The Jason Boull Travel Podcast

The best Japan trips aren't the cheapest, the biggest, or the most scripted — they're the ones where someone who actually lives there is quietly making everything better in the background.In Part 2 of the Discover Japan finale, Jason and Charlie Orr of Inside Japan get into the practical side of small group tours: when to book, what package protection really means, and how to match the right itinerary to the right traveller. They cover why solo travellers have quietly become one of the biggest audiences for these tours, how families with teenagers fit in (and when younger families need something different), and what's actually on offer across the 11 Inside Japan itineraries — from Hidden Japan through Shikoku to autumn in Tohoku and winter highlights in Hokkaido.Jason also pulls back the curtain on the boring-but-essential stuff most travellers only think about when it's too late: why booking your tour before flights is the right order of operations, what you lose when you book flights separately, and why travel insurance is the next podcast on his list.Key Highlights:Why solo travellers consistently rate small group tours highest — and how single supplements workBooking order: lock in the tour first, add flights when they release ~11.5 months outThe real meaning of package protection — and why splitting flights from the tour is a riskMatching travellers to itineraries: Hidden Japan, Tohoku in autumn, Kinosaki Onsen, and classic routesWhy families with teenagers thrive on these trips — and when younger families need a tailor-made option insteadHow insiders build camaraderie fast (and the real story of a solo traveller absorbed into a Gibraltar family mid-tour)Charlie's one must-do for return visitors — a Gion and Pontocho food tourWho It's For: Anyone weighing up a small group tour for Japan, solo travellers who want the experience without the isolation, and families trying to work out whether their group fits a tour or needs something fully tailor-made.This episode closes out the Japan mini-series — but if it's inspired a trip, this is exactly the kind of planning conversation we have with clients every day.⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Welcome back: Part 2 of the Japan finale 00:18 – Why small group tours feel different from large group tours 01:01 – Who these tours suit: solo, families, newlyweds, retirees 01:40 – Small group tours with teenagers vs younger families 02:35 – Essential, luxury and extravagant ranges explained 03:16 – When to book: locking in the tour before flights release 04:26 – Package protection vs booking flights separately 05:06 – Why travel insurance still matters (plus a future episode tease) 05:56 – Matching itineraries to travellers: Hidden Japan, Tohoku, Hokkaido 07:00 – Traditional routes with an off-the-beaten-path twist 07:40 – Kinosaki Onsen and the 11 itinerary options 08:24 – How solo travellers fit into small group tours 08:40 – Single supplements explained 09:30 – Why shared experiences lower the cost of premium activities 10:26 – A personal story: getting Jason's mum travelling solo 11:24 – The camaraderie of small group tours (the Gibraltar family story) 12:43 – Charlie's one must-do for a returning traveller 14:15 – Of course it was food 14:22 – Closing thoughts and how to start planning your Japan trip

Japan gets under your skin. Almost every first-time visitor comes home already planning the next trip — and there's a reason for that.In the final instalment of the Discover Japan mini-series, Jason sits down again with Charlie Orr from Inside Japan to tackle what most travel content ignores: what to actually do on your second, third or fourth visit. They dig into Hokkaido's summer wilderness, the rarely-visited southern islands of Shikoku and Kyushu, why renting a car unlocks a completely different Japan, and how returning travellers become braver, hungrier and far more willing to push past the tourist trail.Charlie also pulls back the curtain on small group tours — explaining the real difference between a 14-person insider-led trip and a 30-person coach tour, and sharing two unforgettable examples of what a local insider adds: a hidden izakaya district tucked under Tokyo's train arches, and a Kyoto temple with a ceiling made from samurai-stained floorboards.Key Highlights:Why Japan is rarely a "one and done" destination — and what keeps pulling travellers backThe case for Hokkaido in summer vs winter (and why most people get the timing wrong)Shikoku & Kyushu: the southern islands missed by 80% of visitors to JapanWhen to add a rental car to your itinerary — and what paperwork you need before flyingThe real value of an Inside Japan "insider" — with two stories you won't hear elsewhereSmall group vs large group tours: why 14 is the magic numberHow returning travellers unlock a deeper, bolder version of JapanWho It's For: Travellers who've already ticked off Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima and want to know where to go next — plus anyone considering a small group tour and wondering what they're actually paying for.If you've been to Japan once, you already know it won't be your last visit. This episode is the roadmap for everything that comes after.⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Welcome to the Japan mini-series finale00:39 – Why Japan inspires so many repeat visits 03:15 – Retiring in rural Japan & the countryside house market 05:50 – Where to go on a second or third trip 06:50 – Exploring the islands: Hokkaido in summer 07:50 – Shikoku & Kyushu — the Japan most tourists miss 09:00 – Adding a rental car to your itinerary 10:11 – Driving in Japan: the paperwork you need 11:09 – How returning travellers experience Japan differently 14:07 – Self-guided vs small group vs large group tours explained 15:00 – What an "insider" actually is at Inside Japan 15:30 – Tokyo hidden gem: the Yurakucho izakaya arches 16:30 – The Kyoto temple with a ceiling made of samurai history 18:30 – Why 14 is the magic number for group size 19:30 – Flexibility in action: adapting the itinerary on the fly 20:24 – Wrap-up and what's coming in Part 2

In Part 1 of Episode 5, Jason is joined by Charlie Orr from Inside Japan to explore one of the most important — and most overlooked — aspects of planning a Japan trip: the seasons. Charlie explains why every season brings a completely different Japan, from the food and festivals to the very philosophy of daily life.The conversation dives deep into cherry blossom season — what makes it magical, why it's so hard to time, and crucially, how to avoid the crushing crowds at famous hotspots like Kyoto and Tokyo by venturing to smaller cities like Kochi on Shikoku Island. Charlie shares the Hanami tradition of cherry blossom viewing parties, complete with blue tarpaulin mats, nighttime illuminations, and picnics beneath the petals.The episode then turns to Japan's underrated summer season — festivals, yukata-clad crowds, extraordinary fireworks displays (including Pikachu and Anpanman lighting up the night sky), humidity management tips, and why the rainy season is nothing like the UK's grey drizzle. Practical advice covers everything from Pokari Sweat electrolyte drinks to using Japan's iconic convenience stores as air conditioning pit stops.Episode Chapters:00:00 – Introduction & Japan seasons overview01:36 – How seasons shape Japanese culture, food & haiku04:13 – Cherry blossoms: what makes them special & Hanami07:30 – Avoiding the crowds: off the beaten path cherry blossoms10:02 – Why using a travel professional makes the difference11:26 – Summer in Japan: festivals, fireworks & the rainy season15:41 – Personal travel memories & the sounds of summer18:18 – Managing the heat and humidity: practical tips

In Episode 4 of our Japan mini-series, Jason Boull and Japan specialist Charlie Orr explore the heart of what makes Japan unforgettable — the experiences.From meeting a Maiko (apprentice geisha) and taking part in tea ceremonies, to hands-on crafts like paper making and taiko drumming, this episode dives into why Japan is a destination where cultural immersion matters more than ticking off landmarks.We discuss:Why Japan rewards hands-on experiences over passive sightseeingWhat a geisha really is (and what they’re not)The power of tea ceremonies and traditional craftsHow to avoid over-tourism at temples and shrinesWhy insider knowledge transforms your visitIf you want more than a checklist holiday, Boullies Travel will help design a Japan itinerary that balances iconic sights with meaningful, personal experiences.Chapter Guide (Part 1)00:45 – Introduction: Why Japan is a country of contrasts01:56 – Modern Tokyo vs traditional Kyoto vs mountain solitude03:58 – Why experiences matter more than box-ticking06:45 – Moving from passive travel to immersive travel07:55 – Hands-on cultural experiences explained09:30 – Paper making & traditional crafts10:46 – Tea ceremonies with a Maiko (apprentice geisha)10:48 – What is a geisha really?13:45 – Kimono culture & traditional dress16:44 – Why young girls choose to become geisha18:56 – Making temple visits meaningful21:50 – Avoiding crowds in Kyoto22:50 – Sanjuu Sangendo & hidden temple gems24:50 – Samurai history you won’t find on Google25:52 – Festivals: Awa Odori & Yosakoi dance celebrations

In Episode 3 of our Japan mini-series, Jason Boull and Japan specialist Charlie Orr dive into one of the most exciting parts of any trip — the food.From sushi and ramen to okonomiyaki and regional specialities, we explore why Japan is widely considered a true foodie paradise. Charlie shares insider tips on how not to feel intimidated when eating out, why smaller specialist restaurants are often the best, and how doing a food tour early in your trip can completely change your confidence.You’ll also discover:Why Japan’s seasonal food culture runs deeper than most countriesHow to approach unfamiliar dishes (including cow tongue and eel!)Why rotating sushi bars are both authentic and incredibly affordableThe magic of Osaka — “Japan’s Kitchen”If you want to experience Japan properly — not just tick boxes — Boullies Travel can design your trip with the right pacing, the right regions, and the right food experiences built in.📍 Chapter Guide (Part 1)00:43 – Welcome to Episode 3: Food in Japan01:09 – Charlie’s latest trip: Tokyo & Kyoto food focus02:11 – The importance of seasonality in Japanese cuisine03:52 – Why Japan is a foodie paradise05:52 – How the UK lost seasonality (and Japan didn’t)08:00 – “Try it first, ask what it is later” – overcoming food fear09:10 – Cow tongue & eel: perception vs presentation11:55 – Why a food tour early in your trip is a game changer13:10 – Small specialist restaurants vs big menus15:47 – Iconic dishes: sushi, ramen, tempura & how to experience them16:16 – Kaiten sushi (rotating sushi belts) explained17:52 – Regional ramen: Fukuoka’s Hakata style19:19 – Okonomiyaki: Japan’s misunderstood “pancake”21:28 – Why insider knowledge makes a huge difference23:10 – Hidden food districts under Tokyo’s train tracks23:18 – Convenience stores: why 7-Eleven is part of the culture25:40 – Vending machines: myth vs reality

Japan’s accommodation isn’t just a bed for the night — it’s part of the adventure. In Part 1 of Episode 2, Jason Boull and Japan specialist Charlie Orr explore why Japan offers such a wide range of stays and why choosing the right style at the right point in your itinerary makes a huge difference.They dive deep into ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), including what a tatami room is really like, how futon bedding works, what makes onsen towns so special, and the small etiquette tips that help first-time visitors feel instantly more confident. You’ll also hear why some of the most authentic stays are still beautifully “old school” — including ryokans that only take bookings via fax.If you’re planning Japan and want the perfect blend of comfort, culture and seamless pacing, Boullies Travel can design the itinerary around you — so you experience Japan properly, not just “see” it.Chapters:00:49 – Recording set-up and Episode 2 begins01:13 – Welcome back + today’s topic: accommodation in Japan01:56 – Why Japan has such a wide range of accommodation styles04:36 – Why accommodation matters more in Japan than most destinations05:27 – The perfect pacing: city energy → ryokan relaxation07:21 – What a ryokan room looks and feels like (tatami, sliding doors, gardens)08:17 – Futons vs “sleeping on the floor” + accessibility options09:17 – The “magic” of returning to your room and it’s all set up10:26 – Kinosaki Onsen explained: bath-hopping, yukata, clogs and canal streets11:43 – Family-run ryokans + why dietary needs must be flagged early12:43 – The fax machine reality (and why that’s how you access the true gems)13:52 – A proper hidden gem: cliffside luggage being craned up to reception15:06 – Ryokan etiquette and what Western travellers should know17:40 – Most memorable ryokan experiences: surfing → onsen reset19:42 – Futuristic and quirky options: themed hotels, capsules, modern stays20:49 – Iconic luxury: film-famous and standout high-end hotels23:30 – What differs from UK hotels most: room sizes and packing smart

Planning your first trip to Japan? In this episode of the Jason Boull Travel Podcast, Jason Boull is joined by Japan specialist Charlie Orr to help first-time visitors plan with confidence — from the best starter route (Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and beyond) to how easy Japan really is to navigate, why rail travel is a joy, and smart tips like luggage forwarding to travel light. You’ll also learn key cultural etiquette (including onsen rules and tattoo considerations), plus how to avoid common pitfalls like overcrowding and trying to do too much.Ready to make Japan happen without stress? Boullies Travel will build your personalised Japan itinerary, keeping it smooth, realistic, and packed with the experiences that matter most to you.TakeawaysJapan is a destination that offers endless discoveries.Engaging with locals creates lasting travel memories.Navigating Japan is easier than many think, even without Japanese language skills.Tokyo feels like a collection of towns rather than one city.Food tours can help travelers discover hidden culinary gems.

Natalie from Rejuvenate Skin Experts joins Jason to share her journey from training in beauty nearly 20 years ago to building one of Cardiff’s leading skin clinics — and why her career became a passport to travel the world.But this episode takes a sharp turn when Natalie reveals what happened on a spontaneous family trip to Sri Lanka. After landing late and realising she hadn’t arranged transport for the long journey south, Natalie and her two children got into a taxi for what she thought was a straightforward transfer.Instead, deep into the night on a remote jungle road, the driver fell asleep at the wheel — and the car crashed.Natalie describes the shock of the impact, the fear of standing on a pitch-black roadside with two children, the confusion of not being able to communicate, and the unsettling reality that even the police offered no meaningful help. Just when she thinks rescue has arrived, a replacement driver turns up… and Natalie’s instincts immediately tell her something is seriously wrong.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rejuvenate Skin Experts01:49 Natalie's Journey into Skin Health04:03 Identifying Market Gaps in Beauty07:00 The Importance of Specialization and Care08:58 Challenges of Entrepreneurship10:46 Natalie's Travel Background13:54 Spontaneous Travel to Sri Lanka17:35 The Journey Begins: From Airport to Adventure20:54 A Terrifying Car Accident

In this episode, Jason Boull shares why booking a holiday shouldn’t feel stressful — it should feel like the start of your break. Discover how Boullies Travel removes the overwhelm by doing all the research, planning, and behind-the-scenes work for you, leaving you free to enjoy your evening while your perfect trip comes together.Jason also highlights key upcoming opportunities, including Lapland holidays and the highly anticipated release of 2027 trips, with priority access for those already on the list. With extended payment timeframes, expert support, and personalised service, this is the easiest way to secure your next adventure.If you're ready to travel smarter, skip the endless searching, and experience a concierge-style holiday service, visit boulliestravel.com/book-online to arrange your appointment. Follow, like, and share to stay up to date with the Jason Boull Travel Podcast.Get the full transcript at: https://share.descript.com/view/0EfruwLiK2P

In the final episode of our Canada series, Jason is joined by Michael Brabin of Destination Vancouver and Tourism Whistler to explore why so many visitors come home from Vancouver and Whistler saying, “I could move there tomorrow.”In Part 1, we dive into Vancouver as a true year-round city: mild winters, warmer summers, and a unique mix of ocean, mountains and rainforest that never feels like a typical concrete jungle. Michael shares his favourite British Columbia memory – a stunning float plane journey from Whistler to downtown Vancouver – and explains why Canucks ice hockey nights, Stanley Park, and compact, walkable neighbourhoods like Gastown, Chinatown, Yaletown and Coal Harbour make this city so special.We also unpack who Vancouver and Whistler are perfect for:Families who could swap plastic theme parks for whales, bears and wild landscapes,Older travellers who are more adventurous than ever,Couples looking for active city breaks with incredible food, culture and nature in one trip.You’ll hear about food tours, Michelin-accredited dining, street food, Granville Island’s public market, and why Easter and late spring/summer are secretly some of the best (and best value) times to visit Western Canada.👉 In Part 2, we head deeper into Whistler in summer, hidden gems like Vallea Lumina, heart-pounding adventures from ziplining to skeleton on the Olympic track, local festivals, and how to build the perfect Vancouver–Whistler itinerary with expert help so you don’t waste a once-in-a-lifetime trip.Full Transcript Here: https://share.descript.com/view/SRvpRuqzeEM

In Part 2 of our deep dive into Ottawa, Jason Boull reconnects with Vladimir Jean-Gilles of Ottawa Tourism to uncover the city’s food and drink culture, its vibrant seasons, and how visitors can plan their dream trip to Canada’s capital.Discover Ottawa’s incredible culinary scene — from historic bank-turned-fine-dining at Riviera to late-night shawarma and maple beer microbreweries. Learn how winter transforms the city into a skating wonderland, how Astro Tourism and shoulder seasons offer unexpected charm, and why Ottawa is a perfect match for both families and couples.Plus, find out what’s ahead in 2026 as Ottawa celebrates its 200th anniversary, and get expert tips on how to plan your own tailor-made Ottawa adventure with Boullies Travel.👉 Highlights in this episode:Hidden foodie gems, speakeasies, and street eatsOttawa’s booming craft beer scene + year-round beer festivalsWhy locals love Fall in the capitalWinter lights, Christmas magic & skating to workPerfect itineraries for families, couples & road-trippersHow to plan your Ottawa adventure (and where Boullies Travel comes in)🎧 If this episode gave you the travel bug, email us at Holidays@BoulliesTravel.com or visit www.BoulliesTravel.com to plan your dream trip. 💬 Got questions, feedback or future topic ideas? Drop us a note at Podcast@BoulliesTravel.comThe full transcript is available here: https://share.descript.com/view/oK8s8oh2zn1

In Part 2 of our journey through Yukon, Jason continues the conversation with Della Tully to explore the soul of this incredible territory — from bucket-list adventures to cultural immersion and off-the-grid escapes.Hear about dog sledding, wild hiking trails, unique festivals, and the ways travellers can respectfully connect with Indigenous communities. Plus, we share travel planning tips, seasonal highlights, and powerful stories of how Yukon changes the people who visit.👉 Whether you’re planning your first trip or just craving something different, Yukon might be exactly what your soul needs.For the full transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/4gKmyO3gQtj

In the second part of our magical Santa’s Lapland mini-series, Jason Boull is once again joined by Sasha Darling from Inghams to dive even deeper into this unforgettable festive adventure.This episode explores the heart-racing excitement of husky and reindeer rides, the joy of mini snowmobiling for kids, and the optional adventures that take the magic even further — from chasing the Northern Lights by snowmobile to ski tuition for beginners.We also share heartfelt stories and real client feedback from families Jason has personally booked, revealing the lasting impact these trips create. Plus, Sasha offers her insider tips to help families get the very best from their Santa’s Lapland experience.✨ If you’ve ever dreamed of a white Christmas filled with wonder, laughter, and unforgettable family memories, this episode will show you exactly why Boullies Travel will make a Christmas like no otherClick here for the full transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/koQH64uvdMp