It is hard to have a clear perspective of the world if you only hear negative stories perpetuated by the mainstream media. Travel does have some dangers, but at the core of it, there is a kindness that coats every corner of the world. In almost every city, we have found kindhearted people that have either opened their hearts or their homes. Many offered a meal, shared a story, helped us in a time of need, and shared a part of their culture with us. In this episode of Passport Joy Travel Talk, we … [Read more...] about Podcast 64: Kindness from Strangers (Amazing Humans during our Travels)
South Africa Guys’ Trip [Ultimate Adventure Travel]
Exploring South Africa for three months (my second visit to the country) left me with one reoccurring thought - this would be an excellent adventure travel destination for a group of male friends. 40th/50th birthday celebration or twenty-somethings on an exotic bachelor party retreat. I would reiterate these thoughts with other male travelers that I met during my stay, and they all agree. Guys’ Trip Heaven! With such a wide variety of things to do, South Africa is an ultimate getaway for guys … [Read more...] about South Africa Guys’ Trip [Ultimate Adventure Travel]
Podcast 63: A Few Lessons Learned (from Long Term Travel)
Being able to see the world as we did for 27 months gave us much to ponder as we returned home. In this episode of Passport Joy Travel Talk, we reflect on a few lessons learned from traveling, including our new ‘real world,’ patience, our fresh perspective, and building a global travel network. As we transition back to our normal life in Indianapolis, our views will likely adjust over time, but we wanted to share what we are thinking within the first few weeks. Main Topics Covered: A Few … [Read more...] about Podcast 63: A Few Lessons Learned (from Long Term Travel)
Podcast 62: Live Q&A After 800 Day Journey (Part 2)
In Part 2 of the Q&A with Matt’s longtime friend, Mike Polder, in Youngstown, Ohio, we talk about what we would do first if we started the journey over, cannabis laws around the world, a time when we partied too hard, could we do this trip without smartphones, and several other creative questions. Enjoy this special edition of Passport Joy Travel Talk while we enjoy a few drinks while catching up with friends after seeing 35 countries in the past two years. Main Topics Covered: Live … [Read more...] about Podcast 62: Live Q&A After 800 Day Journey (Part 2)
Milwaukee, Wisconsin (USA) – World Barber Shop Adventures
I absolutely loved the design of Gee’s Clippers barber shop. An old bank converted into a sports theme shop focusing on Milwaukee Bucks basketball, it was like nothing I had experienced. Hardwood floors and basketball goals, a huge break room for the barbers, and an arcade room. Are you kidding me? The Milwaukee tools work stations are very sharp, tons of memorabilia hanging on the walls, and the flat screens throughout make it easy to keep up on the latest sports updates. The open layout … [Read more...] about Milwaukee, Wisconsin (USA) – World Barber Shop Adventures
Podcast 61: Live Q&A After 800 Day Journey (Part 1)
After traveling the world for 27 months, we are back in the United States visiting friends and family. As we make the rounds to a few cities in the midwest, we stopped by Youngstown, Ohio, where Matt spent part of his youth and still has many longtime friendships. His buddy, Mike Polder, does an outstanding job interviewing with some very different questions. In this episode broadcasted from Sam’s Wedge Inn, find out the most critical item in the backpack, the overall attitude towards … [Read more...] about Podcast 61: Live Q&A After 800 Day Journey (Part 1)
Podcast 60: New Zealand Part 2 (South Island)
We heard about the natural beauty of the South Island of New Zealand from travelers around the world. They told us many times about the mountains, hills, lakes, and countless sheep. We began our trip in Christchurch, where we started our adventures around the South Island. We stayed in Lake Tekapo, Lake Wanaka, Queenstown, Ranfurly, and Dunedin. With our rental car fueled up, we took our time discovering the ins and outs of this wonderful country. We stopped many times to take photos along the … [Read more...] about Podcast 60: New Zealand Part 2 (South Island)
Queenstown, New Zealand – World Barber Shop Adventures
Queenstown, New Zealand is a small town that is packed with endless natural beauty. Surrounded by mountains, lakes, and plenty of greenery, the city is an adventure seekers dream. Not only is there plenty to do when it comes to taking in nature, but the cafes, bars, and restaurants also do not disappoint. There is a wide variety of boutique shops that make travelers want to blow their budgets on high-end goods. In this area of fantastic shopping, you will find one of the top barber shops in New … [Read more...] about Queenstown, New Zealand – World Barber Shop Adventures