Beach Travel Wine Podcast
Are you over 50 with a SENSE OF ADVENTURE AND HUMOUR? Want to know more than just touristy highlights when planning your next trip? Then join us, Lyle & Leanne, for a deep and entertaining dive into each destination. This podcast has everything from snipers in Italian alleys and medieval wine villages in Spain, to man-eating crocodiles in Australia and awe-inspiring bucket list activities in New Zealand. Also discover the best place for a glass of wine in every destination we visit. So please join us as we travel the world one wine and podcast at a time. www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, March 23, 2025
124. Adelaide Hills Wine Region, South Australia.
In this episode we are taking you on a wine tour to the Adelaide Hills, which is the closest wine region to Adelaide South Australia We share the great hop on hop off bus tour we did, the best way to organise a trip to the Adelaide hills and the top 4 wineries we visited. If you are planning or would like to visit the Adelaide Hills, or if you are just interested in great wine, then this is the episode for you. Stay listening to the end when we tell you all about why we have been missing in action for a few months – and what huge exciting travel plans we have coming up. Please enjoy episode 124 all about the Adelaide Hills wine region and if you want to see all the pictures and written information with links to tours and wineries then click on the link here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/124/adelaidehills
Fri, November 29, 2024
123. Adelaide, Top things to do in Adelaide, South Australia
Today we are off to one of the most underrated, and beautiful cities in Australia – Adelaide the capital of South Australia. We tell you all about what Adelaide is known for including food, wine, sport and music. We share some fascinating facts – like how just outside Adelaide is the largest safari experience outside Africa and hilarious stories like the one about how and why the sky turned black in the middle of a sunny day with babies screaming in their mother’s arms all in the surrounds of the stunning Botanic gardens. Besides our fascinating stories we give you some great hints and info about how to get around Adelaide and some must see things to do. If you would like to see all the pictures that go with this episode then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/123/adelaide
Tue, November 12, 2024
122. Tossa De Mar, Costa Brava Spain. Top things to do in Tossa de Mar.
Join us in today's episode as we take you to the gorgeous beach town of Tossa de Mar on the Costa Brava, in Spain. We share all the info about this incredible little city – the beaches, the cafes and restaurants, the walled fortress, the lighthouse, our magnificent accommodation and heaps more. If you want to hike – we tell you where to go, If you want to scuba dive we tell you where you can do that night or day. If you want a secluded beach – we share how to get there and if you want some great restaurant recommendations – we give youthose as well. Stay listening to the end to hear us share some funny stories, even one about a famous Hollywood actress from the 1950s which included a Spanish bullfighter. Lastly, we give you a heads up on one of the popular tourist activities that we certainly don’t recommend you do. Please enjoy episode 122 all about Tossa De Mar and if you would like to see all the pictures from this episode then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/122/tossa
Sun, November 03, 2024
121. Girona, Spain. Three days in Girona in Northern Spain
In today’s episode we are in Girona, just north of Barcelona in Spain. This is a little known Spanish gem and I’m sure after this episode you will definitely want to visit. Many people do daytrips from Barcelona as it is only 38 minutes on the fast train, but we share the best 3 day itinerary for exploring this interesting city. Of course we cover the fascinating history including the most preserved Jewish Quarter in Spain, we walk the city walls after we found the entrance (thanks to a group of teenagers who disappeared before our eyes). Girona is a huge sporting city and is world famous as being the place where many teams live and train for the tour de France. Stay listening to the end to hear about the best food, the most interesting cocktail we saw but also to find out about the “red bridge”. This bridge was designed and built by an extremely famous person – who was responsible for the most recognisable structure in the world, but he built this bridge first – So please enjoy episode 121, and if you want to see the photos of Girona then click the link here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/121/girona And if you look at the picture of the red bridge – you will instantly know who built it.
Sun, October 20, 2024
120. Montserrat and Barcelona - discover little known places in Barcelona
Did you know Barcelona has an Arc to Triumph – and it is at the entrance to a stunning park area filled with lakes, gold encrusted waterfalls, tropical jungle plants and even a zoo? No, neither did we and this was our 4th trip to Barcelona. Not only did we discover this gorgeous area, we finally went to the world-famous Montserrat monastery complex high in the mountains, just outside of the city. We loved it so much and can’t believe we left it this long to experience the incredible place. We share absolutely everything you need to know in this episode for the perfect visit. Stay listening to the end to hear how I braved my fear of heights to go up the funicular to experience probably the best views anywhere in Spain. If you would like to see all the pictures of the places we talk about in this episode, including the stunning views, then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/120/barcelona
Mon, October 07, 2024
119. Croatia Travel Guide and Highlights
Today’s episode is covering all the things you need to know for planning the perfect trip to Croatia. Whether you have 6 weeks like we did, or a shorter amount of time, we give you the must dos and definite don’ts. We also cover the places you can’t miss as well as the top things to do and see in those places. From the mountains of Istria, to the capital Zagreb, the stunning Plitvice Lakes, city walls of Dubrovnik and Emperor’s palace in Split to the best islands to visit – we cover it all for you. So please enjoy episode 119. Written summary is here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/119/croatia click here for all our Croatian Information www.beachtravelwine.com/croatia
Wed, September 25, 2024
118. Kotor, Montenegro. Travel to Kotor on the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro
Join us as we take you to Kotor in Montenegro, just over the border from Croatia. We spent 3 days exploring and we share all the info you need for a visit to this small medieval city. Learn about the old town, the fortress walk, the best speed boat tour where to stay and the best places to eat and drink. Of course, we cover some history and also some things to consider when travelling to Montenegro – including tips on crossing the border. Listen as we share the stories of how people kept buying us drinks, the music and dance festival we stumbled across and what to do – if like us you are in the middle of a complete electricity blackout in 40-degree heat for over 8 hours. Please enjoy episode 118 all about Kotor, if you want to see all the pictures that we took in Kotor, then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/118/kotor
Tue, September 10, 2024
117. Korcula, visit Croatia's prettiest island - Korcula
This week we are taking you to the most chilled, pretty island in Croatia, without all the day trippers and tourists - Korcula. We will share all the information about the old town which is known as the mini Dubrovnik. You will find out about the best wine and scenic tour to do and the hop on hop off water taxi that takes you to the most idyllic islands that surround Korcula. Learn about what to see in the old town, where to eat, where to stay and of course the best wine to try. Oh and the best spot to watch the famous sunsets. Please enjoy episode 117 all about our final destination in Croatia – Korcula. Click here to see all the pictures, maps and tours we talk about www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/117/korcula
Sun, September 01, 2024
Dubrovnik, Four Days in Dubrovnik, Croatia
[116] When you say you are going to Dubrovnik these four things come up every time 1. The famous city walls walk 2. The stunning old town area of Dubrovnik 3. The Game of Thrones locations where scenes were filmed 4. And the real infamous historical events this ancient city has endured. We share information on all of these with you – plus give you some great hints about staying in this medieval city. Stay listening to the end to hear how we snagged the best table at the sought-after Panorama Restaurant and the most unusual bar we have ever been to. To say we were blown away by Dubrovnik is a total understatement. It is one of those places that is so special and unique, that you just want everyone to go and experience it. Please enjoy this episode and if you want to see all the pictures that we took in Dubrovnik, then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/116/dubrovnik You can see the walking tour we did here https://www.viator.com/tours/Dubrovnik/Dubrovnik-Old-Town-15-Hour-Discovery-Tour/d904-3494OLDTOWN?pid=P00171043&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector
Thu, August 22, 2024
Hvar - the most glamorous island in Croatia
[115] If you want to go where the rich and famous hang out in Croatia, then today’s podcast is for you. Hvar Island is only an hour by ferry from split and is one of the most popular islands in Europe. You will hear all about the super yachts, party islands, glamourous beach clubs and restaurants. But its not all glamour, Hvar has a fascinating history as well and we take you to the Spanish fort that dominates the old town of Hvar with views to die for. Stay listening to the end to hear how and where you can escape the party vibe and see more of the authentic side of Hvar. Hope you enjoy this fun episode and if you want to see all the pics (honestly make sure you check out the super yachts at night) then click here: www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/115/hvar
Sun, August 11, 2024
Best Wine Tour in Split, Croatia.
[Ep 114] This week we are sharing about a wine tour we did while in Split Croatia. To quote Lyle, I think this is the best wine tour we have ever done (and we have done a lot). That pretty much sums it up. It is the only wine tour where we have both shed a few tears, as the wine maker shared his story. But it isn’t all sad – in fact it is the opposite. It was a spectacular vineyard and wine tasting tour where the wine was fabulous, the views amazing and the company great fun. Make sure you listen to the end to hear about what some of the other people on the wine tour had us all singing – here’s a hint - they were from Sweden – so you can probably guess. If you would like to see all the pictures of the incredible views from the Seaview tasting rooms or from the rest of our wine tour, then click the link here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/114/splitwine
Sun, August 04, 2024
Split, Croatia. Travel to Split on the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia
[Ep 113] This week Lyle and I are in the second biggest city in Croatia – Split. Split has everything you need for the perfect holiday – clear warm water for swimming, idyllic islands, forest walks, history, food and wine and stunning views and for those who like it – a great night life. We share the fun hike we did through a forest to a secluded beach, a speed boat tour to gorgeous Croatian islands, all about the history and amazing architecture of the 1,700 year old Emperor’s palace and all the best places to eat and drink throughout the plazas and squares in the old town. We had a jam-packed 4 days in Split and loved every minute and would highly recommend it as a great spot to stay when in Croatia. Once again if you want to see all the pictures or find out more about Split, then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/113/split
Sun, July 28, 2024
Zadar the hidden gem of Croatia. Visit Zadar on the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia.
[Ep 112] Hello and welcome to the Beach Travel Wine podcast where Lyle and I are taking you from the lush green part of Croatia to the famous Dalmatian Coast area on the Adriatic Sea. Today’s episode is about Zadar – now this coastal city isn’t as famous or popular as some other parts of Croatia – but it should be. Zadar has the history, the beaches, the islands, the day trips, the food and wine, city walls, old town, cathedrals and so much more – plus it is cheaper and there are a lot less people – so a perfect spot to explore in Croatia. Also Zadar is known for the famous sea organ, the Greeting to the Sun solar light show, on the stunning promenade which is one of the best spots to enjoy a sunset anywhere in Croatia. We tell you all about the history, some hidden gems, where to find the best swimming spots, which day trips to do and a really fun experience that completely surprised us. If you want to see the pictures that we took around Zadar – and all the places we talk about then click the link here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/112/zadar Please enjoy this episode all about Zadar
Sun, July 21, 2024
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia - a complete guide
[Ep 111] I have been waiting to do this podcast episode for weeks – and I'm so excited and happy to be sharing all the information about Plitvice Lakes National Park with you. Imagine stepping into a fairytale where 16 crystal-clear, turquoise lakes cascade into each other, surrounded by lush, green forests and over 90 breathtaking waterfalls welcome to Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia. As one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. We take you Wandering along wooden walkways, exploring tranquil lakes, and marveling at the park’s tallest waterfall, Veliki Slap. Stay listening to the end of the podcast to learn all the information on which entrances and tracks to take for the best experience, where to stay and some other great helpful information like how to visit for half price! Please enjoy episode 111 and as usual I have a one page summary and stunning pictures of the lakes and waterfalls and the secret view point and you can see them by clicking here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/111/plitvice
Tue, July 09, 2024
Best Wine Tour from Zagreb, Croatia.
[110] Today we are taking you on a wonderful private, boutique wine tour that we did out of Zagreb. We visited the Plesivica wine region and in particular one of the most famous wineries in Croatia, Jagunic winery. The views down over the rolling hills covered in vineyards, with small churches and stone houses perched on the hillsides were incredible. The mountains were lush and green and made the perfect backdrop for our day trip. We tell you about the wine regions, what wines you should try and also about a little town we visited that is the entrepreneurial capital of Croatia and is famous for its cakes but also making the fastest electric cars in the world. Stay listening to the end when we tell you about our guides, how they made the rest of our Croation trip even better, but also how you can plan the perfect Croatian adventure that caters for just you and the things you want to see and do. We wish we had known about this service before we left Australia. Please enjoy episode 110 and if you want to see the Croatian travel website we talk about or all the pictures we took of our luxury wine tour, then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/110/zagrebwine
Wed, July 03, 2024
Zagreb, Croatia. Top things to do in Croatia's Capital City - Zagreb.
[109] Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia is where we are taking you in this week's episode. If you want to know all about what to do when you go to Zagreb then this is the episode for you. You will learn about the fascinating history, the upper and lower towns in the city centre. We take you on a fantastic walking tour through markets, bloody bridges and religious pilgrim sites as well as to the well-known cathedrals and buildings in the city. You will also learn about the oldest park in Zagreb that is as big as New York’s central park, the biggest and oldest cemetery in Croatia (because of course you should always visit cemeteries when you are on holidays). Discover what the "green horse shoe” is and well as why there is a very grand old hotel called The Esplanade near the train station. Listen to the end to hear what crowds gather for every day that has been happening at the same time each day for 100’s of years. Trust me this podcast goes off with a bang. Of course, we share the best spots to eat and drink and some other great tips and highlights when visiting Zagreb – which has now become one of our favourite cities. Click here to see all the pictures and one page guide to Zagreb www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/109/zagreb
Tue, June 25, 2024
Motovun and Hilltop Villages. Best day trips on Istrian Peninsula, Croatia
[Ep 108] Imagine being in a medieval hilltop village that was recently a ghost town – but now is a thriving village full of art galleries, cafes and artisan shops? Well that is only one of the incredible places we are taking you today on our day trip through the Istrian Peninsular. We will weave our way from the popular seaside town of Poreč with its famous cathedral full of intricate mosaics, to Groznjan the special village full of colour, art and classical music and finally to the most famous hilltop village in Croatia with its truffles and a wine with a very – let’s say - unusual name. Once again you can see all the pictures, one page written guide with links to the tours and places we mention in the podcast by clicking here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/108/motovun
Tue, June 18, 2024
Rovinj, Croatia. Travel to Rovinj on the Istrian Peninsular of Croatia
[107] Rovinj on the Istrian Peninsular in Croatia is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression. From the very first moment you arrive, you realise this place is special. In this episode we take you all around the stunning 2,000 year old narrow cobblestone streets, past pastel coloured buildings, art galleries, artisan shops, cafes and restaurants up to the highest point – Saint Eufemia church – with the most spectacular 360 degree views. Next, we guide you around the harbour full of fishing boats and surrounded by pretty restaurants all selling the fresh catch of the day. There is a glamorous modern side to Rovinj as well, and we tell you about the Grand Hotel Park, the fancy marina plus the stunning beaches all within in an easy walk of the old town. We share a couple of surprisingly expensive things you can hire in Rovinj, including a super yacht as well as the best place to enjoy the famous sunset that Rovinj is known for. I really hope you enjoy this episode all about Rovinj, Croatia – and if you want to see all the pictures from this episode just click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/107/rovinj
Tue, June 11, 2024
Lake Bled and Vintgar Gorge, Slovenia. Travel to the Lake Bled, Slovenia.
[Ep 106] Our visit to Lake Bled was so much better than I had hoped. It is a truly spectacular part of the world. We just couldn’t believe how beautiful it was. The turquoise colour of the water, the gorgeous green trees, the snow capped mountains, the wooden boats, the boardwalks – just everything. We will give you advice about the best things to do and where to go, the best day trips and also where to stay –There is one experience that everyone does, but really is a bit overrated and you can totally miss if you are short on time. Then, omg, if you think Lake Bled is stunning – then you wait to you hear about our visit to Vintgar Gorge. This is a 1.6km wooden boardwalk that clings to the edge of 50 to 100m sheer cliffs and takes you over the rapids and water holes all the way to the biggest waterfall in Slovenia. I have to say this is one of my favourite things that I have ever done. I’m trying not to exaggerate – but it was absolutely incredible. I want you to do me a favour please, click here to see all the amazing sights of Lake Bled and Vintgar Gorge. www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/106/bled Please enjoy episode 106 all about the stunning Lake Bled in Slovenia.
Tue, June 04, 2024
Predjama Castle & Postojna Caves, Slovenia. Best day trip from Ljubljana, Slovenia
[Ep 105] This is exciting – we are taking you on the most spectacular daytrip from Ljubljana. We are going to guide you around a five storey castle, built in an enormous cave over 800 years ago. You won’t believe some of the things we saw and the history we share about Predjama Castle. As if that isn’t awesome enough – we then are going to take you with us to the most well known caves in the world. Postojna Caves. Now these caves have been operating as a tourist destination for over 200 years. Can you imagine being 5km in the side of a mountain, 240 meters underground with no electricity? Well thankfully they now have electricity and a train system that takes you deep inside. You can then walk around the absolutely spectacular caves system. You will see all sorts of formations, from 1000’s of tiny spaghetti like stalactites on the roof, to giant columns of pure white that just glow, plus a whole lot more. If you would like to see all the pictures of these two amazing places that we visited – and to be honest you really have to see them – then click on the link here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/105/sloveniacaves
Mon, May 27, 2024
Ljubljana, Slovenia. Travel to Ljubljana, capital of Slovenia
[Ep 104] Today we are taking you all around the fairytale city of Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. Think castles, dragons, poetry, tree lined canals, parks with friendly squirrels plus a whole lot more. You will hear all about the fascinating history, and all the top things to see in Ljubljana as well as where the locals hang out for drinks and meals and the famous fresh food and flower markets as well as the popular street food markets that are held every week. We take you on a fascinating walking tour, and share why out of the population of 200k, 70k of those are young people who get half price food and drinks all over the city. You will come with us through vineyards in the city as we tell you all about the local wine and of course the cheapest place to buy a drink that we found in Ljubljana. It is a fascinating city of young and old, art and music, nature and architecture. If you want to see all the pictures from this episode, then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/104/ljubljana Hope you enjoy episode 104 all about Ljubljana.
Tue, May 21, 2024
Budapest Hidden Gems - Amazing things to do in Budapest, Hungary
[Ep 103] This is third and final podcast all about Budapest, and we may have saved the best till last. In this episode we share three completely different experiences, but they are all incredible. Let’s start at the most famous thermal baths in Budapest. Come inside the stunning yellow building that surrounds 18 different thermal pools, baths saunas and steam rooms. We tell you everything you need to know about enjoying your time here. Next, we discover a real hidden gem, Margaret Island, right smack bang in the middle of the Danube. This is a local’s paradise filled with parklands, gardens, thermal baths, swimming pools, a zoo, musical water fountain, Japanese gardens, jogging track, restaurants, bars plus heaps more – you will want to hear all about it – we were blown away. Lastly, and probably our favourite day in Budapest was an amazing wine tour we did to a small wine region. We visited three different cellar doors, and they were so unique, one was an underground wine cellar that was 100’s of years old. We cover lots of ground in this one – so buckle up and enjoy episode 103 all about Budapest. If you would like to see the pictures, or find out more about the tours and tickets we bought then click the link to episode 103 here: www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/103/budapest
Tue, May 14, 2024
Fun Side of Budapest, Pest, in Budapest, Hungary.
[Ep 102] This week Lyle and I are taking you to explore the Pest side of Budapest. This is where the biggest Parliament building in Europe is – with its interior like a palace. Also, this side of Budapest is home to the largest synagogue in Europe, the amazing, trendy Ruin Bars and the tragic Shoes on Budapest monument. You will hear about the popular Hero Square, the incredible St Stephen's Basilica with his mummified hand inside. You will also learn about the best Danube River cruise to take and when to take it and lastly, we share the yummiest and oldest Hungarian food you should try. If you would like to see the pictures inside the stunning Hungarian Parliament, the mummified hand of St Stephen or the views from the Danube River Cruise then click on the link to episode 102 here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/102/budapest Please enjoy this episode all about the Pest Side of Budapest.
Tue, May 07, 2024
Budapest, Hungary. Explore the Buda side of Budapest.
We are excited that you are joining us on our first episode all about Budapest, the capital of Hungary. You will hear all about the famous Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion, the famous link bridge as well as how to navigate the metro, avoid taxi scammers and how to say “Cheers” in Hungarian, plus heaps more [Ep 101] This is the first episode about this amazing city as there is just so much to see and do here and we are jamming as much as we can into a week so we can give you all the info you need for a visit to Budapest. Hope you love the episode as much as we love this city, and don’t forget to see all the pictures or links to the tours we mention, then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/101/budapest Please enjoy episode 101 all about Budapest, Hungary.
Tue, April 23, 2024
100th episode, but what's next for Beach Travel Wine Podcast?
Ep 100. Today’s podcast is a little different. We are taking a few minutes to reflect on achieving 100 episodes and why this is such a big deal. We share some crazy stats and fun stories, but then we bring it back to you our loyal listeners and tell you what we have coming up in our next series of episodes as we are about to explore 5 countries in Europe so we can bring you lots of great, fun, informative podcast episodes. I also tell you about a free guide I have done at the request of many people about the 6 things I do to take great travel photos on my phone – one of them is so simple – but you would be surprised how many people make this mistake all the time. The guide will be in the episode description of this episode on the player, you are listening on now, so just click the link to episode 100 to download it. And thank you so much for listening to our podcast over the last 100 episodes – we are really grateful, and we would really appreciate it even more if you took the time to help celebrate our 100th episode by giving us a nice review or 5 stars on the podcast player you listen on. Hope you enjoy Episode 100 and please have a glass of wine and say cheers to us Lyle and Leanne at the Beach Travel Wine Podcast. Click here find episode 100 show notes and free photo guide download www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/100
Tue, April 16, 2024
Valencia, Spain. Top things to do in Valencia [Ep 99] (Greatest Hits Replay)
In this episode we are revisiting the third largest city in Spain - Valencia the City of Arts and Sciences and we are taking you exploring the city with us. Firstly we go to the beautifully decorated train station which is next to the bullring and we even take you inside the bull ring and to the toilet which is just one of the funny stories in this episode. Then it's on to a tuk tuk ride with us all over the city. We go through the city gates, across the stunning flower bridge, to the world famous Arts and Science museum before arriving at the marina where the 2007 America's Cup was held. Come with us as we tell about a great a day trip you can do to the popular Port Saplaya and Beach which is known as Valencia's little Venice. We share where you can take a boat ride through the Albufera Natural Park and then explore El Saler Beach where I share the story of Lyle being completely smashed and dumped in the surf - haha. Listen as we dance the night away at a local salsa club – well we had a go at dancing salsa. To this day this remains one of our favourite memories of not just Valencia but Spain. Stay listening to the end to hear all about the Spanish Elvis that was our entertainment for our last night in Valencia – and you even get to hear him sing Viva Espana So much fun and so much to see in Valencia – so please enjoy episode 99. If you would like to see all the pictures and one page guide to Valencia then click this link www.beachtravelwine.com/99/valencia
Thu, April 04, 2024
Seville, Andalucia, Spain. Travel to Seville and hear the top things to do in Seville Spain. Ep 98 replay
Hola, y benivenidos. This week we are revisiting our podcast all about Seville in Andalucia, Spain. Seville is many people’s favourite Spanish city and after this episode you will see why. Walk with us through the magnificent Alcazar with its stunning interior and gardens that were part of the Game of Thrones series. Next, we wander inside the world famous Sevilla Basilica, with the huge tower that I made Lyle climb to take some photos. We walk through the old town, visit some authentic tapas bars where my limited Spanish came in very handy. There is music everywhere you wander through Sevilla, which makes the atmosphere is incredible. We share some funny stories from our horse and carriage ride clip clopping around the main sights of Seville. Listen as we take you strolling along the beautiful river at sunset that runs through the middle of Sevilla. Stay listening to the end when we share one of the most stunning places in Sevilla, so stunning in fact that we went back at night as the sun was setting. You can see our beautiful pictures by clicking the link to episode 98 here. www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/98/seville Please enjoy episode 98
Mon, March 25, 2024
South Pacific Islands & Fun Family Activities on Quantum of the Seas - Ep 97
In this week’s episode we are sharing with you all about our cruise to the South Pacific Islands of New Caledonia and Mystery Island, Vanuatu. These islands are every bit as idyllic as you can imagine and you will learn all about what activities you can do like swimming with the turtles and what you need to know before and during a visit to these island paradises. After our island escapades we then share why the Quantum of the Seas is an absolute favourite cruise ship for families. You will hear about the activities on board that kids of all ages can do, including surfing, skydiving, rock climbing and believe it or not – dodgem cars plus all day ice cream and hotdogs. Stay listening to the end when we give you some quick fun facts about the Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas cruise ship before revealing our honest opinions of what we really thought about our first cruise experience together. Please enjoy episode 97 and don’t forget if you want to see all the pictures from this episode click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/97/cruise
Mon, March 18, 2024
96. Best Cruise Ship Activities. Entertainment and activities on Quantum of the Seas
Hello and welcome to episode 96. We are still cruising on the Quantum of the Seas in the south pacific. In this episode we are going to share all about the many food options, the fabulous and not so fabulous shows and entertainers and activities on the ship. Listen as I laugh out loud as Lyle admits to a hilarious counting error. You will hear all about how we crashed (or rather our friend) gate-crashed a karaoke night with Sweet Caroline and the Von Trapp family and what exactly happened at the hypnotist show – as the same friend took to the stage and entertained the whole crowd. Stay listening to hear about what we thought was going to be totally ridiculous, but actually turned out to be our absolute favourite thing to do on the ship. We couldn’t get enough of this crazy fun activity and I would go cruising again just to do this. We finish this week’s podcast with a little singalong with Lyle and I serenading you. Please enjoy Episode 96 and if you want to see all the photos from this episode then click on the link here w ww.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/96/cruise
Mon, March 11, 2024
95. Cruise on Quantum of the Seas. What it's really like for a first time cruise.
In today’s episode we are giving you all the information about cruising on the royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas ship. We sailed out of Brisbane Australia on a 7 day South Pacific Island cruise. This is the first cruise I have done as a passenger and the first one for Lyle in over 30 years – so we have all the helpful info you need if you are thinking about cruising for the first time – or if you just love everything about cruising, or even if you’re not sure cruising is for you. We tell you all the answers to the most asked questions and also give you some really helpful hints that we learnt in our week on board. You will also hear the best cruise story ever – as I said, I had never cruised as a passenger, but I did work on a cruise ship 14 years ago – and I’m not going to give anything else away – only to say I bet you have NEVER done a cruise like the one I did in March 2010! If you want to see all the pictures from this week’s episode then click the link to the webpage for episode 95 here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/95/cruise
Mon, March 04, 2024
94. Travel to Queensland Australia - bonus episode.
In this week's bonus episode we are sharing a fun interview we did with Randy from The Informed Traveler podcast. We talk all abour Queensland Australia and in particular the area of south east Queensland, including, the Gold Coast, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. We have a whole series on Australia - Aussie Summer Series that you can find here www.beachtravelwine.com/australia If you would like to hear more from Randy you can find him at www.theinformedtraveler.org
Mon, February 26, 2024
93. Australia Zoo. As Wild As Life Gets. Queensland, Australia
Crikey – this week we are taking you to the iconic Australia Zoo! As wild as life gets. Come with us as we walk over 10,000 steps and visit as much of the zoo as we can in a day. Firstly though, for all those people out there who think Australia is full of things that can kill you – we visit the Robert’s reptile house where we see at least half of the deadliest snakes IN THE WORLD. We take you to see Australia’s unique wildlife including wombats, koalas, wallabies, echidnas, kangaroos, emus, and did I mention deadly snakes? Oh and don’t forget the giant crocodiles. We make it to the Tiger Temple just in time to see the tiger show, and then past the elephants having a bath and dinner in the lake. Of course we go to Bindy’s Island where there are Lemurs swinging through the trees, boa constrictors in the tree house, and tortoises just munching their way around the island. Next up is Africa, where we learnt some fascinating facts about zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, rhinos and my favourite – Meerkats. We tell you as much as we can about the facilities at the zoo as well all the shows and feeding times. We also share the story of Steve Irwin and about the stunning memorial they have to honour him at the zoo. Stay listening to the end to hear how brave we were (and that’s a total exaggeration) as we recorded live in different locations around the zoo where wewere stalked by water dragons -which if you can believe it - wander freelyaround the zoo and are as scary as they sound. If you wouldlike to see all the pictures of took of the zoo and animals –including thedangerous snakes – then click on the link to episode 93 here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/93/australiazoo Hope you enjoy our wild exploration of Australia Zoo.
Sun, February 18, 2024
92. Noosa Heads, Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia.
This week we travel to the world famous Noosa Heads where we take you from the stunning main beach of Noosa to the most beautiful headland walk in the world. I mean where else can you see dolphins swimming in crystal clear water on one side of a hiking track and at the same time look up and see koalas in the trees? After that we take you wandering down the famous main street - Hastings Street - and give you an overview of the glamorous shops, restaurants and bars along the way. We were excited to take a day trip to Habitat Noosa which is a nature lovers delight. You start at Lake Cootharaba and take a leisurely boat ride through one of only two everglades in the world. The Noosa Everglades is so beautiful, relaxing and quiet and you can definitely capture some amazing photos in the reflective waters. After the cruise you can try one of their special artesian craft beers in the restaurant and outdoor dining area. Stay listening to the end to hear all about Lyle’s participation in the world renown Noosa Triathlon and also the main reason we love Noosa so much and I'm positive you won't guess what that is. Click here to see all the one page summary with pictures, links and maps for this episode: www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/92/noosa
Sun, February 11, 2024
91. Coolum Beach and Yandina, Sunshine Coast, Queensland
This week we went somewhere on the Sunshine Coast where neither of us had been before. We visited the little historic town of Yandina. We have both passed through Yandina before, but never stopped to have a look around. It is home to one of Queensland’s oldest pubs and railway stations. You can also find some funky cafes, restaurants and some gorgeous shops in the small main street area. In Yandina you will also find - as one reviewer says - “the finest restaurant in the world”. They are talking about the well loved Spirit House. After we filled up at one of the popular cafes, we headed to the famous Ginger Factory. It is one of the most visited attractions on the Sunshine Coast. We wander around, find the Gruffalo, sit under 1000 rainbow umbrellas and tell you all about the gardens, Morton the original steam train, the indoor boat ride, plus heaps more. Unfortunately we weren’t hungry so we didn’t enjoy a ginger scone or ginger icecream. Maybe next time. Lastly we drive 15 minutes to the popular beachside town of Coolum Beach. Coolum has the longest, flattest, widest beach on the Sunshine Coast and is very popular for surfing. It is unspoilt and the place to go if you want a relaxing beachside holiday without all the distractions. We give you all the info from our vantage spot on the balcony of the Coolum Beach Surf Club. It’s a tough life, but someone has to do it. Stay listening to the end to hear what birthday present I bought for Lyle at Coolum and the popular mountain that the locals love to climb – but is actually the second biggest rock in the world – after Uluru. If you would like to see the one page summary with links and the pictures I took while out and about recording this podcast – then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/91/coolum
Sun, February 04, 2024
90. Maleny, Sunshine Coast Hinterland Queensland, Australia. Rainforests, hikes and wildlife.
This week we are going to Maleny and hiking around two very unique areas in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. We visit a large protected rainforest area which is full of wildlife (including snakes) and some endangered species as well as the cute little pademelons you can easily see jumping around the rainforest undergrowth. Oh pademelons are little wallabies by the way. Next we go walking around a 110 acre tropical paradise garden and bird sanctuary. This area used to be a cattle farm and is now completely transformed to be one of, if not the most beautiful places on the Sunshine Coast. This is the where you can see the best views of the iconic Glass House Mountains (which are actually 13 unusually shaped ancient volcanic vents that dominate the landscape) There are tropical gardens, ponds and lakes, waterfalls, oriental gardens, rotundas dotted everywhere, plus so much more. It is truly beautiful. The bird sanctuary was started to house rescue birds and there are four walk-through aviaries where you can have an interactive experience with the birds from all over the world. There is even one parrot that sings opera and Old Macdonald had a farm. Stay listening to the end though, where I literally scream and escape over the fence from the miniature animals in the farm enclosure and then while I have a chat - up close and personal with a red-tailed black cockatoo. Advanced warning though– he is very vocal. We tell you about Maleny, the pretty little town that you can visit just a few kilometres away from these stunning places and the best accommodation and venues to eat while you are visiting. This episode is so full of nature, beauty and wildlife with the background chorus from the rainforest, birds and insects. If you would like to see the pictures I took while visiting this stunning area – then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/90/maleny
Sun, January 28, 2024
89. Eumundi, Noosa Hinterland. The Artisan capital of Queensland.
Well, you can’t say we don’t take you to some interesting places. This week’s episode is another in our Aussie Summer series here on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland Australia. We are heading about 20 minutes inland from the beach to one of the most visited places in the area. It is the picturesque village of Eumundi. Eumundi is famous in Australia and with international visitors as it has the biggest Artisan market in the country, and it is just a gorgeous little village. The market’s slogan is "make it, bake it, sew it grow it" – so there are no cheap overseas products to be found here. We take you down the shady tree-lined terraced avenues filled with every imaginable stall you can think of, including many delicious food vendors. We even do a quick impromptu interview with a nice guy who makes the best pineapple juice I have ever tasted. We also tell you about the very unique annual event that happens in Eumundi – it is the body art festival, which is Australia’s premier body art event and is a celebration of the passionate body painting industry. Stay listening to the end when we leave Eumundi and drive 9km to a new lunch and dinner venue that is quickly becoming the hottest place on the Sunshine Coast. It is called The Doonan, and we were left speechless by the whole place. If you would like to see the pictures I took as we walked around Eumundi or The Doonan or any of the links we mention – then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/89/eumundi
Sun, January 21, 2024
88. Montville, Sunshine Coast Hinterland. The most unique mountain village in Australia.
This week Lyle and I take you exploring the gorgeous Sunshine Coast hinterland area. In particular we record live as we walk around Montville which is an amazing little village perched right on the edge of the escarpment of the Blackhall ranges 500 metres above sea level. We start in a secret park area full of ponds and lush vegetation. Listen as we share just how stunning it is and you can hear all the birds singing in the background. Next, we take you with us along this quaint main street of Montville Village. Tourists flock to this main street and We share why, including all the unique shops, cafes, galleries, that make this village so popular. Even the footpath gets a shout out. I tell you about my favourite dress shop – and not just because of the clothes, but also the dressing room with no curtains. We half-jokingly call Montville the wedding capital of the world and you will understand why after his episode. Nothing in this little village is ordinary – in fact, most things are extraordinary – including the world-famous purpose-built wedding chapel. It is like nothing you have ever seen before. I tell you about my favourite spot in the main street and why and we finally make it to the top of town (a little bit puffed) where we used to live and run a business. We tell you all about our time here and the most beautiful beer garden we visited many times. Finally, we wander across the road to share the most spectacular view that is Instagram famous. Imagine every shade of green, forests, farmlands, hills, all gently rolling down all the way to the white strip of sand that lines the sparking blue Pacific Ocean – just spectacular, and you can enjoy a coffee, meal or cold drink (I mean wine obviously) while taking in the view. Stay listening to the end when we tell you all about the incredible national parks that surround Montville and the most popular hikes that form part of Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk. The Sunshine Coast hinterland is one of the most popular weekend getaway spots in the country and for good reason. Please enjoy episode 88. To see all the pictures from this episode click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/88/montville
Sun, January 14, 2024
87. Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia.
Today we are taking you for a walk all around Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast as we continue our Australian summer series. We used to live here and we just love it and you will see why when you listen to this episode. The Sunshine Coast is a massive tourist area in Queensland Australia and Mooloolaba is one of the most popular spots for holiday makers – and for good reason. We tell you all about the water activities available here including whale watching, scuba diving and sunset cruises. It is also home to the Mooloolaba Marina which houses up to 100 boats. We tell you about the newest and most popular dining spot in Mooloolaba and of course our favourite restaurant in the whole of the Sunshine Coast because of the fabulous food but also for another surprising reason. Come with us as we stroll past Underwater World Sea Life Aquarium and I tell you all about my visit here a couple of weeks ago and what you can expect to see. Next, we take you along the walkway through the dunes to parklands, barbecue areas, playgrounds and then to the “Seafood Precinct”. This is where all the fishing trawlers arrive each day with fresh seafood and you can buy it directly from the fish markets – or eat at one of the many restaurants that serve the local catch. Finally, we go to the famous Mooloolaba surf club and the patrolled beach area which is buzzing with families on the beach, along the parkland and in the playgrounds all the way to the Loo with a view. Lyle and I share a couple of hilarious stories from our boogie boarding days at this beach. Stay listening when we eventually end up at the most popular café, restaurant and shopping area in Mooloolaba. We give you some great info on best places to stay, where to buy your supplies and then we finish with a love story that went viral about a French girl and guy she met in Mooloolaba and her quest to find him. Please enjoy this fun Aussie summer episode all about Mooloolaba. If you would like to see all the pictures from this episode then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/87/mooloolaba Click here to see all our Australian podcasts www.beachtravelwine.com/australia or here for all our travel episodes www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast
Sun, January 07, 2024
86. King's Beach, Caloundra, Sunshine Coast, Queensland.
DO YOU DREAM OF TRAVELLING ALL OVER THE WORLD – BUT THEN REALISE WHERE YOU LIVE IS THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR EXPLORING? In today’s episode Lyle and I take you on a walking tour – literally – of our home beach which is the perfect destination for exploring. We are at King's Beach which is part of Caloundra, on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland Australia. We have our microphones on our T-shirts as we wander along the most popular beach in the area – which happens to be across the road from our home. We stroll through the parklands, playgrounds, past restaurants and cafes, the ocean pool and fountain and we describe them all as we go. Many people visit here each year – especially families in the school holidays and it is so beautiful, that we felt we should go out and about to share it with you. Make sure you stay listening to the end where we fill you in on all the activities and places that you can do and visit, all within a 30-minute drive or walk. We are talking water activities like surfing, jet skiing and sunset cruises as well as visiting world famous tourist attractions like Australia Zoo– Crikey – We tell you where you can go hiking up ancient volcanoes, as well as some secret places away from the crowds with fantastic views. There is so much to do here, and we are so excited to share our little piece of the paradise with you today. If you would like to see all the pictures and maps and show notes then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/86/caloundra For all our Australian podcast click here www.beachtravelwine.com/australia Please enjoy episode 86.
Mon, January 01, 2024
85. Best travel destinations of the year. We share our travel highlights.
We travelled to six countries in three continents around the world this year, which gave us heaps of content for our podcast. Thank you for listening and supporting us- it is a true labour of love, and we plan to keep bringing you great travel information and inspiration through our travel adventures from all over the world. Here’s to the next 52 weekly travel episodes, but first let’s give you a quick, fun overview of our favourite places and experiences we had this year, including Mexico, Italy and New Zealand. Stay listening to the end to hear what travel plans we have for 2024, which includes at least five more countries. We also share some of the ways we are going to experiment with the podcast so please enjoy episode 85 all about the best of our 2023 world travels. Find all the information and pictures about Mexico here: www.beachtravelwine.com/mexico Find all the information and pictures about Italy here: www.beachtravelwine.com/italy Find all the information and pictures about New Zealand here: www.beachtravelwine.com/newzealand
Tue, December 26, 2023
84. Best interview of 2023.
We have been interviewed on many podcasts throughout the year, but this one stands out as a favourite. We spoke to Regan and Allie from the Wanderlusting Wives podcast and we had so much fun. Lyle of course likes to tell all the horror stories and I like to share the nice ones. We talk about man-eating giant jumping crocodiles, becoming an honorary Tuna band member in Spain to the most romantic and idyllic wine drinking spot in Tuscany as well as our run in with a Sniper in Florence, plus heaps more. We had the girls gaping at our stories, laughing at some of our tales and just being blown away by the places we share and things we have done. I’m not sure we gave them much time to ask questions – but in the end it was a great interview full of great travel stories. So please enjoy our fun chat with the Wanderlusting Wives and if you enjoy this podcast you can find more of the girls on all the podcast platforms or their website www.wanderlustingwives.com or click here w ww.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/84/wives
Sun, December 17, 2023
83. Barcelona, Spain. Travel with us as we explore Barcelona and share the top things to do in Barcelona.
We have had so many people join our Beach Travel Wine community this year – especially podcast listeners. With the end of year statistics all out for us podcasters to analyse, it didn’t take much for Lyle and I to realise that our most popular podcast – by far – this year is our episode on Barcelona Spain, although there are a few Italian cities quickly catching up. We decided we are going to re-release it in this episode for those of you who haven’t had the chance to listen to it yet. It was the first city we visited in Spain, and then subsequently went on to explore over 50 more cities and villages throughout this amazing country. In this episode we take you all over Barcelona, from La Rambla, Plaza Real, Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, Park Guell, the Picaso Museum, the Maritime museum plus heaps more. We met some great people in this city and share some fun stories as well. If you would like to see all the pictures of Barcelona, then click on the link below www.beachtravelwine.com/leannes-blog/29/barcelona So please enjoy hearing all about the fabulous city that is Barcelona.
Sun, December 10, 2023
82. House Sitting Around the World. How to become an in-demand house sitter.
HOW TO BECOME AN IN-DEMAND HOUSE SITTER. HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT HOUSESITTING AS A WAY TO TRAVEL TO PLACES, STAY A BIT LONGER AND CONNECT WITH A LOCAL COMMUNITY? Well I certainly have, but I also had a lot of questions like: What website should I join or do I need to join one? What is the best way to apply for sits? What can I do to give me a better chance of being chosen? What if I don’t have any reviews because I haven’t started yet? – the questions go on and on and even though house sitting seems like a good idea – it is hard to know where to start. This week’s episode is going to give you all the answers and what next steps you can take if you are seriously considering housesitting. Because this week I am joined on the podcast by Brittnay from the travelling house sitters .com (and don’t worry the links to all the information Brittnay shares will be in the show notes) Brittnay has been house sitting for many years all over the world and she has a great website with lots of information and for those who are really keen a course that has absolutely everything you need to get started today. Just a heads up – I have done Brittnay’s course and after completing it – I reached out to see if she would come on our show and answer some questions that I know many people have about house sitting. I ask Brittnay some tough questions that I see people talking about online and some of my own reservations and she gives her honest and experienced feedback. For those who are interested in doing her course (which I highly recommend – I learnt so many things I didn’t even consider were important) then there will be a discount code in the show notes. Click on the show notes link below to access Brittnay's excellent housesitting masterclass/course and discount code as well as her website and also find out Britt's top 6 recommended housesitting sites and her contact details here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/82/housesit
Sun, December 03, 2023
81. Arrowtown, New Zealand. Top things to see and do in Arrowtown, Central Otago, New Zealand
Unfortunately, it took us four trips to New Zealand before we discovered Arrowtown. We had been recommended by friends and family many times to go. They all said – you have to go to Arrowtown – it is so beautiful, but we just hadn’t found the time. This trip though we did – and we were not disappointed. What a gorgeous, quaint little village. It has a population of just over 3,000 people and is right on the edge of the picturesque Arrow River. Many people come here to explore the varied hikes or bike trails and it is also the starting point for popular wine tours, both guided and bike tours. The main street, Buckingham Street, is like out of a time capsule and is full of fabulous shops and even more fabulous cafes and restaurants, some with fascinating histories. You can wander around town and see all the centuries old miners' huts or walk through the Chinese settlement that still has houses and shops in the original condition from the gold rush days. If you are feeling lucky you can even try your hand at gold panning. The local museum is renowned as being one of the best in New Zealand and is the local tourist information centre as well. If you want to see the pictures or the interactive map as well as the links to the places, we mention then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/81/arrowtown You can see all our New Zealand series here www.beachtravelwine.com/newzealand or check us out on Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/beachtravelwine/ Please enjoy episode 81 all about Arrowtown in New Zealand.
Sun, November 26, 2023
80. Bucket List Fun in Queenstown, New Zealand.
Do you have a bucket list – have you been ticking things off it – well in this episode I get to drag Lyle along – literally- to another one of my bucket list items that I know is on many other peoples to do before I kick the bucket list as well. We start our day in the icy, frosty, freezing, pre-sunrise morning and end up floating 7,000 feet over the most spectacular scenery watching the sunrise over snowcapped mountain ranges. Trust me if hot air ballooning isn’t something you have thought about doing – then you will after this episode. Next activity we share with you probably wouldn’t be classed as a bucket list item – but should definitely be on your to do list if you are in Queenstown and I believe that the end product of this afternoon class, that I once again dragged Lyle along, to is definitely a world first – I can guarantee that no other travel podcast in the world can say they have this. Here’s a hint – it smells good – and no it’s not wine. One of the most popular activities, and for good reason, and another one I had to convince Lyle to do (there’s a theme here) is the famous Shotover jet boat. Actually, I had to be persuaded into doing this as well – by my grandsons, but it was so worth it. It is a spectacular, exhilarating, fun, entertaining, educational, visually magnificent and another life long memory activity to do in Queenstown. Stay listening to the end to hear the about the activity that I absolutely refuse to do, Lyle too. No grandchild could persuade me to do this, but if you are braver than me you will want to hear all the details of this death defying activity that was invented in New Zealand. But you can – like we did, sit and sip fabulous Central Otago wine and watch the crazy, I mean brave, people take the plunge. Hope you enjoy Episode 80 all about some fabulous, fun, exhilarating and downright crazy activities that you can do if you are visiting New Zealand. Don’t forget if you would like to see the fabulous pictures I took of all the activities we did (especially the hot air ballooning) then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/80/bucketlist You can see all our New Zealand podcast, show notes, maps and links here www.beachtravelwine.com/newzealand
Sun, November 19, 2023
79. Best Wineries and Wine Tours in Central Otago, New Zealand.
Want to know about the best wineries to visit in Central Otago and the best ways to get there? Well then keep listening as we take you on a wine hopper experience through this picturesque wine region of New Zealand. There are many ways to explore the region, including the wine hopper tour, private tours and of course bike and e-bike tours. We share the details on all of these different ways to get around the region. Come with us as we visit one tavern, and seven very different vineyards and cellar doors which all have a unique way of sharing their wines with visitors. One of the cellar doors asks you to take a Flight of Fancy Quiz to see which one of five different wine tastings is perfect for you. That was so much fun. Other vineyards we visited were in rustic horse stables, one is featured in a famous TV show, another is a converted church. We had a wine tasting in the largest wine cave in New Zealand, enjoyed a prize-winning glamorous cellar door with the cutest little outdoor wine tasting cubby houses. We even tasted wine from the most southern cellar door in the world with a connection to Captain Cook and we marveled at the stunning views at each venue. The places we visited may have very different cellar doors and vineyards, but the one thing they have in common is their fabulous wine. Stay listening to the end where we tell you how you can visit two of the most well-known and prize winning wineries in Central Otago without driving, being on a tour or riding a bike and it only costs $2. So grab a glass, sit back and enjoy Episode 79 all about the stunning Central Otago Wine Region of New Zealand. If you want to see all the pictures of these vineyards and cellar doors, plus links to their websites and tours then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/79/winetour If you would like your business or region featured on our podcast then email leanne@beachtravelwine.com or message us on Instagram www.instagram.com/beachtravelwine/ You can visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, November 12, 2023
78. Wet Jacket Wine, Central Otago Wine Region, New Zealand
If you love nature, conservation, stunning wildnerness, spectacular landscapes, oh and fabulous wine – then this is the episode for you. Today we are talking all about the most southern wine tasting and wine cellar door in the world. It is owned by Greg Hay and these are his words. "Why on earth would you name a wine brand after one of the most remotest, wettest, farthrest from an actual vineyard place in New Zealand?" That place is called Wet Jacket Arm and the wine brand is Wet Jacket Wine We share the fascinating history of the name, why Greg loves it so much and how he has come to build one of the most popular wine brands from Central Otago, New Zealand. Of course Lyle geeks out on why the wine tastes so good, and we share all about Wet Jackets very unique way of sharing those wines with people who can’t get to visit the tasting rooms, oh and I almost forgot to tell you we also divulge where you can taste the wines if you are in this part of New Zealand and it is another venue with a spectacular view that only this area of New Zealand can deliver. Stay listening to the end to hear where Greg recommended a brand new restaurant to have dinner (nothing like a local to give you the best info) and of course the wine and views that we enjoyed on the waterfront in Queenstown. To sum up this episode – pristine nature, delicious wine, charismatic locals and dramatic awe-inspiring views. Click here for the show notes with all the relevant links and pictures www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/78/wetjacket Send us an email here www.beachtravelwine.com/contactus or send us a DM on instagram here www.instagram.com/beachtravelwine/ Please enjoy episode 78.
Sun, November 05, 2023
77. Milford Sound, New Zealand. Travel to the World Heritage Fiordland National Park in New Zealand.
Have you heard of the eighth natural wonder of the world? This week’s episode is all about this magical stunning part of New Zealand – Milford Sound in the Fiordland National Park. This was one of those experiences that was so incredible that it will definitely be a lifelong memory. We talk about it all the time and tell everyone we can to go a visit – and now you get to hear about it too. Not only are we going to take you cruising on the 16 kilometre long, 290 metre deep sound with 1600 metre sheer cliffs and 1000 metre waterfalls we also take you hiking in the lush rainforest. Come with us as we tell you about the underwater observatory where you can see rare black coral. We also tell you about and the gorgeous little town with a massive lake that is a bit of a secret and is the best place to stay if you want to have a few days in the area. Stay listening to the end to hear about our helicopter flight where we land on a glacier – yes we actually landed on the top of an actual glacier – it was freakin incredible it was like walking on top of the world. We give you all the options of how to explore this spectacular area, where to stay and what we would do different if we went back again – spoiler alert – stay longer in the only luxury accommodation at Milford sound. Remember if you want to see all the pictures and check out the map and the links to the tours, accommodation and helicopter flights then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/77/milfordsound If you want to get in contact and give us some suggestions for our next destination for a podcast series then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/contactus Visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com Please enjoy this week’s episode all about Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand.
Mon, October 30, 2023
76. Queenstown, New Zealand. The top things to do around Queenstown, New Zealand.
Did you know that Queenstown New Zealand isn’t just for extreme activities and snow sports. -although these are incredible, this week’s episode is all about what to do in Queenstown if you don’t ski or just want to enjoy exploring this unique part of New Zealand. For such a small town, Queenstown punches way above its weight. The views from all over the town are stunning. It doesn’t matter where you choose to have a coffee, wine or meal on the waterfront – you will be experiencing one of the most beautiful places in the world. Lake Wakatipu is the jewel in the middle of Queenstown, surrounded by snowcapped mountain ranges, including the Remarkables where Lord of the Rings was filmed. We tell you all about the water activities you can do or simply watch including submersible sharks, jet boats and an iconic steam boat that is as old as the Titanic. If you are into shopping the brand names here rival the stores in Paris, from Gucci to Rolex. We tell you about the unique wine tasting experience that we enjoyed and have never come across before and where we found the coolest toilets in town. Seriously. Come with us as we take you wandering around the Botanic gardens on the edge of town. From duck ponds, to gigantic pine trees to an unusual sport that we discovered here. We tell you the cheap way to explore the lake – how to get to the sunniest spot in town and then stay listening as Lyle tells us how I made him kiss a large kiwi. There are lots of laugh out loud moments to enjoy and great info all about being out and about in Queenstown. Click here to go to the webpage containing all the pictures, links and maps www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/76/queenstown Here is the link to all our New Zealand podcasts www.beachtravelwine.com/newzealand Or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com Please enjoy episode 76.
Sun, October 22, 2023
75. New Zealand Family Snow Trip. Travel to Queenstown New Zealand with three generations, the best holiday you can have with kids in New Zealand.
So many fun things happening in this episode all about travelling with three generations. Do you have kids or grandkids – thought about travelling on an adventure holiday with them? What about travelling internationally with eight kids 9 years and under to New Zealand for a ski holiday when none of the kids had ever tried it before or even seen snow? Well that’s exactly what this episode is about. And I’ve roped in a highly experienced guest host to help me share how this might just be the PERFECT holiday destination for your family adventure. But we don’t just talk skiing, we cover lots of other things great for every generation to do in this spectacular part of New Zealand that don’t cost a fortune including going to a snow farm – have you ever heard of such a thing – and no they’re not growing things in snow. We cover our favourite family adventure activities, the best walks around the lake for kids and old nanas and the best place to stay, and how to minimize the cost of kids ski gear. You will hear about one of the most magical experiences we all had together that one of the 4 year grandkids described in his amazement as being in a snow globe, and that was a pretty accurate description. We all loved this holiday so much – that we are already planning when we can do it again. For me it was especially amazing – being with all the people I love the most in the world, having the best time together. I will keep these memories in my heart forever. Now I’m getting teary. Stay listening to the end when we tell you what some of the highlights were for the kids – and of course our favourite place for mulled wine – and there were so many to choose from. So please enjoy – episode 75 To see all the pictures, links to places mentioned and the map to see where everything is located then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/75/queenstownfamily To see all our New Zealand episodes then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/newzealand To find our more about my guest host and read her about easy family adventures then click here www.easyfamilyadventures.com
Sun, October 15, 2023
74. Best New Zealand Ski Fields. Best places to Ski and Snowboard in Queenstown, New Zealand
Have you ever wanted to travel to the spectacularly beautiful South Island of New Zealand, - if not, why not? This is the first episode in our New Zealand podcast series, and I can guarantee if this part of New Zealand wasn’t on your travel list – it will be after this and the next few episodes. Today we are taking you to one the most stunning places in the world. This week join us as we travel to Queenstown and to the main ski resorts that surround this gorgeous city. Now, I know you might not be into skiing or snowboarding yourself, however, we share the best resorts for non-skiers, brand new skiers, intermediate and advanced. We had all the above with us on this trip from one year olds to grandparents and if you don’t want to ski you can to watch the action from the comfort of the heated café areas. There are four main ski areas that we tell you about, Coronet Peak – The Remarkables, Tremble Cone and Cardrona. Some of these areas are better for different levels and we share all those details with you. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Beach Travel Wine podcast episode without some funny stories – and in this one you will hear about how we nearly called it quits before we started. And Lyle’s most embarrassing moment at the top of a blue run (that’s advanced level skiing) There is whole lot more to this part of New Zealand than skiing and we give some insights to those as well. Stay listening to the end to hear what is now the most popular reason people travel to Queenstown – and it has nothing to do with snow or mountains. Please enjoy episode 74 all about Queenstown, New Zealand. Find the show notes, pictures, links to places mentioned and map here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/74/skiqueenstown Visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, October 08, 2023
73. Highlights of Italy. 26 cities in eight weeks. We share the top things to do on an Italian adventure. 20 podcast episodes condensed into one show with all the best things to do in Italy.
Get ready for an unforgettable journey through Italy in our latest episode where we condense 20 of our podcast episodes into one epic highlight show. We'll be taking you on an 8-week adventure through the enchanting landscapes, food experiences, tours and history of 26 cities including Venice, Trieste, Milan, Lake Como, Cinque Terre, Florence, Tuscany, Rome, Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento, and Amalfi. Discover the must-see sights, hidden gems, and exciting activities that made our trip truly unforgettable. We'll spill the beans on our top tour recommendations, share some offbeat and fun experiences, and let you in on the hottest bars we stumbled upon in Florence and Rome. But wait, there's more! We'll even reveal our favorite destinations and even one surprising disappointment that caught us off guard. Stick around until the end for our tips on money, packing smartly, navigating the Italian train system, and uncovering affordable local tours that won't break the bank. So sit back, relax or continue doing whatever you are doing and enjoy episode 73. If you know anyone planning their own Italian adventure then please send them here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy
Sun, October 01, 2023
72. Amalfi and Positano. Travel along the Amalfi Coast to visit Positano and Amalfi, Italy.
We start today’s episode driving along the crazy well known Amalfi Coast road to our last location, the city of Amalfi. In this week's episode we are finishing up our 8 day tour from Rome to Amalfi with Intrepid Travel. We were blown away with this city and you will be too when you hear all about it. The town, the beaches, the history and one of our favourite things – the spectacular waterfall hike into the mountains above the city walking through lemon groves, exploring ancient ruins on the side of a crystal clear river and past many waterfalls and then stopped for a cold drink at the most authentic Italian restaurant up in the hills. Our accommodation was a locally owned hotel in the best position in Amalfi – which is one of the things Intrepid Travel pride themselves on and we tell you about the piazza where we were staying, the incredible duomo which dominates the city, the pretty streets full of funky shops and the little hidden places and restaurants we enjoyed – thanks to our local guide Luca. We couldn’t miss a ferry ride to glamorous city of Positano – and it is as spectacular as you could imagine. Then, omg, we tell you about the craziest day – Saint Andreas day – that started with a rude awakening from cannon fire and very loud bell ringing from the church outside our room that went on for over 10 minutes before 6am and then finishing at midnight with a very unique religious parade and procession that culminated with a fascinating tradition which involved a massive silver statue, men running up 62 stairs all because of pirates. Oh and also listen to how much trouble we got into trying to make our way through the jam-packed plaza while this was going on, only three of us made it through. Stay listening to the end to hear our final thoughts and fond memories of this Intrepid Travel tour – but not just ours, I spoke to the others on the tour and we tell you about what they thought, their recommendations and of course everyone’s favourite place for a glass of wine throughout our trip together. Please enjoy our last instalment of our tour from Rome to Amalfi. Click here to see the show notes, photos and interactive map with links to all the places we mention and the tour we did www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/72/amalfi or click here to access our Italian podcast collection www.beachtravelwine.com/italy or www.beachtravelwine.com for our website.
Sun, September 24, 2023
71. Sorrento and Isle of Capri. Travel to Sorrento and visit the Isle of Capri on the Amalfi Coast, Italy.
As promised today we are taking you to one of – if not the most spectacular places in Italy. Sorrento and the Isle of Capri. We are on days 4 and 5 of our small group tour from Rome to Amalfi with Intrepid Travel. We are loving the tour, especially the relaxing nature of this trip – no early starts, no rushing, and time to explore on your own, if you want to. In this episode we will take you walking through the gorgeous streets of Sorrento, through the piazzas and bustling shopping areas full of cafes, bars and restaurants. Next we go to the most atmospheric, beautiful restaurant, dining under the twinkling lights in the lemon trees of a citrus orchard. One of our favourite days in Italy was taking a private boat to the Isle of Capri. Luca our guide arranged this for us – as it was an optional excursion – and it was magical. The sparkling blue water, jumping off the boat to swim in the Mediterranean, the views at the top of the Isle of Capri, and then singing and enjoying our trip all the way home. To finish our perfect day we did a gelato making class – which turned out to be so much fun. We tell you all about the most popular and best gelato in all of Sorrento and the family who have been making it for generations. Stay listening to the end to hear one of my funniest jokes – Lyle made me tell it – oh and I even sing a few bars of the song that will always remind of the fond memories of this tour, especially Sorrento and the Capri boat trip, plus the wonderful friends we made. If you would like to see all the pictures of this stunning part of Italy, or find out more about the Intrepid Travel tour we are doing – then you definitely should take a look at the show notes by clicking here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/71/sorrento You can see all our Italian podcast episodes here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com So please enjoy episode 71
Sun, September 17, 2023
70. Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. Travel to the 2,000 Year old Ancient City of Pompeii and Climb Mount Vesuvius.
Want to know what it is like to walk the ancient time capsule streets of Pompeii and hike the rim of the active volcano Mount Vesuvius? Then this episode is for you. Most people when they think about Pompeii think about an eruption that covered a city centuries ago that you can now visit and see bodies where they actually died. Well, that is all true – but omg visiting Pompeii – the modern and ancient cities and climbing the rim of the volcano involves so much more and we tell you all about it in this episode which is day three of our Rome to Amalfi tour with Intrepid travel. From the sleek, upmarket modern city where we watched the sunset behind Mount Vesuvius from a rooftop bar sipping cocktails, to exploring the time capsule that is ancient Pompeii. We share all the things we were blown away with – the ancient city is exactly as it was 2000 years ago. – can you imagine that? We take you inside their houses with all the decorations and artwork intact and it is as vibrant today as it was 2000 years ago. It’s incredible. We walk the cobblestone streets lined with restaurants with their kitchens and mosaic benches, and ovens in their original condition. We wander through where the bustling market once was and past the forum area which was the heart of the city. You will discover with us the arena, the roman baths, the theatres, shops, factories, the whole city. Make sure you stay listening if you want to hear about thing that surprised us all the most – so all I’m going to say it is pretty graphic and definitely not for the easily shocked. Of course, a visit to Pompeii wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Fugitives – or the bodies. We tell you exactly what happened to these people so many years ago. Day four we head off to ascend the summit of Mount Vesuvius and hike around the rim. You will definitely want to hear all about the eruption of 2000 years ago and some subsequent eruptions and what this active volcano looks like today and what they are doing to make sure there isn’t another catastrophe around the corner. Of course you can see all the pictures and links, including an accurate animation of the eruption, that accompany this episode by clicking here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/70/pompeii You can see all the podcasts in our Italian series here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy of visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com Please enjoy episode 70 all about Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.
Sun, September 10, 2023
69. Naples, Italy. Travel from Rome to Naples and explore the Spanish Quarter and highlights of Naples.
As promised this week, we are doing something Intrepid. Actually, this week’s episode is the first part of a 7 day tour we did from Rome to Amalfi with Intrepid Travel. We start today in Rome – visiting the Roman Baths before we meet the other members of our tour and our Italian guide – Luca to get all the info on our tour and have our first dinner together. Next morning, we take the fast train from Rome to Naples. Naples was a real eye opener – and we tell you all about the edgy Spanish Quarter with all its decorations and street art which is everywhere. Then we talk about the most famous Napoli football player of all time who is everywhere you turn in Naples and why the whole city was covered in blue and white decorations – literally! We walk through the streets, visit the stunning veiled Christ statue, and it was incredible. Next we visit the massive 23,000 square metre plaza, walk along the Bay of Naples to the famous castle that is supposedly held up by an egg. Next, we have lunch and eat the famous Neapolitan pizza. We tell you about the unique toilet paper for sale around the old city area and we finish in a gorgeous little outdoor bar right in the heart of the Spanish quarter. Lastly, we take you to the metro station, so far underground I thought we would never reach the bottom before we board another train on our way to our next destination – that is for next week’s episode. If you would like to see all the photos from this episode, and the interactive map with all the places we mention on it then go to the episode description on the player you are now listening on and click on the link to Episode 69. So, for now please enjoy Episode 69 all about Rome to Naples. To see the show notes, photos and interactive map with this episode click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/69/naples To see all our other Italian podcasts click here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, September 03, 2023
68. Rome at Night. Travel to Rome, Italy.
Come with us on a moonlight walk around Rome. We start this episode on a walking tour we did starting in the beautiful Piazza Navona with its spectacular three fountains. We tell you what the plaza used to be used for – but not for long as the locals from centuries ago didn’t think it was “manly” enough. Next we wander the streets and pass by the incredible Pantheon with its dome that is the biggest unsupported dome in the world and has 16 imposing columns that are the entrance to the now catholic church. Of course we go to the Trevi Fountain – which by day is special, but at night – just wow. I throw some coins in the fountain, and we tell you about the coin throwing myths and exactly how much money they collect from the fountain each day – and it’s certainly an eye watering amount of money! I also tell you and Lyle (cos he didn’t know) that there is a social media craze that people are doing as an alternative to coin tossing. Next on our night tour of Rome is Piazza Venezia which is a huge chaotic roundabout surrounded by historical buildings. One of the major ones is an unpopular enormous building that the locals don’t like and have given it a couple of nicknames – Mussolini’s typewriter is one and the other is the wedding cake. You’ll have to click on the link in this episode description in the player you are listening on now to see the pictures in the show notes and see what you think. Of course, it’s a short walk from the piazza to the Colosseum past Trajan’s column and the Roman forum which are all lit up and are just glowing in the night. Wandering around the colosseum at night time is a memory that you will never forget. We take you to some other special night time spots including the Spanish Steps and Piazza Spagna and tell you all about the Italian fashion parade that you see walking the streets every night. Boy those Italians have some nice outfits! Lastly, you will come with us to our favourite little hidden bar right in the heart of Rome – The Highlander. It has so much atmosphere – something happening every night and you can watch any sport that is on live TV and they have some of the friendliest bar staff you will ever meet. And it would be fabulous if you could give us a follow or subscribe on the player you are listening on right now. It means you won’t miss an upcoming episode and really helps the podcast get discovered by more people. So thank you for that. You can find the show notes, pictures, links and interactive map to this episode here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/68/rome You can find all our Italian episodes at https://www.beachtravelwine.com/italy Visit our website at <a href="https://www.beachtravelwine.com/" target="_blank" rel="
Sun, August 27, 2023
67. Highlights of Rome. Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. Walk the streets of Rome, Italy and explore all the highlights including the Borghese Gardens.
In today’s episode you will be coming along with us as we share one of our favourite things to do in a new city. We do this everywhere we go – and today’s the day you do it with us. So ,what is it – well we like to walk out our front door and say – “which way – right or left” and then just go and see what we find. We went left and walked along Via Corso – the main road that used to be a horse racing track. Listen as we come across the gigantic piazza Popolo with it’s the three basilicas, an Egyptian obelisk, three fountains and the impressive original city gates. From there we take you up a marble staircase that leads up to the highest point in Rome – the Pincian Hill which has amazing views of the city. Apparently Rome has 1,000 churches and you can see a lot of the domes from this vantage point. Of course, that wasn’t all there was on this hill. Come with us as we wander around the stunning, enormous Borghese gardens – you know I love gardens – You will hear about the lakes with islands in the middle that you can row around to see the temples. Hear about all the galleries with more stunning centuries old art and then Lyle tells you about the original water clock – yep water clock. From there we will take you down the most stunning street in Rome – just like a movie set – Via Vittoria Veneto all the way down to the famous fountain – no not the Trevi Fountain yet, but a fountain designed by Bernini of Tritan spurting a jet of water into the air through a shell and being held up by four dolphins in Piazza Barberini. Next on our journey was another amazing Piazza – Quirinale which is the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic. Of course, our day wouldn't be complete if we didn’t visit the Trevi Fountain – and it was as beautiful as you can imagine. 26 metres high and 49 metres wide. Stay listening to the end to hear about the last place we went on our walking loop around Rome – which in involves Spain, France and Tom Cruise. Make sure you subscribe or follow us on the podcast player you are listening on now so you are first to know when our next Italian episode is published. You can find the show notes with all the pictures, links and interactive map here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/67/rome The rest of our Italian podcasts are here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy or find everything else at www.beachtravelwine.com Please enjoy episode 67.
Sun, August 20, 2023
66. Rome, Italy. Travel to Rome, Italy. Discover the history of Ancient Rome at the Colosseum the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Welcome to ancient Rome. In this episode you will be walking the along the historic streets of the Roman Forum which was the heart and soul of the Roman Empire from 800 BC to 400 AD. You will hear about all the temples, basilicas and emperors of Rome in that time. We take you down the main boulevard of the Forum where the emperors would parade with their spoils of far away victories, which always included gold, plants and many exotic animals that no-one had ever seen before. We tell you all about the most famous leader of all – Caeser – his life and how he died. Palatine Hill overlooks the forum area and this is where the emperors built their palaces. Listen as we take you up the 7 levels of the Imperial ramp with its 35 metre high ceilings to the top of Palatine Hill. We share the views from the top and also the remains of the palaces and their private grounds, including a swimming pool and private arena. Walk with us as we leave the Forum past Titus’s arch and enter one of the most well-known historic buildings in the world – the Colosseum. We were able to visit the arena floor which is where all the action happened and get a great insight into the tunnels, cells and trapdoors (spoiler alert - there were 88 of them). Listen as we transport you to those ancient times when the Colosseum was at capacity with 50,000 screaming spectators enjoying the “entertainment” of the day. You will want to stay listening to the end to find out exactly what that entertainment was – you might not call it entertainment and also what the crowds had barbecued for lunch. And no, it wasn’t another shrimp on the barbie. Don’t forget if you want to see all the pictures and find the link to the tour we did in this episode then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/66/rome If you know anyone planning trip to Italy then please share our Italy podcasts with them at www.beachtravelwine.com/italy Please enjoy episode 66 all about Ancient Rome. Find us at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, August 13, 2023
65. Vatican City, Travel to The Vatican, Vatican City, Rome, Italy
I don’t like to admit it, but I knew virtually nothing about the Vatican except it is where the pope lives and it’s the smallest country in the world. I didn’t even know if The Vatican and Vatican City were the same thing, but after our time there, boy did I learn some stuff – and we are going to share that with you today. Firstly, we tell you the best way to see the Vatican museums and St Peters and give you a couple of hints how to miss the crowds. Then we take you through the most spectacular rooms, galleries and courtyards full of history and artwork. But it’s not all painting and sculptures. Come with us as we walk through the 250m long tapestry room where the eyes in the tapestries follow you as you walk along. Next is the map room where there are centuries old maps painted on the walls underneath a gold ceiling. The rotunda room has a gigantic ancient Egyptian purple marble bathtub, which is valued at 2 billion euros! If that isn’t enough marble, then listen as we tell you about the marble zoo – yep I said marble zoo – where the animals actually look like they have fur – because of the colours inside of the marble – they were beautiful. Of course, we take you inside the Sistine Chapel to hear about the famous Michelangelo paintings, plus we give you some funny stories of how all that came to be – you won’t believe it. Then if that isn’t enough stunning art and history, we walk through the massive St Peters square with the incredible colonnades and then we share the opulence of the inside of the basilica – just think domes, gold, stunning, mind blowing and you might get close to what it is like. Listen to the end to hear about which pope is embalmed in a glass coffin that you can see while in the basilica. I know you will want to see all the pictures that accompany this episode – so click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/65/vatican There is a lot to take in in this episode – but we know you will be blown away – so please enjoy Episode 65. Oh, by the way if you know anyone planning a trip to Italy then please share our Italian series with them at www.beachtravelwine.com/italy You find all our other podcasts at www.beachtravelwine.com If you are looking for a travel blog to inspire and help you plan your holiday then this is one of my go to's click here www.totraveltoo.com
Sun, August 06, 2023
64. Florence, Tuscany, Italy. Travel to Florence Italy (Pt 3). Visit the top hidden gems of Florence and find out about Italy's most dangerous sport.
This is our third and final podcast about the beautiful city of Florence and we might have just saved the best til last. But first, Just to answer a question I have received many times about our arrival in Florence in episode 62 – no I still don’t know why the guy said he was a sniper and what he was actually trying to say – if you don’t know what I’m talking about – then go back and listen to the beginning of Episode 62 and you will understand – still one of the funniest things that happened to us in Florence. Ok, back to episode 64 where we are taking you to my favourite palace in Florence – the Pitti Place (I know, the name doesn’t do it justice) as well as the beautiful Boboli Gardens which are a green oasis in the middle of the city. Our guide Carmella showed us the most amazing galleries and living quarters of the palace. There was a quirky artwork including butterflies and dwarfs plus the most paintings by Raphael any where in the world. In fact all the Ninja turtles are represented at the Palace. We learnt so much about the art and artists (obviously as I am still calling them ninja turtles) and the beauty in this palace was stunning. Come with us as we walk around the 11 acres of the Boboli gardens. Some of the best views of the city are from the top of the gardens. We are quite intrigued by some of the grottos which look like lumps of plaster thrown against cave walls, but then you realise they are actually animals. Weird but fascinating. Next we go to a museum and unusual type of art gallery that only the locals seem to know about. and it was incredible. It involves rare semi precious stones and it is a technique that is only practiced in Florence. Stay listening to the end to hear about the sport – if you can call it that – called Calcio Storico. We tell you about this game which is a combination of rugby, martial arts, boxing, wrestling, and American football, just to name a few. It basically seems like a big brawl on the sand field involving 27 players on each side trying to score the most points. It actually dates back centuries and even some Popes played it in the Vatican city. It’s a game unique to Florence and it’s only played once a year in the annual tournament in June and involves 4 teams from the four classic neighbourhoods and the locals love it. Make sure to check out the show notes and pictures from this episode by clicking the link to Episode 64 below www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/64/florence3 If you know anyone planning a trip to Italy please send them to the www.beachtravelwine.com/italy You can find all our travel podcasts and blogs or contact us at <a href="https://www.beachtravelwine.com/" target="_blank" rel="n
Sun, July 30, 2023
63. Florence, Italy. Travel to Florence, (Pt 2) visit the Galleria Academia, The Uffizi Gallery, Piazzale Michelangelo and do a Tuscan food and wine tour.
Have you wondered what is like to travel to the beautiful city of Florence and stand in front of some of the most famous art works in the world? Well we share what that is like as we visit Michelangelo’s David, see Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and dozen more famous pieces. To say we were impressed is a massive understatement. After visiting all the famous galleries we embark on a fantastic wine and food tour where our very passionate guide shares the secret of the dark side of Florence and takes us on a taste sensation tour of the Florence and Tuscan region through local authentic restaurants. We also go to a place to drink wine that is totally unique and can only be found in Florence. I was so excited. We tell you where you can find the best panoramic views of the city – and the best time to go there and how we ended up back in front of the Duomo late at night watching a football match between my English premier league team and Firenze football club. This episode covers it all – food, wine, art, nature, football, history, food and wine – you get the idea. So please enjoy episode 63 – part two of our Florence series. You can find the show notes with pictures, maps and tour information and links here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/63/florence2 Oh and don’t forget if you know someone planning a trip to Italy – then please share our Italian series with them by sending them to www.beachtravelwine.com/italy Find all our other podcasts from around the world here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast
Sun, July 23, 2023
62. Florence. Travel to Florence, Italy. Top things to do in Florence including the Duomo, Porto Vecchio and Piazza Signoria.
This is our first episode about Florence – and we didn’t think we were going to survive to tell you any of our Florence stories. I know that sounds dramatic, but at the time it was real - and it was all to do with the weirdest google translation from our air bnb host as we were locked in a dark entry way with him outside our apartment. The whole story is in the podcast. Now, Florence or Firenze as it is known in Italy is definitely one of my favourite cities. It is beautiful. There is so much to see and do, all packed into such small area. This is the first of a three podcasts about Florence. We couldn’t fit everything into one or two episodes and do it justice. In this episode you will come with us as we walk along the Arno River and check the Porte Vecchio – which is the famous old Roman bridge with all the gold and jewellery shops. Next, without any plan really, we find Piazza Signoria where the replica of Michelangelo’s famous David is as well as the Palacio Vecchio, Neptune’s fountain and heaps other famous sculptures. But by far the most amazing thing we saw in our first few days was when we turned a corner and there was the Florence Duomo – the cathedral. Wow. I know I’ve said that before – many times – but this building is so incredible it just halts you in your tracks. Next we visit the central food markets, the leather market stall area, walk around the glamorous shopping area, find San Lorenzo’s Basilica where Donatello’s last works are, and finish at a dingy little bar – that became our local favourite. Show notes, maps, pictures and links are here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/62/florence1 You can find all our Italian podcasts, photos, blogs and maps here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy You can contact us and see all our podcasts and blogs at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, July 16, 2023
61. Cinque Terre, Italy. Travel to all five villages of Cinque Terre, Italy. Top things to do in Cinque Terre, Italy.
In today’s instalment of our Italian series - We are talking all about the popular and beautiful part of Italy called Cinque Terre, which means 5 lands. Cinque Terre is on the Mediterranean Sea and includes the five villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. We knew that you could walk between the villages or take the train, but we really didn’t understand how that all worked – so we were determined to find out all the information and share it with you. We stayed in the biggest and most northern village of Monterosso, and we share why you should too. We visit all the other villages and tell you about each one, what to see and how they are different. We use the train to explore some of the villages and we also hike between two of them. We are blown away with the views – I mean, we knew they would be incredible, but nothing can prepare you for what you will see, or how tired your legs will be after your hike! Lastly, we take a ferry ride to see all the villages from the ocean – and wow, what incredible views you have. The ferry is another way to visit each village and takes you to a town south of Cinque Terre called Porto Venere. Stay listening to the end to find out some of the surprising things about the beaches in Cinque Terre and of course our favourite place to have a wine – or in Lyle’s case – a watermelon slushie. – now that’s a turn up for the books. Haha To see all the pictures, maps, links and show notes for this Episode click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/61/cinqueterre Remember if you know anyone who has been to Italy or planning a trip – please share our Italian podcast series with them at www.beachtravelwine.com/italy We have people reaching out telling us how much they enjoy the podcasts because they are bringing back some special memories for them. We hope you enjoy episode 61 all about Cinque Terre. Find us at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, July 09, 2023
60. Tuscany, Italy. A magical stay at Castello Vicchiomaggio, Greve, Chianti, Tuscany, Italy.
Have you ever wanted to visit the wine region of Tuscany in Italy or be under the Tuscan sun? Well keep listening as we transport you to the stunning Tuscan hills and believe me it was stunning. We spent 2 days in a Castle on top of a hill in Tuscany and it was every bit as idyllic as you can imagine. Listen to hear all about the Castle we stayed in, how we were gobsmacked with our room. Actually not just our room – everything about this place was spectacular. We describe the views, the gardens, the vineyards and my favourite the infinity pool. Wow it was amazing. We tell you about the wine tour we did which included a tour of the vineyard, the wine cellar with all the barrels under the castle and then to top it off a five course banquet dinner with accompanying wines in the beautiful restaurant at the castle. Make sure you click on the link to the show notes below to see all the pictures of the castle, the hills, the views and the infinity pool. www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/60/tuscany There is also a link to the Castello Vicchiomaggio where we stayed and a map showing exactly where it is located. And don’t forget if you know someone planning a trip to Italy – then please share our Italian podcasts and blogs with them. At www.beachtravelwine.com/italy You can see all our podcasts or blogs or contact us at www.beachtravelwine.com Enjoy Episode 60 all about Tuscany.
Mon, July 03, 2023
59. Como, Lake Como, Italy. Exploring all around Como and Lake Como, Italy. Top things to do in Como and Lake Como, Italy
We are continuing our Italian series with this Episode 59 all about the famous and bucket list city in Italy, Como on the beautiful shore of Lake Como. Hear about our amazing accommodation. Everything about it was fabulous, the views, the room, the shower, the bed, the breakfast, the staff – it just had one small problem that was an issue for us and we tell you all about it. Come with us as we wander around the city of Como around the lake and what happened as we lined up to get on the Funicular (remember, I don’t like heights at all). I didn’t know if I should be happy or sad. We share the most beautiful restaurants on the lake to have lunch – or hire a beach chair and umbrella and have a swim. Listen as we tell you about how chaotic the ferry system is and how we found a way to enjoy the lake and the most stunning and exquisite place away from all the crowds and you probably haven’t even heard of it. Next we explore the old city area and piazzas of Como itself and tell you what happened to completely embarrass me while sitting at a lovely restaurant right in front of the huge Cathedral. Listen to the end to hear about another ferry ride on Lake Como to a small village where we did a live broadcast and the fancy restaurant that we were hoping to have lunch in, but ended up with sandwiches and beer. Make sure you click the link to see all the pictures – you really won’t want to miss them. One of my friends who has been following our travels for years said that they are the best and most beautiful he has seen – so check them out. www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/59/como And if you know someone planning a trip to Italy, please share our podcast series all about Italy by sharing the link to our Italy page on our website at www.beachtravelwine.com/italy If you would like to see all our other podcasts, pictures and blog posts then go to our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Mon, June 26, 2023
58. Lake Como, Italy to Lake Lugano, Switzerland and Bellagio, Italy.
In this episode we are taking you on a day trip from Como on Lake Como, to Lugano, Switzerland on Lake Lugano. We tell you about the crazy, anxiety inducing bus trip to get to Switzerland, plus one of the craziest things we have ever seen on a road. Lake Lugano was utterly gorgeous and I share our walk around the lake to the beach area where I made Lyle see if the water was cold. Lyle is pretty proud of himself as he shares a very interesting fact he found about Lugano. Next, we go back into Italy and catch a ferry on the narrowest part of Lake Como to Bellagio. We share why this is everyone’s favourite place on Lake Como and how we managed to snag a great spot for lunch right on the lake, even with all the crowds and we give you a tip as to how you can do this too. Lastly, we take a ferry ride all the way from Bellagio, zigzagging our way slowly back to Como. We tell you all about the towns we stop at and of course some of the famous villas we see on the way. Keep listening to the end to find out which is the fancy hotel, close to Bellagio that the rich and famous stay at, and how much the Russian Oligarch’s villa is on the market for. Make sure to click on the link below so you can see the pictures and link to the day trip that accompany this episode. Trust me you will want to see beautiful Lake Lugano and our stunning lunch spot in Bellagio. www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/58/lugano And if you know someone planning a trip to Italy please share our podcast series all about Italy by sharing the link to our Italy page on our website at www.beachtravelwine.com/italy Want to know what other countries and cities we have podcasts and pictures on then check out our website www.beachtravelwine.com
Mon, June 19, 2023
57. Milan, Italy. Top things to do in a weekend in Milan, Italy.
Welcome to episode 57 all about Milan, Italy. And I have to say that Milan was a really nice surprise even though we weren’t supposed to be going there. Unfortunately, we had to change plans due to flooding in Italy and we tell you all about what happened. With our weekend in Milan, we were determined to get out and explore as much as possible. Listen to hear why trying to find the Duomo started out as a very frustrating problem and the simple fix that had us in front the stunning cathedral in under 10 minutes. We also share all about the spectacular Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and the oldest café where we had breakfast. We went early to avoid the crowds and it was a great decision. Listen as we were surprised and delighted to discover the canals in Milan - complete with gondolas. We explored the canal area before we found a massive castle. Come with us as we walk through the castle with its moat, towers and seven metre thick walls, to the extensive gardens and ponds that has its own Arc De Triumph replica – called the Arc of Peace. Stay listening to the end as we walk around the outside of an ancient arena and eventually find a way to see what was actually inside – we were so surprised. Oh, and also hear about what the arena was used for centuries ago – trust me - you won’t be able to guess. Hope you enjoy episode 57 all about Milan and don’t forget to click on the link below for the show notes where you can see all the photos of the places we talk about when we visited Milan. You can find the show notes and pictures for this episode here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/57/milan or all our Italian podcast episodes here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy of visit our website here www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, June 11, 2023
56. Lake Garda and Sirmione, Italy. Take a boat tour of Italy's largest lake - Lake Garda- and walk the medieval streets of the stunning village of Sirmione, Italy.
I’M EXCITED TO SHARE THIS EPISODE 56 WITH YOU. THIS WAS A DAY TRIP WE DID FROM VERONA AND IS ONE OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR ITALIAN TRIP SO FAR. Today’s episode is all about Italy’s largest lake – Lake Garda and the gorgeous little village of Sirmione. We tell all about the famous wine they make in this region – which is now our favourite. Listen as we take you on a fancy boat cruise on the lake past ancient ruins, snow-capped mountains, medieval villages and fancy hotels. Sirmione is famous for its thermal hot springs and we tell you some of the healing properties of the springs and which hotels and resorts you can visit if you want to enjoy the thermal baths. We wander the cobblestone streets, past a 15th century castle with its stunning moat to the most famous spot for photos – the kissing point. We tell all about the stunning beaches and views and gorgeous restaurants in the village. Listen to the end where we talk about some unusual shops we saw (well I saw them, Lyle wasn’t too impressed) and where we found the massive lemons that were the size of footballs. Hope you enjoy being transported to the stunning Lake Garda and Sirmione in Episode 56. You can see all the show notes and pictures that go with this podcast here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/ https://www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/56/lakegarda or see all our Italian podcasts, show notes and pictures here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy or visit our website here www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, June 04, 2023
55. Verona, Italy. Top things to do in Verona Italy. Visit the Verona Arena, Juliette's balcony, Castelvecchio, Castel San Pietro and ancient plazas.
Ciao and welcome to Episode 55 where we are telling you all about historic river city of Verona. Now you might know Verona for a famous Balcony from a Shakespeare play or the Verona Arena which is older than the Colosseum. We do tell you about those, but first we will give you the grand tour – as we explore all around the old city from Castle Vechio and its famous bridge, across the raging Adige river and up the funicular to Castel San Pietro for the most incredible views of the whole city. Lyle is blown away with some art all about Dante in the Castel – who knew he was such an art connoisseur? Of course, we have drinks with a view before finding our way back down the hill to the incredible Duomo. The artwork in this church is incredible. Come with us as we wander the famous Piazza Erbe and Piazza Bra and find a fabulous bar where the locals were lining up to get in – luckily we were there early and snagged a great table. Listen to the end to hear about the live concert inside the Verona arena we bought tickets to and the famous singer we saw (here’s a hint – they call him Italy’s Tom Jones) and what happened after we left the arena. Enjoy episode 55 all about Verona, Italy. You can see all the show notes, links and pictures from the episode here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/55/verona All our Italian podcasts and pictures here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Mon, May 29, 2023
54. Trieste, Italy. A very unique city on the Italian Riviera. Visit Trieste's fairytale castle and stunning architecture.
You are in for a real treat in this Episode. We are still in northern Italy, but this episode we are taking you to a city that isn’t as popular as some of the others -and I can’t understand why, and you won’t either after listening to this episode. Trieste is a gorgeous city on the Italian Riviera and it offers so much to visitors. This week we will tell you all about the unique history which is linked to Austria. We take you up to the highest point of the city and then walk back down to the main plaza which is one of the biggest and impressive in Europe. We wander along the marina and find a very nice rooftop bar. Then we take you to Trieste’s jewel of the crown and national treasure the Miramare Castle. Listen as we were totally gobsmacked at the interior and then even more so with the gardens. It was absolutely amazing. Listen to the end as we take you walking along the waterfront and find some cafes and bars on the Italian Riviera and also in this episode we share a lovely review we received from a listener who tells us how we helped him plan his holiday. Oh, and I have a bit of a rant about a cancelled tour – which left me very disappointed. Trust me – this episode will have you wishing you were on the Italian Riviera in Trieste – and will definitely have you adding it to your bucket list. See all the show notes with links and pictures here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/54/trieste See all our Italian episodes here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy or visit our website here www.beachtravelwine.com
Mon, May 22, 2023
53. Venice, Italy. Travel to Venice Italy and explore St. Mark's Basilica, The Doge's Palace and hear all about Casanova and the Secret Police.
This week we are back in Venice. Today’s episode is all about the big guns – St Marks Square the incredible St Marks Basilica and the Doges Palace as well as some real surprises. These buildings are absolutely incredible with amazing history, artwork and some fascinating stories. We tell you all about the secret police and their secret mailboxes all over Venice as well as the secret doors and tunnels in the Palace. Lots of secret squirrel business that went on, including how the most famous prisoner held in the palace (Casanova) escaped in the middle of the night. Listen to the end to hear the dreadful thing that happened to the four bronze horses that sit atop of the Basilica in the main square. Oh, and also something else that involves horses – that you won’t believe and will make you go “that’s disgusting” (here’s a hint – blonde hair and ammonia) Enjoy episode 53 all about the fascinating and sometimes gross history of Venice. You can see the show notes and all the pictures here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/53/venice Or visit our website here www.beachtravelwine.com
Mon, May 15, 2023
52. Venice, Italy. Travel to Venice, Italy. Explore the cobblestone streets. Marvel at St. Mark's square and take a gondola ride through Venice's enchanting canals.
Welcome to Episode 52 and the beginning of a whole series of podcasts all about Italy. For our first episode we are in the magical city of Venice. This was my first trip to Venice and I was so excited to visit. We begin with our water taxi ride across the lagoon into the Grand Canal to our accommodation at the Foscari Palace. We stroll through the cobblestone streets, crossing over many bridges with canals full of gondolas into St Mark's Square. Then we take you on a gondola ride through the canals, under bridges and past many stunning ancient buildings. It was just as incredible as I thought it would be and was one of those pinch me moments that will stay in my memory for ever. Lastly, we share a food and wine tour that we did visiting four very unique wine and cicchetti bars that only the locals know about. Stay listening to the end to hear how much it costs to buy a gondola and our favourite places to enjoy a glass of vino in the beautiful city of Venice. See all the shownotes with links and pictures here. www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/52/venice Visit our website www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, May 07, 2023
51. Italy Travel Plans and Our First Year Podcast Milestones.
Hello and welcome to episode 51 of our podcast. In this episode we are having a bit of a show and tell. We have hit some incredible numbers with our podcast and wanted to take the time to share with you and also reflect on our first full 12 months of podcasting. We tell you our downloads stats, the countries that listen in and the most popular and least popular episodes. We also share how our process has changed from our first episode in Paris up to now, as we are planning for our next series which we have coming up. As this episode is published (May 2023) we are off to Italy and will be doing lots of episodes as we go – in our usuall style of fun, informative and of course sharing the best places to enjoy a glass of wine in each city. Listen to the end where we tell you our itinerary and the very exciting reason we changed our plans from going to Milan and are now having a weekend in Bologna (think fast cars). Also listen to find out how you can help us with our travel plans in Italy - and also, we give you 11 ways – yep that's 11 – that you can show support and help us grow the podcast – and none of them involve money. Oh, and if you want to receive a digital postcard each week from Italy – then I will tell you how to do that as well. The show notes for this episode are here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/51/italyplans You can visit our website here www.beachtravelwine.com Sign up to receive a digital postcard from each city we visit in Italy here www.beachtravelwine.com/email Enjoy this wrap up episode and get excited for our Italian series. Arrivederci until next week.
Sun, April 30, 2023
50. Bangalow, in the Byron Shire, Northern NSW, Australia. A perfect weekend escape.
Hello there, today is an unusual episode because I have left Lyle at home and have a special guest host. I wonder who that could be?? Today my guest host and I will be sharing all about a “girl's” weekend the two of us had in the hinterland of the Byron Shire in the cute little village of Bangalow. Ok ok, I'll tell you who the guest host is - it is Mikaela from Easy Family Adventures who is actually my beautiful daughter – Miki. We try and have a mother-daughter weekend once a year together, but it has been a little difficult the last couple years. We chose Bangalow for our weekend for quite a few reasons – which we share in the podcast and I’m sure you will agree it was a great decision. We went on adventures into national parks, on very narrow windy roads to the top of a 100m gorge and waterfall. We explored the local village and many of the cafes, bars and restaurants and the famous Bangalow markets. It is a stunning part of NSW and only 15 minutes from the famous Byron Bay – so there is a lot to share. Stay listening to the end to hear where you can find out all about Mikaela’s Easy Family Adventures and also hear her advice about the best places to go in the area if you have kids. Oh, and also, find out who or what is Saint Kevin and why we got a bit over seeing Saint Kevin several times a day. I hope you enjoy this episode all about our fun girl’s weekend – sorry Lyle – I’ll let you back on the next episode. Visit Easy Family Adventures website www.moderndaymamas.com/easy-family-adventures Go to show notes and pictures here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/50/bangalow Visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, April 23, 2023
49. Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australia. The final part of our road trip doing the Lap of Tasmania where we visit the Historic Convict Site of Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australia.
This is the final part of our road trip doing the lap of Tasmania. Wow what a trip it was! In this episode we tell you all about the most visited tourist attraction in Tasmania – the Port Arthur historic convict site. This was one of the harshest convict penal colonies in all of Australia. We take you all around this world heritage site. We go through the buildings that housed all the prisoners, the asylum, the guard towers and the commandant’s house that overlooks the whole site and the town with its gardens, houses and churches that are all part of the site. We share the lovely and very convenient place where we stayed and how we came to have the biggest oysters of the whole trip – thanks Lyle. You will hear just how indulgent I was at the lavender farm with its 16,000 lavender plants – I think I must have consumed at least a whole plant myself. We tell you how nervous we were (or I was) on our way to a gin distillery as the trees got taller and road became narrower. Finally, we share one of Australia’s darkest days that happened on 28th April 1996 and the emotional memorial that remembers the 34 people who lost their lives that day. Stay listening to the end to hear our wrap up of our road trip and what we loved most and of course our favourite places in all of Tassie to have a glass of wine. Thanks for listening and please enjoy the final part of our road trip doing the Lap of Tasmania. You can see the show notes and all the pictures that are part of this episode here: www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/49/portarthur Or visit our website at: www.beachtravelwine.com All our Tasmanian episodes, information and pictures can be found here: www.beachtravelwine.com/tasmania
Sun, April 16, 2023
48. Bay of Fires and Binalong Bay to Wine Glass Bay in Freycinet National Park. Part 4 of our road trip doing the lap of Tasmania, Australia.
Would you like to know about the place on Tasmania’s east coast that the Lonely Planet calls one of the world's hottest destinations? Well keep listening and all will be revealed. But first we start in St Helens on Georges Bay which is the game fishing capital of Tasmania and where we had one of the best meals, with the best views we have ever had. Then we take you with us to the famous Lonely Planet location of Binalong Bay and The Bay of Fires. We describe just how spectacular this area is with its white powder sand, beautiful blue water and fire orange rocks and boulders. Lyle shares just how those boulders get their colour. After St Helens we drive to Bicheno which is best known for its penguins, fish and chips and of course the blow hole. We tell you about some of the amazing wineries you can visit in this area, and one of our all time favourites. And finally, we share the most spectacular views of the Great Oyster Bay and the world famous Wine Glass Bay in the Freycinet National Park. We tell you about the hikes you can do and the superb luxury accommodation nestled in the trees, right on the edge of Great Oyster bay. Listen to the end where you hear what a stupid mistake we made at Freycinet Lodge and the pretty graphic reason Wine Glass bay got its name. Enjoy Episode 48 as we continue our lap of Tasmania. You can see the show notes and all the pictures here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/48/bayoffirestofreycinet or go to our website here www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, April 09, 2023
47. Launceston and the Tamar Valley Wine Region of Tasmania - Part 3 of our road trip doing the Lap of Tasmania, Australia.
We are still road tripping around Tasmania and you guys are listening in record numbers – so thank you. This week’s episode is a fun one as we take you on our trip to Launceston via Penguin, Deloraine, then on to the Tamar Valley Wine Region (yum Tasmanian wines!!). Our first stop for brekkie was at the cute little town of Penguin – and we tell you why it’s called that. Then we drive on to one of the prettiest towns in Tasmania – if not Australia – Deloraine on the Meander River. It should be in movies – just gorgeous. Finally, we reach our overnight accommodation in the city of Launceston. We take you to the most popular tourist attraction in town – the spectacular Cataract Gorge. We also walk through the city park which we were really surprised to see an animal enclosure full of cheeky cute little – not telling – you will just have to listen. Here’s a hint though – they were a gift from Japan. Then we travel on to the small town of Grindewald, which is a replica of a Swiss village with the same name full of Swiss chalets and pristine gardens. We stay in a tiny hotel room – my fault when booking- but it was cheap and the facilities were amazing like an indoor heated pool and putt putt golf – which I kicked Lyle’s butt in. Then we go on a full day wine tour all around Tamar Valley. It is such a beautiful area of Tasmania and the wineries were fabulous. We visit Marion’s Vineyard on the side of a hill with views to die for, Goaty Hill Wines (which is now Small Wonders organic wines) with the most amazing platters and picnic areas, Holm Oak vineyard with its huge pigs and lastly Swinging Gate with it’s cute mascot – Nellie the dog. Listen to the end to hear where our favourite place to have a wine was and about the really cool Mixed Dozen program that allows you to buy a couple of wines at each participating vineyard and have them all sent home together – what a great idea! And your holiday can continue when you arrive home – perfect. Please enjoy Episode 47 which is part 3 of our road trip around Tasmania. You can see all the pictures, links and show notes that go with this episode at https://www.beachtravelwine.com/47/launcestontotamarvalley Or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, April 02, 2023
46. Cradle Mountain National Park to Stanley. Part 2 of our road trip doing the lap of Tasmania, Australia
In this episode we are continuing our road trip doing the Lap of Tasmania . We start off by discovering Tasmania’s highest waterfall , and we tell you about the unique way to reach the bottom of the falls. Our lunch spot was one of those places that you can only discover on a road trip . Lake Rosebery at Tullah was idyllic. Finally, we found our way to our accommodation in the world famous Cradle Mountain national park. If there is one place that people have heard of in Tassie – it is Cradle Mountain. It is almost too beautiful to describe with its snow covered mountain peaks, ancient rainforests, glacial lakes and abundance of unique Australian Wildlife – it is breathtaking. We share which walks and hikes to do, how best to explore the national park, where to stay and the best way to see those adorable Aussie animals. In fact, I share my favourite Aussie animal , and how excited I was to see some and a very, very interesting fact about these little furry creatures, that I guarantee you have not heard before! Lastly, we head north to Stanley and the famous "Nut " – which is very unusual looking large rock formation that can be seen for miles. We take you up the nut, tell you how it was formed, and wander around the top to see the best views of Bass Straight and the beaches of Stanley. One of our favourite things about Stanley was the seafood – and no wonder as all the local restaurants source the freshest local catches straight of the boats each day – just think, lobsters, crayfish, scallops and oysters – yum! We share the best places to experience the local seafood and where to stay when visiting Stanley. We hope you enjoy episode 46 which is Part 2 of our Tasmanian road trip. You can see the show notes/ blog and pictures here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/46/cradlemountaintostanley Or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, March 26, 2023
45. Lap of Tasmania from Hobart to Lake St. Clair to Strahan on the West Coast of Tasmania. Australia.
IN THIS EPISODE WE ARE TAKING OFF ON THE FIRST PART OF OUR LAP OF TASSIE. For those of you who don’t know me, I don’t like driving much especially on windy roads, I certainly don’t like getting lost and I am not keen on navigating somewhere I haven’t been before – so what could go wrong? Oh, and also, we won’t be using the “C” word on this road trip – camping – nope, no tents or campervans to be found. We start off in Hobart and drive through New Norfolk where we first encounter a large group of motorcycle riders. Not like your stereotypical “bikie gang” more like the John Travolta Wild Hogs vibe. We continue on our windy road to the beautiful Lake St Clair, but not before we tell you about the incredible 100m x 3m wooden sculpture that you can’t take pictures of and how we came across one of those Wild Hogs who had come off his bike. Lake St Clair wilderness area and national park is spectacular, the lake is the deepest lake in the wilderness in Australia and is surrounded by walks and hikes of all levels and terrains. We share the ones we did and also where you can access the “60 great short walks of Tasmania” We splurged a bit on our accommodation, and we tell you why we were pretty disappointed with it and also how I ended up on top of an anthill the morning we left. We cover the next part of the journey to Strahan on the wild west coast. We stop on the way at one of our favourite little spots in Tassie – Nelson falls. It is just so pretty. Then we arrive in Strahan, and just love this quaint little place which is the gateway to the Franklin Gordon River National Park. We take you on a sunset cruise to Hells Gates, the convict settlement of Sarah Island and the amazing Gordon River National Park as the sun is setting. I save a very special and interesting fact about Strahan (that even Lyle didn’t know) to the end of the episode – so stay listening to hear that – you won’t be disappointed. So please enjoy the first instalment of our Lap of Tasmania. You can see the show notes here www.beachtravelwine.com/45/lakestclairtostrahan Or visit out website here www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, March 19, 2023
44. Hobart. Travel to the capital of Tasmania, Hobart. The best things to see and do in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.
In this episode 44, we are excited to be taking you to the capital of Tasmania – Hobart. Lyle and I have visited Hobart separately and now together and we just love this city. It’s one of those cities, that the more you go, the more you discover and the more you love it. It is such a clash of history, modern art, nature, sporting events, food, wine and so much more. We start our episode with a crazy fire alarm problem at the airport before heading to the spectacular little-known village of Opossum Bay. Well, I guess the secret will be out after this podcast. We then head to Hobart where we cross the famous Derwent River to the cities historic waterfront area. There we share all about the most visited tourism attraction in Tasmania – the Salamanca markets. This is also where the world famous Sydney to Hobart yacht race finishes. You can’t visit Hobart without a trip to the top of Mount Wellington. We try and describe just how incredible the views are from the Pinnacle at 1271 metres. Obviously, we will tell you about some of the wineries within 30 minutes of Hobart and the oldest operating brewery in Australia – the Cascade Brewery. Hobart has one of the most beautiful and diverse botanic gardens in Australia – and I tell you the best things to see when you visit. Of course, we share where to eat, where to stay and lots of fun and interesting facts about Tasmania – like it has this cleanest air in the world. Stick around to the end though – if you’re not easily shocked – to hear about the fabulous, weird, whacky, fascinating MONA – a privately owned art museum by an eccentric millionnaire that has as one of its most popular exhibitions a poo making machine and a wall of over 150 different plaster casts of ……… a certain female body part. Enjoy this interesting and diverse city in this podcast all about Hobart. You can find the show notes and all the pictures here. www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/44/hobart Or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, March 12, 2023
43. Mexico. Travel from the Gulf of Mexico, to Chichen Itza one of the Seven Wonders of the World, then to Cancun on the Mexican Carribean.
In this final episode of our Tripadeal Best of Mexico tour we are taking you on a real adventure. We start in the city of Campeche on the Gulf of Mexico. It is the only walled city in Mexico. Then we go the UNESCO World heritage archaeological site of Uxmal. We tell you all about the legend of the witch and the dwarf. I tell you about Lyle’s brave attempt at a downing a massive tequila shot before arriving at the capital of the Yucatan peninsular – Merida. We tell you all about this wealthy city and what we saw there before heading on to the bus again for our final day of bus travel. It’s like we have kept the best for last. We visit one of the seven wonders of the World Chichen Itza and then take a surprise visit to a cenote where we float in the clear waters many metres below land. Finally, we end up the tourist area of Cancun for a peaceful couple of days – although Lyle had a bit of an experience on a short bus trip that he shares with you. Stay listening to the end to hear how you can download the PDF document we put together covering all the nitty gritty bits and pieces you need to know – and I wish I had known, before doing this tour, or travelling to Mexico. You won’t want to miss it. Enjoy our last instalment of our trip through Mexico in Episode 43. You can see the show notes here where you can download the free PDF tips on Mexico document www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/43/3mexico or visit our website here www.beachtravelwine.com
Tue, March 07, 2023
42. Mexico. Travel from Tehuantepec through Chiapas across Mexico to Campeche on the Gulf of Mexico
We are now well into our Tripadeal Best of Mexico Tour. We have settled into the routine of the journey. We start this week’s episode from where we left off in Episode 41, travelling to Chiapas and the Grand Canyon of Mexico – the Sumidero Canyon. We take you on a two hour boat ride where we see crocodiles, spider monkeys and 1000 metre high cliff faces. Next we explore the cobblestone streets of San Cristobal de las Casas and enjoy the contrast of the old with the modern. After a free day we have a very early start to take us – and you - to one of the most spectacular places we have ever seen – the beautiful Agua Azul waterfalls. The water is so incredibly blue and we were able to climb to the top and have a refreshing swim. This made everyone very happy. After a very windy bus trip we arrive late afternoon at our hotel, where we all go straight to the pool area and order cocktails. We tell you all about our early “Wake up call” – not something you hear in Australia. Listen to the end as we take you to our favourite archaeological site so far. We tell you why it’s our favourite, what famous TV documentary show was being filmed while we were there and why I expected to run into Indiana Jones at any minute. It’s certainly an amazing few days crossing the middle of Mexico and finishing up seeing the sunset on the Gulf of Mexico. So please Enjoy Episode 42. You can see all the show notes and pictures here www.beachtravelwine.com/42/2mexico or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Tue, February 28, 2023
41. Mexico. First Week Travelling through Mexico from Mexico City to Tehuantepec.
In this episode we are in the middle of travelling around Mexico. We start in Mexico city – the capital of Mexico. We take you for a walking tour all around Mexico City including the Zocalo and to the most visited museum in Mexico – the anthropology museum with its 1000’s of artifacts. We tell you all about one of our favourite cities Peubla. It is so quaint and interesting. We also take you up a very steep hill to a spectacular basilica that is one of the nicest we have seen anywhere. Come with us as we walk through Puebla and tell you just how pretty it is. Next, we travel to Oaxaca city known for its food and culture, where we try the famous mole and enjoy the fabulous town square. We visit at Monte Alban – which was a fabulous way to spend my birthday. From Oaxaca we drive to Tehuantepec via, another ancient site and a stop at a mezcal brewery. Stick around to the end to hear one of the things we did that we both weren’t at all interested in and it turned out to be one of the most interesting things we have done so far. Also, at the end we give you a quick summary of the “tour” ins and outs so far. So, enjoy our first week travelling through Mexico. Click here to see our show notes and all the pictures www.beachtravelwine.com/41/week1mexico or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, February 19, 2023
40. Mexico. 17 Day Best of Mexico Tour. (What it is really like to do an organised tour of Mexico)
We are doing something different in this episode. We are taking you behind the scenes and telling you all about our decisions and planning on deciding to do a Tripadeal 17 day Best of Mexico tour. This is our first ever organised tour (normally we do all the research and planning ourselves) and we are going to record an audio journal every day and put together a podcast series on what it is REALLY like to do this tour, not just the fun stuff, but everything. From basics like transport and accommodation and how much things cost - to the nitty gritty of what’s included and what we do every day and also what we think about each place. In this episode we share: Why we are doing this Tripadeal tour. (Tripadeal is an Australian online travel agency) How much the trip costs and how much we are taking to spend. Where we are going on our Best of Mexico 17 day tour and what we are going to see. What we have learnt about Mexico so far in our pre- trip research - (ok, that involves travel shows on Netflix lol) How we plan to do a podcast journal each day. And also – where I will be spending my birthday in Mexico. Feliz cumpleaños. Listen to the end to hear how you can be one of the first to receive all the juicy details before the journal type podcast episodes are published each week. We hope you will come along for the ride (literally haha) on our Tripadeal (no paid promotion) 17 day Best of Mexico Tour. Click here for show notes, pictures and links about the tour www.beachtravelwine.com/40/mexico Or visit our website here www.beachtravelwine.com Join our email list for all the updates of our trip here w ww.beachtravelwine.com/email
Sun, February 12, 2023
39. Noosa. Travel to the Noosa Shire on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. The top things to see and do in Noosa, Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia.
Travel with us to the paradise that is the Noosa Shire. We visit the famous Noosa main beach and the most beautiful headland walk in the world in Noosa National Park. We wander down the famous main street - Hastings Street - and give you an overview of the glamorous shops, restaurants and bars along the way. There are many great restaurants to tempt you in Noosa and we share some of our favourites, including the Noosa Surf club. Noosa accommodation is varied, and we have a couple of favourites, plus we give you some other great options. Noosaville is another popular spot we visit along the Noosa River as well as the Noosa Marina. We take a day trip to Habitat Noosa which is a nature lovers delight. You start at Lake Cootharaba and take a leisurely boat ride through one of only two everglades in the world. The Noosa Everglades is so beautiful, relaxing and quiet and you can definitely capture some amazing photos in the reflective waters. After the cruise you can try one of their special artesian craft beers in the restaurant and outdoor dining area. Next, we visit the Eumundi Markets with over 600 stalls and then enjoy another craft beer at the Imperial Hotel across the road. Listen to the end to hear all about a bonus audio we have done with this episode and also the main reason we love Noosa so much and visit regularly, and I'm positive you won't guess what that is. You can go to show notes here to access the bonus audio www.beachtravelwine.com/39/noosa (hint - it's about Lyle and a world famous event that is held every year in Noosa) Access show notes here . www.beachtravelwine.com/39/noosa Or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, February 05, 2023
38. Brisbane. Travel to Brisbane, the capital of Queensland for a weekend getaway. Discover the perfect place to stay in Brisbane to access all the restaurants, entertainment and sporting events.
In this episode we take you to Brisbane – the capital city of Queensland. It is fondly known as the River city. We have been to Brisbane many times for many different reasons and events and we are positive that we have discovered the best place to stay and we share where it is and all the things that make it so good. Here’s a hint - Location location location. If you are interested in river walks, live music, international or local sporting events, musicals, great restaurants, rock climbing, comedy shows, stunning parklands or anything in between then this podcast is for you. Keep listening to the end to hear what is being constructed in our favourite part of Brisbane and why we describe it as “the icing on the cake”. So Please enjoy episode 38 all about Brisbane and the perfect place for a weekend away in the River City. Click here to see all the show notes and pictures www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/38/brisbane or visit our website www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, January 29, 2023
37. Darwin. Travel to Darwin, Kakadu NP and Litchfield NP, Northern Territory, Australia. Top things to do in Darwin and day trips in Northern Territory, Australia
This week we are in Crocodile Dundee country in the top end of Australia. We are travelling to Darwin the capital of the Northern Territory. We spent a week exploring the area including Kakadu National Park which is so big it would cover half of Switzerland. But first you will get a laugh (like I did) as Lyle describes how terrified he was when he met the 6.1 metre (that's over 18 feet) crocodile known as Dominator in the crocodile infested waters of Adelaide River and how a horse size(well almost horse size) lizard stopped us in our tracks. We tell you all about Litchfield national park which is home to some spectacular waterfalls and unique waterholes where you can swim – if you are brave enough. And tell you about the gigantic termite mounds that make the landscape look like you are on another planet. We also describe the best places to eat in Darwin, the Darwin waterfront and harbour, the famous markets, and the best places to see one of Darwin’s world famous sunsets. Stick around to the end to hear about the real reason we were in Darwin, I’ll bet you can't guess and learn how I was totally blown away by where I found my favourite wine of all time. Lastly we give a big shout out to some listeners who told us where they are enjoying happy hour. See all the show notes and photos from this episode here. www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/37/darwin Or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, January 22, 2023
36. The Great Barrier Reef - Sleeping under the stars on the world famous Reef World Pontoon on Hardy Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland.
In this week’s episode we take you to the one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. The Great Barrier Reef. Listen as we take you 78 kilometres off shore with Cruise Whitsundays from Airlie Beach through the Whitsunday Islands to the Reef World pontoon and Reef Sleep on Hardy Reef. We tell you all about the how incredible the snorkelling is, the fish and coral you will see as well as how you can scuba dive – even if you have never done it before, just like I did and what an absolute buzz it was. Took me hours to come back to reality, But for the main attraction of this podcast we were privileged to spend a night sleeping under the stars in a reef bed on the world famous reef sleep, not once but twice and we tell you everything you need to know about it – and yes there is some great food and wine involved. We also take you for a sneak peak into one of the glamorous underwater Reef suites. Stick around to the end to hear our very coincidental happy hour shout out this week and also how we viewed the most famous reef of all from the air. Click here to see all the pictures ad places we talke about in this episode. www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/36/greatbarrierreef or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com send us an email at leanne@beachtravelwine.com
Sun, January 15, 2023
35. Margaret River Wine Region. Travel to Margaret River Wine Region in Western Australia.
So excited to be taking you to the stunning Margaret River Wine Region in Western Australia, but even if you don’t like wine, this area has something for everyone and did I mention it is absolutely stunning? We have travelled to many wine regions, but this one is unique. It has a natural landscape and beauty like no other. The wild rugged beaches with pure white sand, the stunning wild flowers growing everywhere and the vast fields of vineyards. To top it off the food and wine in this region is to die for. No really – it is incredible. We tell you all about a few of our favourite wineries, resturants and wine tasting venues including some of the grand old original winery estates as well as new favourites we only just discovered. Stayed tuned to the end to hear about how we had to hunt down the best ever – and I’m not exaggerating – chocolate liqueur in the world. It is so good that we bought the whole family the full set of 4 flavours for Christmas presents! (your’e welcome kids) Plus we give a shout out to one of our podcast listeners who shared where they were enjoying happy hour this week. Hope you enjoy, and don’t get too hungry while listening to this special food and wine episode. You can see the blog post and pictures from the episode here. Visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com Would you like a shout out on our next podcast? then send us an email and let us know where you have been listening from and enjoying a wine this week. Email us at leanne@beachtravelwine.com or click here
Sun, January 08, 2023
34. Gold Coast. Travel to the Gold Coast and hear the top things to do at the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.
In this episode we transport you to the heart of Australia’s glitter strip – the Gold Coast in Queensland with it’s golden sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife and word-class attractions. We are lucky that the Gold Coast is right in our own backyard and we have visited many times. You will hear about a few of our favourite restaurants and some fantastic new ones that we discovered. We tell you a funny story about how we saved $140 on one of our restaurant bills. Listen as we share the best beaches, walks and some great spots for a night out, including the famous Dracula’s caberet show. We give you some great accommodation options and the best way to get around – which involves leaving your car behind. Our last trip we were there for the Gold Coast 500 which is an annual motor racing event held in the streets of Surfers Paradise. We are not usually big car racing fans – but we were there for a special reason, so listen to the end to hear Lyle boast all about it! You can see the accompanying blog and all the pictures that go with this episode here. You can visit our website here www.beachtravelwine.com Would you like a shout out on our next podcast? then send us an email and let us know where you have been listening from and enjoying a wine this week. Email us at leanne@beachtravelwine.com or click here Hear are the links to places mentioned in our podcast. Harri Jones Racing Driver https://www.harrijones.com.au/ Pacific Fair shopping center: https://www.pacificfair.com.au/ Kurrawa surf club: https://www.kurrawasurf.com.au/ Kokomo cruises: https://www.kokomocruises.com.au/ The Langham: https://www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/gold-coast/ The G:link: https://ridetheg.com.au/ Gold Coast Tourism: https://www.visitgoldcoast.com/ Dracula’s Caberet https://www.draculas.com.au/gold-coast/
Sun, December 25, 2022
33. The good, the bad and the hilarious of our first year podcasting. Beach Travel Wine Podcast Year in Review (and what's coming up next - we are switching it up a bit).
In this episode we recap the podcasting journey so far. We have published over 30 podcasts and have kept a consistent publishing schedule of weekly episodes. This hasn't always been easy with travelling, visiting family from one side of Australia to the other and dealing with aging parents going into care. We talk about how we started, the most basic equipment we used and still use today and what we have planned for our next lot of episodes. Listen to the end to hear about how Leanne mixed up her words while working on a nude cruise - yep - nude cruise. You can see all our episodes here. Or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, December 18, 2022
32. Interview episode on Journey with Jake podcast
This is a special interview episode we did with Jake Bushman from Journey with Jake podcast. Jake likes to find out all about the special moments that make amazing memories - or as he says “it’s not about the destination, but the journey”. Journey with Jake is about travel and our individual experiences with travel. The idea behind his podcast is to take each of us to different places through the eyes of ordinary people. He shares stories and experiences that will hopefully inspire you as you travel! We tell Jake all about one of our most amazing nights while we were in Spain - and it’s a memory that will stay with us for a lifetime. It involves our wedding anniversary, a deserted rooftop bar and an Ed Sheeran song. It was a great chat and Jake covered topics that we haven’t discussed before. He was such a great interviewer and the episode is a great one to listen too. Jake has more great travel podcasts at Journey with Jake and you should definitely check him out. To see all our episodes go to our podcast page at www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast or to see all our blog posts, show notes and pictures that go with our episodes www/beachtravelwine.com/leannes-blog You can find out all about us at our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, December 11, 2022
31. Cadiz. Top things to do in Cadiz, Spain. Travel to Cadiz in Andalusia, Spain.
In this Episode we take you travelling to the oldest continuously inhabited city on the Iberian Peninsular. Cadiz is a small city in Andalusia in southern Spain on a peninsular surrounded on 3 sides by the sea and it could just be the perfect destination for you. We spent a lot of time exploring Cadiz– including the beaches, castles, cathedrals, crypts, history, architecture, food, parks, promenades – did I say food? The only thing it doesn’t have is many tourists. We take you walking all around the stunning promenade which stretches along the beach where we discover plazas, statues, waters features, waterfalls and, believe it or not, dinosaurs. We tell you about the fascinating history of the port city which was invaded many times and it is where Christopher Columbus set sail on two of his exploration voyages. Listen along as we explore the Cadiz Cathedral. We go up one of the two 130ft towers and and down into the domed crypt with 5 alcoves. You will also learn how and why there are 133 watch towers all around the old town. We finally discover the central markets with fresh produce, including a seafood market and the best place to eat while you are in Cadiz. Finally, listen as we tell you all you need to know about visiting and enjoying Cadiz and surrounding areas and stick around to the end to hear which sexy star emerged from the beach in a famous scene from a James Bond movie. You can read all the show notes and see the pictures here. Or visit our website for all our podcasts and blogs at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, December 04, 2022
30. Interview Episode. Interview with James Hammond from Winging Travel Podcast. We talk all things slow travel, travel in Spain, scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, jumping crocodiles and more
Cheers and welcome to this special episode of the Beach Travel Wine Podcast. This week we share the interview we did with James Hammond of the Winging It travel podcast. We had so much fun, as you will hear. It is a longer podcast than usual, but time just flies by because it is full of fun and laughter and great stories and travel insights. We start off with a bit of banter about some sporting teams in Australia – always a topic between the English and Aussies. Then we chat about how we slow travel and our favourite places and things to do in Spain from the 50 cities and villages we have visited. James is originally from the UK but lived and worked in Australia and we chat about some of the scariest and funny things that have happened on our travels around our home country. Listen to the end to hear which country we think is so overrated - James was shocked. So please enjoy this interview episode with Winging it Travel. James' podcast can be found here at https://jameshammond.org/wingingitpodcast/ You find all our podcast episodes and blog posts at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, November 27, 2022
29. Barcelona. Top things to do in Barcelona. Travel to Barcelona, Spain.
In this episode we take you to one of the most popular and visited cities in Spain - Barcelona. Travel to Barcelona with us and we take you walking down the 1.2km tree-lined La Rambla with all its restaurants, cafes, stalls, street performers and bars. We take you inside the famous markets, to Plaza Real and down to the 60 metre high Christopher Columbus Statue. One of the best ways to get around to see all of Barcelona is on the hop on, hop off buses and we share the best ones, how much they are and where to catch them. The Gothic Quarter of Barcelona is a full of narrow cobblestone streets with lots of Roman ruins, authentic bars and old synagogues and churches. We tell you about a sangria that nearly made someone gag! The beaches are well known and loved in Barcelona and we share the most popular one in this episode. Next we go to the Maritime museum with a full sized 16th century galley inside. You couldn't do a podcast about Barcelona and not mention Antonio Guadi. We tell you all about the world famous Sagrada Familia, Guell Park and the controversial Casa Mila. Of course lastly we share you received the "Koala Award" in Barcelona and where our favourite places to have a glass of wine (or in this case mojito) in Barcelona. You see can the show notes and pictures here. Or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, November 20, 2022
28. Almunecar. Top things to do in Almunecar, Andalusia, Spain. Travel with us to Almunecar Spain.
Travel to Almunecar on the Costa Tropical in Spain in episode 28. Almunecar in Andalusia, has so much to see and do for such a small, lesser-known city on Spain’s southern coast. Listen as we take you to a karaoke bar - can you guess who performed? Then we go dancing in the streets - or at least one of us does. We describe where the most stunning sunset we have seen in Spain was. You will hear all about the different beaches and the promenade which goes all along the coastline. We share the discoveries that we were delighted to make including the Salting Factory, the Caves of the Seven Palaces, San Miguel Castle and the Botanic Gardens. The old town of Almunecar isn’t a large one, and we tell you all about the pedestrian-free cobblestone streets that we explored. You will find out why some of the locals don’t like the 5m x 3m octopus roundabout in the main part of town. Once again you will hear the best places to eat and our favourite places to have wine (or mojito in this case). We share a story of what brought Leanne to tears on the kitchen floor of our apartment and who received the 2 koala awards in Almunecar. Lots more to hear about in Episode 28. You can see the show notes, information and pictures that go with this episode. Or you can visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, November 13, 2022
27. Almeria. Top things to do in Almeria, Spain. Travel with us to Almeria.
Travel to Almeria in this podcast. You will hear the top things to do in Almeria, Andalusia, Spain. Listen as we take you through the old town of Almeria, along the stunning promenade to the beach area of Almeria. We walk through the lush parks with stunning water features all along the waterfront. The Alcazaba of Almeria is covers 25,000 sqm overlooking the city. We take you through this walled fortress and castle. Next on our travels to Almeria we tell you about the exciting and noisy procession of La Virgin del Mar which takes places every year. Almeria is well known for its free and delicious tapas, and we share the best places to eat, and how much it costs. We also share a story about the most expensive thing we ordered at a restaurant in Almeria - a bottle of water. Listen to find our how that happened. Finally we tell you about some fabulous day trips you can take from Almeria. We visit Cabo de Gata which is a stunning natural park area. We tell you all about the Flamingos that can be seen there. Another popular day trip from Almeria is into the desert area where they film many famous Hollywood Cowboy movies. We had one of our most memorable nights ever - it was a very romantic wedding anniversary - in Almeria on a deserted roof top bar and finally we tell you where our favourite place to have a glass of wine (or in Lyle’s case a sangria) in Almeria. You can see all the pictures and show notes here . or you can visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, November 06, 2022
26. San Sebastian. Top things to do in San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain.
Travel to San Sebastian in the Basque Country of Spain with us. This is Lyle’s favourite (or one of) Spanish cities - San Sebastian. We first take you on the scenic five hour train trip from Barcelona. The first thing we saw was the stunning Maria Cristina Bridge that is modelled on the Alexander III bridge in Paris. After we find our apartment we head to the famous surfing beach called Zuriolla Beach, to a surf competition in progress. Listen as we take you up a very steep funicular from Ondaretta Beach to an old casino where the rich and famous used to visit. It is now luxury accommodation. Also on top of this mountain we take you on a very scary roller coaster ride. Of course we share the stunning views of La Concha beach and Isla Santa Clara while walking along what is known as the most beautiful urban beach in Europe. We climb up the top of Mount Urgull where there is a castle with a museum, a fort and a 12 metre (40 foot) statue of Jesus Christ. You can hear how we wandered around the old town and how Lyle nearly bought some “bumless” pants. Next we explore the old town of San Sebastian where the houses still have the numbers from the boxes from the old bullring. The old town in San Sebastian has the highest concentration of bars in the world. We wander through the streets drooling over the pintxos on display. We describe how you eat and pay for pintxos and which are the most popular ones. You will hear how San Sebastian has the highest concentration of Michelin Starred restaurants per square metre in the world. The locals say that San Sebastian is the food capital of the planet. Lyle then tells you the fascinating story of how Michelin Stars came into existence - and it is a great story - and probably not what you think. Lastly we tell you some of the other things San Sebastian is famous for and why some of the Hollywood A-listers love visiting in September - to attend the San Sebastian International Film Festival. Of course we finish with our favourite places to have a glass of wine in San Sebastian. You can read the show notes and see all the pictures here. Or visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, October 30, 2022
25. Gibraltar. Top things to do in Gibraltar.
In this episode we take you all around Gibraltar. Lyle tells you about the history including this pretty fascinating fact - there are 55km of tunnels under the rock that can fit 16,000 people! Listen as we have to walk across an actual airport runway to enter Gibraltar from Spain. We take you to the iconic Rock Hotel which is where all the movies stars and famous people stay - and that now includes us. We talk about the pool and bar area and the Scottish friends we made there. We wander around the town and marina area and enjoy some wine and food at some of the restaurants there. Next we tell you all about the best way to see the Rock of Gibraltar. You can walk, catch a cable car or take a tour. You can hear about our tour which includes St Michael's Caves - which were a real surprise. Also hear about the cheeky Barbary monkeys and how one jumped into our small bus and landed on Leanne's lap. You can see all the information and pictures from Gibraltar here www.beachtravelwine.com/leannes-blog/25/gibraltar Or visit our website for heaps more travel podcasts, blogs and pictures at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, October 23, 2022
24. Marbella, Spain. Top things to do in Marbella Spain and day trip to Ronda Spain.
In this episode you can hear all about the glamorous resort city of Marbella and the playground of the rich and famous Puerto Banus. We take you around the prettiest Old Town in Spain, through the famous Plaza de los Neranjos and tell you a story about a frustrated influencer. We walk the 7km along the beach from Marbella to Puerto Banus and tell you about the lush parks and avenues with giant Salvador Dali sculptures. Listen as we take you on a day trip to a lookout in the Sierra Blanca with some friends. You will hear how we almost were stuck in our car, before we finally made it to our lunch destination in an old castle. Lastly, but by no means least, we share with you an amazing day trip to the iconic Ronda. Leanne tells you about the bus ride - which she did not like at all. Next Lyle gives the history and facts about Ronda and the world famous Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) before he descends nearly 100 metres down a tiny staircase from the royal gardens to the bottom of the gorge. So much great information and stories all about these gorgeous cities and iconic villages in Spain. You can see all the show notes and pictures here. Or visit our website here www.beachtravelwine.com
Mon, October 17, 2022
23. Cordoba. The best things to do in Cordoba, Spain. We visit the world famous Mezquita of Cordoba and the Alcazar of Cordoba. We tell you all about the famous Festival of the Patios of Cordoba
In this week's episode we tell you about Cordoba, Spain. Cordoba has the most world heritage sites in the WORLD. That's pretty impressive and we take you to visit them. Firstly we take you across the amazing Roman Bridge before we go into the Mesquita. The Mesquita is so beautiful and stunning that you just have to listen to find out all about it ( or see our show notes link) . After the Mesquita we take you inside the Alcazar de Los Reyes and the its 55,000 square garden. If that isn't enough garden for you - we then tell you all about another of Cordoba's main attractions which is the Cordoba Patios. This is one of the most popular things to see in Cordoba in the first two weeks of May. Listen to what the fuss is all about. One of Lyle's favourite things in the whole of Spain was our visit to the Royal Stables horse show. Together we describe the most amazing show which also includes the symphony orchestra. You will definitely hear why Cordoba should be on everyone's list of places to see in Spain. See show notes and pics here. Visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, October 09, 2022
22. Amateur Traveller Podcast interview with Chris Christensen. Today we are interviewed on the longest running travel podcast, Amateur Traveller where we talk to Chris all about Asturias in Spain.
Today we are so excited to be interviewed on the 17 year old Travel Podcast - Amateur Traveller . We talk to the host Chris Christensen all about Asturias, Spain. You can find out more on our website at www.beachtravelwine.com
Mon, October 03, 2022
21. Alicante. Top things to do in Alicante, Costa Blanca Spain and the best day trips from Alicante, Costa Blanca, Spain.
In this episode we take you to the fun city of Alicante. It is usually described in two words - beaches and bars. It has a whole lot more than that to offer. Listen as we take you to the most popular beach area with views of the Castle. We then take you up a lift inside the mountain to one of Spain’s largest medieval fortresses - Santa Barbara Castle. We then take you along the prettiest promenade in Spain (in our opinion) and tell you all about the markets that are there at night. We take you to an fairy wonderland street in the Old Town called “Mushroom Street” and then to the most unique and fascinating museum that is all about the most famous festival in Alicante called Les Fogueres de San Juan - Bonfire Museum. We take a day trip to the famous Tabarca Island that used to be a pirate refuge. Next we go on another day trip to the prettiest white hillside village in all of Spain - Altea. Listen as we tell you why it is called the Santorini of Spain. Check out our show notes and pictures here. Go to our website at www.beachtravelwine.com for heaps more information.
Sun, September 25, 2022
20. Valencia. The top things to do in Valencia. What to do in 3 days in Valencia, Spain.
The Top things to do in Valencia. Valencia is Spain's 3rd largest city and it is the biggest container port in Spain. *Firstly we take you to the beautifully decorated train station which is next to the bullring. *We take you inside the bull ring - even to the toilet in the bullring. *Next listen as Lyle is totally amazed at the Silk Exchange which has the most beautiful interior with 16m spiral columns. *Then it's on to a tuk tuk ride all over the city. *We go through the city gates, across the flower bridge, to the world famous Arts and Science museum before arrriving at the marina where the 2007 America's cup was held. *Then we take a day trip with some friends to the popular Port Saplaya and Beach which is known as Valencia's little Venice. *We take you on a boat ride through the Albufera Natural Park and then to El Saler Beach where Lyle is dumped in the surf - haha. *We then go to a salsa club and have a crack at dancing. *Lastly we finish our night with a drink and paella with Spanish Elvis for our entertainment. *So much fun and so much to see in Valencia and we tell you all about in this Episode. *You can see the show notes and pictures that go with this episode here or go to our website www.beachtravelwine.com
Sun, September 18, 2022
19. Tarragona. Top things to do in Tarragona, Spain.
This episode is all about the top things to do in Tarragona. Tarragona is an easy one hour trip south of Barcelona. Listen as we take you to the nicest beach close to the city. We walk around the headland and visit the port. Come with us as we stroll the Balcon de Mediterranean. Next we take you to see the markets, the stunning Castellers statue on La Rambla Nova. You can hear the fun we had in the plazas of the old town. Next listen to one of, if not THE best things we have seen in all our time in Spain. Human Towers. WOW. We tell you all about one of the only Roman Amphitheatres in the world on the ocean and the gladiator shows at night, plus the best place to see the show, with a glass of wine of course. Episode 19 is all about the best things to do for a week in Tarragona. You can see the show notes and pics here or on our website www.beachtravelwine.com
Thu, September 08, 2022
18. Highlights Show. The top 3 things we loved in each city in Spain we visited.
After travelling all over Spain for 11 weeks, and podcasting about each place, we are now sharing the highlights and our favourite things to do in each place. Instead of tl;dr (too long; didn't read) this is the tl;dl (too long; didn't listen) episode. You will hear the best parts of each place from Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain. Madrid, the Capital of Spain. Toledo, capital of Castilla la Mancha area of Spain Nerja, Costa de Sol, Andalusia, Spain Seville, Andalusia. Caceres, Extremadora, Spain Salamanca, Castile y Leon, Spain Burgos, Castile y Leon La Rioja, and Haro, the capital of La Rioja Wine Region in Spain Oviedo, Asturias, Spain fittingly (by good luck, not good management), we finish our trip at Semana Grande (Party Week) in Santander in Cantabria, Spain. We agree on some things, but have our own favourites in other places. Finally we both share our three favourite places to have a glass of wine. Hope you enjoy this best of show. You can read all about it and see the show notes here or visit our website for more travel stories at www.beachtravelwine.com
Thu, September 01, 2022
17. What does it cost to travel to Spain? How do we plan and book everything for our trip to Spain?
In this episode we tell you the exact costs of our trip to Spain. We talk about how much the accommodation was. We discuss the cheapest and most expensive places we stayed in Spain. Is it cheaper in northern or southern Spain? How much is food and drink in Spain? What was our daily costs? We also answer the questions about how we plan our trips. How do we choose which cities or villages to visit? How do we move around Spain? Is public transport cheap and reliable? How do we research and choose our accommodation and which websites do we use to help us plan and book? We answer all these questions and more in this episode. Lots of great and helpful information if you are planning a trip any time soon. Check out all the show notes and here . For more travel stories visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com You can find us on Instagram @beachtravelwine or on Facebook @ beach travel wine podcast
Wed, August 17, 2022
16. Santander - Travel to Santander, the capital of Cantabria in Northern Spain.
What to do in Santander, Spain. Santander is the capital of Cantabria in Northern Spain. It is situated on the Bay of Santander at the mouth of the Cantabrian Sea. Listen as we take you walking along the beautiful promenade which runs beside the Bay of Santander . We continue our walk around the headland to the Magdalena Peninsula where we discover an open air zoo. Hear why we were gobsmacked when we found the full size Galleons of the Mariner and La Balsa raft which has a very strong connection to our home city in Australia. Next we wander around the Palacio de Magdelena and the gardens. You won't believe the day trip we had to a little medieval village called Comillas and the Gaudi buildings that we saw. Of course we spend a day at the biggest and most beautiful beach area in Santander. Lastly, we tell you all about Semana Grande or Party week, that hasn't been held for 3 years and happened to be on the whole week we were in Santander. From music, dancing, food, drink, dj's, street performers and more. Remember you can see all the show notes and pictures that go with this episode here. For more travel stories visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com You can find us on Instagram @beachtravelwine or on Facebook @ beach travel wine podcast
Wed, August 10, 2022
15. Oviedo, Asturias, Spain. This area of Spain is so different you think you are in another country. Mountains, lakes, beach, history, music, cider - and so much more.
Oviedo is the capital of Asturias in north western Spain. In this podcast you will hear why we chose to stay in Oviedo (and why you should too). We wander the incredible old town and we explore the park that used to be a convent's apple orchard. We take an incredible, and I mean incredible, day trip to the village of Cangas de Onis, the Covadonga Lakes in the Picos de Europa National Park and then we take you to the stunning Basilica of Covadonga which looks like it is in another country. Listen as we tell you all about the local food and the tradition of pouring sidra (cider). On our last day we share the uphill hike to the 8th century churches and then listen as we enjoy a local La Tuna band (no they are not fish). Oviedo is a total surprise package and is completely different to any other part of Spain. Read the accompanying blog (show notes) and see all the pics that go with this episode here. For more travel stories visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com You can find us on Instagram @beachtravelwine or Facebook @ beach travel wine podcast
Thu, August 04, 2022
14. La Rioja - the best known wine area in Spain where there are close to 600 bodegas (wineries).
Wine, wine and wine. In this episode we explore the La Rioja wine region of Spain. We stay Haro the capital of La Rioja in an old convent and jail. Haro has 20 bodegas in the small city all around the train station. We tell you why and when this happened. We taste all sorts of wine in a couple of the famous bodegas. Then, one of our WOW days, we take a trip to Laguardia. This little medieval wine village sits on top of a hill surrounded by vineyards with the backdrop of the fabulous Cantabrian Sierra mountains. Listen as we have a wine tour in a church built in 11th century and explore the underground wine storage caves and tunnels. You c an see all the pictures and notes with this episode here. For more travel stories visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com You can find us on Instagram @beachtravelwine or Facebook @beach travel wine podcast
Wed, July 27, 2022
13 Burgos - A city full of surprises, some good, some not so good.
13. Burgos. Burgos is a city is all about the Camino de Santiago, food and wine. Well that's how we saw it anyway. Listen as we have a very unusual and stressful arrival in Burgos, which turned out to be one of my favourite times in Spain. You will here are how walked a small portion of the Camino as we discovered the old buildings of the university. We had the most fun at a tapas bar with Jose - or Pepe - as he likes to be called. Listen to why he received the Koala award and where he put it. Then we had one of Lyle's favourite days visiting the tiny village of Lerma and had a tour of a boutique winery. All the details plus heaps more in this episode. Find out more or see show notes and pictures to go with this episode here. For more travel stories visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com. You can find us on Instagram @beachtravelwine or Facebook @beachtravelwinepodcast
Wed, July 20, 2022
12. Salamanca, the Golden City of Spain.
This week's episode is all about the Golden City of Salamanca. We explain why it is called the golden city and our sheer delight at walking the historic streets. Hear how we found the ancient still working convent of San Estaban. You will hear my description of one of the most memorable moments that I've experienced in Spain. Lyle explains why the whole old part of the city is a Unesco World Heritage listed site. We take you walking along the Rio Tormes and see young men practising bullfighting. We discuss some of the food we did and definitely did not like. Lyle has a lot of interesting history to share and lastly we take a 2 hour (which turned into 5 hours) guided tour. Find out more, read accompanying blogpost and see all the pictures here. For more travel stories visit our website at www.beachtravelwine.com or find us on Instagram @beachtravelwine or Facebook @beachtravelwinepodcast
Thu, July 14, 2022
11. Caceres - A weekend in one of Spain's most authentic towns (ie no tourists!)
Caceres in Extremadura Spain is the most authentic city we have visited. Listen as we talk about our accommodation at the Parador de Caceres, an ancient palace and now a luxury hotel. Come with us as we walk through the medieval city at day and then discover it's beauty at night. Come with us on a tuk tuk ride and listen as Leanne is yelled at by an old Spanish lady. Hear all about the amazing food and the best places to eat in Caceres. Lastly we visit a couple of museums which we agree to disagree on our opinions of the War Museum. You can see all the pictures and information relating to this episode here . For more travel stories visit our website www.beachtravelwine.com or find us on Instagram and Facebook @beachtravelwine
Wed, July 06, 2022
10. Sevilla. The best places to see in 3 days in Seville, Spain.
Sevilla, so much to see. This city is one of our favourites in Spain. Listen as we are in awe as we walk around the Alcazar and gardens (where some episodes of Games of Thrones were filmed). The next day we are literally stunned into silence at the Plaza de Espana. Lastly Lyle climbs to the top of the Giralda Tower at 104m while I nearly get lost in the corridors of the cathedral. We also take you to our favourite authentic bar in Barrio de Santa Cruz as well as the rooftop bar at our accommodation. You can see all the pics and videos here. Or go to our website www.beachtravelwine.com for more travel stories. You can find us on Instagram and Facebook @beachtravelwine
Fri, July 01, 2022
9. Day trips from Nerja, Costa del Sol, Spain. Frigiliana a white village, Nerja Caves and Malaga
Come with us on three fun day trips we took from Nerja. First we went on the tourist train to the famous and spectacular Cueva de Nerja (Nerja caves). Listen to how amazed we were. Next we visit the pretty picturesque white washed hillside village of Frigiliana. Walk around the cobblestone streets and take in the stunning views with us. Lastly we take a bus into the major city of Malaga. Malaga combines ancient ruins and buildings, authentic bars and restaurants with a modern and stylish shopping scene. We wander around exploring it all. See all the pics and blog post here - www.beachtravelwine.com or instagram and Facebook @beachtravelwine
Sat, June 25, 2022
8. Nerja - the Perfect Holiday spot on Spain's Costa Del Sol
We explain why Nerja is an idealic holiday destination. You will hear where the best places to stay and the best beaches to visit. You will also learn about the incredible food scene, from the delicious free tapas to the 5 star restaurants. Perfect weather, fabulous accommodation, divine food, delicious wine, pristine beaches- Nerja has it all. You can see all of pics and show notes here or watch the videos at our Instagram or Facebook page @beachtravelwine. For more travel stories visit our website www.beachtravelwine.com
Sat, June 18, 2022
7. Toledo. An overnight stay in Toledo, Spain.
Toledo was once the capital of Spain and is known as the city of 3 cultures. We talk about the easiest way to get to Toledo and the best thing to do when you arrive. Then we take you into the famous Toledo Cathedral before exploring the winding cobblestone streets. We can't believe the amount of swords for sale. Then we are taken by surprise at a Sunday session overlooking the Tajo River. Lastly we take a morning walk thru the Jewish Quarter (trying not to get run over) before following the city walls back towards the train station. Hope you enjoy. Click here to see pictures from this episode or go to Instagram and Facebook @beachtravelwine. For more travel stories visit our website www.beachtravelwine.com
Wed, June 08, 2022
6. Four days in Madrid
Listen as we have a "interesting" welcome at our apartment. We take you walking around Madrid to Retiro Park, Museo Reina Sofia to see the world famous Picasso Guernica, through Plaza Mayor and inside a bullfighting bar. Then we take you around the Ritzy suburb of Salamanca before a night out finding authentic Spanish Tapas Bars. Lastly we walk around the Royal Palace. We have a few good laughs along the way, as Leanne tries to beat the hawkers at their own games. We talk about what food and wine we drank and how much they cost. Check out all the pictures from this episode here. More travel stories at our website www.beachtravelwine.com or @beachtravelwine on Instagram and Facebook.
Thu, June 02, 2022
5. Zaragoza could be our favourite city in Spain. It really is an authentic Spanish treasure.
We fell in love almost immediately with Zaragoza. Listen to hear why. This beautiful city has it all, plus some absolute surprises. Click here to see all the pictures from this episode. For more travel stories visit our website www.beachtravelwine.com or @beachtravelwine on Instagram and Facebook
Thu, June 02, 2022
4. The Chelsea Flower Show- walk around the beautiful show gardens, the Grand Pavillion and all the small and balcony gardens of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
Leanne takes you with her as she visits the Chelsea Flower Show. A bucket item list since she was a young girl. You will be there as she ticks this off her list and makes some new friends drinking very expensive champagne. Listen also to the end to hear about the recipient of the Inaugural Koala Award at the Flower Show 🤣 Click here to see all (and I mean heaps) of pictures of this episode. www.beachtravelwine.com/leannes-blog/4/chelseaflowershow Visit our website for more travel stories www.beachtravelwine.com or @beachtravelwine on Instagram and Facebook
Tue, May 31, 2022
3. Our nightmare trying to leave London!
Language warning! Stress levels at the max and even tears as all the forward planning and organisation for our trip from London to Spain was nearly a disaster. See more travel stories at www.beachtravelwine.com or instagram and Facebook @beachtravelwine
Sat, May 28, 2022
2. A week in London - How much can you see in a week? Lots actually.
We explore all the sites, museums, and pubs in our week in London. Read more and check out all the pictures in our podcast notes here - www.beachtravelwine.com/leannes-blog/2/london or visit www.beachtravelwine.com
Mon, May 23, 2022
1. Paris, France. Travel to Paris, France and spend Four Days in Paris
Walk the streets, view the sights and visit the cafes with us. We share what its like in post covid Paris. Four days in Paris podcast notes and pictures here www.beachtravelwine.com/leannes-blog/1/paris on our website www.beachtravelwine.com or on instagram @beachtravelwine
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