The Port 2 Port Podcast

In this episode of Port2Port, I’m taking you with us to Busan, South Korea — a stop we explored completely on our own, without booking a single excursion.We arrived into port under the stunning Busan Harbor Bridge before taking the free shuttle into the city and navigating the subway like locals.From diving into the world of Korean skincare at Olive Young, to relaxing over coffee, to sitting down for one of the best traditional Korean BBQ meals we’ve ever had, this day had the perfect mix of culture, food, and relaxed exploring. We finished with a stroll around the waterfront before heading back to the ship, full and happy.If you’re cruising to Busan soon — or wondering whether it’s easy to explore independently — this episode will show you exactly what to expect and why a DIY day in this city might be one of the highlights of your cruise.Follow @port2portpodcast and @travelcruiserepeat on Instagram for more cruise stories, behind-the-scenes clips, and travel updates!

Join Ronan as he takes you through one of the most powerful and unforgettable days of his travels — a journey from the serene beauty of Miyajima Island to the deeply moving history of Hiroshima.In this episode, we explore the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate, wander through the peaceful streets of Miyajima, and then shift to Hiroshima’s historic center, visiting the Atomic Bomb Dome, the Peace Memorial Park, and the Peace Memorial Museum.This is an episode filled with reflection, humanity, and perspective — a reminder of the resilience of a city and the importance of remembering its story.Whether you're planning a cruise to Japan, dreaming of future travels, or simply interested in destinations with meaning, this episode offers insight, emotion, and a journey you won’t forget.Follow Ronan on Instagram at @port2portpodcast and @travelcruiserepeat for more travel stories and behind-the-scenes moments.

On this episode of Port2Port, I take you on Celebrity Cruises’ Kochi Sightseeing excursion. Explore dramatic coastlines, an ancient temple, a lively local food market, and one of Japan’s original castles. Get insider tips, cultural insights, and stories from a day spent discovering Kochi’s charm.Follow me on Instagram at @travelcruiserepeat for more travel tips and cruise adventures

In this episode, I take you inside the incredible world of Universal Studios Japan and the magical Super Nintendo World in Osaka. I chat about everything from how to get there, what you need to know before visiting, and the best strategy for getting on the most popular rides. From Mario Kart to Yoshi’s Adventure, I share my experience navigating the park, using the app, and making the most of your time.We also dive into the food and drink offerings around the park — including grabbing a bite at McDonald’s, trying themed snacks, and what to expect when eating inside and outside the park.On Day Two, I step outside the theme parks to explore Osaka’s cultural side. I visit the iconic Osaka Castle, walk through its beautiful grounds, and then head to one of Japan’s oldest and most historically significant shrines — Sumiyoshi Taisha. I discuss what to see, how to get there, and the unique atmosphere that makes this shrine so memorable.Whether you're planning a trip to Osaka or just want to follow along on the adventure, this episode is packed with tips, stories, and everything you need to know!🔗 Follow me on Instagram:@port2portpodcast@travelcruiserepeat

Join Ronan on Port2Port as he explores Shimizu, Japan on Celebrity Millennium! From the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre, to the panoramic Nihondaira Observatory, this episode is packed with sightseeing, culture, and insider tips.Hear about all the Celebrity shore excursions in Shimizu, plus get a glimpse of onboard fun — drum performances, sail-out fireworks, private loyalty events, and a Broadway-style show.Whether you love history, nature, or scenic views, this episode gives you a complete picture of a perfect day in Japan on a Celebrity cruise.Follow Ronan for more cruise adventures:Instagram: @port2portpodcastInstagram: @travelcruiserepeat

In this episode of Port2Port, Ronan shares the full story of embarkation day — leaving his Tokyo hotel, taking a taxi down to Yokohama, navigating the baggage process, and stepping aboard Celebrity Millennium to begin a 12 night cruise around Japan.Expect plenty of practical tips along the way, from how to handle luggage and transfers to what to expect at Yokohama’s cruise terminal. Ronan also shares his first impressions of the ship, his cabin experience, and that unforgettable first sail-away from Yokohama Bay.Whether you’re planning your own Japanese cruise or just love hearing what it’s really like boarding a ship in Japan, this episode brings you right along for the ride.Follow me on Instagram: @port2portpodcast | @travelcruiserepeat

Join Ronan on his last day in Tokyo as he explores some of the city’s most iconic spots. Stroll through Shibuya Crossing, take in the panoramic views from Shibuya Sky, and capture photos of the towering Tokyo Tower from Shiba Park.Pop culture fans will love visits to the Pokémon Center and Nintendo Store, while food lovers will enjoy discovering Tokyo’s vibrant food halls and local treats. Along the way, Ronan shares practical tips and reflections from this unforgettable day in Japan’s capital.Next week, he sets sail on 12 nights aboard the Celebrity Millennium, sharing all the highlights from that cruise.Follow along on Instagram @port2portpodcast or @travelcruiserepeat for more travel and cruise adventures!

Join me on Day 4 in Tokyo as we dive into the city’s vibrant contrasts! From sipping an iced caramel latte and indulging in Princi cream cake at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, to reflecting at the serene Togo Shrine, exploring the colorful madness of Takeshita Street with its themed cafés and long fried potatoes, hunting retro toys solo at Nakano Sun Mall, enjoying a hearty katsu curry dinner at MonSnack, and finishing the day with an epic three-hour shopping spree at Don Quijote – this episode is packed with culture, food, and fun.Follow me for more Tokyo adventures and behind-the-scenes snaps on Instagram @port2portpodcast and @travelcruiserepeat. Don’t miss out – Tokyo never sleeps, and neither does the adventure!”

Join me on Day 3 of our Tokyo adventure as we explore the perfect mix of tradition, pop culture, and neon nightlife! 🌸We start the day at Maikoya in Asakusa for an intimate Kimono Tea Ceremony, then dive into the colorful world of Sanrio Gift Gate for Hello Kitty and friends. After refueling at a Japanese convenience store, we visit the spiritual heart of Tokyo at Sensō-ji Temple and even make a quick stop at JINS for new glasses – ready in just an hour!As night falls, we head to Shinjuku, marveling at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building light show, exploring neon-lit streets, and wandering the iconic Golden Gai bars. From centuries-old traditions to quirky pop culture and vibrant nightlife, this episode captures Tokyo’s incredible contrasts.Follow me on Instagram for photos and updates: @port2portpodcast | @travelcruiserepeatDon’t forget to like, share, and follow – and join me next week for Day 4 in Tokyo, packed with even more sights, sounds, and experiences!

Join me as I take you on a magical day at Tokyo Disneyland! From arriving early at the park, tackling the famous Baymax ride, exploring It’s a Small World, and visiting the Beauty and the Beast ride, to enjoying the Tiki Room and the amazing food in Disney Village — this episode has it all. I share tips on using Fast Passes, navigating the park with the Tokyo Disneyland app, and how to make the most out of a one-day visit.We round out the day with the Electric Light Parade, featuring over a million lights, dazzling floats, and beloved Disney characters — a show that’s perfect for everyone.📌 Follow me on Instagram for photos and updates:@port2portpodcast@travelcruiserepeatIf you love Disney, travel, or just want a day full of fun and adventure in Tokyo, this episode is for you!

In this first episode of Season 3, I take you through my journey from Cork to Tokyo, flying into Haneda Airport with Japan Airlines. I share the experience of arriving in Japan, checking into my hotel in Shinjuku, and heading straight out to explore.I talk about visiting convenience stores for the first time, using the Tokyo subway with a PASMO card, and staying connected with an eSIM. The highlight of the day was TeamLab Planets, followed by shopping at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza shopping centre , seeing the giant Unicorn Gundam, and finishing the evening with dinner overlooking the Rainbow Bridge.This episode covers the very start of my three–week trip to Japan.The Link to the neck rest I spoke abouthttps://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CFV5LZ3R?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1🎙️ Podcast Instagram: @port2portpodcast🌍 Travel & Cruise Instagram: @travelcruiserepeat

Join host Ronan Ryan for a powerful and inspiring conversation with Laura Grier — a world-traveling photographer, writer, and social entrepreneur who has worked in over 100 countries capturing the beauty and complexity of our world.From her early career with National Geographic to launching Andeana Hats, a social enterprise supporting female artisans in Peru, Laura shares her story, creative process, wildest travel moments, and advice for living a life full of purpose, passion, and adventure.🎒 Expect tales of resilience, cultural connection, creativity behind the camera, and how ethical travel can change lives.📸 Follow Laura Grier:Instagram: @lauragriertravelWebsite: www.lauragrier.comAndeana Hats: www.andeanahats.com🎙️ Follow Me (Ronan Ryan / Port2Port):Instagram: @port2portpodcast & @explorecruiserepeatTikTok: @explorecruiserepeatThreads: @explorecruiserepeatX (Twitter): @port2portpodFacebook: The Port2Port Podcast

This week on Port2Port, Ronan welcomes Sheri Griffiths, the powerhouse behind CruiseTipsTV, for a deep dive into the world of cruising, content creation, and building a trusted community of travelers.Sheri shares the story of how a simple passion for cruising turned into one of the most loved cruise brands online. We chat about her favorite ships, tips for first-time cruisers, the rise of luxury cruising like The Haven, and the realities of life as a full-time content creator.If you love cruises, travel, or just a good origin story, this is one you won't want to miss! 🌎⚓️Follow Sheri and CruiseTipsTV here:🌐 Website: www.cruisetipstv.com📺 YouTube: youtube.com/CruiseTipsTV📸 Instagram: instagram.com/cruisetipstv🛍 Amazon Storefront: amazon.com/shop/cruisetipstvFollow me on Instagram @port2portpodcast and @explorecruiserepeat for more travel and cruise stories. 🌎⚓

In this episode, I'm joined by one of the most trusted voices in the cruise industry – Gary Bembridge, the creator of Tips For Travellers. With decades of travel experience and a massive following across YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and his blog, Gary shares invaluable insights for both seasoned cruisers and first-timers alike.From his favourite cruise lines and ships to the biggest mistakes new cruisers make, Gary dives into what’s changing in the cruise world, the trends to watch in 2025, and his tips for making the most of every voyage.Whether you're dreaming of your first sailing or planning your tenth, this episode is packed with expert advice, behind-the-scenes stories, and a few laughs along the way.🔗 Connect with Gary Bembridge:🌐 Website: https://www.tipsfortravellers.com📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tipsfortravellers📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garybembridge/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tipsfortravellers

In this episode of Port2Port, I chat with Cassie Mead, host of Women at the Helm and a maritime professional, about her experiences working at sea. She shares what life is really like onboard, the challenges and rewards of a seafaring career, and how women are making waves in the cruise industry. From life behind the scenes, Cassie gives a fascinating look at the world beyond the passenger decks. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful conversation! 🚢Follow Cassie on Instagram @cas.sea_onboard & check out her Podcast, Women at the Helm on Spotify

Ever dreamed of traveling the world? In this episode of Port2Port, I chat with travel content creator Juliya Sokolova (@julie.travelholic), who has explored 86 countries and shares her adventures with thousands online. Juliya reveals how she turned her passion for travel into a lifestyle, her wildest experiences, and expert tips on budget travel and creating stunning travel content. Plus, she shares her favorite destinations, unexpected surprises, and a few travel mishaps along the way!Follow Juliya on Instagram: @julie.travelholicFollow Ronan on Instagram: @port2portpodcast & @explorecruiserepeat

In this episode of Port2Port, I sit down with Mark Wolters, the man behind Wolters World, one of YouTube’s most trusted travel channels with over 1.1 million subscribers. Known for his honest, no-BS travel advice, Mark shares the evolution of his channel, his best travel tips, and the biggest mistakes travelers make.We also talk about destinations that exceeded (or failed) expectations, how YouTube travel content is changing in 2025, and the travel hacks every explorer should know. Plus, Mark reveals his favorite underrated cities and dream destinations.Subscribe to Port2Port for more travel stories, insights, and expert interviews. Follow me on Instagram at @port2portpodcast and @explorecruiserepeat

In this episode of Port2Port, I’m joined by Raya from @raya.padel to dive into the world of Padel! We chat about how she got into the sport, the rapid rise of Padel worldwide, and her top tips for beginners. Plus, we explore her passion for travel—her favorite destinations and unforgettable cultural experiences. Whether you're a Padel fan, a travel lover, or both, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in now!

In this episode of Port2Port, I sit down with Meredith from Mer Cruises Solo, a seasoned solo cruiser who has sailed on 29 cruises, spent 200 days at sea, and explored 44 countries and territories! We dive into what inspired her solo cruising journey, her favorite destinations, top tips for cruising alone, and the highs and lows of life at sea. Plus, we chat about her YouTube channel and how she shares her adventures with the world. Tune in for expert insights, travel stories, and a celebration of solo cruising! 🎙️⚓ #SoloCruising #CruiseChat

In this episode of Port2Port, I sit down with Matthew, co-founder of The Cruise Maps, to chat about how his company helps cruise lovers track their voyages with stunning, customizable maps. We discuss the inspiration behind The Cruise Maps, how they work, and what’s next for the brand. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or just starting out, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!