With a career spanning decades at the very heart of music history - working with The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, T. Rex, U2 and more - BP Fallon has witnessed some of the most iconic moments in rock’n’roll firsthand.

In this conversation, he shares his five favourite gigs from a lifetime of extraordinary experiences, offering vivid stories from stages, studios and concerts around the world.

From unforgettable performances to behind-the-scenes encounters, this episode is a front-row seat to music history as seen by the guru BP Fallon.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide. This award winning podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After staying in a luxury treehouse in France, I began to wonder what Ireland had to offer beyond the traditional hotel experience. The answer? Quite a lot. In this episode of Travel Tales with Fergal, I explore four truly unusual stays around the country — each offering something distinctive, memorable and a little out of the ordinary.

First, I revisit my summer stay at Trinity College Dublin Rooms. Available from May to August, the student accommodation within the historic college grounds offers a rare chance to wake up in the heart of Dublin, surrounded by tranquillity yet steps from the city’s buzz. There’s the novelty of morning coffee trucks in the square, after-hours calm once the day visitors leave, and of course the chance to explore the iconic Book of Kells and the magnificent Long Room Library. Visit https://www.tcd.ie

Next, I head to Mount Congreve Gardens in Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford. An 18th-century estate with extraordinary gardens, it offers everything from off-grid bell tents to stylish eco-cabins with hot tubs. I stayed in one of the atmospheric two-bedroom gate lodges — rich, gothic interiors, antique beds and velvet armchairs. With after-hours access to the gardens, direct links to the Waterford Greenway, and easy reach of the Comeragh Mountains and Mahon Falls, it’s an ideal blend of heritage and outdoor adventure. Visit https://mountcongreve.com

From there, it’s on to the forest escape that is Cabu by the Lakes in Co. Cavan. Set on the shores of Lough Oughter, these woodland cabins range from cosy one-beds to larger barn houses with hot tubs. Think wood-burning stoves, lakeside views, outdoor saunas and cold plunges tucked among the trees. With boating, kayaking and forest walks on your doorstep - and new cabins launching in 2026 - it’s a grown-up retreat designed for switching off. Visit https://holidays.cabu.co.uk

Finally, I visited Ballygarry Estate Hotel & Spa in Tralee, Co. Kerry, where I stayed in one of their distinctive Iglucraft woodland cabins. These Nordic-style pods combine craftsmanship and comfort, all set against the backdrop of the Slieve Mish Mountains. Family-run for three generations, the estate is also deeply committed to sustainability, with extensive rewilding, native tree planting and scenic walking trails woven through the grounds. Visit https://www.ballygarry.com

From college cloisters to woodland hideaways, lakeside cabins to historic estates, this episode highlights four unforgettable Irish stays that prove you don’t have to leave the country to experience something truly different. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next short break, this one is for you.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conor shares his professional journey through the hospitality industry, including time spent working internationally in exotic places like Australia and Bermuda, before returning to Ireland to lead one of the city’s most distinctive hotels.

He discusses the ethos behind The Dylan and what it means for the hotel to join Ireland’s Blue Book, the esteemed collection celebrating the very best of Irish hospitality.

Tucked just off Baggot Street, behind that striking red-brick Victorian façade dating back to 1900, the Dylan has quietly built a reputation as one of the capital’s most distinctive places to stay combining rich heritage with a confident, contemporary Irish design identity.

Located just a short stroll from Grafton Street and close to the Aviva Stadium and RDS, the Dylan offers the best of both worlds - peaceful surroundings with the city’s cultural highlights within easy reach. Guests can even explore the neighbourhood through a curated self-guided walking tour.

The conversation also explores Conor’s recommendations for visitors to Dublin - from must-see cultural spots to his personal favourite hidden gems in the southside of the city.

This is an insightful and engaging episode for anyone interested in travel, hospitality, and the stories behind Ireland’s great hotels.

I love the Blue Book because they are generally family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. You really get to see Irish hospitality at its best and the properties are generally old country houses, so you get a real sense of the history of the area you are staying in. A Blue Book voucher would always be my top travel gift recommendation and their website is https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie.

Check out the Dylan Hotel here https://www.dylan.ie

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by local expert David Kestens, who helps bring the Aletsch Arena to life. We talk about the car-free mountain villages of Riederalp, Bettmeralp, and Fiescheralp. David gives us an insiders guide to the insiders secret resort.

I found myself deeply drawn to the Aletsch Arena, not just for its scenery, but for the feeling it creates. We also explore what the region offers throughout the year, from peaceful alpine walks in summer to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months.

The Aletsch Arena is home to the Great Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, and forms part of one of Switzerland’s most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Surrounded by more than forty peaks rising over four thousand metres including the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, and the Eiger. It’s a place that naturally encourages you to slow down and take a breath.

We also chat about Les Marécottes, and about what is possibly Switzerland’s most famous ski resort, Verbier. A place that’s very personal to me. I’ve visited Verbier many times over the years and it’s where I first learned to ski.

Join me as we explore why the Aletsch Arena, and the wider Valais region, are among the most special places to visit, from the stunning mountain villages to the wonderful train, and discover why they may just earn a place on your Switzerland bucket list.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.

Stays

Marecottes - https://www.zoo-alpin.ch/fr/zoo-boutique-hotel

Buttmeralps - https://www.sporting-bettmeralp.ch

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share

soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Andalusia cities of Seville and Cordoba are magnificent but there are small villages and towns between these cities are real gems full of character including Alcalá de Guadaíra, Cazalla de la Sierra, Almodovar del Rio, Palma Del Rio and Montilla.

Stays

Cazalla

de la Sierra - Casa Rural Las Navezuelas

Alcalá

de Guadaíra - Hotel Oromana

Activities

Stargazing activity (Sierra Morena is a certified

Starlight

Destination) - https://naturspirit.es/categoria-producto/astroturismo/

El Viso del Alcor - Olive oil tasting at Basilippo

Cycling along the Sierra Morena Greenway, which is part of the upgraded Camino Vertical and I would highly recommend Restaurante Batán de las Monjas for food.

Palma Del Rio - Palacio Portcarrero

Almodovar Del Rio – Old Moorish Castle to visit from

Games of Thrones

Montilla – Visit to local winery Alvear 1729

Wine tasting at Bodegas Colonias de Galeón

Active Tourism in the Province of Seville

https://www.turismosevilla.org/en

How to get there

Aer

Lingus flies to Seville three times per week until 17 May 2026. Fares are available from €50.99 each way, including taxes fees and carrier charges. For more see https://www.aerlingus.com

Check out my 2 part Cordoba Special series with Christina Ybarra of Palacio Portocarrero in Palma del Rio, Cordoba, Andalusia who talks about the fascinating

history of this area from the Romans to the Moors to modern times and Paco Gonzalez as he tells us about the best places to visit in Cordoba and he guides

us through the beautiful countryside, villages, forts, palaces, olive farms and vineyards around that stunning area between Seville and Cordoba.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.

Fergal

O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share

soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram

@traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook

@traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter

@FergalTravel

YouTube

@traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Austria is the number one ski destination for Irish skiers — and once you visit, it’s easy to see why. Great value, reliable snow, great modern infrastructure, the best après-ski in the alps, and resorts for every level of skier.

I am just back from a family ski trip to one of the real gems of the Austrian Alps: Zell am See–Kaprun and I was bowled over by the beauty of these beautiful traditional towns sandwiched between the mountains and the lake.

With over 140 kilometres of pistes on the Schmittenhöhe mountain overlooking Lake Zell, and year-round snow on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, this area really has it all including access to the huge Skicircus Saalbach via the Alpin Card.

So whether you’re here for the scenery, the snow, or that unbeatable Austrian ski culture, Zell am See–Kaprun is a destination that truly delivers — and that’s exactly what I’ll be chatting with my ski expert guest Robsski today.

ABOUT ZELL AM SEE-KAPRUN

Glacier, mountains and lake – the all-year round destination of Zell am See-Kaprun in Austria brings together the diversity of the Alps. In the unique natural paradise at the edge of the Hohe Tauern National Park sports enthusiasts, active holidaymakers, families and those seeking relaxation will discover a wide range of experiences in summer and in winter.

These include “TOP OF SALZBURG” on 3,029 metre on the Kitzsteinhorn, the only glacier ski resort in Salzburger Land, the Maiskogel family region, the panorama and family mountain Schmittenhöhe, Lake Zell and the multi-award winning 36-hole leading golf course.

In winter is Zell am See-Kaprun one of Austria’s most attractive winter sports regions. Snow enthusiasts can conquer a total of 408 kilometres of ski slopes including the glacier thanks to the ticket alliance Ski ALPIN CARD for the Skicircus area taking in the Kaprun, Zee Am Zee and Saalbach regions.

ZELL AM SEE-KAPRUN

https://www.zellamsee-kaprun.com/en

ACCOMMODATION: HOTEL TAUERNHOF**** IN KAPRUN

https://www.tauernhof-kaprun.at/en

SKI HIRE

https://www.bruendl.at

SKIING AT KITZSTEINHORN

Lunch at the new gletschermühle restaurant

 Visit TOP OF SALZBURG including National park Gallery, panoramic platforms and Cinema 3000

SKIING AT SCHMITTENHÖHE

At Schmittenhöhe visit the new “Kaiserblick” panoramic-platform (for free with your lift passes) and enjoy the views of 30 threethousand-metre-high peaks of Hohe Tauern mountain range

LUNCH at Restaurant Sonnkogel 

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide.

Please follow on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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I also go through other other options to do over the Christmas period inclusing River cruises on the Dabnube and Rhine, pre Christmas skiing in Austria and exploring warm countries like French Polyneia and Australia.

I have some great episodes coming on in January for Season 9 so if you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide.

Please follow on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ballygarry has recently been voted in the top 10 of the Irish Independent hotel awards, number 6 in the Tripadvisor awards and included recent Irish Examiner and Sunday Times Top 100 awards.

I recently stayed in the brand new Cabins on the hotel grounds and I chat to Pádraig about these stunning new cabins and the history of this renowned Kerry family run hotel.

Check out the Ballygarry Estate Hotel here https://www.ballygarry.com

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide.

Please follow on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Cian said to me “This book is the culmination of two years of hard work and a lifetime spent in Ireland. I’m lucky enough to travel to many places in the world, but it was a real treat to be able to be a tourist in Ireland. There’s plenty in the new Moon Guide to Ireland; there’s lots about places everyone will know about and lots about places that often get forgotten about”.

From dramatic cliffs and soaring mountains to lively cities and charming villages, local Irish author Cían Byrne reveals the magic of Ireland with Moon Ireland.

You can get the guide from here

https://www.moontravelguides.com/titles/cian-byrne/moon-ireland/9798886471427/

Follow Cian’s travels on his Instagram @Cianwrites

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conor’s work uncovers stories, characters, and passions that shaped hurling decades before the foundation of the GAA and long before the modern rules we know today.

Conor’s book traces how the game evolved and its surprising early similarities to rugby and why its spirit has endured for generations.

In this fiction book set in 19th century Ireland, Conor brings to life the communities, traditions, conflicts, and passions that shaped the sport long before it took its modern form. He tells us about a time when the big Anglo Irish landlords ruled with an iron fist and owned professional hurling teams to help flex their power.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide.

Hurling 1810 published and available from menmabooks.eu.

Please follow me on

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The Cordoba Region

Most tourists go to the cities like Seville, Cordoba, Granada and Malaga but there are small villages and towns between these cities are real gems full of character including Carmona and Ecija, Alcalá de Guadaíra, Cazalla de la Sierra, Almodovar del Rio, Palma Del Rio and Montilla.

Cordoba

The Mesquita - Once one of main cities in the ancient Arab world with one of the most famous mosques to rival Mecca

Guided tour of the Jewish Quarter, Roman bridge, Alcazar and Historic Centre of Córdoba

Equestrian show at the Royal Stables

Food Cordoba

Dinner at Taberna La Viuda

Lunch at La Cazuela de la Esparteria

Stays

Cordoba - Hotel Mezquita Center

Cazalla de la Sierra - Casa Rural Las Navezuelas

Alcalá de Guadaíra - Hotel Oromana

Activities

Palma Del Rio - Palacio Portcarrero

Almodovar Del Rio – Old Moorish Castle to visit from Games of

Thrones

Montilla – Visit to local winery Alvear 1729

Wine tasting at Bodegas Colonias de Galeón

Stargazing activity (Sierra Morena is a certified Starlight

Destination)

El Viso del Alcor - Olive oil tasting at Basilippo

Cycling along the Sierra Morena Greenway, which is part of the upgraded Camino Vertical

Check out my Cordoba Special Pt 1 with Christina Ybarra of Palacio Portocarrero in Palma del Rio, Cordoba, Andalusia, Spain.

How to get there

Aer Lingus flies to Seville three times per week until 17 May, 2026. Fares are available from €50.99 each way, including taxes fees and carrier charges. For more see  https://www.aerlingus.com

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide.

The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christina's story is a story of Andalusia taking in Roman, Moorish and Christian heritage, history, archaeology, architecture, culture and art.

Palma del Rio is a town with the most stunning countryside surrounded by orange groves between Seville and Cordoba once called “the garden of Andalucia” by a visiting Spanish King.

The Cordoba Region

Most tourists go to the cities like Seville, Cordoba, Granada and Malaga but there are small villages and towns between these cities are real gems full of character including Carmona and Ecija, Alcalá de Guadaíra, Cazalla de la Sierra, Almodovar del Rio, Palma Del Rio and Montilla.

The region is made for a road trip through fields filled with olive and orange grove and vineyards and many beautiful villages with old Moorish Alcazar forts and palaces in the Sierra Morena mountains.

@prodeturprovinciasevilla

Activities

Palacio Portcarrero

Almodovar Del Rio – Old Moorish Castle to visit from Games of Thrones

Montilla – Visit to local winery Alvear 1729

Wine tasting at Bodegas Colonias de Galeón

Stargazing activity (Sierra Morena is a certified Starlight Destination)

El Viso del Alcor - Olive oil tasting at Basilippo

Cycling along the Sierra Morena Greenway, which is part of the upgraded Camino Vertical

Cordoba

Once one of main cities in the ancient Arab world with one of the most famous mosques to rival Mecca – The Mesquita

Food Cordoba

Dinner at Taberna La Viuda

Lunch at La Cazuela de la Esparteria

Stays

Cordoba - Hotel Mezquita Center

Cazalla de la Sierra - Casa Rural Las Navezuelas

Alcalá de Guadaíra - Hotel Oromana

How to get there

Aer Lingus flies to Seville three times per week until 17 May, 2026. Fares are available from €50.99 each way, including taxes fees and carrier charges. For more see  https://www.aerlingus.com

Check out my Cordoba Special Pt 2 with guide Paco Gonzalez as he guides us through Cordoba and the beautiful countryside, villages, forts, palaces, olive farms and vineyards from Seville to Cordoba.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I am delighted for part 3 of my Belfast special series to have Barney Gribbin - Founder & Tour Guide of the If Buildings Could Talk tour

If Buildings Could Talk Tour reveals all the best kept secret stories wrapped up in the history of Belfast, so if you want a city tour that is a little off the beaten track and full of hidden stories, this is the tour for you. That’s because when you join Barney on this leisurely walk you are guaranteed to see and hear things about Belfast that most visitors will never be aware of. In fact, even to people born and bred in the city, many of Barney’s stories will come as a revelation.

I loved the city so much that I have made this into a three part special series so after this episode make sure to also check out episode 1 with great insider tips from travel writer Erin McCafferty and Belfast hotelier Melanie Harrison.

For more information on Belfast check https://visitbelfast.com and https://discovernorthernireland.com

Accomodation

The Harrison, 45 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 745630965 | www.chambersofdistinction.com| Twitter & Instagram: @harrison_belfast The Harrison

Activities

Black Taxi Tour with Blue Badge Guide Billy Scott,

Contact: +44 77 9860 2401 | www.touringaroundbelfast.com | X: @TouringBelfast

Titanic Museum Belfast

www.titanicbelfast.com | Instagram @titanicbelfast

Food

Deanes at Queens, 1 College Gardens, Belfast, BT9 6BQ |T: +44 28 9038 2111| https://www.michaeldeane.co.uk/deanes-at-queens/| Instagram @deanesatqueenbt9

Wolff Grill, Titanic Hotel, Queens Road, Belfast, BT3 9DT, T: +44 28 9508 2000 | www.titanichotelbelfast.com | X: @titanicbelfast | Instagram: titanichotelbelfast

Saga, 43 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 7495467341 | https://sagabelfast.com | Instagram: @sagabelfas

Coco, 7-11 Linenhall Street, Belfast, BT2 8AA | Tel: +44 2890311150 | www.cocobelfast.com | Instagram @cocobelfast_

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Melanie's hotel is the Harrison Chambers of Distinction which is located in the heart of the vibrant Queen’s Quarter of Belfast and is a restored, landmark Victorian merchants’ residence dating from 1879 designed to serve the culturally curious traveller.

This is a boutique hotel is curated by the charismatic and vivacious owner Michelle Harrison whose personality is reflected in the Victorian style where every room is different and often named and styled after artists reflecting the bohemian character and mischievous tongue in cheek humour of Melanie with eccentric curios and surprises and every corner and in every unique room.

Belfast feels like a young, vibrant city full of life with great food, nightlife, festivals and of course history. It feels like a city on the cusp of something special with lots of new hotels and bars opening and the Irish Fleadh coming there in 2026.

I loved the city so much that I have made this into a three part special series so after this episode make sure to also check out episode 1 with great insider tips from travel writer Erin McCafferty and the brilliant tour guide Barney Gribbin of the famous If Buildings Could Talk Tour. 

For more information on Belfast check https://visitbelfast.com and https://discovernorthernireland.com

Accomodation

The Harrison, 45 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 745630965 | www.chambersofdistinction.com| Twitter & Instagram: @harrison_belfast The Harrison

Activities

Black Taxi Tour with Blue Badge Guide Billy Scott,

Contact: +44 77 9860 2401 | www.touringaroundbelfast.com | X: @TouringBelfast

Titanic Museum Belfast

www.titanicbelfast.com | Instagram @titanicbelfast

Food

Deanes at Queens, 1 College Gardens, Belfast, BT9 6BQ |T: +44 28 9038 2111| https://www.michaeldeane.co.uk/deanes-at-queens/| Instagram @deanesatqueenbt9

Wolff Grill, Titanic Hotel, Queens Road, Belfast, BT3 9DT, T: +44 28 9508 2000 | www.titanichotelbelfast.com | X: @titanicbelfast | Instagram: titanichotelbelfast

Saga, 43 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 7495467341 | https://sagabelfast.com | Instagram: @sagabelfas

Coco, 7-11 Linenhall Street, Belfast, BT2 8AA | Tel: +44 2890311150 | www.cocobelfast.com | Instagram @cocobelfast_

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

--

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Belfast feels like a young, vibrant city full of life with great food, nightlife, festivals and of course history. It feels like a city on the cusp of something special with lots of new hotels and bars opening and the Irish Fleadh coming there in 2026.

I loved the city so much that I have made this into a three part special series so after this episode make sure to also check out episode 2 with great insider tips from the Harrison hotel owner Melanie Harrison and the brilliant tour guide Barney Gribbin of the famous If Buildings Could Talk Tour. 

For more information on Belfast check https://visitbelfast.com and https://discovernorthernireland.com

Accomodation

The Harrison, 45 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 745630965 | www.chambersofdistinction.com| Twitter & Instagram: @harrison_belfast The Harrison

Activities

Black Taxi Tour with Blue Badge Guide Billy Scott,

Contact: +44 77 9860 2401 | www.touringaroundbelfast.com | X: @TouringBelfast

Titanic Museum Belfast

www.titanicbelfast.com | Instagram @titanicbelfast

Food

Deanes at Queens, 1 College Gardens, Belfast, BT9 6BQ |T: +44 28 9038 2111| https://www.michaeldeane.co.uk/deanes-at-queens/| Instagram @deanesatqueenbt9

Wolff Grill, Titanic Hotel, Queens Road, Belfast, BT3 9DT, T: +44 28 9508 2000 | www.titanichotelbelfast.com | X: @titanicbelfast | Instagram: titanichotelbelfast

Saga, 43 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 7495467341 | https://sagabelfast.com | Instagram: @sagabelfas

Coco, 7-11 Linenhall Street, Belfast, BT2 8AA | Tel: +44 2890311150 | www.cocobelfast.com | Instagram @cocobelfast_

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

--

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Ben shares his tips for the perfect cross-country road trip, why the architecture and design work of the 50s and 60s still speaks to us today, and why America is still a magical place to get a little bit lost.

There's no doubting the beauty of the design and architecture of the '50s and '60s America. From bright teal, sun-splashed and gleaming motel signs to cherry red diner seats, these two decades have held America’s attention for 75 years.

American photographer Ben Geier has spent the last decade traveling the United States to capture the images of his country's once vibrant and now abandoned treasures in his new book Viewing Hours. Evoking a sense of nostalgia and solitude, Geier’s work highlights the modernist architecture, minimalist design, and muted colour palette of the mid-century. 

Check out Ben’s website here https://www.bengeier.com/

Get View Hours here https://trope.com/products/viewing-hours

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We chatted about the wonders of island hopping to Korcula, Vis, Hvar and Brac with the Jadrolinija ferry company.

We discuss how each island and town has its own personality that makes this a perfect country to tour by land or boat.

Deirdre also tells us how Croatia has become a hugely popular destination for festivals including the Love International Festival in Tisno.

We cover a lot of ground, so this is the perfect introduction to Croatia if you are trying to decide where to visit next in this wonderful country full of history, culture and the most gorgeous water to swim or just chill by.

For more information

https://croatia.hr/en-gb

https://visitkorcula.eu

https://visitdubrovnik.hr/

https://visitsplit.com/en/1/welcome-to-split

Recommended Ferry for island hopping

https://www.jadrolinija.hr/en

@croatiafulloflife

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Erin flew from Dublin to Bristol with Aer Lingus and she also talks about combining a trip to Bath with Bristol, with both cities just 20 minutes apart by train. Erin also talks about the history of Bristol and recommends a Banksy tour.

Bath is an elegant city full of traditional heritage and has been a wellbeing destination since Roman times. Bath has UNESCO World Heritage status and hosts the 24th annual Jane Austen Festival this week from the 12th to the 21stSeptember celebrating the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen this year.

For more information on the festival to go https://janeausten.co.uk/

For more information on Bath go to https://visitbath.co.uk

Erin stayed at the Eight in Bath https://visitbath.co.uk

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Truffles have a near mythical place in the lore of European food lovers and we discuss all things truffles from their history dating back to the ancient Egyptians and the Romans all the way to Napoleon. We discuss how to grow them, hunt for them, eat them and the best wines to drink with them.

Serge owns the stunning Baron de la Truffe farm beside the gorgeous medieval town of Chinon and he gives great insider tips of where to visit in this lovely part of the Loire valley in France. For more details go to https://barondelatruffe.com/en

The Touraine region in the Loire Valley in France is a magical place of fairy tale chateaux, French renaissance gardens, gastronomic restaurants, historic royal towns and world renowned vineyards.

Starting in 2026 Aer Lingus Regional, exclusively operated by Emerald Airlines, will fly the only direct service between Tours and Dublin from Saturday, 6th of June and operating until 29th of August, the service will operate once weekly on Saturdays.

Places to visit & Stay

https://www.tastingwithnivard.co.uk

https://www.chateau-nitray.fr

https://chateaudenoizay.com

https://loirevalleylodges.com

https://www.chateaudurivau.com

https://www.azay-le-rideau.fr/en

Tours - https://www.labe-hotel.com/en/

Chinon - https://barondelatruffe.com/en

https://www.chateaudecandes.com/en/

Vineyard lunch https://www.domainedegrosbois.com/

Lunch and wine trip on the Loire - https://les-pecheries-ligeriennes.fr/restaurant-la-cabane-a-matelot.html

This is the final episode of Season 7 and you can listen back to nearly 100 episodes full of travel stories, location specials, activity specials and insider tips.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Welcome to part 2 of my Loire special series and I’m delighted to say I have the wonderful Geoffrey Vivard of https://www.tastingwithnivard.co.uk/

The Loire is all about locally sourced food and it is famous around the world for its wines and cheeses, so we are lucky to have the previous cheesemonger for the last Queen of England and Clarence House, Geoffrey Nivard to guide us through the best cheese and wines of the Loire.

I got to experience Geoffrey do a cheese and wine tasing at stunning the stunning https://www.chateau-nitray.fr on my recent trip to the Loire. 

Starting in 2026 Aer Lingus Regional, exclusively operated by Emerald Airlines, will fly the only direct service between Tours and Dublin from Saturday, 6th of June and operating until 29th of August, the service will operate once weekly on Saturdays.

Places to visit & Stay

https://www.tastingwithnivard.co.uk

https://www.chateau-nitray.fr

https://chateaudenoizay.com

https://loirevalleylodges.com

https://www.chateaudurivau.com

https://www.azay-le-rideau.fr/en

Tours - https://www.labe-hotel.com/en/

Chinon - https://barondelatruffe.com/en

https://www.chateaudecandes.com/en/

Vineyard lunch https://www.domainedegrosbois.com/

Lunch and wine trip on the Loire - https://les-pecheries-ligeriennes.fr/restaurant-la-cabane-a-matelot.html

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A magical place of fairy tale chateaux, French renaissance gardens, gastronomic restaurants, historic royal towns and vineyards of Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc.

Touraine is said to be blessed by the gods, cherished by the Kings and pampered by Mother Nature. It is said to be the birthplace of the French way of life in a setting dominated by the majestic river Loire, which is listed as part of World Heritage by UNESCO.

I loved the Loire so much that I am going to do a 3 part Loire series over the next few weeks, so keep an eye out next Tuesday for my interview with Geoffrey Nivard, once cheesemonger to the Queen and King of England. And the following week I will interview Serge Desazars, Baron de la Truffe, owner of the largest organic truffle farms in France.

But today I am delighted to have Irish food and travel award winning ournalist Jordan Mooney to share her memories of visiting enchanting chateaux like Rivau, Azay Le Rideau, Noizay, Nitray and Cande. We talk about the great towns to visit like Tours, Chinon, the Royal city of Loches and Chedigny. And the wonderful local food and wine of the famous Touraine, Loire region in France.

Starting in 2026 Aer Lingus Regional, exclusively operated by Emerald Airlines, will fly the only direct service between Tours and Dublin from Saturday, 6th of June and operating until 29th of August, the service will operate once weekly on Saturdays.

Places to visit & Stay

https://www.tastingwithnivard.co.uk

https://www.chateau-nitray.fr

https://chateaudenoizay.com

https://loirevalleylodges.com

https://www.chateaudurivau.com

https://www.azay-le-rideau.fr/en

Tours - https://www.labe-hotel.com/en/

Chinon - https://barondelatruffe.com/en

https://www.chateaudecandes.com/en/

Vineyard lunch https://www.domainedegrosbois.com/

Lunch and wine trip on the Loire - https://les-pecheries-ligeriennes.fr/restaurant-la-cabane-a-matelot.html

Follow @jordanrmooney on Insta fopr great food and travel stories.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Clare Island stands guard at the entrance to Clew Bay, off Ireland’s western Atlantic coast along the Wild Atlantic Way. For almost two centuries, the island’s Lighthouse has been a nautical landmark perched high on the craggy cliffs, watching over Achill, Westport and beyond. Once a safe haven for sailors, this heritage property now offers a sanctuary of a different kind. This architecturally majestic, listed building has been lovingly transformed into fully catered, luxury accommodation, complemented by magnificent sea views and an inspiring, natural environment.

 For more information on the Clare Island Lighthouse check out https://www.clareislandlighthouse.com

I love the Blue Book because they are generally family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. You really get to see Irish hospitality at its best and the properties are generally old country houses, so you get a real sense of the history of the area you are staying in. A Blue Book voucher would always be my top travel gift recommendation and their website is https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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I stayed at the Hotel AEQUORA Lanzarote Suites https://slasuites.com

For more information on the Canary Islands -

Canary Islands Tourism Board: www.hellocanaryislands.com 

Fuerteventura Tourism Board: http://www.visitfuerteventura.es/

Lanzarote Tourism Board: https://turismolanzarote.com/

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I stayed at the R2 Rio Calma Hotel https://r2hotels.com/en/hotel/r2-rio-calma-hotel-spa-conference-en/

For more information on the Canary Islands -

Canary Islands Tourism Board: www.hellocanaryislands.com 

 Fuerteventura Tourism Board: http://www.visitfuerteventura.es/

Lanzarote Tourism Board: https://turismolanzarote.com/

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Madeira is a lush green tropical mountainous island with towns built dramatically into the hills going up from the sea with breathtaking landscapes, verdant volcanic mountains, lush flower garden and banana trees in very nook and cranny. Recommended stay https://suitehoteledenmarportobay.com-hotel.com/

#visitmadeira

#madeiranowordsneeded

#madeirabelongstoall

#madeiraisland

For further information about Madeira: https://visitmadeira.com

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Get There

Conor Power was a guest of Brittany Ferries https://www.brittany-ferries.ie, with regular year-round sailings from Cork to Roscoff. A seven-night self-catered stay on board a Salsa B, which sleeps up to 12 people, in October 2024, starting and ending at Le Boat’s base in Messac, costs from €137 pp / €1,649 per boat. For the same boat departing 11 April 2025, it’s €245 pp/ €2,956 per boat. No boating license or experience necessary. See https://www.emeraldstar.ie for trip details around Europe. 

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Armagh is recognised as the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland and holds a unique connection to St. Patrick. It was here that he established his first stone church in 445 AD, and it remains the only city in the world with two cathedrals named in his honour. The city celebrates his legacy year-round, but particularly during the Home of St. Patrick Festival (March 9-17, which blends tradition with modern celebrations. For more information go to https://www.donnafoxtours.com and https://visitarmagh.com

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The author writes in her debut novel about her journey from a busy American life to an idyllic one in northern Italy where she started a new life in Monforte d'Alba, a picturesque town in Piemonte restoring a centuries-old farmhouse. So if you, like me, loved “A Year in Provence” then this book about travel, moving abroad, cultural immersion, food and personal transformation is for you. We chat about the dream of retiring to a village in another country and everthing that comes with that move. For more information on Barbra and her great new good do to https://www.barbaraboyleauthor.com

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Ed Finn as he transports us to the wonderful towns of Gstaad and Interlaken in Switzerland and regales us with all this stunning part of Switzerland has to offer. 

Listen next to Part 1 of this Swiss Special "Skiing in Gstaad" with Rob “Robsski” Rees. Gstaad has an understated classy charm but the real treasure is its stunning, magical Alpine landscape and some of the best skiing in the Alps.

Information on Switzerland

Gstaad Holiday Region For more information on Gstaad, visit gstaad.ch

Interlaken Holiday RegionFor more information on Interlaken, visit interlaken.ch

Travel Switzerland

Travel Switzerland’s Swiss Travel Pass offers international visitors to Switzerland unlimited travel on consecutive days across the rail, bus and boat network, plus scenic routes (seat reservation fees apply) and local trams and buses in around 90 towns and cities. It also includes the Swiss Museum Pass, which grants free entry to 500 museums and exhibitions, visit travelswitzerland.com

GoldenPass Belle Epoque from Zweisimmen to Saanenmöser

The GoldenPass MOB Belle Epoque train that runs on the Zweisimmen-Montreux line offers a journey with a romantic, retro-style ambience. Its coaches are inspired by the Golden Mountain Pullman Express from the 1930s, a luxury train in the style of Orient Express. The current train is a reproduction of the Belle Epoque style of its predecessors. mob.ch/en/stories/belle-epoque 

Golfhotel Les Hauts de Gstaad****,

Saanenmöser

golfhotel.ch/en

Lunch at the Lochstafel mountain restaurant lochstafel.ch

Lunch at Miradi in Gstaad's newest hotel, The Mansard miirohotels.com/the-mansard

Dinner at the Restaurant La Gare Bernerhof in Gstaad bernerhof-gstaad.ch/en/gastronomy/restaurant-la-gare

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The town has an understated classy charm but the real treasure is its stunning, magical Alpine landscape and nature and some of the best skiing in the Alps.

Check out part 2 next week when Irish broadcaster of the year Ed Finn tells us all about the wonderful winter activities in Gstaad and Interlaken.

Information on Switzerland

Gstaad Holiday Region For more information on Gstaad, visit gstaad.ch

Interlaken Holiday RegionFor more information on Interlaken, visit interlaken.ch

Travel Switzerland

Travel Switzerland’s Swiss Travel Pass offers international visitors to Switzerland unlimited travel on consecutive days across the rail, bus and boat network, plus scenic routes (seat reservation fees apply) and local trams and buses in around 90 towns and cities. It also includes the Swiss Museum Pass, which grants free entry to 500 museums and exhibitions, visit travelswitzerland.com

GoldenPass Belle Epoque from Zweisimmen to Saanenmöser

The GoldenPass MOB Belle Epoque train that runs on the Zweisimmen-Montreux line offers a journey with a romantic, retro-style ambience. Its coaches are inspired by the Golden Mountain Pullman Express from the 1930s, a luxury train in the style of Orient Express. The current train is a reproduction of the Belle Epoque style of its predecessors. mob.ch/en/stories/belle-epoque 

Golfhotel Les Hauts de Gstaad****,

Saanenmöser

golfhotel.ch/en

Lunch at the Lochstafel mountain restaurant lochstafel.ch

Lunch at Miradi in Gstaad's newest hotel, The Mansard miirohotels.com/the-mansard

Dinner at the Restaurant La Gare Bernerhof in Gstaad bernerhof-gstaad.ch/en/gastronomy/restaurant-la-gare

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the 5th year and 7th season of this podcast and for any new listeners, I would point you to over 80 great episodes of destination specials, adventurer stories and celebrity travel recommendations. I’ve some great trips already planned for 2025 that I’m looking forward to sharing with you over the year.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

#IrelandsBlueBook   #Meath 

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Today I am chatting to Tadhg Carolan from Tankardstown House, a Meath native and board member of Ireland’s Blue Book collection of family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. For more details go to https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie/houses.html/station-house

Tankardstown Estate comprises an 18th Century Manor House, adjoining Orangery and a central courtyard of Cottage Suites. Tucked behind the Main House is the ‘Garden Village’, where classic evening dining takes place in the 2AA Rosette Restaurant, ‘Brabazon’, as well as serving casual lunch and Afternoon Tea.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

#IrelandsBlueBook   #Meath 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today am chatting to Suzanne Mullen from the Station House Hotel, the newest member of Ireland’s Blue Book collection of family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. For more details go to https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie/houses.html/station-house

The Station House Hotel is an award winning boutique hotel located in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East and is set on 12 acres of manicured gardens and woodland and offers an idyllic country escape, approximately 40km from Dublin airport.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

#IrelandsBlueBook #TheStationHouseHotel #Meath

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Zaragoza is the fifth largest city in Spain. Zaragoza has impressive sites like the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar, the Cathedral of the Saviour, known as the SEO and the Aljafería Palace, the northernmost Spanish-Moorish palace in Europe.

Zaragoza is home to Aragon's Mudejar architectural treasures, which were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021, including the SEO and the Aljafería.

Zaragoza is also famous for his links when chocolate came to Europe and as the world capital of Garnacha wine.

For more information on Zaragoza visit https://www.zaragoza.es

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This area is where the Spanish go on holidays for a cultural and food fix. It is in a way an idealised version of Spain with open planes of fields of vines and olive oil as far as the eye can see to the distant horizon. Think spaghetti westerns landscape where farms are often 1,000’s of acres. Where brilliant sunsets blaze the land orange every night. 

The capital Mérida is a destination you should put at the top of your list when it comes to visiting Extremadura. As the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania, Mérida boasts an impressive collection of Roman ruins that have earned it the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Roman Theatre, still used for performances today, is a remarkable testament to the city’s ancient past. 

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I explore this great city and the Minho region above Porto with lush green hills and Vino Vert vineyards and the stunning medieval towns of Braga and Ponte de Lima. I also talk about the areas below Porto including the Douro Valley, the Arouca region and the River Paiva which is great for rafting.

Check out my Instagram for more detailed info on the trip.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about the glitzy beach town of Cassis on the coast,following in the footsteps of author Peter Mayle around the medieval hill towns of the Luberon and the city of Aix en Provence. We also cover the Alpilles region around St Remy and Beaucaire and the wonderful ancient Roman cities of Arles and Avignon. We talk about the great markets, restaurants, food and wines and the friendliness of the people of Provence. This is the episode for Francophiles!

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we are focusing on Donegal, which is the start of the Wild Atlantic Way, with an interview with Karoline Sweeney from the Castle Grove Country House. Castle Grove is a family-run Georgian house, built in 1695 and set is its own 250-acre estate.

Castle Grove Country House is one of the few remaining private estates in the northwest of Ireland which overlooks Lough Swilly and is ideally placed between Letterkenny and Rathmullan so it’s the perfect base from which to explore beautiful Donegal and Wild Atlantic Way. For further details go to https://www.castlegrove.com

I love the Blue Book because they are generally family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. You really get to see Irish hospitality at its best and the properties are generally old country houses, so you get a real sense of the history of the area you are staying in and their website is https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we are focusing on Kerry, probably Ireland’s most famous tourist region, with an interview with Frank Slattery from Carrig Country House.  If you haven’t already, I’d recommend you listen to part 1 with Patrick Hanley from the Lansdowne Kenmare.

I love the Blue Book because they are generally family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. You really get to see Irish hospitality at its best and the properties are generally old country houses, so you get a real sense of the history of the area you are staying in and their website is https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie.

The Carrig Country House is hidden away on Caragh Lake and lies at the foot of the northern lower slopes of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks at the head of the Caragh Valley. It is a magnificent tranquil location midway between the bustling town of Killorglin to the east and the charming village of Glenbeigh and Rossbeigh Beach to the west. Check here https://carrighouse.com.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You should check out my previous two Blue Book episodes on Connemara. But today we are focusing on Kerry, probably Ireland’s most famous tourist region, with two great interviews with Patrick Hanley from the Lansdowne Kenmare in part 1 and Frank Slattery from Carrig Country House in part 2.

I love the Blue Book because they are generally family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. You really get to see Irish hospitality at its best and the properties are generally old country houses, so you get a real sense of the history of the area you are staying in. A Blue Book voucher would always be my top travel gift recommendation and their website is https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie.

The Lansdowne Kenmare has been an intrinsic part of the history of Kenmare since 1790 and was fully restored in 2021 by my guest today Brian Hanley whose family have been associated with the centre of Kenmare for many years. The Heritage Town of Kenmare is affectionately known as “The Jewel in the Crown” as it is a landmark destination on the famous Ring of Kerry. For more information check out https://www.lansdownekenmare.com.

If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

But what really shines throughout this episode as we meander around the world is Kevin’s passion for travel. When I travel it is much more than the geographic location that brings place to life – it’s the history of a place, the culture, the food, the drink, the fun and the sun. It’s the architecture and the people. Kevin gets that so if you like all things travel then you will love this episode. 

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Wild Atlantic Way, which stretches from Donegal to Cork, over 2,500 winding kms of glorious scenery, beaches, villages and hotels, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and we will be interviewing famous hoteliers along this world famous route over the coming months. 

I love the Blue Book because they are mostly family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. You really get to see Irish hospitality at its best and the properties are generally old country houses, so you get a real sense of the history of the area you are staying in. A Blue Book voucher would always be my top travel gift recommendation and their website is https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 100 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The first two Connemara Destination episodes focus on Connemara with interviews with two hoteliers Brian McEvilly from the Cashel House Hotel and Henry Hodgson from Currarevagh House who are both founding members of Ireland’s Blue Book collection, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

I love the Blue Book because they are mostly family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. You really get to see Irish hospitality at its best and the properties are generally old country houses, so you get a real sense of the history of the area you are staying in. A Blue Book voucher would always be my top travel gift recommendation and their website is https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie.

Situated in the heart of Connemara, the Cashel House Hotel overlooks the majestic Cashel Bay on the west coast of Ireland. This classic country house retreat was built in the 19th century and converted to a family-run four-star hotel in 1968 by the McEvilly family. I had a great chat with Brian all about Connemara, the Wild Atlantic Way, tip and recommendations and the history of his family’s hotel. Check them here https://www.cashelhouse.ie

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 100 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in over 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in over 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in over 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in over 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in over 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in over 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There are many more attractions and activities in Longford for tourists including the Royal Canal Greenway from Clondra to Dublin, which is the longest linear greenway in Ireland. The National Famine Way from Strokestown is also a great trail in Longford for walkers.

For history buffs there is the Corlea Trackway Visitors Centre in Kenagh, which is home to an ancient Iron Age bog road which dates back to 148BC. Then there is also the Knights and Conquests Heritage Centre in Granard which is a Norman Ireland interactive visitors centre adjacent to Ireland’s tallest motte. Another great place to visit is the Maria Edgeworth Centre in Edgeworthstown which is located in the old schoolhouse in the town. The centre tells the story of one of Ireland’s leading female writers and is home to many original artifacts from the 18th century.

Longford is home to Center Parcs Longford Forest, Ireland’s largest tourist attraction with over 100 activities on offer for up to 2,500 guests in luxurious guest lodges on-site and Ireland’s largest Spa – Aqua Sana Spa in the beautiful surrounds at Newcastle Woods.

 Longford is part of the Hidden Heartland brand and for more information on what makes Longford so special please click on https://www.longford.ie/en/see-do. 

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 100 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adelboden is a very traditional town with farming still the main source of income and this gives it the feel of a real lived in town rather than a tourist ski resort. I got the same line from any locals I talked to who said it is even more beautiful in the summer and a great place for hiking and mountain biking.

Adelboden is surrounded on all sides by mountains giving the sense you are in the middle of the alps. This resort was perfect because it has many kms of wide open gentle red runs making it perfect for the average Irish skier and I would say it is a great resort for families or couples.

Adelboden’s low key charm has always made this resort popular with Swiss people with the spectacular mountains view I have ever seen in the alps.

For details check the Swiss tourism website here https://www.myswitzerland.com and I recommend the Cambrian hotel in Adelboden to stay https://www.thecambrianadelboden.com.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 120 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My first guest is Ted Robinson from Barberstown Castle in Straffan, Co Kildare. This 13th century castle is famous as being the home of Eric Clapton from 1979 to 1985 when music royalty like Mick Jagger and Bob Dylan stayed. 

For romance there is nothing quite like an Irish country house break. Unless you go to a castle that is, and you have that castle all to yourself. The stunning and faithfully restored 15th century castle in Kilkenny called Tubbrid Castle only takes one booking at a time. You can have the three bedroomed medieval tower house all to yourself to sleep like a king and queen in a huge four poster bed.

Tubbrid Castle has been lovingly restored by the late John Campion and his son Dr John Campion and the castle has been receiving rave reviews since it opened for guests a few years ago. The castle is the newest addition to the Blue Book collection and media like Forbes and the New York Times have been raving about it.

Whenever I am looking for a hotel for a city break, I always pick the location first, ideally central and then look for a family run hotel with some history attached to it. That is exactly what No.1 Pery Square is in the heart of the Georgian Quarter in Limerick. The proprietor Patricia Roberts tells me all about the history of this magnificent Georgian town house in Limerick. 

For great romantic getaway deals check reland's Blue Book website https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie. I love the Blue Book because they are mostly family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. You really get to see Irish hospitality at its best and the properties are generally old country houses or castles, so you get a real sense of the history of the area you are staying in.

Check out No.1 Pery Square in Limerick here https://oneperysquare.com

Check out Tubbrid Castle in Kilkenny here https://www.tubbridcastle.com

check out Barberstown Castle here https://www.barberstowncastle.ie

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 100 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 100 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two today you will first hear Clare county councillor Clare Colleran Molloy, the Mayor of Ennis, who tells us all about my hometown and the official “friendliest and tidiest town in Ireland”. Then you will get to hear from the wonderful Mike Glynn from the Bunratty Castle and folk Park. Then we will hear from Dave Merrins of Burren Gold Cheese who tells us all about the Burren Geopark and the award winning Geofoods group. Finally we will hear from Rosie McMahon from the Shannon Estuary Way Retreat.

In partnership with Clare County Council and Visit Clare

 Website: www.visitclare.ie

Facebook: @Visit Clare

Twitter: @ClareTourism

Instagram: @VisitClare

#VisitClare #Makingiteasy #Keepdiscovering.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 100 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you ask a Clare person for recommendations and tips it is always a long list. That is why I recorded two County Clare destinations specials to help do justice to this stunning county on the west coast of Ireland.

In part one today you will hear from cllr Tony O’Brien, the Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council who gives a great Clare tourism overview. Clare is synonymous with traditional music and you will hear from Clarles Monod of the Tunes from Doolin fame. Then you will hear from Nuala Mulqueeney of the award winning Aillwee Burren Experience and finally Arlene White of Clare Walks share her highlights of East Clare.

In partnership with Clare County Council and Visit Clare

 Website: www.visitclare.ie

Facebook: @Visit Clare

Twitter: @ClareTourism

Instagram: @VisitClare

#VisitClare #Makingiteasy #Keepdiscovering.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 185 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I interviewed two hoteliers from the Clonakilty area to give us an overview of the area with local tips and recommendations. My first interviewee is Michael O’Neill from Fernhill House and Gardens Hotel, who is a 4th generation hotelier. Then you will hear from Kela Hodgins of Donowen House both close to Clonakilty in West Cork.

Both Kela and Michael are part of Ireland’s Blue Book collection. I love the Blue Book because they are mostly family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. You really get to see Irish hospitality at its best and the properties are generally old country houses, so you get a real sense of the history of the area you are staying in. A Blue Book voucher would always be my top travel gift recommendation and their website is https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie.

Check out Fernhill House Hotel here https://www.fernhillhousehotel.com

Check out Dunowen house here https://dunowenhouse.ie

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 100 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I really wanted to go to Granada to see the final capital of Moorish Spain and learn about history from the Moorish perspective and their influence on European food, architecture, culture and science.

The most obvious example of this Moorish influence is the Alhambra which looms over the town. The Alhambra is a huge medieval middle eastern style complex overlooking the city encompassing forts, royal palaces, serene gardens, fountains and pools. My episode today is all about my top travel tips when visiting this glorious city.

Websites:  www.turgranada.es / www.andalucia.org / www.spain.info

Recommended Activities

Costa Tropical Lunch at Chambao de Joaquín restaurant, in La Herradura.                    

Visit to the San Ramón farm, with subtropical crops https://www.fincasanramon.net/ 

Visit to the Señorío Nevada winery https://www.senoriodenevada.es/bodega-y-cata.html/    

Granada Tours with the guide Manu Estudillo.

            Granada Flamenco show - Venta el Gallo - https://www.cuevaventaelgallo.es/

Trópolis (bread making workshop, Geoparque)- -  www.tropolis.es

Caviar de Riofrío (Loja). - - www.caviarderiofrio.com

Visit of the town Montefrío. - - https://www.turismomontefrio.org/en/home/

Lorca Tour www.universolorca.com

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 100 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Triona O’Mahony is the tourism marketing officer of the Munster Vales which was set up through the hard work of local community groups, county councils and Government agencies to promote the stunning areas lying to the south of Cashel, east of Charleville, and north of Fermoy and Lismore, it's a vast area between the counties of Cork, Limerick, Waterford and Tipperary.

I live in the middle of this beautiful area so this is a very special personal episode.For details and itineraries check their website check out their website https://munstervales.com. 

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 100 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Halkidiki region is made up of three peninsulas or fingers with something for all types of travellers. The first finger is called Kassandra and is the most developed for tourism with glitzy hotels and huge nightclubs that would give Ibiza a run for its money. The middle finger is Sithonia which is less developed with some of the best secluded beaches in Greece and the third finger is Mount Athos which is an independent theocracy called the holy mountain and considered the holiest site in the Orthodox church.

My ideal place is a small fishing village with a crescent shaped soft white sand beach protected by a sheltered cove and surrounded by an amphitheatre of mountains. The village is small enough to have very few tourists but big enough to have a few fish restaurants you don’t mind going back to again and again. The last piece of the jigsaw is accommodation with a pool but also a few minutes’ walk from the beach and the village. I found that place at the very end of the stunning Sithonia peninsula at my new favourite place called the Porto Koufo Resort situated around two hours’ drive from Thessaloniki airport.

For more information on the Porto Koufo Resort visit https://portokouforesort.com

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John has just released The Stream of Everything which is about a canoe trip down the Camlin river in Longford with a friend. This stunning book is a meditation on the simple beauty of nature and a celebration of the slow pace of rural living especially in counties like Longford.

John published the bestseller The Cow Book in 2018 which is a memoir of his return to his family's farm in Longford after many years in Australia. Then he wrote The Running Book about his love of running but also the rich colonial history of Longford.

Longford recently made national attention in the tourism industry when Center Parcs set up Ireland’s largest tourist attraction with over 100 activities on offer for up to 2,500 guests in luxurious guest lodges on-site at Newcastle woods.

But there are many more attractions and activities in the county for tourists including the Royal Canal Greenway from Clondra to Dublin, which is the longest linear greenway in Ireland. The National Famine Way from Strokestown is also a great trail in Longford for walkers.

For history buffs there is the Corlea Trackway Visitors Centre in Kenagh, which is home to an ancient Iron Age bog road which dates back to 148BC. Then there is also the Knights and Conquests Heritage Centre in Granard which is a Norman Ireland interactive visitors centre adjacent to Ireland’s tallest motte. Another great place to visit is the Maria Edgeworth Centre in Edgeworthstown which located in the old schoolhouse in the town. The centre tells the story of one of Ireland’s leading female writers and is home to many original artifacts from the 18th century

 Longford is part of the Hidden Heartland brand and for more information on what makes Longford so special please click on https://www.longford.ie/en/see-do. 

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For lovers of history and entertainment, it is the perfect city for a break. By day you can visit the many great museums like the Guildhall.  Then by night there are great restaurants and bars all clustered together to create a vibrant nightlife buzz.

To give you a flavour of what this wonderful city has to offer I have interviews with Charlene McCrossan from Martin McCrossan City Wall Tours, David Gilliland from Brook Hall gardens and Richard Allen from Oakfire Adventures.

For more information on these activities go to https://www.visitderry.com.

For Oakfire Adventures go to https://oakfireadventures.com

For Martin McCrossan Tours go to https://www.visitderry.com/things-to-do/martin-mccrossan-city-tours-p707361

For Brook Hall Gardens go to https://brookhall.co.uk

For Walled City Brewery go to https://www.walledcitybrewery.com/

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I visited the centre of Portugal in September and what really shone through for me was the natural friendliness of the inhabitants of this stunning mountainous region between Lisbon and Porto.

The landscape of the centre of Portugal continuously changes from the endless Atlantic surf beaches on the coast all the way up to the Serra da Estrela mountain range. The area contains over 40 mountain villages all with their own unique personalities, 4 natural parks and 5 UNESCO World Heritage sites. For more information check https://www.centerofportugal.com.

You will hear interviews on the podcast from local people from this stunning region and Paul McLaughlan from the Irish Examiner.

Useful Information

Accommodation

Casas da Lapa

https://www.casasdalapa.pt

Restaurants

Casa de S. Lourenço - Burel Panorama Hotel

https://www.casadesaolourenco.pt

Transportation 

https://www.madomistours.pt

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

This is the last episode of Season 3 so please keep an eye on Instagram for updates on Season 4.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

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Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Thom is very much into conservation and loves travelling into the wilds of nature. He wanted his first trip post pandemic to be a special one so I loved hearing about his recent trip to Churchill, Manitoba in Canada which is known as the polar bear capital of the world.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Des Bishop’s latest stand up show is called Mia Mamma and it is a comic and dramatic exploration of his mother Eileen’s passing in 2019. The show explores sadness and grief through humour and is full of love, affection and hope. The show is also an elegy to the Irish mammy – that most celebrated and most important member of every family.

Des is touring all over Ireland over the next few months including Clonmel on the 10th of March and you can get tickets here https://secure.tickets.ie/Listing/EventInformation/43538/des-bishop and details on his Irish tour here https://www.desbishop.net/tour-dates.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Since then, I have always been fascinated with stories of Everest’s often deadly history. So I was riveted last May when following the literal ups and downs of my podcast guest today as he attempted to climb Everest during the peak of the pandemic. 

Damian Browne hails from Galway and is a former professional rugby player who has played for Leinster, Northampton, Brive and Oyonnax. Damian’s passion for travel and adventure has led him to visit more than 50 countries on 6 continents.

Damien is an adventurer in the truest sense of the word using the world’s most extreme environments to test his physical and mental capabilities. Damien has covered more ground than many of the great explorers of the early 20th century including spending 63-days rowing solo across the Atlantic. An epic trip he previously spoke to me about on my very first podcast in 2020

Since he first climbed Elbrus (the highest mountain in Europe) in Russia in 2018 he has been obsessed with successfully climbing Everest. His original trip was called off in 2020 when the pandemic took hold and he only found out he could go to Nepal in April last year a few days after his Australian partner gave birth to their first child in Brisbane.

Epic is a word often used when talking about adventures but this attempt on Everest was truly epic. Damian’s tale is all about that famous mountain, what it is like working with Sherpas, being at basecamp, the Khumbu Icefall and much more. 

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

Follow Damian and Fergus' attempt to row the Atlantic this summer https://www.facebook.com/projectempower2022/

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Anthony Bourdain, author of Kitchen Confidential and the host-writer of the seminal food and travel series Parts Unknown, introduced us to entire cultures, places and foods. He opened up new countries and places to us through his celebration of food and travel and inspired us to go out and explore.

I rediscovered the brilliance of Anthony Bourdain during the first lockdown when I re watched his show Parts Unknown on Netflix to get my armchair travel fix when the world was closed. My favourite thing to do when travelling is to sit outside a café, sample some local cuisine and watch the world go by. Bourdain would often do just that on his shows and he could brilliantly convey the emotions attached to that experience. Bourdain brought the streets and markets alive and you could practically smell the food.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Laurie Woolever's new book Stories on Bourdain is here https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/bourdain-9781526645159

Patrick Radden Keeffe book Empire of Pain is here https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/612861/empire-of-pain-by-patrick-radden-keefe/

The Samaritans https://www.samaritans.org/ireland/samaritans-ireland/

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Patrick is half Irish/half Iranian and that mix has produced a big bundle of energy and positivity so I think you will enjoy this episode as Patrick has performed all over the world and is full of fun travel stories. 

I have some great episodes coming up over the next few weeks including a Portugal destination special and next Tuesday we have very special episode on Anthony Bourdain.

 If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Camino is over 800kms from the Spanish border in the Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia and it typically takes a walker between 30 to 35 to complete.The Camino is a truly magical pilgrimage and I hope these 3 episodes convey in some small way why the Camino is so special to me and to so many people around the world.

Today you are going to hear from some of the fascinating people I met along the way starting with Jarlath O’Madain who I met during the walk and then interviewed him in Santiago on the day he finished his Camino.

I met so many captivating guides who were full of knowledge and this really brought the Camino’s history to life and helped me get an understanding of the different cultures of each of the four very different regions the Camino passes through. We get to hear from three on the podcast - Helder Cerejo, Patricia Longa and Ursula.

 Finally, I interviewed Philip Martin on the podcast previously and he chose the Camino as his Happy Place, so I will finish with Philip summing up the magic of the Camino.

 If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations. For more information on the Camino please go to https://www.spain.info. I flew with Aer Lingus from Dublin to Bilbao and then from Santiago to Dublin.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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The Camino is over 800kms from the Spanish border in the Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia and it typically takes a walker between 30 to 35 to complete.

In part 2 today I talk to Catharine Murphy who has walked the Camino many times and she gives us a great guide to the many ways to do the Camino. We then hear from my guides Fran and Ursula and then we finish off with an insightful interview with the American writer Curtis Williams on the history of the Camino.

The Camino is a truly magical pilgrimage and I hope these 3 episodes convey in some small way why the Camino is so special to so many people around the world. We will have the final 3rd part of this special next Tuesday. For more information on the Camino go to the website https://www.spain.info .I flew with Aer Lingus from Dublin to Bilbao and then from Santiago to Dublin.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday for the rest of the year.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Camino is a truly magical experience that I would recommend to everyone but especially lovers of walking and history enthusiasts. The Camino brings you through four very different regions of Spain with four very distinct landscapes, culture, architecture, people, cuisine, weather and even language.

The Camino is one of Christianity’s most venerated and ancient pilgrimage walks and goes to the tomb of St James at the magnificent world heritage listed cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, which is the third most holy site in Christianity after Rome and Jerusalem.

Today you will hear an interview from Fergal O’Keeffe on his Camino experiences, then Fergal interviews three writers John Connell, Mark O’Halloran and Curtis Williams about their Camino journeys.

I hope these episodes convey in some small way why the Camino is so special to so many people around the world.

There is an openness and camaraderie amongst fellow walkers, who share a passing “Buen Camino” greeting and they will often chat and exchange stories with you. Next Tuesday I will share those fascinating interviews with you and we will go a little deeper in the history and mystique of the Camino. For more information on the Camino go to the website https://www.spain.info.I flew with Aer Lingus from Dublin to Bilbao and then from Santiago to Dublin.

If you haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday for the rest of the year.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about day-dream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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I have run a comedy club in Clonmel, Tipperary for over 15 years and Karl Spain was the MC at my very first show and I’m delighted to say he will be headlining my next show, which is a Christmas special on the 9th of December in Bakers Bar in Clonmel.

As you will hear now Karl isn’t just a great stand up but also a great natural story teller. Karl tells us about his love of going to sports events like the football world Cup, and he shares great stories from performing at comedy gigs all over the world to places including India, Thailand, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Romania, Brussels, Dubai and Edinburgh to name a few. 

If you have haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday for the rest of the year.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about day-dream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Sean is in a unique position to share with us an Irish immigrant’s perspective of moving to America and then an American’s view of living and working in Ireland, as the director of corporate communications with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, who develop our national road and light rail network.

Sean’s voice will be known to many listeners of this podcast as he gave a great insight into the US elections last year. Sean gives prescient insights in both Irish and American life and culture in this informative interview.

If you have haven’t already I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday for the rest of the year.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 90 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about day-dream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Keith has just released his first book Brain Hacks where he reveals a variety of techniques that help develop mental toughness subconsciously. We have a great chat about the places that most influenced his career including LA and Las Vegas and his favourite holidays, including one of mine, the Derrynane House Hotel in Kerry, Ireland. 

For details on Keith upcoming Reconnected Tour in 2022 check here https://keithbarry.com

If you have haven’t already Id ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday for the rest of the year.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 80 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about day-dream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you have haven’t already Id ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday for the rest of the year.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 80 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about day-dream worthy destinations.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This was one of the most enjoyable interviews I have done in 3 seasons. I have always believed that food and travel are inextricably linked and this episode is for all lovers of food and everything to do with food.

After retiring Russ moved to Waterford and he now writes a brilliant monthly food column for the Irish Times. I love his articles because he writes about how wonderful Irish food is from the perspective of an outsider. I chat with Russ about his favourite trips to places like Umbria, Los Angeles, Gascony and Mendocino.

If you have haven’t already Id ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday for the rest of the year.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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This podcast has a very simple premise where I chat to a special guest every week where I ask for 5 trips or places that most influenced or impressed them. My guests come from all walks of life with one thing in common. They all have great travel stories.

I started this podcast exactly a year ago at the height of the pandemic to help fuel your imagination by doing some armchair travelling with my guests and this podcast is now listened to in over 80 countries worldwide.

Reginald is touring Ireland in January and he is brings his “Bombe Shuffler” stand up show to O’Keeffes Comedy Club in Clonmel on the 29th January. Get tickets here https://secure.tickets.ie/Listing/EventInformation/43647/reginald-d-hunter

If you have haven’t already Id ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every Tuesday for the rest of the year.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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But before that we have a special Bonus episode today with bestselling debut author Louise Nealon which was recorded live in the amazing new Junction Dome during the Clonmel Junction Festival in July.

Louise Nealon chats about her experiences in the last year from getting an agent, to writing her book Snowflake, to getting it published and then going straight to No.1 in the Irish bestseller charts. This interview will be of interest to anyone who loves writing as we delve into the writing process and Louise tells us what inspirations fuel her creativity.

I’d ask you to subscribe or follow the podcast on whichever platform you get your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode every week.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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I will be doing my first Travel Tales with Fergal Live Podcast on the 6th July with novelist Louise Nealon in the festival DOME and you can get free tickets to see online from https://www.junctionfestival.com/product/travel-tales-with-fergal. In this unique conversation, Louise Nealon will discuss her experiences in the last year of the writing process, getting published and going to No.1 in the bestseller charts for her debut novel Snowflake.

Keep an eye out on https://traveltaleswithfergal.ie/for details of Season 3 towards the end of the summer. I already have some brilliant interviews done and I can’t wait to share them with you.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about day-dream worthy destinations. I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The podcast is now listened to in 75 countries and I have loved sharing travel tales with you and I look forward to sharing more soon in Season 3.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about day-dream worthy destinations.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ill have my favourite episode of each season out next week – the Happy Place Special bonus episode. I have some great guests already lined up for season 3. Follow @traveltalkwithfergal on Instagram for updates.

The podcast is now listened to in 80 countries and I have loved sharing travel tales with you and I look forward to sharing more soon.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about day-dream worthy destinations.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Randy has travelled and worked all over the world. He shares great insights into the food business and shares great tales from many travels in Asia, Africa, the Americas and especially about his time working in India. It’s a real India special this week.

We also talk about Randy’s upcoming video series coming and Id recommend you to subscribe to Randaddy’s YouTube channel to see every episode.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal, which is a weekly interview series listened to in 75 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about day-dream worthy destinations.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Tipperary is justifiably renowned worldwide for its food producers. Phil tells why he chose Clonmel as the location for Ireland’s only authentic Mexican tortilleria using source ingredients from heritage producers in Mexico.

Before opening Blanco Nino, Phil travelled throughout Mexico to learn the art of making authentic corn tortillas. He visited the milpas, molinos and tortillerias to learn the secrets of the ancient Aztec process of nixtamalisation, which helps to give authentic tortillas their unique flavour.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal, which is a weekly interview series listened to in over 70 countries. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about day-dream worthy destinations.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Annie has had an eventful and high octane career working in sports marketing for UEFA, FIFA, Eurosport, F1 and Shell on the Ferrari F1 team and more recently on the commercial side for shell in Africa.

Annie shares great tales of working of on some of the most memorable sporting events over the last 20 years including the Euro's in Portugal in 2004 and the World Cup in Germany in 2006.

Annie has worked both directly for F1 and also representing Shell on the Ferrari F1 team. She has worked with four World Champion drivers Fernando Alonso, Felipe Massa, Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel. This was a dream job for any lovers of F1 and Ferrari.

Annie is currently working for shell throughout Africa and she shares why that continent has such a special place in her heart.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series listened to in over 70 countries. He interviews a special guest about their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Website www.https://www.traveltaleswithfergal.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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If every episode has a personality, then Manchan’s is pure joy and love for the remotest places and peoples on a planet. A planet that needs sustainable help.

After over 30 years of unrivalled adventures to parts of the world unseen by most people, Manchan shared great travel tales about Africa, South American, Asia and the Middle East to name a few.

Manchan also tells me about his decision in January last year to give up flying for holidays for ecological reasons and to help raise awareness about the harmful effects of carbon emissions from flying and how he intends to renew his love of slow travel especially by train. 

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series listened to in over 70 countries. He interviews a special guest about their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Email fergal@lume.ie

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Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

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Louise's writing is truthful, moving and very, very funny. I think she has the magic ingredient and is going to be a star. We had a lovely chat about the places and trips that most influenced her including J1ing in New York and San Diego, interrailing throughout Europe, Belfast and the west of Ireland to name a few. This episode is for all lovers of great writing as Louise gives us a unique insight into the writing process. 

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series listened to in over 70 countries. He interviews a special guest about their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Email fergal@lume.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

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He talks on the podcast about the five trips and places that influenced him the most. He shares great stories of spending teenage summers in the south of France. Coming out in London in the 80’s and living through the Aids epidemic. He talks about travelling overland on the Trans Siberian Express and then living for 4 years in Tokyo where he learned his trade as a drag queen and his many trips to Sydney for the Mardi Gras. This episode really shines a light on why travel is so important in shaping a person’s outlook on life.

It is exactly one year since all hospitality businesses in Ireland had to close due to the pandemic. Rory owns the Pantibar in Dublin, so he knows first-hand the devastating effects of the lockdown restrictions. He speaks eloquently of the effects of that lockdown on people working in tourism.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series listened to in over 70 countries. He interviews a special guest about their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Email fergal@lume.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Alan is most famous for discovering and signing Oasis. His life has been turned into a movie called Creation Stories by the Trainspotting team of Danny Boyle and Irvine Welsh and the premier is Saturday, 20th March on Sky Movies. Alan speaks on the podcast about how he irrevocably changed the face of British culture.Hear all about Alan’s amazing life during the Cool Britannia era of the 90’s.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series listened to in over 60 countries. He interviews a special guest about their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Email fergal@lume.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Mexico has become a mecca for travel influencers, jet-setting celebrities and hippies as they flock to Tulum on the Caribbean coast. This beach resort town on the "Mayan Riviera" is booming from an influx of tourists and remote workers, not without some controversy.

They give an honest assessment of why they left the UK in January to go to Mexico for work and the reaction they got for doing that. “It gets to the point when you feel you have had enough and that was us at Christmas. We are people that thrive on being in different countries, cultures, by learning and exploring. Travelling is how we find our natural happiness”.

Influencers have come under fire in recent weeks for jet-setting off to sunny destinations abroad for work trips during a pandemic. But for influencers, whose livelihoods depend on engaging an audience and keeping sponsorships, travelling goes beyond adventure.

The Two Bohemians share great travel stories including campervanning through Europe, cycling the plains of Mongolia and why Costa Rica and Sri Lanka are the new travel hotspots. 

They give great insights into what it is like to devote your life to travel and how exactly you make money from influencing. They continued to travel throughout 2020 during the pandemic and they share what that was really like.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series listened to in over 60 countries. He interviews a special guest about their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Email fergal@lume.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Fellow Patagonia solo-climbing aficionado, Colin Haley said of the feat, "There is no doubt that this is the most impressive solo ascent ever done in Patagonia, and I can't help but wonder if it isn't simply the most impressive ascent ever done in Patagonia in general”.

Sean is considered a genius by his peer in adventure climbing and this interview shows his love for climbing, the mountains and Patagonia in particular shining through. Listen now to how he did that already famous climb and learns how he got to that point. 

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series listened to in over 60 countries. He interviews a special guest about their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Email fergal@lume.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Brendan has worked as a hotelier for over 20 years including Vice President of Global Sales EMEA for Hyatt Hotels. and he gives a great insight into life as an Irish expat in Spain and especially not able to travel back to Ireland for over a year to see family.

He talks about the current lockdown situation in Spain, where restaurants just opened again last weekend, and the difference in the current attitude to tourism in Spain v Ireland and shares his predictions for the future of the hotel business.

He gives great tips on where to travel in Spain and his favourite hotels and restaurants from around the world and much more.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series listened to in over 50 countries. He interviews a special guest about their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Email fergal@lume.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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Brendan has worked for over 20 years in some of the most iconic hotels and brands including Vice President Global Sales EMEA for Hyatt Hotels. Brendan really captures the manic world of the global hotel business as he gives an energetic, charismatic tour of working all over the world including London, New York, Cairo, Istanbul, Madrid and Murcia to name just a few.

This is a whirlwind of an episode and in fact Brendan shares so many great tales from his long career in tourism that we will have part 2 of this interview as a special bonus episode this Thursday. 

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series listened to in over 50 countries. He interviews a special guest about their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Email fergal@lume.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David gives fascinating socio economic, cultural and historical insights into the Caribbean. He talks about his time in America and Russia as a student. He goes in-depth about the character of Russians and why America lost its lustre as a holiday destination during the Trump era. He tells us about his love for Croatia where he has a summer home.

He shares great tales of working for a French bank and chasing financial disasters around the world.

David has a great eye for seeing cultural trends before anyone else and he shares prescient insights into the future of business travel in the era of the pandemic and reflects on the age-old power dynamics of travel in the workplace.

And much, much more!

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series listened to in over 50 countries. He interviews a special guest about their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Email fergal@lume.ie

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The fun from Après Ski after a long day on the slopes is one of the great joys of a ski holiday. This episode is an appreciation of all things Après from the great craic to the fun bars and fantastic restaurants to the great resorts for Après.

This is a short bonus episode with an extended interview with my ski sidekick Sean. I hope this episode conveys that giggly Après feeling. This is the perfect antidote for you if you want a good laugh. So if you find you laugh at someone else laughing, then this is the episode for you!

The podcast next week will feature world renowned Irish economist David McWilliams talking about his time living in Russia just after fall of the Berlin Wall and working and traveling for the International Development bank all over the around the world.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series where a special guest shares stories from their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paul talks about life touring as a professional rugby player and how South Africa played a pivotal role in his career. He got his first cap playing alongside his brother Richard against Japan at the World Cup in South Africa in 1995. 

Paul returned to South Africa for the Lions tour in 1997 and shares great stories of that tour made famous by the “Living with Lions” documentary. Paul was pivotal to the winning of that series and was one of only five players to play every minute of the three tests. He speaks in-depth about that tour and how it compares to an Irish tour.

He also talks of his playing days with Saracens in London and shares a great story of going to a teammate’s lodge on the Zambezi in Africa.

The podcast next week will feature world renowned Irish economist David McWilliams talking about his time living in Russia just after fall of the Berlin Wall and working and traveling for the International Development bank all over the around the world.

Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is a weekly interview series where a special guest shares stories from their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad. The guests all have inspirational stories that enable people to armchair travel in their imagination.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This podcast aims provide some escapism during lockdown by conjuring up fond memories of past travels and to inspire more adventurous future holidays.

Ireland’s top ski journalist Catherine Murphy and the legendary ski instructor Warren Smith give great overviews of the best skiing in Europe. We cover a lot of ground including Europe, Japan, Canada and the USA.

We have some brilliant guests coming in the next few weeks and to give a flavour hear ski enthusiasts David McWilliams, expat Annie Kennedy in Switzerland and Canadian Randy Lewis from Randaddy’s restaurant in west Clare, telling us about their favourite resorts.

We also have great recommendations from Keith wood, Irish journalist Philip O’Connor who lives in Sweden and Taragh Lougnrey Grant.

Après ski is often as important as the slopes and I have our regular contributor Sean O’Neill back to share some fun Après Ski memories.

The podcast will have a special interview next Tuesday with rugby legend Paul Wallace, who will be chatting about the Six Nations, the mystique of Lions rugby tours to South Africa and whether this year’ tour will happen.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on

Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

Twitter @FergalTravel

YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

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They give a topical, informative and entertaining insight into where they see the country going in the next four years under Biden with a Democratic majority in Congress and the Senate.

I have some great episodes recorded for Season 2 and the first episode comes out on the 2nd February with a Ski Special featuring top ski experts and enthusiasts from across Europe sharing their favourite ski resorts and regale us with their favourite Apres Ski yarns.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on Instagram and Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal.

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The one question I asked every guest was to "take four deep breaths and think of their happy place" and I have a collection of their favourite places. You could not but smile to yourself with every joyous answer. And that is what we need now - to smile when we think of happier times to come.

You can hear the delight in their voices as they share their wonderful memories of places around the world including Cuba, Ibiza, Mexico, Israel, Bali, USA, Spain, Sweden, Alps, Maldives, Italy, Ireland and a lot of Co.Clare!

The only person featured not from Season 1 is Catherine Murphy, Ireland's No.1 Ski correspondent who will be in the first episode of Season 2 coming soon. This will be a Ski Special featuring top ski experts and enthusiasts from across Europe sharing their favourite resorts for skiing and of course Apres Ski.

Whenever you need a little lift then try this. Take 4 deep breaths and think of your happy place. Where is it and why?

A Happy and Healthy New Year Everyone.

Stay Safe, Stay Positive and Dream of Future Travels.

Interviewees

Sean O'Neill

Taragh Loughrey Grant

Catherine Murphy

Mark O'Halloran

Dawn Hindle

Jerry Fish

Philip O'Connor

Holly Rubenstein

Pol O'Conghile

Anthony Daly

Keith Wood

Con Murphy

Richard Fitzpatrick

Damian Browne

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Richard is a print and radio journalist with a focus on sport, in particular La Liga. Richard works for news organisations around the world, including BBC, Bleacher Report, Irish Times and talkSPORT, as well as making radio documentaries for RTÉ, Ireland’s national broadcaster.

As this is my last episode of season 1, I would like to thank all my listeners for their continued support which helped make this become the No.1 Travel Podcast in Ireland this year. Please follow me on Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal for updates on bonus episodes and to be the first to know when Season 2 drops in 2021.

I would ask you to please subscribe on Apple Podcast so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast.

Merry Christmas & A Prosperous New Year Full of Travel!

Fergal

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The Tales with Fergal Podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about day-dream worthy destinations with a special guest every Tuesday talking about their travels, adventures and experiences living abroad.

The Podcast also features other sports people including rugby player Keith Wood sharing a story of sumo wrestling in Tokyo at the last Rugby World Cup. The Podcast also hosted sports broadcasters Con Murphy and Philip O’Connor talking about the Olympics and Winter Olympics. The former Leinster player Damien Browne speaks of his solo row across the Atlantic.

I would ask you to please subscribe on Apple Podcast so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on Instagram and Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal.

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The Podcast episode this week features the troubadour Jerry Fish who has travelled the world with his music. He reminisces about live on the road touring with an Emotional Fish and tells great stories about when they supported U2 on the Zooropa tour.

Jerry has a lifelong love of travelling and shares great tales of going to a kibbutz in Israel and sleeping out in the Sinai desert under the stars. He talks of his hippy trail days in the 80's in Greece and Egypt.

This travel Podcast interview series is out every Tuesday and guests talk about travel, sport, culture, people, food, politics, history, the tourism industry and life abroad.

I would ask you to please subscribe on Apple Podcast so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on Instagram and Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal.

Destination Guide

Marseilles, France

U2

Athens, Greece

Greek Islands

Paros

AntiParos

Naxos

Matala, Crete

Aegina

Hydra

Golan Heights

Israel

Kabbutz

Jerusalem

Tapa, Egypt

Sinai Desert

Dehab

Yosemite National Park, California

USA

Rome, Italy

Glastonbury Festival

Electric Picnic

Burning Man

Derrynane, Kerry

Mount Leinster

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Holly tells us why she loves travelling, and transport us to her favourite day-dream destinations. This episode really fuels the travel wanderlust with insider tips and tales from her amazing list of guests.

I have two special episodes with travel industry experts this week with Pol O’Conghaile, the travel editor of the Irish Independent on the previous episode.

I would ask you to please subscribe on Apple Podcast so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on Instagram and Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal.

I would also highly recommend Holly’s Travel Diaries Podcast and to follow her in Instagram @hollyrubenstein.

Destination Guide

Suir Blueway

Clonmel, Tipperary

Ireland

Capri, Bay of Naples, Italy

Ascona, Lake Maggiore, Italy

Santa Barbara, California, USA

Canada

Cornwall, UK

Suffolk, UK

Japan

Tokyo

Antarctica

Lonely Planet

Maldives

Vernassi, India

La Paloma, Ibiza

North Korea

Michael Palin

Big Sur, California

Pacific North West, Canada

Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

Greek Island

Innsbruck, Austria

Peloponnese, Greece

Amman Hotel, Greece

Rosewood Miramar Beach Hotel, California

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The new feature Travel Insiders starts today where industry experts talk about their love of travel, market trends and their favourite destinations. My first interview is with Pol O’Conghaile, the Travel Editor of the Irish Independent newspaper.

We continue Travel Insiders on Thursday with Holly Rubenstein who hosts the brilliant Travel Diaries Podcast, which is the UK’s No.1 Travel podcast and whom I would consider the inspiration for this podcast.

I would ask you to please subscribe on Apple Podcast so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on Instagram and Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal.

Destination Guide

Moscow, Russia

Japan, Tokyo

Cyclades Islands, Greece

Naxos

Angola

Beara Pennisula

Liscannor Co.Clare

Ireland

Sperrin Mountains, Tyrone

Puglia, Italy

Seychelles

New York

Lima, Peru

Yungas Road, Bolivia

Silicy

Ghana

Broom, Australia

Tasmania

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Keith tells great tales about playing with Ireland including his first and last game in Australia. Keith is inextricably linked to the Lions and he shares great insights into the iconic tour of South Africa in 1997 and Australia in 2001. He looks forward in anticipation to the South African tour in 2021 and discusses whether it will go ahead or not. Keith shares great stories from the last Rugby World Cup in Tokyo. He talks about his time in London with Harlequins and his love of that city. He is particularly fond of Australia where he went on many tours with Ireland and the Lions and ended his career at the World Cup in 2003. Keith tells us where his favourite cities and stadiums to play in are and his favourite countries to tour to.

I would ask you to please subscribe on Apple Podcast so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on Instagram and Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal.

Destination Guide

Australia

Sydney

Queensland

Brisbane

Lions

South Africa

New Zealand

Rome

London

Quilty

Chicago

San Sebastian

Les Gets

Zermatt

French Alps

Tokyo

Clare

Ireland

Rugby

Lions

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We talk about hiking the Camino, cycling the length of the Danube, exploring the Middle East, and recommendations from the less explored parts of Eastern Europe and life in sunny Cuba. He shares stories from attending international film festivals. He talks about summers in west Co. Clare when growing up and much more.

The Travel Tales with Fergal Podcast is an interview series where I talk to interesting people with great travel stories every Tuesday. I would ask you to subscribe and a rating helps others find this travel podcast.. Stay safe and keep dreaming of future travel.

Destination Guide

Ireland

Co Clare

Middle East

Syria

Iran

Estafan

Beirut

Damascus

Aleppo

Holland

Amsterdam

London

Cuba

Havana

Playa Del Este

Albania

Macedonian

Kosovo

Turkey

Hungary

Budapest

Danube

Camino

Rome

Venice

Colorado

Cannes Film Festival

Istanbul

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Expat Lives will feature people like Annie Kennedy on working for Formula 1 and Shell in Africa, John Carey ex Duty CEO of ADNOC in the UAE, Brendan Dwyer the GM of Spain’s No.1 golf resort La Finca and journalist Richard Fitzpatrick in Barcelona to name a few. For details follow me on Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

My guest this week is Philip O'Connor who has lived in Stockholm, Sweden for over 20 years. He is a journalist and fans of The Stand Podcast will know him for his Swedish Covid reports. He has worked all over the world and tells tales of America, Iceland, Sweden, Ireland, South Korea, Russia, Brazil and much more.

I would ask you to please subscribe on Apple Podcast so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on Instagram and Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal. Philip is worth following on twitter on @philipoconnor.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I would ask you to please subscribe on Apple Podcast so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on Instagram and Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal. Dawn is worth following on Instagram on @dawnhindle and @pikesibiza.

Finally I'm delighted to say I have a new feature called Expat Lives and the first one is out this Thursday with Irish journalist Philip O’Connor living in Sweden. People who listen to The Stand with Eamonn Dunphy will know his Covid reports from there. He gives a great insight into the life of an Irishman living abroad.

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They give a topical, informative and entertaining insight into the current state of America and outline why this election is going to be much closer than many people expect. They discuss why the economy and taxes are still important to Republicans and whether Trump has inflicted enough damage on America for Reagan Republicans to vote for Biden.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on Instagram and Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal.

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I hope this podcast series will fuel your armchair travelling imagination.

Our guest this week is the sports broadcaster Con Murphy, who has a true love of travel and his profession. Con worked as one of the main sports presenters with RTÉ from 1992 until 2012. In that time he anchored RTÉ Radio's coverage of the Summer Olympics in Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000, Athens 2004 Beijing 2008, London 2012 and Rio de Janeiro 2016. He has presented football, golf, rugby, hockey, basketball, athletics, and horse racing on RTÉ Television. We talk about his favourite sports events, stadiums and travel destinations.

We have a special Bonus Episode coming out this Thursday called US Election Special: What is the Matter with America featuring Republican Daniel Gilmore and Democrat Sean O'Neill who have a topical, funny and informative discussion on the current state of America.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on Instagram and Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal.

Destinations Guide

Summer Olympics - Atlanta, USA, Athens, Greece, Sydney,Australia, Rio de Janeiro,Brazil, London, UK and Tokyo, Japan

Champions League Final

Ryder Cup

Irish Open

USA

Las Vegas

Palm Springs

Santa Monica

Bali

Ubud

World Cup Japan and Korea

Seville

Madrid Bernabau

Barcelona Nou Camp

Shamrock Rovers

Germany Euro 88, 

Tenerife

Spanish Football

Puerto Vallarta Mexico

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Damien is an adventurer in the truest sense of the word using the world’s most extreme environments to test his physical and mental capabilities like spending 63-days rowing solo across the Atlantic. He has climbed 5 of the 7 summits so far and gone on adventures to some of the most beautiful but less travelled countries in the world.

I would ask you to please subscribe so a new episode will appear in your library every week. I would also really appreciate if you could leave a rating and review as it helps others to discover this podcast. To find out who is on every Tuesday please follow me on Instagram and Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal. I highly recommend you follow Damian to see his next adventures on Instagram @auld_stock and Facebook @projectempower2022

Destinations Guide

Solo Row Atlantic

7 summits - Everest, Aconcagua, Denali, Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, Mount Vinson and Carstensz Pyramid.

Iron-Ore Train Mauritania

Iran Couchsurfing

Lenin Peak Kyrgyzstan

Tanzania

Pemba – Fundu Lagoon

Pakistan, Karakoram Highway

Chile, Atacama Desert, Villarrica Volcano, Pucon

Sicily, Mt. Etna

Ethiopia, Danakil Depression

Suir Blueway, Clonmel, Tipperary

Glassilaun Beach, Kilary, Renvyle Galway

White Strand, Mayo

Mweelrea, Mayo

Galway

Kerry

Cork

Clare

West of Ireland

Wild Atlantic Way

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