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
Welcome to another episode of "Southern Summers and Northern Winters," where we dive into the intricacies of travel, lifestyle, and the unique challenges and joys of living in different parts of the world. This week, Mark and Anders explore the nuances of temporary relocations, as Mark shares his experience of staying in an Airbnb while his home undergoes insurance repairs. They discuss the logistics and costs associated with such moves, highlighting the unexpected expenses that can arise. The conversation then shifts to the thrill and practicality of obtaining motorbike licenses for travel in Asia, offering insights into the freedom and flexibility it provides. As they delve into the broader topic of travel, Mark and Anders reflect on the benefits of long-term travel, especially with children, and how it can foster a more worldly perspective. They also touch on the challenges of public transportation in Australia and Germany, the impact of taxes, and the evolving landscape of fast-food chains. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that spans continents and cultures, offering a fresh perspective on the everyday adventures of life.
**Episode Overview: Southern Summers and Northern Winters**
**00:02 - 01:34**: Introduction and Setting
- Speaker 1 discusses staying in an Airbnb due to insurance work at home. They describe the peaceful setting and the challenges of commuting back and forth, which adds up in time and fuel costs.
**01:45 - 02:43**: Upcoming Plans
- Speaker 1 shares excitement about getting motorbike licenses with Rebecca, which will allow them to legally ride scooters in places like Bali, Thailand, or Vietnam. They discuss the importance of having a license for travel insurance coverage.
**02:43 - 04:54**: Traveling in Asia
- Discussion on the courage needed to navigate traffic in Asia. Speaker 1 plans to try riding in quieter areas like Sanur, Bali, to gain confidence.
**05:07 - 06:20**: Flexibility in Travel
- The speakers discuss the benefits of having personal transport while traveling, allowing for spontaneous exploration and discovering hidden gems.
**06:20 - 08:17**: Travel in Germany
- Speaker 2 talks about the Deutschland ticket, which allows for extensive travel on public transportation throughout Germany, excluding fast trains. They express a desire for spontaneous travel.
**08:48 - 11:32**: Long-term Travel Plans
- Speaker 1 discusses plans for long-term travel, emphasizing the benefits of staying in one place for extended periods to immerse in local culture and reduce costs.
**11:32 - 14:31**: Cost of Living and Travel
- Discussion on the cost of living in different countries, with examples from Cambodia and comparisons to Australia. They highlight how living in some Asian countries can be cheaper than in Australia.
**14:57 - 20:23**: Hidden Travel Costs
- Speaker 1 outlines additional travel costs like insurance, visas, and airport parking, which can add up before even starting a trip. They also discuss public transport costs in cities like Paris and Melbourne.
**20:23 - 23:45**: Public Transport Challenges
- The speakers discuss the challenges of public transport in Australia, including the lack of convenience and efficiency compared to other countries.
**23:45 - 28:42**: Infrastructure and Taxation
- Discussion on infrastructure challenges in growing cities like Melbourne and Munich. They touch on the financial struggles of governments and the impact of taxes.
**28:42 - 33:10**: Competition and Market Dynamics
- Speaker 1 explains the lack of competition in Australia due to duopolies in supermarkets and airlines, leading to higher prices and limited options.
**33:10 - 38:21**: Fast Food Chains in Australia
- Discussion on the presence and challenges of international fast-food chains in Australia, including the unique case of Burger King operating as Hungry Jack's.
**38:21 - 44:02**: Quality Fast Food Options
- The speakers discuss their experiences with various burger chains like Five Guys and local options, emphasizing the importance of quality over price.
**44:02 - 50:20**: Traveling with Kids
- The benefits of traveling with children are discussed, including increased confidence, a broader worldview, and enhanced educational experiences.
**50:20 - 54:10**: Impact of Travel on Children
- Speaker 2 shares personal experiences of how travel has positively impacted their child's education and social skills, despite initial challenges upon returning home.
**54:10 - 59:13**: Home Renovations and Insurance Work
- Speaker 1 describes the ongoing insurance work at their home, the logistical challenges of coordinating tradespeople, and the associated costs.
**59:13 - 1:00:15**: Bureaucracy and Regulations
- The speakers discuss the complexities and inefficiencies of regulations in various sectors, drawing parallels to hospital operations in Denmark.
**1:00:15 - 1:00:31**: Conclusion
- The episode wraps up with the speakers bidding farewell and planning to reconnect for the next episode.
1. Exploring the Benefits of Long-Term Travel and Cultural Immersion
2. Navigating the Challenges and Rewards of Traveling with Kids
3. The Impact of Travel on Personal Growth and Worldview
4. Discovering Hidden Gems: The Joy of Unplanned Travel Adventures
5. Balancing Costs and Experiences: Travel Tips for Budget-Conscious Explorers
6. Embracing Spontaneity: The Freedom of Traveling Without a Fixed Itinerary
7. How Travel Shapes Perspectives and Fosters Tolerance in a Divided World
8. The Role of Travel in Education and Personal Development
9. Overcoming Travel Challenges: From Insurance Work to Navigating Foreign Traffic
10. The Financial Realities of Long-Term Travel and Living Abroad