The Frommer's Travel Show

Jamaica's Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett was today's guest, discussing the good news that 80% of Jamaica's tourism infrastructure is back in place, after the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. He also discussed why Jamaica's coffee is world class (and coffee plantation tours on island), the nation's cuisine and music traditions, some of the island's top attractions, and more. Places, people, and companies mentioned in this episode Jamaica Negril Ocho Rios Treasure Island Golden Eye Firefly Ian Fleming Noel Coward Bob Marley Kingston Montego Bay Rocky Point (Today's episode was a sponsored podcast.) Mentioned in this episode: Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet.

Jen Ruiz, author of the book "12 Trips in 12 Months: Make Your Own Solo Travel Magic" discusses how she footed the bill for her landmark year on the road, and some of the exciting adventures she had. Places discussed in this episode: Meteora, Greece Aruba Antelope Canyon, Arizona Zion National Park, Utah Toronto, Canada Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.

If you saw the documentary "Free Solo," about Alex Honnold's awe-inspiring, rope-free ascent of the face of El Capitan in Yosemite, you know what brave, driven athlete he is. He shows another side of both himself, and his home state of Nevada, in his new T.V. series " Get A Little Out There with Alex Honnold " (on Outside TV). Today's episode covers both the adventures you can have in the state, and the oddball attractions you'll find there. Companies, destinations, and documentaries mentioned in this episode: Free Solo Taipei 101 Outside TV Get a Little Out There With Alex Honnold Yosemite National Park Las Vegas Fort Lauderdale JetBlue United Airlines Goldfield The Car Forest The Clown Motel The Extraterrestrial Museum The Mob Museum Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.

Peter Barron, one of the authors of the just published guidebook " Frommer's Spain ", discussed ways to enjoy the uncrowded side to Spain, by going to less popular (but still tremendously appealing) regions and cities, and visiting the country when others don't. Takeaways: The just published Frommer's Spain guidebook is a substantial resource for travelers, meticulously written and edited to ensure accuracy and depth. This podcast emphasizes the importance of responsible tourism, particularly in over-touristed areas like Barcelona and Mallorca. Listeners are encouraged to explore lesser-known regions of Spain, such as Extremadura, which offers rich history and beautiful sights without the crowds. The discussion highlights unique cultural experiences, including a visit to Barcelona's Hospital de Sant Pau, showcasing architectural beauty and historical significance. Companies, places and people mentioned in this episode: Frommers Prado Museum Barcelona Hospital de Saint Pau Celler de Can Roca Esperit do Roca Vii Casa Bigote La Gitana Jerez San Lucar Costa Brava Girona Ronda Cuenca Philippe Stark Jesus Segura Mentioned in this episode: Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet.

Jane Wooldridge, author of "Frommer's Comfort in the Wild: 1000+ Idyllic Nature Destinations—No Roughing It Required", continued her discussion of different types of travel that allow vacationers to get deep into the wild. She talked about African safaris, as well as safaris on the tundra to see polar bears; a lodge in Belize owned by one of the most famous film directors on earth; and places where you can have unique nature experiences in Armenia, Mongolia, and Bhutan. Takeaways: What you see on safari will vary depending on the time of year you go. Knowledgeable travel agents should be used when booking a complex trip like a safari. Unique accommodations, such as bird's nest lodges, tundra buggies, and yurts are a wonderful way to get deeply into nature. The episode encourages listeners to explore outdoor experiences without the necessity of roughing it, promoting comfort in nature. Companies mentioned in this episode: Frommer's Miami Herald Society of American Travel Writers Green Safari's Chisa Busanga Camp Tundra Buggy Lodge Blancaneaux Lodge Shinta Mani Wild Lodge Fogo Island Inn Three Camel Lodge Gangtey Lodge Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.

Jane Wooldridge, author of the recently released coffee table book "Frommer's Comfort in the Wild: 100+ Idyllic Nature Destinations—No Roughing It Required" is our guest today. She delves into how to pick the right expedition cruise, where the most beautiful treehouse hotels are, what it's like to stay in a geodesic dome, and how ranch vacations can put you in touch with American history. (This is part 1 of a 2 part interview about the book.) Takeaways: The podcast introduces a new coffee table book titled 'Frommer's Comfort in the Wild', which features over one hundred idyllic nature destinations. Jane Wooldridge, the book's author, emphasizes the importance of experiencing nature for health and well being The podcast discusses the evolution of expedition cruises, highlighting their increased comfort and accessibility over recent years. Listeners are encouraged to explore different types of travel experiences, such as treehouse hotels, geodesic dome stays, winery stays, and ranch vacations. The episode concludes with a promise of a part two, as there are many more intriguing travel destinations to explore. Companies mentioned in this episode: Frommer's Miami Herald Society of American Travel Writers National Geographic Explorer Lindblad Expeditions Clear Sky Bryce Canyon Seabourn Cruises Lone Mountain Ranch Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.

Pauline Frommer discussed her newly released guidebook "Frommer's New York City 2026" and what the top culinary trends in the city are right now. She also talked about what it's like to visit NYC's newest observation deck, and how The Studio Museum, Sotheby's and The Jewish Museum have reinvented themselves. Then Kevin Long, CEO of TheDyrt.com, talked about how many new campers there were in 2025, what people can do when there's no room at the campsite, and how this form of vacation is evolving. Takeaways: The latest edition of Frommer's New York City guidebook was released this fall, highlighting recent changes and attractions in the city. New York City has exciting new attractions and revamped iconic sites. The introduction of a new observation deck in Times Square offers unique nighttime views. A number of new high-end Caribbean restaurants and innovative wine bars are reshaping the city's culinary scene..Over half of campers had difficulty finding room at their first choice campgrounds in 2025 Companies, products and websites mentioned in this episode: Frommer's New York City 2026 Frommers.com Swarovski Crystal One Times Square The Jewish Museum The Studio Museum of Harlem Sotheby's The Dyrt Toyota Trucks Ha's Snack Bar Sunn's Wine Bar Kabawa Lei Wine Bar (this is the name of the restaurant Pauline couldn't remember) Mentioned in this episode: Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet.

Patrick Doyle, from Visit Montana, discussed the ghost towns, badlands, and Native American sights found in Big Sky Country's state parks. He also discussed why rodeos are such a fun lens into the state's culture and traditions, and when is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park. Takeaways: Montana is characterized by vast landscapes and a relatively low population density, which affects visitor experiences. The state has numerous historical sites, including Fort Owen and St. Mary's Mission, which tell of the state's early days. Bannock State Park, a well-preserved ghost town, offers a unique glimpse into Montana's past as the first territorial capital. The Bitterroot Valley is rich in history and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking adventure. Companies and destinations mentioned in this episode: Yellowstone National Park Montana Billings Bozeman Missoula Darby Fort Owen St. Mary's Mission Makoshakea State Park Medicine Rock State Park Carter County Museum Bannock State Park Montana State University Western Montana College North American Indian Days Crow Fair Wild Horse Stampede Mentioned in this episode: Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet.

Zach Helfand, author of "Airport-Lounge Wars: When you’re waiting for a flight, what’s the difference between out there and in here?" in the New Yorker Magazine discussed his quirky quest to visit every lounge in the New York area. Takeaways: Zach Helfand's article discusses the evolution of airport lounges from exclusive clubs to more accessible spaces, and the impact of credit card partnerships. Lounges have transformed the airport experience by providing amenities such as truly gourmet food, showers, sleep pods, private security screening and more. During the COVID-19 pandemic, airlines relied heavily on their credit card partnerships, which have proven to be more valuable than traditional ticket sales in sustaining their businesses. The luxurious offerings of international lounges often greatly surpass those found in the United States. Companies mentioned in this episode: American Airlines Admirals Club Delta Airlines United Airlines American Express Chase Chase Explorer United Explorer Delta One Priority Pass Air France Danny Meyer Shake Shack Gramercy Tavern Alaine Ducasse Mentioned in this episode: Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet.

Pauline Frommer and Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran discussed Pauline's second trip to Vietnam, which was just completed. Takeaways: The host emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation, particularly regarding visa applications, as a critical aspect of international travel. The episode highlights the cultural richness of Vietnam, including indigenous tribes and their fascinating customs, which the host explored during the trip. The discussion includes reflections on the modern tourism industry in Vietnam, noting both advancements and the potential for inauthentic tourist experiences. The host's experience at a dark restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City serves as a metaphor for broader themes of accessibility and culinary expectations in travel. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.

Jesse Neugarten, founder of Dollar Flight Club, discussed strategies for getting the best airfares, at a time when travelers are facing a lot of headwinds. Takeaways: In 2026, the impact of artificial intelligence on airfare pricing has significantly reduced the window of opportunity for booking low-cost flights. Travelers should embrace 'gateway flexibility' by considering multiple departure airports, and itineraries that include domestic hops before international ones, to access better fares for international destinations. The traditional concept of an 'off season' for travel has become obsolete, necessitating a shift in strategy for cost-effective travel planning. Companies mentioned in this episode: Dollar Flight Club Norse Airways French Bee Delta Airlines United Airways American Airlines Ryanair Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.

Avery Singer and Jolie Golub, founders of BachBoss an agency that creates customs tailored travel experiences for Hen and Stag parties, were our guests today. They discussed the most popular destinations for bachelor and bachelorette parties, over-the-top celebrity celebrations, and the biggest problems groups encounter when planning these sorts of roaming fests. Takeaways: The Travel and Adventure Show is set to take place in Seattle on January 10th and 11th, marking a significant event for travel enthusiasts. Attendees of the Travel and Adventure Show can get free tickets by using the code "FROMMERSVIP" when purchasing tickets online. The trend of destination bachelor and bachelorette parties has surged, with approximately 80% of couples opting for weekend getaways to celebrate before their weddings. BachBoss, a company specializing in planning bachelor and bachelorette parties, was founded by friends who discovered a market need through their own experiences. Popular destinations for bachelor and bachelorette parties include Miami, Las Vegas, Cabo, and Tulum, combining luxury experiences with celebratory activities. The importance of early planning for destination events cannot be overstated, as venues and accommodations fill up quickly during peak travel seasons. Companies mentioned in this episode: Bach Boss Frommer's Guides The Seattle Travel and Adventure Show Mentioned in this episode: Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet.

Reid Bramblett, author of our recent studies on how to find the best booking engines for airfares, and the best ones for lodgings, unpacked his research. He discussed which sites find the lowest rates most consistently, how to filter results smartly, VPN uses for travel bookings, and when doing multiple searches will be the only way to find the lowest prices. Takeaways: The travel industry presents complex pricing structures that require careful examination to avoid overpaying. Reid Bramlett conducted an extensive study to identify the best booking engines for airfares and hotels. AI chatbots currently perform poorly in providing accurate travel pricing information. Momondo emerged as the top airfare search engine due to its superior price-finding capabilities and filters. Google Hotels consistently finds the lowest hotel prices, with Trivago coming in a very close second. Some engines surface the fees and taxes that can drastically increase the overall costs but others do not so engaging a VPN can help you more easily see what the end cost will be (and might find you lower prices overall). Mentioned in this episode: Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet.

Pauline Frommer discusses her recent trip to Spain with Jason Cochran, Editor in Chief of Frommers.com Takeaways: In this episode, we discuss the cosmopolitan nature of Madrid, highlighting its expansive avenues, walkability, top restaurants and extraordinary museums. The culinary experiences in Madrid are diverse, ranging from molecular gastronomy to traditional tapas, showcasing the city's rich gastronomic culture. Our exploration of Madrid includes visits to renowned museums, where masterpieces from artists like Bosch and Goya captivate the imagination. The flamenco show at Corral de la Moreria stands out as a cultural highlight, demonstrating the city's historical significance in the flamenco tradition and its artistic vibrancy. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet.

From her hotel room in Utrecht, Pauline Frommer talked with Frommers.com's Editor In Chief Jason Cochran about her adventures in that Dutch hotspot, and her just concluded visit to Germany's capital. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.

New York Times writer Jonathan Zwickel discussed his recent article about tours that uncover the political and economic forces that are shaping life in Athens, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro, and other important cities. Then Hiroko Yoda discussed her illuminating book about Japanese traditions, religious practices and life "Eight Million Ways to Happiness: Wisdom for Inspiration and Healing from the Heart of Japan. Takeaways: Zwickel recounts his experience of wandering through an Athens neighborhood, revealing the urban decay and struggles faced by locals. We discuss the importance of ethical tourism, emphasizing the need for respectful engagement with local communities and their histories. The podcast highlights the emergence of social and political walking tours as a means to provide deeper insights into the realities of city life and its challenges. Additionally, we examine how these tours can serve as an antidote to overtourism by redistributing visitor traffic to underappreciated areas. In the second half Yoda discusses the interplay between different religious traditions in the temples of Japan; how she came to find Shinto teachings helpful while grieving the loss of her parents; and a the story behind a famous mound in Tokyo, that has a surprising history. Links referenced in this episode: newyorktimes.com airbnb.com planetwonk.com Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.

Laurie Gwen Shapiro, author of the new book "The Aviator and the Showman: Amelia Earhart, George Putnam and the Marriage That Made an American Icon" was today's guest. She discussed how Earhart shaped how we travel today, why she is still such a potent role model, and what happened to her on her final flight. Takeaways: The contemporary travel industry owes much of its development to the pioneering efforts of early aviators, particularly Amelia Earhart, who significantly influenced public perception of air travel. Laurie Gwen Shapiro's book, 'The Aviator and the Amelia Earhart,' delves into the intricate relationship between Amelia Earhart and her husband, George Putnam, showcasing their collaborative efforts. Amelia Earhart's role as an ambassador for aviation was crucial in promoting air travel to women, thereby helping to establish the industry as a viable mode of transportation. The podcast highlights the complexities surrounding Amelia Earhart's legacy, suggesting that her ambitious nature and calculated risks played a significant role in her untimely demise. Listeners are encouraged to explore the nuances of Amelia Earhart's final flight by listening to tapes of those who know her, available on the Smithsonian website. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.

In our final installment of our series on the best destinations for 2026, Pauline Frommer, Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson discussed Palawan in the Philippines, Portugal's Algarve region, Chicago, Adelaide in Australia and Vienna, Austria. To see our Best Places to Go in 2026 photo-rich article, go to Frommers.com/BestPlaces2026. Takeaways: In 2026, Chicago will be a prominent travel destination due to the opening of the Obama Presidential Center, which is expected to significantly reshape the community. Vienna is poised to attract visitors with a plethora of cultural events, including the 250th anniversary of the Burgtheater and the reopening of the Museum of Folk Life and Folk Art. Palawan in the Philippines is becoming increasingly popular, particularly due to its stunning natural beauty and the upcoming film set to draw attention to the region. The Algarve region of Portugal will feature direct transatlantic flights in 2026, making its beautiful beaches and rich history more accessible to American tourists. Adelaide, Australia, is experiencing a renaissance with new direct flights, making it easier for travelers to explore its vibrant arts scene and natural beauty. The year 2026 promises to be exceptional for travel as various destinations celebrate significant anniversaries and cultural events that will enhance the visitor experience. Mentioned in this episode: Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet.

Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson, joined Pauline Frommer to discuss the destinations that will be particularly vacation-worthy in 2026. Today's show covered Peru, Jasper (Alberta, Canada), Hot Springs (Arkansas), Viti Levu (Fiji), Costa Navarino (Greece), and the United States' 250th birthday celebration venues. To see the complete list go to Frommers.com/bestplaces2026. Takeaways: In our discussion, we emphasized that Peru offers far more than just Machu Picchu, highlighting its diverse attractions. The recent political unrest in Peru has affected tourism, necessitating a focus on alternative destinations within the country. We introduced Costa Navarino in Greece as an emerging travel destination, providing a unique cultural experience without the usual tourist crowds. The Rocky Mountaineer Train's new Jasper to Banff route presents an opportunity to explore the stunning Canadian Rockies conveniently and luxuriously. Viti Levu in Fiji is becoming more accessible to North American travelers, enriching its cultural landscape with a mix of influences. The United States will celebrate its 250th anniversary with nationwide events that promote historical education and civic engagement. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.

It's that time of year again! Frommer's writers from across the globe have nominated the places that they think will be especially appealing to visit in the coming year, for very specific reasons—important anniversaries, new features, affordability, you name it. From the dozens of suggestions, we narrowed the field down to 16. You can see the complete list at Frommers.com/bestplaces2026. In this episode Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson, joined Pauline Frommer to discuss Asheville (North Carolina), Patagonia Azul (Argentina), Kruger National Park (South Africa), Albuquerque, and Oulu (Finland). Mentioned in this episode: Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below. Voyascape Podcast Network Check out the Smart Travel Podcast This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet.