Whether that guy in seat 32B is shouting into his speakerphone while you’re trying to read, or a stranger's bare feet appear inches from your tray table, air travel has become a tricky social experiment in a very confined shared space. 

When etiquette rules collide at 30,000 feet, what’s the best way to handle these situations when there’s no way out?

In this episode, host Angie Orth welcomes Nick Leighton and Leah Bonnema, co-hosts of the wildly popular etiquette podcast Were You Raised By Wolves? Leighton, a producer and former journalist, and Bonnema, a comedian, tackle the social decorum disasters that unfold in airports and airplanes with humor and honesty. 

You'll hear their take on reclining seat controversies, why "gate lice" is an airline problem more than a passenger one, and the shocking foot-tickling incident that landed in their inbox. They'll share strategies for politely reclaiming your space, explain why middle seat passengers deserve both armrests, and reveal the one change that would solve most air travel etiquette disasters.

What You’ll Learn:

1:44 Why etiquette matters more than ever in air travel

13:39 The "gate lice" phenomenon and who's really to blame

22:12 The definitive rule for armrest allocation

30:02 Why personal device volume has spiraled out of control

43:25 The most outrageous etiquette question about air travel

Connect with:

Nick Leighton 

[email protected]

https://www.instagram.com/nicholasleighton/

https://www.nickleighton.com/

Leah Bonnema

https://www.instagram.com/leahbonnema/

https://www.leahbonnema.com/

Were You Raised By Wolves?

https://www.wereyouraisedbywolves.com/

https://www.instagram.com/wereyouraisedbywolves

https://www.facebook.com/wereyouraisedbywolves

https://www.youtube.com/wereyouraisedbywolves

What’s YOUR biggest air travel pet peeve? Tell us about it 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Holding on to the memories of the places we travel through souvenirs is an act of preservation. They are the physical manifestations of our travel experiences captured through the things we buy, collect, and even photograph along the way. 

Souvenirs are meaningful not only for ourselves, but they’re also a way of sharing those stories with others when we return home.

Today, Angie Orth welcomes travel writer Rolf Potts. He has reported from more than seventy countries and six continents for publications including National Geographic Traveler, The New Yorker, Slate.com, the New York Times Magazine, and the Travel Channel. He is the author of Souvenir (Object Lessons), a book that explores the cultural history of travel souvenirs. 

You’ll learn the history of bringing objects home from travel journeys through the ages, and how souvenirs have evolved as access to travel has expanded and changed. You’ll hear about a Japanese-inspired tradition that imparts a deeper connection between the objects we choose and the people we gift them to, and you’ll learn how to be a more discerning shopper when it comes to selecting souvenirs. 

What You’ll Learn:

• (03:03) The definition of a souvenir
• (07:39) A deeper way to think about souvenirs
• (10:47) How photography has influenced our travel memories
• (14:57) Advice on choosing ethical, meaningful souvenirs
• (16:42) When to buy souvenirs on your trip

Connect with Rolf Potts:

https://rolfpotts.com

https://www.instagram.com/rolfpotts/

https://x.com/rolfpotts

https://www.facebook.com/rolf.potts

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa 

https://clubadventures.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises