Travel in 10: Travel Podcast

Paris, beyond the postcards: a second-trip guide with Oliver Gee from The Earful Tower

You’ve done Paris once. Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Luxembourg Gardens—check. Now what? In this episode, we sit down in a café in the 11th arrondissement with Oliver Gee, host of The Earful Tower, to plan a “second visit” to Paris that steps off the tourist track: covered passages, neighborhood cafés, budget-friendly bouillons, cabarets that are actually fun, where to stay, and how to arrive without wrecking your first impression. GUEST Oliver Gee, host of The Earful Tower and founder of Earful walking tours in Paris. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN * Why your second trip is when Paris really clicks * Which neighborhoods reward wandering (11th, 19th, 20th) * The covered passages worth seeking out and why they’re special * Lunch spots and coffee bars locals actually use * Bouillons: beautiful rooms, classic fare, tiny bills—what to expect * Solo-friendly nights out (including cabaret) * Smart lodging and airport choices that save time and sanity PLACES, EATS, AND EXPERIENCES MENTIONED * Covered passages: Galerie Vivienne; Passage Jouffroy (home to Hôtel Chopin) * Cafés & lunch favorites: Café Méricourt; Holybelly * Vintage shopping: Kilo Shop (pay-by-weight, multiple locations) * Budget dinner, big atmosphere: Bouillon Chartier; Bouillon Pigalle * Night out: Moulin Rouge and other cabarets around Pigalle/Montmartre * Where to stay: Aim central (arrondissements 1–11) to cut transit time * Getting into town: Consider a taxi from CDG/ORY for a smooth first impression; if you have a choice, many prefer Orly for speed and simplicity OLIVER’S WALKING TOURS Earful Tower tours focus on discovery over dates and statues—courtyards, stories, and hidden details. Oliver personally leads a Monday-morning Marais tour most weeks. Book: Earful Tower Walking Tours — https://theearfultower.com/the-earful-tower-walking-tours/ [https://theearfultower.com/the-earful-tower-walking-tours/] The Earful Tower (podcast): https://theearfultower.com/the-podcast/ HOST’S FIELD NOTES (POST-INTERVIEW) * The covered passages are as atmospheric as promised. Highlights: Galerie Vivienne; Passage Jouffroy with Hôtel Chopin tucked inside. * Kilo Shop is a fun, budget-friendly vintage stop—great with teens. * Bouillon Pigalle (more modern) and Bouillon Chartier (old-school classic) both deliver on vibe and value. Go off-peak to avoid lines. LINKS * Earful Tower Walking Tours: https://theearfultower.com/the-earful-tower-walking-tours/ [https://theearfultower.com/the-earful-tower-walking-tours/] * The Earful Tower (podcast): https://theearfultower.com/the-podcast/ [https://theearfultower.com/the-podcast/] * Galerie Vivienne: https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/EWLWk69bPK [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/EWLWk69bPK] * Passage Jouffroy: https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/vPe_qlc-k [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/vPe_qlc-k]_ * Hôtel Chopin: https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/kAi6jwzSwO [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/kAi6jwzSwO] * Bouillon Chartier: https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/ChjgrLpu65 [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/ChjgrLpu65] * Bouillon Pigalle: https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/R0lquYf-FC [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/R0lquYf-FC] * Café Méricourt: https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/CxHC_wg8VQ [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/CxHC_wg8VQ] * Holybelly: https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/r8REHD-T4M [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/r8REHD-T4M] * Kilo Shop: https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/pCUKWUrJif [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/pCUKWUrJif] * Moulin Rouge: https://getyourguide.stay22.com/voyascape/yJ9bYglmxu [https://getyourguide.stay22.com/voyascape/yJ9bYglmxu] Note: Some links mentioned may be affiliate links. Using them to book comes at no extra cost to you and helps support this podcast.

What's New in Orlando: Universal's Epic Universe, Ette Hotel and much more

Orlando may be best known as the theme park capital of the world, but there’s a lot more going on than meets the eye. In this episode, Tim Johnson and David Brodie explore the city’s ever-evolving theme park scene — with a deep dive into the brand-new Epic Universe [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/dzThOy2VCz] at Universal Orlando Resort [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/dzThOy2VCz]. From immersive Harry Potter rides to adrenaline-pumping coasters, we break down the top new attractions — and some surprising standouts like Dezerland Park [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/vnGASdb-wM] and the Ette Hotel [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/inpoxaG-kC], a Michelin Key-awarded boutique hotel near Walt Disney World [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/0RP_IkeMSX]. What You'll Hear About • Why Orlando is still the most visited destination in the U.S. • What’s new at Walt Disney World [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/0RP_IkeMSX]: Zootopia 4D show and Disney Starlight Parade • Staying at the Ette Hotel [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/inpoxaG-kC] — a luxury boutique option near Animal Kingdom • Hidden gem: Dezerland Park [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/vnGASdb-wM] and its Hollywood car collection • A full day at Epic Universe [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/dzThOy2VCz], featuring:  – Ministry of Magic ride in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter  – Stardust Racers and Curse of the Werewolf roller coasters  – Lunch at Flora Taverna inside the Universal Grand Helios Hotel [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/TIjWJvYcja]  – Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge and Minecart Madness in Nintendo World • Pro tips on beating the crowds and making the most of your visit • Why staying late for the nighttime light show is totally worth it Episode Resources * Epic Universe (Universal Orlando) [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/dzThOy2VCz] * Ette Hotel Orlando [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/inpoxaG-kC] * Dezerland Park [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/vnGASdb-wM] * Walt Disney World [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/0RP_IkeMSX] * Universal Grand Helios Hotel [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/TIjWJvYcja] Sponsored by Visit Orlando This episode was produced with support from Visit Orlando. Some links above are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you book — at no additional cost to you. We only recommend places we’ve personally experienced and loved. Connect with Us Website: voyascape.com [https://www.voyascape.com] Instagram: @voyascapemedia Apple Podcasts: Travel in 10 [https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/travel-in-10-travel-podcast/id83260487] Spotify: Travel in 10 [https://open.spotify.com/show/2tGNCTTwTpENGF6ywy9IFE?si=adfd0aa85e7b4b7f] YouTube: Voyascape Channel

Exploring Parisian Markets, Jazz Clubs & Boutique Hotels

In this episode of Travel in 10, we continue our exploration of Paris, this time focusing on three of the city’s most iconic markets. In the last episode, we toured the streets of Paris with Oliver Gee from The Earful Tower. Today, we step deeper into local life, where the colours, flavours, and sounds of Paris come alive in its bustling marketplaces. From open-air boulevards to historic covered halls, these markets are the perfect way to connect with Parisian culture — whether it’s your first visit or your fifth. David shares his favorites from a recent trip, along with tips for where to stay and a classic Paris jazz club to visit at night. FEATURED MARKETS Marché Bastille [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/_wWe1deGe5] * Open Thursdays and Sundays, near the Bastille * One of the largest and liveliest open-air markets in Paris * Fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, seafood, flowers, and street food * Sunday is the busiest day and the best for variety Marché des Enfants Rouges [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/uXI1KtRWu2] * Open Tuesday to Sunday in the 3rd arrondissement * Oldest covered market in Paris (1615) * Known for high-quality food stalls and small restaurants * Global cuisine alongside French favorites; great communal dining atmosphere Marché d’Aligre / Marché Beauvau [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/sT-0iPQCEY] * Open Tuesday to Sunday in the 12th arrondissement * Combination of outdoor produce stalls and a covered market * Popular with locals and chefs; known for authentic atmosphere * Surrounded by a foodie neighborhood with excellent cafés, wine shops, and specialty stores * Flea market outside most mornings except Monday ADDITIONAL PARIS TRAVEL TIPS Stay – Hotel 34B [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/Cxxktpx2AR] (Astotel Group) * Stylish boutique hotel with excellent value * Free in-room minibar (non-alcoholic drinks and snacks) * Complimentary afternoon snacks and drinks at any Astotel property in the city * Great locations and unique design inspired by each neighborhood Nightlife – Caveau de la Huchette [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/ypB-Ov8bMk] * Legendary Paris jazz club in the Latin Quarter * Live music until the early hours, every night * Welcoming atmosphere and great value Note: Some of the above links are affiliate links. By booking through them, you pay no extra, but a small portion of your booking helps support this podcast.

Zacatlán, Mexico: Part 2 -Local Cusine & Unique Traditions

In part two from Zacatlán—a Pueblo Mágico tucked in Mexico’s apple-growing highlands—David sits down with Angelica Herrera, owner of Casa Madera, to unpack the region’s soul-warming cuisine, misty canyon scenery, and adventure options that have long made this town a beloved escape for Mexicans. Expect talk of apple fairs and parades, glass-balcony waterfall viewpoints, and rustic-modern stays perched right on the cliff’s edge. TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO * Barranca de los Jilgueros (Canyon Viewpoints) – A sweeping cliff panorama that often fills with morning fog—one of Zacatlán’s signature sights. * Waterfalls Circuit – Cascada San Pedro: Close to town and easy to reach. Cascada Las Brisas: Features a glass lookout balcony with dramatic canyon views. Cascadas de Tulimán: A towering, multi-drop fall and a local favorite for hikers. * “Piedras Mágicas” Off-Road Route – Rugged forest outcrops and stone columns reached by razor/ATV or 4×4; otherworldly rock formations and riverborn springs tucked in the woods. * Caves & Ziplining – Guided cave treks through underground rivers plus zipline runs over the canopy—easy to pair with a waterfalls day. * Apple Culture – Cider tastings, apple wines, and seasonal specialties echo the town’s heritage (and make great souvenirs). WHEN TO GO * Best months: April–June for clear skies and fresh mountain air. * August: The beloved Feria de la Manzana (Apple Fair)—parades, performances, and yes… people on floats tossing apples into the crowd. Bring quick reflexes and a sense of humor. WHERE TO EAT & DRINK * Casa Fernández – A local favorite for regional flavors and inventive plates (look for the mole lasagna and excellent cocktails). * Casa Orno – More international leaning (handmade pastas, wood-fired touches) at fair prices. * Mi Viejo Pueblito (at Casa San Miguel) – Charming courtyard setting for Puebla-style comfort food. * Apple Everything – Try pan con queso (cheese bread served at the start of many meals), tlayoyos (stuffed corn-dough triangles with salsas, cheese, and crema), plus ciders and apple liqueurs from local producers. WHERE TO STAY * Casa Madera – Cliff-edge, rustic–modern boutique with minimalist design and 180° canyon views that often float on a sea of fog. Perfect for “slow mornings, big views.” * Casa San Miguel – An 18th-century home turned boutique hotel (spa, temazcal, cowork, onsite restaurant). Central, atmospheric, and lovingly restored. * Montra Glamping – Design-forward domes and tiny-home chalets on the ridgeline, plus a spa—ideal for a cozy, Instagrammable mountain escape. IMPORTANT TO NOTE * Easy pairing with Mexico City – Zacatlán is about 2–3 hours by car from CDMX and pairs beautifully with a capital-city itinerary for a deeper, non-beach look at Mexico. FINAL THOUGHTS Zacatlán trades surf and sand for mist, moss, and mountain air—with hearty Puebla cuisine and adventure at the doorstep. It’s the perfect counterpoint to Mexico City: creative, calm, and proudly local. FOLLOW US & STAY CONNECTED Instagram: @voyascapemedia Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music DISCLOSURE Some links in our show notes may be affiliate links. If you use them to book, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you—helping us keep Travel in 10 on the air. Our Zacatlán visit included hosted elements; opinions are our own.

Discover the Hidden Charms of Zacatlan, Mexico

In this episode, David takes listeners deep into the misty mountains of Puebla, to a town that feels worlds away from Mexico’s sun-soaked coasts. Zacatlán—known for its apple orchards, clockmakers, and cobblestone charm—is a creative and cultural haven just two hours from Mexico City. Joined by Eirick Rodríguez, General Manager of Casa San Miguel, David explores the town’s fascinating blend of history, nature, and craftsmanship. From 18th-century architecture to caves, waterfalls, and local cuisine that redefines mole, Zacatlán offers an authentic slice of mountain Mexico few travellers ever experience. TOPICS COVERED • Zacatlán de las Manzanas – The mountain town where mist meets creativity and tradition. • Local Art & Architecture – How community mosaics and colorful alleyways celebrate regional pride. • Adventure in Nature – From ziplining and waterfalls to mysterious rock formations like Piedras Mágicas. • Boutique Hotels & Glamping – Why design lovers and nature seekers alike are discovering Zacatlán. • Apple Cider & Mole Lasagna – A taste of how local flavors blend Mexican roots with culinary innovation. WHERE TO STAY Casa San Miguel – A beautifully restored 18th-century home turned boutique hotel in the heart of town. With 16 rooms, a spa, temazcal, coworking space, and on-site restaurant, it blends history with contemporary comfort. Mantra Glamping – Perched in the hills above Zacatlán, this stylish glamping retreat features transparent domes, modern chalets, a spa, and panoramic views of the canyon below. Ideal for travelers looking for something a little different—and deeply relaxing. TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO Piedras Mágicas – Hidden deep in the forest and accessible only by 4x4, this surreal natural formation of gravity-defying rock pillars feels straight out of Avatar or Pandora. A magical experience in every sense. Grutas Karmidas in Zapotitlán de Méndez – A thrilling cave hike about an hour and a half from Zacatlán, where visitors walk through an underground river surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites. A must for adventure travelers. El Callejón del Hueso – Known as the “Bone Alley,” this colorful street is lined with mosaic art created by local residents. The tradition began when an artist from the U.S. introduced the technique, sparking a local art movement that now adorns many homes. Zacatlán Clockmaking Heritage – Visit workshops where clocks have been handcrafted for over a century. The first monumental clock in Latin America was built here, and today, Zacatlán exports them across the country—including to Mexico’s Tren Maya project. Town Center & Apple Culture – Stroll through the cobblestone streets, sip apple cider from local producers, and enjoy bakery-fresh pan de manzana (apple bread) as church bells echo through the mist. WHERE TO EAT & DRINK Casa Fernandez – A great spot for local dishes and artistic atmosphere. Don’t miss the lasagna de mole—a creative twist on a classic, blending pasta, beef, and rich mole sauce. La Chichipinga - a great place for the traditional take on Mole. Apple Cider Tastings – Try Zacatlán’s locally made cider, a crisp and refreshing symbol of the town’s heritage. CULTURAL NOTES Zacatlán’s story is as layered as its landscapes. Once influenced by French settlers after a 19th-century battle in the region, the town still carries traces of European style in its architecture and artisan traditions. Its identity, however, remains deeply Mexican—rooted in community, craft, and connection to nature. FOLLOW US & STAY CONNECTED Instagram: @voyascapemedia DISCLOSURE Some links in these show notes may be affiliate links. If you use them to book, we may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. This helps support the production of the Travel in 10 podcast and keeps us exploring new destinations.