Global Travel Planning
The Global Travel Planning Podcast is hosted by independent traveller Tracy Collins, who has visited more than 60 countries over 40 years. Each episode features first-hand trip reports, destination planning guides and practical advice from travellers who have done the trips themselves. Destinations span Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa and Australia, with tips suited to both first-time international travellers and seasoned visitors. New episodes are released every fortnight, with show notes and travel guides available at globaltravelplanning.com.
Episodes
Discovering the Falkland Islands: Penguins, Wildlife, and Local Life
If your Antarctica cruise calls at the Falkland Islands, this episode is for you. Seventh-generation Falkland Islander Roxy King-Clark of Lupin Tours joins Tracy to share how to make the most of your time there, whether you're stopping for a day on a cruise or flying in.- Where the Falklands are and what British Overseas Territory status means- Growing up in Stanley as a seventh-generation Fa
3 Week Vietnam Itinerary: Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City
We map out our full 19-day Vietnam itinerary, from Hanoi to Da Nang, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, including the tours we rate and the hotels we would happily book again. We also share the tough bits, from a Ha Long Bay trip that went wrong to a hospital visit that proved why flexibility and travel insurance matter.- Our 19-day route across four stops, and why it works well with Cambodia- Why a pre
Big Five Safari Near Johannesburg: Our Pilanesberg Week
Two and a half hours from Johannesburg, no malaria tablets, no light aircraft, and we still saw all of the Big Five in a day. After three weeks in Cape Town, we headed north for Doug's very first safari, staying at Kwa Maritane Lodge inside Pilanesberg Game Reserve and heading out on private game drives with our guide, Heinrich.Why Pilanesberg Works for a First Safari from JohannesburgWhat th
How to Add Soft Adventure to Your European Itinerary
Adventure gets sold to us as faster, harder, higher. In this week's Tracy chats with Lynne Nieman, founder of Wander Your Way and Wander Your Way Adventures, about soft adventure travel in Europe and why gentle can be the most memorable way to explore.What soft adventure means and what it avoidsWhy Europe's countryside and small towns make travel feel more connectedSimple ways to add a s
Cape Town in Winter: What to Know Before You Go
Winter might not be the obvious time to visit Cape Town, but after three weeks there we would happily do it all again. Cape Town in winter turns out to be quieter, cheaper and far more enjoyable than we had envisaged, so in this episode we share the practical details that made our stay smooth, from where we based ourselves to how we handled transport, tipping and staying connected.In this episode:
South Africa Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in Cape Town in Winter
We share the Cape Town highlights from our three week winter stay, from Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront to day trips for penguins, history and wine. We also talk honestly about what surprised us, what we skipped, and how to plan around weather, tours and travel comfort.The tablecloth cloud and winter wind can change everything fast, so we explain how we handled tickets, when to go, and h
A Wine Lover's Guide to Planning a Trip to France
We talk with Paris-based wine expert Elisa about how to plan a French wine trip that fits your taste, your budget, and your travel style, whether you are wine-curious or a long-time collector. We share practical ways to choose regions, book tastings, and build a full vineyard experience that goes beyond the bottle. • France as a top wine travel destination thanks to wine, food, landscapes and cult
Slow Travel With a Baby and a Dog [with Riana Ang-Canning]
Nine months on the road with a five-month-old baby and a twelve-year-old chihuahua is ambitious. Doing it after your carefully planned French long-stay visa is rejected two days before the flight is something else entirely.In this week's episode, Tracy is joined by travel writer Riana Ang-Canning of Teaspoon of Adventure, freshly home in Vancouver after a slow travel adventure that took her f
10 Essential Travel Tips for Every International Trip
After more than 20 years and close to 50 countries together, Doug and I share the actual routine we follow before every international trip. Not a generic list, just the 10 things that keep us organised, connected and confident.Booking your airport transfer in advanceeSIMs and VPNs, sorted before you leave homeThe apps we download before we flyTravel insurance and why it matters more than you think
Why Travel Is About So Much More Than an Itinerary
AI can generate an itinerary in seconds. What it cannot do is sit with your story, hear what a place means to you, or notice the detail that changes everything. That is what this conversation is about.Tracy and Cate from My Germany Vacation explore why the most unforgettable trips are built on personal meaning, not perfect lists, covering:Cate's 2019 Germany road trip with Aaron and why shari
Train Travel in Türkiye: A 12-Day Family Trip on a Budget
£25 for a 14-hour sleeper train with beds, a sink, and power points. £6.50 for a seven-hour scenic ride across central Türkiye. If you've ever assumed Türkiye is a fly-and-spend destination, this episode is here to change that picture entirely.Tracy is joined by Sinead, a York-based travel blogger and passionate train traveller, to walk through her family's 12-day loop: Istanbul, down to
How to plan an Outer Hebrides road trip to Lewis and Harris
Scotland's Outer Hebrides don't forgive poor planning. Ferries sell out, accommodation is limited, and the roads demand your full attention. But get it right and you're rewarded with some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. In this episode Tracy has just returned from Lewis, Harris, and Skye and is sharing exactly how she put the trip together so you can do the same.We
My Favourite Destinations, Top Travel Tips and the Story Behind Global Travel Planning
Travel has shaped everything about who I am, and I wanted to get personal and answer the questions you’ve been sending in: why I travel so much, how it all began, what destinations I love most, and how I actually plan a trip without turning it into a stressful project. If you enjoy honest stories and practical travel planning, this solo chat is for you.I talk through the places that keep calling m
Europe by Train: Real Tips and Highlights from a Three-Week Multi-Country Rail Trip
Narelle Mather joins Tracy to share how she planned and took a three-and-a-half-week multi-country train trip through Europe with her husband, sister, and a close friend. Starting in London and finishing in Warsaw, the group travelled through France, Switzerland, Austria, and Poland using a first-class Eurail pass bought at a discount more than a year in advance. Narelle covers everything from cho
How to Plan an Independent Trip to China: Tips for First-Time Visitors
How to Plan an Independent Trip to China: Trains, Apps, Payments & Real TipsWhen you think of China, you probably think of Beijing, Shanghai, or the Great Wall. But planning an independent trip across such a vast and culturally different country can feel overwhelming.In this episode of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins is joined by traveller Lucy, who shares insights from her r
Philippines Trip Report: Moalboal Eco Lodge Experience
In this episode of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins and co-host Doug Collins swap roles with special guest interviewer Amanda Kendle as they share their firsthand trip report from the Philippines.The conversation centres on their ten-night stay at Moalboal Eco Lodge, located a few hours southwest of Cebu. Tracy and Doug share what it was like staying in an eco-conscious accom
Japan Travel Planning: Ultimate Guide to Japanese Theme Parks
This week Tracy is joined by Japan travel specialist Helen Foster to share expert advice on visiting Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea, and Universal Studios Japan in Osaka.If you are planning your first Japan trip and considering adding a theme park, this episode covers what you really need to know before you go.Helen draws on nine trips to Japan to explain how each park differs, how ticketing sy
Exploring Switzerland by Train: Scenic Rail Journeys and Mountain Experiences
What makes Switzerland one of the most breathtaking countries in the world to explore by train?This week Tracy is joined by Switzerland travel expert Carolyn, founder of Holidays to Switzerland, to talk about the scenic rail journeys and mountain excursions that draw visitors back again and again.From iconic panoramic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express to shorter but equally spect
Exploring the Peruvian Amazon: Wildlife, Culture and Adventure
This week Tracy is joined by seasoned travel podcaster and traveller Chris Christensen, host of the Amateur Traveler podcast, to share his recent experience travelling through the Peruvian Amazon.Together, they explore why this vast and remote region is far more accessible than many travellers expect. Drawing on Chris’s small-group river expedition, the conversation offers a clear-eyed look at wha
Exploring Antarctica: What It’s Really Like on an HX Expeditions Cruise
Ever wondered what it actually takes to reach Antarctica and what it feels like when your boots hit the ice? We open up the journey, from long-haul hops to Ushuaia and life aboard a small HX Expeditions hybrid ship to the reality of the Drake Passage, then unpack how strict biosecurity and expert-led briefings make this fragile place accessible without losing what makes it special.From the first g
Travel Planning in 2026: Trends, Inspiration, and Travel Plans
Planning a great trip in 2026 shouldn’t feel like a second job. We’re kicking off the year with a clear roadmap for slower, more intentional travel—fewer destinations, deeper experiences, and practical steps that make every day on the road feel easier and more rewarding.Tracy shares what’s ahead on Podcast, from Antarctica reflections and the Peruvian Amazon to Morocco, the Philippines, and a deep
Around the World in 2025: Global Travel Planning’s Year in Review
This week Tracy and Doug reflect on a year filled with global adventures, practical travel advice, and behind-the-scenes stories from life on the road and behind the microphone.From Tracy reaching her seventh continent to shared reflections on travelling at pace, they look back on some of their favourite destinations of 2025, including Sri Lanka, Spain, Malaysia, Morocco, and more, along with stan
Top 10 Most Incredible Train Journeys Around the World for Travel Lovers
Epic landscapes deserve an equally epic way to travel. We’re diving into the romance and reality of rail: why trains make holidays start at the platform, how sleepers turn miles into memories, and which routes around the world are worth planning your next adventure around.We start with five reasons trains win: lower emissions and real sustainability gains, genuine comfort with room to move, dining
Stamped: Tracy Collins - From Curious Traveller to Global Travel Planner
This week, the mic is flipped. Tracy invites her friend and fellow podcaster Amanda Kendle (The Thoughtful Travel Podcast) to quiz her about the moments that shaped a lifetime of travel. From a grandmother’s pack of postcards that sparked obsession to the Gerald Durrell books that made strangers feel familiar, and a teenage long haul to London that dissolved fear at the airport gate.What unfolds i
Wildlife Wonders of Queensland: Where to See Kangaroos, Koalas, Whales + More
This week host Tracy Collins is joined by Queensland expert Melissa, who shares her insider knowledge of where and when to experience Australia’s most iconic wildlife.Together they uncover the magic of seeing animals in their natural habitats - from kangaroos hopping along the beach at Cape Hillsborough to whales breaching off Hervey Bay, turtles nesting on the Great Barrier Reef islands, and cass
Cold Weather Adventures, Packing Tips, and Winter Destinations Worth the Chill
From Christmas markets and snowy city breaks to planning for icy adventures like Antarctica, this Ladies Who Travel episode is all about embracing the magic of cold-weather travel.Join Tracy and guest co-host Melissa as they share personal stories from winter trips across Europe, the UK, and Australia, including cosy fireside escapes, a daughter’s first experience of snow, and the surprising joys
Stamped: Sinead - Trains, Travels, and Family Adventures Across 80 Countries
In this episode, host Tracy Collins is joined by lifelong traveller Sinead, who shares how a childhood love of caravan holidays and the travel stories of Michael Palin sparked a passion that led her to visit more than 80 countries.Despite not driving, fearing flying, and getting seasick, Sinead found her freedom through train travel and a deep curiosity about the world. She talks about her early a
Germany Travel Planning: Essential Tips for Exploring Germany’s Christmas Markets
Tracy is joined in this week's episode by travel expert Cate from My Germany Vacation to dive into the magical world of German Christmas markets. From iconic cities like Berlin, Cologne, and Munich to charming small-town markets in Rothenburg, Regensburg, and Esslingen, Cate shares her decades of experience to help you plan a festive getaway filled with culture, food, and unforgettable memori
Portugal Travel Tips for first time visitors with Julie Dawn Fox
Portugal captivates visitors with its dramatic coastlines, colourful cities, and relaxed pace of life that creates an immediate sense of welcome. We explore this diverse country with Julie Fox, a British writer who has lived in central Portugal since 2007 and helps travellers discover authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist trail.Portugal offers remarkable geographical diversity, from the
Bucket List Dreams: Where We've Been and Where We're Going
Every traveller carries a mental list of places they long to see, from childhood dreams to newly discovered wonders. These bucket lists reveal our deepest fascinations and evolve as our relationship with travel changes.Tracy and new permanent co-host Melissa share their own wishes, from African safaris to singing along while landing in Anchorage, Alaska. They reflect on how priorities shift over t
Stamped: Laura Dilts – Lifelong Adventures, Lasting Friendships, Shared Stories
What do decades of adventure, jumping off moving trains in rural Australia, and raising children adopted from Russia have in common? They are all part of Laura Dilts’s remarkable travel journey, which she shares in this captivating episode of Stamped: Global Travel Stories.Laura’s travel adventures began with family road trips exploring America’s national parks while her nuclear physicist father c
Europe in December: Route, Highlights and Winter Travel Tips
The enchanting atmosphere of European Christmas markets, overnight ferry adventures, and unique cultural experiences make winter travel across the continent a magical experience. We share practical insights from our three-week December journey through Berlin, Stockholm, Helsinki, Krakow, and Budapest to help you plan a smoother winter adventure.• Berlin's Christmas markets offer an authentic
The Ultimate Whitsundays Travel Guide: Best Islands, Whitehaven Beach + Insider Tips
The Whitsundays are a tropical paradise of 74 islands set in the heart of Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef. With crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white beaches, and world-class sailing, the region is one of Australia’s most iconic holiday destinations.This week, Melissa joins Tracy to share everything you need to know to plan your dream Whitsundays getaway. From the famous Whitehaven Beach
Australia Travel Planning - Brisbane to Perth Road Trip [Itinerary, Tips and Costs]
In this episode of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by her husband and regular co-host Doug Collins to share the story of their epic 10-day coast-to-coast road trip across Australia, from Brisbane to Perth. Together they talk through the logistics, highlights, surprises and practicalities of covering 4,500 kilometres (2,800 miles) through outback towns, iconic route
When Things Go Wrong, Keep Calm and Travel On
“The perfect trip rarely exists.” No matter how carefully you plan, travel throws curveballs. In this candid chat, the Ladies Who Travel unpack what happens when plans fall apart: a protest that blocks all roads, weather-cancelling bucket list moments, and train strikes that derail rail itineraries. You will hear different coping styles in action - Shelly’s calm in a crisis, Melissa’s quick “meltd
Stamped: Melissa Delaware - From Australian Beginnings to Global Adventures
What sparks a lifelong love of travel? For some, it starts in childhood. For Melissa, co-host of Ladies Who Travel, it was different. She did not travel overseas until she was an adult, and her journey from novice to explorer shows how travel can shape a life. In this month’s Stamped episode, Melissa shares the moments that defined her: wandering Sydney at 19 with a paper map, the pull of “The Bea
Epic Africa Adventure (Part 2): Namibia, Botswana + Zimbabwe
Tanya returns to share part two of her incredible African adventure, taking us through Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe with thrilling stories of desert landscapes, wildlife encounters, and natural wonders.• Flying from Cape Town to Walvis Bay to begin the Namibian adventure• Exploring German-influenced Swakopmund and taking a Sandwich Harbour tour where sand dunes meet the ocean• Joining an overla
Epic Africa Adventure (Part 1): South Africa
Tanya Munro shares her incredible multi-country African adventure, focusing on South Africa in this first episode of a two-part series. After 35 years on her bucket list, she finally travelled through Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, Cape Town and the Garden Route, experiencing wildlife encounters, cultural discoveries and stunning landscapes.• Best time to visit South Africa for wildlife viewi
Staying Healthy While Exploring: Travel Tips for Body and Mind
In episode 69 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by Shelly and Melissa for a Ladies Who Travel episode all about staying healthy on the road.Together, they dive into the realities of travel wellness, sharing practical tips, personal stories, and lessons learned from decades of global adventures. From long-haul flights and disrupted routines to managing mental health and bouncin
Stamped: Mandy Watson – One woman, one motto, and a world of adventure
What do you get when you mix an empty nest, unstoppable curiosity, and a cheeky life motto to “spend the kids’ inheritance”? In this episode of Stamped, Mandy Watson joins Tracy to share the bold, breathtaking, and often hilarious stories behind her lifelong love of travel.From being stranded in Hawaii with just $1 at 18, to summiting Kilimanjaro at 40, trekking the Inca Trail at 50, and planning
Exploring Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Ipoh: Our Complete Malaysia Itinerary
We take you on a journey through our 13-day adventure in Malaysia, exploring Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Ipoh by train, ferry and grab taxis while sharing our experiences, favourite foods, and practical tips.• Flying business class on Malaysian Airways and enjoying their famous satay chicken skewers• Staying at the Crowne Plaza in Kuala Lumpur, perfectly positioned five minutes from the Petronas Towe
Hawaii for First Time Visitors: Essential Tip, Island Choices and more from Marcie Cheung
Hawaii expert Marcie Cheung shares essential insights for planning your first trip to the islands, from choosing which island to visit to navigating transportation and experiencing authentic local culture. We unpack common misconceptions about Hawaii's geography, budget considerations, and practical tips for making the most of your Hawaiian vacation.• Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island are
Navigating Food Abroad: Tips, Mishaps & Healthy Hacks
The Ladies Who Travel dish on food adventures around the globe, sharing their triumphs, disasters and discoveries while exploring how we eat abroad.• Food tours offer cultural context, local knowledge and social connections for solo travellers• Different dietary approaches require varying levels of preparation when travelling overseas• Cultural misunderstandings can lead to surprising meals, like
Essential Tips for Your First Journey to India with Travel Expert Mariellen Ward
Mariellen Ward, an award-winning Canadian travel writer and co-founder of the tour company India for Beginners, shares her transformative 20-year journey through India and how she now helps first-time visitors experience this vibrant country with confidence.• Mariellen's first six-month Indian adventure arose from an inexplicable calling while battling grief and depression• The feeling of &qu
Stamped: Amanda Kendle – How Thoughtful Travel Shapes a Life of Meaningful Adventures
In this very first episode of the Stamped series on the Global Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins welcomes Amanda Kendle, creator of the Thoughtful Travel Podcast. Together, they dive into Amanda’s personal travel stories, exploring the sparks that set her on a lifelong journey of exploration, her most memorable destinations, and the transformative impact of travel.Amanda reminisces about
Ultimate Guide to Extended Travel: Tips from Our Nine-Month, 22-Country Trip
Tracy and Doug reflect on their incredible nine-month journey across 22 countries and four continents, sharing candid insights about their favourite destinations, practical tips, and lessons learned from long-term travel.• Morocco and Sri Lanka emerged as top destinations with their rich cultures and warm hospitality• Food tours provide the perfect introduction to new destinations, offering local
Lucerne Switzerland: Top 5 Experiences, Mountain Day Trips + Expert Tips
Lucerne captivates the imagination with its perfect blend of natural splendour and medieval charm. Nestled beside the crystalline waters of Lake Lucerne and surrounded by majestic Alpine peaks, this Swiss gem offers travellers an unforgettable experience that combines outdoor adventure with rich cultural heritage.Join us as Carolyn from Holidays to Switzerland shares her passionate expertise about
Lost in Translation: Hilarious English Mix Ups on Your Adventures Abroad
The Ladies Who Travel dive into hilarious and confusing ways English varies worldwide, demonstrating how even English speakers can struggle to understand each other when travelling between countries.• Words like "thongs," "chips," and "restroom" have completely different meanings in the UK, Australia, and America• Cultural communication beyond words includes queuing e
Sri Lanka Travel Planning - 3 Week Itinerary & Essential Travel Tips
In this week's episode of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug are joined by guest host Karen to share a detailed trip report from their first journey through Sri Lanka.Over the course of three weeks, they explored ancient temples, rode scenic trains through lush tea plantations, spotted wildlife on safari, and experienced the vibrant culture and cuisine of this unforgettable is
Ultimate First-Timer’s Guide to Tasmania
Tasmania captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, fresh air, and unique charm that sets it apart from mainland Australia. Travel writer Jennifer Johnston shares her deep knowledge and passion for this island state, explaining why it should be on everyone's Australian itinerary.• Tasmania offers cooler temperatures than mainland Australia, with fresh air that feels rejuvenating• T
15 Essential Europe Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Doug and Tracey share their top tips for first-time visitors to Europe, drawing from over 50 years of combined travel experience across the continent in various seasons, budgets, and travel styles.• Consider timing your visit carefully – avoid Southern Europe in July/August due to extreme heat and crowds• Choose fewer destinations and explore them more deeply, rather than rushing through multiple
Top Tips for Long Haul Flights
Dreading your next long-haul flight? In this month’s “Ladies Who Travel” episode of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by Melissa and Shelly, who collectively have logged thousands of hours in the air. Listen as they share their practical tips and hard-won wisdom to help make marathon journeys not just bearable—but genuinely enjoyable!The conversation kicks off by addressing a com
Kathmandu Uncovered: A Local's Guide to Nepal's Ancient Capital
In episode 55 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy sits down with Abigail from Aotearoa Adventures and her husband Isaac, sharing an insider’s guide to Kathmandu, Nepal. Isaac, who spent his childhood in Kathmandu, joins Abigail to showcase their favourite temples, markets, festivals, and authentic experiences in Nepal’s bustling capital. Together, they recount fond personal stories, offer
Top 10 Tips for UK and Europe Train Travel in 2025 and Beyond
We share our top 10 tips for planning train travel in the UK and Europe in 2025, drawing on our extensive experience travelling by rail throughout these regions. • Do your homework by researching routes, operators, and realistic itineraries• Consider the time of year, mobility needs, and whether the journey itself is part of your holiday• Book tickets in advance for the best prices, weighing flexi
Top 5 experiences in Perth Western Australia with Tess Moone
In episode 53 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy chats with guest Tess Moone, a Perth travel blogger and content creator. Tess shares her top five must-do experiences in Perth, Western Australia, including meeting quokkas on Rottnest Island, wine tasting in the Swan Valley, and enjoying West Coast sunsets on the beach. She also provides insights into lesser-known spots, dining recommenda
Travel Safe Travel Smart: Real Tips for Every Type of Traveller
In episode 52 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by co-hosts Melissa and Shelly to share their expertise on the crucial topic of travel safety. Together, they explore various aspects of staying safe while travelling, addressing specific concerns for solo travellers, family travellers, and those adventuring across the globe.From essential pre-travel research and understanding lo
Spain Travel Tips: Trip Report from Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona
We share the highlights of our recent trip to Madrid, Seville and Barcelona, including our favorite tours, how we got around, where we stayed and what we'd do differently next time.• Split our three weeks across Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona with a week in Portugal in between• Had to adjust our original plans to visit northern Spain due to train strikes• Chose apartments over hotels in Sevil
Nepal Travel Planning: A First-Timer's Guide to Exploring the Land of the Himalayas
In episode 50 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by travel expert Abigail Hannah from Aotearoa Adventures to explore the enchanting landscapes and rich culture of Nepal. Whether you're a first-time visitor or just considering a trip, this episode is packed with essential tips and insights to help you navigate your adventure in this beautiful country.From the best times to
Italy Travel Planning - Exploring the Amalfi Coast [Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors]
Planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast? In this week’s episode, Italy travel expert and returning guest Dianne Bortoletto joins me to share everything you need to know for an unforgettable visit to one of Italy’s most breathtaking regions.From iconic cliffside towns and sparkling sea views to delicious food and warm local hospitality, Dianne reveals what makes the Amalfi Coast so magical—and how to e
Morocco Trip Report - Intrepid Tour Review + Highlights and Travel Tips
Steam through Morocco's northern treasures as Tracy and Doug recount their 10-day adventure with Intrepid Travel, showcasing the country's vibrant medinas, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality.• Strategically arriving early in Marrakesh, then transferring to Casablanca maximised sightseeing opportunities• Travelling with Intrepid provided authentic experiences with local guides an
Pack Like a Pro: Essential Tips, Tricks & Travel Hacks
In this month's episode from the travelling trio - Tracy, Melissa and Shelly (aka a Brit, an Aussie and a Yank) we share their best packing strategies, essential items, and embarrassing packing fails to help you prepare for your next adventure. We debate cabin baggage versus checked luggage, reveal our must-have travel items, and share hard-earned lessons about what works – and what doesn’t.•
Discovering Western Australia: Essential Insights and Travel Tips with Tess Moone
In this week's episode of the podcast, Tracy welcomes back travel expert Tess Moone to uncover the wonders of Western Australia. Tess, a Perth local and seasoned travel blogger, shares invaluable insights for first-time visitors, from must-see destinations like Perth and Margaret River to essential travel tips on navigating distances, weather variations, and budgeting. Learn about the stunnin
Germany Travel Guide: Expert Tips for first time visitors
In this weeks episode of the podcast, Tracy chats with Germany travel planning expert Cate, co-founder of MyGermanyVacation.com. This episode is a comprehensive guide for first-time visitors to Germany, covering everything from itinerary planning and transportation tips to cultural etiquette and must-try foods. Cate shares invaluable insights on navigating the country’s vibrant cities, stunning la
Exploring the World with Your Dog: Expert Tips from Shandos Cleaver
In episode 44 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by Shandos Cleaver, an expert on dog-friendly travel and author of "Off the Leash in Australia." Together, they explore the world of travelling with dogs, focusing on Shandos' own experiences with her miniature dachshund, Schnitzel, across 36 countries. Offering practical tips and anecdotes, the episode covers ever
Finding Your Ideal Accommodation: Tips, Tricks, and Travel Tales
This episode delves into the essential topic of choosing the right accommodation for travel, exploring personal preferences and valuable tips for all types of travellers. We share personal stories and insights about what makes an accommodation memorable while navigating the challenges of hotel booking and location considerations. • Discussing recent travel experiences • Addressing how age influenc
Discover Italy: Essential tips for first-time visitors with Dianne Bortoletto
In this week's Global Travel Planning Podcast episode, Tracy chats with guest Diane Bortoletto, a travel expert and co-host of the And Away We Go f1 podcast. Diane offers invaluable advice for first-time visitors to Italy, covering essential topics such as cultural etiquette, budgeting strategies, and transport tips. The episode highlights must-try Italian dishes, emphasising the importance o
Exploring Peru: Hidden Treasures, Travel Tips, and Inspiring Stories with Ariana Svenson
Join us for an exciting journey through Peru featuring Ariana, an Australian traveller who traded her political career for the captivating trails of the Andes. Get ready to be inspired by her tales of spontaneous adventure as Ariana recounts her transition to life in Cusco and shares her deep connection to Peru's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Discover practical tips from her trave
Dubai Travel Guide: Expert Tips for First-Time Visitors
In episode 40 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy invites Keri from Dubai Travel Planner to explore the dazzling city of Dubai. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for first-time visitors, covering everything from the city's iconic skyscrapers and pristine beaches to its vibrant souks and cultural gems. Keri shares the best times to visit, plus practical tips for navigating
Planning Your Dream Trip in 2025: Expert Tips and Strategies
Welcome to episode 39 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast! Planning your dream trip in 2025 doesn't have to be overwhelming. In this episode, host Tracy Collins is joined by seasoned travellers Melissa Kiely and Shelly Marie, who bring insights from the UK, Australia, and the US. Together, they share key steps to transform your travel dreams into reality. From selecting the perfect destinat
Top Tips and Insights for First-Time Travellers to Tokyo Japan
In episode 38 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins welcomes guest Helen Foster to discuss essential tips for first-time visitors to Tokyo, Japan. Helen shares her journey from initially disliking Tokyo to falling in love with its unique blend of modernity and tradition.The episode offers valuable advice on navigating the city, planning itineraries, and cultural etiquette. Trac
France Travel Planning - Essential travel tips for first time visitors
Join host Tracy Collins in episode 37 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast as she chats with Jo Karnaghan from France Travel Planning. Jo shares her top tips for first-time visitors to France, offering advice to help you plan an unforgettable journey. Discover tips on crafting the perfect itinerary, navigating the country, and avoiding common travel mistakes. Jo also shares budget-friendly advice
Top 10 Travel Tips for 2025 [ Expert Tips To Maximise Your Travel Experience]
Welcome to the first episode of 2025 on the Global Travel Planning Podcast! This week host Tracy Collins is joined by travel experts Melissa Kiely and Shelly Marie to share their top 10 travel tips for the year ahead.Whether you're a seasoned traveller or embarking on your first adventure, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you navigate your journeys with ease. From travel i
2024 Year in Review [+ Announcing Exciting Plans for 2025]
In episode 35 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins reflects on an incredible year of travel adventures and looks forward to the exciting plans for 2025. Join us as we revisit the highlights of 2024, from road trips in Pennsylvania with Rob Bruns to exploring the wineries of Margaret River in Western Australia with Kerry Heaney. Tracy shares her own travel stories, including a spont
Exploring Pennsylvania: A Journey Through History, Chocolate, and Amish Country
In episode 34 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins welcomes guest Rob Bruns, who shares his recent Pennsylvania road trip adventure. Known for his popular episodes on the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Rob takes us on a journey through the Keystone State, offering insights and stories from his travels.Starting in Harrisburg, Rob discusses using the state capital as a strategic hu
3 Days in Los Angeles: Itinerary & Travel Tips
In episode 33 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug recount their whirlwind adventure in Los Angeles. Discover how a cancelled flight turned their planned three-and-a-half-day itinerary into a two-and-a-half-day sprint filled with iconic attractions and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're considering a stopover en route to Europe or simply looking for a short getaway in
Brisbane Day Trips: Islands, Wildlife, and Hidden Gems
In episode 32 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by guest Melissa Kiely to discuss the best day trips from Brisbane. Melissa, from the Queensland Travel Guide and Brisbane Travel Guide, shares her top picks for day trips, ranging from island adventures to animal encounters and everything in between. If you're looking to explore the Brisbane area, this episode is packed wit
All Around Oz with Annette Jones
In episode 31 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins welcomes Annette Jones from the travel blog "All Around Oz". As a full-time traveller who has explored Australia and other destinations extensively, Annette shares her journey to becoming a seasoned traveller across Australia, with a lifestyle many dream of. Annette discusses the nuances of planning a lap around Australia
Secrets of Maine: Local Experiences and Natural Wonders with Naomi Figueroa
In episode 30 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy dives into the beautiful state of Maine in the United States with special guest Naomi Figueroa. Naomi takes us on a journey through Maine's stunning landscapes, charming towns, and must-see attractions. They cover a myriad of topics, including what to eat, Naomi's favourite experiences, and a detailed description of the different
From England to the Philippines: The Journey Behind Moalboal Ecolodge with Angie Briggs
Join host Tracy Collins as she chats with Angie Briggs, co-owner of the Moalboal Ecolodge in the Philippines. Angie shares the incredible journey that brought her and her husband Simon from England to the Philippines and the inspiration behind founding their eco-friendly lodge. Dive into the challenges and rewards of creating and running an ecolodge, and gain insights into the importance of sustai
Gap Years & Bucket Lists: Turning Dreams into Adventures with Josie Kelsh
In episode 28 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy welcomes travel enthusiast, writer, and blogger Josie Kelsh of Josie Wanders. If you've ever dreamed of taking an adult gap year or creating a bucket list that turns dreams into reality, this conversation is for you.Josie shares the inspiring story of how she and her husband turned their gap year idea into a 13-month adventure. From i
