Wander Your Way: Europe Travel Your Way

Lynne Nieman
  • 4.8 (97)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Biweekly

Ready to skip the cookie-cutter itinerary and experience Europe travel your way? Hosted by Lynne Nieman, Wander Your Way: Europe Travel Your Way is the podcast for independent travelers who crave off-the-beaten-path destinations, authentic local connections, and thoughtfully planned European adventures. Each episode is filled with practical Europe travel tips, destination inspiration, and insider advice to help you design a personalized Europe itinerary. Discover hidden gems in Scotland, Ireland, Italy, France, Switzerland, and beyond — along with guidance on accommodations, transportation, cultural experiences, and how to travel deeper, not faster. Some shows feature Lynne’s firsthand stories from years of exploring Europe; others include expert guests sharing regional knowledge, travel strategies, and unique experiences you won’t find in a typical guidebook. If you’re looking for meaningful, independent Europe travel — with scenic landscapes, charming villages, incredible food, and immersive experiences — this podcast will help you plan with confidence. Subscribe now and start creating your next Europe adventure. Find more Europe travel resources at wanderyourway.com.

  1. 4d ago

    House Sitting My Way Through Southern England: Discovering New Places

    What if where you stayed actually changed the way you traveled? For several weeks this summer, I tried house sitting in England, piecing together three different dog sits as I traveled through the southern part of the country.  Along the way, I spent time in places I might never have visited otherwise, from rural Hampshire and Winchester to Bradford on Avon and Axbridge. In this episode, I’m sharing what house sitting is really like, how I made it work without a car, and some of the new places I discovered along the way. I’ll also talk about the benefits — and responsibilities — of house and pet sitting and why it can be an interesting way to travel longer, spend less on accommodations and experience a destination a little more like a local. If you love dogs (or cats or any other animals), slower travel and discovering places beyond Europe’s usual stops, house sitting might just be another way to Wander Your Way. Want to chat more about pet sitting or any of these destinations? Send me a message at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com. In this episode:1:40: Intro 2:39: How housesitting works 10:53: Worthing 12:34: Winchester 18:12: Droxford 24:55: Bradford-on-Avon 30:15: Bath 33:36: Badgworth & Axbridge 37:07: Final thoughts 42:33: Wrapping it up Important links:Trusted Housesitters Mind My House Nomador TASC Clothing Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources ★ Support this podcast ★

    House Sitting My Way Through Southern England: Discovering New Places

  2. Sep 29

    Language Tips for More Meaningful Travel with Margherita Berti

    Do you learn a few words of the local language before traveling to another country? Even knowing how to say hello, please and thank you can make a difference. But learning a little more can open the door to deeper connections with the people you meet along the way. In this episode, I’m joined by Margherita Berti, founder of Italian Matters, to talk about how learning and using the local language can lead to a more meaningful travel experience. Margherita grew up in Bergamo, Italy, and has spent years studying languages, linguistics and how we actually learn to communicate in another language. She shares practical tips for learning before you travel, from flashcards and podcasts to music, movies and the shadowing technique. We also talk about which words and phrases are most useful, why it helps to prepare for situations you know you'll encounter, and how to get past the fear of making a mistake and actually speak the language once you're there. Because you don't need to be fluent. And you definitely don't need to be perfect. Sometimes simply making the effort to speak a few words in the local language can create a connection — and become one of those moments you remember long after the trip is over. In this episode:1:10: Intro 1:53: About Margherita Berti 4:02: Italy to Indiana 10:24: Various learning tools 16:04: Key phrases to learn 18:01: Understanding creates connection 19:40: Using translating apps 22:51: Teaching English speakers 27:31: Advice for confident speaking 33:44: Margherita's final tips & thoughts 36:18: Lynne's final tips & thoughts 41:10: Wrapping it up Important links:Italian Matters Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources Safety Wing Tips For Traveling in Another Language ★ Support this podcast ★

    Language Tips for More Meaningful Travel with Margherita Berti

  3. Sep 15

    Why Independent Travelers Will Love Small Group Travel

    I love independent travel.  I love being able to go where I want, when I want, and experience a destination in my own way. So I wasn't entirely sure how I would feel about small group travel. Yes, I know.  I offer small group trips. 😄 But turns out, I love it. In this episode, I'm sharing 9 reasons why independent travelers might just love small group travel too — from handing over the logistics and having knowledgeable local guides to getting into places that can be more difficult to experience on your own. We'll also talk about soft adventure, spending time in nature, experiencing the culture of a destination, leaving room for spontaneity and — perhaps most importantly — sharing those incredible travel moments with a small group of like-minded travelers. And small group travel doesn't mean giving up your independence completely.  There's still room for downtime, wandering on your own and simply doing your own thing. Small group travel may not be for everyone.  But if you're an independent traveler who has always thought, "Group travel isn't for me," this episode might just change your mind. In this episode:0:50: Intro 7:30: First...a story 11:34: Don't have to worry about logistics 13:47: Experience places you may not get to on your own 17:02: Local guides and their knowledge 20:50: Time for soft adventure and in being nature 27:22: Cultural experiences as well 31:00: Allows for spontaneous moments 34:41: Sharing moments with others 39:31: Small means small 41:49: Maintain your independent time 44:57: Recap 47:05: Final thoughts 53:39: Wrapping it up In this episode:Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way ★ Support this podcast ★

    Why Independent Travelers Will Love Small Group Travel

  4. Sep 1

    How to Embrace the Joy of Slow Travel in Europe with Renee Hannes

    What if traveling more slowly isn’t about how much time you have, but how you choose to use that time? In this episode, I’m joined by Renee Hannes of Dream Plan Experience to talk about slow travel, intentional travel and the joy of returning to places we’ve already visited. We chat about why asking “How do I want this trip to feel?” can completely change the way you plan, how leaving more unplanned time can lead to some of your favorite travel memories, and why you don’t have to see everything on one trip. We also delve into the benefits of revisiting destinations — one of my favorite things to do. Returning to a place you love gives you the chance to peel back another layer, discover something you missed the first (or second) time and experience it through a completely different lens. And Renee and I share a few simple ways to incorporate slow travel into your next trip to Europe — even if you only have a week or two. If you’re ready to travel with a little more intention and a little less rushing, be sure to tune in. Want to chat more about slow travel? Send me a message at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com. In this episode:2:28: Renee Hannes' bio 5:40: Renee's travel story rooted in Germany 12:08: Starting a travel business 15:55: Tuscany retreat 17:40: Mindset for slow travel 27:17: Revisiting places 39:07: Same place, new discoveries 50:00: Revisiting places is for some and not for others 55:25: Final thoughts from Renee 57:40: Some final thoughts from Lynne 1:01:28: Wrapping it up Important links:Dream Plan Experience Slow Travel 10 Helpful Things I Wish More Travelers Knew About EuropeWander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources Eagle Creek ★ Support this podcast ★

    How to Embrace the Joy of Slow Travel in Europe with Renee Hannes

  5. Aug 18

    Delving Deeper into Amazing Germany with Cate Brubaker of My Germany Vacation

    Germany is so much more than Bavaria, beer gardens and castles. In this episode of the Wander Your Way podcast, I’m joined by Germany travel expert Cate Brubaker of My Germany Vacation to dig a little deeper into this fascinating and diverse country. Cate has been traveling to and living in Germany since she spent her senior year of high school there.  She went on to earn bachelor's, master's and PhD degrees in German and has spent decades exploring the country.  So when it comes to Germany, she has a lot of knowledge to share! We talk about some of Cate's favorite places, including history-filled Berlin, the lively university city of Freiburg and the beautiful Black Forest, and the maritime city of Hamburg in northern Germany. But we venture even farther beyond the usual stops as Cate introduces us to Germany's northern islands, including Sylt, Rügen and the car-free island of Hiddensee, where you'll find beaches, hiking trails and landscapes that might completely change the way you picture Germany. Along the way, Cate shares practical advice about traveling by train versus renting a car, getting around without speaking German and why your travel style should help determine how you move around the country. And, of course, we couldn't talk about Germany without talking about Christmas markets!  Cate shares some of her favorites and explains why smaller neighborhood markets can sometimes offer an even more memorable experience than the famous ones. If you've only thought of Germany as Munich, Bavaria and the Alps, this conversation just might inspire you to dig a little deeper. Want to chat more about Germany? Send me a message at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com. In this episode:1:58: Intro 4:08: Getting to know Cate 13:46: Cate’s top 3 destinations 16:40: Berlin: The Wall 25:51: Freiburg: The Black Forest 39:54: Hamburg: Harbors, Canals, Lakes 48:15: Honorable Mention: The Islands 52:12: Logistics & Tips 55:45: Christmas Markets 1:06:06: Final thoughts 1:08:18: Wrapping it up Important links: My Germany Vacation Germany Travel Planning PodcastWander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources REI ★ Support this podcast ★

    Delving Deeper into Amazing Germany with Cate Brubaker of My Germany Vacation

  6. Aug 4

    10 Helpful Things I Wish More Travelers Knew About Europe

    Planning a trip to Europe? Before you book your flights or start mapping out your itinerary, there are a few things I wish more travelers knew before they go. In this episode, I share 10 helpful insights I've learned through years of traveling throughout Europe and helping clients plan their adventures. We talk about why Europe's famous cities are only part of the story, why distances can be deceiving, and why trains aren't always the best transportation option. I also explain why you don't need to see every famous attraction to have an incredible trip. You'll learn how Europe's national parks differ from those in North America, why walking is a part of everyday life, and why leaving room for spontaneity often leads to the most memorable travel experiences. Whether you're planning your first trip to Europe or your tenth, I hope these tips help you create a journey that's less rushed, more meaningful, and truly your own. Want to chat more about this topic? Email me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com In this episode:1:01: Intro 3:39: More than big cities 6:35: Natural destinations are amazing 8:21: National parks are different 10:27: Trains aren’t always best option 13:16: Europe doesn't have to be expensive 17:27: Distances can be deceiving 20:14: Walking is a way of life 23:14: Each country is unique 24:33: You don't have to see it all 27:21: You don't have to have it all planned 29:38: Recap and final thoughts 32:34: Wrapping it up Important links: 6 Tips to Help You Travel Cheaper to Europe Tips for Train Travel in Europe Discover Soft Adventure: Easy Ways to Explore Europe's Outdoors Slow Travel 3 Quick Tips for Planning Your Trip to Europe: Making the Plan 20 Essential Travel Tips You Need To Know Before Visiting Europe Wander Your WayWander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way ResourcesPatagonia ★ Support this podcast ★

    10 Helpful Things I Wish More Travelers Knew About Europe

  7. Jul 21

    6 Awesome Tips For How To Find Hidden Feeling Places in Europe

    Despite what some people may believe, Europe isn't too crowded. Sure, some places certainly are. But there are still a plethora of destinations where you can escape the crowds and feel like you've discovered something special. One of the questions I get asked all the time is, "How do you find these places?" especially when people see me in a destination they've never even heard of. In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the process I use to uncover those "hidden feeling" places in Europe that are just a little off the main tourist track. These aren't secret destinations. They're simply places that are often overshadowed by their more famous neighbors and don't usually show up at the top of a Google search. I'll share the 6 tips I use when researching my own travels — as well as the custom itineraries I create for my travel clients — from exploring maps in a different way to asking locals the right questions. Whether you love researching every detail yourself or would rather leave the planning to someone else (like me!), these ideas will help you find destinations that feel less busy and more connected to the landscape, history, local people, and culture. If you've ever wondered how to discover places that feel like your own special find, this episode is for you. Want to chat more about this topic? Email me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com In this episode: 1:48: Intro + background 6:43: Explore the map 8:57: Follow travelers who travel like you 10:37: Search by interest 14:00: Beyond famous places 17:57: Stay longer in fewer places 22:26: Talk to the locals 24:43: Recap 26:42: Final thoughts 29:20: Wrapping it up 32:55: Listener reviews Important links: 12 Destinations in Europe That Deserve More Love Slow Travel Tips for Traveling Off the Main Tourist Track 6 Tips For Planning an Amazing Trip to Europe Slow Travel Europe Wander Your Way Wander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way Resources TASC Performance ★ Support this podcast ★

    6 Awesome Tips For How To Find Hidden Feeling Places in Europe

  8. Jul 7

    Why You Need to Visit Beautiful Chatsworth House England

    Chatsworth House is one of England's most spectacular stately homes. And in this episode, I'm taking you inside one of the Peak District's most iconic landmarks. You'll learn about its fascinating history, explore the grand rooms and beautiful gardens, discover filming locations from Pride & Prejudice and other productions, and get plenty of practical tips to help you plan your own visit. I’ll also share why I think Chatsworth is worth visiting even though it’s one of the busier sights in the Peak District. From avoiding the busiest times to making the most of the gardens, estate walks, farm shop, and nearby trails, this episode will help you experience Chatsworth House at a slower, more enjoyable pace. Want to chat more about Chatsworth House? Contact me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com In this episode:1:56: Intro 2:44: Placing Chatworth House on the map 3:30: History 6:22: Rooms you can visit 11:29: Logistics & advice 13:38: The Garden 18:27: Nearby trails & parking 20:04: Additional planning considerations 26:22: Wrapping it up Important links:Chatsworth House Discovering the Diverse and Beautiful Peak District England Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way ResourcesEagle Creek ★ Support this podcast ★

    Why You Need to Visit Beautiful Chatsworth House England
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4.8
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About

Ready to skip the cookie-cutter itinerary and experience Europe travel your way? Hosted by Lynne Nieman, Wander Your Way: Europe Travel Your Way is the podcast for independent travelers who crave off-the-beaten-path destinations, authentic local connections, and thoughtfully planned European adventures. Each episode is filled with practical Europe travel tips, destination inspiration, and insider advice to help you design a personalized Europe itinerary. Discover hidden gems in Scotland, Ireland, Italy, France, Switzerland, and beyond — along with guidance on accommodations, transportation, cultural experiences, and how to travel deeper, not faster. Some shows feature Lynne’s firsthand stories from years of exploring Europe; others include expert guests sharing regional knowledge, travel strategies, and unique experiences you won’t find in a typical guidebook. If you’re looking for meaningful, independent Europe travel — with scenic landscapes, charming villages, incredible food, and immersive experiences — this podcast will help you plan with confidence. Subscribe now and start creating your next Europe adventure. Find more Europe travel resources at wanderyourway.com.

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