In this first of two special episodes on Rome, Italy, hosts David Brodie & Tim Johnson explore the Eternal City as it stands in 2025—where timeless beauty meets the buzz of modern travel. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, and from hilltop gardens to hidden sovereign territories, this episode offers an insightful and entertaining look at how to make the most of your time in Rome, especially if you're visiting during peak season.

In This Episode:

Is Rome Worth Visiting in High Season?

• Why the crowds and heat are worth it—and how to stay cool with tips like filling up at the city’s free nasoni fountains.

Iconic Rome

• Colosseum: Why booking ahead and joining a guided tour transforms your experience
• Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps: Expect crowds, but don’t skip them—coin tosses and city views await
• Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: Must-see masterpieces—book timed tickets in advance
• St. Peter’s Basilica: No ticket required, but take time to explore quieter corners for moments of peace
• Keykeeper Tour Tip: Be the first inside the Vatican by joining a private early-morning opening tour

Off-the-Beaten-Path Highlights

• Access Italy’s Golf Cart Tour: A customizable and stylish way to explore the city’s hidden gems
• Giancarlos Beneditti Corcus: A local artist painting in the laneways near Piazza Navona
• Villa Borghese Gardens: Shady paths, scenic views, and quiet cafés—perfect for escaping the crowds
• Knights of St. John (Sovereign Military Order of Malta): A quirky micro-nation in Rome with its own flag, passports, and even UN observer status

How Many Countries Can You Visit in a Day?

• Rome lets you check off three countries in a single day—Italy, Vatican City, and (unofficially) the Sovereign Military Order of Malta

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Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll cover where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around the Eternal City.

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In this special bonus episode of Travel in 10, host David Brodie brings back a listener favorite from the archives: a first-time family trip to London, England. Originally recorded in 2011, this episode is packed with immersive sounds from the city and timeless recommendations for how to spend 3–4 days in London with kids—including markets, museums, restaurants, and iconic attractions.

This episode was previously only available as a video on our Voyascape YouTube Channel, but we’re bringing it back to the podcast feed due to popular demand.

• Explore London’s Best Markets:
• Old Spitalfields Market – An all-weather indoor market with food, fashion, and a great local vibe
• Brick Lane – Pop-up stalls, record vendors, vintage fashion, and the iconic Vibe Bar
• Columbia Road Flower Market – A Sunday staple with tons of personality
• The Sunday UpMarket – Local designers, vintage finds, and fantastic global street food
• Family-Friendly Museums:
• Museum of Childhood – A hands-on, free museum featuring toys from the 1800s to today
• British Museum – Antiquities from Egypt, Greece, and beyond
• National Gallery – See masterpieces by Van Gogh, Picasso, and more
• Top London Landmarks:
• London Eye – A 30-minute ride offering stunning views of the city
• Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, 10 Downing Street – All within walking distance
• Getting Around:
• Use an Oyster Card for access to the Tube and buses
• Classic double-decker buses and bike rentals also available

• W London – Leicester Square: Stylish and modern with a central location steps from Chinatown, Piccadilly Circus, and Trafalgar Square. A perfect base for your first visit.

• The Spice Market (formerly in W London) – Flavorful pan-Asian cuisine
• Jamie Oliver’s Catherine Street – A new flagship replacing the now-closed Jamie’s Fifteen
• Bocca di Lupo – Fantastic Italian fare in the theatre district
• Gelupo – Fresh gelato and imported Italian products
• Gordon Ramsay’s Plane Food at Heathrow – Elevated airport dining and gourmet picnic baskets to-go

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Note:...

In Part 2 of our Travel in 10 London series, co-hosts David Brodie and Tim Johnson dive into where to eat, where to stay, and what you absolutely shouldn’t miss on your next visit to one of the world’s most iconic cities.

From rooftop pools and Michelin-starred hot dogs to hologram concerts and bustling food markets, this episode is packed with smart travel tips for repeat visitors ready to explore a deeper side of London.

🥘 Where to Eat in London

• Dishoom Shoreditch – A stylish, modern Indian restaurant inspired by Bombay cafés. Famous for its bacon naan roll breakfast and vibrant evening dining.
• Smokestak – A legendary East London BBQ spot with brisket, ribs, and an unforgettable sticky toffee pudding.
• Harrods Food Hall – A gourmet emporium that’s part food court, part culinary theatre—from fish and chips to Kobe beef and a Michelin-starred hot dog stand.
• Restaurant Gordon Ramsay – The world-famous chef’s original fine-dining flagship, still holding three Michelin stars since 1998.

🛏️ Where to Stay

• The Hoxton, Shoreditch – A boutique hotel with stylish rooms, a buzzy lobby bar, and prime East London vibes.
• Mondrian Shoreditch – Chic, design-forward luxury with a rare rooftop pool.
• Andaz London Liverpool Street – A Hyatt property blending high style with history, located on the former site of “Bedlam.”
• The Savoy – Timeless luxury in the West End, near theatres and cultural landmarks, with impeccable service and heritage charm.

🌟 Can’t-Miss Experiences

• Borough Market – London’s most beloved food market, bursting with artisan eats, gourmet produce, and street food.
• ABBA Voyage – A state-of-the-art, holographic concert experience in a custom-built stadium. A truly unforgettable night out.

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