Long-distance trails have a way of capturing our imagination.

Whether it’s hiking across a national park, cycling through stunning countryside, or tackling a multi-day adventure somewhere in Europe, these kinds of journeys can feel both exciting and a little intimidating.

In this episode of the Wander Your Way podcast, I’m joined by Becki Rupp of Trailblazer Wellness.

Becki is an adventure coach and personal trainer who helps people prepare — physically and mentally — for long-distance hiking and cycling adventures.

She shares how she found her own path into adventure travel and coaching.

And why preparation can make all the difference when you’re taking on long-distance hikes or trails.

We talk about practical ways to train for long-distance hikes, including how to gradually build distance, why downhill training matters just as much as the climbs, and how getting comfortable in different weather conditions can help build resilience on the trail.

Becki also shares insight into the emotional side of these journeys.

How time spent on a trail can offer space for reflection, healing, and personal growth.

If you’ve ever dreamed about tackling long-distance hikes but aren’t sure where to begin, this conversation will give you plenty of helpful tips and encouragement.

From training advice to mindset shifts, Becki offers practical guidance to help make those big adventure dreams feel a lot more achievable.

We also chat about the different ways you can approach long-distance hiking — from going solo to joining a group or working with a tour operator who can help handle logistics along the way.

If the idea of spending days immersed in nature, moving through incredible landscapes, and challenging yourself in new ways appeals to you, this episode is for you.

Because the truth is… it’s never too late to start your own adventure.

Want to chat more about long distance hikes, walks or cycles?

Send me a note at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com

In this episode:

0:53: Intro

4:30: Introducing Becki

6:07: Becki’s story

11:40: Tips for physical training

16:58: Tips for mental training

25:42: Advice for hesitancy

29:02: Favorite trails

34:57: Becki’s services

41:45: Final tips & thoughts

49:15: Wrapping it up with Becki

50:56: Wrapping it up

Important links:

Trailblazer Wellness

Walking the West Highland Way • Scotland

Wander Your Way Adventures

Wander Your Way

Wander Your Way Resources

Patagonia

In this episode, I’m taking you to Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, England — one of the most magnificent country estates in all of Britain and absolutely worth your time.

I’ll share why Blenheim Palace isn’t just another stately home, but a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with history, drama, and architectural wow moments.

From its sweeping Baroque design to its jaw-dropping interiors, this place is grand in every sense of the word.

Of course, we’ll talk about its connection to Sir Winston Churchill — who was born here — and what you can expect from the exhibitions dedicated to his life and legacy.

But Blenheim Palace is so much more than Churchill.

I’ll walk you through the state rooms, the long library, the formal gardens, the landscaped parkland, and those iconic views that make you stop and just stare for a minute.

I’ll also share why I think you should plan to spend a full day here (yes, a full day), along with practical tips on timing your visit, how to approach the palace and grounds, and how to make the most of your time.

If you love history through travel, grand architecture, gorgeous gardens, and places that feel both regal and deeply human, then Blenheim Palace deserves a spot on your England itinerary.

Let’s wander through one of England’s most impressive estates together.

Want to chat more about Blenheim Palace?

Send me a note at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com

In this episode:

0:45: Intro

1:53: Placing Blenheim Palace on the map

3:31: Palace history

5:35: Pricing

7:06: Things to see in Blenheim Palace

14:49: The palace grounds

21:05: Final thoughts and tips

26:58: Wrapping it up

Important links:

Blenheim Palace

Wander Your Way

Wander Your Way Adventures

Wander Your Way Resources

REI

In this Listener Q&A episode, I’m answering a great question from Susan: What’s the best type of accommodation for a trip to Europe?

From hotels and guest houses to apartments, cottages, and even hostels, the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all.

It really depends on your travel style, budget, length of stay and who you’re traveling with.

I share some practical guidelines to help you decide when a hotel makes the most sense (especially in bigger cities), when a B&B or guest house can give you that more local feel, and why apartments or self-catering stays can be ideal for groups, families or longer visits.

I also talk about finding locally owned places using regional booking sites and tourism boards.

And I remind you to think about where your travel dollars go.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple or with a group, this short, info-packed episode will help you choose accommodations that fit your trip.

And maybe even make it more memorable.

Note: These Listener Q&A episodes don’t have a companion blog post, so you’ll only find this one in your favorite podcast app. Happy listening!

Important links:

Accommodation in Europe • Types & Tips

Listener Question Form

Wander Your Way Adventures

Wander Your Way

Wander Your Way Resources

We all have those destinations we think we know.

And then we get there and they completely win us over.

In this episode, I’m sharing a handful of places that surprised me in the very best way.

These are spots around Europe that went beyond my expectations and left a bigger impression than I ever imagined.

I’m talking about everything from the wild, rugged beauty of Ireland’s west coast to the storybook charm of York in England.

And yes, even Paris made this list because sometimes the most iconic places still manage to surprise you.

There are mountain regions that stole my heart, quieter corners that felt more magical than expected, and a few destinations that simply stayed with me long after I left.

This is a personal look at expectations vs. reality — and how some of the best travel moments happen when a place catches you off guard.

It’s also a reminder to leave a little room for the unexpected when you’re planning your own European adventure.

So now I’m curious… what are the places that surprised you in the best possible way?

Send me a note at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com

In this episode:

2:15: Intro

7:06: Ireland: County Donegal & West Cork

11:19: Paris, France

14:27: South Tyrol, Italy

17:20: Slovenia

20:24: Isle of Mull, Scotland

23:51: York, England

27:02: Krün, Germany

30:25: Peak District, England

33:31: Normandy, France

36:49: St Andrews, Scotland

41:42: Recap

42:20: Wrapping it up

Important links:

County Dongel • Ireland

West Cork • Ireland

Rainbow Weather: Exploring Beautiful West Cork Ireland with Kat Koch

The Best Things To Do in Paris in 4 Days

My Joyful Love Affair with the Beautiful and Diverse South Tyrol Italy

Slovenia • An Overview

Isle of Mull • Scotland

York • England

Black Forest & Bavaria • Germany

Discovering the Diverse and Beautiful Peak District England

Exploring Beautiful Normandy, France: Going Beyond the D-Day Beaches

Exploring St Andrews • Scotland with Bo Fraser

Wander Your Way

Wander Your Way Adventures

Wander Your Way Resources

Oofos

Travel becomes something entirely different when you understand the stories beneath your feet.

And in this episode, I’m joined by Jackie Lapin, founder of The Historic Traveler, to explore exactly how history and travel intertwine in the most meaningful ways.

In this conversation about history through travel, Jackie shares how her love of travel began just after college and how an early fascination with history — sparked during childhood and nurtured through years of reading — shaped the way she experiences the world.

From Ireland to Pompeii, she explains why knowing the context of a place transforms a visit from interesting into unforgettable.

We also talk about Jackie’s approach to blending books and travel, including how historical novels, biographies, and audiobooks can deepen your connection to the places you visit.

She shares why reading before you go changes what you notice once you arrive, and how learning through story makes history through travel feel accessible rather than overwhelming.

If you’ve ever felt drawn to historic places but weren’t sure how to truly connect with them, this episode will inspire you to slow down, look closer, and travel with deeper curiosity and understanding.

Want to chat more about history through travel?

Email me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com.

In this episode:

0:40: Intro

1:35: Introducing Jackie Lapin

4:35: Jackie's Story

14:45: Book directory & offerings

24:56: Experiences through history

28:08: Favorite sites

31:13: Historic hotels

32:34: Other favorites

43:15: Final tips & thoughts

47:10: Wrapping it up

53:39: Listener review

Important links:

The Historic Traveler

Nord VPN

Wander Your Way

Wander Your Way Adventures

Wander Your Way Resources

Normandy France is often synonymous with the D-Day beaches.

And for good reason.

But this remarkable region offers far more than its powerful World War II history.

In this episode, I invite you to look beyond the shoreline and discover the quieter, richer layers of Normandy that many travelers miss.

Alongside reflections on visiting the D-Day beaches — including a deeply moving guided tour that brings the history to life with care, context, and respect — I also share why Normandy’s culture and landscapes left such a lasting impression on me.

From creamy local cheeses and crisp apples to coastal views and rural countryside dotted with small towns, Normandy is a place that rewards those who slow down and wander a little further.

This episode is about honoring history while also embracing the present-day heart of the region — its people, its flavors, and its sense of place.

If you’re planning a trip to France, or simply curious about what lies beyond the most well-known sites, this episode offers inspiration for traveling through Normandy in a more meaningful, connected way.

Want to chat about Normandy, France?

Email me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com

In this episode:

1:10: Intro & Updates

6:08: Intro to Normandy France

6:34: Placing Normandy France on the map

8:36: Food of Normandy

12:16: Places to visit and stay

14:59: D-Day Beaches & surrounding areas

24:49: Gold Beach & British War Memorial

30:17: Moving inland: Bayeux, Espins, Clécy

43:40: Falaise

53:06: Final thoughts on Normandy

56:57: Listener review + Wrapping it up

In this episode:

Normandy France Tourism

Wander Your Way

Wander Your Way Adventures

Overlord Tours

Vuori

Falaise Castle

Falaise Memorial Museum

It’s a birthday episode 🎉 — and a milestone one at that.

This short and sweet listener Q&A marks 5 years of the Wander Your Way podcast, recorded and released on my birthday (because why not?).

I’m officially in a new decade, still young at heart, and celebrating with reflection, gratitude — and yes, a little bubbly.

In this very first Q&A episode, I answer a practical (and very common) Europe travel question: Should you exchange money before you leave home or wait until you arrive?

I break down the smart, stress-free approach to cash, ATMs, credit cards, and how things have changed since COVID.

Plus a few important tips to help you avoid bad exchange rates and unnecessary fees.

These new Q&A episodes are designed to be quick, helpful and to the point — bite-sized travel wisdom to make planning your Europe trip easier.

Have a question you want answered in a future episode?

Fill out the form right here.

Until next time… happy travels (and happy birthday to me). 🥂

Important links:

Tips on Handling Money in Europe

3 Quick Tips for Planning Your Trip to Europe: Show Me the Money!

Listener Question Form

Wander Your Way Adventures

Wander Your Way

Wander Your Way Resources

In this milestone episode, I’m celebrating 5 amazing years of the Wander Your Way podcast.

And I'm reflecting on the journey that started during the COVID pandemic and grew into a space for curious, independent Europe travelers.

To mark the anniversary, I’m sharing my 5 favorite travel experiences — moments that shaped not only how I travel, but why.

From my very first trip to Spain, to standing in awe inside Notre Dame Cathedral, to the electric atmosphere of The Open Championship in Scotland, these stories span cities, mountains, and deeply personal moments.

I also reflect on my love for the dramatic landscapes of the Dolomites, the transformative experience of walking the West Highland Way, and the lasting memories I made traveling through Ireland with my parents — a powerful reminder that travel isn’t just about where you go, but who you share it with.

So I’ll leave you with this question — what are some of your favorite and most memorable travel experiences?

If you feel like sharing, I’d love to hear them.

You can email me at lynne@wanderyourway.com

And if you’re up for it, let me know.

I may read one or two on a future episode of the podcast.

In this episode:

0:53: Intro

5:55: Bonus: Andalucía, Spain

8:56: Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris

11:38: The Open Championship at Royal Troon, Scotland

15:51: Dolomite Peaks, Italy

19:30: West Highland Way, Scotland

24:05: Three Weeks in Ireland

28:30: Wrapping it up

Important links:

The Best Things To Do in Paris in 4 Days

Notre Dame Paris

Tips for Attending a Sporting Event in Europe + My Experience at The Open Championship

Overview of the Dolomites • Italy

Visit the Dolomites

Walking the West Highland Way Scotland

West Highland Way

County Clare • Ireland

Podcast Listener form

Battleface Insurance

Wander Your Way Adventures

Wander Your Way

Wander Your Way Resources