In this episode of the Low Season Traveller Insider Guides, Ged Brown sits down with Tomasz Koralewski, CEO of the Lodz Tourism Organisation, for a fascinating conversation about one of Europe's most intriguing and undiscovered cities.

Recorded over a traditional Polish lunch in the heart of Lodz, this episode offers a deep dive into the city's unique history, its remarkable transformation, and its vision for a more sustainable and authentic tourism future.

Key Topics & Discussion Points:

The Manchester of Poland:

Discover why Lodz earned this nickname and how its industrial past has shaped its present-day identity. Learn about the city's 19th-century boom, the rise and fall of its textile industry, and the incredible regeneration of its 400+ factories into vibrant cultural and commercial spaces.

A City of Contrasts:

Tomasz shares his passion for Lodz's captivating contrasts – from the grandeur of industrialist palaces to the poignant history of the Jewish ghetto. Explore the city's eclectic architecture, its peaceful green spaces, and the powerful stories that lie within its walls.

Authentic Local Experiences:

Hear why Lodz is a city for travellers who want to connect with local life. Tomasz explains how the city has avoided the pitfalls of over-tourism and why you're more likely to rub shoulders with locals than other tourists. Discover the best places to experience the real Lodz, from the bustling Piotrkowska Street to the tranquil Jewish Cemetery.

Sustainable & Regenerative Tourism:

Learn about Lodz's commitment to sustainable tourism and how it's creating a tourism model that benefits both visitors and residents. Tomasz discusses the importance of attracting conscious travellers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and contribute to the city's ongoing regeneration.

Creative Capital:

Find out why Lodz is a haven for creative souls. From its world-renowned film school to its vibrant street art scene, the city is buzzing with creative energy. Tomasz shares his insights into what makes Lodz such an inspiring place for artists, designers, and filmmakers.

Insider Recommendations:

Get the inside scoop on the best things to see, do, and eat in Lodz. Tomasz reveals his personal favourite spots in the city, including a remarkable immersive experience that allows you to step into the world of the visually impaired.

Read Related Article Here

Tune in to the full episode to discover why Lodz should be at the top of your travel list and why it's a city that will stay with you long after you leave.

In this episode of Low Season Traveller Insider Guides, Ged heads to a lesser-known gem of Northern Spain: Lleida, Catalonia’s beautiful and diverse region that's still flying under the radar.

Joining Ged is Silvia Vidal, a local expert from Outdoor Adventour, who shares her deep love and knowledge of Lleida—from the snow-capped Pyrenees to the fruit-laden plains, ancient Romanesque churches, and Michelin-starred cuisine.

Discover why spring and autumn offer the most rewarding and authentic experiences in this region, with tips on:

• Gastronomic highlights: mountain beef, olive oil, artisanal nougat, and world-class wine

• Sustainable outdoor adventures: Nordic skiing, hiking, e-biking, paragliding, and stargazing in certified dark sky parks

• Cultural treasures: UNESCO churches in Vall de Boí, medieval castles, and the striking Seu Vella Cathedral

• Why low season travel benefits local communities—and makes your trip even more special

👉 Plan your own tailored adventure with Silvia at: www.outdooradventour.com

🌍 Discover more low season stories at lowseasontraveller.com/magazine

Join host Ged Brown for a fascinating conversation with Rajan Datar, BBC presenter and host of the acclaimed Tourist Trap Podcast. Rajan shares insights from decades of travel journalism, explores the psychology behind our wanderlust, and tackles pressing challenges facing tourism today.

From his transformative gap year in Jamaica to wrestling with Mongolian athletes in the Gobi Desert, Rajan's stories illuminate both personal and professional sides of travel. This isn't just adventure tales – it's a deep dive into what drives us to explore and what the future holds for sustainable tourism.

About Rajan Datar

Rajan Datar is a veteran BBC presenter known for "Rough Guide to the World" and "The Travel Show." He's creator and host of the Tourist Trap Podcast, examining modern tourism challenges. Beyond broadcasting, he's an accomplished musician whose band has toured internationally. His unique perspective combines journalistic rigour with philosophical depth. Learn more about Rajan here

Key Discussion Points

The Psychology of Travel

• Why humans are evolutionarily programmed to explore

• Curiosity vs. fear: competing forces that drive or inhibit travel

• The transformational travel movement beyond transactional tourism

Personal Travel Evolution

• Growing up in "boring" London suburbia with internationally mobile parents

• Buddhist monastery experience in Thailand and lessons about gratuitous pleasure

• Professional adventures: from Mongolia to Rio's favelas

Industry Challenges

• The Tourist Trap investigation into tourism's dark side

• Over-tourism case studies: Hallstatt, Austria's devastating impact

• Industry denial vs. acknowledgment of problems

• Aviation emissions vs. built environment debate

Memorable Quotes

"The source of all human unhappiness is the search for gratuitous pleasure" - Buddhist monk's wisdom

"We are custodians of this planet and we've got to make sure it stays good for the next generation"

"People who are naturally curious are better travellers. They travel with a positive framework"

Key Takeaways

1. Embrace curiosity over comfort - Rewarding experiences come from stepping outside your comfort zone

2. Consider your impact - Think about how your presence affects local communities

3. Travel off-season - Help reduce over-tourism by visiting during quieter periods

4. Seek transformation, not transaction - Look for experiences that challenge and change you

5. Build deeper connections - Use travel to understand different cultures genuinely

Why This Episode Matters

In an era where travel is more accessible yet controversial due to environmental and social impacts, Rajan offers a nuanced perspective that neither demonises nor glorifies tourism. Whether you're a frequent traveller, tourism professional, or simply curious about human nature, this episode offers valuable insights into why we travel, how we travel, and what impact we want to have on the world.

Hi everyone, Ged here, and I’m thrilled to bring you this week’s episode of Low Season Traveller Insider Guides featuring Sahara Rose De Vore. Sahara’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary: from growing up in a non-travelling family to solo travelling across 84 countries and ultimately founding the Travel Coach Network - the world’s first ICF-accredited certification program for travel coaches.

In this episode, we dive deep into the emotional power of travel, the importance of understanding our "why," and how Sahara is transforming the travel industry from the inside out. We talk about how travel can support healing, personal development, and purpose, especially when it’s designed with intention.

If you’ve ever felt like travel changed your life - or could - then this is a conversation you’ll want to hear. Sahara’s insights are powerful, practical, and deeply inspiring. Enjoy the episode!

00:00 – Intro & Guest Introduction

• Meet Sahara Rose De Vore: solo traveler turned founder of the Travel Coach Network

• 84 countries and a mission to transform travel

03:00 – Discovering the Love of Travel

• Childhood memories, first solo trips, and the backpacking catalyst

• Why seeing the world mattered more than a paycheck

07:00 – Lessons from the Rails

• The Poland train incident and learning through discomfort

• How mistakes shape resilience

10:00 – Toughest Travel Experience: India

• Navigating anxiety in Mumbai

• How sensory overload led to spiritual growth

15:00 – Why We Forget the Hard Parts

• Selective memory and the addictive nature of meaningful travel

• Reflections on vulnerability and strength

20:00 – What Is a Travel Coach?

• The difference between travel agents and travel coaches

• The emotional and transformational role of travel coaching

25:00 – Niches & Why They Matter

• How travel coaches serve through purpose (grief, burnout, aging, personal growth)

• Redefining "niche" as emotional needs, not demographics

32:00 – Industry Response & The Future

• Resistance from traditional travel sectors

• Growing interest from agents, wellness leaders, and retreat creators

36:00 – Final Thoughts

• Sahara’s advice: keep asking “Why do I really want to travel?”

• Using travel as a toolkit for life

Connect with Sahara:
Website: https://thetravelcoachnetwork.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sahararosethetravelcoach/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetravelcoachnetwork/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahara-rose-de-vore-4b8bb394/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaharaRoseTheTravelCoach/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theTravelCoachNetwork/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetravelcoachnetwork

The Travel Coach Certification Program:  https://thetravelcoachnetwork.mykajabi.com/the-travel-coach-program

In this insightful episode of the Low Season Traveller podcast, host Ged interviews Stuart McDonald, founder of Travelfish, a comprehensive online travel resource focused on Southeast Asia. Stuart shares the evolution of Travelfish from its humble beginnings in 2004 to becoming a trusted guide for independent travelers, his journey into responsible tourism through his master's degree, and his upcoming ambitious 64-day overland journey from Bali to the UK.

Guest Profile: Stuart McDonald is the founder of Travelfish, an independent online travel guide focused on Southeast Asia. With nearly three decades of experience traveling in the region since 1993, Stuart has transformed from a backpacker and guidebook writer to an advocate for "less bad travel" - his term for more sustainable and responsible tourism practices. He recently completed a Master's degree in Responsible Tourism Management at Leeds Beckett University in the UK.

Notable Quotes

"Travel fish is like an old school guidebook, like a Lonely Planet or Rough Guide or whatever. But only online."

"The pandemic wasn't great for business. I went back to school, back to do my masters at Leeds in the UK in responsible tourism management, and that sort of turned me on to a lot more of the stuff around sustainable tourism and responsible travel."

"A lot of the issues that we face today in tourism are not new... they were writing about them in the seventies in academia... This knowledge has sort of been sitting around for perhaps 50 years, half a century. And the industry side of things, they're only just sort of starting to think about maybe getting on board with some of these concepts in the last decade."

This episode offers valuable insights into the evolution of sustainable tourism in Southeast Asia through the lens of Stuart McDonald's extensive experience. His journey from traditional guidebook writer to advocate for responsible tourism practices demonstrates how the industry is slowly shifting toward more sustainable models. Stuart's upcoming overland journey represents his commitment to "less bad travel" and provides a fascinating case study in making more responsible travel choices despite the inconveniences they may present. Listeners interested in sustainable tourism, Southeast Asia travel, or alternative modes of transportation will find this conversation both informative and inspiring.

Resources Mentioned:

Uncornered Market: Development work in Uzbekistan and Central Asia

In this episode of Low Season Traveler Insider Guides, host Ged Brown sits down with Angelo Carotenuto, the founder of LivTours. Angelo shares his unconventional journey, from a performing arts background and early days as a tour guide to establishing a boutique travel company that champions sustainable, intimate, and truly immersive experiences. Listeners will hear firsthand how small-group tours can transform the way we experience cultural heritage and local traditions, especially during the low season.

Key Topics Covered:

• Angelo’s Journey:
• The LivTours Difference:
• Sustainability and Authenticity:
• Unique and Immersive Experiences:
• The Emotional Connection:

Memorable Moments:

• Angelo’s humorous take on oversized tour groups versus the intimacy of small-group experiences.
• The detailed recounting of a football match tour where guests, including a couple from Finland, experienced local passion and vibrant traditions firsthand.
• Anecdotes that underline the importance of experiencing destinations in a way that allows travelers to truly “live” the local culture rather than just observe it.

• For more information on LivTours and to explore their curated experiences, visit livtours.com.
• Don’t forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoyed this episode, and follow Low Season Traveler Insider Guides on social media for more inspiring travel stories and tips.

In this episode of 'Low Season Traveller Insider Guides,' host Ged Brown explores the historical and cultural wonders of Girona, located in Northeast Spain.

Joined by Margarita Alburna, a passionate local guide, they delve into Girona's medieval architecture, vibrant culinary scene, and rich history, including its Jewish heritage and Roman origins.

Learn why visiting during the low season offers a unique experience, from quiet afternoons roaming cobblestone streets to enjoying local festivals and gastronomic delights like tomato bread and calçots.

Margarita also highlights lesser-known spots in the region, such as the volcanic area and the coastal trails of Costa Brava. Tune in for a comprehensive guide on making the most of Girona, especially during its tranquil and less crowded months.

Low Season Vietnam - Insider Insights and Adventures in Vietnam

Discover the hidden gems of Vietnam with exclusive insights from Chum Pham, the sales and partnerships manager of ITS Vietnam. From the tranquil beauty of Hanoi to the vibrant culture of Saigon, explore the diverse landscapes, people, and cuisine of this captivating country. Uncover the secrets of low season travel and immerse yourself in the authentic experiences that make Vietnam a must-visit destination. Join us on a journey through the sights, sounds, and flavors of Vietnam on this special episode of the Low Season Traveller Insider Guides podcast.

The Underrated Beauty of Low Season Paris: An Insider's Guide with Ged Brown and Jay Swanson

In this episode of Low Season Traveller Insider Guides, host Ged Brown is joined by Jay Swanson, the creator of Paris In My Pocket, to discuss the overlooked allure of low season tourism in Paris. Jay provides unique insights into Paris, revealing the charm of local experiences, under-the-radar spots, and the inviting café culture characteristic of the city. He discusses the importance of integrating oneself into the rhythm of life in Paris, recommending the simple pleasure of people-watching. Jay also touches on the significance of French food and wine as he points out the city's international food scene. He offers tips for first-time travellers, focusing on the balance between tourist attractions and hidden gems, and encourages exploration as the key to a fulfilling Parisian trip.

00:06   Introduction and Welcome
00:30   Getting to Know Jay Swanson
01:21    Jay's Journey to Paris
03:16    Becoming a French Citizen
05:04   The Appeal of Paris
05:33   The Parisian Lifestyle
10:51    Language and Communication in Paris
13:01    Visiting Paris in the Low Season
17:13    Exploring Paris: Must-See and Overrated Attractions
22:27   Hidden Gems in Paris
24:07   Food and Drink Recommendations in Paris
27:11    Final Tips for Visiting Paris

Today I’m delighted to be joined by Claire French who’s the Chief Copywriter of our very own Low Season Traveller Magazine.

In this episode I caught up with Claire on a beautiful Autumn day to find out a little more about life in travel and in particular the background to her wonderful article in this months magazine edition where she endured or enjoyed 9 consecutive days of Ayurvedic massage in Goa. It sounded like heaven to me but as Claire explains, there is a lot more to it than that...

I must admit, I'd be very tempted to go for an experience like this and it may just be what we all need right now…

The latest edition of the magazine is available now in hard and electronic copies on lowseasontraveller.com/magazine and I’m sure you’ll agree, it’s a wonderful edition.

Huge thanks to Claire for all of her contributions to the magazine and for sharing her insights with us today.

But That’s our show for this week. Thanks as always, for your company, and if you enjoyed this podcast, please do leave us a positive rating and review on your podcast app and also don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to be the first to hear our latest low season stories, articles and guides.

Have a great week wherever you are and remember that travel is always better and fairer for the planet, the local communities and you the travellers, when it’s without the crowds…