Travel Our World Podcast

Martin McGrath & Damian Urwin
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Bimonthly

The Travel Our World Podcast explores the people, places, and stories that make travel truly unforgettable. Hosted by Martin and Damian, two long-time friends with a combined 50+ years of experience in the travel industry, the show takes listeners behind the scenes of the travel world, from mountain peaks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets. Martin began his journey over 25 years ago, working across roles such as holiday rep, ski rep, chalet host, ski guide, hotel entertainer, and resort manager, bringing first-hand insight and storytelling flair to every episode. Damian has held multiple roles across the industry too and is a keen golfer with a love for discovering destinations both on and off the fairways. The two first met while working as contracting managers for a golf travel company, and their shared passion for people, travel, and a good laugh forms the heart of every episode. Season 2 introduces fresh voices and new features, including Mountain Diaries and Postcards from the Road, plus a Travel Tech & News segment highlighting what’s happening across the industry. Guest co-hosts like Chris and Owen join selected episodes, while Damian continues to shape the show as co-host and producer. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/ Email: travelourworldpodcast@gmail.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@travelourworldpodcast X: https://www.x.com/podcast_travel Bluesky: @travelourworld.bsky.social Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Jun 18

    Madeira – Where Europe Meets the Atlantic

    In this episode of Travel Our World, Martin is joined by Friend of the Pod Chris and Madeira local Fabio, Managing Director of Golf in Madeira, to explore why this Portuguese island has become one of Europe's most exciting year-round destinations. Known for its dramatic landscapes, mild climate and welcoming culture, Madeira offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation and island life in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean. Together they discuss what makes Madeira special, from the vibrant streets of Funchal and the island's connection to Cristiano Ronaldo, to spectacular levada walks, mountain sunrises and some of Europe's most scenic coastlines. In this episode we explore: Madeira's year-round climate and appealLocal culture, food and island lifeLevada walks and mountain adventuresPico do Arieiro and Pico RuivoThe famous Monte toboggan rideSurfing and outdoor activitiesFunchal and Mercado dos LavradoresSeixal Beach, Porto Moniz and Ponta de São LourençoGolf tourism and future developments on the island We also discuss overtourism, active travel trends and how AI is beginning to shape the way people plan their holidays. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, golf, food or spectacular scenery, Madeira offers something for every traveller. Follow the podcast and come along for the journey. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Episode Chapters: 00:56 Madeira Introduction 02:23 Chris First Impressions 05:08 Meet Fabio Local View 06:13 Airport Tales 07:38 Ronaldo Island Pride 10:27 Food and Culture 13:47 Best Time to Visit 16:16 Levadas and Adventure 21:32 Golf Takes Centre Stage 26:19 Active Island Wrap 27:13 Monte Toboggan Ride 29:12 Beating the Queues 30:14 Food and Stay Options 31:02 Funchal Market Visit 32:21 Local Beaches and Sunrises 34:30 Road Trip Hidden Gems 35:24 Four Day Madeira Plan 36:36 Quick Fire Favourites 38:58 Why Madeira Wins Hearts 41:10 Overtourism and Balance 42:05 Golf Destination Growth 45:31 Rise of Active Travel 48:04 AI in Trip Planning 49:46 Final Thanks and Sign Off Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey. Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable. From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/ Email: travelourworldpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. Jun 4

    Isle of Skye - Mountains, Friendship & The Road Back

    In this episode of Travel Our World, Martin travels solo to Scotland's Isle of Skye for one of the most personal journeys of Season 2. Flying from London to Inverness, he follows the famous A82 through the Scottish Highlands, passing Loch Ness and stopping at Urquhart Castle, Invermoriston Falls and Eilean Donan Castle before crossing the Skye Bridge and arriving in Portree. The purpose of the trip is to share an adventure with his oldest friend, Andy, who is returning to the mountains 17 months after suffering a stroke. Together they attempt Blà Bheinn, one of Skye's most celebrated peaks. Battling snow, poor visibility, strong winds and challenging conditions, they make the difficult decision to turn back just short of the summit, prompting a conversation about recovery, judgement, resilience and what it really means to keep moving forward. In this episode we explore: Driving through the Scottish HighlandsLoch Ness, castles and Highland historyPortree and first impressions of SkyeClimbing Blà BheinnFriendship, recovery and resilienceWhy turning back can be the right decisionThe Old Man of Storr and the QuiraingFuture adventures including the Stubai High Trail and a possible Kilimanjaro expeditionThe history, geology and culture of the Isle of Skye We also discuss the latest Travel News & Tech, including updates on the EU Entry/Exit System (EES), the rise of "coolcations", and useful travel tools such as offline maps. Follow the podcast and come along for the journey. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Episode Chapters 00:00 Skye Adventure Begins 01:53 Why Scotland Now 02:45 Andy's Comeback Story 03:50 Inverness to Highlands Drive 05:07 Loch Ness Legends 06:14 Castles and Waterfalls Stops 08:57 Crossing to Skye 09:57 First Night in Portree 11:46 Cottage Chat Setup 15:37 Blà Bheinn Attempt 19:30 Outdoor Roots and Friendship 21:43 Stroke Recovery Mindset 23:43 Pub Memories and Support 24:24 Not Reaching the Summit 25:22 Rivalry After the Stroke 26:31 Coco Joins the Chat 26:54 Old Man of Storr Tips 27:58 Next Adventures and Canoeing 30:09 Skye Plans and Austria Prep 31:05 Recovery Perspective and Pride 33:47 Isle of Skye Overview 34:56 Geology and Iconic Landscapes 37:06 History and Gaelic Roots 40:03 How to Experience Skye 41:19 Travel News & Tech 43:08 Final Reflections and Updates Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey. Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable. From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/ Email: travelourworldpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. Season 2 Trailer

    Introducing Travel Our World Extra

    Something new is here 🎙️ Introducing Travel Our World Extra — a brand new extension of the podcast. Alongside our main destination episodes, Travel Our World Extra gives us space to dive deeper into the people, stories and experiences behind travel. New voices. Different journeys. More stories from the road. 🎧 Trailer out now. 🎙 Bonus episodes dropping throughout Season 2. Follow the podcast and join us as we continue. Discovering the world one voice at a time. Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey. Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable. From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/ Email: travelourworldpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Introducing Travel Our World Extra

  4. May 16

    Everest Base Camp Stories – Part 2: Lukla to Base Camp

    In Part Two of this special Nepal series, Travel Our World continues the journey from Lukla to Everest Base Camp. After days stranded by monsoon flooding and flight cancellations, Martin, Sara and Tom finally begin their compressed nine-day trek through the Khumbu Valley, with limited acclimatisation and little room for error. From suspension bridges and prayer wheels to high-altitude teahouses and glacier crossings, this episode follows the emotional and physical reality of trekking to Everest Base Camp. In this episode we explore: The atmosphere and chaos of LuklaTrekking through Namche and TengbocheTeahouse life, dal bhat and mountain routinesAltitude struggles, illness and acclimatisationThe Khumbu Glacier and final push to Base CampEmotional moments at Everest Base CampFriendships formed on the mountainThe long journey back down the valley The group also reflects on what the experience meant to them personally, from challenge and resilience, perspective and lifelong memories. We also discuss practical trekking advice, Nepal travel updates and lessons learned from the experience. Follow the podcast and come along for the journey. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Episode Chapters 00:00 Back in Lukla 01:39 Lukla Airport Buzz 02:46 Trail Begins 03:30 Day One to Monjo 04:03 Reality Check Climb 05:39 Namche Views Missed 07:06 Porters and Perspective 08:45 Tengboche Monastery 10:37 Tea Houses and Dal Bhat 11:38 Sunrise and Goodbyes 12:50 Dingboche to Lobuche 14:38 Illness and Turnarounds 16:24 Push to Base Camp 16:58 Khumbu Glacier Awe 22:05 Arriving at Base Camp 24:17 What Base Camp Means 26:18 Friendships After Trek 26:49 Kili Next Adventure 27:01 Base Camp Silence 28:02 Proud Summit Moments 29:11 Celebrity Base Camp Pitch 30:48 Namche Pub Night 32:52 Donkeys and Hornets 35:10 Hemraj Gets Us Home 35:41 Bittersweet Return 37:10 Travel News and Tech 42:51 Would You Do It Again 44:02 Wrap Up and Thanks 46:25 Packing Lessons and Tips 50:12 Final Gratitude Outro Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey. Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable. From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/ Email: travelourworldpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. May 14

    Everest Base Camp Stories – Part 1: Delays, Floods & Lukla

    In this special two-part episode of Travel Our World, Martin is joined by fellow trekkers Sara and Tom to look back on their unforgettable Everest Base Camp trek in September 2024. What began as a planned 12-day trek through the Himalayas quickly became something very different. After arriving in Nepal with Intrepid Travel, the group found themselves stranded in Ramechhap for three days due to monsoon flooding, washed-out roads and cancelled flights into Lukla, forcing a complete rethink of the trek and compressing the route into just nine days. In Part 1, the group reflect on: Why they signed up for Everest Base CampArriving in Kathmandu and first impressions of ThamelMeeting the trekking group and guidesThe chaos and uncertainty of the Ramechhap delaysMonsoon flooding and the reality of Himalayan travelReplanning the trek in just nine daysAltitude fears, Diamox and mental preparationFinally boarding the flight to Lukla Along the way, they discuss travel motivations, challenges, resilience and the friendships that began forming before the trek had even properly started. This episode captures the uncertainty, humour and emotional build-up before setting foot on the trail. Part 2 continues the journey from Lukla through Namche, Tengboche and ultimately Everest Base Camp itself. Follow the podcast and come along for the journey. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Episode Chapters 01:23 Meet Sara and Tom 01:48 Why We Signed Up 05:25 Arriving in Kathmandu 07:37 Thamel and First Day Jitters 11:09 Meeting the Trek Group 15:20 Guide Hemraj Spotlight 17:31 First Dinner and Packing Rules 20:01 Packing Mistakes 20:41 Ramechhap Road Trip 22:26 Airport Waiting Game 24:41 Why Lukla Flights Stop 26:49 Storms Floods and Doubt 30:38 Miracle Weather Break 33:06 Nine Day Trek Plan 35:37 Finally Flying to Lukla 40:12 Touchdown and Trail Begins 41:23 Part One Wrap Up Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey. Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable. From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/ Email: travelourworldpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. Apr 30

    London - Our City

    London on Foot: Pubs, Markets and Hidden Corners from London Bridge to Seven Dials In this episode of Travel Our World, Martin is joined by friends Owen and Chris for a walking tour through the heart of London, from London Bridge to Covent Garden and Seven Dials. Starting at The George, a historic 1600s coaching inn tucked beneath The Shard, they explore the city step by step, sharing the places they love and the stories behind them. From the buzz of Borough Market and hidden railway arches to riverside pubs and iconic skyline views, this is London through a local lens, full of character, contrast and discovery. In this episode we explore: Borough Market and London’s street food sceneHidden arches, side streets and independent spotsRiverside pubs along the South BankCrossing the Thames and London skyline viewsCovent Garden, Seven Dials and TheatrelandCoffee stops, pastries and local favouritesWhat makes London such a walkable and diverse cityAlong the way, they cover everything from Uber Boats on the Thames and skyline viewpoints like Sky Garden and The Shard, to theatre ticket tips, transport options and the ever-present London pub culture. After 13,000 steps, the journey finishes in Seven Dials, reflecting on what makes London one of the world’s great cities to explore on foot. Back in the studio, Martin is joined by Damian to reflect on London as both a destination and a place to call home. We also discuss the latest travel news and tech, and check in with regular contributors to the show. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Episode Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:13 Meet at The George 03:16 London Roots and First Memories 05:30 Borough Market Food Buzz 09:28 Hidden Arches and Side Streets 12:19 South Bank Pubs 12:53 Waterloo Tap and South Bank Culture 18:03 Crossing Hungerford Bridge 18:59 Thames Tales and Skyline Views 24:31 Somerset House Winter Skate 25:54 Getting Around London 27:19 Tuk Tuks Versus Black Cabs 28:41 Theatreland Ticket Tips 30:10 Covent Garden Museums 30:50 Covent Garden Buzz & Coffee Stops 32:56 Pubs and Street Culture 34:36 Pastel de Nata Stop 35:11 Food and History Follows 37:20 Seven Dials Finale 39:12 Wrap Up – London Love 45:42 Post-Trip Chat with Damian 46:04 Living in Soho 47:56 Pubs and Soho Origins 49:35 London Facts and Figures 51:31 Hidden London Tips 53:08 Canals and East London Vibes 55:17 London Gripes and Love 56:41 Travel News – Border Biometrics 58:00 Travel Tech Updates 59:56 Wrap Up and Next Episode   Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey. Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable. From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/ Email: travelourworldpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. Apr 16

    Vietnam - Old, New & Everything in Between

    In this episode of Travel Our World, we explore Vietnam, a country of contrasts where ancient traditions and modern life exist side by side. Martin is joined by Damian, who leads the conversation as they unpack a journey taken in January 2026, travelling the length of the country from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, From dramatic landscapes and historic cities to unforgettable food and local experiences, Vietnam delivers something new at every turn. In this episode we explore: First impressions of Hanoi and northern VietnamHa Long Bay and life on the waterThe Reunification Express overnight trainHuế and Vietnam’s imperial historyHoi An, lanterns and coastal lifeHo Chi Minh City and its modern energyThe Mekong Delta and rural VietnamWhy Vietnam surprises so many travellersThis episode focuses on the human side of travel, the people, the pace and the constant shift between old and new. We also discuss the latest travel news and tech, and check in with regular contributors to the show. Lauren joins us with another Postcard from the Road, while Hannah shares the latest entry from The Mountain Diaries. Follow the podcast and come along for the journey. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey. Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable. From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/ Email: travelourworldpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. Apr 2

    Palermo – Sicilian City of Stories

    In this episode of Travel Our World, we head to Palermo, the vibrant and chaotic capital of Sicily. Recorded on location, Martin is joined by friend of the pod Owen as they explore a city full of history, culture and incredible street food, where every corner tells a story. From bustling markets and grand architecture to raw, authentic neighbourhoods, Palermo offers a completely different side of Italy. In this episode we explore: Palermo’s street food scene and local flavoursThe city’s rich and complex historyWalking through Palermo’s old townThe contrast between beauty and gritWhy Sicily feels so different from mainland Italy Back in the studio, Martin is joined by Damian, who brings a fresh perspective having not been on the trip but having been to another part of this beautiful island. We also discuss the latest travel news and tech, with a focus on Italy and European travel. Lauren joins us with another Postcard from the Road, while Hannah shares the latest entry from The Mountain Diaries. Follow the podcast and come along for the journey. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Episode Chapters00:00 Palermo Destination Focus (On Location with Owen) 36:01 Post-Trip Chat with Damian 40:39 Travel News & Tech 45:38 Postcards from the road 50:36 Wrap up and Next Episode Welcome to the Travel Our World Podcast, where every episode is a journey. Hosted by Martin McGrath and Damian Urwin, two long-time friends with over 50 years of combined experience in the travel industry, each episode dives into the people, places, and stories that make travel unforgettable. From mountain treks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets, Travel Our World shares real stories from those who live, work, and explore the world of travel. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Listen on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/ Email: travelourworldpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

See All (23)

Trailers

About

The Travel Our World Podcast explores the people, places, and stories that make travel truly unforgettable. Hosted by Martin and Damian, two long-time friends with a combined 50+ years of experience in the travel industry, the show takes listeners behind the scenes of the travel world, from mountain peaks to coastal escapes, ski chalets to city streets. Martin began his journey over 25 years ago, working across roles such as holiday rep, ski rep, chalet host, ski guide, hotel entertainer, and resort manager, bringing first-hand insight and storytelling flair to every episode. Damian has held multiple roles across the industry too and is a keen golfer with a love for discovering destinations both on and off the fairways. The two first met while working as contracting managers for a golf travel company, and their shared passion for people, travel, and a good laugh forms the heart of every episode. Season 2 introduces fresh voices and new features, including Mountain Diaries and Postcards from the Road, plus a Travel Tech & News segment highlighting what’s happening across the industry. Guest co-hosts like Chris and Owen join selected episodes, while Damian continues to shape the show as co-host and producer. Real stories. Real journeys. One trip at a time. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelourworldpodcast/ Email: travelourworldpodcast@gmail.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@travelourworldpodcast X: https://www.x.com/podcast_travel Bluesky: @travelourworld.bsky.social Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Martin McGrath & Damian Urwin
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Martin McGrath & Damian Urwin
  • Show Website
    Travel Our World Podcast

You Might Also Like