Palermo – Sicilian City of Stories

In this special two-part episode of Travel Our World, Martin is joined by fellow trekkers Sara and Tom to look back on their unforgettable Everest Base Camp trek in September 2024.What began as a planned 12-day trek through the Himalayas quickly became something very different.After arriving in Nepal with Intrepid Travel, the group found themselves stranded in Ramechhap for three days due to monsoon flooding, washed-out roads and cancelled flights into Lukla, forcing a complete rethink of the trek and compressing the route into just nine days.In Part 1, the group reflect on:Why they signed up for Everest Base CampArriving in Kathmandu and first impressions of ThamelMeeting the trekking group and guidesThe chaos and uncertainty of the Ramechhap delaysMonsoon flooding and the reality of Himalayan travelReplanning the trek in just nine daysAltitude fears, Diamox and mental preparationFinally boarding the flight to LuklaAlong the way, they discuss travel motivations, challenges, resilience and the friendships that began forming before the trek had even properly started.This episode captures the uncertainty, humour and emotional build-up before setting foot on the trail.Part 2 continues the journey from Lukla through Namche, Tengboche and ultimately Everest Base Camp itself.Follow the podcast and come along for the journey.Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.Episode Chapters01:23 Meet Sara and Tom01:48 Why We Signed Up05:25 Arriving in Kathmandu07:37 Thamel and First Day Jitters11:09 Meeting the Trek Group15:20 Guide Hemraj Spotlight17:31 First Dinner and Packing Rules20:01 Packing Mistakes20:41 Ramechhap Road Trip22:26 Airport Waiting Game24:41 Why Lukla Flights Stop26:49 Storms Floods and Doubt30:38 Miracle Weather Break33:06 Nine Day Trek Plan35:37 Finally Flying to Lukla40:12 Touchdown and Trail Begins41:23 Part One Wrap UpWelcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey.Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable.From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel.✈️ Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.🎧 Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London on Foot: Pubs, Markets and Hidden Corners from London Bridge to Seven DialsIn this episode of Travel Our World, Martin is joined by friends Owen and Chris for a walking tour through the heart of London, from London Bridge to Covent Garden and Seven Dials.Starting at The George, a historic 1600s coaching inn tucked beneath The Shard, they explore the city step by step, sharing the places they love and the stories behind them.From the buzz of Borough Market and hidden railway arches to riverside pubs and iconic skyline views, this is London through a local lens, full of character, contrast and discovery.In this episode we explore:Borough Market and London’s street food sceneHidden arches, side streets and independent spotsRiverside pubs along the South BankCrossing the Thames and London skyline viewsCovent Garden, Seven Dials and TheatrelandCoffee stops, pastries and local favouritesWhat makes London such a walkable and diverse cityAlong the way, they cover everything from Uber Boats on the Thames and skyline viewpoints like Sky Garden and The Shard, to theatre ticket tips, transport options and the ever-present London pub culture.After 13,000 steps, the journey finishes in Seven Dials, reflecting on what makes London one of the world’s great cities to explore on foot.Back in the studio, Martin is joined by Damian to reflect on London as both a destination and a place to call home.We also discuss the latest travel news and tech, and check in with regular contributors to the show.Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.Episode Chapters00:00 Intro 01:13 Meet at The George 03:16 London Roots and First Memories 05:30 Borough Market Food Buzz 09:28 Hidden Arches and Side Streets 12:19 South Bank Pubs 12:53 Waterloo Tap and South Bank Culture 18:03 Crossing Hungerford Bridge 18:59 Thames Tales and Skyline Views 24:31 Somerset House Winter Skate 25:54 Getting Around London 27:19 Tuk Tuks Versus Black Cabs 28:41 Theatreland Ticket Tips 30:10 Covent Garden Museums 30:50 Covent Garden Buzz & Coffee Stops 32:56 Pubs and Street Culture 34:36 Pastel de Nata Stop 35:11 Food and History Follows 37:20 Seven Dials Finale 39:12 Wrap Up – London Love 45:42 Post-Trip Chat with Damian46:04 Living in Soho 47:56 Pubs and Soho Origins 49:35 London Facts and Figures 51:31 Hidden London Tips 53:08 Canals and East London Vibes 55:17 London Gripes and Love 56:41 Travel News – Border Biometrics 58:00 Travel Tech Updates 59:56 Wrap Up and Next Episode  Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey.Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable.From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel.✈️ Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.🎧 Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Travel Our World, we explore Vietnam, a country of contrasts where ancient traditions and modern life exist side by side.Martin is joined by Damian, who leads the conversation as they unpack a journey taken in January 2026, travelling the length of the country from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the energy of Ho Chi Minh City,From dramatic landscapes and historic cities to unforgettable food and local experiences, Vietnam delivers something new at every turn.In this episode we explore:First impressions of Hanoi and northern VietnamHa Long Bay and life on the waterThe Reunification Express overnight trainHuế and Vietnam’s imperial historyHoi An, lanterns and coastal lifeHo Chi Minh City and its modern energyThe Mekong Delta and rural VietnamWhy Vietnam surprises so many travellersThis episode focuses on the human side of travel, the people, the pace and the constant shift between old and new.We also discuss the latest travel news and tech, and check in with regular contributors to the show.Lauren joins us with another Postcard from the Road, while Hannah shares the latest entry from The Mountain Diaries.Follow the podcast and come along for the journey.Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey.Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable.From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel.✈️ Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.🎧 Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Travel Our World, we head to Palermo, the vibrant and chaotic capital of Sicily.Recorded on location, Martin is joined by friend of the pod Owen as they explore a city full of history, culture and incredible street food, where every corner tells a story.From bustling markets and grand architecture to raw, authentic neighbourhoods, Palermo offers a completely different side of Italy.In this episode we explore:Palermo’s street food scene and local flavoursThe city’s rich and complex historyWalking through Palermo’s old townThe contrast between beauty and gritWhy Sicily feels so different from mainland ItalyBack in the studio, Martin is joined by Damian, who brings a fresh perspective having not been on the trip but having been to another part of this beautiful island.We also discuss the latest travel news and tech, with a focus on Italy and European travel.Lauren joins us with another Postcard from the Road, while Hannah shares the latest entry from The Mountain Diaries.Follow the podcast and come along for the journey.Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.Episode Chapters00:00 Palermo Destination Focus (On Location with Owen)36:01 Post-Trip Chat with Damian40:39 Travel News & Tech45:38 Postcards from the road50:36 Wrap up and Next EpisodeWelcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey.Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable.From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel.✈️ Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.🎧 Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Travel Our World, we head to Valencia, one of Spain’s most vibrant and underrated Mediterranean cities.Martin and Damian are joined by friends Chris and John as they explore a city where historic streets, golden beaches and incredible food meet the relaxed rhythm of the Mediterranean.From the birthplace of paella to golf courses along Spain’s eastern coast, Valencia offers a brilliant mix of culture, cuisine and outdoor lifestyle.In this episode we explore:• Valencia’s historic old town and atmosphere• The story behind authentic Valencian paella• Golf on Spain’s Mediterranean coast• Beaches, sunshine and relaxed city living• Why Valencia is becoming one of Europe’s most exciting travel destinationsWe also check in with regular contributors to the show.Lauren joins us with another Postcard from the Road, while Hannah shares the latest entry from The Mountain Diaries, recording from life working in a Canadian ski resort.We also discuss the latest travel news and tech shaping the industry.Follow the podcast and come along for the journey.Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.Episode Chapters00:00 Valencia Destination Focus33:27 Post-Trip Reflections34:25 Travel News & Tech38:02 Mountain Diaries – Hannah42:31 Postcards from the Road – Lauren44:27 Get in touch & Next EpisodeWelcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey.Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable.From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel.✈️ Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.🎧 Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Travel Our World returns for Season 2.After a break that felt longer than planned, Martin and Damian are back behind the microphones to relaunch the podcast and share what’s coming next.In this episode:• Where we’ve been since Season 1• What’s changing in Season 2• New voices joining the podcast - including Postcards from the Road and Mountain Diaries• A quick look at travel news and technology shaping how we moveSeason 2 shifts the podcast towards destination-led storytelling, exploring places through real experiences and conversations.Follow the podcast and come along for the journey.Real stories. Real journeys, one trip at a timeWelcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey.Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable.From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel.✈️ Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.🎧 Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Travel Our World is back, and Season 2 starts here.A destination-focused travel podcast exploring real stories from around the world.Season 2 takes you to ten global destinations, one place per episode, with deeper conversations, local insight, and honest travel perspectives from people who’ve been there or live there.From mountains to coastlines, cities to hidden corners, we explore culture, travel changes, and the human side of journeying.If you love meaningful travel stories, practical insight, and conversations that go beyond surface-level tourism, this season is for you.Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.Season 2 is coming soon.Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey.Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable.From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel.✈️ Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.🎧 Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The very last Podcast of the very first Season of the Travel Our World Podcast is here.We bring back a few of our favourite guests to find out how things are in their sectors of the industry and find out about their plans and those of their businesses plans for 2022.Martin and Damian wrap things up and get you ready for Season 2Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey.Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable.From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel.✈️ Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.🎧 Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The penultimate podcast of season 1 brings back two previous guests to discuss the world of Family Holidays with your hosts Martin & Damian. We welcome back Glynn 'BigDaddy' Norris and James 'Top Banana' Barrett, both worked as Hotel Entertainers and worked together at a large and famous British family holiday Hotel in Gran Canaria, where Martin first met them and worked with them during his first reping season.We talk about the roles of an entertainers and other roles in Family Holidays Hotels as well taking a trip down memory lane.Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey.Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable.From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel.✈️ Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.🎧 Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another new episode from the hoists of the Travel our World Podcast. This weeks episode they talk to Miguel-Angel from Valencia and Carlos from Tenerife. They tell us about their roles within their respective Tourist Boards and the jobs they do to help promote their regions to the world. We learn more about what they enjoy doing and their favourite places to visit.Damo brings us more Travel World news.Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey.Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable.From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel.✈️ Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time.🎧 Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.