How I Created My First Podcast Using Google NotebookLM

New AI Podcast Tool NotebookLM

I am one of those who thought I would never create a podcast. To tell you the truth, it was a lack of resources needed to create a professional-grade podcast. However, everything changed when AI came to the rescue.

I was seeing a lot of posts online about a new AI research tool called Google NotebookLM that was taking the Internet by storm. I was reluctant to try it out, but at one point I gave in.

I was shocked to find out how easy it was to create a podcast with zero knowledge. It took me like 20 minutes to figure out and I was on my way to generating a professional-grade podcast where 2 people were talking about my travel hack article or video I had created before.

The AI voices and interactions in Google NotebookLM's podcasts are so incredibly lifelike that it's hard to believe they're not real humans. I sent my first podcast to a few friends without telling them it was AI-generated, and they were completely fooled!

The simplicity of creating a podcast was also astounding. First, I had to give my sources on the NotebookLM page. You can also provide notes to add to those sources. I gave the AI my YouTube video link, an article from my website AhmedDawn.com and a few notes on Notepad and that’s it.

Also, NotebookLM generated a FAQ, Table of Contents, Timeline, Briefing, etc. based on what you are feeding it. I am using these summaries for my podcast video description. So everything the AI generated has some uses for my podcast video.

NotebookLM opens up endless opportunities for content creators. This is another example of how AI tech is limitless and there are a lot more mind-blowing crazy things to come in the future.

Air Canada Economy Class Flight Review from Toronto to Tokyo

Economy Class Flight Review: Air Canada AC 009 from YYZ-NRT

Our Air Canada flight Boeing 777-300 ER was almost full. We booked two seats well ahead of time to avoid sitting next to a stranger. These seats were only two in a row, so we had both the window and aisle seats. The seats were comfortable and there was plenty of leg room.

The airline provided a pillow and blanket, but the washrooms were basic and lacked amenities. This reminded me of an EVA Air economy flight going to Manila where there were amenities in the washroom.

The food was served in three waves. Lunch was a Japanese noodle dish with corn and chickpeas, beef rice (or chicken), bread, soy sauce and a dessert. Our mid-flight meal was a tuna wrap and a cookie. The last meal was breakfast: scrambled eggs with potatoes, sausage, and a fruit salad.

I found the food to be good, and appreciated the variety of options. Also, the airline staff were friendly and attentive. Overall, I was satisfied with my experience on Air Canada and would fly with them again.

Here are some tips for a long-haul flight. Here are the things we did to make this flight comfortable:

-  We paid for our seats we mentioned above.

- We arrived at the airport early to avoid crowds and explore the lounges.

- We had a light carry-on bag only (we checked one small piece of luggage), which made going through security and the airport easier.

- We used a trip tracking app like Kayak or TripIt to stay organized and avoid missing flights.

- We downloaded movies, TV shows, music, books, etc. to our phones or tablets for entertainment.

- We used a Bluetooth adapter to connect our earbuds to the in-flight entertainment system.

- We used the Air Canada app to keep an eye on our flight and made sure everything was OK.

To view this trip in a video, please visit this link: Air Canada Toronto to Tokyo Economy Flight Review: Is it Worth It?

The Ultimate Guide to Surviving Long Flights: Lessons Learned from YYZ-NRT-BKK

Long Flight Survival Tips

Pre-Flight Preparation

Currency Exchange - Exchanging currency at the airport is a big NO. You will end up paying more fees and charges. Change a little bit of currency at your home country to survive the first couple days. Exchange for the rest at your destination country.  

Strategic Seat Booking – If you are a couple, book 2 seats in a row where no one else will be sitting with you and you will have both the aisle and the window seat. For solo travelers, I recommend the aisle seat if your flight is over 6 hours, so you can easily get up and walk every 2 hours.

Smart Packing - Packing light with comfortable clothing and essentials is crucial for a pleasant journey.

Light Carry-On Only - We check a small luggage which is shared by both of us. Our carry-on is also small enough to be considered a personal item. Traveling with a light carry-on or personal item bag can streamline your journey through security and make navigating the airport easier.

Online Check-In - Checking in online 24 hours before your flight is a great way to save time at the airport. You will have dedicated lines with lesser volumes to get your boarding pass and luggage tags and drop off your luggage and head to the gate directly.

Early Arrival - Arriving at the airport early allows you to relax and explore the airport or lounges, reducing stress and improving your overall travel experience. We arrive 3 to 4 hours early. Even if we are stuck in traffic for an hour, we still won’t miss the flight.

Airport Lounges - If you have access to airport lounges, consider using them for relaxation, complimentary food and drinks, and a more comfortable environment.

Trip Tracking App & Flight Apps – Always use a trip-tracking app like Kayak or TripIt. These apps show your trip visually to give you a better understanding of your trip. Also, if you double booked the same night twice and or missed one night, you will be able to visualize it.

I was out one night in Bangkok and these apps saved my trip by showing me my mistake. On a long trip, missing one night could ruin your entire month-long trip like a chain reaction.

In-Flight Comfort

Movement and Hydration - Getting up and walking around regularly, along with staying hydrated, are essential for preventing discomfort and promoting circulation. This is the reason I recommended booking an aisle seat earlier.

Skin Care - Using a hand cream and lip balm can combat the drying effects of airplane air.

Noise Reduction - Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can create a more peaceful environment for relaxation or sleep.

In-Flight Entertainment - Take advantage of the in-flight entertainment options. Purchase a Bluetooth adapter for airplanes to connect your earbuds to the in-flight entertainment system.

I discuss these tips and more on this video here. Strategic planning and packing light and carrying essentials can make or break your long flight and the entire trip. Check out my Travel Hacks Video Playlist for more videos before your next trip.

Ao Nang: The Top Choice for Your Krabi Trip

Ao Nang: Your Gateway to Krabi's Best Attractions | Why Choose Ao Nang Over Krabi Town and Railay Beach

When planning a trip to Krabi, Thailand, one of the most crucial decisions is choosing your accommodation. The three main options are Ao Nang, Krabi Town, and Railay Beach. While each location has its charms, Ao Nang emerges as the most convenient and versatile choice for most travelers.

Ao Nang: The Perfect Starting Point

Ao Nang's strategic location makes it an excellent base for exploring Krabi's diverse attractions. Situated on the Andaman Sea, it offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant atmosphere. From Ao Nang, you can easily access popular destinations like the Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island, and Koh Lanta and all-day trips.

Convenience and Accessibility

Ao Nang's proximity to Krabi International Airport ensures a hassle-free arrival and departure. Furthermore, Ao Nang boasts a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.

A Thriving Scene

Ao Nang offers a vibrant atmosphere with a plethora of restaurants, bars, and shops. The town also comes alive at night with lively bars and clubs, offering a variety of entertainment options for those seeking a more lively atmosphere.

Krabi Town: A Local Experience

While Krabi Town offers a more authentic Thai experience, it can be less convenient for tourists. Located further inland, it requires transportation to reach the beaches and popular attractions. While it has its charm with its traditional markets and temples, it may not be the most ideal choice for those seeking easy access to the island's highlights.

Railay Beach: A Secluded Paradise

Railay Beach is a stunning peninsula accessible only by boat. It offers secluded beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, and a tranquil atmosphere. However, the lack of land transportation makes it inconvenient for exploring other parts of Krabi. Additionally, accommodation and dining options can be limited, especially during peak season.

Conclusion

Ao Nang's combination of convenience, accessibility, and a vibrant atmosphere makes it the best place to stay in Krabi. Its central location, diverse accommodation options, and proximity to popular attractions ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Ao Nang is the ideal base for your Krabi adventure.

Tomtoc Travel Backpack 28L: After One Month Travels - A Review

Tomtoc Travel Backpack 28L: A Review

Disclaimer: This review is based on personal experience and may not reflect the views of all users.

I recently embarked on a month-long adventure through Thailand and Dubai, armed with the Tomtoc Travel Backpack 28L. While this budget-friendly option offered some practical features, it fell short in terms of comfort and organization.

One of the most significant drawbacks with this backpack was the lack of comfort during extended wear. The shoulder straps, though padded, weren't sufficiently supportive for long hours of travel. This led to discomfort and fatigue, especially during extended wear. Additionally, the bag's organizational compartments were limited, making it difficult to keep items in place and easily accessible.

The laptop compartment proved to be particularly problematic, especially during airport security screenings. Accessing the laptop from the compartment was cumbersome and time consuming, often slowing me down. The bag's dual-sided access, while convenient in theory, rendered the locking system ineffective. The zippers, though not entirely uncooperative, were not as lock friendly as I would have liked. While I managed to secure one side with a lock as a deterrent, locking both sides felt redundant and unnecessary.

Furthermore, even when using the compression straps, the bag still seemed bulky. A more effective compression system would have helped maintain a compact shape, making it more convenient for air travel.

Despite these shortcomings, the Tomtoc Travel Backpack 28L did have a few redeeming qualities. Its affordability made it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. The bag's versatility allowed me to use it as both a carry-on and a personal item, which was convenient for many travel scenarios. Moreover, the quick-access pocket proved to be invaluable during airport security checks, saving me time and hassle.

In conclusion, while the Tomtoc Travel Backpack 28L offers some practical features, its shortcomings in terms of comfort, organization, and laptop accessibility make it a less-than-ideal choice for frequent travelers. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that prioritizes comfort and functionality, I recommend exploring other options on the market.