Taste Toast Travel

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In this episode Tara sits down with Susie Stonefield, a Grief and Creativity Coach and artist based in Northern California, to share a remarkable travel story about how living abroad shaped her life.

Susie recounts moving to Florence, Italy in 1985 with her mother and 15-year-old brother for a year abroad—arriving with no housing arranged and no real plan. During the quiet, mosquito-filled days of August in Florence, the family escaped on a spontaneous cruise to Greece, where Susie unexpectedly fell in love with an Italian man (and shares a JUICY story yo...

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We’re so excited to introduce a brand-new format for the show: “A Taste Of..." 

In this series, we randomly draw a destination from a jar and take you on a city-focused deep dive… all from home. It’s part travel storytelling, part cultural exploration, and fully rooted in what we love most: food, drink, history, and the fascinating layers that make a place what it is. 

For our very first pick, John pulls Monte Carlo: the iconic district within the sovereign city-state of Monaco. 

In this episode, we explore...

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In this episode of Taste Toast Travel, Tara sits down with Lindsey Tague to share how she left corporate marketing after burnout and a 2018 layoff to build a freelance business and become a full-time digital nomad. Nearly six years later, she’s living what she calls a “slowmad” lifestyle across Latin America, currently based in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

We unpack the realities of remote work abroad, the freedom and flexibility of location independence, and what it really takes to design a life on your own terms.

We also dig into:<...

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In this episode of Taste Toast Travel, Tara chats with Brianna and Morgan, co-hosts of the Global Girlfriend Podcast, about their journeys into living abroad, expat life, and creating meaningful careers overseas.

They first met while teaching abroad in Albania, and from there, each followed a unique path around the world. Brianna shares how an international internship in Kenya led her to eventually move to Bali, while Morgan reflects on her deep connection to Spain and Argentina and how living abroad helped her gain clarity and confidence.

Together, they talk...

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Travel has a funny way of revealing who we really are. And when you’re traveling with a partner, that truth comes out fast!

In this episode of Taste Toast Travel, we’re:
✈️ Diving into how travel tests relationships and strengthens them over time.
✈️ Reflecting on our own experiences traveling together as a couple, living abroad early in our relationship, and now navigating trips as parents with a young child.
✈️ Sharing honest stories from the road, including moments of stress, miscommunication, and plans going sideways.
✈️ The teamwork, laughter, and deeper connectio...

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In this episode of Taste Toast Travel we’re joined by Kelly Forbes, a luxury travel expert with over 25 years in the travel industry and the founder of A'ARU Collective, a community-driven platform connecting travelers with sustainable luxury hotels around the world.

Kelly shares her journey through the luxury travel world, from her early career with a leading tour operator to senior sales and marketing roles with global hotel brands. She also reflects on how two years of backpacking reshaped her perspective on travel, deepened her cultural connections, and ultimately influenced her ap...

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In this episode of Taste Toast Travel, we’re sharing the travel mistakes we’ll never make again and the lessons we learned the hard way.

From overpacking and booking flights with way-too-tight connections to forgetting to check the weather, local holidays, and transportation logistics, we’re diving into the missteps that have shaped how we travel today. Fellow travelers, we have no doubt you'll relate to what we chat about in this episode!

We also talk about how our travel style has changed since traveling with our young daughter, and wh...

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In this episode of the Taste Toast Travel podcast we welcome Jenny Eden Berk, a certified eating psychology coach and culinary nutritionist, for a thoughtful conversation at the intersection of food, travel, and mindful living.

Jenny shares her personal journey from restrictive diet culture to a more holistic, intuitive eating approach, and how learning to listen to body cues can completely transform the way we experience food—both at home and while traveling. Together we explore what mindful and intuitive eating really look like in everyday life, especially when navigating new cuisines, cu...

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In this episode of Taste Toast Travel, we’re kicking off 2026 by sharing what’s ahead for us, both in our personal travels and on the podcast! We reflect on the fresh energy that comes with a new year, talk about how our travel mindset is evolving, and outline an exciting new direction for the show—including welcoming even more guests to share their unique travel stories from around the world.

We dive into our 2026 travel bucket list, highlighting destinations we’re especially excited about. From food-driven adventures to culturally rich experiences, we share...

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What does it really look like to quit a 9–5 job and move abroad?

In this episode of the Taste Toast Travel podcast, we’re joined by Anna Schild, who shares her journey from working a corporate job in the United States to backpacking around the world—and eventually building a life in Germany. 

From navigating visas and residency requirements to adjusting to everyday life as an American living in Europe, Anna offers an honest look at the challenges and rewards of long-term travel and relocation.

We talk about what it...

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New Year’s is one of the few moments the entire world seems to pause, but the way we welcome a new beginning looks completely different depending on where you are. 

In this solo episode, Tara takes you on a global journey through New Year’s traditions around the world, exploring how different cultures use food, ritual, symbolism, and community to let go of the old year and step into what’s next.

You’ll hear:
✈️ How New Year traditions reflect cultural values around luck, renewal, and community
✈️ Why food plays su...

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Is wine actually healthier than beer, seltzers, or cocktails, or is that just good marketing?

In this episode of Taste Toast Travel, we're diving into one of the most debated questions in food and drink culture: can wine fit into a healthy lifestyle? 

With John’s background as a Certified Sommelier and both of our experience working in the wine industry, we unpack the science, myths, and nuance behind wine’s so-called “health halo.”

We start by addressing the most important truth upfront: no alcohol is inherently healthy, and moder...

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Join us as we unpack major travel trends of 2025! We're digging into our 2025 year-in-review of food, drink, and travel trends, where we break down the biggest moments, shifts, and cultural movements that defined the year.

From tinned fish evolving into a luxury pantry staple to golden hour dining, to the rise of AI-powered travel itineraries and airline and travel updates (and much more), there's something in this episode for everyone!

Whether you love food, wine, fun drinks, or travel—or are just dreaming about your next adventure—this episode is a fu...

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In this episode, we're taking you on a global tour of December holiday traditions around the world—going far beyond the typical Christmas celebrations. 

From vibrant festivals to soulful rituals, this cultural deep dive explores how different countries honor light, community, and renewal during the winter season.

We break down each tradition with storytelling, history, and fun cultural insights—perfect for curious travelers and anyone who loves learning how the world celebrates. 

If you're looking for global holiday traditions, winter festivals, or simply fresh ways to connect with cultur...

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Today we're breaking down Condé Nast Traveler’s newest list of the best places to travel in Europe in 2026. From classic cities getting exciting new updates to underrated regions ready for their moment, this episode is packed with insider insights and inspiration for your next trip.

This list dives into the cultural highlights, new attractions, and major developments that make these cities top contenders for 2026 travel. You’ll also hear about emerging hotspots where sustainability, local culture, and immersive experiences take center stage.

Whether you're planning a European vacation, researching futur...

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In this episode, Tara sits down with Certified Health & Wellness Coach Tess Cheng for a deep dive into mindful traveling, staying healthy on the go, and finding the sweet spot between wellness and wanderlust. 

Tess has explored all seven continents, and she brings a wealth of real-world travel insight. From navigating jet lag and long-haul flights, to making thoughtful choices around food, hydration, and movement.

Together, we unpack:
✈️ How to stay aligned with your wellness routines while exploring new cultures
✈️ Practical strategies for healthy eating while traveling, even with unfa...

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In this episode we're exploring the fascinating world of the MICHELIN Guide, from its humble beginnings as a tire company’s travel booklet to the gold standard of global dining.

We break down how the MICHELIN Star system really works:
⭐️ What inspectors look for when awarding stars
⭐️ How restaurants can earn, maintain, or even lose their MICHELIN status
⭐️ The secretive process behind these coveted ratings

Plus, you’ll hear about some of the most iconic three-star MICHELIN restaurants across the globe, from Spain to Japan to California, and what makes e...

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In this episode of Taste Toast Travel Tara sits down with Grant Garry, a filmmaker who turned his personal journey of grief and morning coffee ritual into a powerful exploration of coffee culture. 

Grant shares how this morning coffee ritual evolved from a moment of solace into a passion for storytelling—ultimately leading him to create a coffee documentary that connects people through the universal love of a good cup.

From visiting a vertically integrated coffee farm in Guatemala to discovering the art behind different coffee brewing methods, Grant’s story...

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We're breaking down Hilton’s 2026 Global Travel Trends Report and uncovering what’s next for travelers around the world. From the growing craving for peaceful, restorative getaways to the rise of solo travel and digitally planned trips, we're exploring how our travel habits are evolving in exciting new ways.

Discover why quiet luxury vacations and slow travel are becoming top priorities, how family travel dynamics are shifting, and what these trends might mean for your own future adventures.

Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or planning your first big trip, this e...

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Let's explore one of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks: Alcatraz Island. Come with us on a night tour! 

As Bay Area locals, we're sharing our firsthand experience. From stepping onto the ferry to wandering through the eerie prison corridors—once occupied by infamous inmates like Al Capone and The Birdman.

We're taking you through:
✈️ A walk through of our experience
✈️ Recommendations on things we would do again, or things to avoid
✈️ Considerations to keep in mind if you or someone you know plan on going
✈️ A bit of the history...

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Today we're exploring Europe’s most haunted places! Continuing our spooky travel theme from last week’s episode on haunted places in the United States, we uncover the ghost stories, legends, and dark histories behind these iconic European landmarks.

We're digging into:
👻 The Tower of London in England
👻 Edinburgh Castle in Scotland
👻 The Paris Catacombs
👻 Bran Castle in Transylvania
👻 Poveglia Island in Venice

Join us on this journey through Europe’s most haunted destinations for tales of royal ghosts, phantom drummers, cursed islands, and mysterious underground tunnels—e...

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Spooky season is here! In this episode of Taste Toast Travel, we're uncovering the most haunted places in the United States just in time for Halloween. From battlefields to prisons to historic hotels, we explore the chilling stories and paranormal encounters that make these spots legendary.

Featured haunted destinations:
👻 Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

👻 The Stanley Hotel, Colorado

👻 Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia

👻 Myrtle’s Plantation, Louisiana

👻 Salem, Massachusetts

Tara takes the lead on this episode as we dive into the spine-tingling ghost stories and paranormal si...

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Dreaming of owning a home in Italy for just one euro? In this episode of Taste Toast Travel, we're doing a reality check on this! Join us as we dive into Italy’s €1 houses, and whether these deals are really too good to be true.

We explore:
🇮🇹 How the €1 house auctions work
🇮🇹 Why so many of these properties are available (hint: demographics and history play a big role)
🇮🇹 The real costs of renovation
🇮🇹 Common pitfalls, from Italian bureaucracy to hidden legal hurdles
🇮🇹 Why having trusted local contacts is essential for navigating the proc...

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Raise your steins and tighten your lederhosen—it’s Oktoberfest time! In this episode of Taste Toast Travel, Tara's taking the lead and diving into the history, traditions, and unforgettable stories behind the world’s largest beer festival: Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany. 

From its royal wedding origins in 1810 to the modern-day celebration that draws over six million people each year, we’re exploring how Oktoberfest became a cultural phenomenon.

You’ll discover: 
🇩🇪 Why Oktoberfest actually starts in September
🇩🇪 The history behind this festive event.
🇩🇪 What really happens inside the famous beer tents.<...

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We're so excited about this episode, because we're diving into the autumn vibes big time. Join us as we explore how cultures across the globe celebrate the Fall equinox!

From ancient monuments to seasonal feasts, this episode uncovers the history, spirituality, folklore, delicious foods, and traditions tied to the changing of the seasons.

In this chat we're traveling to:
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Stonehenge in England
🇮🇪 Newgrange in Ireland
🇰🇭 Angkor Wat in Cambodia
🇵🇪 Machu Picchu in Peru
🇲🇽 Chichen Itza in Mexico

Finally, we close it out with an autumn-themed this-or-that game to see wha...

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Tara is taking the lead on this episode of Taste Toast Travel as she chats with Isabelle Lesschaeve, a distinguished sensory scientist and wine expert.

Isabelle shares her inspiring journey through sensory science to the wine and non-alcoholic beverage industries, drawing from her academic and professional experiences in the US and Canada.

We dig into:
🍷 Isabelle’s journey from France to North America and her career in sensory science and wine research.
🍷 How sensory evaluation impacts the way we taste and enjoy wine, and everyday things we enjoy.
🍷 Pr...

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Today we're taking you to Siena, Italy!

Siena holds a special place in our heart because we lived and worked at a winery just outside of the city for several months in 2018, and were married there in 2022. We're sharing stories, travel tips, and our favorite experiences in one of Tuscany’s most iconic destinations.

From the heart-pounding excitement of the Palio di Siena horse race to the best city and countryside viewpoints, we dive into what makes Siena unforgettable and a not-to-miss stop. 

We also highlight our top cul...

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In this episode of the Taste Toast Travel Podcast, we’re raising a glass and celebrating California Wine Month! 🍷

From iconic varietals like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon to legendary regions including Napa Valley, Paso Robles, and Mendocino, we’re exploring what makes California a global wine powerhouse—literally, we’re 4th in the WORLD in wine production!

The conversation uncorks everything from the economic impact of California wine to the industry’s resilience post-COVID, along with a quick look back at the game-changing Judgment of Paris that put California wines on the map.<...

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It’s happy hour on the Taste Toast Travel podcast!

This week, we’re diving into two iconic cocktails: the Mai Tai and the Aperol Spritz.

We explore:

🍹 The intriguing and unexpected histories behind the Mai Tai and Aperol Spritz

🍹 Tips on how to make the perfect versions of each cocktail

🍹 Fun variations and alternatives you can try at home

🍹 Our travel experiences sipping these drinks around the world

To wrap things up, we take you to Siena, Italy, for a look at the Pa...

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Join Tara as she chats with Moira Khan, a Grief Coach, educator, and seasoned traveler whose journey has taken her from New Zealand to the UK and now to sunny Spain.

In this inspiring conversation, Moira shares:

✈️ How she navigated expat life in Spain and adapted to cultural differences.

✈️ Her experiences moving across continents with her family.

✈️ The importance of community and connection when living abroad.

✈️ Insights into Spanish culture, including the warm hospitality and slower pace of life.

✈️ Her love for Spanish wine regions...

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This week, we’re unpacking a handful of headlines in the food, drink, and travel industries, including Wine Enthusiast’s top Napa Valley wineries to visit (and adding our own insider picks you won’t want to miss!).

We’ll also spill the tea on:

🧳 The dirtiest spots in hotel rooms, and even your suitcase

🍺 Why so many Irish pubs are named after people, and the quirky history behind it

🩷 Meghan Markle’s brand-new rosé wine launch making headlines

🍷 A wine heist in London that's straight out of...

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In this crime lovers episode of Taste Toast Travel, we’re unpacking two shocking true crime stories from Northern California’s wine country in Napa.

First, we investigate the infamous French Laundry wine heist in Yountville, CA, where thieves made off with over $300,000 in rare, high-end wine—a burglary of a Thomas Keller restaurantthat rocked the food and wine world before unraveling in an unexpected twist.

Then, we turn to the murder-suicide of vintner Robert Dahl and businessman Emad Tawfilis, a wild tale of greed, fraud, and betrayal that shook Napa V...

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In this flavorful episode of Taste Toast Travel, Tara sits down with acclaimed Bay Area chef and restaurateur Paul Iglesias, the creative force behind Oakland, California hotspots Parché and Jaji. 

Known for weaving Colombian and Salvadorian heritage into every dish, Paul takes us on a journey from his roots in Washington, D.C., to the global flavors that shaped his culinary philosophy.

✨ Hear how his mother inspired his artistic approach to food, and how his travels through Colombia, Spain, and beyond influence every plate he serves.

 🌍 Discover the transfor...

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Today we’re breaking down notable travel changes, including the new TSA policy that finally ends the dreaded shoe removal at airport security.

Then, things take a turn as Tara shares how an order of fried chicken led to the downfall of the infamous outlaws Bonnie and Clyde.

Finally, we’re exploring the top-ranked U.S. and international cities for food and drink—revealing which culinary hotspots made the list, which ones definitely shouldn't have, and where you should plan your next delicious adventure.

Plus, don’t miss a fiery...

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Struggling to choose the right bottle of wine without spending a fortune? In this episode, Certified Sommelier John shares expert wine buying tips to help you shop smart—whether you're browsing the aisles of Trader Joe’s, Costco, or your favorite wine shop.

We break down exactly how to choose a great bottle of wine on a budget by decoding wine labels, understanding regions, and knowing what really matters when it comes to:

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We’re digging into the infamous 2013 Carnival Triumph disaster, also known as the “Poop Cruise”.

We dive into the chain of events that led to the catastrophic engine fire, the subsequent power and plumbing failures, and how 4,200 passengers were left stranded in unsanitary and dire conditions for five days. 

This (disturbing) tale includes firsthand accounts from crew members, interviews, and reflections on the shocking response from Carnival with look at the legal and financial aftermath for the affected everyone involved.

We also touch on Meghan Markle’s new As Ever R...

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This week we're so excited to be chatting with Sunduri Malcolm and diving into her truly inspiring journey, from her birth in New York to adventuring through countless states and countries in between, to her current home in Germany.

Sundari shares her background growing up in Harlem, and this exciting conversation dives into her travels, solo trips, her time living in a tiny home, in a bus traveling across the U.S., and her multiple moves along the way.

She offers such valuable insights into embracing new cultures, the importance...

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We’re kicking off Cocktail Conversations on the podcast!

We’re exploring the origins, deliciousness, and nuances of two classic cocktails: the Aviation and the Negroni. 

We start with Tara’s favorite gin-based drink, the Aviation, detailing its Prohibition-era roots that will give you all the 1920’s feels. Then, we dig into John’s Italian favorite, the Negroni, tracing its origins back to one of our most favorite cities: Florence (in 1919, more specifically).

We’re also continuing our Keep, Swap, Trash game going from last week with a fun twist in...

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Today we’re breaking down Clarkson's Farm Season 4! We’re chatting about everything from his entertaining (and sometimes questionable) farming practices to his challenges in opening his new restaurant The Farmer’s Dog, to our frustrations and favorite moments.

We also introducing a new game to the podcast. We’re kicking off “Keep, Swap, Trust”, essentially our version of “F*ck, marry, k*ll”: food, drink, and travel edition!

Download our free guides! https://tastetoasttravel.com/freebie

Connect with us and learn more:

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Join us as we break down and recap our recent trip to Maui, including what we would and wouldn’t do if we could do it again.

And, we also dig into how it was traveling with our 16-month-old and share what helped (and hindered) us as we traveled with her. We’re sharing where we'd recommend going—and where to avoid—based on our trip (just our opinions!), restaurants to enjoy, drinks you can’t miss, and more.

Download our free guides! https://tastetoasttravel.com/freebie

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