Traveling with AAA

Latest Episodes:

The Importance of Slow Travel with Brittany Anas Aug 01, 2024

Show notes

While we all love to discover different places when we travel, we often plan trips using the same formulaic method: We research, book, and then research and book some more.

On one hand, it makes sense. We want to see as much as we can in the short time we have to travel. But the downside to that is that we rush through these experiences, ticking those must-see boxes as we go. That can mean that we miss the real authenticity of a destination and its people in the rush to “see it all.”

If you’re looking for something that goes a little more in depth and personal, there’s a growing trend in travel you should know about: slow travel.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Brittany Anas, a freelance travel and lifestyle writer based in Denver. Not only does she embrace the slow travel concept in how she travels, she’s also interviewed slow travel experts and organizers of slow travel trips in order to understandwhat makes a slower travel pace a richer and deeper experience.

You’ll learn what slow travel is all about, and why it’s becoming so appealing to travelers. You’ll hear Brittany’s personal experiences of discovering a new way to be a visitor and why connecting with locals is such an important aspect of slow travel. You’ll also get tips on how to interact with locals and learn what kinds of tours are available that can help you discover a more authentic side of your favorite destinations.

What You’ll Learn:

What it means to travel slowly (2:01)
How to plan a trip and still leave space for the unknown (11:08)
The personal impact a slow travel experience can have (14:28)
Connecting with locals when you travel (17:12)
How tour companies are embracing the trend (18:53)

Connect with Brittany Anas:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittanyanas33

Articles:

Men’s Journal: Slow Travel Will Be 2024's Biggest Vacation Trend—and It Might Change Tourism Forever

Forbes: How To Negotiate More PTO—According To Top Career Experts

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa Comment start

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Top 5 Bucket List Experiences for Travelers with Disabilities with Alvaro Silberstein Jul 25, 2024

Show notes

Traveling with a disability used to feel limiting, but today, the world is opening up with accessibility in mind.

From cities to beaches, from mountain peaks to top international destinations, traveling with a disability is becoming much easier. What are the best accessible destinations to explore?

Today, Angie Orth is back with Alvaro Silberstein, founder of Wheel the World. The company has made it its mission to empower travelers with disabilities to explore the globe with all of the details needed to travel comfortably and confidently.

You’ll hear about the best bucket list destinations to explore where accessibility has been built into the travel experience. He shares helpful recommendations for getting comfortable with traveling, and how to navigate destinations that many thought were impossible. He also provides his personal favorite places to visit as well as a few up-and-coming hot spots.

What You’ll Learn:

A great destination for someone with a disability traveling for the first time (0:35)
How to prepare for the terrain of Patagonia (1:17)
A unique accessible destination for adventure travelers (1:57)
Top trending accessible travel destinations for 2024 (2:42)
His best overall vacation spot for travelers (3:15)

Guest Info:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alvasil/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvaro-silberstein-14511824/

Website: https://wheeltheworld.com

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa Comment start

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Exploring the World Through Accessible Travel with Alvaro Silberstein Jul 18, 2024

Show notes

What if traveling wasn’t as easy as clicking the “Book Now” button?

What if in addition to all of the fun details, you had to think about logistics?

For travelers with disabilities, details like the width of doorframes, the layout of the shower, and elevator access can make or break a trip.

But thanks to one creative and determined entrepreneur, getting this information is finally as easy as clicking a button.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Alvaro Silberstein, founder of Wheel the World, a company that empowers travelers with disabilities to explore the globe.

You’ll hear how Alvaro’s life changed suddenly at 18 years old and how his unwavering determination to keep exploring the world eventually blossomed into a business. He shares what it’s really like for travelers with disabilities to arrange accessible travel, and how we can all become better allies to the community. You’ll also hear how he’s making journeys that many thought were impossible, not only possible - but also comfortable and accessible for everyone.

What You’ll Learn:

What it’s like to plan a trip and to travel with accessibility in mind (4:41)
How to be a better ally to travelers with disabilities (7:33)
Where his concept for Wheel the World originated (10:27)
The support his company provides for people with disabilities (15:44)
How the travel industry is adapting to include everyone (17:35)

Guest Info:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alvasil/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvaro-silberstein-14511824/

Website: https://wheeltheworld.com

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa Comment start

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

All in a Day’s Meal in Prague, with Mark Baker Jul 11, 2024

Show notes

Traveling is about seeing unique architecture, exploring new cultures, and basking in the uniqueness of the world. Perhaps most importantly, it’s also about what you’ll eat and drink along the way.

Today, Angie Orth is back with Mark Baker, a freelance journalist, travel writer, author, and American expat who has lived in Prague for 30 years. As a destination expert for this bustling European city, he’s got the inside scoop on the best food in Prague and where to find it.

You’ll hear about the most iconic Czech dishes, where to find them, and how to spot the tourist-driven places to avoid. Mark shares his favorite local establishments for hearty, down-to-earth plates, high-level culinary experiences, and delectable pastries. You’ll also get an introduction to the local beer culture and learn about the emerging wine culture in the region.

What You’ll Learn:

Where to grab your first meal of the day (0:54)
An old-school cafe where you can find a traditional Czech lunch (2:16)
The place to splash out for a Michelin-level dining experience (3:10)
Exploring beer culture and wine country (3:55)
Where to satisfy your sweet tooth (7:09)

Guest Info:

Website: https://markbakerprague.com

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Why to Visit Prague with Mark Baker Jul 04, 2024

Show notes

You’ve seen Buckingham Palace and Big Ben in London. You’ve taken the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. You’ve marveled at the grandeur of the Colosseum in Rome. But there’s so much more yet to discover.

If you’re still hungry for the quintessential old European city but want to see someplace with a flavor all its own, then Prague needs to be on your travel wish list.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Mark Baker, a freelance journalist, travel writer, author, and American expat who has lived in Prague for 30 years. He’s a destination expert for National Geographic Expeditions and has written for Kinfolk, BBC World News, the Wall Street Journal, and Wanderlust.

You’ll hear about the fascinating history of Prague through its transformation from a world power to a bohemian hot spot, to the beautiful and bustling city that it is today. You’ll explore the stunning architecture, learn the secret of the famous spires, and hear about some of the lesser-known spots that are worth exploring.

What You’ll Learn:

A historical introduction to the city of Prague (2:27)
An audible, imaginative tour through the city (8:00)
What you’ll see at the famous historic marketplace (11:30)
Overlooked places that most tourists don’t experience (15:26)
How to get around during your visit (20:25)

Guest Info:

Website: https://markbakerprague.com

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

The Top 5 European Train Routes to Experience, with Tom Hal Jun 27, 2024

Show notes

The romance of train travel can’t be denied, and that’s what makes choosing to explore Europe by rail such an exciting option.

The only problem is figuring out which countries you want to visit and which routes to choose. For this, you need a European train expert to help you narrow it down.

Today, Angie Orth is back with Tom Hall. He is the expert extraordinaire on train travel in Europe. He’s a regular contributor to Lonely Planet, and his own website is chock-full of helpful information for planning your rail journey.

You’ll hear everything you need to know about which route to choose for your travel goals. Whether it’s a scenic, action-packed rail journey you’re looking for, the best routes for families, or a relaxed gastronomic experience with fine food and wine, this episode will guide you toward the right track.

What You’ll Learn:

The best route for packing in as much as possible in one journey (0:53)
Why train travel is a great choice for families with kids (2:53)
Where to travel if good food and wine are top priorities (4:17)
An underrated route for spectacular views (5:55)
Where to travel if you’re an artist seeking inspiration (7:06)

Guest Info:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tomhalltravel

X: https://www.twitter.com/tomhalltravel

Website: https://tomhalltravel.com

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/europe-top-train-routes-2024

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/europes-best-night-trains

https://shop.lonelyplanet.com/products/amazing-train-journeys

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

The Best Ways to Experience Europe by Rail, with Tom Hall Jun 20, 2024

Show notes

Interconnected networks throughout Europe make rail travel one of the best and most romantic ways to see the continent, whether it’s winding through the dramatic Swiss Alps, absorbing the natural solitude of the Scottish Highlands, or glimpsing the lively coastline along the Med. It’s also one of the easiest, most relaxed ways to get around.

While railcar interiors may have changed over the years and our handheld suitcases have now become wardrobes on wheels, train travel is still a primary means of transportation in many parts of the world.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Tom Hall. He’s a longtime contributor to Lonely Planet, and his expertise is in traveling Europe by rail. If you’ve always dreamed of taking a romantic train journey across Europe, then his advice is your golden ticket.

You’ll hear what makes train travel so different, and why it’s the best way to get across the continent. You’ll learn the ins and outs of multi-country rail passes, and know what to expect on trains in different countries and travel classes. You’ll also hear about some of the most incredible train journeys and gain a few tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

What You’ll Learn:

What makes train travel in Europe such a special experience (2:03)
Advice about rail passes and reservations (6:26)
The scenery that trains give you access to that car travel does not (17:07)
A comfortably paced 8-10 day itinerary (19:29)
How to keep calm and manage delays like a pro (22:04)

Guest Info:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tomhalltravel

X: https://www.twitter.com/tomhalltravel

Website: https://tomhalltravel.com

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/europe-top-train-routes-2024

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/europes-best-night-trains

https://shop.lonelyplanet.com/products/amazing-train-journeys

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Great Drives: The Scottish North Coast 500, with Dan Holland and Pennie Stuart Jun 13, 2024

Show notes

The American road trip is a quintessential pastime. But if you’re looking for something a bit more international, there are spectacular drives all around the world that are just waiting to be explored.

Although perhaps nothing else quite ticks all the boxes like the one we’re talking about today.

Lush green forests, hills, mountains, steep cliffs that dramatically overlook the sea, plus lively pub culture, great seafood, and traditional music … the North Coast 500 has it all!

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Dan Holland and Pennie Stuart, hosts of the NC500 podcast series. Their passion and expertise when it comes to “Scotland’s Route 66” will have you behind the wheel and headed for the Highlands in no time!

You’ll hear about the unmatched scenery you’ll experience along this iconic drive, and why it’s being compared to our very own Route 66. You’ll learn how to set yourself up for the journey, and how to see the best of nature, quaint picturesque villages, and cultural hot spots along the way. You’ll also learn a few road safety and seasonal tips so you can best prepare for your Scottish adventure.

What You’ll Learn:

Getting to know the North Coast 500 (1:57)
Why people refer to the NC 500 as Scotland’s Route 66 (6:54)
How long you need to enjoy the drive properly (14:24)
A weeklong itinerary to hit all the highlights (15:24)
How to choose the season that will suit you best (22:25)

Guest Info needed:

NC500 Website: https://www.northcoast500.com/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/northcoast500/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/northcoast500

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northcoast500/

Connect with AAA:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Places to Experience Korean Culture with Samantha Gross Jun 06, 2024

Show notes

It’s the birthplace of K-pop, famously rich Korean drama productions, and maybe the only place in the world where 7-11 (yes, the convenience store) needs to be on your dining agenda.

We’re back in Seoul, South Korea, to discover the fun and vibrant pop culture that this city has become famous for. From music to film to strangely fascinating cafés, this is a city that leaves an impression.

Today, Angie Orth is back with Samantha Gross, author of the travel blog There She Goes Again. Her experiences as a resident of and visitor to the bustling city of Seoul have given her insider knowledge about Korean pop culture.

You’ll learn all about the K-pop phenomenon, and Sam shares her favorite band to follow if you’re ready to explore the roots of this iconic music. You’ll hear about the surprising convenience store delicacies you’ll find, and the specific shops to seek out if you want to stock up on South Korea's famous beauty products. You’ll also learn why South Korea puts so much effort into building a strong entertainment industry—and the best way to entertain yourself while you’re there.

What You’ll Learn:

Understanding K-pop from the Korean perspective (0:49)
What you’ll discover at convenience stores in Seoul (3:02)
Where to stock up on K-beauty products (3:51)
Why the South Korean film industry is so good (5:33)
The most fun thing you’ll do in Seoul (7:11)

Resources:

K-Pop: SHINee 샤이니 'Ring Ding Dong': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=roughtzsCDI

Viki: https://www.viki.com/

Connect with Sam:

Website: https://thereshegoesagain.org/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/thereshegoesagn/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thereshegoesagn/

Connect with AAA:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

What to See in Seoul with Samantha Gross May 30, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever been to a place where the past, present, and future collide—and somehow magically it creates an aesthetic that works?

In societies with ancient roots, modern architecture can seem out of place. But there’s one city where you can see ancient temples and marvel at beautifully designed towers. You can be in the city but still sense nature all around you. And, you can pop into tiny local restaurants that have been serving the same delicious recipes for generations while also tickling your taste buds with modern street foods.

If you haven’t added the city of Seoul, South Korea, to your bucket list, then it’s about time you do!

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Samantha Gross, author of the travel blog There She Goes Again. Samantha’s longtime love for Seoul inspired her to study abroad there, and she’s been back countless times since.

You’ll hear about all the best places to explore in the city and which neighborhoods you’ll enjoy most based on what you’re looking for. She shares tips for identifying the best places to eat and tells you the top 3 foods to eat in Seoul. You’ll also learn about the creative café culture and how to get around to see everything this vibrant city has to offer!

What You’ll Learn: