Giveaway Alert: Follow @Snacksandsuitcasespodcast on Instagram, find the giveaway post and tag a friend for your chance to win a signed copy of Ada's junior fiction series Mia Megastar! In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton sits down with Ada Nicodemou, Australian actress and Home and Away star, to talk all things family travel, parenting, and cultural connections. Ada shares her love for visiting her family roots in Greece and Cyprus, along with her favourite family-friendly destinations in Australia like Port Douglas and Palm Beach, the real-life Summer Bay! From the challenges of travelling with kids to the joys of cruising holidays, Ada gives honest tips and personal stories that will inspire any parent planning their next adventure. The conversation also explores Ada’s passion for food and Greek cuisine, her treasured reading habits while on the road, and how her experiences on Home and Away have influenced her outlook on travel and life as a working mother. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why cruising is an ideal holiday option for families The importance of food and culture in Ada’s travels Tips for managing long flights and packing with kids Ada’s favourite spots in Sydney for family outings How travel deepens family connections and cultural heritage Ada’s love of reading and writing as part of her travel journey Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ada Nicodemou 01:25 Ada's Love for Travel and Family Destinations 06:53 Experiences on Home and Away and Travel Inspirations 09:40 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Challenges 19:36 Cruising Adventures and Family Fun 26:45 Cultural Connections: Cyprus and Greece 32:36 Food Memories and Culinary Adventures 37:47 Reading and Writing: Ada's Literary Journey 51:54 Local Sydney Favorites and Family Activities 56:49 Fast Five: Quick Travel Preferences What we mentioned Quicksilver Tours Nth Qld Grecian Park Hotel Grecian park Hotel near Konnos Bay in Cyprus - Ada's fave hideway Ttappis Tavern Ada's favourite Cheap Eats in Cyrpus Follow Ada on Instagram @adanicodemou Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!
Planning a family trip to Japan? In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton welcomes back Jo McGregor from The Tokyo Chapter to share her best advice for parents traveling with kids. From booking hotels and navigating public transport to cultural experiences and must-have travel apps, Jo covers everything you need to know before taking your family to Japan. You’ll learn how to plan your trip, avoid common mistakes, and make your travels smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, or exploring beyond, this episode is packed with practical insights to help parents create unforgettable memories with their kids in Japan. ✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to plan and organise your family trip to Japan The best times of year to visit Japan with kids Why booking hotels in Japan often starts six months ahead Tips for navigating public transport with children How to handle cash, budgeting, and local customs Family-friendly activities, from Disneyland to cultural spots The role of apps and pocket Wi-Fi in stress-free travel Luggage forwarding services and how they make travel easier Answers to real listener questions about Japan family travel 📌 Key Takeaways: Japan is safe and family-friendly, but planning makes all the difference Public holidays can lead to crowds—plan around them Research airport transport before arrival Technology like Google Maps and Mama Papa Map are game-changers for parents Cultural experiences can be enjoyable for kids with the right pacing Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Season 2 00:56 Traveling to Japan with Kids 09:55 Planning Your Trip to Japan 16:24 Booking Essentials for Japan 20:00 Disneyland and Family-Friendly Activities 24:01 Cultural Experiences and Local Insights 30:03 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Tricks 37:44 Pre-Travel Preparations 46:03 Cash and Budgeting in Japan 49:33 Technology and Apps for Travelers 55:02 Listener Questions and Answers Things we mentioned Ecbo Luggage Storage App https://cloak.ecbo.io/en Mama Papa Map App https://apps.apple.com/au/app/mamapapamap-nursing-room-map/id1117756080 Pokemon Hotel https://mimaruhotels.com/en/news/stay-pokemonroom/ Strange Robot Dinosaur Hotels https://group.hennnahotel.com/ What to Pack for Japan with Kids https://www.thetokyochapter.com/packing-for-tokyo-with-kids/ Contact Jo: @thetokyochapter thetokyochapter.com Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!
In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton reflects on the best moments from the season, answering listener questions and sharing valuable travel tips for families. From skiing adventures in Australia to exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo. Sally discusses practical advice for keeping kids entertained during long journeys, preventing meltdowns and travel with teens. The episode concludes with delightful travel stories shared by kids, highlighting the magic of family adventures. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Snacks and Suitcases 00:55 Community and Connection in Travel 01:53 Skiing Tips for Families 06:06 Exploring Tokyo with Kids 10:05 Cruising: A Family-Friendly Adventure 12:23 Disney and Family Travel Memories 14:38 The Impact of Travel on Children 16:26 Traveling Around Australia: A Family Journey 18:21 Embracing the Chaos of Family Travel 19:43 Keeping Kids Entertained on the Go 23:52 Preventing Meltdowns While Traveling 26:15 Engaging Teenagers in Travel 28:58 Cruise Ships and Family Fun 30:25 Kids Share Their Travel Highlights Topics we mentioned Montessori Travel Bag Travel Tray Bolt Sea Coaster Spotto Books Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Snacks And Suitcases Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com Subscribe, review and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of travel! AND... Don't forget your snacks!
Podcast Alert!! There's a Dad on the podcast! A first for Snacks and Suitcases! Sally is joined by Aussie TV favourite Luke Jacobz, who has an impressive list of credits to his name. From his iconic role as Angelo Rosetta on Home and Away, and Patrick Brewer on McLeod’s Daughters to hosting The X Factor and winning Dancing with the Stars not once but twice! Luke has also appeared on I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! and most recently as a presenter on Sydney Weekender. But these days, Luke’s playing his most important and heartwarming role yet: dad. With an almost two-year-old daughter and baby boy on the way, Luke shares his dad life adventures and what it’s really like to travel with tiny humans. From lost teddies and long-haul flights to car snacks and Disneyland! Plus, Luke and Sally take a fun trip down memory lane, reminiscing about their days on kids’ TV, and Luke lifts the lid on behind-the-scenes moments from Home and Away, The X Factor, and more. We chat about: • Travelling with a toddler (and why it’s never as easy as you think) • The unexpected joys (and chaos) of theme parks with little ones • His favourite dad hacks for road trips and flights • The importance of backup bunnies • Why California is the perfect kid-friendly destination • And yes, what’s really under the car seat... Plus: • Luke’s dream destinations • The snack he always packs • And whether he’s a backpack or suitcase kind of guy Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Family Travel with Luke Jacobs 01:52 Navigating Parenting and Travel 09:27 Life Changes with Parenthood 13:01 Traveling with a Toddler 20:05 California: A Family-Friendly Destination 25:14 Experiencing Disney with Kids 31:34 Lessons Learned from Travel Mistakes 38:49 Travel Tips for Parents 42:31 Future Travel Plans and Aspirations Instagram @LukeJacobz Sydney Weekender Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com Follow, review and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of travel. AND... Don't forget your snacks!
The Big Lap : Family Road Trip Around Australia In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton speaks with Simone Skinner Smith about her family's adventurous journey around Australia in a caravan. They discuss the preparation and planning involved, the challenges of van life, and the incredible experiences they've had along the way, including swimming with whale sharks and meeting unique characters like Cat Man! Simone shares insights on the importance of the caravanning community, the realities of living off-grid, and the lessons learned during their travels. The conversation highlights the joys and struggles of family travel, making it a relatable and inspiring listen for anyone considering a similar adventure. Chapters 00:00 The Big Lap Around Australia 02:48 Preparing for the Journey 05:57 The Spark of Adventure 08:45 The Reality of Van Life 11:48 Building Community on the Road 14:47 Wild Encounters and Nature 17:45 The Kids' Experience 20:47 Living Off-Grid 23:50 Memorable Highlights 26:45 Unexpected Adventures 29:47 Lessons Learned 32:44 Family Dynamics on the Road 35:41 Final Thoughts and Advice Contact Simone Instagram @biglappers Topics we mentioned Ku-rin-gai Chase National Park Off The Grid Caravan Hire Beau and Bunny's Adventures Strange Catman of the Nullarbor @catman6701 Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com Follow, review and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of a Big Lap! AND... Don't forget your snacks!
Multimedia journalist and host of the Onboard with Cruise Passenger Podcast Rose Kelly joins Sally Stanton for a fun, and myth busting chat about what it’s really like to take your kids on a cruise. From surf simulators and skydiving tubes to bunk-bed cabins, organic and fresh food dining, to sneaky tips for boarding with kids this is your ultimate guide to cruising as a family, a big family! Yep they also cover why cruising is the perfect solution to traveling with grandparents and more! Rose is not just a cruise pro, she’s also a mum of two girls, and she shares real-life experiences, clever hacks, and her top picks for kid friendly cruise lines. Whether you're already cruise curious or completely unsure, this episode will make you block out the noise pack your bags and set sail. Contact Rose – Writer forcruisepassenger.com.au – Instagram/Facebook:@RoseKellyOfficial In this episode, we cover: Why cruises aren’t just for retirees • What’s really on board: kids clubs with dodgems, mini golf, laser tag & surf simulators • Cabin tips: adjoining rooms, bunks for kids & must-request extras • What to pack (and what to leave at home) when cruising with babies and toddlers • Healthy food onboard – yes, your kids can still get their veggie sticks • What you didn’t know you’d love about cruising (spoiler: it's the crew) • Seasickness, safety, strollers, snacks and surprising perks • How to fast-track boarding with little ones • The truth about cruise ship jails (yep, they exist!) • The joy of unpacking once and visiting multiple destinations • Why cruising might be the most affordable family holiday you’ve never considered Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of a cruise! AND... Don't forget your snacks!
In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton chats with travel writer and tour founder Evie Farrell , the inspiring solo mum who left her corporate job to backpack the world with her daughter. Evie shares the story behind Mum Pack Travel and how a one-year trip turned into three. From budgeting and packing light to schooling struggles and unforgettable global adventures, this episode is packed with honest advice and motivation for families dreaming of travel. You'll learn: How Evie funded long term travel with a child The realities of schooling on the road Her top tips for budget friendly family travel Where to go for epic experiences with kids (China, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and more!) Why Club Med and cruises work brilliantly for parents! How travel builds resilience and independence in children Whether you’re dreaming of a gap year with your kids, planning a family adventure, or just want to know how to travel smarter, this episode will inspire you to take the leap. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:14 The Decision to Travel 06:30 Traveling with a Child 10:16 Education on the Road 14:02 Experiences and Challenges 18:57 Memorable Moments and Lessons Learned 28:25 Affordable Family Living vs. Daycare Costs 30:17 The Ease of Traveling with Kids 32:41 From Backpacker to Influencer: A Journey of Growth 34:35 Creating Community for Solo Moms 36:57 Empowering Women Through Travel 39:32 Travelling to Luxurious Destinations 42:33 Budgeting Tips for Travelers 46:51 Travelling with Picky Eaters 52:11 The Best Age for Backpacking Adventures 54:59 Final Words of Wisdom for Parents Topics mentioned: Backyard to Backpack Book Mum Pack Trips Royal Caribbean Cruise Find Evie on Instagram: @mumpacktravel @mumpacktrips Learn about her women and family group trips: mumpacktrips.com Connect with Sally! Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of travel AND... Don't forget your snacks!
Thinking about a snow holiday with your kids but not sure where to start? In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton is joined by snow guru, fellow ex-snow reporter, and mum of two Christie Hampton. Christie has spent years living and working in ski resorts around the world and now calls the Snowy Mountains home. Christie shares her top tips for planning a smooth and fun family ski trip You’ll learn: What age kids should start skiing (and when to wait) What snow gear to rent vs buy The truth about ski school (and why you should “drop and run”) Pocket snacks, hot chocolate hacks & high-value bribery How to choose the right Aussie ski resort—budget or bougie Plus: genius tips like dress rehearsals, air tags, and carabiners for chaos control From Perisher to Thredbo, Charlotte Pass and even to Japan’s powdery slopes, this episode is your ultimate guide to snow trips with little ones in tow. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Family Skiing Adventures 01:58 Christy's Journey in the Snow Industry 06:12 Building Resilience Through Skiing 12:06 Preparing for Your First Snow Holiday 16:42 Choosing the Right Age for Kids to Ski 21:20 Finding the Best Ski Resorts for Families 28:39 Luxurious Ski Holiday Destinations 29:30 Exploring Niseko: A Family Ski Destination 32:10 The Apres Ski Scene: Fun Beyond the Slopes 33:35 Activities Off the Slopes: Keeping Kids Engaged 36:46 Skiing with Kids: Tips and Hacks for Parents 46:21 Budget-Friendly Ski Holidays: Planning for Families 52:41 Preparing Kids for Skiing: Building Excitement 54:25 Final Thoughts: The Joy of Family Ski Trips Contact Christie via christie@snowymountains.com.au OR @snowymountainsnsw Topics we mentioned Tourism Snowy Mountains Snow books for kids Corin Forest Charlotte Pass Perisher Ski Resort Thredbo Wild Brumby Distillery Prince Hirafutei Hotel Niseko Livigno Ski Resort Italy Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com Subscribe, rate and share with a friend who is dreaming of snow fun with their fam! AND... Don't forget your snacks!
Sally continues her chat with Jo from the popular blog The Tokyo Chapter, diving into the best family-friendly experiences in Japan. From must-try dishes like shabu shabu to belting out tunes in a Tokyo karaoke booth, Jo shares her top tips for travelling with kids. You'll also hear her advice on managing food allergies, visiting big-ticket attractions like TeamLab and Tokyo Disneyland, and of course, the tastiest Japanese snacks to try along the way! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Japan with Kids 01:28 Must-See Attractions and Experiences 04:45 Culinary Adventures: Shabu Shabu and Sukiyaki 10:48 Navigating Dietary Restrictions in Japan 17:09 Cultural Etiquette and Travel Tips 19:48 Tourist Attractions: Worth It or Overrated? 22:50 Interactive Art Experiences: Team Lab 24:30 Choosing Between Attractions: Team Lab vs. Disney 25:01 The Magic of Disney: A Family Perspective 30:25 Navigating Japan: Tips for First-Time Visitors 35:51 Understanding Accommodation in Japan 39:04 Weather Considerations for Traveling in Japan 41:49 Final Tips for Family Travel in Japan Contact Jo The Tokyo Chapter Blog: thetokyochapter.com Follow Jo on Instagram @thetokyochapter Or Facebook Topics we mentioned Kinosaki Onsen Rainbow Karaoke Shabu Shabu Happy Cow App Gluten Free in Japan Facebook Group TeamLab Tokyo Mart Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!
In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, Sally sits down with Jo MacGregor, the creator of the beloved travel blog The Tokyo Chapter, to dive into everything you need to know about visiting Japan with kids. From toddler friendly itineraries to why you absolutely should bring a stroller. This episode is packed with firsthand experience and honest advice for navigating Japan as a family. Whether you're planning your first visit or your fifth, you'll walk away with practical tips on where to stay, how to eat well without breaking the bank, and the magical details that make Japan one of the most kid-friendly travel destinations in the world. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Japan: A Family Travel Adventure 03:03 The Tokyo Chapter: A Resource for Families 06:05 Why Japan is a Family-Friendly Destination 08:54 Navigating Japan with Kids: Strollers and More 11:57 Making the Most of Your Japan Trip 14:47 Accommodation Choices: Hotels vs. Ryokans vs. Airbnbs 17:52 Luggage Forwarding: A Game Changer for Travelers 29:34 Kidzania: A Fun Experience for Kids 32:02 Choosing the Right Neighbourhood in Tokyo 35:16 Family-Friendly Accommodations in Tokyo 37:57 Exploring Harajuku: An Ideal Itinerary 41:05 Planning for Early Mornings in Tokyo 43:13 Budget-Friendly Tips for Traveling in Japan 49:11 The Importance of Playgrounds for Family Travel The Tokyo Chapter blog: thetokyochapter.com Follow Jo on Instagram @thetokyochapter Or Facebook Robot Park Kidzania Wanpaku Land Harajuku Itinerary My Mizu App Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!
Travelling with kids just got easier! Snacks and Suitcases is packed with advice, tips & laughs. Hosted by TV presenter Sally Stanton. Coming soon!
We LOVE Sydney! In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, TV presenter and radio favourite Lizzy Lovette joins host Sally Stanton to co-host a deep dive into their hometown of Sydney, Australia. As fellow Sydney Weekender reporters (and mums), they share why Sydney is one of the world’s best family destinations. From must-see icons like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge to hidden gems only locals know, Lizzy and Sally swap tips on outdoor adventures, cultural hotspots, kid-approved dining, and unique experiences you won’t want to miss. For first-time visitors or locals looking for fresh ideas, this episode is your ultimate family guide to exploring Sydney. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Sydney: A Family Destination 02:43 Exploring Sydney's Iconic Sites 05:44 Family-Friendly Activities in Sydney 08:34 Hidden Gems and Local Favorites 11:41 Unique Experiences for Kids 14:37 Cultural and Artistic Adventures 17:41 Food and Dining with Kids 20:34 Outdoor and Nature Activities 23:35 Adrenaline-Pumping Adventures 26:21 Relaxing Getaways and Mini-Breaks 29:34 Tips for First-Time Visitors 32:22 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Contact Lizzy Lovette Instagram @lizzylovette Topics we mentioned Whalebridge Restaurant Sydney Harbour Bridgeclimb May Gibbs Nutcote High N Dry Burgers The Ark Haberfield Kids Night Out Sydney Weekender Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!
Snacks and Suitcases: Travelling with Kids Podcast is taking a short break , but we’ll be back soon with fresh family travel tips, advice, and real life stories to make holidays with kids easier (and way more fun!). Coming up in the next season. Japan with kids – from the basics to Osaka and Kyoto Disneyland with kids – how to make the magic stress-free All-inclusive family holidays – where to go and what to expect Travelling with teens – tips for keeping older kids happy on holiday Plus, a few Aussie celebrities reveal their favourite family travel secrets! We also have a super fun giveaway for the kids! 👉 Make sure you stay subscribed so you don’t miss our upcoming episodes packed with family-friendly travel ideas and expert advice. Connect Thank you so much for listening! 💗I'd love to hear from you, please share your questions, tips, or travel stories with me: 📸 Instagram: @snacksandsuitcasespodcast | @sallynanamis 📘 Facebook Snacks and Suitcases or email a voice memo to 📧 Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 💙 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast with a fellow parent who’s dreaming of travel! And of course… don’t forget your snacks!