In this episode we go to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and share where we stayed, all the best things to do in Rio and share a few tips we learned that will make your visit to Rio a success, like using an airalo e-sim.
Highlights of this trip were taking in the views atop Sugarloaf Mountain, riding the cogwheel train to the top of Corcovado Mountain to visit the Christ the Redeemer statue, and walking along the boardwalk of Copacabana beach. Check out all of the tours we think are worth doing in Rio in our Rio de Janeiro Viator Shop.
We stayed right on Copacabana beach at the Windsor Leme Hotel. The rooftop pool had fantastic views of the beach and the dining area had views of the Christ the Redeemer statue. Another great beach is Ipanema Beach and Atlantis Copacabana Hotel straddles both Ipanema and Copacabana beaches.
This Rio de Janeiro trip is the start of a Gate1 guided tour that continued on to Iguazu Falls and Buenos Aires, Argentina so listen to those episodes too!
Find a great flight deal to Rio, or anywhere else, by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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We’re revealing how Thrifty Traveler’s premium subscription helps you travel more for less in 2025. Discover how to find mistake fares, first-class upgrades, and luxury hotel deals using one powerful membership. From flight alerts to insider travel hacks, learn how this subscription turns dream trips into affordable adventures. We share how we've used the subscription to find great deals and how we booked them.
How Thrifty Traveler Premium really works
Custom flight deal alerts from your home airport
Mistake fares & business-class savings
Premium+ hotel deal alerts using travel points
Smart travel hacks & credit card tips
Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year of aThrifty Traveler premium subscription
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
Here’s what you’ll hear:
In this episode, we reveal how to spend 48 hours soaking in the best of Louisville, immerse you in Louisville’s alive and thriving history, local culture, and surrounding things to do and see. There is so much to do in this beautiful city, and the people are some of the most hospiable in the country! Throughout the episode we give you a day-by-day itinerary shows off Louisville’s character and charm and will leave you wanting to book a trip!
If you want to take this exact trip, download our two-day Louisville Itinerary!
Louisville Episode Highlights:
Staying at SuperStays Swepson Guest Loft
Salt Wellness Spa Visit in Crestwood
Eating Kentucky classics like the Hot Brown Sandwich
Visiting Atrium Brewery for their amazing beers and sours
Classic Louisville Museums
Wine tasting at Forest Edge Winery in Shepardsville
Our top recommended accommodation in Louisville:
Or check out these hotels in Louisville
Check out our Louisville Activities & Tours for all activities we recommend and even some that we wanted to do but couldn't get to.
Find a great flight deal to Louisville by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
In this week’s Just The Tip, we're sharing 4 splurge-worthy tasting dinners we've done on vacation and inspiring you to indulge in a special, culinary journey while on a trip. And we share a couple more tasting dinner we have our eye on!
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
Today we're taking you to South Western Colorado to spend three days exploring Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park!
Download our Itinerary to follow our same route in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
It is one of Colorado’s four National Parks and is Colorado’s least visited national park. It is in western Colorado, not far from the Utah Border. The Canyon is a deep, steep-walled gorge carved through Precambrian rock by the Gunnison River.
There are two main sections of the park, the more remote North Rim and the more popular South Rim, both have views of the canyon's dramatic drops and the striated Painted Wall cliff. There is another section called East Portal, which is a steep road that descends to the river. The park was named for its cliffs that are often darkened by shadows, making the walls appear black. The canyon itself is so vertical that the Gunnison River drops an average of 43 feet per mile, and 240 feet per mile at its steepest point at Chasm View, making some of the steepest mountain descents in North America.
Episode Highlights:
When is the best time to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?
This national park is best seen from May- September. During the winter the north rim shuts down completely and the south rim is only open to the visitor center.
If you are going to visit this park, you'll also want to visit Mesa Verde National Park. Listen to our episode for details before you go!
Find a great flight deal to Black Canyon, or anywhere else, by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription!
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In this week’s Just The Tip, we share how to score free accommodations around the world by pet sitting, or get free pet sitting for when you are out traveling! We’ll share details about the Trusted Housesitters platform, what to expect from being a host or pet sitter, real stories from Kim’s experiences, and tips for landing your first sit. Perfect for budget travelers, digital nomads, and anyone who loves pets and adventure.
Use our promo code 12TRUST to get 12% off your membership when you sign up at Trusted Housitters using our link!
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
In this episode, we’re taking you to the heart of England London, a city where history, culture, and modern life blend seamlessly. From the grandeur of Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London to the lively streets of Soho and Camden, this episode uncovers the city’s best spots for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.
You’ll get insider tips on navigating the Tube, finding the best fish and chips, and exploring local favorites beyond the tourist trail.
If you want to take this exact trip, download our 2 day London Itinerary!
Our top recommended Hotels in London (pick hotels near Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, or Big Ben)
Check out our London Activities & Tours for all activities we recommend and even some that we wanted to do but couldn't get to.
Find a great flight deal to London by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
In this episode we take a day trip to Sintra, a magical town where colorful palaces rise above misty hills and cobblestone streets lead to hidden gardens and ancient castles. We cover how to get to Sintra from Lisbon, views you have to see to believe, historic attractions you can’t miss, and how to use Sintra’s 24 Hour Bus Pass to make getting around the city easier.
Our top recommended hotels in Sintra:
Or check out these hotels in Sintra
Check out our Sintra Activities & Tours for all activities we recommend and even some that we wanted to do but couldn't get to.
Find a great flight deal to Portugal by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
In today’s episode, we’re sharing everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Portugal’s sun-soaked capital Lisbon. You'll be inspired to wander the historic streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, taste mouthwatering pastries and explore hilltop viewpoints. Lisbon offers a mix of old-world charm and modern energy and this episode will make you fall in love with.
If you want to take this exact trip, download our 4 day Lisbon Itinerary!
Lisbon Episode Highlights:
Our top recommended Hotels in Lisbon
Or check out these hotels in Lisbon
Check out our Lisbon Activities & Tours for all activities we recommend and even some that we wanted to do but couldn't get to.
Find a great flight deal to Portugal by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
Show Notes
Escape to Madeira, a breathtaking island where rugged cliffs meet turquoise seas and vibrant towns blend with lush mountain trails. Known as the Island of Eternal Spring, Madeira is a dream destination for travelers who crave nature, culture, and relaxation all in one place. From exploring Funchal’s charming streets to hiking the Pico do Arieiro peaks and swimming in Porto Moniz’s natural pools, every moment feels magical.
Whether you’re chasing adventure or a peaceful seaside escape, Madeira offers the perfect balance of beauty, flavor, and unforgettable experiences.
If you want to take this exact trip, download our 4 day Madeira Itinerary!
Madeira Episode Highlights:
Our top recommended hotels in Madeira:
Check out our Madeira Activities & Tours for all activities we recommend and even some that we wanted to do but couldn't get to.
Find a great flight deal to Portugal by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
On this week's Just the Tip we share 5 of our sneakiest tricks to lowering the price of flights. These tips has saved us hundreds of dollars on individual flights, with a little extra research you can save a ton of money too!
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Perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, Positano is the crown jewel of Italy’s Amalfi Coast. We’ll walk you through its pastel-colored houses on the hillside, luxury chic boutiques, sunny beaches, and winding cobblestone streets, and recommend the best beach clubs, cooking classes, restaurants, and nightlife in town.
Positano Tips in this Episode:
How to get to Positano, Italy (book your train through RailEurope)
Where to stay in Positano
Tips for getting into and around Positano
Our top recommended hotels in Positano
Albergo Miramare - great location with a beautiful ocean view restaurant
Le Sirenuse - great location, swanky interior
Nino’s in Nochelle (where we stayed) - affordable and had a great view but hard to get to and from
Or check out these hotels in Positano
Check out our top picks for Positano Activities & Tours on Viator for all activities we recommend and even some that we wanted to do but couldn't get to.
Looking for more Italian inspiration? Check out our episodes on Rome and Florence.
Find a great flight deal to Italy by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
We’re sharing tips to take that trip your company is paying for and use it as an opportunity to explore more of a new destination, enjoy experiences you might not pay for if you were going on your own, maximize points for your personal travel, and make the most out of the hotel your company is paying for.
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Planning a trip to Switzerland? In this episode, we’ll walk you through the ultimate 8-day Switzerland itinerary, filled with must-see sights, local highlights, and tips to maximize your adventure. Discover Interlaken’s stunning landscapes, immerse yourself in the alpine magic of Zermatt, and soak in the history and charm of Lucerne. Perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned travelers looking for inspiration, this guide is your key to experiencing Switzerland at its best.
Check out our Switzerland Itineraries: 8 Day Summer Switzerland Itinerary, 4 days in Interlaken, 2 days in Zermatt, & 2 days Lucerne
Switzerland Tips & Must Visit Places Episode Highlights:
Top of Europe: Jungfraujoch
Staubbach Falls- Interlaken
Lauterbrunnen- Interlaken
Oeschinensee Lake Hike- Interlaken
Gornergrat Railway - Zermatt
Riffelsee - Riffelberg via Gornergrat Hike- Zermatt
Lion Monument- Lucerne,
Musegg Wall- Lucerne
Stoos Ridge Hike- Lucerne
Our top recommended Hotels in Bern, Switzerland
If these hotels are fully booked, you can also check out other great hotel options in Bern.
Check out our Switzerland Activities & Tours, featuring the top experiences we recommend, plus a few we couldn’t fit in but are worth adding to your own itinerary.
Find a great flight deal to Switzerland by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
We’re taking you to the newest wellness escape in Central Texas. Ottine Mineral Springs is about an hour drive from Austin ultimate day and makes a great day trip destination to soak in mineral springs pools, relax in the sauna, lounge in comfy beds, and make a day of it with food and drinks.
We share a full walkthrough of the spa experience: reflexology pools, hot & cold plunges, barrel saunas, wood-fired pizzas, frozens, and tease what’s coming soon with yoga, sound baths, more pools, and a hotel!
Where to stay in Gonzales, TX: Belle Oaks Inn, a gorgeous manor property and The Alcalade, a classic stay.
Find a great flight deal to a major Texas city near Ottine by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and watching the daily flight deals (points & cash) that are emailed directly to you! Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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We’re taking you to the incredible country of Georgia, one of the most underrated countries in the world where wine, history, and culture come together in the most magical way in the main city of Tbilisi and beyond. We explore historic spas, wine baths, local nightlife, cultural sites, natural wonders in the Caucasus Mountains.
We also dive deep into our experience at WINECAST, a five-day festival celebrating cinema, wine, and Georgian culture with film screenings, wine tastings and masterclasses, live music, and more!
Highlights of Georgia:
The rich history of Georgia as the birthplace of wine 🍇
Exploring Tbilisi’s food, art, nightlife, and vibrant energy
Day trip to Mtskheta: Jvari Monastery & Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
Georgia’s Balneological Spa - sulfur and wine bath experiences
The magic of WINECAST Festival 2025 – wine, cinema, and culture
Supra dining traditions & the role of the Tamada (toastmaster)
Visiting Kazbeggi & Gergeti Trinity Church in the Caucasus Mountains
Supra feast with a local winemaker and a once-in-a-lifetime wine tasting
If you want a great overview of Georgia, check out Dr. Matthew Horkey’s premier film about the country and its culture here: A journey through GEORGIA ‘The Cradle of WINE’
Hotels in Tbilisi, Georgia we recommend are the Radisson Blu Tbilisi (we stayed here and loved it!) or Mercure Tbilisi Old Town. If those are booked you can search Tbilisi hotels on Trip Advisor.
Check out our Tbilisi Activities & Tours on Viator for all day trips, wine tastings, city tours, and airport transfers that we recommend.
Find a great flight deal to Tbilisi by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
We’re taking you along to see the best of Liechtenstein in just one day. We’ll start the sightseeing journey at the Liechtenstein Center, wander through Vaduz’s Städtle, walk the cobblestone streets, see the Cathedral of St. Florin, and take in the atmosphere by the Government and Parliament buildings, and iconic Ruhende Frau sculpture by Fernando Botero.
If you want to take this exact trip, you can download our 1 day Liechtenstein Itinerary!
Highlights from this episode include:
Our top recommended hotels in Lichtenstein are Giessen Hotel & Coffeehouse, Hotel Schatzmann, or check out other highly rated hotels in Liechtenstein
Things to pack while visiting Lichtenstein:
Find a great flight deals to Liechtenstein by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!
We're sharing 10 amazing places you have to visit in Arizona! Arizona has impressive landscapes that allow you to immerse yourself in nature. It's a gorgeous state with healing and incredibly special energy.
Download our Arizona national parks road trip itinerary and our Grand Canyon/Page road trip itinerary to see many of these places in one trip.
Here are 10 places we love and recommendations we have on each:
Sedona:
Saguaro National Park
Petrified Forest National Park
Lake Havasu
Scottsdale
Grand Canyon National Park
Monument Valley
Page
Bullhead City
Havasupai Falls
In this episode we mentioned ice cleat crampons, these are the ones we recommend.
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Welcome to Lucerne Switzerland’s fairytale town where medieval charm meets alpine beauty. Set along a stunning lake and surrounded by mountains, Lucerne offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure.
In this guide, we cover top sights like Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, and the colorful Old Town, along with tips for exploring the Musegg Wall, taking scenic hikes, and enjoying lakeside strolls. You'll also find practical travel tips on packing, transportation, and budget-friendly options plus a quick overview of our day trip to the Stoos Ridge Hike.
Take this exact same trip, download our 2-day Lucerne itinerary and let us do all the planning for you!
Highlights from this trip include:
How to get to Lucerne
Lake Lucerne
City Highlights in Lucerne:
Chapel Bridge & Watertower
Lucerne Old Town
Lucerne Lion Monument
Musegg Wall
Lucerne Churches
Stoos Ridge Hike
Our top recommended hotels in Lucerne: Des Alpes Luzern, Hotel de la Paix and Hotel des Balances
Purchase an E-Sim to have cellular data on the go.
Check out our Switzerland Activities and Tours for all activities we recommend and even some that we wanted to do but couldn't get to.
Things to pack while visiting Lucerne:
Hat
Find a great flight deal to Switzerland by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!