GoNOMAD Travel Podcast

Thale Noi, a Lake and Experience in Southern Thailand. We join GoNOMAD writer Chin Leh Liang again as he takes us to a place where water is all around, Thale Noi, or 'little sea' in Thai. It's a bird sanctuary where a boatman can take you on a tour through the pink lotus blossoms floating on the water. See water buffaloes and exotic birds in this sanctuary, more than 180 species. Thale Noi, a remarkable bird sanctuary in southern Thailand, epitomizes the serene beauty of nature, offering a unique experience for avian enthusiasts and nature lovers. This part of Thailand, aptly named 'little sea' in Thai, is a haven for over 180 species of birds, including the prevalent little cormorant, amidst a picturesque backdrop of vibrant pink lotus blossoms. As we embark on an evocative journey alongside GoNOMAD writer Chin Leh Liang, we delve into the ecological significance of this freshwater lake, which has been designated a non-hunting zone since 1975 to protect its diverse wildlife. The optimal way to explore this aquatic paradise is by taking a leisurely boat ride at dawn, allowing us to witness the breathtaking sunrise while navigating through the lotus-laden waters, where water buffaloes and various birds abound. Join us as we uncover Thale Noi's tranquil charm. This destination captivates all who venture into its idyllic embrace.

Today we join Malaysia Native and GoNOMAD staff writer Chin Leh Liang, who takes us to a remote part of a remote island, Sumatra, in Indonesia. Our destination is Berastagi, a cool respite from the hot, humid temperatures of the island, at the 4000-foot elevation and jungles, it is cool and breezy. We visit the important sites of Berastagi including the Pusaka Karo Museum, hike up Gundaling Hill, see the two local volcanoes, Mount Sinabung and Mount Sibayak, and enjoy the local favorite, Karo-style roasted marinated pork. Read more about this part of Sumatra on GoNOMAD.com. https://www.gonomad.com/233882-lake-toba-the-largest-crater-lake Embarking on a journey to Berastagi, a highland town in North Sumatra, this episode unveils the extraordinary allure of a region characterized by its climatic diversity and geographical wonders. Culinary experiences also take center stage in this episode, particularly the much-lauded Karo-style roasted marinated pork, which stands as a testament to the region's culinary heritage. As we contemplate the various offerings of Berastagi, including its tranquil landscapes and the possibility of visiting the expansive Lake Toba, the narrative invites listeners to appreciate the profound beauty and cultural significance of this lesser-known gem in Sumatra. Ultimately, the episode serves as a compelling reminder of the serenity and inspiration that can be found in the embrace of nature and why a place as remote as North Sumatra is worth a visit * The local culinary highlight includes Karo-style roasted marinated pork, a dish renowned for its flavorful spices and crispy texture, often accompanied by steamed rice or fried rice. * Berastagi serves as a gateway to explore nearby natural wonders, such as Lake Toba, the world's largest crater lake, which features an island that houses a remarkably tall statue of Jesus.

A look at the world’s most desolate airports. We start with Mid America St. Louis Airport, a facility originally conceived as a burgeoning hub to augment the operations of Lambert St. Louis International Airport. Despite its grand architectural design and potential to accommodate both domestic and international travelers, the airport has struggled to attract consistent airline operations, largely due to its proximity to a more established airport and insufficient passenger demand. Then we visit the new Siem Reap Angkor International Airport in Cambodia, a project launched in response to the burgeoning tourism in 2025, surrounding the iconic Angkor Wat. With state-of-the-art infrastructure designed to handle millions of passengers, the airport’s reality starkly contrasts its ambitions; it grapples with underutilization and fierce competition from other regional airports. The Cambodian government remains hopeful about its potential role in bolstering the nation’s tourism and economic landscape, yet the challenges it faces underscore the complexities inherent in fostering growth in less accessible regions. Then we tell story of Ciudad Real Central Airport in Spain. Once envisioned as a pivotal European transit hub, it too met an untimely demise due to operational failures and financial miscalculations, culminating in its bankruptcy within just three years of operation. This trajectory of decline across various global airports serves as a sobering testament to the volatility of the aviation sector, and how sometimes airports can come back from nearly dead, as in Worcester Mass Airport.

Penang, Malaysia, is a small island located in the north of peninsula Malaysia; it is a relaxing and fun destination for holidays, with George Town being the capital. Penang is like Malaysia, a combination of Chinese, Malay and Indian citizens that blend to form a unique culture. The narrative unfolds as Chin Liang, a GoNOMAD senior writer, guides us through his home, the island of Penang, Malaysia, a locale that, despite its small size, boasts an impressive array of cultural and natural riches. He emphasizes the necessity of allocating a minimum of three days to fully appreciate the myriad experiences that Penang presents. The capital, George Town, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era, with its well-preserved pre-war architecture reflecting a confluence of Malay, Chinese, and Hindu influences, all intertwined with British colonial charm. The vibrant street art, including the iconic mural 'Children on a Bicycle' by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zakovobek, serves as a testament to the island’s artistic spirit, where every alley and street corner narrates a story steeped in history. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Penang National Park, a compact yet ecologically diverse area that features two distinct trails leading to Monkey Beach and a unique meromictic lake. The latter, with its stratified water layers, presents a rare ecological phenomenon. Visitors can take guided tours at the Penang Turtle Sanctuary, which fosters awareness about marine conservation. Chin also extols the virtues of Penang Hill, accessible via a swift funicular ride, or for the more adventurous, a scenic hike along the Heritage Trail, where one may encounter diverse wildlife, including flying lemurs and various avian species. Culinary exploration is an intrinsic aspect of any sojourn in Penang. From the celebrated Assam Laksa to the rich and tangy Kari Kapitan, the dishes are emblematic of the Peranakan culture born from the intermingling of Chinese immigrants and local Malays. The local food scene is punctuated by several Michelin-starred establishments, ensuring that gastronomes will find themselves in a culinary paradise. Read more about Penang on GoNOMAD.com. https://www.gonomad.com/226551-thaipusam-festival-in-penang-malaysia

A visit to Greenland in 2006 revealed the incredible melting icebergs and the pristine, barely touched surroundings of the world's largest island. Today, new flights can bring travelers directly from the U.S. to Greenland between June and September. Discover what it's like to visit Greenland from those who have been there. Greenland, an enigmatic and largely uncharted territory, beckons travelers with its wide open icy landscapes and melting icebergs, a stark representation of climate change. In our exploration, we delve into the real-lilfe travel experiences GoNOMAD writers who have ventured to Greenland over the years. Since the advent of new direct flights from the United States, facilitating access from June to September anyone can now visit Greenland. As we recount personal narratives and observations from a visit in 2006, we reflect on the pristine beauty of Greenland's undulating ice and the rich culinary offerings, which include musk ox and seal, cherished by the local populace. Additionally, we examine the burgeoning tourist infrastructure and the pressing implications of climate change as witnessed by residents and visitors alike. Join us as we uncover the allure and challenges of Greenland, a destination that is as captivating as it is fragile. Read more on GoNOMAD https://www.gonomad.com/1535-greenland-the-greatness-of-silence.