"I want to see Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Prague in 10 days" is one of the most common calls a travel advisor gets — and one of the fastest ways to turn a dream trip into an exhausting one. This week, Ryan and Julie break down which European countries actually pair well together, and why…"I want to see Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Prague in 10 days" is one of the most common calls a travel advisor gets — and one of the fastest ways to turn a dream trip into an exhausting one. This week, Ryan and Julie break down which European countries actually pair well together, and why the right combination matters more than the longest list. Why Pairing Matters Not every combination works. Mismatched destinations mean long travel times, rushed days, and a trip that feels like ...more
This episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel Podcast
Winging It On Location – Day 1: 5-Hour Layover in Am…Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast
This episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel Podcast
Winging It On Location – Day 1: 5-Hour Layover in Amsterdam & Arriving in Tallinn
The European tour is officially underway.
In this first on-the-road episode, I take you through my journey from Toronto to Tallinn via Amsterdam, including what you can realistically do with a 5-hour layover at Schiphol Airport. I share the exact train route into the city, why I chose the Jordaan district, and the coffee stop that made the short visit worthwhile.
After a quick wander through Amsterdam’s canals, bridges, and tree-lined streets, I head back to the airport for my flight to Estonia. Once in Tallinn, I give my first impressions of the city, explain the easiest tram connection from the airport, and meet up with friends for dinner in the heart of the Estonian capital.
If you’re planning an Amsterdam layover, a Tallinn city break, or simply enjoy hearing authentic travel stories from the road, this episode is for you.
In this episode:
• How to do Amsterdam on a short layover
• Using contactless payment on Dutch trains
• The best area to wander for 2–3 hours in Amsterdam
• Coffee recommendation in the Jordaan district
• Arriving in Tallinn and getting into the city for €2
• Hotel information
• Dinner, drinks, and the start of the Baltic adventure
Support Winging It Travel Podcast
If you enjoyed this episode:
• ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app
• ☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit
• 🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com
• ✈️ Check out more great travel podcasts at https://voyascape.com
• 📺 Now also on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@wingingittravelpodcast
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 Intro & recording live from Tallinn
01:38 Toronto to Amsterdam: the journey begins
02:20 Getting through Schiphol and heading into the city
03:15 The fastest train from Amsterdam Airport to Central Station
04:05 Why I chose the Jordaan district for a short layover
05:30 Canals, bridges, sunshine, and wandering without a plan
06:40 Coffee stop recommendation: KOF Café
07:30 The unexpected challenge of finding a public toilet
08:10 Where to see the famous houses sitting on the water
09:05 Is a 5-hour Amsterdam layover actually worth it?
09:45 Flying to Tallinn and first impressions of Estonia
10:20 Tallinn hotel, tram tips, and city-centre arrival
10:55 Dinner with friends and Estonian food prices
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around
the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.more
Karen Cordaway of the Everyday Bucket List booked Amsterdam almost on a whim after watching a Ted Lasso episode. She stayed in the Jordaan neighborhood -- one of the swankiest in the city -- walked to the Anne Frank House, spent an afternoon at the Van Gogh Museum, took a canal tour in the rain, and…Karen Cordaway of the Everyday Bucket List booked Amsterdam almost on a whim after watching a Ted Lasso episode. She stayed in the Jordaan neighborhood -- one of the swankiest in the city -- walked to the Anne Frank House, spent an afternoon at the Van Gogh Museum, took a canal tour in the rain, and nearly got knocked into the water by a cyclist who apparently had the right of way. She brings back everything: what surprised her, what moved her, what to eat, and what to watch out for when you're standing anywhere near a bike lane.
What You'll Walk Away With
• Why Karen almost ended up in a canal -- and the unofficial rule of Amsterdam that puts pedestrians firmly at the bottom of the hierarchy
• What the Anne Frank House actually feels like to walk through, including the real bookcase, the original sink, and the room where a 12-year-old pinned up pictures of movie stars
• How Karen did the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and a canal tour all in one day -- and why she recommends spreading them out if you can
• The Napoleon window tax story: why those narrow, vertical Amsterdam houses may have been built to avoid paying taxes on frontage
• Why spring is Karen's pick for the best time to visit -- and the hop-on hop-off tulip bus that takes you to what she calls the Disney World of flowers
• The open curtains culture: the Calvinist transparency theory versus the "showing off wealth" theory, and why the canal tour guide had a very different take
• Where to find Dutch pancakes with bacon embedded in the middle -- and why Karen thinks Amsterdam's food scene is surprisingly international
• The red light district at noon: what it's actually like to walk through, and the one rule that absolutely applies whether it's day or night
• Why Amsterdam works well for a 7-day trip with day trips built in -- and how to get to the Zaanse Schans windmills for free on a bus
• What kind of traveler Amsterdam is perfect for -- and why it's a harder trip with small children than you might expect Where in the World is Crystal?
Adventure Annette tries to guess whether Crystal is in Tokyo.
Resources Mentioned
• Everyday Bucket List -- Karen Cordaway's podcast and travel content; Amsterdam playlist linked in show notes
• Anne Frank House, Amsterdam -- advance tickets required; no photography inside; annefrank.org
• Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam -- advance tickets required; vangoghmuseum.nl
• Zaanse Schans windmill village -- free entry, about one hour by bus from central Amsterdam; zaanseschans.nl
• Jordaan neighborhood -- recommended area to stay; central, walkable, canal access
• Keukenhof tulip gardens -- seasonal (spring); hop-on hop-off bus available from Amsterdam; keukenhof.nl
• Eating With Todd -- food content creator mentioned for Amsterdam restaurant recommendations; search on TikTok and Instagram
• Tony Chocolonely -- Dutch ethical chocolate brand; flagship store in Amsterdam; tonyschocolonely.com
• Stacking Adventures gear store -- stackingadventures.com/gotd
• Where in the World is Crystal? -- stackingadventures.com/mystorymore
This week on Drop A Pin the boys are flying solo and we are talking about one of the most infamous travel destinations: Amsterdam. Chap’s just got back from a family trip and is here to tell all about his experiences and dive into the history of one of Europes most iconic cities, as well as hearing …This week on Drop A Pin the boys are flying solo and we are talking about one of the most infamous travel destinations: Amsterdam. Chap’s just got back from a family trip and is here to tell all about his experiences and dive into the history of one of Europes most iconic cities, as well as hearing some of Donnie’s less family friendly tales from the city of sin.
Timestamps:
(00:00:00) - Show Start
(00:00:38) - Weekly Top 10
(00:04:42) - Pre Boarding
(00:24:55) - A Word From Our Sponsors
(00:29:49) - Amsterdam Discussion
Find Your Wins with New Amsterdam Vodka
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET, 800-327-5050/visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
Call 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 800-981-0023 (PR).
Wagering offered by DK Sportsbook: 21+. Present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/PR/WY). Void in ONT. On behalf of Boothill Casino (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL.Event Trading offered by DraftKings Predictions, CFTC-registered: 18+. Trading involves risk of loss. Market availability varies. Predictions offer void in NY. General: 1 per new DraftKings customer. $5+ deposit req. Trade $5, get $200 Prediction Dollars (1-year expiry) issued as $50 increments every 7 days via click-to-claim for 21 days; or bet $5, get $200 Bonus Bets instantly (7-day expiry and stake removed from payout). 7 days = 168hrs. Rewards are non-withdrawable. Terms: dkng.co/offer. Ends 7/19/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.
Reese’s. The Official Candy Partner of Barstool Sports. Go Get Reese’s Wherever You Shop
Embrace Debate — shop now at Walmart.com or in stores nationwide.
Follow Drop A Pin!
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thedropapinshow/?hl=en
X: https://x.com/DropAPinShow
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedropapinshow
After getting completely sidetracked in their last episode, we finally get to hear all about Emily’s annual girls trip. This time to Belgium and the Netherlands! Emily shares why she loves staying overnight in popular day-trip destinations like Bruges, her favorite experiences in Antwerp, Amsterdam,…After getting completely sidetracked in their last episode, we finally get to hear all about Emily’s annual girls trip. This time to Belgium and the Netherlands! Emily shares why she loves staying overnight in popular day-trip destinations like Bruges, her favorite experiences in Antwerp, Amsterdam, and Utrecht, and all the best things to eat, see, and do along the way. We also dive into Amsterdam’s unique culture, some surprising observations from the trip, and whether Emily’s opinion of the...more
What's it really like to cycle from Amsterdam to Bruges — and sleep in your luxury floating hotel along the way?
In this episode, we dive into the unforgettable Amsterdam to Bruges bike and barge tour, one of Europe's most relaxing active adventures. Pedal flat scenic routes through the Netherlands…What's it really like to cycle from Amsterdam to Bruges — and sleep in your luxury floating hotel along the way?
In this episode, we dive into the unforgettable Amsterdam to Bruges bike and barge tour, one of Europe's most relaxing active adventures. Pedal flat scenic routes through the Netherlands and Belgium, cruise past windmills and riverside villages, and explore iconic cities like Amsterdam, Ghent, and Bruges — all while unpacking just once.
We cover the daily mileage, difficulty level, what life aboard the barge is really like, and who this tour is perfect for (hint: you definitely don't have to be a hardcore cyclist - it's FLAT!!!).
If you love active travel with comfort, culture, and incredible scenery — this one's for you. And if you've been trying to get your partner to join you on an adventure, this is the PERFECT vacation that allows for differing physical abilities and desires - just like with our guest today!
Press play and let's ride through Holland and Belgium. 🚲🛥️
You'll discover:
• What it's really like to live aboard a bike and barge
• How difficult (or easy!) the cycling actually is
• Who this tour is perfect for — and who might want an e-bike
• The highlights of riding through Amsterdam, Antwerp, Ghent, and the fairytale canals of Bruges
• Why boat and bike tours are one of the best ways to experience Europe
If you love active travel but prefer comfort over camping… if you enjoy cultural immersion without exhausting logistics… and if the idea of pedaling flat scenic paths through Holland and Belgium sounds like your kind of adventure — this episode is for you.
By the end, you may just find yourself planning your own Amsterdam to Bruges bike & barge adventure.
Take advantage of an exclusive Active Travel Adventures BoatBikeTours.com discount - email me for the current Boat Bike Tours promo code!
COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important links for planning your European adventure, photos plus more cool info about today's show.
Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (plus each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!). Get the monthly newsletter here.
CONTACT KIT
Resources
RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES
******* EMAIL ME FOR PROMO DISCOUNT CODES*****
Travel Insurance: Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy! The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.
Saily Affordable eSIM Overseas Mobile Phone Plans - No need to insert a physical SIM card when you travel. Buy just the data you need to avoid expensive roaming charges. Use Promo Code SPECIAL5 to save 5%
High Altitude Travel Insurance: Most insurance policies do NOT cover high altitude adventures. Check out Rise & Shield for your next mega adventure!
Train For Your Adventure Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have! You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success. Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit. AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount!
Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program? You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks!
Tinggly: Give Gift Experiences instead of stuff (plus your loved one gets to choose)! Promo Code ACTIVETRAVEL saves up up to 20%
Amazon Kit's Picks Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account. Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:)
SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations)
Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group
Follow ATA on Instagram
Follow ATA on Pinterest
(C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved
Two Dutch tour guides help us get the picture on what's new on Amsterdam's eclectic exhibit scene. Then a Blue Badge guide lets us in on where to go in London to see the exciting ways the venerable city is reinventing itself. And a journalist delves into the inexact science of borders and ponders th…Two Dutch tour guides help us get the picture on what's new on Amsterdam's eclectic exhibit scene. Then a Blue Badge guide lets us in on where to go in London to see the exciting ways the venerable city is reinventing itself. And a journalist delves into the inexact science of borders and ponders the complicated relationship between physical geography and national identity.more
Erin Hynes - Gouda Cheese Market, Den Bosch Canals & Dreamy Delft – Exploring the Netherlands with Pina Travels
In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m joined by Erin Hynes from Pina Travels and the Curious Tourism Podcast for a rich, wide-ranging journey through the Netherlands — fro…Erin Hynes - Gouda Cheese Market, Den Bosch Canals & Dreamy Delft – Exploring the Netherlands with Pina Travels
In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m joined by Erin Hynes from Pina Travels and the Curious Tourism Podcast for a rich, wide-ranging journey through the Netherlands — from bustling cheese markets to hidden medieval canals, national parks to charming historic cities.
Erin’s deep personal connection to the Netherlands, through her family’s roots in Friesland, brings a unique insight into Dutch heritage and culture. Together, we explore well-known highlights and lesser-visited locations, weaving in stories about history, food, cycling culture, and the everyday beauty of life in this fascinating country.
We cover:
• Delft – Iconic blue Delftware pottery, historic churches, and postcard-perfect canals.
• Gouda – The world-famous cheese market and the traditions that keep it alive.
• Den Bosch – One of the best-preserved medieval city centres, with canals running beneath the streets.
• Dordrecht – A laid-back city with picturesque streets and waterside cafés.
• Werkendam & Biesbosch National Park – Wetlands, birdlife, and the Dutch art of water management.
• Utrecht – Two-level canals, lively cycling culture, and a vibrant student city vibe.
• Friesland – A unique province with its own language, traditions, and proud heritage.
Along the way, we dive into Dutch cuisine (from bitterballen to pannenkoeken), the country’s ingenious engineering solutions for living below sea level, and why cycling here is more than just a mode of transport — it’s part of the national identity. We also talk about the warm historical ties between the Netherlands, Canada, and the UK.
Whether you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands or love hearing about destinations beyond the obvious, this conversation will give you fresh ideas, practical travel tips, and a deeper appreciation for Dutch culture.
🎧 Listen to the Curious Tourism Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/curious-tourism-responsible-travel-podcast/id1449041086
🌍 Follow Erin (Pina Travels) on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinatravels/
🌍 Visit Pina Travels Website for awesome blogs: https://pinatravels.org/
🔔 Subscribe, leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review, and support the podcast via Buy Me A Coffee!
From calamari and patatas bravas on the Costa Brava to poolside chicken fingers in Surfside Beach and from pomme frites in Amsterdam to, wait, more chicken fingers (???), this episode is as varied and delicious as the Shady Maple breakfast smorgasbord* (IYKYK).
In this episode, my friend Stephanie from @thebackpackingmom and I recount our adventurous trip to Belgium and Amsterdam, highlighting our experiences traveling with kids, managing illness, and exploring beautiful cities like Bruges and Ghent.
Things you'll hear about in this episode:
• Travel…In this episode, my friend Stephanie from @thebackpackingmom and I recount our adventurous trip to Belgium and Amsterdam, highlighting our experiences traveling with kids, managing illness, and exploring beautiful cities like Bruges and Ghent.
Things you'll hear about in this episode:
• Traveling with kids can be an adventure, but flexibility is key.
• Bruges feels like a fairy tale town, perfect for wandering.
• Ghent offers a more medieval vibe compared to Bruges.
• Managing a sick child while traveling requires patience and adaptability.
• Amsterdam is a very walkable city with beautiful sights.
• Booking attractions in advance can save time and hassle.
• Traveling with a friend can make the experience more enjoyable.
• Kids can surprise you with their adaptability while traveling.
• Food is an essential part of the travel experience, especially local treats.
• Every trip has its challenges, but they often lead to the best memories.
• Find yourself a mom friend to travel with! Resources + Links:
Find Stephanie on Instagram at @thebackpackingmom
Blog Post: Belgium, Amsterdam, and Luxembourg 7 Day Itinerary
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond podcast, join me as I take you on an exciting journey through the vibrant city of Amsterdam. We'll uncover the top 7 must-see attractions that this historical and picturesque city has to offer:
1. Vondelpark - Amsterdam's green getaway
2. Anne Frank Hou…In this episode of The Radio Vagabond podcast, join me as I take you on an exciting journey through the vibrant city of Amsterdam. We'll uncover the top 7 must-see attractions that this historical and picturesque city has to offer:
1. Vondelpark - Amsterdam's green getaway
2. Anne Frank House - A poignant journey through history
3. Albert Cuyp Market - A sensory delight for foodies
4. Heineken Experience - Dive into the world of beer
5. Rijksmuseum - Explore Dutch art and history
6. Canal Cruise - See Amsterdam from a different perspective
7. The Van Gogh Experience and Van Gogh Museum - Immerse yourself in the world of Van Gogh
So, sit back, relax, and let's embark on an unforgettable adventure together in Amsterdam! more
What do Europeans think about the USA? Kristin talks with strangers on the streets of Amsterdam about their thoughts on the United States and its citizens, but their reactions were not what she expected. Tune in to hear from an older couple from the Netherlands, "Retired Richard," a Belgian tourist,…What do Europeans think about the USA? Kristin talks with strangers on the streets of Amsterdam about their thoughts on the United States and its citizens, but their reactions were not what she expected. Tune in to hear from an older couple from the Netherlands, "Retired Richard," a Belgian tourist, a solo female traveler, and Lois the Local.
SPECIAL OFFERS:
• Unbound Merino makes the perfect gift (or gift card!) for the holidays
• Try Nordace backpacks for work, school, travel, or the gym
• Subscribe to Kristin's weekly travel tips email
RESOURCES:
• What did you think of these conversations? Leave your feedback and reflections in the YouTube comments!
RELATED VIDEOS:
• Talking to Locals in Dublin, Ireland
• Talking to Locals in Northern Ireland
• Talking to Locals in the UK
• Asking People How They Became Digital Nomads
Connect with Kristin and Support the Show:
* Become a Patron
* Buy a Coffee
* Follow on Instagram
* Join the Facebook Group
* Leave a 5-Star Review
* Subscribe on YouTube
See the show notes pages on BadassDigitalNomads.com or TravelingwithKristin.com/podcast for time stamps, transcripts, and more resources from this episode.
