You might hear my stomach growling as you listen to this delicious episode. Join us as we eat our way through Mineral Wells, Texas, a small town with a big reputation as "The Wellness Capital of Texas."

Our culinary adventure begins at Fro Pro Cafe, where breakfast comes with an unexpected bonus—a sophisticated body composition scan that reveals far more than your weight. The cafe owner explains how this technology helps customers understand their true health metrics beyond BMI, tracking everything from muscle mass to hydration levels. While Alexa enjoys a colorful acai bowl, Rory discovers the unique purple sweet potato flavor of ube in a protein-packed breakfast shake.

The day continues at City Meats and Market, where wellness takes on a distinctly Texan twist with high-quality, locally-sourced meats and specialty grocery items. This multipurpose establishment flows seamlessly into connecting boutique shops, creating an immersive small-town shopping experience. We meet passionate local business owners who reveal their community-first approach to commerce—rather than competing, they actively send customers to each other's shops.

At The Market at 76067 (named for the local zip code), we discover an innovative approach to supporting local artisans. Instead of each vendor having a separate space, products are organized by category, creating a cohesive shopping experience while still celebrating individual makers. The owner shares how this collaborative model has transformed their downtown, with over 70% of sales now coming from tourists.

We grabbed Rose's book here! You can learn more about her from her podcast here: and www.BeneathTheFigTree.org

Our day culminates with dinner at Second Bar and Kitchen inside the historic Crazy Water Hotel. Under the direction of a New York chef, the restaurant maintains its Texas roots through locally-sourced ingredients proudly listed on the menu. Don't miss their "fire cider" shot—a non-alcoholic wellness elixir that packs flavor and health benefits in equal measure.

Through our food-focused exploration, we uncover the true meaning of wellness in this unique Texas town—it's about quality ingredients, strong community connections, and businesses that lift each other up rather than competing. Ready to taste it for yourself? Visit minerallwells.org to plan your own foodie adventure.

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VisitMineralWells.org

Trading pavement for pedals, paddles, and parks, our journey through Mineral Wells revealed a Texas treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be explored. From the moment we stepped into Clark Gardens Botanical Park, we were captivated by its magic – wheelchair-accessible pathways winding through vibrant displays, waterfalls sparkling in sunlight, and ponds where black and white swans glide gracefully alongside strutting peacocks.

What makes this garden extraordinary is its humble origins as Max Clark and his wife's private yard, gradually transformed into a botanical paradise now recognized as an official best public garden in Texas. During our visit, we experienced their annual Grow Festival, a month-long celebration of art, wellness, and Texas heritage featuring themed weekends, hands-on activities, and special events like crawfish boils. The Quanah Parker "One Man, Two Worlds" exhibit tucked inside the on-site chapel, powerfully chronicled the story of Cynthia Ann Parker and her son Quanah, the last Comanche chief – a fascinating glimpse into the cultural collisions that shaped frontier America.

Our adventure continued at Lake Mineral Wells State Park, where we hiked through the aptly named Penitentiary Hollow with its impressive sandstone cliffs and hidden caves. Rock climbers, hikers, campers and mountain bikers all find their paradise here, with access to a 20-mile trailway connecting to neighboring Weatherford. The highlight came when we partnered with Spartan Adventure and Rentals for some lake exploration – though one of us learned the hard way that "stand-up paddleboarding" can quickly become "stand-up splashboarding" when attempting to model a new shirt! Despite the unexpected swim, being surrounded by herons, ducks, and the gentle lap of water against our boards provided that perfect reset that only nature can deliver.

Ready to answer nature's call? Plan your own outdoor escape at visitmineralwells.org and discover why this charming Texas town deserves a prominent spot on your travel wishlist. Subscribe to our podcast for more adventures, and follow us @TheROAMies on all social platforms to join our journey!

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VisitMineralWells.com

Tucked away in the heart of Texas lies Mineral Wells, a town whose identity was forever shaped by a peculiar discovery in 1877. When Judge Alvis Lynch and his wife settled in this then-barren land, they struck something more valuable than gold – mineral-rich water with seemingly miraculous healing properties.

With Rose Jordan as our expert guide, we journey through time to uncover how this unassuming place transformed into "America's Great Health Resort" where people would flock to "drink their way to health." The story behind the famous "Crazy Water" name proves particularly fascinating – originating from a local woman whose mental health noticeably improved after regularly drinking from the town's third well. What was once dismissed as superstition is now understood through the lens of modern science as potentially addressing severe mineral deficiencies affecting brain chemistry.

The architectural treasures of Mineral Wells tell their own compelling stories. With over 100 historic buildings preserved in its nationally registered historic district, the town stands as a testament to resilience and preservation. We explore the magnificent Baker Hotel, constructed in 1929 just after the stock market crash, which hosted celebrities like Judy Garland and The Three Stooges before closing its doors in 1972. After sitting vacant for decades, this architectural marvel is now undergoing a painstaking restoration that symbolizes the town's rebirth – a project locals jokingly said would happen "when pigs fly."

The story of Mineral Wells is ultimately one of reinvention and hope. From its decline following FDA restrictions and the closure of Fort Walters military base to its recent designation as the "Wellness Capital of Texas," the community demonstrates how honoring heritage while embracing modern wellness can breathe new life into a historic destination. Join us as we discover how this remarkable town is reclaiming its identity through water, wellness, and a community that refused to give up on their flying pigs.

Also mentioned on this episode: Episodes 211, 212, & 224

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Join us as we kick off our exploration of Mineral Wells, Texas - the unexpected wellness haven just left of Dallas-Fort Worth that's captivating health enthusiasts and history buffs alike. We're diving straight into what makes this charming town truly special: its legendary mineral-rich waters with healing properties so remarkable they earned the nickname "Crazy Water."

You'll hear the fascinating origin story from 1881 when a woman suffering from dementia reportedly found relief after regularly drinking from a local well, transforming it into a destination for thousands seeking similar benefits. We take you inside our first-hand experience at the Crazy Coffee and Water Bar, where we sample four distinct varieties of mineral water - each with its own unique properties, taste profile, and wellness benefits. From the purified Number One to America's highest mineral content bottled water (the legendary Number Four), we guide you through what makes each special and how locals recommend incorporating them into your wellness routine.

The nutritionist in Alexa couldn't resist breaking down exactly what makes these waters so beneficial - from their alkaline properties that help reduce acidity and toxins to the impressive mineral profile that includes sodium bicarbonate, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. These natural elements work together to support everything from bone strength to immune function. We also share our rejuvenating experience at the mineral baths, where Number Three water combined with micro-bubble technology created the perfect detoxifying soak.

Whether you're fascinated by natural wellness approaches, curious about unique American travel destinations, or simply love discovering hidden gems with rich histories, this episode offers a refreshing dive into a truly special place. Subscribe now and join us for the next three episodes as we continue exploring the wonders of Mineral Wells!

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The ROAMies take listeners on a global tour of exceptional wellness destinations perfect for rejuvenation and self-care. We share our carefully researched favorite spots across Switzerland, Europe, and beyond, providing a starting point for your wellness travel planning.

• Switzerland stands as the pinnacle of wellness retreats with luxury options like Burgenstock Resort and Chenot Palace on Lake Lucerne
• Grand Resort Bad Ragaz offers thermal waters while Clinique La Prairie provides science-driven longevity programs
• Germany and Austria feature notable destinations including Villa Stephanie in Baden-Baden and the eco-luxury Bio Hotel Stanglwirt
• Thailand hosts world-renowned retreats like Chiva-Som and Kamalaya, specializing in detox and emotional healing
• Unique global options include Ananda in the Himalayas, Bushman's Kloof in South Africa, and the Arctic Bath Hotel in Sweden
• The Blue Lagoon in Iceland provides exceptional mineral-rich waters for skin rejuvenation and relaxation
• Next episode will explore Mineral Wells, the wellness capital of Texas

Please subscribe, rate, and share our podcast with your friends. Like and follow us on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and X at TheROAMies. Visit our website at www.TheROAMies.com.

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Thanks for your ongoing support!
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The ROAMies
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Alexa and Rory share their favorite food memories from traveling the world as a musical duo, highlighting both exotic delicacies and everyday dishes that have left lasting impressions.

• Switzerland's rösti (shredded potatoes) and raclette (melted cheese over potatoes) rank among their all-time favorites
• African game meats in Zimbabwe where Rory tried 13 different steaks in one sitting including warthog, kudu, and impala
• Unforgettable beetroot pizza topped with arugula, pine nuts and honey in Finland
• The smoked mac and cheese on Scotland's Caledonian Railway overnight train
• Simple but memorable dishes like Tuscan bean soup and Swiss salad mixt
• Healthy travel finds including fresh mango purée in Cairo and açai bowls in Hawaii
• Strange food experiences such as aged Egyptian cheese and Finland's challenging salmiakki candy
• The joy of finding good chocolate around the world, with Finnish chocolate being their favorite

Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and X @TheRomies and visit our website www.theromies.com for more travel adventures!

Thanks for your ongoing support!
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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies
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Purchase Klean Kanteen!
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Vegabond Teas - Sandia Peak - The de-stress Blend:

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Ladies!~ Learn more about how to pack your kits - LIGHTLY when you take the course, Baggage Freedom Express by Her Packing List. Sign up for the waiting list now!

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Thanks for your ongoing support!
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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies
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