Get ready to pop the cork because we’re diving into the world of wine and travel! We’re chatting with James Hammond, who’s got some juicy tales from his time working in the vineyards of Margaret River, Australia. He’s spilling the beans on grape picking, tractor driving, and even the art of stomping grapes—yes, the old-school way! Whether you’re a wine lover or just curious about the vineyard life, James has tips and tricks for snagging a job in the wine biz and enjoying the stunning scenery. So grab your glass, kick back, and let’s toast to adventure and a little grape gossip!
Traveling is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re gonna get, unless you’re James Hammond, who’s all about the sweet nectar of the gods—wine! This episode dives deep into James's vineyard adventures in the beautiful Margaret River region of Australia. From grape picking to grape stomping (yes, you heard that right—think of it as a very fancy foot massage for grapes), James shares his hands-on experiences in the vineyards. Trust me, you’re gonna want to grab a glass of wine while listening to this because he spills the tea on the best parts of vineyard life, like getting free bottles of wine at the end of a long week. Who wouldn’t want that?
But it’s not all fun and games—James breaks down the nitty-gritty of vineyard work, the challenges of grape picking during sizzling hot days, and the difference between hourly jobs versus those tricky pay-by-bucket gigs. Let’s face it, this isn’t your average 9 to 5, but if you’re quick on your feet and have a love for the grape, there’s a whole world waiting for you in Margaret River. So pop in those headphones, and let’s stomp our way through some of the best travel tips while we sip on that imaginary wine!
Takeaways:
• Traveling can be a blast, especially when you pack your bags and explore!
• Working in vineyards can come with perks like free wine every week, which is a nice bonus!
• Grape stomping is not just a fun event; it's a classic winemaking tradition that many people enjoy!
• If you're heading to Margaret River, having a car is a total game changer for vineyard jobs!
• Picking grapes is no walk in the park; it's an early morning hustle to beat the heat!
• Getting a job at the cellar door can be a fantastic way to earn while learning about wines!
Companies mentioned in this episode:
• Margaret River (https://www.margaretriver.com/things-to-do/eat-drink/wineries/)
• Vine Power (https://vinepower.co.nz/)
• Winging It Travel Podcast
• Voy Escape Network
• Skyscanner
