26. What if your first trip overseas was not something you planned for years, but a last-minute leap to East Africa?

In this “Unpacked” episode of True Travel Talk, Jill sits down with friend Michelle to talk about saying yes before you feel ready - and what happens when the trip tests you before you even arrive. Michelle’s first international trip was a last-minute journey to Uganda and Tanzania, filled with the kind of real-world travel challenges that can make even experienced travelers nervous.

From complicated flights to last-minute vaccine requirements to navigating visa logistics on arrival, Michelle had to problem-solve in real time. But on the other side of all that uncertainty was East Africa: the beauty, perspective, and unforgettable moments that made the leap worth it.

This conversation connects to a larger East Africa series, with additional episodes featuring gorilla trekking in Uganda and Tanzania through the eyes of a high school traveler.

In this episode, Michelle shares:

• What it felt like to take her first overseas trip
• How she handled flight issues, vaccines, and visa logistics
• Why last-minute travel requires flexibility from the start
• Why the best trips sometimes begin with the most uncertainty

For anyone dreaming about East Africa, facing travel nerves, or wondering whether to say yes to a trip that feels bigger than their comfort zone, this episode is a reminder that readiness often comes after the leap.

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 Bohaboy Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

25. This episode takes us to Philadelphia for a food-focused conversation with Jill’s friend and colleague, Jen Floyd, about experiencing a city through what you eat, where you wander, and the stories you collect.

Philadelphia is known for its iconic traditions, but this conversation goes beyond the obvious. Jill and Jen talk about the joy of building a trip around local flavor - from classic Philly bites to neighborhood stops, casual meals, memorable recommendations, and the kind of food experiences that help you feel connected to a place.

Whether you’re planning a weekend in Philadelphia, looking for ideas for a food-centered itinerary, or just love hearing how real travelers discover a city one meal at a time, this episode is full of inspiration for tasting your way through one of America’s most historic and flavorful cities.

Travel and Experience Highlights

• Reading Terminal Market - one of Philadelphia’s most iconic food destinations, filled with longtime vendors, local favorites, and endless ways to taste the city in one stop
• Pearl’s Oyster Bar - A Reading Terminal seafood spot known for fresh seafood dishes, breakfast, lunch, and brunch
• Fox & Sons Fancy Corn Dogs - Made-to-order fair-style favorites, including corn dogs, funnel cake, and cheese curds, with a naturally gluten-free menu
• DiNic’s - A classic Reading Terminal stop for Italian sandwiches, including roast pork and beef
• Miller’s Twist - Soft, butter-dipped Amish-style pretzels and pretzel wraps made fresh in the market
• Bieler’s Doughnuts and Pickle Patch - Fresh, hand-rolled doughnuts with dozens of flavors, plus Pennsylvania Dutch market favorites
• Samami Somi - Georgian cuisine inside Reading Terminal Market, bringing fresh-baked breads, cheese boats, and flavors from the country of Georgia to Philadelphia
• Shane Confectionery - A historic Philadelphia sweet shop known as America’s oldest continuously operating confectionery (with candy, ice cream, and drinking chocolate)
• Louie Louie - A French-inspired bistro in University City with a stylish atmosphere and Philadelphia twist

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 Bohaboy Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

24. This episode brings Jill’s Germany story full circle. After beginning the trip in Garmisch-Partenkirchen - the place that inspired the very first episode of True Travel Talk - the family splits off in different directions, with Jill’s travel team heading toward one of Germany’s most storybook regions: the Black Forest.

Along the way, they stop in Ulm, revisit favorite sights like the Ulm Münster and Rathaus, and settle into the beautiful 5’s Black Forest Resort Dollenberg for mountain views, peaceful walks, half-board dining, cuckoo clocks, and a very special 11th birthday celebration for her son Graeme.

Travel and Experience Highlights

STAY

• Schwarzwald Resort Dollenberg - A beautiful Black Forest resort with sweeping mountain views, spacious accommodations, half-board dining, walking paths, and a peaceful setting

EXPERIENCES

• Schwarzwald Museum - A museum dedicated to the culture, craftsmanship, and traditions of the Black Forest, including the region’s iconic clocks, music, and local history
• World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock - A memorable stop in Triberg and a fun way to experience one of the Black Forest’s most famous traditions on a larger-than-life scale
• Triberg Fantasy - A playful, interactive museum experience with colorful, immersive photo moments - especially fun for families and kids

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 Bohaboy Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

23. In the final installment of their South Africa family adventure, Jill and her son Luke discover why the vibrant coastal town of Cape Town is considered one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

From African penguins at Boulders Beach to sweeping views atop Table Mountain, Cape Town showcases the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. Along the way, the family discovers colorful neighborhoods, dramatic coastal scenery, and local traditions that make this city so memorable.

They also talk about:

• Driving the spectacular Chapman’s Peak coastal route
• Learning to make traditional Cape Malay dishes during a hands-on cooking class
• Exploring the Oranjezicht City Farm Market
• Taking the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
• Why Cape Town is an ideal destination for multigenerational family travel
• Spending time with their driver and guide, Faiez, who helped bring the region to life.

Travel and experience highlights

STAY

• The Cellars-Hohenort - our home base in Cape Town’s historic Constantia Valley. This elegant five-star property features beautiful gardens, mountain views, multiple pools, and easy access to both the city and the waterfront. We stayed in the spacious Liz McGrath Villa, which was perfect for our family group.

DINING

• Mariners Warf - A Hout Bay favorite known for fresh seafood, fish and chips, and waterfront views
• Tang at V&A Waterfront - A stylish dining destination blending Asian-inspired cuisine with vibrant waterfront atmosphere
• Gibson’s Gourmet Burgers & Ribs - Famous for its over-the-top milkshakes, including the Chocolate Nemesis Freak Shake that quickly became a family favorite
• Simon’s Restaurant at Groot Constantia - A beautiful lunch stop set within South Africa’s oldest wine estate

EXPERIENCES

• Oraniezicht City Farm Market - A vibrant community market featuring local produce, prepared foods, crafts, and artisan products
• Lekka Kombuis Cooking Experience - A hands-on Cape Malay cooking class with Gamidah inside her home, where we learned to make chicken curry, samosas, rotis, and other local specialties
• Table Mountain Aerial Cableway - The rotating cable car that carries visitors to the summit of Table Mountain for panoramic views of Cape Town, Lion’s Head, and the surrounding coastline

WINE ESTATES

• Groot Constantia Wine Estate - Established in 1685, this historic property is South Africa’s oldest wine state and offeres beautiful grounds, tastings, and a glimpse into the country’s winemaking history

TRANSPORTATION

• Cape Horizons Transfers - Our trusted transportation partner throughout the Cape Town region. Faiez’s local knowledge and recommendations helped make many of our favorite experiences possible

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 Bohaboy Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

22. In part two of our South Africa family adventure, Jill and her family trade safari vehicles for vineyard views as they explore the spectacular wine regions of Franschhoek.

Often called the food and wine capital of South Africa, Franschhoek combines centuries-old vineyards, dramatic mountain scenery, world-class restaurants, and charming small town streets. Over several days, they experienced everything from olive oil tastings and chocolate-making to unforgettable meals, historical landmarks, and some of the world's most beautiful wine estates.

Along the way, husband Paul, son Luke, and the rest of the family discover that wine country offers much more than wine. With plenty of activities, great food, and memorable experiences for travelers of every age.

They also talk about:

• visiting Drakenstein prison, where Nelson Mandela spent his final years before his release
• Why South Africa’s wine country works surprisingly well for multigenerational travel is surprisingly well
• Golf, shopping, gardens, farm visits, and plenty of opportunities for kids to explore

Travel and experience highlights

STAY

• Le Quartier Francais, Leau Collection - our home base in Franschhoek, featuring a Private cottage with multiple bedrooms, outdoor living spaces, and easy access to the towns, restaurants, and shops

DINING

• La Petite Columbe - one of South Africa’s most celebrated fine dining restaurants, known for its imaginative, multicourse tasting menus, exceptional service, and stunning vineyard setting

EXPERIENCES

• Babylonstoren - A working farm, garden, winery, and culinary destination offering visitors a chance to explore orchards, vineyards, and farm-to-table dining experiences
• Drakenstein prison - the historic site where Nelson Mandela spent the final years of his imprisonment before his release in 1990
• Hueguenot Fine Chocolates - a hands-on chocolate experience in downtown Franschhoek, where we learned the art of chocolate making while creating our own sweet treats

WINE ESTATES

• Delaire Graff Estate - A spectacular wine estate featuring award-winning wines, sculpture gardens, mountain views, and beautifully landscaped grounds
• Ernie Els Wines - A stunning Stellenbosch wine estate founded by the legendary golfer, featuring expansive views, generous tastings, and a family-friendly atmosphere
• Vergelegen Wine Estate - One of South Africa’s most historic wine farms, known for its gardens, ancient camphor trees, wine tastings, and beautiful walking trails

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 Bohaboy Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

21. Join Jill and her family as they journey from Cape Town to Gondwana Game Reserve for an unforgettable stay at this private retreat, featuring game drives, a personal guide, and sweeping mountain views.

From early morning safaris to evenings around the braai, this episode captures the excitement, beauty, and quiet family moments that made the experience memorable.

Along the way, Jill, husband Paul, and son Graeme talk about their encounters with rhinos, elephants, lions, cheetahs, Cape buffalo, wildebeest, and more, while learning about the conservation work happening across the reserve.

They also talk about:

• Traveling to South Africa as a family
• South African food, coffee, and braais
• Wildlife sightings right outside the villa
• Why private safari rhythms worked so well for multigenerational travel

Travel & Experience Highlights

• Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers - Our family’s landing spot after arriving in Cape Town, before heading east toward safari country.
• La Belle Alliance Restaurant & Farm Stall - A charming stop along the drive from Cape Town to Gondwana. Perfect for stretching your legs, grabbing lunch, and soaking in the countryside.
• Cape Horizons Transfers - Private transfer service used for transportation between Cape Town and Gondwana Game Reserve.
• Gondwana Game Reserve - A luxury private game reserve in South Africa’s Western Cape known for Big Five safaris, conservation efforts, and dramatic mountain scenery. The reserve is also home to important protected species, including bontebok and Cape mountain zebra.
• Black Rhino House at Gondwana - A fully serviced private safari villa featuring a dedicated chef, private field guide, exclusive game vehicle, pool, outdoor living spaces, and panoramic valley views. Ideal for families and small groups wanting a more intimate safari experience

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 Bohaboy Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

20. Join Jill and her friend Whitney as they check off a true bucket-list moment from their girls trip: heading into and out of Machu Picchu in style aboard the iconic Belmond Hiram Bingham Train.

Named after the explorer, Hiram Bingham, this isn't just transportation, it's an experience in itself. The journey blends old-world glamour with Peruvian culture; polished wood interiors, live music, elevated dining, and cocktails that never seem to run dry - all designed to be savored as the atmosphere builds from relaxed and refined into a more festive, celebratory return.

In this episode, Jill and Whitney share what it’s really like to experience one of the world’s most luxurious train journeys - including what to prioritize, what surprised them, and why the return journey might be the true highlight.

Travel & Experience Highlights

• Belmond Hiram Bingham Train - The most luxurious way to reach Machu Picchu, with 1920s-inspired elegance, panoramic windows, a dining car, bar car, and open-air observation deck. Expect gourmet dining, curated cocktails, and live music as the Andes roll by.
• Enigma Travel - They handle everything from expert guides to meaningful cultural experiences - the kind of details that turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.
• Huffman Travel - The team behind making it all feel seamless. From big-picture planning to elevated touches, they help design trips that feel thoughtful, personal, and just the right amount of luxe.

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 Bohaboy Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

19.2 Join Jill and her crew, including friends Amy and Kelly, as they continue their journey through Peru’s Sacred Valley - where the experience goes deeper than the views and into the heart of the Andean culture.

In Part 2 of the Sacred Valley, this girls trip shifts from adventure to connection - exploring what it means to truly experience a place, not just see it. From wandering through the last living Inca village to sharing in a powerful Pachamma ceremony, this episode is about slowing down, being present, and embracing traditions passed down for centuries.

As a part of our Peru series (Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lima, and now the Sacred Valley), this episode brings everything together - reminding us that the most meaningful moments in travel are often the ones we don’t expect.

Travel & Experience Highlights

• Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado - This is the Sacred Valley vibe. Think cozy rooms with private terraces, river views, morning coffee with mountain air, and wandering the property in robes on your way to breakfast (or feeding baby alpacas). No TVs means you actually unplug - but between the scenery, spa, and wine, you won’t miss a thing.

• Farm-to-Table Experience at Hacienda Sarapama - One of the most memorable meals of the trip. Set on a working farm known for Peru’s famous giant white corn, you’ll learn about traditional agriculture and enjoy a multi-course lunch.

• Trader Joe’s Giant Peruvian Inca Corn Snacks - This farm was the sole supplier for this Trader Joe’s snack! To be called Peruvian Incan Corn, it must be grown in the Sacred Valley.

• Enigma Travel - They handle everything from expert guides to meaningful cultural experiences - the kind of details that turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.
• Huffman Travel - The team behind making it all feel seamless. From big-picture planning to elevated touches, they help design trips that feel thoughtful, personal, and just the right amount of luxe.

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 Bohaboy Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler