Is the traditional summer holiday dead? Kevin examines the evidence and finds that global climate change is changing the ways we look at our annual vacation. “With fires, extreme weather conditions and extended periods of 40 degree plus heat - travellers around the world are changing their plans and with good reason.” says Kevin, but what are we to do in the face of severe weather warnings and the resultant travel disruption? In this podcast Kevin looks at the data and sees some grounds for...

The word “Hidden Gem” is often overused but when it comes to Ljubljana, Slovenia's capital, it is “entirely appropriate” according to Kevin Flanagan. Kevin goes on to explain that “I was not even sure where Slovenia was let alone Ljubljana!” But that all changed on a recent trip. “The city is one of the most sophisticated and friendly I have ever visited. It’s like Paris but on a human, manageable scale. And when it comes to food and wine it sometimes outperforms it’s bigger rival, which says...

I was in Dubai Airport waiting for a flight home when I heard the devastating news that one of my best friends, Paul McGlade, had died suddenly. I was in shocked disbelief and broke down in tears. One week later I am recording this podcast both as a memorial to a great friendship and as a wake-up call to myself (and anyone who is listening) as to the importance of healing rifts and keeping friendships alive. In this podcast I recall three destinations I visited with Paul: Goa in India,...

Ever been to a hometown wedding that was ruined by the rain or cold? Or full of people that don’t know one another? Kevin Flanagan has and he has found a remedy. ”Many European weddings are prohibitively expensive and often packed with distant relatives or friends that meet for a day and are rarely seen again.”  So what is the remedy? In this podcast Kevin recounts two recent nuptials that combined a fabulous sun holiday with an intimate party setting, while NOT costing the earth. Listen to...

Kevin Flanagan takes his two travelling pals, Kuba (10) and Maya (7), to a city that utterly delighted them. “I found Antwerp had everything for an adult,” Kevin said, “fabulous restaurants and lively bars, while the art offering is second-to-none. And the newly developed docklands area has such terrific additions as the MAS - the Museum aan de Stroom, which afforded us hours of fun.”   And the kids? “Kuba and Maya had a ball. From the zoo to Chocolate Nation (the largest chocolate themed...

Have you ever had the misfortune to sit next to some distraught parents as they try and keep their sick, overtired or petulant and narky child quiet? And if you are that parent how do you keep your children entertained and amused enough not to go off the edge? Kevin Flanagan has a lot of experience travelling with his two young grandkids, Kuba ad Maya, and has observed and learnt some hard lessons. And here he shares his hard-won wisdom on keeping the kids (and therefore himself) happy on...

Kevin Flanagan looks ahead to the fast-approaching autumn and presents six wonderful city breaks with a difference! From viewing the geysers and natural wonders when visiting Reykjavík in Iceland, to the bohemian hotspots of Tbilisi, Georgia.  From the medieval magnificence of Valletta’s old city in Malta to the raucous, edgy day and night life of Berlin. And from the wonders of Athens, seen at a time of the year when the temperatures are bearable, to the mysteries of Dubrovnik and Cavtat in...

“Reading a book is like taking a holiday - they are both breaks from the routine of day-to-day life and as such very valuable,” says Kevin Flanagan. But how do you go about selecting your book?  Kevin shares five key ways to pick a book that will both entertain and enlighten you on your precious holiday break! Listen now to find out more. And why not listen back to The Top Travel Destinations special guides to find out where to stay, eat, drink and explore in some of the world’s top...

Is Sani Resort in Greece the best family-friendly resort in the world? Very possibly! According to TripAdvisor, Sani Resort is one of the Top 10 Hotels for Families in the World, one of the Top 5 Hotels for Families in Europe and the Top Hotel for Families in Greece.  The reasons? Perhaps it is the UEFA approved soccer pitch with coaching courtesy of Chelsea Football Club? Or the Rafa Nadal tennis coaching on first class tennis facilities? The free Babywatch - baby beach-minding service? The...

Did you know that the majority of what we pack in our suitcase is seldom, if ever, used? And with checked-in luggage and being lost at an alarming rate and sky-high prices on large suitcases Kevin shares the secret of successful packing which will also allow you to save money!  You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates:  Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinations X: @becreativkev Facebook: The Top Travel Destinations

Nada Belazouz (https://www.instagram.com/belaz_spots/) is one of France’s most popular influencers and here she shares with Kevin her favourite places to shop, eat, drink, party, explore and stay. It is the true insider's guide and one that will help anyone attending the Paris Olympics or planning a short city break. You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates:  Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinations X: @becreativkev Facebook: The Top Travel Destinations

Leading travel company Click&Go Holidays carried out a survey that showed that 56% of people had still not booked their summer holidays as of July 4th - Independence Day. And this prompted Kevin Flanagan to look at how you can actually turn this lateness in booking to your advantage by finding some of the best deals around!  “Travel companies need to sell their allocations of hotel beds and flights,” says Kevin, “so if you are clever and follow my advice, you can actually land fabulous...

“Málaga Old Town is a place that everybody has heard about but few have actually visited!” The Travel Expert Sarah Slattery told Kevin Flanagan. “I’ve been coming to Málaga for 30 years without ever actually going into the old city. And it's a gorgeous city.”  Sarah describes the incredible architecture, the amazing streets buzzing with tapas bars, and of course the museum and birthplace of its local hero Pablo Picasso.  Join Sarah as she takes us on a personal tour revealing some of...

When visiting Bangkok just after a very Draconian lockdown, Kevin Flanagan finds himself at a loose end. That is until he finds a TRUE Diamond in Bangkok.  Listen to Kevin’s story now. And why not listen back to The Top Travel Destinations Bangkok special guide to find out where to stay, eat, drink and explore in one of the world’s top destinations?  Plus, follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media!  Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinations X: @becreativkev Facebook: The Top Travel...

This week, Kevin Flanagan, a seasoned travel journalist and travel editor with the Sunday Independent, reflects on the transformative power of travel and takes a spiritual trip to the diverse city of Bangkok in Thailand. From the sacred beauty of temples to the excitement of the city's nightlife, Kevin will be your travel companion, offering insights into the best places to stay, eat, drink, and shop. And to really experience Bangkok like a local, Kevin chats to native Diamond who...

Since they were able to walk and talk, Kevin Flanagan has made sure to travel with his grandkids Kuba (9)  and Maya (7).  “When Kuba was 4, I took him skiing. Since then, three of us have enjoyed multiple ski holidays, as well as trips to Lake Garda, Venice, Antwerp and Ghent,” says Kevin. The upside of travelling with your grandkids? “You get to share what you love, which for me is skiing and art. And it's a gift that will keep on giving when they are adults. Plus, I have learnt so much...

Let the curious mind of PJ Rigney - the creator of the iconic Drumshanbo Gin - take you on a journey to his Top Travel Destinations in conversation with Kevin Flanagan. And listen in wonder as he takes you around Delhi, India, Shanghai, China and the city of New York.  PJ shares his ideas on what to do, where to stay, eat and drink and how to explore these fabulous destinations. It is a rare chance to interact with and enjoy the curious mind of one of Ireland’s most innovative...

Kevin Flanagan goes on a quest to find you the ultimate in luxury - introducing you to some of the most expensive hotels in the world. In this episode, you will discover unparalleled service and a level of comfort that will take your breath away. See what it is like to live the life of a billionaire, politician or member of a royal family as you visit some of the most iconic addresses in the world..  Plus, follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media!  Instagram:...

Kevin Flanagan holds your hand and becomes your personal guide so you can enjoy the delights of the French city of Bordeaux. In this episode of The Top Travel Destinations podcast, Kevin unveils Bordeaux's secrets, from its ancient origins to its world-renowned wines. He shares three accommodation options to suit diverse budgets and handpicks Bordeaux's culinary treasures. Kevin also imparts his wisdom on wine shopping, decoding wine terminology, and savouring Bordeaux's wines...

Nobody knows travel better than Anita Thomas, the Head of Emirates in Ireland, the world’s largest international airline. And in this remarkable interview, she shares all her top travel tips with Kevin Flanagan. “What Anita doesn’t know about travel isn’t worth knowing,” says Kevin, “and I learned a lot. Listen to her tips and you will definitely have a better holiday experience,” adds Kevin, “and that really is priceless.” Don’t forget to follow and rate the podcast. And why not listen back...

Anita Thomas, the Head of Emirates in Ireland, shares her tips with Kevin Flanagan on where to stay, shop, eat, drink and explore in her chosen destination: Dubai.  “I found Anita’s insights into Dubai remarkable,” says Kevin Flanagan, the host of The Top Travel Destinations podcast, “I always thought Dubai was a luxury stop off for couples, but Anita opened my eyes to the fabulous opportunities for both families and groups of friends to explore this unique and fascinating location. She...

Kevin Flanagan did so on a trip around Ireland, and found it to be one of the most exciting and unique experiences he experienced in his three decades of travel! Join him as he boards his private train and begins a journey that lives long in the memory. And why not listen back to The Top Travel Destinations special guides to find out where to stay, eat, drink and explore in some of the world’s top destinations?  Plus, follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media!  Instagram:...

Catherine de Crèvecoeur is one of the UK’s top international  jewellery designers. And here in conversation with Kevin Flanagan, she describes an ‘all-girls’ visit to the idyllic island destination of Jamaica. But is Jamaica an idyllic place to forge unforgettable memories?  Listen as Catherine takes us behind the scenes and shows us what a holiday in Jamaica is really like in this must-hear podcast for anyone intending to visit Jamaica! Don’t forget to follow and rate the podcast!  And for...

“Pussy cat, pussy cat, where have you been? I've been to London to visit the Queen.” Kevin Flanagan didn’t meet the Queen in London, but in Singapore and what a gift she gave him. It was in a franchise shop at the busy Changi Airport, one of the largest transportation hubs in Asia, where Kevin literally bumped into Her Majesty. And that started a chain of events that gave him one of the greatest journeys and thrills of his life! Listen to Kevin’s account of a magic and royal moment. And...

Kevin Flanagan visits his hometown of London and shares his insider knowledge of where to stay, eat, drink and explore. Kevin will help you enjoy a city break that will make memories for life. Plus, hidden gems and the lowdown on some of the hippest places that make the celebrity headlines! And he answers the question - are they worth a visit?  Listen to the episode now and don’t forget to follow and rate the podcast! For more information and links to attractions in London, visit the...