AAA Travel

Traveling With AAA podcast

Woman traveling on train listing to podcast
Get insights from those who know on Traveling With AAA

Traveling With AAA is a new podcast that inspires listeners to discover the joy and transformational value of travel. Find hidden gems, get tips from knowledgeable AAA Travel Advisors, and listen to interesting guests tell stories about their adventures.

 

Podcast episodes

New Years Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbour Bridge
Episode 52: Northern Ireland – Embrace a Giant Spirit with Keryn Means

Learn what Northern Ireland offers nature lovers, history buffs, whiskey connoisseurs, and fans of popular films and TV shows.

Songkran Thai New Year
Episode 53: 5 Tips for Experiencing Northern Ireland like a Local with Keryn Means

Hear tips on how to experience Northern Ireland like a local. Plus, get hints for learning about the history and culture if you’re visiting with kids.

New Years Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbour Bridge
Episode 50: New Zealand’s South Island with Kyle Mulinder

Hear about New Zealand’s South Island, learn what makes it unique, and get some sound advice about how to safely navigate this road-trippers’ paradise.

Songkran Thai New Year
Episode 51: 5 Things to Know About New Zealand’s South Island with Kyle Mulinder

Learn some lingo sure to impress the locals (regardless of whether or not you nail it on the first try), discover the history of the haka, and hear about 2 must-try New Zealand foods.  

New Years Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbour Bridge
Episode 47: Has Social Media Ruined Travel? Part II: Featuring Jeff Jenkins

The creator of Chubby Diaries describes how he has used social media to help build his business and promote a unique travel niche. You’ll also hear how he thinks social media has helped local economies grow.

Songkran Thai New Year
Episodes 48 & 49: Hot Destinations for 2024 with Paula Twidale - Part I & II

Find out what’s trending among travelers, and why experiential getaways are in demand. Plus, learn about expert-selected destinations and why they're topping the list. 

New Years Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbour Bridge
Episode 45: Finding Paradise in Puerto Rico with Jessica van Dop DeJesús

Hear why a weekend away in Puerto Rico is much closer than you think, and why this often-overlooked Caribbean locale is experiencing a well-deserved boost in popularity.

Songkran Thai New Year
Episode 46: What to Eat in Puerto Rico with Jessica van Dop DeJesús

Find out about Puerto Rican food culture and where to find the most mouthwatering dishes.

New Years Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbour Bridge
Episode 43: The Best New Year's Eve Destinations around the World

Get a rundown of what it’s like to party in some of the most iconic New Year’s Eve events in the U.S. and abroad. Plus, discover the type of celebration that can inspire you to solidify your own plans for the new year.

Songkran Thai New Year
Episode 44: New Year’s Eve Bucket List Experiences

Hear about bucket list New Year's Eve activities in the U.S. and abroad, where to go if you’re looking for a tropical year-end party, and thoughts about New Year's Eve weddings.

Aurora Borealis in Fairbanks, Alaska
Episode 41: Forever Maui - How Tourism Is Helping the Island Bounce back with Leanne Pletcher

Learn the geography of Maui to better understand which areas are still recovering and how choosing Maui for your vacation can make a difference to the community.

Geisha walking in bamboo grove in Kyoto, Japan
Episode 42: The Top 5 Experiences to Have in Maui with Leanne Pletcher

Fill out your must-do list with the best of what to see and do on your Maui vacation. 

Aurora Borealis in Fairbanks, Alaska
Episode 39: Cemeteries to See Before You Die with Loren Rhoads

Learn about how attitudes about enjoying cemetery grounds have changed throughout history, and hear tidbits about some of the world’s most famous cemeteries and why they’re encouraging people to visit. 

Geisha walking in bamboo grove in Kyoto, Japan
Episode 40: Top 5 Must-see Cemeteries with Loren Rhoads

We take a look at 5 must-see cemeteries to help you kick start what’s sure to be your new favorite travel curiosity. 

Aurora Borealis in Fairbanks, Alaska
Episode 37: A Journey through the World of Wine with Jennifer Dombroski

Writer and photographer Jennifer Dombroski shares a simple way to remember how to pair wine with your meals and unique wine-tasting experiences in Europe and throughout the U.S.

Geisha walking in bamboo grove in Kyoto, Japan
Episode 38: Has Social Media Ruined Travel? With JoAnna Haugen & B.A. Van Sise

Social media influences our choices about where to go, what to see, where to stay, and how we document our experiences. Experts offer their perspectives on how social media has affected travel. 

Aurora Borealis in Fairbanks, Alaska
Episode 36: Alaska - Exploring the Final Frontier

Award-winning travel writer Valerie Stimac shares the best ways to navigate Alaska, where to see wildlife, tips on visiting Alaska on a budget, and how to see the magical lights of the aurora borealis. 

Geisha walking in bamboo grove in Kyoto, Japan
Episode 35: Discovering Japan - Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, & Beyond with Don George

Don George, a lifelong “Japanophile,” talks about how the major Japanese islands differ from one another, navigating the language barrier, and who to seek out if you need help.

Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France
Episode 34: The Pleasures of Paris & the 2024 Summer Olympics

Lee Abbamonte, who has been to Paris over 60 times, offers tips on where to eat, where to stay, and how to avoid the crowds in the most-visited city in the world. You’ll also hear what Paris is doing to prepare for the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Woman at a cenote in Yucatan Peninsula
Episode 33: Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, & the Yucatán Peninsula with Tim Leffel & Lydia Carey

Mexico travel experts, Tim Leffel and Lydia Carey, talk about what makes Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and the Yucatán Peninsula different. Learn where to find delicious street food and the best way to sample traditional Mexican spirits.  

Panoramic view of London
Episode 32: Tips for Visiting U.S. National Parks & Avoiding Crowds with Gary Arndt

Gary Arndt discusses the impact of over-tourism at national parks with useful tips on avoiding crowds and venturing outside of the most popular parks to discover lesser-known options.

Kirkjufell hill in Iceland
Episode 31: Family Road Trips & #VanLife with Kristen Bor

Kristen Bor, an outdoor enthusiast who has spent nearly a decade balancing life at home and adventures on the open road, shares how van life keeps her close to nature and reveals her favorite U.S. destinations for road trips.

Panoramic view of London
Episode 30: Summer Trips to Europe & how to Avoid the Crowds with Alyson Long

CEO of World Travel Family Alyson Long shares tips on navigating non-English-speaking destinations, choosing the right accommodation for your needs, and the best way to experience busy places while maximizing your time.

Kirkjufell hill in Iceland
Episode 29: Adventures in Iceland

Writer Jessica Fender talks about Iceland’s easily accessible natural wonders, from glaciers and hot springs to the country’s gorgeous waterfalls. She also offers tips on what to see and do in Reykjavik.

Aerial view of Verona, Italy
Episode 28: La Dolce Vita in Italy

Susan Van Allen, author of 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go, offers tips on planning the perfect tour of Italy’s food, architecture, and history.

Girl standing on beach holding surf board
Episode 27: A Local’s Guide to Visiting Hawai‘i

Kevin Allen of Hawai‘i Magazine discusses new hotels and attractions and offers tips on visiting responsibly.

Solar eclipse
Episode 26: Total Eclipse of the Traveler's Heart

A rare total solar eclipse is coming our way in 2024. Self-confessed eclipse-chaser David Swanson offers tips for travelers making plans to see the unusual solar event.

Romantic couple in infinity pool
Episode 25: Romantic Getaways

Travel enthusiasts Tonya and Ian Fitzpatrick discuss the importance of vacationing with your significant other. Romantic getaways, they say, can help couples reconnect through shared experiences and new perspectives.

Couple standing on deck of cruise ship
Episode 24: Cruising for the Under 40 Crowd

Andrea Zelinski and Nicole Edenedo from Travel Weekly discuss younger travelers’ growing interest in cruising and dispel myths that sometimes keep those under 40 from booking a cruise.

Kids on theme park carousel
Episode 23: 2023 Theme Park News & Tips

Jordan "Jordie" Poblete, creator of the website DisneyExaminer, talks about Disney’s plans to celebrate its 100th anniversary, the new Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood, and more.

Mom holding daughter at lake
Episode 22: New Year, New Resolution

Emily Kaufman, better known as “The Travel Mom” for her website of the same name, gives tips on reaching that goal. She has great advice, not just for families, but for all travelers.

Woman holding smartphone while traveling
Episode 21: Tech Tools for the Traveler on Your Holiday Gift List

Photographer and podcaster Gary Arndt recommends gadgets, tools, and apps for the traveler in your life.

Family travel overlooking Lake Slovenia
Episode 20: Why We Travel

Travel writers Jim Benning and Elizabeth Harryman discuss the life-changing power of travel—and making up for lost time after pandemic-related travel restrictions lifted over the last year.

Baily lighthouse Howth County Dublin, Ireland
Episode 19: Ireland Like a Local

Travel writer Jessica Colley Clarke is married to an Irishman and considers the Emerald Isle her second home. She shares tips for travelers to fit in like a local while they experience the island’s charming towns and pubs.

Woman sitting next to campfire
Episode 18: Holiday Travel Tips

Award-winning travel writer Elizabeth Harryman shares tricks for travel during the holidays.

Australia Sydney Harbor Bridge
Episode 17: Voyage to the Galápagos

National Geographic Travel editor-at-large Don George recounts his recent cruise to the Galápagos Islands aboard a small Celebrity ship specially designed for the archipelago and its wildlife. He says it was a life-changing and healing experience.

Woman sitting next to campfire
Episode 16: Colombia – The Enchanting Country Behind Encanto

Travel writers Jim Benning and Elizabeth Harryman discuss Colombia’s emergence as a tourist destination. Among the attractions discussed are world-class coffee, a gold museum, and a major bicycle event.

Australia Sydney Harbor Bridge
Episode 15: Alaska by Land or Sea

Fran Golden is the co-author of 100 Things to Do in Alaska Before You Die. Fran tells what made her fall in love with the Last Frontier, from majestic scenery to encounters with wildlife. She also narrows down her list to the No. 1 thing every visitor must do.

Woman sitting next to campfire
Episode 14: Why Outdoor Enthusiasts Love Fall

Chez Chesak, executive director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, is an avid skier, biker, and backpacker. He offers tips on making the most of autumn’s cooler days and shares his favorite fall hiking and biking spots.

Australia Sydney Harbor Bridge
Episode 13: Australia Adventures

Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Jessica Fender tells about her Australia experiences on a Contiki escorted tour aimed at travelers age 18 to 35. Jessica cuddled a koala at an animal sanctuary, took a surfing lesson, and climbed to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Friends sharing a Mickey Mouse pretzel
Episode 12: Visiting Italy: A Love Story

Author of 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go and Italy expert Susan Van Allen shares insights on making the most of a visit to Italy. She also produced her own 1-woman show about an Italian-American family and was a staff writer for the show Everybody Loves Raymond.

Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy
Episode 11: Visiting Disney World and Disneyland in 2022

What’s it like to stay in the new Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel at Walt Disney World? What’s new at Disneyland? Jordan Poblete offers tips on visiting the parks and shares his experience on Galactic Starcruiser.

American Queen riveer cruise ship
Episode 10: River Cruising in America

River cruising in the U.S. is gaining in popularity—is it right for you? Guests Nick Chabarria and Elizabeth Harryman Lasley share their experiences cruising U.S. rivers and offer insights about riverboating on the Mississippi and others. 

Rv driving on Oregon coast
Episode 9: RV Camping - Oregon Coast

RVs offer a comfortable way to see the country and camp in the great outdoors, but they may not be for everyone. Brad Wright shares his experience as an RV newcomer and offers tips to others considering RV travel and exploring Oregon.

RV traveling on Oregon Coast
Episode 8: All-Inclusive Resorts

The popularity of all-inclusive resorts is soaring. Is an all-inclusive right for you? What’s it like to stay in one? Jack Richards, CEO and president of Pleasant Holidays, discusses the many advantages of a staying in these popular resorts.

American Queen river boat
Episode 7: Hawai‘i for First-Timers

The Hawaiian Islands offer something for every type of traveler, but knowing where to begin can be tricky if you’ve never been. Doug Shupe, recently returned from his first visit to the islands, offers insights and tips for first-time visitors.

Kualoa Regional Park at sunrise
Episode 6: The Rise of Wellness Travel

More than ever, travelers want to focus on their health and well-being, and resorts and other travel providers are racing to meet their needs. Pulitzer winner Jessica Fender discusses the trend and offers tips.

Couple relaxing while looking at the ocean
Episode 5: Cruising

Is it time to go back on the water again? We give you the answers to safely plan your cruise. Fran Golden, an award-winning journalist and cruise expert, chats with Mary about setting sail.

Cruise ship in Greece
Episode 4: Visit Hawai‘i

Hawai‘i-based journalist Rachel Ng will share the rich cultural heritage of the Hawaiian Islands, discuss activities on the different islands, and give updates on the state’s COVID protocols and requirements.

Group doing yoga on the beach in Mexico
Episode 3: Visit Mexico & the Caribbean

Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon (JetSet Sarah), former editor of Caribbean Travel and Life, reveals the magic of Mexico and the Caribbean, including shopping, unusual activities, and all-inclusive resorts

Chichen Itza, Mexico
Episode 2: Explore the Great Outdoors

ACE Publications travel editor Jim Benning and AAA field cartographer Shane Henry explore Arches National Park and share tips on visiting many of the country’s most popular parks.

Hula dancer next to the ocean
Episode 1: Travel Planning in the Age of COVID

Emma Weissmann, digital managing editor of TravelAge West, touches on the value of using a travel advisor, how to keep up with COVID protocols, and how far to plan ahead. Then Doug Shupe recaps his cruise to Alaska during the pandemic.