The Nostalgic Vagabond
Join me, Allan Hill (the Nostalgic Vagabond) for weekly one-hour~ish travel talks with unique and interesting travellers / adventurers who Zoom-in from all around the world. In conversation, we share compelling personal stories of trial, triumph and sometimes tribulation from journeys, exploring this world and its cultures, languages and landscapes. None of us claim to be experts, we aren't necessarily pros, we are regular people like you. But we decided to say, “YES!” Decided to step outside our comfort zone and have a go at creating our own journey, going our own way. You also don't have to be an expe...
S2 E25 · Thu, June 24, 2021
Accessible Travel
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Dr Francis Boorman. Francis is a British historian, an expert on certain 18th-century happenings in London. While not researching and writing books and papers Francis enjoys travel and exploring new and interesting places. What's a little more unique is that Francis uses his wheelchair to explore places afar and has managed to visit every continent except Australia, and Antarctica but let's not count that. Francis is an experienced traveller with a positive mindset and outlook, on the serendipity of travel and adventure, so why not get some interesting first-hand information on the accessible travel industry. In conversation, Francis reflects on some of his earliest travel memories as a kid with his family and (9:25) schoolmates. He's very candid in describing what his first international trips were like (again with his friends and family) after he became a wheelchair user (13:20) as a young adult. We talk about some of the places he's been and particular favourites (17:15) over the last 10 to 20 years. Flying with a wheelchair can make travel more complex. Francis gives a run down on what the flying experience can be like, navigating through airports and the logistics of moving seats and making sure the chair survives the journey (18:30). We talk about some travel mishaps (23:30) that although can often not be the most comfortable at the time, can end up a great anecdote. But I think one of the best things about Francis as a traveller is his attitude and mindset. His way of thinking could be adopted by every traveller, from everywhere. We get into some of the planning and the practicalities when travelling with a wheelchair (31:50) and touch on some things to think about, sites to check out, insurance issues and stuff to consider in general trip preparation. We talk about how the accessible travel industry has evolved and continues to evolve as greater investment, tech and general awareness becomes available (35:00). Things are still not quite there yet, better, but not perfect by any means. Dr Francis shares his thoughts on how he'd like to see the industry continue to improve (48:50) and has some good advice (49:30) for wheelchair users who want to travel when it's possible again, and also for their family and friends. The best thing as Francis says is to think positive, always enjoy it (it's a holiday after all) and if things do go wrong which they will from time to time, the best thing is to chill out, have a nice beer, and try again tomorrow... Enjoy. Further links:- Back Up: https://www.backuptrust.org.uk/ SIA: https://www.spinal.co.uk/ A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any c
S2 E24 · Thu, June 17, 2021
Beer Trips
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Morgane Thöni. Morgane is from France but moved to Canada a couple of years ago where she works as a brewer in a rural brewery, kind of in the middle of nowhere, like a lot of Canada one could argue. Being French, I expected Morgane to be into wines (6:20) but Morgane is very much into her beers. Perhaps spending a lot of time in Germany studying, travelling and of course, drinking has something to do with that? Morgane and I met in Liverpool about 5 years ago when she was travelling with her friend and fellow beer enthusiast Mickael. We enjoyed taking a real ale pub tour (10:30) of the city sampling many traditional and some unique beers. In conversation, Morgane shares a few places around the world, countries and specific regions, (13:30) she has visited where she found the beer and culture to be interesting. We talk about beer tourism and how beer and culture might be related. Morgane shares of some particularly interesting experiences in Norway, where they use juniper in their brewing process (19:30) which is unusual and something Morgane was intrigued by. Beer culture has exploded in the last decade or so. It's now possible to get American style IPA all over the place, craft beers and some bizarre heavy beers made with lactose and marshmallow even, banana juice mixed with wheat beers etc. Morgane tells of some of her favourite places to enjoy a beer (27:45), typically outside in a Biergarten but she is also very happy to take a beer on the terrace at her work, and enjoy the view out to sea, providing it's not snowing I suppose. Morgane shares the path which led her to become a brewer (30:00) and made it to hold her position at Pit Caribou, in Quebec. She is one of the few female brewers in the industry but this is changing along with the times. Morgane elaborates on how travel influences her brewing creatively (39:00) and how she sees beer culture and the simple act of enjoying a beer as a way of breaking down barriers and finding accessible means to get to know people and make friends all over the (42:40) world... Enjoy. Don't forget to follow Morgane and her beer adventures on Instagram @the.iron.mango Since recording, Morgane wanted to share that her favourite foreign word is "Feierabendbier" which is a German word and means the beer that we drink at the end of a hard day's work. Further links:- Pit Caribou: https://pitcaribou.com/en/ plus their Instagram @micropitcaribou Oak and Time Brewery in Oslo Insta: @eikogtid A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E23 · Thu, June 10, 2021
How To Be an Expat
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Sixtina from sixmilesaway.com her website and blog. Sixtina says that travelling and living in diverse countries has helped shape her into the person she is today. Evolving from a self-proclaimed rebellious teenager, intolerant and stubborn, who wanted things her own way to a more rounded, simple-living woman who speaks multiple languages, is more tolerant, more patient, open-minded, spontaneous and good-humoured. Is this the result of the expat life? In conversation, Sixtina talks about her first living abroad experiences which happened in the USA on high-school exchange to improve English (6:55) of course but many other things too. We go on to talk about the meaning of the term 'expat' (8:55) at least what it means to us. I ask Sixtina what she believes makes for a good expat or a not so good one (10:15). We discuss stereotypes, pre-judging people and how we have to be aware of how easy it can be to hold prejudices, boxing people into who we think they are, based on where they come from (15:40). On the road, we can always be surprised. That is one of the great things about travelling. Sixtina shares some of the occasions where her expectations have not been met, (23:20) both in good ways and not so good ways. Being involved in the community (28:55) is important to Sixtina's expat existence. She has some information on how she assimilates when she is abroad and gives tips on volunteering opportunities that can be found all over the world and websites like "Work Away" that facilitate this exchange of culture and goodwill. We talk about Homesickness. Can you become immune or is it something that will creep up on you from time to time (39:10) especially when far away from your family during special holidays? Sixtina has some tips on how to cope from her many years of experience living as an expat in the Netherlands, Mexico, Ireland etc where the customs are different from that of her native Germany. No matter whether you are a beginner expat, or have been playing this game for a while we can always improve. Sixtina tells us how she intends to continue to improve and be the best traveller and expat she can be (48:55). It's good stuff. So are you ready? Enjoy! Don't forget to get out Sixtina on social media. Her blog: https://www.sixmilesaway.com/ Her Insta handle: @sixmilesaway And Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/SixMilesAway Further links:- Work Away: https://www.workaway.info/ A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email <a href="mailto:th
S2 E22 · Thu, June 03, 2021
Remaining Travel-Positive in Pandemic Times
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Valentina, aka "Kooky" from KookyLovestoTravel.com. She is a digital nomad, writer, and content creator with a big passion for photography and an even bigger passion for life. Valentina left her home in Croatia years ago and has since lived in three European countries and travelled through 13 or more. In this way, we are from a similar experience. But how does someone who loves to travel and explore like this respond to a global crisis where we are forced to lockdown and not really go far? In conversation, Valentina tells the reasons why she loves to travel nad (6:20) where it all began and what her specific motivations were to leave home and move to Amsterdam (11:10) and then onto Spain where she found herself at the start of the pandemic when the whole world began to shut down. I was curious to find out details on how Valentina managed to explore some of the Mediterranean islands during these Covid times with such a quiet atmosphere, being able to meet locals and not have to wait in line with tourists (17:45). Valentina explains (26:40) how she has been able to keep positive, stay happen and remain travel optimistic over the last year and a bit. She offers great advice on how to stay humble and maximise the opportunities that have been presented to us recently, the opportunity to travel more domestically and reacquaint oneself with one's home let's say. She has some tips for places even more interesting and less touristy to visit in Croatia now too (31:35). We talk about how we can create a travel philosophy for ourselves (40:05) or at least try to be the best traveller we can be in these modern 21st century times (41:30)... Enjoy. You can follow Valentina on Instagram @kookylovestotravel Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNhwxpddM1GcemIBK7c9b9w Blog: https://kookylovestotravel.com/ A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E21 · Thu, May 27, 2021
A Life-Changing Trip to Australia
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Emma Krebs. Emma is a lovely, friendly Canadian girl. She's still in her early twenties, so I am old in comparison and find myself sometimes today referring to people of a similar university age, like Emma is, as "kids" but not Emma. She has a wisdom, maturity, and a level of self-esteem as well as common sense far beyond her years. Whether this has anything to do with her unquenchable curiosity (so much so that she had to create and host her own podcast) or to do with her vagabonding experiences touring Australia for 10% of her life (at that time) is something we're going to discuss. In conversation, I ask why Australia? (6:25) Why go there? Emma shares what a typical viewpoint of Australia is for someone not born and raised there, like myself. We reflect on reading 'Vagabonding' which is a travel bible by Rolf Potts and how certain types of travellers can be different from many people in society, leading to feelings of disconnection (14:00) from the mainstream. Emma shares a brief chronology of what she got up to during her two-year jaunt around Australia (18:25) notably her WWOOFING in the Daintree rainforest, farmwork in Queensland (34:00) and being broke-as in Melbourne. Travelling is not always super fun, chilled or even glamorous you see. You can be hot, sweaty, hungry and afraid of spiders all at the same time. But it's certain moments even beyond these that can have an impact (22:30) and Emma is generous enough to share them openly as well as what living out of a backpack for two years (27:50) will teach you. We then challenge that whole stranger-danger narrative we were both fed as kids, growing up (29:30) too. I was curious to find out from Emma whether two years of life university in Australia would be better than actual uni (32:25) and what her best and worst moments were in her Aussie adventure (44:20). Emma rounds out the chat by answering how travel has helped her evolve into the kind of Emma she is today (50:00) and whether her experiences abroad have helped her establish or re-establish her connection to society and herself... Enjoy. Don't forget to check out Emma's podcast, 'the Curious One' which is available everywhere and follow her on Instagram @thecuriousonepodcast too. A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E20 · Thu, May 20, 2021
Is Travel a Better Education or Uni?
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Simon Palmer. Simon has been practising architecture for well over ten years in his home country of Australia and abroad too. The interesting thing about Simon, in discovering who he is and what path he would choose as a 20-year-old, is that his decisions stemmed from experiences abroad and the solo travels he made between studying at high school and undertaking tertiary qualifications. The so-called GAP year you could say:- Get A Purpose! Or in Simon's words that cliche of, "Finding himself." In conversation, we reminisce on times at the University of Canberra (6:30) while we were both students there in 2005/2006-ish. Simon mentions how he felt grateful and even privileged to be allowed the opportunity to study at the university (12:20) to realise his career ambition to design buildings for his vocation. Simon explains in detail the events which happened in Berlin (16:45) where he was challenged about the person he was and the person he could be. This all happened in the beautifully designed Holocaust Museum and then his chance encounter with a soothsayer of sorts on the streets outside. We talk about savouring moments (29:00) and how at a young age Simon discovered this practice and has carried it with him throughout his life. This is interesting because it was this act that caught my attention in the first place. I have a very visual memory of Simon enjoying an obscure beer while chilling at a uni party where the rest of the students were drinking cheap box wine as quickly as possible. No savouring at all, and not even tasting most probably. Cause it tastes bloody awful. Simon shares some suggestions of places to go and savour life's moments (32:00) from his experiences. Places like the Greek islands, Croatia, Costa Rica and New Zealand surprisingly for one of the best night skies in the world. Recently, Simon has found even if it's just a casual walk, run or bike in your 15min neighbourhood, this simple act can re-invigorate the mind, especially in covid times. We discuss (39:15) whether international experience, travel and working/living abroad impacts on your job and future prospects. (41:30) And to conclude, Simons tells of his thoughts on possible destinations to explore in the future in the upcoming post-covid global experience... Enjoy. Further links:- Jewish Museum in Berlin: https://www.jmberlin.de/en/libeskind-building Stoicism: https://aeon.co/essays/why-stoicism-is-one-of-the-best-mind-hacks-ever-devised A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email <a href=
S2 E19 · Thu, May 13, 2021
An Italian-Style Sea-Change?
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Clive Drew. Clive and I met in actual 3-Dimensional space over 10 years ago near the end of 2010 on a night out in the East End of London. We have a mutual friend called Chris who organised a curry on the famous, Brick Lane, then to go on and enjoy Clive's gig at 93 Feet East in the old Truman Brewery. Good times - Apart from the overly inflated price of Jamaican lager. Clive is a passionate and creative person with over 12 years of experience in PR and marketing, specialising in the music biz. Writer, musician and conscientious worker, it makes sense that Clive excelled in work and life in the big city of London. So why did he move? In conversation, we talk about moving to London in your 20's and 30's (6:55) to pursue your best life and I ask questions as to why then after a decade or so Clive decided to pack up his life in London (9:25) and move abroad. Perhaps for a sea-change with a career change? Clive shares some of the preparations he made, (13:25) in terms of vocation and location prior to leaving London and also about his 6-week trip to India (14:55) he made in the time available between leaving the UK and setting up in his new job and place to live in Italy, on the Adriatic Sea. We talk about the timings of our big decisions in life (18:55) whether there is a right time, a wrong time, or just our time. Clive explains what his motivations were for this experience living abroad (22:55) and working as an English teacher in Bari. And how this time has been beneficial for rediscovering some of his first-loved creative pursuits such as writing. We discuss the kind of discoveries, explorations (25:55) and mini-adventures Clive has made since living in Italy and how his lifestyle has been affected (31:10) by Covid times. In the end, we both agree that the best thing to do right now is to keep a positive mindset (35:55) and immerse yourself in culture (41:50) for creative inspiration. Clive gives his advice to anyone thinking of seeking a sea-change and maybe a career change and becoming a TEFL or a TESOL teacher somewhere in this wonderful world... Enjoy. You can follow Clive on Instagram @clivedrew and don't forget to check out his musings on his writing website too http://setyourownscene.com/ Further links:- Teaching English: https://www.tefl.com/ , https://www.tesol.org/ Clive's school: https://www.lordbyroncollege.com/teaching-opportunities/ A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email <a
S2 E18 · Thu, May 06, 2021
Crazy Canadians Part Two - Bike Hike for Charity
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Matt Chalupnicek. Matt is another Canadian and fits my descriptor of being cool, charismatic but kinda crazy. We worked together for a few months in Australia when he was travelling the world with Matt, another Matt whom I also worked with. It was a little confusing at times working with two Matts, both Canadian, both kind of crazy. Matt Sebastian was the other Matt in fact, the other Matt who was on the previous podcast episode with Shaun McCord. It was this Matt, Matt C, who was one of the other riders on that epic east to west bike hike across Canada. In conversation, we talk about an accident in Calgary that could have killed Matt (10:10) ironically on a bike. While he was in recovery, with a busted jaw, broken arm and a sore head he was invited on the journey. After some deliberation, he decided to join but make the trip his own at the same time (22:40). And why not try to raise money for charity too. So he did. Matt tells of some of the mishaps he endured (38:10) like when he got sick in Quebec, all alone and had to make a deadline while cycling, soaked in the rain and dog-tired. The things you do for others I suppose. Matt explains how this journey changed him (54:40) and some of the achievements he is proud of (55:10) too. I was curious to know Matt's favourite memory (60:10) of the trip and why he would recommend (1:07:00) these kinds of epic adventures... Enjoy. It was great to have a chat with another old buddy after so many years. If there has been one benefit to this pandemic it has been the willingness of people to reconnect over Zoom. That's been pretty sweet... A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
Thu, April 29, 2021
Crazy Canadians Part One - A Bike Hike Across the Nation
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I have two guests on to chat. And these two guests are zooming-in from two different locations on either side of Canada. Today's guests are Matt Sebastian and Shaun McCord. Matt and Shaun are a cycling partnership. Together, they crossed the whole country of Canada, east to west. More or less. Shaun is from the west coast and Matt is from western-ish Canada but their journey together started on the eastern side of Canada, in a hostel in Halifax, Nova Scotia many years ago. In conversation, we talk about whose crazy idea (10:50) it was initially to attempt such a daring adventure to cycle from the eastern tip of Canada, all the way to the west coast. As with any trip, there are fears that have to be considered (15:35) and how these might be overcome. We talk about the unique route (18:50) that Matt and Shaun ended up taking and some of the picturesque vistas (28:50) they passed through, notably Manitoulin Island on Lake Huron. On a mega-long trip, such as this one, there will always be those inevitable scary moments (39:20) but I was caught off guard by what Shaun and Matt had to say about witnessing an awful racism encounter one evening in Manitoba. But on a more positive note, Matt Sebastian's life changed on this trip as he met his now-wife en route (44:50) in Ottawa. With so many weeks on the highways together I was curious to hear what Shaun and Matt experienced once they had finally reached the finish line (48:00), so to speak. I was confident that both Matt and Shaun would have comments about how this epic road trip - by peddle power - was life-changing (51:00) with countless opportunities for personal growth. And I didn't expect such heartfelt comments from both guys saying how much their riding buddy meant to the trip and their relationship in general... Enjoy. Shaun wanted me to make a note that he made a mistake about cultural greetings during the "Fav 4" at (56:20) and he actually texted me the correction, "Miigetwetch is not a Cree greeting expression, it is an Ojibwa word which means - thank you." Cheers Shaun :) A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E16 · Thu, April 22, 2021
Real F@&kin' Travel Talk – No Fluff! No Filters!
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond podcast, I talk with Tatum Skipper. Tatum is an entrepreneur and travel is at the heartbeat of her enterprise. Some people know her as the fearless travel coach, others know her as the founder of Bonvoyage Babes Travel Blog and others still as host of 20 Till Takeoff podcast. If you've met Tatum on the traveller beat and didn't know these amazing things she is up to in her day-to-day life, you might know Tatum as a no-bullshit, dive headfirst traveller, who is a barrel of laughs, a classic drinking buddy perhaps, but no doubt, all-round good company. In conversation, Tatum reveals that certain toxic relationships (6:30) in her past pushed her to step outside of herself, and the person she'd fallen into, in order to rediscover her true identity again and travel helped her to make that happen. But - What does true identity mean? How much do we bullshit each other, and how much do we bullshit ourselves? (11:15) What I like is Tatum is refreshingly bullshit-free. We chat about travel social media and whether or not it is a true and authentic representation of the travel experience. (14:45) Is it better to have a positive experience rather than a negative one? How much do travel expectations (24:15) play a role in the outcomes of certain travel adventures? Tatum offers candid stories of some of her dumb-arse mistakes (26:15) from the past. Fear takes centre stage in the second half of the chat. Tatum expresses how she fears regret more than failure (34:45) and gives away some free advice with her "ATA GIRL" approach to travel and fears in life, in general. It's good stuff... Enjoy. If you want to follow Tatum, her blog and podcast you can find her at the following: Insta: @bonvoyage_babes and @20tilltakeoff Website/blog: https://bonvoyage-babes.com/ Tatum is also on tiktok and clubhouse if you prefer those platforms. A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E15 · Thu, April 15, 2021
How to Use the Great Outdoors - Stay In Balance
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond podcast, I talk with Drea Castro. Drea is an actress, producer, and also a fellow podcaster who was born in the Philippines and now lives in the USA. She loves the great outdoors (4:15) and uses camping, hiking, just being in nature as her therapy from her super busy work-life in the city. In conversation, we talk about the numerous options that exist in the lower 48 to get out into nature (13:30) with Death Valley being an all-time favourite place for Drea, and Zion too. It's the benefits of simplifying life (16:45) at least for a few days, just moving from point A to point B, the de-cluttering and decompressing that Drea knows that she needs to maintain a healthy and creative lifestyle. Stay sane... Drea explains that climbing mountains is something she (23:30) finds rewarding even if she is slow and steady, she'll do her best to make it. She has summited Mount Whitney which was a highlight but a low-light was a near death experience walking down the Grand Canyon to the Colorado River back in the day (26:15). The crazy things you do when you're young. We talk about whether the journey is more important than the destination. (33:45) Some of Drea's favourite experiences hiking so far were when both the journey and the destination were awesome (36:30) in the USA and abroad too. A recommendation (44:15) for a hike option is Treasure Lake by Bishop, in California. Drea started a podcast (47:45) during the pandemic, like me, and she explains why and how she fits it into her busy schedule, at the end of the chat... Enjoy. You can follow Drea on Instagram @imroamingtheearth and find her at this website too: https://www.roamingtheearthpodcast.com/ A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E14 · Thu, April 08, 2021
Podcast Recap + Personal Vagabond Tales
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, it's just me - Allan Hill, that nostalgic vagabond. Easter Greetings (1:55) to all of you - my lovely listeners. Listen in to this one for a recap (3:35) on the podcast so far from August 2020 until now. Hear what I have discovered to be the best things (6:15) and worst things (9:15) about the podcasting experience during these lockdown days. I remind everyone what the major purpose of the podcast is (10:30) and still is, and then go into a story, a personal story of mine (13:45) of which I guess I need to create a working title: The Risk of Returning to Pre-Loved Destinations? Travel Expectations Can be Dangerous - Beware? Let me know what you guys think. Have a listen to my hopes (31:55) for the podcast and moving forward (32:30) and looking forward from here and what's coming up in the next episodes (34:15) of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond'. Don't forget, your journey is special... Enjoy. A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E13 · Sun, April 04, 2021
Road Bogans - The Island of Ireland
On this Easter Monday episode release of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I'm talking with Matt Burnett. Matt featured on the 2020 Christmas Special where he played host for an ep and interviewed me, just to mix things up a bit. A job well done too. I enjoyed myself. This time we talk about road trips and how our driving-duo became informally known as the "Road Bogans" from our unique driving adventures where we travel on the cheap, we travel off the beat and we are obliged to go to smaller places that you would never really discover in guide books. These are affectionately named, "the bogan towns." In conversation, Matt and I reveal what it is about road trips that we find appealing (4:45) and where Matt's international road trip experiences began (8:20) as well as my own. (9:10) The USA is a wicked place to road trip (12:30). Both Matt and I have road-tripped in the States. I'd always go back for another and I'd bet Matt would too, however, Road Bogans was born on an initial trip where Matt and I explored the Island of Ireland in 2015. (17:30) We share some mega tips (19:30) on getting a car rental. How to not be done over by car rental companies which can hamper your trip financially and just put you in a mood. And you don't want that at the start of your holiday. Then we get into the drama of that funny time travelling in Ireland, Northern and the Republic of. And boy was there some drama... From Derry (33:00) to Omagh (40:45) along the Great Atlantic Way(45:30) and down the coast to legendary Galway (50:20) and around again. What were the high point and low point (1:08:30) of that trip? This barely 2-week trip was packed with loads of entertainment and shit. Literally. Actually... I'm really fond of this episode. Matt is not afraid to challenge me and in this honest chat some of my trait weaknesses in personality leave me left naked, bare-arsed, on my own pod mind you. But it's OK. I know I am not perfect. But I'm always trying to improve. And I don't mind the trolling when it's done with a Leyland accent either... Enjoy. Further links:- Tips on car rental: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/travel/cheap-car-hire/ A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E12 · Sun, March 28, 2021
Teaching Abroad in A Pandemic
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Chris Ascroft. We chatted on the first series of the podcast, last summer, during the main wave of the coronavirus pandemic, linking up from Liverpool and Montreal to discuss travel, traveller hostel culture and teaching English abroad. At that time Chris was preparing to begin a new adventure in a new country, teaching more than just English as a second language but teaching all kinds of subjects in English to grade 3 kids, and over 40 of them in his class too. Woah! In conversation, we get straight into the Covid updates out there in (5:10) Taiwan. Basically, Taiwan is Covid-free as Chris tells. They are even conducting "Panmdemic Tours" to cater to domestic tourists as no international tourists are coming in right now (8:40). Chris reflects on summer last year when he packed up life again in Canada (9:40) and moved back to Asia. He was excited to come to Taiwan to live and work (17:00) and has discovered many interesting things about the place and some things many people don't know. There's so much good, local food there, (28:30) especially in Chris's favourite night markets. Chris explains what exactly his role as a homeroom teacher involves (33:40). And how this role has been different (37:10) from his previous teaching jobs. He shares what it has been like in his first 6 months teaching in Taiwan in the midst of a global corona crisis (38:15). Apart from working, there is a lot that Taiwan has to offer for leisure time, away from the classroom. Chris explains how much of the island is accessible by high-speed train (42:00) and the richness and diversity of places to visit, things to see and do. Beautiful beaches. Hilly hikes. Historical towns. Different cultural places. And incredible food. Everywhere! We conclude the chat on what Chris thinks will happen with Covid and teaching (49:30) for now and the future. Chris has tips for anyone considering English teaching abroad (53:10) as well. One thing's for certain, (59:40) Chris is fond of Taiwan... Enjoy. If you want to get in touch with Chris and ask him any questions regarding teaching abroad, he's been kind enough to provide you with this address:- chris.ascroft@gmail.com A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E11 · Sun, March 21, 2021
Busting Rumours in North Korea
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Whitney Saldava. Whitney currently works at NATO and before that she worked as a journalist. You can just google her name and you'll discover loads of articles and various works she's written. Being a polyglot (5:30) and competent in six languages has no doubt helped in her career, though Whitney says the use of languages within her current role is a somewhat touchy issue. You'll hear more about that. In conversation, Whitney explains how she quickly grew too large for her native "small pond" in Latvia and since, her travel addiction (8:30) has taken her to over 60 countries, so far. She always grabs specific souvenirs (14:30) and no country is exempt, no matter how difficult these specific souvenirs can be to find. Whitney recounts the backstory on how she ended up in North Korea after completing the trans-Siberian Rail journey. She speaks highly of a travel company called Lupine Travel (24:15) who set up her North Korean adventure for her. Having a travel company or tour agent set up a travel itinerary for a North Korean experience is mandatory if anyone ever wants to actually get inside. I take Whitney through a 9-round rumour busting routine (31:00) and inquire on things regarding clothing and customs in North Korea, religion in North Korea, how the North Korean leaders are honoured and what kind of state surveillance exists, among other things. Whitney is well-travelled and it takes a lot to deter her, but there was one time when she was actually pretty scared in North Korea while staying at the Yanggakdo International Hotel. It's kind of like an island fortress for tourists in the middle of a river just outside the capital. The closest Whitney has come to South Korea, country number 60-odd is the DMZ, (48:45) on the North Korean side so no special souvenir from South Korea as yet, but in time... Enjoy. You can keep up to date with what Whitney is up to on Instagram, TikTok and Clubhouse. @vitnijas Further links:- Lupine Travel: https://lupinetravel.co.uk/north-korea-holidays-and-tours/ Google Flights: https://www.google.com/travel/flights Visit Estonia: https://www.visitestonia.com/en/ A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E10 · Sun, March 14, 2021
How to Find That Dream Hostel
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I'm talking with Tony. Tony is an American expat living in Vietnam. He's been stuck there (5:00) since the start of the pandemic for more or less a year now. Before the world shut down due to corona he was 8 months into another epic global adventure, continuing to work towards his ambition of exploring every country on planet Earth. In conversation, we discuss how travel, especially intial trips, can have life-changing consequences (11:15) where we re-evaluate the kind of life we wish to live, what our priorities are and what we feel is important plus the places we wish to invest our resources. Tony describes how long-term travelling is really a mindset (19:45) but special moments (23:00) like his time climbing Bromo in Indonesia can reaffirm in him the decisions he has taken to be a global explorer. No matter what oppostion he may encounter about his lifestyle. One of Tony's dreams is to run his own hostel, and such to be an extension of his personality. We talk about what makes for a good hostel experience (28:00) and what differentiates a hostel from a hotel or certain accommodation chains (34:15). Tony plans to one day build a unique hostel in Georgia. So (38:15) you can all watch out for that. Travel is like a drug (44:00) and it's so addictive, just like social media is addictive. Tony and I conclude this episode by sharing thoughts on the travel influencer space. Is it exploitative? (47:45) Is social media, in the travel space, a true and authentic representation of certain destinations or just a big ball of fluff to maximise (53:15) the grams? Enjoy. And don't forget to follow Tony on his Instagram page, @trekwithtony Further links:- Friends Hostel: https://frendzresorthostels.com/ Tony's new book - 'The Endlust War' (available on Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0917PXFRQ A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E9 · Mon, March 08, 2021
Off-the-Beaten-Track Adventures
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Tash Samek. Tash is a creative strategy director and founder of Clayton's Cocktails in the UK. We met a few years ago at a screenwriters' conference at Regent's University in London. At that time I was unaware of how many fascinating adventures she had been on over the years in places like Australia, Asia, Europe and the Americas. In conversation, we talk about Tash's initial independent trips away from home (4:50) and the moment she changed her mindsets on travel from a British Island hopper type to an uber-adventurous independent travel seeker. Tash shares some of her favourite experiences in Columbia, like that time she was hitching rides (17:45) off the back of trucks. Sleeping in hammocks on the beaches of a peninsula where very few travellers are brave enough to go. We talk about her haphazard journeys through deserted towns in Bolivia (24:55) climbing up mudslides to find her accommodation sometimes. We discuss the positives and negatives of a tourist path known as the Gringo Trail (36:50) and Tash is reminded of her bizarre experience at the Potosi mine (38:30). We also talk about the idea of planning and spontaneity when seeking off-the-beaten-track adventures (39:50). It's all in the decisions you make along the way. I ask Tash, what does authentic travel mean (43:20) and I probe about her ideas on risk verse reward when it comes to seeking off-the-beaten-track adventures (49:05). Find out why Tash recommends off-the-beat adventures (54:35) as well... Enjoy. You can follow Tash on Instagram @tashki123 and you can also check out Clayton's Cocktails, her new enterprise, @claytons_cocktails A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com Her favourite foreign word is... TBA
S2 E8 · Mon, March 01, 2021
International Travel - An American Student's Perspective
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Catie. Catie is a very optimistic and adventurous student undertaking a Ba Arts at the University of Nevada. As well as working towards her degree Catie is an entrepreneur and recently started an online business. The self-proclaimed "risk-taker" of the family. At only 23, and while studying, Catie has managed to save a bit of money and travelled internationally to 12 different countries so far, all over the world. Her passion has been found in travel. In conversation, Catie and I discuss how young Americans view international travel (6:20) as she reflects on her initial trip to Spain on a study program (10:00). We also talk about those life-altering experiences and witnessing moments that shift original perspectives on the world, one's home, and one's self. Is travel addictive? We talk about that too. (18:30) Catie is very committed to sticking to her travel budgets and is generous enough to share some tips (22:30) here especially when it comes to things like ticketing, eating, and sleeping (27:50). We talk about the idea of solo travel (35:30) and whether it's your bag (or not) but more importantly how travelling might improve you, (39:40) if you let it. Catie has a podcast called, 'Let's Travel Baby' (48:50) where she shares her unique experiences and gives away tips on travelling within a tight budget... Enjoy. Don't forget to check out Catie on Insta to find out more about her journey and travel stories @catieeelala. A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E7 · Mon, February 22, 2021
One Hungary Girl Trekking in the Himalayas
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Zsófia Sáfár. She's from Hungary and currently bases herself in Budapest and sometimes in Italy where she works as a journalist and has written for multiple print and web publications. Zsófia describes herself as a beginner traveller, (4:30) but from the beginning, she has thrown herself in the deepened. Like cruising with strangers on a digital nomads cruise ship, and then backpacking around South America as her first solo trip. And from there, things continued to go up. Literally... In conversation, Zsófia shares her motivations for trekking to Everest Base Camp at the start of 2020 (12:00). This kind of trip is all about pushing the limits (17:15) of your fears, physical abilities and inner stamina. Being organised is important too (18:30) but sometimes things don't go according to plan. And 2020 was definitely the year for that. From experiencing altitude sickness on the mountain passes (24:00) to then not having the best equipment (27:45) to getting lost on the biggest mountain in the world (33:45) this trip was certainly a grand adventure as Zsófia explains. And because my guest is used to being the interviewer and not the interviewee I figured why not let Zsófia ask me a few questions too (47:10)... Enjoy. You can watch a video from Zsófi's trek here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSXb3lIED_I&feature=youtu.be Further links:- Nomad Cruises: https://www.nomadcruise.com/ Magical Nepal tour company: https://www.magicalnepal.com/ Work Away: https://www.workaway.info/ Couchsurfing: https://www.couchsurfing.com/ A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E6 · Mon, February 15, 2021
A HitchHiker's Guide to Africa - in the 90's
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Tamara Bee. Tamara is a Canadian / British traveller with 3 decades of adventures and experiences. Her life changed in 1993 when an old school friend convinced her to pack up and embark on an ambitious overland journey across multiple continents from Paris to Cape Town in South Africa. We'll touch on this but mainly recount Tamara's return leg where she hitchhiked back up the coast from South Africa to Nairobi in Kenya. Solo! In conversation, Tamara reveals that everything really all began when she moved from her home province out west to Banff to work in hospitality (6:00) but it didn't take too much convincing from school mate Casey (10:30) to take on this epic overland journey which was supposed to take only about 6 months but it basically took a year... And then some. Tamara explains why she decided to hitch back up to Kenya (16:00) and reflects on that time she was lost in Lesotho, (18:10) was propositioned by a guy like Richard Gere did to Julia Roberts in the famous film 'Pretty Woman' (26:15) as well as details of her crazy ordeals in Mozambique (33:30). Tamara has extensive experience travelling through Africa in the 90s and she's had the Malawia to prove it. (43:30) She's got some great insight on life and times in Nairobi (46:30) too. This trip was life-changing (48:00) and Tamaras tells of some of the most important lessons (51:30) she learned on this crazy odyssey and how it has shaped her (53:50) travel philosophy... Enjoy. You can find out more about Tamara and her journeys on her website. www.manyroadstravelled.com She has her own pod too. A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E5 · Mon, February 08, 2021
From London to China - A Journey by Train
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk again with an old travel pal, Jay Canning. Jay was on the very first episode of the podcast way back in August 2020. That time we spoke about how Jay started travelling, with me, in California in 2009 and progressed, becoming more and more adventurous with subsequent trips in the Balkans, Morocco and then tackling the Tran-Siberian railway. A train journey that had fascinated him for years. (If you want to listen to that podcast scroll right to the bottom of the archive, episode 1) This time we're diving deeper into that Trans-Siberian journey and how Jay managed to successfully travel from London to China - by train. In conversation, we discuss why, (5:00) including some of Jay's necessary preparations (8:20) like learning a bit of Russian which is covered in more details (13:00) on his previous episode. Jay also shares what were his greatest challenges (31:30) and how he could have completely screwed his journey in Cologne (36:20) literally days into the 3-month long trip. Getting drunk with Russians is mandatory (40:15) but you have to have your wits about you when there are some interesting border crossings to navigate (53:15). Jay's adventure had its ups and downs but Jay explains how completing this journey has impacted his life (54:45) and recommends every young person go on adventures to test yourself and shape yourself, while your young (56:00)... Enjoy. Further links:- Train Travel Guru: www.seat61.com Mr Bald: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxDZs_ltFFvn0FDHT6kmoXA A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E4 · Mon, February 01, 2021
How to be Successful in Couples Travel
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Katie and Gaurav. Together they are the "Third Culture Nomads". Katie and Gaurav have been travelling together ever since they met in Singapore. In conversation, we talk about what travelling was like for these guys individually, (9:00) before they were a couple and then how travel has defined (12:00) their relationship. Usually, my guests are solo travellers but in this talk, we focus on factors of maintaining a healthy travelling partnership (14:30) as well as a healthy relationship, in general, I think. Katie and Gaurav talk about the learning opportunities that exist in their relationship (30:30) and the gains which can be made through communicating feelings and perspectives to your partner (39:30). We talk about how we can change and evolve as travellers in the types we are and in the journeys we take, like train travel (48:30) which these nomads have grown to love. A little bit of tried and tested advice is always good and I probe these guys for some useful tips. (55:30)Towards the end, Katie and Gaurav explain exactly what their name "Third Culture Nomads" (72:30) means... Enjoy. You can follow Katie and Gaurav and their slow travel adventures on Instagram @thirdculturenomads. A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E3 · Mon, January 25, 2021
Archaeology - 3 Interesting Places My Work Has Taken Me
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I catch up with Dr Martin Goffriller. Martin was a guest on the first series of the podcast, during the height of the pandemic last year. His episode titled, 'Thinking Road Trips' was well received by some of you so I decided to have him on again. This time to talk about his current vocation as an Associate Professor of Archaeology, working at a tertiary education institution in China. In conversation, we discuss three interesting places in the world Martin has explored as part of working in the field of Archaeology: Beautiful Butrint in Albania (5:30) Oman, in the middle-east (11:00) and, the central Asian state of Kazakhstan (20:30) which links up nicely with stories Martin shared about his epic road trip with Momo across Eurasia in the previous episode. Martin reveals the fate (30:00) of his beloved Toyota 4-Runner too. Martin offers some commentary on quarantine in China and gives an insight into general life there (31:00) and how life has changed over the last decade or two from first-hand accounts (38:30) from his unique travel experience... Enjoy. Further links:- Castles of Mallorca PhD paper: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/235762345_The_Castles_of_Mallorca_A_diachronic_perspective_of_the_dynamics_of_territorial_control_on_an_Islamic_island China University of Mining and Technology http://ghs.cumt.edu.cn/96/f5/c16264a497397/page.htm A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E2 · Mon, January 18, 2021
Couchsurfing at Home, and Abroad
On this episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast, I talk with Kevin Russell. Kevin is born and raised here in the UK. He's a proud Scouser, talented musician, and small business owner. Kevin is a real people person which is probably why he has enjoyed being involved with the Couchsurfing community over the years. In conversation, over the phone we reflect on Couchsurfing at home and abroad. According to Wikipedia, Couchsurfing is a global hospitality exchange service accessible via a website and an app. We discuss how we see Couchsurfing (4:00) as an idea and a community. Kevin explains how he first came across this social media platform, which is actually social. Couchsurfing in its origins is a tool to build friendships in person, not through devices. We talk about what we believe a healthy CS ideology should be, (11:00) the ethos. Kevin shares how he created a Couchsurfing community in his home town and reflects on some of the initial challenges (21:00) but also the rewards which came with perseverance (26:00). We laugh about some of the characters we've encountered (29:00) some of the places we've visited (31:00) and how we believe paying it forward (43:00) into the community with great hospitality is how Couchsurfing should be. Couchsurfing communities are everywhere and Kevin and I discuss some of the interesting CS experiences we've had in the past as well as ponder what the shape the CS community might morph into (52:00) in a post-Covid world... Enjoy. You can find below some links to Kevin's music: INVISIBLE ALLIANCE http://invisiblealliance.moonfruit.com/ PETE ARROWSMITH http://petearrowsmithmusic.moonfruit.com/ NEW MUSIC VIDEO CHANNEL https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7G6mXyRpkRSeSC1lNCKvQ?view_as=subscriber Further links:- Couchsurfing website https://www.couchsurfing.com/ A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S2 E1 · Mon, January 11, 2021
How to Be Your Best Traveller
On this initial episode of 'the Nostalgic Vagabond' podcast (series-2) I talk with Ashley Lammle. Ashley hails from Western Australia. He has since moved to Canada for career ambitions, working in heavy industry. Over the years, Ashley has travelled to many fine destinations for work and pleasure and has developed a unique travel philosophy. Ashley strives to become "his" best traveller, one who is proactive in discovering the "local experience". In conversation, we discuss what is the difference between (4:00) a "tourist" and a "traveller". Ashley shares how being proactive and seeking out remote villages in Columbia (7:00) inspired him to begin his own evolution as a traveller. Simply drinking beers in the street with locals, Ashley tells how he discovered his way of exploring beyond the tourist facade in a foreign place (12:00). Similarly, playing sports with local kids in Guinea (17:00) and interacting with people helps you to understand more about this incredible world that we live in. Plus, how friendly people (24:00) are in the Bahamas. We talk about proactive strategies to engage with local people (27:00) from fitness clubs to drinking tea in China. We also discuss travel philosophies (33:00) and the evolutions or the organic creation of an individual's travel philosophy. Travel is never without hiccups and Ashley tells a good one on his first disastrous trip (38:00) to Cuba... Enjoy. You can find Ashley on Instagram if curious about his landscape photographs. @ashleylammle A big thanks to Tom Forfar for creating the title tracks for the podcast series. And, any comments or feedback feel free to email the_n_v@yahoo.com
S1 E26 · Thu, December 31, 2020
2020 is over - Bring on 2021
A big thank you to my guests for their contributions to the Nostalgic Vagabond podcast. And, thank you to all the loyal listeners for your support. Thanks to www.thomasforfar.com for creating the soundtrack for the podcast. This episode serves as a quick wrap up for 2020 and to let you know what 2021 has in store for the Nostalgic Vagabond - Until next time...
S1 E24 · Mon, December 28, 2020
How Life Changes - When We Go Through the Ages
On this final, full episode of 2020, the Nostalgic Vagabond Zooms-in across the pond to the USA, and to a little place in North Carolina to talk with one of the best talkers around, Tommy Gwynn. Both Tommy and Allan met at significant turning points in their lives, a time where they were embarking on journeys into the unknown. Tommy was about to board a commercial fishing vessel to work for months on end in the freezing seas off Alaska. Allan was planning to attempt a vagabonding journey, a pilgrimage of self-discovery with no end date. His only one obligation, to head east. That was 10 years ago in April 2010. Over 10 years later, Tommy tells of his experiences on board the ship during seasonal contracts. He comments on what the daily routine was like, what the atmosphere was like at sea, and the life-changing events that took him, in the end, away from his fishing career and back home to settle and raise a family. So many years had passed since that initial meeting in Seattle but catching up over Zoom, it was like we only last spoke yesterday... A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
Fri, December 25, 2020
Xtra! Xtra!! - Xmas Special
On this special episode of the Nostalgic Vagabond podcast, special-guest host Matt Burnett (a good friend of Allan) takes the reigns as an interviewer and, Allan Hill takes a step back and becomes the interviewee... Allan shares some memories and bathes in the nostalgia, going back about ten years, from when he first decided to experience solo, long-term independent travel in the south-west of the USA to selling up and becoming a vagabond at the beginning of 2010 - His 26th birthday present to himself was a one-way ticket to LAX. Allan remembers his journeys in the USA, working a summer camp in 2010, getting Canadian work-holiday visas, taking mega ride-shares across Canada. He also shares some funny experiences living in hostels, sneaky yoga moves, and going for hot breakfasts in Montreal, the city where Allan and Matt first met. In the back-end of the ep, Allan and Matt reflect on when Allan first arrived in the UK and what were the first impressions and whether they remain today... Allan hasn't been home for Christmas that much since he left home at 18 and has spent the holidays on the road and in hostels too. Christmas in communion with other travellers can be a great experience. To conclude, Allan shares a little Christmas poem called "Reindeer Vision" before wishing everyone a happy and safe Xmas, well as much as it can be this year. Merry Christmas! wherever you are this year... from the Nostalgic Vagabond
S1 E23 · Mon, December 21, 2020
From Marysville to Toronto - Travel Pushes You to Grow
The Nostalgic Vagabond has always been impressed with very young travellers. Kids, not even twenty who go abroad, solo, to live and work and grow up in an accelerated fashion (but in a healthy way) somewhere, in a foreign country. That really takes guts and determination. On this episode, Felix Gebhardt Zooms-in from Halle in Germany to catch up with Allan in Liverpool, UK. Felix and Allan were hostel dorm-neighbours during their time in Toronto over the 2011/2012 winter season. They met at a party on the rooftop terrace of the hostel and were mates ever since. (Well, kind of -- The next day... Ever since.) Straight after school, Felix spent time living and working in Australia. He experienced highs and lows but he wouldn't trade it for anything. He talks in detail about some of his high points and low moments during his Aussie experience as well as his Canadiana days on his second working holiday programme which came later. Felix presents some interesting points on travel, some things you probably shouldn't do and somethings you just gotta do. Felix is also a burger-lover. Any burger. A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
S1 E22 · Mon, December 14, 2020
Be Organised, if You Can - But You May Require an Alternate Plan
The Nostalgic Vagabond this time Zooms, literally a mile away, to connect with special guest, Clay Petrocchi, in Liverpool city centre. In a pre-Covid world, this would be the opportunity to chat face-to-face but social distance restrictions and winter lockdowns meant that tech had to be used. In this episode, Allan talks with Clay to get the lowdown on his recent, crazy and bizarre adventure where he tried to fly to South Korea to study the language but ended up bouncing through a few European hubs before arriving up in Aruba, the Caribbean and Clay's original home. Clay shares some of his travel experiences in other destinations too. He talks about some language barriers he experienced living in Italy. He humbly shares of some misunderstandings he discovered while travelling in Dubai and the middle-east. Clay is always learning through experience, "being in a place" to figure out what actually is real, beyond the hype, the propaganda and embellished stories you sometimes hear. Clay admits his plans don't always work. However, he is always happy to improvise and even try again. Ironically, the worst connection ever on Zoom came when the distance between host and guest was walkable. Go figure! A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
S10 E21 · Mon, December 07, 2020
Round the World From Paris to Rome - Roxy's Story Since She Left Home
The idea of becoming an adult and leaving "home" is an intriguing one. Does it mean moving out of the family flat or the house you grew up in and living on the other side of town? Does it mean going abroad, miles away, to find your place on another continent? What about, working on the other side of the world? The Nostalgic Vagabond Zooms-in to Rome, Italy to catch up with Roxanne Charpentier, an old housemate from London. Allan and Roxanne lived in neighbouring front rooms in a 2nd-storey flat near Whitechapel, in the east end for about half a year over the 2010/2011 winter. One of the things they share in common is they have lived and worked in multiple countries and both currently reside in places of which they were not born. In this episode, Roxanne takes us on a journey of growing up, abroad, from the time she left her "home" in Paris as a 19-year-old. Her story begins in Montreal, Canada and weaves between places in the UK, Switzerland, Australia, Thailand and Italy. Roxanne is not afraid of much, she tries new things and has learned new languages. Her bubbly and optimistic attitude has opened up many opportunities for her on her journey. But it's possible for anyone to have interesting and sometimes crazy experiences like Roxanne. Listen in to find out... A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
S1 E20 · Mon, November 30, 2020
Travel Makes ME! - Someone I Want to be / Ought to BE
The Nostalgic Vagabond has had the pleasure, on a few occasions, of meeting wonderful travellers in multiple destinations in various countries around the world. It's one thing about modern technology, so much easier to stay current and connected with cool people encountered on the road. Adam Sherry is one of these wonderful travellers, from that road. Adam and Allan met initially in Canada in 2011, whilst chilling in a cozy place many backpackers hold dear to their globe-trotting hearts, the Canadiana in downtown Toronto (RIP). Further meetings happened in 2012 and 2013 in Ireland and the UK as we visited each other at "home". One thing Allan and Adam have experienced is how travel, and in particular solo travel, can push you forward to help you realise your full potential. It's been seven years since the last meeting. In this episode, Adam talks about how far he has come / travelled on his life journey. Adam tells how travelling has helped him become a better musician and performer. For anyone who wants to explore their creative potential, listen in. Maybe world travel could work for you too. Heads up - A special and impromptu musical treat awaits all who reach the end. A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
Mon, November 23, 2020
Don't Need a Complex Plan - Long-term Travel with Richard Ozanne
'JUST GO! COMMIT! SAY YES!' The Nostalgic Vagabond has heard advice like this echoed by many travellers. It's very assertive advice though. Perhaps not ideal for people who may respond better to a more persuasive rather than authoritarian demeanor. 'Try it... Why not?' This sentiment is echoed by Richard Ozanne, a Guernsey native, a brave and independent traveller. Richard decided to experience travel and so he saved up and embarked on a journey. He wanted to, at least, try it out. Starting in places in the USA somewhat familiar and understood, it was an ideal place to find comfort in the traveller lifestyle but Richard wondered how far he could take it. His thoughts were, the worst that could happen if it wasn't working out, he could always just come back home. Richard's epic 15-month journey took him around the world, hopping through three continents. And he successfully carried out his plan for the 25th year of his life. Just travel... This is one example of long-term travel. You can design yours in your own way. Why not?
S1 E18 · Mon, November 16, 2020
Try Living/Working Abroad - Bet Like Monique You'll Never Get Bored
The Nostalgic Vagabond Zooms-in to Canada once again to touch base with Monique Guffens. Monique and Allan met in a downtown Toronto hostel in May 2010. Allan was enjoying a spout of slow travel as he headed eastward across the country while Monique was trying out Toronto as a place to experience living and working in yet another, new culture. Monique is a long-term traveller, businesswoman and mentor. She is an inspiring character with limitless optimism who is always willing to try new things and believes obstacles are for overcoming. Originally from the Netherlands, Monique has lived and worked in many interesting places... In this episode, Allan navigates through Monique's traveller journey kind of step-by-step. From Euro-camping trips in the south of France with the family to seasonal work in the Canary Islands, life and culture in New Zealand, and on to surviving north-eastern Australia. Monique reflects on that time she got stuck in Bangkok airport during an international travel meltdown caused by an erupting volcano, in Iceland. (The other side of the world!) Monique has been based in Canada for some years now and has run her own international-inspired restaurant. But these days she's invested in a new enterprise in health, personal fitness and nutrition in Mississauga. You can find more details about that on her insta: @feelingfiercelyfabulous A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
S1 E17 · Mon, November 09, 2020
When One Travels to Places Afar - Best to See Things As They Are
The Nostalgic Vagabond Zooms-in (more or less home) to the east coast of Australia and to a little town known as Narooma, about one hour south by car from where he grew up with best mate from high school, the man that is, Cameron Thompson. Allan and Cameron have experienced many adventures together. Adventures that started in the Scouts but progressed, in weird ways, from haphazard teenage road trips in island states to crazy, super-sized weddings in Punjabi Pakistan. Although playing the roles of the groom and the best man, at that time we had not much idea of what was going on or what exactly we were supposed to do. (Allan was also was zombified with food poisoning!) In this episode, Cameron shares that something one learns when travelling to destinations far from what is normal in comparison to one's own home is to just experience things as they are. Observe, try to understand but don't get too stressed out if it takes time. Be in the moment, be in that foreign environment, go with the flow and try to embrace the situation. And what is perhaps considered strange or abnormal in native culture is often completely normal in a foreign culture like:- Riding without seatbelts on highways, no helmets on motorbikes, playing cricket on the rooftops of the multistory houses. These are only some of the things in Pakistan. Listen in for more... A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
S1 E16 · Mon, November 02, 2020
'Work Away' - Can I Get a Yay? Or a Nay?
The Nostalgic Vagabond Zooms-in to a fringe-less, deserted Edinburgh-in-lockdown to catch up with an Edinburgh local lad and old hostel dorm mate, Rory Macleod. Rory and Allan met in room 6 at the Canadiana Inn, an awesome backpackers hostel in Toronto, as one of the coldest winters in years approached towards the end of 2013. (And may she, along with her warm wooden fixtures rest in peace...) Rory travelled to Canada, like many seem to do, on one of those young person's Working Holiday Visa programs but this idea, in the beginning, didn't quite make sense to Rory. What is a working holiday anyway? In this episode, Allan reflects on shared experiences with Rory in Canada. The conversation moves with curiosity to one idea of what a working holiday can be, depicted through Rory's colourful experiences which started in Calgary but then went rural with farming (WWOOF / Work Away) experiences in the prairies. He eventually ended up, after various jaunts in the USA, working in downtown Toronto as a "gangsta" burger creator. And his time there was so enjoyable, chilled out and relaxing, it was almost like a holiday. Rory has some great anecdotes from this trip... Additional website information: Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOFING) - https://wwoof.net/ WORK AWAY - https://www.workaway.info/ A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
S1 E15 · Sun, October 25, 2020
The USA and Life-changing Journeys - Ears Open For Some Funny Stories
The Nostalgic Vagabond and Sonia Cosentino met on a slow summer morning in the common room of a chilled-out San Francisco backpacker hostel, way back in June 2009. However, once introductory courtesies were completed the time turned into anything but slow and boring. Meanderings between city sights, fun meals out, random roof-top parties with new friends, Gay Pride Weekend and the mandatory clubbing, movie-like San Fran taxi rides through town, the following couple of days were crazy, random, and completely spontaneous. That was key, but that wasn't all... Zooming-in to Milan in Italy for this episode, Allan and Sonia reflect on those days of solo travelling, exploring the USA, and how much the experiences helped to shaped us into the individuals we are today. It's solo travel that enables the individual to slow down and think about life, where each of us is, and where each of us truly wants to be. Travel helps to open our eyes, experience new cultures, different ideas and fascinating people. It can be exciting and terrifying all at the same time. A rollercoaster of emotions needs to be embraced, from the bus to the beach... And the smart solo traveller quickly learns how to balance risk and reward. A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
S1 E14 · Sun, October 18, 2020
Boat, Bus, Plane or Train - Global Travel, So Much to Gain
The Nostalgic Vagabond is a fan of serendipity. If open to it, a traveller can accidentally discover something good. And friendship can often be that good thing. Allan Zooms-in to London to check in with good friend, Jade Nicholson-Lamb. In 2017, Jade and Allan bumped into each other randomly, twice, in one of the most beautiful places in the world - Lake Bled, in Slovenia. In just a day or two, a strong connection can be created. This often happens on the traveller's trail but once back home, back to the routine of normal life, these friendships can sometimes fall away. Not the case here... Jade shares a refreshing and honest perspective on solo travelling for a female in her early twenties from her experiences Inter-Railing in Europe. She also talks about her six-month Central American adventure in 2018 where she continued to develop, grow in confidence, learned to really live, and figure out who the woman is that she wants to be. Jade has an interesting take on what it means to be an ethical and responsible traveller too. Jade tells of her recent summer vacation in Greece. She explains what it was like to travel during these Covid-19 times. Just note that the observations and experiences were accurate at the time of recording and due to the nature of this global pandemic, any trip in the future may be different. A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
S1 E13 · Sun, October 11, 2020
Sorted Your Work/Life Balance Yet? Do You Need a Reset?
The Nostalgic Vagabond catches up with Jason O'Tirnigh, an old housemate from those bitterly cold Toronto days of the 2013/2014 winter season. (Worst winter in over 40 years apparently. Pandemic tops it tough...) Jason is originally from Dublin and after spending some time working in Canada he has found himself in New York City, the USA. He's living out his dream, a welcomed member of this crazy, concrete-jungle metropolis. Zooming across the pond, Allan and Jason reflect on their past travel experiences. Jason shares a few stories from exotic adventures in India and Russia as well as the joys found in new escapes closer to home. Wilderness regions on various sections of the Appalachian Trail, which stretches the entire Atlantic coast of the US, have become the "go to" destinations for periodic city breaks for Jason in these seemingly never ending quarantine days. During this global pandemic international travel is uncertain and more difficult for all of us to find our own ways to hit reset, regain our creative brain, or get out of a rut. Domestic travel is still possible and North America is a wonderful place for this. Hear Jason's remarks on how travel to all kinds of places, some far away and others not so far away at all, is a great way to find a balance in work-life or with life in general. He's also got some interesting tips on productivity for creative freelancers or anybody working from home, especially out of necessity these days. A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
S1 E12 · Sun, October 04, 2020
Assimilation in a New Country - Listen to Jacqui From County Kerry!
After more than eight years, the Nostalgic Vagabond Zooms-in to Kelowna, British Columbia to catch up with an ex-BMO colleague from Toronto named Jacqui Dowling (Cripps). Allan and Jacqui reminisce about their working holiday visa programs in Canada way back in 2012 but the conversation evolves into what it means to assimilate and settle in a new country, adapt to a new culture and lifestyle. Jacqui is Irish through and through. She possesses many of those loveable Irish traits made famous throughout the world plus some endearing ones unique to her. Jacqui is also technically Canadian, now. A Canadian citizen, she has the blue passport to prove it. But what does that mean? Jacqui has an interesting and personal perspective on exactly what that means, to her. In this episode, she shares what it means to be an Irish person who has come to embrace her Canada, inclusive of all the aspects of the Canadian lifestyle, and of course her Canadian husband too. If you're thinking about travelling to Canada in the future for a GAP year, work away experience, or just your own "living abroad" adventure (because you can) this episode is for you... If you've been lucky in this life to have experienced these types of adventures already, then bring on the nostalgia. ;) NB: Automotive Jargon Translations American English British English Hood Bonnet Trunk Boot A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
S1 E11 · Sun, September 27, 2020
Southern to Northern Hemisphere - Dive In, Have No Fear
After more than a decade, the Nostalgic Vagabond catches up with another Aussie fella, Darren Madigan. Daz hails from the same home town, on the far south coast of New South Wales in Australia. Sun and surf all year round in that little beach-side resort. Allan investigates the traveller's path Daz has taken from Australia to South Korea, where he taught English, and onto his backpacking around the world awhile before ending up teaching business in Manchester, less than one hour away in the UK. It is a (bloody) small world after all. What's interesting, as the discussion touches on, is how much you evolve as a person when you decide to take the leap, and leave what you know as home and try to find yourself, somewhere else. Because you'll never know, if you never go... And sometimes you find out more than you thought you might. A comments section is not available for this podcast. However, if you wish to get in touch with any questions or comments feel free to email me the_n_v@yahoo.com Cheers
Sun, September 20, 2020
Travel to Every Continent - What an Accomplishment!
The Nostalgic Vagabond and Marian Pudimat reminisce about when they met at a youth hostel in San Francisco way back in 2009. Their adventures took them on a wilderness walking weekend in Yosemite National Park in California and immediately onto a Pacific Coast road trip with another new companion from Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara. Good old days... Good fun days... Good beer days... During the call to Germany, Allan asks about Marian's work, study, and travel life and discovers that he has been to every continent, except Antarctica. This was always one of Marian's goals, to visit every continent before he finished his studies. But it took a bachelor's in economics and then years studying to become a doctor to find enough time to achieve his ambitions. Persistence pays.
S1 E9 · Sun, September 13, 2020
Thinking Road Trips - Listen to These Tips!
Who doesn't love a road trip? They make movies about it! The Nostalgic Vagabond is no different in his love of the good, old fashioned road journey. In this episode, Allan catches up with Martin Goffriller who Zooms in from Mallorca in Spain. The conversation quickly gets into some of the finer details of Martin's epic Eurasian road adventure which started (in his mind he confesses) in Spain where he bought his beloved Toyota 4x4 and ended, well you'll just have to listen to find that out... Allan and Martin share some of the life lessons they learned through embarking on road trips, what to do, and especially what NOT to do when trying to cross borders.
S1 E8 · Wed, September 09, 2020
Consider Before You Depart - Your Life Can Be Your Art (part 2)
The Nostalgic Vagabond and Ulises Santamaria met at breakfast in a quirky little hostel in Budapest in October 2019. They formed an immediate connection while meandering among the historic city sights, enjoying pleasant conversation about travel, life, people and art. Allan was keen to touch base with Ulises at his home in Mexico, Zooming across the Atlantic during the uncertain days of the coronavirus pandemic. In conversation, they reflect on their brief stay in Hungary and ponder what effects past travel have had on their lives and how present and future travel may influence their lives and their art forms. Their discussions went deep on photography as an art form, particularly travel photography. The conversation was so engrossing that it went overtime and is split across two episodes... This is part deux-- Check out Ulises Santamaria's website:- ulisessantamaria.com
S1 E7 · Sun, September 06, 2020
Consider Before You Depart - Your Life Can Be Your Art (part 1)
The Nostalgic Vagabond and Ulises Santamaria met at breakfast in a quirky little hostel in Budapest in October 2019. They formed an immediate connection while meandering among the historic city sights, enjoying pleasant conversation about travel, life, people and art. Allan was keen to touch base with Ulises at his home in Mexico, Zooming across the Atlantic during the uncertain days of the coronavirus pandemic. In conversation, they reflect on their brief stay in Hungary and ponder what effects past travel have had on their lives and how present and future travel may influence their lives and their art forms. Their discussions went deep on photography as an art form, particularly travel photography. The conversation was so engrossing that it went overtime and is split across two episodes... This is part one--
S1 E6 · Sun, August 30, 2020
Distance Makes the Heart Grow Fonder - Something You Ever Wonder?
The Nostalgic Vagabond Zooms across the continent to talk with Ana Matušić in her home of Dubrovnik, Croatia. Ana and Allan met in Toronto way back in 2012 and have remained in touch ever since... Ana describes how her travels abroad have helped her discover herself, appreciate and love herself more, as well as her wonderful home and heritage. She is also a great contact to have whenever you want to visit beautiful Croatia.
S1 E5 · Sun, August 23, 2020
Talk About a Travel Career - This You Gotta Hear!
Travel guru Mark Bratt (@markbratttravel) remembers his days managing a hostel in New Zealand with his wife, Ruth. And he talks with the Nostalgic Vagabond about those chilled days, and adventures on Wandering Duck canal boat tours in the UK. Plus what it's like to start an independent travel company. Allan and Mark also consider how the coronavirus pandemic will influence travel, now and into the future.
S1 E4 · Sun, August 16, 2020
Stand Up Comedy and the Roadshow - Daniel Connell's in the Know
The Nostalgic Vagabond this time catches up with an old high school colleague from Batemans Bay, one and only, Aussie stand up comedian - Daniel Connell. Instagram:@daniel_connell_comedy Allan is curious to know some of the interesting places Dan has visited performing on tour both at home and overseas but also those other places, when off the clock, taking time out with his wife.
S1 E3 · Sun, August 09, 2020
Finding Your Place - It Helps to Start with a Base
This time the Nostalgic Vagabond Zooms from Liverpool across the Irish Sea to catch up with Tiziana Volpe in her natural habitat - Dublin. Allan and Tiziana discuss what it's like to move away, see the world, travel to many fine places, enjoy many wonderful experiences but end up settling somewhere different from where you grew up, perhaps at times feeling like the "black sheep" but finding your place on this planet. Being organised always helps but being spontaneous can present new possibilities.
S1 E2 · Sat, August 08, 2020
Working in Hostels and Teaching Abroad - Traveller Lifestyle that Pays Your Board
The Nostalgic Vagabond catches up with Chris Ascroft, an ol' friend and, once upon a time, the Activities Coordinator at a very popular hostel in Montreal. Chris has been obsessed with travel ever since he has been able to seek "greener pastures" and backpacking the world on various adventures, his preferred method for almost two decades. Allan and Chris share some of their experiences travelling; where to stay, which transportation to get there, what to pack, and how to find deodorant when you inevitably run out... Why? It's all part of the experience.
Fri, August 07, 2020
From California to the Trans-Siberian Railway - Travel Tips from the Legend that is Jay
The Nostalgic Vagabond and Jay Canning met on a bus en route to an infamous adventure in Yosemite National Park. This Californian experience forged a new course for both of them that set their individual lives on a new, tangential trajectory. Allan and Jay reflect on the past decade or so, and share stories of various journeys since those dreamy California days.
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