In this episode, I’m joined by Kristina Plattner, the managing director of Kamba Rainforest Experiences, a groundbreaking eco-tourism initiative deep in the heart of the Republic of Congo (ROC). Kristina shares her fascinating journey from growing up in the hospitality world of South Africa to creating immersive travel experiences in one of the world’s last great rainforests. Her passion for conservation, community engagement, and storytelling shines as we talk about how Kamba connects travelers with the lush, biodiverse environment of the Congo Basin—a region few tourists have explored but which holds incredible ecological and cultural significance. From tracking western lowland gorillas and forest elephants to collaborating with local guides and Ba’Aka communities, Kamba is all about meaningful, ethical, and unforgettable encounters.

We also dive into the realities of running a responsible tourism business in such a remote, logistically challenging region. Kristina discusses the balance between luxury and sustainability, the importance of respecting local traditions, and the vision for Kamba to become a leader in regenerative travel across Central Africa. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or dreaming of going off-grid for the first time, this episode will open your eyes to the beauty and potential of the Republic of Congo as a premier destination for nature and culture lovers alike. If you’re seeking untamed wilderness, rare wildlife encounters, and a chance to travel with purpose, this conversation will both inspire and inform.

We discuss:

✅ What makes Kamba Rainforest Experiences unique

✅ How Kristina fell in love with the Congo and transitioned from hospitality in South Africa to jungle adventures in the ROC

✅ Gorilla trekking, forest safaris, and cultural immersion with local communities

✅ The challenges and rewards of running an eco-tourism initiative in remote Central Africa

✅ Why the ROC is an off-the-beaten-path travel gem worth discovering now

🌍 Whether you're a curious traveller, conservation enthusiast, or looking to visit lesser-known destinations in Africa, this episode will inspire your next adventure.

Kamba Links

Kamba Rainforest Experiences - https://kambaafrica.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kamba.africa/

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

02:29 Tina Plattner's Journey and Background

09:17 The Founding of Kamba African Rainforest Experiences

11:40 Understanding the Republic of Congo

16:25 Exploring Otsala Kukua National Park

20:06 Wildlife Encounters and Gorilla Tracking

23:05 Adventure Packages and Guest Experiences

27:11 Sustainability Practices and Community Impact

29:24 Gorilla Tracking and Wildlife Interactions

31:07 Conservation Efforts and Local Communities

34:27 Empowering Local Guides and Education

36:24 The Shift in Travel Mindset

38:25 Budgeting for Unique Experiences

40:14 Why Choose Kamba for Your Adventure?

43:22 Exploring Beyond the Rainforest

46:08 Cost of Living and Travel in the Republic of Congo

48:05 The Allure of the Untouched Wilderness

50:29 Connecting with Kamba: Booking Your Journey

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One Epic Day in Tikal: Exploring Guatemala’s Ancient Mayan City

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you deep into the Guatemalan jungle for an unforgettable one-day adventure through Tikal National Park—one of the most breathtaking and mysterious Mayan archaeological sites in the world.

Join me as I travel from Lake Atitlán to Flores, flying from Guatemala City Airport (not part of the plan!). I take you on a journey into the heart of Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Guatemala’s must-see destinations. I share my real-time experiences, from booking the guide and finding accommodation to dealing with hostel mishaps and late-night boat rides on Lake Petén Itzá.

🎒 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How to visit Tikal in one day (and why it's totally worth it!)
• The best tips for booking your Tikal day tour
• Why staying on the island of Flores is essential
• What to bring to Tikal: cash, ponchos, and good shoes!
• Temple highlights: Temple I (Temple of the Great Jaguar), Temple II (Temple of the Masks), and the towering Temples IV and V
• Insights from my incredible guide, Georgino
• The mystery of Tikal’s collapse and what still lies hidden beneath the jungle
• My recommended hostels in Flores, Guatemala
• Whether you need a guide to explore the ruins (hint: it’s highly recommended!)

🌿 Why Tikal Is So Special:

Tikal was once a thriving Mayan city and holds deep historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. With only 10–20% of its ruins uncovered, this ancient city in the jungle offers visitors a rare and humbling glimpse into a civilization that mastered architecture, astronomy, and jungle living. It's an absolute bucket-list destination in Guatemala, and a highlight of my Central America backpacking trip.

📸 PRO TIP: Take your best camera—Tikal is a content creator’s dream with panoramic jungle views, ancient pyramids, and wildlife all around.

🧭 Essential Travel Info for Tikal, Guatemala:

• Location: Tikal National Park, Petén, northern Guatemala
• Entry Fee: 150 Quetzales (cash only)
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (Nov–Apr), but bring a rain jacket regardless
• Tours: Easily booked through hostels like Los Amigos or Casa Maya Itza

✈️ After Tikal, I flew back to Guatemala City, en route to Mexico City and Oaxaca—coming up in future episodes!

Book Hostal Cada de Grethel on Booking.com

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome to the Winging It Travel Podcast

00:30 Journey to Tikal: Planning and Logistics

02:20 Experiencing Flores: Accommodation Insights

04:14 Exploring Tikal: The Guided Tour Begins

05:41 The Wonders of Tikal: History and Architecture

09:00 The Mysteries of Tikal: Collapse and Rediscovery

10:26 Final Thoughts on Tikal: Recommendations and Reflections

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🌎 Episode Overview:

This week on Winging It Travel Podcast, I'm taking you along with me to the breathtaking Lake Atitlán in Guatemala! After an epic volcano hike in Antigua, it was time to slow things down by the water. I’ll be sharing my experience staying in Panajachel, exploring the charming town of San Pedro, finding incredible coffee spots, and my disappointment at missing out on paragliding (don’t worry, I’m already planning a return trip!). I’ve got tips on getting around the lake, hostel recommendations, must-try cafés, and why you’ll want way more than two days here.

🎧 In This Episode I Talk About:

• How I got from Antigua to Lake Atitlán
• What it was like staying at Selina Hostel in Panajachel
• The best coffee shops I discovered in Panajachel and San Pedro
• A hidden café gem you have to check out in San Pedro
• My favourite local restaurant find
• Hostels that are perfect whether you want to party or chill out
• What happened when I tried (and failed) to go paragliding
• How to navigate the public boats like a pro
• Why I totally underestimated how long you should stay here

🏡 Places I Visited:

• Selina Hostel Panajachel
• Cafe Loco (Panajachel)
• Tornado’s Café (San Pedro)
• Jakku Restaurant (San Pedro)

Recommended Hostels

• Mr. Mullet’s Hostel (San Pedro)
• Dreamboat Hostel (San Pedro)
• Free Cerveza Hostel (Santa Cruz La Laguna)

🎒 Travel Tips I Learned:

• Always check wind conditions for paragliding (even if the weather looks good!)
• Booking boats directly at the dock is easy — a little Spanish goes a long way
• Two days isn’t enough — plan for a longer stay if you can!

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome to the Winging It Travel Podcast

00:30 Exploring Lake Atitlán: Arrival and Accommodations

01:54 Activities and Local Culture at Lake Atitlán

04:15 Cafes, Dining, and Social Scene

07:10 Adventures and Recommendations for Future Visits

09:31 Wrap-Up and Future Travel Plans

Support the Show:

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform! Want to support the show? Check out our affiliate links for travel resources in the show notes.

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Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and rating wherever you get your podcasts!

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Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com

Social Media - follow me on:

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Jacob Lemanski - Cycling the World: A 999-Day Adventure Across 38,000 Miles

What does it take to spend nearly three years cycling across the world? In this episode, Jacob Lemanski takes us on an epic journey through 38,000 miles, crossing deserts, mountains, and countless borders. With nothing but a bike and the will to keep going, Jacob shares how he navigated extreme climates, overcame physical and mental challenges, and embraced the kindness of strangers along the way.

From sleeping under the stars in Mongolia to pushing his limits in the Andes, Jacob’s adventure wasn’t just about miles—it was a life-changing exploration of resilience and purpose. Tune in to hear about the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned from one of the most extraordinary cycling trips ever attempted. Whether you’re dreaming of your own adventure or looking for inspiration, this conversation will remind you of the limitless potential of the human spirit.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why Jacob decided to quit his job and bike around the world.
• The unexpected moments that defined his journey, from encounters with wildlife to navigating remote deserts.
• How to budget and plan for long-term travel, including Jacob’s creative tips for saving money.
• The mental and emotional toll of adventure and how Jacob coped with isolation and homesickness.
• Insights into Jacob’s podcast, How to Move the Stars, and the enduring impact of his journey.

Timestamps:

01:15 Jacob introduces himself and how he prepared for a 999-day journey.

09:00 The spark that ignited Jacob’s dream to bike around the world.

18:00 Surviving in the Gobi Desert: Navigating without maps and the challenge of remote landscapes.

27:30 Memorable encounters with locals: Acts of kindness in Central America and beyond.

33:00 Facing fears: The realities of camping in the wild and dealing with bears in Alaska.

45:00 The emotional toll of isolation and how Jacob found inspiration to keep going.

55:00 The decision to stop and reflections on what 999 days taught him about life, adventure, and resilience.

01:03:00 Jacob’s transition back to "normal life" and how he transformed his experiences into a podcast.

01:08:00 Top travel tips: Jacob’s favorite countries, best routes for biking, and advice for aspiring adventurers.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Jacob’s podcast: How to Move the Stars
• Travel essentials: Hammocks, bike gear, and survival tips.

Connect with Jacob:

• Website: howtomovethestars.com
• Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/howtomovestars/

Support the Show:

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform! Want to support the show? Check out our affiliate links for travel resources in the show notes.

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Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

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My Antigua, Guatemala Travel Guide: Budget Tips, Awesome Activities, Low-Cost Hotels and Great Coffee

Welcome back to the Winging It Travel Podcast — your go-to show for spontaneous adventures, budget travel tips, and honest tales from the road. I’m your host James, and this week I’m taking you to one of the most photogenic and culturally rich cities in Central America: Antigua, Guatemala. This charming colonial town is a favorite stop for backpackers, digital nomads, and curious travelers looking to soak up history, sip incredible coffee, and explore some epic volcanoes.

In this solo episode, I break down everything you need to know about spending 5 days in Antigua — from getting there, finding budget-friendly accommodation, navigating local transportation, and, of course, where to eat and drink some of the best coffee in Guatemala. I also share my experience with one of the best lookout points in Central America, a unique coffee farm tour that supports local growers, and a quick recap of the Acatenango Volcano hike, which I covered in full detail in the last two week’s episode. Whether you're just passing through or planning to stay a while, this episode is packed with practical travel tips and inspiration to help you make the most of your time in Antigua.

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Ox Expeditions (for Acatenango hike)
• Gecko Explorer (for shuttles)
• La Casita de Angie & Hotel Casa Del Cerro (budget hotels)
• Delahente Coffee Farm Tour
• Free Walking Tour via GuruWalk
• My favorite cafes: Fat Cat, Fernando’s, Abole, Onzas, and more!

⏰ Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: Why Antigua Guatemala?

01:30 – How to Get to Antigua from Guatemala City or El Salvador

03:10 – Currency Tips + Getting Around Town

04:25 – Budget Accommodation in Antigua

06:15 – Best Cafes + Local & International Food Spots

09:00 – Daily Budget Breakdown for Backpackers

10:15 – Top Activities: Santa Catalina Arch, Central Park, & Free Walking Tour

12:40 – Stunning Views from Cerro de la Cruz Lookout

14:20 – Coffee Farm Tour: A Hidden Gem You Shouldn’t Miss

16:00 – Acatenango Volcano Hike Recap & Extra Tips

18:00 – Safety, Language, Digital Nomads & Final Thoughts

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Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and rating wherever you get your podcasts!

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Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok

🎙️ Episode Title: We Hiked Acatenango to See Fuego and Chaos Ensued for Nick!

So we climbed Acatenango together… and that was already intense. But then Nick decided to go one volcano further — literally. Nick and I met in El Salvador, travelled to Antigua in Guatemala, and decided to hike the Acatenango Volcano together.

In this funny, honest episode, we recount our wild trek up Guatemala’s Volcán Acatenango — a two-day grind through steep trails, freezing nights, and jaw-dropping views. But the real twist? While most sane people watched Fuego erupt from a safe distance, Nick hiked straight toward it with a group in tow.

Yup. He dropped down the saddle and made the bonus climb to stand just a few hundred meters from one of the most active volcanoes in the world — Volcán de Fuego — while it erupted.

For an extra bit of money, you can add a hike to Fuego when you get to base camp, and Nick shares his stories, the good and bad of what to expect when you climb. Nick left at 5 pm for Fuego and did not return until nearly midnight, so there is much to discuss! It should have only taken 3-5 hours, so it didn't go quite as planned.

🏕️ From campfire laughs to hiking-induced delirium and Nick’s death-defying detour, this episode is full of high-altitude absurdity, heart-racing adventure, and a whole lot of ash.

Whether you’re curious about hiking Acatenango, dreaming of volcano views, or just want to hear a story about a guy willingly walking towards an erupting mountain... this one’s a ride.

To add to the drama, there is some great content in here about hiking Acatenango and Fuego in general, so if this is something on your bucket list, you could learn a few things from this episode.

🔥 What’s Inside:

• The Acatenango climb: expectations vs. reality
• Camp life at 3,600m: freezing temps, volcanic light shows, and hot noodles
• Nick’s wild decision to summit Fuego — and what he saw up there
• The sounds, sights, and full sensory chaos of a volcano erupting nearby
• Advice for anyone thinking of doing the hike (and the Fuego add-on)
• A reminder that the best stories come from slightly bad ideas

🎧 Ideal for listeners who love:

• Real, raw, and ridiculous travel stories
• Volcano hiking in Guatemala
• Backpacking comedy with an edge of danger
• Inspiring (and slightly reckless) solo challenges

Timestamps

00:00 Chasing Adventure: The Fuego Hike Experience

02:06 Travel Insights: The Winging It Podcast Introduction

06:04 Traveling for Work: Perks of the Travel Industry

12:09 The Evolution of Travel: From Family Trips to Solo Adventures

17:48 Exploring El Salvador: A Journey of Discovery

30:05 Guatemala Awaits: The Acatenango Volcano Hike

38:46 Booking Adventures: The Importance of Local Knowledge

40:57 Booking and Initial Expectations

43:02 Red Flags on the Journey

49:31 The Volcano Hike Begins

52:00 Challenges of the Ascent

58:29 Reaching Base Camp

01:01:10 Accommodation Realities

01:05:11 The Fuego Hike Decision

01:10:42 The Descent to Fuego

01:13:06 Experiencing Fuego's Eruptions

01:17:54 The Dinner Dilemma

01:21:25 Cold Nights and Stunning Sunrises

01:23:56 The Volcano Experience: Fuego vs. Akatenango

01:28:54 Reflections on the Hike and Company Recommendations

01:35:12 Exploring Antigua: A Tourist's Perspective

01:39:35 Lake Atitlán: A Hidden Gem

01:42:41 Tikal: The Underrated Marvel

01:43:44 Quickfire Travel...

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to hike to 13,045 feet (3,976 meters) and sleep beside an active volcano? In this immersive audio episode, join me as I take on the challenging Acatenango Volcano hike, a two-day trek near Antigua, Guatemala, that offers some of the most stunning volcanic views in the world. This 14.5-kilometer (9-mile) round-trip hike takes around 5–7 hours to ascend and 3–4 hours to descend, with steep trails, changing climates, and breathtaking panoramas. At the summit, you'll witness Fuego Volcano’s dramatic eruptions, spewing ash and lava every 15–30 minutes—an unforgettable display of nature’s raw power.

🎙️ Expect real-time reactions, raw emotions, and the sounds of Fuego’s powerful eruptions as I navigate this intense overnight trek. From gruelling inclines to breathtaking lava displays at night, this is an adventure you don’t want to miss!

For more information about this hike, the good and the bad, be sure to check in to my next episode with my friend Nick from the hike as we dissect what we learnt and share things you should know. There will be plenty of funny stories, tips, mishaps and banter.

✅ The difficulty of the Acatenango hike – is it as brutal as they say?

✅ What it’s like to sleep next to an active volcano and witness eruptions every 10 minutes

✅ Packing tips & what I wish I had brought

✅ Tour company experience – the good, the bad, and unexpected surprises

✅ The insane sunrise views and final descent back to Antigua

✅ Would I do it again? My final thoughts on this bucket-list experience

🌍 Thinking about hiking Acatenango yourself? Stick around for insider tips at the end of the episode!

📌 Subscribe & Follow: If you enjoy immersive travel experiences, don’t forget to subscribe to the Winging It Travel Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen!

👍 Leave a Review: Love the episode? Drop a 5-star review and let me know what adventure you want to hear next!

📷 Follow Along on Instagram: Winging It Travel Podcast for behind-the-scenes photos and videos from this epic journey!

00:00 - Intro – Welcome to the episode! Get ready for an immersive journey up Acatenango Volcano.

00:05 - Why Acatenango? – The anticipation, excitement, and nerves before the hike.

00:58 - The Big Day Begins – Clear skies, nervous energy, and the start of an intense challenge.

02:06 - What to Expect – Distance, elevation, costs, and how tough this hike really is.

03:09 - First Climb & Reality Check – The brutal incline, volcanic ash terrain, and stolen snacks!

04:32 - The Uphill Battle Continues – No breaks, no flat sections—just relentless climbing.

05:50 - Reaching Base Camp – The first sight of Fuego and the relief of making it to camp.

07:13 - Fuego Erupts! – Experiencing the first rumble and smoke, plus the option to climb Fuego.

08:33 - Nightfall & Lava Show – The eruptions become even more intense—an unforgettable sight.

10:36 - Sunrise Magic – Waking up early

🎙 Episode Title: IMMERSIVE Episode - Exploring Bangalore, India: Dosas, Rickshaw Chaos and Lush Parks

Do you want to feel immersed in Bangalore? Feel the traffic? Hear the birds in Cubbon Park? Listen to our reaction to eating dosas? Learn about Bangalore Palace? And more?

This episode is for you! I have added sounds from my trip to Bangalore, alongside my reaction on the ground and post-trip. There is lots of information, wanderlust, and inspiration to get you thinking about booking that trip to Bangalore, India. I love creating these episodes as I can take you with me on my journey through the city over two days. More details of the episode are below.

Summary

After eight years, I’m back in India—this time for a media trip with Karnataka Tourism for the Travel Expo 2025! With a few extra days in Bangalore, I set out to explore the vibrant culture, chaotic streets, lush parks, and legendary food scene of India’s third-largest city. From crispy dosas to rickshaw rides, grand palaces to bustling microbreweries, this episode is a full-on immersive experience in Bangalore.

🚖 What to Expect in This Episode:

✅ My journey from Vancouver to Bangalore (22 hours of travel!)

✅ First impressions of Bangalore’s traffic, noise, and energy

✅ Must-visit places:

• Cubbon Park – The “Lung Space” of Bangalore
• UB City – India’s first luxury mall
• Bangalore Palace – A glimpse into royal history
• Commercial Street – A vibrant shopping hub
• Frazer Town – Colonial charm & diverse food scene
• ISKCON Temple – A spiritual experience like no other
• ✅ Foodie Highlights:
• Rameshwaram Café – The best dosas & filter coffee in town!
• Dolce Café – A cozy spot for coffee & desserts
• Oz by Kebabchi – A taste of Turkish cuisine in Bangalore
• ✅ Experiencing Bangalore’s legendary pub culture at The Bierre Club
• ✅ Reflections on why Bangalore is a must-visit destination in South India

🌍 Final Thoughts:

Bangalore surprised me in so many ways—from its modern tech hub energy to its serene green spaces and bustling street life. Would I return? 100%! And I can’t wait to explore more of Karnataka in the future.

Timestamps

00:00 – Intro – Back in India after 8 years! Media trip with Karnataka Tourism for the Travel Expo 2025. First impressions of Bangalore.

01:30 – Bangalore vs. Delhi: What to Expect? – Traffic, chaos, and energy of the city. How different is Bangalore from Delhi?

02:30 – 22-Hour Journey from Vancouver to Bangalore – Flying with Cathay Airways (great legroom!). Arriving at Kempegowda International Airport at 1:30 AM. The buzz, camera crews, and first moments in Bangalore.

04:00 – First Stop: Cubbon Park – The Lush “Lung Space” of Bangalore – A peaceful escape in the middle of the city. Exploring walking routes, nature sounds, and morning vibes.

06:40 – Coffee Break at Dolci Café ☕️ – A cozy café with an Americano & Oreo cheesecake.

07:10 – Exploring UB City: India’s First Luxury Mall – Meeting David from the Travel in 10 podcast. Trying Turkish cuisine at Oz by Kebabchi.

08:30 – Bangalore Palace: A Royal Experience 👑 – Inspired by Windsor Castle. 500 rupee entrance fee & no photos allowed inside. Free audio guide with fascinating history.

09:45 –...