Welcome to Episode 163 of the Winging It Travel Podcast. James invites you on an inspiring journey with Amy Suto, a full-time digital nomad, freelance writer, published author, and ghostwriter. Join us as we explore Amy's remarkable transition from a Hollywood TV writer to a life filled with adventure, travel, freedom and self-discovery.

Amy shares her travel experiences, revealing how her nomadic lifestyle has transformed her identity and played a crucial role in her healing journey from an autoimmune disease. Discover how the simple act of travelling has allowed her to explore different cultures, cuisines, and environments, leading to profound personal growth. From the enchanting landscapes of Greece to the vibrant streets of Turkey and the rich culinary heritage of Italy, Amy's adventures will inspire yours, too!

As we dive deeper into the conversation, we touch upon the unique challenges of building a community while constantly on the move. Amy shares valuable travel tips for fellow backpackers and aspiring digital nomads, emphasizing the importance of minimalism and adaptability in achieving a successful nomadic lifestyle. Amy's insights will inspire you to take the leap and start your own journey.

The Winging It Travel Podcast is not just about travel planning; it's about embracing change, facing fears, and creating unforgettable travel anecdotes that enrich our lives. As you listen to Amy's story, you'll find yourself encouraged to explore your own travel dreams and take bold steps toward fulfilling your wanderlust.

If you're ready to be inspired by real travel experiences and gain practical travel recommendations, tune in to this episode and let Amy's journey motivate you to step outside your comfort zone, explore the world, and discover the incredible adventures that await you. Embrace the spirit of winging it, and remember that every journey begins with a single step!

Amy Suto

Website

The Nomad Detective

Instagram

Substack

Winging It Travel Podcast
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Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton

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Welcome to this audio-immersive episode, where we go on a road trip from Vancouver to Coupeville on Whidbey Island in Washington.

This episode is a treasure trove of travel stories and experiences that will inspire your next adventure travel plans. From the moment James begins pre-packing for the trip, you’ll feel the excitement build as he navigates through border control, setting the stage for an incredible exploration of the Pacific Northwest.

As James recounts his journey, he paints a vivid picture of the stunning landscapes and charming towns. The scenic Chuckanut Drive, with its breathtaking views, serves as a highlight of the trip, showcasing the natural beauty that makes road trips so special. James shares his view of Fairhaven, a quaint town that enchants visitors with its historic buildings and vibrant atmosphere. You’ll then be transported to Coupeville, where the waterfront views and rich history create a perfect backdrop for adventure.

The episode also dives into the realities of camping adventures, detailing the challenges faced in finding a campsite when winging it. James’s determination leads to a successful stay at Bay View State Park, where he shares anecdotes that resonate with any camping enthusiast.

James encourages listeners to embrace the spirit of winging it, reminding us that the best travel experiences often come from unplanned moments and spontaneous decisions. From savouring local food and coffee to the thrill of exploring new places, every detail of this trip is a testament to the joys of travelling.

As the episode concludes, James reflects on the journey + hints at exciting future travel series, leaving listeners eager for more. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest through the eyes of a passionate traveler. Grab your gear + get ready to hit the road!

Winging It Travel Podcast
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Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton

Music by Franklyn Zhao from Pixabay

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/all-i-need

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Welcome to Episode 162! In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, host James Hammond takes listeners on an enlightening journey into the world of travel points and rewards with special guest Spencer Howard, the innovative founder of Straight to the Points. If you’ve ever wondered how to elevate your travel experiences while maximizing your budget, this episode is a must-listen. Spencer shares his unique story, transitioning from a career in politics to becoming a travel expert dedicated to helping fellow adventurers navigate the often complex landscape of travel rewards.

Dive deep into the art of travel planning as Spencer reveals the ins and outs of various credit card strategies that can unlock incredible travel experiences. With an emphasis on flexibility, he discusses how to adapt your travel plans to seize great deals and make the most of your points. This episode is packed with travel tips that will inspire you to think creatively about your next adventure, whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just starting your journey into the world of travel.

Throughout the discussion, Spencer recounts personal travel anecdotes that shaped his passion for exploring new cultures and destinations. His stories are not just entertaining; they serve as a source of travel inspiration, encouraging listeners to embrace the thrill of spontaneous travel. From hitchhiking adventures to budget travel tips, Spencer’s insights will resonate with anyone who has a touch of wanderlust in their heart.

Discover the value of using points for premium cabin flights, and learn how Spencer’s educational newsletter can help you effectively utilize your points for unforgettable travel experiences. The conversation culminates in a fun segment of quickfire questions, where Spencer shares his favourite countries, cuisines, and essential travel recommendations that every traveller should know.

Thanks to Spencer for coming to the podcast and sharing about the points and rewards world. If you are looking to get started, check out Spencer's website for Straight to the Points below, as well as his Instagram account, which has a huge following.

Straight to the Points

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Instagram

Winging It Travel Podcast
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Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton

Support Winging It
Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Merch Store - Here

Buy My Digital Travel Planner - Here

Affiliate Links

If you book anything using my resources link below, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com/resources

Thanks!

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to episode 161! In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, host James Hammond invites you to embark on an inspiring journey with Doni Belau, the visionary founder of Girls' Guide to the World. This pioneering women-only tour company has been empowering female travellers since 2009.

Doni shares her personal travel experiences, recounting how her childhood adventures laid the groundwork for her passion for cultural immersion and adventure travel. With Girls Guide to the World now boasting over 60 unique tours across 40 countries, listeners will learn how this innovative company focuses on creating unforgettable travel experiences that foster connection and personal growth among women. Whether you're interested in culinary delights, wellness retreats, or simply stepping out of your comfort zone, this episode provides a treasure trove of travel inspiration.

Throughout the conversation, James and Doni delve into the importance of responsible tourism and the impact of COVID-19 on the travel industry, offering practical travel tips that every traveller should consider. They discuss the joys of solo travel, highlighting the beauty of different cuisines + the incredible stories of stepping into the unknown.

Winging It is not just about travel anecdotes; it's about embracing the spirit of adventure + the thrill of discovering new cultures. Doni’s insights into the unique experiences women can have when travelling in supportive groups are both empowering + enlightening. This episode serves as a reminder that travel is not just about the destinations but also about the connections we forge and the memories we create along the way.

Doni has travelled to over eighty countries and has a massive passion for travel; this episode inspired me due to her positivity and knowledge of the world. Please check out her links below to start your dream trip today!

Girls' Guide to the World

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Girls' Guide Traveling Sisterhood Facebook Group

Here

Winging It Travel Podcast
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Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton

Support Winging It
Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Merch Store - Here

Buy My Digital Travel Planner - Here

Affiliate Links

If you book anything using my resources link below, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com/resources

Thanks!

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Hello + welcome to episode 160! In this captivating episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, host James Hammond welcomes Leah Arao, a Filipino-American traveller + co-host of the Ticket 2 Anywhere podcast. Join them as they dive deep into Leah's fascinating travel experiences and recent journey to the Philippines, where she reconnects with her heritage + uncovers the hidden gems of this stunning archipelago. Leah's stories from Balabac, an untouched paradise in Palawan, are reminiscent of Thailand decades ago, hinting at its potential as the next big travel hotspot for adventure seekers and wanderlust-filled backpackers.

As they explore Leah's travel anecdotes, listeners will gain valuable insights into the logistics of navigating the Philippines, including the essential need for registered tours in certain regions and the unique challenges of getting around the islands. Leah shares her personal travel planning tips, making this episode a treasure trove of travel advice for those looking to embark on their own adventures. They cover all the budget discussion points, too!

The conversation also highlights the vibrant Filipino culture, particularly through its rich culinary traditions, showcasing how travel can be a gateway to understanding and appreciating diverse cultures. Leah emphasizes the importance of travel for personal growth and self-discovery, making a case for why everyone should consider stepping outside their comfort zones, even if it means starting small in their solo travel journeys.

Listeners can expect to hear about Leah's adventures as a backpacker, her experiences with hitchhiking, and the camaraderie found within the vibrant backpacker community in the Philippines. This episode is packed with travel inspiration, making it an essential listen for anyone interested in adventure travel or looking for travel recommendations.

So, if you're ready to embrace the spirit of winging it and discover the beauty of the Philippines through Leah's eyes, tune in to this episode for an engaging travel conversation that promises to inspire your next adventure. This episode is your ticket to exploring the world, one story at a time.

Ticket 2 Anywhere Podcast

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LAinFlight

Newsletter

Winging It Travel Podcast
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Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton

Support Winging It
Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Merch Store - Here

Buy My Digital Travel Planner - Here

Affiliate Links

If you book anything using my resources link below, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com/resources

Thanks!

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Hello and welcome to episode 159. In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, host James Hammond takes you on an inspiring journey as he chats with Laura, known to many as Lo on the Road. Laura runs captivating food tours in the enchanting cities of Dublin + Florence, and her travel stories are nothing short of remarkable. From her beginnings in Canada to her adventurous leap into Europe, Laura's first solo trip at age 26 sparked a passion for travel that would change her life forever.

Join us as Laura shares her unique travel experiences, including her time as a nanny in the picturesque streets of Florence. She opens up about the challenges and joys of living abroad, painting a vivid picture of her adventures and the cultural richness that comes with them. This episode is a treasure trove of travel anecdotes highlighting the importance of personal connections. Laura emphasizes how meeting local business owners and immersing oneself in the community can lead to unforgettable experiences + genuine friendships.

Throughout the conversation, we delve into the transformative power of food in culture + travel. Laura shares her favourite spots in Florence and Dublin, offering invaluable travel recommendations to inspire your next adventure. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or someone just starting to explore the world, her insights into the food tourism industry will ignite your wanderlust + encourage you to embrace your travel journey.

As we discuss overcoming fears and taking risks, Laura reflects on the lessons learned from her travels. She reminds us that stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to profound personal growth and new opportunities. This episode is a powerful reminder that adventure travel is not just about the destinations we visit but also about the stories we collect along the way.

Tune in to Winging It Travel for a conversation filled with travel inspiration, practical travel advice, and authentic travel conversations that resonate with anyone who has ever dreamed of exploring the globe. Whether planning a budget travel adventure or looking for some travel inspiration, this episode will motivate you to wing it and embark on your unforgettable journey. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from Laura's incredible experiences + discover how travel can transform your life!

Laura's Tours

Website

Instagram

Airbnb Experiences

Winging It Travel Podcast
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Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton

Support Winging It
Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Merch Store - Here

Affiliate Links

If you book anything using my resources link below, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast

https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com/resources

Thanks!

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Hello and welcome to Episode 158 with Lisette Alvarez, who joined me for an in-person interview at Podcast Movement to discuss Cuba. Lisette is a Cuban-American who has visited the country and shares about Cuban culture and how to travel there.

We discuss Lisette's background as a military kid, her cultural identity, and the historical context surrounding her travel to Cuba. Lisette shares her first impressions of Havana, the emotional significance of her trip, and the cultural exchanges she experienced. She explains the importance of local tours and interacting with local people, which she loves, and shares them with anyone visiting the country. The conversation also covers practical aspects of travelling in Cuba, including budgeting and navigating money. Lisette has propelled Cuba to the top of my list after this conversation.

Lisette Alvarez is a storyteller and communicator with experience in international affairs, creative multimedia production, and interdisciplinary web strategy. Her production company, Stormfire Productions, produces storytelling podcasts, and Lisette has an incredible passion for podcasting. Please check out her stuff below!

Takeaways

• Travelling has been a lifelong passion for Lisette.

• Cultural identity is fluid + shaped by experiences.

• The embargo has historically limited travel to Cuba.

• Cuba feels frozen in time due to political circumstances.

• Experiencing local culture is essential when travelling.

• Budgeting for travel in Cuba requires careful planning.

• Connecting with locals enhances the travel experience.

• Cuba's rich Afro-Cuban culture is a significant aspect of its identity.

• Travelling opens up opportunities to hear diverse stories.

Lisette Alvarez/Stormfire Productions

Stormfire Productions

Lisette Alvarez

Winging It Travel Podcast
Website

Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton

Support Winging It
Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Merch Store - Here

Buy My Digital Travel Planner - Here

Final Press Coffee + Tea Maker

Code for 10% off - Winging It

https://www.finalpressco.com/wingingit

Affiliate Links

If you book anything using my resources link below, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com/resources

Thanks!

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Hello and welcome to Episode 157 with Neil Laird, a TV producer, novelist, documentary maker, and avid traveller. Neil Laird is LGBTQIA+ and a multiple Emmy-nominated director of historical films for Discovery, BBC, PBS, History Channel, National Geographic, and many other networks.

For 25 years, he has produced over 1000 hours of "non-fiction" films about the ancient world whilst travelling to over 70 countries. His films feature crumbling Egyptian tombs, lost Mayan cities, and mysterious shipwrecks at the bottom of the sea. Today, we will discuss Neil’s ‘eye-opening’ backpacking trip, what it is like to make TV documentaries worldwide, and why he has changed course to write novels.

We discuss Neil's extensive travel experiences, the realities of working in the travel and media industry, and the evolution of travel over the years. Neil shares his insights on the challenges of documenting travel stories, the importance of local voices, and his transition from television to writing novels. The conversation also touches on the impact of streaming services on the industry, navigating travel as a gay producer, and the joys and fears of travelling to places like Egypt.

Takeaways

• Travelling for work can be less enjoyable than leisure travel.

• Experiences in countries can change drastically over the years.

• Documenting travel stories requires a different approach than traditional storytelling.

• Local voices are crucial in sharing authentic travel experiences.

• Transitioning from TV to writing novels can be a fulfilling creative outlet.

• The television industry is evolving due to streaming services and changing viewer preferences.

• Travelling as a gay producer comes with its own set of challenges.

• It's important to support local economies when travelling to sensitive regions.

Neil Laird

Prime Time Travelers book

Website

TikTok

Winging It Travel Podcast
Website

Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton

Support Winging It
Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Merch Store - Here

Buy My Digital Travel Planner - Here

Affiliate Links

If you book anything using my resources link below, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com/resources

Thanks!

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to this week's bonus episode as I share a new concept for the Winging It Travel Podcast. This is an immersive audio episode about my 20 km return hike to Garibaldi Lake over one night and two days. I share my experience hiking up with forest sounds and hiking poles, my reaction to the fantastic views of Garibaldi Lake, and the ups and downs of camp life. The elevation was 900m from the parking lot, with most of the elevation occurring in the first 6km of the hike towards the campground and vice versa back down the next day.

Along the way, I collected sounds, spoke into the camera for a real-life reaction, and had a fantastic coffee product to share. I combined these with post-hike responses to give you the sense you were there with me on the hike. In this episode, we embark on an unforgettable journey along the stunning Garibaldi Lake Trail in British Columbia. Join me as I hike through dense forests, across scenic meadows, and up to the breathtaking Garibaldi Lake with crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Along the way, I’ll share tips for tackling this challenging yet rewarding trail. We’ll set up camp at the beautiful Garibaldi Lake Campground for an overnight wilderness adventure. Canada is one of the best places in the world for lake views, and this one is no different. This is a true hiking adventure in Canada and one very close to my home city of Vancouver, just over an hour's drive away. This is a must when visiting the area!

I am excited to share this new type of episode with you; let me know what you think. I hope it provides you with that travel experience and valuable hiking tips for Garibaldi Lake.

Final Press—Thanks, guys, for sending me your new French Press design for coffee and tea. I loved it! Check them out below!

Final Press link - https://www.finalpressco.com/jameshammond

Coupon code for 10% off - WINGING IT

My cup of coffee by the lake with my new French Press was by JavaBeans in the UK. They are based in my home county of Norfolk, and we are super fans now! Check them out!

JaveBeans Coffee - https://www.javabean.co.uk

Winging It Travel Podcast
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Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton

Support Winging It
Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Merch Store - Here

Buy My Digital Travel Planner - Here

Affiliate Links

If you book anything using my resources link below, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com/resources

Roaming with Hammo YouTube Channel - https://youtu.be/HAGmHNqGzy8

Thanks!

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Hello and welcome to Episode 156 with Chip Walter, the Vagabond Adventurer. Chip is a storyteller, National Geographic Explorer, + author who takes an epic journey, exploring all seven continents - never by jet. Sharing it one day, one culture, one experience at a time. Chip has completed 600 days of exploring across seven continents and 120,000+ miles so far.

In this conversation, Chip shares his epic journey of travelling across all seven continents without flying, emphasizing the importance of slow travel and deep exploration. He discusses his background in journalism and documentaries, his fascination with human evolution and ageing, and the intersection of technology and ethics.

In this conversation, Chip shares his extensive travel experiences, discussing the challenges and joys of his journey worldwide with his partner, Cyndy. He reflects on Antarctica's beauty, Svalbard's unique environment, and the historical significance of various locations. Chip also provides insights into his travel preparations, including packing tips and the importance of travelling light. He shares his future plans, emphasizing the excitement of exploring new places and cultures: a classic Winging It Travel Podcast episode and the perfect story for this travel podcast.

Takeaways

• Travelling slowly allows for a deeper absorption of experiences.

• The evolution of humans is intertwined with our curiosity.

• Documentary work opened doors to global exploration.

• Travelling by cargo ship offers unique experiences.

• The Vagabond Adventure is a personal pilgrimage of exploration.

• Antarctica is described as otherworldly and breathtaking.

• Svalbard requires caution due to polar bears.

• Travelling broadens your perspective and humbles you.

• Meeting locals enhances the travel experience.

• Documenting travels through writing helps process experiences.

Follow Chip's journey below + his numerous books!

https://vagabond-adventure.com

https://www.facebook.com/authorchipwalter/

https://chipwalter.com

Winging It Travel Podcast
Website

Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton

Support Winging It
Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Merch Store - Here

Buy My Digital Travel Planner - Here

Affiliate Links

If you book anything using my resources link below, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com/resources

Thanks!

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.