Frommers

Episode Notes Pauline and Frommers.com Editor In Chief Jason Cochran discussed her recent trip to Naples, Matera, and the Amalfi Coast

Episode Notes Dan Saltzstein, editor for the New York Times, and author of the new book “That’s So New York: Short (and Very Short) Stories about the Greatest City on Earth” was our first guest. Then Frommers.com columnist William McGee broke down the best ways to effectively complain when things go wrong on flights, cruises,…

Episode Notes How to make the most of your time in port when you’re on a cruise, with ace Washington Post reporter Andrea Sachs. Plus Pamela Holt talks about her TV show "Me, Myself and the World: The Art of Solo Travel"

Episode Notes Amy Tara Koch was our first guest, and she discussed her recent article in the Telegraph on how travelers can distinguish between true luxury offerings, and standard travel products. Then Roger Marolt, Outside Magazine author, talked about the shockingly high fees now being attached to early morning skiing, and why that’s destroying ski…

Episode Notes Jon Douglas, author of "500 Ways to Eat Like a Local: A Traveler’s Guide to the Regional Foods of the U.S." was our first guest, followed by Gwen Pratesi, a cruise expert who covered the tricks for eating well on cruise ships for us at Frommers.com.

Episode Notes Elaine Glusac, the New York Times’ Frugal Traveler Columnist, came on to share the places that can sub in for more pricey destinations. Then Craig Stoltz discussed his new Frommers.com article on E-Bikes and Travel.

Episode Notes Jason Cochran, Editor in Chief of Frommers.com, came on to discuss his recent experience on Florida’s new Brightline Train (as well as developments in Orlando, and problems with Lyft). Then author Catherine Bennett discussed new European capsule train bunks, and the best train itineraries on that continent.

Episode Notes Peter Barron, one of the authors of Frommer’s Spain, discussed a splendid part of that country where sherry tours, low-key Flamenco shows, and royal equestrian displays are on tap. Then Julie Frieder, one of the authors of "Wonder Year: A Guide to Long-Term Family Travel & Worldschooling" came on to chat about her…

Episode Notes Our first guest is Bill McGee, Frommer’s columnist and fellow at the American Economic Liberties Project, talking about why we’re seeing more disturbing flight incidents recently, and what you can do to emerge unscathed should the plane you’re on have issues. Then Alan Feldstein, owner of Infinite Safari Adventures, talked about new types…

Episode Notes Seth Kugel, author of the Tripped Up column for the New York Times was our first guest, followed by travel journalist Veronica Stoddart discussing the new facilities and attractions for single cruisers.

Episode Notes Reid Bramblett, author of the just-published Frommers.com article on the 10 Best (and Worst) Flight Search Engines gave advice on how to save on different types of bookings. Then Thomas Swick, author of "Falling Into Place: A Story of Love, Poland, and the Making of a Travel Writer", discussed his new memoir

Episode Notes Heidi Sarna, long-time Frommer’s cruise expert and founder of the website QuirkyCruise.com, came on to discuss what small ships offer that big ones don’t. Then the Washington Post’s Andrea Sachs came on to discuss an airplane issue that’s come to the fore in just the last six months.

Episode Notes Frommer’s columnist, and consumer expert, Bill McGee discussed the history-making battle against the JetBlue/Spirit Airlines merger. Then author Nikki Vargas talked about her new travel memoir "Call You When I Land"

Episode Notes Jennifer Ceaser, one of the authors of the just-released Frommer’s Spain was our first guest, followed by Alexis Lipsitz Flippin, author of Frommer’s Virgin Islands.

Two of the authors of the just-released Frommer’s Spain joined us to talk tapas vs. pintxos, top flamenco shows in Andalucia, how best to museum-hop in Madrid, Pamplona’s Running of the Bulls, Rioja winery visits and more

Episode Notes Simon Willmore, Deborah Collcutt and Samantha Priestly, three of the authors of our just-release "Frommer’s England and Scotland" guidebook, came on to discuss travel to Oxford, Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath, the Lake District, Yorkshire and more.

Our first guest discussed her upcoming TV episodes on American Revoluton sites, South Korea, and more. Then, Andrea Sachs of the Washington Post talked about etiquette on overnight flights, and what you need to know about ski passes.

Episode Notes Pauline welcomed fellow Frommers.com editors Jason Cochran and Zac Thompson on to dish about our brand new "Best Places to Go in 2024" article. Then Alyson Johnson of National Geographic discussed their new book "Best of the World: 1000 Destinations of a Lifetime" based on a decade’s worth of best places articles

Episode Notes Jeanne Cooper, author of the just released "Frommer’s Hawaii 2024" was our first guest, followed by Alexandra Hudson, author of "The Soul of Civility: Timeless Principles to Heal Society and Ourselves".

Episode Notes Paul Ames, author of the just-released "Frommer’s Portugal" took us through the ideal itinerary for Portugal, weaving in history, culinary info, and more. Then Lisa Niver discussed her tale of a using travel to repair a life upended by divorce.

Episode Notes Kim Knox Beckius of Yankee Magazine gave her predictions and tips for autumn road trips. Then Frommers.com‘s Jason Cochran came on to discuss the gotchas of electric vehicle rentals, which airlines have the worst fees, and how to get the lowest airfares.

Episode Notes Today’s guests were Lori Erickson, author of "Every Step Is Home: A Spiritual Geography from Appalachia to Alaska; and Alyson Johnson, senior editor of National Geographic’s brand new book "Great Outdoor USA: The Best Adventures for You Across 50 States"

Episode Notes Pauline spoke about her recent travels to those splendid European cities. Then she interviewed Jane Lopes and Jonathan Ross, authors of "How to Drink Australian: An Essential Modern Wine Book"

Episode Notes Pauline discussed her recent adventures on the historic Canal du Midi. Then Frommers.com‘s Editor in Chief Jason Cochran talked about his recent Transatlantic voyage aboard the Queen Mary II.

Episode Notes Paulette Perhach discussed her recent New York Times piece on how to travel with folks who may have bigger travel budgets than you do. Then, Los Angeles Times’ Travel Reporter Christopher Reynolds talked about secret areas of Yosemite National Park, the blossoming Downtown LA arts and culinary scene, and more.

Episode Notes It’s almost, but not quite too late to plan an Olympic vacation for next summer in France. Will Whiston, of On Location (the official tourism partner of the Olympics), gives advice. Then Monica Mohindra of the LOC’s Veterans Project discussed new exhibitions there in honor of the 70th anniversary of the Korean War….

Episode Notes Frommers.com‘s Editor in Chief joined Pauline to discuss the legality of weed on the high seas, plus he gave a preview of his upcoming Queen Mary cruise. Then Carolyn Spencer Brown of Cruise Media, discussed strategies for avoiding crowds in port towns, how river cruises are handling low water situations today, and more.

Episode Notes Carolyn Campbell, author of “City of Immortals: Père-Lachaise Cemetery in Paris” was our first guest (learn more, or download her app at http://cityofimmortals.com), followed by Nicole Smith, the CEO and Founder of Flytographer

Episode Notes Jordi Lippe-McGraw joined Pauline to talk about where, and how, to travel to get inked. Then the New York Times’ Elaine Glusac discussed new tours that allow travelers to swim, safely, for several kilometers in the ocean. Nick Cavanaugh, the CEO of Sensible Weather, was our last guest, discussing how the weather is…

Episode Notes Amy Tara Koch discussed her recent New York Times piece about when "smart tech" in hotels is downright stupid. Then Kevin Long, CEO of the app The Dyrt, discussed how to get spots at sold out campgrounds, and the best places in America to park an RV or pitch a tent.

Episode Notes Author Carla Sosenko discussed her recent New York Times article on the issues confronting larger travelers, and the new companies that are catering to this clientele. Next we spoke with Kay Dean, founder of Fake Review Watch. Our final guest was Washington Post reporter Andrea Sachs, talking about some of the reasons behind…

Episode Notes Meleana Estes, author of the new book “Lei Aloha: Celebrating the Vibrant Flowers and Lei of Hawai’i”, was our first guest. Then, Tara Eaton of Not Just Tourists discussed her non-profit’s work delivering medical supplies around the globe. Finally, writer Joni Sweet talked about “Sober Curious” vacations, and the many companies that are…

Episode Notes Samantha Brown shared her top tips for traveling with kids. Then the New York Times’ Seth Kugel discussed his latest Tripped Up column, and Tonje Sund, of Norway and SAS, made an important green travel announcement.

Episode Notes Anya Von Bremzen, author of “National Dish: Around the World in Search of Food, History, and the Meaning of Home”, was our first guest. Then Melanie Fish, spokesperson for Hotels.com, came on to discuss the findings in their new room service study.

Episode Notes Frommers.com‘s Editor In Chief Jason Cochran talked about his recent research trips aboard an iconic train and to Florida’s theme park mecca. Then Days Inn’s Anthony Pizzuto discussed the brand’s recent partnership with celebrity sidekick Ross Matthews

Episode Notes Stephanie Rosenbloom discussed her recent New York Times article on the over-the-top amenities hotels are rolling out for dogs. Next, Sonia Weiser talked about her WaPo piece on how going to estate sales can enhance your next vacation. Then Leanne Fitzpatrick of Air New Zealand discussed their upcoming SkyNest program. Finally, Pauline talked…

Episode Notes Actor/Author Andrew McCarthy (Pretty in Pink, Weekend at Bernie’s) discussed his new travel memoir “Walking with Sam: A Father, A Son, and 500 Miles Across Spain”. Then, Frommer’s writer Sean Cudahy talked about strategies for actually saving money when you fly Frontier, Spirit, EasyJet or one of the other budget airlines.

Episode Notes JD Shadel discussed their recent Washington Post piece on offsets. Then PBS star Christine van Blokland talked about historic small villages in Portugal, why she loves Wales, and the delights of Estonia.

Episode Notes Alexander Samuel discussed her recent Wall Street Journal article on “bleisure” travel. Then Susan Portnoy came on to talk about the Albergo Diffusi movement, which she wrote about for Smithsonian Magazine. Our last guest was Shannon Connolly of Roamstead.

Episode Notes Dawn Gilbertson of the Wall Street Journal discussed what it is like to fly French Bee, Norse Airways and Play, plus the Facebook groups that can help you find free items on the road. Then Dawn M. Barclay talked about her new book “Traveling Different: Vacation Strategies for Parents of the Anxious, the…

Episode Notes Eric Weiner, author of “The Geography of Bliss”, came on to discuss the new TV show (starring Rainn Wilson!) and tours that will be come out of that original book about a man trying to increase his own happiness by visiting the happiest places on earth. The Sebastian Modak came on to talk…

Episode Notes Andrea Sachs of the Washington Post discussed her recent articles on aviation and using pharmacies abroad. Then Mary Novakovish talked about her new book “My Family and Other Enemies: Life and Travel’s in Croatia’s Hinterland”.

Episode Notes Beth Harpaz discussed her recent NY Times article on attractions that will make kids of all ages happy in the Sunshine State. Then Frommers.com author Dan Renzi talked abouth the history of Kansas City’s famous barbecue scene and which restaurants are best to visit today.

Episode Notes Sean Cudahy discussed the science behind turbulence in flight, and recent changes to the DOT’s Dashboard regarding family travel. Then Stephanie Pearson talked about her recent New York Times piece about what travelers should do if they encounter a victim of human trafficking in a hotel

Episode Notes David Farley was my first guest, discussing his New York Times article which posited that Belgrade may be the new cocktail capital of Europe. Then Kay and David Scott talked about their new book “Exploring the Oregon Trail: America’s Historic Road Trip”

Episode Notes William McGee of the American Economic Liberties Forum came on to discuss recent DOJ and DOT announcements, and what they might mean for the JetBlue/Spirit merger plans. Then Stephanie Flor, founder of Around the World Beauty, talked about how pursuing beauty on the road could make your next trip a more meaningful one.

Episode Notes Jeff Lunden, a reporter for NPR, regaled us with tales of his trip to Morocco for the International Storytelling Festival, and his subsequent exploration of the country

Episode Notes Rina Nehdar discusses the fascinating life cycle of whale sharks, and how to get up-close-and-personal with these gentle giants. Then Don George discussed the star-author-studded travel writing anthology he just edited called “The Best of Wanderlust: Tales of Wonder and Connection”.

Episode Notes Juliana Shallcross discussed her recent Frommers.com article about how families of 5 and up can get appropriate lodgings for their groups. Then Neil Markey, Co-Founder of Beckley Retreats, a company that arranges holistic well-being retreats that involve the use of psilocybin, talked about the legalities of this type of trip, as well as…

Episode Notes Cruise expert Carolyn Spencer Brown discussed cruises to southern Africa, expedition cruising, current costs for this type of vacation and more. She was followed by Seth Kugel, Tripped Up columnist for the New York Times, giving advice on how to insure your rental car will actually be in the lot when you show…

Episode Notes The Washington Post’s Andrea Sachs discussed new developments at all-inclusive resorts that may make them less cheesy. Then, Paige McClanahan talked about her recent New York Times piece about how planes could be fueled by air (no joke!) in the near future.

Episode Notes Pauline spoke with Frommers.com Editor in Chief Jason Cochran about some of the biggest developments in travel this past week.

Episode Notes We chatted with Ernest White II about his wonderful PBS show “Fly Brother”, and what is the most underrated destination on earth. Then Washington Post writer Chris Dong discussed how to find the items you misplace either on planes, in the TSA line, or at the airport.

Episode Notes Bill McGee, of the American Economic Liberties Project, analyzed what went wrong with Southwest over the holidays, and what travelers need to know about booking air. Then Cahir ODoherty, of The Irish Voice, talked about the communal culture of the Emerald Isle.

A brief summary of this episode

Episode Notes Author and ski expert David Goodman discussed the changing price structures, demographics, and focus of the ski industry. Then Rebecca Deurlein talked about how decommissioned rail beds are becoming the center of a new and exciting vacation activity.

Episode Notes The Frommer’s core team—Jason Cochran, Zac Thompson and Pauline Frommer—discuss the picks that Frommer’s authors worldwide made for the most appealing destinations to visit in the coming year.

Episode Notes Brian Freedman, author of “Crushed: How A Changine Climate Is Altering The Way We Drink” was our first guest, followed by Tonya Fitzpatrick, co-founder of World Footprints.

Episode Notes Jean-Michel Petit, founder of the terrific website EatWith, was our first guest, discussing how his site vets experiences for travelers, and what dining with locals is like in different cities around the world. Then Maria Tuttocuore of Visit Estonia discussed the lures of that Baltic nation.

Episode Notes Frommers.com‘s Jason Cochran discussed road tripping to Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park, Pauline talked about her recent visit to HAL’s newest ship, and Andrew Fazekas, lead author of Nat Geo’s new “Stargazer’s Atlas”, revealed how to stargaze more effectively when on vacation.

Episode Notes Glen Mutel, editor of National Geographic’s “Food Journey’s of a Lifetime: 500 Extraordinary Places to Eat Around the Globe, talked turkey (and baguettes, and top food markets and more)

Episode Notes The celebrated author of the book “Vagabonding” joined us to discuss his new book “The Vagabonds Way” and such topics as why time elongates when you’re in a new place, the benefits of traveling with your parents, and much more.

Episode Notes The Emmy Award Winning Host of Check Please Philly!, Kae Lani Palmisano, discussed foodie travel and the dining opportunities of the City of Brotherly Love. Then the Washington Post’s Andrea Sachs joined us to discuss how to trade labor for room and board on vacation, and how tourists can help street dogs and…

Episode Notes The author of the best selling “1000 Things to See Before You Die” discusses her new book, which explores the 100 reasons to see the world.

Episode Notes Jason Cochran interviewed Pauline about her recent West Virginia trip. Then, consumer advocate Chris Elliott came on to talk about how travelers can, and can’t, get out of all the extra fees hotels and airlines are charging right now.

Episode Notes New York Times columnist Seth Kugel came on to discuss disturbing catfishing incidents on the lodgings giant’s platform. Then Nevin Martell, writer for the Washington Post, talked about how to make really long road trips rejuvenating for those driving alone.

Episode Notes Frommers.com‘s Editor in Chief Jason Cochran joined Pauline to discuss her recent trip along the northern coast of California, and his journey from Iceland to Amsterdam on the debut sailing of the Norwegian Prima.

Episode Notes Veronica Stewart-Frommer, lead singer of the band Melt (and Pauline’s daughter—you hear her song at the end of each podcast) came on to discuss New Nordic cuisine, the Grand Hammam of Paris, how to do Nice right, Amsterdam’s challenges, and why Copenhagen is the “world’s happiest city.”

Episode Notes Aimee Tucker of NewEngland.com joined us to discuss what areas of that region will be most vibrant in the coming season, and when. Then Sabine Bergmann, one of the founders of the online travel publication Hidden Compass, revealed what their most controversial stories have been, and what makes this exciting new project viable.

Episode Notes Jason Cochran started the show, talking about new developments in travel and some of the odder gadgets he like. Then the Wall Street Journal’s Jen Murphy discussed how people are helping their health in airport terminals. Finally wine expert Michael Green (http://MichaelGreen.com) discussed how to get the most out of winery visits

Episode Notes A.J. Jacobs, author of “The Puzzler: One Man’s Quest to Solve the Most Baffling Puzzles Ever from Crosswords to Jigsaws to the Meaning of Life”, discussed vacations with a puzzle element. Then the New York Times’ Elaine Glusac talked about how airport lounges are proliferating and changing

Episode Notes Greg McNamee and Amy Silverman, the authors of the just released guidebook Frommer’s Arizona, joined Pauline to discuss what’s new in the state, its hidden gems and the best ways to do the Grand Canyon.

Episode Notes Bill McGee of the American Economic Liberties Project discusses the roots of USA’s airline problems, and the fixes that could make things better. Then Kurt Repanshek of National Parks Traveler discusses his new guide to RVing in the Parks, and gives excellent advice on where to go now.

Episode Notes Erika Mailman discusses her recent Washington Post piece on the choices travelers need to make before they book an overnight journey on Amtrak (and why the experience has improved). Then Cruise Critic’s Managing Editor Chris Gray Faust discussed the pros (big discounts, new ships) and cons (understaffing) of high seas vacations in 2022

Episode Notes Jason Cochran, Editor in Chief of Frommers.com, was the guest today. He and Pauline discussed their recent travels on the high seas, to France, and to the Rolls Royce factory in the U.K.

Episode Notes Travel writer Beth Harpaz discussed why changing money is no longer necessary in many parts of Europe. Then John Lindley, of the Michigan RV & Campgroun Association, discussed solar powered RV’s, and innovations at campgrounds across the United States

Episode Notes Jessica Nabongo, the first black woman to visit every country on the planet, was our guest today.

Episode Notes Diana Schwam and Lavinia Spalding, the authors of our just released “Frommer’s EasyGuide to New York City” came on to talk food trends, how the history of the city is now being represented, and the particular ways nightlife is different in NOLA than anywhere else in the U.S.A.

Episode Notes Pauline discussed her visit to the brand new Viking Octantis expedition ship, and then welcomed Mel Allen, Editor of Yankee Magazine, to discuss travel in Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut in the coming season

Episode Notes Washington Post writer Kate Silver discussed the truly wonderful opportunities that are available with the National Park Service, the Army Corps of Engineers and other departments. Then Sarah O’Brien, of Ark Behavioral Health, talked about sober vacations. Finally, Pauline discussed why it’s going to be a surprisingly good summer for Americans to go…

Episode Notes The New York Times’ new “Tripped Up” columnist joined Pauline for a wide ranging discussion.

Episode Notes The author of the wonderful new travel memoir “A Hard Place to Leave” discussed how to visit difficult places, why destinations are like people, how to travel alone and more.

Episode Notes Colleen Kinder, editor of a wonderful new essay collection called “Letter to a Stranger” came on to talk about her rapturous new book—and the variety of human interactions when we travel

Episode Notes Jeanne Cooper, author of the newly released “Frommer’s Hawaii” guidebook, was this week’s guest, discussing what’s changed in the Aloha State in terms of pricing, lodging options, volunteer vacation opportunities, and more. Also discussed: the best island to pick for different types of vacationers.

Episode Notes Brian Kevin, Editor of “Down East” magazine, and author of the just-released “Frommer’s Maine Coast”, talked about how Maine weathered the pandemic, why the summer season will start earlier this year, the state’s newest parks, its flourishing food and beer scene, and more.

Episode Notes Authors Jess Moss and Kaeli Conforti of the just released “Frommer’s EasyGuide to Washington, DC” discussed the myriad of changes the capital has experienced over the last 2 years, and how those will shift the visitor experience.

Episode Notes Elizabeth Heath, one of the authors of “Frommer’s EasyGuide to Rome, Florence and Venice” gives advice on the new attractions opened during the pandemic, changes coming to “The Boot”, and the magic phrase that signals the start of a meal.

Episode Notes Frommers.com Managing Editor Zac Thompson came aboard first, to discuss the unusually large number of coasters and other rides debuting this year. Then Nate Ritter of Room Steals discussed his new website and Chrome Extension

Episode Notes Sharon Wheatley, of the musical “Come From Away”, joined us to discuss her new travel memoir “Drive: Stories from Somewhere in the Middle of Nowhere”. The book recounts a 3-month-long RV adventure at the height of the pandemic. Then the Washington Post’s Andrea Sachs talked about the moving sights to be experienced on…

Episode Notes Travel writer Reid Bramblett came on first to discuss his bi-annual study ranking the top (and bottom) hotel booking sites. Then Adam Levin, host of “What the Hack” and founder of CyberScout, discussed current vacation rental and hotel scams.

Episode Notes Joe Yogerst, author of National Geographic’s latest book “50 States, 500 Campgrounds” was our first guest today, followed by author/activist Cory Lee discussing his new travel foundation.

Episode Notes Jason Cochran joined Pauline to discuss some of the most recent travel developments, and one very sneaky travel hack. Then historian Sam Collins talked about one of the Galveston’s most important figures.

Episode Notes A look at the passionate, philosophical, rapturously beautiful controlled chaos that is modern day Italy. Plus a discussion of some of the latest findings by sleep scientists, on why it’s so difficult to snooze in new places—and their hacks for doing so.

Episode Notes Pauline was joined this week Nicole Barker, of the New Mexico Tourism Board, to discuss travel to that wondrous state. She also covers what’s new for travel to New Zealand, the cruise landscape and more

Episode Notes When will Notre Dame be reopened? What are the changes coming to Parisian hotels? What are the city’s new attractions? These questions, and more, are discussed in this City of Light episode.

Episode Notes The best selling novelist joined us to discuss her new non-fiction book, on the uniquely Irish phrases and words that make speaking with the Irish so delightful. Then Pauline took a deep dive into where airfares are going in the spring, and the worst U.S. airports.

Episode Notes The author of that classic travel book joined Pauline to discuss his recent wanderings in the U.S., and some of the travel myths that hold would-be journeyers back.

Episode Notes A round table with Frommer’s editors Jason Cochran, Pauline Frommer and Zac Thompson on how the major developments of 2021 will, and won’t, shape how we journey in 2022

Episode Notes Nick Hunt, author of “Outlandish: Walking Europe’s Unlikely Landscape” discussed his spellbinding new book. Then Pauline counted down the top American destinations for 2022 (see Frommers.com for more details on the list)

Episode Notes Blogger Angel Castellanos has been traveling outside the United States since June of 2020. What it’s been like, how he’s dealt with safety issues and more.