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Episode 13: Amanda Dunbar on the Enchanting Town of Salemi

This Week's Chat

Join me as I sit down with Amanda Dunbar, an American expat living in Sicily, who shares their absolute favourite holiday destination: Salemi. We dive deep into what makes this place so special and why it's become their go-to escape.

What We Discuss

• Amanda's Expat Journey: How she ended up in Salemi and her travel background
• Discovering Salemi: The story behind her first visit and what drew her back

The Highlights:

• Must-visit spots and hidden gems
• Local cuisine and dining recommendations
• What made the decision to move there
• What makes the local community so special.
  
• Practical Bits: Getting there, where to stay
• Local Insights: What the guidebooks don't tell you

Key Takeaways

• Amanda's top tip for first-time visitors to Salemi
• The one thing you absolutely mustn't miss
• How to experience Salemi like a local
• Common mistakes travellers make and how to avoid them
• Busiate pasta festival information

Mentioned in This Episode

• Live like a local: If you are considering moving to Salemi, Amanda takes you through some homes for sale along with places to visit, and things to do
• Must Try Local Cuisine: Busiate pasta and Salemi Spritz
• Attractions: Segesta Archeological Park

Useful Websites and Apps:

• Evisa option
• Airalo for your esim
• DiscoverCars for your Car hire options

Connect with Amanda Dunbar

• Tiktok - Amanda in Italy
• Youtube - Abcuinitaly
• Instagram - aadst11

Next Week

I'll be chatting with Julie Talbot about their love affair with this part of the world - you won't want to miss her stories about The Silk Road.

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpattravel- I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review on your podcast platform- it really helps other expats discover the show.

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

TikTok: Truly Expat

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Episode 12: Gerrit Van den Berg - Amsterdam & The Netherlands

This Week's Chat Join me as I sit down with Gerrit van den Berg, a Dutch local and founder of Hidden Holland, who shares his passion for showing travellers the authentic Netherlands beyond the tourist traps. We dive deep into what makes Amsterdam and the wider Netherlands so special and why authentic local experiences trump typical tourist activities every time.

What We Discuss

• Gerrit's story: What makes HiddenHolland different to other tours
• Discovering the Real Netherlands: Why real authentic experiences are what motivates him
• The Highlights:
  • Hidden gems in Amsterdam away from the crowds
  • Charming medieval cities like Amersfoort and Deventer
  • Cultural insights into Dutch directness and local customs
  • Postcard-perfect photography spots tourists miss
• Practical Bits: Where to find authentic experiences along with local tips
• Local Insights: "Those things you only know when you live somewhere" - the insider knowledge that transforms ordinary trips

Key Takeaways

• The one thing you absolutely mustn't miss: Exploring beyond Amsterdam to discover medieval Dutch cities
• Discovering the best time to travel to the Netherlands.
• How to experience the Netherlands like a local: Focus on authentic cultural experiences rather than tourist clichés
• Common mistakes travellers make and how to overcome them.

Mentioned in This Episode

• Best time to travel: Most people do not realise that it is a all year round destination.
• Attractions: Medieval cities, the (real) Tulip season, hidden Amsterdam gems.
• Useful Apps/Websites:
  • Hidden Holland - hiddenholland.com - Comprehensive guide to authentic Dutch experiences
  • Truly Expat Travel - My 7 day Itinerary

Connect with Gerrit van den Berg

• Website: hiddenholland.com
• Services: Travel advice, vacation coaching, private tours
• Contact: Available for 1-on-1 video calls to create personalised Netherlands itineraries

Next Week I'll be chatting with Amanda about her love affair with Salemi - you won't want to miss her story about how she ended up moving there fulltime.

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpat.com - I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review - it really helps other expats discover the show.

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

TikTok: Truly Expat

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In this episode, I chat with Patsy Tranter about our amazing group trip to Sri Lanka in January. We share our experiences exploring this incredible island nation and why it's a must-visit destination.

What I Discuss

Our Sri Lankan adventure highlights including visits to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, ancient temples, tea plantations, and stunning beaches. We discuss the group tour experience and our unforgettable visit to the world-famous Smoke & Bitters bar in Hiriketiya.

Practical Bits:

• Best time to visit
• What to pack
• How to get to Sri Lanka
• Things we wish we knew before visiting

Local Insights:

• Must-try Sri Lankan cuisine
• Cave temples
• Wildlife safari opportunities
• Village experiences
• Our experience at Smoke & Bitters - ranked No. 14 on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025

Key Takeaways

Sri Lanka offers incredible diversity in a compact area - from ancient culture to pristine nature. The friendly locals and rich heritage make it perfect for group travel, and spots like Smoke & Bitters show how the country is gaining international recognition.

Useful Apps/Websites:

• Truly Expat Travel
• E-Visa Option
• Airalo for your esim option
• TourRadar for group tours

Next Week I'll be chatting with Gerrit Vandeberg from Hidden Holland to chat about Amsterdam, where he runs personalise tours, so you get the best out of your time in the Netherlands.

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpat.com- I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review- it helps others discover the show.

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

TikTok: Truly Expat