The Frommer's Travel Show

This week, Pauline Frommer interviewed her daughter Beatrix Stewart-Frommer about her 3 month sojourn in the city of Accra (while working on a masters degree in Global Health), and her journeys around the country.Mentioned in this episode:AccraThe Cape CoastElmina CastleKakum National ParkTsenku WaterfallBeach clubsMentioned in this episode:Check out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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

Elaine Glusac, the Frugal Travelers columnist for the New York Times, came on to discuss wellness vacations that won’t break the bank. These include robotic massages, public bathhouses, forest bathing, affordable spas and more.Places, treatments, and companies discussed in this episode included:The New York TimesJapanScandinaviaFinlandSweden IcelandSaunasForest bathingHot springsMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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 NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

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 episodeJamaicaNegrilOcho RiosTreasure IslandGolden EyeFireflyIan FlemingNoel CowardBob MarleyKingstonMontego BayRocky Point(Today's episode was a sponsored podcast.)Mentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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 NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

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, GreeceArubaAntelope Canyon, ArizonaZion National Park, UtahToronto, CanadaMentioned in this episode:Check out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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

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 SoloTaipei 101Outside TVGet a Little Out There With Alex HonnoldYosemite National ParkLas VegasFort LauderdaleJetBlueUnited AirlinesGoldfieldThe Car ForestThe Clown MotelThe Extraterrestrial MuseumThe Mob MuseumMentioned in this episode:Check out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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

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:FrommersPrado MuseumBarcelonaHospital de Saint PauCeller de Can RocaEsperit do RocaViiCasa BigoteLa GitanaJerezSan LucarCosta BravaGironaRondaCuencaPhilippe StarkJesus SeguraMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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 NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

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'sMiami HeraldSociety of American Travel WritersGreen Safari's Chisa Busanga CampTundra Buggy LodgeBlancaneaux Lodge Shinta Mani Wild LodgeFogo Island InnThree Camel LodgeGangtey LodgeMentioned in this episode:Check out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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

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 beingThe 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'sMiami HeraldSociety of American Travel WritersNational Geographic ExplorerLindblad ExpeditionsClear Sky Bryce CanyonSeabourn CruisesLone Mountain RanchMentioned in this episode:Check out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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

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 2025Companies, products and websites mentioned in this episode:Frommer's New York City 2026Frommers.comSwarovski CrystalOne Times SquareThe Jewish MuseumThe Studio Museum of HarlemSotheby'sThe DyrtToyota TrucksHa's Snack BarSunn's Wine BarKabawaLei 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 worldThis 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 NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

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 ParkMontanaBillingsBozemanMissoulaDarbyFort OwenSt. Mary's MissionMakoshakea State ParkMedicine Rock State ParkCarter County MuseumBannock State ParkMontana State UniversityWestern Montana CollegeNorth American Indian DaysCrow FairWild Horse StampedeMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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 NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

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 AirlinesAdmirals ClubDelta AirlinesUnited AirlinesAmerican ExpressChaseChase ExplorerUnited ExplorerDelta OnePriority PassAir FranceDanny MeyerShake ShackGramercy TavernAlaine DucasseMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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 NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

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 PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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

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 PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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

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 ShowMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis 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 NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast