OnTravel.com: Recent Episodes
Lasley/Harryman
Travel the world with Paul and Elizabeth Lasley through podcasts filled with insider know how and tips.
Join Elizabeth as she chats with American Queen Voyages' (formerly American Queen Steamboat Company) John Waggoner and learn how this U.S-based company was able to restart cruising in America after the long lockdown. The health and safety protocols the company established became a model for the bigger ships when they finally restored operations. Find out more about the wonders of river cruising in America's heartland and learn what you need to know to cruise safely.
Join Paul and Elizabeth for Part 4 of their Ohio River cruise aboard the American Queen Steamboat Company's (now American Queen Voyages) American Duchess. Learn about life on the river - what it's like to go through locks near small towns, where people line their cars and trucks up along the locks to get a glimpse of the riverboat. Ease along the river with Paul and Elizabeth, relaxing and listening to the gentle whoosh of the boat as it plies the water. And join them as they reminisce about the food aboard (pulled-pork sandwiches and sugar cream pie, anyone?) and entertainment by a talented and versatile team. Find out why life on the river can get into your blood.
Join Paul and Elizabeth for Part 3 of their enchanting Ohio River cruise aboard the American Queen Steamboat Company's (now American Queen Voyages) American Duchess. A highlight of the cruise for most passengers was a chance to attend the Kentucky Derby. Tune in as Paul and Elizabeth chat with Linda and Mike Graswick of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. They share highlights of what they describe as a "trip of a lifetime." Learn what it's like to get VIP treatment at Churchill Downs and find out things we'll bet you didn't know about this iconic event.. Also, find out what Paul and Elizabeth, and about 10 other passengers, did aboard the boat while others were at the Derby. You decide who had more fun.
Join Paul and Elizabeth for Part 2 of their adventure on the Ohio River aboard the American Queen Steamboat Company's (now American Queen Voyages) American Duchess. Learn how the rivers of America were "the country's first superhighways," as Riverlorian Bobby Durham says. And experience the fun of being part of The Great American Steamboat Race, an annual event on the river at Louisville, Kentucky. Several paddle wheel boats compete for the coveted Golden Antlers. (And cheating is not unknown.) Also, visit the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky, where you can hear live and recorded examples of this exciting country music genre.
Join Paul and Elizabeth as they cruise the Ohio River aboard the American Duchess, one of the paddle wheel riverboats of the American Queen Steamboat Company (now American Queen Voyages). Come aboard as they depart from Cincinnati and experience the wonder of river cruising in America's heartland. Discover the beauty of the port of Madison, Indiana, with more than 133 blocks of 19th- and early 20th-century structures. Paul and Elizabeth made this journey in spring, as COVID restrictions were beginning to be eased. Share the sense of freedom they encountered and learn about life on the river.
In this still COVID-cautious world, RV travel is increasingly popular. Retired U.S. Marine gunnery sergeant Brian Demo joins Paul and Elizabeth to share his expertise as a mobile Master RV technician. Brian regularly answers questions from RV owners and renters at JustAnswer.com and blogs at ourneverendingsummers.com. Whether you’re an RV enthusiast or are just considering RV travel, tune in to this show to find out what you need to know to make your RV vacation the best it can be.
Travel Solo Safely – a Conversation With Self-Defense Expert Nicole Snell
As travel opens up again, women are eager to get out and experience the world, and many want to travel solo. But concerns about personal safety are often a concern. You don’t have to be afraid to travel, says self-defense expert Nicole Snell, joining Paul and Elizabeth on this important podcast. But arm yourself with a self-defense course. Self-defense isn’t just for women, of course – there are classes for women, men, and children. Tune in to this show to learn how to defend yourself against would-be assailants. And how to avoid dangerous situations in the first place.
LuxeAdventureTraveler's Jennifer Dombrowski joins Paul and Elizabeth to discuss the European Union’s recent recommendation for EU countries to open their borders to vaccinated visitors. But what does that really mean? EU countries are still sovereign nations and set their own rules. France, Italy, and Spain are opening up, but how do you find out the different protocols? Jennifer helps you sort through the confusion. Plus, she reports on a new Bordeaux COVID-19 variant, and what it’s like in France as the country emerges from another lockdown.
TheTravelCamel’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth for the fourth installment in their series about Back to Nature Travel. This time, they take you to some of the world’s most spectacular canyons, gorges, and cliffs. Learn about one of Australia’s greatest natural wonders – that you might not have heard of – the Carnarvon Gorge in Queensland. Unlike much of the continent, the gorge is lush and vibrantly green, with stark escarpments. Also, experience America’s amazing Grand Canyon and Ireland’s massive Cliffs of Moher, and find Shane’s choice for the greatest walk in the world.
Allianz Travel Insurance’s Daniel Durazo joins Elizabeth to review how travel insurance has evolved during the time of COVID-19. What’s the latest information? Will travel medical insurance cover you if you become ill with COVID? Or have to quarantine? What things are typically NOT covered by travel insurance? Is “Cancel for Any Reason” insurance worth the extra cost? The answers might surprise you. Tune in to learn how you can best protect your vacation investment and what you need to know
LuxeAdventurerTraveler’s Jennifer Dombrowski, who is based in Bordeaux, joins Paul and Elizabeth to discuss what France’s opening to foreign visitors really means. French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that beginning June 9, France will welcome international visitors who have been fully vaccinated with approved vaccinations. But the country is just emerging from another serious lockdown. Curfews will still be in place; restaurants, shops and museums will still be operating at greatly reduced capacity; nightclubs will still be closed, and health passes might be required for certain events. Tune in to learn how to navigate all the complexities of visiting France during the time of COVID.
Cunard’s Jamie Paiko joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on two special voyages Cunard is offering in 2023 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of world cruising. Cunard, which pioneered scheduled trans-Atlantic crossings in 1840, also offered the first world cruise in 1922. Jamie shares what’s special about world cruising in general and about these voyages in particular. Plus, Cunard returns to Alaska in 2022 – what will that be like? Tune in to sail back into history and into the future with Cunard.
ThePointsGuy.com’s Gene Sloan joins Paul and Elizabeth to give you the latest updates on cruising. When will the CDC say it’s OK for big ships to cruise from U.S. ports? Will all cruise lines require vaccinations of their passengers? And where can you cruise? Several lines are offering cruises that depart from ports other than those in the United States. Tune in to find out what you need to know to make your future cruise plans.
TheTravelCamel’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to celebrate the joys of exploring forests and jungles. The Japanese call it “forest bathing,” and immersing yourself in these green cathedrals can bring a wondrous calm. Inhale the aromas and sounds of the Australian forests. Delve into jungles and tropical rain forests to find a different experience that can be full of surprises. Shane has tips for when you venture out and offers some thoughts on autumn’s glorious arboreal artworks.
Everything-Everywhere’s Gary Arndt joins Paul and Elizabeth to celebrate the ancient Polynesian navigators who sailed much of the Pacific Ocean, using only traditional techniques. They navigated by the stars, the waves, the currents, and the clouds with amazing accuracy. In double-hulled voyaging canoes they sailed from what is now French Polynesia to the Hawaiian Islands, and Rapa Nui (Easter Island). In the 1970s, the Polynesian Voyaging Society (hokulea.com) began studying and reviving those ancient techniques, building open ocean voyaging canoes like the traditional ones. One of those, Hokule‘a, sailed from Hawai‘i to French Polynesia in 1976, and from French Polynesia to Rapa Nui in 1999. On both voyages, the crew used only the traditional navigational techniques, proving that those ancient voyages were possible. Gary also reveals the enormous cultural heritage the Moors brought to Spain and takes us to a place in Greece that allows no women.
Everything-everywhere’s Gary Arndt joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal fun facts about the world’s largest lottery. It’s El Gordo in Spain – and it’s been around since 1812. Find out what makes this lottery so popular, and how good your chances might be – yes, visitors can play! Plus, everyone knows about Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, put forth in his famous book On the Origin of the Species. Gary reveals that as Darwin was doing his research on the voyage of the HMS Beagle, he developed another theory with profound scientific significance – about the formation of coral atolls. Learn more about the world’s atolls and whether Darwin’s theory is complete by tuning in to this episode.
Award-winning travel journalist Don George joins Paul and Elizabeth to discuss his new eBook, Wanderlust in the Time of Coronavirus, available for free at GeoEx.com. “Travel is my religion,” Don has written. Find out what he means by that and learn how he coped during a year when travel was halted. Focusing on little things is important, says Don, who learned to “travel” in his own backyard. Don’s insights are instructive for us all as the world slowly returns to a time when travel is once again possible. What will post-pandemic travel look like? We can all learn from this writer’s experiences and reflections. One thing we’ve all probably gained from this desperate year is something that permeates Don’s work and outlook: gratitude. Join us for a conversation that’s about more than travel; it’s about life.
From lobster rolls to lighthouses, New England has myriad charms. NewEnglandInnsAndResorts.com’s Deborah Burns joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal some of the region’s most enticing offerings. What are some of the best road trip routes? How can you best plan your vacation to the area? How can you best experience these states’ rich history? And which quintessential New England experiences should you not miss? Tune in for an insider’s perspective on one of the world’s most beautiful places.
Carol Cabezas, president of Azamara, joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal what distinguishes this cruise line. In an age when many travelers are seeking authentic travel, Carol explains, Azamara’s philosophy of staying in ports longer and offering immersive experiences addresses that desire. Their 30,000-ton, 650-passenger vessels seem to be “Goldilocks” ships – large enough to offer a variety of activities, and small enough to be intimate. The line’s special ingredient, though, says Carol, are its people, its staff and crew. Tune in to learn more about a cruise experience you might not have imagined.
Holland America Line Master Chef Rudi Sodamin joins Paul and Elizabeth to toast National Food Faces Day, which was designated in the National Day Archives and celebrated in Rudi’s honor on April 6. Rudi creates Food Faces by combining natural ingredients like fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, and grains into artistic creations that resemble human faces in various – often hilarious – expressions. “It’s okay to play with your food,” says Rudi, who’s book Food Faces: 150 Feasts for the Eyes is a delightful inspiration to create your own fun Food Faces at home. Also learn about what makes Rudi's Sel de Mer restaurants on Holland America ships special, and get a preview of Rudi's Sea Grill, a restaurant aboard Carnival Cruise Line's new Mardi Gras.
Our tech guru and theme park insider James DeRuvo joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on what’s happening in Southern California as Disneyland, Disney’s California Adventure, Universal Studios Hollywood, and other parks prepare to reopen after a year of being closed. Learn what protocols are in place, how reservation systems work, and what you can expect if you decide to visit.
GoNomad.com’s Max Hartshorne joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the fun and affordability of Maine’s ski resorts. Saddleback Mountain and Sugarloaf in northern Maine are lesser-known gems with lots of local lore and typically plenty of snow into spring. Max also takes us to some of the world’s most fascinating walled cities with a look at Rich Grant’s GoNomad article that presents an amazing variety of walled cities – from Carcassonne France’s storied ramparts to the lava rock structures at Hawai‘i Island’s Place of Refuge.
LuxeAdventureTraveler.com’s Jennifer Dombrowski joins Paul and Elizabeth to share what it’s like to live in France during its challenging time of 6 PM to 6 AM curfews. Hope looms on the horizon, however, and Jennifer recalls the joys of visiting the Seychelles. Because the Seychelles have vaccinated all residents, it’s again open for tourism. Jennifer remembers her travels there before COVID, when she dove and snorkeled in pristine waters, discovered indigenous animals - such as a giant tortoise found only here - and relished the cuisine, crafted from local ingredients and incorporating the country's famous spices.
TheTravelCamel.com’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to explore the joys of climbing, hiking, and just admiring hills, mountains, and high tors. Historically, thinkers have always gone to the mountains to gain perspective or lift their consciousness. Today, mountains and hills can still take us to great heights of joy and wonder. Tune in to hear about some of Shane’s most memorable treks and how you can make the most of your next elevated adventure.
In this first in a series of podcasts with TheTravelCamel.com’s Shane Dallas about traveling in the outdoors, Shane joins Paul and Elizabeth to celebrate the wonders of water. Did you know that you can see a “moonbow” over Victoria Falls? Or when to see Yosemite Falls at their fullest? Or how to sense the power of Niagara in winter. Join this trio as they explore why being in, on, or near water never fails to refresh, relax, and reinvigorate us.
LuxeAdventureTraveler.com’s Jennifer Dombrowski joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal what it’s like to travel in France during a time when a 6 PM – 6 AM curfew is in effect. She takes us to Chamonix, at the base of Mont Blanc. What was it like to plan meals and activities around the curfew? How did Samoyed Coco react to her first encounter with snow? Join us as Jennifer introduces us to the beauty of the French Alps. And follow @cocotravelingsamoyed on Instagram!
Geoffrey Weill’s new book, All Abroad: a Memoir of Travel and Obsession, is reminiscent of some of the great travel literature of the 20th century, but with a 21st century sensibility. Geoffrey joins Elizabeth to discuss the obsession that has led him to more than 100 countries and allowed him to be witness to seminal events in history. What was it like to be in Israel a mere six weeks after the 6-Day War? What is it about the very act of going someplace that can create such complete pleasure? How has travel evolved over the decades? Spend a few moments with Geoffrey, a natural raconteur, and you, too, will find yourself in what he describes as “travel heaven.”
Tech guru James DeRuvo, alias “Tech Lord of the Known Universe,” joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal some really cool tech tools that can help you fend off COVID-19 at home and when you travel. How about a magic wand that eliminates 99 percent of germs and viruses with UV light? Or a straw that purifies water as you sip? And the best part? All of James’ suggestions are affordable, light weight, and packable. Tune in to learn more about these terrific tech tools.
Everything-everywhere’s Gary Arndt joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper. Many suspects were considered at the time of these gruesome murders in 1888 in London, but no one was ever convicted of the crimes. Now, DNA evidence suggests the killer’s identity, says Gary, who also reports on the Great London Beer Flood of 1814. Plus: What’s the world’s smallest country? And what’s the solution to the Monty Hall Problem? Tune in to learn more.
Award-winning journalist Janice Wald Henderson, whose specialties include cruising and food, joins Paul and Elizabeth to discuss the outlook for travel in general and cruising in particular, in 2021. Which countries are more likely to open up to international travel first? Which cruise lines are requiring vaccines and will that become more widespread? Janice reports that some luxury lines are doing innovative things on that front. Plus: What are the latest food trends for post-Covid dining? And – can chocolate really be good for you? Find out on this fun and information-filled podcast.
TheTravelCamel’s Shane Dallas Joins Elizabeth to reveal his top tips for taking great travel photos. Practice now, he says, while we’re all still staying close to home, by taking pictures of your region, your neighborhood, or even in your own house. Then, when we can all travel safely again, you’ll be ready to take some of the best photos of your life. Practice the Three Cs of photography, says Shane – tune in to learn about how to take great travel photos, and how being a better photographer, in turn, can make you a better traveler.
What’s ahead for cruising in 2021? Will you need a vaccination to get on a ship? And will there even be an Alaska cruise season this year? ThePointsGuy.com’s Gene Sloan joins Paul and Elizabeth to answer these and other questions on the minds of cruisers. COVID-19 cases are down, vaccines are up, but how soon – and where - will you be able to cruise this year? Tune in to learn more from one of cruising’s most expert commentators.
GoNomad.com’s Max Hartshorne joins Paul and Elizabeth to share more of the website’s top 10 travel stories of 2020. Visit Thomas Wolfe’s home in Asheville, North Carolina, a place you can visit, and about which Wolfe famously said, “You Can’t Go Home Again.” Discover a part of America you might not know about: the Palouse; see amazing photos taken from parking lots, and learn why you must visit Little Rock, Arkansas, and commemorate the struggle for social justice that took place at Central High School in 1957. Plus, Max shares previews of some amazing megaprojects around the world planned for 2021 and beyond.
Several travel trends have come about because of the pandemic. Paul and Elizabeth share their personal perspectives on which ones they hope will remain. If some of these stay - like airlines getting rid of change fees and people being more compassionate - the travel world will be a better place.
GoNomad.com’s Max Hartshorne joins Paul and Elizabeth to share the website’s top 10 travel stories of 2020. Topics range from not-to-miss places in Italy you’ve probably never heard of to sailing on a 1930’s-era yacht to discovering the private lives of some of country music’s biggest stars. Max reveals why these stories made the top 10 and takes us to destinations you’re going to want to consider in 2021.
TheTravelCamel.com’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal his secrets for getting the most out of your travels. We all know we should plan ahead, but what exactly does that mean when it comes to your trip? Shane discusses the questions you should ask – of yourself and about the destination - before deciding on certain things. He shares his tips, gleaned from experience, that will make your next trip rewarding and memorable.
Chez Chesak, executive director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, joins Paul and Elizabeth to explore how to explore the outdoors responsibly. Due to the pandemic more people are heading to national parks, and other outdoor areas, and many don’t know how to behave there. Trash is an increasing problem. Education is the answer, says Chez. Tune in to learn how to visit the outdoors, have a wonderful time, and still be environmentally friendly. Plus, get some great resources to access before you set out.
Tech guru James DeRuvo joins Paul and Elizabeth to discuss why Disneyland in Southern California has cancelled its annual passes and what that might mean for the future of annual passes and other things at Disney parks around the world. Plus, James reports on the latest developments in space tourism. You, too, might experience what the astronauts do in the not too distant future.
TheTravelCamel.com’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to discuss the travel outlook for 2021. Once vaccines are more widely available and more people have been vaccinated, travel is predicted to pick up. But what will it look like? What documentation will you need? What strategies should you have in place as you look ahead to taking trips? Shane offers sound advice on how to start planning now for future travel.
Everything-Everywhere’s Gary Arndt joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal more interesting facts about our universe. He tells about the Golden Record, which was placed aboard the Voyager space probes launched in 1977. It contains recordings of everything from Beethoven to Chuck Berry, ancient Sumerian greetings to whale songs, and has now left our solar system. Gary also take us to Hispania, the ancient Roman name for the Iberian Peninsula, and recounts the strange tale of the last Germans to surrender in World War II. (It took them a while to figure out whom to surrender to.)
GoNomad.com’s Max Hartshorne joins Paul and Elizabeth to celebrate one of the world’s most popular novelists, Patrick O’Brian, author of such classic seafaring sagas as Master and Commander and The Far Side of the World. Max reports on an article by GoNomad senior writer Rich Grant that reveals what life was like aboard those wooden vessels of yore, as well as showing where you can visit some of the ships from that era. Hartshorne also takes us to Lana‘i, a Hawaiian island with a rich, multicultural history, beautiful landscapes, and mystery. Parts of the island are said to be haunted, says writer Noreen Kompanik in the GoNomad article, and Paul and Elizabeth, who have visited several times, agree that Lana‘i is enchanting.
Everything-Everywhere’s Gary Arndt joins Paul and Elizabeth to answer these two compelling questions. Gutenburg’s invention was certainly revolutionary, but was he the first? The answer might surprise you. And the history of the Roman Empire has some interesting twists: One year saw four different emperors, and another, five! Why? Gary reveals fascinating insights into the past that will enhance your next visit once we can all travel internationally again.
What does a travel company do when people aren’t traveling? Perillo Tours’ Steve Perillo joins Paul and Elizabeth to celebrate what we all love about travel in general and Italy in particular. Steve’s passion for travel began with a trans-Atlantic crossing he took on an ocean liner when he was about 12 years old. Today, he heads up this 76-year-old company founded by his grandfather. Tune in to learn why Italy should be high on your list of must-visits when international travel returns.
Natalie Dietl of the State of Baden-Württemberg, Germany, and Victoria Larson, North American representative for the region, join Paul and Elizabeth to explore some of the area’s rich Christmas traditions. Christmas markets might be closed this year, but you can still experience concerts and other artistic events virtually. And you can make at home some of the traditional holiday cookies, like springerle and spitzbuben. Glühwein, anyone?
ThePointsGuy.com’s Gene Sloan joins Paul and Elizabeth to give the latest outlook for when cruising is expected to restart in 2021. Start dates keep getting pushed back – find out why. Plus, Gene reports on his own experience on a ship on which a passenger tested positive for COVID-19. What was it like to be in quarantine on a small vessel in a cabin with no balcony? Tune in to learn the latest prognosis for cruising’s return to health.
TheTravelCamel.com’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on highlights from World Travel Market Virtual, the huge business-to-business trade show that normally draws thousands to London each fall. This year, the event was held virtually. “Travelers need to feel confident and comfortable,” says Shane, noting that, finally, there may be some hope on the horizon. When it picks up again, though, travel might not look like what you think it will. Find out more by tuning in to this podcast.
Everything-Everywhere.com’s Gary Arndt joins Elizabeth for another eclectic discussion inspired by topics from Arndt’s Everything Everywhere Daily podcast. Why did Albert Einstein, arguably the most influential scientist of the 20th century, receive only one Nobel Prize when he assuredly deserved more? What are some of the secrets of Pablo Picasso’s success? And what’s the truth about one of the most widespread conspiracy theories of our time – the Illumanit? Is there – was there ever – such an organization? Learn the answers – and more – by tuning in to this fun and informative podcast.
Historical Sites that once might have given short shrift to the parts of their heritage that related to indigenous or enslaved people are expanding their narratives to tell more complete stories. Cordell Reaves, Historic Preservation Programs Analyst with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal what places are doing to broaden the discussion and how telling the stories of under-represented people enriches the travel experience for everyone.
Our Tech Guru, James DeRuvo, joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal his picks for the top holiday travel gifts for 2020. James, affectionately known here at OnTravel as “Tech Lord of the Known Universe,” has suggestions “for Him" and ”for Her,” and he has some Stocking Stuffers that will surely bring a smile to the face of anyone traveling with digital devices. The best news? Most are under $50, and our favorite – something that will organize all of our electronic cords and cables – costs a mere $9. Tune in for some last-minute gift ideas for the traveler on your list.
TheTravelCamel.com’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the Top 5 things he always packs when he travels. Some of these can also make perfect presents for the traveler on your holiday gift list. Tune in for some inspiring ideas to keep in mind for when we can all freely travel again.
ModernHiker.com’s Casey Schreiner, author of Discovering Griffith Park: A Local’s Guide, joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the secrets of one of the world's most exciting city parks - and, spanning more than 4,300 acres, one of North America's largest. Griffith Park has the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Griffith Observatory, and the Autry Museum of the American West. But that’s just for starters. Hiking and horseback-riding trails wind through the park’s hills and valleys, taking you to scenic outlooks and lesser-known sites. And the park’s history is wild enough to create fodder for a TV mini-series. Tune in for an entertaining treat.
GoNomad.com’s Max Hartshorne has so many great ideas for the traveler on your holiday gift list, they can’t all fit into one show. So, Paul and Elizabeth invite him back to share more of GoNomad’s suggestions for holiday presents you might not have considered. And he goes beyond things and shares some great travel experiences that can be wonderful gifts. A fun show to get us all into the holiday spirit.
GoNomad.com’s Max Hartshorne joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal some of the website’s top choices for the traveler on your holiday gift list. Max eschews the ordinary and seeks out fun, useful travel-oriented presents you probably haven’t thought of. He also shares some of the things he, himself, would like Santa – or his girlfriend – to bring him. Tune in and get some great holiday gift ideas.
Everything-Everywhere.com’s Gary Arndt joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the remarkable story of Srinivasa Ramanujan, the Indian mathematician many say was the greatest mathematician of the 20th century. Robert Kanigel chronicled his life in the 1991 book The Man Who Knew Infinity: A Life of the Genius Ramanujan, and a film based on the book came out in 2015 starring Dev Patel as Ramanujan and Jeremy Irons as British mathematician G.H. Hardy, with whom Ramanujan collaborated in England. Gary also takes us to Valencia, Spain, where the Holy Grail is said to reside in the Valencia Cathedral. Is the story of the grail simply the result of Arthurian legend, or is there some basis for the idea that this simple agate cup was the vessel Christ Jesus drank from at the Last Supper? Tune in to learn more.
Architect and Author Alan Hess joins Paul and Elizabeth to take us all behind the gates of some Hollywood stars’ homes designed by some of the 20th century’s legendary architects. Any of the 20 books he's written would make good holiday gifts, but his Hollywood Modern: Houses of the Stars is a standout. It celebrates some of Southern California’s most iconic homes and the movie stars responsible for them.
One trend that’s emerged from the pandemic is a new appreciation for travel agents. When travel screeched to a halt, travel agents proved their mettle, rebooking clients, getting them refunds, and getting them home if they were stranded abroad. Agent at Home’s Theresa Norton joins Elizabeth to reveal the public’s newfound awareness of and appreciation for travel agents and to discuss their increasingly important role in a post-COVID world.
Orange County, California, is one of the world's top visitor destinations. And its attractions go far beyond Disneyland. Robin Rockey, author of 100 Things to do in Orange County Before You Die, joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the OC’s lesser-known treasures. And the good news? You can experience many of them virtually – until we can all travel again for real.
Everything-Everywhere’s Gary Arndt joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on the backstory and progress on La Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s beautiful cathedral in Barcelona. And he takes us around the country to visit festivals, from running the bulls to drowning in tomatoes.
GoNomad.com’s Max Hartshorne joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on his visit to Wilmington, Delaware, the hometown of U.S. President Elect Joe Biden. Max shares some of the highlights he discovered in and around this warm and welcoming city. He takes us to the Hagley Museum and Library, the former home and gardens of the du Pont family; and to Longwood Gardens, a horticultural spectacular in nearby Kennett Square. Learn about ax-throwing, a helicopter museum, and more in this fun podcast about a city destined to become a visitor mecca for at least the next four years.
Travel journalist Terry Gardner joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on two recent trips she took – one by plane and one by train. Did the airline enforce its protocols? Was the train journey pleasant or stressful? What was the situation at the airports? Get this first-hand account of traveling during the pandemic and learn Terry’s tips for venturing out.
Everything-Everywhere.com’s Gary Arndt joins Paul and Elizabeth to tell the tale of Really Big Telescopes. From their humble origin in the hands of Galileo Galilei in 1610, they have changed our understanding of the universe. Where are today’s largest telescopes? Which ones can you visit? What about radio telescopes? Learn the answers to these and other questions, plus: the Great Molasses Flood of 1919 in Boston and other quirky stories Gary shares from his podcast Everything Everywhere Daily.
By instituting strict protocols, Bigfork Summer Playhouse in Bigfork, Montana, was able to have a successful, COVID-free season. The 61-year-old theater’s Brach Thomson joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal how they did it – practices that might be a good example for other entities. (Among other things, audience members had to wear masks and social distance.) Summer theaters hold a special place in the American psyche. Tune in to this lively discussion about a welcome success story.
Duncan Hogarth joins Paul and Elizabeth to introduce us to Brasada Ranch, a 2,000-acre resort near Bend, Oregon, that offers hiking, horseback riding, golf, and fishing amid rolling hills and pastures.
When you’re far away for the holidays, reminders of home become especially meaningful, says LuxeAdventureTraveler’s Jennifer Dombrowski, who joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal her gift suggestions for the expats on your holiday list. “Things that are nothing special normally can be really special for your expat,” she says. She recommends comfort foods you can’t easily or affordably get abroad, like chocolate chips, hot sauces, and canned pumpkin. Don’t send fresh produce or meats – only pre-packaged foods, she says, and be sure to abide by all the regulations. Jennifer also suggests some good gifts if you have a new puppy in the family – Jennifer and her husband, Tim’s new Samoyed, Coco, lists her favorites on her Instagram site: @cocotravelingsamoyed.
Sylke Neal-Finnegan joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the beauty, history, and culinary richness of Oregon’s Tualatin Valley. This scenic valley only about a 20-minute drive from Portland has long been at the forefront of the farm-to-table movement, and the Beaverton Farmers Market is one of the largest in the state. You can hike the region’s hillsides and go zip-lining through its trees. And three innovative theater companies offer entertainment. One even provides an immersive experience that plunges you into the heart of the action.
TheTravelCamel’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to unveil the Ultimate African Safari Guide. Shane, a safari veteran, gives his tips on what kind of safari to take – did you know you can take a walking safari or one on horseback? - how to choose a safari operator, and what to bring. And why is khaki such a popular color to wear? Join us as Shane shares the wonder and beauty of being on safari in Africa.
DiscoverKlamath’s Jim Chadderdon joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the diversity of Southern Oregon. Discover the 8,000-year-old history of the region’s Klamath tribes, culminating in the Modoc War of 1872/73. Travel the Rogue Valley Food Trail and stop at produce stands, wineries, and farm-to-table restaurants. And glory in live theater at Ashland’s Oregon Shakespeare Festival, offering plays virtually at www.osfashland.org until we can all travel freely again. For more info, check out www.SouthernOregon.org.
GoNomad’s Max Hartshorne joins Paul and Elizabeth to transport us all to the Middle Kingdom: China; and to the birthplace of golf: Scotland. Max takes us to China’s Hunan Province and its capital, Changsa, where Mao Tse Tung was born. Max also takes us climbing along amazing glass walkways high in the mountains and to the Hunan Museum, where lies the 2,000-year-old tomb and mummy of Xin Zhui, wife of a local governor during the Han dynasty. Next, we travel with Max to St. Andrews, Scotland, home of St. Andrews Links, where golf is said to have been played since the 15th century. GoNomad’s story reveals the St. Andrews beyond golf, including the town’s history, harbor, mild climate and great food. Join us for this fun adventure from East to West.
Tech guru James DeRuvo joins Paul and Elizabeth to share his insights into the new iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro. Are the cameras as good as they say? Is the 5G capability worth the cost? Get the info you need to decide if one of these phones is right for you. Plus, when, oh when, will Disneyland in Southern California reopen? Jim gives us the backstory.
LuxeAdventureTraveler’s Jennifer Dombrowski joins Paul and Elizabeth to a report on a road trip she and husband Tim took with their three-and-a-half-month-old Samoyed puppy, Coco, to Espelette, in France’s Basque country. The village is famous, says Jennifer, for the Espelette pepper, a mildly spicy pepper originally brought to France in the 16th century by sailors returning from South America. The region is also famous for Bayonne ham and a traditional cider. The normal harvest festivals were canceled this year due to COVID, but it’s not too soon to plan an autumn 2021 visit to this charming village. Plus, @CocoTravelingSamoyed gets her first look at sheep.
The Florida Keys’ Andy Newman joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on the fact that the Keys are open to visitors and welcome you. You have to wear a mask and practice proper protocols, but you’ll have plenty of fun. Visit the Turtle Hospital on Marathon, go sport fishing off Islamorada, and visit Hemingway’s former home in Key West. If you’re a certified scuba diver, you can help work to restore some of the coral reefs, says Andy, noting that the Keys have been a leader in coral reef preservation.
Even before the pandemic, travel insurance was becoming increasingly popular. Now, travelers are even more interested in learning about what it can and can’t do. Allianz Travel Insurance’s Daniel Durazo joins Paul and Elizabeth to explain the basics of travel insurance and show how it can help to protect your travel investment during these times. If you want to cancel a trip because of COVID-19 will you be covered? If you get COVID-19 on a trip, what happens? Will travel insurance cover you if you have a pre-existing medical condition? Tune in to learn the answers to these questions and more. Allianztravelinsurane.com.
TheTravelCamel’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the secrets of Southern Africa. Come along as Shane takes us to Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park, where leopards roam. And learn the fate of a young hippopotamus who wanders into a pride of lions – the outcome might surprise you. Shane also takes us to Victoria Falls - feel what it’s like to see a lunar rainbow there by the light of a full moon. Then explore Zimbabwe, where Shane unveils the wonders of Great Zimbabwe, or “Houses of Stone,” the 800-year-old wonder that’s the largest ancient building in Africa south of the Pyramids. And tag along on a road trip with Shane in Namibia and visit the Namib Desert, where, atop a sand dune, you just might spy the Atlantic Ocean.
Kirsten Schmidt joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal some exciting new ways to explore two of Germany’s most fascinating cities, Berlin and Hamburg. In Berlin, join a tour to discover lesser-known parts of the city or particular aspects, such as Jewish Berlin, Cold War Berlin, and even 1920s Berlin. In Hamburg, immerse yourself in the city’s 800 years of maritime heritage, including a flotilla of historic vessels. Travel virtually to both of these cities via their websites, and when you’re ready to fly to Germany, the new Berlin Brandenburg Airport awaits you.
Seatrade Cruise Global, the cruise industry’s largest annual conference, typically draws thousands of people to Florida each spring. This year, Seatrade went virtual, with some 13,000 attendees from around the world. ThePointsGuy.com’s Gene Sloan joins Paul and Elizabeth to share conference highlights and what some of the revelations mean for cruising’s future. When will large ships start sailing again from North American ports? What’s the future for small-ship lines like Atlas Ocean Voyages and American Cruise Lines? Will ships cruising Alaska be able to call at Canadian ports next summer? Tune in to get the latest insights and predictions.
Christopher Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises, joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the line’s current and future plans. Windstar pioneered small-ship cruising in 1984, when founder Jean-Claude Potier envisioned a departure from traditional cruising and launched a fleet of sailing ships that resembled private yachts. Today, the line also operates non-sail vessels, but all retain the hallmarks of the original concept: casual vibe, excellent cuisine, and personal service. Tune in to learn where this trend-setting line is heading next.
Streaming services are popular everywhere these days, and LuxeAdventurerTraveler’s Jennifer Dombrowski joins Paul and Elizabeth to fill us in on reactions to Emily in Paris. What do locals think about the way the French are portrayed in this Netflix series created by Sex and the City producer Darren Star? Regardless, the show, with its beautiful scenes of Paris will no doubt entice you to want to visit the City of Light. Also, Jennifer reports on the latest exploits of Coco, Traveling Samoyed, who celebrated her 3-month birthday with homemade, doggie-style versions of the Bordeaux specialty canelés.
GoNomad’s Max Hartshorne joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the delights of Cape Ann, Massachusetts. Max takes us to the artists' colony of Rockport, where a red fishing shack may be one of the art world’s most painted objects, and Essex, where Max says he had the best fried clams ever at Woodman’s of Essex, where the dish is said to have been invented. And Max shares the poignant history of Gloucester, the famous port where men went out to sea – too often, never to return – and their wives stayed home to watch, wait, and sometimes mourn. Tune in to learn about the joys of visiting what Max calls “New England’s other Cape” – not as famous, perhaps, as Cape Cod – but just as beautiful and just as rich with culture, history, and great seafood.
Vintage Partners’ Walter Crutchfield joins Paul and Elizabeth to introduce ARRIVE Phoenix, a new hotel created from two mid-50s office buildings in the city’s central part. A great example of adaptive reuse, the hotel capitalizes on its past to offer vintage touches such as vinyl record players and a 50’s-style cocktail lounge. Throughout, Walter says, there’s a spirit of fun and creativity. At check-in, you can choose a popsicle from 40 different flavors. Also check out VisitPhoenix.
With the cruise industry largely on hold for a while due to COVID-19, many older ships that were still in service are now heading for the scrap heap. But for many, cruise ships have souls, says Peter Knego of midshipcentury.com, chatting on this show with Paul and Elizabeth. One ship captain, says Peter, told him, “A little bit of people’s souls rub off on the ships.” Tune in for a fascinating look at this lesser-known aspect of the cruise industry – and also learn about some older ships that are getting new leases on life with smaller lines.
Larry Habegger, with Travelers’ Tales, joins Paul and Elizabeth to share information about some of the publishing company’s new releases, such as 100 Years of Exile: A Romanv’s Search for Her Father’s Russia. Tanya Romanov, says Larry, weaves the story of how her family fled Russia in 1920, during the Bolshevik Revolution, and eventually ended up in San Francisco. See how this and other exciting volumes can thrill you with travel’s wonders, even from your own living room.
LuxeAdventureTraveler’s Jennifer Dombrowski joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on the continuing exploits of Coco, her and husband Tim’s 11-month-old Samoyed puppy. Coco is discovering Bordeaux; she’s especially partial to the city’s parks and green spaces, reports Jennifer, who says the French adore dogs. Bordeaux’s Cap Sciences currently has an exhibition, “Chiens et Chats,” (dogs and cats), running through February 21, 2021. Tune in to this delightful show about seeing the world through your dog’s eyes. And follow Coco on Facebook and Instagram @CocoTravelingSamoyed.
Everything-Everwhere’s Gary Arndt joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the strange, true tale of The Lykov Family, who fled to Siberia in 1936 to escape the Soviet Union’s religious oppression. In 1978, a group of geologists found the family still in hiding there, not realizing the Soviet Union was no more. Learn more about this and other interesting phenomena – such as Who Invented Calculus? And what we all need to know about Fallacious Reasoning on this fun and informative podcast.
ThePointsGuy.com’s Gene Sloan joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on Sea Dream Yacht Club’s plans to start sailing in the Caribbean again in November – sooner than many thought cruising would return to the region. The CDC’s “no-sail” order remains in place for the United States, but these small, yacht-like ships will homeport in Barbados. The line plans to have in place the kinds of strict protocols and pre-boarding testing that have proven successful for MSC Cruises out of Italy. Tune in to learn about these developments in cruising.
TheTravelCamel’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to further explore East Africa. Learn what it’s like to see the gorillas in Rwanda – Shane recounts his “close encounter” and offers tips for getting most out of your visit. Glimpse Tanzania, famous for its natural beauty, says Shane, who shares his first view of Ngorongoro Crater as the mist lifted. Hear how traveling in Africa can change your perspective on the world.
TheTravelCamel’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the unexpected pleasures of East Africa. Come with us to Ethiopia, which prides itself as the only African nation never to have been colonized, and learn about the country’s ancient monasteries, its elaborate coffee ceremonies, and its regional specialty, shiro. And visit Somaliland, home to the vibrant, 20,000-year-old cave paintings of Laas Geel. Shane’s insights and understanding of the region make him the perfect guide.
It’s a fantasy many of us entertain: Get a small apartment in Paris, visit the local patisserie every day, live like a local. But what’s the experience reality like? Scott Dominic Carpenter joins Paul and Elizabeth to discuss his new book, French Like Moi: A Midwesterner in Paris, published by Travelers' Tales. Scott, who teaches French literature at Carleton College in Minnesota, bought an apartment in Paris in 2005 and lives to tell the tale. Tune in to get a preview of his delightful book.
LuxeAdventureTraveler’s Jennifer Dombrowski joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on the road trip she and her husband, Tim, took from Bordeaux to Burgundy to collect the newest member of their family, a 2-month-old Samoyed puppy named Coco. On the way, they stopped at the Chateau de Savigny-Les Beaune to not only sample wine but see the owners’ amazing collection of military planes, motorcycles, and racing cars, including Fiat Abarth prototypes. Tune in, and meet Coco, who has her own Facebook and Instagram accounts; you can follow her @cocotravelingsamoyed.
Douglas Ward, author of the Berlitz Cruising and Cruise Ships guide and Berlitz River Cruising in Europe and the USA, recently returned from a seven-day cruise around Italy aboard MSC Cruises’ MSC Grandiosa. He joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal what cruising is like during COVID-19. MSC has instituted strict protocols – including testing all passengers and crew in the terminal before boarding, mandating face masks and social distancing aboard, and daily temperature checks for everyone – that have resulted in Grandiosa’s sailing COVID-free. But what was it like? Did it feel like being on a hospital ship? How were the dining and entertainment experiences? Was it enjoyable? Learn the answers by tuning in to this fun and information-filled podcast.
Palm Springs, California, has one of the world’s greatest collections of mid-century modern architecture, and each year the city typically celebrates that heritage with Modernism Week in February, as well as a Fall Preview in advance of that. Architect and author Alan Hess joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal what’s exciting about this year’s Fall Preview, which is virtual. Starting October 15, you can get the Fall Preview Online Experience at ModernismWeek.com. Learn more about Palm Springs at VisitGreaterPalmSprings.com.
Susan Van Allen’s book 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go is out in its 10th anniversary edition. Susan joins Paul and Elizabeth to celebrate Italy’s artistic and culinary wonders and to share some wonderful things to do in the country in autumn. Fall means grape and olive harvests – learn how you can participate. Now’s a great time to plan your next trip to Italy.
TheTravelCamel’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to extol the wonders of North Africa. Visit Egypt, one of the cradles of Western civilization – a country that embodies the word “awe,” says Shane, and Tunisia, where the original Star Wars was filmed. Take your time when visiting these places and get to know the gracious people who live there.
GoNomad’s Max Hartshorne joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on the website’s recent story about what it’s like to fly during the pandemic: Learn about what his reporter found on a recent trip. Plus, tips for getting through security speedily – always a good thing. And – go for a Doo Wop Experience in New Jersey!
Should French Fries be called Belgian Fries? What was weird about the U.S. election of 1824? And surprising things about the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Learn more by tuning in as Everything-Everwhere’s Gary Arndt joins Paul and Elizabeth to explore these and other strange tales that make exploring our world so fascinating.
The Wyoming Office of Tourism’s Diane Shober joins Paul and Elizabeth to discuss the state’s breathtaking beauty, cowboy culture, and wide open spaces. Fans of the Longmire books and TV series will love hearing about the area around Sheridan, and you might be surprised to learn that Wyoming had universal women’s suffrage 50 years before the U.S. ratified the 19th amendment.
Stomp grapes virtually during California Wine Month in September, and enjoy a host of activities and events from your home. The Wine Institute’s Nancy Light joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal some of the myriad virtual events available at DiscoverCaliforniaWines.com. Tune in to learn about virtual wine road trips and more in the Golden State.
Tech and theme park guru James DeRuvo joins Paul and Elizabeth to report on how some of the major theme parks that have opened are doing with regard to COVID-19. In Orlando, Florida, Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World have both reopened, with strict health and safety protocols. At Disney World, for example, in addition to buying your ticket in advance online, you must also make a reservation for the day you visit. You’ll get a temperature check, you must practice social distancing, and anyone age 2 and older must wear a mask, except when eating or drinking. Tune in to learn more about what it’s like to visit a theme park during the age of coronavirus.
GoNomad’s Max Hartshorne joins Paul and Elizabeth to explore Newport, Rhode Island. The famous seaside community is again welcoming visitors, and everyone follows the proper protocols – wearing masks and socially distancing. Max reports on an enlightening Servant’s Life Tour, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the town’s iconic mansions functioned. He and his granddaughter Sofie also helicoptered over the area, went on a Cliff Walk, and went rail-exploring on an abandoned railtrack. Sofie approved.
TheTravelCamel’s Shane Dallas joins Paul and Elizabeth to reveal the advantages of visiting less popular, less-touristed destinations. Off-the-beaten-path places typically offer more authentic local experiences and are more affordable. Also, just because a place is unfamiliar, don’t assume that it’s dangerous, says Shane, who advises people to explore the road less traveled.
Douglas Ward, author of the Berlitz Cruising and Cruise Ships guide and Berlitz River Cruising in Europe and the USA, joins Paul and Elizabeth to discuss cruising’s future in the wake of COVID-19. Some river cruises have been operating successfully in Europe with no instances of the pandemic, says Douglas, who is based in England and brings a global perspective to the subject. Learn about what your cruise experience might be like once the big ships start sailing again. Check out cruisevoice.com and cruiseberlitz.com