The Travel Podcast

In this inspiring episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley Sparkes is joined by John Garbutt from Cunard to lift the lid on what most travellers get wrong about this iconic cruise line.

Is Cunard too formal? Will you be bored on sea days? Is it only for an older crowd? From the only transatlantic ocean liner at sea to Queen Anne’s future-facing design, White Star Service, West End-calibre shows, and a wellness scene that rivals boutique retreats, you’ll hear how Cunard defies the clichés—and how to choose the right first cruise so you fall in love with life at sea.

If you’re Cunard-curious (or new to cruise) and want theatre-worthy evenings, memorable dining (think culinary residencies), space to breathe, and activities you didn’t know you’d love—without the “stuffy” vibe—this episode is for you.

You’ll also discover the one itinerary that turns sceptics into lifelong cruisers.

Episode Highlights

[01:36] 185 years of heritage: Queen Mary 2, transatlantic crossings, and iconic voyages

[02:22] Meet Queen Anne: timeless elegance, built for the future (and new-to-cruise guests)

[03:50] Dining to rave about: Michel Roux classics at sea and Nathan Outlaw’s fish kitchen

[05:50] Wellness that actually works: Harper’s Bazaar partnership, Wellness Café, gyms & classes

[08:29] A day onboard without boredom: insight speakers, masterclasses, pools & spacious decks

[19:55] First-timer tip: why the Norwegian fjords (or a short break) convert the cruise-curious

[23:46] White Star Service explained: turn-down, thoughtful details, and crew who remember you

Ready to swap “Will I be bored?” for “How will I fit it all in?”

Your Not Just Travel Consultant works closely with Cunard to match you to the right ship, stateroom location, and itinerary—so your first (or next) voyage feels made-to-measure.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

In this inspiring episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley is joined by Emma from Holland America Line and Helen from Canadian Affair to reveal why combining an Alaska cruise with a Canadian adventure creates the ultimate bucket-list holiday.

From glacier calving and whale watching in Alaska to the Rockies, Vancouver, Niagara Falls, and even bear safaris in Canada, you’ll discover how these two breathtaking destinations pair perfectly for a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family trip, or simply chasing adventure, this episode is packed with insider tips, must-see highlights, and practical advice to help you design your dream holiday.

Episode Highlights:

[01:15] Why Alaska is the ultimate bucket-list destination

[02:40] Glacier Bay and beyond – scenery, wildlife, and unforgettable excursions

[04:12] When to go: the best months for weather, wildlife, and value

[05:00] Cruise options: from 7-night trips to legendary voyages

[10:09] Why combining Alaska with Canada makes the perfect holiday

[21:39] Wow moments: glacier cocktails, whale encounters, Niagara Falls, and bear safaris

Ready to combine the thrill of an Alaska cruise with the wonder of Canada’s great outdoors? Your Not Just Travel Consultant can help you plan and personalise this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Think yacht cruising is only for billionaires and celebrities? Think again.

In this exciting episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley is joined by Lewis from Emerald Cruises to reveal how their innovative superyacht experience is bringing this once-exclusive lifestyle within reach. With just 100 guests onboard, stunning contemporary design, and itineraries that follow the sun around the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Seychelles, Emerald Cruises is redefining what it means to set sail in style.

Picture yourself swimming off the back of a luxury yacht, exploring hidden coves on a sea scooter, or sharing sunset cocktails — all while enjoying personalised service with almost one crew member per guest. This is cruising like you’ve never experienced before. Whether you’re a seasoned ocean cruiser or someone who’s never considered a cruise before, you’ll discover why Emerald’s boutique yachts are fast becoming one of the most exciting ways to explore hidden coves, bucket-list islands, and cultural gems.

Episode Highlights

[01:15] Emerald’s background and how superyachts made cruising more accessible

[04:30] 100 guests, 76 crew – the secret to relaxed, intimate service

[06:20] What it’s really like onboard: space, design, and first impressions

[09:30] Facilities that wow: pools, sky deck, and the Marina platform

[12:00] Water toys galore: sea bobs, kayaks, snorkelling, and more

[14:15] Following the sun: Med summers, Caribbean winters, Seychelles escapes

[18:00] Freedom ashore – excursions, e-bikes, wine tasting, and hidden gems

[21:45] Small-ship friendships: why it’s perfect for solos as well as couples

[23:15] All-inclusive value – flights, dining, drinks, gratuities, and excursions

[26:00] Culinary highlights: BBQs under the stars, banquet dinners, and global flavours

[27:30] Wildlife encounters: turtles, hidden coves, and nature at your doorstep

[29:20] Why Emerald superyachts convert even the most hesitant non-cruisers

Ready to experience the luxury of a superyacht without the billionaire price tag? Your Not Just Travel Consultant can help you plan the perfect Emerald Cruises itinerary – whether you’re dreaming of the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Seychelles.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

In this inspiring episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley Sparks is joined by Brad from APT Touring, one of the world’s most innovative touring and river cruise companies. From small yachts in Croatia to luxury river ships on the Danube, wilderness lodges in Australia, and cultural journeys along the Mekong, APT is redefining what it means to travel in style.

With nearly 100 years of experience, family ownership, and a customer-first approach, APT offers everything from five-star all-inclusive luxury to flexible four-star adventures – with unbeatable value. Whether you’re curious about river cruising, tempted by small group tours, or dreaming of Asia’s floating markets, this episode is packed with insights, tips, and “pinch me” travel moments.

Episode Highlights

[01:15] The story behind APT Touring and its family roots in Australia

[04:00] Two brands, two styles: Luxury all-inclusive vs premium flexibility

[06:20] Small-ship and yacht cruising in Croatia – fewer than 40 guests

[09:00] Why river cruising offers incredible value for money

[11:30] The social side: meeting fellow travellers from around the world

[13:15] River cruising vs ocean cruising – key differences and hidden gems

[18:00] The magic of the Mekong: culture, life, and unforgettable moments

[23:10] Wilderness lodges in Australia’s Kimberley – under the stars with the Milky Way

[26:10] Small group tours in India, Sri Lanka, and beyond

[28:40] Insider and signature experiences: cooking with locals, unique excursions

[32:00] Sustainability and giving back through APT’s One Tomorrow charity

[34:45] What’s next: new ships, new destinations, and APT’s 100th anniversary

Ready to plan your own unforgettable journey? From river cruises to wilderness escapes, your Not Just Travel Consultant can help craft the perfect APT holiday for you.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

In this uplifting episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley chats with singer, presenter, and now travel community founder Liz McClarnon about her journey to becoming The No Fly Traveller. After years of touring the world by plane, Liz made a life-changing decision to give up flying and discovered an entirely new way to explore Europe (and beyond).

From overnight trains and scenic ferry rides to tiny towns you’d never reach by plane, Liz shares how her “no-fly” lifestyle has opened the door to more meaningful, relaxing and surprising adventures, and why her growing community is helping thousands of people do the same.

Whether you’re anxious about flying, trying to lower your carbon footprint, or just want to slow down and enjoy the ride, this episode will change the way you think about what’s possible.

Episode Highlights

[01:20] Why Liz gave up flying—after spending years on planes touring with Atomic Kitten

[05:40] How one train trip with her mum reignited her love of travel

[09:30] Why the journey can become part of the holiday

[13:00] Hidden gems discovered by train and ferry

[16:00] Is it more expensive' should be something like 'Is it more expensive to travel without flying?

[18:30] How to save money on rail-based travel

[21:00] How the No-Fly Traveller community swaps tips, advice and inspiration daily

[23:15] Cruising without flying, packing for rail adventures, and what Liz never travels without

You can follow Liz and join No-Fly Traveller community on Instagram:

@Lizmcclarnon

@no_fly_traveller

Want to travel without the stress of flying?

Your Not Just Travel Consultant can help you plan unforgettable holidays by rail, road or sea, whether you're skipping the plane by choice or necessity. Think boutique beach breaks, epic train journeys, or no-fly cruises that start right here in the UK.

Contact your Travel Consultant today to get started.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Have a question, idea or episode suggestion?

Follow the link in the show notes to share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you.

Think trekking in Nepal is only for hardcore adventurers? Think again.

In this episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley speaks with Kitty from Kitty’s Travel and Adventures - a doctor, travel consultant, and mountain medicine expert - about what it’s really like to trek in Nepal.

From preparing for altitude and choosing the right gear to what a typical day on the trail looks like, Kitty shares her first-hand experiences in the Annapurna and Everest regions, as well as her tips for making trekking accessible to anyone with a sense of adventure. Whether you’re dreaming of Everest Base Camp or just curious about a shorter Himalayan trek, this episode is packed with practical advice, insider knowledge, and inspiring stories.

Episode Highlights

[01:15] What inspired Kitty to trek in Nepal

[04:45] How to prepare for a multi-day trek: fitness, gear, and mindset

[07:20] Understanding altitude: what to expect and how to acclimatise safely

[09:30] First impressions of Kathmandu and why it’s worth spending time there

[11:40] A typical day trekking: food, tea houses, camping, and meeting other travellers

[15:45] Essential gear you can’t leave home without

[18:45] Magical moments on the trail

[24:55] Advice for anyone considering trekking in Nepal

Ready to tick Nepal off your bucket list?

Your Not Just Travel Consultant can help you plan your perfect trekking adventure - whether it’s a guided expedition to Everest Base Camp or a shorter introduction to the Himalayas.

Contact your Travel Consultant today to get started.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Think LGBTQ+ travel is limited to just a few destinations? Think again.

In this inspiring episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley is joined by globe-trotting Not Just Travel Consultant Dale to explore how the LGBTQ+ community can travel with confidence, safety, and style.

From the world’s biggest Pride celebrations to hidden-gem destinations you might not expect, Dale shares his expert insights on where to go, what to consider, and how to make every trip unforgettable. Plus, we talk inclusive cruising, destination weddings, and how some of the biggest names in travel are proudly supporting the community.

Whether you’re part of the community or helping loved ones plan their adventures, this episode is full of practical advice, inspiring stories, and ideas for your next trip.

Episode Highlights

[01:20] Why LGBTQ+ travellers need expert advice and how Dale helps his clients feel safe and supported

[04:00] Myths vs. reality: what it’s really like to visit destinations like Dubai or the Maldives

[07:30] Top Pride celebrations worldwide - from Sydney to Reykjavik and beyond

[10:15] Unexpected LGBTQ+ friendly destinations that might surprise you

[13:00] How cruise lines are creating safe, inclusive spaces at sea

[18:45] Planning weddings and blessings abroad and what LGBTQ+ couples need to know

[23:00] How big brands in travel are stepping up to support the community

Ready to start planning your next adventure?

Your Not Just Travel Consultant can help you create a holiday that’s safe, inclusive, and tailored to your dreams, whether it’s a Pride getaway, a cruise, or a wedding abroad.

Contact your Travel Consultant today to get started.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Think accessible travel means compromising on your holiday? Think again.

In this powerful episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley sits down with Marina, Accessibility Manager at TUI, to explore how the travel giant is making holidays smoother, safer, and more enjoyable for travellers with additional needs.

From practical innovations like detailed access guides to thoughtful initiatives supporting neurodiverse travellers, Marina shares how TUI is reimagining accessibility—making it easier than ever for everyone to enjoy unforgettable holiday experiences. Whether it’s flights, hotels, cruises, or beach access, you’ll discover the steps being taken to ensure no one misses out on their dream trip.

Episode Highlights

[04:15] How TUI uses data and partnerships to improve holidays for all

[07:00] Creating more inclusive experiences for neurodiverse travellers

[10:15] Why detailed access guides are a game-changer for customers

[13:30] Innovative ideas like Greece’s ‘Sea Track’ making beaches more accessible

[15:20] Cruising with confidence: what to consider before you sail

[18:40] How TUI’s Assisted Travel Team supports customers from booking to return

[21:50] The future of accessible travel—and how TUI is leading the way

Ready to plan a holiday that meets your needs?

Your Not Just Travel Consultant works closely with TUI’s dedicated accessibility team to create tailored holidays that ensure every part of your journey is seamless.

Contact your Travel Consultant today to get started.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Have a question?

Have a question, an idea for a future episode, or a guest you’d love to hear from? Just follow this link in to share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you.

In this inspiring episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley sits down with Jo, one of our experienced Travel Consultants, to uncover two of the world’s most surprising hidden gems: Belize and Guatemala.

From rainforest lodges alive with toucans and howler monkeys to ancient Mayan cities and diving with dolphins, Jo shares how this family adventure became truly life-changing, and why she believes more travellers should experience it for themselves.

Whether you’re craving authentic culture, astonishing wildlife, or simply a place that feels undiscovered, this conversation will open your eyes to a side of Central America you won’t find in the brochures.

Episode Highlights

[01:30] Why Belize and Guatemala captivated Jo’s family and how the trip transformed them

[04:20] Crossing borders on foot and stepping into a completely different world

[07:10] The rainforest mornings, Mayan temples and unexpected moments that made the journey unforgettable

[10:15] What surprised them about the food, the culture and the warmth of the people

[13:00] Why these countries are perfect for wildlife lovers and adventurous families

[16:30] When to go and why timing can make all the difference

[20:00] How travelling with a local guide unlocked hidden experiences

Ready to plan your own Central American adventure?

Your Not Just Travel Consultant can help you create a tailor-made itinerary through Belize, Guatemala or anywhere else that inspires you.

Contact your Travel Consultant today to get started.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Have a question?

Have a question, an idea for a future episode, or a guest you’d love to hear from? Just follow this link in to share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you.

Think river cruising is just a slow meander for retirees? Think again.

In this episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley sits down with Kerry from Emerald Cruises to uncover a side of river cruising most travellers never imagine—where cutting-edge design meets relaxed luxury and every day brings a fresh discovery.

From surprising onboard spaces you won’t believe to a sense of freedom you won’t find on bigger ships, this conversation reveals why more people are swapping ocean liners for something altogether more rewarding. Whether you’re curious about your first river cruise or ready to see Europe from a new perspective, you’ll find plenty here to inspire your next adventure.

Episode Highlights

[01:15] What sets Emerald apart from every other river cruise line

[03:30] Why the atmosphere onboard feels so different

[06:00] Unexpected experiences that surprise even seasoned travellers

[09:15] A closer look at Emerald’s lesser-known itineraries

[12:45] Tips to make the most of your time on and off the ship

[16:30] How river cruising can quickly become an irresistible habit

Ready to discover river cruising reimagined?

Your Not Just Travel Consultant can help you plan a tailor-made river cruise journey - whether you’re dreaming of effortless luxury, active exploration, or simply a fresh way to see Europe.

Contact your Travel Consultant today to get started.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Have a question?

Have a question, an idea for a future episode, or a guest you’d love to hear from? Just follow this link in to share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you.