This week is all about islands, as we take you to a Cambodian conservation-based private island resort and to the island nation of the Maldives.

First up, Kirstie takes us to the stunning island resort of Song Saa in Cambodia’s Koh Rong archipelago. Bought by Australian Melita Koulmandas for US$15,000, she has transformed it from knee-deep in rubbish to a luxury retreat with Cambodia’s first protected marine park. Hear from the island’s marine biologist, Anna Sabrina Petry about how it not only supports the ongoing conservation efforts but continues to enrich the area. Learn more about Song Saa at www.songsaa-privateisland.com.

Next, Belle chats about her most recent visit to the Maldives - does it live up to the hype? This time, she stayed at two resorts, Niyama Private Islands in the Dhaalu atoll south of the capital, Male, and Avani + Fares in the Baa atoll, famed for its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. We're talking about the food, the different types of resorts, their sustainability and, of course, whale sharks. 

See niyama.com and avanihotels.com/en/fares-maldives 

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Many people dream of being a digital nomad. Is 2026 your year to do it?

This week, we’re giving you an insight into what life is really like living on the road, starting with authors, digital creators and husbands Brent Hartinger and Michael Jensen, who have lived in more than 30 countries and travelled to more than 60. 

The long-time digital nomads originally from the United States share their insights into what it’s like living a nomadic life, with top tips on how you can do it too. Follow them at: https://www.brentandmichaelaregoingplaces.com/

Then we chat to award-winning freelance food, travel and lifestyle journalist Natascha Mirosch, who swapped the sunny shores of Brisbane to move temporarily to a tiny village south of Rome where she worked remotely. We talk through why she did it, what there is to see and do in this stunning region of Italy and how you could do it too.

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Four kilometres from Australia, Papua New Guinea is our closest, and also our least explored neighbour. As PNG celebrates the 50th anniversary of independence from Australia, Australian musician and composer David Bridie talks about his connection with PNG, which spans four decades. 

A founding member of Not Drowning, Waving, David first visited PNG in 1986; he is now an initiated Tolai man, returning more than 40 times, for work and to visit friends who've become family in Rabaul, Bougainville and Manus Island, as documented in the film Abebe; see davidbridie.com 

Come for the fishing, diving and birdwatching, stay for the incredible, varied cultures, some only first touched by contact with the outside world in our lifetimes. 

Also, the places you need to be going in 2026, thanks to trendsetters Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel in 2026 and for our tip this week,  how to stop  hackers targeting you on holiday, thanks to Saily SIM cards. See lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel and saily.com 

Finally, Kirstie checks into the Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins, and we're both hoovering up Hong Kong classics at Atlas Dining in South Yarra. See https://ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/ and atlasdining.com.au

David's recommendations include:
Baia Sportfishing baiafishingpng.com
Walindi dive resort, Kimba walindiresort.com
Kumal Lodge (birdwatching) facebook.com/kumullodge989/ 

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The incoming Lunar New Year brings in the Year of the Wood Dragon – a year of opportunity and renewal, career work and success. Australian-Chinese artist Chris Chun talks us through the origins of the Chinese zodiac and how best to celebrate the Lunar New Year. 

Take Chris’ recommendation and visit Melbourne’s Chinatown to see the Lunar New Year parade, followed by yum cha, chinatownmelbourne.com.au then pop into the Museum of Chinese Australian History to say "Kung hei fat choi!" to the largest dragon in the world, the Millennial Dragon, whose head weighs around 200kg. Chris’s family’s favourite Chinese restaurant in Melbourne is the long-running Rock Kung has been around for decades. Visit them at 101 Kingsway, Glen Waverley. 

Also, Booking.com releases its Top 10 Most Welcoming Places in Australia, and the Sunshine Coast and Victoria are shining bright - but who do you think got the top gong? For more Sunny Coast goodness, and to put its claim as Australia's craft beer capital to the test, see visitsunshinecoast.com

And finally, let's save money on travel insurance! Financial comparison site Mozo shows you how, see mozo.com.au --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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Should you wash elephants in Thailand? Adventure World's head Neil Rodgers talks about travelling ethically to ensure travel remains possible for our kids, including why you should avoid local tour operators who don’t protect wildlife, adventureworld.com.au

Belle's just back from undertaking one of the great hikes in northern Victoria - the crossing between Falls Creek and Hotham, with Alpine Nature Experiences and Victoria's High Country.

We also tell you how much we love the Australian Open and how to hack your annual leave so you can have longer holidays without sacrificing the pay packet, thanks to virginaustralia.com  

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Antarctica and the Arctic are two of the last frontiers on the planet, and the focus of this week’s feature with veteran journalist Andrew Conway. He puts the case for travel to these two incredibly fragile, vulnerable places, and how we travellers can be involved in their conservation.

We’re also talking the world's most powerful passports, according to the annual Henley Passport Index, based on data from the International Air Transport Association which shows which are the most powerful passports to hold – the more powerful, the more visa-free travel you can enjoy. For the full list, visit henleyglobal.com/passport-index/ranking

And our tip this week is the safest places to travel, according to US multinational Berkshire Hathaway travel protection. Where do you reckon is the safest country? See bhtp.com/blog/safest-places-to-travel/--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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We’re still in the thick of Australian summer holidays, so it’s time for the great Victorian playground play-off! 

We ask the hard questions – who did it better these summer holidays, Mornington Peninsula (Belle) or Phillip Island (Kirstie)?

Also this episode, we cover off the top tourism spots that Australians love to hate… and the hard-loved Gold Coast gets repeat mentions, thanks to research by internationaldriversassociation.com 

But back to Victoria, we’ve both been holidaying in the top Australian holiday hotspots of the Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island for decades. So when we tell you what our favourite beach is, know that we’ve swam/walked/sunbathed on all the others, as well. 

We also share the best places for coffee, best walks (long and short, steep and flat), our favourite viewpoints and wildlife experiences. And, after years and years of investigative journalism/eating till we burst, you’ll get our favourite eats from our respective holiday heartlands. 

Best beach: MP, Safety Beach. PI, Smiths Beach.

Best walk: MP, Bushrangers Bay. PI, Cape Woolamai Walk or George Bass Coastal walk.

Best adventure: MP, Peninsula Hot Springs. PI, Phillip Island Helicopters.

Best coffee: MP, Commonfolk (Mornington) or Little Rebel (Dromana). PI  G’day Tiger (Cowes).

Best wildlife experience: MP, Moonlit Sanctuary or Polperro Dolphin Swims. PI. Cape Woolamai Walk (wallabies), Nobbies (for penguins) and the Koala Conservation Reserve. 

Best food & wine: MP, Polperro picnics, DOC vs 400 Gradi pizza in Mornington, fish & chips on any beach. PI . Pino's Trattoria in Cowes, Purple Hen Winery (don't go past the pinot noir).

See morningtonpeninsulatourism.org, visitphillipisland.com.au--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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This week, we bring you two of the biggest names to join us here at The World Awaits – travel commentator Bruce Poon Tip and design innovator Bill Bensley.

Social entrepreneur, New York Times best-selling author andowner of adventure travel company G Adventure Bruce Poon Tip talks to Kirstie from Toronto about the importance of community tourism, and what you can do as a traveller to genuinely make change to communities in need.  Bruce also reveals the countries that are leading the way in travel for change, gadventures.com 

Watch Bruce’s moving video here, which is sure to change your perception of travel: thelasttouristfilm.com 

And Bill Bensley is world renowned for his unique, inspiring and award-winning hotel designs and eye-catching architecture, bringing to life more than 200 resorts, hotels and palaces in over 30 countries. He is also a concerned conservationist and passionate philanthropist, and a pioneer in helping communities, and preserving conservation and wildlife. He tells Kirstie why he’s so passionate about philanthropy and his next big project, bensley.com--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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We love Spain, and our two guests love it even more! This week's episode brings two of our favourite interviewees in to talk about their big love of all things Spanish. 

Meet Ben Groundwater - travel journalist occasional tour guide and lover of San Sebastian's food scene. He talks to Belle about how to eat like a Spaniard, breakfast beers and the best restaurant in this foodie heaven, bengroundwater.com

Less eating, more walking, Wandering to World founder Glenyce Johnson tells Kirstie about walking the long-distance pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago, which she's done an incredible 35 times, instagram.com/wanderingtheworldwithus/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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Vomiting comedians, being shot at in Honduras and running through a game reserve. We share some of the best responses we've received from our guests about their most bizarre travel moments. 

Thanks to @brenthillfiji @lisapagotto_ and @sheryltakayama for sharing stories of their escapades on the road.

And hold the shame! Kirstie and I share our own fashion travel faux pas – all born from hard experiences. On the cruise ship. On the ski slopes. On the Fijian beaches and in the wilderness… --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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Welcome to our Summer Series! We're bringing you some of our favourite interviews, kicking off with the Italian episode, featuring Rome and Florence.

First up, the cuisine of Rome is carbonara, artichokes and lamb, says Italian-Australian author and journalist Maria Pasquale, who writes about Roman cuisine in her book, The Eternal City.

“But if I had to describe Rome in one word, it would be artichoke,” she says. Maria also talks about the Awesome Foursome of Roman pastas including the wild child, and perhaps the oldest of them all, alla gricia and she shares the best place to eat gelato in her town! And you can find Maria at instagram.com/heartrome or visit maria-pasquale.com/

For our second interview, we're off to Florence, and we’re talking to another author, Nardia Plumridge. She chats to us from Italy, where she’s working on the next run of her popular book, Lost in Florence. Nardia shares a few places that fly under the radar, and how Florence will steal your heart, ⁠lostinflorence.it; https://nardiaplumridge.com--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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Ever think about quitting your corporate job and following a life-long dream? Laura Waters did, and she’s now an award-winning author, travel writer and speaker. Laura talks about hiking the length of New Zealand in a life-changing experience that led to her to write her travel memoir, Bewildered, see soultrekkers.com.au 

Belle teams up with and entertainment and travel writer Alaisdair Leith to share their best travel gifts for Christmas… shouting out to great Melbourne brands including Bellroy tech bags, Tina M Copenhagen hats, Knotty Towel Turkish towels and Frank Green cups!

And Kirstie talks in-depth about what it’s like cruising to Norway and tips for when you hit the sea roads. And finally, we have a giveaway for a double pass to see the new movie Two Tickets to Greece - to enter, drop us a line at hello@theworldawaits.au - and reveal all about our upcoming summer series!

(00:48) Cruising in Norway

(19:14) Laura Waters long-distance walking

(37:36) Best travel Christmas gifts--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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“We go to a place where there are 70 cows this guy milks and the milk goes straight into the dairy where he makes the cheese, and then we sit in the farmhouse and eat the food … these families are getting more and more revered for what they are doing because they kept the old traditions alive…  you feel the history through the food.” Lyndey Milan OAM, author, celebrity chef, culinary tour host, lyndeymilan.com 

In this week’s episode of The World Awaits, food extraordinaire Lyndey Milan talks to Kirstie about her latest food tours to Morocco and Puglia in 2024, the passion of producers you’ll visit and why the food you taste, and the places you go will be unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.

Kirstie also puts co-host and Middle East expert Belle Jackson, under the spotlight about her most recent trip to Saudi Arabia. She answers all the questions you’ve wanted to know about this otherworldly destination including the ever-debated dress code and visas, and explaining why it’s one destination to watch, globalsalsa.com .

We also tell you the top foodie destinations according to Conde Nast Traveller readers, and it’s also giveaway time! If you love Greece, you’ll want to listen in for this one; we have three double passes to a new movie, Two Tickets To Greece, which launches in cinemas on Boxing Day. To go into the draw, drop us a line on the contact page on our website, or email us at hello@theworldawaits.au and tell us why you’d like to win.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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As Australia celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Uluru Handback, host Belle Jackson shares how you can take a bite of the red dust on a drive holiday around the Red Centre Way. 

From Alice Springs/Alice Springs to Watarrka/Kings Canyon and Uluru, here's your list of where to stay, what to eat and some of the best things to do on a roadtrip in the Northern Territory.

Also, the world's best hotels are recognised in the new Michelin Key hotels guide; Australia's Lizard Island is the only  the three-key hotel, with Longtitude 131 near Uluru, Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island and Drift House in Port Fairy, Victoria. For the full list

And dogs on planes - are you on board? Virgin Australia has launched its new trial, as well as more generous carry-on limits. 

Belle's recommendations on the Red Centre Way: 

Ooraminna Station, 40 mins from Alice Springs, https://www.ooraminna.com.au/
Ormiston Gorge, West Macdonnell Ranges https://nt.gov.au/parks/find-a-park/tjoritja-west-macdonnell-national-park/ormiston-gorge
Kings Creek Station https://kingscreekstation.com.au/
Ayres Rock Resort, https://www.ayersrockresort.com.au/
Standley Chasm, West Macdonnell Ranges, https://standleychasm.com.au/
Northern Territory Tourism https://northernterritory.com/

Other places mentioned:
Melbourne Winery https://www.melbournewinery.com.au/
Virgin Australia https://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/ 

#northernterritory

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Have you ever wanted to pack everything up and do the Big Lap around Australia? 

Kirianna Poole did, and so along with her husband, they bought a vintage camper, refitted it, and with a toddler in tow, circumnavigated Australia. They’ve now also covered the length of New Zealand and have Japan in their sights. Kiri talks to Kirstie about her book, The Slow Road Cookbook, her remarkable journey (and two more pregnancies along the way), some of her favourite spots to stop, and her love of cooking on the road, See theslowroad_ on Insta. 

“The spice trade is the second oldest profession and has about as many rogues in it as the oldest profession,” says Belle’s guest, Ian Hemphill. The founder of spice emporium Herbie’s Spices, Ian, talks about the world of spices – and why he never brings them back in his luggage. Ian has spent decades travelling the world seeking the best spices, from the markets of southern India to Spain’s Basque region, and he also leads occasional spice tours to India. See herbies.com.au 

We also reveal the newest travel trends from Expedia, and talk about some of the newest and refurbished airport hotels, and give you the low-down on Skytrax’ award for the world’s top airport hotels. 

A big thanks to our sound producer Alaisdair Leith and if you’d like to buy us a coffee (so to speak) so we can keep the show on the road, please check out our ko-fi account at ko-fi.com/theworldawaits .. and we’d love it if you could hit that subscribe button, too, at theworldawaits.au (00:15) Travel writer of the Year link(05:23) Expedia’s travel trends link(08:28) Author Kiri Poole about roadtripping in a vintage Kombi link (22.37) new airport hotels and Skytrax’ best airport hotel link(27:32) Ian Herbie Hemphill on the world’s spice routes link#theworldawaits #travelpodcast #wanderlust #explore #escape #adventure #vanlife #spiceroad #herbiesspices #herbies #theslowroad #india www.expedia.com/newsroom/introducing-unpack-24-the-trends-in-travel-from-expedia-hotels-com-and-vrbo/ https://www.worldairportawards.com/worlds-best-airport-hotels-2023/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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 Fancy taking broomstick riding classes, or discovering thePeaky effect in the British Midlands? Maria Sykes of Visit Britain encourages you to load your watchlist with the best new Brit flix, including the new Bridgerton and The Crown series, and Welcome to Wrexham for some Welsh football action. Add Wonka to the mix, then go explore the destinations, including Oxford, Bath and Lime Regis. For more inspo, see visitbritain.com

"People are exhausted… we see a lot of people burning out, so guests are looking for a solution for exhaustion, for stress, for how to live an ambitious, successful life but not burn out,“  says Lyndall Mitchell. An author, accredited coach and founder of Aurora Spa Group, Lyndall talks about why wellness travel is in demand, the types of people seeking it out and what the future is going to hold., auroraspa.com.au 

We also talk about the best tourism villages according to the World Tourism Organisation (⁠unwto.org/tourism-villages⁠), and Conde Nast Traveler’s wellness hotel hotlist – which includes the divine new Banyan Tree AlUla in Saudi Arabia, banyantree.com/saudi-arabia/alula --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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“Maui needs visitors, it’s very much open .. and the more people that come to visit and spend money here, the better it is for Maui’s recovery”, says Lianne Driessen from Sail Trilogy, a 50-year-old tourism business integral in helping rebuild Maui.

Lianne talks to Kirstie about the fires that devastated Maui, including claiming her own home 12 weeks ago, and what you can do to help in its recovery, sailtrilogy.com 

Did you know there are only 45 foreigners living in the tiny kingdom of Bhutan? One of them is Carissa Nimah, an Australian who is responsible for marketing the Land of the Thunder Dragon to the rest of the world. Surrounded by snowy Himalayan peaks, temples and a Buddhist approach to everything, she talks to Belle about the hiking trails, homestays and spirituality of Bhutan, bhutan.travel  

We’re also announcing the winners of our giveaway, two copies of Lonely Planet’s new book, Best in Travel 2024 https://www.lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel 

We also give you some tips to ensure your insurance claim is successful if you suffer the fate of monkeys (or people) stealing your belongings, and we cover Fodor's 2024 No List; travel list of places to avoid, fodors.com/news/news/fodors-no-list-2024 

(00:05:22) Rebuilding Maui

(00:28:21) Let's go to Bhutan! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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Walking slowly in silence in the Nepalese Himalayas is just one of the ways travel writer Nina Karnikowski says we can embrace mindful travel. 

Belle talks to Nina about taking the time to travel, and taking in the world around us on a more acute level. “We can travel at a pace so fast, we actually miss all the wonder around us as we tick our boxes and return home exhausted," she says. 

You can see more about Nina’s work, including her latest book, The Mindful Traveller, at ⁠ninakarnikowski.com, and for more about her tour to the Nepalese Himalayas, visit worldexpeditions.com 

For many refugees from war-torn countries, settling into Australian life can be daunting. Especially for those who have suffered trauma most of us can’t even imagine. Finding solace in nature himself, Neil McCulloch decided to start a charity where he could help new refugees in Australia settle into life here, and experience an Aussie pastime, camping and hiking – and First Hike Project was born, firsthikeproject.org.au

Neil talks to Kirstie about how the transformative effect of nature on many of the refugees he takes into the Aussie bush, and why it’s so life-changing.

We also reveal the world’s most loved landmarks, including which Australian landmark makes the list (it might just surprise you), share tips on the best ways to save money when you’re travelling in Europe, and take a little ride down the Great Victorian Rail Trail, see greatvictorianrailtrail.com.au --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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Bill Bensley is world renowned for his unique, inspiring and award-winning hotel designs and eye-catching architecture, bringing to life more than 200 resorts, hotels and palaces in over 30 countries. He is also a concerned conservationist and passionate philanthropist, and a pioneer in helping communities, and preserving conservation and wildlife. He tells Kirstie why he’s so passionate about philanthropy and his next big project, bensley.com

Also, Lonely Planet has released its new Best in Travel 2024, an annual guide to the top destinations to visit next year. Chris Zeiher from Lonely Planet tells Belle why Mongolia is the place to be in 2024. We also talk about new cycling and train routes, best sustainable destinations and great value travel; expect to hear about destinations as far afield as Spain and Palau, and Australia’s own Kangaroo Island, lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel 

GIVEAWAY! We also have two copies of the beautiful Best in Travel 2024 coffee-table book to give away – just drop us a line at hello@theworldawaits.au or leave a message via our contact page, https://theworldawaits.au/home-2/contact/ 

And if you’d also like to do a walking food tour of Footscray, which Belle did recently with Intrepid Travel and the Australian Society of Travel Writers – or a morning in Delhi or a tour of New York’s brownstone buildings, amongst other experiences – check out Intrepid Travel’s awesome Urban Adventures, ⁠urbanadventures.com

We also chat about the best (and worst) places to travel as a solo female traveller, from Malaysia to South Africa, you can see the results here (though we disagree with some of them!) moneytransfers.com/news/2023/09/13/the-best-countries-for-solo-female-travellers

And the world’s top sunset locations according to research commissioned by left luggage specialist Bounce, is right here in our own back yard, in Uluru. Find out where the other top spots around the world are for a setting sun, usebounce.com/blog/sunset-skies--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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Skiing in Japan in 2023/24 is going gangbusters. Europe is having a sweet spot with prices and new snow experiences.  And there’s always Canada – Whistler and the Powder Highway string of resorts. The question is: where should you ski this northern winter?

Powder hound and journalist Flip Byrnes has slid on every continent, and answers all your ski questions as she talks about her new book, Ultimate Skiing and Snowboarding (Hardie Grant). We also cover off heli-ski in Greenland, why Italy is so good this year, cross-country ski and beginner skiing in Aspen Colorado and the delights of apres-ski. 

We also get spooky ahead of Halloween, and reveal the most haunted alley in the world (hint: it’s in Scotland, see planetcruise.com). And Alaisdair and Belle share their favourite travel gadgets; we both love Bellroy tech bags – made in Melbourne from recycled materials – Belle’s second pick is the Swiss-made Skross universal travel adapter, and Alaisdair swears by Twelve South travel adaptors.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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Bininj man Ben Tyler talks to Belle about growing up in what’s now Kakadu National Park, in the Northern Territory. The creator of the Dird Full Moon Feasts at Cooinda Lodge, Ben talks about foraging for bush tucker, speaking language and the power of Country. To find out more about the Dird dinners and travelling in Kakadu, visit kakadukitchen.com.au To learn more about the Bininj Kunwok language of West Arnhem Land, visit njamed.com Also, nutritionist Sheryl Takayama shares some great tips on how to keep your stomach healthy while you’re travelling. Sheryl, whose clients include flight attendants and travellers getting ready for their big trip, talks about how to minimise the stress of inflight travel on your gut (spoiler: say no to constant snacking while on the plane!) so you hit the ground running in the best possible condition. And stay to the end to hear Sheryl’s most bizarre travel experience. It will knock your socks off – guaranteed! See whyweightacademy.com

Our film reviewer and audio guru Alaisdair Leith drops some hot tips for movies that evoke their filming locations, from Oklahoma to the Greek isles, and is travel insurance worth the money? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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Where do you go to step off the beaten track of wine – away from the unholy trinity of chardonnay, shiraz and sauvignon blanc? Author and wine writer Max Allen talks to Belleabout his new book, Alternative Reality: How Australian wine changed course. The book includes the best cellar doors in Australia where you can explore the exciting alternative grape varieties we’re drinking (or should be drinking) now. Keep listening to the end to hear his hot tip of the next big grape varietal… See melbournebooks.com.au 

Mat Lewis, of hand-picked luxury resorts group View Retreats, talks to Kirstie about their new wellness escapes, which he dubs ‘discovery and recovery’. He talks about View’s favourite south-east Asian wellness destinations – Thailand, Sri Lanka, Bali, Vietnam and Cambodia. People want to step away, to have downtime, to get away from endless scrolling and to live a more simple, holistic life, says Mat, who is also a qualified life coach practicing for the past decade. See viewretreats.com

We’re also talking about using AI to plan your travel adventures, courtesy of new research from Euromonitor and our top inflight peeves according to Agoda’s Travel Bugbears Survey 2023 (hint: they all smell or sound bad, and don’t get us started on the armrest wars!) 

A big shout out to our audio producer Alaisdair Leith. And if you love all things travel, subscribe wherever you listen to your favourite pods, and please give us a rating or review :) 

(00:00:31) Top inflight peeves – they all smell bad

(00:05:31) Alternative wine varietals 

(00:30:07) Using AI to plan your travel adventures

(00:33:46) New wellness journeys--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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Morocco is a country that relies heavily on tourism, and it has a long road ahead to recover from the devastating earthquake that killed more than 2,900 people when it struck the High Atlas Mountain range near Marrakech just weeks ago. Australian David Mannix of Arcadia Expeditions, who lives in Marrakech, talks about his experience “being shot around like a pinball” during the quake and how you can best support the North African nation. We also talk to By Prior Arrangement’s lead guide in Marrakech, Abdellah Amghar, who explains why you need to make sure you don’t cancel travel plans to Morocco, and which other parts of the country you can explore to put your tourist dollar where it’s needed most.

We also chat about adult-only sections on planes – would you pay extra to avoid sitting next to a (potential) screaming child? And luxe travel advisor Virtuoso reveals the leading types of trips we’re all seeking. 

Our tip this week is about how to avoid being ripped off when you travel, based on USA Today's research on tourist attractions it says are overrated and overpriced – although we don’t necessarily agree with them all! https://www.usatoday.com/money/blueprint/credit-cards/biggest-tourist-traps-in-the-world/

Australian David Mannix, founder of Arcadia Expeditions, had just returned to live in Marrakech a week before the devastating earthquake struck. He tells Kirstie how it was like a plane was on top of them and he thought the building was going to collapse as he ran from his apartment with his young son in his arms. David’s wife is Moroccan, and he is urging travellers to return to Marrakech to help the many thousands of people relying on tourism. https://www.adventure.travel/tour-operators/arcadia-expeditions

Also, on the ground in Morocco, By Prior Arrangement lead guide, Abdellah Amghar, tells Belle about the many other places you can visit outside of the High Atlas Mountains, and how you can best support Moroccans at this challenging time. https://www.bypriorarrangement.com/

A big shout out to our producer, Alaisdair Leith. And if you love all things travel, subscribe wherever you listen to your favourite pods, and please give us a rating or review!--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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It’s the last country to open its doors after the pandemic, but travel to China is finally back, as Wendy Wu, founder of Wendy Wu Tours tells us. Also, what do you do if you meet a bear in the woods? We ask former software developer Marg Leehane, now the owner of the Great Bear Lodge in the wilds of British Columbia. Also, how to claim credits for unused flights from Qantas and Jetstar and new research from @july unveils some rather…er… interesting things we’re packing on holiday. We urge you to supporting Intrepid Travel’s Morocco earthquake appeal.

The last country to open, tourism to China is back, as Wendy Wu – founder of Wendy Wu Tours – tells us today. Also, we’re talking with former software developer turned wildlife lodge owner, Marg Leehane, about her lodge in the wilds of British Columbia. We also explain how to claim your credits for unused flights from Qantas and Jetstar, and new research unveils some rather ‘interesting’ things we’re taking on holiday. Wendy Wu Tours https://www.wendywutours.com.au/ 

Australian Marg Leehane did what most could only dream of. The former software developer threw in her corporate career for a life immersed in nature, and she is now one of the owners of Great Bear Lodge in British Columbia. The floating lodge hosts guests from all over the world to see the grizzly bears in the Great Bear Rainforest. She talks about why the region is so special and explains the best way to have close encounters with bears in the wild. https://greatbeartours.com/great-bear-nature-tours--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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Bursting with culture, balmy nights, bustling streets and flavoursome food make Siem Reap a must-do for any family holiday, especially when it could be the last trip you do with your teens.

This week, host Kirstie Bedford explains why Siem Reap is the ultimate last hurrah when it comes to family holidays.

Finder details how you can get the most out of your frequent flyer points – and the best credit cards to maximise them.

And we give you the lowdown on the new Kyoto tourism tax, which comes into play next year. 

Read Responsible Travel's detailed report about tourism taxes at https://www.responsibletravel.com/copy/tourist-taxes

Kirstie's cover story in the Sunday Star Times is at https://www.thepost.co.nz/travel/360838639/last-hurrah-why-siem-reap-should-be-last-family-holiday-you-do-teens-go and her hotel review for Karryon is here https://karryon.com.au/luxury/fcc-angkor-by-avani-cultural-heart-cambodia/.

And you can find out more about FCC Angkor by Avani, where Kirstie stayed at https://www.avanihotels.com/.

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K-Pop, too-cute hanok guesthouses and some of the world’s best street food: travel consultant Lachlan Woodland talks about why you need to get on board the next flight to Korea. Also, Toni Ambler of The Travel Corporation on how you can help keep ancient traditions alive – from weaving to flamenco – by travelling responsibly. We also talk about how you prepare to go on a wellness retreat, and finally - comfort seeker or mindful traveller? The latest research from booking.com says we’re one of four travel types - which one are you? 

Lachlan Woodland is an expert travel consultant with tour company Inside Asia Tours and shares his love of the country that brought us K-Pop, too-cute hanok guesthouses in Bukchon and some of the world’s best street food. (Not to mention turning a demilitarization zones into a must-visit destination!) Lachlan tips Busan’s Jagalchi seafood markets and the off-beat Mangwon markets in the west of Seoul for local food experiences, while the more touristy Myeong-dong and Namdaemun markets are great starters, insideasiatours.com  

Toni Ambler, The Travel Corporation’s (TTC) Australia and New Zealand managing director, tells Kirstie she fell in love with travel thanks to her father, who worked for Contiki in the 1970s – a brand now under her remit. Toni talks about the importance of the TreadRight Foundation and how by travelling with TTC, you can help keep ancient traditions alive from weaving to flamenco, treadright.org 

Kirstie soaked up the good life in Aurora Bathhouse & Spa this week while Belle was a blissful guest at the six-suite Drift House in Port Fairy, in western Victoria, auroraspa.com.au; drifthouse.com.au and our wellness retreat tips come from Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, and The Landing in New Zealand, gwinganna.com, thelandingnz.com 

A big shout out to our very patient sound producer, Alaisdair Leith! And if you love all things travel, hit subscribe wherever you listen to your favourite pods, and don’t be shy about giving us a rating or review!

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Have the best wildlife encounter (best for you, best for the wildlife), and is Bali really all it’s cracked up to be? Also, sip your way around the world at these leading wine destinations and find out how you can while away your time (for free!) at the airport. What an episode!

Kirstie catches up with award-winning wildlife photographer and journalist Rachelle Mackintosh to chat about the powerful impact of seeing wildlife in their domain. She shares hair-raising tiger encounters, talks of her obsession with sighting whales, and explains how you can ensure you’re doing the right thing by the wildlife experience you book, https://faunographic.com/

Belle chats with Bali-based author and travel writer Penny Watson, who moved to the Island of the Gods in the midst of the pandemic. Penny talks about how not to be an absolute loser when you visit Bali, and how to spread the love. We’re talking Kintamani, the waterfalls of Munduk, Amed on the east coast and Lovina in the north – basically anywhere beyond Ubud, Kuta and Canggu – for access to local businesses, ceremonies, and a connection to the Balinese people. She’s also just released her new book, Wilderness, which you can order here pennywatson.com.au/books  

Also, here’s the link to Alex the Flemish Giant bunny at San Francisco’s airport, see  instagram.com/alex.thegreat100 at take a listen to Belle’s chat with ABC radio Melbourne, talking about how to while away the time in airports around the world, https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/melbourne-sundays/uncovering-the-secrets-of-airports/102752868

And a big shout out to our producer Alaisdair Leith for his zen-like patience, and to you for listening! Don’t be afraid to subscribe to The World Awaits via your favourite podcast wrangler or at theworldawaits.au--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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What’s your worst fashion disaster while travelling? Believe us, we’ve made them all – white snow gear, red wildlife safari jackets… Tune in as we spill the beans. We also go on a series of day walks around Melbourne with the authors of a new book, Day Trip Melbourne, and wind down on a slow travel journey through Switzerland with Swiss expert Carolyn Schonafinger. 

Walkers and authors Evi O and Andrew Grune have just released their newest book, Day Trip Melbourne (Thames & Hudsons) Chatting to Belle, they share their favourite strolls within 130km of the city, and reveal their next title, Dog Trip Melbourne, out soon! thamesandhudson.com.au  

Carolyn Schonafinger is a certified Swiss travel expert, and talks to Kirstie about how Switzerland is leading the way in slow travel, including train travel, in this spectacular mountainous country, holidaystoswitzerland.com 

We’re also getting hungry as we round up our favourite food festivals, including Taste Port Douglas, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, and a special call out to Hokitika's Wildfoods festival in New Zealand.

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We’ve hit double digits! We’re talking tourism that changes the lives of children in remote South African communities with Charles Street of Inkwazi Adventures, and caravanning around Australia with the queen of the caravans, author Catherine Best. We're also talking about how to avoid being hacked from an airport selfie and how bucket-list destinations have changed.

Charles Street is the founder of Inkwazi Adventures, and he shares how you can make a genuine difference to the communities you mean. He explains to Kirstie how the simple act of giving a bike is transforming children’s lives in remote communities in South Africa. And you can be part of it. See  inkwaziadventures.com.au 

Catherine Best is the author of Ultimate Caravan Trips: Australia, and she spills the hot tips for great vanlife in conversation with Belle. She also drops the names of her two favourite campsites - South Lefroy Bay camp, a low-cost camp on the Ningaloo coast in Western Australia, and Potato Point, near Narooma on the NSW South Coast.  See hardiegrant.com.au 

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We're in love with a new collation of stylish and sustainable stays, GoKinda, and talk the Australian author of Lost in Florence about off-the-beaten travel spots in this tourist hotspot. We also take you through all the newest Melbourne hotel openings, and do you know when you should book your travel insurance?

Alison Greer is the founder of GoKinda, a new hotel booking platform that helps you stay stylishly and sustainably. As she tells Belle, the hotels in her collection are hand-picked and drawn from around Australia and the world, gokinda.com.au 

Author Nardia Plumridge chats to us from Italy, where she’s working on the next run of her popular book, Lost in Florence. Chatting with Kirstie, Nardia shares a few places that fly under the radar, and how Florence will steal your heart, lostinflorence.it

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We pick some of the most scenic movies now showing at the Melbourne International Film Festival, and find out what it’s like to walk the Camino de Santiago 35 times. We’ll also reveal the world’s most powerful passport and ask which is cheaper; a hotel or Airbnb?

Glenyce Johnston, founder of small group walking tour company, Wandering the World, talks to Kirstie Bedford about why she packed in her corporate career to wander the Camino de Santiago. 

She has since visited 136 countries across every continent and walked the Camino 35 times. 

Glenyce has spent the last three months wandering the Camino, the Douro Valley in Portugal and the Coast to Coast across England, and explains why she can’t get enough of the great outdoors, and why you should get amongst it, too. See wanderingtheworld.com.au

And welcome back to our entertainment reporter Alaisdair Leith, who’s picked movies from Ireland, Germany’s Baltic coast and the Sami lands of Norway for their incredible landscapes. He chats with Belinda Jackson about the movies – Afire, The Miracle Club and Let the River Flow – which are all showing at the Melbourne International Film Festival. See miff.com.au 

And we promised you a link to the 24-hour live webcam from the Sanctuaries of Our Lady of Lourdes, directfromlourdes.com 

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We talk to Bruce Poon Tip, one of travel’s most influential voices, about community tourism and we’ll also take you to the tropical paradise that is the Maldives. Also on the pod, best outdoor showers and tubs, and which do you think is the best country for solo travel? 

Social entrepreneur, New York Times best-selling author and owner of adventure travel company G Adventure Bruce Poon Tip talks to Kirstie Bedford from Toronto about the importance of community tourism, and what you can do as a traveller to genuinely make change to communities in need.  Bruce also reveals the countries that are leading the way in travel for change, gadventures.com 

Watch Bruce’s moving video here, which is sure to change your perception of travel: thelasttouristfilm.com 

To tropical islands and swaying palms, Belle catches up with Mark Thomson, a senior executive of Minor Hotels, which has seven hotels in the Maldives. The burning question is, with all our own sun and sand, why should Australians visit the Maldives? Visit avanihotels.com and  anantara.com 

If you’d like to read more about those solo travel stats, here’s the survey by left luggage service Bounce, usebounce.com 

And finally, if you want to subscribe to the special 40th anniversary issue of Vacations & Travel which Kirstie mentions, click here: https://subscribe.vacationstravel.com/

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We’re off to Fiji with Tourism Fiji CEO Brent Hill and explore Japan's rich arts scene. We’ve also got some hacks for beating the increase in flight prices, and what do you think is the world’s most mispronounced names (and do we pronounce them correctly?)

Tourism Fiji CEO Brent Hill tells Kirstie how he took over the top job in Fiji travel in the middle of a pandemic, as well as some of the lesser-known things to do in Fiji. He also shares why it’s a place that he’ll carry with him forever, www.fiji.travel

Arts tour guide and Limelight Arts Travel founder Kathleen Olive chats to Belinda about how to get under Japan’s skin, in her Tale of Two Cities tour, which covers traditional Kyoto and ultra-modern Tokyo. She shares her top sites in the two cities, and explains why the 15 rocks of Ryōan-ji (theTemple at the Dragon of Peace) is so sublime, www.limelight-arts-travel.com.au

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We’re off to Spain and Nauru, we’re talking airport lounge hacks and the world’s best airline for 2023 – does Singapore Airlines deserve the golden gong? 

Our guests this episode are:
Ben Groundwater in conversation with Belinda Jackson

Travel writer, author and tour guide Ben Groundwater tells us how much he loves Spain, and why you should love it too. We’re talking about where to eat paella and drink Jerez sherry, about hundred-year-old Basque cider houses, why cañas (small glasses of beer) at breakfast are a thing. And Ben’s top dining recommendation is (drum roll)…

Asadore Etxebarri: San Juan Plaza, 1, 48291 Axpe, Bizkaia, asadoretxebarri.com 

You can read Ben’s adventures each week in the Traveller section of the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, and his two new books are Ultimate Food & Drink Australia and Neon Lights in Tokyo. Join Ben on his Insiders Food Tour of San Sebastian with World Expeditions departs in May and October 2024. Tickets are selling like hot churros! See www.bengroundwater.com  

Lisa Pagotto in conversation with Kirstie Bedford

The tiny Pacific nation of Nauru is synonymous with refugee detention centres, but its government is encouraging tourism to the region for a much-needed boost to its economy. 

Crooked Compass founder and CEO Lisa Pagotto has just returned from Nauru and is now taking tours to the region, to add to their many off-the-grid destinations – from Moldova to Mongolia. She tells Kirstie what travellers can expect on a trip to this tropical micronation, and how your tourism dollar really will make a difference. 

Crooked Compass: www.crooked-compass.com 

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Strap in, we're taking you to Idaho and Africa!

Seeing the Big Five in Africa is a bucket list destination for most travellers. Kirstie Bedford talks to African safari specialist Patrick Clementson, who has spent more than 25 years exploring the continent, about what makes it so magical. www.abercrombiekent.com.au

And one for the powder hounds, Belinda Jackson chats with US-based author, travel writer and podcaster Brian Thacker, who provides an insight into the little-known ski fields of Idaho. www.brianthacker.tv

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Ivona Siniarska has been to Africa 40 times and the founder and managing director of travel booker Take Off Go says it's more than a destination, "it's a deep-seated emotion".

From Kenya to South Africa, Ivona talks to us about the best places to go, where to start for first-timers, and how to ensure you're travelling in a way that's right by the wildlife, and ensures you are able to make the most of the experience, https://www.takeoffgo.com/

Also, loud talkers, crowding the luggage carousel and throwing your plane seat back… these are just some of the things that give us the ick when we travel, according to Vodafone.

And the Great Aussie Pie Competition results are in - listen in for where to get the best pie in Australia. Road trips just got a whole lot more delicious, https://greataussiepiecomp.com.au/

Read Kirstie's shortlisted adventure story for the Australian Society of Travel Writers' Excellence Awards about Sardinia and Belle's shortlisted culinary story about eating in Oman.

Belle has also been shortlisted for the 2025 Travel Writer of the Year award; her stories include AlUla in Saudi Arabia and Moor, Please! A fabulous self-guided journey on Spain's public trains from Seville to Jerez and Cadiz, with Inntravel.

And if you'd like to hear Belle chatting with 2GB about her cover story about travelling through Tunisia with Intrepid Travel, and the goat that tried to derail it all, listen here, https://omny.fm/shows/2gb-afternoons/travel-tunisia 

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We're off to Paris and Australia's Kangaroo Island!
Hayley Baillie, co-founder of Baillie Lodges, one of Australia's premier portfolios of luxury properties, talks to us about its flagship property, the crown on Kangaroo Island, Southern Ocean Lodge, which was completely destroyed by bushfire three years ago, and the painstaking efforts that have gone into rebuilding this South Australian icon. https://baillielodges.com.au/

French cheesemonger Valerie Henbest dials in from Paris. The Normandy-born owner of the Smelly Cheese Co in Adelaide’s Central Market talks to us about where to find, and eat, the best cheese in Paris. Stay tuned for her top cheesemonger in the first arrondissement, https://smellycheese.co/

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We're taking you to India, to the Victorian ski fields and to Italy.
Life coach and tour leader Jo Langhorne of Soulful Escapes talks about how truly transformational travel can be, and why India tops her list for travel destinations that will change you, www.soulfulescapes.com.au

Also, as the Australia ski season kicks off this weekend, we catch up with Vail International Resort’s Emily Smith from her base at Hotham ski resort in northern Victoria to hear what’s happening on and off the slopes, www.vail.com

And finally, movie buff and our entertainment reporter Alaisdair Leith takes us to Italy and the filming locations that feature in the new movie Book Club: 

The Next Chapter, which stars Jane Fonda and the Trevi Fountain.
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Welcome to the very first podcast of The World Awaits, with travel journalists Kirstie Bedford and Belinda Jackson. This week, we take you to Rome, Tasmania and Champagne. 

This episode, actress Alicia Gardiner talks about the best filming locations you can visit in Tasmania where her newest series, Deadloch, was filmed. To see more, visit instagram.com/aliciagardiner__

And Australian-Italian author Maria Pasquale tells us how to eat like a Roman. The author of The Eternal City also shares her tip for where to find the best food in Rome, see smithstreetbooks.com/catalogue/the-eternal-city/ 

Thanks for listening to our very first episode!

You can follow us on instagram and facebook @theworldawaitspodcast 

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“Opera and classical music shouldn’t be just for the elite,” says Australian-born soprano Breana Stillman. The opera singer leads a double life; based in Rome and singing throughout Europe, she’s also on a mission to bring classical music and opera to disadvantaged youth in central Africa, using art as a therapy. 

Breana spends several months a year in Kenya with the charity she founded, OperAffinity, working and performing with impoverished children to develop their artistic abilities, and to create cultural connection through music. 

Follow Breana's journey and for more on OperAffinity and its festival in Todi, Italy, https://www.breanasoprano.com/, https://www.operaffinity.com/ 

Also, while Americans are travelling to Australian in record numbers, Aussies are choosing Asia over the US for their international holidays, according to the latest Travel Trends Report from the  Australian Travel Industry Association, https://atia.travel/ 

And finally, Southern Cross Travel Insurance makes the case for taking out travel insurance for domestic travel, https://www.scti.com.au/ 

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Melissa Hoyer is one of Australia’s most respected lifestyle commentators, journalists and editors, who has worked in the travel and lifestyle sector of the media industry for more than three decades, and has interviewed the likes of Drew Barrymore, Lady Gaga, Cate Blanchett and JK Rowling.

This week, we take a look at what life's like for a leading commentator travelling on the celeb circuit, and find out where the A-listers like to go.

Also, Intrepid's "Not Hot List" is out! This annual report highlights the lesser-known destinations and regions for those who care about treading lightly when they travel.

And our tip this week is from eSIM provider Saily about how to get the most out of your data when you travel. 

Visit us at https://theworldawaits.au or on Instagram here.

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There's great nightlife, it's summer all year round, and really, really hospitable people. Add to that fabulous architecture and a blossoming food scene, and what's not to love about Malta? 

In Australia, he's Mr Malta - Maltese-Australian chef, restaurateur and TV presenter Shane Delia has been returning to the Mediterranean island nation since he was 13, so he knows a thing or two about exploring Malta's food, beaches and lifestyle. 

Talking to the podcast just ahead of Maltese Independence Day, Shane, whose restaurants include Maha in Melbourne, Layla in Brisbane and the Biggie Smalls kebab chain, appears on Channel 9's Postcards every week, says Malta is blossomed with high-end restaurants. "But while it’s well documented where we’ve been, young Maltese chefs are asking, 'Where can we be, who can we be?'" he says.  His hot tips include Marsaskala Bay for swimming and Sphinx Malta for delicious pastizzi. Follow Shane at @shanedelia 

Also, be compensated for late or cancelled flights here in Australia: you can have your say on the proposed Aviation Consumer Protection Scheme, see http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/aviation/aviation-consumer-protections

And finally, car rental group VroomVroomVroom says that Australian airports are the most common place for bingles in your hire car. 

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For many, Noosa on Queensland's Sunshine Coast is all about the surf, sun and stunning boutiques, but on this week’s episode we take you on a deeper dive into this pretty coastal region.

Co-host Kirstie Bedford loves nothing more than an active getaway, and so a chance to hike, bike and kayak in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve was her idea of a dream weekend – throw in whale watching, and it was a match made in heaven.

Take a listen to her recommendations of how to explore a different side of Noosa, with top tips about where to stay, play and eat. Go to https://www.visitnoosa.com.au/ for more and see footage from her recent trip at: @kirstiewrites.

 Also, Skyscanner reveals how Gen Z is travelling today. This teen to 28-year-old age group is a big decision maker when it comes to family travel, and you might just be surprised at what their top priorities are when it comes to a getaway.

And for those who love a bit of stargazing, insuremytrip.com takes us to the best places in the world for astrotourism. The full research is here: https://www.insuremytrip.com/travel-advice/travel-inspiration/best-destinations-for-stargazing/

The places Kirstie mentioned:

https://whalesongsnoosa.com.au/

https://byearthandocean.com.au/noosa-ebike-tours/ and https://byearthandocean.com.au/stingrays-and-everglades-kayak-tour/

Lanai https://lanainoosa.com.au/

Light Years: https://www.lightyearsasiandiner.com.au/

Noosa Surf Club: https://www.noosasurfclub.com.au/

https://www.therisenoosa.com.au/

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Airports are one of the most stressful places we'll find ourselves, and this week, we're looking at travel from the viewpoint of a neurodivergent traveller.  

Sarah Maree Cameron is a radio and TV presenter, writer and comedian. She presents the House of Wellness on Nine Radio, and in Melbourne, the Weekend Break with Grubby on 3AW and TravelOz on Channel 7. 

With that job description, she's constantly on the road, and we chat about how she manages her hectic schedule while juggling a number of dietary and health issues. Listen for her top tips on staying stress-free and healthy. Follow Sarah Maree on instagram for more wellness tips 

Also, which are the most crowded tourist destinations in the world?  A couple are particular favourites for Australian travellers, according to new analysis from  Deluxe Holiday Homes. 

And Kadi Luggage reveals how to get the best bang for your buck when shopping duty-free at airports. 

Sarah Maree's tips include:

Listening to sleep stories with the Calm app 

Hotteeze heat pads 

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When Chelsea Ross launched the world’s first women-only surf retreat in Bali, it was purely because it was something she would have loved to do herself.

Twenty-two years later, she’s hosted more than 18,000 women seeking a transformational experience in Bali through Goddess Retreats.

She shares her experience, tips for the best ways to have a wellness experience in the popular Indonesian hotspot, and explains why you should give surfing a go – and how to get started!

The latest research on the 'grey gap year' shows as we age we’re now increasingly likely to want to spend the kids’ inheritance on a big holiday. Read the full Grey Gap Year report here.

The Japan National Tourism Organisation gives the low-down on food etiquette in Japan – think you shouldn’t slurp your noodles? Think again!

Also, win a copy of Ultimate Dive Sites by last week's guest, Todd Thimios - see our Instagram to enter, and here's Kirstie's story about the luxury advisors turned digital nomads. https://karryon.com.au/luxury/nomad-the-consultants-living-remote/

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Merry Christmas to you all and welcome back to our Summer Series!

This week, we're talking tropics, taking you to Tahiti and Papua New Guinea. 

Co-host Kirstie Bedford talks about attending Tahiti's first annual yoga festival – a chance to find her Zen and connect with culture in this tropical paradise. Listen to festival founder Rani Chaves talk about what makes Tahiti such a unique destination for a yoga festival, and how yoga can be so healing, and you'll hear from leading international yoga teacher and instructor Elka Haeckel about how what you do on the mat can transform your entire mindset.

In our second interview, 4km from Australia, PNG is our closest, and also our least explored neighbour. Australian musician and composer David Bridie talks about his connection with PNG, which spans four decades. A founding member of Not Drowning, Waving, David first visited PNG in 1986; he is now an initiated Tolai man, returning more than 40 times, for work and to visit friends who've become family in Rabaul, Bougainville and Manus Island, as documented in the film Abebe; see davidbridie.com 

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Welcome to the underwater world of photographer and professional diver Todd Thimios, who shares his best dive sites in Australia and around the world – he’s got some hot tips for snorkellers, too. 

To win a copy of Todd's book, Ultimate Dive Sites (Hardie Grant), follow us on instagram @theworldawaitspodcast and catch him MC'ing at the Go Diving Show at Sydney Showgrounds 6-7 September, see godivingshow.com/anz/sydney-dive-show 

Also, do we really need travel insurance for local travel within Australia? Southern Cross Travel Insurance’s (SCTI), most recent Future of Travel report might just change your mind, scti.com.au 

And where's the best place in the world to work and holiday? IWG's annual Work from Anywhere Barometer names the best cities for a workcation, and there are a few surprises in the top 10. Listen for the full list, see iwgplc.com

Also, click here to listen back to Jacques Smit of Sabi Sabi private game reserve in South Africa, and read Kirstie's story from her interview with Jacques here. 

And to find out more about the next big hot in cycling tourism, take a look at Victoria’s High Country's gravel bike riding campaign victoriashighcountry.com.au/ride/

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“We’ve kind of become addicted to the novelty, life is always exciting… someone said to me, ‘you never get beyond the honeymoon stage in these countries you live in’, and I thought well that’s entirely true... but honeymoons are awesome… spending your life on a honeymoon sounds pretty good to me," says Brent Hartinger of Brent and Michael are Going Places. 

Authors, travel writers, digital creators and husbands Brent Hartinger and Michael Jensen have lived in more than 30 countries and travelled to more than 60. The long-time digital nomads have no plans to return to their home in the US, particularly now with Trump at the helm. This week, they share their insights into what it’s like living a nomadic life, with top tips on how you can do it too.

Also, Compare the Market has found almost 30 per cent of Aussies say they have relied on AI tools for travel plans – do you trust it?

And, after the fourth fatal boat accident in Bali this year, how can travellers make safe choices when choosing a boat trip in the Indonesian province? We provide some top tips of how to stay safe on a boating trip in Bali, and you can listen to Belle chatting about it on ABC here.

And here's a link to read Kirstie's story about FCC Angkor by Avani.

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You've booked a holiday to Egypt, but the Grand Egyptian Museum's (GEM) opening has been postponed...again! "All is not lost!" says podcast host and Egypt aficionado Belle Jackson, who is just back from Cairo.

Belle shares her top three things to do in Cairo, including the best Egyptian museums and neighbourhoods, essential experiences and answers the age-old question, is Cairo safe right now? For more of Belle's travels, see https://www.instagram.com/global_salsa 

And we have a winner of our tropical Thai holiday giveaway of four nights at Avani+ Khao Lak! Thanks to Avani Hotels & Resorts, who generously offered this prize to our listeners to celebrate our 100th episode! 

And finally, our tip this week is how to avoid the rainiest places in the world (unless you love a downpour!), and we cover off the craziest things people have left in Ubers.

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Hi there, welcome to our winter series. This week, we're taking you to the idyllic Cocos Keeling Islands – an atoll almost halfway between Australia and Sri Lanka where the airport runway doubles as the golf course, so infrequent are the flights.

Host Kirstie Bedford talks about her recent visit to the remote islands and what makes this largely unknown Australian island a must-visit. You can see some footage of her trip on Instagram at @kirstiewrites

Next up, we chat to author and freelance travel writer Celeste Mitchell about her new book, Ultimate Beaches Australia. She's scoured the nation to come up with 80 of the best beaches from the big names to some secret spots; places for world-class surf breaks or rock pools for the kids.  

Celeste is also owner of Life Unhurried, lifeunhurried.com 

And don't forget to enter our competition to win a tropical holiday in Thailand! To celebrate our 100th episode, we've partnered with Avani Hotels and Resorts to give away four nights' stay for two people in a deluxe room at Avani+ Khao Lak, with daily breakfast and dinner, airport transfers and a Muay Thai boxing class.

Just like the competition post on our Instagram page and tag a friend, and follow both The World Awaits and Avani Hotels, and you're in for the win! 

Entrants can be located anywhere in the world. Entries close 31st July 2025.

*flights not included.

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