Ready to uncover one of Wales' best-kept secrets? We’re heading to the myth-filled, magical landscapes of Neath Port Talbot – the dramatic heart of Wales. In this underrated region, local legends and ghostly tales are as abundant as the picturesque valleys and cascading waterfalls. This episode is your backstage pass to the heart of Welsh myth and magic, from haunted castles and historic abbeys to Welsh folklore.

Join us as we wander through Margam Castle, a Tudor Gothic Mansion rumoured to be one of the UK’s most haunted spots. Feel the chill of ghostly encounters and hear the eerie tales of a long-lost gamekeeper as we explore its shadowy corners.

We'll also follow in the footsteps of Hollywood legend Richard Burton in his hometown of Pontrhydyfen – a mountain village wrapped in epic views and industrial history, with ancient bridges and a welcoming chapel with a surprising connection to Burton.

We’ll share some of Wales’ best-kept legends, from mischievous water horses emerging from waterfalls to the otherworldly changelings that haunt its forests. Adventure lovers will find plenty to enjoy here, with a surf-ready beach, hiking paths, and even thrilling mountain biking, all with the wild beauty of Wales as your backdrop.

Neath Port Talbot may not be on everyone’s itinerary, but this underrated gem is a must-see for anyone craving an authentic Welsh experience. Thanks to our partners, the Dramatic Heart of Wales, for bringing this episode to life. Buckle up for a journey that’s equal parts haunting and awe-inspiring—hit play and explore Wales beyond the guidebooks!

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Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.

If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox.

Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook

Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.

Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.

Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Did you know that Halloween’s true origins are rooted in the ancient Celtic traditions of Ireland? This isn’t just any Halloween story—this is a spooky audio journey into the heart of the Emerald Isle, where the festival we now know as Halloween began over 2,000 years ago. Join us for an immersive, spine-tingling adventure through Ireland’s mystical myths, haunting folklore, and fascinating Samhain traditions.

In this special episode, we take you to County Meath, home to the Púca Festival, where history, fire, and feasting combine with the strange and mischievous spirits of the Celtic Otherworld. You’ll hear the crackle of ceremonial fires and feel the chill of ghost stories as we travel to Ireland’s Ancient East to uncover the secrets of Samhain, the festival marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the darker half of the year.

Get ready for an epic Halloween experience! We’ll introduce you to the Púca, the shape-shifting creature of Celtic lore, who embodies the chaos and mystery of this bewitching season. The Púca Festival is not just about folklore; it’s a celebration of music, myth, food, and fire set against the backdrop of Ireland’s most historic places, from the towering Trim Castle to the ancient Hill of Ward, where the original Samhain fires were lit centuries ago.

Recorded on location, we’ll take you behind the scenes of one of Ireland’s most brilliant and imaginative festivals. Along the way, we’ll share spooky stories, haunting legends, and our own chilling encounters as the veil between worlds thins.

This is more than just a history lesson—it’s a journey into a world where the past and the present meet, where the eerie traditions of Halloween still resonate in Ireland’s wild landscapes.

Whether you’re a Halloween enthusiast or a lover of rich cultural traditions, this episode promises to transport you to a land steeped in mystery, ghostly legends, and ancient customs that will leave you captivated.

With thanks to Tourism Ireland and Irish Ferries for supporting this episode of the Travel Goals Podcast.

Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.

If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox.

Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook

Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.

Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.

Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Are you ready to stop putting off your travel dreams? Join us on this dynamic episode as we chat with Jen Ruiz, a lawyer-turned-travel blogger who made a bold career switch and embarked on a life of full-time travel. Jen shares her inspiring story, from taking on a "12 trips in 12 months" challenge before turning 30 to transforming her life through travel. We dive into why there’s no perfect time to travel, how to make your dream trips a reality, and the mindset shifts needed to overcome obstacles and book that flight!

As a TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and award-winning travel journalist, Jen brings a wealth of practical and inspirational advice on how to save for travel, book affordable flights, and embrace solo adventures. She also offers invaluable tips on diversifying income streams through freelance writing, teaching, and self-publishing—all while seeing the world!

Whether you’re seeking to break free from routine or challenge yourself with new experiences, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable steps to start your travel journey today.

Get ready to take that leap and live your travel goals now!

Order Jen’s latest book 12 Trips in 12 Months and start making your solo travel magic happen!

Special thanks to our partner, SafetyWing, for supporting this episode—offering affordable travel medical insurance designed for digital nomads and travellers. If you’re planning your next adventure, don’t forget to check them out for flexible, reliable coverage. Stay protected and explore with peace of mind—get covered by SafetyWing now!

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Hi, I'm your podcast host, Portia Jones [nicknamed Pip Jones]. I'm a freelance travel journalist, podcaster, and Lonely Planet author.

If you love to travel, check out my travel website and subscribe to my travel newsletter to get travel guides and new episodes of the Travel Goals podcast delivered straight to your inbox.

Connect with us on social media: Travel Goals on Instagram | Travel Goals on Facebook

Travel Goals is produced and owned by South Girl Production Music and Podcasting Ltd.

Email us to discuss working together or with any questions about the podcast.

Enjoy the show, and don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.