Snacks and Suitcases – Details, episodes & analysis

Sally continues her chat with Jo from the popular blog The Tokyo Chapter, diving into the best family-friendly experiences in Japan. From must-try dishes like shabu shabu to belting out tunes in a Tokyo karaoke booth, Jo shares her top tips for travelling with kids. You'll also hear her advice on managing food allergies, visiting big-ticket attractions like TeamLab and Tokyo Disneyland, and of course, the tastiest Japanese snacks to try along the way!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Japan with Kids

01:28 Must-See Attractions and Experiences

04:45 Culinary Adventures: Shabu Shabu and Sukiyaki

10:48 Navigating Dietary Restrictions in Japan

17:09 Cultural Etiquette and Travel Tips

19:48 Tourist Attractions: Worth It or Overrated?

22:50 Interactive Art Experiences: Team Lab

24:30 Choosing Between Attractions: Team Lab vs. Disney

25:01 The Magic of Disney: A Family Perspective

30:25 Navigating Japan: Tips for First-Time Visitors

35:51 Understanding Accommodation in Japan

39:04 Weather Considerations for Traveling in Japan

41:49 Final Tips for Family Travel in Japan

Contact Jo

The Tokyo Chapter Blog: thetokyochapter.com

Follow Jo on Instagram @thetokyochapter

Or Facebook

Topics we mentioned

Kinosaki Onsen

Rainbow Karaoke

Shabu Shabu

Happy Cow App

Gluten Free in Japan Facebook Group

TeamLab

Tokyo Mart

Connect

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

Facebook

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan!

AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, Sally sits down with Jo MacGregor, the creator of the beloved travel blog The Tokyo Chapter, to dive into everything you need to know about visiting Japan with kids. From toddler friendly itineraries to why you absolutely should bring a stroller. This episode is packed with firsthand experience and honest advice for navigating Japan as a family.

Whether you're planning your first visit or your fifth, you'll walk away with practical tips on where to stay, how to eat well without breaking the bank, and the magical details that make Japan one of the most kid-friendly travel destinations in the world.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Japan: A Family Travel Adventure

03:03 The Tokyo Chapter: A Resource for Families

06:05 Why Japan is a Family-Friendly Destination

08:54 Navigating Japan with Kids: Strollers and More

11:57 Making the Most of Your Japan Trip

14:47 Accommodation Choices: Hotels vs. Ryokans vs. Airbnbs

17:52 Luggage Forwarding: A Game Changer for Travelers

29:34 Kidzania: A Fun Experience for Kids

32:02 Choosing the Right Neighbourhood in Tokyo

35:16 Family-Friendly Accommodations in Tokyo

37:57 Exploring Harajuku: An Ideal Itinerary

41:05 Planning for Early Mornings in Tokyo

43:13 Budget-Friendly Tips for Traveling in Japan

49:11 The Importance of Playgrounds for Family Travel   

• The Tokyo Chapter blog: thetokyochapter.com
• Follow Jo on Instagram @thetokyochapter
• Or Facebook
• Robot Park
• Kidzania
• Wanpaku Land
• Harajuku Itinerary
• My Mizu App

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

Facebook

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

Travelling with kids just got easier! Snacks and Suitcases is packed with advice, tips & laughs. Hosted by TV presenter Sally Stanton. Coming soon!

Thinking about a snow holiday with your kids but not sure where to start? In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton is joined by snow guru, fellow ex-snow reporter, and mum of two Christie Hampton. Christie has spent years living and working in ski resorts around the world and now calls the Snowy Mountains home.

Christie shares her top tips for planning a smooth and fun family ski trip 

You’ll learn: What age kids should start skiing (and when to wait) What snow gear to rent vs buy The truth about ski school (and why you should “drop and run”) Pocket snacks, hot chocolate hacks & high-value bribery How to choose the right Aussie ski resort—budget or bougie Plus: genius tips like dress rehearsals, air tags, and carabiners for chaos control

From Perisher to Thredbo, Charlotte Pass and even to Japan’s powdery slopes, this episode is your ultimate guide to snow trips with little ones in tow.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Family Skiing Adventures

01:58 Christy's Journey in the Snow Industry

06:12 Building Resilience Through Skiing

12:06 Preparing for Your First Snow Holiday

16:42 Choosing the Right Age for Kids to Ski

21:20 Finding the Best Ski Resorts for Families

28:39 Luxurious Ski Holiday Destinations

29:30 Exploring Niseko: A Family Ski Destination

32:10 The Apres Ski Scene: Fun Beyond the Slopes

33:35 Activities Off the Slopes: Keeping Kids Engaged

36:46 Skiing with Kids: Tips and Hacks for Parents

46:21 Budget-Friendly Ski Holidays: Planning for Families

52:41 Preparing Kids for Skiing: Building Excitement

54:25 Final Thoughts: The Joy of Family Ski Trips

Contact Christie via christie@snowymountains.com.au

OR @snowymountainsnsw

Topics we mentioned

Tourism Snowy Mountains

Snow books for kids

Corin Forest

Charlotte Pass

Perisher Ski Resort

Thredbo

Wild Brumby Distillery

Prince Hirafutei Hotel Niseko

Livigno Ski Resort Italy

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

Facebook

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a friend who is dreaming of snow fun with their fam!

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! 

In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton catches up with fellow TV presenter and seasoned traveller Sophie Falkiner to talk all things travel, parenting, and the wild world behind travel TV.

Sophie’s career has taken her gorilla trekking in Africa, chasing the Northern Lights, and visiting some of the most spectacular destinations on the planet. She also shares her love story with Africa….including the time she got pashed by a giraffe on her honeymoon!  Plus her passion for boating on Sydney’s Pittwater and why the simplest family moments often mean the most.

Travelling for TV isn’t always as glamorous as it looks. Sophie and Sally reveal the reality of long days, unpredictable conditions and some very questionable on-camera meals (think snake and even prairie oysters!).

Off-screen, Sophie’s love of exploring has shaped her personal life too. She’s raised her kids to be just as curious and adventurous. Now as a teenager and a young adult, they’re fearless travellers in their own right.

This episode is packed with family and teen travel inspiration, behind-the-scenes TV tales, and lots of stories that prove TV travel isn’t always red carpet glamorous, but when it’s good, it’s downright unforgettable, just like travelling with kids!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Travel with Kids

02:43 Sophie Faulkner's Journey in TV and Travel

05:43 The Thrill of Travel and Adventure

08:44 Memorable Travel Experiences and Encounters

11:56 Behind the Scenes of Travel TV

14:48 Family Life and Parenting Challenges

17:47 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Recommendations

20:42 Strange Foods and Culinary Adventures

23:35 Personal Travels and Honeymoon in Africa

26:31 Traveling with Teenagers

29:22 Balancing Work and Family Life

32:41 Favorite Family Holidays and Destinations

35:29 Traveling with Kids: The Reality

38:27 Fast Five Questions with Sophie

41:38 Conclusion and Future Travels

Contact

Instagram

@sophie_falkiner

@sydneyweekender

www.Sydneyweekender.com.au

Connect

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast 

@sallynanamis

Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with your fellow travel loving friends. 

AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

A must listen for anyone planning a Disneyland adventure!

Host Sally Stanton is joined by Let's Go Mum founder and Disneyland expert Barbara Bryan to chat, which Disneyland has just the right amount of magic for you and your family. 

Together they explore Disney parks around the world, from Disneyland California and Walt Disney World to Epcot, Shanghai Disneyland and Tokyo Disneyland.

Barbara shares insider tips on the best rides for kids of every age, how to beat the crowds, where to find the yummiest Disney snacks and why staying at a Disney hotel can make the whole experience even more magical. You will hear how to plan your Disney trip like a pro, from budgeting and booking tickets to timing your visit for the shortest queues.

They also talk about accessibility for neurodivergent families, hidden gems in each park and the unforgettable moments that make Disney holidays so special. This episode is packed with practical tips and playful stories to help you plan your ultimate Disney family adventure.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Disneyland: A Magical Journey Begins

02:18 Meet the Expert: Barbara Bryan's Disney Adventures

04:45 The Allure of Disneyland: Family Fun and Memories

07:47 Exploring the Disney Parks: A Global Overview

11:07 Disney World vs Disneyland: A Tale of Two Parks

14:49 Epcot: A Culinary and Cultural Experience

16:33 Orlando: Beyond Disney - A City of Fun

17:41 Planning Your Disney Trip: Tips for Families

19:02 Shanghai Disneyland: The Newest Disney Experience

21:20 Tokyo Disneyland: A Budget-Friendly Gem

23:51 Hong Kong Disneyland: A Family-Friendly Park

29:28 Anticipating Disneyland Paris: What to Expect

31:13 The Future of Disney: New Parks and Attractions

36:38 Choosing the Right Disney Park for Your Family

39:11 The Thrill of Disney Rides

40:38 Choosing the Right Disney Park

41:32 Best Times to Visit Disney Parks

43:37 Navigating Crowds and Queues

45:08 Booking Park Tickets: Tips and Tricks

47:25 Understanding Express Passes and VIP Services

49:09 Staying at Disney Hotels: Worth It?

51:27 Accessibility for Neurodivergent Families

53:02 Top Rides for Kids

55:29 Disney's Scary Attractions

57:26 Best Kept Disney Secrets

59:29 Unique Disney Snacks and Food Experiences

01:01:57 Baby-Friendly Disney Parks

01:04:11 Handling Long Queues with Kids

01:05:46 Disney on a Budget

01:08:31 Affordable Disney Hotels

01:10:17 Final Tips for a Magical Disney Experience

Contact Barbara

Let's Go Mum Australian Family Travel

Instagram

@letsgomum

Facebook

Let's Go Mum Facebook

Youtube

Let's Go Mum Youtube Channel

Connect

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast 

@sallynanamis

Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Disney!

AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

We LOVE Sydney!

In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, TV presenter and radio favourite Lizzy Lovette joins host Sally Stanton to co-host a deep dive into their hometown of Sydney, Australia. As fellow Sydney Weekender reporters (and mums), they share why Sydney is one of the world’s best family destinations.

From must-see icons like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge to hidden gems only locals know, Lizzy and Sally swap tips on outdoor adventures, cultural hotspots, kid-approved dining, and unique experiences you won’t want to miss. For first-time visitors or locals looking for fresh ideas, this episode is your ultimate family guide to exploring Sydney.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Sydney: A Family Destination

02:43 Exploring Sydney's Iconic Sites

05:44 Family-Friendly Activities in Sydney

08:34 Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

11:41 Unique Experiences for Kids

14:37 Cultural and Artistic Adventures

17:41 Food and Dining with Kids

20:34 Outdoor and Nature Activities

23:35 Adrenaline-Pumping Adventures

26:21 Relaxing Getaways and Mini-Breaks

29:34 Tips for First-Time Visitors

32:22 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Contact Lizzy Lovette

Instagram

@lizzylovette

Topics we mentioned

Whalebridge Restaurant

Sydney Harbour Bridgeclimb

May Gibbs Nutcote

High N Dry Burgers

The Ark Haberfield

Kids Night Out

Sydney Weekender

Connect

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

Facebook

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan!

AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

Giveaway Alert:

Follow @Snacksandsuitcasespodcast on Instagram, find the giveaway post and tag a friend for your chance to win a signed copy of Ada's junior fiction series Mia Megastar!

In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton sits down with Ada Nicodemou, Australian actress and Home and Away star, to talk all things family travel, parenting, and cultural connections.

Ada shares her love for visiting her family roots in Greece and Cyprus, along with her favourite family-friendly destinations in Australia like Port Douglas and Palm Beach, the real-life Summer Bay!

From the challenges of travelling with kids to the joys of cruising holidays, Ada gives honest tips and personal stories that will inspire any parent planning their next adventure.

The conversation also explores Ada’s passion for food and Greek cuisine, her treasured reading habits while on the road, and how her experiences on Home and Away have influenced her outlook on travel and life as a working mother.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why cruising is an ideal holiday option for families

• The importance of food and culture in Ada’s travels

• Tips for managing long flights and packing with kids

• Ada’s favourite spots in Sydney for family outings

• How travel deepens family connections and cultural heritage

• Ada’s love of reading and writing as part of her travel journey

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ada Nicodemou 01:25 Ada's Love for Travel and Family Destinations 06:53 Experiences on Home and Away and Travel Inspirations 09:40 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Challenges 19:36 Cruising Adventures and Family Fun 26:45 Cultural Connections: Cyprus and Greece 32:36 Food Memories and Culinary Adventures 37:47 Reading and Writing: Ada's Literary Journey 51:54 Local Sydney Favorites and Family Activities 56:49 Fast Five: Quick Travel Preferences

What we mentioned

Quicksilver Tours Nth Qld

Grecian Park Hotel

Grecian park Hotel near Konnos Bay in Cyprus - Ada's fave hideway

Ttappis Tavern

Ada's favourite Cheap Eats in Cyrpus

Follow Ada on  Instagram @adanicodemou

Connect

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

Facebook

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan!

AND... Don't forget your snacks!