Traveling with AAA

The words “summer” and “vacation” have always gone together. Summer travel is certainly wonderful, but it’s not the only time to vacation. If you’re looking for great deals, fewer crowds, and more travel flexibility, then taking a trip during the winter might be right up your alley. Today, Angie Orth welcomes Chadner Navarro, a seasoned travel writer who has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, The Wall Street Journal, Food & Wine, and Vogue.com. As an off-peak traveler and ski enthusiast, he’s got some great advice to share about the best travel destinations for winter. You’ll hear what makes the winter months a great time to travel, and where you can expect to find the best deals. You’ll hear about unique destinations where you can enjoy warmer temperatures and the coolest spots for snow sports to satisfy your adventurous spirit. What You’ll Learn:(01:28) Why winter is a great time to travel(05:50) Fresh winter destination ideas(06:51) Where to find deals for winter travel(13:55) Less crowded ski destinations to explore(16:20) How climate change is affecting off-season travelConnect with Chadner Navarro:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chadner/X: https://twitter.com/chadnerConnect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Where are you celebrating New Year’s Eve this year?It’s a question that feels exciting and a bit nerve-racking at the same time. New Year’s Eve is both a beginning and an end. It’s bidding farewell to the year that’s passed, and welcoming the new one in the best way possible. Naturally, we want to celebrate in a place that feels special.Today, Angie Orth welcomes a pair of trusted travel experts to help you answer the big NYE questions. Lee Abbamonte has celebrated in some of the biggest and brightest cities in the U.S. and abroad, and Alexandra Baackes loves to explore how different cultures around the world ring in the new year. You’ll hear about unique celebrations in global destinations. You’ll get an honest rundown of what it’s like to party in some of the most famous and iconic New Year’s Eve events in the U.S. and abroad. And most importantly, you’ll discover the type of celebration that inspires you to solidify your New Year’s plans, whether you’re traveling to an exotic locale or keeping it local. What You’ll Learn:(02:22) How Australia makes New Year's Eve celebrations accessible for all bedtimes(03:54) Thoughts on those big-city celebration destinations(06:07) New Year's Eve advice for anyone trying to decide how to celebrate(08:16) Why you should leave room for the unexpected(11:48) A fun U.S. New Year's destination that feels off the big-party radarConnect with Lee Abbamonte:Website: https://www.leeabbamonte.com/Connect with Alexandra Baackes:Website: https://www.alexinwanderland.com/Connect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Holding on to the memories of the places we travel through souvenirs is an act of preservation. They are the physical manifestations of our travel experiences captured through the things we buy, collect, and even photograph along the way. Souvenirs are meaningful not only for ourselves, but they’re also a way of sharing those stories with others when we return home.Today, Angie Orth welcomes travel writer Rolf Potts. He has reported from more than seventy countries and six continents for publications including National Geographic Traveler, The New Yorker, Slate.com, the New York Times Magazine, and the Travel Channel. He is the author of Souvenir (Object Lessons), a book that explores the cultural history of travel souvenirs. You’ll learn the history of bringing objects home from travel journeys through the ages, and how souvenirs have evolved as access to travel has expanded and changed. You’ll hear about a Japanese-inspired tradition that imparts a deeper connection between the objects we choose and the people we gift them to, and you’ll learn how to be a more discerning shopper when it comes to selecting souvenirs. What You’ll Learn:(03:03) The definition of a souvenir(07:39) A deeper way to think about souvenirs(10:47) How photography has influenced our travel memories(14:57) Advice on choosing ethical, meaningful souvenirs(16:42) When to buy souvenirs on your tripConnect with Rolf Potts:https://rolfpotts.comhttps://www.instagram.com/rolfpotts/https://x.com/rolfpottshttps://www.facebook.com/rolf.pottsConnect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa https://clubadventures.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Where will you find yourself in 2026? Will you be sipping coffee in a 400-year-old cobblestone square? Watching ice canoe racers battle across a frozen river? Or perhaps waking at sunrise for wellness rituals in a city that celebrates the dawn?Whether you’re looking for centuries-old European charm, vibrant Asian street markets, or Australian coastal wonders, 2026 is the year for extraordinary international experiences in destinations that may not be on your radar yet.In this episode, host Angie Orth is back with Jim Benning, Editor-in-Chief of Westways, and Derrik Lang, Editor-in-Chief of AAA Explorer, for part two of their annual destination series. While part one explored the best domestic getaways, this episode ventures beyond borders to uncover five international destinations that are having major moments in the year ahead.You'll discover why Quebec City is more than just a winter wonderland, thanks to its year-round festivals and indigenous cultural centers, and how Guadalajara embraces mariachi and tequila culture. You’ll also hear why Umbria is considered Italy's “green heart,” why Hanoi's luxury hotel scene is booming, and how new direct flights are making Brisbane easier to reach than ever.What You’ll Learn:03:20 North America's most European-feeling destination11:30 Visiting the “most Mexican city in Mexico” 14:56 Italy's green heart: agritourism, wellness retreats, and the world's largest chocolate festival19:10 From backpackers paradise to emerging luxury destination21:58 Brisbane's wellness culture and the groundbreaking Ngaro track Going abroad in 2026? Tell us where you’re headed in the comments!Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

What will your next domestic getaway look like? Imagine arriving at a gleaming new airport terminal bathed in  California sunshine, stepping into a Midwestern city claiming its title as America's soccer capital, or  watching the birthplace of independence prepare for the celebration of a lifetime.2026 is shaping up to be  a milestone year, one  in which  extraordinary—yet often overlooked—destinations are rewriting their stories with billion-dollar renovations, world-class events, and experiences you won't want to miss.In this episode, host Angie Orth welcomes two AAA insiders who spend their days tracking trends and scouting destinations: Jim Benning, Editor-in-Chief of Westways, and Derrik Lang, Editor-in-Chief of AAA Explorer. Recording from the historic Ace Garage in Tustin, California, they reveal the domestic destinations that deserve a spot on your 2026 travel list.You'll discover why San Diego's new airport terminal and NASCAR debut make it more than just a beach town, and how Kansas City is transforming with adaptive architecture and high-profile athletics. You’ll hear what makes Santa Fe's art scene timeless, how Lexington is redefining its identity beyond horses and bourbon, and how Philadelphia is preparing for America's 250th birthday.What You’ll Learn:3:41 San Diego's multi-billion dollar airport renovation and first-ever NASCAR race 6:25 The soccer capital of the USA and the FIFA World Cup 8:27 The innovative Rock Island Bridge project 18:54 Lexington's transformation beyond horses and bourbon22:13 Philadelphia's year-long America 250 celebrationWhere are YOU planning to go in 2026? Tell us in the comments!Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Every decision you make on a trip—where you stay, what you eat, how you get around—has an impact on the place you visit. Whether it’s an Airbnb that displaces a local resident or a tour bus that crowds neighborhood streets, the travel choices we make ripple through communities in ways we might not notice. But what if small, thoughtful shifts could transform your trips into meaningful exchanges that actually benefit the people who call these destinations home?In this episode, host Angie Orth is back with Daniel Maurer, journalist, travel writer, and author of The Future of Travel. Daniel shares his top five strategies for responsible travel. He shares practical tips that help you avoid tourist traps, find authentic experiences, and ensure your money supports local communities.You'll discover how to choose accommodations that don't harm housing markets, how to spot the red flags of “tourist” restaurants, and how to experience authentic culture when you travel. Daniel also reveals why connecting with locals is the secret to unlocking the most memorable travel experiences.What You’ll Learn:00:55 How to book accommodations with the local economy in mind 02:39 The art of finding authentic tours and activities while avoiding over-hyped tourist traps03:48 Daniel's rules for identifying locally-owned restaurants 04:55 Transportation choices that support communities without crowding out residents06:21 The one mindset shift that transforms how you travel and connect with peopleConnect with Daniel Maurer:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-maurer-2331685X: https://x.com/moscamaurerBook: https://mhpbooks.com/books/the-future-of-travelWhat's your best tip for supporting local economies while traveling? Share in the comments!Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

In some of the world’s most coveted destinations, tourism is fueling a crisis that's pushing locals out of their own neighborhoods. Venice's new tourist taxes and Barcelona's growing anti-tourism protests show how beloved destinations are fighting back against over-tourism. And as travelers, it's time we listen. In this episode, host Angie Orth welcomes Daniel Maurer, a James Beard Award-winning food and travel journalist who has contributed to the New York Times, New York Magazine's Eater, and Atlas Obscura. As the former editor of Grub Street and author of the new book The Future of Travel, Daniel shares firsthand experiences from his digital nomad journey across Spain, Japan, and beyond—witnessing both the beauty of cultural exchange and the burden of mass tourism. You'll learn how to travel with respect for local communities, with insights that will show you why Catalan speakers aren't being snobbish and why that to-go coffee cup matters more than you think. Daniel reveals practical ways to lighten your footprint, connect authentically with locals, and travel with reciprocity in mind. You’ll discover what gives him hope for the future of travel and how Anthony Bourdain's philosophy can transform the way you experience the world.What You’ll Learn:3:30 Why Barcelona became ground zero for anti-tourism protests and what travelers need to understand before going7:08 How tourist taxes and etiquette campaigns are reshaping popular destinations 13:35 The role technology should (and shouldn't) play in authentic travel experiences18:32 How to move through destinations with reverence rather than extraction21:44 What connecting with locals teaches us about breaking down stereotypes and misconceptionsConnect with Daniel Maurer: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-maurer-2331685X: https://x.com/moscamaurerBook: https://mhpbooks.com/books/the-future-of-travelWhat are your thoughts on responsible travel? Share them in the comments!Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Think Nashville is all about music? Think again. Beyond the honky-tonk guitar riffs lies a city that’s quickly becoming one of the country’s most celebrated culinary destinations. With late-night bites that hit just right and inventive takes on Southern classics, Nashville’s kitchens are humming with the same creative energy that fuels its stages.In this episode, host Angie Orth welcomes Nashville-based food writer Jackie Gutierrez-Jones, who knows the city’s dining scene inside and out. Jackie shares her insider picks for where to eat, sip, and indulge across Nashville, highlighting how the city’s chefs are blending Southern tradition with global influences. She also shares which must-try dishes define the local dining experience. You’ll hear about the foods that are putting Nashville on the map—from crispy hot chicken and soulful “meat and three” plates to inventive offerings like Thai barbecue and Japanese milk bread sandwiches. Jackie also takes us through a foodie day in East Nashville, complete with coffee stops, cocktails, and an omakase dinner. She shares how the city’s creativity and community spirit make it one of the most exciting places to eat in America today. What You’ll Learn:02:06 The meal that made Jackie realize Nashville’s food scene was ready to blow up03:06 How cultural fusion is reshaping Southern cuisine05:03 The must-try dishes that define Nashville’s dining experience06:05 The spicy history of hot chicken09:35 A full-day foodie itinerary through East NashvilleConnect with Jackie Gutierrez-Jones:Instagram: @jaxwriteswordsWebsite: https://www.jaxwrites.comWhich Nashville foods are you most excited to try? Tell us about it in the comments!Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Welcome to this milestone moment for Traveling with AAA! It’s our 100th episode, and to celebrate, we’re at the legendary Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee,  celebrating a century of country music history.In this episode, host Angie Orth joins Grand Ole Opry Vice President and Executive Producer Dan Rogers to uncover what makes the Opry a cultural cornerstone. Then, country music star and Nashville native Deana Carter stops by to share what it’s like performing in the iconic circle, her favorite local spots, and why the Opry will always feel like home.You’ll learn about the history of the Grand Ole Opry and the generations of artists who’ve made it the heart of country music for 100 years. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at the backstage magic that brings multi-generational artists together, the emotional invitations presented to new members, and the surprise performances that make the Opry experience so special. What You’ll Learn:4:02 The story behind the Opry’s move and the meaning of the circle6:31 Why backstage at the Opry feels like a family reunion10:25 How artists are invited to join the Grand Ole Opry16:06 Tips for first-time visitors to the Opry25:55 Deana Carter’s must-see Nashville music and food spotsConnect with:Grand Ole Opry Vice President and Executive Producer Dan RogersInstagram: @opryWebsite: https://www.opry.comDeana CarterInstagram: @deanatunesWebsite: https://www.deana.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialDeanaCarter/Who would you love to see perform on stage at the Grand Ole Opry? Tell us in the comments! Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

From safaris and scuba diving to vineyards and vibrant art scenes, South Africa offers a variety of experiences for travelers and adventure seekers. Seeing the Big Five might be the most well-known reason to visit, but the country's spectacular beauty goes far beyond the bush.Traveling with AAA host Angie Orth chats with Alexandra Owens, a seasoned travel journalist who focuses on outdoor adventures, sustainability, and cultural storytelling. Her work highlights how conservation and tourism intersect across South Africa as well as how travelers can explore responsibly while immersing themselves in nature, food, and culture.In this episode, Alexandra shares practical advice for first-time travelers to South Africa—from visas and vaccines to packing for multiple climates—and paints a vivid picture of what it’s like to experience the country’s vast natural landscape. You’ll also hear about South Africa’s rich wine history, the rise of female safari guides, and the growing trend of sustainable “bush-to-table” dining.What You’ll Learn:01:35 What to know before your first trip to South Africa03:18 Experiencing the magic of a safari 07:01 How “guilt-free” safaris are reshaping sustainable tourism 16:22 The story behind South Africa’s wine revival 19:18 Scuba diving, marine safaris, and penguin encountersConnect with Alexandra Owens:Website: https://www.alexandraowens.com/What do you want to see most in South Africa? Tell us in the comments!Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Dreaming of fresh powder and mountain views, but worried about the price tag? Ski trips often come with costly lift tickets, gear, lodging, and meals—but that doesn’t mean they’re out of reach. With the right hacks, you can enjoy a winter getaway without draining your bank account.In this episode, host Angie Orth is back with travel journalist Melissa McGibbon, who shares her top five hacks for saving money on your next ski trip. From finding affordable flights and off-site gear rentals to knowing the best times of year for deals, Melissa shows how small shifts in planning can mean big savings on the slopes.You’ll hear practical advice for beginners and seasoned skiers alike, along with clever ways to balance convenience and cost. Whether you’re skiing late in the season, splurging on one memorable meal, or picking the right kind of lift pass, this episode has you covered for ski season. What You’ll Learn:(00:46) The best time to book flights and where to keep an eye on prices(01:17) Accommodation hacks that save money (01:46) Why late-season skiing can mean better deals and sunnier days(02:49) How to approach food choices without overspending(03:37) Tips for saving on lift tickets and gear rentalsConnect with Melissa McGibbon:Articles: https://www.powder.com/author/melissa-mcgibbonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/missmliss/CTA: How do you save money when you hit the slopes? Tell us in the comments! Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Think skiing is only for big spenders? Between pricey lift tickets, gear rentals, and mountain meals, a trip to the slopes can add up quickly. But there are ways to cut costs without cutting back on fun. In this episode, host Angie Orth is joined by travel journalist and lifelong skier Melissa McGibbon, who grew up just minutes from Alta Ski Area in Utah. With years of experience covering ski destinations around the globe, Melissa shares insider hacks that can make skiing more affordable. You’ll hear Melissa’s tips on scoring deals and learning how to avoid “powder panic” during the busiest part of the season. She also unpacks cultural differences from resorts around the world. You’ll discover how to save by supporting smaller, independent resorts timing a trip to help unlock more inexpensive options.What You’ll Learn:(02:19) The biggest misconception about skiing on a budget(04:30) The season pass perk that can completely change your trip(08:11) Powder panic explained—and how to avoid long lift lines(12:22) Where to find the best budget-friendly ski destinations abroad(24:00) The most adventurous place she’s ever skiedConnect with Melissa McGibbon:Articles: https://www.powder.com/author/melissa-mcgibbonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/missmliss/CTA: What are your favorite money-saving ski hacks? Tell us in the comments! Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

From eerie side streets to quirky haunted bars, ghost tours can turn familiar places into something extraordinary—even extrasensory. They’re part history lesson, part theater, and part entertainment.However, not all tours are created equal, and some offer experiences that go far beyond the usual gimmicks. It’s all about knowing which tours are worth including in your travel plans. In this episode, host Angie Orth is joined again by travel journalist and former paranormal investigator Jennifer Billock. Together, they uncover which ghost tours deliver top-notch storytelling, where to go for deep historical dives with a spooky twist, and how to find destinations that are meaningful and mysterious.You’ll hear about tours that combine humor and history, battlefield sites crawling with spirits, and Jennifer’s own chilling encounter at the Lizzie Borden House. Whether you’re a casually curious traveler or someone who doesn’t easily scare, this episode will help you choose your next unforgettable ghostly adventure.What You’ll Learn:00:54 Why London’s Ghost Bus Tour is equal parts funny and fascinating01:20 How historic battlefields blend real history with an eerie atmosphere01:41 Chicago’s Devil in the White City and Milwaukee’s Brew City Ghost Tours02:35 A deeply emotional and haunting experience in Cambodia03:26 Jennifer’s unsettling late-night encounter at the Lizzie Borden HouseConnect with Jennifer Billock:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferjoanbillockCTA: Have you ever been spooked on a ghost tour? Tell us about it in the comments!Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

When the sun dips below the horizon and the city goes quiet, history becomes more pronounced. From creaking hotel corridors to shadowy alleys, the stories told after dark can reveal the true spirit of a place.Ghost tours can help us see the personal side behind the places we visit, balancing goose bumps with grounded history. You leave these places with more than a fright. You gain context that enriches the travel experience.In this episode, host Angie Orth is joined by travel journalist and former paranormal investigator Jennifer Billock. Together, they explore what makes a ghost tour truly worthwhile, balancing spine-tingling tales with historical accuracy. Whether you’re a skeptic, true believer, or simply curious, this conversation will help you find tours that are memorable for all the right reasons.You’ll hear about haunted hot spots in New Orleans, Chicago, Michigan, and beyond; tips on how to be a respectful paranormal tourist; and tours that can actually deepen your connections by blending history, storytelling, and mystery.What You’ll Learn:00:00 Why haunted places hook us 02:19 The rise of  paranormal tourism and why interest is growing worldwide06:18 The Bourbon Orleans Hotel and other can’t-miss New Orleans ghost sites10:27 Chicago’s Iroquois Theater fire and how tours balance history with chills17:03 Ghost tour etiquette: honoring the past and making sure nothing “follows” you homeConnect with Jennifer Billock:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferjoanbillockCTA: Ex: What’s the scariest ghost tour you’ve ever been on? Tell us about it in the comments!Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Cruising offers access to some of Earth’s most magical destinations—and the added convenience of unpacking only once while you travel. Whether you dream of witnessing penguins in Antarctica or floating past storybook villages on the Rhine, it’s time to chart your next unforgettable voyage.Traveling with AAA host Angie Orth is back with cruise expert and travel journalist Meena Thiruvengadam to share her favorite bucket-list cruises, from polar extremes at the edge of the world to often overlooked destinations closer to home.You’ll discover how unique ships can feel like Nordic-style hotels at sea, and why the Great Lakes are a surprisingly enchanting destination. You’ll also hear about the majestic fjords of Norway, onboard dining splurges that are worth the money, and a river itinerary that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.What You’ll Learn:00:48 The place at the top of Meena’s list of unforgettable destinations03:09 The surprising beauty of cruising the Great Lakes04:41 How Norway’s fjords and northern lights deliver authentic magic06:13 Why specialty dining is worth the splurge on board07:13 The Rhine River itinerary that feels like sailing through a fairy taleConnect with Meena Thiruvengadam:Website: https://travelwithmeena.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meenathiruCTA: What’s your bucket-list cruise destination? Tell us in the comments! Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

**You can Win a trip to Walt Disney World**The Grand Prize is for 1 winner and up to three (3) guests at Walt Disney World® Resort. Runner-Up Prizes will be one of 10 Disney Gift Cards valued at $50.You can enter via the form here: https://aaa-text.co/podcastThe holidays at Walt Disney World are more than twinkling lights and parades—they’re about the unforgettable little details that make each trip magical. But how do Disney insiders experience the parks during this festive season? From the best snacks to hidden spots and essential planning tips, this episode uncovers the secrets straight from the people who know the parks best.Host Angie Orth speaks with Disney Ambassadors Serena Arvizu and Shannon Smith, multicultural marketing manager Caris Edmond, Dr. Zak Gezon, Imagineer Priya Sampath, Chef Gary Miles, and other Disney insiders. They share favorite treats, hidden hideaways, and the tips they wish every guest knew before stepping into the parks.Whether you’re planning your first holiday visit or making a return trip to relive traditions, you’ll find inspiration in these stories of food, fun, and festive magic.What You’ll Learn:03:15 The “secret menu hack” that turns a Disney salad into a must-try meal08:42 Where to find a quiet corner of EPCOT that feels like another world14:05 The one online resource every guest should use before booking a trip15:33 Why PhotoPass is the most underrated tool for capturing memories17:57 The small holiday details Imagineers love—and how to spot themEnter for your chance to win a trip to Walt Disney World® Resort via: https://aaa-text.co/podcastConnect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaaLinkedIn:   / aaa-auto-club-enterprises  Instagram:   / aaaautoclubenterprises  Facebook:   / aaaautoclubenterprises 

**You can Win a trip to Walt Disney World**The Grand Prize is for 1 winner and up to three (3) guests at Walt Disney World® Resort. Runner-Up Prizes will be one of 10 Disney Gift Cards valued at $50.You can enter via the form here: https://aaa-text.co/podcastFrom spooky nights to festive lights, Walt Disney World transforms during the fall and holiday season into something truly unforgettable. Between Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival, dazzling parades, and brand-new attractions, there’s no shortage of magic to discover.In this episode, host Angie Orth takes us on a seasonal journey through all four parks with the help of Disney insiders. You’ll hear from Plan Disney panelist Christina, Disney Ambassadors Shannon Smith and Serena Arvizu, Marketing Strategy Manager Lisa Hain, Conservation Director Dr. Zak Gezon, and Imagineer Priya Sampath. They share holiday traditions, behind-the-scenes details, and the secrets that make this time of year so special.Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning to create new memories, this episode is your insider’s guide to the parks during their most enchanting season.What You’ll Learn:03:56 How one Disney family celebrates Halloween with themed costumes every year08:15 Why Magic Kingdom’s holiday parade is a must-see tradition14:22 EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival highlights and the debut of GEO 82 for Disney adults19:48 Animal Kingdom’s conservation mission and magical wildlife encounters26:30 Behind the scenes with Imagineer Priya Sampath on creating Zootopia: Better ZoogetherEnter for your chance to win a trip to Walt Disney World® Resort via: https://aaa-text.co/podcastConnect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Is the awe-inspiring open ocean or an undulating river calling your name? Today’s cruise ships are floating realms where each sunrise leads to a new adventure. From cozy thermal spas to adrenaline-pumping slides, there are cruise amenities for every kind of traveler.In this episode, Traveling with AAA host Angie Orth welcomes cruise super-fan and travel journalist Meena Thiruvengadam to reveal the latest trends in cruising in 2025 and beyond. With nearly 20 sailings under her belt, she’s here to decode what’s next at sea, along rivers, and in ports.You’ll learn about chef-driven dining,  mood-boosting wellness sanctuaries, next-gen technology, and bucket-list itineraries ranging from Antarctica to the Mekong. You’ll also hear about smaller expedition-style ships that put passengers closer to nature, proving that the new era of cruising can be immersive, intimate, and luxurious. What You’ll Learn:05:00 Why cruising really has something for every style of traveler12:30 Game-changing shipboard tech 20:15 What it’s really like to cruise Antarctica 27:45 How to choose between big-ship thrills and small-ship intimacy35:10 Emerging destinations and next-wave trendsConnect with Meena Thiruvengadam:Website: https://travelwithmeena.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meenathiruCTA: What cruise destination or amenity are YOU most excited about? Tell us in the comments! Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

If food is your favorite travel companion, Chicago may be your ultimate destination in the U.S. Beyond its iconic hot dogs and deep-dish pizza, the Windy City is bursting with flavors that tell stories of immigrant traditions, culinary innovation, and neighborhood pride. Every corner offers something delicious, whether you’re savoring a Michelin-starred tasting menu, lining up for a beloved Italian beef sandwich, or uncovering lesser-known haunts.Today, host Angie Orth is back with Chicago insider and veteran travel journalist Kit Bernardi on the rooftop of the Virgin Hotel. She shares her top must-try food and drink experiences, from classic dishes that built Chicago’s reputation to unexpected neighborhood treasures. Kit maps out a flavorful itinerary across the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. You’ll hear about iconic bites like Italian beef, deep-dish pizza, and the famed Vienna hot dog. You’ll learn where to book for an elevated night out at award-winning spots, including a Michelin-starred brewery. You’ll also hear how to “set-jet” with a food tour that hits filming locations and beloved bakeries featured in the hit show The Bear.What You’ll Learn:01:13 The Chicago staples you have to try first02:45 Michelin-starred spots and hidden cocktail bars04:10 Where to “set-jet” The Bear06:05 The neighborhoods that give Chicago its flavor08:12 Blending tradition with constant reinventionConnect with Kit Bernardi:Website: https://kittravels.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitbernardi/CTA: What’s your favorite Chicago foodie find? Tell us about it in the comments!Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Dreaming of a city escape that blends world-famous architecture, lakefront beauty, rich history, and dynamic culture? Chicago has it all. From iconic skyscrapers to hidden neighborhood gems, this episode will change the way you see the Windy City.Today host Angie Orth welcomes Kit Bernardi, a Chicago native and travel journalist, on the rooftop of the Virgin Hotel in Chicago. She’ll reveal the stories and experiences that make her hometown shine, from the Great Fire that reshaped the city to the immigrant roots that continue to define it. Kit shares insider insights that go far beyond the guidebooks.You’ll hear about the best ways to see Chicago’s legendary skyline, when to hit the lakefront for outdoor adventures, where to explore can’t-miss museums and theaters, and how to begin a Route 66 journey. Whether you’re planning your first trip or a repeat visit, this episode is packed with tips that will help you experience Chicago like a local.What You’ll Learn:05:32 How the Great Chicago Fire reshaped the city12:27 Must-see museums and surprising niche gems15:49 Chicago’s thriving theater scene17:53 Sports culture and the “no ketchup” hot dog rule19:23 Starting Route 66 the classic wayConnect with Kit Bernardi:Website: https://kittravels.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitbernardi/More of Kit’s Chicago Recommendations: Neighborhoods to Visit: Hyde Park, Oak Park, Pilsen Attractions: Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago Sports Museum, National Museum of Mexican Art, DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, The American Writers Museum, Chicago History Museum, Jane Addams Hull House Museum CTA: What’s your favorite must-see in Chicago? Tell us about it in the comments! Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises