Traveling with AAA – Details, episodes & analysis

Travel isn’t what it used to be. Flights, hotels, and experiences have become more accessible, and there are a growing number of people exploring the world, choosing to make travel a priority in their lives. 

As travel has become more affordable around the globe, people are packing their bags and joining that security line at the airport, which can lead to longer wait times, more crowded flights, and busier destinations.

Not only does that put stress on the most sought-after places in the travel circuit, but it can make travel a stressful experience. 

It’s time to talk about R-E-S-P-E-C-T.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Molly O’Brien, an experienced travel writer who has covered travel topics like etiquette, overtourism, and other important travel trends. Her work has been featured in Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Fodor’s, and Business Insider.

You’ll hear what it means to be a respectful traveler, from the moment you start planning to the journey home. You’ll learn about airport etiquette and best practices for flying, so you can avoid being the subject of a viral online video. You’ll also understand the role of sustainability when it comes to preserving the best parts of the places we love.

What You’ll Learn:

• (3:38) A checklist of respectful tips
• (6:08) Navigating local tipping customs
• (9:50) Being a good airline traveler
• (17:21) Keeping your cool when travel stress is high
• (23:13) Being mindful of sustainability when you travel

Connect with Molly O’Brien:

Website: https://metropolitanmolly.com

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

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

X: https://twitter.com/Molly_A_OBrien

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa 

https://clubadventures.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

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

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

If you had a busy summer, you could possibly open up a whole new world of opportunity and adventure with winter travel to unique and unexpected places. Whether it’s scoring deals at a lesser-known ski resort or heading further south for some winter sun on your shoulders, taking a winter vacation has never sounded better. 

Today, Angie Orth is back with Chadner Navarro. In our previous episode, he shared his favorite winter travel destinations. Now he’s revealing his top tips for planning off-peak travel and scoring the best deals. 

You’ll hear how to start planning your off-peak adventure and narrow down the countless destinations at your fingertips. You’ll learn how and where to get the best travel and accommodation deals. You’ll also understand how to successfully manage expectations for winter travel and protect your investment, just in case winter weather makes things a little more adventurous than you expected.  

What You’ll Learn:

• (0:39) How to start planning for winter travel
• (1:04) The best time to travel during the winter
• (2:32) When to find the best deal and what to avoid
• (3:17) How to hunt for the best winter travel deals
• (3:53) Managing winter travel expectations

Connect with Chadner Navarro:

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

X: https://twitter.com/chadner

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

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

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

Traveling is about seeing unique architecture, exploring new cultures, and basking in the uniqueness of the world. Perhaps most importantly, it’s also about what you’ll eat and drink along the way.

Today, Angie Orth is back with Mark Baker, a freelance journalist, travel writer, author, and American expat who has lived in Prague for 30 years. As a destination expert for this bustling European city, he’s got the inside scoop on the best food in Prague and where to find it. 

You’ll hear about the most iconic Czech dishes, where to find them, and how to spot the tourist-driven places to avoid. Mark shares his favorite local establishments for hearty, down-to-earth plates, high-level culinary experiences, and delectable pastries. You’ll also get an introduction to the local beer culture and learn about the emerging wine culture in the region. 

What You’ll Learn:

• Where to grab your first meal of the day (0:54)
• An old-school cafe where you can find a traditional Czech lunch (2:16)
• The place to splash out for a Michelin-level dining experience (3:10)
• Exploring beer culture and wine country (3:55)
• Where to satisfy your sweet tooth (7:09)

Guest Info:

Website: https://markbakerprague.com 

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

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

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

You’ve seen Buckingham Palace and Big Ben in London. You’ve taken the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. You’ve marveled at the grandeur of the Colosseum in Rome. But there’s so much more yet to discover.  

If you’re still hungry for the quintessential old European city but want to see someplace with a flavor all its own, then Prague needs to be on your travel wish list. 

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Mark Baker, a freelance journalist, travel writer, author, and American expat who has lived in Prague for 30 years. He’s a destination expert for National Geographic Expeditions and has written for Kinfolk, BBC World News, the Wall Street Journal, and Wanderlust.

You’ll hear about the fascinating history of Prague through its transformation from a world power to a bohemian hot spot, to the beautiful and bustling city that it is today. You’ll explore the stunning architecture, learn the secret of the famous spires, and hear about some of the lesser-known spots that are worth exploring. 

What You’ll Learn:

• A historical introduction to the city of Prague (2:27)
• An audible, imaginative tour through the city (8:00)
• What you’ll see at the famous historic marketplace (11:30)
• Overlooked places that most tourists don’t experience (15:26)
• How to get around during your visit (20:25)

Guest Info:

Website: https://markbakerprague.com

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

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

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

The romance of train travel can’t be denied, and that’s what makes choosing to explore Europe by rail such an exciting option.

The only problem is figuring out which countries you want to visit and which routes to choose. For this, you need a European train expert to help you narrow it down.

Today, Angie Orth is back with Tom Hall. He is the expert extraordinaire on train travel in Europe. He’s a regular contributor to Lonely Planet, and his own website is chock-full of helpful information for planning your rail journey. 

You’ll hear everything you need to know about which route to choose for your travel goals. Whether it’s a scenic, action-packed rail journey you’re looking for, the best routes for families, or a relaxed gastronomic experience with fine food and wine, this episode will guide you toward the right track. 

What You’ll Learn:

• The best route for packing in as much as possible in one journey (0:53)
• Why train travel is a great choice for families with kids (2:53)
• Where to travel if good food and wine are top priorities (4:17)
• An underrated route for spectacular views (5:55)
• Where to travel if you’re an artist seeking inspiration (7:06)

Guest Info:

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

X: https://www.twitter.com/tomhalltravel

Website: https://tomhalltravel.com

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/europe-top-train-routes-2024

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/europes-best-night-trains

https://shop.lonelyplanet.com/products/amazing-train-journeys

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

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

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

Interconnected networks throughout Europe make rail travel one of the best and most romantic ways to see the continent, whether it’s winding through the dramatic Swiss Alps, absorbing the natural solitude of the Scottish Highlands, or glimpsing the lively coastline along the Med. It’s also one of the easiest, most relaxed ways to get around.

While railcar interiors may have changed over the years and our handheld suitcases have now become wardrobes on wheels, train travel is still a primary means of transportation in many parts of the world. 

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Tom Hall. He’s a longtime contributor to Lonely Planet, and his expertise is in traveling Europe by rail. If you’ve always dreamed of taking a romantic train journey across Europe, then his advice is your golden ticket. 

You’ll hear what makes train travel so different, and why it’s the best way to get across the continent. You’ll learn the ins and outs of multi-country rail passes, and know what to expect on trains in different countries and travel classes. You’ll also hear about some of the most incredible train journeys and gain a few tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

What You’ll Learn:

• What makes train travel in Europe such a special experience (2:03)
• Advice about rail passes and reservations (6:26)
• The scenery that trains give you access to that car travel does not (17:07)
• A comfortably paced 8-10 day itinerary (19:29)
• How to keep calm and manage delays like a pro (22:04)

Guest Info:

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

X: https://www.twitter.com/tomhalltravel

Website: https://tomhalltravel.com

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/europe-top-train-routes-2024

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/europes-best-night-trains

https://shop.lonelyplanet.com/products/amazing-train-journeys

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

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

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

The American road trip is a quintessential pastime. But if you’re looking for something a bit more international, there are spectacular drives all around the world that are just waiting to be explored. 

Although perhaps nothing else quite ticks all the boxes like the one we’re talking about today. 

Lush green forests, hills, mountains, steep cliffs that dramatically overlook the sea, plus lively pub culture, great seafood, and traditional music … the North Coast 500 has it all! 

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Dan Holland and Pennie Stuart, hosts of the NC500 podcast series. Their passion and expertise when it comes to “Scotland’s Route 66” will have you behind the wheel and headed for the Highlands in no time!

You’ll hear about the unmatched scenery you’ll experience along this iconic drive, and why it’s being compared to our very own Route 66. You’ll learn how to set yourself up for the journey, and how to see the best of nature, quaint picturesque villages, and cultural hot spots along the way. You’ll also learn a few road safety and seasonal tips so you can best prepare for your Scottish adventure. 

What You’ll Learn:

• Getting to know the North Coast 500 (1:57)
• Why people refer to the NC 500 as Scotland’s Route 66 (6:54)
• How long you need to enjoy the drive properly (14:24)
• A weeklong itinerary to hit all the highlights (15:24)
• How to choose the season that will suit you best (22:25)

Guest Info needed:

NC500 Website: https://www.northcoast500.com/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/northcoast500/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/northcoast500

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northcoast500/

Connect with AAA:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

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

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

It’s the birthplace of K-pop, famously rich Korean drama productions, and maybe the only place in the world where 7-11 (yes, the convenience store) needs to be on your dining agenda.

We’re back in Seoul, South Korea, to discover the fun and vibrant pop culture that this city has become famous for. From music to film to strangely fascinating cafés, this is a city that leaves an impression.

Today, Angie Orth is back with Samantha Gross, author of the travel blog There She Goes Again. Her experiences as a resident of and visitor to the bustling city of Seoul have given her insider knowledge about Korean pop culture. 

You’ll learn all about the K-pop phenomenon, and Sam shares her favorite band to follow if you’re ready to explore the roots of this iconic music. You’ll hear about the surprising convenience store delicacies you’ll find, and the specific shops to seek out if you want to stock up on South Korea's famous beauty products. You’ll also learn why South Korea puts so much effort into building a strong entertainment industry—and the best way to entertain yourself while you’re there.

What You’ll Learn:

• Understanding K-pop from the Korean perspective (0:49)
• What you’ll discover at convenience stores in Seoul (3:02)
• Where to stock up on K-beauty products (3:51)
• Why the South Korean film industry is so good (5:33)
• The most fun thing you’ll do in Seoul (7:11)

Resources:

K-Pop: SHINee 샤이니 'Ring Ding Dong': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=roughtzsCDI

Viki: https://www.viki.com/

Connect with Sam:

Website: https://thereshegoesagain.org/

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

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

Connect with AAA:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

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

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

Have you ever been to a place where the past, present, and future collide—and somehow magically it creates an aesthetic that works?

In societies with ancient roots, modern architecture can seem out of place. But there’s one city where you can see ancient temples and marvel at beautifully designed towers. You can be in the city but still sense nature all around you. And, you can pop into tiny local restaurants that have been serving the same delicious recipes for generations while also tickling your taste buds with modern street foods.

If you haven’t added the city of Seoul, South Korea, to your bucket list, then it’s about time you do!

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Samantha Gross, author of the travel blog There She Goes Again. Samantha’s longtime love for Seoul inspired her to study abroad there, and she’s been back countless times since. 

You’ll hear about all the best places to explore in the city and which neighborhoods you’ll enjoy most based on what you’re looking for. She shares tips for identifying the best places to eat and tells you the top 3 foods to eat in Seoul. You’ll also learn about the creative café culture and how to get around to see everything this vibrant city has to offer!    

What You’ll Learn:

• What to expect when you arrive in Seoul (2:16)
• Where and what to eat, from restaurants to bustling street food scenes (3:30)
• The famously quirky cafés of Seoul (7:00)
• Exploring the best neighborhood and deciding where to stay (9:12)
• The best way to get around during your visit to Seoul (11:24)

Resources:

Sam’s blog on trendy cafés in Seoul: https://thereshegoesagain.org/cafes-in-seoul/

Connect with Sam:

Website: https://thereshegoesagain.org/

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

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

Connect with AAA:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

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

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

You’re dreaming about seeing African wildlife up close and personal (safely, of course), sleeping under the stars, and waking up to the tantalizing smells of breakfast being cooked over the coals of a hot campfire. 

There’s just one problem …

How do you narrow it down when there’s an entire continent to explore? 

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Sherwin Banda back for another all-you-need-to-know safari session. As an expert in just about every type of safari you could dream up, the president of African Travel shares his top recommendations to help you nail down the right experience for your needs and budget. 

You’ll hear about the wide breadth of safari experiences across the continent of Africa. You’ll get the best recommendations of which countries to visit based on what you want to see and do, whether you’re the type who likes to rough it, or if you’re looking for a more high-touch excursion.    

What You’ll Learn:

• The most majestic wildlife safari and where to see it (0:47)
• Where you’ll find the most breathtaking landscapes (1:49)
• A safari for the outdoorsy type (2:49)
• Where to safari in the lap of luxury (3:40)
• The ultimate safari destination for foodies (5:19)

Connect with Sherwin Banda:

African Travel: https://africantravelinc.com/

X: https://twitter.com/sherwinbanda?lang=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeKnowAfrica

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherwin-banda-8177a85

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherwin.banda/

Connect with AAA:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

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

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