In this episode of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins and co-host Doug Collins swap roles with special guest interviewer Amanda Kendle as they share their firsthand trip report from the Philippines.

The conversation centres on their ten-night stay at Moalboal Eco Lodge, located a few hours southwest of Cebu. Tracy and Doug share what it was like staying in an eco-conscious accommodation and why this peaceful corner of the Philippines made such a strong impression on them during their first visit to the country.

Along the way they discuss the warmth and friendliness of the Filipino people, local culture and cuisine, and what daily life was like during their stay in Moalboal. From snorkelling experiences to relaxed eco lodge living, the episode offers an honest look at travelling in this part of the Philippines.

They also talk about the practical side of visiting the country, including arriving in Cebu, getting around, money and connectivity, and some of the cultural surprises they encountered, including the local love of karaoke and the visible commitment to animal welfare in many communities.

If you are curious about the Philippines or interested in sustainable travel experiences, this trip report offers an authentic glimpse into what it is really like to stay in an eco lodge and explore this beautiful part of the world.

Show notes - Episode 92

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #29– From England to the Philippines: The Journey Behind Moalboal Ecolodge with Angie Briggs

Moalboal Eco Lodge

• 🌴 Book a stay at Moalboal Ecolodge
• 🌴 Instagram – MoalBaol Ecolodge

Dog Sanctuary

• 🐕 Instagram – Moalboal Animal Welfare

Spay & Neuter Charity

• 🐶 Support the charity

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Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

This week Tracy is joined by Japan travel specialist Helen Foster to share expert advice on visiting Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea, and Universal Studios Japan in Osaka.

If you are planning your first Japan trip and considering adding a theme park, this episode covers what you really need to know before you go.

Helen draws on nine trips to Japan to explain how each park differs, how ticketing systems work, what catches first-time visitors out, and whether Japan’s theme parks are worth it if you are not a huge “theme park person”.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The differences between Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea, and Universal Studios Japan
• How far in advance you need to book tickets and hotels
• How Disney Premier Access and Universal Express Pass work
• Common planning mistakes to avoid
• Whether you need a full day for a theme park
• What to expect during busy seasons like Golden Week
• Cultural differences inside Japanese theme parks

If you want to avoid long queues, understand the booking systems, and plan a stress-free visit, this episode will help you do exactly that.

⭐️ Guest - Helen Foster (Japlanease)
📝 Show Notes - Episode 91

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #38 – Top Tips and Insights for First-Time Travellers to Tokyo Japan
• Episode #13 – Discovering Japan: A 21 Day Itinerary
• Episode #14 – Visiting Japan: Top Tips for First-Time Travellers

Support the show

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

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🇬🇧UK Travel Planning
Website - UKTravelPlanning.com
Instagram - UK Travel Planning
YouTube - UK Travel Planning

📍London Travel Planning
Website - LondonTravelPlanning.com

Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

What makes Switzerland one of the most breathtaking countries in the world to explore by train?

This week Tracy is joined by Switzerland travel expert Carolyn, founder of Holidays to Switzerland, to talk about the scenic rail journeys and mountain excursions that draw visitors back again and again.

From iconic panoramic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express to shorter but equally spectacular routes such as the Lucerne–Interlaken Express, this episode dives into how Switzerland’s rail network turns travel days into unforgettable experiences. Carolyn shares her favourite train journeys, tips for planning around start and end points, and why flexibility is key when dealing with Alpine weather.

They also discuss common mistakes travellers make, including overpacking and forgetting to book seat reservations on panoramic trains, plus practical advice on using the Swiss Travel Pass and regional rail passes to help manage costs in one of Europe’s most expensive destinations.

You’ll also hear how to choose the right mountain excursions, whether you prefer cogwheel railways, funiculars or cable cars, and why allowing time in each base makes all the difference to your experience.

If Switzerland is on your list, this episode will help you plan smarter, travel lighter, and be prepared to be amazed at every turn.

Guest - Carolyn of Holidays to Switzerland
Show notes - Episode 90

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #6 - An introduction to Switzerland
• Episode #61 - Lucerne Deep Dive
• Episode #85 – Top 10 Most Incredible Train Journeys Around the World

Support the show

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

🗺 Global Travel Planning
Website - globaltravelplanning.com
Instagram - Global Travel Planning
YouTube - Global Travel Planning

🇬🇧UK Travel Planning
Website - UKTravelPlanning.com
Instagram - UK Travel Planning
YouTube - UK Travel Planning

📍London Travel Planning
Website - LondonTravelPlanning.com

Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!