Bantering across Borders

Send us Fan MailIn the final episode of Series 2, we head to one of the most surprising, humbling, and fascinating destinations we've ever visited: Iraqi Kurdistan. Growing up during the Gulf War, “Iraq” was a word that came wrapped in fear and conflict on the news, so stepping foot there as two middle-aged expats armed with just a couple of curious minds, felt surreal. And magical. And completely unexpected. Join us as we wander through ancient monasteries, share dinners with locals, and walk barefoot through the sacred Yazidi village of Lalish — one of the most moving travel experiences we've ever had. We also climb up to the atmospheric Citadel of Erbil, reflect on the kindness of everyone we met, and marvel at how different reality is from the headlines we grew up hearing. Stay with us till the end as answer our season-ending question: What do we wish for each other as life takes us on different paths? This is an episode about challenging assumptions, embracing curiosity, and discovering the humanity and beauty of a place too often misunderstood. If you enjoy the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and join us for future adventures in Series 3!  Our guides Here are the two companies we used for our trip to Kurdistan - escape travels who organised everything and then our tour guide Haval who runs many trips across the country. Escape Travels  https://www.escape-travels.com/ https://www.instagram.com/escape_travels?igsh=MXNycDZzaTgzbGR0Mw== Haval - tour guide Kurdistan.  https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g659505-d14863085-Reviews-Iraqi_Kurdistan_Guide-Erbil_Erbil_Province.html https://iraqikurdistanguide.com/ https://www.instagram.com/iraqi_kurdistan_guide?igsh=NmZpcmJpZ3kxd3k1&utm_source=qr  Why this episode matters Kurdistan challenged every preconception we had. It reminded us why we travel: to replace headlines with human stories, to be humbled by unexpected beauty, and to meet people who open their homes, their holy sites, and their hearts.  🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders 

Send us Fan MailThinking about moving overseas or already living the expat life? In this episode of Bantering Across Borders, Sarah and Tony share their personal journeys of building a life abroad—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. From making friends and handling culture shock to the practical realities of expat living, they explore the benefits, disadvantages, and lessons learned along the way. Episode notes Bantering Across Borders – Episode: Building a Life Abroad In this special episode of Bantering Across Borders, Sarah and Tony step away from their usual trip-by-trip storytelling to reflect on what it really means to build a life abroad. From the funny to the frustrating, they share their personal journeys, lessons learned, and the realities of life as British expats. Expect honest banter, practical advice, and a peek behind the curtain of expat life—everything from making friends in new places, to battling culture shock, to redefining what “home” actually means. Whether you’re already an expat, considering a move, or just curious about life overseas, this episode has something for you. Join us as we swap stories, laugh at our misadventures, and share what we’ve learned along the way. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders 

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Bantering Across Borders! In this episode, Tony and Sarah shine a spotlight on Oman — the Gulf’s hidden gem. With its chocolate-brown mountains, lush greenery, and vast deserts, Oman is nothing like its glitzy Gulf neighbours. It’s chilled, authentic, and full of surprises for travellers looking to step off the beaten path. Join Tony and Sarah as they relive their epic road trip across the country — a journey that included following every brown tourist sign, crossing the Tropic of Cancer, and uncovering wadis, forts, and breathtaking scenery (all with the help of a “sexy” GPS system). You’ll also hear about their turtle-watching misadventure in Ras Al Haad, the charms of Muscat, the unique beauty of Salalah during Khareef season, and why camping in the Empty Quarter is something everyone should try at least once. Expect plenty of laughs, random detours, and the kind of friendship banter that only comes from hours on the road together. 🎧 If you’ve ever wondered what makes Oman so special, this is the episode for you. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders 

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Bantering Across Borders! In this episode, Tony and Sarah head to a part of the world they knew very little about just three days before setting off — Uzbekistan, the historic crossroads of Central Asia. This spontaneous trip takes them through a land of dazzling architecture, rich history, and hearty meals of plov. From Tashkent’s vibrant markets and metro stations to the iconic city of Samarkand with its Shah-i-Zinda mausoleums, Registan Square, and Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Uzbekistan delivers surprise after surprise. Along the way, Tony and Sarah discover the legacy of Amir Temur, stumble upon Tony’s namesake restaurant, and share their best tips for making the most of a short 3-day getaway. Of course, no Bantering Across Borders episode would be complete without laughs, reflections on friendship, and the ultimate question: would they go back? 🎧 If Uzbekistan has ever been on your radar (or even if it hasn’t!), this episode will inspire you to add it to your travel list. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders 

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Bantering Across Borders! In this episode, Tony and Sarah take you to Sri Lanka — one of their earliest trips together — and prove just how much culture, adventure, and fun you can pack into a single weekend. From watching elephants being bathed at Pinnawala 🐘, exploring the ancient Dambulla Caves 🪨, and staying overnight at the iconic Cinnamon Lodge 🎶  to climbing (or refusing to climb!) Sigiriya’s Lion Rock 🦁, going on safari in Minneriya National Park and more 🐘🦓 — this whirlwind trip covers the cultural and natural highlights of Sri Lanka. As always, Tony and Sarah share plenty of laughs, misadventures, and reflections on travelling together — including what they learned about each other on only their second ever trip as friends. 🎧 Whether you’re short on time or planning a longer adventure, this episode is packed with tips and inspiration for making the most of Sri Lanka in just a few days. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders 

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Bantering Across Borders! Join Tony and Sarah as they turn their expat lens onto Dubai – their home for over a decade – to share a very different side of the city that most tourists never see. Forget the clichés of mega malls and shiny skyscrapers. In this episode, your favourite bantering duo reveal their insider tips for getting off the tourist trail and uncovering Dubai’s surprising hidden gems. From flamingos in the desert, serene lakes at sunrise, and the bustle of the old town, to camel racing, comedy nights, and why a golf course restaurant might just be the perfect spot for people-watching, Tony and Sarah uncover the quirks and charms of life in Dubai. Along the way, they share how living in this ever-changing city has shaped them, reflect on their friendship, and drop a few laughs about the everyday realities of expat life. 🎧 Whether you’re planning a trip, living in the UAE, or just curious about what lies beyond the glitter, this episode will give you fresh perspectives on Dubai. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss the next stop on our bantering journey! 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders 

Send us Fan MailReady to hear about ancient pyramids, and unexpected sandstorms? In this episode, we take you deep into Sudan, as we road trip from Khartoum to the pyramids in Meroe.  Expect history, humour, and a bit of mayhem. This is not a travel guide—it’s a real-life travel tale packed with laughs, surprises, and heartfelt moments  In this episode, we cover:  The real story behind Sudan’s pyramids  What’s inside the National Museum of Sudan  Surviving a sandstorm while camping in the desert   What it’s really like to travel in Sudan as a foreigner If you’re curious about off-the-beaten-path travel, and love a good laugh, this episode is for you.   Perfect for listeners who love:   Travel podcasts with personality   African travel stories   Underrated destinations   Funny and authentic storytelling   British humour and expat adventures   Real travel, not Instagram gloss Mentioned in this episode: Escape Travels – Get your exclusive discount on your next adventure. Visit https://www.escape-travels.com and listen in for the promo code!    Don’t forget to listen to the rest of the series and join us as we share our travel tales from Saudi, South Korea, Azerbaijan, and Kuwait. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Bantering Across Borders, Sarah and Tony—British expats and best friends—take you on a three-day journey through the stunning and surprising country of Azerbaijan. From staying overnight with locals in Xinaliq, one of the highest and most remote villages in the Caucasus Mountains, to exploring the ultra-modern skyline and unexpected gems of Baku, this episode is full of laughs, cultural insights, and memorable travel moments.  Find out why Tony unexpectedly fell in love with a carpet museum, why Sarah ended up in a heated dinner table debate, and what it's really like to travel as part of a group tour for the first time. As always, their signature banter brings a mix of storytelling, personal reflection, and friendship-fuelled travel inspiration. If you're curious about off-the-beaten-path travel, meaningful shared experiences, and the quirky dynamics of long-time friends exploring the world together, you’re in the right place. In This Episode You’ll Discover: - What makes Xinaliq one of the world’s most unique mountain villages   - How Baku’s modern architecture and culture defy expectations   - Why Tony is obsessed with Azerbaijan’s Carpet Museum   - The ups and downs of joining a group trip as independent travellers   - How travel continues to strengthen their friendship Perfect for listeners who love ✓ Travel podcasts   ✓ Exploring lesser-known countries   ✓ Authentic friendship dynamics   ✓ British expat stories   ✓ Travel guides with personality Planning your next adventure? Check out our friends at Escape Travels and use the discount code mentioned in the episode to save on your next adventure: https://www.escape-travels.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders 

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Bantering Across Borders! Join Tony and Sarah as they take a trip down memory lane to share their recollections about a weekend jaunt to Kuwait. Listen in as they go from anticipating Kuwait to being boring to finding unexpected adventure and lots of charm in this serene country.Discover why they get stuck on a once military strategic island, and what they thought about the cultural activities on offer in this Gulf state. They also dive deeper into their own personal stories, thoughts and feelings, covering topics such as faith, destiny and their definitive soundtrack for life. Tune in for some more hilarious banter as the two best friends unpack their friendship and reveal why travel continues to bond them.  🎧Planning a trip to Kuwait? Tony and Sarah will share everything you need to know.Discover Kuwait  – it’ll definitely surprise you. Hit play now! 🗺️Check out our friends at escape travels and use the discount code in the podcast to secure a place on one of their next trips https://www.escape-travels.com/ #TravelVlog #Kuwait #KuwaitTowers #TravelTips #FriendshipGoals #HiddenGems #TravelStories #Podcast #newpodcast #MiddleEastTravel #roadtrip #failakaIsland #kuwaitcity #Dubaiblogger #saudivlog #icebreaking #conversationstarters #TimeLeft #adventure #adventuretrips #stories #expatlife #travelling 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders 

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Bantering Across Borders! Join Tony and Sarah as they uncover the other-worldly country of Djibouti. Listen in as they reminisce about a weekend trip deep into the small but strategic land, in the middle of the horn of Africa.   Why was Sarah left manning the boat while everyone swam with the whale sharks and what’s the real story about their visit to Lac Abbe and their trek to see the Flamingos?  Tune in for some hilarious banter as the two best friends unpack their friendship and reveal the moments that brought them closer together! 🎧 Discover Djibouti – it really is out of this world. Hit play now! 🗺️ Check out our friends at escape travels and use the discount code in the podcast to secure a place on one of their next trips https://www.escape-travels.com/   #TravelVlog #Djibouti #whaleshark#TravelTips #FriendshipGoals #HiddenGems #TravelStories #Podcast #newpodcast #africatravel #roadtrip🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders 

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Bantering Across Borders! Join Sarah and Tony as they venture through the vibrant streets of Seoul, South Korea! From the high-tech streets of Gangnam to uncovering secret clubs, they share unforgettable travel stories and explore Seoul’s unique blend of cutting-edge tech and timeless tradition.  Why did locals keep snapping photos of Tony, mistaking him for a K-pop star? And what’s the real story behind the love locks at Seoul Tower? Tune in for hilarious, eye-opening moments that’ll keep you hooked! 🎧 Discover South Korea like never before – hit play now! 🗺️ Check out our friends at escape travels and use the discount code in the podcast to secure a place on one of their next trips https://www.escape-travels.com/  #TravelVlog #SeoulAdventures #SouthKorea #TravelTips #FriendshipGoals #HiddenGems #SeoulTower #Gangnam #TravelStories 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders 

Send us Fan MailWelcome to the debut episode of Bantering Across Borders! Sarah and Tony kick things off by sharing their unforgettable road trip across Saudi Arabia! Expect a blend of adventure, banter, and cultural insights as they recount their journey across the Saudi desert. From hilarious moments with the car falling apart to some surprising music choices, this episode truly has it all. Here’s what you’ll hear: The Road Trip: The highs and lows of a six-hour desert drive, with the car blasting an unexpected mix of music,  Saudi’s Transformation: The changes Sarah and Tony have witnessed in Saudi Life as Expats: Navigating life in the Kingdom  Saudi’s Warm Welcome: How welcoming the locals are and the diverse geography that surprises most visitors. Tune in for an honest and fun dive into Saudi Arabia’s evolving landscape.  Check out our friends at escape travels and use the discount code in the podcast to secyre a place on one of their next trips https://www.escape-travels.com/  #BanteringAcrossBorders #SaudiArabia #RoadTrip #CulturalShift #ExpatLife #Travel #Banter #KSA #Dammam #Friendship #Music #SaudiTransformation#riyadh 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated with more content! Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banteringacrossborders/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@banteringborders