In this special Vacay Summer Drop episode, Sophie Jackson transports you from the Australian summer to the heart of a European winter wonderland, revisiting one of the most enchanting travel experiences of all, the European Christmas Markets by river cruise.

Focusing on the iconic route from Budapest to Amsterdam, Sophie is joined by Janeene from Helloworld to explore why Christmas market cruising is one of the most magical ways to experience Europe during the festive season.

Picture historic rivers lined with twinkling lights, medieval town squares alive with music, and market stalls overflowing with festive treats, handcrafted gifts and cosy winter charm. From amazing markets to wandering lantern-lit streets, this journey is packed with holiday cheer and unforgettable moments.

In this special Vacay Summer Drop episode, Sophie Jackson transports you from the Australian summer to the heart of a European winter wonderland, revisiting one of the most enchanting travel experiences of all, the European Christmas Markets by river cruise.
Focusing on the iconic route from Budapest to Amsterdam, Sophie is joined by Janeene from Helloworld to explore why Christmas market cruising is one of the most magical ways to experience Europe during the festive season.
Picture historic rivers lined with twinkling lights, medieval town squares alive with music, and market stalls overflowing with festive treats, handcrafted gifts and cosy winter charm. From amazing markets&nbsp;to wandering lantern-lit streets, this journey is packed with holiday cheer and unforgettable moments.

Begin a global journey with "The Vacay," hosted by travel enthusiast Sophie Jackson from ACE Radio and proudly partnered with nib Travel Insurance. 

Join us as we team up with Helloworld's travel experts to uncover their favourite holiday destinations while providing invaluable tips on seamless travel, optimal accommodation options, and unforgettable experiences. From hidden gems to bustling metropolises, dive into the heart of each location and get ready to curate your own extraordinary adventures. 

Subscribe now for the ultimate travel inspiration and advice! Your next memorable journey begins here.

The Vacay Podcast

Summer Drop Series - European Christmas Markets

In this episode of The Vacay Summer Drop Series, Sophie Jackson chats with Janene from Helloworld South Melbourne about the vibrant city of Athens and the dreamy islands of Greece, the perfect escape to binge over summer.

They dive into the must-see sights and unforgettable experiences that make Athens and the Greek Islands such captivating destinations for both first-time visitors and seasoned travellers. Janene shares insights into exploring the ancient wonders of the Acropolis, wandering the charming streets of Plaka, and discovering hidden neighbourhood gems far from the tourist trail. They explore Athens’ rich history, its diverse pockets of culture, and the beautiful fusion of old and new that defines the city.

Then it’s off to the islands, from the iconic favourites to the quieter, lesser-known spots, perfect for relaxing, exploring, and escaping the crowds.

Join Sophie and Janene as they uncover the history, culture and irresistible charm of Athens, and dive into the Greek Islands, a paradise of crystal-clear waters, sun-soaked beaches, and unique island personalities. A must-visit on any trip to Greece.

In this episode of The Vacay Summer Drop Series, Sophie Jackson chats with Janene from Helloworld South Melbourne about the vibrant city of Athens and the dreamy islands of Greece, the perfect escape to binge over summer.
They dive into the must-see sights and unforgettable experiences that make Athens and the Greek Islands such captivating destinations for both first-time visitors and seasoned travellers. Janene shares insights into exploring the ancient wonders of the Acropolis, wandering the charming streets of Plaka, and discovering hidden neighbourhood gems far from the tourist trail. They explore Athens&rsquo; rich history, its diverse pockets of culture, and the beautiful fusion of old and new that defines the city.
Then it&rsquo;s off to the islands, from the iconic favourites to the quieter, lesser-known spots, perfect for relaxing, exploring, and escaping the crowds.
Join Sophie and Janene as they uncover the history, culture and irresistible charm of Athens, and dive into the Greek Islands, a paradise of crystal-clear waters, sun-soaked beaches, and unique island personalities. A must-visit on any trip to Greece.

Summer Drop Series - Athens & The Greek Islands

In this episode of The Vacay Summer Drop Series, we’re rehashing one of our all-time favourite adventures to binge over summer. Sophie Jackson is joined by Jacinta from Helloworld to explore Finland’s enchanting northern region, Lapland, the official home of Santa Claus.

Together they dive into everything this magical destination offers, from witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights and visiting Santa Claus Village, to racing through the wilderness on a dog sled. They also uncover the surprising charm of Lapland in summer, the “Land of the Midnight Sun,” where the days never end and the adventures don’t either.

A true bucket-list destination.

In this episode of The Vacay Summer Drop Series, we&rsquo;re rehashing one of our all-time favourite adventures to binge over summer. Sophie Jackson is joined by Jacinta from Helloworld to explore Finland&rsquo;s enchanting northern region, Lapland, the official home of Santa Claus.
Together they dive into everything this magical destination offers, from witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights and visiting Santa Claus Village, to racing through the wilderness on a dog sled. They also uncover the surprising charm of Lapland in summer, the &ldquo;Land of the Midnight Sun,&rdquo; where the days never end and the adventures don&rsquo;t either.
A true bucket-list destination.

Summer Drop Series - Lapland

In this episode of The Vacay, Sophie sits down with Stacey Brownsey from Helloworld to uncover a quieter, more authentic side of Japan, the charming towns of Takayama and Kanazawa.

Far from the neon lights of Tokyo, these destinations offer a window into Japan’s timeless traditions.
From samurai districts and centuries old teahouses in Kanazawa to the wooden streets of Takayama, this journey captures the beauty of old world Japan at a slower, more soulful pace.

Stacey shares stories of visiting UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go, staying in a traditional ryokan, bathing in onsens, and tasting some of Japan’s finest seafood and Hida beef. It’s an episode filled with warmth, discovery, and the kind of travel that lingers long after you return home.

 

In this episode of&nbsp;The Vacay, Sophie sits down with&nbsp;Stacey Brownsey from Helloworld&nbsp;to uncover a quieter, more authentic side of Japan, the charming towns of&nbsp;Takayama and Kanazawa.
Far from the neon lights of Tokyo, these destinations offer a window into Japan&rsquo;s timeless traditions. From&nbsp;samurai districts and centuries old teahouses&nbsp;in Kanazawa to the&nbsp;wooden streets&nbsp;of Takayama, this journey captures the beauty of old world Japan at a slower, more soulful pace.
Stacey shares stories of visiting&nbsp;UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go, staying in a traditional&nbsp;ryokan, bathing in onsens, and tasting some of Japan&rsquo;s finest&nbsp;seafood and Hida beef. It&rsquo;s an episode filled with warmth, discovery, and the kind of travel that lingers long after you return home.
&nbsp;

Summer Drop Series - European Christmas Markets

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