Ronan visited 35 countries to research his book, uncovering jaw-dropping and intriguing insights into the world's most popular landmarks - things even locals don't know.

He talks to us about some of the most remarkable stories, and gives an insight into his travels while he was photographing and researching the book.

Co-hosts Kirstie and Belle also discuss the latest hotel openings around the world that you need on your radar, and Cover More gives a tip on the top costly travel mistakes to avoid when you travel, if you want your insurer to pay out, from adventure activities to getting a tattoo.

Read more about Ronan here: https://www.ronanoconnell.com/about

Buy his book here: https://harpercollins.com.au/products/9781400251469

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An accomplished radio presenter who was instrumental in the creation of radio stations JJ and JJJ, he also presented Qantas' inflight music entertainment for decades. 

Glenn was also our guest on the podcast. For our interview, Belle asked him to create a musical roadtrip through the USA, a task that he immediately said required at least two episodes to cover. 

For us, the iconic music journalist designed a custom soundtrack and playlist/mixtape alongside a guided itinerary of southern blues, soul, and R&B landmarks, which we're resharing here. 

His interview demonstrated an intersection of Glenn's deep knowledge and love for music and travel; the Australian music industry has lost one of its greatest advocates. 

The World Awaits sends our condolences to his family and close friends, including many in our extended travel writing community.

Glenn's playlist from this episode includes:

When a Man Loves a Woman, Percy Sledge
Wild Horses, Rolling Stones
Proud Mary, Creedence Clearwater Revival
Sweet Home Alabama, Lynyrd Skynyrd
Knock on Wood, Eddie Floyd
Crossroads, Robert Johnson
(Sittin' on) The Dock of the Bay, Otis Redding
Green Onions Booker T & the MGs
Rainbow Connection, Jim Henderson
Last Man Standing (album), Jerry Lee Lewis

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We're checking the vibe in Buenos Aires - is tango a cliché, is the wine that good and should I go see the Boca Juniors play? Rebecca also shares some epic roadtrip itineraries in this fascinating, got-it-all country. 

Rebecca is offering listeners a 30% discount on her hour-long travel planning consultations on Argentina – visit rebeccaandtheworld.com and use the discount code THEWORLDAWAITS. 

Also, comparison site iSelect reveals the in-flight habit Aussies hate more than noisy children, and if you have a medical emergency while you travel, do you know which countries have reciprocal health agreements with Australia? Stay tuned. 

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We also chat about our favourite travel books: non-fiction for co-host Belinda Jackson, including modern pilgrimages and some genre-defining classics, and co-host Kirstie Bedford's focus on destination crime, given that's what she writes wearing her authorial crime fiction hat ... although she does drop in one of her favourite new release non-fiction books too.

Also, we discuss one of the biggest topics in travel right now – the death of the paper arrival card, and our tip is from travel experts at Iglu Cruise, who has come up with the top tourist attractions in Australia – have you been to them all?

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At 50, filmmaker Dianne Whelan set out to walk and kayak the longest trail in the world, the 24,000km-long Trans Canada Trail. 

Her film, 500 days in the Wild, opened recently in Australia and documents her extraordinary six-year journey. She talks about the project, paddling 8000km of water trails and walking, biking and snowshoeing 16,000km.

Our second interview is with Adventurer, environmental scientist, author, filmmaker, philanthropist, speaker, and Australian of the Year Tim Jarvis AM.

He chats to us about two of the harshest and most extreme Antarctic expeditions he completed – Douglas Mawson and Ernest Shackleton's survival journeys- and he did them in the original clothing, with the same gear used a century ago.

Jarvis also talks about his latest expedition and how travel can inspire conservation and the difference every traveller can make.

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Coming to you from the Novotel Melbourne Airport, Toby shares some sneaky hacks, and we're talking gift cards, credit cards, hotel loyalty programs and the difference between rewards seats and the perils of the points-plus-pay scheme, so buckle up, avgeeks!

Then, the heartfelt story of Silva McLeod, the first Tongan woman to become an airline pilot, who wrote about her incredible journey from 'Island Girl to Airline Pilot' in a memoir of that name.  

As well as telling us about her remarkable story, she also breaks down some myths about flying, from where pilots sleep to whether you should drink the water on the plane.

Buy her book here: exislepublishing.com/product/island-girl-to-airline-pilot/ 

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First up, Belle takes us on a self-drive safari through Kruger National Park and a stay in peak luxury game reserve Sabi Sabi with expert travel planner Travel Africa Your Way and she also e-bikes to the Cape of Good Hope, South of Cape Town, thanks to new tour company Cape Point Bike Tours. 

Our second interview is with Kirstie, who outlines a three-day adventure hiking and biking adventure on the Queen Charlotte Track and kayaking the glassy waters of the Marlborough Sounds. She explains how to get there and why this is one of the best places to hike in New Zealand. She's also got some great accommodation options pre- and post your adventure, wildernessguidesnz.com

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But first, we have a winner for our competition!  Truc Pham has won a night’s stay at the Moxy Sydney Airport hotel, buffet breakfast for two at the Moxy Kitchen, return airport shuttle transfers and up to 14 nights valet parking at the hotel! See marriott.com

Onto our winter series, Kirstie is chatting with UTracks hiking guide Jaclyn Beagley, who leads guests along the Le Puy Camino, also known as the French Camino. Jaclyn talks about the difference in the French section of the Camino compared with other hikes in the network of ancient pilgrimage routes across Europe, utracks.com

And for our second interview, Belle catches up with author Caro Ryan OAM, whose book, How to Navigate, teaches people the art of navigation and map reading, which she says is essential for safe bushwalking and getting people outdoors, connected to and caring for nature, lotsafreshair.com

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We’re chatting movie destinations, because  set-jetting is one of the hottest trends in travel at the moment, where you decide where to travel based on something you saw in a movie. But also, we want you to take this as a list of movies you should watch on your way to your next destination. 

Think New Zealand and Hobbiton, Game of Thrones for Northern Ireland and what’s now called the White Lotus effect - the fourth season is currently being filmed on the French Riviera, and expected to drop mid-to-late 2027 so buckle up for an overload of Saint Tropez.

Emily in Paris (and Rome), Eat Pray Love, North of North, The English Patient.... Alaisdair shares the best new films while Belle digs up the classics, and we throw a a few wild cards. 

Also, we share a roll-call of great film festivals coming up in Australia, diaries out!

Fire Pit Festival, Sydney christmasinjuly.com.au

South African Film Festival, Sydney 2026, 21 June–26 July saff.org.au

Melbourne International Film Festival (August 6–23) miff.com.au 

Adelaide Film Festival (October 14–25) adelaidefilmfestival.org 

Nordic Film Festival, national (July- August) nordicfilmfestival.com.au  

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Please indulges us as all three of us - Kirstie, Belle and our sound producer Alaisdair share their favourite interviews, from the woman walking the length of the earth to eating on the Amalfi Coast, and best travel fashion hits and misses. 

And to our interview this week, we merge two of the hottest trends in travel right now - small-ship cruising and Japan, as co-host Belle shares life on board the Japanese cruise group Mitsui Ocean Liners, in a bid to explore the country more deeply.

Sailing the Seto Inland sea, there are origami crafternoons, sushi degustations, explorations of 16th-century castles and the joys of an oily massage when the seas are rough. To learn more about Mitsui's cruises, visit their Australian representative cruisetraveller.com.au

And make sure you enter our current giveaway, a night’s stay for two at the chic Moxy Sydney Airport hotel, breakfast and an incredible 14 days' valet parking! Enter via our Instagram or Facebook page @theworldawaitspodcast  

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The freelance journalist, copywriter, and small-group tour operator started interactive travel site Drop me Anywhere in 2014, letting readers choose where she travels - and it can be anywhere in the world.

This week, she talks to us about how she came up with the idea, and how it led her to starting up solo trips to empower women in their travels. 

We also reveal the world’s favourite destinations for billionaires according to Maui Elite Property; and our tip this week is about the best winter light festivals around the country.

And make sure you enter our current giveaway, a night’s stay for two at the chic Moxy Sydney Airport hotel, breakfast and an incredible 14 days' valet parking! Enter via our Instagram or Facebook page @theworldawaitspodcast 

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Her film, 500 days in the Wild, opened recently in Australia and documents her extraordinary six-year journey. She tells Belle about the project, paddling 8000km of water trails and walking, biking and snowshoeing 16,000km across land on a journey that has defined an entire decade of her life. 

She tells of not seeing anyone for months at a time, of escaping bears (all while carrying a cup of coffee) and paddling for months across the world's largest freshwater lake, Lake Superior. In her six-year odyssey, she also found peace, awareness, acceptance and even love.  

Make sure you enter our current giveaway, a night’s stay for two at the chic Moxy Sydney Airport hotel, breakfast and an incredible 14 days' valet parking! Enter via our instagram or facebook page - @theworldawaitspodcast 

Also, our best and worst airline experiences - tune in for Belle's horror story on Ural Airlines, and Kirstie names an Australian carrier for her worst experience.  

And finally, Australian Traveller recently named its 100 best Aussie towns, and the #1 is a Tasmanian beauty. Listen to see if your town was named. 

Watch the trailer for Dianne's film: garage.com.au/500-days-in-the-wild/

Read about Belle's $900 flight from Perth to Melbourne: thecourier.com.au/story/9241171/would-you-pay-900-for-a-perth-to-melbourne-economy-flight-form-hell/ 

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Silva always dreamed of becoming a pilot, but never imagined it'd come true until she met Ken, who she eventually married, but it wasn't until a near-death experience that she pursued her lifelong passion.

As well as telling us about her remarkable story, she also breaks down some myths about flying, from where pilots sleep to should you really drink the water on the plane.

Buy her book here exislepublishing.com/product/island-girl-to-airline-pilot/ 

And we have a new hotel giveaway! Win a night’s stay for two at the chic Moxy Sydney Airport hotel, breakfast and an incredible 14 days' valet parking! Enter via our instagram or facebook page - @theworldawaitspodcast 

We also chat about the winners of Roy Morgan’s annual customer satisfaction awards. It might come as a surprise who was the domestic airline winner.

Full list here: https://www.roymorgan.com/findings/10212-roy-morgan-customer-satisfaction-annual-awards-2025

And, the Meat & Wine Co has come up with Australia's best wine regions to visit this autumn.

Check out its full list here: https://themeatandwineco.com/blog/australias-best-wine-regions-to-visit-this-autumn/

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Hosts Kirstie and Belle ask the big questions about what to wear when you travel. We're talking dress codes on cruises, debate the merits of zip-off trousers and share a couple of our favourite savvy travel clothing buys.

Should we make more of an effort to dress nicely for flights? Pyjamas in public?  When are too many sequins never enough? 

Strong opinions, we've got 'em, from activewear on planes and the fashion choices of Aussie men.

Fabulous and faux pax, we share them all. 

Also, tips on safe travels with your beloved power bank. 

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We also chat about the most Instagrammable hotels in Australia with Sovereign Interior's designer Cayley Scrooby, and Sherry Peters, who has been a flight attendant for 27 years and flies up to 12 times a month, gives us her top tips for the best sleep solutions when you're travelling long-haul.

Dale Noppers barefoot hiking tours can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565575561949

The story Kirstie mentioned is here: https://karryon.com.au/luxury/aktg-australian-advisors-exclusive-event/

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We're talking the all-inclusive and exceptionally knowledgeable experiences provided by leading luxury safari company Sabi Sabi Game Reserve; sabisabi.com 

And also, what it's like to self-drive through Kruger National Park, with expert travel planner Travel Africa Your Way and about spotting ostriches and kudu while e-biking to the Cape of Good Hope, South of Cape Town, thanks to new tour company Cape Point Bike Tours, led by its enthusiastic owner Neil Kohler;  capepointebiketours.com; travelafricayourway.com.au

We're also announcing the winner of our giveaway of a night & buffet breakfast at the Novotel Melbourne Airport! Thanks to everyone who entered, it was a hard-fought comp!  See https://all.accor.com/hotel/B327/index.en.shtml 

Also, why Gen Z's lost interest in taking an overseas working holiday, according to new research from Southern Cross Travel Insurance. And finally, Crusader Caravans shares tips on how road trippers can manage increasing fuel prices.  

Download SAILY in your app store and use our code 'theworldawaits' at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase; see saily.com

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His latest book, Another Japan (Gestalten, Sep 2026), with photographer Irwin Wong, looks at community, rejuvenation, and cultural preservation in non-urban Japan.

Here, he talks to us about some of the best lesser-known places to go, and he has some top tips for first-time visitors.

You'll find him at:

 https://www.tokyofreelance.com/bio/ https://www.instagram.com/robgosswriter/

The story Kirstie mentioned about Australians still prioritising travel is here

And the village of dolls in Japan which Rob and Kirstie talk about is here.

We also discuss how fuel surcharges are impacting flights, and give you an update on the cruise industry in light of the Middle East conflict, and we have found some of Australia's prettiest national parks that you may have never heard of. 

Download SAILY in your app store and use our code 'theworldawaits' at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase; see saily.com

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From Herat and now living in Italy, Fatima leads virtual tours through Afghanistan, a tribal country with enormous diversity. She talks not only about the tours, but the impact tourism has upon her country, from the natural beauty of Bamiyan, chaotic, crowded Kabul and the poetic heart of Herat.  

"Isolation is the worst way to punish a population," says Fatima, who shares the profit from the tours with a women's education charity operating in Afghanistan. "Because the media is so heavily censored, tourism is one way to help open up the country. It helps local businesses and helps us to get out of isolation just a little bit."

Our tip this week is born from personal experience, as we share tips on keeping your eyes healthy while you travel, safe from polluted water and cabin pressure, thanks to The Eye Practice, based in Sydney CBD. 

 And do you use cash or card when you're on the road? The inaugural Travelex Travel Money Insights Report; see travelex.com.au

Download SAILY in your app store and use our code 'theworldawaits' at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase; see saily.com

Fatima's virtual tour https://untamedborders.com/itinerary/virtual-tours-with-fatima-afghanistan/ 

Untamed Borders https://untamedborders.com/ 

The Bradt guidebook to Afghanistan https://www.bradtguides.com/product/afghanistan-pb/ 

Champions of the Golden Valley  https://www.championsofthegoldenvalley.com/ 

Secret Marathon Film https://thesecretmarathon.com/ 

For more eyecare tips https://www.theeyepractice.com.au/optometrist-sydney/why-flying-dries-out-your-eyes-and-how-to-prevent-it/ 

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This week on our Hot Take, hosts Belinda Jackson and Kirstie Bedford bring you the good and the bad news to help you navigate this uncertain time when it comes to travel plans – with some positive solutions.

Our tip is for all the the aviation geeks out there. We’re sharing the best runway rooms at Australasian airports; so if the sight of a plane taking off gets your blood pumping, this is the list for you. 

And if you can't get enough #avgeek, listen in for Belle's tarmac tour of Melbourne Airport; the airport does occasionally offer similar tours, see melbourneairport.com.au/community/airport-tours

Download SAILY in your app store and use our code 'theworldawaits' at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase; see saily.com

Here are links to the stories Kirstie mentions.:

Accor's Middle East CEO

Virtuoso Australia New Zealand forum stats

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Coming to you from the Novotel Melbourne Airport, Toby shares some sneaky hacks, and we're talking gift cards, credit cards, hotel loyalty programs and the difference between rewards seats and the perils of the points-plus-pay scheme, so buckle up, avgeeks!

We also have a giveaway for a night's stay and buffet breakfast at the Novotel Melbourne Airport - jump on our instagram competition post to enter!  

Also, which of the world's most visited cities gives you best bang for your buck on hotel stays, and how to prepare for the new border rules for entry to the EU - saily.com shares some tips on getting prepped. 

And stay tuned for Kirstie's super exciting news, as well as the announcement of the winner of two Andrea Barton crime novels. 

freepoints.com.au 

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Come with host Kirstie Bedford as she hikes and bikes the Queen Charlotte Track, and kayaks in the glassy waters of the Marlborough Sounds, where seals and dolphins are your only neighbours, then beds down in lodges only accessible via the track, boat or helicopter.

She explains how to get there, why this is one of the best places to hike in New Zealand, and where to stay pre- and post your hike. 

Also, an Australian city has for the first time made the top 50 best cities list by Time Out. Find out where it is, and we give our personal recommendations of some of the best things to do while you're there!

And, love to travel but don't want to leave your furry friend behind? We have the rundown of the best places around the country for those wanting to travel with their pooch.

Check out some of the stunning images and footage of Kirstie's trip here. 

Find out more here: https://www.wildernessguidesnz.com/sea-kayaking/3-day-bike-hike-kayak-combo/ and here: https://marlboroughnz.com/

The full list of Time Out’s 50 Best Cities 2026 can be found here.

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A self-described 'pillion princess', Lee and husband Bill shipped their Suzuki V-Strom tourer to the UK to ride 10,000km through the mountains over three months. Lee shares the trials of ultra-light packing and the joys of kevlar jeans. 

Her latest book, Ultimate Backroads & Detours: Australia is for lovers of road trips, but haters of traffic, and is out now. Visit leeatkinson.com.au
  ​
Also, some personal anecdotes about getting out of the Middle East as war takes hold of the region, and the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) says not to panic-cancel your upcoming European trip.

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They launched the podcast to explore the history of hotels and their interplay with culture, society and politics.

We talk about some of the most interesting hotels they have covered, from the haunted to the downright bizarre. 

Find the Hotel History podcast here: www.hotelhistorypodcast.com

Also, Money.com research has revealed Aussies are saving big by using frequent flyer points – we look into what the research shows and how you can save using frequent flyer points.

And, we chat about Southern Cross Travel Insurance's latest data on travel insurance claims, how much we are claiming, and why monkeys keep popping up as an ongoing problem. 

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Audio editing by Alaisdair Leith. You can follow him here

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Think climbing the Pyramids, or smoking on planes; just how golden was the Golden Age of Travel? What about animal interactions such as elephant rides, or scrambling up the metal poles that led to the top of Uluru. Some travel experiences are lost because they were simply bad, others because we’ve thought twice about them and realised that we may just be treading all over someone else’s beliefs and culture. 

Also, let’s talk about Virtual Packing – how you pack your electronic documents so they’re safe when you're on the road. And don’t forget to enter our competition to win a crime novel by Andrea Barton – enter on our instagram or facebook page; just like, follow and tag. 

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Now award-winning author of the Jade Riley Mysteries, owner of a book editing company called Brightside Story Studio, and Vice President of the Mansfield Readers & Writers festival, Andrea bases all her books on the places she has lived around the world. 

From Nigeria, the US and Qatar to Melbourne, we chat about why these destinations are so pivotal to the stories she tells, and she has some writing advice for those who want to follow in her footsteps. Follow Andrea at https://andreabartonauthor.com/.

Enter our giveaway to win one of two of Andrea's books by clicking here.

Also, Skyscanner has launched what it calls the 'Cheapest Destination Planner' to help you plan a trip on the cheap. We chat about how to use it and what it offers, and our tip this week is about what to do to avoid diseases when you travel, with some top advice from Smartraveller.

Australia's newest luxury travel magazine, which Kirstie will edit, is here: https://karryon.com.au/luxury/karryon-launches-luxury-travel-magazine/

Skyscanner's Cheapest Destination Planner is here: https://www.skyscanner.com.au/travel-trends/cheap

The Smartraveller link we mentioned is here: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/news-and-updates/managing-risk-infectious-disease-when-you-travel

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Before he founded the Peninsula Hot Springs on the Mornington Peninsula, 21 years ago, Charles Davidson began exploring thermal springs sites around the world.

His quest has now taken him to 57 countries to explore their bathing cultures, from Iran to Japan, Tanzania to Yemen.

"I really wanted to understand that hot springs had nothing to do with money or wealth, it was all to do with nature and human connection," says Charles of his experiences in Yemen, one of the world's poorest countries. "The gift from mother Earth is universal." 

Listen as Charles shares some truly unique and beautiful experiences in hot water. See peninsulahotsprings.com

Also, we talk about the changes to entry to the UK and Ireland for dual citizens, and the UK's new Electronic Travel Authorisation. 

And finally, let us save your skin! With airplane cabins drier than the Sahara desert, it's no surprise to learn flying ages your skin. We're here to help, along with some expert advice from health and wellness expert Dr Vincent. 

Register here for Karryon's TravMedia webinar, which Kirstie refers to: travmedia.com/meetsaus/karryon

The bathing locations Charles mentions in this episode include:

NT Bitter Springs, Mataranka nt.gov.au/parks/find-a-park/elsey-national-park/bitter-springs 

SA Dalhousie Springs southaustralia.com/products/flinders-ranges-and-outback/attraction/dalhousie-springs-witjira-national-park 

NZ Maruia Hot Springs maruiahotsprings.nz/  

JAPAN Kusatsu onsen visit-gunma.jp/en/discover/destinations/kusatsu/ 

INDIA Kheerganga hot springs, Himchal Pradesh

IRAN Gavmish Goli hot springs, Sareyn

YEMEN Damt thermal springs

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Audio editing by Alaisdair Leith, you can follow him here

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Jaclyn talks about why you should consider the French section of the Camino, and what it offers that differs from other hikes in the network of ancient pilgrimage routes across Europe.

We also chat about the historic house she bought in Umbria, and she has some top tips for those considering buying a European holiday home.

Also, we cover the latest report from Omio about Europe’s fastest-growing, lesser-known hotspots, and our tip this week is about discovering what’s new on the Sunshine Coast, including its first new-build all-service hotel in more than three decades.

Omio travel report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QTceRcvMLOWwRSxKkX5dRo8UgUY0-LMs/view

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Our guest this week is Caro Ryan, who has just been awarded an Order of Australia Medal for 14 years of service in bushwalking safety and community support in the Australia Day Honours 2026. 

Caro leads a 60-person strong specialist Bush Search and Rescue team for the NSW SES in the Blue Mountains, where she lives. And her book, How to Navigate teaches people just that - the art of navigation and map reading, which she says is essential for safe bushwalking and getting people outdoors, connected to and caring for nature. 

Caro runs navigation courses including the upcoming Introduction to Navigation with Caro Ryan: Flinders Island Edition with Tasmanian Expeditions. And we ask for her best one-day and multi-day walks in Australia and overseas. See lotsafreshair.com 

Also, we announce the winners of our giveaway of two of the best travel hat ever (tried and tested by the podcast team!) Tune in to listen to see if you won a Bahama Flexibraid Fedora by Australian designer Tina M Copenhagen!

And finally, Airbnb reveals five travel trends that it says will dominate 2026 and our tip this week is about discovering what's new in Victoria this coming year. Whew! 

Read Belle's forecasts in the Australian Financial Review: https://www.afr.com/life-and-luxury/travel/the-best-restaurants-hotels-and-happenings-coming-to-victoria-in-2026-20260106-p5ns67 

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You'll think not after hearing about his adventures including undertaking two of the harshest and most extreme Antarctic expeditions – Douglas Mawson and Ernest Shackleton's survival journeys, and he did them in the original clothing, with the same gear used a century ago.

Jarvis talks about his journeys, his latest expedition, and he talks about how travel can inspire conservation and the difference every traveller can make.

We also take you to the tennis with the Australian Open now in full swing in Melbourne, talk about Australia's travel spending with new ING research, and it might be a touchy subject, but the Movicol Constipation State of the Nation report is out (yes, there is such a thing!) and we chat about how to keep things moving when you travel.

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Co-host Kirstie Bedford loves nothing more than an active getaway, and so a chance to hike, bike and kayak in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve was her idea of a dream weekend – throw in whale watching, and it was a match made in heaven.

Take a listen to her recommendations of how to explore a different side of Noosa, with top tips about where to stay, play and eat. Go to https://www.visitnoosa.com.au/ for more and see footage from her recent trip at: @kirstiewrites.

Then, Belle takes us to Tasmania's Central Highlands, where wine, wombats and walking are all on the menu at the beautiful Pumphouse Point. 

Set in the glacial Lake St Claire, the lake lodge has recently opened its new Retreats, which look out towards the pumphouse. It's also a hub for walkers, wine and wombats; https://www.pumphousepoint.com.au/. 

Follow her adventures at https://globalsalsa.com.

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First up, Kirstie takes us to the stunning island resort of Song Saa in Cambodia’s Koh Rong archipelago. Bought by Australian Melita Koulmandas for US$15,000, she has transformed it from knee-deep in rubbish to a luxury retreat with Cambodia’s first protected marine park. Hear from the island’s marine biologist, Anna Sabrina Petry about how it not only supports the ongoing conservation efforts but continues to enrich the area. Learn more about Song Saa at www.songsaa-privateisland.com.

Next, Belle chats about her most recent visit to the Maldives - does it live up to the hype? This time, she stayed at two resorts, Niyama Private Islands in the Dhaalu atoll south of the capital, Male, and Avani + Fares in the Baa atoll, famed for its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. We're talking about the food, the different types of resorts, their sustainability and, of course, whale sharks. 

See niyama.com and avanihotels.com/en/fares-maldives 

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This week, we’re giving you an insight into what life is really like living on the road, starting with authors, digital creators and husbands Brent Hartinger and Michael Jensen, who have lived in more than 30 countries and travelled to more than 60. 

The long-time digital nomads originally from the United States share their insights into what it’s like living a nomadic life, with top tips on how you can do it too. Follow them at: https://www.brentandmichaelaregoingplaces.com/

Then we chat to award-winning freelance food, travel and lifestyle journalist Natascha Mirosch, who swapped the sunny shores of Brisbane to move temporarily to a tiny village south of Rome where she worked remotely. We talk through why she did it, what there is to see and do in this stunning region of Italy and how you could do it too.

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This week, we're talking tropics, taking you to Tahiti and Papua New Guinea. 

Co-host Kirstie Bedford talks about attending Tahiti's first annual yoga festival – a chance to find her Zen and connect with culture in this tropical paradise. Listen to festival founder Rani Chaves talk about what makes Tahiti such a unique destination for a yoga festival, and how yoga can be so healing, and you'll hear from leading international yoga teacher and instructor Elka Haeckel about how what you do on the mat can transform your entire mindset.

In our second interview, 4km from Australia, PNG is our closest, and also our least explored neighbour. Australian musician and composer David Bridie talks about his connection with PNG, which spans four decades. A founding member of Not Drowning, Waving, David first visited PNG in 1986; he is now an initiated Tolai man, returning more than 40 times, for work and to visit friends who've become family in Rabaul, Bougainville and Manus Island, as documented in the film Abebe; see davidbridie.com 

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This week, we’re taking you to Africa, a bucket list destination for those who want to see the Big Five or wander the pyramids of Giza.

First up, co-host Belle Jackson, a frequent visitor and former resident of Egypt in northeast Africa, takes you to the many museums, explains the best way to see the pyramids, and shares the top three things to do in Cairo.

Then we chat to Ivona Siniarska, founder of Take Off Go and Africa expert, who has visited 40 times about the best places to go on safari, where to start for first-timers, and how to ensure you’re travelling in a way that’s right by the wildlife. 

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Also, get planning for your 2026 travels and get holiday maxxing - the art of maximising public holidays to get more time away, without the pay cut. 

Our Christmas wishlist includes three great Australian designed products from Belle and Alaisdair's Techxmas trio, with a bonus cheapie perfect for summer holidays.

Zoomlite Glide top-opening suitcase Ditch the space-hogging clamshell suitcase with this Australian-designed case, a smooth-wheeling, hard shell that opens with a lid (and the traditional clam). In  in seven colours and three sizes including the Glide Lite, Australia's lightest carry-on wheeled case, at 2kg, zoomlite.com.au 

Bahama Flexibraid Fedora travel hat: Crushable, water resistant, UPF50+, packs flat and stylish, this fedora hides bad hair days and protects your skin on your travels, tinamcopenhagen.com.au 

Lake Eyre 100% Silk Scarf Take a piece of Australia on your travels with this large format silk scarf featuring the aerial photography of Australian grazier David Taylor, australiascape.com.au 

Timekettle Translation Earbuds Lost in translation? Translate 42 languages with these earbud, one for each speaker, and the earbud will translate both ways! timekettle.co 

Baseus Universal Travel Adaptor Charge your phone, watch and laptop all with the one charger, all around the world; includes USB C and USB A ports. In black or white, baseus.com

Vacbird Travel Bags For the overpacker in your life, these vacuum compression bags come with the tiniest, USB-powered vacuum. Great for stuffing your daybag full, without the bulk vacbird.com 

and a bonus cheapie that's the best little buy...

Torras waterproof phone pouch Before you jump into that lazy river or dive deep in the Maldives, the Torras holds your earbuds, your keys and it floats! Also, touchproof through the watercasing, torraslife.com

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This week's pod is for you!  We are chatting to editor and travel writer Carrie Hutchinson who just spent the Australian winter working remotely in Sicily. She explains what the experience was like and provides some of her top tips so you can follow in her footsteps.

We also have the lowdown from ex-flight attendant and beauty expert Danielle Louise from Fresha app on the healthiest places to sit on a plane.

And, love a bit of luxury but not the top-end price? We run through some affordable five-star stays that'll have you living the high life without breaking the bank.

Mr & Mrs Smith budget boutique hotels can be found here: https://www.mrandmrssmith.com/collections/budget-boutique-hotels

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We're talking about the food, the different types of resorts, their sustainability and, of course, whale sharks. 

Belle stayed at Niyama Private Islands Maldives for the surfing; niyama.com & Avani+ Fares Maldives for the whale sharks; avanihotels.com/en/fares-maldives 

Also, travel comparison and booking platform Omio shares some tips for Travel Tuesday, such as knowing your prices beforehand, get your logins and sign up to newsletters! See omio.com 

And are Australians prepared to go broke for a break? Stay tuned... https://www.finder.com.au/news/action-to-afford-holiday-2025

Kirstie's story on https://karryon.com.au/luxury/overtourism-in-africa-help-or-hinder/ 

Finally, let's start a tea party! Tell us - do you pack tea bags when you travel? Belle's story in the Sydney Morning Herald: https://www.theage.com.au/traveller/inspiration/i-didn-t-want-coffee-so-my-1000-a-night-resort-gave-me-cheap-tea-bags-20251107-p5n8h9.html 

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Belle takes us to Tasmania's Central Highlands, where wine, wombats and walking are all on the menu at the beautiful Pumphouse Point. Set in the glacial Lake St Claire, the lake lodge has recently opened its new Retreats, which look to the pumphouse. It's also a hub for walkers, wine and wombats; https://www.pumphousepoint.com.au/

Also, leading wine reviewer the Halliday Wine  Companion reveals Australia's top cellar door to put on your travel list https://winecompanion.com.au/ and we're sharing some great tips to save when travelling around Switzerland on its Swiss Rail Pass, https://www.swissrailways.com/en 

And a spot of trivia; what do you think is the most expensive thing left in Brisbane Airport's Lost & Found? Lloyds Auctions recently put all the items under the hammer, including one pretty surprising, pretty pricey item that would be hard to forget...

A shout out to Trapper & Smiggins gin from Lake St Clair https://www.trapperandmiggins.com/ 

And if you'd like to read Belle's three stories that won her the title of TWOTY:

Why AlUla is the hottest place to be now, Saudi Arabia https://www.smh.com.au/traveller/inspiration/why-this-hidden-oasis-is-the-coolest-luxury-destination-right-now-20230905-p5e22i.html
Flamenco & fino with Inntravel, Spain  https://www.smh.com.au/traveller/inspiration/this-southern-spain-train-odyssey-is-ruled-by-two-f-words-20240822-p5k4cs.html
Rose Harvest in Oman https://luxuryescapes.com/inspiration/a-journey-through-oman/?srsltid=AfmBOoo6azH50gGVmPuFV-B0Ktoq1fgru_Vfe_-9WgKjncPHagxQBOL8
and you can see more on her website https://globalsalsa.com

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Co-host Kirstie Bedford takes us to the stunning island resort of Song Saa in Cambodia’s Koh Rong archipelago. 

Bought by Australian Melita Koulmandas for US$15k, it has been transformed from knee-deep in rubbish to a luxury retreat with Cambodia’s first protected marine park. 

Hear from the island’s marine biologist, Anna Sabrina Petry about how it not only supports the ongoing conservation efforts but continues to enrich the area. 

We also talk about the new 'Swedish Prescription', where you can get a doctor to prescribe a visit to the European nation (yes, please!), and would you pay to recline your seat on a plane? We chat about the airline that's expecting you to.

Read Kirstie’s Karryon story about Song Saa: https://karryon.com.au/luxury/song-saa-cambodia-championing-conservation/

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Kicking things off is co-host Kirstie Bedford talking about her recent trip to Tahiti, where she attended Tahiti's first annual yoga festival – a chance to find her Zen and connect with culture in this tropical paradise. 

Listen to festival founder Rani Chaves talk about what makes Tahiti such a unique destination for a yoga festival, and how yoga can be so healing, and you'll hear from leading international yoga teacher and instructor Elka Haeckel about how what you do on the mat can transform your entire mindset.

Kirstie also gives us a rundown of the not-to-be-missed experiences when you're staying in this French Polynesian isle.

We chat about Money.com.au's new research, which reveals who among us is telling fibs about the cost of our holidays, and why we're doing it.

And love the Camino, but can't commit to the full walk? UTracks has a top tip of some shorter walks you can do that will still give you a good dose of local culture.

The link to Kirstie's Air Tahiti Nui review is here: https://karryon.com.au/luxury/air-tahiti-nuis-new-manava-premium-class/ 

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A founding member of Not Drowning, Waving, David first visited PNG in 1986; he is now an initiated Tolai man, returning more than 40 times, for work and to visit friends who've become family in Rabaul, Bougainville and Manus Island, as documented in the film Abebe; see davidbridie.com 

Come for the fishing, diving and birdwatching, stay for the incredible, varied cultures, some only first touched by contact with the outside world in our lifetimes. 

Also, the places you need to be going in 2026, thanks to trendsetters Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel in 2026 and for our tip this week,  how to stop  hackers targeting you on holiday, thanks to Saily SIM cards. See lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel and saily.com 

Finally, Kirstie checks into the Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins, and we're both hoovering up Hong Kong classics at Atlas Dining in South Yarra. See https://ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/ and atlasdining.com.au

David's recommendations include:
Baia Sportfishing baiafishingpng.com
Walindi dive resort, Kimba walindiresort.com
Kumal Lodge (birdwatching) facebook.com/kumullodge989/ 

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From Alice Springs/Alice Springs to Watarrka/Kings Canyon and Uluru, here's your list of where to stay, what to eat and some of the best things to do on a roadtrip in the Northern Territory.

Also, the world's best hotels are recognised in the new Michelin Key hotels guide; Australia's Lizard Island is the only  the three-key hotel, with Longtitude 131 near Uluru, Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island and Drift House in Port Fairy, Victoria. For the full list

And dogs on planes - are you on board? Virgin Australia has launched its new trial, as well as more generous carry-on limits. 

Belle's recommendations on the Red Centre Way: 

Ooraminna Station, 40 mins from Alice Springs, https://www.ooraminna.com.au/
Ormiston Gorge, West Macdonnell Ranges https://nt.gov.au/parks/find-a-park/tjoritja-west-macdonnell-national-park/ormiston-gorge
Kings Creek Station https://kingscreekstation.com.au/
Ayres Rock Resort, https://www.ayersrockresort.com.au/
Standley Chasm, West Macdonnell Ranges, https://standleychasm.com.au/
Northern Territory Tourism https://northernterritory.com/

Other places mentioned:
Melbourne Winery https://www.melbournewinery.com.au/
Virgin Australia https://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/ 

#northernterritory

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This week, host Kirstie Bedford explains why Siem Reap is the ultimate last hurrah when it comes to family holidays.

Finder details how you can get the most out of your frequent flyer points – and the best credit cards to maximise them.

And we give you the lowdown on the new Kyoto tourism tax, which comes into play next year. 

Read Responsible Travel's detailed report about tourism taxes at https://www.responsibletravel.com/copy/tourist-taxes

Kirstie's cover story in the Sunday Star Times is at https://www.thepost.co.nz/travel/360838639/last-hurrah-why-siem-reap-should-be-last-family-holiday-you-do-teens-go and her hotel review for Karryon is here https://karryon.com.au/luxury/fcc-angkor-by-avani-cultural-heart-cambodia/.

And you can find out more about FCC Angkor by Avani, where Kirstie stayed at https://www.avanihotels.com/.

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From Kenya to South Africa, Ivona talks to us about the best places to go, where to start for first-timers, and how to ensure you're travelling in a way that's right by the wildlife, and ensures you are able to make the most of the experience, https://www.takeoffgo.com/

Also, loud talkers, crowding the luggage carousel and throwing your plane seat back… these are just some of the things that give us the ick when we travel, according to Vodafone.

And the Great Aussie Pie Competition results are in - listen in for where to get the best pie in Australia. Road trips just got a whole lot more delicious, https://greataussiepiecomp.com.au/

Read Kirstie's shortlisted adventure story for the Australian Society of Travel Writers' Excellence Awards about Sardinia and Belle's shortlisted culinary story about eating in Oman.

Belle has also been shortlisted for the 2025 Travel Writer of the Year award; her stories include AlUla in Saudi Arabia and Moor, Please! A fabulous self-guided journey on Spain's public trains from Seville to Jerez and Cadiz, with Inntravel.

And if you'd like to hear Belle chatting with 2GB about her cover story about travelling through Tunisia with Intrepid Travel, and the goat that tried to derail it all, listen here, https://omny.fm/shows/2gb-afternoons/travel-tunisia 

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Breana spends several months a year in Kenya with the charity she founded, OperAffinity, working and performing with impoverished children to develop their artistic abilities, and to create cultural connection through music. 

Follow Breana's journey and for more on OperAffinity and its festival in Todi, Italy, https://www.breanasoprano.com/, https://www.operaffinity.com/ 

Also, while Americans are travelling to Australian in record numbers, Aussies are choosing Asia over the US for their international holidays, according to the latest Travel Trends Report from the  Australian Travel Industry Association, https://atia.travel/ 

And finally, Southern Cross Travel Insurance makes the case for taking out travel insurance for domestic travel, https://www.scti.com.au/ 

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This week, we take a look at what life's like for a leading commentator travelling on the celeb circuit, and find out where the A-listers like to go.

Also, Intrepid's "Not Hot List" is out! This annual report highlights the lesser-known destinations and regions for those who care about treading lightly when they travel.

And our tip this week is from eSIM provider Saily about how to get the most out of your data when you travel. 

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In Australia, he's Mr Malta - Maltese-Australian chef, restaurateur and TV presenter Shane Delia has been returning to the Mediterranean island nation since he was 13, so he knows a thing or two about exploring Malta's food, beaches and lifestyle. 

Talking to the podcast just ahead of Maltese Independence Day, Shane, whose restaurants include Maha in Melbourne, Layla in Brisbane and the Biggie Smalls kebab chain, appears on Channel 9's Postcards every week, says Malta is blossomed with high-end restaurants. "But while it’s well documented where we’ve been, young Maltese chefs are asking, 'Where can we be, who can we be?'" he says.  His hot tips include Marsaskala Bay for swimming and Sphinx Malta for delicious pastizzi. Follow Shane at @shanedelia 

Also, be compensated for late or cancelled flights here in Australia: you can have your say on the proposed Aviation Consumer Protection Scheme, see http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/aviation/aviation-consumer-protections

And finally, car rental group VroomVroomVroom says that Australian airports are the most common place for bingles in your hire car. 

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Co-host Kirstie Bedford loves nothing more than an active getaway, and so a chance to hike, bike and kayak in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve was her idea of a dream weekend – throw in whale watching, and it was a match made in heaven.

Take a listen to her recommendations of how to explore a different side of Noosa, with top tips about where to stay, play and eat. Go to https://www.visitnoosa.com.au/ for more and see footage from her recent trip at: @kirstiewrites.

 Also, Skyscanner reveals how Gen Z is travelling today. This teen to 28-year-old age group is a big decision maker when it comes to family travel, and you might just be surprised at what their top priorities are when it comes to a getaway.

And for those who love a bit of stargazing, insuremytrip.com takes us to the best places in the world for astrotourism. The full research is here: https://www.insuremytrip.com/travel-advice/travel-inspiration/best-destinations-for-stargazing/

The places Kirstie mentioned:

https://whalesongsnoosa.com.au/

https://byearthandocean.com.au/noosa-ebike-tours/ and https://byearthandocean.com.au/stingrays-and-everglades-kayak-tour/

Lanai https://lanainoosa.com.au/

Light Years: https://www.lightyearsasiandiner.com.au/

Noosa Surf Club: https://www.noosasurfclub.com.au/

https://www.therisenoosa.com.au/

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Sarah Maree Cameron is a radio and TV presenter, writer and comedian. She presents the House of Wellness on Nine Radio, and in Melbourne, the Weekend Break with Grubby on 3AW and TravelOz on Channel 7. 

With that job description, she's constantly on the road, and we chat about how she manages her hectic schedule while juggling a number of dietary and health issues. Listen for her top tips on staying stress-free and healthy. Follow Sarah Maree on instagram for more wellness tips 

Also, which are the most crowded tourist destinations in the world?  A couple are particular favourites for Australian travellers, according to new analysis from  Deluxe Holiday Homes. 

And Kadi Luggage reveals how to get the best bang for your buck when shopping duty-free at airports. 

Sarah Maree's tips include:

Listening to sleep stories with the Calm app 

Hotteeze heat pads 

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Twenty-two years later, she’s hosted more than 18,000 women seeking a transformational experience in Bali through Goddess Retreats.

She shares her experience, tips for the best ways to have a wellness experience in the popular Indonesian hotspot, and explains why you should give surfing a go – and how to get started!

The latest research on the 'grey gap year' shows as we age we’re now increasingly likely to want to spend the kids’ inheritance on a big holiday. Read the full Grey Gap Year report here.

The Japan National Tourism Organisation gives the low-down on food etiquette in Japan – think you shouldn’t slurp your noodles? Think again!

Also, win a copy of Ultimate Dive Sites by last week's guest, Todd Thimios - see our Instagram to enter, and here's Kirstie's story about the luxury advisors turned digital nomads. https://karryon.com.au/luxury/nomad-the-consultants-living-remote/

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To win a copy of Todd's book, Ultimate Dive Sites (Hardie Grant), follow us on instagram @theworldawaitspodcast and catch him MC'ing at the Go Diving Show at Sydney Showgrounds 6-7 September, see godivingshow.com/anz/sydney-dive-show 

Also, do we really need travel insurance for local travel within Australia? Southern Cross Travel Insurance’s (SCTI), most recent Future of Travel report might just change your mind, scti.com.au 

And where's the best place in the world to work and holiday? IWG's annual Work from Anywhere Barometer names the best cities for a workcation, and there are a few surprises in the top 10. Listen for the full list, see iwgplc.com

Also, click here to listen back to Jacques Smit of Sabi Sabi private game reserve in South Africa, and read Kirstie's story from her interview with Jacques here. 

And to find out more about the next big hot in cycling tourism, take a look at Victoria’s High Country's gravel bike riding campaign victoriashighcountry.com.au/ride/

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Authors, travel writers, digital creators and husbands Brent Hartinger and Michael Jensen have lived in more than 30 countries and travelled to more than 60. The long-time digital nomads have no plans to return to their home in the US, particularly now with Trump at the helm. This week, they share their insights into what it’s like living a nomadic life, with top tips on how you can do it too.

Also, Compare the Market has found almost 30 per cent of Aussies say they have relied on AI tools for travel plans – do you trust it?

And, after the fourth fatal boat accident in Bali this year, how can travellers make safe choices when choosing a boat trip in the Indonesian province? We provide some top tips of how to stay safe on a boating trip in Bali, and you can listen to Belle chatting about it on ABC here.

And here's a link to read Kirstie's story about FCC Angkor by Avani.

Visit us at https://theworldawaits.au or on Instagram here.

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Belle shares her top three things to do in Cairo, including the best Egyptian museums and neighbourhoods, essential experiences and answers the age-old question, is Cairo safe right now? For more of Belle's travels, see https://www.instagram.com/global_salsa 

And we have a winner of our tropical Thai holiday giveaway of four nights at Avani+ Khao Lak! Thanks to Avani Hotels & Resorts, who generously offered this prize to our listeners to celebrate our 100th episode! 

And finally, our tip this week is how to avoid the rainiest places in the world (unless you love a downpour!), and we cover off the craziest things people have left in Ubers.

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Host Kirstie Bedford talks about her recent visit to the remote islands and what makes this largely unknown Australian island a must-visit. You can see some footage of her trip on Instagram at @kirstiewrites

Next up, we chat to author and freelance travel writer Celeste Mitchell about her new book, Ultimate Beaches Australia. She's scoured the nation to come up with 80 of the best beaches from the big names to some secret spots; places for world-class surf breaks or rock pools for the kids.  

Celeste is also owner of Life Unhurried, lifeunhurried.com 

And don't forget to enter our competition to win a tropical holiday in Thailand! To celebrate our 100th episode, we've partnered with Avani Hotels and Resorts to give away four nights' stay for two people in a deluxe room at Avani+ Khao Lak, with daily breakfast and dinner, airport transfers and a Muay Thai boxing class.

Just like the competition post on our Instagram page and tag a friend, and follow both The World Awaits and Avani Hotels, and you're in for the win! 

Entrants can be located anywhere in the world. Entries close 31st July 2025.

*flights not included.

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First up meet Lucy Barnard, the Australian Geographic Society's 2024 Adventurer of the Year. Lucy is almost at the end of an intrepid feat to become the first woman to walk the length of the Earth – 30,000 kilometres from the southernmost tip of South America to the top of North America, and talks to co-host Kirstie Bedford about this incredible journey. Follow her on Instagram at @tanglesandtail 

Our second guest is adventurer, author and inspirational speaker Laura Waters, who joins us to talk about her recent, epic journey kayaking 2,400 kilometres solo along the Murray, Australia’s longest river. Laura is also the author of Bewildered, which documents her life-changing hike of the length of New Zealand. She has also authored Ultimate Walks & Hikes Australia.

You can watch a documentary about her journey here, and follow Laura on Instagram at @laurawaters_writer

And don't forget to enter our competition to win a tropical holiday in Thailand! To celebrate our 100th episode, we've partnered with Avani Hotels and Resorts to give away four nights' stay for two people in a deluxe room at Avani+ Khao Lak, with daily breakfast and dinner, airport transfers and a Muay Thai boxing class.

Just like the competition post on our Instagram page and tag a friend, and follow both The World Awaits and Avani Hotels, and you're in for the win! 

Entrants can be located anywhere in the world. Entries close 31st July 2025.

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This week we're taking you to Greece.

First up, host Kirstie chats to Andria Mitsakos, founder of Anthologist and global founder of AMPR, who takes us to some of the country's best artisans where she buys her artefacts, and shares insider tips on the best way to enjoy a Greek getaway. 

Next, host Belle Jackson takes us to Greece and Bulgaria, travelling by rail on a slow food, slow travel journey of these neighbouring countries. She travelled on a Eurail pass, which crisscrosses 33 European countries.

And we are giving away a tropical holiday in Thailand! We've partnered with our friends at Avani Hotels and Resorts to celebrate our 100th episode with this great prize. 

You can win four nights for two people in a deluxe room at Avani+ Khao Lak, with daily breakfast and dinner, airport transfers and a Muay Thai boxing class! 

Just  go to our competition post on instagram, like it and tag a friend, and follow both The World Awaits and Avani Hotels, and you're in for the win! 

Entrants can be located anywhere in the world. Entries close on 31st July.

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This week is all about Italy. We are taking you from the Amalfi Coast to a tiny town south of Rome. 

First up, host Belinda Jackson’s chats with author Maria Pasquale, who explores the food histories and dishes across regional Italy. Maria, born to Italian parents and raised in Melbourne, is the author of four books and has readers in more than 100 countries.

Then, host Kirstie Bedford talks to award-winning freelance journalist, Natascha Mirosch, who swapped the sunny shores of Brisbane to move temporarily to a tiny village south of Rome. If you ever considered a move to Italy, this is the episode for you. 

And we're giving away a tropical holiday in Thailand! We've partnered with our friends at Avani Hotels and Resorts to celebrate our 100th episode with this great prize. 

You can win four nights for two people in a deluxe room at  Avani+ Khao Lak, with daily breakfast and dinner, airport transfers and a Muay Thai boxing class! 

Just like the competition post on our Instagram page and tag a friend, and follow both The World Awaits and Avani Hotels, and you're in for the win! 

Entrants can be located anywhere in the world. Entries close on 31st July.

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Andrew talks about how having a personal driver (details below) changed his entire experience and lets us in on some of the lesser-known places to go in this often chaotic country.  

1 Hotels opened its first property in Australia recently, and host Kirstie Bedford was there to review it, while host Belle Jackson was among the first to stay in the new villas at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula. We also cover all the other new hotel openings in Australia you need to know about.

And, love a good roadie? We cover off Australia's best road trips with Rollin' car insurance. 

Contact Andrew's driver Manoj via email: agmtourntravels@gmail.com

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Together with her guides Tashi and Namgyel, they scout new routes and cultural experiences in Bhutan, including the little visited East Bhutan, also known for its handicraft villages, rareairtravel.com.au

Also, we track down the most disappointing of the world's famous beaches. The USA has a strong showing at the top, with rubbish, noise and overcrowding destroying the experience at some of its iconic strips of sand, says with research by cloudwards.net

And our tip is all about wellness tourism, which is forecast to be worth $1.35 trillion in 2028. The AvaniWell program focuses on personalised wellness at its resorts, where you can do everything from freediving to football camps, avanihotels.com 

This mini-series is brought to you by Avani Hotels & Resorts. With more than 40 properties across five continents, Avani offers city hotels, tropical resorts and retreats in nature. For more, visit avanihotels.com

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It was this encounter with dolphins in Mozambique while teaching a freediving course that made Hanli Prinsloo turn conservationist, and now she hosts retreats to teach others how to freedive and educate about marine conservation.

For more about her next retreat in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll while staying at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, go to avanihotels.com. For more information about Hanli, go to hanliprinsloo.com

 Also, do you ever wonder when and where you should tip? Travelex has put a guide together to help you know which countries you should tip in and how much you should be handing over. For the full tipping guide, go to https://www.travelex.com.au/media/1338/tipping-guide.pdf

And our tip this week is from Travelinsurance.com.au about how to maximise your frequent flyer points. For more, go to https://www.travelinsurance.com.au/

This mini-series is brought to you by Avani Hotels & Resorts. With more than 40 properties across five continents, Avani offers city hotels, tropical resorts and retreats in nature. For more, visit avanihotels.com

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Speaking to us from his home just north of Kruger National Park in South Africa, Tony shares his vast experience about going on safari in southern and east Africa. From the Kruger to the Kalahari, we're taking self-drive safaris on a budget, which regions are better for different wildlife and wildlife poaching.

"The best way to tackle poaching is to uplift the communities and the people, who feel that their only option is to turn to wildlife crime," he says. "So the best thing for wildlife is to visit Africa." 

Tony has published 22 novels set in southern Africa; his 23rd, Die by the Sword, is out at the end of July, and like all his novels, it has a strong environmental and wildlife conservation angle. See tonypark.net

Also, what's new on the slopes for the Australian ski season? From lifts to going cashless. Visit perisher.com, thredbo.com.au, charlottepass.com.au and perisher.com.au

And find out which of the Avani Tribes you belong to, and then match your destination to your personality type at https://tribes.avanihotels.com.

This mini-series is brought to you by Avani Hotels & Resorts. With more than 40 properties across five continents, Avani offers city hotels, tropical resorts and retreats in nature. For more, visit avanihotels.com

Tony’s picks:

For a great, all-inclusive luxury safari experience in South Africa, check out the Sabi Sabi collection of lodges in South Africa's Sabi Sand Game Reserve: sabisabi.com 

A bit cheaper, but in a great game viewing area inside the Kruger National Park is Imbali Game Reserve (and also check out its neighbouring, affiliate properties, Hamiltons and Hoyo Hoyo), imbali.com 

If you’re game for a self-drive trip (which will save you loads), fly from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo Airport to Skukuza in the Kruger National Park and hire an Avis or Europcar rental car and stay in self-catering accommodation (there are also restaurants in most of Kruger’s rest camps), sanparks.org

For a get-away-from-it-all safari in an untouristy-park, check out Hwange National Park, close to Victoria Falls. These are good places: hideawaysafrica.com, robinscamp.com 

In East Africa, Tony prefers the Serengeti in Tanzania to Kenya’s Masai Mara. Maasai Wanderings, owned by an Aussie woman does excellent mobile safaris, maasaiwanderings.com 

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"What's not to love?" asks co-host Belle Jackson, who travelled through Tunisia recently with Intrepid Travel, intrepidtravel.com

Also, if you enjoy going off the beaten track, travel insurance company Insure & Go lists the 10 global destinations you must visit before they boom, insureandgo.com And the bulk-billed travel vaccination clinic TravAX lets you search your travel destination and the vaccinations it recommends, travax.nhs.uk  

Finally, our tip this week is about how to get a good dose of culture when you travel to Italy, from mask making in Venice to touring Milan in a Fiat 500.  Find out more at avanihotels.com

OUR RECOMMENDATIONS

The full length, 19-minute documentary about Belle's slow-food travels in Greece and Bulgaria with Eurail has now been released; watch it here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hf7ldApatlQ

This mini-series is brought to you by Avani Hotels & Resorts. With more than 40 properties across five continents, Avani offers city hotels, tropical resorts and retreats in nature. For more, visit avanihotels.com

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He takes us on a cruise down the river in Laos on board the beautiful new boat Boheme. With only 13 cabins, it runs between the royal city of Luang Prabang and the capital, Vientiane, connecting you to the lifeblood of the country, all while exploring Laos' cuisine and visiting its villages.

"Watch longtail boats, see temples... on a river cruise, you see the river at all times of the day, while people are fishing or swimming," says Michael of the six-day sailing journeys. 

For more about the Boheme, visit mekongkingdoms.com and add a stay at the Avani+ Luang Prabang, avanihotels.com And to follow Michael, see timetravelturtle.com 

Also, what's the world's most beautiful airstrip? This list of ravishing runways will have you fighting for the window seat. https://www.allcleartravel.co.uk/blog/the-worlds-most-beautiful-airport-landings/ 

And finally, tap into the set-jetting trend and get your travel inspiration from movies and TV series. We're talking Thailand, Malta and the UK - tune in to see what's filmed where.

This mini-series is brought to you by Avani Hotels & Resorts. With more than 40 properties across five continents, Avani offers city hotels, tropical resorts and retreats in nature. For more, visit avanihotels.com

READING RECOMMENDATIONS

If you'd like to read Belle's story on the young woman shaking up PNG's traditional drumming scene, visit airniuginiparadise.com

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That’s something tour guide, feminist, history nerd, and author Sita Sargeant plans on changing. Frustrated by the lack of recognition for women’s historical contributions, she founded She Shapes History – a tourism company offering entertaining and engaging walking tours in Canberra, Sydney, and Melbourne to make sure the remarkable achievements of women are not lost.

She chats to us about how she got started with her tours, and what her plans are to ensure the message is spread far and wide.

We also talk about the sober curious movement and how Avani Hotels is ensuring no one is left sipping a boring drink!

And Health Direct has some top tips for avoiding motion sickness. 

This mini-series is brought to you by Avani Hotels & Resorts. With more than 40 properties across five continents, Avani offers city hotels, tropical resorts and retreats in nature. For more, visit avanihotels.com

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Award-winning freelance food, travel and lifestyle journalist Natascha Mirosch has swapped the sunny shores of Brisbane to move temporarily to a tiny village south of Rome. We chat about why she did it, what there is to see and do in the region where she’s now living and how you could do it too.

We also have a last-minute Mother’s Day guide for the travel-loving mum in your family (or yourself) and do people really care about giving back when they travel?  We give you the feedback from some of the experts including Booking.com's 2025 Sustainable Travel report. 

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With a super-strong US dollar and reports of 'enhanced vetting' at US borders, economics groups forecast a 12% drop in visitors to the States this year. So just how welcome are travellers these days? New York State is bucking the trend, says Michael Cassis, the Australian representative for the state, and shares some tips for smooth entry into the US.  

And - jazz hands to the ready - 2025 marks the 100th anniversary of the publication of iconic American novel The Great Gatsby. Author F Scott Fitzgerald set the novel amongst the mansions of Long Island, so Michael takes us back to  1925 and where to visit to find the romance and glamour of the Jazz Age, iloveny.com

Also, monkey bites, bag snatches and Bali belly -  Southern Cross Travel Insurance spills the tea on the most unusual claims submitted by Australians holidaying in Bali and the biggest, most eye-watering claims, scti.com.au

Finally, if you've ever had an opulent train trip in mind, this North American beauty is the last word in luxury, according to research from Japan Rail Pass, jrpass.com 

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Celeste Mitchell, author of Ultimate Beaches Australia has scoured the nation to come up with 80 of the best beaches from the big names to some secret spots; places for world-class surf breaks or rock pools for the kids.  https://publishing.hardiegrant.com/en-au/books/ultimate-beaches-australia-by-celeste-mitchell/9781741178920

Celeste is also the owner of the slow travel booking site, Life Unhurried and she reveals some of her top picks for beachside slow stays.

Also, Skytrax’s annual survey of the top airports around the world is out. Can you guess which airport takes the top gong? 

And DiscoverCars.com reveals the best countries for a road trip. Take a listen to find out where they are!

And co-host Belle Jackson visits the Bendigo Art Gallery for the Frida Kahlo: In her own image exhibition – a look at one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. 

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Welcome to the Cocos Keeling Islands – an atoll almost halfway between Australia and Sri Lanka where the airport runway doubles as the golf course, so infrequent are the flights.

We explain why this special little spot should be on your travel bucket list – and if you’re travelling from Australia, you don’t even need a passport to get there. 

We also chat about Emirates' new data about the hot European destinations this winter, and Airbnb's spring travel report is out with some top tips for staying safe when you are a solo traveller.

https://cocoskeelingislands.com.au/

https://news.airbnb.com/2025-spring-trends-travelers-embrace-soft-slow-travel/

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He's also a hardcore aviation geek with a huge YouTube following for his airline reviews and behind-the-scenes access into the world of aviation, answering all the big questions like, "What happens to airline blankets?" 

He shares his hot tips for best airlines in all classes, adds a few airport lounge hacks and 'fesses up to the country-counting competition of his family. See bunniktours.com.au   

Also, where to go if you're seeking spiritual enlightenment on your next trip. New research from Psychic World reveals the top destinations we're searching for that deepen our connection to faith, heritage and history.

And a new study by Australian luggage brand Kadi Luggage reveals the best time and day of the week to schedule your flights at five major Australian airports to avoid the dread flight delays.

https://kadiluggage.com/

Finally, where is Belle off to this week? Tune in...

https://www.youtube.com/c/DennisBunnikTravels  

https://www.slv.vic.gov.au/whats-on/world-book 

https://www.psychicworld.com/

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The 2,400-kilometre challenge saw her paddle for weeks on end. She tells us why she did it, recounts the tough challenges she faced along the way and tells us where the best spots are if you want to follow in her wake.

Watch Laura here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VCRARCeTKyw

The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards has revealed the best in the business, from tourist attractions and festivals to five-star accommodation.

And non-bank lender MONEYME has analysed Australia’s 10 most popular holiday destinations to find the best and worst value destinations for travellers.

Finally, we give you a sneak peek into one of Melbourne's most anticipated luxury hotels, 1 Hotel, and explain why this hotel is gaining so much attention.

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Lucy is a bibliotherapist and bespoke library curator who has designed a series of upcoming reading retreats in France, Wales and Australia.
  
Expect silent book clubs or find a cosy nook by the fire or pool to read, as well as a bibliotherapy session and a book 'prescription'. Each retreat has a theme, stories shaped by the sea, a French-inspired reading list inspired by the allure of France, and a winter retreat where houses are the central character.

Co-host Belle also asks Lucy for her travel lit hot list, which includes:

Holy Cow! (India) Sarah MacDonald
Wild (USA) Sheryl Strayed
In Search of Silence (India & New Zealand) Poorna Bell 
Eat Pray Love (India, Italy, Indonesia) Elizabeth Gilbert
Hideous Kinky (Morocco) Esther Freud and her favourite travelogue;
A Year in Provence (France) Peter Mayle.

For more about Lucy's reading retreats in Provence, Wales or Daylesford here in Australia and her bibliotherapy practice, visit thelitedit.com  You can also sign up to her substack, and follow her on Instagram.

And what kind of holidays are we taking? Find out what's hot right now, according to new research from experience network Big Red Group.

We also hit the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival; Kirstie went to the Longest Lunch - think hundreds of meters of tables set along the lawns of Kings Domain, while Belle went to gaol. She sat down to what should have been Ned Kelly's final dinner the atmospheric Old Melbourne Gaol. There are still more free and low-cost events at the festival, or pop in the diary for the 2026 festival; https://www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au

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Keith Sproule oversees 55 philanthropy projects for A&K in 24 countries, including this one that he mentions, where A&K opens bike shops for women across Africa and the Middle East who use the money to buy homes and ensure their children have access to a better education. 

Also, TravelInsurance.com.au research shows many Aussie travellers are choosing Asia over Europe – we explain why, and our tip is about the top five passport mistakes you need to avoid by Smartraveller.

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This coming week sees the celebration of St Patrick's Day, one of the biggest festivals on the Emerald Isle. Walk the famous saint's waymarked way, or find your  own celebration, from the long-running Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival to the Puca Festival, marking the pagan event Samhain, the ancestor of Halloween. Ireland's most famous literary son, Oscar Wilde, died 125 years ago in 2025, and is celebrated in a new Wilde weekend, In Our Dreams.

Then, we take an about-turn back to Australia. "Melbourne is a city of stories," says author, guide and Melbourne aficionado Dale Campisi, whose new book, Naarm/Melbourne Neighbourhoods is a wealth of history, walks and minutiae about the Victorian capital. 

We ask Dale all your burning questions; did Melbourne narrowly avoid being called Batmania? Which Melbourne skyscraper is drizzled in (symbolic) blood? And was Flinders Street Station really supposed to be built in Mumbai? He also talks about Naarm/Melbourne's indigenous history, and what the land was like before Europeans settled here. 

We also have a giveaway! To win a copy of Dale's book, drop us a line at hello@theworldawaits.au to be in the running.  

And our tip this week is the art exhibitions you need to see right now. We're talking Inca gold, Japanese pumpkins and Australia's contribution to Europe's 20th-century, avant-garde art movement. 

Melbourne @ National Gallery of Victoria ngv.vic.gov.au/exhibition/yayoi-kusama/ 

Sydney @ Australian Museum australian.museum/exhibition/machu-picchu/ 

Canberra @ National Gallery nga.gov.au/exhibitions/anne-dangar/ 

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With International Women's Day fast approaching, there couldn’t be a more fitting interview for this week as Lucy attempts to be the first woman to walk the world from Argentina to Alaska, covering 30,000 kilometres across 14 countries, with her dog Wombat in tow.  

Lucy shares her favourite places to hike and explains what it’s like walking through regions so dangerous you need a police escort tanglesandtail.com

Also, the world's best food destinations according to  British online travel agency Travel Bag - which Australian city's taken the coveted prize of the global food capital and we're talking gold-covered baklava (say Dubai without saying Dubai) travelbag.co.uk

NIB Travel has seven top tips to beat jet lag, nibtravelinsurance.com.au and Belle opens the doors to the Little National Hotel in Sydney’s CBD littlenationalhotel.com.au/Sydney/

Drop us your thoughts on this week's episode at hello@theworldawaits.au - we love hearing from our listeners!

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We also chat about the NZ$500,000 campaign to lure Aussies across the ditch. Have you heard of the new tagline? Sublime or a stinker? Take a listen to hear our thoughts, newzealand.com 

And here's a link to Australia's own tourism classic youtube.com/watch?v=LaWrkBo0t1o and the current Swiss campaign, which we love, features Roger Federer and Trevor Noah, youtube.com/watch?v=5JK7vjVaIvo 

And how do you avoid Japan's cherry blossom crowds? We're thinking outside the box on this one... japan-guide.com/sakura/ 

Drop us your thoughts on this week's episode at hello@theworldawaits.au - we love hearing from our listeners!

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His new travel gear recommendations are:
Ninja water bottle
Bellroy Lite Travel Pack
Sony in-ear headphones
The Bevledge - ta-da!
and Belle's addition, thanks to guide James Burt of the Tasmanian Walking Company, is the Wollemi 90 Ultralight Expedition pack

Also, Kirstie and Belle chat about their recent stay at the newly reopened Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Town Hall, and bring you the best news from the world's biggest travel industry meet, by TravMedia. 

And finally, we touch on the UK's new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and ask; where will you find the world's most polite drivers?  

Drop us your thoughts on hello@theworldawaits.au - we'd love to hear!

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Our guest this week is Sol Campos de Parry, Peru trade commissioner to Australia, who talks about the joy of hiking to the Inca City's Sun Gate. But if you miss out on a hiking permit up the Inca Trail, or are keen to explore other trails in Peru, Sol also takes us to other great walking destinations in the Amazon and Ancash's classic Laguna 69 trek in Huascarán National Park. Beware - Laguna 69 is at over 4600m, so she also shares some tips on adapting to high altitudes.

Also, this week, all the news of new hotels, restaurants and adventures on the Sunshine Coast. See visitsunshinecoast.com

And hello to all the lovers out there - Kirstie and Belle name their most romantic hotels for Valentine's Day, guaranteed to make you swoon!

This episode is sponsored by Explore Worldwide, which offers small-group adventures with local tour leaders. Click here for adventure travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide. Don’t Just Travel, Explore.

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It was an accident, quite literally, that saw Mitsakos fall in love with Greece, and now she splits her time between Athens and the Greek island of Paros. She takes us to some of the country's best artisans where she buys her artefacts, and shares insider tips on the best way to enjoy a Greek getaway. 

We also talk about all the new flight routes landing in Australia, and our tip this week is from Smartraveller about how to stay safe when drinking overseas. Watch Belle’s interview on ABC News TV here. See Smartraveller’s tips here. 

This episode is sponsored by Explore Worldwide, which offers small-group adventures with local tour leaders. Click here for adventure travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide. Don’t Just Travel, Explore.

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Few people would be as passionate about their country as Juan, who has been taking tours to experience Costa Rica's incredible flora and fauna for more than three decades. He talks to us about what makes the Central American country the best destination for a nature escape, and how it plans to be the world’s first ‘blue country’. 

We also chat about the world's safest airlines by Airline Ratings; and what do you do when you make a purchase overseas and are given the option to pay in multiple currencies? We explain the best way to save with a tip from CNN journalist and host of the travel series, Quest’s World of Wonder, Richard Quest.

This episode is sponsored by Explore Worldwide, which offers small-group adventures with local tour leaders. Click here for adventure travel inspiration to Costa Rica from our friends at Explore Worldwide. Don’t Just Travel, Explore.

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Luke, who co-authored the book 'Only in Tokyo: Two Chefs, 24 Hours, the Ultimate Food City', shares his favourite, and most confronting dishes, and talks about the endless pursuit of understanding Japanese food and its refinement, see https://www.instagram.com/lukeburgess77/?hl=en

Also, Lonely Planet's much anticipated global best beaches of 2025 list has dropped and Australia has made the top two; and travel is still top of our wishlist, according to a new survey from money.com.au.

This episode is sponsored by Explore Worldwide, which offers small group adventures with local tour leaders. Click here for adventure travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide. Don’t Just Travel, Explore.

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We also chat about the top travel trends for 2025 from coolcations to radical sabbaticals exploreworldwide.com.au/travel-trends-2025, and we share some great tips from Etihad’s cabin crew about inflight skincare.

This episode is sponsored by Explore Worldwide, which offers small group adventures with local tour leaders. We dare you not to be tempted by these incredible tours.

Click here for Adventure Travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide. Don’t Just Travel, Explore.

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Want to get the best airfare to Europe or the US? Co-founder of Complex Travel Group, Mark Trim shares insider secrets on airlines to watch, alternative routes and the best time to buy. Trim's advice on what constitutes the 'best' airfare might also surprise you. complextravel.com.au

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Then all aboard for The Orient Express, The Ghan, The Flying Scotsman or The Rocky Mountaineer with train aficionado and travel writer Tim Richards. The author of several books including Heading South and Ultimate Train Journeys, he chats about why sleeper trains are back in fashion, new innovations in train travel, the best, scenic train routes and how to train on a budget, iwriter.com.au

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“Memphis really is the centre of the journey,” says Glenn, who suggests starting in New Orleans and driving through four or five states – with even a river cruise in the mix – to find the places of legend. We're talking the crossroads where Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil in exchange for fame, the studio where Rolling Stone Keith Richards sat on the toilet and wrote the lyrics to Wild Horses, whether Elvis really was afraid of flying and the Tallahatchie Bridge, to name just a few sights on his dream US roadtrip, follow him here: facebook.com/officialglennabaker   

He’s even built us a soundtrack to drive by. So get a big convertible, plug in the playlist, and step on the gas. 

Also, we’ve got Wicked fever as Belle checks out the new movie and the Novotel Melbourne Central and its Wicked packages. Also, the World’s 50 Best Bars list is out, and three of them are here in Australia, and what do you do with your left-over foreign currency? ALL.com says Australians are sitting on more than one billion dollars in unspent foreign currency! If you have spare cash, you could donate it to the good people at UNICEF via this currency exchange outlet, travelmoneyoz.com/donate-foreign-coin   

For more, see;

www.hardiegrantgift.com.au/books/ultimate-island-escapes-australia-9781741178821
www.theworlds50best.com/bars/index.html
novotel.accor.com/a/en/offers/apac-wicked-the-movie.html
novotel.accor.com/a/en/offers/novotel-family.html 

We also asked Glenn A Baker for his mix tape for a US roadtrip through the musical south. Here's what he gave us:

Elvis Presley - That’s All Right Mama/Good Rockin’ Tonight
Jerry Lee Lewis - Great Balls of Fire/Whole Lotta Shakin’ Going On
Roy Orbison - Only The Lonely
Little Richard - Tutti Frutti/Long Tall Sally
B.B. King - The Thrill Is Gone
Booker T & MGs - Green Onions/Soul Limbo/Time Is Tight
Carla  Thomas - Gee Whiz
Rufus Thomas - Walking The Dog
Otis Redding - I Can’t Turn You Loose
Percy Sledge - When A Man Loves A Woman
Sam & Dave - Hold On I’m Coming/Soul Man
Wilson Pickett - In The Midnight Hour/Land of 1000 Dances
Aretha Franklin - I Never Loved A Man
The Mar Kays - Soul Finger
Eddie Floyd - Knock On Wood
Hank Williams - Move It On Over
Jimmie Rodgers - Blue Yodel

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Having spent so much time on the ocean and seeing the effects of pollution and climate change, she is a powerful advocate for sustainability with the Climate Action Now project and Boating Industry Australia's Sustainability Ambassador. See lisablairsailstheworld.com and the new movie about her adventures, Ice Maiden.

Which do you think are the safest countries to travel through? Travel insurer Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection’s research shows some of the best are very, very close to home;  bhtp.com/blog/safest-places-to-travel/

And how do you get a bargain in Bali? The Bali Bible shares some tips for getting not the lowest price, but the price that is fair for both you - the buyer - as well as the seller. The trick? To treat haggling as a charming game, see thebalibible.com 

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Cruise expert Honida Beram has sailed the seven seas on more than 50 cruises; she explains the best cruise for you to choose.

Also, Lonely Planet’s annual Best in Travel list – the breakdown of where to travel in 2025 and why, see lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel

And if you’re heartbroken and footloose, we reveal the best places to travel after a break-up, with travel blogger Miss Tourist giving a ‘heartbreak healing’ score for each destination. misstourist.com

Belle’s reading tip for armchair travel to Savannah, USA; Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil by John Berendt 

Kirstie’s tip for the adult-only island resort Likuliku likulikulagoon.com

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Belle and Kirstie also chat about American Express Travel’s annual ‘Trending Destinations’ list – with the top global destination right here in Australia, americanexpress.com

Finally, keep your gut happy when you travel with this great tip. We’re talking the perils of earlybird dining in Spain, and at what time street eats become a bad idea, from Southern Cross Travel Insurance, scti.com.au 

And a few notes from the show this week - 

Brisbane: Gourmet Traveller magazine’s top restaurant is found in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley – visit Agnes for smoking hot wood-fire cooking,  agnesrestaurant.com.au/ More on Brisbane’s new ‘green’ bridges here smh.com.au/traveller/inspiration/the-new-global-design-marvels-to-bucket-list-including-two-here-20240830-p5k6m7.html 

And Belle’s story on the ethics of swimming with whales here smh.com.au/traveller/inspiration/i-swam-australia-s-humpback-highway-but-should-i-have-20240917-p5kbb7.html 

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Have you ever dreamt of packing it all in and travelling the world? That’s what Tim and Sharyn Nilsen have done and the only retirement plans they have are to keep ticking off the list of countries they visit – well, those that are left.
This week, Sharyn gives some great advice as to how you can do it too.
https://catchourtravelbug.com

We also cover Intrepid Travel’s ‘not-hot’ list, a reaction against overtourism. These are their top picks of the best lesser-known places you need to have on your radar (intrepidtravel.com/au/newsroom/releases/intrepid-releases-2025-not-hot-list) and we have the great debate about what time you should arrive at the airport.

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Kirstie Bedford
Belinda Jackson

Audio production and editing by
Alaisdair Leith

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We also reveal new research from Emirates that shows where Aussies are travelling, and share some quirky hotels for an unforgettable honeymoon, with luxury hotel travel booker Mr & Mrs Smith.

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Audio production by Alaisdair Leith

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Belle’s Victorian High Country wellness weekend was at The Barn at Freeburg and Haut Hutt sauna on the Ovens River, morning vinyasa yoga, and a facial and massage at Botanic Alps, lunch at veg/vegan cafe Wild Thyme and dinners at Reed & Co distillery and Tomahawks – phew! 

victoriashighcountry.com.au
goodstoneinc.com
nibtravelinsurance.com.au

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She leads you through Norway’s world-leading food and wine scene, shares cultural experiences with the Indigenous people, as well as its impressive architecture, including its public toilets (they really are that good), upnorway.com

Also this episode, we’re talking the most liveable cities in 2024 – and a repeat offender comes in top spot, once again. Even if you can’t live there, clearly these are great places you want to visit. And our tip this week is all about language apps. economistgroup.com

And Cunard’s Great Australian Culinary Voyage in February 2025 on the Queen Elizabeth will feature Big Esso chef Nornie Bero, from the Torres Strait Islands, as well as dessert king Darren Purchese, Matt Moran and others

cunard.com

mabumabu.com.au

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Follow Host Kirstie Bedford on Instagram here
Follow audio producer Alaisdair on Instagram here

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Walking slowly in silence in the Nepalese Himalayas is just one of the ways travel writer Nina Karnikowski says we can embrace mindful travel. Belle talks to Nina about taking the time to travel, and taking in the world around us on a more acute level. “We can travel at a pace so fast, we actually miss all the wonder around us as we tick our boxes and return home exhausted," she says. 

See more about Nina’s work, including her latest book, The Mindful Traveller, at ⁠ninakarnikowski.com, and for more about her upcoming tour to the Nepalese Himalayas, visit worldexpeditions.com 

We also have a gorgeous giveaway from Gypsea Loop, a gold or silver hair tie bangle. To win, email us at hello@theworldawaits.au and tell us where you’d like to wear the bangle. Bonus entries if you like and follow on instagram at @theworldawaitspodcast and tag a friend!  

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Anyone who’s ever used a Lonely Planet guidebook will have read the story about how Tony and Maureen Wheeler wrote and published their first guidebook, Across Asia on the Cheap, on their kitchen table in 1973, finally selling the Lonely Planet behemoth in 2011. Tony talks about counting countries, flying with carry-on only, his favourite country and the art of travel. He also shares what he’s reading now, tonywheeler.com.au

We also have a gorgeous giveaway from Gypsea Loop, a gold or silver Hair Tie Bangle. To win, email us at hello@theworldawaits.au and tell us where you'd like to wear the bangle. Bonus entries if you like and follow on instagram at @theworldawaitspodcast and tag a friend!   

What Tony’s reading now:

Dust On My Shoes by Peter Pinney
The Towers of Trebizond by Rose Macaulay 
We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver

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Here's our travel gear hotlist:

Gypsea Loop Hair Tie Bangle, our gorgeous giveaway, is designed by Tracy Morris of The Blonde Nomads Australian travelling family. In plated gold or silver, value $119. To enter our giveaway, email us at hello@theworldawaits.au, and tell us where you'd like to be wearing the bracelet. Bonus points if you follow @theworldawaitspodcast , like the post and tag a friend; gypsealoop.com 

TG90 Portable Charger - fast recharging on the go
Ray Ban Meta Headliner - sunglasses with video call, camera, speakers,
Twelve South Airfly Pro - wireless adapter
Peak Design Tech Pouch - best little bag in town
SunButter Reef Safe Sunscreen - Australian made, carbon neutral
Suvana Paw Paw & Honey Balm - organic, Australian made

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He’s eaten tarantulas, jumped out of planes, dropped his kilt while Highland dancing and even…gone camping *quelle horreur!* Kevin Moloney, together with his wife Janetta Stones, are 'the snobby travellers' on the incredibly successful Travel Guides show on Nine network. See https://www.9now.com.au/travel-guides

Also this week, should you wash that elephant in Thailand? Adventure World managing director Neil Rodgers chats about the importance of ethical travel and how to ensure you are doing the right thing by wildlife when you travel. 

"If you can touch an animal, it’s not a good experience... our whole element is teach not preach, I inherently think people want to do the right thing, but as an industry, we need to be harsh," he says. See https://www.adventureworld.com/ 
 
Next week, Alaisdair Leith joins Belle Jackson to talk about travel tech and the gadgets that make life on the road a little smoother. 

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Finally, celebrate World Martini Day with a martini (or two) - Garden Street Gin club’s mixologist George Bekarian recommends Bar Planet in Newtown, Bobby’s Free in Barcelona or his own bar, Cardea, in Sydney’s Barangaroo. See gardenstreet.com

Eliot Stein's book, Custodians of Wonder: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250281098/custodiansofwonder 

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Also, the rise in cruising and how much does an ultra-luxe, round-the-world cruise actually cost? We ask leading liners Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and also review chef Luke Mangan’s newest restaurant, Bistrot Bisou, in Hotel Indigo Melbourne  on Flinders, see silversea.com, regent.cruiselines.com, bistrotbisou.com.au

And a new book recommendation; Walking the Rock Country in Kakadu/Karrire kundenge karribolknan kunwarddehwardde by Diane Lucas and Ben Tyler is written in English and Kundjeyhmi, one of the 11 Bininj Kunwok languages of Kakadu and western Arnhem Land,  allenandunwin.com 

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Sanjib is a leading tour operator in West Japan, and talks about why Shikoku, Japan’s fourth largest island – with its tranquil Iya Valley,  ancient rope swings and famed ramen – offers an authentic cultural experience, and why going regional in Japan rewards curious travellers. See the Naoshima art house project benesse-artsite.jp 

We also talk accessible travel - Australians with disabilities spend $8 billion annually on tourism services, taking more than 20% of all day trips. We share some of Australia’s best accessible tourism experiences, such as the Three Sisters walk in the Blue Mountains and Quicksilver’s water-powered lift to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef.  For more, see australia.com/en/facts-and-planning/getting-around/accessible-travel-in-australia.html or visit Travel Without Limits,  Australia’s only disability specific magazine, travelwithoutlimits.com.au 

Finally, MasterChef judge Melissa Leong shares her tips for eating in Hong Kong. Mix fine dining with a market street walk – take a foodie tour through Central and Sheung Wan, or a seafood lunch and walk on Lamma Island, she says. And for fine dining, Melissa plumps for the Michelin-starred Man Wah restaurant, on top of the Mandarin Oriental - while you’re there, nip into the Aubrey, currently #17 on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list.
hongkongfoodietours.com/buy-tickets/central-sheung-wan-foodie-tour/
discoverhongkong.com 

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“In truth, by the time I arrived in Mongolia, I’d only been on a horse in five days,” Tim admits. “But I learned to ride horses amongst nomadic people of Mongolia and Kazakhstan.” See timcopejourneys.com

Also this week, a look at the disruptions in the aviation industry – the good (Nauru Airlines, Qantas) and bad (Bonza, Vanuatu) – and how you can get your Australian passport faster, and cheaper. You can thank us later! 

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Also, why not trade the southern winter for a food festival in northern Australia? The weather’s warm, they’ve got celeb chefs, and watermelon skiing. Believe us.

And our tip this week is about what to look for when booking an airport hotel while you’re in transit.

Taste of Port Douglas, 8-11 August tasteportdouglas.com.au
Curated Plate, Sunshine Coast, July 26-4 August thecuratedplate.com.au
Karrimanjbekkan An-me Kakadu (Taste of Kakadu), 24-26 May kakadutourism.com
Scenic Rim Eat Local Month, 1-3 June eatlocalmonth.com.au
Redfest Strawberry festival, 6 – 8 September redfest.com.au
Toowoomba festival of Food & Wine, 8-10 September tcof.com.au
Blackbutt Avocado festival, 14 September avofest.com.au 

And if you’d like to check out the Chicago packages with the Sofitel Melbourne, see sofitel-melbourne.com.au

As a bonus, Belle shares her favourite clip of the week, about the fact Melbourne still doesn’t have a rail link to the airport. Sound on. abc.net.au/melbourne/sammy-j-s-ode-to-melbourne-s-ariport-rail/103830622?utm 

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Also, we swish through the luxury of Dubai’s new signature hotel, Atlantis The Royal, with its sky-high pool bar collab with Dolce&Gabbana and the super-luxe Nobu beach bar, and celebrate the news that international flight prices are going down, according to research by Flight Centre, atlantis.com, karryon.com.au

Finally, Southern Cross Travel Insurance reveals the most common scams that target travellers, from the old “my taxi meter is broken” to visa application fraud, scti.com.au--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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We also take you on a quick run through the newly renovated boutique hotel The Lyall in South Yarra, and the four-star, wallet-friendly Dorsett Melbourne in central Melbourne, which just celebrated its first birthday, thelyall.com,⁠ dorsetthotels.com

And which is the world’s best airport? Skytrax’ annual award for top airport in 2024 goes to ...[tune in to find out!], while Houston wins best art in an airport for its outstanding visual and performance art, and Melbourne was the highest of the Australian airports to make the list, at #19. Do you agree Melbourne is the best Aussie airport? https://www.worldairportawards.com/the-worlds-top-10-airports-of-2024/ 

Finally, we get to the bottom of gastro, revealing which countries where you’re most likely to suffer gastro (hint, it’s not called Bali Belly or Delhi Belly for nothing), according to healthnews.com--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theworldawaits/message

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