Podcast
Strictly Sardinia
Hosted by Claudia Tavani · EN
A weekly podcast about the best of Sardinia Italy, by a local. Discover how to plan the best trip to Sardinia with my local expert tips from me - Claudia Tavani. I was born and raised in Sardinia, and Cagliari is the city I call home. I already run the blog Strictly Sardinia. Learn about the unique culture of Sardinia, its people, the best Sardinian food, the best beaches in Sardinia (including the top secluded beaches), the best things to do in Sardinia, the best places to visit in Sardinia, the best Sardinia hidden gems. Discover Sardinia’s best natural landscapes with the best hikes in Sardinia, and see Sardinia from the water with the best boat trips to Maddalena Archipelago. Visit Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, through the eyes of a local.
50episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Podcast I Never Planned To Record
6d ago00:23:40Summary readyThis wasn't the episode I had planned to record.Whether you've been following Strictly Sardinia for years or you've only just discovered the blog or podcast, this episode is a little different. I share the story behind Strictly Sardinia, how I went from academia to becoming a full-time travel blogger and certified travel consultant, what goes on behind the scenes, and why I sometimes draw the line between answering a travel question and planning a personalised itinerary.I hope it helps you get to know me—and Strictly Sardinia—a little better.Plan your tripCar rental → https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=clautavaniHotels and accommodation → https://booking.stay22.com/myadventuresacrosstheworld/5dotcQ2Wm1Tours and activities → https://www.getyourguide.com/?partner_id=1LKJLHM&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=podcastNeed help planning your trip?Book a one-hour travel consultation → https://calendly.com/claudia-strictlysardinia/sardinia-travel-consultationJoin my Facebook group → https://www.facebook.com/groups/sardiniatraveltipsWork with meclaudia@strictlysardinia.comhttps://strictlysardinia.com/work-with-me-2/The intro and outro of this podcast are brought to you by the Sardinian band Sa Ratapignata. You can listen to the full song “Bi Tui” on Spotify.By Strictly Sardinia author Claudia Tavani.
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Cagliari vs Alghero vs Olbia
2w ago00:26:51Summary readyIf you're planning a trip to Sardinia, choosing where to stay is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Yet many visitors end up picking a base based on a beach photo rather than on the type of holiday they actually want.In this episode, I compare Sardinia's three main gateways and explain the pros and cons of each.You'll learn:Which destination is best for first-time visitorsWhether you really need a car in each locationWhich base offers the easiest access to beachesWhich city is best for food, culture, and local lifeWhy Olbia is often chosen for its surroundings rather than the city itselfWhy Alghero appeals to so many travelersWhy Cagliari remains my most recommended base for many first-time visitorsWhen it makes sense to split your trip between two locationsI also discuss some of the most common mistakes travelers make when choosing where to stay and explain how to decide which destination best matches your travel style.Useful links:Cagliari Guide: https://strictlysardinia.com/things-to-do-in-cagliari-sardinia/Alghero Guide: https://strictlysardinia.com/alghero-sardinia-guide/Olbia Guide: https://strictlysardinia.com/guide-to-olbia-sardinia/Plan your tripCar rental → https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=clautavaniHotels and accommodation → https://booking.stay22.com/myadventuresacrosstheworld/5dotcQ2Wm1Tours and activities → https://www.getyourguide.com/?partner_id=1LKJLHM&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=podcastNeed help planning your trip?Book a one-hour travel consultation → https://calendly.com/claudia-strictlysardinia/sardinia-travel-consultationJoin my Facebook group → https://www.facebook.com/groups/sardiniatraveltipsWork with meclaudia@strictlysardinia.comhttps://strictlysardinia.com/work-with-me-2/The intro and outro of this podcast are brought to you by the Sardinian band Sa Ratapignata. You can listen to the full song “Bi Tui” on Spotify.By Strictly Sardinia author Claudia Tavani.
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Stop Chasing Sardinia's "Best" Beaches
3w ago00:24:41Summary readyDrawing on a real conversation with visitors at Olbia Airport, she explains why choosing where to stay based on beach rankings is often a mistake, why social media has created a beach checklist mentality, and why so many travelers end up disappointed by crowds at Sardinia's most famous beaches.You'll also hear why locals don't think in terms of "the best beaches," why hidden gems are often not what people actually want, and why the best beach day of your holiday may happen at a beach you've never even heard of.In this episode:Why "the best beaches are in the north" is a mythWhy famous beaches attract crowdsThe hidden gem paradoxWhy social media is changing the way people travelWhy the closest beach is often the best beachWhy you shouldn't try to see all of Sardinia in one tripHow to choose the right base for your travel styleRead more on Strictly Sardinia: https://strictlysardinia.comPlan your tripCar rental → https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=clautavaniHotels and accommodation → https://booking.stay22.com/myadventuresacrosstheworld/5dotcQ2Wm1Tours and activities → https://www.getyourguide.com/?partner_id=1LKJLHM&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=podcastNeed help planning your trip?Book a one-hour travel consultation → https://calendly.com/claudia-strictlysardinia/sardinia-travel-consultationJoin my Facebook group → https://www.facebook.com/groups/sardiniatraveltipsWork with meclaudia@strictlysardinia.comhttps://strictlysardinia.com/work-with-me-2/The intro and outro of this podcast are brought to you by the Sardinian band Sa Ratapignata. You can listen to the full song “Bi Tui” on Spotify.By Strictly Sardinia author Claudia Tavani.
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Sardinia In August: What You Should Really Expect
4w ago00:16:17Summary readyAugust is the busiest month of the year on the island. The sea is warm, the beaches are spectacular, and there are festivals and events happening everywhere. But it's also the month of Ferragosto, crowded beaches, busy roads, and high prices.In this episode, I explain what Sardinia is really like in August, who should visit, who may be happier traveling in a different month, and the biggest mistakes visitors make every summer.Read the full blog post here: https://strictlysardinia.com/sardinia-in-august/Plan your tripCar rental → https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=clautavaniHotels and accommodation → https://booking.stay22.com/myadventuresacrosstheworld/5dotcQ2Wm1Tours and activities → https://www.getyourguide.com/?partner_id=1LKJLHM&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=podcastNeed help planning your trip?Book a one-hour travel consultation → https://calendly.com/claudia-strictlysardinia/sardinia-travel-consultationJoin my Facebook group → https://www.facebook.com/groups/sardiniatraveltipsWork with meclaudia@strictlysardinia.comhttps://strictlysardinia.com/work-with-me-2/The intro and outro of this podcast are brought to you by the Sardinian band Sa Ratapignata. You can listen to the full song “Bi Tui” on Spotify.By Strictly Sardinia author Claudia Tavani.
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Authentic Sardinia
May 2800:12:32Summary ready🎧 Episode Description — Authentic SardiniaWhat does “Authentic Sardinia” actually mean?In this episode, I talk about one of the most overused — and misunderstood — expressions in Sardinia travel.We hear about:authentic villagesauthentic foodauthentic experienceshidden gemsall the time.But Sardinia is not a museum or a theme park built around tourist expectations. It’s a living place — and in this episode, I explain what visitors often misunderstand when searching for the “real” Sardinia.I also talk about:overtourismsocial media expectationsinland Sardiniaagriturismithe Emerald Coastand why slower travel usually leads to a much more meaningful experience on the island.Read more Sardinia travel tips on my blog: https://strictlysardinia.com/In this episode:Why “Authentic Sardinia” is often romanticizedWhy Sardinia is not frozen in timeHow tourism changes placesThe problem with “hidden gems”Why inland Sardinia feels differentWhat tourists misunderstand about Sardinian foodWhy slower travel works better in SardiniaSocial media vs realityPlan your tripCar rental → https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=clautavaniHotels and accommodation → https://booking.stay22.com/myadventuresacrosstheworld/5dotcQ2Wm1Tours and activities → https://www.getyourguide.com/?partner_id=1LKJLHM&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=podcastNeed help planning your trip?Book a one-hour travel consultation → https://calendly.com/claudia-strictlysardinia/sardinia-travel-consultationJoin my Facebook group → https://www.facebook.com/groups/sardiniatraveltipsWork with meclaudia@strictlysardinia.comhttps://strictlysardinia.com/work-with-me-2/The intro and outro of this podcast are brought to you by the Sardinian band Sa Ratapignata. You can listen to the full song “Bi Tui” on Spotify.By Strictly Sardinia author Claudia Tavani.
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What Tourists Get Wrong About Sardinia
May 2100:11:05Summary readySardinia is one of the most misunderstood destinations in Europe.In this episode, I talk about the mistakes tourists make when planning a trip to Sardinia — from underestimating driving times and trying to see the whole island in one week, to unrealistic expectations about beaches, public transport, and “authentic” experiences.If you are planning a trip to Sardinia this summer, this episode will help you avoid common mistakes and enjoy the island much more.Read more Sardinia travel tips on my blog: https://strictlysardinia.com/In this episode:Why Sardinia is much bigger than people thinkThe biggest itinerary mistakes tourists makeWhy public transport is often not enoughWhat people misunderstand about the Emerald Coast“Authentic Sardinia” and unrealistic expectationsWhy famous beaches require more planning than expectedWhat August in Sardinia is really likeWhy Sardinia rewards slower travelPlan your tripCar rental → https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=clautavaniHotels and accommodation → https://booking.stay22.com/myadventuresacrosstheworld/5dotcQ2Wm1Tours and activities → https://www.getyourguide.com/?partner_id=1LKJLHM&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=podcastNeed help planning your trip?Book a one-hour travel consultation → https://calendly.com/claudia-strictlysardinia/sardinia-travel-consultationJoin my Facebook group → https://www.facebook.com/groups/sardiniatraveltipsWork with meclaudia@strictlysardinia.com https://strictlysardinia.com/work-with-me-2/The intro and outro of this podcast are brought to you by the Sardinian band Sa Ratapignata. You can listen to the full song “Bi Tui” on Spotify.By Strictly Sardinia author Claudia Tavani.
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Should You Fly Into Cagliari, Olbia or Alghero?
May 1400:07:08Summary readyShould you fly into Cagliari, Olbia, or Alghero?In this episode, I explain exactly how to choose the right airport in Sardinia — and the common mistake that can easily add hours of driving to your trip.Read the full guide (with distances, routes, and practical tips): https://strictlysardinia.com/airports-in-sardinia/In this episode:The 3 airports in Sardinia and what they serveWhich airport to choose based on where you’re stayingWhy choosing the cheapest flight is often a mistakeHow to avoid long drives across the islandWhen it makes sense to fly into one airport and out of anotherPlan your tripBest car rental comparison: Discover Cars → https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=clautavaniFind hotels in Sardinia on Booking.comBook tours and experiences online here.Need help planning your trip?Book a one-hour consultation: https://strictlysardinia.com/consultation/Join my Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sardiniatraveltipsWork with meFor partnerships and business inquiries: claudia@strictlysardinia.comhttps://strictlysardinia.com/work-with-me/The intro and outro of this podcast are brought to you by the Sardinian band Sa Ratapignata. You can listen to the full song “Bi Tui” on Spotify.By Strictly Sardinia author Claudia Tavani.
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Hiking in Sardinia — and how to be properly prepared
May 700:07:18Summary readyPlanning to hike in Sardinia? Read this — or listen first.In this episode, I explain what you actually need to know before going on a hike in Sardinia — from what to bring to the mistakes that can quickly turn a simple hike into a risky situation.Check the blog for more travel tips and guides: https://strictlysardinia.com/In this episode:What hiking in Sardinia is really likeWhy you must always bring water and foodThe mistake most travelers makeWhat to wear (and what not to wear)Why you need a backpackToilets on hiking trails (or lack of them)Safety tips most people overlookPlan your tripBest car rental comparison: Discover Cars → https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=clautavaniFind hotels in Sardinia on Booking.comBook tours and experiences online here.Need help planning your trip?Book a one-hour consultation: https://strictlysardinia.com/consultation/Join my Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sardiniatraveltipsWork with meFor partnerships and business inquiries: claudia@strictlysardinia.comhttps://strictlysardinia.com/work-with-me/The intro and outro of this podcast are brought to you by the Sardinian band Sa Ratapignata. You can listen to the full song “Bi Tui” on Spotify.By Strictly Sardinia author Claudia Tavani.
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Best Family Resorts In Sardinia
Apr 3000:07:20Summary readyTraveling to Sardinia with kids and not sure where to stay?In this episode, I walk you through the best family resorts in Sardinia — where to stay for an easy, stress-free trip, with great beaches, kids clubs, and the right setup for both children and parents.Read the full guide (with direct links to resorts, availability, and prices): https://strictlysardinia.com/sardinia-family-resorts/In this episode:The best areas in Sardinia for familiesTop family resorts in South SardiniaWhere to stay in Costa Rei and VillasimiusFamily-friendly resorts in North SardiniaA different option away from the coastHow to choose the right resort for your tripPlan your tripBest car rental comparison: Discover Cars → https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=clautavaniFind hotels in Sardinia on Booking.comBook tours and experiences online here.Need help planning your trip?Book a one-hour consultation: https://strictlysardinia.com/consultation/Join my Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sardiniatraveltipsWork with meFor partnerships and business inquiries: claudia@strictlysardinia.comhttps://strictlysardinia.com/work-with-me/The intro and outro of this podcast are brought to you by the Sardinian band Sa Ratapignata. You can listen to the full song “Bi Tui” on Spotify.By Strictly Sardinia author Claudia Tavani.
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Can You Visit Sardinia on a Budget?
Apr 2300:06:52Summary readyCan you really visit Sardinia on a budget?In this episode, I explain what actually works if you’re trying to keep costs under control — and what will quickly make your trip expensive.👉 Read the full guide (with budget accommodation, practical tips, and planning advice): https://strictlysardinia.com/sardinia-on-a-budget/In this episode:The best time to visit Sardinia on a budgetWhere to stay to save moneyHow to reduce accommodation costsTransport and car rental tipsHow to manage food and daily expensesWhat to avoid if you don’t want to overspendPlan your tripBest car rental comparison: Discover Cars → https://www.discovercars.com/?a_aid=clautavaniFind hotels in Sardinia on Booking.comBook tours and experiences online here.Need help planning your trip?Book a one-hour consultation: https://strictlysardinia.com/consultation/Join my Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sardiniatraveltipsWork with meFor partnerships and business inquiries: claudia@strictlysardinia.comhttps://strictlysardinia.com/work-with-me/The intro and outro of this podcast are brought to you by the Sardinian band Sa Ratapignata. You can listen to the full song “Bi Tui” on Spotify.By Strictly Sardinia author Claudia Tavani.
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