Rides, fairytales, mythology, and epic snacks…oh my!  

Universal’s Epic Universe is making a serious splash on bucket lists everywhere. But where do you even begin to tackle such a monumental, full-on experience so that you can get the most out of your visit?

Well, just like magic, you’ve landed in the right place. This episode reveals all you need to know about planning your visit, when to go, where to stay, which ticket upgrades to splurge on, and the rides and eats that you shouldn’t miss. 

What You’ll Learn: 

1:22 The technology wow factor at Epic

1:53 Which ticket gets you the most perks

2:35 Where to stay 

3:08 How to plan your days at Epic

4:36 The best seats on popular rides

5:51 Must-eat snacks to munch on

6:39 How to make the most of an afternoon drizzle

7:14 The most underrated experience

Today, host Angie Orth is on location in Orlando with Epic Universe Theme Park Expert Jacqueline Dole. Dole is a frequent visitor to Orlando’s theme parks who shares up-to-date insider tips for visitors. Her writing has been featured in Travel + Leisure,  Food & Wine, and Condé Nast Traveler. 

You’ll hear her top tips on when to visit and where to stay to make the most of your days. She shares her favorite attractions and lays out a plan of action for tackling the park that helps you avoid the lines and get the best seats on the most exciting rides. You’ll also hear about the park’s most popular snacks and which experience she thinks deserves more fanfare. 

Connect with Jacqueline Dole:

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

Website: https://www.jacquelinedole.com/

Which snack are YOU most excited to try at Epic Universe? 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

Think travel insurance is just an optional expense? Think again. With Americans planning to spend $226 billion on travel this year, smart travelers are making insurance non-negotiable.

From missed flights and cruise ports to unexpected illness and injury, this episode dives deep into the myriad of travel interruptions that could upend your trip and how to protect yourself from them. 

You'll discover why more Americans than ever are prioritizing vacations, the surprising travel trends shaping 2025, and the simple safety net that could save your entire trip investment.

What You’ll Learn:

03:39 The "what could go wrong" scenarios you never considered

09:35 Daniel's $3,000 hospital nightmare in Punta Cana 

16:57 What 2020 taught us about travel priorities

28:15 The "Taylor Swift Effect" on the travel industry

40:10 The one travel rule that offers instant peace of mind

Today, host Angie Orth welcomes Daniel Durazo from Allianz Partners, a travel insurance expert with decades of industry experience. He helps guide travelers through protection strategies and shares insights from Allianz's annual Vacation Confidence Index.

You’ll learn essential strategies for protecting your travel investment and hear real-world examples of when travel insurance becomes a financial lifesaver. You’ll also hear about current travel trends, like “bleisure”, “The Taylor Swift Effect”, and “micro-cations”.

Connect with Daniel Durazo:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danieldurazo/

CTA: Have you had a travel emergency where insurance saved the day? An experience where you wish you’d had it? 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

What if there were a place where you could portal back to the wonder you felt as a kid? 

Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida, is a real-life, tangible immersion into worlds you couldn’t actually visit...until now.  

Epic Universe is more than a nostalgic journey through the past. It’s your passport into a world where the impossible comes to life right before your very eyes!

What You’ll Learn: 

2:36 What’s special about Orlando’s Super Mario Land

3:26 Donkey Kong’s US debut

7:09 A fun and furious Viking flight in Isle of Berk

9:17 Why Celestial Park is the place to be after dark

10:57 Monster transformations at Dark Universe

17:40 A visit to Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic

20:52 The most technologically advanced ride at the park

Today, host Angie Orth is on location at Epic Universe, bringing you firsthand accounts of what it’s like to visit the places we once thought were just make-believe. She interviews the people behind the making of these whimsical lands, learning how they came to life and the inspiration behind the magic. 

You’ll experience the childlike wonder of worlds like Nintendo’s Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country. You’ll dig into the viral Mac N’ Cheese Cones on the Isle of Berk (but you might have to share with the fire-breathing dragons). You’ll take a 7 million star-lit journey through Celestial Park. You’ll go deep into the monstrous underworld of Dark Universe, then grab a Butterbeer at the Ministry of Magic. 

Guests Featured:

Andrew Padua, Creative Director for Super Nintendo World

Anthony Armenia, Universal Products

Anitra Pritchard, Senior Manager of Show Direction, Casting, and Creative Support

Christopher Colon, Executive Sous Chef, Research & Development 

Cathy Fisher, SVP of Parks Global Merchandise

Pete Carcillo, Senior Creative Director of Dark Universe

Gary Blumenstein, Senior Director of Creative Direction

Connect with:

Universal Epic Universe

What are YOU most excited to experience at Epic Universe? 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

Stunning pyramids and well-preserved ancient artifacts are reason enough to make Egypt a bucket-list destination. But Egypt offers a rich tapestry of experiences that stretches far beyond its iconic monuments. Pristine coral gardens bloom in the waters of the Red Sea, and young craftmakers and artisans make their mark in Cairo boutiques. Truly experiencing Egypt requires merging ancient adventure-seeking with a touch of modern-day authenticity.

Today, host Angie Orth is back with travel writer Lauren Keith, who’s written about her experiences in Egypt and throughout the Middle East for Lonely Planet, Fodor’s, National Geographic, Afar, Travel + Leisure, and Smithsonian Magazine. 

You’ll hear about the lesser-known aspects of visiting Egypt, such as its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich culinary traditions. You’ll take a journey beyond ancient history to discover modern-day Egypt. You’ll hear about breathtaking diving experiences in the Red Sea and explore the bustling streets of Cairo filled with artisan crafts. You’ll also hear about must-try local cuisine and learn how to experience Egypt in a more intimate and authentic way.

What You’ll Learn:

• (1:11) Diving into the Red Sea
• (3:47) Hub of modern Egyptian culture
• (6:22) How to seek out authentic Egyptian souvenirs
• (7:34) Where to shop
• (9:47) Foods to try

Connect with Lauren Keith:

Website: https://noplacelike.it/

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

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 on a sunset cruise, traveling along the same waters that have carried pharaohs, merchants, and dreamers for over five millennia. The Nile River echoes a rhythm as old as civilization itself, where the lifeblood of Egypt flows through landscapes dotted with ancient temples and bustling historic villages. On the Nile, you're part of a tradition that spans from Cleopatra's royal barges to modern cruise ships.

Today, host Angie Orth welcomes Lauren Keith, a seasoned travel writer who has covered Egypt and the Middle East for Lonely Planet, Fodor’s, National Geographic, Afar, Travel + Leisure, and Smithsonian Magazine. 

You’ll hear about her recent visit to Egypt, where she took a Nile River cruise. You’ll learn about the historical significance of the Nile as well as the evolution cruising the river from ancient times to today. You’ll also find the Grand Egyptian Museum, and she shares tips on travel and cultural etiquette for visitors.

What You’ll Learn:

• (2:13) History of Nile cruising
• (12:52) Timing your visit
• (20:39) Emerging destinations in Egypt
• (22:56) First-time visitor tips
• (32:31) Cultural etiquette for visitors

Connect with Lauren Keith:

Website: https://noplacelike.it/

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

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

Over the past decade, public art projects have brightened up big cities and small towns alike. Tired old building facades have become blank canvases where local artists have made names for themselves and put their hometowns on the map. 

Murals and other forms of public art not only add vibrance and character to a place, they also help boost tourism. Travelers can find inspiration in trendy, up-and-coming neighborhoods and authenticity in off-the-beaten-path rural communities, all thanks to this colorful trend.

Today, host Angie Orth welcomes Kristin Luna, a journalist, tourism marketing pro, and photographer. Her love for public art inspired her to start a successful nonprofit mural program in Tennessee. She combines her passions and frequently travels to see murals in the U.S. and beyond.

You’ll hear about the economic and cultural benefits of public art as well as how cities of all sizes are embracing this movement. You’ll discover the role of murals in community resilience, cultural identity, and social media. You’ll also learn about Luna’s personal journey advocating for public art and the importance of engaging communities in the creative process.

What You’ll Learn:

• (1:46) How cities are embracing mural artwork
• (5:59) Cities leading the movement
• (14:55) The role of art in cultural identity
• (21:06) Engaging communities through public art
• (23:58) Social media's influence on public art

Connect with Kristen Luna:

https://www.camelsandchocolate.com

​​https://www.instagram.com/lunaticatlarge

https://www.dma-events.com/

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

Taking the scenic route can often lead to the most memorable surprises during a trip. Roadside fruit stands, amazing antique stores, and frozen-in-time accommodations can leave lasting impressions. 

Across the United States, retro motels and hotels are making a comeback. Not only are they filled with nostalgia, but many have received luxurious facelifts that combine comfort with local charm. Today, host Angie Orth is back with photographer, author, and road tripper B.A. Van Sise. His interest in retro hotels and motels has landed him in several unique, lesser-known accommodation options dotted throughout America.

You’ll discover which retro hotels and motels should be on your bucket list. You’ll hear about why retro hotels and motels like the Madonna Inn and Clown Motel are worth taking the road less traveled. You’ll learn how going retro makes traveling fresh and fun.  

What You’ll Learn:

• (0:39) A totally over-the-top experience
• (1:52) Where to take a step back in time
• (2:57) An unusual retro stay
• (3:52) Where to road trip your way through the past
• (4:08) Unexpected places to find retro accommodations

Connect with B.A. Van Sise:

https://bavansise.format.com/

https://www.instagram.com/b.a.vansise/

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

An off-the-beaten-path hotel or motel room can be more than just a place to rest your travel-weary head at night. These one-of-a-kind properties can be destinations unto themselves, offering both unique charm and local history. Modern interstates have bypassed many such fun and funky accommodations, but the significance of retro hotels and motels across America still has a place in history—and the future. 

Today, host Angie Orth welcomes photographer, author, and road warrior B.A. Van Sise, r. When traveling, his preferred way to stay is retro, rediscovering the past through the hotels and motels that unapologetically remind us of times gone by. 

You’ll hear how retro accommodations not only offer nostalgic experiences but also serve as vital pieces of local history in their respective communities. You’ll learn where to find some of the best retro stays, and how embracing their individuality and character helps preserve these relics of hospitality for future generations. 

What You’ll Learn:

• (2:40) Defining retro hotels and motels 
• (7:00) The allure of nostalgia in travel 
• (14:48) The evolution of roadside hospitality 
• (22:32) Experiencing America beyond the highways 
• (24:23) The importance of preserving retro hotels

Connect with B.A. Van Sise:

https://bavansise.format.com/

https://www.instagram.com/b.a.vansise/

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

Travel can be a great motivator to explore the unknown while pushing your limits. Expanding your comfort zone takes a bit of bravery. The more you challenge yourself, the easier it becomes to do it the next time, learning more about what you’re capable of in the process. 

Today, host Angie Orth is back with Jeff Jenkins, the man behind the popular Chubby Diaries blog and host of the National Geographic Channel travel adventure series Never Say Never. As a content creator and travel journalist, he’s been motivating audiences to overcome their fears about travel. 

You’ll hear his top tips for safely embarking on new adventures away from home. You’ll also learn how he overcame his biggest fears and when he knew he reached—and accepted—his personal limit. 

What You’ll Learn:

• (1:10) Examining your comfort zone
• (1:53) A safety-first mentality
• (3:32) The mantra he travels by 
• (4:37) His current comfort zone challenge  
• (9:36) Expert advice for pushing your boundaries 

Connect with Jeff Jenkins:

https://chubbydiaries.com/

https://www.instagram.com/chubbydiaries/

Traveling with AAA: Has Social Media Ruined Travel? Featuring Jeff Jenkins

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

Travel often takes us to unfamiliar places, challenging the norms that we’re used to facing. Whether we’re navigating unknown streets, trying new foods, or doing our best to communicate with people in different languages, these experiences broaden our horizons and expand the boundaries of our comfort zones.  

Today, host Angie Orth welcomes Jeff Jenkins, content creator, travel journalist, and host of the National Geographic Channel adventure travel series Never Say Never. His popular blog, Chubby Diaries, helps people overcome their personal fears about travel, proving that exploring the world and experiencing adventure is possible for everyone.

You’ll hear how Jenkins developed his personal philosophy on travel and how ambitious goal-setting has become a road map for following through on his dreams. He shares how overcoming his fears has changed him. You’ll learn how tackling your fears and pushing your boundaries through travel can inspire personal growth and lead to self-discovery.

What You’ll Learn:

• (1:46) Granting yourself permission to dream
• (5:19) Why we often don’t challenge our comfort zones
• (11:27) Setting personal goals for travel
• (14:27) Putting it down on paper  
• (19:35) Balancing adventure with relaxation 

Connect with Jeff Jenkins:

https://chubbydiaries.com/

https://www.instagram.com/chubbydiaries/

Traveling with AAA: Has Social Media Ruined Travel? Featuring Jeff Jenkins

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