Michigan Fall Getaways: Color, Cider, and Cozy Adventures

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.

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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. Here's the full list: 

During a relaxed wine break, Christopher shares a Chianti Classico from Fattoria Montemaggio, enjoyed earlier at a family lunch. He explains the nuances of the Chianti Classico region and grape blend, encouraging listeners to rediscover this traditional Italian red—especially with a hearty meal.

Rounding out the conversation, Ashleigh and Christopher point to other fall gems: Tahquamenon Falls (with both impressive upper and picturesque lower falls), the scenic M-22 drive and wineries of the Leelanau Peninsula, Brockway Mountain Drive near Copper Harbor for dramatic vistas, and a suite of autumn festivals and Halloween events across the state. They also note that southern Michigan and Metro Detroit offer plenty of cider mills and hiking spots for those wanting to stay closer to home.

For honest, practical inspiration on planning your own Michigan fall adventure—without the tourist traps—tune in to this episode of the Go See Do Explore Podcast.

Scranton’s “The Office” Tour and Detroit Exploring

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.

Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.

In Scranton, the hosts share their thoughtful approach to maximizing a short visit, using the Lackawana County Visitors Bureau’s downloadable map to hit both iconic “Office” filming spots and local highlights. Lunch at Alfredo’s Cafe (yes, that Alfredo’s) kicks off their route, and from there they trace the show’s legacy across town—from the “Welcome to Scranton” sign in the mall to Cooper’s seafood restaurant and its bustling “Office” gift shop. Christopher and Ashleigh also mention lesser-known stops for fans, like the Dwight mural, Poor Richard’s, and the world’s largest Dundee inside City Hall (if you’re visiting midweek). For those looking beyond TV nostalgia, they note the Steamtown National Historic Site, the Electric City Trolley Museum, and Scranton’s walkable downtown connections.

A quick wine break features the Two Lads 2023 Pinot Gris—dry, fruit-forward, and refreshingly acidic—before Christopher and Ashleigh pivot to their recent Detroit explorations. They reflect on Detroit’s growing reputation as a destination, with visits to historical sites like the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant (original Model T factory), bustling Eastern Market, and the quirky People Mover public transit. Their hotel stay at the Fort Pontchartrain by Wyndham offered panoramic city views, even if the bathroom was notably small!

From quirky TV nostalgia to Detroit’s inventive dining and history, this episode is all about making the most of your time and savoring experiences with intention. Tune in to the Go See Do Explore Podcast for more honest stories and practical advice to inspire your next thoughtful adventure.

Acadia Essentials: Top 10 Things to Do on Mount Desert Island

Planning Acadia and short on time? We wrap our third visit into a crisp, no-fluff Top 10 for Mount Desert Island—what’s actually worth it, how to dodge crowds, and a few splurge-or-save decisions. You’ll get practical tips on parking, reservations, and timing so you can see more and stress less.

What we cover

1) Drive the Park Loop Road (first!)

2) Ride the free Island Explorer buses

3) Get on the water

4) Explore the Carriage Roads

5) Jordan Pond House tea & popovers

6) Explore Bar Harbor and the towns on the Quietside

7) Hit the trails

8) Lobster (and wild blueberry pie)

9) Beyond the main loop

10) Cadillac Mountain for sunrise or sunset

Bonus ideas

Paddle a pond/lake: Echo Lake was a calm favorite; Jordan Pond is gorgeous but parking/logistics are tricky and it’s a drinking water source (no swimming).

Camp: Seawall & Blackwoods (NPS) are rustic; Smuggler’s Den (private) is convenient for hookups and location.

Timing & logistics cheats

Do your full Park Loop drive once by car; use Island Explorer after.

Mid-to-late afternoon often opens parking at Sand Beach/Jordan Pond.

If seasickness is a thing, pick harbor/sunset cruises over offshore puffin runs.

Ladder trails close seasonally for peregrine falcons—check status at NPS.gov.

Wine Break

If this helped you plan smarter, follow/subscribe and share with a friend who’s Acadia-curious.

In this episode of Go See Do Explore, Ashleigh and Christopher take you inside their week in Montreal — a city that feels like a slice of Europe just north of the border. From camping just outside the city to savoring world-class food and exploring vibrant neighborhoods, they share the wins, surprises, and lessons learned along the way.

You’ll hear about:

What it’s like staying at a KOA campground outside Montreal (and the trade-offs of camping vs. city stays).

Driving and parking tips that made exploring the city stress-free.

Their private walking tour — including the epic climb up Mount Royal.

Must-see museums: the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of History & Archaeology.

A food lover’s dream: featuring bagels, gnocchi, smoked meat, and of course poutine.

A rooftop tiki bar, Neapolitan pizza, and Montreal Steak.

Montreal’s stunning Notre Dame Cathedral and why the lighting alone makes it unforgettable.

The reality of the French/English language balance — and what they wish they’d prepared for.

Whether you’re planning your first trip to Montreal or just curious about what makes this city so special, this recap will give you inspiration, practical tips, and plenty of foodie temptation.

Links and resources mentioned in this episode (some are affiliate links at no extra cost to you):

Lokafy Private Walking Tour

Montreal Walking Food Tour

Ultimate St. Lawrence Boat Tour

For more photos, itineraries, and extras from our Montreal adventure, head to: GoSeeDoExplore.com

Ontario by Camper: Bruce Peninsula, Algonquin Adventures & Unexpected Wine Country

On this episode of Go See Do Explore, Ashleigh and Christopher kick off the first part of their three-week Canada & New England camping road trip. From long-awaited stops in Ontario’s stunning Bruce Peninsula and Algonquin Provincial Park to a spontaneous discovery of wineries between Ottawa and Montreal, they share the real ups and downs of life on the road.

Highlights include:

Why Bruce Peninsula National Park was a must-visit and what makes the grotto so spectacular

Rustic camping challenges (and the surprisingly luxurious bathhouse) at Cypress Lake

Canoeing memories brought full circle in Algonquin and the joy of front-country paddling

A quirky roadside fry stand tradition you’ll only find in Western Ontario

Their take on an under-the-radar wine region near Montreal

How flexible planning turned detours into discoveries

Whether you’re dreaming of paddling pristine lakes, exploring small Canadian towns, or just curious about road-tripping with a camper, this episode blends inspiration with practical tips.

This week, Ashleigh and Christopher are back home (and out of the camper!) with a full roundup of the latest travel news. From airlines rethinking old rules to cruise lines rolling out bold new itineraries, here’s what travelers need to know before planning their next trip.

In this episode:

TSA ends the “shoes-off” policy at many U.S. airports—and what might be next.

Lithium battery rules tightening: what it means for chargers, cameras, and under-seat bags.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/08/08/emirates-power-pack-restrictions-fire-danger/85573843007/

Alaska Airlines expands overseas routes 

https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/08/05/alaska-airlines-london-reykjavik-new-livery/85524743007/

Spirit’s new Caribbean flights at budget-friendly fares.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/08/05/spirit-airlines-belize-city-grand-cayman/85524290007/

https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/08/04/delta-new-patriots-day-flights-florida/85511420007/ 

Princess Cruises unveils its largest Japan Deployment ever for 2027 

https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/princess-cruises-unveils-its-most-spectacular-japan-cruise-season-ever-with-exclusive-access-to-cultural-festivals-and-coastal-wonders-in-2027/

https://cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/2025/07/norwegian-cruise-line-to-build-waterpark-at-great-stirrup-cay/

https://www.travelweekly.com/River-Cruising/Amsterdam-lays-out-plan-to-limit-river-cruising

https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Tour-Operators/Smithsonian-Journeys-unveils-new-river-cruises-with-AmaWaterways

Amtrak’s new Acela trains and why they matter.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2025/08/07/amtrak-new-acela-train-starting-service/85560474007/

Wildfire damage at the Grand Canyon North Rim

https://azdailysun.com/news/local/impacts-of-dragon-bravo-fire-are-daunting-even-before-the-flames-are-out/article_dc6f2020-8092-4673-b7b5-e5cba8595bf3.html

The Beak & Barrel to open at Magic Kingdom this month

https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/first-look-beak-and-barrel-opening-august-29/

Avis launches new premium service at select airports 

https://www.travelandleisure.com/avis-launches-curbside-car-rentals-at-airports-11781977

Why EU passport stamps are disappearing

https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2025/08/07/european-union-passport-stamps-removal/85562101007/

A major lawsuit that could change how hotels set prices online.

https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Hotel-News/European-hotels-join-class-action-against-Booking-Holdings

Plus: a summer wine break featuring an under-the-radar white that’s perfect for warm weather sipping.

Road Trip Like a Pro: Smart Planning for Epic Adventures

Dreaming of the open road but want to avoid the stress, wasted miles, and missed experiences? In this episode, we share our step-by-step approach to planning an unforgettable road trip — from choosing your route and lodging to finding those perfect along-the-way stops.

We cover:

How to decide between camping, hotels, or a mix of both

Why your own car might not always be the best option

Tools we use to map routes and avoid exhausting drive days

Furkot.com

Strategies for booking popular spots before they sell out

How to plan attractions without overloading your schedule

The importance of flexibility when weather, work, or whim changes your plans

Whether you’re heading out for a weekend loop or a multi-week cross-country journey, you’ll walk away with practical tips to make your road trip smoother, more enjoyable, and full of moments worth remembering.

The Taste of Tradition: Exploring New Orleans Cuisine

Why New Orleans Cuisine Matters

Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.

Tried-and-True Classics (That Actually Live Up to the Hype)

Commander's Palace – Legendary Creole dining, jazz brunch, and yes… 25¢ martinis at lunch.

Dooky Chase – A cornerstone of both culinary and civil rights history.

Evangeline – A solid, less touristy French Quarter pick with real local charm.

Napoleon House – A muffuletta + Pimm’s Cup combo in a building with stories to tell.

Quick Bites & Local Favorites

Café du Monde – Touristy? Sure. Still worth it? Absolutely.

Central Grocery – Grab the OG muffuletta to-go and find a shady spot nearby.

Stein’s Deli – When you're craving a killer Reuben that rivals NYC’s.

A Few Offbeat Gems

Latitude 29 – A tiki bar done right, with food that surprises.

French Toast – A wallet-friendly breakfast spot tucked near the French Market.

The Maison – Live jazz + gumbo fries = a very New Orleans night out.

Wine Break

Planning tip: Check out New Orleans Foodies on Facebook for more restaurant ideas!

A Trip Through New Orleans: Culture, Music, and the Unexpected

In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher dive into the heart of New Orleans, a city where every corner feels like a blend of stories, rhythms, and layered history. From its iconic jazz roots to its hidden courtyards, New Orleans offers more than just a party—it's a place that stays with you.

Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.

Why New Orleans Feels Different

Founded in 1718, New Orleans has lived many lives—French, Spanish, and American rule have all left their mark. It's a city shaped by resilience, including the profound impact of Hurricane Katrina and its recovery in the years since.

But beyond the headlines, this is a place where cultures overlap in ways that feel alive. The architecture, the music, the food—each tells its own part of the story.

Reasons to Go (That Go Beyond Bourbon Street)

A rich cultural fusion that includes French, African, Caribbean, and Spanish influences

Music that pulses through the city—from traditional jazz to funk and brass bands

Creole and Cajun food that surprises with every bite

Local traditions like second line parades and porch concerts that bring people together

A sense of place that feels historic without being frozen in time

Staying in the Right Spot

While the French Quarter is iconic, it can get pricey. For something more grounded but still walkable, consider Marigny or Bywater—neighborhoods with soul, great coffee, and colorful houses that are fun to explore on foot. We stayed at the Hotel de la Monnaie, right on the edge of the French Quarter and Marigny.

Exploring the City

Take a hop-on hop-off tour for a low-effort overview

Join a walking tour of the Garden District or French Quarter to dig deeper

Ride the St. Charles streetcar or cruise the river on a steamboat

What to See & Do

Frenchmen Street – An essential spot for live music, minus the chaos of Bourbon

St. Louis Cathedral & Jackson Square – Picturesque, yes, but still worth seeing

The National WWII Museum – Powerful and incredibly well-curated

Mardi Gras World – A behind-the-scenes look at the floats and pageantry

Swamp tours – Get outside the city and into Louisiana’s unique natural world

Eating & Drinking Well

Try the classics—beignets, po’ boys, seafood gumbo, and muffulettas. Don’t skip the local cocktails either; a properly made Sazerac is a taste of New Orleans in a glass. Be sure to check back next week for our recap of New Orleans dining!

Wine Break: A Red for Summer

This week’s wine pick is a chilled red from Billsboro Winery in the Finger Lakes. It’s light, juicy, and perfect for warmer weather—something to sip on a patio while remembering live brass echoing from Frenchmen Street. They also suggest trying chilled Gamay or Pinot Noir for a similar feel.

June 2025 Travel News

In the Skies

Big shakeups in the airline world this month:

Silver Airways has shut down abruptly after filing for bankruptcy earlier this year. Known for its quirky pink prop planes in the Caribbean, it’s a nostalgic loss for travelers chasing off-the-beaten-path routes. https://www.travelandleisure.com/silver-airways-abrupt-shutdown-11753079

Skytrax’s Top 10 Airlines of 2025 has dropped, offering fresh inspiration for your next international trip. Think long-haul luxury and exceptional service — with Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific claiming the top three spots. https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/17/travel/worlds-best-airline-2025-skytrax

Play Airlines, the Icelandic budget option many used for transatlantic deals, will stop flying to the U.S. by October. If you’ve been eyeing a budget-friendly Iceland or Europe trip, now’s the time. https://thepointsguy.com/news/play-airlines-ends-all-us-flights/

The EU has stepped in to require free carry-on bags for all flights. This move could upend the ultra low-cost model in Europe and finally bring transparency to those “too good to be true” fares. https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20250627-the-big-change-affecting-european-travel

Cruise Updates

Cannes, France is drawing a line: starting in 2026, no cruise ships with more than 1,000 passengers. The port will also cap daily visitors to 6,000 — a potential game-changer for anyone craving more authentic, less crowded shore days. https://cruiseradio.net/french-riviera-port-cracks-down-on-large-cruise-ships/

Carnival is overhauling its loyalty program in 2026. Instead of rewarding how many days you sail, they’ll focus on how much you spend. Also new: loyalty status will expire after 2 years. Expect ripple effects across the industry. https://cruiseradio.net/carnival-cruise-lines-loyalty-program-changes/

U.S. Travel News

Hurricane season is expected to be active this year, with NOAA forecasting 19 named storms. If you're planning a coastal trip between June and November, it’s worth keeping an eye on forecasts and having travel insurance. https://www.travelandleisure.com/noaa-warning-above-normal-hurricane-season-in-2025-11748873

Disney is tightening restrictions on third-party Disney Vacation Club rentals. Going forward, only friends and family can use DVC points — a major shift if you’ve relied on rentals for affordable Disney stays. https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2025/06/29/disney-vacation-club-changes-commercial-renters/84372282007/ 

Epcot’s Test Track returns July 22 with a high-tech facelift. Same track layout, new experience — ideal for anyone planning a trip to Walt Disney World later this year. https://www.positivelyosceola.com/test-track-returns-to-epcot-july-22-with-high-tech-makeover-and-all-new-musical-score/ 

New York Port Authority is offering half-off AirTrain fares during major construction at JFK Airport— a rare win for NYC travelers. https://www.frommers.com/tips/car-bus-rail/jfk-airtrain-half-off-in-nyc-summer-2025/ 

In Las Vegas, some hotels are dropping those notorious resort fees amid a tourism dip. It’s the perfect time to find real value without hidden charges. https://www.frommers.com/tips/hotel-news/-las-vegas-strip-hotel-without-resort-fees/ 

Amtrak expands! A new Mardi Gras line will connect Mobile, AL to New Orleans — a scenic and relaxed way to get to the party. https://www.wctv.tv/2025/07/02/amtrak-line-opens-between-mobile-new-orleans/?outputType=amp 

Global Travel Intel

Hertz’s new AI scanners are causing controversy by detecting and billing for “invisible” damage. If you’re renting a car, it’s wise to document everything — even what you can’t see. https://www.frommers.com/tips/car-bus-rail/hertz-is-using-ai-scanners-to-charge-rental-car-damage-that-human-eyes-miss/ 

Honduras now requires a measles vaccination or test from travelers arriving from 24 countries, including the U.S. https://www.frommers.com/tips/health-and-travel-insurance/travelers-are-now-required-to-show-proof-of-measles-vaccination-in-this-cruise-destination/?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwLSRsRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHj4BYHUvFjVl5MNaVCJ3-Vz9XnRZyhFhllWotO6E1gRN3j0Cua0vzgLkdojg_aem__Z55g4vDDMpTgRYd0XMn7Q#mcm7jwnmddododj1kt 

A second Frida Kahlo museum, Casa Roja, just opened next to Casa Azul in Mexico City. It's a must for art lovers looking to go deeper than the standard tour. https://www.frommers.com/trip-ideas/arts-and-culture/how-mexico-citys-new-frida-kahlo-museum-will-offer-a-fresh-look-at-the-artist/ 

India just debuted the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River in Kashmir. It’s an engineering marvel — and potentially a new bucket-list route for train lovers. https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/06/travel/india-world-highest-bridge-kashmir-chenab-intl-hnk 

Wine Break

Hot weather calls for chillable, refreshing wines. Some go-to picks:

Sparkling wines — both white and red

Dry rosé (nothing cloying)

Crisp whites like Vinho Verde

Unoaked whites such as Pinot Grigio

Light reds like Beaujolais or chilled Gamay Noir

Skip the bold Cabs for now. Instead, look for wines with a little bite or bitterness over sweetness — they’re much more refreshing when the temperature climbs.