LIVE with The Famous Dr AL with Ralph Velasco

Introduction Host: Dr. Allen LyckaGuest: Ralph Velasco, international tour organizer, professional travel photographer, author, and public speakerRalph has led 120 international trips with over 1000 clients to destinations like India, Vietnam, Cambodia, Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, Europe, and AntarcticaAuthor of the new series "The Mindful and Intentional Traveler," available on Amazon Ralph's Journey into Traveling Started traveling in high school with a summer in Madrid, SpainVolunteered in Peru and Venezuela, studied Spanish in Mexico CityHooked on travel and photography since the late 70s and early 80s, before the internet and cell phones Impact of the Pandemic Ralph's travel business was significantly affectedUtilized the time to create a YouTube channel, write books, and complete work that couldn't be done while travelingNormally spends 8-9 months on the road, focusing on client experience during trips Organizing International Trips Handles logistics from airport pick-ups to local excursionsEmphasizes both scheduled activities and free time for explorationAdvocates for slow travel to deeply experience destinations Experiencing Destinations Authentically Enjoys staying in unique accommodations like castles, boutique hotels, and Airbnb propertiesEncourages travelers to engage in local activities like getting haircuts or shopping to feel like a local Memorable Destinations Recently visited Antarctica, describing it as peaceful, pristine, and teeming with wildlifeRecounts the unparalleled natural beauty and absence of man-made structures The Galapagos Islands Dr. Lycka shares his experience of the Galapagos, highlighting its unique wildlife and evolutionary significanceDiscusses the impact of tourism and the importance of mindful and intentional travel Mindfulness and Intentionality in Travel Ralph created "The Mindful and Intentional Traveler" series to emphasize being present and appreciating experiencesReflects on the importance of being mindful during travels, avoiding distractions from technology Photography and Travel Discusses balancing photography with experiencing the momentAdvises travelers to sometimes put the camera down and fully immerse in the surroundings Culinary Experiences Emphasizes the significance of food in understanding and enjoying different culturesRecommends taking food tours to experience local cuisine and meet new people Final Thoughts Encourages people to prioritize travel and experiences over material possessionsStresses the unpredictability of life and the importance of not postponing travel plans How to Connect with Ralph Velasco Website: Continental DrifterYouTube Channel: Continental DrifterBooks available on Amazon: Search for "Continental Drift" or Ralph Velasco Conclusion Dr. Allen Lycka's website: Dr. Allen LyckaEncourages listeners to explore and live a fantastic life through travel and experiences Links to Ralph’s Books https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQPLBM6Thttps://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0D3MKB1TP Ralph Velasco BIO & Social Media Links BIO: Since 2008 Ralph Velasco has been an international tour organizer, professional travel photographer, author, and public speaker. During this period, he's led more than 120 international trips with more than 1,000 clients to such places as India, Vietnam, Cambodia, Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, throughout the European continent, and even Antarctica.  In addition to his other books, Ralph is the author of a new series of books called The Mindful & Intentional Traveler which include 60 AFFIRMATIONS for Travel as well as a GRATITUDES Edition. These can be found on Amazon. Social Media: YouTube Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter