Travel Goals Podcast

Epizody

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  Why you must visit San Antonio Texas during Fiesta Festival for parades, culture and food 22.06.2026 43min

  Planning a trip to San Antonio, Texas? Find out why you must visit during the multi-day Fiesta San Antonio festival, which fills the city with a kaleidoscope of colour, parades and live music. Dating back to 1891, this 'party with a purpose' features over 100 events, ranging from vibrant river and street parades with decorated floats to buzzing neighbourhood block parties, drawing millions of visitors while raising funds for local nonprofits.   In this immersive, on-location episode, we'll dive into what makes Fiesta San Antonio so special by speaking with the locals who organise and love these events. We'll be on the ground exploring signature, big-ticket events during Fiesta, including NIOSA, a cultural block party, the Battle of Flowers Parade - the founding event of Fiesta and the second-largest daytime parade in the US and the King William Fair, a family-friendly street festival.   We'll also learn more about how San Antonio hosts a vibrant year-round calendar of cultural, culinary, and music festivals that highlight the city's rich Tex-Mex heritage. Top annual celebrations range from massive city-wide parties to more intimate cultural gatherings that you should plan your visit around.   Along the way, we'll be meeting with plenty of locals who live and breathe San Antonio as they tell you the story of one of the USA's fastest-growing cities and why you need to add it to your travel bucket list now.   Huge thanks to Visit San Antonio and TTM World for supporting and collaborating with the Travel Goals Podcast.   Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nickname Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and presenter.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website to get travel guides and find new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook. Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Welcome to San Antonio: Teaser trailer for our upcoming travel guide series 04.06.2026 6min

  Planning a trip to San Antonio, Texas? We have you covered with our upcoming series of immersive San Antonio travel guides, all recorded on location. In this teaser trailer, we'll give you a sneak peek at our upcoming episodes, all about San Antonio, USA.   Founded in 1718, San Antonio is famous for its rich heritage, historic Alamo, and the iconic 15-mile Riverwalk, packed with historic sites. San Antonio blends Spanish, German, and American roots with a distinctive cowboy-meets-culture energy.   Foodies can also revel in its rise from Spanish outpost and frontier town to a UNESCO city of gastronomy famed for its dining, but whether you're exploring the city by plate or on the buzzing streets, one thing is apparent. What makes it special is the blend of cultures you'll find here.   Over the next few episodes of Travel Goals, we'll be discovering arts and cultures, learning about the Missions, including the famed Alamo, experiencing Fiesta, a multi-day festival that fills the city with a kaleidoscope of colour, parades, and live music, and attending our first rodeo.   Listen as we traverse the Riverwalk, the gold standard of waterside struts, where you can escape the urban buzz beneath a shaded canopy of 400-year-old cypress trees. Hungry? We'll dive into San Antonio's food scene and see why this gastro city isn't defined solely by Tex-Mex and chilli.   Along the way, we'll be meeting with plenty of locals who live and breathe San Antonio as they tell you the story of one of the USA's fastest-growing cities and why you need to add it to your travel bucket list now.   Huge thanks to Visit San Antonio and TTM World for supporting and collaborating with the Travel Goals Podcast.    ************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nickname Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and presenter.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website to get travel guides and find new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook. Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Naples city break guide: What to see, eat and do and why now is the time to go 26.04.2026 34min

  Planning a Naples city break? We've got you covered. The birthplace of pizza and the largest city in southern Italy, Naples is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating places in Europe.  The historical centre of Naples is the largest in Europe and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. It's packed full of ancient churches and staggeringly large catacombs, and Pompeii is just a short drive away. Along with its history and arts scene, Naples is known for its food culture, including wood-fired, doughy pizza, Ragù Napoletano, and affordable street food. Join presenter Portia Jones and producer Luke Jones as we share the best things to do in Naples, from a street-food tour and a sunset spritz to opulent palaces, museums, and churches filled with treasures.  You'll also hear about Mercure's Discover Local program, including their 50th Birthday Bucket List Edition, spotlighting 50 incredible food and drink experiences designed to help you feel like a local. From riverside punts to historic quadrangles and winding streets, Oxford is a city to wander, taste, and explore. Join us for an immersive guide to the best sights, eats, and experiences in this unforgettable city. Huge thanks to Mercure Hotels for supporting this episode of Travel Goals. Visit https://mercure.accor.com/ and start planning your next trip. Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nickname Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and presenter.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website to get travel guides and find new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook. Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.    
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  Oxford city break guide: What to see, eat and do and why now is the time to go 12.02.2026 51min

  Planning an Oxford city break? We've got you covered. A powerhouse of learning for 800 years, Oxford is home to Britain's oldest university, leafy botanical gardens, and historic pubs full of character. On this fun, on-location episode, we explain why now is the ideal time to explore Oxford and stay at Mercure Oxford Hawkwell House Hotel, a stylish four-star hotel set in the picturesque village of Iffley.  With three acres of private gardens, chic rooms, and excellent dining, it's the perfect base for discovering both the city and its surroundings, including the Chilterns, the Cotswolds, and Blenheim Palace. Join presenter Portia Jones and producer Luke Jones as we share the best things to do in Oxford, from Harry Potter filming locations and quirky boutiques to markets, independent cafes, bars, and restaurants.  You'll also hear about Mercure's Discover Local program, including their 50th Birthday Bucket List Edition, spotlighting 50 incredible food and drink experiences designed to help you feel like a local. From riverside punts to historic quadrangles and winding streets, Oxford is a city to wander, taste, and explore.  Join us for an immersive guide to the best sights, eats, and experiences in this unforgettable city. Huge thanks to Mercure Hotels for supporting this episode of Travel Goals. Visit https://mercure.accor.com/ and start planning your next trip. ************ Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nickname Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and presenter.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website to get travel guides and find new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook. Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Porto city break guide: What to see, eat and do and why now is the time to go 20.01.2026 34min

  Planning a Porto city break? Explore a riverside city of cobbled streets, iconic bridges and colourful azulejo tiles and find out why Porto is the perfect weekend break. Here, the Douro River carves through the centre and in the medieval Ribeira (riverside) district, narrow cobbled streets wind past merchants' houses and charming cafes, and there is so much to explore. On this on-location episode, we explain why now is the ideal time to visit Porto and stay at Mercure Porto Centro Aliados, a four-star hotel right in the heart of the city. Its central location puts you within easy walking distance of the main sights, and we reveal a surprising feature that sets it apart from other city centre hotels. Join presenter Portia Jones and producer Luke Jones as we share the best things to do in Porto, including where to eat, drink and wander. You'll also hear more about Mercure's Discover Local concept, designed to help visitors feel part of the neighbourhood and experience the city beyond the usual tourist trails. From the river-spanning bridges to narrow streets lined with wine caves, bakeries and riverside restaurants, Porto is a city of layers. Every climb and descent uncovers new corners, views and flavours. Join us on an immersive audio guide around the city as we bring you the best things to do, see, and eat in Porto with our bumper Porto Travel Guide.  Huge thanks to Mercure Hotels for supporting this episode of Travel Goals. Visit https://mercure.accor.com/ and start planning your next trip.  ************ Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nickname Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and presenter.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website to get travel guides and find new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook. Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Why now is the best time to visit Jordan and how a small group tour makes it easier 14.01.2026 45min

  Dreaming of visiting Jordan to see archaeological wonders like Petra and the jaw-dropping landscapes of the vast Wadi Rum Desert? On this episode, we'll be discussing why now is the perfect time to visit Jordan before the crowds return, and why you should experience this welcoming country with a G Adventures small-group tour.  Join presenter Portia Jones and Producer Luke Jones on this special on-location episode to find out how fallibg visitor numbers to sites like Petra and Wadi Rum due to current misconceptions about the safety of Jordan, mean you can take advantage of fewer crowds and lower hotel rates to have an incredible, wallet-friendly adventure in a safe and friendly country.  From Roman ruins and the rose-red city of Petra to the surreal Dead Sea and women-run cafes, we took a whirlwind tour of Jordan with G Adventures as part of their GX event. They run several small group tours here that vary in length, cost, and travel style. G tours are designed to help people, places, and the planet, powered by a community tourism model you'll be hearing a lot about in this episode. In this immersive audio journey through Jordan, we speak with tour guides, local business owners, community tourism experts and journalists to dive into what's going on in Jordan right now and why it's the best time to visit with a G Adevntures tour to see ancient sites like Petra, featured in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, float in the mineral rich Dead Sea, a traditional meal at a G Adventures–supported cafe, and gain insights into the Bedouin way of life in the heart of the Jordanian desert. Huge thanks to G Adventures for supporting this episode of Travel Goals. Visit gadventures.com and start planning your Jordan adventure now. ************ Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nickname Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and presenter.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook. Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.            
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  How to travel with just hand luggage and chose the right bag to avoid airline fees 08.01.2026 34min

  Do you want to travel with just hand luggage this year and beat airline fees? Then this is the episode for you. We're chatting to travel pros to bring you the smartest hacks for choosing the right cabin bag and packing it properly, so you can travel light without compromising on style or dignity. No sock-stuffed bras. Don't wear all your clothes on the plane like Joey from Friends; instead, copy genuinely useful advice and hacks that work in this updated and re-released episode.  On the show, Sean Gresty from Cabin Max shares exactly how to choose the right cabin bag, how to stay within ever-changing airline rules, and how to avoid those dreaded bag charges at the gate.  Travel blogger Monica Stott from the Travel Hack joins us with her best packing tips, from building a capsule wardrobe to fitting everything you need into one bag without chaos. We also cover how to keep up with cabin bag size changes, the truth about packing cubes, how many shoes are too many, and how to pack toiletries efficiently when travelling with hand luggage only. If you want to travel smarter, lighter and still look like you knew what you were doing, press play. Buy your Cabin Max bag here!  ************ Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nickname Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and presenter.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook . Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Happy holidays, and what's coming to Travel Goals in 2026 24.12.2025 1min

  On this very short holiday update of Travel Goals, we wanted to drop into your feed to wish you happy holidays and thank you for all the support this year. Tune in as producer Luke and I share our excitement for the upcoming season, which kicks off in January 2026, taking you on an audio journey to destinations like Naples, Porto, Jordan, and back to the US. There will also be lively discussions with travel experts on a range of topics from travelling with kids to planning a festival break.  Whether you're looking for travel inspiration, insider tips, or just a quick festive hello, this episode is a warm welcome to what's coming next from your favourite travel pod. Don't forget to subscribe to Travel Goals now so you'll be the first to hear the new season. ***** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nickname Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and presenter.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Why Orlando is America's best foodie city: Insider's guide to Orlando's must-try food and drink spots 25.07.2025 45min

  Forget everything you thought you knew about Orlando's food scene. In this deliciously packed episode, we're diving headfirst into one of America's most surprising culinary hotspots, Orlando. The Theme Park Capital of the World is now earning serious foodie cred, with Michelin-starred restaurants, buzzing food halls, breweries and creative eats in bougie neighbourhoods.  Join hungry presenter Portia Jones and Producer Luke Jones as they eat their way through Orlando's tastiest neighbourhoods, from hip Audubon Park to buzzy Ivanhoe Village, exploring street food stalls, Michelin-recommended restaurants, and indie cafés to uncover the places locals really rate.  From pizzas, Instagram-worthy cookies and burritos the size of your head to wildly inventive fine dining and world-class cocktails, this episode is your ultimate insider's guide to Orlando's must-try foodie spots.  We also meet chefs, bartenders, food writers, and vendors who are shaking up the scene and creating a stir. Tune in for tips on the best places to eat in Orlando, what to order, and why Orlando might just be the best food city you're not talking about yet. We'll also reveal the best places to stay if food is at the heart of your trip, from luxe options like the Lake Nona Wave Hotel and the Four Seasons, to more affordable, self-catering stays like The Terraces at The Grove Resort, where you can whip up your own feast with fresh finds from the local farmers' market. This isn't just a food episode; it's a full-on flavour roadmap through a city that's rewriting the script for what American dining can be. From global cuisines and rooftop views to biscuits, burritos, and Bib Gourmands, Orlando has so much to offer beyond the incredible theme parks. Thanks to Visit Orlando for supporting this episode of Travel Goals. Visit visitorlando.com to start planning your ultimate foodie escape now. ***** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and presenter.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  A grown-up's guide to Orlando: The best theme parks, dining, wine tasting and hotels for an adult-only vacation 05.06.2025 46min

  Orlando, Florida, is the ultimate family destination, but did you know it's also an amazing adults-only vacation? Join us on an epic audio journey as we explore some of the best things to do for adults in Orlando, including top-rated dining, wine tasting, sunset kayaking, and adrenaline-pumping roller coasters.  Pack your bags and join me and producer Luke as we head to the theme park capital of the world to show you why this sun-soaked city isn't just for families; it's also the perfect grown-up getaway if you want thrill rides paired with buzzing bars, restaurants and shopping.  In this episode of Travel Goals, we're swapping character breakfasts for wine tastings, thrill rides for even bigger thrill rides and discovering a more sophisticated side to Orlando. One with sunset kayaking, indie wine bars, swish hotels and luxury dining Of course, we're still hitting the big-name parks because riding TRON Lightcycle / Run or drinking Butterbeer in Diagon Alley is just as magical when you're grown up. You can race through the raptor paddocks on the Jurassic World VelociCoaster, face the First Order on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and then hop on classic rides that bring back all the childhood nostalgia. But we're also stepping outside the parks to explore Orlando's cooler, calmer corners. Expect leafy neighbourhoods with boutique shops and culture, glass-bottom kayaking through glittering lakes, and wine tasting in bougie bars.  If you're planning a getaway, a couples' escape, a group trip, or a trip with the girls, this episode will help you plan your dream grown-up adventure in Orlando, with where to stay, play and eat. If you're looking for a fabulous hotel, Lake Nona Wave Hotel is highly recommended. Please note that since the recording at Lake Nona Wave Hotel, Haven Kitchen has now become Garni Café, and Haven Lounge has now become The Nectar Room. Make sure to check them both out.  Thanks to Visit Orlando for supporting this episode of Travel Goals. Start planning your Orlando escape at visitorlando.com now! ***** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  The Lake District you didn't know existed: Discover Cumbria's art, heritage and culture 03.04.2025 39min

  Think you know the Lake District? Think again. Join us on an epic audio journey as we peel back the layers of Cumbria to reveal a side you probably never expected—one bursting with art, heritage, and culture. When most people picture the Lake District, they see shimmering lakes, rugged fells, and charming country inns. And yes, all that is spectacular—but what if we told you this region is so much more than scenic hikes and boat trips? Beyond the well-trodden trails, Cumbria has long been a magnet for creatives, from poets and painters to musicians and makers. And it's not just about Wordsworth and his daffodils—Cumbria's cultural scene is alive and kicking.  Artists, musicians, and theatre-makers have put down roots here, turning former textile mills into buzzing creative hubs and filling historic venues with new concepts and fresh exhibits. We're stepping off the tourist trail to explore a different side of Cumbria. Think ancient abbeys, maritime museums that tell the region's shipbuilding past, and grand houses that played a key role in the early Quaker movement.  There's even an auto museum packed with classic cars and unexpected stories and vintage treasures. So, if you thought the Lake District was all about hiking boots and boat trips, get ready to see it in a whole new way. Thanks to Cumbria Tourism for supporting this episode of Travel Goals. The Let's Go Culture project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is supported by Westmorland & Furness Council. #UKSPF ***** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Boston's Best Water Adventures: Whale Watching, Duck Tours, Harbour Cruises and kayaking 21.03.2025 26min

  Boston is a city shaped by water. From its earliest Indigenous inhabitants, to its dramatic role in the American Revolution, the city's history is written in its harbours, rivers, and shorelines. But Boston's connection to the water isn't just about the past—it's alive and thriving today. Join host Portia Jones and producer Luke as they explore Boston's famous harbour and its transformation from a strategic trading port to a thriving waterfront destination. Whale tails break the surface in the waters of Stellwagen Bank, an ocean sanctuary teeming with marine life. Kayaks glide past the city skyline, offering a fresh perspective on familiar landmarks. Amphibious vehicles splash into the Charles River on a journey that blurs the line between road and water. From the buzzing harbour to Boston's best waterfront activities, we'll take you beyond the usual sights and into the heart of Boston's relationship with the sea. Along the way, you'll hear from locals who bring these waters to life through conservation, adventure, or the stories of Boston's past Thanks to Meet Boston and TTM World for supporting and collaborating with the Travel Goals podcast. Tune in to discover a side of Boston you've never seen before. ***** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Inside the Dramatic Heart of Wales: Discover Haunting History, Magical Landscapes and Spooky Legends 31.10.2024 47min

  Ready to uncover one of Wales' best-kept secrets? We're heading to the myth-filled, magical landscapes of Neath Port Talbot – the dramatic heart of Wales. In this underrated region, local legends and ghostly tales are as abundant as the picturesque valleys and cascading waterfalls. This episode is your backstage pass to the heart of Welsh myth and magic, from haunted castles and historic abbeys to Welsh folklore. Join us as we wander through Margam Castle, a Tudor Gothic Mansion rumoured to be one of the UK's most haunted spots. Feel the chill of ghostly encounters and hear the eerie tales of a long-lost gamekeeper as we explore its shadowy corners.  We'll also follow in the footsteps of Hollywood legend Richard Burton in his hometown of Pontrhydyfen – a mountain village wrapped in epic views and industrial history, with ancient bridges and a welcoming chapel with a surprising connection to Burton.  We'll share some of Wales' best-kept legends, from mischievous water horses emerging from waterfalls to the otherworldly changelings that haunt its forests. Adventure lovers will find plenty to enjoy here, with a surf-ready beach, hiking paths, and even thrilling mountain biking, all with the wild beauty of Wales as your backdrop. Neath Port Talbot may not be on everyone's itinerary, but this underrated gem is a must-see for anyone craving an authentic Welsh experience. Thanks to our partners, the Dramatic Heart of Wales, for bringing this episode to life. Buckle up for a journey that's equal parts haunting and awe-inspiring—hit play and explore Wales beyond the guidebooks! **************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Ireland: The Home of Halloween - Discover Ancient Fires, Folklore and Spooky Stories 18.10.2024 35min

  Did you know that Halloween's true origins are rooted in the ancient Celtic traditions of Ireland? This isn't just any Halloween story—this is a spooky audio journey into the heart of the Emerald Isle, where the festival we now know as Halloween began over 2,000 years ago. Join us for an immersive, spine-tingling adventure through Ireland's mystical myths, haunting folklore, and fascinating Samhain traditions.   In this special episode, we take you to County Meath, home to the Púca Festival, where history, fire, and feasting combine with the strange and mischievous spirits of the Celtic Otherworld. You'll hear the crackle of ceremonial fires and feel the chill of ghost stories as we travel to Ireland's Ancient East to uncover the secrets of Samhain, the festival marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the darker half of the year. Get ready for an epic Halloween experience! We'll introduce you to the Púca, the shape-shifting creature of Celtic lore, who embodies the chaos and mystery of this bewitching season. The Púca Festival is not just about folklore; it's a celebration of music, myth, food, and fire set against the backdrop of Ireland's most historic places, from the towering Trim Castle to the ancient Hill of Ward, where the original Samhain fires were lit centuries ago. Recorded on location, we'll take you behind the scenes of one of Ireland's most brilliant and imaginative festivals. Along the way, we'll share spooky stories, haunting legends, and our own chilling encounters as the veil between worlds thins.  This is more than just a history lesson—it's a journey into a world where the past and the present meet, where the eerie traditions of Halloween still resonate in Ireland's wild landscapes. Whether you're a Halloween enthusiast or a lover of rich cultural traditions, this episode promises to transport you to a land steeped in mystery, ghostly legends, and ancient customs that will leave you captivated. With thanks to Tourism Ireland and Irish Ferries for supporting this episode of the Travel Goals Podcast. Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Why There's No Better Time to Travel Than Right Now 28.09.2024 40min

  Are you ready to stop putting off your travel dreams? Join us on this dynamic episode as we chat with Jen Ruiz, a lawyer-turned-travel blogger who made a bold career switch and embarked on a life of full-time travel. Jen shares her inspiring story, from taking on a "12 trips in 12 months" challenge before turning 30 to transforming her life through travel. We dive into why there's no perfect time to travel, how to make your dream trips a reality, and the mindset shifts needed to overcome obstacles and book that flight! As a TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and award-winning travel journalist, Jen brings a wealth of practical and inspirational advice on how to save for travel, book affordable flights, and embrace solo adventures. She also offers invaluable tips on diversifying income streams through freelance writing, teaching, and self-publishing—all while seeing the world! Whether you're seeking to break free from routine or challenge yourself with new experiences, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable steps to start your travel journey today.  Get ready to take that leap and live your travel goals now! Order Jen's latest book 12 Trips in 12 Months and start making your solo travel magic happen! Special thanks to our partner, SafetyWing, for supporting this episode—offering affordable travel medical insurance designed for digital nomads and travellers. If you're planning your next adventure, don't forget to check them out for flexible, reliable coverage. Stay protected and explore with peace of mind—get covered by SafetyWing now! ****************************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Beyond the Freedom Trail: Inside Boston's Distinctive Neighbourhoods, Filled with Art, Culture and Cuisine 20.08.2024 41min

  Think you know Boston? Think again. In this immersive episode, we're taking you beyond the Freedom Trail and deep into Boston's most captivating neighbourhoods, where history meets modernity and local culture thrives in unexpected places. Forget the usual tourist spots—this is the Boston you've been missing. Host Portia Jones and producer Luke take you on an unforgettable journey through Boston's lesser-known spots and local favourites. You'll also hear from passionate locals who share insider tips and reveal the stories that make these neighbourhoods truly unique. We'll take you to sophisticated Back Bay as we traverse a historic avenue lined with Victorian brownstones, swish cafes and high-end boutiques.   Sip cocktails in a hidden speakeasy at a luxurious hotel and dive deep into the stories that have shaped this iconic neighbourhood. We'll also venture into Roxbury, the vibrant epicentre of Boston's Black culture. Here, you'll explore the powerful connections between the neighbourhood's storied past and its dynamic present.  Walk alongside local guides who reveal the layers of history embedded in the murals, street art, and community projects that define Roxbury today. From soulful eateries to historic landmarks, Roxbury is a testament to Boston's rich cultural diversity. Lose yourself in the buzzing energy of Chinatown, navigate local markets, savour authentic Asian cuisine, and discover the hidden gardens that offer a peaceful retreat amid the city.  Guided by a charismatic local, you'll uncover the stories behind every dish and every mural, making this a cultural experience you won't forget.  Whether you're a seasoned Bostonian or a first-time visitor, this episode will make you see Boston in a whole new light. From secret speakeasies to vibrant street art, this is the Boston you don't want to miss. Tune in now and start your journey beyond the Freedom Trail.  You can also listen to our upcoming Boston episodes on Travel Goals and on the Boston Found Podcast, a podcast hosted by Meet Boston CEO Martha Sheridan.  Huge thanks to Meet Boston and TTM World for supporting and collaborating with the Travel Goals Podcast. ****************************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Tea Parties and Poets: Exploring Boston's Revolutionary History 09.05.2024 27min

  Are you ready to follow in the footsteps of rebels and explore Boston's 250-year-old revolutionary history? Known for its tea-dumping defiance that helped ignite the American Revolutionary War, Boston still has the fierce spirit of a revolutionary city, a place of ideas, creation and determination.    In this on-location episode, we'll follow the Freedom Trail with a local guide, board a Tea Party Ship and speak with Bostonians about the evolution of New England's historical and cultural capital.  Join producer Luke and me as we discover tea parties, poets, and trails on an epic guide around Boston. In this immersive episode, you'll learn about the incredible historical sites you can visit to learn more about Boston's fascinating 250-year-old revolutionary history.  You can listen to our upcoming Boston episodes on Travel Goals and on the Boston Found Podcast, a podcast hosted by Meet Boston CEO Martha Sheridan.  Huge thanks to Meet Boston and TTM World for supporting and collaborating with the Travel Goals Podcast. ****************************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones], a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet guidebook author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd. Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Welcome to Boston - Teaser Trailer 30.04.2024 4min

  Are you ready to take a deep dive into Boston Massachusetts with our immersive and exciting destination series? This teaser episode gives you a sneak peek into our upcoming Boston mini-series, all recorded on location. Known for its tea-dumping defiance that helped ignite the American Revolutionary War, Boston still has the fierce spirit of a revolutionary city, a place of ideas, creation and determination.  Here, you'll find a mix of world-renowned museums, storied sports stadiums, leafy parks, historic trails and thriving nightlife. Over the next few episodes, Producer Luke and I will discover what makes Boston so special and why you must add it to your travel bucket list. We'll explore Boston's hip neighbourhoods, traverse Revolutionary history trails, learn about the foodie scene, cheer on the Bruins, and head out to the sea to try and spot whales. You can listen to our upcoming Boston episodes on Travel Goals and on the Boston Found Podcast, a podcast hosted by Meet Boston CEO Martha Sheridan.  Huge thanks to Meet Boston and TTM World for supporting and collaborating with the Travel Goals Podcast ****************************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones], a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet guidebook author.  If you love to travel, you can check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and tips and new episodes of the podcast delivered straight to your inbox Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd. Email us to discuss working together, or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  How to create a life of travel without sacrificing stability and comfort: A deep dive with Helene Sula 25.03.2024 37min

  Do you want to travel without sacrificing your financial stability and career? We've got you covered! Join us for a deep dive with travel blogger and author Helene Sula. We discuss how she took calculated risks to follow her dreams of travelling and living abroad without sacrificing stability and comfort and how you can too.  Wanting to get out of her comfort zone, Helene quit the corporate world, packed up two suitcases and two dogs, and moved with her husband, Michael, from Dallas, Texas, to Oxford, England.  They've also lived abroad in Heidelberg, Germany. The purpose was to travel Europe, write about her travels, and encourage others to live out their dreams.  She now has over 560,000 dedicated Instagram followers, 280,000 on TikTok subscribers, and 170,000 newsletter subscribers, and her blog Helene Inbetween, receives 250,000 views every month.  In this episode, Helene discusses her candid travel memoir Two O'Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain and shares the realities—both the magical and the mundane—that come with chasing bold dreams and learning that home is where you make it. For those who fear change, the secret lies in taking calculated risks so that you can follow your dreams without compromise.  Join us for a lively discussion on how to break out of your comfort zone and start travelling now.  Order Helene's new book Two O'Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain HERE ****************************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones], a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet guidebook author.  If you love to travel, you can check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and tips and new episodes of the podcast delivered straight to your inbox Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Are you a destination or travel brand that wants to sponsor the Travel Goals Podcast? Email me to discuss sponsorship and advertising opportunities on Travel Goals.  Enjoy the podcast and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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  Your epic guide to exploring Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way: Unmissable road trip stops 09.03.2024 53min

  Dreaming of exploring the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland? We've got you covered with our epic guide to road-tripping the world's longest, uninterrupted coastal route. Join me and producer Luke for the journey of a lifetime as we explore charming towns, wildlife-rich national parks, food markets and welcoming pubs filled with traditional Irish music. You'll hear incredible soundscapes and interviews with locals as we venture into sections of the Wild Atlantic Way to find out what makes this 2,500 km-long coastal road so special. Join us as we uncover the hidden treasures and untamed beauty of West Ireland. From the windswept cliffs of Moher and the rugged coastlines of Dingle to the buzzing city of Cork, our road trip along this iconic coastal route will surely inspire your wanderlust.  With thanks to Tourism Ireland and Irish Ferries for supporting this episode of the Travel Goals Podcast. *************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones], a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and guidebook author.  If you love travel, you can check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and tips and new episodes of the podcast delivered straight to your inbox Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Are you a destination or travel brand that wants to sponsor the Travel Goals Podcast? Email me to discuss sponsorship and advertising opportunities on Travel Goals.  Enjoy the podcast!