Episode 26: Christmas in Hakuba with Blaise and Kiara Barnes

This Weeks Chat:

Join me for the season finale as I chat with Blaise Barnes and Kiara Barnes, about their unforgettable Christmas holiday in Hakuba, Japan. From carving through powder snow to discovering the best après-ski spots, they share their insider tips for experiencing one of Japan's premier winter destinations. Whether you're a seasoned snowboarder or planning your first trip to the Japanese Alps, this episode is packed with practical advice and festive holiday inspiration.

What We Cover:

• Why Hakuba is the perfect destination for a winter Christmas getaway
• Snowboarding in the Japanese Alps and what makes Hakuba's powder so special
• Equipment rental tips and why Rhythm is the go-to shop
• Dining recommendations: The authentic izakaya experience at Izakaya Hie
• Après-ski culture: Drinks and atmosphere at The Aperie Bar
• Christmas in Japan: What it's like to celebrate the holidays in a Japanese ski town

Key Highlights

Snowboarding in Hakuba Blaise and Kiara share their experiences hitting the slopes in one of Japan's most famous ski regions, known for its incredible powder snow and diverse terrain.

Equipment Rental at Rhythm They both recommend Rhythm for hassle-free equipment rental, discussing what makes this shop stand out for snowboarders and skiers.

Dining: Izakaya Hie Get the inside scoop on this local izakaya that captured their hearts with authentic Japanese cuisine and atmosphere.

Après-Ski: The Aperie Bar Learn about the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the slopes, with insights into Hakuba's vibrant après-ski scene.

Helpful Travel Resources

Planning your own trip to Hakuba? Check out these comprehensive guides:

📍 The Best Restaurants to Try in Hakuba Discover more dining options beyond what Blaise and Kiara mentioned, from Wagyu specialists to the best ramen spots.

🏨 The Best Places to Stay in Hakuba A complete guide to accommodation options across Hakuba's different areas, including detailed information about Hotel Rosenheim.

❄️ Things to Know About Hakuba: A Winter Wonderland Essential travel information including how to get there from Tokyo, lift tickets, ski lessons, and activities beyond skiing.

About This Episode

This is the season finale of the Truly Expat Travel Podcast! We're wrapping up with a special family episode that brings together everything we love about travel: adventure, discovery, and sharing experiences with the people we love most.

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If you enjoyed this episode about Hakuba, please leave us a review and share it with fellow snow lovers and Japan enthusiasts!

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Episode 25: Unwrapping Christmas in London with Karla

This Week's Chat

Join me as I chat with Karla Barreca about experiencing Christmas in London, and discover why this magical city transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. Whether you're dreaming of a proper British Christmas or planning your festive getaway, this episode will fill you with holiday cheer and wanderlust.

What We Discuss

• Karla's Expat Story: Why she now calls London home.
  Her first Christmas living in London: The story behind her first Christmas and why she loves it so much.

The Highlights:

• Must-visit spots and hidden gems
• Local cuisine and Christmas markets
• What makes it so special during Christmas
• Seasonal Tips

Practical Bits: Getting there, where to stay, and how to celebrate Christmas

Key Takeaways

• The Christmas lights in the city
• What to eat and drink during the holiday season
• That London has Christmas Markets too!

Mentioned in This Episode

• Christmas Markets: Christmas markets tour
• Christmas Lights: Christmas Lights Double-decker bus tour.
• West End Christmas Shows: Elf the musical
• Winter Wonderland: Tickets sold online here

Other Things to do during the Christmas Season

1. Santa's Grotto at the Queen's House
2. The Snowman
3. North Pole Express Tour with Santa
4. The Great Christmas Feast

Next Week

Join me as we chat about our favourite family destination for Christmas, where we will be discussing Hakuba! A true white Christmas that we love so much, we will be heading there again this year!

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at p

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Episode 24 : A Belgian Christmas Dream: Debra's Winter Wonderland in Bruges

This Week's Chat

Join me as I sit down with Debra de Reeper, an Australian expat living in Singapore, who shares her absolute favourite Christmas destination: Bruges. We dive deep into what makes this enchanting Belgian city so magical during the festive season and why it's become her go-to winter escape.

What We Discuss

• Debra's Expat Story: From Australia to Singapore and her passion for travel
  Discovering Bruges: The story behind her first Christmas visit and what drew her back.

The Highlights:

• Must-visit spots and hidden gems
• Local cuisine and Christmas markets
• What makes it so special during Christmas
• Seasonal Tips

Practical Bits: Getting there, where to stay, and accomodation considerations

Practical Bits: Getting there, public transport and Christmas day considerations

Key Takeaways

• The one thing you absolutely mustn't miss
• How this is different from an Australian Christmas
• Common mistakes travellers make and how to avoid them

Mentioned in This Episode

• Christmas Markets: The Markt in Bruges is the city's historic Market Square
• Fairytale atmosphere: The entire city is decorated with lights and trees, creating a romantic, winter wonderland feel.
• Food and drink: Enjoy classic market treats like waffles, hot chocolate, and mulled wine (glühwein).

Next Week

I'll be chatting with Karla Barreca about their love affair with London - you won't want to miss their stories about Christmas in London.

Are you an expat with a favourite holiday destination you're passionate about? Drop me a line at podcast@trulyexpat.com - I'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe & Review: If you're enjoying these chats, please leave a review on your podcast platform that you are listening to - it really helps others discover the show.

Send us a text

If you'd like to support the podcast, just click the link in the show notes and any contribution you can make helps me keep creating episodes for you.

Support the show

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

TikTok: Truly Expat