Tourist to Traveller

Efate Island was my first introduction to Vanuatu, and I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect it to leave such an impression. I thought it would be a stop centred around Port Vila, before moving on to other islands. What I found instead surprised me.Once you step beyond Port Vila, Efate opens up into freshwater swimming holes, quiet beaches, island day trips and cultural experiences. In this episode, I’m sharing the best things to do on Efate Island, especially if it’s your first time visiting Vanuatu, and you want experiences that actually feel meaningful.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Efate Island is more than just Port VilaThe best swimming spots, beaches and waterfalls on EfateWhich island day trips are truly worth your timeCultural experiences that add depth to your visitWhere to find Efate’s best sunsets, bars and local nightlifeHow to get around the island When to visit Efate Island for the best balance of weather and crowdsHelpful Resources & LinksI’ve written a full blog guide to The Best Things to Do on Efate IslandIf you’re continuing your Vanuatu journey, don’t miss my related episode and guide on Tanna Island and Mount YasurConnect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Every traveller has that moment... standing at an airport carousel hoping your bag magically appears, realising your card’s been blocked overseas, or discovering the “must-see” attraction is completely sold out.I’ve been there. More than once. And while those moments usually become funny stories after the trip, they’re stressful, expensive, and exhausting in the moment... especially when you’ve used precious annual leave to be there.In this episode of Tourist to Traveller, I’m sharing ten real travel mistakes I’ve made over the years, and exactly how to avoid them, so you can travel with more confidence, less stress, and a whole lot more ease.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeThe biggest rookie mistake travellers still make before leaving homeWhy overplanning can ruin even the best tripsThe jet lag mistake that steals days from short tripsWhy pre-booking attractions matters more than everHow to avoid common transport scamsHow to travel smarter without overcomplicating thingsThis episode is about learning from mistakes without shame, and giving you simple, actionable ways to avoid them so you can spend less time troubleshooting and more time actually enjoying your trip.Helpful Resources & LinksRelated blog post: 10 Travel Mistakes You'll Never Make Again (and How to Avoid Them) Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Standing on the rim of a live volcano, feeling the ground rumble beneath your feet, watching lava burst into the night sky... this was a special moment for me. In this episode of Tourist to Traveller, I’m taking you to Tanna Island in Vanuatu, one of the most raw, powerful, and unforgettable places I’ve ever travelled. This is an island ruled by nature, not infrastructure, where life moves slowly and tradition still shapes everyday living.At the heart of it all is Mount Yasur, one of the most accessible active volcanoes on the planet. Visiting it wasn’t just a bucket list experience, it was a reminder of why I travel in the first place.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to get to Tanna Island and what to expect from domestic travelWhat it’s really like to visit Mount Yasur at sunset and after darkWhether Mount Yasur is safe, and why local guides are essentialWhy staying overnight on Tanna Island completely changes the experienceWhere to stay, and what else to do beyond the volcanoHelpful Resources & LinksI’ve written a full Tanna Island travel guide covering where to stay, what to pack, and what else to do.Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Some of my most memorable travel moments didn’t come from five-star hotels or big-ticket tours. They came from wandering side streets, eating where locals eat, and realising I didn’t need to spend more to experience more.Travelling on a budget has a reputation for being restrictive... like you’re constantly saying no, missing out, or stressing over every dollar. But in reality, when it’s done well, budget travel can be incredibly freeing. It pushes you to travel more intentionally, more creatively, and often more authentically.In this episode of Tourist to Traveller, I’m sharing how to travel on a budget without sacrificing the magic... the exact strategies I use to stretch my money further while still having rich, unforgettable experiences.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to choose destinations where your money naturally goes furtherHow to find cheaper flights without obsessing over dealsAccommodation hacks that save money without ruining the experienceSimple money-saving habits that add up while travellingHow to stop overspending before you even leave homeBudget travel isn’t about cutting joy... it’s about spending with intention. In this episode, I break down how planning smarter (not harder) allows you to travel more often and with far less financial stress.Helpful Resources & LinksHow to Travel on a Budget - Read the full blog guide expanding on these tips, including tools and real examples Travel Planning Like a Pro - My 5 step travel planning guide to help you budget, book and plan without overwhelm Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Some birthdays don’t need balloons, speeches, or the pressure of hosting everyone you’ve ever met. Some birthdays need a little adventure.In this episode, I’m sharing why milestone birthday travel has become one of my favourite traditions... and why, for some celebrations, a passport makes far more sense than a party. If the idea of hosting a big birthday fills you with dread, but the thought of booking a flight lights you up, consider this your permission slip.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to plan a milestone birthday trip What to do if not everyone can afford or commit to travellingHow to choose a destination that feels special Planning tips for the actual birthday day... what to book, what to avoidHelpful Resources & LinksBlog post: Why Your Next Milestone Birthday Deserves a Passport, Not a Party A simple planning guide to help you choose a destination, manage expectations, and plan a birthday that actually feels like you.Blog post: Where to Travel Next: Unique Destinations for Your Bucket List Inspiration for your next bucket list adventure. Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

On my recent trip to Palau in Micronesia, I wanted to go beyond the postcard views and curated tours. I was craving a hidden gem experience... something immersive and completely unforgettable. That’s how we ended up paddling through the Rock Islands on a two-day, one-night self-guided kayaking and camping adventure.In this episode, I’m taking you inside that experience, from hidden caves and WWII shipwrecks beneath our kayaks to camping on a remote beach with no one else around. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to do something like this (and whether you could do it too), you’re in the right place.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhat kayaking the Rock Islands of Palau is actually likeHow a self-guided kayaking and camping trip worksWhat wildlife and marine life you might see along the wayPractical tips for weather, packing, navigation, and safetyWhether this adventure is right for you Helpful Resources & LinksFree Resource: Palau Destination GuideA practical planning guide with packing lists, activities, tours, accommodation, logistics tips, and adventure ideas beyond diving... perfect if Palau’s on your bucket list.Blog Post: Kayaking the Rock Islands of Palau: Everything You Need to Know Before You GoRelated Episode: Why Palau Should Be on Your Bucket ListIf Palau’s even remotely on your radar, grab my free Palau Destination Guide... it’ll help you plan smarter, pack better, and feel confident booking experiences like this.I’ve also linked my full kayaking guide in the show notes if you want to dive deeper. And if this episode sparked your sense of adventure, make sure you’re following the podcast so you don’t miss what’s coming next.Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Jet lag used to be the part of travel I dreaded most. Not the packing. Not the long flights. The bone-deep exhaustion that hit on arrival... the kind that steals your first few days and makes everything feel foggy, flat, and harder than it should be.As an Aussie, long-haul travel is just part of the deal. Whether I’m landing in Athens, Casablanca or Barcelona, it’s usually after 20+ hours of flying, multiple time zones, and some very questionable sleep.But after years of long-haul travel, I’ve worked out how to avoid jet lag almost completely... without sleeping pills, gimmicks, or losing days of my trip. In this episode, I’m sharing the real-world habits that actually work, so you can arrive tired but functional… and start enjoying your trip from Day 1.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to start adjusting to your destination time zone while still in the airThe simple in-flight habits that help reset your body clockWhy meal times matter more than sleep on long-haul flightsHow to handle arrival day without crashing or losing momentumJet lag isn’t just about lack of sleep... it’s about timing, routine, and how quickly your body adapts to a new rhythm. In this episode, I break down the practical strategies I use on every long-haul trip to minimise jet lag and maximise energy on arrival.Helpful Resources & LinksRelated Blog Post: How to Avoid Jet Lag While Travelling: Real Tips That Actually Work Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Southern Spain has a way of pulling you in. It’s not just the big-ticket sights... the Moorish palaces, the cliffside walks, the UNESCO-listed landmarks... it’s the in-between moments. Rooftop sunsets with €2 wine. Wandering historic villages with no real plan. Eating tapas while watching locals dancing in the streets. In this episode, I’m sharing exactly how to experience Andalusia properly... without rushing, burnout, or trying to squeeze the entire south of Spain into a week. If you want a trip that feels rich, balanced, and deeply memorable, this one’s for you.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Andalusia is one of Europe’s most rewarding regionsThe best places to visit in southern Spain (and how long to stay)A traveller-approved 2-week Andalusia itineraryHow to get around southern Spain (train vs car)The best time to visit Andalusia, and when to avoidPractical tips to avoid crowds, heat, and booking mistakesHelpful Resources & LinksBlog Post: The Ultimate South of Spain Travel Guide Blog Post: Hiking Caminito del Rey: Spain’s Most Epic Cliffside WalkBlog Post: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Málaga, SpainConnect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

After more than 20 years of travelling, I’ve learned that travel isn’t just about where you go. It’s about how you show up while you’re there.I’ve experienced some truly magical moments on the road… and I’ve also been stuck next to some wildly uncomfortable travel behaviour. The kind that doesn’t ruin a trip entirely, but subtly drains the joy out of flights, airports, tours, and group adventures.This episode of Tourist to Traveller is a candid, good-humoured look at my biggest travel icks... shared not with judgement, but with the hope that we can all travel a little more consciously, respectfully, and confidently.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeThe most common airport and plane behaviours that frustrate travellersWhy small actions can have a big impact in shared travel spacesCultural travel habits that disrespect destinationsGroup travel dynamics that can derail an otherwise great tripHelpful Resources & LinksRead the full blog article My Biggest Travel Icks (And How Not to Be That Traveller). Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

If you’ve seen the news lately, chances are you’ve seen headlines about escalating conflict in parts of the Middle East and Europe. And when those headlines start appearing, many travellers immediately ask the same question: Should I still travel?It’s a complicated space to navigate. Safety matters, of course. But the world is also far more nuanced than a breaking news alert or a dramatic headline.In this episode of Tourist to Traveller, I’m sharing the process I personally used when this event impacted my travel plans, and how I recently made the decision to pivot my upcoming trip.Because becoming a confident traveller isn’t about ignoring risk, it’s about learning how to navigate uncertainty with clarity and good judgement.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeThe simple “pause, re-assess, pivot” framework I use when evaluating destinationsThe exact decision-making process I used when reassessing my own upcoming tripPractical ways to adjust your itinerary rather than cancelling travel entirelyWhen global tensions rise, it’s natural for travellers to feel uncertain about their plans. Ultimately, this episode is about shifting the mindset from fear-based travel decisions to informed travel decisions. With the right information and a flexible approach, travellers can continue exploring the world responsibly, even when global events create uncertainty.Helpful Resources & LinksIf you’d like a simple framework to help you plan your next trip, my guide Travel Planning Like A Pro In 5 Easy Steps walks you through the same decision-making process I use so you can plan trips with confidence.If this episode helped you think differently about travel during uncertain times, feel free to share it with a fellow traveller who might need the same reminder: pause, re-assess, and pivot... but don’t stop exploring the world. Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Some travel memories blur with time. Others stay so vivid you can almost taste them again.For me, so many of those lasting memories are tied to food... not just what was on the plate, but where I was sitting, who I was with, and that exact moment when I took a bite and knew it was special.In this episode, I’m sharing the most unforgettable meals I’ve eaten around the world. These aren’t fancy fine-dining experiences or viral Instagram spots. They’re the meals that made me pause and smile, the ones I still think about years later.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy food creates some of our strongest travel memoriesThe meals around the world that left a lasting impression on meHow simplicity often beats complexity when it comes to unforgettable foodWhy food-led travel creates deeper, more meaningful experiencesHelpful Resources & LinksRelated Blog Post: The Best Food I’ve Tried Around the World: Meals I Still Dream About Years Later Explore More: Destination guides, itineraries and travel tips over on the Tourist to Traveller blog.And if you loved this episode, head to the blog to explore the full food guide, or browse other Tourist to Traveller episodes for more inspiration to help you move from tourist to traveller.Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Have you ever scrolled through Instagram, saved a hundred dreamy travel posts… and then felt completely stuck on where to start? Like everyone else has some secret system for planning epic trips, and you somehow missed the memo.I’ve been there. And after more than 20 years of fitting bucket-list adventures around full-time work, and real-life responsibilities, I’ve learned that great travel doesn’t come from over-planning... it comes from smart planning.In this episode, I’m sharing the exact five-step framework I use to plan my own trips... the same process that helps me find hidden gems, incredible food, and experiences that actually live up to the hype.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to plan travel like a pro (without spreadsheets taking over your life)My five simple stages of stress-free travel planningHow to turn inspiration into a realistic, enjoyable itineraryWhy mapping your trip changes everythingHow to balance structure with spontaneityPractical booking tips that save time, money, and energyHelpful Resources & LinksRelated Blog Post: Travel Planning Like A Pro In 5 Easy StepsA practical checklist and planning framework to help you follow this exact five-step process for your next trip.Tools Mentioned:Google Maps, Skyscanner, Expedia, Booking.com Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Tasmania is one of those destinations people think they understand, until they actually go.It’s often labelled as cold, quiet, or somewhere you just “do a quick lap.” But spend any real time there and you realise Tasmania is layered, wild, creative, and deeply rewarding for travellers who are willing to slow down.In this destination deep dive, I’m sharing how to experience Tasmania... from choosing the right regions to avoiding the biggest planning mistakes I see time-poor travellers make again and again.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to choose regions based on your travel style (not a checklist)How much time you actually need, and where it’s worth slowing downUnmissable experiences that go beyond the obvious highlightsPractical planning tips for weather, distances, and limited annual leaveQuick note: the audio quality in this episode isn’t perfect in parts due to recording conditions, but the content is solid and absolutely worth a listen if Tasmania is on your bucket list.Helpful Resources & LinksIf you want to go deeper after listening, I’ve shared detailed Tasmania guides on the blog, including:Tasmania Regional Guide - to help you choose where to goUnmissable Things to Do in Tasmania - experiences worth prioritisingFascinating Facts About Tasmania - great context before you visitConnect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

For every dreamy travel photo you see online, there’s usually a moment behind the scenes where something didn’t go to plan. A missed flight. Accommodation that looked nothing like the photos. Or that sinking feeling when you realise you’ve packed your itinerary so tightly there’s no room to actually enjoy the trip.After more than 20 years of travelling, often squeezing bucket-list adventures into annual leave, I’ve had my fair share of travel fails. And while they were frustrating at the time, they’ve shaped the way I travel today far more than the “perfect” trips ever did.In this episode of Tourist to Traveller, I’m getting honest about when travel goes wrong, what those moments taught me, and how you can avoid common mistakes... without overplanning, stressing yourself out, or losing the joy of travel.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy travel going wrong is more common than social media makes it lookMy most memorable travel fails (and what I learned from each one)How travel fails can actually make you a more confident travellerHelpful Resources & LinksFree Resource: Travel Planning Like A Pro In 5 Easy Steps A practical guide designed to help you avoid common travel mistakes before you book. Perfect for busy travellers who want better trips without overthinking every detail.And if this episode resonated, explore more Tourist to Traveller episodes to help you travel with confidence, clarity, and intention. Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Most travellers have never heard of Palau, and that’s exactly what makes it so fascinating. Palau is one of the most unique destinations in the Pacific. With more than 300 islands and one of the world’s largest marine sanctuaries, Palau offers a very different experience to more commercialised tropical destinations.Tucked away in Micronesia, Palau is a country where visitor numbers are intentionally low, where you sign an environmental pledge on arrival, and where entire islands remain uninhabited.In this destination deep dive, I’m unpacking what Palau is really like to travel, beyond the photos and the hype. From when to go and how to get there, to what’s actually worth your time once you arrive, this episode is designed to help you decide whether Palau belongs on your bucket list.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhere Palau is and why it remains under-the-radarThe best time of year to visit Palau The top things to see and do A realistic 7-10 day Palau itinerary Practical Palau travel tips Destinations Mentioned Rock Islands, Koror, Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, Ngardmau Waterfall, Palau National Capitol, Kuabes Park Beach, Belau National Museum, Mesekelat Waterfall, Etpison Museum, Jellyfish Lake, Natural Arch, Milky Way Lagoon, Blue Corner, German Channel, Shark City, Airai Bai, Japanese WWII Lighthouse, Japanese WWII Communications Centre. Helpful Resources & LinksIf Palau’s now on your radar, download my Palau Destination Guide, it pulls everything from this episode into one practical, easy-to-use resource. And if you want to keep planning, head to touristtotraveller.com for my full Palau travel guides and itinerary breakdown. Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Travel is changing… and if you’ve felt that pull towards slower, more meaningful adventures, you’re not alone. The way we travel in 2026 looks very different to the whirlwind, checklist-style trips of the past. Travellers are craving depth over speed, intention over excess, and experiences that actually enhance their lives.In this episode of the Tourist to Traveller Podcast, I explore the 10 biggest travel trends shaping 2026, from iconic road trips and underrated destinations to off-grid escapes, wellness travel, AI trip planning and the rise of overwater villas beyond the Maldives.It’s about understanding where travel is heading, and how you can use these shifts to plan smarter, more fulfilling bucket list adventures… even with limited time and annual leave.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeGlobal travel trends shaping 2026Why slow travel and road trips are having a major comebackHow eco and regenerative travel are becoming non-negotiableHow AI is changing the way we plan and experience tripsNew destinations offering overwater villas beyond the MaldivesHelpful Resources & LinksBlog: Why Everyone Should Do a Yearly Off-Grid Tiny House Stay (And How to Plan Yours)Blog: The Future of Travel AI Is Here: How AI Is Revolutionising the Way We Plan, Book & Experience the WorldUntil next time, go beyond the tourist track and level up your travel experiences. Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

I’m an independent traveller at heart. I love planning my own trips and moving at my own pace. But sometimes, a group tour is honestly the smartest option, especially when time, energy, or logistics are working against you.The problem is, not all group tours are created equal. If you’ve ever been stuck on a massive bus, rushed through highlights, or dragged from one tourist shop to another, you’ll know how quickly a trip can lose its magic.In this episode, I’m sharing my personal process for choosing a group tour that actually enhances your experience, not one that leaves you frustrated and exhausted.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to know if a group tour is right for youWhy group size matters more than you thinkWhat to look for in itineraries, transport, and accommodationHow to avoid time-wasting toursRed flags to watch for before bookingMy go-to group tour companies (and why)If you’ve ever felt torn between independent travel and organised trips, this episode will help you choose with confidence... without the overwhelm.Helpful Resources & LinksRelated Tourist to Traveller blog post: How to Choose the Right Group Tour: My Personal Selection Process Follow my travels on Instagram: @_touristtotravellerThanks for tuning in to the Tourist to Traveller Podcast. Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Have you already started dreaming about where 2026 might take you? Not just anywhere, but somewhere that still feels authentic, meaningful, and memorable.With crowds intensifying, costs rising, and overtourism changing the way destinations feel, travel is shifting. 2026 isn’t about ticking off the same hotspots everyone else is chasing. It’s about choosing places with depth, diversity, and stories that stay with you long after the trip ends.In this episode, I’m sharing the destinations I believe are about to have a moment... including underrated gems, comeback destinations, and a few wildcards for travellers craving something truly different.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow travel trends are changing in 2026Why depth, space, and feeling matter more than everUnderrated destinations to visit before they boomComeback and emerging destinations worth planning earlyEpisode Summary Travel in 2026 is being shaped by overtourism, sustainability, accessibility, and a growing desire to travel with intention. There’s a clear shift away from rushing through destinations and towards experiences that feel grounding, immersive, and memorable.Helpful Resources & LinksRelated Tourist to Traveller blog posts: The Hottest Places to Travel in 2026 (Including Underrated Destinations To Watch) Until next time, go beyond the tourist track and level up your travel experiences. Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration. 

Subscribe now to the Tourist to Traveller Podcast, a brand new podcast series. In this trailer episode, I’m sharing the story behind the Tourist to Traveller Podcast and why shifting how you travel can completely change how travel feels... even when time, money, and annual leave are limited.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeThe real difference between a tourist and a travellerWhy “perfect” trips can still feel underwhelmingWhat this podcast will help you do differentlyEpisode SnapshotI’m Tahnee, an Australian travel blogger and everyday explorer who’s been ticking off bucket list destinations for over 20 years while balancing a full-time 9-5.This podcast is for curious, time-poor travellers who want more than cookie-cutter itineraries. Each week, I’ll share destination deep dives, practical planning tips, packing strategies, and travel photography advice to help you travel smarter... not harder. Start Your JourneyHit subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming destination deep dives and practical travel strategies.Explore the Tourist to Traveller Blog for destination guides, packing lists, and bucket-list itineraries.Because life’s too short for average trips, and it’s time to travel like a traveller.Connect & ExploreFind destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration.