Today we’re uncovering one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on the planet - Orlando, Florida. Orlando is the most visited destination in the USA, and after listening to this episode, you’ll understand why.

It’s the theme park capital of the world, home to seven of the world’s top theme parks. From Magic Kingdom to Universal Studios, there's something for everyone.

And there’s a brand new theme park opening in May 2025, Universal’s Epic Universe. It’s set to feature over 50 attractions, entirely new lands, including the much-anticipated Super Nintendo World, where guests can step into the world of Mario Kart and Yoshi’s Adventure.

My first guest today knows a thing or two about these parks - Katie Ellison is a content creator who has visited Orlando countless times with her three children. She’ll take us on a whirlwind through her top picks of Disney’s parks. She’ll also share her favourite places to chill after a busy day at the parks - because as you’ll hear, Orlando isn’t just about the theme parks. It’s got beautiful green spaces, cute neighbourhoods, a really burgeoning food scene…and that’s where our next guests come in - travel content creators Ryan and Jade from Live the Dash. They recently took a trip to Orlando where they skipped the theme parks entirely, and focussed on everything else the city has to offer.

They’ll show us just how diverse Orlando is as a destination, whether it’s zooming across the headwaters on an airboat ride or kayaking down crystal clear rivers, they tell us how they fell in love with Orlando’s natural beauty.

So, whether you're planning a theme park-packed family trip or looking to discover the hidden gems of Orlando, this episode will shine a light on everything you need to know.

Katie’s Destination Recap:

• Magic Kingdom Park
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom
• Disney’s Boardwalk
• Disney Springs
• Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Universal Islands of Adventure
• Universal Studios Florida
• Universal CityWalk
• Universal Volcano Bay
• Winter Park
• Celebration
• WonderWorks

Ryan & Jade’s:

• Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
• Courtyard Orlando Lake Buena Vista at Marriott Village
• Dezerland Park
• Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
• Boggy Creek Airboat Rides
• Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
• Orlando Eye at ICON Park
• The Ravenous Pig, Winter Park
• The Greenery Creamery

If you’re inspired to explore more, head over to VisitOrlando.com where you’ll find all the travel tips, deals, and information you need to plan the perfect Orlando holiday. You can also make an appointment with an Orlando Vacation Planner for free, personalised holiday planning suggestions, via phone, email or Whatsapp.

And if you’d like to hear even more about Orlando, tune in to my Fantastic Florida Destination Special from a couple of seasons back, where Orlando is a big focus too.

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Today, I’m thrilled to have comedian, history buff, and all-around legend, Al Murray, joining us on the show. Al is one of the UK’s most beloved comedians, best known for his character ‘The Pub Landlord’ – a hilarious, patriotic pub owner who’s become an iconic figure in British comedy. His career has spanned over three decades, with award-winning comedy specials, TV shows, and even political satire where he actually ran for office in character!

Beyond his comedy, though, Al has a real passion for history and travel – two themes that run deep through our conversation today.

Together, we embark on a journey through some fascinating and surprising destinations that have left a mark on him. From the serene beauty of Alderney in the Channel Islands to the rugged coasts of Connemara in Ireland, and even the mystical temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia – Al’s love for adventure and curiosity about the past come through in each of his travel chapters. So let’s buckle up and get started.

Destination Recap:

• Alderney, Channel Islands, England
• Guernsey, Channel Islands
• Ervallagh, Connemara, Ireland
• Roundstone Bay and Island boat trips, Connemara, Ireland
• Osnabrück, Germany
• Grottes de Gargas, France
• Angkor Wat, Cambodia
• Siem Reap, Cambodia
• Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• Normandy, France
• Dubai
• The moon

And I talk about Lesante Cape, Zakynthos, Greece

Guv Island is currently on tour across the UK and Ireland, tickets are available here.

Arnhem: Black Tuesday is out now

Thanks so much for listening today. If you'd like to hear more from the podcast don’t forget to hit subscribe, or if you use Apple Podcasts to press follow so that a new episode lands in your podcast app each week. If you want to be the first find out who is joining me on next week’s episode come and follow me on Instagram I’m @hollyrubenstein, and you’ll also find me on TikTok - I’d love to hear from you.

And if you can't want until then remember there’s the first 12 seasons to catch up on, that's over 125 episodes to keep you busy there. Don't forget that all the destinations mentioned by my guests are included in the episode show notes here on your podcast app, and listed on my website, thetraveldiariespodcast.com

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On today’s bonus destination special episode we are bringing to life one of America’s most iconic destinations, its capital city and somewhere everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime - Washington DC.

Now, when you think of Washington, DC, what comes to mind? The towering obelisk of the Washington Monument? The sprawling grandeur of the Lincoln Memorial? The iconic steps of the U.S. Capitol or the regal beauty of the White House, framed perfectly by the National Mall? These landmarks are like touchstones of American history, and all within walking distance. But they also offer a striking juxtaposition to what DC is today: a city that is constantly evolving, modernising, and embracing diversity at every corner.

DC is a city bursting with energy. Colourful neighbourhoods like Georgetown with its cobblestone streets and boutique shops, and the trendy U Street Corridor, once known as 'Black Broadway,' where jazz music still pulses in the air are wonderful to stroll around. And it’s really grown into a bit of a culinary hub, too. From Ethiopian spots in Adams Morgan to Michelin-starred restaurants pushing boundaries in neighbourhoods like Shaw, DC has become a real food lover's city.

For those travelling on a budget, there are so many free experiences on offer in the city. Whether you’re exploring the Smithsonian museums, taking a stroll along the National Mall, or taking in the city's beautiful green spaces, DC will leave you with unforgettable memories, without draining your wallet.

DC will host WorldPride 2025 and the city will become a global hub of celebration, inclusivity, and pride, welcoming visitors from around the world. To help guide us through the city, I’m joined today by Ryan Bos, head of the Capital Pride Alliance.

Even if you’re listening after the glitter of WorldPride has settled, don’t worry—this episode is packed with tips and insights that will make your visit to DC memorable at any time of year.

Destination Recap:

• Smithsonian Museums
• The White House
• Capitol Building
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Museum of American History
• National Gallery of Art
• National Museum of Natural History
• Annie’s Paramount Steakhouse
• ThreeFifty Bakery and Coffee Bar
• Ben’s Chili Bowl – The original Ben’s Chili Bowl is located at 1213 U Street NW, in the U Street Corridor area of the Northwest quadrant.
• National Zoo
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial
• National Arboretum

If you enjoyed this episode and feel inspired to visit DC, then head to washington.org

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