PURE Vacations: The Travel Podcast

Welcome to the PURE Vacations Travel Podcast Join Wesley Baker and Dan Pratt for real travel stories, destination inspiration, insider travel tips and honest conversations from across the global travel industry. From unforgettable holidays and hidden gems to hotels, airlines, resorts, luxury travel, adventure and the people shaping tourism, PURE Vacations brings the world closer with every episode.In Episode 11 of the PURE Vacations Podcast, we head to southern Spain to explore one of Europe’s most famous and enduring destinations, the Costa del Sol. Known for its sunshine, beaches and Mediterranean lifestyle, the region also offers far more than many visitors first imagine, with historic towns, outstanding gastronomy, culture, nature and a growing range of experiences throughout the year. We’re joined by Natalia Boveda, Marketing Executive at Visit Costa del Sol, alongside Dan Pratt and host Wesley Baker. Together, we explore how the destination has evolved, what continues to make it so popular with international visitors, and why the Costa del Sol remains one of Spain’s most versatile regions. Our conversation takes us beyond the coastline, looking at the character of Málaga and the surrounding towns and villages, the importance of food and local culture, outdoor experiences, golf, wellness and the appeal of travelling outside the traditional summer season. We also discuss how the Costa del Sol balances its long-established reputation with a more diverse and modern tourism offering, attracting visitors looking for everything from relaxing beach holidays and city breaks to luxury travel, active escapes and authentic Andalusian experiences. This episode is an invitation to rediscover a destination many people think they already know. The Costa del Sol may be famous for its sunshine, but as Natalia explains, there is much more waiting beyond the beach.Love travel? Join the PURE Vacations community. Subscribe to the PURE Vacations Travel Podcast so you never miss a new episode, and follow us as we explore incredible destinations, travel experiences, industry stories and the people behind them. Discover more travel inspiration, stories and ideas at PURE Vacations. Listen. Explore. Travel.

Welcome to the PURE Vacations Travel Podcast Join Wesley Baker and Dan Pratt for real travel stories, destination inspiration, insider travel tips and honest conversations from across the global travel industry. From unforgettable holidays and hidden gems to hotels, airlines, resorts, luxury travel, adventure and the people shaping tourism, PURE Vacations brings the world closer with every episode.In Episode 10 of the PURE Vacations Podcast, we travel to one of Japan’s most exciting, energetic and character-filled cities, exploring the many sides of Osaka. Famous for its food, welcoming atmosphere, vibrant neighbourhoods and rich cultural heritage, Osaka offers visitors a very different experience of Japan and one that is full of personality. We’re joined by Eriko Tateishi of Osaka Tourism, alongside Dan Pratt and host Wesley Baker. Together, we explore what makes Osaka such a compelling destination and why it deserves a place on the itinerary of anyone looking to experience Japan beyond the traditional highlights. Our conversation takes us through Osaka’s extraordinary food culture, from street food and local favourites to the city’s reputation as one of Japan’s great culinary destinations. We also discuss its historic landmarks, lively entertainment districts, shopping, nightlife and the distinctive character that makes Osaka feel both exciting and remarkably approachable. Along the way, we look at how Osaka works as a destination in its own right, as well as an excellent base for exploring the wider Kansai region. From traditional culture and modern city life to world-class attractions and memorable local experiences, Osaka offers an impressive variety of reasons to stay longer and explore more deeply. This episode is an invitation to discover a city that is bold, warm, entertaining and unmistakably Japanese. Osaka may sometimes sit in the shadow of Tokyo and Kyoto, but as Eriko explains, it has an identity, energy and spirit entirely of its own.Love travel? Join the PURE Vacations community. Subscribe to the PURE Vacations Travel Podcast so you never miss a new episode, and follow us as we explore incredible destinations, travel experiences, industry stories and the people behind them. Discover more travel inspiration, stories and ideas at PURE Vacations. Listen. Explore. Travel.

Welcome to the PURE Vacations Travel Podcast Join Wesley Baker and Dan Pratt for real travel stories, destination inspiration, insider travel tips and honest conversations from across the global travel industry. From unforgettable holidays and hidden gems to hotels, airlines, resorts, luxury travel, adventure and the people shaping tourism, PURE Vacations brings the world closer with every episode.In Episode 9 of the PURE Vacations Podcast, we travel to one of Germany’s most elegant and distinctive destinations, exploring the timeless appeal of Baden-Baden. Nestled on the edge of the Black Forest, this beautiful spa town combines wellness, culture, gastronomy and nature in a way that has attracted visitors from around the world for generations. We’re joined by Lisa Günter, Global Marketing & Communication Manager at Baden-Baden Tourism, alongside Dan Pratt and host Wesley Baker. Together, we explore what makes Baden-Baden such a special destination and why it continues to appeal to travellers looking for something refined, relaxing and culturally rich. Our conversation takes us through the city’s famous spa heritage, its elegant architecture, beautiful parks and gardens, outstanding cultural scene and its close connection to the surrounding Black Forest. We also discuss how Baden-Baden has evolved for the modern traveller while retaining the character, history and sense of occasion that have made it so well known. Along the way, we look at the wider experience of visiting Baden-Baden, from wellness and gastronomy to walking, nature, arts and luxury travel. It is a destination that works equally well for a relaxing short break, a romantic escape or as part of a wider journey through southwest Germany. This episode is an invitation to discover a destination where wellbeing, culture and natural beauty come together effortlessly. Baden-Baden may be famous for its spas, but as Lisa explains, there is far more to experience in this remarkable corner of Germany.Love travel? Join the PURE Vacations community. Subscribe to the PURE Vacations Travel Podcast so you never miss a new episode, and follow us as we explore incredible destinations, travel experiences, industry stories and the people behind them. Discover more travel inspiration, stories and ideas at PURE Vacations. Listen. Explore. Travel.

Welcome to the PURE Vacations Travel Podcast Join Wesley Baker and Dan Pratt for real travel stories, destination inspiration, insider travel tips and honest conversations from across the global travel industry. From unforgettable holidays and hidden gems to hotels, airlines, resorts, luxury travel, adventure and the people shaping tourism, PURE Vacations brings the world closer with every episode.In this episode of the PURE Vacations Podcast, we journey to one of Africa’s most spectacular and rewarding destinations, exploring the extraordinary landscapes, wildlife and culture of Zambia. From vast national parks and legendary rivers to one of the natural wonders of the world, Zambia offers a remarkable combination of adventure, authenticity and unforgettable safari experiences. We’re joined by Doris Shupekile Kofi, First Secretary Tourism at the High Commission of the Republic of Zambia, alongside Dan Pratt and host Wesley Baker. Together, we explore what makes Zambia such a distinctive destination and why it deserves to be much higher on the list for travellers looking to experience Africa at its most natural and inspiring. Our conversation takes us through Zambia’s incredible safari offering, including its renowned national parks, exceptional wildlife and its reputation as the birthplace of the walking safari. We also explore the mighty Zambezi River and the breathtaking Victoria Falls, one of the world’s great natural spectacles and an experience that continues to captivate travellers from across the globe. Along the way, we discuss Zambia’s warm welcome, rich culture and the diversity of experiences available beyond the traditional safari. From river adventures and remote wilderness lodges to extraordinary wildlife encounters and peaceful landscapes, Zambia offers the opportunity to experience Africa with space, freedom and a genuine sense of discovery. This episode is an invitation to discover a country where nature remains powerful, wildlife encounters feel wonderfully authentic and every journey has the potential to become an adventure. For travellers seeking a deeper and more memorable African experience, Zambia has an enormous amount to offer.Love travel? Join the PURE Vacations community. Subscribe to the PURE Vacations Travel Podcast so you never miss a new episode, and follow us as we explore incredible destinations, travel experiences, industry stories and the people behind them. Discover more travel inspiration, stories and ideas at PURE Vacations. Listen. Explore. Travel.

Welcome to the PURE Vacations Travel Podcast Join Wesley Baker and Dan Pratt for real travel stories, destination inspiration, insider travel tips and honest conversations from across the global travel industry. From unforgettable holidays and hidden gems to hotels, airlines, resorts, luxury travel, adventure and the people shaping tourism, PURE Vacations brings the world closer with every episode.In this episode of the PURE Vacations Podcast, we journey to one of Africa’s most beautiful and least-discovered destinations, shining a spotlight on the magic of Malawi. Often called the Warm Heart of Africa, Malawi offers a rare blend of uncrowded safaris, welcoming communities, and breathtaking natural beauty. We’re joined by Kelly White, who leads the promotion of Malawi in the UK, alongside Dan Pratt and host Wesley Baker. Together, we explore why Malawi remains one of the last great pre-tourism destinations in Africa, where wildlife still roams freely, landscapes feel untouched, and travel moves at a gentler, more meaningful pace. Our conversation takes you deep into Malawi’s safari experiences, from elephants, lions and hippos to the powerful conservation stories bringing wildlife back to its natural home. We also dive into the extraordinary beauty of Lake Malawi, where tropical beaches, clear waters and vibrant marine life create an experience few people ever expect to find in Africa. Along the way, we talk about what truly makes Malawi special, from its warm-hearted people and rich culture to the feeling of discovering somewhere that has not yet been shaped by mass tourism. This episode is an invitation to see Africa differently, through a destination that offers adventure, serenity and authenticity in equal measure.Love travel? Join the PURE Vacations community. Subscribe to the PURE Vacations Travel Podcast so you never miss a new episode, and follow us as we explore incredible destinations, travel experiences, industry stories and the people behind them. Discover more travel inspiration, stories and ideas at PURE Vacations. Listen. Explore. Travel.