The Travel Podcast

You might think cruising isn’t for you—too expensive, too crowded, or just for retirees sipping tea on deck. But what if everything you thought you knew about cruise holidays was wrong? This episode of The Travel Podcast is here to challenge your perceptions. From budget-friendly trips to five-star luxury, solo travel to multi-generational family adventures, the cruise industry has transformed into one of the most flexible, value-packed ways to explore the world.

Join Hayley as she speaks with Andy from the Cruise Line International Association, uncovering the hidden perks of cruising, from waking up in a brand-new destination every morning to experiencing West End-level entertainment—all included in the price. Plus, find out why first-time cruisers almost always become lifelong converts. Could a cruise be your perfect holiday after all? Tune in to find out.

Think you know Orlando? Think again. In this episode of The Travel Podcast, we dive deep into the magic of this iconic destination with insights from Dave Cole of Universal Studios and our team’s own first-hand experiences. From the immersive worlds of Harry Potter and the upcoming Epic Universe to unexpected moments of tranquillity, we explore why Orlando isn’t just for adrenaline junkies. Could a place known for its energy also offer calm, luxury, and something for everyone?

Discover why staying on-site at Universal Studios is more than just convenience—it’s a gateway to early park access, water taxis, and hidden perks that make your trip unforgettable. We also delve into Orlando’s surprising variety, from colourful dishes in whimsical restaurants to high-end shopping that might leave you needing a second suitcase. Add in the seamless arrival at Terminal C and you’ll see why this city defies expectations at every turn.

Whether it’s magical experiences on the Hogwarts Express, serene hotel gardens, or thrilling rides like Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure, Orlando left our team captivated. But is there more to uncover? Tune in to find out what makes this destination a must-visit, no matter your age or interests.

Looking to escape the winter blues? Who isn’t!? The great news is that RIGHT NOW is the perfect time to book your next holiday. That’s why we’ve brought in holiday trend spotter and sunseeker supremo Emma Holiday (yes, that’s her real name!) to inspire your sunny getaway on this episode of The Travel Podcast.

From the golden sands of Egypt to the lush trails of Madeira, Emma draws on her years of experience finding and booking incredible holidays to highlight 2025's top trending winter sun destinations. Plus, she shares why this time of year is ideal for snapping up exclusive deals and tailored advice from Not Just Travel consultants. Whether you're craving cultural adventures, family fun, or pure luxury, this episode is packed with ideas to fuel your wanderlust—and help you top up your tan!

Family holidays can be a juggling act, but what if you could plan one that ticks all the boxes?

In this episode, Hayley from TUI, a mum herself, joins us to share expert tips and insider advice on family travel, drawn from her 24 years with one of the UK’s most-loved travel brands.

From choosing the right destinations to finding hotels that cater to every member of the family — including swim-up rooms for nap-time peace and UK-standard creches — you’ll learn how to make family holidays smoother, more enjoyable, and filled with unforgettable memories.

🎧 Listen now to uncover:

• Why booking early can save you money and secure the best spots.
• How TUI’s family-focused brands—like TUI Blue for Families and Holiday Villages—are tailored to your needs.
• Tips for keeping both toddlers and teens happy on holiday.
• The best destinations for budget-conscious and luxury-seeking families.
• Game-changing advice for families with kids of different ages or unique needs.

Whether you're planning your first trip as a family or navigating the challenges of travelling with a mix of teenagers and toddlers, this episode has everything you need to make your next family holiday stress-free and unforgettable.

💡 Don’t miss the bonus tip at the end that could revolutionize your family holiday planning!

🎙️ Share this episode with a friend who’s planning their next family getaway, and don’t forget to connect with your Not Just Travel Consultant for personalised advice and exclusive deals.

In this episode of The Travel Podcast, gather around the Christmas tree or cosy up by the fire as we whisk you away to the snow-dusted wonderland of Lapland. Join us and Gillian from Santa’s Lapland as we unwrap the ultimate festive adventure, where dreams of meeting Santa himself come true.

Picture dashing through the snow on a husky sled, gliding in a reindeer sleigh, or snuggling up in a cabin under the shimmering Northern Lights. Whether you’re planning a magical escape for your children or the grandkids, this episode is your guide to creating cherished memories. Discover top tips for staying warm, the best time to book, and why Santa’s Lapland is the ultimate destination for family fun, festive joy, and true holiday enchantment.

Black Friday is here, and the travel industry is sizzling with incredible offers. But let’s face it—keeping up with the overwhelming flood of deals can feel like a full-time job. Don’t panic! This episode is your tropical island of calm in the chaos.

Lauren is here to cut through the Black Friday noise and guide you to the most irresistible holiday deals. Joined by two industry insiders, she’ll reveal exclusive savings, low deposits, and unbeatable offers on holidays and cruises that you simply won’t find online or anywhere else.

So, if you’re on the hunt for a Black Friday bargain, pause the scrolling, make a cuppa, and tune into this special episode. We’ll show you how a Not Just Travel consultant can take the stress out of booking, so you can focus on landing the perfect holiday deal—without the hassle.

What You'll Discover in This Episode:

• The top Black Friday travel offers on both cruises and land holidays.
• Exclusive deals you won’t find anywhere else.
• Tips on how to make the most of Black Friday and Cyber Monday travel sales.
• Why booking early could mean securing your dream holiday at a fraction of the price.

Think you know cruising? Think again. In this episode, we reveal what makes Oceania Cruises a standout choice for discerning travellers. Join us as Louise from Oceania unveils the secrets behind their exceptional service—like having one chef for every ten passengers, boutique ports you won’t find on larger ships and the surprising details that make days at sea feel indulgent, not idle.

Discover:

• The truth about guest-to-staff ratios and what it means for your onboard experience.
• How Oceania’s smaller ships dock closer to iconic cities like Seville and hidden gems like St. Barts.
• Why their cuisine, dubbed “the finest at sea,” is a foodie’s dream.
• The unexpected ways Oceania makes every moment feel tailored to you.

Don’t just imagine sailing the Amalfi Coast while dining under the stars—find out how it’s done. Listen now to uncover the unique touches that transform an Oceania cruise into an unforgettable journey.

In this episode of The Travel Podcast, join Eamonn Holmes and cruise expert Gary Anslow as they delve into Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) to uncover what makes this brand standout. Are you wondering if NCL could be the ideal choice for you, your partner, or your family? This episode will tell you everything you need to know about the NCL experience.

You’ll explore NCL’s innovative entertainment options, such as go-karts and theatre shows, which redefine onboard fun and excitement. Discover the latest additions to the fleet, with new ships that push the boundaries of comfort and adventure. Learn how NCL caters to solo travellers, families, and couples alike, ensuring each guest finds their own perfect way to unwind or seek adventure at sea.

Tune in and prepare to book your next journey with NCL!

Tired of the winter blues and dreaming of sunshine? This episode of The Travel Podcast is all about helping you find the perfect escape from the chilly British winter. Hayley is joined by Emma Holliday, a seasoned travel expert with over 33 years of experience in the industry, to explore the top eight winter sun destinations.

Whether you're looking for a short-haul getaway or ready to fly across the world, we've got a mix of incredible places that offer everything from luxury resorts to unforgettable cultural experiences. From family-friendly destinations with stunning beaches to exotic locations that promise tropical paradise, we’ve got you covered.

Tune in for insider tips, hidden gems, and advice on how to make the most of your winter holiday. If you're longing for warm sunshine, blue skies, and a break from the winter gloom, this is the episode for you!

Get ready to dive into the world of ghostly legends, vibrant celebrations, and Halloween magic! In this special episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley is joined by Halloween expert Amy Louise from Not Just Travel to guide you through the top 5 places around the world to visit for the ultimate Halloween experience.

From Salem’s legendary witch trials to Mexico’s vibrant Dia de Los Muertos, they explore the origins and magic behind some of the best Halloween celebrations. Whether you’re into haunted castles, colourful parades, or ancient traditions, there’s something on this list to make your Halloween truly unforgettable. Tune in for some spooky travel inspiration!