Got questions about traveling in Europe?

I’ve got answers!

And this month’s Listener Q&A features two fantastic ones from Luana.

She’s heading to Europe for the first time this summer and wrote this:
"I am going to Europe for the first time this year in summer! Due to it being our first time a little over half of our trip is large/famous cities. So, understanding it will be very busy in these cities (Venice, Rome, Barcelona, Athens) are there any recommendations you have for making our experience smoother/more enjoyable in the crowds?"

So in this episode, I share some practical tips to help you navigate peak season with a bit more ease — from when to visit popular sites to how to find quieter corners and build in breaks so you can actually enjoy the experience.

Her second question takes us in the opposite direction:
“Do you have any off-the-beaten-path locations you would recommend in winter?”

I love this one.

We dive into why some destinations are actually better in the off-season, along with ideas for quieter regions, smaller towns, and even how to rethink those big-name cities when the crowds disappear.

If you’ve ever wondered how to handle Europe in the height of summer — or where to go when things slow down — this episode is full of thoughtful insights to help you travel Europe your way.

And if you’ve got a question you’d like me to answer in a future episode, head over to wanderyourway.com/podcast and submit it.

I just might feature it next.

Note: These Listener Q&A episodes don’t have a companion blog post, so you’ll only find this one in your favorite podcast app. Happy listening!

Important links:

Listener Question Form

Wander Your Way Adventures

Wander Your Way

Wander Your Way Resources

12 of My Favorite Amazing European Cities

Tips for Traveling Off the Main Tourist Track

5 Reasons Why Travel to Europe in Winter is a Sensational Idea

Long-distance trails have a way of capturing our imagination.

Whether it’s hiking across a national park, cycling through stunning countryside, or tackling a multi-day adventure somewhere in Europe, these kinds of journeys can feel both exciting and a little intimidating.

In this episode of the Wander Your Way podcast, I’m joined by Becki Rupp of Trailblazer Wellness.

Becki is an adventure coach and personal trainer who helps people prepare — physically and mentally — for long-distance hiking and cycling adventures.

She shares how she found her own path into adventure travel and coaching.

And why preparation can make all the difference when you’re taking on long-distance hikes or trails.

We talk about practical ways to train for long-distance hikes, including how to gradually build distance, why downhill training matters just as much as the climbs, and how getting comfortable in different weather conditions can help build resilience on the trail.

Becki also shares insight into the emotional side of these journeys.

How time spent on a trail can offer space for reflection, healing, and personal growth.

If you’ve ever dreamed about tackling long-distance hikes but aren’t sure where to begin, this conversation will give you plenty of helpful tips and encouragement.

From training advice to mindset shifts, Becki offers practical guidance to help make those big adventure dreams feel a lot more achievable.

We also chat about the different ways you can approach long-distance hiking — from going solo to joining a group or working with a tour operator who can help handle logistics along the way.

If the idea of spending days immersed in nature, moving through incredible landscapes, and challenging yourself in new ways appeals to you, this episode is for you.

Because the truth is… it’s never too late to start your own adventure.

Want to chat more about long distance hikes, walks or cycles?

Send me a note at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com

In this episode:

0:53: Intro

4:30: Introducing Becki

6:07: Becki’s story

11:40: Tips for physical training

16:58: Tips for mental training

25:42: Advice for hesitancy

29:02: Favorite trails

34:57: Becki’s services

41:45: Final tips & thoughts

49:15: Wrapping it up with Becki

50:56: Wrapping it up

Important links:

Trailblazer Wellness

Walking the West Highland Way • Scotland

Wander Your Way Adventures

Wander Your Way

Wander Your Way Resources

Patagonia