26- Cycling to the Climate Conference: A Ride for Change

Would you cycle 6,500 km to highlight climate change? For Guillaume Otrage, the answer was yes. Instead of hopping on a plane to attend the COP29 Climate Conference, he went on a six-month bicycle journey from Paris to Baku. His aim was to deliver 10 proposals to leverage cycling for climate protection. <br /><br />In this episode of Travel Devil, your host Clara Francken sits down with Guillaume to talk about:</p><ul><li>Why he chose to cycle instead of fly to a major climate event.</li><li>What it's like to attend COP as a participant.</li><li>The power of cycling in reducing transport emissions.</li><li>Adventures on the road, like cycling in areas with bears, wild dogs, and other unexpected challenges.</li><li>How his journey is inspiring others to rethink sustainable travel.</li></ul>This episode is packed with adventure, activism, and insights into what it takes to turn a simple bike ride into a movement. </p><br />🔗 Follow Guillaume’s journey: cop29bikeride.org</p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1955119/open_sms" target="_blank">Write us your thoughts on the show</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1955119/support" rel="payment">Support the show</a></p>Suggestions for future guests? Dm me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clarafrancken">@clarafrancken</a><br />Want to watch my videos? Go to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/clarafrancken">YouTube.com/clarafrancken</a></p>

01:08:33

25- Why Cleanups Aren’t Enough to Save Our Oceans

<b>They picked up 650,000 cigarette butts and piled them in the city center. Why?</b> To take a striking stand against trash & pollution.</p>In this episode, I chat with Andreas Noe, aka <em>The Trash Traveler</em>, who’s changing beach cleanups into powerful awareness campaigns. From creating trash art to organizing massive cleanups, Andreas is on a mission to show that small actions can lead to big change.</p>We discuss:</p><ul><li>Why beach cleanups aren’t enough to solve plastic pollution.</li><li>How trash art and visuals inspire people to act.</li><li>The surprising challenges travelers face in reducing waste .</li><li>Why systemic change and collective action are key against microplastics.</li></ul>If you’ve ever wondered how to make an impact while traveling sustainably, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insights.<br /><br />Click here to follow his journey: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thetrashtraveler/">https://www.instagram.com/thetrashtraveler/</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1955119/open_sms" target="_blank">Write us your thoughts on the show</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1955119/support" rel="payment">Support the show</a></p>Suggestions for future guests? Dm me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clarafrancken">@clarafrancken</a><br />Want to watch my videos? Go to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/clarafrancken">YouTube.com/clarafrancken</a></p>

00:52:38

What High School in Turkey is Really Like as an Exchange Student - Christmas Edition

Attending Turkish high school as foreigners? This is our personal experience during the winter time in Turkey. This episode is my Christmas gift to all the international students abroad. Host Clara Francken and her best friend Debbie talk about attending high school in Turkey as an exchange student. We reflect on our year living and studying in Izmir and Mersin, Turkey. We talk about everything from skipping class (yes, it happened!) to celebrating Christmas and New Year in a new culture. <br /><br />If you’ve ever thought about cultural exchange or living abroad, this episode shares the highs, the lows, and the unforgettable stories that come with it.</p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1955119/open_sms" target="_blank">Write us your thoughts on the show</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1955119/support" rel="payment">Support the show</a></p>Suggestions for future guests? Dm me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clarafrancken">@clarafrancken</a><br />Want to watch my videos? Go to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/clarafrancken">YouTube.com/clarafrancken</a></p>

00:56:19

23- Walking 1,000 km: Eco-Mobility & Climate Action in Botswana

How far would you go to raise awareness about climate change? Reuben Ntuluki walked 1000 km through Botswana to prove that sustainable travel is possible and necessary. In this episode of Travel Devil, your host Clara Francken uncovers the challenges, triumphs, and lessons from Reuben’s inspiring journey.</p>Topics covered:</p><ul><li>Reuben's untold story of walking 1000 km</li><li>The truth behind funding for climate projects in Botswana</li><li>The link between eco-mobility and reducing carbon footprints</li><li>Traditional and modern sustainable travel practices in Botswana</li><li>How Reuben overcame the odds to secure international recognition for his NGO</li></ul>This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainability, travel, and the power of grassroots advocacy.</p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1955119/open_sms" target="_blank">Write us your thoughts on the show</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1955119/support" rel="payment">Support the show</a></p>Suggestions for future guests? Dm me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clarafrancken">@clarafrancken</a><br />Want to watch my videos? Go to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/clarafrancken">YouTube.com/clarafrancken</a></p>

00:39:47

22- Portugal to Germany by Train: The Truth About Sustainable Travel

In this solo episode, your host Clara Francken shares her firsthand experience traveling from Portugal to Germany by train - an epic 4-day journey filled with highs, lows, and important lessons. From breathtaking views in southern France to logistical nightmares at border crossings, Clara unpacks the realities of choosing sustainable travel over cheap flights. This episode is sharing real stories about how to embrace the joys - and frustrations! - of eco-friendly travel.</p>Discover answers to these questions:</p><ul><li>Where can travelers find affordable train options across Europe?</li><li>Why should you avoid wasting time booking seat reservations for Interrail on European trains?</li><li>What are the unexpected challenges of cross-border train travel?</li><li>Can sustainable travel compete with budget airlines like Ryanair?</li><li>What are some Black Friday train deals to look out for?</li></ul>If you’ve ever considered making your travels more sustainable, this episode will inspire and prepare you for the journey ahead.</p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1955119/open_sms" target="_blank">Write us your thoughts on the show</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1955119/support" rel="payment">Support the show</a></p>Suggestions for future guests? Dm me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clarafrancken">@clarafrancken</a><br />Want to watch my videos? Go to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/clarafrancken">YouTube.com/clarafrancken</a></p>

00:33:58

21- Crossing borders by train, EU politics & upcoming changes w/ Jon Worth

From funny and awkward border-crossing moments to the occasional frustrating delays, this episode is packed with relatable and entertaining train tales. Host Clara Francken welcomes Jon Worth, an independent EU policy commentator and expert on sustainable transport, for an engaging discussion on European train travel.</p>It's not just about stories, this episode dives into the bigger picture of sustainable travel across Europe. Discover how EU policies are shaping the future of rail travel, how we can solve the ticketing issue, and how Europe wide data sharing can solve the hassle of finding the best train connections. Whether you're navigating international rail systems for the first time or you're a pro at deciphering timetables, this episode is full of useful tips, policy insights, and a sprinkle of humor to inspire your next journey by train.</p>Don't miss this episode if you're curious about how railways are driving Europe's push for sustainability and a greener future!</p>Contact Jon Worth:<br /><a href="http://jonworth.eu/contact/">http://jonworth.eu/contact/</a><br /><a href="https://bsky.app/profile/jonworth.eu">https://bsky.app/profile/jonworth.eu</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1955119/open_sms" target="_blank">Write us your thoughts on the show</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1955119/support" rel="payment">Support the show</a></p>Suggestions for future guests? Dm me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clarafrancken">@clarafrancken</a><br />Want to watch my videos? Go to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/clarafrancken">YouTube.com/clarafrancken</a></p>

01:10:07

20- Can we Feed Monkeys and Why Not? This is Primate Tourism w/ Connie Needham

Can we take selfies with monkeys? Can I feed apes? Why are macaques aggressive towards humans? Can I eat primates? In this episode of Travel Devil, we're exposing the wildlife exploitation in southeast Asia's tourism culture - with Connie Needham. <br /><br />While Vietnam and Southeast Asia is a backpacker’s paradise, it’s also home to more and more wildlife exploitation marketed as “once-in-a-lifetime experiences.” Today we focus on primates: monkeys and apes. Researcher Connie shares her insights on street-level exploitation of monkeys on chains for tourist photos and how travelers can make more ethical choices. Join us as we discuss the impact of these activities and how to travel with compassion.<br /><br />How to contact Connie:<br /><a href="https://www.instagram.com/connie.needham/reels/">https://www.instagram.com/connie.needham</a><br /><a href="https://www.projectwild.uk/">https://www.projectwild.uk</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1955119/open_sms" target="_blank">Write us your thoughts on the show</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1955119/support" rel="payment">Support the show</a></p>Suggestions for future guests? Dm me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clarafrancken">@clarafrancken</a><br />Want to watch my videos? Go to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/clarafrancken">YouTube.com/clarafrancken</a></p>

01:02:46

19- 50,000km by Train! Spies, Border Control & more w/ Victor Figèra, La Route Du Soja

In this episode of Travel Devil, I sit down with Victor Figèra<b> </b>from <em>La Route du Soja</em> to discuss his incredible long-distance train journey from Paris to Taiwan with his partner Léa. Victor shares how his childhood shaped his passion for sustainable travel and how they navigated a route that emits five times less CO2 than flying. We dive into their most memorable experiences—crossing breathtaking landscapes in China and Kyrgyzstan, a heartwarming arrival in Hong Kong, and culinary adventures in Taiwan. Victor also opens up about the challenges they faced, including illness in China and navigating central Asia as vegetarians. Tune in to hear the highs and lows of their epic two-month journey and how they managed to finance their trip through sponsorships.<br /><br />How to contact Victor:<br /><a href="https://www.instagram.com/la_route_du_soja/">https://www.instagram.com/la_route_du_soja/</a><br />FREE carbon footprint calculator: <br /><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1uMGQMJHwxp5gdQp4jyE__QP5BQZLcZWifyBgMB_TK5U/edit?usp=drivesdk">https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1uMGQMJHwxp5gdQp4jyE__QP5BQZLcZWifyBgMB_TK5U/edit?usp=drivesdk</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1955119/open_sms" target="_blank">Write us your thoughts on the show</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1955119/support" rel="payment">Support the show</a></p>Suggestions for future guests? Dm me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clarafrancken">@clarafrancken</a><br />Want to watch my videos? Go to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/clarafrancken">YouTube.com/clarafrancken</a></p>

01:07:33

18- From Refugee Shipwreck to Ocean Cleanup w/ Daniel Angelis

Today's episode is all about beach cleanups, sharing the story of the coastal and marine management expert and founder Daniel Angelis, who got started during the refugee crisis. Daniel shares his journey of how the refugee boats impacted his home island Lesbos in Greece, and how they dealt with the trash. <br /><br />He's opening up about leading ocean cleanups and tackling plastic pollution along some of the world’s most beautiful yet fragile coastlines. In Lesbos, environmental conservation met humanitarian aid as more than one refugee boat arrived on the shores. His efforts transformed coastal cleanups into missions of social responsibility, providing listeners with a unique look at how travel, environmental action, and human compassion intersect.</p><b>In this episode, you’ll hear about:</b></p><ul><li><b>Coastal trash due to the refugee crisis on Lesbos</b>: What happened to the stranded refugee boats, how to recycle all the ocean waste after this humanitarian crisis</li><li><b>Microplastic and beach cleanup efforts</b>: The growing issue of plastic pollution on coastlines and how it affects marine life.</li><li><b>Coastal cleanup do's and don'ts</b>: What to keep in mind before going on a beach cleanup, what to avoid</li><li><b>Ocean cleanup</b>: How to clean the ocean with a team of free divers and ships, how to manage waste found in the ocean</li><li><b>"One Beach at a Time" NGO</b>: Daniel’s mission and how his organization combines ocean conservation with social responsibility.</li></ul>Whether you’re passionate about ocean cleanup, curious about the intersection of travel and sustainability, or interested in the refugee crisis, this episode offers powerful stories and insights that will inspire you to make a difference.<br /><br />Connect with Angelis;<br /><a href="https://www.onebeachatatime.org/">onebeachatatime.org<br /></a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/angelis.daniel/">instagram.com/angelis.daniel<br /></a><br />Where is your trash traveling (plastic tracker)?<br /><a href="https://theoceancleanup.com/plastic-tracker/">theoceancleanup.com/plastic-tracker<br /></a><br /></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1955119/open_sms" target="_blank">Write us your thoughts on the show</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1955119/support" rel="payment">Support the show</a></p>Suggestions for future guests? Dm me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clarafrancken">@clarafrancken</a><br />Want to watch my videos? Go to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/clarafrancken">YouTube.com/clarafrancken</a></p>

00:59:32

17- Solutions for over tourism in Portugal w/ Marta Domingues

How can we visit Portugal in a more sustainable way? Today's guest is the portages Marta Domingues, a founder of eco-projects and a biodiversity activist.</p>Marta explains the problems she faces on a daily basis living in Portugal. Over tourism caused her not to visit Lisbon anymore, taking the bus can take a long time, visiting beautiful beaches with her kids became a 3-hour-queue experience by car... But all of those negatives make room for positive solutions.</p>How can we do eco travel in Portugal? Take the bicycle, visit locals, support communities, find small businesses to do your activities.. Marta shares very valuable information on how to find these activities and inspires you thanks to a great amount of examples.</p>You'll get inspired, listen to stories and get lots of useful tips!</p><b>TOPICS DISCUSSED:</b></p><ul><li>Background of Marta Domingues</li><li>Public transport in Portugal</li><li>Portuguese intercity busses vs trains</li><li>Impact of over tourism on housing prices in Portugal</li><li>How to find sustainable travel alternatives</li><li>How to find great activities via Facebook, TripAdvisor and Google Maps</li><li>What's the impact of expats on Portugal</li><li>...</li></ul>Connect with Marta?<br />Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/florestadaslebres/">@florestadaslebres</a></p><br />Complaints / Suggestions about Portugal:<br /><a href="https://www.visitportugal.com/en/contact">visitportugal.com/en/contact<br /></a><a href="https://www.livroamarelo.gov.pt/en/">livroamarelo.gov.pt/en/</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1955119/open_sms" target="_blank">Write us your thoughts on the show</a></p><a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1955119/support" rel="payment">Support the show</a></p>Suggestions for future guests? Dm me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clarafrancken">@clarafrancken</a><br />Want to watch my videos? Go to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/clarafrancken">YouTube.com/clarafrancken</a></p>

00:49:02