Travel That Matters

The 2023 Master Chef series was such a success that we decided to keep it going for another season! Prepare your palate for adventure, because Travel That Matters is about to take off (again) with the top tastemakers on a culinary journey around the globe, including Nancy Silverton, Wolfgang Puck, Charlie Palmer, Danny Meyer, Jonathan Waxman, and many more incredible chefs and restaurateurs.  In anticipation, listen (or relisten) to season 3 of Travel That Matters, the first iteration of the Master Chef series, and hear from Marcus Samuelsson, Amanda Freitag, Daniel Boulud, Gregory Gourdet, Curtis Stone, among others, who share their favorite destinations, inspiring travel stories, and insider tips.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chef Richard Sandoval was and still is an instrumental force in the proliferation and elevation of Latin American cuisine across the globe. Born and raised in Mexico City—and once an aspiring professional tennis player—his journey into the world of culinary delights began early, setting the stage for a lifetime of epicurean exploration. In this week’s episode, Travel That Matters sends you from the vibrant streets of Mexico City to surprising corners of the globe, showcasing Chef Sandoval’s adventures in authentic Mexican cuisine. Serbia, Dubai, Malta, Lima, Denver—he takes us on a whirlwind tour of flavors and shares several of his favorite spots worldwide. Don’t forget to stick around for the wrap, where Bruce shares why everyone is talking about Mexico City, and why you should consider it for your next travel adventure. A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef series can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting. Thank you also to the MGallery Cures Marines and The Purist: Retreat and Spa for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters’ Master Chef series. To learn more about the The Purist: Retreat and Spa at the MGallery Cures Marines, visit www.lescuresmarines.com. To learn more about Richard Sandoval or any of his many projects, check out: https://www.richardsandoval.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Jackson of Stonestreet Estate Vineyards and Jackson Family Wines (Kendall-Jackson) joined Bruce to talk about all things wine, including why Healdsburg, California, is the best wine town to visit in America, the truth about how the family business got started (and how it was pretty much a “catastrophe”), and other wine destinations he loves and why you should visit them. Should Sonoma Valley be your first choice over Napa?  Before revealing what regions the Jackson family feels represent the future of wine (and why a shift in wine regions proves climate change is real), Chris talks about what makes Stonestreet Estate and its 54,000 acres so unique, what wines you'll taste on the Stonestreet Mountain Excursion, why Stonestreet releases wines five years of age minimum, and how the Jackson family makes decisions centuries, if not decades, out. He then takes us on a wild tour of McLaren Vale and gives us a taste of his top spots in Italy and Oregon. Impress your fine-wine-loving friends by sending them this earthy and elegant episode!  A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of "Travel That Matters" can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences, including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anne-Cecile Degenne is the executive corporate chef for Accor’s Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery, and Emblems hotel brands, overseeing more than 100 boutique restaurant concepts around the globe. Her work and personal travels—which include trekking through Mongolia for two months—have given her a unique perspective on global cuisine, which she shares in this fun and informative interview with Bruce. Classically trained in France, Anne-Cecile has taken her talents from the Caribbean and New York to Korea and Vietnam. She shares her tips and tricks on how to discover the best authentic food culture in every new city she visits, as well as some of the lessons she’s learned about kitchen culture in different countries and how it has influenced her as a chef and traveler.  Anne-Cecile also talks about a number of the exciting new hotel and restaurant projects from Accor, including a new Sofitel in Benin, an MGallery in Nairobi, and a Sofitel Legend in Panama. Finally, Chef Degenne tells a story about her most memorable meal in Korea, one that many people might get pretty squeamish about!   Thank you to Accor for being the exclusive sponsor for this episode. To learn more about any of the hotels, food concepts, or upcoming projects mentioned today, visit https://group.accor.com/. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Including a long list of restaurants in New Orleans, Nina Compton (James Beard award winning Saint Lucian chef currently living in New Orleans and 2nd place winner of Top Chef) gives listeners of this "Travel That Matters" episode countless travel tips for culinary destinations, including Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. As Saint Lucia is her home country, she dives deep into tasty local spots most tourists don't know about, what her Saint Lucian family eats for Christmas, and how her journey to becoming a chef started in Saint Lucia. (Fun fact: Nina's dad was the first Prime Minister of independent Saint Lucia!) Now she's been calling New Orleans home for over 8 years and gives us insider tips of where to eat and what types of food you can find in New Orleans, if you know what to look for. She also gives chef recommendations of what to order at her restaurant, Compere Lapin. Of course, she also talks about her experience on Top Chef, and much more. In the wrap, Bruce sits down with John Cox, preeminent contemporary Bahamian artist and executive director of arts and culture at Baha Mar.John tells us about the Bahamas Culinary & Arts festival at Baha Mar this October and why the Bahamas (and all of the Caribbean) is an exciting place to be as an artist right now. A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef Series can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting. Thank you also to the Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel Hotel and the Frame Brasserie for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters’ Master Chef series. To learn more about the Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel Hotel, visit pullmanparistoureiffel.com. Also, check out framebrasserie.com to book your Eiffel-tower-view table today. Relevant Links: Bywater American bistro https://bywateramericanbistro.com/ Compere Lapin (New Orleans) http://comperelapin.com/ Addis Nola (Ethiopian New Orleans) https://www.addisnola.com/ Dakar (Senegalese New Orleans) https://www.addisnola.com/ Jewel of the South (Cocktails New Orleans) https://www.jewelnola.com/ Marjie’s Grill (New Orleans) https://www.marjiesgrill.com/ Fritai (Haitian New Orleans) https://fritai.com/ Fond Doux (Saint Lucian Resort) https://fonddouxresort.com/ Baha Mar Culinary Arts Festival https://bahamar.com/bahamas-culinary-arts-festival/ Alice Yard (Trinidad Art Collective) https://www.instagram.com/aliceyardinsta/ Fresh Milk (Barbados Art Collective) https://www.instagram.com/freshmilkbarbados/?hl=en To learn more about Nina Compton or any of her projects, check out https://www.instagram.com/ninacompton/?hl=en To learn more about John Cox, check out:  https://www.instagram.com/iamjohnedwardcox/?hl=enSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hawaii, Burgundy, Australia, and California are just some of the places internationally known chef, TV host, entrepreneur, New York Times best-selling author and chef-owner Curtis Stone talks about on this episode of "Travel That Matters" with award-winning travel writer and editor Bruce Wallin. Curtis shares insider tips on all the amazing, unknown places in Australia he’s been to and what's special about the Australian cuisine and the traditions that accompany it. Curtis goes into detail about the foods and ingredients you need to eat when you’re in Australia and where to find them, because you won’t find them anywhere else. Everyone knows Italy has delicious food, but Curtis shares tips on where to find new culinary experiences beyond the hot spots like Rome, Florence, and Sicily. In fact, he provides an actionable step you can take to find authentic food in all of the countries you’re visiting and shares advice on how to plan your next vacation. Curtis also tells listeners about his latest projects and the new spots where you can find his delicious cooking. In the wrap, Bruce sits down with acclaimed Michelin starred Chef George Mendes. Chef Mendes joins Raffles Boston, opening later this summer, as chef to open the signature restaurant Amar and lead the culinary program, which also includes a sleek day to night bar and terrace, and a street side cafe. He was previously the executive chef at the New York Michelin-starred restaurant Aldea.  To learn more about Raffles Boston and the culinary program, visit https://www.raffles.com/boston To learn more about Curtis Stone or any of his projects, visit https://www.curtisstone.com/ To find out more about George Mendes. visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-mendes-31b3281bb/ A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of "Travel That Matters" can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting. Thank you also to Accor and Girafe restaurant by Paris Society for sponsoring this episode of Travel That Matters. To learn more about Girafe, visit https://girafe-restaurant.com/ Links and mentions: Maude: https://www.mauderestaurant.com/ Gwen: https://www.gwenla.com/ Marques de Riscal: https://www.marquesderiscal.com/en/marques-de-riscal-reserva  Belmond Hotel, Maroma: https://www.belmond.com/hotels/north-america/mexico/riviera-maya/belmond-maroma-resort-and-spa/ Indian Star: https://www.indianstar.com.au/ Topanga Social: https://www.eatplaytopangasocial.com/ Amar, Raffles Boston (Opening Summer 2023): https://www.raffles.com/boston/dining/amar/ Long-Bar, Raffles Boston: https://www.raffles.com/boston/dining/long-bar-and-terrace/ Girafe: https://paris-society.com/en/table/girafe/ Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media Production: Host: Bruce Wallin Producer: AJ Moseley Marketing Director: Catrin Skaperdas Music: Joey Salvia See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gregory Gourdet is an American chef, writer, restaurateur, and former finalist on the twelfth and seventeenth seasons of Top Chef. His first restaurant Kann was named America’s best new restaurant at the 2023 James Beard awards. Gregory shares his experience on Top Chef and how it inspired him to travel around the world. We also get a sneak peek of his work guiding global travel experiences with Modern Adventure. We learn about what part of the world Gregory is most passionate about right now. We hear what trendy country in South America is unlike any other place on earth in terms of unique ingredients and flavor. Gregory shares one of his favorite travel experiences up in the mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico. He also shares his thoughts on why his restaurant Kann has been so well received. We learn about Haiti and why Gregory thinks it’s poised to become a hot travel destination again. We find out what his “last meal” would be if he had to pick only one! Gregory shares his favorite nonfood-related trip, and why it’s such an ultra experience. Finally, we hear what and where Gregory’s best meals of the year have been.  In the wrap, Bruce welcomes chef Wayne Brown to the show. Wayne heads up operations of Carte Blanched – Ennismore’s in-house F&B development and concepting studio. We learn what goes into the concept development with Carte Blanched projects. Wayne also shares how Carte Blanched tailors each concept to its unique region and culture. We get a sneak peek into an exciting upcoming mixology project opening in Barcelona. We hear more about the new Mondrian Singapore Duxton food concepts coming to life, and how “the greatest butcher in the world” Dario Cecchini is building their new restaurant Bottega Di Carna. Finally, Wayne shares some interesting stories about his travels to Asia, and how those trips led him to who he is today.  To learn more about Gregory Gourdet or any of his projects, visit https://gregorygourdet.com/  To find out more about Wayne Brown and Carte Blanched, visit https://carte-blanched.com/  A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef Series can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting. Thank you also to Accor and the Mondrian Singapore Duxton for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters’ Master Chef series. To learn more about the Mondrian Singapore Duxton and their Bottega Di Carna restaurant visit https://book.ennismore.com/hotels/mondrian/singapore-duxton/dining  Links and mentions: Modern Adventure: https://modernadventure.com/ La Picanteria (Peru): https://picanteriasdelperu.com/ Kann (Portland): https://kannrestaurant.com/ Sousol (Portland): https://sousolbar.com/ Tatiana (NYC): https://www.tatiananyc.com/ Skybar Condesa (Mexico City) https://book.ennismore.com/nightlife/skybar/condesa Cleo Mediterraneo: https://book.ennismore.com/restaurants/cleo Mondrian Singapore Duxton: https://book.ennismore.com/hotels/mondrian/singapore-duxton Hyde Hotel, Niko (Ibiza): https://book.ennismore.com/hotels/hyde/ibiza/dining Bottega Di Carna (Singapore): https://book.ennismore.com/hotels/mondrian/singapore-duxton/dining  Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media Production. Host: Bruce Wallin Producer: AJ Moseley Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas Music: Joey SalviaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gail Simmons has served as a permanent judge on Bravo’s Emmy-winning series Top Chef since the show’s inception in 2006. She is also a food journalist, cookbook author, mother of two, and avid global traveler. In this episode, we hear some of Gail Simmon’s insights on judging Top Chef contestants and dishes, but she mainly talks about how travel has shaped her career and life. We learn about her time working on a kibbutz in Israel, and her firsthand knowledge of why the country has such a unique culinary scene and culture. She also talks about her love of Australia, why the country’s food scene is so exciting, and how she found the perfect neighborhood spot in Melbourne.  Gail also shares why she goes back to South Africa again and again, and how safaris have been such an influential experience throughout her life. As for her favorite food destination, Gail goes into her love of Japan and some of her great culinary adventures in the country. She also talks about how important traveling with her family has been—and will continue to be—for her.  In the wrap, Bruce sits down with acclaimed Israeli chef Uri Jeremias at his Efendi Hotel in the Old City of Akko. The man behind the famed restaurant Uri Buri, Uri shares his insights about what makes Israel such a special destination for food, history, and more. To learn more about Gail Simmons or any of her projects, visit http://gailsimmons.com/. To find out more about Uri Jeremias and his Efendi Hotel and Uri Buri restaurant in the Old City of Akko, visit https://efendi-hotel.co.il/?lang=en.   A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef series receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines, including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to www.Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible deals—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting. Thank you also to Accor and Raffles Doha for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters’ Master Chef series. To learn more about the Raffles Doha or its new ALBA restaurant from chef Enrico Crippa, visit https://www.raffles.com/doha/dining/alba-by-enrico-crippa/.  Kann (Portland) https://kannrestaurant.com/ ARU (Melbourne) Thai https://aru.net.au/ Cumulus (Melbourne) https://www.cumulusinc.com.au/ Kruger National Park  https://www.krugerpark.co.za/ Six Senses Shaharut https://www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/shaharut  Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media Production. Host: Bruce Wallin Producer: AJ Moseley Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas Music: Joey SalviaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Highly decorated chef and owner of prestigious restaurants all over the world Daniel Boulud starts off this episode of Travel That Matters by telling us what and how he prepared one of the best meals host Bruce ever had the night before this interview was recorded. The two go on to discuss Daniel’s experience working in a variety of Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe as well as why Daniel thinks his hometown of Lyon, France, is such a great travel and food destination. They also discuss their shared love of Bahamian food and what makes the seafood culture so unique. Then, Daniel names some of his favorite countries to travel and eat his way through, and why he thinks they’re so distinguishable from the rest. Daniel is a lover of philanthropy and shares some of the ways he likes to give back both globally with his chef colleagues and nationally with his family. Daniel also shares a sneak peek of his first west coast restaurant opening soon. Finally, the two chat about the importance of family travel and sharing unique foods with their children at a young age.  To learn more about Chef Daniel Boulud or any of his projects, visit https://www.danielboulud.com/ A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef series can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting. Thank you also to Accor and Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters’ Master Chef series. To learn more about the Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk and Brasserie Boulud, visit https://www.sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com/restaurants-bars/brasserie-boulud/ Mentions: Restaurant Del Pescatore: https://www.dalpescatore.com/it LA MEUNIÈRE: https://www.lameuniere.fr/ Le Suprême: https://lesupremelyon.fr/fr Café Boulud The Bahamas: https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/baha-mar/dining/cafe-boulud Le Pavillon NYC: https://lepavillonnyc.com/ Le Gratin: https://www.legratinnyc.com/ Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media Production. Host: Bruce Wallin Producer: AJ Moseley Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas Music: Joey Salvia This interview with Chef Daniel Boulud took place at the Rosewood Baha Mar resort in The Bahamas. https://bahamar.com/hotels/rosewood/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Amanda Freitag, well known for being a judge on Food Network’s “Chopped,” shares what unique item she collects during her travels around the world, her experiences as a chef, what restaurant was getting live frogs in a box in the morning and selling out before end of day, what she appreciates about Italian food that might surprise you, where she wants to travel to next, her suggestion for the best pizza in the US, and her favorite food cities in the US and what makes them so great. Amanda shares her thoughts on "what grows together goes together” and the new canned and bottled cocktail movement. Also, Bruce gives Amanda his suggestion for her next food trip. But that's not all! We also have a segment with famous Bahamian chef Simeon Hall Jr., a local legend and avid travel enthusiast. Simeon highlights how food plays a crucial role in travelers visiting the Bahamas and connecting people to his local culture and history. He provides valuable tips and restaurant suggestions for travelers looking to experience the country through its unique food. Chef Simeon also shares his must-try dishes for anyone visiting the Bahamas who is looking to get an authentic experience. To learn more about Amanda Freitag or any of her projects, visit https://www.amandafreitag.com/ To find out more about Chef Simeon Hall Jr, visit https://www.simeonhalljr.com/ A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef series can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to www.stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting. Thank you also to Accor and Bōkan London for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters’ Master Chef series. To learn more about the Bokan Restaurant and bar, visit http://bokanlondon.co.uk/. The interview with Chef Simeon Hall Jr took place at the Rosewood Baha Mar resort in The Bahamas. See www.omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Travel That Matters is back! The first episode of the brand-new Master Chef series features Marcus Samuelsson, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author, philanthropist and food activist. Marcus shares with us what he eats at ballpark stadiums, where goes to buy his spices and sauces in LA, and the differences in food and culinary scenes across the continent of Africa. Marcus also shares why food lovers should consider Sweden as a top destination. Marcus goes on to recount some wonderful stories from his experience in filming with Anthony Bourdain, as well as how filming No Passport Required (PBS) really exposed him to the bounty of food cultures across the U.S. (and what his favorite food cities are now.) Finally, Marcus talks about the impact one of the country’s most cherished food writers, Jonathon Gold, had on the food scene in Los Angeles and beyond. To learn more about Marcus's restaurants, recipes, and recordings, check out: https://marcussamuelsson.com/. A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef Series can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting. Thank you also to Accor and Fairmont Grand del Mar for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters Master Chef series. To learn more about Fairmont Grand del Mar and its Michelin-three-star restaurant, Addison, visit fairmont.com. This interview took place at the Rosewood Baha Mar resort in The Bahamas. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From planes to plates, this special podcast season of Travel That Matters with Bruce Wallin, award-winning travel editor, takes you on a culinary adventure around the globe. This brand-new Master Chef series features some of the best chefs and food personalities in the world and the global ventures that shaped them all. You’ll hear what it takes to create stunning hand-made pasta from the distinguished chef Daniel Boulud, get an inside look into the sights, smells, and tastes from around the world that inspired chefs Marcus Samuelsson and Gregory Gourdet, and learn about the best food cities in the United States, including where to find the best pizza (hint: it’s not in New York), from celebrity chef Amanda Freitag! You’ll also hear from Gail Simmons, Curtis Stone, Chris Jackson, Simon Hall Jr., and many more. The new Master Chef series from Travel That Matters showcases the “who’s who” of the culinary world and gives you a taste of how global travel makes food magical. Episode 1 of Travel That Matters Season 3 will be released on April 25. Hit the follow button (+) wherever you get podcasts and don't miss new episodes every other Tuesday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Getting people to think differently when deciding where to travel next is a specialty of the travel journalist Andrew Nelson, a writer for two decades with National Geographic Travel and a two-time Lowell Thomas prize winner. Andrew joins Bruce on the podcast to discuss places in his new National Geographic book, Here Not There, revealing 100 alternative travel destinations to the ones we've probably all heard about 1,000 times. Andrew tells us about the places that are overlooked and why they're worth visiting, in addition to the obvious benefit of often being less crowded and less expensive. He guides us to the Miami of the North, the Amsterdam of the Midwest, and a place he describes as the most accessible yet mysterious places he's ever visited. He'll even tell us where you can dance until dawn and drink (responsibly) like a fool. Andrew doesn't just list places in this Travel That Matters episode, but tells us about the history, the tours and events you can attend, and the food that's there for you to enjoy. He emphasizes the element of surprise in travel, while adding in bragging rights that come with being among the few who have traveled to some of these alternative destinations. --- You can find out more details about the locations below mentioned in the episode: Zozobra Festival: https://burnzozobra.com/ The Secret Stairs of Los Angeles https://secretstairs-la.com/ San Cassiano, Dolomites https://www.altabadia.org/en/italian-alps-dolomites/villages/san-cassiano.html Kotor, Montenegro https://www.turismomontenegro.es/ciudades-de-montenegro/kotor/ Alamos, Sonora https://www.gob.mx/sectur/articulos/alamos-sonora Bottleworks Hotel: https://www.bottleworkshotel.com/ --- To learn more about Andrew Nelson, check out his website https://andrewtnelson.com/ --- Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media production. Host: Bruce Wallin Producer: AJ Moseley Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas Music: Joey SalviaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Embark on an adventure through South Africa with Liam Tomlin (Cape Town chef), Deborah Calmeyer (ROAR Africa founder), and Tiago Sarmento (managing director of Belmond in Southern Africa), whose stories and insider tips on crafting the ultimate travel experience will have you hooked on this something-for-everybody destination. On his recent trip to Cape Town and Tswalu Kalahari reserve in South Africa, Bruce caught up with Tomlin and Sarmento to talk about Cape Town’s culinary delights, under-the-radar gastronomic and adventure tours, going on safari with children, and other unique experiences beyond the ordinary. Bruce also spoke with safari expert Calmeyer, who shares tips for first-timers, malaria-free areas, the best farmer’s market in Cape Town, and a two-week blowout itinerary. You’ll also learn where locals from Cape Town go for vacation—hint: there’s great whale watching—and get fun facts like where you can order half a goat in a car wash. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or planning your first trip, whether you’re going with kids or just adults, this episode has something for you. Listen and catch the full details of why South Africa is a must-visit, and hear Bruce give his email for anyone who would like his help with planning a safari experience. Wait until the end to hear Bruce share a few of his favorite picks for safari adventures in South Africa and beyond. --- You can find out more details about the locations mentioned in the episode below: Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel, https://www.belmond.com Chef’s Warehouse, https://www.chefswarehouse.co.za ROAR Africa, https://www.roarafrica.com  Tswalu Kalahari, https://tswalu.com Delaire Graff Estate, https://www.delaire.co.za Oranjezicht Farmer’s Market, Cape Town Singita Sabi Sand, https://singita.com Cheetah Plains, https://www.cheetahplains.com Singita Grumeti, https://singita.com Selinda Reserve / Great Plains Conservation, https://greatplainsconservation.com Wilderness Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp, https://www.wildernessdestinations.com Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge, https://www.belmond.com Belmond Eagle Island Lodge, https://www.belmond.com Pigcasso, https://pigcasso.org --- Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media production. Host: Bruce Wallin Producer: AJ Moseley Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas Music: Joey SalviaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we're recommending a Pushkin podcast, A Slight Change of Plans, where Maya Shankar blends compassionate storytelling with the science of human behavior to help us understand who we are and who we become in the face of a big change. In this episode, Dr. Richard "Harry" Harris is an anesthesiologist and expert cave diver who was tasked with a seemingly impossible mission: to rescue a boys' soccer team trapped 2.5 miles deep within a flooded cave in Thailand. He talks with Maya about his decision to heed the call.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Divia Thani is an incredible and inspiring source of information on how best to explore the many different regions of India, from the Himalayas in the north to Chettinad in the south. In this episode of Travel That Matters, Bruce speaks with Divia, the Global Editorial Director of Condé Nast Traveler, about her home country of India, inclusive of the bustling scene in Goa, the best time of year to visit, where to find the best jewelry, and the thrills of a tiger safari (and how it’s different than the safari experience in African countries). Divia gives useful tips like how to see India without falling into a tourist trap, if you should see the Taj Mahal or skip it, where to go if you have particular hobbies such as hiking or skiing, and how to find authentic food in India. Divia also tells us about her favorite Indian dish, mentions a few specific restaurants in India that you'll want to try, and talks about Indian cuisine in London, where she lives today. --- You can find out more details about the locations mentioned in the episode below: NAAR (Chef: Prateek Sadhu) BiBi (Chef: Chet Sharma) --- Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media production. Host: Bruce Wallin Producer: AJ Moseley Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas Music: Joey SalviaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our love of travel and food converge in spectacular fashion in this exploration of Mexico and its many regional cuisines with chef and TV host Pati Jinich. As the host of the 3x James Beard Award-winning PBS television series “Pati’s Mexican Table,” resident chef at the Mexican Cultural Institute in Washington, D.C., and a cookbook author, Pati is the perfect person to lead us on a culinary adventure through the country, diving into its regional specialties, under-the-radar restaurants, and the Mexican dishes foreigners don't know about that they should seek out. This episode is packed with specific foods you'll want to try when you're in Mexico—from cochinita pibil (a personal favorite of both Bruce’s and producer AJ’s) to the exceptional shrimp of Sinaloa—and Pati's explanations of exactly how some of these dishes are made will leave your mouth watering. She includes important details like why some Mexican dishes can be re-created deliciously in other countries around the world, while others need to be tasted at the source because of the ingredients and techniques. Pati’s passion for Mexican culture and cuisine is contagious, as she takes us from a remote family restaurant in Halachó in the south to the modern streets of Monterrey in the north—a city that surprised even her! In addition, she teaches us what malinchista means and why the cuisine of Mexico making it to the UNESCO list has helped the people of Mexico gain a new appreciation for their traditional foods and techniques. She also talks about how to stay safe while visiting Mexico’s most popular and more remote regions. Listen to the end to find out what Bruce's favorite places and foods are in Mexico! --- You can find out more details about the locations mentioned in the episode below: Niddo Cara de Vaca Ya'axche (Chef Wilson Alonzo) La Fina Cocina del Barrio Sonorita Pepe’s Taco Pancho’s Takos Doña Chela Mercado Cleofas Mota Tequila --- To learn more about what Pati is up to, be sure to check out her website: https://patijinich.com/ Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media production. Host: Bruce Wallin Producer: AJ Moseley Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas Music: Joey SalviaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we're recommending a podcast for Scotland-lovers by award-winning travel blogger Kathi Kamleitner. This clip is of her conversation with Mark Williams, a forager and foraging tutor with over 30 years of experience. Originally from the Isle of Arran, Mark lives in Galloway these days and runs foraging classes and workshops all over Scotland. In the episode, Kathi and Mark cover...      •     How Mark became a full-time forager      •     His favorite plants, mushrooms and seaweeds to forage      •     Tips for aspiring foragers in Scotland (and beyond)      •     What he loves most about foraging      •     What foraging and traveling have in common      •     Tips for a lovely trip to GallowaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Tara Stoinski, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund President, CEO and Chief Scientific Officer, joins Bruce to discuss the fascinating scientific and conservation work the organization does in the mountains of Rwanda, as well as the fund’s brand-new Ellen DeGeneres Campus—a facility that will not only change how we study and protect mountain gorillas but also enhance what is already one of the world’s epic travel experiences.Continuing the work of the legendary Fossey—who was murdered in Rwanda in the 1980s—Stoinski and her team of scientists have piloted what is one of the rare success stories for a critically endangered species. The foundation has monitored six generations of mountain gorillas over the years, and in that time the estimated population in the wild has gone from 240 specimens to more than 600.Stoinski discusses why mountain gorillas—which also reside in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda—are so important to protect, including the fact that they are the “gardeners” of the rainforest, helping to take care of these critical ecosystems through their foraging. She also talks about poaching, snares, and some of the other challenges gorillas face, as well as the effective measures the Rwandan government has taken over the past years to ensure their recovery.Stoinski also talks about one of the most impactful travel experiences you can have—and one that is sure to convince anyone that mountain gorillas must be protected.Learn More:Go2Africa: https://www.go2africa.com/Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund: https://gorillafund.org/----------------------------------- This episode was first published in March of 2022. Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media production. Host: Bruce Wallin Producer: AJ Moseley Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas Music: Joey SalviaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Robert Sutton didn't always know he wanted to travel through 124 countries and be the best exotic food trader, but we're glad he did! This episode is packed with the most interesting stories, like where vanilla is really from and how it grows in its natural state, what the most potent and natural antioxidant on the face of the earth is, what volcanoes have to do with the best culinary destinations in the world, what herb is the secret ingredient to staying active over the age of 100 and where to find it, where tomatoes are from (hint: it's not Italy), and more. You'll also learn what John's number one destination recommendation is for top ingredients and cuisine, where John draws the line on if a place is too dangerous to visit at that time, and how John got started in this line of work that brings him across valleys and deserts in search of unique items that chefs and people use all over the United States. Listen to the end because you'll also hear from Claudia Hanna, Mediterranean Culinary/Lifestyle Expert and host of If This Food Could Talk. She teaches us all about olives and olive oil, including why there's no difference between a green and black olive, takes us through a day on Cyprus (it sounds magical), and gives us tricks of the trade for getting off the beaten path while traveling. Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media production. Host: Bruce Wallin Producer: AJ Moseley Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas Music: Joey SalviaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.