#RJKWORLDTOUR Podcast

Recurring guest Phil Taffley and I love travelling, but like everything in life it does come with it’s downsides. At Phil’s request, in this episode, we discuss what those downsides are for us, what you should be aware of and how to manage them. We talk missing family & friends, scams, cultural differences, timekeeping, dealing … Continue reading #112 – The Downsides of Travelling

Dan Shipley joins me to discuss what it is like to watch football on your travels. We talk about our experiences of football culture across the world and compare them to the English game. Is Barcelona actually a cult? What’s better, a Seattle Sounders match or a trip to Morcambe on a Saturday afternoon? Was … Continue reading #111 – Football on the Continent

In this episode, I detail how I booked for a week long trip, flights, accommodation and transport, across 4 cities in 3 countries for less than £300, and how you could do the same for even cheaper. Also, why AirBnB is disrupting locals in certain places. http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801505.us.archive.org/2/items/EurotripPl/eurotrip%20pl.mp3

This is the fifth and final part of the California mini series. In this episode, we discuss the journey back to LA from San Francisco, our visit to Big Sur and evaluate our experiences in California. http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801506.us.archive.org/4/items/PartV_201804/part%20v.mp3

Part IV of the California miniseries details our experiences in San Francisco. Hear about the televised car crash of a sport, that I couldn’t peel my eyes away from, negotiating those challenging hills behind the wheel and whether the Alcatraz experience is worth the entry fee.   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801505.us.archive.org/1/items/SanFranFinal/san%20fran%20final.mp3

Continuing on our California Journey, this episode details our experience in Yosemite National Park. Hear about the amazing, the frustrating and the unlikely. Find out why planning is a must for Yosemite. http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia601505.us.archive.org/23/items/YosemiteFinal/yosemite%20final.mp3

At the end of last year, we took a trip to California to celebrate turning 30. This episode details the 2nd leg of our trip, where we went to the ‘classy’ San Diego. Hear about what we liked about San Diego and what we learned   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia601509.us.archive.org/33/items/SanDiegoFinal/san%20diego%20final.mp3

At the end of last year, we took a trip to California to celebrate turning 30. This episode details the 1st leg of our trip, where we went to the desert. Hear about what we liked about Joshua Tree National Park and what took us by surprise   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801503.us.archive.org/17/items/JOSHUATREE_201801/JOSHUA%20TREE.mp3  

I sit down with Ross to discuss our experiences of what it is like to spend Christmas Day away from home, when you are travelling/backpacking. We discuss the build up, the day itself, the good, the bad, the weird and whether the juice is worth the squeeze. Is travelling worth missing Christmas day for? Available on … Continue reading #104 – Christmas Away From Home

BJJGlobetrotters founder Christian Graugart joins me to discuss how his Jiu Jitsu orientated round the world trip inspired him to start a network, which today has 10,000 members, and enables people to train BJJ around the world for free.   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801507.us.archive.org/2/items/rkearns5_gmail_103/%23103.mp3

In this trending travelling topics episode, I discuss Why Backpacker favourite Milford Sound has become number 2 in some visitor’s opinions There’s developments on the Backpacker Tax and farm work fronts How Elon Musk plans to help us travel anywhere in the world in less than an hour for the price of a standard air … Continue reading #102 – Is Milford Sound going down the Toilet?

Cage Warriors MMA fighter Josh Hudson joins me to discuss his time surfing in Sri Lanka. We talk, Columbo, wild cross country journeys, the best spots to surf around Arugam Bay, the night life, surfing around the world and much more. As usual, available on iTunes, through the website or podcast addict for android users … Continue reading #101 – Surfing in Sri Lanka

2 time Commonwealth Judo Champion and Jiu Jitsu Black Belt Craig Ewers joins me to discuss how Martial Arts have taken him all over the world though training and competing. Craig shares many tales from Japan, Russia, Brazil and the USA. Hear about a humbling experience in a remote Japanese town, sharing a room with … Continue reading #100 – Around the World in 80 Throws

Hayley joins me to discuss: Why taking a Beer Selfie in Thailand could put you in prison A Backpacker Hostel in New Zealand that has taken extreme measures to improve the behavior of it’s guests And a potential Nudist Beach on the horizon in Saudi Arabia http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801506.us.archive.org/3/items/99SelfiesThatKill/%2399%20-%20Selfies%20that%20Kill.mp3

Phil Taffley returns to the show to talk about a recent trip to the unheralded Latvia and Lithuania http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801500.us.archive.org/22/items/98LatviaAndLithu/%2398%20-%20Latvia%20and%20Lithu.mp3

The Kid is Back!!! This week I discuss A recent video demonstrating some poor customer service on a Vietnamese tourist bus Thailand’s revolt against Begpackers Why people immediately stand up once plane has landed and the unfasten seatbelt light has come on, when they are in a window seat in row 30 http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia601503.us.archive.org/10/items/97TTT/%2397%20-%20TTT.mp3

I recall my 1st trip back to London since my night at London Bridge during the unfortunate terrorist attacks. The weekend was very much travel and podcast related. I also cover some of the latest news coming out of the travel and backpacking world.   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801500.us.archive.org/25/items/96ReturnToLondon/%2396%20-%20Return%20to%20London.mp3

Nope, this is not about buying half price Vienettas, Hayley joins me to review our recent trip to Iceland and discuss 5 different ways we saved some serious money. As well as some budgeting tips, hear about: How this trip nearly didn’t happen Experiencing Iceland’s record snowfall since 1937 Why you shouldn’t necessarily visit the … Continue reading #95 – 5 Ways To Save Money in Iceland

PLEASE DO NOT SHARE THIS POST. THIS IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO GET LIKES AND VIEWS OFF THE BACK OF THIS HORRIFIC EVENT. On Saturday night, I was at London Bridge during the terror attacks. I recall the how the events played out from my point of view. Thank you to the police who kept … Continue reading #94 – London Terror Attack, My Account

I take a look at how past experiences abroad have given me a greater understanding of the fallout from the Manchester tragedy and the upcoming UK general election. http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801508.us.archive.org/9/items/93TTT/%2393%20-%20TTT.mp3

On this weeks episode I discuss the top 10 most liveble cities in the world according to a recent study why you should travel by following your passion how more backpackers are visiting Tasmania http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801500.us.archive.org/15/items/92Ttt/%2392%20-%20ttt.mp3

On this weeks episode, I discuss the latest stories coming out of the travel and backpacking world. Hear about: Backpackers who are unable to claim on their travel insurance for injuries in scooter crashes around South East Asia The future of tours to Leo Di Caprio’s ‘The Beach’ A German Backpacker who was eaten alive by … Continue reading #91 – Trending Travelling Topics

I talk about the biggest stories of the week coming out of the travel and backpacking world. Hear about: The end of the 457 visa in Australia. Why the government are tightening up sponsorship and how it will affect future applicants Bangkok banning the sale of “street food”. Is this travelling favourite really going to … Continue reading #90 – Trending Travelling Topics

On this week’s episode, I am joined by Instagram influencer Jorden Tually. Jorden details his adventures in Indonesia, his visits to all but 1 island of Hawaii, his road trips accross America, his times working at a Canadian summer camp and of course, his back garden of Australia. Jorden is known for his creative ways … Continue reading #89 – The 2 and a half year “gap year”

On this week’s episode, hear about the convicted fraudster who was running a backpacking hostel from a house in Christchurch, New Zealand and why you should be careful about where you stay on your travels. Brexit makes a brief return to the podcast with some actual news, sort of. And finally,  hear about a Backpacker … Continue reading #88 – Trending Travelling Topics

This week I talk about an intriguing article about how Backpackers are avoiding Canberra like the plague. Much of this is because of listening to opinions of fellow travelers but should you be listening to opinions or should you be finding out for yourself? Also farm work gets some more airtime on the podcast. Last … Continue reading #87 – Trending Travelling Topics

On this week’s episode, I talk about the latest news in the travel and backpacking world. First up is an unfortunate tale about an English backpacker who was denied her second year working holiday visa for Australia, because her employer did not pay her enough. Hear about how you can avoid being in the same … Continue reading #86 Trending Travelling Topics

In one of the most bizarre stories of the year, hear about how a French woman has become a fugitive of New Zealand for taking a poo in the street. Also, should all these negative news stories of Backpackers put you off travelling to certain places? I discuss this as well as addressing the controversy from last … Continue reading #85 Trending Travelling Topics

After discussing my trip to in to the incredible Iceland, I return to the podcast with fire. Here about the future of European travel for Americans and how it could become more complicated #nice1don. I then move to a rant about disgraceful backpackers who steal from the places they visit and then brag about it on … Continue reading #84 – Trending Travelling Topics

This week, I cover a story about a British Backpacker who was abducted by a Swedish Backpacker who claimed he was half man half alien. Good friends you make travelling are often people you have known for little time so can you trust them? What are the best ways to avoid trouble. Also covered is … Continue reading #83 – Trending Travelling Topics

Author of 10 travel books Bruce Curran joins me to talk about his vast experiences. Bruce has done it all, from a motorcycle trip from England to South Africa through 4 Continents, Sailing 35000 miles across the the Ocean and even striking up an unlikely friendship with the leader of Myanmar. Tune in to hear a … Continue reading #82 -5 Continents Ridden, 35,000 Miles Sailed

I discuss the latest news from the travel and backpacking world. Hear about the couple who have got married many times over in some of the word’s most desirable places, and have paid less than the cost of the average wedding, for all of them. Also, a tragic death in the Northern Territory  brings me to … Continue reading #81 – Trending Travelling Topics

Hayley joins me to talk about our trip to Lisbon this past weekend. We discuss our,unforgettable Hostel experience, the places we visited that you know about and some you may not. Hear about why you will be prolifically offered drugs when visiting Portugal and also, possibly the world’s most unlikely public car park.   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia601501.us.archive.org/5/items/80Lisbon/%2380%20-%20Lisbon.mp3

Famed travel blogger Henrik Jeppesen joins me for this episode. Henrik managed to visit every country on the planet, all before he turned 28. With all that experience to call upon, he discusses his favourite places and dives deep into his obsession with travel. Henrik discusses some of the most dangerous places he has visited including Afghanistan, Iraq and … Continue reading #79 – The 193 Club

I talk about what’s been happening in the travelling and backpacking world this week. I return to a story discussed a few weeks ago about Chris Porter, a British Backpacker who was facing deportation from Australia despite his heroic actions. Hear about how that story has developed. Also covered is another British Backpacker who was … Continue reading #78 – Trending Travelling Topics

I discuss recent events that have been happening in the travel and backpacking universe. Hear about the Christmas day party that left Coogee Beach in an unfortunate state and a freak accident on a Fraser Island trip that left a handful of unlucky travelers without some vital possessions. Also for £3000 and all expenses paid, … Continue reading #77 – Trending Travelling Topics

Derek of Deztreks.com joins me to discuss the life he has created for himself in the Philippines. 13 years ago, Derek made the switch from living in Melbourne to The Philippines where he has immersed himself into the countries culture and has spent that time exploring the great places the country has to offer. ‘Dezza’ covers … Continue reading #76 – From Melbourne to Manila

One of the most challenging things about travelling for an extended period of time or living abroad is spending Christmas away from your family and friends. Ross joins me for a conversation about what it is like to experience this and whether or not it is worth missing Christmas in favour of Backpacking or living … Continue reading #75 – Christmas Away From Home

We discuss a spontaneous trip to Luxembourg. Find out why the small country might have more to offer than people tell you. We cover everything from the Prime Minister who shops with the locals and a truly spectacular castle, to a peculiar sounding beer and doors that open the wrong way. Find out about an … Continue reading #74 -Luxembourg Anybody?

Ross joins me to discuss the 6 months that he lived and worked in Beijing. He delivers an honest account about all the good and bad things he experienced.  From getting a job, to adapting to eastern culture, to avoiding scams, we cover a large amount of topics. Ross drops some incredible Chinese knowledge bombs on us including how … Continue reading #73 – Teaching English in China

Show regulars Phil Taffley and Dan Webster join me to discuss this weeks travel news. We talk about the sale of Bondi Backpackers for a staggering $18m. Also, the case of Chris Porter,  a British backpacker who broke both ankles escaping murderous knifeman’s hostel rampage. He may be deported he can’t finish the work required to extend … Continue reading #72 – Trending Travelling Topics

I visited Oxford for the first time in my life. From the University to the rowing culture, I give my thoughts. I also talk about why many of us should explore more of our own backyards.   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801506.us.archive.org/6/items/71OxfordTouristInYourOwnCountry/%2371%20-%20Oxford%20Tourist%20in%20your%20own%20country.mp3

With Solo travel continually increasing in popularity, I recall my experiences of it. People always think that it is so daunting. I explain why it may be better than travelling with a companion. Just because you are traveling alone, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will be lonely.   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801504.us.archive.org/2/items/70RidinSolo/%2370%20-%20Ridin%20Solo.mp3

Aaron “ADubz” Phelps reflects on his year in Australia. He gives an honest account of the things he enjoyed but also the things he would do very differently if he was to have his year again. He weighs in on the “investing in experiences” topic too. Other things covered are how much money you need to … Continue reading #69 -Australia, lessons learned

We discuss this week’s travel news. Which member of One Direction recently traveled around South East Asia. What are the new changes to the Australia working holiday visa?Will you be entitled to a free interrail pass? Did you know you can study for free in Denmark if you are an EU citizen? http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801506.us.archive.org/15/items/68TrendingTravelTopics/%2368%20-%20trending%20travel%20topics.mp3  

London has provided me with some incredible moments during my lifetime. However, it has also given me some not so good moments too. I rationally reflect on some of these times, discuss why you shouldn’t necessarily judge a place by the experience you have and revel my stance on the place these days.   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia601503.us.archive.org/20/items/67MyItsComplicatedRelationshipWithLondon/%2367%20-%20My%20its%20complicated%20relationship%20with%20london.mp3

Dan returns to the podcast to discuss his trip to Japan. We talk about The Bullet Train,  the bright lights of Tokyo, Hiroshima and even the home of Pokemon. Find out why 2019 or 2020 would be the ideal time to visit or maybe it wouldn’t. Tune in and decide for yourself   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia601503.us.archive.org/20/items/66Japan/%2366%20-%20Japan.mp3

On the day before my birthday, I reflect on an eventful year that had me living in 3 countries and travelling in 10. I think about what went well, what didn’t and what I want to strive for in the coming year   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia801506.us.archive.org/18/items/65AllInAYear/%2365%20-%20%20All%20in%20a%20year.mp3

Dan joins me to relive his days of working on a Disney Cruise Ship. What was meant to be a 4 month stint turned into an 18 month adventure. From the Bahamas to Alaska, Dan talks about the places he saw, why he extended his stay and how Disney’s high standards gave him some invaluable experiences.   http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/https://ia601506.us.archive.org/30/items/64WorkingOnACruiseShip/%2364-%20Working%20on%20a%20Cruise%20Ship.mp3

James Howland, Author of The Palace Addiction (available on Amazon) and star of Fan TV joins the podcast to share his experience of the 2014 World Cup. James shares his experience which includes a token disappointing England performance. He also shares a terrifying story from the 2016 European Championships where he was right in thick … Continue reading #63 -2014 World Cup in Brazil

After a listener gave me tickets to the NFL game between Jacksonville Jaguars Indianapolis Colts at Wembley, I reflect on the game. Usually, to experience new cultures, you have to go to a new place to see them. In this case, the culture came to me. I discuss this point as well as the game, the entertainment … Continue reading #62 – NFL UK, when America comes to London