Go See Do Explore

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March 2015 Travel News
Ashleigh and Christopher discuss the latest travel news for March 2022 from Mexico City. Topics include Southwest Airlines eliminating free checked bags, a fire at Heathrow Airport causing major delays, New Orleans being named the #1 food city, and more. Please click the below links for more information about each story. 
Airline News
Southwest Airlines will no longer allow two free checked bags in order to be competitive with other low-cost carriers. https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/15/goodbye-free-bags-southwest-airlines.html
Southwest Flight almost took off from Taxiway
https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/03/21/southwest-airlines-orlando-taxiway-takeoff/82589309007/
A fire at an electrical substation caused Heathrow Airport to close for 18 hours, disrupting over 1300 flights. https://edition.cnn.com/world/live-news/london-heathrow-airport-shut-intl-hnk-03-21-25/index.html
TAP Air Portugal and Avianca are opening a new lounge together in Miami. https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Airline-News/TAP-Avianca-share-lounge-space-MIA
Skyscanner launched a new "Drops" feature to notify travelers when flight prices drop significantly. https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/flights/2025/03/24/airfare-drops-for-cheap-flights-tips/82628262007/
U.S. Travel News
The Rocky Mountaineer train in the US is rebranding as Canyon Spirit and expanding service to Salt Lake City.  https://www.frommers.com/tips/car-bus-rail/rocky-mountaineer-trains-american-spinoff-to-get-easier-cheaper-and-a-new-name/
A fire in Epcot's France pavilion at Walt Disney World, causing evacuations. https://www.usatoday.com/videos/travel/news/2025/03/23/epcot-fire-breaks-out-disney-no-injuries-reported/82626198007/
Timeout Magazine named New Orleans the #1 food city in the world right now. https://www.timeout.com/travel/worlds-best-cities-for-food#
Global Travel News
Japan doubled the fee to climb Mount Fuji to 4000 yen (~$27) to help keep the mountain clean. https://edition.cnn.com/travel/japan-mount-fuji-fee-test-overtourism-intl-hnk/index.html
Wine Break
Ashleigh and Christopher discuss Mexican wine, which they have enjoyed during their trip to Mexico City. They highlight the Nebbiolo grape and wines from Valle de Guadalupe. Mexican wines are often light-bodied reds that pair well with Mexican cuisine. Most Mexican wine is consumed domestically, but some producers like LA Cetto can be found in the US, even occasionally at Costco.

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Top Ten Things to Do When Preparing for a Trip
On this episode of Go See Do Explore, Christopher and Ashleigh share their top 10 tips for preparing for an upcoming trip. They cover everything from charging devices and packing essentials to arranging transportation and tidying up the house before leaving.
Always Be Charging
Christopher's first tip is to make sure all devices are fully charged before leaving for a trip. He recommends setting devices next to their chargers the night before departure so everything is topped up and ready to go.
Make a List
Ashleigh always starts by making a list of what to pack as well as any tasks that need to be completed before leaving like feeding pets or paying bills. Checking things off a list helps avoid last minute panics.
Set a Reminder to Check In
For flights, Christopher sets an alarm 24 hours before departure to check in online as early as possible. This confirms all the details are in order and improves chances of not getting bumped from full flights.
Check the Weather
Knowing the forecast at your destination helps guide packing decisions. Ashleigh also recommends checking typical clothing styles to blend in better as a visitor.
Download Offline Maps
Christopher downloads offline maps to his phone when traveling anywhere new. This provides navigation even without cell service or data.
Stock Up on Entertainment
Ashleigh prepares by downloading shows, movies, books, and podcasts to have entertainment options readily available without relying on in-flight systems.
Refill Toiletries and First Aid Kit
A week before leaving, Ashleigh reviews toiletries and first aid supplies and restocks anything running low. Better to take care of this at home than pay inflated prices for essentials while traveling.
Print Documents
Christopher recommends printing out any important travel documents you may need rather than relying solely on digital copies. This includes reservations, tickets, insurance paperwork, etc. Also, for international trips, locate your passport at least a week in advance. Verify it's valid and avoid last minute passport emergencies.
Clean and Tidy the House
Ashleigh tries to straighten and clean the house before leaving so it's not a mess to come home to after a tiring trip.
Confirm Transportation Plans
Figure out parking and transportation for getting to the airport well in advance. Book discounted parking if available.
Weigh Your Luggage
For flights, Christopher recommends weighing your bags beforehand to avoid fees for overweight luggage.
Wine Break: Agiorgitiko from Greece
During the wine break, Christopher and Ashleigh try a rare Greek red wine called Agiorgitiko. They describe flavors of red fruit, plum, and blackberry. At 14.5% alcohol, it's quite strong but enjoyable.

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Chef Shawn of Kingston Kitchen
In this episode of the podcast, Christopher and Ashleigh sit down with Chef Shawn Fearon, the owner of Kingston Kitchen on Mackinac Island, Michigan. Originally from Jamaica, Chef Shawn shares his inspiring journey to the United States and the unique challenges of opening and running an authentic Jamaican restaurant on Mackinac Island.
Discover how Chef Shawn creatively adapts traditional Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken and oxtail to fit local regulations (including clever workarounds for island rules on open-flame cooking!). Learn about his popular fusion dishes such as jerk chicken quesadillas and jerk chicken Alfredo.
We discuss:
Chef Shawn's journey from Jamaica to Michigan
The unique experience of operating a restaurant during Mackinac Island’s intense tourism season
Authentic Jamaican cuisine: ingredients, traditions, and Chef Shawn’s favorite dishes like Jamaican oxtail
Innovative fusion dishes including jerk chicken quesadillas, smoked jerk chicken without traditional pimento wood, and other creative adaptations
The exciting opening of a second Kingston Kitchen location in St. Ignace
Wine Break
Christopher and Ashleigh also enjoy a tasting of Michigan’s Chateau Grand Traverse Gruner Veltliner wine, highlighting its refreshing, floral notes ideal for warm weather.

Top Ten Things to Do in Detroit
In this 50th episode, Ashleigh and Christopher dive into their top 10 must-see attractions and activities in Detroit. 
Motown Museum
Tour the original Hitsville U.S.A. where Berry Gordy founded Motown Records. See Studio A where hits were recorded and even sing a few bars yourself.
Belle Isle
Frederick Law Olmsted-designed park offering nature trails, architectural sights, kayaking, and more right in the Detroit River.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
Moving, emotional exhibits that comprehensively trace African American history and culture.
Detroit Institute of Arts
World-class museum featuring Diego Rivera's famous Detroit Industry murals depicting the city's manufacturing heyday.
Historic Building Tours
See prime examples of Detroit's architectural wonders like the Guardian Building, Fisher Building, and Michigan Central Station.
See a Show
Take in spectacular performances at venues like the Fox Theatre, Masonic Temple, Fisher Theatre, and more.
Sporting Events
Catch games conveniently located downtown at new arenas like Little Caesars Arena and Ford Field.
Ford Piquette Avenue Plant
Tour the still-standing original factory where the first 12,000 Model T cars were assembled.
Mexican Town
Savor delicious cuisine in this vibrant neighborhood near Michigan Central Station.
Wine Break
Ashleigh and Christopher celebrate episode 50 with a higher-end Prosecco DOCG from Italy's Veneto region.

February 2025 Travel News
In this episode, Christopher and Ashleigh discuss the latest travel news for February 2025.
Airline News
American Airlines will begin flying from Chicago to Honolulu in October 2026 on a Boeing 787-8, its longest domestic route. (https://www.travelandleisure.com/american-airlines-chicago-honolulu-11683485)
Direct flights from New York to Puglia, Italy will start in June on Nios Airlines (https://www.travelandleisure.com/neos-airlines-puglia-jfk-bari-8786338)
Southwest's partnership with Icelandair allows booking Southwest flights to Europe (https://thepointsguy.com/news/southwest-airlines-icelandair-partnership-how-to-book/)
Spirit Rejects Frontier's Merger Bid Again (https://thepointsguy.com/news/spirit-airlines-rejects-frontier-merger-proposal/)
The cheapest airports to fly to in the US (https://www.travelandleisure.com/cheapest-most-expensive-airports-government-data-8787606)
Cruise News
Royal Caribbean will homeport in San Diego for the first time in over a decade (https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/cruises/2025/02/13/royal-caribbean-cruises-san-diego-california/78517781007/)
Celebrity Cruises announces plans to enter the European river cruise market (https://www.frommers.com/tips/cruise/celebrity-cruises-announces-its-getting-into-small-boat-european-river-cruising/)
Other News
Uber will start showing fares in travelers' home currencies rather than local currencies, adding a convenience fee (https://www.frommers.com/tips/money-and-currency/should-travelers-make-credit-card-purchases-in-their-home-currency-the-lesson-of-ubers-dirty-trick/)
National Park Service Layoffs will affect Summer travel (https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/experience/national-parks/2025/02/25/national-park-service-layoffs-what-to-know/80234977007/)
World's Tallest Roller Coaster Coming Down (https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/experience/theme-parks/2025/02/21/kingda-ka-demolition-six-flags-great-adventure/79413031007/)
Paris to Milan Train Reopens (https://www.travelandleisure.com/direct-train-connecting-paris-milan-is-finally-back-11678615)
Increased Fee to Climb Mount Everest (https://www.cnn.com/travel/nepal-increases-mount-everest-climbing-fee-2025-intl-hnk/index.html)
Wine Break
Christopher and Ashleigh try a Marquette Reserve red wine from Burgdorf's winery in Michigan. They discuss hybrid wine grapes like Marquette that are crosses between American and European grape varieties.

Expedia's Travel Hacks for 2025
Teaser
We discuss a recent Expedia study on travel hacks for getting the best deals in 2025, covering topics like the best days to book flights, when to travel for the lowest prices, and trending destinations for the coming years. Click here to read to read the report from Expedia.
Booking Flights: Cheapest Days and Times
For domestic flights, book on Sundays - saves 6% on average
For international flights, book on Sundays - saves 17% on average
Most expensive days to book are Mondays and Fridays
The cheapest day can change over time as prices fluctuate. Best not to rely on one particular day forever.
Traveling: Cheapest Days and Months
Cheapest day for domestic flights is Saturday
For international, cheapest day is Thursday
Most expensive month is March due to spring break
Cheapest month for travel is August when kids go back to school
Booking Timeline
For domestic flights, book 34-86 days out
For international, book 18-29 days out
For hotels, book 1 week out
Flight Cancellations
Book between 9am-3pm to avoid cancellations
September is the best month - 1.2% less cancellations
Trending Destinations
Domestic
Detroit
New York City
Kansas City
Washington DC
Philadelphia
International
Goa, India
Bucharest, Romania
Tijuana, Mexico
Perugia, Italy
Chengdu, China
Wine Break
We try mulled cherry wine from Wisconsin's Door Peninsula Winery. Christopher shares his recipe using mulling spices from the Spice House and cherry wine. A nice wintry drink! 
Outro
That's our take on Expedia's 2025 travel hacks study. Let us know if you have questions or are visiting any trending destinations. Email us at podcast@goseedoexplore.com.

Travel Would You Rather?
This week Ashleigh and Christopher play a fun travel-themed game of "Would You Rather?" covering topics like flights, hotels, budgets, destinations and more. Which would they choose - unlimited free flights in economy or luxury hotels and paid flights? Listen in to find out!
Intro
Ashleigh and Christopher introduce the show and explain they're playing a travel "Would You Rather" game this week.
Wine Break
Ashleigh and Christopher taste Handstand White wine from Chateau Grand Traverse and discuss the history of the winery and its founder.
Travel Insurance
Ashleigh discusses an article about how medical claims accounted for the most travel insurance claims in 2024, especially on cruises. They provide tips for purchasing travel insurance.

2025 Travel and Adventure Show in Chicago
Introduction
Ashleigh and Christopher share that they recently attended the Travel and Adventure Show in Chicago, and they want to bring back some of the knowledge they learned to share with listeners.
Some of the links below are affiliate links and as so, we earn a small commission without costing you anything extra.
Travel and Adventure Show Speakers
Andrew McCarthy
- Actor and travel writer who has worked for National Geographic - Big takeaway from his talk was "don't be afraid." Say yes to opportunities when traveling. He told a story about accepting an invitation to golf in Ireland which ended up being a life-changing experience.
Angel Castellanos
- Runs a YouTube channel called "The Tour Guy" focused on travel tips and tours in Europe - Very helpful with efficient travel techniques and packing tips
Pauline Frommer
- Daughter of Arthur Frommer, founder of Frommer's Guidebooks - Shared inspirational stories and quotes from her father about budget travel - Talked about places where the American dollar stretches furthest for travel
Russell Hannon
- Canadian travel expert with a background in optimization and efficiency - Great tips for saving money on travel with systematic approaches - Favorite website he mentioned: IMOOVA for relocating vehicles very cheaply. They recommend his book: Stop Dreaming Start Traveling.
Scott Mayerowitz
- Formerly with The Points Guy website - Gave tips for getting around inconveniences imposed by travel brands - Suggested joining AARP at age 18 for discounts
Wine Break
Christopher and Ashleigh share their favorite wines from off-the-beaten path wine regions: - Saperavi from Georgia - Nebbiolo from Mexico - Lambrusco from Italy - Cabernet Franc from Michigan - Etna Rosso from Sicily
Weekend in Chicago
Ashleigh and Christopher share highlights from their weekend getaway to Chicago for the Travel Show: - Stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn downtown, close to favorite restaurants - Ate at favorite breakfast spots like Beatrix and Wildberry Pancakes - Enjoyed dinner at Eataly, Frontera Grill, and deep dish pizza at Pizzeria Uno - Shopped at specialty grocery stores like the Spice House, Nespresso, and Ghirardelli
Conclusion
Ashleigh and Christopher encourage listeners to check out a Travel and Adventure Show if there is one coming to their area.

Ten Ways to Beat the Winter Travel Blues
Hosts Ashleigh and Christopher talk about how they’ve been missing their recent trip to Puerto Rico and have a bit of the post-travel blues as winter sets in. They share 10 tips for beating the winter travel blues.
Revisiting Photos and Videos from Past Trips
Ashleigh suggests going back through photos from your last trip and printing them to create a photo book. She also recommends displaying travel photos around your house as cheap art.
Take a Trip Somewhere Warm
Christopher's #1 tip is to simply take a trip if you're able to get away, even just for a long weekend.
Cook Food Inspired by Your Last Destination
Ashleigh recommends finding recipes for dishes you enjoyed during your last trip. It helps you recreate some of the experience at home.
Plan Future Trips
Both Ashleigh and Christopher enjoy spending time researching and planning future trips, even if they don't have firm dates. It helps beat the winter blues by giving you something to look forward to.
Take Local Day Trips
Ashleigh suggests taking day trips nearby to get out of the house and experience something new, like visiting a museum.
Attend a Travel Show
Christopher recommends attending a travel show like the Travel & Adventure Show to get inspired about future destinations.
Practice a Foreign Language
Christopher shares that practicing a foreign language for an upcoming trip helps beat the blues. Ashleigh mentions she has a 1,700+ day Duolingo streak!
Consume New Travel Content
Both hosts recommend finding new travel TV shows, YouTube channels, podcasts, etc. to discover fresh content and get inspired. Listen to episode 23 and 28 for inspiration.
Make a Travel Bucket List
Christopher suggests making a bucket list of places you want to visit. It helps give you something to look forward to.
Flight Deal Alerts
Ashleigh mentions flight deal alert services like Going and NextVacay that can help you find and book cheap flights.
Bonus Tip: Pretend You're on Vacation
Christopher shares a weird tip he saw online - turn up the heat in your house, play sounds/video of a beach, and pretend you're on vacation somewhere warm!
Mental Health Reminder
If your winter travel blues continue several weeks after returning from a trip, talk with a healthcare provider.
Wine Break: Valpolicella Ripasso
The hosts try a Valpolicella Ripasso wine from the Veneto region of Italy. Christopher explains how the winemaking process for Ripasso incorporates pomace left over from making Amarone wine.
 

January 2025 Travel News
In this episode, Christopher and Ashleigh discuss the latest travel news from January 2025.
Airline News
3 more instances of people attempting to stowaway on aircraft: https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/01/10/airline-stowaway-incidents-passenger-safety/77513734007/
Passenger opens door during taxi at Boston Logan airport: https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/01/08/passenger-opens-plane-door-boston-logan-airport/77539477007/ 
The most turbulent domestic US flight routes in 2024 all flew over the Rockies:
https://www.travelandleisure.com/most-turbulent-flight-routes-2024-8771077
America Airlines Groundstop Causes Delays on Christmas Eve: https://www.travelandleisure.com/american-airlines-ground-stop-lifted-resumes-flights-8766260 
JetBlue was fined $2 million by the Department of Transportation for chronically delayed flights:
https://www.travelandleisure.com/jetblue-delayed-flights-fine-usd2-million-passengers-8768705
Delta is ending its partnership with Lyft and joining with Uber instead:  https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Airline-News/Delta-starting-loyalty-program-partnership-with-Uber
Silver Airways filed for bankruptcy despite adding new routes recently: https://travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Airline-News/Silver-Airways-Chapter-11-filing
Avianca plans to add 5 more routes to Florida: 
https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Airline-News/Avianca-plans-five-more-Florida-routes
US Travel News
Congestion pricing requiring drivers to pay a fee to enter parts of Manhattan is now in effect in New York City: https://www.travelandleisure.com/nyc-congestion-pricing-plan-taxi-uber-lyft-8769694 
Ski patrollers in Park City, Utah reached a contract agreement to end their strike: https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2025/01/09/park-city-ski-patrol-contract-strike/77575521007/ 
Wildfires have damaged attractions like the historic Topanga Ranch Motel in Los Angeles: https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/North-America-Travel/Los-Angeles-fires-close-attractions 
International Travel News
The UK's new electronic travel authorization requirement goes into effect this week, costing travelers about $12: https://www.travelandleisure.com/uk-eta-fee-authorization-january-2025-8769833 
The world's steepest cable car opened in Switzerland as part of a project connecting several mountain towns: 
https://www.euronews.com/travel/2024/12/16/switzerland-unveils-the-worlds-steepest-cable-car-leading-up-to-james-bond-revolving-resta
Secret passageways built by the Medicis in Florence are now open to the public for tours: https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/21/travel/vasari-corridor-secret-passageway-florence-italy/index.html 
Taiwan launched a 6-month visa targeted at remote workers: https://www.travelandleisure.com/taiwan-digital-nomads-6-months-8768932 
A new luxury tented camp is opening in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park: https://www.travelweekly.com/Middle-East-Africa-Travel/New-luxury-tented-camp-Serengeti-Tanzania-Wilderness-Collection 
Wine Break
Christopher and Ashleigh tried a Verdicchio wine from Italy's Veneto region. Christopher discussed principles of pairing wine with different foods like spicy, fatty, or sweet dishes. The Verdicchio went well with their tacos because the sweetness balanced the heat.