In this episode of the Travel Agents Podcast, hosts Brian and Will discuss their recent experiences in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. They highlight Punta Cana's beautiful all-inclusive resorts, stunning beaches, and excellent service. Brian shares his first visit to Punta Cana, despite it being a top seller at Chima Travel for years. They discuss the features of the three resorts Brian stayed at: family-friendly Dreams Onyx with its epic pool, romantic adults-only Secrets Tides, and jungle-like Dreams Flora.
In this episode we talk about the importance of resort security, advising listeners to stay on the resort unless on a guided excursion. Noting that while international cuisine at the resorts can be hit or miss, local Dominican dishes like "mangú" and fresh fruits are excellent. Our key travel tips include learning basic Spanish phrases, completing the Punta Cana entry and exit form beforehand, and considering travel insurance, especially during hurricane season.
We want to assure our listeners that the turmoil in Haiti has not significantly affected the Dominican Republic, which maintains high security to ensure tourist safety. Brian and Will highly recommend visiting Punta Cana for its memorable experiences, and they encourage listeners to reach out with questions or comments. For more information on planning your trip, check out the all-inclusive packages at Chima Travel.
In our first episode of Travel Talk, Brian and Will talk about all you need to know about European trains. How early should you arrive at the station? What's the difference between international trains and regional trains? What do I do with my luggage? How to protect yourself from scams, and so much more!
Check out our blog for a write-up of this episode.
Want to ask us questions? Reach out to us using the link in the description and we will record an episode answering your questions!
Are you looking for a travel agent? We help plan trips all over the world! Reach out to us at our travel agency, Chima Travel.
Tracing your family roots back to Italian towns and discovering how a $12 Aperol Spritz can signal an expensive restaurant is a rare experience.
In this episode, Brian and Will are joined by special guest Nick Finelli of Finelli Ironworks. They explore what it's like to uncover your family heritage in a foreign country, with a focus on Italy.
Join us as we chat with Nick about what makes Italy so special, why its food is considered the best in the world, and the significance of Italian culture.
Book a trip to Italy with our travel agency.
Brace yourselves, because we're going on a wild ride across the heart of West Africa, in a country that buzzes with rhythm, color, and sheer joie de vivre - yes, we're heading to Senegal!
We'll kick things off in the busy streets of Dakar. Imagine the beat of sabar drums, the flurry of colorful fabrics in bustling markets, and the seductive aroma of local cuisine wafting through the air. Dakar is more than a city; it's a sensory fiesta!
Then, hold onto your hats as we journey into the serene Sine-Saloum Delta, where rivers meet the sea amidst a labyrinth of mangroves. And let's not forget Lake Retba, or as the Senegalese like to call it, the 'Lake of Liquid Bubblegum' – a body of water that’s actually pink!
We also turn back the hands of time and get a bit emotional as we visit the moving House of Slaves on Gorée Island and stroll through the time-worn streets of Saint-Louis, a city frozen in a bygone era.
Fear not, we're not navigating this journey solo. On today's episode of The Travel Agents, we are joined by special guest Dr. Joseph Underwood. Dr. Underwood is a professor of African Art History at Kent State University.
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Brunei is a small country located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It is a sovereign state that is ruled by a monarchy and has a population of around 430,000 people. The country is known for its wealth and opulence, as it has large reserves of oil and natural gas which contribute significantly to its economy.
Despite its small size, Brunei has a lot to offer visitors. The country is home to stunning natural landscapes, including rainforests, mountains, and beaches. There are also several cultural and historical sites to visit, such as the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the Royal Regalia Museum, and the Jerudong Park Playground.
In terms of cuisine, Brunei is known for its delicious seafood, particularly its grilled and spicy dishes. The country is also home to a number of unique festivals and events, including the annual Brunei Food Festival and the Kembara Kitchen food truck festival.
Overall, Brunei is a fascinating destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities. It is a great destination for travelers who are interested in exploring new cultures and experiencing something different.
Joined by the seasoned traveler and fellow podcaster James Hammond from Winging It Travel Podcast, The Travel Agents talk all about experiencing Japan.
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Are you dreaming of visiting the Land of the Rising Sun? In this episode, we take a journey through the beautiful and culturally rich country of Japan. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto, we explore the top destinations and hidden gems this amazing country has to offer. Along the way, we'll share insider tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to navigate this unique and fascinating culture. Join us as we discover the wonders of Japan on this travel adventure. Want to climb Mt. Fuji? You'll want to make sure to tune into this episode for an important tip!
Joined by the seasoned traveler and fellow podcaster James Hammond from Winging It Travel Podcast, The Travel Agents talk all about experiencing Japan.
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Morocco is a land of stunning contrasts and captivating beauty, with a rich and vibrant culture that is deeply rooted in its history and traditions. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the serene deserts of the Sahara, this North African country offers a wealth of exciting experiences for travelers.
In Morocco, you can explore ancient medinas and marvel at the intricate tile work and architectural beauty of historic mosques and palaces. You can wander through colorful markets filled with spices, fabrics, and other treasures, or haggle with merchants in the bustling souks. You can also take a camel ride through the dunes of the Sahara, or climb to the top of the Atlas Mountains for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to its natural wonders, Morocco is also known for its delicious cuisine, which blends African, Arabic, and European influences. You can savor the flavors of tangy tagines, savory couscous, and spicy harira soup, or sample sweet pastries and fresh-squeezed juices from local vendors. The country is also famous for its music and dance, with lively performances of traditional Gnawa music and hypnotic belly dancing.
With its stunning landscapes, fascinating culture, and rich history, Morocco is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast.
Joining us on the podcast is our dear friend, and Morocco Expert, Azdean whom you can learn more about on his podcast Destination Morocco.
Want to book a tour with his company check out his website here.
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Founded in the 1870s, Cedar Point has long been a staple of Sandusky, Ohio. But is it worth visiting?
A detour to Cedar Point is a must for those traveling to Detroit or Cleveland. Famous due to its record breaking roller coasters, Cedar Point attracts visitors from all over the world.
Check out Millenium Force, one of the tallest coasters in the world.
Going with family? Cedar Point has a designated area just for kids, complete with surprises from the characters of Peanuts.
With nearly 2 dozen roller coasters, Cedar Point is a staple for all Ohioans and you should check it out too. Check out the website here.
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How do travel agents plan their own trips? Brian details how he began preparation for his trip that spans 3 continents. (Don't worry, we will have episodes on these countries as well)
But where do you start? Do travel agents use their resources to book trips for themselves? Do they book directly from the source? What sort of insight might a travel agent have when planning a trip?
I'll give you a hint...one tip revolves around Trip Advisor.
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While in college, Brian had an opportunity to work at Disneyland for 9 months while in the Disney College program.
Are you thinking of doing the same? Check out the episode to see why Brian says it was a vital part of his travel agent and business owner education.
Or maybe you are just curious to get a peak behind the curtain, we got it all in this episode.
Learn more about the College Program here
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In the latest episode in an ongoing New England series, Will and Brian talk about Maine. Perhaps the most underrated state in the US, Maine is a great state to explore.
Known for its incredible shellfish, lighthouses, and moose, there's much more to Maine than a Steven King novel.
Love to hike and spend time in the great outdoors? Check out Acadia National Park, one of the coolest national parks in the United States.
Maybe you want to check out a sleepy seaside town? We recommend Kennebunkport. If it's good enough for a president, it's good enough for us.
Check out the scenic ocean-side drive on route 101 where you'll drive by some of Maine's most famous lighthouses, beaches, and homes.
Learn about that and more, in this episode of The Travel Agents.
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Famous for being the location of the Salem Witch Trials, more than half a million people flock to the sleepy Massachusetts town each October for Halloween.
But...
Is it worth visiting? If you ask a local, they might say no. However, we disagree. Find out why on this episode of The Travel Agents.
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The second city in our New England series, Providence is the biggest city in the smallest state in the US, Rhode Island. But is it worth checking out? In our opinion, absolutely. If you are in the New England area you have to check out the city of Providence.
Located under an hour from downtown Boston, Providence boasts a rich history and lots of incredible art. Make sure to go during the popular festival known as WaterFire. You won't regret your time.
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Will lived in Boston for nearly half a year, and in that time became a massive fan of Beantown. Famous for its incredible sports, importance in American History, and rich cuisine. Boston is a city that every American should visit.
Follow the Freedom Trail and see some of the most important landmarks of the Revolution, grab some Clam Chowder in one of Boston's famous seafood restaurants, or check out the Italian neighborhood known as The Northend. Boston is one of America's best cities, listen to our episode to find out why.
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Comprised of Washington, Oregon, and parts of Idaho, the Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful regions in the United States. Still, it can be very overwhelming when choosing what to do on your trip there. That's why we chose 10 of our favorite places for you to check out while planning your trip to one of the most unique areas in the US.
Want to learn about Seattle? Check out our episode on the city here
Want to learn about Portland? Check out our episode on the city here
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Portland is home to great beers, coffee, donuts, and ice cream. It's also known for being an amazing place for vegan cuisine and hiking opportunities.
But...
Should you go?
Portland has been in the news a lot lately in the last 5 years, in this episode, Will & Brian discuss their experience in the city along with Portland native and friend, Peter.
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Known for Starbucks, Hipsters, and Microsoft, Seattle has been one of the most popular cities in the United States for quite some time. But is it really worth all the hype?
In this episode, Will goes into detail on his experience living in Seattle for nearly a year. The Travel Agents talk about what they liked about the city, and what they didn't like.
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We get this question ALL the time. What's the trick to getting cheap flights? Well, the truth is, there are times you just can't.
However, we've been in the industry for a while and have a few tips to help you out. Check out the episode now to learn how you might score cheap flights for your next vacation.
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Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas isn't your average cruise ship. This floating city has amenities and attractions for people of all ages.
Take a trip down to Royal Caribbean's very own private island, CoCo Cay. Experience North America's tallest waterslide (as of recording), grab a drink and take in the Caribbean breeze.
Hear our thoughts on the ship, and what it's like for a first-time cruiser.
Want to learn what cruising on a big ship is like? Check out this episode of The Travel Agents.
THIS EPISODE IS NOT SPONSORED
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We all thought that traveling would be much easier once Covid calmed down. Well, that was a lie.
Why is travel SO crazy right now?
Flight cancellations, closures, mixed Covid policies, things are just weird. So how do we travel without headaches?
Seriously, tell us...
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Brian and Will are joined by Dawn Barclay, an accomplished author, and serial traveler. Dawn has recently written the book "Traveling Different" a book jam-packed with travel strategies for parents with children on the autism spectrum.
Traveling in peace is something that we often take for granted, but children on the spectrum have a hard time traveling due to the overwhelming sensory overload.
This episode aims to shine a light on this issue and educate our listeners that it is possible to travel with children on the spectrum. If you would like to learn more, please check out Dawn's book here.
This episode is not sponsored.
If you would like to join us on the podcast or send us a message you can contact us at thetravelagentsakron@gmail.com
It's good to be back.
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In the Travel Agents Season 1 Finale, Brian and Will discuss 12 travel items that you need for every trip. Some are obvious, some you might never have heard of.
What item do you think is a must for every trip?
What was your favorite episode of the season?
The Travel Agents will be back in August 2022.
This episode is all about the Holy Land, Israel. Brian and Will detail their experience leading a church group through Isreal. With visits to Tel Aviv, Tiberias, The Dead Sea, The Sea of Gallilee, and Jerusalem. Visit sites like the Temple Mount, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Wailing Wall.
Our trip follows the footsteps of Jesus, from his birth in Bethlehem to his first ministry in the area of Galilee and finally to the site of his crucifixion.
Is Israel safe? How often is it attacked? Should you go? These all are important questions that The Travel Agents answer in this episode.
In this episode of The Travel Agents, Brian talks all about what his life was like while living in China as an American for an entire year. After being offered an opportunity to speak English in the country, Brian and his brother Nick decide to live in the Land of the Red Dragon and get a first-hand experience on what life is like on the other side of the planet.
Is the water safe to drink? What kind of food do Chinese people really eat? What's the average day for a person living in China? Find out in this episode of, The Travel Agents.
Have you ever wondered what it's like to fly international business class? What does it cost? How much more leg room do I get? Can I lay down and sleep? In this episode, Brian is going to discuss his experience on International Business class flights and why it's actually worth the cost.
Planning a trip to the Dominican Republic: Secrets Tides, Dreams Onyx, Riu Republica
1:25:29
All You Need To Know About European Trains - Travel Talk #1
26:53
Tracing our Roots - Italy with Nick Finelli
1:13:54
Travel Senegal: Art & Culture with Dr. Joseph L. Underwood
55:58
Exploring the Hidden Gem of Southeast Asia: Brunei
22:19
Exploring the Land of the Rising Sun: A Travel Guide to Japan
1:10:02
Morocco: The Kingdom in North Africa
58:04
America's Roller Coast, Why You Need To Go To Cedar Point
48:40
How Do Travel Agents Plan Trips For Themselves?
31:37
What's it like Working at Disney?
24:41
Maine: The Most Underrated State in the US?
41:43
Halloween Special: Visiting Salem, Massachusetts on Halloween
14:55
Don't Sleep on Providence, Rhode Island
19:09
Every American Should Go To Boston
46:47
10 Great Places to See While in the Pacific Northwest
43:55
Should You Go To Portland, Oregon?
36:11
Is Seattle Worthy Of All The Hype?
44:37
Tips On Scoring Cheap Flights
35:26
Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas
32:16
Why Is Traveling Post-Covid So Crazy Right Now?
18:46
Traveling With Autism An Interview With Dawn Barclay
23:33
Season 1 Finale: 12 Travel Items You Need For Every Trip
30:02
Israel: Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus
1:06:38
Living Abroad in China as an American
1:05:12
What's It Like To Fly First Class?
16:34