In the second part of our Rome series, Travel in 10 host David Brodie reconnects with award-winning travel writer Tim Johnson, who shares fresh insights from his recent visit to the Italian capital. From smart tips on navigating the city to unforgettable pasta spots and hotel recommendations, this episode focuses on the practicalities of planning a great first trip to Rome—especially if you want to avoid the crowds, find the perfect meal, and stay somewhere memorable.

In This Episode:

Arriving in Rome: What to Know

• Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) Airport is located outside the city—expect a 45+ minute transfer
• Public transit works well but doesn’t reach everywhere due to underground ruins
• Uber operates as a taxi-hailing service; local taxis are plentiful
• Don’t let transit logistics ruin your day—sometimes a cab is worth it

When to Visit

• May and September are ideal: fewer crowds, great weather
• Be mindful of Italian holidays—some local businesses may close in August
• Rome is always busy, but some shoulder-season planning can ease the experience

Where to Eat: Rome’s Food Scene

• Trastevere: A bohemian neighborhood beyond the river, full of narrow laneways and packed with locals and hidden gems
• 50 Kalò di Ciro Salvo: Neapolitan-style pizza, named one of Italy’s best by The New York Times
• Trattoria della Stampa: Small, atmospheric Roman eatery known for its classic pastas: carbonara, cacio e pepe, and amatriciana. Affordable and beloved by locals—reserve ahead!

Where to Stay

• Hotel Hassler: Iconic, family-owned hotel at the top of the Spanish Steps with panoramic views of the Vatican and central Rome
• The Edition Rome: Sleek, modern, design-forward luxury
• St. Regis Rome: Classic elegance with historic character and excellent service
• Waldorf Astoria Rome (Rome Cavalieri): A hillside retreat with resort vibes—perfect for escaping the city buzz

Can’t-Miss Hidden Gems

• Basilica Santa Maria del Popolo: A lesser-known church with two original Caravaggio masterpieces. Open limited hours. Bring a €2 coin to light up the artwork.
• Insider Tip: Ask locals—concierges, tour guides, shopkeepers—for under-the-radar finds. Rome has layers of history and culture waiting to be uncovered.

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Next up: We head to Lisbon, Portugal, followed by a special guest episode from Paris with Oliver Gee of The Earful Tower. Stay tuned—and don’t forget to send us your travel questions and destination requests.

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In this first of two special episodes on Rome, Italy, hosts David Brodie & Tim Johnson explore the Eternal City as it stands in 2025—where timeless beauty meets the buzz of modern travel. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, and from hilltop gardens to hidden sovereign territories, this episode offers an insightful and entertaining look at how to make the most of your time in Rome, especially if you're visiting during peak season.

In This Episode:

Is Rome Worth Visiting in High Season?

• Why the crowds and heat are worth it—and how to stay cool with tips like filling up at the city’s free nasoni fountains.

Iconic Rome

• Colosseum: Why booking ahead and joining a guided tour transforms your experience
• Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps: Expect crowds, but don’t skip them—coin tosses and city views await
• Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: Must-see masterpieces—book timed tickets in advance
• St. Peter’s Basilica: No ticket required, but take time to explore quieter corners for moments of peace
• Keykeeper Tour Tip: Be the first inside the Vatican by joining a private early-morning opening tour

Off-the-Beaten-Path Highlights

• Access Italy’s Golf Cart Tour: A customizable and stylish way to explore the city’s hidden gems
• Giancarlos Beneditti Corcus: A local artist painting in the laneways near Piazza Navona
• Villa Borghese Gardens: Shady paths, scenic views, and quiet cafés—perfect for escaping the crowds
• Knights of St. John (Sovereign Military Order of Malta): A quirky micro-nation in Rome with its own flag, passports, and even UN observer status

How Many Countries Can You Visit in a Day?

• Rome lets you check off three countries in a single day—Italy, Vatican City, and (unofficially) the Sovereign Military Order of Malta

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Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll cover where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around the Eternal City.

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In this special bonus episode of Travel in 10, host David Brodie brings back a listener favorite from the archives: a first-time family trip to London, England. Originally recorded in 2011, this episode is packed with immersive sounds from the city and timeless recommendations for how to spend 3–4 days in London with kids—including markets, museums, restaurants, and iconic attractions.

This episode was previously only available as a video on our Voyascape YouTube Channel, but we’re bringing it back to the podcast feed due to popular demand.

• Explore London’s Best Markets:
• Old Spitalfields Market – An all-weather indoor market with food, fashion, and a great local vibe
• Brick Lane – Pop-up stalls, record vendors, vintage fashion, and the iconic Vibe Bar
• Columbia Road Flower Market – A Sunday staple with tons of personality
• The Sunday UpMarket – Local designers, vintage finds, and fantastic global street food
• Family-Friendly Museums:
• Museum of Childhood – A hands-on, free museum featuring toys from the 1800s to today
• British Museum – Antiquities from Egypt, Greece, and beyond
• National Gallery – See masterpieces by Van Gogh, Picasso, and more
• Top London Landmarks:
• London Eye – A 30-minute ride offering stunning views of the city
• Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, 10 Downing Street – All within walking distance
• Getting Around:
• Use an Oyster Card for access to the Tube and buses
• Classic double-decker buses and bike rentals also available

• W London – Leicester Square: Stylish and modern with a central location steps from Chinatown, Piccadilly Circus, and Trafalgar Square. A perfect base for your first visit.

• The Spice Market (formerly in W London) – Flavorful pan-Asian cuisine
• Jamie Oliver’s Catherine Street – A new flagship replacing the now-closed Jamie’s Fifteen
• Bocca di Lupo – Fantastic Italian fare in the theatre district
• Gelupo – Fresh gelato and imported Italian products
• Gordon Ramsay’s Plane Food at Heathrow – Elevated airport dining and gourmet picnic baskets to-go

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In Part 2 of our Travel in 10 London series, co-hosts David Brodie and Tim Johnson dive into where to eat, where to stay, and what you absolutely shouldn’t miss on your next visit to one of the world’s most iconic cities.

From rooftop pools and Michelin-starred hot dogs to hologram concerts and bustling food markets, this episode is packed with smart travel tips for repeat visitors ready to explore a deeper side of London.

🥘 Where to Eat in London

• Dishoom Shoreditch – A stylish, modern Indian restaurant inspired by Bombay cafés. Famous for its bacon naan roll breakfast and vibrant evening dining.
• Smokestak – A legendary East London BBQ spot with brisket, ribs, and an unforgettable sticky toffee pudding.
• Harrods Food Hall – A gourmet emporium that’s part food court, part culinary theatre—from fish and chips to Kobe beef and a Michelin-starred hot dog stand.
• Restaurant Gordon Ramsay – The world-famous chef’s original fine-dining flagship, still holding three Michelin stars since 1998.

🛏️ Where to Stay

• The Hoxton, Shoreditch – A boutique hotel with stylish rooms, a buzzy lobby bar, and prime East London vibes.
• Mondrian Shoreditch – Chic, design-forward luxury with a rare rooftop pool.
• Andaz London Liverpool Street – A Hyatt property blending high style with history, located on the former site of “Bedlam.”
• The Savoy – Timeless luxury in the West End, near theatres and cultural landmarks, with impeccable service and heritage charm.

🌟 Can’t-Miss Experiences

• Borough Market – London’s most beloved food market, bursting with artisan eats, gourmet produce, and street food.
• ABBA Voyage – A state-of-the-art, holographic concert experience in a custom-built stadium. A truly unforgettable night out.

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In this week’s episode of Travel in 10, co-hosts David Brodie and Tim Johnson explore what to do on your second (or third!) trip to London, England. If you’ve already checked Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey off your list, this episode dives deeper—exploring the city’s creative corners, lesser-known museums, and one-of-a-kind experiences.

From the street art of Shoreditch to the war bunkers of Winston Churchill, this is your essential guide to uncovering London beyond the tourist trail.

• Shoreditch Uncovered – Why this East London neighborhood is perfect for return visitors:
• Cutting-edge art, fashion, and nightlife
• A visit to Boxpark Shoreditch, a pop-up market of food stalls, bars, and shops made from shipping containers
• Street art walking tours, including murals by Banksy and insights from local graffiti artists
• Tim’s Favorite Hidden Museums:
• The Crime Museum at New Scotland Yard – A rare and haunting collection usually closed to the public. Original Jack the Ripper letters, counterfeit printing plates, and historic murder weapons.
• Churchill War Rooms – The underground wartime HQ of Britain’s WWII leadership. Walk through the map room, Churchill’s personal bedroom, and experience a powerful look at history in motion.
• Tate Modern – Why even non-art lovers should experience one of the world’s best modern art museums. Housed in a massive converted power station and offering free entry.

• Travelers returning to London for a second (or third) time
• Business travelers with time to explore
• Anyone curious about art, history, or London's local culture
• Fans of hidden gems and offbeat attractions

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This week on Travel in 10, co-hosts David Brodie and Tim Johnson take you to Sydney, Australia—a city where golden beaches meet global cuisine, where the Sydney Opera House glows against a skyline of steel, and where ferry rides, bush tucker tours, and surf lessons are all just part of a typical day.

With decades of travel experience between them and firsthand stories from multiple visits—including one trip they shared together—David and Tim offer a traveler’s-eye view of one of the world’s most vibrant and liveable cities.

• The best ways to experience the Sydney Opera House—from performances to fine dining at Bennelong and budget-friendly bites at House Canteen
• Why Circular Quay is the perfect home base for exploring the city’s icons like the Harbour Bridge, Royal Botanic Garden, and ferry terminals
• Climbing 1,300+ steps on the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb for the most epic views of the skyline
• Riding the ferry to Camp Cove for a beach break with a skyline view—Tim’s personal favorite “Can’t Miss” in Sydney
• Snorkeling in the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve and Shelly Beach for a truly unique way to see Sydney’s marine life
• A deeper look at Aboriginal culture through the Bush Tucker Tour in the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Art Gallery of New South Wales
• Watching a live rugby or Aussie rules football match—because Sydney’s sports fans are in a league of their own

• The Langham Sydney – Five-star luxury with personalized service in The Rocks
• Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour – Soak in skyline views from one of the world’s best bathtubs
• Sydney Harbour Marriott – Steps from Circular Quay, perfect for views of the Opera House
• Four Points by Sheraton Sydney Central – Mid-range comfort with access to Surrey Hills and Spice Alley
• Ovolo Woolloomooloo – A boutique Australian brand blending style, creativity, and location

• Bennelong – Fine dining inside the Opera House with views to match
• House Canteen – Budget-friendly eats with a front-row seat to the Harbour
• Sydney Fish Market – A classic waterfront lunch spot with some of the freshest seafood in Australia
• Long Chim – Tim and David’s top pick for Thai street food meets upscale vibes
• Spice Alley – A must-visit for Pan Asian street food lovers in Surrey Hills

• David’s Pick: Snorkeling in the heart of the city at Cabbage Tree Bay
• Tim’s Pick: Riding ferries from Circular Quay to hidden beaches like Camp Cove, where you can swim with a skyline view

Listen on:

This week on Travel in 10, David Brodie and Tim Johnson explore one of the most dynamic and endlessly fascinating cities in the world—Tokyo. From centuries-old temples to ultra-modern skyscrapers, Michelin-starred ramen counters to vending machines selling t-shirts, Tokyo is a city where every block is a new adventure.

David reflects on launching the podcast while living in Tokyo in 2005, and Tim brings his insights from a recent visit to the Japanese capital.

Sensoji Temple

• Tokyo’s oldest temple in the heart of Asakusa, surrounded by traditional shops and street food.

Shibuya Crossing

• The world’s busiest pedestrian intersection—Tokyo’s neon-fueled energy in one epic crosswalk.

Itoya Stationery Store

• A 12-story stationery wonderland in Ginza with a rooftop herb garden and hard-to-find writing tools.

Muji Flagship

• Explore minimalist Japanese design at its finest at this flagship Ginza location.

NHK Studio Park

• Try your hand at being a Japanese news anchor and explore the quirky world of Japanese television.

Ritz-Carlton Tokyo

• Luxury above the clouds—beginning on the 45th floor with panoramic skyline views.

Shangri-La Tokyo

• Upscale and serene, located right at Tokyo Station for seamless access.

Park Hyatt Tokyo

• As seen in Lost in Translation, a serene luxury escape in Shinjuku.

Hyatt Centric Ginza

• Boutique vibes in a former newspaper office with nods to Tokyo’s media legacy.

Book & Bed

• Sleep in a bookstore at this quirky, capsule-style hotel for book lovers.

Tim’s Pick:

• Catch a baseball game in Tokyo—it’s a high-energy, cultural spectacle unlike anywhere else.

David’s Pick:

• Head to the Mori Art Museum for incredible exhibitions and the best city views in Roppongi Hills.

Listen on:

This week on Travel in 10, David Brodie and Tim Johnson take you to one of the most atmospheric cities in the world—Edinburgh, Scotland. From the storied stones of Edinburgh Castle to hidden whisky cellars and haggis counters, this episode is packed with timeless charm, fascinating history, and hearty Scottish fare.

Whether you're planning your first visit or looking to return to your ancestral roots, this guide covers the essential stops, tastes, and tales that make Edinburgh unforgettable.

Walking the Royal Mile

• Discover why this stretch from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood is the city’s cultural and historic backbone, featuring everything from bagpipers to whisky tastings.

Eating in Edinburgh

• Tim and David share their favorite places to try haggis—including the Haggis Box at the Scottish Storytelling Centre—and classic meals at both the iconic The Witchery by the Castle and pulled pork staple Oink.
• Scottish Whisky Experience: A theme-park-style ride and immersive tasting inside one of the world’s largest Scotch whisky collections.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh

• From the luxury of The Balmoral to the boutique style of 100 Princes Street and modern elegance at the W Edinburgh, there’s a perfect place for every traveler.

Genealogy Travel Tips

• Discover how to tap into free genealogy research services across Scotland’s libraries and uncover your ancestral connections.

Can’t-Miss Spot

• A visit to Deacon Brodie’s Tavern, named after the real-life inspiration behind Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde—and maybe a distant relative!
• Scottish Storytelling Centre: Learn about the power of oral traditions and immerse yourself in Scotland’s folklore heritage—perhaps with a bowl of haggis from the on-site café.

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