Published 28th Jun. 2021
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These days it seems like there's a podcast for everything, and anyone who's anyone seems to have launched their own podcast during lockdown. So to save you wading through the sea that is the podcast library, here are our top picks for the best travel podcasts for when you need a dose of escapism...
The Travel Diaries
This podcast takes a similar format to Desert Islands Discs (which, by the way, is a must-listen if you haven't already) but instead of songs, the guests discus their best travel experiences with the host, Holly Rubenstein. A recent guest was Yotam Ottolenghi, whose featured destinations included Jerusalem, Ubud, the Greek islands and Mexico. As expected, there is a large food focus when it comes to his travel choices, and as food and travel are two of our all-time favourite things, it doesn't get much better than this for us. Other big-names on the show include business magnate Sir Richard Branson, explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, magician Dynamo and actor Sir Michael Palin, among many more.
Women Who Travel
Created by Conde Nast Traveller editors Lale Arikoglu and Meredith Carey, this podcast discusses the realities of travelling as a woman in today's world. What started out as a Facebook group where women could share stories and advice and ask each other questions, quickly grew into a fortnightly podcast about the highs (and sometimes lows) of travelling as a woman. They have explored themes such as slow travel, road trips and travelling with children, and some previous guests include author Elizabeth Gilbert, tennis player Maria Sharapova, author and journalist Dolly Alderton and chef Samin Nosrat.
Armchair Explorer
The name of this podcast is entirely appropriate for 2020, as we have all had to reluctantly become armchair travellers during the pandemic. This is one of the best travel podcasts when it comes to escaping from the four walls of your home, as you listen to some fantastic explorers and adventurers recount tales of their past travels, from following in Shackleton's footsteps through Antarctica, to climbing Mount Everest, gorilla trekking in Rwanda and paddling down Alaska's Yukon River.
Stanfords Travel Podcast
As the name may suggest, this podcast is created by Stanfords, the world's largest map and travel bookshop which is based in London. Episodes include interviews and lectures from the best travel writers and adventurers around the world. Some famous guests include chefs Ainsley Harriott and Rick Stein, journalist Tim Marshall, and explorer Levison Wood. A few themed episodes that we particularly like include 'Around the World in 80 Trains' (we do love a train), 'The Joys of Travelling Slowly' (slow travel is something we will never stop raving about) and 'Travelling with Children' (because nothing beats a fun family getaway with little ones in tow).
Beach Too Sandy, Water Too Wet
If you're in need of a good laugh, this is by far one of the best travel podcasts to listen to. Beach Too Sandy, Water Too Wet seeks out some of the most ludicrous one-star hotel reviews written by people with some very strong opinions about their holidays. Better still, they do hilarious dramatic readings of them to really bring the reviews to life. This may not be the show to inspire wanderlust, but it certainly provides some much-needed light relief.
In Case You Missed It...
Our very own Tom Barber recently featured on the Better Known podcast, where he discussed six things he wishes were better known. We'll leave you to discover his full list, but topics discussed include Undertourism, Philantourism, Sabbaticals, and the wonderful Transylvania region in Romania.
Practical advice and inspiration for your next trip
There’s something undeniably magic about standing in the very place where your favourite story unfolded. While film buffs chase Hollywood backdrops, we’re championing a new kind of traveller: the fictioneer – book lovers looking to swap their reading chair for the real-life setting. Picture yourself sailing down the Nile, channelling Hercule Poirot as intrigue lingers around every bend, wandering Transylvanian streets in search of Count Dracula (garlic optional), or retracing the journey of The Odyssey in Greece.
23rd February 2026 - Travel Inspiration
Wondering what to see in San Francisco? Wonder no more. This is your invitation to discover the city beyond postcards and social media posts (though we’ll admit, it’s a very photogenic place). We’ll delve into its history, highlight some of the most walkable neighbourhoods and lead you to green spaces for a breath of fresh air. Explore the fantastic food scene and find the best spots to enjoy unforgettable views.
18th February 2026 - USA Travel Inspiration
Slow down, take in the spectacular scenery, and savour the unhurried pace of life around the Italian Lakes. The lakes were made by glaciers retreating at the end of the last ice age and have been a popular destination since the Romans were in power, so the region has a rich history. Add in the landscapes, nature and the charm of the towns and villages, and you’ve got a recipe for relaxation. Here, our Italy expert, Valeria, runs through what you can do at the lakes and how to plan your trip.
18th February 2026 - Italy Travel Inspiration
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