Categories
North America Public Relations

ROBERT ROSE TO BE FEATURED AT WARM UP UKRAINE

 – Travel Producer & Host to Speak at Fall 2023 Fundraiser for Ukraine in San Francisco –

NEW YORK, NY: October 5th, 2023 – AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV), the producers of the internationally syndicated television series Raw Travel®, announced that Robert G. Rose, the Executive Producer and Host of the series will be a featured presenter at Warm Up Ukraine: Fall, a multimedia fundraising event to showcase Ukrainian culture through music, art, talks, and activities.

The event will occur on Saturday, October 14th, from 11 AM until 8 PM at the Midway in San Francisco. From 11 AM until 3 PM, the event willfeature talks on “Transformations for Good” from Ukrainian and American veterans, doctors, documentarians, volunteers, tech entrepreneurs, and more.   

During his talk, Rose will premiere the official trailer of “My Summer in Ukraine” from the forthcoming travel documentary series to debut via Raw Travel in 2024 and photos and inspiring anecdotes from his travel to Ukraine in the summer of 2023 during an intense time of war.

“I’m honored to be able to share my life-changing experience traveling through Ukraine this summer to help raise awareness and funds for such a great cause,” said Rose. “I went to Ukraine to give something of myself, but I received so much more in return. Good people of good conscience cannot stand idly by while others suffer needlessly. I hope we can inspire more people to help a country and people who need our support and assistance, now as much, or more than ever,” Rose Continued.

Warm Up Ukraine’s mission is to raise funds for urgent causes and create a positive influence in Ukraine and among the community in the Bay Area. The funds raised from ticket sales and donations will help provide critical supplies to battlefield medics in Ukraine and bring innovative professional education to Ukrainian veterans.


In addition to TED-style talks and presentations, attendees can enjoy live performances by renowned Ukrainian and international musicians and DJs, discover and acquire authentic Ukrainian artworks, taste delicious Ukrainian-inspired food and drinks, and attend a series of classes for adults and children.

Other presenters include Evgeniy Maloletka, Pulitzer prize-winning Ukrainian journalist and photographer, who will discuss documenting war crimes, and Yuliia Matvieieva, a therapist, discussing communicating with war-scarred veterans. Also presenting are T.J. Collins and Lesya Kalynska from the documentary film “A Rising Fury,” speakers and companies working with people with physical impairments and PTSD, representatives from the End Violence Partnership, and many more.

Among the artists whose prints will be for sale include Iryna Babanina, Maryna Maliarenko, Slava Babanin, Tetiana Kopytova, and Vidro (Andrii Bunyak) and the music program will feature the Fima Chupakhin Trio and more.

Warm Up Ukraine: Fall is organized by and will benefit Leleka Foundation and New Horizons Hub, 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. Ticket sales and donations are tax-deductible. For tickets and more information, please visit www.warmupukraine.org.

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ABOUT RAW TRAVEL TV

Raw Travel is an adventure travel & lifestyle series showcasing socially and environmentally aware, independent travel. The series weaves eco-tourism and voluntourism (giving back) themes uniquely with underground music and authentic culture. Since 2013, the show has raised funds and highlighted dozens of non-profit organizations helping the unhoused, orphaned children, people with disabilities, displaced refugees, etc., as well as encouraging earth stewardship, sustainable living, and travel with a purpose.

The show is broadcast in 185 U.S. cities on major broadcast affiliates and several international territories (Asia, Africa, Europe…) each weekend. It can also be found on several major airlines.

AIM Tell-A-Vision Group produces the show and oversees its domestic and international distribution. Visit RawTravel.tv for more information. 

ABOUT AIM TELL-A-VISION GROUP

AIM Tell-A-Vision (AIM TV) Group is an independent production, content, and distribution company founded by media veteran and entrepreneur Robert G. Rose. Since 2000, AIM TV has produced and distributed positive, compelling content that reflects a mission of presenting “Media That Matters.” Visit AIMTVGroup.com for more information.

ABOUT LELEKA FOUNDATION & NEW HORIZONS HUB

Leleka Foundation is a non-profit that supports Ukrainian military medics with equipment and supplies. Since 2014, Leleka has raised over $8 million and provided thousands of first aid kits, backpacks, medical evacuation vehicles, and hospital supplies. With Leleka Ukraine, we work with front-line medics and are recognized as one of the most trusted and effective organizations in this area. Funds from Warm Up Ukraine: Fall will be used for equipment and supplies for field medics. Visit https://www.leleka.care/ for more information.

New Horizons Hub is a non-profit organization that supports veterans in rebuilding their lives by providing them with the education and essential skills needed to pursue a rewarding career in the tech industry. Visit https://www.horizonshub.org/ for more information.

Categories
Ukraine

RARE ACCESS TO UKRAINE DRONE SCHOOL

Just when I think things can’t get any more surreal in Ukraine, the next day one-ups the previous. We were allowed rare access to a drone-flying school where we hung out with soldiers of various platoons for a full day, some fresh from the front and returning there the next day. This realization put me in a solemn mood.

It was final exam day, and the students had all passed with flying colors and received diplomas at the end of the day.

We took part in some of the drone-flying games out in the field. It occurred to me I was a legitimate Russian military target now. Still, if past history predicted future actions, the Russians were more likely to bomb a restaurant, hospital, daycare center, or playground than a military target.

It was a beautiful spring-like day. I could hear roosters crowing, mixing in with gunfire from a practice range a few miles away. Whenever the joy of the day’s beauty hit me, I was reminded of destruction, misery, and war. I was up and down all day.

One field exercise included hitting a target, kamikaze style. There were no bombs on these, as that would eat up too many drones during practice. But the drones had been souped up, built from scratch, and could scream through the air at incredible speeds. In the first round, I was taken to the practice field in a brand-new fancy Audi car, unsuitable for the barely-there dirt path and bumpy and muddy terrain. On the second, it was a junker that the soldiers and I could barely fit into, and the trunk kept popping open every time we hit a bump. It was apparent these were civilian cars being used for military purposes. These guys need more trucks.

Whether in a car or on foot, we stuck to the same route each time. The instructor informed me that we wanted to be careful not to veer off the path in case there were any unexploded ordinances, as we were on land that Russians once occupied.

The instructor knows what he speaks. He is from the Donbas region, which Russia invaded with the assistance of separatists in 2014. He recounted that he was captured by the Russians when he was just 17 years old and a minor, so they let him go… in the middle of a minefield.

At the time, apparently, the Russian military at least pretended to care about war crimes and didn’t want to kill a minor, so they hoped a minefield would do the job for them, giving them deniable plausibility. He disappointed them and somehow made it across the field in one piece. Now they’ve created a mighty enemy. I was reminded that this “special military operation” of Putin’s has been happening for almost ten years. But it’s even older, as Russia has attempted to destroy the Ukrainian people, culture, and language for centuries.

Later that day, the instructor who relayed this information to me found out one of his peers, a fellow instructor at another school and a good friend, had his right hand blown off by an unexploded ordinance and needed blood. He sent me a photo of the poor kid (very young looking) in a hospital bed, smiling… it was the anesthesia talking. Maimed Ukrainians will be just part of the Russian legacy and a long-time reminder of the shame that we should never allow them and their supporters to forget.

Next, we were shown a demonstration of drone flying skills on the homemade indoor course. It demonstrated the precision with which these machines are flown and the skill of Ukrainian drone pilots.

Drones are an inexpensive and efficient way to save lives. Soldiers’ lives are saved by allowing the pilot to be further away from the action. But there are challenges, not the least that the primary maker of drones, DJI, a Chinese company, has stopped manufacturing and importation to Ukraine and severely restricted neighboring countries’ importations.

Officially, the same policy from DJI applies to Russia. However, unofficially, according to Ukrainians, DJI supports Russia. I believe this is true. Anastasia purchased a brand new DJI Steadicam, and she could not download the software and app to use it for more than the 24-hour trial period simply because she is Ukrainian. Thankfully, I was with her and could download it on my phone in order to use her new gear.

The Chinese government doesn’t seem to care about morality, the systematic and state-sponsored murder of innocent children, or right or wrong, but only about money and geopolitics. While some may argue the same applies to the United States of America, and while the US history of intervention isn’t perfect by any stretch of the imagination, I don’t buy it here.

The “what about” and “both sides-isms” is just a way for weak-minded people unable to distinguish nuance and feel better about supporting what deep down they know is evil. Again, 1,000 plus Ukrainian children were killed versus zero Russian children. I could list dozens more facts like this but isn’t that all you really need to know. Arguments stop there. There is no justifying the unjustifiable.

And the Russian people are not totally innocent in these atrocities. One other journalist on location, a Ukrainian photojournalist, recounted an all too familiar story of a family torn apart by the war. His father lives in Moscow and believes Russia is correct in invading Ukraine. It’s common to write off this widespread belief that everyday Russians do not have accurate information on the war, BUT his son lives in Ukraine. He knows the facts of civilian carnage and the killing of innocent children and the elderly (presumably pensioners like the father).

He’s been told of the maiming, orphaning, and kidnapping of Ukrainian children by Russia, and he CHOOSES to believe what Putin has to say. Indeed, some in the USA believe that we should “listen to what Putin has to say” (Rock Musician turned Country Artist Loon, Aaron Lewis of the 2000s band Staind, Tucker Carlson, formerly with FNC, a variety of right-wing politicians, and their ignorant and ill-informed followers).

Anastasia’s Ukrainian soldier boyfriend has a cousin who lives in Russia and believes Russia should kill Ukrainians until Ukraine “comes to its senses.” You can’t reason with people with such beliefs; you can only defeat them.

As the students received their diplomas, I noticed the cheerful atmosphere. It dawned on me that most of these men hadn’t even known each other 11 days prior (school is only 10 days long) and now were jocular and jovial with each other and me. They shared a bond of war, sadness, and now of drone school and joy.

I, however, had to struggle with my emotions, understanding that some of these men I’d grown to admire over the past few hours might not make it back in one piece.

But eventually, at the ad hoc barbeque celebration that evening, I let go of my somber mood. For a moment, I was in high school again, back home in Tennessee, hanging with my buddies by a bonfire. Indeed, many of these men could have passed for avid hunters down south with their beards, bowie knives, and humor… I felt completely at home though only a couple (former IT or businesspeople in civilian life) spoke any English.

As the evening wore on, it got windy, chilly, and cold. Someone loaned me a hoodie to keep me warm. They ensured my plate and my glass was filled, even though I was a visitor, not accounted for when they bought the provisions.

A couple had eyed me slightly suspiciously all day, probably because they were wary of having their image taken by a foreign journalist. That can be dangerous here, for them if captured, or their families live in occupied territory. I, of course, was very conscientious of this fact. Still, ALL warmed up to me that evening.

As they recounted stories from the battlefield, comrades and family members lost, with translations made for my sole benefit, I tried to keep it together. They were stoic and strong, So I must try. I felt a kinship with these men, along with a deep admiration. I said so in my toast, which Anastasia translated for me. But I couldn’t find the words in English, much less translate them to Ukrainian to fully express my feelings. Still can’t. War absolutely sucks, but witnessing Ukraine’s fight for freedom is THE noblest cause I have ever been a part of. I feel so blessed and humbled to have played even a small role.

PLEASE NOTE: Though I have permission to post photos, out of an abundance of caution, I’ve decided not to include faces or landmarks that might give away ANY sensitive information.

Categories
Ukraine

Return to Przmesyl, Poland

June 9th, 2023 – Day two of my trip, I was so tired that I spent 15 minutes thinking I was locked IN my apartment share because I was pushing a pull door. I was JUST about to call the apartment owner when I figured it out. Thank goodness. The language barrier is terrible enough without her thinking I’m just plain dense. So don’t expect this written account to be anything one would write home about.

Still, making my way from Krakow (Crack-of for the pronunciation police) to Przemyśl almost a year after our filming here was moving. Leaving Krakow by train was NOT easy. I got yelled at twice at the Krakow train station, once by the ticket agent and another by the security guard. They were angry I spoke English and didn’t know where I was going. I suppose. Touristy places always have a resentful local or two, and I get it; I’m the same way in NYC. Still, I don’t yell at people who ask me a question. I wonder if they realize how much their salary depends on travelers like me.

But Valentina came in to save the day. Valentina (Pictured with me) is 1/2 Polish and 1/2 Italian. She was traveling to visit her grandparents for the summer, something she’s done summer after summer for many years. She also spoke good English, helped translate for me, and ensured I got on the correct train because the information was sparse. We were in the same car coincidentally, so I paid her back by helping her with the luggage.

But boarding the train at Krakow was the biggest disorganized circus I have EVERY seen. And so unnecessary too! Everyone has an assigned seat; what’s with the stupid chaos? Is this a roller derby match or an MMA event?

I have a nice shin injury from a roller suitcase slamming me during the scrum. People filed onto our car from both ends, meeting in the middle in a too-narrow aisle that would not allow either to pass the other with luggage. We were at a standstill for a good five to ten minutes with no one willing to back down before I jumped in, in English, and began ordering people around. They listened to me?! and thanked me! I couldn’t believe it. Then they asked ME where to get off for THEIR stop, and I was like, “Whoa, that’s enough now… this is my first time taking a train from Krakow to Przmesyl. And maybe my last.

Also on the train were two very sweet Ukrainian refugee women (sisters or maybe a YOUNG grandmother and daughter) with a young baby in tow. Unlike the Polish ticket agent and Security Guard, they were exceedingly helpful in getting me on the right train. They said they were worried they had “lost me” when they saw me on board afterward.

So by the time the train was halfway to Przemyśl, I felt I knew 1/2 the car, though hardly anyone spoke English, and just an hour earlier, I knew NO ONE. That’s travel. That’s why I love it.

The World Central Kitchen Volunteers are gone at the Przemyśl train station. In fact, I didn’t see a single volunteer of ANY organization welcome the exhausted and on-edge refugees who were on the train from Krakow and, like me, heading back to Ukraine. There is a war still going on, you know? In fact, it’s worse than before in my observations thus far. People are STRESSED to the limit.

Elderly women and ladies with tired children dragging their massive suitcases up and down flights of stairs disheartened me. I saw two disturbing bouts of distress, one from an elderly lady upset about something with her, I assume, adult daughter… and another young girl, 8 or 9, I’d say, also scarily upset and causing a scene and evidently super stressed with her family about something. The psychological toll of this horror show has yet to be played out, but I saw a sneak preview today, and it was NOT good.

I missed Anastasia’s language skills several times today, not just on getting from Point A to Point B but also on more practical matters. I had to buy dental floss at the Pharmacy and test my charade skills. Deodorant was fun too. Thankfully…. all stocked up on toilet paper, but I’ve got the perfect charade move ready to go should I need to get some.

Walking to the San River, I met a colorful “anti-war” protestor on the bridge. Unfortunately, I couldn’t understand precisely how the war might be ended (since Russia is 100% in charge of that situation) as his English was minor and my Polish was nil. Not suitable for such a complex subject.

If Mr. Ant-War Protester has any good ideas on how to end this madness and ensure that this NEVER happens again (we know that won’t happen if Putin wins), I’m all ears because witnessing people mentally breaking down is not fun to watch; not to mention the physical toll I’m ABOUT to see first-hand.

Still reminiscing in Przemyśl (Shey-mish for the pronunciation police) has been fulfilling. I wish I could stay longer, but I hope to see it again on the return trip in a few weeks.

Tomorrow, I’m off to cross the border back to L’viv for a few days before continuing into Kyiv. Nervous and excited, of course. I have some plans. It will be very different this trip. More on that later.

Sorry for the stream of consciousness, but I don’t have time to write correctly. I have more push doors to try to pull open.

Categories
North America

Raw Travel Wins Two Telly Awards for Steadfast in Ukraine

RAW TRAVEL WINS TWO TELLIES FOR “STEADFAST IN UKRAINE” – For Ten Seasons I resisted nominating Raw Travel for any awards, for a variety of reasons I won’t get into. However, I felt it was finally time to allow the people who worked on the very special “Steadfast in Ukraine” to garner some well-deserved recognition. Some shows may be titled “Solo in…” but they are anything but. Television is a collaborative medium, and thankfully so, as I enjoy nothing more than working with fellow creators to hopefully create something of value.

Congratulations to Creador Pictures (Editing), BtOVEN Music (Sound Design), Chaliwa Music + Sound (Audio Mix), Anastasia Zui (Videographer) Julia Avramenko (Consulting Producer), for winning the Silver in “TV – Travel & Tourism” and the Bronze for “TV – Video Journalism.”

Also, a shout out to fellow Telly Award winner Mickela Mallozzi of “Barefeet with Mickela” who convinced me to apply, proving she’s broad-minded and big-hearted enough to know it’s all about “coopertition”, not competition. Press Release Below:

RAW TRAVEL’S “STEADFAST IN UKRAINE” WINS AWARDS
Visit to Ukraine During Wartime Wins Two Telly Awards in Two Categories

NEW YORK, NY: May 31st, 2023– AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV), producers of the nation’s most-watched travel show, Raw Travel®, announced their episode “Steadfast in Ukraine,” featuring a visit to wartime Ukraine garnered two Telly Awards. The episode won a Silver Telly in the Television, Travel and Tourism category and a Bronze Telly in the category of Television, Video Journalism.

The special episode featured Executive Producer, Writer, and Host Robert G. Rose as he and Ukrainian refugee videographer Anastasia Zui traveled from Poland to film in Western Ukraine. Anastasia, a talented cinematographer and regular member of the Raw Travel crew, is a twice-displaced refugee from the Donbas region. In the episode, she continues from Lviv to Kyiv to reunite with her mother for the first time since fleeing the country with her young brother. At the same time, her father serves in the military.

The episode also documents the difficulty and misery of crossing borders during wartime and an impromptu “off-camera” interview with an anonymous escapee from then-Russian-occupied Melitopol. There is also a life-affirming on-camera exchange with a recently injured Ukrainian soldier and an emotional visit to the ever-expanding Lychakiv Cemetery, where recently killed soldiers are buried. All set among the unpredictability, suspense, and drama of air-raid sirens as Russia fires missiles into Ukraine.

But the show’s primary theme is the Ukrainian people’s steadfast, optimistic, and hopeful spirit as they bravely fight for survival and freedom.

In addition to Anastasia and Robert providing videography and direction, the episode was edited by Renzo Devia, Executive Producer at New York City-based Creador Pictures, and sound designed by New York City-based BtOVEN Music. The episode was audio mixed by Chaliwa Music + Sound in Miami, Florida. Julia Avramenko, a Ukrainian television professional living in New York City, provided Consulting Production services.

“Winning awards is never our objective, especially in this case,” says Robert G. Rose, Producer and Host. “However, I felt it was important for the creatives on this special episode to be recognized for their work and professionalism, especially under the circumstances. I’m grateful for the Tellys for recognizing their achievements,” Rose continued.

Raw Travel is currently in its Tenth Season of broadcast syndication and can be viewed in 180 U.S. cities in over 96% of US TV homes. Viewers have thus far helped raise over $20,000 to support grassroots organizations such as Care4Ukraine.org and Keep the Kids Learning, two organizations led by Joseph Nichols, an American logistics professional living in Ukraine. Viewers may visit RawTravelGiveBack.com to learn more and donate.

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Categories
Eastern Europe

TEN WAYS TO HELP UKRAINE

This site was put up rapidly in 2022 to respond quickly to the Russian full invasion of Ukraine. RawTravelUkraine.com is currently re-designing for a longer-term expansion, with the new site set to debut in December 2023, so please stay tuned.

The new site will feature a repository of our extensive and growing content emanating from and dedicated to Ukraine, research, resources, and various ways you can help, from monetary to volunteering, to militarily and politically.

In the meantime, here are TEN tangible ways you can help now!

1) TRAILER: View and share the “My Summer in Ukraine” trailer.

“My Summer in Ukraine” coming in 2024. Trailer up now.

2) VIEW OTHER UKRAINE VIDEOS: Videos produced before and after the full invasion HERE:

3) SEE PHOTOS: See photos from “My Summer in Ukraine” HERE.

4) READ BLOG 2023: “My Summer in Ukraine” 2023 HERE.

5) READ BLOG 2022: Summer of 2022 travel to Ukraine HERE

6) TAKE ACTION POLITICALLY: Please tell our politicians to continue to support Ukraine. You can visit this link for an easy way to do this. It takes less than two-minutes and is very effective (and needed). https://www.votervoice.net/RAZOMFORUKRAINE/Campaigns/107413/Respond

7) BUY MERCH: Empathy = Strength, Let Freedom Ring shirts and merch save lives. Order your Official Raw Travel “Empathy = Strength” Shirts and Mugs HERE

Each Empathy = Strength Shirt Helps Ukrainian Refugees.

Order the Empathy = Strength T-shirt that Rob wears on the show, and $10 of every order will support our efforts to help those in Ukraine directly, including our videographer, Anastasia’s father’s troop, who desperately need essential supplies.

Your “Empathy = Strength” T-shirt, Sweatshirt or Hoodie will literally save lives.

Or check our new Coffee Mugs as well. Same deal. All profits (approximately $10) will go to help our pals at Care4Ukraine.org and Keep the Kids Learning.

Empathy = Strength Coffee Mugs
Let Freedom Ring for Ukraine Coffee Mugs

Order your shirt and Mugs HERE

8) DONATE DIRECTLY: If you prefer to donate directly, you may do so at our GoFundMe page at the link below: https://gofund.me/ad765274

9) MORAL SUPPORT: Like & Follow on Social Media. Don’t forget to follow us on Social Media for more frequent updates @RawTravelTV on Facebook, Twitter Instagram and Threads

10) SPREAD THE WORD: Help us reach more people by spreading the link RawTravelUkraine.com on your social media.

Categories
North America

Raw Travel Presents – Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine!

RAW TRAVEL TV TO HELP FREEDOM RING IN UKRAINE!

Multifaceted Media Campaign Poised to Help Ukraine for the “Long Haul” –

NEW YORK, NY: June 1st, 2022 – AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV), producers of the nation’s most-watched travel show, Raw Travel®, announced “Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine” to help Ukrainian refugees. The multi-platform and multi-faceted initiative will provide grassroots, long-term financial, and tangible assistance to externally and internally displaced Ukrainian refugees and citizens affected by the Russian invasion. 

In June, producer, and host, Robert G. Rose will be filming in Paris, France, and then at the border of Poland and Ukraine with Raw Travel videographer and displaced Ukrainian refugee Anastasia Zui. Conditions permitting, they hope to go into Ukraine embedded with “Keep the Kids Learning” and “Help 4 Ukraine,” two small, independent organizations founded by American logistics engineer Joseph Nichols, living in Ukraine, and other Expatriates. The grassroots organizations are dedicated to helping keep Ukrainian refugee children and teachers in school and moving needed medicines and medical supplies from the US and Europe into Ukraine. 

On July 2nd and 3rd, 2022 just before USA Independence Day, Raw Travel will premiere a special episode entitled “Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine.” The special will feature updated, relevant Ukrainian segments that showcase the country before the 2022 invasion, along with updated narration and ways viewers can help. The episode will re-air on August 27th-28th. 

“Raw Travel offered valuable context to viewers when filming in Ukraine and the border areas of Russian-occupied Georgia in 2019,” said Robert G. Rose, Executive Producer and Host of the series. “Given our past coverage of Russian aggression’s consequences in both Georgia and Ukraine, we feel we can offer a unique perspective,” Rose continued. “I think we can show a different, potentially more uplifting angle of this tragedy that may inspire people to help the many good folks and organizations helping Ukraine on the ground, long after the raw emotion of Russia’s 2022 invasion has subsided, but the need persists.”

The “Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine” effort has already begun in a limited capacity

with on-air billboards and social media posts encouraging viewers to visit 

RawTravelGiveBack.com. The special web page is a constantly evolving, dedicated entry point for concerned viewers. There, they can get updates about Ukrainians featured in the show and donate directly to vetted organizations or buy specially designed Raw Travel “Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine” merchandise (shirts, mugs, glasses, etc.) benefitting the efforts of these organizations. 

Raw Travel’s milestone Season 10 begins September 19th, 2022. A trailer of Raw Travel’s Let Freedom Ring episode can be viewed https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nl88AHSCsGo

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ABOUT RAW TRAVEL TV

Raw Travel is an adventure travel & lifestyle series showcasing socially and environmentally aware, independent travel. The series weaves together themes of eco-tourism and voluntourism (giving back) with underground music and authentic culture in a unique way. Each weekend the show is seen in 174 U.S. cities on major broadcast affiliates and several international territories (Asia, Africa, Europe…). It can also be found on several major airlines. AIM Tell-A-Vision Group produces the show and oversees its domestic and international distribution. Visit RawTravel.tv for more information. 

ABOUT AIM TELL-A-VISION GROUP

AIM Tell-A-Vision (AIM TV) Group is an independent production, content, and distribution company founded by media veteran and entrepreneur Robert G. Rose. Since 2000, AIM TV has been producing and distributing positive, compelling content that reflects a mission of presenting “Media That Matters.” Visit AIMTVGroup.com for more information.

ABOUT KEEP THE KIDS LEARNING AND CARE 4 UKRAINE

Joseph Nichols is a US Citizen and logistics expert that has lived and worked in Ukraine since 2014. He and other US Expatriates are raising money for medical supplies and medicines distributed to Internally Displaced People (IDPs – Ukrainians displaced within Ukraine). They are also purchasing computers, books, and supplies to set up learning centers in Lviv, Ukraine, for children that the conflict has displaced. They have established transport lines across the Ukrainian/Polish border into most areas of the country and have received donations of supplies, equipment, and medicines. They are also offering space on trucks to other aid groups. Visit https://gofund.me/13be73ab and https://gofund.me/06fa1840 for more information on Keep The Kids Learning and Care 4 Ukraine. 

Categories
North America

Sneak Peek Episode 901

Recently wrapped edit on Episode #1 (Ep. 901) of Season 9, premiering in October 2021. Here’s a sneak peek of Dubrovnik, Croatia.

Categories
Caribbean North America

Finally… Puerto Rico!!

I’ve visited Puerto Rico before. I always stated that technically correct fact. But truth be told, I remembered little about my first and only trip so many years ago. I remember it was a long weekend. I remember I stayed in the newer part of San Juan, ventured into Old San Juan for the day, and the next day rented a car to drive to Ponce where it proceeded to rain. That’s it. That’s about all I remember. What a disservice.

Ever since Hurricane Maria I’ve been itching to get back. Something about witnessing people recovering from a devastatingly miserable experience from afar moves me to get closer. Then there was an earthquake, then Covid. After a long absence from travel (20 months), now seemed the time. So I scheduled back-to-back trips “abroad.” First to Croatia, then to Puerto Rico. In both instances, I was hardly alone.

US travelers abounded in Croatia. That was surprising to me. US travelers abounded in Puerto Rico. That did not surprise me. Puerto Rico is, after all, for better or for worse, a US territory and there is no need to test for a Covid infection before returning to the mainland. I’m not sure if that’s what drew so many US travelers to Puerto Rico during their traditional off-season (the summer), if it was just pent-up demand for travel or the fact that no passport is needed. My hunch is it is a combination of all of the above.

But I did get a distinct impression that many first-time “international” travelers were in town, at least in Old San Juan this time. They were likely taking advantage of the good deals to be had as Puerto Rico welcomed back travelers from the mainland US.

Palacio Provincial Hotel Courtyard

But, alas, those were just my first impressions during a second trip. This time, my second trip to Puerto Rico would be the second impression that meant the most. This time I’d be filming with a crew of locals, and I’d be staying in the heart of Old San Juan, at the beautifully recently restored “Palacio Provincial Hotel.”

I was told that this beautiful, historic, building in the heart of Old San Juan was originally built in the 1800s and that it was a former government building before being restored fairly recently.

It did not disappoint. I loved the hotel’s classic style and old-school atmosphere of Spanish style courtyards and high ceilings- while simultaneously basking in the modern, almost luxurious features like an infinity pool, hot tub, gym, uber-comfy bed, modern hot shower, super fast wifi, etc.

Typical Puerto Rican Cuisine at Restaurant El Jibarito

But my favorite thing about Palacio Provincial was location, location, location. I was within walking distance of so many sites, great bars, and restaurants. Indeed, this trip, I felt a part of Old San Juan.

Almost every morning, I’d head to the corner coffee and pastry kiosk at the park nearby and get a Cafe Negro (black coffee) con Mallorca sandwich pastry. Or I’d hit up the Restaurant El Jibarito nearby for an authentic, down-home Puerto Rican lunch.

Or visit the Poets Passage on open mic night. Here I’d be treated to traditional poetry slam from poets as far away as Minnesota; or some Brazilian Batucada fused with Puerto Rican Plena and African drumming from a surprise musical act Baturepike who simply rocked the place.

Thanks to my local pals and film crew from Discover Puerto Rico, I’d eat very well (it was Rocio from the Spoon Experience who introduced me to my new favorite sandwich, the Mallorca) while venturing outside of Old San Juan frequently.

Our visit to the nearby beach community of Loiza was memorable for a few reasons. Mainly thanks to Rafi from the famous foodie Vlog and IG account La Mafia who showed me the ropes of eating Alcapurrías and Bacalaítos (two types of cuisine I’d never even heard of before).

Food Kiosk in Loiza

Rafi instinctively knew which local food kiosks were best and did the thinking for me. I’ve never interviewed anyone on the show with such an obvious knowledge and love of their local cuisine. We both did the eating, and I didn’t need to eat dinner that evening. I can’t speak for Rafi’s dinner that evening but given the performance he put in at lunch, I do recall wondering how the guy maintains any semblance of svelte appearance.

We also visited gorgeous Bahia Beach Resort to see the work the resort is doing to save Sea Turtles, Manatees, and various bird species on the island.

The “Alma De Bahia Foundation,” which translates to “the Soul of Bahia,” is their non-profit arm focusing on local sustainability through conservation initiatives and environmental education.

The Foundation works very closely with the residents and guests at Bahia to give back to our community and the natural environment. Our guide, Marcela, is an inspiring mixture of environmental warrior / marine biology nerd. She knows her stuff.

Marcela with one of the local dog rescues

Marcela kindly offered us a bonus tour of the rescue shelter for dogs (watch the show to see how that ties into saving wildlife) and their farm, where they grow fruits and vegetables for the resort and surrounding community.

Speaking of farms, I must be getting old because I have this inexplicable desire to get back to my farm boy roots these days. Which I find ironic considering my city boy ways (yes, I know, I’m far from a “boy” anymore, but you get the point).

Anyhow, one of my favorite day trips outside of OSJ was a visit to the town of Maniti to tour Frutos Del Guacabo . There I finally milked a goat successfully, putting the “great Romanian goat milking scandal” from Season 2 in the rear view mirror. I hope!

Feeling out my future?

I also learned a new term, culinary agriculture, which is a fancy way of saying that you’ll get to taste some delicious results of their cutting-edge hydroponic and natural farming methods.

Efran showed us how it’s grown. Chef Adrian showed us how it’s cooked. And , you guessed it, I showed them how it’s eaten.

Other day trips were on our agenda, like our trip out to El Hippie Waterfall in Naguabo. Unfortunately, it had rained earlier and created a situation where I wouldn’t be able to get into the raging water. But it made an alternative beauty that showcased just a taste of the tremendous power of nature (though most Puerto Ricans likely don’t need reminding).

The raging El Hippie Waterfall

We ended the “official” shoot with a trip to Fajardo. After I finally got my mofongo fix at a late lunch, we night-kayaked to the Nestor Martinez Luminescent Bio Bay, one of three in Puerto Rico and five in the whole world (all in the Caribbean). Because of the temperature of the water, light pollution, and overall climate change, the luminescent critters took some work to see. But my favorite thing about the whole experience was the relaxing kayak trip back (going with the current on the way back) and hearing the sounds of the water and coqui frogs singing. I could have stayed out there all night, if they’d let me.

But alas, I had to fly back the next day and get to work editing, writing scripts, backing up, and in general, getting ready for Season Nine. We were far ahead pre-covid but now are behind. But I’m so happy to be traveling again, and I’m so grateful for this opportunity to get a second opportunity to visit Puerto Rico.

Speaking of covid, I was very comfortable filming there. Most people I knew or worked with closely indicated they were vaccinated and the retail establishments, generally speaking, enforced mask policy. I was tracking the numbers, they were lower than where I live in NYC and far lower than parts of the unvaccinated USA. Puerto Ricans seem to understand tragedy, and more importantly, the resilience required to overcome tragedy. They did not seem eager to court more tragedy and seemed to understand the balance of living their lives, making a living, while doing everything possible to keep everyone, visitors and locals alike, as safe as possible. It worked for me.

BaturePike at Poet’s Passage in Old San Juan

Yes, I was only in Puerto Rico for five days, but thanks to so many, this second trip was far more memorable than the first. So when I say it feels like the first time, this is what I mean. Besides, if I forget any details, this time, for better or worse, we have it on video… well, most of it! And besides, it gives me a good reason to return.

See more photos of our adventure HERE.

Look for the first one of two episodes of Raw Travel’s trip to Puerto Rico to premiere in November 2021. Stay tuned to facebook, twitter, and RawTravel.tv/Episodes .

Categories
Eastern Europe Europe

Digging Dubrovnik’s Alternative Side – Port Gruz

I recently went abroad for the first time in 20 months to film. I had both my jabs back in April, so I was itching to use my get out of jail- I mean, get out of the USA, free card, and Croatia was welcoming vaccinated US travelers. I’d never been. This seemed an opportune time to hit up this over-touristed travel darling before the crowds bounce entirely back. I’m glad I did.

Dubrovnik’s Old Town

I began my trip in Dubrovnik, staying in the Old Town, which seemed crowded to me. But I was told the crowds were like 40% of 2019 levels. Dubrovnik has been struggling with over-tourism the past decade or so, culminating and untenable crowds in 2019, so 40% is not necessarily a bad thing. Of course, the locals catering to tourists would like to make more money, I get that. But the reality on the ground is many of the more touristic local establishments cater to same-day in-and-out cruise crowds. Hence, quality control is not a big deal in many places. It was also expensive. While Dubrovnik tourism is working to come back smarter, not bigger, the Old City is charming and will always be a draw for travelers, pushing locals out. Thus it didn’t feel very punk rock.

Ivo of Urban and Veggies
Urban and Veggies – Delish! 

But I was told to head over to the Port Gruz (Gruz Harbor) area, and indeed I got a much different vibe. Port towns always seem a bit more bohemian, and I’m not 100% sure why, but probably back in the day they were a little rough around the edges, while also being welcoming point for travelers (unlike the Old Town which had only two entrances and required foreign visitors to quarantine centuries ago… well before Covid). 

Port Gruz felt more real, if not exactly punk rock, at least DIY. After stopping in a new vegetarian restaurant I’d heard about called Urban and Veggies, I had one of the most amazing vegetarian meals of my life. Scratch that, one of the most amazing meals ever, vegan or not. Ivo, the talented proprietor, wasn’t expecting me, yet he rolled out the red carpet and prepared a feast fit for King whatever-his-name was from Game of Thrones (GOT was famously filmed on location in Dubrovnik). I was hungry but there was no way I could eat that entire spread myself. 

Dubrovnik Beer Company

After stuffing myself, I waddled my way to the Dubrovnik Beer Company, where I met the proprietor Dario and his merry band of craft beer mates. The beer was excellent, but the conversation was even better. These smart fellas are doing everything they can to showcase another more authentic side of Dubrovnik away from the tourists-laden old town, and it’s working… or at least it worked for me.

Kreso of Red History Museum

After the sun went down, Dario escorted me down a dark side street to meet Kreso, owner of the Red History Museum. Kreso refused to talk shop until we’d had a few shots of Rakia and no arguments from me. After three or four shots of Rakia, I was ready to relive some communist history.

The Original “Yugo” from Yugoslavia

The Red History Museum is a highly entertaining way to see what the former Yugoslavia was like during communism. For those who don’t know, Yugoslavia had a much different history than the rest of the Soviet Union, thanks to Tito, the enigmatic, Dictator who held the territory together through his reign. Ask a Croatian today about Tito, and you’ll get decidedly mixed reviews. Still, there is no denying he kept the place together as shortly after his death, a power struggle ensued, war broke out. Some of the worst crimes against humanity and mass murder in recent history occurred.

Head to Port Gruz in Dubrovnik, Croatia to avoid crowds


But all that seems blissfully behind Croatia now. You can still see the wounds of war, but not so much on the Dalmation coast where Dubrovnik is located. Though I did stop by the Museum of Martyrs to get an idea of what the town went through. I’d find much more damage and destruction as I wound my way inward toward the Serbian border town of Osijek. However, I still had a few days left on the Dalmatian coast. Next stop, Split. You guessed it, it was time to split for Split but not before bidding a regretful goodbye to the friendly folks of Dubrovnik and especially my new pals in the Port Gruz area.

Categories
North America Public Relations

Raw Travel is Go For Season 9

– TV’s Most Watched Travel Show Ready to Help Lead Travel’s Comeback –

NEW YORK, NY: July 15th, 2021 – AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV) announced that its first-run, syndicated TV series Raw Travel® has been greenlit for a ninth consecutive season. The long-running, syndicated travel show’s new season will kick off in late September with a retrospective from the early days of Raw Travel’s past episodes. Viewers will have the opportunity to vote on their desired destinations and episodes at RawTravelRebooked.com and on the show’s various social media platforms.   

Coming in November, a full slate of brand-new episodes will debut. These new episodes will include Raw Travel Host and Producer Robert G. Rose’s first trip to film abroad in over 18 months as he heads to Croatia to film. It will also include a taste of the Caribbean as Raw Travel showcases Puerto Rico’s road to recovery from Hurricane Maria and the pandemic. 

Next up, the series will turn its attention to the US, with travel in the northeastern United States, including a stop in New York City documenting the Big Apple’s comeback. In typical Raw Travel style, the show will focus on the less publicized, off-the-beaten-path hidden gems and neighborhoods of the beloved city that was once the pandemic’s global epicenter. 

Then it’s RV Road Trip time as Rose jumps in the new Raw Travel branded Jeep Gladiator and Sunset Sunray Mini Travel Trailer on a solo road trip originating in Tennessee before heading on a route westward. Current plans call for Rose to make his way to the Pine Ridge Native American Reservation in Pine Ridge, South Dakota, which he initially visited in 2016. Rose will document how the nation’s poorest county has fared in the years following. Rose will then loop the travel trailer back home, stopping and filming at points of interest along the way.

“Like so many other vaccinated travelers, I can’t wait to get back out in the world to see our neighbors,” says Host and Executive Producer Robert G. Rose. “Travel has always been a way to heal my soul. It’s been a rough stretch for so many people. I hope that we can help provide some relief and inspiration for those seeking travel’s healing power,” Rose added. 

Raw Travel’s 9th Season will debut in over 170+ US cities in over 95% of US TV homes. The show currently airs each weekend in the USA on broadcast affiliates such as WNYW Fox 5 & WWOR My9 in New York, KCBS 2 & KCAL 9 in Los Angeles, WCVB ABC 5 in BostonKPRC NBC 2 in Houston, etc., with multiple airings each week in most markets. 

Raw Travel continues to expand its international footprint on various outlets worldwide. Viewers can also watch it via several In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) offerings on airlines such as American Air, Delta, Air Canada, Virgin America, and more. The show’s first season can also be streamed on various platforms such as Vimeo On Demand, Crackle, Chicken Soup for the Soul, and Flex, with more being announced soon. Visit RawTravel.tv for more information. 

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ABOUT RAW TRAVEL TV

Raw Travel is an adventure travel & lifestyle series showcasing socially and environmentally aware, independent travel. The series weaves together themes of eco-tourism and voluntourism (giving back) with underground music and authentic culture in a unique way. Each weekend the show is seen in over 170 U.S. cities on major broadcast affiliates as well as in several international territories (Asia, Africa, Europe, etc.). It can also be found on several major airlines and Over the Top (OTT Digital) platforms as well.  AIM Tell-A-Vision Group produces the show and oversees its global distribution. Visit RawTravel.tv for more information.

ABOUT AIM TELL-A-VISION GROUP

AIM Tell-A-Vision (AIM TV) Group is an independent production, content and distribution company founded by media veteran and entrepreneur Robert G. Rose. Since 2000, AIM TV has been producing and distributing positive, compelling content that reflects a mission of presenting “Media That Matters.” Visit AIMTVGroup.com for more information.