Wander Every Day: Real Talk, Real Trips

About Wander Every Day: Real Talk, Real Trips

Wander Every Day is the podcast where real travel stories meet smart recs + great chats. Hosted by Day — a deal-finder, storyteller, and your go-to travel friend — each episode dives into honest conversations with well-traveled friends about where to stay, what to eat, what not to waste your time (or money) on, and how to wander smarter. If you love adventure, good vibes, and learning tips and tricks for planning travel, you’re in the right place. ✈️🌍 Let’s wander.

Publisher

Daytona Gilroy-Briand

Category

leisure · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

4 May 2025

Latest episode

22 Dec 2025

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   22 Dec 2025

   Episode 13: From the Bernina Express to Lake Como (+ a quick Ischia and Naples review) with Day

   Season 2 of Wander Every Day kicks off with a personal trip recap as I take you along on Nick and I’s September journey through Switzerland and Italy, a perfect mix of smooth logistics, unforgettable scenery, and seriously good food. We start in the sky, reviewing our business class flights from Toronto to Montréal with Air Canada, then onward to Zurich with Swiss Air. From there, I share highlights from a day exploring Zurich, followed by an unexpectedly magical evening in Chur, Switzerland’s oldest town, where we enjoyed some of the best food and drinks of the entire trip. Next up is one of Europe’s most iconic train journeys: the Bernina Express. I break down what makes this route so special, what to expect onboard, and whether it lives up to the hype. From the Alps, we head south to Lake Como, spending a weekend in Vezio just outside Varenna, soaking up lake views, charming villages, and slow Italian mornings. The journey continues with a high-speed train to Naples, followed by a dreamy escape to Ischia. I talk seafood-filled meals, the island’s relaxed pace of life, and a deep dive into the Poseidon Thermal Gardens. We wrap up the trip back in Naples, staying in the Spanish Quarter, eating plenty of pizza, and exploring the city with the help of a Rick Steves free audio walking tour. This episode is packed with practical tips, honest reflections, and inspiration for combining Switzerland and Italy into one unforgettable itinerary. It’s the perfect way to kick off Season 2 of Wander Every Day! 🎧 Let’s wander. Timestamp: 0:00 Intro: What I’ve Been Up Too + Season 1 Stats!! 7:36 Business Class Experience: Toronto Pearson Airport, Maple Leaf Lounge vs Air Canada Café, Swiss Business Class + the Business Arrivals Lounge in Zurich 14:22 Zurich: Day-Trip Logistics, the Aqueduct Market + Frau Gerolds Garden 18:55 The Bernina Express: Highly Recommended Food and Drink in Chur, Info for Booking + Expectations 28:11 Lake Como: Train Accessibility, Accomodation Options + Varenna and Bellagio Food Recs 35:42 Trains: Possible Delays, Milano Centrale Station + High Speed Overview 39:23 Ischia: Seafood Galour, Taking the Bus, Ischia Porto Fest + Poseidon Thermal Gardens 46:06 Naples: Best accommodation of the trip, Popular Pizza Spots, Travel Mishaps + Rick Steve’s Free Audio Tours 51:20 Final Recommendations: Weather variations, eSims + the Strong Suggestion to Travel Deeper

2. 

   2 Sept 2025

   Episode 12: Tastes of Italy Part 2 - The Sparkle of Florence + the Food Scene of Rome with Al

   In the second half of my conversation with Al, we dive into two of Italy’s most iconic cities: Florence and Rome. From cozy agriturismos in the Tuscan countryside to sipping wine at charming Roman bars, this episode is a foodie and culture lover’s dream. In Florence, we talk Air bnbs, sandwiches from All’Antico Vinaio, coffee culture across Italy, exploring the world-famous Uffizi Gallery, and whether Florence has lost a bit of its sparkle under the weight of tourism. In Rome, it’s all about the food and atmosphere: we break down the four classic Roman pastas, debate Roman vs Neapolitan pizza, and talk about what it’s like to explore the Colosseum during the Ryder Cup crowds. Plus, wine bar recommendations, aperitivo culture, and plenty of travel tips for making the most of these vibrant cities. Whether you’re dreaming of your first Italian adventure or planning a return to soak in more pasta, pizza, and history—this episode will give you insider tips and inspiration to experience Florence and Rome like a local. 🎧 Let’s wander. Timestamp: 2:03 Florence: Air B&B, Al Antico Vinaio Sandwiches, Utilitarian Coffee, Uffizi Gallery, Agriturismos + Has Florence Lost its Sparkle? 11:01 Rome: The Ryder Cup, the Four Pastas of Rome, Neapolitan Pizza vs Roman Pizza, Wine Bar Recommendations, Apperitvo Culture, Colosseum Tour + Pre-planning Attractions 25:37 Reflections on Italy Trip and Recommendations 29:36 This or That: Bella Italia Edition 30:34 Listener Questions: Is Rome Overhyped + Best Restaurants in Italy

3. 

   26 Aug 2025

   Episode 11: Tastes of Italy Part 1 - Ischia by Boat + Naples by Bite with Al

   In this episode of Wander Every Day, my friend Al joins me to dive into the first half of her Italian adventure – exploring the island charm of Ischia and the bustling streets of Naples. 🌊 Ischia: We chat about staying in Ischia Porto, sipping rucolino, taking a boat tour to see La Mano di Dio and the Green Grotto, riding the island bus, soaking in thermal bath parks, and of course trying the island specialty, coniglio all’ischiatana. Plus, we compare Ischia to nearby Capri and the Amalfi Coast – is it the hidden gem worth choosing? 🍕 Naples: From exploring the Catacombs of San Gennaro to diving deep into Naples’ legendary pizza scene, we review Michelin-recognized favourites like L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, Gino e Toto Sorbillo, Pizzeria Vincenzo Capuano and Pepe in Grani. We also share a wine-filled stop at Vineria Bandita and chat about Naples’ complicated reputation. ✈️ Italy Travel Tips: We round out the episode with practical advice – from avoiding pickpockets, to navigating Italy’s mix of trains, ferries, and metros, to cost expectations and the best times of year to visit. If you’ve ever wondered whether to put Ischia or Naples on your Italy itinerary (or if you’re just here for the pizza talk), this episode is packed with insight. 🎧 It’s time to experience la dolce vita! Timestamp: 2:47 Introduction to Al: Frequenter of Italy, Lover of Pizza and Wine + Discovering Italy without a Car 12:56 Travel Tips: Planning in Advance, Accommodation Accessibility, Avoid August Travel? + General Review of our Budgets and Cost 25:07 Arrival in Italy, Beware of Pickpockets + Every Mode of Transport in Italy 31:53 Ischia: Getting Around the Island with the Bus, Boat Trip Around the Island, Coniglio all'ischiatana, Rucolino Amaro, Thermal Baths + Comparison to Amalfi and Capri 51:37 Naples: The Grit, Character and Authenticity, the Pizza Journey, the Catacombs of San Genaro and San Genaro Day, and using the Michelin Guide while Traveling (it’s not always super expensive!)

4. 

   12 Aug 2025

   Episode 10: Lisbon Food and Winter Travel with Emily

   In this deliciously travel-filled episode of Wander Every Day, I sit down with my friend Emily — culinary school graduate, owner of @ems_treats, and mom of two — to hear all about her 10-day winter adventure in Lisbon, Portugal. Emily, her husband Kyle, daughters Spencer (3) and McKenna (8 months), her mom, and her sister stayed in a cozy Airbnb and explored Lisbon’s charm one cobblestoned hill at a time. From day trips to the stunning Botanical Gardens, seaside Cascais, and the magical castles of Sintra, to soaking up the culture at LX Factory and Time Out Market, they made the most of their family getaway. Of course, no trip with Emily is complete without a food quest — and this time, it was all about pasteis de nata. Hear how she tried 30 different custard tarts to find the ultimate winner, plus her thoughts on the city’s fresh fish, potatoes, and mouthwatering restaurants. You’ll also get tips for tackling Lisbon’s famously steep, cobblestone streets with little ones. If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Lisbon, especially with kids, or simply want the inside scoop from a foodie’s perspective, this episode is packed with inspiration, travel tips, and (of course) plenty of pastry talk. 🎧 Listen now and get ready to fall in love with Portugal! Timestamp: 0:00 Introduction to Emily and Wander Every Day 3:30 Camping in New Zealand: Bringing Tents, Unpredicted Rain + Wild Animals of the Region 6:54 Pasteis de Nata with a Culinary School Grad, Emily’s Travel Tips and Style + Shareable Google Maps Map 18:06 Day 1: Down Down with Illness + Air B&B 24:35 Day 2: the Best Cafe in Lisbon (spoiler - it’s vegan!), Botanical Gardens + Beautiful Dinner in Lisbon 30:04 Day 3: Beach in Cascais + Best Gelato in Lisbon 33:31 Day 4: Castle Sao Jorge, the Real Facts about Pasteis di Nata + SOL Restaurant (10/10!) 37:26 Day 5: Timeout Market, Pasteis de Belem + Hilly, Hilly Lisbon 45:47 Day 6: Sintra, Castles like Hogwarts + Quinta da Regaleira 50:12 Day 7-10: Wandering the Cobblestone Streets, LX Factory + Baixa 56:38 Trip Reflections 1:00:38 Rapid Fire 1:03:41 Listener Questions: Balancing Sight-seeing + Parenting, Lisbon Stroller Accessible + Public Transportation Links: Lisbon Sharable Google Map Locations (https://maps.app.goo.gl/DNPaJA4bjcvWZHRHA) Lisbon Air B&B (https://www.airbnb.ca/rooms/709435715553118635?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76&source_impression_id=p3_1754963684_P3nrxPKmnPW2OeN6) Recommended Restaurants: Javá, SOL Restaurante e Jardim Best Café: Gal Café (Vegan Cafe) Best Gelato: Insano Gelato Best Pasteis di Nata: Aloma

5. 

   5 Aug 2025

   Episode 9: Aeroplan and Membership Rewards Optimization with Day

   In this solo episode of Wander Every Day, we’re diving into the art of using Aeroplan points and Membership Rewards to make travel more affordable—and sometimes downright luxurious. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your strategy, this episode breaks down the essentials of both collecting and redeeming points in Canada. We cover: ✈️ What your Aeroplan points are actually worth 💳 How to collect more points through sign-up bonuses, strategic credit card spending, and bonus offers 📊 How to optimize redemptions using the Aeroplan Flight Reward Chart, understanding dynamic pricing, and calculating cost-per-point (CPP) 🧠 Tools & experts to help you maximize value—like Roame, Ricky Zhang from Prince of Travel, and Canadian Jetsetters From roundtrip economy to dream-worthy business class flights, this episode is packed with practical advice, real examples, and personal wins that prove points can take you further than you think—if you use them wisely. Links: American Express Cobalt Card Referral Link (https://americanexpress.com/en-ca/referral/cobalt?ref=dAYTOGhSUb&XLINK=MYCP) Aeroplan Flight Rewards Chart (https://www.aircanada.com/content/dam/aircanada/loyalty-content/documents/flight-rewards-chart-en.pdf) Prince of Travel Aeroplan (https://princeoftravel.com/points-programs/aeroplan/) Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction to Point Collection and Redemption 8:03 Optimizing Point Collection: Sign-up Bonuses with the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card 11:32 Optimizing Point Collection: Day-to-day Spending with the Amex Cobalt Card 13:05 Optimizing Point Collection: Bonus Offers and Promotions 12:49 Optimizing Redeeming Points: Star Alliance Price Chart 14:04 Optimizing Redeeming Points: Dynamic Pricing 15:28 Optimizing Redeeming Points:Cost-per-point Ratios 17:37 Closing Tips: Roame, Ricky Zhang + Other Resources

6. 

   15 Jul 2025

   Episode 8: Switzerland and North Central Italy (+ a taste of Spain) with Christina

   This week on Wander Every Day, I’m joined by my sister-in-law Christina, who went on a month-long slow-travel adventure across Switzerland, Italy, and Spain. From postcard-perfect aperitivo moments in Milan to a hidden gem village in Cinque Terre, Christina shares not just where she went — but what it felt like to be there. We talk honestly about the cost of traveling Switzerland (is it worth it?), the simple magic of sipping wine in small Italian towns, and how meeting a local artist in Florence became a highlight of her trip. And when Spain came calling… did she secretly regret leaving Italy behind? 🗺️ In this episode, we chat about: • Why Switzerland’s beauty requires planning to allow for a budget price tag • The perfect aperitivo moments in Milan 🍸 • A hidden gem in Cinque Terre (that isn’t where most tourists go) • Meeting a passionate artist in his Florence gallery 🎨 • Second-guessing whether leaving Italy for Spain was the right move • The slower, reflective side of travel — and what Christina would change next time We also talk European trains, review some top bar cafés in Milano, and really dive into whether traveling Europe in summer is worth the price, traffic + heat. Whether you're mapping out your next Europe trip or wondering if Italy deserves more of your itinerary — this episode’s for you. 🎧 Let's wander. Recommendations: Felix - Milano Mag Cafe - Milano Bar Bello - Montreal Pastaficio di Canneto - Genova Il Gattaccio - Vernazza Timestamp 0:00 Introduction to the Pod 2:41 Christinas Travel Style: Travelling with Friends, Authentic Travel Experiences + Preferred Pace of Travel 19:18 Switzerland: Fribourg, Montreux Jazz Fest, Gruyère cheese, Lausanne Beach Day + Marzili Bern 29:25 Switzerland is Expensive: Food + Trains (including the Bernina Express) 37:23 Milan: Appetitivo Hour, Duomo at Golden Hour + Speak Easy Culture 43:03 Genoa: Pastaficio di Canneto Pasta Restaurant, Unexpected Beach Vibes + Castelletto Views 46:47 Cinque Terre: Hidden Gem Town + Hiking Path, Overtourism in the Main Towns + Efficiency of the Train (Unless it’s on strike…) 57:50 Firenze “Florence”: Art Gallery Socials, Surviving the Heat + Day's Flashback to Engagement Pics in the Bardini Gardens 1:02:52 Quick Taste of Bologna: Bolognese, Food and Wine 1:04:37 Madrid: Spain Regrets?, El Retiro Park + Navigating Madrid Train Station 1:10:51 Barcelona: Beware of Phone Thieves, Jamon Iberico + Sitges 1:23:55 This or That: Euro Summer Edition 1:24:47 Listener Questions: People Watching at Apperitivo Hour + Where Would You Go Back

7. 

   8 Jul 2025

   Episode 7: Travelling with Kids to Barcelona and Costa Daurada Spain with Gates and Laura

   Gates and Laura share insights from their family trip to Barcelona and Costa Daurada, Spain, discussing beaches, attractions, and managing travel with young children in this interview episode.

8. 

   24 Jun 2025

   Episode 6: The Ultimate African Safari in Tanzania (+ Beaching Around in Zanzibar) with Francesca

   Host interviews Francesca about her unforgettable Tanzania and Zanzibar trip, including a six-day Serengeti safari with wildlife encounters and cultural experiences, offering insights for planning an African adventure.

9. 

   17 Jun 2025

   Episode 5: Budget Review of the Golden Route (+ Nikko, Okinawa & Hakone) in Japan with Maddie

   Maddie shares her budget-conscious travel experiences in Japan, including visits to Misaki, Nikko, Tokyo, and Nara, offering insights into Japanese culture and cuisine in this interview with the host.

10. 

    10 Jun 2025

    Episode 4: Christmas Time Eastern European Contiki tour (+ a Taste of Italia) with 3-time JEOPARDY! Winner Diandra

    Three-time Jeopardy! champion Diandra recounts her whirlwind Contiki tour through six Eastern European countries during Christmas market season, highlighting the joys and challenges of fast-paced group travel in an interview with the host.

11. 

    3 Jun 2025

    Episode 3: Hidden Mainland Gems and Greek Island Cruising with Day

    Host discusses her recent Greek trip with her husband, Nick, highlighting mainland gems like Nafplio and a seven-night island cruise, offering personal recommendations and honest takes.

12. 

    27 May 2025

    Episode 2: Greek Honeymoon Island Hopping Adventure with Nick and Lindsey

    Nick and Lindsey recount their two-week Greek honeymoon island-hopping adventure, detailing their itinerary from Athens to Santorini, Naxos, and Paros, in an interview about balancing indulgence and relaxation.

13. 

    20 May 2025

    Episode 1: Budget Travelling in Thailand and Vietnam with Samantha

    In our very first episode of Wander Every Day, I’m chatting with my budget-savvy friend Sam, who just wrapped up a 14-day adventure through Thailand and Vietnam with her friend Rich. From partying at Khao San Market to soaking up the sun in Kappa, Sam shares how they made the most of every dollar — and every day. Expect stories from: ✅ Chiang Mai’s Songkran Festival — where the water fights are epic and the budget is minimal ✅ A jungle cooking class that turned into a wild experience ✅ Heartwarming moments at an elephant sanctuary ✅ An authentic homestay in Sa Pa just a hop and a skip away from the renowned rice fields of Vietnam ✅ Hostel life, travel hacks, and unexpected finds along the way Whether you’re planning your own Southeast Asia trip or just want to live vicariously through some unforgettable travel tales, this episode is packed with smart recs, hilarious mishaps, and serious wanderlust inspo. Tune in now! 🌟🎧 Chapters 00:00 Choosing Thailand and Vietnam: The Journey Begins 07:31 General Trip Overview and Itinerary: Thailand and Vietnam 09:43 Cultural Shock in Vietnam: A Different World 11:40 General Overview of Hostel Stays 15:05 Bangkok: Khao San Market, Floating Market, Muay Thai, Street Food + Massages 19:39 Krabi: Reeve Beach Club, Tuktuk Travel + Nomads Hostel Review 22:29 Ko Phi Phi: Longtail Boat Tour + Beaches 25:37: Khao Sok National Park: Jungle Cooking, Elephant Sanctuary + Bamboo River Tour 34:19: Chiang Mai: Songkran Festival + Water Gun Fights 38:34: Other Thoughts and Recommendations for Thailand 40:02 Hanoi: Chaotic Streets + Traditional Vietnamese Cuisine 41:27: Kappa: Cruising, Family Style Meals + Enjoying the Water 43:44 Sa Pa: Homestays + Adventures in the Rice Fields 49:15 Ninh Binh: Motorbike Tours + Mu'a Cave Hike 53:51 Hanoi Part 2: Culinary Adventures and Shopping in Vietnam 56:02 Comparing Thailand and Vietnam 57:11 Future Travel Aspirations 57:59 Rapid Fire Travel Questions 01:00:27 Cultural Etiquette and Customs 01:01:30 Final Travel Tips and Reflections #TravelPodcast #WanderEveryDay #BudgetTravel #SoutheastAsia #ThailandTravel #VietnamAdventures #BackpackingTips #TravelStories #NewEpisode #PodcastLaunch

14. 

    4 May 2025

    The trailer for WANDER EVERY DAY: REAL TALK, REAL TRIPS

    🎙️ Welcome to WANDER EVERY DAY! In this trailer episode, host Day gives you a sneak peek into what WANDER EVERY DAY: REAL TALK, REAL TRIPS is all about — real travel stories, smart recommendations, and honest conversations with well-traveled friends. ✨ What to Expect: • Travel that feels real, doable, and fun • Tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to wander smarter • Weekly episodes full of stories, laughs, and practical advice Whether you’re trip-planning or daydreaming, this podcast is your go-to for thoughtful travel inspiration without the fluff. Connect with me! 👉 Follow the show + get ready to wander! 📲 @wander_every_day on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/wander_every_day/), TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@wander_every_day) and on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@Wander_Every_Day)

Who has been a guest on Wander Every Day: Real Talk, Real Trips

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Gates
• Laura
• Francesca
• Maddie
• Diandra

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

207

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Podcast Authority Score: 42 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

59

Social presence

0

YouTube

66

Engagement

0

Contact Wander Every Day: Real Talk, Real Trips

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.