Truly Expat Travel – Details, episodes & analysis

Episode 26: Christmas in Hakuba with Blaise and Kiara Barnes

This Weeks Chat:

Join me for the season finale as I chat with Blaise Barnes and Kiara Barnes, about their unforgettable Christmas holiday in Hakuba, Japan. From carving through powder snow to discovering the best après-ski spots, they share their insider tips for experiencing one of Japan's premier winter destinations. Whether you're a seasoned snowboarder or planning your first trip to the Japanese Alps, this episode is packed with practical advice and festive holiday inspiration.

What We Cover:

• Why Hakuba is the perfect destination for a winter Christmas getaway
• Snowboarding in the Japanese Alps and what makes Hakuba's powder so special
• Equipment rental tips and why Rhythm is the go-to shop
• Dining recommendations: The authentic izakaya experience at Izakaya Hie
• Après-ski culture: Drinks and atmosphere at The Aperie Bar
• Christmas in Japan: What it's like to celebrate the holidays in a Japanese ski town

Key Highlights

Snowboarding in Hakuba Blaise and Kiara share their experiences hitting the slopes in one of Japan's most famous ski regions, known for its incredible powder snow and diverse terrain.

Equipment Rental at Rhythm They both recommend Rhythm for hassle-free equipment rental, discussing what makes this shop stand out for snowboarders and skiers.

Dining: Izakaya Hie Get the inside scoop on this local izakaya that captured their hearts with authentic Japanese cuisine and atmosphere.

Après-Ski: The Aperie Bar Learn about the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the slopes, with insights into Hakuba's vibrant après-ski scene.

Helpful Travel Resources

Planning your own trip to Hakuba? Check out these comprehensive guides:

📍 The Best Restaurants to Try in Hakuba Discover more dining options beyond what Blaise and Kiara mentioned, from Wagyu specialists to the best ramen spots.

🏨 The Best Places to Stay in Hakuba A complete guide to accommodation options across Hakuba's different areas, including detailed information about Hotel Rosenheim.

❄️ Things to Know About Hakuba: A Winter Wonderland Essential travel information including how to get there from Tokyo, lift tickets, ski lessons, and activities beyond skiing.

About This Episode

This is the season finale of the Truly Expat Travel Podcast! We're wrapping up with a special family episode that brings together everything we love about travel: adventure, discovery, and sharing experiences with the people we love most.

Connect With Us

If you enjoyed this episode about Hakuba, please leave us a review and share it with fellow snow lovers and Japan enthusiasts!

Have a destination you'd like us to feature? Use the feedback button to let us know where we should explore next season.

The Truly Expat Travel Podcast: Join Paula as she chats with expats from around the world about their favourite travel destinations.

Send us Fan Mail

Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation 

Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel 

Facebook: Truly Expat

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Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

Episode 25: Unwrapping Christmas in London with Karla

This Week's Chat

Join me as I chat with Karla Barreca about experiencing Christmas in London, and discover why this magical city transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. Whether you're dreaming of a proper British Christmas or planning your festive getaway, this episode will fill you with holiday cheer and wanderlust.

What We Discuss

• Karla's Expat Story: Why she now calls London home.
  Her first Christmas living in London: The story behind her first Christmas and why she loves it so much. 

The Highlights:

• Must-visit spots and hidden gems 
• Local cuisine and Christmas markets
•  What makes it so special during Christmas
•  Seasonal Tips

Practical Bits: Getting there, where to stay, and how to celebrate Christmas 

Key Takeaways

• The Christmas lights in the city
• What to eat and drink during the holiday season
• That London has Christmas Markets too!

Mentioned in This Episode

• Christmas Markets: Christmas markets tour
• Christmas Lights:  Christmas Lights Double-decker bus tour.
• West End Christmas Shows: Elf the musical
• Winter Wonderland: Tickets sold online here

Other Things to do during the Christmas Season

1. Santa's Grotto at the Queen's House 
2. The Snowman
3. North Pole Express Tour with Santa
4. The Great Christmas Feast

Next Week

Join me as we chat about our favourite family destination for Christmas, where we will be discussing Hakuba! A true white Christmas that we love so much, we will be heading there again this year!

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpat.com - I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review on your podcast platform - it really helps others discover the show.

Send us Fan Mail

Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation 

Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel 

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel 

TikTok: Truly Expat Travel 

Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

Episode 16: Carm Gleeson - Mexico

This Week's Chat Join me as I sit down with Carm Gleeson, an Aussie expat living in Singapore, who shares her absolute favourite holiday destination: Mexico. We dive deep into what makes this place so special and why it's become her go-to escape.

What We Discuss

• Why Mexico is her favourite destination: How she ended up on the food tour
• Discovering Mexico: The story behind her first visit and what drew her back
• The Highlights:
  • Must-visit spots and hidden gems
  • Local cuisine and dining recommendations
  • Cultural experiences not to miss
  • Best time to visit and seasonal tips
• Practical Bits: Getting there, where to visit and tour recommendation
• Local Insights: What the guidebooks don't tell you

Key Takeaways

• Carm's top tip for first-time visitors to Mexico
• The one thing you absolutely mustn't miss
•  Frequently mistaken belief about Mexico

Mentioned in This Episode

• Food Recommendation: Mole
• Tour Recommendation: Premium Mexico City to Oaxaca
• Articles on Mexico: Discover the Culinary Gems of Mexico City in 2025: Unveiling the Top 5 Must-Try Restaurants!

Connect with Carm Gleeson

• Instagram: Carm Gleeson

Next Week I'll be chatting with Maria about their love affair with Zakynthos - you won't want to miss their stories about this beautiful Greek island.

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpat.com - I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review on your podcast platform - it really helps others discover the show.

Send us Fan Mail

Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation 

Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel 

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel 

TikTok: Truly Expat Travel 

Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

Episode 15: Julie Talbot -A Modern Journey Along the Ancient Silk Road

This Week's Chat Join me as I sit down with Julie Talbot, a British expat travelling the world, who shares her incredible journey along the legendary Silk Road. We dive deep into what makes this historic route so captivating and why it's become one of her most transformative travel experiences.

About Julie: is an ex-expat turned global nomad. After spending 12 years in the UAE with her husband’s work, Julie and her family took the leap into full-time travel. While worldschooling her children, she also runs a their UK property business, proving that you don’t need to be on the ground to grow a UK property portfolio.

What We Discuss

• Julie's Expat Journey: How she ended up on the Silk Road and her passion for off-the-beaten-path travel
• Discovering the Silk Road: The story behind her decision to tackle this epic route and what drew her to this historic journey

The Highlights: 

• Must-visit cities along the route
• Incredible architecture and UNESCO World Heritage site
• Local cuisine experiences 
• Best time to travel the route and seasonal considerations

Local Insights: What the guidebooks don't tell you about traveling this ancient trade route

Key Takeaways

• Julie's top tip for first-time Silk Road travellers: embrace the slower pace of travel
• The one thing you absolutely mustn't miss: staying in a traditional yurt
• How to experience the Silk Road respectfully and authentically
• Common mistakes travellers make and how to avoid them (especially around cultural sensitivities)

Mentioned in This Episode

• Accommodation: Traditional guesthouses, yurt stays, boutique hotels in historic centers
• Must-Try Foods: Plov (pilaf), lagman noodles, samsa pastries, fresh pomegranates and cherry juice
• Attractions: Registan Square in Samarkand, Itchan Kala in Khiva, Ark Fortress in Bukhara
• Useful Apps/Websites: 
• Evisa option
• Airalo for your esim 
• 3 Simple Steps To Location Freedom & UK Property 
• Connect with Julie Talbot
  • Instagram: @julierosetalbot
  • Facebook @Julie.talbot.359
  • Property Info: Views from Overseas With Ease
• Next Week I'll be chatting with Carm Gleeson about her love affair with Mexico - you won't want to miss her stories about her food tour.

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpat.com- I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review on your podcast platform- it really helps others discover the show.

Send us Fan Mail

Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation 

Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel 

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel 

TikTok: Truly Expat Travel 

Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

Episode 14: Paula's Solo Adventure - Nîmes

Join me as I share my recent solo travel experience to Nîmes, the stunning Roman city in southern France. I'll take you through my latest trip to this incredible destination and explain why this ancient city has captured my heart.

Episode Overview In this episode, I share my personal travel experience exploring Nîmes, from the spectacular Roman monuments to the charming Provençal atmosphere. I'll give you all the insider tips I picked up during my visit and why this gem should definitely be on your travel radar.

What I Discuss

• My journey to discovering Nîmes and what drew me there
• The incredible Roman heritage and must-see monuments
• Local dining experiences and Provençal flavours
• Cultural highlights and hidden gems I discovered
• Practical tips for getting around and making the most of your visit
• Nimes city pass for entrance into all the museums 

Key Takeaways

• Why Nîmes is perfect for history lovers and culture enthusiasts
• The one Roman monument you absolutely cannot miss
• How to experience authentic French life away from the tourist crowds

Mentioned in This Episode

• Trains to Nîmes
• Restaurant and café highlights such as Le Napo and Le Questel
• Serge de Nimes - The best jeans you'll find
• Latest articles - 10 day itinerary and Nimes Hidden gems

Next Week: I'll be chatting with Julie Talbot about her incredible journey along the Silk Road - you won't want to miss her stories about this epic adventure through Central Asia's most fascinating destinations.

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review - it helps others discover the show.

Send us Fan Mail

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel 

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel 

TikTok: Truly Expat Travel 

Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

Episode 13: Amanda Dunbar on the Enchanting Town of Salemi

This Week's Chat

Join me as I sit down with Amanda Dunbar, an American expat living in Sicily, who shares their absolute favourite holiday destination: Salemi. We dive deep into what makes this place so special and why it's become their go-to escape.

What We Discuss

• Amanda's Expat Journey: How she ended up in Salemi and her travel background
• Discovering Salemi: The story behind her first visit and what drew her back

The Highlights:

• Must-visit spots and hidden gems 
• Local cuisine and dining recommendations
• What made the decision to move there
• What makes the local community so special.
   
• Practical Bits: Getting there, where to stay
• Local Insights: What the guidebooks don't tell you

Key Takeaways

• Amanda's top tip for first-time visitors to Salemi
• The one thing you absolutely mustn't miss
• How to experience Salemi like a local
• Common mistakes travellers make and how to avoid them
• Busiate pasta festival information

Mentioned in This Episode

• Live like a local: If you are considering moving to Salemi, Amanda takes you through some homes for sale along with places to visit, and things to do
• Must Try Local Cuisine: Busiate pasta and Salemi Spritz
• Attractions: Segesta Archeological Park 

Useful Websites and Apps: 

• Evisa option
• Airalo for your esim 
• DiscoverCars for your Car hire options

Connect with Amanda Dunbar

• Tiktok - Amanda in Italy
• Youtube - Abcuinitaly
• Instagram - aadst11

Next Week

I'll be chatting with Julie Talbot about their love affair with this part of the world - you won't want to miss her stories about The Silk Road.

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpattravel- I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review on your podcast platform- it really helps other expats discover the show.

Send us Fan Mail

Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation 

Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel 

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel 

TikTok: Truly Expat Travel 

Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

Episode 12: Gerrit Van den Berg - Amsterdam & The Netherlands

This Week's Chat Join me as I sit down with Gerrit van den Berg, a Dutch local and founder of Hidden Holland, who shares his passion for showing travellers the authentic Netherlands beyond the tourist traps. We dive deep into what makes Amsterdam and the wider Netherlands so special and why authentic local experiences trump typical tourist activities every time.

What We Discuss

• Gerrit's story: What makes HiddenHolland different to other tours 
• Discovering the Real Netherlands: Why real authentic experiences are what motivates him
• The Highlights:
  • Hidden gems in Amsterdam away from the crowds
  • Charming medieval cities like Amersfoort and Deventer
  • Cultural insights into Dutch directness and local customs
  • Postcard-perfect photography spots tourists miss
• Practical Bits: Where to find authentic experiences along with local tips
• Local Insights: "Those things you only know when you live somewhere" - the insider knowledge that transforms ordinary trips

Key Takeaways

• The one thing you absolutely mustn't miss: Exploring beyond Amsterdam to discover medieval Dutch cities
• Discovering the best time to travel to the Netherlands.
• How to experience the Netherlands like a local: Focus on authentic cultural experiences rather than tourist clichés
• Common mistakes travellers make and how to overcome them.

Mentioned in This Episode

• Best time to travel: Most people do not realise that it is a all year round destination.
• Attractions: Medieval cities, the (real) Tulip season, hidden Amsterdam gems.
• Useful Apps/Websites: 
  • Hidden Holland - hiddenholland.com - Comprehensive guide to authentic Dutch experiences
  • Truly Expat Travel - My 7 day Itinerary

Connect with Gerrit van den Berg

• Website: hiddenholland.com
• Services: Travel advice, vacation coaching, private tours
• Contact: Available for 1-on-1 video calls to create personalised Netherlands itineraries

Next Week I'll be chatting with Amanda about her love affair with Salemi - you won't want to miss her story about how she ended up moving there fulltime. 

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpat.com - I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review - it really helps other expats discover the show.

Send us Fan Mail

Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation 

Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel 

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel 

TikTok: Truly Expat Travel 

Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

Episode 11: Sri Lanka Adventures with Patsy Tranter

In this episode, I chat with Patsy Tranter about our amazing group trip to Sri Lanka in January. We share our experiences exploring this incredible island nation and why it's a must-visit destination.

What I Discuss

Our Sri Lankan adventure highlights including visits to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, ancient temples, tea plantations, and stunning beaches. We discuss the group tour experience and our unforgettable visit to the world-famous Smoke & Bitters bar in Hiriketiya.

Practical Bits:

• Best time to visit
• What to pack
• How to get to Sri Lanka
• Things we wish we knew before visiting

Local Insights:

• Must-try Sri Lankan cuisine 
• Cave temples
• Wildlife safari opportunities
• Village experiences
• Our experience at Smoke & Bitters - ranked No. 14 on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025

Key Takeaways

Sri Lanka offers incredible diversity in a compact area - from ancient culture to pristine nature. The friendly locals and rich heritage make it perfect for group travel, and spots like Smoke & Bitters show how the country is gaining international recognition.

Useful Apps/Websites:

• Truly Expat Travel 
• E-Visa Option
• Airalo for your esim option
• TourRadar for group tours

Next Week I'll be chatting with Gerrit Vandeberg from Hidden Holland to chat  about Amsterdam, where he runs personalise tours, so you get the best out of your time in the Netherlands. 

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpat.com- I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review- it helps others discover the show.

Send us Fan Mail

Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation 

Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel 

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel 

TikTok: Truly Expat Travel 

Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

Episode 10: Malta's Hidden Treasures - A Mediterranean Gem

In this episode, I'm sharing my recent adventure to Malta, Europe's best-kept secret that completely stole my heart. From ancient temples older than Stonehenge to crystal-clear lagoons that rival the Caribbean, Malta packs an incredible amount of history and beauty into just 316 square kilometres.

What I Discuss

• Exploring Valletta's Baroque splendour as Europe's smallest capital
• Stepping back in time in the Silent City of Mdina
• Exploring the historic Three Cities - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua

Practical Bits:

Ferry from Sicily:

• Virtu Ferries operates the main route from Pozzallo to Valletta
• Up to 4 daily crossings in summer, 3 in winter, with crossing time of 1 hour 45 minutes
• Book in advance for best prices, especially during summer months

Best Time to Visit:

• May through October for warmest weather (25-30°C)
• Shoulder months (April-May, September-October) for fewer crowds
• Malta enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually

Local Insights:

Language & Culture:

• Both Maltese and English are official languages - super accessible for English speakers
• Predominantly Catholic with conservative values - dress modestly in churches
• Sunday mornings see many attractions closed for church services

Food & Drink:

• Cheese pastizzi
• Maltese Ravioli
• Try local specialties and enjoy generous portions at reasonable prices

Key Takeaways

1. Malta exceeds expectations - incredible history and beauty packed into a tiny area
2. Book prehistoric sites in advance - Hypogeum allows only 80 visitors daily
3. Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in just 316 square kilometres
4. Perfect for island hopping - Malta, Gozo, and Comino each offer unique experiences
5. Excellent value destination compared to other Mediterranean hotspots
6. Ferry from Sicily is easy - great way to combine both destinations

Useful Apps/Websites:

• Truly Expat Travel - 10 of Malta's Hidden Gems
• Ferryscanner - Sicily to Malta ferry bookings
• GetYourGuide - tours and skip-the-line tickets
• Airalo - for an automatic 15% discount for all new users

Next Week

I'll be chatting with Patsy about our "girls" trip to Sri Lanka, why she fell in love with the destination and why this trip was different to anything she's been on before? 

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpat.com - I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review - it helps others discover the show.

Send us Fan Mail

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel 

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel 

TikTok: Truly Expat Travel 

Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

Episode 9: Exploring Turkey with Kylie Tchebykin

This Week's Chat Join me as I sit down with Kylie Tchebykin who shares her absolute favourite holiday destination: Turkey. We dive deep into what makes this place so special and why it's become their go-to escape.

What We Discuss

• Kylie's Journey: How her love of travel brought her to Turkey (over and over again)
• Discovering Turkey: The story behind her first visit and what drew her back
• The Highlights:
  • Must-visit spots and hidden gems
  • Local cuisine and dining recommendations
  • Cultural experiences not to miss
  • Best time to visit and seasonal tips
• Practical Bits: Getting there and where to stay.
• Local Insights: What the guidebooks don't tell you

Key Takeaways

• Kylie's top tip for first-time visitors to Turkey
• The one thing you absolutely mustn't miss
• Common mistakes travellers make and how to avoid them

Mentioned in This Episode

• Istanbul: Tour of Istanbul
• Cappadocia: Hotel air balloon
• Bodrum: Turkish Baths

Connect with Kylie Tchebykin

• Just_enough_sparkle

Next Week I'll be chatting about my latest trip to Malta - you won't want to miss my stories about the highlights of my trip.

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpat.com- I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform - it really helps others discover the show.

Send us Fan Mail

Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation 

Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel 

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel 

TikTok: Truly Expat Travel 

Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂