You should have been there

Simon goes to Sydney, newly-opened to the world and, of course, eager to welcome tourists. He gets free vegemite at the airport, roams the city to discover what is and isn't open yet and enjoys some of the city's simpler pleasures: a tram ride, a sunset walk across the iconic bridge and a trek through the Sydney Harbour National Park, where the suburbs, the sea and the outback meet. Thanks to Jane and Jim O'Donnell for taking part.   

Join us in the room where travel fears and phobias are brutally revealed. There's talk of vertigo, malaria and, more controversially, the constant concern that your flight will actually arrive on time. Honestly!  And we continue the discussion of travel breakfasts by unravelling the mystery of the "Big Rolls" 

Unapologetic self congratulation is in order as we pick our favourite extracts from the 99 previous podcasts.  On the menu: the epitome of slow travel, Graham Greene's little known travelogue and Simon's embarrassing experience on the Balham train, along with the evocative sounds of Andean flutes and a choir of cicadas. Plus, some inspirational journeys involving the number 100, which include "the sociopath's camino de Santiago."  Also, thanks to Syna-Max of Freesound for the recording of applause. 

This essential kick-start to the day's adventures or relaxation is often undervalued. From avocado on sourdough to stale bread and undrinkable coffee, we reminisce about breakfasts on the road and try and draw up an identikit menu of the ideal start to the travelling day. 

As the world of museums expands, quirkily, intriguingly and bafflingly, we discuss how to sort the wheat from the chaff and how to avoid a hangover from excessive viewing. Does Zagreb's Hangover Museum provide the answer? And we're joined by Jill Tsai, the founder of the Travel Things Museum (https://www.travelthingsmuseum.com)

We're joined by The Independent's Lucy Thackray for a discussion of this year's hot destinations and travel trends.  On the agenda: vegan hotels, work and playcations, sweat lodges or just a simple, old-fashioned Costa Rican sunset. And as the "Marble Arch Mound" closes down, what other ludicrous, white elephant tourist attractions does the world have to offer? 

Expect festive cheer and testing questions as Simon @simoncalder takes on Wanderlust Magazine's founding editor, Lyn Hughes @Wanderlust.Lyn See how you measure up against our travel experts and help decide the worthy winner! 

We hear listeners' responses to the last few podcasts and try to answer their questions. On the varied menu: Covid testing, the ethics of elephant riding, the new European railway timetable, very wild swimming and learning to cook pasta dishes in Bologna. Many thanks to all contributors, not least our special guest, Doctor Silas. 

Simon goes to Florida and returns with tales of manatees, space missions and roseate spoonbills. There's more to the sunshine state than theme parks, although he did sample (and survive) the terrifying velociocoaster. With many thanks to Simon Veness, Susan Veness, Jenna Pierce from the Imperial Bar and former astronaut, Bruce Melnick. 

We hear from listeners about Christmases past and make plans for Christmases future, Omicron variant permitting.  Plus, expedition of the week and travel rants from the town of Morpeth. Many thanks to Lizzie and Norma for taking part.