From power outages in Puerto Rico to private guides in Mexico City, a three-week camper road trip across Canada and New England, and rediscovering the joy of close-to-home travel — this episode is our full 2025 travel year in review. We reflect on what worked, what surprised us, and how our travel style continues to evolve toward fewer crowds, better food, deeper local connections, and more intentional pacing. Along the way, we share lessons from private tours, long weekends, destination Thanksgivings, and why some places keep pulling us back at moments of transition. If you’re thinking about how to travel better — not just more — this episode is for you.

Christopher and Ashleigh guide you through December’s most practical travel updates, from shifting airline routes to festive European destinations, with their trademark blend of honest insight and flexible planning tips. Starting with major airline and airport changes, the episode covers significant news for 2026 travelers. The FAA is embarking on a $32.5 billion modernization of US air traffic control systems, promising a future of smoother flights. Ryanair, meanwhile, will be cutting 20 routes and slashing a million seats at Brussels’ two main airports. On the flip side, Air Lingus is adding new transatlantic options, including a Dublin-to-Pittsburgh flight using its Airbus A321 XLR, which features both lie-flat business seats and a US pre-clearance facility in Dublin for easier arrivals. If you’re flying in the US, be aware: the TSA is increasing the Real ID fee to $45 starting in 2026.

Christopher and Ashleigh are your guides this episode as they dig into Skyscanner’s forward-looking report on how—and where—we’ll be traveling in 2026. They break down emerging trends, highlight offbeat and best-value destinations, and share honest perspectives on what might actually shape your future trips.

Christopher and Ashleigh share their favorite strategies for turning the airport from a dreaded obstacle into a surprisingly enjoyable part of your travels. Drawing on their own experiences and a mindset shift, they offer concrete ways to minimize stress, stay flexible, and even discover small pleasures along the way. From booking smarter to making the most of your time before takeoff, the episode covers practical steps that help you avoid common headaches and find value—no matter where you’re flying. Christopher and Ashleigh emphasize treating the airport as part of the journey, not just a hurdle, and share tips for navigating both the expected and the unexpected.

Christopher and Ashleigh share honest stories about their own travel missteps—so you don’t have to learn the hard way. This episode is packed with practical lessons, from booking blunders to overambitious itineraries, all with the goal of helping you plan smarter and travel happier. From wrong hotels in Manhattan to misaligned flights and rental cars in Puerto Rico, the hosts open up about mistakes that even seasoned travelers make—plus the simple systems and mindset shifts that help them recover (and sometimes even laugh about it later).

Christopher and Ashleigh share their favorite ways to make the most of Michigan during the Christmas season, curating a list that blends festive classics with offbeat finds for a memorable holiday adventure. From winter sports and historic celebrations to dazzling lights and cozy markets, the episode covers a wide spectrum of experiences. They kick things off by highlighting Michigan’s winter sports opportunities—think skiing, sledding, and ice skating in both big cities like Detroit (with its Campus Martius rink) and smaller towns. Ashleigh brings her love of tradition with “Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village,” a historic holiday celebration where buildings are decorated true to their era, carolers roam, and the night ends with fireworks.

Christopher and Ashleigh are back with a fresh roundup of the month’s most relevant travel news—curated to help you navigate shifting airline policies, cruise expansions, and what’s actually changing for travelers right now. Whether you’re planning a trip or just want to make sense of the headlines, this episode is packed with candid perspective and practical takeaways.

Christopher and Ashleigh guide you through all that makes Frankenmuth, Michigan, a memorable destination—whether you’re passing through on a road trip or planning a special getaway. With its Bavarian roots, festive energy, and a blend of quirky and classic attractions, “Michigan’s little Bavaria” offers more than meets the eye. Start with Frankenmuth’s unique history, founded by German missionaries in 1845 and now famous for its immersive Bavarian flair. The town’s centerpiece, Bronner’s—the world’s largest Christmas store—draws visitors year-round, but especially shines (and gets crowded) between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Don’t miss the charming replica of the Silent Night Chapel on the grounds, and if you’re shopping for personalized ornaments, it’s the go-to spot.

Christopher and Ashleigh guide you through a packed September news roundup, blending the latest airline updates, travel tech, and U.S. destination highlights—plus a hands-on homemade limoncello break inspired by Italian adventures. They kick things off in Detroit Tigers spirit, then dive into major airline shakeups. Spirit Airlines has filed for bankruptcy again, planning to focus operations on Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and Detroit while furloughing a third of its flight attendants. Southwest is set to launch its first-ever flights to Alaska, and Iceland’s Play Airlines abruptly shut down, stranding over 1,700 passengers (a sober reminder to always get third-party travel insurance, not from your operator).

Christopher and Ashleigh share their favorite ways to experience Michigan in the fall, guiding you through vibrant destinations, honest tips, and a few under-the-radar gems for the season. Whether you have a weekend or a week, you’ll get practical ideas that balance structure with plenty of room for discovery. The episode opens with Mackinac Island, recently voted the number one fall destination in the US by USA Today readers. Christopher and Ashleigh recall their own late-October trip, noting that even past peak color, the island was stunning—proving flexibility in timing can still yield a beautiful escape. If you’re looking for detailed Mackinac tips, they’ve covered it extensively in previous episodes.

Christopher and Ashleigh guide you through two distinct city adventures: a whirlwind day in Scranton, Pennsylvania, with an eye for “The Office” TV show sites, followed by their latest discoveries in Detroit’s ever-evolving food and culture scene. Whether you’re a TV superfan or a traveler seeking authentic eats, this episode is packed with practical tips and honest reflections for your next urban getaway.

Headed to Acadia National Park and don’t want to waste a day figuring it out on the fly? This episode distills our third trip to Mount Desert Island into a practical Top 10—exactly what’s worth doing, when to go, and how to avoid the classic pain points (parking at Sand Beach/Jordan Pond, Cadillac Mountain reservations, crowded Bar Harbor afternoons). We cover: the best first-timer flow for the Park Loop Road (and the audio guide trick that makes it way better), when to switch to the free Island Explorer buses, boat tour options from chill sunset sails to choppy puffin runs, how to experience the Carriage Roads (bike vs. carriage tour), the Jordan Pond House popover ritual (with a real-talk bee warning), choosing a ladder trail that matches your comfort with heights, easy hikes that punch above their weight, where we loved lobster (and blueberry pie), quieter alternatives like the Schoodic Peninsula, and the timing you actually need for Cadillac sunrise/sunset. Plus: quick notes on paddling Echo Lake vs. Jordan Pond, camping options (NPS vs. private), and a bite-size “Wine Break” on Tuscan IGT reds. Listen in, copy the plan, and spend your trip soaking up ocean views instead of circling for a parking spot.

A week in Montreal brought us food discoveries, unforgettable views, and a few surprises (like how easy it is to drive in the city!). Join us as we recap our Canada–New England road trip stop in Montreal — from camping just outside the city to tackling Mount Royal, eating our way through Mile End, and being wowed by Notre Dame Cathedral. If you love food, history, and practical travel tips with a dose of thoughtful storytelling, this episode is for you.

Join Ashleigh and Christopher as they kick off the first part of their Canada & New England camping adventure. From hiking to Bruce Peninsula’s famous grotto and paddling through Algonquin’s waterways to stumbling onto Ontario fry stands and unexpected wineries, this episode is packed with stories and insights for travelers who want more than the typical tourist trail. Perfect for anyone curious about road-tripping across borders, finding beauty in both rustic and refined stops, and making the most of limited time while still traveling deeply.

From TSA policy shifts to cruise line expansions, this episode is packed with the travel updates that actually matter. Ashleigh and Christopher cover airline changes, cruise news, new train rollouts, and even a surprising rental car perk. Perfect for anyone who wants to stay informed and inspired while planning their next adventure.

Hit the road without the headaches. We break down how to plan a road trip that’s flexible, fun, and full of memorable stops — without wasting time, money, or energy. From mapping your route and booking the right lodging to finding the best along-the-way experiences, you’ll learn how to turn miles into memories.

New Orleans isn’t just a food city — it’s a cultural feast. In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher dive into the soulful flavors and stories behind iconic dishes like gumbo, muffulettas, and beignets. From classic institutions like Commander’s Palace and Dooky Chase to off-the-beaten-path gems and quick local bites, you’ll get real-world tips on how to eat well and travel deeper in the Big Easy. Whether you’re planning your first trip or want to experience New Orleans with fresh eyes, this episode serves up the flavor — no fluff, just thoughtful guidance.

Ashleigh and Christopher explore New Orleans’ vibrant blend of cultures and discuss its rich history, architecture, cuisine, and of course - jazz music. They recommend top sights like the French Quarter, swamp tours, WWII Museum, and more. The hosts also taste a light, fruity red wine, perfect for warm weather.

This month’s travel news covers airline rankings, with Qatar Airways topping the list, cruise line updates like Carnival revamping its loyalty program, hurricane season in the US, Disney cracking down on timeshare rentals, and global tidbits. The wine break suggests crisp, acidic whites and light reds perfect for summer sipping.

Ashleigh and Christopher share about their recent trip to New York’s scenic Finger Lakes region. They discuss hiking the waterfall-filled Gorge Trail, visiting the innovative Corning Museum of Glass, wine tasting, and dining at local spots like Holy Cow Deli. The Finger Lakes offer natural beauty, outdoor adventures, small towns, and great wine and food.