Truly Expat Travel

Paula Barnes
  • 5.0 (1)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Truly Expat Travel Podcast brings you the world's best travel destinations through conversations with expats who've made foreign countries their home. Discover hidden gems, local insider tips, and authentic travel experiences you won't find in guidebooks.Each episode features expats sharing their favourite destinations, secret spots, cultural insights, and practical travel advice from cities and countries across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. From weekend getaways to bucket list adventures, food scenes to cultural experiences, our guests reveal what makes their adopted homes special.Perfect for travellers seeking authentic local perspectives, digital nomads planning their next move, or anyone dreaming of exploring the world beyond tourist traps. Get real recommendations from people who live the expat lifestyle every day.What you'll discover:• Hidden travel gems recommended by local expats• Insider tips for popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations• Cultural insights and authentic local experiences• Practical advice for international travel and living abroad• Real stories from expats around the world🌍 New episodes weekly✈️ Subscribe for authentic travel inspiration📧 Collaborations: info@trulyexpat.com

  1. 2D AGO

    Is Sydney Harbour really the most beautiful harbour in the world?

    🎙️ Is Sydney the Most Beautiful Harbour in the World? 🇦🇺 Ultimate Sydney Travel Guide + 7-Day Itinerary In this episode, Paula shares a local’s perspective on Sydney—the city she grew up in—and breaks down exactly how to experience it like you live there, not like a tourist. If you're planning a trip to Sydney (or dreaming about one), this is your complete 5–7 day itinerary, packed with iconic sights, hidden gems, and real insider tips. 🌏 In This Episode You’ll Discover: The perfect Sydney itinerary (5–7 days)Must-do experiences like the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb and visiting the Sydney Opera HouseThe truth about Bondi Beach (and where you should stay instead)The iconic Bondi to Coogee coastal walk 🏝️A local guide to beaches including Manly and beyondEasy day trips to Kurnell and the Blue MountainsWhere to eat, brunch, and soak up Sydney’s café cultureInsider tips on transport, seasons, and how to avoid tourist mistakes✨ Why This Episode is Different This isn’t a generic travel guide. It’s a local’s blueprint to Sydney—what to skip, what’s worth it, and how to experience the city the way Australians actually do. 🗓️ Quick Itinerary Snapshot Day 1: Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Circular QuayDay 2: The Rocks + Darling HarbourDay 3: Bondi → Coogee walkDay 4: Kurnell / Cronulla day tripDay 5: Ferry to ManlyBonus: Blue Mountains, wildlife parks, food tours💡 Pro Travel Tips Best time to visit: Spring (Sept–Nov)Skip the car if staying in the cityUse contactless payments (but always tap on/off!)Book ahead during peak season⭐️ Ready to Plan Your Sydney Trip? If you loved this episode: 👉 Hit Follow so you never miss a destination guide 👉 Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts (this helps more travellers find us!) 👉 Share this with someone planning a trip to Australia 🇦🇺 #SydneyTravel #AustraliaTravel #TravelPodcast Send us Fan Mail Travel with peace of mind: SafetyWingsGet covered in 180+ countries with flexible monthly subscriptions starting at just $45.08. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Find me on: Website: Truly Expat Travel  Facebook: Truly Expat Instagram: Truly Expat Travel  TikTok: Truly Expat Travel  Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

    17 min

  2. APR 28

    The Simple Travel Hack That Can Save You Hours Planning Your Next Trip

    Join host Paula Barnes as she dives into innovative travel strategies that can transform your trips — from time-saving hacks to must-have apps for planning and on-the-go. In this episode, Paula chats with Michelle from Intentional Travelers about tools and tips to make your travel smoother and more intentional. Key topics: The importance of innovative travel hacks that saved time and effortEssential apps for effective trip planning before and during travelThe value of intentional travel and how to incorporate it into your tripsPractical tips shared by Michelle that can enhance travel experiencesTimestamps: 00:01 - Unique travel hacks that will change how you see the world 00:31 - Michelle from Intentional Travelers shares top travel app recommendations 10:47 - How to support the podcast and stay updated with travel guides 11:16 - Connecting with Paula for destination inspiration and travel resources Resources & Links: Michelle from Intentional TravelersFree Pre-Trip Phone Checklist The Best Travel Planning Apps to Enhance Your Journey10 Apps that make Life EasierHappy travels and remember: the best trips are the ones you plan with intention! Send us Fan Mail Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation  Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat Travel with peace of mind: SafetyWingsGet covered in 180+ countries with flexible monthly subscriptions starting at just $45.08. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Find me on: Website: Truly Expat Travel  Facebook: Truly Expat Instagram: Truly Expat Travel  TikTok: Truly Expat Travel  Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

    12 min

  3. APR 21

    Accessible Air Travel Tips with Phoenyx from Phoenyx Travels

    If flying feels overwhelming, exhausting, or like you're starting from scratch every single trip — this episode is for you. This week I'm joined by Phoenyx from Phoenyx Travels — a content creator and accessible travel expert who has built a reputation for honest, practical advice for disabled, chronically ill, neurodivergent and sensory-sensitive travellers. We're talking about her Flight Ready Travel Kit and everything she's learned about making air travel genuinely work for people whose bodies and brains don't follow the usual rules. This is part 4 of our special 4-part travel creator series — and this one might just be the most important episode of the four. In this episode:  ✈️ Why most accessible travel advice doesn't actually help on real travel days  🧳 What the Flight Ready Travel Kit covers and who it's designed for  🗣️ How to ask for accommodations — even when words or energy are limited  ⚡ How to pace your energy before, during and after a flight  🔄 Why having a repeatable system changes everything Guest: Phoenyx — Phoenyx Travels  🔗 Flight Ready Travel Kit 🌐 Phoenyx travels Website 📸 Instagram Chapters:  00:00 — Introduction  00:29 — Meet Phoenyx from Phoenyx Travels  15:59 — Truly Expat Travel Introduction  16:28 — Travel Guides & Destinations If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs it. And if you have a story about travel you'd like to share on the podcast, get in touch at podcast@trulyexpat.com Send us Fan Mail Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation  Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat Travel with peace of mind: SafetyWingsGet covered in 180+ countries with flexible monthly subscriptions starting at just $45.08. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Find me on: Website: Truly Expat Travel  Facebook: Truly Expat Instagram: Truly Expat Travel  TikTok: Truly Expat Travel  Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

    15 min

  4. APR 15

    Digital Nomad Family Travel Tips: Finding Events & Things to Do Anywhere in the World

    You've landed somewhere new. The bags are unpacked. And then comes the question every travelling family knows too well — so what do we actually do here? This week I'm back with Julie Talbot — British ex-expat turned global nomad — who after 12 years in the UAE took the leap into full-time family travel with her husband and children. She's worldschooling her kids, running a UK property business remotely, and somehow always seems to know exactly what's on, what's worth doing, and where to find the kind of experiences that don't show up in a Google search. This is Episode 3 of our special 4-part travel creator series. This week — the practical stuff that makes nomadic family life actually work. In this episode:  🗺️ Where Julie finds events and things to do in every new destination  📱 The apps, websites and communities she swears by  👨‍👩‍👧 How to keep a travelling family engaged and entertained  💡 Tips for finding local experiences over tourist ones  About Julie: Julie Talbot is an ex-expat turned global nomad. After 12 years in the UAE she and her family took the leap into full-time travel — worldschooling her children while running a UK property business remotely. She proves every day that location independence isn't just possible, it's extraordinary. 📸 @julierosetalbot  Previously on the podcast with Julie: 🎙️ The Silk Road Chapters:  00:00 — Introduction  00:29 — Meet Julie Talbot  15:59 — Truly Expat Travel Introduction  16:28 — Travel Guides & Destinations Join me live on Instagram: Every last Wednesday of the month I go live with a different travel creator. Keep an eye on my stories for the time — @trulyexpattravel Send us Fan Mail Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation  Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat Find Your Perfect Rental Compare prices from 500+ car rental companies worldwide and save up to 70%. Best price guaranteed.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Find me on: Website: Truly Expat Travel  Facebook: Truly Expat Instagram: Truly Expat Travel  TikTok: Truly Expat Travel  Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

    16 min

  5. APR 7

    The Tulip Season Secret Most Visitors Get Wrong — with Gerrit from Hidden Holland

    Most people planning a trip to Holland for tulip season get the timing wrong. They book Keukenhof, they show up, and they either miss the peak bloom entirely or find themselves shoulder to shoulder with thousands of other tourists wondering why it doesn't look like the photos. Sound familiar? This week I'm joined by Gerrit from Hidden Holland — a specialist in Dutch travel and someone who knows the tulip fields better than almost anyone — and he's sharing exactly what most visitors get wrong, when you should actually be going, and where to find the real tulip experience beyond the tourist trail. This is a special 4-part series where I'm featuring travel creators sharing their best tips, hacks and local knowledge from four completely different corners of the world. Each episode, one creator, one destination, one set of tips that could genuinely change how you travel. This week — it's all about Holland in spring. If you're planning a trip to the Netherlands this year, listen to this before you book anything. What We Cover in This Episode 🌷 When tulip season actually peaks in Holland — and why most visitors get the timing completely wrong📍 Where the tulip fields really are beyond Keukenhof — and why locals go somewhere different entirely📸 The best spots for photos that aren't overrun with tour groups🗓️ How to plan your Netherlands spring trip around the bloom — including what happens if you get the dates wrong🚲 How to explore the fields like a local rather than a tourist💡 Gerrit's single best tip for first-time visitors to Holland in springAbout This Week's Guest Gerrit is the founder of Hidden Holland — a travel platform dedicated to showing visitors the real Netherlands beyond the obvious tourist stops. He joined me on a previous episode to talk about Amsterdam, and this week he's back with everything you need to know about tulip season. 🔗 Find Gerrit and Hidden Holland: here 📻 Missed the Amsterdam episode with Gerrit? Listen here: Episode 12, Season 1 Chapters 00:00 — The Tulip Season Secret Most Visitors Get Wrong00:29 — Meet Gerrit from Hidden Holland15:59 — Truly Expat Travel Podcast Introduction16:28 — Travel Guides & DestinationsRelated Episodes You Might Enjoy Send us Fan Mail Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation  Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat Visas Made Simple Skip the embassy lines. iVisa handles it all online—fast, easy, and stress-free.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Find me on: Website: Truly Expat Travel  Facebook: Truly Expat Instagram: Truly Expat Travel  TikTok: Truly Expat Travel  Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

    17 min

  6. MAR 31

    Seoul Then vs Now: Why This City Will Completely Surprise You

    Paula Barnes lived in Seoul 15 years ago — and honestly? It was hard. The language barrier was real, the taxis were brutal, and getting around without Korean felt nearly impossible. So when she went back, she wasn't expecting to fall in love with it. She did. In this episode, Paula goes solo to unpack everything that's changed, everything that's stayed beautifully the same, and every reason why Seoul should be at the top of your travel list. From the DMZ to Dongdaemun, Korean BBQ to Olive Young skincare halls, cherry blossom season to single-digit winter temps — this one covers it all. Whether you're planning your first trip or your fifth, this episode is your honest, no-fluff guide to Seoul. DMZ tour (respectful, highly recommended)Nanta Show — no Korean needed, funny and unmissableMyeongdong — street food, Olive Young skincare, boutique shoppingNamdaemun Market — oldest market in Seoul, try the Hotteok!Bukchon Hanok Village — go early morning for sunriseGangnam — upscale shopping mall, the iconic Gangnam statueItaewon — boutique bars, restaurants & Vatos (Korean-Mexican fusion)Courtyard Marriott Namdaemun — central location, robot room serviceGimpo Premium Factory Outlet — near the airport, worth the detourBibimbap cooking classTraditional Korean feast restaurant in MyeongdongTemple stay information centre — free activities, monk conversationsOlive Young — Korea's answer to Sephora, massive flagship in MyeongdongBest seasons to visit: cherry blossom (spring) and autumnPaula's full Seoul guides on her website: 5-day itinerary, where to stay, Send us Fan Mail Travel with peace of mind: SafetyWingsGet covered in 180+ countries with flexible monthly subscriptions starting at just $45.08. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Find me on: Website: Truly Expat Travel  Facebook: Truly Expat Instagram: Truly Expat Travel  TikTok: Truly Expat Travel  Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

    22 min

  7. MAR 24

    Madrid, Spain: Food, Flamenco & the Neighbourhoods Tourists Miss (Expat Insider Guide)

    MADRID UNCOVERED: Insider Tips, Hidden Gems & La Movida – Life in Spain's Capital Join Paula as she chats with Kristin Montgomery, an international teacher who has lived and worked across Switzerland, Singapore, Colombia, Germany and beyond – and is now back in Madrid completing a master's degree in Spanish. Kristin first fell in love with the city as a young graduate on an English assistantship program nearly 20 years ago, and she's back to tell us exactly why Madrid keeps pulling people in. Whether you're planning a first visit or adding it to your bucket list, this episode is packed with everything you need to know. And if you're on a Spain tour, make sure you also check out our episodes on Season 1 Granada (Episode 21) and Tenerife (Episode 20) – Spain really does keep delivering! Key Topics What Madrid is really famous for (hint: it's all about the vibe)Where to stay, when to visit, and how to get aroundThe best food and drinks to try – including what the locals actually orderA 3-day itinerary that goes beyond the tourist trailDay trips to Segovia and ToledoThe souvenir worth spending proper money onWhy you should choose a hotel over Airbnb right nowKristin's hidden gem neighbourhood the guidebooks overlookHelpful Links Growing Global Citizens – Kristin's website Travel with peace of mind: Airalo EsimMadrid Guided Tour of the PalaceWelcome to Madrid Walking tour Chapters 00:00 Introduction & Kristin's Global Journey 02:00 Do You Need to Speak Spanish? 04:00 Getting Around Madrid – Car vs. Public Transport 05:00 What Is Madrid Really Famous For? 07:00 Where to Stay in the City 08:00 Best Time to Visit (and Why Christmas is Special) 09:20 Festivals & National Day 10:40 What to Eat – Madrid's Love of Ham 12:00 What to Drink – Vermouth & Tinto de Verano 13 Send us Fan Mail Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation  Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat Find Your Perfect Rental Compare prices from 500+ car rental companies worldwide and save up to 70%. Best price guaranteed.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Find me on: Website: Truly Expat Travel  Facebook: Truly Expat Instagram: Truly Expat Travel  TikTok: Truly Expat Travel  Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

    34 min

  8. MAR 17

    Mérida Travel Guide: Cenotes, Flamingos & Hidden Gems in the Yucatán

    Join Paula as she chats with Jen and Brett from Expatsi about their expat journey from Birmingham, Alabama, to Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico. Discover practical tips for moving abroad, exploring local culture and cuisine, uncovering hidden gems, and how community support made their transition inspiring. Want more Mexico content, then you should listen to episode 16, where I chat with Carm about her experience in Mexico. Key Topics Expat journey from US to MexicoChoosing Merida as a destinationExploring local culture and cuisine in YucatanHidden gems and community support in MexicoHelpful Links Episode 16 - MexicoMove abroad Con 5 Essential things you should know when renewing your vows in CancunThings to do in CancunIf you want to know more about Jen and Brett, check out Expatsi here.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:50 The Journey to Merida, Mexico 02:07 Choosing Mexico: The Decision Process 04:24 Experiencing the Climate and Culture 05:40 Culinary Delights of Yucatan 10:08 Creating an Itinerary for Visitors 17:44 Heartfelt Moments in Merida 23:04 Hidden Gems and Local Recommendations 26:02 Final Tips for Future Expats 29:31 OUTRO Paula-2.mp4 Send us Fan Mail Help Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation  Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpat Travel with peace of mind: SafetyWingsGet covered in 180+ countries with flexible monthly subscriptions starting at just $45.08. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Find me on: Website: Truly Expat Travel  Facebook: Truly Expat Instagram: Truly Expat Travel  TikTok: Truly Expat Travel  Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂

    30 min
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About

Truly Expat Travel Podcast brings you the world's best travel destinations through conversations with expats who've made foreign countries their home. Discover hidden gems, local insider tips, and authentic travel experiences you won't find in guidebooks.Each episode features expats sharing their favourite destinations, secret spots, cultural insights, and practical travel advice from cities and countries across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. From weekend getaways to bucket list adventures, food scenes to cultural experiences, our guests reveal what makes their adopted homes special.Perfect for travellers seeking authentic local perspectives, digital nomads planning their next move, or anyone dreaming of exploring the world beyond tourist traps. Get real recommendations from people who live the expat lifestyle every day.What you'll discover:• Hidden travel gems recommended by local expats• Insider tips for popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations• Cultural insights and authentic local experiences• Practical advice for international travel and living abroad• Real stories from expats around the world🌍 New episodes weekly✈️ Subscribe for authentic travel inspiration📧 Collaborations: info@trulyexpat.com

Information

  • Creator
    Paula Barnes
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Truly Expat Travel
  • Show Website
    Truly Expat Travel

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