Tray Tables and Time Zones

The mountains can feel like they’re calling your name, and sometimes the hardest part isn’t the altitude, the weather, or the miles. It’s looking at the scale, looking at your body, and wondering how you’re supposed to be an uphill athlete when you first have to fight your body. I get personal about that exact struggle. I talk through my history with fitness swings, why trekking in Nepal lit a fir...

You can spend 20-plus hours getting somewhere and still be stunned the moment you step off the plane. South Africa hit us like that. One minute we’re dragging ourselves through a punishing economy-flight journey, and the next we’re rolling into Cape Town with the skyline lit up and the coastline begging for daylight. We talk candidly about the travel logistics, what worked, what didn’t, and the sm...

Ever wondered what Mickey Mouse is like with a passport? Prepare for a journey beyond the familiar gates of Disney World and Disneyland as we venture to the magical realms of Hong Kong Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Resort. Hong Kong Disneyland may be compact, but it packs unique wonders you won't find stateside. Picture this: real mountains creating a stunning backdrop behind the castle, a Big...

Ever watched travel videos and casually suggested an overseas trip, only for someone to call your bluff? That's exactly what happened when my wife asked, "Well, are you going to go?" after I mentioned Tokyo Disney while watching YouTube. Next thing I knew, I was researching flights and discovering three simultaneous festivals at Tokyo Disney Resort—the Food and Wine Festival and Duf...

Dreaming of a Disney cruise but wondering if it's worth the premium price tag? After sailing on 12 Disney cruises and reaching Platinum status, I'm pulling back the curtain on what truly makes Disney Cruise Line different from other vacation options on the high seas. From the classic ocean liner aesthetics of the Magic and Wonder to the newer, larger ships like the Dream, Fantasy, and Wi...

Imagine taking a family tradition rooted in the magic of Disney, sparked by visits of my parents to Disneyland in the 1970s, carrying that tradition forward throughout my own life and passing it on to my kids. This episode takes you on an enchanting preview of the upcoming Disney podcast series and shares an overview of my personal Disney history, beginning with my first trip to Disney World as a...

Join me, Josh Bogle, as I travel from Stockholm to the bustling streets of London, wrapping up a whirlwind trip across northern Europe.  Step into the vibrant heart of London, where I explore the delightful chaos of Soho. The city's energy carries you through lively Regent, Oxford and Carnaby Streets, offering a taste of its cultural allure and unmatched shopping. As I prepared for my journey...

This episode captures my journey from Helsinki, Finland, to Stockholm, Sweden and the adventures exploring Stockholm focusing on my experiences aboard the Viking Line ferry to Stockholm and the charm of the city itself. From exploring Gamla Stan to visiting the famous Vasa Museum, this episode delves into the highlights of Swedish culture and cuisine, showcasing how travel enriches our lives with...

Join me, Josh Bogle, as I bring you along on a Northern European adventure in the middle of winter. My escapades begin with an exciting train ride on the Santa Claus Express, where the magic of Christmas becomes a tangible experience amidst the perpetual twilight of a Lapland winter. Between cozy cabin comforts and the charm of Santa Claus Village, this journey promises a whimsical glimpse into a...

Ever been caught daydreaming about next travel adventure? Join me, Josh Bogle, as I share a teaser of my plans for 2025, beginning with an epic solo escapade through the mesmerizing landscapes of Scandinavia. Picture yourself alongside me, hopping from a cozy flight to Helsinki to a scenic train journey into the heart of Finnish Lapland, where Santa Claus's official home awaits. From night tr...

Have you ever felt the pull of traveling the world on your own terms and in your own way?  Join me as I blend personal anecdotes with practical advice, guiding you through the nuances of solo travel. I share insights into the unique opportunities for self-discovery and growth that come with exploring the world on your own. Safety and convenience are paramount when traveling solo, and I emphasize t...

Ever wondered how a simple train ride could redefine a family's travel experience? Our adventure from Tokyo's vibrant hustle and bustle to Kyoto's serene cultural landscape unfolds with the thrill of our first Shinkansen bullet train journey. We explore the fascinating world of Ekiben boxes, the delightful meal tradition that accompanies travelers on this iconic rail adventure. Expe...

Navigating through Indira Gandhi International Airport is no easy feat, as I discovered during my lengthy layover en route to Kathmandu. What if I told you that despite having lofty ambitions, Delhi's international to international transit experience feels like being in a chaotic maze with little guidance? Join me, Josh Bogle, on Tray Tables and Time Zones, where I recount my personal journey...

Have you ever found yourself wondering where to stay, what to see, and where to eat in Tokyo?  Join me, Josh Bogle, as I recount my exhilarating adventures through the mesmerizing streets of Tokyo and beyond. From my solo escapades in 2018 to the unforgettable family trip in the summer of 2024, each journey has brought new perspectives, cherished memories, and a deepened appreciation for Japan&apo...

Ever wondered what sets Qatar Airways apart as one of the best airlines in  international travel? Join me, Josh Bogle, as I recount my own airborne adventures with Qatar, from the admirable economy service on a bumpy Kathmandu to Doha flight to the epitome of luxury in the Q-Suites aboard the A350 and 777-300. Discover the differences between the older business class seats on the 787 and the newer...

Step into the heart of Tokyo with me, Josh Bogle, as we unravel the vibrant tapestry of Japan's capital. What makes Tokyo's rhythm so captivating, and why do travelers find themselves enchanted by its seamless blend of the traditional and the modern? Join me on this episode of Tray Tables and Time Zones as I share my personal journey through Tokyo's bustling streets, offering practi...

Ready to step up your travel game? This episode is packed with practical insights, as I share my personal travel luggage strategy that prioritizes convenience and mobility. Discover why a combination of a backpack and a carry-on suitcase might just change the way you travel. I'll also dive into a review of my Away aluminum suitcase, highlighting its durability and reliability over six years o...

Ever wondered how an email could completely redefine your travel bucket list? That's exactly what happened to me when my wife received an unexpected invitation, skyrocketing Iceland from an afterthought to a dream destination. Embark on this journey as we traverse from Houston to Reykjavik, exploring the jaw-dropping landscapes, unique culture, and non-stop adventure that Iceland offers.  Pre...

Ever wondered how to make your airport layovers as smooth as possible? On today's episode of Tray Tables and Time Zones, The Ramble, join me, Josh Bogle, as I share my time exploring the Hilton Garden Inn at Heathrow Terminal 2. Whether you're a frequent flyer or just passing through, learn tips and tricks to enhance your stay and simplify your journey. We'll break everything down i...

Ever wondered what it takes to embark on a life-changing journey to Mount Everest Base Camp? Join me, Josh Bogle, as I recount my transformative trek, from the initial spark of inspiration ignited by travel vloggers Kara and Nate, to the exhilarating and nerve-wracking experience of landing at Lukla, the world’s most dangerous airport.  Immerse yourself in the meticulous preparation that made this...

What if you could fly across the Pacific without breaking the bank? On this episode of Tray Tables and Time Zones, we introduce our new segment, the Ramble, with an in-depth review of ZipAir, Japan’s low-cost airline owned by Japan Airlines. We cover everything from its fleet of Boeing 787s to its destinations spanning the US, Canada, and Asia. Tune in to hear our thoughts on the booking process,...

Ever faced the unpredictable twists and turns of international travel?  Join me as I take you through a rollercoaster of emotions all in one adventure in this episode of Tray Tables and Time Zones .  Returning home from trekking in the mountains of Nepal, I ended up facing the most challenging ordeal of my travel life: severe food poisoning while onboard multiple flights and a during a layover.  I...

Welcome to the Tray Tables and Time Zones Podcast, a podcast for those who are curious about exploring the world but want to learn about it with a touch of humor and a whole load of reality.  We discuss the highs and lows of travel without any of sugarcoating, taking real life experience and travel aspirations and sharing it all with you.  Maybe you will learn something you didn't know or may...