Advertise on podcast: Wander Your Way: Europe Travel Your Way

What if where you stayed actually changed the way you traveled? For several weeks this summer, I tried house sitting in England, piecing together three different dog sits as I traveled through the southern part of the country.  Along the way, I spent time in places I might never have visited otherwise, from rural Hampshire and Winchester to Bradford on Avon and Axbridge. In this episode, I’m sharing what house sitting is really like, how I made it work without a car, and some of the new places I discovered along the way. I’ll also talk about the benefits — and responsibilities — of house and pet sitting and why it can be an interesting way to travel longer, spend less on accommodations and experience a destination a little more like a local. If you love dogs (or cats or any other animals), slower travel and discovering places beyond Europe’s usual stops, house sitting might just be another way to Wander Your Way. Want to chat more about pet sitting or any of these destinations? Send me a message at [email protected]. In this episode:1:40: Intro 2:39: How housesitting works 10:53: Worthing 12:34: Winchester 18:12: Droxford 24:55: Bradford-on-Avon 30:15: Bath 33:36: Badgworth & Axbridge 37:07: Final thoughts 42:33: Wrapping it up Important links:Trusted Housesitters Mind My House Nomador TASC Clothing Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources ★ Support this podcast ★

Do you learn a few words of the local language before traveling to another country? Even knowing how to say hello, please and thank you can make a difference. But learning a little more can open the door to deeper connections with the people you meet along the way. In this episode, I’m joined by Margherita Berti, founder of Italian Matters, to talk about how learning and using the local language can lead to a more meaningful travel experience. Margherita grew up in Bergamo, Italy, and has spent years studying languages, linguistics and how we actually learn to communicate in another language. She shares practical tips for learning before you travel, from flashcards and podcasts to music, movies and the shadowing technique. We also talk about which words and phrases are most useful, why it helps to prepare for situations you know you'll encounter, and how to get past the fear of making a mistake and actually speak the language once you're there. Because you don't need to be fluent. And you definitely don't need to be perfect. Sometimes simply making the effort to speak a few words in the local language can create a connection — and become one of those moments you remember long after the trip is over. In this episode:1:10: Intro 1:53: About Margherita Berti 4:02: Italy to Indiana 10:24: Various learning tools 16:04: Key phrases to learn 18:01: Understanding creates connection 19:40: Using translating apps 22:51: Teaching English speakers 27:31: Advice for confident speaking 33:44: Margherita's final tips & thoughts 36:18: Lynne's final tips & thoughts 41:10: Wrapping it up Important links:Italian Matters Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources Safety Wing Tips For Traveling in Another Language ★ Support this podcast ★

I love independent travel.  I love being able to go where I want, when I want, and experience a destination in my own way. So I wasn't entirely sure how I would feel about small group travel. Yes, I know.  I offer small group trips. 😄 But turns out, I love it. In this episode, I'm sharing 9 reasons why independent travelers might just love small group travel too — from handing over the logistics and having knowledgeable local guides to getting into places that can be more difficult to experience on your own. We'll also talk about soft adventure, spending time in nature, experiencing the culture of a destination, leaving room for spontaneity and — perhaps most importantly — sharing those incredible travel moments with a small group of like-minded travelers. And small group travel doesn't mean giving up your independence completely.  There's still room for downtime, wandering on your own and simply doing your own thing. Small group travel may not be for everyone.  But if you're an independent traveler who has always thought, "Group travel isn't for me," this episode might just change your mind. In this episode:0:50: Intro 7:30: First...a story 11:34: Don't have to worry about logistics 13:47: Experience places you may not get to on your own 17:02: Local guides and their knowledge 20:50: Time for soft adventure and in being nature 27:22: Cultural experiences as well 31:00: Allows for spontaneous moments 34:41: Sharing moments with others 39:31: Small means small 41:49: Maintain your independent time 44:57: Recap 47:05: Final thoughts 53:39: Wrapping it up In this episode:Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way ★ Support this podcast ★

What if traveling more slowly isn’t about how much time you have, but how you choose to use that time? In this episode, I’m joined by Renee Hannes of Dream Plan Experience to talk about slow travel, intentional travel and the joy of returning to places we’ve already visited. We chat about why asking “How do I want this trip to feel?” can completely change the way you plan, how leaving more unplanned time can lead to some of your favorite travel memories, and why you don’t have to see everything on one trip. We also delve into the benefits of revisiting destinations — one of my favorite things to do. Returning to a place you love gives you the chance to peel back another layer, discover something you missed the first (or second) time and experience it through a completely different lens. And Renee and I share a few simple ways to incorporate slow travel into your next trip to Europe — even if you only have a week or two. If you’re ready to travel with a little more intention and a little less rushing, be sure to tune in. Want to chat more about slow travel? Send me a message at [email protected]. In this episode:2:28: Renee Hannes' bio 5:40: Renee's travel story rooted in Germany 12:08: Starting a travel business 15:55: Tuscany retreat 17:40: Mindset for slow travel 27:17: Revisiting places 39:07: Same place, new discoveries 50:00: Revisiting places is for some and not for others 55:25: Final thoughts from Renee 57:40: Some final thoughts from Lynne 1:01:28: Wrapping it up Important links:Dream Plan Experience Slow Travel 10 Helpful Things I Wish More Travelers Knew About EuropeWander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources Eagle Creek ★ Support this podcast ★

Germany is so much more than Bavaria, beer gardens and castles. In this episode of the Wander Your Way podcast, I’m joined by Germany travel expert Cate Brubaker of My Germany Vacation to dig a little deeper into this fascinating and diverse country. Cate has been traveling to and living in Germany since she spent her senior year of high school there.  She went on to earn bachelor's, master's and PhD degrees in German and has spent decades exploring the country.  So when it comes to Germany, she has a lot of knowledge to share! We talk about some of Cate's favorite places, including history-filled Berlin, the lively university city of Freiburg and the beautiful Black Forest, and the maritime city of Hamburg in northern Germany. But we venture even farther beyond the usual stops as Cate introduces us to Germany's northern islands, including Sylt, Rügen and the car-free island of Hiddensee, where you'll find beaches, hiking trails and landscapes that might completely change the way you picture Germany. Along the way, Cate shares practical advice about traveling by train versus renting a car, getting around without speaking German and why your travel style should help determine how you move around the country. And, of course, we couldn't talk about Germany without talking about Christmas markets!  Cate shares some of her favorites and explains why smaller neighborhood markets can sometimes offer an even more memorable experience than the famous ones. If you've only thought of Germany as Munich, Bavaria and the Alps, this conversation just might inspire you to dig a little deeper. Want to chat more about Germany? Send me a message at [email protected]. In this episode:1:58: Intro 4:08: Getting to know Cate 13:46: Cate’s top 3 destinations 16:40: Berlin: The Wall 25:51: Freiburg: The Black Forest 39:54: Hamburg: Harbors, Canals, Lakes 48:15: Honorable Mention: The Islands 52:12: Logistics & Tips 55:45: Christmas Markets 1:06:06: Final thoughts 1:08:18: Wrapping it up Important links: My Germany Vacation Germany Travel Planning PodcastWander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources REI ★ Support this podcast ★

Planning a trip to Europe? Before you book your flights or start mapping out your itinerary, there are a few things I wish more travelers knew before they go. In this episode, I share 10 helpful insights I've learned through years of traveling throughout Europe and helping clients plan their adventures. We talk about why Europe's famous cities are only part of the story, why distances can be deceiving, and why trains aren't always the best transportation option. I also explain why you don't need to see every famous attraction to have an incredible trip. You'll learn how Europe's national parks differ from those in North America, why walking is a part of everyday life, and why leaving room for spontaneity often leads to the most memorable travel experiences. Whether you're planning your first trip to Europe or your tenth, I hope these tips help you create a journey that's less rushed, more meaningful, and truly your own. Want to chat more about this topic? Email me at [email protected] In this episode:1:01: Intro 3:39: More than big cities 6:35: Natural destinations are amazing 8:21: National parks are different 10:27: Trains aren’t always best option 13:16: Europe doesn't have to be expensive 17:27: Distances can be deceiving 20:14: Walking is a way of life 23:14: Each country is unique 24:33: You don't have to see it all 27:21: You don't have to have it all planned 29:38: Recap and final thoughts 32:34: Wrapping it up Important links: 6 Tips to Help You Travel Cheaper to Europe Tips for Train Travel in Europe Discover Soft Adventure: Easy Ways to Explore Europe's Outdoors Slow Travel 3 Quick Tips for Planning Your Trip to Europe: Making the Plan 20 Essential Travel Tips You Need To Know Before Visiting Europe Wander Your WayWander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way ResourcesPatagonia ★ Support this podcast ★

Despite what some people may believe, Europe isn't too crowded. Sure, some places certainly are. But there are still a plethora of destinations where you can escape the crowds and feel like you've discovered something special. One of the questions I get asked all the time is, "How do you find these places?" especially when people see me in a destination they've never even heard of. In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the process I use to uncover those "hidden feeling" places in Europe that are just a little off the main tourist track. These aren't secret destinations. They're simply places that are often overshadowed by their more famous neighbors and don't usually show up at the top of a Google search. I'll share the 6 tips I use when researching my own travels — as well as the custom itineraries I create for my travel clients — from exploring maps in a different way to asking locals the right questions. Whether you love researching every detail yourself or would rather leave the planning to someone else (like me!), these ideas will help you find destinations that feel less busy and more connected to the landscape, history, local people, and culture. If you've ever wondered how to discover places that feel like your own special find, this episode is for you. Want to chat more about this topic? Email me at [email protected] In this episode: 1:48: Intro + background 6:43: Explore the map 8:57: Follow travelers who travel like you 10:37: Search by interest 14:00: Beyond famous places 17:57: Stay longer in fewer places 22:26: Talk to the locals 24:43: Recap 26:42: Final thoughts 29:20: Wrapping it up 32:55: Listener reviews Important links: 12 Destinations in Europe That Deserve More Love Slow Travel Tips for Traveling Off the Main Tourist Track 6 Tips For Planning an Amazing Trip to Europe Slow Travel Europe Wander Your Way Wander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way Resources TASC Performance ★ Support this podcast ★

Chatsworth House is one of England's most spectacular stately homes. And in this episode, I'm taking you inside one of the Peak District's most iconic landmarks. You'll learn about its fascinating history, explore the grand rooms and beautiful gardens, discover filming locations from Pride & Prejudice and other productions, and get plenty of practical tips to help you plan your own visit. I’ll also share why I think Chatsworth is worth visiting even though it’s one of the busier sights in the Peak District. From avoiding the busiest times to making the most of the gardens, estate walks, farm shop, and nearby trails, this episode will help you experience Chatsworth House at a slower, more enjoyable pace. Want to chat more about Chatsworth House? Contact me at [email protected] In this episode:1:56: Intro 2:44: Placing Chatworth House on the map 3:30: History 6:22: Rooms you can visit 11:29: Logistics & advice 13:38: The Garden 18:27: Nearby trails & parking 20:04: Additional planning considerations 26:22: Wrapping it up Important links:Chatsworth House Discovering the Diverse and Beautiful Peak District England Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way ResourcesEagle Creek ★ Support this podcast ★

Looking for destinations in Europe that deserve more love? In this episode, I'm sharing 12 places across Europe that I think deserve a spot on more travelers' wish lists. These aren't unknown destinations.  Because, let's face it, there are very few truly undiscovered places.  Instead I'd describe them as places that often get overshadowed by more famous neighbors. From wild Irish coastlines and peaceful English countryside to mountain landscapes in Slovenia, Scotland, Austria, and Italy, these destinations offer a variety of experiences.  Along the way, you'll find charming villages, fascinating history, outstanding food and wine, and plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors.  All are places I believe deserve more attention from curious travelers. Some are easy additions to a European itinerary, while others require a bit more patience and a sense of adventure.  And of course, all of them are places I've personally visited and would (and have) happily return to. Join me as I share why places like the Yorkshire Dales, Lake Bohinj, the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, Piedmont, the Hochkönig region, and the Mani Peninsula deserve more attention from travelers looking to venture beyond Europe's usual stops. Whether you're actively planning a trip or simply dreaming about future travels, I hope this episode inspires you to discover a few destinations in Europe that deserve more love. Want to chat more about these destinations or this topic? Email me at [email protected]. In this episode: 2:45: Intro 6:18: County Donegal, Ireland 10:30: Normandy, France 14:28: Yorkshire Dales, England 19:19: Lake Bohinj, Slovenia 23:09: Ardnamurchan, Scotland 30:17: Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland 37:22: Scottish Borders 41:08: Isle of Mull, Scotland 46:37: Piedmont, Italy 51:20: Val di Fassa, Italy 54:28: Hochkönig region, Austria 58:05: Mani Peninsula, Greece 1:03:04: Recap 1:03:54: Wrapping it up Important links: County Donegal • IrelandExploring Beautiful Normandy, France: Going Beyond the D-Day Beaches Amazing Things To Do in the Yorkshire Dales England Lake Bohinj • SloveniaDumfries & Galloway • ScotlandExploring the Scottish BordersIsle of Mull • ScotlandPiedmont • Italy6 Reasons to Visit the Beautiful Val di Fassa Italy Discovering the Stunning and Beautiful Hochkönig Region of Austria Stoupa • GreeceWander Your WayWander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way ResourcesNord VPN ★ Support this podcast ★

Portugal is a fascinating country, but there is so much more to discover beyond Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. In this episode, I'm joined by Portugal travel expert Julie Fox of Julie Dawn Fox in Portugal, who has called Portugal home for nearly 20 years.  Julie shares how she ended up moving from the UK to Portugal, why the country immediately felt like home, and what has kept her there ever since. Together we explore some of Portugal's lesser-known destination — from charming riverside towns and medieval villages to beautiful natural areas filled with walking trails and stunning scenery.  Along the way, Julie introduces us to places such as Ponte de Lima, Buçaco National Forest, Marvão, Alcobaça, Monchique, Penha Garcia, and several coastal communities that offer a quieter and more authentic experience of Portugal. We also discuss Portugal's only national park — Peneda-Gerês National Park, scenic hiking trails (Julie is a keen hiker), and practical tips for travelers who want to venture beyond the country's biggest cities.  Julie shares advice on the best time to visit, whether a rental car is worth it, and how to make the most of Portugal's incredible mix of history, culture, nature, and outdoor adventure. If you enjoy slower travel, spending time outdoors, discovering charming small towns, and getting beyond the usual stops, this episode will inspire you to explore a different side of fascinating Portugal. Want to chat more about Portugal? Send me an email at [email protected]. In this episode: 1:32: Introducing Julie Fox 4:24: Julie's travel story 10:21: Lisbon & Porto 16:27: North Portugal: Ponte de Lima 20:09: Peneda-Gerês National Park 23:45: Central Portugal: Buçaco National Forest 28:36: Eastern Border: Penha Garcia 32:39: Central: Alcobaça 38:09: Moving South: Alentejo Region 49:10: Algarve Region: Monchique & Alvor 57:12: Additional hiking 1:02:21: Travel tips plus a few more spots 1:13:13: Wrapping it up Important links:Julie Dawn Fox in Portugal Visit Portugal Wander Your Way Wander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way Resources Vuori ★ Support this podcast ★

In this short Listener Q&A episode, I’m tackling a thoughtful question from Miranda that more of us should probably be asking — how do you find cultural experiences that are both authentic and environmentally responsible when you travel in Europe? I share practical ways to travel more consciously — from choosing locally owned accommodations and guides to supporting small restaurants and seeking out truly local experiences. I also talk about eco-certifications — and why they don’t always tell the full story — plus a few simple ways to be a more responsible traveler without overcomplicating things. Then I shift gears and answer a second question from Miranda about traveling to Finland’s Lapland region, including why timing matters and where to start your research if it’s on your list. It’s a short episode, but one packed with ideas to help you travel more meaningfully. And maybe think a little differently about the choices you make along the way. Got a question you want answered? Head over to wanderyourway.com/podcast and fill out the form! 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: How To Travel Sustainably in Europe: Inspiring Tips From Carolyn S. Boyce of Eco Wander Woman Best Sustainable Experiences in Europe ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I’m taking you to beautiful Loire Valley France — a region known for fairytale châteaux, sparkling wine, charming villages, and wonderfully relaxed countryside travel.  I share some of my favorite experiences in the Loire Valley including visits to stunning castles like Château de Chenonceau, Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, and Château de Villandry, along with wine tastings at local vineyards and easy walks through the French countryside. I also talk about wandering the lively market in Amboise, discovering quiet villages, and why slowing down in the Loire Valley made the experience even more meaningful.  Whether you’re interested in château hopping, cycling and walking trails, local wine, or simply soaking up small-town France at a gentler pace, this episode will give you plenty of inspiration for planning your own Loire Valley adventure. Want to chat more about the Loire Valley? Email me at [email protected] In this episode: 1:22: Intro + announcements 4:42: Placing the Loire Valley on the map 9:04: Where to stay 10:54: Château de Chenonceau 15:38: Château d'Azay-le-Rideau 18:58: Château de Villandry 24:20: Vineyards 31:00: Towns & villages 41:01: Getting around 42:05: Wrapping it up Important links: Loire Valley TourismLoire Lovers Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources Safety Wing Château de Chenonceau Château d’Azay-le-Rideau Château de Villandry Plou et Fils Alain Robert ★ Support this podcast ★

Whitby, England. It’s iconic. It’s atmospheric. And yes, it’s definitely on the tourist trail. In this episode, I’m taking you to this seaside town on the Yorkshire coast to share what it’s really like to visit. From wandering the cobbled streets and climbing up to the ruins of Whitby Abbey, to walking the beach in search of sea glass and getting out on the Cleveland Way, there’s a lot to love here. But I’ll be honest — it’s also busy. Like, really busy. So I’m breaking it all down for you — what I loved, what surprised me, where I found quieter moments, and whether I think Whitby is actually worth your time. Especially if you tend to avoid more touristy spots like I usually do. If you’re curious about this historic coastal town — or trying to decide if it fits your travel style — this episode will help you figure it out. Want to chat more about Whitby, England? Email me at [email protected]. In this episode: 2:00: Intro 2:45: Placing Whitby on the map and some history 7:39: Lynne’s Story of choosing Whitby 13:12: Fish & Chips 16:20: Arch and Abbey 18:40: Shops 22:17: The Beach 24:16: Pier & Jetty 25:57: Old Town, Whitby Abbey & St. Mary’s 34:53: The Cleveland Way 38:48: Other things to do 40:44: Logistics 42:44: Final thoughts 48:20: Wrapping it up Important links:York England The Full English Magpie Cafe The Fisherman's WifeArch and Abbey Youngs JewellersVisit Whitby Whitby Abbey The Cleveland Way Safety Wing Wander Your Way Resources Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures ★ Support this podcast ★

It’s time for another Listener Q&A — and this one gets right to the heart of how you travel. Johanna is planning a trip to Italy with two first-time travelers and asks a great question: is it better to pack in as much as possible or slow things down and focus on just a few places? In this episode, I talk through the pros and cons of both approaches, why there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and how to find that sweet spot between seeing a lot and actually enjoying where you are. From bouncing between cities to choosing a home base and taking day trips, I share some practical ways to think about pacing — especially for a first trip to Europe. If you’ve ever wondered how much is “too much” when planning your itinerary, this one’s for you. Got a question you want answered? Head over to wanderyourway.com/podcast and fill out the form! 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: 5 Tips to Manage Feelings of Overwhelm When Planning a Trip to Europe 3 Quick Tips for Planning Your Trip to Europe: Making the Plan Travel Mistakes to Avoid on Your Next European Trip ★ Support this podcast ★

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 ★