True Travel Talk

Germany Christmas Markets Part 2: Why Winter Is Europe’s Most Magical Season

In Part Two, Jill and Deanna continue their conversation, reflecting on a festive trip through Germany’s Christmas Markets with lessons learned, favorite moments, and practical tips.
From Augsburg and Ulm to Würzburg and Frankfurt, this two-part conversation focuses on the feel of winter travel: navigating cold weather, moving at a multigenerational pace, and leaning into the magic (and mishaps) that come with traveling together. 
Travel & Experience Highlights: 
Augsburg WeinNachtMart
Ulm Christmas Market & Medieval Market (Neu-Ulm)
Würzburg Christmas Market
Frankfurt Christmas Markets & City Beach Market
Feller Distillery (Black Forest)
White sausage breakfast in Ulm
Winter train travel through Germany
Hotels & Restaurants Mentioned: 
Hotel um Rathaus (Ulm)
Dreikannen (Ulm)
Posthorn (Ulm)
Feller Distillery
Wirsthaus zur Brezel (Ulm)
AC Hotel Würzburg
Pino Pizza (Würzburg)
Bürgerspital Winery (Würzburg)
Alte Mainmühle (Würzburg)
Frankfurt Marriott Hotel
About Our Guest: Deanna Vogelsong is a longtime friend of Jill and a seasoned traveler who brings warmth, humor, and curiosity to every trip. Follow Deanna here:
Insta: @kingbirdsings
TikTok: @sweetTakes
About the Show:True Travel Talk takes you around the world with real stories, honest tips, and inspired itineraries — from family adventures to faraway escapes, always grounded in connection and curiosity.
Follow along on Instagram: @truetravelcrew & TikTok: @truetravelcrew 
Executive Producer & Host: Jill BohaboyProduced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Germany Christmas Markets Part 1: Winter Travel & Multigenerational Memories

There’s something special about winter travel – especially when it’s shared across generations. In Part One of this two-part episode, Jill is joined by her longtime friend Deanna Vogelsong to reflect on a festive trip through Germany’s Christmas Markets with husbands, a “third grandmother,” and a 19-year-old son in tow.
From Augsburg and Ulm to Würzburg and Frankfurt, this conversation focuses on the feel of winter travel: navigating cold weather, moving at a multigenerational pace, and leaning into the magic (and mishaps) that come with traveling together. This episode is about presence, flexibility, and why imperfect trips often become the most meaningful. Part Two continues the journey with lessons learned, favorite moments, and practical tips.
Travel & Experience Highlights: 
Augsburg WeinNachtMart
Ulm Christmas Market & Medieval Market (Neu-Ulm)
Würzburg Christmas Market
Frankfurt Christmas Markets & City Beach Market
Feller Distillery (Black Forest)
White sausage breakfast in Ulm
Winter train travel through Germany
Hotels & Restaurants Mentioned: 
Hotel um Rathaus (Ulm)
Dreikannen (Ulm)
Posthorn (Ulm)
Feller Distillery
Wirsthaus zur Brezel (Ulm)
AC Hotel Würzburg
Pino Pizza (Würzburg)
Bürgerspital Winery (Würzburg)
Alte Mainmühle (Würzburg)
Frankfurt Marriott Hotel
About Our Guest: Deanna Vogelsong is a longtime friend of Jill and a seasoned traveler who brings warmth, humor, and curiosity to every trip. Follow Deanna here:
Insta: @kingbirdsings
TikTok: @sweetTakes
About the Show:True Travel Talk takes you around the world with real stories, honest tips, and inspired itineraries — from family adventures to faraway escapes, always grounded in connection and curiosity.
Follow along on Instagram: @truetravelcrew & TikTok: @truetravelcrew 
Executive Producer & Host: Jill BohaboyProduced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Tanzania: Changed Perspectives, Deep Connection & Breathtaking Scenery

Connecting with people from different cultures is one of the best things about traveling. That cultural connection played a starring role in our recent trip to Tanzania. Join Jill and her guest, Josie Russell (a high school senior at the time of the trip), to reflect on their life-changing philanthropic journey to Tanzania. In this heartfelt conversation, they share stories from visiting Maasai villages, playing soccer with local students, witnessing wildlife in the Serengeti, and confronting uncomfortable truths that expanded their worldview.
Travel & Experience Highlights: 
TAASA Luxury Lodges & Camps
Global Partners For Development
Killi Seasons
Hoopoe Safari  
Pastoral Women’s Council  
Ngare Sero 
About Our Guest: You can follow Josie Russell and see her photography here 
Insta: @josierussell10
TikTok: @josie.r1
About the Show:True Travel Talk takes you around the world with real stories, honest tips, and inspired itineraries — from family adventures to faraway escapes, always grounded in connection and curiosity.
Follow Along on Instagram: @truetravelcrew
Executive Producer & Host: Jill BohaboyProduced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Peru: Cusco – Keeping it local with Pisco, Artisans, Food and Historic Architecture

Looking to escape the big city? Head to Cusco, Peru. In this episode, Jill and her friend and neighbor, Amy, share another chapter of their Peru adventure – from a tipsy train arrival to an almost-disastrous departure. 
They cover Cusco’s hidden gems and lessons learned, including the Santo Domingo Convent, the iconic 12-Angle Stone, and the vibrant San Pedro Market, along with their honest take on where to stay. Plus, hear about their Pisco tasting, dinner at the renowned Cicciolina restaurant, and favorite local bites.
Warm hospitality, stunning architecture, unforgettable culture – tune in to hear why Cusco belongs on every Peru travel itinerary.Travel & Experience Highlights: 
Stay at the uniquely beautiful Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel
Grab lunch at LIMO overlooking the Plaza de Armas
Learn about, taste and try your hand at making pisco cocktails at Museo Del Pisco. 
Enjoy a delectable dinner, even when you’re already stuffed, at Cicciolina Restaurant
And here’s the recipe for Lomo Salto 
For pictures of this trip and to follow along our next adventure, follow us on Instagram: @truetravelcrew
About the Show:True Travel Talk takes you around the world with real stories, honest tips, and inspired itineraries — from family adventures to faraway escapes, always grounded in connection and curiosity.
Executive Producer & Host: Jill BohaboyProduced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

France: Loire Valley - A Road Trip with a Winemaker

Sometimes the best trips aren’t planned around big landmarks – they unfold through shared stories, good meals, and the people you travel with. In this episode, Jill joins California winemaker and friend Bill Williamson for a three-day road trip through France’s Loire Valley, filled with unforgettable winery visits, river views, perfect meals, and plenty of laughter.
From a goat-filled gas station to tastings with local winemakers and dinners overlooking the Loire, this is travel at its best: slow, joyful, and rooted in friendship.
Travel & Experience Highlights
Day One: Sancerre → Blois
Sancerre for Savingnon Blanc at Château de Crezancy (arranged by phone with Nicolas Chevreau)
In Blois, stay at Fleur de Loire - 44 rooms + suites, Loire views, historic hospitality
Dinner at Amour Blanc (at the hotel)
Day Two: Vourvray → Chinon
Vourvray: Marc Brédif Chinin Blanc tasting, intimate floral setting
Lunch: Chinon sidewalk cafe; light salads, narrow streets
Tastings: 
Angelliaume - cave tasting with quirky signs
Bernard Baudry - formal Cab Franc tasting
Dinner: Bro’s Restaurant - courtyard dining
Day Three: Blois
Lunch + Shopping: Art de la Table, Cheese tasting at La Passion du Fromage
Dinner at Le Médicis, final foie gras, fresh marshmallow dessert with sunset over the Loire
About the Guest:Bill Williamson is an Australian-born winemaker who moved to California with his wife Dawn in 1980 and went on to found Williamson Wines in Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley. He oversees the vineyards and winemaking for more than 45 award-winning, direct-to-consumer wines and is known for making wine feel accessible, joyful, and meant to be shared. As he says, “I grow good grapes, make good wine, and I share it with friends.” Find more ways to engage with Williamson Wines here.
About the Show:True Travel Talk takes you around the world with real stories, honest tips, and inspired itineraries — from family adventures to faraway escapes, always grounded in connection and curiosity.
Follow Along on Instagram: @truetravelcrew
Executive Producer & Host: Jill BohaboyProduced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Unpacked: What Works (and Doesn’t) When Traveling in 80s

In this Unpacked episode, Jill sits down with family friend Donna, fondly named the third grandmother, to explore how travel evolves through every stage of life – from raising kids to retiring, from traveling as a couple to adventuring with grandkids in tow. From paragliding in Austria to a luxury ranch stay in Montana, Donna shares honest reflections on slowing down, staying curious, navigating limitations, and finding joy in letting others take the lead.
They also talk about what still feels thrilling at 82, why flexibility matters more than perfection, the art of sitting out of an activity without missing out, and how traveling with family creates memories that outlast the destination.
Travel & Experience Highlights
Ride horses, stargaze, and unwind at The Ranch at Rock Creek – Montana’s multigenerational dream trip
Marvel at the beauty (and the stairs) of Batu Caves, Malaysia
Go bold with paragliding in Austria – courage at any age
Sip sherry, explore the grounds, and live like royalty at Ashford Castle, Ireland
Circle the globe on a Road Scholar UNESCO adventure, including India, Egypt, & beyond
Follow Along on Instagram: @truetravelcrew
About the Show:True Travel Talk takes you around the world with real stories, honest tips, and inspired itineraries — from family adventures to faraway escapes, always grounded in connection and curiosity.
Executive Producer & Host: Jill BohaboyProduced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

New York City: Greenwich Village – A Walk Through History, Pop Culture, and Pizza

Sometimes the best way to experience New York is to slow down, wander, and follow your curiosity. In this episode, Jill and friend/colleague Jen sneak in a cozy fall escape before a work trip – exploring Greenwich Village, the artists’ haven, and home to some of the best pizza slices on Earth.From a 30-year Times Square hotel tradition to cappuccinos at a 1927 Village institution, a private tour with a local writer, and a full day of iconic movie spots, TV moments, and Swiftie trivia, this trip was New York at its best: layered, lived-in, and endlessly surprising. 
Because in the Village, every block has a story – and usually, a slice.
Travel & Experience Highlights: 
Stay: Renaissance Times Square - a longtime favorite with standout staff, city views, and an unbeatable location
Tour By Locals with Nicky Shapiro with Nicky Tours - no scripts, no monologues. Just real New York experiences, your way
Greenwich Village Essentials:
Caffe Reggio - first cappuccino in the U.S. (since 1927)
Washington Square Park - street performers, chess tables, iconic arch
Pizza Tour:
Joe’s Pizza - the classic “plain slice”
Two Boots - cajun-italian, colorful, creative
Bleeker Street Pizza - Nonna Maria = perfection
Village Square Pizza - Vodka + Grandma slices
Art, Views, & Markets:
Whitney Museum of American Art - fantastic gift shop
The High Line - Elevated park and public art
Chelsea Market - Food hall + shops
Little Island - Floating part at Pier 55
Drinks and Dinner:
The Garret - Hidden cocktail bar above Five Guys
Dante West Village - Seasonal cocktails, cozy outdoor seating
White Horse Tavern - Since 1880, classic NYC bar snacks & vibes
Follow Along on Instagram: @truetravelcrew
About the Show:True Travel Talk takes you around the world with real stories, honest tips, and inspired itineraries — from family adventures to faraway escapes, always grounded in connection and curiosity.
Executive Producer & Host: Jill BohaboyProduced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler
 

California Wine Country: Napa & Sonoma – A Friends’ Getaway Through the Vines

Sometimes the best trips aren’t perfectly planned – they just flow. In this episode, Jill recounts with husband Paul about their escape with friends to California’s Wine Country for three unforgettable days of vineyards, great meals, and good company. From the family legacy of Sonoma’s Sangiacomo Vineyards to the artistic design of Three Sticks and the rebellious spirit of Tank Garage in Napa, this trip was a toast to friendship, flavor, and fun.
Because sometimes the best itineraries are the ones written in pencil – and poured in Pinot.
Travel & Experience Highlights: 
Stay Napa Valley Marriott with great outdoor space to relax, or play games with friends and family, with evening wine tasting 
Wine Country Experiences for transportation and Tastefuli app for reservations
Sonoma: 
Sangiacomo Family Vineyards – Family-farmed since 1927
Lunch at Café La Haye – Cozy, Michelin Guide spot with a killer Kobe burger
Pangloss Cellars – Downtown tasting room with small plates
Three Sticks Wines – Historic Adobe, modern style
Dinner at Bistro Don Giovanni – Napa classic with garden-fresh Italian
Howell Mountain, St. Helena & Calistoga:
Bremer Family Winery – Hidden gem with Howell Mountain Cabs
Spence Vineyards – Family-run, high-elevation beauty
Lunch at Sunshine Market 
El Molino Winery – Founded in 1871, still family-owned, by appointment only
Tank Garage Winery – Vintage gas station turned creative tasting room - always fun
Dinner at Bistro Jeanty – French comfort food at its finest
Napa Valley:
David Arthur Vineyards – Pritchard Hill views, family legacy
Lunch at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch – Farm-to-table favorites and spicy margaritas
Trespass Vineyard – Small-production wines, big heart
Late-night tradition: It’s-It Ice Cream Bars 
Follow Along on Instagram: @truetravelcrew
About the Show:True Travel Talk takes you around the world with real stories, honest tips, and inspired itineraries — from family adventures to faraway escapes, always grounded in connection and curiosity.
Executive Producer & Host: Jill BohaboyProduced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Michigan: Mackinac Island – A Last-Minute Mother-Son Adventure

Ever have a parenting moment where you think, “Should we?” – and then you say yes anyway?
In this episode, Jill takes you along on a totally last-minute trip to Mackinac Island – just her, her mom, and her little guy, Graeme. One unexpected day off school turned into three, and suddenly they were on a ferry north, chasing one more perfect slice of summer.
From iconic fudge to horse-drawn carriage rides, sweeping porch views at The Grand, mini golf, and numerous trips down the waterslide, this trip is filled with charm, tradition, and joyful chaos. Sometimes the best memories don’t come from planning…they come from play.
Travel & Experience Highlights: 
Stay at the Grand Hotel - America’s Summer Place since 1887 https://www.grandhotel.com
Dinner at The Jockey Club https://www.grandhotel.com/dining/jockey-club/
Iconic hot dogs at The DogHouse at Windermere Point https://www.mackinacdoghouse.com
Dinner at the legendary Pink Pony https://www.pinkponymackinac.com
A cozy retreat at The Inn at StoneCliffe https://www.theinnatstonecliffe.com
Ferry via Shepler’s Ferry https://www.sheplersferry.com
Follow Along on Instagram: @truetravelcrew
About the Show: True Travel Talk takes you around the world with real stories, honest tips, and inspired itineraries — from family adventures to faraway escapes, always grounded in connection and curiosity.
Executive Producer & Host: Jill Bohaboy Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Unpacked: Travel Through the Eyes of a Young Explorer

In this Unpacked episode, Jill sits down with her 18-year-old son, Ian — a student at High Point University — to explore what travel looks like through the eyes of a young explorer. From trying sea urchin in Versailles to cheering for Liverpool FC, Ian shares how travel has shaped his independence, curiosity, and confidence. He also reflects on planning his first trip with friends on a budget (with a little mom mentorship along the way) and the lessons travel teaches beyond the guidebooks.
Travel & Experience Highlights:
Taste sea urchin at Gordon Ramsay’s Au Trianon, Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace and discover the culinary side of travel.
Relax in style at Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain and enjoy breathtaking island views.
Cheer on Liverpool FC — Ian’s favorite football club — and explore the global fan experience.
Learn about Aussie rules at Richmond Tigers AFL and the excitement of sports abroad.
Visit the Freycinet Marine Farm in Tasmania and see where fresh oysters meet adventure.
Hike through stunning landscapes at Bryce Canyon National Park and reflect on nature’s grandeur.
Guest Socials: Follow Ian on Instagram: @IanBohaboy
Follow Along on Instagram: @truetravelcrew
About the Show: True Travel Talk takes you around the world with real stories, honest tips, and inspired itineraries — from family adventures to faraway escapes, always grounded in connection and curiosity.
Executive Producer & Host: Jill Bohaboy Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler