About this episode
Podcast: Zero To Travel Podcast (LS 58 · TOP 0.5% what is this?)Episode: Curiosity As Your Travel Guide + Exploring Overlooked Destinations with John McKenziePub date: 2026-01-27Get Podcast Transcript ?powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationWhat happens when you let curiosity guide your travel experiences?
John McKenzie is a long-time traveler and curious explorer who shares stories and insights from off-the-beaten-track destinations around the world. Through his content and curated CuriosiTrips, he aims to expand others’ sense of what’s possible by encouraging a more curious, open approach to travel. He’s also a new contributor to National Geographic, writing the sections on Djibouti, Eritrea, and Somalia for The Traveler’s Atlas of the World.
In this episode, John and I sit down in person to explore the concept of curiosity as a travel compass, why some destinations gain reputations that don’t match reality, and how community and mindset shape meaningful journeys.
Travel is often framed around checklists and highlights, but John reframes it as a curiosity?driven practice that enriches both travel and everyday life. You’ll hear how to exercise your curiosity muscle, embrace spontaneity, and responsibly explore destinations often overlooked or misunderstood. From challenging trips like Somalia, Ethiopia, and Syria to cultural discoveries and approachable recommendations like Malawi and Cuba, this conversation offers both a practical perspective and philosophical encouragement for travelers of all experience levels.
What is one place you’ve always been curious about but haven’t yet visited, and what’s holding you back? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.
Tune In To Learn:
How boredom and routine kick-started John’s curiosity and exploration
What approaching travel with openness rather than rigidity can uncover
Why connecting with others who’ve done what you want to do helps normalize the goal
How travel to “dange
