White sand beaches, ancient stone circles, single-track roads, and ferries that sell out months ahead. Scotland's islands are pure magic when you plan them properly, and we've just come back from an Outer Hebrides road trip ready to share the route and the reality so you can plan your own Lewis and …White sand beaches, ancient stone circles, single-track roads, and ferries that sell out months ahead. Scotland's islands are pure magic when you plan them properly, and we've just come back from an Outer Hebrides road trip ready to share the route and the reality so you can plan your own Lewis and Harris adventure with confidence. We start with the nuts and bolts: driving north from the Midlands, choosing the scenic Glencoe route, staying overnight in Ullapool, and taking the CalMac ferry to...more
Today host Aaron Millar is sharing a bucket list bit of madness — literal adventure insanity he got up to about 15 years ago in the Scottish Highlands. It's called the Glen Nevis River Race, and it involves hurling yourself down two miles of white-water rapids with nothing but a novelty inflatable f…Today host Aaron Millar is sharing a bucket list bit of madness — literal adventure insanity he got up to about 15 years ago in the Scottish Highlands. It's called the Glen Nevis River Race, and it involves hurling yourself down two miles of white-water rapids with nothing but a novelty inflatable for company.
Picture part extreme white-water adventure, part Monty Python's Navy — competitors arrive bearing giant inflatable swans, killer whales, dinosaurs and, for one unfortunate soon-to-be husband, a blow-up doll. It's one of those rare, acutely British moments when only the preposterousness of your situation matches the bravado required to see it through. And Aaron has never, ever laughed so hard in his life.
Highlights include:
• Hearing what it feels like to stand on the edge of a thundering 40ft waterfall, inflatable lilo in hand, with a crowd screaming at you to jump.
• Discovering what it feels like to be swept into a churning cauldron of white-water with nothing but an inflatable air mattress to keep you afloat.
• Finding out about the world's most wonderfully ridiculous outdoor adventures — including World Bog Snorkelling, Gloucestershire Cheese Rolling, and the Frozen Dead Guy Days festival.
FIND OUT MORE
The Glen Nevis River Race is an annual summer event held in Glen Nevis, Scotland, raising money for the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team. It's free to enter but contestants must raise a minimum of £100 in sponsorship. It's run by No Fuss Events: find out more at nofussevents.co.uk
Other adventures mentioned in this episode:
• World Bog Snorkelling Championships: held each summer near Llanwrtyd Wells, Wales: green-events.co.uk
• Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling: annual chaos every last Monday of May in Gloucestershire: cheese-rolling.co.uk
• Frozen Dead Guy Days: Estes Park, Colorado. Yes, it's real. Yes, you should go. VisitEstesPark.com
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Armchair Explorer is written and presented by Aaron Millar. Audio editing and sound design by Charles Tyrie. Theme music by Sweet Chap. Produced by Armchair Productions.
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Dreaming of a trip to the British Isles? In this episode of All Things Travel, travel advisors Ryan and Julie of Wonder and Beyond Travel break down four distinct ways to experience Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and London — with expert insight on their favorite travel partner, CIE Tours. What's covered…Dreaming of a trip to the British Isles? In this episode of All Things Travel, travel advisors Ryan and Julie of Wonder and Beyond Travel break down four distinct ways to experience Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and London — with expert insight on their favorite travel partner, CIE Tours. What's covered in this episode: 🥾 Walking & Hiking Tours (Small Group, Max 16) Perfect for the active explorer, CIE's small-group hiking tours cover wild coastlines, hidden gems, and iconic landscapes. Ryan ...more
Planning a UK trip when standing still hurts, stairs are a gamble, and transport feels unpredictable can be genuinely daunting. In this episode, Laura Dilts shares how she built a London and Scotland itinerary around a back injury, without shrinking the trip down to safe choices or missing the magic…Planning a UK trip when standing still hurts, stairs are a gamble, and transport feels unpredictable can be genuinely daunting. In this episode, Laura Dilts shares how she built a London and Scotland itinerary around a back injury, without shrinking the trip down to safe choices or missing the magic. We talk through the real decisions that make accessible UK travel work: starting early, turning a wish list into an energy-friendly plan, and researching each attraction for seating, step-free ro...more
This week, we're honored to welcome Marie "Lootie" Leautey, a record-breaking endurance runner and former international CFO who became only the seventh person in history and the fastest woman to run around the world. Born in France and shaped by a life of radical nomadism that took her from Scotland…This week, we're honored to welcome Marie "Lootie" Leautey, a record-breaking endurance runner and former international CFO who became only the seventh person in history and the fastest woman to run around the world. Born in France and shaped by a life of radical nomadism that took her from Scotland to Greece to Singapore, Lootie has spent her entire adult life chasing curiosity across borders. But it wasn't a boardroom achievement or a triathlon finish line that changed everything. It was a humbling 500-meter jog with a group of friends in their fifties that stopped her in her tracks, lit a fire, and ultimately set her on a path toward one of the greatest physical and human adventures ever attempted.
At 26, a pack-a-day smoker who had never run more than a few hundred meters without stopping, Lootie made a decision that would reshape her entire life. She quit smoking that same day, began building her running from the ground up, and nine months later crossed the finish line of her first marathon in Greece, near the ancient city of Marathon itself. That moment planted a seed that would take root over the following decade and bloom into something extraordinary: a solo, self-supported world run covering four continents, 700 consecutive marathons, a global pandemic, and zero injuries. Her newly released book, Lootie's World Run, chronicles every breathtaking, grueling, and deeply human step of that journey.
In this episode, we explore what it truly means to listen to your body as your greatest teammate, how Lootie navigated the COVID-19 pandemic mid-run without ever considering quitting, and what she discovered about human kindness in the most unexpected corners of the world from the remote saloons of Montana to the high passes of the Andes. We also dive into her philosophy of "accidental performance," the power of confronting your dreams rather than your fears, and what she means when she says the fireworks were exploding in her heart as she crossed her finish line, alone in an airport, with the whole world completely unaware. Join us for a conversation that will make you believe, without a doubt, that the greatest adventure on earth is the one you have been waiting to begin.more
Spring flips a switch across the UK, and we’re here for the first warm light, the wisteria‑framed streets, and the rush of longer evenings. We pull together clear, local advice from London to the Lake District, the Cotswolds, Devon, and the far north of Scotland so you can plan a smarter, calmer tri…Spring flips a switch across the UK, and we’re here for the first warm light, the wisteria‑framed streets, and the rush of longer evenings. We pull together clear, local advice from London to the Lake District, the Cotswolds, Devon, and the far north of Scotland so you can plan a smarter, calmer trip. We kick off in London with Becki from Walks and Devour: cherry blossom in parks, Kew’s treetop walkway, canal strolls from Hackney Wick to King’s Cross, and midweek Borough Market eats. We also...more
Please make sure to click here & 'Follow' the show – It really helps, Thanks! Revisiting Season 4 Highlights: Luisa Hendry aka the Scottish Geologist Full Episode Link Join us for this highlight reel from Season 4 Episode 3 featuring Louisa Hendry, aka the Scottish Geologist, as she takes us on a fa…Please make sure to click here & 'Follow' the show – It really helps, Thanks! Revisiting Season 4 Highlights: Luisa Hendry aka the Scottish Geologist Full Episode Link Join us for this highlight reel from Season 4 Episode 3 featuring Louisa Hendry, aka the Scottish Geologist, as she takes us on a fascinating journey through Scotland's geological history. From volcanic eruptions to ancient mountain chains, discover how Scotland's dramatic landscapes were formed over millions of years...more
Happy New Year from Destination Eat Drink! On our special New Year’s episode we’re ringing in the new year by banging bread on the wall in Ireland, celebrating the constellation of Matariki in New Zealand, and observing First Footing in Scotland. Plus, throwing furniture off the balcony in Naples an…Happy New Year from Destination Eat Drink! On our special New Year’s episode we’re ringing in the new year by banging bread on the wall in Ireland, celebrating the constellation of Matariki in New Zealand, and observing First Footing in Scotland. Plus, throwing furniture off the balcony in Naples and adding whisky to trifle! [Ep 369]
Show Notes:
Foodie Travel Guides by Destination Eat Drink
Flavour Trails food and whiskey tours in Ireland
Mickela’s TV show Bare Feet
Daniel Stables travel writer
Dan’s book Fiesta: A Journey Through Festivity
Edinburgh food tours with Nell at Edinburgh Food Safari
Brent’s video from the Lille, France Christmas Marketmore
In this special solo episode closing out 2025 and celebrating episode 200 of JUMP, Jackie reflects on a year of travel, growth, and big transitions. Recorded alongside a real-time sunrise over Edinburgh Castle, she shares three lessons from her final JUMP Adventures trip of the year to Peru, includi…In this special solo episode closing out 2025 and celebrating episode 200 of JUMP, Jackie reflects on a year of travel, growth, and big transitions. Recorded alongside a real-time sunrise over Edinburgh Castle, she shares three lessons from her final JUMP Adventures trip of the year to Peru, including why the in-between moments matter more than landmarks, how taking the road less traveled deepens meaning, and why slow travel creates the strongest connection to place.
Jackie also shares an important update on JUMP Adventures, explaining her decision to step back from leading public group trips after ten years of guiding people through challenging experiences around the world. While her role is shifting, the heart of JUMP remains intact, with trusted itineraries and partnerships still available for those ready to gather their own people and do hard things together.
The episode closes with what’s next for Jackie, including a solo trip to Scotland for a writer’s retreat over Thanksgiving and her birthday, where she finally created space to focus fully on writing her book. She also shares her end-of-year reflection practices and her “word for 2026” as an invitation to make space, listen inward, and step intentionally into the next chapter.
Resources:
• https://travelingjackie.com
• https://jumpadventures.com
• Instagram: @TravelingJackie
• Please follow the show, leave a 5-star review if you love it, and share with your travel buddies
• Don’t miss Jackie’s behind-the-scenes communications - hop on our email list at TravelingJackie.com
Massive thanks to Osprey.com and ObozFootwear.com for sponsoring and supporting our show!
Produced by NOVA
Take a leap with Jackie IRL - join us in Greece and Norway in 2025 at JUMPadventures.com
We chat about the Sagrada Familia, the National Monument of Scotland and confront the brave new world of "frictionless travel" as promised by facial recognition technology
Historian Colin Jones has managed to distill centuries of French history into just 250 pages, and he leads us through significant sights from the mighty nation's recent past. Then a veteran BBC correspondent recalls turbulent times in 1980s Afghanistan and the hotel that still stands as a symbol of …Historian Colin Jones has managed to distill centuries of French history into just 250 pages, and he leads us through significant sights from the mighty nation's recent past. Then a veteran BBC correspondent recalls turbulent times in 1980s Afghanistan and the hotel that still stands as a symbol of the country's resilient people. And a photographer from Scotland's Hebrides describes his ongoing quest to capture the moods, light, and breathtaking beauty of his homeland.more
In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I explain what you need to know before driving your rental car across the border into Northern Ireland or Scotland. You’ll learn which routes are permitted, what fees apply, and how to make sure your insurance and rental agreement stay valid.
Full sh…In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I explain what you need to know before driving your rental car across the border into Northern Ireland or Scotland. You’ll learn which routes are permitted, what fees apply, and how to make sure your insurance and rental agreement stay valid.
Full show notes with video & links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/driving-rental-car-ireland-northern-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/more
In episode 174 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by resident train travel expert Doug Collins to share highlights from his six-week rail adventure across the UK. Travelling from London to Scotland and back again, Doug explored major cities, rural stations and some of Br…In episode 174 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by resident train travel expert Doug Collins to share highlights from his six-week rail adventure across the UK. Travelling from London to Scotland and back again, Doug explored major cities, rural stations and some of Britain’s most scenic routes while gathering video content for upcoming YouTube guides. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Which UK train routes offer the most spectacular views ✅ How to use passes lik...more
In this final episode of the Van Life Diaries: Europe 1985, we return to England, drive through Scotland and Wales, and catch a ferry to Ireland. Then it's back to London, a farewell to our beloved campervan, on to Singapore for a few days and finally we end up back home in Perth, Australia, after s…In this final episode of the Van Life Diaries: Europe 1985, we return to England, drive through Scotland and Wales, and catch a ferry to Ireland. Then it's back to London, a farewell to our beloved campervan, on to Singapore for a few days and finally we end up back home in Perth, Australia, after six months away. What a strange feeling!
This is the sixth part of a monthly, six-episode series celebrating the fact that exactly 40 years ago this year, my family and I spent six months in a striped motorhome travelling around Europe. I was nine years old and yes, this trip had an enormous impact on my life - I'm sure you wouldn't be listening to this podcast today if Van Life 1985 hadn't taken place! Throughout the series, I'll include chats recorded with my Dad this year, extracts from my late Mum's travel diary from 1985, and of course my own memories and thoughts.
A big thanks to Context Travel for sponsoring this series, and an even bigger thanks to my Dad for agreeing to be part of it.
Links:
• Context Travel - https://bit.ly/contexttravel - use the code THOUGHTFULTRAVEL to get 15% off any online booking. Context Travel operate walking tours in cities around the world, and have interesting and qualified subject-matter experts leading your walk
• Listen to Part 1 of Van Life Diaries: Episode 348 - https://notaballerina.com/348
• Listen to Part 2 of Van Life Diaries: Episode 351 - https://notaballerina.com/351
• Listen to Part 3 of Van Life Diaries: Episode 355 - https://notaballerina.com/355
• Listen to Part 4 of Van Life Diaries: Episode 359 - https://notaballerina.com/359
• Listen to Part 5 of Van Life Diaries: Episode 364 - https://notaballerina.com/364
• Join our Facebook group for Thoughtful Travellers - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thoughtfultravellers
• Join our LinkedIn group for Thoughtful Travellers - https://notaballerina.com/linkedin
• Sign up for the Thoughtful Travellers newsletter at Substack - https://thoughtfultravel.substack.com
• Show notes: https://notaballerina.com/370 Support the show: https://thoughtfultravel.substack.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.more
Planning a trip to the UK and want to make the most of every moment? In this episode, Laura shares how she celebrated her 60th birthday with a 15-day journey across England and Scotland, combining solo adventure, accessible travel planning, and plenty of unforgettable experiences. You’ll learn how t…Planning a trip to the UK and want to make the most of every moment? In this episode, Laura shares how she celebrated her 60th birthday with a 15-day journey across England and Scotland, combining solo adventure, accessible travel planning, and plenty of unforgettable experiences. You’ll learn how to: ✅ Plan a realistic itinerary that balances sightseeing and rest ✅ Navigate London during busy times like Tube strikes ✅ Make the most of flex tickets, early entry tours and coa...more
Scotland promises unforgettable adventures, but even the best-planned trips can be derailed by a few common mistakes. In this episode, we reveal fifteen pitfalls travellers often make and share practical advice to help your Scottish journey run smoothly. Here are just some of the mistakes we discuss…Scotland promises unforgettable adventures, but even the best-planned trips can be derailed by a few common mistakes. In this episode, we reveal fifteen pitfalls travellers often make and share practical advice to help your Scottish journey run smoothly. Here are just some of the mistakes we discuss: Visiting Edinburgh in August during the Fringe Festival or Military Tattoo without booking accommodation and restaurants well in advanceUnderestimating the impact of midges in the Highlands and i...more
Lori-Ann and Nick Mancini transform their daughters' Irish dance opportunity into an unforgettable 20-day family adventure across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, blending cultural experiences with memorable exploration. • Flying direct from Orlando to Dublin before driving through I…Lori-Ann and Nick Mancini transform their daughters' Irish dance opportunity into an unforgettable 20-day family adventure across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, blending cultural experiences with memorable exploration. • Flying direct from Orlando to Dublin before driving through Ireland and Northern Ireland • Discovering the surprising beauty of Northern Ireland, including Tollymore Forest, Giant's Causeway and Silent Valley • Flying to Edinburgh and experiencing Holyrood ...more
Nell Nelson was born and bred in Edinburgh, Scotland. She shares with Brent why you gotta do more than the Royal Mile and castle when you visit Edinburgh. Nell also talks about dishes like traditional haggis, a cow whiskey party, the best markets, and neeps & tatties. Plus, something called Dutch Co…Nell Nelson was born and bred in Edinburgh, Scotland. She shares with Brent why you gotta do more than the Royal Mile and castle when you visit Edinburgh. Nell also talks about dishes like traditional haggis, a cow whiskey party, the best markets, and neeps & tatties. Plus, something called Dutch Courage. [Ep 348]
Show Notes:
Destination Eat Drink foodie travel guides at Buy Me a Coffee
Daniel Stables, author of the new book "Fiesta: A Journey Through Festivity," discussed fascinating, travel-worthy festivals in Italy, Thailand, Scotland, Nevada and elsewhere—and what they tell us about what it means to be human.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcas…Daniel Stables, author of the new book "Fiesta: A Journey Through Festivity," discussed fascinating, travel-worthy festivals in Italy, Thailand, Scotland, Nevada and elsewhere—and what they tell us about what it means to be human.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Are you craving an adventure that’ll connect you deeper to Scotland’s wild places, warm people, and timeless legends?
Andy McAlindon, better known as Andy the Highlander, is a Scottish tour guide, author, actor, and storyteller whose passion for Scotland’s history and culture has captivated millio…Are you craving an adventure that’ll connect you deeper to Scotland’s wild places, warm people, and timeless legends?
Andy McAlindon, better known as Andy the Highlander, is a Scottish tour guide, author, actor, and storyteller whose passion for Scotland’s history and culture has captivated millions online. From learning to sword fight on the set of Outlander to guiding travelers through hidden villages and ancient rituals, Andy’s journey is all about bringing Scotland’s living traditions to life.
In this episode, we explore Andy’s transformation from electrician to beloved Highland guide and content creator, and his best advice for experiencing Scotland beyond the tourist traps.
Andy shares the raw story of how he found purpose through grief, what he learned about work and resilience from his dad, and how stepping into the Highlander role helped him fall deeper in love with his homeland. We dig into the lesser-known places to go, local festivals to plan around, cultural traditions you’ll want to bring home, and the magic of slowing down to connect with real people. Whether you’re planning your first trip or just want to daydream about wild glens and cozy pubs, you’ll come away with practical tips and a new perspective on what travel in Scotland can really mean.
What’s one local tradition you’d love to borrow from Scottish culture and weave into your own life? I'd love to hear what they are, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.
Tune In To Learn:
Why Andy swapped a career as an electrician to become Scotland’s most recognizable Highlander
How a tragic loss unexpectedly led him to the stage and ultimately to the screen
What it was like sword fighting for Outlander and how that shaped his tours
The lesser-known places that need to be on your Scotland list
How Andy balances sharing Scotland’s hidden gems while protecting them from overtourism
Advice on hiking the West Highland Way without the rookie mistakes
Why staying in a bothy or croft helps you experience Scotland like a local
How handfasting ceremonies and sharing a ‘quake’ cup reveal the heart of Scottish connection
What local foods, drinks, and live music spots make your trip unforgettable
How to support local communities and keep Scotland’s spirit alive when you visit
And so much more
Resources:
Sign up for our FREE newsletter
Highlander Tours
Lochs and Legends book
Andy the Highlander on Instagram
TikTok
YouTube
Want More?
Hiking the West Highland Way in Scotland with Lynne Nieman
Bike-Packing Scotland and Breaking Free of Cultural Expectations with C.D. Seventeen
Lessons From Running Every Street In Glasgow, Scotland w/ Michael Shanks
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