Traveling with AAA

Latest Episodes:

Why to Add Cemeteries to Your Travel Bucket List Oct 05, 2023

Show notes

If you haven’t already been adding cemeteries to your travel itineraries, then you’ve been missing out.

These quiet, contemplative places might be filled with the bones and ashes of the deceased, but they hold a lot more than meets the eye.

Cemeteries are full of history, both in terms of what (or, rather, who) lies beneath, and in the stories of their construction. Some were built by famous architects, others dreamt up by creative horticulturalists, and some were designed to invite people in as places of recreation.

These are not just places to remember loved ones. They are also places full of stories and teeming with life.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Loren Rhoads, author of 199 Cemeteries to See Before You Die and Wish You Were Here: Adventures in Cemetery Travel. In the early ’90s, a travel hiccup forced her to alter her original itinerary, eventually landing her in a London bookshop, piquing her interest in cemeteries as travel destinations.

You’ll hear about what keeps drawing her to these sacred spaces, and how attitudes about enjoying cemetery grounds have changed throughout history. You’ll hear a few historical tidbits about some of the world’s most famous cemeteries, and why they’re encouraging people to visit. Loren also shares some of her favorite cemeteries in the US and abroad, and what made those visits so impactful.

What You’ll Learn:

● Why cemeteries should be added to your travel plans (2:49)

● The real reason Père Lachaise is the most-visited cemetery in the world (4:38)

● How a historic L.A. cemetery became a popular tourist destination (10:33)

● The many ways to experience a cemetery (13:06)

● Her top 3 unmissable cemeteries (15:51)

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/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvTI4Zh74nsCLGmOBqulRRQ

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

Has Social Media Ruined Travel? With JoAnna Haugen and B.A. Van Sise Sep 21, 2023

Show notes

Do you often wonder how much social media is in the driver's seat of your travel experience?

In the era of influencers and our ever-greater accessibility to travel, it’s essential to ask ourselves about the role of social media. It affects everything, from our choices about where to go, what to see, where to stay, to perhaps most importantly, how we document our experiences for others to see. As the creators of these stories, we bear a certain amount of responsibility to those we inspire and to the communities we visit and promote.

So, how do we travel responsibly and respectfully in the social media age?

Today, Angie Orth welcomes two industry experts to answer some important questions about social media and travel. JoAnna Haugen is a writer, speaker, and passionate advocate for sustainable and responsible travel. B.A. Van Sise is an author and photographer who focuses on the relationship between language and imagery.

You’ll hear thoughtful perspectives about how travel has changed (or not?) since the arrival of social media. You’ll hear stories about communities and “Instagram hotspots” that have been affected, and even how lives have been lost. You’ll also hear thoughts on what this technology adds to our travels.

For better or for worse, social media seems to be perpetually along for the ride.

If you feel like it might be time to reclaim your experiences from the grips of this social behemoth, but you don’t necessarily want to go off-grid, then this episode will provide some thought-provoking answers.

What You’ll Learn:

● An example of how social media has changed our travel experiences (2:57)

● How social media contributes to over-tourism (7:39)

● Reclaiming your travel experiences from the grasp of technology (13:20)

● The pros of cons of social media from an artist's perspective (19:55)

● What we miss out on when technology and travel collide (27:45)

Connect with JoAnna Haugen:

Website: https://www.joannahaugen.com/

Connect with B.A. Van Sise:

Website: https://bavansise.format.com/

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

Wine-tasting in Europe & the U.S. with Jennifer Dombrowski Sep 07, 2023

Show notes

Bordeaux, Barolo, and Prosecco…oh my!

Wine is one of the simple pleasures in life and one of the most enjoyable. Whether you’re sipping a glass on the hilltop of an ancient European castle or sharing a bottle with a friend on a Friday night, you’re holding history in the palm of your hand.

And, let’s face it, there’s no better travel combination than wine, travel, and history.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Jennifer Dombrowski. She’s a wine lover based in Bordeaux, France. The Pennsylvania native has traveled the world as a writer and photographer covering luxury adventure travel and food and wine experiences.

You’ll learn about the history of wine and understand why France has played such a pivotal and historical role in its production. You’ll hear about unique wine-tasting experiences you can enjoy in Europe and throughout the US. You’ll also learn a simple way to pair wine with your meals, boosting your confidence and wine knowledge along the way!

What You’ll Learn:

● A few fun and historical facts about wine (3:22)

● What makes France such a powerhouse in the wine world (8:43)

● Unique wine-tasting experiences (10:25), (19:05)

● Wine-producing areas in the US (16:51)

● The newest trend in winemaking and why it’s important (24:30)

Connect with Jennifer Dombrowski:

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

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

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

A Local's Guide to Alaska Travel Aug 24, 2023

Show notes

Seeing bears and caribou while floating past gem-like glaciers isn’t a normal, everyday experience for most people. But for Alaskans, it’s just another day in the wild paradise of America’s 49th state.

If you’ve been dreaming about seeing Alaska’s incredible range of wildlife and exploring the state’s crystal-clear waters, then you’re in luck. Today’s guest is here to help you get closer to ticking this wild mountain paradise off your bucket list. Well, for the first time, anyway.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Valerie Stimac to the show. She’s an award-winning travel writer and the author of Dark Skies, A Practical Guide to Astro Tourism. A native Alaskan, she’s here to share her love for the breathtaking, bountiful, and beautiful 49th state.

You’ll discover the best ways to navigate Alaska, whether by plane, boat, or RV (and you’ll get a few road tips for getting around a land without interstate highways). You’ll learn where to see the most abundant wildlife and the best way to get there. You’ll also hear a few tips if you want to visit Alaska on a budget, and the best way to see the magical lights of the Aurora Borealis.

What You’ll Learn:

Where to see the “Big 5” in Alaska (4:58)
How to see Alaska from the water (11:26)
Visiting Alaska on a budget (13:12)
Experiencing Alaska’s Native culture (16:11)
How the culinary scene is evolving (18:10)
Planning to see the Aurora Borealis (20:42)

Connect with Valerie Stimac:

Website: https://valeriestimac.com/

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

Book: https://valeriestimac.com/shop/

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

Discovering Japanese Culture & History with Don George Aug 10, 2023

Show notes

When you think of going somewhere that’s a true departure from the familiar, a place with both stunning natural beauty and impressive modern flair, then it won’t take long before visions of Japan begin to fill your mind. The cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are natural starting points for the first-time visitor.

If you’re ready to discover the rich cultural traditions of Japan and witness the country’s distinctive blend of ancient and modern architecture, then we’ve got an experienced guide to help point you in the right direction.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Don George, a lifelong “Japanophile” who has spent decades exploring this incredible island nation. He’s a celebrated travel writer who now leads Geographic Expeditions tours through Japan.

You’ll learn about the geography of Japan and how the major islands and biggest destinations differ from one another. We’ll talk about navigating the language barrier, and who to seek out if you need help. Don shares his experiences of generosity and kindness from locals on his travels, and he’ll provide a few tips for taking your first warm dip in a Japanese onsen.

What You’ll Learn:

Where to start if you’re a first-time visitor to Japan (3:03)
Tips for navigating the language barrier (7:31)
Exploring the Geisha tradition (14:41)
What to expect when you visit an onsen (17:13)
What’s possible when you venture off of the beaten path (23:57)

Connect with Don George:

Blog: http://www.don-george.com/blog

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

An Expert Guide to Paris & the 2024 Summer Olympics Jul 27, 2023

Show notes

Is there anything more quintessentially Parisian than biting into a warm croissant, sipping a strong cup of coffee, and people watching from the table of a quaint cafe?

Well, if you haven’t experienced the many pleasures of Paris yet, then today’s guest will have you dreaming of the River Seine by the time you finish this episode.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Lee Abbamonte, a busy blogger and world traveler who has been back to Paris over 60 times! For the seasoned Francophile or the first-time visitor, he’s here to provide insider tips for anyone planning a visit to Paris in the next year.

You’ll hear his expert tips on where to eat, where to stay, and how to avoid the crowds in the most visited city in the world. He shares what he loves about the Paris experience, the best spots to snap that iconic Eiffel Tower photo, what to consider when visiting the Louvre, Paris’ historic importance, and some excellent alternatives for stunning city views that don’t require waiting in line. You’ll also hear what Paris is doing to prepare for the 2024 Summer Olympics and what makes this years opening ceremony different than any other.

What You’ll Learn:

● Lee’s favorite neighborhood to stay in when visiting Paris (2:17)

● Where to get an authentic Parisian meal (3:42)

● What makes the the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris unique (8:29)

● An alternative to going up the Eiffel Tower (12:07)

● Lesser-known spots to avoid the crowds in Paris (15:39)

Connect with Lee Abbomonte:

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

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

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

Explore Mexico like a Local with Tim Leffel & Lydia Carey Jul 13, 2023

Show notes

Mexico has long been drawing American travelers. From bustling Mexico City to charming Puerto Vallarta and down to the inviting beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula, we’re bringing you the best of Mexico. The country has stunning seaside resorts, delicious street food, and friendly family distilleries, making it a great destination for all kinds of travelers.

Today, your new Traveling with AAA host, Angie Orth, welcomes two Mexico travel experts to the show. Tim Leffel lives in Guanajuato and is the editor of the website Perceptive Travel. Lydia Carey is a freelance writer based in Mexico City.

You’ll hear about the pace of life that makes Mexico feel so special, even in big cities. You’ll learn what makes destinations like Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and the Yucatan Peninsula different, and which location might be best for the kind of vacation you’re planning. You’ll also hear where to find delicious street food and the best way to sample traditional Mexican spirits.

What You’ll Learn:

● Where to go and what to eat on your first visit to Mexico City (4:05)

● Finding local, traditional spirits like mezcal and pulque (6:49)

● Enjoying tunique cenote pool experiences (10:35)

● Journeying to remote islands from Puerto Vallarta (14:08)

● Festivals to plan your trip around (17:04)

● Advice for visiting Mexico from local perspectives (20:53)

Connect with:

Tim Leffel: https://timleffel.com/

Lydia Carey: https://mexicocitystreets.com/author/alphabetiegmail-com/

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

Exploring Underrated U.S. National Parks with Gary Arndt Jun 29, 2023

Show notes

Fresh air, wildlife sightings, and wide-open vistas are the hallmarks of our US National Parks. There’s something so special about visiting these places, but that untamed beauty also comes with a downside. At our most popular parks, especially in summer, crowds are inevitable.

So, what’s the best way to navigate the parks, and is it possible to avoid the crowds altogether? Today’s guest, Gary Arndt, has some expert tips that will help you do just that.

Since 2007, Gary has practically made world exploration his full-time job. Through his travels, he has seen more of the US National Park system than just about anyone. His deep curiosity about the world comes through on his podcast, Everything, Everywhere, where he takes deep dives into cultural and historic topics inspired by his travels.

During his conversation with Mary Harendeen, you’ll learn why the US National Park system has a lot more to offer than just parks, and how you can take advantage of off-the-beaten-path locales. He discusses the impact of over-tourism and offers useful tips on avoiding crowds, helping you venture outside of the most crowded parks to discover lesser-known options.

What You’ll Learn:

How to discover more within the US National Park System [2:17)
Lesser-known destinations where you can avoid the crowds (5:31) (16:53)
Exploring outside of the most popular parks in Utah (11:20)
The best parks for families and solo travelers (15:49)
Getting the most out of your National Park visits with a park pass (19:37)

Connect with Gary Arndt:

Podcast: https://everything-everywhere.com/

Connect with Mary Herendeen:

Mary Herendeen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-herendeen-626984174/

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

Best Family Road Trip Destinations with Kristen Bor Jun 15, 2023

Show notes

There’s something magical about packing your bags, planning out your meals, and loading your friends and family into a van or RV for a road trip. You park and plant yourself in the midst of nature. One day, your front porch is a fiery red sunset overlooking the red rocks of Sedona. Another, it’s a misty seaside morning on the Santa Barbara coast.

Road trips have long been an American pastime. It’s only the form they’ve taken that has changed. These days, more Americans are venturing out in fully outfitted vans, living their own variations on #VanLife.

Today, Mary Herendeen welcomes Kristen Bor, an outdoor enthusiast who has spent nearly a decade balancing life at home and serious adventures on the open road. In 2014, she left her job and loaded up a van to spend more time outdoors. This eventually led her to #VanLife. Her website, Bearfoot Theory helps road-trippers and #VanLifers equip themselves with the right gear and discover the best van and RV-friendly destinations. Her blog offers helpful advice for anyone planning a road trip or thinking about long-term travel on the road.

You’ll hear about her introduction to van life and what she learned about van design as her needs changed with a partner and a growing family. She shares how summers on the road keep her close to nature, and she reveals her favorite U.S. destinations for road trips.

What You’ll Learn:

● Why van life has become so popular in recent years (2:31)

● Advice for long-term road trippers and prospective van lifers (6:09)

● How to shower on the road (9:20)

● Connecting with nature in our National Parks (14:11)

● Her favorite road trip destination (16:54)

Connect with Kristen Bor:

Bearfoot Theory

Connect with Mary Herendeen:

Mary Herendeen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-herendeen-626984174/

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

Summer Trips to Europe and How to Avoid the Crowds With Alyson Long Jun 01, 2023

Show notes

The world has opened up again, and we’re packing our bags and taking flight to faraway places. As the summer months approach, popular destinations prepare for the busy upcoming tourist season.

It should come as no surprise that Europe tops many travelers’ lists. With so many people planning European summer vacations this year, we thought it would be a good idea to call in an expert.

Today, Mary Herendeen welcomes Alyson Long, a full-time world traveler and CEO of World Travel Family. She travels full-time with her husband, Chef, and their 2 sons. Alyson has spent more than 20 years exploring the world, sharing her stories and the adventures of her traveling family on her blog. World Travel Family has become one of the planet’s biggest travel blogs with immense influence and invaluable insight.

You’ll hear about Alyson’s life on the road, what it’s like being a full-time traveler, and how she manages her adventures with a family in tow. She shares tips on successfully navigating non-English–speaking destinations, choosing the right accommodation for your needs, and the best way to experience busy places while maximizing your time. You’ll also hear about a few off-the beaten-track places in the UK if you’re looking for a quieter vacation experience.

What You’ll Learn:

● The biggest challenges when traveling off the beaten path (4:19)

● Deciding on the right kind of accommodation for your trip (15:20)

● What details to plan in advance and how to leave room for spontaneity (19:06)

● Tips for buying tickets for museums and big attractions (20:49)

● What to see if you’re traveling to or through the UK (24:06)

Connect with Alyson Long:

Website: https://worldtravelfamily.com/

Blog: https://worldtravelfamily.com/travel-blog/

Connect with Mary Herendeen:

Mary Herendeen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-herendeen-626984174/

Connect with AAA: