Lisa Niver's Blog: We Said Go Travel, page 22

Embracing Adventure and Empowerment in Playa Del Carmen

Embracing Adventure and Empowerment: Reflecting on the Women’s Travel Fest at Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen

In the heart of the stunning coastal paradise of Playa Del Carmen, Mexico, I attended the inspirational Women’s Travel Fest being held this year at the Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen. It was my distinct honor to take the stage at this incredible event, sharing my journey and memoir, “Brave-ish,” with fellow women travelers from around the globe. As I reflect on my time there, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude to my friend and owner of the conference, Alexandra Jimenez who I met in 2012 when she started Travel Fashion Girl.

The Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen offers an array of experiences that cater to the soulful adventurer within each of us. From the moment you step foot onto the property, you are greeted by a fusion of modern luxury and ancient Mayan-inspired architecture. The entrance, reminiscent of a majestic Mayan temple, sets the stage for an unforgettable journey.

One cannot help but be captivated by the abundance of art scattered throughout the property, with over 200 pieces adorning the walls and open spaces. Notably, the renowned artist C��sar L��pez Negrete, known for his captivating works that blend traditional Mexican motifs with contemporary flair, has contributed to the vibrant tapestry of the resort. From life-size whale sharks on the wall by the infinity to the giant snake bench at the entrance, each piece tells a story and adds to the rich cultural experience of the resort.

One of the highlights of my stay was the opportunity to indulge in the rejuvenating treatments offered at the Cenote Spa. Nestled amidst the mangroves, the spa provides a sanctuary for relaxation and reflection. The magic massage, inspired by the mystical cenotes of the region, left me feeling renewed and invigorated.

For those seeking adventure, the Grand Hyatt offers an array of exhilarating activities. I loved my time ocean kayaking and watched as others did outside sunrise soul cycle starting their day with intention and vitality. I found my favorite dose of serenity at the lap pool in the spa which offers a tranquil almost secret retreat.

Watching the way the infinity pools reflected the clouds at sunset looked like a painting, it provided an awe-inspiring backdrop for relaxation after I gave my talk.

Of course, no visit to the Grand Hyatt would be complete without indulging in the culinary delights offered at the resort’s restaurants. With all dining options boasting ocean views, guests are treated to a feast for the senses as they savor the flavors of Mexico and beyond. For those with dietary restrictions, The Grill stands out as the only kosher restaurant in the area, offering a delectable selection of dishes to suit every palate.

But perhaps what makes the Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen truly special is its unwavering commitment to celebrating and honoring Mexican culture. From the vibrant paseo through the property to the cenote inspired spa and the incredible art, every aspect of the resort pays homage to the rich heritage of the region.

As I look back on my time at the Women’s Travel Fest, I am filled with a sense of awe and gratitude for the experiences shared and the connections made. It was a reminder of the power of travel to not only broaden our horizons but also to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. I eagerly await the opportunity to return to the enchanting shores of Playa Del Carmen and the warmth of the Grand Hyatt.

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PS LAX: Redefining Luxury Travel

In the bustling hub of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), where the chaos of travel often reigns supreme, there exists an oasis of tranquility and luxury known as PS LAX: The Private Suite. Tucked away discreetly from the masses, PS offers discerning travelers an unparalleled experience akin to living the life of a rock star. This exclusive retreat redefines the travel experience, offering discerning guests a haven of tranquility amidst the chaos of modern air travel.

Recently, I met a former owner of a private plane, who made the transition back to commercial travel, but with one non-negotiable condition ��� his journey must commence from PS. For him, the appeal lies in the seamless, drama-free experience offered by PS, where every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure a stress-free journey.

Imagine arriving at the airport and bypassing the usual hustle and bustle entirely. No lines for security checks, no waiting to hand over your luggage, and certainly no jostling through crowded terminals.

At PS, the journey begins with a touch of indulgence. Guests are welcomed with champagne and caviar in The Salon, setting the tone for a truly luxurious experience. As you savor the exquisite flavors, you’re enveloped in an ambiance of refinement and sophistication, preparing you for the journey ahead.

As you step into the serene realm of PS, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of exclusivity and refinement. The ambiance is reminiscent of a high-end country club, where every detail is meticulously curated to cater to the most discerning tastes. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or accompanied by furry friends, PS ensures that every aspect of your journey is tailored to perfection.

Upon arrival, guests have the option to indulge in top-quality food and drinks served in The Salon and Private Suites where plush seating and elegant d��cor set the stage for a culinary experience like no other.

In addition to the culinary delights, PS offers an array of salon services including massages, haircuts and manicures, ensuring that you look and feel your best before you embark on your journey. From the moment you step through the doors, a team of dedicated staff members is on hand to anticipate your every need, ensuring that your time at PS is nothing short of extraordinary.

Of course, no culinary experience would be complete without the perfect libations to accompany it. At PS, guests can enjoy a selection of top-shelf drinks, ranging from fine wines and spirits to bespoke cocktails crafted by expert mixologist in residence Adam. Whether you prefer a classic martini or a signature creation, the skilled bartenders at PS are dedicated to satisfying your every craving.

As you indulge in the culinary delights at PS from Chef Matt, you’re surrounded by an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication. Plush seating, tasteful decor, and attentive service create a sense of exclusivity, allowing you to relax and unwind in style before your journey begins.

Beyond the luxurious amenities and personalized service, PS offers something truly invaluable: peace of mind. I loved the food and all the comforts but my favorite part was the private car��from PS directly��to the plane. I liked��having the option to board��first and not feel trampled waiting for my turn to get onboard, however, you can choose to board last as you prefer.

For travelers like the gentleman I met, the ability to navigate the airport experience with ease and efficiency is priceless. It’s a testament to the transformative power of PS, where every aspect of the journey is designed to exceed expectations and redefine the concept of luxury travel. Last fall, PS opened its second location at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest airport in the world, and has additional locations in the pipeline, including the next openings in Dallas and Miami.

CLICK HERE for answers to FAQ–and see you soon at the back door to the airport!

The post PS LAX: Redefining Luxury Travel appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

PS LAX: Redefining Luxury Travel at Los Angeles International Airport

In the bustling hub of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), where the chaos of travel often reigns supreme, there exists an oasis of tranquility and luxury known as PS LAX: The Private Suite. Tucked away discreetly from the masses, PS LAX offers discerning travelers an unparalleled experience akin to living the life of a rock star. This exclusive retreat redefines the travel experience, offering discerning guests a haven of tranquility amidst the chaos of modern air travel.

Recently, I met a former owner of a private plane, who made the transition back to commercial travel, but with one non-negotiable condition ��� his journey must commence from PS LAX. For him, the appeal lies in the seamless, drama-free experience offered by PS LAX, where every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure a stress-free journey.

Imagine arriving at the airport and bypassing the usual hustle and bustle entirely. No lines for security checks, no waiting to hand over your luggage, and certainly no jostling through crowded terminals.

At PS LAX, the journey begins with a touch of indulgence. Guests are welcomed with champagne and caviar in the Salon, setting the tone for a truly luxurious experience. As you savor the exquisite flavors, you’re enveloped in an ambiance of refinement and sophistication, preparing you for the journey ahead.

As you step into the serene realm of PS LAX, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of exclusivity and refinement. The ambiance is reminiscent of a high-end country club, where every detail is meticulously curated to cater to the most discerning tastes. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or accompanied by furry friends, PS LAX ensures that every aspect of your journey is tailored to perfection.

Upon arrival, guests have the option to indulge in top-quality food and drinks served in the Salon and where plush seating and elegant d��cor set the stage for a culinary experience like no other.

In addition to the culinary delights, PS LAX offers an array of salon services including massages, haircuts and manicures, ensuring that you look and feel your best before you embark on your journey. From the moment you step through the doors, a team of dedicated staff members is on hand to anticipate your every need, ensuring that your time at PS LAX is nothing short of extraordinary.

Of course, no culinary experience would be complete without the perfect libations to accompany it. At PS LAX, guests can enjoy a selection of top-shelf drinks, ranging from fine wines and spirits to bespoke cocktails crafted by expert mixologist in residence Adam. Whether you prefer a classic martini or a signature creation, the skilled bartenders at PS LAX are dedicated to satisfying your every craving.

As you indulge in the culinary delights of the Salon from Chef Jared, you’re surrounded by an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication. Plush seating, tasteful decor, and attentive service create a sense of exclusivity, allowing you to relax and unwind in style before your journey begins.

Beyond the luxurious amenities and personalized service, PS LAX offers something truly invaluable: peace of mind. I loved the food and all the comforts but my favorite part was the private car to the plane. I liked boarding first and not feeling a bit trampled waiting for my turn to get onboard.

For travelers like the gentleman I met, the ability to navigate the airport experience with ease and efficiency is priceless. It’s a testament to the transformative power of PS LAX, where every aspect of the journey is designed to exceed expectations and redefine the concept of luxury travel. PS is now open in Atlanta and more cities are coming soon.

CLICK HERE for answers to FAQ–and see you soon at the back door to the airport!

The post PS LAX: Redefining Luxury Travel at Los Angeles International Airport appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

International Speaker & Audiobook Available: Feb News 2024

Feb News 2024 with Lisa Niver & We Said Go Travel:Thank you for your support for my Brave-ish book tour! I was honored to be invited to speak in Mexico at the Women’s Travel Fest.I am THRILLED that the audiobook for my memoir, Brave-ish, is now available! You can find it everywhere you purchase audiobooks! AND!!! I am the narrator! Did you know that authors have to audition to narrate their books?!!? THANK YOU KTLA TV LOS ANGELES for including me in your LIVE coverage from the Los Angeles Travel Show where I was speaking about bravery and signing my book at Vroman’s Bookstore booth. Did you know I travel with a hula-hoop? Learn more from REACH TV:

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EVENTS

Thank you to everyone from my hometown of Los Angeles who joined me at the LA Travel and Adventure Show. I loved signing my book for you at the Vroman’s Bookstore booth!

Thanks again to Women’s Travel Fest Coming soon–meet me in Utah at the Women in Travel Summit in April!

Learn more about my events: click here and my articles here

NEW PRESS INTERVIEWS: Erin Myers Interviews Travel Expert Lisa Niver In The Brasil Booth

KTLA TV Los Angeles: Live from LA Travel Show Erin Myers interviews Travel Expert Lisa Niver in the Brasil booth about her memoir, Brave-ish, and where to travel next.

Watch Interview

Women Who Travel Podcast: Your Love And Travel Stories

Women Who Travel Podcast: Your Love and Travel Stories: Tales of breakups, hookups, and more in honor of Valentine���s Day. What an honor for Lisa Niver���s ���FLING AT THE FAIRMONT��� to be included. ���It���s fun, it���s candid, it���s certainly not hallmark.���

Read Article

Author Spotlight – Lisa Niver

HenLit Central focuses on ���life and lit��� for women over 40. Please enjoy this author spotlight on their site about Lisa Niver and her memoir, Brave-ish.

Read Article

Let’s Talk Memoir – Episode 75 Ft. Lisa Niver – Ronit Plank

Thank you Ronit Plank for including Brave-ish on your podcast, ���Let���s Talk Memoir��� and interviewing Lisa about ���Working with Developmental Editors and Book Coaches���

Listen Podcast

Journey To Healing And Empowerment: 5 Steps To Thrive After Divorce

Thank you to Divorcing Well Magazine for inviting me to share my ���JOURNEY TO HEALING AND EMPOWERMENT: 5 STEPS TO THRIVE AFTER DIVORCE.��� The emotional rollercoaster of going through a divorce was one of the most challenging experiences of my life. I hope these resources, will help others rebuild their lives with hope, resilience, and newfound strength.

THANK YOU for watching my podcast! It has now been seen and heard in 42 countries on 6 continents!

USA   India Canada   Ireland Puerto Rico   UK    Italy   Australia  Philippines Singapore   New Zealand Portugal Saudi Arabia Switzerland Hong Kong    Mexico   Japan  Fiji Seychelles France Latvia   Netherlands   Kenya   UAE Cambodia Israel Guatemala Germany Uruguay Bangladesh Spain Panama Thailand Uganda    Greece   South Africa  Costa Rica  Bosnia and Herzegovina   Sri LankaRomania Pakistan Ghana  

WATCH my podcast, “MAKE YOUR OWN MAP: Are YOU ready to be BRAVE?” on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Podcast,  Google Podcasts, Audacy, Audible, Anchor, Pandora & iHeart Radio

WHERE CAN YOU FIND MY TRAVEL VIDEOS?

Here is the link to my video channel on YouTube where I have over TWO MILLION views on YouTube! (now at: 2,085,500)

Thank you for your support! Are you one of my 4,240 subscribers? I hope you will join me and subscribe! For more We Said Go Travel articles, TV segments, videos and social media: CLICK HERE

Find me on social media with over 150,000 followers. Please follow  on TikTok: @LisaNiver, Twitter at @LisaNiver, Instagram @LisaNiver and on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, and at LisaNiver.com.

My Podcast: “Make Your Own Map!”

Fortune Cookie SAID:

Keep moving forward, and watch your aspirations come to life

Even the smallest steps can lead to the biggest dreams. Believe in the journey.”

The post International Speaker & Audiobook Available: Feb News 2024 appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

Brave-ish is now an AudioBook!

STARTING TODAY: FEBRUARY 27, 2024: Brave-ish is now an AudioBook!

My memoir, Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty, is now available as a paperbook, e-book and an audiobook. Find it wherever you listen!!

Order now ���

From Recorded Books, Tantor Audio, Mosaic Audio and Post Hill Press:

NARRATED BY LISA NIVER!Buy on AUDIBLE FROM Barnes & Noble: BRAVE-ISH: ONE BREAKUP, SIX CONTINENTS AND FEELING FEARLESS AFTER FIFTY ORDER NOW

Although Lisa Niver has traveled in far-off locales from Vanuatu to Nepal and received numerous accolades for both her writing and her top ranked website, what people don���t realize is that this began from the wreckage of a rotten romance.

Newlywed Niver was on the adventure of a lifetime. She had quit her job, rented out her condo, and was traveling around Asia. To the outside world, Niver was a woman living out her dreams of exploring ancient ruins in Cambodia and seeing orangutans in Borneo. In private, she was keeping a dark secret. But, when she found herself lying on a sidewalk in Thailand, looking up at the sky in severe pain, she knew things had to change. At age forty-seven, Niver found the courage to set course on a new life.

Feeling like a failure, pushing fifty, and moving home to her parents��� house to start again from scratch, Niver started taking one tiny ���brave-ish��� step at a time to take her life far away from the old one and into the adventurous world of travel writing. These small hurdles led to the challenge of trying fifty new things before turning fifty. From diving into shipwrecks, swimming with sharks, bobsledding at 3 Gs, to indulging in wild escapades, Niver found herself traversing the world on a journey of reinvention, personal growth, and discovering what it actually means to be ���brave.���

While Brave-ish chronicles Niver���s inspiring expeditions to distant corners of the world including Myanmar, Cuba, Morocco, Kenya and Mongolia this is more than a travelogue. Niver���s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of perseverance. Brave-ish inspires readers to dream big, take risks, and embrace the unknown to create a life filled with wonder and excitement, even when courage seems elusive.

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler Women Who Travel Book Club: 10 New Books We Can’t Wait to Read this Fall ��� As seen in Forbes Best New Non-Fiction ��� I am honored that my book, Brave-ish, is a semi-finalist for the 2023 Hearten Book Awards for Inspiring & Uplifting Non-Fiction ��� Goody Business Book Awards Winner / Self-Help – Memoir ��� The Zibby Awards Finalist – Best Book For The Strong Woman ���LOVED THIS BOOK!Niver���s book has inspired me to be more Brave-ish in my everyday life. I consider myself a well-traveled person but after reading about her travel adventures I have added more items to my bucket list. I think this would be a great read for book clubs.JENNIFER ZEPERNICKENGAGING AND ENTERTAINING TRAVELOGUE, AND INSPIRATIONAL FOR DIVORCED WOMEN EVERYWHEREI thoroughly enjoyed reading this engaging and entertaining account of the adventures that author Lisa Niver experienced during her international travels, particularly backpacking throughout Asia, and the fears she overcame in order to experience the adventures of becoming a diver���even swimming with the sharks! Niver has inspired me to set some challenges for myself! I’d also like to say that Niver’s book is also a journey of the soul, as she details the beginning, development, and dissolution of her marriage with Fred. The fact that she could emerge from that relationship without vitriol or vindictiveness directed at her former husband is a testimonial to her loving spirit. Niver simply accepts lessons learned and moves on with a life of positivity and productivity. She is a role model for divorced women everywhere. Brave-ish is definitely a book worth reading, no matter how old you are, or what your marital status is.TLMARZELLINSPIRATIONAL MEMOIR OF A WOMAN���S JOURNEYThis was an inspirational memoir of a woman’s journey from a very low place in her life to finding her own inner strength and going on the most amazing adventures. It is easy to lose our way and as she points out is never too late to re-center ourselves. I really admire her strength, determination and grit. It also shows that even the strongest have self crippling doubt that can prevent us from living our best lives. I am very appreciative that Lisa shared her story and was able to accomplish so much after her horrible marriage and divorce.LIZ TAYLORBRAVE + INSPIRING. A GREAT READ FOR SOLO TRAVELERS, ASPIRING TRAVEL WRITERS, & TIMID TRAVELERS.Lisa Niver makes the extraordinary relatable. Her voice is that of a friend you haven���t spoken with for ages. She���s made the bad choices and ignored the signs that so many of us do ��� you know, the ones that, in hindsight, were so strong that they might as well have been flashing neon signs ��� and come out stronger with an inspiring story to tell. Niver���s book inspires more than emotional strength and perseverance; as a travelogue should, it filled me with more wanderlust and a new list of places to put on my travel bucket list. I���ve been through bad relationships and ignored the flashing neon signs myself. I also started dipping my toes into the travel writing waters in my 40s, so I found Niver���s story extra encouraging.MELISSA PETERSONBRAVA: HOW TO BE BRAVEThere is nothing ish about it!!! Lisa Niver’s Brave-ish is simply brave. Niver���s writing draws you in as a co-traveler. Experience the challenges and joys life might bring us. Gain insight into the dynamics of happiness, anger, sadness, fear, and excitement of one life lived as a survivor and thriver. Yes. Lisa Niver has written a compelling memoir of her lived experiences and generously shares her life lessons with anyone brave- ish enough to read, reflect and let it in. I am glad I did.BODHIINSPIRATIONAL AND FUN READI read Lisa’s book in 2 days! She is my hero! She has done so much in such a short amount of time and has inspired me to want to do more for myself. Being defined by other people is not the path to happiness but being true to yourself and really accepting yourself is the start. Lisa shows us that getting out of your comfort zone, even if it is as small as opening the space between your clasped hands, is worth the risk. And, it’s wonderful to see it’s never too late to start being a little “Brave-ish”.”SCOTTBEYOND BRAVELisa���s is a story of recognizing and accepting that a major life change is needed, then let���s go, heals and excels in so many endeavors. Epically inspiring- couldn���t put it down.DEBRA SAROKINA MUST READ!!This book will take you on Lisa’s incredible journey! There are laughs and tears but most of all a book written from the heart. I wasn’t able to put it down . Fascinating twists and turns but an honest and real look at relationships, challenges and adventures. This is the second book I’ve read from Lisa Niver! I’m already looking forward to the 3rd!JWLOVED THIS BOOK!Niver���s book has inspired me to be more Brave-ish in my everyday life. I consider myself a well-traveled person but after reading about her travel adventures I have added more items to my bucket list. I think this would be a great read for book clubs.JENNIFER ZEPERNICKENGAGING AND ENTERTAINING TRAVELOGUE, AND INSPIRATIONAL FOR DIVORCED WOMEN EVERYWHEREI thoroughly enjoyed reading this engaging and entertaining account of the adventures that author Lisa Niver experienced during her international travels, particularly backpacking throughout Asia, and the fears she overcame in order to experience the adventures of becoming a diver���even swimming with the sharks! Niver has inspired me to set some challenges for myself! I’d also like to say that Niver’s book is also a journey of the soul, as she details the beginning, development, and dissolution of her marriage with Fred. The fact that she could emerge from that relationship without vitriol or vindictiveness directed at her former husband is a testimonial to her loving spirit. Niver simply accepts lessons learned and moves on with a life of positivity and productivity. She is a role model for divorced women everywhere. Brave-ish is definitely a book worth reading, no matter how old you are, or what your marital status is.TLMARZELLFind Braveish in the STRONG WOMAN section at Zibby���s Bookshop

More info: https://lisaniver.com/events

“Niver���s global travel exploits had me simultaneously chewing my fingernails and cheering her on as she challenged herself to greater and riskier feats in search of self. Compelling and engrossing. A must-read for fans of Wild and Eat, Pray, Love!”ALKA JOSHI

A New York Times Best Seller, a Reese Witherspoon x Hello Sunshine Book Club Pick- The Henna Artist, The Secret Keeper of Jaipur and The Perfumist of Paris

“Lisa Niver’s Brave-ish is a page-turner and inspiration for anyone who finds themselves at rock bottom in mid-life. Through both grand adventures and small, life-savoring gestures, Niver pieces herself back together after heartbreak and hardship. Readers will have the great pleasure of traveling the world through Niver’s stories and will be cheering her on. Don’t miss this book full of heart, adventure, and, of course, courage!”CHRISTIE TATE

A New York Times Best Seller, a Reese Witherspoon x Hello Sunshine Book Club Pick- GROUP and B.F.F.

“In a youth-obsessed culture where ageism has been called the ���last acceptable bias,��� Niver confronts her fears of being alone, supporting herself through travel, and starting over again in midlife. Her story illustrates that we can blaze our own path, if we are brave enough to begin with small steps.”HOLLY CASSANDRA CORBETT

Author of The Lost Girls, VP Consciously Unbiased

ABOUT LISA NIVER

Lisa Niver is an award-winning travel expert who has explored 102 countries on six continents. This University of Pennsylvania graduate sailed across the seas for seven years with Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Renaissance Cruises and spent three years backpacking across Asia. Discover her articles in publications from AARP: The Magazine and AAA Explorer to WIRED and Wharton Magazine, as well as her site WeSaidGoTravel.

On her award-winning global podcast, Make Your Own Map, Niver has interviewed Deepak Chopra, Olympic medalists, and numerous bestselling authors, and as a journalist has been invited to both the Oscars and the United Nations. For her print and digital stories as well as her television segments, she has been awarded three Southern California Journalism Awards and three National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards and been a finalist twenty-five times.

Named a #3 travel influencer for 2024, Niver talks travel on broadcast television at KTLA TV Los Angeles, her YouTube channel with over 2 million views, and in her memoir, Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty.

MEDIA INQUIRIES 

Literary agent: Chip MacGregor

Download Brave-ish media kit here

Media and Press

Author photo by Judith Gigliotti

More photos and information

BRAVE-ISH IS A TOP NEW RELEASE

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BRAVE-ish on Let’s Talk Memoir

Thank you to Ronit Plank for having me on her podcast, “Let’s Talk Memoir” episode 75 for our interview, “Working with Developmental Editors and Book and Proposal Coaches featuring Lisa Niver“

Lisa Niver joins Let���s Talk Memoir for a conversation about disagreeing and then agreeing with your agent, her career in travel, accountability groups, working with developmental editors and book and proposal coaches, divorce, all the non-writerly jobs being a published memoirist requires, and her new book��Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty.

PRE-ORDER NOW: The audiobook for Brave-ish launches FEB 27, 2024!

Lisa Niver joins Let���s Talk Memoir for a conversation about disagreeing and then agreeing with your agent, her career in travel, accountability groups, working with developmental editors and book and proposal coaches, divorce, all the non-writerly jobs being a published memoirist requires, and her new book Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty.

Also in this episode:

-taking time to rest

-switching where our memoirs begin

-asking for help

Books mentioned in this episode:

Getting Stones with the Savages by Maarten Troost

The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi

Super Survivors by David B, Feldman and  Lee Daniel Kravetz

Group by Christie Tate

BFF by Christie Tate

Maybe You Should Talk With Someone by Lori Gottlieb

Lisa Niver is an award-winning travel expert who has explored 102 countries on six continents. This University of Pennsylvania graduate sailed across the seas for seven years with Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Renaissance Cruises and spent three years backpacking across Asia. Discover her articles in publications from AARP: The Magazine and AAA Explorer to WIRED and Wharton Magazine, as well as her site WeSaidGoTravel.

On her award nominated global podcast, Make Your Own Map, Niver has interviewed Deepak Chopra, Olympic medalists, and numerous bestselling authors, and as a journalist has been invited to both the Oscars and the United Nations. For her print and digital stories as well as her television segments, she has been awarded three Southern California Journalism Awards and two National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards and been a finalist twenty-two times.

Named a #3 travel influencer for 2023, Niver talks travel on broadcast television at KTLA TV Los Angeles, her YouTube channel with over 2 million views, and in her memoir, Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty.

Lisa���s Series of articles on BOOK PROMOTION

Navigating Book Promotion: Expert Tips from PR Pros

Unlocking Book Promotion Success: Insider Strategies from PR Experts (Part 2)

Mastering Book Promotion Strategies: Proven Insights from PR Experts (Part 3)

Ronit���s writing has appeared in The Atlantic, The Rumpus, The New York Times, The Iowa Review, Hippocampus, The Washington Post, Writer���s Digest, American Literary Review, and elsewhere. Her memoir WHEN SHE COMES BACK about the loss of her mother to the guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh and their eventual reconciliation was named Finalist in the 2021 Housatonic Awards Awards, the 2021 Indie Excellence Awards, and was a 2021 Book Riot Best True Crime Book. Her short story collection HOME IS A MADE-UP PLACE won Hidden River Arts��� 2020 Eludia Award and the 2023 Page Turner Awards for Short Stories. She earned an MFA in Nonfiction Writing at Pacific University, is Creative Nonfiction Editor at The Citron Review, and lives in Seattle with her family where she teaches memoir workshops and is working on her next book.

More about Ronit: https://ronitplank.com

Sign up for monthly podcast and writing updates: https://bit.ly/33nyTKd

Follow Ronit:

https://www.instagram.com/ronitplank/

https://www.facebook.com/RonitPlank

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BRAVE-ish on HenLitCentral

Thank you to Carolyn and HenLitCentral for this spotlight article all about my memoir, BRAVE-ish! AND pre-order the AUDIOBOOK for Brave-ish! It comes out Feb 27, 2024 and is narrated by me, LISA NIVER, the AUTHOR!Meet Lisa Niver, an award-winning travel expert who has explored 102 countries on six continents. This University of Pennsylvania graduate sailed across the seas for seven
years with Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Renaissance Cruises and spent three years backpacking across Asia. Discover her articles in publications from AARP: The Magazine and AAA Explorer to WIRED and Wharton Magazine, as well as her site WeSaidGoTravel, which is #10 on the top 100 Travel Blog List for 2024.

On her award-winning global podcast, Make Your Own Map, Niver has interviewed Deepak Chopra, Olympic medalists, and numerous bestselling authors, and as a journalist has been invited to both the Oscars and the United Nations. For her print and digital stories as well as her television segments, she has been awarded three Southern California Journalism Awards and three National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards and been a finalist twenty-five times.

Named a #3 travel i nfluencer for 2024, Ni ver talks travel on broadcast television at KTLA TV Los Angeles, her YouTub e channel with over 2 million views, and in her award-winning memoir, Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty.

���In a youth-obsessed culture where ageism has been called the ���last acceptable bias,��� Niver confronts her fears of being alone, supporting herself through travel, and starting over again in midlife. Her story illustrates that we can blaze our own path, if we are brave enough to begin with small steps.��� HOLLY CASSANDRA CORBETT Author of The Lost Girls, VP Consciously Unbiased

LINK for BOOK: https://lisaniver.com/braveish/
Reviews: https://lisaniver.com/brave-ish-reviews/
PRESS: https://lisaniver.com/press/

READ EXCERPT OF BRAVE-ISH HERE!

Winner:  Goody Business Book Awards: Memoir/Self-Help
Runner-up: Zibby Awards: Best Book for The Strong Woman
Semi-Finalist (Was long list, then short list, now semi-finalist, waiting to hear about finalist) for The 2023 HEARTEN Book Awards Semi-Finalist for Inspiring & Uplifting Non-Fiction

Check out Lisa���s upcoming WOMEN���S TRAVEL FEST 2024 events here.

Book Summary:

Although Lisa Niver has traveled in far-off locales from Vanuatu to Nepal and received numerous accolades for both her writing and her top ranked website, what people don���t realize is that this began from the wreckage of a rotten romance.

Newlywed Niver was on the adventure of a lifetime. She had quit her job, rented out her condo, and was traveling around Asia. To the outside world, Niver was a woman living out her dreams of exploring ancient ruins in Cambodia and seeing orangutans in Borneo. In private, she was keeping a dark secret. But, when she found herself lying on a sidewalk in Thailand, looking up at the sky in severe pain, she knew things had to change. At age forty-seven, Niver found the courage to set course on a new life.

Feeling like a failure, pushing fifty, and moving home to her parents��� house to start again from scratch, Niver started taking one tiny ���brave-ish��� step at a time to take her life far away from the old one and into the adventurous world of travel writing. These small hurdles led to the challenge of trying fifty new things before turning fifty. From diving into shipwrecks, swimming with sharks, bobsledding at 3 Gs, to indulging in wild escapades, Niver found herself traversing the world on a journey of reinvention, personal growth, and discovering what it actually means to be ���brave.���

While Brave-ish chronicles Niver���s inspiring expeditions to distant corners of the world including Myanmar, Cuba, Morocco, Kenya and Mongolia this is more than a travelogue. Niver���s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of perseverance. Brave-ish inspires readers to dream big, take risks, and embrace the unknown to create a life filled with wonder and excitement, even when courage seems elusive.

Praise:Featured in Conde Nast Traveler Women Who Travel Book Club: 10 New Books We Can���t Wait to Read this Fall  https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/women-who-travel-book-club-fall-2023 

As seen in Forbes Best New Non-Fiction 
Read here!

���Niver���s global travel exploits had me simultaneously chewing my fingernails and cheering her on as she challenged herself to greater and riskier feats in search of self. Compelling and engrossing. A must-read for fans of Wild and Eat, Pray, Love!��� ALKA JOSHI A New York Times Best Seller, a Reese Witherspoon x Hello Sunshine Book Club Pick- The Henna Artist, The Secret Keeper of Jaipur and The Perfumist of Paris ���Lisa Niver���s Brave-ish is a page-turner and inspiration for anyone who finds themselves at rock bottom in mid-life. Through both grand adventures and small, life-savoring gestures, Niver pieces herself back together after heartbreak and hardship. Readers will have the great pleasure of traveling the world through Niver���s stories and will be cheering her on. Don���t miss this book full of heart, adventure, and, of course, courage!��� CHRISTIE TATE A New York Times Best Seller, a Reese Witherspoon x Hello Sunshine Book Club Pick- GROUP and B.F.F.Get in touch with Lisa here:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisaniver
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisaniver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisaniver
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisa.niver
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/wesaidgotravel/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaellenniver/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LisaNiver
web: We Said Go Travel: http://wesaidgotravel.com/

���Rife with witty banter. A laugh-out-loud family dramedy that feels like a much beloved night out with friends.�������ChickLit Cafe��
Women���s Fiction | Comedy Drama ��� Amazon

For fans of Maria Semple���s  Where���d You Go Bernadette  or Camille Pagan���s  I���m Fine and Neither Are You , comes the perfect laugh-out-loud dramedy AND THEN THERE’S MARGARET about marriage, midlife and a controlling, manipulative and self-absorbed mother-in-law thrown into the mix. MULTI-AWARD-WINNING debut novel, AND THEN THERE’S MARGARET, takes readers on a relatable and hilarious ride, as Allie realizes the only way to survive the angst of family is to let go���.and let be.

“Perfect for women���s fiction books club wanting to explore complex and turbulent family relationships. It���s a playful coming of (middle-age) novel.��� ��� IndieReader

When Allison Montgomery’s beloved father-in-law and long-time confidant passes away, her mother-in-law, Margaret, ‘temporarily’ moves in. From rearranging the furniture and taking over the kitchen, to undermining and embarrassing Allie at every turn, including funding her daughter’s escape, throwing a hissy fit at the mall, and publicly equating Allie’s glass of Chardonnay to full blown alcoholism, Margaret turns Allie’s life upside down causing her to bounce between a sincere desire to support her grieving mother-in-law and an intense urge to simply push her out of the nearest window.

Feeling annoyed, trapped and even a little childish, Allie struggles to avoid a complete meltdown with help from her fearless and audacious best friend, a plan for reinventing herself and enjoying a second act, and, yes, a few glasses of Chardonnay. Along the way, Allie discovers the reasons behind Margaret’s attitude toward her all these years. Does it help? Maybe…

2022 Chick Lit Cafe – CLC Book Excellence Award Winner – Women’s Fiction/Humor 2022 Indie Book Awards Finalist – Chick Lit (Fiction) 2022 Maxy Awards Winner – Literary & Humor 2022 Readers’ Choice Book Awards – Finalist – Best Adult Book 2022 Readers’ Favorite – Finalist – Humor/Comedy

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AARP: 7 Travel Podcasts For Your Airport Entertainment

Thank you AARP and Cheryl Maguire for including my podcast, Make Your Own Map, in the article, “7 Travel Podcasts You Can Listen to While Waiting in the Airport.”

BRENT PETERSEN, RADIO MISFITS / KELLY & LAVINIA / KIMBERLY TATE AND TAMARA GRUBER / IHEARTMEDIA, INC./DARLEY NEWMAN / LISANIVER.COM / 10XTRAVEL / WORLD FOOTPRINTS LLC / MIKALAI MANYSHAU/GETTY

7 Travel Podcasts You Can Listen to While Waiting in the Airport: Spend your time learning tips to maximize your travel experience

By Cheryl Maguire, AARP

Published January 16, 2024

One way you can plan for your next vacation is by listening to travel podcasts. You can also learn about places you might want to visit, or you can experience the destination if you���re unable to go there. We spoke to travel experts to find out which podcasts are worth listening to, especially if you are stuck waiting at the airport. We then spoke to the podcasters to learn more about their shows. The podcasts can be found on most major platforms. Here are the ones the experts recommend.

IHEARTMEDIA, INC./DARLEY NEWMAN / MIKALAI MANYSHAU/GETTY

Travels with Darley

Host: Darley Newman���

Traveler type: Travel like a local���

First episode: November 2023

Each episode of the Travels with Darley podcast is based on Darley Newman���s TV series that focuses on how to travel like a local around the world. ���I���m writing [the podcast] almost like it���s a book in a way, in which you are going to the location but you can really visualize it,��� she says. ���You���re experiencing the adventure in the journey, and there are practical travel tips or travel hacks within them.��� She creates an immersive feeling by including real-time background sounds. ���We���re white water rafting and you���re in the boat, you���re hearing the water or you���re hearing the guy yelling at you,��� she says.

LISANIVER.COM / MIKALAI MANYSHAU/GETTY

Make Your Own Map

Host: Lisa Niver���

Traveler type: Brave traveler

First episode: December 2022

Niver���s Make Your Own Map podcast focuses on how to step outside of your comfort zone. Niver began the podcast after she turned in the manuscript for her memoir, Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty. ���The focus of my podcast is the journey, which means different things in each episode,��� she says. ���When listening to my podcast, people will learn about the place or the person and get tips for how they can evolve as a traveler.���

WORLD FOOTPRINTS LLC / MIKALAI MANYSHAU/GETTY

World Footprints

Hosts: Tonya and Ian Fitzpatrick ���

Traveler type: Conscientious traveler

First episode: 2009

The husband and wife team of Tonya and Ian Fitzpatrick host the World Footprints podcast. Previously, they held jobs as lawyers; Tonya was also a White House appointee at the Department of Education. They bring their background of education and social justice to their episodes about travel. Originally, they had a show on terrestrial radio, then moved to a podcast format to have more freedom over what they produced. ���We love to tell the stories that nobody else is telling,��� says Tonya Fitzpatrick. There are ���so many gifts that travel offers us and we try to showcase those.���

KELLY & LAVINIA / MIKALAI MANYSHAU/GETTY

There She Goes

Hosts: Lavinia Spalding and Kelly Chappie

Traveler type: Storyteller traveler

First episode: April 2021

Lavinia Spalding and Kelly Chappie met each other through their husbands and decided during the pandemic to start the There She Goes podcast. Since they couldn���t travel, they were eager for something travel adjacent. Each episode features an essay written by a woman traveler; authors read their essay during the podcast. Chappie explains that each season is a combination of stories, what they evoke and where the people are going. She says they try to cover a broad range of story types and locations.

BRENT PETERSEN, RADIO MISFITS / MIKALAI MANYSHAU/GETTY

Destination Eat Drink

Host: Brent Petersen���

Traveler type: Foodie traveler

First episode: December 2018

Petersen began his podcast Destination Eat Drink after a 15-year career in radio. ���I love this idea of what we call in radio, theater of the mind,��� he says. He explains that means helping listeners create images in their mind as they listen to the story. ���My mantra in the podcast is: Food is culture, culture is food.��� In other words, you can learn a lot about people based on what they eat and how the food is prepared.

KIMBERLY TATE AND TAMARA GRUBER / MIKALAI MANYSHAU/GETTY

The Vacation Mavens

Hosts: Kim Tate and Tamara Gruber���

Traveler type: Family traveler

First episode: April 2016

The Vacation Mavens podcast is hosted by Kim Tate and Tamara Gruber. After meeting at a Kansas City travel conference in 2015, they started a podcast because of the lack of options focusing on family travel that weren���t related to RVs or Disney. Originally, their focus was on younger families, but now that their kids are teens, they also discuss topics such as ���momcations��� or girlfriend getaways. ���Tamara and I both love to share tips that help others plan vacations and get the most out of their trips,��� says Tate.

10XTRAVEL / MIKALAI MANYSHAU/GETTY

Takeoff: A Points and Miles Podcast by 10xTravel  ���

Hosts: Bryce Conway, Emily Jaeckel, Matt Brown and Travis Cormier

Traveler type: Reward traveler

First episode: June 2023

If you love reward points, then the Takeoff: A Points and Miles Podcast by 10xTravel is for you. The four hosts offer a comprehensive look into how to use travel-related reward programs to your advantage. They created a podcast after readers who took their free travel course requested an audio version. ���Our focus is to teach our audience how to use credit card points and miles to lower the cost of their travel and help them travel better,��� explains Emily Jaeckel.

Cheryl Maguire is a freelance writer whose work has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic, The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, Parents Magazine, Healthline and many other publications. She is a professional member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors. ���������

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THANK YOU Los Angeles Travel Show 2024

Thank you so much to the Travel and Adventure Show! I loved speaking in 2023 and 2024 in NYC, Dallas, Los Angeles and Chicago.

Thank you to KTLA TV News for including me in your live broadcast from the LA travel show at the Brasil booth with my memoir, Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty, and to talk about upcoming best travel spots!

My talk in LOS ANGELES at the Travel and Adventure Show “Are You Brave Enough? How to Make Your Dream Trip Happen” SUNDAY Feb 4, 2024 at 2:45pm at the Savvy Traveler Theater Thank you to Vroman’s Bookstore: I loved signing my book for everyone who bought it! SO SPECIAL! THANK YOU! Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty More about LISA NIVER:

In 2023, I spoke at the Travel and Adventure Show in Chicago, New York City, Los Angeles and Dallas.

I spoke at the Chicago Travel Show on January 13 and 14, 2024.

Come hear me speak in Feb 2024 at the Women’s Travel Fest in Mexico and in April 2024 at the Women in Travel Summit in Salt Lake City, Utah. For more about my future events, click here.

Lisa Niver, Pauline Frommer and Rick Steves at the Vroman’s Bookstore booth signing books!

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Hilton Cabana Miami Beach Resort: A Relaxed Retreat by the Sea

Nestled along the shores of Miami Beach on Millionaire’s Row, the Hilton Cabana Miami Beach Resort is a haven for travelers. With direct access to the beach and the nine-mile Miami Beachwalk, it’s a welcoming hotel that captures the lively spirit of Miami while providing a relaxed atmosphere that I personally love. Sit poolside in a cabana or steps away on the beach on a bright yellow lounge chair and soak up the sun while listening to the waves.

One standout for me is the commitment to sustainability ��� they even offer reusable water bottles to guests. The hotel has a rich history, dating back to 1951 when the Allison Resort first opened its doors, and the on-site restaurant pays homage to this history and it’s part of the North Beach Resort Historic District. Artfully designed with warm tones and bold touches, the resort���s newly renovated 231 Boho-Deco inspired accommodations represent a fusion of modern comfort and timeless Miami style.

What I really appreciate is the proximity to Miami’s attractions ��� South Beach, the Art Deco Historic District, and the vibrant nightlife of Ocean Drive are just a short drive away. Hilton Cabana Miami Beach is pet-friendly, a feature which adds an extra layer of inclusivity to the family-friendly experience.

Being part of the Hilton family is a bonus. I love accumulating points through the Hilton Honors program, enjoying those member-exclusive benefits, and being able to redeem rewards across the extensive Hilton hotel portfolio.

Moreover, besides the beach, Hilton Cabana Miami Beach Resort boasts a fitness center, multiple pools, and a great setting for families to unwind by the sea. Personally, I love how the beach feels more private and open, creating the perfect atmosphere for a leisurely walk. Plus, the speedy WiFi is a game-changer for me ��� staying connected has never been more convenient.

Rent a bike or paddleboard, and explore the area along the shoreline. An enjoyable experience is waiting you at Hilton Cabana Miami Beach Resort!

I have stayed at Hilton Hotels and Resorts around the world-see videos below of some of my favorites:

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