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This is the final Ski Japan episode and final episode of Snacks and Suitcases for the season.  Find out how a Club Med all inclusive ski trip in Hokkaido can be the easiest and best way to experience a ski trip with the family! Skiing and snowboarding in Japan is truly something special and Hokkaido is one of the best places in the world for families. In this final episode of the year, Sally chats with Michelle Davies from Club Med Pacific about what makes Club Med Hokkaido such an easy and memorable ski holiday with kids. We look at the different Club Med resorts including Kiroro Grand for little ones, Kiroro Peak for teens, and Tomamu for first time skiers with the bonus of the amazing Mina Mina Waterpark. Michelle also shares how much snow Hokkaido gets each season (and it's a whopping amount!) and why the long ski season makes planning around school holidays so simple. There is also time for a little Christmas spirit as Sally remembers her own white Christmas in Canada and we hear favourite festive memories from all our Ski Japan guests. It is the final episode of Snacks and Suitcases for the year and the perfect way to finish the Ski Japan series. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ski Japan Series 01:53 Exploring Club Med Resorts in Hokkaido 10:33 Choosing the Right Resort for Families 12:23 Celebrating Christmas in Japanese Ski Resorts 14:49 Booking Tips for Ski Holidays 17:09 Reflections on a White Christmas Topics We Mentioned Club Med Snow Tomamu Sahoro Kiroro Peak Kiroro Grand Club Med France Niseko United Whistler Blackomb  Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget your snacks! Merry Christmas!  

This is the 2nd episode in the Ski Japan Series and it’s all about the snowiest and fluffiest, ski destination in Japan… Niseko! In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton sits down with long-time Niseko devotee Christie Hampton, who has spent more than 20 winters in Japan’s most famous ski town. If you’re dreaming of that light, dry, ridiculously fluffy Hokkaido powder (that you simply cannot get in Australia), this is your ultimate family guide to skiing Niseko. Plus Christie also shares why the ski resorts in Rusutsu and Furano are also fantastic options. Christie first visited Niseko decades ago, long before it blew up into the global ski phenomenon it is today. Now, she returns every single Japanese winter with her family. Her kids have been skiing that powder since they were two years old, so she is a bona fide expert! Sally and Christie cover: Why Niseko continues to win “Best Ski Resort in Japan” year after year What first-timers need to know about weather, gear, goggles and the cold Whether Niseko is comfortable for babies and toddlers Why booking ski school (and pretty much everything possible) early is essential Where to eat, shop and explore beyond the slopes What makes Furano and Rusutsu worth adding to your itinerary Onsens (yes, we talk about mixed onsens!) and the magic of Japanese snow culture Day trip ideas, terrain advice. Christie gives a refreshingly honest, super helpful breakdown of what makes Niseko special and why so many families return year after year. If you’re tossing up whether to make Japan your next snow holiday… this episode will absolutely seal the deal. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to Niseko: A Family Ski Paradise 03:01 The Allure of Niseko's Powder Snow 06:01 Skiing in Hokkaido: Comparing Resorts 10:37 Christie's Journey: From Visitor to Local 11:44 Exploring Other Hokkaido Resorts 15:33 Why Niseko is the Best Ski Area in Japan 22:01 The Changing Face of Niseko 25:19 Budget-Friendly Tips for Families 26:05 Getting Around Niseko: Transportation Tips 27:57 Activities for Non-Skiers: Food and Onsens 30:52 Exploring Onsen Culture in Japan 32:45 Family-Friendly Activities in Niseko 34:59 Day Trips and Local Attractions 37:44 Ski School Insights for Kids 42:02 Winter Weather and Clothing Essentials 48:04 Packing Tips for a Niseko Trip 49:42 Shopping and Supermarket Experiences 52:10 Quickfire Questions about Niseko   Topics  we mentioned Furano Ski Resort Rusutsu Rhythm Japan Niseko United Grand Hotel Onsen Rhythm Rides Moiwa Lodge Ren Izakaya Gyu Bar   Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget your snacks or your skis!   

This is the first of three snowy episodes all about skiing in Japan. If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable family ski trip to Japan, this episode is your go to guide to exploring Honshu with kids. Niseko might get all the powder hype, but Honshu has its own incredible magic. Culture filled villages, family friendly resorts and that perfect amount of adventure and charm that families love.  And the best part? Some of Honshu’s top ski spots are just a quick hop, skip and Shinkansen ride from Tokyo. Sally is joined by BBC Travel Reporter Carmen Roberts who spent eight years living, working and skiing in Japan. Carmen’s insider knowledge of family travel, easy day trip resorts, and hidden gem ski areas is very impressive. In this episode Carmen shares her top family friendly ski resorts in Honshu including: • Gala Yuzawa. The famous Shinkansen to Ski resort you can reach directly from Tokyo. • Hakuba. A huge resort area with something for every level of skier. • Nozawa Onsen. A beautiful traditional village known for incredible snow and natural hot springs. • Myoko Kogen. A favourite for families who want great snow without the big crowds (for now). They also chat about the best off-snow activities for the whole family including onsens (and onsen family etiquette) the adorable Snow Monkeys, what to pack for your family ski trip and when to travel for the best snow and the least crowds. If you are planning a family ski holiday to Japan this episode is packed with practical travel tips, resort advice, and expert insights to make your next snowy adventure unforgettable. Follow @carmenroberts_travels Ski Resorts  We Mentioned: Gala Yuzawa https://gala.co.jp/en/winter/ Hakuba https://hakuba.com/ Nozawa Onsen https://en.nozawaski.com/ Myoko Kogen https://myokoskiresort.com/ Ishiuchi https://ishiuchi.or.jp/winter/ Kagura/Naeba and Prince Hotel https://www.princehotels.com/en/ski/kagura/ Lotte Arai  https://www.lottehotel.com/arai-resort/en   Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget your onsen etiquette!    

My Big Adventure: The Travel Diaries Making Screen-Free Fun Easy with Kirstin Edwards Looking for a screen-free activity your kids will actually get excited about on the plane, in the car or at the airport? Want something educational, fun and destination specific to build anticipation before a big trip? In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, Sally chats with Kirstin Edwards, the Melbourne mum and creator behind My Big Adventure Travel Diaries, the beautifully designed, activity packed journals helping kids learn about the world before they even take off. These aren’t your average travel journals. Each diary is tailored to a specific country, filled with fun facts, cultural insights, challenges, colouring and a digital element that can help kids learn the local language… PLUS a customisable airline ticket so parents can reveal a surprise trip in the cutest way possible. Whether you’re heading to Bali, Japan, New Zealand, Thailand or Fiji, there’s a diary that turns your child's trip into a real life adventure. Kirstin shares how the idea came to life, her own childhood dreams of travel, why she believes every family trip can be educational, and how these diaries help kids stay engaged without relying on screens. She also shares hidden gems from her last New Zealand South island escape. AND gives us a special travel tip you may NEVER have heard before! This episode is for you if you want to: • keep kids busy and learning on long flights • build excitement before your holiday • travel screen-free without meltdowns • create meaningful keepsakes from your adventures Get your glue sticks and glitter ready (but not your coloured pens IYKYK). Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Travel with Kids 02:59 Creating Engaging Travel Diaries 05:58 Kirsten's Journey and Background 09:02 Educational Value of Travel Diaries 12:07 Interactive Features and Activities 15:04 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Tricks 18:04 Popular Destinations and Future Plans 21:05 Balancing Fun and Education in Travel 24:03 Inspiration and Idea Generation 28:56 Traveling with Kids: Challenges and Creativity 32:12 Family-Friendly Destinations: Exploring Options 35:36 Travel Tips: Preparing for Flights with Kids 39:28 Accommodation Strategies: Booking for Convenience 41:01 New Zealand Adventures: Hidden Gems and Activities 50:22 Unique Travel Tips: Capturing Family Memories 52:01 Future Travel Plans: Exploring New Destinations   Follow @my_big_adventure_ Topics  we mentioned Novak Djokovic’s Regenesis https://www.regenesis.studio/ NZ Queenstown Accommodation:  https://www.platinumqueenstown.co.nz/ Kestrell nest https://www.highfieldfarmwoodland.com/kestrel-nest-ecohut/ Silver River Stargazing Tours https://silverriverstargazing.com/ Imoova https://www.imoova.com/en   Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]    Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget some coloured ink fades!     

Flying with kids and mum life in India Explosive poos, baby spews, crying toddlers, and cramped plane seats… sound familiar? In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton dives into the realities of flying with babies and young kids. Joined by her friend Rachel McCallum, an Australian expat living in India, the two share and compare their own stories of flying with little ones. From chaotic long-haul flights to moments of unexpected calm, they explore what actually helps make air travel with kids easier and more enjoyable. You’ll hear practical tips on packing, managing sleep and in-flight meals, and staying calm when things don’t go to plan. Rachel also gives a glimpse into her vibrant life as a mum raising two boys in India, surrounded by colour, culture, and adventure. So once again grab your snacks, secure that tray table, and prepare for take-off, this one’s all about keeping your cool at 30,000 feet!   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Traveling with Kids 01:03 Expert Insights from Rachel McCullen 05:12 Life as an Expat in India 09:50 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Experiences 14:11 Navigating Flights with Young Children 21:12 Final Thoughts on Family Travel 23:01 Traveling with Kids: The Early Years 24:35 The Benefits of Traveling with Children 25:40 Flying with Babies: Tips and Tricks 29:14 Navigating Long Flights with Kids 30:29 Essential Packing for Family Travel 32:01 Snacks and Entertainment on Flights 36:19 Traveling with Car Seats and Strollers 39:09 Cultural Experiences and Multicultural Upbringing 41:31 Handling Flight Challenges and Passenger Reactions 44:24 The Headphone Dilemma 48:59 Navigating Long-Haul Flights 51:32 Jet Lag Strategies for Kids 55:45 Handling Multiple Children on Flights 58:41 Coping with Takeoff and Landing Screams 01:00:28 Final Thoughts on Flying with Kids Follow @Rachmcc84 Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget your snacks!   

It's Hamish Blake In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton sits down with one of Australia’s biggest stars, Hamish Blake. Known for his humour, warmth and adventurous spirit, Hamish opens up about his secret travel-agent skills, his love for cycling holidays with his kids and why he believes every family trip should leave room for a few happy mishaps. From impromptu terrifying cliff climbs in Europe to sharing the spirit of dance with school kids in Uganda, Hamish shares what he loves about travelling with his family in the big wide world. PLUS Hamish answers a few fun travel (and Lego) questions straight from kids. This feel-good chat will inspire you to embrace adventure, laugh through the chaos, and maybe even start a few travel traditions of your own. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hamish Blake 01:56 Travel Planning and Family Adventures 04:49 Embracing Mishaps on Family Trips 06:24 Experiences in Africa and Education 10:13 Cultural Insights from Uganda 12:03 Preparing for Travel with Kids 13:50 Cycling Adventures: A Family Tradition 20:14 The Joy of Family Bike Rides 23:28 Exploring New Destinations 28:33 Future Cycling Plans and Adventures 31:55 The Benefits of Cycling Holidays 34:31 Navigating Teenage Travel 38:40 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Tricks 41:55 Fan Questions and Fun Facts 45:36 Closing Thoughts and Final Tips   Bike tours (not affiliated) https://www.artofbicycletrips.com/ https://www.centralcycletrail.co.nz/ https://www.australiancycletours.com.au/cycling-themes/family-friendly https://biketourjapan.com/shimanami-kaido-setouchi-tour/ Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]    Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget your snacks!   

Surprise! This is a bite-sized BONUS episode of Snacks and Suitcases! Host Sally Stanton continues her chat with Jo McGregor from The Tokyo Chapter. This time diving into Nara, Japan’s charming town filled with friendly bowing deer, ancient temples, and family-friendly adventures. But it’s not all temples and rice crackers! Sally and Jo also unpack a topic every travelling parent can relate to…. tummy troubles on the road (yes, constipation)! They share practical tips for keeping everyone feeling great while eating abroad, from finding veggies in Japan to what to pack just in case. Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome to Snacks and Suitcases: Bite-Sized Japan Bonus 00:45 – Why Nara is a Must-Visit with Kids 01:40 – Feeding the Deer (and What Not to Feed Them!) 02:20 – Temples, Shrines, and the Famous Giant Buddha 03:30 – Mochi-Pounding at Nakatani-do 04:45 – Where to Eat in Nara: Big Mountain Café & More 05:30 – The Great Veggie Hunt in Japan 07:00 – Tummy Troubles Abroad (and How to Avoid Them) 09:00 – Biking Around Nara & Family-Friendly Exploring 10:00 – Bonus Tip: A Day Trip to Kobe 11:00 – Wrap-Up and Where to Listen Next Topics we mentioned Info on finding veggies and salads in Japan https://www.thetokyochapter.com/when-im-craving-lots-o-veggies/ Nara recommendations for families https://www.thetokyochapter.com/nara-some-quick-tips/ What to Pack for Japan with Kids https://www.thetokyochapter.com/packing-for-tokyo-with-kids/ Contact Jo https://www.thetokyochapter.com/ Instagram @thetokyochapter Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!   

Jo Macgregor from The Tokyo Chapter joins host Sally Stanton again, but this time they are putting the spotlight on Osaka and Kyoto. In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, Sally and Jo  explore the vibrant and fun city of Osaka and the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto. They discuss the unique cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and must-visit spots in both cities, including temples, shrines, and local cuisine. The conversation also touches on practical travel advice, such as transportation options and accommodation recommendations, making it a comprehensive guide for families planning a trip to Osaka and Kyoto. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Osaka and Kyoto: A Family Adventure 02:32 The Unique Vibe of Osaka 06:49 Family-Friendly Activities in Osaka 10:36 Cultural Experiences in Kyoto 23:02 Must-Visit Temples and Shrines in Kyoto 28:56 Exploring Temples and Shrines in Kyoto 32:00 Family-Friendly Activities and Recommendations 33:29 Duration of Stay in Kyoto 36:01 Accommodation Options in Kyoto 38:45 Navigating Kyoto: Transportation Tips 42:01 Private Tours and VIP Experiences 43:17 Crowd Management Strategies 45:46 Cultural Experiences: Kimono and More 48:06 Must-Visit Attractions for Families 51:30 Dining Recommendations in Kyoto 56:27 Final Thoughts and Travel Tips Topics we mentioned &Here Osaka Namba Hotel Kids Plaza Osaka https://www.thetokyochapter.com/kids-plaza-osaka/ Restaurant suggestions for families in Osaka https://www.thetokyochapter.com/where-to-eat-in-osaka-with-kids/ Restaurant suggestions for families in Kyoto https://www.thetokyochapter.com/kyoto-restaurants-with-kids/ Kyoto Railway Museum and the Playground next door https://www.thetokyochapter.com/kyoto-railway-museum/ Kinkakuji (Golden Pavillion) and restaurants nearby for families https://www.thetokyochapter.com/kyotos-kinkakuji-with-kids/ Kiyomizudera and family friendly options nearby https://www.thetokyochapter.com/kyotos-kiyomizudera-temple-with-kids/ Enkoji and the playground nearby https://www.thetokyochapter.com/enkoji-temple-a-big-playground-near-by-kyoto/ Arashiyama with kids https://www.thetokyochapter.com/other-japanese-cities-arashiyama-with-kids/ The Private Driver Company https://www.thetokyochapter.com/private-drivers-private-tours-in-japan-with-kids/ What to Pack for Japan with Kids https://www.thetokyochapter.com/packing-for-tokyo-with-kids/ International Manga Museum Teamlab Biovortex Kyoto Contact Jo https://www.thetokyochapter.com/ Instagram @thetokyochapter Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!   

Are you all in on "All Inclusive Travel"? If you're still unsure, this episode may just convince you to jump head first into one of the easiest, cruisiest ways to vacay! In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton explores the world of all-inclusive travel with Michelle Davies, the General Manager of Club Med Pacific and New Emerging ESAP Markets (with a job title like this you know she's your go to gal when it comes to Club Med!) They discuss the unique offerings of Club Med, including kids clubs, gourmet dining, and a variety of activities that cater to families, like snorkelling, tennis, trapeze, excursions, foam parties, water parks and MORE. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about all-inclusive resorts, highlighting their value and flexibility. You'll learn about the appeal of these vacations for families (especially in the snow) the extensive amenities available, and the exciting destinations that Club Med offers, including upcoming resorts in South Africa. The episode concludes with personal insights and recommendations for family travel.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to All-Inclusive Travel 02:59 Exploring Club Med's Unique Offerings 06:52 The Appeal of All-Inclusive for Families 10:22 Activities and Amenities at Club Med 17:00 Myth-Busting All-Inclusive Misconceptions 24:00 The Value of All-Inclusive Packages 31:58 Kids Clubs and Family Activities 34:22 Multi-Generational Travel at Club Med 38:55 Popular Destinations for Aussie Families 43:51 Personal Favourites and Closing Thoughts Topics we mentioned Club Med Club Med Marrakech Club Med South Africa Club Med Hokkaido Club Med Val Thorens Connect Contact Club Med Australia Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast  @sallynanamis Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of an "All-Inclusive" escape AND... Don't forget your snacks!     

In this bite-sized episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton chats with her daughter Piper to see the school holidays through a kid’s eyes. They share fun stories about their favourite school holiday activities in Sydney, dream about upcoming family adventures in New Zealand, and relive the thrills of Tokyo DisneySea. Piper also reveals her top holiday recommendation again…. visiting Japan’s famous dog cafés! Full of giggles, travel inspo, and honest kid takes, this episode is perfect for parents and kids dreaming up their next school holiday adventure OR even if it’s just exploring their own backyard. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to School Holidays 00:48 Reflections on Holiday Activities 03:42 Kids' Perspectives on Fun 05:11 Travel Dreams and Future Plans 07:29 Favorite Travel Experiences 08:58 Virtual Reality Adventures 09:51 Fast Five with Piper   Topics we mentioned Back To The Future The Musical Australian Botanic Garden Horizon Of Khufu Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast  @sallynanamis Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of a travel. AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton catches up with fellow TV presenter and seasoned traveller Sophie Falkiner to talk all things travel, parenting, and the wild world behind travel TV. Sophie’s career has taken her gorilla trekking in Africa, chasing the Northern Lights, and visiting some of the most spectacular destinations on the planet. She also shares her love story with Africa….including the time she got pashed by a giraffe on her honeymoon!  Plus her passion for boating on Sydney’s Pittwater and why the simplest family moments often mean the most. Travelling for TV isn’t always as glamorous as it looks. Sophie and Sally reveal the reality of long days, unpredictable conditions and some very questionable on-camera meals (think snake and even prairie oysters!). Off-screen, Sophie’s love of exploring has shaped her personal life too. She’s raised her kids to be just as curious and adventurous. Now as a teenager and a young adult, they’re fearless travellers in their own right. This episode is packed with family and teen travel inspiration, behind-the-scenes TV tales, and lots of stories that prove TV travel isn’t always red carpet glamorous, but when it’s good, it’s downright unforgettable, just like travelling with kids! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Travel with Kids 02:43 Sophie Faulkner's Journey in TV and Travel 05:43 The Thrill of Travel and Adventure 08:44 Memorable Travel Experiences and Encounters 11:56 Behind the Scenes of Travel TV 14:48 Family Life and Parenting Challenges 17:47 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Recommendations 20:42 Strange Foods and Culinary Adventures 23:35 Personal Travels and Honeymoon in Africa 26:31 Traveling with Teenagers 29:22 Balancing Work and Family Life 32:41 Favorite Family Holidays and Destinations 35:29 Traveling with Kids: The Reality 38:27 Fast Five Questions with Sophie 41:38 Conclusion and Future Travels   Contact Instagram @sophie_falkiner @sydneyweekender www.Sydneyweekender.com.au Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast  @sallynanamis Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with your fellow travel loving friends.  AND... Don't forget your snacks!   

A must listen for anyone planning a Disneyland adventure! Host Sally Stanton is joined by Let's Go Mum founder and Disneyland expert Barbara Bryan to chat, which Disneyland has just the right amount of magic for you and your family.  Together they explore Disney parks around the world, from Disneyland California and Walt Disney World to Epcot, Shanghai Disneyland and Tokyo Disneyland. Barbara shares insider tips on the best rides for kids of every age, how to beat the crowds, where to find the yummiest Disney snacks and why staying at a Disney hotel can make the whole experience even more magical. You will hear how to plan your Disney trip like a pro, from budgeting and booking tickets to timing your visit for the shortest queues. They also talk about accessibility for neurodivergent families, hidden gems in each park and the unforgettable moments that make Disney holidays so special. This episode is packed with practical tips and playful stories to help you plan your ultimate Disney family adventure. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to Disneyland: A Magical Journey Begins 02:18 Meet the Expert: Barbara Bryan's Disney Adventures 04:45 The Allure of Disneyland: Family Fun and Memories 07:47 Exploring the Disney Parks: A Global Overview 11:07 Disney World vs Disneyland: A Tale of Two Parks 14:49 Epcot: A Culinary and Cultural Experience 16:33 Orlando: Beyond Disney - A City of Fun 17:41 Planning Your Disney Trip: Tips for Families 19:02 Shanghai Disneyland: The Newest Disney Experience 21:20 Tokyo Disneyland: A Budget-Friendly Gem 23:51 Hong Kong Disneyland: A Family-Friendly Park 29:28 Anticipating Disneyland Paris: What to Expect 31:13 The Future of Disney: New Parks and Attractions 36:38 Choosing the Right Disney Park for Your Family 39:11 The Thrill of Disney Rides 40:38 Choosing the Right Disney Park 41:32 Best Times to Visit Disney Parks 43:37 Navigating Crowds and Queues 45:08 Booking Park Tickets: Tips and Tricks 47:25 Understanding Express Passes and VIP Services 49:09 Staying at Disney Hotels: Worth It? 51:27 Accessibility for Neurodivergent Families 53:02 Top Rides for Kids 55:29 Disney's Scary Attractions 57:26 Best Kept Disney Secrets 59:29 Unique Disney Snacks and Food Experiences 01:01:57 Baby-Friendly Disney Parks 01:04:11 Handling Long Queues with Kids 01:05:46 Disney on a Budget 01:08:31 Affordable Disney Hotels 01:10:17 Final Tips for a Magical Disney Experience Contact Barbara Let's Go Mum Australian Family Travel Instagram @letsgomum Facebook Let's Go Mum Facebook Youtube Let's Go Mum Youtube Channel   Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast  @sallynanamis Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Disney! AND... Don't forget your snacks! 

We LOVE Sydney! In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, TV presenter and radio favourite Lizzy Lovette joins host Sally Stanton to co-host a deep dive into their hometown of Sydney, Australia. As fellow Sydney Weekender reporters (and mums), they share why Sydney is one of the world’s best family destinations. From must-see icons like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge to hidden gems only locals know, Lizzy and Sally swap tips on outdoor adventures, cultural hotspots, kid-approved dining, and unique experiences you won’t want to miss. For first-time visitors or locals looking for fresh ideas, this episode is your ultimate family guide to exploring Sydney. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Sydney: A Family Destination 02:43 Exploring Sydney's Iconic Sites 05:44 Family-Friendly Activities in Sydney 08:34 Hidden Gems and Local Favorites 11:41 Unique Experiences for Kids 14:37 Cultural and Artistic Adventures 17:41 Food and Dining with Kids 20:34 Outdoor and Nature Activities 23:35 Adrenaline-Pumping Adventures 26:21 Relaxing Getaways and Mini-Breaks 29:34 Tips for First-Time Visitors 32:22 Final Thoughts and Recommendations   Contact Lizzy Lovette Instagram @lizzylovette   Topics we mentioned Whalebridge Restaurant Sydney Harbour Bridgeclimb May Gibbs Nutcote High N Dry Burgers The Ark Haberfield Kids Night Out Sydney Weekender Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!   

Giveaway Alert: Follow @Snacksandsuitcasespodcast on Instagram, find the giveaway post and tag a friend for your chance to win a signed copy of Ada's junior fiction series Mia Megastar! In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton sits down with Ada Nicodemou, Australian actress and Home and Away star, to talk all things family travel, parenting, and cultural connections. Ada shares her love for visiting her family roots in Greece and Cyprus, along with her favourite family-friendly destinations in Australia like Port Douglas and Palm Beach, the real-life Summer Bay! From the challenges of travelling with kids to the joys of cruising holidays, Ada gives honest tips and personal stories that will inspire any parent planning their next adventure. The conversation also explores Ada’s passion for food and Greek cuisine, her treasured reading habits while on the road, and how her experiences on Home and Away have influenced her outlook on travel and life as a working mother. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why cruising is an ideal holiday option for families The importance of food and culture in Ada’s travels Tips for managing long flights and packing with kids Ada’s favourite spots in Sydney for family outings How travel deepens family connections and cultural heritage Ada’s love of reading and writing as part of her travel journey Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ada Nicodemou 01:25 Ada's Love for Travel and Family Destinations 06:53 Experiences on Home and Away and Travel Inspirations 09:40 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Challenges 19:36 Cruising Adventures and Family Fun 26:45 Cultural Connections: Cyprus and Greece 32:36 Food Memories and Culinary Adventures 37:47 Reading and Writing: Ada's Literary Journey 51:54 Local Sydney Favorites and Family Activities 56:49 Fast Five: Quick Travel Preferences What we mentioned Quicksilver Tours Nth Qld Grecian Park Hotel Grecian park Hotel near Konnos Bay in Cyprus - Ada's fave hideway Ttappis Tavern Ada's favourite Cheap Eats in Cyrpus   Follow Ada on  Instagram @adanicodemou Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!   

Planning a family trip to Japan? In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton welcomes back Jo McGregor from The Tokyo Chapter to share her best advice for parents traveling with kids. From booking hotels and navigating public transport to cultural experiences and must-have travel apps, Jo covers everything you need to know before taking your family to Japan. You’ll learn how to plan your trip, avoid common mistakes, and make your travels smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, or exploring beyond, this episode is packed with practical insights to help parents create unforgettable memories with their kids in Japan. ✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to plan and organise your family trip to Japan The best times of year to visit Japan with kids Why booking hotels in Japan often starts six months ahead Tips for navigating public transport with children How to handle cash, budgeting, and local customs Family-friendly activities, from Disneyland to cultural spots The role of apps and pocket Wi-Fi in stress-free travel Luggage forwarding services and how they make travel easier Answers to real listener questions about Japan family travel 📌 Key Takeaways: Japan is safe and family-friendly, but planning makes all the difference Public holidays can lead to crowds—plan around them Research airport transport before arrival Technology like Google Maps and Mama Papa Map are game-changers for parents Cultural experiences can be enjoyable for kids with the right pacing Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Season 2 00:56 Traveling to Japan with Kids 09:55 Planning Your Trip to Japan 16:24 Booking Essentials for Japan 20:00 Disneyland and Family-Friendly Activities 24:01 Cultural Experiences and Local Insights 30:03 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Tricks 37:44 Pre-Travel Preparations 46:03 Cash and Budgeting in Japan 49:33 Technology and Apps for Travelers 55:02 Listener Questions and Answers Things we mentioned Ecbo Luggage Storage App https://cloak.ecbo.io/en Mama Papa Map App https://apps.apple.com/au/app/mamapapamap-nursing-room-map/id1117756080 Pokemon Hotel https://mimaruhotels.com/en/news/stay-pokemonroom/ Strange Robot Dinosaur Hotels https://group.hennnahotel.com/ What to Pack for Japan with Kids https://www.thetokyochapter.com/packing-for-tokyo-with-kids/   Contact Jo: @thetokyochapter thetokyochapter.com   Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!