Episodes

  • Belize: The Caribbean Paradise You Haven't Visited Yet (But Absolutely Should)

    Belize: The Caribbean Paradise You Haven't Visited Yet (But Absolutely Should)
    Jul 1 2026

    Belize has the second-largest barrier reef on the planet, Mayan caves you can swim inside, jaguars in protected jungle, and one of the most surprisingly multicultural societies on earth — and most travellers have never even considered it. This week, Simo D, a Canadian expat who moved his young family to the Placencia Peninsula in 2022, gives us his unfiltered insider guide to visiting Belize.

    In This Episode

    • Why Belize is still one of the most underrated travel destinations in the Western Hemisphere
    • The best time to visit (and what to avoid)
    • Must-do experiences: the Blue Hole, ATM Cave, island day trips & the stunning Hummingbird Highway
    • A 3-day itinerary from someone who actually lives there
    • The one Belizean dish you absolutely have to try (fry jack — trust us)
    • Hidden gems: a secret sunset spot only accessible by boat & a Taiwanese dumpling restaurant in the capital
    • Tipping, getting around, wildlife, and what nobody tells you about the climate


    ✈️ Before You Go...

    - Need a SIM card for Belize? Skip the roaming charges — grab an eSIM before you fly and stay connected from the moment you land. We use and recommend Airalo.

    - Looking for accommodation in Placencia? Find the best places to stay on the peninsula — from boutique guesthouses to beachfront resorts — right here.


    Connect with Simo D

    • 🌍 Expat life: Unfiltered Abroad
    • 🗺️ AI-powered relocation tool: MoveSmart.World
    • 🤖 AI news: Top AI News
    • 🧠 AI tools: BottBott GenAI | Bot Bot Substack
    • 💼 LinkedIn

    🎧 Subscribe & listen: podcast.trulyexpattravel.com

    Send us Fan Mail

    Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation

    Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

    Visas Made Simple
    Skip the embassy lines. iVisa handles it all online—fast, easy, and stress-free.

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Find me on:

    Website: Truly Expat Travel

    Facebook: Truly Expat

    Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

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    Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂
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    26 mins
  • Slow Travel vs Fast Travel: What Stage of Life Are You Really In?

    Slow Travel vs Fast Travel: What Stage of Life Are You Really In?
    Jun 10 2026

    Slow travel or fast travel — which style actually fits your life right now? Paula sits down with returning guests Deborah De Reeper and Jo Hunter for an honest panel conversation about how travel changes as we get older, why the "travel while you can" message might be doing us a disservice, and where to actually go instead of the obvious hotspots.

    In this episode

    • Empty nesters on travel without the kids — and why it changes everything
    • The guilt-free case for going less often but travelling better (yes, business class)
    • Big cities vs countryside — why safety is reshaping where we go
    • People-led travel: the expat superpower you didn't know you had
    • Famous places to skip — and Vietnam, Morocco & rural France as the real heroes

    Episodes & articles mentioned

    Podcast episodes:

    🎙 Christmas in Bruges with Deborah De Reeper — S1 Ep 24

    🎙 Morocco with Jo Hunter — S1 Ep 9

    🎙 Vietnam Uncovered with Stacy McCandless — S2 Ep 6

    Read more on the blog:

    📖 Things to Do in Marrakech: Your Essential Morocco Guide

    📖 Arawan Luxury Desert Camp Morocco: An Honest Review

    📖 A Weekend Away in Hyams Beach, Shoalhaven

    Loved this episode? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts ❤️

    If you would like to hear more panel episodes, let us know by messaging info@trulyexpat.com

    Send us Fan Mail

    Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation

    Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

    Your Data Needs a Passport Too
    🔒 Public WiFi is a hacker's playground. I use NordVPN to stay safe wherever I travel. Fast, simple,

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Find me on:

    Website: Truly Expat Travel

    Facebook: Truly Expat

    Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

    TikTok: Truly Expat Travel


    Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂
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    30 mins
  • Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting?

    Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting?
    Jun 2 2026

    Think KL is just a stopover? Think again. Paula Barnes lived in Kuala Lumpur for three years and is here to tell you why it's one of the most underrated cities in Southeast Asia — great food, incredible shopping, rich multicultural culture, and easy day trips all within reach.

    In This Episode

    • Why the bus from Singapore beats flying
    • Best areas to eat, shop and explore — Bukit Bintang, KLCC, Bangsar, Chinatown
    • Batu Caves — and the monkey warning you need to hear
    • Must-try foods: nasi lemak, char kway teow, banana leaf curry and satay
    • A perfect 3-day KL itinerary
    • Day trip to Malacca
    • Solo travel tips, getting around, and how to avoid scams

    Timestamps

    00:21 Why KL is underrated and Paula's history living there 02:10 Singapore to KL by bus — why it beats flying 05:30 What KL is famous for: food, shopping and multicultural culture 10:15 Batu Caves — the temple, painted stairs and monkey warning 13:00 Best time to visit and what to pack 15:20 Getting around — Grab, trains and the free city bus 17:40 Souvenirs — batik and Royal Selangor pewter 19:50 Tipping culture and money tips 21:30 Must-try foods 24:00 Paula's perfect 3-day KL itinerary 33:00 Day trip to Malacca 36:20 Fireflies and elephant sanctuary day trips

    Links

    🔗 Where to stay in Cameron Highlands

    🔗 My Favourite things to do in Kuala Lumpur

    🔗 Kuala Lumpur in 1 day

    If you’d like to hear more about Malaysia, check out the episode with Irene, where we explore Langkawi and why it’s such an incredible destination to visit.


    Send us Fan Mail

    Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation

    Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

    Find me on:

    Website: Truly Expat Travel

    Facebook: Truly Expat

    Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

    TikTok: Truly Expat Travel


    Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂
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    27 mins
  • Uganda Travel Guide: Gorillas, Safari & Hidden Gems

    Uganda Travel Guide: Gorillas, Safari & Hidden Gems
    May 26 2026
    Have you ever dreamed of tracking mountain gorillas through a UNESCO World Heritage rainforest, tasting food wrapped in banana leaves, or watching chimpanzees leap through the treetops? In this episode, host Paula Barnes sits down with Lynett, a Uganda-based travel expert with over 10 years in the tourism industry, to uncover why Uganda — the Pearl of Africa — should be at the top of every traveller's bucket list.From gorilla trekking permits to the best time to visit, solo travel safety tips, and an incredible 8-day itinerary, Lynett shares everything you need to know before booking your trip to Uganda.What You'll Learn in This Episode🍌 Uganda's incredible food culture — 56 ethnic tribes, 10+ carbohydrates on one plate, and dishes you won't find anywhere else on earth🦍 Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest — permits, costs, fitness requirements, and how to book🐒 Chimpanzee tracking — how it differs from gorilla trekking and why Lynett says it's the "more fun" experience📅 Best time to visit Uganda — and why the low season might actually be better for you🗺️ The perfect 8-day Uganda itinerary — Kampala → chimpanzees → Queen Elizabeth National Park → Bwindi🏔️ Hidden gems — crater lakes, Sipi Falls, Mount Rwenzori, Lake Bunyonyi, and snow-capped peaks on the equator🎶 Festivals — Nyege Nyege Music Festival and the cultural Imbalu Festival✈️ Solo travel safety tips — what you need to know before arriving, including drone regulations💆 Wellness & women's group experiences — yoga, meditation, journaling, and cultural immersion in the mountainsHow to Plan Your TripGorilla Trekking Tips:Book permits minimum 4 months in advance (low season) or 6–12 months (high season)Permits cost $800 (high season) or $700 (low season)Minimum age: 15 yearsDo not visit if you have flu, cold, or cough — gorilla DNA is close to oursWear long sleeves, long pants, and waterproof bootsFitness level: comfortable walking 3km on uneven, hilly terrainChimpanzee Tracking Tips:Morning or afternoon sessions availableDuration: 2–3 hoursMore active, energetic experience than gorilla trekkingDrone Warning: Always declare drones before entering Uganda. Clearance is required — and it's strictly enforced, especially in national parks.Connect with Lynett📩 Planning a trip to Uganda? Lynett specialises in customised safari, cultural, and wellness experiences — particularly for women's groups.You can find her on: YouTubeWebsite InstagramTiKTok Resources MentionedBwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park — UNESCO World Heritage Site, gorilla trekkingMgahinga Gorilla National Park — gorillas and mountain climbingQueen Elizabeth National Park — famous for tree-climbing lions of IshashaKazinga Channel — boat cruise with hippos, crocodiles, and buffaloLake Bunyonyi — wellness retreats, yoga, and scenic mountain viewsMount Rwenzori — snow-capped peaks on the equatorMurchison Falls National Park — dramatic waterfall, giraffes, and big gameNyege Nyege Festival — annual music festival, NovemberSipi Falls & Mount Elgon — Eastern Uganda hidden gemsEnjoyed This Episode?If this episode inspired you to add Uganda to your bucket list, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts — it helps other travellers discover the show. And don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a destination.Send us Fan MailHelp Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpatTravel with peace of mind: SafetyWingsGet covered in 180+ countries with flexible monthly subscriptions starting at just $45.08. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Find me on:Website: Truly Expat Travel Facebook: Truly ExpatInstagram: Truly Expat Travel TikTok: Truly Expat Travel Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂
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    27 mins
  • Affordable Adventure Travel to 50+ Countries

    Affordable Adventure Travel to 50+ Countries
    May 19 2026
    What does it actually take to visit 50+ countries without draining your bank account? John Johnston of The Bucket List Things has been doing exactly that — chasing bucket list adventures across Africa, South America, the Baltic States, and beyond, all on a budget most people spend on a single resort vacation.In this episode, John breaks down his entire approach to affordable adventure travel: how he finds jaw-dropping flight deals before anyone else, why he chooses hostels over hotels (and how to pick the right ones), and how a Morgan Freeman movie started it all.Plus — the story of how he jumped off a sleeper bus in Brazil at 2am while his luggage kept going without him. You won't want to miss it.In This EpisodeHow a Morgan Freeman movie sparked John's passion for travelPlanning active, adventure-focused trips across 50+ countriesThe flight deal services most travellers have never heard of (YYZ Deals & Next Departure)Why hostels beat hotels for budget AND social experiencesHow to choose the right hostel — ratings, reviews, and red flagsPersonal stories from Africa, Brazil, and the Baltic StatesHandling travel disasters with grace (or at least a good story)Upcoming trips: Newfoundland, Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, and Southeast AsiaThe best apps and tools for long-haul travel: Rome2Rio, Hostelworld & moreTimestamps00:00 — Welcome & introduction to John Johnston of The Bucket List Things01:03 — How John's travel passion was sparked by a Morgan Freeman movie02:01 — Crafting personalized bucket list adventures with a focus on activity and uniqueness03:26 — Experience on a G Adventures trip through Southern Africa04:33 — Solo travel vs group tours — pros and cons05:25 — Discovering exotic destinations through airfare alerts like YYZ Deals and Next Departure06:52 — Planning trips to the Baltic States and exploring nearby Finland08:13 — Typical trip durations and balancing travel with budget09:12 — Strategies for organizing multi-city travel itineraries09:40 — How John attracts travel companions through social media10:33 — The affordability case for hostels — and the social benefits11:29 — Staying in budget-friendly hostels that rival four-star hotels12:58 — Identifying and choosing social but non-party hostels14:12 — Traveling with a mix of retired travelers and working professionals15:08 — The quirky fun of staying in unique accommodations16:07 — The Brazil sleeper bus story: luggage goes one way, John goes another21:46 — Planning and research tips for the Baltic States26:18 — Upcoming plans: Newfoundland, French overseas territories, Indonesia & Vietnam28:55 — Comparing travel costs by region and how that shapes trip planning29:57 — How John keeps travel organized with websites, apps & local insights30:44 — John's online presence and social media platforms31:39 — Long-haul flight tips: packing, comfort & sleep tricks33:02 — Choosing the best seats & travel apps like Rome2Rio and Fairy Hopper34:51 — The value of engaging with locals for hidden gems35:01 — Closing thoughts and advice for independent travelersResources & LinksThe Bucket List ThingsYYZ DealsNext DepartureHostelworldRome2RioConnect with John JohnstonFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokThreadsAbout the Truly Expert Travel PodcastYour go-to source for real travel stories, insider tips, and inspiration for your next adventure. Hosted by Paula.🌍 Visit us at trulyexpattravel.com for more tips, stories, and travel inspiration.Send us Fan MailHelp Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpatFind Your Perfect Rental Compare prices from 500+ car rental companies worldwide and save up to 70%. Best price guaranteed.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Find me on:Website: Truly Expat Travel Facebook: Truly ExpatInstagram: Truly Expat Travel TikTok: Truly Expat Travel Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂
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    31 mins
  • Munich Travel Guide: Hidden Gems, Food Culture & Expat Life in Germany

    Munich Travel Guide: Hidden Gems, Food Culture & Expat Life in Germany
    May 12 2026

    In this episode of the Truly Expat Travel Podcast, Paula Barnes speaks with Canadian expat Keltie Maguire, who has been living in Munich, Germany for over eight years.

    Keltie shares her fascinating journey from Vancouver to Sydney and eventually settling in Munich with her husband, as well as the life-changing decisions that shaped her career, identity, and her podcast The Kids Are Childfree.

    We also dive deep into Munich as a travel destination and lifestyle city — from beer gardens and Bavarian food culture to hidden local gems, day trips, and how to experience the city like a local rather than a tourist.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode

    • Why Munich is considered the “perfect balance” of city and village life
    • The truth about Bavarian food culture (beyond pretzels and sausages)
    • How tipping works in Germany (and how it differs from North America)
    • How to get around Munich using public transport and bikes
    • A 3-day “local’s itinerary” featuring bakeries, markets, beer gardens & lakes
    • Hidden gems in Munich including Maxvorstadt, Museum Quarter & local rooftop bars

    Featured Places in Munich

    • English Gardens Seehaus beer garden (Englischer Garten)
    • Monastery beer garden
    • Viktualienmarkt
    • St. Peter's Church (viewpoint over the city)
    • Julius Brantner bakery
    • Baumgartenschneid hike
    • Standl 20
    • Rooftop beer garden

    Food & Drink Highlights

    • Weißwurst Frühstück (traditional Bavarian breakfast)
    • Pretzels with Obazda
    • Käse Spätzle (German mac & cheese)
    • Bavarian beer gardens
    • Apple Schorle & rhubarb Schorle
    • Craft beer at Higgins Ale Works
    • Pretty Pizza
    • Napoli Rush

    Guest Links

    • Website: https://www.kidsorchildfree.com/
    • Podcast: https://www.kidsorchildfree.com/podcast
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree/
    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KidsorChildfree

    #MunichTravel #ExpatLife #GermanyTravel #TrulyExpatTravel

    Send us Fan Mail

    Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation

    Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

    Find Your Perfect Rental
    Compare prices from 500+ car rental companies worldwide and save up to 70%. Best price guaranteed.

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Find me on:

    Website: Truly Expat Travel

    Facebook: Truly Expat

    Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

    TikTok: Truly Expat Travel


    Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂
    Show More Show Less
    47 mins
  • Is Sydney Harbour really the most beautiful harbour in the world?

    Is Sydney Harbour really the most beautiful harbour in the world?
    May 5 2026

    🎙️ Is Sydney the Most Beautiful Harbour in the World? 🇦🇺 Ultimate Sydney Travel Guide + 7-Day Itinerary

    In this episode, Paula shares a local’s perspective on Sydney—the city she grew up in—and breaks down exactly how to experience it like you live there, not like a tourist.

    If you're planning a trip to Sydney (or dreaming about one), this is your complete 5–7 day itinerary, packed with iconic sights, hidden gems, and real insider tips.

    🌏 In This Episode You’ll Discover:

    • The perfect Sydney itinerary (5–7 days)
    • Must-do experiences like the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb and visiting the Sydney Opera House
    • The truth about Bondi Beach (and where you should stay instead)
    • The iconic Bondi to Coogee coastal walk 🏝️
    • A local guide to beaches including Manly and beyond
    • Easy day trips to Kurnell and the Blue Mountains
    • Where to eat, brunch, and soak up Sydney’s café culture
    • Insider tips on transport, seasons, and how to avoid tourist mistakes

    ✨ Why This Episode is Different

    This isn’t a generic travel guide.

    It’s a local’s blueprint to Sydney—what to skip, what’s worth it, and how to experience the city the way Australians actually do.

    🗓️ Quick Itinerary Snapshot

    • Day 1: Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Circular Quay
    • Day 2: The Rocks + Darling Harbour
    • Day 3: Bondi → Coogee walk
    • Day 4: Kurnell / Cronulla day trip
    • Day 5: Ferry to Manly
    • Bonus: Blue Mountains, wildlife parks, food tours

    💡 Pro Travel Tips

    • Best time to visit: Spring (Sept–Nov)
    • Skip the car if staying in the city
    • Use contactless payments (but always tap on/off!)
    • Book ahead during peak season

    ⭐️ Ready to Plan Your Sydney Trip?

    If you loved this episode:

    👉 Hit Follow so you never miss a destination guide
    👉 Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts (this helps more travellers find us!)
    👉 Share this with someone planning a trip to Australia 🇦🇺

    #SydneyTravel #AustraliaTravel #TravelPodcast

    Send us Fan Mail

    Travel with peace of mind: SafetyWings
    Get covered in 180+ countries with flexible monthly subscriptions starting at just $45.08.

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Find me on:

    Website: Truly Expat Travel

    Facebook: Truly Expat

    Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

    TikTok: Truly Expat Travel


    Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂
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    17 mins
  • The Simple Travel Hack That Can Save You Hours Planning Your Next Trip

    The Simple Travel Hack That Can Save You Hours Planning Your Next Trip
    Apr 28 2026

    Join host Paula Barnes as she dives into innovative travel strategies that can transform your trips — from time-saving hacks to must-have apps for planning and on-the-go. In this episode, Paula chats with Michelle from Intentional Travelers about tools and tips to make your travel smoother and more intentional.

    Key topics:

    • The importance of innovative travel hacks that saved time and effort
    • Essential apps for effective trip planning before and during travel
    • The value of intentional travel and how to incorporate it into your trips
    • Practical tips shared by Michelle that can enhance travel experiences

    Timestamps: 00:01 - Unique travel hacks that will change how you see the world
    00:31 - Michelle from Intentional Travelers shares top travel app recommendations
    10:47 - How to support the podcast and stay updated with travel guides
    11:16 - Connecting with Paula for destination inspiration and travel resources

    Resources & Links:

    • Michelle from Intentional Travelers
    • Free Pre-Trip Phone Checklist
    • The Best Travel Planning Apps to Enhance Your Journey
    • 10 Apps that make Life Easier

    Happy travels and remember: the best trips are the ones you plan with intention!

    Send us Fan Mail

    Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation

    Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat

    Travel with peace of mind: SafetyWings
    Get covered in 180+ countries with flexible monthly subscriptions starting at just $45.08.

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Find me on:

    Website: Truly Expat Travel

    Facebook: Truly Expat

    Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

    TikTok: Truly Expat Travel


    Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂
    Show More Show Less
    12 mins