The Pod Well Travelled

Vast, remote and brimming with cultural richness, the Australian Outback is the topic on this week’s episode of The Pod Well Travelled. Host Megan French is joined by seasoned explorer Stephen Scourfield to discuss what makes Australia’s rural landscape one of the world’s most unique travel destinations. From the iconic red heart of Uluru and the dramatic domes of Kata Tjuta, to the ancient gorges of Karijini and the rugged beauty of the Kimberley, this episode takes listeners on an epic journey with firsthand accounts, must-visit destinations and vital preparation tips revealed. + We’d love to hear from you — send your questions, comments or feedback for the podcast to The Pod Well Travelled team via travel@wanews.com.au. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Pod Well Travelled, Travel Editor Stephen Scourfield discusses travelling the southern Indian state of Kerala, specifically its capital Thiruvananthapuram, with host Megan French. From visiting one of the richest and most mysterious temples in the world, to witnessing the work of legendary Indian artist colloquially dubbed the “father of modern Indian Art” – the pair offer an insightful glimpse into travelling “alternative” India, away from the tourist trail. Having travelled through the subcontinent more than a dozen times, Stephen shares his expert top tips on exploring the destination home to more than 1.4 billion people. At the end of the show Stephen mentions a travel story he wrote about riding India’s Route 66 on his Royal Enfield. To read his “favourite story ever", click on the link below or visit thewest.com.au. https://thewest.com.au/news/oceania/get-your-kicks-on-indias-route-66-ng-ya-136047 + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. + We’d love to hear from you — send your questions, comments or feedback for the podcast to The Pod Well Travelled team via travel@wanews.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Special guest Leyanne Baillie joins Penny Thomas and Stephen Scourfield to discuss the many treasures of her historic homeland — Scotland. During the episode, they dive into everything from haggis and highlands to the warm, welcoming spirit of its people. Leyanne shares invaluable travel tips for first-time visitors eager to discover all there is to love about this far-flung corner of Britain, while Stephen reveals his favourite spots for kayaking among Scotland’s breathtaking isles. At the end of the show, Penny puts Stephen and Leyanne to the test with a lively round of ‘This or That’, where they reveal their Scottish travel preferences . . . Edinburgh or Glasgow? A round of golf at St Andrews or a dip in a Scottish loch? And the toughest question of all — which is cuter, a Highland cow or a Shetland pony? + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. + We’d love to hear from you — send your questions, comments or feedback for the podcast to The Pod Well Travelled team via travel@wanews.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this fortnight’s episode of The Pod Well Travelled, Megan French and Penny Thomas share some uplifting travel news, top tips for catching cherry blossoms this season, and conclude with their signature “This or That” quiz. From Emirates’ groundbreaking announcement to become the world’s first Autism-certified airline, to a peculiar so-called “travel hack” going viral on TikTok right now, you won’t want to miss this entertaining chat. + Follow us on TikTok and Instagram @WestTravelTeam. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + We’d love to hear from you — send your questions, comments or feedback for the podcast to The Pod Well Travelled team via travel@wanews.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Penny Thomas and Megan French as they round up February’s biggest travel headlines. In this episode, they unpack London Heathrow’s controversial expansion plans, Changi Airport’s near-full recovery and troubling reports of scams at Bali’s international airport. They also explore new airline routes — like Cathay Pacific’s flights to Rome — and the highly anticipated opening of Raffles Sentosa Singapore. And if months at sea sound like a dream (or a nightmare), Viking’s newly announced 2026-27 World Cruise itineraries might just sway you. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. + We’d love to hear from you — send your questions, comments or feedback for the podcast to The Pod Well Travelled team via travel@wanews.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From savvy suitcase strategies to street smarts, Penny Thomas and Megan French unpack everything from the dos and don’ts of tipping (spoiler: it’s not always expected) to digital packing hacks — and why packing cubes might just change your life. They also explore the underrated art of keeping a travel journal and how brushing up on your destination’s basics before you go can make all the difference. Packed with practical tips, today’s episode is your ultimate pre-trip checklist — plus it’s a sneak peek to our comprehensive Travel Essentials Guide that will be published in The West’s Travel section next month. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. + We’d love to hear from you — send your questions, comments or feedback for the podcast to The Pod Well Travelled team via travel@wanews.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Managing money while travelling can feel like a maze of fees, exchange rates and security risks — but it doesn’t have to be. In this week’s episode hosts Megan French and Penny Thomas are joined by Stephen Scourfield and Mogens Johansen, who break down the smartest ways to pay, budget and protect your cash when you’re on the road. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. + We’d love to hear from you — send your questions, comments or feedback for the podcast to The Pod Well Travelled team via travel@wanews.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Pod Well Travelled, Penny Thomas and Megan French explore the irresistible pull of food when it comes to travel. From the best meals they’ve eaten abroad to the ultimate foodie destinations in Australia and beyond, they discuss where to eat, what to try, and why it’s worth planning your next trip around a plate. During the episode, Megan shares some Filipino food highlights, proving that the Philippines is a seriously underrated foodie destination. As promised, here are the names of those dishes mentioned: Ube Bibingka — A soft and chewy coconut rice cake flavoured with ube (purple yam jam), served warm or at room temperature. Buko Pandan — A cold dessert made with jelly cubes, young coconut, and sweetened cream—perfect for a hot day. Ensaymada — A sweet, spiral-shaped pastry with Spanish origins that has become a beloved Filipino treat, often eaten for breakfast or as a snack. Halo-Halo — A vibrant shaved ice dessert with evaporated or coconut milk, known for being refreshing and delicious. Turon — A crispy, caramelised banana spring roll that’s the perfect mix of sweet and crunchy. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. + We’d love to hear from you — send your questions, comments or feedback for the podcast to The Pod Well Travelled team via travel@wanews.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join hosts Penny Thomas and Megan French as they dive into the latest travel stories and trends for January. Megan kicks off today’s episode by unpacking the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirements for Aussie travellers, while Penny shares a great Qatar Airways deal and breaks down recent changes to Qantas’ Frequent Flyer program. Megan then tells us about the Bruce Munro exhibition Field of Light at Uluru, which has been extended until at least April 2027 following a major refurbishment of the installation. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. + We’d love to hear from you — send your questions, comments or feedback for the podcast to The Pod Well Travelled team via travel@wanews.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode, host Will Yeoman talks to self-described “Abrolhogist” Howard Gray B.Sc. Dip.Ed Ph.D about his latest book, Abrolhos: Keep Your Eyes Open, a lavishly illustrated and compellingly written introduction to the natural and human history of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands of Western Australia. + This special episode of Podstreet and The Pod Well Travelled is brought to you by Writing WA and The West’s travel team. + Discover more from Writing WA at writingwa.org, and don’t miss their latest insights by subscribing to their Substack here. + Catch every episode of The Pod Well Travelled and Podstreet on your favourite podcast platform — and share the journey with friends and family! + For more travel inspiration, sign up for our free weekly digital edition, eTravel, at thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. Each issue is packed with fresh stories, podcast updates, event listings and more, delivered straight to your inbox.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode, hosts Penny Thomas and Megan French sit down with travel writer and photographer Mogens Johansen to chat about one of Australia’s most beloved travel destinations — Tasmania, an island gem located just off the bottom right corner of Australia’s mainland. Fresh from a trip to Tassie, as it’s affectionately known, Mogens shares highlights from his recent adventure, including a two-night stay at a wilderness retreat on Cradle Mountain in Tasmania’s central highlands. Penny and Megan also share some of their favourite spots in Tasmania, from the historic charm of Richmond and the natural beauty of Bruny Island to cultural highlights like MONA in Hobart. The episode concludes with another round of “this or that”, where Mogens and Penny face off, sharing their personal travel preferences relating to Tasmania. Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled wherever you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences and click on West Travel Club. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode, the team consider the powerful connection between music and travel, exploring how song lyrics inspire us to pack our bags and see the world. Unsurprisingly, Taylor Swift takes centre stage in much of the discussion, but we also cover other destinations immortalised in tracks by various artists. From creating imaginary bonds with places through music to making travel decisions influenced by lyrics, join the team as they unpack the role of songs in shaping our travels. To round out the episode, Stephen and Megan face off in another fun round of “this or that”, where they reveal their ultimate travel destinations and experiences inspired by none other than Taylor Swift herself. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled wherever you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences and click on West Travel Club. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode, Penny Thomas and Megan French dive into their travel predictions for 2025 while reflecting on the trends that shaped 2024. From the “Taylor Swift effect” driving $1 billion in hotel revenue to the resurgence of Egypt and affordable flights to Europe, they unpack 2024’s biggest shifts in travel. Looking ahead, they spotlight Japan, Southeast Asia and Austria as must-visit destinations, while exploring trends like digital packing, immersive cooking classes and the decline of wellness travel. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled wherever you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences and click on West Travel Club. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Pod Well Travelled, Penny Thomas and Megan French sit down with Stephen Scourfield to delve into his latest adventure — an unforgettable expedition to Antarctica with Lindblad Expeditions, where he guided a group of enthusiastic West Travel Club guests to one of the planet’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations. Stephen shares the excitement of travelling aboard the Lindblad National Geographic Resolution, a ship that strikes the perfect balance between exploration and learning thanks to the expertise of onboard naturalists, photographers, and scientists who enriched every moment. Stephen also tells us about how he prepared his group for the unpredictable nature of the journey, from practical tips for braving the infamous Drake Passage seas, to the type of camera gear to take and why it’s important to pack lots of layers. We then discuss the daily rhythm of life on the expedition, from zodiac landings and wildlife encounters to unique activities like the popular polar plunge. Finally, Stephen leaves us with a poignant reflection on why he thinks this icy frontier continues to captivate adventurers and conservationists alike, before Megan wraps up the episode with another fun round of This or That. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled wherever you get your podcasts — and share it with your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences and click on West Travel Club. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we’re kicking off our new Hotels of the World series, where we uncover the stories and secrets beyond the check-in counter at popular hotels. For our first episode of the new series, Megan French and Penny Thomas chat with Mercure Perth general manager Brian McHenry about what goes on behind the scenes at his hotel in Perth’s CBD. Having spent 35 years in the hospitality industry, Brian shares insights into his role, what he loves most about the business, and anecdotes from memorable guest experiences. He also explains the importance of crafting unique, localised stays that leave a lasting impression. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled wherever you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences and click on West Travel Club. It’s our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this festive episode of The Pod Well Travelled, hosts Penny Thomas and Megan French explore the most delightful and quirky Christmas traditions from around the world. From Germany's enchanting Christmas markets — where mulled wine, bratwurst and handcrafted ornaments bring festive cheer — to Japan's unexpected KFC Christmas feast, a tradition born from a clever 1970s marketing campaign, this episode is packed with holiday magic. The fun wraps up with a festive round of ‘This or That,' where Megan puts Penny to the test with some lighthearted questions to spark your own Christmas inspiration! Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Penny Thomas, Megan French and Stephen Scourfield as they unpack a series of interesting travel stories and trends for the month of November. Penny kicks things off by telling us about the rise of medical tourism, sharing surprising new data that reveals over half of Australians are willing to travel abroad for medical procedures. Next, Stephen introduces Four Points Flex by Sheraton, a budget-friendly accommodation option perfect for travellers heading to Japan. The discussion then looks at the recent methanol poisoning incident in Laos. Plus, Stephen considers whether or not it's safe to travel to Egypt amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza and tensions around Israeli military presence near the border. Megan then lightens the mood by sharing some upbeat travel news, including Scoot's new flight routes, Outback Spirit's impressive “fly-free” deal, and the much-anticipated expansion of Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan. At the end of the show, Stephen leads a lively round of ‘This or That,' where Penny and Megan face off in a fun, fast-paced showdown. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Stephen Scourfield chats with Penny Thomas about the Kumano Kodo trail in Japan, which is one of only two UNESCO-recognised pilgrimage routes in the world. Nestled in the heart of Japan's Kii Peninsula, the series of trails weave through lush forests, towering mountains and sacred shrines and temples that have lured emperors, monks and pilgrims to the region for over 1,000 years. Whether you're captivated by its spiritual significance, stunning natural landscapes, or the allure of Japan's countryside, Penny delves into what makes the Kumano Kodo so remarkable — and she reveals some exciting personal news too. During the show, Penny and Stephen highlight several companies offering guided tours along the Kumano Kodo, which we've listed below: Intrepid Travel World Expeditions Auswalk Raw Travel Tanabe City Kumano Tourism Bureau Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Pod Well Travelled, host Penny Thomas sits down with seasoned travel writers Stephen Scourfield and Mogens Johansen to discuss the world of river cruising. From Europe's iconic waterways to the hidden treasures of Asia, Stephen and Mogens share insider tips on top destinations and itineraries, including unique experiences that only river cruises can offer. With practical advice for first-time cruisers, they discuss what to consider when choosing a cruise: how boat size impacts the onboard experience, which amenities matter most, and how river cruising differs from ocean cruising in terms of excursions, dining and entertainment. Megan French returns towards the end of the show for a lively round of “This or That”, where Stephen and Mogens reveal their preferences between European and Asian rivers, large and small ships, plus more. Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Writing WA CEO Will Yeoman for a special crossover episode of Podstreet and The Pod Well Travelled. During the show, Will chats with Mark Pybus, the passionate hiker and founder behind The Life of Py. From his first trek across Costa Rica to the diverse landscapes of the Warren River Loop and Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail, Mark shares his journey into hiking and his passion for Western Australia's natural beauty. Tune in as they discuss his popular guidebooks, the rise in hiking interest during lockdowns, and the importance of preserving these trails for future adventurers. Will Yeoman has also written an exclusive piece on Mark Pybus and his adventures for this Saturday's Travel section in The West Australian. Subscribers to the podcast can get early access to the story here. + This special episode of Podstreet and The Pod Well Travelled is brought to you by Writing WA and The West's travel team. + Discover more from Writing WA at writingwa.org, and don't miss their latest insights by subscribing to their Substack here. + Follow Mark Pybus's adventures and hiking insights at thelifeofpy.com or on Instagram @thelife0fpy. + Catch every episode of The Pod Well Travelled and Podstreet on your favourite podcast platform — and don't forget to share the journey with friends and family! + For more travel inspiration, sign up for our free weekly digital edition of eTravel at thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. Each issue is packed with fresh stories, podcast updates, event listings and more — delivered straight to your inbox.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Penny Thomas, Megan French and Stephen Scourfield as they explore October's biggest travel trends. Stephen kicks off the show with highlights from the National Travel Industry Awards in Sydney, where he shares stories from the night and celebrates some of the well-deserved winners. From there, the team dives into the latest industry happenings — from ALDI's surprise launch of holiday packages and Uber's new safari experiences, to insights on the cultural challenges plaguing Boeing. They also unpack what makes Singapore Airlines an industry leader and share details on a new mountain biking trail in New Zealand. At the end of the show, Megan and Stephen go head-to-head in another lively round of ‘This or That.' + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode, the travel team discuss different ways to dive deeper into local cultures and create more meaningful travel moments. Stephen Scourfield shares his fascinating experience with the women divers of Jeju Island from his recent visit to South Korea. While Penny Thomas tells us about a spontaneous encounter at an izakaya in Tokyo. We also hear about a hands-on workshop Penny did in the scenic mountain village of Yoshino in Japan's Nara Prefecture. Plus, Megan French considers why travellers are increasingly drawn to seeking out authentic experiences and whether social media helps or hinders these moments. The episode wraps up with yet another round of “this or that,” which raises some eyebrows but guarantees a good laugh. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. + The story links from our Authentic Travel Guide in The West Australian will be added to the show notes on Monday Oct 28.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For some travellers, planning a trip to Europe can be stressful, confusing and overwhelming. So, for today's episode of The Pod Well Travelled, we're breaking it all down for you.  From how to score the best travel deals, to popular destinations and even which countries offer the most bang for your buck, we've got all the tips to make your upcoming European adventure a stress-free experience.  During the show, we mention Stephen Scourfield's recent European Guide that was published in The West Australian's travel section on Saturday October 12, which you can read here. And don't miss our fun quick-fire round at the end of the show, where we pit iconic European spots against each other.  + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From building schools in remote villages to conserving wildlife habitats, volunteer tourism promises to be an enriching way to travel. But how can you be sure the work you're doing is really helping? During today's show, we cover the key things you need to know when it comes to travelling with a purpose, like how to choose responsible programs, the impact of the work you're doing, plus the personal rewards and challenges of this growing trend. We also hear from Valentina Raffel, who shares her insights on responsible volunteering and the establishment of her organisation, Statera Collective. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode, Penny Thomas, Megan French and Stephen Scourfield recap the recent Jackets Of The World exhibition, which took place in Fremantle last month and featured over 50 hand-sewn jackets from Stephen's travels. During the show, we also hear a special live recording from the event, where Stephen performed a moving piece about Africa accompanied by the captivating rhythms of musician and composer Steve Richter. Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this month, Old Customs House in Fremantle was transformed into a vibrant gallery for Stephen Scourfield's Jackets Of The World exhibition, which featured an impressive collection of hand-sewn denim jackets that Stephen stitched together with fabrics, tapestries and other bits and bobs he's collected from his travels. As part of the two-day event, The Pod Well Travelled hosts Penny Thomas and Megan French recorded a live Q&A session with Stephen, where they answered questions from the audience on a wide range of travel-related topics, including insurance options for over-80s, the challenges and benefits of travelling solo, plus age limits for car rentals and why you should consider booking direct with certain travel companies to avoid hidden costs. They also discuss the Jackets Of The World exhibition, with Stephen sharing details on how he sourced many of the unique materials on display and the emotional significance behind each piece. Thank you to everyone who attended the live podcast recording during the Jackets Of The World exhibition. It was a pleasure to see you, and we thank you for coming. As promised, below are the links we reference throughout this week's show. Insurance options for over-80s + Consider companies like NIB, COTA or Chubb. + Comparetravelinsurance.com.au is Australia's leading comparison site solely focused on travel insurance. + Probus Clubs are clubs for retired or semi-retired people that often provide good insurance for their members. It's also worth noting that you can get insurance through Probus, even if you're not a full member.   Quality tour operators we recommend using, especially for solo travellers + Of course, our own West Travel Club tours are great for solo travellers. + Another nice little company based here in Western Australia is called Travel with Me (TWME). They cater to individuals, couples, friends and groups. + If you're after a European tour specialist, Albatross Tours are brilliant at what they do. + Intrepid Travel is another reputable company from Australia that provide small group tours in over 100 countries that we can happily recommend. + Collette offer an incredible range of small group tours. They are a third generation family-owned business and the longest-running tour operator in North America, with a history dating back to 1918. + To get the latest travel deals and offers, the best thing you can do is sign up to the newsletters of preferred travel companies.   Travel Tips for ageing travellers + Listen to our previous podcast episode on how to survive a long-haul flight here. + Consider train travel. Europe, the US, India and Australia all have great train journeys. Broadly speaking, there are two main types of train journeys — the sort where you buy a pass or ticket to get from A to B and touring trains. + River cruising in Europe is a really good way to see a lot, really easily. + Travelling to Vietnam has never been easier or more affordable with both VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines flying direct between Perth and Ho Chi Minh City. If you do, consider visiting Hoi An and Hanoi, they offer more charm than Ho Chi Minh. Car Hire and International Driving Permits Read Stephen Scourfield's story on navigating car hire & its many pitfalls here.   THE POD WELL TRAVELLED Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a new episode of The Pod Well Travelled, hosts Penny Thomas and Megan French chime into the airport hotel conversation. Penny shares her experience staying at the Novotel & ibis Styles Melbourne Airport hotel — Victoria's most significant hotel development being the first new-build internationally branded hotel to open at Melbourne Airport in two decades. The duo also discuss what factors make an airport hotel not just good but great, and debate if a bathtub truly is a hotel travel necessity. + Subscribe and listen to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Packing too much. Packing too little. Forgetting to label your case. Toiletries exploding. Leaving it to the last minute. Using the wrong bag. These are packing mistakes we're all guilty of at some point, no matter how experienced a traveller we are. But sometimes you just have to learn the hard way. Tune into the latest episode of The Pod Well Travelled's Packing Series with co-hosts Penny Thomas and Megan French as they explore the contentious topic of packing mistakes, confessing their worst packing blunders and offering tips on how to avoid common mistakes we can all succumb to along the way. The duo cover everything from cultural and weather considerations to travel hacks from the travel veteran himself, Stephen Scourfield, that have unsurprisingly proven successful. + Subscribe and listen to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pod Well Travelled team Penny Thomas, Stephen Scourfield and Megan French tackle the great outdoors in a new episode of their Packing Series. Penny seeks packing tips ahead of her trip to Japan to hike one of the world's premier spiritual roads — the Kumano Kodō, ancient pilgrimage routes which crisscross the Kii Peninsula. Outdoors-man travel editor Stephen and fashion writer Megan present a brief overview on the history of outdoor gear and how fabrications evolved as popularity for hiking and outdoor exploring gained momentum throughout time. From the importance of layering to what a hiking day pack should contain, the trio cover extensive ground on the topic. + Subscribe and listen to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Pod Well Travelled, the team reveal their must-have devices for staying connected, entertained and organised when travelling. Join Penny Thomas, Stephen Scourfield and Megan French as they discuss everything from compact power banks and travel adaptors to smart luggage, e-readers and more. Whether you're gearing up for a weekend getaway or a long-haul adventure, this episode will help you pack like a pro. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on our dedicated travel podcast, hosts Penny Thomas and Megan French are joined by The West's TV editor and columnist Clare Rigden, who recently returned from a big European adventure. As a self-confessed bargain hunter, Clare tells us about the cheap travel accessories she bought from a popular online store that is renowned for selling almost every product imaginable for dramatically low prices. During the show, we get Clare's honest opinion on the budget-friendly items she took with her, and we find out whether or not they enhanced her trip. Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fresh from exploring Australia's Coral Coast on a four-day road trip, travel writer Penny Thomas chats with fashion writer and stylist Megan French about her trip and the basic travel essentials she took with her. They also discuss their favourite things to listen to during a long drive, why you should always double-check you have everything before you head off on an adventure, the importance of having roadside assistance, and why you should always know how to change a tyre. Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week The Pod Well Travelled sets off on a journey to explore two trends taking flight in the travel industry. Expert photographer Mogens Johansen and travel editor Stephen Scourfield chat to host Megan French about the concepts of “second city” travel and destination dupes — from prioritising a “more authentic” experience to stretching your wallet even further abroad and building genuine connections. Plus, Stephen is challenged to a “quick-fire question” round disclosing his top suggestions of alternatives for some of the world's most popular tourism destinations. Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The West's travel editor Stephen Scourfield and our expert photographer Mogens Johansen return to the studio for the latest episode in our new Packing Series about photography gear. Joined by hosts Penny Thomas and Megan French, the team share their favourite camera brands and models, the type of equipment they use when on assignment, and they reveal the tips and tricks they've picked up over the years. Mogens also references a couple of photography-related stories he's written for our print and online travel sections, which are linked below. 10 tips for better phone photography The world's best hobby Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on our dedicated travel podcast, the travel team launch an exciting new Packing Series to help you pack smarter, travel lighter and say goodbye to any luggage-related woes you might come up against when packing. For the first episode of the new series, Stephen Scourfield, Penny Thomas and Megan French discuss their packing essentials for long-haul flights, and the practical tips they've learned during their travels. Throughout the show, Stephen explains why ultra long-haul flights — like Qantas' new direct Perth to Paris route and Singapore Airlines' nonstop flight between Singapore to New York — are on the rise.  We also hear about the one item Stephen thinks is a game changer for people prone to back pain, and we get his thoughts on jet-lag.  Megan shares a comprehensive list of all the items she takes in her carry-on bag for longer journeys. While Penny tells us about the travel mishaps she's endured during a long-haul flight. Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode, host Stephen Scourfield chats to Penny Thomas and Mogens Johansen about one of their favourite places in South-East Asia: Cambodia. Join the team as they share personal stories from their travels around Cambodia, highlighting the country's rich culture, history and cuisine. Penny tells us about a seven-day food tour she recently did with Intrepid Travel that involved sampling plenty of local delicacies -- including rat! We also hear from Mogens who describes what it was like to stay in the heart of the Cardamon Forest at a luxury glamping resort. And, at the end of the show, we've included an interview Penny recorded in Battambang with a local guide named Sambat who grew up in Cambodia during the 1970s. Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode, Megan French and Penny Thomas discuss the top art galleries and museums they've visited, and the ones they plan to visit in the future. They also reflect on how art galleries and museums can enrich travel experiences, especially if you are someone who likes to seek out a deeper connection with the destination you're visiting. Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. Sign up for eTravel via thewest.com.au/manage-email-preferences. It's our free digital edition of travel that gets delivered to your inbox once a week and is full of new stories, fresh podcast episodes, upcoming events and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode, The West's travel editor Stephen Scourfield reports from France's Juno Beach in Normandy for the 80th anniversary of D-Day.  During the show, Stephen reflects on the complex and brazen operation that unfolded on D-Day, the bravery of the soldiers involved in the mission and how it was a turning point in WWII. We also hear about Normandy's Viking history and William the Conqueror's legacy. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Follow us on our TikTok @thepodwelltravelled and Instagram @thepod_welltravelled accounts for more content from the Travel team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week's episode, special guest Will Yeoman from Writing WA returns to The Pod Well Travelled to chat about literary-inspired travel destinations with fashion writer and stylist Megan French and travel editor Stephen Scourfield.  From the Bronte Parsonage Museum in Haworth to Dylan Thomas' writing shed in Wales, join the trio of bookworms as they dive into their favourite literary hotspots.  During the show, they discuss top writing festivals around the world including the iconic Hay Festival in Wales and India's Jaipur Literature Festival, as well as Singapore's annual multi-lingual event. Stephen shares an author's perspective and reveals the West Australian landscapes that inspired his novels Other Country and As The River Runs. And, we hear about what's important to consider when planning and attending a literary festival from Will, a past director of the York Writers Festival, New Norcia Writers Festival and Perth Festival Writers Week.  + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Follow us on our TikTok @thepodwelltravelled and Instagram @thepod_welltravelled accounts for more content from the Travel team. + For more on literary and writing, check out Writing WA's podcast, Podstreet, featuring West Australian authors, poets, essayists, booksellers, publishers and other industry professionals. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode, Penny Thomas and Megan French chat with Perth businessman Jeff Robson about his new book, The Traveling Trainer. Throughout the show, we hear about Jeff's passion for rock climbing, how he turned his love for travelling into a career and why he decided to publish a book about it. Jeff also tells us about the far-flung destinations he's visited because of his career, including places like Islamabad in Pakistan, Tehran in Iran and Angola in Africa — just to name a few. Discussing the new book, Jeff says it is packed full of practical tips and a must read for anyone who has ever thought about working as a professional trainer. “This book aims to inspire professionals to think about how you can teach your skills overseas,” he says. “Then — once you begin leveraging your professional qualifications to train others who maybe based near exotic locations — it is an opportunity to travel more broadly. “I want to encourage people to step away from the glossy marketing of the global travel industry train, with its luxury hotels, pools and bright cocktails. Some of the most memorable and enjoyable times I've had have been in remote locations, far from the well-known hotels and package tours.” + To purchase a copy of The Traveling Trainer, visit travelingtrainerlife.com. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Follow us on our TikTok @thepodwelltravelled and Instagram @thepod_welltravelled accounts for more content from the Travel team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Pod Well Travelled, our travel team delves into the best destinations to visit in the latter half of 2024. We kick off the episode by reflecting on the year so far, discussing the most popular hotspots that have been buzzing with travellers. Later on in the program, we share a list of places where prospective travellers can still book trips this year without encountering overwhelming crowds. We also explore the places where you can maximise your budget thanks to favourable exchange rates — and highlight the destinations to avoid. And, Stephen shares insider tips on finding last-minute deals for popular tours and cruises that are typically booked out. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Follow us on our TikTok @thepodwelltravelled and Instagram @thepod_welltravelled accounts for more content from the Travel team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Pod Well Travelled, Penny Thomas and Megan French chat to TV Editor Clare Rigden about the concept of set jetting, which is when travellers visit a particular destination because it was featured in a television show or movie. + Subscribe to The Pod Well Travelled where you get your podcasts — and share it to your family and friends. + Follow us on our TikTok @thepodwelltravelled and Instagram @thepod_welltravelled accounts for more content from the Travel team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.