escapes DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail This episode pulls back the curtain on a controversial but very real part of global travel: Americans crossing into Canada, Mexico, and beyond to buy prescription drugs. Shannon begins by mapping out the six drivers behind this trend—from astronomical U.S. drug prices to the ease of walk‑in pharmacies abroad, long appointment wait times, high office‑visit costs, AI‑assisted self‑diagnosis, and the desire to avoid PDMP surveillance. As she notes, “It happens all the time… Sometimes it works out just fine. Other times, it goes incredibly, tragically wrong” . This episode doesn't address the illicit drug trafficking problem the United States faces, nor does it address travel abroad for experimental or non-FDA approved medical treatment for cancer, or other life-threatening illnesses, or PTSD (with psychedelics, such as ibogaine and ayahuasca), etc. Shannon then shifts into the hard truth: the risks are enormous. Independent lab testing—including UCLA studies—has uncovered widespread counterfeit medications in Mexican border towns, with fake pills containing fentanyl, heroin, or methamphetamine. Shannon also details how cartel influence, untrained pharmacy staff, and poor storage conditions can turn a simple purchase into a health‑threatening gamble. Shannon provides a clear, step‑by‑step breakdown of U.S. Customs rules for legally importing medication: valid U.S. prescription, personal‑use quantities, original packaging, full declaration, and extreme caution with controlled substances. These are the rules that many US citizens don't know - at their own peril. She also discusses what is allowed under Mexican drug-dispensing protocols (yes, they have rules too) and what Americans need to know about legally getting their prescription drugs while in Mexico. Finally, Shannon shares her own policy—what she has purchased abroad, why she carries emergency antibiotics, and why she wouldn't yet rely on all foreign pharmacies for life‑critical medications. This episode is a grounded, honest, and highly practical guide for travelers navigating one of the most sensitive intersections of health, health-care costs, legality and international travel. DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail Traveling with knee or hip replacements doesn’t have to mean slowing down your curiosity or giving up the destinations you’ve dreamed of. In this episode of A Lady Well‑Travelled , Shannon shares a deeply practical and encouraging guide for navigating the world with new joints—or those that are arthritic and painful. Drawing from real experiences across Machu Picchu, the Galápagos, Zimbabwe, Sintra, Portugal and more, she breaks down the tools, habits, and mindset shifts that make mobility‑challenged travel not only possible, but genuinely joyful. From the life‑changing stability of walking sticks to the underrated power of rest, ice, pacing, and soft knee braces, listeners learn how small adjustments can unlock big adventures. Beyond the tips, this episode is about reclaiming confidence and agency as a traveler. Shannon explores how to rest and ask for breaks without guilt, how to adapt group travel to your needs, and how to build itineraries that honor your body while still feeding your sense of wonder. This conversation offers reassurance, realism, and a reminder that mobility challenges don’t diminish your identity as an explorer. DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail Join us for a captivating journey through Fredericksburg, Virginia, exploring its historic significance and vibrant local attractions. This episode offers insider travel tips and recommendations on where to eat, shop, and relax, ideal for travelers eager to experience cultural appreciation and regional specialties. Fredericksburg is a hidden gem right off of Interstate 95 between Richmond, VA and Washington, D.C. that shouldn't be missed. Don't just stop for gas and a tinkle, go on into town and be enchanted by the variety of restaurants, bars and specialty shops, plus special community events that happen all year long! DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail Join as we explore empowering women's travel in Southeast Asia, focusing on cultural appreciation, healing journeys, and travel tips. Discover how to make your trip meaningful, safe, and transformative. This episode, featuring guest Paula Barnes, highlights Southeast Asia, the best destinations for healing and renewal. Learn how travel experiences can empower and transform you as a woman and practical travel advice for a fulfilling journey, whether traveling solo, in a group or with a few friends. If you've ever considered Expat Living, Paula also shares her 20+ years of experience and helpful tips on what factors to consider before moving abroad. DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail Has international reaction to visiting the United States during the FIFA World Cup taken you by surprise? Yeah, me neither! Explore American culture, cuisine, and hospitality with Shannon Bednarova, from the perspective of international visitors, especially during the World Cup. Learn why being good ambassadors at home and abroad matters and discover travel tips to appreciate America’s diversity, vastness and warm hospitality. Delve into international guest perceptions and firsthand experiences of American culture and hospitality during the World Cup, which have not aligned with the media narratives nor foreign governmental views regarding the US. Understand what most Americans have known all along! DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail If you enjoy fine wines and gourmet cuisine while cruising, you'll want to listen to this episode of A Lady Well-Travelled! Join Shannon Bednarova as she explores the culinary delights of Norwegian Encore in this detailed review, highlighting the private dining experience in The Haven and three specialty restaurants, Onda by Scarpetta (Italian), Le Bistro (French), and Cagney's Steakhouse. Perfect for cruise travel enthusiasts and foodies seeking tips and recommendations as to where to eat onboard, reviews of presentation, must-order menu items, and dining atmosphere. Get insights on food quality, presentation, wine options and service that every traveler will appreciate. DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail Do you travel often for business and make use of airport business lounges? Then you won't want to miss this podcast! In this episode, Host and Creator, Shannon Bednarova discusses the decline of airport business lounges due to overcrowding by non-business travelers and families using credit card access. She explains how this affects the business lounge atmosphere, food, and workspace quality. She also discusses the lack of a dress code and professional attire, the lack of parental control over children in the lounge and how those who complain about it are ignored by the airlines. Shannon also conducted interviews of airline lounge staff and asked for honest answers as to why airlines tolerate this downward spiral in quality and service - and it is all related to financial incentives. The airline staff also told Shannon that they do not forsee any changes to the status quo, as the airlines are making too much money off of credit card fees. A must-listen for frequent business travelers. DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail Grab a pint of Smithwick's and settle in for a lively discussion and some fine fiddle playing to boot! Yes, we're talking all things Ireland in this episode of A Lady Well-Travelled! Join Shannon Bednarova as she interviews Tara Connaghan, a renowned Irish fiddle player, award-winning podcaster, educator, and tour guide, about Irish music etiquette, travel tips, and cultural insights. Discover how she teaches other Irish musicians to navigate Irish music sessions with confidence and poise and how she built a successful podcast out of doing so. Tara will also share two beautiful songs, The Maggie Picky and the Baitu Maithiu, playing on her fiddle, which she feels are highly evocative of the Donegal region and the Irish fiddle music tradition. The Maggie Picky is a dance from the 1700s and the Baitu Maithiu is a mournful song of a mother's heartbreak for her son. Explore hidden gems in the north of the Republic of Ireland and Donegal and learn about the Wild Atlantic Way with Tara. See why the area she calls home is truly an undiscovered treasure among tourists, who are typically steered toward the south of Ireland by tour companies. Learn her travel hacks to get the most out of your visit to Ireland and uncover the rich traditions that make Ireland a unique travel destination. Here is a link to Tara playing the Maithiu on You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hF7-NzBfCE&authuser=0 Contact Tara at: www.sessionetiquette.com DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com

Send us Fan Mail Do you love traveling to exotic locations to dive or snorkel? Are you concerned about the health of our oceans and our coral reefs? Learn how you can get involved and make a difference in saving these precious ecosystems for future generations! Join host and creator, Shannon Bednarova, as she explores the fascinating world of diving, coral conservation, and marine biology with dive master and marine conservationist, Denny Frazier. Discover his adventures, insights into coral health, and how everyone can contribute to ocean preservation. Understand the Impact that human development, climate change and the offloading of ship ballast has on coral reefs Learn the difference between coral bleaching and SCTLD - Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease, aka" Skittle D' Learn what you can do to assist with Marine conservation and how to get involved Discover what research is being done to mitigate coral decimation worldwide Explore which oral restoration techniques are the most effective and new developments in transplantation Helpful links: Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) - Coral Disease & Health Consortium Home - Reef Renewal USA Home - Coral Restoration Foundation Coral Reef Alliance - Saving the World’s Coral Reefs The Nature Conservancy: A World Where People & Nature Thrive SEE THE SEA | Protect Marine Ecosystems—Get Involved (Denny Frazier) Carolina Dive Locker Instagram: see-the-sea26 (for Denny Frazier's organization) DISCLAIMER: All opinions, recommendations and experiences shared on this podcast are solely those of the creator and/or her guests. Please do your own research and consult the appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on content shared on this show. Thank you for listening! I welcome your feedback and suggestions or you simply let me know if you are enjoying the show. You can reach me at Shannon@ALadyWellTravelled.com