Tourist to Traveller

Tahnee Donkin

Tourist to Traveller is a travel podcast for curious, time-poor adventurers who want to travel deeper, smarter, and more intentionally, without quitting their 9-5. Hosted by Tahnee, a long-time traveller, travel blogger, and bucket-list chaser, this podcast helps you move beyond ticking off landmarks and into truly memorable travel experiences. Think practical travel tips, realistic itineraries, destination guides, and behind-the-scenes lessons from balancing full-time work with epic adventures. From underrated destinations and iconic bucket list journeys to travel planning hacks, packing strategies, and slow, responsible travel insights, Tourist to Traveller is here to help you travel better, not just more. Whether you’re planning your next adventure, dreaming of future travels, or looking for inspiration to live a more travel-rich life, this podcast will help you shift from tourist to traveller. 

  1. 10h ago

    The Ultimate Fes, Morocco Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, See & Eat

    Fes was one of the most disorienting yet fascinating cities I visited in Morocco. The moment you step through the gates of the ancient medina, you're surrounded by a maze of narrow alleyways, the smell of spices and freshly baked bread, and donkeys carrying goods through streets that feel as though they've barely changed in centuries. It's chaotic, sometimes overwhelming, and not always the easiest place to navigate. But that's also what makes Fes so memorable. While Marrakech is often the first Moroccan city that comes to mind, Fes offers a different experience, with centuries of history, traditional craftsmanship and a glimpse into everyday Moroccan life. In this episode of Tourist to Traveller, I'm sharing my ultimate Fes travel guide, including the best things to do, what to eat, where to stay and the practical tips that'll help you plan your visit with confidence. Whether you're visiting Morocco for the first time or working out how to fit Fes into a longer itinerary, this episode will help you make the most of your adventure. What You'll Learn in This Episode The best things to do and see in Fes, MoroccoWhat makes the ancient Fes el-Bali medina so specialWhat to expect when visiting the famous Chouara TanneryThe historical sites and traditional architecture worth exploringWhat to eat in Fes and how to discover local Moroccan cuisineThe best time to visit Fes and how many days to allowI'll take you through the highlights, from the colourful dye vats of Chouara Tannery to the beautiful tilework and carved cedar of Bou Inania and Al-Attarine madrasas. I'll also explore the history of Al Quaraouiyine, widely recognised as one of the world's oldest continually operating educational institutions. Helpful Resources & Links My Morocco Destination Guide — Visit Tourist to Traveller to find my Morocco destination resources and start planning your trip.The Ultimate Fes, Morocco Travel Guide — Explore the sights, accommodation recommendations and practical travel tips in more detail.Connect & Explore Find destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration.

  2. Oct 18

    24 Unique Travel Gift Ideas They’ll Actually Use (Stylish & Practical)

    Finding a gift for someone who loves to travel sounds easy enough… until you realise they probably already own three passport holders, a collection of baggage tags and enough travel-themed mugs to last a lifetime. After around 20 years of travelling while balancing a full-time job, I’ve learnt that the best travel gifts aren’t necessarily the most expensive or the most obvious. They’re the things that make an adventure easier, help you capture an incredible moment or inspire you to experience somewhere new. In this episode of Tourist to Traveller, I’m sharing 24 unique travel gift ideas that are practical, stylish and genuinely worth considering. From clever photography gear and travel accessories to off-grid escapes and memorable experiences, there’s something for every kind of traveller. I’m also sharing the travel gifts I’d skip, so you can spend your money on something they’ll actually use. What You’ll Learn in This Episode 24 unique travel gift ideas for frequent flyers, adventure seekers, photographers and road-trippersStylish travel accessories that combine practicality with good designPhotography gifts for capturing incredible travel memories, from compact tripods to drones and underwater camera accessoriesUseful travel essentials for packing, organising documents and making long journeys more comfortableExperience-based gifts, including tiny house getaways and unforgettable adventuresTravel gifts I’d avoid buying, and what I’d choose insteadStylish gifts for travel photographers 1. The Actually Stylish Camera Bag – Taz + Tez: Taz + Tez  2. A Travel-Ready Drone: DJI Mini 5 Pro: DJI Mini 5 Pro  3. Tiny House Getaway Voucher: Read Why Everyone Should Do A Yearly Off-Grid Tiny House Stay (And How To Plan Yours). 4. Travel-Friendly Camera Accessories from URTH: URTH 5. Multi-Tasking Power Bank 6. Picnic Wine Table 7. Luxury Travel Skincare 8. Pocket Projector 9. Document Wallet 10. Waterproof Jewellery from Atolea: Atolea  11. Versatile Travel Friendly Scarf 12. The Perfect Lightweight Linen Shirt: CABO Palms Shirt Dress from White Bohemian 13. Noise-Cancelling Headphones  14. Airport Lounge Pass 15. Lightweight Travel Tripod (with Mobile Attachment) 16. AirTags 17. Universal Travel Adapter 18. Hanging Toiletry Bag 19. AirFly Wireless Adapter: AirFly  20. Wooden World Map: Enjoy The Wood  21. Packing Cubes 22. Waterproof Action Camera 23. Underwater Dome Housing for Phones: GDome  24. Experiences  Disclosure: Some links in the accompanying blog guide may be affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. Connect & Explore Find destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration.

  3. Oct 11

    Visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan: What It’s Really Like to Float

    There are places you visit because they’re jaw-droppingly beautiful. And then there are places you visit because the experience is so strange and unique that you spend the entire time thinking, “How is this actually real?” The Dead Sea in Jordan is definitely the second kind. When I visited, I knew I was going to float. What I didn’t realise was quite how weird that would feel... or how difficult it would be to get comfortable when your legs are determined to pop out of the water. Add sharp salt crystals, very unhappy cuts, and the danger of getting saltwater anywhere near your eyes, and the Instagram version suddenly looks very different! In this episode of Tourist to Traveller, I’m sharing what it’s really like to visit the Dead Sea in Jordan, including what surprised me, what I wish I’d known before getting in and how I’d plan the experience into a wider Jordan itinerary. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What it actually feels like to float in the Dead SeaWhy cuts and cracked skin can make the experience surprisingly painfulThe very important reason you should keep your head above waterWhat happens to your skin when you get outThe best time of year and time of day to visitWhere to stay (If I went again, I'd stay at Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea, or Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa)Helpful Resources & Links Continue planning Jordan: Floating on the Dead Sea in Jordan - A deeper dive into what's covered in this episode. Ultimate Jordan Travel Guide - everything you need to know before planning your tripHow to Visit Petra, Jordan - practical tips for planning your Petra experienceWadi Rum, Jordan - what it’s like to experience Jordan’s spectacular desert landscapeConnect & Explore Find destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration.

  4. Oct 4

    Which Vanuatu Island Should You Visit? Efate, Tanna, Santo & More

    Vanuatu has 83 islands, but that doesn’t mean you need to visit 83... or even five. When I started planning my own Vanuatu trip, I found myself wondering whether we were making the wrong choice by only visiting two islands. Were we going to miss out on Santo? Should we have tried to squeeze in another island? And would we regret not seeing more? After eight days split between Efate and Tanna, I came away convinced that Vanuatu is a destination where depth beats coverage. In this episode of Tourist to Traveller, I’m breaking down the main Vanuatu islands travellers consider and, more importantly, helping you work out which island is right for the way you actually like to travel. Because the best Vanuatu island isn't necessarily the one with the prettiest Instagram photos. It’s the one that gives you the experiences you travelled all that way for. What You'll Learn in This Episode Which Vanuatu island is best for first-time visitorsWhat makes Efate such a good starting pointWhy Tanna is ideal for adventure, culture and Mount YasurWhether Espiritu Santo is better suited to your travel styleHow many Vanuatu islands you should realistically visitWhat to know about domestic flights and island-hoppingHelpful Resources & Links Read the full blog: Which Vanuatu Island Should You Choose?  I've also written several Vanuatu guides to help you go deeper: Best Things to Do on Efate IslandTanna Island & Mount Yasur: Complete Guide25 Fascinating Things to Know Before Travelling to VanuatuConnect & Explore Find destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration.

  5. Sep 27

    The Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist: 20 Things to Do Before You Travel

    There’s something exciting about having a big trip just around the corner. The flights are booked, the accommodation is sorted, and you’re already imagining yourself at the destination. Then suddenly you realise… there’s still an enormous list of things to do before you actually leave. After years of travelling, I’ve learnt that the things that cause the most stress aren’t always the big things. Sometimes it’s a blocked bank card, an overlooked baggage allowance, no internet when you land, or realising you forgot to download something you desperately need. In this episode of Tourist to Traveller, I’m taking you through my ultimate pre-travel checklist... the practical things I recommend sorting before you take off, so you can arrive feeling prepared rather than overwhelmed. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to pack smarter and avoid taking half your wardrobeWhy travel insurance should be part of your trip planningHow to prepare your money and avoid card problems overseasWhy you need to check the baggage allowance for every flightHow to plan your first few hours after landingThe essential apps, maps and tech to download before you leaveHow to protect your important travel documentsHow a little destination research can make your trip easier and more enjoyableExtra considerations if you’re travelling soloHelpful Resources & Links The Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist: Read my blog post Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist to help you work through everything before your next trip... from documents and packing to money, tech, your home and arrival plans. Connect & Explore Find destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration.

  6. Sep 20

    Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Egypt - Egypt Travel Tips

    Egypt had been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. Growing up, my dad would read us books about the world, ancient history, animals and different countries instead of the usual bedtime stories. Somewhere amongst those books were the pyramids, the Sphinx and the stories of ancient Egypt. So when I finally stood in front of the pyramids, it wasn't just another travel experience. It was a childhood dream coming to life. But Egypt also surprised me in ways I hadn't expected. From discovering that our tour bus had an armed guard, to navigating persistent sellers, unexpectedly long travel days and an unauthorised road that put our group in a very uncomfortable situation, there were plenty of things I wish I'd known before travelling to Egypt. There were also moments that completely blew me away... exploring ancient tombs with an Egyptologist, learning to understand hieroglyphics, sailing the Nile on a traditional felucca and seeing just how much ancient history is woven into everyday Egypt. In this episode, I'm sharing the things I wish I knew before visiting Egypt, including the good, the challenging, the surprising and the practical lessons I'd want another traveller to know before they go. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why safety was one of my biggest considerationsWhy I chose to travel around Egypt with a groupThe surprising story of the armed guard on our tour busWhat to expect at the pyramids and major tourist sitesWhat it's like travelling through military checkpointsWhy having an Egyptologist guide transformed my experienceWhat it's really like to sail on a traditional Nile feluccaHelpful Resources & Links Sailing the Nile on a Felucca: My Unforgettable Egypt Adventure Read the full story of my experience sailing and sleeping on a traditional felucca on the Nile. 20 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Egypt Read the companion article with all 20 lessons, practical tips and stories from my trip. Connect & Explore Find destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration.

  7. Sep 13

    The Most Instagrammable Places in Palau, Micronesia: 16 Epic Photo Spots

    If you’ve ever scrolled past a photo of Palau in Micronesia and wondered, surely that water can’t actually be that blue, I have good news… it really is. Palau is one of those rare destinations where reality genuinely looks like the photos. Think jungle-covered limestone islands floating in impossibly turquoise water, hidden waterfalls, white limestone mud, traditional meeting houses, WWII ruins and an underwater world filled with reef sharks, manta rays and giant clams. But where are those iconic photos actually taken? In this episode of Tourist to Traveller, I’m taking you behind the lens and sharing 16 of the most Instagrammable places in Palau, Micronesia... including what makes each location special and how to capture beautiful travel photos even if you’re using nothing more than your mobile phone. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The best places to photograph Palau’s famous Rock Islands from aboveWhy kayaking is one of the best ways to photograph the Rock IslandsThe most photogenic waterfalls, beaches and cultural landmarksWhere to find Palau’s fascinating WWII sitesThe best locations for sunset and tropical island photographyPalau’s incredible underwater photography opportunitiesHelpful Resources & Links Dive deeper into The Most Instagrammable Spots in Palau in my full blog post.  Continue Exploring Palau Kayaking the Rock Islands of Palau: discover what it’s really like to explore this extraordinary landscape from the water.Where to Stay in Palau: compare accommodation options and find the right base for your adventure.Best Tours to Do in Palau: discover the experiences worth adding to your itinerary.Ultimate Travel Guide to Palau: my complete guide to planning a Palau adventure, including a seven-day itinerary.Connect & Explore Find destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration.

  8. Sep 5

    Sailing the Nile on a Felucca: My Unforgettable Egypt Adventure

    What if you had the choice between two nights in a five-star hotel or two nights sleeping under the stars on a traditional sailing boat on the Nile? When I travelled to Egypt, I never planned to sail the Nile on a felucca. In fact, I had already booked the luxury accommodation. But when our guide offered us the chance to swap the hotel for a couple of nights on a traditional felucca, we decided to say yes to the adventure. And I'm so glad we did. What followed was one of my most memorable Egypt travel experiences... sleeping on a communal mattress, watching the sun rise and set over the Nile, sharing meals, playing games, meeting locals and simply slowing down as Egypt drifted past us. What You'll Learn in This Episode What it's really like to spend two nights sailing the Nile on a feluccaWhy I chose a traditional sailing boat over five-star accommodationWhat life is like onboard a Nile feluccaHow a felucca compares with a traditional Nile cruiseWhat to pack for a felucca experienceMy biggest lesson from saying yes to an unplanned adventureHelpful Resources & Links Read the full guide: Sailing the Nile on a Felucca: What It's Really Like + What to Pack Choose the right group tour: How to Choose The Perfect Group Trip: My Personal Selection Process  Connect & Explore Find destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration.

Trailer

About

Tourist to Traveller is a travel podcast for curious, time-poor adventurers who want to travel deeper, smarter, and more intentionally, without quitting their 9-5. Hosted by Tahnee, a long-time traveller, travel blogger, and bucket-list chaser, this podcast helps you move beyond ticking off landmarks and into truly memorable travel experiences. Think practical travel tips, realistic itineraries, destination guides, and behind-the-scenes lessons from balancing full-time work with epic adventures. From underrated destinations and iconic bucket list journeys to travel planning hacks, packing strategies, and slow, responsible travel insights, Tourist to Traveller is here to help you travel better, not just more. Whether you’re planning your next adventure, dreaming of future travels, or looking for inspiration to live a more travel-rich life, this podcast will help you shift from tourist to traveller. 

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