Ben Krueger comes to us from his office in the jungles of Costa Rica.
Ben is the founder and operator of Authority Engine, an avid entrepreneur, marketer, and adventurer. He started his company from his laptop as a hub for podcasting information services that redefine best practices. I met Ben at New Media Expo. We instantly connected on our mutual ecstatic love of travel, it’s importance in our lives, and the power of podcasting.
Studying for a career never sat well with Ben, and the travel itch led him to concentrate on learning the skills needed to be able to travel more on his own terms. He absorbed everything about online marketing and honed these skills knowing it’d be his golden ticket. Eventually he earned the opportunity to go to the Philippines for a 6-month position that involved driving leads for a vacation resort in exchange for food and shelter at the resort. Ben pounced on the opportunity.
Within a week, he met a collective of location independent entrepreneurs who run their businesses from their laptops and go wherever they want. Ben knew immediately he wanted in. And he continues to do what it takes to maintain control of his travel experiences.
By the way, just wait for the end. Ben’s weird food selection takes the cake in my book.
Words from an Explorer
“Someday’s not a day of the week. If you wait for it, it’ll never happen.”
Tweet this quote or say thanks to Ben for sharing his story.
What we discuss:
How marketing skills helped Ben get his start traveling by earning him a gig with Tropical MBA at a resort just south of Manila, in the Philippines.
Why the people you care about might discourage you to travel, and why you shouldn’t listen, and how to overcome it
Ben’s favorite destination: Chiang Mai
Some of Ben’s can’t miss spots in Chiang Mai
Is Thailand a good place for beginner travelers?
Ben’s Best Travel Advice
The First Step: Research the ideas you have. It’ll either inspire you to the point of uncontrollable excitement, or you’ll psych yourself out.
Money Saving Tip: The longer you stay anywhere, you cheaper things will get. if you’re using Airbnb for longer stays, ask the owner for a better deal!
Finding the Cheapest Airfare: Ben uses FlightFox to save time, otherwise sticks to sites like Kayak
Packing Tip: Focus less on everything you normally need, and instead pay attention what you specifically need.
Favorite Tool or Resource: TripIt app
Favorite Travel Book: Sherlock Holmes! Each one of the cases leaves a lot of room for you, as the reader, to fill in the blanks. This inspires how Ben loves to explore the mystery and adventure of the places he visits.
Favorite Travel Gear: GoPro Hero3
Weirdest Food: Beating Snake Heart, served in a shot glass of sake and snake blood.
Mentioned on this Show:
Ben on Twitter
AuthorityEngine.com
Airbnb.com
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The post 16: How Ben Krueger Made Travel a Part of his Life appeared first on The Daily Travel Podcast.