• In this episode of the Jason Boull Travel Podcast, host Jason Boull engages with Charlie Orr from Inside Travel Group to kick off a mini-series focused on Japan. They delve into Charlie's extensive experience with the country, sharing insights from his 20-year obsession with Japan, which began with a solo backpacking trip at 18. Charlie discusses the enchanting nature of Japan, highlighting its blend of modernity and tradition, and the unique experiences that await travellers, from bustling cities to serene countryside. The conversation emphasizes the importance of engaging with locals to create lasting memories, as well as practical tips for first-time visitors, including must-see destinations and cultural etiquette.
• As they explore the allure of Japan, they touch on the country's rich history, vibrant culture, and the various regions that offer distinct experiences. Charlie provides recommendations for first-time travellers, suggesting key cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, while also addressing common misconceptions about language barriers and navigating the country. The episode wraps up with advice on how to make the most of a trip to Japan, encouraging listeners to embrace the local cuisine and immerse themselves in the culture, ensuring a memorable journey.

Planning your first trip to Japan? In this episode of the Jason Boull Travel Podcast, Jason Boull is joined by Japan specialist Charlie Orr to help first-time visitors plan with confidence — from the best starter route (Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and beyond) to how easy Japan really is to navigate, why rail travel is a joy, and smart tips like luggage forwarding to travel light. You’ll also learn key cultural etiquette (including onsen rules and tattoo considerations), plus how to avoid common pitfalls like overcrowding and trying to do too much.

Ready to make Japan happen without stress? Boullies Travel will build your personalised Japan itinerary, keeping it smooth, realistic, and packed with the experiences that matter most to you.

Takeaways

• Japan is a destination that offers endless discoveries.
• Engaging with locals creates lasting travel memories.
• Navigating Japan is easier than many think, even without Japanese language skills.
• Tokyo feels like a collection of towns rather than one city.
• Food tours can help travelers discover hidden culinary gems.

In Part 2, Natalie’s Sri Lanka nightmare continues — and this is where her instincts as a mum take over.

With her children in the back seat and the “replacement driver” swerving through the darkness, Natalie makes a split-second decision: she has to get them out of the car safely without escalating the situation. She talks through how she engineered a stop at the only service station for miles, moved luggage fast, kept the children calm, and made urgent calls until someone finally agreed to come and collect them.

Once Natalie reaches her hotel, the trip transforms. She shares the unexpected joy of Sri Lanka — surfing lessons, coastal villages, turtles, incredible food, and the warmth of local people — alongside the reality of travelling with children and why she’d do parts of the itinerary differently next time.

Jason and Natalie then unpack the real lesson: not that travel is unsafe — but that support, preparation, and trusted local partners can make all the difference when something goes wrong. Natalie also shares what she’s planning next (including Thailand), and what’s coming up for Rejuvenate, including expansion plans and the launch of an academy.