Travel planning from people who've actually been there. Real trips, real experience, real advice.
The Global Travel Planning Podcast is hosted by Tracy Collins, an independent traveller who has explored more than 60 countries over 40 years. Each episode brings you first-hand trip reports, destination planning guides, and practical advice from travellers who have done it themselves.
With 100 episodes and counting, the show covers destinations across Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and Australia. Whether you are planning your first international trip or adding a new destination to a well-worn passport, you will find honest, experienced advice here.
New episodes every fortnight. Find show notes, links and travel guides at globaltravelplanning.com.
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Portugal Travel Tips for first time visitors with Julie Dawn Fox
Episode 79
Wednesday, November 5, 2025 • Duration 58:23
Portugal captivates visitors with its dramatic coastlines, colourful cities, and relaxed pace of life that creates an immediate sense of welcome. We explore this diverse country with Julie Fox, a British writer who has lived in central Portugal since 2007 and helps travellers discover authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist trail.
Portugal offers remarkable geographical diversity, from the green, tradition-rich north to the sun-drenched Alentejo and the dramatic coastlines of the Algarve
While no longer a “cheap” destination, Portugal continues to offer excellent value, especially for food and wine
First-time visitors should resist trying to cover too much ground – 7 to 10 days split between Lisbon and Porto provides a perfect introduction
Lesser-known alternatives often provide better experiences than overcrowded “must-see” attractions such as Pena Palace
Portugal’s culinary highlights include pastéis de nata, Serra da Estrela cheese, octopus dishes, and unique liqueurs such as ginjinha and Licor Beirão
Bring comfortable, non-slip shoes, as Portuguese cobblestones are notoriously slippery even in dry weather
The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (March–April, October–November) when crowds are smaller and temperatures more comfortable
For more Portugal travel tips and itinerary ideas, visit Julie’s website at JulieDawnFox.com
🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips.
Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family.
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Bucket List Dreams: Where We've Been and Where We're Going
Episode 78
Wednesday, October 29, 2025 • Duration 33:26
Every traveller carries a mental list of places they long to see, from childhood dreams to newly discovered wonders. These bucket lists reveal our deepest fascinations and evolve as our relationship with travel changes.
Tracy and new permanent co-host Melissa share their own wishes, from African safaris to singing along while landing in Anchorage, Alaska. They reflect on how priorities shift over time. Many start with iconic sights, then find deeper joy in slower, more immersive trips to less visited places. As Melissa says of a month in India, “What surprised me wasn’t the destinations or attractions, but the interactions we had with people.”
Our rapidly growing Ladies Who Travel community (5,000+ members in six weeks) echoes this shift. Members are organising meet-ups across continents and joining group trips to Morocco, helping each other realise dreams like the Northern Lights, European Christmas markets, or long-awaited Greece.
Whether you keep a written list or a mental one, this episode celebrates destinations that call to you. As Tracy says of finally seeing the Golden Gate Bridge after nearly forty years, “Sometimes you don’t get to them straight away. But eventually you can, and that dream never went away.”
Together, they dive into the realities of travel wellness, sharing practical tips, personal stories, and lessons learned from decades of global adventures. From long-haul flights and disrupted routines to managing mental health and bouncing back from injuries, this honest chat covers it all.
Melissa opens up about navigating mental health and healing after injury, Shelly shares how daily habits and supplements help her stay grounded, and Tracy reflects on the importance of slowing down and listening to your body.
Whether you are a frequent flyer or planning your first big trip, this episode offers real-world advice to help you feel your best while exploring the world.
Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner -
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Stamped: Mandy Watson – One woman, one motto, and a world of adventure
Episode 68
Wednesday, August 20, 2025 • Duration 31:33
What do you get when you mix an empty nest, unstoppable curiosity, and a cheeky life motto to “spend the kids’ inheritance”? In this episode of Stamped, Mandy Watson joins Tracy to share the bold, breathtaking, and often hilarious stories behind her lifelong love of travel.
From being stranded in Hawaii with just $1 at 18, to summiting Kilimanjaro at 40, trekking the Inca Trail at 50, and planning Everest Base Camp at 60, Mandy proves that travel is not something you grow out of. It is something you grow into.
She recounts a heart-racing “Attenborough moment” in the Maasai Mara, reflects on places she is glad she has seen but does not need to return to, shares her dream of finally spotting the Northern Lights, and offers up a simple travel tip you will actually want to use.
With nearly 70 countries already ticked off and 26 more on the horizon, Mandy’s story will inspire you to revisit your own bucket list and maybe even expand it.
Exploring Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Ipoh: Our Complete Malaysia Itinerary
Episode 67
Wednesday, August 13, 2025 • Duration 33:20
We take you on a journey through our 13-day adventure in Malaysia, exploring Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Ipoh by train, ferry and grab taxis while sharing our experiences, favourite foods, and practical tips.
• Flying business class on Malaysian Airways and enjoying their famous satay chicken skewers • Staying at the Crowne Plaza in Kuala Lumpur, perfectly positioned five minutes from the Petronas Towers • Taking the first-class train to Penang with access to the Ruby Lounge and meal service • Exploring Penang's UNESCO sites, including the Peranakan Mansion and the Chew Jetties • Witnessing monkeys crossing electrical wires at precisely 6:30 pm to reach their dinner spot • Discovering Ipoh's incredible cave temples: Sam Po Tong, Nam Thaum Tong, and Ling Seng Tong • Trying countless Malaysian dishes at hawker centres, including bean sprout chicken and Ais Kacang dessert • Using the Grab app for easy and affordable taxi service throughout Malaysia • Catching the comfortable Aeroline coach from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore instead of flying
Whether you're planning your first trip to Malaysia or returning for more exploration, be sure to carry some cash for food courts, stay hydrated in the tropical heat, and most importantly, come hungry for the incredible Malaysian cuisine.
Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here.
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Hawaii for First Time Visitors: Essential Tip, Island Choices and more from Marcie Cheung
Episode 66
Wednesday, August 6, 2025 • Duration 42:36
Hawaii expert Marcie Cheung shares essential insights for planning your first trip to the islands, from choosing which island to visit to navigating transportation and experiencing authentic local culture. We unpack common misconceptions about Hawaii's geography, budget considerations, and practical tips for making the most of your Hawaiian vacation.
• Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island are the four main Hawaiian islands tourists visit • Hawaii is expensive year-round – budget early for accommodation, flights, car rentals and activities • Best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons: May-mid June and September-early November • Plan one main activity per day rather than overscheduling your itinerary • No ferries connect the major islands – island hopping requires flights and half a day of travel time • Most islands require rental cars – book well in advance • Hawaii is casual – pack light with swimwear, one nice outfit, and reef-safe sunscreen • Take advantage of happy hour "pupus" (Hawaiian appetisers) to save on food costs • Must-try foods include Spam Musubi and authentic shave ice (not snow cones) • Experience Hawaiian culture through hula performances and traditional luaus
The Ladies Who Travel dish on food adventures around the globe, sharing their triumphs, disasters and discoveries while exploring how we eat abroad.
• Food tours offer cultural context, local knowledge and social connections for solo travellers • Different dietary approaches require varying levels of preparation when travelling overseas • Cultural misunderstandings can lead to surprising meals, like vegetarians being served chicken • Exotic food experiences from jellyfish salad to fresh snake add adventure to travel tales • Health considerations while travelling include carrying medications, protein supplements and activated charcoal • Local markets provide authentic food experiences and direct economic support to communities • Home dining experiences with locals create meaningful connections beyond typical tourism • Strategies for healthy eating abroad include meal-sharing, cooking occasionally, and adjusting meal times
Take some comforts from home on your travels – your favourite tea bags, breakfast bars or snacks to help you find your feet in a new place before discovering local food options.
Essential Tips for Your First Journey to India with Travel Expert Mariellen Ward
Episode 63
Wednesday, July 23, 2025 • Duration 52:32
Mariellen Ward, an award-winning Canadian travel writer and co-founder of the tour company India for Beginners, shares her transformative 20-year journey through India and how she now helps first-time visitors experience this vibrant country with confidence.
• Mariellen's first six-month Indian adventure arose from an inexplicable calling while battling grief and depression • The feeling of "coming home" in Delhi sparked two decades of travel, writing, and eventually founding a custom tour company • Common misconceptions about India include exaggerated safety concerns and assumptions about poverty • Scammers targeting tourists present a greater challenge than violent crime • Preparation is crucial – research clothing norms, health precautions, and cultural expectations before arrival • Consider homestays over hotels for a more authentic, grounded experience • Explore beyond the Golden Triangle – regions like Kerala and Madhya Pradesh offer rich experiences with fewer tourists • Cultural sensitivity is essential – dress modestly, respect religious customs, remove shoes in homes and temples • Time your visit according to weather patterns – each region has optimal seasons • Plan around major festivals like Diwali when travel can become challenging
To learn more about experiencing India through custom tours designed for first-time visitors, especially women travellers, visit breathedreamgo.com or indiaforbeginners.com.
Stamped: Amanda Kendle – How Thoughtful Travel Shapes a Life of Meaningful Adventures
Episode 63
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 • Duration 31:15
In this very first episode of the Stamped series on the Global Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins welcomes Amanda Kendle, creator of the Thoughtful Travel Podcast. Together, they dive into Amanda’s personal travel stories, exploring the sparks that set her on a lifelong journey of exploration, her most memorable destinations, and the transformative impact of travel.
Amanda reminisces about early adventures, from a childhood road trip around Europe to epic journeys like crossing Russia on the Trans-Siberian railway. She shares practical insights on navigating off-the-beaten-path destinations, the joy of long-distance train travel, and her deep connections with places like Japan and Iceland.
Listeners get a candid look at travel from the perspective of someone passionate yet relatable, with highlights on family trips, cultural immersion, and the magic that happens when plans are left flexible.
Ultimate Guide to Extended Travel: Tips from Our Nine-Month, 22-Country Trip
Episode 62
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 • Duration 50:52
Tracy and Doug reflect on their incredible nine-month journey across 22 countries and four continents, sharing candid insights about their favourite destinations, practical tips, and lessons learned from long-term travel.
• Morocco and Sri Lanka emerged as top destinations with their rich cultures and warm hospitality • Food tours provide the perfect introduction to new destinations, offering local knowledge and culinary insights • Strategic packing with thermal layers proved essential for navigating between European winters and Asian heat • Leaving luggage at a "base location" solves the challenge of packing for multiple seasons and climates • Balancing work and travel requires designated work days and dividing responsibilities based on strengths • Christmas markets in Germany create magical winter experiences worth braving the cold temperatures • Train strikes and unexpected weather can derail plans, highlighting the importance of flexibility • Comprehensive travel insurance is non-negotiable – "if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel" • Checking for local festivals and holidays before booking helps avoid unexpected disruptions • Slower travel with longer stays in fewer destinations provides a more rewarding experience
If you're dreaming of your own extended adventure, visit globaltravelplanning.com for detailed itineraries and practical planning advice from our journey around the world.
🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips.
Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family.
🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips.
Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family.
🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips.
Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family.
🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips.
Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family.
Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here.
🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips.
Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family.
Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here.
🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips.
Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family.
🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips.
Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family.
🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips.
Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family.
Plan your next trip step by step with our free Global Trip Planner - download it here.
🗺️ Free Global Trip Planner Planning a trip of your own? Grab our free Global Trip Planner, a five-step workbook with the checklists, timelines and itinerary templates Doug and I use for our own trips.
Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family.
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