In this Season 1 finale episode, I take you on a journey through Taiwan’s capital city, from its night markets and tea houses to its history of resilience and reinvention. Along the way, I explore Taiwan’s complex relationship with identity—one shaped by colonization, political shifts, and a culture that blends deep-rooted traditions with forward-thinking creativity. Through conversations with locals, tea masters, and my own travel companions, I piece together a story of a place that refuses to be defined by anyone but itself. This episode is about food, history, and the magic of slow, intentional living. But more than anything, it’s about the search for something bigger. A search that, by the end of my journey, led me somewhere I never could have anticipated. Press play, and let’s explore Taipei. Join me on Substack, TikTok, YouTube, and Globocurious.com for short stories, personal reflections, and travel guides.

Taipei is a city that blends the old and new, where towering skyscrapers rise beside centuries-old temples, and where street food is just as much an art form as fine dining. In this Carry-On episode, I’m breaking down everything you need to know to plan your own trip to Taiwan’s vibrant capital—including must-visit spots, essential eats, and travel tips to make the most of your time here. Join me on Substack, TikTok, YouTube, and Globocurious.com for short stories, personal reflections, and travel guides. What to See & Do Taipei 101 Dihua Street Yangmingshan National Park Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine National Taiwan Museum National Palace Museum Da'an Park 228 Peace Memorial Park Ximending Lungshan Temple Where to Eat & Drink Yongji Soy Milk Restaurant – A neighborhood favorite for classic Taiwanese breakfast, where we had steaming bowls of fresh soy milk, luóbo gāo (radish cakes), and dàn bǐng (egg crepes). Lao Jiang's House – A modern take on the traditional soy milk shop, perfect for a comforting breakfast before a day of exploring. Dog Japanese Restaurant – A fantastic sushi spot in the Ximending district, known for its fresh fish and casual, welcoming atmosphere. FuDaTong Tea Shop – A historic tea shop in Ximending, where we got a deep dive into Taiwan’s centuries-old tea culture and experienced a complimentary tasting. Liu Yu Tea Shop – A beautifully designed tea shop in Zhongzheng, offering hand-roasted oolong teas in an intimate setting. Simple Kaffa – A coffee shop on the 88th floor of Taipei 101, where you get the same panoramic city views as the observation deck—without the lines. Raohe Night Market – A must-visit for street food lovers, where we tried QQ sweet potato balls, rice rolls, and tanghulu while weaving through the packed market. Nanjichang Night Market – A local favorite, where I had passion fruit ice cream wrapped in rice paper with crushed peanuts and cilantro, plus a Taiwanese-style hot dog in a sticky rice bun. Getting Around Taipei’s MRT system is one of the cleanest and most efficient in the world. Grab an EasyCard at any station to use for trains, buses, and even convenience store purchases. Taxis and Uber are also available, but the MRT is almost always the best option. Special Considerations Cash is still king in many small restaurants and markets—always carry some NTD on hand. Tipping isn’t expected in Taiwan, except for tour guides and hotel staff. Respect the MRT etiquette—no eating, drinking, or loud conversations on public transit.

Skaneateles, New York, is a village where history and heritage run deep. In this episode of Globocurious, I explore my sister-in-law’s family ties to this All-American town, where generations have lived and worked on the same stretch of land for over 175 years. Along the way, I visit the Harriet Tubman House in Auburn, where extraordinary stories of courage and community come alive, and soak in the natural beauty of Skaneateles Lake and the surrounding Finger Lakes region of the U.S. This journey offers a heartfelt look at the connections between place, history, and family. Discover even more by following along with me on Substack and TikTok.

Looking for an All-American escape? Skaneateles, New York, is a picturesque Finger Lakes village brimming with charm, history, and natural beauty. In this Globocurious Carry-On episode, I’ll share how to make the most of your visit, from boat tours and lake adventures to exploring historic sites like the Harriet Tubman Home. Plus, you’ll get my favorite spots to eat and shop in the village. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just daydreaming, this episode has it all in just minutes. Listen to the immersive episode about Skaneateles for heartfelt stories, rich history, and a glimpse into lake life at its best. Where to Eat & Drink Valentine’s Pizza Sherwood Inn Doug’s Fish Fry Blue Water Grill What to Do & See Skaneateles Marina Midlakes Navigation Harriet Tubman Home Skaneateles Historical Society The Salt Museum Willard Memorial Chapel Green Lakes State Park Where to Stay The Sherwood Inn AirBnB VRBO

In this episode of Globocurious, we venture into Colombia’s Coffee Axis, the lush and vibrant Eje Cafetero region. Join me as I visit colorful towns like Salento and Filandia, learn about the intricate process of coffee cultivation at RECUCA, and marvel at the towering wax palms of the Valle de Cocora. Along the way, I explore the global impact of agricultural trade and reflect on the region’s incredible biodiversity. This episode is a celebration of the land, the culture, and the people who bring Colombia’s most famous export to life. Discover even more by following along with me on Instagram and TikTok.

Ready for a coffee-filled escape? In this Globocurious Carry-On episode, I’ll guide you through Colombia’s Coffee Axis, or Eje Cafetero. From climbing El Peñol to sipping coffee on authentic farms and exploring vibrant villages like Salento and Filandia, this is your ultimate itinerary for soaking in Colombia’s most scenic and caffeinated region. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or a nature lover, this episode has everything you need to plan a dream trip in just minutes. Listen to the immersive episode about the Coffee Axis to uncover the stories of coffee, culture, and connection that make this region unforgettable. Where to Eat & Drink La Remesa (Filandia) Donde Laurita (Salento) Tentaciones Salentinas (Desserts / Salento) What to Do & See Valle de Cocora Recuca Coffee Farm Mirador Colina Iluminada (Filandia) Where to Stay (Towns): Filandia Circasia Salento

Immerse yourself in the vibrant heartbeat of Medellín in this episode of Globocurious. Together, we’ll venture to Comuna 13, where music and art burst forth as symbols of transformation, and pause at the Casa Museo de la Memoria to uncover the lasting impacts of Colombia’s turbulent past. Along the way, you’ll meet locals who share their personal histories and learn about the city’s rich and complicated cultural past. This is Medellín as you’ve never experienced it before—personal, poignant, and profoundly captivating. Discover even more by following along with me on Instagram and TikTok.

Curious about Medellín? This Globocurious Carry-On episode is your perfect companion for planning a trip to Colombia’s City of Eternal Spring. From riding the iconic cable cars to discovering the artistic soul of Comuna 13, I’ll share my favorite stops, including where to eat, what to see, and how to navigate the city like a local. Whether you’re drawn to Medellín’s history, its vibrant food scene, or its breathtaking views, this episode gives you the full rundown in just a few minutes. Listen to the immersive episode about Medellín for an even deeper dive into this city’s captivating history and culture, and discover even more on Instagram and TikTok. Where to Eat & Drink Alambique Mamacita Medallo Mundo Verde Andres Carne De Res Medellin Hatoviejo What to Do & See Alpujarra Government Center El Hueco Shopping District Cable Car Ride (“Metrocable / Linea K”) Casa Museo de la Memoria Plaza Minorista El Peñón de Guatapé / Piedra del Peñol Comuna 13 Guatapé Day Trip Where to Stay (Neighborhood) El Poblado

On this episode of Globocurious, I take you behind the scenes of one of the world’s most exclusive dining experiences—The French Laundry. With a legacy as rich as its dishes, this three Michelin-starred restaurant combines hyper-local ingredients, culinary mastery, and a philosophy that pushes the boundaries of dining. Join me for an unforgettable 13-course meal, where I experience the famed Oysters and Pearls, truffle-topped mac and cheese, and countless surprising moments. But does the reality match the legend? We’ll explore the expectations, the magic, and the subtleties that make The French Laundry both iconic and, at times, enigmatic. Discover even more by following along with me on Instagram and TikTok.

Dreaming of Napa Valley? This Globocurious Carry-On episode packs in everything you need to plan the ultimate Napa escape! Join me as I break down the highlights of my Napa Valley adventure, from unforgettable vineyard tours at Pride Mountain and Spring Mountain to the legendary dining experience at The French Laundry. I’ll share essential tips on getting around, where to sip the best wines, and where to eat. Perfect for foodies, wine lovers, or anyone looking to indulge in the elegance of California’s wine country, this episode gives you the full itinerary in 10 minutes. Listen to the immersive episode about Napa Valley for the stories behind the wine, the food, and the magic of this iconic destination. Where to Eat & Drink The French Laundry The ArBARetum Gott’s Roadside Oxbow Public Market What to Do & See Pride Mountain Vineyards Spring Mountain Vineyard Where to Stay (Neighborhoods) Downtown Napa Saint Helena Yountville

In this episode of Globocurious, we dive deep into the heart of Napa Valley’s wine country, exploring the rich soils, complex techniques, and hidden stories that make this region world-famous. Join me as I tour iconic wineries like Pride Mountain Vineyards and Spring Mountain Vineyard, uncover the artistry behind each bottle, and get an inside look at the craft of winemaking from the experts themselves. Along the way, we experience Napa’s unique blend of luxury and authenticity and talk about what sets this valley apart. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just curious about the magic of Napa, this episode will leave you reaching for a glass.  Join me on Substack, TikTok, YouTube, and Globocurious.com for short stories, personal reflections, and travel guides.

Welcome to Globocurious, an immersive travel podcast that goes beyond the typical tourist checklist. Join me, Michelle Khouri—a podcast producer and former travel editor—as I journey to places that shape not only the way we see the world but also the way we see ourselves. In this trailer episode, I’ll give you a taste of what to expect each season: from deep explorations of vibrant destinations to Carry-On episodes where I’ll break down the essentials for planning your own trips. Let's be travel buddies! Find me on TikTok and Instagram (@globocurious) for behind-the-scenes adventures and travel tips. And visit Globocurious.com for travel guides, itineraries, and to subscribe to my newsletter, Globopost, for insider stories I don’t share anywhere else. If you’re curious about the world and the transformations it can bring, subscribe now, and get ready for a journey that’s as personal as it is global. Welcome to Globocurious.