In this inspiring episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley sits down with Jo, one of our experienced Travel Consultants, to uncover two of the world’s most surprising hidden gems: Belize and Guatemala.

From rainforest lodges alive with toucans and howler monkeys to ancient Mayan cities and diving with dolphins, Jo shares how this family adventure became truly life-changing, and why she believes more travellers should experience it for themselves.

Whether you’re craving authentic culture, astonishing wildlife, or simply a place that feels undiscovered, this conversation will open your eyes to a side of Central America you won’t find in the brochures.

Episode Highlights

[01:30] Why Belize and Guatemala captivated Jo’s family and how the trip transformed them

[04:20] Crossing borders on foot and stepping into a completely different world

[07:10] The rainforest mornings, Mayan temples and unexpected moments that made the journey unforgettable

[10:15] What surprised them about the food, the culture and the warmth of the people

[13:00] Why these countries are perfect for wildlife lovers and adventurous families

[16:30] When to go and why timing can make all the difference

[20:00] How travelling with a local guide unlocked hidden experiences

Ready to plan your own Central American adventure?

Your Not Just Travel Consultant can help you create a tailor-made itinerary through Belize, Guatemala or anywhere else that inspires you.

Contact your Travel Consultant today to get started.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Have a question?

Have a question, an idea for a future episode, or a guest you’d love to hear from? Just follow this link in to share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you.

Think river cruising is just a slow meander for retirees? Think again.

In this episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley sits down with Kerry from Emerald Cruises to uncover a side of river cruising most travellers never imagine—where cutting-edge design meets relaxed luxury and every day brings a fresh discovery.

From surprising onboard spaces you won’t believe to a sense of freedom you won’t find on bigger ships, this conversation reveals why more people are swapping ocean liners for something altogether more rewarding. Whether you’re curious about your first river cruise or ready to see Europe from a new perspective, you’ll find plenty here to inspire your next adventure.

Episode Highlights

[01:15] What sets Emerald apart from every other river cruise line

[03:30] Why the atmosphere onboard feels so different

[06:00] Unexpected experiences that surprise even seasoned travellers

[09:15] A closer look at Emerald’s lesser-known itineraries

[12:45] Tips to make the most of your time on and off the ship

[16:30] How river cruising can quickly become an irresistible habit

Ready to discover river cruising reimagined?

Your Not Just Travel Consultant can help you plan a tailor-made river cruise journey - whether you’re dreaming of effortless luxury, active exploration, or simply a fresh way to see Europe.

Contact your Travel Consultant today to get started.

Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Have a question?

Have a question, an idea for a future episode, or a guest you’d love to hear from? Just follow this link in to share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you.

Ready to uncover Africa’s friendliest secret? Welcome to The Gambia.

In this heart-warming episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley sits down with Personal Travel Consultant Esther to uncover the real Gambia - The Smiling Coast of Africa.

With over 25 years of first-hand experience, Esther shares the surprising truth about this extraordinary destination: a place of white-sand beaches, rich culture, and some of the kindest people you’ll ever meet. From crocodile encounters to river cruises, and friendships that last a lifetime, The Gambia might just be your next unforgettable holiday.

Episode Highlights

[00:30] Why Esther fell in love with The Gambia

[03:00] The Smiling Coast: What makes the people so special

[06:30] Unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere

[09:00] Who The Gambia is perfect for

[12:00] Esther’s top recommendations

[15:30] Cultural tips

[17:30] The unforgettable food scene

[20:00] Why The Gambia is such great value for money

[22:00] What stays with you long after you leave

Why You’ll Love This Episode

Whether you’ve never heard of The Gambia or you’ve always been curious, this conversation will open your eyes to a destination that’s so much more than a winter sun escape. With Esther’s insider knowledge, you’ll discover how a trip here can change not just your holiday plans - but your life.

Ready to start planning your own adventure to The Smiling Coast of Africa?

Your Not Just Travel Consultant is here to help you craft the perfect trip - whether you’re dreaming of relaxing beaches, cultural immersion, or unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Contact your Travel Consultant today to get started. Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Have a question?

Have a question, an idea for a future episode, or a guest you’d love to hear from? Just follow this link in to share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you.

Ever imagined a cruise that feels more like a boutique hotel than a ship?

This week on The Travel Podcast, we're diving deep into the revolutionary world of Explora Journeys – a new luxury ocean travel brand that’s tearing up the cruise rulebook and attracting travellers who swore they’d never set foot on a ship.

Our guest Andrew, Business Relationship Lead for the UK & Ireland for Explora, shares how Explora Journeys is delivering an ocean travel experience unlike anything else on the market.

If you think cruising is about packed buffets, cheesy shows and inside cabins, then think again.

Explora Journeys offers something else entirely: space, serenity, and the boutique hotel experience… at sea.

Episode Guide & Highlights

00:02:12 – Why they don’t call themselves a cruise line

00:06:28 – The unexpected design choices creating true luxury at sea

00:11:00 – Who is it for?

00:13:20 – A behind-the-scenes look at the service philosophy setting new standards

00:16:01 – Hidden destinations & itineraries

00:20:28 – The bold expansion plan and cutting-edge sustainability powering the future of ocean travel

00:23:41 – What is “Ocean State of Mind”?

00:26:24 – Winning over the “never cruisers”

If you’ve written off cruising because of outdated perceptions, Explora Journeys could completely change your mind.

This isn’t a floating theme park – it’s a refined, relaxing, luxury journey that just happens to sail.

And it’s not just about where you go – it’s how you feel while you’re going there. If this episode has sparked your curiosity, why not take the next step?

Contact your Travel Consultant today to get started. Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Have a question?

Have a question, an idea for a future episode, or a guest you’d love to hear from? Just follow this link in to share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you.

Think Jamaica’s just beaches and Bob Marley? Think again.

In this vibrant episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley is joined by Donovan from the Jamaica Tourist Board to uncover the real Jamaica – a rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, natural wonders, and unforgettable experiences.

From climbing waterfalls and sipping rum in floating bars to getting married at sunset or rafting through jungle-lined rivers, Jamaica is so much more than a beach break. Whether it’s your first visit or a long-overdue return, this episode shows how Jamaica can surprise, inspire, and completely win you over.

You'll discover:

• What makes Jamaica truly unique among Caribbean islands
• Why it's ideal for couples, families, foodies, and adventure seekers alike
• Expert tips for avoiding the crowds and finding authentic local gems
• Why so many travellers fall in love with Jamaica - and return again and again

What You’ll Discover

[01:30] What makes Jamaica special for first-time visitors

[04:00] The must-see sights - plus local tips to beat the crowds

[06:45] Hidden gems: rum distilleries, floating bars, and secret beaches

[08:30] Jamaica’s legendary food and drink scene

[10:15] Which part of the island is right for your holiday style

[13:30] Why Jamaica is one of the world’s most popular wedding destinations

[17:45] What makes it perfect for families

[22:00] How Jamaica stands out from other Caribbean islands

Ready to plan your own Jamaican adventure?

Your Not Just Travel Consultant can work with you to help tailor the perfect Jamaica itinerary - whether you’re planning your honeymoon or wedding, or if you're look for some relaxation or an island adventure...

Contact your Travel Consultant today to get started. Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find one near you.

Have a question?

Have a question, an idea for a future episode, or a guest you’d love to hear from? Just follow this link in to share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you.

Think expedition cruising means roughing it in basic conditions? Think again.

In this eye-opening episode of The Travel Podcast, host Hayley Sparkes is joined by Kerry Eades from Scenic to reveal the surprising truth about ultra-luxury expedition travel - where helicopters, submarines, and six-star service meet the world’s most remote destinations.

Ever imagined exploring Antarctica in a submarine or spotting Arctic wildlife from a helicopter—all while sipping champagne in your private suite? This episode unveils the hidden world of premium expedition cruising, where cutting-edge technology meets uncompromising comfort.

You'll discover:

• How smaller ships lead to bigger adventures
• Why luxury doesn't mean missing out on authentic exploration
• How innovation is revolutionising adventure travel for curious, comfort-loving explorers

Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or a curious first-timer, this one will change the way you think about adventure at sea.

What You'll Discover

[03:00] Expedition vs. traditional cruising

[05:20] Why ship size matters?

[07:00] What sets Scenic Eclipse apart?

[08:30] Where can you go?

[10:00] A day in the life onboard

[14:00] Who travels with Scenic?

[15:40] What’s in the future for expedition travel?

Key Highlights

• Six-star luxury meets adventure: think butlers, spas, and Zodiac landings in Antarctica.
• Expert-led discovery: on-board geologists, photographers, and wildlife experts enrich every excursion.
• Off-the-beaten-path itineraries: explore remote Arctic ice or the colourful reefs of Southeast Asia.

Ready to experience the ultimate expedition cruise?

Your Travel Consultant works directly with Scenic to tailor the perfect trip—whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Antarctica or a glamorous cruise through the Med. Contact them today for more info. Don’t have a Personal Travel Consultant? Visit notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find a consultant near you.

Have a question?

Have a question, an idea for a future episode, or a guest you’d love to hear from? Just follow this link in to share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you.

India's all over the news and on the TV, but think you know it? Think again.

TV presenter and friend of The Travel Podcast, Sally Jacks, returns to share stories from her latest trip to India — and it’s not what you’d expect. Yes, there’s the Taj Mahal. Yes, there’s colour, chaos and curry. But there’s also a millionaire living in the slums. A charity feeding 60,000 kids a day. And a luxury hotel stay that cost less than your average UK B&B.

From the dizzying traffic of Mumbai to the joy of Holi, from spiritual traditions to shocking contrasts — Sally’s experiences are unforgettable, and this episode will leave you wondering why you haven’t booked India yet.

Episode Highlights

[03:59] Sally reveals how adding Mumbai to her trip made the flight cheaper.

[05:55] A single charity is feeding 60,000 children a day — find out how.

[10:12] What it’s really like to witness people riding on top of moving trains.

[13:22] Inside one of the world’s most famous hotels — for the price of a Premier Inn.

[15:15] Sally’s most unforgettable moment? It wasn’t the Taj Mahal.

[19:04] What the slums of Mumbai really contain might surprise you.

[27:02] A once-a-year festival where strangers throw paint on your face.

[30:17] Why cow urine is sprinkled on bonfires — and what it means.

If you're interested in exploring this life-changing country, contact your Not Just Travel consultant who shared this podcast with you, or go to notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find a consultant near you.

Have a question?

Have a question, an idea for a future episode, or a guest you’d love to hear from? Just follow this link in to share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you.

Think a wellness holiday is just spa days and smoothies? Think again. In this episode, Hayley Sparkes chats with Andrew Barnard, CEO of Body Holiday and Stolen Time in Saint Lucia—two soulful resorts built around one goal: to help guests reset, recharge and feel like themselves again.

With over 70% of guests returning, these resorts prove that when you get wellness right, it sticks. From stress and burnout to grief and big life changes, Andrew explains how Body Holiday and Stolen Time offer something deeper than five-star service—it’s wellness travel with extra TLC, designed to meet people where they are.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - 01:42 | Pioneering Wellness Tourism

01:43 - 03:28 | World's first overseas destination spa

03:29 - 07:14 | The concept of "stealing time away from the modern world

07:15 - 09:53 | The core purpose: "to change people's lives one person at a time"

09:54 - 12:58 | The crucial distinction between luxury pampering and transformative wellness

12:59 - 18:41 | Creating Sustainable Life Change

18:42 - 21:21 | The Magic of Saint Lucia

If you're interested in exploring a wellness journey that goes beyond pampering to create real, lasting change in your life, contact your Not Just Travel consultant who shared this podcast with you, or go to notjusttravel.com and enter your postcode to find a consultant near you.