Episode 20: The wonderful global mix of traditions, Travel accomodation, Frequent Flyer Programs and more

Hey there, and welcome to the 20th episode of "Southern Summers and Northern Winters!" Join Mark and Anders as they chat about everything from the quirky daylight hours in different parts of the world to the surprising number of public holidays in Victoria and Bavaria. They dive into the ups and downs of travel planning, sharing stories about booking places to stay, dealing with car rentals, and even the latest trends in air travel. Plus, they touch on how AI is shaking things up in the creative world. Whether you're a travel buff or just curious about life in other places, this episode is packed with fun insights and stories. Don't forget to hit us up on our social channels and let us know what you think!

**Episode Overview: Southern Summers and Northern Winters - Episode 20** 

**Introduction**

- **00:01 - 00:13**: Discussion about the time it gets dark in different locations, comparing Europe and Australia.

**Daylight and Seasons**

- **00:13 - 01:16**: Conversation about daylight saving times and how it varies in different countries, including experiences in Denmark and Germany.

**Podcast Milestone**

- **02:10 - 02:30**: Celebration of the 20th episode of the podcast, reflecting on its beginnings and the idea behind it.

**Listener Engagement**

- **02:56 - 03:27**: Discussion about the podcast's audience and the challenge of tracking listener statistics.

**Weather and Seasons**

- **03:38 - 04:52**: Talk about the changing weather in Australia as it approaches winter, and how it contrasts with European weather.

**Public Holidays**

- **04:57 - 09:58**: Comparison of public holidays in Australia and Bavaria, including unique holidays like the Melbourne Cup and AFL Grand Final in Victoria.

**Political Landscape**

- **14:44 - 15:39**: Brief discussion on the recent election in Australia and its surprising results.

**Travel and Accommodation**

- **16:31 - 18:15**: Discussion on Airbnb's business model and its decision to list hotels, comparing it to other booking platforms.

**Travel Experiences**

- **18:15 - 21:38**: Personal experiences with Airbnb and booking accommodations, including a focus on booking hotels in Bali.

**Luxury Travel**

- **23:26 - 25:33**: Discussion on luxury accommodations in Dubai and the high costs associated with them.

**Airlines and Travel Costs**

- **27:02 - 30:59**: Introduction of a new luxury airline, Global Airlines Limited, and the challenges of operating A380s.

**Frequent Flyer Programs**

- **31:25 - 33:08**: Discussion on the use and value of air miles and frequent flyer programs.

**Travel Insurance and Car Rentals**

- **37:01 - 39:11**: Insights into travel insurance, car rental experiences, and the associated costs and challenges.

**Cultural Experiences and Scams**

- **45:15 - 48:33**: Discussion on cultural interactions and the potential for scams while traveling, with personal anecdotes.

**Technology and Memories**

- **54:00 - 56:22**: Personal project of transferring old videotapes to digital format, reflecting on family memories.

**AI and Content Creation**

- **59:56 - 1:03:25**: Discussion on the use of AI in content creation, its limitations, and its role in productivity.

**Conclusion**

- **1:06:44 - 1:07:45**: Closing remarks, encouraging listeners to engage with the podcast on social media and listen to past episodes.

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 19: The cost of living vs saving up for travels

Hey there, and welcome back to "Southern Summers and Northern Winters"! In this episode, Anders and Mark are catching up on all sorts of interesting stuff. They chat about what it's like to be in Rome during Easter, especially if the Pope happens to pass away, and they even get into the idea of flying taxis—yep, just like in the movies! The guys also share their thoughts on Munich's beer gardens and how politics in the U.S. might be shaking things up globally. Plus, they swap stories about travel costs, grocery shopping, and even a wild theory about China's population. It's a fun, laid-back conversation that covers a bit of everything, so grab a drink, get comfy, and join us for a good time!

**Episode Overview: Southern Summers and Northern Winters Podcast** 

**00:00 - 00:21**: Introduction

- Mark and Anders begin the episode with a casual conversation about their video setup and how things are going.

**00:21 - 01:13**: Easter and the Pope

- Discussion about Easter, the Pope's message, and the hypothetical scenario of visiting Rome when the Pope dies.

**01:13 - 02:25**: Conclave and Vatican Films

- Anders mentions a film called "Conclave" related to the Vatican, which they watched around Easter.

**02:25 - 04:15**: Personal Updates

- Mark shares his Easter activities, including cleaning his office and transforming it into a more productive space.

**04:15 - 06:00**: Tidiness and Productivity

- Anders and Mark discuss their preferences for tidiness and how it affects their productivity.

**06:00 - 08:25**: Flying Cars and Future Technology

- A nostalgic look back at "Back to the Future" and the current developments in flying taxi startups.

**08:25 - 10:58**: Safety Concerns with Flying Vehicles

- Concerns about the safety and regulation of flying taxis and the recent helicopter crash in New York.

**10:58 - 12:59**: Airline Experiences

- Mark talks about his upcoming flight with Cebu Pacific and the experience of flying on a densely packed plane.

**12:59 - 16:22**: Long-Haul Flight Challenges

- Anders shares his experience of a long-haul flight from New Zealand to Denmark and the discomforts of economy class.

**16:22 - 18:28**: Nostalgia for Past Airline Experiences

- A discussion on how air travel used to be more luxurious and the changes over the years.

**18:28 - 20:57**: U.S. Tourism and Politics

- The decline in U.S. tourism and the political implications of the current administration's policies.

**20:57 - 24:03**: Global Manufacturing and Trade

- The challenges of manufacturing in Western countries and the impact of global trade dynamics.

**24:03 - 28:28**: Munich's Beer Culture

- Anders talks about Munich's beer festivals, the history of strong beer, and the city's beer gardens.

**28:28 - 32:29**: Beer Brands and Export Markets

- Discussion on various German beer brands and their presence in international markets.

**32:29 - 36:08**: Dining Out Costs

- Comparing the costs of dining out in Germany and Australia, including the price of beer and meals.

**36:08 - 41:15**: Grocery Prices and Cost of Living

- A look at the cost of groceries in Australia and Germany, and how it affects disposable income.

**41:15 - 45:26**: China's Population Theory

- Mark shares a theory about China possibly overestimating its population and the implications of such a claim.

**45:26 - 49:50**: Global Population Concerns

- Discussion on global birth rates, the potential for underpopulation, and societal changes.

**49:50 - 52:52**: Work-Life Balance and Childcare

- The challenges of balancing work and family life, particularly in Germany, and the infrastructure needed to support working parents.

**52:52 - 56:51**: Saving for Travel

- Strategies for saving money for travel and the importance of prioritizing experiences.

**56:51 - 59:15**: Travel Plans and Destinations

- Mark discusses his travel plans and the decision-making process for choosing destinations.

**59:15 - 1:02:10**: Indonesia's New Capital

- Brief mention of Indonesia's plan to build a new capital city due to Jakarta's environmental challenges.

**1:02:10 - 1:02:38**: Closing Remarks

- Anders and Mark wrap up the episode, inviting listeners to engage with them on social media and share feedback.

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 18: Navigating Home Renovations and Travel Dreams: A Conversation on Life's Little Challenges

Welcome back to Episode 18 of "Southern Summers and Northern Winters"!

Anders and Mark are back in action after a little break, and they're diving into all sorts of cool stuff this episode. First up, they're talking about the weather—Mark's feeling the chill as winter starts to roll into Australia, while Anders is all about spring sunshine in Europe. They also get into some fun stories about home projects, like Mark's epic fridge-moving saga, and chat about sports events they'd love to hit up someday. Plus, there's a whole bit about the joys of sipping espresso in Italy and the wild world of travel planning these days. If you're into sports, coffee, or just love a good hangout session with some interesting chatter about life and travel, this episode's got your name on it. So kick back, relax, and join us for a laid-back convo full of laughs and insights. Enjoy the ride!

Episode Overview: Southern Summers and Northern Winters

*Introduction (00:00 - 01:40)*

- The hosts catch up after a brief hiatus, discussing the transition of seasons in their respective locations. Mark mentions the cooling weather in Australia, while Anders talks about the arrival of spring in Europe.

*Easter Plans and Public Holidays (01:41 - 03:43)*

- Discussion about the upcoming Easter holiday, with Mark mentioning time off work and Anders highlighting the significance of Easter in Europe.

*Home Renovations and Living Situations (03:44 - 06:07)*

- Mark shares updates on home renovations, particularly the challenge of moving a fridge across a new vinyl floor. Anders reflects on the idea of living in a constantly renovating home.

*Travel and Sporting Events (07:03 - 11:04)*

- Mark lists sporting events he would like to attend, including the US Masters, WrestleMania, and the Italian GP. Anders discusses the costs and logistics of attending major sporting events.

*Football and Local Teams (12:16 - 16:23)*

- A conversation about football culture, focusing on Munich's local teams, Bayern München and 1860 Munich, and the dynamics of supporting local clubs.

*Religious Events and Tourism (20:17 - 23:39)*

- Discussion about religious events, such as Easter in Rome and the experience of visiting the Vatican. Anders shares insights on the significance of religious gatherings like the pilgrimage to Mecca.

*Coffee Culture and Preferences (31:12 - 41:46)*

- The hosts delve into their coffee preferences, discussing espresso culture in Italy and the nuances of making and enjoying coffee at home.

*Travel to the US and Global Politics (44:26 - 52:03)*

- A conversation about the decline in travel to the US due to political climate and safety concerns. The hosts discuss the impact of global politics on tourism and international relations.

*Walking and Hiking Adventures (54:44 - 57:14)*

- Anders shares aspirations of hiking from Munich to Italy, highlighting the appeal of long-distance walking and the meditative benefits it offers.

*Conclusion and Future Plans (59:49 - 1:01:24)*

- The hosts wrap up the episode, discussing plans for the next recording and encouraging listeners to follow them on social media platforms.

This episode covers a wide range of topics, from personal anecdotes and travel aspirations to cultural observations and global issues, providing listeners with an engaging and diverse discussion.

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 17: Family travels: Pros & cons with special guest Jenny Lynn

Today we dive into the pros and cons of traveling as a family with our special guest Jenny Lynn. Jenny is an experienced World traveler, and she shares some insights of life from…well, currently Malaysia, but Lynn has been around, as she says.

Quite an inspiring episode, so hop aboard, and enjoy the ride!

Find Jenny and her family on: https://travelynnfamily.com

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 16: Cyclones in Queensland, Beer culture and current affairs

Welcome to another episode of "Southern Summers and Northern Winters," where we dive into the fascinating contrasts and shared experiences between different cultures and climates. In this episode, Mark and Anders explore a wide range of topics, from the art of perfecting YouTube videos and music recordings to the joys and challenges of travel planning. They discuss the unique weather patterns in Australia, including the impact of typhoons on the Gold Coast, and share insights into the vibrant culture of the region. The conversation also touches on the cultural differences in alcohol consumption between Australia and Europe, highlighting the relaxed European approach compared to the more regulated Australian norms. As they reminisce about past travels and plan future adventures, Mark and Anders offer a glimpse into the excitement and intricacies of exploring new destinations. Whether it's the allure of Bali, the historical charm of Prague, or the seismic wonders of Iceland, this episode is packed with travel tales and cultural insights that will inspire your wanderlust. So sit back, relax, and join us on this journey through Southern Summers and Northern Winters.

**Episode Overview: Southern Summers and Northern Winters** 

**00:00 - 00:25**: The episode begins with a discussion on the iterative process of recording, whether for YouTube or music, and the balance between perfection and maintaining a natural vibe.

**00:25 - 01:37**: Mark shares his current situation of living temporarily in a different town due to house repairs, likening it to a mini holiday. He talks about plans to explore local pubs and clubs.

**01:37 - 03:15**: The conversation shifts to weather events in Australia, specifically a recent typhoon in Queensland and its impact on the beaches, including efforts to restore them before the Easter holidays.

**03:22 - 04:44**: Anders inquires about the Gold Coast, and Mark explains its geographical location and significance as a surfing destination, drawing comparisons to Miami.

**04:44 - 06:23**: Anders and Mark discuss their travel experiences in Australia, particularly around Brisbane and Cairns, and the differences in climate between northern and southern regions.

**06:23 - 08:42**: The conversation moves to European weather, with Anders mentioning the arrival of spring in Germany and the unique climate of Freiburg.

**08:42 - 10:07**: Anders shares excitement about the reopening of a local beer garden in Munich after five years, highlighting the cultural significance of beer gardens in Germany.

**10:07 - 12:31**: The discussion turns to the cost of beer in Germany compared to Australia, touching on the impact of taxes and cultural differences in alcohol consumption.

**12:31 - 14:43**: Mark and Anders discuss the high cost of cigarettes in Australia due to taxes, leading to a black market, and compare it to smoking habits in Europe.

**14:43 - 16:10**: Anders describes the relaxed European attitude towards alcohol, contrasting it with stricter regulations in Australia and the U.S.

**16:10 - 18:21**: The conversation explores cultural differences in public alcohol consumption, with Anders describing Father's Day traditions in Germany.

**18:21 - 20:53**: Mark and Anders discuss the challenges of alcohol regulations in Australia and the impact on social activities and businesses.

**20:53 - 24:07**: The topic shifts to the dependency on air travel, with Anders mentioning a recent closure of Heathrow Airport and the impact of strikes in Germany.

**24:07 - 28:52**: Mark shares insights on airline strikes in Australia and the unique challenges faced by Bali Airport due to volcanic activity.

**28:52 - 31:10**: The conversation touches on the potential development of a second airport in Bali and the impact of seismic activity on travel.

**31:10 - 34:11**: Mark and Anders discuss their experiences with volcanoes, including trips to New Zealand and Iceland, and the impact of volcanic ash on air travel.

**34:11 - 37:59**: The discussion moves to the logistics of living on remote islands and the challenges of supply and demand, contrasting it with the convenience of urban living.

**37:59 - 42:49**: Mark talks about his upcoming travel plans to Bali and the importance of staying updated for his Bali-focused website and Facebook group.

**42:49 - 45:55**: The excitement of travel planning is discussed, with Mark sharing his methods for keeping travel goals visible and motivating.

**45:55 - 48:39**: Anders shares his upcoming travel plans to Prague and Tuscany, discussing the challenges of booking accommodations.

**48:39 - 51:01**: The conversation reflects on historical changes in Prague since the fall of the Berlin Wall and the cultural experiences of visiting the city.

**51:01 - 52:10**: The episode concludes with a discussion on favorite airports, highlighting Singapore's Changi Airport for its amenities and convenience.

Catching up Mark and Anders discuss the current weather in Australia, beer culture in Europe vs elsewhere, beer gardens, global current affairs and favorite airports.

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 15: Travel insurance, side costs when traveling, taking kids out of their local environment

This week we chat about all the side costs that many never think about, before the leave on a journey, They can certainly add op to something quite expensive. And maybe even ruin your budget.

We also talk about the response when we took our kids out of their usual environment and went traveling.

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 14: Bendigo, Victoria, Alcohol-cunsumption on airplanes, venomous animals etc

In this weeks episode we chat about a mining-town in Victoria called Bendigo where Mark and Bec just stayed for the weekend. We also chat about alcohol-consumption on airplanes,

And fees for guaranteed seats! EVERY time you fly on a budget, there is ALWAYS a hatch!

And apparently Mark has never flown the A380! Really? Anders tried it twice!

Anders also talk about the FREE Messe in Munich. And exhibition for anything holidays and leisuretime.

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 13: Living in China - with special guest Willow Wyld

This week we have Willow joining us, chatting about how it’s actually like to live in China. Willow is staying there for her studies.

We talk about the food culture, what the Chinese drink and Willow shares some of the highlights she has experienced so far.

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 12: Buying Islands, World Politics and Chinese cooking traditions

This week we start out with just a little bit of politics… But as seasoned travellers we are aware of local customs and traditions, so we can see through the political agendas, and just focus on the local people, who are usually kind, generous and not even remotely interested in political BS.

We also talk about the fact that Chinese households rarely have an oven in their kitchen! What is THAT about?

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 11: Algorithms, Spicy crickets and dream destinations

As usual we wander off topic here on the podcast… Main topic today is our dream destinations. Where would we like to go…?

But before that Mark shares some experiences with eating grasshoppers, crickets and other exotic servings…

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 10: Bangkok, Thailand, German Highways etc

This week we chat about Marks recent experiences in Bangkok, some experiences from German highways and much much more.

Which side of the road is the right side to drive?

The sound in Marks end is a bit problematic. We are working on that!

Some links for todays episode:

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Night Dinner Cruis vi.me/NodEh

Airport transfers with booking.com https://tinyurl.com/23gsn95o

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 9: The Wyld Family China Experience

In this first episode of 2025 we dive into the recent experiences Mark and his family have had in China. This also leads us to chat about German Christmasmarkets, general supervision of the public, governmental affairs etc. We even touch base on Russian tourists!

So jump right on and enjoy the ride!

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 8: Packing day!

Mark and the family are going to China for the holidays! Why is packing always so tedious? We also talk about the biggest disappointments we have had whilst traveling. There are some! There are also some spots that have exceeded expectations!

Hop onboard!

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 7: National cuisines - which is your favorite? Toll roads and public transportation

In this weeks episode we chat about our favorite national cuisines. It’s an important part of traveling to get familiar with the local dishes wherever you go! We also chat about getting to and from major metropolitan airports. It can be rather costly! And whatever else we fancy chatting about. Hop onboard and enjoy!

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 6: The struggles and consequences of long-term travel

This week we dive into the more problematic aspects of travel: Long-term travels! This kind of traveling is still exciting and cool, but there are several things you need to be aware of, and it is NOT the same as being on vacation!

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 5: About packing for travel - how do you get on with that?

This week we talk about packing. Some people hate it, others don’t mind. How do we approach this task? How de we pack smartly? How about technical devices?

Also, we return to the European Christmas markets - they are opening just this week in most areas.

And as usual we touch many, many other topics!

Enjoy!

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 4: Christmas is sneaking in on us, Chinese fast-trains and much more

We had just a few small sound issues on this one. Bare with us. We sit far apart and make do with what we have, in terms of technical equipment.

Anyway, today we talk about European vs English/American/Australian Christmas traditions. Mark talks about riding Chinese express trains. We share experiences in terms of food and eating whilst traveling. Animals in Australia will kill you, or so they say. Plus much, much more.

We have a brand new YouTube channel, so check out how it looks when we record:

https://www.youtube.com/@ssnwpodcasts

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 2: Impressions from Vienna, Austria, AirBnB, Flying Chinese etc

In this episode we chat about Anders’ recent family holiday in Vienna, Austria. What’s to see? What was not so good? AirBnB experiences - We’ve both had them! Mark shares some experiences from flying with Chinese airlines. Some Bali tips and much, much more….

Find us on socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssnwpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567308293160

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Episode 1: About travelling with and without family, importance of valid passports and more

In this first episode we - Anders Jensen and Mark Wyld - introduce ourselves. We talk about how we got to travel i en first place, and then later on with our families.

During our unscripted conversations we WILL wander of in terms of topic. For instance, in this episode we talk about the importance of valid passports, and the trouble of getting these. Even when there is a tight deadline.

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