Winging It Travel Podcast

🎙️ Episode Title: Ep 187 w/ John Stuckey at Bear Hug Campers - Building the Perfect Campervan | Vanlife Design & Road Trip Freedom

In this week’s episode of The Winging It Travel Podcast, I chat with John Stuckey, the founder of Bear Hug Campers, a UK-based company known for crafting custom-built campervans that perfectly blend design, functionality, and adventure.

John shares how his passion for travel, craftsmanship, and freedom led him from building his first DIY campervan to launching a thriving business helping others bring their vanlife dreams to life. Based near the South Downs in England, Bear Hug Camper...

Magical Prague at Sunrise, My Cringe Oktoberfest Stories and Travel Fitness

In this week’s episode of Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m taking you through three very different parts of my travel life — the peaceful beauty of Prague at sunrise, the chaotic hilarity of my cringe Oktoberfest stories, and my personal reflections on something I call “travel fitness.”

I start with my recent trip to Prague, one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. After a sleepless overnight flight from Vancouver, I landed just in time to experience something truly magical — the city waking up at dawn. With the s...

Ep 186 w/ Rachel Rudwall - From STA Travel to 80 Countries: Rachel's Journey as a Global Storyteller

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I sit down with Rachel Rudwall, who is also known as Rachel Roams. Rachel is an Emmy-nominated on-camera Host, Producer, Camera Operator, Writer, and Award-Winning Photographer. Rachel has travelled to all seven continents, lived in three countries, and journeyed through over 80 nations. Rachel is also a Fellow of the Explorers Club and has an extensive social media following. I met Rachel last year at TravelCon, where she gave a very inspiring talk th...

My Top 15 Travel Destinations I’d Return to Tomorrow in a Heartbeat (And Why They’re Unforgettable)

What makes a destination unforgettable? Is it the people, the food, the culture, or simply the feeling you get when you arrive? In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you through 15 of the most incredible places I’ve visited that continue to pull me back. These are the destinations I’d return to tomorrow if I had the chance, and each one has its own story, memory, and lasting impression.

Across this journey, you’ll hear abo...

Ep 185 w/ Matt Dennis On Travelling With A Disability: Breaking Barriers, Accessible Travel + Mindset

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m joined by Matt Dennis — a travel writer, journalist, and accessibility advocate — to discuss his inspiring journey of travelling with a disability and how mindset can transform the way we see the world.

Matt, also known as The Empowered Traveller, has been featured in publications like Metro, The Independent, Evening Standard, and Adventure.com. His work shines a light on accessible travel and how small changes in infrastructure, awareness, and attitude can open up de...

The Top Things I Have Learnt On My Travels From The Last 15 Years...So Far

After 15 years on the road and over 75 countries explored, I’ve had my fair share of missed buses, border mishaps, budget wins, breathtaking hikes, and unforgettable friendships. In this solo episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I share the top 10 lessons I’ve learned from traveling the world — insights that can help you make your adventures smoother, deeper, and more meaningful.

From the importance of packing light and learning a few phrases in the local language, to why slow travel beats...

Ep 184 w/ Adventures Matt and Nat Part 2 - Building A Community, Amassing 126k YouTube Subscribers + Authenticity

In Episode 184, Part 2 of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I sit down with Matt and Nat from Adventures of Matt and Nat to explore the creative side of their journey. With over 126,000 YouTube subscribers and a thriving Patreon community, these two have cracked the code on building an authentic travel brand while staying true to themselves.

We dive into how they built their YouTube channel from scratch, the lessons learned along the way, and why authenticity, consistency, and community are at...

Ep 184 w/ Adventures of Matt + Nat (Part 1) – Travel Partners for Life, A Passion for Travel & A Thousand Places To See Before You Die

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I sit down with my good friends Matt and Nat, the adventurous duo behind Adventures of Matt and Nat. In Part 1 of our conversation, we dive into their love story with travel, from early adventures across the USA to discovering Greece and beyond.

We talk about how they managed to visit all 50 states in a single year, the moment they realised they were the pe...

🎙 Why I Travel and Why You Should! – Revisited in 2025

In this special episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I go back to where it all started—Episode One, recorded in early 2021. Back then, I shared my reasons for travelling, my biggest lessons on the road, and my advice for anyone thinking about packing a bag and exploring the world. Four years later, I’m revisiting those original thoughts to see if I still agree, if my perspective has shifted, or if I completely disagree with my younger self.

From my predictions about post-COVID travel, to choosing...

Erin Hynes - Gouda Cheese Market, Den Bosch Canals & Dreamy Delft – Exploring the Netherlands with Pina Travels

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m joined by Erin Hynes from Pina Travels and the Curious Tourism Podcast for a rich, wide-ranging journey through the Netherlands — from bustling cheese markets to hidden medieval canals, national parks to charming historic cities.

Erin’s deep personal connection to the Netherlands, through her family’s roots in Friesland, brings a unique insight into Dutch heritage and culture. Together, we explore well-known highlights and lesser-visited locations, weaving in stories ab...

🎙️ IMMERSIVE - Trekking Langtang Valley in Nepal: Stunning Mountain Views, Himalayan Sounds & Struggles on the Trail

Step into the heart of the Himalayas in this immersive episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast. Join me as I take you deep into Nepal’s Langtang Valley, sharing the raw, honest and unpredictable moments of one of the country’s most rewarding yet underrated treks.

Before the higher elevations and snow-capped peaks, the trek winds through dense forests, rickety suspension bridges, and riverside tea houses. Each day brings something new—whether it’s navigating relentless uphill climbs, encountering warm...

🎙️ Episode Title: 15 Best Airbnb Alternatives in 2025 for Ethical, Eco & Unique Stays

Are you tired of overpriced Airbnbs, endless cleaning fees, and cookie-cutter apartments? In this episode, I explore 15 of the best Airbnb alternatives in 2025 — from eco-friendly guesthouses to house swaps, digital nomad coliving spaces, and pet-sitting opportunities that let you stay for free.

These platforms are perfect for travellers looking to avoid the big platforms, support local communities, and travel more consciously — without sacrificing comfort, connection, or creativity. Whether you're a budget backpacker, a remote worker, or just someone who wants their stay to mean more, there's something...

This week, I’m joined once again by travel writer, YouTuber, and author Dave Seminara to explore a country rarely found on bucket lists — Suriname. Tucked between Guyana and French Guiana on South America's northern coast, this former Dutch colony is bursting with untouched jungle, rich multicultural heritage, and wildly underrated adventure experiences.

Dave recently spent eight days solo travelling across Suriname, from the capital, Paramaribo, to the remote Maroon villages deep in the rainforest. He shares everything — how to get there, where to stay, why the Upper Suriname River is a must-do journey, and why it may just be t...

🎙️ My Journey to Dual Citizenship (Canada + UK) But Australia Is Still My First Love

In this solo episode, I’m sharing a big personal milestone—I’ve officially become a Canadian citizen! After years of navigating immigration paperwork, PR applications, and ceremony dates, I finally hold dual citizenship with the UK and Canada. I walk you through the entire journey—what it really takes, how much it costs, and what I’ve learned along the way.

But that’s only half the story.

I also take a nostalgic trip back to Australia, the country that first lit...

In this Part 2 conversation, I’m back with Aaron Millar, award-winning travel writer and host of The Armchair Explorer podcast. If you haven’t heard Part 1 yet — jump back and catch up — because in this episode, we go deeper into the world of adventure travel, travel writing, storytelling, and podcasting with purpose.

Aaron shares epic stories from his adventures — from descending into a volcano in Iceland to trekking with Shugendo monks in Japan, meditating beneath icy waterfalls and reflecting on the power of discomfort and growth. But this isn’t just about the adventure — it’s about how to tell the story in...

Part 1 - Flesh-Eating Crabs, Legendary Pub Crawls & Immersive Travel Storytelling w/ Aaron Millar (The Armchair Explorer Podcast)

In this wildly entertaining and deeply insightful episode, James sits down with Aaron Millar, award-winning travel writer and host of The Armchair Explorer Podcast — once named the best travel podcast by The Guardian. From epic pub crawls across England to one of his podcast guests surviving a flesh-eating crab attack in South Africa, Aaron shares his most unbelievable stories, creative processes, and philosophy behind storytelling that feels like travel.

We dive into:

A Weekend Camping Getaway to Hicks Lake, British Columbia – Nature Therapy, Campfires & Lake Views

Step into the wild with this immersive audio experience as I take you camping to Hicks Lake in beautiful British Columbia. This is my first camping trip of 2025, and it's everything you'd want from a weekend escape: crackling campfires, misty morning lake views, soulful walks through the forest, and moments of deep peace by the water.

Recorded on location, this episode puts you right in the heart of the action, from the soft rustle of trees to the warmth of a fir...

🎙️ Exploring Train Journeys & Forgotten British Histories with Shafik Meghji 🚂 | Winging It Travel Podcast

In this week's episode, I'm joined for a hat-trick appearance by award-winning travel writer, journalist, and broadcaster Shafik Meghji, as we dive deep into the romance of train travel, chance encounters on the road, and his brand new book Small Earthquakes: A Journey Through Lost British History in South America (out July 24, 2025).

We start with a ride on the Tren del Fin del Mundo, the world’s southernmost railway near Ushuaia, Argentina — a former prison line turned into a stunning tourist route through Tierra del Fu...

A Long Weekend in Kelowna, British Columbia - Kelowna to Osoyoos: Wine Country, Lakeside Strolls & the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre

This week on the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m sharing a relaxing but adventure-packed Easter weekend getaway in Kelowna and Osoyoos, located in the heart of British Columbia’s stunning Okanagan Valley. If you’re dreaming about a scenic road trip filled with vineyard views, coffee shop gems, and meaningful cultural experiences, this episode is for you.

We based ourselves in downtown Kelowna, staying at the centrally located Royal Anne Hotel, and explored everything f...

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I share my real-time experience during a 4-hour layover in Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). From navigating quick immigration to sampling authentic local food, I break down how to make the most of a short stopover in one of Asia’s busiest transit hubs.

You’ll hear tips on how to leave the airport, our experience of finding local street food, great viewpoints around Central Station and ideas on how much things cost. I also dive into a few other fantastic cities around the world for layovers, including:

✈...

Ep 179 w/ Mark Wolters - Honest Travel Tips from Wolters World: 1M+ YouTube Followers + The Power of Being Real

In this week’s episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I sit down with Mark Wolters, the face behind the hugely popular Wolters World YouTube channel — with over 1 million subscribers tuning in for his brutally honest, no-fluff travel tips.

Mark has built a reputation on keeping it real — no sugarcoating, no sponsored fluff, and zero tolerance for BS. Whether you're a first-time backpacker, a digital nomad, or a seasoned globetrotter, you're going to love this chat.

H...

In this final episode of my month-long adventure through Central America and Mexico, I dive into the last stop of my trip — Mexico City — and share how I explored as much as possible in one of the world’s largest cities in just 36 hours. I cover everything from using the Mexico City Metro to where I stayed near the airport, the incredible Roma Norte neighbourhood, and major landmarks like El Zócalo, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and Bosque de Chapultepec.

After the travel stories, I break down my full one-month backpacking budget, revealing exactly how much I spent across El Sa...

Bonus Episode - The Armchair Explorer

Hello and welcome to this week’s episode! I’ve got something a little different—and very exciting—for you. Today, I’m sharing a powerful episode from The Armchair Explorer, hosted by my good friend Aaron Millar. It is called "IMMERSION: Homecoming: Chief Joseph’s Promise and the Flight of the Nez Perce" from the Hidden Trails of Oregon Series.

The episode is called Homecoming, and it tells a moving story about the Native American tribes of Eastern Oregon—specifically, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla. It uncovers a nearly forgott...

🎙️ Episode Title: 3 Days in Oaxaca, Mexico: A Local Food Tour, Cafe Culture & Colourful Streets

In this solo travel episode, I (James) take you through my chilled, food-filled, coffee-fueled 3-day escape to Oaxaca, Mexico — a destination famous for its rich culture, incredible street food, artisan markets, and laid-back digital nomad vibes.

After weeks of travelling through Central America, Oaxaca was the perfect place to unwind before my trip home to Vancouver via Mexico City. Tune in to hear about my stay at a local hostel, my favourite cafes, a mouthwatering food tour, and why Oaxaca should be on eve...

In this episode, I’m joined by Kristina Plattner, the managing director of Kamba Rainforest Experiences, a groundbreaking eco-tourism initiative deep in the heart of the Republic of Congo (ROC). Kristina shares her fascinating journey from growing up in the hospitality world of South Africa to creating immersive travel experiences in one of the world’s last great rainforests. Her passion for conservation, community engagement, and storytelling shines as we talk about how Kamba connects travelers with the lush, biodiverse environment of the Congo Basin—a region few tourists have explored but which holds incredible ecological and cultural significance. From trac...

One Epic Day in Tikal: Exploring Guatemala’s Ancient Mayan City

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you deep into the Guatemalan jungle for an unforgettable one-day adventure through Tikal National Park—one of the most breathtaking and mysterious Mayan archaeological sites in the world.

Join me as I travel from Lake Atitlán to Flores, flying from Guatemala City Airport (not part of the plan!). I take you on a journey into the heart of Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Guatemala’s must-see destinations. I share my real...

🌎 Episode Overview:

This week on Winging It Travel Podcast, I'm taking you along with me to the breathtaking Lake Atitlán in Guatemala! After an epic volcano hike in Antigua, it was time to slow things down by the water. I’ll be sharing my experience staying in Panajachel, exploring the charming town of San Pedro, finding incredible coffee spots, and my disappointment at missing out on paragliding (don’t worry, I’m already planning a return trip!). I’ve got tips on getting around the lake, hostel recommendations, must-try cafés, and why you’ll want way more than two d...

Jacob Lemanski - Cycling the World: A 999-Day Adventure Across 38,000 Miles

What does it take to spend nearly three years cycling across the world? In this episode, Jacob Lemanski takes us on an epic journey through 38,000 miles, crossing deserts, mountains, and countless borders. With nothing but a bike and the will to keep going, Jacob shares how he navigated extreme climates, overcame physical and mental challenges, and embraced the kindness of strangers along the way.

From sleeping under the stars in Mongolia to pushing his limits in the Andes, Jacob’s adventure wasn’t just abou...

My Antigua, Guatemala Travel Guide: Budget Tips, Awesome Activities, Low-Cost Hotels and Great Coffee

Welcome back to the Winging It Travel Podcast — your go-to show for spontaneous adventures, budget travel tips, and honest tales from the road. I’m your host James, and this week I’m taking you to one of the most photogenic and culturally rich cities in Central America: Antigua, Guatemala. This charming colonial town is a favorite stop for backpackers, digital nomads, and curious travelers looking to soak up history, sip incredible coffee, and explore some epic volcanoes.

In this solo episode, I b...

🎙️ Episode Title: We Hiked Acatenango to See Fuego and Chaos Ensued for Nick!

So we climbed Acatenango together… and that was already intense. But then Nick decided to go one volcano further — literally. Nick and I met in El Salvador, travelled to Antigua in Guatemala, and decided to hike the Acatenango Volcano together.

In this funny, honest episode, we recount our wild trek up Guatemala’s Volcán Acatenango — a two-day grind through steep trails, freezing nights, and jaw-dropping views. But the real twist? While most sane people watched Fuego erupt from a safe distance, Nick hiked straight tow...

Hiking Acatenango Volcano: A Brutal Hike to See Erupting Fuego in Guatemala

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to hike to 13,045 feet (3,976 meters) and sleep beside an active volcano? In this immersive audio episode, join me as I take on the challenging Acatenango Volcano hike, a two-day trek near Antigua, Guatemala, that offers some of the most stunning volcanic views in the world. This 14.5-kilometer (9-mile) round-trip hike takes around 5–7 hours to ascend and 3–4 hours to descend, with steep trails, changing climates, and breathtaking panoramas. At the summit, you'll witness Fuego Volcano’s dramatic eruptions, spewing ash and...

🎙 Episode Title: IMMERSIVE Episode - Exploring Bangalore, India: Dosas, Rickshaw Chaos and Lush Parks

Do you want to feel immersed in Bangalore? Feel the traffic? Hear the birds in Cubbon Park? Listen to our reaction to eating dosas? Learn about Bangalore Palace? And more?

This episode is for you! I have added sounds from my trip to Bangalore, alongside my reaction on the ground and post-trip. There is lots of information, wanderlust, and inspiration to get you thinking about booking that trip to Bangalore, India. I love creating these episodes as I can take you with...

Wild Elephants & Coffee Plantations: A Journey Through Karnataka with David Brodie

In This Episode:

David and I were invited by KITE Expo to attend Bangalore, a three-day event celebrating and promoting tourism in Karnataka. Before the event, we were invited on a four-night/five-day FAM tour to see the area's Wildlife and Coffee. Here is what to expect in the episode.

Get ready for an epic adventure through Southern India, where ancient history meets breathtaking landscapes and wildlife thrives in lush national parks! 🌿🐘 In this episode, we’re diving deep into Karnataka, a state known f...

What happens when you book a last-minute trip, hop on local chicken buses, and wing your way through El Salvador? In this episode, I’m joined by traveler and content creator Leah Arao from Ticket 2 Anywhere Podcast and LA in Flight to talk about our experiences exploring one of Central America’s most underrated destinations.

From wandering the colorful streets of Suchitoto to hiking volcanoes, sipping on world-class coffee, and navigating San Salvador’s vibrant city life, we break down the highs and lows of traveling through this fascinating country. We also discuss safety, budget tips, and why El Sal...

🎙 Episode Title: Santa Ana, El Salvador: An Abandoned Art School, Failed Volcano Hikes and Sensational Coffee Views

🌍 Episode Summary:

In this solo episode, I take you through my adventures in Santa Ana, El Salvador—the final stop on my El Salvador trip! From rainy day explorations and vibrant street markets to failed volcano hikes and sensational coffee gems, this episode has it all. Whether you’re planning a trip or just love travel stories, I’ve got practical tips, funny mishaps, and must-visit spots to share.

🗺 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

✅ How to get to...

Carlos Guardado - The Ultimate San Salvador Travel Guide

📍 Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I sit down with Carlos Guardado, a local guide from San Salvador, El Salvador. Carlos shares his personal journey growing up in a country once plagued by gang violence, now transforming into a booming travel destination. We discuss must-visit places in San Salvador, hidden gems across El Salvador, safety tips, local food, and how tourism is reshaping the country. If you’re planning a trip to El Salvador, this episode is packed with valuable insights from a...

El Zonte Adventure: Coffee, Caves, & The Ultimate Beach Escape in El Salvador 🌊

Welcome to another immersive travel episode! This time, I’m taking you to El Zonte, a breathtaking black sand beach town on El Salvador’s Pacific coast. Known for its epic surf, Bitcoin Beach, and laid-back vibes, this place offers both adventure and relaxation.

But my trip had an unexpected twist—Tropical Storm Sara followed me, making for some wild weather! Despite the rain, I explored stunning coastal landscapes, indulged in incredible local coffee, and found the perfect place for $1 pupusas.

🔹 What’s Inside T...

Exploring El Salvador with Local Guide Dave Mendez

🚀 Episode Overview

In this episode of Winging It Travel Podcast, I sit down with Dave Mendez, a passionate local tour guide from San Salvador, El Salvador. Dave shares his personal journey from growing up in El Salvador to moving to the U.S. during the civil war and then returning to his homeland to help others discover its hidden gems.

🌎 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ The transformation of El Salvador from one of the world’s most dangerous countries to a thriving travel...

Exploring Suchitoto, El Salvador: Stunning Lake Views, Delicious Coffee and A-Must Civil War Tour

Hello and welcome to the second immersive episode in my El Salvador series.

In this episode, I take you on an adventure to Suchitoto, El Salvador, a beautifully preserved colonial town with stunning lake views, vibrant streets, and deep historical significance. From navigating local transport to discovering hidden gems, this vlog captures the heart and soul of Suchitoto.

🌟 Highlights in This Episode:

✔️ Bus Ride from San Salvador – Taking the local bus ($1) to Suchitoto and experiencing authentic public transport in...

Welcome to the first episode of my series on El Salvador! Join me on an immersive audio journey through the vibrant streets of San Salvador, El Salvador!

From bustling markets and colonial landmarks to hidden cafés and historic squares, this episode captures the sounds, energy, and culture of the city. I share my first impressions of San Salvador, including its safety, affordability, and must-visit spots.

Plus, I take you on two incredible walking tours with local guides, uncovering the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and modern transformation. Whether you're planning a trip or just cur...