Bon Voyage Besties: Travel and Friendship

Episode 69: The Paris Travel Guide for People Who Think They’ll Hate Paris with Annmarie Gajdos

Join Rachel and Rosa as they chat with travel journalist and content creator Annmarie Gajdos about how to experience Paris beyond the typical tourist checklist. After visiting more than 35 countries, Annmarie shares how travel became both her passion and career, along with how her perspective on Paris completely changed after learning to embrace the city more like a local. In this episode, the trio discusses the importance of flexible itineraries, spontaneous moments, and meaningful cultural connections while traveling. Annmarie shares practical tips for exploring Paris authentically, including navigating the metro, spending time in local neighborhoods, embracing café culture, and balancing iconic sights with slower, more immersive experiences. They also dive into solo travel, travel mishaps, journaling, overcoming fear of missing out, and why some of the best memories happen when things don’t go according to plan. Whether you’re visiting Paris for the first time or returning for a deeper experience, this episode offers honest advice, thoughtful reflections, and plenty of inspiration for traveling with more intention and curiosity. Follow Annmarie on Instagram: @annmariegajdos Follow us on Instagram and Substack: @bonvoyagebesties

Episode 68: Off the Beaten Path in Belgium: Wallonia Tips with Travel Expert Mélissa Monaco

In this episode, we sit down with Mélissa Monaco, a travel blogger, podcast host, and solo travel advocate who has been inspiring travelers since 2010. As one of the pioneers of travel blogging in French-speaking Belgium, Mélissa has built a platform dedicated to uncovering hidden gems, sharing unforgettable city breaks, and encouraging women to explore the world with confidence. She is also a contributor to Lonely Planet and the voice behind Mel Loves Travels. Throughout the conversation, Mélissa shares how she transformed her passion for travel into a career, why destinations like Belgium, the Baltic countries, and the Faroe Islands deserve more attention, and how solo travel can become a powerful tool for confidence and independence. Her stories, insights, and expert travel tips prove that some of the most rewarding experiences can be found far beyond the typical tourist hotspots. This episode is filled with inspiration for anyone dreaming of their next adventure, planning a city escape, or considering solo travel for the first time. Mélissa’s passion for discovering underrated destinations and helping women travel on their own terms shines through every part of the conversation. Follow Mélissa online: Instagram – @mellovestravels (https://www.instagram.com/mellovestravels) Facebook – Mel Loves Travels (https://www.facebook.com/mellovestravels) Pinterest – Mel Loves Travels (https://www.pinterest.com/mellovestravels) If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with your favorite travel companion. Follow us on socials at @BonVoyageBesties

Bonus: The Ultimate New Jersey Travel Guide: Hidden Gems & Local Secrets

This week, we're celebrating our home state of New Jersey! With America commemorating its 250th anniversary and New Jersey proudly standing as one of the original 13 colonies, we thought it was the perfect time to spotlight the Garden State. Join Rosa and Rachel as they share what makes New Jersey so special—from charming small towns and diverse communities to hidden gems that often fly under the radar. Along the way, we tackle one of the state's most iconic debates: Pork Roll vs. Taylor Ham. Whether you're a lifelong local or planning your first visit, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on a destination that's often misunderstood but full of surprises. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow traveler! Follow us: 📍 @bonvoyagebesties 📍 Rosa: @RosaAlexC 📍 Rachel: @BlondWayfarer Thanks for listening, and as always, Bon Voyage Besties!

Episode 67: Wellness Travel Tips You Need to Book a Mindful Vacation with Malikah Kelly

In this episode of Bon Voyage Besties, Rachel sits down with wellness traveler and content creator Malikah Kelly to explore the growing world of wellness travel and how travelers can create more intentional, restorative experiences. Malikah shares how her background in fashion eventually led her toward wellness-focused travel and explains the difference between a traditional vacation and a trip designed around mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Together, Rachel and Malikah discuss how the pandemic changed the way many people approach travel, leading to a greater focus on rest, mindfulness, and meaningful experiences instead of packed itineraries. The conversation also dives into how to safely research and book wellness retreats, including important green flags, common scams, and why transparency matters when choosing a retreat experience. Rachel and Malikah talk about the influence of social media on wellness travel trends and how travelers can separate authentic experiences from curated online aesthetics. They also share practical advice for travelers on a budget, including ways to incorporate wellness into everyday trips without spending thousands on luxury retreats. From digital detoxes and slow travel to choosing the right travel companions and prioritizing personal goals, this episode offers realistic, approachable wellness travel advice for anyone looking to travel more intentionally while protecting their peace, safety, and overall well-being. Follow Malikah on Instagram @where.is.malikah. Follow Bon Voyage Besties @BonVoyageBesties and on Substack at https://bonvoyagebesties.substack.com/

Episode 66: Why Medellin, Colombia Should Be Your Next Trip with Carley Rojas Avila

Join Rosa and travel journalist Carley Rojas Avila for an insider's guide to one of Latin America's most exciting cities. Carley shares how Medellin has transformed from its turbulent past into a thriving cultural hub, and why its warm community spirit keeps travelers coming back. The conversation covers the city's best neighborhoods, from El Poblado and Laureles to hidden gems beyond the tourist trail, plus must-see attractions like Comuna 13 and the iconic cable car. Carley also digs into the local food scene, highlighting traditional dishes like Bandeja Paisa and innovative restaurants putting fresh spins on Colombian ingredients. Practical tips round out the episode, covering transportation, ideal trip length, and how to experience Medellin like a local while supporting the communities that make the city so special. Follow Carley on Instagram @CarleyRojasAvila and Follow Bon Voyage Besties @BonVoyageBesties