Exploring the World with Meena Thiru
Introduction
Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes travel journalist and world explorer Meena Thiru. With visits to over 50 countries and all seven continents, Meena has written thousands of articles and contributed to top publications like Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, and Fodor's. She is also the founder of www.travelwithmeena.com and a Lonely Planet guidebook author.
Early Inspiration for Travel
Meena's passion for travel began in childhood, accompanying her immigrant parents on trips to India and other destinations. This early exposure inspired her to make travel a way of life rather than just an occasional vacation.
Most Surprising Destination
Iceland left the biggest impression on Meena due to its natural beauty and the warmth of its people. She was welcomed with open arms, quickly making friends and feeling at home. The friendliness and hospitality of Icelanders continue to draw her back.
Most Underrated Destination
Halifax, Nova Scotia, impressed Meena with its charm and vibrant cultural diversity. She was fascinated by the strong Indian community and was deeply moved by the Canadian Immigration Museum at Pier 21, which presented a nuanced perspective on immigration history.
Biggest Travel Challenge
Antarctica posed the greatest challenge due to its remote location and the rough seas of the Drake Passage. Despite the difficulty, its untouched beauty and the unique experience of complete disconnection from technology made it one of the most impactful trips of her life.
Traveling as a Solo Woman
Meena shared insights into solo female travel, particularly in Dubai, where she felt completely safe. She highlighted the importance of preparation, researching cultural expectations, and maintaining communication with trusted friends.
Experiencing Local Life
To truly immerse herself in a destination, Meena prioritizes walking through cities, exploring non-tourist areas, and using public transit. She believes this approach leads to the most authentic experiences, such as discovering hidden cafes and unique neighborhoods in Brussels and Paris.
Debunking Travel Myths
One major myth Meena debunks is that travel must be expensive. She shares how she traveled extensively using frequent flyer miles, work trips, and staying with friends to make travel more accessible.
Writing for Lonely Planet and Top Travel Publications
Meena explains that the key to a great travel guide is storytelling combined with actionable information. She ensures readers can replicate her experiences and truly engage with a place.
Most Memorable Destinations
Meena shares her experiences in Egypt, reflecting on the thrill of walking through ancient history. She also describes the surprise of visiting the Philippines, where the Christmas season transforms Manila into a festive wonderland.
Bucket List Destinations
If Meena had to choose three countries to live in forever, they would be Finland (for its social policies and summer daylight), Singapore (for its safety and healthcare), and the U.S. (because it's home and still has so much to explore).
Final Thoughts on a Fantastic Life
Meena believes in living fully, building meaningful relationships, and making an impact through her work. Her advice is to embrace every opportunity and remain curious about the world.
Connect with Meena
Visit www.travelwithmeena.com for more travel insights and articles.
Tune in Next Time!
BIO:
Meena Thiruvengadam is a journalist who has visited more than 50 countries and all seven continents, writing thousands of articles along the way. She is the founder of travelwithmeena.com, a guidebook author for Lonely Planet, and a contributor to publications including Travel+Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, and Fodor's.
Social Media:
instagram @meenathiru tiktok @travelwithmeena X @meena_thiru
LIVE with The Famous Dr. AL
Discover the golden pearls of wisdom within you! Dr. Allen Lycka has been acknowledged as one of the leading cosmetic dermatologists in the world. A pioneer in cosmetic surgery, he helped develop several new technologies and has spoken at podiums worldwide. In 2003, Dr. Lycka was diagnosed with ALS and given six months to live. After courageously fighting the diagnosis, he is here today as a result of his courage, determination, and tenacity. Dr. Lycka used his experience to co-author "The Secrets To Living A Fantastic Life" with a foreword by #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author Jack Canfield, author of Chicken Soup For The Soul.
Brushwood Media Network is thrilled to congratulate Dr. Allen Lycka on reaching a remarkable milestone—his 500th episode of the popular series "How To Live a Fantastic Life." Dr. Lycka's inspiring show has become a staple for listeners seeking advice on living their best lives, and this milestone is a testament to his dedication and the impact of his work.
“LIVE with The Famous Dr. AL” will offer a dynamic blend of features, ensuring that each episode provides something unique and exciting. Listeners can look forward to intriguing conversations with authors, captivating lifestyle stories, travel and food adventures, exclusive celebrity insights, and the latest in beauty secrets.
Dr. Lycka has an incredible ability to connect with his audience and provide valuable insights that inspire and uplift. Don't miss out on the fun and inspiration. Dr. Lycka also has the #1 syndicated radio shows How to Live A Fantastic Life, Doc Fix That, and Driving Biz, on the Brushwood Media Network, with millions of listeners each month.
Dr. Allen Steven Lycka was acknowledged as one of the leading cosmetic dermatologists in the world for three decades. A pioneer in cosmetic surgery, he helped to develop laser-assisted tumescent liposuction – an advanced body sculpture technique, and Moh’s Micrographic Surgery, an advanced means of removing skin cancer with 99% success. He has lived and practiced in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada since 1989. He’s written 17 books, 30+ academic papers and hosted the number one internet radio show in the world – Inside Cosmetic Surgery Today. He is a co-founder of Doctors for the “Practice of Safe and Ethical Aesthetic Medicine” and founder of The Canadian Skin Cancer Association. He won the prestigious Consumers Choice Award For Cosmetic Surgery for 16 consecutive years.
In 2003, Dr. Lycka’s life changed drastically when he suddenly developed a right foot drop while on vacation with his family at Disneyland. He promised his wife he would explore it, and after seeing many doctors was misdiagnosed with having ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Still, he maintained his status as a leading cosmetic doctor for 30 years. He later discovered he has Chronic Lyme disease.
Because of what he learned through his experience, he left his practice and co-authored the bestselling book, “The Secrets To Living A Fantastic Life” with Harriet Tinka, a former fashion model and Woman of Distinction.
He has also authored two more books: one with Corie Poirier entitled, “bLU Talks Presents: Business, Life and the Universe” and one with Jack Canfield entitled, “The Pillars of Success.” Both books also became bestsellers during the Covid crisis in 2020. Currently acknowledged as a leading expert in Living A Fantastic Life and Turning Points, he is a transformational speaker, thought leader, coach, and mentor.
Dr. Lycka is happily married to Dr. Lucie Bernier-Lycka for 38 years and they have four lovely daughters and seven beautiful grandchildren. He counts his family as his most important accomplishment.