Traveling with AAA

Latest Episodes:

Bob Marley's Jamaica: 5 Unmissable Experiences in Kingston with Kris Griffiths Mar 14, 2024

Show notes

So you’ve made up your mind: Jamaica is your next beach vacation. In our previous episode with Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, we traveled to the best beaches and whet your appetite for Jamaican jerk, beef patties, and of course, rum punch.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes journalist and photographer Kris Griffiths to talk about another very important part of Jamaican culture, reggae music. Specifically, the influence of the legendary Bob Marley. As a fan of Marley and his cultural legacy, Griffiths is here to share everything you need to know about visiting Jamaica, especially for all the Bob Marley fans out there.

You’ll hear about the important role of Bob Marley in Jamaican and world culture as a musician and advocate for peace. Griffiths shares the must-see spots in Trenchtown for fans, including the Trenchtown Culture Yard, Bob Marley Museum, and Tuff Gong Studios. You’ll hear about the best time for music lovers to visit and the unique contents of the cultural icon’s favorite beverage.

What You’ll Learn:

The lasting impact of Bob Marley on Jamaican culture (1:30)
Exploring the neighborhood where he grew up (2:23)
Visiting his home and what you’ll see there (4:18)
The best time to visit Jamaica for live reggae music (6:57)
Sipping Marley’s favorite drink (7:46)

Connect with Kris Griffiths:

Website: http://www.krisgriffiths.co.uk/

Rough Guides article: https://www.roughguides.com/articles/kingston-jamaica-in-the-footsteps-of-bob-marley/

X: http://twitter.com/krisgriffiths

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/greendoor8/videos

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/krisgriffiths

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

The Best of Jamaica with Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon Mar 07, 2024

Show notes

Craving a beach vacation that’s not too far from home? There are many places where you can dig your toes into the sand and experience a breathtaking sunset. But if you also want to move to the beats of reggae and sip a fruity rum punch, then the beautiful island of Jamaica is calling your name.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, a.k.a. JetSetSarah. She’s a writer, editor, on-screen host, and self-described “Carivangelist” who shares the culture, lifestyle, and personalities of the Caribbean. She’s here to tell you everything you need to know about planning a trip to her favorite island, Jamaica.

You’ll hear about the most popular parts of the island to visit, including the best beaches and most scenic hikes. You’ll learn about Jamaica’s unique culinary history and some of the best dishes to savor. You’ll also hear important safety tips to keep in mind so you can relax to the fullest on your Jamaican vacation.

What You’ll Learn:

Understanding the main tourist areas of Jamaica (3:45)
How to experience the majestic Dunn’s River Falls (6:58)
Her favorite spot that most tourists miss (9:02)
Tasting the island’s favorite foods (12:48, 16:56)
Sarah’s unmissable fast-food recommendation (18:37)

Connect with Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon:

Website: JetSetSarah.com

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

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

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

5 Astronomical Events & Where to See Them, with Valerie Stimac Feb 29, 2024

Show notes

Astrotourism is trending, and for good reason. The skies above us are magical places where things are happening all the time. Every once in a while, major events take place that are definitely worth putting on the calendar, even traveling for.

But you can’t go if you’re not in the know.

Today, Angie Orth is back with travel and space tourism writer Valerie Stimac. In our previous episode, we talked about astrotourism and some of the most spectacular shows in the sky, from comets to meteors to the famous Aurora Borealis. This week, we’re revealing our list of the top 5 most talked-about upcoming astronomical events.

You’ll hear why NOW is the ideal time to start planning your aurora or australis borealis trip. You’ll hear about two major meteor showers happening in the Northern Hemisphere, and why you should check the moon cycle before planning any stargazing excursion. Finally, you’ll hear about the biggest event happening in the skies this year, and important safety tips to keep in mind before the big day.

What You’ll Learn:

Why the northern and southern lights are so strong this year (1:07)
A spectacular spring meteor shower you don’t want to miss (1:34)
The biggest meteor shower to catch this summer (3:11)
One major comet to look out for this fall season (6:03)
A unique, unmissable event happening in April (6:48)

Episodes Referenced:

Alaska: Exploring the Great Land

New Zealand’s South Island with Kyle Mulinder

5 Things to Know About New Zealand’s South Island with Kyle Mulinder

Connect with Valerie Stimac:

Website: https://valeriestimac.com/

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

Book: https://shop.lonelyplanet.com/products/dark-skies

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

Best Astrotourism Destinations with Valerie Stimac Feb 22, 2024

Show notes

Everyone looks forward to a vacation. But did you ever think about looking up?

Countless spectacular events take place in the skies above us. From magnificent meteor showers to the amazing auroras that blanket the North and South Poles, these natural phenomena are unforgettable experiences. So, why not build a travel itinerary that includes seeing something out of this world?

Today, Angie Orth welcomes travel and space tourism writer Valerie Stimac. Having spent her formative years in Alaska admiring the northern lights each winter, she naturally became interested in all kinds of celestial events. She’s the author of Dark Skies: A Practical Guide to Astrotourism, and most recently, Stargazing Around the World.

You’ll hear why astrotourism is such a magical and experiential way to travel. You’ll discover the best places to see the stars, and hear about the growing number of Dark Sky Parks that have been dedicated for this very purpose. You’ll also hear about the best places to see the northern lights and other impressive wonders of the night sky.

What You’ll Learn:

Why astrotourism is the ultimate experiential vacation (4:45)
How to become an astrotourist (7:51)
Planning around the most popular events in the sky (10:23)
The best places to see the northern lights (12:30)
Exploring Dark Sky Parks (15:59)

Episodes Referenced:

Alaska: Exploring the Great Land

New Zealand’s South Island with Kyle Mulinder

5 Things to Know About New Zealand’s South Island with Kyle Mulinder

Connect with Valerie Stimac:

Website: https://valeriestimac.com/

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

Book: https://shop.lonelyplanet.com/products/dark-skies

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

Must-visit Places in Barcelona with Matt Ford Feb 15, 2024

Show notes

Guidebooks are great for when you’re a first-time visitor to a city. But what about when you want to dig a little deeper? How do you find those hidden gems that give you a real feel for how locals experience their home turf?

The answer is obvious, but not always so easy to do. You talk to a local. Luckily for you, we’ve got just the one you want to talk to if you want to experience the more authentic side of this famous city.

Today, Angie Orth is back with Barcelona-based journalist and filmmaker Matt Ford. In our last episode, Matt shared stories about the history, culture, and world-famous architecture in Catalonia’s capital city. In this episode, we’re peeking behind the tourist curtain to uncover the real Barcelona, from local neighborhoods to the best food for every budget.

You’ll hear about

What You’ll Learn:

What to know about the local languages (1:00)
Local neighborhoods where you can really experience the culture (2:14)
Demystifying the meal schedule (3:09)
What to drink and where to hang out late-night (4:26)
A great neighborhood bar to spark up a conversation with locals (5:05)

Connect with Matt Ford:

Website: https://mattford.media/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MattFordMedia

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattfordmedia/

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

A Local's Guide to Barcelona with Matt Ford Feb 08, 2024

Show notes

Is it the Michelin-starred restaurants, the wild and whimsical architecture, or the easy-going energy of the people that keeps people coming back? Of course, we’re talking about the coastal Catalonian city of Barcelona. And the answer is all of the above.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Matt Ford. He’s a Barcelona-based journalist and filmmaker who has spent over 20 years telling stories. He’s been everywhere from the star-studded film sets of Hollywood to the furthest reaches of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Today, he shares his insider knowledge about life in bustling Barcelona.

You’ll hear about the long and complex history of Barcelona and how its thoughtful design and outrageously ornate architecture helped turn it into one of the most visited cities in Europe. You’ll learn when to visit if you want a more locally-infused experience, and where to eat if you want to splash out on a meal to remember.

What You’ll Learn:

Why the layout of Barcelona plays such a historically important role (2:18)
Where to experience the glory of Gaudi (5:07)
The best time to visit and avoid the crowds (11:52)
The culinary history and Michelin-level experiences (15:13)
Market experiences and what to drink (20:25)

Connect with Matt Ford:

Website: https://mattford.media/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MattFordMedia

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattfordmedia/

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

5 Tips to See Northern Ireland like a Local with Keryn Means Jan 25, 2024

Show notes

The landscape is magical, the people are open and welcoming, and there’s always something dark and delicious on tap.

In this episode, we’re going back to Northern Ireland to help you experience this fantastic UK destination like a local.

Today, Angie Orth is back with Keryn Means, a freelance writer and founder of WalkingOnTravels.com. She’s got some great tips for experiencing Northern Ireland like a local, and helpful hints for learning about the history and culture if you’re visiting with kids.

You’ll hear the truth about what it’s like to drive on “the other” side of the road and what makes it terrifying or exciting, depending on your perspective. You’ll discover the best conversation starter to chat up locals when it’s time to hit the pub, and what to order when you belly up to the bar. You’ll also hear some of the best ways to learn about the history of Northern Ireland from locals themselves.

What You’ll Learn:

What it’s like driving in Northern Ireland (0:48)
How to experience pub culture like a local (2:33)
Understanding and experiencing the history of Northern Ireland (3:30)
The best way to experience Belfast with kids (4:16)
How to drink like a local in Northern Ireland (5:08)

Connect with Keryn Means:

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

Youtube:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerynmeans/

Facebook:

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

Top Northern Ireland Sights & Activities with Keryn Means Jan 18, 2024

Show notes

Are you ready to explore a truly unique, majestic, and storied part of the UK?

It’s a place where you can meander endlessly along green-shaded hills, stand among dramatic cliffs and watch waves crash far beneath your feet, and cozy up to your new local friends in a pub with a creamy pint of stout.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Keryn Means. She’s a freelance writer and founder of WalkingOnTravels.com. Her work and wanders around the world inspire millennial and Gen X travelers, especially moms who don’t want to let go of their travel dreams.

You’ll hear about the breathtaking scenery, the friendly locals, and the countless natural wonders you’ll encounter. You’ll learn what this unique, often overlooked, destination offers nature lovers, history buffs, whiskey connoisseurs, and fans of some of more than a few popular films and TV shows.

What You’ll Learn:

Getting to Northern Ireland and the best route to see it all (2:24)
An unmissable natural wonder and how to avoid the crowds (6:52)
The highlights of Belfast and why it’s such a great city destination (10:00)
Distillery-hopping in Northern Ireland (11:23)
Hot spots for Game of Thrones Fans (13:11)

Connect with Keryn Means:

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerynmeans/

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

5 Things to Know About New Zealand’s South Island with Kyle Mulinder Jan 11, 2024

Show notes

Your bags are packed for New Zealand's South Island, and you couldn’t be more excited! Nature, wine tours, exotic wildlife…how are you even going to fit it all in?

But before you go, you want to know more about the culture.

Well, you’ve come to the right place.

Today, Angie Orth is back with Kyle Mulinder, AKA, Bare Kiwi. In our last episode, he took us on a tour of New Zealand’s spectacular South Island. Today, he’s sharing 5 fun facts about “Kiwi” culture that’ll help you navigate this fascinating destination with a little more insight.

You’ll learn why everyone refers to natives as “kiwis”, and here’s a hint: it has nothing to do with a fuzzy green fruit. You’ll learn some local lingo that’s sure to impress the locals, regardless of whether or not you nail it on the first try. You’ll learn about the history of the haka dance, and we’ll tempt your taste buds with two must-try New Zealand favorites.

What You’ll Learn:

Why New Zealanders are referred to as “Kiwis” (0:45)
Maori terms to use and impress locals when you visit (1:52)
A quick history of the famous haka dance (2:51)
The only burger you need to eat in New Zealand (3:38)
How to consume (and love) Marmite (4:11)

Connect with Kyle Mulinder:

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwO5q-HWF_e94JLGMC9oN4g

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

Website: www.barekiwi.com

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

New Zealand’s South Island with Kyle Mulinder Jan 04, 2024

Show notes

Can’t decide between a mountaineering adventure or a relaxed beach vacation? Not sure whether you want to swim with dolphins or see penguins in their natural habitat? Dying to try bungee jumping or whitewater rafting, but a wine tour sounds equally tempting?

Well, today’s destination has all of the above… and so much more!

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Kyle Mulinder, the creative mind behind the vlogs and stunning photography of Bare Kiwi. Through his website, he showcases the countless wonders of New Zealand and shows aspiring travelers firsthand why this island belongs on everyone’s bucket list.

You’ll hear about New Zealand’s South Island, learn what makes it unique, and get some sound advice about how to safely navigate this road-trippers paradise. You’ll learn where to experience what Kyle calls “one of the top three things in the world I have ever done”, and the best time of year to do it. You’ll also discover where to tap into your adventurous side, and what to eat afterward.

What You’ll Learn: