Visiting Amman, Jordan: Street Markets, Luxury Stays, and Local Flavours

Today we’re heading to the lowest place on Earth, the Dead Sea in Jordan. Known for its extreme salinity, healing mud, and dramatic landscapes, it’s a place where visitors come to float, rejuvenate, and connect with history. Joining hosts David Brodie and award-winning travel writer Tim Johnson, as they explore what makes this destination so unique.We’ll cover:Getting There – The short drive from Amman to the Dead Sea and why it’s worth more than just a day trip.Where to Stay – Insights into luxury resorts like the Dead Sea Marriott Resort and Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, both offering pools, spas, and unforgettable views.Floating Experience – What it’s like to “swim” in the Dead Sea, why you can’t sink, and the famous mud treatments that draw travelers from all over the world.Nearby Highlights – A visit to Bethany Beyond Jordan, believed to be the baptism site of Jesus, and one of the most significant biblical landmarks in the region.Food & Flavors – From traditional mezes to standout dining, including Sufra in Amman and a culinary gem in Madaba, Carib House, redefining Jordanian cuisine with creative twists.The Dead Sea isn’t just a bucket-list float – it’s an immersive travel experience blending relaxation, history, and culture.Note: Some of the above links are affiliate links. By booking your hotels and activities through them there is no additional cost, but a small portion of your booking goes to help support this podcast.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 PodcastCheck 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

In this episode of Travel in 10, David and Tim dive into the vibrant capital of Jordan: Amman. Often described as a city like an onion — the more layers you peel, the more you uncover — Amman offers a blend of ancient history, buzzing modern neighborhoods, and exceptional hospitality that makes every visit feel both surprising and welcoming.Highlights from this EpisodeFirst Impressions of AmmanDavid shares his recent visit, arriving on the inaugural nonstop Royal Jordanian flight from Washington, D.C.Both hosts reflect on Amman as a calm, welcoming modern city Where to Stay in AmmanSt. Regis Amman – A classic luxury choice with sweeping city views, one of the best rooftop bars in town, and a unique spa where guests can reserve private spa suites with steam rooms and pools at no extra cost.W Amman – A stylish, centrally located hotel near the city’s top restaurants and shops. Notable for “The Canyon,” an art installation evoking Petra, and a lively pool scene.Fairmont Amman – A polished luxury property with a standout spa (though spa pool access requires booking treatments).Soho Midtown – A new boutique option in a trendy district filled with art galleries and cafés, perfect for travelers seeking a stylish, lower-cost base.What to Do in AmmanWander the city’s souks and markets, especially around the Roman amphitheater, which stays lively well into the night.Explore Rainbow Street for indie theater, live music, and nightlife.Discover Jabal Amman, home to street art, artisan shops like the J.O. Shop, and cultural tours.Take a guided Underground Amman street art tour with local artists to see the city from a creative perspective.Visit the Citadel, a hilltop archaeological site with Bronze Age, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic layers of history.Food & Dining ExperiencesHashem – A legendary falafel spot beloved by locals (and even the King of Jordan).Sufra – A must-visit on Rainbow Street for traditional Jordanian cuisine in a historic setting.Iraq Al-Amir Women’s Association – Offers immersive cooking classes where visitors prepare Jordanian meals alongside local women while supporting a sustainable community project.Jordan also surprises with a small but excellent wine scene and a growing specialty coffee culture.Can’t MissSweifieh Village – A trendy new district with cool restaurants, an ice cream favorite (Gerard Ice Cream), and a speakeasy-style bowling spot called the Bowl Room.Note: Some links above are affiliate links. By booking or visiting through them, you...

Travel in 10: Hosts: David Brodie and Tim JohnsonLocation: Berlin, GermanyIn this special bonus episode, David and Tim dedicate the full show to one of the most iconic hotels in the world and the best-known property in Germany — the Hotel Adlon Kempinski in Berlin. From royal beginnings to modern-day luxury, the Adlon’s history and service make it a destination in its own right.Tim shares insights from his most recent stay, what makes the hotel a German cultural landmark, and why it’s worth adding to your travel bucket list.In This EpisodeHistory and LegacyFounded in the late 19th century with the support of Kaiser Wilhelm to rival Europe’s great hotelsFirst in Germany with modern luxuries like electricity, elevators, and hot waterA storied past including destruction during WWII and careful reconstructionCultural fame in Germany, including as the setting of the TV drama Hotel AdlonNotable MomentsVisits from royalty, heads of state, and celebritiesThe infamous Michael Jackson balcony incident at the Presidential SuiteGuest ExperienceTraditional elegance with suites offering Brandenburg Gate viewsThe expanded Zion Spa, Berlin’s largest, featuring saunas, a lap pool, and jacuzzisExceptional concierge service, including the long-serving head concierge with stories from decades at the AdlonDiningTwo Michelin star restaurant Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer serving multi-course French cuisine with expert wine pairings from one of Germany’s top sommeliersSmall, intimate dining space requiring advance bookingInsider TipsTake time to speak with the concierge or the “ladies and gentlemen in red” for behind-the-scenes storiesPlan for at least one relaxed day at the hotel to enjoy the spa, public spaces, and fine diningLocation allows you to walk directly to the Brandenburg Gate and TiergartenSubscribe to Travel in 10 on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast app.Note: Some links mentioned may be affiliate links. Using them to book comes at no extra cost to you and helps support this podcast.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 PodcastCheck 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

In this second episode on Berlin, David and Tim shift focus from Cold War landmarks to the practical side of exploring Germany's capital. From where to stay and what to eat to the best way to get around the city, this episode gives you everything you need to plan your own Berlin adventure.In This EpisodeArrival and Getting AroundWhy Berlin may be the most accessible city in the worldHow to use the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and trams with easeTips for traveling from the airport or international train stationsWhere to StayHotel Adlon Kempinski: Berlin’s most famous hotel, with views of the Brandenburg GateHotel Bristol: Elegant and well-located, part of the Kempinski familyLindner Hotel: A solid mid-range option now partnered with HyattHampton Inn West Berlin: Affordable, clean, and close to public transitWhat to EatCurrywurst: A must-try Berlin street food, especially at the Two Bears food truck near OstbahnhofSchnitzel: Try the generous portions at Felix AustriaFine Dining: Michelin-starred dining at Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer in the Hotel AdlonHidden GemKulturbrauerei: A former brewery turned cultural complex with bars, restaurants, and a free museum about daily life in East GermanyWhy ListenWhether you're planning your first visit to Berlin or returning for a deeper dive, this episode offers helpful tips and real-world travel insights. From luxury hotels to street food, you’ll hear firsthand recommendations from experienced travel journalists who know the city well.Next Episode: A full breakdown of Tim’s stay at the Hotel Adlon Kempinski – one of his favorite hotels in the world.Subscribe to Travel in 10 on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast app.Note: Some links mentioned may be affiliate links. Using them to book comes at no extra cost to you and helps support this podcast.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 PodcastCheck 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

Berlin is a city like no other. From Cold War watchtowers and Prussian palaces to punk clubs and street art-covered sections of the Berlin Wall, this episode dives into one of Europe's most dynamic capitals. David and Tim explore how the city’s past and present intersect, offering a unique travel experience full of culture, complexity, and creativity.In This EpisodeBerlin Then and Now: The story of a once-divided city reunitedCold War Landmarks: Visiting Checkpoint Charlie, the Palace of Tears, and the East Side GalleryIconic Sites:Brandenburg GateThe ReichstagTiergarten ParkHidden Gems in East Berlin:Karl-Marx-Allee's preserved Soviet-era architectureTränenpalast Museum and its powerful historyEast Side Gallery's open-air art and riverfrontWhat makes Berlin feel youthful, energetic, and unlike anywhere else in GermanyWhy Tim keeps returning to the city, and how his first impression as a backpacker changed over timeWhy ListenWhether you're a Cold War history buff, a first-time visitor, or a seasoned traveler returning to Berlin, this episode offers practical insights and thoughtful reflections on what makes the city worth exploring in depth.Next Episode: Part 2 will cover the best places to eat and stay in Berlin, plus tips on how to navigate the city like a local.Note: Some of the above links may be affiliate links. Booking through them comes at no additional cost to you but helps support the production of this podcast.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 PodcastCheck 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

In part two, David and Tim dive into the practicalities of a Lisbon trip: where to eat, where to stay, and how to get around. Plus, they share their “Can’t Miss” Lisbon experiences.🚍 Getting AroundAffordable Ubers, historic trams, and why downhill walking is key🍴 Where to EatTime Out Market – Ideal for first-timers to sample Portuguese dishesLX Factory’s Cantina – Elevated Portuguese “worker food” in an industrial-chic spaceCura at Four Seasons Ritz – A Michelin-starred tasting menu with local ingredients🛏️ Where to StayFour Seasons Hotel Ritz – Grand, historic, with a rooftop running track and world-class spaTivoli Avenida Liberdade – Chic, central, and ideal for rooftop drinksCorpo Santo Historical Hotel – A 5-star gem with free walking tours, snacks, and even an ice cream machine!🌊 Day Trip “Can’t Misses”Sintra – A fairy-tale palace town with UNESCO status and romantic architectureCascais – A charming beach town with 17 different coves and a rich royal historyPastéis de Belém – The gold standard of custard tarts (get them hot from the oven!)Send us your travel questions and suggestions! We love to feature listener ideas—like last week’s Galápagos trip planning segment.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voyascapemediaWatch travel features on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@voyascapeExplore more destinations at: https://www.voyascape.comNote: Some future links may be affiliate links. If you book through them, it supports the podcast at no extra cost to you.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 PodcastCheck 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

Lisbon: Cobblestones, Culture, and Coastal CharmIn this week’s episode of Travel in 10, David Brodie and travel writer Tim Johnson head to one of Europe’s most underrated capitals—Lisbon. While it might not be top of mind for a first or even second trip to Europe, Portugal’s seaside capital rewards travelers who love slow discovery, local flavour, and old-world charm mixed with modern energy.In This Episode:Why Lisbon is a City That Reveals Itself SlowlyIt may not have the landmark checklist of Paris or Rome, but Lisbon offers a unique rhythm. Cobblestone streets, pastel buildings, tiled façades, and a coastal breeze make it a place to explore without an agenda.Must-Visit Sites & NeighborhoodsCastelo de São Jorge: Hilltop castle with panoramic city views and live Fado performancesExpo 98 Site & Oceanarium: A modern contrast to the historic core—great for families, cycling, and architecture buffsBelém Tower: 16th-century ceremonial gateway, now a relaxed riverfront gathering spot with music and street foodBaixa & Barrio Alto: The bohemian heart of the city, with vintage shops, music venues, bookshops, and endless places to explore on footFado: Portugal’s Melancholic SoundtrackFado, the traditional Portuguese music filled with emotion and longing, is everywhere in Lisbon—especially in castle courtyards and cozy venues. Tim gives his honest take (not for every mood), while David highlights how it captures the soul of the city.Take the TramHop on Tram 15 for a scenic ride along the Tagus River toward Belém—passing Christ the King, Lisbon’s answer to Rio’s Christ the Redeemer, and soaking in sweeping water views.Elevador de Santa JustaAn iconic 1902 neo-Gothic elevator connecting Lisbon’s lower and upper old towns. Come for the convenience, stay for the skyline views (especially at night when it's lit up).Final Thoughts:Lisbon isn’t a city that tries to impress with immediate grandeur—it’s a place that gets under your skin the longer you stay. From its layered history to its dynamic neighborhoods and warm affordability, it’s a European capital you’ll want to revisit again and again.Resources & More:Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voyascapemediaWatch travel features on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@voyascapeExplore more destinations at: https://www.voyascape.comNote: Some future links may be affiliate links. If you book through them, it supports the podcast at no extra cost to you.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 PodcastCheck 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

In this special bonus episode we're headed to Oregon with the our friends the hosts of the Hidden Trails of Oregon Podcast.“It’s part action movie, part rock show blurring into the superbowl. It feels modern, but bull riding itself goes back to the bronze age. And that’s true for rodeo contests in general: bull riding, barrel racing or wild cow milking, they’re all based on tradition, and in keeping those traditions alive.‘Let ‘Er Buck’ makes a lot of sense from the back of a bull. But as we find out, it’s much more than a rodeo shout: it’s a way of life.”We’re leaping headfirst into the rodeo to end all rodeos, the 115 year-old Pendleton Roundup! In this episode, host Aaron Millar tests his mettle on a massive mechanical hog, before climbing into the stands for a (literally) explosive ‘Xtreme Bulls’ finale. We’ll lean over the bucking chutes and get clobbered by dirt flung from bronco hooves. But the roundup isn’t all spectacle, it’s also about family and tradition. We’ll step back in time to learn about the history of the event while sipping whiskey in the notorious ‘Let ‘er Buck’ room. Stories of champions, princesses, suicide-racers and steer-wrestlers wait around every corner.We’ll meet a generational indigenous horse relay racing team, hand them microphones, and listen in on their insane bare-back bid for victory. And through it all explore the western ties that bring all these groups to rodeo together each September.LET ‘ER BUCK!Remember you can see all of this yourself. Go to PendletonRoundup.com for details and take our advice: book early!Plan your next Oregon adventure at TravelOregon.com and you can find the full Hidden Trails of Oregon Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.Thank you to all guests featured on the show: Toni Minthorn, Scott and Dylan Abramson, Pat Nogle and Butch Knowles A special thank you to Greg and Petra for showing us such a great time, we can’t wait to come back. Brian Thacker led our pre-production, Charles Tyrie assisted on audio editing, and the episode was recorded by Jason Paton who also wrote and co-produced along with host Aaron Millar.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 PodcastCheck 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

In the second part of our Rome series, Travel in 10 host David Brodie reconnects with award-winning travel writer Tim Johnson, who shares fresh insights from his recent visit to the Italian capital. From smart tips on navigating the city to unforgettable pasta spots and hotel recommendations, this episode focuses on the practicalities of planning a great first trip to Rome—especially if you want to avoid the crowds, find the perfect meal, and stay somewhere memorable.In This Episode:Arriving in Rome: What to KnowFiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) Airport is located outside the city—expect a 45+ minute transferPublic transit works well but doesn’t reach everywhere due to underground ruinsUber operates as a taxi-hailing service; local taxis are plentifulDon’t let transit logistics ruin your day—sometimes a cab is worth itWhen to VisitMay and September are ideal: fewer crowds, great weatherBe mindful of Italian holidays—some local businesses may close in AugustRome is always busy, but some shoulder-season planning can ease the experienceWhere to Eat: Rome’s Food SceneTrastevere: A bohemian neighborhood beyond the river, full of narrow laneways and packed with locals and hidden gems50 Kalò di Ciro Salvo: Neapolitan-style pizza, named one of Italy’s best by The New York TimesTrattoria della Stampa: Small, atmospheric Roman eatery known for its classic pastas: carbonara, cacio e pepe, and amatriciana. Affordable and beloved by locals—reserve ahead!Where to StayHotel Hassler: Iconic, family-owned hotel at the top of the Spanish Steps with panoramic views of the Vatican and central RomeThe Edition Rome: Sleek, modern, design-forward luxurySt. Regis Rome: Classic elegance with historic character and excellent serviceWaldorf Astoria Rome (Rome Cavalieri): A hillside retreat with resort vibes—perfect for escaping the city buzzCan’t-Miss Hidden GemsBasilica Santa Maria del Popolo: A lesser-known church with two original Caravaggio masterpieces. Open limited hours. Bring a €2 coin to light up the artwork.Insider Tip: Ask locals—concierges, tour guides, shopkeepers—for under-the-radar finds. Rome has layers of history and culture waiting to be uncovered.Explore more at: https://www.voyascape.comNext up: We head to Lisbon, Portugal, followed by a special guest episode from Paris with Oliver Gee of The Earful Tower. Stay tuned—and don’t forget to send us your travel questions and destination requests.Note: Some links may be affiliate links. If you book through them, there’s no added cost to you, but it helps support the podcast. Thanks!Mentioned in this episode:Check...

In this first of two special episodes on Rome, Italy, hosts David Brodie & Tim Johnson explore the Eternal City as it stands in 2025—where timeless beauty meets the buzz of modern travel. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, and from hilltop gardens to hidden sovereign territories, this episode offers an insightful and entertaining look at how to make the most of your time in Rome, especially if you're visiting during peak season.In This Episode:Is Rome Worth Visiting in High Season?Why the crowds and heat are worth it—and how to stay cool with tips like filling up at the city’s free nasoni fountains.Iconic RomeColosseum: Why booking ahead and joining a guided tour transforms your experienceTrevi Fountain & Spanish Steps: Expect crowds, but don’t skip them—coin tosses and city views awaitVatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: Must-see masterpieces—book timed tickets in advanceSt. Peter’s Basilica: No ticket required, but take time to explore quieter corners for moments of peaceKeykeeper Tour Tip: Be the first inside the Vatican by joining a private early-morning opening tourOff-the-Beaten-Path HighlightsAccess Italy’s Golf Cart Tour: A customizable and stylish way to explore the city’s hidden gemsGiancarlos Beneditti Corcus: A local artist painting in the laneways near Piazza NavonaVilla Borghese Gardens: Shady paths, scenic views, and quiet cafés—perfect for escaping the crowdsKnights of St. John (Sovereign Military Order of Malta): A quirky micro-nation in Rome with its own flag, passports, and even UN observer statusHow Many Countries Can You Visit in a Day?Rome lets you check off three countries in a single day—Italy, Vatican City, and (unofficially) the Sovereign Military Order of MaltaFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voyascapemediaWatch more travel content on our Voyascape YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@voyascapeDiscover more travel tips at https://www.voyascape.comStay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll cover where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around the Eternal City.Note: Some upcoming links may be affiliate links. If you book using them, there's no additional cost, but a small portion helps support this podcast. Grazie!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 PodcastCheck 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