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If you’re looking for Netherlands hidden gems, this episode is your invitation to discover the country beyond Amsterdam. I’m joined by Rachel Heller, a longtime resident and Founder of Rachel's Ruminations, who shares what it’s really like to explore the Netherlands beyond the main stops. We talk about life in Groningen, visiting Amsterdam in a more thoughtful way, and why hopping on a bike outside the city might be one of the best things you do. Rachel also introduces lesser-known spots — like Bourtange and the historic towns of Friesland — that offer a quieter, more local feel. If you’re looking for a more meaningful way to experience the country, this episode will give you a few ideas.  And maybe shift how you think about visiting altogether. Want to chat more about the Netherlands? Send me a message at [email protected] In this episode: 1:07: Introducing Rachel Heller 3:50: Rachel’s Story 6:27: Placing the Netherlands on the map 7:13: Amsterdam 12:40: Bourtange, Friesland and Elfsteden 18:55: Cities near Amsterdam 20:05: Tulips & Windmills 26:36: Islands & Coastline 30:15: Favorite places 38:12: The Hauge & Rotterdam 40:10: Logistics & Tips 49:31: Take aways 53:05: Wrapping it up Important links:Rachel's RuminationsWorld Heritage TravelThe Netherlands Tourism Boat Bike ToursWander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Oofos Wander Your Way Resources Wander Your Way Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

What exactly is soft adventure? And how can you use it to explore Europe in a way that feels both meaningful and doable? In this episode, I’m diving into one of my favorite ways to travel — soft adventure — and sharing easy ways to explore Europe’s outdoors without needing to be an extreme hiker or adrenaline junkie.  This is about getting outside, soaking in the landscapes, and experiencing a place more deeply — all at a pace that actually feels good. I’ll walk you through what soft adventure really means — and why I love it so much — along with simple, accessible ways to bring more of it into your travels—sharing some of my own experiences along the way.  Think scenic walks, coastal paths, gentle hikes, time in nature, paired with local culture, great food, and those little moments of connection that make a trip unforgettable. I also share practical tips to help you plan your own soft adventure experiences in Europe — whether you’re brand new to spending time outdoors or just looking to add a bit more movement and fresh air into your itinerary. And if you’re feeling a little unsure? Don’t worry. We’re starting small and building from there. Because exploring Europe’s outdoors doesn’t have to be hard to be incredible. If you’re craving a trip that blends landscapes, culture, and connection—with just the right touch of adventure—this episode is for you. Want to chat more about soft adventure? Send me a note at [email protected] In this episode: 1:50: Intro 5:33: What is "soft adventure"? 9:27: Finding soft adventure 10:44: Cities & towns 12:32: Mountains 14:34: Coastal areas 16:40: Rivers & canals 18:01: Lakes & bays 21:50: Rural landscapes, forests & protected parks 25:24: Historical sites 27:20: Foraging & wildlife viewing 28:22: Defining soft adventure 31:11: Logistics & Tips 38:00: How I travel and why I love soft adventure travel 43:15: Wrapping it up Important links: Soft Adventure: The Wonderful Mix of Nature and Culture with The Wilderness Group Tips for Solo TravelWomen in Travel + Solo Travel Tips with Beth Santos Outdoors IrelandREI Wander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way Wander Your Way ResourcesWander Your Way Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I’m taking you to one of England’s most beautiful and underrated corners — the Yorkshire Dales. I share why this national park has been on my list for so long, why I finally made it there in 2025, and why I fell so hard for it.  From green valleys and windswept hills to charming villages, scenic drives, and easy walks, this is the kind of place that feels made for travelers who love nature, quieter destinations, a little culture, and a touch of soft adventure. We’ll explore some of the amazing things to do in the Yorkshire Dales, including walks to Malham Cove and Gordale Scar, time in villages like Grassington, Hawes, and Askrigg, and a visit to Bolton Castle.  I also share what it’s like to stay in places like Malham and Bainbridge — and why slowing down here is part of the magic. Plus, I cover the practical side of planning your trip, including where to stay, whether you need a car, and how to explore the Yorkshire Dales at your own pace. If you’ve ever thought England was just about cities and famous sights, this episode might just change your mind. Want to chat more about Yorkshire Dales? Email me at [email protected] In this episode:1:00: Intro 2:27: Placing Yorkshire Dales on the map 4:06: Learning about Yorkshire Dales 8:44: Malham and Malhamdale 17:14: Skipton & Grassington 21:55: Bainbridge & Wensleydale 27:40: Askrigg 28:37: Bolton Castle 32:50: Logistics & final thoughts 38:22: Wrapping it up Important links: Yorkshire Dales National Park Discovering the Diverse and Beautiful Peak District England Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Eagle Creek Wander Your Way Resources Holiday Cottages UK Map of Malham Cove The Kitchen at Beck Hall The Buck Inn Bolton Castle The Middle House  ★ Support this podcast ★

Curious about using AI to plan your trip to Europe? In this bonus episode, I share my honest take on using AI to plan your trip — where it can be helpful, where it can fall short, and why a little caution goes a long way. While tools like ChatGPT can be great for gathering ideas or sketching out a rough itinerary, they don’t always catch the nuances that come from real, on-the-ground experience. I walk through a real client example where AI missed a simple (and better) travel option, along with common pitfalls like outdated recommendations, closed sites, and logistics that don’t quite add up. You’ll also hear my thoughts on the bigger picture — how AI is shaping travel planning, the pros and cons of using AI to plan your trip, and why having a real human in your corner still matters when things don’t go as planned. If you’re thinking about using AI to plan your trip, this episode will help you do it smarter—so you can take advantage of the good without getting tripped up by the not-so-good. And if you decide you’d rather hand things over — or just want a second set of eyes on your plans — I’m always here to help. Want to chat more about this topic? Feel free to email me at [email protected]. In this episode:0:54: Intro 1:47: Ethical considerations of AI 2:42: Using AI for planning your trip 3:53: Some examples 5:18: More considerations in using AI 8:07: Wrapping it up Important links:Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures ★ Support this podcast ★

Got questions about traveling in Europe? I’ve got answers! And this month’s Listener Q&A features two fantastic ones from Luana. She’s heading to Europe for the first time this summer and wrote this:"I am going to Europe for the first time this year in summer! Due to it being our first time a little over half of our trip is large/famous cities. So, understanding it will be very busy in these cities (Venice, Rome, Barcelona, Athens) are there any recommendations you have for making our experience smoother/more enjoyable in the crowds?" So in this episode, I share some practical tips to help you navigate peak season with a bit more ease — from when to visit popular sites to how to find quieter corners and build in breaks so you can actually enjoy the experience.  Her second question takes us in the opposite direction:“Do you have any off-the-beaten-path locations you would recommend in winter?”  I love this one.  We dive into why some destinations are actually better in the off-season, along with ideas for quieter regions, smaller towns, and even how to rethink those big-name cities when the crowds disappear.  If you’ve ever wondered how to handle Europe in the height of summer — or where to go when things slow down — this episode is full of thoughtful insights to help you travel Europe your way.  And if you’ve got a question you’d like me to answer in a future episode, head over to wanderyourway.com/podcast and submit it.  I just might feature it next. Note: These Listener Q&A episodes don’t have a companion blog post, so you’ll only find this one in your favorite podcast app. Happy listening! Important links: Listener Question Form Wander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way Wander Your Way Resources 12 of My Favorite Amazing European Cities Tips for Traveling Off the Main Tourist Track 5 Reasons Why Travel to Europe in Winter is a Sensational Idea ★ Support this podcast ★

Ireland has a way of getting under your skin. In this special St. Patrick’s Day episode, I’m sharing 12 of my favorite places in Ireland — the spots that have truly stayed with me long after I left. Some are well known, others are wonderfully under-the-radar. But every single one offers that unmistakable mix that I love of stunning landscapes, deep history, and a bit of Irish magic. From windswept beaches and sacred peaks to ancient stone circles and dramatic coastal headlands, these are places that made me stop, take a breath, and think “wow… this is why I travel.” We’ll climb to the summit of Croagh Patrick, wander through the haunting beauty of Doolough Valley, stand among the ancient stones of Loughcrew Cairn and Beltany Stone Circle, and soak up the rugged Atlantic energy at places like Silver Strand, Glassilaun Beach, Mizen Head, and Malin Head. Along the way, I’ll share personal stories from the trail — including a memorable hike up Diamond Hill in Connemara, time spent exploring Killarney National Park and the Gap of Dunloe, and visits to some of Ireland’s most memorable small places like Kenmare and the beaches near Dunfanaghy in County Donegal. If you love discovering places that feel a little more untamed, a little quieter, and deeply connected to Ireland’s landscape and history, this episode is for you. So pour yourself a cup of tea (or perhaps a pint of Guinness or a wee dram of whiskey) and come wander through 12 unforgettable places in Ireland that might just inspire your next trip. Want to chat more about these amazing places in Ireland? Send me a message at [email protected]. In this episode: 1:47: Intro 6:19: Loughcrew Cairns 11:10: Malin Head 14:19: Tramore 17:43: Beltany Stone Circle 22:13: Croagh Patrick Peak 27:49: Silver Strand Beach 31:04: Doo Lough Valley 33:37: Killarney National Park & Gap of Dunloe 37:01: Kenmare 39:56: Diamond Hill 42:41: Glassilaun Beach 45:53: Mizen Head 48:35: Recap 49:45: Wrapping it up Important links: 5 Reasons Loughcrew Cairns Is One of the Best Sites in Ireland Loughcrew Megalithic Cemetery Best Things To Do in The Beautiful County Donegal Ireland The Fun and Magic of Tramore Beach The Ancient Mystery of Beltany Stone Circle Croagh Patrick 9 Sensational Things You Need To Do in Westport Ireland Silver Strand • Ireland Doolough Ireland: A Beautiful Valley with a Tragic History 7 Best Things To Do in Killarney National Park Ireland Walking The Stunningly Beautiful Gap Of Dunloe In County Kerry Ireland Kenmare • Ireland Connemara National Park6 Excellent Tips for Hiking the Stunning Diamond Hill in Ireland 16 Amazing Things To Do in County Galway Ireland Why You Need to Visit Mizen Head — the Most Beautiful Peninsula in Ireland Mizen Head Experience Wander Your  WayWander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way Resources Tasc Clothing ★ Support this podcast ★

Long-distance trails have a way of capturing our imagination. Whether it’s hiking across a national park, cycling through stunning countryside, or tackling a multi-day adventure somewhere in Europe, these kinds of journeys can feel both exciting and a little intimidating. In this episode of the Wander Your Way podcast, I’m joined by Becki Rupp of Trailblazer Wellness. Becki is an adventure coach and personal trainer who helps people prepare — physically and mentally — for long-distance hiking and cycling adventures. She shares how she found her own path into adventure travel and coaching. And why preparation can make all the difference when you’re taking on long-distance hikes or trails. We talk about practical ways to train for long-distance hikes, including how to gradually build distance, why downhill training matters just as much as the climbs, and how getting comfortable in different weather conditions can help build resilience on the trail. Becki also shares insight into the emotional side of these journeys. How time spent on a trail can offer space for reflection, healing, and personal growth. If you’ve ever dreamed about tackling long-distance hikes but aren’t sure where to begin, this conversation will give you plenty of helpful tips and encouragement. From training advice to mindset shifts, Becki offers practical guidance to help make those big adventure dreams feel a lot more achievable. We also chat about the different ways you can approach long-distance hiking — from going solo to joining a group or working with a tour operator who can help handle logistics along the way. If the idea of spending days immersed in nature, moving through incredible landscapes, and challenging yourself in new ways appeals to you, this episode is for you. Because the truth is… it’s never too late to start your own adventure. Want to chat more about long distance hikes, walks or cycles? Send me a note at [email protected] In this episode: 0:53: Intro 4:30: Introducing Becki 6:07: Becki’s story 11:40: Tips for physical training 16:58: Tips for mental training 25:42: Advice for hesitancy 29:02: Favorite trails 34:57: Becki’s services 41:45: Final tips & thoughts 49:15: Wrapping it up with Becki 50:56: Wrapping it up Important links:Trailblazer Wellness Walking the West Highland Way • Scotland Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Resources Patagonia ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I’m taking you to Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, England — one of the most magnificent country estates in all of Britain and absolutely worth your time. I’ll share why Blenheim Palace isn’t just another stately home, but a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with history, drama, and architectural wow moments.  From its sweeping Baroque design to its jaw-dropping interiors, this place is grand in every sense of the word. Of course, we’ll talk about its connection to Sir Winston Churchill — who was born here — and what you can expect from the exhibitions dedicated to his life and legacy.  But Blenheim Palace is so much more than Churchill.  I’ll walk you through the state rooms, the long library, the formal gardens, the landscaped parkland, and those iconic views that make you stop and just stare for a minute. I’ll also share why I think you should plan to spend a full day here (yes, a full day), along with practical tips on timing your visit, how to approach the palace and grounds, and how to make the most of your time. If you love history through travel, grand architecture, gorgeous gardens, and places that feel both regal and deeply human, then Blenheim Palace deserves a spot on your England itinerary. Let’s wander through one of England’s most impressive estates together. Want to chat more about Blenheim Palace? Send me a note at [email protected] In this episode: 0:45: Intro 1:53: Placing Blenheim Palace on the map 3:31: Palace history 5:35: Pricing 7:06: Things to see in Blenheim Palace 14:49: The palace grounds 21:05: Final thoughts and tips 26:58: Wrapping it up Important links: Blenheim Palace Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources REI ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Listener Q&A episode, I’m answering a great question from Susan: What’s the best type of accommodation for a trip to Europe?  From hotels and guest houses to apartments, cottages, and even hostels, the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all.  It really depends on your travel style, budget, length of stay and who you’re traveling with.  I share some practical guidelines to help you decide when a hotel makes the most sense (especially in bigger cities), when a B&B or guest house can give you that more local feel, and why apartments or self-catering stays can be ideal for groups, families or longer visits. I also talk about finding locally owned places using regional booking sites and tourism boards. And I remind you to think about where your travel dollars go.  Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple or with a group, this short, info-packed episode will help you choose accommodations that fit your trip. And maybe even make it more memorable. Note: These Listener Q&A episodes don’t have a companion blog post, so you’ll only find this one in your favorite podcast app. Happy listening! Important links: Accommodation in Europe • Types & Tips Listener Question Form Wander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way Wander Your Way Resources ★ Support this podcast ★

We all have those destinations we think we know. And then we get there and they completely win us over. In this episode, I’m sharing a handful of places that surprised me in the very best way. These are spots around Europe that went beyond my expectations and left a bigger impression than I ever imagined. I’m talking about everything from the wild, rugged beauty of Ireland’s west coast to the storybook charm of York in England. And yes, even Paris made this list because sometimes the most iconic places still manage to surprise you. There are mountain regions that stole my heart, quieter corners that felt more magical than expected, and a few destinations that simply stayed with me long after I left. This is a personal look at expectations vs. reality — and how some of the best travel moments happen when a place catches you off guard. It’s also a reminder to leave a little room for the unexpected when you’re planning your own European adventure. So now I’m curious… what are the places that surprised you in the best possible way? Send me a note at [email protected] In this episode: 2:15: Intro 7:06: Ireland: County Donegal & West Cork 11:19: Paris, France 14:27: South Tyrol, Italy 17:20: Slovenia 20:24: Isle of Mull, Scotland 23:51: York, England 27:02: Krün, Germany 30:25: Peak District, England 33:31: Normandy, France 36:49: St Andrews, Scotland 41:42: Recap 42:20: Wrapping it up Important links: County Dongel • Ireland West Cork • Ireland Rainbow Weather: Exploring Beautiful West Cork Ireland with Kat Koch The Best Things To Do in Paris in 4 Days My Joyful Love Affair with the Beautiful and Diverse South Tyrol Italy Slovenia • An Overview Isle of Mull • Scotland York • England Black Forest & Bavaria • Germany Discovering the Diverse and Beautiful Peak District England Exploring Beautiful Normandy, France: Going Beyond the D-Day Beaches Exploring St Andrews • Scotland with Bo Fraser Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources Oofos ★ Support this podcast ★

Travel becomes something entirely different when you understand the stories beneath your feet. And in this episode, I’m joined by Jackie Lapin, founder of The Historic Traveler, to explore exactly how history and travel intertwine in the most meaningful ways. In this conversation about history through travel, Jackie shares how her love of travel began just after college and how an early fascination with history — sparked during childhood and nurtured through years of reading — shaped the way she experiences the world. From Ireland to Pompeii, she explains why knowing the context of a place transforms a visit from interesting into unforgettable. We also talk about Jackie’s approach to blending books and travel, including how historical novels, biographies, and audiobooks can deepen your connection to the places you visit. She shares why reading before you go changes what you notice once you arrive, and how learning through story makes history through travel feel accessible rather than overwhelming. If you’ve ever felt drawn to historic places but weren’t sure how to truly connect with them, this episode will inspire you to slow down, look closer, and travel with deeper curiosity and understanding. Want to chat more about history through travel? Email me at [email protected]. In this episode: 0:40: Intro 1:35: Introducing Jackie Lapin 4:35: Jackie's Story 14:45: Book directory & offerings 24:56: Experiences through history 28:08: Favorite sites 31:13: Historic hotels 32:34: Other favorites 43:15: Final tips & thoughts 47:10: Wrapping it up 53:39: Listener review Important links: The Historic Traveler Nord VPN Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources ★ Support this podcast ★

Normandy France is often synonymous with the D-Day beaches. And for good reason. But this remarkable region offers far more than its powerful World War II history.  In this episode, I invite you to look beyond the shoreline and discover the quieter, richer layers of Normandy that many travelers miss. Alongside reflections on visiting the D-Day beaches — including a deeply moving guided tour that brings the history to life with care, context, and respect — I also share why Normandy’s culture and landscapes left such a lasting impression on me.  From creamy local cheeses and crisp apples to coastal views and rural countryside dotted with small towns, Normandy is a place that rewards those who slow down and wander a little further. This episode is about honoring history while also embracing the present-day heart of the region — its people, its flavors, and its sense of place.  If you’re planning a trip to France, or simply curious about what lies beyond the most well-known sites, this episode offers inspiration for traveling through Normandy in a more meaningful, connected way. Want to chat about Normandy, France? Email me at [email protected] In this episode: 1:10: Intro & Updates 6:08: Intro to Normandy France 6:34: Placing Normandy France on the map 8:36: Food of Normandy 12:16: Places to visit and stay 14:59: D-Day Beaches & surrounding areas 24:49: Gold Beach & British War Memorial 30:17: Moving inland: Bayeux, Espins, Clécy 43:40: Falaise 53:06: Final thoughts on Normandy 56:57: Listener review + Wrapping it up In this episode:Normandy France TourismWander Your WayWander Your Way AdventuresOverlord Tours Vuori Falaise Castle Falaise Memorial Museum ★ Support this podcast ★

It’s a birthday episode 🎉 — and a milestone one at that.  This short and sweet listener Q&A marks 5 years of the Wander Your Way podcast, recorded and released on my birthday (because why not?).  I’m officially in a new decade, still young at heart, and celebrating with reflection, gratitude — and yes, a little bubbly. In this very first Q&A episode, I answer a practical (and very common) Europe travel question: Should you exchange money before you leave home or wait until you arrive?  I break down the smart, stress-free approach to cash, ATMs, credit cards, and how things have changed since COVID. Plus a few important tips to help you avoid bad exchange rates and unnecessary fees. These new Q&A episodes are designed to be quick, helpful and to the point — bite-sized travel wisdom to make planning your Europe trip easier. Have a question you want answered in a future episode? Fill out the form right here. Until next time… happy travels (and happy birthday to me). 🥂 Important links: Tips on Handling Money in Europe3 Quick Tips for Planning Your Trip to Europe: Show Me the Money! Listener Question Form Wander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way Wander Your Way Resources ★ Support this podcast ★

In this milestone episode, I’m celebrating 5 amazing years of the Wander Your Way podcast. And I'm reflecting on the journey that started during the COVID pandemic and grew into a space for curious, independent Europe travelers. To mark the anniversary, I’m sharing my 5 favorite travel experiences — moments that shaped not only how I travel, but why.  From my very first trip to Spain, to standing in awe inside Notre Dame Cathedral, to the electric atmosphere of The Open Championship in Scotland, these stories span cities, mountains, and deeply personal moments. I also reflect on my love for the dramatic landscapes of the Dolomites, the transformative experience of walking the West Highland Way, and the lasting memories I made traveling through Ireland with my parents — a powerful reminder that travel isn’t just about where you go, but who you share it with. So I’ll leave you with this question — what are some of your favorite and most memorable travel experiences? If you feel like sharing, I’d love to hear them. You can email me at [email protected] And if you’re up for it, let me know. I may read one or two on a future episode of the podcast. In this episode: 0:53: Intro 5:55: Bonus: Andalucía, Spain 8:56: Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris 11:38: The Open Championship at Royal Troon, Scotland 15:51: Dolomite Peaks, Italy 19:30: West Highland Way, Scotland 24:05: Three Weeks in Ireland 28:30: Wrapping it up Important links: The Best Things To Do in Paris in 4 Days Notre Dame Paris Tips for Attending a Sporting Event in Europe + My Experience at The Open Championship Overview of the Dolomites • Italy Visit the DolomitesWalking the West Highland Way Scotland West Highland Way County Clare • Ireland Podcast Listener form Battleface Insurance Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Resources ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I’m sharing my experience exploring the Peak District, England — a place I truly fell in love with.  From dramatic limestone edges and sweeping views to rolling green hills dotted with sheep (soooo many sheep), quiet walking trails, and storybook villages, the Peak District completely won me over.  In fact, I loved it so much that it’s very likely making its way onto a future Wander Your Way Adventures itinerary. I talk about what makes the Peak District so special — how the landscapes shift from one area to the next and why it’s such a rewarding destination for travelers who enjoy walking, nature, and a slower pace of exploration.  I also touch on the region’s incredible stately homes — including the iconic Chatsworth House — for those who want to pair beautiful scenery with history, architecture and a glimpse into England’s past. If you’re dreaming of visiting the Peak District, England, curious about why it left such an impression on me, or simply love hearing about places that feel both grounding and inspiring, this episode is for you. Want to chat more about the Peak District? Message me at [email protected] In this episode:1:10: Intro and thanks 3:45: Placing the Peak District on the map 4:40: Things to know about the Peak District 11:00: Trails 26:26: Chatsworth House & historic sites 30:05: Bakewell & other towns 34:26: Where to stay and eat 37:31: Getting there & around 39:12: More tips 41:23: Final thoughts 44:40: Wrapping it up Important links:Peak District National Park Peak District Chatsworth House Brosterfield Farm Manor House Farm Hilltop Farm Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Resources Listener Question Form Patagonia ★ Support this podcast ★