Alfie Watts reveals why travel should feel possible for everyone on Routes with Jenni Falconer

From winning the BBC series to travelling to almost 100 countries and using his platform to inspire others to explore the world, Alfie discusses his passion for making travel feel accessible, why he's determined to keep his content relatable and the extraordinary 3,500-mile tuk tuk challenge he completed to raise money for the mental health charity YoungMinds.

Speaking to Jenni, Alfie opens up about how his own experiences with mental health inspired him to take the tuk tuk challenge in aid of YoungMinds, raising more than £54,000 for the charity.

I really struggled with my mental health growing up. I wanted to make a difference, but I wanted it to be something around travel because that's my brand. I wanted it to be a meaningful journey.

The conversation also explores the ambitious challenge itself, including the surreal moment Dutch police shut part of a motorway so Alfie's tuk tuk could prove it was capable of reaching the legal speed limit.

He said, 'I challenge you to a race.' He shut the Dutch motorway and drove alongside me. It was just the most surreal moment.

Episode highlights include:

How Race Across the World changed everything: Alfie reflects on how winning the BBC series transformed his life, taking him from someone who'd travelled very little to visiting almost 100 countries in just six years.

The destination that left him speechless: Alfie shares why the Seychelles remains one of the most breathtaking places he's ever visited, from its dramatic landscapes to an unexpected invitation to compete in a 25km mountain race.

Why London will always be home: Despite spending more than half the year abroad, Alfie reveals why London is still his favourite place in the world and why he feels fiercely protective of the UK.

Inspiring the next generation: As he tours schools across the country, Alfie explains why he wants young people to see that a career in travel isn't out of reach, proving how much can change in just six years.

Why he keeps travel real: The content creator reveals why he rarely accepts business class flights or luxury experiences, saying he wants his adventures to feel achievable for the people watching at home.

Routes with Jenni Falconer sees the broadcaster travel across the LNER network with well-known guests, uncovering the journeys, destinations and memories that have shaped their lives.

The episode featuring Alfie Watts is available NOW on all major podcast platforms.

Listen to Routes with Jenni Falconer:https://podfollow.com/routes/view