The Frommer's Travel Show
Since the 1957 publication of Arthur Frommer's (1929-2024) seminal Europe on $5 a Day, the Frommer guidebooks have been America's most trusted travel source. This podcast, hosted by Arthur Frommer's daughter, and President of FrommerMedia LLC, Pauline Frommer, gives listeners the low down on what's happening in the world of travel today. Topics range from the most appealing destinations, to money-saving and enjoyment-enhancing trends, to books and TV shows that bring travel into your daily life, and more. Expect guest appearances by some of the biggest names in travel today, including Samantha Brown, Andrew McCarthy, Frances Mayes, Jason Cochran, travel journalists from...
Fishing Vacations: Advice from Peter Miller, Host of Uncharted Waters on Discovery
What should you look in when hiring a captain, and what’s the best way to rent a boat? What are some of the top places to try a fishing vacation for the first time, and what sort of critters should you stalk? How can you make sure you’re doing no harm to the environment when you hit the open seas? How can you get children interested in fishing? Peter Miller, 3 time World Sailfish Champion, and host of the Discovery Network’s documentary series “Uncharted Waters," patiently answered these questions and many more. #fishingholiday, #fishingtravel, #gonefishing, #fishinglife
Mentio...
Homer's The Odyssey: A Discussion of the World's First Travel Book with Phil Cousineau
With a blockbuster film on the horizon, Phil Cousineau has written the ideal companion book "The Wisdom of the Odyssey: 24 Life Lessons from Homer's Epic". In this episode, we discuss where you can go to see some of the places where The Odyssey was set, why the book still rings true today, and ways to incorporate mythology and folklore into your own travels. Cousineau is the author of the iconic travel book "The Art of Pilgrimage" and the long-time host of the PBS TV series "Global Spirit".
Mentioned in this episode:
*Homer
*The...
An American Revolution Road Trip, Created by PBS Star Darley Newman
In her new book “Revolutionary Road Trip: Hidden Stories from America’s Founding Journey”, PBS T.V. host Darley Newman has found a number of vacation-worthy sites and activities that bring history to life. In this episode, she discusses what to see and do in Princeton, New Jersey; Brandywine, Pennsylvania; and Charleston, South Carolina.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our...
Amsterdam Today, Plus a Soupçon of Paris
Pauline Frommer discusses her recent trip to Amsterdam and Paris with Frommers.com’s Editor In Chief Jason Cochran. The discussion ranged from Amsterdam’s painful World War II history, to 17th century Dutch drinking games, to what it’s like to attend a traditional wedding in Paris, the how to’s of getting into some of the top sights in each city, and much, much more.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings t...
Antoni Porowski’s Insights Into the Best of London, Paris, and Mexico City
Netflix star Antoni Porowski (Queer Eye) has teamed up with National Geographic for a new T.V. show called “Best in the World with Antoni Porowski”. We discussed how the main engineer behind London’s Big Ben keeps it ticking, Paris’ cycling culture and secret historic furniture warehouse, Lucha Libre in Mexico City, and much more.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all...
Beyond Shoofly Pie: Rediscovering Lancaster County, PA
Lancaster County, PA has a new cultural center, the nation’s premier rock & roll tour hub, compelling historic sites, intriguing 2026 events, and yes, Amish culture, making it a top summer vacation destination. We discussed what’s new, and what’s often overlooked, with Jeff Vasser of Discover Lancaster.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyasc...
A Spotlight on Sugar Land, Texas
One of the fastest growing cities in the United States is yet to be discovered by tourists. We talked with Alison Brooks, of Visit Sugar Land, about why it could be a nice addition to any Texas vacation.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored...
Minnesota: What’s New and What’s Always Exciting In This Water-Blessed State
Events in Minnesota over the last year have made the state seem like a “no go” zone. But that couldn’t be farther from the truth.
We talked with Visit Minnesota’s Executive Director Lauren Bennett McGinty about why vacationing there this year will not only the support the brave Minnesotans who filled our TV screens over the last 8 months, it could also be the trip of a lifetime.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascap...
Actor/Author Andrew McCarthy Travels the Length of the USA to Learn More About Male Friendship
Andrew McCarthy, star of such iconic films as Pretty in Pink and Less Than Zero, is also an accomplished travel writer. His latest book “Who Needs Friends: An Unscientific Examination of Male Friendship Across America” tells of a roadtrip from New York to California during which McCarthy visited old friends and dropped in on both quirky backwaters and places of historic importance. Along the way, he learns from the men he meets on the road what friendship means and why it’s a crucial element in a well rounded life. Pauline Frommer discusses the book and journey with McCarthy in tod...
Dude Ranch Vacations: Their Surprisingly Long History, And Why It’s A Type of Holiday to Consider
The Dude Rancher’s Association is turning 100 years old in 2026. We talked with Bryce Albright, the Executive Director of that organization about how this vacation activity started, the wide variety of ranch vacations that are available today, safety standards, costs, and unusual places to try dude ranching.
Mentioned in this episode:
MontanaWyomingArizonaCaliforniaNew MexicoOregonTexasWashington StateDude RanchingTrail RidesHorsemanshipKlondike RanchAbsaroka RanchGrand TetonsTravelFamily TravelMentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together th...
The Roots of Asian Food In Europe
The latest season of Lucky Chow with Danielle Chang is now available on PBS, and it concentrates on the boom in Asian cuisine, and Asian-influenced restaurants, in some of Europe’s most food-obsessed cities. Pauline Frommer talked with host Danielle Chang about how definitions of authenticity are shifting when it comes to food, how the colonial histories of both France and the United Kingdom have shaped their contemporary food cultures, and why Swedish farmers are now growing a variety of new crops.
Mentioned in this episode:
StockholmParisLondonBerlinCeltuceFarm-to-table cuisineChinese FoodVietnamese FoodSushiFood as ArtTravelFoodie TravelMentioned in...
Travelling With Your Pet
Danielle Gelfand wrote about the how to’s of taking your dog or cat on the road for the New York Times. She shared some tips with host Pauline Frommer.
#Travel #PetTravel #PetVacations #WeLoveDogs #WeLoveCats
Mentioned in this episode:
Microchips for petsDr. Michael Q. BaileyAmerican Veterinary Medical AssociationRover.comArizonaNevadaCar TripsPet Proofing Hotel RoomsPet Friendly HotelsMystic, ConnecticutStonington, ConnecticutUnited States Department of AgricultureWag.comPet Sitters InternationalMentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Ne...
Untold Stories of the Planet's Most Important Tourist Attractions
Ronan O’Connell discussed the history, legends, and innovations behind some of the world’s most heavily visited sights. O’Connell is the author of the new book “Hidden in Plain Sight: The Untold Mysteries, Myths, and Marvels of the World’s Most Popular Landmarks”.
Mentioned in this episode:
IstanbulHagia SofiaSingaporeGardens by the BaySuptertreesCloud ForestsFlower DomeDubaiBurj KalifaMashrabiyaParisMata HariEiffel TowerMentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podca...
Namibia and South Africa—The Adventure Continues
In the second part of this interview with Beatrix Stewart-Frommer, host Pauline Frommer’s peripatetic daughter, they discussed the highlights of South Africa and Namibia, plus safety issues, food, and whether or not a group tour is necessary for these destinations.
Mentioned in this episode:
NamibiaWindhoekSossusvleiEtosha National ParkSwakopmundCape TownCedarburgSowetoFoxcroft RestaurantThe Garden RouteJohannesburgG AdventuresSouth AfricaMentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find al...
Ghana: What It's Like to Visit Accra and the Cape Coast
This week, Pauline Frommer interviewed her daughter Beatrix Stewart-Frommer about her 3 month sojourn in the city of Accra (while working on a masters degree in Global Health), and her journeys around the country.Mentioned in this episode:AccraThe Cape CoastElmina CastleKakum National ParkTsenku WaterfallBeach clubs
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. ...
Affordable Wellness Vacations
Elaine Glusac, the Frugal Travelers columnist for the New York Times, came on to discuss wellness vacations that won’t break the bank. These include robotic massages, public bathhouses, forest bathing, affordable spas and more.
Places, treatments, and companies discussed in this episode included:
The New York TimesJapanScandinaviaFinlandSweden IcelandSaunasForest bathingHot springsMentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our po...
Jamaica is Back! A Look at the Post-Hurricane Island Paradise
Jamaica's Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett was today's guest, discussing the good news that 80% of Jamaica's tourism infrastructure is back in place, after the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. He also discussed why Jamaica's coffee is world class (and coffee plantation tours on island), the nation's cuisine and music traditions, some of the island's top attractions, and more.
Places, people, and companies mentioned in this episode
JamaicaNegrilOcho RiosTreasure IslandGolden EyeFireflyIan FlemingNoel CowardBob MarleyKingstonMontego BayRocky Point(Today's episode was a sponsored podcast.)
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel...
Monthly Journeys, a Year of Adventure: Insights and Money-Saving Strategies
Jen Ruiz, author of the book "12 Trips in 12 Months: Make Your Own Solo Travel Magic" discusses how she footed the bill for her landmark year on the road, and some of the exciting adventures she had.
Places discussed in this episode:
Meteora, GreeceArubaAntelope Canyon, ArizonaZion National Park, UtahToronto, CanadaMentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from...
Nevada Through the Eyes of Elite Climber Alex Honnold
If you saw the documentary "Free Solo," about Alex Honnold's awe-inspiring, rope-free ascent of the face of El Capitan in Yosemite, you know what brave, driven athlete he is. He shows another side of both himself, and his home state of Nevada, in his new T.V. series "Get A Little Out There with Alex Honnold" (on Outside TV). Today's episode covers both the adventures you can have in the state, and the oddball attractions you'll find there.
Companies, destinations, and documentaries mentioned in this episode:
Free SoloTaipei 101Outside TVGet a Little Out There With Alex...Less Discovered Spain
Peter Barron, one of the authors of the just published guidebook "Frommer's Spain", discussed ways to enjoy the uncrowded side to Spain, by going to less popular (but still tremendously appealing) regions and cities, and visiting the country when others don't.
Takeaways:
The just published Frommer's Spain guidebook is a substantial resource for travelers, meticulously written and edited to ensure accuracy and depth.This podcast emphasizes the importance of responsible tourism, particularly in over-touristed areas like Barcelona and Mallorca.Listeners are encouraged to explore lesser-known regions of Spain, such as Extremadura, which offers rich history and...Safaris, Belize (Via Hollywood), Bhutan, Mongolia, and More: Our Discussion of Frommer's Comfort in the Wild, Part 2
Jane Wooldridge, author of "Frommer's Comfort in the Wild: 1000+ Idyllic Nature Destinations—No Roughing It Required", continued her discussion of different types of travel that allow vacationers to get deep into the wild. She talked about African safaris, as well as safaris on the tundra to see polar bears; a lodge in Belize owned by one of the most famous film directors on earth; and places where you can have unique nature experiences in Armenia, Mongolia, and Bhutan.
Takeaways:
What you see on safari will vary depending on the time of year you go.Knowledgeable travel ag...Frommer's Comfort in the Wild is Out Now. A Talk with Its Author Jane Wooldridge
Jane Wooldridge, author of the recently released coffee table book "Frommer's Comfort in the Wild: 100+ Idyllic Nature Destinations—No Roughing It Required" is our guest today. She delves into how to pick the right expedition cruise, where the most beautiful treehouse hotels are, what it's like to stay in a geodesic dome, and how ranch vacations can put you in touch with American history.
(This is part 1 of a 2 part interview about the book.)
Takeaways:
The podcast introduces a new coffee table book titled 'Frommer's Comfort in the Wild', which features over one hundred id...What's New in New York City, Plus a Look at the Top Trends in Camping Vacations
Pauline Frommer discussed her newly released guidebook "Frommer's New York City 2026" and what the top culinary trends in the city are right now. She also talked about what it's like to visit NYC's newest observation deck, and how The Studio Museum, Sotheby's and The Jewish Museum have reinvented themselves. Then Kevin Long, CEO of TheDyrt.com, talked about how many new campers there were in 2025, what people can do when there's no room at the campsite, and how this form of vacation is evolving.
Takeaways:
The latest edition of Frommer's New York City guidebook was released...Montana's State Parks and Rodeo Culture, Plus a Look at When To Visit Yellowstone National Park
Patrick Doyle, from Visit Montana, discussed the ghost towns, badlands, and Native American sights found in Big Sky Country's state parks. He also discussed why rodeos are such a fun lens into the state's culture and traditions, and when is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park.
Takeaways:
Montana is characterized by vast landscapes and a relatively low population density, which affects visitor experiences.The state has numerous historical sites, including Fort Owen and St. Mary's Mission, which tell of the state's early days.Bannock State Park, a well-preserved ghost town, offers a unique glimpse...Secrets of Airport Lounges
Zach Helfand, author of "Airport-Lounge Wars: When you’re waiting for a flight, what’s the difference between out there and in here?" in the New Yorker Magazine discussed his quirky quest to visit every lounge in the New York area.
Takeaways:
Zach Helfand's article discusses the evolution of airport lounges from exclusive clubs to more accessible spaces, and the impact of credit card partnerships.Lounges have transformed the airport experience by providing amenities such as truly gourmet food, showers, sleep pods, private security screening and more.During the COVID-19 pandemic, airlines relied heavily on their cred...Vietnam Revisited: Insights from a Second Trip
Pauline Frommer and Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran discussed Pauline's second trip to Vietnam, which was just completed.
Takeaways:
The host emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation, particularly regarding visa applications, as a critical aspect of international travel.The episode highlights the cultural richness of Vietnam, including indigenous tribes and their fascinating customs, which the host explored during the trip.The discussion includes reflections on the modern tourism industry in Vietnam, noting both advancements and the potential for inauthentic tourist experiences.The host's experience at a dark restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City serves...Airfare Trends for 2026
Jesse Neugarten, founder of Dollar Flight Club, discussed strategies for getting the best airfares, at a time when travelers are facing a lot of headwinds.
Takeaways:
In 2026, the impact of artificial intelligence on airfare pricing has significantly reduced the window of opportunity for booking low-cost flights. Travelers should embrace 'gateway flexibility' by considering multiple departure airports, and itineraries that include domestic hops before international ones, to access better fares for international destinations. The traditional concept of an 'off season' for travel has become obsolete, necessitating a shift in strategy for cost-effective travel planning.Companies...
Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties Hit the Road
Avery Singer and Jolie Golub, founders of BachBoss an agency that creates customs tailored travel experiences for Hen and Stag parties, were our guests today. They discussed the most popular destinations for bachelor and bachelorette parties, over-the-top celebrity celebrations, and the biggest problems groups encounter when planning these sorts of roaming fests.
Takeaways:
The Travel and Adventure Show is set to take place in Seattle on January 10th and 11th, marking a significant event for travel enthusiasts. Attendees of the Travel and Adventure Show can get free tickets by using the code "FROMMERSVIP" when purchasing tickets...The Best Booking Engines for Airfares and Lodgings? A Smart Study Has Answers
Reid Bramblett, author of our recent studies on how to find the best booking engines for airfares, and the best ones for lodgings, unpacked his research. He discussed which sites find the lowest rates most consistently, how to filter results smartly, VPN uses for travel bookings, and when doing multiple searches will be the only way to find the lowest prices.
Takeaways:
The travel industry presents complex pricing structures that require careful examination to avoid overpaying. Reid Bramlett conducted an extensive study to identify the best booking engines for airfares and hotels. AI chatbots currently perform...On the Road: Madrid and Toledo
Pauline Frommer discusses her recent trip to Spain with Jason Cochran, Editor in Chief of Frommers.com
Takeaways:
In this episode, we discuss the cosmopolitan nature of Madrid, highlighting its expansive avenues, walkability, top restaurants and extraordinary museums. The culinary experiences in Madrid are diverse, ranging from molecular gastronomy to traditional tapas, showcasing the city's rich gastronomic culture. Our exploration of Madrid includes visits to renowned museums, where masterpieces from artists like Bosch and Goya captivate the imagination. The flamenco show at Corral de la Moreria stands out as a cultural highlight, demonstrating the city's historical...On the Road: Berlin and Utrecht
From her hotel room in Utrecht, Pauline Frommer talked with Frommers.com's Editor In Chief Jason Cochran about her adventures in that Dutch hotspot, and her just concluded visit to Germany's capital.
Links referenced in this episode:
frommers.comspotify.comcafe-frida.comalchemistclub.comtivolivredenburg.nlddrmuseum.deneue-museum.deCompanies and Attractions mentioned in this episode:
Melt the Band Cafe Frida Alchemist Club Gamalde Gallery Neue Museum Tivoli Vredenburg DDR Museum Brandenburg Gate Reichstag Checkpoint CharlieMentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
<...Tours for People Who Don't Want to Be "Tourists", Plus a Deep Dive Into the Spiritual Life of Japan
New York Times writer Jonathan Zwickel discussed his recent article about tours that uncover the political and economic forces that are shaping life in Athens, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro, and other important cities. Then Hiroko Yoda discussed her illuminating book about Japanese traditions, religious practices and life "Eight Million Ways to Happiness: Wisdom for Inspiration and Healing from the Heart of Japan.
Takeaways:
Zwickel recounts his experience of wandering through an Athens neighborhood, revealing the urban decay and struggles faced by locals. We discuss the importance of ethical tourism, emphasizing the need for respectful engagement...Amelia Earhart: Founder of the Modern Travel Industry? Plus a Look at Why She Disappeared
Laurie Gwen Shapiro, author of the new book "The Aviator and the Showman: Amelia Earhart, George Putnam and the Marriage That Made an American Icon" was today's guest. She discussed how Earhart shaped how we travel today, why she is still such a potent role model, and what happened to her on her final flight.
Takeaways:
The contemporary travel industry owes much of its development to the pioneering efforts of early aviators, particularly Amelia Earhart, who significantly influenced public perception of air travel. Laurie Gwen Shapiro's book, 'The Aviator and the Amelia Earhart,' delves into...Best Places to Go in 2026, Part 3
In our final installment of our series on the best destinations for 2026, Pauline Frommer, Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson discussed Palawan in the Philippines, Portugal's Algarve region, Chicago, Adelaide in Australia and Vienna, Austria.
To see our Best Places to Go in 2026 photo-rich article, go to Frommers.com/BestPlaces2026.
Takeaways:
In 2026, Chicago will be a prominent travel destination due to the opening of the Obama Presidential Center, which is expected to significantly reshape the community. Vienna is poised to attract visitors with a plethora of cultural events...The Best Places to Go in 2026, Part 2
Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson, joined Pauline Frommer to discuss the destinations that will be particularly vacation-worthy in 2026. Today's show covered Peru, Jasper (Alberta, Canada), Hot Springs (Arkansas), Viti Levu (Fiji), Costa Navarino (Greece), and the United States' 250th birthday celebration venues. To see the complete list go to Frommers.com/bestplaces2026.
Takeaways:
In our discussion, we emphasized that Peru offers far more than just Machu Picchu, highlighting its diverse attractions. The recent political unrest in Peru has affected tourism, necessitating a focus on alternative destinations within the country...The Best Places to Go in 2026, Part 1
It's that time of year again! Frommer's writers from across the globe have nominated the places that they think will be especially appealing to visit in the coming year, for very specific reasons—important anniversaries, new features, affordability, you name it. From the dozens of suggestions, we narrowed the field down to 16. You can see the complete list at Frommers.com/bestplaces2026.
In this episode Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson, joined Pauline Frommer to discuss Asheville (North Carolina), Patagonia Azul (Argentina), Kruger National Park (South Africa), Albuquerque, and Oulu (Finland).
...Travel Costs in the Spotlight: A Look at Pricey Travel Medicine Clinics, Plus Why Prices are Rising for Hotels, Air Travel, and Rental Cars
Andrea Sachs, Travel Reporter for the Washington Post, discussed how to save money on inoculations and health advice for travel. Then Frommer's author Tamara Hinson discussed why so many travel prices are increasing, and how to save money anyway
Takeaways:
Travelers must be aware of the significant costs associated with vaccinations required for some international trips, as they can be exorbitant. Consultation at travel clinics can lead to unexpected expenses, and it is advisable to research beforehand to avoid overspending. Primary care physicians can provide valuable recommendations for vaccinations, potentially reducing unnecessary expenses . It is prudent...Japan Vacations: Expert advice from David McElhinney, author of the new "Frommer's Japan" guidebook
Frommer's Author David McElhinney joined Pauline Frommer to discuss the culinary specialties of different Japanese regions, walking vacation opportunities that mirror the Camino de Santiago experience, ways to experience Japan's sizzling pop culture, and some strategies for saving money on a Japanese vacation.
Takeaways:
Transportation in country is one of the highest costs travelers face, but buying a Japan Rail Pass may save you money. A look at its pros and cons.Accommodations can also take a bite out of the budget, so we discussed what capsule hotels are like, plus the more conventional but still...Airbnb + Hidden Spy Cameras: A Cautionary Tale from the New York Times' Tripped Up columnist. Plus the first look at a new company that could save you on airfare
Seth Kugel, the Tripped Up columnist for the New York Times, shared a shocking tale of an Airbnb stay that went wrong. He also gave advice on how to keep yourself safe in a vacation rental. Then Jason Lucking of pAIback.app, discussed this new flight savings tool.
The Frommer's Travel Podcast was named one of the 13 best for travel by the New York Times. It is hosted by Pauline Frommer, the Publisher of the Frommer's guidebooks and Frommers.com, with new episodes issued weekly.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of...
Cuba in 2025 with the Amateur Traveler's Chris Christensen
Traveling to Cuba today requires a knowledge of the law, and some strategies for getting the most out of your trip. Podcaster Chris Christensen of the Amateur Traveler podcast just recently returned from this storied island nation, and discussed some of the elements of a trip there, including:
Why United States citizens have to find non-hotel accommodationsHow issues with the power grid will impact travelWhy farm visits are so intriguing in Cuba (especially for cigar fans)How the beach scene differs in Cuba from other destinationsSome of the top sights and experiences in Havana and Trinidad...