After visiting Bhutan, which sat at number one on my travel list for years, I found myself in a strange lull. It's like winning a championship—all that buildup, all that emotion, and then it's over. What next?

So I've been thinking long and hard about where to go next. These aren't bucket list boxes to tick or trendy destinations to follow. These are places I genuinely can't let go of in my mind. Here are my top 16, ranked in order of how much they've been occupying my thoughts.

The travel podcast world has absolutely exploded over the last few years. With more storytellers, digital nomads, and adventurers sharing their experiences than ever before, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's why I've put together this handpicked list of the best travel podcasts heading into 2026.

These shows consistently deliver great stories, practical advice, honest perspectives, and that wonderful feeling of being transported somewhere new. Whether you're into budget travel, cultural deep dives, long-form interviews, solo travel reflections, or just want an audio escape for your commute, there's something here for you.

Important note: All podcasts on this list are active and have released episodes within the last two months.

My episodes in February and March on the Winging It Travel Podcast will focus on El Salvador, where I travelled in November 2024. There will be immersive episodes, interviews, itineraries, and a reflection conversation with Leah from Ticket 2 Anywhere, who also travelled there in December 2024.

It proves to be a great few months showcasing this great country!

The first episode is an audio-immersive journey through the capital city, San Salvador.

My 172nd guest episode on the Winging It Travel Podcast is with a school friend and a returning guest, Adam Bamford. In fact, Adam was the first guest on the podcast back in 2021, so it was great to have him back.

This episode is divided into two parts. The first is a history lesson on Norwich, providing facts and figures, and then the Top 10 Things To Do in Norwich.

The second is delving into our favourite restaurants, cafes, lunch spots, streets, culture and Norfolk day trips.