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Global Travel Planning

Tracy Collins

Travel planning from people who've actually been there. Real trips, real experience, real advice.


The Global Travel Planning Podcast is hosted by Tracy Collins, an independent traveller who has explored more than 60 countries over 40 years. Each episode brings you first-hand trip reports, destination planning guides, and practical advice from travellers who have done it themselves.


With 100 episodes and counting, the show covers destinations across Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and Australia. Whether you are planning your first international trip or adding a new destination to a well-worn passport, you will find honest, experienced advice here.


New episodes every fortnight. Find show notes, links and travel guides at globaltravelplanning.com.

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  • 23 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 39 min
  • English

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  • #107
    October 21 · 49 min

    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 Falkland Islander - How Lupin Tours began, and when the cruise season gets busy - Getting there by cruise ship, or flying in from the UK or Chile - How to spend one day in port, from Ross Road to the Historic Dockyard Museum - Why Volunteer Point king penguin trips can book up a year or more ahead - Getting around by taxi, hire car or tour, and why most penguin sites are on private land - What to pack for four seasons in one day - Wildlife beyond penguins, including elephant seals and the flightless steamer duck - Where to eat and drink in Stanley, from local gin to Falklands squid - Roxy's postcards from the Falklands, now sent to more than 40 countries Links to everything we talked about, including Lupin Tours, Roxy's social channels, and where to order a postcard, are in this week's show notes - Episode 107. If you're planning a trip of your own, start with our free Global Trip Planner. We'd love to hear from you, so leave us a message on the episode page or a review, and please share this episode with a fellow travel lover. Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #106
    October 7 · 37 min

    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-booked airport transfer is worth it when you arrive tired or unwell - Where we stayed in Hanoi, and what the Old Quarter is like day to day - The army jeep tour, Train Street and the water puppet show - Hanoi food tour tips, including how to order without coriander - Ha Long Bay: what we would do differently next time - Inside an international hospital in Hanoi, and how the insurance claim worked - The Laman Express sleeper train in a private two-berth cabin, and why to book early - Da Nang as a base city, and why we found it such good value - Hoi An honestly: what we loved, what we missed and what we would do differently - Doug's day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta - Cooking with a Vietnamese family through LikeLocal, and what it showed us about daily life If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, or you know someone who is, please share this episode with them. We would love to hear which stop you are most looking forward to, so do leave us a message through SpeakPipe, and if you enjoy the show, a review really helps. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 106 Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #105
    September 23 · 34 min

    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 Johannesburg What the Big Five Are and How Pilanesberg Compares with Kruger Staying at Kwa Maritane Lodge: Chalets, Spa, Bar and Boma Dinner Elephants at the Waterhole and Lions Roaring at Night Keeping Doors Shut and Dealing with Cheeky Monkeys The Hide, the Tunnel and the Live Camera on Your TV What a Private Guide Adds: Tracking, Local Knowledge and Comfort Why a Full Day in the Park Pays Off Lions on a Kill, an Up-Close Leopard and a Black Rhino Guided Drives vs Self-Driving Packing for Winter Mornings in Open and Enclosed Vehicles Pairing Cape Town with a Game Drive Show notes, photos, and links are at globaltravelplanning.com/episode105. If you'd like to connect with Heinrich, send us a message via SpeakPipe. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with a fellow travel lover planning a trip to South Africa. Episodes 102 and 103 cover our time in Cape Town. Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #104
    September 9 · 32 min

    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 avoids Why Europe's countryside and small towns make travel feel more connected Simple ways to add a short walk to a city-based itinerary Using local tourism boards and information centres to find easy routes AllTrails and helpful keywords such as family walks and discovery walks Soft adventure spots that surprise people, from England's footpaths to accessible Dolomites trails What to carry for gentle walks, including water, rain jacket, phone, map photo and charger How small group tours reduce planning stress and add local guiding, meals and logistics Lynne's Hadrian's Wall walking tour coming in 2027 If you're planning a trip to Europe and have a question, leave us a voice message through SpeakPipe. And if you know someone who would love a gentler kind of adventure, please share this episode with them. Show notes - Episode 104 Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #103
    August 26 · 34 min

    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: - Why we chose winter for Cape Town and what the weather is really like - How to time Table Mountain to avoid closures and queues - Where we stayed near the V&A Waterfront and why an apartment works for longer trips - Getting around with Uber, including pick-up points and basic safety checks - Tipping culture, when you still need cash and how restaurant tipping works - Everyday surprises like car guards, full service petrol stations and supermarket bag packers - Simple safety habits for phones, jewellery and walking after dark - What to pack for winter, including layers, comfortable shoes and spare suitcase space - What we ate and loved, from bobotie to market samosas to malva pudding - Where to shop for colourful souvenirs and how to haggle politely - Winter extras like whale season and planning for early sunsets - eSIMs, Wi-Fi and why we keep a VPN on while travelling We would love to hear about your own Cape Town plans, so leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe Show notes - globaltravelplanning.com/episode-103 If you enjoy the show, a rating or review helps other travellers find us, and do share this episode with anyone planning a trip to South Africa. Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #102
    August 12 · 38 min

    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 how to stay flexible. Kirstenbosch saved us a day when the mountain was blocked, and Bo-Kaap turned out to be Doug's favourite thing we did. In this episode: Choosing a three week base in Green Point while we work and explore Using the V&A Waterfront as a hub for food, views and tour pick ups Getting Table Mountain right by watching cloud and wind, and going the moment it is clear Swapping plans to Kirstenbosch for a full garden day, baboons included Taking the Robben Island tour for the history, and preparing for seasickness Doing Bo-Kaap properly with a guided walk plus a Cape Malay cooking class Cape Point and Boulders Beach for penguins, wildlife and sunset views Weighing up car hire versus Uber and tours for getting around A Winelands tasting day across Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek Finishing with afternoon tea at the Mount Nelson Remember, if you enjoyed the show, please consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast app because your feedback helps us reach more travel enthusiasts just like you. Show notes - globaltravelplanning.com/episode-102 Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #101
    July 29 · 24 min

    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 culture • quick guide to Bordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne differences • how Elisa matches a region to your preferred styles and grape varieties • best wine region day trip from Paris with Champagne and Épernay ideas • lesser-known regions to add authenticity with Jurançon and Madiran • crowd-free alternatives near Bordeaux with Bergerac and Monbazillac • why you should book winery visits in advance and how far ahead • tasting basics for beginners and why English is usually available • tasting costs from free to premium and when buying is expected • getting around safely with tours, private drivers and Loire à Vélo cycling • how to bring bottles home with shipping and suitcase packing tips • when to visit, what harvest season is really like and festival planning • common planning mistakes with research, logistics and wine style expectations ⭐️ Guest - Elisa from France Bucket List - Wine Travel Planning 📝 Full links and photos are in the show notes at globaltravelplanning.com/episode-101 If you know someone who is planning a trip to France or who simply loves a good glass of wine, do share this episode with them. And if you enjoy the podcast, a review really does help other travellers find us. Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #100
    July 15 · 43 min

    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 family from Toronto to the Loire Valley, through London and Brighton, and on to Málaga for a first birthday in Spain. It is an honest, practical look at what long-term family travel really looks like day to day. In this episode: Riana's travel background and why long-term travel keeps calling her back Deciding to travel during parental leave, older rescue dog included Building a base-style route across Toronto, the Loire Valley, London, Brighton and Málaga Working around a last-minute French visa rejection and the Schengen 90 day limit The packing and logistics of nine months with a baby and a dog How slow travel routines make a new place feel like home quickly Finding baby-friendly and dog-friendly Airbnbs, and the hard lesson about stairs Dividing the jobs on travel days to keep the stress down What went wrong with the road trip and the electric hire car Budget tips that genuinely help, including 28 day discounts and cooking at home Letting go of the pressure to see everything and leaning into local life What is next for the family, and where to follow Riana online ⭐️ Guest - Riana from teaspoonofadventure.com 📝 Full links and photos are in the show notes at globaltravelplanning.com/episode-100 If you enjoyed this milestone episode, we would love a quick review on your favourite podcast app, and you can leave us a voice message on SpeakPipe. Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #99
    July 1 · 42 min

    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 advance eSIMs and VPNs, sorted before you leave home The apps we download before we fly Travel insurance and why it matters more than you think Visas and entry requirements without the overpriced sites Wise cards, cash and your currency strategy Cultural etiquette and a few useful words Staying scam aware and choosing the right bag Checking the weather and packing in layers What to book in advance, and what to leave free If you enjoy the episode, please share it with anyone planning a trip abroad and leave us a review on your favourite podcast app. Grab our free Global Trip Planner at globaltravelplanning.com/tripplanner to start planning your own. Full links and show notes at globaltravelplanning.com/episode-99. Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #98
    June 17 · 36 min

    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 sharing meaningful places made it extraordinary Travel as time travel, and what happens when your destination includes your own history Where AI travel planning falls short and what human expertise actually gives you The £500 design meeting story and why expert input pays for itself What Cate offers for Germany travel and what Tracy and Doug offer for UK travel: custom itineraries, consults, video reviews and more Planning a trip to the UK? Visit uktravelplanning.com for resources, podcast episodes, and to book a consult with Tracy and Doug. Planning a trip to Germany? Visit mygermanyvacation.com to explore Cate and Aaron's services. Full links and show notes at globaltravelplanning.com/episode-98. Get in touch via the Speakpipe link in the show notes, and if you enjoyed the episode, a review on your favourite podcast app helps more travellers find the show. Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #97
    June 3 · 37 min

    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 the Aegean coast and the ruins of Ephesus, overnight to Konya, across to Cappadocia, up to Kayseri, into Ankara, and back to Istanbul. Mostly by train, on a real budget, with honest advice on what it actually costs. ✅ Building a Türkiye itinerary around each person's must-sees ✅ Booking Turkish rail through TCDD, sleeper availability, and mid-route delays ✅ What train travel is actually like, from sleepers to high-speed first class ✅ Visiting Ephesus and why the scale and preservation stand out ✅ Hiking in Cappadocia, finding cave churches, and watching balloons at sunrise for free ✅ A low-cost mosaic lamp workshop that turned out to be a trip highlight ✅ Eating well for less and saving money on flights with a reverse search strategy ✅ Packing light, carrying lira, using Revolut or Wise, and choosing an eSIM If this episode has got you thinking about your own adventure, our free workbook, Plan Your Dream Trip with Ease, is a brilliant place to start. If you enjoyed the show, leaving a review on your favourite podcast app helps more travel lovers find us. Guest - Sinead Camplin from Map Made Memories and York Travel Expert Show notes - Episode 97 Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #96
    May 20 · 52 min

    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 cover the full route from the Midlands up through Glencoe to Ullapool, what the CalMac ferry crossing to Stornoway is actually like, and why you absolutely book ferries before anything else. We also get into the realities of driving on single-track roads with passing places, livestock on the road, Sunday closures, and Scottish Gaelic road signs. Then it's the good stuff: the beaches of Lewis and Harris that genuinely stop you in your tracks, the Callanish Standing Stones, the blackhouses at Carloway, local Harris Tweed, and a couple of restaurants and places to stay that are worth going out of your way for. We finish with an honest conversation about Skye, what it's like now, whether it's still worth it, and how it compares to the quieter islands. Part 2 on Mull and Iona is coming soon. Subscribe so you don't miss it. Show notes - Episode 96 Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #95
    May 6 · 30 min

    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 me back, including Morocco, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa and Scotland, plus the destinations that still tug at my heart when I think about the memories and the people I met. You’ll hear why I’m not interested in ticking off countries, how returning for a deeper experience changes your itinerary, and why Morocco in particular completely exceeded my expectations, from the souks to the Sahara to the Atlas Mountains. We also get into the planning side: what I always do when I arrive (food tours are my favourite first move), the biggest mistake travellers make when building an itinerary, and how I break trip planning into clear steps so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. I also share how I balance booking the essentials with leaving room for spontaneity, plus five travel tips I live by, including shoulder season travel, travel insurance, staying central, booking key experiences early, and learning a few words of the local language. If you've got a trip on the horizon, download our free trip planning workbook - it'll help you turn all of this into a plan you can actually use. And if you enjoyed this episode, sharing it with a fellow traveller is the best way to help more people find the show. Show notes - Episode 95 Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #94
    April 22 · 27 min

    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 choosing routes and booking seat reservations to managing luggage, finding accommodation near stations, and eating well across different countries. She also shares some deeply meaningful stops along the way, including the Australian war memorials in Normandy, Auschwitz-Birkenau, and the Eagle's Nest near Salzburg. Show notes - Episode 94 Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #93
    April 8 · 57 min

    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 Tips When 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 recent independent adventure across China with her long-time travel partner Joe. Together, Tracy and Lucy unpack what it is really like on the ground, from high-speed rail journeys and cashless payments to language barriers, food discoveries, and cultural surprises. Lucy also reflects on how travelling as a pair shaped their experience, from planning logistics to navigating busy stations and unfamiliar technology. Moving beyond the “big three” cities, Lucy and Joe explored destinations such as Pingyao and Yangzhou, offering honest insight into what first-time visitors truly need to know before they go. If China feels exciting but intimidating, this episode will give you practical tools and the confidence to plan your own independent adventure. In this episode you’ll learn: How to realistically plan long-distance travel across China What booking high-speed trains is really like (and why Trip.com helps) How China’s passport-linked, paperless ticketing works Why nearly everything is cashless - and how to set up Alipay or WeChat before arrival Essential apps including Amap, Didi, translation tools, and VPN-enabled eSIMs How to navigate menus without English Why booking flexible hotels matters What to expect from public toilets and cultural etiquette How to structure an itinerary beyond Beijing and Shanghai Guest - Lucy England Show notes - Episode 93 🎧 Listen to next Episode #22 – A Journey to Central China: Unique Gastronomy, Stunning Landscapes, and Cultural Delights Episode #15 – Insider’s Guide for First-Time Visitors to Singapore Episode #14 – Visiting Japan: Top Tips for First-Time Travellers Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #92
    March 25 · 48 min

    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 accommodation and why this peaceful corner of the Philippines made such a strong impression on them during their first visit to the country. Along the way they discuss the warmth and friendliness of the Filipino people, local culture and cuisine, and what daily life was like during their stay in Moalboal. From snorkelling experiences to relaxed eco lodge living, the episode offers an honest look at travelling in this part of the Philippines. They also talk about the practical side of visiting the country, including arriving in Cebu, getting around, money and connectivity, and some of the cultural surprises they encountered, including the local love of karaoke and the visible commitment to animal welfare in many communities. If you are curious about the Philippines or interested in sustainable travel experiences, this trip report offers an authentic glimpse into what it is really like to stay in an eco lodge and explore this beautiful part of the world. Show notes - Episode 92 🎧 Listen to next Episode #29– From England to the Philippines: The Journey Behind Moalboal Ecolodge with Angie Briggs Moalboal Eco Lodge 🌴 Book a stay at Moalboal Ecolodge 🌴 Instagram – MoalBaol Ecolodge Dog Sanctuary 🐕 Instagram – Moalboal Animal Welfare Spay & Neuter Charity 🐶 Support the charity Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #91
    March 11 · 43 min

    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 systems work, what catches first-time visitors out, and whether Japan’s theme parks are worth it if you are not a huge “theme park person”. In this episode, you’ll learn: • The differences between Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea, and Universal Studios Japan • How far in advance you need to book tickets and hotels • How Disney Premier Access and Universal Express Pass work • Common planning mistakes to avoid • Whether you need a full day for a theme park • What to expect during busy seasons like Golden Week • Cultural differences inside Japanese theme parks If you want to avoid long queues, understand the booking systems, and plan a stress-free visit, this episode will help you do exactly that. ⭐️ Guest - Helen Foster (Japlanease) 📝 Show Notes - Episode 91 🎧 Listen to next Episode #38 – Top Tips and Insights for First-Time Travellers to Tokyo Japan Episode #13 – Discovering Japan: A 21 Day Itinerary Episode #14 – Visiting Japan: Top Tips for First-Time Travellers Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #90
    February 25 · 30 min

    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 spectacular routes such as the Lucerne–Interlaken Express, this episode dives into how Switzerland’s rail network turns travel days into unforgettable experiences. Carolyn shares her favourite train journeys, tips for planning around start and end points, and why flexibility is key when dealing with Alpine weather. They also discuss common mistakes travellers make, including overpacking and forgetting to book seat reservations on panoramic trains, plus practical advice on using the Swiss Travel Pass and regional rail passes to help manage costs in one of Europe’s most expensive destinations. You’ll also hear how to choose the right mountain excursions, whether you prefer cogwheel railways, funiculars or cable cars, and why allowing time in each base makes all the difference to your experience. If Switzerland is on your list, this episode will help you plan smarter, travel lighter, and be prepared to be amazed at every turn. Guest - Carolyn of Holidays to Switzerland Show notes - Episode 90 🎧 Listen to next Episode #6 - An introduction to Switzerland Episode #61 - Lucerne Deep Dive Episode #85 – Top 10 Most Incredible Train Journeys Around the World Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #89
    February 11 · 47 min

    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 what it’s really like to travel the Amazon, from river life and wildlife encounters to village visits and the realities of logistics, comfort, and daily routines. Chris explains how the Peruvian Amazon differs from the coastal and Andean parts of Peru many travellers are familiar with, what surprised him most about the trip, and why the experience felt adventurous without being as difficult or intimidating as expected. • Why much of Peru lies in the Amazon basin • How to reach the Peruvian Amazon via Lima, Iquitos, and the river port • What it’s like spending a week on a small Amazon river boat • How seasonal water levels shape routes, fishing, and daily life • Blackwater lakes, piranha fishing, and safe swimming • Wildlife encounters including birds, sloths, monkeys, and pink dolphins • What village visits and local life along the river are really like • Food on board and sharing a traditional village meal • Mobility needs, skiffs, stairs, and uneven terrain • What to pack for heat, insects, and wildlife viewing • Why the Amazon is more accessible than many travellers expect You’ll find links to Chris’s detailed article about the Peruvian Amazon and his Amateur Traveler podcast in the show notes globaltravelplanning.com/episode-89 ⭐️ Guest - Chris Christensen from Amateur Traveler Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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  • #88
    January 28 · 51 min

    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 glide through the Lemaire Channel to five unforgettable landings, we share practical detail on zodiacs, group rotations, and why “penguin highways” must be respected. Expect honest gear talk, thermals, waterproof trousers and sunblock over bulky ski wear, plus notes on seasickness, balcony cabins, and how the science centre turns downtime into discovery. We also get real about cost, value, and choosing a responsible operator that prioritises smaller groups and environmental impact. Guest travellers Karen and David add vivid moments, whales surfacing beside a silent ship, the shock of a polar plunge, and stepping onto the mainland at an Argentine base. We compare Antarctica with the Falkland Islands, weigh when to go, and highlight wildlife spotted from deck. If you’re planning your first polar cruise or simply curious about the White Continent, this is a grounded guide to going prepared and coming home with more than photos. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 88 🎧 Listen to next Episode #86 - Around the World in 2025: Global Travel Planning’s Year in Review Episode #81 - Stamped: Sinead: Trains, Travels, and Family Adventures Across 80 Countries Episode #41 – Tips for first time visitors to Peru with Ariana Svenson Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here. Support the show 🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips. 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe ☕ Enjoying the show? Support us from $3 a month and get a shoutout on air: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2252461/support 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website | Instagram | YouTube 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. ...

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