The Travel Brats copertina

The Travel Brats

The Travel Brats

Di: Sofia Blanno Natalie Brouwer
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Your one-stop media destination for inspiration to create a travel-filled life you don't need a vacation from. The Travel Brats are building a community around a love for travel, uncovering hidden gems with locals, and empowering exploration from your home city to around the globe.2020 Who Wear There Podcast Economia Gestione e leadership Leadership Scienze sociali Scrittura e commenti di viaggio
Episodi
  • How to Plan a Vacation Step-by-Step (Budgeting, Booking & Travel Tips)

    How to Plan a Vacation Step-by-Step (Budgeting, Booking & Travel Tips)
    Jun 2 2026
    Planning a vacation should be exciting—not overwhelming. But between choosing a destination, booking flights, creating an itinerary, and figuring out logistics, it's easy to feel stressed before your trip even begins. At The Travel Brats, we've planned everything from last-minute city getaways to international adventures booked nearly a year in advance. Over time, we've learned that the best trips happen when you focus on smart planning without overplanning every minute. Here's our step-by-step guide to planning a vacation the right way. 1. Start With Your "Why" Before choosing a destination, ask yourself: Do I want relaxation or adventure?Am I traveling for food, culture, nature, or nightlife?Am I recharging or packing my schedule? Your answer determines everything from budget to destination to daily activities. Helpful questions to research: Is this destination better for couples, friends, or families?Is it good for digital nomads?Can I visit without renting a car?Does it offer more adventure or relaxation? The clearer your travel goals, the easier every other decision becomes. 2. Set Your Dates and Budget You don't need an exact budget, but you need a realistic one. Consider: Number of travel daysFlight costsHotel or Airbnb costsFood and drinksTransportationActivities and excursions Most importantly, leave room for unexpected expenses. A good vacation budget includes a buffer because travel rarely goes exactly as planned. Also factor in important deadlines such as: PTO approvalSchool breaksWeddingsSpecial events 3. Choose Your Destination Strategically Timing can completely change your experience. Ask yourself: What's in season during my travel dates?Will weather affect the trip?Is it peak tourist season?How long is the travel time?Is the destination easy to navigate? If you only have a few vacation days, shorter flights often win. We've seen travelers hate destinations during crowded peak seasons and fall in love with the same places during shoulder season. Research matters. 4. Book the Big Stuff First Follow this order: ✈️ Flights 🏨 Accommodations 🚗 Transportation 🎟️ Activities Booking major items first reduces stress and gives you more flexibility. When to Book Domestic U.S. Travel 1–3 months ahead International Travel 2–6 months ahead Peak Seasons As early as possible For our New Zealand trip during summer, flights were booked nearly nine months in advance and activities months before departure. Meanwhile, a spontaneous New York trip booked one week ahead worked perfectly because it wasn't a particularly busy travel period. The key is understanding seasonality. The Travel Brats Booking Strategy Book early with free cancellation whenever possible. Great tools include: Booking.comHotels.comGoogle HotelsAirbnb Then keep an eye on prices. If rates drop, cancel and rebook. Also remember: Location is often more important than price. A slightly more expensive hotel in a walkable neighborhood can save hundreds on transportation. And don't wait forever hoping prices will drop—they often don't. 5. Create a Flexible Itinerary One of the biggest travel mistakes is over-scheduling. Instead of planning every hour, plan by theme. Examples: Food dayBeach dayOld town explorationMuseum dayNature day A great trip includes structure and flexibility. Helpful Planning Searches Must-see spots in [destination]Hidden gems in [destination]Overrated vs underrated attractionsBest neighborhoods to stay inWhat should I book in advance? Plan one or two anchor activities each day and leave room for spontaneity. Some of the best travel moments happen when you wander. 6. Group Activities by Location Don't zig-zag across a city. Group activities by neighborhood to save time and energy. Use Google Maps to: Save attractionsOrganize locationsBuild efficient routes This simple step makes sightseeing significantly easier and reduces unnecessary transportation costs. 7. Schedule Rest Like an Activity Travel burnout is real. Many travelers try to do too much, especially on shorter trips. Build in: Slow morningsDowntime after travel daysBreaks between activities Avoid scheduling early tours after late nights whenever possible. You don't need to see everything to have an amazing trip. 8. Handle the Logistics Before You Leave This is the boring stuff—but it's important. Passport Many countries require your passport to remain valid for at least six months after your trip. Check before booking. Visas Visa requirements depend on your passport, not where you live. Use trusted resources like: Embassy websitesIATA Travel CentreSherpaVisaHQiVisa You may need: No visaeVisaVisa on arrivalEmbassy visa Always verify requirements before departure. Vaccines Depending on your destination, you may need: Yellow FeverHepatitis AHepatitis BOther travel-related vaccines Some countries require proof through an International Certificate of Vaccination (ICVP), often called the yellow card. Travel Insurance Travel...
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    49 min
  • Travel with Purpose: Volunteer Travel & Impactful Adventures with Kimberly Haley-Coleman

    Travel with Purpose: Volunteer Travel & Impactful Adventures with Kimberly Haley-Coleman
    May 19 2026
    Serving the World: Travel, Impact & Adventure with Kimberly Haley-Coleman What if your next vacation could change not only your perspective—but someone else’s life, too? In this episode of The Travel Brats Podcast, we sit down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, the founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware, to explore what it really means to travel with purpose. With more than 25 years of experience leading short-term volunteer adventures in over 25 countries, Founder of Globe Aware, Kimberly Haley Coleman, has helped thousands of travelers turn meaningful impact into a core part of their journey. Her work has been featured on major platforms like CNN, The Today Show, and The New York Times—and for good reason. This conversation goes beyond travel tips. It’s about shifting your mindset from simply seeing the world to truly connecting with it. How It All Started: The Traveler Behind the Mission Kimberly’s love for travel didn’t start with a perfectly curated itinerary—it started with curiosity and connection. Inspired early on by a sense of global wonder, she began traveling internationally and quickly realized that the most meaningful experiences weren’t found in tourist attractions—but in human connection. That realization became the foundation for her nonprofit, Globe Aware. What began as a vision to connect travelers with communities around the world has grown into a globally recognized nonprofit offering structured, ethical, and sustainable service programs. And while Kimberly has traveled across Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Africa, it’s not just the destinations that stand out—it’s the people, the resilience, and the shared humanity she’s encountered along the way. Redefining “Volunteer Travel” Let’s address the elephant in the room: Is volunteer travel just “poverty tourism”? Kimberly doesn’t shy away from this conversation. She explains that ethical, impactful travel is about partnership—not saviorism. It’s about working with communities, not for them. The goal isn’t to “fix” anything—it’s to support locally driven initiatives in a meaningful and sustainable way. What Ethical Travel Looks Like: Programs led by or in partnership with local communitiesProjects that address real, ongoing needs—not short-term opticsCultural exchange that goes both ways Green Flags to Look For: Transparency about where your time and money goLong-term relationships within the communityA balance between service and cultural immersion Red Flags: Programs that center the volunteer over the communityLack of clear impact or follow-through“Feel-good” experiences with no sustainable outcome What a Globe Aware Trip Actually Feels Like So what does a week of service travel really look like? Imagine landing in a destination like Peru. You’re welcomed into a community, introduced to your project, and quickly become part of something bigger than yourself. Over the course of the week, you might: Help build infrastructure, like schools or housingSupport environmental or conservation effortsWork alongside locals on community-driven initiatives And no, you don’t need special skills or to speak the language. What you do need is an open mind. Travelers often leave these trips surprised—not just by what they’ve seen, but by what they’ve learned about themselves. There’s growth, perspective, and yes… sometimes even tears. Because when you step outside your comfort zone, you start to see the world—and your place in it—differently. Balancing Impact & Adventure One of the most unique aspects of Globe Aware trips is the balance. You’re not volunteering 24/7. Typically, about 30 hours of your week are dedicated to service, leaving plenty of time to explore, experience local culture, and enjoy the destination. It’s not about sacrificing travel—it’s about enhancing it. The Personal Growth Side of Travel Kimberly’s journey isn’t just about building a nonprofit—it’s about what travel taught her along the way. Leaving a high-level corporate career to pursue Globe Aware came with challenges, but also clarity. Through her work, she’s learned: Resilience from communities facing adversityThe power of connection across culturesThat leadership looks different around the world And after more than two decades, what still moves her most? The people. Who Is This Type of Travel For? Short answer: almost everyone. Globe Aware trips are designed for: Solo travelers looking for a deeper connectionFamilies wanting meaningful shared experiencesStudents seeking perspective before entering the workforceCorporate teams building a purpose-driven culture There are minimal age restrictions, and no prior experience is required. Practical Tips Before You Go If you’re considering a service trip, here’s what Kimberly recommends: Mentally prepare: Go in with humility, not expectations. Stay open: You’re there to learn just as much as you are to help. Don’t stress about ...
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    55 min
  • Get Lost, Eat Well, Travel Deeper: City Explorations Around the World

    Get Lost, Eat Well, Travel Deeper: City Explorations Around the World
    Apr 21 2026
    Tokyo vs. Paris: Two Completely Different Kinds of Magic Would you rather wander the electric streets of Tokyo or get cozy inside a vintage bookstore in Paris? Tokyo is a sensory overload in the best way possible. It’s the kind of place where you don’t need a plan—just walking around becomes the experience. You’ll find vending machines selling everything from hot meals to mystery items, themed cafés (yes, even hedgehogs), and tiny restaurants that have perfected one dish over decades. Neighborhoods like Akihabara and Shibuya feel like stepping into the future, while places like Shimokitazawa bring a more indie, artsy vibe. Paris, on the other hand, is timeless. It’s strolling past the Eiffel Tower at sunset, wandering through the Louvre, or sitting at a café for hours just people-watching. Neighborhoods like Le Marais and the Latin Quarter offer a mix of history, culture, and that effortlessly chic Parisian energy. Travel tip: In cities like these, don’t over-plan. Leave room for curiosity—it’s where the best moments happen. NYC vs. Italy: A Food Lover’s Dream Would you rather eat your way through New York City or explore the regional flavors of Italy? New York is a global food capital. You can try world-class Korean BBQ, authentic Italian pasta, or fresh seafood—all within a few blocks. It’s fast-paced, diverse, and constantly evolving. Italy, though, is an experience in itself. Every region has its own identity—from Neapolitan pizza in Naples to rich ragù in Bologna. Meals aren’t rushed; they’re meant to be savored. Think multiple courses, local wine, and recipes passed down for generations. Travel tip: In Italy, always order like a local: antipasti, primi, secondi, and dolci. It’s not just a meal—it’s a ritual. And always order regional dishes—no pizza in Venice! Rome vs. Bangkok: The Ride Matters Would you rather cruise through Rome on a Vespa or zip through Bangkok in a tuk-tuk? Rome on a Vespa is pure cinematic energy. You’re weaving past ancient ruins, stopping for espresso in Trastevere, and catching sunset views from hidden hills. It’s chaotic, yes—but it’s also unforgettable. Bangkok’s tuk-tuks are a whole different kind of thrill. They’re fast, a little wild, and the perfect way to bounce between temples, markets, and street food spots. It’s less about the destination and more about the ride. Travel tip: In Bangkok, always agree on a price before getting in a tuk-tuk. Trust us on this one. Rio Carnival vs. Times Square NYE: Expectation vs. Reality Would you rather celebrate Carnival in Rio de Janeiro or New Year’s Eve in Times Square? Rio Carnival is vibrant, energetic, and completely immersive. Think music, dancing, elaborate costumes, and nonstop celebration. It’s one of the most joyful festivals in the world. Times Square on New Year’s Eve… is iconic, but also intense. Massive crowds, long waits, freezing temperatures, and very little personal space. It’s one of those “once in a lifetime” experiences—but not necessarily for the right reasons. Travel tip: Sometimes the most famous experiences aren’t the most enjoyable. Do your research and decide what kind of vibe you actually want. Lisbon vs. Barcelona: Hidden Gems or Rooftop Views? Would you rather uncover hidden corners in Lisbon or sip cocktails at rooftop bars in Barcelona? Lisbon is all about discovery. Quiet gardens, tucked-away bookstores, and local neighborhoods full of charm. It rewards slow travel and curiosity. Barcelona brings the energy—especially from above. Rooftop bars offer stunning views of the city, from the Sagrada Familia to the Mediterranean. It’s lively, social, and perfect for soaking in the atmosphere. Travel tip: Balance both styles. Plan one to two “highlight” activities per day, and leave the rest open for exploring. Final Thoughts: The Best Travel Happens in Between No matter which destinations you choose, the real magic of travel isn’t just in the landmarks—it’s in the moments you don’t plan. It’s the café you stumble into. The street you didn’t mean to turn down. The conversation with a local that changes your perspective. So next time you’re exploring a city, give yourself permission to wander. Because getting a little lost? That’s where the best stories begin. And if you’re ready to take these ideas even further, this episode is packed with travel tips, cultural insights, and destination inspiration to help you explore beyond the tourist traps and plan a more meaningful trip—definitely one to listen to before your next adventure. See you next Travel Brat Tuesday. Until then, travel deeper, slow down, and don’t be afraid to go beyond the obvious. Listen to the Episode Ready to explore Europe beyond the tourist traps? This episode is packed with travel tips, cultural insights, and destination inspiration to help you plan a more meaningful trip. Read the full blog post here: https://...
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    47 min
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