Okay, 2024 might not officially be over but some of us are already planning a trip/s for 2025. In this podcast, the last for the year, travel writer Natascha Mirosch talks a little about where she visited in 2024 but also offer some suggestions of trips and destinations you might like to put on your wish list - from cruising the Amazon to a new Orient Express luxury train journey, visiting the home of the world’s most famous cartoon dog and more. You'll find links to the places mentioned in the podcast on the ExtraVirgin Food & Travel website.  

Sonya Gellert has the enviable job of being a full-time food writer. She’s done a host of fabulous things throughout a career that's taken her from Australia to Japan, the UK and back to Australia.  She's been a travel editor, restaurant reviewer, editorial food and drink writer, copywriter and recipe editor. She’s written for Table Magazine UK, Escape magazine, delicious Magazine, Vogue Living, Huffington Post and more and worked with food luminaries such as Rachel Khoo and Donna Hay.  We're going to hear about Sonya's career trajectory, what she likes to cook and eat, what makes a good recipe, her favourite cookbook and foodie travel destination, what are the most searched-for recipes and more. 

Thanks to the incredible popularity of the show White Lotus, Sicily is red hot right now. In this episode, Natascha Mirosch chats with Carmel Ruggeri, former restaurateur-turned-tour guide, who runs extremely popular tours to a part of Italy not only blessed with natural beauty, but some of the country's best regional cuisine (cannoli anyone?)   Carmel and Natascha chat about everything from the places you shouldn't miss, to the hand signs you should, never ever use, to the regional food specialities you just have to try.     Carmel tells it how it is, with humour and refreshing honesty, her love of Sicily shining through in this (very entertaining) episode.

Guy Grossi has carved out a distinguished career and made a significant contribution to the hospitality scene over the last forty years, both as a restaurateur and chef. In fact, in 1996, Guy was awarded the L'insegna Del Ristorante Italiano by no less than the president of Italy, for his dedication to presenting and promoting "La Cucina Italiana" and the Italian lifestyle. He’s written four cookbooks and has been on a slew of television programs, from "Food Safari" and Iron Chef, to "My Kitchen Rules." He also runs a small empire of highly regarded restaurants countrywide, including his flagship, Grossi Florentino. In this episode of ExtraVirgin, Natascha Mirosch and Guy chat all things food and hospitality, as well as Italian travel. They discuss why Italians don’t like penne lisce and the difference between fast and slow dried pasta, what’s wrong with the hospitality scene and how the financial crisis is affecting it, his favourite dishes from his Pugliese father and Venetian mother; who he'd invite and what he'd serve at a fantasy dinner party and more. Guy also gives us some great Italy travel and food tips - from the Amalfi Coast to Florence and Puglia.  

We've talked about those one Euro houses in Italy in a previous podcast (episode 81) but in this episode we’re about to revisit the subject (and the topic of buying property in Italy as a foreigner in general) with Michele Capecchi, a lawyer based in Florence, who has extensive experience in guiding foreigners through the red tape that is buying a property in Italy. Michele is managing partner of Studio Legale Capecchi , teaches  International Business Law at at the European School of Economics and has been a a legal columnist with The Florentine, the international magazine of the expat community in Florence for over 10 years. Michele discusses with Natascha:   The positives and pitfalls of the one Euro homes scheme The legalities of foreigner home ownership in Italy Where are good places to buy? How much are you likely to need to realistically spend, plus more.   If you're keen to find out how you can be enjoying la vita bella in Italy in your own home, you'll enjoy this episode. And don't forget to sign up for the ExtraVirgin newsletter "The Olive," on the website.      

Have you been thinking of (or dreaming about) taking an Antarctic cruise? Cruising is huge and estimates have the cruise industry growing by another 9% in 2024. For some regular cruisers, particularly those with large disposable incomes, the great white continent, represents just another an as-yet unexplored cruise destination to conquer.  For others, Antarctica is a long-cherished dream. But what’s it really like? What can you expect on a cruise to Antarctica? Natascha Mirosch puts that question to travel journalist Catherine Marshall, who has been to Antarctica not once, but twice. They discuss the dreaded Drake Crossing, life on board an expedition ship, Antarctica’s wildlife and shore excursions. Catherine tells us about the fascinating post office at the end of the world, and the British post mistresses who come to this remote spot to man it as well as the time she had a polar swim. They also talk about the environmental impacts and whether a visit can have a positive impact. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to cruise to Antarctica, have a listen.

We all know that getting out and communing with nature is good for both our body and our mental health, but where to start if you've never done any hiking but are keen to give it a go? Trekking, hiking, tramping, rambling or just plain walking - whatever you call if and whatever you aspire to, whether it's a kilometre on a flat countryside track to conquering rugged terrain over multiple days, or even taking it easy with a Great Walk of Australia, it's an activity that most of us can achieve.  If, like ExtraVirgin host, Natascha, however, you have lots of questions: (Am I too old? Am I too unfit? is hiking hazardous? What gear do I need? What happens if I get lost?) then listen up, because our guest on this podcast will answer all those questions and more.  Among her many other talents., Caro Ryan is an expert bushwalker and search and rescue volunteer. She started her blog, LotsaFreshAir.com to inspire, teach and encourage people to get into hiking and the outdoors safely. It’s all about connecting people to wild places in meaningful ways, so they can look after themselves, their mates and these precious places we visit. She teaches wilderness navigation, authored the book, ‘How to Navigate - the art of traditional map & compass navigation in an Australian context’ and hosts, ‘Rescued - an Outdoor Podcast for Hikers and Adventurers. In addition to imparting some incredibly useful  (and potentially life-saving) tips, Caro shares her genuine passion for getting out in nature. We guarantee that she will inspire you to want to do the same.   www.extravirginfoodandtravel.com/podcast  

Agnes Restaurant was recently awarded Restaurant of the Year by Australian Gourmet Traveller Restaurant. In this episode of ExtraVirgin, Natascha Mirosch chats with Agnes executive chef, Ben Williamson, who also co-owns other popular restaurants  Same Same, Bianca, Honto and Agnes Bakery. Western Australian-born Ben spent time travelling the Middle East, where he sharpenened his kitchen skills and learned about cooking from the heart - something that would become the cornerstone of his culinary philosophy.  On his return to Australia, he settled in Brisbane, working in some of the city's most highly regarded restaurants, including a lengthy tenture at Gerard's Bistro, where introduced the city to his modern re-imagining of the cuisine of The Levant, gaining the venue many accolades including two hats.  He then went on to establish Agnes, a wood-fired restaurant in a characterful, historic building; a restaurant generally regarded as the best in Brisbane.  In their chat, Natascha and Ben not only delve into his background, but discuss his food philosophy and influences, what he might have done differently in his career, food trends, where he likes to eat out, his future plans and more. 

Is South America on your wish list but you worry it might be too challenging or unsafe? In this episode, ExtraVirgin host, Natascha Mirosch  who has just returned from 3 weeks in Uruguay, Argentina and Chile, shares her experiences. Her trip, travelling by plane, car and boat, starts in Santiago in Chile, where she visits an extraordinary museum and wanders the vibrant Yungay and Lastarria barrios.  From there, she explores the Uruguayan capital, Montevideo, with its unique architecture and excellent restaurants, as well another fascinating museum dedicated to a famous and tragic incident in Uruguayan history. Then it’s onto a ferry across the widest river in the world, the Rio de la Plata to Buenos Aires.  Here Natascha discovers the origins of the tango, visits Eva Peron at Recoleta cemetery and the balcony of ‘the pink palace’ where she gave her final speech to the Argentinian people. She does a walking tour of the colourful La Boca district, takes i a beautiful bookshop in a theatre and more. In Patagonia, Natascha visits a glacier, attempts to hike up another one, gets up close with the iconic Fitz Roy, eats the world’s best lamb and drinks a liqueur made from a local berry in a bar at -15c. From there, it’s onto the province of Mendoza, where she stays in a ‘dome with a view’ overlooking the Andes, visits a couple of wineries and has an unforgettable horse ride with a gaucho. If you’ve thought of visiting South America, you’ll want to have a listen as Natascha shares the details of her new favourite destination.

Group travel needn't involve being shuttled around on 50-seater coaches, taken to the major sights to snap your instagram pics, then...back on the bus to do it all again. In this podcast, host Natascha Mirosch talks with Lisa Pagotto, founder of Crooked Compass who offer small group trips to some destinations that are definitely off the well-trod tourist path.   But, if you're usually an independent traveller, why would you consider group travel? It's one of the questions that Natascha poses to Lisa. They also discuss how the pandemic has shifted the way many people want to travel, who are the people who take small group tours, the cultural, economic and environmental advantages of travelling this way, as well as the destinations her company covers and more.   Lisa's just returned from Georgia, a country that's high on Natascha's bucket list, so they chat about it, including the top sights (turns out Georgia's mountains outdo the Swiss and French alps for hiking and wildlflower spotting.)   And wait until you hear what intrepid traveller Lisa's favourite travel experience ever is - we can guarantee it's somewhere you don't expect! 

Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses when we travel, but what if you could travel almost anywhere in the world and stay for free? Our guest on this episode of ExtraVirgin Food and Travel tells us how. Fiona Ryan has done more than a dozen exchanges, temporarily swapping her home in Brisbane, Australia for one in cities such as Helsinki or Barcelona.   Fiona, who's a volunteer regional coordinator with the world's oldest home exchange program, the not-for-profit "Intervac," chats with host Natascha Mirosch about how it's done; the multiple benefits of changing homes with someone and gives us her tips, gained from fifteen years’ experience.    So if you've got itchy feet, but not necessarily the budget for that holiday you’re dreaming of, this episode is for you.  

This episode of  Extra Virgin Food and Travel's "Postcards,"comes to you from the Republic of Ireland's capital, Dublin.  Our guide is Louise Slyth, who's originally from Scotland but has made this enchanting city her home.  Louise shows us around 'her' Dublin, her favourite galleries and museums, parks and pubs. She tells us the best places to shop and shares with us her recommendations of where to eat and drink  - from simple fish and chips to sophisticated modern Irish; a pint of guiness to a classic cocktail. So, whether you're planning a trip to Dublin or simply daydreaming of a future visit, have a listen, as our guide Louise shows us where to find the craic in Dublin. You can also follow Louise on instgram at @louiseslyth_writer.  And if you've enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast platform.    

Welcome back to another episode of ExtraVirgin Food and Travel Podcast. In this episode, we're embarking on an extraordinary journey to an enchanting travel destination, where east meets west (literally) and history and flavours are equally complex -  Istanbul, Türkiye. Chatting with host Natascha Mirosch, is intrepid travel writer and cultural connoisseur, Lisa Morrow. Lisa has spent more than 15 years living in and exploring this captivating city, and today, she's here to be our guide through Istanbul’s culinary and cultural treasures. The city, which spreads across two continents, is a top travel destination that entices with its aromas, seduces with its history, and leaves an indelible mark on visitors’ hearts. It’s a place where ancient traditions collide with modern trends, and where every bite tells a story. So, join us as we explore this city's rich history, vibrant culture, and, of course, its irresistible cuisine with Lisa Morrow. It's a journey full of wanderlust-inducing experiences, from traversing the bustling bazaars, to learning about Lisa’s favourite places to eat and drink and how she likes to spend her time in this most enigmatic of cities.

Being credited with having "the Midas touch" is one thing that riles the seemingly unflappable Tony Kelly. His journey from young apprentice to owning ten successful Sunshine Coast hospitality businesses has been far from easy, nor linear - there have not only been set-backs and hard times, but also periods of intense self-doubt, the chef-turned-restaurateur admits. Today though, Kelly is recognised as a tour de force, a game-changer on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, where he employs around 400 people across his group's businesses, that include the incredibly popular "Rice Boi." "Bocca Italian" and newly opened "RB." In this episode, ExtraVirgin Food and Travel host Natascha Mirosch talks to Tony about his earliest years working in hotels, cruise ships and fine diners. They discuss how he manages to steer his hospitality juggernaut and his most memorable meals, she canvasses his opinion on hats, stars and the Michelin Guide, the best advice he's ever received and finds out who he'd invite to dinner. Even if you've not heard of Tony Kelly or dined in one of his establishments, it's guaranteed you'll enjoy listening to Natascha's chat with this modest and very open chef-turned-businessman.

Sommelier, importer and wine writer Jane Lopes reckons that Australia is making the most exciting wines in the world right now, and ExtraVirgin podcast host Natascha Mirosch, while she could be accused of being a little biased, agrees.  In this episode of ExtraVirgin Food and Travel Podcast, Jane and Natascha discuss Jane's background - including the soul-destroying experience of passing, then having her consort's Master Sommelier exam nullified; her newly released book: How to Drink Australian, co-written with her husband, Jonathan Ross and how a Californian-born, Nashville-dwelling American developed such a passion for Australian wine. Jane also tips us off on one of her favourite great-value Australian wines, her "death row" Australian choice and her favourite Australian wine region.  Whether you already know how great Australian wines are, or have zero experience with them, pour yourself a glass of wine and have a listen. Cin Cin!  

Heading to London? There's a lot more to the city than Buckingham palace and Big Ben. Our guest on this episode of "Postcards," is Che-Marie Trigg, a freelance writer and editor. In February 2023 she relocated from Sydney to London for the second time – she spent two years living and working in the English capital in 2017 and 2018, and has been in the city's grip ever since.    In this Postcard, Che Marie shows us her London, sharing her favourite places to eat and drink, off-the-tourist-track sights, including museums and parks (including one with a swimming pond!) and much more.    So whether London is an upcoming holiday destination for you, or you're just armchair travelling, sit back and enjoy this postcard from London.

What could possibly be wrong with volunteering in an orphanage for a week of your holiday? Should you reconsider taking that Antarctic cruise? In this episode of ExtraVirgin Food and Travel, Natascha Mirosch talks with Freya Higgins- Desbiolles, an academic in the field of tourism and co-editor of the recent books Socialising Tourism: Rethinking Tourism for Social and Ecological Justice (2022) and The Local Turn in Tourism: Empowering Communities (2023). First up they discuss the bad news- the effect that our love of travel is having on the planet and its people. Then the positive - the destinations making change to both protect their tourism industry and empower the people who work in it. They wrap the episode up with practical steps you can take to be a more respectful traveler.  "Be curious. Willing to dig and learn and be engaged," says Freya Higgins Desbiolles.  Good advice in an episode that is essential for listeners who want to know the back story to the feel-good production that is travel and what they can do to make it a more equitable and enriching experience for all - not just the traveller. 

Italians have what is indisputably the best cuisine and lifestyle in the world, right? In this episode of ExtraVirgin Food and Travel, Natascha Mirosch talks with Silvestro Silvestori, owner and director of cooking school The Awaiting Table, in the beautiful baroque city of Lecce, in Italy's south about how to cook and eat like an Italian. Rich in cooking tips and fascinating facts about this highly regional cuisine, this episode is essential listening for anyone who loves Italy and Italian food.  Buon appetito!

In this episode of ExtraVirgin Food and Travel podcast, we hear from travel and food journalist Belinda Luksic, who left her home in Australian in December to live in Split, in Croatia.  For this postcard from her adopted town, Belinda shares what's so special about Split, its beautiful coastline and nearby islands, the ancient palace and atmospheric old town, packed with cafes, galleries and homely restaurants.  She tells us about her favourite places to eat and drink, how she likes to spend her weekend and shares tips only a local would know. So whether you're planning a trip or just armchair travelling, sit back, relax and enjoy this postcard from Split.

What is wrong with our food system? What's threatening food security? Covid and food shortages highlighted one aspect - the supply chain, and climate change is showing us another. There is an urgent need to fundamentally transform the way we farm, shop and cook - it's no longer enough to just try to maintain the status quo, but instead, we need to realise the abundance is finite and adopt a regenerative approach. In this episode of ExtraVirgin Food and Travel, Natascha Mirosch talks to Jade Miles, CEO of The Sustainable Table, author, podcaster and regenerative farmer about what's wrong with our food systems, what they're doing as an organisation, life on her farm and how we as consumers can do our bit.

The Great Barrier Reef, at 2300 kms (1400 miles) is almost twice the length of Italy. It's pristine southern end, just four hours drive, or a short flight from Brisbane, however remains a bit of a secret yet is no less spectacular than the tourist hot-spots off Cairns. For this episode of ExtraVirgin, we travel to one of the southern islands, where we hear from Amy Gash, whose family caretake a spectactular coral cay where you can step into the coral gardens from the beach and swim with turtles, manta rays the size of small cars, reef sharks and a rainbow of fish. Amy and Natascha talk about the health of the reef, what it's like to grow up with an island as your playground and the measures her family are taking to ensure the island continues to be a leader in sustainable tourism.

Well, some of them! This year has produced a bumper crop of fantastic cookbooks - way too many to give love to in a podcast, so Natascha Mirosch has picked out a few of her favourites from 2022. Some are already sauce splattered and dog-eared, others waiting their turn, but she reckons all are a little bit special - from books that will help nip food wastage in the bud, to easy "Chinese-ish" recipes,  a history of food though English puddings and more. If you're looking for the perfect gift for the foodie in your life, or even you want to give a hint to loved one for your own Christmas present, have a listen.

Did you know that Berlin has more bridges than Venice?  Or that has a 160km bike trail along the former Berlin wall? Or that vintage shopping and "textile free" bathing are big? You'll learn more about these topics, plus where to eat, drink and play in this exciting, creative city in this episode of ExtraVirgin Food & Travel's Postcard. So whether you're planning a trip to Berlin, or just armchair travelling, listen in as lifestyle writer Cindy Brzostowski shares with us the very best bits of her adopted city. 

All over Italy, in tiny mountain and seaside villages, elderly women are making pasta by hand, as their mothers and grandmothers and great-grandmothers did before them. But with a shrinking world with accessibility to prepackaged food and supermarkets, and an ever-elderly population of nonnas, it's a dying art.  Since 2014, however, Vicky Bennison has taken it upon herself to document it. She launched "Pasta Grannies" on Youtube in 2014 and so far has produced more than 400 episodes to a fan base of more than two million.  In this episode of ExtraVirgin, Natascha Mirosch talks with Vicky, who's just released her second Pasta Grannies cookbook, about what it's like to have access to these wonderful women and document their lives, the pasta (and life!) tips she picked up on the way and more.     

Ola! This ExtraVirgin Postcard comes from the beautiful capital of Portugal -  Lisbon, one of Europe's oldest cities. Tour guide, travel and food writer and blogger Daniela Sunde-Brown moved to the city in 2018. In this postcard, Daniela shares with us the best of her adopted city, from the miradores offering the best views of the city, to where to eat and drink, including the famous Portuguese tarts, grilled fish and the slightly sparkling 'green' wines.   If you're planning to visit Lisbon or looking for European travel inspiration, you'll love this episode.

In April 2022, chef Adam Wolfers was riding his bike when he was struck down by a stroke, at just 38.  He lost movement on one side of his body, his sense of taste and had to learn to do the everyday things he once took for granted all over again. In this episode of ExtraVirgin Food & Travel, Natascha Mirosch catches up with this talented chef, who's worked under Wylie Dufresne in New York, and at the 3 Michelin -starred Quique Dacosta in Spain, in addition to a raft of hatted restaurants in Australia. They discuss how he's doing, what such a life-changing event has taught him, mental and physical health in the hospitality industry, his foodie heroes and more.   If you'd like to support ExtraVirgin Food & Travel Podcast and keep us ad-free, you can do so for as little as the price of a coffee here. 

New York City. "Everybody is here and everything is here for you. A lot of people are here to live out their dreams and make wonderful things happen." So says our guest in this episode of ExtraVirgin Food & Travel Podcast's "Postcard," Dena Levitz. Event organiser, yoga teacher and travel journalist, New Yorker Dena shows us her New York, taking us on an in-depth virtual tour. She tells us about little-known museums, parks and markets. How you can attend a private music event at a local's home or an unsual piano bar where the guests join in as well as comedy clubs and cocktail bars.  And with a professional interest in food, Dena generously shares her extensive knowledge - from where to get New York's best bagel to "bacon egg and cheese," at a local bodega; what she reckons are the best dosa outside India, as well her favorite restaurants, delis and much, much more.   

I nearly cancelled the whole thing, I really did. Mid-2022 and I'd booked a trip in September to France and Italy and it was causing me high anxiety.  The world is in turmoil. The Covid crisis seems to be easing, but is it? Will I get stuck away from home like so many others? What about the war in Ukraine? What about work, how can I be away that long? But I went and found the world still a beautiful place and that I still loved to travel. Join me for this episode of ExtraVirgin Food and Travel, where I tell you a little about my recent trip. And keep an eye out for an upcoming newsletter about places to stay, where to eat, and what to do in all of the places I visited. You can subscribe via the website: www.extravirginfoodandtravel.com      

Laura Thayer is living a life most of us could only dream of. An American by birth, Laura is a travel writer based on Italy's Amalfi Coast.   In this postcard, Laura shows us around her Amalfi, a place that won her heart in 2007. She shares everything from her favourite beach, to where to buy the best pastries, how to get around to avoid the traffic and some surprising history about Amalfi.    As you'd expect from a guidebook writer, this postcard is rich with expert tips, so if you're planning a trip to this beautiful part of Italy, you'll definitely want to listen to this first.   A few of the places Laura mentions are: Aceto family lemon farm Pasticceria Pansa Ristorante Marina Grande Lido Azzurro: Arsenale and Museum: Paper Museum:   And go to the show notes on the ExtraVirgin Food & Travel webpage for info on how you can follow Laura.    

Italy. Art, culture, history. They're some of the topics Natascha Mirosch discusses with Dr Kathleen Olive, cultural historian, university lecturer and tour leader.  They discuss her first trip to Florence as a young PHD student, the best places to visit in Italy for art and culture lovers, how she'd spend 10 days in Italy and much more,  If you love Italy, art, history and culture, this is the episode for you. 

This ExtraVirgin Food & Travel Postcard wings its way to us from one of the world's most multicultural cities, Toronto, Canada. Our guest is lifestyle journalist Maryam Saddiqi who shares everything she loves about her city; from its lively art scene, to heritage districts and green spaces, its residents’ love of sports, the live music scene, and of course, with the city about to get its own Michelin Guide, the fantastic food scene. Maryam recommends everything from a local wine you should try, to a farmers’ market to visit, tells us why you should jump on a ferry to explore Toronto’s islands and the best spot for a sunset view of the city. We also learn a few fascinating facts - Toronto’s Young Street is the longest street in the world. And if you want to pass as a local, you’ll drop the second ‘t’ in ‘Toronto’ and pronounce it “Tor-on-o.” Here are just a few of the places Maryam mentions - listen for the comprehensive guide full of her insider tips. Bar Pompette https://www.pompette.ca/barpompette Evergreen Brick Works https://www.evergreen.ca/evergreen-brick-works/ Bang Bang https://bang-bang-ice-cream-bakery.square.site/ Good Behaviour https://goodbehaviourto.ca/ Ba Noi https://ba-noi.myshopify.com/ Alo https://alofoodgroup.com/ Terroni https://www.terroni.com/ Patois https://www.patoistoronto.com/ Distillery District https://www.thedistillerydistrict.com/  

Her classes sell out within minutes of being open for bookings; she is a regular guest chef on Masterchef and she has her own television programme, The Chocolate Queen. In this episode of ExtraVirgin Food & Travel, Natascha Mirosch talks with "The Chocolate Queen" herself, renowned patissiere, owner of Savour Cooking School and international pastry judge, Kirsten Tibballs. Kirsten talks about how she started at business at the tender age of 12, how she established her cooking school, now celebrating its 20th year and shares some very useful tips for wannabe bakers- from a breakdown of different chocolate types to her favourite cream; common mistakes cooks make and what equipment you need in your home kitchen to be a better baker. So, cut yourself a nice big slice of chocolate cake, grab a a coffee and have a listen.

Travel writer Ute Junker travels all over the world, but it's Sydney, Australia she comes home to.  In this ExtraVirgin Food & Travel "Postcard," Ute generously shares her insider knowledge of one of the world's most beautiful cities; from its architecture to the culture, history, and of course, Sydney's fantastic food and drink scene. You'll hear about: The best coastal and bush walks, right in the city Where you'll find a revamped historic precinct packed with great bars and restaurants Sydney's coastal swimming pools Where to find a former reservoir turned into a garden The city's rich cultural life Eating and drinking: from catching a seaplane to lunch, to fish and chips by the sea Where to find deserted beaches and a secret garden And so much more. Ute's genuine love for her city is evident in every word and we reckon wherever you are in the world, you'll be looking up fares to Sydney by the end of this episode.      

Are you a planner or do you prefer to wing it when you travel? ExtraVirgin host Natascha Mirosch is definitely one of the former and in this episode of ExtraVirgin Food & Travel Podcast, she tells us why she prefers to leave nothing to chance.  Natascha also shares her tips and tricks; from getting the best out of frequent flyer points, to how to increase your chances of getting an empty seat next to you on the plane. She tells us about the sites she uses when planning her trips and shares a couple of distasters that saw her carefully laid plans go pear-shaped.  

Nicole Brewer is from Detroit, Michigan, but now lives in the small town of Nizwa, just over an hour from the Oman capital, Muscat where she's a university teacher of English and a published author. Famous for its souks and its silver as well as traditional wooden sailing boats, called dhow, its deserts and beautiful beaches, as well as its warm, friendly people, Oman is a pearl that tourists are just now starting to discover, Nicole says. In this "Postcard," we learn a little bit about life in Oman and in Nicole's adopted hometown of Nizwa; from the Friday goat market to touring the nearby mountains by 4-wheel drive, taking in a show at the opera house, shopping, or sampling the local cuisine. 

If you're a keen traveller, it's a good bet that you have a Frommer's Guide or two on your bookshelf. The highly respected guidebooks have been around since 1957 and the company is still family- owned. In this podcast, Natascha Mirosch talks with New Yorker Pauline Frommer, co-president of Frommer's Media, award winning-travel writer and editorial director of of Frommer's guidebooks, podcast host and daughter of Arthur Frommer who published that first guide, the seminal "Europe on $5 a day." They discuss those early days and what prompted Arthur, a lawyer by trade, to go into the publishing business and what place guidebooks have into today's world and into the future. This is a really fun and informative episode if you’ve ever wondered about the life of a travel writer (spoiler alert – there’s not a lot of sitting around hotel pools sipping cocktails.) Pauline shares what it’s like to have to write fast and fearlessly, to stay at a different hotel every night, haunt nightclubs until 3 in the morning and sometimes eat 2 dinners in a single night.  There’s also some fantastic insider intel about her home city, New York – from where to stay, to her favourite café plus what you can safely exclude from your NYC bucket list.

Our guest on this episode of ExtraVirgin Postcard lives an enviable life in La Paz on the Bay of California in Mexico. Travel writer Kristen Gill fell in love with the town on a work trip and made it her mission to move there. Now, as she tells us, she rides her bike along The Malecón, goes down to the seafront of a morning to watch the fishermen return with their catch, hikes in the desert and explores secluded islands with crystal clear water. All in a place where it only rains for 5 days of the year. And of course, there is the seafood - from fish tacos to local shellfish, marlin and tuna,  washed down with a 'Ballena' - a beer named for the region's most famous visitors - its whales. If you've visited La Paz, you'll enjoy reminiscing while listening to Kristen. If you haven't been, you'll be packing your bags by the end of the episode.

Writer and editor Julie Kleeman was on a hill in Dharamshala photographing monkeys when she met Yeshi Jampa. Yeshi had grown up in a semi-nomadic family in northern Tibet, living a traditional lifestle, taking care of their many animals. At 19, he made his way over the Himalayas in an arduous 24-day journey to the Indian town, now home to the exiled Dalai Lama. Their chance meeting saw love bloom, and the couple now live in Oxford with their two children, own a Tibetan restaurant and have just published their first book - Taste Tibet - Family Recipes from the Himalayas, based on Yeshi's recipes.  In this episode of ExtraVirgin Food & Travel, we hear not only about life in the highest country in the world, but all about the historical and geographic influences of its cuisine and how fate bought this couple, from such very different cultures to meet on that hilltop. 

Venice has been on the wishlist of  travellers for centuries, but in this postcard, we're taking a tour of a Venice way beyond St Mark's Square, the Rialto Bridge or the Grand Canal. Artist and writer Allison Zurfluh lives on the island of Burano, in the northern section of the Venice lagoon.  Passionate about her adopted home, she tells us a little of the history of the lagoon's islands and shares some of her favourite things to see, do and taste - from taking an excursion on a traditional boat with a local fisherman to where to eat the best seafood, how to do a cicchetti crawl like a local, where to go to visit an island winery, a lace museum or call in on friars living a monastic life on another island. Whether you've never been to Venice, or you're a regular, this view from the lagoon will give you an entirely different perspective of La Serenissima.   

Are you a foodie planning a trip to Australia? Or a local just looking to add to your dining bucket list? In either case, you'll want to listen to this episode of ExtraVirgin Food & Travel. Our guests are Joanna Hunkin, editor of Australian Gourmet Traveller, and restaurant critic at The Australian newspaper, John Lethlean.  You'll find out what Joanna reckons is Australia's 'most fun' restaurant and which formal diner John was forced to eat at on his own.  Both Joanna and John generously share their extensive knowledge, nominating what they believe to be the best restaurants around Australia.  

Thailand's capital, Bangkok is a large, sprawling city best known for its river, ornate temples and delicious street food. Our guest, Wisrute Buddhari has lived in Bangkok most of his life. Not only does he share the best time of the year to visit and what to see and do; from temple hopping to viewing the city from a boat on the Chao Praya river, as well as a secret beach only locals know about, but this keen foodie let's us in on some of his favourite places to eat and drink. Have a listen to discover:  Where to get the best roast goose in the city  Where to go for Thai beef noodles  Which markets locals shop at   Where to find the best beef ribs  Where to eat regional Thai food  A vineyard just out of Bangkok You'll find links to these and more in the show notes at: www.extravirginfoodandtravel.com

Have you ever taken a trip that changed your life? ExtraVirgin Food & Travel Podcast host and travel writer Natascha Mirosch certainly has. In this episode, Natascha shares five destinations that have had a huge impact on her life.  She reads from her diary, written as a 20 year old on her first overseas trip as an adult, explains  how she came to understand her roots better on a short break in an eastern European city, shares what happened on a Greek island that changed her life in a way she could never, ever have foreseen, talks about a deeply spiritual experience and how another destination saved her ailing health. It's a deeply intimate episode, examining how travelling can often offer up the most unexpected and precious gifts.

Headed to California? Or just California dreaming? Los Angeles is far more than just Hollywood, as this "Postcard" episode guest, Wendy Lee explains. Wendy, who has a blog, Empty Nesters Hit the Road, shares with us some of her favourite things to see and do in Los Angeles - you might be surprised to find out what a rich multicultural and cultural city Los Angeles is. Wendy tells us about its theatres and galleries, its green spaces and mountain hikes, as well as its 76 miles of shoreline. She also shares secrets about LA’s ethnic neighbourhoods and street art, food markets, roof top bars and her favourite restaurants. So, whether you’re planning a trip, or just armchair travelling, enjoy this tip-packed Postcard from Los Angeles. Parks https://www.laparks.org/griffithpark/ https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/angeles/recreatin/hiking   Eating and Drinking https://www.sunnongdan.net/ https://www.olvera-street.com/ https://redbird.la/ https://thefactorykitchen.com/ https://www.manuela-la.com/ Theatres and Galleries https://www.lacma.org/ https://www.thebroad.org/ https://www.getty.edu/ https://www.centertheatregroup.org/ http://www.pantagestheatre.net/   A Weekend in LA https://artsdistrictla.org/ https://www.grandcentralmarket.com/ https://rowdtla.com/ https://la.smorgasburg.com/  

No-one can deny the effects climate change is having on our oceans, with temperatures and sea levels rising. The world's biggest reef, Australia's Great Barrier Reef, one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, is the canary in the coal mine and right now its health is of serious concern. The good news is, that while politicians argue about the way forward vis a vis climate change, scientists and tourism operators in Australia have partnered up to develop a stewardship program, the Coral Nurture Project with the goal to transform both ecological and social resilience to environmental change. Part of this, is a unique 'coral gardening' project, sucessfully growing and replanting coral onto the reef.  In this episode of ExtraVirgin Food and Travel , Natascha Mirosch talks with David Suggett, a marine biologist and professor in the Climate Change Cluster at the University of Technology of Sydney, who heads the Future Reefs program, about the propects of The Great Barrier Reef. If you've ever dived or snorkled among the spectacular corals and marine life of The Great Barrier Reef, you'll want to listen to this. 

In this episode of ExtraVirgin Food & Travel "Postcards," we travel to Marrakech, Morocco's fabled pink city and a recent location star in the popular "Inventing Anna," Netflix series. Our guest is Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki who has lived in Marrakech for the past 9 years, running her own food tour company.   Amanda shares what she recommends visitors to her city do, including :   - Enjoying the souks - Getting a hammam - Chilling on a rooftop - Visiting a desert camp in the Agafay Desert - Going to the High Atlas Mountains (skiing in Oukaimden)   She also tells us about some of her favourite places to eat and drink, including;     - Plus 61 - Mes'lalla at the Mandarin Oriental - Dar el Bacha Cafe  - Entrepote - L'envers - Kabana   And she gives an invaluable tip that can have you sunning yourself by the pool and lunching at some of the city's most expensive and luxurious hotels, for a fraction of the price.    Whether this exotic north African city is on your bucket list or not; whether you're in the middle of planning a trip, or just armchair travelling, sit back, relax and let this Postcard from Marrakech take you away.    

Q. Where can you see kangaroos on a beach? Sleep under the water in the middle of the world's most colourful reef? Stalk 50kg birds in an ancient forest, rent your own private isalnd, kayak one of only two everglades in the world, or learn how to spear fish with a First Nation guide?   A. Queensland - home to a rich diversity of wildlife, beautful beaches, perfect weather and a vibrant and delicious food and wine scene.   So is this Australian State really the best place in the world to vacation? Our guest, Shelley Winkel, reckons it's so and ExtraVirgin Food & Travel Podcast host (and proud Queensland resident) Natascha Mirosch is inclined to agree. In this episode of ExtraVirgin, Shelley, consumer PR leader for Australia and New Zealand with Tourism and Events Queensland, intrepid adventurer and passionate local, shares her deep knowledge of her home State - from her top 3 road trips, to secrets like where you can  swim with turtles and dwarf minke whales, help scientists piece together dinosaur bones, have a free tour of the capital tailored to your own interests and toboggan sand dunes, as well as her favorite places to eat and drink and much more.    

The island city-state of Singapore is sometimes dismissed by travellers as being a little 'sterile,' however, this postcard from expat Gaynor Reid, who's lived there for the past 9 years, shows us a completely different Singapore - one that boasts a plethora of green spaces and wildlife, history, street art and artisan boutiques. Gaynor shares with us her favourite walks,  rooftop bars to catch the legendary sunsets and places to eat, from the famous hawker stalls to Michelin-starred fine diners.  So, whether you're planning a trip, or just armchair travelling, let this ExtraVirgin postcard take you away. 

A little different, this one - just like my guest (and friend) Carmel Ruggeri, an Australian-Sicilian and former restaurateur turned tour guide.  If you listened to the previous ExtraVirgin Food and Travel episode with Rubia Daniels, who bought 3 houses in Mussomeli in Sicily, your interest in the region may well have been piqued.  This episode will answer your questions about this very unique part of Italy - from the places you shouldn't miss, to the hand signs you should, never ever use, to the regional food specialities you just have to try.  Carmel tells it how it is, with humour and refreshing honesty, her love of Sicily shining through in this entertaining episode.  

In this episode of ExtraVirgin Postcards, we visit Nice, on France's beautiful Côte d'Azur. Our guest, Madelyne Prowse takes us on a colourful and delicious tour of her adopted home town; from the seaside promenade to hiking trails in the hills; secret beaches to the best beach bars.  She shares with us her favourite places to eat, drink and how to best experience Nice like a Niçoise.