Well-Traveled with AAA: Recent Episodes
The Auto Club Group
Whether you’re planning your next travel adventure or just taking time out to dream of faraway places, Well-Traveled with AAA features stories and tips from travel experts from around the world. Hear the sound of howler monkeys in the Amazon, learn the secrets of Machu Picchu, or travel down the Danube. Every month you’ll experience a new destination. Well-Traveled with AAA is a production of the Auto Club Group.
October 15, 2024 ~ Are you ready for a journey filled with spooky tours and unique adventures? Join Steve Murphy, business development manager for Club Adventures, as he takes you on an exciting ride from the eerie realms of Transylvania to the mystical landscapes of Mexico, including the vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations. Tune in and let your next adventure begin!
September 17, 2024 ~ Inspired to visit Paris from recent events? Interested in visiting but not sure where to begin? AAA invites you to learn more about the city of light and other exciting Parisen destinations with the France Tourism Board expert, Anais Lecuyer. Whether you’re planning your next trip or simply dreaming of the possibilities, this podcast will ignite your wanderlust and provide invaluable insights into the beauty and culture of France.
August 20, 2024 ~ Travel can be a joyful, relaxing adventure, and it can also include the occasional mishap. Today's guests know the value of having travel insurance on your cruise to help you manage the mishaps and bring peace of mind to your travel. Listen in as Dan Durazo, director of external communications for Allianz, and Debbie Haas, VP of travel for AAA The Auto Club Group, share their personal experiences and insights on travel insurance.
July 16, 2024 ~ Embark on a journey to South Africa, where the reality of being there far exceeds expectations. Listen in as Sherwin Banda, president of African Travel, Inc., delves into the vibrant wildlife, delectable cuisine, and rich cultural heritage of South Africa. Learn about tailor-made luxury safari experiences and the untamed beauty of the African wilderness, where each moment becomes an inspiration.
June 18, 2024 ~ When you hear expedition travel, you might be surprised to hear the word luxurious used along with it. Listen in as Maxine Gundermann, senior manager of Seabourn Cruise Line, shares travel stories from her recent personal experience on an all-inclusive expedition to Antarctica. Learn about expedition cruising in style, from personalized service to world-class dining and immersive experiences, in one of the most remote destinations in the world.
May 21, 2023 ~ Interested in taking a train journey of a lifetime? Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a new rail adventurer, you can experience exceptional accommodations, fine dining, and impeccable service, all while taking in breathtaking views and exploring iconic destinations around the globe. Listen in as Jim Marini, a train travel expert and executive of Railbookers Group, shares his insights about train travel itineraries and travel styles, with insider tips on famous trains and personal stories of his family’s rail travel experiences. From destinations in the USA, Canada, Europe, iconic Switzerland, and Peru, there is seemingly no limit to all you can see and do on the rails.
April 15, 2024 ~ Expert solo traveler, and AAA’s own, Jasmin Lankford, sets out on a guided vacation and discovers the many benefits and personal rewards that come along with this style of travel. She’s inspired to share her personal experiences and now looks forward to joining more of the hundreds of curated guided itineraries options that are available across all seven continents.
March 19, 2024 ~ In a captivating episode, Debbie Haas and Chris Wommer of AAA The Auto Club Group recount their enchanting journey through Ireland. They revel in the country’s famed hospitality at a local pub, delve into traditions, and receive a majestic welcome at Ashford Castle. They engage in activities from falconry to historical explorations, savoring high tea and Irish delicacies. The duo also marvel at Ireland’s natural wonders, from the Cliffs of Moher to the Wild Atlantic Way. Join us as we unravel the many authentic experiences you can find in this beautiful country
February 20, 2024 ~ The romance of train travel has become so cinematic that for decades now, movies have tried to capture its allure. What many may not know however, is that magic can readily be seen and experienced aboard the rails in real life, and its enchantment factor only depends on what train you ride and what route you choose. Serving as our conductor today is one who is well-versed in the beauty of riding the rails, Rocky Mountaineer Train Manager Chris Woods.
January 16, 2024 ~ When picturing a river cruise, many might envision ancient castles, quaint villages, and lush vineyards, all while the soothing sounds of symphonic strings give background to the scene. But wait, there’s more! These days, river cruising has evolved to go beyond the expected, offering holistic experiences that attract and cater to the diverse preferences of today’s discerning voyager. Joining in to keep us current on the new and unique in river cruising is longtime industry veteran, AmaWaterways Senior Vice President of Sales Alex Pinelo.
December 19, 2023 ~ Especially around this time of year, everyone needs a weekend escape. What’s better than a getaway that includes lovely accommodations, a variety of dining establishments, in-house entertainers, expansive recreation facilities, and transportation to idyllic beaches? A weekend cruise is hard to beat! Join us as The Auto Club Group Product Manager Julio Soto, a seasoned expert in the travel industry, explores the weekend cruise and how it could be the perfect getaway.
November 21, 2023 ~ Way before there was a Jamestown or Plymouth colony, there was a St. Augustine, the oldest, continuously-occupied settlement in North America. Now known for an extensive historic district, teaming coastal habitats, and a unique cultural blend, the city has landed a spot on the latest season of “Samanta Brown’s Places to Love” on PBS. Join us as the Emmy Award-winning host shares some of her most fascinating experiences in this norther Floridian gem.
October 17, 2023 ~ Exploring the beauty of our world and navigating all its corners, cultures, and cuisines, should be something accessible to anyone who is interested. There have been strides to improve accessibility for those with disabilities with accessible staterooms, autism-friendly activities, and much more. Joining us on today’s episode is Royal Caribbean Director and Head of Disability Inclusion and ADA Compliance Ron Pettit, who has spent nearly two decades building a team dedicated to accessible travel.
September 19, 2023 ~ In the spirit of being the change that she wanted to see in the world, frequent-traveler Haley Woods put together a group on Facebook called “GirlsLOVETravel,” a space where women around the world could share details of their traveling adventures with one another. Starting at a modest thirty members, this group has now exponentially expanded to 1.4 billion members and is used as a resource for these women to meet one another worldwide. On today’s episode we get an exclusive chat with Woods about how this happened, the journey it has been, and the role social media had in making this group such a massive success.
August 15, 2023 ~ More and more, we desire for our travels to lead us into immersive and local experiences where we can get beneath the surface of the city. However, when we are abroad for only a short time, we do not always have the bandwidth to discover these things on our own. This is where insider intel can make all the difference, and joining us today is The Travel Corporation Sustainability Manager of Travel Experiences Lucie Dalila, who has gone deep into the cultural fabric of countless amazing places.
July 18, 2023 ~ For all the joys and wonders that travel may bring us, there is also the occasional surprise. This is where we ask the question; to insure or not to insure? Helping us answer this today is Allianz Partners Director of External Communications Dan Durazo.
July 18, 2023 ~ When you picture a traditional cruise in your mind, chances are you envision a ship surrounded by the vast ocean. In contrast to this, a river cruise can place you nearly anywhere else, ranging from bustling European capitals to ancient outposts on the Nile to the dreamy backwaters of Columbia. Here to help us navigate these ever flowing and endless possibilities is a true pioneer of the river cruising world, AmaWaterways Co-Founder and Executive Vice President Kristin Karst.
June 20, 2023 ~ When the family that’s been more or less everywhere is unanimously amazed by a place, something magical is clearly going on. That’s precisely what happens in the latest season of “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love” on PBS. As Samanta says, “I’m taking a trip that’s on everyone’s must-do list … one that is so good, with so many life-changing experiences, I couldn’t possibly do it alone.” Here to tell us of her family exploration of Alaska’s Inside Passage is Emmy Award-winning host, Samantha Brown.
May 15, 2023 ~ For many people, Florida is practically synonyms with family travel, and the theme parks are a major factor of that. If you think the only kind of thrills that kids can experience in Florida are on a rollercoaster, drop tower, or simulator ride, then today’s episode is going to expand your horizons – and family photo ops – exponentially. Picture swimming with manatees, lunching with astronauts, and all sorts of memory-making experiences in between. Joining us this week to guide us through some of the best possibilities is Visit Florida Director of Global Marketing and Trade Lauren Shoaf Pace.
April 18, 2023 ~ Everyone from Euripides to Dr. Seuss has framed travel as a kind of education. Travel provides kids with a sense of connectiveness, fueling wonder, empathy, and creativity, while making memories that last longer and go a lot farther than just whatever is on the tablet. Joining us for some insight on traveling with your children are Family Travel Association Director of Research Peter Bopp, and Shannon Jones, author of the acclaimed series of children’s travel books, “KeeKee's Big Adventures.”
MaRCH 21, 2023 ~ Adventure travel—what does it really mean? Is it more than ziplines and mountain treks? Join us for an exploratory conversation about adventure travelling with expert Steve Murphy of Club Adventures. You may discover that you too are an adventure traveler!
February 21, 2023 ~ Certain places are so surreal, so aw-inspiring, and so humbling, that they’re worth traveling to the ends of the world for. For some travelers, scenes of polar bear families lazing on ice floats come to mind. Others might picture rainbow-colored mega iguanas clustered on uninhabited islands. No matter what world wonder you’ve dreamt of seeing, odds are that today’s guest has reached it by sea. Listen in as Silver Sea Cruises Senior Director of Global Expedition Sales Karl Kannstadter brings you just some of the amazing possibilities.
January 17, 2023 ~ You may have the longing to venture distant destinations and visit faraway lands, but with a world that is abundant with beautiful possibilities, where do you begin? Join us as Alexander + Roberts’ President Scott Avera shares his intel on what is trending in travel now, specifically in the Middle East, North Africa, and Japan. From the expansive sand dunes of the Sahara to the Kabuki Theatre of Kyoto, Scott’s experienced insights about these regions and cultures will make you want to have your passports ready and bucket lists in-hand.
December 15, 2022 ~ There are certain things you may never have dreamed of doing, simply because you never could have imagined them in the first place. These unbelievable sights might make you doubletake, like sailing by swimming elephants who are using their trunks as snorkels, floating through produce vendors operating out of wooden canoes, or bobbing by towering pharaohs that seem to survey you from 3,000-year-old posts. In the world of river cruising, sights like these are very much a reality, and precisely the sort of things that today’s guest likes to share with others. Listen in as AmaWaterways Co-Founder and President Rudi Schreiner shares some of the most amazing river cruise experiences to be found along the waterways of Africa, Asia, and South America.
November 15, 2022 ~ Sampling Texas barbecue, New York delis, Puerto Rican plantains, and more, are all experiences Samantha Brown is happy to deliver to her audience. On this edition, the host of Emmy Award-winning PBS program, “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love” returns to “Well-Traveled with AAA” to preview her show’s fifth season, while showcasing some of the nation’s best breweries, bakeries, restaurants, and specialty shops.
October 18, 2022 ~ When you travel, you typically have some idea of the people who will be joining you. Perhaps your family, your partner, a handful of friends … even like-minded strangers on a group tour. Every so often however, when you get to your hotel, someone may turn up out of the blue. Or more to the point, out of another dimension. Today’s guest already knows something about that. As director of sales and marketing for the Best Western Plus Windsor Hotel in the storied town of Americus, Georgia, Divya Patel represents a beautiful property that’s briming with not only historical significance, but also … reportedly … turn-of-the-century ghosts.
September 20, 2022 ~ The freedom to travel and experience the world is one of life’s greatest privileges, but alongside this gift there comes a great responsibility. To truly treasure and sustain this gift, we must remain diligent to protect the world that we are so keen to explore. This episode, we are joined by guests that are major proponents of this responsibility. They are AAA - The Auto Club Group Vice-President of TravelandTourism Cares Board Member Debbie Haas, as well as The Travel Corporation Chief Sustainability OfficerandHead of TreadWright Foundation Shannon Guihan.
August 16, 2022 ~ With all due respect to the full range of travel options, there’s a singular joy to seeing Europe from a river ship. Floating through its villages, vineyards, and valleys, voyagers get to feel as much a part of the scene as an observer of it. Few people know the ins and outs of that experience as well as today’s guest. Joining us with insights, tips, and stories from the Danube to the Douro is AmmaWaterways Co-Founder and President, Rudi Schreiner.
July 19, 2022 ~ From the largest sub-tropical wilderness in the US, to the one preserve that combines two distinct American deserts, our national parks have made for some of the most stunning and fascinating backdrops of “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love” on PBS. We speak with the Emmy Award-winning host of that program for a look at the seemingly endless wonders that our nation’s treasured national parks have to offer.
June 21, 2022 ~ This week’s “Well-Traveled" takes you on a tour of destinations across the great American South. Preview the historic grounds of the famed Biltmore Estate in Asheville, South Carolina, ready your pallet for the spirited tastes being crafted in Kentucky’s bourbon country, and discover new ways to enjoy the storied charm of the picturesque riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas. Experience this and more with this week's guest, Samantha Brown, the Emmy Award-winning host of PBS' “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love.**”
May 17, 2021 ~ For anyone seeking a little inspiration to get back out there and start exploring the United States, there is no better guide than this month’s guest, the Emmy Award-winning host of PBS’ “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love,” Samantha Brown. Season five of the program has been dedicated exclusively to the US, where vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and the call of the open road offer up endless opportunities for exploration. On this edition of “Well-Traveled,” we focus on Sam’s northern stops, with highlights of can’t-miss attractions in Boston, the Jersey Shore, and New York, among others.
April 19, 2022 ~ In the grand literary tradition of adorable animal characters who introduce enthralled kids to fun spots around the world comes one particularly intrepid calico cat that stars in her own picture book series, “KeeKee’s Big Adventures.” KeeKee’s next big adventure finds her leaping from the pages of fiction to star as mascot for a series of AAA Travel initiatives aimed at helping parents perfect the family travel experience. Join us as we preview just some of these valuable insights with “KeeKee’s Big Adventures” creator, Shannon Jones.
March 15, 2022 ~ When you describe a place that’s magical, you’re probably using a figure of speech. One possible exception is Ireland. Towering seaside cliffs, rolling emerald-green landscapes, and evocative ancient architecture are just part of what make this magical land a reality. Ready to experience the luck of the Irish? Join us as we preview the culture, cuisine, cities, and countryside of the fabled Emerald Isle with Brendan Vacations expert and Ireland native, Sarah Hamilton.
February 15, 2022 ~ Whether you looking for a romantic escape for two, a long overdue family vacation with the kids, or an opportunity to reconnect with friends you haven’t seen in a while, an all-inclusive resort might be the one-stop worry free destination you’re looking for. But how do you find the right one for you, and what should you be on the lookout for when selecting your resort escape? Join us as we explore the variety of all-inclusive options with Pleasant Holidays Director of National Accounts, Chanda Vudmaska.
January 18, 2021 ~ When you think of Switzerland, soaring Alpine peaks, quaint storybook villages, and ridiculously delicious chocolates are just some of the things that might pop to mind. While any one of these could make for an amazing trip, they’re just the start of what’s on offer in this magical mountainous enclave. Preview the sites and activities – both in the country, and in those just a short ride away – with Switzerland Tourism Director of the Americas Claudio Zemp.
December 21, 2021 ~ Bundled up under your coat and scarf, with a cup of hot mulled wine or cocoa for a hand warmer, you find yourself wondering down cobbled lanes lined with twinkle-lit chalets, each overflowing with handmade treats and treasures. By any standard, a Christmas village experience is magical, with destination choices that dot Europe from November through December. But which destinations top the list, and what are the attractions you should not miss while you’re there? Start your tour here, as we speak with European holiday time expert Samantha Brown, the host of PBS’ Emmy Award-winning “Places to Love With Samantha Brown.”
November 16, 2021 ~ Time was, the term “independent traveler” conjured up images of overstuffed backpacks, under-stuffed hostel pillows, and a world’s worth of word-of-mouth bargain recommendations. While there will likely always be explorers who roll that way, independent travel has come to mean and include so much more. Hear the joys of independent travel – and get some great tips too – from the Emmy Award-winning host of PBS’ “Places to Love,” Samantha Brown.
October 19, 2021 ~ The recent global pause showed us many instances of nature re-staking it’s claim. Reduced boating pollution giving way to jellyfish serenely swimming in the canals of Venice. South African lions napping in a road free from its usual bustling traffic. The white peaks of the Himalayas visible for the first time in decades through the typically toxic skies of Uttar Pradesh. These occurrences and more are sparking a renewed interest in sustainable travel. But do we have the will and the resources to balance environmental and sociocultural preservation with the economic impact of tourism? Get the answers and learn the green future of travel with the Emmy award-winning host of PBS’ “Places to Love,” Samantha Brown.
September 28, 2021 ~ We all have in our cinematic minds a taste of international rail travel. The intrigue of the Orient Express, the romance of the Budapest to Vienna route in “Before Sunrise,” and the fantasy of the Hogwarts Express over Glenfinnan Viaduct, to name a few. But when your rail journey moves from the realm of the imaginary to real life, that’s when the true magic begins. Get on track with some of these unforgettable experiences with Krystle Sampson of Rocky Mountain Mountaineer, and Jim Marini of Amtrak Vacation and Rail Bookers.
September 21, 2021 ~ When most picture rail travel in the states, towering red rock canyons, scenic ocean views, and breathtaking mountain vistas might not immediately pop to mind. These are however in fact just some of the epic experiences that await you alongside the nation’s rail system. Preview these and more with train travel experts Krystle Sampson of Rocky Mountain Mountaineer and Jim Marini of Amtrak Vacation and Rial Bookers.
August 17, 2021 ~ There’s no one reason people fall in love with cruising. Value and variety are just a few, with options that are right for families, couples, and friends, and a seemingly endless selection of exotic and inspiring destinations. But if you’ve never cruised before, or if it’s been some time since you’ve set sail, then what are the right options for you? We ask industry expert John Chernesky of Princess Cruises to preview for us modern cruising, with some insider tips that will help you plan an unforgettable voyage.
July 20, 2021 ~ Alaska offers a magnitude and magnificence that tests the limits of language. The US’ tallest peeks, largest coastline, biggest national forest, and only artic territory. Preview a life-altering visit to The Great Land with Holland America Lines Senior Director of Consumer Programs Bill Fletcher.
June 15, 2021 ~ Beaches packed with waddling penguins, bus-sized whales leaping from the waters, and coves filed with other worldly ice are just a few of the sites that await you on Earth’s southernmost continent. Preview these and other Antarctica attractions with American Polar Society Board Member and travel expert Denise Landau.
Tuesday, May 18, 2021 ~ Epic scenery spans the Centennial state, from vibrant red rock canyons to the majestic peeks of the Rocky Mountains. Getting by on natural beauty alone however clearly isn’t Colorado’s style. Join Samantha Brown, Emmy Award-winning host of PBS’ “Places to Love With Samantha Brown,” as she previews for us just some of the culture, attractions, shopping, and cuisine that keeps travelers returning time and time again.
April 29, 2021 ~ It’s a globetrotting style that goes by many names: group tours, escorted vacations, and guided group travel, to name a few. Odds are you haven’t tried it in a while, or ever for that matter. The options however are growing, with thoughtful and innovative new ways to discover destinations together. Join Travel Corporation Director of European Operations Gillian Cattrall and Professional Development Manager Nikki Cakebread as they guide you through some of the World’s most unforgettable group travel experiences.
April 29, 2021 ~ Travel Corporation Director of European Operations Gillian Cattrall and Professional Development Manager Nikki Cakebread talk about travel in the post-COVID era, with details on what travel providers are doing to help keep guests safe.
April 21, 2021 ~ Join us as we experience a day in the life of a river cruise, a unique kind of voyage that puts you right in the heart of the places you’re visiting. These cultural excursions take you from wondering the local lanes and immersing yourself in the local culture, to relaxing shipboard as majestic castles, bountiful vineyards, and charming villages drift in and out of view. Ready to set sail?!? Preview the options with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises CEO Ellen Bettridge.
March 24, 2021 ~ Family travel means reconnecting with loved ones; both ones you see every day, and those you haven’t seen in a while. As we move past the experiences of 2020, these kinds of trips are sure to mean more than ever. Join Samantha Brown, Emmy Award-winning host of PBS’ “Places to Love with Samantha Brown,” as she puts her years of travel experience behind helping your family connect like never before.
March 3, 2021 ~ Join guest Samantha Brown, host of the Emmy Award-winning “Places to Love with Samantha Brown” on PBS, as she introduces us to some of the most intriguing women she’s met on the road, yet off the beaten path. From a dancehall darling in Texas, to a beading genius in Baltimore, to the kiwi queen of competitive costuming, these women shine all types of fabulous from destinations across our globe.
February 10, 2021 ~ If you’re a fan of paintings, sculptures, historic artifacts, or just about anything else that can be displayed in an exhibition, odds are your next trip will include a visit to a museum. Join Samantha Brown, Emmy Award-winning host of “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love,” as she highlights some of her favorite museums, then takes us beyond to see the instillations, studios, and artisan shops that make each destination truly unique.
January 20, 2021 ~ Thanks to a star-turn in “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of The Rings,” we all have in our imaginations what New Zealand might be. When you’re there in person however, the landscapes are even more other-worldly. Join Samantha Brown, Emmy Award-winning host of PBS’ “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love,” as she previews majestic mountaintops ringed with waterfalls, quaint vineyards by the sea, and dreamy boat rides that take you to the seeming ends of the Earth, and back.
Monday, December 14, 2020 ~ A small country with outsized beauty, Switzerland is the kind of place that lets you experience alpine peaks, glistening lakes, and medieval city centers, all in a single day. Join Emmy Award-winner Samantha Brown, host of PBS’ “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love," as she tours us through some of her favorite Swiss** experiences and insider finds.
November 16, 2020 ~ Go beyond the palm-lined streets, laid-back vibes, and epic sunsets of the Florida Keys to discover a vibrant local life that few visitors get to experience. Join Samantha Brown, Emmy Award-winning host of PBS’ “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love,” for a look at the most amazing Florida Keys experiences you may otherwise never have known existed.
October 19. 2020 ~ Looking for a frightfully fun escape?!? Join Samantha Brown, Emmy Award-winning host of PBS’s “Places to Love,” as she takes us to some spook-tacular vacation destinations. Stops include a haunted hotel in the Scottish Highlands, a hair-raising cemetery in Savannah, Georgia, and a spirited old jail in Charleston, South Carolina.
September 21, 2020 ~ Food allows us to connect to cultures in wonderful ways. This week, Emmy Award-winning travel host, Samantha Brown takes our taste buds on a trip around the globe for a look at foods that comfort, as well as ones that take us out of our comfort zones.
September 8, 2020 ~ From its low country delicacies to its high-flying spires, Emmy Award-winning television host Samantha Brown takes us on a tour that helps us understand why Charleston South Carolina has been consistently voted one of the best small towns in America.
August 12, 2020 ~ From the Eastern Seaboard’s tallest mountain, to the nation’s oldest intact wooden shipyard, with lobster, blueberry pie, and microbrews dotting the landscape in-between. In this edition of “Well-Traveled with AAA,” Emmy Award-winning PBS host Samantha Brown takes us to Maine for an insider’s take on one of Earth’s most iconic coastlines.
Wednesday, July 15, 2020 ~ Majestic redwoods, miles of coastline, and a bounty of farmland, orchards, and vineyards are just some of the attractions that await you in Sonoma County. In the edition of “Well-Travelled with AAA,” correspondent Samantha Brown, host of PBS’ “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love,” lets us in on the must-see attractions and experiences of this northern California jewel.
Celine Cousteau defies easy categorization. Filmmaker. Explorer. Public speaker. Storyteller. Spokesperson. As she says, “the method varies, but the message is the same.” And that message is about connecting people to each other, and our environment.
More than three hundred million people visit our country’s national parks every year. Explore experiences in America’s Western National Parks, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Yellowstone, and the Black Hills of South Dakota.
April 20, 2020 ~ "Well-Traveled with AAA" Contributor Samantha Brown brings us the sites, sounds, and tastes of Miami. Have a glimpse of the area’s art and culture, learn where to get the city’s best Cuban-inspired cuisine, and find the sun-drenched beach that’s just right for you.
April 1, 2020 ~ On part two of our journey through Africa, travel expert, Kevan Cowie from African Travel takes you gorilla tracking in the mountains of Rwanda and Uganda. We’ll also visit the island of Madagascar, where more than 85% of the animals and plants are found nowhere else on earth. Plus, we’ll hear the stories of the varied tribes, cultures, and personalities that make your trip to Africa complete.
On this edition of “Well-Traveled with AAA,” Kevan Cowie from African Travel shares the best ways to experience Africa’s Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, African buffalo, and rhinoceroses. We’ll also look at some of the continent’s most unique craft collectives, plus historic attractions, and some truly unique resort destinations.
Correspondent, Samantha Brown takes us to Vienna for a preview of the sights, culture, and tastes that await you in one of Europe’s greenest and most walkable cities.
Discover the beauty of North America in your own backyard. Whether your staring up a thousand foot canyon walls or down a thousand of earth inspires natural amphitheaters, the awe inspiring of National Parks is essential boundless. Discover the beauty of North America in your own backyard.
Imagine traversing an ancient, storied waterway in a floating boutique hotel. Watching castles, villages, vineyards, farms and scenic landscapes drift by. Periodically, you pull into the very heart of a place to have a look around, whether on a guided walking tour, in a family-run cooking class or on a laid-back bike ride.
"Well-Traveled" Correspondent, Samantha Brown, host of the Emmy-winning PBS program, “Places to Love,” discovers more than just sunshine and desert in Arizona’s capital city.
This was taken from our interview with Trafalgar French travel expert Marie Dubois, which you can find on the Well-Traveled with Triple-A feed on iTunes and Spotify. We hope you’ll rate us or leave a comment and let us know what you think.
Wondering how you can immerse yourself like a local while in Budapest? In this episode of Well-Traveled with AAA, travel expert Samantha Brown recounts her experiences of Budapests traditions - including which thermal spa to visit, the city's café culture, why locals never take coffee 'to go', and more local insights.
Listening to the music, laughter and conversation spilling out of the cafes of Montmartre. Smelling the fields of lavender, gently waving in the fields of Provence. Tasting a freshly-made croissant at a patisserie or a glass of wine at the vineyard. Seeing the beautiful colors of fruits, vegetables and flowers at a town square market. France is the place to indulge all of your senses. Marie Dubois is a travel director with Trafalgar, helping guests experience the very best of her native France, and we’re very glad to talk with her today to talk about her journeys.
TV Travel Host, Samantha Brown joins Well-Traveled with AAA as a recurring contributor. In this episode, Samantha talks about the journey of her career, why she loves telling the stories of her destinations, and what we can expect from the third season of her Public Television program, “Samantha Brown’s Places To Love.”
This was taken from our interview with Insight Vacations Greece travel expert Nedelisky, which you can find on the Well-Traveled with Triple-A feed on iTunes and Spotify. We hope you’ll rate us or leave a comment and let us know what you think.
From the time we’re children we learn the stories of the Greek gods and goddesses, we hear about Athens and Mykonos — the bleached white buildings against a sparkling blue sea. A trip to Greece means those things and so much more. Monasteries carved right out of the mountains. Kind, friendly people who love to share their culture with travelers. Food experiences from family-style seafood right on the beach to cosmopolitan restaurants in the city. Erin Nedelisky fell in love with Greece at a young age, and has made Athens her home since 1999. As a tour guide with Insight Vacations, she leads travelers on adventures from the islands to the mountains, introducing them to Greek culture all along the way.
This was taken from our interview with European travel expert Sabrina Tsimonidis, which you can find on the Well-Traveled with Triple-A feed on iTunes and Spotify. We hope you’ll rate us or leave a comment and let us know what you think.
Winding its way south from Germany to the Black Sea, the Danube river flows through some of the most beautiful cities, small towns and landscapes in Europe. Travel the Danube and experience historic Passau, at the border of Germany and Austria, with storybook views and winding old town alleys. Enjoy a night out in Vienna at the waterside “beach bars.” Sample Hungarian street food from a market in Budapest. Sabrina Tsimonidis guides travelers spring, summer and fall on the Danube, bringing a wealth of experience — and a love of the river and the communities along the way.
This was taken from our interview with Michelle Worthington about Scotland and the UK, which you can find on the Well-Traveled with Triple-A feed on iTunes and Spotify. We hope you’ll rate us or leave a comment and let us know what you think. I’m Abbie Kozolchyk. Thanks for listening.
For the traveler looking to experience world history and tradition first-hand or enjoy city nightlife, England and Scotland should be at the top of the list. During the day you can hear the sound of the wind blowing across the moor, smell the peat and the earth in a glass of whiskey, wander around medieval castles, or enjoy a traditional tea. At night, you can explore the trendy restaurants and bars of Edinburgh, one of the food capitals of Scotland, or dance all night in a London Club.
This was taken from our interview with Gianmarco Nagni, which you can find on the Well-Traveled with Triple-A feed on iTunes and Spotify. We hope you’ll rate us or leave a comment and let us know what you think.
To the north, Venetian lagoons. To the south, Mt. Vesuvius rising above the turquoise bay of Naples. Medieval villas with their characteristic walled cities spread across Tuscany’s rolling hills. Deep in the heart of Italy, as you drink wine made from the locals, life moves at a different pace. One where every night, dinner is lovingly prepared with ingredients freshly picked that day. Each region of Italy has its unique charms, customs, crafts and cuisine, and Trafalgar tour director Gianmarco Nagni is passionate about immersion in the many local flavors. He was born and raised in Rome, and has come to know all of Italy – always finding fresh perspectives and spirited people sharing specialties, secrets and stories.
This was taken from our interview with Insight Vacations tour director and Italian travel expert Anna Targett, which you can find on the Well-Traveled with Triple-A feed on iTunes and Spotify. We hope you’ll rate us or leave a comment and let us know what you think.
There are plenty of wonderful and famous places to visit in Italy — enough to fill a whole trip and then some. But what about the lesser-known Italy? The places that only a seasoned guide would know? Where the locals eat, and shop, and vacation. Sergio the gelato maker. The limoncello farm. Handmade textiles in Umbria. Salteno: the heel of the boot. We invited Insight vacations travel director and Italy expert Anna Targett to give us a glimpse at some of the lesser-known wonders of Italian travel.
Floating markets. Sacred islands. Houses rising from the water on stilts. One of the best things about cruising the Mekong is that local life happens right on the river—all around you. So whether you’re taking in the scene from the deck of your ship—or from the little wooden sampan or pedal-powered rickshaw that’s whisking you off to your day’s adventure—you feel fully immersed. Of course, in a region of jungle-shrouded temples, sparkling emerald rice paddies and layer upon layer of history, terra firma is just as absorbing, as Astrid Vedwijk can tell you. As an expert for Uniworld River Cruises, she’s been exploring Vietnam, Cambodia and the Mekong for years and she’s here to share her best stories and secrets.
Floating markets. Sacred islands. Houses rising from the water on stilts. One of the best things about cruising the Mekong is that local life happens right on the river—all around you. So whether you’re taking in the scene from the deck of your ship—or from the little wooden sampan or pedal-powered rickshaw that’s whisking you off to your day’s adventure—you feel fully immersed. Of course, in a region of jungle-shrouded temples, sparkling emerald rice paddies and layer upon layer of history, terra firma is just as absorbing, as Astrid Vedwijk can tell you. As an expert for Uniworld River Cruises, she’s been exploring Vietnam, Cambodia and the Mekong for years and she’s here to share her best stories and secrets.
This was taken from our interview with Alan Cook, which you can find on the Well-Traveled with Triple-A feed on iTunes and Spotify. We hope you’ll rate us or leave a comment and let us know what you think.
Picture yourself at Machu Picchu, entering the citadel along the same path as the Inca. Fly above the mysterious geoglyphs of Nazca and boat to the Ballestas Islands – where the incredible diversity of animals includes immense bird colonies, seals, penguins, and dolphins. Visiting the villages of Peru’s Sacred Valley and Altiplano, you'll be welcomed into family homes for amazing Peruvian food—one of the many local passions of Trafalgar tour coordinator Alan Cook, who's here to share his travel secrets with us.
Hillary Johnstone loves to travel — so much that she devoted her life to it full-time. As a tour director with Contiki, she is trained to guide travelers through more than 25 countries. But here are her favorites: Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Because of their close proximity to one another, it’s easy to experience three totally different cultures in one trip. Visit Spain — the birthplace of Flamenco. Enjoy portuguese custard tarts along lisbon’s dazzlingly tiled streets. Wander the markets of Marakkesh and immerse yourself in the colors, sights, sounds and tastes of another culture.
Hillary Johnstone loves to travel — so much that she devoted her life to it full-time. As a tour director with Contiki, she is trained to guide travelers through more than 25 countries. But three are her favorites: Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Because of their close proximity to one another, it’s easy to experience three totally different cultures in one trip. Visit Spain — the birthplace of Flamenco. Enjoy portuguese custard tarts along lisbon’s dazzlingly tiled streets. Wander the markets of Marakkesh and immerse yourself in the colors, sights, sounds and tastes of another culture.
We had the fortune of spending time with Hillary to hear about her adventures as a travel guide with Contiki, and what makes these three countries so special. Hillary Johnstone, welcome to Well-Traveled with Triple A.
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and magic of Ireland with native travel expert Catherine Reilly.
Visit Robben Island, learn about how a journey to Africa can change you, and find out some top tips on traveling to Africa from a Cape Town native.
When you picture Africa, what do you see? Herds of wildebeest, zebra and giraffe ambling across wide-open grasslands? Mama elephants hosing down their babies in acacia-lined waterholes? Remote villages where ancient tradition is still the norm? Modern metropolises blessed with beaches, mountains and a constant presence on world’s-best-city lists? Africa is all that and infinitely more. Join us as we discuss wildlife, culture, vibrant cities, and conservation of this diverse continent.
Meet a colorful mayor who delivers a real cowboy experience, learn about the art of Navajo Taco’s and uncover some tips on the best wildlife viewing in America’s Western National Parks.
Experience the Amazon, a world like no other that is changing from hour to hour and minute to minute. Learn the how all of your senses come alive when visiting this ecosystem.