The Travel Diaries

Today we’re diving into the heart of the Island of Ireland, its Legends and Landscapes, where every cliff, hill and glen whispers stories from a time long past. To get there is just a short flight or ferry ride from Great Britain, and yet arriving can feel like stepping into another world of history, mystery and breathtaking beauty. As Halloween approaches, there's no better time to delve into Ireland's ancient traditions. Did you know that the Island of Ireland is the birthplace of Halloween? It originates from the Celtic festival of Samhain, which marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter and even today the spirit of Samhain lingers, with festivals and celebrations that pay homage to the old ways.To help us explore some more of Ireland’s incredible locations and the stories behind them, I’m joined by John O'Ceallaigh, one of our best loved travel journalists and editors, and an Ireland native from Galway on the west coast of Ireland. John’s deep connection to his country, and his experience writing about it, makes him the perfect guide for our journey today. We’re going to hear his Irish travel diaries today, from the wild beauty of Connemara and charming village of Roundstone to the Wild Atlantic Way’s luxurious coastal castles, and windswept islands, like Aran and Achill, taking in the sights, tastes and sounds along the way because of course Ireland is a feast for all senses. Brought to you in partnership with Tripadvisor and Tourism Ireland, whether you're planning your next adventure or simply dreaming of distant shores, let this episode be your gateway to Ireland’s legendary landscapes.Destination Recap: Connemara, Co. GalwayRoundstoune, Co. GalwayAran Islands, Co. GalwayPuca Festival, Co. Meath - around the time of Samhain each year (October 31) Ballynahinch Castle, Co. Galway Ashford Castle, Co. Mayo Wild Atlantic Way driving routeCounty KerryCarrauntoohil, County KerryKerry to Cork, Wild Atlantic Way driving route Beara Peninsula, Cork English Market, Cork CityBallymaloe House Hotel, Co. Cork Adare Manor, Co. Limerick Park Hotel Kinmare, Co. Kerry Kai, Co. Galway Ard Bia at Nimmos, GalwayAniar, Galway Lignum, Galway Skellig Michael, Co. Kerry Skellig Beag, Co. Kerry Achill Island, Co. MayoWexford, Co. WexfordRock of Cashel, Co. Tipperary Newgrange, Co. Meath If you'd like to find out more about the Island of Ireland and source some more inspiration for a future trip, then head over to Tripadvisor's Ireland page - it has some brilliant guides on landscape, culture and gastronomy.Thanks so much for listening today!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest needs little introduction in the world of food and travel journalism, a renowned restaurant critic, a writer whose words can make your mouth water, and a familiar face on TV—many of you will recognise him from his appearances as a judge on MasterChef. It is of course Jay Rayner.Jay’s is a name synonymous with gastronomic excellence. As a long-time food critic for The Observer, he's sampled and critiqued some of the best, and worst, dining experiences around the globe. Beyond his razor-sharp reviews, he’s a celebrated author, his books like "The Man Who Ate the World" and "My Dining Hell” offering a deeper look into the intersections of food, culture, and travel. And he’s back with a new book, “Nights Out at Home, Recipes and Stories from 25 years as a restaurant critic". And he reflects on these years, and the 1000s restaurants he’s visited on today’s episode. I interviewed him a few weeks ago on the South Bank in London and I loved getting a glimpse into the world of reviewing restaurants, how it works, his tips on what to order when travelling, and the culinary destinations that have stood out to him, lots of restaurant recommendations as you might expect, so don’t forget they’re all included in the episode show notes here on your podcast app, and on the podcast website too. Holly’s Destination Recap:- Son Bunyola, Mallorca, SpainJay’s Destination Recap:Cromer, Norfolk, EnglandKnoll House Hotel, Studland Bay, EnglandErst, Manchester, England Gloriosa, Glasgow, Scotland Tayyabs, London, England Bentley’s, London, England Fallow, London, England Otto’s, London, England The Dining Room, The Ritz Hotel, England Takahashi, London, England Good Old Days, Reading, England Cubo, Birmingham, England Greece & Turkey backpacking Syros, Greece New York, USARuss & Daughters, NY, USAThe Fat Duck, Bray, England Wheelers, Whitstable, England Whitstable, England             Julian, California, USASteamboat, Oregon, USASylvia Beach Hotel, Oregon, USACastle Elvira, Puglia, Italy         The Maybourne Riviera, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France Moscow, Russia New ZealandAustralia“Nights Out at Home, Recipes and Stories from 25 years as a restaurant critic” is out now. Thanks so much for listening today. If you'd like to hear more from the podcast don’t forget to hit subscribe, or if you use Apple Podcasts to press follow so that a new episode lands in your podcast app each week. If you want to be the first find out who is joining me on next week’s episode come and follow me on Instagram I’m @hollyrubenstein, and you’ll also find me on TikTok - I’d love to hear from you. And if you can't want until then remember there’s the first 12 seasons to catch up on, that's over 125 episodes to keep you busy there. Don't forget that all the destinations mentioned by my guests are included in the episode show notes here on your podcast app, and listed on my website, thetraveldiariespodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Season 13 of The Travel Diaries! I’m so excited to be kicking it off with the multi-talented presenter, actor, comedian, singer, and writer, Alexander Armstrong.Most of you will know Alexander as the host of the long-running BBC quiz show Pointless, but this is just the tip of the iceberg. He’s had an incredible journey through comedy, starting with his breakout role in Armstrong and Miller, the comedy duo sketch show that gave us some unforgettable characters. He’s a classically trained singer with several albums under his belt. He’s fronted many fascinating travel documentaries. For the parents listening, you probably recognise his voice from iconic children’s shows like Hey Duggee, Peppa Pig and Ben & Holly. He’s now a children’s author too, with his novel Evenfall: The Golden Linnet, out now. We spoke a few weeks back in a suite at the beautiful Kensington Hotel and he couldn’t have been more charming. Relentlessly positive and so passionate about travel.Destination Recap: Magilligan, Northern IrelandAlnick, Sonnet, Dunstanburgh Castle, Wooler - Northumberland, EnglandFlorence, ItalyReykjavik, Iceland Edinburgh, Scotland Sri Lanka Galle, Sri Lanka Jaffna, Sri LankaDatai Langkawi, Malaysia St LuciaAdriatic boat trip"Evenfall: The Golden Linnet" by Alexander Armstrong is out now.*COMPETITION* - I’ve partnered with the stunning Eliamos hotel in Kefalonia to offer you a two-night stay in one of their gorgeous one-bedroom villas, with breakfast included and a spa treatment included for each guest. For your chance to win, just head over to my Instagram, @hollyrubenstein, where all the details are waiting for you!With thanks to my sponsors today - Citalia - Discover the real Italy with Citalia, the UK’s leading Italian holiday specialists. Let the Italy Experts craft the perfect holiday for you and experience Italy like a Citalian.Airbnb - Visit Airbnb.com and find out more. Prospective Hosts can learn more about how much they can earn sharing their space through the What’s My Place Worth ToolIf you'd like to hear more from the podcast don’t forget to hit subscribe, or if you use Apple Podcasts to press follow so that a new episode lands in your podcast app each week. If you want to be the first find out who is joining me on next week’s episode come and follow me on Instagram I’m @hollyrubenstein, and you’ll also find me on Twitter and TikTok as of a few weeks ago, also @hollyrubenstein - I’d love to hear from you. And if you can't want until then remember there’s the first 12 seasons to catch up on, that's over 125 episodes to keep you busy there. Don't forget that all the destinations mentioned by my guests are included in the episode show notes here on your podcast app, and listed on my website, thetraveldiariespodcast.com See you next week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello and welcome to today’s summer season finale of The Travel Diaries. Today, we have a very special guest joining us, the lovely Lisa Faulkner, a multi-talented actress, presenter, and chef, who has graced our screens for over two decades.Born in London, Lisa’s journey into the limelight began at the tender age of 16 when she was scouted by a modelling agency. Her career quickly transitioned from modelling to acting, where she built a reputation for her compelling and versatile performances in shows like Holby City and Eastenders, before winning the hearts of viewers as the champion of "Celebrity MasterChef" back in 2010. Not only did the show see Lisa reinvent herself as a TV chef and author of several best-selling cookbooks - she also met her now husband, Masterchef judge, and former guest of The Travel Diaries John Torode, and together they are now the hosts of John & Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen on ITV.Lisa is an avid traveler with a deep love for exploring new cultures and cuisines. Her travels have taken her to the far corners of the globe, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the wild landscapes of Western Australia. Uncovering hidden culinary gems and soaking in the rich history of her favourite destinations, Lisa’s travel diaries take us from Paris and Greece, to Japan, Vietnam, Australia and beyond. Destination recap:Ikos Resort, Thessaloniki, GreeceParis, FranceJapanKyoto, JapanHo Chi Minh, City, VietnamWestern Australia Margaret River, Western Australia Alberta’s, Busselton, Western Australia Dubai, UAEWesterns Laundry, London, England Nashville, Tennessee, USAYou can catch Lisa exploring Western Australia on John and Lisa’s Food Trip Down Under - the full series is now available to watch on ITVX.And that’s a wrap for Season 12. I'll be back towards the end of September with Season 13, and lots more brilliant guests, and destination specials!To celebrate today’s season finale, I also have a fabulous competition running on my Instagram page @hollyrubenstein where you can win a 2 night stay at Bodmin Jail Hotel in Cornwall, one of the most unique hotels in England. Good luck!Wishing you all a fantastic rest of your summer (or winter, depending on where you are listening!) and wherever you’re heading, safe travels.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ed Jackson, a former professional rugby player turned adventurer, shares his incredible journey following a life-changing accident in 2017. He discusses his documentary, "The Mountain Within Me," which captures his inspiring climb back to health and the emotional battles faced along the way. Ed highlights the healing power of nature and community, recounts achievements like climbing Mount Snowdon and the Matterhorn, and emphasizes the importance of helping others during recovery. His story celebrates resilience, the joy of unexpected adventures, and the transformative magic of travel.

Today, we’re embarking on an enchanting journey to amazing Austria. Picture lush Alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers under a clear blue sky, the invigorating scent of pine forests, the gentle sound of cowbells ringing in the distance. Now, imagine a winter scene, where pristine slopes invite skiers of all ages and levels, and charming villages twinkle with festive lights and the aroma of mulled wine. Austria’s beauty is truly a year-round spectacle.Today, we are diving deep into the soul of Austria, exploring not just its stunning sights but also its unique Lebensgefühl which translates in english as “the sense of life” - that unmistakable feeling of joy and contentment that is so integral to the Austrian way of life. From relaxing in world-class spas and thermal baths to hiking through majestic Alpine pastures, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture and music scene, to outdoor activities that cater to every age, Austria’s Lebensgefühl will be our guiding theme today.To help us uncover the many layers of this extraordinary country, we have two fantastic guests. First, I’m thrilled to welcome Marina Fogle. Marina is the co-founder of The Bump Class, a renowned antenatal class provider, and the voice behind The Parent Hood Podcast. She is also the wife of TV presenter Ben Fogle. Marina has a special connection to Austria, spending many holidays there with her family, thanks to her Austrian heritage. She brings a wealth of personal anecdotes and insider tips that promise to give us a heartfelt glimpse into Austrian life.Our second guest is Becki Enright, a distinguished travel journalist and Austria expert, who wrote the Vienna chapter of the Austria’s Lonely Planet guide and who calls Vienna her home. Becki’s extensive travels and deep-rooted knowledge of Austria make her the perfect guide to introduce us to the country’s hidden gems, cultural highlights, and must-see regions.So, settle in and get ready to be transported to Austria, a land where natural beauty meets cultural richness, and every moment is infused with the joy of living. Destination Show notes Marina Fogle -Schlenken mountain, SalzburgSchmittenstein mountain, SalzburgSalzkammergut, Salzburg Lake Fuschl, SalzkammergutArlberg MassifSalzburgBecki Enright - Vienna Liechtensteinklamm, St. Johann im PongauEisriesenwelt, WerfenArea 47, Tirol Salzkammergut, Salzburg Hallstatt, Upper AustriaAttersee, Upper AustriaWolfgangsee, Upper AustriaTraunsee, Upper AustriaAquadome, TirolRogner Bad Blumau, Styrian Wine Road Bad Ischl, Salzkammergut, Upper AustriaBregenzerwald, VorarlbergFor more information about Austria head to austria.infoThanks so much for listening today. If you'd like to hear more from the podcast don’t forget to hit subscribe, or if you use Apple Podcasts to press follow so that a new episode lands in your podcast app each week. If you want to be the first find out who is joining me on next week’s episode come and follow me on Instagram and TikTok - I’d love to hear from you. And if you can't want until then remember there’s the first 11 seasons to catch up on, that's over 125 episodes to keep you busy there. Don't forget that all the destinations mentioned by my guests are included in the episode show notes here on your podcast app, and listed on my website, thetraveldiariespodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andi Oliver, a multi-talented dynamo, talks about her Antiguan heritage, challenges faced in the UK, favorite dishes, and culinary inspirations. They discuss destinations like Limassol, Cyprus, Suffolk, England, Antigua, and more. The episode covers the exploration of identity through travel, personal journey through music, food, and advocacy, and a chaotic journey to Thailand on a budget flight.

It’s the Season 11 finale and to celebrate we’ve got a cosmic treat for you as we rocket into the mesmerising realm of space with the legendary British astronaut Tim Peake. A Space Destination Special, if you will - though we do cover some destinations here on planet earth, too, of course!Tim honed his skills as a test pilot and helicopter pilot in the British Army Air Corps. After nearly 18 years of military service, he spotted an ad from the European Space Agency (ESA) to become an astronaut. After a rigorous selection process with over 8,000 hopefuls, Tim was chosen as one of ESA's astronauts in 2009, marking the beginning of his journey to the stars.Fast forward to 2015, and Tim's dream of spaceflight became a reality as he launched aboard a spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS). During his six-month mission he conducted over 250 scientific experiments and became the first British astronaut in history to perform a spacewalk.It’s not every day that you get the opportunity to interview an astronaut, and there was so much I wanted to ask Tim, specifically about space, that I’ve cut down the chapters format this week, we’re going through the five chapters of his travel diaries. This was one of the most fascinating interviews I’ve had the pleasure of hosting on the podcast. Among many things we cover the claustrophobic Subterranean cave training in Sardinia that prepared him for life on the space station, we deep dive into his take on the existence of extra terrestrial life, he shares his views on the future of space tourism, and the innovations that are just around the corner taking place on the space station that could revolutionise healthcare, but most interesting I found was his view of the earth and how that in turn has fuelled his wanderlust. I really hope you enjoy this one. Destination Recap: Briançon, South of France Sardinia, Italy Alaska, USAPrince William Sound, Alaska, USADenali National Park, Alaska, USAInternational Space StationSahara DesertPatagoniaMadagascar BahamasSpaceNepalIndonesia Fancy seeing Tim live? He is heading on tour with his show Astronauts: The Quest To Explore Space which will bring the awe and wonder of space travel past, present and future to 25 venues across England, Scotland and Wales this autumn.As thank you to you my lovely listeners, I have one more rather epic competition for you to enter. This is to win a stay at one of the most iconic British hotels, Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in the beautiful New Forest in England. Head over to my Instagram @hollyrubenstein to find out how to win an irresistible Eat, Sleep, Retreat overnight stay with a spa treatment, lunch, three course dinner, and breakfast the next morning. I’m so excited for this one, good luck.With thanks to my sponsors today - Airbnb - Visit Airbnb.com and find out more. Prospective Hosts can learn more about how much they can earn sharing their space through the What’s My Place Worth Tool. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today’s bonus Destination Special episode, we are heading to the sun-soaked Mediterranean archipelago that is Magnificent Malta.Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, about 3 hours direct flight from England, Malta is a stunning island nation with a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Imagine rugged cliffs overlooking crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches framed by ancient fortresses, and bustling towns adorned with colourful balconies and cobblestone streets. Geographically, Malta is composed of three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Each island has its own distinct character which we discover on our episode today with the help of someone who is perfectly placed to bring Malta to life. Uwern Jong is a journalist, editor and inclusive-tourism advocate, who co-founded OutThere magazine, a luxury travel magazine and essential resource for LGBTQ+ travellers, nearly 15 years ago. We head on a journey from the bustling capital city of Valletta with its UNESCO-listed fortifications to the tranquil countryside of Gozo and the serene beaches of Comino. Whether you're a film aficionado, a foodie, an adventurer, or simply looking to soak up the sun on a stunning beach, Malta has something for everyone. So join us as we uncover the hidden gems, local secrets, and unforgettable experiences that make this island nation truly magnificent.Destination Recap:Cugo Gran Macina Malta hotel Valletta Three Cities St. Julian'sGozoThe Blue Lagoon CominoIniala Harbour House hotelIon at Harbour House restaurant Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz Malta, Gozo Thirtyseven hotel, GozoSeafood Beach Shack, MġarrMdina Rabat Ancient Ruins, Gozo and Malta island If you’re now desperate to find out more about Malta, don’t forget all of your favourite travel publications will have guides online, as will the tourist board website, which is always a great resource, which is visitmalta.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today’s episode I’m joined by a titan of the travel industry, Yolanda Edwards.Formerly the creative director of Condé Nast Traveler in the US, Yolanda went on to launch the critically acclaimed Yolo Journal, a quarterly travel lifestyle magazine, which showcases real finds from interesting people around the world, not just industry insiders. Its accompanied by a weekly newsletter, which is a huge favourite among in the know travel lovers.She also has the prestigious title of US and Canada Academy Chair for the World’s 50 Best Hotels which we discuss a bit on this episode - as a hotel enthusiast it was really fascinating to hear which properties stand out to her. The story behind Yolanda falling in love with travel is a really interesting one that I didn’t know before this chat. She had a sheltered childhood where travel really wasn’t on the agenda, and it was a transformative cultural immersion program on a remote Greek island where Yolanda’s innate curiosity and love for travel was truly ignited. And the rest you could say was history, as nowadays Yolanda is non stop travelling the globe. Her travel diaries today take us on a grand tour around Europe through the highlights and hidden gems of Italy, France and Greece. So fasten your seatbelts as we explore the fascinating life and career of a true travel trailblazer.Destination Recap: Rome, Italy Milan, Italy Mykonos, Greece Kalymnos, Greece Medoc, France Il Pelicano, Port Ecole, ItalyLa Colombe D’Or, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, FranceCap Ferret, France Lynch-Bages, Frane Tulum, Mexico Palazzo Durazzo, Genoa, Italy IndiaCheck out YOLO Journal and follow Yolanda on Instagram here. With thanks to my sponsors today - Citalia - Discover the real Italy with Citalia, the UK’s leading Italian holiday specialists. Let the Italy Experts craft the perfect holiday for you and experience Italy like a Citalian.Airbnb - Visit Airbnb.com and find out more. Prospective Hosts can learn more about how much they can earn sharing their space through the What’s My Place Worth Tool. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.