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
🎧 Go West with Steve Silk — Cycling Britain's Wild and Winding West Country
Go West with Steve Silk | Cycling Adventure Across Britain's West Country
Join Active Travel Adventures as we chat with Steve Silk about his new book Go West and his 300-mile cycling journey through Britain's backroads, co…🎧 Go West with Steve Silk — Cycling Britain's Wild and Winding West Country
Go West with Steve Silk | Cycling Adventure Across Britain's West Country
Join Active Travel Adventures as we chat with Steve Silk about his new book Go West and his 300-mile cycling journey through Britain's backroads, coastlines, and countryside. Discover how slow travel reveals adventure and meaning on two wheels.
You'll hear fascinating stories, legends and learn some of the history along Steve's adventure and come away inspired to create your own grand adventure, whether by bike, foot or cia paddling.
🚴♀️ Ride Into Britain's Past — One Pedal Stroke at a Time
In this episode of Active Travel Adventures, host Kit Parks sits down with British journalist and adventurer Steve Silk, author of the captivating new book Go West: Adventure Cycling Through Britain's Past.
Steve's journey follows winding country lanes and scenic coastal climbs. Along the way, he encounters farmers, ferrymen, and fellow wanderers—each sharing stories that bring Britain's western landscapes to life.
"When you travel slowly—by bike or by foot—you see how the land shapes people, and how people shape the land." – Steve Silk
COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important links for planning your own adventure, photos, and more cool info about today's show.
📚 Get your copy of Go West
🗺️ What You'll Discover in This Episode
• How Steve designed his route
• The most memorable stretches through Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset
• Hidden inns, fishing ports, and countryside cafés perfect for cyclists
• Why slow travel and self-propelled adventures deepen cultural understanding
• Tips for planning your own multi-day cycling tour
• What Britain's backroads teach us about resilience, simplicity, and wonder
🌿 About the Guest — Steve Silk
Steve Silk is a British writer, journalist, and lifelong cyclist passionate about exploring the intersection of landscape and story. His best selling first book, The Great North Road, retraced Britain's most famous coaching route from London to Edinburgh.
In Go West, Steve turns toward the Atlantic, pedaling 300 miles across fields, moors, and coastline to rediscover the spirit of Britain's West Country.
COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important links for planning your own adventure, photos, and more cool info about today's show.
Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and 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*****
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%
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.
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!
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:)
📚 Resources Mentioned
• Book: Go West: Adventure Cycling Through Britain's Past by Steve Silk
• Steve's Website: stevesilk.co.uk
• Follow Steve: Instagram | Twitter/X
• Previous Book: The Great North Road
🛒 Where to Buy Go West
Get your copy today: 👉 Amazon or your local independent bookstore.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
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💬 Join the Conversation
Have you ever followed a historic route on your own adventure? Share your story in the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group or tag @ActiveTravelAdventures on Instagram!
(C) Active Travel Adventures LLC - All Rights Reserved
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
Mary and Chris from Minnesota share insights from their fifth trip to the UK, spanning 28 days across South Wales, Cornwall, the Jurassic Coast, and East Anglia. Their adventures in a tiny Fiat 500 took them to castle ruins, stunning gardens, Roman remains, and hidden treasures while connecting with…Mary and Chris from Minnesota share insights from their fifth trip to the UK, spanning 28 days across South Wales, Cornwall, the Jurassic Coast, and East Anglia. Their adventures in a tiny Fiat 500 took them to castle ruins, stunning gardens, Roman remains, and hidden treasures while connecting with locals and experiencing the authentic Britain beyond tourist hotspots. • Travelling for their fifth visit to the UK, Mary and Chris spent 28 days exploring areas they hadn't fully experienced bef...more
This week's episode immerses you in the beauty and experiences Wales has to offer. John Hadwin joins us to unveil hidden gems and top recommendations for exploring this remarkable country. You’ll learn about the rich history, stunning scenery, and mouth-watering cuisine that make Wales a must-visit …This week's episode immerses you in the beauty and experiences Wales has to offer. John Hadwin joins us to unveil hidden gems and top recommendations for exploring this remarkable country. You’ll learn about the rich history, stunning scenery, and mouth-watering cuisine that make Wales a must-visit destination. • Discover the top experiences to explore in Wales • Why Wrexham is quickly becoming a tourist hotspot • Insider tips for making the most of your Welsh adventure&nbs...more
Delve into the remote outposts and refuges across the globe where travelers have stopped along the course of their adventures. Then hear about the highest views in Wales — and how to reach them — and learn about the country's slate mining heritage. And from Alps to caves, vineyards to beehives, catc…Delve into the remote outposts and refuges across the globe where travelers have stopped along the course of their adventures. Then hear about the highest views in Wales — and how to reach them — and learn about the country's slate mining heritage. And from Alps to caves, vineyards to beehives, catch the buzz of the natural wonders on display in Slovenia.more
In episode 128 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy again welcomes John Hadwin from Boutique Tours of North Wales. Known for his exceptional private tours around North Wales, John shares his insights and expertise in catering to cruise passengers looking to explore beyond the ship's offerings. I…In episode 128 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy again welcomes John Hadwin from Boutique Tours of North Wales. Known for his exceptional private tours around North Wales, John shares his insights and expertise in catering to cruise passengers looking to explore beyond the ship's offerings. In this engaging episode, John discusses his background in tourism, including his time with Cunard and how he developed a niche in providing tailored tour experiences for cruise passengers. Lear...more
UK's BEST Walking Holidays - Self Guided Hiking Vacations
Walk the charming countryside of England, Scotland or Wales in the United Kingdom on one of these fantastic long distance paths!
Your holiday will be self-guided, so you walk at your own pace on your own timetable, stopping to savor a tea b…UK's BEST Walking Holidays - Self Guided Hiking Vacations
Walk the charming countryside of England, Scotland or Wales in the United Kingdom on one of these fantastic long distance paths!
Your holiday will be self-guided, so you walk at your own pace on your own timetable, stopping to savor a tea break or grabbing a meal or a pint at the pub. Your luggage is transported to each evening's charming inn, so all you have to carry is your day pack.
Breakfast is included, so either stop for lunch or pack a lunch for your walk, and then enjoy a local restaurant in the historic village that is your home for the night.
Meet plenty of locals and fellow international walkers on these famous and historic old trading paths. Since they were the original route that folks moved from town to town, they naturally chose the easiest route, so most of today's routes are fairly modest - and remember that they don't have many high mountains in the UK regardless! However, you will need to train so your feet and body are used to walking long distances day after day.
Walking holidays have become one of my favorite ways to explore a region. Discover why on today's show.
If you are interested in a walking holiday in Europe, I recommend going with my affiliate One Foot Abroad. Email me for a One Foot Abroad Promo Code ( the OFA Promo Code also works for their sister company, Follow the Camino who can help you plan your Camino).
COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about today's show.
Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and 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.
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!
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 the Adventure Travel Show (the "How to's of adventure travel)
SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations)
Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group
Follow ATA on Twitter
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(C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reservedmore
Delve into southern Wales and its evocative landscape of castles, pilgrim trails, and coal mines. Then get a rare glimpse into Central Asia's largest country from a former Peace Corps volunteer. And vicariously explore some of our world's remaining desolate places.
This episode is a joyful collaboration with Tracy of the UK Travel Podcast.
When one of your best friends invites you to his wedding in the Lake District in England, you say yes!
We first met Cham in Cambodia - back in Episode 114 - and we've holidayed with him across Asia ever since, but meeting …This episode is a joyful collaboration with Tracy of the UK Travel Podcast.
When one of your best friends invites you to his wedding in the Lake District in England, you say yes!
We first met Cham in Cambodia - back in Episode 114 - and we've holidayed with him across Asia ever since, but meeting up in the UK to celebrate his wedding was our most exciting adventure together yet. My 14-year-old son and I took the opportunity to explore some more of north-west England and northern Wales while we were there, taking in Manchester, Liverpool, the Lake District, and northern Wales, including Wrexham and Llangollen.
In this collab with the UK Travel Podcast, Tracy interviews me about my UK experience and I describe it through a thoughtful travel lens, from our planning, our experiences and then our post-trip reflection. There's also some unexpected sandwich chat!
Links:
• Tracy Collins - UK Travel Planning https://uktravelplanning.com
• And, Tracy's Global Travel Planning at https://globaltravelplanning.com
• 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/326
Support the show: https://thoughtfultravel.substack.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.more
Meeting new people is one of my favourite parts of travelling, and when these chance encounters turn into long-term friendships, that's just perfection! My most recent trip, three weeks in England and Wales, came about because my son and I were invited to attend the wedding of a dear travelling frie…Meeting new people is one of my favourite parts of travelling, and when these chance encounters turn into long-term friendships, that's just perfection! My most recent trip, three weeks in England and Wales, came about because my son and I were invited to attend the wedding of a dear travelling friend, who we originally met in Cambodia and have also travelled with in Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand - and now England!
This episode features many such friendships, but the most unique is Daniel Troia's friendship with a family in a tiny, picturesque village in the Swiss Alps. He has spent many summers with these now long-term friends, despite not having a common language when he first met them.
My second guest is Rupert Grey who tells of his very special friendship with Bangladeshi photojournalist Shahidul Alam, who he first met back in 1992 when travelling briefly in Bangladesh with his family.
Finally, Tracy Collins tells me about several special friends from travelling, and in particular she highlights some of the many and varied ways you can more easily find yourself making friends when you're away from home.
Links:
• Daniel Troia’s doco “We Are All In This Together” - https://www.weareallinthistogethermovie.com/
• Rupert Grey - https://rupertgrey.co.uk/
• Rupert’s movie Romantic Road - https://www.romanticroadmov.com/
• Tracy Collins - UK Travel Planning https://uktravelplanning.com
• and Global Travel Planning at https://globaltravelplanning.com
• 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/324 Support the show: https://thoughtfultravel.substack.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.more
Although I never studied abroad myself I have no doubt at all that I would have loved every minute of it - and my three guests today certainly remind me of all of the many ways a study abroad experience can be life-changing.
I start off chatting with Pam Petro who studied a graduate program in Wale…Although I never studied abroad myself I have no doubt at all that I would have loved every minute of it - and my three guests today certainly remind me of all of the many ways a study abroad experience can be life-changing.
I start off chatting with Pam Petro who studied a graduate program in Wales, and not only learnt something from her course but began a lifetime obsession with all things Welsh.
Next, I speak with Brandon Miller who studied abroad in France. He has now co-founded the Too Fly Foundation which helps students from under-privileged backgrounds access experiences like study abroad programs, as he recognised how valuable and life-changing they are.
Finally, I talk to Alex Zeringer, who was a student I met while he was studying abroad here in Perth at Murdoch University, where I teach (among other subjects) podcasting - it was so great to catch up with him now that he's back at university in Ireland.
Links:
• Pam Petro - https://www.pamelapetro.com/
• Pam's book The Long Field - https://amzn.to/3KANEOL
• Brandon Miller from the Too Fly Foundation - https://www.tooflyfoundation.org/
• Alex Zeringer - LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-zeringer-532728130/
• Episode 233 Studying Abroad notaballerina.com/233
• Episode 248 Studying in Other Countries notaballerina.com/248
• 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/322 Support the show: https://thoughtfultravel.substack.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.more
