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Welcome to Cheryl's Travel Blueprint! I’m a former Spanish teacher turned travel advisor, passionate about curating unforgettable experiences. My expertise lies in European adventures (with a special love for Spain), cruising, and all-inclusive Caribbean getaways. I specialize in creating tailored trips for families, multi-generational groups, and teachers—whether they’re traveling solo, with colleagues, or leading student groups.
In this podcast, we celebrate the joy of travel, uncover hidden gems, share practical tips and tricks, and embrace the spirit of adventure. Each episode features inspiring conversations with fascinating guests from all walks of life as they share their unique travel stories, lessons, and favorite destinations. Whether you're planning your next getaway or simply love to dream about the possibilities, this is your place to explore the world from wherever you are.
Let’s embark on this journey together! 🌍✈️
Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention please. Ready for an adventure? Whether you're revisiting cherished moments or planning new escapades, Nostalgic Travel Talks is here to inspire your wanderlust. Let's take off. Hello travelers and dreamers and welcome back to Nostalgic Travel Talks, the podcast where wanderlust meets wisdom. I'm your host Cheryl Johnson, founder of Nostalgic Travel, and today we're talking about something that's been on my mind and in the headlines a lot lately, over tourism. You know the feeling, standing shoulder-to-shoulder at the Trevi Fountain, inching through Las Ramblas in Barcelona or queuing forever to see the Mona Lisa, the magic can feel a little crowded. So what if I told you that there are equally charming, culturally rich alternatives to these bustling tourist hotspots? Places where you can actually hear the sounds of the city, taste the flavors without waiting in line, and connect with the locals. Today I'm sharing five popular cities burdened by over- and their underrated second city counterparts. These swaps give you all the beauty with less of the bustle. Let's dive in. Number one on the list is Barcelona. Barcelona is iconic but it's also overcrowded. Between Gaudi's masterpieces, the Gothic Quarter and the beach, it's no wonder it's a top European destination. But locals are feeling the pressure. So a second city pick could be for you Valencia. It's got beaches, cutting-edge architecture like the city of arts and sciences, and a vibrant food scene. Hello birthplace of Baella. It's slower paced and more affordable. And a bonus pick for you is Girona. It's just an hour from Barcelona. It's a an hour from Barcelona. It features city walls, riverside views, and even Game of Thrones filming spots. It's like stepping into a storybook. Second on my list is Venice. Venice is romantic for sure, but it's also sinking under the weight of cruise ship tourism. A second city pick would be Treviso. It's just 40 minutes away by train. It has similar canals and architecture but without the crowds. It's where locals live their best lives and Prosecco flows freely. A bonus for you is Bergemo. It's perched on a hill, it's a walled town and it has cobblestone streets, art and views that will make your jaw drop. Plus, you're just a short hop from Milan. Next we have Amsterdam. Amsterdam has it all. Canals, culture, and chaos. With millions of visitors and bikes dodging pedestrians, it's a lot. Utrecht is a university town with its own network of canals, cozy cafes, and an artsy vibe. Think Amsterdam with fewer bachelor parties. Also just 15 minutes from Amsterdam is Harlem. It boasts historic buildings, top-notch museums, and markets that feel straight out of a postcard. Fourth on my list is Paris. Paris is always a good idea until you're 45 minutes into a queue at the Louvre. A second city choice is Lyon. It's a UNESCO listed treasure where you can walk Roman ruins, taste the best of French cuisine and stroll the riverside like a local foodie. Strasbourg is another option. It's got a fairy tale old town, German-French fusion food, and a walkable layout. Plus it turns into a winter wonderland during Christmas markets. The last city I have on my list is Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik is stunning but Game of Thrones fans and cruise crowds have turned it into a tourism tornado. My second city pick is Shebenik. It's quieter and just as charming. It has medieval streets, historic cathedrals, and easy access to the beautiful Krakow waterfalls. And a bonus would be Rovinj. This coastal town is colorful, romantic, and full of Croatian-Italian charm. You'll feel like you discovered a secret. So there you have it. Five fabulous swaps to help you skip the crowds, support local economies, and have a richer travel experience. When you go beyond the brochure and explore second cities, you're not just avoiding long lines, you're discovering places that still feel authentic, unscripted, and totally unforgettable. Have a favorite second city or hidden gem you stumbled upon? I'd love to hear about it. Tag me at Nostalgic Travel Co or drop a comment on Instagram or in our Facebook group. Until next time, keep traveling thoughtfully and wandering well. Thank you for tuning in to Nostalgic Travel Talks. I hope today's episode inspired you to dive deeper into your next journey. If you enjoyed our conversation, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. It really helps others discover this show. And if you want to learn more, get more insider tips, exclusive travel deals, and personal stories, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Just head over to my website nostalgictravelco.com and hit subscribe. Until next time, keep exploring and keep nostalgictravelco.com and hit subscribe. Until next time, keep exploring and keep making those unforgettable travel memories.