PODCAST · society
the getAwayZ Podcast
by the getAwayZ
Real travel stories and practical guides for exploring Europe the way people actually travel.Welcome to the getAwayZ. We’re Erin and Lisa, friends and roommates who moved from the U.S. to Europe in 2017. Since then, we’ve spent years traveling across the continent, mostly by car, figuring out what’s worth your time and what isn’t.Sometimes that travel includes Erin’s teenage son and Lisa’s dog, Rex. Sometimes it doesn’t. Either way, we talk honestly about where to stay, what to skip, what to eat and drink, when to go and what you need to plan ahead for.Whether you’re planning a trip to Europe or thinking about living abroad, the getAwayZ shares realistic, practical advice based on real experience.
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Rotterdam Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Eat & See in Rotterdam
Send us Fan MailRotterdam is not the Netherlands most people expect, and that’s exactly why we love it.After living in Rotterdam for four years, we have a LOT to say about this city. In this episode of The Getawayz, we’re sharing the best things to do in Rotterdam, from the Cube Houses, Markthal and Erasmus Bridge to the museums, food halls and some of our favorite ways to get out on the water.We’re also talking about the WWII bombing that changed Rotterdam forever, the city’s incredible modern architecture, the Port of Rotterdam and the small markers in the streets that trace the boundary of the devastating 1940 fire.Plus: the Water Taxi, Pancake Boat, our very memorable Duck Boat experience, Fenix Museum of Migration, Hotel New York, Station Bergweg and why we think you should make time for Kinderdijk.If you’re planning a trip to Rotterdam, Netherlands, this is the episode to start with.🎙️ Rotterdam Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Eat & See in RotterdamListen to The Getawayz wherever you get your podcasts. Link in bio.#Rotterdam #RotterdamNetherlands #VisitRotterdam #RotterdamTravel #RotterdamTravelGuide #ThingsToDoInRotterdam #NetherlandsTravel #VisitNetherlands #HollandTravel #EuropeTravel #EuropeTravelTips #TravelPodcast #TheGetawayzSupport the show
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Würzburg, Bamberg & Nuremberg: Bavaria Beyond Munich and Oktoberfest
Send us Fan MailWe’ve covered Munich and Oktoberfest before, but this episode is about another side of Bavaria: Franconia. We talk Würzburg, a Baroque wine town where we stumbled into a wine festival at the Würzburg Residence, and Bamberg, a UNESCO-listed old town known for its smoked Rauchbier at Schlenkerla and the hike up to Altenburg Castle. Plus, we talk Nuremberg, our December Bavaria plans and what it’s like traveling through Germany with a teenager and a dog. Full written guides at thegetawayz.com.Support the show
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Graz, Austria: Underground Slides and a Friendly Alien in a City Most Tourists Skip
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we go to the second biggest city in Austria that most tourists skip on the way to Vienna or Salzburg. We stopped in Graz on our road trip to Croatia and liked it so much we came back a week later with Dylan.We cover the Schlossberg clock tower with its backwards hands, the largest underground slide in Europe, a church with Hitler and Mussolini in the stained glass, a modern art museum that looks like a giant blue blob and a gondola ride up Schockl mountain for Alps views that looked straight out of The Sound of Music. We also talk about the food, including the Styrian pumpkin seed oil we are now putting on everything at home, and the hotel staff who planned our entire visit after our Airbnb turned out to be 37 degrees inside.Graz is walkable, dog friendly and easy to do in one or two nights. If you are driving through Austria or looking for somewhere beyond the usual stops, this one is for you.For more, visit www.thegetawayz.comSupport the show
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Summer Rewind: Corsica
Send us Fan MailSUMMER REWIND: We are wrapping up our summer rewind series with Corsica. Wild beaches, canyoning, natural pools you have to hike to and an island that feels more rugged than anywhere else in the Mediterranean. We talk about how to get there, what surprised us and why Corsica does not get nearly enough attention.For more, visit www.thegetawayz.comSupport the show
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Summer Rewind: Croatia Beaches
Send us Fan MailSUMMER REWIND: This week we are replaying our Croatia beach guide while we are actually in Croatia right now. We cover the water (it really is that clear), the rocky shores, where to swim and the beaches that are worth the effort to find. If you are planning a Croatia trip this summer, this is the episode to listen to before you pack.For more, visit www.thegetawayz.comSupport the show
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Summer Rewind: Puglia
Send us Fan MailSUMMER REWIND: This week it is Puglia. We have spent multiple summers in this region and it is one of our favorite places in all of Italy. We talk about the beaches, the towns, the burrata situation and why Puglia keeps pulling us back. If you listened to our recent Matera episode, Puglia is right next door and the two pair perfectly.For more, visit www.thegetawayz.comSupport the show
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Summer Rewind: Sardinia
Send us Fan MailSUMMER REWIND: This week we are bringing back our Sardinia episode. We have been three times and each trip taught us something different about the island. We talk about the beaches (some of the best in Europe, honestly), how to get around, where to stay and what we would do differently if we were going for the first time. Three trips worth of honest advice in one episode.For more, visit www.thegetawayz.comSupport the show
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Summer Rewind: Sicily: Best Towns, Beaches & Food
Send us Fan MailSUMMER REWIND: We are replaying some of our favorite summer episodes while we are on the road. This week it is Sicily. We cover the best towns for a summer trip, the beaches worth finding, the street food that will ruin you for any other Italian food and why Sicily deserves way more than a day trip from the mainland. If you are planning a trip to southern Italy this summer, start here.For more, visit www.thegetawayz.comSupport the show
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Cologne, Germany: What to See, Eat and Drink (And Why It's Worth More Than a Day)
Send us Fan MailWe have been to Cologne twice now and somehow the cathedral still surprises us every time. In this episode we cover everything you need to know about one of Germany's most underrated cities: the Kölner Dom and the remarkable story of how it survived World War II, the Kölsch beer culture that only exists here and the very specific way you have to order it, Old Town, the Rhine Promenade, the chocolate museum on its own little island and the ancient city gate with three-euro spritzes outside it. We also get into the origin of cologne the fragrance (an Italian perfumer in the 1700s, not what you would expect) and the Carnival season that officially begins every year at exactly 11:11 AM on November 11. Plus a quick detour to Phantasialand, the amusement park twenty minutes away that Dylan insists is the best in Europe. He is not wrong.Support the show
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Matera, Italy: Cave Hotels, Killer Pasta and 9,000 Years of History
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we go to one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on earth and one of our favorite spots in all of Italy. Matera is built into limestone caves that people have lived in for at least 9,000 years, it's been called the second Jerusalem and it went from being the shame of Italy to a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We talk about the history of the forced evacuation in 1952, the cave churches with medieval frescoes, walking on top of someone else's roof without realizing it, the Salvador Dali exhibition that made Dylan fall in love with surrealism and the James Bond story that involved thousands of gallons of Coca-Cola on the streets.We also get into the food, including the bread stamps families used at communal ovens, cheese aged in caves, white truffles that nobody knows about and the spaghetti all'assassina that nearly killed us at a cave restaurant. We've been twice, stayed in cave Airbnbs both times and brought Cash the first trip and Rex the second. Matera is not easy to get to but it is absolutely worth it, especially if you're already in Puglia. We share how to plan it, when to go and why you need tennis shoes.For more, visit www.thegetawayz.comSupport the show
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Turin, Italy: The Most Underrated City in Italy and Why We Still Call It Home
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we go back to the city we called home for over five years, Turin. We make the case for why we think it's the most underrated city in Italy and walk you through everything from the French inspired piazzas to the second largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in the world outside of Cairo. We talk about the Shroud of Turin, the Egyptian Museum, the Mole Antonelliana with its incredible cinema museum and the Willy Wonka style elevator that takes you to one of the best views of the city, Palazzo Reale, Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo. Then we get into the food and drink that makes Piemonte so special, including Bicerin (the layered chocolate, espresso and cream coffee you can really only get in Torino), the Martini & Rossi factory tour, Caffè Al Bicerin, Baratti & Milano, the Nutella origin story, gianduja, agnolotti, bagna càuda and a proper aperitivo at Piazza Vittorio Veneto.We also share our favorite day trips out of Turin, including the Langhe wine region with Barolo and Alba, Sacra di San Michele, Superga, Sestriere for skiing and the easy drives over to Chamonix, Zermatt and Courmayeur. Plus we get into the porticos, the graffiti culture, why we think Torino is one of the best home bases in Europe and one of our all time favorite restaurants, La Medusa. If you're planning a trip to northern Italy or looking for a livable Italian city without the tourist crush, this is the episode for you.For more, visit www.thegetawayz.comSupport the show
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Tuscany Travel Guide Part 2: Pisa, Lucca and Tuscany's Best Beaches and Hot Springs
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we continue our two-part Tuscany series by heading beyond the famous hill towns. We talk about Lucca, Pistoia, Pisa, Viareggio, Greve in Chianti and Pienza, along with the beaches, festivals and food that made us keep going back while we lived in Italy. From Lucca Comics and the giant Carnevale floats in Viareggio to the eight course meat feast at Dario Cecchini and the natural hot springs of Saturnia, this episode is full of the side of Tuscany most people miss on the way to Florence and Siena.We also get into the terme, the natural hot springs Tuscans visit for everything from a weekend soak to a real health ritual, plus where to find the best wine tastings and beach towns in the region. If you're planning a Tuscany road trip or trying to figure out where to go beyond Florence, Siena and the classic hill towns, this is the episode for you.Support the show
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Tuscany Travel Guide Part 1: Siena, Montepulciano and Tuscany’s Best Hill Towns
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we start our two-part Tuscany series by exploring some of the region’s most unforgettable hill towns and wine villages. We talk about Cortona, Montepulciano, Montalcino, San Gimignano, Volterra and Siena, along with the festivals, food and moments that made each place stand out to us. From Christmas markets inside castles to medieval festivals, underground wine caves and pici pasta in Siena, this episode is packed with the kinds of experiences that make Tuscany feel completely different from the big cities.We also share practical tips about driving in Tuscany, where you actually need a car, what towns are best for day trips and which places are worth slowing down for. If you’re planning a Tuscany road trip or dreaming about spending time in the Italian countryside, this is the episode for you. Support the show
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Paris in 3 Days: What to Do, Where to Go and How to Plan Your First Trip
Send us Fan MailParis is one of those cities everyone has an opinion about, which is exactly why we put off recording this episode for so long.In this episode, we’re breaking down how we would plan a first trip to Paris if you have three or four days. This is the actual itinerary Lisa gives people when they ask what to do, based on our own trips, living there for six months and all the things we always go back to.We talk about starting with a walking tour or a slightly ridiculous vintage Rolls-Royce tour, having a low-key picnic in Luxembourg Gardens, taking a Seine cruise at sunset and building in time for Saint-Chapelle, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur and a few classic Paris food moments.We also get into what is worth booking ahead, where Paris feels overwhelming, why you need to watch for pickpockets and why sitting at a café doing absolutely nothing is still one of the best things to do in the city.In this episode we cover:• How to plan 3 days in Paris • The best first-day activities in Paris • Luxembourg Gardens, Saint-Chapelle and the Seine • When to visit the Eiffel Tower • Why Montmartre is still worth it • Paris with kids and teens • Pickpocket tips and practical travel advice • A few favorite food stops, including La Dôme, La Rotonde, Homer and street crêpesFor more Paris travel guides, visit The Getawayz.Support the show
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Where to Stay in Europe: Hotels vs Airbnbs, Best Areas and What Actually Works
Send us Fan MailTrying to figure out where to stay in Europe and going back and forth between a hotel and an Airbnb? Same. We do this every single trip.In this episode we talk through how we actually decide. Not the perfect version, the real version. When we book hotels, when we go with Airbnbs and the times we’ve gotten it completely wrong.We get into how to choose the right area first because that matters way more than the place itself. Using real examples from Paris, Amsterdam, Florence and Copenhagen, we break down what actually works and what doesn’t.We also cover: when hotels are the better move when Airbnbs make more sense how people end up booking in the wrong location why cheaper is not always better This is part planning, part rambling and a lot of what we’ve learned from traveling across Europe with a teen and a dog.We break this down city by city on our site with full guides on where to stay so you can actually book the right area the first time.If you’re planning a Europe trip and want to get your stay right the first time this will help.Support the show
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Elba Island Italy: The Tuscan Beach Escape Tourists Miss
Send us Fan MailAfter a week in Puglia and another on the Amalfi Coast, we headed to Elba Island and it ended up being one of the most unexpected highlights of the trip.In this episode, we’re sharing what it’s really like to visit Elba, from beach hopping and hiking to the things no one warns you about, like jellyfish stings and the tiny fish that bite your feet. We stayed in Rio nell'Elba, a quieter part of the island that gave us a more local feel and easy access to some of our favorite spots.We break down the beaches you should actually go to, including Spiaggia di Cavoli and Spiaggia di Polombaia, what to expect when you get there, and why Elba feels completely different from places like Amalfi. We also talk about visiting Napoleon's Residence, where Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled, plus some of our favorite moments from the trip, including octopus sightings, charcoal ice cream, and the spiciest pizza we’ve had in Italy.If you’re looking for a beach destination in Italy that is less crowded, more relaxed, and still full of incredible scenery, Elba might be exactly what you’re looking for.We’ll also be sharing a full Elba beach guide on the site this week.Support the show
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Croatia's National Parks: Krka vs Plitvice Lakes (Which One Is Right for You?)
Send us Fan MailIf you're planning a trip to Croatia and wondering whether to visit Krka National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park, this episode is for you. We've been to both and they are not the same experience at all.Krka is an hour from Split, manageable in half a day and a genuinely beautiful introduction to Croatia's waterfall parks. Plitvice is Croatia's oldest national park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most extraordinary places either of us has ever been. Sixteen terraced lakes connected by waterfalls, turquoise water so vivid it looks unreal and wooden boardwalks that put you right in the middle of it.We talk through what each park is actually like, how long to spend there, the best time to visit and which one to do first if you're doing both. We also cover what it's like to visit with a dog and the Rex swimming incident at Krka.Find full show notes and photos at thegetawayz.com.Support the show
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Lavender Season in Provence: What You Need to Know
Send us Fan MailIf you've ever seen a photo of Provence in June and thought you needed to go there immediately, same. This week we're talking all things Provence during lavender season, which is hands-down one of the most beautiful places either of us has ever been. Lovely with a capital L.We cover the lavender fields (yes, you can actually walk into them, unlike the tulips), the farm stands set up along the roads where you can stock up on honey candies, soap and candles and basically anything lavender can be put in. We also get into the stunning Gorges du Verdon and Lac de Sainte-Croix, the tiny ridiculously French village we stayed in and the Airbnb situation that earned us our one and only bad review. Spoiler: they wanted us to do the laundry. European laundry. With no dryer. Rebuttal filed.Plus timing tips for catching peak bloom and what to know before you go.Support the show
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Dubrovnik Travel Guide for Beaches Walls and Islands
Send us Fan MailDubrovnik is stunning, but it’s not the effortless postcard people imagine. We’re fresh off a rough stretch of sickness and finally back behind the mic to unpack what Dubrovnik, Croatia actually feels like on the ground: steep cliffside neighborhoods, relentless summer heat, and the kind of views that make you forget your legs are shaking from the stairs.We walk through our full travel logistics, from taking the Ancona to Split ferry during the COVID era to sitting for hours in blazing heat at immigration, then driving south through the strange little Bosnia and Herzegovina corridor that splits the Croatian coast. Once we land in Dubrovnik, we get specific about where to stay near Old Town, how to navigate the elevation, and why walking can be exhausting but also the best way to see the city.Then we hit the Dubrovnik essentials: an Old Town tour that pairs fairytale architecture with visible war scars, the Dubrovnik city walls walk at the crack of dawn, and how cruise ship crowds can flip the experience from calm to chaotic. We also share our favorite escapes, including a Lokrum Island day trip, a private boat day with swim stops and lunch on Lopud, and beach notes from rocky shores to the dramatic cliff-access Pasjaca Beach. Along the way: seafood, ice cream, and the Bosnian favorite Taj Mahal, plus a haunted night tour that ended up being one of our most memorable nights.If you’re building a Croatia itinerary or searching for a practical Dubrovnik travel guide, hit play, then subscribe, share with a friend planning Europe, and leave a review so more travelers can find us. What would you prioritize in Dubrovnik: walls, islands, or beaches?Support the show
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Driving in Europe: What to Know Before Renting a Car
Send us Fan MailPlanning to rent a car during your trip to Europe? Driving can be one of the best ways to explore the continent, especially if you want to visit smaller towns, scenic coastal roads, and countryside regions that are harder to reach by train.In this episode we share practical tips from driving across Europe in countries including Italy, France, Germany, Croatia, Slovenia, Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain, the Czech Republic, and the United Kingdom.We talk about the things travelers often don’t expect, including international driver permits, highway tolls and vignettes, speed cameras, alcohol limits, roundabouts, parking rules, and differences between European and North American driving.If you’re planning a European road trip or renting a car during your trip, this episode will help you feel more confident before getting behind the wheel.For more destination guides and travel tips across Europe, visit TheGetawayz.com.Support the show
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Luxembourg City Travel Guide: Casemates, Castles and Europe's Most Underrated Capital
Send us Fan MailWe've been to Luxembourg City four times and it started as a total accident. In this episode, we explore the UNESCO-listed upper and lower city, walk the underground Casemates built in the 1600s, stop at the famous Chocolate House right across from the Grand Ducal Palace and share one of our all-time favorite hikes in Little Switzerland. We also talk about what Luxembourg does better than anywhere else in Europe (free, genuinely excellent public transit), what's still on our bucket list for next time and why this overlooked little country just keeps pulling us back. Support the show
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Normandy Travel Guide: D-Day Beaches, Omaha, Utah, Pointe du Hoc & Mont Saint-Michel
Send us Fan MailThis is Part 2 of our two-part series. After covering Giverny, Honfleur, Étretat and Rouen in Part 1, we head to the D-Day landing sites. The beaches, the history, and the places that make this region unlike anywhere else in France.In this episode, we walk through Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery, Utah Beach and its museums, the craters at Pointe du Hoc, the airborne town of Sainte-Mère-Église with its famous church and we end on a high note at Mont Saint-Michel.We share what each site is actually like to visit, what to expect, which museums are worth your time, tips for visiting with kids, and how to fit all of this into 2–3 days, whether you're adding it onto a Paris trip or making a dedicated Normandy getaway. We also have a special guest this week: Jonathan, who visited the beaches with Lisa and shares his experience seeing it all for the first time.Whether you're a history lover, a first-time visitor, or planning a family trip to France, the D-Day beaches are an experience that stays with you long after you leave.Support the show
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Zermatt, Switzerland: Glacier Paradise, Winter Storms and Life in a Car-Free Alpine Village
Send us Fan MailWe have been to Zermatt twice and both trips were completely different.The first time we drove through a blizzard after a delayed flight into Milan, arrived at 3am, and learned quickly that cars are not allowed in Zermatt. The Matterhorn barely showed itself and wind shut down part of Glacier Paradise.The second trip was calmer. Clearer views, hiking along the river, Dylan doing the Forest Fun Park ropes course, fondue, hay soup and Matterhorn-shaped chocolate.In this episode we talk about what it is really like to visit Zermatt, how the car-free system works, whether Glacier Paradise is worth it and what can go wrong at nearly 4,000 meters.Support the show
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Why We Love Milan
Send us Fan MailMilan is a city we’ve spent real time in. Living nearby meant it was never just a stop on a trip and that changes how you experience it.In this episode, we talk about what it’s like spending time in Milan. The neighborhoods we kept going back to. The food. The design. How the city works day to day and why it feels different from other places in Italy. We also talk about why Milan makes sense when you give it time instead of rushing through it.This is not a highlights episode or a checklist. It’s a conversation about Milan as a place to spend time, not just pass through.Music: Seize the Day by Andrey Rossi via UppbeatLicense code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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European Trivia Showdown: Food Edition
Send us Fan MailErin hosts a fast paced European food trivia showdown with Lisa, Dylan and Meghan, and it got competitive fast. From iconic dishes to regional specialties and a few trick questions, this episode puts European food knowledge to the test.We cover classic foods people think they know, regional details that spark debate, and questions guaranteed to make you second guess yourself. Play along and see how you stack up before the answers are locked in.A fun break from traditional travel episodes and perfect for anyone who loves European food, travel trivia, or yelling answers at their phone.Support the show
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Annecy, Aix-les-Bains & Grenoble Travel Guide | Rhône-Alps Part 2
Send us Fan MailIn Part 2 of our Rhône-Alps series, we continue beyond Chamonix and talk about spending time in Annecy, Aix-les-Bains, Chambéry and Grenoble.We talk about what Annecy feels like once you’re there, how crowded it can get depending on timing and why it stands out compared to other lake towns we’ve visited. We also talk about Aix-les-Bains and Chambéry as quieter stops, how they felt in comparison and why they worked well without needing much planning.We end with Grenoble and how different it feels from the alpine towns, shaped by its setting and the way the city interacts with the mountains around it.usic: Seize the Day by Andrey Rossi via UppbeatLicense code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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Trailer | the getAwayZ Podcast
Send us Fan MailThe Getawayz is a travel podcast about exploring Europe the way people actually do.We moved from Los Angeles to Europe in 2017 and have spent years traveling by car, often with a teenager and a dog. We talk honestly about where to stay, what to skip, what’s worth planning around and what we learned the hard way.If you’re planning a trip to Europe or thinking about living abroad, start here.Support the show
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Chamonix Travel Guide | Rhône-Alpes Part 1
Send us Fan MailIn Part 1 of our Rhône-Alpes series, we’re starting in Chamonix, one of the most iconic mountain towns in the French Alps.We talk about what Chamonix is really like beyond the photos, how the town feels when you’re walking through it and why it stands out compared to other mountain destinations we’ve visited. We cover the Mer du Glace glacier experience, the ice cave, hiking to Cascade du Dard, where we ate and where we stayed.This episode is about slowing down, choosing the right experiences and letting a place like Chamonix set the pace instead of trying to do everything.Next week in Part 2, we continue through the Rhône-Alpes with stops in Annecy, Aix-les-Bains and Chambéry.Music: Seize the Day by Andrey Rossi via Uppbeat License code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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New Year’s in Gothenburg
Send us Fan MailSpending New Year’s in Sweden, in the middle of winter.We spent New Year’s in Gothenburg with fireworks everywhere, busy streets and just enough going on without overplanning the days. Winter was fully in place and the city felt active without being overwhelming.In this episode, we talk about how we spent New Year’s in Gothenburg, from walking the city and spending time in Haga to visiting the World of Volvo and Universeum. We share where we ate, where we stayed and how the trip naturally stayed close to our neighborhood.We also talk about New Year’s Eve in the city, from pre dinner drinks to a relaxed night at the apartment while fireworks lit up the sky outside. This episode is about winter travel in Sweden, choosing not to pack in too much and why Gothenburg worked so well for this time of year.Music: Seize the Day by Andrey Rossi via Uppbeat License code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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New Year’s Traditions in Europe: Superstitions, Food and Traditions
Send us Fan MailEurope celebrates New Year’s in ways that are fun, strange, symbolic and older than most people realize. In this episode, we break down the traditions and superstitions that show up across countries like Spain, Italy, Austria, Germany, Denmark, Croatia, France, the Netherlands, the UK, Ireland and Sweden. Some places eat twelve grapes at midnight, some wear red underwear for luck, some jump off chairs and Austria has full monster parades designed to chase away bad spirits.We also look at the food rituals that shape New Year’s across Europe, including lentils, pork, oliebollen, kransekage, marzipan pigs and the rules about what you should and should not eat on January 1. And we talk about why so many countries call New Year’s Eve “Sylvester” and where that name actually comes from.If you have ever wondered how the holiday looks outside the United States or want to learn the meaning behind Europe’s oldest New Year’s traditions, this episode has everything. It is a mix of history, travel, folklore and real traditions that people still follow today.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-dayLicense code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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Americans Living in Europe: Expectations vs Reality
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we talk about the expectations we all had before living in Europe and how those ideas compare to real life once you arrive. We cover safety, taxes, food and the small cultural shifts that stand out the most. Some things feel easier than expected and others take a little more adjusting, especially during the first year.Meghan joins the conversation as someone who is still settling into European life, while we share what felt different after living here for years. It is a relaxed and honest look at the things people imagine about Europe compared to what you actually experience once you spend real time here. If you are curious about how Europe feels as more than a vacation, this episode gives you a clear, friendly look at the reality.Music: Seize the Day by Andrey Rossi via Uppbeat License code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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European Christmas Traditions and the Stories Behind Them
Send us Fan MailEurope has some of the oldest Christmas traditions in the world. In this episode we look at where many of them began. We talk about Advent calendars in Germany, the first Christmas markets, and why most of Europe celebrates on Christmas Eve. We also get into regional customs in France, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Iceland and the Czech Republic. Some traditions are sweet and familiar, others are unusual and only found in certain corners of the continent. This is a simple guide to the history, food and folklore that shape Christmas in Europe today.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-dayLicense code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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Vienna Travel Guide: Winter Highlights, Palaces, Music and Christmas Markets
Send us Fan MailExperience Vienna in winter through our real stories of palaces, music, good food and holiday markets. We talk about the stops that stood out for us, from interactive museums to classical concerts in golden halls. We share what we ate, what we skipped, and what we would do on a return visit. If you’re planning a trip to Vienna with a teen, a dog, or just a love for culture and desserts, this episode walks you through what to see and how to make the most of a winter visit.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/sei...License code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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European Trivia Showdown: How Well Do We Know Europe?
Send us Fan MailThis week we switched things up with a European trivia episode. Lisa stepped into quizmaster mode while Erin competed against Meghan and Dylan in a mix of geography, culture and travel questions across Europe. There were confident answers, a few total guesses, and some surprising wins. Play along, see how many you get right, and decide who really knows Europe best.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/sei...License code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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Rome Travel Stories: Why We Keep Returning to the Eternal City
Send us Fan MailThey say all roads lead to Rome, and somehow, ours always do. In this episode, we’re sharing the Rome we’ve come to know over multiple trips: the neighborhoods we love, the food we keep craving and the tiny details that make this city unforgettable.From quiet mornings in Monti to late walks through Trastevere, we talk about finding the best supplì al telefono, the surprise appearance by the we Pope at the Vatican and what makes every return to Rome feel brand new.If you’re planning your first visit or heading back for more, this episode covers where to stay, what to eat, and how to experience the city beyond the postcards.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/sei...License code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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Teen Life in Europe: Dylan on School, Friends, Travel and Growing Up Abroad (Half His Life)
Send us Fan MailHalf his life in Europe. In this episode Dylan answers questions about moving from the U.S., international school, travel, friends, culture shocks, favorite cities and what he’d tell other teens who might move abroad. Real talk on expat life, studying, costs, daily routines, and what still feels weird. If you’re raising a teen in Europe or planning the jump, this is the episode to play in the car.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-dayLicense code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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27
Monaco Travel Guide: What to See, Eat and Do in a Day
Send us Fan MailFrom luxury yachts to hidden gardens, Monaco is more than just glitz and casinos. In this episode of The Getawayz, we share what it’s really like to visit the world’s second-smallest country, where you can walk the whole place in a day, explore royal history, and still find quiet corners overlooking the sea.Support the show
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26
Bruges and Ghent: How to Explore Belgium’s Best Canal Cities
Send us Fan MailBruges and Ghent are two of Belgium’s most unforgettable cities and we’ve been back many times, and yet still can't wit to return. In this episode, we talk about the cobblestone streets, canal walks, Christmas markets and the famous Ghent bar where you have to trade a shoe for your beer. From Airbnb stays in Bruges to the NH Hotel in Ghent, we share what to see, eat and experience in both cities and why you should plan to visit them together.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-dayLicense code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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25
Versailles Travel Guide: What to See, Eat and Do Near the Palace
Send us Fan MailWe spent a few days in Versailles exploring the palace and the gardens at an easy pace. In this episode we talk about biking around the grounds, renting a golf cart, and touring the château. From brunch at Hôtel Le Louis to sushi delivery and a picnic by Petit Trianon, we share what it’s like to stay nearby and see more than just the palace.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-dayLicense code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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24
Slovenia Travel Guide: Dragon Eggs, Castles and the Best Sausage Ever
Send us Fan MailWe’ve been to Slovenia twice and each visit just gets better. In this episode we share our favorite finds from the best sausage we’ve ever eaten to the story behind Ljubljana’s dragons and the mysterious dragon eggs. Join us as we talk lakes, castles, caves and why Slovenia deserves a spot on every European road trip.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-dayLicense code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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23
Haunted Otranto: Our Stay in Italy’s Most Unsettling Airbnb
Send us Fan MailWe thought we were just booking a simple Airbnb in Otranto, but the week turned into something else. The house was unsettling from the moment we arrived. All over the ground floor there were strange openings built into the floor, some of them dropping into deep stone shafts. One was filled with bottles, others just sat dark and empty, and they made the whole place feel uneasy. By the second day we found an extinguished cigarette left on a ledge that hadn’t been there before. At night the noises started, sounds we couldn’t explain that kept us awake and on edge.In this episode we talk about the week we spent in what we started calling our ScareBNB. We share the details that made the stay so unnerving, how it felt to live in that house for days on end, and why this trip to Puglia became one of the strangest travel experiences we have ever had.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-dayLicense code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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22
Normandy Travel Guide: Monet’s Gardens, Honfleur, Étretat and Rouen
Send us Fan MailThis summer, we spent a few days road-tripping through Normandy after a weekend in Paris, and this is Part 1 of our two-part series. From Monet’s gardens in Giverny to the modern architecture of Le Havre, the historic harbor in Honfleur, the cliffs of Étretat, and an evening in Rouen, we covered a little bit of everything.In this episode, we share where we stayed, what we ate, and our favorite spots in each town, along with tips for planning your own Normandy getaway. Whether you’re into gardens, coastal views, or historic cities, this trip had it all.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-dayLicense code: G7J4UDC0NAOFRJYLSupport the show
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21
Puglia Summer Guide: Beaches, Towns and Our Three-Week Trip
Send us Fan MailIn this episode we’re recapping our summer road trip from the Netherlands to Puglia and back. We spent three weeks in Puglia enjoying the beaches, towns and food while making stops along the way there and back. In this episode we’re sharing our favorite moments, a few surprises and what we’d plan differently next time.If you’re thinking about visiting Puglia or just want to hear about our summer travels this one’s for you.Support the show
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20
Our Favorite European Trips Since 2017: A Birthday Travel Round-Up
Send us Fan MailWe’re kicking off Season 2 of The Getawayz with a trip down memory lane, sharing all the places we’ve celebrated Lisa’s birthday since moving to Europe in 2017. From beach towns to the mountains, we’ve had some unforgettable trips, amazing food and a few hiccups along the way. Whether you’re planning your own European birthday trip or just looking for new travel inspiration, this episode has plenty of ideas to add to your list.Support the show
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19
Fall Travel in Europe: Our Honest Opinions and Real Questions Answered
Send us Fan MailThis episode isn’t a guide. It’s just us asking each other random fall-related questions and giving honest answers.What country does fall best? What’s the most overrated tradition? Do we actually like mulled wine? And what do we miss about fall in the US?Some answers are thoughtful, some are ridiculous, and a few might get us in trouble. If you’ve ever spent fall in Europe or wondered what it’s really like, this one’s for you.Support the show
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18
Fall Festivals in Europe: The Wildest and Most Delicious Events to Plan Around
Send us Fan MailFall in Europe isn’t just about changing leaves and fewer tourists, it’s when the continent throws its best parties. We’re talking wine parades in Paris, truffle markets in Italy, pumpkin fairs, mushroom hunts, and events where people carry their spouses or try to win prizes by making the weirdest face possible.In this episode, we’re sharing the most memorable fall festivals across Europe. Some are famous, some are downright strange but every single one is worth the detour. If you’re planning a trip in September, October, or November, this is your ultimate fall festival guide.Support the show
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17
48 Hours in Berlin: What We Did, Ate and Loved
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we’re diving into Berlin, a city that never quite lets you forget where you are. From the Berlin Wall to museum hopping, riverside strolls to underground clubs, Berlin balances its heavy history with some serious creativity. We’re talking about what we did, what we ate, and why Berlin keeps pulling us back. Whether you're visiting with teens, friends, or on your own, Berlin’s got something for you.👉 What we loved 🍴 Where we ate 🛏️ Where we stayed 🎧 Plus a few surprises you might not expect from Germany’s capital.Support the show
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16
Oktoberfest in Munich: Lederhosen, Steins and a 10th Birthday to Remember
Send us Fan MailThis episode covers everything you need to know about Oktoberfest in Munich, from royal history and traditional outfits to beer tents, rides and the quieter Oide Wiesn. Personal stories from past visits highlight what it’s like to go in your 20s and what it’s like to experience the festival with kids. Tips on what to wear, where to stay, when to go and why this festival is more family friendly than you might think.Support the show
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15
Champagne Travel Guide: What It’s Really Like to Visit
Send us Fan MailWe headed to the Champagne region of France for a trip filled with tastings, cellars, and a few surprises. In this episode, we talk about our visits to Reims, Épernay, and Hautvillers, and which Champagne houses were actually worth touring. From Veuve Clicquot to Mercier’s kitschy train ride to sipping in the birthplace of Champagne, we share the highlights and what we’d skip next time. If you’re thinking about a Champagne trip (or just love wine), this one’s for you. Read more about Champagne here.Support the show
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14
Puglia Travel Guide: Beaches, Burrata and Our Summer Trips
Send us Fan MailPuglia is one of our favorite places for a summer escape. In this episode, we’re sharing why. We’ve explored this beautiful region twice, staying everywhere from Torre San Giovanni’s sandy beaches to Polignano a Mare’s dramatic cliffs.In this episode, we’ll take you through some of Puglia’s best spots, including: Torre San Giovanni Locorotondo (sleeping in a trullo!) A burrata tasting you won’t forget The iconic Lama Monachile beach Grotta Palazzese (yes — that cliffside cave restaurant) Gallipoli’s old town Ostuni’s whitewashed streets Alberobello’s UNESCO trulli Bari Vecchia An escape room surprise in PolignanoWhether you’re planning your first trip or returning for more, this is your guide to a perfect Puglia summer.Support the show
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Real travel stories and practical guides for exploring Europe the way people actually travel.Welcome to the getAwayZ. We’re Erin and Lisa, friends and roommates who moved from the U.S. to Europe in 2017. Since then, we’ve spent years traveling across the continent, mostly by car, figuring out what’s worth your time and what isn’t.Sometimes that travel includes Erin’s teenage son and Lisa’s dog, Rex. Sometimes it doesn’t. Either way, we talk honestly about where to stay, what to skip, what to eat and drink, when to go and what you need to plan ahead for.Whether you’re planning a trip to Europe or thinking about living abroad, the getAwayZ shares realistic, practical advice based on real experience.
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