Top 5 Alternative European Destinations (to Avoid the Crowds) with Joseph Reaney

Want to visit some of the less popular but equally epic destinations in Europe? Joseph Reaney is a freelance travel writer based in the UK and Czech Republic who’s written for Lonely Planet, DK Eyewitness, Fodor's Travel, National Geographic, and Rough Guides. In addition to his freelance writing, Joe is the founder and editor-in-chief of the travel content writing agency World Words, as well as a jobbing comedy writer/producer/director. In this episode, Joe and I talk about his life as a travel writer and his favorite alternatives to the more commonly visited places around Europe. He shares about his lifestyle living between cities, his experience taking a gap year to teach English in Nepal, tips for being a hospitable host and guest when couchsurfing, how he unexpectedly became a travel writer without any journalism training, and (of course!) his list of the top five alternative European destinations. Where would you want to visit first? Do you have your own alternative spot to add to the list? I'd love to hear what they are and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Premium Passport: Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click here to try Premium Passport for only $1. Tune In To Learn: Joe’s experience with budget traveling as a teen and what life is like splitting his time between Prague and Edinburgh with his family What he learned from taking a gap year and teaching English in Nepal at a Buddhist monastery Hospitality exchange and Joe’s tips for being a good couchsurfer and host How a trip to North Korea led to a career in travel writing How he makes a living as a writer and insight on scaling a business organically Where to enjoy a river cruise other than on the Danube and underrated mountain ranges in Eastern Europe The best city to visit if you love Prague and want cool alternative vibes Where you can scuba dive amongst WWI wreckage and explore neolithic stone circles The secluded coastal location that’s perfect for a getaway And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Today's Sponsors - US Bank, Roark, Loop Earplugs Visit Joe’s website and learn about his writing agency Grab a copy of Go Here Instead Want More? 5 Must See Destinations In 2023 with National Geographic Travel Senior Editor Amy Alipio (Plus Learn How To Successfully Pitch Nat Geo) Travel as a Force for Good, the Role of Travel Media, and Uncrowded Destinations to Visit with AFAR Co-Founder Greg Sullivan Best Remote Work + Digital Nomad Destinations 2023 (And Beyond) w/ Tim Leffel Thanks To Our Sponsors This episode is sponsored by US Bank's Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card, with the ability to earn up to 5x the points on travel-related expenses like hotels, and rental cars, this card will get you the most return on your next trip.  The best travel gear isn’t born in a factory but inspired by journeys taken by real people exploring the world. Get 15% off your first order at www.roark.com when you use the promo code TRAVEL15 at checkout! Upgrade your sleep at home and on the road! Get 10% off your pair of Loop Earplugs by visiting www.loopearplugs.com/zerototravel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices