EP 49: Sweet Endings

4 years of food and 4 years of flights!

As we prepare to wrap up this incredible journey with Food + Flights, we want to take a moment to express our appreciation to our listeners! Over the past 4 years, we’ve had the pleasure of sharing our adventures of travel, food, and friendship with you. From bustling street markets to quiet cafés tucked away in picturesque corners of the world, we've explored so many places. Although our adventures together will continue far beyond this podcast, it’s time to move onto the next chapters of our lives.

EP48: Mackinac Island

Spend the weekend exploring one of Michigan’s top destination, where cars are forbidden, and horse-drawn carriages transport you to a different time. Mackinac Island is home to around 500 people but host over a million tourists a year. Whether you are there for the charm and luxurious rooms of the Grand Hotel, scenic bike rides on the shoreline of the island, or need to stock up on your fudge supply, Michigan’s most famous island is a great destination for couples, friends, and families. Ally and Shelby share their experience exploring the enchanting island’s landscape, staying the weekend at the Grand Hotel, and tasting the culinary scene on Mackinac. Don’t think they forgot about Halloween this month! Listen to the haunted history of the island and the ghosts that still roam the grounds. Mackinac Island will be closing for the season shortly, tune in to this episode and take the next ferry out! 

EP 47: Fair Foods

When you think of the sweet smell of elephant ears or see the fluffy pink and blue clouds of cotton candy, you are sure to imagine a Ferris wheel and carnival games in the background. That’s right, this month we are talking about fairs!

Ally and Shelby dive deep into the heart of fun, fried culture by exploring one of its most beloved traditions in the United States—fair food! From the crispy, golden funnel cakes to the outrageous deep-fried Oreos, we’re taking you on a mouthwatering journey through the bustling fairgrounds.

Uncovering the fascinating history of fairs, tracing their roots back to the community gatherings in London. See how fairs evolved into the culinary extravaganzas we know and love today. Whether you’re a fan of classic corndogs or curious about the latest wild fair food trends, this episode will leave you craving a trip to the nearest fairground.

EP 46: Colorful Colorado

Imagine a place stained with bright red rocks, vibrant yellow leaves, clear blue skies, and snowcapped white mountains. The colors alone will have you mesmerized with the beautiful mountains, rivers, and plains of Colorado.

Ally & Shelby explore Colorado's stunning landscapes, from the towering peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park to the dramatic depths of Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Whether you’re looking for your next skiing destination, national parks, or quaint mountain towns, this episode is packed with breathtaking scenery, a variety of experiences and a taste of Colorado’s unique charm. Join us for a colorful exploration of one of the most captivating US states!

EP45: Ice Cream Alchemy

Summer is here! What better way to celebrate those hot summer nights than with the cold creamy dessert we all love. Ally and Shelby explore the origin stories of this beloved frozen treat, tracing back from ancient China, Europe, and Persia. Travel through time and discover the evolution and appeal of ice cream all around the world.

Whether it's a childhood treat, a celebratory indulgence, or a comforting remedy, ice cream has a unique ability to evoke the joy and nostalgia in all of us. Our former President of the United States loved this treat so much, that July is celebrated as National Ice Cream Month. Don’t let the holiday go to waste! Tune in and enjoy the scoops, sprinkles, and creamy delight of ice cream.

EP 44: Gambling Around The Globe

From the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas to European palaces, these destination have one expensive thing in common, gambling. This episode we are taking you on a thrilling journey through the world of casinos!

Ally and Shelby explore the history and the ever-evolving landscape of gambling destinations where you will hear about one of the oldest casinos in the world and some of the innovative technologies shaping the future of gaming today.

Place your bets, grab your chips, roll the dice, and join us on this captivating journey through the world of casinos, gambling around the globe.

EP 43: The Wine Grotto

From ancient vineyards to modern-day wineries, the history of wine is rich and woven through history. Dating back farther than 4000 BCE, wine was a divine drink used for royalty, uniqueness, and trade. Today, wine continues to evolve, blending tradition with innovation as vineyards explore new techniques to create another symbol of celebration and culture.

Ally and Shelby explore the unique experience wine has brought to Michigan by visiting The Wine Grotto at St. John’s Resort in Plymouth, MI. A 2023 Award of Excellence venue with a robust wine list and exceptional atmosphere. You will want to visit The Wine Grotto for National Wine Day on May 25th.

EP 42: The Windy City

CHICAGO! Being the 3rd largest city in the United States, Chicago is a staple for good food and lots to do. The city's architecture alone will have you mesmerized as you float down the Chicago river.

Ally and Shelby talk about their experiences in Chicago, famous tourist attractions, and some of the famous Chicago style food that so many people adore. From the largest Starbucks in the world to walks along Millennium Park, you won't want to miss all that there is to do, in Chicago!

EP 41: Easter Eggs

Easter is coming early this year in March! With the weather in Michigan being as warm as it has been, the sun might be shining when everyone wakes up to do their Easter Egg hunts. But what about other Easter traditions around the world?

Ally and Shelby explore the fun facts revolving around Easter Eggs, how to prepare them, Gunnison World Records, and the ways different cultures share their Easter traditions. Tune in now and see if some of your Easter traditions stem from across the globe!

EP 40: Cruises

Let’s cruise on into 2024 and talk about the luxury of traveling on sea. From first class tickets to modern day mega ships, cruise lines have dated back to the 1800s.

Ally & Shelby discuss how the world has transformed mail carrier and cargo ships to leisure cruises sailing all over. Mixed in with their own experiences, there are plenty of stories and activities to hear about aboard a ship.

And what would 2024 be without mentioning Taylor Swift? There is even a cruise designated to the Swifties. Tune in this month and decide for yourself if you’re taking your next family vacation via cruise.