Checked in with Ryan and Jo

What if your next dream holiday is somewhere you've never even considered? In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we're joined by Stuart from Newmarket for a deep dive into the world of escorted touring, hidden travel gems and lesser-known destinations . We go beyond the traditional bucket-list destinations to discover the unusual tours, new itineraries and off-the-beaten-track experiences that Newmarket offers — from exploring Kyushu and Shikoku in Japan to discovering underrated regions across Europe. In this episode, we explore: 🌍 Why travellers are looking beyond traditional tourist destinations 🗺️ How Newmarket discovers new and unusual destinations 🇯🇵 Exploring Japan beyond Tokyo and Kyoto 🇪🇺 Europe's most underrated destinations and hidden gems ✨ New and exciting Newmarket escorted tours 🍷 Specialist holidays for food and wine lovers 🚂 Rail holidays and unique travel experiences 🐘 Wildlife, safari and nature tours 🏛️ History, art and architecture tours 🥾 Walking holidays and spectacular landscapes 🤫 Newmarket's "don't tell everyone" travel recommendations We also play our "I've Never Heard of That!" round, uncover some seriously underrated destinations and ask Stuart the ultimate question: what's the Newmarket tour that will make listeners say, "I didn't know they did that!"? Whether you're an experienced traveller looking for your next adventure , considering your first escorted tour , or simply searching for unique holiday ideas and lesser-known destinations , this episode is packed with travel inspiration. 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your travel podcast covering holiday ideas, destination guides, escorted tours, travel tips, hidden gems, cruise holidays, touring holidays and expert travel advice . Your next adventure might be somewhere you've never heard of.

It may be summer outside, but on this week's episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we're getting into the festive spirit and taking a magical deep dive into the best Christmas markets in Europe . From twinkling lights and festive food to mulled wine and fairytale city squares, we explore why European Christmas market breaks have become one of the most popular winter getaways—and why now is actually the perfect time to book . In this episode, we cover: 🎄 The best Christmas markets in Germany, Austria, Prague, Budapest, Strasbourg and Bruges ✈️ Why booking early gets you the best hotels and flights 🍷 The festive foods and drinks you simply have to try 🏨 Which Christmas market destinations are best for couples, families and first-time visitors ✨ Hidden gems and our favourite festive experiences 🎁 Tips for planning the perfect Christmas market city break Whether you're dreaming of wandering through the markets of Cologne , enjoying the magical atmosphere of Vienna , or sipping hot chocolate in Prague , this episode is packed with inspiration for your next winter escape. 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering destination guides, city breaks, family holidays, cruise holidays, travel tips and insider travel advice . If you're thinking about a European Christmas market break in 2025 or beyond, this episode is your ultimate guide to festive travel in Europe.

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we take a deep dive into one of Europe's most loved holiday destinations — Greece . From iconic islands and crystal-clear waters to incredible food, rich history and unforgettable experiences, Ryan and Jo explore everything you need to know when planning a Greek holiday. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly beach escape, a romantic island getaway, a luxury retreat or an adventure-filled trip, Greece has something for everyone — and we're here to help you find the perfect island. In this episode, we cover: - The best Greek islands, including Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Kos and Zante - Bucket-list destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos - Hidden gems including Kefalonia, Skiathos, Lefkada and Naxos - Greek food, local specialities and must-try dishes - Island hopping, boat trips and unforgettable experiences - The best islands for couples, families and first-time visitors Greek culture, history and why visitors return year after year We also share our favourite parts of Greece, insider travel tips and advice on choosing the right island for your next holiday. If you're searching for Greece holiday ideas, Greek island guides, family holidays in Greece, luxury Greek escapes, island-hopping itineraries, or the best Greek destinations to visit , this episode is packed with inspiration. Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering destination guides, travel tips, cruise holidays, touring adventures, family travel and expert holiday advice. Whether you're dreaming of Santorini sunsets, exploring the Old Town of Rhodes, relaxing on the beaches of Crete or discovering hidden Greek islands, this is the ultimate Greece travel podcast.

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we're diving into the world of late holiday deals and revealing how to secure the best last-minute travel bargains without compromising on quality. Ryan and Jo share their expert advice on where to find the best late deals , which destinations offer the greatest value, and why being flexible with your airport, travel dates, hotel choice and destination can unlock some incredible savings. In this episode, we cover: The best destinations for late deals, including Greece, Türkiye, Spain, Portugal, the Canary Islands, Cyprus, Egypt and more - Why flexibility is the secret to finding the biggest bargains - How hotels and airlines price late availability - Common myths about last-minute holidays - When long-haul destinations can offer surprisingly good value - The benefits of booking through a travel expert rather than searching endlessly online Whether you're looking for a cheap holiday, last-minute sunshine, an all-inclusive escape, family holiday deals, luxury travel offers or winter sun inspiration , this episode is packed with practical tips to help you travel smarter and save money. Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering travel tips, destination inspiration, holiday planning, cruise holidays, touring adventures and insider travel advice. If you're wondering whether to book now or wait for a late deal, this episode could save you hundreds on your next holiday.

This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo , Ryan is on location on Vancouver Island , bringing you a special destination deep dive from one of Canada's most spectacular regions. From rugged coastlines and ancient rainforests to charming towns, incredible wildlife, and unforgettable outdoor adventures, Ryan explores what makes Vancouver Island such a unique destination and why it deserves a place on every traveller's bucket list. In this episode, we cover: What makes Vancouver Island so special Wildlife experiences including bears, whales and eagles Stunning scenery, national parks and outdoor adventures Local food, drink and hidden gems The best way to explore the island Where to stay and what to expect Who Vancouver Island is perfect for Whether you're planning a Canada holiday, British Columbia road trip, wildlife adventure, or once-in-a-lifetime bucket list journey , this episode is packed with practical advice, destination inspiration and first-hand experiences. And a quick warning before you press play: we did consider turning it into a drinking game every time Ryan says "Vancouver Island" ... but we'd be worried about the consequences by the halfway point of the episode! 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering destination guides, travel tips, cruise holidays, touring adventures, family travel and insider knowledge from travel experts. If you're considering a trip to Vancouver Island, British Columbia, or Canada, this is one episode you won't want to miss.

Welcome back to Checked In with Ryan & Jo for the start of Season 2 ! After a busy month of travelling, we're back behind the microphones to catch up on everything we've been up to throughout May. From destination visits and hotel stays to travel highlights, funny moments, and the experiences that have inspired us for future adventures, this episode is your behind-the-scenes look at life as travel professionals on the move. We also introduce our brand-new podcast intro music and share some of the exciting plans we have for the new season ahead. In this episode: ✈️ Ryan & Jo's travel adventures from May 🌍 Destination highlights and hidden gems discovered along the way 🏨 Hotel visits and travel industry insights 😂 Funny travel moments and unexpected surprises 💡 Travel tips picked up during our recent trips 🎙️ What you can expect from Season 2 Whether you're looking for travel inspiration, holiday ideas, destination recommendations, travel tips, or behind-the-scenes insights from the travel industry , this episode is the perfect way to kick off the next chapter of the podcast. And don't miss our teaser for next week's episode, where Ryan will be reporting from the spectacular Vancouver Island, British Columbia , sharing everything from stunning scenery and wildlife encounters to why this incredible part of Canada deserves a place on your travel bucket list. 🎧 Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering destination guides, cruise holidays, touring adventures, family travel, travel news, insider tips, hotel reviews and real-world travel experiences. Subscribe now and join us for another season packed with travel stories, expert guests, holiday inspiration and plenty of laughs along the way. 🌍✈️☀️

In this special episode, join Jo with fellow retreat host Fiona as they take you behind the scenes of their first Awaken Retreat — a journey of connection, growth, and coming back to yourself. Hosted in beautiful Morocco , they reflect on the magic that unfolds when like-minded souls come together, from sunrise yoga sessions and soulful conversations to moments of stillness, laughter, and unexpected breakthroughs. Hear personal highlights, what surprised them most, and the deeper purpose behind creating these experiences . This episode is an honest, heartfelt look at what really happens on retreat — beyond the aesthetic — and how stepping away from everyday life can open the door to something far more meaningful. Whether you’ve joined us before, are thinking about booking your first retreat, or simply need a reminder to slow down and reconnect, this one’s for you. Expect: – Real reflections from the retreat – The impact of shared experiences & community – Why retreats can be truly transformative – A little inspiration to live life more fully Come and check in with us. This is last episode for Season 1, as Ryan and Jo are travelling a lot in May. Season 2 will be back in June, but until then, stay Checked In .

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we explore the growing world of rail holidays with special guest Paul from Fred Holidays , the experts in tailor-made rail journeys and touring holidays . From iconic European train travel to bucket-list scenic routes like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express and Rocky Mountaineer , we break down why rail travel holidays are becoming one of the most popular ways to see the world. We cover: What a rail holiday is and how it works The best scenic train journeys in Europe and worldwide Why rail travel is a stress-free alternative to flying Popular multi-destination rail itineraries Luxury rail experiences vs classic train travel Who rail holidays are perfect for — couples, families and first-time travellers Expert tips for planning a rail holiday in 2026 and beyond If you’re searching for European rail holidays, scenic train trips, luxury train journeys, Switzerland rail tours, Canada rail holidays or slow travel experiences , this episode is packed with expert advice and inspiration. 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering cruise holidays, escorted tours, destination guides, travel tips and insider travel knowledge .

This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we’re keeping it real… and slightly off script 👀 We’re diving into our personal holiday preferences — are we poolside loungers or out-all-day explorers? Plus, how our travel styles (and standards!) have evolved over the years. Along the way, Ryan shares some of his funniest — and slightly questionable — holiday stories … the kind that only ever seem to happen abroad, especially from his days as a holiday rep 🍹 Expect plenty of laughs , including a sneek peak into our breakfast treats we enjoy whilst recording our podcast! We also give you a teaser at what’s coming up over the next few weeks — Jo will be on location in Morocco , hosting a yoga retreat and Ryan will be in Canada exploring Vancouver Island . Plus our next guest joins us next week, Paul from Fred Holidays , talking all things rail travel ! So whether you’re planning your next trip or just daydreaming about one… come and get Checked In with us ✈️

New episode just landed 🎙️🇯🇵 This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we’re off to Japan … and its safe to say, Ryan’s already planning his snack stops while Jo’s chasing temples, sunsets, and all the slow moments in between ✨ We’re joined by the lovely Holly from Inside Japan (one of the UK’s leading Japan specialists), who brings all the insider knowledge you actually want — not just the guidebook stuff. Think where to go beyond the obvious, how to travel Japan without feeling overwhelmed, and those little cultural details that can make or break your trip (including why KFC is a 'thing' for Christmas dinner in Japan 😅). We chat cherry blossom season vs autumn colours , the magic of Kyoto , the buzz of Tokyo , and why Japan somehow manages to feel both wildly different and incredibly comforting at the same time. Holly also shares some of her favourite hidden gems and the kind of experiences that stay with you long after you’ve come home. Expect a bit of chaos, a lot of wanderlust, and Ryan asking the important questions… mainly about food 🍜 If Japan’s been sitting on your “one day” list, consider this your sign to start turning it into a “book it” moment ✈️ 🎧 Listen now & come travel with us... Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering cruise holidays, family travel, destination guides, hotel reviews, and expert holiday planning advice.

Lanzarote Travel Guide with a Toddler | Family Travel, Things to Do & Hotel Review – Sentido Aequora In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we’re recording on location from the beautiful island of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands . We share our real-time travel experience exploring the island with a toddler , along with practical tips for families considering a Lanzarote holiday . Ryan and Jo talk about what it’s like travelling with a toddler , how to plan a family-friendly holiday , and why Lanzarote is such a great destination for sunshine, beaches and relaxed family travel . We also dive into: Our stay at the Sentido Aequora Lanzarote Suites The best things to do in Lanzarote with young children Exploring Puerto del Carmen, volcanic landscapes and island highlights Why the Canary Islands are perfect for year-round family holidays Tips for travelling with toddlers, packing smart and keeping travel stress-free If you’re planning a Lanzarote holiday, Canary Islands family trip, or travelling with a toddler , this episode is packed with honest insight, travel advice and destination inspiration. 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering cruise holidays, family travel, destination guides, hotel reviews, and expert holiday planning advice . Perfect for listeners searching for Lanzarote travel tips, Canary Islands family holidays, toddler travel advice, Puerto del Carmen hotels, and family-friendly resorts in Lanzarote .

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we dive into two very different ways to see the world: classic escorted touring holidays and staying in one hotel and exploring at your own pace . Ryan and Jo break down the pros and cons of each style , share tips on how to choose the right approach for your personality and holiday goals, and discuss how to combine both for the ultimate travel experience. We cover: How classic tours let you see multiple destinations with everything organised for you How staying in one base allows you to explore at your own pace while enjoying a home-away-from-home hotel Top destinations for touring vs base-style travel Which travel styles suit families, couples, or first-time travellers Insider tips for planning stress-free holidays Whether you’re planning a Europe tour, Caribbean holiday, Mediterranean escape, or multi-destination trip , this episode gives you practical advice to make the most of your next adventure. 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering holiday planning, travel tips, destination inspiration, cruise advice, and insider knowledge . Perfect for anyone searching for touring holidays, guided trips, base-style travel, self-exploration trips, or family-friendly travel advice .#traveltips #travelagent #independenttravelagent #checkedinwithryanandjo #escortedtour

Solo Travel & Escorted Tours Explained | Just You Solo Holidays with Bev In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we dive into the world of solo travel and escorted tours with special guest Bev from Just You , the leading tour operator specialising in holidays exclusively for solo travellers . With solo travel holidays, singles group tours, and escorted touring experiences becoming more popular than ever, we explore how Just You tours make it easy, safe and social to travel the world independently without travelling alone. Ryan and Jo speak with Bev about how solo group travel works, why escorted tours for solo travellers are growing in popularity, and what guests can expect when booking a Just You holiday . In this episode we cover: How solo travel tours and escorted holidays for singles work Why Just You escorted tours are designed specifically for solo travellers The most popular solo travel destinations around the world What’s included in a Just You escorted holiday How solo travellers meet people and build friendships on tour Why escorted touring is one of the best ways to experience group travel for singles Whether you're considering your first solo holiday, escorted touring holiday, singles travel group, or a guided travel experience , this episode gives you insight into how solo group travel can open up the world. 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo is a weekly travel podcast covering cruise holidays, escorted tours, destination guides, travel tips, and holiday planning advice . Perfect for listeners searching for solo travel ideas, singles holidays, escorted tours for solo travellers, small group travel, and Just You travel experiences . #solo #touring #adventure #Justyou # travelagent #tour #solotour #solotouring #arrangemyescape www.arrangemyescape.com Call 01684 214848 Email malvern@arrangemyescape.com Or visit us in store at 16 Worcester Road, Great Malvern

Join Jo for this special solo episode, as she shares the highlights from an unforgettable journey through Northern Thailand with G Adventures and Gold Medal . From exploring the iconic Wat Pho temple and canals of Bangkok , to reflecting on history at the River Kwai and Death Railway , this trip blended culture, history and adventure in the most inspiring way. Including some Changs and toasties in Chiang Mai. From the sleeper train to Chiang Mai , where the sunrise over misty hills made for one of her most magical travel moments, to the hidden forest temple of Wat Pha Lat. Along the way, Jo shares insights into responsible travel , including a visit to the G for Good Yimsoo Café in Bangkok , and a fascinating conversation with G's Chief Experience Officer (Jo's guide) about how small group travel can create meaningful connections and positive impact for local communities. If you love immersive travel, cultural experiences and discovering destinations in a deeper, more responsible way, this episode will take you right into the heart of Northern Thailand . #GAdventures #Thailand #Touring #smallgroupadventure #adventuretravel #ChiangMai #Bangkok #Asia

In this special bonus episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , Ryan is joined by Jennifer, General Manager of arrangeMY Escape , to discuss the ongoing travel disruption in the Middle East and what it means for holidaymakers right now. With changing flight routes, airspace restrictions, airline schedule changes, and regional travel uncertainty , we break down what is happening, which destinations and airlines may be affected, and how travellers should respond. We cover: The current Middle East travel disruption explained Airspace closures and airline rerouting Flight delays, cancellations and schedule changes How tour operators and travel agents manage disruption Why booking with a travel company provides protection and support What affected customers should do next How arrangeMY Escape is proactively managing clients during uncertainty This episode is essential listening for anyone travelling to or through the Middle East, Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Asia connections, or long-haul destinations in the coming weeks. If you’re concerned about travel disruption, flight cancellations, rebooking policies, travel insurance, or ATOL protection , we explain what you need to know and how professional travel management makes a difference during uncertain times. 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo — providing real-time travel insight, expert advice, and behind-the-scenes industry knowledge when it matters most. Stay informed. Travel smart. And remember — you’re not navigating disruption alone.

This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we’re doing something a little different. With Jo checking in from Thailand, Ryan is joined by a very special guest — his mum, Lin — who recently experienced her first ever ocean cruise . And we’re breaking it all down: expectation vs reality . If you’ve ever wondered what a cruise holiday is really like for a first-time cruiser, this episode is packed with honest insights, surprises, myths, and genuine reactions. We cover: What first-time cruisers expect before sailing Common cruise myths and misconceptions What life onboard a cruise ship is actually like Food, entertainment, cabins and sea days The biggest surprises on a first cruise Who cruising is really suited for Whether Lin would book another cruise If you’re researching a first-time cruise, family cruise holiday, Caribbean cruise, Mediterranean cruise, or 2026 cruise planning , this episode gives you a real-world, relatable perspective from someone who’s just done it for the first time. 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering cruise tips, destination advice, holiday planning guidance and insider travel knowledge. Thinking about booking your first cruise? This episode might answer the questions you didn’t even know you had.

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we wrap up our cruising series with the ultimate guide to ocean cruising . From sun-soaked Caribbean cruises to culture-packed Mediterranean itineraries , scenic Alaska sailings , and breathtaking Norwegian Fjords , we break down everything you need to know about modern ocean cruises and why they remain one of the most popular ways to travel. We cover: What ocean cruising is really like Life onboard today’s cruise ships Family-friendly vs adults-only cruise options Luxury cruise lines vs mainstream cruise ships Sea days, entertainment, dining and onboard experiences Why cruising offers incredible all-in-one holiday value Who ocean cruising is perfect for — couples, families, groups and first-time cruisers If you’re considering a 2026 cruise holiday, first-time cruise, family cruise, all-inclusive cruise experience, or luxury ocean cruise , this episode gives you practical advice, insider insight and destination inspiration. 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering cruises, destinations, expert travel tips and behind-the-scenes industry knowledge. Plus — we tease next week’s special episode where Jo checks in from Thailand and Ryan is joined by Jennifer, GM of arrangeMY Escape, for an insider look at the travel industry. If ocean cruising is on your radar, this is the episode to listen to.

This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we’re diving into the extraordinary world of expedition cruising — and we’re joined by special guest Kate from AE Expeditions , one of the leaders in small-ship polar and adventure cruises. If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Antarctica, the Arctic, Greenland, the Scottish Isles, Costa Rica, or other remote bucket-list destinations , this episode is your ultimate guide to understanding what expedition cruising is really like. We cover: What makes expedition cruises different from traditional ocean cruises Why small-ship cruising offers deeper destination immersion What a typical day looks like on an Antarctica expedition Wildlife encounters including penguins, polar bears and whales The difference between Arctic vs Antarctica cruises Who expedition cruising is perfect for What life is really like onboard AE Expeditions’ ships Sustainability, responsible tourism, and conservation at sea Whether you're researching a luxury expedition cruise, Antarctica cruise 2026, Arctic small-ship adventure, or bucket-list polar holiday , this episode gives you insider insight straight from one of the industry experts. Perfect for: Adventure travellers Luxury cruise seekers Solo travellers Couples planning milestone trips Anyone considering their first expedition cruise 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering cruise advice, destination inspiration, travel tips, industry insights, and real-world holiday planning. If you’re curious about expedition cruising, polar cruises, small-ship exploration, sustainable cruise travel, or once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences , this episode is not to be missed. For more information on Expedition Cruises get in touch with us. Call - 01684 214848 Email malvern@arrangemyescape.com or visit us in store at 16 Worcester Road, Great Malvern

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we dive into everything you need to know about river cruising — one of the fastest-growing travel trends for 2026 and beyond. We explore the most popular river cruise destinations around the world , including the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Douro, Rhône, Nile, Mekong, Yangtze and Amazon , and explain what makes each route unique. From sailing through European capitals and vineyard-covered valleys to bucket-list journeys through Egypt and Southeast Asia, this is your ultimate guide to choosing the right river cruise. We also break down leading river cruise lines including Riviera Travel, Viking River Cruises, AmaWaterways and Uniworld , comparing styles from premium to ultra-luxury. If you’re considering a European river cruise, Nile cruise, Mekong cruise, all-inclusive river holiday, or luxury small-ship cruising experience , this episode covers who river cruising is best for, what’s included, and why it’s such a stress-free way to travel. Perfect for: First-time cruisers Couples and solo travellers Luxury travellers Food and wine lovers Cultural travel enthusiasts 2026 cruise planners 🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo — your weekly travel podcast for destination advice, cruise guides, holiday planning tips, and insider travel knowledge.

Thinking about a cruise but not sure where to start? In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we break down the three main types of cruising — ocean cruises, river cruises, and expedition cruises — and explain what makes each one unique. From lively ocean ships packed with entertainment, to relaxed river cruises sailing through the heart of Europe, and adventure-led expedition cruises to some of the world’s most remote destinations, we cover who each style is best for and why cruising could be your next perfect holiday. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or looking to try something new, this episode is your ultimate guide to choosing the right cruise experience. ✨ Plus, we tease upcoming episodes where we’ll dive deeper into each cruise style.