Travelogue | Condé Nast Traveler

A Year in Travel 2018 Dec 28, 2018

A recap of the year's good, bad, and tragic travel moments. After three years of the Travelogue podcast, this is our last episode. We’ve had such an amazing time sharing our travel stories and tips with you, and want to thank you for being such loyal listeners. Read more here: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/a-year-in-travel-2018-travelogue-podcast

What It Takes to Make Our Gold List Dec 21, 2018

January 2019 marks the first transatlantic print issue of Condé Nast Traveler—and what better issue to launch with than an exhaustive list of our New York and London editors' favorite hotels, resorts, and cruise ships? In honor of this inaugural edition and our annual best-of-the-best Gold List, we put together a cast of British and American editors to chat about what it really takes to make the cut.

What to Do When Your Trip Goes Terribly, Horribly Wrong Dec 14, 2018

For the most part, travel goes smoothly. But when it doesn't, it seems like it really doesn't: The river cruise you've been waiting the whole year to take is skipping a port you're excited about due to low water levels. Or your flight is delayed. And delayed. Delayed, delayed, delayed again, until eventually, it's canceled. Say you finally get on a flight, then, only to arrive at your destination and find that your hotel room has been given to someone else, since you didn't check in when you said you would. But what do you actually do in any or all of these situations, and better yet, what rights do you have? On this latest episode of the Travelogue podcast, we set out to answer these questions.

Where We're Going in 2019 Dec 08, 2018

All year long, Condé Nast Traveler editors meet with hotel owners and cruise operators, tourism boards and globe trotters, to pick their brains; we rack up air miles checking out new openings and revisiting places we haven't seen in 20 years. We talk to our peers in the U.K. at Condé Nast Traveller (two Ls, folks) about where they're heading next year. And we take all that intel and wrangle it this annual list of the best places to go next year—19 in 2019, lest you get bored. For more info: https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/19-best-places-to-go-in-2019

Everything We Want for Christmas This Year Nov 30, 2018

In this week's episode of Travelogue, our editors are walk through our gift guides and give a few hints as to what they're giving this year (and what they're hoping to get). There's a little bit of everything: luggage (Away, of course), stocking stuffers to help reduce your plastic consumption, and the noise-cancelling headphones we've been raving about. Find all of the products mentioned at: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/everything-we-want-for-christmas-this-year-travelogue-podcast

We Planned Your First Trip to London Nov 23, 2018

This'll serve you well on your second—or twenty-second—visit, too.

How to Survive Holiday Travel With the Kids Nov 16, 2018

It's possible, we swear. Tune in to hear: Samantha Brown, host of PBS's Places to Love and mom to five-year-old twins Ellis and Elizabeth; Alex Postman, Condé Nast Traveler's features director and mom to Nell (12), Charlie (17), and Sam (19); Gina Lee, senior director of product at Priceline and mom to Sebastian (4) and Colette (5 months); Brian Sumers, senior aviation business editor at Skift and dad to Taylor (19 months); and host Laura Redman, Condé Nast Traveler's deputy digital director and mom to Hailey (18 months). See the full show notes at https://www.cntraveler.com/story/how-to-survive-holiday-travel-with-the-kids-travelogue-podcast.

The Joys and Trials of Living Overseas Nov 09, 2018

This episode originally aired October 20, 2017. Packing up your life and moving halfway around the world is exciting, but it can also be extremely challenging. Here, we learn from those who have done it.

Things You Should Never, Ever Do on a Road Trip Nov 03, 2018

For many of us, road trips across the U.S. were our first introduction to travel—for others who grew up abroad, the road trip was the pinnacle of American-ness. In this episode, our editors tackle the do's, don'ts, and *oh hell no's* of the road trip. And, as usual with *Traveler* editors, there is no grey area. Only the most navigation-savvy person gets to sit in the passenger seat. That's right, shotgun does not apply. The shortest person gets the middle seat (#sorrynotsorry). The driver gets the all-powerful veto on music, full stop. And wild card: Italy's Autogrill may one-up any American rest stop. Be prepared for lots of laughs, and plenty of yelling.

The Overtourism Stories You Haven't Heard Oct 27, 2018

The first thing you need to know is that this is a part two of sorts, to an overtourism podcast episode we ran in 2017. You should probably that episode first. But in this week's episode, we check in on places in almost every stage of overtourism—from the brink of discovery (the Azores), to the one who's got it all figured out (Bhutan), to the city potentially past the point of no return (Venice). All while arguing over whether this overtourism problem facing islands, cities, and entire countries around the world will ever have a perfect solution.

Inside the 2018 Readers' Choice Awards Oct 19, 2018

When 429,000 of you speak, we listen—and then we talk about it on the podcast. If you want to know how the sausage gets made, why editor-favorite Hot List hotels (and destinations) are popping up in our RCAs faster than ever, why we're so freaking excited that Traveler readers voted a hotel like the Sagamore Pendry Baltimore as the number one hotel in the U.S., listen in. (Visit cntraveler.com for a list of all hotels mentioned.)

We Planned Your First Trip to Chicago Oct 12, 2018

Those who know it wouldn't dare call Chicago a second city, so it's no wonder it won the best city in the U.S. in our recently released Readers' Choice Awards. Listen in for intel on where to eat, stay, and play in Chicago.

Our Favorite Late Night Eats Around the World Oct 05, 2018

Warning: Do not listen to this episode on an empty stomach. From fries to doner kebabs, here's what our editors eat after hours.

How to Find the Perfect Suitcase Sep 29, 2018

Do you opt for the durability of a hard shell or the flexibility of soft canvas? Is a built-in battery a must-have or a frivolous marketing ploy? Does the way a suitcase looks matter more than how smoothly it rolls? These luggage questions spark iron-clad opinions in frequent travelers. So on this week's episode, we hit the proverbial baggage claim to look at the backpacks, rollaboards, and check-in suitcases that rule... And the ones that don't.

Where You Should Go This Fall Sep 21, 2018

From Mexico to New York, here are some fall getaways we can't wait to take.

Things You Should Never, Ever Do in a Restaurant Sep 14, 2018

We cover when it's ok to eat with your hands (steak, never; bacon, always), as well as how to navigate all the different utensils, how picky you're allowed to be, and our overall pet peeves. (Don't use flash photography. Just don't.)

It's Hurricane Season. Time to Plan Your Trip to the Caribbean Sep 07, 2018

Every September, knuckles from Maine to Venezuela whiten with the approach of storm season, that 3-month window when the wide stretch of the Atlantic between Dakar and Antigua threatens to fling spirals of torrential rain and wind at our eastern coasts. In this episode, we give you tips on staying safe and protecting your vacation in hurricane zones, including how to choose a low-risk island and what to do when things go wrong. We'll revisit the classics, and update you on Puerto Rico, St. Barth's, St. Maarten, and other spots that were hit hard during last year's season. And we'll tell you, as we've told you many times before, why it's so important to go—not just for them, but for you.

We Planned Your First Trip to Boston Aug 31, 2018

Historical sites, the best dive bars, and (of course) the Green Monstah: We cover it all.

Where to Go for Labor Day Weekend Aug 24, 2018

Because we actually planned in advance this year...

The Road Trips We're Taking Right Now Aug 10, 2018

The tried, tested, and new.

How to Never Blow a Family Vacation Again Aug 03, 2018

Your squeeze-the-most-outta-those-precious-18-summers playbook to family travel.

We Planned Your First Trip to Sydney Jul 20, 2018

Wait. What's that? You still haven't been to Sydney? What the "bloody hell" are you waiting for? Actually, it's all good. Because on this week's episode, our editors who know, love, and, in some cases, have lived in Australia's biggest city tell you exactly what you need to know for your first trip down there. We unpack everything, from why you should not be put off by the long flight over to the neighborhoods to hit, day trips to take, and beaches to spend entire days on. And then, well, there's the food...

Our Favorite Foods in America Jul 13, 2018

Spoiler alert: none of them are vegetables.

Things You Should Never, Ever Do in a Hotel Jul 06, 2018

Do you take a bath? Raid the mini-bar? Work in the lobby? Get your towels replaced every day? Use the hotel safe? As usual, our editors have lots of opinions, and duke it out over hotel do's and don'ts in this week's episode.

How Anthony Bourdain Changed Travel Jun 29, 2018

It seems fair to say Tony Bourdain changed travel even more than he changed food. He may not have *invented* what we now call “experiential” or “immersive” travel, but it *was* how he rolled, and he did it so completely, so consistently, and on such massive stages that it’s become the default mode of travel for an entire generation, leading to a wholesale reshaping of the industry. So in this week’s pod we take a look at how his work, from *Kitchen Confidential* through *Cook’s Tour* and *No Reservations* all the way to *Parts Unknown*, laid down not just a way of looking at the world, but of moving through it.

Is LGBTQ+ Travel Inherently Political? Jun 22, 2018

In this week's episode, we handed the hosting reins over to contributing media editor Mark Ellwood to answer some complicated questions: Is LGBTQ+ travel political just because it's LGBTQ+ travel? Does spending your money as an LGBTQ+ traveler mean you're encouraging anti-queer policies? The answers? That's complicated, too.

We Planned Your Next Trip to Barcelona Jun 15, 2018

Here at the Traveler office, we may disagree on a few things, but Barcelona isn’t one of them. What’s not to love? The capital of Catalonia is at once a late-night party town and a destination for those seeking time-traveling tranquility; a place where you can be eating Michelin-starred tapas one minute and listening to live jazz on the rooftop of a Gaudí masterpiece the next.

Why Plastic in Our Oceans Is a Travel Problem, Too Jun 08, 2018

There are some things that are just too damn big to fit into our little brains: The scale of the universe, the size of a T-Rex, the amount of plastic in our oceans. To wrap our heads around it, we need to resort to analogies, comparisons, or shrink the problem down into something comprehensible—so how's this? The equivalent of an entire NYC garbage truck full of plastic enters our oceans every minute, and by 2050, there will be more plastic in the sea than fish. Or this: There are 500 times more pieces of plastic on earth than there are stars in our galaxy. But despite the problem being so immense, sometimes we don't notice it until it washes up on our favorite beach, or gets into our favorite food (yep, there are probably microplastics in that tuna you're eating). This week on the Travelogue podcast, we try our best to understand the magnitude of plastic's hold on our ocean ecosystems—and talk about what you can do to end it.

How to Survive a Summer of Crazy-Busy Air Travel Jun 01, 2018

Air travel this summer is going to be nuts: Some 246.1 million passengers will fly on U.S. airlines between June 1 and August 31—an average of about 2.68 million passengers per day, according to the recent forecast from Airlines for America (A4A), a trade group that represents the largest airlines in the U.S. Put more simply? That security line—and the one at your regular airport Auntie Anne's—is going to be longer than usual. Here's what you can do to minimize the stress of handling the summer rush.

What Makes a Hotel Great May 18, 2018

Each year, we vet hundreds (hundreds!) of hotel openings around the world to produce our annual selection of the best of the new: the Hot List. We're not gonna lie, it's a sweet gig. But there's a lot more to the process than simply dialing room service, testing the fluffiness of bathrobes, and hoping the bartender in the (fabulous) lobby bar remembers that we like our Old Fashioneds with *one* piece of ice. On this week's podcast we unpack just what goes into the year-long process of creating the final list. And in the process, we ask ourselves how the meaning of "great," when it comes to hotels, may be changing.

Where You Should Go This Summer May 11, 2018

Everyone has their summer vacation spot—the beach bungalow on the Outer Banks or the Jersey Shore, or the lake house in Michigan or Idaho where the whole family gathers every year. It's wonderful, it's nostalgic, it...gets old. What if you could convince the crew to visit, say, Isla Holbox in Mexico this Fourth of July, where there aren't any crowds or chain restaurants, the weather is in the mid-80s, and the hot new Punta Caliza resort just opened? Or maybe you plan that trip to Switzerland you always wanted to take because the Swiss franc is no longer stronger than the U.S. dollar, and resorts in St. Moritz are more affordable now than in the winter? Those are just two spots that are prime vacation destinations this summer—and there are ten more we recommend in this week's Travelogue podcast.

We Plan Your First Safari May 04, 2018

Planning a safari can be overwhelming. So on this week's Travelogue podcast, some of our more seasoned safari-goers chat with a first-timer to talk the malaria threat (the farther south, the lower the risk), where and when to bring your kids, and how to book a camp where your plunge pools might double as elephant drinking holes. We also share some of our more, let's say, adrenaline-raising safari tales; you'll have to listen to find out at which camp an editor was joined by predatory leopards and hyenas on her walk back to her tent, and argue over which creature is the savanna's deadliest (a few colorful anecdotes are attached to that one, too). To check out our complete guide to safari head to: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/the-complete-guide-to-safari

What’s Happening to Our National Parks? Apr 27, 2018

We called in some experts to school us on National Parks 101: What's the difference between a monument and park? How many are there of each? How long have we had them? Are any of our beloved parks under threat? What does it take to maintain a national park, and can we all help?

Weed Tourism: How Legal Marijuana Is Changing Travel Apr 20, 2018

As of today—April 20, natch—recreational marijuana is legal in 9 states plus the District of Columbia. That gives everyone who *doesn't* live in those states a whole new reason to travel. And it’s birthing a new wing of the travel industry, too—one that’s spread roots through everything from food to hotels to souvenir shops. On this week’s podcast we take a long, deep hit of this nascent phenomenon. No doubt weed, now that it’s legit, will be big. But how will Big Weed change travel?

Sacred Travel in the 21st Century Apr 13, 2018

Humans have chased higher understanding around the globe since before recorded history. We may not always recognize them, but those journeys continue today. On the heels of our recently released exploration of Sacred Travel (https://www.cntraveler.com/story/sacred-travel), we're talking about spiritual journeys, including those from our own experiences. What separates a “spiritual” trip from any other kind? How do we find something greater than ourselves—intentionally or not—when we get away from home? And who, at the end of the day, will transport and house us on those journeys?

Can You Visit Every Country in the World Without Burning Out? Apr 06, 2018

We sit down with Jessica Nabongo, on a mission to be the first black woman to visit every country in the world.

U.S. Airlines Need to Do Better By Our Pets Mar 30, 2018

Pet deaths on a plane are rare, statistically speaking, but any one loss is very real to a pet owner. And when a major airline like United seems to screw up repeatedly, we need to put them on notice. In this week's Travelogue podcast, we cover what you need to know about flying with an animal, be it a cat in a carrier in the cabin, a Great Dane in cargo, or an emotional support pig...well, anywhere.

Why Etiquette Is Crucial—Wherever You Travel Mar 23, 2018

On the latest episode of the Travelogue podcast, we dive into all the ways you can be polite and impolite when traveling abroad, covering everything from hugging people in Britain upon meeting them (don't) to passing food with chopsticks in Japan (seriously, don't). Along the way, we talk about how English-speaking countries may be united in language but differ significantly in their etiquette, and how knowing how to tip in a country is just as important as knowing whether or not to tip at all. What do you do when you want a cappuccino in Italy and it's after 11 a.m.? How do you go about things if you really want a fork in Korea? Listen up.

What We Get Right About Accessible Travel Mar 16, 2018

This week, we're sharing the first episode of the new season of Women Who Travel, Condé Nast Traveler's second podcast. Hosts Lale Arikoglu and Meredith Carey chat with Alysia Kezerian and Julia Buckley about their experiences traveling with disabilities. Along the way, we learn how far we've come in terms of accessible travel, but also see how much work there is still to do.

We Planned Your Next Trip to Tokyo Mar 09, 2018

Everyone has heard of Tokyo: its grander-than-grand fish market; its imperial palace; its extravagant street fashions. Being there is a fever dream that you don't want to wake up from. With this in mind, we decided to do a deep dive into the Japanese capital, which was voted the world's best city in this year's Readers' Choice Awards and is featured in our brand-new collection of City Guides on the redesigned cntraveler.com—you know, ICYMI.

Where to Start with Frequent Flier Miles Mar 02, 2018

We've been talking a lot on Travelogue about where you should be going, but how are you supposed to get there? This week, we're replaying our 2017 episode about frequent flier miles so you can fly for less (if you play your cards right).

We Planned Your Next Trip to Italy Feb 23, 2018

We take you inside our March 2018 issue and break down what to do in northern, central, and southern Italy.

How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Getaway Feb 16, 2018

You can't cover a whole city in three days (but you can try). With that in mind, we dive into the anatomy of the perfect long weekend in this week's Travelogue podcast—sharing real stats (fact: more people are taking more long weekends) and lessons learned from our own trips.

Your Guide to South Korea (And the Olympics!) Feb 09, 2018

Olympics or no Olympics, you should get there. Get your own winter games on in PyeongChang or explore one of the most exciting and varied cities in Asia: Seoul. Fair warning: If you're anything like us, you won't be able to get through the podcast without Googling your flight options. And we're emphatically not responsible for any impulse trips to Asia that might result.

How to Get Through Airport Security Faster Feb 02, 2018

As airlines change the way they play the game—like adding basic economy seats and unbundling fares—travelers need a new set of hacks to feel a little more in control. Let's start with TSA PreCheck. Do you have it? Why not? No, seriously, tell us why: We debate its merits, along with Global Entry, Mobile Passport, and something called Clear, all of which can help you get through airport security or customs without having to wait in interminable lines. Plus, have you heard that some airlines now allow for automatic check-in? Or that they'll do biometric screenings—like, scan your eyes or face—to let you on the plane?

Things You Should Never, Ever Do on an Airplane Jan 26, 2018

Here at the Traveler office, we wholeheartedly agree on most things: that Summer Fridays should be taken full advantage of, that you shouldn't let fear get in the way of travel, and that Georgia is a country everyone should visit, like, now. But there are a few areas where the gloves come off and the disagreements fly—and admittedly, most of these are centered around air travel.

We Planned Your Next Trip to New Orleans Jan 19, 2018

Grabbing a beer to-go while hopping from one venue to the next, where some of the world's best musicians are playing to intimate crowds; a sculpture garden all to yourself; a plate of jambalaya that tastes like it's been perfected over generations one day, modern Israeli fare that will make you question everything you know about hummus the next. If any of that sounds good to you, we've got you covered on this episode of Travelogue, in which we talk all things New Orleans. The Crescent City can be overwhelming to the uninitiated—there's just so much to do, eat, drink, see, and hear, and far too often visitors spend three days in the admittedly quaint and fun French Quarter and call it a day. From a neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown of the city to the best places to check out some local music (see: everywhere), we make New Orleans just a little easier to navigate.

Why You Should Still Visit the Caribbean This Year Jan 12, 2018

On this week's Travelogue podcast, we wanted to show the Caribbean—a region very close to our hearts—some much-needed love. Now that we're in the thick of winter, it's the perfect time to book tropical getaways, and we've got a guide for what's happening on each and every island. From post-hurricane updates to our favorite activities (cuddling sting rays in Cayman is a must), listen in for all the latest Caribbean intel.

This Is Where You Should Go in 2018 Jan 05, 2018

Looking for the next Iceland? We’ve got you covered. Because there its a new year, and there are plenty of new places to explore.

Everything You’ve Wanted to Ask About Solo Travel Dec 29, 2017

This week, we're sharing the first episode of "Women Who Travel," a new podcast at Condé Nast Traveler by women, for everyone. You can listen to our other episodes and subscribe anywhere you find podcasts. Join the conversation as we dive into one of our favorite topics: solo travel.

The Future of the Road Trip Dec 22, 2017

How does a Jetson's future—with autonomous cars, smart roads, and the cities of tomorrow—become a reality? We talk shop with Ford Motor's in-house futurist Sheryl Connelly on this week's episode.

Overtourism Doesn't Mean You Have to Avoid Venice Dec 15, 2017

Scroll through the news on your phone, and it's likely you'll come across a story (or five) related to overtourism and how tourist-clogged destinations are cracking down on, well, tourists. But what exactly is overtourism? And is it a new problem, or just one getting more attention thanks to the prevalence of social media and the advent of the digital age? On this latest episode of Travelogue, we dive into those questions. Along the way, we discuss how places around the world are handling the issue, how technology is helping (and hurting) destinations, and which cities are just telling tourists to stay home. We even speak a little Italian—listen in to hear why.

In Search of Adventure Dec 08, 2017

In our latest episode of Travelogue, we dive deep into adventure in its many forms. We discuss how New Zealand basically invented extreme sports, share tales of rallies from the U.K. to Siberia that take two months, and try and parse what makes the best countries for adventure travel, well, the best. We also look closely at the evolution of extreme selfie-takers—in many ways, the new daredevils—and fold in a pretty good whale joke that actually is relevant to one editor's weekend of canyoning, biking, hiking, and being pushed to the limits in the Azores, an archipelago flung some 850 miles off the coast of Portugal. The rest? Well, you'll just have to listen up.

Flight Deals, Explained Dec 01, 2017

It's been just over a year since we first sat down with Scott Keyes, the flight deal guru behind Scott's Cheap Flights, on the Travelogue podcast. Now, with more than one million subscribers to his weekly newsletter, we checked in to ask him all of our burning questions (and yours) about the ins and outs of flight deals, round two.

Secrets of a Pilot and a Flight Attendant Nov 24, 2017

This is a rebroadcast of an episode originally released in August 2017. We sat down with a veteran pilot and former flight attendant to ask all our burning questions about what actually goes on at 30,000 feet.

Tourism Destinations That Have Changed Drastically in 30 Years Nov 17, 2017

Tourism has changed dramatically since Condé Nast Traveler published its first issue thirty years ago: You can't light up a cigarette on a transatlantic flight anymore (great), and "Basic Economy" is now a thing (not so great). But there are also places that through forces beyond just the tourism industry—political shifts, economic cycles, and technological revolutions—have changed so much, that we wouldn't even recognize them 30 years ago. On this episode of Travelogue, we take a deep dive into six such places to gain an understanding of what actually happened—and how it happened.

Making a Case to Spend the Holidays Abroad Nov 10, 2017

We dive into all of the messiness—and, it can be said, magic—of spending the holidays abroad, whether as an expat or just on vacation. From Christmas in Marrakech to Thanksgiving in Sydney (and Copenhagen, Singapore, and Paris), we discuss the challenges of sourcing hard-to-come-by cranberries, new ways of honoring old traditions, and how the holidays can actually be a really good time to get a flight deal.

How Far We've Traveled for Music, Marathons, and Motorsports Nov 03, 2017

Some of the best vacations are the aimless ones: when you go to a place with nothing but a hotel booked and a love of spontaneity. But there's a type of traveler who hits the road with purpose. We're not talking about business travel—it's more a passion pursuit, and this week on the Travelogue podcast we talk to four people who criss-cross the world for their obsessions.

What Annoys Us Most at 30,000 Feet Oct 27, 2017

There are only so many things you can control at 30,000 feet—and unfortunately, the behavior of other passengers isn’t one of them. On this week’s episode of Travelogue, the podcast of Condé Nast Traveler, editors duke it out over what in-flight behavior irks them most, from the irritating (think unruly, pint-sized seat kickers) to the truly offensive (we’re looking at you, fast foodies).

The Joys and Trials of Living Overseas Oct 20, 2017

The definition of "expat" is not as clear-cut as it may first appear—and that becomes, well, very clear in the opening minutes of this episode of Travelogue. What separates, for example, an expat from an immigrant? Is it all about transience versus permanence, or are there other, less straightforward distinctions at play? Whatever the difference, there is a common thread that unites anyone who has lived away from "home," a word that also has its own multiple layers of meaning. This week, we dive deep into what motivates people to settle down, even temporarily, halfway around the world; explore the challenges of joining or creating a community once abroad; and share the unexpected joys that can be found in newness.

How to Travel With Your Parents and Stay Sane Oct 13, 2017

We love our parents—and some of us ARE parents—but it's not always easy traveling with your folks. It could be a matter of speed: You want to go heli-skiing in Alaska; they'd prefer to cruise there. Maybe it's a difference in price point, or a question of who pays for what. Should adult children take their parents on vacation, as a thank you for all those years of Disney trips? Or should you split the bill evenly? There's also the question of trip planning: Should one person be in charge, and is it automatically Mom and Dad? It was in the past! Or is it the family member with the youngest child, and therefore, the most restrictions? In this week's Travelogue podcast, we get personal, sharing tried-and-true ways to make family travel something to look forward to every year.

When You Should Hire a Local Guide Oct 06, 2017

We'd like to think we can plan everything on our own: every hotel room, every cross-cultural interaction, every landmark tour, every local hole-in-the-wall dinner... But if we're really, really honest, even Condé Nast Traveler's editors can admit that sometimes we need some help.

Where We'd Have Our Last Meal Sep 29, 2017

There's no doubt a single meal can make a vacation memorable—but what makes a meal unforgettable? Is it really just about what it does to your taste buds, or the quality of the ingredients? Or does greatness extend beyond the palate: Is it also the setting; the conversations you have; the newness of not only a taste, but also a sight, a sound, a smell? On this week's edition of Travelogue we dissect the role of food as a means of exploration—an entry point into new cultures and multi-sensory experiences.

Where to Travel This Fall Sep 22, 2017

R.I.P. Summer 2017. We're chasing summer to the southern hemisphere and exploring America's greatest weekender cities this fall.

Why Summer Vacations Are the Best Kind Sep 15, 2017

While we'd never claim that you should only travel during a single season of the year, there's something especially alluring about summer vacations. Maybe it's grade-school nostalgia or the temptation of skipping town on a Summer Friday, but whatever the reason, the results speak for themselves. Just look at the *Condé Nast Traveler* team: This summer, we traveled a whole lot around the country and the world, and for this episode of our podcast we give you some itineraries to copy and file away—or even put into action as the season comes to a close.

Is It Ethical to Visit North Korea? Sep 08, 2017

Should Western tourists visit North Korea? Is it an act of voyeurism, or can tourism actually help the country? Does cultural diplomacy outweigh the risk of life? Would you go, if given the opportunity? Listen to this week's podcast and let us know what you think on Facebook and Twitter.

Is Travel Better Now Than It Was 30 Years Ago? Sep 01, 2017

In honor of Condé Nast Traveler's 30th anniversary, we're delving into some of the ways travel has changed over the last three decades.

Why We Travel to Be Near Water Aug 25, 2017

We dive deep into how water plays a part in our travel lives and the physical and psychological benefits of spending time around oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Secrets of a Pilot and a Flight Attendant Aug 18, 2017

We sat down with a veteran pilot and former flight attendant to ask all our burning questions about what actually goes on at 30,000 feet.

Why Terrorism Won’t Stop Us from Traveling Aug 11, 2017

In the past year, suicide bombers and terrorist groups have targeted specific areas—and arenas—that gave them a world stage and a chance to strike travel at its heart. But how does terrorism affect travel? And what do we do, as travelers, when it's a threat that's hard to ignore?

The Evolution of Cruises Aug 04, 2017

Nowadays, cruising can mean a week of fine dining on the high seas; a Disney-themed sailing along the Panama Canal; or even an opportunity to travel to the North Pole. It’s no wonder, then, that the number of people choosing to cruise has surged. It’s also the reason why we’ve decided to dedicate this week’s podcast—and a lot of this past month—to all things cruise-related.

Travel Myths You’ve Been Tricked Into Believing Jul 28, 2017

In addition to the there-is-one-best-time-to-book-a-flight fallacy, we dive into the other travel myths out there that can—and should—be put to rest.

How to Make the Best of Solo Travel Jul 21, 2017

Sorry, all you Eat, Pray, Love diehards out there—turns out, solo travel isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, earthshaking epiphanies, and whirlwind romances. On this week’s travelogue podcast, Traveler editors dish about their solo travel experiences—the good, the bad, and the very awkward—and whether the prospect of traveling by ourselves, whether for a business trip, or a reunion-gone-bust, killed the excitement around time spent away.

Everything We Love and Hate About Home Shares Jul 14, 2017

There are so many things to love about Airbnb and its competitors: the price point, the flexibility, the immediate access to a culture. But, there are a few things some frequent travelers take issue with—sleeping in a stranger's sheets to start. Our complicated feelings regarding Airbnb have been behind many a debate among Traveler's editors. But in a world where home shares are drawing many travelers away from hotels, we used this week's episode of Travelogue to dig in to who should be using Airbnb and why.

Is There Such a Thing as Too Much Travel? Jul 07, 2017

We've said it before: Travel can be addicting. But, is there a point where travel becomes a competition for bragging rights and a life constantly on the move starts to eat away at any semblance of normalcy or stability—and, if so, is that a bad thing? This week, we talked with two of the world's most traveled men about their best trips, their scariest experiences (what would you do as a tourist in Tehran when the Iranian Revolution hit in 1979?), and why they continue to travel with such urgency.

So You Want to Go to Asia Jun 30, 2017

Back in January, we set ourselves up for what quickly proved to be an impossible task: Give a 45-minute run-through of all things Asia over the course of a single episode of our podcast, Travelogue. We knew it as we were wrapping up, but with some extra motivation from one communicative Twitter user (we really do love hearing from you), it became clear that a "part two" was desperately needed. So, on this episode of Travelogue, we cover some of the ground we didn't get to last time, and came to realize, inevitably, that we could talk about this massively expansive and beautifully diverse continent for hours—if not days.

How Travel Can Scientifically Change Your Life Jun 23, 2017

Does travel net out to mostly good effects on our minds and bodies? Or can we get a stronger brain by just exploring our own cities? This week, we dive deep into the science of travel and social interaction to see if we can live longer and be smarter just by hopping on a flight.

How to Spend Your Credit Card Points Jun 16, 2017

If you listened to Travelogue a few weeks ago, we gave you all the intel on how to get airline miles and now, we've got a crash course in how to spend them. Sure, credit card companies often promote redeeming for cash as the simplest way to turn your spending into free money, but you can do more—a lot more. Trading in those points for an amazing trip requires only a little knowledge and flexibility. You've just got to know when and where to look. Looking for more info? Listen up.

Why Climate Change Is Actually Relevant to Travel Jun 09, 2017

Pop quiz: What do the Great Barrier Reef, the Alps, Venice, and Napa Valley have in common? They're all buckling under a force that is threatening their very existence—climate change. In light of the news that the U.S. government has decided to pull out of the Paris Agreement, the one global accord aiming to stem greenhouse gas emissions that are causing climate change, we at Condé Nast Traveler felt it appropriate to tackle one question head-on: What is our duty, as travelers, to make sure that our islands, snow-capped mountains, and glaciers stick around long enough for our grandchildren—or even our children—to enjoy them?

Sick on Vacation: Editors Share Their Horror Stories Jun 02, 2017

We share our own harrowing tales of health emergencies on the road—and what we learned from them. There are stories of organ-destroying parasites, plane rides in which we spent more time in the lavatory than in our seats, and references to at least two different words that end with "rhea". It gets graphic, it gets funny, it gets scary. Brace yourselves.

Where to Start with Frequent Flier Miles May 26, 2017

If you've made it this far, you know something about frequent flier miles—or at least that you don't know much. Tales of road warriors whizzing about the skies, sipping free champagne, and enjoying automatic upgrades are enough to make you want to get into the game. Where to start can feel daunting—but it doesn't have to be.

How to Plan a Successful Group Trip May 19, 2017

Group travel. Once upon a time, that simple phrase sent shivers down these Traveler editors’ spines. But this week, we decided to put our heads together and explore how to have an enjoyable group trip (from bachelorette and bachelor parties to college reunions) and make it home on speaking terms. We weighed up what ingredients make for a top-notch group travel destination when there's five, six or even ten of you to please (turns out, Nashville is pretty much perfect) and discuss the tips and life lessons we've picked up along the way.

The New (Terrible) Normal of Flying May 12, 2017

A man dragged off an overbooked United flight, a woman accidentally sent to San Francisco instead of Paris, and an all-out brawl at Fort Lauderdale airport due to a string of cancellations: It's been a rough couple of months for air travel. And here's the thing—even we, well-versed in travel hacks, sometimes reach wits' end in the emotional maelstrom that is air travel. On this week's episode of Travelogue, the podcast of Condé Nast Traveler, we tell those stories; grapple with the new, troubling normal of airport stress; and share what we've learned along the way. Believe it or not, sometimes even the worst situations can be avoided—or, at least, mitigated—with a little savvy and kindness.

Where to Go for Summer 2017 May 05, 2017

Planning summer travel is exciting—but it can also be daunting. Do you stay domestic or opt for an adventure further afield? Bite the bullet and book a two week beach holiday or savor those limited vacation days and venture out on a series of weekend getaways? And how, when destinations in the Northern Hemisphere have hit peak tourist season, do you manage to find the best deals? On this week's episode of Travelogue, we answer those questions and break down the best places to go this summer.

Does Anyone Use Guidebooks Anymore? Apr 28, 2017

With an overload of information flooding our social media feeds, we return to an old standard—the guidebook—to see how it's faring in the 21st century. This week, we chatted (and argued a little) with Andy Steves, son of famed guidebook writer Rick Steves and a millennial travel guide writer in his own right; and contributor Mark Ellwood, who got his start writing a guidebook for New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and upstate New York. Now it's your turn to answer our question: do you even use a guidebook anymore?

How to Plan a Trip to Cuba Apr 21, 2017

How do you plan a trip to a country where the rules keep changing? And once you're in Cuba, can you use U.S. credit cards? Is there actually Wi-Fi? Do you need to speak Spanish? Are the hotels any good, or should you Airbnb? How do you fly there? These are typical travel questions, but this isn't your typical holiday, so it's best to be as well prepared as possible before you go. It's a challenge—but that's where we come in.

Where to Visit Before Your Friends Do Apr 14, 2017

At what point can a destination be deemed "emerging"? After all, a place that one intrepid traveler has been visiting for years might seem like the equivalent of Timbuktu to someone else. And how exactly does that transformation into the next hotspot (see: Berlin, Iceland) actually happen? These are just a few of the questions we’ve been asking as we determine where our most adventurous friends are going now—and what we’re missing out on.

How to Plan the Perfect Honeymoon Apr 07, 2017

Should you honeymoon right after the wedding, or wait? Stay close to home, or head somewhere far-flung? Traveler editors debate. Along the way, we touch on the benefits of time apart during a honeymoon, why it pays to look at the exchange rate, things married members of team Traveler wish they had known before planning their own honeymoons, and ways to save money on planning yours. The rest? Well, you'll just have to listen.

Why 2017 Is Africa's Year Mar 31, 2017

Last year, we chatted with Traveler editors about how and why you should be planning a trip to Africa. But even since then, there's been new airport and hotel openings, making country-hopping essential (and easy). And this isn't just a safari-fest. You can go to Dakar to surf. Or Addis Ababa for a historical pilgrimage and Italian coffee shops frozen in time. You may have to work a little harder for moments of travel joy, but when you find them they're something altogether authentic.

Where to Travel This Spring Mar 24, 2017

Ah, spring. The mere word stirs lusts of all kinds in our winter-shriveled hearts — including wanderlust. Time to break out of our frostbound caves and explore! Refresh! Renew! Or at least baste ourselves poolside in vitamin D. For some of us, it's an occasion to get the ya-yas out. For others — particularly parents — it's time to turn the lemons of obligatory school vacation into the lemonade of a family getaway. Either way, where to go? At Traveler, we're partial to lesser-trod paths this time of year. It's our chance to take risks on parts unknown, especially if they're far from the crowds — and more especially still if they offer relative value. This week, we'll give you suggestions for every type of trip, from urban to beach to late-season skiing and more. Listen on!

How Women Are Changing the Travel Industry Mar 17, 2017

In a trend that seems more organic than millennial bleisure, the travel industry is catering to women more and more, in ways that work and ways that... don't. Female guides teaching how to rock climb and mountain bike? We're on board with that—hello, REI Adventures and Adventure Women. Women's hotel floors that tout glossy mags, fresh flowers? Age limits on women flight attendants, and none for men? That's a hell no. Women-only airline seats? Tune in to found out what we really think. Plus, listen to hear a preview of the exciting stories we're almost ready to unveil.

Does the Travel Industry Actually 'Get' Millennials? Mar 10, 2017

What do millennials want? It's the marketers' Holy Grail, as they seek to understand that key demographic of digitally-obsessed, stereotypically self-important 20-somethings who have only the vaguest memories of phone books and dial-up Internet. On this edition of Travelogue, Condé Nast Traveler's weekly podcast, we take a look at the travel industry—the airlines, hotels, and cheeky start-ups—as they try to tap the millennial market. Our question: Is it working?

Air Rage: Why Are There So Many Fights on Planes? Mar 03, 2017

"Bad Behavior On Planes Is Getting Worse," says the International Air Transport Association (IATA)—not that the skies have ever been bastions of mannerly calm. Tight spaces, vanishing perks, and packed routes mean shortened tempers. Politics don't help: After both Brexit and the 2016 U.S. election there were spikes in incidents of in-air conflict among passengers. Where does the anger come from, and what about cruising at 30,000 feet brings it out of us? Is anyone actually entitled to the arm rest? What happens when fights erupt mid-flight? Who's in charge up there, and what are the consequences for those involved? This week, we get fired up about airbound anger management.

Why the World's Top Airlines Are Going Budget Feb 24, 2017

It's been a busy week for budget travel. This week alone, American and United began selling unbundled basic economy tickets, Norwegian announced $65 flights between Europe and the East Coast, and Air France-KLM got approval to create a new lower-cost airline in Europe. But, with many of these low-cost airlines not being low-cost after all, with added fees for checked bags, carry-on bags, seat assignments, food, and more, we sat down to tackle whether or not these fares are a real deal. In the end? "It depends."

What Is a Travel Specialist, Anyway? Feb 17, 2017

Travel agents—they do, in fact, still exist: living, breathing trip planners who can help you find the best hotel for your honeymoon, the right family safari, or just a great place to vacation when time and inspiration are lacking. The best can even get you a room upgrade or a credit for dinner. What's the difference, though, between a travel agent and a travel specialist? The secret's in the "special," of course: someone with in-depth knowledge of a city, region, or style of travel. A cruise guru. A Caribbean savant. An expert in the ever-changing rules of Cuba travel. But how do you find the right one? How do you know what to ask, or expect? This week, we explain what these mysterious beasts really are, when you should call one for help, and how to find someone who won't have you chasing an umbrella across the piazza.

Making Sense of Trump's Travel Ban Feb 10, 2017

Since January 27, the less-than-sexy minutiae of immigration policy and the alphabet soup of visa classes have been headline makers thanks to President Trump's executive order on immigration, which has come to be called, simply, "the travel ban." It's a subject dear to our hearts, given its profound and far-reaching effect on border crossings—and unless you're willing to spend a lot of time reading court papers, it can be a challenge to understand. So we decided to dive in and do a play-by-play of how we got to this point and what it actually means for travelers—those directly affected by the ruling, and the trickle-down effect to other parts of the travel industry— knowing full well that news could (and, it turned out, did) break *during* the taping of the podcast.

How to Get the Best Flight Every Single Time Feb 04, 2017

One of the questions we get most often at Condé Nast Traveler is how to get the best deal for the next place you're going. Should you buy on a specific day? From a specific airline? On a specific browser? Sadly, there's no catch-all answer to this very old question (though recent data points to Sunday as one of the best days to buy). Instead, we look at the steps you should take to get the best price on your ticket every single time—including price trackers, points hackers, airport hubs, and codeshare partners. We also look at whether money should really be your primary consideration, and debate the pros and cons of hidden-city ticketing. The rest? Well, you'll just have to listen.

How to Plan Your First Trip to Asia Jan 27, 2017

How do you fit a comprehensive primer on traveling to Asia into a 45-minute discussion? You don't. We know. We tried. So consider this part 1. In which, in less time than it takes to get through a TSA line, we take you to Japan to see why Tokyo and Kyoto took the number one and two spots in our 2016 Readers' Choice Awards; to Thailand, where you'll get quality beach time plus the serenity of Chiang Mai's wooded foothills; on an Indonesian island hop (with an impassioned defense of Bali's resilient magic); and on a single-trip sprint through Hong Kong, Macau, Bangkok and more—with enough time left over to eat your way through Singapore's hawker centers. We drop a few surprises on the way—for instance, that Japan is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and that you can visit the Great Wall on a six-hour Beijing layover. And that Singapore is home to the cheapest Michelin-star dish on earth. Not covered? The Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, Vietnam, Central Asia, or roughly 80 percent of the continent. So, yeah: we'll be back for part 2.

Where the Sun Shines in Winter Jan 20, 2017

This time of year many of us in the Northern Hemisphere find ourselves deep in a dark, dreary winter, yearning for an escape to somewhere we can get a healthy dose of vitamin D. On this episode, we talk about sunny destinations ripe for escapes—some that are classics, like Hawaii and the British Virgin Islands, and others that may give you pause (North Pole? North Pole!). So whether you're looking for a Zika-free destination, beaches for a digital detox, or even a winter cruise out of the path of polar vortexes, we've got you covered.

How to Pick the Ultimate Souvenir Jan 14, 2017

Here at Traveler, we like nothing more than swapping souvenir stories. Maybe it’s a menu stolen from an unforgettable restaurant, or a one-of-a-kind feathered headpiece from Brazil. Doesn’t matter whether it cost half our rent or just a few cents, all we ask is that it carries us back to a time, a place, or an experience. Sometimes it’s a unique piece of jewelry; other times, it’s something that satisfies the collector in us, like a postcard or a refrigerator magnet. And every now and then, the most cherished memento is something edible—a European candy bar, say, or a tin of exotic tea. We’ll talk about all this and more, including how to safely pack your haul for the journey home, or check whether that overseas delicacy is considered illegal here in the United States.

Travel Trends Coming in 2017 Jan 06, 2017

In this week's edition, we dive even deeper into what travelers can expect in 2017. Think passport changes, new airport security shortcuts, more (and more) fare classes on airplanes, the rise of low-cost, long-haul flights, and—yep—how Trump could affect travel.

Where to Travel in 2017 Dec 30, 2016

It's that time again: to say goodbye (and, in this case, good riddance) to the year behind us, and to gaze forward into the one to come. At Traveler, that means lining up our travel list for 2017. In our last podcast of 2016, we look at airline trends, new hotel openings, and destinations on the rise to help you firm up your travel plans for the new year. Trying to get into the great outdoors? Take a trip north to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday (hint: the country's national parks are free all year). If cities are your jam, we've got classics (hi, Tokyo) and some spots that you—and thousands of other travelers—might not have thought of (we'll see you in Kigali). Have a listen as we dive deep into all things 2017, and tweet us the places that are on your list but didn't make ours.

2016: The Year in Travel Dec 23, 2016

Travel is often unpredictable—weather pops up from nowhere, flights get delayed, destinations turn out to be ... not what you expected. But making educated predictions about travel is kind of our business here at Conde Nast Traveler. As the year comes to an end, we're looking back at what we believed would happen in the world of travel in 2016, and assessing where we went right—and where we got it wrong. From the changes we knew were coming (hello, Cuba!), to the events that could be counted on to make a splash (the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro), to ones we never could have anticipated (boo, Zika!), here's our accounting of the year that was. And since it's never too early to map out all of your 2017 travels, we have some friendly advice: go to Brussels. It's lovely, and they need it.

Crystal Cruises Takes to the ... Sky? Dec 16, 2016

These days, brand expansion isn't just a trend—it's the way to make sure a company not only lasts, but creates a legacy for years to come. This week, special guest Edie Rodriguez, CEO of Crystal, which has parlayed its upscale ocean cruises into a first-of-its-kind "air cruise," kicks off a look at some of the most interesting travel brand expansions coming in 2017 and beyond, including the Four Seasons hotel group getting a custom (and extremely luxe, of course) private jet, and home goods companies like West Elm and Restoration Hardware skipping the middleman to put their own shoppable products into branded hotels.

Would You Travel for Booze? Dec 10, 2016

Travelers are developing a taste for tipple-fueled journeys, whether that's a visit to a whisky distillery in the Scottish highlands, a stopover at Melbourne’s best cocktail bar, or a day spent wandering Bordeaux’s brand new Cité du Vin. So this week, we at Travelogue looks at how, why, and when these boozy pilgrimages began—and suggest, of course, a few worthwhile journeys. Why does the exact same bottle of rosé taste so much more delicious on the terrace of a Provençal bistro than it does on your back porch at home? Where are the best cities in the world to drink right now? (Hint: three of the four are right here stateside.) And just how good, really, are celebrity ventures like those from George Clooney and Sammy Hagar? We'll take on all this, plus interview Cameron Mackenzie, head distiller of Australia’s Four Pillars, one of the more intriguing new boutique ginsmiths Down Under.

The Best Travel Gear of 2016 Dec 02, 2016

What was the one travel-related item that rocked your world this year? We asked four of our nerdiest editors to come up with an answer, and come prepared to defend it. You'll have to listen to get the full story. Sneak peek: someone cheated and picked two; someone else droned on about ... well, drones; and a few others got trapped in the age-old debate of form versus function. It's been a great year for travel tech, after all. In the end, though, we came up with five ultimate items that most travelers could probably live without—like a 360 camera in the age of the selfie stick—but shouldn't. Have a favorite piece of gear that changed the way you traveled in 2016? Tweet us your argument at @cntraveler, 140 characters or less (gifs encouraged). No cheating!

The Future of Travel Is Fast, Comfy, and A Little Bit Frightening Nov 25, 2016

The evolution of travel tech has never been faster, more exciting, or more bewildering than it is right now. So we partnered with our friends at Wired to look at how far we've come in the last ten years, and where we might be headed in the next ten. Wired's Jason Kehe joins us to talk about the technologies, big and small, that are changing how we travel, whether in bold, game-changing concepts like the Hyperloop or suborbital flight, or in smaller-scale advances already making our travel lives better like new security procedures that move us through airports with less hassle, yet also more safely; or apps that do the planning for us, with or without a little help from our friends. And, yes, of course, like robots.

How to Make the Most of Your Layover Nov 18, 2016

Layovers used to mean long, boring waits in the airport, trying to nap in an uncomfortable chair, overpaying for Wi-Fi, and eating reheated sandwiches from the only restaurant open. But these days, airlines are turning those layovers into stopovers, giving travelers an easy way to explore a second city for a few days on the way to or from their primary destination. This week, we talk to Birkir Hólm Guðnason, CEO of Icelandair, whose free 3-7 day layovers in Reykjavik not only invented the airline-sponsored stayover program but turned Iceland from unknown city into major world destination. He tells us how a volcanic eruption ended up being great for tourism, gives us tips on heli-skiing, and weighs in on the ever-pressing question of whether you should visit the Blue Lagoon.

Where to Travel This Winter Nov 11, 2016

'Tis the season once more: time to pack up and skip town to huddle around a fire with family, mulled wine in hand, doing your best to avoid any talk of politics—or, you know, take a beach vacation to Australia. This week we're all about winter travel, as we debate whether thick sweaters and snowfall are a must and discuss destinations both expected (European Christmas markets, anyone?) and under-appreciated (hint: there's more than one safari season). Plus, a reminder about why now, in the face of so much political division and anxiety, travel is so important. Oh, and don't you think it's about time you double-checked that passport expiration date?

How to Stay Sane on A Family Vacation Nov 04, 2016

The depths of autumn are here, and that means the holidays soon will be too. Many of us will hit the road for vacations with extended family, whether in a gathering at a relative's house or on a group trip out in the world. And *that* means our hearts are just now filling with joy — and terror. Because when families and travel come together, *complications* ensue. Luckily, we're committed to helping you not just keep it sane, but actually have fun together. (Hint: "together" probably shouldn't always mean "in the same room at the same time.") How should you decide where to go, or manage multifamily budgets? How does one arrange a dinner date for 12? Can the octogenarians make peace with the pre-teens, and can social media—heavens help us—really keep us in touch? We'll answer all these questions and more.

Why You Should Visit London Now (And What to Do When You Get There) Oct 29, 2016

One of the finest times to visit London is that golden week between Christmas and New Year’s, where the department stores sparkle and the 65-foot Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square takes center stage. What’s more, there’s never been a cheaper time to book, with the pound at 168-year lows against the dollar. So this week we talk about all things London, courtesy of two born-and-bred Londoners who also happen to be *Condé Nast Traveler* editors. We tell you where to get the best Indian food, how to live out your very own *Downton Abbey*-esque shopping experience, and where to find one of the best views of the city. Whether you’re aching to take in the best of London’s museums and department stores or eat top-class ceviche in Soho before bar hopping in gritty Dalston, we’ve got you covered.

The World's Best: Readers' Choice Awards 2016 Oct 22, 2016

This week, Travelogue turns 1! To celebrate, we go deep on this year's just-released Readers' Choice Awards, a comprehensive list of our readers' favorite cities, hotels, resorts, airlines, and more. In addition to covering the results, we take you behind the scenes on the voting process, how we weed out cheaters, and the global travel trends we're seeing, like the rise of Airbnb and the influence of Google Translate. And, of course, we'll tell you which hotels and resorts are giving us a bad case of #travelenvy (hello Cuixmala. And Sant Francesc. And Ballyfin Demesne.) And that's just the beginning! Join the party, then tweet us your own faves @cntraveler.

Should You Ever Boycott Travel? Oct 14, 2016

This week, TripAdvisor announced it will no longer sell tickets to animal-based attractions deemed cruel or that involve endangered species. But is this enough—should we even participate in activities where elephants, dolphins, or other wild creatures are domesticated expressly for our amusement? We talk about ethical travel, including the moral maze of slum tourism—can you take a walking tour of Rio’s favelas in good conscience? Is there a difference between boycotting a dictatorship like North Korea and a democracy with a controversial leader, like the Philippines' pugnacious, spat-prone Rodrigo Duterte? And is it reprehensible to require clean towels and sheets every day in a hotel, or fly without investing in a carbon offset program? Just how much effort can—or should—we make?

Where to Travel This Fall Oct 07, 2016

Leaves are turning, the air is crisp, everything's suddenly pumpkin-flavored, and—most importantly—peak season is over, so airfares are down. Time to travel. This week we're all about autumn, and we've got you covered no matter your speed. Looking for a Halloween party? We suggest New Orleans, where the celebration's second only to Mardi Gras. Planning some leaf peeping? Consider the West Coast. Really. We also talk about why Paris should be on the list for anyone who loves indie rock or chocolate; wax nostalgic about a secret artistic wonderland in the Japanese archipelago; and wonder aloud why San Francisco's weather this time of the year is so darn pleasant. (But seriously, meteorologists: Why?) We hope you've still got some space on your bucket list.

Secrets of a Hotel Inspector Sep 30, 2016

Imagine getting paid to travel to the world's most luxurious hotels, or eat in the finest restaurants, perhaps taking a five star cruise to the Antarctic. Even better, once you finish the trip, your opinion is solicited—and you know for certain that your ratings and reviews will be read, and trusted, by the most important people. This week, we talk with Jim Coyle of New York's Coyle Hospitality, whose team of inspecting agents are the hospitality world's answer to secret shoppers.

How to Take the Stress Out of Family Travel Sep 23, 2016

Vacationing parents need to spend time with their kids, but they also need time for themselves, whether to decompress from busy work schedules or to experience a place as adults. This week, in the third installment of our four-part series "Crazy Travel Jobs We Can't Believe Exist," we talk to Michaela Drake, whose company, My Travelling Nanny, has over 150 experienced, screened, and vetted childcare pros all over the world. You can book them for a whole vacation or, in a pinch, just for a night. She can even find you a combination nanny-swim instructor for poolside lessons. Tune in and learn how to keep your family vacation an actual vacation!

Would You Hire a Pro to Photograph Your Vacation? Sep 16, 2016

How many times have you come back from a once-in-a-lifetime trip only to realize your photos were blurry, or maybe that, because you'd taken all of them, you weren't actually *in* any? These were the problemsNicole Smith was trying to solve when she founded Flytographer, a company that connects travelers with local photographers so vacationing couples and families can come back with professional-level, Instagram-envy-provoking photos. Nicole joins us this week to talk about the phenomenon of pro vacation photography, as well as the evolving role of photos in our traveling lives.

Crazy Travel Jobs: The Man Who Plans Seven-Figure Vacation Adventures Sep 10, 2016

Round-the-world honeymoons spent on private islands, superyachts, and private jets; a Greek Odyssey (capital 'O', like the one that features the Minotaur, Cyclops, and Medusa) to reawaken your kids’ imagination; and yes, even staged pirate battles involving hundreds of cast members and elaborate blockbuster-level sets—these are the kind of seven-figure journeys (don’t you dare call them “packages”)—in which Based On a True Story, a VIP luxury travel company for the ultra-wealthy, specializes. This week, for the first episode in our month-long series “Crazy Travel Jobs We Can’t Believe Exist,” we talk to Niel Fox, Based on a True Story's founder, about some of the most elaborate, extravagant, and involved experiences he’s put together for his clients—Icelandic trolls and all.

How to Find Cheap Flights (And Change Your Life) Sep 02, 2016

What if you could go on a trip to Europe for less than it costs to buy groceries for the week? Self-identified "obsessive" Scott Keyes spends hours scouring airline websites to find great flight deals—so you don't have to. In this week's podcast, the founder of scottscheapflights.com drops by to drop science on how to find the best deals, why flexibility is everything in travel, and how the destinations you never planned to visit often end up being the most exciting.

Are These Actually the Friendliest Cities in the World? Aug 26, 2016

Every August, we release what's become one of our most shared, discussed, and controversial Readers' Choice lists: the friendliest and unfriendliest cities in the U.S. and in the world. On this week's podcast, we dissect the lists and try to understand what our readers mean by "friendly" and "unfriendly." Do the locals smile and say "hi"? Do they point you in the right direction? Or is it more about how easy the city is to navigate, how safe it feels, how convenient things are? Listen and let us know what you think.

Finding the Perfect Cruise (Even If You Hate Cruises) Aug 19, 2016

The cruising game has changed, almost entirely for the better. So this week, we bring everything you need to find the perfect cruise: small ships vs large; how to customize; Caribbean cruises vs Mediterranean; how a cruise can be the perfect multi-generational family vacation; and more. Consider it your all-inclusive insider's guide to cruising today.

What to Do When Your Flight Plans Fall Apart Aug 12, 2016

In the aftermath of Delta’s computer failures, we chat with our aviation expert about how mass cancellations can happen in the 21st century, and how you can still get to your destination ASAP when the system seems to be against you.

How the Summer Olympics Will Change Rio Aug 05, 2016

Rio de Janeiro: It’s on everyone’s mind right now, thanks to a Zika- and Olympics-fueled buzz. But while the Summer Olympics may last for the next 17 days, its affect on Rio, a city finally growing up from its status as the ultimate beach town, is yet to be seen.

Best Places for a Late-Summer Getaway Jul 22, 2016

Hard to believe we're already thinking about the end of summer, when it seems like it only just started. But we are—and the truth is, there are some places (like the Pacific Northwest) where the best weather's just getting started, and others where the deals are unbeatable (like London and Hong Kong). We take a look at the best of both, and tell you where you should be booking that long weekend between now and late September.

Why You Should Travel to Africa Now Jul 15, 2016

East-African safaris have been a bucket list staple for generations. And while you should still take one—in many ways they're better than ever—they're far from the only kind of African trip you should be planning these days. This week our editors tell you where to go, when to go, and what to look for when you're there, from surfing to wine tasting to, yes, a great safari.

Everything You Need to Know About Rental Cars Jul 08, 2016

It's the summer of the Great American Road Trip, with gas prices at an 11-year low and some 36 million Americans taking advantage of it—many of them in rental cars. Do you know what to do if you're in an accident in a rental car? Or what kind of insurance to get, if any? Should you pre-pay for gas? What rental car company should you go to for the best deal—or if you want a luxury ride through California wine country? Here's what you need to know if you're renting at home or abroad.

7 Reasons We Hate to Love Lists Jul 01, 2016

Lists are everywhere, right? We hate them, but we can't get enough of them. Best-of lists; worst-of lists; what-to-do lists and what-not-to-do lists. This week Bon Appetit's Andrew Knowlton and Epicurious's Matt Duckor join Condé Nast Traveler's Becca Misner to talk about how lists are made in the travel and food worlds, what we love about them, what we don't like quite so much, and why we think they're here to stay.

Travel Disasters—And How to Survive Them Jun 24, 2016

Even the pros can't escape an insanely long TSA line, getting stuck on the tarmac for hours, a tropical flood or a rare insect fever. This week we confess the travel disasters we've endured, how we got through them, and why we wouldn't trade them in.

Chef Massimo Bottura of Italy's Osteria Francescana Jun 17, 2016

This week, we talk to chef Massimo Bottura, whose restaurant, Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy, was just awarded the number one spot on the annual World's 50 Best Restaurants list. Chef Bottura tells us all about his hometown of Modena, his mind-bending approach to food, his passions for art and travel, and what it's like to come in first at the biggest food party of the year.

The Tech You Should Pack This Summer Jun 10, 2016

All the gear you should be packing when you hit the road this season, from a "life-proof" camera to the latest crop of selfie-snapping drones, including one that "boomerangs" when you fling it from your wrist; from a device that turns your cell phone into a walkie-talkie to tiny trackers for your keys and luggage (and kids?); from an artificial-intelligence planner bot to the latest in tablets on the high end and the low.

Europe Gone Wild: Summer Travel in the Old Country Jun 03, 2016

It's summer; time to visit Europe! Except that lately, Europe seems to have gone bonkers—even more than usual. Strikes and fuel shortages in France; flooding in France and Germany; travel advisories and the Brexit vote. This week, we break down news from the Old Country, and offer suggestions on how to prepare for inconveniences both standard and off-the-menu. We also reminisce on some of our favorite reasons to go, and tell you why we think it's worth it, even if there's a bit of frustration along the way.

Where to Travel This Summer May 27, 2016

We're celebrating the arrival of the summer travel season with our not-so-short list of the best places to go. Whatever kind of trip you're looking for, we've got it covered: surprisingly economical standbys like Europe; domestic journeys from the classic to the up-and-coming; far-flung excursions through the Arctic and Nepal; the ultimate National Parks Road Trip; and great new spots to get pampered in South Africa and Oman. With great deals on the road or in the air, this summer's the time to get gone.

TSA Lines: Why They're So Long, and What You Can Do About It May 20, 2016

Our excitement for the coming summer travel season hit a long, ugly, bureaucratic wall last week, in the form of soul-crushing lines at TSA checkpoints in airports across the country. Aviation correspondent Barbara Peterson drops by to talk about the causes of the insanity, what the government (and airlines) are doing about it, and whether or not U.S. airports threatening to replace the TSA can actually get away with it.

What Your Hotel Concierge Really Thinks About You May 13, 2016

Concierges see and hear it all, from the hilarious to the heartwarming. This week we chat with comic ex-concierges Anna Drezen and Todd Dakotah Briscoe, authors of the blog-turned-book How May We Hate You: Notes from the Concierge Desk, for the scoop on what it's really like to man the front line of travel. What do concierges really want from guests? Are kickbacks real? When should you tip, and how much? And which things should you just Google yourself?

A Pan Am Flight Attendant on Air Travel's Golden Age May 06, 2016

It's in our fantasies as we shuffle the TSA line dropping belts and shoes into buckets, or jam ourselves between the iron-maiden-esque armrests of a middle seat: a vision of bygone days when airline crews were uniformly charming and gorgeous, the meals opulent, and "inflight-entertainment" meant heading to the lounge for a smoke and a cocktail. On today's podcast, we revisit those days with someone who actually lived through them as special guest Linda Joyce, who worked as a Pan Am stewardess in the '60s and '70s, drops by to give us the inside scoop on what it was really like to fly during the Golden Age of Air Travel.

Is Kickstarter the Future of Travel Gear? Apr 29, 2016

Kickstarter has become the go-to space for travel gear innovation, hosting crowdfunded campaigns for inflatable hoodies, bags that actually keep you organized, and a travel jacket that'll hold everything from your iPad to your in-flight cocktail. This week we’re joined by Johnathan Webster, whose uber-successful Kickstarter campaign raised more than half a million dollars to fund a suitcase/duffle hybrid that we can't wait to get our hands on. Johnathan shared his thoughts on the Kickstarter model, his design process, and why he thinks crowdfunding is the future of travel gear.

The Great American Road Trip Apr 22, 2016

Picture it: Windows down, a full tank of gas, and an endless expanse of highway in front of you—the road trip has remained a constant in the American psyche, and for some very good reasons. We talk about them with National Geographic photographer Jonathan Irish, who took a break from visiting all 59 American National Parks in 52 weeks to chat with us about what’s it’s like to be on the road (with an Airstream in tow) for a year, and which parks absolutely cannot be missed.

New Low-Cost Airlines to Europe, and Virgin America Gets Sold Apr 08, 2016

A few upstart European airlines have begun to offer mind-bogglingly cheap flights to Europe, cutting in on the big players' mindshare and making a play for younger travelers. Can it last? Will it change the transatlantic game? Air travel expert Barbara Peterson joins our panel to discuss. Plus, an exclusive on Richard Branson's reaction to this week's Virgin America sale.

Our Ultimate Travel Hacks Apr 01, 2016

This week, we hack travel for you. From booking to packing, points to luggage, curing jet lag to sleeping on planes — here are our secrets to lessening the pain of being on the road and getting more from your journey. Bonus: we take questions from our Facebook and Twitter fans and answer them during the podcast. It's almost like being there!

Secrets of a Flight Attendant Mar 25, 2016

This week, we talk with special guest "Lauren B" (Lauren Bushnell), winner of the just-concluded 20th season of "The Bachelor" and, as it happens, a professional flight attendant. Lauren gives us the inside scoop on what it's like to fly for a living, the secret signals of crew members, how to make a flight attendant your best friend, and where she and Ben will be headed next.

Airplane Etiquette: How to Behave at 30,000 Feet Mar 18, 2016

Prices have dropped; air travel's been democratized; the number of people flying's more than tripled in the last 30 years. Also, seats are smaller seats and lines are longer. MUCH longer. We spend more time than ever in tight spaces with our fellow humans. The results can be grim - anything from shouting matches to outright brawls. Whose job is it to preserve civility in the skies, and why does it seem so hard?

Zika Virus, Passport Renewals, TSA Checkpoints, Overhead Bins Jan 29, 2016

We take a deep dive on the story of the week, which could become the story of the year: Zika virus. The W.H.O. just sounded the alarm, travel advisories are in effect, and an action plan could come as early as next week. But what exactly *is* Zika virus, and how will it affect your travels this year? Plus, we look at the passport renewal crunch, the worst TSA checkpoints, and the psychological strain of overhead bins.

Domestic Travel: Editors' Dispatches Jan 22, 2016

It's been a busy season for travel in the U.S., with low gas prices and competitive airfares getting travelers out and about. Our editors are no exceptions. This week, we get their reports from recent journeys to Baltimore, San Francisco, Charleston, Palm Springs, and Pittsburgh.

Traveling With Kids Jan 15, 2016

What's it like to travel with kids? Digital Executive Editor Maura Walters, our most imminent parent, sits down with some seasoned veterans for a glimpse of what's to come, from the practical to the existential, the spiritual to the mechanical, babyhood to teenagerdom and maybe beyond. Why do we do it? Has it changed the way we travel? Has it changed the role of travel in our lives? And what are the secrets to navigating travel with kids as your companions?

New TSA Rules, Drowning Castles, and Other Travel News of the New Year Jan 10, 2016

The first week of 2016 has delivered a full slate of travel news: new TSA regulations on the IDs you can use to fly; bans on checked bags; haute couture monument restoration; Brazilian visa suspensions; the differences between men and women during turbulence; and historic Scottish castles falling victim to weather. We talk about all this and oh so much more.

The Year in Travel: A Look Back at 2015, And A Look Ahead to 2016 Jan 10, 2016

Happy New Year from Traveler! As the year turns, we look back at 2015—the events and trends, good and not-so-good, that passed through the travel world this year—and talk about which ones will stay and which ones will go. And we take a look forward to 2016, at the places we're expecting will get hot and hoping to visit.

AUSTRALIA 2016! Our Destination of the Year Jan 10, 2016

For the first time ever, we've named a Destination of the Year, and it's Australia. In this special edition of the podcast, a cast of thousands (well, OK: 8) explores just what it is that's making the land Down Under so special right now—and how you can get in on it.

Holiday Gift Guide for Travelers Dec 12, 2015

We're back! After a two-week hiatus, 'Travelogue' returns, just in time for the holidays. Five days into Hannukah and two weeks before Christmas, it's gift-giving season. What to get for the traveler in your life? We're here to tell you just that. From fashion to style to tech, from dressing to packing to keeping yourself charged up no matter how long your trip, these gift tips will get you through the season in style.

How to Survive Holiday Travel Nov 20, 2015

The week of Thanksgiving is the busiest week for U.S. travel in the entire year. The roads turn into logjams, the airports go full 'Hunger Games.' How can you cope? That's our subject this week. Join in for a look at what the season brings and the tricks and strategies you can use — not just to survive, but to thrive.

City of (Youthful) Angels Nov 14, 2015

This year, for the first time ever, Los Angeles was voted Best City in the U.S. among millennials in our Readers' Choice Awards survey. We take a look at the West Coast's resurgent pearl, with an eye toward what's forever beloved and what's changed in recent years to make it so appealing — especially for younger travelers.

New York, New York (Baby)! Nov 07, 2015

It's the Big Apple, home to some of the best food, music, shopping, and culture in the world — and home to Condé Nast Traveler, too. Love it or hate it, there's no getting past it. This year, you didn't try. New York City was chosen Best Big City in the U.S. in our annual Readers' Choice Awards Survey. So this week, we give our hometown her propers, with a roundtable on how the city's changing and what's great about it right now.

Hotels 2.0: The New Piazza Oct 30, 2015

Hotels have always been gathering places. But in recent years, the recipe has changed. Hotels like the Ace in New York and the Dean in Providence are making strong plays not just for out of towners, but for locals. And it's working. We'll talk about what's happening, where, and who's behind it.

Readers' Choice Awards: The Best in the World Oct 23, 2015

This week we talk about the just-released Readers' Choice Awards, our annual survey of popular opinion on the best hotels, resorts, islands, beaches, and much more. This year's survey was bigger and better than ever — and held a few surprises.

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