I sit down with Ross to discuss our experiences of what it is like to spend Christmas Day away from home, when you are travelling/backpacking. We discuss the build up, the day itself, the good, the bad, the weird and whether the juice is worth the squeeze. Is travelling worth missing Christmas day for? Available on iTunes, rjkworldtour.com and podcast addict.
Tag: backpacking podcast
#103 – BJJGlobetrotters
BJJGlobetrotters founder Christian Graugart joins me to discuss how his Jiu Jitsu orientated round the world trip inspired him to start a network, which today has 10,000 members, and enables people to train BJJ around the world for free.
#102 – Is Milford Sound going down the Toilet?
In this trending travelling topics episode, I discuss
- Why Backpacker favourite Milford Sound has become number 2 in some visitor’s opinions
- There’s developments on the Backpacker Tax and farm work fronts
- How Elon Musk plans to help us travel anywhere in the world in less than an hour for the price of a standard air fare
Available on iTunes, rjkworldtour.com or Podcast Addict
#100 – Around the World in 80 Throws
2 time Commonwealth Judo Champion and Jiu Jitsu Black Belt Craig Ewers joins me to discuss how Martial Arts have taken him all over the world though training and competing. Craig shares many tales from Japan, Russia, Brazil and the USA. Hear about a humbling experience in a remote Japanese town, sharing a room with a Chechen rebel, why Georgian Food should be on everyone’s bucket list, tutelage from the very same coach of one Ronda Rousey, and much, much more
#99 – The Selfie that could land you in Jail
Hayley joins me to discuss:
- Why taking a Beer Selfie in Thailand could put you in prison
- A Backpacker Hostel in New Zealand that has taken extreme measures to improve the behavior of it’s guests
- And a potential Nudist Beach on the horizon in Saudi Arabia
#98 – Latvia & Lithuania
Phil Taffley returns to the show to talk about a recent trip to the unheralded Latvia and Lithuania
#97 – Begpackers and Buses
The Kid is Back!!! This week I discuss
- A recent video demonstrating some poor customer service on a Vietnamese tourist bus
- Thailand’s revolt against Begpackers
- Why people immediately stand up once plane has landed and the unfasten seatbelt light has come on, when they are in a window seat in row 30
#96 – Return to London
I recall my 1st trip back to London since my night at London Bridge during the unfortunate terrorist attacks. The weekend was very much travel and podcast related. I also cover some of the latest news coming out of the travel and backpacking world.
#95 – 5 Ways To Save Money in Iceland
Nope, this is not about buying half price Vienettas, Hayley joins me to review our recent trip to Iceland and discuss 5 different ways we saved some serious money. As well as some budgeting tips, hear about:
- How this trip nearly didn’t happen
- Experiencing Iceland’s record snowfall since 1937
- Why you shouldn’t necessarily visit the famous Blue Lagoon
- Taking a Game of Thrones tour led by one of the actors
#93 – Perspective on Manchester Bombings/ UK General Election
I take a look at how past experiences abroad have given me a greater understanding of the fallout from the Manchester tragedy and the upcoming UK general election.
#92 – Trending Travelling Topics
On this weeks episode I discuss
- the top 10 most liveble cities in the world according to a recent study
- why you should travel by following your passion
- how more backpackers are visiting Tasmania
#91 – Trending Travelling Topics
On this weeks episode, I discuss the latest stories coming out of the travel and backpacking world. Hear about:
- Backpackers who are unable to claim on their travel insurance for injuries in scooter crashes around South East Asia
- The future of tours to Leo Di Caprio’s ‘The Beach’
- A German Backpacker who was eaten alive by bed bugs in a Sydney Hostel
#90 – Trending Travelling Topics
I talk about the biggest stories of the week coming out of the travel and backpacking world. Hear about:
- The end of the 457 visa in Australia. Why the government are tightening up sponsorship and how it will affect future applicants
- Bangkok banning the sale of “street food”. Is this travelling favourite really going to end?
- The rise of the “Beg”packer. Find out what a begpacker is and why they are polarising
#89 – The 2 and a half year “gap year”
On this week’s episode, I am joined by Instagram influencer Jorden Tually. Jorden details his adventures in Indonesia, his visits to all but 1 island of Hawaii, his road trips accross America, his times working at a Canadian summer camp and of course, his back garden of Australia. Jorden is known for his creative ways on how to travel on a budget and shares some of his secrets with us. He can be found on Facebook, Instagram and youtube all “Jorden Tually”.
#87 – Trending Travelling Topics
This week I talk about an intriguing article about how Backpackers are avoiding Canberra like the plague. Much of this is because of listening to opinions of fellow travelers but should you be listening to opinions or should you be finding out for yourself?
Also farm work gets some more airtime on the podcast. Last year Mia Ayliffe-Chung’s, a backpacker from the UK ,was killed whilst doing her regional work for her second year Australian working holiday visa. Hear about the work that her mother is doing on trying to make farm work fairer for backpackers.
#86 Trending Travelling Topics
On this week’s episode, I talk about the latest news in the travel and backpacking world. First up is an unfortunate tale about an English backpacker who was denied her second year working holiday visa for Australia, because her employer did not pay her enough. Hear about how you can avoid being in the same position. I cover an update on Brexit and what implications it may have on travel to and from the UK. Also, the incredible story of a young Australian who fought a crocodile, all in the name of love.
#85 Trending Travelling Topics
In one of the most bizarre stories of the year, hear about how a French woman has become a fugitive of New Zealand for taking a poo in the street. Also, should all these negative news stories of Backpackers put you off travelling to certain places? I discuss this as well as addressing the controversy from last week’s episode.
#84 – Trending Travelling Topics
After discussing my trip to in to the incredible Iceland, I return to the podcast with fire. Here about the future of European travel for Americans and how it could become more complicated #nice1don. I then move to a rant about disgraceful backpackers who steal from the places they visit and then brag about it on social media. Finally, do you want to get a selfie with a tiger in Thailand? If so, you may want think twice thanks to one establishment.
#83 – Trending Travelling Topics
This week, I cover a story about a British Backpacker who was abducted by a Swedish Backpacker who claimed he was half man half alien. Good friends you make travelling are often people you have known for little time so can you trust them? What are the best ways to avoid trouble. Also covered is an amazing opportunity to travel Europe for 6 months, all expenses paid, and all that you need is a solid Instagram game. Moving on, with all the coverage of the Trump travel ban at the moment, I talk about a non political story of the situation and how it is impacting tourism in the US. Finally, what unusual proposal is the Icelandic president putting forward. Tune in and find out
#82 -5 Continents Ridden, 35,000 Miles Sailed
Author of 10 travel books Bruce Curran joins me to talk about his vast experiences. Bruce has done it all, from a motorcycle trip from England to South Africa through 4 Continents, Sailing 35000 miles across the the Ocean and even striking up an unlikely friendship with the leader of Myanmar. Tune in to hear a selection of Bruce’s inspiring adventures and his mission to help protect the environment. His books can be purchased at authortravel.com and his webinars are available at marketmasterclass.com
#81 – Trending Travelling Topics
I discuss the latest news from the travel and backpacking world. Hear about the couple who have got married many times over in some of the word’s most desirable places, and have paid less than the cost of the average wedding, for all of them. Also, a tragic death in the Northern Territory brings me to talk about the feeling of “invincibility” that backpackers often get, and how it should be managed. Finally, how on this past Australia day, 2 unlikely Irish people gained their Australian citizenship.
#79 – The 193 Club
Famed travel blogger Henrik Jeppesen joins me for this episode. Henrik managed to visit every country on the planet, all before he turned 28. With all that experience to call upon, he discusses his favourite places and dives deep into his obsession with travel. Henrik discusses some of the most dangerous places he has visited including Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria. He specialises and traveling the world at minimal cost and he shares some of his secrets on how to travel cheaply. He can be contacted on twitter: @henriktravel
#78 – Trending Travelling Topics
I talk about what’s been happening in the travelling and backpacking world this week. I return to a story discussed a few weeks ago about Chris Porter, a British Backpacker who was facing deportation from Australia despite his heroic actions. Hear about how that story has developed. Also covered is another British Backpacker who was in the news, but for all the wrong reasons. Hear about what his excuse was for videoing women in changing rooms in Queensand. And finally I discuss the journey of possibly the world’s oldest backpacker, a 72 year old woman.
#77 – Trending Travelling Topics
I discuss recent events that have been happening in the travel and backpacking universe. Hear about the Christmas day party that left Coogee Beach in an unfortunate state and a freak accident on a Fraser Island trip that left a handful of unlucky travelers without some vital possessions. Also for £3000 and all expenses paid, would you go on a cruise around New York and the Caribbean for 3 weeks and all that you’d have to do is take photos? Somebody will be given this opportunity. Find out how in this episode.
#76 – From Melbourne to Manila
Derek of Deztreks.com joins me to discuss the life he has created for himself in the Philippines. 13 years ago, Derek made the switch from living in Melbourne to The Philippines where he has immersed himself into the countries culture and has spent that time exploring the great places the country has to offer. ‘Dezza’ covers a wide range of topics including the best places to see, how to succeed as an expat and why Manny Pacquiao may not have the influence he hopes to have.
#75 – Christmas Away From Home
One of the most challenging things about travelling for an extended period of time or living abroad is spending Christmas away from your family and friends. Ross joins me for a conversation about what it is like to experience this and whether or not it is worth missing Christmas in favour of Backpacking or living elsewhere.
#74 -Luxembourg Anybody?
We discuss a spontaneous trip to Luxembourg. Find out why the small country might have more to offer than people tell you. We cover everything from the Prime Minister who shops with the locals and a truly spectacular castle, to a peculiar sounding beer and doors that open the wrong way. Find out about an unusual American attraction that can be found on the outskirts of the capital Is it worth a visit? Tune in and find out.
#73 – Teaching English in China
Ross joins me to discuss the 6 months that he lived and worked in Beijing. He delivers an honest account about all the good and bad things he experienced. From getting a job, to adapting to eastern culture, to avoiding scams, we cover a large amount of topics. Ross drops some incredible Chinese knowledge bombs on us including how to avoid eating shit, literally.
#72 – Trending Travelling Topics
Show regulars Phil Taffley and Dan Webster join me to discuss this weeks travel news. We talk about the sale of Bondi Backpackers for a staggering $18m. Also, the case of Chris Porter, a British backpacker who broke both ankles escaping murderous knifeman’s hostel rampage. He may be deported he can’t finish the work required to extend his visa. On top of this, we reveal the lengths backpackers will go to, to extend their visas and establish the wolrd’s top 5 most famous beaches.
#70 – Ridin’ Solo
With Solo travel continually increasing in popularity, I recall my experiences of it. People always think that it is so daunting. I explain why it may be better than travelling with a companion. Just because you are traveling alone, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will be lonely.
#68 – Trending Travelling Topics
We discuss this week’s travel news. Which member of One Direction recently traveled around South East Asia. What are the new changes to the Australia working holiday visa?Will you be entitled to a free interrail pass? Did you know you can study for free in Denmark if you are an EU citizen?
#67 – My “it’s complicated” relationship with London
London has provided me with some incredible moments during my lifetime. However, it has also given me some not so good moments too. I rationally reflect on some of these times, discuss why you shouldn’t necessarily judge a place by the experience you have and revel my stance on the place these days.
#66 – Japan, Tokyo, Hiroshima and Pokemon Go
Dan returns to the podcast to discuss his trip to Japan. We talk about The Bullet Train, the bright lights of Tokyo, Hiroshima and even the home of Pokemon. Find out why 2019 or 2020 would be the ideal time to visit or maybe it wouldn’t. Tune in and decide for yourself
#65 – All in a year
On the day before my birthday, I reflect on an eventful year that had me living in 3 countries and travelling in 10. I think about what went well, what didn’t and what I want to strive for in the coming year
#64 – Working on a Cruise Ship
Dan joins me to relive his days of working on a Disney Cruise Ship. What was meant to be a 4 month stint turned into an 18 month adventure. From the Bahamas to Alaska, Dan talks about the places he saw, why he extended his stay and how Disney’s high standards gave him some invaluable experiences.
#63 -2014 World Cup in Brazil
James Howland, Author of The Palace Addiction (available on Amazon) and star of Fan TV joins the podcast to share his experience of the 2014 World Cup. James shares his experience which includes a token disappointing England performance. He also shares a terrifying story from the 2016 European Championships where he was right in thick of the Russian Hooligan attacks.
#62 – NFL UK, when America comes to London
After a listener gave me tickets to the NFL game between Jacksonville Jaguars Indianapolis Colts at Wembley, I reflect on the game. Usually, to experience new cultures, you have to go to a new place to see them. In this case, the culture came to me. I discuss this point as well as the game, the entertainment value and how segregating fans isn’t necessarily a sign of weakness.
#61 – The Big Reunion
I discuss reuniting with a friend who I had not seen for 4 years. When I saw him, within 5 minutes, things were as they were previously. In this episode I talk about how although you will miss your nearest and dearest if you are out exploring the world, it shouldn’t necessarily be a factor in your decision to travel.
#60 – Hawaii, Escape from Waikiki Beach
I discuss my trip to Hawaii that I took earlier this year. I enjoyed seeing Waikiki Beach but I found that it was a huge tourist trap. Many people I spoke to never got out of Waikiki and so never saw the best parts of Hawaii. I was fortunate enough to see the “Big Island” and this is a truly amazing place. I talk about swimming with Sea Turtles, active volcanoes, nudist beaches, black sand beaches and much more.
#59 – Moment 4 Life
After being inspired by a song, I got thinking about the some of the great moments I have had in my life. I recall one in particular that happened in Australia. After months of failure, a huge turning occurred. A moment I will cherish forever.
#58 – Wrestling Memories
After a recent trip to watch WWE Live, me and Hayley sat down to review our experience of the pro wrstling event. From Bret”the Hitman Hart and the Montreal Screwjob to Hulk Hogan joing the NWO, we also recall our favourite wrestlers and storylines from back in the day. We go on to describe what we would be like if we were in the WWE, discussing what we would wear, our entrance music and what our characters would be like.
#57 – 9/11 Terrorist Attacks, gaining perspective
On the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, I recall where I was and what I was doing when I found out about the infamous plane crashes into the World Trade Center. I discuss how I discovered a greater perspective of the tragedy when I spent 2 summers in Marlboro, New Jersey, just 1 hour away from New York City. During those summers, people from that community shared their intense, and deep stories with me about their day on 9/11/01 and how it impacted their lives. I also had the honor of meeting a fireman from the NYFD who was there that day.
#56 – Canada Working Holiday
Richard Poole joins me to discuss living in one of the world’s most livable cities, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Rich managed to immerse himself into Canadian culture and also explore some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. He talks, jobs, visas, the best way to settle in a new place and much more.
#55 – New Experiences
When was the last time you tried something new? I talk about the benefit of trying new things by recounting 5 new experiences I have had within the last week. I avenged my high school art classes, returned to a former passion and discovered an enjoyable way of giving back. Hear about an upcoming experience that I initially wrestled with the idea of before realising that it could be a slobber knocker.
#54 – Wollongong, living somewhere else
Simon joins me to talk about his 3 years in Wollongong, a town south of Sydney in New South Wales, Australia. Simon made an effort to immerse himself in Australian culture and talks about what he learned about a different way of life. We discuss how Australians seem to be a lot more laid back, how leaving the beaten track is crucial and most importantly, getting away from what you know and trying something new.
#53 – Invest in Experiences, not Possesions
I am a firm believer of paying for great experiences and in this episode, I talk about why. Hear about a chain of events that included a Samsung Galaxy S7, a Youtube video and a Seal concert that lead me to my conclusions.
#50 – UnBALIvable
On this landmark 50th episode of the podcast, Jacquie joins me to talk about productive things you can do in Bali. Hear about different temples, activities and volcanoes in Ubud, Seminyak, Kuta and other places on the island. In a dramatic tale, Jacquie reveals how losing all her money and cards on an unfamiliar island lead her to a local underground strip club. As well as that we discuss sunsets and how I have come to despise them.
#49 -2 1/2 Years in 2 Bags part ii
This is the second part of my conversation with Gaz Davies (part i available in episode #46). Gaz talks about his unlikely job in an aboriginal community. He talks about how their culture is so different to anything he had ever experienced and recalls some wild stories. We also share bizarre tales from journeys between places. The good, the bad, the crazy, and the ‘how the F am I still alive’.
#48 – What The PhÓ Travel Podcast
Nick and Amy from What The PhÓ Travel Podcast join me to discuss all things travel and backpacking. They discuss why India is their favourite country and why Australia is not. Also, a new found appreciation of Europe and their upcoming travel themed wedding.
What The PhÓ Travel Podcast is available on iTunes
https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-the-pho-travel-podcast/id1023230544?mt=2
They can be contacted on Twitter: @PhoPodcast
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