Traveling with AAA

Auto Club Enterprises
  • 4.9 (156)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

To help you get the most of your travel experiences, Traveling with AAA takes you around the country and the world through conversations with industry pros. You’ll hear tips and tricks, travelers’ tales, and hard-won wisdom that will inspire you to plan your next adventure. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of Auto Club Enterprises/The Automobile Club of Southern California, AAA and/or its affiliates.

  1. 6D AGO

    Top 5 Music Venues Worth Building a Trip Around with Edmund Vallance

    Just as music brings us together and teaches us about the world, so too do music venues—many of which are spectacular destinations in their own right. These venues transcend the performance, shaping our understandings of music, history, and place. In this episode, host Angie Orth is back with travel writer and musician Edmund Vallance to share five music venues worth building an entire trip around. From historically significant spaces to acoustic marvels and intimate clubs where legends are born, Edmund reveals the venues that have moved him most and why they're worth traveling across continents to experience. You'll discover why a gospel service in Harlem belongs on every traveler's bucket list, learn about an ancient Greek theatre in Sicily where world-class artists still perform under the stars, and hear about Berlin's surprisingly affordable classical music scene. Edmund also shares his favorite outdoor venue in Austin and reveals the unpretentious London basement club where music history continues to unfold every night. What You’ll Learn: 0:32 Why the Gospel Harlem Tour is an unforgettable emotional experience  1:18 The ancient Greek theatre where Bob Dylan, Diana Ross, and Ray Charles performed  1:58 Berlin Philharmonic's incredible acoustics and surprisingly affordable ticket prices  2:52 Austin's Stubbs barbecue joint and outdoor venue  3:45 London's Notting Hill Arts Club, where future legends are found Connect with Edmund Vallance: Journalism: http://www.edmundvallance.com/ Music:  http://www.edvallance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edmundvallance/ Listen to his music on Spotify  Have you traveled for music? Tell us where you’ve been in the comments!  Connect with AAA: Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

    5 min

  2. FEB 6

    Traveling for Music with Edmund Vallance

    The lights dim, the crowd stirs, and the show you traveled for kicks into gear. In that moment, your vacation becomes something more: you're feeling the heartbeat of the city. Live music can transform a destination into an unforgettable experience, taking you on a deeper journey through its history and culture. In this episode, host Angie Orth welcomes travel writer and musician Edmund Vallance to explore how music shapes the way we experience the world. Edmund shares stories from his adventures chasing live performances across continents, from seeing Lou Reed in a tiny Porto venue to watching the Sex Pistols in Las Vegas. As both a performer and a passionate fan, he reveals how music can unlock a destination's true character. You'll discover why Gen Z is leading the charge in concert travel and hear about iconic venues from Red Rocks in Colorado to Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club in London. You’ll learn how music museums can turn you into a fan—even if you've never heard the artist before. Edmund also shares practical tips for finding serendipitous musical moments that can change how you see a place, plus his bucket list of must-visit music destinations—from Santiago de Cuba to Vienna's Mozart houses. What You’ll Learn: 3:36 How music festivals like South by Southwest can become the cornerstone of an unforgettable trip  9:25 Why having one central concert can reshape an entire destination  14:38 Seattle's essential music sites for Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana fans  20:48 New York's historic jazz venues to celebrate Miles Davis' centennial year  25:00 How to find life-changing musical moments through randomness and saying yes Connect with Edmund Vallance: Journalism: http://www.edmundvallance.com/ Music:  http://www.edvallance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edmundvallance/ Listen to his music on Spotify What musical experience would you travel anywhere for? Tell us in the comments!  Connect with AAA: Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

    31 min

  3. JAN 29

    Top 5 Events to Celebrate America 250 with Erin Gifford and Barbara Noe Kennedy

    Imagine fireworks lighting up colonial cobblestones, tall ships gliding past centuries-old shores, and neon signs illuminating the American story in unexpected places. The United States is turning 250, and with celebrations unfolding coast to coast, the hardest part isn't finding a party—it's choosing which one to attend. In this episode, host Angie Orth reconnects with travel experts Barbara Noe Kennedy and Erin Gifford to break down the best America 250 destinations for every type of traveler. You'll discover where history buffs can experience multiple eras of American heritage in one trip, and which destinations balance education and entertainment for families. You’ll also learn about places where foodies can taste their way through America's culinary traditions. Along the way, you'll encounter visually stunning celebrations and hidden stories that deserve a spotlight during this historic anniversary year. What You’ll Learn: 1:19 The ultimate destinations for history buffs 2:32 Family-friendly celebrations that keep kids engaged and entertained 3:24 The most visually spectacular places to experience America's birthday 4:21 Where to uncover untold Revolutionary stories and lesser-known historical narratives 5:56 The best foodie experiences to celebrate American culinary heritage Connect with: Erin Gifford https://www.eringifford.com/ https://www.instagram.com/byeringifford Barbara Noe Kennedy https://www.barbaranoekennedy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/barbaranoekennedy/?hl=en What are YOUR plans for America 250? Tell us in the comments!  Connect with AAA: Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

    9 min

  4. JAN 22

    The Best Places to Celebrate America 250 with Erin Gifford and Barbara Noe Kennedy

    America is turning 250 years old, and the nation is marking the milestone by revisiting overlooked stories, opening archives, and gearing up for a year packed full of celebrations. Washington's personal copy of the U.S. Constitution will emerge from the vaults, while in Boston Harbor, an international fleet of tall ships will arrive with billowing sails—just as they did when a revolution was born. In this episode, host Angie Orth welcomes travel experts Erin Gifford and Barbara Noe Kennedy to break down the biggest milestone celebration of our lifetime. Erin has written the guide "Explore America: 250 Places to Go in 2026," while Barbara has covered the most compelling events and untold stories emerging across the country. Together, they reveal where to find the best celebrations nationwide. You'll discover the National Archives' new exhibits, explore the untold history of Williamsburg's First Baptist Church, and find out how to avoid crowds during America's year-long birthday festivities. This episode is your complete guide to celebrating a quarter-millennium of American history. What You’ll Learn: 2:17 Why this milestone matters in America's story  9:31 Philadelphia's two-week festival, featuringfree concerts and unique events  15:50 Unexpected stops beyond the usual suspects 20:03 The international armada of tall ships touring the Atlantic coast  26:26 What you’ll take away from this once-in-a-lifetime celebration Connect with: Erin Gifford https://www.eringifford.com/ https://www.instagram.com/byeringifford Barbara Noe Kennedy https://www.barbaranoekennedy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/barbaranoekennedy/?hl=en What are YOUR plans for America 250? Tell us in the comments!  Connect with AAA: Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

    30 min

  5. JAN 15

    Must-See Stops in Every State on Route 66 with Karuna Eberl

    Every mile marker tells a different story, and each state along Route 66 offers its own slice of Americana. From restored gas stations frozen in time to desert craters that challenge your sense of scale, knowing where to stop can transform a long drive into an unforgettable adventure. In this episode, host Angie Orth is back with travel journalist and filmmaker Karuna Eberl to break down Route 66 state by state. Fresh from her 2,448-mile journey across eight states, Karuna shares her top picks for the most unmissable attractions from Illinois to California, helping you prioritize where to spend your time along America's Mother Road. You'll discover hidden gems in small towns and learn why one Kansas stop is a must for Pixar fans. You’ll also hear about the automobile-themed Texas landmark that may be the most iconic stop along the whole route. Karuna explains why supporting these roadside stops is so important for the future of Route 66, making it a pilgrimage for centuries to come. What You’ll Learn: 1:23 Illinois's best historical architecture  2:16 Why Kansas's 13-mile stretch is a must for Cars movie fans  3:26 A defining Route 66 landmark in Texas 5:25 Arizona's only national park along the Mother Road  6:05 California's desert oasis and spectacular Mojave views Connect with Karuna Eberl: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quixotictravelers What’s your favorite stop on Route 66? Tell us in the comments!  Connect with AAA: Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

    9 min

  6. JAN 8

    A Journey through 100 Years of Route 66 with Karuna Eberl

    Picture yourself cruising past vintage motels with glowing vacancy signs, stopping for pie at a chrome-trimmed diner, and discovering roadside museums that tell stories most travelers speed right past. Today’s Route 66 isn’t about getting from point A to point B. It's about embracing the journey as America's most iconic highway turns 100. In this episode, host Angie Orth welcomes Karuna Eberl, a travel journalist and filmmaker who just completed the entire 2,448-mile journey from Illinois to California. Karuna wrote the latest cover stories for AAA Explorer and Westways, documenting her three-week adventure through eight states, visiting local eateries, historic motor courts, and small-town museums that preserve a century of American history. You'll learn how long you need to enjoy Route 66 and why slowing down transforms the experience. She also shares the cultural landmarks that make this highway a living time capsule and practical tips on where to stay and how to navigate the route. What You’ll Learn: 3:35 Why slowing down transforms the Route 66 experience  8:13 Mid-century Americana's roadside diners and motor lodges  13:41 Must-see roadside attractions  19:12 The historic motor courts that connect travelers 24:30 Essential lessons from 2,500 miles on the Mother Road Connect with Karuna Eberl: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quixotictravelers Have you driven Route 66? Tell us about your experience in the comments!  Connect with AAA: Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

    27 min

  7. JAN 1

    Perks of Winter Travel with Chandler Navarro

    The words “summer” and “vacation” have always gone together. Summer travel is certainly wonderful, but it’s not the only time to vacation.  If you’re looking for great deals, fewer crowds, and more travel flexibility, then taking a trip during the winter might be right up your alley.  Today, Angie Orth welcomes Chadner Navarro, a seasoned travel writer who has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, The Wall Street Journal, Food & Wine, and Vogue.com. As an off-peak traveler and ski enthusiast, he’s got some great advice to share about the best travel destinations for winter.  You’ll hear what makes the winter months a great time to travel, and where you can expect to find the best deals. You’ll hear about unique destinations where you can enjoy warmer temperatures and the coolest spots for snow sports to satisfy your adventurous spirit.  What You’ll Learn: (01:28) Why winter is a great time to travel(05:50) Fresh winter destination ideas(06:51) Where to find deals for winter travel(13:55) Less crowded ski destinations to explore(16:20) How climate change is affecting off-season travel Connect with Chadner Navarro: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chadner/ X: https://twitter.com/chadner Connect with AAA: Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

    19 min

  8. 12/25/2025

    Top New Year’s Eve Getaways

    Where are you celebrating New Year’s Eve this year? It’s a question that feels exciting and a bit nerve-racking at the same time.  New Year’s Eve is both a beginning and an end. It’s bidding farewell to the year that’s passed, and welcoming the new one in the best way possible. Naturally, we want to celebrate in a place that feels special. Today, Angie Orth welcomes a pair of trusted travel experts to help you answer the big NYE questions. Lee Abbamonte has celebrated in some of the biggest and brightest cities in the U.S. and abroad, and Alexandra Baackes loves to explore how different cultures around the world ring in the new year.  You’ll hear about unique celebrations in global destinations. You’ll get an honest rundown of what it’s like to party in some of the most famous and iconic New Year’s Eve events in the U.S. and abroad. And most importantly, you’ll discover the type of celebration that inspires you to solidify your New Year’s plans, whether you’re traveling to an exotic locale or keeping it local.  What You’ll Learn: (02:22) How Australia makes New Year's Eve celebrations accessible for all bedtimes(03:54) Thoughts on those big-city celebration destinations(06:07) New Year's Eve advice for anyone trying to decide how to celebrate(08:16) Why you should leave room for the unexpected(11:48) A fun U.S. New Year's destination that feels off the big-party radar Connect with Lee Abbamonte: Website: https://www.leeabbamonte.com/ Connect with Alexandra Baackes: Website: https://www.alexinwanderland.com/ Connect with AAA: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

    14 min
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4.9
out of 5
156 Ratings

About

To help you get the most of your travel experiences, Traveling with AAA takes you around the country and the world through conversations with industry pros. You’ll hear tips and tricks, travelers’ tales, and hard-won wisdom that will inspire you to plan your next adventure. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of Auto Club Enterprises/The Automobile Club of Southern California, AAA and/or its affiliates.

Information

  • Creator
    Auto Club Enterprises
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    161
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    Copyright © 2022-2023 Automobile Club of Southern California and its licensors. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Traveling with AAA

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