Traveling with AAA

Last week, you heard why cemeteries around the world should be making it onto your travel itinerary. This week, we’re pointing the compass toward 5 must-see cemeteries to help you kick start what’s sure to be your new favorite travel curiosity. Today, Angie Orth shares more of her interview with Loren Rhoads, author of 199 Cemeteries to See Before You Die and Wish You Were Here: Adventures in Cemetery Travel. She’s a cemetery travel expert here to share her love for final resting places and help you decide which ones should be added to your list. You’ll hear her top recommendations based on the kind of cemetery that best sparks your interest. Whether you want to do something a little extra spooky this Halloween, check out some unique architecture, be enveloped in greenery, or see where the King of Rock ’n’ Roll had his last dance, you’ll be sure to find some inspiration in today’s episode. What You’ll Learn: ● The best cemetery to visit for a spooky Halloween (1:10)● A stunning cemetery for nature lovers (1:38)● Where to find the best architectural marvels (1:59)● A truly unusual bone collection (2:25)● The cemetery to visit if you’re a U.S. history buff (3:41)Connect with Loren Rhoads:Website: https://lorenrhoads.com/Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/LorenRhoadsAuthor/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/morbidloren.bsky.socialTwitter: https://twitter.com/morbidlorenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morbidloren/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvTI4Zh74nsCLGmOBqulRRQConnect with Angie Orth:Website +Blog: https://angieaway.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angieaway/?hl=en Connect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesTraveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcastPlan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

If you haven’t already been adding cemeteries to your travel itineraries, then you’ve been missing out. These quiet, contemplative places might be filled with the bones and ashes of the deceased, but they hold a lot more than meets the eye. Cemeteries are full of history, both in terms of what (or, rather, who) lies beneath, and in the stories of their construction. Some were built by famous architects, others dreamt up by creative horticulturalists, and some were designed to invite people in as places of recreation. These are not just places to remember loved ones. They are also places full of stories and teeming with life. Today, Angie Orth welcomes Loren Rhoads, author of 199 Cemeteries to See Before You Die and Wish You Were Here: Adventures in Cemetery Travel. In the early ’90s, a travel hiccup forced her to alter her original itinerary, eventually landing her in a London bookshop, piquing her interest in cemeteries as travel destinations. You’ll hear about what keeps drawing her to these sacred spaces, and how attitudes about enjoying cemetery grounds have changed throughout history. You’ll hear a few historical tidbits about some of the world’s most famous cemeteries, and why they’re encouraging people to visit. Loren also shares some of her favorite cemeteries in the US and abroad, and what made those visits so impactful. What You’ll Learn: ● Why cemeteries should be added to your travel plans (2:49)● The real reason Père Lachaise is the most-visited cemetery in the world (4:38)● How a historic L.A. cemetery became a popular tourist destination (10:33)● The many ways to experience a cemetery (13:06)● Her top 3 unmissable cemeteries (15:51)Connect with Loren Rhoads:Website: https://lorenrhoads.com/Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/LorenRhoadsAuthor/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/morbidloren.bsky.socialTwitter: https://twitter.com/morbidlorenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morbidloren/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvTI4Zh74nsCLGmOBqulRRQConnect with Angie Orth:Website + Blog: https://angieaway.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angieaway/?hl=enConnect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesTraveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcastPlan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

Do you often wonder how much social media is in the driver's seat of your travel experience? In the era of influencers and our ever-greater accessibility to travel, it’s essential to ask ourselves about the role of social media. It affects everything, from our choices about where to go, what to see, where to stay, to perhaps most importantly, how we document our experiences for others to see. As the creators of these stories, we bear a certain amount of responsibility to those we inspire and to the communities we visit and promote. So, how do we travel responsibly and respectfully in the social media age? Today, Angie Orth welcomes two industry experts to answer some important questions about social media and travel. JoAnna Haugen is a writer, speaker, and passionate advocate for sustainable and responsible travel. B.A. Van Sise is an author and photographer who focuses on the relationship between language and imagery. You’ll hear thoughtful perspectives about how travel has changed (or not?) since the arrival of social media. You’ll hear stories about communities and “Instagram hotspots” that have been affected, and even how lives have been lost. You’ll also hear thoughts on what this technology adds to our travels. For better or for worse, social media seems to be perpetually along for the ride. If you feel like it might be time to reclaim your experiences from the grips of this social behemoth, but you don’t necessarily want to go off-grid, then this episode will provide some thought-provoking answers. What You’ll Learn: ● An example of how social media has changed our travel experiences (2:57)● How social media contributes to over-tourism (7:39)● Reclaiming your travel experiences from the grasp of technology (13:20)● The pros of cons of social media from an artist's perspective (19:55)● What we miss out on when technology and travel collide (27:45) Connect with JoAnna Haugen:Website: https://www.joannahaugen.com/Connect with B.A. Van Sise:Website: https://bavansise.format.com/Connect with Angie Orth:Website + Blog: https://angieaway.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angieaway/?hl=enConnect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesTraveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcastPlan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

Bordeaux, Barolo, and Prosecco…oh my! Wine is one of the simple pleasures in life and one of the most enjoyable. Whether you’re sipping a glass on the hilltop of an ancient European castle or sharing a bottle with a friend on a Friday night, you’re holding history in the palm of your hand. And, let’s face it, there’s no better travel combination than wine, travel, and history. Today, Angie Orth welcomes Jennifer Dombrowski. She’s a wine lover based in Bordeaux, France. The Pennsylvania native has traveled the world as a writer and photographer covering luxury adventure travel and food and wine experiences. You’ll learn about the history of wine and understand why France has played such a pivotal and historical role in its production. You’ll hear about unique wine-tasting experiences you can enjoy in Europe and throughout the US. You’ll also learn a simple way to pair wine with your meals, boosting your confidence and wine knowledge along the way! What You’ll Learn:● A few fun and historical facts about wine (3:22)● What makes France such a powerhouse in the wine world (8:43)● Unique wine-tasting experiences (10:25), (19:05)● Wine-producing areas in the US (16:51)● The newest trend in winemaking and why it’s important (24:30) Connect with Jennifer Dombrowski:Website + Blog: https://luxeadventuretraveler.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luxeadventuretrvlr/ Connect with Angie Orth:Website +Blog: https://angieaway.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angieaway/?hl=en Connect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesTraveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcastPlan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

Seeing bears and caribou while floating past gem-like glaciers isn’t a normal, everyday experience for most people. But for Alaskans, it’s just another day in the wild paradise of America’s 49th state. If you’ve been dreaming about seeing Alaska’s incredible range of wildlife and exploring the state’s crystal-clear waters, then you’re in luck. Today’s guest is here to help you get closer to ticking this wild mountain paradise off your bucket list. Well, for the first time, anyway. Today, Angie Orth welcomes Valerie Stimac to the show. She’s an award-winning travel writer and the author of Dark Skies, A Practical Guide to Astro Tourism. A native Alaskan, she’s here to share her love for the breathtaking, bountiful, and beautiful 49th state. You’ll discover the best ways to navigate Alaska, whether by plane, boat, or RV (and you’ll get a few road tips for getting around a land without interstate highways). You’ll learn where to see the most abundant wildlife and the best way to get there. You’ll also hear a few tips if you want to visit Alaska on a budget, and the best way to see the magical lights of the Aurora Borealis. What You’ll Learn:Where to see the “Big 5” in Alaska (4:58)How to see Alaska from the water (11:26)Visiting Alaska on a budget (13:12)Experiencing Alaska’s Native culture (16:11)How the culinary scene is evolving (18:10)Planning to see the Aurora Borealis (20:42)Connect with Valerie Stimac:Website: https://valeriestimac.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vstimac/Book: https://valeriestimac.com/shop/Connect with Angie Orth:Website +Blog: https://angieaway.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angieaway/?hl=enConnect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Traveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcastPlan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

When you think of going somewhere that’s a true departure from the familiar, a place with both stunning natural beauty and impressive modern flair, then it won’t take long before visions of Japan begin to fill your mind. The cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are natural starting points for the first-time visitor. If you’re ready to discover the rich cultural traditions of Japan and witness the country’s distinctive blend of ancient and modern architecture, then we’ve got an experienced guide to help point you in the right direction.Today, Angie Orth welcomes Don George, a lifelong “Japanophile” who has spent decades exploring this incredible island nation. He’s a celebrated travel writer who now leads Geographic Expeditions tours through Japan. You’ll learn about the geography of Japan and how the major islands and biggest destinations differ from one another. We’ll talk about navigating the language barrier, and who to seek out if you need help. Don shares his experiences of generosity and kindness from locals on his travels, and he’ll provide a few tips for taking your first warm dip in a Japanese onsen. What You’ll Learn:Where to start if you’re a first-time visitor to Japan (3:03)Tips for navigating the language barrier (7:31)Exploring the Geisha tradition (14:41)What to expect when you visit an onsen (17:13)What’s possible when you venture off of the beaten path (23:57)Connect with Don George:Blog: http://www.don-george.com/blogConnect with Angie Orth:Website +Blog: https://angieaway.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angieaway/?hl=enConnect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Traveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcastPlan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

Is there anything more quintessentially Parisian than biting into a warm croissant, sipping a strong cup of coffee, and people watching from the table of a quaint cafe? Well, if you haven’t experienced the many pleasures of Paris yet, then today’s guest will have you dreaming of the River Seine by the time you finish this episode. Today, Angie Orth welcomes Lee Abbamonte, a busy blogger and world traveler who has been back to Paris over 60 times! For the seasoned Francophile or the first-time visitor, he’s here to provide insider tips for anyone planning a visit to Paris in the next year. You’ll hear his expert tips on where to eat, where to stay, and how to avoid the crowds in the most visited city in the world. He shares what he loves about the Paris experience, the best spots to snap that iconic Eiffel Tower photo, what to consider when visiting the Louvre, Paris’ historic importance, and some excellent alternatives for stunning city views that don’t require waiting in line. You’ll also hear what Paris is doing to prepare for the 2024 Summer Olympics and what makes this years opening ceremony different than any other. What You’ll Learn:● Lee’s favorite neighborhood to stay in when visiting Paris (2:17)● Where to get an authentic Parisian meal (3:42)● What makes the the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris unique (8:29)● An alternative to going up the Eiffel Tower (12:07)● Lesser-known spots to avoid the crowds in Paris (15:39) Connect with Lee Abbomonte:Website and blog: https://www.leeabbamonte.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leeabbamonte/ Connect with Angie Orth:Website +Blog: https://angieaway.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angieaway/?hl=enConnect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Traveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcastPlan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

Mexico has long been drawing American travelers. From bustling Mexico City to charming Puerto Vallarta and down to the inviting beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula, we’re bringing you the best of Mexico. The country has stunning seaside resorts, delicious street food, and friendly family distilleries, making it a great destination for all kinds of travelers. Today, your new Traveling with AAA host, Angie Orth, welcomes two Mexico travel experts to the show. Tim Leffel lives in Guanajuato and is the editor of the website Perceptive Travel. Lydia Carey is a freelance writer based in Mexico City. You’ll hear about the pace of life that makes Mexico feel so special, even in big cities. You’ll learn what makes destinations like Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and the Yucatan Peninsula different, and which location might be best for the kind of vacation you’re planning. You’ll also hear where to find delicious street food and the best way to sample traditional Mexican spirits. What You’ll Learn: ● Where to go and what to eat on your first visit to Mexico City (4:05)● Finding local, traditional spirits like mezcal and pulque (6:49)● Enjoying tunique cenote pool experiences (10:35)● Journeying to remote islands from Puerto Vallarta (14:08)● Festivals to plan your trip around (17:04)● Advice for visiting Mexico from local perspectives (20:53) Connect with:Tim Leffel: https://timleffel.com/Lydia Carey: https://mexicocitystreets.com/author/alphabetiegmail-com/ Connect with Angie Orth:Website +Blog: https://angieaway.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angieaway/?hl=enConnect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesTraveling with AAA Podcast:https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcastPlan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

Fresh air, wildlife sightings, and wide-open vistas are the hallmarks of our US National Parks. There’s something so special about visiting these places, but that untamed beauty also comes with a downside. At our most popular parks, especially in summer, crowds are inevitable. So, what’s the best way to navigate the parks, and is it possible to avoid the crowds altogether? Today’s guest, Gary Arndt, has some expert tips that will help you do just that. Since 2007, Gary has practically made world exploration his full-time job. Through his travels, he has seen more of the US National Park system than just about anyone. His deep curiosity about the world comes through on his podcast, Everything, Everywhere, where he takes deep dives into cultural and historic topics inspired by his travels.During his conversation with Mary Harendeen, you’ll learn why the US National Park system has a lot more to offer than just parks, and how you can take advantage of off-the-beaten-path locales. He discusses the impact of over-tourism and offers useful tips on avoiding crowds, helping you venture outside of the most crowded parks to discover lesser-known options.What You’ll Learn:How to discover more within the US National Park System [2:17)Lesser-known destinations where you can avoid the crowds (5:31) (16:53)Exploring outside of the most popular parks in Utah (11:20)The best parks for families and solo travelers (15:49)Getting the most out of your National Park visits with a park pass (19:37)Connect with Gary Arndt:Podcast: https://everything-everywhere.com/Connect with Mary Herendeen:Mary Herendeen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-herendeen-626984174/Connect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesTraveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcastPlan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

There’s something magical about packing your bags, planning out your meals, and loading your friends and family into a van or RV for a road trip. You park and plant yourself in the midst of nature. One day, your front porch is a fiery red sunset overlooking the red rocks of Sedona. Another, it’s a misty seaside morning on the Santa Barbara coast. Road trips have long been an American pastime. It’s only the form they’ve taken that has changed. These days, more Americans are venturing out in fully outfitted vans, living their own variations on #VanLife. Today, Mary Herendeen welcomes Kristen Bor, an outdoor enthusiast who has spent nearly a decade balancing life at home and serious adventures on the open road. In 2014, she left her job and loaded up a van to spend more time outdoors. This eventually led her to #VanLife. Her website, Bearfoot Theory helps road-trippers and #VanLifers equip themselves with the right gear and discover the best van and RV-friendly destinations. Her blog offers helpful advice for anyone planning a road trip or thinking about long-term travel on the road. You’ll hear about her introduction to van life and what she learned about van design as her needs changed with a partner and a growing family. She shares how summers on the road keep her close to nature, and she reveals her favorite U.S. destinations for road trips. What You’ll Learn: ● Why van life has become so popular in recent years (2:31)● Advice for long-term road trippers and prospective van lifers (6:09)● How to shower on the road (9:20)● Connecting with nature in our National Parks (14:11)● Her favorite road trip destination (16:54) Connect with Kristen Bor:Bearfoot Theory Connect with Mary Herendeen:Mary Herendeen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-herendeen-626984174/Connect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesTraveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcastPlan your next vacation with AAA: https://aaa.com/travel

The world has opened up again, and we’re packing our bags and taking flight to faraway places. As the summer months approach, popular destinations prepare for the busy upcoming tourist season. It should come as no surprise that Europe tops many travelers’ lists. With so many people planning European summer vacations this year, we thought it would be a good idea to call in an expert. Today, Mary Herendeen welcomes Alyson Long, a full-time world traveler and CEO of World Travel Family. She travels full-time with her husband, Chef, and their 2 sons. Alyson has spent more than 20 years exploring the world, sharing her stories and the adventures of her traveling family on her blog. World Travel Family has become one of the planet’s biggest travel blogs with immense influence and invaluable insight. You’ll hear about Alyson’s life on the road, what it’s like being a full-time traveler, and how she manages her adventures with a family in tow. She shares tips on successfully navigating non-English–speaking destinations, choosing the right accommodation for your needs, and the best way to experience busy places while maximizing your time. You’ll also hear about a few off-the beaten-track places in the UK if you’re looking for a quieter vacation experience. What You’ll Learn: ● The biggest challenges when traveling off the beaten path (4:19)● Deciding on the right kind of accommodation for your trip (15:20)● What details to plan in advance and how to leave room for spontaneity (19:06)● Tips for buying tickets for museums and big attractions (20:49)● What to see if you’re traveling to or through the UK (24:06) Connect with Alyson Long:Website: https://worldtravelfamily.com/Blog: https://worldtravelfamily.com/travel-blog/ Connect with Mary Herendeen:Mary Herendeen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-herendeen-626984174/Connect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesTraveling with AAA Podcast: https://www.ace.aaa.com/travel/information/traveling-with-aaa-podcastPlan your next vacation with AAA: https://www.aaa.com/travel

Writer Jessica Fender talks about Iceland’s easily accessible natural wonders, from glaciers and hot springs to the country’s gorgeous waterfalls. She also offers tips on what to see and do in Reykjavik.Connect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Susan Van Allen, author of 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go, offers tips on planning the perfect tour of Italy’s food, architecture, and history.Connect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Kevin Allen of Hawai‘i Magazine discusses new hotels and attractions and offers tips on visiting responsibly.Connect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

A rare total solar eclipse is coming our way in 2024. Self-confessed eclipse-chaser David Swanson offers tips for travelers making plans to see the unusual solar event.Connect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Travel enthusiasts Tonya and Ian Fitzpatrick discuss the importance of vacationing with your significant other. Romantic getaways, they say, can help couples reconnect through shared experiences and new perspectives.Connect with AAA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

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

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

If you’ve resolved to travel more in 2023, you’re in luck. Emily Kaufman, better known as “The Travel Mom” for her website of the same name, gives tips on reaching that goal. She has great advice, not just for families, but for all travelers.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel writers Jim Benning and Elizabeth Harryman discuss Colombia’s emergence as a tourist destination. The South American country is known today more for its hospitality and scenic beauty than drug wars and gangsters, they say. Among the attractions discussed are world-class coffee, a gold museum, and a major bicycle event.

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

The crisp air and bright colors of fall inspire travelers to embrace the outdoors. Chez Chesak, executive director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, is an avid skier, biker, and backpacker. He offers tips on making the most of autumn’s cooler days and shares his favorite fall hiking and biking spots.

The Land Down Under offers just about every outdoor adventure venue imaginable, from sandy beaches to bustling cities to the harsh beauty of the outback. Pulitzer Prize–winning writer Jessica Fender tells about her experiences on a Contiki escorted tour aimed at travelers age 18 to 35. Jessica cuddled a koala at an animal sanctuary, took a surfing lesson, and climbed to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Travelers fall for Italy for many reasons, not least the delicious food and wine, the amazing art, and the country’s fascinating history. Author and Italy expert Susan Van Allen shares insights on making the most of any visit. She’s the author of 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go. Not only that, she appeared in her own one-woman show, portraying 5 characters in an Italian-American family, and she was a staff writer for the Emmy Award–winning TV show, Everybody Loves Raymond.

What’s it like to stay in the new Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel in Disney World? What’s new at Disneyland? Jordan Poblete, creator of the blog DisneyExaminer.com, offers tips on visiting the parks and shares his recent live-action role-playing experience as an overnight guest on Galactic Starcruiser.

River cruising in the U.S. is gaining in popularity for good reason. Riverboats are smaller than most ocean-going cruise ships and offer a more intimate experience. Riverboats also put you right into the rich culture of America’s heartland. Is a river cruise right for you? Guests Nick Chabarria and Elizabeth Harryman Lasley share their own experiences cruising U.S. rivers and offer insights for those considering riverboating on the Mississippi or other U.S. waterways. Nick Chabarria is a public affairs specialist for the Automobile Club of Missouri. Travel journalist Elizabeth Harryman Lasley is a former travel editor of Westways magazine and a former cohost of OnTravel, a radio show that aired to a million listeners in 167 countries on the American Forces Network and at OnTravel.com.

RVs offer a comfortable way to see the country and camp in the great outdoors, but they may not be for everyone. Brad Wright, a copy editor at Westways and AAA Explorer, recently rented an RV and explored the Oregon Coast with his wife, Daysi. He shares his experience as an RV newcomer and offers tips to others considering RV travel and exploring Oregon.

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