If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping the city with the kids, slowing right down and reconnecting in nature but without giving up your creature comforts… this episode is for you.

On this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, Sally Stanton is joined by Renee Kidd from Into The Wild Escapes to explore the rise of eco luxe tiny homes in Australia and why they are becoming one of the most popular trends in family travel.

Sally and Renee dive into what makes these off-grid escapes so special. With no WiFi and limited phone reception, families are encouraged to properly switch off.

These eco-friendly tiny homes are all about sustainable travel without sacrificing comfort. Set in stunning natural locations, they offer cosy accommodation with a touch of luxury. Comfy big beds, hot showers, thoughtful design and beautiful surroundings, proving that eco travel does not mean roughing it.

Renee shares the story behind Into The Wild Escapes and why more families are choosing screen-free, nature-based holidays to reconnect and reset. The episode is packed with practical insights for parents looking for unique, meaningful travel experiences with kids.

At the end of the episode, Sally shares her own mini review after staying in one of the tiny homes with her family. From first impressions to what surprised her most, it is an honest look at what families can expect.

Plus, there is a bonus episode coming, where Sally goes deeper into her personal experience and shares extra tips for planning your own eco luxe tiny home getaway.

If you are searching for family travel ideas, eco travel inspiration, outdoor holidays with kids or unique places to stay in Australia, this episode delivers plenty of inspiration.

In this episode:

• Eco travel and green tourism for families
• Why tiny homes are trending in family travel
• The benefits of no WiFi and screen-free holidays
• How the outdoors becomes the entertainment for kids
• What eco luxe accommodation really looks like
• Sally’s personal tiny home review
• Tips before booking an off-grid stay

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Green Tourism

01:50 Exploring Luxury Eco Tiny Houses

03:33 Family-Friendly Features of Tiny Homes

08:09 The Off-Grid Experience

12:03 Connecting with Nature and Family

17:12 Stargazing and Nature's Beauty

20:12 Packing for Your Tiny Home Adventure

23:04 Preparing Kids for Screen-Free Fun

25:02 The Story Behind Tiny Home Names

26:14 International Appeal of Tiny Homes

27:45 Exploring Australian Wildlife Up Close

29:15 A Day in a Tiny House: Slow Travel Experience

33:44 Connecting with Nature: Exploring Local Communities

37:52 Unique Features of Tiny Homes

39:00 Kids Corner: Addressing Concerns About Tiny Homes

42:11 The Importance of Eco-Tourism

44:15 Why Every Family Should Experience Tiny House Living

Resources

Into The Wild Escapes

@in2thewildaus

Dried Flower Creations

@driedflowercreations

Wollombi General Store / Art collective

Trading Post Laguna

Where Pigs Fly Sanctuary

@wherepigsflysanctuary

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

• @snacksandsuitcasespodcast
• @sallynanamis
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

And if this episode made you smile, share it with another parent who’s dreaming of switching off and going green (with a little luxury) for their next family holiday.

AND... Don't forget the S’mores! And Mulled Wine!

This bonus episode of Snacks and Suitcases dives into a powerful part of my chat with Emma Watkins that deserved its own moment.

We explore how Emma weaves sign language into her Emma Memma shows, and how deaf and hard of hearing children experience music through movement, rhythm and visual storytelling.

From her early exposure to Auslan, to performing globally with different sign languages, and working alongside her profoundly deaf co-performer Elvin — this is a fascinating, feel-good listen.

If you’re curious about inclusive performance, or want to understand how music can connect in different ways, this one’s for you.

🎧 Catch the full episode with Emma for travel, touring life and behind-the-scenes stories.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Emma Watkins and Sign Language Integration 01:20 Early Exposure to Sign Language 02:38 Cultural Differences in Sign Language 04:54 The Role of Interpreters in Performances 06:59 Connection with Deaf Audiences 09:04 Unique Approach to Children's Performance 11:04 Experiencing Music Beyond Hearing 14:03 Conclusion and Future Endeavors

Resources

Emma Memma

Emma Memma Jungle Picnic Tour

Ability Fest

Deaf West Theatre

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

• Instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/
• Instagram.com/sallynanamis/
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

And if this episode made you smile, share it with another parent who’s travelling with kids (or whose kids are obsessed with Emma Memma!).

AND... Don't forget your snacks!

Today’s guest is someone your kids will absolutely know… and chances are, you do too.

Dr Emma Watkins, also known as Emma Memma (and of course, the first female Yellow Wiggle) joins Sally Stanton for a fun, insightful and surprisingly moving chat about life on the road as a performer, her favourite childhood holidays, and what really connects with children all over the world.

From performing in over 40 cities with over 150 shows, to travelling with a small team, Emma shares what it actually takes to bring a children’s production to life on tour and how she (and her sister Hayley) keep things running smoothly along the way.

We talk packing hacks, colour-coded suitcases, life on tour buses, and the reality of travelling internationally with a full production. Plus, Emma opens up about her time on The Amazing Race, her tour life in the Wiggles, and how her journey from ballet dancer to children’s entertainer (and now Doctor!) shaped everything she does today.

But what makes Emma Memma truly special is what’s happening beneath the surface.

Her shows beautifully integrate music, movement and sign language, creating a space where all children, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing, can connect, learn and feel included. It’s thoughtful, intentional and incredibly powerful.

You’ll also hear how much she LOVES chocolate!

Plus, an extra fun Kids’ Corner featuring questions from mini travellers and a few very sweet moments along the way.

🎧 Don’t miss Thursday’s bonus episode, where Emma dives deeper into sign language, working with deaf performers, and how her shows create meaningful connections for children all over the world

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Emma Watkins

04:21 Life on Tour with Emma Memma

08:00 Experiences on The Amazing Race

12:21 Cultural Experiences in India

15:40 Life on a Tour Bus

19:01 Connecting with Local Communities

20:39 Life in the Southern Highlands

22:41 The Joy of Touring

24:10 Managing a Touring Team

25:33 The Essence of Emma Memma

27:50 The Roots of Sign Language Passion

29:30 Universal Language in Performance

31:35 Engaging Children Through Performance

34:09 The Evolution of Emma Memma

36:18 What Lights Up Children?

38:32 Supporting Parents and Educators

39:10 Collaborations with Iconic Brands

42:12 Kids Corner: Childhood Memories

47:36 Future Adventures and Travel Dreams

49:18 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Facts

Resources

Emma Memma

Emma Memma Jungle Picnic Tour

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

• https://www.instagram.com/sallynanamis/
• https://www.instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

If you're enjoying the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

And if this episode made you smile, share it with another parent who’s travelling with kids (or whose kids are obsessed with Emma Memma!).

AND... Don't forget your snacks!

This week’s episode is a quick one… but there’s a lot coming.

Host Sally Stanton is heading off grid and into the wild, all in the name of “research”. Which sounds dreamy… until you realise there’s no phone, no reception… and no WiFi 😳

But here’s the exciting part…

Sally will be reporting back with a full episode sharing exactly where she went, what it was like and how her city loving fam survived nature's wonderland.

BUT next Tuesday there is a very special guest coming on Snacks and Suitcases.

Let’s just say, she’s one of the biggest children’s entertainers in the world. You probably know her by her first name.

So don’t go anywhere.

Make sure you’re following the podcast so you don’t miss what’s coming next and if you’ve got a road trip or holiday coming up, now’s the perfect time to catch up on past episodes.

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

• Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/
• com/sallynanamis/
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe, review and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of travelling the world!

AND... Don't forget your snacks!

We head to the stunning mountain town of Livigno in Italy, a true hidden gem in the European Alps and one of the host locations for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Sally is joined by Aussie ski industry powerhouse and mum of two, Caroline Brauer, who shares why this incredible destination completely won her over. And why she, along with her husband, former Olympic skier Jono Brauer, base their Arc Skier Development Program there.

They chat about what makes Livigno so special for families and young developing skiers. Think “hero” snow, wide open slopes, runs that literally take you to Switzerland! Short lift lines and that relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes travelling with kids so much easier.

Caroline also explains how the Arc Skier Development program gives Aussie kids the chance to build their skills in a world class alpine environment, while parents enjoy a European ski holiday filled with amazing food, scenery and a little bit of indulgence.

From duty free shopping to delicious Italian and Swiss inspired cuisine, Livigno offers so much more than just skiing. It is one of those places that surprises you in the best possible way.

If you have some budding ski superstars or are just dreaming of a family snow trip that feels a little different, this one is definitely worth adding to your list.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Livigno: A Hidden Gem for Families

02:14 Olympic Spirit: Caroline's Experience at the Winter Olympics

05:29 The Arc Skier Development Program: Nurturing Young Talent

13:04 Family-Friendly Lavinio: A Perfect Destination

18:36 The Unique Offerings of the Arc Program

27:33 Off-Slope Activities: Fun Beyond Skiing

31:54 The Essence of Bombardino

32:44 Navigating Livigno: Language and Accommodation

36:07 Culinary Delights: The Restaurant Scene in Livigno

40:46 Off-Snow Activities: Ice Rally Driving and More

43:10 Shopping in a Duty-Free Paradise

45:12 Affordable Skiing: Lift Prices and Packages

46:31 A Perfect Day in Livigno with Kids

49:59 Packing Essentials for a Ski Trip

51:56 Exploring the ARC Ski Development Program

52:35 Kids Corner: Questions from Mini Travelers

54:23 Fast Five: Quickfire Questions with Caroline

Resources

• The ARC Ski - Official Website
• https://www.instagram.com/thearcski/
• Zinermann Sports Ski Rental
• https://www.myholidaylivigno.com/en
• https://www.livigno.eu/en/

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

• Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/
• Instagram.com/sallynanamis
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of an alpine adventure

AND... Don't forget your snacks!

Bite Sized Bonus Episode

Kurashiki with Kids: Japan Off the Beaten Track

Join Sally and Jo Macgregor from the Tokyo Chapter for this bonus Bite Sized episode, as they explore the charming Japanese town of Kurashiki. Covering its history, attractions, and travel tips for families. Discover why Kurashiki is a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for a cultural and scenic experience with kids.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Kurashiki: A Hidden Gem in Japan

01:37 Personal Connection to Kurashiki

04:11 Cultural Highlights and Unique Experiences

07:34 Travel Tips and Accessibility

09:32 Conclusion and Future Adventures

Contact

Follow Jo on Instagram: instagram.com/thetokyochapter

Visit thetokyochapter.com

Resources

Kurashiki Tourism Official Site - https://www.kurashiki-tabi.jp/en/

Ohara Museum of Art - https://www.ohara.or.jp/en/

Japanese Denim - https://en.japantravel.com/okayama/denim-in-kurashiki/12345

Connect

Instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/com/sallynanamis/

Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who is dreaming of Japan

AND... Don't forget your snacks!

Planning a trip to Japan with kids? Discover how to explore Hiroshima and Miyajima in a meaningful, family-friendly way. From peace memorials to floating torii gates, here’s everything you need to know before you go.

In this episode, I’m joined by my friend Jo from The Tokyo Chapter to explore, two family friendly cities beyond the bright lights of Tokyo... Hiroshima and Miyajima.

We cover how to visit Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial with kids in a gentle, age-appropriate way, plus everything you need to know about Miyajima, from the famous floating torii gates to deer encounters and the best time to visit.

You’ll also get practical tips on transport, where to stay, what to eat (hello okonomiyaki), and how to make it all feel easy with kids in tow.

Plus, what’s trending in Japan travel right now and a fun Kids’ Corner segment.

Contact Jo

• Instagram: The Tokyo Chapter
• Blog: thetokyochapter.com

Resources

• Mama Papa Map app – Find toilets and family amenities in Japan
• Tablelog – Restaurant and seating info in Japan
• Okonomiyaki Restaurants – Hiroshima-style cooking spots
• Miyajima Ferry Timetable – Check tide times and ferry schedule
• Miyajima Seaside Hotel - Family Friendly Ryokan in Miyajima
• Kodomonokuni
• Grinpa

Connect

Instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/com/sallynanamis/

Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who is dreaming of Japan

AND... Don't forget your snacks!

Snacks and Suitcases season 3 is here!

We’re kicking things off with a road trip around New Zealand’s North Island.

Sally is joined by Renata Wiles, a New Zealand mum and creator of Roam with Kids. An app designed to help you find the best kid (and parent) friendly playgrounds, cafes, restaurants and activities (many FREE) around New Zealand and quite possibly soon…. the world.

Renata is an adventure and wildlife lover who has travelled extensively with her young family and has all the tips for a fun family holiday. She critiques Sally’s recent North Island adventure. From Auckland to Wellington.... ticking off Hobbiton, Rotorua, Taupo, Hawke’s Bay and the windy city! Plus Renata shares her must visit sights and road trips around NZ with kids.

Contact

Follow Renata on Instagram: instagram.com/renataroaming/

Follow Renata on TikTok: tiktok.com/@renataroaming/

Get the Roam with Kids app

https://roamwithkids.app

Resources

Safe Swim NZ - Check water quality and safety warnings

Hobbiton Tours - Book ahead to secure your spot

Hear more of Renata's adventure's here

Connect

Instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/com/sallynanamis/

Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who is dreaming of New Zealand

AND... Don't forget your snacks!