Travel in 10: Travel Podcast

In this episode, David and Tim explore Kuala Lumpur (KL), Malaysia’s dynamic capital—a place where Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures blend into one of Asia’s most colorful urban tapestries. David shares why KL ranks among his favorite Southeast Asian cities, from sizzling night markets to infinity pools overlooking the Petronas Towers, while Tim reflects on his earlier visits and why he’s ready to give the city another chance. Together they dive into where to stay, what to eat, and why KL is one of the best-value hubs for travelers exploring Asia. TOPICS COVERED • Cultural Fusion & Modern Energy – How KL’s mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences shape its neighborhoods, cuisine, and festivals. • Digital Nomad Magnet – Why the city’s affordable luxury, coworking cafés, and serviced apartments draw travelers from around the world. • From the Street Markets to Infinity Pools – David’s experience living like a local in budget-friendly high-rises with skyline views. • Getting Around & Beyond – Why Kuala Lumpur is Southeast Asia’s ultimate air travel hub for quick, affordable connections. TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO Petronas Towers & Skybridge – Malaysia’s most iconic landmark. The 86th-floor observatory offers sweeping views of KL’s skyline and green spaces. Rex KL & REXPERIENCE – A restored heritage cinema turned indie bookstore and immersive digital art hub blending traditional Malaysian art with modern design. Jalan Alor Night Market – The heart of KL’s street food scene, alive with sizzling woks, satay grills, tropical fruit, and the scents of Malaysia’s multicultural cuisine. Ride the LRT & Monorail – Affordable, air-conditioned, and scenic—one of the best ways to see the city’s diversity from above. WHERE TO EAT & DRINK Jalan Alor Food Street – Open late and packed with local favorites like satay, laksa, and grilled seafood. Food Halls in Bukit Bintang – Upscale mall food courts offering clean, high-quality versions of the same beloved street dishes. Tropical Juice Stands & Coffee Spots – KL’s café scene is thriving, with great local roasteries and fruit juice stalls everywhere you go. NEIGHBORHOODS TO EXPLORE Bukit Bintang – KL’s entertainment and shopping heart; home to Jalan Alor, rooftop bars, and luxury malls. Chinatown (Petaling Street) – Packed with heritage architecture, market stalls, and hidden cafés. KLCC – The modern business core anchored by the Petronas Towers and high-end hotels. WHERE TO STAY Ceylonz Suites by Five Senses [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/ecLsg-vyIs] – Modern serviced apartments near Bukit Bintang with rooftop infinity pool, gym, and co-working spaces. Excellent budget choice and digital nomad favorite. JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/trCcoyxvMH] – Central location, five-star service, and great value for a luxury stay (often under $150 USD per night). Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/uCXfkOcJLS] – Tim’s pick for its resort feel in the city; tranquil, elegant, and ideal after a hot day of exploring. The Westin Kuala Lumpur [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/mtbEbLo2w2] – Great location, though now showing its age compared to other nearby properties. CAN’T-MISS EXPERIENCES * Soak in skyline views from a rooftop infinity pool. * Wander the night markets during Ramadan for peak atmosphere. * Explore Rex KL’s art and bookstore maze. * Ride the KLIA Ekspres from the airport into the city for a quick, scenic arrival. * Use Kuala Lumpur as your base to hop around Asia—Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, and India are all just short, affordable flights away. GATEWAY TO MALAYSIA Kuala Lumpur is the perfect starting point for exploring Malaysia’s rich diversity—whether it’s Penang’s street food, Melaka’s colonial history, or Borneo’s beaches and rainforests. FINAL THOUGHTS Kuala Lumpur is one of Asia’s most underrated cities—vibrant, modern, and remarkably affordable. From its fusion cuisine to skyline views and digital nomad-friendly vibe, it offers big-city energy with small-city charm. Whether you’re after culture, cuisine, or connectivity, KL delivers it all—at a fraction of the cost of its regional rivals. FOLLOW US & STAY CONNECTED Instagram: @voyascapemedia [https://www.instagram.com/voyascapemedia] DISCLOSURE Some links in these show notes are 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.

To celebrate 20 years of the Travel in 10 Podcast , David Brodie and co host Tim Johnson look back at how travel podcasting began and where it is today. David is joined by Chris Christensen, creator of long running Amateur Traveler podcast [https://AmateurTraveler.com]and member of the Podcast Hall of Fame, for a candid conversation about starting shows in 2004 to 2005, the gear and grit it took early on, and how travel audio has inspired millions to explore the world. Highlights: * The origin story of Amateur Traveler and Travel in 10 * Early podcasting hurdles, recording setups, and hand built RSS feeds * Why interview driven shows unlock destinations beyond your own travels * How travel podcasts are used by schools, governments, and airlines * Favourite guest stories that challenge assumptions about places and people * Evolving travel styles, trip pacing, and second visit strategies that reveal the local side of a city * Building community across travel podcasters and launching Voyascape Closing music: Grace Forestier, “Leaving on a Jet Plane” (Instagram: @graceforestiermusic [https://www,instagram.com/graceforestiermusic]) Mentioned in this episode: Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/smarttravelpodcast] Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/smarttravelpodcast]

Tim joins David to make the case for Nagasaki as a must-add to Japan itineraries—especially while the yen is favorable. Beyond its solemn WWII history, the city blends European influence, scenic harbor views, island day trips, and incredible food. We cover the Peace Park [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/vBH9Dxh7Yn] and Atomic Bomb Museum, Dejima’s Dutch trading post, Glover Garden, a boat trip to Battleship Island [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/xBA00pgf_p], what to eat (castella and champon), where to stay (from boutique Portuguese-inspired hotels to brand-new design stays), plus nearby onsen culture and the perfect sunset finale from Mount Inasa. Why listen: • A practical “second-trip to Japan” alternative to Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka • How to structure a respectful visit to the Peace Park and Museum • Exactly where Nagasaki’s Dutch/Portuguese legacy shows up today • What and where to eat, stay, and soak—without renting a car WHAT TO SEE & DO * Nagasaki Peace Park [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/vBH9Dxh7Yn]: Begin here to understand the city’s history and commitment to peace. Pair it with the Atomic Bomb Museum for context. * Dejima Island: Re-created streets and warehouses from Nagasaki’s Dutch-trade era. * Oura Cathedral & Glover’s House [https://booking.stay22.com/voyascape/U96ZafX7Uq]: Rare historic church and hillside European mansions with harbor views. * Battleship Island (Hashima) [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/xBA00pgf_p]: A guided boat trip to an eerie, abandoned mining island with UNESCO recognition and a Bond-film cameo. * Mount Inasa Ropeway: Ride up at dusk for glittering harbor views. EAT & DRINK * Castella cake: Nagasaki’s signature Portuguese sponge cake. * Champon noodles: Pork/seafood ramen unique to Nagasaki—try a local favorite near Dejima. * Dejima Wharf & Izakaya alleys: Perfect for fresh sushi, sashimi, and casual small plates. WHERE TO STAY * Hotel Monterey Nagasaki [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/1wZcF4gMcB]: Boutique Portuguese-inspired stay with azulejo tiles and antiques. * Glover’s House boutique hotel [https://booking.stay22.com/voyascape/U96ZafX7Uq]: A hillside retreat next to Glover Garden with breezy views and local character. * Hotel Indigo Nagasaki [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/9NvKzTHxon]: Stylish new property with architecture nodding to the city’s European heritage. * Nearby onsen options: Obama Onsen on the coast, or Kagoshima (a Shinkansen ride away) for private in-room hot spring baths. RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL NOTES * Be respectful at memorials; photography may be restricted. * Support local businesses like castella bakeries and izakaya instead of big chains. * At onsens: follow etiquette (rinse first, no suits, tattoos may need covering). Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click through and make a booking or purchase. Using these links helps support the production of Travel in 10 at no extra cost to you. Featured links include: Nagasaki Peace Park [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/vBH9Dxh7Yn], Battleship Island [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/xBA00pgf_p], Hotel Monterey Nagasaki [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/1wZcF4gMcB], Glover’s House [https://booking.stay22.com/voyascape/U96ZafX7Uq], and Hotel Indigo Nagasaki [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/9NvKzTHxon]. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/smarttravelpodcast] Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/smarttravelpodcast]

We head back to Ecuador to explore a lesser-visited southeastern loop that moves from the high Andes into the Amazon in just a few hours. David and Tim swap rainforest lodge stories, then David sits down in Cuenca with Felipe from Two Degrees Expeditions [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/2degrees] to unpack a new, community-driven route that threads cacao and guayusa farms, light-adventure rafting, birding lodges, Shuar cultural experiences, and standout gastronomy in Saraguro. Why listen: • Discover how quickly you can link the Andes and Amazon in southern Ecuador • Learn what “light adventure” looks like for families and curious first-timers • Hear how Shuar and Saraguro communities are leading culture-forward, sustainable tourism • Get ideas for unique stays, from river-perched rooms to forest cabins PLACES AND EXPERIENCES MENTIONED • Cuenca • The Andes and the Amazon of southern Ecuador • Cacao farm visit and chocolate tasting • Guayusa farming and tea tradition • Family-friendly rafting experience • Shuar community visit and cultural exchange • Saraguro town and Chamuico restaurant (six-course tasting) • Lodges referenced: Rio Vida Lodge (Hualaquiza) [https://booking.stay22.com/voyascape/bYy28_BA0J], Copalinga Forest Lodge [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/BbXXUjwzLK] RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL NOTES • This route is intentionally community-based. Please book with operators who compensate local partners fairly and cap group sizes. • Follow lodge guidance on river and rainforest safety, stick to marked paths, and use insect repellent that is rainforest-safe. • Cultural photography: always ask permission, especially during ceremonies. CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Book directly with Two Degrees Expeditions [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/2degrees] or find them on Instagram at 2 degrees expeditions. [https://www.instagram.com/2degrees_expeditions/] Note: Some of the above are affiliate links. if you book using them you will not be charged any extra, but we will receive a small commission to help support the show. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/smarttravelpodcast] Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/smarttravelpodcast]

This week we’re in Cuenca, Ecuador — a UNESCO World Heritage city nestled in the Andes. Known for its cobblestone streets, historic charm, bohemian spirit, and Panama hats (which, despite the name, actually come from Ecuador), Cuenca is a city where history, culture, food, and nature blend seamlessly. Host David Brodie is joined by Felipe Neira from 2 Degrees Expeditions [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/2degrees], a Cuenca local and guide, to share the best of this remarkable destination — from markets and hot springs to Inca history and modern gastronomy. WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE * The deep history of Cuenca, once the northern capital of the Inca empire. * Why the city’s rivers, surrounding mountains, and fertile valley make it so unique. * The spiritual and cultural experiences found in Cuenca’s markets, including traditional healing rituals. * Relaxing escapes at the region’s hot springs and boutique hotels. * Felipe’s favorite restaurants that highlight Ecuadorian ingredients and innovation. * Why simply walking Cuenca’s streets and riverside paths is one of the city’s greatest pleasures. WHERE TO STAY * Parc Royale Cuenca [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/dMo0qmyyVV] – Boutique charm in a historic building with cathedral views * Itza Hotel [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/GoIr98whVP] – Stylish design and stunning city viewpoints. * Santa Lucia House [https://expedia.stay22.com/voyascape/wAqLBZah1S] – A colonial mansion with a tranquil courtyard and French restaurant. WHAT TO DO * Visit the vibrant 10 de Agosto Market [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/QM2gryB2Td] — for fresh produce, traditional dishes like hornado, and encounters with healers. * Experience traditional healing rituals — with herbs, energy cleanses, and spiritual traditions unique to the region. * Soak in the Baños de Cuenca Hot Springs [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/cq31kB6DHo], a perfect place to relax among the Andes. * Explore the Pumapungo Archaeological Park [https://tripadvisor.stay22.com/voyascape/zZk83t3bBk] — ancient Inca ruins right in the city. * Take in the creativity of Cuenca’s Street Art, with murals and painted cityscapes transforming urban spaces. WHERE TO EAT * La María – Women-led kitchen creating innovative cuisine from traditional Ecuadorian ingredients. * Dos Sucres – Seasonal, farm-to-table dining with produce from their own gardens. PLAN YOUR TRIP * Learn more about tours with 2 Degrees Expeditions [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/2degrees], Felipe’s company offering guided experiences in Cuenca and beyond. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/smarttravelpodcast] Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast [https://travel-in-10.captivate.fm/smarttravelpodcast]