Comparing My Travel Style with Three Travel Celebrities' (& How Can I Afford It?)

[@chrisj.9882]

I'm sorry to hear views peaked two years ago for you. I hope you're able to do this for many decades to come.

[@jacobstratton1140]

Yes that’s surprising, I feel the videos just get better and better.

[@GeographyKing]

The channel is still going strong. But it's like any tv show- I'm on Season 8 and Season 6 may have been the most popular. But things are still good, and I am so happy to still be doing this after 8 years.

[@naptime0143]

​@@jacobstratton1140The algorithm constantly changes and stakes are much higher in order to go viral

[@nicoalex7954]

@@GeographyKingi feel like your channel follows a certain geography niche that doesn’t make you like other youtubers, so i think you’ll be having a pretty good fanbase long term

[@rosshere]

The "must be nice" comments are so true. You are exactly right most people that say that just don't have travel high on their priority. They would rather an expensive car, clothes etc. Although I'm not rich every year I make it a priority to plan one international trip. I find out how much it will cost then start budgeting. I sometimes will just have $auto deducted into a "travel account". If it's a personal priority for you you can make it happen.

[@jaretthale3379]

Kyle your videos are the best. You’re probably one of the most genuine guys on KZbin and the content is awesome. Keep it up, and I hope you keep getting more and more viewers and sponsors so you can still travel and also get a new phone that’s from this century haha

[@GeographyKing]

Thank you! I appreciate that

[@crabring]

Geography king talking about living thrifty. He's reached a new level of genius for me :-)

[@jag92949]

@@crabring Ivory Coast, Senegal, and Gambia are the thrifty destinations.

[@jacoboros9647]

Great insight. Your strategy reminds me of what my wife and I do domestically - we have a goal of visiting every US National Park. The way we do that is flying Southwest Airlines, using loyalty miles; staying in Airbnbs away from tourist areas; Turo rental cars instead of brand names like Enterprise; and eating at local digs instead of nice restaurants. You'd be surprised how much you can save when you prioritize what's important to you - for us, getting to hike in incredible destinations is worth far more than a couple nights in a luxury hotel.

[@moisesparra3835]

“Must be nice.” That’s exactly what someone said to me as I was on my way to Chile. Spot on.

[@JWhiz]

Bald and Bankrupt is one of my favorite travel channels. It’s really interesting to see him go to very off the beaten path places and see him interact with locals and get their stories. It’s also cool that everything he does is as minimal as possible, he doesn’t try to stay in expensive places or anything. He’s also very knowledgeable of the history of the countries he visits so his added commentary is interesting too and adds a lot to his videos especially when he visits big cities or big historical markers.

[@WyattWPenke]

I love your videos. This is by far my favorite channel. You shouldn't have to apologize or justify your travels.

[@valelavidavivir5842]

No need to apologize. Enjoy!!

[@thededoidheskey6128]

This channel is legendary, I hope it continues forever. Proper geography, proper knowledge, and proper advice. As long as this channel is around, I’ll always watch.

[@wesleynewsam]

Not having kids is probably the biggest one, but my wife and I also share one car between the two of us (and it's an older, cheaper car with lots of miles on it). Definitely makes a big difference toward letting us travel more often

[@NicksDynasty]

Get some more sponsors and travel more! We'd love to watch the extra content 👍🏿

[@cmcmcmcm2354]

Absolutely crazy to me I haven't subscribed yet. Been watching every video for 3 years and didn't think about it until you mentioned it in the outro of this video.

[@Jolene-n9o]

Same here and I just did.

[@MikeP2055]

I definitely use the Geography King technique for world travel, with just a dash of Rick Steves when necessary. I am by no means wealthy, but I got extremely lucky when I found my condo in 2002, I drive a practical, reliable car, no kids, never married, and can travel on the cheap pretty much whenever I want to. Within reason, of course. I can't drop everything and fly to Sydney tomorrow afternoon, but as winter really sets in I'll take a quick JetBlue flight to Long Beach for some sun just for the helluvit. It may sound pathetic to most people, but I almost prefer traveling solo. It depends on the destination, but I love the freedom of just flying by the seat of your pants.

[@KurtDepner]

Agreed, Kyle. Bought a small house and paid it off in 10 years. Paid cash for our cars. Even with limited incomes like ours, keeping costs low allow us to splurge on things like travel.

[@alancarpenter4904]

Great video ! I've been following Itchy Boots for about 5 years now and am able to see the world thru her eyes. I am not able to travel (and wouldn't want to fight the hassle). I strongly encourage folks to follow her. She has inspired this 74 yo retired guy to get out and travel on my motorcycle. And like Kyle said, you have to give up some of the luxury items to be able to afford to travel. I drive a 10 yo truck and 17 yo motorcycle (Suzuki DL-650) and that allows me to have $$ for other travel costs. Keep up the great work Kyle. I've been following you since you first appeared on YT.

[@garyholt8315]

don't think Kyle will be going to Iraq anytime soon.

[@rodrigojds]

You make it seem like a 10 year old truck is old! 😊

[@pyrho1]

I'm looking forward very much to the evolution of this channel. Good luck and be safe!

[@timmyborst]

Kyle, first off love your videos. This is my first time commenting. I understand your reluctance to go to France, and certainly there are so many places in the world to visit, but as a mono-lingual English speaking American who has visited France twice, I feel it’s incumbent upon me to stick up for French people. As I said, I’ve been twice, and I have found French people to be incredibly kind and lovely…far nicer than their reputation. I learned maybe 20 words of French, and almost certainly butchered the pronunciation of half of those words, but I found French people-Parisians, no less-to be incredibly polite, and very appreciative of me making even the most minimal effort. I don’t often comment on videos, but I really feel like the stereotype of French people as rude & dismissive of anyone who doesn’t speak French is way off. You don’t have to go to France, but I’m 99% certain that someone like you who A) speaks a bit of French (and is humble about maybe not being great at it) and B) is, as I’m certain you are, a respectful tourist, who’s genuinely interested in and curious about the culture you’re visiting, would be treated very well by the vast majority of French people. You definitely wouldn’t be kicked out.

[@GeographyKing]

Thanks for the insight. I got some side-eye for some funky French even in Ivory Coast, but in the end the communication was fine.

[@valelavidavivir5842]

I like your videos, Kyle. I am a geography freak. I love to travel. But at 66, it gets a bit harder. I really like to get to know a country too. Been to 26 different countries, half in the Western Hemisphere, half in the Eastern. Speaking Spanish has made Latin America much easier. Spanish will open doors to understanding. Chile is amazing. I know it better than Colombia or Mexico, but both of them are cool too. Chile just has so many different climates, the scenery is amazing and in country transportation really works, I like your prioritizing and helping people see how they can save to travel. Smart video.

[@santiagohills3997]

Rick Steves style has matured with his viewers. When I first saw him in the 1980s any sort of overseas travel was adventurous-no need to visit Benin, a couple weeks backpacking in core Europe was a very big deal. Recall that Eastern Europe was no-go.

[@mikeroberts7921]

I’ve gotten the, “Must be nice” vibe many times. I live frugally, and travel by searching for best flight deals, stay in hostels, avoid expensive cities, eat frequently from grocery stores. It can be done. Seen all 50 states, six continents, and 44 countries. Safe travels!

[@danielkoon1016]

My brother lives in Bangkok, travels SE Asia a lot (he's currently taking three weeks off to deliver blankets to those in need in North Thailand) but when he comes back for Christmas, he's splitting an Airbnb with our parents because Travel within the U.S. is too expensive. Definitely love the idea of choosing more cost effective and memorable places.

[@JoeBrantolino]

Thank you for sharing this with us. Keep up the good work for as long as you can. I will be looking forward to the next one. Enjoy all the travel you can do

[@jonaszannou-zoki2189]

He's really doing great works and going deeply in population is the best way to know much about the local community. Thanks Kyle for this beautiful work

[@VianoMusicAcademy]

Love your videos. I started an online music teaching business to travel the world. I give lessons to people back in my country 4 evenings a week, and I see the world the rest of the time. I stay in a city more or less as long as I like - sometimes 2 weeks, sometimes more, like 7 weeks in Cusco. Keep going with your videos. Your content is awesome, and we’d love to continue to see more of it!

[@connor9434]

good for you kyle. thank you for sharing your travels

[@classiclife7204]

Steves evolved into the American-friendly travel guide he became. (Not necessarily a compliment, btw.) He started out doing hardcore, "backdoor" travel experiences, a lot of hostels, backpacking, occasionally lesser-known places in Europe. That was the 80s. His favorite place was India, but he recognized early on that Americans would remain scared of India so he kept it to Europe and about halfway through the 90s, recognized that people with some disposable income would be the ones to take his tours and buy his books, so he adjusted accordingly, featuring firmly middle-class experiences, rather than purely "cultural tours" which never minded the discomfort. He left that stuff to people like Binsky and Itchy. Steves idea was, don't try so hard and learn how to be your own "fixer". (And you don't have to get a motorcycle license.) Travel vids by young and crazy kids are fun, but they're not travel guides. Steves does travel guides. Best advice Rick ever gave: pack light.

[@TheRustyLM]

Kills me seeing folks traveling with massive suitcases. While I have a large backpack for 3wks.

[@classiclife7204]

@@TheRustyLM Amen

[@Sir_Austin_T_Gee]

Having been out of the country, I almost prefer Rick Steves’ method in the United States, especially in places like Chicago, I’m not trying to be robbed in O-Block and well this is the USA so best believe I’d be shooting back no matter what Illinois has to say about my Texan ass doing so. Outside the U.S. it seems I’m more likely to be robbed in the touristy parts of the country and I literally can’t source a gun for protection and in some places *coughFRANCEcough* you’ll get in trouble for fighting the thief! It happened to me! I kept my stuff but had to deal with the police because I fought to keep MY stuff! I’d rather venture off into the depths of Siberia!

[@joeturner9692]

Great comment. Rick Steves has a lot of useful advice for travelers like me. I like Drew Binsky's channel but I would never take travel advice from him (he's lucky to still be alive).

[@classiclife7204]

@@joeturner9692 Thanks. Yeah I hear ya. Me too! They serve different purposes, these different tourers. But I'll say this: Steves always had the most practical advice, whether you were a starving sophomore or a plump retiree (like me). I learned so much from that guy. I've never taken his actual tours, but his recommendations guided my Euro travels - including the travel belt, which I wouldn't be caught dead wearing in the States, ha!

[@blivieriphoto]

I love that “must be nice” comment. Lol. I get that all the time. I’m single, no kids, own my own condo, bought it cheap years ago. Driving an older model SUV (I tent camp too). I live cheaply! These people could do the same if they just tightened their purse straps a bit. Great video Kyle! (And I love visiting Chattanooga!)

[@Jolene-n9o]

Kyle, been watching for a long time and I will subscribe now. It's been a nice ride and sorry I never did this sooner.

[@michelepayne3546]

Lots of respect to you on prioritizing experiences over consumerism! Anyways traveling light, both literally and figuratively, is the best way to go. As the saying goes, "let your memory be your travel bag".

[@renelc30]

Your videos are awesome man, keep it up and safe travels

[@stuartrollings602]

Howdy and thanks! itchy boots(Noraly) avoids big cities for the most part and the roads she takes show how many people live and the scenery is amazing. I am not interested in cities and enjoy the adventure side of travel. I have been to Africa 6 times and seen places that most people will never see, especially if on a tour of some kind. Enjoy your channel!

[@David-bh7hs]

I met rick steves in person two years ago speaking at my college - he was an incredibly funny and deep minded guy

[@garyholt8315]

kyle, canadian here, glad u r going to quebec. remember its a different dialect though. more canadian content would be a hoot !

[@tjanczy90]

Love your videos, definitely a unique take on travel and gives me great ideas for future trips. I would say I too prefer to travel light and on a budget, especially when going to wealthier countries. It's a great feeling knowing I saw so much and did so affordably. Also, I learned you are quite the car enthusiast. Congrats on the TL and farewell to the 370Z! Good to see trade-in is still so strong. I recently picked up a TLX myself :)

[@KRTX9552R]

"If you entered a new street where you never walked through, it's a little travel." - this is the saying I love. Where ever I go, there will be new findings, might be new country, new places, or might be the next town.

[@frankhack7562]

Nice video. It takes humility to recognize how luck and circumstances can play a role in our success.

[@holdenackerman8783]

I enjoyed your comments about wanting to go to Dakar and Abidjan, and I’ll hazard a guess as to where the idea came from. When I took French classes in high school, the units in textbooks would introduce new grammar and vocab and they’d always introduce a new setting in a francophone land. There was always a unit in Paris and a smaller French city, always one in Quebec, and always another in a francophone city in Africa. I recall one of the textbooks having unit set in Abidjan and another in Dakar. They’d have pictures from the two cities, lists of directions for how to get around, and that unit’s new grammar and vocab rules to learn. I’ve also been lucky in that I’ve gotten to travel to many of those places: I’ve seen Paris and Toulouse, been up to Quebec many times, and got to live in Senegal (thanks Peace Corps). People asked me in high school why I studied French given it’s “not practical,” and I’d tell them it’s spoken everywhere I wanted to go. Nice job making it to Abidjan before me, still high on my list. If you’ve made it this far into the comment, please enjoy your trip up to Quebec. I know you’ve been there before from a previous video, but you said people wouldn’t always speak French to you. The best way to practice French there is to avoid the cities, or at least the touristy areas. In the small towns, at gas stations, diners and bars, no one replied in English when I started speaking French. Keep making videos, we will keep watching :)

[@GeographyKing]

Thank you. I've only been to Montreal where most people speak English, but I plan on a smaller-town route through the province (plus Quebec City).

[@robinmorris8201]

France is my favorite country to visit. You are really missing out by not going. Everywhere is so beautiful with amazing food, art, and history. There is lots of beautiful nature too. The French have always been super nice to us, and they will appreciate any attempt to speak French. Just look at pictures of Provence, Colmar, St. Emilion, Annecy, etc... it is all worth visiting. I am definitely closer to Rick Steve's style, but I like really getting to know an area/country.

[@ecurewitz]

Different strokes for different folks

[@reddykilowatt]

Why he’s afraid of France is beyond me. I’ve been there twice and plan to go again next year and I don’t speak a word of French. Paris is a world city you can visit again and again and always find new things to see and do.🤷‍♂️

[@mattdenault6720]

I love the comparisons, of all the different philosophies. If the “unlimited” scenario was a thing I would want to do a mix of what Rick Steeves and you are doing. I would love to see the nitty gritty of many places along side the tourist wonders but on my own terms. I think young people who want to travel can take a lot of value in your strategy for sure!

[@AtulKedia]

Very nice summary of your philosophy! I agree a lot with the saving money on expenses part. Here in the US lots of people spend a huge amount on car like you mentioned about your friend. They often forget that travelling or just using a cars is not just about the fuel cost, but also the ownership, insurance, registration, maintenance, and sometimes even fixing a fender bender. Not owning a car itself can save one $5-8k a year (maybe you spend 2-3k extra on higher housing expense, publix transit pass, and occasional taxi but it still saves you money) , and even if car is necessary, an older car is much cheaper to not only own, but also to register and insure. When you're not using a car and rather going around by public transit, walking or biking you also see a lot more of the city or place you're in, because you're not focussed on keeping yourself and others safe on the road. My travel philosophy (for both where I live and when I travel ouside) has become travel to places/cities on public transit or walking and non personal vehicle. I had the pleasure to explore 4 northern italian cities this way this summer over 3 weeks and cannot state enough how beautiful it is to be on italian rail and strolling through old cities.

[@_corey_1124]

Keep up the international videos Kyle ! Long time viewer and traveler here (mostly Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East). Your videos have always inspired me, and now I’m considering heading to west Africa soon ; ) can’t wait to see your videos on Latin America, and let me know if you ever wanna visit peru since my gf lives there (I could definitely show you some cheap and off the beaten path places)

[@b0kb0k]

git on that girl! I *LOVE* cars - I love driving around the good old USA. I also love traveling, but it's not my (or my wife's) passion - we do it for fun. We enjoy watching you and others do the travel and getting a "taste" of it here/there. good stuff, keep it up!

[@GeographyKing]

I always find it ironic that car enthusiasts often pay less for cars because we're ok with specific used cars that we know are reliable and hopefully a little fun as well. I've gone from a 1976 Datsun 280Z (first car in 1994), to a 1988 Supra, a 1995 Mitsubishi 3000GT (ok, that one wasn't reliable), and a 2012 370Z. I bought all of them used and sold them with little or no loss. The Acura TL is a sign of me getting old. I do miss the third pedal though.

[@NicksDynasty]

I want to go everywhere especially Africa and Asia. Of course I want to visit Europe but I feel it will be more interesting and impactful spending my dollars in countries that aren't traditionally tourist destinations, especially in Africa. I mostly want to eat the local food,walk around the neighborhoods, ride transit and feel how the locals live. Of course, big attractions I would like to go to. I'm not much of a museum person but I like hikes, water stuff, plays, caves, tours and all the fun action stuff. I'll enjoy relaxing too Skiing is my biggest passion so anywhere there are great mountains I'm going to go. I'm a big points person so I like to transfer my Chase points to Hyatt to get the most value. I usually travel with my partner so we split the bill as well if it's in cash. I'm blessed to fly for free, so that's a huge advantage for me to see more places. If that were not the case, I would definitely travel way less than I do now. I like luxury hotels with my points and don't mind basic hotels when paying in cash. Obviously I want to be comfortable but I don't need fancy.

[@GeographyKing]

Your style sounds like mine (minus the skiing).

[@NicksDynasty]

@GeographyKing not into it? It's my favorite!!!

[@petemuellner1231]

In Chile, Atacama Desert and Patagonia, Andes Mtns are awesome. Did it with a tour company handling everything, made it a smooth vacation. Big cities in SA are like European cities, so stick to nature. Enjoyed this video.

[@b.w.9244]

Loved the vid! Can feel your passion for this! We didn't start our traveling life until old , lame, and retired. Some adventure travel will be off the table for us. Some of that is a young person's game. I could tell stories about running around in the back alleys of Kiev in 1980 though! Enjoyed Quebec. Took the train between Montreal, Quebec City and Ottawa. Will definitely get to use your French. Would recommend France. We enjoyed it. You speak more French than us for sure so at least you got that going for you. Not a budget trip for us...but maybe it could have been. I like your shirt. What's old is hip again!

[@DietIceWater]

My dude. Love your stuff. Keep up the cool work. I learn so much from you!

[@DietIceWater]

Ill add, the shirts are dope

[@Michele1573]

This is great insight and gave me a lot of things to think about. Thank you!

[@RobOlgatree]

Hi Kyle, love your channel. I have Egyptian, Iraq and Syrian markers in my genealogy but I know those countries are not easy or impossible for Americans to visit safely. I don't think it would be fun visiting them in today's world. I can do my other three traits, Scotland, Portugal and the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation in Qualla, NC

[@reddykilowatt]

Egypt is definitely doable.

[@NicksDynasty]

Love all the different videos you are putting out

[@GeographyKing]

You've probably got the best travel hack of them all! A good friend of mine is a FA and has been all over the world.

[@NicksDynasty]

@GeographyKing it is a mighty blessing that I love to share with my family. It unlocks so much I'm so grateful to the airlines. All employees get the same benefits, those on the ramp and in the corporate office

[@monkeybrowntown6338]

Thanks for all you do!

[@bailey2103-3]

My philosophy is a mixture. I first wanted to go the general areas of the globe to test it and see what I liked (Europe, East Asia, Middle- East North Africa, Latin America, etc.) Then I go back to the area I liked most and explore it in further depth (which for me personally is East Asia)

[@adamritter1396]

I am with you kyke! I travel to learn. Experiences over miles traveled and boxes checked off.

[@kcouche]

There are certain sights "you just gotta' see." After that, I'm a back roads and village guy. Likewise, small pensions, farms, "over-the-pubs" and the like are not only cheaper, they're more interesting. And food-wise, that's equally true. Local normal food is also more interesting than Michelan stars. Keep it up, Kyle!

[@taylorwisler3869]

Great video, thank you for these insights! I will say that not having kids is a huge advantage for being able to travel. My wife and I made the decision to start having kids young with the idea that we could travel more in our 50s and 60s since we won't have kids living at home then. We don't take any vacations except to visit family 1 state over, and while I wish we could travel the world, having 3 small kids at home costs a lot of time and money. Hopefully in 20-30 years we'll be adventuring like you are now!

[@ReverendMeat51]

For some of us who can't have kids and wish we could, travelling is nice but it feels like a band-aid on an open wound.

[@taylorwisler3869]

@ that’s tough, I hope you’re able to find joy in every circumstance. Travel is a great privilege in a different way than having kids is. I’m in a season of not really being able to travel but hopefully I will be years down the road. If you’re wanting to be in a season have having kids I hope that happens for you soon!

[@KS-lp3ui]

​@@ReverendMeat51 Solidarity. I always wanted to have kids once I got married, but it hasn't happened and now it's extremely unlikely in my mid 40s. There are positives to not having kids, of course, but no amount of travel can fill the void of not being a parent if that's what you wish for. (On top of that, my husband and I don't even do much traveling.)

[@TravelwithaWiseguy]

Really enjoyed this video! Thanks for making it!

[@elgreco75]

Great video, you should totally go to France someday, they will appreciate what ever effort you make to speak French. In my experience in Paris at least most people you will deal with speak some level of English if you ask nicely.

[@davidhumphrey2593]

Despite my years-long attraction to you, Rick Steves, and Drew Binsky, I had never heard of Itchy Boots before, which makes her Motorbike attraction intriguing!! 😅 I myself lived in Vietnam for a few months and took a Motorcycle to and from to work each and every day, so that’s awesome!! 😂

[@reddykilowatt]

scooter culture is huge in Vietnam 🛵

[@Aidan_Au]

Thanks Kyle. Rick Steves' grandparent(s) are actually from Norway. You can talk to him about travelling in Norway....

[@erynpimentel915]

Rick Steves is great and I’ve always loved his nerdy style. Hmm, I sense a theme! In recent years, Rick has expanded beyond Europe and has done some good episodes highlighting the poverty and realities of other countries, like in Africa and Central America for example. You can definitely make it to 50+ countries Kyle! You’ve almost made that many U.S. states and you can really knock them out by doing a handful of trips that hit multiple countries like in Europe or Central America

[@Markmygame]

If you're going to Quebec make sure you stop in Ottawa. They got the Parliament, national history museum, national military museum, cool aviation museum with a Hercules during the guided tour. I would skip the natural history museum and science museums. Their content is comparable to ours in the states. Also another must stop is the Defienbunker. Its the underground bunker that was for the govt to shelter and function from during a nuclear attack from the USSR.

[@GeographyKing]

I'll be starting from Detroit (where my friend lives), so I'll likely go through Ottawa on the way to Quebec.

[@marevico]

Glad you’re having fun and living life!

[@jar1345]

I really like to do something in between the two styles. Your video actually inspired me to go to Dominica and I did as much as and basically saw the whole country. On the way back I stopped in Puerto Rico and just saw San Juan and the bioluminescent bay since that was what I had time for. The length of Chile is one of my dreams as well so let me know when you start planning and maybe we can meet up lol

[@Markmygame]

This came at a perfect time. Im on a road trip from New England since Saturday until Dec 18th. Thats when my vacation time runs out. I visited the battlefield of Antietam and Harpers Ferry, soon it will be a big loop roughly from Harpers Ferry to Richmond to WV to Columbus then Akron to Harrisburg to Scranton and back home. I love this i was thinking how can i do these more often. Im lucky to say at the moment lack of vacation time, not money is my main hurdle. Looking forward to listening to this when i hit the road again

[@GeographyKing]

Sounds like a nice trip!

[@Markmygame]

@@GeographyKing its been great so far

[@jeffha4057]

Thank you for visiting unique places.

[@notquitebeats]

I would love to see a video comparing La county with Orange County!

[@coveringcambria]

Thank you

[@StamfordBridge]

Rick Steves is an example of a mind open to travel and opened by travel. I have found that in some respects, Drew Binsky does not fully live up to the latter. This is not to say Binsky is a terrible person -- not at all. But it is to say he would learn a lot by traveling with an old soul like Steves.

[@StamfordBridge]

@ Rick Steves gears his shows primarily to older Americans who are nervous about traveling, so I suspect he underplays his language abilities so as to assure monolinguists not to be afraid. Steves is very much interested in culture and includes a fair amount of it, but again his audience are generally not people looking for spelunking and camel riding. I won’t say your counter-points are all invalid - I know what you mean on a certain level - but Steves is an educated man in the best sense, I would say. Edit: And he’s very much a politically aware person, unlike, say, Binsky, but again he is trying to reach an audience that might be hesitant. His approach is actually political, but it is rather gentle and subtle in this regard.

[@johnchedsey1306]

My travel is mostly just out here in the American West, so it is by car. I didn't mind buying a used Honda for these trips because a) it's such a reliable vehicle and b) I love to drive. And since it was used, it was 15-20 grand cheaper than a lot of the new car models out there. But man, you're so right about how expensive it is to travel in the US. Even a Motel 6 can run upwards of a hundred bucks a night depending on where you are. Lunch can easily run 20-25 bucks if you're in any halfway decent sitdown place. I've been doing roadtrips for the past 11 years and it just gets more and more costly. My overseas travel was a long time ago doing roadcrew work for a touring band. That was a very different to see Europe and I got paid!

[@glennk.7348]

Great video! You remind me of the quote from 'Auntie Mame' 1958: 'Life is a Banquet, and Most Poor Suckers Are Starving to Death!’

[@farfetchedtangmo7474]

"It costs three weeks of lodging.." I love you!

[@margefoyle6796]

My philosophy on travel is probably closer to Rick Steve's than yours, but I want to do it all! Unfortunately, and this is something younger people need to keep in mind, my fitness level is not allowing me to do a lot of things I put off when I was younger and didn't have the time or money. But definitely make a top 5, top 10, etc, list (with your partn et if you have one) and get to them as quickly as possible. Funny about US travel being so expensive. It's so true. We spent 18 days road-tripping around France, and yeah, had was expensive, but the food and especially lodging was comparatively cheap. We have done many a road trip in the US and it cost more, unless you want to stay in a motel with a crusty shower and a bad bed - a deal breaker for our old backs. Anyway, great video and enjoy traveling while you can!

[@GeographyKing]

I hear you on that. I've got a bit of "traveler's mid-life crisis" where I want to visit some of the more difficult places while younger, and maybe lounge on the beach when I'm old!

[@bakarka]

It is beyond charming to see you light up about seeing Dakar and Abidjan. For some reason as I child I was enthralled with Afghanistan. I don't think I want to go there. You definitely chose well.

[@orangehogger]

I love your channel.

[@GeographyKing]

Thanks!

[@BDUBZ49]

Kyle, have you ever watched the British show Globe Trekker with Ian Wright? They go off the beaten path. Premiered in 1994 and ran for 17 seasons.

[@GeographyKing]

I am not familiar with the show. But I'll check it out to see what their travel style is.

[@BDUBZ49]

@@GeographyKing It was shown on PBS (in the Chicago area) on and off for many years. British traveler/comedian Ian Wright was the original host (for 50 episodes) but many others rotated in an out over the years. They went to many unusual places and preferred to kind of "rough it" compared to Rick Steves more sensible style.

[@garyholt8315]

Ian Wright was pretty cool !

[@BDUBZ49]

@@garyholt8315 Ian was awesome. I also liked Justine Shapiro and Meghan McCormick. Bradley Cooper hosted a number of episodes before his acting took off.

[@ryanhastie7693]

I really enjoyed hearing about your financial philosophy. Glad society hasn't beaten you down lol

[@michelepayne3546]

It'd be interesting to do a segment on the places we were fascinated by when we were children. For me, it was Lapland and Stonehenge that I was desperate to see 🙂

[@santiagohills3997]

Stonehenge is such a letdown. Right next to the freeway. I was expecting it to feel like an American national park, but like all the tourist sights in Europe it’s more like a Florida beach town. Exit through the gift shop.

[@reddykilowatt]

@@santiagohills3997its less than 400 feet in diameter. you don’t need Yosemite for that. 😂

[@mrsanchez7]

My travel philosophy (calling it that just for the sake of the question/topic) as a young adult was to move to places longer term and find ways to work if possible. I studied abroad for a semester in Merida, Mexico during college. Then, I was fortunate to be awarded a post graduate scholarship to Argentina, where I lived for a school year. That took me to Brazil, where I bummed around for 3 months and went into debt (it was worth it). After moving back to the US, and trying to start a career, I couldn’t kick the travel bug so I quit my corporate job and got a job teaching English in South Korea for a year. Met a Canadian girl there, and so I followed her to Montreal where I lived for 3 months. We then decided to get work and holiday visas for Australia where we lived and worked for a year. Could have done the same in New Zealand too but had a good job opportunity after all that in Austin, TX where we moved and have been for 9 years now, living a more traditional sedentary lifestyle. We travel somewhere nice for about 10 days every year or so, but it’s just not the same. Time is a bigger factor than money for us at this stage.

[@jaytaylor629]

I want to know what your thoughts are on a guy like Bald and Bankrupt because i love his channel. He isnt the number 1 guy for travel videos but they way he adventures is incredible

[@mew3782]

Bald's ego is so big that it detracts from his videos sometimes but I still enjoy them

[@GeographyKing]

I'm not familiar with the channel, but I have seen the thumbnails.

[@Double0pi]

One cheap travel tip I have is to use private rooms at hostels. I'm a light enough sleeper that I don't like staying in the dorm rooms (which are, admittedly, cheaper). But getting a private room is still pretty cheap. Downside is that you usually have to share a bathroom. I don't mind that--I already have to share with the grown son who lives with me at home! I got some super good deals when I was in Peru earlier this year: $15/night for a private room in a couple of places! I spent three times as much going to Alaska in 2022 as I did for the same length of trip in Peru.

[@Double0pi]

Also, a comment on traveling with kids: it's way cheaper if you road trip and camp. This does make international travel hard...but you can go lots of places. Learned this from my dad, kept it up with my own kids. Buy a national parks pass and you can see all sorts of cool stuff for cheap. Now my kids are grown, but I know that at least one buys himself a parks pass...

[@reddykilowatt]

I prioritize places of world cultural or natural significance. Stuff like the Pyramids, Machu Picchu, Angkor Wat, Lascaux, Patagonia, Denali, Serengeti. If I have to plan around limited time and money, I want to see and experience the best the world has to offer. I generally only do one big two to three week trip a year.

[@jamessuits6004]

Travelling is expensive, but there are many ways to reduce costs. I just spent a week in Zion National Park in September. I camped at the park campground for seven nights for a total of $250. That would've gotten me one night at the hotels in town, and it allowed me to spend money on what I actually went there to do; have adventures.

[@TheRacy]

My truck payment is 1k and I still travel a lot. It's more so the little things.

[@holddamayo7474]

Safe travels Kyle 😀

[@johnparsons1573]

Great video

[@VianoMusicAcademy]

One other thing. In Latin America, I never always pay between $10-20 a night for either a hostel or airbnb. Great savings right there, and I’m sure Africa can provide such opportunities, even a private room in a hostel, if you want to work on your videos from there.

[@bakarka]

The most off-the-beaten-path trip I ever took was into a remote part of Venezuela, where I felt very much like I was intruding, that the small group I was with was contaminating the indigenous life we were observing. I was with a group of European tourists who thought it was fun to mock the natives. It was not an experience I wanted to repeat. So I tend to prefer Rick Steves-type of travel where I don't stand out.

[@mikeroni]

Uruguay/Argentina is a great trip too since they’re only a ferry ride apart.

[@williamjensen7042]

kara and Nate!!! you got to use miles and points!!

[@mikeroni]

Rick Steves makes planning so much easier

[@50tastesofgray]

* Aloha Kyle... My wife and I are big fans of yours in so many ways. Your content, of course, but your down-to-earth style and genuineness hits home for us. Your videos have been a source of inspiration and joy, offering not just travel insights but also a sense of connection to the places you explore. We particularly love how you make geography accessible and engaging for everyone. Given our admiration for your work, I would be thrilled to have you as a guest on my podcast, 50 Tastes of Gray. We believe that your experiences and perspectives would provide our audience with fascinating insights into the world of travel and geography. My podcast explores diverse culinary delights and the stories behind them, and we think your unique take on geography would be a perfect fit. We hope you'll consider joining us for a lively and enjoyable conversation. Thank you for your incredible content and for making the world feel a little smaller and more connected. * Warm Wishes from Matthew Gray of "50 Tastes of Gray"

[@Nyx773]

Regarding prioritizing expenses: My 2006 car is paid for. Buying a new car would cost me over $5000/year in payments and higher insurance premiums. Until my annual repair bill gets to be near that amount, I'm keeping my car.

[@jwebb3337]

Great video!

[@HarrDog]

Very interesting video!

[@mikeroni]

You need to see Machu Picchu in Peru. Put that first on your Latin America list, life changing

[@noahsmith1726]

The car thing is spot on, though car choice in important for domestic travel

[@sounddude177]

Oh man, driving Chile top to bottom is my dream. If you need a driver to switch off with...

[@history_leisure]

I have a lot more of an Iberian Spanish lean because its where I studied and follow quite a few Spaniards, mostly Madrid or Barcelona-Tarragona (plus family friends in Cartagena and Mallorca)

[@Sir_Austin_T_Gee]

I get this. I STILL drive a 1981 Chevy that I got for basically nothing because my would be payment on a new truck can take me and my wife to Santa Fe or Chicago. My wife has a small car because her would be payment on a new one could take us to Saint Louis or Las Vegas. Combined we could go to London or Tokyo maybe. We can afford a suburban home. We instead bought a 1 acre lot in a small town outside of the mid-sized city we were living in and bought a mobile home. Grand total of $150k. We will have that paid off in 20 years or less. Beats a $300k house (they’re getting closer to $400k here now) with next to no yard that we’d be paying on for 30 years. We bought iPhones on a promo back in 2020 and we will use them till they break and either Verizon will have another promo or it’s Walmart phone time. We don’t pay for internet because we already pay for phone data. No streaming services. No cable or satellite TV. We have a DVD/Blu-ray player, an old VCR, and an antenna for TV. We don’t travel at all in the winter months (Dec to Feb) and we don’t travel during US holiday seasons or during holiday seasons of wherever we’re going. For example, we don’t go to Europe in the mid summer because that’s when the bulk of Europeans do their traveling with their 4 week vacations and what not. Knowing this information saves us a ton of money on accommodation and other expenses. Hotels are cheaper when no one goes. For example, my wife and I have one place we go back to - the Buffalo Thunder Casino in Santa Fe. For two nights it’s about $300 in January and nearly $700 in June. I’d rather take the $400 we saved on the room and blow it in the casino and bar.

[@jazzcatjohn]

My only philosophy is to enjoy myself. While in the DR a fellow traveler asked me which countries I've been to. When I listed off 15 or so countries, she said I need to pick up the pace and go to more countries like it's some kind of numerical competition. lol

[@gondolagripes1674]

Hey Geography King, im from West Virginia, and i dont make a ehole lot of money. But would you be interested in doing a video about how to travel on a budget within the US? It would be really applicable to me and i think a lot of other subscribers. ☺️