Traveling with AAA

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 skied Connect with Melissa McGibbon: Articles: https://www.powder.com/author/melissa-mcgibbon Instagram: 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-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: 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 fascinating 01:20 How historic battlefields blend real history with an eerie atmosphere 01:41 Chicago’s Devil in the White City and Milwaukee’s Brew City Ghost Tours 02:35 A deeply emotional and haunting experience in Cambodia 03:26 Jennifer’s unsettling late-night encounter at the Lizzie Borden House Connect with Jennifer Billock: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferjoanbillock CTA: 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-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: 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 worldwide 06:18 The Bourbon Orleans Hotel and other can’t-miss New Orleans ghost sites 10:27 Chicago’s Iroquois Theater fire and how tours balance history with chills 17:03 Ghost tour etiquette: honoring the past and making sure nothing “follows” you home Connect with Jennifer Billock: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferjoanbillock CTA: 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-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: 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 destinations 03:09 The surprising beauty of cruising the Great Lakes 04:41 How Norway’s fjords and northern lights deliver authentic magic 06:13 Why specialty dining is worth the splurge on board 07:13 The Rhine River itinerary that feels like sailing through a fairy tale Connect with Meena Thiruvengadam: Website: https://travelwithmeena.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meenathiru CTA: 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-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: 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/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 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 meal 08:42 Where to find a quiet corner of EPCOT that feels like another world 14:05 The one online resource every guest should use before booking a trip 15:33 Why PhotoPass is the most underrated tool for capturing memories 17:57 The small holiday details Imagineers love—and how to spot them Enter for your chance to win a trip to Walt Disney World® Resort via: https://aaa-text.co/podcast  Connect with AAA: Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises nstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: 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/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, 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 year 08:15 Why Magic Kingdom’s holiday parade is a must-see tradition 14:22 EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival highlights and the debut of GEO 82 for Disney adults 19:48 Animal Kingdom’s conservation mission and magical wildlife encounters 26:30 Behind the scenes with Imagineer Priya Sampath on creating Zootopia: Better Zoogether Enter for your chance to win a trip to Walt Disney World® Resort via: https://aaa-text.co/podcast 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

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 traveler 12:30 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 intimacy 35:10 Emerging destinations and next-wave trends Connect with Meena Thiruvengadam: Website: https://travelwithmeena.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meenathiru CTA: 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-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: 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 first 02:45 Michelin-starred spots and hidden cocktail bars 04:10 Where to “set-jet” The Bear 06:05 The neighborhoods that give Chicago its flavor 08:12 Blending tradition with constant reinvention Connect 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-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: 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 city 12:27 Must-see museums and surprising niche gems 15:49 Chicago’s thriving theater scene 17:53 Sports culture and the “no ketchup” hot dog rule 19:23 Starting Route 66 the classic way Connect 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-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

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 Through My Lens. Known for uncovering the unexpected, from whimsical art installations to wild desert landscapes, Josh curates a lineup of offbeat destinations tailored to every type of traveler. Whether you’re in search of mystery, history, romance, family fun, or something wonderfully weird, Josh’s picks prove that California still has plenty of surprises in store. From Muir Woods’ towering trees and the pastel glamour of San Luis Obispo's Madonna Inn to Death Valley’s remote mining relics and the ever-changing art scene of the Salton Sea, you’ll discover places that are as unforgettable as they are unconventional. What You’ll Learn: 00:53 Where to find mystery among ancient trees 01:42 The underrated side of Death Valley’s mining history 02:48 A pirate tower beach adventure kids will never forget 03:28 A romantic getaway at California’s most eclectic hotel 05:16 The bizarre beauty and evolving art of the Salton Sea Episode Mentioned: Exploring Retro Hotels with B.A. Van Sise Connect with Josh McNair: https://www.instagram.com/californiathroughmylens/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZFRs1R9ECKDwnLy5IQzwkg https://www.facebook.com/CaliforniaThroughMyLens/ Read the Westways story: https://AAA.com/hiddencalifornia CTA: Which Hidden California type of traveler are you? Tell us where you want to go in the comments! 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

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 than a decade of exploration under his belt and a map of over 1,500 must-visit spots, Josh is sharing his process for finding these unique destinations, from Martian-like rock formations to secret speakeasies. You’ll hear about the joy of discovering places many locals don’t know exist, tips for perfectly timing your visits, and why protecting certain spots sometimes means not sharing them at all. Whether you’re into natural wonders, quirky roadside attractions, or tucked-away eateries, this episode will inspire you to explore deeper—maybe right in your own backyard. What You’ll Learn: 01:51 Why California is more than its most famous landmarks 03:28 The story behind Salvation Mountain and its visionary creator 06:23 Giant Rock, alien lore, and other strange desert finds 10:33 Why hidden spots make travel more approachable and affordable 14:55 How timing can make or break your off-the-beaten-path adventure Connect with Josh McNair: https://www.instagram.com/californiathroughmylens/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZFRs1R9ECKDwnLy5IQzwkg https://www.facebook.com/CaliforniaThroughMyLens/ Read the Westways story: https://AAA.com/hiddencalifornia CTA: Which Hidden California spot is at the top of your must-see list? Tell us in the comments! 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 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 travel. You’ll discover which city invented the Kit Kat, where to find Michelin-worthy seafood on the Italian Riviera, and the one simple shift in how you ask locals for food recommendations that can unlock your best meal yet. What You’ll Learn: 01:19 The most protected pastry in Bratislava 03:11 A paradise for chocolate lovers 05:14 Liechtenstein’s take on mac and cheese with a twist 06:44 What you need to know before ordering Slovakia’s most famous soup 09:38 Where to eat near Bordighera if you want Michelin-starred cuisine Connect with Gerald Tan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boulangerry/ Website: https://boulangerry.com/ Which of these local delicacies are you MOST excited to try? Tell us in the comments! 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

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 Gerald Tan, travel and food journalist and host of the series T’Sol Food. Gerald shares his favorite lesser-known cities in Europe where you can escape the crowds, eat like a local, and experience culture in its most authentic form. You’ll hear how a detour to a tiny town led to 13 scoops of gelato in 12 hours, why one city has exclusive rights to send palm fronds to the Vatican, and how hiking across an entire country in five days is actually possible. Whether you’re planning your next big trip or just dreaming of one, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you travel slower, a little off-the-beaten-path, and with more authenticity in mind. What You’ll Learn: 01:33 The allure of smaller, less tourist-heavy destinations 03:47 Creating more authentic local connections 09:07 An Italian town with royal ties and seafront views 15:59 Where to find Diagon Alley in real life 22:38 A place with an 8,000-year wine legacy and unique geography Connect with Gerald Tan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boulangerry/ Website: https://boulangerry.com/ What’s the most authentic, off-the-beaten-path European destination you’ve visited? Tell us in the comments! 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

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 content creator Megan “ChiChi” Indoe, one half of the duo behind the Bobo & ChiChi travel blog. Megan has explored every corner of Bermuda and is here to share insider tips and surprising facts.. You’ll hear about Bermuda’s unique geography and history, the best ways to get around, and what makes its famous beaches glow pink. Megan also shares her favorite secret beach, the story behind the caves that inspired Fraggle Rock, and why visiting during shoulder season is the ultimate travel hack.  What You’ll Learn: 02:19 Why tiny Bermuda is actually packed with adventure 04:36 What makes Hamilton different from historic St. George 08:31 Where to find the most dramatic pink sand beaches 09:02 The hidden beach with whale-watching views 13:58 Where to experience an unforgettable massage inside a cave Connect with Megan “Chi-Chi” Indoe: Website: https://www.boboandchichi.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megindoe/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/boboandchichi CTA: What would you like to see most in Bermuda? 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

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 your mood, and how communal events like Burning Man can be equally powerful as nature. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply need a little wonder in your day, this episode will inspire you to seek out awe. What You’ll Learn: 00:50 Where to find breathtaking natural landscapes 01:34 Awe-inspiring architecture in the U.S. and abroad 02:08 Historical sites that draw global visitors 02:38 How Burning Man redefined Sandy’s idea of community 03:36 A surprising moment of awe at a local 5K Connect with Sandy Cohen: Website: https://www.sandycohenwrites.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesandycohen/ Podcast: https://www.innerpeacetogo.com/ Story: https://www.ace.aaa.com/publications/travel/awe-inspiring-experiences.html Book Referenced: Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher Keltner CTA: What was your most recent awe-inspiring moment? Tell us in the comments! 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

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 mission to make mindfulness more practical and accessible. She’s the host of the podcast Inner Peace to Go and recently wrote about the science of awe while traveling for Westways and AAA Explorer. You’ll hear why awe may be the most powerful reason we travel in the first place, how to make room for it on your next trip, and why this fleeting feeling is worth chasing at home or abroad. From dolphin pods to street festivals, you’ll learn why awe is more accessible than you think and how it can truly change the way we experience the world. What You’ll Learn: 06:22 The surprising health benefits of experiencing awe 08:48 Why it’s easier to find awe when you’re traveling 09:40 Travel experiences most likely to spark feelings of awe 13:16 How to be intentional about seeking these experiences 19:39 How to take the feeling home with you Connect with Sandy Cohen: Website: https://www.sandycohenwrites.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesandycohen/ Podcast: https://www.innerpeacetogo.com/ Story: https://www.ace.aaa.com/publications/travel/awe-inspiring-experiences.htmlBook Referenced: Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher Keltner CTA: What was your most awe-inspiring travel moment? Tell us in the comments! 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

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. She’s back to share five expert tips that will turn your casual snaps into scroll-stopping memories. When it comes to visually telling stories about travel, her expert advice will help make your travel memories come back to life. You’ll learn why action brings your images to life, and how to prep for those blink-and-you'll miss-it travel moments. She shares the gear and mindset that separates a good photo from a great one. Juliana also shares her favorite trick for getting that magical “sunburst” effect in your sunset shots, plus the one thing she deletes most from her camera after every trip. What You’ll Learn: 01:00 The No. 1 game-changing secret to capturing dynamic images 03:49 The under-$30 gadget every travel videographer should own 05:30 How to slow down for that one perfect shot 06:30 The biggest mistake almost everyone makes on vacation 08:24 Why it’s about the moment, not the subject Connect with Juliana Broste: https://www.travelingjules.com https://www.instagram.com/travelingjules Is there a camera trick that completely changed the way you take photos and video? Share it in the comments! 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

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 travel, whether it’s through photography, video, or both. You’ll hear about Juliana’s top recommendations for travel tech, tips to avoid feeling overwhelmed by thousands of digital shots, and advice to tell a story, not just collect clips. From how to compose a photo to why editing authentically is important, this episode is full of info for both the casual traveler and the budding visual storyteller. What You’ll Learn: 03:14 The tip that will transform how you revisit your travels 08:13 The core elements of a compelling travel photo 13:56 Why starting with your story before you hit record is the secret to a better edit 15:05 Apps to help organize decades of travel memories 26:44 Why the best travel photo is the one you don’t take Connect with Juliana Broste: https://www.travelingjules.com https://www.instagram.com/travelingjules What are your favorite travel photo tips? Share them in the comments! 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

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 You’ll Learn: 1:22 The technology wow factor at Epic 1:53 Which ticket gets you the most perks 2:35 Where to stay 3:08 How to plan your days at Epic 4:36 The best seats on popular rides 5:51 Must-eat snacks to munch on 6:39 How to make the most of an afternoon drizzle 7:14 The most underrated experience Today, host Angie Orth is on location in Orlando with Epic Universe Theme Park Expert Jacqueline Dole. Dole is a frequent visitor to Orlando’s theme parks who shares up-to-date insider tips for visitors. Her writing has been featured in Travel + Leisure, Food & Wine, and Condé Nast Traveler. You’ll hear her top tips on when to visit and where to stay to make the most of your days. She shares her favorite attractions and lays out a plan of action for tackling the park that helps you avoid the lines and get the best seats on the most exciting rides. You’ll also hear about the park’s most popular snacks and which experience she thinks deserves more fanfare. Connect with Jacqueline Dole: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacquelinedole/ Website: https://www.jacquelinedole.com/ Which snack are YOU most excited to try at Epic Universe? Tell us in the comments! 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

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, and the simple safety net that could save your entire trip investment. What You’ll Learn: 03:39 The "what could go wrong" scenarios you never considered 09:35 Daniel's $3,000 hospital nightmare in Punta Cana 16:57 What 2020 taught us about travel priorities 28:15 The "Taylor Swift Effect" on the travel industry 40:10 The one travel rule that offers instant peace of mind Today, host Angie Orth welcomes Daniel Durazo from Allianz Partners, a travel insurance expert with decades of industry experience. He helps guide travelers through protection strategies and shares insights from Allianz's annual Vacation Confidence Index. You’ll learn essential strategies for protecting your travel investment and hear real-world examples of when travel insurance becomes a financial lifesaver. You’ll also hear about current travel trends, like “bleisure”, “The Taylor Swift Effect”, and “micro-cations”. Connect with Daniel Durazo: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danieldurazo/ CTA: Have you had a travel emergency where insurance saved the day? An experience where you wish you’d had it? 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-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises