In this episode of Checked In with Ryan & Jo, we explore the growing world of rail holidays with special guest Paul from Fred Holidays, the experts in tailor-made rail journeys and touring holidays.

From iconic European train travel to bucket-list scenic routes like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express and Rocky Mountaineer, we break down why rail travel holidays are becoming one of the most popular ways to see the world.

We cover:

• What a rail holiday is and how it works
• The best scenic train journeys in Europe and worldwide
• Why rail travel is a stress-free alternative to flying
• Popular multi-destination rail itineraries
• Luxury rail experiences vs classic train travel
• Who rail holidays are perfect for — couples, families and first-time travellers
• Expert tips for planning a rail holiday in 2026 and beyond

If you’re searching for European rail holidays, scenic train trips, luxury train journeys, Switzerland rail tours, Canada rail holidays or slow travel experiences, this episode is packed with expert advice and inspiration.

🎙️ Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering cruise holidays, escorted tours, destination guides, travel tips and insider travel knowledge.

This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo, we’re keeping it real… and slightly off script 👀

We’re diving into our personal holiday preferences — are we poolside loungers or out-all-day explorers? Plus, how our travel styles (and standards!) have evolved over the years.

Along the way, Ryan shares some of his funniest — and slightly questionable — holiday stories… the kind that only ever seem to happen abroad, especially from his days as a holiday rep 🍹

Expect plenty of laughs, including a sneek peak into our breakfast treats we enjoy whilst recording our podcast!

We also give you a teaser at what’s coming up over the next few weeks — Jo will be on location in Morocco, hosting a yoga retreat and Ryan will be in Canada exploring Vancouver Island. Plus our next guest joins us next week, Paul from Fred Holidays, talking all things rail travel!

So whether you’re planning your next trip or just daydreaming about one… come and get Checked In with us ✈️

New episode just landed 🎙️🇯🇵

This week on Checked In with Ryan & Jo, we’re off to Japan… and its safe to say, Ryan’s already planning his snack stops while Jo’s chasing temples, sunsets, and all the slow moments in between ✨

We’re joined by the lovely Holly from Inside Japan (one of the UK’s leading Japan specialists), who brings all the insider knowledge you actually want — not just the guidebook stuff. Think where to go beyond the obvious, how to travel Japan without feeling overwhelmed, and those little cultural details that can make or break your trip (including why KFC is a 'thing' for Christmas dinner in Japan 😅).

We chat cherry blossom season vs autumn colours, the magic of Kyoto, the buzz of Tokyo, and why Japan somehow manages to feel both wildly different and incredibly comforting at the same time. Holly also shares some of her favourite hidden gems and the kind of experiences that stay with you long after you’ve come home.

Expect a bit of chaos, a lot of wanderlust, and Ryan asking the important questions… mainly about food 🍜

If Japan’s been sitting on your “one day” list, consider this your sign to start turning it into a “book it” moment ✈️

🎧 Listen now & come travel with us...

Checked In with Ryan & Jo is your weekly travel podcast covering cruise holidays, family travel, destination guides, hotel reviews, and expert holiday planning advice.