Snacks and Suitcases: Family Travel Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

What is it really like raising kids in India?

After sharing her flying-with-babies tips in a previous episode, listener favourite Rachel McCallum is back to give us a fascinating glimpse into her family's life as expats in Chennai, India.

Rachel, her British wife Gemma and their two boys have spent the past eight years living in one of the world's most colourful, chaotic and captivating countries. From navigating culture shocks and organised traffic chaos to raising children in a multilingual, multicultural community, Rachel shares the realities of everyday family life in India.

We chat about what surprised her most when she first arrived, why India often gets an unfair reputation, and how her boys are growing up surrounded by languages, cultures and friendships from all over the world.

Thinking of visiting India with kids? Rachel also shares some of her favourite family-friendly destinations, including the iconic Taj Mahal and Kerala's famous houseboats. Plus, we talk food, festivals, school life, expat perks and the unique experiences that make India unlike anywhere else on Earth.

In this episode we cover:

• What it's really like living as an expat family in Chennai
• Culture shocks and misconceptions about India
• Raising kids in a multilingual and multicultural community
• Family-friendly destinations in India
• Visiting the Taj Mahal with children
• Kerala houseboats and why everyone loves Kerala
• Indian food, festivals and local traditions
• International schools and expat life
• Why kids are so celebrated in Indian culture
• The realities of travelling India as a family

Whether you're considering an overseas teaching position, planning a family trip to India or simply curious about expat life abroad, this episode offers a fascinating insider perspective on one of the world's most unforgettable destinations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Expat Life in India

01:59 Cultural Insights and Realities of Chennai

04:21 Family Life and Kid-Friendly Activities

06:32 Health and Safety Concerns

09:51 Navigating the Medical System

11:20 The Role of Domestic Help

15:12 Raising a Family as a Same-Sex Couple

16:12 Multilingual Kids and Cultural Exposure

18:37 Education System in India

20:08 Identity and Cultural Integration

25:00 Traveling in India with Kids

26:46 Exploring the Taj Mahal: A Family Experience

29:15 Traveling in India: Tips for Families

32:49 Must-Visit Destinations in India

34:40 Cultural Experiences: Markets and Street Food

38:28 Understanding India's Diverse Festivals

42:10 School Lunches and Dietary Considerations in India

48:23 Navigating Allergies and Food Options in India

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

• @snacksandsuitcasespodcast
• @sallynanamis
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

AND... Don't forget the snacks. 

What is it really like to pack up your life, pull the kids out of school and spend a year caravanning around Australia?

This week on Snacks and Suitcases, Sally Stanton welcomes back Big Lapper and now author Simone Skinner-Smith to chat about her brand new book, Passenger Princess: Underprepared and Overcaffeinated for the Big Lap.

Last time Simone joined the podcast, her family were still on the road travelling Australia in a caravan with two young boys. Now she’s back home in Sydney, reflecting on the adventure that changed her family forever.

In this funny, heartfelt and honest conversation, Sally and Simone chat about:

• the reality of van life and caravanning around Australia with kids
• coming home after a year on the road
• family travel challenges and unexpected moments
• the emotional side of the Big Lap
• unforgettable characters they met around Australia
• parenting, resilience and raising adventurous kids
• caravan park life, road trip hacks and travel tips
• self-publishing a book
• why social media only shows half the story

Simone also shares:

• her favourite destinations around Australia
• the truth about living in a caravan full-time
• funny travel disasters
• Big Lap packing mistakes
• caravan park hacks
• family travel advice for parents dreaming of doing a lap around Australia

Plus, Simone’s son Louis joins the conversation to answer the Kid’s Corner questions!

This episode also includes a short discussion relating to mental health and the Blue Tree Project in Australia. Please take care while listening with young children.  (at approx 23.26 mark) and open your heart and mind to those needing an old fashioned chat 💙

LINKS

Follow Simone: @biglappers or @simoneskinnersmith
Book: Passenger Princess: Underprepared and Overcaffeinated for the Big Lap available on Amazon and Kindle.

https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/1923680129

Big Lap: Family Road Trip Around Australia (first episode full of tips)

 https://pod.link/1819621151/episode/c2FsbHlzdGFudG9uLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tLzE4ZjdiZDkzLTg4NWEtM2I3NS1iZTIyLWU1MTIzZjFmYTg3ZA

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

• @snacksandsuitcasespodcast
• @sallynanamis
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

And if this episode made you smile, share it with another parent who may need that gentle nudge to set off on a big lap. Because if not now, then when?

AND... Don't forget the snacks. 

Hosted by Sally Stanton.

This week’s episode is a quick one… but there’s a lot coming.

Host Sally Stanton is heading off grid and into the wild, all in the name of “research”. Which sounds dreamy… until you realise there’s no phone, no reception… and no WiFi 😳

But here’s the exciting part…

Sally will be reporting back with a full episode sharing exactly where she went, what it was like and how her city loving fam survived nature's wonderland. 

BUT next Tuesday there is a very special guest coming on Snacks and Suitcases.

Let’s just say, she’s one of the biggest children’s entertainers in the world. You probably know her by her first name.

So don’t go anywhere.

Make sure you’re following the podcast so you don’t miss what’s coming next and if you’ve got a road trip or holiday coming up, now’s the perfect time to catch up on past episodes.

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

• Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/
• com/sallynanamis/
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, review and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of travelling the world!

AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

We head to the stunning mountain town of Livigno in Italy, a true hidden gem in the European Alps and one of the host locations for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Sally is joined by Aussie ski industry powerhouse and mum of two, Caroline Brauer, who shares why this incredible destination completely won her over. And why she, along with her husband, former Olympic skier Jono Brauer, base their Arc Skier Development Program there. 

They chat about what makes Livigno so special for families and young developing skiers. Think “hero” snow, wide open slopes, runs that literally take you to Switzerland! Short lift lines and that relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes travelling with kids so much easier.

Caroline also explains how the Arc Skier Development program gives Aussie kids the chance to build their skills in a world class alpine environment, while parents enjoy a European ski holiday filled with amazing food, scenery and a little bit of indulgence.

From duty free shopping to delicious Italian and Swiss inspired cuisine, Livigno offers so much more than just skiing. It is one of those places that surprises you in the best possible way.

If you have some budding ski superstars or are just dreaming of a family snow trip that feels a little different, this one is definitely worth adding to your list.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Livigno: A Hidden Gem for Families

02:14 Olympic Spirit: Caroline's Experience at the Winter Olympics

05:29 The Arc Skier Development Program: Nurturing Young Talent

13:04 Family-Friendly Lavinio: A Perfect Destination

18:36 The Unique Offerings of the Arc Program

27:33 Off-Slope Activities: Fun Beyond Skiing

31:54 The Essence of Bombardino

32:44 Navigating Livigno: Language and Accommodation

36:07 Culinary Delights: The Restaurant Scene in Livigno

40:46 Off-Snow Activities: Ice Rally Driving and More

43:10 Shopping in a Duty-Free Paradise

45:12 Affordable Skiing: Lift Prices and Packages

46:31 A Perfect Day in Livigno with Kids

49:59 Packing Essentials for a Ski Trip

51:56 Exploring the ARC Ski Development Program

52:35 Kids Corner: Questions from Mini Travelers

54:23 Fast Five: Quickfire Questions with Caroline

Resources

• The ARC Ski - Official Website
• https://www.instagram.com/thearcski/
• Zinermann Sports Ski Rental
• https://www.myholidaylivigno.com/en
• https://www.livigno.eu/en/

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

• Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/
• Instagram.com/sallynanamis 
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of an alpine adventure

AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

Bite Sized Bonus Episode

Kurashiki with Kids: Japan Off the Beaten Track

Join Sally and Jo Macgregor from the Tokyo Chapter for this bonus Bite Sized episode, as they explore the charming Japanese town of Kurashiki. Covering its history, attractions, and travel tips for families. Discover why Kurashiki is a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for a cultural and scenic experience with kids.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Kurashiki: A Hidden Gem in Japan

01:37 Personal Connection to Kurashiki

04:11 Cultural Highlights and Unique Experiences

07:34 Travel Tips and Accessibility

09:32 Conclusion and Future Adventures

Contact

Follow Jo on Instagram: instagram.com/thetokyochapter

Visit thetokyochapter.com

Resources

Kurashiki Tourism Official Site - https://www.kurashiki-tabi.jp/en/

Ohara Museum of Art - https://www.ohara.or.jp/en/

Japanese Denim - https://en.japantravel.com/okayama/denim-in-kurashiki/12345

Connect

Instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/com/sallynanamis/

Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who is dreaming of Japan

AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

Planning a trip to Japan with kids? Discover how to explore Hiroshima and Miyajima in a meaningful, family-friendly way.
From peace memorials to floating torii gates, here’s everything you need to know before you go.

In this episode, I’m joined by my friend Jo from The Tokyo Chapter to explore, two family friendly cities beyond the bright lights of Tokyo... Hiroshima and Miyajima. 

We cover how to visit Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial with kids in a gentle, age-appropriate way, plus everything you need to know about Miyajima, from the famous floating torii gates to deer encounters and the best time to visit.

You’ll also get practical tips on transport, where to stay, what to eat (hello okonomiyaki), and how to make it all feel easy with kids in tow.

Plus, what’s trending in Japan travel right now and a fun Kids’ Corner segment.

Contact Jo

• Instagram: The Tokyo Chapter
• Blog: thetokyochapter.com

Resources

• Mama Papa Map app – Find toilets and family amenities in Japan
• Tablelog – Restaurant and seating info in Japan
• Okonomiyaki Restaurants – Hiroshima-style cooking spots
• Miyajima Ferry Timetable – Check tide times and ferry schedule
• Miyajima Seaside Hotel - Family Friendly Ryokan in Miyajima
• Kodomonokuni
• Grinpa  

Connect

Instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/com/sallynanamis/

Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who is dreaming of Japan

AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

Snacks and Suitcases season 3 is here!

We’re kicking things off with a road trip around New Zealand’s North Island.

Sally is joined by Renata Wiles, a New Zealand mum and creator of Roam with Kids. An app designed to help you find the best kid (and parent) friendly playgrounds, cafes, restaurants and activities (many FREE) around New Zealand and quite possibly soon…. the world.

Renata is an adventure and wildlife lover who has travelled extensively with her young family and has all the tips for a fun family holiday. She critiques Sally’s recent North Island adventure. From Auckland to Wellington.... ticking off Hobbiton, Rotorua, Taupo, Hawke’s Bay and the windy city! Plus Renata shares her must visit sights and road trips around NZ with kids.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Snacks and Suitcases
01:10 Exploring New Zealand's North Island
04:05 Meet Renata Wiles: A Kiwi Adventurer
09:43 The Birth of Roam with Kids App
12:24 Why New Zealand is Great for Kids
16:30 North Island vs. South Island Adventures
22:28 Itinerary Insights: Auckland to Wellington
28:01 Experiencing Hobbiton: A Magical Tour
36:21 The Journey: Tips for Traveling in New Zealand
38:42 Exploring Rotorua's Unique Geothermal Wonders
41:46 Family-Friendly Activities in Rotorua and Taupo
45:55 Cultural Experiences and Hidden Gems in Rotorua
49:38 Hawke's Bay: A Culinary and Family Adventure
01:01:43 Wellington: The Windy City and Its Attractions
01:05:41 Unmissable Spots and Travel Tips for New Zealand

Contact

Follow Renata on Instagram: instagram.com/renataroaming/

Follow Renata on TikTok: tiktok.com/@renataroaming/

Get the Roam with Kids app

https://roamwithkids.app

Resources

Safe Swim NZ - Check water quality and safety warnings

Hobbiton Tours - Book ahead to secure your spot

 Hear more of Renata's adventure's here

Connect

Instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/com/sallynanamis/

Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who is dreaming of New Zealand

AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

This is the final Ski Japan episode and final episode of Snacks and Suitcases for the season.  Find out how a Club Med all inclusive ski trip in Hokkaido can be the easiest and best way to experience a ski trip with the family!

Skiing and snowboarding in Japan is truly something special and Hokkaido is one of the best places in the world for families. In this final episode of the year, Sally chats with Michelle Davies from Club Med Pacific about what makes Club Med Hokkaido such an easy and memorable ski holiday with kids.

We look at the different Club Med resorts including Kiroro Grand for little ones, Kiroro Peak for teens, and Tomamu for first time skiers with the bonus of the amazing Mina Mina Waterpark. Michelle also shares how much snow Hokkaido gets each season (and it's a whopping amount!) and why the long ski season makes planning around school holidays so simple.

There is also time for a little Christmas spirit as Sally remembers her own white Christmas in Canada and we hear favourite festive memories from all our Ski Japan guests.

It is the final episode of Snacks and Suitcases for the year and the perfect way to finish the Ski Japan series.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ski Japan Series

01:53 Exploring Club Med Resorts in Hokkaido

10:33 Choosing the Right Resort for Families

12:23 Celebrating Christmas in Japanese Ski Resorts

14:49 Booking Tips for Ski Holidays

17:09 Reflections on a White Christmas

Topics We Mentioned

Club Med Snow

• Tomamu
• Sahoro
• Kiroro Peak
• Kiroro Grand
• Club Med France

Niseko United

Whistler Blackomb

 Connect

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook

@snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

Facebook

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend!

AND... Don't forget your snacks! Merry Christmas!

This is the 2nd episode in the Ski Japan Series and it’s all about the snowiest and fluffiest, ski destination in Japan… Niseko!

In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton sits down with long-time Niseko devotee Christie Hampton, who has spent more than 20 winters in Japan’s most famous ski town. If you’re dreaming of that light, dry, ridiculously fluffy Hokkaido powder (that you simply cannot get in Australia), this is your ultimate family guide to skiing Niseko. Plus Christie also shares why the ski resorts in Rusutsu and Furano are also fantastic options.

Christie first visited Niseko decades ago, long before it blew up into the global ski phenomenon it is today. Now, she returns every single Japanese winter with her family. Her kids have been skiing that powder since they were two years old, so she is a bona fide expert!

Sally and Christie cover:

• Why Niseko continues to win “Best Ski Resort in Japan” year after year
• What first-timers need to know about weather, gear, goggles and the cold
• Whether Niseko is comfortable for babies and toddlers
• Why booking ski school (and pretty much everything possible) early is essential
• Where to eat, shop and explore beyond the slopes
• What makes Furano and Rusutsu worth adding to your itinerary
• Onsens (yes, we talk about mixed onsens!) and the magic of Japanese snow culture
• Day trip ideas, terrain advice.

Christie gives a refreshingly honest, super helpful breakdown of what makes Niseko special and why so many families return year after year. If you’re tossing up whether to make Japan your next snow holiday… this episode will absolutely seal the deal.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Niseko: A Family Ski Paradise

03:01 The Allure of Niseko's Powder Snow

06:01 Skiing in Hokkaido: Comparing Resorts

10:37 Christie's Journey: From Visitor to Local

11:44 Exploring Other Hokkaido Resorts

15:33 Why Niseko is the Best Ski Area in Japan

22:01 The Changing Face of Niseko

25:19 Budget-Friendly Tips for Families

26:05 Getting Around Niseko: Transportation Tips

27:57 Activities for Non-Skiers: Food and Onsens

30:52 Exploring Onsen Culture in Japan

32:45 Family-Friendly Activities in Niseko

34:59 Day Trips and Local Attractions

37:44 Ski School Insights for Kids

42:02 Winter Weather and Clothing Essentials

48:04 Packing Tips for a Niseko Trip

49:42 Shopping and Supermarket Experiences

52:10 Quickfire Questions about Niseko

Topics  we mentioned

Furano Ski Resort

Rusutsu

Rhythm Japan

Niseko United

Grand Hotel Onsen

Rhythm Rides

Moiwa Lodge

Ren Izakaya

Gyu Bar

Connect

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook

 @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

Facebook

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend!

AND... Don't forget your snacks or your skis! 

This is the first of three snowy episodes all about skiing in Japan.

If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable family ski trip to Japan, this episode is your go to guide to exploring Honshu with kids.

Niseko might get all the powder hype, but Honshu has its own incredible magic. Culture filled villages, family friendly resorts and that perfect amount of adventure and charm that families love. 

And the best part? Some of Honshu’s top ski spots are just a quick hop, skip and Shinkansen ride from Tokyo.

Sally is joined by BBC Travel Reporter Carmen Roberts who spent eight years living, working and skiing in Japan. Carmen’s insider knowledge of family travel, easy day trip resorts, and hidden gem ski areas is very impressive.

In this episode Carmen shares her top family friendly ski resorts in Honshu including:

• Gala Yuzawa. The famous Shinkansen to Ski resort you can reach directly from Tokyo.
• Hakuba. A huge resort area with something for every level of skier.
• Nozawa Onsen. A beautiful traditional village known for incredible snow and natural hot springs.
• Myoko Kogen. A favourite for families who want great snow without the big crowds (for now).

They also chat about the best off-snow activities for the whole family including onsens (and onsen family etiquette) the adorable Snow Monkeys, what to pack for your family ski trip and when to travel for the best snow and the least crowds.

If you are planning a family ski holiday to Japan this episode is packed with practical travel tips, resort advice, and expert insights to make your next snowy adventure unforgettable.

Follow

@carmenroberts_travels

Ski Resorts  We Mentioned:

Gala Yuzawa

https://gala.co.jp/en/winter/

Hakuba

https://hakuba.com/

Nozawa Onsen

https://en.nozawaski.com/

Myoko Kogen

https://myokoskiresort.com/

Ishiuchi

https://ishiuchi.or.jp/winter/

Kagura/Naeba and Prince Hotel

https://www.princehotels.com/en/ski/kagura/

Lotte Arai 

https://www.lottehotel.com/arai-resort/en

Connect

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook

 @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

Facebook

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend!

AND... Don't forget your onsen etiquette!