Traveling with AAA

Latest Episodes:

Part II: Best Places to Travel in 2024 with Paula Twidale Dec 14, 2023

Show notes

Still mulling over where to spend your vacation time this year?

A beach vacation, a spectacular hiking destination, or a ….? With so many options, how can you decide where to go?

Well, you’re in luck! In part 2 of our Hot Destinations series, we’re helping you narrow it down, pointing you in the direction of your next memorable trip.

Today, Angie Orth is back with Paula Twidale, the senior vice president of travel at AAA. As a five-time Travel Agent Magazine nominee for one of the most powerful women in travel, she has the inside scoop on trending destinations.

You’ll hear which destinations are trending, from the warm waters of the Mediterranean to the flashy cities of Southeast Asia. Learn where to go if you’re an art lover, an architectural admirer, or a fan of milk chocolate or dark stout.

What You’ll Learn:

Island hopping, iconic whitewashed buildings, and mouthwatering Mediterranean food (0:45)
Sturdy stout, friendly locals, and spirited sing-alongs on the Emerald Isle (3:49)
A quintessential European destination for art, architecture, and romantic vibes (6:25)
The ultimate lake destination for chocolate lovers (8:07)
A taste of the tropics in an ultra-modern city (9:56)

Resources:

Episode 34: The Pleasures of Paris & the 2024 Summer Olympics with Lee Abbomante

Episode 35: Discovering Japan - Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, & Beyond with Don George

Episode 43: The Best New Year's Eve Destinations Around the World with Lee Abbamonte and Alexandra Baackes

Connect with Paula Twidale:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-twidale-5985bb15

Connect with Angie Orth:

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

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

Website: https://angieaway.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

Part I: Best Places to Travel in 2024 with Paula Twidale Dec 07, 2023

Show notes

A new year means a new travel season. With so many global destinations to choose from, the selection can start to feel overwhelming.

But have no fear! Our short list of the hottest, most trending destinations is here!

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Paula Twidale, senior vice president of travel at AAA. Paula is a true travel enthusiast who offers a wealth of information about some of the most exciting destinations to add to your bucket list.

You’ll hear what’s trending among travelers in the know, and why experiential-focused getaways are more in demand than ever before. You’ll hear about 5 expert-selected recommendations and why these destinations are topping the list.

Whether you’re a foodie looking for a street-food paradise, a nature lover seeking stunning scenery, or a history buff waiting to be wowed by ancient architecture, there’s a destination on this list with your name on it.

What You’ll Learn:

Where to go for wine, river cruises, and old-world charm (4:35)
A destination for hikers, foodies, and history buffs (6:40)
The cultural haven for street-food lovers (9:43)
A coastal paradise for architectural sightseeing and Game of Thrones fans (11:01)
Going to the land Down Under for nature escapes and hearty brunches (12:46)

Resources:

Episode 34: The Pleasures of Paris & the 2024 Summer Olympics with Lee Abbomante

Episode 35: Discovering Japan - Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, & Beyond with Don George

Episode 43: The Best New Year's Eve Destinations Around the World with Lee Abbamonte and Alexandra Baackes

Connect with Paula Twidale:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-twidale-5985bb15

Connect with Angie Orth:

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

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

Website: https://angieaway.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

How Social Media Has Changed Travel Featuring Jeff Jenkins Nov 30, 2023

Show notes

When you’re immersed in a beautiful destination, it’s only natural to want to capture the moment on camera.

With the rise of social media, a lot has changed in the travel-verse. It’s important to consider whether we’re capturing moments to preserve those memories for ourselves—or if it’s really about “the likes.”

On the flip side, “likes” equal exposure. For people learning about places for the first time, and for burgeoning economies that rely on tourism, social media has provided opportunities.

So this begs the question: Has social media had a positive or a negative influence on travel?

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Jeff Jenkins to share his take on the influence of social media on travel. Jeff is the creator of Chubby Diaries, a website dedicated to encouraging plus-size people to get out and explore the world.

You’ll hear how Jeff has used social media as a tool to help build his business, and how it helped him promote a unique travel niche. He talks about the challenges of staying true to yourself in a crowded and competitive market, and he shares how he’s learned to preserve and maintain his authenticity. You’ll also hear his thoughts on how social media has helped local economies grow.

What You’ll Learn:

How social media has helped Jeff leverage his business (3:08)
Staying true to yourself through your travel experiences (6:20)
Thinking about your responsibilities as a creator in the travel space (10:46)
Statistics on who’s doing it for the “likes” versus the experience (13:37)
Why balance and rest are often overlooked aspects of travel (14:33)

Connect with Jeff Jenkins:

TV Show website: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/tv/shows/never-say-never-with-jeff-jenkins

Website: https://chubbydiaries.com/

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

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEAMJe2-AwcKjE_iq1HMhzw

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 Places to Eat in Puerto Rico with Jessica van Dop DeJesús Nov 23, 2023

Show notes

If last week’s episode already has you packing your bags for a vacation to Puerto Rico, then today’s mini-episode will answer the next, obvious question….

What should I eat in Puerto Rico?

Today, Angie Orth is back with food blogger Jessica van Dop DeJesús, author of The Dining Traveler Guide to Puerto Rico.

You’ll hear about Puerto Rican food culture and learn where to find the most mouthwatering dishes. DeJesús also reveals where you can find some of the most unique dining experiences on the island, and where to find some rather unusual ice cream flavors.

What You’ll Learn:

The most traditional dish to try (0:50)
A unique experience for foodies (1:07)
Where to find a delicious homestyle sandwich (1:40)
What to bring home from Puerto Rico—and how to do it (2:09)
Unique food experiences to have on the island (3:11)

Connect with Jessica van Dop DeJesús:

Website: https://www.diningtraveler.com/

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

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DiningTraveler

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

Essential Puerto Rico Travel Tips with Jessica van Dop DeJesús Nov 16, 2023

Show notes

What if there was a festive, friendly Caribbean island with rich culture and incredible food close enough for you to slip away for a long weekend?

Puerto Rico is the ultimate island destination. And believe it or not, you’re just a few hours away from walking along the white, sandy beaches and swimming in the crystal blue waters.

While a few days certainly isn’t enough time to see all that the island has to offer, it’s just enough to whet your appetite and keep you coming back for more.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Jessica van Dop DeJesús. Through her blog, The Dining Traveler, DeJesús has been exploring the culinary highlights of destinations around the world. But the flavors of her home island of Puerto Rico are where her heart is.

You’ll hear why a weekend away in Puerto Rico is much closer than you think, and why this often-overlooked Caribbean locale is experiencing a well-deserved boost in popularity. You’ll hear about the festive culture of the Puerto Rican people, where to find the best nightlife, and where to go if you’re looking for a quiet beach to get some tropical R&R.

What You’ll Learn:

The impressive recovery effort and tourism boom after Hurricane Maria (4:45)
One of the best seasons to visit Puerto Rico (7:00)
Where to enjoy the best live music and culture (9:01)
Why Puerto Rico is a great escape for a long weekend (11:32)
Off-the-beaten-path things to do in Puerto Rico (15:00)

Connect with Jessica van Dop DeJesús:

Website: https://www.diningtraveler.com/

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

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DiningTraveler

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 Year's Eve Bucket List Experiences with Lee Abbamonte and Alexandra Baackes Nov 09, 2023

Show notes

Planning on splashing out this New Year’s Eve, but you’re still not sure where to go?

If last week’s episode stimulated your appetite for celebration, then this week’s mini episode will help you narrow your party options down even further.

Today, Angie Orth circles back with Lee Abbamonte and Alexandra Baackes to get their expert recommendations, sharing a few of their all-time favorite New Year’s Eve celebrations.

You’ll hear their must-do, bucket list picks in the U.S. and abroad, and you’ll hear where to go if you’re looking for a tropical-flavored New Year’s Eve party. They’ll also share some sentimental celebrations that made an impression, and tell you what they think about people planning weddings on New Year’s Eve.

What You’ll Learn:

Lee’s bucket list (0:42)
Ideas for celebrating a summer-season New Year’s Eve abroad (1:14)
An unusual beach destination that feels off the beaten path (2:21)
The sentimental value of partying local with loved ones (3:07)
Their thoughts on New Year’s Eve weddings (3:56)

Connect with Lee Abbamonte:

Website: https://www.leeabbamonte.com/

Connect with Alexandra Baackes:

Website: https://www.alexinwanderland.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

Best New Year's Destinations Nov 02, 2023

Show notes

Where are you celebrating New Year’s Eve this year?

It’s a question that feels exciting and a bit nerve-racking at the same time.

New Year’s Eve is both a beginning and an end. It’s bidding farewell to the year that’s passed, and welcoming the new one in the best way possible. Naturally, we want to celebrate in a place that feels special.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes a pair of trusted travel experts to help you answer the big NYE questions. Lee Abbamonte has celebrated in some of the biggest and brightest cities in the U.S. and abroad, and Alexandra Baackes loves to explore how different cultures around the world ring in the new year.

You’ll hear about unique celebrations in global destinations. You’ll get an honest rundown of what it’s like to party in some of the most famous and iconic New Year’s Eve events in the U.S. and abroad. And most importantly, you’ll discover the type of celebration that inspires you to solidify your New Year’s plans, whether you’re traveling to an exotic locale or keeping it local.

What You’ll Learn:

How Australia makes New Year’s Eve celebrations accessible for all bedtimes (2:48)
Thoughts on those big-city celebration destinations (4:15)
New Year’s Eve advice for anyone trying to decide how to celebrate (6:28)
Why you should leave room for the unexpected (8:41)
A fun U.S. New Year’s destination that feels off the big-party radar (12:13)

Connect with Lee Abbamonte:

Website: https://www.leeabbamonte.com/

Connect with Alexandra Baackes:

Website: https://www.alexinwanderland.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

Top 5 Maui Experiences with Leanne Pletcher Oct 26, 2023

Show notes

Dreaming of a vacation to the island of Maui?

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

Today, Angie Orth is back with Leanne Pletcher, director of Public Relations & Marketing at the Maui Visitors & Convention Bureau. Last week, she shared everything you need to know about visiting the island and helping the local economy recover from the 2023 fire in Lahaina.

In this mini-episode, we’re filling out your must-do list with the best of what to see and do on your Maui vacation.

What You’ll Learn:

The best experiences and festivals for foodies (0:35)
How to connect with the culture of Maui (1:19)
The top experiences for kids (1:37)
How to get the best birds eye view of the island (2:12)
The best water-related activities (2:43)

Connect with Leanne Pletcher:

Email: leanne@mauivb.com

Hawaii Visitors and Conventions Bureau: https://www.hvcb.org/

Maui Travel Updates: https://www.gohawaii.com/maui-travel-updates

Connect with Angie Orth:

Website +Blog: https://angieaway.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angieaway/?hl=en

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

Traveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcast

Plan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

How Tourism Is Helping Maui Recover with Leanne Pletcher Oct 19, 2023

Show notes

If you were to dream up the ultimate beach vacation, you’d want a place that’s warm, welcoming, and unbelievably scenic in every direction. You’d want a place where you could relax on a soft sandy beach, and just as easily go for a mountain hike to work up an appetite for epic local food and tropical fruit-filled drinks.

In other words, you’d dream of Maui.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Leanne Pletcher, director of Public Relations & Marketing at the Maui Visitors & Convention Bureau. For the people of Maui, hospitality has long been an important part of their economy. After the 2023 fires in Lahaina, we thought this might be the perfect time to check in, and remind anyone who’s thinking of a Maui vacation that many parts of the island are open for business and welcoming visitors with open arms.

You’ll learn the geography of the island to better understand which areas are still recovering, and the many regions that have remained open to visitors. Leanne shares the importance of tourism and how choosing Maui for your beach vacation can make a difference to the island community. You’ll also hear unique ways to experience Hawaiian culture and how you can participate in eco-driven voluntourism during your visit.

What You’ll Learn:

What it means to travel with Malama (2:58)
The local food movement in Maui (6:29)
Understanding the concept of Aloha (7:22)
How to experience authentic local culture in Maui (8:30)
Voluntourism opportunities and lesser-known places to visit (13:26)
Everything you need to know about local whale watching (15:29)

Connect with Leanne Pletcher:

Email: leanne@mauivb.com

Hawaii Visitors and Conventions Bureau: https://www.hvcb.org/

Maui Travel Updates: https://www.gohawaii.com/maui-travel-updates

Connect with Angie Orth:

Website +Blog: https://angieaway.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angieaway/?hl=en

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

Traveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcast

Plan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

Top 5 Cemeteries to Visit Oct 12, 2023

Show notes

Last week, you heard why cemeteries around the world should be making it onto your travel itinerary.

This week, we’re pointing the compass toward 5 must-see cemeteries to help you kick start what’s sure to be your new favorite travel curiosity.

Today, Angie Orth shares more of her interview with Loren Rhoads, author of 199 Cemeteries to See Before You Die and Wish You Were Here: Adventures in Cemetery Travel. She’s a cemetery travel expert here to share her love for final resting places and help you decide which ones should be added to your list.

You’ll hear her top recommendations based on the kind of cemetery that best sparks your interest. Whether you want to do something a little extra spooky this Halloween, check out some unique architecture, be enveloped in greenery, or see where the King of Rock ’n’ Roll had his last dance, you’ll be sure to find some inspiration in today’s episode.

What You’ll Learn:

● The best cemetery to visit for a spooky Halloween (1:10)

● A stunning cemetery for nature lovers (1:38)

● Where to find the best architectural marvels (1:59)

● A truly unusual bone collection (2:25)

● The cemetery to visit if you’re a U.S. history buff (3:41)

Connect with Loren Rhoads:

Website: https://lorenrhoads.com/

Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/LorenRhoadsAuthor/

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/morbidloren.bsky.social

Twitter: https://twitter.com/morbidloren

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