the getAwayZ Podcast

23 Episodes
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By: the getAwayZ

Welcome to The Getawayz! We’re Erin and Lisa—friends and roommates who moved from the U.S. to Europe in 2017. With Erin’s teenage son and Lisa’s dog, Rex. We’ve spent years traveling across the continent, uncovering hidden gems and navigating the quirks of life abroad.Our podcast is all about sharing the adventures of exploring Europe, from finding dog-friendly destinations to discovering activities that keep a teenager engaged. We bring you personal stories, practical travel tips, and an honest look at what it’s like to live and wander as migrants in Europe.

Exploring the Amalfi Coast
#23
Yesterday at 8:00 AM

The Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s most famous stretches of coastline and after three trips, we still find new reasons to love it. In this episode, we are sharing what worked and what did not, where we stayed, our favorite boat days and beaches, and the meals we keep going back for. We will take you from Capri to Positano to Massa Lubrense, with plenty of practical tips along the way. If you are planning an Amalfi Coast trip or dreaming about one, this episode is for you.


Summer in Sicily: Best Towns, Beaches & Food for Your Italian Getaway
#22
06/02/2025

We’ve been to Sicily more than once, and every time, we love it even more. In this episode, we’re talking our favorite towns, beaches, foods, and stories from multiple summer trips across the island. From our apartment near Syracuse during covid summer, to our favorite spots in Ragusa and Marsala, cooking classes in Taormina, and the best pizza we have ever had in Palermo. This is our personal guide to a slow, sun-soaked Sicilian summer. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, this episode has all the details you need to fall in love with S...


Exploring Liguria, Italy: Best Towns, Activities & Family Travel Tips
#21
05/26/2025

Sunshine, snorkeling, and seaside snacks—what more could you want? In this episode, we’re diving into our favorite experiences along the Ligurian coast. From biking the tunnels between Levanto and Bonassola to walking to Portofino from Santa Margherita and indulging in unforgettable meals in Monterosso and beyond, it’s our perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Plus, we share where we stayed (hello, Lido Palace Hotel) and what made this Italian Riviera trip so good we keep going back.


Corsica Uncovered: Beaches, Canyoning, and Natural Pools
#20
05/18/2025

We spent three weeks exploring Corsica, from the beaches of Ajaccio to Cervione and the iconic coastline near Porto-Vecchio. In this episode, we share our favorite beaches, the hidden natural pools inland, and the adrenaline rush of canyoning. Whether you’re planning a Corsica itinerary or just dreaming of your next Mediterranean escape, this episode is packed with real experiences, travel tips, and the best things to do in Corsica. Read more about Corsica here.


Sardinia Unfiltered: Our Three Trips to Italy’s Island Escape
#19
05/12/2025

In this episode, we’re taking you to one of our favorite repeat destinations—Sardinia. From a quiet beach escape during the 2020 pandemic to a luxury stay in Porto Cervo, and a full month exploring the island in 2024, we’re sharing everything we loved, where we stayed, and the beaches worth planning a trip around. 


Best Beaches in Croatia: No Sand, No Problem
#18
05/05/2025

We’re talking real Croatian beach days — rocky coves, steep hikes, sea urchins, inflatable obstacle courses, and a few places we almost turned around (but didn’t). From Dubrovnik to Split, Pag to Lopud, here’s where we swam, lounged, and said “okay, this was totally worth it.” Plus: full moon swims, surprise boat lunches, and how clear water turns you into a snorkel person whether you meant to be or not.


Italian Lakes: Paddle Boats, Clooney Villa, and Gelato Stops
#17
04/28/2025

In this episode of The Getawayz Podcast, Erin, Dylan and Lisa explore Italy’s northern lake region — from renting paddle boats on Lake Garda to wandering the streets of Bellagio on Lake Como. Along the way, they share stories about lakeside towns, ferry rides, swimming spots, and a certain celebrity villa sighting. Plus: where to stay, what to eat, and why the Italian lakes are the perfect place to slow down and stay a while. 🇮🇹🌊🍦


Europe’s Best Theme Parks: Thrills, Haunted Rides, and Hidden Gems
#16
04/21/2025

In this episode of The Getawayz Podcast, Erin, Lisa, and Dylan dive into their favorite theme parks across Europe — from haunted houses and flying rollercoasters to charming fairytale forests and a secret swan ride. Whether you love the adrenaline of FLY at Phantasialand, the storybook magic of Efteling, or the wild vertical drop at Ferrari Land, we've got something for every type of theme park fan. Plus: where to bring your dog, where to stay, what to eat, and the one park that made everyone clap at the end. 🎢🌍🎡


Amsterdam: Yes or No? (Spoiler: It’s a Yes.)
#15
04/14/2025

In this episode, We're diving into our time in Amsterdam — the canals, the chaos, the charm — and answering the big question: is it actually worth visiting? (Spoiler alert: yes. Always yes.)

We’ll share what we loved, what surprised us, how it felt visiting with a teen, and a few places that didn’t quite live up to the hype. Plus, fair warning: my Dutch pronunciation is truly tragic — but I powered through for the love of stroopwafels.

So grab your bike (or don’t, we have thoughts), and let’s talk Amsterdam. You can read more abou...


This or That: European Travel Edition
04/07/2025

Airbnb or hotel? Train, plane, or rental car? Tip or no tip? In this episode, we play a rapid-fire game of This or That—debating the best (and worst) ways to travel around Europe. As two Americans living in the Netherlands, we’ve got opinions—and stories—from real life on the road. We cover everything from public transit and shoulder season to drinking tap water and what to wear in churches. It’s fast, fun, and full of travel wisdom.


Danish Delights: Exploring Copenhagen, Odense & Aarhus with Kids and a Dog
#13
03/31/2025

Join us as we explore Denmark’s most family-friendly cities — Copenhagen, Odense, and Aarhus — with a teenager, a dog, and a taste for adventure. From trampolines and castles to rainbow rooftops and baby moose sightings (yes, really), this episode covers our favorite spots, dog-friendly finds, and travel tips for making the most of Denmark with kids. Whether you’re into Viking museums, beaches, or ziplining through castle gardens, Denmark has something for you.


Living in Europe: The Good, the Weird, and the Totally Unexpected
#12
03/24/2025

In this episode, Erin, Lisa, and Dylan sit down to ask each other the real questions about life in Europe—from surprising cultural differences to what they miss (or don’t) about life in the US. We also answer listener questions about moving abroad, navigating daily life, and what it’s really like raising a teen in another country. Expect laughs, honest moments, and a little culture shock.

Whether you're dreaming of a move across the pond or already living it, this episode is full of insight, stories, and the occasional “Wait… what?” moment.


Innsbruck & Aqua Dome: The Ultimate Austrian Escape (Winter & Beyond!)
#11
03/17/2025

Whether it’s a snowy winter wonderland or a summer mountain retreat, Innsbruck and Aqua Dome deliver the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. In this episode of The Getawayz Podcast, we’re sharing our favorite things to do in Innsbruck, from skiing and cable cars to charming Old Town strolls. Then, we’re diving into Austria’s Aqua Dome, where steaming thermal pools meet jaw-dropping alpine views.

🌟 Whether you're planning a cozy winter getaway or a summer escape, we’ve got you covered!


Venice, Italy: Gondolas, Glass-Blowing & the Best Spritz
#10
03/10/2025

Venice is one of those places that never gets old—literally, it’s sinking, but that’s a conversation for another day. In this episode, we dive into our many visits to the floating city, from first-time tourist must-dos to hidden gems we’ve discovered over the years. We reminisce about staying at the legendary Gritti Palace, Lisa’s unexpected gondolier friendship (because, of course, that happened), and the time Erin and Dylan experienced an eerily empty Venice during COVID.

We also chat about the best times to visit (spoiler: not summer), why the Select Spritz beats Aperol, an...


Easter Across Europe: Traditions, Chocolate, and Unexpected Celebrations
#9
03/03/2025

🐣 From fireworks in Florence to lockdown Easters in Torino, we’ve spent Easter in some of the most unique places across Europe. In this episode, we’re sharing our experiences celebrating in Florence, Colmar, Torino, Zagreb, Versailles, and Rotterdam, diving into the local traditions, festive foods, and the moments that made each Easter unforgettable.

🚲 Whether it’s hunting for giant chocolate eggs in Italy, wandering Easter markets in France, or experiencing colorful Croatian egg displays, every country has its own way of celebrating. Some were magical, some were...well, spent indoors thanks to lockdowns (looking at you, 2020).

🥚 Join...


Springtime in the Netherlands: Tulips, Festivals & Hidden Gems
#8
02/24/2025

Spring in the Netherlands is pure magic—tulip fields in full bloom, windmills turning in the breeze, and festivals bringing the country to life. In this episode, we take you through the must-see spring events, including Keukenhof Gardens, King’s Day, and the Flower Parade, plus hidden gems like biking through tulip fields, exploring charming small towns, and experiencing unique Dutch traditions. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of Dutch springtime, this episode is packed with travel tips, fun stories, and insider recommendations.

🎧 Tune in and get ready to fall in love with spring in the Net...


Carnevale: Confetti, Costumes, and Celebrations Across Europe
#7
02/17/2025

Carnevale isn’t just a party—it’s an explosion of color, history, and enough confetti to find in your shoes weeks later. In this episode, we take you through our favorite Carnevale celebrations we have experienced in Florence, San Gimignano, Rivoli, and Foiano della Chiana, sharing our favorite stories, quirky traditions, and, of course, the delicious fried treats that make this time of year unforgettable. Plus, we dive into how Carnevale spread across Europe, from the masked elegance of Venice to the satirical floats of Germany and beyond. Grab your mask, dodge the flying confetti, and tune in for a...


Leaving the USA: Our Journey to a New Life in Italy
#6
02/10/2025

In this episode of The Getawayz Podcast, we share the story of why we left the USA and what it was really like to move to Italy. From the emotional decision to start fresh in a new country to the logistics of relocating with a child and a dog, we’re diving into the highs, the challenges, and everything in between. If you’ve ever dreamed of moving abroad, this episode is packed with real talk, helpful insights, and lessons learned. Join us on our journey to la dolce vita! 🇮🇹 Read more about or move here, here and here.


Living La Dolce Vita: Our Year in Florence
#5
01/27/2025

In this episode of The Getawayz Podcast, we’re taking you to Florence, Italy—the city we called home for a year when we first moved to Europe. From navigating the bustling crowds of the Renaissance capital to discovering hidden gems off the beaten path, we share what it’s like to live and explore in Florence. Whether you’re visiting with kids, traveling with a dog, or indulging in aperitivo culture, we’ve got tips, must-sees, and favorite spots to make your trip unforgettable. Grab a cappuccino (or a Negroni), and join us for an inside look at one of Ita...


Exploring Prague: History, Landmarks, and Hidden Gems
#4
12/23/2024

In this episode, we take you on a journey through Prague, from its cobblestone streets to its iconic landmarks. Join us as we explore must-see spots like Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the Astronomical Clock, and dive into the history of the Jewish Quarter. We’ll also share quirky finds like the Lennon Wall, the Dancing House and a tiny alley with its own traffic light. Whether it’s climbing towers or wandering historic streets, Prague’s charm never gets old. Tune in for travel tips, favorite moments, and why this city keeps pulling us back. Read more about Prague...


Scotland Unplugged: Highlands, Hidden Beaches, and Edinburgh Vibes
#3
12/17/2024

Join us as we take you on our unforgettable road trip through Scotland. From cruising the misty waters of Loch Ness to exploring the rugged Highlands near Nairn, and wrapping it up with the gritty charm of Edinburgh, we’re sharing all the highlights, surprises, and travel tips. Think secret beaches, Highland cows, fish and chips, and why Edinburgh might just be one of the coolest cities around. Tune in for a mix of adventure, laughs, and real talk about what makes Scotland a must-visit destination. Read more about Scotland here.


New Year’s Celebrations Across Europe: Traditions, Fireworks, and Travel Tips
#2
12/02/2024

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in true European style! In this episode, we’re taking you on a festive journey through some of Europe’s most magical destinations for ringing in the new year. From watching fireworks over the Duomo in Florence to waltzing into midnight in Vienna and enjoying festive markets in Prague, we share our favorite celebrations and unique traditions.

Discover quirky customs like Spain’s 12 lucky grapes and Denmark’s midnight plate-smashing, and hear our personal stories of past New Year’s adventures—plus our wish list for future celebrations in Budapest, Edinburgh, and Copenhagen. Wh...


🎄 Strolling Through Europe's Most Magical Christmas Markets 🎁
#1
11/22/2024

Step into the enchanting world of Europe’s Christmas markets! In this episode, Erin and Lisa share their favorite markets across the continent, from the storybook streets of Strasbourg to the twinkling canals of Bruges. Discover the best spots for sipping mulled wine, savoring holiday treats, and finding one-of-a-kind gifts. Whether you're planning your first Christmas market adventure or you're a seasoned holiday traveler, we’ve got tips, traditions, and plenty of festive cheer to inspire your holiday travels. ✨

So grab a hot chocolate, cozy up, and let’s wander through Europe’s most magical winter wonderlands together...