Inside the Dramatic Heart of Wales: Discover Haunting History, Magical Landscapes and Spooky Legends

Ready to uncover one of Wales' best-kept secrets? We’re heading to the myth-filled, magical landscapes of Neath Port Talbot – the dramatic heart of Wales. In this underrated region, local legends and ghostly tales are as abundant as the picturesque valleys and cascading waterfalls. This episode is your backstage pass to the heart of Welsh myth and magic, from haunted castles and historic abbeys to Welsh folklore. Join us as we wander through Margam Castle, a Tudor Gothic Mansion rumoured to be one of the UK’s most haunted spots. Feel the chill of ghostly encounters and hear the eerie tales of a long-lost gamekeeper as we explore its shadowy corners.  We'll also follow in the footsteps of Hollywood legend Richard Burton in his hometown of Pontrhydyfen – a mountain village wrapped in epic views and industrial history, with ancient bridges and a welcoming chapel with a surprising connection to Burton.  We’ll share some of Wales’ best-kept legends, from mischievous water horses emerging from waterfalls to the otherworldly changelings that haunt its forests. Adventure lovers will find plenty to enjoy here, with a surf-ready beach, hiking paths, and even thrilling mountain biking, all with the wild beauty of Wales as your backdrop. Neath Port Talbot may not be on everyone’s itinerary, but this underrated gem is a must-see for anyone craving an authentic Welsh experience. Thanks to our partners, the Dramatic Heart of Wales, for bringing this episode to life. Buckle up for a journey that’s equal parts haunting and awe-inspiring—hit play and explore Wales beyond the guidebooks! **************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Did you know that Halloween’s true origins are rooted in the ancient Celtic traditions of Ireland? This isn’t just any Halloween story—this is a spooky audio journey into the heart of the Emerald Isle, where the festival we now know as Halloween began over 2,000 years ago. Join us for an immersive, spine-tingling adventure through Ireland’s mystical myths, haunting folklore, and fascinating Samhain traditions.   In this special episode, we take you to County Meath, home to the Púca Festival, where history, fire, and feasting combine with the strange and mischievous spirits of the Celtic Otherworld. You’ll hear the crackle of ceremonial fires and feel the chill of ghost stories as we travel to Ireland’s Ancient East to uncover the secrets of Samhain, the festival marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the darker half of the year. Get ready for an epic Halloween experience! We’ll introduce you to the Púca, the shape-shifting creature of Celtic lore, who embodies the chaos and mystery of this bewitching season. The Púca Festival is not just about folklore; it’s a celebration of music, myth, food, and fire set against the backdrop of Ireland’s most historic places, from the towering Trim Castle to the ancient Hill of Ward, where the original Samhain fires were lit centuries ago. Recorded on location, we’ll take you behind the scenes of one of Ireland’s most brilliant and imaginative festivals. Along the way, we’ll share spooky stories, haunting legends, and our own chilling encounters as the veil between worlds thins.  This is more than just a history lesson—it’s a journey into a world where the past and the present meet, where the eerie traditions of Halloween still resonate in Ireland’s wild landscapes. Whether you’re a Halloween enthusiast or a lover of rich cultural traditions, this episode promises to transport you to a land steeped in mystery, ghostly legends, and ancient customs that will leave you captivated. With thanks to Tourism Ireland and Irish Ferries for supporting this episode of the Travel Goals Podcast. Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Are you ready to stop putting off your travel dreams? Join us on this dynamic episode as we chat with Jen Ruiz, a lawyer-turned-travel blogger who made a bold career switch and embarked on a life of full-time travel. Jen shares her inspiring story, from taking on a "12 trips in 12 months" challenge before turning 30 to transforming her life through travel. We dive into why there’s no perfect time to travel, how to make your dream trips a reality, and the mindset shifts needed to overcome obstacles and book that flight! As a TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and award-winning travel journalist, Jen brings a wealth of practical and inspirational advice on how to save for travel, book affordable flights, and embrace solo adventures. She also offers invaluable tips on diversifying income streams through freelance writing, teaching, and self-publishing—all while seeing the world! Whether you’re seeking to break free from routine or challenge yourself with new experiences, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable steps to start your travel journey today.  Get ready to take that leap and live your travel goals now! Order Jen’s latest book 12 Trips in 12 Months and start making your solo travel magic happen! Special thanks to our partner, SafetyWing, for supporting this episode—offering affordable travel medical insurance designed for digital nomads and travellers. If you’re planning your next adventure, don’t forget to check them out for flexible, reliable coverage. Stay protected and explore with peace of mind—get covered by SafetyWing now! ****************************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Think you know Boston? Think again. In this immersive episode, we're taking you beyond the Freedom Trail and deep into Boston's most captivating neighbourhoods, where history meets modernity and local culture thrives in unexpected places. Forget the usual tourist spots—this is the Boston you’ve been missing. Host Portia Jones and producer Luke take you on an unforgettable journey through Boston’s lesser-known spots and local favourites. You’ll also hear from passionate locals who share insider tips and reveal the stories that make these neighbourhoods truly unique. We'll take you to sophisticated Back Bay as we traverse a historic avenue lined with Victorian brownstones, swish cafes and high-end boutiques.   Sip cocktails in a hidden speakeasy at a luxurious hotel and dive deep into the stories that have shaped this iconic neighbourhood. We'll also venture into Roxbury, the vibrant epicentre of Boston’s Black culture. Here, you’ll explore the powerful connections between the neighbourhood’s storied past and its dynamic present.  Walk alongside local guides who reveal the layers of history embedded in the murals, street art, and community projects that define Roxbury today. From soulful eateries to historic landmarks, Roxbury is a testament to Boston’s rich cultural diversity. Lose yourself in the buzzing energy of Chinatown, navigate local markets, savour authentic Asian cuisine, and discover the hidden gardens that offer a peaceful retreat amid the city.  Guided by a charismatic local, you’ll uncover the stories behind every dish and every mural, making this a cultural experience you won't forget.  Whether you’re a seasoned Bostonian or a first-time visitor, this episode will make you see Boston in a whole new light. From secret speakeasies to vibrant street art, this is the Boston you don’t want to miss. Tune in now and start your journey beyond the Freedom Trail.  You can also listen to our upcoming Boston episodes on Travel Goals and on the Boston Found Podcast, a podcast hosted by Meet Boston CEO Martha Sheridan.  Huge thanks to Meet Boston and TTM World for supporting and collaborating with the Travel Goals Podcast. ****************************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.  Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Are you ready to follow in the footsteps of rebels and explore Boston's 250-year-old revolutionary history? Known for its tea-dumping defiance that helped ignite the American Revolutionary War, Boston still has the fierce spirit of a revolutionary city, a place of ideas, creation and determination.    In this on-location episode, we'll follow the Freedom Trail with a local guide, board a Tea Party Ship and speak with Bostonians about the evolution of New England's historical and cultural capital.  Join producer Luke and me as we discover tea parties, poets, and trails on an epic guide around Boston. In this immersive episode, you'll learn about the incredible historical sites you can visit to learn more about Boston's fascinating 250-year-old revolutionary history.  You can listen to our upcoming Boston episodes on Travel Goals and on the Boston Found Podcast, a podcast hosted by Meet Boston CEO Martha Sheridan.  Huge thanks to Meet Boston and TTM World for supporting and collaborating with the Travel Goals Podcast. ****************************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones], a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet guidebook author.  If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox. Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd. Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Are you ready to take a deep dive into Boston Massachusetts with our immersive and exciting destination series? This teaser episode gives you a sneak peek into our upcoming Boston mini-series, all recorded on location. Known for its tea-dumping defiance that helped ignite the American Revolutionary War, Boston still has the fierce spirit of a revolutionary city, a place of ideas, creation and determination.  Here, you'll find a mix of world-renowned museums, storied sports stadiums, leafy parks, historic trails and thriving nightlife. Over the next few episodes, Producer Luke and I will discover what makes Boston so special and why you must add it to your travel bucket list. We'll explore Boston's hip neighbourhoods, traverse Revolutionary history trails, learn about the foodie scene, cheer on the Bruins, and head out to the sea to try and spot whales. You can listen to our upcoming Boston episodes on Travel Goals and on the Boston Found Podcast, a podcast hosted by Meet Boston CEO Martha Sheridan.  Huge thanks to Meet Boston and TTM World for supporting and collaborating with the Travel Goals Podcast ****************************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones], a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet guidebook author.  If you love to travel, you can check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and tips and new episodes of the podcast delivered straight to your inbox Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd. Email us to discuss working together, or with any questions about the podcast.  Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Do you want to travel without sacrificing your financial stability and career? We've got you covered! Join us for a deep dive with travel blogger and author Helene Sula. We discuss how she took calculated risks to follow her dreams of travelling and living abroad without sacrificing stability and comfort and how you can too.  Wanting to get out of her comfort zone, Helene quit the corporate world, packed up two suitcases and two dogs, and moved with her husband, Michael, from Dallas, Texas, to Oxford, England.  They've also lived abroad in Heidelberg, Germany. The purpose was to travel Europe, write about her travels, and encourage others to live out their dreams.  She now has over 560,000 dedicated Instagram followers, 280,000 on TikTok subscribers, and 170,000 newsletter subscribers, and her blog Helene Inbetween, receives 250,000 views every month.  In this episode, Helene discusses her candid travel memoir Two O'Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain and shares the realities—both the magical and the mundane—that come with chasing bold dreams and learning that home is where you make it. For those who fear change, the secret lies in taking calculated risks so that you can follow your dreams without compromise.  Join us for a lively discussion on how to break out of your comfort zone and start travelling now.  Order Helene's new book Two O'Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain HERE ****************************************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones], a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet guidebook author.  If you love to travel, you can check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and tips and new episodes of the podcast delivered straight to your inbox Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Are you a destination or travel brand that wants to sponsor the Travel Goals Podcast? Email me to discuss sponsorship and advertising opportunities on Travel Goals.  Enjoy the podcast and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Dreaming of exploring the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland? We've got you covered with our epic guide to road-tripping the world's longest, uninterrupted coastal route. Join me and producer Luke for the journey of a lifetime as we explore charming towns, wildlife-rich national parks, food markets and welcoming pubs filled with traditional Irish music. You'll hear incredible soundscapes and interviews with locals as we venture into sections of the Wild Atlantic Way to find out what makes this 2,500 km-long coastal road so special. Join us as we uncover the hidden treasures and untamed beauty of West Ireland. From the windswept cliffs of Moher and the rugged coastlines of Dingle to the buzzing city of Cork, our road trip along this iconic coastal route will surely inspire your wanderlust.  With thanks to Tourism Ireland and Irish Ferries for supporting this episode of the Travel Goals Podcast. *************** Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones], a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and guidebook author.  If you love travel, you can check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and tips and new episodes of the podcast delivered straight to your inbox Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Are you a destination or travel brand that wants to sponsor the Travel Goals Podcast? Email me to discuss sponsorship and advertising opportunities on Travel Goals.  Enjoy the podcast!  

Is Ireland on your bucket list? Check out part two of our guide to road-tripping around Ireland's Ancient East. Discover Viking history, single malt whisky, seaweed baths, historic lighthouses, and ocean dips, and learn about a special stone mounted inside a castle. Join me and producer Luke on an immersive journey to discover over 5,000 years of history as we give you the inside scoop on Ireland's Ancient East.  In part two of this episode, we dive into Ireland's Viking history in Waterford City, indulge in a warm seaweed bath on the coast, learn how exquisite Crystalware is made, sip local whisky, take a cold water plunge and hang upside down to kiss the famous Blarney stone. In our five-part Ireland destination series, we travel around the Emerald Isle to discover why Ireland is a fantastic destination for a year-round holiday. With its warm hospitality, storied history, and ethereal landscapes, Ireland promises a journey that transcends the ordinary and will fill your heart with music and laughter. You'll hear incredible soundscapes and interviews with locals as we go beyond the major cities to find the must-see spots you need to visit in Ireland.  We begin our journey in Ireland's ancient east to discover over 5,000 years of history in lush landscapes, winding rivers and glorious gardens. Join us for part two of an immersive road trip journey around ancient sites, world-class attractions and rugged coastlines.  With thanks to Tourism Ireland and Irish Ferries for supporting this episode of the Travel Goals Podcast. *************** Subscribe now to get the new Ireland episodes as they drop!  Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones], a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and newsletter writer.  If you love travel, you can check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and tips and new episodes of the podcast delivered straight to your inbox Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook  Are you a destination or travel brand that wants to sponsor the Travel Goals Podcast? Email me to discuss sponsorship and advertising opportunities on Travel Goals.  Enjoy the podcast!

Dreaming of exploring Ireland? We've got you covered with our guide to road-tripping around Ireland's Ancient East. Imagine a land of rolling green hills, historical attractions, castles and landscaped gardens framed by the River Shannon and the Irish Sea. Join me and producer Luke on an immersive journey to discover over 5,000 years of history as we give you the inside scoop on some of the best things to see and do in this fascinating part of Ireland. In part one of this episode, we'll walk above a forest canopy in County Wicklow, step aboard a replica famine ship, sample Irish cuisine, and hike forest trails.  Over the next few episodes, we'll travel around the Emerald Isle to discover why Ireland is a fantastic destination for a year-round holiday. With its warm hospitality, storied history, and ethereal landscapes, Ireland promises a journey that transcends the ordinary and will fill your heart with music and laughter. You'll hear incredible soundscapes and interviews with locals as we go beyond the major cities to find the must-see spots in Ireland you need to visit.  We begin our journey in Ireland's ancient east to discover over 5,000 years of history in lush landscapes, winding rivers and glorious gardens. Join us for part one of an immersive road trip journey around ancient sites, world-class attractions and rugged coastlines.  With thanks to Tourism Ireland and Irish Ferries for supporting this episode of the Travel Goals Podcast. *************** Subscribe now to get the new Ireland episodes as they drop!  Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones], a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and newsletter writer. I've travelled extensively around the world, and I'm available for hire for travel journalism and podcasting. You can see my online travel journalism portfolio here. Are you a destination or travel brand that wants to sponsor the Travel Goals Podcast? Email me to discuss sponsorship and advertising opportunities on Travel Goals.  Make sure to connect with me online as well. I'm @travelgoalspod and @pip_says on Twitter and @pipsays and @travelgoalspodcast on Instagram. Enjoy the podcast!