Welcome back to Going Places, everyone! This season on the show, we learned about Bedouin hospitality, heard from Ammani artists on Gaza, traveled to Italy in search of the world’s rarest silk, and more.I hope you enjoyed the new show format - and if you did, please take a moment to leave us a rating or a review on Apple podcasts or Spotify. I appreciate it! This episode and the entire season of the show are brought to you by Visit Jordan. Be sure to visit myjordanjourney.com to learn more about Jordan. I loved partnering with this organization because, as you know, I love the country of Jordan so much, and I loved the opportunity to talk about it at length. Today is our last episode and we’re going on a short hiatus, but before we do, I want to leave you with final thoughts on whether or not travel can change the world. This episode will talk about and reflect upon my latest trip to Jordan in February 2024.Get more information at: Going Places website Join our Going Places newsletter to get updates on new episodes and Yulia's travel storytelling work. Subscribe at goingplacesmedia.com!For more BTS of this podcast follow @goingplacesmedia on Instagram and check out our videos on YouTube!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @goingplacesmedia!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Going Places or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Going Places with Yulia Denisyuk is a show that sparks a better understanding of people and places near and far by fostering a space for real conversations to occur. Each week, we sit down with travelers, journalists, creators, and people living and working in destinations around the world. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer who's worked with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about our show at goingplacesmedia.com.Our theme music this season, Abbad El Shams, is provided by Rawan Roshni, a Palestinian/Balkan singer based in Jordan.

Welcome back to Going Places! Today, we have a conversation with Amelia Bilbeisi, co-founder of Maida Olive Oil, known as Onsuri Olive Oil in North America. Amelia produces one of the world's most premium olive oils on a farm deep inside a Jordanian desert. Tasting this olive oil, designated ultra premium quality, a coveted grade only 5 percent of the world's olive oil producers meet, has opened my eyes and my palette to what quality olive oil should taste like. Olive oil is central to Jordanian culture, and today, Amelia and her team are well on their way to elevating its status worldwide. To get the taste of this incredible oil, head to onsurioliveoil.com. And be sure to use code GOINGPLACES, all caps, to get 10 percent off your purchase. Onsuri ships free to North America. This episode and the entire season is brought to you by Visit Jordan. Be sure to visit myjordanjourney.com to learn more about Jordan.Get more information on the episode page.What you’ll learn in this episode:Significance of olive oil in Jordanian cultureHow ONSURI became a top olive oil producerHow to tell if the extra virgin olive oil is of high qualityChallenges affecting olive oil production (e.g., climate change)Traditional vs. modern approaches in agricultureThe role of women in olive oil productionWhere olive trees come fromCultural significance of olive oil in the Middle EastSustainability practices on Amelia's farmONSURI's environmental sustainability efforts (it's carbon-negative)Amelia's journey to becoming an olive oil sommelierBenefits and versatility of extra virgin olive oil in cooking and bakingVarieties of olive oil offered by Onsuri and their recommended usesTours and visits to Onsuri Farm for travelers What it's like for Amelia to be a part of her father's dream Featured on the show:To get a taste of this incredible oil, head to onsurioliveoil.com and use code GOINGPLACES to get 10% off your purchase. Onsuri ships free to North America!Get more information at: Join our Going Places newsletter to get updates on new episodes and Yulia's travel storytelling work. Subscribe at goingplacesmedia.com!For more BTS of this podcast follow @goingplacesmedia on Instagram and check out our videos on YouTube!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @goingplacesmedia!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Going Places or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Going Places with Yulia Denisyuk is a show that sparks a better understanding of people and places near and far by fostering a space for real conversations to occur. Each week, we sit down with travelers, journalists, creators, and people living and working in destinations around the world. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel

Join us in this episode in conversation with Chicago-based travel journalist and photographer Karthika Gupta. Her work has been featured in Vogue, BBC Travel, USA Today, Condé Nast Traveler, Fodors, AFAR, Travel & Leisure, Robb Report, and more. Karthika is also the founder of Culturally Ours, a platform dedicated to promoting cultural understanding and celebrating global diversity.In this episode, Karthika and I cover great distances. We travel to the flower markets of Mumbai,  the deserts of Jordan, and the sustainable farm run by one of the smallest tribal nations in California. Karthika shares with us the backstory to her latest work for Vogue magazine,  the motivation that enables her to keep pitching her beautiful stories and get published in places like Vogue, AFAR, and others, and how knowing people from places we visit can exponentially increase our understanding of the world.We also discuss the misconceptions about traveling to the Middle East and why traveling with her two children is Karthika's favorite way of learning something new about herself and others. Discover the motivation behind her compelling stories and her insights on how connecting with locals can deepen our understanding of the world.This episode and the entire season of the show is brought to you by Visit Jordan.  Be sure to visit myjordanjourney.com to learn more about this beautiful place.Featured on the show:Read Karthika's Vogue Story, How One of the Smallest Tribal Nations in the U.S. Is Redefining Sustainable Living Follow Karthika on Instagram: @karthikaguptaKarthika's website: karthikagupta.comListen to Episode 07: You're Good Enough To Do This Work with Karthika Gupta Get more information at: Learn more about our show at goingplacesmedia.com. Join our Going Places newsletter to get updates on new episodes and Yulia's travel storytelling work. Subscribe at goingplacesmedia.com!For more BTS of this podcast follow @goingplacesmedia on Instagram and check out our videos on YouTube!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @goingplacesmedia!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Going Places or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Going Places with Yulia Denisyuk is a show that sparks a better understanding of people and places near and far by fostering a space for real conversations to occur. Each week, we sit down with travelers, journalists, creators, and people living and working in destinations around the world. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer who's worked with National Geographic, The New York Times,...

Welcome back to Going Places! Today, I'm thrilled to reconnect with Nikki Vargas, a senior editor at Fodor's Travel and the founder of Unearthed Women joins me to discuss her latest book, "Call You When I Land." In this travel memoir, Nikki shares her profound experiences navigating cultures, finding love, and discovering herself along the way. Throughout our conversation, Nikki sheds light on the transformative power of travel and its ability to shape our journeys and our careers. We discuss the role travelers play in supporting the communities they visit, echoing Nikki's commitment to championing women's voices worldwide. From her experiences founding Unearthed Women to her latest book project, Nikki's wisdom and passion for exploration shines through, offering listeners a fresh perspective on the intersection of travel, self-discovery, and advocacy."Call You When I Land" is out now and promises readers a captivating exploration of wanderlust, resilience, and pursuing one's dreams. Whether you're an avid traveler or simply curious about the world, Nikki's story will surely resonate. This episode and the entire season is brought to you by Visit Jordan. Be sure to visit myjordanjourney.com to learn more about Jordan.What you’ll learn in this episode:Introduction and overview of Nikki's new book, "Call You When I Land."Excerpt reading and discussion of pivotal moments from the bookComparison of the writing process between Nikki's first book, "Wanderess," and her memoir, "Call You When I Land."Challenges and rewards of book writing compared to articlesOvercoming self-doubt and fears in the writing processPractical strategies for tackling a writing projectThe influence of Nikki's career as a travel journalist and editor on her book writingThe power of memoirs and travel narratives in inspiring transformationRecognizing the privilege of travel and finding accessible ways to exploreSupporting women in travel and amplifying their voices through conscious consumerismHighlighting stories of everyday women making a difference in their communities, like Manal Kahi's Eat Offbeat.Importance of authenticity in social media, particularly TikTokBalancing personal life milestones with professional endeavorsNikki's upcoming book project inspired by a trip to NorwayInvitation to join Nikki on her book tour and connect in personFeatured on the show:Order Nikki's travel memoir, CALL YOU WHEN I LANDNikki’s book Instagram: @callyouwhenilandNikki Vargas website: nikkivargas.comNikki’s Instagram: @niknakvargasNikki’s Twitter: @MsNikkiVargasCatch up with Nikki on her book tour. Follow Nikki on Tiktok: @authornikkivargasEat OffBeat: eatoffbeat.com

Today, we'll learn about the story of the world's rarest silk with writer, editor, and now book author Eliot Stein. Eliot and I first got to know each other through our shared passion for the types of stories that reveal something about a place through the lens of tradition and unique cultural practices.Eliot has edited a few of my stories at BBC Travel, where he currently serves as the deputy editor,  and where he started a column called Custom Made that highlights cultural custodians preserving vanishing customs. Eliot has recently completed a book inspired by this column that will be published this fall.This conversation has given me a sense of joy and lightness that I haven't felt in a while. You're going to hear about our shared passion for telling stories about people preserving cultural traditions, like the last remaining sea silk seamstress in Sardinia and Japan's craft soy sauce brewer who still makes shoyu in a traditional way. We also discuss what the book writing process was like for Eliot and hear more about his upcoming book. If you want to learn more about Eliot and receive updates on his upcoming book, follow him on Instagram @Eliot.Stein.This episode and the entire season is brought to you by Visit Jordan. Be sure to visit myjordanjourney.com to learn more about Jordan.What you’ll learn in this episode:Discussion about the story "The Last Surviving Sea Silk Seamstress" for BBC TravelImportance of highlighting the person, tradition, and craft rather than the writerInsight into the process of building relationships and trust with subjects for storytellingImportance of traditions in shaping places and peopleRecognition of the depth beyond tourist attractionsDiscussion on changing reading habits and the impact on storytellingMultifaceted approaches to storytelling in the digital ageEliot's upcoming book "Custodians of Wonder"Eliot's background in travel journalism and its influence on the bookThe labor of love and intense commitment required to write a bookAdvice for aspiring authors: prioritize passion over monetary or personal gainsResources and opportunities for aspiring authors, such as the Writer's Digest conferenceStory behind a photo featuring traditional soy sauce production in JapanImportance of clear pitching guidelines for democratizing travel journalismHope in the power of travel journalism to foster empathy and understanding across culturesFeatured on the show:Follow Eliot on Instagram: @eliot.steinRead Eliot’s article on BBC Travel: The last surviving sea silk seamstressLearn about the Barrel-aged soy sauce, also available online at trf-ny.comPitch your book idea: writersdigestconference.comRead the BBC Travel author briefGet more information at: Learn more about our show at goingplacesmedia.com. Join our Going Places newsletter to get updates on new episodes and Yulia's travel storytelling work. Subscribe at

In this episode of "Going Places," I'm sharing a very special story I wrote for Conde Nast Traveler this summer called In the Land of the World's Oldest Bread, A Return to an Ancient Baking Culture.We'll journey together to the heart of Jordan, where baking is not just about sustenance but a profound cultural legacy. Join me as we explore how bread is intricately woven into the fabric of Jordan's community life, from traditional dishes gracing UNESCO's heritage list to the philosophy of Al Barakah that binds individuals to each other and the land. We'll also look at the challenges local wheat varieties face and the passionate efforts of people looking to revive Jordan's connection to its ancestral crops. So, come along on this journey as we explore a story of history, community, and the enduring spirit of Jordan through its breadmaking.This episode and the entire season is brought to you by Visit Jordan. Be sure to visit myjordanjourney.com to learn more about Jordan.What you’ll learn in this episode:Journey to Jordan to explore its bread-making cultureDescription of arboud’s simple ingredients and baking processJordan’s history as part of the Fertile Crescent and its agricultural significanceDiscovery of the world's oldest known bread in Jordan’s Black DesertImpact of this discovery on understanding human history regarding baking and farmingDescription of Jordan's native baladi wheat and its influence on culinary traditionsVarious traditional Jordanian dishes that incorporate breadThe shift from local baladi wheat farming to imported refined flour in the 1970sEfforts by Al Barakeh Wheat Collective to restore Jordanians' connection to native wheatOther organizations' efforts to revive ancient wheat and traditional recipesThe concept of Al Barakeh and its cultural importance in JordanFeatured on the show:In the Land of the World's Oldest Bread, a Return to an Ancient Baking CultureSummer reading series:Robb Report: Inside Hotelito, A Luxe Hideaway on Mexico's Guerrero CoastAFAR: In Jordan, Skip the Bubble & Go Here InsteadVogue: An Unexpected Cultural Hotspot in the AlpsBBC Travel: Mongolia’s epic celebration at -40CAFAR: The Untold Story of Turkey's Iznik TilesCN Traveler: Seeking Silence In Wadi RumToronto Star: A Lens On The World

In this episode of Going Places, a conversation with three remarkable Ammani creators: Sarah Shabbar, a journalist and editor at Jordan News Daily, an English Language media organization in Jordan; Hussein Alazaat, artist, calligrapher, and founder of Elharf Studio, a platform for arts and culture in Amman; and Rawan Roshni, a Palestinian Balkan singer whose captivating song, "Abbad El Shams," is the theme song for our podcast this season.The conversation you're about to hear today was recorded last October, two weeks after the current escalation of violence in Gaza and the West Bank.  Together, we processed the emotions of collective pain, sorrow, and anger, what these artists feel about the Western perspectives on Israel-Palestine, what’s changing in this situation that generations of people in the Middle East have grown up with, and what is the role of artists in this moment. I want to say thank you to Sarah, Hussein, and Rawan for coming on the show at such a raw and difficult moment to share their thoughts and experiences with us, and I hope you take a listen to what they have to say.  This episode and the entire season is brought to you by Visit Jordan. Be sure to visit myjordanjourney.com to learn more about Jordan.What you’ll learn in this episode:The importance of critical examination of headlines and seeking context in reportingCollective healing and activism in response to the ongoing struggle in PalestineThe interconnectedness of social justice movements globally, from Black Lives Matter to indigenous rightsThe need to address injustice before discussing peace and coexistenceThe power of social media in raising awareness and facilitating changeThe role of civilian journalism in capturing eventsThe hope that the world's attention will translate into meaningful changeThe role of art and creativity in processing emotions and raising awarenessThe evolving creative community in AmmanCollaboration and support in Amman's creative communityCuriosity and exploration as keys to discovering Amman's creative sceneVenues for music and cultural eventsHussein finds hope in the wonder of discovering new tools, projects, and touring his city. Sarah shares that she has seen a positive shift in people's willingness to listen and discuss important topics in Jordan.Rawan mentions that her relationships, faith, and the lessons from nature give her hope.Featured on the show:Journalist Sarah Shabbar: https://www.instagram.com/jordannewsdailyArtist & calligrapher Hussein Alazaat: https://www.elharf.comPalestinian-Balkan musician Rawan Roshni: https://rawanroshni.comAbbad El Shams song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ds7sXkk3YWwGet more information at: Learn more about our show at goingplacesmedia.com. Join our Going Places newsletter to get updates on new episodes and Yulia's travel storytelling work. Subscribe at goingplacesmedia.com!For more BTS of this podcast follow @goingplacesmedia on Instagram and check out our videos on...

In this episode of "Going Places," I'm thrilled to have Janine Jervis as our guest. Janine, who serves as the North American Communications Director for Visit Jordan, brings her extensive experience in the travel and tourism industry, spanning an impressive 17 years. In our conversation, we explore the transformative power of travel, emphasizing the importance of firsthand experiences in challenging stereotypes and broadening one's perspective. Janine shares her initial perceptions of Jordan, highlighting the warmth and hospitality of its people and the authentic connections she's forged with individuals from diverse backgrounds. We also discuss the ongoing tragedy in Gaza and its impact on Jordan's mood and tourism industry. Join us for a captivating conversation that underscores the profound value of travel in fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.Our theme music this season, Abbad El Shams, is provided by Rawan Roshni, a Palestinian/Balkan singer based in Jordan.What you’ll learn in this episode:Janine’s extensive experience in the travel and tourism industryThe transformative power of travel in challenging stereotypes and broadening perspectivesJanine's initial perceptions of Jordan and the warmth and hospitality of its peopleThe ongoing tragedy in Gaza and its impact on Jordan's mood and tourism industryThe role of tourism in supporting local communities and economiesThe inspiring women who are making a positive impact in Jordan and the regionThe warmth and hospitality of Bedouin communities in Wadi RumEncouraging people to approach travel with an open mindGet more information at: Learn more about our show at goingplacesmedia.com. Join our Going Places newsletter to get updates on new episodes and Yulia's travel storytelling work. Subscribe at goingplacesmedia.com!For more BTS of this podcast follow @goingplacesmedia on Instagram and check out our videos on YouTube!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @goingplacesmedia!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Going Places or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Going Places with Yulia Denisyuk is a show that sparks a better understanding of people and places near and far by fostering a space for real conversations to occur. Each week, we sit down with travelers, journalists, creators, and people living and working in destinations around the world. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer who's worked with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about our show at goingplacesmedia.com.Mentioned in this episode:Visit JordanThis episode and the rest of this season are brought to you by Visit Jordan. Jordan is a beautiful country in the Middle East that has something for everyone: in a relatively small area, it packs diverse landscapes like the Mediterranean forests of Ajloun, deep

Welcome back to our show, everyone. It's been nearly three months since we've been on air. In these three months, a lot of things have happened, both in the world and in my own life, which caused me to go through an intense period of a lot of searching and rethinking the purpose of my work, the meaning behind it, and how what I do on the podcast and elsewhere can better address some of the stereotypes and misconceptions that plague the Middle East and other areas of the world that are feeling oppression and injustice. So today on the show, we're going to discuss some of the results of that searching, rethinking, and questioning.Renaming the podcast to "Going Places" to reflect its renewed purposeShifting focus from travel industry insights to storytellingEmphasizing the podcast's mission to explore diverse perspectives and our shared humanityGet more information at: Learn more about our show at goingplacesmedia.com. Join our Going Places newsletter to get updates on new episodes and Yulia's travel storytelling work. Subscribe at goingplacesmedia.com!For more BTS of this podcast follow @goingplacesmedia on Instagram and check out our videos on YouTube!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @goingplacesmedia!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Going Places or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Going Places with Yulia Denisyuk is a show that sparks a better understanding of people and places near and far by fostering a space for real conversations to occur. Each week, we sit down with travelers, journalists, creators, and people living and working in destinations around the world. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer who's worked with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about our show at goingplacesmedia.com.Links discussed in this episode:B'tselemHuman Rights WatchAmnesty

Get full show notes and more information at: https://www.goingplacesmedia.com/ For more BTS of this podcast follow @travelmedialabNeed support and accountability? Join our Facebook group!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @travelmedialab!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Travel Media Lab or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Travel Media Lab with Yulia Denisyuk is a podcast about people and places that make our world a fascinating place to be. Each week, we bring you stories from places near and far and sit down with the world’s most exciting travelers, journalists, creators, and people working in the travel space. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer working with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about Travel Media Lab at travelmedialab.co.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on privilege, travel, and finding a sense of belonging with our guest, Emy Rodriguez, a freelance travel journalist from Arecibo, Puerto Rico. A proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Emy has dedicated himself to using his privilege as a travel writer to showcase and preserve underserved communities and their incomparable voices. His writing has appeared in Condé Nast Traveler, Fodors, and many more magazines. Emy currently lives in Barcelona, Spain, which is how we initially connected. In this episode, Emy shares his experiences as an immigrant in Barcelona, navigating the challenges and joys of living in a new country. He discusses the importance of dialogue, listening, and giving back while also expressing his delight in discovering a vibrant community and a sense of hope in his journey. This episode will inspire you to reflect on your own privilege, explore new perspectives, and embrace the power of community. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Emy's journey and discover the beauty of finding home wherever you are.Get full show notes and more information at: https://travelmedialab.co/podcast/101 Want to know how to publish your travel stories? Download my free guide in which I share with you the 10 steps to take now to get your work out into the world.For more BTS of this podcast follow @travelmedialabNeed support and accountability? Join our Facebook group!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @travelmedialab!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Travel Media Lab or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Travel Media Lab with Yulia Denisyuk is a podcast about people and places that make our world a fascinating place to be. Each week, we bring you stories from places near and far and sit down with the world’s most exciting travelers, journalists, creators, and people working in the travel space. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer working with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about Travel Media Lab at travelmedialab.co.Mentioned in this episode:Visit JordanThis episode and the rest of this season are brought to you by Visit Jordan. Jordan is a beautiful country in the Middle East that has something for everyone: in a relatively small area, it packs diverse landscapes like the Mediterranean forests of Ajloun, deep canyons in Wadi Dana, the Mars-like desert of Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. Let Jordan be your host for your Middle Eastern adventures. Go to Visit Jordan to learn more.Visit Jordan

Welcome to a special milestone episode of the Travel Media Lab podcast, where we celebrate our 100th journey together! Today, we embark on a captivating adventure to the heart of Wadi Rum Desert in Southern Jordan with Ahmad Mara'yeh, a Bedouin and co-founder of Rum Planet Camp.Wadi Rum isn't just a picturesque landscape; it's a realm where nature's grandeur converges with the warmth and authenticity of its people. Ahmad shares why understanding the local culture and connecting with its inhabitants is as vital as experiencing its breathtaking vistas.We also touch on the impact of tourism on Wadi Rum and how Ahmad has incorporated sustainable practices into his family’s camp. You’ll also hear about his experience meeting Matt Damon in this remarkable setting!As we celebrate our 100th episode, we invite you to participate in our special week-long celebration. Share your review of our podcast on Apple Podcasts or leave a rating on Spotify, and you could win a 20-minute coffee conversation with me. Let's connect over video and discuss your interests, whether it's travel, storytelling, or anything else that sparks your curiosity. Remember to submit your review by Wednesday, October 11th, and stay tuned for the winner announcement on Thursday, October 12th.Get full show notes and more information at: https://travelmedialab.co/podcast/100 Want to know how to publish your travel stories? Download my free guide in which I share with you the 10 steps to take now to get your work out into the world.For more BTS of this podcast follow @travelmedialabNeed support and accountability? Join our Facebook group!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @travelmedialab!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Travel Media Lab or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Travel Media Lab with Yulia Denisyuk is a podcast about people and places that make our world a fascinating place to be. Each week, we bring you stories from places near and far and sit down with the world’s most exciting travelers, journalists, creators, and people working in the travel space. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer working with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about Travel Media Lab at travelmedialab.co.Mentioned in this episode:Visit JordanThis episode and the rest of this season are brought to you by Visit Jordan. Jordan is a beautiful country in the Middle East that has something for everyone: in a relatively small area, it packs diverse landscapes like the Mediterranean forests of Ajloun, deep canyons in Wadi Dana, the Mars-like desert of Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. Let Jordan be your host for your Middle Eastern adventures. Go to Visit Jordan to learn more.Visit Jordan

In this episode of Travel Media Lab, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Esme Benjamin, an award-winning writer, editor, and podcaster based in the vibrant city of New York. Esme's work spans the realms of travel and well-being, gracing the pages of renowned publications like Elle Magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, and many others. She wears multiple hats as the current editor-in-chief of Full Time Travel and the host of the captivating podcast "The Trip That Changed Me."Our conversation explores Esme's incredible journey through the world of travel journalism. It's one filled with determination, resilience, and the kind of passion that fuels success. Esme shared her insights into navigating the industry, from breaking in as a writer to forming lasting connections with fellow journalists and editors.Esme also shares her thoughts on the realities of press trips, emphasizing that they can be both glamorous and incredibly demanding. Her advice on the importance of follow-ups and not jumping to negative conclusions when met with silence from editors is a lesson in resilience and professionalism. Throughout our conversation, one key message resonated: the collaborative nature of the pitching process. Esme highlighted how editors appreciate writers who bring fresh, compelling ideas to the table and how forming positive, working relationships is key to success in the industry.Get full show notes and more information at: https://travelmedialab.co/podcast/99 Want to know how to publish your travel stories? Download my free guide in which I share with you the 10 steps to take now to get your work out into the world.For more BTS of this podcast follow @travelmedialabNeed support and accountability? Join our Facebook group!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @travelmedialab!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Travel Media Lab or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Travel Media Lab with Yulia Denisyuk is a podcast about people and places that make our world a fascinating place to be. Each week, we bring you stories from places near and far and sit down with the world’s most exciting travelers, journalists, creators, and people working in the travel space. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer working with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about Travel Media Lab at travelmedialab.co.Mentioned in this episode:Visit JordanThis episode and the rest of this season are brought to you by Visit Jordan. Jordan is a beautiful country in the Middle East that has something for everyone: in a relatively small area, it packs diverse landscapes like the Mediterranean forests of Ajloun, deep canyons in Wadi Dana, the Mars-like desert of Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. Let Jordan be your host for your Middle Eastern adventures. Go to Visit Jordan to learn more.Visit Jordan

Welcome to season 9, everyone! I'm Yulia Denisyuk, your host, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to the new season of our podcast. This episode is extra special for two reasons. First, we get to talk about Jordan, a destination that I absolutely adore. If you know me, you'll know just how much I love this country, and I'll take any opportunity to explore it in depth. We also discuss some of my favorite places in Jordan, debunk some common misconceptions about this destination, and provide valuable insights for first-time travelers to Jordan.The second reason I'm excited about this episode is that, for the first time ever, you'll get to hear the voice of our brilliant podcast producer, Noelia Sanchez. She's been working behind the scenes for three years, and we always have fantastic conversations off the air; however, today, you get to hear Noelia and me on air, and I couldn't be more excited about it. You can learn more about Noelia's work by visiting audiostorytellers.com.This episode and the entire season is made possible by Visit Jordan, the tourism board for this incredible country. Make sure to visit myjordanjourney.com to discover more about Jordan.Get full show notes and more information at: https://travelmedialab.co/podcast/98 Want to know how to publish your travel stories? Download my free guide in which I share with you the 10 steps to take now to get your work out into the world.For more BTS of this podcast follow @travelmedialabNeed support and accountability? Join our Facebook group!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @travelmedialab!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Travel Media Lab or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Travel Media Lab with Yulia Denisyuk is a podcast about people and places that make our world a fascinating place to be. Each week, we bring you stories from places near and far and sit down with the world’s most exciting travelers, journalists, creators, and people working in the travel space. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer working with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about Travel Media Lab at travelmedialab.co.Mentioned in this episode:Visit JordanThis episode and the rest of this season are brought to you by Visit Jordan. Jordan is a beautiful country in the Middle East that has something for everyone: in a relatively small area, it packs diverse landscapes like the Mediterranean forests of Ajloun, deep canyons in Wadi Dana, the Mars-like desert of Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. Let Jordan be your host for your Middle Eastern adventures. Go to Visit Jordan to learn more.Visit Jordan

Welcome to Season 9 of our podcast! I'm Yulia Denisyuk, your host, an award-winning travel photographer, writer, and storyteller who's explored the world's most captivating places. In this season, we're embarking on a thrilling journey of discovery that goes beyond the ordinary.First and foremost, a heartfelt thank you to all our listeners. Your unwavering support has made our podcast a success, with over 30,000 downloads and 12,000 dedicated fans. Your enthusiasm is what keeps us going.This season, we're diving deep into storytelling, bringing you immersive narratives from around the globe. As a travel journalist, I've honed my skills in uncovering intriguing stories, and I can't wait to share them with you. If you're passionate about travel or simply curious about the world, this season is tailor-made for you.Join us as we venture into the Middle Eastern deserts, explore the vibrant art scene of Chicago, and much more. Our lineup includes guest appearances by notable figures like Esme Benjamin, editor-in-chief of Full Time Travel, and Emy Rodriguez Flores, a seasoned travel writer based in Barcelona.Exciting news! Season 9 is proudly sponsored by Visit Jordan, a breathtaking country offering diverse landscapes, from lush forests to mesmerizing deserts. I've fallen in love with Jordan and invite you to explore its wonders at myjordanjourney.com.Get ready for a season filled with remarkable stories, hidden treasures, and inspiring people. Your passion keeps us going, so please take a moment to leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback ensures more people can join our journey of exploration.Stay tuned for our first episode, where I'll share why I cherish Jordan and my personal connections to this incredible destination. Get full show notes and more information at: https://travelmedialab.co/podcast/s9 Want to know how to publish your travel stories? Download my free guide in which I share with you the 10 steps to take now to get your work out into the world.For more BTS of this podcast follow @travelmedialabNeed support and accountability? Join our Facebook group!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @travelmedialab!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Travel Media Lab or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Travel Media Lab with Yulia Denisyuk is a podcast about people and places that make our world a fascinating place to be. Each week, we bring you stories from places near and far and sit down with the world’s most exciting travelers, journalists, creators, and people working in the travel space. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer working with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about Travel Media Lab at travelmedialab.co.

Welcome to Travel Media Lab! I'm your host, Yulia Denisyuk, and in this episode, we're wrapping up our Summer Reading Series with a story set on Mexico's wild Guerrero coast.In this episode, we're traveling to Hotelito, a new beachfront property in Guerrero that's part of the Modern Utopian Society of Adventurers (MUSA). This story was just published this week in Robb Report. If you enjoy this episode and the Summer Reading Series, please take a moment to share share share this episode with your friends or on social media!Get full show notes and more information at: https://travelmedialab.co/podcast/s8b12 Want to know how to publish your travel stories? Download my free guide in which I share with you the 10 steps to take now to get your work out into the world.For more BTS of this podcast follow @travelmedialabNeed support and accountability? Join our Facebook group!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @travelmedialab!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Travel Media Lab or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Travel Media Lab with Yulia Denisyuk is a podcast about people and places that make our world a fascinating place to be. Each week, we bring you stories from places near and far and sit down with the world’s most exciting travelers, journalists, creators, and people working in the travel space. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer working with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about Travel Media Lab at travelmedialab.co.

Welcome to Travel Media Lab! I'm your host, Yulia Denisyuk, and in this episode, we're continuing our Summer Reading Series where I share with you some of my favorite stories I've published to date.In this episode, we're traveling to one of my favorite places on earth, the desert of Wadi Rum in southern Jordan. This story was published in AFAR. If you enjoy this episode and the Summer Reading Series, please take a moment to share share share this episode with your friends or on social media!Get full show notes and more information at: https://travelmedialab.co/podcast/s8b11 Want to know how to publish your travel stories? Download my free guide in which I share with you the 10 steps to take now to get your work out into the world.For more BTS of this podcast follow @travelmedialabNeed support and accountability? Join our Facebook group!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @travelmedialab!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Travel Media Lab or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Travel Media Lab with Yulia Denisyuk is a podcast about people and places that make our world a fascinating place to be. Each week, we bring you stories from places near and far and sit down with the world’s most exciting travelers, journalists, creators, and people working in the travel space. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer working with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about Travel Media Lab at travelmedialab.co.

Welcome to Travel Media Lab! I'm your host, Yulia Denisyuk, and in this episode, we're continuing our Summer Reading Series where I share with you some of my favorite stories I've published to date.In this episode, we're traveling to Austria's westernmost state of Vorarlberg, an unexpected cultural hotspot in the Alps. This story was published in Vogue earlier this year. If you enjoy this episode and the Summer Reading Series, please take a moment to share share share this episode with your friends or on social media!Get full show notes and more information at: https://travelmedialab.co/podcast/s8b10 Want to know how to publish your travel stories? Download my free guide in which I share with you the 10 steps to take now to get your work out into the world.For more BTS of this podcast follow @travelmedialabNeed support and accountability? Join our Facebook group!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @travelmedialab!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Travel Media Lab or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Travel Media Lab with Yulia Denisyuk is a podcast about people and places that make our world a fascinating place to be. Each week, we bring you stories from places near and far and sit down with the world’s most exciting travelers, journalists, creators, and people working in the travel space. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer working with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about Travel Media Lab at travelmedialab.co.

Welcome to Travel Media Lab! I'm your host, Yulia Denisyuk, and in this episode, we're continuing our Summer Reading Series where I share with you some of my favorite stories I've published to date.In this episode, I'm taking you to Mongolia, one of the last remaining remote places on Earth. But that is changing, fast. This story was published in BBC Travel and it's a photo essay, so be sure to visit the link to see some of my images from Mongolia. If you enjoy this episode and the Summer Reading Series, please take a moment to share share share this episode with your friends or on social media!Get full show notes and more information at: https://travelmedialab.co/podcast/s8b9 Want to know how to publish your travel stories? Download my free guide in which I share with you the 10 steps to take now to get your work out into the world.For more BTS of this podcast follow @travelmedialabNeed support and accountability? Join our Facebook group!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @travelmedialab!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Travel Media Lab or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Travel Media Lab with Yulia Denisyuk is a podcast about people and places that make our world a fascinating place to be. Each week, we bring you stories from places near and far and sit down with the world’s most exciting travelers, journalists, creators, and people working in the travel space. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer working with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about Travel Media Lab at travelmedialab.co.

Welcome to Travel Media Lab! I'm your host, Yulia Denisyuk, and in this episode, we're discussing what to do if you feel sluggish this August (how is it August already?!).Everybody in Europe seems to be on vacation in August and in the US, we slug on. On the episode today, we’re going to talk about how we can create time and space to recuperate and recharge for ourselves by attending creative retreats. We’ll look at how to know if you might need a creative retreat, five reasons why retreats work, and the different types of retreats available (including a DIY one!). I also share an invite to our upcoming Barcelona retreat this November and a code to use to get $150 off the registration fee: PODCAST. This code expires on Aug 31st!Get full show notes and more information at: https://travelmedialab.co/podcast/barcelona-retreat Want to know how to publish your travel stories? Download my free guide in which I share with you the 10 steps to take now to get your work out into the world.For more BTS of this podcast follow @travelmedialabNeed support and accountability? Join our Facebook group!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don’t forget to tag us @travelmedialab!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Travel Media Lab or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You’ll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Travel Media Lab with Yulia Denisyuk is a podcast about people and places that make our world a fascinating place to be. Each week, we bring you stories from places near and far and sit down with the world’s most exciting travelers, journalists, creators, and people working in the travel space. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer working with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about Travel Media Lab at travelmedialab.co.