In this episode of the Wander Your Way Travel Podcast, Lynne sits down with author Kat Koch to dive into the magic, mystery, and everyday beauty of West Cork, Ireland — the place that inspired her memoir, Rainbow Weather: Stories from a Beautiful Nowhere.

Kat shares how a childhood dream, sparked by a piece of film music, eventually pulled her across the Atlantic and into the rugged, soul-stirring landscapes of West Cork.

She spent four and a half years living there, following her intuition, navigating challenges, and discovering the serendipitous moments that shaped both her book and her personal journey.

Together, Lynne and Kat chat about the warmth of the West Cork community, the power of traveling with an open heart, and how letting curiosity lead the way can create the most unexpected connections.

Kat reflects on how the Irish countryside — its coastline, its quiet, its raw beauty — changed her, grounded her, and helped her integrate the highs and lows of living abroad.

If you’re dreaming of Ireland or searching for a destination rich with culture, scenery, and soul, this conversation delivers plenty of inspiration.

Kat leaves listeners with thoughtful travel wisdom and her favorite hidden gems across West Cork — the kind of places that make you want to pack a bag and chase a little “rainbow weather” of your own.

Want to chat more about West Cork?

Email Lynne — Lynne@WanderYourWay.com

In this episode:

1:19: Intro + Kat Koch bio

5:20: Placing West Cork Ireland on the map

5:45: Kat's story

12:07: Writing a book

15:19: Challenges & perks

23:43: Ending a chapter

26:49: Favorite places

39:07: Standout stories

45:12: More popular places

54:08: Final thoughts

1:02:33: My final thoughts on Kat's book

1:04:39: Wrapping it up

Important links:

Rainbow Weather: Stories From a Beautiful Nowhere by Kat Koch

Rainbow Weather Instagram

West Cork Ireland

The Best Things to Do in Schull and West Cork Ireland

Tracy's List (Solo Traveler)

West Cork (Ireland tourism)

Wander Your Way Resources

Wander Your Way Adventures

Wander Your Way

In this episode, we dive into the charm of Strasbourg — a city where French and German influences blend beautifully and every stroll feels like stepping into a storybook.

It’s the perfect intro if you’re dreaming about visiting Strasbourg or just want a taste of what makes this Alsatian gem so irresistible.

We start in UNESCO-listed Petite France, the postcard-perfect corner of Strasbourg famous for its half-timbered houses, flower-filled balconies and winding canals.

It’s one of those spots where you swear you’ll stop taking photos… and then immediately take five more.

Then it’s on to the showstopper: the Strasbourg Cathedral.

This Gothic marvel is impossible to miss — soaring spires, an astronomical clock that’s downright mesmerizing and stained glass that turns sunlight into magic.

If you’re visiting Strasbourg, this is the landmark you’ll remember long after you’ve left.

Of course, tasting Flammekueche (tarte flambée) is practically a rite of passage here.

Thin, crispy, creamy, and totally addictive — think Alsace’s take on pizza, and yes, it’s every bit as delicious as it sounds.

Whether you hop on a river boat tour, join a walking tour, or let your feet guide you, Strasbourg is a city that rewards wandering.

And don’t forget the local shops — perfect for picking up wine, treats, or that just-right souvenir.

Tune in to get a feel for Strasbourg, spark some travel inspiration, and maybe set the wheels in motion for your own Alsatian adventure.

In this episode:

1:03: Intro

2:40: Placing Strasbourg on the map

6:59: Fun small day trip stops

11:16: Wandering the Petite France

14:39: Strasbourg Cathedral

21:55: Flammekueche & Food

23:47: River Cruise & Walking Tour

25:14 Le Comptoir des Vignerons Alsaciens

27:31: Other Tips

31:21: Final Thoughts

32:53: Wrapping it up

Important links:

Strasbourg Cathedral

Le Gruber

Le Comptoir des Vignerons Alsaciens

Solo Traveler Tracey's List

Wander Your Way Resources

Wander Your Way

Wander Your Way Adventures

In this episode, I chat with Patricia Doe from The Wilderness Group about the beauty of soft adventure travel — those immersive, outdoor experiences that blend nature, culture, and connection in the most meaningful way.

Patricia shares her story (including what it was like growing up in a castle-turned-hotel!) and how The Wilderness Group designs soft adventure experiences across the British Isles — from the rugged Highlands of Scotland to the serene landscapes of Ireland, England, and Wales.

I also share that I'm collaborating with The Wilderness Group (and why) to create the upcoming 2026 Wander Your Way Adventures to Scotland.

And that I'll be working with them again on future small group tours launching in 2027.

Patricia and I dive into how soft adventure in Europe opens doors to local culture through gentle hikes, village walks, and authentic encounters that reveal the heart of a place.

We also highlight hidden gems, underrated destinations, and easy ways to get outdoors that make travel both enriching and approachable.

Hint: You don't have to be an über fit under 30!

If you’ve ever wanted to experience Europe beyond the main tourist trail and embrace the outdoors, this episode is packed with inspiration and ideas for your next journey.

Want to chat more about soft adventure travel?

Email lynne at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com

In this episode:

1:03: Intro and Introducing Patricia Doe

4:27: Patricia’s background

7:01: The Wilderness Group

10:54: Special place for Patricia

14:06: Patricia’s picks

19:05: Trip expectations

28:10: Cities vs Nature

35:30: More of Patricia's favorite places

39:13: Fitness level

49:00: Final thoughts

54:58: Soft adventures and Wander Your Way

1:02:47: Wrapping it up

Important links:

Wilderness Scotland

Wilderness Ireland

Wilderness England

Wander Your Way Adventures

Solo Traveler Tracey's List

Why Europe Is an Amazing Destination for Nature Lovers

Outdoors Europe with Jackie Nourse

Wander Your Way Resources

Wander Your Way