Go See Do Explore

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Straits of Mackinac: Bridges, Food, and Fun
In this episode, Christopher and Ashleigh dive deep into the world of the Straits of Mackinac area. They share practical tips, can't miss experiences, and insights to help you make the most of visiting this region of northern Michigan.
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The Mighty Mackinac Bridge
At around 5 miles long, the Mackinac Bridge is an impressive sight spanning the Straits of Mackinac. Christopher shares key details and stats about the bridge. He and Ashleigh recommend walking the bridge on Labor Day during the annual bridge walk event. They also suggest visiting the parks on either side of the bridge, which offer beautiful views.
Mackinac City
Mackinac City is known for its tourist shops and proximity to Mackinac Island ferries. But Christopher and Ashleigh share their favorite spots including the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, Colonial Michilimackinac, and Headlands International Dark Sky Park.
St. Ignace
Across the bridge, St. Ignace provides a more relaxed small town vibe. Recommendations here include walking the long boardwalk, visiting Father Marquette National Memorial, and taking in the views from Castle Rock.
Food Recommendations
For food, Christopher raves about the pasties from Lehto's in St. Ignace. Other recommendations in St. Ignace include Clyde's Drive-In, Java Joe's, and Double Decker Ice Cream. In Mackinac City, they suggest stopping at the Mackinac Bakery and Cafe.
Nearby Destinations
Looking to expand your itinerary? Check out Legs Inn in Cross Village, Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Sault Ste. Marie, Tahquamenon Falls, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Tips for Visiting
Ashleigh and Christopher wrap up with practical tips like allowing extra time for ferry logistics and building in a night before/after visiting Mackinac Island.
Wine Break
During their wine break segment, Christopher and Ashleigh taste and discuss a Pinot Noir from Two Lads Winery on Michigan's Old Mission Peninsula.

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Mackinac Island Favorites:
Top Picks for Dining, Stays, and Activities
In this episode of Go See Do Explore, Ashleigh and Christopher share some of their favorite things to do, places to stay, and restaurants on Mackinac Island in Michigan.
Places to Stay
Ashleigh's pick: The Inn on Mackinac - A small boutique hotel away from downtown, offering lower rates than other island hotels. It has a front porch, bay window views, and a complimentary continental breakfast.
Christopher's pick: The Chippewa Hotel - Located right downtown, attached to the Pink Pony restaurant. More budget-friendly than luxury, but nice with convenient location.
Things to Do
Christopher's pick: Bike around the 8.2 mile perimeter of the island. See the water, bridge, fall colors, and more.
Ashleigh's pick: Rent a carriage and drive it yourself around the island. A unique activity once you're familiar with the island layout.
Favorite Restaurants
Christopher's Pick: Kingston Kitchen - Bringing Jamaican cuisine to the island, with authentic and delicious dishes.
Ashleigh's Pick: The Pink Pony at the Chippewa Hotel - Great patio overlooking the water, with local wine, fun cocktails, and good food.
Bonus: Gate House Restaurant - Appetizers were really good at this Grand Hotel restaurant located in the old gatehouse.
More Mackinac Island Tips
Visit Fort Holmes for island views from the highest point.
See Arch Rock, accessible by carriage tour or by hiking the steps.
Go during the off season for fewer crowds, lower rates, and a different island experience.
Get Ashleigh and Christopher's free Mackinac Island guide at goseeexplore.com/mackinac

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Discovering Mackinac: History, Tips, and Travel Insights
In this episode, we dive into the unique island of Mackinac, sharing its history, what makes it special, and tips for planning your visit.
Introducing Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island is located in Lake Huron between Michigan's upper and lower peninsulas. What makes it unique is its ban on cars - the only transportation is by horse, bike, or foot. The Victorian-era architecture adds to the feeling of stepping back in time.
Mackinac's History
Mackinac has a rich history as an outpost occupied by the French, British, and Americans. Fort Mackinac was the site of battles during the Revolutionary War and War of 1812. Today, the fort is a tourist attraction with historical reenactments and one of the best views on the island.
Where to Stay
The iconic Grand Hotel boasts the world's longest porch, while Mission Point Resort offers views of the sunrise side of the island. Downtown hotels like Lilac Tree Suites and Chippewa Hotel put you steps from the main street. For a quieter experience, consider the inland options like The Inn at Stonecliffe.
Things to Do
A carriage tour introduces you to the island's history and stories. Biking the 8-mile perimeter loop is a classic activity. And you can't miss the fudge shops that made Mackinac famous. We'll share more of our favorite sights and activities in an upcoming episode.
Wine Break
For this Mackinac-themed wine break, we sipped on a cherry-forward red blend from Thunder Bay Winery, located in Alpena.
Closing Thoughts
Mackinac Island offers a uniquely relaxing, screen-free getaway. With its history and charm, it's a one-of-a-kind destination for travelers. Stay tuned for our next episode where we'll dive deeper into Mackinac's hidden gems and share recommendations to help you plan your perfect island vacation.
For more information about the island, download our Free Travel Guide at www.goseedoexplore.com/mackinac!

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Exploring Mexico City: From the Historic Center to Hidden Gems
Exploring Mexico City's Historic Center
The hotel they stayed at, Hotel Fontan Reforma, is located right on Reforma Avenue in the historic center. They were able to easily walk around and explore the area during their stay.
Food Tour Highlights
One of the highlights was a private food tour with Eating With Carmen. They visited several top taco spots in the historic center that Ashleigh had researched. The tour helped them get better oriented to the historic center and sample many classic Mexican dishes.
Diego Rivera Murals and Art Tour
They took a tour to see Diego Rivera murals throughout the city. Highlights included the Diego Rivera Museum, the SEP building with its famous courtyards filled with Rivera's murals, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes.
Wine Break and Final Thoughts
During a wine break, Ashleigh and Christopher discuss a red wine they had at Antolina restaurant called Anonimo Tinto from Valle de Guadalupe. They highlight its fruity nose and nice acidity. They tease upcoming content focused more in depth on their trip and experiences in Mexico City.
Exploring Roma Norte and Condesa
After changing hotels, they spent a day exploring the neighborhoods of Roma Norte and Condesa. These neighborhoods were designed to attract foreigners. Roma Norte has a very European feel with eclectic, mixed architecture styles. Condesa features Art Deco buildings.
Cooking Class with Lucia in San Ángel
They took a private cooking class with Lucia in her home and garden in San Ángel. They learned to make classic Mexican dishes like sopes, quesadillas, and chiles en nogada. It was a highlight of feeling welcomed into someone's home.
Kayaking in Xochimilco
Ashleigh highlights their early morning kayaking tour in Xochimilco, where they paddled through the famous floating gardens and saw the sunrise. They then visited a farm, met farmers working to preserve the ecosystem, and had an amazing breakfast.
Visiting Frida Kahlo's Casa Azul
They visited Frida Kahlo's home Casa Azul in Coyoacán. Ashleigh advises getting tickets far in advance as it's one of the top destinations in Mexico City.
Anthropology Museum and Chapultepec Park
They toured the massive Anthropology Museum, which features artifacts from ancient civilizations. In Chapultepec Park, they walked around, visited Chapultepec Castle, and got tortas by the lake before taking a swan boat ride.
Final Thoughts and Upcoming Content
Christopher wraps up by mentioning their guide Laila will be on an upcoming episode. They'll be releasing more podcasts focused on their Mexico City trip and sharing their detailed trip itinerary.

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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.