Checked in with Ryan and Jo

It may be summer outside, but on this week's episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we're getting into the festive spirit and taking a magical deep dive into the best Christmas markets in Europe . From twinkling lights and festive food to mulled wine and fairytale city squares, we explore why European Christmas market breaks have become one of the most popular winter getaways—and why n...

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we take a deep dive into one of Europe's most loved holiday destinations — Greece . From iconic islands and crystal-clear waters to incredible food, rich history and unforgettable experiences, Ryan and Jo explore everything you need to know when planning a Greek holiday. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly beach escape, a romantic...

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we're diving into the world of late holiday deals and revealing how to secure the best last-minute travel bargains without compromising on quality. Ryan and Jo share their expert advice on where to find the best late deals , which destinations offer the greatest value, and why being flexible with your airport, travel dates, hotel choice and de...

This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo , Ryan is on location on Vancouver Island , bringing you a special destination deep dive from one of Canada's most spectacular regions. From rugged coastlines and ancient rainforests to charming towns, incredible wildlife, and unforgettable outdoor adventures, Ryan explores what makes Vancouver Island such a unique destination and why it deserves a pl...

Welcome back to Checked In with Ryan & Jo for the start of Season 2 ! After a busy month of travelling, we're back behind the microphones to catch up on everything we've been up to throughout May. From destination visits and hotel stays to travel highlights, funny moments, and the experiences that have inspired us for future adventures, this episode is your behind-the-scenes look at li...

In this special episode, join Jo with fellow retreat host Fiona as they take you behind the scenes of their first Awaken Retreat — a journey of connection, growth, and coming back to yourself. Hosted in beautiful Morocco , they reflect on the magic that unfolds when like-minded souls come together, from sunrise yoga sessions and soulful conversations to moments of stillness, laughter, and unexpect...

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we explore the growing world of rail holidays with special guest Paul from Fred Holidays , the experts in tailor-made rail journeys and touring holidays . From iconic European train travel to bucket-list scenic routes like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express and Rocky Mountaineer , we break down why rail travel holidays are becoming one of the mo...

This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we’re keeping it real… and slightly off script 👀 We’re diving into our personal holiday preferences — are we poolside loungers or out-all-day explorers? Plus, how our travel styles (and standards!) have evolved over the years. Along the way, Ryan shares some of his funniest — and slightly questionable — holiday stories … the kind that only ever seem to...

New episode just landed 🎙️🇯🇵 This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we’re off to Japan … and its safe to say, Ryan’s already planning his snack stops while Jo’s chasing temples, sunsets, and all the slow moments in between ✨ We’re joined by the lovely Holly from Inside Japan (one of the UK’s leading Japan specialists), who brings all the insider knowledge you actually want — not just the gu...

Lanzarote Travel Guide with a Toddler | Family Travel, Things to Do & Hotel Review – Sentido Aequora In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we’re recording on location from the beautiful island of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands . We share our real-time travel experience exploring the island with a toddler , along with practical tips for families considering a Lanzarote holiday . R...

In this episode of  Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we dive into two very different ways to see the world:  classic escorted touring holidays  and  staying in one hotel and exploring at your own pace . Ryan and Jo break down the  pros and cons of each style , share tips on how to choose the right approach for your personality and holiday goals, and discuss how to combine both for the ultimate trav...

Solo Travel & Escorted Tours Explained | Just You Solo Holidays with Bev In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we dive into the world of solo travel and escorted tours with special guest Bev from Just You , the leading tour operator specialising in holidays exclusively for solo travellers . With solo travel holidays, singles group tours, and escorted touring experiences becoming m...

Join Jo for this special solo episode, as she shares the highlights from an unforgettable journey through Northern Thailand with G Adventures and Gold Medal . From exploring the iconic Wat Pho temple and canals of Bangkok , to reflecting on history at the River Kwai and Death Railway , this trip blended culture, history and adventure in the most inspiring way. Including some Changs and toasties in...

In this special bonus episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , Ryan is joined by Jennifer, General Manager of arrangeMY Escape , to discuss the ongoing travel disruption in the Middle East and what it means for holidaymakers right now. With changing flight routes, airspace restrictions, airline schedule changes, and regional travel uncertainty , we break down what is happening, which destination...

This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we’re doing something a little different. With Jo checking in from Thailand, Ryan is joined by a very special guest — his mum, Lin — who recently experienced her first ever ocean cruise . And we’re breaking it all down: expectation vs reality . If you’ve ever wondered what a cruise holiday is really like for a first-time cruiser, this episode is packed...

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we wrap up our cruising series with the ultimate guide to ocean cruising . From sun-soaked Caribbean cruises to culture-packed Mediterranean itineraries , scenic Alaska sailings , and breathtaking Norwegian Fjords , we break down everything you need to know about modern ocean cruises and why they remain one of the most popular ways to travel. We c...

This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we’re diving into the extraordinary world of expedition cruising — and we’re joined by special guest Kate from AE Expeditions , one of the leaders in small-ship polar and adventure cruises. If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Antarctica, the Arctic, Greenland, the Scottish Isles, Costa Rica, or other remote bucket-list destinations , this episode is your...

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we dive into everything you need to know about river cruising — one of the fastest-growing travel trends for 2026 and beyond. We explore the most popular river cruise destinations around the world , including the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Douro, Rhône, Nile, Mekong, Yangtze and Amazon , and explain what makes each route unique. From sailing through Eu...

Thinking about a cruise but not sure where to start? In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we break down the three main types of cruising — ocean cruises, river cruises, and expedition cruises — and explain what makes each one unique. From lively ocean ships packed with entertainment, to relaxed river cruises sailing through the heart of Europe, and adventure-led expedition cruises to...

In this episode of  Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we share our personal travel stories and how our careers in the travel industry shaped the way we travel, plan, and give advice today. Ryan talks about his time  repping for Thomas Cook , sharing behind-the-scenes insight into life living overseas and working within the travel industry. Jo shares her experience  working with Royal Caribbean , dis...

In our final 'where to travel when' series we discuss the perfect destinations for October, November and December. Packed full of our usual chatter, insider tips and a croaky voiced Jo, this is a great episode for those winter break escapes. October we look at Malta, China and the Maldives. We delve into some of the key tips for the Maldvises when picking an island perfect for you. November takes...

In this episode of  Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we explore the  best destinations to visit in July, August and September , helping you make the most of summer and early autumn travel. We cover  July favourites  including the Balearic Islands, Kenya and Turkey — from beach escapes to unforgettable safari experiences. For  August , we dive into Brazil, Bali and Aruba, perfect for sunshine, cultu...

In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we explore the best destinations for spring and early summer . From the beaches of Cyprus, Cape Verde and Seychelles in April, to the vibrant culture of Morocco, Canada and Italy in May, and the sun-soaked coasts of Croatia, Greece and Borneo in June — we cover the highlights, must-see sights, and why these months are perfect for each destination....

Best Places to Travel in January, February & March | Travel by Month Podcast In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo , we share the best places to travel in January, February and March , helping you decide where to go based on weather, experiences and the best time to visit. We cover top winter sun destinations , cultural trips, wildlife experiences and seasonal highlights to help you...