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Virtual Vacation Podcast

Join us on the Guidester podcast as we explore Europe’s beauty, history, and unique culture.

For a different view of Europe, you might consider a river cruise. From Paris to Le Havre in Normandy and back is filled with unbelievable scenery, food, and history. Jack Baumann relates what you can expect on a river cruise in France. [00:23] What do you see and expect on a river cruise from Paris...
Ancient volcanoes that are now lakes form the basis for unbelievable scenery and a great winemaking region near Rome. While Castelli Romani is also known for being the summer residence of the Pope, the region boasts quiet villages, festival celebrations, a moderate summer climate, and succulent strawberries. [00:39] Overview of the area Location Topography How...
Rome is a destination full of excitement, history, and culture. There is so much to see in the eternal city where do you begin? Well, that’s why there is Guidester! Jack Baumann relates what you can expect as an American tourist in Italy. [01:10] Getting into Italy in a pandemic. What do you have to have...
The Appian Way is the oldest road in Rome and one of the oldest continuously used roads in the entire world. What makes this road so special? What is the history that has captivated people for over 2500 years? Why is this one of Jack’s favorite places to visit and eat dinner? [00:43] The Pines...
The Rock. The name has been used in movies, as an actor’s nickname, and even the destination as a logo for an insurance company. Gibraltar is the original rock in southern Spain and has a deep heritage and long-standing point of being a strategic location at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. [01:47] Significance of...
We take travel for granted in today’s world. Way back in the day (a.k.a. The Ancient World), weekend getaways, day trips, and to a degree business trips did not even cross the minds of the people. Who did travel? Why did they travel? How did they travel? These are all questions that are answered in...
This isn’t your Hot Springs, Arkansas thermal bath area. Budapest is known as the city spas as it boasts more hot springs and medicinal baths than any capital city in the world! [02:46] Bath Crazy “Budapesht” not Budapest. [05:39] The Skinny on Thermal Baths 120 Hot Springs Romans and the Turks [09:10] These are spas,...
Istria is not a country but probably could be. It is part of three countries and offers a merging of cultures, food, history, language, and style. Michael Cross is our guest from Istria where his mother was born. He is part of the Italian Community of St. Louis and provides an understanding of the richness...
The Isle of Skye is Scotland’s top bucket list destination. One thing about Skye that will leave a lasting impression on you is the scenery. Just driving around, you can see many of Skye’s most majestic geological features, such as the Quiraing and Cuillin.  But be sure to take your sturdiest of boots and explore these...
When you mix culture, art, history, geography, flavors, cuisine, and people in everything you eat and drink, you get Paris! For all you food lovers out there who are going to Paris, you need to savor this episode. Get the culinary experience of a lifetime in Paris. [01:43] Paris-Food Capital of the World [02:52] Understanding...

Meet Your Hosts

Jack Baumann
Founder of Guidester

Jack Baumann has traveled frequently since he was a child, which sparked a passion for adventure, history, and cultural exchange. It was from this love of travel and learning that brought Jack to the U.K. to study for his Masters in Ancient Greek and Roman Archaeology. While studying in Cardiff Wales, he often traveled around Europe, and the idea for Guidester was born– along with his quest to help people travel better and smarter!

Arnold Stricker is host to the Saint Louis in Tune Podcast and fellow travel enthusiast. Arnold has a long background in education as a teacher, administrator, and adjunct instructor at the university level. He loves music (his training), history, culture, and loves international travel. 

Arnold Stricker
Arnold Stricker