Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Winging It Travel Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winging It On Location – Days 2-3-Tallinn: A Trendy Old Town, Estonian History and Monopoly Deal | 08 août 2026 | 00:15:29 | |
Winging It On Location – Days 2-3-Tallinn: A Trendy Old Town, Estonian History and Monopoly Deal In this second instalment of my Winging It On Location series from the Baltics, I spend two full days exploring Estonia’s capital beyond the first evening impressions. From avocado toast in one of Tallinn’s trendiest cafés to a deep dive into the country’s Soviet history, this episode blends food, culture, history and the small moments that make a trip memorable. I wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town in the sunshine, join a free walking tour to learn about Estonia’s path to independence, and take in panoramic views across the city. The next day I head out to the seaside district of Pirita, visit the Soviet memorials and cemetery, and reflect on how Estonia preserves difficult parts of its past. There’s also excellent coffee, cardamom buns, goulash in a bread bowl, jazz at Philly Joe’s, and the beginning of a travel obsession that may last the rest of the trip: Monopoly Deal. If you’re considering a European city break that feels safer, quieter and less crowded than many of the continent’s major capitals, Tallinn might be the perfect choice. In this episode:
Support Winging It Travel Podcast If you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Back in Tallinn and exploring the Old Town in daylight 02:30 Cafés, bakeries and the free walking tour 05:00 Evening food stops and first impressions of Tallinn 06:30 Morning coffee crawl and hidden gems around Rotermann 08:00 Pirita Beach, Soviet memorials and Estonia’s history 10:30 Monopoly Deal, seaside lunch and a slower afternoon 11:45 Jazz, wine and a trendy final night in Tallinn 12:30 Final thoughts: is Tallinn one of Europe’s best city breaks? -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Winging It On Location – Day 1: 5-Hour Layover in Amsterdam & Arriving in Tallinn | 05 août 2026 | 00:12:12 | |
Winging It On Location – Day 1: 5-Hour Layover in Amsterdam & Arriving in Tallinn The European tour is officially underway. In this first on-the-road episode, I take you through my journey from Toronto to Tallinn via Amsterdam, including what you can realistically do with a 5-hour layover at Schiphol Airport. I share the exact train route into the city, why I chose the Jordaan district, and the coffee stop that made the short visit worthwhile. After a quick wander through Amsterdam’s canals, bridges, and tree-lined streets, I head back to the airport for my flight to Estonia. Once in Tallinn, I give my first impressions of the city, explain the easiest tram connection from the airport, and meet up with friends for dinner in the heart of the Estonian capital. If you’re planning an Amsterdam layover, a Tallinn city break, or simply enjoy hearing authentic travel stories from the road, this episode is for you. In this episode:
Support Winging It Travel Podcast If you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Intro & recording live from Tallinn 01:38 Toronto to Amsterdam: the journey begins 02:20 Getting through Schiphol and heading into the city 03:15 The fastest train from Amsterdam Airport to Central Station 04:05 Why I chose the Jordaan district for a short layover 05:30 Canals, bridges, sunshine, and wandering without a plan 06:40 Coffee stop recommendation: KOF Café 07:30 The unexpected challenge of finding a public toilet 08:10 Where to see the famous houses sitting on the water 09:05 Is a 5-hour Amsterdam layover actually worth it? 09:45 Flying to Tallinn and first impressions of Estonia 10:20 Tallinn hotel, tram tips, and city-centre arrival 10:55 Dinner with friends and Estonian food prices 11:10 What’s coming up next on the Baltic tour -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| How Celiac Disease Changed the Way We Travel | My Appearance on The Gluten Free Advocate Podcast | 27 juil. 2026 | 00:43:38 | |
A year ago, my partner Emma was diagnosed with celiac disease, completely changing the way we think about travel. In this special episode, I'm sharing my conversation with Leigh Francis from The Gluten Free Advocate Podcast about what it's really like adapting to gluten-free travel while still chasing adventure. We discuss the emotional side of a diagnosis, how our travel style has evolved from spontaneous backpacking to careful planning, and why destinations like Victoria, BC and parts of Europe have given us confidence that incredible travel is still possible. We also dive into my recent adventures through El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico and Bhutan, my future plans for French Polynesia, Central Asia and Africa, and how this experience is changing the content I create on both the Winging It Travel Podcast and YouTube. Whether you have celiac disease yourself, travel with someone who does, or simply love hearing honest travel conversations, this episode offers practical advice, encouragement and plenty of wanderlust. In this episode you'll hear:
If you want to be able to listen to our conversation from Season 1 - check out this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynv84AuSkek If you have any questions or fun stories to share, feel free to reach out at hieatexplorelove@gmail.com. Substack: https://substack.com/@theglutenfreeadvocate Tik Tok: @theglutenfreeadvocate Facebook: The Gluten Free Advocate Instagram: @theglutenfreeadvocate This episode is produced by Leigh Francis Productions. Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and why I'm sharing this interview 05:45 Catching up since our last conversation 07:45 Emma's celiac diagnosis and what happened 10:45 Life changes after going gluten-free 13:10 Supporting someone with celiac disease 15:45 How travel planning has completely changed 18:40 Future destinations and travelling with confidence 21:40 How celiac disease is changing my travel content 25:30 Podcast updates, YouTube and future plans 27:45 Bucket list destinations around the world 33:40 Rapid-fire travel questions 42:20 Final thoughts and where to find my work -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| 10 Travel Memories That Still Make Me Smile | 20 juil. 2026 | 00:23:36 | |
Some travel memories fade over time, but others stay with you forever. In this solo episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I'm sharing ten very specific travel moments from the past 15 years that instantly take me back whenever I think about them. These aren't just favourite countries or famous landmarks—they're the unexpected moments of peace, achievement, freedom and awe that remind me exactly why I love travelling. From watching the sunrise over the Himalayas after hiking to Poon Hill in Nepal, to discovering paradise in the Cook Islands, exploring Thailand and Myanmar by scooter, reflecting after completing the Inca Trail, standing alone at Petra before the crowds arrived, watching hot air balloons drift over Cappadocia, experiencing the Canadian Rockies at sunrise, and witnessing Volcán Fuego erupt in Guatemala, these are the memories that continue to inspire me to keep exploring. I'd love to hear your own unforgettable travel memories after listening to this episode. In this episode you'll hear:
Support Winging It Travel Podcast If you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:38 Nepal – Poon Hill, hidden tea house and falling in love with the Himalayas 05:20 Cook Islands – Paradise found on Rarotonga and Aitutaki 07:25 Koh Lanta, Thailand – The freedom of exploring by scooter 09:45 Bagan, Myanmar – Temples, sunsets and unforgettable landscapes 11:40 Peru – Reflecting after completing the Inca Trail 14:15 Petra, Jordan – Experiencing the Treasury before the crowds 16:00 Margaret River, Australia – Seasonal work, friendships and beach days 17:45 Cappadocia, Türkiye – Sunrise hot air balloon adventure 19:15 Lake Louise & Moraine Lake – Canada's most breathtaking scenery 20:55 Acatenango & Volcán Fuego – Watching an active volcano erupt in Guatemala 22:05 Final reflections and listener question -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| REVISITED - Episode 25 - 10 Things I Would Advise A New Traveller | 14 juil. 2026 | 01:00:29 | |
Five years ago, I recorded one of the earliest solo episodes of Winging It, sharing ten pieces of travel advice that I wished someone had told me before I set off exploring the world. Since then, I've visited many more countries, built a travel podcast, launched a YouTube channel, started a podcast production business and experienced everything from hiking to Tiger's Nest in Bhutan to travelling through Guatemala, Mexico and El Salvador. So I decided to revisit that episode and ask a simple question: Would I still give the same advice today? In this episode, I react to each of my original ten travel tips, discussing what's changed, what I've learned over another five years of travelling and whether my opinions still hold true. From embracing flexibility and getting outside your comfort zone to documenting your travels, packing efficiently and making the most of working holiday visas, this is an honest look at how both travel—and I—have evolved. Whether you're planning your very first backpacking trip or you've already caught the travel bug, I hope these updated reflections help you travel smarter, more confidently and make the most of every adventure. If you've got your own travel advice that you'd give to a first-time traveller, I'd love to hear it. Get in touch on social media or leave a comment on YouTube. Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction 02:30 – Why I'm revisiting one of my earliest podcast episodes 03:00 – 1. Be flexible when planning 09:00 – 2. Get out of your comfort zone 15:15 – 3. Make the most of work visas 25:45 – 4. Document everything 31:40 – 5. Take your time travelling 37:45 – Support the podcast 38:30 – 6. Invest in noise-cancelling headphones 42:45 – 7. Don't rely solely on guidebooks 45:55 – 8. Be sociable and friendly 48:30 – 9. Save more money than you think you'll need 51:15 – 10. Pack efficiently 54:45 – Final reflections on five years of travel -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Why the World Cup Proves Travel Brings People Together | My Updated 2026 Travel Plans & Recovering From Kidney Stones | 08 juil. 2026 | 00:17:27 | |
Why the World Cup Proves Travel Brings People Together | My Updated 2026 Travel Plans & Recovering From Kidney Stones This week I'm sharing a more personal update as I recover from kidney stones, reflect on the incredible atmosphere surrounding the FIFA World Cup, and look ahead to an exciting second half of the year packed with travel. After a slower start to 2026, I'm finally getting ready to hit the road again with trips to Toronto, Estonia, Finland, Paris and French Polynesia. I also share how this period away from travelling has helped me rethink my content, my business and what I want the future of Winging It to look like. I also explain why I believe the World Cup is one of the greatest examples of how travel brings people together. From the incredible hospitality shown by Mexican fans to England supporters, to thousands of people from different cultures celebrating side by side, it's a reminder that travel creates understanding, respect and unforgettable memories. Finally, I open up about dealing with kidney stones over the past couple of weeks, what it's taught me about appreciating everyday life, and why I'm looking forward to getting back out into the world once I'm fully recovered. If you've been thinking about booking your next adventure, hopefully this episode gives you the inspiration to finally go for it. In this episode: • Why the World Cup is about far more than football. • The incredible hospitality between travelling fans. • My upcoming trips to Canada, Estonia, Finland, France and French Polynesia. • How I've been rethinking my travel content and podcast plans. • Recovering from kidney stones and what the experience has taught me. • A look ahead to what's coming next on Winging It Travel Podcast. Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 01:38 Why the release schedule has changed 02:30 What the World Cup teaches us about travel 05:10 England, Mexico and the power of football to unite people 07:45 Why travel creates cultural understanding 09:25 My upcoming trips: Toronto, Estonia, Finland and Paris 12:15 French Polynesia, future travel plans and new podcast ideas 13:45 Recovering from kidney stones and appreciating normal life 15:10 Podcast updates, reviews and supporting the show -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| 15 Reasons Why You Should Travel From 15 Previous Guests | 02 juil. 2026 | 00:15:13 | |
This week is a little different. I went back through the Winging It archives and handpicked 15 previous guests, asking each of them the same quick-fire question: "What would you say to someone who's nervous about travelling and why they should go?" Their answers are honest, inspiring, funny and thought-provoking. Whether you're dreaming about your first solo trip, planning a career break, or simply need a reminder of why we explore, these 15 reasons might be exactly what you need. Featuring adventurers, authors, broadcasters, travel creators and industry experts, this episode is the perfect way to kick off the summer. Guests featured: • Rachel Rudwall – https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000728978309 • Kate Wills – https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000567094905 • Nick Cohen – https://open.spotify.com/episode/4MXukvaUPLCQywmXKjSeBD?si=QyZiKYp_Qta1R5XQeArpjQ • Matt & Nat – https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000723386799 • Jonny Bealby – https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000561519170 • Mark Wolters – https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000709892870 • Alun from Tripology – https://voyascape.com/podcast/winging-it/episode/episode-111-travelling-with-alun-from-tripology-the-traveller-s-podcast-69f74f • Matt Dennis – https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000726849183 • John Stucky – https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000731536141 • Emma Thomson – https://voyascape.com/podcast/winging-it/episode/episode-56-travelling-with-emma-thomson-in-sri-lanka-pakistan-iran-zimbabwe-and-bhutan-d486c6 • Melissa Rodway – https://open.spotify.com/episode/0YupR9qd58VoDoqBRbSdOQ?si=v4GVIR2CSYu4VdMNsxDmrA • Pauline Frommer – https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000733638498 • Aaron Millar – https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000716235402 • Dave Seminara – https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000665923550 • Matty Dyas – https://voyascape.com/podcast/winging-it/episode/episode-51-travelling-with-matty-dyas-in-haiti-spain-bangkok-slovakia-moldova-fdc080 Which answer resonated with you the most? Let me know on Instagram @wingingittravelpodcast or send an email to james@wingingitproductions.com If this episode inspires you to finally book that trip, I'd love to hear where you're heading. Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Welcome & why I created this episode 02:30 The first reasons to travel 05:55 Stepping outside your comfort zone 09:25 Building confidence through travel 12:00 How travel changes your perspective 13:00 Life is short—book the trip 14:18 Final thoughts -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Why You Should Stop Waiting for the “Right Time” to Take a Career Break (Taking A Career Break with Katrina Crossover) | 22 juin 2026 | 00:33:12 | |
Why You Should Stop Waiting for the “Right Time” to Take a Career Break (Taking A Career Break with Katrina Crossover) This week on Winging It, I'm sharing a special crossover episode from my other podcast, Taking A Career Break with Katrina McGhee. I really feel our two audiences do crossover, so I am sharing one of our most popular episodes with you. Please check out the rest of the catalogue for everything relating to a career break. Episode 67 - Why You Should Stop Waiting for the “Right Time” to Take a Career Break Shownotes If you've ever dreamed of taking a career break, travelling the world, changing direction, or simply pressing pause on the life you've built, you've probably told yourself the same thing many of us do: "I'll do it when the timing is right." The truth is, there may never be a perfect time. In this episode, Katrina and I dive into one of the biggest reasons people never take a career break: waiting for the mythical "right time." We explore why life will always present obstacles, why fear often disguises itself as practicality, and how delaying your dreams can lead to years of wondering "what if?" Is there ever a right time to take a career break—or are you just waiting forever? From economic uncertainty and job market fears to internal pressure and workplace guilt, they unpack why it always feels like the wrong time—and why that thinking is keeping you stuck. Katrina introduces the concept of PHOBO (Fear of Becoming Obsolete) and explains how this fear shows up both before and during a career break—often preventing people from fully committing to the change they need. You’ll learn why the “perfect moment” doesn’t exist, how your brain is wired to keep you in survival mode, and what it actually takes to create a good enough time to step away and reset your life. If you’ve been telling yourself “maybe next year” or “once things settle down,” this episode will challenge that narrative—and help you take your first real step toward a career break. Taking A Career Break with Katrina McGhee Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/taking-a-career-break-with-katrina-mcghee/id1772602758 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1lRPigXIghYUw82Eqak0mF?si=b956d5b826df4cf1 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TakingaCareerBreakwithKatrina Ready to stop "running on empty" and start running toward a life you actually love? 📞Schedule a call with Katrina - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/freeconsult 🫶🏼Join the BreakSpace community - www.gobreakspace.com 🎁Order Katrina's book (w/ special bonus!) - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction – Why this career break episode matters for travellers 02:08 Winging It Travel Podcast intro 03:47 Welcome to Taking A Career Break with Katrina McGhee 04:39 Why do we keep waiting for the "right time"? 06:34 The fear of becoming obsolete and falling behind 08:13 Is there ever a good economic time to take a break? 10:59 Why hard times don't mean you can't make a career break happen 13:00 James shares his own fears about timing and entrepreneurship 15:27 The "worst time fallacy" explained 17:13 Why guilt keeps people stuck in jobs 18:52 Break Space: Support for your own career break journey 19:28 The target keeps moving – there will always be another excuse 22:58 When has life ever truly felt certain? 24:39 Planning versus endlessly postponing your dreams 26:23 Why the perfect moment doesn't exist 27:15 How fear of falling behind keeps you in survival mode 29:32 Building the bridge before taking the leap 31:05 Stop waiting and start making your career break happen 32:17 Final thoughts and outro -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Why Travel Changes Everything - A Deep Dive with James Hammond on the Island Vacation Travel Podcast | 15 juin 2026 | 01:00:37 | |
Why Travel Changes Everything - A Deep Dive with James Hammond on the Island Vacation Travel Podcast Hello guys! Another guest appearance on another travel podcast today, and this time it is the Island Vacation Travel Podcast with Al Philogene, as we take a deep dive into the impact of travel on our daily lives, as a lifestyle choice and the impact on me personally too. You can watch this episode on YouTube here (please subscribe to Winging It) - https://youtu.be/XWfXoSQ5r7c I loved speaking with Al on his podcast, so please check it out below, too. Enjoy! Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6IKCiUg5sZstUia5vOpK62?si=d9c56d650b754e28 Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/island-vacation-travel-podcast/id1579773196 Website - https://islandvacationpodcast.com/# Island Vacation's Shownotes below. James Hammond shares his unforgettable travel experiences in Bhutan, Japan, and Bolivia, highlighting the importance of practical budgeting and lifestyle centered around exploration. He emphasizes the significance of people, culture, and food in each destination, and provides valuable insights on planning a six-month backpack trip to South America, including budgeting, route planning, and avoiding common travel mistakes. The conversation covers topics related to visa rules and immigration, the difference between hidden gems and tourist-heavy spots, the choice between travel and a traditional career path, financial trade-offs and the balance between freedom and stability, and the impact of COVID-19 on travel. The conversation covers the impact of COVID on travel, the rise in travel costs, the experience of over-tourism, and the financial considerations of long-term travel. It also delves into the importance of cultural familiarity when starting to travel and the need to adapt to changing travel costs and conditions. Takeaways • Unforgettable travel experiences in Bhutan, Japan, and Bolivia • Practical budgeting and lifestyle centered around exploration Visa rules and immigration are important considerations for travelers, and it's essential to research and understand the rules of each country. • Choosing hidden gems over tourist-heavy spots can lead to a more unique and less crowded travel experience. • The decision to prioritize travel over a traditional career path involves a trade-off between stability and freedom, and the pursuit of experiences over material possessions. • The impact of COVID-19 on travel has led to increased costs and a surge in travel to popular destinations, highlighting the importance of exploring hidden gems and off-peak travel periods. COVID has impacted travel costs and led to a rise in expenses. • Cultural familiarity is important when starting to travel, and it's advisable to start small and gradually explore different cultures. • Adapting to changing travel costs and conditions is crucial for long-term travel. Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction & Welcome 02:02 - Meet James Hammond: Building a Travel Lifestyle 02:56 - Top 3 Countries: Bhutan, Japan & Bolivia 05:32 - Memorable Travel Experiences from Around the World 08:14 - Why People Matter More Than Food or Culture 09:12 - Why Everyone Should Travel at Least Once 10:39 - Planning a 6-Month Backpacking Trip 13:41 - Essential Gear Every Long-Term Traveller Needs 15:14 - Travel Budgets: How Much Money Do You Really Need? 17:33 - Route Planning Across South America 19:21 - Biggest Travel Mistakes to Avoid 22:31 - Hidden Gems vs Tourist Hotspots 25:46 - Why I Chose Travel Over a Traditional Career 30:07 - Freedom vs Financial Stability 37:42 - Upcoming Trips: Finland, Estonia & French Polynesia 38:51 - Travel After COVID: What's Changed? 43:21 - My Least Favourite Destination (And Why) 46:55 - Countries Still on My Travel Bucket List 49:19 - How Much Money Do You Need to Travel the World? 54:07 - Advice for First-Time Travellers 58:00 - Where to Find Winging It Travel Podcast & Roaming with Hammo 59:43 - Final Thoughts & Outro -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Wellington Travel Guide: Why I Spent a Year Living in New Zealand's Capital | 08 juin 2026 | 00:30:04 | |
Wellington Travel Guide: Why I Spent a Year Living in New Zealand's Capital Wellington is one of my favourite cities in the world, and in this episode I'm sharing exactly why. I first visited New Zealand's capital in 2013 on the Kiwi Experience and instantly connected with the city. In 2017, when Emma and I arrived in New Zealand on a working holiday visa, we spent weeks road-tripping around both islands before deciding where to settle. I already had my sights set on Wellington, and thankfully Emma fell in love with it too. We ended up spending nearly a year living there, giving us the chance to experience the city far beyond the typical tourist highlights. In this Wellington travel guide, I share the places, experiences and local tips that made the city so special to us. From riding the iconic Wellington Cable Car and exploring Te Papa Museum to walking the waterfront, climbing Mount Victoria and discovering all parts of the city, I cover the attractions that I think every visitor should experience. Of course, no episode about Wellington would be complete without talking about coffee and brunch. This is the city where my love of coffee began, and over the course of 11 months I worked my way through more cafés than I can count. I share my favourite spots for brunch, great coffee, waterfront views and local atmosphere, including some long-time Wellington institutions that I still think about today. I also dive into the practical side of visiting and living in Wellington, including where to stay, the best neighbourhoods to base yourself, transport options, day trips, travelling between the North and South Islands, and what it was like finding work while on a New Zealand working holiday visa. If you're considering moving to Wellington or spending time there as a backpacker, digital nomad or working holiday traveller, there's plenty here for you. Along the way, I share some personal stories from our time living in the city, including working in government ministries, surviving a late-night earthquake, becoming known as the office "serial monster", buying a $1,000 road-trip car and somehow making a profit when it was written off. Whether you're planning your first visit to Wellington, preparing for a New Zealand working holiday, or simply looking for inspiration for your next trip, this episode will give you an honest look at one of the most creative, quirky and liveable cities I've ever experienced. In this episode: • Why Wellington became our home for nearly a year • The best things to do in Wellington • My favourite cafés, brunch spots and coffee roasters • Where to stay and the best neighbourhoods to explore • Working holiday and job-hunting advice • Transport tips and South Island connections • Road-trip recommendations and day trips • Stories from everyday life in New Zealand's capital Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Why Wellington became my favourite city 02:30 Wellington explained: location, culture and first impressions 03:20 The "Serial Monster" work story 05:50 Working holiday jobs and finding work in Wellington 08:10 Best things to do in Wellington 10:50 Waterfront walks, Mount Victoria and local neighbourhoods 12:05 Day trips, sporting events and road trips 13:30 Where to stay in Wellington 15:55 Support the podcast 16:40 Earthquake experiences in Wellington 17:50 Best cafés, brunch spots and coffee in Wellington 22:15 Food markets and eating on a budget 23:15 Wellington travel and transport tips 25:40 Kiwi Experience and travelling New Zealand 26:40 Buying a car and road-tripping New Zealand 28:05 Why Wellington is still one of my favourite cities -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Temporary Locals Podcast Interviews James Hammond I Bhutan | 01 juin 2026 | 01:16:40 | |
Welcome to this special episode where I am on the other side of the mic! I recently joined the Temporary Locals Podcast to share my experience travelling through the fascinating Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. In this conversation, we dive into what makes Bhutan one of the most unique travel destinations on Earth, from its strict tourism policies and sustainable tourism model to its rich Buddhist culture and breathtaking mountain scenery. We discuss the realities of planning a trip to Bhutan, including costs, guided tours, and the famous Sustainable Development Fee. I share stories from hiking to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, staying with a local family in a traditional homestay, attending Bhutanese festivals, exploring the capital Thimphu, and experiencing the country's deep spiritual culture. Along the way, we talk about Bhutanese food, local customs, mountain life, and even the surreal experience of flying home on the same flight as the King and Queen of Bhutan. If you've ever wondered what it's really like to visit one of the world's most exclusive and mysterious countries, this episode is packed with practical advice, cultural insights, and memorable travel stories. Temporary Locals' Shownotes In this episode, Jared and Megan welcome travel vlogger James Hammond to discuss his recent trip to Bhutan. They explore Bhutan's unique culture, geography, and the requirements for visiting this lesser-known Himalayan destination. James shares his experiences hiking to the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery, staying with a local family, interviewing a Lama, nightlife of Thimphu and ending up on the same flight as a King. Please check out Megan and Jared's Temporary Locals Podcast below. I love their style, content and approach to travel. Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/temporary-locals-podcast/id1845249694 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3pQ3gIDSRfd4Ep9zqZ2YoK?si=f4997bb0755b4997 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TemporaryLocalsPodcast Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and why Bhutan captured my attention 03:50 Where Bhutan is located and why I finally decided to visit 05:55 Why Bhutan remains one of the world's most underrated destinations 07:24 How Bhutan's tourism system works, tour requirements, and trip costs 12:00 Previous Himalayan adventures and first impressions of the region 14:00 Flying over Everest and the Himalayas on the way to Bhutan 15:51 Arriving in Bhutan and adjusting to life at altitude 23:23 Working with Bhutan Tourism and creating travel content in the country 26:38 Staying in a Bhutanese homestay and meeting Amma Om 28:30 Milking cows, making cheese, and authentic cultural experiences 33:43 Experiencing Bhutan's colourful festivals and celebrations 37:06 Unexpectedly attending Bhutan's National Day celebrations 38:41 Sharing a flight with the King and Queen of Bhutan 41:09 Hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery and what it's really like 47:44 Why I cancelled a Himalayan camping trek in Haa Valley 51:40 Exploring Thimphu, nightlife, breweries, and local culture 56:38 Buddhism, spirituality, and daily life in Bhutan 59:00 Getting around Bhutan and travelling between Paro and Thimphu 01:01:24 Bhutanese food, chilli cheese dishes, and coffee culture 01:06:25 My top recommendations for a first-time trip to Bhutan 01:12:32 Final thoughts and where to find my travel content -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Gabriola Island Travel Guide: British Columbia’s Peaceful Gulf Island Escape + Camping, Cafes & Beaches | 25 mai 2026 | 00:19:16 | |
Gabriola Island Travel Guide: British Columbia’s Peaceful Gulf Island Escape + Camping, Cafes & Beaches In this immersive episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I head over to beautiful Gabriola Island in British Columbia for a peaceful weekend of camping, beaches, coffee shops, sunsets, ferries, and slow island living. Located just off the coast of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, Gabriola is one of BC’s hidden gems and the perfect nature escape from Vancouver. Gabriola Island is a scenic, tranquil Gulf Island in British Columbia, Canada, located just a 25-minute ferry ride from Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. Known as the "Isle of the Arts," the island is celebrated for its lush forests, rugged coastline, and vibrant community of working artists. This episode is a mix of travel guide, solo storytelling, and immersive soundscape audio as I share exactly how to get to Gabriola Island, ferry costs, campsite information, what to do on the island, where to eat and drink coffee, and why this laid-back Gulf Island completely won me over. From camping at Descanso Bay Regional Park and relaxing at Sandwell Provincial Park to visiting local cafes like Mad Rona’s and Ground Up Cafe, this trip was packed with wholesome moments, nature, and plenty of ocean views. I also share practical travel tips, ferry advice from Horseshoe Bay and Nanaimo, and honest thoughts on whether Gabriola Island is worth visiting. If you’re planning a weekend getaway in British Columbia, looking for Gulf Islands travel inspiration, or simply want an immersive travel podcast experience, this episode is for you. Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Gabriola Island 01:05 – What this episode will include 02:18 – BC Ferries information & travel costs 04:45 – Nanaimo parkrun & pre-island stop 05:40 – Brunch at Black Rabbit in Nanaimo 06:40 – Ferry from Nanaimo to Gabriola Island 07:05 – Gabriola farmers market & alpaca farm 07:50 – Exploring the island hub & Nestors Market 08:20 – Camping at Descanso Bay Regional Park 09:15 – Sunset by the bay & campsite vibes 10:45 – Morning sounds & camping breakfast 11:15 – Coffee stop at Mad Rona’s Cafe 12:05 – Sandwell Provincial Park beach visit 13:05 – Gabriola Sands Provincial Park & The Twins 13:50 – Ground Up Cafe & more island coffee 14:20 – Ravenskill Orchards cidery visit 15:00 – Sunset reflections & island atmosphere 15:40 – Leaving Gabriola Island & ferry tips 16:15 – Final thoughts on Gabriola Island 17:00 – Why Gabriola Island is worth visiting -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Why Waiting Until Retirement To Travel Will Be Your Biggest Regret | 18 mai 2026 | 00:30:21 | |
Why Waiting Until Retirement To Travel Will Be Your Biggest Regret Have you ever said to yourself, “I’ll travel when I retire”? In this solo episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I dive into why I believe waiting until retirement to travel could become one of your biggest regrets. After travelling to more than 75 countries over the last 15 years, I’ve realised that there will always be another excuse not to go — another promotion, another bill, another responsibility, another reason to delay your dreams. In this episode, I explore why so many people postpone travel until “someday,” and why I think that mindset can be dangerous. I talk about the realities of health, time, energy, work culture, fear, and the societal expectations that keep people trapped in routines they don’t actually enjoy. I also share personal stories and reflections from my own travels through places like Central America, Ukraine, Canada, and the USA, alongside lessons I’ve learned from years of backpacking and long-term travel. This is a deep, honest, and motivational episode about creating freedom, prioritising experiences, and making travel part of your life now — not decades into the future. In this episode, I discuss:
If you’ve ever dreamed of taking a career break, backpacking the world, travelling long term, or escaping the traditional 9-5 lifestyle, I hope this episode gives you the motivation to stop waiting and start planning your next adventure. Need help taking a break to travel? Check out my other podcast, Taking A Career Break with Katrina McGhee below. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TakingaCareerBreakwithKatrina Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/taking-a-career-break-with-katrina-mcghee/id1772602758 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1lRPigXIghYUw82Eqak0mF?si=30ab153333794e19 Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Why “I’ll Travel When I Retire” is dangerous 02:23 – Introduction to the podcast 04:03 – Reason #1: Retirement and life are never guaranteed 06:30 – Why health and energy matter for travel 07:55 – The employee mindset and time freedom 10:18 – Why geopolitics can change travel forever 12:30 – Ukraine, Central America & travelling while you can 13:47 – The danger of the “someday” mentality 15:55 – Quick podcast break & ways to support the show 16:39 – Reason #5: Memories are worth more than possessions 18:55 – Why travel memories stay with you forever 20:28 – Are jobs really worth sacrificing your life for? 23:20 – How travel improves confidence and worldview 24:45 – The value of career breaks and sabbaticals 26:05 – Doing things outside your comfort zone 26:58 – Alex Garland quote from The Beach 27:45 – Why millennials should travel now, not later 28:40 – Final thoughts and listener takeaway 29:27 – Outro -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| IMMERSIVE - The Soundscapes of Oaxaca, Mexico - Colourful Streets, The Zocalo, Busy Markets + A Local Food Tour | 11 mai 2026 | 00:19:07 | |
IMMERSIVE - The Soundscapes of Oaxaca, Mexico - Colourful Streets, The Zocalo, Busy Markets + A Local Food Tour Oaxaca, Mexico, had been on my travel list for years, and in 2024, I finally got the chance to experience it for myself. In this immersive soundscape episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you with me through the colourful streets, lively markets, rooftop cafés and buzzing Zócalo of one of the most atmospheric cities I’ve ever visited. This episode is all about slowing down and soaking in the vibe of Oaxaca through sound, food and real-time reactions. You’ll hear church bells echo through courtyards, market vendors shouting across packed stalls, sizzling street food being cooked fresh in front of me and the energy of locals and travellers filling the city streets from morning until night. I wander through the historic centre trying incredible coffee, exploring famous landmarks like the Oaxaca Cathedral and Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, before diving headfirst into Oaxaca’s legendary food scene. From tlayudas and mole to mezcal tastings and local market snacks, this city absolutely lived up to every bit of hype I had built up in my head over the years. Honestly, this became one of my favourite cities I visited during my Central America and Mexico trip. The colours felt brighter, the food tasted richer and the atmosphere was unlike anywhere else I’ve travelled before. Oaxaca gave me that rare feeling where a destination genuinely exceeds your expectations. So put your headphones in and come walk the streets of Oaxaca with me. 🎙️ In this episode:
Support Winging It Travel Podcast If you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Arriving in Oaxaca, Mexico 02:13 – Hostel vibes and first impressions 03:57 – Coffee and breakfast at Mas Cafe 06:04 – Experiencing the Oaxaca Zócalo 06:58 – Trying traditional tlayudas 08:10 – Walking the colourful streets of Oaxaca 08:31 – Oaxaca Cathedral explained 09:03 – Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán 10:15 – Why Oaxaca’s streets feel so unique 11:17 – Coffee stop at Boulenc 11:55 – Mercado Benito Juárez food tour begins 12:30 – Trying ceviche and dried insects 13:49 – Rosa de Jamaica tasting 14:24 – Mezcal tasting in Oaxaca 14:45 – Visiting a local chocolate factory 15:10 – Trying traditional Oaxacan mole 16:01 – Wandering Oaxaca at night 16:25 – Why Oaxaca exceeded every expectation 17:14 – Final reflections on the city 18:30 – Outro -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| 10 EPIC Campervan Road Trips We’re Planning Around the World | 04 mai 2026 | 00:28:24 | |
10 EPIC Campervan Road Trips We’re Planning Around the World In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m sharing 10 incredible campervan road trips that are firmly on our bucket list for the next decade. From the dramatic fjords of Norway and the remote highways of Northern Canada to the deserts of Utah, the coastline of Western Australia, and even a possible campervan adventure across Japan — these are the road trips we genuinely cannot stop thinking about. If you love freedom, open roads, wild camping, national parks, tiny coastal towns, and the idea of waking up somewhere completely different every morning, this episode is for you. I talk through why each route stands out, the best time of year to go, how long you’d realistically need, and what makes these journeys unforgettable. Whether you’re planning your own campervan adventure or just dreaming of future travels, this episode should give you plenty of inspiration. Expect epic scenery, practical road trip thoughts, and a lot of wanderlust. Road trips featured include Norway, Western Australia, Arctic Canada, Newfoundland & Labrador, Scotland’s NC500, Utah’s Mighty Five, Iceland, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, South Africa to Namibia, and Japan by campervan. If you enjoy the episode, please leave a 5-star review on your podcast app and share it with someone who loves travel and adventure. Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & why campervan road trips feel like ultimate freedom 02:49 – Norway: Oslo to the Lofoten Islands 05:55 – Western Australia: Esperance to Darwin 08:52 – Vancouver to Tuktoyaktuk via the Dempster Highway 11:01 – Labrador Highway & Newfoundland Loop 14:21 – Scotland’s NC500 & the Scottish Highlands 16:48 – Utah’s Mighty Five & Valley of the Gods 18:53 – Iceland Ring Road & Golden Circle 21:05 – Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way 22:53 – South Africa to Namibia road trip dreams 24:29 – Japan by campervan? The wildcard road trip 26:18 – Final reflections on slow travel & future road trip plans 27:30 – Outro & support the podcast -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Ep 193 w/ Amanda Kendle - Why We Shouldn't Be Travelling to Antarctica, Being A Thoughtful Traveller & The Cruel Reality of Wildlife Tourism | 27 avr. 2026 | 01:25:11 | |
Ep 193 w/ Amanda Kendle - Should You Travel to Antarctica? Ethical Travel & The Cruel Reality of Wildlife Tourism In this thought-provoking episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m joined by Amanda Kendle from The Thoughtful Travel Podcast to unpack two of the most controversial topics in modern travel: Antarctica tourism and wildlife experiences. We dive deep into the ethical dilemma of visiting one of the most fragile places on Earth. With Antarctica losing billions of tons of ice every year and tourism numbers rising fast, is it still justifiable to go? Or are we contributing to the very destruction we claim to care about? Then we shift to wildlife tourism—an industry many travellers engage with without fully understanding the consequences. From elephant riding in Thailand to tiger encounters and zoo ethics, we explore what’s really happening behind the scenes and how travel has evolved over the years. This isn’t about guilt—it’s about awareness. We both reflect honestly on our own past travel experiences, mistakes included, and discuss how travellers can make better, more responsible choices moving forward. If you’ve ever questioned the impact of your travels, this episode will challenge your perspective and help you think more critically about how you explore the world. Amanda Kendle/The Thoughtful Travel Podcast Website - https://www.notaballerina.com Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-thoughtful-travel-podcast/id1269489189 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3AwRGIPRytKa9Txnz1cGBK?si=644319aec60f4f92 Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & welcome to Amanda Kendle 02:15 – Perth vs Vancouver: travel memories & lifestyle chat 06:45 – Topic 1: Should we travel to Antarctica? 09:50 – Shocking facts about Antarctica’s ice loss 11:15 – Tourism boom & rising visitor numbers 12:30 – The real cost of visiting Antarctica 14:30 – Carbon footprint & environmental impact explained 17:05 – Why even scientists are choosing not to return 20:00 – Can tourism ever be justified in Antarctica? 23:00 – The problem with regulation & greenwashing 25:20 – Final thoughts: would we go? 26:10 – Topic 2: Wildlife tourism ethics 26:30 – Personal stories: elephant rides & tiger encounters 31:00 – The brutal reality behind elephant tourism 34:50 – How wildlife tourism has evolved (and still needs to change) 36:00 – Seeing animals in the wild vs captivity 38:00 – Cultural differences & lack of awareness globally 39:30 – Elephant riding bans & progress in Southeast Asia 41:00 – Sanctuaries vs exploitation: what’s real? 43:00 – Are zoos ethical? The grey areas explained 46:10 – Can wildlife tourism ever be responsible? 49:30 – Safari tourism vs trophy hunting debate 51:20 – What should be banned immediately? 54:00 – Final reflections on ethical travel choices -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| The Songs That Build My Wanderlust & Invoke Happy Travel Memories | 20 avr. 2026 | 00:19:52 | |
What if a song could take you somewhere you've never been? Or transport you straight back to a beach, a bus ride, or an open road on the other side of the world? In this solo episode I'm sharing the songs that have shaped my travel life — from the early days of dreaming about the world from my bedroom, through my first big adventure in 2013, all the way to life on the road today. Some of these songs painted pictures of places before I'd ever set foot there. Others are locked forever to a specific moment — a sweaty dance floor in Thailand, a hungover bus ride through New Zealand, a road trip across Canada that changed everything. Seven songs. A lifetime of wanderlust. And one or two choices that might genuinely surprise you. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or still dreaming of that first big trip, this one might just make you want to book a flight, hire a campervan and disappear. 🎵 Matt Monro 🎵 Kid Francescoli 🎵 David Guetta feat. Sia 🎵 Jim Reeves 🎵 Sérgio Mendes 🎵 Percy Faith 🎵 Tiësto What songs do this for you? Drop me a message — I'd love to know. 📍 Next solo episode: 10 Campervan Road Trips on the Winging It Bucket List Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro: Songs That Invoke Travel Memories 01:05 – Why Music & Travel Are Deeply Connected 02:35 – Song #1: On Days Like These – The Italian Job & The Alps Inspiration 04:20 – Song #2: Moon (And It Went Like) – Ultimate Road Trip Anthem 06:05 – Song #3: Titanium – Southeast Asia Party Memories (2013) 07:55 – Bonus Mentions: Swedish House Mafia & Avicii 08:35 – Song #4: Welcome to My World – Early Travel Dreams & Tropical Escapes 10:15 – Song #5: Mas Que Nada – Australia Mine Job & Brazil World Cup Motivation 12:20 – Song #6: Theme from A Summer Place – Dreaming of Paradise & Cook Islands 14:05 – Song #7: Elements of Life – New Zealand Bus Journeys & Backpacker Life 15:25 – Bonus: XFM Podcast – Road Tripping New Zealand Laughs 16:10 – Reflections: Road Trips, Beaches & Travel Themes 17:20 – Why “Moon” Is My Defining Travel Song 18:15 – Outro + Next Episode (Future Road Trips List) 19:10 – Final Outro & Call to Action -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| From Norwich to Vancouver: A Sheltered Upbringing, Having A Travel Purpose & A Need To Learn More | 13 avr. 2026 | 00:48:01 | |
In this deeply personal solo episode, I take you through my full travel journey—from growing up in Norwich with no real concept of travel, to building a life around it in Vancouver and around the world. This isn’t just a story about where I’ve been—it’s about how my mindset around travel has completely evolved over time. From partying through Southeast Asia in my early 20s, to seeking culture, connection, and purpose in my 30s… this episode breaks down the different phases of travel, what changed, and why I now see travel as a long-term lifestyle rather than a short-term escape. I also share honest reflections on burnout, money, building a travel-focused career, and what the future of travel looks like for me. If you’ve ever wondered how travel fits into your life long-term—or how your relationship with it might change over time—this one’s for you. To finish, I want to share with you, the audience, an episode where you get to know me more. I have been doing this for five years, and I believe sharing more personal details will help build a tighter Winging It community. I hope you enjoy the episode and that it inspires you to travel for the first time or to dream about making it a lifestyle. Drop me a comment on your thoughts, too. Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Why I’m sharing this story 02:00 Growing up in Norwich & early curiosity about the world 05:30 School trips & no real travel mindset yet 08:00 Moving to London & first exposure to diversity 09:30 Australia 2010 – the trip that changed everything 11:30 The moment I decided to travel long-term 12:50 Ukraine road trip & first taste of raw travel 14:30 Planning the 2013 backpacking trip 15:20 Leaving the UK & heading into the unknown 17:00 First culture shock in Bangkok 18:30 Southeast Asia – party travel & backpacker life 20:00 Australia – working life & maturing 22:30 Smartphones & how travel started to change 23:30 South America solo travel & shift to culture 25:00 Realising travel had evolved for me 26:00 India 2016 – second major culture shock 27:30 Meeting Emma & planning long-term travel 28:30 Health scare & motivation to live fully 29:30 15 months of travel as a couple 31:00 New Zealand, Cook Islands & finding “paradise” 32:00 Turning 30 mindset shift & continuing travel 32:30 Moving to Canada & new chapter 33:00 COVID & travel uncertainty 34:30 Starting the podcast during lockdown 35:00 Planning the 1-year world trip 36:00 Travel becomes a lifestyle, not a phase 37:00 The reality of trying to make money while travelling 38:00 Returning to work & rebuilding 39:30 How I see travel now 40:00 The future: combining work & travel 41:00 Why having a base matters 41:50 Upcoming trips & current lifestyle 42:00 Travel in my late 30s vs early 20s 43:00 Advice for travellers (young & older) 44:00 Final reflections on travel & life 45:00 Personal facts & closing thoughts 46:30 Where to find me & support the podcast -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| How to Spend 3 Days in Victoria, British Columbia - The Ultimate Walkable Travel Guide | 07 avr. 2026 | 00:21:47 | |
How to Spend 3 Days in Victoria, BC | Ultimate Walkable Travel Guide In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you through a full 4-night-3-day, no-car travel guide to Victoria, BC—perfect for a long weekend on Vancouver Island. From ferry mishaps and transport hacks to standout brunch spots, coffee culture, and celiac-friendly eats, this is a practical, real-world itinerary you can actually follow. You’ll hear exactly how we navigated the city on foot and public transport, including costs, timing, and what’s truly worth your time. We explore cultural highlights like the Royal BC Museum, wander through Chinatown Victoria—the oldest in Canada—and walk the iconic Fan Tan Alley. Expect plenty of coffee stops, coastal walks, and honest takes on popular spots. This guide is ideal for budget travellers, backpackers, and anyone visiting Victoria without a car, with loads of tips to help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of your time. Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro + what to expect 02:00 – Ferry chaos + getting to Victoria 04:20 – Arrival + hotel + getting around 05:00 – Day 1: Brunch, coffee & Royal BC Museum 08:50 – Chinatown, Fan Tan Alley & harbour walk 10:00 – Dinner: gluten-free Chinese spot 10:30 – Day 2: Parkrun + brunch spots 12:00 – Walking the city + coffee + donuts 13:30 – Dinner: standout Mexican food 14:40 – Day 3: Cafés, bakeries & local favourites 15:20 – Mile Zero + Terry Fox story 16:30 – Public transport tips + pub stop 17:40 – Trendy cafés + harbour drinks 18:50 – Vegan/gluten-free dinner 19:20 – Final morning walk + views 20:00 – Travel wrap-up + heading home 20:10 – Final thoughts -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| REVISITED IN 2026 - Episode 2 - One Week In Lub D, Bangkok, Thailand - Thoughts From My Trip To Bangkok In 2025 vs 2013 Experience | 30 mars 2026 | 01:06:53 | |
REVISITING Episode 2 - One Week In Lub D, Bangkok, Thailand. Bangkok Then vs My Trip in December 2025 In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I go back to where it all began—Bangkok, Thailand. Originally recorded as Episode 2 in 2021, this was my first real taste of long-term travel back in 2013, stepping into Southeast Asia with no expectations, no real plan, and honestly, no idea what I was getting myself into. Fast forward to 2025, I’ve returned to Bangkok after over a decade of travel experience, and everything feels different—yet strangely familiar. In this revisit, I break down eight defining moments from that original trip, from hostel life and street food discoveries to tuk-tuk scams, cultural landmarks, and some uncomfortable travel lessons that shaped how I explore the world today. This episode is a mix of nostalgia, honest reflection, and practical insight for anyone planning their first trip to Bangkok—or looking back on how travel has changed over time. You’ll hear what Bangkok was like before smartphones dominated travel, how the backpacker scene has evolved, and whether the city's chaos, charm, and magic still holds up in 2025. Bangkok always holds a special place in my heart, thanks to the truly breathtaking experiences I had there and, more importantly, to the great people I met. My trip in 2025 was a completely different type of trip, but I still loved visiting this great city, which I call my favourite, and it still is that for sure! A note to add, this is not a PC episode from 2021, so there are some grim stories and terms in there, but this is to share all of my experiences as they happened in 2013. I didn't want to sugarcoat the experience. I also cringe at the older episodes of Winging It and have done my best to clean up the audio and take out the gaps but it is all part of the podcasting journey. Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Revisiting Bangkok: A Journey Through Time 02:55 The Allure of Lub D Hostel 05:51 Culinary Adventures: Thai Food and Street Culture 09:08 Navigating Bangkok: Tuk Tuk Scams and Transportation 12:06 Social Connections: Meeting Fellow Travellers 14:57 The Grand Palace Experience: A Cultural Exploration 33:17 Exploring Bangkok's Iconic Landmarks 36:10 The Controversial Tiger Reserve Experience 46:58 Nightlife Adventures on Khao San Road 54:13 A Classy Farewell at the Hangover Hotel 01:00:55 Reflections on Bangkok and Future Travels -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| IMMERSIVE Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan: A Typical Day Exploring In Bhutan + Trip Summary 🇧🇹 | 23 mars 2026 | 00:24:12 | |
What does a day in Bhutan actually sound like? In this immersive episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you through a full day exploring the Kingdom of Bhutan—from peaceful sunrise views over Thimphu to the powerful sounds of monks in morning ritual, vibrant Himalayan festivals, and unforgettable Bhutanese cuisine. You’ll experience Bhutan through raw, unfiltered audio: chanting monks at Gangtey Monastery, sizzling local dishes, bustling festival energy, and the quiet calm of a sunset hike through the valleys. This is more than a travel episode—it’s a sensory journey into one of the most unique and culturally rich countries in the world. If you’re planning a Bhutan trip, curious about Bhutanese culture, or just want to escape through sound, this episode will transport you straight into the heart of the Himalayas. Expect monasteries, mountains, local food, art, culture, and real on-the-ground reactions throughout. Check out my previous Bhutan episodes Episode 1 Interview with Ugyen Rinzin - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563 Episode 2 - IMMERSIVE Hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502 Episode 3 - Days 1-3 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000745691316 Episode 4 - Interview with a female monk - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000747763604 Episode 5 - IMMERSIVE Day in Bhutan - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000748856300 Episode 6 - Ama Om Homestay Interview - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000750963609 Episode 7 - Days 4-7 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000752831510 Episode 8 - My Bhutan Travel Guide: Days 8-11 - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000753952128 🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be. Thanks & CreditsThis entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is what I’ll showcase throughout this series. Thanks so much, guys! Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible. Breathe Bhutan Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/ Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Intro – Monk rituals & what this episode is all about 00:46 Podcast intro & what to expect 02:20 Sunrise walk over Thimphu 02:48 Traditional Bhutanese breakfast & tea with a lama 03:35 Heading to witness monks’ final ritual of the year 04:43 Inside the monastery – chanting, drums & atmosphere 06:14 Bhutanese coffee culture at Mountain Café 07:00 Arrival at Druk Wangyal Festival 08:02 Festival in full swing – music, colour & culture 10:30 Why festivals in Bhutan are a must-do 11:01 Lunch – traditional Bhutanese dishes explained 13:08 Visit to Chokhi Traditional Art School 15:29 Learning Bhutanese art & cultural traditions 16:31 Trying local skills – cooking & butter tea 17:28 Art experience & local crafts 18:29 Sunset hike through Bhutanese landscape 19:21 Evening views over the valley 19:59 Traditional Bhutanese dinner feast 21:19 Reflections on Bhutanese people & hospitality 22:00 Why tourism matters in Bhutan 23:40 Outro – reflections & call to action -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Where to Stay in Vancouver for the World Cup 2026: 8 Best Areas Near BC Place (A Local’s Guide) | 16 mars 2026 | 00:24:31 | |
Planning to visit Vancouver for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and wondering where to stay? In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I share a local’s guide to the 8 best areas to base yourself during the tournament. Having lived in Vancouver for nearly seven years, I break down the pros, cons, transport links, and overall vibe of each neighbourhood so you can decide which one suits your travel style. From beach neighbourhoods like Kitsilano and the relaxed waterfront of Olympic Village, to nightlife hubs like Yaletown and historic Gastown, you’ll get a clear idea of where to stay depending on what kind of World Cup trip you want. I also cover scenic options across the water like North Vancouver and West Vancouver, perfect if you want mountain views, beaches, and a quieter base while still being able to reach the games at BC Place. Along the way I share local transport tips, accommodation ideas, neighbourhood highlights, and activities you shouldn’t miss in each area. Whether you're visiting for the World Cup or planning a future trip, this episode will help you choose the best neighbourhood to stay in Vancouver. Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Intro – Where to Stay in Vancouver for the World Cup 00:40 Podcast intro 02:05 Overview of BC Place and its location 03:25 West End – beaches, Stanley Park access, and quiet city living 05:48 Kitsilano – beach lifestyle, cafes, and local Vancouver vibe 08:07 Yaletown – nightlife, restaurants, and walking distance to the stadium 10:30 Olympic Village & Mount Pleasant – waterfront walks and breweries 12:48 West Vancouver – Park Royal & Ambleside for scenic views and quieter stays 14:45 North Vancouver – Lower Lonsdale, breweries, and SeaBus access 16:45 Gastown – historic charm and nightlife 17:32 Downtown Vancouver – convenience and hotel options 19:00 Vancouver transport, prices, and travel tips 20:55 Activities to do in each neighbourhood 24:30 Final thoughts on visiting Vancouver for the World Cup -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan: My Bhutan Travel Guide: Days 8-11, Travelling Solo, Flight to Bangkok With The Royal Family, Costs & Final Thoughts | 09 mars 2026 | 00:32:16 | |
Bhutan Travel Guide: Days 8-11, Travelling Solo, Flight To Bangkok With The Royal Family, Costs & Final Thoughts In this penultimate episode of my Bhutan Series on Winging It, I wrap up my 11-day trip to Bhutan and share my final experiences exploring Thimphu and Paro, plus my biggest takeaways from travelling through one of the most fascinating countries in the world. After originally planning a trek in the Haa Valley, I changed my itinerary and spent my final days wandering Bhutan’s capital Thimphu, experiencing Bhutan’s National Day celebrations, visiting local cafés, exploring markets, and eventually heading to Paro for my final night before flying back to Bangkok. I also give an idea of what budget day-to-day life is like when travelling solo in Bhutan. Along the way I stayed in luxury glamping tents in hills of Paro, met incredible locals, and had an unexpected moment on my flight to Bangkok when I discovered the King and Queen of Bhutan were on the same plane. I managed to speak to one of their closest advisors during the flight, which was a very interesting chat indeed! To wrap up the series, I also share my favourite experiences in Bhutan, practical Bhutan travel tips, what it actually costs to visit Bhutan, and advice for anyone planning their own trip to the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon. If you're wondering how to visit Bhutan, what an itinerary looks like, or whether Bhutan is worth visiting, this episode brings together everything I learned from my time there. Check out my previous Bhutan episodes Episode 1 Interview with Ugyen Rinzin - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563 Episode 2 - IMMERSIVE Hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502 Episode 3 - Days 1-3 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000745691316 Episode 4 - Interview with a female monk - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000747763604 Episode 5 - IMMERSIVE Day in Bhutan - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000748856300 Episode 6 - Ama Om Homestay Interview - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000750963609 Episode 7 - Days 4-7 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000752831510 🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be. This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series. Thanks & CreditsHuge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible. Breathe Bhutan Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/ Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Intro to the Bhutan trip recap (Days 8–11) 01:45 Why I cancelled the Haa Valley trek 03:45 Returning to Thimphu and saying goodbye to my guides 06:00 Exploring Thimphu solo for the first time 07:30 Coffee at Ambient Café 08:45 Bhutan National Day celebrations at the National Stadium 10:00 Centenary Farmers Market and meeting locals at Hope Café 11:30 Discovering Bhutan’s only coffee roastery 12:45 Traveling from Thimphu to Paro 13:30 Staying at Ten Zingaling luxury glamping tents 14:35 Sunrise breakfast in the Himalayas 16:00 Exploring Paro and souvenir shopping 17:30 Dinner with locals at Himalayan Kitchen 19:00 Final morning in Paro 19:20 The surprise: flying with the King and Queen of Bhutan 22:20 My top experiences in Bhutan 23:30 Bhutan food, coffee and culture 24:15 Why Breathe Bhutan made the trip special 25:30 The cost of traveling to Bhutan explained 27:30 Flights to Bhutan and practical travel tips 28:30 Best coffee, souvenirs and cultural spots in Bhutan 29:30 When to visit Bhutan and weather tips 30:00 Final reflections on my Bhutan trip -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With | |||
| Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan: Days 4–7 - Druk Wangyal Festival, Punakha Dzong + Phobjikha Valley | 03 mars 2026 | 00:23:42 | |
Bhutan Itinerary Days 4–7: Druk Wangyel Festival, Punakha Dzong + Phobjikha Valley In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I continue my Bhutan travel series covering Days 4–7 of my guided journey through one of the most unique and spiritual countries in the world. These were some of the most immersive days of the entire trip. It begins high in the mountains at the Druk Wangyel Festival, held annually at Dochula Pass. Surrounded by 108 chortens and Himalayan peaks, this patriotic festival honours Bhutan’s Fourth King and celebrates peace, unity, and national identity. Wearing the traditional Bhutanese gho, I experienced mass dances, military performances, storytelling, and a powerful display of modern Bhutanese culture. From there, we descend into the warmer Punakha Valley — home to the breathtaking Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most important historical and spiritual landmarks. Built in 1637 at the meeting point of two rivers, this former capital remains a living monastery and royal ceremonial site — and yes, it’s where Bhutan’s King and Queen were married. I also hike to the hilltop temple Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, walk through rural villages to reach the famous fertility temple Chimi Lhakhang, and cross the swaying Punakha Suspension Bridge with dramatic valley views below. One of the most special experiences? Staying in a traditional Bhutanese homestay — helping churn butter, cooking local dishes, and learning about family history in a farmhouse perched above the valley. The journey then takes me east into the stunning Phobjikha Valley, often called the “Switzerland of Bhutan” for its wide glacial landscape and alpine feel. Here, I overnight at Gangtey Monastery, witness an emotional end-of-year monk ceremony, and experience Bhutan’s spiritual depth in complete silence — and freezing temperatures. Check out my previous Bhutan episodes Episode 1 Interview with Ugyen Rinzin - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563 Episode 2 - IMMERSIVE Hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502 Episode 3 - Days 1-3 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000745691316 Episode 4 - Interview with a female monk - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000747763604 Episode 5 - IMMERSIVE Day in Bhutan - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000748856300 Episode 6 - Ama Om Homestay Interview - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000750963609 🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be. This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series. Thanks & CreditsHuge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible. Breathe Bhutan Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/ Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro & overview of Bhutan Days 4–7 02:00 – Wearing the traditional Bhutanese gho 03:45 – Druk Wangyel Festival at Dochula Pass 07:00 – Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple) walk through villages 09:30 – Sunset views over Punakha Dzong 11:30 – Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten 14:30 – Exploring Punakha Dzong (Bhutan’s former capital) 16:30 – Traditional Bhutan homestay experience 17:45 – Crossing the Punakha Suspension Bridge 18:30 – Visiting a Bhutanese nunnery 19:30 – Arriving in Phobjikha Valley (Switzerland of Bhutan) 20:30 – Overnight stay at Gangtey Monastery 21:45 – Witnessing a powerful monk ceremony 22:30 – Reflections & cancelling the winter trek -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - | |||
| Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan: A Traditional Homestay in Bhutan - Interview with the owner Ama Om (Ama Om's Homestay) | 23 févr. 2026 | 00:29:27 | |
What is it really like to stay in a traditional homestay in Bhutan? In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m coming to you from rural Bhutan, where I sit down with Ama Om — the owner of a traditional Bhutanese homestay located in a small village outside Punakha. With the help of a translator, Ama Om shares her life story and what it truly means to welcome travellers into her home. Ama Om has been hosting guests for over a decade, offering far more than just accommodation. We talk about daily village life in Bhutan, balancing farming with tourism, cooking traditional food, caring for animals, and preserving a way of life that’s slowly disappearing due to modernisation. This conversation explores Bhutanese Buddhist beliefs, especially the idea of karmic connections — the belief that people don’t arrive in our lives by accident. Ama Om explains why hosting guests brings her so much joy and why she believes homestays offer the most authentic way to experience Bhutanese culture. You’ll also hear about:
You might notice my voice is a little rough in this episode — I was battling a cough and cold during the recording — but this story was far too special not to share. If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan, curious about authentic travel experiences, or interested in staying in a traditional homestay, this episode offers a rare and honest insight into rural Bhutanese life and the people who make it unforgettable. 🔗 More information about Ama Om’s Homestay You’ll find links to the homestay below in the show notes. If you’d like to add this experience to your Bhutan itinerary, booking through Breathe Bhutan and requesting Ama Om’s homestay is the best way to do it. Ama Om's Homestay https://www.instagram.com/amaoms_homestay/?hl=en https://www.bhutanhimalaya.com/lodges-and-accommodations/ama-om's-homestay Check out my previous Bhutan episodes Episode 1 Interview with Ugyen Rinzin - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563 Episode 2 - IMMERSIVE Hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502 Episode 3 - Days 1-3 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000745691316 Episode 4 - Interview with a female monk - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000747763604 Episode 5 - IMMERSIVE Day in Bhutan - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000748856300 🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be. This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series. Thanks & CreditsHuge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible. Breathe Bhutan Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/ Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction & setting the scene in rural Bhutan 01:05 – Who is Ama Om? The story behind the homestay 02:10 – Life beyond accommodation: family, farming, food & faith 03:40 – Karmic connections & why hosting guests brings Ama Om joy 05:00 – Daily life in a Bhutanese village 06:50 – Helping out in a homestay: cooking, curiosity & cultural exchange 09:10 – Why homestays matter for local livelihoods in Bhutan 10:55 – Farming life: cows, orchards, rice fields & self-sufficiency 12:40 – Family life: children, grandchildren & life between village and city 14:45 – Traditional Bhutanese cooking & learning from her grandmother 18:30 – Why Ama Om believes people should visit Bhutan 20:45 – Why guests should stay at her homestay specifically 22:55 – Authentic Bhutan vs modern cities like Thimphu & Paro 25:10 – Preserving traditional life: hot stone baths, farming & food 26:55 – Gratitude, goodbyes & the impact of tourism 28:30 – Final reflections & closing thoughts -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - | |||
| My 10 Lowest Moments On My Travels So Far | 16 févr. 2026 | 00:30:11 | |
My Top 10 Lowest Moments On My Travels So Far Travel isn’t always sunsets, summit views, and perfect Instagram moments — and in this episode, I get honest about the other side of life on the road. Before diving in, I acknowledge just how much of a privilege travel is, especially in a world where many people face conflict, instability, and restrictions on movement. This episode isn’t about criticising countries, cultures, or places — it’s about the very human moments that unfold while traveling. From getting violently sick at sacred sites, to terrifying border crossings, brutal overnight bus rides, running out of money abroad, and nearly dehydrating in the desert, I share ten of the lowest — and often unintentionally funny — moments I’ve experienced so far. Some of these stories are uncomfortable, some are reflective, and others are light-hearted in hindsight. But all of them highlight a truth we don’t talk about enough: travel doesn’t always go to plan, and sometimes the hardest moments become the best stories later on. If you’ve ever had a trip go sideways, questioned why you’re doing this at all, or found yourself laughing through the chaos — this one’s for you. Let me know what your lowest moments have been. ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Travel is a privilege & episode introduction 01:05 – What Winging It Travel Podcast is all about 02:30 – Why this episode isn’t about judging places or cultures 03:00 – #1: Bodh Gaya, India – food poisoning at a sacred site 05:15 – #2: Vanuatu flight cancellation & the “prison hotel” 09:00 – #3: Being seriously ill in India & Laos 10:15 – #4: Chitwan National Park, Nepal – promised wildlife, saw nothing 11:40 – #5: Mount Fuji, Mount Kinabalu & hikes with zero views 15:05 – Listener support & podcast housekeeping break 15:55 – #6: Laos–Thailand border scam with guns involved 17:30 – #7: 30-hour bus rides from Vietnam to Laos 18:55 – #8: Near dehydration in the Atacama Desert 20:30 – #9: Running out of money in Australia 22:45 – #10: Giant ants while wild camping in Oman 24:45 – Bonus: Brutal mine-site kitchen work on a work permit 29:20 – Final reflections & listener call-to-action -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| IMMERSIVE - Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan: A Day in Bhutan - The Druk Wangyel Festival, Traditional Villages and Chimi Lhakhang Temple | 09 févr. 2026 | 00:22:11 | |
In this episode, I take you along for one unforgettable day in Bhutan that perfectly captures the country’s culture, spirituality, and everyday life. The day begins dressed in a traditional gho before heading high into the Himalayas for the Druk Wangyel Festival at Dochula Pass. With clear skies, snow-capped peaks in the background, and vibrant performances by the Royal Bhutan Army, this festival is one of Bhutan’s most visually striking and patriotic celebrations. After the festival, we descend into the Punakha Valley, stopping for lunch before setting off on a walk through authentic Bhutanese countryside. This walk takes us through Sopsokha Village and Teopronghu Village, passing rice paddies, prayer flags, family homes, and locals going about their daily lives — offering a real glimpse into rural Bhutan away from the usual tourist trail. The walk ends at Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, dedicated to the legendary Drukpa Kunley, the “Divine Madman.” While often misunderstood for its playful symbolism, this sacred site is deeply spiritual and an important place of faith for Bhutanese people, set against stunning views of the Punakha Valley. To end the day, I arrive at a hilltop hotel overlooking the Punakha Dzong, watching it transition from daylight to night — a quiet, reflective moment after a day full of colour, culture, and connection. This episode blends immersive sounds, personal reflections, and on-the-ground experiences to give you a true sense of what a day in Bhutan feels like — from high-altitude festivals to peaceful village life. Check out my previous Bhutan episodes Episode 1 Interview with Ugyen Rinzin - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563 Episode 2 - IMMERSIVE Hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502 Episode 3 - Days 1-3 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000745691316 Episode 4 - Interview with a female monk - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000747763604 🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be. This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series. Thanks & CreditsHuge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible. Breathe Bhutan Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/ 🎧 Next up: The next episode will be me experiencing a traditional homestay in Bhutan and visiting the Punakha Zhong. Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction & setting the scene for Day 4 in Bhutan 03:10 – Wearing the traditional gho & heading to Dochula Pass 06:00 – Druk Wangyel Festival: dances, symbolism & Himalayan views 11:40 – Walking through Sopsokha & Teopronghu Villages to Chimi Lhakhang 16:45 – Chimi Temple, Punakha Valley views & ending the day overlooking Punakha Dzong -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - | |||
| Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan - Interview with a Nun at Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery - Life as a Buddhist Nun in Modern Bhutan | 02 févr. 2026 | 00:11:34 | |
Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan Interview with Nun at Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery - Life as a Buddhist Nun in Modern Bhutan In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, an all-female Buddhist nunnery located above the Punakha Valley in Bhutan. This episode offers a rare look into the lives of Buddhist nuns and the important role this nunnery plays in supporting women within Bhutan’s monastic system. Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery was established to provide both religious and practical education to nuns from across Bhutan, many of whom come from rural and remote regions. Alongside intensive training in Buddhist philosophy, meditation, chanting, and ritual practices, the nuns also study English, computer skills, and vocational crafts—helping prepare them for life both within and beyond the monastery. During my visit, the nunnery was preparing for final examinations, offering a unique insight into the academic structure of monastic life. You’ll also hear immersive background sounds from the nunnery itself, adding context to the daily rhythm of study, prayer, and discipline. Following the introduction, I share a 10-minute interview with one of the resident nuns, conducted in English. In our conversation, she explains her daily routine, what she has studied over the years, her perspective on Buddhism in Bhutan, and what life looks like after completing the nine-year monastic education. She also shares why visitors should take the time to visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and one key idea from Buddhism that she believes everyone should understand. This episode offers a thoughtful, grounded look at female monastic life in modern Bhutan, blending spiritual insight with real-world structure and purpose. 🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be. This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series. 🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be. This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series. Thanks & CreditsHuge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible. Breathe Bhutan Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/ 🎧 Next up: The next episode will be an immersive experience of a Bhutanese festival, and be ready for all the sounds in this one! Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and today’s visit 01:40 – Life, education, and training at the all-female Buddhist nunnery 03:25 – Interview begins: meeting a Buddhist nun 05:15 – A day in the life, exams, and the nine-year monastic path 08:30 – Buddhism, visiting the nunnery, and final reflections -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| 16 Places I Can’t Stop Thinking About Travelling To Right Now | 27 janv. 2026 | 00:27:13 | |
After experiencing Bhutan — a destination that sat at the very top of my travel list for years — I found myself in an unexpected place. Not rushing to plan the next trip, not chasing the next highlight, but sitting in a quiet lull and asking myself a simple question: what places won’t leave my mind now? In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I share 16 places I can’t stop thinking about travelling to right now — not as a bucket list, not as recommendations, but as an honest reflection on how travel inspiration shifts over time. Some of these destinations are familiar and grounding. Others are remote, challenging, or expansive in ways that feel both exciting and intimidating. From places shaped by silence and space, to cultures that feel like crossroads, to one destination that represents a deep exhale after years of movement, this episode explores why certain places keep calling — even when you’re not ready to book a flight. Rather than counting down landmarks, I talk candidly about:
This is a reflective, solo episode for travellers who’ve ever finished a big trip and thought, “What now?” 🎧 Expect honest reasoning, personal perspective, and a reminder that travel inspiration doesn’t always arrive as urgency — sometimes it arrives as a quiet pull. Teasers
Support the Podcast If you enjoyed this episode:
⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Winging It Travel Podcast 01:33 Top 16 Travel Destinations: An Overview 02:29 A Camper Van Adventure 04:24 Isles of Scilly 05:48 The Indian Himalayan Dream 06:46 A Culinary Road Trip in Eastern Europe 07:39 Island Hopping Paradise 09:06 Newfoundland: Canada’s Eastern Frontier 10:31 The Undiscovered Mediterranean Jewel 11:59 A Journey Through History 14:51 Turks and Caicos: Caribbean Bliss 15:48 A South American Cultural Exploration 17:14 A Vast Adventure Awaits 19:35 Safari and Culture 21:00 Deserts and Silence Wonders 22:27 Central Asia: Silk Road Treasures 24:49 An Unbeaten European Summer Road Trip 25:48 The Ultimate Island Escape -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan - Days 1–3: Everest Views, Sand Mandala Art, Epic Walks & Breakfast with a Lama | 19 janv. 2026 | 00:39:29 | |
Solo Episode - Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan - Days 1–3: Everest Views, Sand Mandala Art, Epic Walks & A Breakfast with a Lama In this solo episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you through Days 1 to 3 of my journey in Bhutan, sharing the sounds, stories, and real travel context behind one of the world’s most fascinating destinations. From the unforgettable flight into Paro Airport with Himalayan views stretching all the way to Mount Everest, to my first encounters with Bhutanese food, culture, and daily life — this episode is designed to give you a true sense of what it feels like to arrive and begin travelling in Bhutan. I break down how travel in Bhutan actually works, including flights, visas, costs, accommodation standards, weather in December, and why guided travel is essential to experiencing the country properly. You’ll hear about traditional sand mandala art, gentle acclimatisation walks through the Paro Valley, and the rhythm of life in Bhutan’s cities and temples. The episode finishes with one of the most memorable moments of the trip: breakfast at a hilltop temple overlooking Thimphu called Wangditse Lhakhang, followed by a translated conversation with a Bhutanese lama, where we talk about happiness, belief, spirituality, and life in Bhutan today. A cool way to finish the episode! This is an audio-only episode built to let your imagination do the work — placing you right there through natural sound, reflection, and honest storytelling. In this episode, I also mention the two accommodations I stayed at, called Tiger's Nest Camp and Access Suites Hotel, both of which were fantastic! All in all, this is a classic episode to break down my first three days in Bhutan. For more information on Tiger's Nest, check out my immersive episode on the hike below. https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502 https://open.spotify.com/episode/5R95iDSlJm84s1GjfMgHQK?si=bYR8RKubRWa4tX0_OWMmuA My first episode of the series takes a deep dive into Bhutanese culture, Buddhism, and history through a great guy I met in Thimphu called Ugyen Rinzin. Check out this episode below. https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563 https://open.spotify.com/episode/1a4hmlsGoLvYmNRP52f2ps?si=x7UVHkJlRiKeczeYCKRxUA What You’ll Hear in This Episode
Featured Conversation 🎙 Translated interview with Lama Dorji Tshering Recorded during a morning breakfast at a hilltop temple overlooking Thimphu, discussing:
🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be. This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series. Thanks & CreditsHuge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible. Breathe Bhutan Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/ 🎧 Next up: The next episode in this series will be an interview with a female monk. Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:
Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Welcome & Bhutan Series Overview 02:05 – Why I Travelled with Breathe Bhutan 05:00 – Flying into Paro & Himalayan Views 08:20 – First Impressions of Bhutan 11:10 – Bhutanese Food & Daily Life 14:40 – Sand Mandala Art Experience 18:30 – Paro Valley Walks & Acclimatisation 22:10 – Reflections on Days One & Two 25:40 – Breakfast at a Hilltop Temple 28:16 – Interview with a Bhutanese Lama 39:29 – End of Episode -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - | |||
| IMMERSIVE – Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan – Hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) - EPIC | 12 janv. 2026 | 00:26:45 | |
IMMERSIVE – Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan – Hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) EPIC In this immersive, audio-only episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you with me as I hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) in Bhutan — one of the most iconic and spiritual hikes in the world. This episode starts early in the morning in Paro, with pre-hike nerves, breakfast, and my first distant glimpse of Tiger’s Nest clinging to the mountainside. From there, we journey to the trailhead and begin the steady uphill climb through pine forests, open valleys, and sweeping mountain views. As I hike, I share real-time reactions, heavy breathing, and honest reflections as the monastery slowly reveals itself through the trees. About halfway up, I stop at the famous café for a much-needed coffee — and the first truly jaw-dropping view of Tiger’s Nest sitting impossibly in the distance, tucked into the mountains. From there, the trail continues toward the most iconic viewpoints on the hike, where the scale of the monastery really sinks in. I take you to the famous photo spots before descending hundreds of steps, crossing bridges and waterfalls, and finally entering the temple itself. Inside Tiger’s Nest, there are no cameras — only flickering butter lamps, chanting monks, incense in the air, and a deep sense of stillness. I reflect on what it felt like to experience the monastery without distractions, and why this hike is considered one of the most unforgettable experiences in Bhutan. The episode finishes with the walk back down to the parking lot, lunch in Paro, practical hiking tips, and reflections on why Tiger’s Nest isn’t just something you visit — it’s something you feel. This episode is part of my Bhutan Series, recorded while travelling with Breathe Bhutan, a locally owned tour company creating immersive, meaningful journeys across Bhutan. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, this episode is for you. 🎒If this episode sparks your imagination and makes you want to visit Bhutan, you won’t regret it. Across the Bhutan Series, you’ll hear:
This is not just a travel podcast episode — it’s an invitation to slow down, listen, and understand Bhutan on a deeper level. 🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be. This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series. Thanks & CreditsHuge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible during the first days of my journey. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making it possible. Breathe Bhutan Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/ 🎧 Next up: The third episode will feature an interview with the llama at Wangditse Lhakhang, whom I had the pleasure of having breakfast with before the temple opened to tourists. The view of Thimphu was breathtaking, and we had a fascinating conversation. Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ❤️ Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. Buy me a coffee if you like, for $5, this helps with the production costs of the podcast - Here ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the Journey 02:49 The Hike Begins 06:02 The Ascent to Tiger's Nest 09:02 Reaching the Halfway Point 11:59 The First Glimpse of Tiger's Nest 14:51 Approaching the Temple 17:52 Inside Tiger's Nest Monastery 20:58 Reflections on the Experience 23:59 Conclusion and Next Steps -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - | |||
| Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan - A Conversation with Ugyen Rinzin - Bhutan's History, Buddhism Basics + Modern Bhutanese Culture | 05 janv. 2026 | 00:46:05 | |
Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan - A Conversation with Ugyen Rinzin - Bhutan's History, Buddhism Basics + Modern Bhutanese Culture In this opening episode of my Bhutan Series, I sit down for a deep, thoughtful conversation with Ugyen Rinzin, a Bhutanese local from Paro, to explore the heart and soul of one of the world’s most fascinating countries. Recorded in Thimphu, Bhutan, this episode is a beginner-friendly introduction to Bhutan’s history, Buddhist philosophy, and modern Bhutanese culture, told through the lived experience of someone who grew up before television and the internet arrived in the country. We unpack what makes Bhutan so unique — from its deep-rooted connection to Buddhism, its people-first philosophy, and the idea of Gross National Happiness, to how the younger generation is navigating a rapidly changing world. If you’ve ever wondered:
— this episode is the perfect place to start. Across the Bhutan Series, you’ll hear:
This is not just a travel podcast episode — it’s an invitation to slow down, listen, and understand Bhutan on a deeper level. 🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be. Thanks & CreditsHuge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible during the first days of my journey. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making it possible. This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series. Breathe Bhutan Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/ 🎧 Next up: the second episode in my Bhutan series, recorded on location on the Tiger's Nest Monastery hike, will be an immersive soundscape to bring you along for my hike to one of the most amazing temples in the world. Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ❤️ Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. Buy me a coffee if you like for $5, this helps with the production costs of the podcast - Here ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Bhutan and the Podcast 01:22 Meeting Ugyen Rinzen: A Local Perspective 03:47 Bhutan's History and Cultural Preservation 10:07 Bhutanese Youth and Global Influences 17:05 The Future of Bhutan's Youth 20:06 Understanding Buddhism: A Simplified Overview 23:21 Who is Buddha? The Essence of Buddhahood 25:11 The Geographic Spread of Buddhism 28:11 Understanding the Four Noble Truths 31:43 Roles of Priests, Monks, and Lamas 34:37 Buddhism in a Capitalist World 36:41 Exploring Buddhism: A Beginner's Guide 40:27 The Nature of Time in Buddhism 43:46 Transcending Boundaries: The Essence of Humanity -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| My 2025 Review of My Travels, Winging It, Personal Goals + What Is To Come in 2026 | 02 janv. 2026 | 00:28:06 | |
My 2025 Review of My Travels, Winging It, Personal Goals + What Is To Come in 2026. In this bonus New Year’s Day episode of Winging It, I’m taking a deep dive into my 2025 travel year, the evolution of the podcast, and what’s coming next in 2026. I break down the numbers behind my travels — 22 flights, 90,000km flown, nine countries, three new destinations — but more importantly, I reflect on the moments that shaped me as a traveller and storyteller. From seeing wild elephants in India to sharing breakfast with a Bhutanese monk overlooking Thimphu, this episode is about perspective, purpose, and how travel changes over time. I also open up about the realities of running a long-form travel podcast, including burnout, why I’m stepping back from guest-heavy interviews, and why immersive, sound-rich storytelling is where Winging It is heading next. If you’re interested in slow vs purposeful travel, how travel content is evolving, or what it’s really like to juggle full-time work with global adventures, this episode pulls the curtain back. In this episode, I talk about:
This episode is part travel reflection, part creator reality check, and part forward-looking roadmap for anyone who loves meaningful, honest travel stories. 🎧 Next up: the first episode in my immersive Bhutan series, recorded on location in Thimphu. Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ❤️ Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Welcome to the 2025 Travel & Podcast Year in Review 02:00 – 2025 travel stats: flights, distance & time in the air 04:40 – Why I don’t slow travel anymore 07:00 – India reflections: Bangalore, media trips & first impressions 10:20 – Luxury travel vs real experiences on the road 13:40 – Wildlife moments & seeing wild elephants in India 16:40 – Favourite countries, cities & food from 2025 19:20 – The most surreal moment: breakfast with a monk in Bhutan 22:20 – Podcast stats, burnout & lessons from 2025 25:20 – What’s coming in 2026 & final reflections -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Ep 192 w/ Melissa Rodway (Fly Travel Radio) - The People You Meet While Travelling: Melissa on Stories, Meaning & Modern Travel | 29 déc. 2025 | 01:41:28 | |
Ep 192 w/ Melissa Rodway (Fly Travel Radio) - The People You Meet While Travelling: Melissa on Stories, Meaning & Modern Travel In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m joined by fellow traveller, podcaster, and author Melissa Rodway for a deep, honest, and refreshingly real conversation about travel, purpose, and why simply “wandering” isn’t always enough anymore. Melissa shares how her early travels — including growing up in Australia, moving across Canada, and later long-term adventures — shaped her outlook on life. We talk about why travel doesn’t magically fix everything, how purpose can completely change the way you experience a place, and what happens when the romantic idea of endless travel meets real life, work, and money. We also dive into:
This is an episode for travellers who’ve felt restless on the road, questioned the “quit your job and go” narrative, or wondered how to keep travel meaningful long-term. There are plenty of laughs, reflections, and moments that’ll make you rethink how — and why — you travel. Melissa Rodway Website - https://flyrodway.com/ Podcast - https://flyrodway.com/flypodcast/ Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ❤️ Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Why this episode matters & introducing Melissa Rodway 03:40 – Growing up between Canada & Australia 08:55 – Early travel memories & cultural exposure 13:10 – Searching for meaning through movement 15:45 – Why travel doesn’t “fix” you 18:10 – The myth of constant travel epiphanies 21:20 – Why purpose changes everything on the road 25:35 – Group tours vs solo travel 30:10 – Canada vs Europe for hiking (and the bear problem) 34:05 – Culture shock moments around the world 37:45 – Funding travel & taking career breaks responsibly 40:05 – Budget, mid-range & luxury travel realities 43:55 – Why hostels feel different now 47:25 – Hiking, movement & simple travel routines 51:30 – Freedom, identity & who we become when travelling 57:15 – Why some people can’t stop travelling 1:00:30 – Why others don’t want adventure at all 1:03:20 – Places still calling Melissa 1:05:45 – Final reflections on meaning, people & travel -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| 15 Best Travel Podcasts 2026: Top Shows for Backpackers, Digital Nomads & Responsible Travellers | 22 déc. 2025 | 00:22:14 | |
15 Best Travel Podcasts 2026: Top Shows for Backpackers, Digital Nomads & Responsible Travellers Welcome to the Winging It Travel Podcast's list of top travel podcasts in 2026. Every year the travel podcast world explodes with new voices, but which ones are actually worth your time? In this episode, I'm sharing my handpicked list of the 15 best travel podcasts to follow in 2026—shows that consistently deliver authentic stories, practical advice, and that feeling of being transported somewhere new. Whether you're into budget backpacking, cultural deep dives, responsible tourism, or just want an audio escape for your commute, I've got you covered. From podcasts recorded entirely on the road to shows diving into sustainable travel practices, cinematic audio storytelling to quick 10-minute travel tips—this list spans every travel style and interest. I'll break down what makes each podcast stand out, who it's perfect for, and where to start if you're new to the show. Expect Canadian travel vibes, Japanese cultural insights, wild historical stories, women-led perspectives, European expertise from a legend, and even some Aussie banter about wine and coastal escapes. A few highlights from the list include:
Important note: These are all active podcasts that have released episodes in the last two months—no dormant shows here, just fresh content ready for your 2026 travels. Want the full written list with links to every show? Head to winginittravelpodcast.com for the companion blog post. Let's dive in and find your next podcast obsession. My blog on this episode - https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com/episodes/15-best-travel-podcasts-2026 Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ❤️ Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Travel Podcasts for 2026 02:27 Exploring the Globetrotters Podcast 03:56 Diving into Japan 05:23 Meaningful Travel 06:47 Casual Conversations on Travel 08:14 Insights from Marilyn Ball 09:39 Real-Life Travel Tips 11:01 Women Who Travel 12:28 Deep Insights with Rick Steves 14:55 Wild Stories and History 16:53 Responsible Travel 18:49 Immersive Storytelling -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Ep 191 w/ Mark Phipps (Lost In Paradise Travel) – Off-Grid Mongolia & Southwest Africa: Reindeer Tribes, Wild Roads & Namibia Safaris | 15 déc. 2025 | 01:12:40 | |
Ep 191 w/ Mark Phipps (Lost In Paradise Travel) – Off-Grid Mongolia & Southwest Africa: Reindeer Tribes, Wild Roads & Namibia Safaris In this week's episode, I'm rejoined by Mark Phipps—author, avid traveller and owner of Lost in Paradise Travel—who returns with stories from two incredible journeys: a solo winter adventure to Mongolia and an epic three-week road trip through Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. This conversation is packed with logistics, unforgettable moments and plenty of wanderlust-inducing content that should seriously inspire your next big trip. We start with Mongolia, where Mark travelled completely solo during peak winter, experiencing minus eight degree temperatures and some of the most remote, off-grid travel you can imagine. He walks us through the entire journey—from a twelve-hour overnight bus from Ulaanbaatar to the northern town of Moron, then an eight-hour bone-rattling ride in a Soviet-era four-by-four across frozen rivers and dirt tracks with no signposts, before finally reaching the Dukha reindeer herders on the back of a reindeer itself. Mark spent two nights living with this semi-nomadic tribe just sixty-five kilometres from the Russian border, sleeping in traditional Gers, observing their daily life and experiencing one of the last truly authentic travel adventures left in the world. He shares what it's like to communicate with zero shared language, the food they eat, the spiritual connection to their reindeer, and why this trip requires permits, patience and a serious sense of adventure. From there, Mark takes us through central Mongolia—visiting Karakorum, the ancient capital under Genghis Khan, hiking in Khustai National Park to see wild horses roaming the steppes, and exploring the Mini Gobi with its massive sand dunes and shaggy Bactrian camels. He breaks down the logistics too: how to book buses when systems are old-school, why you need to work with local guesthouses, what it costs to hire a guide, and why Mongolia is one of those rare places where independent travel still feels properly wild. Then we shift continents entirely. Mark recounts an unforgettable three-week road trip with five friends across Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe—all done independently with rented four-by-fours and rooftop tents. He describes climbing the massive sand dunes of Sossusvlei, staying in open-air treehouses perched over rivers with hippos audible from bed, and driving deep into the Okavango Delta to witness Botswana's incredible elephant population up close. But the real highlight? Camping on the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans—a vast, otherworldly expanse where they drove wherever they wanted, watched the sun go down, cracked open beers around a fire and experienced the clearest view of the Milky Way Mark has ever seen. It's one of those moments he describes as truly once-in-a-lifetime. Mark also shares practical advice throughout: the best time of year to visit for wildlife (September to October), what to expect from border crossings, why you should let your tyre pressure down on the salt flats, and the mantra their safari guide lived by—"What nature provides, you will receive." It's a reminder that patience and flexibility are just as important as planning when it comes to African travel. Finally, we dive into Lost in Paradise Travel, Mark's new venture. After his friend had her passport stolen in Budapest on New Year's Day—completely disrupting their trip—Mark created a GPS-enabled passport wallet that connects to your iPhone's Find My app. It's trackable, has an audible alarm, protects your passport cover and holds all your travel documents in one place. He explains why passport loss is such a recurring problem in the travel industry, how much disruption it causes, and why this simple solution could save your next trip. Pre-orders are live now at lostinparadisetravel.com, with the first shipment arriving in time for Christmas. This episode is perfect for anyone dreaming of Mongolia, planning an African road trip or simply craving stories that remind you why travel is worth the effort. Mark is a fantastic storyteller with years of experience, and by the end of this conversation you'll be itching to book something adventurous. Lost In Paradise Travel Website - https://www.lostinparadisetravel.com/ Buy The Trackable Passport Cover - https://www.lostinparadisetravel.com/category/all-products Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lostinparadisetravel/ Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ❤️ Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. Timestamps 00:00 Adventurous Beginnings in Mongolia 07:00 Planning the Journey: Logistics and Challenges 13:52 The Unique Travel Experience: Buses and Roads 21:54 Immersing in Local Culture: The Reindeer Tribe 29:47 Exploring the Heart of Mongolia: History and Nature 38:15 Exploring Mongolia: A Unique Adventure 39:10 Interactions with Locals: A Tourist's Perspective 40:50 Traveling on a Soviet Bus: A Wild Experience 44:37 Road Trip Planning: Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe 45:00 Wildlife Safari: A New Passion 48:08 Highlights of Namibia: Sand Dunes and Nature 52:12 Botswana: Elephants and Friendly Locals 54:24 The Beauty of the Okavango Delta 59:14 Victoria Falls: A Must-See Destination 01:03:15 Lost in Paradise: A New Travel Product -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - | |||
| Exploring Queensland, Australia: Brisbane Highlights, Hiking In The Glass House Mountains & Noosa Paradise | 09 déc. 2025 | 00:19:09 | |
Exploring Queensland, Australia: Brisbane Highlights, Hiking In The Glass House Mountains & Noosa Paradise In this episode, I take you through my eight-day adventure across Queensland after flying in from Vancouver—so expect heat, humidity, stories, and plenty of tips. I start off in Brisbane, where I break down how I navigated the city, the unbelievable 50-cent public transport system, the places I stayed, and all the cafés, restaurants and viewpoints that made the trip so memorable. I share my favourite Brisbane moments, from wandering along South Bank and relaxing at the city beach to heading up the Skydeck for those incredible 360° views. I also talk about my day trip to the Glass House Mountains—how to get there cheaply, what the Mount Ngungun hike was like, and why I nearly abseiled off a 40-metre cliff (but absolutely bottled it at the last second!). Then I head up the Sunshine Coast to revisit Noosa more than a decade after I first saw it—this time with money in my pocket. I chat through the coastal walk to Hell’s Gates, spotting dolphins, hanging out on those stunning beaches, exploring Noosaville’s cafés, and soaking up that paradise vibe that Noosa does so well. And of course, I couldn’t be in Brisbane without going to the Ashes. I dive into the experience of watching England get absolutely battered at the Gabba, what it’s like attending a day–night Test, and the special moment of seeing Joe Root finally score a hundred in Australia. Whether you’re planning a trip to Brisbane, thinking about exploring Noosa, or just love hearing travel stories from the road, this episode is packed with tips, experiences and a few classic mishaps along the way. What I cover:
Want to watch my Ashes Series on YouTube? Then head to my channel here to watch Day 1 (then watch the rest through to Day 4) - https://youtu.be/wfi1npmY0Vg?si=7mAW9GpKHmiaC4ck Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ❤️ Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. Timestamps00:00 – Intro 02:00 – Flying to Brisbane 04:00 – Accommodation in Brisbane 06:00 – Public Transport Hack 08:00 – Brisbane CBD & Skydeck 10:00 – South Bank 13:00 – Food & Coffee Spots 15:00 – Glasshouse Mountains 18:00 – Abseil Attempt 20:30 – Noosa Overview 23:30 – Hell’s Gates Walk 25:30 – Noosaville 28:00 – Getting Around 30:00 – The Ashes at the Gabba 34:00 – Budget & Costs 37:00 – Final Thoughts -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Ep 190 w/ Dave Seminara - Inside South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini: Dave’s Ultimate African Adventure Guide | 01 déc. 2025 | 01:39:25 | |
Ep 190 w/ Dave Seminara - Inside South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini: Dave’s Ultimate African Adventure Guide In this week’s episode, I sit down once again with writer, journalist, YouTuber and seasoned traveller Dave Seminara, who has just returned from an epic journey across South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho. This conversation dives deep into one of the most fascinating regions on the planet, and Dave takes us right into the heart of it—through national parks, vibrant townships, mountain kingdoms and some unforgettable encounters along the way. We start in Cape Town, where Dave shares his experience navigating one of the world’s most spectacular cities, from its dramatic geography and unpredictable weather to the realities of inequality and the history woven into its suburbs. He takes us for a raw and honest look at the Cape Flats, where he met community leaders working to interrupt gang violence and support local youth. It’s eye-opening, powerful and adds an important layer to any understanding of South Africa. From there, Dave describes the magic of going on safari for the first time, including what it’s like to stay on a restored luxury train in Kruger National Park, the thrill of spotting wildlife up close, and why safari is both the most rewarding and unpredictable style of travel. He shares practical tips on budget, expectations and what to do when your game drive luck runs cold. We also talk about the difference between national parks and private game reserves, the food (which sounds absolutely unbelievable), and the guides who bring the whole experience to life. Dave then takes us into the Drakensberg Mountains for hikes, ancient Bushmen rock art and one of the most unique lodge stays he’s ever experienced. And of course, we cross borders into Eswatini and Lesotho, exploring the logistics, the culture and why both mini-kingdoms are absolutely worth adding to any Southern Africa itinerary. This episode is packed with insights for anyone dreaming of Africa, planning a first visit or simply curious about what travel looks like beyond the iconic highlights. Dave brings his humour, honesty and deep curiosity, and by the end you’ll understand why this trip made him rethink his entire travel focus. If you enjoy the episode, please rate and review the podcast on your favourite app and subscribe on YouTube—every bit of support helps the show grow. You can also fuel the podcast at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit to support the production of these weekly stories. And of course, share the episode with a friend who’s dreaming of an African adventure. Want to see more? Check out Dave's website and YouTube vlogs below. Dave Seminara Website - https://daveseminara.com/ YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@MadTraveler Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ❤️ Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. Timestamps 00:00 — Intro, podcast opener & welcome 04:15 — Dave checks in from St. Petersburg and opens the conversation 13:03 — The long-haul flight, the “Africa barriers” and paying for comfort 14:31 — Is South Africa dangerous? Dave’s honest first impressions 15:31 — Why South Africa? Value, safari choices and comparing regions 17:36 — What South Africa offers that East Africa doesn’t 18:53 — Sports culture and why SA is a dream destination for fans 19:16 — The Cape Flats: history, crime, inequality and meeting a violence-interruption priest 28:03 — The Trump “white refugee” policy and South Africans’ reactions 31:03 — Race, identity, how tourists are viewed and township hospitality 32:13 — The universal kindness Dave experienced in poorer areas 34:05 — Cape Town’s geography, beauty and the struggle of winter weather 35:49 — The irony of perfect weather on day one 37:12 — Cape Town’s food scene, markets and coffee culture 38:27 — Prices, tipping, affordability and value for travellers 39:16 — Cape Malay cuisine, braai, and diverse flavours 51:41 — Safari Part 1: Wildlife sightings in Kruger, the wins and the misses 52:21 — Safari Part 2: Public vs private reserves and the real differences 54:35 — Safari advice: luck, patience, multiple drives and not comparing sightings 57:03 — Managing expectations and dealing with slow game drives 1:02:19 — Drakensberg Mountains: hikes, guides, Zulu culture and Bushmen artwork 1:04:09 — Logistics of crossing into Eswatini and Lesotho 1:05:33 — Durban impressions: beaches, food, weather and crime reputation 1:06:47 — Transition into the Lesotho and Eswatini segment 1:07:08 — Lesotho: “Kingdom in the Sky,” mountains, snow and Maliba Lodge 1:09:06 — Meeting the legendary Lesotho guide and visiting local communities 1:25:38 — Eswatini and Lesotho on a budget: surprises and affordability 1:27:23 — Tourism’s importance and how locals view travellers 1:28:47 — Vaccinations, malaria pills and health advice 1:29:31 — Cash vs card, street vendors and the $10 police bribe story -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - | |||
| REVISITED in 2025 - Episode 5 - To Travel Solo Or Not? | 24 nov. 2025 | 00:50:44 | |
REVISITED in 2025 - Episode 5 - To Travel Solo Or Not? In this episode, I go back to one of the earliest recordings I ever released on the Winging It Travel Podcast. My original episode, To Travel Solo or Not, captured a moment when I was still finding my voice, building the show from my bedroom, and trying to make sense of my own travel experiences. Now, years later, I’m revisiting those stories with fresh eyes. I take you through some of the pivotal solo travel moments that shaped who I am as a traveller today — from navigating Bolivia on my own after a last-minute change of plans, to driving around Antigua as the only tourist in sight, to the chaotic hostel scenes in Puerto Rico where life happened right in front of me. I also look back on the randomness of meeting a QPR legend in St. Kitts, getting stranded in Toronto with no way out, and being rescued by a friend I’d met years earlier on the road. These stories reminded me why solo travel can be so powerful. It gives you freedom, vulnerability, unexpected friendships, and moments of real growth. But I also talk honestly about the challenges — the loneliness, the missteps, the uncertainty — and how I see those experiences differently now in 2025. I also reflect on how travelling with friends and partners has shaped me, and how those dynamics contrast with going it alone. Revisiting this episode felt like opening an old journal and realising just how much has changed… and how much hasn’t. If you’re thinking about travelling solo this year, or if you’re curious about how our perspectives evolve as we keep exploring, I think you’ll get something out of this one. If you enjoy the episode, come say hello on Instagram at @wingingittravelpodcast, and check out more at wingingittravelpodcast.com. I’d love to hear your own solo travel stories. To finish, I am not sure what to think of my early episodes; they are a tad cringe from me in terms of the sound and production, but a reminder of the progression I have made in five years. Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ❤️ Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Solo Travel 02:22 The Pros and Cons of Solo Travel 10:23 Cultural Awareness and Adaptability 19:29 Memorable Encounters and Lessons Learned 25:49 Unexpected Encounters in Puerto Rico 33:13 The Importance of Travel Connections 36:06 Solo Travel vs. Group Travel 39:30 Navigating Travel with Friends and Partners 43:55 Embracing Solo Adventures 48:02 Reflections on Travel and Personal Growth -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Ep 189 w/ Marie Walker - A Digital Nomad Reality Check: Marie’s Honest Story of Travel, Work & Burnout | 17 nov. 2025 | 01:15:49 | |
🎙️ Ep 189 w/ Marie Walker - A Digital Nomad Reality Check: Marie’s Honest Story of Travel, Work & Burnout In this week’s episode, I sit down with my longtime podcasting friend and returning guest, Marie Walker, to pull back the curtain on what digital nomad life actually looks like. This is not a highlight reel. This is the real, messy, energising and exhausting truth of building a remote business while bouncing between continents. Marie opens up about leaving the USA with a plan, the crash-and-burn moments that forced her to return home, and the unexpected personal growth that came from rebuilding twice. We talk about the difference between backpacking and being a digital nomad, the pressure to stay productive while constantly uprooting your life, and the emotional toll of trying to create community in a new country every few months. Marie shares the honest lessons she’s learned from Europe, Southeast Asia, Australia and Korea, why she needed to end her 10-month trip early, and how burnout changed the way she approaches business, travel and lifestyle freedom. If you’re dreaming of working remotely around the world or already living the nomad lifestyle, this conversation gives you the reality check most digital nomad influencers skip. It’s raw, funny, vulnerable and full of valuable perspective from someone who has lived the ups and downs. Stick around to hear why Marie is now focused on rebuilding her foundations, where she’s heading next, and how she plans to approach digital nomad life differently moving forward. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering taking their work on the road. Marie Walker Your Girl Media - https://yourgirlmedia.com/ Culture Cult Travel Show Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/culture-cult-travel-show/id1603662928 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6Gfk2meDfzfmJIxybvoE6c Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ❤️ Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. 🕒 Timestamps00:00 Intro 01:18 Marie joins the show 05:00 Digital nomad beginnings 10:12 Why she left the USA 15:44 Backpacking vs digital nomad life 22:00 Planning a long-term work-travel trip 26:14 The realities of burnout 30:42 Community, co-livings and connection 36:30 The loneliness factor 42:00 Digital nomads and overtourism 47:50 Dating while nomadic 55:00 What Marie would do differently 59:40 Lessons learned along the way 1:04:00 Closing thoughts -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| IMMERSIVE - Hornby Island, British Columbia - A White Sand + Warm Clear Water Paradise | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:19:16 | |
IMMERSIVE - Hornby Island, British Columbia - A White Sand + Warm Clear Water Paradise 🌴 Episode Summary In this immersive travel episode, join me, James Hammond, as I take you on a journey to Hornby Island, one of British Columbia’s most enchanting destinations — often called the “Hawaii of BC.” Getting here isn’t easy — it takes three ferries, early mornings, and plenty of patience — but what waits at the end is nothing short of paradise. From tranquil ferry crossings and still turquoise waters to soft white sands at Tribune Bay, hidden calm at Whaling Station Bay, and live music and cider at Fossil Beach Farm, this episode captures the spirit of island life in sound and story. You’ll hear the sea breeze, the crunch of sand, and the quiet hum of campfires as I explore Hornby’s beauty, culture, and community. It’s not just a visit — it’s a complete sensory escape into one of Canada’s most breathtaking coastal secrets. Please sit back, pop on your headphones, and imagine you’re right here with me on Hornby Island. Picture the scenes as you listen — the waves, the wind, and the rhythm of island life. Throughout this episode, you’ll hear soundscapes, live reactions, music, and moments that will whisk you away on a perfect island escape. Enjoy. 🏝️ Episode Highlights
🎧 Listen If You Love Travel storytelling • Immersive soundscapes • Coastal adventures • British Columbia travel • Island getaways • Road trips 💌 Share your thoughts: What’s your vision of Hornby Island after listening? Want to travel with me to El Salvador? Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340 Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 ❤️ Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. 🕒 Timestamps00:00 – Introduction – “The Hawaii of BC” and setting off on the journey 01:10 – Ferry to Vancouver Island – calm seas and early-morning reflections 03:00 – Road trip north + quick coffee stop in Qualicum Beach 04:30 – Ferry crossings to Denman and Hornby – anticipation builds 06:20 – Arrival at Tribune Bay Campground + island first impressions 08:00 – Exploring The Hub – breakfast burrito, coffee, and local vibe 09:45 – Tribune Bay – white sand, warm clear water, paradise found 12:30 – Hike to Mount Geoffrey – forest trails and sweeping views 15:00 – Sunset music and cider at Fossil Beach Farm 17:00 – Whaling Station Bay – quiet reflections and goodbyes 18:30 – Closing thoughts + why Hornby Island stole my heart -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Three Big Announcements: Travel With Me + Intrepid To El Salvador, Winging It Productions & Upcoming Adventures | 03 nov. 2025 | 00:11:28 | |
Three Big Announcements: Travel With Me + Intrepid To El Salvador, Winging It Productions & Upcoming Adventures🌋 Announcement #1 – My First Guided Group Tour: El Salvador 2026 That’s right — I’m officially leading my first-ever guided group tour, and we’re heading to El Salvador from November 19 to 29, 2026! This 10-night, 11-day adventure blends culture, hiking, beaches, food, and local connection — designed for curious travellers who want to see El Salvador, far beyond the headlines. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s included: 🗺️ Highlights
🏡 What’s Included
💸 Price:
Flights, insurance, and some meals not included — but I’ll definitely be buying a few rounds of lattes along the way ☕ 👉 Book your spot: https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142 This isn’t just a holiday — it’s an immersive experience that will change how you see Central America. 🎧 Announcement #2 – Launching Winging It ProductionsAfter years of helping other creators and brands bring their podcast ideas to life, I’ve launched Winging It Productions— a full-service podcast production business. We offer: 🎙️ Podcast launch packages (from idea to release) ✂️ Audio editing for solo and guest episodes 👥 Guest and host management 📈 Marketing and growth support If you’ve always wanted to start a show — or if you’re ready to scale an existing one — I’d love to help. Learn more and book a free consultation at 👉 wingingitproductions.com ✈️ Announcement #3 – My Upcoming TravelsThe rest of the year is stacked with adventure:
🔗 Links & Mentions
❤️ Support the Show If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas. 🕒 Timestamps00:00 Introduction 01:30 Announcing the El Salvador Guided Tour 06:51 Launching Winging It Productions 07:49 Upcoming Travel Adventures 10:13 Closing Remarks and Travel Resources -------------------------------------------------------------- Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - | |||
| Ep 188 w/ Pauline Frommer (Frommer's Travel Guides) - From Europe on $5 a Day to the Digital Age: Why Travel Still Matters | 27 oct. 2025 | 01:00:36 | |
Ep 188 w/ Pauline Frommer (Frommer's Travel Guides) - From $5 a Day to the Digital Age: Why Travel Still Matters In this week’s episode, I sit down with Pauline Frommer, the editorial director and the voice behind the legendary Frommer’s Travel Guides — a brand that has shaped how millions of people explore the world. From her father Arthur Frommer’s iconic Europe on $5 a Day to her own role in redefining modern travel, Pauline shares a fascinating journey through decades of changing travel trends and timeless wisdom. We dive into the golden age of travel, the challenges of keeping guidebooks relevant in the AI and influencer era, and why authentic, local knowledge still matters more than viral posts or paid promotions. Pauline reflects on her early travels across Europe as a child, her father’s unexpected path from law to publishing, and how the Frommer family helped democratise travel for everyone—not just the rich. We also unpack the realities of today’s travel media landscape — from fake reviews and corporate bias to AI scraping journalism — and what this means for travellers seeking honest advice. Pauline shares her insights on sustainable travel, mid-range budgets, and why travel remains one of the best ways to understand humanity, especially in divided times. If you’ve ever carried a guidebook in your backpack, dreamed of exploring the world more meaningfully, or wondered how travel has evolved over the last 70 years, this episode is a must-listen. Expect heartfelt stories, insider travel tips, reflections on modern society, and the enduring reminder that the world is still worth exploring — one honest adventure at a time. 🔗 Useful Links🎧 Listen to The Frommer’s Travel Show: https://www.frommers.com/podcast 📚 Explore Frommer’s Guidebooks: https://www.frommers.com 📸 Follow Pauline Frommer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frommers ☕ Support Winging It Travel Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wingingit 🕒 Timestamps00:00 – Why Pauline Frommer believes guidebooks still matter 04:00 – The Story of Arthur Frommer and Europe on $5 a Day 09:00 – Travelling through postwar Europe and lessons learned 13:00 – The power of travel to connect us beyond nationalism 15:00 – How influencers changed travel media (and not for the better) 19:00 – Why Americans don’t travel as much as they should 22:00 – What keeps Pauline passionate about exploring 30:00 – The best decades for travel and how COVID reshaped wanderlust 36:00 – Culture shock moments in China and India 37:30 – Who are Frommer’s guidebooks written for today 41:00 – How AI and algorithms are reshaping travel advice 47:00 – The truth behind energy use and AI’s environmental cost 48:00 – How podcasts keep travel storytelling real 53:00 – Pauline’s favourite destinations, cuisines, and experiences 59:00 – Why you should travel while you can -------------------------------------------------------------- Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Wingin' It ft James Hammond - Up In The Clowds Podcast | 20 oct. 2025 | 01:08:24 | |
Welcome to this week's episode, where I share an episode where I was a guest on the Up In The Clowds Podcast with Adrian Ussling. Adrian's new podcast is a fantastic travel podcast sharing travel stories, tips, information, fun and much more. I loved being a guest, and hopefully, it provides you with some wanderlust. Check out Adrian's podcast below. Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/wingin-it-ft-james-hammond/id1788205559?i=1000724621300 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2M1CCDxcWDvBzwTwJ8DaLH?si=V8Ss8HssTFyxgS54dcbbmQ Episode Shownotes Joined today by fellow podcaster and travel enthusiast James Hammond. He has travelled to 70 countries and experienced a life that many of us dream of. His storytelling is immaculate and his memories are fascinating. A fun and memorable interview including:
Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Life Update 10:40 Interview with James Hammond: Travel Experiences 19:01 Southeast Asia Adventures and Cultural Insights 25:46 Hidden Gems in Southeast Asia 28:01 Experiences in Australia: Work and Travel 30:29 Life in the Mines and Vineyards 33:10 Travelling Through South America 36:52 Adventures in Bolivia 40:08 Unique Experiences in Rio de Janeiro 45:01 The Thrill of Death Road 49:02 Reflections on Bolivia and the Inca Trail 53:19 Memorable Group Experiences 55:47 Travelling Without a Safety Net 58:13 Visa Strategies for Travellers 01:00:12 Hidden Gems and Favourite Destinations 01:01:38 The Allure of Japan 01:05:27 Lessons from Bali 01:10:04 Future Travel Plans and Aspirations -------------------------------------------------------------- Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. | |||
| Ep 187 w/ John Stuckey at Bear Hug Campers - Building the Perfect Campervan | Vanlife Design & Road Trip Freedom | 13 oct. 2025 | 01:26:09 | |
🎙️ Episode Title: Ep 187 w/ John Stuckey at Bear Hug Campers - Building the Perfect Campervan | Vanlife Design & Road Trip Freedom In this week’s episode of The Winging It Travel Podcast, I chat with John Stuckey, the founder of Bear Hug Campers, a UK-based company known for crafting custom-built campervans that perfectly blend design, functionality, and adventure. John shares how his passion for travel, craftsmanship, and freedom led him from building his first DIY campervan to launching a thriving business helping others bring their vanlife dreams to life. Based near the South Downs in England, Bear Hug Campers has become a go-to name for bespoke van conversions, off-grid living setups, and self-build support. We unpack every stage of the campervan conversion journey — from early inspiration and learning the essential skills to understanding realistic build costs, materials, and layouts that actually work on the road. John also reveals the biggest rookie mistakes first-time builders make, the non-negotiables for safety and quality, and how to make smart choices that save money without cutting corners. If you’ve ever dreamed of designing your own van, taking a road trip across Europe or North America, or simply embracing a more minimalist, nomadic lifestyle, this episode is packed with invaluable insight and encouragement. John’s experience offers both the creative inspiration and practical knowledge needed to start your own vanlife journey. We also discuss the latest vanlife trends for 2025, including the rise of smaller, stealthy vans, clever space-saving designs, and why more people are turning to modular and off-grid builds. Plus, John explains how Bear Hug Campers supports the growing self-build community through his online van conversion courses, offering hands-on guidance, video tutorials, and a vibrant learning community for DIY builders. This is a must-listen for vanlife enthusiasts, digital nomads, and travellers who want to combine creativity with practicality — and discover what it truly takes to build a home on wheels. 🎧 Support & ConnectIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show — it really helps others discover the podcast! 🔔 Subscribe, leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review for Winging It, and support the podcast via Buy Me A Coffee! ⏰ Timestamps00:00 Safety First: The Importance of Quality in Conversions 03:07 Budgeting for Your Dream Van: Cost Breakdown 06:01 Travel Tales: Exploring the UK and Beyond 08:55 The Allure of American Road Trips 12:03 Cultural Experiences: Japan and Its Unique Charm 14:49 The Journey to Van Conversions: Personal Experiences 18:06 Learning the Craft: Skills for Van Building 21:04 Bear Hug Campers: The Business of Custom Conversions 29:01 Building a Community Around Van Conversions 30:12 Budgeting for Van Conversions 34:35 Essential Features in Van Conversions 37:09 Cost-Saving Strategies Without Compromising Quality 41:07 Safety First: Where Not to Cut Corners 42:57 Common Rookie Mistakes in Van Conversions 48:35 Trends in Campervan Designs 51:06 Choosing the Right Van for Conversion 57:37 Must-Have Elements for a Successful Build 59:07 Designing the Perfect Van Layout 01:02:08 Understanding Customer Needs in Van Conversions 01:03:57 Training and Education for DIY Van Builders 01:06:05 Common Challenges in Van Conversions 01:08:37 Exploring the Van Life Community 01:10:00 Travel Destinations and Client Preferences 01:11:06 Unique and Challenging Requests in Van Builds 01:14:05 Future Projects and Innovations 01:16:05 Quickfire Travel Questions and Insights 🌍 Follow Bear Hug Campers
-------------------------------------------------------------- Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers, James. | |||
| Magical Prague at Sunrise, My Cringe Oktoberfest Stories and Travel Fitness | 08 oct. 2025 | 00:26:30 | |
Magical Prague at Sunrise, My Cringe Oktoberfest Stories and Travel Fitness In this week’s episode of Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m taking you through three very different parts of my travel life — the peaceful beauty of Prague at sunrise, the chaotic hilarity of my cringe Oktoberfest stories, and my personal reflections on something I call “travel fitness.” I start with my recent trip to Prague, one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. After a sleepless overnight flight from Vancouver, I landed just in time to experience something truly magical — the city waking up at dawn. With the sun rising over the Vltava River and not a tourist in sight, I wandered across the Charles Bridge, through the Old Town Square, and soaked in that golden early-morning glow that made the whole city feel timeless. It reminded me why I travel — those quiet, unplanned moments that make everything worth it. Then we move into a very different kind of travel experience — my cringe and hilarious Oktoberfest stories. I went to Oktoberfest for the first time back in 2014 at the end of my two-year backpacking trip, and to say it was messy would be an understatement. From falling off benches to accidentally soaking locals in beer, to somehow ending up cleaning my own disaster in a tent washroom — it was pure chaos. I also share what it was like to go back this year to meet some fellow travel creators, Chris and Sarah and Matt and Nat, and to see the festival from a slightly older (and more sober!) perspective. It’s a funny look back at my early travel days — the mistakes, the laughs, and the stories that stick with you forever. Finally, I wrap up with a reflection on something I’ve been thinking about lately — travel fitness. It’s not just about being physically fit; it’s about having the energy, curiosity, and adaptability to keep exploring day after day. After walking nearly 27,000 steps in Prague, I realised just how much “travel stamina” it takes to be on the move — from early mornings, long days, and constant new experiences. I share a few honest thoughts on how I try to keep that balance and stay ready for whatever comes next on the road. This episode is a mix of reflection, chaos, laughter, and travel insight — everything I love about sharing stories on this podcast. Whether you’re planning your next adventure, reminiscing about your own travel fails, or just dreaming of that next sunrise in a new city, I hope this episode inspires you to get out there and keep exploring. ⏰ Episode Timestamps00:00 – Intro and what’s coming up in this episode 01:10 – Why Prague blew me away at sunrise 03:20 – First impressions of the city and staying on a boat hotel 05:30 – Walking Prague’s empty streets and Charles Bridge at dawn 08:00 – Meeting a fellow traveler and reflecting on Prague’s vibe 10:30 – Travel tips: seeing Prague before the crowds 11:00 – Heading to Oktoberfest and meeting YouTube travel creators 12:45 – Throwback to my first Oktoberfest in 2014 15:00 – The infamous “bench collapse” story 17:30 – Falling asleep at a Bayern Munich game 19:40 – My worst Oktoberfest hangover ever 21:30 – Revisiting Oktoberfest as an older, wiser traveler 22:30 – What I’ve learned from embarrassing travel moments 23:00 – Introducing “travel fitness” — my personal theory 24:30 – Why travel stamina matters on long trips 25:20 – Tips for building your travel fitness before your next adventure 26:00 – Upcoming podcast news and future travel plans 🔗 Links Mentioned🎥 Watch my vlogs on YouTube: Roaming with Hammo 🌍 Explore more travel podcasts at Voyascape.com ☕ Support the show → Buy Me a Coffee 🧳 Book Lucie's free walking tour on your next visit to Prague - https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/36530-welcome-to-prague-old-town-jewish-quarter-and-charles-bridge -------------------------------------------------------------- Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers, James. | |||
| Ep 186 w/ Rachel Rudwall - From STA Travel to 80 Countries: Rachel's Journey as a Global Storyteller | 29 sept. 2025 | 01:15:08 | |
Ep 186 w/ Rachel Rudwall - From STA Travel to 80 Countries: Rachel's Journey as a Global Storyteller In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I sit down with Rachel Rudwall, who is also known as Rachel Roams. Rachel is an Emmy-nominated on-camera Host, Producer, Camera Operator, Writer, and Award-Winning Photographer. Rachel has travelled to all seven continents, lived in three countries, and journeyed through over 80 nations. Rachel is also a Fellow of the Explorers Club and has an extensive social media following. I met Rachel last year at TravelCon, where she gave a very inspiring talk that captivated me, so I was eager to have her on the podcast for a conversation. From her early days in Ohio dreaming of the wider world, to landing a life-changing internship with STA Travel, Rachel’s story is one of persistence, curiosity, and following her passion for exploration. Rachel shares how her time with STA Travel opened the door to a career in travel media, taking her from study abroad experiences in Spain and Scotland to a globe-spanning role as a video producer and host. We dive into the challenges and lessons of producing content before the days of YouTube dominance, what it takes to capture and hold an audience, and why storytelling always begins with putting the listener or viewer first. We also explore the reality behind the glamorous world of travel media — the grind of producing content, the countless hours behind the scenes, and the need to love the craft deeply enough to push through the hard days. Rachel discusses building her creative career in Los Angeles, collaborating with other storytellers, and carving out her niche in a male-dominated industry where persistence and proof of concept were crucial. On a personal level, Rachel reflects on how travel has evolved for her as a mother, from multi-month shoots to family adventures across Italy and beyond. She offers powerful insights into balancing work and family life, finding joy in simple experiences like visiting playgrounds and local grocery stores, and instilling a spirit of adventure in her child. This conversation is packed with travel inspiration, career lessons, and practical advice for content creators, adventurers, and dreamers alike. Whether you’re fascinated by travel TV, curious about breaking into storytelling, or simply love hearing about epic adventures across 80 countries, Rachel’s journey will spark your wanderlust and leave you inspired. Rachel Rudwall Website - https://www.rachelroams.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rachelroams/?hl=en 🔔 Subscribe, leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review for Winging It, and support the podcast via Buy Me A Coffee! Timestamps 00:00 The Power of Collaboration in Creativity 01:31 Embracing Travel: Overcoming Fear and Finding Joy 03:50 Introduction to Rachel Rudwell: A Journey of Exploration 12:10 Early Travel Experiences: Family Road Trips and Cultural Awareness 14:31 Defining Moments: The Internship that Changed Everything 20:55 Navigating the Media Landscape: From Intern to Storyteller 25:04 The Art of Storytelling: Learning from Experience 33:23 Proof of Concept: The Importance of Persistence in Content Creation 37:41 Creative Roots: Photography, Writing, and the Journey of Expression 41:54 Rediscovering Playfulness in Adulthood 46:21 The Joy of Travel and Family Adventures 56:18 Cultural Connections Through Travel 01:04:08 Moments of Reflection and Self-Discovery 01:10:24 Travel Tips for the Adventurous Spirit -------------------------------------------------------------- Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers, James. | |||
| My Top 15 Travel Destinations I’d Return to Tomorrow In A Heartbeat (And Why They’re Unforgettable) | 22 sept. 2025 | 00:23:47 | |
My Top 15 Travel Destinations I’d Return to Tomorrow in a Heartbeat (And Why They’re Unforgettable) What makes a destination unforgettable? Is it the people, the food, the culture, or simply the feeling you get when you arrive? In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you through 15 of the most incredible places I’ve visited that continue to pull me back. These are the destinations I’d return to tomorrow if I had the chance, and each one has its own story, memory, and lasting impression. Across this journey, you’ll hear about destinations that range from vibrant global cities to remote islands and peaceful mountain villages. Each one shaped my travels in different ways — whether through breathtaking landscapes, powerful cultural encounters, or spontaneous adventures that could only have happened elsewhere. These are the places that stay with you long after you’ve left, the ones that call you back no matter how many new countries you explore. This list isn’t about checking boxes on a tourist itinerary. It’s about travel that feels personal and transformative. Some of these destinations are well-known icons of world travel, while others are tucked-away gems that left me speechless; yet all of them remain unforgettable. When I think about where I’d be happiest to go back to in a heartbeat, these 15 spots rise straight to the top. If you’ve ever wondered which destinations are worth returning to, this episode will give you plenty to think about. Maybe it will remind you of a place you’ve already visited and loved, or perhaps it will spark your curiosity for somewhere new. Travel is about those moments that linger in your memory, and this countdown is all about the locations that have done precisely that for me. So, whether you’re planning your next trip, looking for travel inspiration, or love hearing stories from around the world, join me as I share the places that I can’t stop thinking about. Some are across the ocean, some are closer to home, but every one of them has the power to inspire a return journey. Press play and see how my list compares to yours. Which destination would you return to tomorrow in a heartbeat? 🔔 Subscribe, leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review for Winging It, and support the podcast via Buy Me A Coffee! Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to the countdown of unforgettable travel destinations 02:17 – Starting with hidden islands and fiery landscapes 03:44 – Stories from vibrant streets and dramatic South American backdrops 06:08 – A journey through ancient temples and a golden coastline escape 08:54 – Mountain town magic and the charm of traditional culture 10:50 – A road trip through breathtaking natural wonders 12:44 – Two iconic cities filled with energy, history, and endless exploration 16:08 – Coastal drives, lighthouses, and a slower pace of life 17:35 – A buzzing metropolis full of flavours, markets, and surprises 18:35 – High-altitude trails, mountain villages, and unforgettable sunrises 20:33 – A dreamy finale in a place that feels like pure paradise -------------------------------------------------------------- Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the links below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers, James. | |||
| Ep 185 w/ Matt Dennis On Travelling With A Disability: Breaking Barriers, Accessible Travel + Mindset | 15 sept. 2025 | 01:45:16 | |
Ep 185 w/ Matt Dennis On Travelling With A Disability: Breaking Barriers, Accessible Travel + Mindset In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m joined by Matt Dennis — a travel writer, journalist, and accessibility advocate — to discuss his inspiring journey of travelling with a disability and how mindset can transform the way we see the world. Matt, also known as The Empowered Traveller, has been featured in publications like Metro, The Independent, Evening Standard, and Adventure.com. His work shines a light on accessible travel and how small changes in infrastructure, awareness, and attitude can open up destinations for millions of travellers worldwide. We dive into Matt’s story of becoming disabled at 18, navigating life with a paralysed leg, and discovering the confidence and freedom that comes through travel. From interrailing across Europe with crutches and a backpack to advocating for accessibility at global tourism expos, Matt shows that travel is not just possible with a disability — it can be empowering and life-changing. Throughout the episode, Matt shares insights into the realities of accessible travel, including which destinations are leading the way and which still have a long way to go. We explore countries such as Canada, France, Albania, and India, and discuss how accessibility isn’t just about wheelchair ramps — it’s about inclusive design, public transportation, adapted activities, and, most importantly, mindset. This conversation also highlights why accessible tourism matters for everyone. With ageing populations and an increasing number of people living with mobility challenges, accessibility benefits not only disabled travellers but also seniors, families, and anyone who wants easier, more inclusive travel experiences. Whether you are a disabled traveller looking for tips, an industry professional seeking to understand the importance of accessibility, or simply curious about how to make travel more inclusive, this episode will open your eyes to the possibilities. We discuss:
Whether you’re a traveller with a disability, know someone who is, or want better to understand the importance of accessibility in global travel, this conversation will leave you inspired. Matt Dennis Website - https://www.empoweredtraveller.com/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheEmpoweredTraveller-hh6vo 🔔 Subscribe, leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review for Winging It, and support the podcast via Buy Me A Coffee! Timestamps 00:00 The Joy of Travel and Mindset 02:51 Introduction to Accessible Travel 08:20 Early Travel Memories and Inspirations 17:41 The Impact of Travel on Personal Growth 25:30 Navigating Travel with a Disability 35:35 Conversations on Accessibility in Travel 37:56 Building Accessibility in Indian Tourism 39:01 Exploring Karnataka's Heritage and History 41:51 Experiencing Karnataka's Wildlife and Nature 43:45 Challenges in Travel Organisation 46:11 Cultural Insights from Local Experiences 49:30 Media vs. Travel Agent Perspectives 50:55 Wildlife Safari Cancellations and Expectations 54:48 Accessibility in Travel: A Global Perspective 01:01:26 The Future of Accessible Travel 01:05:51 The Journey of a Travel Writer 01:16:01 Serendipitous Encounters and Opportunities 01:19:10 The Art of Pitching and Storytelling 01:23:29 Networking and Building Connections 01:25:54 Navigating the Travel Writing Landscape 01:26:25 Diverse Perspectives in Accessible Travel 01:27:29 Promoting Accessible Travel 01:30:19 Upcoming Adventures and Future Plans 01:34:00 Quickfire Travel Questions and Insights -------------------------------------------------------------- Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers, James. | |||
| The Top 10 Things I Have Learnt On My Travels From The Last 15 Years...So Far | 08 sept. 2025 | 00:21:57 | |
The Top Things I Have Learnt On My Travels From The Last 15 Years...So Far After 15 years on the road and over 75 countries explored, I’ve had my fair share of missed buses, border mishaps, budget wins, breathtaking hikes, and unforgettable friendships. In this solo episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I share the top 10 lessons I’ve learned from traveling the world — insights that can help you make your adventures smoother, deeper, and more meaningful. From the importance of packing light and learning a few phrases in the local language, to why slow travel beats rushing through bucket lists, I dive into the hard-earned lessons that only come from years of backpacking, volunteering, and chasing stories across the globe. You’ll also hear why free walking tours are a goldmine for cultural connections, why the off-season is the best time to travel, and how nature is the real luxury we often overlook. 🌍 In this episode, you’ll learn:
Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker, a gap-year adventurer, or planning your very first trip, these lessons will inspire you to travel with more confidence, awareness, and curiosity. 🎧 Tune in now to hear the raw, real, and reflective side of travel — because these aren’t just stories, they’re tools to help you travel smarter, deeper, and more authentically. 💬 What about you? I’d love to hear the biggest lessons you have learned on your travels. Share your thoughts with me on Instagram @wingingitravelpodcast or drop me a DM — I might even read out your stories on a future episode! ⭐ Support the Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and follow the Winging It Travel Podcast on your favourite podcast app. Every 5-star review helps more travellers like you discover the show. Even better, tell your friends to check out the many different types of episodes, such as this raw solo episode, my immersive cinematic experience episodes from my travels, or the incredible guests I have had on the podcast to date. 🔗 Connect & Explore More
🚀 New episodes drop every Monday — so subscribe and join me on this journey of real, raw, and inspiring travel stories from around the globe. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Travel Lessons 02:14 Expect the Unexpected 05:26 Connecting with Local Culture 06:53 The Benefits of Light Packing 07:52 Learning Local Languages 10:20 Travelling Off-Season 12:38 The Luxury of Nature 13:34 The Uniqueness of Travel Friendships 16:31 Resilience Through Budget Travel 18:23 The Value of Slow Travel 20:16 The Kindness of the World -------------------------------------------------------------- Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts! -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Social Media - follow me on: -------------------------------------------------------------- Support My Podcast - Memberships Patreon - Here Buy Me A Coffee - Here Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers, James. | |||