Go See Do Explore

Most travelers heading to Spain think of Barcelona, Madrid, or the sunny Mediterranean coast. But along Spain’s northern coast is Asturias, a lush, green region with dramatic cliffs, beautiful fishing villages, distinctive food traditions, and a culture all its own.

In this episode, Christopher and Ashleigh continue their Spanish adventure in Gijón, a coastal city on the Bay of Biscay, where they’ve traveled to experience a total solar eclipse and spend time with local friends.

Their visit offers a different side of Spain, where cider is poured dramatically from overhead, hearty regional dishe...

A trip to Spain gets off to a much rougher start than planned when a delayed LEVEL flight from New York to Barcelona turns into an overnight airport stay, a cancellation, and nearly a full day of uncertainty about whether the trip will happen at all.

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We share the full story of getting stranded at JFK, what we learned about dealing with a...

What happens when the port you booked a cruise for disappears from the itinerary?

Christopher and Ashleigh continue their Rhapsody of the Seas trip recap with a port-by-port journey through the Caribbean. After Dominica is unexpectedly replaced with La Romana, they explore a mix of familiar islands, new destinations, excellent private tours, disappointing cruise-port experiences, and places that completely changed their opinions.

In St. Thomas, they kayak through mangroves, learn about the dangerously poisonous manchineel tree, and confront the cost and limitations of getting around the island as a cruise passenger. Check out this excursion...

A cruise from San Juan offers something most departure ports cannot: the chance to turn embarkation into a Puerto Rico vacation of its own.

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Christopher and Ashleigh are back from their sixth trip to Puerto Rico in four years and their second cruise sailing from San Juan. Before boarding Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas, they spent several low-key days in Fajardo, wo...

In this episode of Go See Do Explore, we’re recapping two recent close-to-home adventures: a Memorial Day weekend in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and a visit to the newly relocated Jackson Home at Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Michigan.

Milwaukee surprised us in the best way. It’s walkable, easy to enjoy over a long weekend, and full of good food, interesting architecture, river views, and low-pressure things to do. We stayed downtown at the Drury Plaza Hotel and discovered just how much value can come with a stay there, from hot breakfast to the evening “Kickback.” We also took an...

Christopher and Ashleigh welcome back their friend Mark, a familiar voice from the old Generation Mouse days, for a conversation about Disney’s announced update to Walt Disney World’s Carousel of Progress. Read all about the announced updates here. 

The episode starts with a fun throwback before diving into why this attraction matters so much to Disney fans: its 1964 World’s Fair roots, Walt Disney’s direct connection to it, and its long history as one of Magic Kingdom’s classic attractions.

They talk through what appears to be changing, including a new timeline that begins...

In this episode of Go See Do Explore, we’re talking about the travel opinions we’ve changed over time. Not necessarily dramatic reversals, but the kind of practical shifts that happen after enough trips, mistakes, surprises, and “we are never doing that again” moments.

We each brought five things we’ve changed our minds about, without comparing lists ahead of time.

Topics include:

We’re back in Mexico City — this time returning with family and revisiting many of our favorite spots while mixing in a few new experiences.

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We talk through what it’s like flying a low-cost airline internationally, navigating delays and airport chaos, and why private tours made a big difference on this trip.

From there, it’s a deep dive into one of t...

Travel Is Not a Luxury (And Why That Matters More Than You Think) How We Think About Travel and Money

We are not anti-budget. We do value enjoying life.

The goal is to have a plan and then fit travel into that plan in a way that makes sense for you. Not based on what someone on a podcast says, but based on what you actually want your life to look like.

Travel is just one of the things in that mix, but for us it is an important one.

How We Budget...

Travel Inspiration from the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show

We attended the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show and heard from some of the most respected voices in travel. Here are the ideas that stuck with us.

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Seek Out “B-Side” Destinations

Travel expert Samantha Brown encouraged travelers to look beyond Europe’s most famous cities.

Instead of only visiting places like V...

A long weekend escape to Toronto that somehow included a cheese-wheel pasta moment, a winter-friendly “walk indoors” downtown route, a surprise winery day trip, and (of course) a tiki bar stop.

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Ashleigh and Christopher recap their February getaway to Toronto, including where they stayed, what they ate, the best sights for a cold-weather trip, and a side quest to Niagara-on-the-Lake for...

Puerto Rico in a Week: Old San Juan, Santurce, and the Stops We’d Repeat

A last-minute holiday trip turned into one of our favorite Puerto Rico itineraries yet. This was our fifth visit to the island, and instead of trying to see everything, we split the trip between Old San Juan and Santurce, rented a car only when it made sense, and focused on the experiences we genuinely love repeating.

In this episode, we share the practical decisions that made this trip work, what we’d do differently next time, and the places we keep returning to —...

January 2026 Travel News: New Routes, Smoother Airports, and What Actually Matters This Year

A new year brings big shifts across the travel world — and in this episode, we break down what’s actually worth paying attention to as you plan trips for 2026.

From major airline route expansions and new nonstop options to Hawaii and the Caribbean, to changes that could quietly improve (or complicate) your airport experience, we cover the developments that impact real travelers — not just industry headlines.

You’ll hear about:

Airline mergers in Mexico and what they could mean for...

A Year of Going Deeper: Our 2025 Travel Recap

In this end-of-year episode, we sit down to recap our 2025 travels — not as a highlight reel, but as a reflection on how we travel, why our preferences are changing, and what we’re carrying forward into the next year.

Puerto Rico (New Year’s) — navigating island infrastructure realities and adapting plans on the fly

Chicago — the Travel & Adventure Show, favorite neighborhoods, and standout food

Mexico City — private guiding, home cooking, and a trip that permanently raised our expectations

Traverse C...

December 2025 Travel News

Christopher and Ashleigh guide you through December’s most practical travel updates, from shifting airline routes to festive European destinations, with their trademark blend of honest insight and flexible planning tips.

This episode’s wine break skips the glass a...

Travel Trends 2026: Skyscanner’s Surprising Predictions & Value Destinations

Christopher and Ashleigh are your guides this episode as they dig into Skyscanner’s forward-looking report on how—and where—we’ll be traveling in 2026. They break down emerging trends, highlight offbeat and best-value destinations, and share honest perspectives on what might actually shape your future trips. To read the full report, click here.

The conversation kicks off with some genuinely unexpected trends Skyscanner is forecasting:

Airports Without Stress: Practical Tips for a Better Travel Day

Christopher and Ashleigh share their favorite strategies for turning the airport from a dreaded obstacle into a surprisingly enjoyable part of your travels. Drawing on their own experiences and a mindset shift, they offer concrete ways to minimize stress, stay flexible, and even discover small pleasures along the way.

From booking smarter to making the most of your time before takeoff, the episode covers practical steps that help you avoid common headaches and find value—no matter where you’re flying. Christopher and Ashleigh emphasize trea...

Travel Mistakes We’ve Actually Made- And How to Avoid Them

Christopher and Ashleigh share honest stories about their own travel missteps—so you don’t have to learn the hard way. This episode is packed with practical lessons, from booking blunders to overambitious itineraries, all with the goal of helping you plan smarter and travel happier.

From wrong hotels in Manhattan to misaligned flights and rental cars in Puerto Rico, the hosts open up about mistakes that even seasoned travelers make—plus the simple systems and mindset shifts that help them recover (and sometimes even lau...

Top 10 Michigan Christmas Experiences: Light Shows, Markets & More

Christopher and Ashleigh share their favorite ways to make the most of Michigan during the Christmas season, curating a list that blends festive classics with offbeat finds for a memorable holiday adventure. Here is a rundown of what they discuss:

October 2025 Travel News

Christopher and Ashleigh are back with a fresh roundup of the month’s most relevant travel news—curated to help you navigate shifting airline policies, cruise expansions, and what’s actually changing for travelers right now. Whether you’re planning a trip or just want to make sense of the headlines, this episode is packed with candid perspective and practical takeaways.

Airline News:

Frankenmuth’s Best: Festivals, Food, and “Little Bavaria”

Christopher and Ashleigh guide you through all that makes Frankenmuth, Michigan, a memorable destination—whether you’re passing through on a road trip or planning a special getaway. With its Bavarian roots, festive energy, and a blend of quirky and classic attractions, “Michigan’s little Bavaria” offers more than meets the eye.

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Start with Frankenmuth...

September 2025 Travel News: Airlines, Accessibility & Reopened Parks

Christopher and Ashleigh guide you through a packed September news roundup, blending the latest airline updates, travel tech, and U.S. destination highlights—plus a hands-on homemade limoncello break inspired by Italian adventures.

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...

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.

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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!)
Use an audio guide app (We recommend GuideAlong) for context and trailhead callouts; drive at golden hour for easier parking.

2) R...

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 privat...

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 th...

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...

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

Fu...

The Taste of Tradition: Exploring New Orleans Cuisine
What happens when history, culture, and flavor collide on every plate? In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher share their recent experience navigating the rich and diverse food scene of New Orleans — a city where every bite tells a story.

Why New Orleans Cuisine Matters
With deep roots in French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean traditions, the city’s cuisine is bold, soulful, and anything but ordinary. Think gumbo that simmers all day, muffulettas stacked with flavor, and beignets that are worth the powdered sugar mess.

Some of t...

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.

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...

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...

Finger Lakes Escape: Waterfalls, Wine, and Wonder

In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher dive into their recent adventure through New York’s Finger Lakes—where glacier-carved lakes, quiet towns, and world-class wineries come together to create an unforgettable getaway.

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Why the Finger Lakes?

This region in western New York is made up of long, narrow lakes surrounded by rolling hill...

Discover Traverse City: Sand Dunes, Wineries & Lake Life

If Traverse City, Michigan has been on your radar—or even if it hasn’t—this episode is for you. Ashleigh and Christopher break down everything you need to know for a first visit: from hidden gems and outdoor adventures to the best places to stay, sip, and unwind. Whether you're planning a long weekend or a summer escape, this guide will help you experience Traverse City like a local.

Set along the clear blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay, this northern Michigan destination offers more than j...

May & June 2025 Travel News

Ready to spark ideas for your next adventure or just stay in the know? In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher break down the most relevant travel headlines from May & June 2025—no fluff, just real-world updates and thoughtful insights for curious travelers.

Airline & Transit News

Newark Airport is expected to return to normal operations by October, easing travel in and out of the NYC area. (https://www.newser.com/story/369835/faa-says-newark-airport-should-be-ok-by-october.html)

Summer 2025 airfare is trending 10% cheaper than last year—good news if you’ve been eyeing a trip b...

Pies Descalzos with Laila Navarro Part 2
How Travel Can Transform You

In this heartwarming continuation of our conversation with Mexico City guide Laila Navarro, we go deeper into the why behind her unforgettable tours.

Moments That Matter
Laila shares powerful stories from her guests—like the man who returned to the Basilica after healing. These aren't just tours. They're memories made together. Laila pours her heart into making each experience “something special,” and it shows.

Travel as a Force for Good
For Laila, travel is more than checking off a list...

Pies Descalzos with Laila Navarro Part 1

A Two-Part Journey Through Mexico City

What if your next trip felt less like sightseeing… and more like a revelation?

Laila didn’t plan to be a tour guide — in fact, she studied architecture and design. But after burning out in underpaid creative jobs, she stumbled into the world of guiding and discovered something that lit her up. Learn how a simple trial tour turned into a calling, and how she sees travel as a bridge between people, history, and nature.

Some of...

Mexico City: Must-Do Experiences Beyond the Guidebook

In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher share the standout moments from their Mexico City trip—what was absolutely worth it, what surprised them, and what they’d do differently next time.

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Centro Histórico
The city’s historic core is packed with must-see sites like the Zócalo, Templo Mayor, the Cathedral, and Diego Ri...

In this episode of Go See Do Explore, Ashleigh and Christopher continue their Mexico City series by focusing on one of the best parts of the trip: the food.

They share favorite dishes, reflect on what makes Mexican cuisine so regionally distinct, and talk about how trying local food can deepen your connection to a place.

Mole Negro Enchiladas
Christopher starts with the mole negro enchiladas from Azul Histórico. Mole is a complex, deeply rooted Mexican sauce, and this version left a lasting impression.

Carnitas Tacos with Cheese
Ashleigh highlights t...

April 2025 Travel News: Airline Perks, Cruise Comebacks & Wine Country Wandering

This month’s travel news roundup comes to you from a breezy spring campsite in Traverse City, Michigan, where we’ve been sipping wine, stargazing, and dreaming up our next adventure. Along with headlines that caught our attention, we’re also teasing a new series inspired by our recent trip to Mexico City — more on that soon.

Airline News Highlights

A United flight had to turn around mid-air because the pilot forgot his passport (yes, really). 

Spirit Airlines is adding 15 new routes ou...