Traveling with AAA - podcast cover

Traveling with AAA

Auto Club Enterpriseswww.ace.aaa.com
To help you get the most of your travel experiences, Traveling with AAA takes you around the country and the world through conversations with industry pros. You’ll hear tips and tricks, travelers’ tales, and hard-won wisdom that will inspire you to plan your next adventure. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of Auto Club Enterprises/The Automobile Club of Southern California, AAA and/or its affiliates.
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Episodes

The Story & Symbolism Behind Souvenirs with Rolf Potts

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 public...

Dec 18, 202520 min

5 Places Around the World to Visit in 2026 with Jim Benning and Derrik Lang

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 Ang...

Dec 11, 202529 min

Top U.S. Destinations to Visit in 2026 with Jim Benning and Derrik Lang

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 yo...

Dec 04, 202526 min

5 Ways to Support Local Economies When You Travel with Daniel Maurer

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 ...

Nov 27, 20258 min

How to Be a Thoughtful Traveler with Daniel Maurer

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 ...

Nov 20, 202526 min

Must-Eat Foods in Nashville, Tennessee with Jackie Gutierrez-Jones

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...

Nov 13, 202518 min

Celebrating the Grand Ole Opry's 100th Anniversary in Nashville, Tennessee

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 fa...

Nov 06, 202530 min

South Africa for the Curious Traveler: Wildlife, Wine, & Conservation with Alexandra Owens

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 int...

Oct 30, 202531 min

Top 5 Hacks for Saving Money on Your Next Ski Vacation with Melissa McGibbon

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 know...

Oct 23, 20256 min

Affordable Ski Destinations with Melissa McGibbon

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...

Oct 16, 202525 min

Top 5 Ghost Tour Experiences with Jennifer Billock

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 B...

Oct 09, 20256 min

World’s Best Ghost Tours with Jennifer Billock

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 f...

Oct 02, 202522 min

Top 5 Bucket-List Cruises with Meena Thiruvengadam

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 overlook...

Sep 25, 202510 min

Insider Tips for Visiting Walt Disney World®

**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/podcast The 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...

Sep 23, 202513 min

How to Celebrate the Holidays at Walt Disney World®

**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/podcast From 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, ...

Sep 23, 202518 min

What’s New in Cruising with Meena Thiruvengadam

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 t...

Sep 18, 202537 min

Foodie Finds in Chicago with Kit Bernardi

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 insi...

Sep 11, 202510 min

What’s New and Exciting in Chicago with Kit Bernardi

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 th...

Sep 04, 202524 min

Top 5 Hidden California Experiences with Josh McNair

California’s most unforgettable sights are often far from the tourist trail. They’re the ones you stumble upon by accident or hear about as a whispered recommendation: the beach crowned by a pirate tower, the candy-colored hotel room that feels like a movie set, the ethereal desert where art springs up from the sand. These are the places not on postcards, but stay etched in your memory forever. In this episode, host Angie Orth is back with explorer and storyteller Josh McNair of California Throu...

Aug 28, 20257 min

Hidden California Gems with Josh McNair

Think you know California? Think again. Beyond the iconic Pacific beaches and Hollywood landmarks lies a whole other side of the Golden State filled with uninhabited islands, offbeat art installations, and otherworldly landscapes you won’t necessarily find in a guidebook. In this episode, host Angie Orth chats with Josh McNair, the videographer and photographer behind California Through My Lens , a blog and YouTube channel dedicated to uncovering the state’s lesser-known treasures. With more tha...

Aug 21, 202526 min

5 Must-try Eats in Europe’s Underrated Cities with Gerald Tan

Traveling with a sweet tooth? Or maybe you’re craving the kind of comfort food that lingers in your memory long after your trip ends? In this episode of Traveling with AAA , host Angie Orth is back with travel and food journalist Gerald Tan, who shares his top five incredible eats in Europe’s best-kept secret cities. From protected pastries in Slovakia to cheesy Alpine comfort food in Liechtenstein, Gerald reveals the hidden culinary delights he has uncovered through years of off-the-beaten-path...

Aug 14, 202514 min

Less-crowded European Destinations with Gerald Tan

What if your next favorite European destination wasn’t a capital city or a tourist hotspot, but somewhere you’ve never even heard of? Maybe it’s a quiet, picturesque seaside village tucked between the French Riviera and the hills of northern Italy. Or a cliffside Sicilian town where locals eat granita for breakfast. Or perhaps even a fairytale-like walled city in northern England, complete with ghost stories and Harry Potter lore. In this episode of Traveling with AAA , host Angie Orth welcomes ...

Aug 07, 202528 min

Your Bermuda Travel Guide with Expert Megan Indoe

If you’re planning your first trip to Bermuda, you’re in for a magical experience. But what sets it apart from the rest of the Caribbean? (For starters, it’s not technically in the Caribbean.) And how do you make the most of a short or long stay to experience the local culture? Whether you’re dreaming of pink sand beaches, cliffside golf, or cave massages, this episode is the perfect starting point for exploring one of the world’s most stunning islands. Today, host Angie Orth welcomes travel con...

Jul 31, 202520 min

Top 5 Awe-Inducing Travel Destinations with Sandy Cohen

Is awe on your itinerary? From massive waterfalls and architectural marvels to unexpected moments in your neighborhood, awe is everywhere–if you know where to look. In this episode, host Angie Orth is back with health and wellness expert Sandy Cohen. She shares her top five destinations and travel experiences that left her speechless and explains what made them feel so awe-inspiring. You’ll hear about the power of national parks, why certain landmarks like Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia can boost y...

Jul 24, 20256 min

Unlocking Awe: Your Transformative Travel Guide with Sandy Cohen

Travel often takes us to beautiful beaches, stunning skylines, and historic landmarks. But what if the most important aspect of escaping the ordinary is the feeling it gives us? That spine-tingling, goosebump-raising sensation you feel when you witness something breathtaking provides us with the feeling of awe. Not only is awe good for the soul, it’s also great for your physical and mental health. Today, host Angie Orth welcomes Sandy Cohen, a health and wellness writer, coach, and educator on a...

Jul 17, 202531 min

Top 5 Tips for Great Travel Photos & Videos with Juliana Broste

Ever scroll through your camera roll and wonder why your vacation pics just don’t pop ? Whether you're chasing sunsets or filming street food, this episode offers practical advice you can use now to start capturing better quality photos and videos. From finding creative angles to working with natural light, these tips will instantly turn your trips down memory lane into experiences of their own. Today, host Angie Orth is back with Emmy-winning vlogger and travel content creator Juliana Broste. S...

Jul 10, 202510 min

How to Take Amazing Vacation Photos & Video with Juliana Broste

Are your vacation pics collecting dust? Or not getting enough traction on social media? Maybe they just aren’t capturing moments the way you remember them? Whether you’re simply traveling with your smartphone or packing your high-end camera, this episode will change the way you approach travel photography and videography. Today, host Angie Orth welcomes Juliana Broste, an Emmy- and Lowell Thomas Award–winning travel vlogger and content creator. She’s an expert in visually telling stories about t...

Jul 03, 202529 min

Plan the Ultimate Day at Epic Universe With Theme Park Expert Jacqueline Dole

Rides, fairytales, mythology, and epic snacks…oh my! Universal’s Epic Universe is making a serious splash on bucket lists everywhere. But where do you even begin to tackle such a monumental, full-on experience so that you can get the most out of your visit? Well, just like magic, you’ve landed in the right place. This episode reveals all you need to know about planning your visit, when to go, where to stay, which ticket upgrades to splurge on, and the rides and eats that you shouldn’t miss. What...

Jun 26, 20258 min

Traveling Unprotected? Why Travel Insurance is Worth It with Daniel Durazo

Think travel insurance is just an optional expense? Think again. With Americans planning to spend $226 billion on travel this year, smart travelers are making insurance non-negotiable. From missed flights and cruise ports to unexpected illness and injury, this episode dives deep into the myriad of travel interruptions that could upend your trip and how to protect yourself from them. You'll discover why more Americans than ever are prioritizing vacations, the surprising travel trends shaping 2025...

Jun 23, 202544 min

Visiting Universal’s Epic Universe: Where Wonder Lives Again

What if there were a place where you could portal back to the wonder you felt as a kid? Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida, is a real-life, tangible immersion into worlds you couldn’t actually visit... until now. Epic Universe is more than a nostalgic journey through the past. It’s your passport into a world where the impossible comes to life right before your very eyes! What You’ll Learn: 2:36 What’s special about Orlando’s Super Mario Land 3:26 Donkey Kong’s US debut 7:09 A fun and ...

Jun 19, 202522 min
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