Unpacked by Afar https://www.afar.com/ en Unpacked by Afar tackles one tricky topic in travel each week. Whether you want to hack your points and miles, figure out where to travel next, or need advice on an ethical dilemma, we're your expert travel guides. Because the travel world is complicated. We're here to help you unpack it. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/0b1e55c8-d310-11ec-b05b-232990bef640/image/f875b1003db6ddf73d1d23985feab0de.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress Unpacked by Afar https://www.afar.com/ no episodic Afar Unpacked by Afar tackles one tricky topic in travel each week. Whether you want to hack your points and miles, figure out where to travel next, or need advice on an ethical dilemma, we're your expert travel guides. Because the travel world is complicated. We're here to help you unpack it. Unpacked by Afar tackles one tricky topic in travel each week. Whether you want to hack your points and miles, figure out where to travel next, or need advice on an ethical dilemma, we're your expert travel guides. Because the travel world is complicated. We're here to help you unpack it.

]]> Afar aislyn@afar.com Unpacked, Five Questions: Why This Photographer Spent Four Weeks in the Egyptian Desert Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, executive editor Katherine LaGrave sits down with documentary photographer Nathalie Mohadjer, whose images of the desert oasis of Siwa appear in Afar's winter 2026 issue. For four weeks in Siwa, an ancient town some 450 miles from Cairo, Nathalie traded the typical three-day shoot for a slower kind of immersion — sharing breakfasts in the old town, spending afternoons with a local woman named Fatima, and bathing in a hidden cold spring with her family's kids. She talks with Katherine about photographing a community where Siwan women are rarely seen by outsiders, why patience and respect matter more than the camera itself, and how losing your sense of time in the desert can change the way you see a place. She also shares advice for travelers heading to Siwa — and the one moment she chose not to capture. Meet this week's guest Nathalie Mohadjer is a German-Iranian documentary photographer based in Paris whose work has appeared in the New York Times, Monocle, and Le Monde. Episode highlights How a stranger waving from a window in Siwa's ruins led to weeks of access to a local family's home, kitchen, and hidden swimming spots Why Nathalie spent nearly four weeks in Siwa — and what that kind of time reveals about a place that most visitors see in three or four days The ethics and art of photographing people in other cultures: when to put the camera away, and how to earn the moment rather than take it What makes Siwa's community so distinct from the rest of Egypt — and the Berber and Tuareg roots that shape its culture Nathalie's practical advice for travelers heading to Siwa: slow down, talk to strangers, and don't be afraid to follow an unexpected invitation Links & resources Follow Nathalie Mohadjer on Instagram Explore her visual story about Siwa, Egypt on Afar Explore her photographs of Oman in her first Afar feature Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:03:00 Arriving in Siwa 00:09:00 Meeting Fatima 00:17:00 Photographing with Patience 00:24:00 Timelessness and Culture 00:30:00 Advice for Travelers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:00:00 -0000 full Afar Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, executive editor Katherine LaGrave sits down with documentary photographer Nathalie Mohadjer, whose images of the desert oasis of Siwa appear in Afar's winter 2026 issue. For four weeks in Siwa, an ancient town some 450 miles from Cairo, Nathalie traded the typical three-day shoot for a slower kind of immersion — sharing breakfasts in the old town, spending afternoons with a local woman named Fatima, and bathing in a hidden cold spring with her family's kids. She talks with Katherine about photographing a community where Siwan women are rarely seen by outsiders, why patience and respect matter more than the camera itself, and how losing your sense of time in the desert can change the way you see a place. She also shares advice for travelers heading to Siwa — and the one moment she chose not to capture. Meet this week's guest Nathalie Mohadjer is a German-Iranian documentary photographer based in Paris whose work has appeared in the New York Times, Monocle, and Le Monde. Episode highlights How a stranger waving from a window in Siwa's ruins led to weeks of access to a local family's home, kitchen, and hidden swimming spots Why Nathalie spent nearly four weeks in Siwa — and what that kind of time reveals about a place that most visitors see in three or four days The ethics and art of photographing people in other cultures: when to put the camera away, and how to earn the moment rather than take it What makes Siwa's community so distinct from the rest of Egypt — and the Berber and Tuareg roots that shape its culture Nathalie's practical advice for travelers heading to Siwa: slow down, talk to strangers, and don't be afraid to follow an unexpected invitation Links & resources Follow Nathalie Mohadjer on Instagram Explore her visual story about Siwa, Egypt on Afar Explore her photographs of Oman in her first Afar feature Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:03:00 Arriving in Siwa 00:09:00 Meeting Fatima 00:17:00 Photographing with Patience 00:24:00 Timelessness and Culture 00:30:00 Advice for Travelers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, executive editor Katherine LaGrave sits down with documentary photographer Nathalie Mohadjer, whose images of the desert oasis of Siwa appear in Afar's winter 2026 issue.

For four weeks in Siwa, an ancient town some 450 miles from Cairo, Nathalie traded the typical three-day shoot for a slower kind of immersion — sharing breakfasts in the old town, spending afternoons with a local woman named Fatima, and bathing in a hidden cold spring with her family's kids.

She talks with Katherine about photographing a community where Siwan women are rarely seen by outsiders, why patience and respect matter more than the camera itself, and how losing your sense of time in the desert can change the way you see a place. She also shares advice for travelers heading to Siwa — and the one moment she chose not to capture.

Meet this week's guest

Nathalie Mohadjer is a German-Iranian documentary photographer based in Paris whose work has appeared in the New York Times, Monocle, and Le Monde.


Episode highlights

  • How a stranger waving from a window in Siwa's ruins led to weeks of access to a local family's home, kitchen, and hidden swimming spots

  • Why Nathalie spent nearly four weeks in Siwa — and what that kind of time reveals about a place that most visitors see in three or four days

  • The ethics and art of photographing people in other cultures: when to put the camera away, and how to earn the moment rather than take it

  • What makes Siwa's community so distinct from the rest of Egypt — and the Berber and Tuareg roots that shape its culture

  • Nathalie's practical advice for travelers heading to Siwa: slow down, talk to strangers, and don't be afraid to follow an unexpected invitation


Links & resources

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction

00:03:00 Arriving in Siwa

00:09:00 Meeting Fatima

00:17:00 Photographing with Patience

00:24:00 Timelessness and Culture

00:30:00 Advice for Travelers

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1125 no Forget the Algorithm. Here's How to Actually Eat Well When You Travel. Jennifer Hope Choi plans every trip the same way: open a Google doc, start with food, and build outward from there. As a former Bon Appétit editor, 13-year restaurant industry veteran, and author of a travel memoir, she has strong opinions about Michelin guides (skip ‘em), low-rated restaurants (sometimes worth it), and why you should always follow your optician's food recs. She also edited Afar’s debut Travel to Eat series, which includes three stories: Jeju black pork and a life-changing soup, Sherpa cuisine in the Rockies, and why Portland, Maine, might be America’s best bakery town. Meet today's guest Jennifer Hope Choi is a senior editor at Afar and the architect of its Travel to Eat series. A former Bon Appétit editor and 13-year restaurant industry veteran, she is also an award-winning writer and author of the travel memoir the Wanderer’s Curse. Her work spans food and culture, and the messy, joyful overlap between the two. In this episode How Jen’s latchkey childhood, early Food Network shows, and her Korean grandmother’s pancakes shaped a lifelong obsession with eating Why the Google doc comes first: Jen’s method for building food-forward itineraries from Reddit threads, local papers, and stranger recommendations The case against Michelin stars, lines around the block, and treating a trip like a personality — and what to do instead Inside the three stories of Afar’s Travel to Eat series: a transcendent bowl of Jeju black pork soup, Sherpa cuisine taking root in the Colorado Rockies, and the baking scene quietly transforming Portland, Maine Jen’s #1 travel food tip: ask the shop clerk, not the algorithm Links & resources Read the Travel to eat series: ⁠America's best bakery town⁠, a life-changing pork soup, and the rise of Sherpa cuisine in the Colorado Rockies Read Jen's memoir, The Wanderer’s Curse Follow Jen on Instagram Read MFK Fisher's The Art of Eating, Jen’s favorite food book Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:30 Growing Up Food-Obsessed 00:06:30 How to Eat Your Way Through a City 00:11:30 Lists, Stars, and Letting Go 00:21:30 The Travel to Eat Series 00:30:00 Tips for Eating Well on the Road Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 16 Apr 2026 20:26:00 -0000 full Afar Jennifer Hope Choi plans every trip the same way: open a Google doc, start with food, and build outward from there. As a former Bon Appétit editor, 13-year restaurant industry veteran, and author of a travel memoir, she has strong opinions about Michelin guides (skip ‘em), low-rated restaurants (sometimes worth it), and why you should always follow your optician's food recs. She also edited Afar’s debut Travel to Eat series, which includes three stories: Jeju black pork and a life-changing soup, Sherpa cuisine in the Rockies, and why Portland, Maine, might be America’s best bakery town. Meet today's guest Jennifer Hope Choi is a senior editor at Afar and the architect of its Travel to Eat series. A former Bon Appétit editor and 13-year restaurant industry veteran, she is also an award-winning writer and author of the travel memoir the Wanderer’s Curse. Her work spans food and culture, and the messy, joyful overlap between the two. In this episode How Jen’s latchkey childhood, early Food Network shows, and her Korean grandmother’s pancakes shaped a lifelong obsession with eating Why the Google doc comes first: Jen’s method for building food-forward itineraries from Reddit threads, local papers, and stranger recommendations The case against Michelin stars, lines around the block, and treating a trip like a personality — and what to do instead Inside the three stories of Afar’s Travel to Eat series: a transcendent bowl of Jeju black pork soup, Sherpa cuisine taking root in the Colorado Rockies, and the baking scene quietly transforming Portland, Maine Jen’s #1 travel food tip: ask the shop clerk, not the algorithm Links & resources Read the Travel to eat series: ⁠America's best bakery town⁠, a life-changing pork soup, and the rise of Sherpa cuisine in the Colorado Rockies Read Jen's memoir, The Wanderer’s Curse Follow Jen on Instagram Read MFK Fisher's The Art of Eating, Jen’s favorite food book Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:30 Growing Up Food-Obsessed 00:06:30 How to Eat Your Way Through a City 00:11:30 Lists, Stars, and Letting Go 00:21:30 The Travel to Eat Series 00:30:00 Tips for Eating Well on the Road Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Jennifer Hope Choi plans every trip the same way: open a Google doc, start with food, and build outward from there. As a former Bon Appétit editor, 13-year restaurant industry veteran, and author of a travel memoir, she has strong opinions about Michelin guides (skip ‘em), low-rated restaurants (sometimes worth it), and why you should always follow your optician's food recs.

She also edited Afar’s debut Travel to Eat series, which includes three stories: Jeju black pork and a life-changing soup, Sherpa cuisine in the Rockies, and why Portland, Maine, might be America’s best bakery town.

Meet today's guest

Jennifer Hope Choi is a senior editor at Afar and the architect of its Travel to Eat series. A former Bon Appétit editor and 13-year restaurant industry veteran, she is also an award-winning writer and author of the travel memoir the Wanderer’s Curse. Her work spans food and culture, and the messy, joyful overlap between the two.

In this episode

  • How Jen’s latchkey childhood, early Food Network shows, and her Korean grandmother’s pancakes shaped a lifelong obsession with eating

  • Why the Google doc comes first: Jen’s method for building food-forward itineraries from Reddit threads, local papers, and stranger recommendations

  • The case against Michelin stars, lines around the block, and treating a trip like a personality — and what to do instead

  • Inside the three stories of Afar’s Travel to Eat series: a transcendent bowl of Jeju black pork soup, Sherpa cuisine taking root in the Colorado Rockies, and the baking scene quietly transforming Portland, Maine

  • Jen’s #1 travel food tip: ask the shop clerk, not the algorithm

Links & resources

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction

00:01:30 Growing Up Food-Obsessed

00:06:30 How to Eat Your Way Through a City

00:11:30 Lists, Stars, and Letting Go

00:21:30 The Travel to Eat Series

00:30:00 Tips for Eating Well on the Road


Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel.

Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2522 no The Joyful Instrument That Became the Sound of Hawai'i It started as an abandoned ukulele on a wall. Afar’s Aislyn Greene hadn’t touched it in two years — but that idle instrument sent her down a rabbit hole into one of the most joyful origin stories in music. The ukulele arrived in Hawai'i on a Portuguese immigrant ship in 1878, got a royal endorsement from a king and queen, fell into obscurity, and then took over the world. Along the way, a family of master craftsmen has been hand-finishing every instrument for over a century, and one of the greatest string players alive still can’t believe people underestimate it. Meet today's guests Roy Sakuma is a musician, educator, and founder of Roy Sakuma Ukulele Studios, Hawaii’s most famous ukulele school with four locations. In 1971, he launched the Ukulele Festival Hawai'i, now the state’s top summer event, and has spent 50 years making the case that the ukulele is no toy. Chris Kamaka is the third-generation owner of Kamaka Ukulele, the oldest continuous ukulele manufacturer in the world, founded in Honolulu in 1916. Each of the 1,000–1,500 ukuleles they produce annually is hand-played by Chris before it leaves the shop. Jake Shimabukuro is a virtuoso musician widely regarded as the greatest ukulele player alive. He has sold out concert halls worldwide and recently collaborated with Mick Fleetwood on a Blues album. In this episode How Portuguese immigrants and Hawaiian royalty together created — and named — the ukulele Why Kamaka Hawai'i still air-dries koa wood for up to six years before touching it How Roy Sakuma’s free Ukulele Festival in 1971 sparked a global revival from his backyard Jake Shimabukuro on recording a tribute to Christine McVie with Mick Fleetwood — and why low expectations are a gift What it’s actually like to take a ukulele lesson from Roy Sakuma (Aislyn finds out live on mic) Resources Listen to Afar's ukulele playlist Sign up for lessons at Roy Sakuma Ukulele Studios Explore the instruments at Kamaka Ukulele Listen to the music of Jake Shimabukuro Visit the Ukulele Festival Hawai'i Chapters 00:00:00 The Ukulele's Origins 00:02:00 Hawaii's Royal Endorsement 00:03:30 Inside the Kamaka Workshop 00:06:00 Roy Sakuma and the Festival 00:09:30 Jake Shimabukuro's Journey 00:13:00 A Lesson With Roy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 14 Apr 2026 23:24:00 -0000 bonus Afar It started as an abandoned ukulele on a wall. Afar’s Aislyn Greene hadn’t touched it in two years — but that idle instrument sent her down a rabbit hole into one of the most joyful origin stories in music. The ukulele arrived in Hawai'i on a Portuguese immigrant ship in 1878, got a royal endorsement from a king and queen, fell into obscurity, and then took over the world. Along the way, a family of master craftsmen has been hand-finishing every instrument for over a century, and one of the greatest string players alive still can’t believe people underestimate it. Meet today's guests Roy Sakuma is a musician, educator, and founder of Roy Sakuma Ukulele Studios, Hawaii’s most famous ukulele school with four locations. In 1971, he launched the Ukulele Festival Hawai'i, now the state’s top summer event, and has spent 50 years making the case that the ukulele is no toy. Chris Kamaka is the third-generation owner of Kamaka Ukulele, the oldest continuous ukulele manufacturer in the world, founded in Honolulu in 1916. Each of the 1,000–1,500 ukuleles they produce annually is hand-played by Chris before it leaves the shop. Jake Shimabukuro is a virtuoso musician widely regarded as the greatest ukulele player alive. He has sold out concert halls worldwide and recently collaborated with Mick Fleetwood on a Blues album. In this episode How Portuguese immigrants and Hawaiian royalty together created — and named — the ukulele Why Kamaka Hawai'i still air-dries koa wood for up to six years before touching it How Roy Sakuma’s free Ukulele Festival in 1971 sparked a global revival from his backyard Jake Shimabukuro on recording a tribute to Christine McVie with Mick Fleetwood — and why low expectations are a gift What it’s actually like to take a ukulele lesson from Roy Sakuma (Aislyn finds out live on mic) Resources Listen to Afar's ukulele playlist Sign up for lessons at Roy Sakuma Ukulele Studios Explore the instruments at Kamaka Ukulele Listen to the music of Jake Shimabukuro Visit the Ukulele Festival Hawai'i Chapters 00:00:00 The Ukulele's Origins 00:02:00 Hawaii's Royal Endorsement 00:03:30 Inside the Kamaka Workshop 00:06:00 Roy Sakuma and the Festival 00:09:30 Jake Shimabukuro's Journey 00:13:00 A Lesson With Roy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It started as an abandoned ukulele on a wall. Afar’s Aislyn Greene hadn’t touched it in two years — but that idle instrument sent her down a rabbit hole into one of the most joyful origin stories in music. The ukulele arrived in Hawai'i on a Portuguese immigrant ship in 1878, got a royal endorsement from a king and queen, fell into obscurity, and then took over the world. Along the way, a family of master craftsmen has been hand-finishing every instrument for over a century, and one of the greatest string players alive still can’t believe people underestimate it.

Meet today's guests

Roy Sakuma is a musician, educator, and founder of Roy Sakuma Ukulele Studios, Hawaii’s most famous ukulele school with four locations. In 1971, he launched the Ukulele Festival Hawai'i, now the state’s top summer event, and has spent 50 years making the case that the ukulele is no toy.

Chris Kamaka is the third-generation owner of Kamaka Ukulele, the oldest continuous ukulele manufacturer in the world, founded in Honolulu in 1916. Each of the 1,000–1,500 ukuleles they produce annually is hand-played by Chris before it leaves the shop.

Jake Shimabukuro is a virtuoso musician widely regarded as the greatest ukulele player alive. He has sold out concert halls worldwide and recently collaborated with Mick Fleetwood on a Blues album.

In this episode

  • How Portuguese immigrants and Hawaiian royalty together created — and named — the ukulele

  • Why Kamaka Hawai'i still air-dries koa wood for up to six years before touching it

  • How Roy Sakuma’s free Ukulele Festival in 1971 sparked a global revival from his backyard

  • Jake Shimabukuro on recording a tribute to Christine McVie with Mick Fleetwood — and why low expectations are a gift

  • What it’s actually like to take a ukulele lesson from Roy Sakuma (Aislyn finds out live on mic)

Resources

Chapters

00:00:00 The Ukulele's Origins 00:02:00 Hawaii's Royal Endorsement 00:03:30 Inside the Kamaka Workshop 00:06:00 Roy Sakuma and the Festival 00:09:30 Jake Shimabukuro's Journey 00:13:00 A Lesson With Roy


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1136 no How Two Years of Phone-Free Travel Rewired the Way I See the World What if the secret to a great trip was leaving your phone in airplane mode — forever? Journalist Lisa Abend has been doing exactly that, arriving in cities she's never researched, GPS turned off, without a hotel reservation or itinerary of any kind. The result isn't chaos; it's the kind of travel that actually surprises you. In this episode, Lisa makes a compelling case for leaving the phone out of the travel process. Meet this week's guest Lisa Abend is a Copenhagen-based journalist and former Time magazine correspondent who covers food, culture, and travel across Europe. She is the creator of The Unplugged Traveler, a Substack newsletter in which she visits a new European city each month without internet access, a booked hotel, or a plan, and writes about what she finds. In this episode How social media and over-researched itineraries have stripped travel of serendipity, and what Lisa is doing about it The step-by-step logistics of arriving in a foreign city with no hotel, no map, and no plan — and why it's less stressful than it sounds A birthday coincidence on a Cotswolds hiking trail that felt like the universe intervening Why "second cities" — not capitals — are the ideal places to try unplugged travel for the first time How nearly two dozen phone-free trips have changed the way Lisa navigates daily life Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:00 Backpacking Before the Internet 00:04:30 What the Internet Took From Travel 00:09:30 The Unplugged Traveler Newsletter 00:13:00 How to Choose a Destination 00:15:30 Arriving With No Hotel Booked 00:20:00 A Cotswolds Birthday Surprise 00:27:00 Finding Food Without the Lists 00:32:00 Travel as Meditation 00:35:30 Tips for Going Unplugged Resources Subscribe to Lisa's ⁠The Unplugged Traveler newsletter on Substack⁠ Read Lisa's travel stories for Afar Use ⁠Skyscanner — flight search tool Lisa uses to find cheap fares⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 09 Apr 2026 07:01:00 -0000 full Afar What if the secret to a great trip was leaving your phone in airplane mode — forever? Journalist Lisa Abend has been doing exactly that, arriving in cities she's never researched, GPS turned off, without a hotel reservation or itinerary of any kind. The result isn't chaos; it's the kind of travel that actually surprises you. In this episode, Lisa makes a compelling case for leaving the phone out of the travel process. Meet this week's guest Lisa Abend is a Copenhagen-based journalist and former Time magazine correspondent who covers food, culture, and travel across Europe. She is the creator of The Unplugged Traveler, a Substack newsletter in which she visits a new European city each month without internet access, a booked hotel, or a plan, and writes about what she finds. In this episode How social media and over-researched itineraries have stripped travel of serendipity, and what Lisa is doing about it The step-by-step logistics of arriving in a foreign city with no hotel, no map, and no plan — and why it's less stressful than it sounds A birthday coincidence on a Cotswolds hiking trail that felt like the universe intervening Why "second cities" — not capitals — are the ideal places to try unplugged travel for the first time How nearly two dozen phone-free trips have changed the way Lisa navigates daily life Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:00 Backpacking Before the Internet 00:04:30 What the Internet Took From Travel 00:09:30 The Unplugged Traveler Newsletter 00:13:00 How to Choose a Destination 00:15:30 Arriving With No Hotel Booked 00:20:00 A Cotswolds Birthday Surprise 00:27:00 Finding Food Without the Lists 00:32:00 Travel as Meditation 00:35:30 Tips for Going Unplugged Resources Subscribe to Lisa's ⁠The Unplugged Traveler newsletter on Substack⁠ Read Lisa's travel stories for Afar Use ⁠Skyscanner — flight search tool Lisa uses to find cheap fares⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What if the secret to a great trip was leaving your phone in airplane mode — forever? Journalist Lisa Abend has been doing exactly that, arriving in cities she's never researched, GPS turned off, without a hotel reservation or itinerary of any kind. The result isn't chaos; it's the kind of travel that actually surprises you. In this episode, Lisa makes a compelling case for leaving the phone out of the travel process.

Meet this week's guest

Lisa Abend is a Copenhagen-based journalist and former Time magazine correspondent who covers food, culture, and travel across Europe. She is the creator of The Unplugged Traveler, a Substack newsletter in which she visits a new European city each month without internet access, a booked hotel, or a plan, and writes about what she finds.

In this episode

  • How social media and over-researched itineraries have stripped travel of serendipity, and what Lisa is doing about it

  • The step-by-step logistics of arriving in a foreign city with no hotel, no map, and no plan — and why it's less stressful than it sounds

  • A birthday coincidence on a Cotswolds hiking trail that felt like the universe intervening

  • Why "second cities" — not capitals — are the ideal places to try unplugged travel for the first time

  • How nearly two dozen phone-free trips have changed the way Lisa navigates daily life

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:00 Backpacking Before the Internet 00:04:30 What the Internet Took From Travel 00:09:30 The Unplugged Traveler Newsletter 00:13:00 How to Choose a Destination 00:15:30 Arriving With No Hotel Booked 00:20:00 A Cotswolds Birthday Surprise 00:27:00 Finding Food Without the Lists 00:32:00 Travel as Meditation 00:35:30 Tips for Going Unplugged


Resources

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2677 no In the Age of AI, This Is What Only a Travel Advisor Can Do You've got more booking tools than ever — so why would you hire a travel advisor? In this episode, Afar editorial director Billie Cohen sits down with travel journalist and matchmaker Wendy Perrin, founder of wendyperrin.com, to answer the questions travelers actually have: What can an advisor do that you can't do yourself? When does it make sense — and when doesn't it? How do you find a good one, interview them, and understand what you're paying for? From crowd-skipping at Venice to landing the perfect Egyptologist, Wendy makes the case for what truly expert trip planning looks like. In this episode Why connections (not booking tools or AI) are the real currency of great travel The difference between advisors who specialize in you vs. those who specialize in a place How to interview a travel advisor (and what their answers reveal) What travel actually costs — and why it often isn't itemized Why multi-gen trips and post-pandemic travel are driving a new wave of advisor use Chapters 00:00:00 Why Travel Advisors Still Matter 00:03:00 Advisors vs. Agents vs. Tour Operators 00:06:00 What a Great Advisor Can Do 00:13:00 Choosing and Interviewing an Advisor 00:24:00 Fees, Costs, and Transparency 00:28:00 Cruise Specialists and Misconceptions 00:33:00 Who's Using Advisors Now Links & resources Wendyperrin.com and Wendy's Wow List of top trip designers Listen to our Unpacked episode about cruise travel advisors Explore the Afar Travel Advisory Council Follow Afar at @afarmedia on Instagram and TikTok More travel planning resources at afar.com Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 02 Apr 2026 07:01:00 -0000 full Afar You've got more booking tools than ever — so why would you hire a travel advisor? In this episode, Afar editorial director Billie Cohen sits down with travel journalist and matchmaker Wendy Perrin, founder of wendyperrin.com, to answer the questions travelers actually have: What can an advisor do that you can't do yourself? When does it make sense — and when doesn't it? How do you find a good one, interview them, and understand what you're paying for? From crowd-skipping at Venice to landing the perfect Egyptologist, Wendy makes the case for what truly expert trip planning looks like. In this episode Why connections (not booking tools or AI) are the real currency of great travel The difference between advisors who specialize in you vs. those who specialize in a place How to interview a travel advisor (and what their answers reveal) What travel actually costs — and why it often isn't itemized Why multi-gen trips and post-pandemic travel are driving a new wave of advisor use Chapters 00:00:00 Why Travel Advisors Still Matter 00:03:00 Advisors vs. Agents vs. Tour Operators 00:06:00 What a Great Advisor Can Do 00:13:00 Choosing and Interviewing an Advisor 00:24:00 Fees, Costs, and Transparency 00:28:00 Cruise Specialists and Misconceptions 00:33:00 Who's Using Advisors Now Links & resources Wendyperrin.com and Wendy's Wow List of top trip designers Listen to our Unpacked episode about cruise travel advisors Explore the Afar Travel Advisory Council Follow Afar at @afarmedia on Instagram and TikTok More travel planning resources at afar.com Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices You've got more booking tools than ever — so why would you hire a travel advisor? In this episode, Afar editorial director Billie Cohen sits down with travel journalist and matchmaker Wendy Perrin, founder of wendyperrin.com, to answer the questions travelers actually have: What can an advisor do that you can't do yourself? When does it make sense — and when doesn't it? How do you find a good one, interview them, and understand what you're paying for?

From crowd-skipping at Venice to landing the perfect Egyptologist, Wendy makes the case for what truly expert trip planning looks like.

In this episode

  • Why connections (not booking tools or AI) are the real currency of great travel
  • The difference between advisors who specialize in you vs. those who specialize in a place
  • How to interview a travel advisor (and what their answers reveal)
  • What travel actually costs — and why it often isn't itemized
  • Why multi-gen trips and post-pandemic travel are driving a new wave of advisor use

Chapters

00:00:00 Why Travel Advisors Still Matter 00:03:00 Advisors vs. Agents vs. Tour Operators 00:06:00 What a Great Advisor Can Do 00:13:00 Choosing and Interviewing an Advisor 00:24:00 Fees, Costs, and Transparency 00:28:00 Cruise Specialists and Misconceptions 00:33:00 Who's Using Advisors Now

Links & resources

Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel.

Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2286 no An Architect's California: From LA's Secret Garden to the Magic of Joshua Tree This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week, we hosted Unpacked Live — a live version of the podcast — in partnership with Visit California in Dallas, Texas. The event celebrated California's extraordinary creative landscape, and today's guest has been shaping the way Californians live, work, and gather for three decades. Barbara Bestor is the founder of Bestor Architecture, a Los Angeles studio she's led since 1995 — at a time when very few women were doing so. Her work spans coffee shops and corporate headquarters, wineries and community music centers, private homes and historic restorations. She's on the AD 100 list of top architects and designers and has been called one of the most influential architects working in LA today. In this episode, she shares her process, her influences, and the places in California that never stop inspiring her — from a former cult compound in Joshua Tree to a secret rooftop garden at Walt Disney Concert Hall. On this episode, you'll learn: • What "informal formalism" means — and why it's the best description of California's design DNA • How the LA fires, post-COVID remote work, and multi-generational households are reshaping what people want from their homes • Why adaptive reuse is finally having its moment in California • How to actually crack the code on Ojai and Big Sur (hint: find the vegan restaurant and ask your server) Travel recommendations from Barbara: Los Angeles Take the stairs at LA Phil to the rooftop garden Walk the Bradbury Building lobby (free; you'll recognize it from Blade Runner), then cross to Grand Central Market and ride Angel's Flight back up to MOCA. For neighborhoods: Melrose Hill is the current place to be; Magnolia and Victory Blvd in the Valley are time-capsule California. Northern California Stay in the original Charles Moore–designed Condominium One at Sea Ranch In the Bay Area, stay at the Julia Morgan–designed Berkeley City Club Ojai & Big Sur In Ojai, go to a vegan restaurant and ask your server where to go — that's how you find the hidden hot springs. Hotel El Roblar (designed by Ramin Shamshiri) is the new splurge hotel in Ojai. In Big Sur, Nepenthe is the move: a Wright-influenced 1950s restaurant with a giant patio and sweeping views. Joshua Tree Drive in from the top and exit at the low desert — two completely different biomes. Stay at the Institute of Mentalphysics, where the rooms were designed by Lloyd Wright, the son of Frank Lloyd Wright Catch a show at Pappy and Harriet's in Pioneertown, then detour to Palm Springs and take the Sunnylands tour for "peak high-sixties modernist golf living." Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:00 From Cambridge to California 00:04:00 What Informal Formalism Means 00:06:00 Designing for How We Live Now 00:09:00 California's Architectural Legacy 00:16:00 LA Neighborhoods Worth Exploring 00:23:00 An Architecture Tour of California 00:34:00 Joshua Tree and the Desert 00:39:00 Where Barbara Goes to Recharge Resources Bestor Architecture Explore the ⁠⁠Afar guide to California⁠ Watch the live recording of our Dallas event on YouTube. Listen to our other Unpacked Live episodes featuring Roderick Wyllie and Obi Kaufmann. Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:18:00 -0000 full Afar This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week, we hosted Unpacked Live — a live version of the podcast — in partnership with Visit California in Dallas, Texas. The event celebrated California's extraordinary creative landscape, and today's guest has been shaping the way Californians live, work, and gather for three decades. Barbara Bestor is the founder of Bestor Architecture, a Los Angeles studio she's led since 1995 — at a time when very few women were doing so. Her work spans coffee shops and corporate headquarters, wineries and community music centers, private homes and historic restorations. She's on the AD 100 list of top architects and designers and has been called one of the most influential architects working in LA today. In this episode, she shares her process, her influences, and the places in California that never stop inspiring her — from a former cult compound in Joshua Tree to a secret rooftop garden at Walt Disney Concert Hall. On this episode, you'll learn: • What "informal formalism" means — and why it's the best description of California's design DNA • How the LA fires, post-COVID remote work, and multi-generational households are reshaping what people want from their homes • Why adaptive reuse is finally having its moment in California • How to actually crack the code on Ojai and Big Sur (hint: find the vegan restaurant and ask your server) Travel recommendations from Barbara: Los Angeles Take the stairs at LA Phil to the rooftop garden Walk the Bradbury Building lobby (free; you'll recognize it from Blade Runner), then cross to Grand Central Market and ride Angel's Flight back up to MOCA. For neighborhoods: Melrose Hill is the current place to be; Magnolia and Victory Blvd in the Valley are time-capsule California. Northern California Stay in the original Charles Moore–designed Condominium One at Sea Ranch In the Bay Area, stay at the Julia Morgan–designed Berkeley City Club Ojai & Big Sur In Ojai, go to a vegan restaurant and ask your server where to go — that's how you find the hidden hot springs. Hotel El Roblar (designed by Ramin Shamshiri) is the new splurge hotel in Ojai. In Big Sur, Nepenthe is the move: a Wright-influenced 1950s restaurant with a giant patio and sweeping views. Joshua Tree Drive in from the top and exit at the low desert — two completely different biomes. Stay at the Institute of Mentalphysics, where the rooms were designed by Lloyd Wright, the son of Frank Lloyd Wright Catch a show at Pappy and Harriet's in Pioneertown, then detour to Palm Springs and take the Sunnylands tour for "peak high-sixties modernist golf living." Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:00 From Cambridge to California 00:04:00 What Informal Formalism Means 00:06:00 Designing for How We Live Now 00:09:00 California's Architectural Legacy 00:16:00 LA Neighborhoods Worth Exploring 00:23:00 An Architecture Tour of California 00:34:00 Joshua Tree and the Desert 00:39:00 Where Barbara Goes to Recharge Resources Bestor Architecture Explore the ⁠⁠Afar guide to California⁠ Watch the live recording of our Dallas event on YouTube. Listen to our other Unpacked Live episodes featuring Roderick Wyllie and Obi Kaufmann. Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week, we hosted Unpacked Live — a live version of the podcast — in partnership with Visit California in Dallas, Texas. The event celebrated California's extraordinary creative landscape, and today's guest has been shaping the way Californians live, work, and gather for three decades.

Barbara Bestor is the founder of Bestor Architecture, a Los Angeles studio she's led since 1995 — at a time when very few women were doing so. Her work spans coffee shops and corporate headquarters, wineries and community music centers, private homes and historic restorations. She's on the AD 100 list of top architects and designers and has been called one of the most influential architects working in LA today.

In this episode, she shares her process, her influences, and the places in California that never stop inspiring her — from a former cult compound in Joshua Tree to a secret rooftop garden at Walt Disney Concert Hall.

On this episode, you'll learn: • What "informal formalism" means — and why it's the best description of California's design DNA • How the LA fires, post-COVID remote work, and multi-generational households are reshaping what people want from their homes • Why adaptive reuse is finally having its moment in California • How to actually crack the code on Ojai and Big Sur (hint: find the vegan restaurant and ask your server)

Travel recommendations from Barbara:

Los Angeles

  • Take the stairs at LA Phil to the rooftop garden
  • Walk the Bradbury Building lobby (free; you'll recognize it from Blade Runner), then cross to Grand Central Market and ride Angel's Flight back up to MOCA.
  • For neighborhoods: Melrose Hill is the current place to be; Magnolia and Victory Blvd in the Valley are time-capsule California.

Northern California

  • Stay in the original Charles Moore–designed Condominium One at Sea Ranch
  • In the Bay Area, stay at the Julia Morgan–designed Berkeley City Club

Ojai & Big Sur

  • In Ojai, go to a vegan restaurant and ask your server where to go — that's how you find the hidden hot springs.
  • Hotel El Roblar (designed by Ramin Shamshiri) is the new splurge hotel in Ojai.
  • In Big Sur, Nepenthe is the move: a Wright-influenced 1950s restaurant with a giant patio and sweeping views.

Joshua Tree

  • Drive in from the top and exit at the low desert — two completely different biomes.
  • Stay at the Institute of Mentalphysics, where the rooms were designed by Lloyd Wright, the son of Frank Lloyd Wright
  • Catch a show at Pappy and Harriet's in Pioneertown, then detour to Palm Springs and take the Sunnylands tour for "peak high-sixties modernist golf living."

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:00 From Cambridge to California 00:04:00 What Informal Formalism Means 00:06:00 Designing for How We Live Now 00:09:00 California's Architectural Legacy 00:16:00 LA Neighborhoods Worth Exploring 00:23:00 An Architecture Tour of California 00:34:00 Joshua Tree and the Desert 00:39:00 Where Barbara Goes to Recharge


Resources

Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel.

Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2639 no The Naturalist Who's Been Decoding—and Painting—California's Wild Spaces for 30 Years This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week, we hosted Unpacked Live — a live version of the podcast — in partnership with Visit California in Dallas, Texas. The event celebrated California's extraordinary creative landscape, and today's guest is one of its most original voices. Obi Kaufmann is a naturalist, writer, and illustrator whose California Field Atlas series has redefined what a nature book can be. His books — filled with hand-painted watercolor maps, poetry, and decades of ecological research — don't tell you where to go or what you're looking at. They ask why the landscape works the way it does, and what it means to truly belong to a place. In this episode, Obi talks about growing up exploring Mount Diablo in Northern California, what makes a field atlas, and why he believes the future of California conservation depends on better poetry. On this episode, you'll learn: What a "field atlas" is — and why Obi had to invent the genre himself How Indigenous stewardship and traditional ecological knowledge are reshaping conservation in California Why Obi, one of California's great wilderness writers, is a proud city dweller in Oakland What to expect from his next three books Where to go right now to experience California's wildflower season at its peak Travel Recommendations from Obi: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park — Keep your eye on the California Native Plant Society or CalFlora for super bloom alerts; the window can be as short as a week Death Valley National Park — Another prime super bloom destination; timing is everything Big Sur — Highway 1 is open again; Obi recommends climbing a mountain and watching for California condors, which have rebounded from just 17 individuals in 1987 to over 500 today Pinnacles National Park — The smallest and least visited national park in California, with condor sightings along the High Peaks Trail; Obi calls it "a beautiful gem of wilderness" Mount Diablo — Obi's home mountain, 25 miles east of San Francisco; a lifelong study in ecological wonder Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:00 Growing Up on Mount Diablo 00:05:00 Inventing the Field Atlas 00:10:00 Conservation and the Word "Wilderness" 00:30:00 Living as an Urban Naturalist 00:37:00 What's Next: Books 7 Through 10 00:41:00 Where to Experience California Now Resources Obi Kaufmann's website and books Explore the Afar guide to California Watch the live recording of our Dallas event on YouTube Listen to our other Unpacked Live episodes featuring architect Barbara Bestor and landscape designer Roderick Wyllie Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0000 full Afar This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week, we hosted Unpacked Live — a live version of the podcast — in partnership with Visit California in Dallas, Texas. The event celebrated California's extraordinary creative landscape, and today's guest is one of its most original voices. Obi Kaufmann is a naturalist, writer, and illustrator whose California Field Atlas series has redefined what a nature book can be. His books — filled with hand-painted watercolor maps, poetry, and decades of ecological research — don't tell you where to go or what you're looking at. They ask why the landscape works the way it does, and what it means to truly belong to a place. In this episode, Obi talks about growing up exploring Mount Diablo in Northern California, what makes a field atlas, and why he believes the future of California conservation depends on better poetry. On this episode, you'll learn: What a "field atlas" is — and why Obi had to invent the genre himself How Indigenous stewardship and traditional ecological knowledge are reshaping conservation in California Why Obi, one of California's great wilderness writers, is a proud city dweller in Oakland What to expect from his next three books Where to go right now to experience California's wildflower season at its peak Travel Recommendations from Obi: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park — Keep your eye on the California Native Plant Society or CalFlora for super bloom alerts; the window can be as short as a week Death Valley National Park — Another prime super bloom destination; timing is everything Big Sur — Highway 1 is open again; Obi recommends climbing a mountain and watching for California condors, which have rebounded from just 17 individuals in 1987 to over 500 today Pinnacles National Park — The smallest and least visited national park in California, with condor sightings along the High Peaks Trail; Obi calls it "a beautiful gem of wilderness" Mount Diablo — Obi's home mountain, 25 miles east of San Francisco; a lifelong study in ecological wonder Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:00 Growing Up on Mount Diablo 00:05:00 Inventing the Field Atlas 00:10:00 Conservation and the Word "Wilderness" 00:30:00 Living as an Urban Naturalist 00:37:00 What's Next: Books 7 Through 10 00:41:00 Where to Experience California Now Resources Obi Kaufmann's website and books Explore the Afar guide to California Watch the live recording of our Dallas event on YouTube Listen to our other Unpacked Live episodes featuring architect Barbara Bestor and landscape designer Roderick Wyllie Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week, we hosted Unpacked Live — a live version of the podcast — in partnership with Visit California in Dallas, Texas. The event celebrated California's extraordinary creative landscape, and today's guest is one of its most original voices.

Obi Kaufmann is a naturalist, writer, and illustrator whose California Field Atlas series has redefined what a nature book can be. His books — filled with hand-painted watercolor maps, poetry, and decades of ecological research — don't tell you where to go or what you're looking at. They ask why the landscape works the way it does, and what it means to truly belong to a place.

In this episode, Obi talks about growing up exploring Mount Diablo in Northern California, what makes a field atlas, and why he believes the future of California conservation depends on better poetry.

On this episode, you'll learn:

  • What a "field atlas" is — and why Obi had to invent the genre himself
  • How Indigenous stewardship and traditional ecological knowledge are reshaping conservation in California
  • Why Obi, one of California's great wilderness writers, is a proud city dweller in Oakland
  • What to expect from his next three books
  • Where to go right now to experience California's wildflower season at its peak

Travel Recommendations from Obi:

  • Anza-Borrego Desert State Park — Keep your eye on the California Native Plant Society or CalFlora for super bloom alerts; the window can be as short as a week
  • Death Valley National Park — Another prime super bloom destination; timing is everything
  • Big Sur — Highway 1 is open again; Obi recommends climbing a mountain and watching for California condors, which have rebounded from just 17 individuals in 1987 to over 500 today
  • Pinnacles National Park — The smallest and least visited national park in California, with condor sightings along the High Peaks Trail; Obi calls it "a beautiful gem of wilderness"
  • Mount Diablo — Obi's home mountain, 25 miles east of San Francisco; a lifelong study in ecological wonder

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction

00:02:00 Growing Up on Mount Diablo

00:05:00 Inventing the Field Atlas

00:10:00 Conservation and the Word "Wilderness"

00:30:00 Living as an Urban Naturalist

00:37:00 What's Next: Books 7 Through 10

00:41:00 Where to Experience California Now


Resources

Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel.

Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2934 no He's Been Designing California's Outdoors for Decades. Here's What He's Learned. This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week, we hosted Unpacked Live — a live version of the podcast — in partnership with Visit California in Dallas, Texas. The event celebrated California's extraordinary creative landscape, and today's guest has literally shaped the ground beneath many Californian's feet. Roderick Wyllie is an award-winning landscape architect and founding partner of Surfacedesign Inc. A rare San Francisco native, he's helped design some of the Bay Area's most beloved public spaces, including the Lands End Visitor Center above Sutro Baths, a plaza at the Golden Gate Bridge, and Mission Bayfront Park. He also teaches at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. In this episode, Roderick talks about growing up in 1970s San Francisco, what it means to design with rather than against a place, and why he thinks California's greatest creative export might be optimism. On this episode, you'll learn: What it was like to grow up in San Francisco in the 1970s and 80s — and how that "wild frontier" shaped Roderick's creative practice Why Surfacedesign approaches every project like a crime scene investigation, searching for the story embedded in the land How Roderick thinks about water — both as a design tool and as a precious resource in a drought-prone state What he's learning from a current winery rethink at the iconic Robert Mondavi Winery in Napa Where he sends travelers who want to experience California through the lens of landscape and design Travel Recommendations from Roderick: Wineries & Gardens Faust, Napa Valley — A Victorian estate with planting designed to move from light to dark, inspired by the mythology of Faust; beautiful valley views Buena Vista Winery, Sonoma — One of California's most historically significant wine sites, beautifully sited with two landmark historic buildings Scribe, Sonoma — A more informal, less precious winery experience; Roderick especially admires the landscape work by Terramoto Ruth Bancroft Garden, Walnut Creek — A masterwork dry garden celebrating the succulent landscape; Roderick calls it "spectacular" Lotusland, Montecito — A fantasy of a California landscape with a larger-than-life history; the opera singer founder married nine times The Huntington, San Marino/Pasadena — Impeccably maintained, a spectacular garden destination Parks & Natural Spaces Golden Gate Park, San Francisco — "It always feels a little bigger than I think it's going to be" Point Reyes / Inverness — Roderick's favorite stretch of coast, particularly for seeing tule elk in the fog Blunk Space gallery, Point Reyes Station — A small gallery connected to the legacy of California sculptor JB Blunk Restaurants & Markets Valley Bar + Bottle, Sonoma — Informal, locally sourced, creative; Roderick's top pick Zuni Café, San Francisco — A California cuisine institution on Market Street; intimate despite its size Ferry Building Farmers Market, San Francisco — "Incredible to see these purveyors that are focused on peppers only or something like that" Modern Appealing Clothing (MAC), Hayes Valley — A quietly iconic SF clothing store recently named one of the 50 best in the US by the New York Times; Roderick designed a small interior garden inside the space Art & Culture Minnesota Street Project, Dogpatch — A collection of galleries with constantly rotating programming Bay Area Discovery Museum, Sausalito — Roderick and his team designed eucalyptus-inspired play structures; worth a visit even without kids Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:00 Growing Up in San Francisco 00:05:00 How Surfacedesign Works 00:08:00 Iconic Bay Area Projects 00:14:00 Water as Design and Resource 00:20:00 Designing Winery Landscapes 00:27:00 The California Creative Mindset 00:35:00 Where to Go in California Resources Surfacedesign Inc. — Roderick's firm Explore the ⁠Afar guide to California Watch the live recording of our Dallas event on YouTube Listen to our other Unpacked Live episodes featuring naturalist Obi Kaufmann and architect Barbara Bestor Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0000 full Afar This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week, we hosted Unpacked Live — a live version of the podcast — in partnership with Visit California in Dallas, Texas. The event celebrated California's extraordinary creative landscape, and today's guest has literally shaped the ground beneath many Californian's feet. Roderick Wyllie is an award-winning landscape architect and founding partner of Surfacedesign Inc. A rare San Francisco native, he's helped design some of the Bay Area's most beloved public spaces, including the Lands End Visitor Center above Sutro Baths, a plaza at the Golden Gate Bridge, and Mission Bayfront Park. He also teaches at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. In this episode, Roderick talks about growing up in 1970s San Francisco, what it means to design with rather than against a place, and why he thinks California's greatest creative export might be optimism. On this episode, you'll learn: What it was like to grow up in San Francisco in the 1970s and 80s — and how that "wild frontier" shaped Roderick's creative practice Why Surfacedesign approaches every project like a crime scene investigation, searching for the story embedded in the land How Roderick thinks about water — both as a design tool and as a precious resource in a drought-prone state What he's learning from a current winery rethink at the iconic Robert Mondavi Winery in Napa Where he sends travelers who want to experience California through the lens of landscape and design Travel Recommendations from Roderick: Wineries & Gardens Faust, Napa Valley — A Victorian estate with planting designed to move from light to dark, inspired by the mythology of Faust; beautiful valley views Buena Vista Winery, Sonoma — One of California's most historically significant wine sites, beautifully sited with two landmark historic buildings Scribe, Sonoma — A more informal, less precious winery experience; Roderick especially admires the landscape work by Terramoto Ruth Bancroft Garden, Walnut Creek — A masterwork dry garden celebrating the succulent landscape; Roderick calls it "spectacular" Lotusland, Montecito — A fantasy of a California landscape with a larger-than-life history; the opera singer founder married nine times The Huntington, San Marino/Pasadena — Impeccably maintained, a spectacular garden destination Parks & Natural Spaces Golden Gate Park, San Francisco — "It always feels a little bigger than I think it's going to be" Point Reyes / Inverness — Roderick's favorite stretch of coast, particularly for seeing tule elk in the fog Blunk Space gallery, Point Reyes Station — A small gallery connected to the legacy of California sculptor JB Blunk Restaurants & Markets Valley Bar + Bottle, Sonoma — Informal, locally sourced, creative; Roderick's top pick Zuni Café, San Francisco — A California cuisine institution on Market Street; intimate despite its size Ferry Building Farmers Market, San Francisco — "Incredible to see these purveyors that are focused on peppers only or something like that" Modern Appealing Clothing (MAC), Hayes Valley — A quietly iconic SF clothing store recently named one of the 50 best in the US by the New York Times; Roderick designed a small interior garden inside the space Art & Culture Minnesota Street Project, Dogpatch — A collection of galleries with constantly rotating programming Bay Area Discovery Museum, Sausalito — Roderick and his team designed eucalyptus-inspired play structures; worth a visit even without kids Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:00 Growing Up in San Francisco 00:05:00 How Surfacedesign Works 00:08:00 Iconic Bay Area Projects 00:14:00 Water as Design and Resource 00:20:00 Designing Winery Landscapes 00:27:00 The California Creative Mindset 00:35:00 Where to Go in California Resources Surfacedesign Inc. — Roderick's firm Explore the ⁠Afar guide to California Watch the live recording of our Dallas event on YouTube Listen to our other Unpacked Live episodes featuring naturalist Obi Kaufmann and architect Barbara Bestor Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week, we hosted Unpacked Live — a live version of the podcast — in partnership with Visit California in Dallas, Texas. The event celebrated California's extraordinary creative landscape, and today's guest has literally shaped the ground beneath many Californian's feet.

Roderick Wyllie is an award-winning landscape architect and founding partner of Surfacedesign Inc. A rare San Francisco native, he's helped design some of the Bay Area's most beloved public spaces, including the Lands End Visitor Center above Sutro Baths, a plaza at the Golden Gate Bridge, and Mission Bayfront Park. He also teaches at the Harvard Graduate School of Design.

In this episode, Roderick talks about growing up in 1970s San Francisco, what it means to design with rather than against a place, and why he thinks California's greatest creative export might be optimism.

On this episode, you'll learn:

What it was like to grow up in San Francisco in the 1970s and 80s — and how that "wild frontier" shaped Roderick's creative practice

Why Surfacedesign approaches every project like a crime scene investigation, searching for the story embedded in the land

How Roderick thinks about water — both as a design tool and as a precious resource in a drought-prone state

What he's learning from a current winery rethink at the iconic Robert Mondavi Winery in Napa

Where he sends travelers who want to experience California through the lens of landscape and design

Travel Recommendations from Roderick:

Wineries & Gardens

Faust, Napa Valley — A Victorian estate with planting designed to move from light to dark, inspired by the mythology of Faust; beautiful valley views

Buena Vista Winery, Sonoma — One of California's most historically significant wine sites, beautifully sited with two landmark historic buildings

Scribe, Sonoma — A more informal, less precious winery experience; Roderick especially admires the landscape work by Terramoto

Ruth Bancroft Garden, Walnut Creek — A masterwork dry garden celebrating the succulent landscape; Roderick calls it "spectacular"

Lotusland, Montecito — A fantasy of a California landscape with a larger-than-life history; the opera singer founder married nine times

The Huntington, San Marino/Pasadena — Impeccably maintained, a spectacular garden destination

Parks & Natural Spaces

Golden Gate Park, San Francisco — "It always feels a little bigger than I think it's going to be"

Point Reyes / Inverness — Roderick's favorite stretch of coast, particularly for seeing tule elk in the fog

Blunk Space gallery, Point Reyes Station — A small gallery connected to the legacy of California sculptor JB Blunk

Restaurants & Markets

Valley Bar + Bottle, Sonoma — Informal, locally sourced, creative; Roderick's top pick

Zuni Café, San Francisco — A California cuisine institution on Market Street; intimate despite its size

Ferry Building Farmers Market, San Francisco — "Incredible to see these purveyors that are focused on peppers only or something like that"

Modern Appealing Clothing (MAC), Hayes Valley — A quietly iconic SF clothing store recently named one of the 50 best in the US by the New York Times; Roderick designed a small interior garden inside the space

Art & Culture

Minnesota Street Project, Dogpatch — A collection of galleries with constantly rotating programming

Bay Area Discovery Museum, Sausalito — Roderick and his team designed eucalyptus-inspired play structures; worth a visit even without kids

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction

00:02:00 Growing Up in San Francisco

00:05:00 How Surfacedesign Works

00:08:00 Iconic Bay Area Projects

00:14:00 Water as Design and Resource

00:20:00 Designing Winery Landscapes

00:27:00 The California Creative Mindset

00:35:00 Where to Go in California


Resources

Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel.

Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2653 no Drama, Geopolitics, and Glory: Inside the World Cup Show Notes The World Cup is more than a soccer tournament — it's a mirror for geopolitics, national identity, and the power of global fandom. In this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene sits down with British journalist Jonathan Wilson, author of The Power and the Glory: The History of the World Cup, to explore the drama, corruption, and beauty that have defined the tournament across a century. In this episode, you'll learn: How hosting the World Cup has evolved from a nation-building tool to its current complex state — and who benefits now. What the expansion from 32 to 48 teams really means for the quality and spectacle of the game. Which teams Jonathan is watching in 2026, and the dark-horse picks you might not have on your radar. Chapters 00:00:00 Welcome to the World Cup Edition 00:01:30 Jonathan's Soccer Origin Story 00:07:30 Soccer, Politics, and Power 00:11:00 Who Actually Benefits From Hosting 00:21:30 The 2026 Expansion to 48 Teams 00:31:30 Teams to Watch in 2026 00:35:30 Stadiums With Stories Meet this week's guest: Jonathan Wilson, British sports journalist and author of The Power and the Glory: The History of the World Cup Resources: Explore Jonathan Wilson's books and writing on his website. Read The Power and the Glory: The History of the World Cup for the full sweep of FIFA history and drama. Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:49:00 -0000 full Afar Show Notes The World Cup is more than a soccer tournament — it's a mirror for geopolitics, national identity, and the power of global fandom. In this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene sits down with British journalist Jonathan Wilson, author of The Power and the Glory: The History of the World Cup, to explore the drama, corruption, and beauty that have defined the tournament across a century. In this episode, you'll learn: How hosting the World Cup has evolved from a nation-building tool to its current complex state — and who benefits now. What the expansion from 32 to 48 teams really means for the quality and spectacle of the game. Which teams Jonathan is watching in 2026, and the dark-horse picks you might not have on your radar. Chapters 00:00:00 Welcome to the World Cup Edition 00:01:30 Jonathan's Soccer Origin Story 00:07:30 Soccer, Politics, and Power 00:11:00 Who Actually Benefits From Hosting 00:21:30 The 2026 Expansion to 48 Teams 00:31:30 Teams to Watch in 2026 00:35:30 Stadiums With Stories Meet this week's guest: Jonathan Wilson, British sports journalist and author of The Power and the Glory: The History of the World Cup Resources: Explore Jonathan Wilson's books and writing on his website. Read The Power and the Glory: The History of the World Cup for the full sweep of FIFA history and drama. Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Show Notes

The World Cup is more than a soccer tournament — it's a mirror for geopolitics, national identity, and the power of global fandom. In this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene sits down with British journalist Jonathan Wilson, author of The Power and the Glory: The History of the World Cup, to explore the drama, corruption, and beauty that have defined the tournament across a century.

In this episode, you'll learn:

  • How hosting the World Cup has evolved from a nation-building tool to its current complex state — and who benefits now.
  • What the expansion from 32 to 48 teams really means for the quality and spectacle of the game.
  • Which teams Jonathan is watching in 2026, and the dark-horse picks you might not have on your radar.

Chapters

  • 00:00:00 Welcome to the World Cup Edition
  • 00:01:30 Jonathan's Soccer Origin Story
  • 00:07:30 Soccer, Politics, and Power
  • 00:11:00 Who Actually Benefits From Hosting
  • 00:21:30 The 2026 Expansion to 48 Teams
  • 00:31:30 Teams to Watch in 2026
  • 00:35:30 Stadiums With Stories

Meet this week's guest:

Jonathan Wilson, British sports journalist and author of The Power and the Glory: The History of the World Cup

Resources:

  • Explore Jonathan Wilson's books and writing on his website.
  • Read The Power and the Glory: The History of the World Cup for the full sweep of FIFA history and drama.

Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel.

Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2508 no This Theater Was a Refuge for Queer Americans. Now It's Been Reborn. She’s 104 years old, newly renovated, and she’s ready for her close-up. On this episode of Unpacked: America 250, host Aislyn Greene talks about the newly renovated ⁠Castro Theatre⁠ in San Francisco, a $41 million transformation of one of America’s most beloved LGBTQ+ landmarks. Aislyn sits down with Mary Conde, SVP at ⁠Another Planet Entertainment⁠, the independent concert promoter behind the renovation, to explore what it took to bring this icon back to life, and why this was always about more than a building. In this episode, you'll learn The history behind the Castro Theatre, from a Lebanese immigrant’s grocery store to a 1,400-seat icon. How the Castro became the heartbeat of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ community. What a $41 million renovation actually looks like, from a peach-glazed ceiling to a color-changing chandelier. The story of the organs (yes, plural) that have defined the Castro’s sound for decades. Why Another Planet Entertainment sees this as a gift to San Francisco, not just a business investment. Chapters 00:00:00 The Castro's Comeback 00:02:00 From Grocery Store to Icon 00:05:30 A Safe Harbor for a Community 00:09:00 Inside the Renovation 00:13:00 The Organ's New Life 00:15:30 What's Coming Next Meet this week’s guest Mary Conde, Senior Vice President at Another Planet Entertainment and a lifelong San Franciscan who has shaped the city’s music scene for decades. Another Planet is the independent concert promoter behind Outside Lands and the recent mayoral inauguration party, and the company that took on the Castro’s renovation. Resources Read the transcript of this episode. Explore the history of the ⁠Castro Theater⁠. Buy tickets for upcoming ⁠Castro events⁠. Read about the ⁠Frameline LGBTQ+ Film Festival⁠. Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 17 Mar 2026 13:37:00 -0000 bonus Afar She’s 104 years old, newly renovated, and she’s ready for her close-up. On this episode of Unpacked: America 250, host Aislyn Greene talks about the newly renovated ⁠Castro Theatre⁠ in San Francisco, a $41 million transformation of one of America’s most beloved LGBTQ+ landmarks. Aislyn sits down with Mary Conde, SVP at ⁠Another Planet Entertainment⁠, the independent concert promoter behind the renovation, to explore what it took to bring this icon back to life, and why this was always about more than a building. In this episode, you'll learn The history behind the Castro Theatre, from a Lebanese immigrant’s grocery store to a 1,400-seat icon. How the Castro became the heartbeat of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ community. What a $41 million renovation actually looks like, from a peach-glazed ceiling to a color-changing chandelier. The story of the organs (yes, plural) that have defined the Castro’s sound for decades. Why Another Planet Entertainment sees this as a gift to San Francisco, not just a business investment. Chapters 00:00:00 The Castro's Comeback 00:02:00 From Grocery Store to Icon 00:05:30 A Safe Harbor for a Community 00:09:00 Inside the Renovation 00:13:00 The Organ's New Life 00:15:30 What's Coming Next Meet this week’s guest Mary Conde, Senior Vice President at Another Planet Entertainment and a lifelong San Franciscan who has shaped the city’s music scene for decades. Another Planet is the independent concert promoter behind Outside Lands and the recent mayoral inauguration party, and the company that took on the Castro’s renovation. Resources Read the transcript of this episode. Explore the history of the ⁠Castro Theater⁠. Buy tickets for upcoming ⁠Castro events⁠. Read about the ⁠Frameline LGBTQ+ Film Festival⁠. Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices She’s 104 years old, newly renovated, and she’s ready for her close-up.

On this episode of Unpacked: America 250, host Aislyn Greene talks about the newly renovated ⁠Castro Theatre⁠ in San Francisco, a $41 million transformation of one of America’s most beloved LGBTQ+ landmarks.

Aislyn sits down with Mary Conde, SVP at ⁠Another Planet Entertainment⁠, the independent concert promoter behind the renovation, to explore what it took to bring this icon back to life, and why this was always about more than a building.


In this episode, you'll learn

  • The history behind the Castro Theatre, from a Lebanese immigrant’s grocery store to a 1,400-seat icon.
  • How the Castro became the heartbeat of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ community.
  • What a $41 million renovation actually looks like, from a peach-glazed ceiling to a color-changing chandelier.
  • The story of the organs (yes, plural) that have defined the Castro’s sound for decades.
  • Why Another Planet Entertainment sees this as a gift to San Francisco, not just a business investment.


Chapters
00:00:00 The Castro's Comeback

00:02:00 From Grocery Store to Icon

00:05:30 A Safe Harbor for a Community

00:09:00 Inside the Renovation

00:13:00 The Organ's New Life

00:15:30 What's Coming Next

Meet this week’s guest

Mary Conde, Senior Vice President at Another Planet Entertainment and a lifelong San Franciscan who has shaped the city’s music scene for decades. Another Planet is the independent concert promoter behind Outside Lands and the recent mayoral inauguration party, and the company that took on the Castro’s renovation.

Resources


Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel.
Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1172 no The Hidden History of the World's Most Powerful Travel Document Before you board an international flight, before you cross a border, you need a passport. But how much do you really know about the little book that controls where you can and cannot go in this world? On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene sits down with Patrick Bixby, an English professor at Arizona State University and author of the book License to Travel: A Cultural History of the Passport, which explores how a bureaucratic document became one of the most emotionally loaded objects in human history. In the episode, they discuss the passport as a paradox: a document that simultaneously promises freedom and enforces control, that carries the hopes of liberation and the machinery of surveillance. You'll come away seeing that little booklet in your drawer in a completely different light. In this episode, you'll learn Why the passport as we know it was born out of World War I — and why those wartime controls never went away. How the word "passport" dates to 15th-century France, and why Shakespeare wrote about it. What Frederick Douglass's passport journey reveals about citizenship, race, and the fight for identity.Why the US passport ranks around 30th in global passport power — and what that means for American travelers. What's coming next: digital borders, blockchain credentials, and the end of the stamp. Key chapters 00:00:00 The Paradox of the Passport 00:04:00 A History Older Than Nations 00:09:00 The WWI Origins of Modern Travel 00:11:00 Gender, Race, and the Document 00:16:00 What Makes a Passport Powerful 00:20:00 Stamps, Surveillance, and the Digital Border 00:26:00 Do You Believe in the Passport? Meet this week's guest Patrick Bixby, English professor, cultural historian, and author of License to Travel: A Cultural History of the Passport Resources Read the afar.com story about the world's most powerful passports. Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:09:00 -0000 full Afar Before you board an international flight, before you cross a border, you need a passport. But how much do you really know about the little book that controls where you can and cannot go in this world? On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene sits down with Patrick Bixby, an English professor at Arizona State University and author of the book License to Travel: A Cultural History of the Passport, which explores how a bureaucratic document became one of the most emotionally loaded objects in human history. In the episode, they discuss the passport as a paradox: a document that simultaneously promises freedom and enforces control, that carries the hopes of liberation and the machinery of surveillance. You'll come away seeing that little booklet in your drawer in a completely different light. In this episode, you'll learn Why the passport as we know it was born out of World War I — and why those wartime controls never went away. How the word "passport" dates to 15th-century France, and why Shakespeare wrote about it. What Frederick Douglass's passport journey reveals about citizenship, race, and the fight for identity.Why the US passport ranks around 30th in global passport power — and what that means for American travelers. What's coming next: digital borders, blockchain credentials, and the end of the stamp. Key chapters 00:00:00 The Paradox of the Passport 00:04:00 A History Older Than Nations 00:09:00 The WWI Origins of Modern Travel 00:11:00 Gender, Race, and the Document 00:16:00 What Makes a Passport Powerful 00:20:00 Stamps, Surveillance, and the Digital Border 00:26:00 Do You Believe in the Passport? Meet this week's guest Patrick Bixby, English professor, cultural historian, and author of License to Travel: A Cultural History of the Passport Resources Read the afar.com story about the world's most powerful passports. Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Before you board an international flight, before you cross a border, you need a passport. But how much do you really know about the little book that controls where you can and cannot go in this world?

On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene sits down with Patrick Bixby, an English professor at Arizona State University and author of the book License to Travel: A Cultural History of the Passport, which explores how a bureaucratic document became one of the most emotionally loaded objects in human history.

In the episode, they discuss the passport as a paradox: a document that simultaneously promises freedom and enforces control, that carries the hopes of liberation and the machinery of surveillance. You'll come away seeing that little booklet in your drawer in a completely different light.


In this episode, you'll learn

    • Why the passport as we know it was born out of World War I — and why those wartime controls never went away.
    • How the word "passport" dates to 15th-century France, and why Shakespeare wrote about it.
    • What Frederick Douglass's passport journey reveals about citizenship, race, and the fight for identity.Why the US passport ranks around 30th in global passport power — and what that means for American travelers.
    • What's coming next: digital borders, blockchain credentials, and the end of the stamp.


Key chapters

00:00:00 The Paradox of the Passport 00:04:00 A History Older Than Nations 00:09:00 The WWI Origins of Modern Travel 00:11:00 Gender, Race, and the Document 00:16:00 What Makes a Passport Powerful 00:20:00 Stamps, Surveillance, and the Digital Border 00:26:00 Do You Believe in the Passport?


Meet this week's guest

Patrick Bixby, English professor, cultural historian, and author of License to Travel: A Cultural History of the Passport

Resources

  • Read the afar.com story about the world's most powerful passports.

    Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and ⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    • Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2046 no     The Military Secret That Could End Your Jet Lag Suffering Jet lag doesn't have to ruin your trip. On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene shares her game-changing experience using a jet lag protocol originally developed for Navy SEALs—and digs into the fascinating science of why it works. She speaks with Dr. Jamie Zeitzer, one of Stanford's leading circadian rhythm researchers, and Andrew Herr, the founder of Flykitt, who transformed military sleep science into a practical travel solution. In this episode, you'll learn What's really happening in your body when you cross time zones Why light exposure is exponentially more powerful than you think How psychology and expectation affect your jet lag experience The surprising role of inflammation in post-flight fatigue Episode chapters 00:00:00 The Unofficial Travel Tax 00:01:45 Inside Your Circadian Clock 00:05:30 Light, Food, and Melatonin 00:09:00 How Flykitt Was Born 00:11:30 The Protocol, Step by Step Meet this week's guests Dr. Jamie Zeitzer, Co-Director of the Stanford Center for Sleep and Circadian Rhythms Andrew Herr, Founder of Flykitt Resources Read Aislyn's full Fly Kit review and experience Try Flykitt yourself: Afar listeners get 10% off with promo code AFAR10 Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 05 Mar 2026 16:41:00 -0000 full Afar Jet lag doesn't have to ruin your trip. On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene shares her game-changing experience using a jet lag protocol originally developed for Navy SEALs—and digs into the fascinating science of why it works. She speaks with Dr. Jamie Zeitzer, one of Stanford's leading circadian rhythm researchers, and Andrew Herr, the founder of Flykitt, who transformed military sleep science into a practical travel solution. In this episode, you'll learn What's really happening in your body when you cross time zones Why light exposure is exponentially more powerful than you think How psychology and expectation affect your jet lag experience The surprising role of inflammation in post-flight fatigue Episode chapters 00:00:00 The Unofficial Travel Tax 00:01:45 Inside Your Circadian Clock 00:05:30 Light, Food, and Melatonin 00:09:00 How Flykitt Was Born 00:11:30 The Protocol, Step by Step Meet this week's guests Dr. Jamie Zeitzer, Co-Director of the Stanford Center for Sleep and Circadian Rhythms Andrew Herr, Founder of Flykitt Resources Read Aislyn's full Fly Kit review and experience Try Flykitt yourself: Afar listeners get 10% off with promo code AFAR10 Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Jet lag doesn't have to ruin your trip. On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene shares her game-changing experience using a jet lag protocol originally developed for Navy SEALs—and digs into the fascinating science of why it works. She speaks with Dr. Jamie Zeitzer, one of Stanford's leading circadian rhythm researchers, and Andrew Herr, the founder of Flykitt, who transformed military sleep science into a practical travel solution.

    In this episode, you'll learn

    • What's really happening in your body when you cross time zones
    • Why light exposure is exponentially more powerful than you think
    • How psychology and expectation affect your jet lag experience
    • The surprising role of inflammation in post-flight fatigue

    Episode chapters 00:00:00 The Unofficial Travel Tax

    00:01:45 Inside Your Circadian Clock

    00:05:30 Light, Food, and Melatonin

    00:09:00 How Flykitt Was Born

    00:11:30 The Protocol, Step by Step

    Meet this week's guests

    Resources

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1520 no     Beyond the Canals: An Insider’s Guide to Amsterdam’s Real Neighborhoods Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most overtouristed cities—but it’s also so much more than the crowds in the city center suggest. On this episode of Unpacked—part of Afar’s ongoing Off the Tourist Trail series—host Aislyn Greene is joined by journalist Blane Bachelor, who moved to Amsterdam during the pandemic and has spent years navigating life as a resident. She shares how to experience the real Amsterdam—the neighborhoods, restaurants, and rhythms that exist just beyond the tourist-packed city center.   In this episode, you’ll learn •       Why Amsterdam’s overtourism problem is really concentrated in just a few city-center neighborhoods—and how to avoid them •       The best neighborhoods to stay in, including the artsy Noord and the very-Dutch Oost •       When to visit for fewer crowds: the Amsterdam Light Festival in November and King’s Day in April •       How to experience the Red Light District (De Wallen) thoughtfully and with historical context •       The unwritten rules of cycling in Amsterdam—and why this is not the place to shake off the cobwebs •       Where locals actually eat and drink, including a 17th-century gilded unicorn and a cash-only Dutch bar   Episode chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:30 Amsterdam's overtourism problem 12:00 Best neighborhoods to stay in: Oost and Noord 15:00 Best times to visit 21:00 Where to stay: hotels vs. Airbnb 24:30 First-timer tips for the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum 29:00 Navigating the Red Light District (De Wallen) 40:30 Dutch culture: directness, English fluency, and learning a few words 43:00 Cycling in Amsterdam: rules, etiquette, and survival tips   Resources •       Read Blaine’s Amsterdam Off the Beaten Path story on afar.com •       Follow Blaine’s Dutch adventures on Instagram •       Check out our Iceland and England Off the Tourist Trail episodes   Where to Stay •       Rosewood Amsterdam — The last hotel to be built in Amsterdam due to overtourism restrictions •       Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht — Playful Dutch-designed interiors; canal-view rooms feel like you’re on the water •       The Hoxton, Amsterdam — Two locations; the Eastern Docklands outpost is a local favorite •       Hotel Arena — In Oost; known for its exceptional weekend brunch buffet   What to Do •       Anne Frank House — Book immediately; tickets drop every Tuesday at 10 AM Amsterdam time, six weeks out •       Rijksmuseum — Check for evening hours for a slightly less hectic visit •       Prostitution Information Centre (De Wallen) — A thoughtful entry point into De Wallen’s history and culture •       Vintage salon boat canal tours — Go small and guided; avoid the large party “buses” •       Amsterdam Light Festival — November–January; illuminated art along the canals •       King’s Day (Koningsdag) — April 27; street markets, orange everything, genuinely local vibe •       Free ferries from Amsterdam Centraal to Noord — Walk or ride your bike on; no ticket needed •       Tulip fields near Keukenhof — View from the field edges in spring; don’t walk into the flowers •       SAIL Amsterdam 2030 — The world’s largest maritime event, returning in 2030   Stay Connected •       Sign up for Behind the Mic, our podcast newsletter with episode news and behind-the-scenes details. •       Also from Afar: View From Afar (the future of travel) and Travel Tales (first-person travel stories).   Unpacked by Afar is part of Airwave Media’s podcast network. To advertise, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 27 Feb 2026 17:10:00 -0000 full Afar Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most overtouristed cities—but it’s also so much more than the crowds in the city center suggest. On this episode of Unpacked—part of Afar’s ongoing Off the Tourist Trail series—host Aislyn Greene is joined by journalist Blane Bachelor, who moved to Amsterdam during the pandemic and has spent years navigating life as a resident. She shares how to experience the real Amsterdam—the neighborhoods, restaurants, and rhythms that exist just beyond the tourist-packed city center.   In this episode, you’ll learn •       Why Amsterdam’s overtourism problem is really concentrated in just a few city-center neighborhoods—and how to avoid them •       The best neighborhoods to stay in, including the artsy Noord and the very-Dutch Oost •       When to visit for fewer crowds: the Amsterdam Light Festival in November and King’s Day in April •       How to experience the Red Light District (De Wallen) thoughtfully and with historical context •       The unwritten rules of cycling in Amsterdam—and why this is not the place to shake off the cobwebs •       Where locals actually eat and drink, including a 17th-century gilded unicorn and a cash-only Dutch bar   Episode chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:30 Amsterdam's overtourism problem 12:00 Best neighborhoods to stay in: Oost and Noord 15:00 Best times to visit 21:00 Where to stay: hotels vs. Airbnb 24:30 First-timer tips for the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum 29:00 Navigating the Red Light District (De Wallen) 40:30 Dutch culture: directness, English fluency, and learning a few words 43:00 Cycling in Amsterdam: rules, etiquette, and survival tips   Resources •       Read Blaine’s Amsterdam Off the Beaten Path story on afar.com •       Follow Blaine’s Dutch adventures on Instagram •       Check out our Iceland and England Off the Tourist Trail episodes   Where to Stay •       Rosewood Amsterdam — The last hotel to be built in Amsterdam due to overtourism restrictions •       Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht — Playful Dutch-designed interiors; canal-view rooms feel like you’re on the water •       The Hoxton, Amsterdam — Two locations; the Eastern Docklands outpost is a local favorite •       Hotel Arena — In Oost; known for its exceptional weekend brunch buffet   What to Do •       Anne Frank House — Book immediately; tickets drop every Tuesday at 10 AM Amsterdam time, six weeks out •       Rijksmuseum — Check for evening hours for a slightly less hectic visit •       Prostitution Information Centre (De Wallen) — A thoughtful entry point into De Wallen’s history and culture •       Vintage salon boat canal tours — Go small and guided; avoid the large party “buses” •       Amsterdam Light Festival — November–January; illuminated art along the canals •       King’s Day (Koningsdag) — April 27; street markets, orange everything, genuinely local vibe •       Free ferries from Amsterdam Centraal to Noord — Walk or ride your bike on; no ticket needed •       Tulip fields near Keukenhof — View from the field edges in spring; don’t walk into the flowers •       SAIL Amsterdam 2030 — The world’s largest maritime event, returning in 2030   Stay Connected •       Sign up for Behind the Mic, our podcast newsletter with episode news and behind-the-scenes details. •       Also from Afar: View From Afar (the future of travel) and Travel Tales (first-person travel stories).   Unpacked by Afar is part of Airwave Media’s podcast network. To advertise, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most overtouristed cities—but it’s also so much more than the crowds in the city center suggest. On this episode of Unpacked—part of Afar’s ongoing Off the Tourist Trail series—host Aislyn Greene is joined by journalist Blane Bachelor, who moved to Amsterdam during the pandemic and has spent years navigating life as a resident. She shares how to experience the real Amsterdam—the neighborhoods, restaurants, and rhythms that exist just beyond the tourist-packed city center.

     

    In this episode, you’ll learn

    •       Why Amsterdam’s overtourism problem is really concentrated in just a few city-center neighborhoods—and how to avoid them

    •       The best neighborhoods to stay in, including the artsy Noord and the very-Dutch Oost

    •       When to visit for fewer crowds: the Amsterdam Light Festival in November and King’s Day in April

    •       How to experience the Red Light District (De Wallen) thoughtfully and with historical context

    •       The unwritten rules of cycling in Amsterdam—and why this is not the place to shake off the cobwebs

    •       Where locals actually eat and drink, including a 17th-century gilded unicorn and a cash-only Dutch bar

     

    Episode chapters

    00:00 Introduction

    04:30 Amsterdam's overtourism problem

    12:00 Best neighborhoods to stay in: Oost and Noord

    15:00 Best times to visit

    21:00 Where to stay: hotels vs. Airbnb

    24:30 First-timer tips for the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum

    29:00 Navigating the Red Light District (De Wallen)

    40:30 Dutch culture: directness, English fluency, and learning a few words

    43:00 Cycling in Amsterdam: rules, etiquette, and survival tips


     

    Resources

    •       Read Blaine’s Amsterdam Off the Beaten Path story on afar.com

    •       Follow Blaine’s Dutch adventures on Instagram

    •       Check out our Iceland and England Off the Tourist Trail episodes

     

    Where to Stay

    •       Rosewood Amsterdam — The last hotel to be built in Amsterdam due to overtourism restrictions

    •       Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht — Playful Dutch-designed interiors; canal-view rooms feel like you’re on the water

    •       The Hoxton, Amsterdam — Two locations; the Eastern Docklands outpost is a local favorite

    •       Hotel Arena — In Oost; known for its exceptional weekend brunch buffet

     

    What to Do

    •       Anne Frank House — Book immediately; tickets drop every Tuesday at 10 AM Amsterdam time, six weeks out

    •       Rijksmuseum — Check for evening hours for a slightly less hectic visit

    •       Prostitution Information Centre (De Wallen) — A thoughtful entry point into De Wallen’s history and culture

    •       Vintage salon boat canal tours — Go small and guided; avoid the large party “buses”

    •       Amsterdam Light Festival — November–January; illuminated art along the canals

    •       King’s Day (Koningsdag) — April 27; street markets, orange everything, genuinely local vibe

    •       Free ferries from Amsterdam Centraal to Noord — Walk or ride your bike on; no ticket needed

    •       Tulip fields near Keukenhof — View from the field edges in spring; don’t walk into the flowers

    •       SAIL Amsterdam 2030 — The world’s largest maritime event, returning in 2030

     

    Stay Connected

    •       Sign up for Behind the Mic, our podcast newsletter with episode news and behind-the-scenes details.

    •       Also from Afar: View From Afar (the future of travel) and Travel Tales (first-person travel stories).

     

    Unpacked by Afar is part of Airwave Media’s podcast network. To advertise, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com 

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3504 no     The Lowdown on 2026: Everything You Need to Make It Your Best Travel Year Yet Is it okay to watch a violent movie next to a stranger's kid on a plane? Should you abandon your airline loyalty card? And wait—is March actually the real start of the new year? On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene is joined by Afar editorial director Billy Cohen and deputy editor Michelle Baron for a wide-ranging conversation tied to Afar's annual Plan Your Travel Year package on afar.com. Together they break down what travelers actually need to know heading into 2026—from the shifting airline loyalty landscape and the true cost of travel credit cards to the events, destinations, and flight routes worth planning around this year. Plus: Michelle debuts a very special musical interlude. You'll want to stay for that. On this episode you'll learn: Why February (or maybe March?) is the real time to start planning your travel year How the airline loyalty and travel credit card game has changed—and what to do about it Which destinations are worth getting to before they blow up (Malta and Panama are calling) What events—from the World Cup to America's 250th—are shaping travel in 2026 Tips for stretching your PTO using federal holidays strategically Don't miss these moments: [01:45] The lightning round: TSA PreCheck, window vs. aisle, and travel credit cards in one word (or two) [09:45] Why the airline loyalty game "isn't so loyal anymore" [16:00] The Chase Sapphire Reserve breakup, and what it means for your points strategy [25:20] Biometrics, face scanning, and how close we really are to a passport-free airport [30:00] The lounge wars—and the case for a family-friendly soundproof play area [33:30] America 250: Tall ships in New York, a new Roosevelt Presidential Library, and a reexamination of the Battle of Little Bighorn [38:00] World Cup 2026: How to get tickets, where to stay, and why Providence might be smarter than Boston [44:30] How to stretch your PTO using federal holidays—and why Terry Ward changed Michelle's mind [48:30] Places to go before they get popular: Panama, Malta, Warsaw, and more [54:00] Revisiting the lightning round—and Billy's unexpected in-flight encounter with a Mad Men star's dad Resources: Explore Afar's complete ⁠Plan Your Travel Year⁠ package on afar.com. Read our story about whether or not airline loyalty is still worth it. Read Terry Ward's story on ⁠how to maximize your PTO⁠ in 2026. Read Afar's guide to ⁠12 places to visit before they get popular⁠. Explore Afar's ⁠Where to Go in 2026⁠ list. Stay up to date with Afar's ⁠travel news coverage⁠, including airline routes, loyalty programs, and credit card updates. Use ⁠points.me⁠ or ⁠Points Path⁠ to help maximize your miles and points redemptions. Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and View From Afar, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sat, 21 Feb 2026 00:46:00 -0000 full Afar Is it okay to watch a violent movie next to a stranger's kid on a plane? Should you abandon your airline loyalty card? And wait—is March actually the real start of the new year? On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene is joined by Afar editorial director Billy Cohen and deputy editor Michelle Baron for a wide-ranging conversation tied to Afar's annual Plan Your Travel Year package on afar.com. Together they break down what travelers actually need to know heading into 2026—from the shifting airline loyalty landscape and the true cost of travel credit cards to the events, destinations, and flight routes worth planning around this year. Plus: Michelle debuts a very special musical interlude. You'll want to stay for that. On this episode you'll learn: Why February (or maybe March?) is the real time to start planning your travel year How the airline loyalty and travel credit card game has changed—and what to do about it Which destinations are worth getting to before they blow up (Malta and Panama are calling) What events—from the World Cup to America's 250th—are shaping travel in 2026 Tips for stretching your PTO using federal holidays strategically Don't miss these moments: [01:45] The lightning round: TSA PreCheck, window vs. aisle, and travel credit cards in one word (or two) [09:45] Why the airline loyalty game "isn't so loyal anymore" [16:00] The Chase Sapphire Reserve breakup, and what it means for your points strategy [25:20] Biometrics, face scanning, and how close we really are to a passport-free airport [30:00] The lounge wars—and the case for a family-friendly soundproof play area [33:30] America 250: Tall ships in New York, a new Roosevelt Presidential Library, and a reexamination of the Battle of Little Bighorn [38:00] World Cup 2026: How to get tickets, where to stay, and why Providence might be smarter than Boston [44:30] How to stretch your PTO using federal holidays—and why Terry Ward changed Michelle's mind [48:30] Places to go before they get popular: Panama, Malta, Warsaw, and more [54:00] Revisiting the lightning round—and Billy's unexpected in-flight encounter with a Mad Men star's dad Resources: Explore Afar's complete ⁠Plan Your Travel Year⁠ package on afar.com. Read our story about whether or not airline loyalty is still worth it. Read Terry Ward's story on ⁠how to maximize your PTO⁠ in 2026. Read Afar's guide to ⁠12 places to visit before they get popular⁠. Explore Afar's ⁠Where to Go in 2026⁠ list. Stay up to date with Afar's ⁠travel news coverage⁠, including airline routes, loyalty programs, and credit card updates. Use ⁠points.me⁠ or ⁠Points Path⁠ to help maximize your miles and points redemptions. Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and View From Afar, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Is it okay to watch a violent movie next to a stranger's kid on a plane? Should you abandon your airline loyalty card? And wait—is March actually the real start of the new year?

    On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene is joined by Afar editorial director Billy Cohen and deputy editor Michelle Baron for a wide-ranging conversation tied to Afar's annual Plan Your Travel Year package on afar.com. Together they break down what travelers actually need to know heading into 2026—from the shifting airline loyalty landscape and the true cost of travel credit cards to the events, destinations, and flight routes worth planning around this year.

    Plus: Michelle debuts a very special musical interlude. You'll want to stay for that.

    On this episode you'll learn:

    • Why February (or maybe March?) is the real time to start planning your travel year
    • How the airline loyalty and travel credit card game has changed—and what to do about it
    • Which destinations are worth getting to before they blow up (Malta and Panama are calling)
    • What events—from the World Cup to America's 250th—are shaping travel in 2026
    • Tips for stretching your PTO using federal holidays strategically

    Don't miss these moments:

    • [01:45] The lightning round: TSA PreCheck, window vs. aisle, and travel credit cards in one word (or two)
    • [09:45] Why the airline loyalty game "isn't so loyal anymore"
    • [16:00] The Chase Sapphire Reserve breakup, and what it means for your points strategy
    • [25:20] Biometrics, face scanning, and how close we really are to a passport-free airport
    • [30:00] The lounge wars—and the case for a family-friendly soundproof play area
    • [33:30] America 250: Tall ships in New York, a new Roosevelt Presidential Library, and a reexamination of the Battle of Little Bighorn
    • [38:00] World Cup 2026: How to get tickets, where to stay, and why Providence might be smarter than Boston
    • [44:30] How to stretch your PTO using federal holidays—and why Terry Ward changed Michelle's mind
    • [48:30] Places to go before they get popular: Panama, Malta, Warsaw, and more
    • [54:00] Revisiting the lightning round—and Billy's unexpected in-flight encounter with a Mad Men star's dad

    Resources:

    Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and View From Afar, where we spotlight the people and ideas shaping the future of travel.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     4028 no     Why Spain’s Star Chefs Are Setting Up Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Tiny Towns Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host and Afar executive editor Katherine LaGrave sits down with contributing writer Lisa Abend, a Copenhagen‑based journalist known for her deep reporting on food, culture, and the ways travel shapes communities. For her latest Afar feature, Lisa embarked on an ambitious road trip across northern Spain to visit five tiny towns where some of the country’s most exciting chefs are opening destination restaurants — and, in the process, helping revive regions long affected by depopulation. Lisa shares how she first discovered this movement, why these chefs are choosing villages of just a few hundred residents over major cities, and how their restaurants are sparking unexpected ripple effects — from new guesthouses to revived local food traditions. She also talks about the surprising absence of seafood in northern Spain’s inland kitchens, the emotional family histories behind many of these restaurants, and why chatting with gas‑station attendants might be the best road‑trip advice you’ll hear all year. On this episode you’ll learn: Why some of Spain’s most ambitious chefs are opening restaurants in remote villages How food tourism can help counter rural depopulation What makes northern Spain’s regional cultures so distinct — from language to landscape to cuisine Why hyperlocal cooking in these towns often excludes seafood, even when the coast is close How family history shapes the stories these chefs tell on the plate Don’t miss these moments: [03:00] The Madrid chef conference that sparked Lisa’s reporting [05:00] How a single restaurant can create a ripple effect across a small town [07:00] The surprising reason none of these restaurants serve seafood [14:00] Lisa’s best advice for road‑tripping across northern Spain [16:00] The gas‑station cherry exchange that became an unforgettable travel moment [21:00] The “pregnant bun” dish Lisa would eat again in a heartbeat [22:00] How family stories — and even abandoned villages — shaped the chefs’ menus Resources Read Lisa’s full Afar feature on Spain’s small‑town culinary revolution Follow Lisa Abend for more food and travel reporting Explore Afar’s Spain travel guides Visit the restaurants Lisa mentions in the episode and her story: Versátil, Monte, Arrea!, Ansils, Fuentelgato  Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming episodes and behind‑the‑scenes details. You can also explore our other podcasts: View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and Travel Tales, which celebrates first‑person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. To inquire about advertising, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 17 Feb 2026 08:01:00 -0000 full Afar Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host and Afar executive editor Katherine LaGrave sits down with contributing writer Lisa Abend, a Copenhagen‑based journalist known for her deep reporting on food, culture, and the ways travel shapes communities. For her latest Afar feature, Lisa embarked on an ambitious road trip across northern Spain to visit five tiny towns where some of the country’s most exciting chefs are opening destination restaurants — and, in the process, helping revive regions long affected by depopulation. Lisa shares how she first discovered this movement, why these chefs are choosing villages of just a few hundred residents over major cities, and how their restaurants are sparking unexpected ripple effects — from new guesthouses to revived local food traditions. She also talks about the surprising absence of seafood in northern Spain’s inland kitchens, the emotional family histories behind many of these restaurants, and why chatting with gas‑station attendants might be the best road‑trip advice you’ll hear all year. On this episode you’ll learn: Why some of Spain’s most ambitious chefs are opening restaurants in remote villages How food tourism can help counter rural depopulation What makes northern Spain’s regional cultures so distinct — from language to landscape to cuisine Why hyperlocal cooking in these towns often excludes seafood, even when the coast is close How family history shapes the stories these chefs tell on the plate Don’t miss these moments: [03:00] The Madrid chef conference that sparked Lisa’s reporting [05:00] How a single restaurant can create a ripple effect across a small town [07:00] The surprising reason none of these restaurants serve seafood [14:00] Lisa’s best advice for road‑tripping across northern Spain [16:00] The gas‑station cherry exchange that became an unforgettable travel moment [21:00] The “pregnant bun” dish Lisa would eat again in a heartbeat [22:00] How family stories — and even abandoned villages — shaped the chefs’ menus Resources Read Lisa’s full Afar feature on Spain’s small‑town culinary revolution Follow Lisa Abend for more food and travel reporting Explore Afar’s Spain travel guides Visit the restaurants Lisa mentions in the episode and her story: Versátil, Monte, Arrea!, Ansils, Fuentelgato  Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming episodes and behind‑the‑scenes details. You can also explore our other podcasts: View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and Travel Tales, which celebrates first‑person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. To inquire about advertising, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story.

    In this episode, host and Afar executive editor Katherine LaGrave sits down with contributing writer Lisa Abend, a Copenhagen‑based journalist known for her deep reporting on food, culture, and the ways travel shapes communities. For her latest Afar feature, Lisa embarked on an ambitious road trip across northern Spain to visit five tiny towns where some of the country’s most exciting chefs are opening destination restaurants — and, in the process, helping revive regions long affected by depopulation.

    Lisa shares how she first discovered this movement, why these chefs are choosing villages of just a few hundred residents over major cities, and how their restaurants are sparking unexpected ripple effects — from new guesthouses to revived local food traditions. She also talks about the surprising absence of seafood in northern Spain’s inland kitchens, the emotional family histories behind many of these restaurants, and why chatting with gas‑station attendants might be the best road‑trip advice you’ll hear all year.

    On this episode you’ll learn:

    • Why some of Spain’s most ambitious chefs are opening restaurants in remote villages

    • How food tourism can help counter rural depopulation

    • What makes northern Spain’s regional cultures so distinct — from language to landscape to cuisine

    • Why hyperlocal cooking in these towns often excludes seafood, even when the coast is close

    • How family history shapes the stories these chefs tell on the plate

    Don’t miss these moments:

    [03:00] The Madrid chef conference that sparked Lisa’s reporting

    [05:00] How a single restaurant can create a ripple effect across a small town

    [07:00] The surprising reason none of these restaurants serve seafood

    [14:00] Lisa’s best advice for road‑tripping across northern Spain

    [16:00] The gas‑station cherry exchange that became an unforgettable travel moment

    [21:00] The “pregnant bun” dish Lisa would eat again in a heartbeat

    [22:00] How family stories — and even abandoned villages — shaped the chefs’ menus

    Resources

    Be sure to subscribe to the show and sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming episodes and behind‑the‑scenes details. You can also explore our other podcasts: View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and Travel Tales, which celebrates first‑person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. To inquire about advertising, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1853 no     Where to Go in 2026: The Five-Square-Mile Caribbean Island That's Nothing Like Its Neighbors It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales to explore this year. Places like Saba, a tiny Dutch Caribbean island with no beaches, no cruise ports, and the world's shortest commercial runway—just 400 meters long. What it does have: lush volcanic landscapes, 20 hand-built hiking trails, and a population of just over 2,000. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with ⁠Bianca Bujan⁠, a Vancouver-based travel journalist who shares the thrilling 12-minute flight from St. Martin, the island's gingerbread-house architecture, and why her teenager called it his favorite trip ever—despite spotty wifi and no beaches. Plan Your Saba Getaway Stay ⁠Juliana’s Hotel⁠ in Windward Side, a boutique property ⁠The Scenery Hotel, a new luxury boutique hotel opening in 2026 at the base of Mount Scenery Eat and Drink ⁠Tropics Cafe⁠ at Juliana's Hotel—popular with locals Try ⁠Saba Spice⁠, a local handmade spiced rum served on ice Time your visit for the ⁠Saba Rum and Lobster Festival⁠ in November See and Do Hike ⁠Mount Scenery⁠, technically the highest point in the Netherlands Try the ⁠Mas'Cohones Trail⁠ for spectacular views with a less strenuous climb Book a guided hike with ⁠Crocodile James⁠, a local legend, via the Saba Conservation Foundation Join a ⁠Sea and Learn Foundation⁠ workshop for hands-on experiences like wild clay pottery with locals Resources Follow Bianca on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ or read her work on her website Explore ⁠Afar's ⁠Where to Go in 2026 list⁠⁠ Follow us: ⁠⁠@afarmedia⁠⁠ Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E5: ⁠⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠⁠ E9: ⁠⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠⁠ E10: ⁠⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠⁠ E11: ⁠Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense⁠ E12: ⁠The Texas City Getting a Juneteenth Museum, FIFA World Cup Matches, and a Cowgirl Museum Expansion⁠ E13: ⁠The South Australian City That Punches Above Its Weight⁠ E14: East London's Olympic Park Has Transformed Into a Cultural Powerhouse E15: (this one!) The Five-Square-Mile Caribbean Island That's Nothing Like Its Neighbors Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. And explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:01:00 -0000 full Afar It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales to explore this year. Places like Saba, a tiny Dutch Caribbean island with no beaches, no cruise ports, and the world's shortest commercial runway—just 400 meters long. What it does have: lush volcanic landscapes, 20 hand-built hiking trails, and a population of just over 2,000. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with ⁠Bianca Bujan⁠, a Vancouver-based travel journalist who shares the thrilling 12-minute flight from St. Martin, the island's gingerbread-house architecture, and why her teenager called it his favorite trip ever—despite spotty wifi and no beaches. Plan Your Saba Getaway Stay ⁠Juliana’s Hotel⁠ in Windward Side, a boutique property ⁠The Scenery Hotel, a new luxury boutique hotel opening in 2026 at the base of Mount Scenery Eat and Drink ⁠Tropics Cafe⁠ at Juliana's Hotel—popular with locals Try ⁠Saba Spice⁠, a local handmade spiced rum served on ice Time your visit for the ⁠Saba Rum and Lobster Festival⁠ in November See and Do Hike ⁠Mount Scenery⁠, technically the highest point in the Netherlands Try the ⁠Mas'Cohones Trail⁠ for spectacular views with a less strenuous climb Book a guided hike with ⁠Crocodile James⁠, a local legend, via the Saba Conservation Foundation Join a ⁠Sea and Learn Foundation⁠ workshop for hands-on experiences like wild clay pottery with locals Resources Follow Bianca on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ or read her work on her website Explore ⁠Afar's ⁠Where to Go in 2026 list⁠⁠ Follow us: ⁠⁠@afarmedia⁠⁠ Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E5: ⁠⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠⁠ E9: ⁠⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠⁠ E10: ⁠⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠⁠ E11: ⁠Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense⁠ E12: ⁠The Texas City Getting a Juneteenth Museum, FIFA World Cup Matches, and a Cowgirl Museum Expansion⁠ E13: ⁠The South Australian City That Punches Above Its Weight⁠ E14: East London's Olympic Park Has Transformed Into a Cultural Powerhouse E15: (this one!) The Five-Square-Mile Caribbean Island That's Nothing Like Its Neighbors Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. And explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales to explore this year.

    Places like Saba, a tiny Dutch Caribbean island with no beaches, no cruise ports, and the world's shortest commercial runway—just 400 meters long. What it does have: lush volcanic landscapes, 20 hand-built hiking trails, and a population of just over 2,000.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with ⁠Bianca Bujan⁠, a Vancouver-based travel journalist who shares the thrilling 12-minute flight from St. Martin, the island's gingerbread-house architecture, and why her teenager called it his favorite trip ever—despite spotty wifi and no beaches.

    Plan Your Saba Getaway

    Stay

    • ⁠Juliana’s Hotel⁠ in Windward Side, a boutique property
    • ⁠The Scenery Hotel, a new luxury boutique hotel opening in 2026 at the base of Mount Scenery

    Eat and Drink

    • ⁠Tropics Cafe⁠ at Juliana's Hotel—popular with locals
    • Try ⁠Saba Spice⁠, a local handmade spiced rum served on ice

    See and Do


    Resources

    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E4: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E5: ⁠⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠⁠ E9: ⁠⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠⁠

    E10: ⁠⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠⁠

    E11: ⁠Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense⁠

    E12: ⁠The Texas City Getting a Juneteenth Museum, FIFA World Cup Matches, and a Cowgirl Museum Expansion⁠

    E13: ⁠The South Australian City That Punches Above Its Weight⁠

    E14: East London's Olympic Park Has Transformed Into a Cultural Powerhouse

    E15: (this one!) The Five-Square-Mile Caribbean Island That's Nothing Like Its Neighbors


    Stay Connected

    Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1301 no     Where to Go in 2026: East London's Olympic Park Has Transformed Into a Cultural Powerhouse It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠: 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales to explore this year. Like East London, where a billion-pound investment has transformed the 2012 Olympic Park into a creative powerhouse. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with ⁠Nick DeRenzo⁠, Afar's editorial director of newsletters (sign up here!) and a self-described Londoner at heart. Nick makes the case for hopping on the Elizabeth line and devoting time to the East Bank cultural quarter, where you can order a David Bowie costume at the V&A East Storehouse, dine on Chinese-Texas barbecue on a canal barge, and sweat it out in a community sauna. Plan Your East London Getaway (First, explore our ⁠London travel guide⁠.) Stay ⁠Moxy London Stratford⁠ for budget-friendly stays ⁠The Stratford⁠, an Autograph Collection hotel ⁠The Gantry⁠, a Curio Collection by Hilton property Eat and Drink ⁠Barge East⁠, a restaurant on a canal barge Chinese-Texas-style Uncle Hon’s BBQ ⁠Badu Café, a Black-owned coffee shop run by a youth athletics nonprofit Snacks and drinks along ⁠Hackney Bridge⁠, an incubator space in an old candy factory See and Do Explore ⁠Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park⁠, the heart of the East Bank cultural quarter Visit the ⁠V&A East Storehouse⁠ to see 250,000 objects—and use the "Order an Object" program for a personalized curator experience Catch a show at ⁠Sadler's Wells East⁠, dedicated to non-ballet dance Soak at ⁠Community Sauna Baths⁠, a not-for-profit with Scandinavian vibes Dance at ⁠Coven⁠, London's first permanent Black-owned queer venue since the 1970s Coming in 2026 ⁠V&A East⁠ museum dedicated to East London design opens April 2026 BBC Music Studios moving to the area in 2027 London College of Fashion campus now open Resources Follow Nick on ⁠Instagram⁠ Explore ⁠Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list⁠ Follow us: ⁠@afarmedia⁠ Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠ E5: ⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠ E9: ⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠ E10: ⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠ E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense E12: The Texas City Getting a Juneteenth Museum, FIFA World Cup Matches, and a Cowgirl Museum Expansion E13: The South Australian City That Punches Above Its Weight E14: East London's Olympic Park Has Transformed Into a Cultural Powerhouse (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. And explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 15 Jan 2026 19:37:00 -0000 full Afar It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠: 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales to explore this year. Like East London, where a billion-pound investment has transformed the 2012 Olympic Park into a creative powerhouse. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with ⁠Nick DeRenzo⁠, Afar's editorial director of newsletters (sign up here!) and a self-described Londoner at heart. Nick makes the case for hopping on the Elizabeth line and devoting time to the East Bank cultural quarter, where you can order a David Bowie costume at the V&A East Storehouse, dine on Chinese-Texas barbecue on a canal barge, and sweat it out in a community sauna. Plan Your East London Getaway (First, explore our ⁠London travel guide⁠.) Stay ⁠Moxy London Stratford⁠ for budget-friendly stays ⁠The Stratford⁠, an Autograph Collection hotel ⁠The Gantry⁠, a Curio Collection by Hilton property Eat and Drink ⁠Barge East⁠, a restaurant on a canal barge Chinese-Texas-style Uncle Hon’s BBQ ⁠Badu Café, a Black-owned coffee shop run by a youth athletics nonprofit Snacks and drinks along ⁠Hackney Bridge⁠, an incubator space in an old candy factory See and Do Explore ⁠Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park⁠, the heart of the East Bank cultural quarter Visit the ⁠V&A East Storehouse⁠ to see 250,000 objects—and use the "Order an Object" program for a personalized curator experience Catch a show at ⁠Sadler's Wells East⁠, dedicated to non-ballet dance Soak at ⁠Community Sauna Baths⁠, a not-for-profit with Scandinavian vibes Dance at ⁠Coven⁠, London's first permanent Black-owned queer venue since the 1970s Coming in 2026 ⁠V&A East⁠ museum dedicated to East London design opens April 2026 BBC Music Studios moving to the area in 2027 London College of Fashion campus now open Resources Follow Nick on ⁠Instagram⁠ Explore ⁠Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list⁠ Follow us: ⁠@afarmedia⁠ Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠ E5: ⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠ E9: ⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠ E10: ⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠ E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense E12: The Texas City Getting a Juneteenth Museum, FIFA World Cup Matches, and a Cowgirl Museum Expansion E13: The South Australian City That Punches Above Its Weight E14: East London's Olympic Park Has Transformed Into a Cultural Powerhouse (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. And explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠: 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales to explore this year.

    Like East London, where a billion-pound investment has transformed the 2012 Olympic Park into a creative powerhouse.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with ⁠Nick DeRenzo⁠, Afar's editorial director of newsletters (sign up here!) and a self-described Londoner at heart. Nick makes the case for hopping on the Elizabeth line and devoting time to the East Bank cultural quarter, where you can order a David Bowie costume at the V&A East Storehouse, dine on Chinese-Texas barbecue on a canal barge, and sweat it out in a community sauna.

    Plan Your East London Getaway (First, explore our ⁠London travel guide⁠.)

    Stay

    • ⁠Moxy London Stratford⁠ for budget-friendly stays
    • ⁠The Stratford⁠, an Autograph Collection hotel
    • ⁠The Gantry⁠, a Curio Collection by Hilton property

    Eat and Drink

    See and Do

    • Soak at ⁠Community Sauna Baths⁠, a not-for-profit with Scandinavian vibes
    • Dance at ⁠Coven⁠, London's first permanent Black-owned queer venue since the 1970s

    Coming in 2026

    • ⁠V&A East⁠ museum dedicated to East London design opens April 2026
    • BBC Music Studios moving to the area in 2027
    • London College of Fashion campus now open

    Resources


    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E4: ⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠

    E5: ⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠ E9: ⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠

    E10: ⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠

    E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense

    E12: The Texas City Getting a Juneteenth Museum, FIFA World Cup Matches, and a Cowgirl Museum Expansion

    E13: The South Australian City That Punches Above Its Weight

    E14: East London's Olympic Park Has Transformed Into a Cultural Powerhouse (this one!)


    Stay Connected

    Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1408 no     Where to Go in 2026: The South Australian City That Punches Above Its Weight It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠. And in 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. So our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. Places like Adelaide, Australia, a city within a park that punches above its weight with world-class wine, a booming food scene, and Australia's only UNESCO City of Music designation. In this episode, producer Nikki Galteland interviews host Aislyn Greene, who traveled to Adelaide last year. Aislyn shares why she waited 10 years to visit, what makes Adelaide different from Sydney and Melbourne, and how to engage with Aboriginal history—including a new $35 million cultural center. Plan Your Adelaide Getaway (First, explore our ⁠Australia travel guide⁠.) Stay Adelaide Marriott⁠ Eat and Drink ⁠Shobosho⁠, a Japanese izakaya with a custom yakitori grill ⁠Golden Boy⁠ for Thai food in an art-filled space Fino Vino⁠ for a daily-changing tasting menu Ondeen⁠ in the Adelaide Hills for fireside dining ⁠Salopian Inn⁠ in McLaren Vale Lino Ramble⁠ Wines—ask for the fortified arinto Explore Barossa Valley⁠ for world-famous Shiraz McLaren Vale⁠ and ⁠Adelaide Hills⁠ for boutique wineries Small Batch Wine Tours⁠ for off-the-beaten-path tastings The newly expanded ⁠Adelaide Central Market⁠ The Thebarton Theatre⁠, a 1928 theater reopened after an $8M renovation Kangaroo Island⁠ for wildlife The ⁠Eyre Peninsula⁠ for a coastal road trip The ⁠Flinders Ranges⁠ for Outback landscapes Engage With Aboriginal Culture ⁠Yipti Yartapuultiku⁠, the new $35.2M Aboriginal cultural center ⁠Bookabee Australia⁠ for the Adelaide Aboriginal Cultural Experience The Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery at the ⁠South Australian Museum⁠ Know Before You Go New: United flies direct from San Francisco to Adelaide Best time: Australian fall (March–May) for harvest and mild weather Or plan around ⁠Adelaide Fringe⁠ (Feb–March) or ⁠WOMADelaide⁠ (March) Very walkable; rent a car only for wine country and day trips Resources Follow Aislyn on ⁠Instagram⁠ Explore ⁠Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list⁠ Follow us: ⁠@afarmedia⁠ Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠ E5: ⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠ E9: ⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠ E10: ⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠ E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense E12: The Australian City That Punches Above Its Weight (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 15 Jan 2026 01:18:00 -0000 full Afar It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠. And in 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. So our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. Places like Adelaide, Australia, a city within a park that punches above its weight with world-class wine, a booming food scene, and Australia's only UNESCO City of Music designation. In this episode, producer Nikki Galteland interviews host Aislyn Greene, who traveled to Adelaide last year. Aislyn shares why she waited 10 years to visit, what makes Adelaide different from Sydney and Melbourne, and how to engage with Aboriginal history—including a new $35 million cultural center. Plan Your Adelaide Getaway (First, explore our ⁠Australia travel guide⁠.) Stay Adelaide Marriott⁠ Eat and Drink ⁠Shobosho⁠, a Japanese izakaya with a custom yakitori grill ⁠Golden Boy⁠ for Thai food in an art-filled space Fino Vino⁠ for a daily-changing tasting menu Ondeen⁠ in the Adelaide Hills for fireside dining ⁠Salopian Inn⁠ in McLaren Vale Lino Ramble⁠ Wines—ask for the fortified arinto Explore Barossa Valley⁠ for world-famous Shiraz McLaren Vale⁠ and ⁠Adelaide Hills⁠ for boutique wineries Small Batch Wine Tours⁠ for off-the-beaten-path tastings The newly expanded ⁠Adelaide Central Market⁠ The Thebarton Theatre⁠, a 1928 theater reopened after an $8M renovation Kangaroo Island⁠ for wildlife The ⁠Eyre Peninsula⁠ for a coastal road trip The ⁠Flinders Ranges⁠ for Outback landscapes Engage With Aboriginal Culture ⁠Yipti Yartapuultiku⁠, the new $35.2M Aboriginal cultural center ⁠Bookabee Australia⁠ for the Adelaide Aboriginal Cultural Experience The Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery at the ⁠South Australian Museum⁠ Know Before You Go New: United flies direct from San Francisco to Adelaide Best time: Australian fall (March–May) for harvest and mild weather Or plan around ⁠Adelaide Fringe⁠ (Feb–March) or ⁠WOMADelaide⁠ (March) Very walkable; rent a car only for wine country and day trips Resources Follow Aislyn on ⁠Instagram⁠ Explore ⁠Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list⁠ Follow us: ⁠@afarmedia⁠ Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠ E5: ⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠ E9: ⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠ E10: ⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠ E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense E12: The Australian City That Punches Above Its Weight (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠. And in 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. So our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    Places like Adelaide, Australia, a city within a park that punches above its weight with world-class wine, a booming food scene, and Australia's only UNESCO City of Music designation.

    In this episode, producer Nikki Galteland interviews host Aislyn Greene, who traveled to Adelaide last year. Aislyn shares why she waited 10 years to visit, what makes Adelaide different from Sydney and Melbourne, and how to engage with Aboriginal history—including a new $35 million cultural center.

    Plan Your Adelaide Getaway (First, explore our ⁠Australia travel guide⁠.)

    Stay

    Eat and Drink

    Explore

    Engage With Aboriginal Culture

    Know Before You Go

    Resources


    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E4: ⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠

    E5: ⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠ E9: ⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠

    E10: ⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠

    E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense

    E12: The Australian City That Punches Above Its Weight (this one!)


    Stay Connected

    Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1742 no     Where to Go in 2026: The Texas City Getting a Juneteenth Museum, FIFA World Cup Matches, and a Cowgirl Museum Expansion It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠—24 emerging regions and overlooked locales to explore this year. Like Fort Worth, Texas, a city that blends its cowboy heritage with world-class museums, a thriving food scene, and major developments on the horizon. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with ⁠Nora Walsh⁠, a travel writer and podcast host who fell hard for the "Unexpected City." She took line dancing lessons at the world's largest honky-tonk and had a chance sauna encounter that connected her with a community of female entrepreneurs. She digs into the city's incredible museum district, the revitalized Stockyards, and how to get yourself a proper cowboy hat shaped to your head. Related reading: Circle L Five: The Oldest All-Black Riding Club in Fort Worth Plan Your Fort Worth Getaway (First, explore our Texas travel guide.) Stay —Check into Hotel Drover in the Stockyards for a luxe take on Western heritage —Book The Crescent Hotel, a new modern hotel across from the Cultural District museums —Stay at Bowie House, an Auberge hotel and resort —Try The Nobleman, which just opened in Fort Worth —Watch for the Sandman Signature Fort Worth Hotel opening in 2026 Eat, Drink, and Dance —Take line dancing lessons and boot scoot at Billy Bob's Texas —Have a drink at Low Doubt —Catch live music at Tulips FTW, a local live music venue —Explore the restaurants and bars along Mule Alley in the Stockyards —Visit the annual Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival Explore....\ —The Fort Worth Cultural District, home to four world-class museums —The Kimbell Art Museum —American West art and photography at the Amon Carter Museum of American Art —Contemporary works at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth —The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame—expanding in 2026 —The National Juneteenth Museum breaking ground in 2026 i —The daily cattle drive in the Fort Worth Stockyards —The Cowtown Coliseum rodeo —The Cowboys of Color Rodeo in January 2026 Shop —Get a proper cowboy hat shaped to your head at The Best Hat Store —Shop City Boots for cowboy boots specifically designed for women —Pick up Fort Worth–branded gear at Morgan Mercantile in Southside Resources • Follow Nora's work on Instagram and her website and podcast • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠This Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠ E5: ⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠ E9: ⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠ E10: ⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠ E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense E12: The Texas City Getting a Juneteenth Museum, FIFA World Cup Matches, and a Cowgirl Museum Expansion (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 13 Jan 2026 19:55:00 -0000 full Afar It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠—24 emerging regions and overlooked locales to explore this year. Like Fort Worth, Texas, a city that blends its cowboy heritage with world-class museums, a thriving food scene, and major developments on the horizon. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with ⁠Nora Walsh⁠, a travel writer and podcast host who fell hard for the "Unexpected City." She took line dancing lessons at the world's largest honky-tonk and had a chance sauna encounter that connected her with a community of female entrepreneurs. She digs into the city's incredible museum district, the revitalized Stockyards, and how to get yourself a proper cowboy hat shaped to your head. Related reading: Circle L Five: The Oldest All-Black Riding Club in Fort Worth Plan Your Fort Worth Getaway (First, explore our Texas travel guide.) Stay —Check into Hotel Drover in the Stockyards for a luxe take on Western heritage —Book The Crescent Hotel, a new modern hotel across from the Cultural District museums —Stay at Bowie House, an Auberge hotel and resort —Try The Nobleman, which just opened in Fort Worth —Watch for the Sandman Signature Fort Worth Hotel opening in 2026 Eat, Drink, and Dance —Take line dancing lessons and boot scoot at Billy Bob's Texas —Have a drink at Low Doubt —Catch live music at Tulips FTW, a local live music venue —Explore the restaurants and bars along Mule Alley in the Stockyards —Visit the annual Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival Explore....\ —The Fort Worth Cultural District, home to four world-class museums —The Kimbell Art Museum —American West art and photography at the Amon Carter Museum of American Art —Contemporary works at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth —The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame—expanding in 2026 —The National Juneteenth Museum breaking ground in 2026 i —The daily cattle drive in the Fort Worth Stockyards —The Cowtown Coliseum rodeo —The Cowboys of Color Rodeo in January 2026 Shop —Get a proper cowboy hat shaped to your head at The Best Hat Store —Shop City Boots for cowboy boots specifically designed for women —Pick up Fort Worth–branded gear at Morgan Mercantile in Southside Resources • Follow Nora's work on Instagram and her website and podcast • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠This Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠ E5: ⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠ E9: ⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠ E10: ⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠ E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense E12: The Texas City Getting a Juneteenth Museum, FIFA World Cup Matches, and a Cowgirl Museum Expansion (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠—24 emerging regions and overlooked locales to explore this year.

    Like Fort Worth, Texas, a city that blends its cowboy heritage with world-class museums, a thriving food scene, and major developments on the horizon.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with ⁠Nora Walsh⁠, a travel writer and podcast host who fell hard for the "Unexpected City." She took line dancing lessons at the world's largest honky-tonk and had a chance sauna encounter that connected her with a community of female entrepreneurs. She digs into the city's incredible museum district, the revitalized Stockyards, and how to get yourself a proper cowboy hat shaped to your head.

    Related reading: Circle L Five: The Oldest All-Black Riding Club in Fort Worth


    Plan Your Fort Worth Getaway

    (First, explore our Texas travel guide.)

    Stay

    —Check into Hotel Drover in the Stockyards for a luxe take on Western heritage

    —Book The Crescent Hotel, a new modern hotel across from the Cultural District museums

    —Stay at Bowie House, an Auberge hotel and resort

    —Try The Nobleman, which just opened in Fort Worth

    —Watch for the Sandman Signature Fort Worth Hotel opening in 2026

    Eat, Drink, and Dance

    —Take line dancing lessons and boot scoot at Billy Bob's Texas

    —Have a drink at Low Doubt

    —Catch live music at Tulips FTW, a local live music venue

    —Explore the restaurants and bars along Mule Alley in the Stockyards

    —Visit the annual Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival

    Explore....\

    —The Fort Worth Cultural District, home to four world-class museums

    —The Kimbell Art Museum

    —American West art and photography at the Amon Carter Museum of American Art

    —Contemporary works at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

    —The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame—expanding in 2026

    —The National Juneteenth Museum breaking ground in 2026 i

    —The daily cattle drive in the Fort Worth Stockyards

    —The Cowtown Coliseum rodeo

    —The Cowboys of Color Rodeo in January 2026

    Shop

    —Get a proper cowboy hat shaped to your head at The Best Hat Store

    —Shop City Boots for cowboy boots specifically designed for women

    —Pick up Fort Worth–branded gear at Morgan Mercantile in Southside

    Resources

    • Follow Nora's work on Instagram and her website and podcast

    • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list

    • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia


    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠This Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E4: ⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠

    E5: ⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠ E9: ⁠The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better ⁠

    E10: ⁠The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing⁠

    E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense

    E12: The Texas City Getting a Juneteenth Museum, FIFA World Cup Matches, and a Cowgirl Museum Expansion (this one!)


    Stay Connected

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1222 no     Where to Go in 2026: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. So our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. Places like Penang, Malaysia, a small island with one of Southeast Asia's most fascinating and underrated food and cultural scenes. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Kathryn Romeyn, a Bali-based journalist who explored Penang for the first time last year. Kathryn shares what it's like to wander the UNESCO-listed streets of Georgetown. She digs into the food—from char kway teow to laksa to the elaborate Malaysian breakfast culture that UNESCO recently recognized—and shares what's new on the island, including boutique hotels and a weekend art market that's become a creative hub for locals and travelers alike. Plan Your Penang Getaway Stay —Book a room the Millen Penang, Autograph Collection, a hotel on Millionaire's Row —Watch for Soori Penang, a new 15-room boutique hotel opening in January 2025 Eat and Drink —Try char kway teow, the iconic Penang dish of flat rice noodles stir-fried over charcoal flames with prawns, cockles, sausage, and bean sprouts —Eat laksa, the spicy, aromatic noodle soup that's a Penang obsession —Visit Mum's, a beloved Peranakan restaurant serving home-style cooking —Experience Malaysian breakfast culture (a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage) See and Do —Visit Hin Bus Depot on weekends for the art market —Visit Kek Lok Si Temple, home to the Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas —Ride the Penang Hill funicular, the oldest in Southeast Asia (opened 1923), for panoramic views —Join the local hiking community via the Facebook group "Hiking Trails in Penang" (nearly 50,000 members)—they've created trails in the shapes of animals like elephants, unicorns, and even Pokémon characters Resources • Follow Kathryn's work on Instagram • Visit Kathryn's website • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E5: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E9: The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better E10: The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 12 Jan 2026 08:01:00 -0000 full Afar It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. So our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. Places like Penang, Malaysia, a small island with one of Southeast Asia's most fascinating and underrated food and cultural scenes. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Kathryn Romeyn, a Bali-based journalist who explored Penang for the first time last year. Kathryn shares what it's like to wander the UNESCO-listed streets of Georgetown. She digs into the food—from char kway teow to laksa to the elaborate Malaysian breakfast culture that UNESCO recently recognized—and shares what's new on the island, including boutique hotels and a weekend art market that's become a creative hub for locals and travelers alike. Plan Your Penang Getaway Stay —Book a room the Millen Penang, Autograph Collection, a hotel on Millionaire's Row —Watch for Soori Penang, a new 15-room boutique hotel opening in January 2025 Eat and Drink —Try char kway teow, the iconic Penang dish of flat rice noodles stir-fried over charcoal flames with prawns, cockles, sausage, and bean sprouts —Eat laksa, the spicy, aromatic noodle soup that's a Penang obsession —Visit Mum's, a beloved Peranakan restaurant serving home-style cooking —Experience Malaysian breakfast culture (a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage) See and Do —Visit Hin Bus Depot on weekends for the art market —Visit Kek Lok Si Temple, home to the Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas —Ride the Penang Hill funicular, the oldest in Southeast Asia (opened 1923), for panoramic views —Join the local hiking community via the Facebook group "Hiking Trails in Penang" (nearly 50,000 members)—they've created trails in the shapes of animals like elephants, unicorns, and even Pokémon characters Resources • Follow Kathryn's work on Instagram • Visit Kathryn's website • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E5: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E9: The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better E10: The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. So our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    Places like Penang, Malaysia, a small island with one of Southeast Asia's most fascinating and underrated food and cultural scenes.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Kathryn Romeyn, a Bali-based journalist who explored Penang for the first time last year. Kathryn shares what it's like to wander the UNESCO-listed streets of Georgetown. She digs into the food—from char kway teow to laksa to the elaborate Malaysian breakfast culture that UNESCO recently recognized—and shares what's new on the island, including boutique hotels and a weekend art market that's become a creative hub for locals and travelers alike.

    Plan Your Penang Getaway

    Stay

    —Book a room the Millen Penang, Autograph Collection, a hotel on Millionaire's Row

    —Watch for Soori Penang, a new 15-room boutique hotel opening in January 2025

    Eat and Drink

    —Try char kway teow, the iconic Penang dish of flat rice noodles stir-fried over charcoal flames with prawns, cockles, sausage, and bean sprouts

    —Eat laksa, the spicy, aromatic noodle soup that's a Penang obsession

    —Visit Mum's, a beloved Peranakan restaurant serving home-style cooking

    —Experience Malaysian breakfast culture (a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage)

    See and Do

    —Visit Hin Bus Depot on weekends for the art market

    —Visit Kek Lok Si Temple, home to the Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas

    —Ride the Penang Hill funicular, the oldest in Southeast Asia (opened 1923), for panoramic views

    —Join the local hiking community via the Facebook group "Hiking Trails in Penang" (nearly 50,000 members)—they've created trails in the shapes of animals like elephants, unicorns, and even Pokémon characters


    Resources

    • Follow Kathryn's work on Instagram

    • Visit Kathryn's website

    • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list

    • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia

    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E4: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E5: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E6: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠⁠⁠⁠ E7: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E8: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E9: The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better

    E10: The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing

    E11: Malaysia's Most Overlooked Island Is a Feast for Every Sense (this one!)


    Stay Connected

    Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1949 no     Where to Go in 2026: The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing It's a fresh new year and this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. Places like Da Nang, Vietnam's fifth-largest city and a coastal destination long beloved by Vietnamese travelers that's now drawing international attention with new luxury hotels, airline routes, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Liz Provencher, a food, drink, and travel writer who spent several weeks exploring Vietnam in 2025. Liz shares why Da Nang offers the best of both worlds: a bustling city with motor taxis and night markets, plus 40 miles of coastline, one of the last coastal rainforests in Vietnam, and regional dishes you literally cannot find anywhere else. Plan Your Da Nang Getaway (First, explore our Vietnam travel guide.) Stay —Book a room at the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, located within the protected Son Tra Peninsula nature reserve, designed by Bill Bensley, the architect behind the White Lotus Thailand hotel —Watch for the Mandarin Oriental opening in early 2026 —The Nobu hotel is also coming in 2026—once complete, it will be the city's tallest building, located on the beachfront Eat and Drink —Start your morning with mì quảng, a turmeric noodle soup topped with shrimp (or chicken, pork, or frog), herbs, and a crispy rice cracker —Day trip to Hoi An for cao lầu, a noodle soup that can only be made there —Explore the night markets for street food and the bustling energy Vietnam is known for See and Do —Spend time on Da Nang's 40 miles of stunning coastline along the South China Sea —Hike the Son Tra Peninsula, a protected nature reserve in the northern part of the city that's home to one of the last coastal rainforests in Vietnam —Take a day trip to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 30 minutes away —Travel the coast in style on the Vietage Train by Anantara, a luxury train service connecting Da Nang to other cities along the central Vietnam coast Resources • Follow Liz's work on Instagram • Visit Liz's website • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠ E5: ⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠ E6: ⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠ E7: ⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠ E8: ⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠ E9: The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better E10: The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 09 Jan 2026 08:01:00 -0000 full Afar It's a fresh new year and this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. Places like Da Nang, Vietnam's fifth-largest city and a coastal destination long beloved by Vietnamese travelers that's now drawing international attention with new luxury hotels, airline routes, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Liz Provencher, a food, drink, and travel writer who spent several weeks exploring Vietnam in 2025. Liz shares why Da Nang offers the best of both worlds: a bustling city with motor taxis and night markets, plus 40 miles of coastline, one of the last coastal rainforests in Vietnam, and regional dishes you literally cannot find anywhere else. Plan Your Da Nang Getaway (First, explore our Vietnam travel guide.) Stay —Book a room at the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, located within the protected Son Tra Peninsula nature reserve, designed by Bill Bensley, the architect behind the White Lotus Thailand hotel —Watch for the Mandarin Oriental opening in early 2026 —The Nobu hotel is also coming in 2026—once complete, it will be the city's tallest building, located on the beachfront Eat and Drink —Start your morning with mì quảng, a turmeric noodle soup topped with shrimp (or chicken, pork, or frog), herbs, and a crispy rice cracker —Day trip to Hoi An for cao lầu, a noodle soup that can only be made there —Explore the night markets for street food and the bustling energy Vietnam is known for See and Do —Spend time on Da Nang's 40 miles of stunning coastline along the South China Sea —Hike the Son Tra Peninsula, a protected nature reserve in the northern part of the city that's home to one of the last coastal rainforests in Vietnam —Take a day trip to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 30 minutes away —Travel the coast in style on the Vietage Train by Anantara, a luxury train service connecting Da Nang to other cities along the central Vietnam coast Resources • Follow Liz's work on Instagram • Visit Liz's website • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠ E5: ⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠ E6: ⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠ E7: ⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠ E8: ⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠ E9: The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better E10: The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's a fresh new year and this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    Places like Da Nang, Vietnam's fifth-largest city and a coastal destination long beloved by Vietnamese travelers that's now drawing international attention with new luxury hotels, airline routes, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Liz Provencher, a food, drink, and travel writer who spent several weeks exploring Vietnam in 2025. Liz shares why Da Nang offers the best of both worlds: a bustling city with motor taxis and night markets, plus 40 miles of coastline, one of the last coastal rainforests in Vietnam, and regional dishes you literally cannot find anywhere else.

    Plan Your Da Nang Getaway

    (First, explore our Vietnam travel guide.)

    Stay

    —Book a room at the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, located within the protected Son Tra Peninsula nature reserve, designed by Bill Bensley, the architect behind the White Lotus Thailand hotel

    —Watch for the Mandarin Oriental opening in early 2026

    —The Nobu hotel is also coming in 2026—once complete, it will be the city's tallest building, located on the beachfront

    Eat and Drink

    —Start your morning with mì quảng, a turmeric noodle soup topped with shrimp (or chicken, pork, or frog), herbs, and a crispy rice cracker

    —Day trip to Hoi An for cao lầu, a noodle soup that can only be made there

    —Explore the night markets for street food and the bustling energy Vietnam is known for

    See and Do

    —Spend time on Da Nang's 40 miles of stunning coastline along the South China Sea

    —Hike the Son Tra Peninsula, a protected nature reserve in the northern part of the city that's home to one of the last coastal rainforests in Vietnam

    —Take a day trip to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 30 minutes away

    —Travel the coast in style on the Vietage Train by Anantara, a luxury train service connecting Da Nang to other cities along the central Vietnam coast


    Resources

    • Follow Liz's work on Instagram

    • Visit Liz's website

    • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list

    • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia


    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E4: ⁠⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠⁠

    E5: ⁠Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention ⁠ E6: ⁠Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting⁠ E7: ⁠The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret ⁠ E8: ⁠Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari ⁠ E9: The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better

    E10: The White Lotus Architect Designed a Hotel in This Vietnamese City—Now the World Is Noticing (this one!)


    Stay Connected

    Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1349 no     Where to Go in 2026: The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠. And this year's list is a little different. Because in 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. Like the Columbia River Gorge, a Pacific Northwest icon where waterfalls tumble from towering cliffs, the landscape shifts from rainforest to arid grasslands in under two hours, and a historic highway is being transformed into a car-free trail. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Zoe Baillargeon, a Portland-based travel writer who has spent years exploring this 80-mile stretch of cliffs, rivers, and vineyards. Zoe shares what's new in the Gorge—from a glamping resort with stargazing tents and views of Mount Hood to a newly reopened hot springs spa with thousand-year-old Indigenous roots, plus a James Beard–recognized wine farm and a historic highway being transformed into a car-free trail. Plan Your Columbia River Gorge Getaway (First, explore our Oregon travel guide.) Stay —Book a stargazing tent at Under Canvas Columbia River Gorge, a new glamping resort on 120 acres near White Salmon —Soak in natural mineral hot springs at the newly refurbished Bonneville Hot Springs Resort & Spa. Eat and Drink —Get in line early at Grasslands Barbecue, a Hood River food cart that sells out daily —Book a farm-to-table tasting experience at Hiyu Wine Farm, a biodynamic winery and James Beard semifinalist for outstanding wine program —Drive the Fruit Loop trail through the valley behind Hood River for wine tastings, u-pick fruit, and farm stands—stop at the Gorge White House for tastings and views See and Do —Drive the historic Columbia River Highway, the nation's first planned scenic byway, for waterfalls, forest views, and towering gorge walls —Hike or bike the newly opened Mitchell Point Tunnel section of the historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. —Watch (or attempt) windsurfing and kiteboarding in Hood River, one of the world's top destinations for wind sports —Visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles for regional history, or the Maryhill Museum of Art for an eclectic collection in a stunning setting Resources • Follow Zoe's work on Instagram • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠ E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting E7: The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret E8: Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari E9: The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 08 Jan 2026 08:01:00 -0000 full Afar It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠. And this year's list is a little different. Because in 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. Like the Columbia River Gorge, a Pacific Northwest icon where waterfalls tumble from towering cliffs, the landscape shifts from rainforest to arid grasslands in under two hours, and a historic highway is being transformed into a car-free trail. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Zoe Baillargeon, a Portland-based travel writer who has spent years exploring this 80-mile stretch of cliffs, rivers, and vineyards. Zoe shares what's new in the Gorge—from a glamping resort with stargazing tents and views of Mount Hood to a newly reopened hot springs spa with thousand-year-old Indigenous roots, plus a James Beard–recognized wine farm and a historic highway being transformed into a car-free trail. Plan Your Columbia River Gorge Getaway (First, explore our Oregon travel guide.) Stay —Book a stargazing tent at Under Canvas Columbia River Gorge, a new glamping resort on 120 acres near White Salmon —Soak in natural mineral hot springs at the newly refurbished Bonneville Hot Springs Resort & Spa. Eat and Drink —Get in line early at Grasslands Barbecue, a Hood River food cart that sells out daily —Book a farm-to-table tasting experience at Hiyu Wine Farm, a biodynamic winery and James Beard semifinalist for outstanding wine program —Drive the Fruit Loop trail through the valley behind Hood River for wine tastings, u-pick fruit, and farm stands—stop at the Gorge White House for tastings and views See and Do —Drive the historic Columbia River Highway, the nation's first planned scenic byway, for waterfalls, forest views, and towering gorge walls —Hike or bike the newly opened Mitchell Point Tunnel section of the historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. —Watch (or attempt) windsurfing and kiteboarding in Hood River, one of the world's top destinations for wind sports —Visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles for regional history, or the Maryhill Museum of Art for an eclectic collection in a stunning setting Resources • Follow Zoe's work on Instagram • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠ E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting E7: The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret E8: Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari E9: The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's a shiny new year, so this month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's ⁠⁠Where to Go list⁠⁠. And this year's list is a little different. Because in 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    Like the Columbia River Gorge, a Pacific Northwest icon where waterfalls tumble from towering cliffs, the landscape shifts from rainforest to arid grasslands in under two hours, and a historic highway is being transformed into a car-free trail.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Zoe Baillargeon, a Portland-based travel writer who has spent years exploring this 80-mile stretch of cliffs, rivers, and vineyards. Zoe shares what's new in the Gorge—from a glamping resort with stargazing tents and views of Mount Hood to a newly reopened hot springs spa with thousand-year-old Indigenous roots, plus a James Beard–recognized wine farm and a historic highway being transformed into a car-free trail.


    Plan Your Columbia River Gorge Getaway

    (First, explore our Oregon travel guide.)

    Stay

    —Book a stargazing tent at Under Canvas Columbia River Gorge, a new glamping resort on 120 acres near White Salmon

    —Soak in natural mineral hot springs at the newly refurbished Bonneville Hot Springs Resort & Spa.

    Eat and Drink

    —Get in line early at Grasslands Barbecue, a Hood River food cart that sells out daily

    —Book a farm-to-table tasting experience at Hiyu Wine Farm, a biodynamic winery and James Beard semifinalist for outstanding wine program

    —Drive the Fruit Loop trail through the valley behind Hood River for wine tastings, u-pick fruit, and farm stands—stop at the Gorge White House for tastings and views

    See and Do

    —Drive the historic Columbia River Highway, the nation's first planned scenic byway, for waterfalls, forest views, and towering gorge walls

    —Hike or bike the newly opened Mitchell Point Tunnel section of the historic Columbia River Highway State Trail.

    —Watch (or attempt) windsurfing and kiteboarding in Hood River, one of the world's top destinations for wind sports

    —Visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles for regional history, or the Maryhill Museum of Art for an eclectic collection in a stunning setting


    Resources

    • Follow Zoe's work on Instagram

    • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list

    • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia


    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠

    E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠

    E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠

    E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention
    E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting
    E7: The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret
    E8: Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari
    E9: The Pacific Northwest's 80-Mile Playground Just Got Even Better (this one!)


    Stay Connected

    Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1545 no     Where to Go in 2026: Trade the Serengeti Traffic for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released ⁠Where to Go list⁠—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Laikipia, that means looking beyond the overcrowded Maasai Mara to discover a Kenyan plateau where half the country's black rhinos roam, where you might be the only vehicle at a sighting, and where conservation and community go hand in hand. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Alexandra Owens, a travel writer who specializes in conservation tourism and sub-Saharan Africa. Alexandra shares why this network of community-run conservancies offers a model for what safari can be: high value, low impact, and genuinely beneficial to local communities. Plan Your Laikipia Safari (Listen to the View From Afar episode about the Great Migration controversy.) Stay —Book a stay at andBeyond Suyian, a new lodge that opened in July 2024 on Suyian Conservancy —Try Segera Retreat, a conservancy with a collaborative relationship with local communities and a new rhino sanctuary —Stay at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, one of the original conservancies in the region, known for its rhino protection program and house-made goat cheese See and Do —Visit Ol Pejeta Conservancy to see the last two northern white rhinos on Earth—a mother and daughter—and learn about groundbreaking efforts to bring the species back from functional extinction —Consider hiring a safari advisor, especially if visiting multiple conservancies—they can help with charter flights and insider experiences. Alexandra recommends Tamsyn Fricker at Travel Artistry Africa and Chris Liebenberg at Piper & Heath Resources • Follow Alexandra's work on Instagram. • Visit Alexandra's website • Learn more about Space for Giants, the elephant conservation NGO working in Laikipia • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠ E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting E7: The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret E8: Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 17 Dec 2025 20:02:00 -0000 full Afar This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released ⁠Where to Go list⁠—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Laikipia, that means looking beyond the overcrowded Maasai Mara to discover a Kenyan plateau where half the country's black rhinos roam, where you might be the only vehicle at a sighting, and where conservation and community go hand in hand. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Alexandra Owens, a travel writer who specializes in conservation tourism and sub-Saharan Africa. Alexandra shares why this network of community-run conservancies offers a model for what safari can be: high value, low impact, and genuinely beneficial to local communities. Plan Your Laikipia Safari (Listen to the View From Afar episode about the Great Migration controversy.) Stay —Book a stay at andBeyond Suyian, a new lodge that opened in July 2024 on Suyian Conservancy —Try Segera Retreat, a conservancy with a collaborative relationship with local communities and a new rhino sanctuary —Stay at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, one of the original conservancies in the region, known for its rhino protection program and house-made goat cheese See and Do —Visit Ol Pejeta Conservancy to see the last two northern white rhinos on Earth—a mother and daughter—and learn about groundbreaking efforts to bring the species back from functional extinction —Consider hiring a safari advisor, especially if visiting multiple conservancies—they can help with charter flights and insider experiences. Alexandra recommends Tamsyn Fricker at Travel Artistry Africa and Chris Liebenberg at Piper & Heath Resources • Follow Alexandra's work on Instagram. • Visit Alexandra's website • Learn more about Space for Giants, the elephant conservation NGO working in Laikipia • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠ E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting E7: The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret E8: Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released ⁠Where to Go list⁠—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    For Laikipia, that means looking beyond the overcrowded Maasai Mara to discover a Kenyan plateau where half the country's black rhinos roam, where you might be the only vehicle at a sighting, and where conservation and community go hand in hand.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Alexandra Owens, a travel writer who specializes in conservation tourism and sub-Saharan Africa. Alexandra shares why this network of community-run conservancies offers a model for what safari can be: high value, low impact, and genuinely beneficial to local communities.

    Plan Your Laikipia Safari

    (Listen to the View From Afar episode about the Great Migration controversy.)

    Stay

    —Book a stay at andBeyond Suyian, a new lodge that opened in July 2024 on Suyian Conservancy

    —Try Segera Retreat, a conservancy with a collaborative relationship with local communities and a new rhino sanctuary

    —Stay at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, one of the original conservancies in the region, known for its rhino protection program and house-made goat cheese

    See and Do

    —Visit Ol Pejeta Conservancy to see the last two northern white rhinos on Earth—a mother and daughter—and learn about groundbreaking efforts to bring the species back from functional extinction

    —Consider hiring a safari advisor, especially if visiting multiple conservancies—they can help with charter flights and insider experiences. Alexandra recommends Tamsyn Fricker at Travel Artistry Africa and Chris Liebenberg at Piper & Heath

    Resources

    • Follow Alexandra's work on Instagram.

    • Visit Alexandra's website

    • Learn more about Space for Giants, the elephant conservation NGO working in Laikipia

    • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list

    • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia


    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠

    E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠

    E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠

    E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention
    E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting
    E7: The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret

    E8: Skip the Serengeti Traffic Jams for This Under-the-Radar Kenyan Safari (this one!)


    Stay Connected

    Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1817 no     Where to Go in 2026: The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released ⁠Where to Go list⁠—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Menton, that means looking beyond Cannes and Nice to discover a quieter corner of the French Riviera—one with candy-colored buildings, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, and lemons so sweet you can eat them like apples. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Jenn Rice, a food and travel writer who fell hard for Menton after a birthday dinner at Mirazur. Jenn shares why this town of 30,000—perched where France meets Italy—deserves a spot on your list. From a subtropical microclimate that produces IGP-protected citrus to affordable hotels with sea views and a culinary scene shaped by one very busy chef, Menton offers all the glamour of the Riviera without the flash. Plan Your Menton Getaway (First, explore our France travel guide.) Stay —Book a room at Hotel Napoléon, right across from the sea and walking distance to old town—rooms with terrace patios and views of the candy-colored buildings start around $200/night even in summer —Check out the newly renovated Villa Genesis, an older villa refurbished by Hotel Napoléon —Try Hotel Gabriel, a newly renovated boutique option with a more modern, hip vibe Eat and Drink —Splurge on dinner at Le Mirazur, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant from chef Mauro Colagreco—it starts with a tour of his garden overlooking the sea and mountains, and yes, you'll eat a lemon like an apple —Pick up sandwiches, lemon cake, and the famous lemon panettone (in season) at Mitron Bakery in old town, which uses the same artisanal ancient grains as Mirazur —Try the lemon pizza at La Pecoranegra, Colagreco's pizzeria focused on quality ingredients —For something unexpected, visit Colagreco's Argentinian steakhouse, Casa Fuego, down the street See and Do —Wander the old town, where candy-colored buildings tumble toward the sea in a scene reminiscent of the Italian Cinque Terre —Stroll the brand-new promenade along the waterfront —Hop on the train to Nice, Cannes, or other Riviera destinations—Menton makes a great, affordable home base Resources • Follow Jenn's work on Instagram • Visit Jenn's website • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠ E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting E7: The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 16 Dec 2025 22:02:00 -0000 full Afar This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released ⁠Where to Go list⁠—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Menton, that means looking beyond Cannes and Nice to discover a quieter corner of the French Riviera—one with candy-colored buildings, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, and lemons so sweet you can eat them like apples. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Jenn Rice, a food and travel writer who fell hard for Menton after a birthday dinner at Mirazur. Jenn shares why this town of 30,000—perched where France meets Italy—deserves a spot on your list. From a subtropical microclimate that produces IGP-protected citrus to affordable hotels with sea views and a culinary scene shaped by one very busy chef, Menton offers all the glamour of the Riviera without the flash. Plan Your Menton Getaway (First, explore our France travel guide.) Stay —Book a room at Hotel Napoléon, right across from the sea and walking distance to old town—rooms with terrace patios and views of the candy-colored buildings start around $200/night even in summer —Check out the newly renovated Villa Genesis, an older villa refurbished by Hotel Napoléon —Try Hotel Gabriel, a newly renovated boutique option with a more modern, hip vibe Eat and Drink —Splurge on dinner at Le Mirazur, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant from chef Mauro Colagreco—it starts with a tour of his garden overlooking the sea and mountains, and yes, you'll eat a lemon like an apple —Pick up sandwiches, lemon cake, and the famous lemon panettone (in season) at Mitron Bakery in old town, which uses the same artisanal ancient grains as Mirazur —Try the lemon pizza at La Pecoranegra, Colagreco's pizzeria focused on quality ingredients —For something unexpected, visit Colagreco's Argentinian steakhouse, Casa Fuego, down the street See and Do —Wander the old town, where candy-colored buildings tumble toward the sea in a scene reminiscent of the Italian Cinque Terre —Stroll the brand-new promenade along the waterfront —Hop on the train to Nice, Cannes, or other Riviera destinations—Menton makes a great, affordable home base Resources • Follow Jenn's work on Instagram • Visit Jenn's website • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠ E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting E7: The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released ⁠Where to Go list⁠—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    For Menton, that means looking beyond Cannes and Nice to discover a quieter corner of the French Riviera—one with candy-colored buildings, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, and lemons so sweet you can eat them like apples.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Jenn Rice, a food and travel writer who fell hard for Menton after a birthday dinner at Mirazur. Jenn shares why this town of 30,000—perched where France meets Italy—deserves a spot on your list. From a subtropical microclimate that produces IGP-protected citrus to affordable hotels with sea views and a culinary scene shaped by one very busy chef, Menton offers all the glamour of the Riviera without the flash.

    Plan Your Menton Getaway

    (First, explore our France travel guide.)

    Stay

    —Book a room at Hotel Napoléon, right across from the sea and walking distance to old town—rooms with terrace patios and views of the candy-colored buildings start around $200/night even in summer

    —Check out the newly renovated Villa Genesis, an older villa refurbished by Hotel Napoléon

    —Try Hotel Gabriel, a newly renovated boutique option with a more modern, hip vibe

    Eat and Drink

    —Splurge on dinner at Le Mirazur, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant from chef Mauro Colagreco—it starts with a tour of his garden overlooking the sea and mountains, and yes, you'll eat a lemon like an apple

    —Pick up sandwiches, lemon cake, and the famous lemon panettone (in season) at Mitron Bakery in old town, which uses the same artisanal ancient grains as Mirazur

    —Try the lemon pizza at La Pecoranegra, Colagreco's pizzeria focused on quality ingredients

    —For something unexpected, visit Colagreco's Argentinian steakhouse, Casa Fuego, down the street

    See and Do

    —Wander the old town, where candy-colored buildings tumble toward the sea in a scene reminiscent of the Italian Cinque Terre

    —Stroll the brand-new promenade along the waterfront

    —Hop on the train to Nice, Cannes, or other Riviera destinations—Menton makes a great, affordable home base


    Resources

    • Follow Jenn's work on Instagram

    • Visit Jenn's website

    • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list

    • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia


    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠

    E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠

    E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠

    E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting

    E7: The French Riviera's Last Stop Before Italy—and Its Best-Kept Secret (this one!)


    Stay Connected

    Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1234 no     Where to Go in 2026: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Birmingham, that means discovering what Alabama's second-largest city really offers—especially its quietly stellar food scene that's been racking up James Beard nominations. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Jenny Adams, a travel writer and Birmingham native now based in New Orleans. Jenny shares why this "big fish in a small pond" city deserves a second look—from its fourth-largest concentration of barbecue restaurants in America to Alabama white sauce, a downtown transformed by Railroad Park, and vintage shopping that rivals anywhere in the South. She also makes a case for an Alabama road trip, from Muscle Shoals to the Gulf Coast beaches. Plan Your Birmingham Getaway (First, explore our Alabama travel guide.) Stay —Book a room at The Elyton, a historic downtown hotel —Try The Painted Lady, a new boutique hotel in the city center Eat and Drink —Start your morning at Continental Bakery in English Village for old-world European pastries —Get a sandwich at The Garage Café, a collection of 1920s car garages with a courtyard bar where everything—including the furniture—is for sale —Try Birmingham barbecue at SAW's BBQ or Jim 'N Nick's, and don't skip the Alabama white sauce—a tangy, mayo-based condiment invented in Decatur —For Gulf seafood and oysters, head to Bayonet, a new raw bar —Sip fancy cocktails at Adios, a Mexican bar and James Beard semifinalist —For a bucket-list dive bar experience, go to The Nick for cheap domestics and live grunge bands See and Do —Walk or bike Railroad Park, a linear park built on former blighted railroad tracks —Tour Sloss Furnaces, the historic ironworks that defined Birmingham's industrial past —Visit the 16th Street Baptist Church and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to engage with the city's essential history —Catch a show at one of three restored historic theaters: The Alabama, The Carver, or The Lyric Shop —Browse Pepper Place, a collection of old brick warehouses with permanent shops and a Saturday farmers market —Find vintage treasures at Devore, with pieces spanning the Victorian era to the 1970s —Pick up artisan Alabama goods at Stone Hollow Farms (pickles, ginger syrups, cast iron cookware) and Design Supply (Southern artists and large-scale art) —Visit Shoppe, a garden store with a charming general store next door where you can eat a BLT while browsing tablecloths and vintage spoons Resources • Follow Jenny's work on Instagram • Visit Jenny's website • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠ E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 16 Dec 2025 00:34:00 -0000 full Afar This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Birmingham, that means discovering what Alabama's second-largest city really offers—especially its quietly stellar food scene that's been racking up James Beard nominations. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Jenny Adams, a travel writer and Birmingham native now based in New Orleans. Jenny shares why this "big fish in a small pond" city deserves a second look—from its fourth-largest concentration of barbecue restaurants in America to Alabama white sauce, a downtown transformed by Railroad Park, and vintage shopping that rivals anywhere in the South. She also makes a case for an Alabama road trip, from Muscle Shoals to the Gulf Coast beaches. Plan Your Birmingham Getaway (First, explore our Alabama travel guide.) Stay —Book a room at The Elyton, a historic downtown hotel —Try The Painted Lady, a new boutique hotel in the city center Eat and Drink —Start your morning at Continental Bakery in English Village for old-world European pastries —Get a sandwich at The Garage Café, a collection of 1920s car garages with a courtyard bar where everything—including the furniture—is for sale —Try Birmingham barbecue at SAW's BBQ or Jim 'N Nick's, and don't skip the Alabama white sauce—a tangy, mayo-based condiment invented in Decatur —For Gulf seafood and oysters, head to Bayonet, a new raw bar —Sip fancy cocktails at Adios, a Mexican bar and James Beard semifinalist —For a bucket-list dive bar experience, go to The Nick for cheap domestics and live grunge bands See and Do —Walk or bike Railroad Park, a linear park built on former blighted railroad tracks —Tour Sloss Furnaces, the historic ironworks that defined Birmingham's industrial past —Visit the 16th Street Baptist Church and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to engage with the city's essential history —Catch a show at one of three restored historic theaters: The Alabama, The Carver, or The Lyric Shop —Browse Pepper Place, a collection of old brick warehouses with permanent shops and a Saturday farmers market —Find vintage treasures at Devore, with pieces spanning the Victorian era to the 1970s —Pick up artisan Alabama goods at Stone Hollow Farms (pickles, ginger syrups, cast iron cookware) and Design Supply (Southern artists and large-scale art) —Visit Shoppe, a garden store with a charming general store next door where you can eat a BLT while browsing tablecloths and vintage spoons Resources • Follow Jenny's work on Instagram • Visit Jenny's website • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠ E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠ E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠⁠View From Afar⁠⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    For Birmingham, that means discovering what Alabama's second-largest city really offers—especially its quietly stellar food scene that's been racking up James Beard nominations.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Jenny Adams, a travel writer and Birmingham native now based in New Orleans. Jenny shares why this "big fish in a small pond" city deserves a second look—from its fourth-largest concentration of barbecue restaurants in America to Alabama white sauce, a downtown transformed by Railroad Park, and vintage shopping that rivals anywhere in the South. She also makes a case for an Alabama road trip, from Muscle Shoals to the Gulf Coast beaches.

    Plan Your Birmingham Getaway

    (First, explore our Alabama travel guide.)

    Stay

    —Book a room at The Elyton, a historic downtown hotel

    —Try The Painted Lady, a new boutique hotel in the city center

    Eat and Drink

    —Start your morning at Continental Bakery in English Village for old-world European pastries

    —Get a sandwich at The Garage Café, a collection of 1920s car garages with a courtyard bar where everything—including the furniture—is for sale

    —Try Birmingham barbecue at SAW's BBQ or Jim 'N Nick's, and don't skip the Alabama white sauce—a tangy, mayo-based condiment invented in Decatur

    —For Gulf seafood and oysters, head to Bayonet, a new raw bar

    —Sip fancy cocktails at Adios, a Mexican bar and James Beard semifinalist

    —For a bucket-list dive bar experience, go to The Nick for cheap domestics and live grunge bands

    See and Do

    —Walk or bike Railroad Park, a linear park built on former blighted railroad tracks

    —Tour Sloss Furnaces, the historic ironworks that defined Birmingham's industrial past

    —Visit the 16th Street Baptist Church and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to engage with the city's essential history

    —Catch a show at one of three restored historic theaters: The Alabama, The Carver, or The Lyric

    Shop

    —Browse Pepper Place, a collection of old brick warehouses with permanent shops and a Saturday farmers market

    —Find vintage treasures at Devore, with pieces spanning the Victorian era to the 1970s

    —Pick up artisan Alabama goods at Stone Hollow Farms (pickles, ginger syrups, cast iron cookware) and Design Supply (Southern artists and large-scale art)

    —Visit Shoppe, a garden store with a charming general store next door where you can eat a BLT while browsing tablecloths and vintage spoons


    Resources

    • Follow Jenny's work on Instagram

    • Visit Jenny's website

    • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list

    • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia

    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: T⁠⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠⁠

    E3: ⁠⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠⁠

    E4: ⁠Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate ⁠

    E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention

    E6: Three Hours From Nashville, the South's Next Great Food Capital Is Waiting (this one!)


    Stay Connected

    Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1707 no     Where to Go in 2026: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Rabat, that means looking beyond the well-trodden streets of Marrakech and Fes to discover what Morocco's laid-back capital really offers—especially as Africa's largest music festival transforms the city into an open-air stage each summer. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Yulia Denisyuk, a travel writer and host of the podcast Going Places with Yulia. Yulia shares why this Atlantic coast city deserves a second look—from its free weeklong Mawazine music festival to a non-touristy medina, Andalusian gardens, Roman ruins, and dishes you won't find anywhere else in Morocco. She also reveals what's coming in 2026: new museums, UNESCO World Book Capital status, and a high-speed train connecting Rabat to Casablanca in just 35 minutes. Plan Your Rabat Getaway (First, explore our Morocco travel guide.) See and Do —Attend the Mawazine Festival, Africa's largest music festival, a free weeklong celebration featuring artists from around the world —Explore Chellah, a Roman settlement dating to the first century that doubles as a festival stage —Wander the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a 12th-century Islamic fort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean —Stroll through the Andalusian Gardens for mint tea and ocean views —Take a water taxi across the Bou Regreg River to Salé and back —Browse the medina, where locals shop, have tea, and produce books—a less touristy experience than Marrakech —Visit Mohamed Aziz, a famous bookseller in the medina who has read thousands of books and loves to discuss them Eat and Drink —Try Rabati pastilla, the "royal" version with thick layers and lots of eggs, influenced by Moorish settlers from Andalusia —Seek out kefta, meatballs made with spices unique to Rabat that you won't find elsewhere in Morocco —Eat fresh shrimp and seafood from the Atlantic coast —Sip mint tea at cafes along the riverfront promenade Know Before You Go —In 2026, Rabat becomes UNESCO World Book Capital, with literary events and celebrations starting in April —A new high-speed train will reduce travel time between Casablanca and Rabat from two hours to 35 minutes —The Mawazine Festival typically takes place in late June —Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures; summer is hot but tempered by Atlantic breezes —The medina, Kasbah, and Chellah are all within walking distance of each other Resources • Listen to Yulia's podcast, Going Places with Yulia • Follow Yulia on Instagram • Visit Yulia's website • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠ E4: Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠View From Afar⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 12 Dec 2025 23:31:00 -0000 full Afar This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Rabat, that means looking beyond the well-trodden streets of Marrakech and Fes to discover what Morocco's laid-back capital really offers—especially as Africa's largest music festival transforms the city into an open-air stage each summer. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Yulia Denisyuk, a travel writer and host of the podcast Going Places with Yulia. Yulia shares why this Atlantic coast city deserves a second look—from its free weeklong Mawazine music festival to a non-touristy medina, Andalusian gardens, Roman ruins, and dishes you won't find anywhere else in Morocco. She also reveals what's coming in 2026: new museums, UNESCO World Book Capital status, and a high-speed train connecting Rabat to Casablanca in just 35 minutes. Plan Your Rabat Getaway (First, explore our Morocco travel guide.) See and Do —Attend the Mawazine Festival, Africa's largest music festival, a free weeklong celebration featuring artists from around the world —Explore Chellah, a Roman settlement dating to the first century that doubles as a festival stage —Wander the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a 12th-century Islamic fort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean —Stroll through the Andalusian Gardens for mint tea and ocean views —Take a water taxi across the Bou Regreg River to Salé and back —Browse the medina, where locals shop, have tea, and produce books—a less touristy experience than Marrakech —Visit Mohamed Aziz, a famous bookseller in the medina who has read thousands of books and loves to discuss them Eat and Drink —Try Rabati pastilla, the "royal" version with thick layers and lots of eggs, influenced by Moorish settlers from Andalusia —Seek out kefta, meatballs made with spices unique to Rabat that you won't find elsewhere in Morocco —Eat fresh shrimp and seafood from the Atlantic coast —Sip mint tea at cafes along the riverfront promenade Know Before You Go —In 2026, Rabat becomes UNESCO World Book Capital, with literary events and celebrations starting in April —A new high-speed train will reduce travel time between Casablanca and Rabat from two hours to 35 minutes —The Mawazine Festival typically takes place in late June —Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures; summer is hot but tempered by Atlantic breezes —The medina, Kasbah, and Chellah are all within walking distance of each other Resources • Listen to Yulia's podcast, Going Places with Yulia • Follow Yulia on Instagram • Visit Yulia's website • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠ E3: ⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠ E4: Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, ⁠View From Afar⁠, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and⁠ ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    For Rabat, that means looking beyond the well-trodden streets of Marrakech and Fes to discover what Morocco's laid-back capital really offers—especially as Africa's largest music festival transforms the city into an open-air stage each summer.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Yulia Denisyuk, a travel writer and host of the podcast Going Places with Yulia. Yulia shares why this Atlantic coast city deserves a second look—from its free weeklong Mawazine music festival to a non-touristy medina, Andalusian gardens, Roman ruins, and dishes you won't find anywhere else in Morocco. She also reveals what's coming in 2026: new museums, UNESCO World Book Capital status, and a high-speed train connecting Rabat to Casablanca in just 35 minutes.

    Plan Your Rabat Getaway

    (First, explore our Morocco travel guide.)

    See and Do

    —Attend the Mawazine Festival, Africa's largest music festival, a free weeklong celebration featuring artists from around the world

    —Explore Chellah, a Roman settlement dating to the first century that doubles as a festival stage

    —Wander the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a 12th-century Islamic fort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean

    —Stroll through the Andalusian Gardens for mint tea and ocean views

    —Take a water taxi across the Bou Regreg River to Salé and back

    —Browse the medina, where locals shop, have tea, and produce books—a less touristy experience than Marrakech

    —Visit Mohamed Aziz, a famous bookseller in the medina who has read thousands of books and loves to discuss them

    Eat and Drink

    —Try Rabati pastilla, the "royal" version with thick layers and lots of eggs, influenced by Moorish settlers from Andalusia

    —Seek out kefta, meatballs made with spices unique to Rabat that you won't find elsewhere in Morocco

    —Eat fresh shrimp and seafood from the Atlantic coast

    —Sip mint tea at cafes along the riverfront promenade

    Know Before You Go

    —In 2026, Rabat becomes UNESCO World Book Capital, with literary events and celebrations starting in April

    —A new high-speed train will reduce travel time between Casablanca and Rabat from two hours to 35 minutes

    —The Mawazine Festival typically takes place in late June

    —Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures; summer is hot but tempered by Atlantic breezes

    —The medina, Kasbah, and Chellah are all within walking distance of each other

    Resources

    • Listen to Yulia's podcast, Going Places with Yulia

    • Follow Yulia on Instagram

    • Visit Yulia's website

    • Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's Where to Go in 2026 list

    • Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia


    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: T⁠⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠⁠

    E3: ⁠⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠⁠

    E4: Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate

    E5: Why Morocco's Chill Capital Deserves Your Attention (this one!)


    Stay Connected

    Unpacked by Afar is part of⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1058 no     Where to Go in 2026: Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released ⁠Where to Go list⁠—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Albuquerque, that means looking beyond a quick stop on the way to Santa Fe to discover what New Mexico's largest city really offers—especially as Route 66 celebrates its centennial in 2026. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Matt Kirouac, a writer who fell in love with Albuquerque several years ago during Balloon Fiesta and has returned many times since. He shares why this "flyover city" deserves a second look—from its 18-mile stretch of neon-lit Route 66 to native-owned breweries, centuries-old restaurants in Old Town, and petroglyphs scattered across dormant volcanoes. Plan Your Albuquerque Getaway (First, listen to our Unpacked episode about the city and explore our New Mexico travel guide. ) Stay —Book a room at ⁠Arrive Albuquerque⁠, a renovated 1930s motor court with a pool, Pan-Asian restaurant, and onsite gallery featuring Indigenous and local artists —Stay at the historic ⁠Hotel Andaluz⁠, which recently opened a rooftop speakeasy-style bar and wood-fired restaurant, Char —Watch for the new boutique hotel opening in the ⁠Hiway House⁠ motel in Nob Hill Eat and Drink —Dine at ⁠M'Tucci's⁠, an Italian restaurant in a former Route 66 service station (don't miss the speakeasy in the alley) —Have lunch at ⁠Church Street Cafe⁠ in one of Albuquerque's oldest buildings, dating to the 1700s —Eat traditional New Mexican fare at ⁠Mary & Tito's Cafe⁠, known for decades-old homespun recipes —Visit ⁠Bow & Arrow Brewing⁠, a native- and women-owned brewery known for southwestern-inspired beers like blue corn pilsner —Explore ⁠Sawmill Market⁠, a food hall with local vendors See and Do —Walk or bike the 18-mile Route 66 stretch along Central Avenue, lined with historic neon signs and motor courts —Visit ⁠Petroglyph National Monument⁠ to see some of the 25,000 petroglyphs scattered across dormant volcanoes —Take the ⁠Sandia Peak Tramway⁠ to the top and dine at the restaurant, or hike the 17-mile round trip trail —Explore ⁠Old Town Albuquerque⁠ for galleries, turquoise jewelry, pottery, and the Rattlesnake Museum —See a movie or concert at the recently renovated ⁠KiMo Theatre⁠ —Browse queer cowboy art at ⁠Anthony Hurd Gallery⁠ Resources Follow Matt's work on ⁠Instagram⁠ Check out his new book, Secret Oklahoma Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's ⁠Where to Go in 2026 list⁠ Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠ E3: ⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠ E4: Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 11 Dec 2025 20:42:00 -0000 full Afar This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released ⁠Where to Go list⁠—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Albuquerque, that means looking beyond a quick stop on the way to Santa Fe to discover what New Mexico's largest city really offers—especially as Route 66 celebrates its centennial in 2026. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Matt Kirouac, a writer who fell in love with Albuquerque several years ago during Balloon Fiesta and has returned many times since. He shares why this "flyover city" deserves a second look—from its 18-mile stretch of neon-lit Route 66 to native-owned breweries, centuries-old restaurants in Old Town, and petroglyphs scattered across dormant volcanoes. Plan Your Albuquerque Getaway (First, listen to our Unpacked episode about the city and explore our New Mexico travel guide. ) Stay —Book a room at ⁠Arrive Albuquerque⁠, a renovated 1930s motor court with a pool, Pan-Asian restaurant, and onsite gallery featuring Indigenous and local artists —Stay at the historic ⁠Hotel Andaluz⁠, which recently opened a rooftop speakeasy-style bar and wood-fired restaurant, Char —Watch for the new boutique hotel opening in the ⁠Hiway House⁠ motel in Nob Hill Eat and Drink —Dine at ⁠M'Tucci's⁠, an Italian restaurant in a former Route 66 service station (don't miss the speakeasy in the alley) —Have lunch at ⁠Church Street Cafe⁠ in one of Albuquerque's oldest buildings, dating to the 1700s —Eat traditional New Mexican fare at ⁠Mary & Tito's Cafe⁠, known for decades-old homespun recipes —Visit ⁠Bow & Arrow Brewing⁠, a native- and women-owned brewery known for southwestern-inspired beers like blue corn pilsner —Explore ⁠Sawmill Market⁠, a food hall with local vendors See and Do —Walk or bike the 18-mile Route 66 stretch along Central Avenue, lined with historic neon signs and motor courts —Visit ⁠Petroglyph National Monument⁠ to see some of the 25,000 petroglyphs scattered across dormant volcanoes —Take the ⁠Sandia Peak Tramway⁠ to the top and dine at the restaurant, or hike the 17-mile round trip trail —Explore ⁠Old Town Albuquerque⁠ for galleries, turquoise jewelry, pottery, and the Rattlesnake Museum —See a movie or concert at the recently renovated ⁠KiMo Theatre⁠ —Browse queer cowboy art at ⁠Anthony Hurd Gallery⁠ Resources Follow Matt's work on ⁠Instagram⁠ Check out his new book, Secret Oklahoma Explore all 24 destinations on Afar's ⁠Where to Go in 2026 list⁠ Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series E1: T⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠ E2: ⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠ E3: ⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠ E4: Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate (this one!) Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released ⁠Where to Go list⁠—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    For Albuquerque, that means looking beyond a quick stop on the way to Santa Fe to discover what New Mexico's largest city really offers—especially as Route 66 celebrates its centennial in 2026.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Matt Kirouac, a writer who fell in love with Albuquerque several years ago during Balloon Fiesta and has returned many times since. He shares why this "flyover city" deserves a second look—from its 18-mile stretch of neon-lit Route 66 to native-owned breweries, centuries-old restaurants in Old Town, and petroglyphs scattered across dormant volcanoes.

    Plan Your Albuquerque Getaway

    (First, listen to our Unpacked episode about the city and explore our New Mexico travel guide. )

    Stay —Book a room at ⁠Arrive Albuquerque⁠, a renovated 1930s motor court with a pool, Pan-Asian restaurant, and onsite gallery featuring Indigenous and local artists —Stay at the historic ⁠Hotel Andaluz⁠, which recently opened a rooftop speakeasy-style bar and wood-fired restaurant, Char —Watch for the new boutique hotel opening in the ⁠Hiway House⁠ motel in Nob Hill

    Eat and Drink —Dine at ⁠M'Tucci's⁠, an Italian restaurant in a former Route 66 service station (don't miss the speakeasy in the alley) —Have lunch at ⁠Church Street Cafe⁠ in one of Albuquerque's oldest buildings, dating to the 1700s —Eat traditional New Mexican fare at ⁠Mary & Tito's Cafe⁠, known for decades-old homespun recipes —Visit ⁠Bow & Arrow Brewing⁠, a native- and women-owned brewery known for southwestern-inspired beers like blue corn pilsner —Explore ⁠Sawmill Market⁠, a food hall with local vendors

    See and Do —Walk or bike the 18-mile Route 66 stretch along Central Avenue, lined with historic neon signs and motor courts —Visit ⁠Petroglyph National Monument⁠ to see some of the 25,000 petroglyphs scattered across dormant volcanoes —Take the ⁠Sandia Peak Tramway⁠ to the top and dine at the restaurant, or hike the 17-mile round trip trail —Explore ⁠Old Town Albuquerque⁠ for galleries, turquoise jewelry, pottery, and the Rattlesnake Museum —See a movie or concert at the recently renovated ⁠KiMo Theatre⁠ —Browse queer cowboy art at ⁠Anthony Hurd Gallery⁠


    Resources


    Listen to All the Episodes in our Where to Go 2026 Series

    E1: T⁠⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠⁠

    E2: ⁠⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret⁠

    E3: ⁠The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago⁠

    E4: Route 66 Turns 100—and Albuquerque Is Ready to Celebrate (this one!)


    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1460 no     Where to Go in 2026: The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Sweden, that means skipping Stockholm and heading instead to the Stockholm Archipelago—a series of 24,000 islands about the size of Connecticut. It's home to a new 170-mile-long hiking path network launched in October 2024. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Katherine LaGrave, Afar's executive editor and host of our Unpacked: Five Questions series. This past summer, Katherine and her cousin spent a week hiking through pine and oak forests, island-hopping by ferry, eating post-hike Swedish meatballs, and sweating in saunas along the archipelago—covering about 62 miles across seven islands. Plan Your Stockholm Archipelago Trip Getting There & Around •       The archipelago is easily accessible from Stockholm via a well-connected ferry system •       Boat taxis are available for more direct island-to-island transport •       On the islands, get around by foot or bike—rentals are available •       Use the Stockholm Archipelago Trail app for offline maps and trail navigation Where to Stay •       Grinda Wärdshus—stay at the historic home, once the summer residence of the director of the Nobel Prize Committee •       Ingmarsö—a farmhouse B&B with private garden access •       Waxholms Hotell—a newly restored in Vaxholm, the island's capital •       Thanks to Sweden's Right to Roam laws, you can camp almost anywhere for one night (with stricter rules in nature reserves) Listen to All Our Where to Go in 2026 Episodes E1: This Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude E2: Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret Resources •       Read Katherine's full story and explore all 24 destinations on our Where to Go in 2026 list •       Learn more about sauna culture in the Midwest (and why there's a right and a wrong way to say it...) •       Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 10 Dec 2025 21:38:00 -0000 full Afar This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Sweden, that means skipping Stockholm and heading instead to the Stockholm Archipelago—a series of 24,000 islands about the size of Connecticut. It's home to a new 170-mile-long hiking path network launched in October 2024. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Katherine LaGrave, Afar's executive editor and host of our Unpacked: Five Questions series. This past summer, Katherine and her cousin spent a week hiking through pine and oak forests, island-hopping by ferry, eating post-hike Swedish meatballs, and sweating in saunas along the archipelago—covering about 62 miles across seven islands. Plan Your Stockholm Archipelago Trip Getting There & Around •       The archipelago is easily accessible from Stockholm via a well-connected ferry system •       Boat taxis are available for more direct island-to-island transport •       On the islands, get around by foot or bike—rentals are available •       Use the Stockholm Archipelago Trail app for offline maps and trail navigation Where to Stay •       Grinda Wärdshus—stay at the historic home, once the summer residence of the director of the Nobel Prize Committee •       Ingmarsö—a farmhouse B&B with private garden access •       Waxholms Hotell—a newly restored in Vaxholm, the island's capital •       Thanks to Sweden's Right to Roam laws, you can camp almost anywhere for one night (with stricter rules in nature reserves) Listen to All Our Where to Go in 2026 Episodes E1: This Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude E2: Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret Resources •       Read Katherine's full story and explore all 24 destinations on our Where to Go in 2026 list •       Learn more about sauna culture in the Midwest (and why there's a right and a wrong way to say it...) •       Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    For Sweden, that means skipping Stockholm and heading instead to the Stockholm Archipelago—a series of 24,000 islands about the size of Connecticut. It's home to a new 170-mile-long hiking path network launched in October 2024.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Katherine LaGrave, Afar's executive editor and host of our Unpacked: Five Questions series. This past summer, Katherine and her cousin spent a week hiking through pine and oak forests, island-hopping by ferry, eating post-hike Swedish meatballs, and sweating in saunas along the archipelago—covering about 62 miles across seven islands.

    Plan Your Stockholm Archipelago Trip

    Getting There & Around

    •       The archipelago is easily accessible from Stockholm via a well-connected ferry system

    •       Boat taxis are available for more direct island-to-island transport

    •       On the islands, get around by foot or bike—rentals are available

    •       Use the Stockholm Archipelago Trail app for offline maps and trail navigation


    Where to Stay

    •       Grinda Wärdshus—stay at the historic home, once the summer residence of the director of the Nobel Prize Committee

    •       Ingmarsö—a farmhouse B&B with private garden access

    •       Waxholms Hotell—a newly restored in Vaxholm, the island's capital

    •       Thanks to Sweden's Right to Roam laws, you can camp almost anywhere for one night (with stricter rules in nature reserves)


    Listen to All Our Where to Go in 2026 Episodes

    E1: This Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude

    E2: Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret


    Resources

    •       Read Katherine's full story and explore all 24 destinations on our Where to Go in 2026 list

    •       Learn more about sauna culture in the Midwest (and why there's a right and a wrong way to say it...)

    •       Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1703 no     Where to Go in 2026: Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Peru, that means looking beyond Machu Picchu and Cusco to discover what lies south—a region of white volcanic cities, canyons twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, and a food scene that rivals Lima's in flavor (if not fame). In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Mark Johanson, a Chile-based travel writer and author of Mars on Earth: Wanderings in the World's Driest Desert. Mark recently explored southern Peru—from the gleaming colonial streets of Arequipa to the condor-filled skies above the Colca Canyon—and found a landscape rich with adventure, history, and some of the heartiest food in the Andes. Plan Your Southern Peru Getaway In Arequipa Stay at Cirqa—a luxury hotel in a 16th-century monastery Explore the Santa Catalina Monastery—a city-within-a-city with salmon-pink walls and centuries of history Eat at a traditional picanterías like La Nueva Palomino or the more modern Victoria Picantería Try the rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper), chupe de camarones (river shrimp chowder), and adobo arequipeño (tangy pork stew) Wash it down with chicha de guiñapo—the original Andean purple corn beer served in huge glasses called "el caporal" Colca Canyon & Beyond Stay at Puquio—Peru's first safari-style adventure camp in Colca Canyon Watch dozens of Andean condors ride the thermals at sunrise Hike into the canyon and experience the climate shift from cold highlands to near-tropical canyon floor Mountain bike down a volcano (for the brave) or hike up one (for the rest of us) Cotahuasi & Toro Muerto Stay at Tinajani—a new tented camp in the Tinajani Canyon Explore pre-Inca ruins with very few other visitors Experience the wind-swept plains and golden seasonal landscapes Lake Titicaca Stay at Titilaka—with a new sister property coming in 2027 Visit the world's highest navigable lake at 12,500 feet Spot flamingos in high-altitude lagoons along the way Getting Around Belmond Andean Explorer—a luxury train connecting Arequipa to Lake Titicaca and Cusco SA Expeditions—for tailor-made trips and off-the-beaten-path Qhapaq Ñan (ancient Incan trail) adventures Resources Follow Mark's work on his website and pick up his book Mars on Earth Explore all 24 destinations on our Where to Go in 2026 list Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 10 Dec 2025 01:33:00 -0000 full Afar This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For Peru, that means looking beyond Machu Picchu and Cusco to discover what lies south—a region of white volcanic cities, canyons twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, and a food scene that rivals Lima's in flavor (if not fame). In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Mark Johanson, a Chile-based travel writer and author of Mars on Earth: Wanderings in the World's Driest Desert. Mark recently explored southern Peru—from the gleaming colonial streets of Arequipa to the condor-filled skies above the Colca Canyon—and found a landscape rich with adventure, history, and some of the heartiest food in the Andes. Plan Your Southern Peru Getaway In Arequipa Stay at Cirqa—a luxury hotel in a 16th-century monastery Explore the Santa Catalina Monastery—a city-within-a-city with salmon-pink walls and centuries of history Eat at a traditional picanterías like La Nueva Palomino or the more modern Victoria Picantería Try the rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper), chupe de camarones (river shrimp chowder), and adobo arequipeño (tangy pork stew) Wash it down with chicha de guiñapo—the original Andean purple corn beer served in huge glasses called "el caporal" Colca Canyon & Beyond Stay at Puquio—Peru's first safari-style adventure camp in Colca Canyon Watch dozens of Andean condors ride the thermals at sunrise Hike into the canyon and experience the climate shift from cold highlands to near-tropical canyon floor Mountain bike down a volcano (for the brave) or hike up one (for the rest of us) Cotahuasi & Toro Muerto Stay at Tinajani—a new tented camp in the Tinajani Canyon Explore pre-Inca ruins with very few other visitors Experience the wind-swept plains and golden seasonal landscapes Lake Titicaca Stay at Titilaka—with a new sister property coming in 2027 Visit the world's highest navigable lake at 12,500 feet Spot flamingos in high-altitude lagoons along the way Getting Around Belmond Andean Explorer—a luxury train connecting Arequipa to Lake Titicaca and Cusco SA Expeditions—for tailor-made trips and off-the-beaten-path Qhapaq Ñan (ancient Incan trail) adventures Resources Follow Mark's work on his website and pick up his book Mars on Earth Explore all 24 destinations on our Where to Go in 2026 list Follow us on Instagram: @afarmedia Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    For Peru, that means looking beyond Machu Picchu and Cusco to discover what lies south—a region of white volcanic cities, canyons twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, and a food scene that rivals Lima's in flavor (if not fame).

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Mark Johanson, a Chile-based travel writer and author of Mars on Earth: Wanderings in the World's Driest Desert. Mark recently explored southern Peru—from the gleaming colonial streets of Arequipa to the condor-filled skies above the Colca Canyon—and found a landscape rich with adventure, history, and some of the heartiest food in the Andes.

    Plan Your Southern Peru Getaway


    In Arequipa

    • Stay at Cirqa—a luxury hotel in a 16th-century monastery
    • Explore the Santa Catalina Monastery—a city-within-a-city with salmon-pink walls and centuries of history
    • Eat at a traditional picanterías like La Nueva Palomino or the more modern Victoria Picantería
    • Try the rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper), chupe de camarones (river shrimp chowder), and adobo arequipeño (tangy pork stew)
    • Wash it down with chicha de guiñapo—the original Andean purple corn beer served in huge glasses called "el caporal"

    Colca Canyon & Beyond

    • Stay at Puquio—Peru's first safari-style adventure camp in Colca Canyon
    • Watch dozens of Andean condors ride the thermals at sunrise
    • Hike into the canyon and experience the climate shift from cold highlands to near-tropical canyon floor
    • Mountain bike down a volcano (for the brave) or hike up one (for the rest of us)

    Cotahuasi & Toro Muerto

    • Stay at Tinajani—a new tented camp in the Tinajani Canyon
    • Explore pre-Inca ruins with very few other visitors
    • Experience the wind-swept plains and golden seasonal landscapes

    Lake Titicaca

    • Stay at Titilaka—with a new sister property coming in 2027
    • Visit the world's highest navigable lake at 12,500 feet
    • Spot flamingos in high-altitude lagoons along the way

    • Getting Around

    • Belmond Andean Explorer—a luxury train connecting Arequipa to Lake Titicaca and Cusco
    • SA Expeditions—for tailor-made trips and off-the-beaten-path Qhapaq Ñan (ancient Incan trail) adventures

    Resources

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1685 no     The City Where You'll Find Ghost Stories, Gullah Rhythms, and the "Carnegie Hall of the South" In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city's deeper currents. For the series finale: Charleston's performing arts scene is nothing short of extraordinary. Aislyn explores the city's world-class venues—from America's first dedicated theater to a stunning apricot-colored concert hall—and meets the people bringing opera, dance, jazz, and theater to life in the Lowcountry. In This Episode You'll Learn The remarkable 300-year history of the Dock Street Theater, where ghost stories and contemporary artists meet How the Spoleto Festival USA became an international arts destination that draws everyone from Yo-Yo Ma to Patti Smith Why the Gaillard Center is "the Carnegie Hall" of the South —and how it commissions new works that celebrate Lowcountry stories and landscapes Don't Miss These Moments [02:00] Inside the Dock Street Theater's drawing room [06:00] The record for most light bulbs blown during a single performance [11:00] Spoleto's general director on why 125 concerts in 17 days creates festival magic [13:00] The two ghosts said to haunt Dock Street Theater [18:00] Aislyn visits Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston—one of the most beautiful outdoor venues in the city [21:00] How the Gaillard Center transformed from a brutalist municipal auditorium into a world-class performance hall [24:00] The moment Audra McDonald turned off her microphone and brought the house to tears *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising. Featured in This Episode Venues Dock Street Theater ⁠Gaillard Center⁠ Festivals & Organizations Spoleto Festival USA Piccolo Spoleto Charleston Stage (Dock Street's resident theater company) Chamber Music Charleston MOJA Arts Festival Charleston Literary Festival Performers The Gullah Collective Step Afrika! Complexions Contemporary Ballet (upcoming) Resources Plan your Charleston arts trip using our guides on afar.com Catch Up on the Series Missed any episodes? Here's the full Charleston series: Episode 1: To Understand the Soul of This Southern City, Head for the Water Episode 2: Charleston Serves Up More Than 300 Years of Flavor—and Every Bite Tells a Story Episode 3: The Artisans Keeping the Soul of Charleston's King Street Alive Episode 4: Opera, Punk Rock, and a 300-Year-Old Ghost: One City's Arts Scene Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 10 Dec 2025 01:18:00 -0000 full Afar In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city's deeper currents. For the series finale: Charleston's performing arts scene is nothing short of extraordinary. Aislyn explores the city's world-class venues—from America's first dedicated theater to a stunning apricot-colored concert hall—and meets the people bringing opera, dance, jazz, and theater to life in the Lowcountry. In This Episode You'll Learn The remarkable 300-year history of the Dock Street Theater, where ghost stories and contemporary artists meet How the Spoleto Festival USA became an international arts destination that draws everyone from Yo-Yo Ma to Patti Smith Why the Gaillard Center is "the Carnegie Hall" of the South —and how it commissions new works that celebrate Lowcountry stories and landscapes Don't Miss These Moments [02:00] Inside the Dock Street Theater's drawing room [06:00] The record for most light bulbs blown during a single performance [11:00] Spoleto's general director on why 125 concerts in 17 days creates festival magic [13:00] The two ghosts said to haunt Dock Street Theater [18:00] Aislyn visits Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston—one of the most beautiful outdoor venues in the city [21:00] How the Gaillard Center transformed from a brutalist municipal auditorium into a world-class performance hall [24:00] The moment Audra McDonald turned off her microphone and brought the house to tears *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising. Featured in This Episode Venues Dock Street Theater ⁠Gaillard Center⁠ Festivals & Organizations Spoleto Festival USA Piccolo Spoleto Charleston Stage (Dock Street's resident theater company) Chamber Music Charleston MOJA Arts Festival Charleston Literary Festival Performers The Gullah Collective Step Afrika! Complexions Contemporary Ballet (upcoming) Resources Plan your Charleston arts trip using our guides on afar.com Catch Up on the Series Missed any episodes? Here's the full Charleston series: Episode 1: To Understand the Soul of This Southern City, Head for the Water Episode 2: Charleston Serves Up More Than 300 Years of Flavor—and Every Bite Tells a Story Episode 3: The Artisans Keeping the Soul of Charleston's King Street Alive Episode 4: Opera, Punk Rock, and a 300-Year-Old Ghost: One City's Arts Scene Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city's deeper currents.

    For the series finale: Charleston's performing arts scene is nothing short of extraordinary. Aislyn explores the city's world-class venues—from America's first dedicated theater to a stunning apricot-colored concert hall—and meets the people bringing opera, dance, jazz, and theater to life in the Lowcountry.


    In This Episode You'll Learn

    • The remarkable 300-year history of the Dock Street Theater, where ghost stories and contemporary artists meet
    • How the Spoleto Festival USA became an international arts destination that draws everyone from Yo-Yo Ma to Patti Smith
    • Why the Gaillard Center is "the Carnegie Hall" of the South —and how it commissions new works that celebrate Lowcountry stories and landscapes

    Don't Miss These Moments

    • [02:00] Inside the Dock Street Theater's drawing room
    • [06:00] The record for most light bulbs blown during a single performance
    • [11:00] Spoleto's general director on why 125 concerts in 17 days creates festival magic
    • [13:00] The two ghosts said to haunt Dock Street Theater
    • [18:00] Aislyn visits Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston—one of the most beautiful outdoor venues in the city
    • [21:00] How the Gaillard Center transformed from a brutalist municipal auditorium into a world-class performance hall
    • [24:00] The moment Audra McDonald turned off her microphone and brought the house to tears

    *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising.

    Featured in This Episode

    Venues

    Festivals & Organizations

    Performers

    Resources

    • Plan your Charleston arts trip using our guides on afar.com

    Catch Up on the Series

    Missed any episodes? Here's the full Charleston series:

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1774 no     Where to Go in 2026: This Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For the Bahamas, that means looking beyond Nassau's cruise port crowds to discover what this nation of 700 islands and cays really offers. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Terry Ward, a Florida-based writer who has spent years exploring the Bahamas. She traveled to Eleuthera—one of the Out Islands—where she found pink-sand beaches with barely a footprint, locally-owned guesthouses where Bahamian culture takes center stage, and wild dolphins in crystal-clear waters. Plan your Eleuthera Getaway —Stay at the Farm, part of the Little Island Hotels chain —Stay at the Coral Sands Inn & Cottages, which has eight cottages —Eat at the Fig Tree at the Potlatch social club —Eat the national dish, conch salad, at many Harbour Island restaurants —Explore the Sapphire Blue Hole —Scuba dive at Valentine's Resort/Beach on Harbour Island —Visit Seahorse National Park (when it reopens to the public) —Stay Lighthouse Point while sailing with Disney Cruise Line Listen to All Our Where to Go in 2026 Episodes E1: T⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠ E2: ⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret E3: The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago Resources Follow Terry's work on her website Explore all 24 destinations on our Where to Go in 2026 list Follow us on Instagram @afarmedia Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 08 Dec 2025 23:23:00 -0000 full Afar This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure. For the Bahamas, that means looking beyond Nassau's cruise port crowds to discover what this nation of 700 islands and cays really offers. In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Terry Ward, a Florida-based writer who has spent years exploring the Bahamas. She traveled to Eleuthera—one of the Out Islands—where she found pink-sand beaches with barely a footprint, locally-owned guesthouses where Bahamian culture takes center stage, and wild dolphins in crystal-clear waters. Plan your Eleuthera Getaway —Stay at the Farm, part of the Little Island Hotels chain —Stay at the Coral Sands Inn & Cottages, which has eight cottages —Eat at the Fig Tree at the Potlatch social club —Eat the national dish, conch salad, at many Harbour Island restaurants —Explore the Sapphire Blue Hole —Scuba dive at Valentine's Resort/Beach on Harbour Island —Visit Seahorse National Park (when it reopens to the public) —Stay Lighthouse Point while sailing with Disney Cruise Line Listen to All Our Where to Go in 2026 Episodes E1: T⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠ E2: ⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret E3: The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago Resources Follow Terry's work on her website Explore all 24 destinations on our Where to Go in 2026 list Follow us on Instagram @afarmedia Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This month on Unpacked, we're diving into Afar's just-released Where to Go list—but this year's picks are different. In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to other parts of the world. Our editors carefully selected 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that will inspire your next great adventure.

    For the Bahamas, that means looking beyond Nassau's cruise port crowds to discover what this nation of 700 islands and cays really offers.

    In this episode, host Aislyn Greene talks with Terry Ward, a Florida-based writer who has spent years exploring the Bahamas. She traveled to Eleuthera—one of the Out Islands—where she found pink-sand beaches with barely a footprint, locally-owned guesthouses where Bahamian culture takes center stage, and wild dolphins in crystal-clear waters.

    Plan your Eleuthera Getaway

    —Stay at the Farm, part of the Little Island Hotels chain

    —Stay at the Coral Sands Inn & Cottages, which has eight cottages

    —Eat at the Fig Tree at the Potlatch social club

    —Eat the national dish, conch salad, at many Harbour Island restaurants

    —Explore the Sapphire Blue Hole

    —Scuba dive at Valentine's Resort/Beach on Harbour Island

    —Visit Seahorse National Park (when it reopens to the public)

    —Stay Lighthouse Point while sailing with Disney Cruise Line

    Listen to All Our Where to Go in 2026 Episodes

    E1: T⁠his Island in the Bahamas Promises Pink Sand, Historic Hideaways, and Perfect Solitude ⁠

    E2: ⁠Why Peru's Second City Might Be Its Best-Kept Secret

    E3: The New 170-Mile Hiking Network Connecting Stockholm's Dreamy Archipelago

    Resources

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1456 no     Where to Go in 2026: The Most Underrated Destinations for the Year Ahead In 2026, it's time to travel differently. This year's Where to Go list from Afar isn't about the usual suspects—it's about lessening the burden on over-touristed destinations while discovering places that are equally extraordinary. Today, we released our list of 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that deliver all the magic with none of the crowds. From Bucharest's Belle Époque architecture and lively bar scene to Sado Island's pristine beaches and relaxing onsens, these destinations prove you don't have to sacrifice incredible experiences to travel more responsibly. And on December 5—and over the next two months—we'll explore 15 of these places here on Unpacked, through conversations with the writers who discovered them firsthand. Resources Where to Go in 2026: Places That Are on the Rise and Off the Beaten Path Find inspiration, or start planning your next trip, on afar.com Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 04 Dec 2025 20:38:00 -0000 trailer Afar In 2026, it's time to travel differently. This year's Where to Go list from Afar isn't about the usual suspects—it's about lessening the burden on over-touristed destinations while discovering places that are equally extraordinary. Today, we released our list of 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that deliver all the magic with none of the crowds. From Bucharest's Belle Époque architecture and lively bar scene to Sado Island's pristine beaches and relaxing onsens, these destinations prove you don't have to sacrifice incredible experiences to travel more responsibly. And on December 5—and over the next two months—we'll explore 15 of these places here on Unpacked, through conversations with the writers who discovered them firsthand. Resources Where to Go in 2026: Places That Are on the Rise and Off the Beaten Path Find inspiration, or start planning your next trip, on afar.com Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In 2026, it's time to travel differently. This year's Where to Go list from Afar isn't about the usual suspects—it's about lessening the burden on over-touristed destinations while discovering places that are equally extraordinary.

    Today, we released our list of 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that deliver all the magic with none of the crowds. From Bucharest's Belle Époque architecture and lively bar scene to Sado Island's pristine beaches and relaxing onsens, these destinations prove you don't have to sacrifice incredible experiences to travel more responsibly.

    And on December 5—and over the next two months—we'll explore 15 of these places here on Unpacked, through conversations with the writers who discovered them firsthand.


    Resources

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     76 no     The Artisans Keeping the Soul of Charleston's King Street Alive In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city's deeper currents. This week: Step onto King Street, Charleston's iconic retail corridor, where three centuries of commerce come alive. From century-old family businesses to contemporary local makers, discover how Charleston's shopping scene preserves history while embracing innovation—one handcrafted treasure at a time. (And be sure to listen to episode one, where we set sail on Charleston's many waterways, and episode two, where we dive into the city's iconic food scene.) In this episode, you'll learn How M. Dumas and Sons evolved from selling Navy uniforms to becoming Charleston's menswear institution since 1917 The story of the Preservation Society of Charleston—and its fantastic shop, filled with all local products. How Croghan's Jewel Box has been engraving Charleston's history for 117 years—while also embracing modern technology How Brackish turns sustainably sourced feathers into wearable art worn by celebrities from Bill Murray to Blake Lively What makes King Street's three distinct zones unique—and why you might be underdressed for dinner The significance of sweetgrass baskets and their generational craftsmanship Featured Guests Gary Flynn: Co-owner and CEO of M. Dumas and Sons, Charleston's century-old menswear institution Brian Turner: CEO of the Preservation Society of Charleston, America's first grassroots preservation organization Jonathan Free: Retail manager at the Preservation Society Shop Rhett Ramsay Outten: Third-generation owner of Croghan's Jewel Box, Charleston's oldest family-run jewelry store Don't miss these moments* [2:30] How M. Dumas and Sons became the number one Levi's dealer in South Carolina after WWII [4:00] The charming story of how a sport coat pattern with "a little bit of pink" brings out Charleston's colorful style [8:45] Susan Pringle Frost's pioneering preservation work that saved King Street's architecture [14:30] How Brackish bow ties made from sustainable feathers became a celebrity favorite [17:00] The day Rhett's mother sold her personal signet ring with the family crest to "a lovely man from Ohio" [19:30] Watch master jewelers transform postage-stamp-sized materials into heirloom pieces *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising. Resources Read the transcript of the episode Plan your Charleston trip using our guide on afar.com, and learn more about where and how to support local businesses. Join the Preservation Society for 10 percent off purchases at their shop Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 02 Dec 2025 22:59:00 -0000 full Afar In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city's deeper currents. This week: Step onto King Street, Charleston's iconic retail corridor, where three centuries of commerce come alive. From century-old family businesses to contemporary local makers, discover how Charleston's shopping scene preserves history while embracing innovation—one handcrafted treasure at a time. (And be sure to listen to episode one, where we set sail on Charleston's many waterways, and episode two, where we dive into the city's iconic food scene.) In this episode, you'll learn How M. Dumas and Sons evolved from selling Navy uniforms to becoming Charleston's menswear institution since 1917 The story of the Preservation Society of Charleston—and its fantastic shop, filled with all local products. How Croghan's Jewel Box has been engraving Charleston's history for 117 years—while also embracing modern technology How Brackish turns sustainably sourced feathers into wearable art worn by celebrities from Bill Murray to Blake Lively What makes King Street's three distinct zones unique—and why you might be underdressed for dinner The significance of sweetgrass baskets and their generational craftsmanship Featured Guests Gary Flynn: Co-owner and CEO of M. Dumas and Sons, Charleston's century-old menswear institution Brian Turner: CEO of the Preservation Society of Charleston, America's first grassroots preservation organization Jonathan Free: Retail manager at the Preservation Society Shop Rhett Ramsay Outten: Third-generation owner of Croghan's Jewel Box, Charleston's oldest family-run jewelry store Don't miss these moments* [2:30] How M. Dumas and Sons became the number one Levi's dealer in South Carolina after WWII [4:00] The charming story of how a sport coat pattern with "a little bit of pink" brings out Charleston's colorful style [8:45] Susan Pringle Frost's pioneering preservation work that saved King Street's architecture [14:30] How Brackish bow ties made from sustainable feathers became a celebrity favorite [17:00] The day Rhett's mother sold her personal signet ring with the family crest to "a lovely man from Ohio" [19:30] Watch master jewelers transform postage-stamp-sized materials into heirloom pieces *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising. Resources Read the transcript of the episode Plan your Charleston trip using our guide on afar.com, and learn more about where and how to support local businesses. Join the Preservation Society for 10 percent off purchases at their shop Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city's deeper currents.

    This week: Step onto King Street, Charleston's iconic retail corridor, where three centuries of commerce come alive. From century-old family businesses to contemporary local makers, discover how Charleston's shopping scene preserves history while embracing innovation—one handcrafted treasure at a time.

    (And be sure to listen to episode one, where we set sail on Charleston's many waterways, and episode two, where we dive into the city's iconic food scene.)


    In this episode, you'll learn

    • How M. Dumas and Sons evolved from selling Navy uniforms to becoming Charleston's menswear institution since 1917
    • The story of the Preservation Society of Charleston—and its fantastic shop, filled with all local products.
    • How Croghan's Jewel Box has been engraving Charleston's history for 117 years—while also embracing modern technology
    • How Brackish turns sustainably sourced feathers into wearable art worn by celebrities from Bill Murray to Blake Lively
    • What makes King Street's three distinct zones unique—and why you might be underdressed for dinner
    • The significance of sweetgrass baskets and their generational craftsmanship

    Featured Guests

    • Gary Flynn: Co-owner and CEO of M. Dumas and Sons, Charleston's century-old menswear institution
    • Brian Turner: CEO of the Preservation Society of Charleston, America's first grassroots preservation organization
    • Jonathan Free: Retail manager at the Preservation Society Shop
    • Rhett Ramsay Outten: Third-generation owner of Croghan's Jewel Box, Charleston's oldest family-run jewelry store

    Don't miss these moments*

    • [2:30] How M. Dumas and Sons became the number one Levi's dealer in South Carolina after WWII
    • [4:00] The charming story of how a sport coat pattern with "a little bit of pink" brings out Charleston's colorful style
    • [8:45] Susan Pringle Frost's pioneering preservation work that saved King Street's architecture
    • [14:30] How Brackish bow ties made from sustainable feathers became a celebrity favorite
    • [17:00] The day Rhett's mother sold her personal signet ring with the family crest to "a lovely man from Ohio"
    • [19:30] Watch master jewelers transform postage-stamp-sized materials into heirloom pieces

    *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising.

    Resources

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2303 no     Charleston Serves Up More Than 300 Years of Flavor—and Every Bite Tells a Story In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city's deeper currents. This week: Dive fork-first into Charleston's legendary food scene, where history and flavor collide. From the resurrection of she-crab soup to the recreation of a groundbreaking 1865 dinner that celebrated equality, discover how Charleston's culinary landscape tells the story of African, Native American, and European influences—one delicious dish at a time. In this episode, you'll learn How she-crab soup went from a presidential delicacy to near extinction—and its triumphant return at 82 Queen The powerful story behind Nat Fuller's Feast, an 1865 dinner celebrating emancipation that was recreated 150 years later Why you can find 30 different versions of shrimp and grits in Charleston (and why they're all "fat on fat on fat") The essential Gullah Geechee influences that shape Lowcountry cuisine, from red rice to okra How formerly enslaved people became Charleston's great caterers and shaped the city's culinary identity What distinguishes Lowcountry cuisine from broader Southern cooking Featured Guests Chef Kevin Mitchell: Chef instructor at the Culinary Institute of Charleston, food historian, author, and host of Savers of Flavor Jonathan Kish: CEO of Queen Street Hospitality Group, which owns 82 Queen, Charleston's first fine dining Lowcountry restaurant Lamont Ferrebee: Executive sous chef at 82 Queen Don't miss these moments* [2:50] How Kevin's grandmother's tough love at age 6 launched his culinary career [4:30] The emotional moment when the rain stopped during the Nat Fuller's Feast recreation [7:15] Why turtle soup still haunts food historian Michael Twitty [11:45] The West African okra variety grown specifically for its leaves [17:00] The invention (and resurrection) of she-crab soup [19:30] What happened when 82 Queen tried to change their shrimp and grits recipe *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising. Dine around Charleston 82 Queen: Experience Charleston's first fine dining Lowcountry restaurant (since 1982) in their magical courtyard setting. Don't miss the award-winning she-crab soup and their unique barbecue shrimp and grits Chef Scholar Dinner Series: Follow Chef Kevin Mitchell on Instagram for a chance to snag tickets to these intimate 16-seat historical dining experiences (April 15th: honoring Chef Patrick Clark) Hannibal's Kitchen: Try their renowned crab rice and other Gullah Geechee classics For dinner, try Fig, Kultura, Lowland, or the Ordinary For coffee, pastries, or breakfast try Page's Okra Grill, Magnolias, Kudu Coffee, or Bad Bunnies Coffee For a cocktail, try Babas, the Seahorse, or the Gin Joint Resources Read the transcript of the episode Plan your trip to Charleston using our guide on afar.com Follow Chef Kevin Mitchell and the Chef Scholar Dinner Series on Instagram @chefkevinmitchell Watch Savers of Flavor to learn about heirloom Southern ingredients Explore more Charleston restaurant recommendations on afar.com, including the best new restaurants and where to find the best Gullah Geechee food. Next Week Join us as we explore Charleston's vibrant music scene and cultural events, from intimate jazz shows to grand performance halls. Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 25 Nov 2025 23:42:00 -0000 full Afar In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city's deeper currents. This week: Dive fork-first into Charleston's legendary food scene, where history and flavor collide. From the resurrection of she-crab soup to the recreation of a groundbreaking 1865 dinner that celebrated equality, discover how Charleston's culinary landscape tells the story of African, Native American, and European influences—one delicious dish at a time. In this episode, you'll learn How she-crab soup went from a presidential delicacy to near extinction—and its triumphant return at 82 Queen The powerful story behind Nat Fuller's Feast, an 1865 dinner celebrating emancipation that was recreated 150 years later Why you can find 30 different versions of shrimp and grits in Charleston (and why they're all "fat on fat on fat") The essential Gullah Geechee influences that shape Lowcountry cuisine, from red rice to okra How formerly enslaved people became Charleston's great caterers and shaped the city's culinary identity What distinguishes Lowcountry cuisine from broader Southern cooking Featured Guests Chef Kevin Mitchell: Chef instructor at the Culinary Institute of Charleston, food historian, author, and host of Savers of Flavor Jonathan Kish: CEO of Queen Street Hospitality Group, which owns 82 Queen, Charleston's first fine dining Lowcountry restaurant Lamont Ferrebee: Executive sous chef at 82 Queen Don't miss these moments* [2:50] How Kevin's grandmother's tough love at age 6 launched his culinary career [4:30] The emotional moment when the rain stopped during the Nat Fuller's Feast recreation [7:15] Why turtle soup still haunts food historian Michael Twitty [11:45] The West African okra variety grown specifically for its leaves [17:00] The invention (and resurrection) of she-crab soup [19:30] What happened when 82 Queen tried to change their shrimp and grits recipe *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising. Dine around Charleston 82 Queen: Experience Charleston's first fine dining Lowcountry restaurant (since 1982) in their magical courtyard setting. Don't miss the award-winning she-crab soup and their unique barbecue shrimp and grits Chef Scholar Dinner Series: Follow Chef Kevin Mitchell on Instagram for a chance to snag tickets to these intimate 16-seat historical dining experiences (April 15th: honoring Chef Patrick Clark) Hannibal's Kitchen: Try their renowned crab rice and other Gullah Geechee classics For dinner, try Fig, Kultura, Lowland, or the Ordinary For coffee, pastries, or breakfast try Page's Okra Grill, Magnolias, Kudu Coffee, or Bad Bunnies Coffee For a cocktail, try Babas, the Seahorse, or the Gin Joint Resources Read the transcript of the episode Plan your trip to Charleston using our guide on afar.com Follow Chef Kevin Mitchell and the Chef Scholar Dinner Series on Instagram @chefkevinmitchell Watch Savers of Flavor to learn about heirloom Southern ingredients Explore more Charleston restaurant recommendations on afar.com, including the best new restaurants and where to find the best Gullah Geechee food. Next Week Join us as we explore Charleston's vibrant music scene and cultural events, from intimate jazz shows to grand performance halls. Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city's deeper currents.

    This week: Dive fork-first into Charleston's legendary food scene, where history and flavor collide. From the resurrection of she-crab soup to the recreation of a groundbreaking 1865 dinner that celebrated equality, discover how Charleston's culinary landscape tells the story of African, Native American, and European influences—one delicious dish at a time.

    In this episode, you'll learn

    • How she-crab soup went from a presidential delicacy to near extinction—and its triumphant return at 82 Queen
    • The powerful story behind Nat Fuller's Feast, an 1865 dinner celebrating emancipation that was recreated 150 years later
    • Why you can find 30 different versions of shrimp and grits in Charleston (and why they're all "fat on fat on fat")
    • The essential Gullah Geechee influences that shape Lowcountry cuisine, from red rice to okra
    • How formerly enslaved people became Charleston's great caterers and shaped the city's culinary identity
    • What distinguishes Lowcountry cuisine from broader Southern cooking

    Featured Guests

    Don't miss these moments*

    • [2:50] How Kevin's grandmother's tough love at age 6 launched his culinary career
    • [4:30] The emotional moment when the rain stopped during the Nat Fuller's Feast recreation
    • [7:15] Why turtle soup still haunts food historian Michael Twitty
    • [11:45] The West African okra variety grown specifically for its leaves
    • [17:00] The invention (and resurrection) of she-crab soup
    • [19:30] What happened when 82 Queen tried to change their shrimp and grits recipe

    *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising.

    Dine around Charleston


    Resources

    Next Week Join us as we explore Charleston's vibrant music scene and cultural events, from intimate jazz shows to grand performance halls.


    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1596 no     The Wampanoag Story: 10,000 Years of Food, Land, and Survival in Massachusetts This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week we hosted Unpacked Live, a—you guessed it—live version of the podcast in partnership with Visit California in Boston, Massachusetts. (You can ⁠watch the full conversation on YouTube⁠.) The event celebrated California's diverse Native communities, and host Aislyn Greene was joined on stage by John Acuna, a Hoopa Valley tribal member and Klamath River kayak guide (listen to his episode), and Christina Lonewolf Martinez, a private chef based in Monterey uniting the worlds of fine-dining and Indigenous ingredients like salmon, seaweed, and acorns (listen to her episode). Because the talk was in Boston, we wanted to acknowledge that Massachusetts is the original land of the Wampanoag, who have called this region home for more than 10,000 years. Angela C. Marcellino, a member of the present-day Mashpee Wampanoag tribe, joined us on stage to share a brief history, and today we're going deeper. Angela is a chef, historian, and author of The True Natives of Cape Cod, Massachusetts and Their Food Ways. In this in-depth episode, Angela shares the real story of the original Pilgrim-Wampanoag encounter, how her tribe has retained and expanded its culture, and the best ways that travelers can engage respectfully. In this episode, you'll learn The true history of the Wampanoag-Pilgrim encounter and Squanto's role in American history How Harvard University's 1650 charter was originally dedicated to educating Wampanoag children Why the Mashpee became realtors to protect their ancestral lands How ancient foodways and communal cooking traditions keep the Mashpee culture alive today The 30-year journey to federal recognition and what sovereignty means for the tribe Meet this week's guest Angela C. Marcellino, chef, historian, and author of The True Natives of Cape Cod, Massachusetts and Their Food Ways Resources Learn about the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and visit their cultural center Jesse Little Doe's MacArthur Award-winning work revitalizing the Wampanoag language The Old Indian Meeting House, one of the oldest congregations in America Don't miss these moments [02:00] Angela's unexpected career path: from tribal grant management to real estate—and why land ownership matters [04:00] The shocking story of Indian districts and forced assimilation in Massachusetts [07:00] Why the Pilgrims really came to America (hint: it wasn't just religious freedom) [09:00] Squanto's heartbreaking return to find Pilgrim houses on his village's footprints [13:00] How the Mashpee church became a center for political resistance [15:00] The 1970s development boom that changed everything for the Mashpee [19:00] Coming home to Mashpee: communal living and 10,000-year-old recipes Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 21 Nov 2025 23:37:00 -0000 bonus Afar This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week we hosted Unpacked Live, a—you guessed it—live version of the podcast in partnership with Visit California in Boston, Massachusetts. (You can ⁠watch the full conversation on YouTube⁠.) The event celebrated California's diverse Native communities, and host Aislyn Greene was joined on stage by John Acuna, a Hoopa Valley tribal member and Klamath River kayak guide (listen to his episode), and Christina Lonewolf Martinez, a private chef based in Monterey uniting the worlds of fine-dining and Indigenous ingredients like salmon, seaweed, and acorns (listen to her episode). Because the talk was in Boston, we wanted to acknowledge that Massachusetts is the original land of the Wampanoag, who have called this region home for more than 10,000 years. Angela C. Marcellino, a member of the present-day Mashpee Wampanoag tribe, joined us on stage to share a brief history, and today we're going deeper. Angela is a chef, historian, and author of The True Natives of Cape Cod, Massachusetts and Their Food Ways. In this in-depth episode, Angela shares the real story of the original Pilgrim-Wampanoag encounter, how her tribe has retained and expanded its culture, and the best ways that travelers can engage respectfully. In this episode, you'll learn The true history of the Wampanoag-Pilgrim encounter and Squanto's role in American history How Harvard University's 1650 charter was originally dedicated to educating Wampanoag children Why the Mashpee became realtors to protect their ancestral lands How ancient foodways and communal cooking traditions keep the Mashpee culture alive today The 30-year journey to federal recognition and what sovereignty means for the tribe Meet this week's guest Angela C. Marcellino, chef, historian, and author of The True Natives of Cape Cod, Massachusetts and Their Food Ways Resources Learn about the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and visit their cultural center Jesse Little Doe's MacArthur Award-winning work revitalizing the Wampanoag language The Old Indian Meeting House, one of the oldest congregations in America Don't miss these moments [02:00] Angela's unexpected career path: from tribal grant management to real estate—and why land ownership matters [04:00] The shocking story of Indian districts and forced assimilation in Massachusetts [07:00] Why the Pilgrims really came to America (hint: it wasn't just religious freedom) [09:00] Squanto's heartbreaking return to find Pilgrim houses on his village's footprints [13:00] How the Mashpee church became a center for political resistance [15:00] The 1970s development boom that changed everything for the Mashpee [19:00] Coming home to Mashpee: communal living and 10,000-year-old recipes Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. This week we hosted Unpacked Live, a—you guessed it—live version of the podcast in partnership with Visit California in Boston, Massachusetts. (You can ⁠watch the full conversation on YouTube⁠.)

    The event celebrated California's diverse Native communities, and host Aislyn Greene was joined on stage by John Acuna, a Hoopa Valley tribal member and Klamath River kayak guide (listen to his episode), and Christina Lonewolf Martinez, a private chef based in Monterey uniting the worlds of fine-dining and Indigenous ingredients like salmon, seaweed, and acorns (listen to her episode).


    Because the talk was in Boston, we wanted to acknowledge that Massachusetts is the original land of the Wampanoag, who have called this region home for more than 10,000 years. Angela C. Marcellino, a member of the present-day Mashpee Wampanoag tribe, joined us on stage to share a brief history, and today we're going deeper.

    Angela is a chef, historian, and author of The True Natives of Cape Cod, Massachusetts and Their Food Ways. In this in-depth episode, Angela shares the real story of the original Pilgrim-Wampanoag encounter, how her tribe has retained and expanded its culture, and the best ways that travelers can engage respectfully.


    In this episode, you'll learn

    • The true history of the Wampanoag-Pilgrim encounter and Squanto's role in American history
    • How Harvard University's 1650 charter was originally dedicated to educating Wampanoag children
    • Why the Mashpee became realtors to protect their ancestral lands
    • How ancient foodways and communal cooking traditions keep the Mashpee culture alive today
    • The 30-year journey to federal recognition and what sovereignty means for the tribe

    Meet this week's guest

    Resources

    Don't miss these moments

    • [02:00] Angela's unexpected career path: from tribal grant management to real estate—and why land ownership matters
    • [04:00] The shocking story of Indian districts and forced assimilation in Massachusetts
    • [07:00] Why the Pilgrims really came to America (hint: it wasn't just religious freedom)
    • [09:00] Squanto's heartbreaking return to find Pilgrim houses on his village's footprints
    • [13:00] How the Mashpee church became a center for political resistance
    • [15:00] The 1970s development boom that changed everything for the Mashpee
    • [19:00] Coming home to Mashpee: communal living and 10,000-year-old recipes

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2331 no     What California’s Klamath River Revival Means for Travelers  This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. Because this week we hosted Unpacked Live, a—you guessed it—live version of the podcast in partnership with Visit California in Boston, Massachusetts. (You can watch the full conversation on YouTube.) In 2022, Visit California launched Visit Native California, and the goal with the Boston live event was to celebrate California's diverse tribal communities. Unpacked host Aislyn Greene was joined onstage by John Acuna, a member of the Hoopa Valley Tribe in Humboldt County, California, and a river guide with Rios to Rivers and Paddle Tribal Waters. In July, 2025, shortly after the Klamath River was undammed—the largest dam removal project in U.S. history—John helped guide a historic 30-day expedition down the Klamath River, known as the First Descent. On stage, John shared the Klamath River's history and what it was like to spend 30 days kayaking a river that has been so essential to the West Coast Native communities and was for so long diverted and quite literally drained of life. In this episode, we go deeper. John shares his early life, how he found his way back to the water, and the lessons he's learned after spending so many years on the river. He also explains how cultural stewardship, land‑back efforts, and Indigenous fire and river knowledge are reshaping landscapes and communities across Northern California. In this episode, you’ll learn How John’s childhood and early work as a firefighter led him to river guiding and youth programs. Why the Klamath and Trinity rivers matter to Indigenous food security, culture, and health. What the Klamath dam removals changed — and how quickly salmon and waterways began to recover. How Paddle Tribal Waters and Rios to Rivers use recreation, mentorship, and cultural practice to rebuild connections for Indigenous youth. Practical ways travelers and listeners can support tribal‑led stewardship and community‑based guiding. Don’t miss these moments [02:00] — John introduces his community kayak fleet (15 boats) [18:00] — John’s first rafting expedition and the job offer that changed his life [55:30] — Sendoff ceremony at the Wood River headwaters (prayer roots, blessings) [59:30] — Open-lake challenge: wind, waves, and seasickness on early days [01:03:00] — Ikes Falls: a sacred portage and a transformative whitewater run [01:13:30] — Salmon spotted upstream; surprisingly fast ecological rebound [01:20:30] — Cultural burning and prescribed fire: returning Indigenous stewardship to the landscape [01:23:00] — “Tread water” tattoo story — resilience and metaphor Meet this episode’s guest John Acuna — Hoopa River guide, former firefighter, Paddle Tribal Waters leader, instructor with Rios to Rivers Resources mentioned in the episode Rios to Rivers Paddle Tribal Waters (project of Rios to Rivers) Warrior Institute Redwoods & Rivers guide school Hoopa Valley Tribe Yurok Tribe How to support Donate to Rios to Rivers or similar Indigenous-led river programs. Book community-based guides and ethical local tour services when visiting tribal territories, such as  the Beaver Creek Guide Service, which offers fishing charters along with education. Explore our coverage (like this story) on afar.com.  Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 20 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0000 bonus Afar  This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. Because this week we hosted Unpacked Live, a—you guessed it—live version of the podcast in partnership with Visit California in Boston, Massachusetts. (You can watch the full conversation on YouTube.) In 2022, Visit California launched Visit Native California, and the goal with the Boston live event was to celebrate California's diverse tribal communities. Unpacked host Aislyn Greene was joined onstage by John Acuna, a member of the Hoopa Valley Tribe in Humboldt County, California, and a river guide with Rios to Rivers and Paddle Tribal Waters. In July, 2025, shortly after the Klamath River was undammed—the largest dam removal project in U.S. history—John helped guide a historic 30-day expedition down the Klamath River, known as the First Descent. On stage, John shared the Klamath River's history and what it was like to spend 30 days kayaking a river that has been so essential to the West Coast Native communities and was for so long diverted and quite literally drained of life. In this episode, we go deeper. John shares his early life, how he found his way back to the water, and the lessons he's learned after spending so many years on the river. He also explains how cultural stewardship, land‑back efforts, and Indigenous fire and river knowledge are reshaping landscapes and communities across Northern California. In this episode, you’ll learn How John’s childhood and early work as a firefighter led him to river guiding and youth programs. Why the Klamath and Trinity rivers matter to Indigenous food security, culture, and health. What the Klamath dam removals changed — and how quickly salmon and waterways began to recover. How Paddle Tribal Waters and Rios to Rivers use recreation, mentorship, and cultural practice to rebuild connections for Indigenous youth. Practical ways travelers and listeners can support tribal‑led stewardship and community‑based guiding. Don’t miss these moments [02:00] — John introduces his community kayak fleet (15 boats) [18:00] — John’s first rafting expedition and the job offer that changed his life [55:30] — Sendoff ceremony at the Wood River headwaters (prayer roots, blessings) [59:30] — Open-lake challenge: wind, waves, and seasickness on early days [01:03:00] — Ikes Falls: a sacred portage and a transformative whitewater run [01:13:30] — Salmon spotted upstream; surprisingly fast ecological rebound [01:20:30] — Cultural burning and prescribed fire: returning Indigenous stewardship to the landscape [01:23:00] — “Tread water” tattoo story — resilience and metaphor Meet this episode’s guest John Acuna — Hoopa River guide, former firefighter, Paddle Tribal Waters leader, instructor with Rios to Rivers Resources mentioned in the episode Rios to Rivers Paddle Tribal Waters (project of Rios to Rivers) Warrior Institute Redwoods & Rivers guide school Hoopa Valley Tribe Yurok Tribe How to support Donate to Rios to Rivers or similar Indigenous-led river programs. Book community-based guides and ethical local tour services when visiting tribal territories, such as  the Beaver Creek Guide Service, which offers fishing charters along with education. Explore our coverage (like this story) on afar.com.  Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices  This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. Because this week we hosted Unpacked Live, a—you guessed it—live version of the podcast in partnership with Visit California in Boston, Massachusetts. (You can watch the full conversation on YouTube.)

    In 2022, Visit California launched Visit Native California, and the goal with the Boston live event was to celebrate California's diverse tribal communities. Unpacked host Aislyn Greene was joined onstage by John Acuna, a member of the Hoopa Valley Tribe in Humboldt County, California, and a river guide with Rios to Rivers and Paddle Tribal Waters.

    In July, 2025, shortly after the Klamath River was undammed—the largest dam removal project in U.S. history—John helped guide a historic 30-day expedition down the Klamath River, known as the First Descent.

    On stage, John shared the Klamath River's history and what it was like to spend 30 days kayaking a river that has been so essential to the West Coast Native communities and was for so long diverted and quite literally drained of life.

    In this episode, we go deeper. John shares his early life, how he found his way back to the water, and the lessons he's learned after spending so many years on the river. He also explains how cultural stewardship, land‑back efforts, and Indigenous fire and river knowledge are reshaping landscapes and communities across Northern California.

    In this episode, you’ll learn

    • How John’s childhood and early work as a firefighter led him to river guiding and youth programs.

    • Why the Klamath and Trinity rivers matter to Indigenous food security, culture, and health.

    • What the Klamath dam removals changed — and how quickly salmon and waterways began to recover.

    • How Paddle Tribal Waters and Rios to Rivers use recreation, mentorship, and cultural practice to rebuild connections for Indigenous youth.

    • Practical ways travelers and listeners can support tribal‑led stewardship and community‑based guiding.

    Don’t miss these moments

    • [02:00] — John introduces his community kayak fleet (15 boats)

    • [18:00] — John’s first rafting expedition and the job offer that changed his life

    • [55:30] — Sendoff ceremony at the Wood River headwaters (prayer roots, blessings)

    • [59:30] — Open-lake challenge: wind, waves, and seasickness on early days

    • [01:03:00] — Ikes Falls: a sacred portage and a transformative whitewater run

    • [01:13:30] — Salmon spotted upstream; surprisingly fast ecological rebound

    • [01:20:30] — Cultural burning and prescribed fire: returning Indigenous stewardship to the landscape

    • [01:23:00] — “Tread water” tattoo story — resilience and metaphor

    Meet this episode’s guest

    • John Acuna — Hoopa River guide, former firefighter, Paddle Tribal Waters leader, instructor with Rios to Rivers

    Resources mentioned in the episode

    How to support

    • Donate to Rios to Rivers or similar Indigenous-led river programs.

    • Book community-based guides and ethical local tour services when visiting tribal territories, such as  the Beaver Creek Guide Service, which offers fishing charters along with education.

    • Explore our coverage (like this story) on afar.com. 

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2990 no     How Ancient Food Traditions Shape California Cuisine Today This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. Because this week we hosted Unpacked Live, a—you guessed it—live version of the podcast in partnership with Visit California in Boston, Massachusetts. (You can ⁠watch the full conversation on YouTube⁠.) In 2022, Visit California launched Visit Native California, and the goal with the Boston live event was to celebrate California's diverse Native communities. Unpacked host Aislyn Greene was joined onstage by Christina Lonewolf Martinez, a Monterey-based private chef and founder of Chieftess Monterey Bay, who is reintroducing Indigenous ingredients and practices to California’s central coast.  On stage, Christina shared her early life and how working with local Central Coast tribes like the Esselen people, she is reviving and celebrating Indigenous ingredients like acorn flour and seaweed—and using her fine-dining training to bring them to life in brilliant new ways.  In this episode, we go deeper. Christina shares more of her family’s background, the Central Coast’s Indigenous foodways and living traditions, and where she loves to eat on a rare day off.  In this episode, you’ll learn How Christina’s Mexican and Indigenous family roots shaped her earliest food memories and led her into professional kitchens What “re‑Americanizing” American food looks like when Indigenous ingredients become the centerpiece The labor and ritual behind processing acorns and how acorn flour tastes and performs in dishes How Christina collaborates with local tribal members and community organizations to forage responsibly and honor place Don’t miss these moments [02:10] Watching a grandmother’s kitchen—where Christina’s food story begins [09:40] From Denny’s to the Post Ranch Inn: the pivot into fine dining and foraging [14:50] The first encounter with acorn blinis at Post Ranch and why acorns matter today [23:30] Planning and performing the Chieftess table at Big Sur Food & Wine [26:10] The Salmon People amuse: sea grapes, smoked salmon, and a river rock presentation [33:00] Favorite local escapes: Point Lobos, Esalen hot springs, and Carmel Valley river picnics Meet this week’s guest Christina Lonewolf Martinez, private chef and founder of Chiefess Monterey Bay Resources Chieftess Monterey Bay — find pop‑ups, private dinner info, and event listings Esselen Tribe — local tribal resources and cultural context Big Sur Food & Wine — festival details and past programming Explore Afar’s coverage of Big Sur and the Central Coast Where Christina eats, drinks, and takes visitors Alta Bakery Ad Astra Bread Co Carmel Valley Creamery Stokes Adobe Cella Monterey Hacienda Hay & Feed Esalen Institute  How to engage  Christina offers pop-ups via her Instagram account. Check out Three Sisters garden and seed‑saving workshops (community colleges and local organizations) with Rowen White Watch for college demos at Cabrillo College and UC Santa Cruz  Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 20 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0000 bonus Afar This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. Because this week we hosted Unpacked Live, a—you guessed it—live version of the podcast in partnership with Visit California in Boston, Massachusetts. (You can ⁠watch the full conversation on YouTube⁠.) In 2022, Visit California launched Visit Native California, and the goal with the Boston live event was to celebrate California's diverse Native communities. Unpacked host Aislyn Greene was joined onstage by Christina Lonewolf Martinez, a Monterey-based private chef and founder of Chieftess Monterey Bay, who is reintroducing Indigenous ingredients and practices to California’s central coast.  On stage, Christina shared her early life and how working with local Central Coast tribes like the Esselen people, she is reviving and celebrating Indigenous ingredients like acorn flour and seaweed—and using her fine-dining training to bring them to life in brilliant new ways.  In this episode, we go deeper. Christina shares more of her family’s background, the Central Coast’s Indigenous foodways and living traditions, and where she loves to eat on a rare day off.  In this episode, you’ll learn How Christina’s Mexican and Indigenous family roots shaped her earliest food memories and led her into professional kitchens What “re‑Americanizing” American food looks like when Indigenous ingredients become the centerpiece The labor and ritual behind processing acorns and how acorn flour tastes and performs in dishes How Christina collaborates with local tribal members and community organizations to forage responsibly and honor place Don’t miss these moments [02:10] Watching a grandmother’s kitchen—where Christina’s food story begins [09:40] From Denny’s to the Post Ranch Inn: the pivot into fine dining and foraging [14:50] The first encounter with acorn blinis at Post Ranch and why acorns matter today [23:30] Planning and performing the Chieftess table at Big Sur Food & Wine [26:10] The Salmon People amuse: sea grapes, smoked salmon, and a river rock presentation [33:00] Favorite local escapes: Point Lobos, Esalen hot springs, and Carmel Valley river picnics Meet this week’s guest Christina Lonewolf Martinez, private chef and founder of Chiefess Monterey Bay Resources Chieftess Monterey Bay — find pop‑ups, private dinner info, and event listings Esselen Tribe — local tribal resources and cultural context Big Sur Food & Wine — festival details and past programming Explore Afar’s coverage of Big Sur and the Central Coast Where Christina eats, drinks, and takes visitors Alta Bakery Ad Astra Bread Co Carmel Valley Creamery Stokes Adobe Cella Monterey Hacienda Hay & Feed Esalen Institute  How to engage  Christina offers pop-ups via her Instagram account. Check out Three Sisters garden and seed‑saving workshops (community colleges and local organizations) with Rowen White Watch for college demos at Cabrillo College and UC Santa Cruz  Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a very special episode of Unpacked by Afar. Because this week we hosted Unpacked Live, a—you guessed it—live version of the podcast in partnership with Visit California in Boston, Massachusetts. (You can ⁠watch the full conversation on YouTube⁠.)

    In 2022, Visit California launched Visit Native California, and the goal with the Boston live event was to celebrate California's diverse Native communities. Unpacked host Aislyn Greene was joined onstage by Christina Lonewolf Martinez, a Monterey-based private chef and founder of Chieftess Monterey Bay, who is reintroducing Indigenous ingredients and practices to California’s central coast. 

    On stage, Christina shared her early life and how working with local Central Coast tribes like the Esselen people, she is reviving and celebrating Indigenous ingredients like acorn flour and seaweed—and using her fine-dining training to bring them to life in brilliant new ways. 

    In this episode, we go deeper. Christina shares more of her family’s background, the Central Coast’s Indigenous foodways and living traditions, and where she loves to eat on a rare day off. 

    In this episode, you’ll learn

    • How Christina’s Mexican and Indigenous family roots shaped her earliest food memories and led her into professional kitchens

    • What “re‑Americanizing” American food looks like when Indigenous ingredients become the centerpiece

    • The labor and ritual behind processing acorns and how acorn flour tastes and performs in dishes

    • How Christina collaborates with local tribal members and community organizations to forage responsibly and honor place

    Don’t miss these moments

    • [02:10] Watching a grandmother’s kitchen—where Christina’s food story begins

    • [09:40] From Denny’s to the Post Ranch Inn: the pivot into fine dining and foraging

    • [14:50] The first encounter with acorn blinis at Post Ranch and why acorns matter today

    • [23:30] Planning and performing the Chieftess table at Big Sur Food & Wine

    • [26:10] The Salmon People amuse: sea grapes, smoked salmon, and a river rock presentation

    • [33:00] Favorite local escapes: Point Lobos, Esalen hot springs, and Carmel Valley river picnics

    Meet this week’s guest

    Resources

    Where Christina eats, drinks, and takes visitors

    How to engage 

    • Christina offers pop-ups via her Instagram account.

    • Check out Three Sisters garden and seed‑saving workshops (community colleges and local organizations) with Rowen White

    • Watch for college demos at Cabrillo College and UC Santa Cruz 

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2778 no     To Understand the Soul of This Southern City, Head for the Water In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city’s deeper currents. Up first: To really get to know Charleston, you must spend time on its water ways. Aislyn heads out for a pre-dawn paddle, hunts for Ice Age fossils alongside Charleston’s Indiana Jones, and explores one of the most pristine marine parks on the East Coast—making new friends along the way (the human kind and the animal kind).  And be sure to come back next week, when we dive into Charleston’s legendary food scene. In this episode, you’ll learn —The history and geology of Shem Creek —Why Morris Island is such a legendary place for fossils—and what it takes to find the good stuff.  —The moody, remote magic of Bulls Island—home to Boneyard Beach—and what it’s like to cruise through the pristine Cape Romain, one of only three Class I Wilderness Area’s in the United Sates.   —Charleston’s diverse marine life, from oyster-eating birds to dolphins with a unique way to create their very own seafood buffet.  —The best marine wilderness tours to go deeper into Charleston’s aquatic history and landscape.  Don’t miss these moments*  *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising.  Recreate these experiences Join Coastal Expeditions, where founder Chris Crolley and his team of fellow naturalists aim to “connect Earthlings with Earth.” Take a ferry to Bulls Island, an uninhabited barrier island; join a kayak tour from their Shem Creek headquarters; or tour Charleston's blackwaters. And be sure to check out the nonprofit Coastal Expeditions Foundation, which supports kids who would otherwise not have access to the marine world opportunity to spend time on and with the water, among other efforts.  Paddle with Nature Adventures, which offers kayak and paddleboard tours, as well as kayak and paddleobard rentals for those who want to explore solo. Co-owner Ben-Jamin Toy also runs On Purpose Adventures, a team-building and bonding company.  Explore with Charleston Outdoor Adventures, which offers its frequent Morris Island fossil tour as well as oyster farm visits, Outer Banks film location tours, and fishing charters. Owner Joe Lott founded the business in 2009 and offers year-round exploration. Resources  Read the transcript of the episode.  Plan your trip to Charleston using our guides and stories on afar.com Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:25:00 -0000 bonus Afar In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city’s deeper currents. Up first: To really get to know Charleston, you must spend time on its water ways. Aislyn heads out for a pre-dawn paddle, hunts for Ice Age fossils alongside Charleston’s Indiana Jones, and explores one of the most pristine marine parks on the East Coast—making new friends along the way (the human kind and the animal kind).  And be sure to come back next week, when we dive into Charleston’s legendary food scene. In this episode, you’ll learn —The history and geology of Shem Creek —Why Morris Island is such a legendary place for fossils—and what it takes to find the good stuff.  —The moody, remote magic of Bulls Island—home to Boneyard Beach—and what it’s like to cruise through the pristine Cape Romain, one of only three Class I Wilderness Area’s in the United Sates.   —Charleston’s diverse marine life, from oyster-eating birds to dolphins with a unique way to create their very own seafood buffet.  —The best marine wilderness tours to go deeper into Charleston’s aquatic history and landscape.  Don’t miss these moments*  *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising.  Recreate these experiences Join Coastal Expeditions, where founder Chris Crolley and his team of fellow naturalists aim to “connect Earthlings with Earth.” Take a ferry to Bulls Island, an uninhabited barrier island; join a kayak tour from their Shem Creek headquarters; or tour Charleston's blackwaters. And be sure to check out the nonprofit Coastal Expeditions Foundation, which supports kids who would otherwise not have access to the marine world opportunity to spend time on and with the water, among other efforts.  Paddle with Nature Adventures, which offers kayak and paddleboard tours, as well as kayak and paddleobard rentals for those who want to explore solo. Co-owner Ben-Jamin Toy also runs On Purpose Adventures, a team-building and bonding company.  Explore with Charleston Outdoor Adventures, which offers its frequent Morris Island fossil tour as well as oyster farm visits, Outer Banks film location tours, and fishing charters. Owner Joe Lott founded the business in 2009 and offers year-round exploration. Resources  Read the transcript of the episode.  Plan your trip to Charleston using our guides and stories on afar.com Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this special four-part series, join Unpacked host Aislyn Greene as she travels to Charleston, South Carolina, to unpack the city’s deeper currents.

    Up first: To really get to know Charleston, you must spend time on its water ways. Aislyn heads out for a pre-dawn paddle, hunts for Ice Age fossils alongside Charleston’s Indiana Jones, and explores one of the most pristine marine parks on the East Coast—making new friends along the way (the human kind and the animal kind). 


    And be sure to come back next week, when we dive into Charleston’s legendary food scene.


    In this episode, you’ll learn

    —The history and geology of Shem Creek

    —Why Morris Island is such a legendary place for fossils—and what it takes to find the good stuff. 

    —The moody, remote magic of Bulls Island—home to Boneyard Beach—and what it’s like to cruise through the pristine Cape Romain, one of only three Class I Wilderness Area’s in the United Sates.  

    —Charleston’s diverse marine life, from oyster-eating birds to dolphins with a unique way to create their very own seafood buffet. 

    —The best marine wilderness tours to go deeper into Charleston’s aquatic history and landscape. 

    Don’t miss these moments* 









    *Time stamps are estimated and may change due to programmatic advertising. 

    Recreate these experiences

    • Join Coastal Expeditions, where founder Chris Crolley and his team of fellow naturalists aim to “connect Earthlings with Earth.” Take a ferry to Bulls Island, an uninhabited barrier island; join a kayak tour from their Shem Creek headquarters; or tour Charleston's blackwaters. And be sure to check out the nonprofit Coastal Expeditions Foundation, which supports kids who would otherwise not have access to the marine world opportunity to spend time on and with the water, among other efforts. 
    • Paddle with Nature Adventures, which offers kayak and paddleboard tours, as well as kayak and paddleobard rentals for those who want to explore solo. Co-owner Ben-Jamin Toy also runs On Purpose Adventures, a team-building and bonding company. 
    • Explore with Charleston Outdoor Adventures, which offers its frequent Morris Island fossil tour as well as oyster farm visits, Outer Banks film location tours, and fishing charters. Owner Joe Lott founded the business in 2009 and offers year-round exploration.


    Resources 

    • Read the transcript of the episode. 
    • Plan your trip to Charleston using our guides and stories on afar.com

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2113 no     The World's Best Cities List Is Out. Here's How They Actually Pick Winners How do you determine what makes a great city? This week on Unpacked, Afar editor at large Laura Dannen Redman sits down with Chris Fair, president and CEO of Resonance Consultancy, to unpack the firm’s annual World's Best Cities ranking. Chris explains how the list measures livability, lovability, and prosperity; the UK city that still tops the chart; the methodology changes that reshaped the top 100; and what the ranking means for overtourism, climate risk, and destination marketing. In this episode you’ll learn How Resonance measures a city’s livability, lovability, and prosperity The two cities that remain neck and neck at the top of the list Which cities climbed or slipped after switching data sources from TripAdvisor to Google Maps The perception gap between measured performance and global awareness, with Sao Paulo as a case study How climate risk and resilience are starting to factor into city rankings Don’t miss these moments [00:03:00] How the ranking began as a consulting tool and evolved into a public benchmark [00:08:00] The top 10 cities, revealed [00:10:00] Why switching from TripAdvisor to Google Maps changed the makeup of the top 100 [00:11:00] Sao Paulo’s rise in lovability and the perception gap in Ipsos survey results [00:16:00] The emerging role of climate risk and resilience in city rankings [00:20:00] The challenge of destination concentration and how only a handful of places capture most traveler interest [00:23:00] Vancouver’s spot at 41 and what it reveals about livability versus prosperity Meet this episode’s guests Laura Dannen Redman, Afar editor at large Chris Fair, president and CEO, Resonance Consultancy Resources Read the full World's Best Cities report at WorldsBestCities.comExplore Afar’s coverage of the World's Best Cities List Read about the WrldCity Forum, hosted by Resonance If you’re interested in small city rankings or regional lists, check Resonance’s Americas and Europe city reports Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:15:00 -0000 full Afar How do you determine what makes a great city? This week on Unpacked, Afar editor at large Laura Dannen Redman sits down with Chris Fair, president and CEO of Resonance Consultancy, to unpack the firm’s annual World's Best Cities ranking. Chris explains how the list measures livability, lovability, and prosperity; the UK city that still tops the chart; the methodology changes that reshaped the top 100; and what the ranking means for overtourism, climate risk, and destination marketing. In this episode you’ll learn How Resonance measures a city’s livability, lovability, and prosperity The two cities that remain neck and neck at the top of the list Which cities climbed or slipped after switching data sources from TripAdvisor to Google Maps The perception gap between measured performance and global awareness, with Sao Paulo as a case study How climate risk and resilience are starting to factor into city rankings Don’t miss these moments [00:03:00] How the ranking began as a consulting tool and evolved into a public benchmark [00:08:00] The top 10 cities, revealed [00:10:00] Why switching from TripAdvisor to Google Maps changed the makeup of the top 100 [00:11:00] Sao Paulo’s rise in lovability and the perception gap in Ipsos survey results [00:16:00] The emerging role of climate risk and resilience in city rankings [00:20:00] The challenge of destination concentration and how only a handful of places capture most traveler interest [00:23:00] Vancouver’s spot at 41 and what it reveals about livability versus prosperity Meet this episode’s guests Laura Dannen Redman, Afar editor at large Chris Fair, president and CEO, Resonance Consultancy Resources Read the full World's Best Cities report at WorldsBestCities.comExplore Afar’s coverage of the World's Best Cities List Read about the WrldCity Forum, hosted by Resonance If you’re interested in small city rankings or regional lists, check Resonance’s Americas and Europe city reports Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How do you determine what makes a great city? This week on Unpacked, Afar editor at large Laura Dannen Redman sits down with Chris Fair, president and CEO of Resonance Consultancy, to unpack the firm’s annual World's Best Cities ranking.

    Chris explains how the list measures livability, lovability, and prosperity; the UK city that still tops the chart; the methodology changes that reshaped the top 100; and what the ranking means for overtourism, climate risk, and destination marketing.

    In this episode you’ll learn

    • How Resonance measures a city’s livability, lovability, and prosperity

    • The two cities that remain neck and neck at the top of the list

    • Which cities climbed or slipped after switching data sources from TripAdvisor to Google Maps

    • The perception gap between measured performance and global awareness, with Sao Paulo as a case study

    • How climate risk and resilience are starting to factor into city rankings

    Don’t miss these moments

    • [00:03:00] How the ranking began as a consulting tool and evolved into a public benchmark

    • [00:08:00] The top 10 cities, revealed

    • [00:10:00] Why switching from TripAdvisor to Google Maps changed the makeup of the top 100

    • [00:11:00] Sao Paulo’s rise in lovability and the perception gap in Ipsos survey results

    • [00:16:00] The emerging role of climate risk and resilience in city rankings

    • [00:20:00] The challenge of destination concentration and how only a handful of places capture most traveler interest

    • [00:23:00] Vancouver’s spot at 41 and what it reveals about livability versus prosperity

    Meet this episode’s guests

    Resources

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2249 no      "The Amazon at Night Is Dolby Sound"—What It’s Like to Visit Peru as a Blind Traveler Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of ⁠Afar magazine⁠, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips. In the final episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine LaGrave speaks with Ryan Knighton, a memoirist, screenwriter, surfer, and Afar contributing writer, about his first trip to Peru with Intrepid Travel. Blind since his late teens, Ryan reflects on orchestral nights in the Amazon, the terrifying thrill of canopy rope bridges, and why tactile histories — from Incan pebble counting to khipu knot records — stayed with him long after he left Machu Picchu. On this episode you'll learn How a blind traveler experiences the Amazon’s soundscape and why a night in the Amazon became the trip’s standout moment What the canopy walk felt like and why tactile, sensory experiences mattered more than famous vistas The Incan tactile systems Ryan encountered and why those discoveries resonated with him personally How group travel reshaped Ryan’s experience and turned strangers into a supportive traveling “tribe” Don't miss these moments [3:23] Ryan describing the Amazon at night and its “Dolby” soundscape [6:25] The first step onto a high canopy rope bridge and the trust it required [8:49] Reflections on Machu Picchu, expectations, and why some bucket-list sites land differently for different travelers [13:46] The guide’s tactile pebble-and-grid demonstration of Incan counting systems [20:29] How group dynamics transformed the trip into a shared, memorable experience Resources Read Ryan Knighton’s Afar story about Peru Learn more about Intrepid Travel Take This Trip Contributing writer Ryan Knighton joined Intrepid Travel on its nine-day “Premium Peru” trip, which visits Lima, the Amazon, Cuzco, and Machu Picchu. On the ground, meals, transport, accommodation, and luggage and airport transfers are included. Travel dates for 2025, 2026, and 2027 are available at intrepidtravel.com. From $4,600 per person. Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 05 Nov 2025 08:01:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of ⁠Afar magazine⁠, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips. In the final episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine LaGrave speaks with Ryan Knighton, a memoirist, screenwriter, surfer, and Afar contributing writer, about his first trip to Peru with Intrepid Travel. Blind since his late teens, Ryan reflects on orchestral nights in the Amazon, the terrifying thrill of canopy rope bridges, and why tactile histories — from Incan pebble counting to khipu knot records — stayed with him long after he left Machu Picchu. On this episode you'll learn How a blind traveler experiences the Amazon’s soundscape and why a night in the Amazon became the trip’s standout moment What the canopy walk felt like and why tactile, sensory experiences mattered more than famous vistas The Incan tactile systems Ryan encountered and why those discoveries resonated with him personally How group travel reshaped Ryan’s experience and turned strangers into a supportive traveling “tribe” Don't miss these moments [3:23] Ryan describing the Amazon at night and its “Dolby” soundscape [6:25] The first step onto a high canopy rope bridge and the trust it required [8:49] Reflections on Machu Picchu, expectations, and why some bucket-list sites land differently for different travelers [13:46] The guide’s tactile pebble-and-grid demonstration of Incan counting systems [20:29] How group dynamics transformed the trip into a shared, memorable experience Resources Read Ryan Knighton’s Afar story about Peru Learn more about Intrepid Travel Take This Trip Contributing writer Ryan Knighton joined Intrepid Travel on its nine-day “Premium Peru” trip, which visits Lima, the Amazon, Cuzco, and Machu Picchu. On the ground, meals, transport, accommodation, and luggage and airport transfers are included. Travel dates for 2025, 2026, and 2027 are available at intrepidtravel.com. From $4,600 per person. Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of ⁠Afar magazine⁠, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips.

    In the final episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine LaGrave speaks with Ryan Knighton, a memoirist, screenwriter, surfer, and Afar contributing writer, about his first trip to Peru with Intrepid Travel.

    Blind since his late teens, Ryan reflects on orchestral nights in the Amazon, the terrifying thrill of canopy rope bridges, and why tactile histories — from Incan pebble counting to khipu knot records — stayed with him long after he left Machu Picchu.

    On this episode you'll learn

    • How a blind traveler experiences the Amazon’s soundscape and why a night in the Amazon became the trip’s standout moment

    • What the canopy walk felt like and why tactile, sensory experiences mattered more than famous vistas

    • The Incan tactile systems Ryan encountered and why those discoveries resonated with him personally

    • How group travel reshaped Ryan’s experience and turned strangers into a supportive traveling “tribe”

    Don't miss these moments

    • [3:23] Ryan describing the Amazon at night and its “Dolby” soundscape

    • [6:25] The first step onto a high canopy rope bridge and the trust it required

      [8:49] Reflections on Machu Picchu, expectations, and why some bucket-list sites land differently for different travelers

    • [13:46] The guide’s tactile pebble-and-grid demonstration of Incan counting systems

    • [20:29] How group dynamics transformed the trip into a shared, memorable experience

    Resources

    Take This Trip

    Contributing writer Ryan Knighton joined Intrepid Travel on its nine-day “Premium Peru” trip, which visits Lima, the Amazon, Cuzco, and Machu Picchu. On the ground, meals, transport, accommodation, and luggage and airport transfers are included. Travel dates for 2025, 2026, and 2027 are available at intrepidtravel.com. From $4,600 per person.


    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1992 no     In Botswana, Tracking Lions and Elephants—By Bike Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of Afar magazine, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips. In the third episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine La Grave speaks with Afar contributor Chris Colin about his first safari — a family trip through Botswana that mixed biking, Land Cruisers, salt pans, and intimate wildlife encounters. Chris describes the sensory moments that changed how he pays attention, the guides who opened the landscape to his family, and the small-scale wonders (including an antlion and a near-miss with a cobra) that stayed with him long after the trip. In this episode you’ll learn Why Botswana’s slower pace and fewer vehicles make it a different kind of safari How biking through the bush reveals small-scale wildlife moments you won’t see from a Land Cruiser Practical travel advice for families and first-time safari-goers (how to slow down, pack flexibly, and read local history) How local guides turn instincts and small signs into unforgettable wildlife sightings Don’t miss these moments Opening conversation on why Botswana felt like the right first safari Riding on elephant trails with a bike-supported vehicle nearby The antlion pit: a small, gruesome, unforgettable predator encounter Lying on the salt pans under a vast African sky and hearing lions roar at dusk A near miss with a massive cobra while answering nature’s call Meet this episode’s guest Chris Colin — Afar contributing writer and the traveler at the center of this episode Take this trip Contributing writer Chris Colin’s eight-day Botswana itinerary was put together by Teresa Sullivan, cofounder of Mango African Safaris, who specializes in family travel. The trip featured a Natural Selection cycling safari into the Makgadikgadi Pans and exploring the Okavango Delta. From $2,444 per person, per day.  Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 29 Oct 2025 20:57:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of Afar magazine, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips. In the third episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine La Grave speaks with Afar contributor Chris Colin about his first safari — a family trip through Botswana that mixed biking, Land Cruisers, salt pans, and intimate wildlife encounters. Chris describes the sensory moments that changed how he pays attention, the guides who opened the landscape to his family, and the small-scale wonders (including an antlion and a near-miss with a cobra) that stayed with him long after the trip. In this episode you’ll learn Why Botswana’s slower pace and fewer vehicles make it a different kind of safari How biking through the bush reveals small-scale wildlife moments you won’t see from a Land Cruiser Practical travel advice for families and first-time safari-goers (how to slow down, pack flexibly, and read local history) How local guides turn instincts and small signs into unforgettable wildlife sightings Don’t miss these moments Opening conversation on why Botswana felt like the right first safari Riding on elephant trails with a bike-supported vehicle nearby The antlion pit: a small, gruesome, unforgettable predator encounter Lying on the salt pans under a vast African sky and hearing lions roar at dusk A near miss with a massive cobra while answering nature’s call Meet this episode’s guest Chris Colin — Afar contributing writer and the traveler at the center of this episode Take this trip Contributing writer Chris Colin’s eight-day Botswana itinerary was put together by Teresa Sullivan, cofounder of Mango African Safaris, who specializes in family travel. The trip featured a Natural Selection cycling safari into the Makgadikgadi Pans and exploring the Okavango Delta. From $2,444 per person, per day.  Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of Afar magazine, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips.

    In the third episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine La Grave speaks with Afar contributor Chris Colin about his first safari — a family trip through Botswana that mixed biking, Land Cruisers, salt pans, and intimate wildlife encounters.

    Chris describes the sensory moments that changed how he pays attention, the guides who opened the landscape to his family, and the small-scale wonders (including an antlion and a near-miss with a cobra) that stayed with him long after the trip.

    In this episode you’ll learn

    • Why Botswana’s slower pace and fewer vehicles make it a different kind of safari

    • How biking through the bush reveals small-scale wildlife moments you won’t see from a Land Cruiser

    • Practical travel advice for families and first-time safari-goers (how to slow down, pack flexibly, and read local history)

    • How local guides turn instincts and small signs into unforgettable wildlife sightings

    Don’t miss these moments

    • Opening conversation on why Botswana felt like the right first safari

    • Riding on elephant trails with a bike-supported vehicle nearby

    • The antlion pit: a small, gruesome, unforgettable predator encounter

    • Lying on the salt pans under a vast African sky and hearing lions roar at dusk

    • A near miss with a massive cobra while answering nature’s call

    Meet this episode’s guest

    • Chris Colin — Afar contributing writer and the traveler at the center of this episode

    Take this trip

    Contributing writer Chris Colin’s eight-day Botswana itinerary was put together by Teresa Sullivan, cofounder of Mango African Safaris, who specializes in family travel. The trip featured a Natural Selection cycling safari into the Makgadikgadi Pans and exploring the Okavango Delta. From $2,444 per person, per day. 

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1361 no     Unpacked, Five Questions: Finding Flow on Canada's Oldest River Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of ⁠Afar magazine⁠, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips. In the second episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine La Grave sits down with journalist Chloe Berge. Chloe spent 13 days paddling 80 miles down Canada's Firth River—one of the country's oldest and most northern rivers—before reaching the Arctic Ocean. This epic journey through Ivvavik National Park combines adventure, science, and deep cultural history in one of the most remote regions on Earth. Chloe shares her experience navigating Class IV rapids, disconnecting completely from the digital world, and standing in ancient Inuit hunting grounds that have been used for thousands of years. She reveals why this unique expedition—which hosts only about 100 visitors annually—serves as the sole opportunity for Parks Canada scientists to collect critical environmental data in this pristine wilderness. On this episode you'll learn: Why Canadian River Expeditions' partnership with Parks Canada makes this the only annual scientific data collection opportunity in the region How two weeks completely off-grid changes your relationship with time and the natural world What makes the Engigstciak mountain one of the most important archaeological sites in Arctic Canada Why the region's unglaciated history during the last ice age created such unique geological formations How paddling expectations versus reality shaped the physical demands of the journey Don't miss these moments: [04:00] Chloe's previous Arctic experiences and what drew her to this inland expedition [06:00] Standing at Engigstciak—an ancient hunting lookout used for thousands of years [08:00] Finding the rhythm of the river and how time becomes less linear in the wilderness [10:00] The immediate sense of remoteness when dropped by bush plane 200 miles from civilization [13:00] The geological wonders that didn't make the story—from glittering quartz pillars to sandstone archways [15:00] Surprising truths about the paddling requirements and physical demands [19:00] The profound mental clarity that comes from two weeks without digital connection Resources Read Chloe's complete Afar feature about paddling the Firth River to the Arctic Ocean Learn more about Canadian River Expeditions and their science-focused Arctic trips Explore Ivvavik National Park and its rich Inuit cultural heritage Follow Chloe Berge for more stories at the intersection of travel, environment, and culture Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 22 Oct 2025 15:59:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of ⁠Afar magazine⁠, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips. In the second episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine La Grave sits down with journalist Chloe Berge. Chloe spent 13 days paddling 80 miles down Canada's Firth River—one of the country's oldest and most northern rivers—before reaching the Arctic Ocean. This epic journey through Ivvavik National Park combines adventure, science, and deep cultural history in one of the most remote regions on Earth. Chloe shares her experience navigating Class IV rapids, disconnecting completely from the digital world, and standing in ancient Inuit hunting grounds that have been used for thousands of years. She reveals why this unique expedition—which hosts only about 100 visitors annually—serves as the sole opportunity for Parks Canada scientists to collect critical environmental data in this pristine wilderness. On this episode you'll learn: Why Canadian River Expeditions' partnership with Parks Canada makes this the only annual scientific data collection opportunity in the region How two weeks completely off-grid changes your relationship with time and the natural world What makes the Engigstciak mountain one of the most important archaeological sites in Arctic Canada Why the region's unglaciated history during the last ice age created such unique geological formations How paddling expectations versus reality shaped the physical demands of the journey Don't miss these moments: [04:00] Chloe's previous Arctic experiences and what drew her to this inland expedition [06:00] Standing at Engigstciak—an ancient hunting lookout used for thousands of years [08:00] Finding the rhythm of the river and how time becomes less linear in the wilderness [10:00] The immediate sense of remoteness when dropped by bush plane 200 miles from civilization [13:00] The geological wonders that didn't make the story—from glittering quartz pillars to sandstone archways [15:00] Surprising truths about the paddling requirements and physical demands [19:00] The profound mental clarity that comes from two weeks without digital connection Resources Read Chloe's complete Afar feature about paddling the Firth River to the Arctic Ocean Learn more about Canadian River Expeditions and their science-focused Arctic trips Explore Ivvavik National Park and its rich Inuit cultural heritage Follow Chloe Berge for more stories at the intersection of travel, environment, and culture Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of ⁠Afar magazine⁠, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips.

    In the second episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine La Grave sits down with journalist Chloe Berge. Chloe spent 13 days paddling 80 miles down Canada's Firth River—one of the country's oldest and most northern rivers—before reaching the Arctic Ocean. This epic journey through Ivvavik National Park combines adventure, science, and deep cultural history in one of the most remote regions on Earth.

    Chloe shares her experience navigating Class IV rapids, disconnecting completely from the digital world, and standing in ancient Inuit hunting grounds that have been used for thousands of years. She reveals why this unique expedition—which hosts only about 100 visitors annually—serves as the sole opportunity for Parks Canada scientists to collect critical environmental data in this pristine wilderness.

    On this episode you'll learn:

    • Why Canadian River Expeditions' partnership with Parks Canada makes this the only annual scientific data collection opportunity in the region
    • How two weeks completely off-grid changes your relationship with time and the natural world
    • What makes the Engigstciak mountain one of the most important archaeological sites in Arctic Canada
    • Why the region's unglaciated history during the last ice age created such unique geological formations
    • How paddling expectations versus reality shaped the physical demands of the journey

    Don't miss these moments:

    • [04:00] Chloe's previous Arctic experiences and what drew her to this inland expedition
    • [06:00] Standing at Engigstciak—an ancient hunting lookout used for thousands of years
    • [08:00] Finding the rhythm of the river and how time becomes less linear in the wilderness
    • [10:00] The immediate sense of remoteness when dropped by bush plane 200 miles from civilization
    • [13:00] The geological wonders that didn't make the story—from glittering quartz pillars to sandstone archways
    • [15:00] Surprising truths about the paddling requirements and physical demands
    • [19:00] The profound mental clarity that comes from two weeks without digital connection

    Resources

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1636 no     Unpacked, Five Questions: A Ski Photographer's Love Letter to the Balkans Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of ⁠Afar magazine⁠, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips. In the first episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine La Grave speaks with photographer Kari Medig. Kari has spent 15 years traveling the world documenting ski culture—from Austria's iconic Hahnenkamm downhill to landlocked Lesotho. But one region has captivated him above all others: the Balkans. Kari shares his journey through Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kosovo, revealing why these mountains—many higher than the Swiss Alps—offer something beyond world-class skiing. He discusses the unbelievable hospitality that keeps bringing him back, his unique analog photography approach using a Hasselblad film camera, and why he seeks out parking lot encounters as much as pristine powder. From a chance morning photo of a ski rental owner in her bathrobe to reconnecting with a Bulgarian café owner a decade later, Kari's stories illuminate how skiing becomes a lens for experiencing culture in its most authentic form. On this episode you'll learn: Why the Balkans' mountains are higher than many expect—and vastly underdeveloped for skiing How "Midwest Kind" isn't the only form of extraordinary hospitality—the Balkans surprised Kari with their warmth Why Kari shot his Balkan trips on film with a single Hasselblad camera instead of modern digital equipment How parking lots and ski rental shops become unexpected locations for the most meaningful photographs What makes skiing a unique way to participate in—not just observe—a culture Don't miss these moments: [02:00] Kari's first trip to Bulgaria in 2004 and his amazement at the scope of the mountains [03:00] The café owner who Kari reconnected with a decade later [05:00] Why Kari uses a Hasselblad film camera for his nostalgic, muted aesthetic [08:00] The ski hill in Bulgaria and why parking lots are Kari's favorite shooting locations [10:00] The last-morning photo of a ski rental owner in her bathrobe that captured the entire trip [12:00] Why people always ask Kari—who grew up skiing in Canada—"Why are you here? You have the best skiing in the world" Resources Explore Kari's complete Afar photo essay about skiing in the Balkans Follow Kari Medig for more ski culture photography Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 15 Oct 2025 07:01:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of ⁠Afar magazine⁠, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips. In the first episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine La Grave speaks with photographer Kari Medig. Kari has spent 15 years traveling the world documenting ski culture—from Austria's iconic Hahnenkamm downhill to landlocked Lesotho. But one region has captivated him above all others: the Balkans. Kari shares his journey through Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kosovo, revealing why these mountains—many higher than the Swiss Alps—offer something beyond world-class skiing. He discusses the unbelievable hospitality that keeps bringing him back, his unique analog photography approach using a Hasselblad film camera, and why he seeks out parking lot encounters as much as pristine powder. From a chance morning photo of a ski rental owner in her bathrobe to reconnecting with a Bulgarian café owner a decade later, Kari's stories illuminate how skiing becomes a lens for experiencing culture in its most authentic form. On this episode you'll learn: Why the Balkans' mountains are higher than many expect—and vastly underdeveloped for skiing How "Midwest Kind" isn't the only form of extraordinary hospitality—the Balkans surprised Kari with their warmth Why Kari shot his Balkan trips on film with a single Hasselblad camera instead of modern digital equipment How parking lots and ski rental shops become unexpected locations for the most meaningful photographs What makes skiing a unique way to participate in—not just observe—a culture Don't miss these moments: [02:00] Kari's first trip to Bulgaria in 2004 and his amazement at the scope of the mountains [03:00] The café owner who Kari reconnected with a decade later [05:00] Why Kari uses a Hasselblad film camera for his nostalgic, muted aesthetic [08:00] The ski hill in Bulgaria and why parking lots are Kari's favorite shooting locations [10:00] The last-morning photo of a ski rental owner in her bathrobe that captured the entire trip [12:00] Why people always ask Kari—who grew up skiing in Canada—"Why are you here? You have the best skiing in the world" Resources Explore Kari's complete Afar photo essay about skiing in the Balkans Follow Kari Medig for more ski culture photography Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked: Five Questions. In honor of our latest issue of ⁠Afar magazine⁠, which focuses on epic trips—the kind of adventures that change your world—we're hearing from the writers and photographers who chronicled and captured those trips.

    In the first episode of the series, host and Afar executive editor Katherine La Grave speaks with photographer Kari Medig. Kari has spent 15 years traveling the world documenting ski culture—from Austria's iconic Hahnenkamm downhill to landlocked Lesotho. But one region has captivated him above all others: the Balkans.

    Kari shares his journey through Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kosovo, revealing why these mountains—many higher than the Swiss Alps—offer something beyond world-class skiing. He discusses the unbelievable hospitality that keeps bringing him back, his unique analog photography approach using a Hasselblad film camera, and why he seeks out parking lot encounters as much as pristine powder.

    From a chance morning photo of a ski rental owner in her bathrobe to reconnecting with a Bulgarian café owner a decade later, Kari's stories illuminate how skiing becomes a lens for experiencing culture in its most authentic form.

    On this episode you'll learn:

    • Why the Balkans' mountains are higher than many expect—and vastly underdeveloped for skiing
    • How "Midwest Kind" isn't the only form of extraordinary hospitality—the Balkans surprised Kari with their warmth
    • Why Kari shot his Balkan trips on film with a single Hasselblad camera instead of modern digital equipment
    • How parking lots and ski rental shops become unexpected locations for the most meaningful photographs
    • What makes skiing a unique way to participate in—not just observe—a culture

    Don't miss these moments:

    • [02:00] Kari's first trip to Bulgaria in 2004 and his amazement at the scope of the mountains
    • [03:00] The café owner who Kari reconnected with a decade later
    • [05:00] Why Kari uses a Hasselblad film camera for his nostalgic, muted aesthetic
    • [08:00] The ski hill in Bulgaria and why parking lots are Kari's favorite shooting locations
    • [10:00] The last-morning photo of a ski rental owner in her bathrobe that captured the entire trip
    • [12:00] Why people always ask Kari—who grew up skiing in Canada—"Why are you here? You have the best skiing in the world"

    Resources

    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1260 no     Replay: The Land of Hot Air Balloons, Heritage Grains, and 300 Days of Sunshine Albuquerque isn't just a stopover—it's a destination where ancient land meets modern vision. On this replay episode of Unpacked, join host Aislyn Greene as she discovers why this Southwestern city has become a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, food innovators, and cultural preservation. From sunrise balloon rides to Indigenous-led breweries, explore the Albuquerque that's rooted in 10-million-year-old landscapes and 700 years of Pueblo heritage. In this episode, you'll learn: How Albuquerque preserved one-quarter of its land as open space—and what that means for visitors today The Indigenous entrepreneurs and chefs reclaiming food sovereignty through heritage grains, native ingredients, and innovative brewing Why New Mexico's oldest wine region is finally getting the recognition it deserves The best ways to experience Albuquerque's outdoor spaces, from the Sandia Peak Tramway to the new downtown Rail Trail Meet this week’s guests Sarah Sheasley, director of marketing for ⁠Los Poblanos⁠ ⁠Elaine Briseño⁠, journalist and historian  Terry Brunner, the Director of the city of Albuquerque’s ⁠Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency⁠ ⁠Justin de la Rosa⁠, a local food writer and director of outlets for the Sawmill Market ⁠Dylan Storment⁠, director of wine and spirits at Los Poblanos Missy Begay, cofounder of ⁠Bow & Arrow Brewing⁠  Bill Stimmel, the entrepreneurial director at ⁠Indian Pueblo Cultural Center⁠ Murray Conrad, hot air balloon pilot and owner of ⁠World Balloon⁠ My Albuquerque itinerary Where I ate, stayed, and played. Hotels Book a stay at ⁠Los Poblanos⁠ Book a stay at ⁠Hotel Chaco⁠ Restaurants ⁠El Patio⁠ ⁠Mesa Provisions⁠ ⁠Coda Bakery⁠ Campo at ⁠Los Poblanos⁠ Level 5 at ⁠Hotel Chaco⁠ ⁠Farm & Table⁠ ⁠Bow & Arrow Brewing⁠  ⁠Old Town Farm⁠ Activities Take a bike and taco tour with ⁠Routes⁠ Tour the ⁠Indian Pueblo Cultural Center⁠ Visit the ⁠Paseo del Bosque⁠ Take a tram up ⁠Sandia Peak⁠ Fly with ⁠World Balloon⁠ If you want to hear more of the flamenco episode you hear at the top of the episode, see a show at ⁠Tablao Flamenco⁠ Explore more places to stay and savor with Afar's New Mexico travel guide. Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 09 Oct 2025 13:00:00 -0000 full Afar Albuquerque isn't just a stopover—it's a destination where ancient land meets modern vision. On this replay episode of Unpacked, join host Aislyn Greene as she discovers why this Southwestern city has become a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, food innovators, and cultural preservation. From sunrise balloon rides to Indigenous-led breweries, explore the Albuquerque that's rooted in 10-million-year-old landscapes and 700 years of Pueblo heritage. In this episode, you'll learn: How Albuquerque preserved one-quarter of its land as open space—and what that means for visitors today The Indigenous entrepreneurs and chefs reclaiming food sovereignty through heritage grains, native ingredients, and innovative brewing Why New Mexico's oldest wine region is finally getting the recognition it deserves The best ways to experience Albuquerque's outdoor spaces, from the Sandia Peak Tramway to the new downtown Rail Trail Meet this week’s guests Sarah Sheasley, director of marketing for ⁠Los Poblanos⁠ ⁠Elaine Briseño⁠, journalist and historian  Terry Brunner, the Director of the city of Albuquerque’s ⁠Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency⁠ ⁠Justin de la Rosa⁠, a local food writer and director of outlets for the Sawmill Market ⁠Dylan Storment⁠, director of wine and spirits at Los Poblanos Missy Begay, cofounder of ⁠Bow & Arrow Brewing⁠  Bill Stimmel, the entrepreneurial director at ⁠Indian Pueblo Cultural Center⁠ Murray Conrad, hot air balloon pilot and owner of ⁠World Balloon⁠ My Albuquerque itinerary Where I ate, stayed, and played. Hotels Book a stay at ⁠Los Poblanos⁠ Book a stay at ⁠Hotel Chaco⁠ Restaurants ⁠El Patio⁠ ⁠Mesa Provisions⁠ ⁠Coda Bakery⁠ Campo at ⁠Los Poblanos⁠ Level 5 at ⁠Hotel Chaco⁠ ⁠Farm & Table⁠ ⁠Bow & Arrow Brewing⁠  ⁠Old Town Farm⁠ Activities Take a bike and taco tour with ⁠Routes⁠ Tour the ⁠Indian Pueblo Cultural Center⁠ Visit the ⁠Paseo del Bosque⁠ Take a tram up ⁠Sandia Peak⁠ Fly with ⁠World Balloon⁠ If you want to hear more of the flamenco episode you hear at the top of the episode, see a show at ⁠Tablao Flamenco⁠ Explore more places to stay and savor with Afar's New Mexico travel guide. Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Albuquerque isn't just a stopover—it's a destination where ancient land meets modern vision. On this replay episode of Unpacked, join host Aislyn Greene as she discovers why this Southwestern city has become a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, food innovators, and cultural preservation. From sunrise balloon rides to Indigenous-led breweries, explore the Albuquerque that's rooted in 10-million-year-old landscapes and 700 years of Pueblo heritage.

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    • How Albuquerque preserved one-quarter of its land as open space—and what that means for visitors today
    • The Indigenous entrepreneurs and chefs reclaiming food sovereignty through heritage grains, native ingredients, and innovative brewing
    • Why New Mexico's oldest wine region is finally getting the recognition it deserves
    • The best ways to experience Albuquerque's outdoor spaces, from the Sandia Peak Tramway to the new downtown Rail Trail

    Meet this week’s guests


    My Albuquerque itinerary

    Where I ate, stayed, and played.

    Hotels


    Restaurants


    Activities

    Explore more places to stay and savor with Afar's New Mexico travel guide.


    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 
    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1986 no     A Local's Guide to England's Best-Kept Secrets This isn't just London—it's England, and there's so much more beyond the royal stereotypes. On this episode of Unpacked—part of Afar's ongoing Off the Tourist Trail series—join host Aislyn Greene as she explores hidden England with travel journalist Lottie Gross. From rebellious Bristol to underground cave networks, discover the layers of England that even locals often miss. Lottie shares her insider knowledge on experiencing authentic English culture, avoiding tourist traps, and finding magic in shoulder seasons. In this episode, you'll learn Why Bristol is the rebellious alternative to London you need to visit Underground adventures in the Peak District's historic Blue John mines The best neighborhoods in London (the ones that locals love) When to visit England for fewer crowds and better prices Essential etiquette tips for respecting English communities Don't miss these moments [08:45] The Cotswolds photography problem that's driving locals crazy [16:30] Why Bristol tore down Edward Colston's statue—and what it means [24:15] Taking a boat through underground caves to a "bottomless pit" [31:20] The purple heather moors and heritage railways of North Yorkshire [42:35] Winter seal pups and life-changing venison curry in Norfolk Meet this week's guest Lottie Gross, travel journalist and England expert who explores her home country's hidden gems Resources —For more tips from Lottie about where to go, where to say, and what to eat, read her England Off the Beaten Path story on afar.com —Follow Lottie's ongoing UK adventures on Instagram —Read about South Oxfordshire in Afar's 2025 Where to Go list —Dog lovers, be sure to check out Lottie's books, Dog-Friendly Weekends and Dog Days Out —Check out our Iceland Off the Tourist Trail episode —Read the transcript of the episode. Where to StaySoho Farmhouse (Oxfordshire) The Grand hotel (North Yorkshire) What to do Bristol's Banksy street art tours with Where the WallSS Great Britain ship museum (Bristol) North York Moors heritage railway (Pickering to Whitby) Speedwell Cavern boat tours (Peak District) Borough Market and Maltby Street Market (London) Holkham Beach for winter seal watching (Norfolk) Whitby's annual Goth weekend Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 26 Sep 2025 00:27:00 -0000 full Afar This isn't just London—it's England, and there's so much more beyond the royal stereotypes. On this episode of Unpacked—part of Afar's ongoing Off the Tourist Trail series—join host Aislyn Greene as she explores hidden England with travel journalist Lottie Gross. From rebellious Bristol to underground cave networks, discover the layers of England that even locals often miss. Lottie shares her insider knowledge on experiencing authentic English culture, avoiding tourist traps, and finding magic in shoulder seasons. In this episode, you'll learn Why Bristol is the rebellious alternative to London you need to visit Underground adventures in the Peak District's historic Blue John mines The best neighborhoods in London (the ones that locals love) When to visit England for fewer crowds and better prices Essential etiquette tips for respecting English communities Don't miss these moments [08:45] The Cotswolds photography problem that's driving locals crazy [16:30] Why Bristol tore down Edward Colston's statue—and what it means [24:15] Taking a boat through underground caves to a "bottomless pit" [31:20] The purple heather moors and heritage railways of North Yorkshire [42:35] Winter seal pups and life-changing venison curry in Norfolk Meet this week's guest Lottie Gross, travel journalist and England expert who explores her home country's hidden gems Resources —For more tips from Lottie about where to go, where to say, and what to eat, read her England Off the Beaten Path story on afar.com —Follow Lottie's ongoing UK adventures on Instagram —Read about South Oxfordshire in Afar's 2025 Where to Go list —Dog lovers, be sure to check out Lottie's books, Dog-Friendly Weekends and Dog Days Out —Check out our Iceland Off the Tourist Trail episode —Read the transcript of the episode. Where to StaySoho Farmhouse (Oxfordshire) The Grand hotel (North Yorkshire) What to do Bristol's Banksy street art tours with Where the WallSS Great Britain ship museum (Bristol) North York Moors heritage railway (Pickering to Whitby) Speedwell Cavern boat tours (Peak District) Borough Market and Maltby Street Market (London) Holkham Beach for winter seal watching (Norfolk) Whitby's annual Goth weekend Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This isn't just London—it's England, and there's so much more beyond the royal stereotypes. On this episode of Unpacked—part of Afar's ongoing Off the Tourist Trail series—join host Aislyn Greene as she explores hidden England with travel journalist Lottie Gross.

    From rebellious Bristol to underground cave networks, discover the layers of England that even locals often miss. Lottie shares her insider knowledge on experiencing authentic English culture, avoiding tourist traps, and finding magic in shoulder seasons.

    In this episode, you'll learn

    • Why Bristol is the rebellious alternative to London you need to visit
    • Underground adventures in the Peak District's historic Blue John mines
    • The best neighborhoods in London (the ones that locals love)
    • When to visit England for fewer crowds and better prices
    • Essential etiquette tips for respecting English communities

    Don't miss these moments [08:45] The Cotswolds photography problem that's driving locals crazy [16:30] Why Bristol tore down Edward Colston's statue—and what it means [24:15] Taking a boat through underground caves to a "bottomless pit" [31:20] The purple heather moors and heritage railways of North Yorkshire
    [42:35] Winter seal pups and life-changing venison curry in Norfolk

    Meet this week's guest

    • Lottie Gross, travel journalist and England expert who explores her home country's hidden gems

    Resources —For more tips from Lottie about where to go, where to say, and what to eat, read her England Off the Beaten Path story on afar.com —Follow Lottie's ongoing UK adventures on Instagram —Read about South Oxfordshire in Afar's 2025 Where to Go list

    —Dog lovers, be sure to check out Lottie's books, Dog-Friendly Weekends and Dog Days Out

    —Check out our Iceland Off the Tourist Trail episode

    —Read the transcript of the episode.

    Where to StaySoho Farmhouse (Oxfordshire) The Grand hotel (North Yorkshire)

    What to do Bristol's Banksy street art tours with Where the WallSS Great Britain ship museum (Bristol) North York Moors heritage railway (Pickering to Whitby) Speedwell Cavern boat tours (Peak District) Borough Market and Maltby Street Market (London) Holkham Beach for winter seal watching (Norfolk) Whitby's annual Goth weekend


    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2598 no     Giants of the Highway: The Secret Story Behind Route 66's Most Unusual Museum Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. The mini series is part of Afar's "52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year" story, and in this fourth episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Illinois to explore the towering fiberglass giants that once ruled America's highways. From Bob Prewitt's rodeo horse trailers to Texaco's massive "Big Friend" campaign, this episode reveals how a cowboy's creativity sparked a nationwide phenomenon of supersized roadside advertising—and how one man's obsession saved these giants from extinction. On this episode you'll learn How rodeo cowboy Bob Prewitt accidentally launched the fiberglass giant industry while building horse trailers in 1960s California Why these towering figures became known as "Muffler Men" despite most never holding mufflers The story behind Texaco's ambitious Big Friend program that deployed 300 twenty-three-foot servicemen across America—and why it failed spectacularly How oil companies like Phillips 66 and Texaco drove the nationwide expansion of roadside giants in the 1960s What happened when Texaco ordered all their giants destroyed, echoing Cecil B. DeMille's Hollywood set demolitions Why Joel Baker became America's leading expert on fiberglass giants and opened the country's only dedicated museum How the American Giants Museum on Route 66 preserves these analog attractions for smartphone-era visitors Featured Expert: Joel Baker, founder of the American Giants Museum in Atlanta, Illinois Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and Unpacked,⁠ where we dig into the trickiest topics in travel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:20:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. The mini series is part of Afar's "52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year" story, and in this fourth episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Illinois to explore the towering fiberglass giants that once ruled America's highways. From Bob Prewitt's rodeo horse trailers to Texaco's massive "Big Friend" campaign, this episode reveals how a cowboy's creativity sparked a nationwide phenomenon of supersized roadside advertising—and how one man's obsession saved these giants from extinction. On this episode you'll learn How rodeo cowboy Bob Prewitt accidentally launched the fiberglass giant industry while building horse trailers in 1960s California Why these towering figures became known as "Muffler Men" despite most never holding mufflers The story behind Texaco's ambitious Big Friend program that deployed 300 twenty-three-foot servicemen across America—and why it failed spectacularly How oil companies like Phillips 66 and Texaco drove the nationwide expansion of roadside giants in the 1960s What happened when Texaco ordered all their giants destroyed, echoing Cecil B. DeMille's Hollywood set demolitions Why Joel Baker became America's leading expert on fiberglass giants and opened the country's only dedicated museum How the American Giants Museum on Route 66 preserves these analog attractions for smartphone-era visitors Featured Expert: Joel Baker, founder of the American Giants Museum in Atlanta, Illinois Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and Unpacked,⁠ where we dig into the trickiest topics in travel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary.

    The mini series is part of Afar's "52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year" story, and in this fourth episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Illinois to explore the towering fiberglass giants that once ruled America's highways.

    From Bob Prewitt's rodeo horse trailers to Texaco's massive "Big Friend" campaign, this episode reveals how a cowboy's creativity sparked a nationwide phenomenon of supersized roadside advertising—and how one man's obsession saved these giants from extinction.

    On this episode you'll learn

    • How rodeo cowboy Bob Prewitt accidentally launched the fiberglass giant industry while building horse trailers in 1960s California
    • Why these towering figures became known as "Muffler Men" despite most never holding mufflers
    • The story behind Texaco's ambitious Big Friend program that deployed 300 twenty-three-foot servicemen across America—and why it failed spectacularly
    • How oil companies like Phillips 66 and Texaco drove the nationwide expansion of roadside giants in the 1960s
    • What happened when Texaco ordered all their giants destroyed, echoing Cecil B. DeMille's Hollywood set demolitions
    • Why Joel Baker became America's leading expert on fiberglass giants and opened the country's only dedicated museum
    • How the American Giants Museum on Route 66 preserves these analog attractions for smartphone-era visitors

    Featured Expert: Joel Baker, founder of the American Giants Museum in Atlanta, Illinois


    Stay Connected

    Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.

    Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and Unpacked,⁠ where we dig into the trickiest topics in travel.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1251 no     Beyond the Ring Road: An Iceland Insider’s Guide to Avoiding the Crowds Iceland is so much more than the Golden Circle and Northern Lights—there's a vast country that exists beyond the tourist hotspots. On this episode of Unpacked, join host Aislyn Greene as she speaks with travel writer Ali Wunderman, who has been exploring the country for more than a decade. Ali shares how to connect with authentic Icelandic culture, avoid the crowds, and discover the spots that most visitors miss. From traditional lopapeysa sweaters to remote West Fjords adventures, learn how to experience Iceland like a local. In this episode, you'll learn How to avoid crowds at Iceland's most popular destinations Why the West Fjords and East Fjords offer Iceland's most authentic experiences The cultural significance behind Iceland's tourism boom and economic recovery How to respectfully engage with Icelandic hot spring etiquette and local customs Don't miss these moments [03:00] The tourism video that changed everything and launched Iceland's boom [08:00] Why dating an Icelander is the ultimate travel hack (and passport strategy) [15:00] Iceland's transformation from a place left off maps to overtourism destination [20:00] The real story behind Icelandic cuisine beyond fermented shark [25:00] How WWII American soldiers accidentally created modern Iceland's progressive culture [30:00] Essential Icelandic words and cultural tips for connecting with locals Meet this week's guest Ali Wunderman, travel writer for National Geographic, Vogue, and Afar, and author of an Iceland guidebook Resources —Read the transcript of this episode —Read Ali's Afar.com story about off-the-beaten-path Iceland —Explore Afar's guide to Iceland —Browse Ali's Iceland guidebook —Follow Ali's travels and writing on Instagram —Explore her ex-boyfriend's Icelandic music playlist. "He often shares this with foreigners to get a deeper taste of Iceland's music beyond the stuff that makes it to the USA," Ali says. Where to Stay Find your dream Icelandic hotel Where to Eat, Drink, and shop Shop for traditional Icelandic sweaters at the Handknitting Association of Iceland Eat Icelandic cuisine at Dill restaurant (Iceland's first Michelin star) Try local Thai restaurants (a surprising Iceland specialty) Eat the famous hamburger with fries inside at Leirunesti in Akureyri Activities Horseback riding with Eldhestar Sheep herding during réttir season (September) Iceland Airwaves Music Festival (November) Þorrablót winter festivals (January) West Fjords photography expeditions Highland four-wheel-drive adventures Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 11 Sep 2025 17:36:00 -0000 full 4 13 Afar Iceland is so much more than the Golden Circle and Northern Lights—there's a vast country that exists beyond the tourist hotspots. On this episode of Unpacked, join host Aislyn Greene as she speaks with travel writer Ali Wunderman, who has been exploring the country for more than a decade. Ali shares how to connect with authentic Icelandic culture, avoid the crowds, and discover the spots that most visitors miss. From traditional lopapeysa sweaters to remote West Fjords adventures, learn how to experience Iceland like a local. In this episode, you'll learn How to avoid crowds at Iceland's most popular destinations Why the West Fjords and East Fjords offer Iceland's most authentic experiences The cultural significance behind Iceland's tourism boom and economic recovery How to respectfully engage with Icelandic hot spring etiquette and local customs Don't miss these moments [03:00] The tourism video that changed everything and launched Iceland's boom [08:00] Why dating an Icelander is the ultimate travel hack (and passport strategy) [15:00] Iceland's transformation from a place left off maps to overtourism destination [20:00] The real story behind Icelandic cuisine beyond fermented shark [25:00] How WWII American soldiers accidentally created modern Iceland's progressive culture [30:00] Essential Icelandic words and cultural tips for connecting with locals Meet this week's guest Ali Wunderman, travel writer for National Geographic, Vogue, and Afar, and author of an Iceland guidebook Resources —Read the transcript of this episode —Read Ali's Afar.com story about off-the-beaten-path Iceland —Explore Afar's guide to Iceland —Browse Ali's Iceland guidebook —Follow Ali's travels and writing on Instagram —Explore her ex-boyfriend's Icelandic music playlist. "He often shares this with foreigners to get a deeper taste of Iceland's music beyond the stuff that makes it to the USA," Ali says. Where to Stay Find your dream Icelandic hotel Where to Eat, Drink, and shop Shop for traditional Icelandic sweaters at the Handknitting Association of Iceland Eat Icelandic cuisine at Dill restaurant (Iceland's first Michelin star) Try local Thai restaurants (a surprising Iceland specialty) Eat the famous hamburger with fries inside at Leirunesti in Akureyri Activities Horseback riding with Eldhestar Sheep herding during réttir season (September) Iceland Airwaves Music Festival (November) Þorrablót winter festivals (January) West Fjords photography expeditions Highland four-wheel-drive adventures Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. Stay Connected Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Iceland is so much more than the Golden Circle and Northern Lights—there's a vast country that exists beyond the tourist hotspots. On this episode of Unpacked, join host Aislyn Greene as she speaks with travel writer Ali Wunderman, who has been exploring the country for more than a decade.

    Ali shares how to connect with authentic Icelandic culture, avoid the crowds, and discover the spots that most visitors miss. From traditional lopapeysa sweaters to remote West Fjords adventures, learn how to experience Iceland like a local.

    In this episode, you'll learn

    • How to avoid crowds at Iceland's most popular destinations
    • Why the West Fjords and East Fjords offer Iceland's most authentic experiences
    • The cultural significance behind Iceland's tourism boom and economic recovery
    • How to respectfully engage with Icelandic hot spring etiquette and local customs

    Don't miss these moments [03:00] The tourism video that changed everything and launched Iceland's boom [08:00] Why dating an Icelander is the ultimate travel hack (and passport strategy) [15:00] Iceland's transformation from a place left off maps to overtourism destination [20:00] The real story behind Icelandic cuisine beyond fermented shark [25:00] How WWII American soldiers accidentally created modern Iceland's progressive culture [30:00] Essential Icelandic words and cultural tips for connecting with locals

    Meet this week's guest

    • Ali Wunderman, travel writer for National Geographic, Vogue, and Afar, and author of an Iceland guidebook

    Resources —Read the transcript of this episode —Read Ali's Afar.com story about off-the-beaten-path Iceland

    —Explore Afar's guide to Iceland —Browse Ali's Iceland guidebook —Follow Ali's travels and writing on Instagram —Explore her ex-boyfriend's Icelandic music playlist. "He often shares this with foreigners to get a deeper taste of Iceland's music beyond the stuff that makes it to the USA," Ali says.

    Where to Stay Find your dream Icelandic hotel

    Where to Eat, Drink, and shop

    Shop for traditional Icelandic sweaters at the Handknitting Association of Iceland Eat Icelandic cuisine at Dill restaurant (Iceland's first Michelin star) Try local Thai restaurants (a surprising Iceland specialty) Eat the famous hamburger with fries inside at Leirunesti in Akureyri

    Activities Horseback riding with Eldhestar Sheep herding during réttir season (September) Iceland Airwaves Music Festival (November) Þorrablót winter festivals (January) West Fjords photography expeditions Highland four-wheel-drive adventures

    Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode.


    Stay Connected

    • Sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    • Explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2408 no     Unpacked, Five Questions: The Secret Life of New York's Oldest Businesses Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with feature writer Harrison Hill, who is working on his forthcoming book The Oracle's Daughter. For his latest Afar feature celebrating New York City's 400th birthday, Harrison embarked on a borough-hopping journey to visit the oldest family-owned businesses across all five boroughs—from record stores and restaurants to bars and delis beloved by locals. Harrison reveals how these century-old institutions survive by constantly evolving while maintaining their authentic character, and shares his surprising discoveries about the precarity and resilience of New York's most iconic establishments. He also opens up about approaching his home city of 19 years as a travel destination for the first time. On this episode you'll learn Why New York's oldest businesses are both unchanging foundations and constantly evolving enterprises How iconic places like Katz's Deli and Sylvia's restaurant nearly didn't survive the pandemic The secret subway trick to see NYC's original City Hall station What "New Yorkness" really means according to longtime residents and business owners Why Staten Island should be your next NYC adventure Don't miss these moments [02:33] Harrison's revelation about Katz's Deli serving a century-old vegan dish that's back on the menu [03:33] The easy (but little-known) way to get from Brooklyn to Staten Island via the Verrazzano Bridge [07:52] The semi-secret subway loop that reveals NYC's original City Hall station [10:13] Meeting 91-year-old Mike Amedeo, the beloved "mayor" of Casa Amedeo in the Bronx [14:04] How owning their building saved Sylvia's restaurant during COVID—and the precarity of even iconic NYC institutions [16:14] Harrison's best advice for New York visitors: "Always look both ways before crossing a one-way street" Resources Read Harrison's complete ⁠Afar story about New York's oldest family businesses⁠ Read the transcript of the episode Follow ⁠Harrison Hill⁠ for more travel and culture writing Learn more about ⁠NYC's 400th birthday celebrations⁠ ⁠Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 05 Sep 2025 07:01:00 -0000 full Afar Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with feature writer Harrison Hill, who is working on his forthcoming book The Oracle's Daughter. For his latest Afar feature celebrating New York City's 400th birthday, Harrison embarked on a borough-hopping journey to visit the oldest family-owned businesses across all five boroughs—from record stores and restaurants to bars and delis beloved by locals. Harrison reveals how these century-old institutions survive by constantly evolving while maintaining their authentic character, and shares his surprising discoveries about the precarity and resilience of New York's most iconic establishments. He also opens up about approaching his home city of 19 years as a travel destination for the first time. On this episode you'll learn Why New York's oldest businesses are both unchanging foundations and constantly evolving enterprises How iconic places like Katz's Deli and Sylvia's restaurant nearly didn't survive the pandemic The secret subway trick to see NYC's original City Hall station What "New Yorkness" really means according to longtime residents and business owners Why Staten Island should be your next NYC adventure Don't miss these moments [02:33] Harrison's revelation about Katz's Deli serving a century-old vegan dish that's back on the menu [03:33] The easy (but little-known) way to get from Brooklyn to Staten Island via the Verrazzano Bridge [07:52] The semi-secret subway loop that reveals NYC's original City Hall station [10:13] Meeting 91-year-old Mike Amedeo, the beloved "mayor" of Casa Amedeo in the Bronx [14:04] How owning their building saved Sylvia's restaurant during COVID—and the precarity of even iconic NYC institutions [16:14] Harrison's best advice for New York visitors: "Always look both ways before crossing a one-way street" Resources Read Harrison's complete ⁠Afar story about New York's oldest family businesses⁠ Read the transcript of the episode Follow ⁠Harrison Hill⁠ for more travel and culture writing Learn more about ⁠NYC's 400th birthday celebrations⁠ ⁠Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with feature writer Harrison Hill, who is working on his forthcoming book The Oracle's Daughter.

    For his latest Afar feature celebrating New York City's 400th birthday, Harrison embarked on a borough-hopping journey to visit the oldest family-owned businesses across all five boroughs—from record stores and restaurants to bars and delis beloved by locals.

    Harrison reveals how these century-old institutions survive by constantly evolving while maintaining their authentic character, and shares his surprising discoveries about the precarity and resilience of New York's most iconic establishments. He also opens up about approaching his home city of 19 years as a travel destination for the first time.

    On this episode you'll learn

    • Why New York's oldest businesses are both unchanging foundations and constantly evolving enterprises
    • How iconic places like Katz's Deli and Sylvia's restaurant nearly didn't survive the pandemic
    • The secret subway trick to see NYC's original City Hall station
    • What "New Yorkness" really means according to longtime residents and business owners
    • Why Staten Island should be your next NYC adventure

    Don't miss these moments

    • [02:33] Harrison's revelation about Katz's Deli serving a century-old vegan dish that's back on the menu
    • [03:33] The easy (but little-known) way to get from Brooklyn to Staten Island via the Verrazzano Bridge
    • [07:52] The semi-secret subway loop that reveals NYC's original City Hall station
    • [10:13] Meeting 91-year-old Mike Amedeo, the beloved "mayor" of Casa Amedeo in the Bronx
    • [14:04] How owning their building saved Sylvia's restaurant during COVID—and the precarity of even iconic NYC institutions
    • [16:14] Harrison's best advice for New York visitors: "Always look both ways before crossing a one-way street"

    Resources

    ⁠Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our other podcasts, View From Afar, about the people and companies shaping the future of travel, and ⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1611 no     Unpacked, Five Questions: When a British Writer Meets the Cape Cod of the Midwest Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with London-based writer Emma John, author of three books and Afar contributing writer, who recently visited Door County, Wisconsin—her 43rd U.S. state. Nicknamed "the Cape Cod of the Midwest," this sleepy peninsula surprised Emma with its unique blend of small-town charm and unexpected sophistication. Emma shares her discoveries about "Midwest Kind"—a cultural commitment to helping others that goes far beyond Southern hospitality—and reveals why Wisconsin wine is having a serious moment thanks to climate-conscious vintners. She also discusses the young entrepreneurs breathing new life into this traditional summer destination while staying true to its authentic character. On this episode you'll learn: What makes "Midwest Kind" different from other forms of American hospitality How climate change is creating unexpected opportunities for Wisconsin's wine industry Why Door County attracts young entrepreneurs who are modernizing without losing authenticity The hidden gems Emma discovered on her journey through Wisconsin Don't miss these moments: [04:00] Emma's revelation about Midwest Kind and the Azerbaijani student whose college friends drove hours just to help him move [06:00] The surprising quality of Wisconsin wines and why winemakers are returning home from Washington State [09:00] The charming town of Cedarburg and Emma's newfound obsession with antique jewelry stores [15:00] Why Door County's lakefront feels like Norwegian fjords—and attracted so many Scandinavian settlers [18:00] Emma's desire to return to Washington Island for its old-time music festival Resources: Read Emma's complete Afar story about Door County, Wisconsin Follow Emma John for more travel insights Explore Door County's 30+ islands and state parks Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 22 Aug 2025 07:01:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with London-based writer Emma John, author of three books and Afar contributing writer, who recently visited Door County, Wisconsin—her 43rd U.S. state. Nicknamed "the Cape Cod of the Midwest," this sleepy peninsula surprised Emma with its unique blend of small-town charm and unexpected sophistication. Emma shares her discoveries about "Midwest Kind"—a cultural commitment to helping others that goes far beyond Southern hospitality—and reveals why Wisconsin wine is having a serious moment thanks to climate-conscious vintners. She also discusses the young entrepreneurs breathing new life into this traditional summer destination while staying true to its authentic character. On this episode you'll learn: What makes "Midwest Kind" different from other forms of American hospitality How climate change is creating unexpected opportunities for Wisconsin's wine industry Why Door County attracts young entrepreneurs who are modernizing without losing authenticity The hidden gems Emma discovered on her journey through Wisconsin Don't miss these moments: [04:00] Emma's revelation about Midwest Kind and the Azerbaijani student whose college friends drove hours just to help him move [06:00] The surprising quality of Wisconsin wines and why winemakers are returning home from Washington State [09:00] The charming town of Cedarburg and Emma's newfound obsession with antique jewelry stores [15:00] Why Door County's lakefront feels like Norwegian fjords—and attracted so many Scandinavian settlers [18:00] Emma's desire to return to Washington Island for its old-time music festival Resources: Read Emma's complete Afar story about Door County, Wisconsin Follow Emma John for more travel insights Explore Door County's 30+ islands and state parks Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story.

    In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with London-based writer Emma John, author of three books and Afar contributing writer, who recently visited Door County, Wisconsin—her 43rd U.S. state. Nicknamed "the Cape Cod of the Midwest," this sleepy peninsula surprised Emma with its unique blend of small-town charm and unexpected sophistication.

    Emma shares her discoveries about "Midwest Kind"—a cultural commitment to helping others that goes far beyond Southern hospitality—and reveals why Wisconsin wine is having a serious moment thanks to climate-conscious vintners. She also discusses the young entrepreneurs breathing new life into this traditional summer destination while staying true to its authentic character.

    On this episode you'll learn:

    • What makes "Midwest Kind" different from other forms of American hospitality
    • How climate change is creating unexpected opportunities for Wisconsin's wine industry
    • Why Door County attracts young entrepreneurs who are modernizing without losing authenticity
    • The hidden gems Emma discovered on her journey through Wisconsin

    Don't miss these moments:

    • [04:00] Emma's revelation about Midwest Kind and the Azerbaijani student whose college friends drove hours just to help him move
    • [06:00] The surprising quality of Wisconsin wines and why winemakers are returning home from Washington State
    • [09:00] The charming town of Cedarburg and Emma's newfound obsession with antique jewelry stores
    • [15:00] Why Door County's lakefront feels like Norwegian fjords—and attracted so many Scandinavian settlers
    • [18:00] Emma's desire to return to Washington Island for its old-time music festival

    Resources:

    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1560 no     Paradise by Design: The Florida Story Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. The mini series is part of Afar's "52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year" package, and in this third episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Florida to explore the architectural fantasy that transformed swampland into America's playground. From Henry Flagler's gilded age railroad hotels to Carl Fisher's dredged Miami Beach paradise, this episode reveals how visionary tycoons and bold architects created the Florida Dream—one stunning hotel at a time. On this episode you'll learn How Henry Flagler, Standard Oil vice president, sparked Florida's transformation with luxury hotels along his railroad route from St. Augustine to Key West Why the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and 1914 San Diego World's Fair launched America's obsession with Mediterranean Revival architecture The story behind Carl Fisher's audacious creation of Miami Beach through dredging Biscayne Bay and building Art Deco masterpieces How the 1926 Florida land boom crashed spectacularly due to railroad overload and a devastating hurricane What Streamlined Modern and Googie architecture reveal about America's post-war optimism and space age dreams Why Florida's architectural preservation depends on tourism dollars and high-end development Featured Expert: Jonathan Lammers, an architectural historian based in Tallahassee Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 18 Aug 2025 19:10:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. The mini series is part of Afar's "52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year" package, and in this third episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Florida to explore the architectural fantasy that transformed swampland into America's playground. From Henry Flagler's gilded age railroad hotels to Carl Fisher's dredged Miami Beach paradise, this episode reveals how visionary tycoons and bold architects created the Florida Dream—one stunning hotel at a time. On this episode you'll learn How Henry Flagler, Standard Oil vice president, sparked Florida's transformation with luxury hotels along his railroad route from St. Augustine to Key West Why the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and 1914 San Diego World's Fair launched America's obsession with Mediterranean Revival architecture The story behind Carl Fisher's audacious creation of Miami Beach through dredging Biscayne Bay and building Art Deco masterpieces How the 1926 Florida land boom crashed spectacularly due to railroad overload and a devastating hurricane What Streamlined Modern and Googie architecture reveal about America's post-war optimism and space age dreams Why Florida's architectural preservation depends on tourism dollars and high-end development Featured Expert: Jonathan Lammers, an architectural historian based in Tallahassee Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary.

    The mini series is part of Afar's "52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year" package, and in this third episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Florida to explore the architectural fantasy that transformed swampland into America's playground.

    From Henry Flagler's gilded age railroad hotels to Carl Fisher's dredged Miami Beach paradise, this episode reveals how visionary tycoons and bold architects created the Florida Dream—one stunning hotel at a time.

    On this episode you'll learn

    • How Henry Flagler, Standard Oil vice president, sparked Florida's transformation with luxury hotels along his railroad route from St. Augustine to Key West
    • Why the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and 1914 San Diego World's Fair launched America's obsession with Mediterranean Revival architecture
    • The story behind Carl Fisher's audacious creation of Miami Beach through dredging Biscayne Bay and building Art Deco masterpieces
    • How the 1926 Florida land boom crashed spectacularly due to railroad overload and a devastating hurricane
    • What Streamlined Modern and Googie architecture reveal about America's post-war optimism and space age dreams
    • Why Florida's architectural preservation depends on tourism dollars and high-end development

    Featured Expert: Jonathan Lammers, an architectural historian based in Tallahassee

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1303 no     A Slow Traveler's Guide to Korea's (Second) Busiest City Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with New York Times bestselling author and Afar contributing writer Peggy Orenstein, who recently traded her usual slow-travel style for the bustling energy of Busan, South Korea's second-largest city. Known for her thoughtful explorations of walking trails like the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage and Slovenia's Juliana Trail, Peggy discovered that sometimes speeding things up can lead to extraordinary discoveries. On this episode you'll learn: Why choosing a country's "second city" over its capital can lead to more authentic travel experiences The fascinating history of how Busan became a refuge city during the Korean War What to expect at Korea's largest spa complex, including the mysterious sheep-head towel tradition How Busan's coastal location makes it Korea's seafood capital, not just another beef-focused destination Don't miss these moments: [03:45] The "Abigail Adams theory" of travel that inspired Peggy's approach to choosing destinations [07:20] Peggy's octopus experience at Jagalchi Fish Market and the safety warning she learned too late [12:15] Inside Spa Land: 22 thermal baths, 13 saunas, and the community culture of Korean bathhouses [16:30] The intangible "spirit of Busan" - how tranquility and turbulence coexist in this historic port city [19:10] Peggy's perfect two-day Busan itinerary, from morning coffee overlooking the port to full spa days Resources Read Peggy's complete Afar story about her Busan adventure Follow Peggy Orenstein for more travel insights and writing Watch Ode to My Father, the Korean film that first sparked Peggy's interest in Busan Read the transcript of the episode. Next Episode Preview Join Katherine in two weeks when she speaks with Emma John, a London-based journalist and Afar contributing writer, who visited Door County, Wisconsin - her 43rd U.S. state - and discovered why locals call it the "Cape Cod of the Midwest." Listen to More Afar Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our podcasts, ⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and View From Afar, where we hear from the people shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 01 Aug 2025 14:07:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with New York Times bestselling author and Afar contributing writer Peggy Orenstein, who recently traded her usual slow-travel style for the bustling energy of Busan, South Korea's second-largest city. Known for her thoughtful explorations of walking trails like the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage and Slovenia's Juliana Trail, Peggy discovered that sometimes speeding things up can lead to extraordinary discoveries. On this episode you'll learn: Why choosing a country's "second city" over its capital can lead to more authentic travel experiences The fascinating history of how Busan became a refuge city during the Korean War What to expect at Korea's largest spa complex, including the mysterious sheep-head towel tradition How Busan's coastal location makes it Korea's seafood capital, not just another beef-focused destination Don't miss these moments: [03:45] The "Abigail Adams theory" of travel that inspired Peggy's approach to choosing destinations [07:20] Peggy's octopus experience at Jagalchi Fish Market and the safety warning she learned too late [12:15] Inside Spa Land: 22 thermal baths, 13 saunas, and the community culture of Korean bathhouses [16:30] The intangible "spirit of Busan" - how tranquility and turbulence coexist in this historic port city [19:10] Peggy's perfect two-day Busan itinerary, from morning coffee overlooking the port to full spa days Resources Read Peggy's complete Afar story about her Busan adventure Follow Peggy Orenstein for more travel insights and writing Watch Ode to My Father, the Korean film that first sparked Peggy's interest in Busan Read the transcript of the episode. Next Episode Preview Join Katherine in two weeks when she speaks with Emma John, a London-based journalist and Afar contributing writer, who visited Door County, Wisconsin - her 43rd U.S. state - and discovered why locals call it the "Cape Cod of the Midwest." Listen to More Afar Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our podcasts, ⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and View From Afar, where we hear from the people shaping the future of travel. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story.

    In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with New York Times bestselling author and Afar contributing writer Peggy Orenstein, who recently traded her usual slow-travel style for the bustling energy of Busan, South Korea's second-largest city.

    Known for her thoughtful explorations of walking trails like the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage and Slovenia's Juliana Trail, Peggy discovered that sometimes speeding things up can lead to extraordinary discoveries.

    On this episode you'll learn:

    • Why choosing a country's "second city" over its capital can lead to more authentic travel experiences
    • The fascinating history of how Busan became a refuge city during the Korean War
    • What to expect at Korea's largest spa complex, including the mysterious sheep-head towel tradition
    • How Busan's coastal location makes it Korea's seafood capital, not just another beef-focused destination

    Don't miss these moments: [03:45] The "Abigail Adams theory" of travel that inspired Peggy's approach to choosing destinations [07:20] Peggy's octopus experience at Jagalchi Fish Market and the safety warning she learned too late [12:15] Inside Spa Land: 22 thermal baths, 13 saunas, and the community culture of Korean bathhouses [16:30] The intangible "spirit of Busan" - how tranquility and turbulence coexist in this historic port city [19:10] Peggy's perfect two-day Busan itinerary, from morning coffee overlooking the port to full spa days

    Resources

    Next Episode Preview Join Katherine in two weeks when she speaks with Emma John, a London-based journalist and Afar contributing writer, who visited Door County, Wisconsin - her 43rd U.S. state - and discovered why locals call it the "Cape Cod of the Midwest."

    Listen to More Afar

    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our podcasts, ⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us, and View From Afar, where we hear from the people shaping the future of travel.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠⁠Airwave Media⁠⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1304 no     This Beat Is the Real Heart of D.C. Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. The mini series is part of Afar's "⁠52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year"⁠ package, and in this second episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Washington, D.C. to explore go-go music—the uniquely American sound that's been moving communities for fifty years. From Chuck Brown's groundbreaking fusion of funk, hip-hop, and Latin rhythms in the 1970s to today's global collaborations, this episode shares how a local D.C. music scene survived criminalization, gentrification, and decades of attacks to become the official music of the nation's capital. On this episode you'll learn: How Chuck Brown created Go-Go by blending funk, hip-hop, and Latin rhythms into something entirely new Why Go-Go is "one of the only Black popular music forms that have not been colonized" The role of D.C.'s "Chocolate City" era and summer job programs in nurturing neighborhood bands How the 1987 curfew laws criminalized Go-Go and forced an entire generation underground What the "Don't Mute DC" movement achieved and how it changed everything Featured Guest: Dr. Natalie Hopkinson, chief curator of the Go-Go Museum and Café, associate professor at American University, and author of multiple books on go-go culture Songs featured in this episode Chuck Brown: "Bustin' Loose" Parliament: "Chocolate City"Nelly: "Hot In Herre" Black Alley: "Noochie’s Live From The Front Porch" Michelle Blackwell: "Enjoy Myself" CCB: "All I Want For Christmas Is You" Chuck Brown: "Chuck Baby" Musicians featured in this episode Chuck Brown Black Alley Michelle Blackwell The Experience Band & Show Rare Essence Backyard Band CCB (Critical Condition Band) Pock3t Or kick things off with this go-go playlist. And read the transcript. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 29 Jul 2025 20:55:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. The mini series is part of Afar's "⁠52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year"⁠ package, and in this second episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Washington, D.C. to explore go-go music—the uniquely American sound that's been moving communities for fifty years. From Chuck Brown's groundbreaking fusion of funk, hip-hop, and Latin rhythms in the 1970s to today's global collaborations, this episode shares how a local D.C. music scene survived criminalization, gentrification, and decades of attacks to become the official music of the nation's capital. On this episode you'll learn: How Chuck Brown created Go-Go by blending funk, hip-hop, and Latin rhythms into something entirely new Why Go-Go is "one of the only Black popular music forms that have not been colonized" The role of D.C.'s "Chocolate City" era and summer job programs in nurturing neighborhood bands How the 1987 curfew laws criminalized Go-Go and forced an entire generation underground What the "Don't Mute DC" movement achieved and how it changed everything Featured Guest: Dr. Natalie Hopkinson, chief curator of the Go-Go Museum and Café, associate professor at American University, and author of multiple books on go-go culture Songs featured in this episode Chuck Brown: "Bustin' Loose" Parliament: "Chocolate City"Nelly: "Hot In Herre" Black Alley: "Noochie’s Live From The Front Porch" Michelle Blackwell: "Enjoy Myself" CCB: "All I Want For Christmas Is You" Chuck Brown: "Chuck Baby" Musicians featured in this episode Chuck Brown Black Alley Michelle Blackwell The Experience Band & Show Rare Essence Backyard Band CCB (Critical Condition Band) Pock3t Or kick things off with this go-go playlist. And read the transcript. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. The mini series is part of Afar's "⁠52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year"⁠ package, and in this second episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Washington, D.C. to explore go-go music—the uniquely American sound that's been moving communities for fifty years.

    From Chuck Brown's groundbreaking fusion of funk, hip-hop, and Latin rhythms in the 1970s to today's global collaborations, this episode shares how a local D.C. music scene survived criminalization, gentrification, and decades of attacks to become the official music of the nation's capital.

    On this episode you'll learn:

    • How Chuck Brown created Go-Go by blending funk, hip-hop, and Latin rhythms into something entirely new
    • Why Go-Go is "one of the only Black popular music forms that have not been colonized"
    • The role of D.C.'s "Chocolate City" era and summer job programs in nurturing neighborhood bands
    • How the 1987 curfew laws criminalized Go-Go and forced an entire generation underground
    • What the "Don't Mute DC" movement achieved and how it changed everything

    Featured Guest: Dr. Natalie Hopkinson, chief curator of the Go-Go Museum and Café, associate professor at American University, and author of multiple books on go-go culture


    Songs featured in this episode

    Chuck Brown: "Bustin' Loose"

    Parliament: "Chocolate City"
    Nelly: "Hot In Herre"

    Black Alley: "Noochie’s Live From The Front Porch"

    Michelle Blackwell: "Enjoy Myself"

    CCB: "All I Want For Christmas Is You"

    Chuck Brown: "Chuck Baby"

    Musicians featured in this episode

    Chuck Brown

    Black Alley

    Michelle Blackwell

    The Experience Band & Show

    Rare Essence

    Backyard Band

    CCB (Critical Condition Band)

    Pock3t

    Or kick things off with this go-go playlist. And read the transcript.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     984 no     From Controversial Pizza to Comeback Stories: America's Most Compelling Cities Right Now In this special Unpacked bonus episode, we're going behind the scenes of our newView From Afar podcast, which spotlights the people and the ideas shaping the future of travel. Afar editors traveled to the floor of IPW, the annual travel conference organized by the U.S. Travel Association to share the best of America with the rest of the world.  In this episode, we hear from Afar editorial director Billie Cohen, who conducted interviews over two intense days, covering everything from major cities like New York and Boston to more under-the-radar places like St. Louis and Buffalo. What emerged were fascinating themes about welcoming international travelers, the economic realities of tourism, and how destinations are bouncing back from natural disasters faster than you might think. Billie shares why these conversations left her more excited than ever to explore America—and yes, even try that controversial St. Louis pizza. On this episode you'll learn: Why international visitors make up only 20 percent of NYC tourism but contribute 50 percent of tourism spending How destinations like Asheville and Fort Myers are ready for visitors much sooner after disasters than you'd expect The creative ways cities are spreading tourism benefits beyond traditional hotspots through neighborhood storytelling Why St. Louis might be America's most underrated arts destination (with surprising Monets and opera premieres) Don't miss these moments: [03:58] The economic reality: Buffalo losing 20% of its Canadian visitors this year [05:56] Why disaster-hit destinations need visitors for recovery, not just sympathy [09:26] St. Louis's free cultural offerings that rival DC's Smithsonian museums [12:38] Billie's skeptical New Yorker take on St. Louis pizza and why she's willing to try it anyway [15:00] The delicate balance between promoting neighborhoods and over-touristing them Explore More Head over to View From Afar to hear Billie's full conversations with these destination leaders who are reshaping how we think about American travel: Martha Sheridan, president and CEO of Meet Boston, talks about how this most American of cities is celebrating in 2026. Julie Coker, president and CEO of New York City Tourism and Conventions talks about NYC’s plans for its 400th birthday. Tamara Pigott, executive director of Visit Fort Myers, shares how she’s transformed southwest Florida into a world-class destination that offers much more than gorgeous beaches. Carolann Ouellette, President of the Maine Office of Tourism, on how the outdoors is essential to the state’s economy and its communities. Brad Dean, President and CEO of Explore St. Louis, discusses why he chose the Gateway City over offers from New York and Chicago and how America’s heartland is ready for a renaissance. Patrick Kaler, president and CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara, talks about Buffalo’s rich architectural and Black history. Walt Leger, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company talks about the city’s vibe and where to go beyond the French Quarter. Helen Hill, executive director of Explore Charleston, talks about the importance of showing a city’s true history. Vic Isley, president and CEO of Explore Asheville, talks about the resilience of people and western North Carolina. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 25 Jul 2025 23:11:00 -0000 bonus Afar In this special Unpacked bonus episode, we're going behind the scenes of our newView From Afar podcast, which spotlights the people and the ideas shaping the future of travel. Afar editors traveled to the floor of IPW, the annual travel conference organized by the U.S. Travel Association to share the best of America with the rest of the world.  In this episode, we hear from Afar editorial director Billie Cohen, who conducted interviews over two intense days, covering everything from major cities like New York and Boston to more under-the-radar places like St. Louis and Buffalo. What emerged were fascinating themes about welcoming international travelers, the economic realities of tourism, and how destinations are bouncing back from natural disasters faster than you might think. Billie shares why these conversations left her more excited than ever to explore America—and yes, even try that controversial St. Louis pizza. On this episode you'll learn: Why international visitors make up only 20 percent of NYC tourism but contribute 50 percent of tourism spending How destinations like Asheville and Fort Myers are ready for visitors much sooner after disasters than you'd expect The creative ways cities are spreading tourism benefits beyond traditional hotspots through neighborhood storytelling Why St. Louis might be America's most underrated arts destination (with surprising Monets and opera premieres) Don't miss these moments: [03:58] The economic reality: Buffalo losing 20% of its Canadian visitors this year [05:56] Why disaster-hit destinations need visitors for recovery, not just sympathy [09:26] St. Louis's free cultural offerings that rival DC's Smithsonian museums [12:38] Billie's skeptical New Yorker take on St. Louis pizza and why she's willing to try it anyway [15:00] The delicate balance between promoting neighborhoods and over-touristing them Explore More Head over to View From Afar to hear Billie's full conversations with these destination leaders who are reshaping how we think about American travel: Martha Sheridan, president and CEO of Meet Boston, talks about how this most American of cities is celebrating in 2026. Julie Coker, president and CEO of New York City Tourism and Conventions talks about NYC’s plans for its 400th birthday. Tamara Pigott, executive director of Visit Fort Myers, shares how she’s transformed southwest Florida into a world-class destination that offers much more than gorgeous beaches. Carolann Ouellette, President of the Maine Office of Tourism, on how the outdoors is essential to the state’s economy and its communities. Brad Dean, President and CEO of Explore St. Louis, discusses why he chose the Gateway City over offers from New York and Chicago and how America’s heartland is ready for a renaissance. Patrick Kaler, president and CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara, talks about Buffalo’s rich architectural and Black history. Walt Leger, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company talks about the city’s vibe and where to go beyond the French Quarter. Helen Hill, executive director of Explore Charleston, talks about the importance of showing a city’s true history. Vic Isley, president and CEO of Explore Asheville, talks about the resilience of people and western North Carolina. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this special Unpacked bonus episode, we're going behind the scenes of our newView From Afar podcast, which spotlights the people and the ideas shaping the future of travel. Afar editors traveled to the floor of IPW, the annual travel conference organized by the U.S. Travel Association to share the best of America with the rest of the world. 

    In this episode, we hear from Afar editorial director Billie Cohen, who conducted interviews over two intense days, covering everything from major cities like New York and Boston to more under-the-radar places like St. Louis and Buffalo. What emerged were fascinating themes about welcoming international travelers, the economic realities of tourism, and how destinations are bouncing back from natural disasters faster than you might think.

    Billie shares why these conversations left her more excited than ever to explore America—and yes, even try that controversial St. Louis pizza.

    On this episode you'll learn:

    • Why international visitors make up only 20 percent of NYC tourism but contribute 50 percent of tourism spending
    • How destinations like Asheville and Fort Myers are ready for visitors much sooner after disasters than you'd expect
    • The creative ways cities are spreading tourism benefits beyond traditional hotspots through neighborhood storytelling
    • Why St. Louis might be America's most underrated arts destination (with surprising Monets and opera premieres)

    Don't miss these moments: [03:58] The economic reality: Buffalo losing 20% of its Canadian visitors this year [05:56] Why disaster-hit destinations need visitors for recovery, not just sympathy [09:26] St. Louis's free cultural offerings that rival DC's Smithsonian museums [12:38] Billie's skeptical New Yorker take on St. Louis pizza and why she's willing to try it anyway [15:00] The delicate balance between promoting neighborhoods and over-touristing them

    Explore More

    Head over to View From Afar to hear Billie's full conversations with these destination leaders who are reshaping how we think about American travel:

    1. Martha Sheridan, president and CEO of Meet Boston, talks about how this most American of cities is celebrating in 2026.
    2. Julie Coker, president and CEO of New York City Tourism and Conventions talks about NYC’s plans for its 400th birthday.
    3. Tamara Pigott, executive director of Visit Fort Myers, shares how she’s transformed southwest Florida into a world-class destination that offers much more than gorgeous beaches.
    4. Carolann Ouellette, President of the Maine Office of Tourism, on how the outdoors is essential to the state’s economy and its communities.
    5. Brad Dean, President and CEO of Explore St. Louis, discusses why he chose the Gateway City over offers from New York and Chicago and how America’s heartland is ready for a renaissance.
    6. Patrick Kaler, president and CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara, talks about Buffalo’s rich architectural and Black history.
    7. Walt Leger, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company talks about the city’s vibe and where to go beyond the French Quarter.
    8. Helen Hill, executive director of Explore Charleston, talks about the importance of showing a city’s true history.
    9. Vic Isley, president and CEO of Explore Asheville, talks about the resilience of people and western North Carolina.

    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1693 no     Newark's Comeback, L.A.'s Wildfire Recovery, and This Summer's Travel Reality In this special Unpacked bonus episode, we're going behind the scenes of our newView From Afar podcast, which spotlights the people and the ideas shaping the future of travel. Afar editors traveled to the floor of IPW, the annual travel conference organized by the U.S. Travel Association to share the best of America with the rest of the world.  In this episode, we hear from Afar senior editor Michelle Baran, who conducted interviews over two intense days. She shares her takeaways from powerhouse leaders like Geoff Freeman of the U.S. Travel Association and United's Josh Earnest, plus inspiring destination chiefs who aren't shying away from tough conversations about what it means to welcome the world to America right now. On this episode you'll learn: How the "Big Beautiful Bill" cut Brand USA's funding by 80 percent and what that means for American tourism Why Newark Airport has made a complete 180 and might now be your best bet for New York area flights The real scope of L.A.'s wildfire damage (hint: it's much smaller than most Americans think) How destinations are balancing welcoming messaging with current political perceptions Don't miss these moments: [02:28] The revelation that Brand USA was only established after 9/11—America wasn't actively marketing itself before then [12:49] How Wisconsin transformed itself into a year-round destination that impressed this California native [18:39] Michelle's "therapy session" conversation with Visit Philadelphia's Angela Val about celebrating democracy [19:04] Why Fort Lauderdale's tourism chief is ready to take on Miami and champion LGBTQ+ travelers Explore More Head over to View From Afar to hear Michelle's full conversations with these tourism leaders: Anne Sayers, the Wisconsin Secretary of Tourism, talks about the state as a four-season destination—and the warm hospitality of Wisconsinites. Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC, discusses separating politics from place and D.C.'s record breaking tourism year. Caroline Beteta, President and CEO of Visit California, talks about how sustainable tourism is in California’s DNA. President and CEO of Choose Chicago, Kristen Reynolds talks about how Chicago celebrates diversity and inclusion (and the Pope, of course). Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale talks about Greater Fort Lauderdale’s impressive diversity and welcoming mindset. Josh Earnest, executive vice president of Communications and Advertising for United Airlines, shares Newark's turnaround, the importance of infrastructure investment, and what travelers can expect this summer in the air. Adam Burke, President and CEO of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, talks about the city's wildfire recovery and his dream of having 1 million people employed in the city’s tourism industry. Bill Hornbuckle, Chair of the U.S. Travel Association’s Board of Directors and President and CEO at MGM Resorts International, emphasizes the importance of government support for the travel industry. Executive Director of Visit Philadelphia Angela Val on the birthplace of democracy and Philly as a city for everyone. Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, talks about a decade of exciting events and how the country can make inbound travel easier for international visitors. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 25 Jul 2025 23:04:00 -0000 bonus Afar In this special Unpacked bonus episode, we're going behind the scenes of our newView From Afar podcast, which spotlights the people and the ideas shaping the future of travel. Afar editors traveled to the floor of IPW, the annual travel conference organized by the U.S. Travel Association to share the best of America with the rest of the world.  In this episode, we hear from Afar senior editor Michelle Baran, who conducted interviews over two intense days. She shares her takeaways from powerhouse leaders like Geoff Freeman of the U.S. Travel Association and United's Josh Earnest, plus inspiring destination chiefs who aren't shying away from tough conversations about what it means to welcome the world to America right now. On this episode you'll learn: How the "Big Beautiful Bill" cut Brand USA's funding by 80 percent and what that means for American tourism Why Newark Airport has made a complete 180 and might now be your best bet for New York area flights The real scope of L.A.'s wildfire damage (hint: it's much smaller than most Americans think) How destinations are balancing welcoming messaging with current political perceptions Don't miss these moments: [02:28] The revelation that Brand USA was only established after 9/11—America wasn't actively marketing itself before then [12:49] How Wisconsin transformed itself into a year-round destination that impressed this California native [18:39] Michelle's "therapy session" conversation with Visit Philadelphia's Angela Val about celebrating democracy [19:04] Why Fort Lauderdale's tourism chief is ready to take on Miami and champion LGBTQ+ travelers Explore More Head over to View From Afar to hear Michelle's full conversations with these tourism leaders: Anne Sayers, the Wisconsin Secretary of Tourism, talks about the state as a four-season destination—and the warm hospitality of Wisconsinites. Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC, discusses separating politics from place and D.C.'s record breaking tourism year. Caroline Beteta, President and CEO of Visit California, talks about how sustainable tourism is in California’s DNA. President and CEO of Choose Chicago, Kristen Reynolds talks about how Chicago celebrates diversity and inclusion (and the Pope, of course). Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale talks about Greater Fort Lauderdale’s impressive diversity and welcoming mindset. Josh Earnest, executive vice president of Communications and Advertising for United Airlines, shares Newark's turnaround, the importance of infrastructure investment, and what travelers can expect this summer in the air. Adam Burke, President and CEO of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, talks about the city's wildfire recovery and his dream of having 1 million people employed in the city’s tourism industry. Bill Hornbuckle, Chair of the U.S. Travel Association’s Board of Directors and President and CEO at MGM Resorts International, emphasizes the importance of government support for the travel industry. Executive Director of Visit Philadelphia Angela Val on the birthplace of democracy and Philly as a city for everyone. Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, talks about a decade of exciting events and how the country can make inbound travel easier for international visitors. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this special Unpacked bonus episode, we're going behind the scenes of our newView From Afar podcast, which spotlights the people and the ideas shaping the future of travel. Afar editors traveled to the floor of IPW, the annual travel conference organized by the U.S. Travel Association to share the best of America with the rest of the world. 

    In this episode, we hear from Afar senior editor Michelle Baran, who conducted interviews over two intense days. She shares her takeaways from powerhouse leaders like Geoff Freeman of the U.S. Travel Association and United's Josh Earnest, plus inspiring destination chiefs who aren't shying away from tough conversations about what it means to welcome the world to America right now.

    On this episode you'll learn:

    • How the "Big Beautiful Bill" cut Brand USA's funding by 80 percent and what that means for American tourism
    • Why Newark Airport has made a complete 180 and might now be your best bet for New York area flights
    • The real scope of L.A.'s wildfire damage (hint: it's much smaller than most Americans think)
    • How destinations are balancing welcoming messaging with current political perceptions

    Don't miss these moments: [02:28] The revelation that Brand USA was only established after 9/11—America wasn't actively marketing itself before then

    [12:49] How Wisconsin transformed itself into a year-round destination that impressed this California native

    [18:39] Michelle's "therapy session" conversation with Visit Philadelphia's Angela Val about celebrating democracy

    [19:04] Why Fort Lauderdale's tourism chief is ready to take on Miami and champion LGBTQ+ travelers

    Explore More

    Head over to View From Afar to hear Michelle's full conversations with these tourism leaders:

    1. Anne Sayers, the Wisconsin Secretary of Tourism, talks about the state as a four-season destination—and the warm hospitality of Wisconsinites.
    2. Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC, discusses separating politics from place and D.C.'s record breaking tourism year.
    3. Caroline Beteta, President and CEO of Visit California, talks about how sustainable tourism is in California’s DNA.
    4. President and CEO of Choose Chicago, Kristen Reynolds talks about how Chicago celebrates diversity and inclusion (and the Pope, of course).
    5. Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale talks about Greater Fort Lauderdale’s impressive diversity and welcoming mindset.
    6. Josh Earnest, executive vice president of Communications and Advertising for United Airlines, shares Newark's turnaround, the importance of infrastructure investment, and what travelers can expect this summer in the air.
    7. Adam Burke, President and CEO of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, talks about the city's wildfire recovery and his dream of having 1 million people employed in the city’s tourism industry.
    8. Bill Hornbuckle, Chair of the U.S. Travel Association’s Board of Directors and President and CEO at MGM Resorts International, emphasizes the importance of government support for the travel industry.
    9. Executive Director of Visit Philadelphia Angela Val on the birthplace of democracy and Philly as a city for everyone.
    10. Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, talks about a decade of exciting events and how the country can make inbound travel easier for international visitors.

    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1774 no     From Freezing to Steaming: A Minnesota Love Story Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a new mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. The mini series is part of Afar's "52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year" package, and in this inaugural episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Minnesota to explore how Finnish sauna culture has evolved into a uniquely American tradition. From Finnish homesteaders who built saunas before houses to modern Minnesotans discovering the healing power of heat and cold, this episode reveals how immigrant traditions don't just survive in America—they thrive and transform. Join us as we meet Leigha Horton who went from dreading Minnesota winters to co-running a nature retreat—Silvae Spiritus—centered around the ancient practice of sauna. On this episode you'll learn: Why Finnish immigrants prioritized building saunas over homes when they first arrived in Minnesota The science behind the "thermic cycle" and what actually happens to your body during hot-cold therapy How Native American sweat lodge traditions connect with Finnish sauna culture Why sauna culture is experiencing a renaissance across Minnesota today Don't miss these moments: The pronunciation debate: Why it's "sow-na," not "saw-na," and the Finnish grandmother who would hate you forever for getting it wrong Leigha's winter transformation from "actively wanting to hide or die six months out of the year" to loving the cold season The historical context of Finnish homesteaders building saunas first, then barns, then homes—and why women gave birth in saunas The full thermic cycle experience: breaking ice in buckets, ladling freezing water, and finding perfect comfort in a swimsuit during Minnesota winter The Finnish proverb that guides Minnesota's sauna renaissance: "All are created equal, but nowhere more so than in a sauna" Featured Guest: Leigha Horton, co-founder of Silvae Spiritus nature retreat in Finlayson, Minnesota Resources: Explore 51 more American traditions on afar.com. Book a thermic cycle at Silvae Spiritus Next Episode Preview Join us in the coming weeks as we continue celebrating America's 250th anniversary by exploring more traditions that immigrants brought to America and transformed into something uniquely our own. On July 27, we will dive in the celebratory world of go-go music in D.C. See you then! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 14 Jul 2025 07:01:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a new mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. The mini series is part of Afar's "52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year" package, and in this inaugural episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Minnesota to explore how Finnish sauna culture has evolved into a uniquely American tradition. From Finnish homesteaders who built saunas before houses to modern Minnesotans discovering the healing power of heat and cold, this episode reveals how immigrant traditions don't just survive in America—they thrive and transform. Join us as we meet Leigha Horton who went from dreading Minnesota winters to co-running a nature retreat—Silvae Spiritus—centered around the ancient practice of sauna. On this episode you'll learn: Why Finnish immigrants prioritized building saunas over homes when they first arrived in Minnesota The science behind the "thermic cycle" and what actually happens to your body during hot-cold therapy How Native American sweat lodge traditions connect with Finnish sauna culture Why sauna culture is experiencing a renaissance across Minnesota today Don't miss these moments: The pronunciation debate: Why it's "sow-na," not "saw-na," and the Finnish grandmother who would hate you forever for getting it wrong Leigha's winter transformation from "actively wanting to hide or die six months out of the year" to loving the cold season The historical context of Finnish homesteaders building saunas first, then barns, then homes—and why women gave birth in saunas The full thermic cycle experience: breaking ice in buckets, ladling freezing water, and finding perfect comfort in a swimsuit during Minnesota winter The Finnish proverb that guides Minnesota's sauna renaissance: "All are created equal, but nowhere more so than in a sauna" Featured Guest: Leigha Horton, co-founder of Silvae Spiritus nature retreat in Finlayson, Minnesota Resources: Explore 51 more American traditions on afar.com. Book a thermic cycle at Silvae Spiritus Next Episode Preview Join us in the coming weeks as we continue celebrating America's 250th anniversary by exploring more traditions that immigrants brought to America and transformed into something uniquely our own. On July 27, we will dive in the celebratory world of go-go music in D.C. See you then! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a new mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. The mini series is part of Afar's "52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year" package, and in this inaugural episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Minnesota to explore how Finnish sauna culture has evolved into a uniquely American tradition.

    From Finnish homesteaders who built saunas before houses to modern Minnesotans discovering the healing power of heat and cold, this episode reveals how immigrant traditions don't just survive in America—they thrive and transform. Join us as we meet Leigha Horton who went from dreading Minnesota winters to co-running a nature retreat—Silvae Spiritus—centered around the ancient practice of sauna.

    On this episode you'll learn:

    • Why Finnish immigrants prioritized building saunas over homes when they first arrived in Minnesota
    • The science behind the "thermic cycle" and what actually happens to your body during hot-cold therapy
    • How Native American sweat lodge traditions connect with Finnish sauna culture
    • Why sauna culture is experiencing a renaissance across Minnesota today

    Don't miss these moments:

    • The pronunciation debate: Why it's "sow-na," not "saw-na," and the Finnish grandmother who would hate you forever for getting it wrong
    • Leigha's winter transformation from "actively wanting to hide or die six months out of the year" to loving the cold season
    • The historical context of Finnish homesteaders building saunas first, then barns, then homes—and why women gave birth in saunas
    • The full thermic cycle experience: breaking ice in buckets, ladling freezing water, and finding perfect comfort in a swimsuit during Minnesota winter
    • The Finnish proverb that guides Minnesota's sauna renaissance: "All are created equal, but nowhere more so than in a sauna"

    Featured Guest: Leigha Horton, co-founder of Silvae Spiritus nature retreat in Finlayson, Minnesota

    Resources:

    Next Episode Preview Join us in the coming weeks as we continue celebrating America's 250th anniversary by exploring more traditions that immigrants brought to America and transformed into something uniquely our own.


    On July 27, we will dive in the celebratory world of go-go music in D.C. See you then!

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     737 no     What Happens After You Buy That One-Euro Italian House? Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a new series where we go behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with Afar contributing writer Lisa Abend, who recently traveled to Sicily to investigate the viral phenomenon of European countries selling homes for one euro. Based in Copenhagen, Lisa explores what really happens after the headlines fade—both for the buyers chasing their dreams and the Sicilian communities welcoming newcomers. She shares what it's like to be an outsider in a tight-knit village, the reality behind those too-good-to-be-true property deals, and why the distinctively Sicilian spirit still dominates despite an influx of foreign buyers. On this episode you'll learn: The real story behind Sicily's one-euro house program and what buyers actually get for their money How small Sicilian towns are responding to an influx of foreign buyers and what "welcoming" really looks like Why most one-euro house purchases take much longer and cost far more than buyers expect Don't miss these moments: [02:30] Lisa's first impressions of Sambuca di Sicilia and the feeling of being watched as an outsider [04:15] The elderly café customer who seemed hostile but just wanted to ask about his New Jersey cousins [06:45] Danny McCubbin's journey from Jamie Oliver collaborator to Mussomeli community member—and dream crusher [09:20] Why buying a one-euro house doesn't guarantee a residence permit or the right to drive [12:10] The difference between one-euro ruins and Lisa's dream 50,000-euro house with pizza oven potential Resources Read Lisa's complete Afar story about Sicily's one-euro houses. Follow Lisa Abend on Instagram for more European travel insights. Subscribe to Lisa's newsletter, the Unplugged Traveler, where she explores Europe without using the internet. Next Episode Preview Join Katherine in two weeks when she speaks with Peggy Orenstein, author and Afar contributing writer, who traveled to Busan, South Korea, and discovered a new love for the "second cities of the world." Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 04 Jul 2025 07:01:00 -0000 full Afar Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a new series where we go behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with Afar contributing writer Lisa Abend, who recently traveled to Sicily to investigate the viral phenomenon of European countries selling homes for one euro. Based in Copenhagen, Lisa explores what really happens after the headlines fade—both for the buyers chasing their dreams and the Sicilian communities welcoming newcomers. She shares what it's like to be an outsider in a tight-knit village, the reality behind those too-good-to-be-true property deals, and why the distinctively Sicilian spirit still dominates despite an influx of foreign buyers. On this episode you'll learn: The real story behind Sicily's one-euro house program and what buyers actually get for their money How small Sicilian towns are responding to an influx of foreign buyers and what "welcoming" really looks like Why most one-euro house purchases take much longer and cost far more than buyers expect Don't miss these moments: [02:30] Lisa's first impressions of Sambuca di Sicilia and the feeling of being watched as an outsider [04:15] The elderly café customer who seemed hostile but just wanted to ask about his New Jersey cousins [06:45] Danny McCubbin's journey from Jamie Oliver collaborator to Mussomeli community member—and dream crusher [09:20] Why buying a one-euro house doesn't guarantee a residence permit or the right to drive [12:10] The difference between one-euro ruins and Lisa's dream 50,000-euro house with pizza oven potential Resources Read Lisa's complete Afar story about Sicily's one-euro houses. Follow Lisa Abend on Instagram for more European travel insights. Subscribe to Lisa's newsletter, the Unplugged Traveler, where she explores Europe without using the internet. Next Episode Preview Join Katherine in two weeks when she speaks with Peggy Orenstein, author and Afar contributing writer, who traveled to Busan, South Korea, and discovered a new love for the "second cities of the world." Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a new series where we go behind the scenes of one great travel story.

    In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with Afar contributing writer Lisa Abend, who recently traveled to Sicily to investigate the viral phenomenon of European countries selling homes for one euro. Based in Copenhagen, Lisa explores what really happens after the headlines fade—both for the buyers chasing their dreams and the Sicilian communities welcoming newcomers.

    She shares what it's like to be an outsider in a tight-knit village, the reality behind those too-good-to-be-true property deals, and why the distinctively Sicilian spirit still dominates despite an influx of foreign buyers.

    On this episode you'll learn:

    • The real story behind Sicily's one-euro house program and what buyers actually get for their money
    • How small Sicilian towns are responding to an influx of foreign buyers and what "welcoming" really looks like
    • Why most one-euro house purchases take much longer and cost far more than buyers expect

    Don't miss these moments: [02:30] Lisa's first impressions of Sambuca di Sicilia and the feeling of being watched as an outsider [04:15] The elderly café customer who seemed hostile but just wanted to ask about his New Jersey cousins [06:45] Danny McCubbin's journey from Jamie Oliver collaborator to Mussomeli community member—and dream crusher [09:20] Why buying a one-euro house doesn't guarantee a residence permit or the right to drive [12:10] The difference between one-euro ruins and Lisa's dream 50,000-euro house with pizza oven potential

    Resources

    • Read Lisa's complete Afar story about Sicily's one-euro houses.
    • Follow Lisa Abend on Instagram for more European travel insights.
    • Subscribe to Lisa's newsletter, the Unplugged Traveler, where she explores Europe without using the internet.

    Next Episode Preview Join Katherine in two weeks when she speaks with Peggy Orenstein, author and Afar contributing writer, who traveled to Busan, South Korea, and discovered a new love for the "second cities of the world."

    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1221 no     Unpacked Minis, Five Questions: For One Writer, This Ancient Chinese City Always Feels New Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a new series where we go behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with author and journalist Bonnie Tsui, whose father has lived in Guangzhou, China, for decades. In the 2025 Culture Issue of Afar she writes about how a recent trip to the city transformed three generations of relationships. She shares tips for first-time visitors, why you should visit Guangzhou for the food, and the ways one city can bridge past and present, family and identity. On this episode you’ll learn: • The ways that Guangzhou’s evolving identity mirror the Asian American experience. • Why Cantonese desserts are an underrated and essential part of Guangzhou’s food culture • How first-time travelers to China can adjust to the country’s mobile payment norms.  Don’t miss these moments: [01:14] Complicated relationships between China, the Chinese diaspora and familial roots. [05:45] Cantonese desserts to capture any foodie’s heart. [08:44] Tips for first-time travelers to China—and the app that makes everything easier. [10:11] Guangzhou Tower and Shamian Island: a meeting of East and West, old and new.  Resources Read the transcript of this episode.  Read Bonnie’s complete feature story about Guangzhou, China in Afar’s 2025 Culture Issue. Read Bonnie’s story, What Chinatown Means to America—and to Me on afar.com.  Explore more of Bonnie’s work and buy her new book, On Muscle.  Listen to this episode of Travel Tales where Bonnie swims to the soul of Switzerland.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of Airwave Media's podcast network. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 23 May 2025 04:01:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a new series where we go behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with author and journalist Bonnie Tsui, whose father has lived in Guangzhou, China, for decades. In the 2025 Culture Issue of Afar she writes about how a recent trip to the city transformed three generations of relationships. She shares tips for first-time visitors, why you should visit Guangzhou for the food, and the ways one city can bridge past and present, family and identity. On this episode you’ll learn: • The ways that Guangzhou’s evolving identity mirror the Asian American experience. • Why Cantonese desserts are an underrated and essential part of Guangzhou’s food culture • How first-time travelers to China can adjust to the country’s mobile payment norms.  Don’t miss these moments: [01:14] Complicated relationships between China, the Chinese diaspora and familial roots. [05:45] Cantonese desserts to capture any foodie’s heart. [08:44] Tips for first-time travelers to China—and the app that makes everything easier. [10:11] Guangzhou Tower and Shamian Island: a meeting of East and West, old and new.  Resources Read the transcript of this episode.  Read Bonnie’s complete feature story about Guangzhou, China in Afar’s 2025 Culture Issue. Read Bonnie’s story, What Chinatown Means to America—and to Me on afar.com.  Explore more of Bonnie’s work and buy her new book, On Muscle.  Listen to this episode of Travel Tales where Bonnie swims to the soul of Switzerland.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of Airwave Media's podcast network. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a new series where we go behind the scenes of one great travel story.

    In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with author and journalist Bonnie Tsui, whose father has lived in Guangzhou, China, for decades. In the 2025 Culture Issue of Afar she writes about how a recent trip to the city transformed three generations of relationships.

    She shares tips for first-time visitors, why you should visit Guangzhou for the food, and the ways one city can bridge past and present, family and identity.


    On this episode you’ll learn:

    • The ways that Guangzhou’s evolving identity mirror the Asian American experience.

    • Why Cantonese desserts are an underrated and essential part of Guangzhou’s food culture

    • How first-time travelers to China can adjust to the country’s mobile payment norms. 


    Don’t miss these moments:

    [01:14] Complicated relationships between China, the Chinese diaspora and familial roots.

    [05:45] Cantonese desserts to capture any foodie’s heart.

    [08:44] Tips for first-time travelers to China—and the app that makes everything easier.

    [10:11] Guangzhou Tower and Shamian Island: a meeting of East and West, old and new. 

    Resources

    Read the transcript of this episode. 

    Read Bonnie’s complete feature story about Guangzhou, China in Afar’s 2025 Culture Issue.

    Read Bonnie’s story, What Chinatown Means to America—and to Me on afar.com. 

    Explore more of Bonnie’s work and buy her new book, On Muscle. 

    Listen to this episode of Travel Tales where Bonnie swims to the soul of Switzerland. 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Unpacked by Afar is part of Airwave Media's podcast network. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1054 no     Unpacked Minis, Five Questions: For Some of the World’s Most Exciting Wines, Travel to Mexico Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a new series where we go behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this inaugural episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with award-winning writer Anya von Bremzen to discuss her journey through Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico's exciting wine region just two hours from San Diego, which she wrote about in Afar's spring issue. Von Bremzen, a James Beard Award-winning culinary writer who recently published National Dish in 2023, shares why this area is the fascinating "anti-Napa" and worth the bumpy ride. On this episode you'll learn: Why Valle de Guadalupe is emerging as one of North America's most exciting wine regions How the region's lack of established traditions is fostering incredible creativity Why female winemakers are flourishing in this innovative Mexican wine country What makes the region's difficult access part of its charm and protection Don't miss these moments: [04:12] Why "bad roads make good tourists" according to local winemakers [05:05] Anya's favorite natural wines from the region, including an amber sauvignon blanc called "La Poubelle" (trash can) [08:20] The surprising prevalence of women winemakers in a traditionally patriarchal country [10:15] How Valle de Guadalupe's freedom from tradition allows for experimental winemaking that would "make Europeans faint" Featured in this episode: Lunario - Michelin green-sustainability-star restaurant Silvana Pijoan - Natural winemaker of La Poubelle amber sauvignon blanc at Pijoan Winery Veronica Santiago - Winemaker at Mina Penelope Winery Lulú Martínez Ojeda - Winemaker at Bruma who trained in Bordeaux David Castro Hussong - Chef at Bruma Karina Campos - Guide from Baja Wine, Eat and Travel Resources: Read Anya's complete feature story on Valle de Guadalupe in AFAR's 2025 Culture issue. Explore more of Anya's work in her 2023 book National Dish, which examines iconic dishes from Paris, Tokyo, Istanbul, and beyond. Follow Anya on Instagram and Twitter for more culinary explorations. Join host Katherine LaGrave in two weeks for a conversation with AFAR contributing writer Bonnie Tsui about her journey to Guangzhou, China, and her new book, On Muscle. Follow AFAR Media on Instagram and TikTok @AfarMedia. Subscribe, rate, and review Unpacked, Five Questions on your favorite podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 09 May 2025 07:01:00 -0000 bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a new series where we go behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this inaugural episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with award-winning writer Anya von Bremzen to discuss her journey through Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico's exciting wine region just two hours from San Diego, which she wrote about in Afar's spring issue. Von Bremzen, a James Beard Award-winning culinary writer who recently published National Dish in 2023, shares why this area is the fascinating "anti-Napa" and worth the bumpy ride. On this episode you'll learn: Why Valle de Guadalupe is emerging as one of North America's most exciting wine regions How the region's lack of established traditions is fostering incredible creativity Why female winemakers are flourishing in this innovative Mexican wine country What makes the region's difficult access part of its charm and protection Don't miss these moments: [04:12] Why "bad roads make good tourists" according to local winemakers [05:05] Anya's favorite natural wines from the region, including an amber sauvignon blanc called "La Poubelle" (trash can) [08:20] The surprising prevalence of women winemakers in a traditionally patriarchal country [10:15] How Valle de Guadalupe's freedom from tradition allows for experimental winemaking that would "make Europeans faint" Featured in this episode: Lunario - Michelin green-sustainability-star restaurant Silvana Pijoan - Natural winemaker of La Poubelle amber sauvignon blanc at Pijoan Winery Veronica Santiago - Winemaker at Mina Penelope Winery Lulú Martínez Ojeda - Winemaker at Bruma who trained in Bordeaux David Castro Hussong - Chef at Bruma Karina Campos - Guide from Baja Wine, Eat and Travel Resources: Read Anya's complete feature story on Valle de Guadalupe in AFAR's 2025 Culture issue. Explore more of Anya's work in her 2023 book National Dish, which examines iconic dishes from Paris, Tokyo, Istanbul, and beyond. Follow Anya on Instagram and Twitter for more culinary explorations. Join host Katherine LaGrave in two weeks for a conversation with AFAR contributing writer Bonnie Tsui about her journey to Guangzhou, China, and her new book, On Muscle. Follow AFAR Media on Instagram and TikTok @AfarMedia. Subscribe, rate, and review Unpacked, Five Questions on your favorite podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a new series where we go behind the scenes of one great travel story.

    In this inaugural episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with award-winning writer Anya von Bremzen to discuss her journey through Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico's exciting wine region just two hours from San Diego, which she wrote about in Afar's spring issue.

    Von Bremzen, a James Beard Award-winning culinary writer who recently published National Dish in 2023, shares why this area is the fascinating "anti-Napa" and worth the bumpy ride.

    On this episode you'll learn:

    • Why Valle de Guadalupe is emerging as one of North America's most exciting wine regions
    • How the region's lack of established traditions is fostering incredible creativity
    • Why female winemakers are flourishing in this innovative Mexican wine country
    • What makes the region's difficult access part of its charm and protection


    Don't miss these moments:

    [04:12] Why "bad roads make good tourists" according to local winemakers [05:05] Anya's favorite natural wines from the region, including an amber sauvignon blanc called "La Poubelle" (trash can) [08:20] The surprising prevalence of women winemakers in a traditionally patriarchal country [10:15] How Valle de Guadalupe's freedom from tradition allows for experimental winemaking that would "make Europeans faint"


    Featured in this episode:

    Resources:

    • Read Anya's complete feature story on Valle de Guadalupe in AFAR's 2025 Culture issue.
    • Explore more of Anya's work in her 2023 book National Dish, which examines iconic dishes from Paris, Tokyo, Istanbul, and beyond.
    • Follow Anya on Instagram and Twitter for more culinary explorations.
    • Join host Katherine LaGrave in two weeks for a conversation with AFAR contributing writer Bonnie Tsui about her journey to Guangzhou, China, and her new book, On Muscle.

    Follow AFAR Media on Instagram and TikTok @AfarMedia.

    Subscribe, rate, and review Unpacked, Five Questions on your favorite podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1033 no     Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition: The Culinary Trends Shaping the Way We Eat at Sea In 2025, wellness is the main ingredient at sea. From elaborate tea houses to shopping excursions with the chef—these are the fresh ways that cruise lines are shedding their overindulgent reputations.  On this episode of Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition, host Aislyn Greene sits down at F&B@Sea—the culinary showcase at Miami's Seatrade Cruise Global conference—with David Yeskel, a travel and food journalist who has covered cruising for 20 years. Together they uncover the most surprising—and delicious—trends shaping what we eat at sea. On this episode you’ll learn:  Why cruise lines are embracing plant-based menus—and what that means for travelers.  How sourcing local ingredients works (and why small ships are able to lead the way).  The ways that shoreline dining trends are making their way aboard cruise lines.  Don’t miss these moments:  [02:48] Why swapping bars for tea houses is on trend in  2025.  [05:25] Unique and inclusive food options at every level of the industry.   [08:11] Sourcing local food? Sometimes it means taking travelers shopping with the chef.  Featured in this episode:  Virgin Voyages MSC Cruises Carnival Cruise Line Holland America Line Celebrity Princess Oceania Viking Cruises Azamara Cruises Explora Journeys Seabourn Cruises Celestyal Cruises Cunard  Resources:  Read the transcript of this episode.  Explore more of David’s work on his website or follow him on LinkedIn. Listen to other Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition, like this one about innovations or this one about finding a cruise travel advisor.  Looking for more content from Seatrade Global? Check out our sister podcast View From Afar, by the travel industry for the travel industry.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 08 May 2025 18:21:00 -0000 bonus Afar In 2025, wellness is the main ingredient at sea. From elaborate tea houses to shopping excursions with the chef—these are the fresh ways that cruise lines are shedding their overindulgent reputations.  On this episode of Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition, host Aislyn Greene sits down at F&B@Sea—the culinary showcase at Miami's Seatrade Cruise Global conference—with David Yeskel, a travel and food journalist who has covered cruising for 20 years. Together they uncover the most surprising—and delicious—trends shaping what we eat at sea. On this episode you’ll learn:  Why cruise lines are embracing plant-based menus—and what that means for travelers.  How sourcing local ingredients works (and why small ships are able to lead the way).  The ways that shoreline dining trends are making their way aboard cruise lines.  Don’t miss these moments:  [02:48] Why swapping bars for tea houses is on trend in  2025.  [05:25] Unique and inclusive food options at every level of the industry.   [08:11] Sourcing local food? Sometimes it means taking travelers shopping with the chef.  Featured in this episode:  Virgin Voyages MSC Cruises Carnival Cruise Line Holland America Line Celebrity Princess Oceania Viking Cruises Azamara Cruises Explora Journeys Seabourn Cruises Celestyal Cruises Cunard  Resources:  Read the transcript of this episode.  Explore more of David’s work on his website or follow him on LinkedIn. Listen to other Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition, like this one about innovations or this one about finding a cruise travel advisor.  Looking for more content from Seatrade Global? Check out our sister podcast View From Afar, by the travel industry for the travel industry.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In 2025, wellness is the main ingredient at sea. From elaborate tea houses to shopping excursions with the chef—these are the fresh ways that cruise lines are shedding their overindulgent reputations. 

    On this episode of Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition, host Aislyn Greene sits down at F&B@Sea—the culinary showcase at Miami's Seatrade Cruise Global conference—with David Yeskel, a travel and food journalist who has covered cruising for 20 years. Together they uncover the most surprising—and delicious—trends shaping what we eat at sea.


    On this episode you’ll learn: 

    • Why cruise lines are embracing plant-based menus—and what that means for travelers. 

    • How sourcing local ingredients works (and why small ships are able to lead the way). 

    • The ways that shoreline dining trends are making their way aboard cruise lines. 

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [02:48] Why swapping bars for tea houses is on trend in  2025. 

    [05:25] Unique and inclusive food options at every level of the industry.  

    [08:11] Sourcing local food? Sometimes it means taking travelers shopping with the chef. 


    Featured in this episode: 

    Virgin Voyages

    MSC Cruises

    Carnival Cruise Line

    Holland America Line

    Celebrity

    Princess

    Oceania

    Viking Cruises

    Azamara Cruises

    Explora Journeys

    Seabourn Cruises

    Celestyal Cruises

    Cunard 


    Resources: 

    Read the transcript of this episode. 

    Explore more of David’s work on his website or follow him on LinkedIn.

    Listen to other Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition, like this one about innovations or this one about finding a cruise travel advisor. 

    Looking for more content from Seatrade Global? Check out our sister podcast View From Afar, by the travel industry for the travel industry. 


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1210 no     Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition: The Five Innovations You’ll See on Your Next Cruise Ship Peek into the colorful, immersive, and luxurious innovations shaping the future of cruising—straight from the floor of Seatrade Cruise Global, one of the cruise industry's most important events. From flying theaters to floating pickleball courts, this episode of Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition takes you behind-the-scenes of the surprising sights (and smells) making waves in cruising.  The luxury innovations taking cruises and yachts to the next level.  How cruise ships utilize technology to create immersive experiences for guests  Which innovations were revealed on the floor of Seatrade 2025.  Don’t miss these moments:  [02:30]  Bike the Great Wall of China on your next cruise.  [03:54] The sights and smells that a cruise ships bottle up.  [08:33] Party-banas and a floating pickleball court.  [11:57] What does pouring resin on a bear have to do with eco-cruising? [15:46] Behind the scenes of Disney Cruises’ immersive experiences. Special Thanks To: DOF Robotics Froggy's Fog Aquabanas Bolidt Zenko and  HF Interior Resources: Read the transcript of this episode.   Explore other Unpacked cruise content, like this episode about sustainable cruising, or this one about finding the right cruise for you.  Follow Afar for all the ⁠cruise news⁠ you need to know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 01 May 2025 22:35:00 -0000 bonus Afar Peek into the colorful, immersive, and luxurious innovations shaping the future of cruising—straight from the floor of Seatrade Cruise Global, one of the cruise industry's most important events. From flying theaters to floating pickleball courts, this episode of Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition takes you behind-the-scenes of the surprising sights (and smells) making waves in cruising.  The luxury innovations taking cruises and yachts to the next level.  How cruise ships utilize technology to create immersive experiences for guests  Which innovations were revealed on the floor of Seatrade 2025.  Don’t miss these moments:  [02:30]  Bike the Great Wall of China on your next cruise.  [03:54] The sights and smells that a cruise ships bottle up.  [08:33] Party-banas and a floating pickleball court.  [11:57] What does pouring resin on a bear have to do with eco-cruising? [15:46] Behind the scenes of Disney Cruises’ immersive experiences. Special Thanks To: DOF Robotics Froggy's Fog Aquabanas Bolidt Zenko and  HF Interior Resources: Read the transcript of this episode.   Explore other Unpacked cruise content, like this episode about sustainable cruising, or this one about finding the right cruise for you.  Follow Afar for all the ⁠cruise news⁠ you need to know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Peek into the colorful, immersive, and luxurious innovations shaping the future of cruising—straight from the floor of Seatrade Cruise Global, one of the cruise industry's most important events.

    From flying theaters to floating pickleball courts, this episode of Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition takes you behind-the-scenes of the surprising sights (and smells) making waves in cruising. 

    • The luxury innovations taking cruises and yachts to the next level. 

    • How cruise ships utilize technology to create immersive experiences for guests 

    • Which innovations were revealed on the floor of Seatrade 2025. 

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [02:30]  Bike the Great Wall of China on your next cruise. 

    [03:54] The sights and smells that a cruise ships bottle up. 

    [08:33] Party-banas and a floating pickleball court. 

    [11:57] What does pouring resin on a bear have to do with eco-cruising?

    [15:46] Behind the scenes of Disney Cruises’ immersive experiences.

    Special Thanks To:

    DOF Robotics

    Froggy's Fog

    Aquabanas

    Bolidt

    Zenko and  HF Interior

    Resources:

    Read the transcript of this episode.

     

    Explore other Unpacked cruise content, like this episode about sustainable cruising, or this one about finding the right cruise for you. 


    Follow Afar for all the ⁠cruise news⁠ you need to know.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1421 no     I Traveled Through 300 Years of Kyoto's History—All From One Hotel With just five years under it's belt, Hotel the Mitsui has already stood the test of time. Housed in the former estate of one of Japan's most influential families, this five-star hotel is full of details that help guests see the rich traditions of Kyoto with a fresh pair of eyes. In this “If These Walls Could Talk” episode of Unpacked, Aislyn Greene takes you on a tour of the stories—and secrets—that a hotel can reveal about the places we visit. On this episode you’ll learn:  What it’s like to stay at Hotel the Mitsui, one of Japan’s most luxurious and historic hotels.  The ways that interior architect Andre Fu collaborated with local artisans to bring guests an intimate journey through Kyoto culture.  How Japanese tea ceremony traditions have evolved over time.  Don’t miss these moments:  [03:24] Step into a mystical journey through time.  [11:39] What do samurai, monks, and matcha have in common?  [19:43] Intimate and local: How artisans nod to the soul of Kyoto Resources:  Read the full transcript. Book a stay at Hotel the Mitsui or follow their Instagram.  Check out Andre Fu's work on his website. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 24 Apr 2025 22:23:00 -0000 full Afar With just five years under it's belt, Hotel the Mitsui has already stood the test of time. Housed in the former estate of one of Japan's most influential families, this five-star hotel is full of details that help guests see the rich traditions of Kyoto with a fresh pair of eyes. In this “If These Walls Could Talk” episode of Unpacked, Aislyn Greene takes you on a tour of the stories—and secrets—that a hotel can reveal about the places we visit. On this episode you’ll learn:  What it’s like to stay at Hotel the Mitsui, one of Japan’s most luxurious and historic hotels.  The ways that interior architect Andre Fu collaborated with local artisans to bring guests an intimate journey through Kyoto culture.  How Japanese tea ceremony traditions have evolved over time.  Don’t miss these moments:  [03:24] Step into a mystical journey through time.  [11:39] What do samurai, monks, and matcha have in common?  [19:43] Intimate and local: How artisans nod to the soul of Kyoto Resources:  Read the full transcript. Book a stay at Hotel the Mitsui or follow their Instagram.  Check out Andre Fu's work on his website. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices With just five years under it's belt, Hotel the Mitsui has already stood the test of time. Housed in the former estate of one of Japan's most influential families, this five-star hotel is full of details that help guests see the rich traditions of Kyoto with a fresh pair of eyes.


    In this “If These Walls Could Talk” episode of Unpacked, Aislyn Greene takes you on a tour of the stories—and secrets—that a hotel can reveal about the places we visit.


    On this episode you’ll learn: 

    • What it’s like to stay at Hotel the Mitsui, one of Japan’s most luxurious and historic hotels. 
    • The ways that interior architect Andre Fu collaborated with local artisans to bring guests an intimate journey through Kyoto culture. 
    • How Japanese tea ceremony traditions have evolved over time. 



    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [03:24] Step into a mystical journey through time. 

    [11:39] What do samurai, monks, and matcha have in common? 

    [19:43] Intimate and local: How artisans nod to the soul of Kyoto



    Resources: 

    Read the full transcript.

    Book a stay at Hotel the Mitsui or follow their Instagram. 

    Check out Andre Fu's work on his website.



    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.


    ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1630 no     “Nobody Knows We’re Here.” Inside the Real D.C. This isn’t Washington, it’s D.C.—and it belongs to the people. On this episode of Unpacked, join host Aislyn Greene as she meets the D.C. locals who are shaping the city. They share the diverse communities, places, and histories that make the district unique. From a blossoming food scene to thriving cultural legacies, discover the D.C. that most tourists miss.  In this episode, you’ll learn Histories to explore beyond the National Mall.  How locals experience the vibrancy of D.C.’s food, culture and art scenes.  What makes some of D.C.’s most historic neighborhoods—such as the U Street Corridor and Dupont Circle—really shine.  Don’t miss these moments [03:25] Aerosmith, the Smithsonian, and the oddball story that started it all.  [09:58] Diverse foods and divisive fruits in a cult-favorite restaurant.  [20:01] 250 artists in 2 miles: A creative community far beyond the capital city.  [35:17] Touring a temple of musical icons.  [36:11] They started this legendary festival with a napkin.  Meet this week’s guests Sunny Sumter, the president and CEO of the DC Jazz Fest Jeff Miller, founder of the DC Cycling Concierge Marquett Milton, historic interpreter at the African American Civil War Museum Kevin Tien, the executive chef and owner of Moon Rabbit Monica Alford, founder and CEO of Wild Side Media  Resources —Read the transcript of this episode.  —Listen to Chuck Brown’s version of “It Don’t Mean a Thing.” —Explore Joe Brotherton's music. Want to plan your own DC trip? Aislyn shares a Google Map and her full itinerary here. Where to Stay Eaton DC Rosewood DC Salamander DC >>>Explore even more of Afar's favorite hotels in Washington D.C. Where to Eat and Drink Moon Rabbit The Press Club DC Oyster Oyster,  A. Kitchen + Bar St Vincent Wine (for live jazz) Lutece River Club DC Fiola Mare Dogon Yellow Georgetown Baked & Wired Buck’s Fishing and Camping Activities Bike tour with DC Cycling Concierge Walking tour with U Street Time Travel Walking tour with DC Design Tours Arena Stage Culture House National Portrait Gallery  >>>Explore more places to eat and explore with Afar's D.C. travel guide. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 18 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0000 full Afar This isn’t Washington, it’s D.C.—and it belongs to the people. On this episode of Unpacked, join host Aislyn Greene as she meets the D.C. locals who are shaping the city. They share the diverse communities, places, and histories that make the district unique. From a blossoming food scene to thriving cultural legacies, discover the D.C. that most tourists miss.  In this episode, you’ll learn Histories to explore beyond the National Mall.  How locals experience the vibrancy of D.C.’s food, culture and art scenes.  What makes some of D.C.’s most historic neighborhoods—such as the U Street Corridor and Dupont Circle—really shine.  Don’t miss these moments [03:25] Aerosmith, the Smithsonian, and the oddball story that started it all.  [09:58] Diverse foods and divisive fruits in a cult-favorite restaurant.  [20:01] 250 artists in 2 miles: A creative community far beyond the capital city.  [35:17] Touring a temple of musical icons.  [36:11] They started this legendary festival with a napkin.  Meet this week’s guests Sunny Sumter, the president and CEO of the DC Jazz Fest Jeff Miller, founder of the DC Cycling Concierge Marquett Milton, historic interpreter at the African American Civil War Museum Kevin Tien, the executive chef and owner of Moon Rabbit Monica Alford, founder and CEO of Wild Side Media  Resources —Read the transcript of this episode.  —Listen to Chuck Brown’s version of “It Don’t Mean a Thing.” —Explore Joe Brotherton's music. Want to plan your own DC trip? Aislyn shares a Google Map and her full itinerary here. Where to Stay Eaton DC Rosewood DC Salamander DC >>>Explore even more of Afar's favorite hotels in Washington D.C. Where to Eat and Drink Moon Rabbit The Press Club DC Oyster Oyster,  A. Kitchen + Bar St Vincent Wine (for live jazz) Lutece River Club DC Fiola Mare Dogon Yellow Georgetown Baked & Wired Buck’s Fishing and Camping Activities Bike tour with DC Cycling Concierge Walking tour with U Street Time Travel Walking tour with DC Design Tours Arena Stage Culture House National Portrait Gallery  >>>Explore more places to eat and explore with Afar's D.C. travel guide. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This isn’t Washington, it’s D.C.—and it belongs to the people. On this episode of Unpacked, join host Aislyn Greene as she meets the D.C. locals who are shaping the city. They share the diverse communities, places, and histories that make the district unique. From a blossoming food scene to thriving cultural legacies, discover the D.C. that most tourists miss. 



    In this episode, you’ll learn

    • Histories to explore beyond the National Mall. 
    • How locals experience the vibrancy of D.C.’s food, culture and art scenes. 
    • What makes some of D.C.’s most historic neighborhoods—such as the U Street Corridor and Dupont Circle—really shine. 

    Don’t miss these moments

    [03:25] Aerosmith, the Smithsonian, and the oddball story that started it all. 

    [09:58] Diverse foods and divisive fruits in a cult-favorite restaurant. 

    [20:01] 250 artists in 2 miles: A creative community far beyond the capital city. 

    [35:17] Touring a temple of musical icons. 

    [36:11] They started this legendary festival with a napkin. 



    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources

    —Read the transcript of this episode. 

    —Listen to Chuck Brown’s version of “It Don’t Mean a Thing.”

    —Explore Joe Brotherton's music.


    Want to plan your own DC trip? Aislyn shares a Google Map and her full itinerary here.


    Where to Stay

    Eaton DC

    Rosewood DC

    Salamander DC

    >>>Explore even more of Afar's favorite hotels in Washington D.C.


    Where to Eat and Drink

    Moon Rabbit

    The Press Club DC

    Oyster Oyster, 

    A. Kitchen + Bar

    St Vincent Wine (for live jazz)

    Lutece

    River Club DC

    Fiola Mare

    Dogon

    Yellow Georgetown

    Baked & Wired

    Buck’s Fishing and Camping


    Activities

    Bike tour with DC Cycling Concierge

    Walking tour with U Street Time Travel

    Walking tour with DC Design Tours

    Arena Stage

    Culture House

    National Portrait Gallery 

    >>>Explore more places to eat and explore with Afar's D.C. travel guide.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.


    ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3270 no     These Two Cruise Lines Are Charting a Surprising Path to a Better, Healthier World https://www.afar.com/travel-inspiration/unpacked When it comes to the future of cruising, sustainability is steering the ship. On this episode of Unpacked, Afar cruise expert and deputy editor, Michelle Baran, takes you to Seatrade, one of the cruise industry's most important events for a panel discussion that asks the question: Is sustainable cruising the new luxury cruising? From wind-powered voyages to community-centered tourism, she uncovers the surprising and inspiring ways two of the industry's greenest cruise lines, Hurtigruten and Sea Cloud Cruises, are charting the way to a sustainable future. We'll unpack more of the trends and innovations coming out of Seatrade in coming weeks—stay tuned! Why Small Ships Make Big Waves in Modern Cruising On this episode, you’ll learn:  How smaller ships create opportunities for travelers to contribute to local communities.  Tips to spot the difference between genuine sustainability and “greenwashing” in cruising.  The unique ways that cruise lines are confronting overtourism and tending to travelers' needs.  Sustainable Cruising: Seaweed Farms and Setting Sail  Don’t miss these moments:  [04:21] “Engines off. It doesn’t get greener than that.” The most peaceful moment of a Sea Cloud cruise. [12:34] Don’t just ban single-use plastic. Behind Hurtigruten’s circular food economy.  [18:14] How beach BBQs are helping build back an island’s economy Meet this week’s guests Gerry Larsson-Fedde, COO at Hurtigruten Kevin Smith, vice president of sales at Sea Cloud Cruises Resources  Read the transcript of this episode. Listen to these Unpacked Minis: There’s a Cruise for You (Really!) and Please Don’t Plan a Cruise Without This. Explore more cruise inspiration and intel on afar.com Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 10 Apr 2025 04:01:00 -0000 full 4 10 Afar When it comes to the future of cruising, sustainability is steering the ship. On this episode of Unpacked, Afar cruise expert and deputy editor, Michelle Baran, takes you to Seatrade, one of the cruise industry's most important events for a panel discussion that asks the question: Is sustainable cruising the new luxury cruising? From wind-powered voyages to community-centered tourism, she uncovers the surprising and inspiring ways two of the industry's greenest cruise lines, Hurtigruten and Sea Cloud Cruises, are charting the way to a sustainable future. We'll unpack more of the trends and innovations coming out of Seatrade in coming weeks—stay tuned! Why Small Ships Make Big Waves in Modern Cruising On this episode, you’ll learn:  How smaller ships create opportunities for travelers to contribute to local communities.  Tips to spot the difference between genuine sustainability and “greenwashing” in cruising.  The unique ways that cruise lines are confronting overtourism and tending to travelers' needs.  Sustainable Cruising: Seaweed Farms and Setting Sail  Don’t miss these moments:  [04:21] “Engines off. It doesn’t get greener than that.” The most peaceful moment of a Sea Cloud cruise. [12:34] Don’t just ban single-use plastic. Behind Hurtigruten’s circular food economy.  [18:14] How beach BBQs are helping build back an island’s economy Meet this week’s guests Gerry Larsson-Fedde, COO at Hurtigruten Kevin Smith, vice president of sales at Sea Cloud Cruises Resources  Read the transcript of this episode. Listen to these Unpacked Minis: There’s a Cruise for You (Really!) and Please Don’t Plan a Cruise Without This. Explore more cruise inspiration and intel on afar.com Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices When it comes to the future of cruising, sustainability is steering the ship.


    On this episode of Unpacked, Afar cruise expert and deputy editor, Michelle Baran, takes you to Seatrade, one of the cruise industry's most important events for a panel discussion that asks the question: Is sustainable cruising the new luxury cruising?


    From wind-powered voyages to community-centered tourism, she uncovers the surprising and inspiring ways two of the industry's greenest cruise lines, Hurtigruten and Sea Cloud Cruises, are charting the way to a sustainable future.


    We'll unpack more of the trends and innovations coming out of Seatrade in coming weeks—stay tuned!


    Why Small Ships Make Big Waves in Modern Cruising


    On this episode, you’ll learn: 

    • How smaller ships create opportunities for travelers to contribute to local communities. 
    • Tips to spot the difference between genuine sustainability and “greenwashing” in cruising. 
    • The unique ways that cruise lines are confronting overtourism and tending to travelers' needs. 


    Sustainable Cruising: Seaweed Farms and Setting Sail 


    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [04:21] “Engines off. It doesn’t get greener than that.” The most peaceful moment of a Sea Cloud cruise.

    [12:34] Don’t just ban single-use plastic. Behind Hurtigruten’s circular food economy. 

    [18:14] How beach BBQs are helping build back an island’s economy



    Meet this week’s guests


    Gerry Larsson-Fedde, COO at Hurtigruten

    Kevin Smith, vice president of sales at Sea Cloud Cruises



    Resources 


    Read the transcript of this episode.

    Listen to these Unpacked Minis: There’s a Cruise for You (Really!) and Please Don’t Plan a Cruise Without This.

    Explore more cruise inspiration and intel on afar.com


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.


    ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1845 no     These are the Best New Hotels of 2025—and They Have Stories to Tell https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked The best hotels offer so much more than a place to stay. In this episode of Unpacked, go behind the scenes of our Best New Hotels list to discover the hotels that are helping to redefine a destination, setting a new bar for sustainability and design, and bringing travelers into communities where their dollars can really count. Host Aislyn Greene and senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers—Afar's resident hotel expert—share inspiration for your next great trip. In 2025, Hotels are Becoming Local Heroes On this episode, you’ll learn:  How hotels are uplifting local communities and preserving cultural legacies.  What the future of sustainable stays looks like and how to sniff out the real deal. Immersive cultural experiences you can only have when you stay at a hotel.  “Sustainability Has Never Looked So Beautiful.”  Don’t miss these transformative moments:  [02:47] This carbon-positive hotel takes sustainability to new heights.  [09:59] Would you forgo electricity for this historic stay? [17:58] Local Discoveries: How a tea towel led to new travel plans.  Resources Read the transcript of this episode. Explore the Best Hotels of 2025 list. Listen to last year's Best New Hotels episode. Listen to our Unpacking ILTM episode. Want more recommendations? Subscribe to Jenn’s newsletter: Stay Here Next Follow Jenn on Instagram or read this story about her childhood in the Plaza Hotel.  Learn more about Populus Hotel in Denver, Dar Tantoura the House Hotel, Kibale Lodge, One and Only One Za’beel and other extraordinary stays on afar.com Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 03 Apr 2025 14:58:00 -0000 full 4 15 Afar The best hotels offer so much more than a place to stay. In this episode of Unpacked, go behind the scenes of our Best New Hotels list to discover the hotels that are helping to redefine a destination, setting a new bar for sustainability and design, and bringing travelers into communities where their dollars can really count. Host Aislyn Greene and senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers—Afar's resident hotel expert—share inspiration for your next great trip. In 2025, Hotels are Becoming Local Heroes On this episode, you’ll learn:  How hotels are uplifting local communities and preserving cultural legacies.  What the future of sustainable stays looks like and how to sniff out the real deal. Immersive cultural experiences you can only have when you stay at a hotel.  “Sustainability Has Never Looked So Beautiful.”  Don’t miss these transformative moments:  [02:47] This carbon-positive hotel takes sustainability to new heights.  [09:59] Would you forgo electricity for this historic stay? [17:58] Local Discoveries: How a tea towel led to new travel plans.  Resources Read the transcript of this episode. Explore the Best Hotels of 2025 list. Listen to last year's Best New Hotels episode. Listen to our Unpacking ILTM episode. Want more recommendations? Subscribe to Jenn’s newsletter: Stay Here Next Follow Jenn on Instagram or read this story about her childhood in the Plaza Hotel.  Learn more about Populus Hotel in Denver, Dar Tantoura the House Hotel, Kibale Lodge, One and Only One Za’beel and other extraordinary stays on afar.com Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The best hotels offer so much more than a place to stay. In this episode of Unpacked, go behind the scenes of our Best New Hotels list to discover the hotels that are helping to redefine a destination, setting a new bar for sustainability and design, and bringing travelers into communities where their dollars can really count. Host Aislyn Greene and senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers—Afar's resident hotel expert—share inspiration for your next great trip.


    In 2025, Hotels are Becoming Local Heroes

    On this episode, you’ll learn: 

    • How hotels are uplifting local communities and preserving cultural legacies. 
    • What the future of sustainable stays looks like and how to sniff out the real deal.
    • Immersive cultural experiences you can only have when you stay at a hotel. 


    “Sustainability Has Never Looked So Beautiful.” 

    Don’t miss these transformative moments: 

    [02:47] This carbon-positive hotel takes sustainability to new heights. 

    [09:59] Would you forgo electricity for this historic stay?

    [17:58] Local Discoveries: How a tea towel led to new travel plans. 


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.


    ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2177 no     The State Where Blues Music Legends Are Born These locals are blazing a trail back to the legends that made Mississippi, specifically the Delta, a region that was (and is) vital to the development of modern music.  On this episode of Unpacked, British writer and fiddle player, Emma John, takes you on a musical odyssey through the Mississippi Blues Trail and its role in reviving a blues heartland and connecting travelers to the soul of the genre.  A special thanks to the late Raymond Earl "Pat" Thomas, the legendary musician featured in this episode who passed on February 12 at the age of 64. Mississippi, the Heartland of Modern Music In this episode you’ll learn:  The venues, museums and historical establishment you must visit on the Mississippi Blues Trail  The local legends surrounding original blues musicians like Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and W.C. Handy The looks, sounds and feels of authentic Delta blues.  Juke Joints, Shotgun Shacks and the Soul of a Land Don’t miss these moments:  [06:19] The Bad Apple Blues Club might seem sketchy at first, but it’s got heart.  [11:40] This is where B.B. King insisted on being buried.  [27:07] Muddy Water’s nephew proves that in the Delta, the blues is always with you.  Listen to the Locals Who Carry the Legacy of Blues  Muddy Water’s great nephew, the son of celebrated bluesman John Thomas and a museum director who met B.B. King as a child—these are some of the local voices that steward the soul of blues on the Mississippi Blues Trail.  Listen along as fiddle player Emma John, gets a local legacy lesson and sees how the heart, soul, and pulse of Delta Blues continues to affect musicians and travelers, alike.  Meet This Week's Guests Big A and the Allstars  at Ground Zero Blues Club Roger Stolle, owner of Cat Head Delta Blues and Folk Art Sean Apple, owner of Bad Apple Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi Robert Terrell, director of operations at the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center Barry Bays, professor at the Delta Music Institute Keith Johnson, aka “the Prince of the Delta Blues”  Pat Thomas, Delta blues guitarist and son of James Thomas who often played at the Highway 61 Blues Museum More Resources Read more about Emma John’s road trip on the Mississippi Blues Trail. Explore Emma’s website, buy her books and read about her musical origins on afar.com. Listen to this playlist featuring the artists from this episode.  Read the transcript of this episode. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 01 Apr 2025 20:25:00 -0000 Travel to Listen: Where Music Legends Are Born full 4 7 Afar These locals are blazing a trail back to the legends that made Mississippi, specifically the Delta, a region that was (and is) vital to the development of modern music.  On this episode of Unpacked, British writer and fiddle player, Emma John, takes you on a musical odyssey through the Mississippi Blues Trail and its role in reviving a blues heartland and connecting travelers to the soul of the genre.  A special thanks to the late Raymond Earl "Pat" Thomas, the legendary musician featured in this episode who passed on February 12 at the age of 64. Mississippi, the Heartland of Modern Music In this episode you’ll learn:  The venues, museums and historical establishment you must visit on the Mississippi Blues Trail  The local legends surrounding original blues musicians like Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and W.C. Handy The looks, sounds and feels of authentic Delta blues.  Juke Joints, Shotgun Shacks and the Soul of a Land Don’t miss these moments:  [06:19] The Bad Apple Blues Club might seem sketchy at first, but it’s got heart.  [11:40] This is where B.B. King insisted on being buried.  [27:07] Muddy Water’s nephew proves that in the Delta, the blues is always with you.  Listen to the Locals Who Carry the Legacy of Blues  Muddy Water’s great nephew, the son of celebrated bluesman John Thomas and a museum director who met B.B. King as a child—these are some of the local voices that steward the soul of blues on the Mississippi Blues Trail.  Listen along as fiddle player Emma John, gets a local legacy lesson and sees how the heart, soul, and pulse of Delta Blues continues to affect musicians and travelers, alike.  Meet This Week's Guests Big A and the Allstars  at Ground Zero Blues Club Roger Stolle, owner of Cat Head Delta Blues and Folk Art Sean Apple, owner of Bad Apple Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi Robert Terrell, director of operations at the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center Barry Bays, professor at the Delta Music Institute Keith Johnson, aka “the Prince of the Delta Blues”  Pat Thomas, Delta blues guitarist and son of James Thomas who often played at the Highway 61 Blues Museum More Resources Read more about Emma John’s road trip on the Mississippi Blues Trail. Explore Emma’s website, buy her books and read about her musical origins on afar.com. Listen to this playlist featuring the artists from this episode.  Read the transcript of this episode. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices These locals are blazing a trail back to the legends that made Mississippi, specifically the Delta, a region that was (and is) vital to the development of modern music. 


    On this episode of Unpacked, British writer and fiddle player, Emma John, takes you on a musical odyssey through the Mississippi Blues Trail and its role in reviving a blues heartland and connecting travelers to the soul of the genre. 


    A special thanks to the late Raymond Earl "Pat" Thomas, the legendary musician featured in this episode who passed on February 12 at the age of 64.


    Mississippi, the Heartland of Modern Music

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • The venues, museums and historical establishment you must visit on the Mississippi Blues Trail 
    • The local legends surrounding original blues musicians like Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and W.C. Handy
    • The looks, sounds and feels of authentic Delta blues. 


    Juke Joints, Shotgun Shacks and the Soul of a Land

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [06:19] The Bad Apple Blues Club might seem sketchy at first, but it’s got heart. 

    [11:40] This is where B.B. King insisted on being buried. 

    [27:07] Muddy Water’s nephew proves that in the Delta, the blues is always with you. 


    Listen to the Locals Who Carry the Legacy of Blues 


    Muddy Water’s great nephew, the son of celebrated bluesman John Thomas and a museum director who met B.B. King as a child—these are some of the local voices that steward the soul of blues on the Mississippi Blues Trail. 


    Listen along as fiddle player Emma John, gets a local legacy lesson and sees how the heart, soul, and pulse of Delta Blues continues to affect musicians and travelers, alike. 


    Meet This Week's Guests

    Big A and the Allstars  at Ground Zero Blues Club

    Roger Stolle, owner of Cat Head Delta Blues and Folk Art

    Sean Apple, owner of Bad Apple Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi

    Robert Terrell, director of operations at the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center

    Barry Bays, professor at the Delta Music Institute

    Keith Johnson, aka “the Prince of the Delta Blues” 

    Pat Thomas, Delta blues guitarist and son of James Thomas who often played at the Highway 61 Blues Museum


    More Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.


    ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2307 no     Why Off-Season Travel is the Key to Unforgettable Outdoor Adventure https://www.afar.com/podcasts Hut-to-hut skiing, frozen waterfalls and seaside foliage—there are surprising outdoor adventures to have in the off-season. Whether you're looking for "softer adventures" in the outdoors (think cycling and hiking) or routinely exercise your way through destinations, this episode will help you tap into the magic of the off-season and plan a travel year full of natural wonders. How the Best Outdoor Adventures Really Happen On this episode, you’ll learn:  How to make the most of outdoor adventure, and hit the off-season, all year round.  Expert recommendations for spring skiing, fall cruising and winter wonderlands.  Tips for beginners to experience how outdoor travel can connect you more deeply to a destination. Where to go to experience bustling city life and quieter nature, in the same day. Scenic Smorgasbords and Far Flung Destinations Don’t miss these moments:  [02:20] Take a last-minute spring ski trip with these tips. [19:11] You could call these suggestions "scenic smorgasbords."  [24:27] “Who doesn’t want to stand in the face of an ice god?”  [34:04] Your new fall foliage favorite: The Northeast coast  Meet This Week’s Guests Cindy Hirschfeld is an avid skier and New York Times travel contributor who has been covering the outdoors for 25 years. From hut-to-hut-backcountry skiing to canyoneering in the desert she shares her favorite tips and recommendations for incredible adventures.  Miles Howard doesn’t just visit trails, he builds them. Miles is the founder of Boston’s 27-mile walking city trail, and in this episode he shares far-flung destinations, scenic smorgasbords and off-season insights that make a lasting mark.  Resources Read Miles Howard's take on why spring is actually the best time to ski. Check out the transcript of the episode. Find the right outdoor adventure for you. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 27 Mar 2025 04:01:00 -0000 full 4 8 Afar Hut-to-hut skiing, frozen waterfalls and seaside foliage—there are surprising outdoor adventures to have in the off-season. Whether you're looking for "softer adventures" in the outdoors (think cycling and hiking) or routinely exercise your way through destinations, this episode will help you tap into the magic of the off-season and plan a travel year full of natural wonders. How the Best Outdoor Adventures Really Happen On this episode, you’ll learn:  How to make the most of outdoor adventure, and hit the off-season, all year round.  Expert recommendations for spring skiing, fall cruising and winter wonderlands.  Tips for beginners to experience how outdoor travel can connect you more deeply to a destination. Where to go to experience bustling city life and quieter nature, in the same day. Scenic Smorgasbords and Far Flung Destinations Don’t miss these moments:  [02:20] Take a last-minute spring ski trip with these tips. [19:11] You could call these suggestions "scenic smorgasbords."  [24:27] “Who doesn’t want to stand in the face of an ice god?”  [34:04] Your new fall foliage favorite: The Northeast coast  Meet This Week’s Guests Cindy Hirschfeld is an avid skier and New York Times travel contributor who has been covering the outdoors for 25 years. From hut-to-hut-backcountry skiing to canyoneering in the desert she shares her favorite tips and recommendations for incredible adventures.  Miles Howard doesn’t just visit trails, he builds them. Miles is the founder of Boston’s 27-mile walking city trail, and in this episode he shares far-flung destinations, scenic smorgasbords and off-season insights that make a lasting mark.  Resources Read Miles Howard's take on why spring is actually the best time to ski. Check out the transcript of the episode. Find the right outdoor adventure for you. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hut-to-hut skiing, frozen waterfalls and seaside foliage—there are surprising outdoor adventures to have in the off-season.


    Whether you're looking for "softer adventures" in the outdoors (think cycling and hiking) or routinely exercise your way through destinations, this episode will help you tap into the magic of the off-season and plan a travel year full of natural wonders.


    How the Best Outdoor Adventures Really Happen

    On this episode, you’ll learn: 


    • How to make the most of outdoor adventure, and hit the off-season, all year round. 
    • Expert recommendations for spring skiing, fall cruising and winter wonderlands. 
    • Tips for beginners to experience how outdoor travel can connect you more deeply to a destination.
    • Where to go to experience bustling city life and quieter nature, in the same day.


    Scenic Smorgasbords and Far Flung Destinations

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [02:20] Take a last-minute spring ski trip with these tips.

    [19:11] You could call these suggestions "scenic smorgasbords." 

    [24:27] “Who doesn’t want to stand in the face of an ice god?” 

    [34:04] Your new fall foliage favorite: The Northeast coast 



    Meet This Week’s Guests


    Cindy Hirschfeld is an avid skier and New York Times travel contributor who has been covering the outdoors for 25 years. From hut-to-hut-backcountry skiing to canyoneering in the desert she shares her favorite tips and recommendations for incredible adventures. 


    Miles Howard doesn’t just visit trails, he builds them. Miles is the founder of Boston’s 27-mile walking city trail, and in this episode he shares far-flung destinations, scenic smorgasbords and off-season insights that make a lasting mark. 


    Resources


    Read Miles Howard's take on why spring is actually the best time to ski.

    Check out the transcript of the episode.

    Find the right outdoor adventure for you.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.


    ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2636 no     Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition: Please Don’t Plan a Cruise Without This There's a surprising key to booking a successful cruise, whether it’s your first or 100th. In our second episode of Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition, host Aislyn Greene and cruise journalist Nicole Edenedo share the secret tool in the savvy cruisers' tool box: a travel advisor. Why Should I Book With a Travel Advisor?  In this episode you’ll learn:  The difference between a travel agent and travel advisor—and how to choose one. How much it costs to work with a travel advisor—it’s less than you think! How a cruise advisor can help you book a better vacation (before, during and after the cruise). Don’t miss these moments [01:17]: What exactly is a cruise travel advisor? [02:58]: How an advisor can help when things go wrong. [04:47]: The (surprisingly low) cost of working with a travel advisor [05:20]: How to find an affordable travel advisor.   Resources: Find the right cruise advisor for you, with these recommendations Meet our guest, Nicole Edenedo. Find a cruise travel advisor through the Afar Travel Advisory Council—of which Judy Pearl Travel, a cruise specialist, is a member—or the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA). Follow Afar for all the cruise news you need to know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 25 Mar 2025 13:01:00 -0000 bonus Afar There's a surprising key to booking a successful cruise, whether it’s your first or 100th. In our second episode of Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition, host Aislyn Greene and cruise journalist Nicole Edenedo share the secret tool in the savvy cruisers' tool box: a travel advisor. Why Should I Book With a Travel Advisor?  In this episode you’ll learn:  The difference between a travel agent and travel advisor—and how to choose one. How much it costs to work with a travel advisor—it’s less than you think! How a cruise advisor can help you book a better vacation (before, during and after the cruise). Don’t miss these moments [01:17]: What exactly is a cruise travel advisor? [02:58]: How an advisor can help when things go wrong. [04:47]: The (surprisingly low) cost of working with a travel advisor [05:20]: How to find an affordable travel advisor.   Resources: Find the right cruise advisor for you, with these recommendations Meet our guest, Nicole Edenedo. Find a cruise travel advisor through the Afar Travel Advisory Council—of which Judy Pearl Travel, a cruise specialist, is a member—or the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA). Follow Afar for all the cruise news you need to know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices There's a surprising key to booking a successful cruise, whether it’s your first or 100th. In our second episode of Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition, host Aislyn Greene and cruise journalist Nicole Edenedo share the secret tool in the savvy cruisers' tool box: a travel advisor.


    Why Should I Book With a Travel Advisor? 

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • The difference between a travel agent and travel advisor—and how to choose one.
    • How much it costs to work with a travel advisor—it’s less than you think!
    • How a cruise advisor can help you book a better vacation (before, during and after the cruise).


    Don’t miss these moments

    [01:17]: What exactly is a cruise travel advisor?

    [02:58]: How an advisor can help when things go wrong.

    [04:47]: The (surprisingly low) cost of working with a travel advisor

    [05:20]: How to find an affordable travel advisor.  


    Resources: Find the right cruise advisor for you, with these recommendations


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     523 no     Hidden Islands and Local Favorites: How to Hack Your Summer Travel https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked Looking to avoid the crowds and make the most of summer travel in 2025? On this episode of Unpacked, Afar contributor Mark Ellwood—a seasoned traveler who has spent most of his life living out of a suitcase—shares the off-the-beaten path summer adventures you can enjoy, again and again. Looking for the Best Places to Travel in Summer? On this episode you’ll discover:   How to find the best summer travel deals and get the most out of a summer trip.  Hidden gems in the U.S., Europe and beyond, that locals love.  Ideas to weather-proof your summer and find alternative escapes you won’t forget.  The Midwest Isn't the Only Place With a Well-Kept Secret Don’t miss these moments:  [07:54] The Midwest’s best-kept summer travel secret.  [12:53] Surf in the part of Scotland most people forget is there.  [14:30] How to vacation like an Italian and avoid tourist traps.  [20:30] Affordable flights and volcanic adventures: Why the Caribbean is a hiker’s paradise.    Do You Need an Amalfi Intervention? While many travelers flock to hotspots like the Amalfi Coast or Rocky Mountains, Mark Ellwood reveals off-the-radar destinations, seasoned travel hacks and ways to enjoy popular locations without the crowds.  Resources:  Read the transcript of the episode. Visit Mark’s website or follow him on Instagram.  Want to discover more off-the-beaten path destinations? Explore this section of afar.com.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 13 Mar 2025 07:01:00 -0000 full 4 6 Afar Looking to avoid the crowds and make the most of summer travel in 2025? On this episode of Unpacked, Afar contributor Mark Ellwood—a seasoned traveler who has spent most of his life living out of a suitcase—shares the off-the-beaten path summer adventures you can enjoy, again and again. Looking for the Best Places to Travel in Summer? On this episode you’ll discover:   How to find the best summer travel deals and get the most out of a summer trip.  Hidden gems in the U.S., Europe and beyond, that locals love.  Ideas to weather-proof your summer and find alternative escapes you won’t forget.  The Midwest Isn't the Only Place With a Well-Kept Secret Don’t miss these moments:  [07:54] The Midwest’s best-kept summer travel secret.  [12:53] Surf in the part of Scotland most people forget is there.  [14:30] How to vacation like an Italian and avoid tourist traps.  [20:30] Affordable flights and volcanic adventures: Why the Caribbean is a hiker’s paradise.    Do You Need an Amalfi Intervention? While many travelers flock to hotspots like the Amalfi Coast or Rocky Mountains, Mark Ellwood reveals off-the-radar destinations, seasoned travel hacks and ways to enjoy popular locations without the crowds.  Resources:  Read the transcript of the episode. Visit Mark’s website or follow him on Instagram.  Want to discover more off-the-beaten path destinations? Explore this section of afar.com.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Looking to avoid the crowds and make the most of summer travel in 2025? On this episode of Unpacked, Afar contributor Mark Ellwood—a seasoned traveler who has spent most of his life living out of a suitcase—shares the off-the-beaten path summer adventures you can enjoy, again and again.


    Looking for the Best Places to Travel in Summer?

    On this episode you’ll discover:  

    • How to find the best summer travel deals and get the most out of a summer trip. 
    • Hidden gems in the U.S., Europe and beyond, that locals love. 
    • Ideas to weather-proof your summer and find alternative escapes you won’t forget. 


    The Midwest Isn't the Only Place With a Well-Kept Secret

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [07:54] The Midwest’s best-kept summer travel secret. 

    [12:53] Surf in the part of Scotland most people forget is there. 

    [14:30] How to vacation like an Italian and avoid tourist traps. 

    [20:30] Affordable flights and volcanic adventures: Why the Caribbean is a hiker’s paradise. 


     

    Do You Need an Amalfi Intervention?

    While many travelers flock to hotspots like the Amalfi Coast or Rocky Mountains, Mark Ellwood reveals off-the-radar destinations, seasoned travel hacks and ways to enjoy popular locations without the crowds. 


    Resources: 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.


    ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2487 no     “She’s an Italian Mama.” Get to Know Rome Like a Local. https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked This year—2025—is a holy one in Rome. But you can still avoid the crowds.  On this episode of Unpacked by Afar, Rome local and journalist Laura Itzkowitz, takes us off the tourist trail and into the lesser-visited places that make Rome worth visiting, all year round.  How To Experience Rome Like A Local, Not a Tourist On this episode you’ll learn:  How to beat the crowds in hot spots like the Vatican and the Colosseum.  Where to stay in Rome to support the local economy and enjoy hidden gems.  How to eat like a local in Rome and avoid tourist traps.  Get To the Heart of Rome, No Long Lines Required Don’t miss these moments:  [03:55] Meet Mama Roma: The essence of the city.  [16:24] How to see Rome's greatest sights, without the crowds.  [19:48] Don’t fall for this tourist trap. Get authentic food, instead.   [27:09] Where to stay, when in Rome.  A Roman Love Story: In Two Parts More than 15 years ago, Laura Izkowitz fell in love with Rome on her very first visit. She was taken by the glamour and intrigue of the city—the sounds of "mini operas" all around her. Now, she's married to a Roman, is an expert in Roman travel, and navigates the city like the seasoned local she is. Follow along as she takes you off the tourist trail, gives you local strategies for avoiding the crowds, and shares cultural insight to help you explore the ancient city like the Romans do. Resources Check out Laura’s original story to find more local recommendations.  Read more of Laura’s work on her website or explore her Substack, The New Roman Times. Book a tour with Elisa Valeria Bove’s tour company, Roma Experience.  Rome’s Jubilee Year Has Begun—Here’s What to Know and How to Avoid The Crowds.  The Secret to Seeing the Vatican Without the Crowds Follow Laura on Instagram.  Read the transcript of the episode.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 06 Mar 2025 05:01:00 -0000 “She’s an Italian Mama.” Get to Know Rome Like a Local. full 4 5 Afar This year—2025—is a holy one in Rome. But you can still avoid the crowds.  On this episode of Unpacked by Afar, Rome local and journalist Laura Itzkowitz, takes us off the tourist trail and into the lesser-visited places that make Rome worth visiting, all year round.  How To Experience Rome Like A Local, Not a Tourist On this episode you’ll learn:  How to beat the crowds in hot spots like the Vatican and the Colosseum.  Where to stay in Rome to support the local economy and enjoy hidden gems.  How to eat like a local in Rome and avoid tourist traps.  Get To the Heart of Rome, No Long Lines Required Don’t miss these moments:  [03:55] Meet Mama Roma: The essence of the city.  [16:24] How to see Rome's greatest sights, without the crowds.  [19:48] Don’t fall for this tourist trap. Get authentic food, instead.   [27:09] Where to stay, when in Rome.  A Roman Love Story: In Two Parts More than 15 years ago, Laura Izkowitz fell in love with Rome on her very first visit. She was taken by the glamour and intrigue of the city—the sounds of "mini operas" all around her. Now, she's married to a Roman, is an expert in Roman travel, and navigates the city like the seasoned local she is. Follow along as she takes you off the tourist trail, gives you local strategies for avoiding the crowds, and shares cultural insight to help you explore the ancient city like the Romans do. Resources Check out Laura’s original story to find more local recommendations.  Read more of Laura’s work on her website or explore her Substack, The New Roman Times. Book a tour with Elisa Valeria Bove’s tour company, Roma Experience.  Rome’s Jubilee Year Has Begun—Here’s What to Know and How to Avoid The Crowds.  The Secret to Seeing the Vatican Without the Crowds Follow Laura on Instagram.  Read the transcript of the episode.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This year—2025—is a holy one in Rome. But you can still avoid the crowds. 

    On this episode of Unpacked by Afar, Rome local and journalist Laura Itzkowitz, takes us off the tourist trail and into the lesser-visited places that make Rome worth visiting, all year round. 

    How To Experience Rome Like A Local, Not a Tourist

    On this episode you’ll learn: 

    • How to beat the crowds in hot spots like the Vatican and the Colosseum. 
    • Where to stay in Rome to support the local economy and enjoy hidden gems. 
    • How to eat like a local in Rome and avoid tourist traps. 


    Get To the Heart of Rome, No Long Lines Required

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [03:55] Meet Mama Roma: The essence of the city. 

    [16:24] How to see Rome's greatest sights, without the crowds. 

    [19:48] Don’t fall for this tourist trap. Get authentic food, instead.  

    [27:09] Where to stay, when in Rome. 


    A Roman Love Story: In Two Parts

    More than 15 years ago, Laura Izkowitz fell in love with Rome on her very first visit. She was taken by the glamour and intrigue of the city—the sounds of "mini operas" all around her. Now, she's married to a Roman, is an expert in Roman travel, and navigates the city like the seasoned local she is.

    Follow along as she takes you off the tourist trail, gives you local strategies for avoiding the crowds, and shares cultural insight to help you explore the ancient city like the Romans do.


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2928 no     Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition: There's a Cruise for You (Really!) Welcome to Unpacked Minis, our new Unpacked series. Throughout the year, over the course of four bite-size episodes, we'll dig into the biggest themes in travel. This month, we're tackling cruising, specifically those who are new to cruising—or think it's not for them. In our inaugural episode, Michelle Baran—Afar’s deputy news editor and resident cruise expert—sits down with host Aislyn Greene, a former cruise skeptic, to unpack the surprising world of modern cruising. Whether you're new to the world or you’re cruise-averse for environmental, cultural, or other reasons, you’ll discover unique cruise experiences that will help you rethink this growing travel industry.  From cruise recommendations for adventurous travelers to the ways that cruising is adjusting to concerns about sustainability and travel limitations, here's how to dive in. Should I Go on a Cruise? In this episode you’ll learn:  Why river cruising could be the ideal cruise type for novices and skeptics.  The advantages and disadvantages of cruising.  How cruise lines are adjusting to concerns about sustainability and limited options.  Busting Cruise Stereotypes One-By-One Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [01:52] The experience that changed my mind about cruising. [05:49] What about wind? Sustainability and sailing ships.  [ 00:00] Destinations you can only reach by water.  Resources:  Explore our recs for river cruises, how to pick the best polar cruise for you, and more Afar cruise content.  Read other work by Michelle Baran. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:20:01 -0000 Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition: There's a Cruise for You (Really!) bonus Afar Welcome to Unpacked Minis, our new Unpacked series. Throughout the year, over the course of four bite-size episodes, we'll dig into the biggest themes in travel. This month, we're tackling cruising, specifically those who are new to cruising—or think it's not for them. In our inaugural episode, Michelle Baran—Afar’s deputy news editor and resident cruise expert—sits down with host Aislyn Greene, a former cruise skeptic, to unpack the surprising world of modern cruising. Whether you're new to the world or you’re cruise-averse for environmental, cultural, or other reasons, you’ll discover unique cruise experiences that will help you rethink this growing travel industry.  From cruise recommendations for adventurous travelers to the ways that cruising is adjusting to concerns about sustainability and travel limitations, here's how to dive in. Should I Go on a Cruise? In this episode you’ll learn:  Why river cruising could be the ideal cruise type for novices and skeptics.  The advantages and disadvantages of cruising.  How cruise lines are adjusting to concerns about sustainability and limited options.  Busting Cruise Stereotypes One-By-One Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [01:52] The experience that changed my mind about cruising. [05:49] What about wind? Sustainability and sailing ships.  [ 00:00] Destinations you can only reach by water.  Resources:  Explore our recs for river cruises, how to pick the best polar cruise for you, and more Afar cruise content.  Read other work by Michelle Baran. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to Unpacked Minis, our new Unpacked series. Throughout the year, over the course of four bite-size episodes, we'll dig into the biggest themes in travel. This month, we're tackling cruising, specifically those who are new to cruising—or think it's not for them.

    In our inaugural episode, Michelle Baran—Afar’s deputy news editor and resident cruise expert—sits down with host Aislyn Greene, a former cruise skeptic, to unpack the surprising world of modern cruising. Whether you're new to the world or you’re cruise-averse for environmental, cultural, or other reasons, you’ll discover unique cruise experiences that will help you rethink this growing travel industry. 

    From cruise recommendations for adventurous travelers to the ways that cruising is adjusting to concerns about sustainability and travel limitations, here's how to dive in.


    Should I Go on a Cruise?

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • Why river cruising could be the ideal cruise type for novices and skeptics. 
    • The advantages and disadvantages of cruising. 
    • How cruise lines are adjusting to concerns about sustainability and limited options. 


    Busting Cruise Stereotypes One-By-One

    Don’t miss these memorable moments: 

    [01:52] The experience that changed my mind about cruising.

    [05:49] What about wind? Sustainability and sailing ships. 

    [ 00:00] Destinations you can only reach by water. 


    Resources: 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.


    ** What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1078 no     The Secret to Stress-Free Family Travel? These Parents (And Travel Pros) Say It’s All in the Bag. https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked “How soon can you put this baby on a plane?” When No Reception Club founders Gemma and Daniel Ng became parents, they vowed not only to keep traveling, but to create solutions for others braving travel with kids.  And so they went on to create “The Getaway Bag,” which went on to become a cult favorite. On this episode of Unpacked, they share the terrible flight that inspired their first bag, hard won advice for traveling parents, and what No Reception Club really means to them.  Can Travel Be Even More Important With Kids? On this episode you’ll learn:  How to maximize No Reception Club’s viral travel diaper bag for your family.  Pro packing tips to be prepared when traveling with kids (without overpacking).  How to protect your child’s sleep and conquer jet lag when traveling as a family.  Maximize Snacks. Minimize Gear. Packing Tips For Parents. Don’t miss these moments:  [01:21] How a nightmare flight led to helping parents travel easier.  [14:40] Why traveling with kids has a lasting impact—even if they don’t remember the trip.  [22:24] After five years of traveling with kids, here’s what we wish we knew from the start.  Empowering Families to Travel, One Bag at a Time. As first-time parents, Gemma and Daniel had their fair share of travel mishaps, from overpacking on a road trip with their 3-month-old to wanting to pull their hair out on a flight to Hawaii.  They chat with host, Aislyn Greene about the advice they would give their younger selves, how their travel philosophy and bags make for more meaningful family trips, and ways that parents can travel more, not less, with their kids. Resources:  ** Use the code AFAR25, to get $25 off any purchase at No Reception Club.** Read the transcript of the episode. Buy The Getaway Bag.  Check out this in-depth review of No Reception Club’s Hideaway Carry-On Duffel.  Discover the best travel gear for parents, tested by Afar parents (and their kids).  Follow No Reception Club on Youtube or Instagram Join the No Reception Clubhouse on Facebook for community and perks.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 27 Feb 2025 05:01:00 -0000 The Secret to Stress-Free Family Travel? These Parents (And Travel Pros) Say It’s All in the Bag. full 4 4 Afar “How soon can you put this baby on a plane?” When No Reception Club founders Gemma and Daniel Ng became parents, they vowed not only to keep traveling, but to create solutions for others braving travel with kids.  And so they went on to create “The Getaway Bag,” which went on to become a cult favorite. On this episode of Unpacked, they share the terrible flight that inspired their first bag, hard won advice for traveling parents, and what No Reception Club really means to them.  Can Travel Be Even More Important With Kids? On this episode you’ll learn:  How to maximize No Reception Club’s viral travel diaper bag for your family.  Pro packing tips to be prepared when traveling with kids (without overpacking).  How to protect your child’s sleep and conquer jet lag when traveling as a family.  Maximize Snacks. Minimize Gear. Packing Tips For Parents. Don’t miss these moments:  [01:21] How a nightmare flight led to helping parents travel easier.  [14:40] Why traveling with kids has a lasting impact—even if they don’t remember the trip.  [22:24] After five years of traveling with kids, here’s what we wish we knew from the start.  Empowering Families to Travel, One Bag at a Time. As first-time parents, Gemma and Daniel had their fair share of travel mishaps, from overpacking on a road trip with their 3-month-old to wanting to pull their hair out on a flight to Hawaii.  They chat with host, Aislyn Greene about the advice they would give their younger selves, how their travel philosophy and bags make for more meaningful family trips, and ways that parents can travel more, not less, with their kids. Resources:  ** Use the code AFAR25, to get $25 off any purchase at No Reception Club.** Read the transcript of the episode. Buy The Getaway Bag.  Check out this in-depth review of No Reception Club’s Hideaway Carry-On Duffel.  Discover the best travel gear for parents, tested by Afar parents (and their kids).  Follow No Reception Club on Youtube or Instagram Join the No Reception Clubhouse on Facebook for community and perks.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices “How soon can you put this baby on a plane?” When No Reception Club founders Gemma and Daniel Ng became parents, they vowed not only to keep traveling, but to create solutions for others braving travel with kids. 

    And so they went on to create “The Getaway Bag,” which went on to become a cult favorite.

    On this episode of Unpacked, they share the terrible flight that inspired their first bag, hard won advice for traveling parents, and what No Reception Club really means to them. 


    Can Travel Be Even More Important With Kids?

    On this episode you’ll learn: 

    • How to maximize No Reception Club’s viral travel diaper bag for your family. 
    • Pro packing tips to be prepared when traveling with kids (without overpacking). 
    • How to protect your child’s sleep and conquer jet lag when traveling as a family. 


    Maximize Snacks. Minimize Gear. Packing Tips For Parents.

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [01:21] How a nightmare flight led to helping parents travel easier. 

    [14:40] Why traveling with kids has a lasting impact—even if they don’t remember the trip. 

    [22:24] After five years of traveling with kids, here’s what we wish we knew from the start. 


    Empowering Families to Travel, One Bag at a Time.

    As first-time parents, Gemma and Daniel had their fair share of travel mishaps, from overpacking on a road trip with their 3-month-old to wanting to pull their hair out on a flight to Hawaii. 

    They chat with host, Aislyn Greene about the advice they would give their younger selves, how their travel philosophy and bags make for more meaningful family trips, and ways that parents can travel more, not less, with their kids.


    Resources: 

    ** Use the code AFAR25, to get $25 off any purchase at No Reception Club.**

    Read the transcript of the episode.

    Buy The Getaway Bag. 

    Check out this in-depth review of No Reception Club’s Hideaway Carry-On Duffel. 

    Discover the best travel gear for parents, tested by Afar parents (and their kids). 

    Follow No Reception Club on Youtube or Instagram

    Join the No Reception Clubhouse on Facebook for community and perks. 



    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.


    ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2723 no     Travel Tales Bonus: Queer Eye's Antoni Porowski Will Eat Anything—Except This Welcome to a special bonus from our sister podcast, Travel Tales. In it, Antoni Porowski, our favorite culinary expert from Queer Eye, takes you behind-the-scenes of his new National Geographic show, No Taste Like Home (premiering February 23, 2025). In this episode, he shares the connection that sent him crying off camera with Awkwafina, the dish that defeated his adventurous palate with Henry Golding, and how his Polish roots served him well while helping celebrities explore the foods that taste like home in six different countries. What Do Kimbap, Ndambe and Chicken Fried Steak Have in Common? On this episode you’ll learn:  How National Geographic’s team created epic, transformative travel experiences for celebrities.  The tastes and origin stories that transformed Antoni Porowski, from kelp soup in Korea to ndambe in Senegal.  The ways that food and travel can connect people to their deepest roots.  Queer Eye's Antoni Porowski Will Eat Anything—Except This Don’t miss these transformative, travel moments:  [03:06] “I was the pickiest eater ever growing up!” [10:01] Kelp, crying, and Korean connections with Awkwafina. [17:18] James Marsden sheds a light on chicken fried steak. [19:21] Antoni Porowski tests his foodie limits with Henry Golding. [20:04] The surprising connections that changed the way Antoni Porowski approaches food. Why The Perfect Meal Should Remind You of Your Childhood Every episode of Antoni Porowski’s new show, No Taste Like Home, took three to six months of research: from tracing family trees to exploring the origins of traditional foods. In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, discover what Queer Eye’s Antoni Porowski learned about the universality of place, comfort and connection by taking celebrities on epic journeys to explore their culinary and familial roots.  Resources:  Follow Antoni Porowski on Instagram  Stream the show, No Taste Like Home with Antoni Porowski.   Watch this episode on Youtube.  Read the episode transcript. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 23 Feb 2025 19:54:27 -0000 Travel Tales Bonus: Queer Eye's Antoni Porowski Will Eat Anything—Except This bonus 4 Afar Welcome to a special bonus from our sister podcast, Travel Tales. In it, Antoni Porowski, our favorite culinary expert from Queer Eye, takes you behind-the-scenes of his new National Geographic show, No Taste Like Home (premiering February 23, 2025). In this episode, he shares the connection that sent him crying off camera with Awkwafina, the dish that defeated his adventurous palate with Henry Golding, and how his Polish roots served him well while helping celebrities explore the foods that taste like home in six different countries. What Do Kimbap, Ndambe and Chicken Fried Steak Have in Common? On this episode you’ll learn:  How National Geographic’s team created epic, transformative travel experiences for celebrities.  The tastes and origin stories that transformed Antoni Porowski, from kelp soup in Korea to ndambe in Senegal.  The ways that food and travel can connect people to their deepest roots.  Queer Eye's Antoni Porowski Will Eat Anything—Except This Don’t miss these transformative, travel moments:  [03:06] “I was the pickiest eater ever growing up!” [10:01] Kelp, crying, and Korean connections with Awkwafina. [17:18] James Marsden sheds a light on chicken fried steak. [19:21] Antoni Porowski tests his foodie limits with Henry Golding. [20:04] The surprising connections that changed the way Antoni Porowski approaches food. Why The Perfect Meal Should Remind You of Your Childhood Every episode of Antoni Porowski’s new show, No Taste Like Home, took three to six months of research: from tracing family trees to exploring the origins of traditional foods. In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, discover what Queer Eye’s Antoni Porowski learned about the universality of place, comfort and connection by taking celebrities on epic journeys to explore their culinary and familial roots.  Resources:  Follow Antoni Porowski on Instagram  Stream the show, No Taste Like Home with Antoni Porowski.   Watch this episode on Youtube.  Read the episode transcript. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Welcome to a special bonus from our sister podcast, Travel Tales. In it, Antoni Porowski, our favorite culinary expert from Queer Eye, takes you behind-the-scenes of his new National Geographic show, No Taste Like Home (premiering February 23, 2025). In this episode, he shares the connection that sent him crying off camera with Awkwafina, the dish that defeated his adventurous palate with Henry Golding, and how his Polish roots served him well while helping celebrities explore the foods that taste like home in six different countries.

    What Do Kimbap, Ndambe and Chicken Fried Steak Have in Common?

    On this episode you’ll learn: 

    • How National Geographic’s team created epic, transformative travel experiences for celebrities. 
    • The tastes and origin stories that transformed Antoni Porowski, from kelp soup in Korea to ndambe in Senegal. 
    • The ways that food and travel can connect people to their deepest roots. 


    Queer Eye's Antoni Porowski Will Eat Anything—Except This

    Don’t miss these transformative, travel moments: 

    [03:06] “I was the pickiest eater ever growing up!”

    [10:01] Kelp, crying, and Korean connections with Awkwafina.

    [17:18] James Marsden sheds a light on chicken fried steak.

    [19:21] Antoni Porowski tests his foodie limits with Henry Golding.

    [20:04] The surprising connections that changed the way Antoni Porowski approaches food.


    Why The Perfect Meal Should Remind You of Your Childhood

    Every episode of Antoni Porowski’s new show, No Taste Like Home, took three to six months of research: from tracing family trees to exploring the origins of traditional foods.


    In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, discover what Queer Eye’s Antoni Porowski learned about the universality of place, comfort and connection by taking celebrities on epic journeys to explore their culinary and familial roots. 


    Resources: 

    Follow Antoni Porowski on Instagram 

    Stream the show, No Taste Like Home with Antoni Porowski.  

    Watch this episode on Youtube. 

    Read the episode transcript.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2002 no     I've Been Booking Trips With Points Since I Was 12—Here's How To Win at Travel Stop making these common travel mistakes and start maximizing credit card points and airline miles with these tips from The Points Guy, Brian Kelly, author of the new book How to Win at Travel. In this episode, he chats with host Aislyn Greene about the mindsets, practices, and guidelines to help both beginners and seasoned fliers win at travel in today’s economy of points and miles.  ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Most Travelers Make These Mistakes When Booking with Points In this episode you’ll learn:  How to beat inflation with credit card perks and points.   Why chasing elite status is no longer worth it and what to do instead. The common mistakes you need to avoid to book the best travel deals.    Travel Game Hacks: Sniffing Delays and Maximizing Miles Don’t miss these moments:  [00:00] A 12-year-old books a family trip to the Cayman Islands: The origin of The Points Guy.  [12:25] Beginner tips for racking up travel points and miles.  [15:13] Common misconceptions about booking travel. [33:52] Flight delayed or cancelled? Save money and time by using points.  Travel Deals are Easier to Find with The Points Guy Brian Kelly, aka the Points Guy, is the go-to-person source for points, miles and travel deals for a global audience. In his new book, How To Win At Travel, he breaks down his most tried-and-true strategies to help every traveler– whether you are aspiring or a seasoned flier– make every dollar count toward better travel experiences.  In this episode he shares the most important tips for booking flights, the apps that help him travel smarter and the hacks he uses to save money and time when things go wrong.  Resources: Want more tips? Read this companion story on afar.com. Check out The Points Guy website or follow The Points Guy on Instagram.  Buy Brian’s new book, How to Win at Travel.  Want more tips? Read this companion story on afar.com. Read the transcript of this episode. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 20 Feb 2025 05:01:00 -0000 I've Been Booking Trips With Points Since I Was 12—Here's How To Win at Travel full 4 3 Afar Stop making these common travel mistakes and start maximizing credit card points and airline miles with these tips from The Points Guy, Brian Kelly, author of the new book How to Win at Travel. In this episode, he chats with host Aislyn Greene about the mindsets, practices, and guidelines to help both beginners and seasoned fliers win at travel in today’s economy of points and miles.  ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Most Travelers Make These Mistakes When Booking with Points In this episode you’ll learn:  How to beat inflation with credit card perks and points.   Why chasing elite status is no longer worth it and what to do instead. The common mistakes you need to avoid to book the best travel deals.    Travel Game Hacks: Sniffing Delays and Maximizing Miles Don’t miss these moments:  [00:00] A 12-year-old books a family trip to the Cayman Islands: The origin of The Points Guy.  [12:25] Beginner tips for racking up travel points and miles.  [15:13] Common misconceptions about booking travel. [33:52] Flight delayed or cancelled? Save money and time by using points.  Travel Deals are Easier to Find with The Points Guy Brian Kelly, aka the Points Guy, is the go-to-person source for points, miles and travel deals for a global audience. In his new book, How To Win At Travel, he breaks down his most tried-and-true strategies to help every traveler– whether you are aspiring or a seasoned flier– make every dollar count toward better travel experiences.  In this episode he shares the most important tips for booking flights, the apps that help him travel smarter and the hacks he uses to save money and time when things go wrong.  Resources: Want more tips? Read this companion story on afar.com. Check out The Points Guy website or follow The Points Guy on Instagram.  Buy Brian’s new book, How to Win at Travel.  Want more tips? Read this companion story on afar.com. Read the transcript of this episode. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Stop making these common travel mistakes and start maximizing credit card points and airline miles with these tips from The Points Guy, Brian Kelly, author of the new book How to Win at Travel. In this episode, he chats with host Aislyn Greene about the mindsets, practices, and guidelines to help both beginners and seasoned fliers win at travel in today’s economy of points and miles. 

    ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **


    Most Travelers Make These Mistakes When Booking with Points

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • How to beat inflation with credit card perks and points.  
    • Why chasing elite status is no longer worth it and what to do instead.
    • The common mistakes you need to avoid to book the best travel deals.   


    Travel Game Hacks: Sniffing Delays and Maximizing Miles

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [00:00] A 12-year-old books a family trip to the Cayman Islands: The origin of The Points Guy. 

    [12:25] Beginner tips for racking up travel points and miles. 

    [15:13] Common misconceptions about booking travel.

    [33:52] Flight delayed or cancelled? Save money and time by using points. 


    Travel Deals are Easier to Find with The Points Guy


    Brian Kelly, aka the Points Guy, is the go-to-person source for points, miles and travel deals for a global audience. In his new book, How To Win At Travel, he breaks down his most tried-and-true strategies to help every traveler– whether you are aspiring or a seasoned flier– make every dollar count toward better travel experiences. 


    In this episode he shares the most important tips for booking flights, the apps that help him travel smarter and the hacks he uses to save money and time when things go wrong. 


    Resources:

    Want more tips? Read this companion story on afar.com.

    Check out The Points Guy website or follow The Points Guy on Instagram. 

    Buy Brian’s new book, How to Win at Travel. 

    Want more tips? Read this companion story on afar.com.

    Read the transcript of this episode.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2660     I Always Visit a Cemetery When I Travel—Here's Why You Should, Too https://www.afar.com/podcasts Step aside cheesy ghost tours, “tombstone tourism” is so much more than visiting cemeteries to hear about local legends. In this episode of Unpacked, a seasoned traveler shares why graveyards and tombstones are at the top of her “must-see” list—no matter the destination.  ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Tombstone Tourism: Travel’s Underrated Experience.  In this episode you’ll learn:  How visiting a cemetery can give you cultural insight into the places you visit.  The social and health benefits of walking through a cemetery.  Some of the cemeteries you should add to your list, and what makes them unique.    Should I Travel To A Cemetery? Don’t miss these moments:  [13:34] Finding solace for a familiar grief in Berlin’s Star Children Gardens [22:49] Becoming better people and other surprising benefits of tombstone tourism.  [25:29] Burial changes and a disappearing gravesite in Amsterdam The Difference Between Graveyards and Cemeteries Travel journalist Blane Bachelor visits a cemetery every time she travels, not because she’s searching for haunted stories, but because it enriches her experience of a place and her human experience overall.  She chats with host Aislyn Greene about the cemeteries and graveyards around the world that everyone should visit, the personal benefits of walking through gravesites and how these landmarks can help you travel deeper.  Resources:  Read Blane’s full story here. Explore more of her work on Instagram or on her website.  Listen to this episode about how tourism can help us grieve.  Read the transcript of this episode.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 13 Feb 2025 05:01:00 -0000 I Always Visit a Cemetery When I Travel—Here's Why You Should, Too full 4 2 Afar Step aside cheesy ghost tours, “tombstone tourism” is so much more than visiting cemeteries to hear about local legends. In this episode of Unpacked, a seasoned traveler shares why graveyards and tombstones are at the top of her “must-see” list—no matter the destination.  ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. ** Tombstone Tourism: Travel’s Underrated Experience.  In this episode you’ll learn:  How visiting a cemetery can give you cultural insight into the places you visit.  The social and health benefits of walking through a cemetery.  Some of the cemeteries you should add to your list, and what makes them unique.    Should I Travel To A Cemetery? Don’t miss these moments:  [13:34] Finding solace for a familiar grief in Berlin’s Star Children Gardens [22:49] Becoming better people and other surprising benefits of tombstone tourism.  [25:29] Burial changes and a disappearing gravesite in Amsterdam The Difference Between Graveyards and Cemeteries Travel journalist Blane Bachelor visits a cemetery every time she travels, not because she’s searching for haunted stories, but because it enriches her experience of a place and her human experience overall.  She chats with host Aislyn Greene about the cemeteries and graveyards around the world that everyone should visit, the personal benefits of walking through gravesites and how these landmarks can help you travel deeper.  Resources:  Read Blane’s full story here. Explore more of her work on Instagram or on her website.  Listen to this episode about how tourism can help us grieve.  Read the transcript of this episode.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Step aside cheesy ghost tours, “tombstone tourism” is so much more than visiting cemeteries to hear about local legends. In this episode of Unpacked, a seasoned traveler shares why graveyards and tombstones are at the top of her “must-see” list—no matter the destination. 


    ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **


    Tombstone Tourism: Travel’s Underrated Experience. 

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • How visiting a cemetery can give you cultural insight into the places you visit. 
    • The social and health benefits of walking through a cemetery. 
    • Some of the cemeteries you should add to your list, and what makes them unique. 

     

    Should I Travel To A Cemetery?

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [13:34] Finding solace for a familiar grief in Berlin’s Star Children Gardens

    [22:49] Becoming better people and other surprising benefits of tombstone tourism. 

    [25:29] Burial changes and a disappearing gravesite in Amsterdam


    The Difference Between Graveyards and Cemeteries

    Travel journalist Blane Bachelor visits a cemetery every time she travels, not because she’s searching for haunted stories, but because it enriches her experience of a place and her human experience overall. 


    She chats with host Aislyn Greene about the cemeteries and graveyards around the world that everyone should visit, the personal benefits of walking through gravesites and how these landmarks can help you travel deeper. 


    Resources: 

    Read Blane’s full story here.

    Explore more of her work on Instagram or on her website. 

    Listen to this episode about how tourism can help us grieve. 

    Read the transcript of this episode. 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1635     Your Next Tour Might Be a Silent One. AI Will Remake Your Hotel Experience. These Are the Travel Trends to Watch in 2025 https://www.afar.com/podcasts This year in luxury travel, customization is king. Afar’s resident hotel expert, Jennifer Flowers, and editor in chief, Julia Cosgrove, go behind the scenes of ILTM, the International Luxury Travel Market, in Cannes, France. They sat down with leaders from three of the world’s biggest hotel brands—Hilton, IHG, and Hyatt—to hear how trends, technology, and travelers' changing desires will shape luxury hotels in 2025.  Featured Guests: Crystal Vinisse Thomas, (Former) Vice President, Global Brand Leader, Lifestyle and Luxury Brands, Hyatt. (Crystal resigned after we recorded this episode.) Jane Mackie, SVP of Luxury, Lifestyle, and Premium Brands at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) Dino Michael, SVP and Global Head, Hilton Luxury Brands **New opportunity: Want to be featured in an episode of Unpacked or have an idea you want us to unpack next? Send us a voicemail here. ** What Travelers Want Most in 2025  In this episode, you’ll learn:  The path to becoming a luxury travel leader in hospitality.  How hotels are helping travelers customize their experiences, loyalty perks and more.  The trends that will help you plan your perfect year of travel—from AI to authentic experiences.  Plan Better Travel With These Luxury Hotel Brands Don’t miss these moments:  [07:28] Sniffing out inauthenticity and how hotels become good neighbors.  [25:26] AI, customization, and getting the most out of loyalty programs.  [36:45] How all-inclusive resorts are gaining a new reputation.  Resources Read the article: 4 Hotel Travel Trends to Watch in 2025. Explore the luxury travel brands at Hilton, Hyatt and InterContinental (IHG). Check out our Hotels We Love series and Stay Here Next reviews. Read the transcript of this episode. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 06 Feb 2025 05:01:00 -0000 Your Next Tour Might Be a Silent One. AI Will Remake Your Hotel Experience. These Are the Travel Trends to Watch in 2025 full 4 1 Afar This year in luxury travel, customization is king. Afar’s resident hotel expert, Jennifer Flowers, and editor in chief, Julia Cosgrove, go behind the scenes of ILTM, the International Luxury Travel Market, in Cannes, France. They sat down with leaders from three of the world’s biggest hotel brands—Hilton, IHG, and Hyatt—to hear how trends, technology, and travelers' changing desires will shape luxury hotels in 2025.  Featured Guests: Crystal Vinisse Thomas, (Former) Vice President, Global Brand Leader, Lifestyle and Luxury Brands, Hyatt. (Crystal resigned after we recorded this episode.) Jane Mackie, SVP of Luxury, Lifestyle, and Premium Brands at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) Dino Michael, SVP and Global Head, Hilton Luxury Brands **New opportunity: Want to be featured in an episode of Unpacked or have an idea you want us to unpack next? Send us a voicemail here. ** What Travelers Want Most in 2025  In this episode, you’ll learn:  The path to becoming a luxury travel leader in hospitality.  How hotels are helping travelers customize their experiences, loyalty perks and more.  The trends that will help you plan your perfect year of travel—from AI to authentic experiences.  Plan Better Travel With These Luxury Hotel Brands Don’t miss these moments:  [07:28] Sniffing out inauthenticity and how hotels become good neighbors.  [25:26] AI, customization, and getting the most out of loyalty programs.  [36:45] How all-inclusive resorts are gaining a new reputation.  Resources Read the article: 4 Hotel Travel Trends to Watch in 2025. Explore the luxury travel brands at Hilton, Hyatt and InterContinental (IHG). Check out our Hotels We Love series and Stay Here Next reviews. Read the transcript of this episode. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This year in luxury travel, customization is king. Afar’s resident hotel expert, Jennifer Flowers, and editor in chief, Julia Cosgrove, go behind the scenes of ILTM, the International Luxury Travel Market, in Cannes, France. They sat down with leaders from three of the world’s biggest hotel brands—Hilton, IHG, and Hyatt—to hear how trends, technology, and travelers' changing desires will shape luxury hotels in 2025. 

    Featured Guests:


    **New opportunity: Want to be featured in an episode of Unpacked or have an idea you want us to unpack next? Send us a voicemail here. **


    What Travelers Want Most in 2025 

    In this episode, you’ll learn: 

    • The path to becoming a luxury travel leader in hospitality. 
    • How hotels are helping travelers customize their experiences, loyalty perks and more. 
    • The trends that will help you plan your perfect year of travel—from AI to authentic experiences. 


    Plan Better Travel With These Luxury Hotel Brands

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [07:28] Sniffing out inauthenticity and how hotels become good neighbors. 

    [25:26] AI, customization, and getting the most out of loyalty programs. 

    [36:45] How all-inclusive resorts are gaining a new reputation. 


    Resources

    Read the article: 4 Hotel Travel Trends to Watch in 2025.

    Explore the luxury travel brands at Hilton, Hyatt and InterContinental (IHG).

    Check out our Hotels We Love series and Stay Here Next reviews.

    Read the transcript of this episode.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3299     Afar, A Retrospective: The First Female Flamenco Guitarists, Turning Suffering into Passion https://www.afar.com/fifteen This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. “If I travel to you, will you give me lessons?” When former child prodigy, Lavinia Spalding, emailed the biggest female flamenco guitarists in Spain, she was shocked when they all agreed to teach her. In this episode, she follows an abandoned dream to Madrid, Granada, and Barcelona, Spain to immerse herself in the new world of female flamenco guitar.  Follow Along with Revolutionary “Tacaoras” In this episode, discover:  What flamenco means to the women who are paving the way for female flamenco guitarists.  The origins of flamenco and its important elements.  Some of the biggest names in flamenco guitar from Paco de Lucía to Antonia Jiménez  Breaking Into the Boy’s Club. Don’t miss these transformative travel moments:  [02:07] Following and foregoing my father’s flamenco dreams.  [05:40] The mysterious origins of flamenco. [06:36] A kindred spirit and a familiar melody with Antonia Jiménez. Strumming in the Spirit of “Duende” Lavinia Spalding is the editor of The Best Women’s Travel Writing and co-hosts the podcast There She Goes: travel stories told by the women who wrote them. But at one time, she believed she was destined to become a “tocaora,” a female flamenco guitarist.  In this episode, she follows in her deceased father’s footsteps by traveling to Spain to learn flamenco guitar. Antonia Jiménez, Pilar Alons,o and Marta Robles, some of the most prominent female flamenco guitarists in Spain, are her guides into “duende,” the heartbeat of flamenco that transforms suffering into passion.  Resources:  Read Lavinia’s original story.  Explore Lavinia’s work on her website.  Listen to this playlist that features music by Marta Robles.  Watch these performances by Pilar Alonso and Antonia Jiménez. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 23 Dec 2024 08:01:00 -0000 Afar, A Retrospective: The First Female Flamenco Guitarists, Turning Suffering into Passion bonus 3 Afar This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. “If I travel to you, will you give me lessons?” When former child prodigy, Lavinia Spalding, emailed the biggest female flamenco guitarists in Spain, she was shocked when they all agreed to teach her. In this episode, she follows an abandoned dream to Madrid, Granada, and Barcelona, Spain to immerse herself in the new world of female flamenco guitar.  Follow Along with Revolutionary “Tacaoras” In this episode, discover:  What flamenco means to the women who are paving the way for female flamenco guitarists.  The origins of flamenco and its important elements.  Some of the biggest names in flamenco guitar from Paco de Lucía to Antonia Jiménez  Breaking Into the Boy’s Club. Don’t miss these transformative travel moments:  [02:07] Following and foregoing my father’s flamenco dreams.  [05:40] The mysterious origins of flamenco. [06:36] A kindred spirit and a familiar melody with Antonia Jiménez. Strumming in the Spirit of “Duende” Lavinia Spalding is the editor of The Best Women’s Travel Writing and co-hosts the podcast There She Goes: travel stories told by the women who wrote them. But at one time, she believed she was destined to become a “tocaora,” a female flamenco guitarist.  In this episode, she follows in her deceased father’s footsteps by traveling to Spain to learn flamenco guitar. Antonia Jiménez, Pilar Alons,o and Marta Robles, some of the most prominent female flamenco guitarists in Spain, are her guides into “duende,” the heartbeat of flamenco that transforms suffering into passion.  Resources:  Read Lavinia’s original story.  Explore Lavinia’s work on her website.  Listen to this playlist that features music by Marta Robles.  Watch these performances by Pilar Alonso and Antonia Jiménez. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen.


    “If I travel to you, will you give me lessons?” When former child prodigy, Lavinia Spalding, emailed the biggest female flamenco guitarists in Spain, she was shocked when they all agreed to teach her.


    In this episode, she follows an abandoned dream to Madrid, Granada, and Barcelona, Spain to immerse herself in the new world of female flamenco guitar. 


    Follow Along with Revolutionary “Tacaoras”

    In this episode, discover: 

    • What flamenco means to the women who are paving the way for female flamenco guitarists. 
    • The origins of flamenco and its important elements. 
    • Some of the biggest names in flamenco guitar from Paco de Lucía to Antonia Jiménez 


    Breaking Into the Boy’s Club.

    Don’t miss these transformative travel moments: 

    [02:07] Following and foregoing my father’s flamenco dreams. 

    [05:40] The mysterious origins of flamenco.

    [06:36] A kindred spirit and a familiar melody with Antonia Jiménez.


    Strumming in the Spirit of “Duende”

    Lavinia Spalding is the editor of The Best Women’s Travel Writing and co-hosts the podcast There She Goes: travel stories told by the women who wrote them. But at one time, she believed she was destined to become a “tocaora,” a female flamenco guitarist. 


    In this episode, she follows in her deceased father’s footsteps by traveling to Spain to learn flamenco guitar. Antonia Jiménez, Pilar Alons,o and Marta Robles, some of the most prominent female flamenco guitarists in Spain, are her guides into “duende,” the heartbeat of flamenco that transforms suffering into passion. 


    Resources: 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1096 no     How to Plan Your Best Travel Year: An Astrologer Shares Her 2025 Predictions https://www.afar.com/podcasts Who needs a travel planner when you could consult the cosmos? According to astrologer Adama Sesay, your astrological chart can be the key to an ideal travel year.  On this episode of Unpacked, she breaks down the astrological events to look out for in 2025, shares travel suggestions based on each sign and helps you navigate traveling during a dreaded Mercury retrograde. Wait, When is Mercury in Retrograde in 2025? In this episode you’ll learn:  How astrology can help you plan your ideal year of travel.  What astrologers mean by Mercury retrograde and how that relates to travel.  When and what kind of travel each sign should pursue in 2025.  How to Travel Based on Your Astrological Sign  Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [01:16] How an astrologer makes plans based on the cosmos.  [04:48] Mercury retrograde and other astrology-based travel predictions for 2025.  [11:40] Breaking down travel styles, sign-by-sign.  Your 2025 Astrological Travel Forecast  Adama Sesay shares how astrology can affect travel on an international level and a personal level. From an overview of when and how each sign can make the most of travel in 2025 to how charting a location and keeping in mind astrological events can affect everyone’s travel plans.   Adama Sesay is the author Black Moon Lilith Rising: How to Unlock the Power of the Dark Divine Feminine Through Astrology and the card deck and guidebook Black Moon Lilith Cosmic Alchemy Oracle.  Resources:  Read the transcript of this episode. Follow Adama Sesay on Instagram.   Learn more about her work or book a reading on her website Lilith Astrology.   Read, Where To Travel in 2025 According to Your Astrological Sign.  Compare your travel experiences to her predictions from last year.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 19 Dec 2024 08:01:00 -0000 How to Plan Your Best Travel Year: An Astrologer Shares Her 2025 Predictions full 3 34 Afar Who needs a travel planner when you could consult the cosmos? According to astrologer Adama Sesay, your astrological chart can be the key to an ideal travel year.  On this episode of Unpacked, she breaks down the astrological events to look out for in 2025, shares travel suggestions based on each sign and helps you navigate traveling during a dreaded Mercury retrograde. Wait, When is Mercury in Retrograde in 2025? In this episode you’ll learn:  How astrology can help you plan your ideal year of travel.  What astrologers mean by Mercury retrograde and how that relates to travel.  When and what kind of travel each sign should pursue in 2025.  How to Travel Based on Your Astrological Sign  Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [01:16] How an astrologer makes plans based on the cosmos.  [04:48] Mercury retrograde and other astrology-based travel predictions for 2025.  [11:40] Breaking down travel styles, sign-by-sign.  Your 2025 Astrological Travel Forecast  Adama Sesay shares how astrology can affect travel on an international level and a personal level. From an overview of when and how each sign can make the most of travel in 2025 to how charting a location and keeping in mind astrological events can affect everyone’s travel plans.   Adama Sesay is the author Black Moon Lilith Rising: How to Unlock the Power of the Dark Divine Feminine Through Astrology and the card deck and guidebook Black Moon Lilith Cosmic Alchemy Oracle.  Resources:  Read the transcript of this episode. Follow Adama Sesay on Instagram.   Learn more about her work or book a reading on her website Lilith Astrology.   Read, Where To Travel in 2025 According to Your Astrological Sign.  Compare your travel experiences to her predictions from last year.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Who needs a travel planner when you could consult the cosmos? According to astrologer Adama Sesay, your astrological chart can be the key to an ideal travel year. 


    On this episode of Unpacked, she breaks down the astrological events to look out for in 2025, shares travel suggestions based on each sign and helps you navigate traveling during a dreaded Mercury retrograde.


    Wait, When is Mercury in Retrograde in 2025?

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • How astrology can help you plan your ideal year of travel. 
    • What astrologers mean by Mercury retrograde and how that relates to travel. 
    • When and what kind of travel each sign should pursue in 2025. 


    How to Travel Based on Your Astrological Sign 

    Don’t miss these memorable moments: 

    [01:16] How an astrologer makes plans based on the cosmos. 

    [04:48] Mercury retrograde and other astrology-based travel predictions for 2025. 

    [11:40] Breaking down travel styles, sign-by-sign. 


    Your 2025 Astrological Travel Forecast 

    Adama Sesay shares how astrology can affect travel on an international level and a personal level. From an overview of when and how each sign can make the most of travel in 2025 to how charting a location and keeping in mind astrological events can affect everyone’s travel plans.  

    Adama Sesay is the author Black Moon Lilith Rising: How to Unlock the Power of the Dark Divine Feminine Through Astrology and the card deck and guidebook Black Moon Lilith Cosmic Alchemy Oracle. 

    Resources: 

    Read the transcript of this episode.

    Follow Adama Sesay on Instagram.  

    Learn more about her work or book a reading on her website Lilith Astrology.  

    Read, Where To Travel in 2025 According to Your Astrological Sign. 

    Compare your travel experiences to her predictions from last year. 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2025 no     9 Inspiring Companies Changing the Way We Travel https://www.afar.com/travel-inspiration/people/vanguard In our annual Travel Vanguard awards, Afar honors nine companies that are working to improve the world and how travelers experience it. We launched the Afar Travel Vanguard in 2016 to celebrate organizations that are making travel a force for good. This year, we received more than 100 nominations from travel professionals and organizations around the world. Narrowing down the list was no easy task since, fortunately, there are more organizations than ever pioneering efforts in sustainability, diversity, or accessibility. Our nine honorees include a cruise line providing vital medical care to residents of remote islands, a destination focused on making vacations easier for neurodivergent people, and a resort company supporting and elevating its local communities. May their stories inspire you to travel more respectfully and consciously. In this episode, we talk with Ellen Carpenter, a NYC-based writer and editor who interviewed all nine winners. Meet the winners of the 2025 Afar Travel Vanguard Visit Myrtle Beach: For making vacations smoother for autistic families Tourism Cares: For connecting travelers with more meaningful experiences across the world Visit Lauderdale: For being a committed ally to LGBTQ+ travelers Quark Expeditions: For showcasing the culture and food traditions of Greenland and Canada Sandals Foundation: For lifting up its Caribbean communities Destination Canada: For developing and supporting under-visited regions across the country Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy: For investing in the futures of people in the areas where its guests travel Paul Gauguin Cruises: For providing much-needed medical assistance in French Polynesia Switzerland Tourism: For uniting the Swiss tourism industry in a shared commitment to sustainability Resources Meet the previous members of the Afar Travel Vanguard. Explore Ellen Carpenter's work. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 16 Dec 2024 08:01:00 -0000 9 Inspiring Companies Changing the Way We Travel bonus 3 Afar In our annual Travel Vanguard awards, Afar honors nine companies that are working to improve the world and how travelers experience it. We launched the Afar Travel Vanguard in 2016 to celebrate organizations that are making travel a force for good. This year, we received more than 100 nominations from travel professionals and organizations around the world. Narrowing down the list was no easy task since, fortunately, there are more organizations than ever pioneering efforts in sustainability, diversity, or accessibility. Our nine honorees include a cruise line providing vital medical care to residents of remote islands, a destination focused on making vacations easier for neurodivergent people, and a resort company supporting and elevating its local communities. May their stories inspire you to travel more respectfully and consciously. In this episode, we talk with Ellen Carpenter, a NYC-based writer and editor who interviewed all nine winners. Meet the winners of the 2025 Afar Travel Vanguard Visit Myrtle Beach: For making vacations smoother for autistic families Tourism Cares: For connecting travelers with more meaningful experiences across the world Visit Lauderdale: For being a committed ally to LGBTQ+ travelers Quark Expeditions: For showcasing the culture and food traditions of Greenland and Canada Sandals Foundation: For lifting up its Caribbean communities Destination Canada: For developing and supporting under-visited regions across the country Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy: For investing in the futures of people in the areas where its guests travel Paul Gauguin Cruises: For providing much-needed medical assistance in French Polynesia Switzerland Tourism: For uniting the Swiss tourism industry in a shared commitment to sustainability Resources Meet the previous members of the Afar Travel Vanguard. Explore Ellen Carpenter's work. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In our annual Travel Vanguard awards, Afar honors nine companies that are working to improve the world and how travelers experience it. We launched the Afar Travel Vanguard in 2016 to celebrate organizations that are making travel a force for good. This year, we received more than 100 nominations from travel professionals and organizations around the world. Narrowing down the list was no easy task since, fortunately, there are more organizations than ever pioneering efforts in sustainability, diversity, or accessibility.

    Our nine honorees include a cruise line providing vital medical care to residents of remote islands, a destination focused on making vacations easier for neurodivergent people, and a resort company supporting and elevating its local communities. May their stories inspire you to travel more respectfully and consciously.

    In this episode, we talk with Ellen Carpenter, a NYC-based writer and editor who interviewed all nine winners.

    Meet the winners of the 2025 Afar Travel Vanguard

    Visit Myrtle Beach: For making vacations smoother for autistic families

    Tourism Cares: For connecting travelers with more meaningful experiences across the world

    Visit Lauderdale: For being a committed ally to LGBTQ+ travelers

    Quark Expeditions: For showcasing the culture and food traditions of Greenland and Canada

    Sandals Foundation: For lifting up its Caribbean communities

    Destination Canada: For developing and supporting under-visited regions across the country

    Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy: For investing in the futures of people in the areas where its guests travel

    Paul Gauguin Cruises: For providing much-needed medical assistance in French Polynesia

    Switzerland Tourism: For uniting the Swiss tourism industry in a shared commitment to sustainability


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1653 no     ”Wonder Is Real and it Lives Here.” The Most Wintry Place in North America. https://www.afar.com/podcasts Winter is the best time to visit the Yukon territory. Follow one writer as she travels by dog sled and snowmobile, dons snowshoes for a hike through Tombstone Territorial Park and witnesses the beauty of the northern lights and communal reclamation alongside locals. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, we follow the infamous “call of the wild” into the Canadian Yukon.  How To Plan a Winter Trip to the Yukon Territory In this episode you’ll learn:  How to travel in Yukon Territory during the winter, from snowmobiles to dogsleds.  The tour groups that give you insider experiences of the Yukon’s winter wonders.  Local landmarks that you have to visit in the winter.  See the Northern Lights with Local Guides Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [04:35] Mushing: Crossing Tagish Lake on a dog sled.   [09:46] Seeing the aurora borealis from a local’s backyard in West Dawson.  [18:25] “I’m reclaiming my land because of the gold rush…”  “Sourdoughs” and “Cheechakos”: Winter Life in the Yukon Writer, Debbie Olson, is a Métis Canadian local who has explored and visited every Canadian province and territory, including the Yukon. But the Yukon in winter? That’s a legendary experience that deserves its own category.  Follow along as she is guided into the wonders of the Yukon in the winter through the wonder of winter by locals who call the Yukon home, including a professional dog sled driver (musher) and a member of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation who is reclaiming her land.  Resources:  Read Debbie’s print story that inspired this episode.  Read the transcript of this episode.  Explore the tour operators that Debbie traveled with: the Klondike Experience, Tagish Lake Kennel Tours and Entreé Destinations.  Listen to this Travel Tales episode about polar bears in Canada and this episode about a tour guide’s efforts to preserve a part of the Canadian coastline.  Check out Debbie’s other work at Wander Woman Travel Magazine.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 12 Dec 2024 08:01:00 -0000 ”Wonder Is Real and it Lives Here.” The Most Wintry Place in North America. full 3 33 Afar Winter is the best time to visit the Yukon territory. Follow one writer as she travels by dog sled and snowmobile, dons snowshoes for a hike through Tombstone Territorial Park and witnesses the beauty of the northern lights and communal reclamation alongside locals. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, we follow the infamous “call of the wild” into the Canadian Yukon.  How To Plan a Winter Trip to the Yukon Territory In this episode you’ll learn:  How to travel in Yukon Territory during the winter, from snowmobiles to dogsleds.  The tour groups that give you insider experiences of the Yukon’s winter wonders.  Local landmarks that you have to visit in the winter.  See the Northern Lights with Local Guides Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [04:35] Mushing: Crossing Tagish Lake on a dog sled.   [09:46] Seeing the aurora borealis from a local’s backyard in West Dawson.  [18:25] “I’m reclaiming my land because of the gold rush…”  “Sourdoughs” and “Cheechakos”: Winter Life in the Yukon Writer, Debbie Olson, is a Métis Canadian local who has explored and visited every Canadian province and territory, including the Yukon. But the Yukon in winter? That’s a legendary experience that deserves its own category.  Follow along as she is guided into the wonders of the Yukon in the winter through the wonder of winter by locals who call the Yukon home, including a professional dog sled driver (musher) and a member of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation who is reclaiming her land.  Resources:  Read Debbie’s print story that inspired this episode.  Read the transcript of this episode.  Explore the tour operators that Debbie traveled with: the Klondike Experience, Tagish Lake Kennel Tours and Entreé Destinations.  Listen to this Travel Tales episode about polar bears in Canada and this episode about a tour guide’s efforts to preserve a part of the Canadian coastline.  Check out Debbie’s other work at Wander Woman Travel Magazine.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Winter is the best time to visit the Yukon territory. Follow one writer as she travels by dog sled and snowmobile, dons snowshoes for a hike through Tombstone Territorial Park and witnesses the beauty of the northern lights and communal reclamation alongside locals. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, we follow the infamous “call of the wild” into the Canadian Yukon. 


    How To Plan a Winter Trip to the Yukon Territory

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • How to travel in Yukon Territory during the winter, from snowmobiles to dogsleds. 
    • The tour groups that give you insider experiences of the Yukon’s winter wonders. 
    • Local landmarks that you have to visit in the winter. 


    See the Northern Lights with Local Guides

    Don’t miss these memorable moments: 

    [04:35] Mushing: Crossing Tagish Lake on a dog sled.  

    [09:46] Seeing the aurora borealis from a local’s backyard in West Dawson. 

    [18:25] “I’m reclaiming my land because of the gold rush…” 


    “Sourdoughs” and “Cheechakos”: Winter Life in the Yukon

    Writer, Debbie Olson, is a Métis Canadian local who has explored and visited every Canadian province and territory, including the Yukon. But the Yukon in winter? That’s a legendary experience that deserves its own category. 


    Follow along as she is guided into the wonders of the Yukon in the winter through the wonder of winter by locals who call the Yukon home, including a professional dog sled driver (musher) and a member of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation who is reclaiming her land. 


    Resources: 


    Read Debbie’s print story that inspired this episode. 

    Read the transcript of this episode. 

    Explore the tour operators that Debbie traveled with: the Klondike Experience, Tagish Lake Kennel Tours and Entreé Destinations. 

    Listen to this Travel Tales episode about polar bears in Canada and this episode about a tour guide’s efforts to preserve a part of the Canadian coastline. 

    Check out Debbie’s other work at Wander Woman Travel Magazine. 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1755 no     How To Navigate the New Rules of Tipping https://www.afar.com/podcasts Wondering when, where and how much to tip when you travel? Since the pandemic, tipping requests show up in places they never have before, such as farmers' markets and fast-food counters. In this episode, two experts help you navigate the changing landscape of tipping so you can tip with respect to the people who serve you and to your wallet, wherever you go.  Tips to Improve Prompt Service In this episode you’ll learn:  Typical tips for any situation from hospitality staff to baristas.  How states like California are combatting tipping with legal intervention.  The “why” behind tipping and how that has changed.  Bellmen, Valet and Baristas: Who Do I Tip? Don’t miss these moments:  [05:48] A Victorian tipping origin story.  [15:24] How has tipping culture changed in the U.S.?  [21:38] A tipping hack for hospitality staff.  The New Rules of Tipping. Elaine Swann, an etiquette guru and founder of the Swan School of Protocol joins Dr. Jaime Peters, a personal finance expert, finance dean and professor at Maryville University, to help you navigate the new world of tipping.  From unpacking tipping misconceptions to national tipping trends, they untangle the etiquette dilemmas of a rise in tipping culture to help you make tipping decisions with confidence and a good conscience.  Resources:  Read the full transcript of this episode. Explore Afar guides for tipping for Mexico, France, and an all-inclusive resort.  Check out the Economic Policy Institute’s minimum wage tracker.  Listen to this episode of Unpacked: How to Budget for Travel, No Matter Your Income. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 05 Dec 2024 08:01:00 -0000 How To Navigate the New Rules of Tipping full 3 32 Afar Wondering when, where and how much to tip when you travel? Since the pandemic, tipping requests show up in places they never have before, such as farmers' markets and fast-food counters. In this episode, two experts help you navigate the changing landscape of tipping so you can tip with respect to the people who serve you and to your wallet, wherever you go.  Tips to Improve Prompt Service In this episode you’ll learn:  Typical tips for any situation from hospitality staff to baristas.  How states like California are combatting tipping with legal intervention.  The “why” behind tipping and how that has changed.  Bellmen, Valet and Baristas: Who Do I Tip? Don’t miss these moments:  [05:48] A Victorian tipping origin story.  [15:24] How has tipping culture changed in the U.S.?  [21:38] A tipping hack for hospitality staff.  The New Rules of Tipping. Elaine Swann, an etiquette guru and founder of the Swan School of Protocol joins Dr. Jaime Peters, a personal finance expert, finance dean and professor at Maryville University, to help you navigate the new world of tipping.  From unpacking tipping misconceptions to national tipping trends, they untangle the etiquette dilemmas of a rise in tipping culture to help you make tipping decisions with confidence and a good conscience.  Resources:  Read the full transcript of this episode. Explore Afar guides for tipping for Mexico, France, and an all-inclusive resort.  Check out the Economic Policy Institute’s minimum wage tracker.  Listen to this episode of Unpacked: How to Budget for Travel, No Matter Your Income. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wondering when, where and how much to tip when you travel? Since the pandemic, tipping requests show up in places they never have before, such as farmers' markets and fast-food counters. In this episode, two experts help you navigate the changing landscape of tipping so you can tip with respect to the people who serve you and to your wallet, wherever you go. 


    Tips to Improve Prompt Service

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • Typical tips for any situation from hospitality staff to baristas. 
    • How states like California are combatting tipping with legal intervention. 
    • The “why” behind tipping and how that has changed. 


    Bellmen, Valet and Baristas: Who Do I Tip?

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [05:48] A Victorian tipping origin story. 

    [15:24] How has tipping culture changed in the U.S.? 

    [21:38] A tipping hack for hospitality staff. 

    The New Rules of Tipping.

    Elaine Swann, an etiquette guru and founder of the Swan School of Protocol joins Dr. Jaime Peters, a personal finance expert, finance dean and professor at Maryville University, to help you navigate the new world of tipping. 

    From unpacking tipping misconceptions to national tipping trends, they untangle the etiquette dilemmas of a rise in tipping culture to help you make tipping decisions with confidence and a good conscience. 

    Resources: 

    Read the full transcript of this episode.

    Explore Afar guides for tipping for Mexico, France, and an all-inclusive resort. 

    Check out the Economic Policy Institute’s minimum wage tracker. 

    Listen to this episode of Unpacked: How to Budget for Travel, No Matter Your Income.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1704 no     Afar, A Retrospective: A Poet’s Travel Guide to Lisbon, Portugal https://www.afar.com/fifteen This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. Two months after her house burned down, Afar sent the award-winning author of Miss Burma, Charmaine Craig, to Lisbon, Portugal, with 24 hours’ notice. Without a plan, Charmaine aimlessly follows tourists through cobbled streets before stumbling upon the grave of one of the country’s most beloved authors: Fernando Pessoa. Following in his footprints, her trip transforms into a poetic journey through loss, impermanence, and hope.  Portugal’s Elusive Poet: Fernando Pessoa In this episode discover:  The world’s oldest bookstore, Livraria Bertrand.   How Portugals’ streets recovered after fire and earthquakes.  Where to follow Francis Pessoa’s legacy in Lisbon.  Twin Flames, Twin Houses Don’t miss these transformative moments:  [01:39] Lost history and landing in Lisbon.  [05:02] Meeting Francis Pessoa: a master poet of impermanence.  [08:00] Echoes of destruction, from L.A. to Lisbon.  A Literary Adventure in Lisbon The only book Charmaine Craig brought to Lisbon was The Book of Disquiet by Francis Pessoa. Though she knew the author lived in Lisbon,Charmaine didn’t expect to stumble upon his tomb in her first 24 hours. In this episode, an unplanned trip to Portugal becomes a deeply personal, poetic tour through grief, impermanence, and hope.  Resources:  Read Charmaine’s original story.  Visit Charmaine’s website and buy her books, Miss Burma and My Nemesis. Plan a trip to Lisbon with Afar with content like the best things to do and see or these guides to the perfect day or weekend. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 03 Dec 2024 08:01:00 -0000 Afar, A Retrospective: A Poet’s Travel Guide to Lisbon, Portugal bonus 3 Afar This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. Two months after her house burned down, Afar sent the award-winning author of Miss Burma, Charmaine Craig, to Lisbon, Portugal, with 24 hours’ notice. Without a plan, Charmaine aimlessly follows tourists through cobbled streets before stumbling upon the grave of one of the country’s most beloved authors: Fernando Pessoa. Following in his footprints, her trip transforms into a poetic journey through loss, impermanence, and hope.  Portugal’s Elusive Poet: Fernando Pessoa In this episode discover:  The world’s oldest bookstore, Livraria Bertrand.   How Portugals’ streets recovered after fire and earthquakes.  Where to follow Francis Pessoa’s legacy in Lisbon.  Twin Flames, Twin Houses Don’t miss these transformative moments:  [01:39] Lost history and landing in Lisbon.  [05:02] Meeting Francis Pessoa: a master poet of impermanence.  [08:00] Echoes of destruction, from L.A. to Lisbon.  A Literary Adventure in Lisbon The only book Charmaine Craig brought to Lisbon was The Book of Disquiet by Francis Pessoa. Though she knew the author lived in Lisbon,Charmaine didn’t expect to stumble upon his tomb in her first 24 hours. In this episode, an unplanned trip to Portugal becomes a deeply personal, poetic tour through grief, impermanence, and hope.  Resources:  Read Charmaine’s original story.  Visit Charmaine’s website and buy her books, Miss Burma and My Nemesis. Plan a trip to Lisbon with Afar with content like the best things to do and see or these guides to the perfect day or weekend. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen.


    Two months after her house burned down, Afar sent the award-winning author of Miss Burma, Charmaine Craig, to Lisbon, Portugal, with 24 hours’ notice. Without a plan, Charmaine aimlessly follows tourists through cobbled streets before stumbling upon the grave of one of the country’s most beloved authors: Fernando Pessoa. Following in his footprints, her trip transforms into a poetic journey through loss, impermanence, and hope. 


    Portugal’s Elusive Poet: Fernando Pessoa

    In this episode discover: 

    • The world’s oldest bookstore, Livraria Bertrand.  
    • How Portugals’ streets recovered after fire and earthquakes. 
    • Where to follow Francis Pessoa’s legacy in Lisbon. 


    Twin Flames, Twin Houses

    Don’t miss these transformative moments: 

    [01:39] Lost history and landing in Lisbon. 

    [05:02] Meeting Francis Pessoa: a master poet of impermanence. 

    [08:00] Echoes of destruction, from L.A. to Lisbon. 


    A Literary Adventure in Lisbon

    The only book Charmaine Craig brought to Lisbon was The Book of Disquiet by Francis Pessoa. Though she knew the author lived in Lisbon,Charmaine didn’t expect to stumble upon his tomb in her first 24 hours. In this episode, an unplanned trip to Portugal becomes a deeply personal, poetic tour through grief, impermanence, and hope. 


    Resources: 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1006 no     Holiday Replay: Ever Wonder Where Unclaimed Luggage Ends Up? This Alabama Store Has the Answer. https://www.afar.com/podcasts What happens to suitcases that can’t be reunited with their owners? It’s not something we think about that often, but for Bryan Owens, it’s an entire business. He’s the CEO and now-owner of the Scottsboro, Alabama–based Unclaimed Baggage, the only store in the United States that sells lost luggage. As you’ll hear in today’s episode, his dad launched the business more than 50 years ago with an old Chevy pickup and $300. And now the business stocks more than 7,000 new items a day.  The company recently released its first annual Found Report, a deep dive into the more than 2 million items that came through its doors in 2023, including including the aforementioned live snakes and fancy handbags. Host Aislyn Greene talks with Bryan about where these bags come from, how the company makes decisions about what to sell and, more interestingly, what it does with everything else: Donations and partnerships with organizations like Wheels for the World are critical to its mission.  Meet this week’s guest Bryan Owens, CEO and owner of Unclaimed Baggage Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Check out Unclaimed Baggage.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to Afar’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 28 Nov 2024 08:01:00 -0000 Holiday Replay: Ever Wonder Where Unclaimed Luggage Ends Up? This Alabama Store Has the Answer. bonus 3 Afar What happens to suitcases that can’t be reunited with their owners? It’s not something we think about that often, but for Bryan Owens, it’s an entire business. He’s the CEO and now-owner of the Scottsboro, Alabama–based Unclaimed Baggage, the only store in the United States that sells lost luggage. As you’ll hear in today’s episode, his dad launched the business more than 50 years ago with an old Chevy pickup and $300. And now the business stocks more than 7,000 new items a day.  The company recently released its first annual Found Report, a deep dive into the more than 2 million items that came through its doors in 2023, including including the aforementioned live snakes and fancy handbags. Host Aislyn Greene talks with Bryan about where these bags come from, how the company makes decisions about what to sell and, more interestingly, what it does with everything else: Donations and partnerships with organizations like Wheels for the World are critical to its mission.  Meet this week’s guest Bryan Owens, CEO and owner of Unclaimed Baggage Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Check out Unclaimed Baggage.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to Afar’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What happens to suitcases that can’t be reunited with their owners? It’s not something we think about that often, but for Bryan Owens, it’s an entire business. He’s the CEO and now-owner of the Scottsboro, Alabama–based Unclaimed Baggage, the only store in the United States that sells lost luggage. As you’ll hear in today’s episode, his dad launched the business more than 50 years ago with an old Chevy pickup and $300. And now the business stocks more than 7,000 new items a day. 

    The company recently released its first annual Found Report, a deep dive into the more than 2 million items that came through its doors in 2023, including including the aforementioned live snakes and fancy handbags. Host Aislyn Greene talks with Bryan about where these bags come from, how the company makes decisions about what to sell and, more interestingly, what it does with everything else: Donations and partnerships with organizations like Wheels for the World are critical to its mission. 

    Meet this week’s guest

    • Bryan Owens, CEO and owner of Unclaimed Baggage


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2291 no     The 25 Most Exciting, Crowd-Free Places to Visit in 2025 https://www.afar.com/podcasts Mark our words: 2025 will be the year of crowd-free travel. That’s why our editors and contributors spent months seeking out 25 incredible, undertouristed destinations to explore next year. Our annual Where to Go list spotlights under-the-radar escapes, alternatives to popular hotspots, and interesting places around the world you may have been overlooking for too long. And in this episode of Unpacked by Afar, four editors share how they chose those places, where they're most excited to visit, and how to make a positive impact when you travel. This episode will help you plan an epic travel year—and feel good while doing it.  Overtourism No More In this episode you’ll learn:  What travelers need to know about the changing travel landscape in 2025.  How Afar editors are combating overtourism and promoting travel as a force for good.  The places our editors can’t wait to visit, including the beaches of Denmark’s Riviera, a scenic road trip along Maine’s coast, dark-sky sites on New Zealand's Aotea Great Barrier Island, a remote, wildlife-packed part of Patagonia where few people have ever set foot, and more. Where Should I Go Next? Don’t miss these moments:  [01:57] What makes this “Where to Go” list different from the rest.  [07:48] The destinations these travel experts can’t wait to visit.  [15:08] How to get off the tourist trails and make a positive impact on a place.  [19:17] What you need to know about travel in 2025.   Our Editors Guide You to the Places That Want Tourists Each Afar editor brings unique expertise to this roundtable discussion. Sarika Bansal has lived on five continents and is the editorial director of Afar magazine, as well as the editor of the book, Tread Brightly: Notes on Ethical Travel. Billie Cohen, Afar’s executive editor, spent more than three years as a digital nomad and has a soft spot for nerd travel. Tim Chester focuses on destination inspiration and sustainable travel as deputy editor. And when it comes to info and breaking news about the air, cruise, and consumer travel spaces, deputy editor Michelle Baran is our go-to travel expert. In this episode, they take us behind the scenes of this year’s Where To Go list, share what excites them as travelers, and reveal how their work inspires readers to go out into the world and use travel as a force for good.  Resources Read the transcript of this episode.  Explore the Where To Go in 2025 list.  Still want to go to a popular tourist destination? Here’s how to get off the tourist trail.  How to get your Real ID, and keep up with updates on traveling to Europe and the UK.  Follow Afar on Instagram, to see these destinations come to life in a new way.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 18 Nov 2024 14:00:00 -0000 The 25 Most Exciting, Crowd-Free Places to Visit in 2025 full 3 30 Afar Mark our words: 2025 will be the year of crowd-free travel. That’s why our editors and contributors spent months seeking out 25 incredible, undertouristed destinations to explore next year. Our annual Where to Go list spotlights under-the-radar escapes, alternatives to popular hotspots, and interesting places around the world you may have been overlooking for too long. And in this episode of Unpacked by Afar, four editors share how they chose those places, where they're most excited to visit, and how to make a positive impact when you travel. This episode will help you plan an epic travel year—and feel good while doing it.  Overtourism No More In this episode you’ll learn:  What travelers need to know about the changing travel landscape in 2025.  How Afar editors are combating overtourism and promoting travel as a force for good.  The places our editors can’t wait to visit, including the beaches of Denmark’s Riviera, a scenic road trip along Maine’s coast, dark-sky sites on New Zealand's Aotea Great Barrier Island, a remote, wildlife-packed part of Patagonia where few people have ever set foot, and more. Where Should I Go Next? Don’t miss these moments:  [01:57] What makes this “Where to Go” list different from the rest.  [07:48] The destinations these travel experts can’t wait to visit.  [15:08] How to get off the tourist trails and make a positive impact on a place.  [19:17] What you need to know about travel in 2025.   Our Editors Guide You to the Places That Want Tourists Each Afar editor brings unique expertise to this roundtable discussion. Sarika Bansal has lived on five continents and is the editorial director of Afar magazine, as well as the editor of the book, Tread Brightly: Notes on Ethical Travel. Billie Cohen, Afar’s executive editor, spent more than three years as a digital nomad and has a soft spot for nerd travel. Tim Chester focuses on destination inspiration and sustainable travel as deputy editor. And when it comes to info and breaking news about the air, cruise, and consumer travel spaces, deputy editor Michelle Baran is our go-to travel expert. In this episode, they take us behind the scenes of this year’s Where To Go list, share what excites them as travelers, and reveal how their work inspires readers to go out into the world and use travel as a force for good.  Resources Read the transcript of this episode.  Explore the Where To Go in 2025 list.  Still want to go to a popular tourist destination? Here’s how to get off the tourist trail.  How to get your Real ID, and keep up with updates on traveling to Europe and the UK.  Follow Afar on Instagram, to see these destinations come to life in a new way.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mark our words: 2025 will be the year of crowd-free travel. That’s why our editors and contributors spent months seeking out 25 incredible, undertouristed destinations to explore next year. Our annual Where to Go list spotlights under-the-radar escapes, alternatives to popular hotspots, and interesting places around the world you may have been overlooking for too long. And in this episode of Unpacked by Afar, four editors share how they chose those places, where they're most excited to visit, and how to make a positive impact when you travel. This episode will help you plan an epic travel year—and feel good while doing it. 

    Overtourism No More

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • What travelers need to know about the changing travel landscape in 2025. 
    • How Afar editors are combating overtourism and promoting travel as a force for good. 
    • The places our editors can’t wait to visit, including the beaches of Denmark’s Riviera, a scenic road trip along Maine’s coast, dark-sky sites on New Zealand's Aotea Great Barrier Island, a remote, wildlife-packed part of Patagonia where few people have ever set foot, and more.


    Where Should I Go Next?

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [01:57] What makes this “Where to Go” list different from the rest. 

    [07:48] The destinations these travel experts can’t wait to visit. 

    [15:08] How to get off the tourist trails and make a positive impact on a place. 

    [19:17] What you need to know about travel in 2025.  


    Our Editors Guide You to the Places That Want Tourists

    Each Afar editor brings unique expertise to this roundtable discussion. Sarika Bansal has lived on five continents and is the editorial director of Afar magazine, as well as the editor of the book, Tread Brightly: Notes on Ethical Travel. Billie Cohen, Afar’s executive editor, spent more than three years as a digital nomad and has a soft spot for nerd travel. Tim Chester focuses on destination inspiration and sustainable travel as deputy editor. And when it comes to info and breaking news about the air, cruise, and consumer travel spaces, deputy editor Michelle Baran is our go-to travel expert.

    In this episode, they take us behind the scenes of this year’s Where To Go list, share what excites them as travelers, and reveal how their work inspires readers to go out into the world and use travel as a force for good. 


    Resources

    Read the transcript of this episode. 

    Explore the Where To Go in 2025 list. 

    Still want to go to a popular tourist destination? Here’s how to get off the tourist trail. 

    How to get your Real ID, and keep up with updates on traveling to Europe and the UK. 

    Follow Afar on Instagram, to see these destinations come to life in a new way. 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2131 no     Afar, A Retrospective: A Malaysian Chef Reclaims Her Past with Laksa https://www.afar.com/fifteen This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. A pet orangutan, a 106-year-old grandma, and a wedding where 10,000 guests were fed. When writer and host of NPR’s The Splendid Table, Francis Lam, heard stories from his friend Azalalina Eusope about her life in Penang, Malaysia, he couldn’t help but marvel at them.   But when the San Francisco-based chef (who has served Barack Obama and the Malaysian prime minister) invites Francis to come home with her after a decade away, he discovers the complex family dynamics that underpin her stories—and the ways that food can bind even the most complicated families.  Five Generations of Street Vendors  In this episode, explore: What it’s like to visit street vendors in Penang, Malaysia   How a fine-dining chef recreates traditional Malaysian dishes    Some of the food traditions of the Mamak people in Malaysia  Remaking the Past with Laksa Don’t miss these transformative moments:  [04:09] Star anise and curry: Rediscovering Malaysia’s comforts.  [08:42] The sights, smells and salts of Penang’s street food scene.   [10:04] “I felt so gross for having my notebook with me.” A bittersweet homecoming.  Time Travel Through Tripe Salad As a teen, Azalina Eusope vowed she wouldn’t follow in the footsteps of the four generations of Mamak street vendors that came before her. In this episode, the San-Francisco based, Malaysian chef returns home with writer and host of NPR’s The Splendid Table, Francis Lam. Together, they discover how cooking Malaysian dishes does more than preserve her culture—it grants her the power to reclaim it.  Resources:  Read Francis’ original story on afar.com Follow Francis Lam on Instagram  Dine at Azalina’s in San Francisco Check out NPR’s The Splendid Table Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 14 Nov 2024 18:10:00 -0000 Afar, A Retrospective: A Malaysian Chef Reclaims Her Past with Laksa bonus 3 Afar This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. A pet orangutan, a 106-year-old grandma, and a wedding where 10,000 guests were fed. When writer and host of NPR’s The Splendid Table, Francis Lam, heard stories from his friend Azalalina Eusope about her life in Penang, Malaysia, he couldn’t help but marvel at them.   But when the San Francisco-based chef (who has served Barack Obama and the Malaysian prime minister) invites Francis to come home with her after a decade away, he discovers the complex family dynamics that underpin her stories—and the ways that food can bind even the most complicated families.  Five Generations of Street Vendors  In this episode, explore: What it’s like to visit street vendors in Penang, Malaysia   How a fine-dining chef recreates traditional Malaysian dishes    Some of the food traditions of the Mamak people in Malaysia  Remaking the Past with Laksa Don’t miss these transformative moments:  [04:09] Star anise and curry: Rediscovering Malaysia’s comforts.  [08:42] The sights, smells and salts of Penang’s street food scene.   [10:04] “I felt so gross for having my notebook with me.” A bittersweet homecoming.  Time Travel Through Tripe Salad As a teen, Azalina Eusope vowed she wouldn’t follow in the footsteps of the four generations of Mamak street vendors that came before her. In this episode, the San-Francisco based, Malaysian chef returns home with writer and host of NPR’s The Splendid Table, Francis Lam. Together, they discover how cooking Malaysian dishes does more than preserve her culture—it grants her the power to reclaim it.  Resources:  Read Francis’ original story on afar.com Follow Francis Lam on Instagram  Dine at Azalina’s in San Francisco Check out NPR’s The Splendid Table Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen.

    A pet orangutan, a 106-year-old grandma, and a wedding where 10,000 guests were fed. When writer and host of NPR’s The Splendid Table, Francis Lam, heard stories from his friend Azalalina Eusope about her life in Penang, Malaysia, he couldn’t help but marvel at them.  

    But when the San Francisco-based chef (who has served Barack Obama and the Malaysian prime minister) invites Francis to come home with her after a decade away, he discovers the complex family dynamics that underpin her stories—and the ways that food can bind even the most complicated families. 

    Five Generations of Street Vendors 

    In this episode, explore:

    • What it’s like to visit street vendors in Penang, Malaysia  
    • How a fine-dining chef recreates traditional Malaysian dishes   
    • Some of the food traditions of the Mamak people in Malaysia 


    Remaking the Past with Laksa

    Don’t miss these transformative moments: 

    [04:09] Star anise and curry: Rediscovering Malaysia’s comforts. 

    [08:42] The sights, smells and salts of Penang’s street food scene.  

    [10:04] “I felt so gross for having my notebook with me.” A bittersweet homecoming. 

    Time Travel Through Tripe Salad

    As a teen, Azalina Eusope vowed she wouldn’t follow in the footsteps of the four generations of Mamak street vendors that came before her.

    In this episode, the San-Francisco based, Malaysian chef returns home with writer and host of NPR’s The Splendid Table, Francis Lam. Together, they discover how cooking Malaysian dishes does more than preserve her culture—it grants her the power to reclaim it. 

    Resources: 

    Read Francis’ original story on afar.com

    Follow Francis Lam on Instagram 

    Dine at Azalina’s in San Francisco

    Check out NPR’s The Splendid Table


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1200 no     The Hack That Will Solve All Your Overpacking Woes https://www.afar.com/podcasts Wendy Mak, the author of The Capsule Wardrobe: 1,000 Outfits From 30 Pieces, shares how to pack with ease by using the philosophy she mastered to help countless clients create capsule wardrobes. From how to create your own capsule travel wardrobe, no matter the weather to multifunctional footwear and space-saving essentials—conquer your packing woes once and for all.  How To Create a Travel Capsule Wardrobe.  In this episode you’ll learn:  How to take the principles of a capsule wardrobe and streamline your packing process.  Wendy’s travel must haves—from her favorite shoes to carriers for toiletries and jewelry.   A stylist approved travel outfit and tips for carry-on essentials. Packing Tips For Every Kind of Vacation.  [06:46] Think separates: Packing guidelines for a sunny vacation.  [08:00] Overpacking need not apply: functional footwear and funky fall weather. [15:24] Lipstick panties, hat clips and other stylist-approved hacks.  Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Buy the "lipstick" underwear, Twoobs sandals, On sneakers, and Bon Maxie toiletry bag Wendy mentions. Buy Wendy’s book, The Capsule Wardrobe: 1,000 Outfits From 30 Pieces. Explore Wendy’s other travel tips on her website.  Read other Afar packing tips, like this story from frequent travelers and this one about packing more efficiently.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 07 Nov 2024 08:01:00 -0000 The Hack That Will Solve All Your Overpacking Woes full 3 29 Afar Wendy Mak, the author of The Capsule Wardrobe: 1,000 Outfits From 30 Pieces, shares how to pack with ease by using the philosophy she mastered to help countless clients create capsule wardrobes. From how to create your own capsule travel wardrobe, no matter the weather to multifunctional footwear and space-saving essentials—conquer your packing woes once and for all.  How To Create a Travel Capsule Wardrobe.  In this episode you’ll learn:  How to take the principles of a capsule wardrobe and streamline your packing process.  Wendy’s travel must haves—from her favorite shoes to carriers for toiletries and jewelry.   A stylist approved travel outfit and tips for carry-on essentials. Packing Tips For Every Kind of Vacation.  [06:46] Think separates: Packing guidelines for a sunny vacation.  [08:00] Overpacking need not apply: functional footwear and funky fall weather. [15:24] Lipstick panties, hat clips and other stylist-approved hacks.  Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Buy the "lipstick" underwear, Twoobs sandals, On sneakers, and Bon Maxie toiletry bag Wendy mentions. Buy Wendy’s book, The Capsule Wardrobe: 1,000 Outfits From 30 Pieces. Explore Wendy’s other travel tips on her website.  Read other Afar packing tips, like this story from frequent travelers and this one about packing more efficiently.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wendy Mak, the author of The Capsule Wardrobe: 1,000 Outfits From 30 Pieces, shares how to pack with ease by using the philosophy she mastered to help countless clients create capsule wardrobes. From how to create your own capsule travel wardrobe, no matter the weather to multifunctional footwear and space-saving essentials—conquer your packing woes once and for all. 


    How To Create a Travel Capsule Wardrobe. 

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • How to take the principles of a capsule wardrobe and streamline your packing process. 
    • Wendy’s travel must haves—from her favorite shoes to carriers for toiletries and jewelry.  
    • A stylist approved travel outfit and tips for carry-on essentials.


    Packing Tips For Every Kind of Vacation. 

    [06:46] Think separates: Packing guidelines for a sunny vacation. 

    [08:00] Overpacking need not apply: functional footwear and funky fall weather.

    [15:24] Lipstick panties, hat clips and other stylist-approved hacks. 


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2210 no     Afar, A Retrospective: Why a Train Trip Across the U.S. Is the Fastest Way to Slow Down https://www.afar.com/podcasts This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. Can a train be a travel destination? Welcome to “Amtrakistan.” On a quest to cure his chronophobia and calm his anxious mind, Eric Weiner, the bestselling author of The Geography of Bliss, books a roomette on an Amtrak train that travels from Washington D.C. to Portland,Oregon.  Crossing the Country in a Caboose On this episode you’ll learn:  What it’s like to take a four day trip on an Amtrak train.  The benefits of train travel for the anxious mind.  What it’s like to stay in a roomette with the best views.  Are Train Trips Worth It? Don’t miss these transformative travel moments:  [01:28] Can a train trip cure my chronophobia?  [06:06] Time: the abundant resource of Amtrakistan.      [09:03] “You’ve got to dance with the train,” she said.  [13:41] Lessons about time, brought to you by Amtrak.  “My Mind Slowed to the Speed of Life” The New York Times best-selling author, Eric Weiner, never left the train during his four day journey— but he discovered a new world. After traversing 2,806 miles, 12 states and four time zones, the compulsive watch checker finally learns to slow down.  In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, step into the world of slow-train-travel and discover how one traveler found peace and connection aboard.  Resources:  Read Eric’s original story. Buy Eric’s book, The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Place on Earth.  Watch the docuseries, Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss.  Check out Eric’s other work.  Explore Afar’s tips for train travel.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 05 Nov 2024 08:01:00 -0000 Afar, A Retrospective: Why a Train Trip Across the U.S. Is the Fastest Way to Slow Down bonus Afar This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. Can a train be a travel destination? Welcome to “Amtrakistan.” On a quest to cure his chronophobia and calm his anxious mind, Eric Weiner, the bestselling author of The Geography of Bliss, books a roomette on an Amtrak train that travels from Washington D.C. to Portland,Oregon.  Crossing the Country in a Caboose On this episode you’ll learn:  What it’s like to take a four day trip on an Amtrak train.  The benefits of train travel for the anxious mind.  What it’s like to stay in a roomette with the best views.  Are Train Trips Worth It? Don’t miss these transformative travel moments:  [01:28] Can a train trip cure my chronophobia?  [06:06] Time: the abundant resource of Amtrakistan.      [09:03] “You’ve got to dance with the train,” she said.  [13:41] Lessons about time, brought to you by Amtrak.  “My Mind Slowed to the Speed of Life” The New York Times best-selling author, Eric Weiner, never left the train during his four day journey— but he discovered a new world. After traversing 2,806 miles, 12 states and four time zones, the compulsive watch checker finally learns to slow down.  In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, step into the world of slow-train-travel and discover how one traveler found peace and connection aboard.  Resources:  Read Eric’s original story. Buy Eric’s book, The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Place on Earth.  Watch the docuseries, Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss.  Check out Eric’s other work.  Explore Afar’s tips for train travel.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen.


    Can a train be a travel destination? Welcome to “Amtrakistan.” On a quest to cure his chronophobia and calm his anxious mind, Eric Weiner, the bestselling author of The Geography of Bliss, books a roomette on an Amtrak train that travels from Washington D.C. to Portland,Oregon. 


    Crossing the Country in a Caboose

    On this episode you’ll learn: 

    • What it’s like to take a four day trip on an Amtrak train. 
    • The benefits of train travel for the anxious mind. 
    • What it’s like to stay in a roomette with the best views. 



    Are Train Trips Worth It?

    Don’t miss these transformative travel moments: 

    [01:28] Can a train trip cure my chronophobia? 

    [06:06] Time: the abundant resource of Amtrakistan.     

    [09:03] “You’ve got to dance with the train,” she said. 

    [13:41] Lessons about time, brought to you by Amtrak. 



    “My Mind Slowed to the Speed of Life”

    The New York Times best-selling author, Eric Weiner, never left the train during his four day journey— but he discovered a new world. After traversing 2,806 miles, 12 states and four time zones, the compulsive watch checker finally learns to slow down. 


    In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, step into the world of slow-train-travel and discover how one traveler found peace and connection aboard. 


    Resources: 

    Read Eric’s original story.

    Buy Eric’s book, The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Place on Earth. 

    Watch the docuseries, Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss. 

    Check out Eric’s other work. 

    Explore Afar’s tips for train travel. 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1258 no     The Creepy, Spooky, and Downright Weird Things That Happen in Our National Parks https://www.afar.com/podcasts Can a scary story inspire you to travel? The hosts of National Park After Dark have been spooking listeners into enjoying the outdoors for years. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, Cassie and Danielle share the stories that continue to haunt them, what it’s like to stay in historic hotels with ghostly reputations, and how these morbid stories created a community of better prepared travelers.  What Can Go Wrong In National Parks? In this episode, you’ll learn:  How these stories can empower travelers to enjoy the outdoors.  Cassie and Danielle’s favorite hikes in U.S. national parks What it’s like to go on a group trip with NPAD and where they’re headed next.  The Cozy, Creepy Vibes of Haunted Hotels  Don’t miss these moments:  [02:57] How National Park After Dark began. A love for the outdoors and a morbid curiosity.  [11:53] Storied stays in haunted hotels: The Stanley Hotel and the Crescent Hotel.  [17:46] Community stories about the weird and creepy things that happen outside.  [23:09] Danielle and Cassie’s favorite national parks.  “Enjoy the View, But Watch Your Back,” For Cassie and Danielle, it was their shared morbid curiosity and separate passions for wildlife and history that led to the creation of National Park After Dark. From the way large predators get a bad rep to the brave, outdoorspeople who made a lasting impact, this episode will inspire you to do your own morbid research and lean into the darker side of national parks.  Resources Read the full transcript of this episode. Visit the National Park After Dark website or follow them on Instagram.  Explore 7 of the most haunted hotels in America.  Plan a trip to Grand Teton National Park or hike the Skyline Trail in Mount Rainier.   Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 31 Oct 2024 07:01:00 -0000 The Creepy, Spooky, and Downright Weird Things That Happen in Our National Parks full 3 28 Afar Can a scary story inspire you to travel? The hosts of National Park After Dark have been spooking listeners into enjoying the outdoors for years. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, Cassie and Danielle share the stories that continue to haunt them, what it’s like to stay in historic hotels with ghostly reputations, and how these morbid stories created a community of better prepared travelers.  What Can Go Wrong In National Parks? In this episode, you’ll learn:  How these stories can empower travelers to enjoy the outdoors.  Cassie and Danielle’s favorite hikes in U.S. national parks What it’s like to go on a group trip with NPAD and where they’re headed next.  The Cozy, Creepy Vibes of Haunted Hotels  Don’t miss these moments:  [02:57] How National Park After Dark began. A love for the outdoors and a morbid curiosity.  [11:53] Storied stays in haunted hotels: The Stanley Hotel and the Crescent Hotel.  [17:46] Community stories about the weird and creepy things that happen outside.  [23:09] Danielle and Cassie’s favorite national parks.  “Enjoy the View, But Watch Your Back,” For Cassie and Danielle, it was their shared morbid curiosity and separate passions for wildlife and history that led to the creation of National Park After Dark. From the way large predators get a bad rep to the brave, outdoorspeople who made a lasting impact, this episode will inspire you to do your own morbid research and lean into the darker side of national parks.  Resources Read the full transcript of this episode. Visit the National Park After Dark website or follow them on Instagram.  Explore 7 of the most haunted hotels in America.  Plan a trip to Grand Teton National Park or hike the Skyline Trail in Mount Rainier.   Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Can a scary story inspire you to travel? The hosts of National Park After Dark have been spooking listeners into enjoying the outdoors for years. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, Cassie and Danielle share the stories that continue to haunt them, what it’s like to stay in historic hotels with ghostly reputations, and how these morbid stories created a community of better prepared travelers. 


    What Can Go Wrong In National Parks?

    In this episode, you’ll learn: 

    • How these stories can empower travelers to enjoy the outdoors. 
    • Cassie and Danielle’s favorite hikes in U.S. national parks
    • What it’s like to go on a group trip with NPAD and where they’re headed next. 


    The Cozy, Creepy Vibes of Haunted Hotels 

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [02:57] How National Park After Dark began. A love for the outdoors and a morbid curiosity. 

    [11:53] Storied stays in haunted hotels: The Stanley Hotel and the Crescent Hotel. 

    [17:46] Community stories about the weird and creepy things that happen outside. 

    [23:09] Danielle and Cassie’s favorite national parks. 


    “Enjoy the View, But Watch Your Back,”

    For Cassie and Danielle, it was their shared morbid curiosity and separate passions for wildlife and history that led to the creation of National Park After Dark. From the way large predators get a bad rep to the brave, outdoorspeople who made a lasting impact, this episode will inspire you to do your own morbid research and lean into the darker side of national parks. 


    Resources

    Read the full transcript of this episode.

    Visit the National Park After Dark website or follow them on Instagram. 

    Explore 7 of the most haunted hotels in America. 

    Plan a trip to Grand Teton National Park or hike the Skyline Trail in Mount Rainier.  


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2331 no     From Gullah Geechee to Beach Jams: Peeling Back the Layers of Myrtle Beach https://www.afar.com/podcasts Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is so much more than its gorgeous beach. This week, follow Unpacked by Afar host Aislyn Greene as explores the 14 communities that make up the Grand Strand, a coastal community in South Carolina. She tours Myrtle Beach's food, music, and culture scenes and drives down the Grand Strand to see the gardens and parks that beckon visitors away from the sand. In this episode, you’ll get off-the-beaten path and gain insight to plan your own unique vacation in Myrtle Beach.  What Is Myrtle Beach Known For?  In this episode you’ll learn: More about the Grand Strand: the 60 miles of beach and 14 communities beyond the boardwalk.  Where to get the best food in Myrtle Beach: from Calabash buffets to red velvet waffles and Jamaican cuisine.   The preserved history of Myrtle Beach, the birthplace of shag and America’s first sculpture garden.  On The Storied Side of the Beach Don’t miss these moments:  [08:28] A historic trolley tour of Myrtle Beach legends, from Alabama to Charlie’s Place.  [15:08] Where to eat in Myrtle Beach (the best food is off-the-beaten path). [33:10] The Gullah Geechee Seafood Trail: learning a culture, uplifting a community.  Legends and Lands Beyond the Boardwalk In this episode, Aislyn Greene peels back the layers on Myrtle Beach to help travelers get to the heart of a popular vacation spot.  She chats with locals about the best places to eat, visits America’s first sculpture garden, learns the history of Charlie’s Place, where Black swing musicians jammed, and connects with the Grand Strand’s most foundational communities.  Meet this week’s guests Stuart Butler, chief marketing officer for Visit Myrtle Beach Kathryn Hedgepath, the creator and narrator of the Myrtle Beach History Trolley Tours Retro Myrtle Beach Guy, YouTube travel creator Jamie Daskalis, chef at Johnny D’s Waffles and Benedicts  Andre James, freelance food writer Ann Wilson, interpretive park ranger at Myrtle Beach State Park Paige Kinnery, president and CEO of Brookgreen Gardens Marilyn Hemingway, CEO and founding president of the Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce and the Gullah Geechee Chamber Foundation Resources Read the full transcript of the episode. Book one of Kathryn’s four trolley history tours.  Explore Retro Guy’s Myrtle Beach videos. Dine at Johnny D’s (don’t miss the red velvet waffles).  Visit Myrtle Beach State Park. Tour Brookgreen Gardens. Read the Eater guide to Myrtle Beach.  Explore the Gullah Geechee Seafood Trail. Explore more Afar stories about Myrtle Beach, like this food and drink guide and this guide for travelers with disabilities.  Go to Visit Myrtle Beach, for deals, events and guides during your tip.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 24 Oct 2024 07:01:00 -0000 From Gullah Geechee to Beach Jams: Peeling Back the Layers of Myrtle Beach full 3 27 Afar Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is so much more than its gorgeous beach. This week, follow Unpacked by Afar host Aislyn Greene as explores the 14 communities that make up the Grand Strand, a coastal community in South Carolina. She tours Myrtle Beach's food, music, and culture scenes and drives down the Grand Strand to see the gardens and parks that beckon visitors away from the sand. In this episode, you’ll get off-the-beaten path and gain insight to plan your own unique vacation in Myrtle Beach.  What Is Myrtle Beach Known For?  In this episode you’ll learn: More about the Grand Strand: the 60 miles of beach and 14 communities beyond the boardwalk.  Where to get the best food in Myrtle Beach: from Calabash buffets to red velvet waffles and Jamaican cuisine.   The preserved history of Myrtle Beach, the birthplace of shag and America’s first sculpture garden.  On The Storied Side of the Beach Don’t miss these moments:  [08:28] A historic trolley tour of Myrtle Beach legends, from Alabama to Charlie’s Place.  [15:08] Where to eat in Myrtle Beach (the best food is off-the-beaten path). [33:10] The Gullah Geechee Seafood Trail: learning a culture, uplifting a community.  Legends and Lands Beyond the Boardwalk In this episode, Aislyn Greene peels back the layers on Myrtle Beach to help travelers get to the heart of a popular vacation spot.  She chats with locals about the best places to eat, visits America’s first sculpture garden, learns the history of Charlie’s Place, where Black swing musicians jammed, and connects with the Grand Strand’s most foundational communities.  Meet this week’s guests Stuart Butler, chief marketing officer for Visit Myrtle Beach Kathryn Hedgepath, the creator and narrator of the Myrtle Beach History Trolley Tours Retro Myrtle Beach Guy, YouTube travel creator Jamie Daskalis, chef at Johnny D’s Waffles and Benedicts  Andre James, freelance food writer Ann Wilson, interpretive park ranger at Myrtle Beach State Park Paige Kinnery, president and CEO of Brookgreen Gardens Marilyn Hemingway, CEO and founding president of the Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce and the Gullah Geechee Chamber Foundation Resources Read the full transcript of the episode. Book one of Kathryn’s four trolley history tours.  Explore Retro Guy’s Myrtle Beach videos. Dine at Johnny D’s (don’t miss the red velvet waffles).  Visit Myrtle Beach State Park. Tour Brookgreen Gardens. Read the Eater guide to Myrtle Beach.  Explore the Gullah Geechee Seafood Trail. Explore more Afar stories about Myrtle Beach, like this food and drink guide and this guide for travelers with disabilities.  Go to Visit Myrtle Beach, for deals, events and guides during your tip.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is so much more than its gorgeous beach. This week, follow Unpacked by Afar host Aislyn Greene as explores the 14 communities that make up the Grand Strand, a coastal community in South Carolina.

    She tours Myrtle Beach's food, music, and culture scenes and drives down the Grand Strand to see the gardens and parks that beckon visitors away from the sand. In this episode, you’ll get off-the-beaten path and gain insight to plan your own unique vacation in Myrtle Beach. 

    What Is Myrtle Beach Known For? 

    In this episode you’ll learn:

    • More about the Grand Strand: the 60 miles of beach and 14 communities beyond the boardwalk. 
    • Where to get the best food in Myrtle Beach: from Calabash buffets to red velvet waffles and Jamaican cuisine.  
    • The preserved history of Myrtle Beach, the birthplace of shag and America’s first sculpture garden. 


    On The Storied Side of the Beach

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [08:28] A historic trolley tour of Myrtle Beach legends, from Alabama to Charlie’s Place. 

    [15:08] Where to eat in Myrtle Beach (the best food is off-the-beaten path).

    [33:10] The Gullah Geechee Seafood Trail: learning a culture, uplifting a community. 


    Legends and Lands Beyond the Boardwalk

    In this episode, Aislyn Greene peels back the layers on Myrtle Beach to help travelers get to the heart of a popular vacation spot. 

    She chats with locals about the best places to eat, visits America’s first sculpture garden, learns the history of Charlie’s Place, where Black swing musicians jammed, and connects with the Grand Strand’s most foundational communities. 


    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2412 no     Afar, A Retrospective: The Incredibly True Story of Renting a Friend in Tokyo https://www.afar.com/podcasts This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. A day in the life of a rent-a-friend can run the gamut of fake romance, crying at funerals and a 30-second selfie with a teenager. In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, contributing writer Chris Colin travels to Tokyo to rent a friend.  At first, he expected nothing but kitsch. But as he navigates his newly forged—and reasonably priced—friendships with Miyabi,Yumi and Yusuke, what he learns changes the way he views Japan and his friendships back at home.  A Day In the Life of A Rent-A-Friend In this episode you’ll discover:  The values and issues of Japanese society that created Client Partners, a rent-a-friend company.  The various reasons why Japanese locals are renting friends.   How you can rent a friend in Japan during your next solo trip. Kodoku: The Lonely Gap  Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [06:11] Real life fake engagements and other rent-a-friend scenarios.   [10:47] Hikikomori and a nation’s spiritual health: A conversation with Client Partners’ CEO.  [16:22] Clarity, okonomiyaki and a genuine connection with a professional friend.  A Cultural Phenomenon or A Cure for Loneliness?  When writer Chris Colin first rented a friend in Tokyo, he was expecting something kitsch and wacky, like a cuddle or owl cafe. Instead, he found genuine connection and clarity about the elusiveness of friendship in his own life.  What are the issues in society that create a commercial market for friendship and what does this reveal about the connections we are able to create? Resources: Read Chris' original story and check out his other work. Explore Afar's travel guide to Tokyo. Learn more about Client Partners, the rent-a-friend company that Chris visited. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 22 Oct 2024 07:01:00 -0000 Afar, A Retrospective: The Incredibly True Story of Renting a Friend in Tokyo bonus Afar This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. A day in the life of a rent-a-friend can run the gamut of fake romance, crying at funerals and a 30-second selfie with a teenager. In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, contributing writer Chris Colin travels to Tokyo to rent a friend.  At first, he expected nothing but kitsch. But as he navigates his newly forged—and reasonably priced—friendships with Miyabi,Yumi and Yusuke, what he learns changes the way he views Japan and his friendships back at home.  A Day In the Life of A Rent-A-Friend In this episode you’ll discover:  The values and issues of Japanese society that created Client Partners, a rent-a-friend company.  The various reasons why Japanese locals are renting friends.   How you can rent a friend in Japan during your next solo trip. Kodoku: The Lonely Gap  Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [06:11] Real life fake engagements and other rent-a-friend scenarios.   [10:47] Hikikomori and a nation’s spiritual health: A conversation with Client Partners’ CEO.  [16:22] Clarity, okonomiyaki and a genuine connection with a professional friend.  A Cultural Phenomenon or A Cure for Loneliness?  When writer Chris Colin first rented a friend in Tokyo, he was expecting something kitsch and wacky, like a cuddle or owl cafe. Instead, he found genuine connection and clarity about the elusiveness of friendship in his own life.  What are the issues in society that create a commercial market for friendship and what does this reveal about the connections we are able to create? Resources: Read Chris' original story and check out his other work. Explore Afar's travel guide to Tokyo. Learn more about Client Partners, the rent-a-friend company that Chris visited. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen.


    A day in the life of a rent-a-friend can run the gamut of fake romance, crying at funerals and a 30-second selfie with a teenager. In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, contributing writer Chris Colin travels to Tokyo to rent a friend. 


    At first, he expected nothing but kitsch. But as he navigates his newly forged—and reasonably priced—friendships with Miyabi,Yumi and Yusuke, what he learns changes the way he views Japan and his friendships back at home. 


    A Day In the Life of A Rent-A-Friend

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • The values and issues of Japanese society that created Client Partners, a rent-a-friend company. 
    • The various reasons why Japanese locals are renting friends.  
    • How you can rent a friend in Japan during your next solo trip.


    Kodoku: The Lonely Gap 

    Don’t miss these memorable moments: 

    [06:11] Real life fake engagements and other rent-a-friend scenarios.  

    [10:47] Hikikomori and a nation’s spiritual health: A conversation with Client Partners’ CEO. 

    [16:22] Clarity, okonomiyaki and a genuine connection with a professional friend. 


    A Cultural Phenomenon or A Cure for Loneliness? 

    When writer Chris Colin first rented a friend in Tokyo, he was expecting something kitsch and wacky, like a cuddle or owl cafe. Instead, he found genuine connection and clarity about the elusiveness of friendship in his own life. 

    What are the issues in society that create a commercial market for friendship and what does this reveal about the connections we are able to create?


    Resources:

    Read Chris' original story and check out his other work.

    Explore Afar's travel guide to Tokyo.

    Learn more about Client Partners, the rent-a-friend company that Chris visited.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1596 no     I Have Insomnia—So I Tried Sleep Tourism to See if It Could Help https://www.afar.com/podcasts Would you travel for a better night’s sleep? Sleep packages at luxury hotels ranging from menus with sleep-promoting ingredients to hypnotherapy sessions promise to promote better sleep, both during and after your stay.  In this episode of Unpacked, contributing writer Chris Colin travels to four different “sleep hotels” to find a cure for his own insomnia and discover what our sleep issues–and solutions–reveal about our collective psyche.  Does Sleep Tourism Work? In this episode you’ll learn:  Handy sleep pointers for the traveler.  The unique amenities that “sleep hotels,”offer: from reiki to CBD and sleep masks.  What people do when they can’t sleep and how our sleep solutions reflect society.  A Quest for Better Rest  Don’t miss these moments:  [10:51] “Go to sleep, dream”: Hypnotherapy at Carmel Valley Ranch [18:20] What’s a hyperbaric chamber? The unique sleep offerings at Stanly Ranch.  [24:11] Sleep Doctor, Michael Breus, teams up with The Post Ranch Inn.  Insomniacs and Sleep Doctors Tell All  In this episode, you’ll hear from yoga instructors, meditation guides, sleep doctors, hypnotherapists and a handful of insomniacs to get to the bottom of the rise in sleep travel.  Chris Colin sets out on a quest to discover if sleep tourism actually provides better rest and what our lack of sleep (and our attempted solutions) say about society as a whole.  Resources:  Read the full transcript of the episode.  Explore Chris’s website.  Check out the sleep programs at the hotels Chris mentions in the episode: the Kimpton Alton, Carmel Valley Ranch, Stanly Ranch, and the Post Ranch Inn.  Read Chris’s stories for afar.com and explore his website.  Listen to Chris’s podcast Longer Tables With José Andrés.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 17 Oct 2024 07:01:00 -0000 I Have Insomnia—So I Tried Sleep Tourism to See if It Could Help full 3 26 Afar Would you travel for a better night’s sleep? Sleep packages at luxury hotels ranging from menus with sleep-promoting ingredients to hypnotherapy sessions promise to promote better sleep, both during and after your stay.  In this episode of Unpacked, contributing writer Chris Colin travels to four different “sleep hotels” to find a cure for his own insomnia and discover what our sleep issues–and solutions–reveal about our collective psyche.  Does Sleep Tourism Work? In this episode you’ll learn:  Handy sleep pointers for the traveler.  The unique amenities that “sleep hotels,”offer: from reiki to CBD and sleep masks.  What people do when they can’t sleep and how our sleep solutions reflect society.  A Quest for Better Rest  Don’t miss these moments:  [10:51] “Go to sleep, dream”: Hypnotherapy at Carmel Valley Ranch [18:20] What’s a hyperbaric chamber? The unique sleep offerings at Stanly Ranch.  [24:11] Sleep Doctor, Michael Breus, teams up with The Post Ranch Inn.  Insomniacs and Sleep Doctors Tell All  In this episode, you’ll hear from yoga instructors, meditation guides, sleep doctors, hypnotherapists and a handful of insomniacs to get to the bottom of the rise in sleep travel.  Chris Colin sets out on a quest to discover if sleep tourism actually provides better rest and what our lack of sleep (and our attempted solutions) say about society as a whole.  Resources:  Read the full transcript of the episode.  Explore Chris’s website.  Check out the sleep programs at the hotels Chris mentions in the episode: the Kimpton Alton, Carmel Valley Ranch, Stanly Ranch, and the Post Ranch Inn.  Read Chris’s stories for afar.com and explore his website.  Listen to Chris’s podcast Longer Tables With José Andrés.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Would you travel for a better night’s sleep? Sleep packages at luxury hotels ranging from menus with sleep-promoting ingredients to hypnotherapy sessions promise to promote better sleep, both during and after your stay. 

    In this episode of Unpacked, contributing writer Chris Colin travels to four different “sleep hotels” to find a cure for his own insomnia and discover what our sleep issues–and solutions–reveal about our collective psyche. 


    Does Sleep Tourism Work?

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • Handy sleep pointers for the traveler. 
    • The unique amenities that “sleep hotels,”offer: from reiki to CBD and sleep masks. 
    • What people do when they can’t sleep and how our sleep solutions reflect society. 



    A Quest for Better Rest 

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [10:51] “Go to sleep, dream”: Hypnotherapy at Carmel Valley Ranch

    [18:20] What’s a hyperbaric chamber? The unique sleep offerings at Stanly Ranch. 

    [24:11] Sleep Doctor, Michael Breus, teams up with The Post Ranch Inn. 


    Insomniacs and Sleep Doctors Tell All 

    In this episode, you’ll hear from yoga instructors, meditation guides, sleep doctors, hypnotherapists and a handful of insomniacs to get to the bottom of the rise in sleep travel. 

    Chris Colin sets out on a quest to discover if sleep tourism actually provides better rest and what our lack of sleep (and our attempted solutions) say about society as a whole. 


    Resources: 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2415 no     A Local’s View of Paris: Off the Beaten Path in a Changing City https://www.afar.com/podcasts Sidestep a stereotypical trip to Paris with cultural insights from journalist and long-time Paris resident Lindsey Tramuta. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, she shares ways that Paris has changed over the last 20 years and tips for travelers to key into those changes when they travel. From etiquette to fashion, cuisine to favorite neighborhoods—she helps you experience Paris off the beaten path.  Paris Like You Haven’t Seen It Before In this episode, you’ll learn:  How Paris is blossoming into a global leader for urban transformation.  How the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics affected French locals.  Insider tips and must-knows before you travel to Paris.  French Tip: Always say “Bonjour” Don’t miss these moments:  [04:32] Key insights from 20 years of change in Paris [18:34] French etiquette and other things to know before you go.  [ 27:04 ] Lindsey’s favorite neighborhood spots. An Insider’s Guide To Paris Your local guide is Lindsey Tramuta, a journalist who has been living and reporting about life in Paris for two decades. In her work, she explores the people and ideas shaping Paris, and in today’s episode she lets us in on 20 years of change.  From what it’s been like in The City of Light since the Olympics and Paralympics wrapped, to the city’s evolving food scene, get local, these are the need-to-know tips for your next Paris trip.   Resources Read the transcript of this episode.  Check out Lindsey Tramuta’s books: The New Paris and The New Parisienne Follow The New Paris podcast Explore more Paris content from Afar, including a travel guide, local tips for a 4-day trip, and where to go to avoid crowds.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 10 Oct 2024 07:01:00 -0000 A Local’s View of Paris: Off the Beaten Path in a Changing City full 3 25 Afar Sidestep a stereotypical trip to Paris with cultural insights from journalist and long-time Paris resident Lindsey Tramuta. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, she shares ways that Paris has changed over the last 20 years and tips for travelers to key into those changes when they travel. From etiquette to fashion, cuisine to favorite neighborhoods—she helps you experience Paris off the beaten path.  Paris Like You Haven’t Seen It Before In this episode, you’ll learn:  How Paris is blossoming into a global leader for urban transformation.  How the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics affected French locals.  Insider tips and must-knows before you travel to Paris.  French Tip: Always say “Bonjour” Don’t miss these moments:  [04:32] Key insights from 20 years of change in Paris [18:34] French etiquette and other things to know before you go.  [ 27:04 ] Lindsey’s favorite neighborhood spots. An Insider’s Guide To Paris Your local guide is Lindsey Tramuta, a journalist who has been living and reporting about life in Paris for two decades. In her work, she explores the people and ideas shaping Paris, and in today’s episode she lets us in on 20 years of change.  From what it’s been like in The City of Light since the Olympics and Paralympics wrapped, to the city’s evolving food scene, get local, these are the need-to-know tips for your next Paris trip.   Resources Read the transcript of this episode.  Check out Lindsey Tramuta’s books: The New Paris and The New Parisienne Follow The New Paris podcast Explore more Paris content from Afar, including a travel guide, local tips for a 4-day trip, and where to go to avoid crowds.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.  And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sidestep a stereotypical trip to Paris with cultural insights from journalist and long-time Paris resident Lindsey Tramuta. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, she shares ways that Paris has changed over the last 20 years and tips for travelers to key into those changes when they travel.

    From etiquette to fashion, cuisine to favorite neighborhoods—she helps you experience Paris off the beaten path. 

    Paris Like You Haven’t Seen It Before

    In this episode, you’ll learn: 

    • How Paris is blossoming into a global leader for urban transformation. 
    • How the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics affected French locals. 
    • Insider tips and must-knows before you travel to Paris. 


    French Tip: Always say “Bonjour”

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    [04:32] Key insights from 20 years of change in Paris

    [18:34] French etiquette and other things to know before you go. 

    [ 27:04 ] Lindsey’s favorite neighborhood spots.

    An Insider’s Guide To Paris

    Your local guide is Lindsey Tramuta, a journalist who has been living and reporting about life in Paris for two decades. In her work, she explores the people and ideas shaping Paris, and in today’s episode she lets us in on 20 years of change. 

    From what it’s been like in The City of Light since the Olympics and Paralympics wrapped, to the city’s evolving food scene, get local, these are the need-to-know tips for your next Paris trip.  

    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. 

    And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2861 no     Afar, A Retrospective: Why Did I Bring a Teenager to Venice? https://www.afar.com/podcasts This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. Hoping to recreate the same magical trip she took as a teen, author Emma John takes her friend’s 13-year-old daughter to Venice. But instead of awe, she’s filled with anxiety as she flies through a packed itinerary and struggles to impress her teenage companion. Will a reluctant teenager give into the wonders of the Floating City? A Gondolier Wake Up Call In this episode, discover: Ideas for a week-long trip to Venice, beyond hitting tourist hot spots.  How to (and how not to) dress for a visit to St. Mark’s Basilica.  What one traveler did to help a teenager fall in love with Venice.  “What Are We Going to Do Next?” Don’t miss these transformative travel moments:  [02:13] A midnight chase in the streets of Venice.  [05:38] Glass blowing at Murano, making Venetian masks and an otherwise packed itinerary.  [07:35] The unexpected views that led to a breakthrough.  Single in St. Mark’s Square When Emma John was a teen, her mom’s single friend took her on a life-changing trip to Venice. An Afar contributing writer, and a traveler who is up for anything, Emma has written about country bluegrass, cricket and her most recent book is a memoir about singleness: Self-Contained: Scenes From a Single Life.  In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, she rediscovers the magic of Venice and learns a thing or two about travel itineraries and connections.  Resources • Read Emma’s original story.  • Explore her other work.    • Check out Afar’s Venice travel guide.            Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 08 Oct 2024 07:01:00 -0000 Afar, A Retrospective: Why Did I Bring a Teenager to Venice? bonus Afar This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. Hoping to recreate the same magical trip she took as a teen, author Emma John takes her friend’s 13-year-old daughter to Venice. But instead of awe, she’s filled with anxiety as she flies through a packed itinerary and struggles to impress her teenage companion. Will a reluctant teenager give into the wonders of the Floating City? A Gondolier Wake Up Call In this episode, discover: Ideas for a week-long trip to Venice, beyond hitting tourist hot spots.  How to (and how not to) dress for a visit to St. Mark’s Basilica.  What one traveler did to help a teenager fall in love with Venice.  “What Are We Going to Do Next?” Don’t miss these transformative travel moments:  [02:13] A midnight chase in the streets of Venice.  [05:38] Glass blowing at Murano, making Venetian masks and an otherwise packed itinerary.  [07:35] The unexpected views that led to a breakthrough.  Single in St. Mark’s Square When Emma John was a teen, her mom’s single friend took her on a life-changing trip to Venice. An Afar contributing writer, and a traveler who is up for anything, Emma has written about country bluegrass, cricket and her most recent book is a memoir about singleness: Self-Contained: Scenes From a Single Life.  In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, she rediscovers the magic of Venice and learns a thing or two about travel itineraries and connections.  Resources • Read Emma’s original story.  • Explore her other work.    • Check out Afar’s Venice travel guide.            Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen.


    Hoping to recreate the same magical trip she took as a teen, author Emma John takes her friend’s 13-year-old daughter to Venice. But instead of awe, she’s filled with anxiety as she flies through a packed itinerary and struggles to impress her teenage companion. Will a reluctant teenager give into the wonders of the Floating City?


    A Gondolier Wake Up Call

    In this episode, discover:

    • Ideas for a week-long trip to Venice, beyond hitting tourist hot spots. 
    • How to (and how not to) dress for a visit to St. Mark’s Basilica. 
    • What one traveler did to help a teenager fall in love with Venice. 


    “What Are We Going to Do Next?”

    Don’t miss these transformative travel moments: 

    [02:13] A midnight chase in the streets of Venice. 

    [05:38] Glass blowing at Murano, making Venetian masks and an otherwise packed itinerary. 

    [07:35] The unexpected views that led to a breakthrough. 


    Single in St. Mark’s Square

    When Emma John was a teen, her mom’s single friend took her on a life-changing trip to Venice. An Afar contributing writer, and a traveler who is up for anything, Emma has written about country bluegrass, cricket and her most recent book is a memoir about singleness: Self-Contained: Scenes From a Single Life. 


    In this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, she rediscovers the magic of Venice and learns a thing or two about travel itineraries and connections. 


    Resources

    • Read Emma’s original story. 

    • Explore her other work.   

    • Check out Afar’s Venice travel guide.  

            

    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1063 no     Holiday Travel Tips for Stress-Free Trips: Introducing NerdWallet’s "Smart Money" Podcast https://link.chtbl.com/1tURflyR How do you manage stress when you’re traveling during the holidays? And is it better to book with points or cash during some of the busiest travel days of the year? Believe it or not, it’s almost time to book your holiday travel, and our friends at NerdWallet have some tips for traveling stress-free. In this special episode of NerdWallet’s Smart Money podcast, their objective finance journalists answer real-world questions to help you make smarter decisions with your money and help your finances thrive. Listen to Smart Money by NerdWallet wherever you get your podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/1tURflyR Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 07 Oct 2024 07:01:00 -0000 Holiday Travel Tips for Stress-Free Trips: Introducing NerdWallet’s "Smart Money" Podcast bonus Afar How do you manage stress when you’re traveling during the holidays? And is it better to book with points or cash during some of the busiest travel days of the year? Believe it or not, it’s almost time to book your holiday travel, and our friends at NerdWallet have some tips for traveling stress-free. In this special episode of NerdWallet’s Smart Money podcast, their objective finance journalists answer real-world questions to help you make smarter decisions with your money and help your finances thrive. Listen to Smart Money by NerdWallet wherever you get your podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/1tURflyR Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How do you manage stress when you’re traveling during the holidays? And is it better to book with points or cash during some of the busiest travel days of the year? Believe it or not, it’s almost time to book your holiday travel, and our friends at NerdWallet have some tips for traveling stress-free. In this special episode of NerdWallet’s Smart Money podcast, their objective finance journalists answer real-world questions to help you make smarter decisions with your money and help your finances thrive.

    Listen to Smart Money by NerdWallet wherever you get your podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/1tURflyR


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1480 no     This Wilderness Lodge Will Take You to the Center of Life in an Ancient Forest https://www.afar.com/podcasts Explore an ancient, biodiverse rainforest by land, sea and air at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge in British Columbia. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, follow senior deputy editor, Jennifer Flowers, as she hikes through new and old forests in Ursus Valley, tastes bull kelp on a boat ride in Clayoquot Sound and helicopters to a mountain peak.  She learns why “untouched” isn’t an accurate description for a remote rainforest like this one on Vancouver Island. From the histories and sustainable work of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth First Nations people who have stewarded the land for centuries to the flora and fauna that work together to thrive, this weekend trip is a cold plunge into a harmonious ecosystem.  Inside a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve In this episode you’ll learn:  What makes a forest old? A primer on CMTs (culturally modified trees) and signs of old growth.  Who the Nuu-Chah-Nulth First Nations people are and how they have sustained and protected the ancient forest for centuries.  How the coastal biome of Clayoquot Sound contributes to life on land.  Nature Encounters at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge  Don’t miss these moments:  [07:40] An expedition into an old forest valley: baconlike bark and CMTs:  [11:02] Borrowing banana slugs, and the First Nations groups who steward the forest.   [15:48] Coastal encounters at Clayoquot Sound: black bears, bull kelp and more.  A Plunge, a Hike and a Helicopter Ride “If These Walls Could Talk” is an Afar series that explores the stories—and secrets—hotels can tell us about the places we visit. One of Afar’s Hotels We Love, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge promises to immerse guests in the biodiverse ecosystem of an ancient rainforest.  In this episode, Jennifer Flowers takes us along as she hikes through old and new forests in Bedwell River Valley and Ursus Valley, tastes bull kelp on a boat in Clayoquot Sound and encounters the traditions of the Ahousaht people who have sustained the forest for millennia.  Resources:  Read the full transcript of the episode.  Book a weekend at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge.  Explore our Canadian Hotels We Love list.  Follow Jenn on Instagram to see more great hotel content.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 03 Oct 2024 07:01:00 -0000 This Wilderness Lodge Will Take You to the Center of Life in an Ancient Forest full 3 24 Afar Explore an ancient, biodiverse rainforest by land, sea and air at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge in British Columbia. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, follow senior deputy editor, Jennifer Flowers, as she hikes through new and old forests in Ursus Valley, tastes bull kelp on a boat ride in Clayoquot Sound and helicopters to a mountain peak.  She learns why “untouched” isn’t an accurate description for a remote rainforest like this one on Vancouver Island. From the histories and sustainable work of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth First Nations people who have stewarded the land for centuries to the flora and fauna that work together to thrive, this weekend trip is a cold plunge into a harmonious ecosystem.  Inside a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve In this episode you’ll learn:  What makes a forest old? A primer on CMTs (culturally modified trees) and signs of old growth.  Who the Nuu-Chah-Nulth First Nations people are and how they have sustained and protected the ancient forest for centuries.  How the coastal biome of Clayoquot Sound contributes to life on land.  Nature Encounters at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge  Don’t miss these moments:  [07:40] An expedition into an old forest valley: baconlike bark and CMTs:  [11:02] Borrowing banana slugs, and the First Nations groups who steward the forest.   [15:48] Coastal encounters at Clayoquot Sound: black bears, bull kelp and more.  A Plunge, a Hike and a Helicopter Ride “If These Walls Could Talk” is an Afar series that explores the stories—and secrets—hotels can tell us about the places we visit. One of Afar’s Hotels We Love, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge promises to immerse guests in the biodiverse ecosystem of an ancient rainforest.  In this episode, Jennifer Flowers takes us along as she hikes through old and new forests in Bedwell River Valley and Ursus Valley, tastes bull kelp on a boat in Clayoquot Sound and encounters the traditions of the Ahousaht people who have sustained the forest for millennia.  Resources:  Read the full transcript of the episode.  Book a weekend at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge.  Explore our Canadian Hotels We Love list.  Follow Jenn on Instagram to see more great hotel content.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Explore an ancient, biodiverse rainforest by land, sea and air at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge in British Columbia. In this episode of Unpacked by Afar, follow senior deputy editor, Jennifer Flowers, as she hikes through new and old forests in Ursus Valley, tastes bull kelp on a boat ride in Clayoquot Sound and helicopters to a mountain peak. 

    She learns why “untouched” isn’t an accurate description for a remote rainforest like this one on Vancouver Island. From the histories and sustainable work of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth First Nations people who have stewarded the land for centuries to the flora and fauna that work together to thrive, this weekend trip is a cold plunge into a harmonious ecosystem. 

    Inside a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

    In this episode you’ll learn: 

    • What makes a forest old? A primer on CMTs (culturally modified trees) and signs of old growth. 
    • Who the Nuu-Chah-Nulth First Nations people are and how they have sustained and protected the ancient forest for centuries. 
    • How the coastal biome of Clayoquot Sound contributes to life on land. 


    Nature Encounters at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge 

    Don’t miss these moments: 

    • [07:40] An expedition into an old forest valley: baconlike bark and CMTs: 
    • [11:02] Borrowing banana slugs, and the First Nations groups who steward the forest.  
    • [15:48] Coastal encounters at Clayoquot Sound: black bears, bull kelp and more. 


    A Plunge, a Hike and a Helicopter Ride

    “If These Walls Could Talk” is an Afar series that explores the stories—and secrets—hotels can tell us about the places we visit. One of Afar’s Hotels We Love, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge promises to immerse guests in the biodiverse ecosystem of an ancient rainforest. 

    In this episode, Jennifer Flowers takes us along as she hikes through old and new forests in Bedwell River Valley and Ursus Valley, tastes bull kelp on a boat in Clayoquot Sound and encounters the traditions of the Ahousaht people who have sustained the forest for millennia. 

    Resources: 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode.

    And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2131 no     These Three Women Travel Solo With Confidence (Now You Can Too). https://www.afar.com/podcasts Embrace the benefits of solo travel with seasoned tips to conquer fears, make the most of any trip and respond confidently to concerned loved ones. From the best places to visit solo to how to make plans for unexpected hiccups— in this episode of Unpacked by Afar, audio engineer and solo traveler Nicolle Gatleland chats with Pamela Holt, the host of TV Show, Me, Myself and the World: The Art of Solo Travel, and Bonderman Travel Fellowship advisor, Brook Kelly, to give you the tools to safely enjoy traveling alone.  Going Solo, But Not Alone. In this episode, you’ll learn:  How to conquer common fears and feel safe while traveling alone.  Tools to embrace the benefits of a solo trip and connect with others.  Tips to ease the concerns of loved ones and translate your experiences.  When Women Embrace Solo Travel.  Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [02:13] 80 countries by age 50. The origins of a solo travel evangelist.  [12:06] French fries, new friends and avoiding arrest in Russia.  [40:32] Overcoming self (and parental) doubts about the safety of solo travel.  Feeling Nervous About Traveling Solo?  At age 23, Afar audio engineer, Nikki Galteland, traveled solo for 8 months with The Bonderman Travel Fellowship. Her advisor, Brook Kelly, continues to help hundreds take safe and meaningful solo trips. She shares how to prepare for the unexpected, ease the concerns of loved ones and get the most of a solo trip.  In this episode, Nikki also interviews Pamela Holt, the host of Me, Myself and the World: The Art of Solo Travel, who vowed to visit 80 countries by the time she was 50 (mostly solo). She shares anecdotes and advice to help you overcome barriers, connect with others and embrace the joy of solo travel.  Resources Read the transcript of this episode.  Explore more Afar content for solo travelers—from the best places to go solo to how to make friends on a solo trip.  Need help getting travel insurance? We got you.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 26 Sep 2024 07:01:00 -0000 These Three Women Travel Solo With Confidence (Now You Can Too). full 3 25 Afar Embrace the benefits of solo travel with seasoned tips to conquer fears, make the most of any trip and respond confidently to concerned loved ones. From the best places to visit solo to how to make plans for unexpected hiccups— in this episode of Unpacked by Afar, audio engineer and solo traveler Nicolle Gatleland chats with Pamela Holt, the host of TV Show, Me, Myself and the World: The Art of Solo Travel, and Bonderman Travel Fellowship advisor, Brook Kelly, to give you the tools to safely enjoy traveling alone.  Going Solo, But Not Alone. In this episode, you’ll learn:  How to conquer common fears and feel safe while traveling alone.  Tools to embrace the benefits of a solo trip and connect with others.  Tips to ease the concerns of loved ones and translate your experiences.  When Women Embrace Solo Travel.  Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [02:13] 80 countries by age 50. The origins of a solo travel evangelist.  [12:06] French fries, new friends and avoiding arrest in Russia.  [40:32] Overcoming self (and parental) doubts about the safety of solo travel.  Feeling Nervous About Traveling Solo?  At age 23, Afar audio engineer, Nikki Galteland, traveled solo for 8 months with The Bonderman Travel Fellowship. Her advisor, Brook Kelly, continues to help hundreds take safe and meaningful solo trips. She shares how to prepare for the unexpected, ease the concerns of loved ones and get the most of a solo trip.  In this episode, Nikki also interviews Pamela Holt, the host of Me, Myself and the World: The Art of Solo Travel, who vowed to visit 80 countries by the time she was 50 (mostly solo). She shares anecdotes and advice to help you overcome barriers, connect with others and embrace the joy of solo travel.  Resources Read the transcript of this episode.  Explore more Afar content for solo travelers—from the best places to go solo to how to make friends on a solo trip.  Need help getting travel insurance? We got you.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Embrace the benefits of solo travel with seasoned tips to conquer fears, make the most of any trip and respond confidently to concerned loved ones. From the best places to visit solo to how to make plans for unexpected hiccups— in this episode of Unpacked by Afar, audio engineer and solo traveler Nicolle Gatleland chats with Pamela Holt, the host of TV Show, Me, Myself and the World: The Art of Solo Travel, and Bonderman Travel Fellowship advisor, Brook Kelly, to give you the tools to safely enjoy traveling alone. 

    Going Solo, But Not Alone.

    In this episode, you’ll learn: 

    • How to conquer common fears and feel safe while traveling alone. 
    • Tools to embrace the benefits of a solo trip and connect with others. 
    • Tips to ease the concerns of loved ones and translate your experiences. 


    When Women Embrace Solo Travel. 

    Don’t miss these memorable moments: 

    [02:13] 80 countries by age 50. The origins of a solo travel evangelist. 

    [12:06] French fries, new friends and avoiding arrest in Russia. 

    [40:32] Overcoming self (and parental) doubts about the safety of solo travel. 


    Feeling Nervous About Traveling Solo? 

    At age 23, Afar audio engineer, Nikki Galteland, traveled solo for 8 months with The Bonderman Travel Fellowship. Her advisor, Brook Kelly, continues to help hundreds take safe and meaningful solo trips. She shares how to prepare for the unexpected, ease the concerns of loved ones and get the most of a solo trip. 


    In this episode, Nikki also interviews Pamela Holt, the host of Me, Myself and the World: The Art of Solo Travel, who vowed to visit 80 countries by the time she was 50 (mostly solo). She shares anecdotes and advice to help you overcome barriers, connect with others and embrace the joy of solo travel. 


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3101 no     Afar, a Retrospective: Comedian Negin Farsad Makes Kansas City Laugh—And A Little Uncomfortable https://www.afar.com/podcasts This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. We sent Fake the Nation host and comedian, Negin Farsad, on a last-minute trip to America’s Heartland, aka Kansas City, Missouri. The author of How To Make White People Laugh, is six months pregnant and doing stand up in a comedy club that hasn’t had a woman on stage in five weeks.  From waddling on the “wrong side of town” to sharing her experiences as an Iranian-American Muslim in an interracial relationship—she moves past the pleasantries of ribs and fountains and glimpses the heart of Kansas City.  They Stared At Me While I Waddled.  In this episode, discover: How a New Yorker walks her way through Kansas City sights.  A comedy set that parallels a tourist’s experience of the city.  The ways race and segregation in Kansas mirror the rest of the country . “Dirty, Hungry Comedy Eyes.” Don’t miss these transformative travel moments:  [3:45] A traveler’s comedy set: Six months’ pregnant and sightseeing.  [8:00] The “wrong side of town” and leaning into the uncomfortable.  [11:22] Kansas City, united by “sincere booty shaking.”  Resources • Read Negin's original story. • Read this Afar story by Negin about a magic mushroom retreat • Explore Negin's other work. • Follow Negin on X. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 24 Sep 2024 16:32:00 -0000 Comedian Negin Farsad Makes Kansas City Laugh—And A Little Uncomfortable bonus Afar This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. We sent Fake the Nation host and comedian, Negin Farsad, on a last-minute trip to America’s Heartland, aka Kansas City, Missouri. The author of How To Make White People Laugh, is six months pregnant and doing stand up in a comedy club that hasn’t had a woman on stage in five weeks.  From waddling on the “wrong side of town” to sharing her experiences as an Iranian-American Muslim in an interracial relationship—she moves past the pleasantries of ribs and fountains and glimpses the heart of Kansas City.  They Stared At Me While I Waddled.  In this episode, discover: How a New Yorker walks her way through Kansas City sights.  A comedy set that parallels a tourist’s experience of the city.  The ways race and segregation in Kansas mirror the rest of the country . “Dirty, Hungry Comedy Eyes.” Don’t miss these transformative travel moments:  [3:45] A traveler’s comedy set: Six months’ pregnant and sightseeing.  [8:00] The “wrong side of town” and leaning into the uncomfortable.  [11:22] Kansas City, united by “sincere booty shaking.”  Resources • Read Negin's original story. • Read this Afar story by Negin about a magic mushroom retreat • Explore Negin's other work. • Follow Negin on X. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen.

    We sent Fake the Nation host and comedian, Negin Farsad, on a last-minute trip to America’s Heartland, aka Kansas City, Missouri. The author of How To Make White People Laugh, is six months pregnant and doing stand up in a comedy club that hasn’t had a woman on stage in five weeks. 

    From waddling on the “wrong side of town” to sharing her experiences as an Iranian-American Muslim in an interracial relationship—she moves past the pleasantries of ribs and fountains and glimpses the heart of Kansas City. 


    They Stared At Me While I Waddled. 

    In this episode, discover:

    • How a New Yorker walks her way through Kansas City sights. 
    • A comedy set that parallels a tourist’s experience of the city. 
    • The ways race and segregation in Kansas mirror the rest of the country .


    “Dirty, Hungry Comedy Eyes.”

    Don’t miss these transformative travel moments: 

    [3:45] A traveler’s comedy set: Six months’ pregnant and sightseeing. 

    [8:00] The “wrong side of town” and leaning into the uncomfortable. 

    [11:22] Kansas City, united by “sincere booty shaking.” 


    Resources

    • Read Negin's original story.

    • Read this Afar story by Negin about a magic mushroom retreat

    • Explore Negin's other work.

    • Follow Negin on X.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1117 no     I’m a Polyglot—These Are the Secrets to Learning New Languages What if they don’t understand me, speak too fast, or worse—ignore my attempt and revert to English? Polyglot and Babbel instructor Noël Wolf, is well-versed in overcoming barriers and connecting with locals through language learning. From how learning 10 phrases led to being treated like family, to learning Spanish by playing volleyball— she shares the secrets to having deeper travel experiences through language learning.  Learn a Language, Unlock a Culture. In this episode, you’ll learn:  Responses for when you’re in a sticky language misunderstanding.  The ways that language learning can enrich your travels—and your character.  How to set realistic goals and take steps toward fluency.  Language: A Cultural Currency of Appreciation. Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [2:36] Becoming your full self and how culture shapes you.   [5:20] Don’t sweat the small stuff: Tips for speaking with confidence.  [16:27] The many benefits of embracing a new language.  [21:46] Love Is Blind and other avenues to success.  Tell Me: How Do People Really Speak? Noel is a German polyglot — she speaks English, French, Spanish and Italian fluently and is currently learning Dutch and Brazilian Portuguese. Follow her tips to ditch the flashcards and make real-life connections with even the smallest amount of language knowledge.  In this episode, you’ll learn how to have more authentic travel experiences through language learning. Whether your goal is to order gelato or gain a better understanding of culture, follow these tips to set attainable goals and speak with confidence as soon as you land.  Resources Learn from Noël at Babbel. *Afar listeners can use code 1432288 to get 55 percent off a lifetime subscription.* Read the transcript of this episode.  Explore more Afar content for language learners:  The Easiest Languages for English Speakers to Learn. Why We Shouldn’t Always Use Translation Apps When We Travel.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 19 Sep 2024 07:01:00 -0000 I’m a Polyglot—These Are the Secrets to Learning New Languages full 3 22 Afar What if they don’t understand me, speak too fast, or worse—ignore my attempt and revert to English? Polyglot and Babbel instructor Noël Wolf, is well-versed in overcoming barriers and connecting with locals through language learning. From how learning 10 phrases led to being treated like family, to learning Spanish by playing volleyball— she shares the secrets to having deeper travel experiences through language learning.  Learn a Language, Unlock a Culture. In this episode, you’ll learn:  Responses for when you’re in a sticky language misunderstanding.  The ways that language learning can enrich your travels—and your character.  How to set realistic goals and take steps toward fluency.  Language: A Cultural Currency of Appreciation. Don’t miss these memorable moments:  [2:36] Becoming your full self and how culture shapes you.   [5:20] Don’t sweat the small stuff: Tips for speaking with confidence.  [16:27] The many benefits of embracing a new language.  [21:46] Love Is Blind and other avenues to success.  Tell Me: How Do People Really Speak? Noel is a German polyglot — she speaks English, French, Spanish and Italian fluently and is currently learning Dutch and Brazilian Portuguese. Follow her tips to ditch the flashcards and make real-life connections with even the smallest amount of language knowledge.  In this episode, you’ll learn how to have more authentic travel experiences through language learning. Whether your goal is to order gelato or gain a better understanding of culture, follow these tips to set attainable goals and speak with confidence as soon as you land.  Resources Learn from Noël at Babbel. *Afar listeners can use code 1432288 to get 55 percent off a lifetime subscription.* Read the transcript of this episode.  Explore more Afar content for language learners:  The Easiest Languages for English Speakers to Learn. Why We Shouldn’t Always Use Translation Apps When We Travel.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What if they don’t understand me, speak too fast, or worse—ignore my attempt and revert to English? Polyglot and Babbel instructor Noël Wolf, is well-versed in overcoming barriers and connecting with locals through language learning. From how learning 10 phrases led to being treated like family, to learning Spanish by playing volleyball— she shares the secrets to having deeper travel experiences through language learning. 


    Learn a Language, Unlock a Culture.

    In this episode, you’ll learn: 

    • Responses for when you’re in a sticky language misunderstanding. 
    • The ways that language learning can enrich your travels—and your character. 
    • How to set realistic goals and take steps toward fluency. 


    Language: A Cultural Currency of Appreciation.

    Don’t miss these memorable moments: 

    [2:36] Becoming your full self and how culture shapes you.  

    [5:20] Don’t sweat the small stuff: Tips for speaking with confidence. 

    [16:27] The many benefits of embracing a new language. 

    [21:46] Love Is Blind and other avenues to success. 


    Tell Me: How Do People Really Speak?

    Noel is a German polyglot — she speaks English, French, Spanish and Italian fluently and is currently learning Dutch and Brazilian Portuguese. Follow her tips to ditch the flashcards and make real-life connections with even the smallest amount of language knowledge. 

    In this episode, you’ll learn how to have more authentic travel experiences through language learning. Whether your goal is to order gelato or gain a better understanding of culture, follow these tips to set attainable goals and speak with confidence as soon as you land. 


    Resources

    • Learn from Noël at Babbel. *Afar listeners can use code 1432288 to get 55 percent off a lifetime subscription.*
    • Read the transcript of this episode. 
    • Explore more Afar content for language learners: 

    The Easiest Languages for English Speakers to Learn.

    Why We Shouldn’t Always Use Translation Apps When We Travel. 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2031 no     The Spontaneous (Travel!) Story of How Afar Came to Be https://www.afar.com/podcasts No plan. No luggage. Five weeks in India. Joe Diaz and Greg Sullivan, dreamed up Afar on a beach in Goa more than 15 years ago. In this candid episode of Unpacked, they reflect on what they’ve learned by helping people travel deeper. From the spontaneous trips that honed the company’s values to how they’ve helped shape the travel industry, get an inside look into the transformative power of rallying around travel as a force for good.  But, How Many Kitchen Tables Have You Visited?  In this episode, discover: How Afar helped pave the way for “experiential travel.”  The origin and impact of Learning Afar, which gives students access to travel.  How you can continue to shape travel as a force for good in the world.   Going Home with a Rickshaw Driver.  Don’t miss these memorable moments: [2:03] It started without a plan—or luggage.  [14:55] The first step: transformative travel education.  [25:15] Spin the globe and other stories that have impacted them the most.  [37:49] A trip to Cairo that led to a surgeon’s debut on The Daily Show.     [45:15] A friendly debate on travel practices—from packing to plane rides.    The Transformative Power of Teachers Turned Travelers.  Greg Sullivan and Joe Diaz met in the classroom, so when they traveled to India and found a deeper way to travel, they had to share that with others. In this lighthearted conversation, they share the spontaneous travel stories that have impacted the industry and continue to sustain Afar 15 years later.  In this episode you’ll learn how Afar went from an idea to a multi-faceted media company, how they’ve pivoted over time to hone their impact on the world and how you can travel in a more conscious and connected way.  Resources • Explore Afar’s 15-year anniversary hub of favorite stories, including:   A Skeptic Visits the Holy Waters of Lourdes. What It’s Like to Navigate Cairo’s Chaos as a Blind Traveler.  • Read the transcript of this episode. • Listen to the podcast episodes mentioned in this episode:  A Blind Man’s Trip Will Change the Way You Go on Safari.  A Blind Surfer Takes On Kauai’s Legendary Waves. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 12 Sep 2024 07:01:00 -0000 The Spontaneous (Travel!) Story of How Afar Came to Be full 3 21 Afar No plan. No luggage. Five weeks in India. Joe Diaz and Greg Sullivan, dreamed up Afar on a beach in Goa more than 15 years ago. In this candid episode of Unpacked, they reflect on what they’ve learned by helping people travel deeper. From the spontaneous trips that honed the company’s values to how they’ve helped shape the travel industry, get an inside look into the transformative power of rallying around travel as a force for good.  But, How Many Kitchen Tables Have You Visited?  In this episode, discover: How Afar helped pave the way for “experiential travel.”  The origin and impact of Learning Afar, which gives students access to travel.  How you can continue to shape travel as a force for good in the world.   Going Home with a Rickshaw Driver.  Don’t miss these memorable moments: [2:03] It started without a plan—or luggage.  [14:55] The first step: transformative travel education.  [25:15] Spin the globe and other stories that have impacted them the most.  [37:49] A trip to Cairo that led to a surgeon’s debut on The Daily Show.     [45:15] A friendly debate on travel practices—from packing to plane rides.    The Transformative Power of Teachers Turned Travelers.  Greg Sullivan and Joe Diaz met in the classroom, so when they traveled to India and found a deeper way to travel, they had to share that with others. In this lighthearted conversation, they share the spontaneous travel stories that have impacted the industry and continue to sustain Afar 15 years later.  In this episode you’ll learn how Afar went from an idea to a multi-faceted media company, how they’ve pivoted over time to hone their impact on the world and how you can travel in a more conscious and connected way.  Resources • Explore Afar’s 15-year anniversary hub of favorite stories, including:   A Skeptic Visits the Holy Waters of Lourdes. What It’s Like to Navigate Cairo’s Chaos as a Blind Traveler.  • Read the transcript of this episode. • Listen to the podcast episodes mentioned in this episode:  A Blind Man’s Trip Will Change the Way You Go on Safari.  A Blind Surfer Takes On Kauai’s Legendary Waves. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices No plan. No luggage. Five weeks in India. Joe Diaz and Greg Sullivan, dreamed up Afar on a beach in Goa more than 15 years ago. In this candid episode of Unpacked, they reflect on what they’ve learned by helping people travel deeper. From the spontaneous trips that honed the company’s values to how they’ve helped shape the travel industry, get an inside look into the transformative power of rallying around travel as a force for good. 


    But, How Many Kitchen Tables Have You Visited? 

    In this episode, discover:

    How Afar helped pave the way for “experiential travel.” 

    The origin and impact of Learning Afar, which gives students access to travel. 

    How you can continue to shape travel as a force for good in the world.  


    Going Home with a Rickshaw Driver. 

    Don’t miss these memorable moments:

    [2:03] It started without a plan—or luggage. 

    [14:55] The first step: transformative travel education. 

    [25:15] Spin the globe and other stories that have impacted them the most. 

    [37:49] A trip to Cairo that led to a surgeon’s debut on The Daily Show.

        [45:15] A friendly debate on travel practices—from packing to plane rides.   


    The Transformative Power of Teachers Turned Travelers. 

    Greg Sullivan and Joe Diaz met in the classroom, so when they traveled to India and found a deeper way to travel, they had to share that with others. In this lighthearted conversation, they share the spontaneous travel stories that have impacted the industry and continue to sustain Afar 15 years later. 

    In this episode you’ll learn how Afar went from an idea to a multi-faceted media company, how they’ve pivoted over time to hone their impact on the world and how you can travel in a more conscious and connected way. 


    Resources

    • Explore Afar’s 15-year anniversary hub of favorite stories, including:  

    A Skeptic Visits the Holy Waters of Lourdes.

    What It’s Like to Navigate Cairo’s Chaos as a Blind Traveler. 

    • Read the transcript of this episode.

    • Listen to the podcast episodes mentioned in this episode: 

    A Blind Man’s Trip Will Change the Way You Go on Safari. 

    A Blind Surfer Takes On Kauai’s Legendary Waves.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     4064 yes     Afar, A Retrospective: A Blind Man's Trip Will Change The Way You Go On Safari https://www.afar.com/magazine/afar-15-anniversary This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. How can you have the best experience on a safari? Seeing might not be as crucial as you think. Travel with AFAR contributing writer, Ryan Knighton, who lost his sight years ago, as he tastes, feels, smells and hears his way through the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve in Zimbabwe.  A Sensory Connection with Zimbabwe’s Natural Ecosystem In this episode, discover: What it’s like to go on safari in Zimbabwe How to plan your best safari trip—beyond sightseeing How a luxury safari can deepen your travel experience.  You Can Do Better Than A Lion Photo On Your Next Safari Don’t miss these transformative travel moments: [2:44] A tight grip and a close call with an elephant [5:11] A leafy tasting near Singita’s Pashamusa Lodge [8:52] Ryan follows his nose and meets a kindred rhino [9:57] The unforgettable sounds of survival Resources • Explore the 20 Best African Safari Camps • Read the full story that Ryan wrote for Afar magazine. • Follow Ryan on X. • Check out Ryan's other work. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 11 Sep 2024 06:59:00 -0000 Afar, A Retrospective: A Blind Man's Trip Will Change The Way You Go On Safari bonus Afar This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen. How can you have the best experience on a safari? Seeing might not be as crucial as you think. Travel with AFAR contributing writer, Ryan Knighton, who lost his sight years ago, as he tastes, feels, smells and hears his way through the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve in Zimbabwe.  A Sensory Connection with Zimbabwe’s Natural Ecosystem In this episode, discover: What it’s like to go on safari in Zimbabwe How to plan your best safari trip—beyond sightseeing How a luxury safari can deepen your travel experience.  You Can Do Better Than A Lion Photo On Your Next Safari Don’t miss these transformative travel moments: [2:44] A tight grip and a close call with an elephant [5:11] A leafy tasting near Singita’s Pashamusa Lodge [8:52] Ryan follows his nose and meets a kindred rhino [9:57] The unforgettable sounds of survival Resources • Explore the 20 Best African Safari Camps • Read the full story that Ryan wrote for Afar magazine. • Follow Ryan on X. • Check out Ryan's other work. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This podcast episode is part of Afar, A Retrospective. As part of Afar’s 15-year anniversary celebration, this episode from our sister podcast, Travel Tales by Afar, was selected as one of our favorites. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do—and stay tuned for more archival Travel Tales episodes from September - December 2024. Explore more of our favorite stories over the years at afar.com/fifteen.

    How can you have the best experience on a safari? Seeing might not be as crucial as you think. Travel with AFAR contributing writer, Ryan Knighton, who lost his sight years ago, as he tastes, feels, smells and hears his way through the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve in Zimbabwe. 


    A Sensory Connection with Zimbabwe’s Natural Ecosystem

    In this episode, discover:

    What it’s like to go on safari in Zimbabwe

    How to plan your best safari trip—beyond sightseeing

    How a luxury safari can deepen your travel experience. 


    You Can Do Better Than A Lion Photo On Your Next Safari

    Don’t miss these transformative travel moments:

    [2:44] A tight grip and a close call with an elephant

    [5:11] A leafy tasting near Singita’s Pashamusa Lodge

    [8:52] Ryan follows his nose and meets a kindred rhino

    [9:57] The unforgettable sounds of survival


    Resources

    • Explore the 20 Best African Safari Camps

    • Read the full story that Ryan wrote for Afar magazine.

    • Follow Ryan on X.

    • Check out Ryan's other work.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1133 no     It's Time to Reclaim the "Tourist" Label https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked The world has had enough of "bad" tourists. But while most of us know not to trespass (with a car!) across ancient bridges or defile national heritage sites, the problems with tourism go deeper than that. Enter "The New Tourist" by journalist Paige McClanahan, a thoughtful invitation to engage with the issues facing travel—and the solutions. In today's episode, host Aislyn Greene chats with Paige about the lack of government regulation that turned tourism in Barcelona into a nightmare, the power (and peril) of social media, and what Paige means by “the new tourist.”  In this episode, discover: Tourist hot spots around the world and how they've made tourism work for them (or not) Why government regulation is more important than we think. What the "new tourist" looks like—and tips for embracing the new ethos. Meet this week’s guest Paige McClanahan, author of The New Tourist Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Buy the book.  Listen to The Better Travel Podcast, hosted by Paige.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 05 Sep 2024 07:01:00 -0000 It's Time to Reclaim the "Tourist" Label full 3 20 Afar The world has had enough of "bad" tourists. But while most of us know not to trespass (with a car!) across ancient bridges or defile national heritage sites, the problems with tourism go deeper than that. Enter "The New Tourist" by journalist Paige McClanahan, a thoughtful invitation to engage with the issues facing travel—and the solutions. In today's episode, host Aislyn Greene chats with Paige about the lack of government regulation that turned tourism in Barcelona into a nightmare, the power (and peril) of social media, and what Paige means by “the new tourist.”  In this episode, discover: Tourist hot spots around the world and how they've made tourism work for them (or not) Why government regulation is more important than we think. What the "new tourist" looks like—and tips for embracing the new ethos. Meet this week’s guest Paige McClanahan, author of The New Tourist Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Buy the book.  Listen to The Better Travel Podcast, hosted by Paige.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The world has had enough of "bad" tourists. But while most of us know not to trespass (with a car!) across ancient bridges or defile national heritage sites, the problems with tourism go deeper than that. Enter "The New Tourist" by journalist Paige McClanahan, a thoughtful invitation to engage with the issues facing travel—and the solutions. In today's episode, host Aislyn Greene chats with Paige about the lack of government regulation that turned tourism in Barcelona into a nightmare, the power (and peril) of social media, and what Paige means by “the new tourist.” 


    In this episode, discover:

    Tourist hot spots around the world and how they've made tourism work for them (or not)

    Why government regulation is more important than we think.

    What the "new tourist" looks like—and tips for embracing the new ethos.


    Meet this week’s guest


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2832 no     From Bomba to Bad Bunny: Searching for the Sounds of Puerto Rico https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked Puerto Rico has had a huge impact on the world's music scene, in comparison to its size. And on this week's episode, host Aislyn Greene travels to the island to find out why. She explores bomba and plena, two of the earliest forms of music that emerged from Puerto Rico’s African ancestors. Discovers jibaro music, or “hillbilly” music, though this style of music is incredibly complex and improvisational. Found the source of danza music, watched salsa musicians urge people to their feet, and met with reggaetón artists. And though we couldn’t possibly capture all of the complexities of the island’s music in one episode, we hope it does reveal what she found: a place that is singularly committed to art and music. As one of her guides, Nory, put it: “We are artisans, we are painters, we are all musicians. That’s actually the identity of a Puerto Rican.” Meet this week’s guests Margarita “Tata” Cepeda, owner of Puerto Rico Is Bomba, a dance and music school Maribel Martinez, guide at House of the Troubadour Luis Miranda “Pico de Oro” Melina Aguillar, owner of Isla Caribe Tours Norymar Maldonado, Isla Caribe tour guide Angelina Villapiano Luna, musician, dancer, and salsa teacher Petra Rivera Rideau, author of Remixing Reggaetón: The Cultural Politics of Race in Puerto Rico RaiNao, urbano musician  Herson Guerrero, professor, photographer, and musician  Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Listen to the playlist. Read Petra's Bad Bunny Syllabus Listen to the La Brega podcast. Explore club 58 at La Concha resort. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to Afar’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 30 May 2024 07:01:00 -0000 From Bomba to Bad Bunny: Searching for the Sounds of Puerto Rico full 3 19 Afar Puerto Rico has had a huge impact on the world's music scene, in comparison to its size. And on this week's episode, host Aislyn Greene travels to the island to find out why. She explores bomba and plena, two of the earliest forms of music that emerged from Puerto Rico’s African ancestors. Discovers jibaro music, or “hillbilly” music, though this style of music is incredibly complex and improvisational. Found the source of danza music, watched salsa musicians urge people to their feet, and met with reggaetón artists. And though we couldn’t possibly capture all of the complexities of the island’s music in one episode, we hope it does reveal what she found: a place that is singularly committed to art and music. As one of her guides, Nory, put it: “We are artisans, we are painters, we are all musicians. That’s actually the identity of a Puerto Rican.” Meet this week’s guests Margarita “Tata” Cepeda, owner of Puerto Rico Is Bomba, a dance and music school Maribel Martinez, guide at House of the Troubadour Luis Miranda “Pico de Oro” Melina Aguillar, owner of Isla Caribe Tours Norymar Maldonado, Isla Caribe tour guide Angelina Villapiano Luna, musician, dancer, and salsa teacher Petra Rivera Rideau, author of Remixing Reggaetón: The Cultural Politics of Race in Puerto Rico RaiNao, urbano musician  Herson Guerrero, professor, photographer, and musician  Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Listen to the playlist. Read Petra's Bad Bunny Syllabus Listen to the La Brega podcast. Explore club 58 at La Concha resort. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to Afar’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Puerto Rico has had a huge impact on the world's music scene, in comparison to its size. And on this week's episode, host Aislyn Greene travels to the island to find out why. She explores bomba and plena, two of the earliest forms of music that emerged from Puerto Rico’s African ancestors. Discovers jibaro music, or “hillbilly” music, though this style of music is incredibly complex and improvisational. Found the source of danza music, watched salsa musicians urge people to their feet, and met with reggaetón artists.

    And though we couldn’t possibly capture all of the complexities of the island’s music in one episode, we hope it does reveal what she found: a place that is singularly committed to art and music. As one of her guides, Nory, put it: “We are artisans, we are painters, we are all musicians. That’s actually the identity of a Puerto Rican.”


    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3043 no     Live Snakes, Birkin Bags, Hoverboards, and More: Life Inside the Store That Sells Lost Luggage https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked What happens to suitcases that can’t be reunited with their owners? It’s not something we think about that often, but for Bryan Owens, it’s an entire business. He’s the CEO and now-owner of the Scottsboro, Alabama–based Unclaimed Baggage, the only store in the United States that sells lost luggage. As you’ll hear in today’s episode, his dad launched the business more than 50 years ago with an old Chevy pickup and $300. And now the business stocks more than 7,000 new items a day.  The company recently released its first annual Found Report, a deep dive into the more than 2 million items that came through its doors in 2023, including including the aforementioned live snakes and fancy handbags. Host Aislyn Greene talks with Bryan about where these bags come from, how the company makes decisions about what to sell and, more interestingly, what it does with everything else: Donations and partnerships with organizations like Wheels for the World are critical to its mission.  Meet this week’s guest Bryan Owens, CEO and owner of Unclaimed Baggage Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Check out Unclaimed Baggage.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to Afar’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 23 May 2024 07:01:00 -0000 Live Snakes, Birkin Bags, Hoverboards, and More: Life Inside the Store That Sells Lost Luggage full 3 18 Afar What happens to suitcases that can’t be reunited with their owners? It’s not something we think about that often, but for Bryan Owens, it’s an entire business. He’s the CEO and now-owner of the Scottsboro, Alabama–based Unclaimed Baggage, the only store in the United States that sells lost luggage. As you’ll hear in today’s episode, his dad launched the business more than 50 years ago with an old Chevy pickup and $300. And now the business stocks more than 7,000 new items a day.  The company recently released its first annual Found Report, a deep dive into the more than 2 million items that came through its doors in 2023, including including the aforementioned live snakes and fancy handbags. Host Aislyn Greene talks with Bryan about where these bags come from, how the company makes decisions about what to sell and, more interestingly, what it does with everything else: Donations and partnerships with organizations like Wheels for the World are critical to its mission.  Meet this week’s guest Bryan Owens, CEO and owner of Unclaimed Baggage Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Check out Unclaimed Baggage.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to Afar’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What happens to suitcases that can’t be reunited with their owners? It’s not something we think about that often, but for Bryan Owens, it’s an entire business. He’s the CEO and now-owner of the Scottsboro, Alabama–based Unclaimed Baggage, the only store in the United States that sells lost luggage. As you’ll hear in today’s episode, his dad launched the business more than 50 years ago with an old Chevy pickup and $300. And now the business stocks more than 7,000 new items a day. 

    The company recently released its first annual Found Report, a deep dive into the more than 2 million items that came through its doors in 2023, including including the aforementioned live snakes and fancy handbags. Host Aislyn Greene talks with Bryan about where these bags come from, how the company makes decisions about what to sell and, more interestingly, what it does with everything else: Donations and partnerships with organizations like Wheels for the World are critical to its mission. 

    Meet this week’s guest

    • Bryan Owens, CEO and owner of Unclaimed Baggage


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2292 no     A Way (Way, Way) Better Way to Book Travel Using Points and Miles https://afar.com/podcasts It’s easier than ever to earn travel points and (sometimes) miles through credit cards and loyalty programs. But when it comes to actually using those points to book travel, things can get complicated. While there are people out there who love to geek out about those complications, it’s not for everyone. Enter companies like Award Magic, which uses their expertise to book award travel using your hard-earned points. In this week’s episode, Award Magic owner and CEO shares shares his backstory (shocker: he was a math teacher), his vision for the business (it involves really affordable around-the-world tickets), and why we should all be flying business class more than we do. Plus, he works his magic to book a Japan flight using host Aislyn Greene’s Chase points. Meet this week’s guests Brian Cohen, CEO and owner of Award Magic Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Check out Brian’s Award Magic services.  Listen to our episode about the best programs to earn points and miles.  Explore Point.Me, another award-booking service. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to Afar’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 16 May 2024 07:01:00 -0000 A Way (Way, Way) Better Way to Book Travel Using Points and Miles full 3 17 Afar It’s easier than ever to earn travel points and (sometimes) miles through credit cards and loyalty programs. But when it comes to actually using those points to book travel, things can get complicated. While there are people out there who love to geek out about those complications, it’s not for everyone. Enter companies like Award Magic, which uses their expertise to book award travel using your hard-earned points. In this week’s episode, Award Magic owner and CEO shares shares his backstory (shocker: he was a math teacher), his vision for the business (it involves really affordable around-the-world tickets), and why we should all be flying business class more than we do. Plus, he works his magic to book a Japan flight using host Aislyn Greene’s Chase points. Meet this week’s guests Brian Cohen, CEO and owner of Award Magic Resources Read the full transcript of the episode.  Check out Brian’s Award Magic services.  Listen to our episode about the best programs to earn points and miles.  Explore Point.Me, another award-booking service. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to Afar’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It’s easier than ever to earn travel points and (sometimes) miles through credit cards and loyalty programs. But when it comes to actually using those points to book travel, things can get complicated. While there are people out there who love to geek out about those complications, it’s not for everyone. Enter companies like Award Magic, which uses their expertise to book award travel using your hard-earned points. In this week’s episode, Award Magic owner and CEO shares shares his backstory (shocker: he was a math teacher), his vision for the business (it involves really affordable around-the-world tickets), and why we should all be flying business class more than we do. Plus, he works his magic to book a Japan flight using host Aislyn Greene’s Chase points.


    Meet this week’s guests

    • Brian Cohen, CEO and owner of Award Magic

    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2760 no     Replay: Everything You Need to Know About Travel Insurance (Before Booking Your Summer Trips) https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked With summer travel on the horizon, it's an excellent time to talk about everyone's favorite subject: Travel insurance. It's not the sexiest subject, is it? And yet, it can play a huge role in saving you money, time, and even sanity. In this replay episode of Unpacked by AFAR, we speak with five experts to help you understand how to decided if and when you need insurance, the different types of policies you can buy, and how to use travel insurance if something goes wrong on your trip. Meet this week’s guests Wendy Perrin, travel expert Christina Tunnah, general manager of marketing and brands for World Nomads Beth Godlin, President of Aon Affinity Travel Practice John Gobbels, vice president and COO of Medjet Nick Cavanaugh, founder and CEO of Sensible Weather Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read our primer on travel insurance.  Explore Wendy Perrin’s website.  Use sites like travelinsurance.com or insuremytrip.com to help you decide on the right policy.  Learn more about World Nomads. Discover more about Aon Affinity Travel Services. Learn more about Medjet. Find out more about Sensible Weather. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 09 May 2024 07:01:00 -0000 Replay: Everything You Need to Know About Travel Insurance (Before Booking Your Summer Trips) full 3 17 Afar With summer travel on the horizon, it's an excellent time to talk about everyone's favorite subject: Travel insurance. It's not the sexiest subject, is it? And yet, it can play a huge role in saving you money, time, and even sanity. In this replay episode of Unpacked by AFAR, we speak with five experts to help you understand how to decided if and when you need insurance, the different types of policies you can buy, and how to use travel insurance if something goes wrong on your trip. Meet this week’s guests Wendy Perrin, travel expert Christina Tunnah, general manager of marketing and brands for World Nomads Beth Godlin, President of Aon Affinity Travel Practice John Gobbels, vice president and COO of Medjet Nick Cavanaugh, founder and CEO of Sensible Weather Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read our primer on travel insurance.  Explore Wendy Perrin’s website.  Use sites like travelinsurance.com or insuremytrip.com to help you decide on the right policy.  Learn more about World Nomads. Discover more about Aon Affinity Travel Services. Learn more about Medjet. Find out more about Sensible Weather. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices With summer travel on the horizon, it's an excellent time to talk about everyone's favorite subject: Travel insurance. It's not the sexiest subject, is it? And yet, it can play a huge role in saving you money, time, and even sanity. In this replay episode of Unpacked by AFAR, we speak with five experts to help you understand how to decided if and when you need insurance, the different types of policies you can buy, and how to use travel insurance if something goes wrong on your trip.

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2205 no     Visiting Native Communities Is More Important Than Ever—Here’s How to Do It Right https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked Last November, while reporting our “Unpacking Albuquerque” episode, I spent a day at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. It’s this huge complex that takes up a city block, and it serves as the gateway to New Mexico’s 19 pueblos. Part of my tour included an interview with Monique Fragua, the center’s COO (and a woman with great taste in jewelry, as you’ll hear in the episode).  We talked about why the cultural center exists, beyond just sharing pueblo cultural life (and food—the restaurant is a must-try). Monique explained that many travelers are interested in visiting the pueblos but are either unsure of or unaware of the etiquette around visiting. For example, some pueblos are completely closed to the public and have no interest in developing tourist infrastructure and others have “more formalized experiences like visitors’ center or organized hiking tours,” Monique says.  So the IPCC serves as a kind of training ground as well, where visitors can ask questions like, “What’s the proper terminology?” and receive guidance around photography, attending cultural events, and more.  It got me thinking more broadly about Native tourism, which has expanded in recent years. And with the explosive success of True Detective: Night Country, there’s more attention than ever on Native issues. So we put together an episode on why to visit these communities—there are more than 500 tribes in the United States, each with totally different histories, customs, and experiences—and how to do so in a way that’s mutually beneficial.  There’s one line that’s stuck with me since Monique and I talked: She says that if we remember that we’re experiencing Native life “through a lens of a living community, a breathing culture,” we’re on the right path. Meet this week’s guests Sherry Rupert, CEO of the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association Garan Coons, communications officer for the Winnebago tribe Kirby Metoxin, council member for the Oneida nation Monique Fragua, COO of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to the “Unpacking Albuquerque” episode. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 25 Apr 2024 07:01:00 -0000 Visiting Native Communities Is More Important Than Ever—Here’s How to Do It Right full 3 15 Afar Last November, while reporting our “Unpacking Albuquerque” episode, I spent a day at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. It’s this huge complex that takes up a city block, and it serves as the gateway to New Mexico’s 19 pueblos. Part of my tour included an interview with Monique Fragua, the center’s COO (and a woman with great taste in jewelry, as you’ll hear in the episode).  We talked about why the cultural center exists, beyond just sharing pueblo cultural life (and food—the restaurant is a must-try). Monique explained that many travelers are interested in visiting the pueblos but are either unsure of or unaware of the etiquette around visiting. For example, some pueblos are completely closed to the public and have no interest in developing tourist infrastructure and others have “more formalized experiences like visitors’ center or organized hiking tours,” Monique says.  So the IPCC serves as a kind of training ground as well, where visitors can ask questions like, “What’s the proper terminology?” and receive guidance around photography, attending cultural events, and more.  It got me thinking more broadly about Native tourism, which has expanded in recent years. And with the explosive success of True Detective: Night Country, there’s more attention than ever on Native issues. So we put together an episode on why to visit these communities—there are more than 500 tribes in the United States, each with totally different histories, customs, and experiences—and how to do so in a way that’s mutually beneficial.  There’s one line that’s stuck with me since Monique and I talked: She says that if we remember that we’re experiencing Native life “through a lens of a living community, a breathing culture,” we’re on the right path. Meet this week’s guests Sherry Rupert, CEO of the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association Garan Coons, communications officer for the Winnebago tribe Kirby Metoxin, council member for the Oneida nation Monique Fragua, COO of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to the “Unpacking Albuquerque” episode. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Last November, while reporting our “Unpacking Albuquerque” episode, I spent a day at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. It’s this huge complex that takes up a city block, and it serves as the gateway to New Mexico’s 19 pueblos. Part of my tour included an interview with Monique Fragua, the center’s COO (and a woman with great taste in jewelry, as you’ll hear in the episode). 

    We talked about why the cultural center exists, beyond just sharing pueblo cultural life (and food—the restaurant is a must-try). Monique explained that many travelers are interested in visiting the pueblos but are either unsure of or unaware of the etiquette around visiting. For example, some pueblos are completely closed to the public and have no interest in developing tourist infrastructure and others have “more formalized experiences like visitors’ center or organized hiking tours,” Monique says. 

    So the IPCC serves as a kind of training ground as well, where visitors can ask questions like, “What’s the proper terminology?” and receive guidance around photography, attending cultural events, and more. 

    It got me thinking more broadly about Native tourism, which has expanded in recent years. And with the explosive success of True Detective: Night Country, there’s more attention than ever on Native issues. So we put together an episode on why to visit these communities—there are more than 500 tribes in the United States, each with totally different histories, customs, and experiences—and how to do so in a way that’s mutually beneficial. 

    There’s one line that’s stuck with me since Monique and I talked: She says that if we remember that we’re experiencing Native life “through a lens of a living community, a breathing culture,” we’re on the right path.

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1639 no     The True Story of One of the World's Most Diverse Cities https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked This week on Unpacked, we travel north to Toronto, Ontario, one of the world’s most diverse cities to explore what’s made it that way—and how we as travelers can best engage with it. That includes eating a peameal bacon sandwich (and learning what that is) at the St. Lawrence Market, visiting the city's most unusual museum, exploring its diverse parks and gorgeous waterfront, and eating (and eating and eating). Meet this week’s guests Bruce Bell, St. Lawrence Market historian and tour guide Matthew Jordan, founder of Hidden Rivers walking tours Elizabeth Semmelhack, curator at the Bata Shoe Museum Karen Carter, cofounder of BAND Chef Nuit Regular, founder and co-owner of 11 Thai restaurants  Jusep Sim, chief epicurean officer of Chopsticks and Forks  Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 18 Apr 2024 07:01:00 -0000 full 3 14 Afar This week on Unpacked, we travel north to Toronto, Ontario, one of the world’s most diverse cities to explore what’s made it that way—and how we as travelers can best engage with it. That includes eating a peameal bacon sandwich (and learning what that is) at the St. Lawrence Market, visiting the city's most unusual museum, exploring its diverse parks and gorgeous waterfront, and eating (and eating and eating). Meet this week’s guests Bruce Bell, St. Lawrence Market historian and tour guide Matthew Jordan, founder of Hidden Rivers walking tours Elizabeth Semmelhack, curator at the Bata Shoe Museum Karen Carter, cofounder of BAND Chef Nuit Regular, founder and co-owner of 11 Thai restaurants  Jusep Sim, chief epicurean officer of Chopsticks and Forks  Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This week on Unpacked, we travel north to Toronto, Ontario, one of the world’s most diverse cities to explore what’s made it that way—and how we as travelers can best engage with it. That includes eating a peameal bacon sandwich (and learning what that is) at the St. Lawrence Market, visiting the city's most unusual museum, exploring its diverse parks and gorgeous waterfront, and eating (and eating and eating).

    Meet this week’s guests



    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2927 no     Taylor Swift, New Flights, and Climate Change: Everything You Need to Know About Summer Travel This Year https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked Summer is coming. And while it's not looking like this season will be as insane as summer 2023, it's still best to begin planning now. So on this week’s episode of Unpacked, AFAR's mighty destination teams discusses what's to come. They share the best places to visit this summer—think Southern Hemisphere—and what you need to tackle now to stay ahead of the came. Plus, we unpack the best visa expeditors and the best way to use those points and miles. (Hint: It involves outsourcing.) Meet this week’s guests Mark Ellwood, freelance travel writer Chloe Arrojado, associate destinations editor Tim Chester, deputy editor Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to our episode on travel insurance, where we discuss Sensible Weather. Learn more about Award Magic, the point booking service, and ItsEasy, the visa expediter. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 11 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Taylor Swift, New Flights, and Climate Change: Everything You Need to Know About Summer Travel This Year full 3 13 Afar Summer is coming. And while it's not looking like this season will be as insane as summer 2023, it's still best to begin planning now. So on this week’s episode of Unpacked, AFAR's mighty destination teams discusses what's to come. They share the best places to visit this summer—think Southern Hemisphere—and what you need to tackle now to stay ahead of the came. Plus, we unpack the best visa expeditors and the best way to use those points and miles. (Hint: It involves outsourcing.) Meet this week’s guests Mark Ellwood, freelance travel writer Chloe Arrojado, associate destinations editor Tim Chester, deputy editor Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to our episode on travel insurance, where we discuss Sensible Weather. Learn more about Award Magic, the point booking service, and ItsEasy, the visa expediter. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Summer is coming. And while it's not looking like this season will be as insane as summer 2023, it's still best to begin planning now. So on this week’s episode of Unpacked, AFAR's mighty destination teams discusses what's to come. They share the best places to visit this summer—think Southern Hemisphere—and what you need to tackle now to stay ahead of the came. Plus, we unpack the best visa expeditors and the best way to use those points and miles. (Hint: It involves outsourcing.)

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2290 no     Behind the Scenes: How We Create Our Best New Hotels List https://afar.com/podcasts The best hotels are a destination unto themselves. On this week’s episode of Unpacked, AFAR senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers reveals the 31 properties that made our 2024 Best New Hotels list and why booking a hotel is the most important choice you’ll make for your trip. The list is a collection of the best hotels that opened in the past year, but these hotels are much more than just a place to sleep and store your clothes. There are places where you can literally touch history, like at the Raffles London at the OWO, where Winston Churchill once presided. If you love design, you can book a few nights at the Violino d’Oro in Venice, where everything you might touch was made by local artisans. Or, if you want to get off the grid and outdoors, there’s the Shinta Mani Mustang in a remote corner of Nepal that doesn’t see many tourists.  Jenn joined the podcast to talk about how she put together the list, what she looks for in a great hotel, and how—as she puts it—“when you check into a hotel, it can actually be the destination.”  Meet this week’s guest Jennifer Flowers, AFAR senior deputy editor Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read the full list of the 31 best new hotels.  Follow Jenn on Instagram and LinkedIn.  Subscribe to AFAR’s hotels newsletter.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 04 Apr 2024 07:01:00 -0000 Behind the Scenes: How We Create Our Best New Hotels List full 3 12 Afar The best hotels are a destination unto themselves. On this week’s episode of Unpacked, AFAR senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers reveals the 31 properties that made our 2024 Best New Hotels list and why booking a hotel is the most important choice you’ll make for your trip. The list is a collection of the best hotels that opened in the past year, but these hotels are much more than just a place to sleep and store your clothes. There are places where you can literally touch history, like at the Raffles London at the OWO, where Winston Churchill once presided. If you love design, you can book a few nights at the Violino d’Oro in Venice, where everything you might touch was made by local artisans. Or, if you want to get off the grid and outdoors, there’s the Shinta Mani Mustang in a remote corner of Nepal that doesn’t see many tourists.  Jenn joined the podcast to talk about how she put together the list, what she looks for in a great hotel, and how—as she puts it—“when you check into a hotel, it can actually be the destination.”  Meet this week’s guest Jennifer Flowers, AFAR senior deputy editor Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read the full list of the 31 best new hotels.  Follow Jenn on Instagram and LinkedIn.  Subscribe to AFAR’s hotels newsletter.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The best hotels are a destination unto themselves. On this week’s episode of Unpacked, AFAR senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers reveals the 31 properties that made our 2024 Best New Hotels list and why booking a hotel is the most important choice you’ll make for your trip.

    The list is a collection of the best hotels that opened in the past year, but these hotels are much more than just a place to sleep and store your clothes. There are places where you can literally touch history, like at the Raffles London at the OWO, where Winston Churchill once presided. If you love design, you can book a few nights at the Violino d’Oro in Venice, where everything you might touch was made by local artisans. Or, if you want to get off the grid and outdoors, there’s the Shinta Mani Mustang in a remote corner of Nepal that doesn’t see many tourists. 

    Jenn joined the podcast to talk about how she put together the list, what she looks for in a great hotel, and how—as she puts it—“when you check into a hotel, it can actually be the destination.” 

    Meet this week’s guest

    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2247 no     This Midwestern City Is One of the Country’s Best-Kept Food Secrets https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked Hot tip: Don’t listen to this week’s episode of Unpacked hungry. Because we’re traveling to a surprising Midwestern city to explore what makes it one of the most fascinating food cities in the country. Last June, host Aislyn Greene traveled to Madison, Wisconsin, and was surprised by what she found: A refreshingly progressive, highly bikeable, very outdoorsy, and (best yet), delicious city.  If you're a food-motivated traveler, you're likely always looking for the next great spot. And as she ate her way through Madison, Aislyn wondered: Why aren't more people talking about Madison? So in today’s episode, that’s exactly what we’re doing. We'll explore Wisconsin's agriculture scene, meet the city's most interesting chefs, and look at what to do when you're too full to eat any more. Meet this week’s guests Shilpa Sankaran, founder of Kosa Lindsay Christians, food editor and arts writer at the Capital Times Sean Pharr, chef and owner of Mint Mark Itaru Nagano, chef at Fairchild Shaina Robbins Papach, co-owner of Harvey House and Butterbird Dan Bonnano, chef and owner of Pig in a Fur Coat Jamie Brown-Soukaseum, chef and owner of Ahan Garret Olsen, co-owner of Madison Adventure Tours Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Check out the latest season of Top Chef: Wisconsin Read my guide to the culinary scene there.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 28 Mar 2024 07:01:00 -0000 This Midwestern City Is One of the Country’s Best-Kept Food Secrets full 3 11 Afar Hot tip: Don’t listen to this week’s episode of Unpacked hungry. Because we’re traveling to a surprising Midwestern city to explore what makes it one of the most fascinating food cities in the country. Last June, host Aislyn Greene traveled to Madison, Wisconsin, and was surprised by what she found: A refreshingly progressive, highly bikeable, very outdoorsy, and (best yet), delicious city.  If you're a food-motivated traveler, you're likely always looking for the next great spot. And as she ate her way through Madison, Aislyn wondered: Why aren't more people talking about Madison? So in today’s episode, that’s exactly what we’re doing. We'll explore Wisconsin's agriculture scene, meet the city's most interesting chefs, and look at what to do when you're too full to eat any more. Meet this week’s guests Shilpa Sankaran, founder of Kosa Lindsay Christians, food editor and arts writer at the Capital Times Sean Pharr, chef and owner of Mint Mark Itaru Nagano, chef at Fairchild Shaina Robbins Papach, co-owner of Harvey House and Butterbird Dan Bonnano, chef and owner of Pig in a Fur Coat Jamie Brown-Soukaseum, chef and owner of Ahan Garret Olsen, co-owner of Madison Adventure Tours Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Check out the latest season of Top Chef: Wisconsin Read my guide to the culinary scene there.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hot tip: Don’t listen to this week’s episode of Unpacked hungry. Because we’re traveling to a surprising Midwestern city to explore what makes it one of the most fascinating food cities in the country. Last June, host Aislyn Greene traveled to Madison, Wisconsin, and was surprised by what she found: A refreshingly progressive, highly bikeable, very outdoorsy, and (best yet), delicious city. 

    If you're a food-motivated traveler, you're likely always looking for the next great spot. And as she ate her way through Madison, Aislyn wondered: Why aren't more people talking about Madison? So in today’s episode, that’s exactly what we’re doing. We'll explore Wisconsin's agriculture scene, meet the city's most interesting chefs, and look at what to do when you're too full to eat any more.


    Meet this week’s guests



    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2170 no     At This Remote Island Resort, Staff Housing Is (Almost) as Luxurious as the Guest Quarters https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked If you travel to a remote island resort, where do the people who work there live? Because of course, if we are traveling to a remote location, it’s highly unlikely that it’s an easy place for hotel staff to commute to and from. Typically on an island resort, staffers are housed in the middle of the island and don’t have access to the beach, the walking paths, or any of the amenities that make these destinations so appealing to travelers.  But there’s a new type of staff housing pioneered by the Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, which created an entire island for its employees—one where they can also snorkel, swim, relax, eat, work out, and just generally soak in the Maldives. This week’s guest, Sally Kohn, traveled to the resort last year to get a peek at the island and see if it’s really as impressive as it seems. She was surprised by what she found—happy employees included. Meet this week’s guest Sally Kohn, activist, speaker, and author of the book The Opposite of Hate: A Field Guide to Repairing Our Humanity. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Check out the Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Read some of Sally’s other AFAR stories, including her essay about traveling as a queer family, and her podcast episode about exploring tolerance in Amsterdam.  Buy Sally’s book.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 21 Mar 2024 07:01:00 -0000 At This Remote Island Resort, Staff Housing Is (Almost) as Luxurious as the Guest Quarters full 3 10 Afar If you travel to a remote island resort, where do the people who work there live? Because of course, if we are traveling to a remote location, it’s highly unlikely that it’s an easy place for hotel staff to commute to and from. Typically on an island resort, staffers are housed in the middle of the island and don’t have access to the beach, the walking paths, or any of the amenities that make these destinations so appealing to travelers.  But there’s a new type of staff housing pioneered by the Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, which created an entire island for its employees—one where they can also snorkel, swim, relax, eat, work out, and just generally soak in the Maldives. This week’s guest, Sally Kohn, traveled to the resort last year to get a peek at the island and see if it’s really as impressive as it seems. She was surprised by what she found—happy employees included. Meet this week’s guest Sally Kohn, activist, speaker, and author of the book The Opposite of Hate: A Field Guide to Repairing Our Humanity. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Check out the Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Read some of Sally’s other AFAR stories, including her essay about traveling as a queer family, and her podcast episode about exploring tolerance in Amsterdam.  Buy Sally’s book.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices If you travel to a remote island resort, where do the people who work there live? Because of course, if we are traveling to a remote location, it’s highly unlikely that it’s an easy place for hotel staff to commute to and from. Typically on an island resort, staffers are housed in the middle of the island and don’t have access to the beach, the walking paths, or any of the amenities that make these destinations so appealing to travelers. 

    But there’s a new type of staff housing pioneered by the Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, which created an entire island for its employees—one where they can also snorkel, swim, relax, eat, work out, and just generally soak in the Maldives. This week’s guest, Sally Kohn, traveled to the resort last year to get a peek at the island and see if it’s really as impressive as it seems. She was surprised by what she found—happy employees included.

    Meet this week’s guest

    • Sally Kohn, activist, speaker, and author of the book The Opposite of Hate: A Field Guide to Repairing Our Humanity.


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1219 no     Why You Have to See the April Solar Eclipse, According to an Airstream-Loving Astronomy Expert https://afar.com/podcasts Where will you be on April 8, 2024? In case that date isn’t burned into your brain, it’s the day the sun, Earth, and the moon will completely align, creating a total solar eclipse that will sweep over a section of the United States. It will plunge cities around the U.S.—from Austin, Texas, to Buffalo, New York, into darkness for up to four minutes and 27 seconds and, according to our guest today, will be “the greatest science event in human history.”  That’s because it’s going to be one of the most accessible celestial events to happen in recent times: The path of totality crosses some of the most populated areas of the United States, and astro-tourists will flock to places like Texas in droves. Scott Roberts, today’s guest, will also be there, guiding a small group of people through the event at a ranch in Leakey, Texas.  To be honest, I wasn’t planning on traveling for the eclipse, but after interviewing Scott, I started to wonder if I’m missing out: He likens viewing an eclipse to some of his peak life experiences, nearly up there with witnessing childbirth. He’s seen four solar eclipses since he started photographing them as a young man, and now he’s a kind of eclipse evangelist.  Maybe you, like me, didn’t make plans to see the eclipse. Or maybe you’ve had your plans locked in since 2022. Either way, Scott has a nugget of wisdom for you, from how to view your first solar eclipse (hint: just enjoy it) to the reason we should all celebrate the sun’s rise every day.  He’s also an avid Airstreamer and has been traveling around the country in a 1968 Overlander named Barbara Jean after his travel-loving mom. He shared how he downsized to the Airstream lifestyle and how this kind of travel allows him freedom to follow his celestial obsessions.  Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Check out Scott’s website, Explore Scientific.  Explore Scott’s eclipse trip in April (or just buy a pair of glasses).  Learn more about seeing the eclipse.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Meet this week’s guest Scott Roberts, founder of Explore Scientific, and eclipse enthusiast Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 14 Mar 2024 09:40:00 -0000 Why You Have to See the April Solar Eclipse, According to an Airstream-Loving Astronomy Expert full 3 9 Afar Where will you be on April 8, 2024? In case that date isn’t burned into your brain, it’s the day the sun, Earth, and the moon will completely align, creating a total solar eclipse that will sweep over a section of the United States. It will plunge cities around the U.S.—from Austin, Texas, to Buffalo, New York, into darkness for up to four minutes and 27 seconds and, according to our guest today, will be “the greatest science event in human history.”  That’s because it’s going to be one of the most accessible celestial events to happen in recent times: The path of totality crosses some of the most populated areas of the United States, and astro-tourists will flock to places like Texas in droves. Scott Roberts, today’s guest, will also be there, guiding a small group of people through the event at a ranch in Leakey, Texas.  To be honest, I wasn’t planning on traveling for the eclipse, but after interviewing Scott, I started to wonder if I’m missing out: He likens viewing an eclipse to some of his peak life experiences, nearly up there with witnessing childbirth. He’s seen four solar eclipses since he started photographing them as a young man, and now he’s a kind of eclipse evangelist.  Maybe you, like me, didn’t make plans to see the eclipse. Or maybe you’ve had your plans locked in since 2022. Either way, Scott has a nugget of wisdom for you, from how to view your first solar eclipse (hint: just enjoy it) to the reason we should all celebrate the sun’s rise every day.  He’s also an avid Airstreamer and has been traveling around the country in a 1968 Overlander named Barbara Jean after his travel-loving mom. He shared how he downsized to the Airstream lifestyle and how this kind of travel allows him freedom to follow his celestial obsessions.  Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Check out Scott’s website, Explore Scientific.  Explore Scott’s eclipse trip in April (or just buy a pair of glasses).  Learn more about seeing the eclipse.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Meet this week’s guest Scott Roberts, founder of Explore Scientific, and eclipse enthusiast Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Where will you be on April 8, 2024? In case that date isn’t burned into your brain, it’s the day the sun, Earth, and the moon will completely align, creating a total solar eclipse that will sweep over a section of the United States. It will plunge cities around the U.S.—from Austin, Texas, to Buffalo, New York, into darkness for up to four minutes and 27 seconds and, according to our guest today, will be “the greatest science event in human history.” 

    That’s because it’s going to be one of the most accessible celestial events to happen in recent times: The path of totality crosses some of the most populated areas of the United States, and astro-tourists will flock to places like Texas in droves. Scott Roberts, today’s guest, will also be there, guiding a small group of people through the event at a ranch in Leakey, Texas. 

    To be honest, I wasn’t planning on traveling for the eclipse, but after interviewing Scott, I started to wonder if I’m missing out: He likens viewing an eclipse to some of his peak life experiences, nearly up there with witnessing childbirth. He’s seen four solar eclipses since he started photographing them as a young man, and now he’s a kind of eclipse evangelist. 

    Maybe you, like me, didn’t make plans to see the eclipse. Or maybe you’ve had your plans locked in since 2022. Either way, Scott has a nugget of wisdom for you, from how to view your first solar eclipse (hint: just enjoy it) to the reason we should all celebrate the sun’s rise every day. 

    He’s also an avid Airstreamer and has been traveling around the country in a 1968 Overlander named Barbara Jean after his travel-loving mom. He shared how he downsized to the Airstream lifestyle and how this kind of travel allows him freedom to follow his celestial obsessions. 

    Resources


    Meet this week’s guest


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2542 no     Replay: Here's How to Get the Best Sleep While Traveling https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked Unpacked, and host Aislyn Greene, are in Toronto this week! So we're resharing one of our most popular episodes from last season, because who doesn't need help sleeping from time to time? We’ve all been there: Tossing and turning on a long-haul flight, or in an unfamiliar hotel bed. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Enter Anne Bartolucci, a licensed psychologist and a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist. She’s the founder of Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services, P.C. and the author of Better Sleep for the Overachiever. In other words, she knows her sleep—and she specializes in helping people improve their sleep without medication.  In this week’s episode, host Aislyn Greene chats with Anne about the one thing everyone should bring on their next flight, the proper use of melatonin (turns out most of us don’t use it correctly), and yes, how to get a decent night’s sleep in a new destination.   Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Buy the neck pillow that AFAR editors swear by! (And go down our neck pillow rabbit hole.) Explore Anne’s work at the Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services, P.C. Buy Anne’s book, Better Sleep for the Overachiever, on Amazon or Bookshop, or listen to it via Amazon.  Meet this week’s guest Anne Bartolucci, a licensed psychologist and a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 07 Mar 2024 08:01:00 -0000 Replay: Here's How to Get the Best Sleep While Traveling full 3 8 Afar Unpacked, and host Aislyn Greene, are in Toronto this week! So we're resharing one of our most popular episodes from last season, because who doesn't need help sleeping from time to time? We’ve all been there: Tossing and turning on a long-haul flight, or in an unfamiliar hotel bed. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Enter Anne Bartolucci, a licensed psychologist and a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist. She’s the founder of Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services, P.C. and the author of Better Sleep for the Overachiever. In other words, she knows her sleep—and she specializes in helping people improve their sleep without medication.  In this week’s episode, host Aislyn Greene chats with Anne about the one thing everyone should bring on their next flight, the proper use of melatonin (turns out most of us don’t use it correctly), and yes, how to get a decent night’s sleep in a new destination.   Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Buy the neck pillow that AFAR editors swear by! (And go down our neck pillow rabbit hole.) Explore Anne’s work at the Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services, P.C. Buy Anne’s book, Better Sleep for the Overachiever, on Amazon or Bookshop, or listen to it via Amazon.  Meet this week’s guest Anne Bartolucci, a licensed psychologist and a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Unpacked, and host Aislyn Greene, are in Toronto this week! So we're resharing one of our most popular episodes from last season, because who doesn't need help sleeping from time to time?

    We’ve all been there: Tossing and turning on a long-haul flight, or in an unfamiliar hotel bed. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Enter Anne Bartolucci, a licensed psychologist and a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist. She’s the founder of Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services, P.C. and the author of Better Sleep for the Overachiever. In other words, she knows her sleep—and she specializes in helping people improve their sleep without medication. 

    In this week’s episode, host Aislyn Greene chats with Anne about the one thing everyone should bring on their next flight, the proper use of melatonin (turns out most of us don’t use it correctly), and yes, how to get a decent night’s sleep in a new destination.  

    Resources



    Meet this week’s guest


    • Anne Bartolucci, a licensed psychologist and a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist. 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2096 no     A Professional Decision Coach’s Secrets to Making Better Choices in Travel—and Beyond https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked Have you ever gotten stuck in indecision? Maybe it was around where to travel, or when to book your tickets, or even something as small as where to eat when you’re on the road. Well, this week’s guest is an expert at cutting through the noise and helping her clients—and now you—make fast, solid decisions. Her name is Nell McShane Wulfhart, and she’s a professional decision coach.  Does it sound like a made-up job? Nell is the first to admit that it is in fact a made-up job. But one that she is uniquely qualified for, especially when it comes to travel. I’ve known Nell for about a decade now—as a travel writer. She has lived all around the world, from South Korea to Uruguay to Switzerland. A couple of months ago, I got an email from Nell about her new Audible podcast, The Decision Coach. And I learned that for the past decade, she has also been (in her words) a “professional bossy boots.” That means that she sits down with clients who are stuck and helps them get unstuck. Some are chronically indecisive and need help getting out of that rut. Others are usually good decision makers but are stuck on a big life decision, like whether to have a baby, or take a new job, or move to a new country.  So I sat down with Nell to talk about how she makes decisions, how we can make better decisions, and how we can apply all of that to travel. Meet this week’s guest Nell McShane Wulfhart, podcaster and travel writer Resources Read a full transcript of the episode.  Listen to Nell’s podcast, The Decision Coach. Check out her website for tips on making decisions and to sign up for her newsletter.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:01:00 -0000 A Professional Decision Coach’s Secrets to Making Better Choices in Travel—and Beyond full 3 7 Afar Have you ever gotten stuck in indecision? Maybe it was around where to travel, or when to book your tickets, or even something as small as where to eat when you’re on the road. Well, this week’s guest is an expert at cutting through the noise and helping her clients—and now you—make fast, solid decisions. Her name is Nell McShane Wulfhart, and she’s a professional decision coach.  Does it sound like a made-up job? Nell is the first to admit that it is in fact a made-up job. But one that she is uniquely qualified for, especially when it comes to travel. I’ve known Nell for about a decade now—as a travel writer. She has lived all around the world, from South Korea to Uruguay to Switzerland. A couple of months ago, I got an email from Nell about her new Audible podcast, The Decision Coach. And I learned that for the past decade, she has also been (in her words) a “professional bossy boots.” That means that she sits down with clients who are stuck and helps them get unstuck. Some are chronically indecisive and need help getting out of that rut. Others are usually good decision makers but are stuck on a big life decision, like whether to have a baby, or take a new job, or move to a new country.  So I sat down with Nell to talk about how she makes decisions, how we can make better decisions, and how we can apply all of that to travel. Meet this week’s guest Nell McShane Wulfhart, podcaster and travel writer Resources Read a full transcript of the episode.  Listen to Nell’s podcast, The Decision Coach. Check out her website for tips on making decisions and to sign up for her newsletter.  Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Have you ever gotten stuck in indecision? Maybe it was around where to travel, or when to book your tickets, or even something as small as where to eat when you’re on the road. Well, this week’s guest is an expert at cutting through the noise and helping her clients—and now you—make fast, solid decisions. Her name is Nell McShane Wulfhart, and she’s a professional decision coach. 

    Does it sound like a made-up job? Nell is the first to admit that it is in fact a made-up job. But one that she is uniquely qualified for, especially when it comes to travel. I’ve known Nell for about a decade now—as a travel writer. She has lived all around the world, from South Korea to Uruguay to Switzerland.

    A couple of months ago, I got an email from Nell about her new Audible podcast, The Decision Coach. And I learned that for the past decade, she has also been (in her words) a “professional bossy boots.” That means that she sits down with clients who are stuck and helps them get unstuck. Some are chronically indecisive and need help getting out of that rut. Others are usually good decision makers but are stuck on a big life decision, like whether to have a baby, or take a new job, or move to a new country. 

    So I sat down with Nell to talk about how she makes decisions, how we can make better decisions, and how we can apply all of that to travel.

    Meet this week’s guest

    • Nell McShane Wulfhart, podcaster and travel writer


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2097 no     How to Budget for Travel, No Matter Your Income https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked Money is often a taboo subject in our culture, but it has a huge impact on our lives, our futures, and yes, our travels. Danielle Desir Corbett—our guest this week—works to dispel myths and encourage transparency on her podcast, The Thought Card, and her website, thoughtcard.com, where she even posts breakdowns for the many trips she's taken. In the episode, she shares her annual travel budget, her tips on budgeting in a way that is in alignment with what you truly value, and tools that can help you navigate finances without getting totally bogged down. Best yet: She’s found that by using these tools over the years, she’s been able to travel more than ever before—and still accomplish her financial goals.  Meet this week’s guest Danielle Desir Corbett, podcaster and author  Resources Read a full transcript of the episode.  Listen to Danielle’s podcast, The Thought Card. Check out her website for tips on personal finance and travel, plus posts about trip costs around the world. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 22 Feb 2024 08:01:00 -0000 How to Budget for Travel, No Matter Your Income full 3 6 Afar Money is often a taboo subject in our culture, but it has a huge impact on our lives, our futures, and yes, our travels. Danielle Desir Corbett—our guest this week—works to dispel myths and encourage transparency on her podcast, The Thought Card, and her website, thoughtcard.com, where she even posts breakdowns for the many trips she's taken. In the episode, she shares her annual travel budget, her tips on budgeting in a way that is in alignment with what you truly value, and tools that can help you navigate finances without getting totally bogged down. Best yet: She’s found that by using these tools over the years, she’s been able to travel more than ever before—and still accomplish her financial goals.  Meet this week’s guest Danielle Desir Corbett, podcaster and author  Resources Read a full transcript of the episode.  Listen to Danielle’s podcast, The Thought Card. Check out her website for tips on personal finance and travel, plus posts about trip costs around the world. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Money is often a taboo subject in our culture, but it has a huge impact on our lives, our futures, and yes, our travels. Danielle Desir Corbett—our guest this week—works to dispel myths and encourage transparency on her podcast, The Thought Card, and her website, thoughtcard.com, where she even posts breakdowns for the many trips she's taken. In the episode, she shares her annual travel budget, her tips on budgeting in a way that is in alignment with what you truly value, and tools that can help you navigate finances without getting totally bogged down. Best yet: She’s found that by using these tools over the years, she’s been able to travel more than ever before—and still accomplish her financial goals. 


    Meet this week’s guest


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2667 no     Unpacking Albuquerque https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked In season three of Unpacked, we're introducing "Unpacking," a series that explores some of our favorite destinations around the world. First up: Albuquerque, land of hot air balloons, chiles, and some fantastic outdoor spaces. Join host Aislyn Greene as she unpacks the Southwestern city's outdoorsy roots. Meet this week’s guests Sarah Sheasley, director of marketing for Los Poblanos Elaine Briseño, journalist and historian  Terry Brunner, the Director of the city of Albuquerque’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency Justin de la Rosa, a local food writer and director of outlets for the Sawmill Market Dylan Storment, director of wine and spirits at Los Poblanos Missy Begay, cofounder of Bow & Arrow Brewing  Bill Stimmel, the entrepreneurial director at Indian Pueblo Cultural Center Murray Conrad, hot air balloon pilot and owner of World Balloon My Albuquerque itinerary Where I ate, stayed, and played. Hotels Book a stay at Los Poblanos Book a stay at Hotel Chaco Restaurants El Patio Mesa Provisions Coda Bakery Campo at Los Poblanos Level 5 at Hotel Chaco Farm & Table Bow & Arrow Brewing  Old Town Farm Activities Take a bike and taco tour with Routes Tour the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center Visit the Paseo del Bosque Take a tram up Sandia Peak Fly with World Balloon If you want to hear more of the flamenco episode you hear at the top of the episode, see a show at Tablao Flamenco Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 15 Feb 2024 08:01:00 -0000 Unpacking Albuquerque full 3 5 Afar In season three of Unpacked, we're introducing "Unpacking," a series that explores some of our favorite destinations around the world. First up: Albuquerque, land of hot air balloons, chiles, and some fantastic outdoor spaces. Join host Aislyn Greene as she unpacks the Southwestern city's outdoorsy roots. Meet this week’s guests Sarah Sheasley, director of marketing for Los Poblanos Elaine Briseño, journalist and historian  Terry Brunner, the Director of the city of Albuquerque’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency Justin de la Rosa, a local food writer and director of outlets for the Sawmill Market Dylan Storment, director of wine and spirits at Los Poblanos Missy Begay, cofounder of Bow & Arrow Brewing  Bill Stimmel, the entrepreneurial director at Indian Pueblo Cultural Center Murray Conrad, hot air balloon pilot and owner of World Balloon My Albuquerque itinerary Where I ate, stayed, and played. Hotels Book a stay at Los Poblanos Book a stay at Hotel Chaco Restaurants El Patio Mesa Provisions Coda Bakery Campo at Los Poblanos Level 5 at Hotel Chaco Farm & Table Bow & Arrow Brewing  Old Town Farm Activities Take a bike and taco tour with Routes Tour the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center Visit the Paseo del Bosque Take a tram up Sandia Peak Fly with World Balloon If you want to hear more of the flamenco episode you hear at the top of the episode, see a show at Tablao Flamenco Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In season three of Unpacked, we're introducing "Unpacking," a series that explores some of our favorite destinations around the world. First up: Albuquerque, land of hot air balloons, chiles, and some fantastic outdoor spaces. Join host Aislyn Greene as she unpacks the Southwestern city's outdoorsy roots.

    Meet this week’s guests


    My Albuquerque itinerary

    Where I ate, stayed, and played.

    Hotels


    Restaurants


    Activities


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2051 no     At This London Tour Company, Formerly Unhoused People Are Your Guides https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked The issue of homelessness—or being unhoused, or facing housing scarcity—isn’t something we often talk about when it comes to travel, unless it’s in a negative sense. In this episode, however, we’re going to meet a London-based tour company that’s working on bringing homelessness into the tourism narrative.  It’s called Unseen Tours, a nonprofit founded in 2010 by Jayni Gudka. It offers London tours that touch on many of the city’s most popular sites and neighborhoods—Soho, King’s Cross—with a twist: They’re led by individuals who were once homeless. But the tours are not poverty tourism. They’re history-rich, city-focused walking excursions led by people with a very special kind of knowledge. Meet this week’s guests Rachel Parsons, journalist Nic Shaw, guide with Unseen Tours Jayni Gudka, CEO of Unseen Tours Resources Read a full transcript of the episode.  Book a tour with Unseen Tours. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:01:00 -0000 At This London Tour Company, Formerly Unhoused People Are Your Guides full 3 4 Afar The issue of homelessness—or being unhoused, or facing housing scarcity—isn’t something we often talk about when it comes to travel, unless it’s in a negative sense. In this episode, however, we’re going to meet a London-based tour company that’s working on bringing homelessness into the tourism narrative.  It’s called Unseen Tours, a nonprofit founded in 2010 by Jayni Gudka. It offers London tours that touch on many of the city’s most popular sites and neighborhoods—Soho, King’s Cross—with a twist: They’re led by individuals who were once homeless. But the tours are not poverty tourism. They’re history-rich, city-focused walking excursions led by people with a very special kind of knowledge. Meet this week’s guests Rachel Parsons, journalist Nic Shaw, guide with Unseen Tours Jayni Gudka, CEO of Unseen Tours Resources Read a full transcript of the episode.  Book a tour with Unseen Tours. Follow the podcast to ensure you don’t miss an episode.  Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The issue of homelessness—or being unhoused, or facing housing scarcity—isn’t something we often talk about when it comes to travel, unless it’s in a negative sense. In this episode, however, we’re going to meet a London-based tour company that’s working on bringing homelessness into the tourism narrative. 

    It’s called Unseen Tours, a nonprofit founded in 2010 by Jayni Gudka. It offers London tours that touch on many of the city’s most popular sites and neighborhoods—Soho, King’s Cross—with a twist: They’re led by individuals who were once homeless. But the tours are not poverty tourism. They’re history-rich, city-focused walking excursions led by people with a very special kind of knowledge.

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1716 yes     You Can Get Free Flights and Hotel Stays Easier Than You Think. Here’s How. https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked The world of travel loyalty programs is . . . complicated. Last year, Delta made waves when it announced that it was making radical changes to its SkyMiles program. People very quickly—and this is the technical term—freaked the eff out. So, Delta swiftly (and wisely) backpedaled.  But as I learned from this week’s expert, Paul Rubio, this isn’t the only airline that has made less-than-positive changes. Delta just took the heat. Drama! It’s just the first of many (many) things related to travel loyalty programs that we'll learn about from Paul, a points and miles wizard. You may remember him from season two, when he shared his vast knowledge about the world of travel credit cards. And in today’s episode, he does the same for airline and hotel loyalty programs.  We start off exploring why it’s worth joining these programs—and it definitely is, and it definitely doesn’t have to take up your whole life—and which programs are best for both airline and hotel points. Then we dive deeper into how to maximize them, and how best to use them, including when you should buy points and when you should not.  It’s a pretty complex topic, but Paul has done all the legwork so that we don’t have to—as you can tell by the very long list of resources below. Meet this week's guest: Paul Rubio, points and miles expert. Resources The recent changes to American Airlines' reward program. The recent changes to Southwest's reward program. The recent changes to United's reward program. Delta's amended changes to its award program. Paul's Tumi and Rimowa suitcase reviews. Our guide to the World of Hyatt program. How and when to buy points for hotels. When to buy points for airlines. How to get VIP rewards for credit cards. How to use loyalty points for charitable donations. How to use Points.Me. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 01 Feb 2024 08:01:00 -0000 You Can Get Free Flights and Hotel Stays Easier Than You Think. Here’s How. full 3 3 Afar The world of travel loyalty programs is . . . complicated. Last year, Delta made waves when it announced that it was making radical changes to its SkyMiles program. People very quickly—and this is the technical term—freaked the eff out. So, Delta swiftly (and wisely) backpedaled.  But as I learned from this week’s expert, Paul Rubio, this isn’t the only airline that has made less-than-positive changes. Delta just took the heat. Drama! It’s just the first of many (many) things related to travel loyalty programs that we'll learn about from Paul, a points and miles wizard. You may remember him from season two, when he shared his vast knowledge about the world of travel credit cards. And in today’s episode, he does the same for airline and hotel loyalty programs.  We start off exploring why it’s worth joining these programs—and it definitely is, and it definitely doesn’t have to take up your whole life—and which programs are best for both airline and hotel points. Then we dive deeper into how to maximize them, and how best to use them, including when you should buy points and when you should not.  It’s a pretty complex topic, but Paul has done all the legwork so that we don’t have to—as you can tell by the very long list of resources below. Meet this week's guest: Paul Rubio, points and miles expert. Resources The recent changes to American Airlines' reward program. The recent changes to Southwest's reward program. The recent changes to United's reward program. Delta's amended changes to its award program. Paul's Tumi and Rimowa suitcase reviews. Our guide to the World of Hyatt program. How and when to buy points for hotels. When to buy points for airlines. How to get VIP rewards for credit cards. How to use loyalty points for charitable donations. How to use Points.Me. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The world of travel loyalty programs is . . . complicated. Last year, Delta made waves when it announced that it was making radical changes to its SkyMiles program. People very quickly—and this is the technical term—freaked the eff out. So, Delta swiftly (and wisely) backpedaled. 

    But as I learned from this week’s expert, Paul Rubio, this isn’t the only airline that has made less-than-positive changes. Delta just took the heat. Drama! It’s just the first of many (many) things related to travel loyalty programs that we'll learn about from Paul, a points and miles wizard. You may remember him from season two, when he shared his vast knowledge about the world of travel credit cards. And in today’s episode, he does the same for airline and hotel loyalty programs. 

    We start off exploring why it’s worth joining these programs—and it definitely is, and it definitely doesn’t have to take up your whole life—and which programs are best for both airline and hotel points. Then we dive deeper into how to maximize them, and how best to use them, including when you should buy points and when you should not. 

    It’s a pretty complex topic, but Paul has done all the legwork so that we don’t have to—as you can tell by the very long list of resources below.


    Meet this week's guest: Paul Rubio, points and miles expert.

    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3176 no     Where to Cruise This Year—Even if You Think You're Not a Cruiser https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked There’s a special magic to being at sea. Watching a port retreat as a ship begins to sail, the sensation of gently (or not so gently) rocking waves, the expansiveness of open water. This week’s episode is all about that magic, whether you would label yourself a “cruiser” or not. To get the scoop on the high seas, we’re hearing from Fran Golden, who covers the cruise world for AFAR. Fran is a bonafide cruise expert. She’s been on more than 170 ships (at times, she’s taken up to 12 cruises a year), she’s written several books on cruising, and she loves every minute of it.  She shares her favorite itineraries for 2024 (including a sail along the western coast of Africa), the best cruise lines for every traveler (from small, casual sailboats to luxurious ocean liners), and tips and tricks for finding a good deal, even if you’re a solo traveler.  There are plenty of surprises, too: Fran gets seasick, for one. So she has excellent advice for anyone who goes green around the gills at the thought of stepping on a ship. And she talks a lot about sustainability, which is a key focus for the cruise industry right now, and for us here at AFAR. Meet this week’s guest Fran Golden, cruise expert Resources Explore Fran’s cruise stories on AFAR.com. Follow Fran on Instagram. Read the transcript of the episode. Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 25 Jan 2024 08:01:00 -0000 Where to Cruise This Year—Even if You Think You're Not a Cruiser full 3 2 Afar There’s a special magic to being at sea. Watching a port retreat as a ship begins to sail, the sensation of gently (or not so gently) rocking waves, the expansiveness of open water. This week’s episode is all about that magic, whether you would label yourself a “cruiser” or not. To get the scoop on the high seas, we’re hearing from Fran Golden, who covers the cruise world for AFAR. Fran is a bonafide cruise expert. She’s been on more than 170 ships (at times, she’s taken up to 12 cruises a year), she’s written several books on cruising, and she loves every minute of it.  She shares her favorite itineraries for 2024 (including a sail along the western coast of Africa), the best cruise lines for every traveler (from small, casual sailboats to luxurious ocean liners), and tips and tricks for finding a good deal, even if you’re a solo traveler.  There are plenty of surprises, too: Fran gets seasick, for one. So she has excellent advice for anyone who goes green around the gills at the thought of stepping on a ship. And she talks a lot about sustainability, which is a key focus for the cruise industry right now, and for us here at AFAR. Meet this week’s guest Fran Golden, cruise expert Resources Explore Fran’s cruise stories on AFAR.com. Follow Fran on Instagram. Read the transcript of the episode. Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for a full video of the conversation. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices There’s a special magic to being at sea. Watching a port retreat as a ship begins to sail, the sensation of gently (or not so gently) rocking waves, the expansiveness of open water. This week’s episode is all about that magic, whether you would label yourself a “cruiser” or not.

    To get the scoop on the high seas, we’re hearing from Fran Golden, who covers the cruise world for AFAR. Fran is a bonafide cruise expert. She’s been on more than 170 ships (at times, she’s taken up to 12 cruises a year), she’s written several books on cruising, and she loves every minute of it. 

    She shares her favorite itineraries for 2024 (including a sail along the western coast of Africa), the best cruise lines for every traveler (from small, casual sailboats to luxurious ocean liners), and tips and tricks for finding a good deal, even if you’re a solo traveler. 

    There are plenty of surprises, too: Fran gets seasick, for one. So she has excellent advice for anyone who goes green around the gills at the thought of stepping on a ship. And she talks a lot about sustainability, which is a key focus for the cruise industry right now, and for us here at AFAR.

    Meet this week’s guest

    • Fran Golden, cruise expert


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3145 no     The 25 Most Exciting Places to Travel in 2024 https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked We're three weeks into the new year. Maybe you're a freshly minted, idealized version of yourself. Or maybe your new year's resolutions are as distant as the icebergs of Antarctica. But no matter what your life looks like, there's one thing you can count on: travel. And today, we're going to talk about the best places to travel this year, whether you want to chase eclipses, drink Uruguayan wine, or discover the coolest cities in Europe. Every year, AFAR puts out an annual "Where to Go" list in the magazine and online. And this year is no exception. From the peat bogs of Estonia to the kite festivals of Weifang, China, to the waters of Fiji, this year's list of 25 places is robust, thoughtful, and deeply inspiring. (Not that we're biased or anything . . . . ) In this episode, the three editors who helped craft the list join host Aislyn Greene to talk about how and why they chose the places on the list, which ones they have personally visited, and their predictions for the year ahead. Meet this week’s guests Sarika Bansal, AFAR editorial director Billie Cohen, AFAR executive editor Tim Chester, AFAR deputy editor Resources Explore all 25 destinations on our “Where to Go in 2024” list. Read the transcript of the episode. Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for our *brand new* podcast videos. Read our local's guide to Toronto. Check our Toronto guide. Listen to our episode about travel insurance. Explore our feature story about Oman. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 18 Jan 2024 08:01:00 -0000 The 25 Most Exciting Places to Travel in 2024 full 3 1 Afar We're three weeks into the new year. Maybe you're a freshly minted, idealized version of yourself. Or maybe your new year's resolutions are as distant as the icebergs of Antarctica. But no matter what your life looks like, there's one thing you can count on: travel. And today, we're going to talk about the best places to travel this year, whether you want to chase eclipses, drink Uruguayan wine, or discover the coolest cities in Europe. Every year, AFAR puts out an annual "Where to Go" list in the magazine and online. And this year is no exception. From the peat bogs of Estonia to the kite festivals of Weifang, China, to the waters of Fiji, this year's list of 25 places is robust, thoughtful, and deeply inspiring. (Not that we're biased or anything . . . . ) In this episode, the three editors who helped craft the list join host Aislyn Greene to talk about how and why they chose the places on the list, which ones they have personally visited, and their predictions for the year ahead. Meet this week’s guests Sarika Bansal, AFAR editorial director Billie Cohen, AFAR executive editor Tim Chester, AFAR deputy editor Resources Explore all 25 destinations on our “Where to Go in 2024” list. Read the transcript of the episode. Subscribe to AFAR’s YouTube channel for our *brand new* podcast videos. Read our local's guide to Toronto. Check our Toronto guide. Listen to our episode about travel insurance. Explore our feature story about Oman. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We're three weeks into the new year. Maybe you're a freshly minted, idealized version of yourself. Or maybe your new year's resolutions are as distant as the icebergs of Antarctica. But no matter what your life looks like, there's one thing you can count on: travel. And today, we're going to talk about the best places to travel this year, whether you want to chase eclipses, drink Uruguayan wine, or discover the coolest cities in Europe.

    Every year, AFAR puts out an annual "Where to Go" list in the magazine and online. And this year is no exception. From the peat bogs of Estonia to the kite festivals of Weifang, China, to the waters of Fiji, this year's list of 25 places is robust, thoughtful, and deeply inspiring. (Not that we're biased or anything . . . . )

    In this episode, the three editors who helped craft the list join host Aislyn Greene to talk about how and why they chose the places on the list, which ones they have personally visited, and their predictions for the year ahead.


    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3200 no     Unpacked Returns: A Bigger, Brighter World Awaits https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked It's a fresh new year! And we all know that this also means that there's a fresh year of travel to plan, discoveries to be made, and adventures to be had. And Unpacked by AFAR is here for you every step of the way. AFAR editors will share the places they're dreaming of visiting this year. A cruise expert will unveil the best places to cruise in 2024, as well as the best cruise lines to sail with, even if you're not a cruiser. (And a little hint: These companies are more sustainable than ever.) We'll reveal the best ways to use and accrue air and hotel rewards, how to build a travel budget, deal with awkward plane encounters, and so much more. And this season on Unpacked by AFAR, we're going farther than ever (literally) in our new series "Unpacking." Host Aislyn Greene is visiting some of our favorite places in the world and reporting back, meeting with the locals who define these places and sharing tips on how to best explore them. So join us every Thursday beginning January 18th. Because the travel world is complicated. We're here to help you unpack it. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales by AFAR, a series of first-person stories about the trips that change our lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 04 Jan 2024 08:01:00 -0000 Unpacked Returns: A Bigger, Brighter World Awaits trailer 3 Afar It's a fresh new year! And we all know that this also means that there's a fresh year of travel to plan, discoveries to be made, and adventures to be had. And Unpacked by AFAR is here for you every step of the way. AFAR editors will share the places they're dreaming of visiting this year. A cruise expert will unveil the best places to cruise in 2024, as well as the best cruise lines to sail with, even if you're not a cruiser. (And a little hint: These companies are more sustainable than ever.) We'll reveal the best ways to use and accrue air and hotel rewards, how to build a travel budget, deal with awkward plane encounters, and so much more. And this season on Unpacked by AFAR, we're going farther than ever (literally) in our new series "Unpacking." Host Aislyn Greene is visiting some of our favorite places in the world and reporting back, meeting with the locals who define these places and sharing tips on how to best explore them. So join us every Thursday beginning January 18th. Because the travel world is complicated. We're here to help you unpack it. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales by AFAR, a series of first-person stories about the trips that change our lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's a fresh new year! And we all know that this also means that there's a fresh year of travel to plan, discoveries to be made, and adventures to be had. And Unpacked by AFAR is here for you every step of the way. AFAR editors will share the places they're dreaming of visiting this year. A cruise expert will unveil the best places to cruise in 2024, as well as the best cruise lines to sail with, even if you're not a cruiser. (And a little hint: These companies are more sustainable than ever.) We'll reveal the best ways to use and accrue air and hotel rewards, how to build a travel budget, deal with awkward plane encounters, and so much more.

    And this season on Unpacked by AFAR, we're going farther than ever (literally) in our new series "Unpacking." Host Aislyn Greene is visiting some of our favorite places in the world and reporting back, meeting with the locals who define these places and sharing tips on how to best explore them.

    So join us every Thursday beginning January 18th. Because the travel world is complicated. We're here to help you unpack it.

    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales by AFAR, a series of first-person stories about the trips that change our lives.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     123 no     Where to Travel This Winter https://www.afar.com/podcasts Winter is coming. (But not in a threatening, Game of Thrones-y kind of way.) So this week on Unpacked, AFAR’s mighty destination team is helping you prepare. We talk dreamy winter destinations, how to repurpose winter gear, the best time to fly during the holidays, and so much more. Meet this week’s guests Mark Ellwood, freelance travel writer Chloe Arrojado, associate destinations editor Tim Chester, deputy destinations editor Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Explore our ideas for where to go in November.  And explore our ideas for where to go in December. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 28 Sep 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Where to Travel This Winter full 2 34 Afar Winter is coming. (But not in a threatening, Game of Thrones-y kind of way.) So this week on Unpacked, AFAR’s mighty destination team is helping you prepare. We talk dreamy winter destinations, how to repurpose winter gear, the best time to fly during the holidays, and so much more. Meet this week’s guests Mark Ellwood, freelance travel writer Chloe Arrojado, associate destinations editor Tim Chester, deputy destinations editor Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Explore our ideas for where to go in November.  And explore our ideas for where to go in December. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Winter is coming. (But not in a threatening, Game of Thrones-y kind of way.) So this week on Unpacked, AFAR’s mighty destination team is helping you prepare. We talk dreamy winter destinations, how to repurpose winter gear, the best time to fly during the holidays, and so much more.

    Meet this week’s guests

    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3275 no     Being a Person With Dwarfism Has Never Stopped Me From Exploring the World https://www.afar.com/podcasts Christophe Zajac-Denek is an actor, a podcaster, a traveler—and he’s 4 feet 4 inches tall. On this week’s episode of Unpacked, he shares how being a person with dwarfism has never stopped him from exploring the world. Meet this week’s guests Nicolle (Nikki) Galteland, Unpacked producer Christophe Zajac-Denek, actor, surfer, and podcast host Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to Christophe’s podcast, I’m Kind of a Big Deal. Watch Christophe's documentary, Standing on Water, about surfing and dwarfism, which was just awarded "best short" at the Jersey Surf Film Festival. Listen to Nikki's podcast, Looters, a sci-fi western role-playing podcast. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 21 Sep 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Being a Person With Dwarfism Has Never Stopped Me From Exploring the World full 2 33 Afar Christophe Zajac-Denek is an actor, a podcaster, a traveler—and he’s 4 feet 4 inches tall. On this week’s episode of Unpacked, he shares how being a person with dwarfism has never stopped him from exploring the world. Meet this week’s guests Nicolle (Nikki) Galteland, Unpacked producer Christophe Zajac-Denek, actor, surfer, and podcast host Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to Christophe’s podcast, I’m Kind of a Big Deal. Watch Christophe's documentary, Standing on Water, about surfing and dwarfism, which was just awarded "best short" at the Jersey Surf Film Festival. Listen to Nikki's podcast, Looters, a sci-fi western role-playing podcast. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Christophe Zajac-Denek is an actor, a podcaster, a traveler—and he’s 4 feet 4 inches tall. On this week’s episode of Unpacked, he shares how being a person with dwarfism has never stopped him from exploring the world.

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources

    • Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode.
    • Listen to Christophe’s podcast, I’m Kind of a Big Deal.
    • Watch Christophe's documentary, Standing on Water, about surfing and dwarfism, which was just awarded "best short" at the Jersey Surf Film Festival.
    • Listen to Nikki's podcast, Looters, a sci-fi western role-playing podcast.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2194 no     How Maps Reveal the Secrets of our World https://www.afar.com/podcasts You may use Google Maps every day, but how often do you think about how that map was made—and more importantly, who made it? In today’s episode of Unpacked, we do just that. You’ll never again look at a map the same way. Meet this week’s guests Billie Cohen, AFAR executive editor Evan Applegate, editorial cartographer  Clinton Johnson, Antiracist Geospatial Architect Dr. Atyia Martin, executive director of a nonprofit called Next Development Leadership (among many other things) Cymone Davis, former town manager of Tullahassee, Oklahoma, the oldest historically Black town in Oklahoma. Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to Evan’s podcast, Very Expensive Maps, and check out the maps he makes. See Clinton's National Geographic Explorer award. Explore Cymone and Dr. Martin’s Black Towns & Settlements Project. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. And a special thanks to our September sponsor, Explore Asheville. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 14 Sep 2023 07:01:00 -0000 How Maps Reveal the Secrets of our World full 2 32 Afar You may use Google Maps every day, but how often do you think about how that map was made—and more importantly, who made it? In today’s episode of Unpacked, we do just that. You’ll never again look at a map the same way. Meet this week’s guests Billie Cohen, AFAR executive editor Evan Applegate, editorial cartographer  Clinton Johnson, Antiracist Geospatial Architect Dr. Atyia Martin, executive director of a nonprofit called Next Development Leadership (among many other things) Cymone Davis, former town manager of Tullahassee, Oklahoma, the oldest historically Black town in Oklahoma. Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to Evan’s podcast, Very Expensive Maps, and check out the maps he makes. See Clinton's National Geographic Explorer award. Explore Cymone and Dr. Martin’s Black Towns & Settlements Project. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. And a special thanks to our September sponsor, Explore Asheville. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices You may use Google Maps every day, but how often do you think about how that map was made—and more importantly, who made it? In today’s episode of Unpacked, we do just that. You’ll never again look at a map the same way.

    Meet this week’s guests

    • Billie Cohen, AFAR executive editor
    • Evan Applegate, editorial cartographer 
    • Clinton Johnson, Antiracist Geospatial Architect
    • Dr. Atyia Martin, executive director of a nonprofit called Next Development Leadership (among many other things)
    • Cymone Davis, former town manager of Tullahassee, Oklahoma, the oldest historically Black town in Oklahoma.


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    And a special thanks to our September sponsor, Explore Asheville.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2669 no     Can a Pledge Really Help Cure “Bad Tourists”? https://www.afar.com/podcasts If you’ve been following the news, it’s been a summer of “bad tourists.” There was the woman who carved her initials into the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the drunk Brits, ahem, leaving their marks around Amsterdam. Of course, these are just the travelers who rise to the top—most people would never think of behaving this way on a trip. (Right??) Still, it feels like the right time to explore a tool that’s trying to curb this bad behavior: the “travel better” pledge. If you haven’t heard of them, or signed one, essentially, a travel pledge is a promise that a traveler makes to follow a certain set of guidelines set out by the host community. Countries around the world, from Iceland to Palau, have launched pledges, which travelers can sign and share on social media.  The idea is to encourage people to think more about a place and its vulnerabilities, its values, and its needs, before a visit. Some pledges require a fee, and the money is funneled towards a particular cause, while others offer volunteer opportunities or help visitors tap into the ethics of a place. But in the end, they’re just ... words. And how effective can those words be, really?  That’s the question that AFAR deputy editor Tim Chester, our guide for this week’s episode, asked himself recently. Tim signed his first pledge last year, during a trip to an Indigenous community that has been highly impacted by the world. After returning home, he did a little digging and found that this pledge was part of a larger movement in travel.  Meet this week’s guests Adora Nobuo, the program coordinator for the Friends of the Palau National Marine Sanctuary Rebecca Ingram, the chief executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa Ben Lynam, head of communications for the Travel Foundation, a nonprofit based in the UK Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read (and sign) Palau’s pledge. Watch New Zealand’s pledge video. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 07 Sep 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Can a Pledge Really Help Cure “Bad Tourists”? full 2 31 Afar If you’ve been following the news, it’s been a summer of “bad tourists.” There was the woman who carved her initials into the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the drunk Brits, ahem, leaving their marks around Amsterdam. Of course, these are just the travelers who rise to the top—most people would never think of behaving this way on a trip. (Right??) Still, it feels like the right time to explore a tool that’s trying to curb this bad behavior: the “travel better” pledge. If you haven’t heard of them, or signed one, essentially, a travel pledge is a promise that a traveler makes to follow a certain set of guidelines set out by the host community. Countries around the world, from Iceland to Palau, have launched pledges, which travelers can sign and share on social media.  The idea is to encourage people to think more about a place and its vulnerabilities, its values, and its needs, before a visit. Some pledges require a fee, and the money is funneled towards a particular cause, while others offer volunteer opportunities or help visitors tap into the ethics of a place. But in the end, they’re just ... words. And how effective can those words be, really?  That’s the question that AFAR deputy editor Tim Chester, our guide for this week’s episode, asked himself recently. Tim signed his first pledge last year, during a trip to an Indigenous community that has been highly impacted by the world. After returning home, he did a little digging and found that this pledge was part of a larger movement in travel.  Meet this week’s guests Adora Nobuo, the program coordinator for the Friends of the Palau National Marine Sanctuary Rebecca Ingram, the chief executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa Ben Lynam, head of communications for the Travel Foundation, a nonprofit based in the UK Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read (and sign) Palau’s pledge. Watch New Zealand’s pledge video. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices If you’ve been following the news, it’s been a summer of “bad tourists.” There was the woman who carved her initials into the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the drunk Brits, ahem, leaving their marks around Amsterdam. Of course, these are just the travelers who rise to the top—most people would never think of behaving this way on a trip. (Right??)

    Still, it feels like the right time to explore a tool that’s trying to curb this bad behavior: the “travel better” pledge. If you haven’t heard of them, or signed one, essentially, a travel pledge is a promise that a traveler makes to follow a certain set of guidelines set out by the host community. Countries around the world, from Iceland to Palau, have launched pledges, which travelers can sign and share on social media. 

    The idea is to encourage people to think more about a place and its vulnerabilities, its values, and its needs, before a visit. Some pledges require a fee, and the money is funneled towards a particular cause, while others offer volunteer opportunities or help visitors tap into the ethics of a place. But in the end, they’re just ... words. And how effective can those words be, really? 

    That’s the question that AFAR deputy editor Tim Chester, our guide for this week’s episode, asked himself recently. Tim signed his first pledge last year, during a trip to an Indigenous community that has been highly impacted by the world. After returning home, he did a little digging and found that this pledge was part of a larger movement in travel. 

    Meet this week’s guests

    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1417 no     Think Travel Insurance Is Boring? Prepare to Be Dazzled (or Just Financially Protected). Travel insurance: It's not the sexiest subject, is it? And yet, it can play a huge role in saving you money, time, and even sanity. In this episode of Unpacked by AFAR, we speak with five experts to help you understand how to decided if and when you need insurance, the different types of policies you can buy, and how to use travel insurance if something goes wrong on your trip. Meet this week’s guests Wendy Perrin, travel expert Christina Tunnah, general manager of marketing and brands for World Nomads Beth Godlin, President of Aon Affinity Travel Practice John Gobbels, vice president and COO of Medjet Nick Cavanaugh, founder and CEO of Sensible Weather Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read our primer on travel insurance.  Explore Wendy Perrin’s website.  Use sites like travelinsurance.com or insuremytrip.com to help you decide on the right policy.  Learn more about World Nomads. Discover more about Aon Affinity Travel Services. Learn more about Medjet. Find out more about Sensible Weather. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 31 Aug 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Think Travel Insurance Is Boring? Prepare to Be Dazzled (or Just Financially Protected). full 2 30 Afar Travel insurance: It's not the sexiest subject, is it? And yet, it can play a huge role in saving you money, time, and even sanity. In this episode of Unpacked by AFAR, we speak with five experts to help you understand how to decided if and when you need insurance, the different types of policies you can buy, and how to use travel insurance if something goes wrong on your trip. Meet this week’s guests Wendy Perrin, travel expert Christina Tunnah, general manager of marketing and brands for World Nomads Beth Godlin, President of Aon Affinity Travel Practice John Gobbels, vice president and COO of Medjet Nick Cavanaugh, founder and CEO of Sensible Weather Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read our primer on travel insurance.  Explore Wendy Perrin’s website.  Use sites like travelinsurance.com or insuremytrip.com to help you decide on the right policy.  Learn more about World Nomads. Discover more about Aon Affinity Travel Services. Learn more about Medjet. Find out more about Sensible Weather. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Travel insurance: It's not the sexiest subject, is it? And yet, it can play a huge role in saving you money, time, and even sanity. In this episode of Unpacked by AFAR, we speak with five experts to help you understand how to decided if and when you need insurance, the different types of policies you can buy, and how to use travel insurance if something goes wrong on your trip.

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources

    Find out more about Sensible Weather.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2334 no     A Skeptic's Guide to Birdwatching https://www.afar.com/podcasts Have you ever considered birdwatching? If the answer is a "heck, no"—or even a "not really"—than this episode is for you. Host Aislyn Greene, also a birdwatching skeptic, dives deep into the world of birding to discover how to do it well, the equipment you need, and most importantly why to give this sport (yes, it's a sport!) a shot. Meet this week’s guests Dominik Mosur, animal care specialist at the Randall Museum and birding tour guide Kara Cook, rooftop biologist for Audubon Florida Aunt Cheryl, Aislyn’s bird-loving aunt Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Find a bird tour around the world. Find a field guide for your region—here’s a California example. Download the Merlin app and the eBird app Discover your local Audubon chapter.  Don't forget to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic. And a special thanks to our August sponsor, the Austrian Tourist Office. To learn more about the Bregenzerwald region, a collection of 23 villages deep in Austria’s western Alps, visit afar.com/austria-nature. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 24 Aug 2023 13:55:00 -0000 A Skeptic's Guide to Birdwatching full 2 29 Afar Have you ever considered birdwatching? If the answer is a "heck, no"—or even a "not really"—than this episode is for you. Host Aislyn Greene, also a birdwatching skeptic, dives deep into the world of birding to discover how to do it well, the equipment you need, and most importantly why to give this sport (yes, it's a sport!) a shot. Meet this week’s guests Dominik Mosur, animal care specialist at the Randall Museum and birding tour guide Kara Cook, rooftop biologist for Audubon Florida Aunt Cheryl, Aislyn’s bird-loving aunt Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Find a bird tour around the world. Find a field guide for your region—here’s a California example. Download the Merlin app and the eBird app Discover your local Audubon chapter.  Don't forget to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic. And a special thanks to our August sponsor, the Austrian Tourist Office. To learn more about the Bregenzerwald region, a collection of 23 villages deep in Austria’s western Alps, visit afar.com/austria-nature. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Have you ever considered birdwatching? If the answer is a "heck, no"—or even a "not really"—than this episode is for you. Host Aislyn Greene, also a birdwatching skeptic, dives deep into the world of birding to discover how to do it well, the equipment you need, and most importantly why to give this sport (yes, it's a sport!) a shot.

    Meet this week’s guests

    • Dominik Mosur, animal care specialist at the Randall Museum and birding tour guide
    • Kara Cook, rooftop biologist for Audubon Florida
    • Aunt Cheryl, Aislyn’s bird-loving aunt


    Resources


    Don't forget to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic. And a special thanks to our August sponsor, the Austrian Tourist Office. To learn more about the Bregenzerwald region, a collection of 23 villages deep in Austria’s western Alps, visit afar.com/austria-nature.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1780 no     National Parks Are America’s Greatest Idea—and Biggest Problem https://www.afar.com/podcasts When you think of America’s national parks, what comes to mind? For many of us—myself included—it’s the sense of openness, freedom, and awe that places like the Grand Canyon and Yosemite can spark. And yet, as we’ll learn in today’s episode, that’s not the whole story.  Hundreds of years ago, Indigenous communities throughout the United States lived on and cared for much of the land that makes up America’s 400-plus national parks and other protected lands under the National Park Service (NPS). Then settlers arrived and an ugly chapter in our national history unfolded, one that included the forced removal of Native peoples from that very land. In recent years, however, there’s been a growing movement to return that land—or at the very least, to work with Native communities to co-manage it.  Associate editor Mae Hamilton is taking us on a journey into that movement. She speaks with our current director of national parks, Charles F. “Chuck” Sams III—the first person of Native descent to hold the position—about his connection to the parks and his efforts to bring tribe members into the conversation. She also speaks to two tribe members who have worked closely with the NPS and are cautiously optimistic about the new chapter currently unfolding.   Meet this week’s guests Mae Hamilton, AFAR associate editor Charles F. “Chuck” Sams III, director of the National Park System Hanford McCloud, a member of the Nisqually Tribal Council Tracie Revis, director of advocacy, cultural preservation and conservation of the Ocmulgee River Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Learn more about Joint Secretarial Order 3403 and what it could mean for the national parks and Native communities. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 17 Aug 2023 07:01:00 -0000 National Parks Are America’s Greatest Idea—and Biggest Problem full 2 28 Afar When you think of America’s national parks, what comes to mind? For many of us—myself included—it’s the sense of openness, freedom, and awe that places like the Grand Canyon and Yosemite can spark. And yet, as we’ll learn in today’s episode, that’s not the whole story.  Hundreds of years ago, Indigenous communities throughout the United States lived on and cared for much of the land that makes up America’s 400-plus national parks and other protected lands under the National Park Service (NPS). Then settlers arrived and an ugly chapter in our national history unfolded, one that included the forced removal of Native peoples from that very land. In recent years, however, there’s been a growing movement to return that land—or at the very least, to work with Native communities to co-manage it.  Associate editor Mae Hamilton is taking us on a journey into that movement. She speaks with our current director of national parks, Charles F. “Chuck” Sams III—the first person of Native descent to hold the position—about his connection to the parks and his efforts to bring tribe members into the conversation. She also speaks to two tribe members who have worked closely with the NPS and are cautiously optimistic about the new chapter currently unfolding.   Meet this week’s guests Mae Hamilton, AFAR associate editor Charles F. “Chuck” Sams III, director of the National Park System Hanford McCloud, a member of the Nisqually Tribal Council Tracie Revis, director of advocacy, cultural preservation and conservation of the Ocmulgee River Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Learn more about Joint Secretarial Order 3403 and what it could mean for the national parks and Native communities. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices When you think of America’s national parks, what comes to mind? For many of us—myself included—it’s the sense of openness, freedom, and awe that places like the Grand Canyon and Yosemite can spark. And yet, as we’ll learn in today’s episode, that’s not the whole story. 

    Hundreds of years ago, Indigenous communities throughout the United States lived on and cared for much of the land that makes up America’s 400-plus national parks and other protected lands under the National Park Service (NPS). Then settlers arrived and an ugly chapter in our national history unfolded, one that included the forced removal of Native peoples from that very land. In recent years, however, there’s been a growing movement to return that land—or at the very least, to work with Native communities to co-manage it. 

    Associate editor Mae Hamilton is taking us on a journey into that movement. She speaks with our current director of national parks, Charles F. “Chuck” Sams III—the first person of Native descent to hold the position—about his connection to the parks and his efforts to bring tribe members into the conversation. She also speaks to two tribe members who have worked closely with the NPS and are cautiously optimistic about the new chapter currently unfolding.  

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources

    • Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode.
    • Learn more about Joint Secretarial Order 3403 and what it could mean for the national parks and Native communities.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1652 no     Should I Give Money to Panhandlers When I Travel? https://www.afar.com/podcasts There are few things as challenging as the moment when, while walking along a sidewalk in Paris, San Francisco, or Cartagena, someone in need asks you for money. (I will also say that I imagine there are few things as challenging as being in a place in your life where you have to ask strangers for money.)  What do you do, personally? Do you give? Do you avert your eyes and keep on walking? Is it somewhere in between? Regardless of the decision you make, it’s a complex moment from a human perspective. And that complexity was the subject of our inaugural digital advice column, also called Unpacked. In it Dr. Anu Taranath, a speaker, consultant, and author of the book Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World, responds to a reader’s question asking if she did the right thing by giving money. And in today’s episode, Dr. Anu expands on her answer. We talked about her initial reaction to the question, the insidiousness of inequality, and the times in her life when she’s encountered panhandling. (She has an incredible story from a trip to Senegal.) What I love about Anu’s response is that she doesn’t have a definitive answer. In fact, she says, there are no easy answers when it comes to living in an unequal world.  But her advice is empathetic and full of understanding that the world isn’t black and white. And most importantly, she shares how to navigate these situations with dignity and grace—for all involved.  Meet this week’s guest Dr. Anu Taranath, speaker, consultant, and author Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read Dr. Anu’s original response to the reader’s question.  Read Dr. Anu’s second column, about what to do when the person sitting next to you on the plane is drunk.   Buy her book, Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 10 Aug 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Should I Give Money to Panhandlers When I Travel? full 27 Afar There are few things as challenging as the moment when, while walking along a sidewalk in Paris, San Francisco, or Cartagena, someone in need asks you for money. (I will also say that I imagine there are few things as challenging as being in a place in your life where you have to ask strangers for money.)  What do you do, personally? Do you give? Do you avert your eyes and keep on walking? Is it somewhere in between? Regardless of the decision you make, it’s a complex moment from a human perspective. And that complexity was the subject of our inaugural digital advice column, also called Unpacked. In it Dr. Anu Taranath, a speaker, consultant, and author of the book Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World, responds to a reader’s question asking if she did the right thing by giving money. And in today’s episode, Dr. Anu expands on her answer. We talked about her initial reaction to the question, the insidiousness of inequality, and the times in her life when she’s encountered panhandling. (She has an incredible story from a trip to Senegal.) What I love about Anu’s response is that she doesn’t have a definitive answer. In fact, she says, there are no easy answers when it comes to living in an unequal world.  But her advice is empathetic and full of understanding that the world isn’t black and white. And most importantly, she shares how to navigate these situations with dignity and grace—for all involved.  Meet this week’s guest Dr. Anu Taranath, speaker, consultant, and author Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read Dr. Anu’s original response to the reader’s question.  Read Dr. Anu’s second column, about what to do when the person sitting next to you on the plane is drunk.   Buy her book, Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices There are few things as challenging as the moment when, while walking along a sidewalk in Paris, San Francisco, or Cartagena, someone in need asks you for money. (I will also say that I imagine there are few things as challenging as being in a place in your life where you have to ask strangers for money.) 

    What do you do, personally? Do you give? Do you avert your eyes and keep on walking? Is it somewhere in between? Regardless of the decision you make, it’s a complex moment from a human perspective. And that complexity was the subject of our inaugural digital advice column, also called Unpacked. In it Dr. Anu Taranath, a speaker, consultant, and author of the book Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World, responds to a reader’s question asking if she did the right thing by giving money.

    And in today’s episode, Dr. Anu expands on her answer. We talked about her initial reaction to the question, the insidiousness of inequality, and the times in her life when she’s encountered panhandling. (She has an incredible story from a trip to Senegal.) What I love about Anu’s response is that she doesn’t have a definitive answer. In fact, she says, there are no easy answers when it comes to living in an unequal world. 

    But her advice is empathetic and full of understanding that the world isn’t black and white. And most importantly, she shares how to navigate these situations with dignity and grace—for all involved. 

    Meet this week’s guest

    • Dr. Anu Taranath, speaker, consultant, and author


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1724 no     Will the "Real" Waikīkī Please Stand Up? https://www.afar.com/podcasts AFAR senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers—who heads up all our hotel content—has a deep familiarity with Waikīkī, the two-mile stretch of sand known for its hotels, waves, and tourists. Her mother is from Hawai'i, and her parents (both in the hospitality industry) actually met while working in a hotel. She played on Waikīkī as a kid, but for years, she's seen it as a kinda shiny, glitzy place—a place that seems a little, well, inauthentic. So on a recent trip to O'ahu, she met with four different locals who helped her see a new side of Waikīkī. Meet this week’s guests Jennifer Flowers, AFAR senior deputy editor  Misty Thompson Tufono, executive vice president of Tihati Productions Dylan Ching, vice president of operations for TS Restaurants, which includes Duke’s Waikīkī Aunty Luana Maitland, director of cultural experiences at the Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort Bonga Perkins, world-champion longboard surfer Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read Jenn’s story about the cultural experiences she had on Waikīkī. Check out the Royal Hawaiian and its luau, run by Tihati Productions. Explore the menu at Duke’s Waikīkī.  Discover the cultural center at the Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort. Watch Bonga surf! (And check out his surfboards.)  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 03 Aug 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Will the "Real" Waikīkī Please Stand Up? full 2 26 Afar AFAR senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers—who heads up all our hotel content—has a deep familiarity with Waikīkī, the two-mile stretch of sand known for its hotels, waves, and tourists. Her mother is from Hawai'i, and her parents (both in the hospitality industry) actually met while working in a hotel. She played on Waikīkī as a kid, but for years, she's seen it as a kinda shiny, glitzy place—a place that seems a little, well, inauthentic. So on a recent trip to O'ahu, she met with four different locals who helped her see a new side of Waikīkī. Meet this week’s guests Jennifer Flowers, AFAR senior deputy editor  Misty Thompson Tufono, executive vice president of Tihati Productions Dylan Ching, vice president of operations for TS Restaurants, which includes Duke’s Waikīkī Aunty Luana Maitland, director of cultural experiences at the Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort Bonga Perkins, world-champion longboard surfer Resources Read this episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read Jenn’s story about the cultural experiences she had on Waikīkī. Check out the Royal Hawaiian and its luau, run by Tihati Productions. Explore the menu at Duke’s Waikīkī.  Discover the cultural center at the Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort. Watch Bonga surf! (And check out his surfboards.)  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices AFAR senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers—who heads up all our hotel content—has a deep familiarity with Waikīkī, the two-mile stretch of sand known for its hotels, waves, and tourists. Her mother is from Hawai'i, and her parents (both in the hospitality industry) actually met while working in a hotel. She played on Waikīkī as a kid, but for years, she's seen it as a kinda shiny, glitzy place—a place that seems a little, well, inauthentic.

    So on a recent trip to O'ahu, she met with four different locals who helped her see a new side of Waikīkī.

    Meet this week’s guests

    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1740 no     The Promise and Peril of Digital Nomadism https://www.afar.com/podcasts Digital nomadism has been hailed as a way to save communities—and slammed for raising rents and pricing out locals. In this week’s episode, Chloe Arrojado, an AFAR editor and digital nomad, explores the complicated ethics of working remotely. Meet this week’s guests Chloe Arrojado, AFAR associate editor, destinations Olga Hannonen, a researcher at the University of Eastern Finland Luci Jerkovic, head of global PR for the Croatian National Tourist Board Nicole Lim, executive director of Movers and Shakas Brent Hartinger and Michael Jensen, digital nomads  Resources Read the episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Six tips for starting out as a digital nomad. The best gear for digital nomads. 10 countries that make it easy to work remotely. How to apply for Canada’s new digital nomad visa.   Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 27 Jul 2023 07:01:00 -0000 The Promise and Peril of Digital Nomadism full 2 25 Afar Digital nomadism has been hailed as a way to save communities—and slammed for raising rents and pricing out locals. In this week’s episode, Chloe Arrojado, an AFAR editor and digital nomad, explores the complicated ethics of working remotely. Meet this week’s guests Chloe Arrojado, AFAR associate editor, destinations Olga Hannonen, a researcher at the University of Eastern Finland Luci Jerkovic, head of global PR for the Croatian National Tourist Board Nicole Lim, executive director of Movers and Shakas Brent Hartinger and Michael Jensen, digital nomads  Resources Read the episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Six tips for starting out as a digital nomad. The best gear for digital nomads. 10 countries that make it easy to work remotely. How to apply for Canada’s new digital nomad visa.   Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Digital nomadism has been hailed as a way to save communities—and slammed for raising rents and pricing out locals. In this week’s episode, Chloe Arrojado, an AFAR editor and digital nomad, explores the complicated ethics of working remotely.

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1994 no     How to Get Airport Lounge Access, Even if You Don’t Have Airline Status https://www.afar.com/podcasts Airport lounges can be one of the most complex, mysterious parts of the airport experience. Aside from buying a business- or first-class ticket, how do you access them? Is it worth buying a day pass? Are they really worth all the fuss? In this week’s episode of Unpacked, AFAR points and miles expert Paul Rubio reveals the secrets to gaining airport lounge access—no premium tickets required. Meet this week’s guest Paul Rubio, AFAR points and miles expert Resources Read the episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read Paul’s primer on the best ways to get airport lounge access. Explore the best credit cards to apply for now (with lounge access). Learn why lounges are harder to access these days. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 20 Jul 2023 07:01:00 -0000 How to Get Airport Lounge Access, Even if You Don’t Have Airline Status full 2 24 Afar Airport lounges can be one of the most complex, mysterious parts of the airport experience. Aside from buying a business- or first-class ticket, how do you access them? Is it worth buying a day pass? Are they really worth all the fuss? In this week’s episode of Unpacked, AFAR points and miles expert Paul Rubio reveals the secrets to gaining airport lounge access—no premium tickets required. Meet this week’s guest Paul Rubio, AFAR points and miles expert Resources Read the episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read Paul’s primer on the best ways to get airport lounge access. Explore the best credit cards to apply for now (with lounge access). Learn why lounges are harder to access these days. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Airport lounges can be one of the most complex, mysterious parts of the airport experience. Aside from buying a business- or first-class ticket, how do you access them? Is it worth buying a day pass? Are they really worth all the fuss? In this week’s episode of Unpacked, AFAR points and miles expert Paul Rubio reveals the secrets to gaining airport lounge access—no premium tickets required.

    Meet this week’s guest

    • Paul Rubio, AFAR points and miles expert

    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2924 no     The Secrets to Traveling Well With Children https://www.afar.com/podcasts Which countries are the most family friendly? How do you help kids deal with jet lag? What about routines, bedtimes, and kids in business class? In this week’s episode, four AFAR editors, all parents, share their answers to all those questions, plus real-world advice about traveling with small children—including one editor’s genius hack for making sure her kids eat. Meet this week’s guests Laura Dannen Redman, director of digital content  Sarika Bansal, editorial director Tim Chester, deputy editor Michelle Baran, senior travel news editor Resources Read the episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Explore some of our favorite family-friendly trips and destinations.  Listen to a Delta flight attendant’s top tips on flying with kids. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 13 Jul 2023 07:01:00 -0000 The Secrets to Traveling Well With Children full 2 23 Afar Which countries are the most family friendly? How do you help kids deal with jet lag? What about routines, bedtimes, and kids in business class? In this week’s episode, four AFAR editors, all parents, share their answers to all those questions, plus real-world advice about traveling with small children—including one editor’s genius hack for making sure her kids eat. Meet this week’s guests Laura Dannen Redman, director of digital content  Sarika Bansal, editorial director Tim Chester, deputy editor Michelle Baran, senior travel news editor Resources Read the episode’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Explore some of our favorite family-friendly trips and destinations.  Listen to a Delta flight attendant’s top tips on flying with kids. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Which countries are the most family friendly? How do you help kids deal with jet lag? What about routines, bedtimes, and kids in business class? In this week’s episode, four AFAR editors, all parents, share their answers to all those questions, plus real-world advice about traveling with small children—including one editor’s genius hack for making sure her kids eat.

    Meet this week’s guests

    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2570 no     Summer Replay! The Best Places to Go in 2023 https://www.afar.com/podcasts It’s a holiday week, one that (we hope) finds you swimming in a lake, or traveling to a new city, or otherwise enjoying these fleeting summer days. We don’t have a new episode this week, but given that we are halfway through 2023, we wanted to reshare our first episode of the year, our Where to Go in 2023 episode, in which editorial director Sarika Bansal and the team that puts together our annual list broke down said list and shared their thoughts on travel, present and future.  In it, they dig into the 12 destinations we focused on this year, including the Great Lakes, Bangkok, and Transylvania. We hope that it offers some inspiration, or at least a reason to dream as you bask in the summer sun. We’ll be back next week with another roundtable discussion about traveling with kids, and the following week with a deep dive into the world of digital nomadism. Happy listening! Meet this week’s guests Sarika Bansal, AFAR editorial director Tim Chester, AFAR deputy editor Ashlea Halpern, freelance writer and editor Resources Read the episodes’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Explore our Where to Go in 2023 list. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 06 Jul 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Summer Replay! The Best Places to Go in 2023 full 2 22 Afar It’s a holiday week, one that (we hope) finds you swimming in a lake, or traveling to a new city, or otherwise enjoying these fleeting summer days. We don’t have a new episode this week, but given that we are halfway through 2023, we wanted to reshare our first episode of the year, our Where to Go in 2023 episode, in which editorial director Sarika Bansal and the team that puts together our annual list broke down said list and shared their thoughts on travel, present and future.  In it, they dig into the 12 destinations we focused on this year, including the Great Lakes, Bangkok, and Transylvania. We hope that it offers some inspiration, or at least a reason to dream as you bask in the summer sun. We’ll be back next week with another roundtable discussion about traveling with kids, and the following week with a deep dive into the world of digital nomadism. Happy listening! Meet this week’s guests Sarika Bansal, AFAR editorial director Tim Chester, AFAR deputy editor Ashlea Halpern, freelance writer and editor Resources Read the episodes’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Explore our Where to Go in 2023 list. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It’s a holiday week, one that (we hope) finds you swimming in a lake, or traveling to a new city, or otherwise enjoying these fleeting summer days. We don’t have a new episode this week, but given that we are halfway through 2023, we wanted to reshare our first episode of the year, our Where to Go in 2023 episode, in which editorial director Sarika Bansal and the team that puts together our annual list broke down said list and shared their thoughts on travel, present and future. 

    In it, they dig into the 12 destinations we focused on this year, including the Great Lakes, Bangkok, and Transylvania. We hope that it offers some inspiration, or at least a reason to dream as you bask in the summer sun. We’ll be back next week with another roundtable discussion about traveling with kids, and the following week with a deep dive into the world of digital nomadism. Happy listening!

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2787 no     A Flight Attendant's Tips for Flying With Kids—Without Losing Your Mind https://www.afar.com/podcasts Kids and flying can be polarizing—anyone else remember popcorngate? But in this week’s episode, flight attendant (and mother of two) Andrea Davis shares her secrets for flying with children, whatever their age. She has has tips on packing, jet lag, crying babies, and why it’s worth it to travel with little ones, even when things go sideways. And she has tips for the child-less adults on flights: It's worth a listen—as a reminder that kids and parents are usually doing their best and that, yes, you can lean on your flight attendant when the kiddo behind you is kicking your seat. New! Subscribe to our show notes email. Meet this week’s guest Andrea Davis, Delta flight attendant Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Check out our editor-approved travel seat for kids.  Inspired to travel? Read about our favorite places to travel with kids of all ages.    Want additional travel-with-kids content? You’ll find more here—and in our July 20th episode.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 29 Jun 2023 07:01:00 -0000 A Flight Attendant's Tips for Flying With Kids—Without Losing Your Mind full 2 21 Afar Kids and flying can be polarizing—anyone else remember popcorngate? But in this week’s episode, flight attendant (and mother of two) Andrea Davis shares her secrets for flying with children, whatever their age. She has has tips on packing, jet lag, crying babies, and why it’s worth it to travel with little ones, even when things go sideways. And she has tips for the child-less adults on flights: It's worth a listen—as a reminder that kids and parents are usually doing their best and that, yes, you can lean on your flight attendant when the kiddo behind you is kicking your seat. New! Subscribe to our show notes email. Meet this week’s guest Andrea Davis, Delta flight attendant Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Check out our editor-approved travel seat for kids.  Inspired to travel? Read about our favorite places to travel with kids of all ages.    Want additional travel-with-kids content? You’ll find more here—and in our July 20th episode.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Kids and flying can be polarizing—anyone else remember popcorngate? But in this week’s episode, flight attendant (and mother of two) Andrea Davis shares her secrets for flying with children, whatever their age. She has has tips on packing, jet lag, crying babies, and why it’s worth it to travel with little ones, even when things go sideways. And she has tips for the child-less adults on flights: It's worth a listen—as a reminder that kids and parents are usually doing their best and that, yes, you can lean on your flight attendant when the kiddo behind you is kicking your seat. New! Subscribe to our show notes email.


    Meet this week’s guest


    Resources

    • Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode.
    • Check out our editor-approved travel seat for kids. 
    • Inspired to travel? Read about our favorite places to travel with kids of all ages.   
    • Want additional travel-with-kids content? You’ll find more here—and in our July 20th episode. 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2512 no     Inside Rick Steves’s Self-Imposed Carbon Tax https://www.afar.com/podcasts Can $30 per traveler really make a difference when it comes to carbon offsets? For Rick Steves, the answer is “absolutely.” For the past four years, his company has paid a self-imposed carbon tax—in 2022, they donated $1 million to a dozen, carefully selected nonprofits to mitigate the carbon cost of their travelers. In this week’s episode of Unpacked , we chat with Craig Davidson, COO of Rick Steves’ Europe, about how their Climate Smart Commitment program works—and the life-changing results. Meet this week’s guest Craig Davidson, COO of Rick Steves’ Europe Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to last week’s episode.  Listen to Rick’s podcast, Travel With Rick Steves. Learn more about Rick Steves’ Europe Climate Smart Commitment.   Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 22 Jun 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Inside Rick Steves’s Self-Imposed Carbon Tax full 2 20 Afar Can $30 per traveler really make a difference when it comes to carbon offsets? For Rick Steves, the answer is “absolutely.” For the past four years, his company has paid a self-imposed carbon tax—in 2022, they donated $1 million to a dozen, carefully selected nonprofits to mitigate the carbon cost of their travelers. In this week’s episode of Unpacked , we chat with Craig Davidson, COO of Rick Steves’ Europe, about how their Climate Smart Commitment program works—and the life-changing results. Meet this week’s guest Craig Davidson, COO of Rick Steves’ Europe Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to last week’s episode.  Listen to Rick’s podcast, Travel With Rick Steves. Learn more about Rick Steves’ Europe Climate Smart Commitment.   Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Can $30 per traveler really make a difference when it comes to carbon offsets? For Rick Steves, the answer is “absolutely.” For the past four years, his company has paid a self-imposed carbon tax—in 2022, they donated $1 million to a dozen, carefully selected nonprofits to mitigate the carbon cost of their travelers. In this week’s episode of Unpacked , we chat with Craig Davidson, COO of Rick Steves’ Europe, about how their Climate Smart Commitment program works—and the life-changing results.

    Meet this week’s guest


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1907 no     Rick Steves Wants to Save the World, One Trip at a Time https://www.afar.com/podcasts In the world of travel legends, Rick Steves is right up there at the top. Since he launched his company in 1976, he has sent millions of Americans abroad, either through his guided tours or via his many, many guidebooks. But his mission—to “curate culture shock”—comes with a cost.  Rick has long been aware of the environmental impact of encouraging so many people to travel, but he found that carbon offset programs didn’t do enough to alleviate his concerns. So Rick and his team created the Rick Steves’ Europe Climate Smart Commitment, which donates $30 for every traveler on their tours to a carefully selected set of nonprofits.  Rick came on the podcast to chat about the program, as well as his views on ethical travel. But the conversation was so wide-ranging and rich—touching on everything from dual-narrative travel to his belief in the power of crossing borders—that we decided to split it into two episodes.  This week’s episode focuses on Rick’s constantly evolving views on travel, his mission, and his belief in self-imposed carbon taxes. And next week, we’ll drill down into his Climate Smart Commitment with his chief operating officer, Craig Davidson.  Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to Rick’s podcast, Travel With Rick Steves. Learn more about the Rick Steves’ Europe Climate Smart Commitment.   Read our story about a climate change reporter who wanted to fly less. Check out our primer on carbon offsets and the programs that can make a difference.  Catch up on Unpacked, season two: How to Make Hard Travel Funny, According to a Comedian The Making of a Patagonian National Park Are You Ready to Hand Over Travel Planning to the ChatGPT and AI Bots? It’s Not Too Late to Plan Your Summer Travels—Here’s How Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 15 Jun 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Rick Steves Wants to Save the World, One Trip at a Time full 2 19 Afar In the world of travel legends, Rick Steves is right up there at the top. Since he launched his company in 1976, he has sent millions of Americans abroad, either through his guided tours or via his many, many guidebooks. But his mission—to “curate culture shock”—comes with a cost.  Rick has long been aware of the environmental impact of encouraging so many people to travel, but he found that carbon offset programs didn’t do enough to alleviate his concerns. So Rick and his team created the Rick Steves’ Europe Climate Smart Commitment, which donates $30 for every traveler on their tours to a carefully selected set of nonprofits.  Rick came on the podcast to chat about the program, as well as his views on ethical travel. But the conversation was so wide-ranging and rich—touching on everything from dual-narrative travel to his belief in the power of crossing borders—that we decided to split it into two episodes.  This week’s episode focuses on Rick’s constantly evolving views on travel, his mission, and his belief in self-imposed carbon taxes. And next week, we’ll drill down into his Climate Smart Commitment with his chief operating officer, Craig Davidson.  Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to Rick’s podcast, Travel With Rick Steves. Learn more about the Rick Steves’ Europe Climate Smart Commitment.   Read our story about a climate change reporter who wanted to fly less. Check out our primer on carbon offsets and the programs that can make a difference.  Catch up on Unpacked, season two: How to Make Hard Travel Funny, According to a Comedian The Making of a Patagonian National Park Are You Ready to Hand Over Travel Planning to the ChatGPT and AI Bots? It’s Not Too Late to Plan Your Summer Travels—Here’s How Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In the world of travel legends, Rick Steves is right up there at the top. Since he launched his company in 1976, he has sent millions of Americans abroad, either through his guided tours or via his many, many guidebooks. But his mission—to “curate culture shock”—comes with a cost. 

    Rick has long been aware of the environmental impact of encouraging so many people to travel, but he found that carbon offset programs didn’t do enough to alleviate his concerns. So Rick and his team created the Rick Steves’ Europe Climate Smart Commitment, which donates $30 for every traveler on their tours to a carefully selected set of nonprofits. 

    Rick came on the podcast to chat about the program, as well as his views on ethical travel. But the conversation was so wide-ranging and rich—touching on everything from dual-narrative travel to his belief in the power of crossing borders—that we decided to split it into two episodes. 

    This week’s episode focuses on Rick’s constantly evolving views on travel, his mission, and his belief in self-imposed carbon taxes. And next week, we’ll drill down into his Climate Smart Commitment with his chief operating officer, Craig Davidson. 

    Resources


    Catch up on Unpacked, season two:


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2857 no     It's Not Too Late to Plan Your Summer Travels—Here's How https://www.afar.com/podcasts This episode starts with a sunburn. That’s how on-topic it is. Because yes, it’s summer! And wow, do we have a lot of tips for you this year. To get them, I spoke with Mark Ellwood, the (sunburned) freelance travel writer who handles all of our monthly Where to Go columns, as well as the two editors who make up our mighty destination team, Chloe Arrojado and Tim Chester.  We started with planning—Mark is a planner, Chloe is not—and segued into how to score flight deals, if and when to travel to Europe during the hottest months, and our favorite road trip destinations. (Italy’s Prosecco Road, anyone?) We touched on lesser-known destinations, travel deals (it’s a great year to visit the U.K.), national parks, and even visiting places where it’s winter now.  So, no matter what you’re doing this summer—whether it’s road-tripping or trying to squeeze in a weekend getaway around your kids’ camp activities—we have something for you. Yes, even for you procrastinators. Happy summer travels!  Meet this week’s guests Mark Ellwood, freelance travel writer Chloe Arrojado, associate destinations editor Tim Chester, deputy destinations editor Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Explore our Where to Go in July story. Find great summer deals (they exist!) and book affordable airfare. Need some beach time? We have the 20 best beaches in the world.  Drive the Prosecco Road that Mark mentions. Visit our favorite national parks.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:01:00 -0000 It's Not Too Late to Plan Your Summer Travels—Here's How full 2 18 Afar This episode starts with a sunburn. That’s how on-topic it is. Because yes, it’s summer! And wow, do we have a lot of tips for you this year. To get them, I spoke with Mark Ellwood, the (sunburned) freelance travel writer who handles all of our monthly Where to Go columns, as well as the two editors who make up our mighty destination team, Chloe Arrojado and Tim Chester.  We started with planning—Mark is a planner, Chloe is not—and segued into how to score flight deals, if and when to travel to Europe during the hottest months, and our favorite road trip destinations. (Italy’s Prosecco Road, anyone?) We touched on lesser-known destinations, travel deals (it’s a great year to visit the U.K.), national parks, and even visiting places where it’s winter now.  So, no matter what you’re doing this summer—whether it’s road-tripping or trying to squeeze in a weekend getaway around your kids’ camp activities—we have something for you. Yes, even for you procrastinators. Happy summer travels!  Meet this week’s guests Mark Ellwood, freelance travel writer Chloe Arrojado, associate destinations editor Tim Chester, deputy destinations editor Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Explore our Where to Go in July story. Find great summer deals (they exist!) and book affordable airfare. Need some beach time? We have the 20 best beaches in the world.  Drive the Prosecco Road that Mark mentions. Visit our favorite national parks.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This episode starts with a sunburn. That’s how on-topic it is. Because yes, it’s summer! And wow, do we have a lot of tips for you this year. To get them, I spoke with Mark Ellwood, the (sunburned) freelance travel writer who handles all of our monthly Where to Go columns, as well as the two editors who make up our mighty destination team, Chloe Arrojado and Tim Chester. 

    We started with planning—Mark is a planner, Chloe is not—and segued into how to score flight deals, if and when to travel to Europe during the hottest months, and our favorite road trip destinations. (Italy’s Prosecco Road, anyone?) We touched on lesser-known destinations, travel deals (it’s a great year to visit the U.K.), national parks, and even visiting places where it’s winter now. 

    So, no matter what you’re doing this summer—whether it’s road-tripping or trying to squeeze in a weekend getaway around your kids’ camp activities—we have something for you. Yes, even for you procrastinators. Happy summer travels! 

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3674 no     Are You Ready to Hand Over Your Travel Planning to the ChatGPT and AI Bots? https://www.afar.com/podcasts Would you let ChatGPT plan your trip? Chris Dong, the host of this week’s episode, isn’t sure. As a travel writer, he knows his way around the world—and when we tasked him with writing a piece about the technology, he was initially skeptical about handing over the reins to, well, a robot.  To get answers, he spoke with Hannah Mieczkowski, an AI expert who holds a Ph.D. degree in human and AI interaction from Stanford University, and Seth Borko, a senior research analyst at Skift and author of an April 2023 report titled “Generative AI’s Impact on Travel.”  Together, they explained the ways ChatGPT can actually help us now, the things we need to watch for, and what we can expect in the future. As Chris discovered, it’s still murky territory. But there are some benefits—and there’s little chance we’ll be ruled by the robot overlords.  Meet this week’s guests Chris Dong, travel writer and episode host Hannah Mieczkowski, AI expert Seth Borko, senior research analyst at Skift Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read Chris’s companion piece about ChatGPT and travel.  Try ChatGPT for yourself! Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 01 Jun 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Are You Ready to Hand Over Your Travel Planning to the ChatGPT and AI Bots? full 2 17 Afar Would you let ChatGPT plan your trip? Chris Dong, the host of this week’s episode, isn’t sure. As a travel writer, he knows his way around the world—and when we tasked him with writing a piece about the technology, he was initially skeptical about handing over the reins to, well, a robot.  To get answers, he spoke with Hannah Mieczkowski, an AI expert who holds a Ph.D. degree in human and AI interaction from Stanford University, and Seth Borko, a senior research analyst at Skift and author of an April 2023 report titled “Generative AI’s Impact on Travel.”  Together, they explained the ways ChatGPT can actually help us now, the things we need to watch for, and what we can expect in the future. As Chris discovered, it’s still murky territory. But there are some benefits—and there’s little chance we’ll be ruled by the robot overlords.  Meet this week’s guests Chris Dong, travel writer and episode host Hannah Mieczkowski, AI expert Seth Borko, senior research analyst at Skift Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Read Chris’s companion piece about ChatGPT and travel.  Try ChatGPT for yourself! Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Would you let ChatGPT plan your trip? Chris Dong, the host of this week’s episode, isn’t sure. As a travel writer, he knows his way around the world—and when we tasked him with writing a piece about the technology, he was initially skeptical about handing over the reins to, well, a robot. 

    To get answers, he spoke with Hannah Mieczkowski, an AI expert who holds a Ph.D. degree in human and AI interaction from Stanford University, and Seth Borko, a senior research analyst at Skift and author of an April 2023 report titled “Generative AI’s Impact on Travel.” 

    Together, they explained the ways ChatGPT can actually help us now, the things we need to watch for, and what we can expect in the future. As Chris discovered, it’s still murky territory. But there are some benefits—and there’s little chance we’ll be ruled by the robot overlords. 

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1621 no     The Making of a Patagonian National Park https://www.afar.com/podcasts When Kris Tompkins, former Patagonia CEO, moved to Chile in the ’90s, she and her late husband, Doug Tompkins, began a decades-long conservation project in both Chile and Argentina. They faced obstacle after obstacle, but eventually persevered, creating more than a dozen national parks. It’s all the subject of a new documentary, Wild Life, streaming now, and of this week’s episode. Hear from Kris as she shares her story, from jaguar reintroduction to her enduring fascination with South America. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Watch the film, Wild Life, on the National Geographic Channel (May 25th) and Disney+ (May 26th). Learn more about the Tompkins Conservation. Explore Rewilding Chile and Rewilding Argentina’s work.  Plan a trip to visit the new national parks. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 25 May 2023 07:01:00 -0000 The Making of a Patagonian National Park full 2 16 Afar When Kris Tompkins, former Patagonia CEO, moved to Chile in the ’90s, she and her late husband, Doug Tompkins, began a decades-long conservation project in both Chile and Argentina. They faced obstacle after obstacle, but eventually persevered, creating more than a dozen national parks. It’s all the subject of a new documentary, Wild Life, streaming now, and of this week’s episode. Hear from Kris as she shares her story, from jaguar reintroduction to her enduring fascination with South America. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Watch the film, Wild Life, on the National Geographic Channel (May 25th) and Disney+ (May 26th). Learn more about the Tompkins Conservation. Explore Rewilding Chile and Rewilding Argentina’s work.  Plan a trip to visit the new national parks. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices When Kris Tompkins, former Patagonia CEO, moved to Chile in the ’90s, she and her late husband, Doug Tompkins, began a decades-long conservation project in both Chile and Argentina. They faced obstacle after obstacle, but eventually persevered, creating more than a dozen national parks. It’s all the subject of a new documentary, Wild Life, streaming now, and of this week’s episode. Hear from Kris as she shares her story, from jaguar reintroduction to her enduring fascination with South America.

    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2475 no     How to Make Hard Travel Funny, According to a Comedian https://www.afar.com/podcasts This week we’re chatting with comedian, activist, and podcast host Youngmi Mayer, who’s based in New York City’s Chinatown. Host Mae Hamilton, AFAR’s assistant editor, first came upon Youngmi on Instagram. Youngmi’s post about not quite fitting in with Korean or American culture really resonated with Mae, and made her feel seen in a way she hadn’t before as a half Taiwanese and half white American person. Soon Mae began tuning in weekly to Youngmi’s podcast Hairy Butthole—based on the Korean saying “If you laugh while crying, hair will grow out of your butthole”—and quickly became a big Youngmi fan. In this episode, Mae talks with Youngmi about a recent trip she took to her childhood homes in Korea and Saipan, an island near Guam. Youngmi had a traumatic childhood, a subject which makes a regular appearance in her standup. So returning home for her has always been a bit . . . complicated. So they discuss what it’s like to travel to a place that has emotional baggage for you and how to still find beauty in it. They also talk about Asian moms, what it’s like to be biracial and Asian American, and why these identities can be so complex. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to Youngmi’s current podcast, Hairy Butthole Listen to Youngmi’s former podcast, Feeling Asian Follow Youngmi on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 18 May 2023 07:01:00 -0000 How to Make Hard Travel Funny, According to a Comedian full 2 15 Afar This week we’re chatting with comedian, activist, and podcast host Youngmi Mayer, who’s based in New York City’s Chinatown. Host Mae Hamilton, AFAR’s assistant editor, first came upon Youngmi on Instagram. Youngmi’s post about not quite fitting in with Korean or American culture really resonated with Mae, and made her feel seen in a way she hadn’t before as a half Taiwanese and half white American person. Soon Mae began tuning in weekly to Youngmi’s podcast Hairy Butthole—based on the Korean saying “If you laugh while crying, hair will grow out of your butthole”—and quickly became a big Youngmi fan. In this episode, Mae talks with Youngmi about a recent trip she took to her childhood homes in Korea and Saipan, an island near Guam. Youngmi had a traumatic childhood, a subject which makes a regular appearance in her standup. So returning home for her has always been a bit . . . complicated. So they discuss what it’s like to travel to a place that has emotional baggage for you and how to still find beauty in it. They also talk about Asian moms, what it’s like to be biracial and Asian American, and why these identities can be so complex. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Listen to Youngmi’s current podcast, Hairy Butthole Listen to Youngmi’s former podcast, Feeling Asian Follow Youngmi on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This week we’re chatting with comedian, activist, and podcast host Youngmi Mayer, who’s based in New York City’s Chinatown. Host Mae Hamilton, AFAR’s assistant editor, first came upon Youngmi on Instagram.

    Youngmi’s post about not quite fitting in with Korean or American culture really resonated with Mae, and made her feel seen in a way she hadn’t before as a half Taiwanese and half white American person. Soon Mae began tuning in weekly to Youngmi’s podcast Hairy Butthole—based on the Korean saying “If you laugh while crying, hair will grow out of your butthole”—and quickly became a big Youngmi fan.

    In this episode, Mae talks with Youngmi about a recent trip she took to her childhood homes in Korea and Saipan, an island near Guam. Youngmi had a traumatic childhood, a subject which makes a regular appearance in her standup. So returning home for her has always been a bit . . . complicated. So they discuss what it’s like to travel to a place that has emotional baggage for you and how to still find beauty in it. They also talk about Asian moms, what it’s like to be biracial and Asian American, and why these identities can be so complex.

    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2290 no     Would You Hike 500 Miles With Your Teenager? Andrew McCarthy Said Yes. https://www.afar.com/podcasts Hiking Spain’s Camino de Santiago trail is one of the world’s great pilgrimages. And actor, writer, and director Andrew McCarthy has walked the 500-mile Camino Frances, not once but twice, most recently with his teen son. It’s a journey he documented in his new book, Walking with Sam (Grand Central Publishing, May 2023), and shares with us in this week’s episode.    Some of you may know Andrew from his work in film and TV—he starred in such ’80s classics as St. Elmo’s Fire and Weekend at Bernie’s—but here at AFAR, we’re more familiar with his work as a travel writer and editor. In 2010, he participated in one of AFAR’s first Spin the Globe trips: We spun the globe and sent Andrew to Ethiopia with less than 24 hours’ notice—a trip that culminated in his near arrest.  But his latest book is a quieter adventure. As his son took his first steps into adulthood, Andrew wanted to recreate his own first Camino walk—and cement their bond. As they walked (sometimes together, sometimes apart), they faced blisters and hours in the baking sun, the paradoxes of solitude and companionship, and the transformative power of the Camino pilgrimage. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode: https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked/s2-e14-andrew-mccarthy Read Andrew's Spin the Globe for AFAR: https://www.afar.com/magazine/spin-the-globe-andrew-mccarthy-in-ethiopia Read Andrew’s new book, Walking with Sam: https://geni.us/2RERJ Read the book that inspired Andrew’s first Camino pilgrimage, Jack Hitt’s Off the Road: https://geni.us/H6uG0 Read Andrew’s first book, The Longest Way Home: https://geni.us/g7I5JM Watch some of Andrew’s films, including St Elmo’s Fire and Weekend at Bernie’s Walking resources If you want to tackle the Camino de Santiago: https://santiago-compostela.net/ If you want to tackle Japan's Kumano Kodo: https://www.afar.com/magazine/disconnect-from-the-modern-world-on-a-pilgrims-path-through-japan If you just want to walk: https://www.afar.com/magazine/7-famous-pilgrimages-around-the-world-that-you-can-walk-or-cycle Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 11 May 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Would You Hike 500 Miles With Your Teenager? Andrew McCarthy Said Yes. full 2 14 Afar Hiking Spain’s Camino de Santiago trail is one of the world’s great pilgrimages. And actor, writer, and director Andrew McCarthy has walked the 500-mile Camino Frances, not once but twice, most recently with his teen son. It’s a journey he documented in his new book, Walking with Sam (Grand Central Publishing, May 2023), and shares with us in this week’s episode.    Some of you may know Andrew from his work in film and TV—he starred in such ’80s classics as St. Elmo’s Fire and Weekend at Bernie’s—but here at AFAR, we’re more familiar with his work as a travel writer and editor. In 2010, he participated in one of AFAR’s first Spin the Globe trips: We spun the globe and sent Andrew to Ethiopia with less than 24 hours’ notice—a trip that culminated in his near arrest.  But his latest book is a quieter adventure. As his son took his first steps into adulthood, Andrew wanted to recreate his own first Camino walk—and cement their bond. As they walked (sometimes together, sometimes apart), they faced blisters and hours in the baking sun, the paradoxes of solitude and companionship, and the transformative power of the Camino pilgrimage. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode: https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked/s2-e14-andrew-mccarthy Read Andrew's Spin the Globe for AFAR: https://www.afar.com/magazine/spin-the-globe-andrew-mccarthy-in-ethiopia Read Andrew’s new book, Walking with Sam: https://geni.us/2RERJ Read the book that inspired Andrew’s first Camino pilgrimage, Jack Hitt’s Off the Road: https://geni.us/H6uG0 Read Andrew’s first book, The Longest Way Home: https://geni.us/g7I5JM Watch some of Andrew’s films, including St Elmo’s Fire and Weekend at Bernie’s Walking resources If you want to tackle the Camino de Santiago: https://santiago-compostela.net/ If you want to tackle Japan's Kumano Kodo: https://www.afar.com/magazine/disconnect-from-the-modern-world-on-a-pilgrims-path-through-japan If you just want to walk: https://www.afar.com/magazine/7-famous-pilgrimages-around-the-world-that-you-can-walk-or-cycle Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hiking Spain’s Camino de Santiago trail is one of the world’s great pilgrimages. And actor, writer, and director Andrew McCarthy has walked the 500-mile Camino Frances, not once but twice, most recently with his teen son. It’s a journey he documented in his new book, Walking with Sam (Grand Central Publishing, May 2023), and shares with us in this week’s episode.   

    Some of you may know Andrew from his work in film and TV—he starred in such ’80s classics as St. Elmo’s Fire and Weekend at Bernie’s—but here at AFAR, we’re more familiar with his work as a travel writer and editor. In 2010, he participated in one of AFAR’s first Spin the Globe trips: We spun the globe and sent Andrew to Ethiopia with less than 24 hours’ notice—a trip that culminated in his near arrest. 

    But his latest book is a quieter adventure. As his son took his first steps into adulthood, Andrew wanted to recreate his own first Camino walk—and cement their bond. As they walked (sometimes together, sometimes apart), they faced blisters and hours in the baking sun, the paradoxes of solitude and companionship, and the transformative power of the Camino pilgrimage.

    Resources

    • Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode: https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked/s2-e14-andrew-mccarthy
    • Read Andrew's Spin the Globe for AFAR: https://www.afar.com/magazine/spin-the-globe-andrew-mccarthy-in-ethiopia
    • Read Andrew’s new book, Walking with Sam: https://geni.us/2RERJ
    • Read the book that inspired Andrew’s first Camino pilgrimage, Jack Hitt’s Off the Road: https://geni.us/H6uG0
    • Read Andrew’s first book, The Longest Way Home: https://geni.us/g7I5JM
    • Watch some of Andrew’s films, including St Elmo’s Fire and Weekend at Bernie’s


    Walking resources

    • If you want to tackle the Camino de Santiago: https://santiago-compostela.net/
    • If you want to tackle Japan's Kumano Kodo: https://www.afar.com/magazine/disconnect-from-the-modern-world-on-a-pilgrims-path-through-japan
    • If you just want to walk: https://www.afar.com/magazine/7-famous-pilgrimages-around-the-world-that-you-can-walk-or-cycle


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2958 no     Why Do I Want to Stay for Another Drink? The Subconscious Power of Music in Hotels https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked Think back to the last time you stayed at a hotel: Did you notice the music playing? Maybe, maybe not. Either way, that music was likely highly curated. And this week, we explore how that music comes together—and the psychology behind it all. Our guide is Rachel Parsons, a multimedia journalist and host of the solo travel series The Peregrine Dame. Rachel, who splits her time between London and L.A., was sitting in a hotel lounge when she overheard someone actively monitoring the music in the room. Suddenly, she was paying attention to the music in a way she never had before. And she wanted to know: What exactly is happening behind the scenes? To answer her question, she spoke with everyone from the CEO of a company that curates music for hotels to a music psychologist who shares why music is so effective in creating memories and moods. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Book a night at the Andaz Liverpool Street Book a night at the NoMad London Listen to Ambie’s work Read the Psychology of Music Meet this week’s guests Rachel Parsons, multimedia journalist Gideon Chain, CEO of Ambie Alex Lamont, music psychologist Kristen Millar, creative director NoMad Hotels Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 04 May 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Why Do I Want to Stay for Another Drink? The Subconscious Power of Music in Hotels full 2 13 Afar Think back to the last time you stayed at a hotel: Did you notice the music playing? Maybe, maybe not. Either way, that music was likely highly curated. And this week, we explore how that music comes together—and the psychology behind it all. Our guide is Rachel Parsons, a multimedia journalist and host of the solo travel series The Peregrine Dame. Rachel, who splits her time between London and L.A., was sitting in a hotel lounge when she overheard someone actively monitoring the music in the room. Suddenly, she was paying attention to the music in a way she never had before. And she wanted to know: What exactly is happening behind the scenes? To answer her question, she spoke with everyone from the CEO of a company that curates music for hotels to a music psychologist who shares why music is so effective in creating memories and moods. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Book a night at the Andaz Liverpool Street Book a night at the NoMad London Listen to Ambie’s work Read the Psychology of Music Meet this week’s guests Rachel Parsons, multimedia journalist Gideon Chain, CEO of Ambie Alex Lamont, music psychologist Kristen Millar, creative director NoMad Hotels Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Think back to the last time you stayed at a hotel: Did you notice the music playing? Maybe, maybe not. Either way, that music was likely highly curated. And this week, we explore how that music comes together—and the psychology behind it all.

    Our guide is Rachel Parsons, a multimedia journalist and host of the solo travel series The Peregrine Dame. Rachel, who splits her time between London and L.A., was sitting in a hotel lounge when she overheard someone actively monitoring the music in the room. Suddenly, she was paying attention to the music in a way she never had before. And she wanted to know: What exactly is happening behind the scenes? To answer her question, she spoke with everyone from the CEO of a company that curates music for hotels to a music psychologist who shares why music is so effective in creating memories and moods.

    Resources


    Meet this week’s guests


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1723 no     Ghosts, Celebs, and Rock ’n’ Roll: A History of NYC’s Hotel Chelsea https://www.afar.com/interactive/unpacked How does the hotel that attracted luminaries like Andy Warhol, Janis Joplin, and Sid Vicious undergo a renovation without losing its gritty, celeb-packed history? In this week’s episode of Unpacked, we’re debuting “If These Walls Could Talk,” which shares the secrets behind iconic hotels, beginning with New York City’s legendary Hotel Chelsea. AFAR’s hotel editor Jennifer Flowers takes us behind the scenes, where ghosts, celebrities, and charismatic residents lurk. Meet this week’s guests Sean MacPherson, hotelier  Sherill Tippins, historian and author of Inside the Dream Palace Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Watch Dreaming Walls: Inside the Chelsea Hotel, the Martin Scorcese documentary.  Read Inside the Dream Palace, Tippins’s book about the hotel Book a night and see the history (and maybe a ghost or two) for yourself! Read more about AFAR’s 2023 Stay List, which features the Hotel Chelsea Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 27 Apr 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Ghosts, Celebs, and Rock ’n’ Roll: A History of NYC’s Hotel Chelsea full 2 12 Afar How does the hotel that attracted luminaries like Andy Warhol, Janis Joplin, and Sid Vicious undergo a renovation without losing its gritty, celeb-packed history? In this week’s episode of Unpacked, we’re debuting “If These Walls Could Talk,” which shares the secrets behind iconic hotels, beginning with New York City’s legendary Hotel Chelsea. AFAR’s hotel editor Jennifer Flowers takes us behind the scenes, where ghosts, celebrities, and charismatic residents lurk. Meet this week’s guests Sean MacPherson, hotelier  Sherill Tippins, historian and author of Inside the Dream Palace Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Watch Dreaming Walls: Inside the Chelsea Hotel, the Martin Scorcese documentary.  Read Inside the Dream Palace, Tippins’s book about the hotel Book a night and see the history (and maybe a ghost or two) for yourself! Read more about AFAR’s 2023 Stay List, which features the Hotel Chelsea Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How does the hotel that attracted luminaries like Andy Warhol, Janis Joplin, and Sid Vicious undergo a renovation without losing its gritty, celeb-packed history? In this week’s episode of Unpacked, we’re debuting “If These Walls Could Talk,” which shares the secrets behind iconic hotels, beginning with New York City’s legendary Hotel Chelsea. AFAR’s hotel editor Jennifer Flowers takes us behind the scenes, where ghosts, celebrities, and charismatic residents lurk.

    Meet this week’s guests


    Resources


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1719 no     How the Host of a Must-Watch Nature Show Deals With Climate Change https://www.afar.com/interactive/unpacked What will the Earth look like in seven years, as climate change progresses, and what we can do about it? That’s the premise of the PBS show Changing Planet, now in its second season, which is tracking six of the world’s most vulnerable ecosystems over the course of seven years.  In season one, host M. Sanjayan—CEO of Conservation International—travels to the plains of Kenya and the rivers of California to explore the effects of climate change and meet the people fighting against them. In season two, which premiered on April 19, Sanjayan travels to Australia to meet with Aboriginal people training the government in traditional fire-burning practices. This week on Unpacked, we chat with Sanjayan about the importance of Indigenous wisdom, what each of us can do to help support the planet, and how he keeps going when despair looms. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode: https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked/s2-e11-m-sanjayan-changing-planet Watch Changing Planet season 1 and season 2: https://www.pbs.org/show/changing-planet/ Find out more about Conservation International and how to donate: https://www.conservation.org/ Learn how to use carbon credits to offset your travels: https://www.afar.com/magazine/what-should-you-know-about-carbon-offsets Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 20 Apr 2023 13:34:00 -0000 How the Host of a Must-Watch Nature Show Deals With Climate Change full 2 11 Afar What will the Earth look like in seven years, as climate change progresses, and what we can do about it? That’s the premise of the PBS show Changing Planet, now in its second season, which is tracking six of the world’s most vulnerable ecosystems over the course of seven years.  In season one, host M. Sanjayan—CEO of Conservation International—travels to the plains of Kenya and the rivers of California to explore the effects of climate change and meet the people fighting against them. In season two, which premiered on April 19, Sanjayan travels to Australia to meet with Aboriginal people training the government in traditional fire-burning practices. This week on Unpacked, we chat with Sanjayan about the importance of Indigenous wisdom, what each of us can do to help support the planet, and how he keeps going when despair looms. Resources Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode: https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked/s2-e11-m-sanjayan-changing-planet Watch Changing Planet season 1 and season 2: https://www.pbs.org/show/changing-planet/ Find out more about Conservation International and how to donate: https://www.conservation.org/ Learn how to use carbon credits to offset your travels: https://www.afar.com/magazine/what-should-you-know-about-carbon-offsets Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What will the Earth look like in seven years, as climate change progresses, and what we can do about it? That’s the premise of the PBS show Changing Planet, now in its second season, which is tracking six of the world’s most vulnerable ecosystems over the course of seven years. 

    In season one, host M. Sanjayan—CEO of Conservation International—travels to the plains of Kenya and the rivers of California to explore the effects of climate change and meet the people fighting against them. In season two, which premiered on April 19, Sanjayan travels to Australia to meet with Aboriginal people training the government in traditional fire-burning practices. This week on Unpacked, we chat with Sanjayan about the importance of Indigenous wisdom, what each of us can do to help support the planet, and how he keeps going when despair looms.

    Resources

    • Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode: https://www.afar.com/podcasts/unpacked/s2-e11-m-sanjayan-changing-planet
    • Watch Changing Planet season 1 and season 2: https://www.pbs.org/show/changing-planet/
    • Find out more about Conservation International and how to donate: https://www.conservation.org/
    • Learn how to use carbon credits to offset your travels: https://www.afar.com/magazine/what-should-you-know-about-carbon-offsets


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3528 no     How to Sleep Better While Traveling https://www.afar.com/interactive/unpacked We’ve all been there: Tossing and turning on a long-haul flight, or in an unfamiliar hotel bed. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Enter Anne Bartolucci, a licensed psychologist and a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist. She’s the founder of Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services, P.C. and the author of Better Sleep for the Overachiever. In other words, she knows her sleep—and she specializes in helping people improve their sleep without medication.  In this week’s episode, host Aislyn Greene chats with Anne about the one thing everyone should bring on their next flight, the proper use of melatonin (turns out most of us don’t use it correctly), and yes, how to get a decent night’s sleep in a new destination.   Resources: Buy Anne's book on Amazon: https://geni.us/YgEIc Listen to the audio book: https://geni.us/z97HgaD Buy the book on Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781945074622 Explore her work at Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services: https://www.sleepyintheatl.com/ Follow Anne on social media: https://www.instagram.com/psychupacademy/ https://www.facebook.com/psychupacademy Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:01:00 -0000 How to Sleep Better While Traveling full 2 10 Afar We’ve all been there: Tossing and turning on a long-haul flight, or in an unfamiliar hotel bed. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Enter Anne Bartolucci, a licensed psychologist and a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist. She’s the founder of Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services, P.C. and the author of Better Sleep for the Overachiever. In other words, she knows her sleep—and she specializes in helping people improve their sleep without medication.  In this week’s episode, host Aislyn Greene chats with Anne about the one thing everyone should bring on their next flight, the proper use of melatonin (turns out most of us don’t use it correctly), and yes, how to get a decent night’s sleep in a new destination.   Resources: Buy Anne's book on Amazon: https://geni.us/YgEIc Listen to the audio book: https://geni.us/z97HgaD Buy the book on Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781945074622 Explore her work at Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services: https://www.sleepyintheatl.com/ Follow Anne on social media: https://www.instagram.com/psychupacademy/ https://www.facebook.com/psychupacademy Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We’ve all been there: Tossing and turning on a long-haul flight, or in an unfamiliar hotel bed. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Enter Anne Bartolucci, a licensed psychologist and a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist. She’s the founder of Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services, P.C. and the author of Better Sleep for the Overachiever. In other words, she knows her sleep—and she specializes in helping people improve their sleep without medication. 

    In this week’s episode, host Aislyn Greene chats with Anne about the one thing everyone should bring on their next flight, the proper use of melatonin (turns out most of us don’t use it correctly), and yes, how to get a decent night’s sleep in a new destination.  

    Resources:

    Buy Anne's book on Amazon: https://geni.us/YgEIc

    Listen to the audio book: https://geni.us/z97HgaD

    Buy the book on Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781945074622

    Explore her work at Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services: https://www.sleepyintheatl.com/

    Follow Anne on social media:

    https://www.instagram.com/psychupacademy/

    https://www.facebook.com/psychupacademy


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2180 no     Into the Heart of North America's Iceland https://www.northamericanapodcast.com/ This week, we’re heading to Iceland—well, kinda. We’re actually exploring the Viking hearts of New Icelanders, from Gimli, Manitoba to Mountain, North Dakota. Two towns divided by a border, but forever linked by their surprisingly storied and deep Icelandic roots.  Liz Beatty, host of the North Americana podcast, will be our guide to foam swords, Icelandic folk songs no child should hear, and an epic Viking battle reenactment at Gimli’s annual Icelandic festival. We’ll also meet a real, live fjallkonan. Want to know what that means? Tune in to find out. Bonus: This week, we’re hosting travel trivia at the end of the episode! Resources: Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Look at photos and listen to the full tracks of the songs featured in the episode.  Visit Íslendingadagurinn, the Gimli Icelandic Festival, which takes place this year from August 4–7. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 06 Apr 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Into the Heart of North America's Iceland full 2 9 Afar This week, we’re heading to Iceland—well, kinda. We’re actually exploring the Viking hearts of New Icelanders, from Gimli, Manitoba to Mountain, North Dakota. Two towns divided by a border, but forever linked by their surprisingly storied and deep Icelandic roots.  Liz Beatty, host of the North Americana podcast, will be our guide to foam swords, Icelandic folk songs no child should hear, and an epic Viking battle reenactment at Gimli’s annual Icelandic festival. We’ll also meet a real, live fjallkonan. Want to know what that means? Tune in to find out. Bonus: This week, we’re hosting travel trivia at the end of the episode! Resources: Read this week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Look at photos and listen to the full tracks of the songs featured in the episode.  Visit Íslendingadagurinn, the Gimli Icelandic Festival, which takes place this year from August 4–7. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This week, we’re heading to Iceland—well, kinda. We’re actually exploring the Viking hearts of New Icelanders, from Gimli, Manitoba to Mountain, North Dakota. Two towns divided by a border, but forever linked by their surprisingly storied and deep Icelandic roots. 

    Liz Beatty, host of the North Americana podcast, will be our guide to foam swords, Icelandic folk songs no child should hear, and an epic Viking battle reenactment at Gimli’s annual Icelandic festival. We’ll also meet a real, live fjallkonan. Want to know what that means? Tune in to find out.

    Bonus: This week, we’re hosting travel trivia at the end of the episode!

    Resources:


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2529 no     A National Parks Road Trip for the Ages https://www.afar.com/interactive/unpacked In early 2020, journalist Emily Pennington set out on a year-long road trip to visit all 62 national parks in the United States. A few months into her journey the pandemic struck, turning her life upside down. She chronicled it all in her new memoir, Feral (Little A, February 2023). In this episode, Emily shares her journey, what our national parks can represent (or not), and what kept her going when it seemed like the wheels were about to fall off, metaphorically speaking. Resources & book/audiobook links Follow Emily's adventures: https://brazenbackpacker.com/ Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781542039710 Amazon: https://geni.us/inPj4 Audiobook: https://geni.us/4uQyqs Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 30 Mar 2023 07:01:00 -0000 A National Parks Road Trip for the Ages full 2 8 Afar In early 2020, journalist Emily Pennington set out on a year-long road trip to visit all 62 national parks in the United States. A few months into her journey the pandemic struck, turning her life upside down. She chronicled it all in her new memoir, Feral (Little A, February 2023). In this episode, Emily shares her journey, what our national parks can represent (or not), and what kept her going when it seemed like the wheels were about to fall off, metaphorically speaking. Resources & book/audiobook links Follow Emily's adventures: https://brazenbackpacker.com/ Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781542039710 Amazon: https://geni.us/inPj4 Audiobook: https://geni.us/4uQyqs Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In early 2020, journalist Emily Pennington set out on a year-long road trip to visit all 62 national parks in the United States. A few months into her journey the pandemic struck, turning her life upside down. She chronicled it all in her new memoir, Feral (Little A, February 2023). In this episode, Emily shares her journey, what our national parks can represent (or not), and what kept her going when it seemed like the wheels were about to fall off, metaphorically speaking.

    Resources & book/audiobook links

    Follow Emily's adventures: https://brazenbackpacker.com/

    Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781542039710

    Amazon: https://geni.us/inPj4

    Audiobook: https://geni.us/4uQyqs


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3248 no     Tourism Was Destroying Kerala. So Kerala Fought Back. Kerala is one of the most striking states in southern India, with sandy beaches, lagoons, and cultural traditions that are magnets for travelers. But 15 years ago, tourism was taking its toll. Rice paddies were being destroyed to build resorts and hotels. Waste had become unmanageable. Locals weren’t benefiting economically. It’s a story that could’ve been a downward spiral, and yet it wasn’t.  In this week’s episode, journalist Paige McClanahan—host of the Better Travel Podcast—travels to Kerala to learn how the government responded and to witness the radical changes that followed. As she explores temples, kayaks through lagoons, and speaks with residents, she discovers that those changes have vastly improved the lives of locals (and travelers)—and could have a profound impact on communities around the world. Resources: This week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Inspired to travel to Kerala? Check out the AFAR Guide to Kerala. And don’t miss out on one of the Village Life Experiences Paige explores in the episode. Meet this week’s guests: Paige McClanahan, host of the Better Travel Podcast Dr. Harold Goodwin, founder and director of the International Center for Responsible Tourism Rupesh Kumar, responsible tourism mission coordinator for the state of Kerala Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 23 Mar 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Tourism Was Destroying Kerala. So Kerala Fought Back. full 2 7 Afar Kerala is one of the most striking states in southern India, with sandy beaches, lagoons, and cultural traditions that are magnets for travelers. But 15 years ago, tourism was taking its toll. Rice paddies were being destroyed to build resorts and hotels. Waste had become unmanageable. Locals weren’t benefiting economically. It’s a story that could’ve been a downward spiral, and yet it wasn’t.  In this week’s episode, journalist Paige McClanahan—host of the Better Travel Podcast—travels to Kerala to learn how the government responded and to witness the radical changes that followed. As she explores temples, kayaks through lagoons, and speaks with residents, she discovers that those changes have vastly improved the lives of locals (and travelers)—and could have a profound impact on communities around the world. Resources: This week’s show notes, including a full transcript of the episode. Inspired to travel to Kerala? Check out the AFAR Guide to Kerala. And don’t miss out on one of the Village Life Experiences Paige explores in the episode. Meet this week’s guests: Paige McClanahan, host of the Better Travel Podcast Dr. Harold Goodwin, founder and director of the International Center for Responsible Tourism Rupesh Kumar, responsible tourism mission coordinator for the state of Kerala Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Kerala is one of the most striking states in southern India, with sandy beaches, lagoons, and cultural traditions that are magnets for travelers. But 15 years ago, tourism was taking its toll. Rice paddies were being destroyed to build resorts and hotels. Waste had become unmanageable. Locals weren’t benefiting economically. It’s a story that could’ve been a downward spiral, and yet it wasn’t. 

    In this week’s episode, journalist Paige McClanahan—host of the Better Travel Podcast—travels to Kerala to learn how the government responded and to witness the radical changes that followed. As she explores temples, kayaks through lagoons, and speaks with residents, she discovers that those changes have vastly improved the lives of locals (and travelers)—and could have a profound impact on communities around the world.

    Resources:

    Meet this week’s guests:


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1597 no     Part II: A Man, a Dog, a Walk Around the World In 2015, Tom Turcich—and his dog, Savannah—left his home to begin a walk around the world that would span 7 years, 28,000 miles, 38 countries, and 6 continents. Over the course of those years, he spoke to Jason Moore—host of the Zero to Travel podcast—three different times. And over the course of the next two episodes, we'll hear those conversations. If you haven't listened to part one, which we ran last week, we recommend you start there! In part two, Jason shares his first conversation with Tom, 15 months into the walk, and part of the second, about almost four years into the walk. Their conversations run from the logistics and reality (and pain!) of walking up to 20 miles every day to the lessons we can glean from these kind of journey—lesson that reveal what it means to be human. Follow Jason Moore Follow Tom Turcich (and Savannah) And read the AFAR story that inspired the headline for this episode Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 16 Mar 2023 07:01:00 -0000 Part II: A Man, a Dog, a Walk Around the World full 2 6 Afar In 2015, Tom Turcich—and his dog, Savannah—left his home to begin a walk around the world that would span 7 years, 28,000 miles, 38 countries, and 6 continents. Over the course of those years, he spoke to Jason Moore—host of the Zero to Travel podcast—three different times. And over the course of the next two episodes, we'll hear those conversations. If you haven't listened to part one, which we ran last week, we recommend you start there! In part two, Jason shares his first conversation with Tom, 15 months into the walk, and part of the second, about almost four years into the walk. Their conversations run from the logistics and reality (and pain!) of walking up to 20 miles every day to the lessons we can glean from these kind of journey—lesson that reveal what it means to be human. Follow Jason Moore Follow Tom Turcich (and Savannah) And read the AFAR story that inspired the headline for this episode Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In 2015, Tom Turcich—and his dog, Savannah—left his home to begin a walk around the world that would span 7 years, 28,000 miles, 38 countries, and 6 continents. Over the course of those years, he spoke to Jason Moore—host of the Zero to Travel podcast—three different times. And over the course of the next two episodes, we'll hear those conversations.

    If you haven't listened to part one, which we ran last week, we recommend you start there! In part two, Jason shares his first conversation with Tom, 15 months into the walk, and part of the second, about almost four years into the walk. Their conversations run from the logistics and reality (and pain!) of walking up to 20 miles every day to the lessons we can glean from these kind of journey—lesson that reveal what it means to be human.

    Follow Jason Moore

    Follow Tom Turcich (and Savannah)

    And read the AFAR story that inspired the headline for this episode


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     5867 no     Part I: A Man, a Dog, a Walk Around the World In 2015, Tom Turcich—and his dog, Savannah—left his home to begin a walk around the world that would span 7 years, 28,000 miles, 38 countries, and 6 continents. Over the course of those years, he spoke to Jason Moore—host of the Zero to Travel podcast—three different times. And over the course of the next two episodes, we'll hear those conversations. In part one, Jason shares his first conversation with Tom, 15 months into the walk, and part of the second, about almost four years into the walk. Their conversations run from the logistics and reality (and pain!) of walking up to 20 miles every day to the lessons we can glean from these kind of journey—lesson that reveal what it means to be human. Follow Jason Moore: https://zerototravel.com/ Follow Tom Turcich (and Savannah): https://www.tomturcich.com/ And read the AFAR story that inspired the headline for this episode: https://www.afar.com/magazine/tom-turcich-and-the-world-walk Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 09 Mar 2023 15:34:00 -0000 A Man, a Dog, a Walk Around the World: Part I full 2 5 Afar In 2015, Tom Turcich—and his dog, Savannah—left his home to begin a walk around the world that would span 7 years, 28,000 miles, 38 countries, and 6 continents. Over the course of those years, he spoke to Jason Moore—host of the Zero to Travel podcast—three different times. And over the course of the next two episodes, we'll hear those conversations. In part one, Jason shares his first conversation with Tom, 15 months into the walk, and part of the second, about almost four years into the walk. Their conversations run from the logistics and reality (and pain!) of walking up to 20 miles every day to the lessons we can glean from these kind of journey—lesson that reveal what it means to be human. Follow Jason Moore: https://zerototravel.com/ Follow Tom Turcich (and Savannah): https://www.tomturcich.com/ And read the AFAR story that inspired the headline for this episode: https://www.afar.com/magazine/tom-turcich-and-the-world-walk Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In 2015, Tom Turcich—and his dog, Savannah—left his home to begin a walk around the world that would span 7 years, 28,000 miles, 38 countries, and 6 continents. Over the course of those years, he spoke to Jason Moore—host of the Zero to Travel podcast—three different times. And over the course of the next two episodes, we'll hear those conversations.

    In part one, Jason shares his first conversation with Tom, 15 months into the walk, and part of the second, about almost four years into the walk. Their conversations run from the logistics and reality (and pain!) of walking up to 20 miles every day to the lessons we can glean from these kind of journey—lesson that reveal what it means to be human.

    Follow Jason Moore: https://zerototravel.com/

    Follow Tom Turcich (and Savannah): https://www.tomturcich.com/

    And read the AFAR story that inspired the headline for this episode: https://www.afar.com/magazine/tom-turcich-and-the-world-walk


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     6656 no     How Travel Can Help Us Grieve https://www.afar.com/interactive/unpacked We turn to travel for a thousand different things: Connection, adventure, vacation, learning, family, the list goes on. One element of life and travel we don’t often discuss is grief. But today, we’re going to. In this episode, Erin Hynes—host of the podcast Curious Tourism—shares the ways that we can use travel to navigate some of the more difficult elements of life. She shares her own story and interviews two experts with very different experiences around grief. Follow Erin: http://pinatravels.org/ https://www.instagram.com/pinatravels/ https://twitter.com/pinatravels Follow Zac: https://www.workinprogressto.ca/zac https://www.instagram.com/zed_eh_see/ Follow Andrew: https://www.andrewsteven.com/ https://trailweight.com/ Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 02 Mar 2023 08:01:00 -0000 How Travel Can Help Us Grieve full 2 4 Afar We turn to travel for a thousand different things: Connection, adventure, vacation, learning, family, the list goes on. One element of life and travel we don’t often discuss is grief. But today, we’re going to. In this episode, Erin Hynes—host of the podcast Curious Tourism—shares the ways that we can use travel to navigate some of the more difficult elements of life. She shares her own story and interviews two experts with very different experiences around grief. Follow Erin: http://pinatravels.org/ https://www.instagram.com/pinatravels/ https://twitter.com/pinatravels Follow Zac: https://www.workinprogressto.ca/zac https://www.instagram.com/zed_eh_see/ Follow Andrew: https://www.andrewsteven.com/ https://trailweight.com/ Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We turn to travel for a thousand different things: Connection, adventure, vacation, learning, family, the list goes on. One element of life and travel we don’t often discuss is grief. But today, we’re going to.

    In this episode, Erin Hynes—host of the podcast Curious Tourism—shares the ways that we can use travel to navigate some of the more difficult elements of life. She shares her own story and interviews two experts with very different experiences around grief.

    Follow Erin:

    http://pinatravels.org/

    https://www.instagram.com/pinatravels/

    https://twitter.com/pinatravels

    Follow Zac:

    https://www.workinprogressto.ca/zac

    https://www.instagram.com/zed_eh_see/

    Follow Andrew:

    https://www.andrewsteven.com/

    https://trailweight.com/


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2107 no     How to Travel, and Soothe Your Anxiety, in a Climate-Changing World https://www.afar.com/interactive/unpacked It’s no secret that our climate is changing fast. From hurricanes to wildfires, those changes are impacting us more and more each year. How do we deal with the anxiety? And more specifically, how do we travel safely, smartly, and compassionately, in a climate-changing world? In this episode, AFAR senior news editor Michelle Baran shares her own experiences with climate anxiety, and talks with two experts about how we can find some peace—and travel with confidence.  Learn more about neuropsychologist Dr. Sanam Hafeez: http://comprehendthemind.com/ Learn more about International SOS: https://www.internationalsos.com/ This season, we want to hear from you! Have a question for us to unpack? Let us know at afar.com/feedback or email us at unpacked@afar.com  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 23 Feb 2023 08:01:00 -0000 How to Travel, and Soothe Your Anxiety, in a Climate-Changing World full 2 3 Afar It’s no secret that our climate is changing fast. From hurricanes to wildfires, those changes are impacting us more and more each year. How do we deal with the anxiety? And more specifically, how do we travel safely, smartly, and compassionately, in a climate-changing world? In this episode, AFAR senior news editor Michelle Baran shares her own experiences with climate anxiety, and talks with two experts about how we can find some peace—and travel with confidence.  Learn more about neuropsychologist Dr. Sanam Hafeez: http://comprehendthemind.com/ Learn more about International SOS: https://www.internationalsos.com/ This season, we want to hear from you! Have a question for us to unpack? Let us know at afar.com/feedback or email us at unpacked@afar.com  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It’s no secret that our climate is changing fast. From hurricanes to wildfires, those changes are impacting us more and more each year. How do we deal with the anxiety? And more specifically, how do we travel safely, smartly, and compassionately, in a climate-changing world? In this episode, AFAR senior news editor Michelle Baran shares her own experiences with climate anxiety, and talks with two experts about how we can find some peace—and travel with confidence. 

    Learn more about neuropsychologist Dr. Sanam Hafeez: http://comprehendthemind.com/

    Learn more about International SOS: https://www.internationalsos.com/

    This season, we want to hear from you! Have a question for us to unpack? Let us know at afar.com/feedback or email us at unpacked@afar.com 


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     3422 no     Happy New(ish) Year! Now, Go Hug a Tree https://www.afar.com/interactive/unpacked Hey, listeners! Have you ever hugged a tree? If not, today's episode might inspire you to. AFAR editor Aislyn Greene talks with forest-bathing guide, Ben Page, about our tall, leafy friends: Why they're so good for us, where to forest bathe in the United States, and how to bring the forest-bathing mindset wherever you go. Ben Page's company, Integral Forest Bathing: https://www.integralforestbathing.com/ And his book, A Pocket Guide to Forest Bathing: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781647224189 If you want to learn more about Mountain Trek: https://www.mountaintrek.com/ Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 16 Feb 2023 14:59:00 -0000 Forest Bathing Is for Everyone—Really! full 2 2 Afar Hey, listeners! Have you ever hugged a tree? If not, today's episode might inspire you to. AFAR editor Aislyn Greene talks with forest-bathing guide, Ben Page, about our tall, leafy friends: Why they're so good for us, where to forest bathe in the United States, and how to bring the forest-bathing mindset wherever you go. Ben Page's company, Integral Forest Bathing: https://www.integralforestbathing.com/ And his book, A Pocket Guide to Forest Bathing: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781647224189 If you want to learn more about Mountain Trek: https://www.mountaintrek.com/ Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hey, listeners! Have you ever hugged a tree? If not, today's episode might inspire you to. AFAR editor Aislyn Greene talks with forest-bathing guide, Ben Page, about our tall, leafy friends: Why they're so good for us, where to forest bathe in the United States, and how to bring the forest-bathing mindset wherever you go.

    Ben Page's company, Integral Forest Bathing: https://www.integralforestbathing.com/

    And his book, A Pocket Guide to Forest Bathing: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781647224189

    If you want to learn more about Mountain Trek: https://www.mountaintrek.com/


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2858 no     The Best Places to Travel in 2023 https://www.afar.com/interactive/unpacked Where should I go this year? It's our favorite question—and (we hope) yours! For our annual where to go list, we handpicked 12 unique destinations, from the Great Lakes to Tasmania. We offer ideas for every type of traveler, whether you want to bicycle along Prince Edward Island's new Island Walk, eat seafood and listen to music in the Brazilian city of Salvador, or appreciate art and architecture in the United Arab Emirates' Sharjah. In this episode, we're unpacking the list with AFAR editorial director Sarika Bansal, deputy editor Tim Chester, and freelancer travel writer Ashlea Halpern. The three also weigh in on travel trends for 2023, the realities of traveling with little kids, and other tips for making 2023 your best travel year yet. Read more at https://afar.com/wtg2023. And don't forget to follow our editors: Sarika: https://www.instagram.com/sarika008/ Ashlea: https://www.instagram.com/ashleahalpern Tim: https://www.instagram.com/timchester Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 09 Feb 2023 08:01:00 -0000 The Best Places to Travel in 2023 full 2 1 Afar Where should I go this year? It's our favorite question—and (we hope) yours! For our annual where to go list, we handpicked 12 unique destinations, from the Great Lakes to Tasmania. We offer ideas for every type of traveler, whether you want to bicycle along Prince Edward Island's new Island Walk, eat seafood and listen to music in the Brazilian city of Salvador, or appreciate art and architecture in the United Arab Emirates' Sharjah. In this episode, we're unpacking the list with AFAR editorial director Sarika Bansal, deputy editor Tim Chester, and freelancer travel writer Ashlea Halpern. The three also weigh in on travel trends for 2023, the realities of traveling with little kids, and other tips for making 2023 your best travel year yet. Read more at https://afar.com/wtg2023. And don't forget to follow our editors: Sarika: https://www.instagram.com/sarika008/ Ashlea: https://www.instagram.com/ashleahalpern Tim: https://www.instagram.com/timchester Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Where should I go this year? It's our favorite question—and (we hope) yours! For our annual where to go list, we handpicked 12 unique destinations, from the Great Lakes to Tasmania. We offer ideas for every type of traveler, whether you want to bicycle along Prince Edward Island's new Island Walk, eat seafood and listen to music in the Brazilian city of Salvador, or appreciate art and architecture in the United Arab Emirates' Sharjah.

    In this episode, we're unpacking the list with AFAR editorial director Sarika Bansal, deputy editor Tim Chester, and freelancer travel writer Ashlea Halpern. The three also weigh in on travel trends for 2023, the realities of traveling with little kids, and other tips for making 2023 your best travel year yet.

    Read more at https://afar.com/wtg2023. And don't forget to follow our editors:

    Sarika: https://www.instagram.com/sarika008/

    Ashlea: https://www.instagram.com/ashleahalpern

    Tim: https://www.instagram.com/timchester

    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2760 no     Unpacked Is Back! (And a Little Different) https://www.afar.com/interactive/unpacked It's a bright, shiny new year, which means a bright, shiny new year of travel. Here at AFAR, we're bursting with ideas and enthusiasm—and we want to share it all with you. Before you dive in, just a note that Unpacked will sound a little different this year: We'll still be unpacking the trickiest topics in travel, but we'll also touch on issues and trends like forest-bathing, climate change anxiety, using travel to heal grief, and our picks for where to go in 2023. And this season, we also want to hear from you! What travel topics do you want us to unpack? Share your thoughts at afar.com/feedback or email us at unpacked@afar.com. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 27 Jan 2023 08:01:00 -0000 Unpacked Is Back! (And a Little Different) trailer 2 Afar It's a bright, shiny new year, which means a bright, shiny new year of travel. Here at AFAR, we're bursting with ideas and enthusiasm—and we want to share it all with you. Before you dive in, just a note that Unpacked will sound a little different this year: We'll still be unpacking the trickiest topics in travel, but we'll also touch on issues and trends like forest-bathing, climate change anxiety, using travel to heal grief, and our picks for where to go in 2023. And this season, we also want to hear from you! What travel topics do you want us to unpack? Share your thoughts at afar.com/feedback or email us at unpacked@afar.com. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's a bright, shiny new year, which means a bright, shiny new year of travel. Here at AFAR, we're bursting with ideas and enthusiasm—and we want to share it all with you. Before you dive in, just a note that Unpacked will sound a little different this year: We'll still be unpacking the trickiest topics in travel, but we'll also touch on issues and trends like forest-bathing, climate change anxiety, using travel to heal grief, and our picks for where to go in 2023.

    And this season, we also want to hear from you! What travel topics do you want us to unpack? Share your thoughts at afar.com/feedback or email us at unpacked@afar.com.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     144 no     Is This Appropriate? How to (and How Not to) Engage With Cultural Tourism Have you ever wanted to take a picture during your travels, but you weren’t sure if it was OK? Or have you come across a traditional performance and wondered whether you should be there at all? In this episode, we explore the sometimes uncomfortable power dynamics at play in cultural tourism—and how to navigate them with ease. Resources For more about Bangarra: https://www.bangarra.com.au/  To explore Wild Expeditions Africa: https://wild-expeditions.africa/ To learn more about from the World Bank on Indigenous Peoples: https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/indigenouspeoples Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 25 Aug 2022 18:24:00 -0000 Is This Appropriate? How to (and How Not to) Engage With Cultural Tourism full 1 6 Afar Have you ever wanted to take a picture during your travels, but you weren’t sure if it was OK? Or have you come across a traditional performance and wondered whether you should be there at all? In this episode, we explore the sometimes uncomfortable power dynamics at play in cultural tourism—and how to navigate them with ease. Resources For more about Bangarra: https://www.bangarra.com.au/  To explore Wild Expeditions Africa: https://wild-expeditions.africa/ To learn more about from the World Bank on Indigenous Peoples: https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/indigenouspeoples Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Have you ever wanted to take a picture during your travels, but you weren’t sure if it was OK? Or have you come across a traditional performance and wondered whether you should be there at all? In this episode, we explore the sometimes uncomfortable power dynamics at play in cultural tourism—and how to navigate them with ease.

    Resources

    For more about Bangarra: https://www.bangarra.com.au/ 

    To explore Wild Expeditions Africa: https://wild-expeditions.africa/

    To learn more about from the World Bank on Indigenous Peoples: https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/indigenouspeoples


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1950 no     The Truth About Accessibility and Travel When it comes to travel, accessibility is often an afterthought. But it shouldn't be. Qudsiya Naqui, host of the Down to the Struts podcast, takes on a journey into the world of accessible travel. She speaks with writer Bani Amor, wilderness specialist Erika Rivers, and Maayan Ziv, the founder of AccessNow, a mobile app that helps travelers find and share accessibility information. Resources: You can learn more about Qudsiya and the Down to the Struts team at downtothestruts.com. Learn more about disability experiences through media and culture. The Disability Visibility Project created by Alice Wong is a great place to start. You can find blog posts and interviews with members of the disability community at disabilityvisibilityproject.org. See what Erika Rivers and her team at Wilderness Inquiry are doing at https://www.wildernessinquiry.org/ Explore Maayan Ziv and AccessNow at https://accessnow.com Follow Bani Amor on Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/baniamor/?hl=en Special thanks to Story District in Washington D.C. for permission to share original audio from their March 2020 show, “She Comes First.” You can learn more about Story District by visiting storydistrict.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 11 Aug 2022 07:01:00 -0000 The Truth About Accessibility and Travel full 1 5 Afar When it comes to travel, accessibility is often an afterthought. But it shouldn't be. Qudsiya Naqui, host of the Down to the Struts podcast, takes on a journey into the world of accessible travel. She speaks with writer Bani Amor, wilderness specialist Erika Rivers, and Maayan Ziv, the founder of AccessNow, a mobile app that helps travelers find and share accessibility information. Resources: You can learn more about Qudsiya and the Down to the Struts team at downtothestruts.com. Learn more about disability experiences through media and culture. The Disability Visibility Project created by Alice Wong is a great place to start. You can find blog posts and interviews with members of the disability community at disabilityvisibilityproject.org. See what Erika Rivers and her team at Wilderness Inquiry are doing at https://www.wildernessinquiry.org/ Explore Maayan Ziv and AccessNow at https://accessnow.com Follow Bani Amor on Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/baniamor/?hl=en Special thanks to Story District in Washington D.C. for permission to share original audio from their March 2020 show, “She Comes First.” You can learn more about Story District by visiting storydistrict.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices When it comes to travel, accessibility is often an afterthought. But it shouldn't be. Qudsiya Naqui, host of the Down to the Struts podcast, takes on a journey into the world of accessible travel. She speaks with writer Bani Amor, wilderness specialist Erika Rivers, and Maayan Ziv, the founder of AccessNow, a mobile app that helps travelers find and share accessibility information.

    Resources:

    You can learn more about Qudsiya and the Down to the Struts team at downtothestruts.com.

    Learn more about disability experiences through media and culture. The Disability Visibility Project created by Alice Wong is a great place to start. You can find blog posts and interviews with members of the disability community at disabilityvisibilityproject.org.

    See what Erika Rivers and her team at Wilderness Inquiry are doing at https://www.wildernessinquiry.org/

    Explore Maayan Ziv and AccessNow at https://accessnow.com

    Follow Bani Amor on Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/baniamor/?hl=en

    Special thanks to Story District in Washington D.C. for permission to share original audio from their March 2020 show, “She Comes First.” You can learn more about Story District by visiting storydistrict.org.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2208 no     What in the World Is 'Regenerative Travel'? https://www.afar.com/interactive/unpacked What in the world is regenerative travel? Kristy Drutman, host of the Brown Girl Green podcast, takes us deep in the world of green travel, where sustainability is about so much more than carbon offsets. Resources Brown Girl Green: https://www.browngirlgreen.com/ Amando Ho: https://www.regenerativetravel.com/ Paco Guerrero: https://www.gridmagazine.ph/ Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 28 Jul 2022 07:01:00 -0000 What in the World Is 'Regenerative Travel'? full 1 4 Afar What in the world is regenerative travel? Kristy Drutman, host of the Brown Girl Green podcast, takes us deep in the world of green travel, where sustainability is about so much more than carbon offsets. Resources Brown Girl Green: https://www.browngirlgreen.com/ Amando Ho: https://www.regenerativetravel.com/ Paco Guerrero: https://www.gridmagazine.ph/ Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What in the world is regenerative travel? Kristy Drutman, host of the Brown Girl Green podcast, takes us deep in the world of green travel, where sustainability is about so much more than carbon offsets.

    Resources

    Brown Girl Green: https://www.browngirlgreen.com/

    Amando Ho: https://www.regenerativetravel.com/

    Paco Guerrero: https://www.gridmagazine.ph/


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2247     Is It Really Possible to Travel Like a Local? https://afar.com/ What does it mean when we say we want to "travel like a local?" It's a well-intentioned phrase, but also, well, impossible. In this episode, we'll unpack the concept of local travel. We’ll share tips on how to better connect in a new place, how to embrace our outsider status, and basically how asking ourselves these big questions can make our trips more fulfilling, and make us better guests in the world. Resources: Eric Weiner's essay: https://www.afar.com/magazine/five-ways-to-travel-more-responsibly Eric's book, The Socrates Express: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781501129025 The digital accompaniment to the Unpacked podcast: https://www.afar.com/travel-inspiration/travel-for-good Dr. Anu Taranath: https://www.anutaranath.com/ Dr. Anu's Book: Beyond Guilt Trips, Mindful Travel in an Unequal World: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781771134323 Jini Reddy: https://www.jinireddy.co.uk/ Jini's book, Wanderland: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781472951953 Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 14 Jul 2022 17:16:00 -0000 Is It Really Possible to Travel Like a Local? full 1 3 Afar What does it mean when we say we want to "travel like a local?" It's a well-intentioned phrase, but also, well, impossible. In this episode, we'll unpack the concept of local travel. We’ll share tips on how to better connect in a new place, how to embrace our outsider status, and basically how asking ourselves these big questions can make our trips more fulfilling, and make us better guests in the world. Resources: Eric Weiner's essay: https://www.afar.com/magazine/five-ways-to-travel-more-responsibly Eric's book, The Socrates Express: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781501129025 The digital accompaniment to the Unpacked podcast: https://www.afar.com/travel-inspiration/travel-for-good Dr. Anu Taranath: https://www.anutaranath.com/ Dr. Anu's Book: Beyond Guilt Trips, Mindful Travel in an Unequal World: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781771134323 Jini Reddy: https://www.jinireddy.co.uk/ Jini's book, Wanderland: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781472951953 Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What does it mean when we say we want to "travel like a local?" It's a well-intentioned phrase, but also, well, impossible. In this episode, we'll unpack the concept of local travel. We’ll share tips on how to better connect in a new place, how to embrace our outsider status, and basically how asking ourselves these big questions can make our trips more fulfilling, and make us better guests in the world.

    Resources:

    Eric Weiner's essay: https://www.afar.com/magazine/five-ways-to-travel-more-responsibly

    Eric's book, The Socrates Express: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781501129025

    The digital accompaniment to the Unpacked podcast: https://www.afar.com/travel-inspiration/travel-for-good

    Dr. Anu Taranath: https://www.anutaranath.com/

    Dr. Anu's Book: Beyond Guilt Trips, Mindful Travel in an Unequal World: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781771134323

    Jini Reddy: https://www.jinireddy.co.uk/

    Jini's book, Wanderland: https://bookshop.org/a/2660/9781472951953


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2502 no     How to Navigate the Wild World of Animal Tourism https://afar.com/ There's nothing quite like a magical, transportive animal encounter—but how do we ensure those encounters are good for the animals (and good for the places we visit)? Journalist Byron Pace, host of the Into the Wilderness Podcast, takes us on a journey around the world, talking with wildlife experts ranging from a shark scientist in Australia to a California-based biologist. This episode is sponsored by Explore Asheville, who shares our belief in the power of ethical travel. https://www.exploreasheville.com/ Resources: Hear more from Byron's guests and from Byron himself at modernhuntsman.com/podcast. Dan Blumstein: https://www.ioes.ucla.edu/person/daniel-blumstein/ Dan's book, Ecotourism's Promise and Peril: https://geni.us/dTFm Melissa Cristina Márquez: https://www.melissacristinamarquez.com/ Pete Carr of the Endangered Species Protection Agency: https://speciesprotectionusa.org/ Sarah Roberts: https://www.sarahrobertsofficial.com/work-with-me Lucas Bustamante, Tropical Herping: https://www.tropicalherping.com/about/lucas_bustamante.html Have a travel conundrum you want us to unpack? Tweet us, DM us on Instagram, or post on our Facebook page. Twitter: https://twitter.com/AFARmedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afarmedia/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfarMedia/ Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 30 Jun 2022 14:08:00 -0000 How to Navigate the Wild World of Animal Tourism full 1 2 Afar There's nothing quite like a magical, transportive animal encounter—but how do we ensure those encounters are good for the animals (and good for the places we visit)? Journalist Byron Pace, host of the Into the Wilderness Podcast, takes us on a journey around the world, talking with wildlife experts ranging from a shark scientist in Australia to a California-based biologist. This episode is sponsored by Explore Asheville, who shares our belief in the power of ethical travel. https://www.exploreasheville.com/ Resources: Hear more from Byron's guests and from Byron himself at modernhuntsman.com/podcast. Dan Blumstein: https://www.ioes.ucla.edu/person/daniel-blumstein/ Dan's book, Ecotourism's Promise and Peril: https://geni.us/dTFm Melissa Cristina Márquez: https://www.melissacristinamarquez.com/ Pete Carr of the Endangered Species Protection Agency: https://speciesprotectionusa.org/ Sarah Roberts: https://www.sarahrobertsofficial.com/work-with-me Lucas Bustamante, Tropical Herping: https://www.tropicalherping.com/about/lucas_bustamante.html Have a travel conundrum you want us to unpack? Tweet us, DM us on Instagram, or post on our Facebook page. Twitter: https://twitter.com/AFARmedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afarmedia/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfarMedia/ Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices There's nothing quite like a magical, transportive animal encounter—but how do we ensure those encounters are good for the animals (and good for the places we visit)? Journalist Byron Pace, host of the Into the Wilderness Podcast, takes us on a journey around the world, talking with wildlife experts ranging from a shark scientist in Australia to a California-based biologist.

    This episode is sponsored by Explore Asheville, who shares our belief in the power of ethical travel. https://www.exploreasheville.com/

    Resources:

    Hear more from Byron's guests and from Byron himself at modernhuntsman.com/podcast.

    Dan Blumstein: https://www.ioes.ucla.edu/person/daniel-blumstein/

    Dan's book, Ecotourism's Promise and Peril: https://geni.us/dTFm

    Melissa Cristina Márquez: https://www.melissacristinamarquez.com/

    Pete Carr of the Endangered Species Protection Agency: https://speciesprotectionusa.org/

    Sarah Roberts: https://www.sarahrobertsofficial.com/work-with-me

    Lucas Bustamante, Tropical Herping: https://www.tropicalherping.com/about/lucas_bustamante.html

    Have a travel conundrum you want us to unpack? Tweet us, DM us on Instagram, or post on our Facebook page.

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/AFARmedia

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afarmedia/?hl=en

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfarMedia/


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     2780 no     Let's Scale Back That Revenge Travel, Shall We? https://afar.com/ Today, we're talking about revenge. Well, sort of. In this episode, writer Paige McClanahan—host of the Better Travel Podcast—explores the concept of "revenge travel." While it's so tempting to want to take revenge on the time we lost to Covid, Paige invites us to think more deeply about our impact on communities around the world, many of which are more vulnerable coming out of the pandemic. Through conversations with Harold Goodwin of the UK-based Responsible Tourism Partnership and Judy Kepher-Gona, of Kenya's Sustainable Travel & Tourism Agenda, Paige offers tips on how to be kinder, more aware travelers—and how to have a little fun along the way. This episode is sponsored by Explore Asheville, who shares our belief in the power of ethical travel. https://www.exploreasheville.com/ Resources: Paige McClanahan: https://www.paigemcclanahan.com/ Harold Goodwin: https://responsibletourismpartnership.org/who-we-are/ Judy Kepher-Gona: https://sttakenya.org/ Have a travel conundrum you want us to unpack? Tweet us, DM us on Instagram, or post on our Facebook page. Twitter: https://twitter.com/AFARmedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afarmedia/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfarMedia/ Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 16 Jun 2022 16:27:00 -0000 Let's Scale Back That Revenge Travel, Shall We? full 1 1 Afar Today, we're talking about revenge. Well, sort of. In this episode, writer Paige McClanahan—host of the Better Travel Podcast—explores the concept of "revenge travel." While it's so tempting to want to take revenge on the time we lost to Covid, Paige invites us to think more deeply about our impact on communities around the world, many of which are more vulnerable coming out of the pandemic. Through conversations with Harold Goodwin of the UK-based Responsible Tourism Partnership and Judy Kepher-Gona, of Kenya's Sustainable Travel & Tourism Agenda, Paige offers tips on how to be kinder, more aware travelers—and how to have a little fun along the way. This episode is sponsored by Explore Asheville, who shares our belief in the power of ethical travel. https://www.exploreasheville.com/ Resources: Paige McClanahan: https://www.paigemcclanahan.com/ Harold Goodwin: https://responsibletourismpartnership.org/who-we-are/ Judy Kepher-Gona: https://sttakenya.org/ Have a travel conundrum you want us to unpack? Tweet us, DM us on Instagram, or post on our Facebook page. Twitter: https://twitter.com/AFARmedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afarmedia/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfarMedia/ Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Today, we're talking about revenge. Well, sort of. In this episode, writer Paige McClanahan—host of the Better Travel Podcast—explores the concept of "revenge travel." While it's so tempting to want to take revenge on the time we lost to Covid, Paige invites us to think more deeply about our impact on communities around the world, many of which are more vulnerable coming out of the pandemic. Through conversations with Harold Goodwin of the UK-based Responsible Tourism Partnership and Judy Kepher-Gona, of Kenya's Sustainable Travel & Tourism Agenda, Paige offers tips on how to be kinder, more aware travelers—and how to have a little fun along the way.

    This episode is sponsored by Explore Asheville, who shares our belief in the power of ethical travel. https://www.exploreasheville.com/

    Resources:

    Paige McClanahan: https://www.paigemcclanahan.com/

    Harold Goodwin: https://responsibletourismpartnership.org/who-we-are/

    Judy Kepher-Gona: https://sttakenya.org/

    Have a travel conundrum you want us to unpack? Tweet us, DM us on Instagram, or post on our Facebook page.


    Twitter: https://twitter.com/AFARmedia

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afarmedia/?hl=en

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfarMedia/


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     1640 no     Introducing: Unpacked by AFAR https://afar.com/ Have you ever been traveling and encountered a situation where you felt a little . . . uncomfortable? Yeah, us too. Each week on Unpacked by AFAR, we'll unpack a single, ethically complex question. Say, “How can I travel with a lighter footprint?” or “How can I engage with animals in an ethical way while on the road?” Through a mix of first-person stories and interviews with experts in the field, Unpacked will explore not just answers to those questions, but new ways to engage with the places we visit and the people we meet. Because the world is complicated. Being an ethical traveler doesn't have to be. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 19 May 2022 17:14:00 -0000 Introducing: Unpacked by AFAR trailer 1 Afar Have you ever been traveling and encountered a situation where you felt a little . . . uncomfortable? Yeah, us too. Each week on Unpacked by AFAR, we'll unpack a single, ethically complex question. Say, “How can I travel with a lighter footprint?” or “How can I engage with animals in an ethical way while on the road?” Through a mix of first-person stories and interviews with experts in the field, Unpacked will explore not just answers to those questions, but new ways to engage with the places we visit and the people we meet. Because the world is complicated. Being an ethical traveler doesn't have to be. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Have you ever been traveling and encountered a situation where you felt a little . . . uncomfortable? Yeah, us too. Each week on Unpacked by AFAR, we'll unpack a single, ethically complex question. Say, “How can I travel with a lighter footprint?” or “How can I engage with animals in an ethical way while on the road?” Through a mix of first-person stories and interviews with experts in the field, Unpacked will explore not just answers to those questions, but new ways to engage with the places we visit and the people we meet. Because the world is complicated. Being an ethical traveler doesn't have to be.


    Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    ]]>     61 no