Travel in 10: Travel Podcast

Amman is often overlooked as a culinary destination, but those who visit quickly discover a city defined by generous hospitality, deeply rooted food traditions, and a vibrant street culture. From humble breakfast dishes to elaborate celebratory meals, food in Jordan is not just sustenance, it is a shared cultural experience that brings people together.
In this episode, we explore Amman through its kitchens, markets, and local neighborhoods with insights from a local food tour operator, Lindsay Nieminen from AmanFoodTours.com. The conversation highlights how stepping beyond hotel buffets opens up a more authentic and memorable understanding of Jordanian cuisine and culture. With its welcoming atmosphere and accessible food scene, Amman stands out as one of the Middle East’s most rewarding cities for culinary exploration.
Top Things to See & Do
Amman Food Tours – Guided culinary walks led by local female guides offering insight into Jordanian food, culture, and daily life.
Iraq Al-Amir Women’s Cooperative – A hands-on cooking experience showcasing traditional recipes while supporting local women.
Rainbow Street – A lively stretch of converted homes filled with restaurants, cafés, and shisha lounges, especially vibrant in the evening.
Where to Eat & Drink
Habiba – A famous alleyway dessert shop known for its iconic kunafa, often with lines of locals waiting.
Windmills Restaurant – A classic spot for mezze-style dining with an extensive selection of traditional appetizers followed by hearty mains.
Abu Jbara – A popular casual eatery blending street food and restaurant dining, known for dishes like fatteh.
Hashem Restaurant – A legendary, no-frills vegetarian institution serving falafel, hummus, and tea around the clock.
Can’t-Miss Experiences
• Trying mansaf, Jordan’s national dish, typically served during celebrations
• Watching maqluba flipped tableside and shared among a group
• Sampling ful for a traditional Jordanian breakfast
• Indulging in fresh kunafa from a local sweet shop
• Exploring late-night markets and tea culture across the city
Amman rewards travelers who are curious, open, and willing to engage with local culture through food. It is a city where meals are shared, conversations flow easily, and visitors are welcomed with genuine warmth. For those seeking an authentic and approachable Middle Eastern experience, Amman delivers with depth and character.
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The Peruvian Amazon offers one of the most immersive and accessible ways to experience the world’s largest rainforest. Centered around the remote gateway city of Iquitos, this region delivers a unique blend of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and river-based exploration that feels far removed from conventional travel.
In this episode, we break down the logistics of planning an Amazon river cruise, from flights into Lima and onward connections to Iquitos, to what life is like onboard a small expedition vessel. With insights from experienced traveler Chris Christiansen, host of the Amateur Traveler Podcast, the conversation highlights how surprisingly approachable this journey can be, even for those new to adventure travel.
Topics Covered
• Getting There & Logistics – Flying into Lima, connecting to Iquitos, and accessing remote river ports.
• River Cruise Experience – What to expect onboard a small expedition-style Amazon vessel.
• Daily Life in the Amazon – Excursions, wildlife viewing, and cultural interactions.
• Accessibility & Comfort – Why this trip is easier and more comfortable than many expect.
• Cost & Planning – Typical pricing, trip duration, and how to structure your itinerary.
Links referenced in this episode:
amateurtraveler.com

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This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com.

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The Amazon Rainforest remains one of the most iconic yet least understood travel experiences in the world. In this episode, David Brodie and guest Chris Christensen from the Amateur Traveler Podcast explore what it actually feels like to arrive in the Amazon, moving beyond expectations to uncover the scale, rhythm, and reality of life in one of Earth’s most remote regions.
Drawing on firsthand experiences from both the Peruvian and Ecuadorian Amazon, the conversation highlights the immense size of the rainforest, the seasonal shifts that shape daily life, and the balance between wildlife encounters and cultural immersion. From river level changes to village life, this episode offers a grounded perspective on what makes the Amazon such a distinctive and transformative destination.
Topics Covered
• Cultural Identity & Atmosphere – A living landscape shaped by river cycles, indigenous traditions, and evolving modern influences.
• Getting Around – River-based travel and seasonal accessibility define movement through the region.
• Food & Local Life – Agricultural cycles, fishing practices, and subsistence living tied to water levels.
• Wildlife Expectations – A realistic look at biodiversity, including birds, reptiles, and occasional mammals.
Final Thoughts
The Amazon is not a conventional travel destination. It rewards curiosity, patience, and openness to a different pace of life. For travelers seeking meaningful encounters with nature and culture, the Peruvian Amazon offers an experience that is both humbling and unforgettable.
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Links referenced in this episode:
voyascape.com
gadventures.com
amateurtraveler.com

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Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
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Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com.

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Mexico City is one of the largest and most compelling urban destinations in the world, home to more than 20 million people and an extraordinary mix of history, culture, and contemporary energy. With so many neighborhoods and hundreds of hotels to choose from, deciding where to stay can feel overwhelming.
This episode breaks down the best areas to stay in Mexico City along with standout hotels across different styles and budgets. Whether you are looking for a walkable neighborhood filled with cafes, a centrally located base for sightseeing, or a luxury retreat above the city’s energy, these recommendations focus on location, atmosphere, and overall travel experience.
How to Choose Where to Stay in Mexico City
The most important decision you will make is not just the hotel, but the neighborhood. Mexico City is vast, and traffic can be significant, so staying close to the experiences you care about will shape your trip.
If you are drawn to food, cafes, and a relaxed but stylish atmosphere, La Condesa is one of the best places to base yourself. If your focus is historic landmarks and first-time sightseeing, staying along Paseo de la Reforma offers central access. For upscale dining and shopping, Polanco is a strong option.
Best Areas to Stay
La Condesa
La Condesa is one of the most popular neighborhoods for travelers, and for good reason. It is highly walkable, filled with tree-lined streets, parks, cafes, and restaurants, and has a relaxed but design-forward feel. Staying here allows you to explore on foot and return easily in the evenings without dealing with traffic.
Centro Histórico and Paseo de la Reforma
For first-time visitors, staying near the historic center or along Paseo de la Reforma provides access to many of the city’s most important landmarks. This area connects you to major sights while still offering modern hotel options with strong amenities and views.
Polanco
Polanco is an upscale district known for high-end shopping, refined dining, and a more polished atmosphere. It is a great choice for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience with a quieter feel than the historic core.
Best Hotels in Mexico City
Condesa DF
A design-forward boutique hotel in the heart of La Condesa, Condesa DF is known for its rooftop bar and strong social atmosphere. It blends historic architecture with modern design and serves as both a hotel and a local gathering place, making it ideal for travelers who want to feel connected to the neighborhood.
Sheraton Mexico City Maria Isabel
Located directly on Paseo de la Reforma, this hotel offers one of the best-value central stays in the city. While the property is more traditional, its rooftop pool, lounge, and proximity to major attractions make it an excellent choice for first-time visitors.
St. Regis Mexico City
For a more elevated experience, the St. Regis delivers luxury with butler service, a full-service spa, and sweeping views over the city. It is particularly well suited for travelers who want a calm, refined retreat after busy days exploring.
Mondrian Mexico City Condesa
A newer addition to the Condesa hotel scene, the Mondrian offers large, stylish rooms and immediate access to the neighborhood’s best restaurants and cafes. Its modern design and location make it a strong choice for design-conscious travelers.
Casa Cuenca
Set in a restored Beaux-Arts mansion near Parque España, Casa Cuenca is an intimate 10-room boutique hotel focused on personalized service. It provides a quieter, more residential experience while still being steps from Condesa’s energy.
Hyatt Regency Mexico City
A reliable upscale option in Polanco, this hotel offers consistency, comfort, and easy access to parks, museums, and shopping. It is particularly well suited for business travelers or those seeking a more structured stay.
Andaz Mexico City Condesa
A contemporary lifestyle hotel with one of the standout rooftop bars in the city, the Andaz combines modern design with a prime Condesa location, making it a strong choice for travelers who value both style and atmosphere.
Key Sights Near These Hotels
El Zócalo remains the historic and cultural heart of the city, built on the site of the ancient Aztec capital and surrounded by major landmarks including the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace.
The Angel of Independence stands along Paseo de la Reforma and is one of the city’s most recognizable monuments.
Parque España offers a green escape within La Condesa and connects easily to some of the neighborhood’s best walking streets.
Where to Eat and Drink
Flower Shop Condesa is a unique concept that combines a working florist with a wine bar, offering a stylish but relaxed place to enjoy a drink in one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Hotels vs Airbnb in Mexico City
Hotels remain the dominant accommodation style in Mexico City, and for good reason. They offer consistent service, on-site support, and amenities that can make a significant difference in a large, fast-paced city.
Short stays tend to favor hotels, especially when factoring in cleaning fees and logistics with short-term rentals. For longer stays, some travelers may prefer apartment-style accommodations for access to kitchens and laundry, though availability can vary depending on local regulations.
Final Thoughts
Mexico City rewards thoughtful planning. Choosing the right neighborhood and hotel can turn a complex, sprawling city into an accessible and deeply enjoyable destination. Whether you prefer boutique design, central convenience, or luxury comfort, the city offers options that match every travel style.
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Disclosure
Some links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you use them to book, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the production of the Travel in 10 podcast.
Hosts: Tim Johnson, David Brodie
Series: Travel in 10
Destination: Mexico City, Mexico
Mentioned in this episode:
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This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com.

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Mexico City is one of the great food capitals of the world. In this episode, we explore a culinary scene that stretches from humble street tacos to internationally recognized fine dining.
Food is woven into everyday life across the city. Street vendors serve tacos for less than a dollar, neighborhood markets overflow with spices and ingredients, and acclaimed chefs reinterpret traditional Mexican dishes in elegant dining rooms.
The result is a food culture that is both deeply traditional and constantly evolving. Whether you are eating at a street stand or booking a Michelin-recognized restaurant, Mexico City delivers remarkable flavor and variety.
Topics Covered
• Street Food Culture – Why tacos al pastor define Mexico City's street food scene.
• Culinary Influences – How Lebanese cooking traditions helped shape one of the city’s most iconic dishes.
• Markets & Ingredients – The markets that supply the city’s kitchens and restaurants.
• Fine Dining – Michelin-recognized restaurants and chefs redefining Mexican cuisine.
• Local Food Tips – How to find the best tacos by following the locals.
Top Things to See & Do
Mercado de San Juan One of the city's best known culinary markets. Visitors will find chilies, spices, specialty ingredients, and prepared foods ranging from tacos to more adventurous local delicacies.
Central de Abastos The largest wholesale food market in the world, covering roughly 800 acres. Guided tours allow visitors to experience the massive marketplace that supplies much of the city's food industry.
Lorenzo Buttorini Street Taco Corridor A 12 block stretch famous for tacos al pastor stands. It is one of the best places in the city to experience Mexico City's signature street taco.
Plaza Rio de Janeiro A beautiful plaza surrounded by high quality restaurants, including several Michelin-recognized dining spots.
Plaza Giordano Bruno A lively neighborhood square known for street food vendors, churro stands, and live local music.

Where to Eat & Drink
Pujol One of Mexico City’s most celebrated restaurants. Known internationally for creative interpretations of traditional Mexican cuisine.
Sud 777 A Michelin-recognized restaurant serving refined contemporary Mexican cooking.
Cafe Toscano An elegant Italian restaurant near Plaza Rio de Janeiro offering classic European dishes.
Azul Historico Located inside a historic 17th century building. The restaurant serves elevated versions of traditional Mexican comfort dishes in a beautiful open courtyard setting.
Contramar A favorite seafood restaurant known for exceptionally fresh fish and signature dishes like grilled fish with adobo and shrimp tacos.
Casa de Tona A popular local spot famous for pozole, the traditional Mexican soup. Guests can customize the dish with a variety of toppings.

Neighborhoods to Explore
Roma One of the city's trendiest districts with an excellent concentration of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Condesa A leafy, walkable neighborhood known for its relaxed atmosphere and vibrant dining scene.

Can’t Miss Experiences
• Eating tacos al pastor from neighborhood street vendors
• Exploring Mercado de San Juan and tasting traditional ingredients
• Visiting Central de Abastos on a guided market tour
• Dining at Michelin-recognized restaurants around Plaza Rio de Janeiro
• Enjoying street food and live music at Plaza Giordano Bruno
Final Thoughts
Few cities offer the range of food experiences found in Mexico City. Street vendors, historic markets, and world-class restaurants all exist side by side, creating one of the most exciting culinary destinations in the world.
Follow Us & Stay Connected
Instagram: @voyascapemedia
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com.

For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Smart Travel Podcast