Winging It Travel Podcast

Voyascape:Travel Podcasts
  • 4.9 (27)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Winging It Travel Podcast is your weekly ticket to the world—dropping every Monday and hosted by me, James Hammond, proudly part of the Voyascape Network. This is more than just a travel podcast—it's a cinematic audio experience that takes you deep into the heart of each journey. Through rich immersive soundscapes, on-the-ground reactions, and authentic storytelling, I bring you right alongside me—whether I’m hiking up volcanoes in Guatemala, navigating the chaos of a city market in India, or camping under the stars in British Columbia. With over fifteen years of travel behind me, I've met incredible people, seen breathtaking places, and collected unforgettable stories—and now I get to share them with you. Expect a mix of: 🎧 Immersive-Audio episodes that let you hear the world as I experience it 🎙️ Raw, reflective solo episodes filled with insights, tips, and honest travel tales 🌍 Guest conversations with some of the most diverse and well-travelled people I've encountered on the road Every episode blends anecdotes, practical advice, cultural insight, and moments of pure adventure. This podcast is for travellers, dreamers, backpackers, and anyone who’s ever thought, what if I just went for it? So, if you're looking for stories to tell, tips to share, and experiences to inspire, you're in the right place. There’s so much travel content coming your way, it just might spark that trip you’ve been dreaming about for years. Welcome to a world of travel! Thank you for listening in. Please get in touch with us below. Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠ Finally, please rate the podcast five stars on your podcast app and give a positive written review. This helps the podcast grow, for free. Website - https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com Buy Winging It a coffee - buymeacoffee.com/wingingit Voyascape - https://voyascape.com Linktree - https://linktr.ee/jameshammondtravel Email - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Roaming with Hammo YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@roamingwithhammo Happy Winging It!

  1. Why Waiting Until Retirement To Travel Will Be Your Biggest Regret

    1D AGO

    Why Waiting Until Retirement To Travel Will Be Your Biggest Regret

    Why Waiting Until Retirement To Travel Will Be Your Biggest Regret Have you ever said to yourself, “I’ll travel when I retire”? In this solo episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I dive into why I believe waiting until retirement to travel could become one of your biggest regrets. After travelling to more than 75 countries over the last 15 years, I’ve realised that there will always be another excuse not to go — another promotion, another bill, another responsibility, another reason to delay your dreams. In this episode, I explore why so many people postpone travel until “someday,” and why I think that mindset can be dangerous. I talk about the realities of health, time, energy, work culture, fear, and the societal expectations that keep people trapped in routines they don’t actually enjoy. I also share personal stories and reflections from my own travels through places like Central America, Ukraine, Canada, and the USA, alongside lessons I’ve learned from years of backpacking and long-term travel. This is a deep, honest, and motivational episode about creating freedom, prioritising experiences, and making travel part of your life now — not decades into the future. In this episode, I discuss: Why retirement is never guaranteedHow the “someday” mentality leads to regretWhy travel becomes harder later in lifeThe importance of time freedom and flexibilityHow geopolitics can suddenly change travel opportunitiesWhy memories mean more than possessionsThe employee mindset vs lifestyle freedomWhy taking a sabbatical or career break can change your lifeHow travel improves confidence, perspective, and personal growthWhy meaningful experiences matter more than material things If you’ve ever dreamed of taking a career break, backpacking the world, travelling long term, or escaping the traditional 9-5 lifestyle, I hope this episode gives you the motivation to stop waiting and start planning your next adventure. Need help taking a break to travel? Check out my other podcast, Taking A Career Break with Katrina McGhee below. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TakingaCareerBreakwithKatrina Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/taking-a-career-break-with-katrina-mcghee/id1772602758 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1lRPigXIghYUw82Eqak0mF?si=30ab153333794e19 Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com✈️ Check out more great travel podcasts at https://voyascape.com📺 Now also on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@wingingittravelpodcast ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Why “I’ll Travel When I Retire” is dangerous 02:23 – Introduction to the podcast 04:03 – Reason #1: Retirement and life are never guaranteed 06:30 – Why health and energy matter for travel 07:55 – The employee mindset and time freedom 10:18 – Why geopolitics can change travel forever 12:30 – Ukraine, Central America & travelling while you can 13:47 – The danger of the “someday” mentality 15:55 – Quick podcast break & ways to support the show 16:39 – Reason #5: Memories are worth more than possessions 18:55 – Why travel memories stay with you forever 20:28 – Are jobs really worth sacrificing your life for? 23:20 – How travel improves confidence and worldview 24:45 – The value of career breaks and sabbaticals 26:05 – Doing things outside your comfort zone 26:58 – Alex Garland quote from The Beach 27:45 – Why millennials should travel now, not later 28:40 – Final thoughts and listener takeaway 29:27 – Outro -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠ Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: Instagram TikTok Facebook -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network

    32 min
  2. IMMERSIVE - The Soundscapes of Oaxaca, Mexico - Colourful Streets, The Zocalo, Busy Markets + A Local Food Tour

    MAY 11

    IMMERSIVE - The Soundscapes of Oaxaca, Mexico - Colourful Streets, The Zocalo, Busy Markets + A Local Food Tour

    IMMERSIVE - The Soundscapes of Oaxaca, Mexico - Colourful Streets, The Zocalo, Busy Markets + A Local Food Tour Oaxaca, Mexico, had been on my travel list for years, and in 2024, I finally got the chance to experience it for myself. In this immersive soundscape episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you with me through the colourful streets, lively markets, rooftop cafés and buzzing Zócalo of one of the most atmospheric cities I’ve ever visited. This episode is all about slowing down and soaking in the vibe of Oaxaca through sound, food and real-time reactions. You’ll hear church bells echo through courtyards, market vendors shouting across packed stalls, sizzling street food being cooked fresh in front of me and the energy of locals and travellers filling the city streets from morning until night. I wander through the historic centre trying incredible coffee, exploring famous landmarks like the Oaxaca Cathedral and Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, before diving headfirst into Oaxaca’s legendary food scene. From tlayudas and mole to mezcal tastings and local market snacks, this city absolutely lived up to every bit of hype I had built up in my head over the years. Honestly, this became one of my favourite cities I visited during my Central America and Mexico trip. The colours felt brighter, the food tasted richer and the atmosphere was unlike anywhere else I’ve travelled before. Oaxaca gave me that rare feeling where a destination genuinely exceeds your expectations. So put your headphones in and come walk the streets of Oaxaca with me. 🎙️ In this episode: My first impressions of Oaxaca, MexicoExploring the famous Zócalo and colourful streetsTrying traditional Oaxacan street food and mezcalVisiting Mercado Benito JuárezCoffee stops at Muss Cafe and BoulencHistoric churches and colonial architectureAn immersive Oaxaca food tour experienceWhy Oaxaca completely won me over Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com✈️ Check out more great travel podcasts at https://voyascape.com📺 Now also on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@wingingittravelpodcast ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Arriving in Oaxaca, Mexico 02:13 – Hostel vibes and first impressions 03:57 – Coffee and breakfast at Mas Cafe 06:04 – Experiencing the Oaxaca Zócalo 06:58 – Trying traditional tlayudas 08:10 – Walking the colourful streets of Oaxaca 08:31 – Oaxaca Cathedral explained 09:03 – Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán 10:15 – Why Oaxaca’s streets feel so unique 11:17 – Coffee stop at Boulenc 11:55 – Mercado Benito Juárez food tour begins 12:30 – Trying ceviche and dried insects 13:49 – Rosa de Jamaica tasting 14:24 – Mezcal tasting in Oaxaca 14:45 – Visiting a local chocolate factory 15:10 – Trying traditional Oaxacan mole 16:01 – Wandering Oaxaca at night 16:25 – Why Oaxaca exceeded every expectation 17:14 – Final reflections on the city 18:30 – Outro -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠ Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: Instagram TikTok Facebook -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. Mentioned in this episode: Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast

    21 min
  3. 10 EPIC Campervan Road Trips We’re Planning Around the World

    MAY 4

    10 EPIC Campervan Road Trips We’re Planning Around the World

    10 EPIC Campervan Road Trips We’re Planning Around the World In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m sharing 10 incredible campervan road trips that are firmly on our bucket list for the next decade. From the dramatic fjords of Norway and the remote highways of Northern Canada to the deserts of Utah, the coastline of Western Australia, and even a possible campervan adventure across Japan — these are the road trips we genuinely cannot stop thinking about. If you love freedom, open roads, wild camping, national parks, tiny coastal towns, and the idea of waking up somewhere completely different every morning, this episode is for you. I talk through why each route stands out, the best time of year to go, how long you’d realistically need, and what makes these journeys unforgettable. Whether you’re planning your own campervan adventure or just dreaming of future travels, this episode should give you plenty of inspiration. Expect epic scenery, practical road trip thoughts, and a lot of wanderlust. Road trips featured include Norway, Western Australia, Arctic Canada, Newfoundland & Labrador, Scotland’s NC500, Utah’s Mighty Five, Iceland, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, South Africa to Namibia, and Japan by campervan. If you enjoy the episode, please leave a 5-star review on your podcast app and share it with someone who loves travel and adventure. Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com✈️ Check out more great travel podcasts at https://voyascape.com📺 Now also on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@wingingittravelpodcast ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro & why campervan road trips feel like ultimate freedom 02:49 – Norway: Oslo to the Lofoten Islands 05:55 – Western Australia: Esperance to Darwin 08:52 – Vancouver to Tuktoyaktuk via the Dempster Highway 11:01 – Labrador Highway & Newfoundland Loop 14:21 – Scotland’s NC500 & the Scottish Highlands 16:48 – Utah’s Mighty Five & Valley of the Gods 18:53 – Iceland Ring Road & Golden Circle 21:05 – Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way 22:53 – South Africa to Namibia road trip dreams 24:29 – Japan by campervan? The wildcard road trip 26:18 – Final reflections on slow travel & future road trip plans 27:30 – Outro & support the podcast -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠ Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: Instagram TikTok Facebook -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network

    30 min
  4. Ep 193 w/ Amanda Kendle - Why We Shouldn't Be Travelling to Antarctica, Being A Thoughtful Traveller & The Cruel Reality of Wildlife Tourism

    APR 27

    Ep 193 w/ Amanda Kendle - Why We Shouldn't Be Travelling to Antarctica, Being A Thoughtful Traveller & The Cruel Reality of Wildlife Tourism

    Ep 193 w/ Amanda Kendle - Should You Travel to Antarctica? Ethical Travel & The Cruel Reality of Wildlife Tourism In this thought-provoking episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m joined by Amanda Kendle from The Thoughtful Travel Podcast to unpack two of the most controversial topics in modern travel: Antarctica tourism and wildlife experiences. We dive deep into the ethical dilemma of visiting one of the most fragile places on Earth. With Antarctica losing billions of tons of ice every year and tourism numbers rising fast, is it still justifiable to go? Or are we contributing to the very destruction we claim to care about? Then we shift to wildlife tourism—an industry many travellers engage with without fully understanding the consequences. From elephant riding in Thailand to tiger encounters and zoo ethics, we explore what’s really happening behind the scenes and how travel has evolved over the years. This isn’t about guilt—it’s about awareness. We both reflect honestly on our own past travel experiences, mistakes included, and discuss how travellers can make better, more responsible choices moving forward. If you’ve ever questioned the impact of your travels, this episode will challenge your perspective and help you think more critically about how you explore the world. Amanda Kendle/The Thoughtful Travel Podcast Website - https://www.notaballerina.com Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-thoughtful-travel-podcast/id1269489189 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3AwRGIPRytKa9Txnz1cGBK?si=644319aec60f4f92 Support Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com✈️ Check out more great travel podcasts at https://voyascape.com📺 Now also on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@wingingittravelpodcast ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro & welcome to Amanda Kendle 02:15 – Perth vs Vancouver: travel memories & lifestyle chat 06:45 – Topic 1: Should we travel to Antarctica? 09:50 – Shocking facts about Antarctica’s ice loss 11:15 – Tourism boom & rising visitor numbers 12:30 – The real cost of visiting Antarctica 14:30 – Carbon footprint & environmental impact explained 17:05 – Why even scientists are choosing not to return 20:00 – Can tourism ever be justified in Antarctica? 23:00 – The problem with regulation & greenwashing 25:20 – Final thoughts: would we go? 26:10 – Topic 2: Wildlife tourism ethics 26:30 – Personal stories: elephant rides & tiger encounters 31:00 – The brutal reality behind elephant tourism 34:50 – How wildlife tourism has evolved (and still needs to change) 36:00 – Seeing animals in the wild vs captivity 38:00 – Cultural differences & lack of awareness globally 39:30 – Elephant riding bans & progress in Southeast Asia 41:00 – Sanctuaries vs exploitation: what’s real? 43:00 – Are zoos ethical? The grey areas explained 46:10 – Can wildlife tourism ever be responsible? 49:30 – Safari tourism vs trophy hunting debate 51:20 – What should be banned immediately? 54:00 – Final reflections on ethical travel choices -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠ Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: Instagram TikTok Facebook -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network

    1h 27m
  5. The Songs That Build My Wanderlust & Invoke Happy Travel Memories

    APR 20

    The Songs That Build My Wanderlust & Invoke Happy Travel Memories

    What if a song could take you somewhere you've never been? Or transport you straight back to a beach, a bus ride, or an open road on the other side of the world? In this solo episode I'm sharing the songs that have shaped my travel life — from the early days of dreaming about the world from my bedroom, through my first big adventure in 2013, all the way to life on the road today. Some of these songs painted pictures of places before I'd ever set foot there. Others are locked forever to a specific moment — a sweaty dance floor in Thailand, a hungover bus ride through New Zealand, a road trip across Canada that changed everything. Seven songs. A lifetime of wanderlust. And one or two choices that might genuinely surprise you. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or still dreaming of that first big trip, this one might just make you want to book a flight, hire a campervan and disappear. 🎵 Matt Monro 🎵 Kid Francescoli 🎵 David Guetta feat. Sia 🎵 Jim Reeves 🎵 Sérgio Mendes 🎵 Percy Faith 🎵 Tiësto What songs do this for you? Drop me a message — I'd love to know. 📍 Next solo episode: 10 Campervan Road Trips on the Winging It Bucket List Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com✈️ Check out more great travel podcasts at https://voyascape.com📺 Now also on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@wingingittravelpodcast ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro: Songs That Invoke Travel Memories 01:05 – Why Music & Travel Are Deeply Connected 02:35 – Song #1: On Days Like These – The Italian Job & The Alps Inspiration 04:20 – Song #2: Moon (And It Went Like) – Ultimate Road Trip Anthem 06:05 – Song #3: Titanium – Southeast Asia Party Memories (2013) 07:55 – Bonus Mentions: Swedish House Mafia & Avicii 08:35 – Song #4: Welcome to My World – Early Travel Dreams & Tropical Escapes 10:15 – Song #5: Mas Que Nada – Australia Mine Job & Brazil World Cup Motivation 12:20 – Song #6: Theme from A Summer Place – Dreaming of Paradise & Cook Islands 14:05 – Song #7: Elements of Life – New Zealand Bus Journeys & Backpacker Life 15:25 – Bonus: XFM Podcast – Road Tripping New Zealand Laughs 16:10 – Reflections: Road Trips, Beaches & Travel Themes 17:20 – Why “Moon” Is My Defining Travel Song 18:15 – Outro + Next Episode (Future Road Trips List) 19:10 – Final Outro & Call to Action -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠ Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: Instagram TikTok Facebook -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network

    22 min
  6. From Norwich to Vancouver: A Sheltered Upbringing, Having A Travel Purpose & A Need To Learn More

    APR 13

    From Norwich to Vancouver: A Sheltered Upbringing, Having A Travel Purpose & A Need To Learn More

    In this deeply personal solo episode, I take you through my full travel journey—from growing up in Norwich with no real concept of travel, to building a life around it in Vancouver and around the world. This isn’t just a story about where I’ve been—it’s about how my mindset around travel has completely evolved over time. From partying through Southeast Asia in my early 20s, to seeking culture, connection, and purpose in my 30s… this episode breaks down the different phases of travel, what changed, and why I now see travel as a long-term lifestyle rather than a short-term escape. I also share honest reflections on burnout, money, building a travel-focused career, and what the future of travel looks like for me. If you’ve ever wondered how travel fits into your life long-term—or how your relationship with it might change over time—this one’s for you. To finish, I want to share with you, the audience, an episode where you get to know me more. I have been doing this for five years, and I believe sharing more personal details will help build a tighter Winging It community. I hope you enjoy the episode and that it inspires you to travel for the first time or to dream about making it a lifestyle. Drop me a comment on your thoughts, too. Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com✈️ Check out more great travel podcasts at https://voyascape.com ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Why I’m sharing this story 02:00 Growing up in Norwich & early curiosity about the world 05:30 School trips & no real travel mindset yet 08:00 Moving to London & first exposure to diversity 09:30 Australia 2010 – the trip that changed everything 11:30 The moment I decided to travel long-term 12:50 Ukraine road trip & first taste of raw travel 14:30 Planning the 2013 backpacking trip 15:20 Leaving the UK & heading into the unknown 17:00 First culture shock in Bangkok 18:30 Southeast Asia – party travel & backpacker life 20:00 Australia – working life & maturing 22:30 Smartphones & how travel started to change 23:30 South America solo travel & shift to culture 25:00 Realising travel had evolved for me 26:00 India 2016 – second major culture shock 27:30 Meeting Emma & planning long-term travel 28:30 Health scare & motivation to live fully 29:30 15 months of travel as a couple 31:00 New Zealand, Cook Islands & finding “paradise” 32:00 Turning 30 mindset shift & continuing travel 32:30 Moving to Canada & new chapter 33:00 COVID & travel uncertainty 34:30 Starting the podcast during lockdown 35:00 Planning the 1-year world trip 36:00 Travel becomes a lifestyle, not a phase 37:00 The reality of trying to make money while travelling 38:00 Returning to work & rebuilding 39:30 How I see travel now 40:00 The future: combining work & travel 41:00 Why having a base matters 41:50 Upcoming trips & current lifestyle 42:00 Travel in my late 30s vs early 20s 43:00 Advice for travellers (young & older) 44:00 Final reflections on travel & life 45:00 Personal facts & closing thoughts 46:30 Where to find me & support the podcast -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠ Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: Instagram TikTok Facebook -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network

    50 min
  7. How to Spend 3 Days in Victoria, British Columbia - The Ultimate Walkable Travel Guide

    APR 7

    How to Spend 3 Days in Victoria, British Columbia - The Ultimate Walkable Travel Guide

    How to Spend 3 Days in Victoria, BC | Ultimate Walkable Travel Guide In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you through a full 4-night-3-day, no-car travel guide to Victoria, BC—perfect for a long weekend on Vancouver Island. From ferry mishaps and transport hacks to standout brunch spots, coffee culture, and celiac-friendly eats, this is a practical, real-world itinerary you can actually follow. You’ll hear exactly how we navigated the city on foot and public transport, including costs, timing, and what’s truly worth your time. We explore cultural highlights like the Royal BC Museum, wander through Chinatown Victoria—the oldest in Canada—and walk the iconic Fan Tan Alley. Expect plenty of coffee stops, coastal walks, and honest takes on popular spots. This guide is ideal for budget travellers, backpackers, and anyone visiting Victoria without a car, with loads of tips to help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of your time. Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com✈️ Check out more great travel podcasts at https://voyascape.com ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro + what to expect 02:00 – Ferry chaos + getting to Victoria 04:20 – Arrival + hotel + getting around 05:00 – Day 1: Brunch, coffee & Royal BC Museum 08:50 – Chinatown, Fan Tan Alley & harbour walk 10:00 – Dinner: gluten-free Chinese spot 10:30 – Day 2: Parkrun + brunch spots 12:00 – Walking the city + coffee + donuts 13:30 – Dinner: standout Mexican food 14:40 – Day 3: Cafés, bakeries & local favourites 15:20 – Mile Zero + Terry Fox story 16:30 – Public transport tips + pub stop 17:40 – Trendy cafés + harbour drinks 18:50 – Vegan/gluten-free dinner 19:20 – Final morning walk + views 20:00 – Travel wrap-up + heading home 20:10 – Final thoughts -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠ Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: Instagram TikTok Facebook -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. Mentioned in this episode: Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast

    24 min
  8. REVISITED IN 2026 - Episode 2 - One Week In Lub D, Bangkok, Thailand - Thoughts From My Trip To Bangkok In 2025 vs 2013 Experience

    MAR 30

    REVISITED IN 2026 - Episode 2 - One Week In Lub D, Bangkok, Thailand - Thoughts From My Trip To Bangkok In 2025 vs 2013 Experience

    REVISITING Episode 2 - One Week In Lub D, Bangkok, Thailand. Bangkok Then vs My Trip in December 2025 In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I go back to where it all began—Bangkok, Thailand. Originally recorded as Episode 2 in 2021, this was my first real taste of long-term travel back in 2013, stepping into Southeast Asia with no expectations, no real plan, and honestly, no idea what I was getting myself into. Fast forward to 2025, I’ve returned to Bangkok after over a decade of travel experience, and everything feels different—yet strangely familiar. In this revisit, I break down eight defining moments from that original trip, from hostel life and street food discoveries to tuk-tuk scams, cultural landmarks, and some uncomfortable travel lessons that shaped how I explore the world today. This episode is a mix of nostalgia, honest reflection, and practical insight for anyone planning their first trip to Bangkok—or looking back on how travel has changed over time. You’ll hear what Bangkok was like before smartphones dominated travel, how the backpacker scene has evolved, and whether the city's chaos, charm, and magic still holds up in 2025. Bangkok always holds a special place in my heart, thanks to the truly breathtaking experiences I had there and, more importantly, to the great people I met. My trip in 2025 was a completely different type of trip, but I still loved visiting this great city, which I call my favourite, and it still is that for sure! A note to add, this is not a PC episode from 2021, so there are some grim stories and terms in there, but this is to share all of my experiences as they happened in 2013. I didn't want to sugarcoat the experience. I also cringe at the older episodes of Winging It and have done my best to clean up the audio and take out the gaps but it is all part of the podcasting journey. Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com✈️ Check out more great travel podcasts at https://voyascape.com ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Revisiting Bangkok: A Journey Through Time 02:55 The Allure of Lub D Hostel 05:51 Culinary Adventures: Thai Food and Street Culture 09:08 Navigating Bangkok: Tuk Tuk Scams and Transportation 12:06 Social Connections: Meeting Fellow Travellers 14:57 The Grand Palace Experience: A Cultural Exploration 33:17 Exploring Bangkok's Iconic Landmarks 36:10 The Controversial Tiger Reserve Experience 46:58 Nightlife Adventures on Khao San Road 54:13 A Classy Farewell at the Hangover Hotel 01:00:55 Reflections on Bangkok and Future Travels -------------------------------------------------------------- Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠ Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/ Winging It Travel Podcast - Website -------------------------------------------------------------- Winging It Travel Podcast Credits Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com Social Media - follow me on: Instagram TikTok Facebook -------------------------------------------------------------- Affiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here Booking.com - Here Book Experiences With Viator - Here Discovery Car Hire - Here Book Buses With Busbud - Here Book Trains With Trainline - Here Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here -------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Cheers James. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: Smart Travel Podcast Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network

    1h 9m
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About

The Winging It Travel Podcast is your weekly ticket to the world—dropping every Monday and hosted by me, James Hammond, proudly part of the Voyascape Network. This is more than just a travel podcast—it's a cinematic audio experience that takes you deep into the heart of each journey. Through rich immersive soundscapes, on-the-ground reactions, and authentic storytelling, I bring you right alongside me—whether I’m hiking up volcanoes in Guatemala, navigating the chaos of a city market in India, or camping under the stars in British Columbia. With over fifteen years of travel behind me, I've met incredible people, seen breathtaking places, and collected unforgettable stories—and now I get to share them with you. Expect a mix of: 🎧 Immersive-Audio episodes that let you hear the world as I experience it 🎙️ Raw, reflective solo episodes filled with insights, tips, and honest travel tales 🌍 Guest conversations with some of the most diverse and well-travelled people I've encountered on the road Every episode blends anecdotes, practical advice, cultural insight, and moments of pure adventure. This podcast is for travellers, dreamers, backpackers, and anyone who’s ever thought, what if I just went for it? So, if you're looking for stories to tell, tips to share, and experiences to inspire, you're in the right place. There’s so much travel content coming your way, it just might spark that trip you’ve been dreaming about for years. Welcome to a world of travel! Thank you for listening in. Please get in touch with us below. Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠ Finally, please rate the podcast five stars on your podcast app and give a positive written review. This helps the podcast grow, for free. Website - https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com Buy Winging It a coffee - buymeacoffee.com/wingingit Voyascape - https://voyascape.com Linktree - https://linktr.ee/jameshammondtravel Email - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com Roaming with Hammo YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@roamingwithhammo Happy Winging It!

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