Go See Do Explore

The Taste of Tradition: Exploring New Orleans CuisineWhat 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 MattersWith 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.
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Tried-and-True Classics (That Actually Live Up to the Hype)
Commander's Palace – Legendary Creole dining, jazz brunch, and yes… 25¢ martinis at lunch.
Dooky Chase – A cornerstone of both culinary and civil rights history.
Evangeline – A solid, less touristy French Quarter pick with real local charm.
Napoleon House – A muffuletta + Pimm’s Cup combo in a building with stories to tell.
Quick Bites & Local Favorites
Café du Monde – Touristy? Sure. Still worth it? Absolutely.
Central Grocery – Grab the OG muffuletta to-go and find a shady spot nearby.
Stein’s Deli – When you're craving a killer Reuben that rivals NYC’s.
A Few Offbeat Gems
Latitude 29 – A tiki bar done right, with food that surprises.
French Toast – A wallet-friendly breakfast spot tucked near the French Market.
The Maison – Live jazz + gumbo fries = a very New Orleans night out.
Wine BreakThis episode’s sip: Bel Lago’s Auxerrois from Michigan. Light, juicy, and refreshingly unpretentious — the kind of wine that invites conversation.
Planning tip: Check out New Orleans Foodies on Facebook for more restaurant ideas!

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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Why New Orleans Feels Different
Founded in 1718, New Orleans has lived many lives—French, Spanish, and American rule have all left their mark. It's a city shaped by resilience, including the profound impact of Hurricane Katrina and its recovery in the years since.
But beyond the headlines, this is a place where cultures overlap in ways that feel alive. The architecture, the music, the food—each tells its own part of the story.
Reasons to Go (That Go Beyond Bourbon Street)
A rich cultural fusion that includes French, African, Caribbean, and Spanish influences
Music that pulses through the city—from traditional jazz to funk and brass bands
Creole and Cajun food that surprises with every bite
Local traditions like second line parades and porch concerts that bring people together
A sense of place that feels historic without being frozen in time
Staying in the Right Spot
While the French Quarter is iconic, it can get pricey. For something more grounded but still walkable, consider Marigny or Bywater—neighborhoods with soul, great coffee, and colorful houses that are fun to explore on foot. We stayed at the Hotel de la Monnaie, right on the edge of the French Quarter and Marigny.
Exploring the City
Take a hop-on hop-off tour for a low-effort overview
Join a walking tour of the Garden District or French Quarter to dig deeper
Ride the St. Charles streetcar or cruise the river on a steamboat
What to See & Do
Frenchmen Street – An essential spot for live music, minus the chaos of Bourbon
St. Louis Cathedral & Jackson Square – Picturesque, yes, but still worth seeing
The National WWII Museum – Powerful and incredibly well-curated
Mardi Gras World – A behind-the-scenes look at the floats and pageantry
Swamp tours – Get outside the city and into Louisiana’s unique natural world
Plantation Tour - Step back in time and experience old Louisiana. Just be sure to look for an ethical tour that gives the slaves' perspective, such as the Whitney Plantation.
Eating & Drinking Well
Try the classics—beignets, po’ boys, seafood gumbo, and muffulettas. Don’t skip the local cocktails either; a properly made Sazerac is a taste of New Orleans in a glass. Be sure to check back next week for our recap of New Orleans dining!
Wine Break: A Red for Summer
This week’s wine pick is a chilled red from Billsboro Winery in the Finger Lakes. It’s light, juicy, and perfect for warmer weather—something to sip on a patio while remembering live brass echoing from Frenchmen Street. They also suggest trying chilled Gamay or Pinot Noir for a similar feel.

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-best-airline-2025-skytrax
Play Airlines, the Icelandic budget option many used for transatlantic deals, will stop flying to the U.S. by October. If you’ve been eyeing a budget-friendly Iceland or Europe trip, now’s the time. https://thepointsguy.com/news/play-airlines-ends-all-us-flights/
The EU has stepped in to require free carry-on bags for all flights. This move could upend the ultra low-cost model in Europe and finally bring transparency to those “too good to be true” fares. https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20250627-the-big-change-affecting-european-travel
Cruise Updates
Cannes, France is drawing a line: starting in 2026, no cruise ships with more than 1,000 passengers. The port will also cap daily visitors to 6,000 — a potential game-changer for anyone craving more authentic, less crowded shore days. https://cruiseradio.net/french-riviera-port-cracks-down-on-large-cruise-ships/
Carnival is overhauling its loyalty program in 2026. Instead of rewarding how many days you sail, they’ll focus on how much you spend. Also new: loyalty status will expire after 2 years. Expect ripple effects across the industry. https://cruiseradio.net/carnival-cruise-lines-loyalty-program-changes/
U.S. Travel News
Hurricane season is expected to be active this year, with NOAA forecasting 19 named storms. If you're planning a coastal trip between June and November, it’s worth keeping an eye on forecasts and having travel insurance. https://www.travelandleisure.com/noaa-warning-above-normal-hurricane-season-in-2025-11748873
Disney is tightening restrictions on third-party Disney Vacation Club rentals. Going forward, only friends and family can use DVC points — a major shift if you’ve relied on rentals for affordable Disney stays. https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2025/06/29/disney-vacation-club-changes-commercial-renters/84372282007/ 
Epcot’s Test Track returns July 22 with a high-tech facelift. Same track layout, new experience — ideal for anyone planning a trip to Walt Disney World later this year. https://www.positivelyosceola.com/test-track-returns-to-epcot-july-22-with-high-tech-makeover-and-all-new-musical-score/ 
New York Port Authority is offering half-off AirTrain fares during major construction at JFK Airport— a rare win for NYC travelers. https://www.frommers.com/tips/car-bus-rail/jfk-airtrain-half-off-in-nyc-summer-2025/ 
In Las Vegas, some hotels are dropping those notorious resort fees amid a tourism dip. It’s the perfect time to find real value without hidden charges. https://www.frommers.com/tips/hotel-news/-las-vegas-strip-hotel-without-resort-fees/ 
Amtrak expands! A new Mardi Gras line will connect Mobile, AL to New Orleans — a scenic and relaxed way to get to the party. https://www.wctv.tv/2025/07/02/amtrak-line-opens-between-mobile-new-orleans/?outputType=amp 
Global Travel Intel
Hertz’s new AI scanners are causing controversy by detecting and billing for “invisible” damage. If you’re renting a car, it’s wise to document everything — even what you can’t see. https://www.frommers.com/tips/car-bus-rail/hertz-is-using-ai-scanners-to-charge-rental-car-damage-that-human-eyes-miss/ 
Honduras now requires a measles vaccination or test from travelers arriving from 24 countries, including the U.S. https://www.frommers.com/tips/health-and-travel-insurance/travelers-are-now-required-to-show-proof-of-measles-vaccination-in-this-cruise-destination/?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwLSRsRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHj4BYHUvFjVl5MNaVCJ3-Vz9XnRZyhFhllWotO6E1gRN3j0Cua0vzgLkdojg_aem__Z55g4vDDMpTgRYd0XMn7Q#mcm7jwnmddododj1kt 
A second Frida Kahlo museum, Casa Roja, just opened next to Casa Azul in Mexico City. It's a must for art lovers looking to go deeper than the standard tour. https://www.frommers.com/trip-ideas/arts-and-culture/how-mexico-citys-new-frida-kahlo-museum-will-offer-a-fresh-look-at-the-artist/ 
India just debuted the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River in Kashmir. It’s an engineering marvel — and potentially a new bucket-list route for train lovers. https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/06/travel/india-world-highest-bridge-kashmir-chenab-intl-hnk 
Wine Break
Hot weather calls for chillable, refreshing wines. Some go-to picks:
Sparkling wines — both white and red
Dry rosé (nothing cloying)
Crisp whites like Vinho Verde
Unoaked whites such as Pinot Grigio
Light reds like Beaujolais or chilled Gamay Noir
Skip the bold Cabs for now. Instead, look for wines with a little bite or bitterness over sweetness — they’re much more refreshing when the temperature climbs.

ADD LINK TO FRESH OFF THE GRID SOMEWHERE
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.
Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.
Why the Finger Lakes?
This region in western New York is made up of long, narrow lakes surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and vineyards. Centered around Seneca, Cayuga, and Keuka Lakes, the area feels both peaceful and packed with possibilities—from scenic drives to small-town discoveries.
Hiking Through Waterfalls at Watkins Glen
One of the most jaw-dropping experiences was hiking the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park. It’s less than 2 miles, but every twist in the trail reveals another waterfall. The path takes you past moss-covered cliffs, stone bridges, and pools that look like something out of a fantasy film. Pro tip: start from the top and hike down for an easier walk.
They even stayed at a campground where you can hike directly into the gorge. Waking up and walking straight into a wonderland of waterfalls? Hard to beat.
Unexpected Delight: Corning Museum of Glass
This isn’t your typical museum stop. The Corning Museum of Glass combines science, history, and art in a surprisingly fun way. There are live glassblowing demos, interactive exhibits, and even a chance to make your own piece of glass. If you love design, creativity, or just doing something totally different—this is worth the detour.
Wine with a View
With over 100 wineries in the region, wine tasting here feels more laid back than in more famous wine areas—without sacrificing quality. Whether you're into classics or curious to try something new, there’s a spot for you.
Some favorites from the trip:
Atwater Vineyards – Sparkling Wines and epic lake views.
Hermann J. Wiemer – Timeless and masterful with Riesling and Lemberger.
Red Tail Ridge – Inventive winemaking with a sustainable edge.
Billsboro – Cozy vibes and intimate tastings, especially of dry Rieslings. Try the tasting with the winemaker!
Six Eighty Cellars - Innovative winemaking techniques with beautiful views. They also make beer, cider, and spirits.
Dr. Konstantin Frank – A must for history and legacy; this winery helped shape the region.
Where to Eat
Between tastings and trails, there are some great local bites:
Althea’s Finger Lakes Tavern – Solid burgers and local hangout energy.
Holy Cow Deli – Pastrami that punches above its weight in tiny Watkins Glen.
Scuteri’s Cannoli Connection – Chocolate-dipped shells and a case to be made for “best cannoli in the U.S.”
Camp Stove Pad Thai - If you are for some camp cooking that is more gourmet than just hot dogs over the fire, check this recipe out.
Final Thoughts
There’s something about the Finger Lakes that sticks with you—lush landscapes, down-to-earth wineries, and places that feel like they were waiting for you to discover them. It’s not flashy, and that’s part of the magic.
If you’ve been, we’d love to know your favorite stop—or what you’d add to the itinerary next time.

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.
Why Traverse City?
Set along the clear blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay, this northern Michigan destination offers more than just small-town charm. Expect rolling vineyards, lake breezes, scenic drives, and an easygoing pace that still keeps things interesting.
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What to Do
Get outside:
Bike the TART Trail through town and along the water
Climb the dunes and cruise the scenic Pierce Stocking Drive at Sleeping Bear Dunes
Swim or sun at one of many calm, sandy beaches along Grand Traverse Bay
Catch a sunset sail on the tall ship Manitou
Try world-class golf at Arcadia Bluffs or Grand Traverse Resort
Visit in winter? Bring your skis or snowshoes
Explore and shop:
Wander downtown Traverse City’s boutique shops and indie bookstores
Visit Cherry Republic for quirky gifts and all things cherry
Tour the Grand Traverse Commons, a historic site now home to cafés, galleries, and tunnels you can actually explore
Drink local:
Spend a day wine tasting on Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas—don’t miss 2 Lads, Mawby, or Rove
Grab a flight at North Peak or Mitten Brewing for great beer and lake views
Sample creative ciders at Taproot Cider House downtown
Where to Stay
Beachfront resorts in Acme such as Sugar Beach for lakefront sunrise views
Downtown digs like Delamar put you close to the action
Inn at Chateau Grand Traverse on Old Mission Peninsula offer quiet vineyard vibes
Campers, you’re covered at Traverse City State Park—just steps from the bay
Eat & Drink
Here are a few local favorites to keep you well-fed:
Poppycocks’s – casual bites with a creative twist downtown
Farm Club – a farm-to-table restaurant and brewery with trails and open fields
Grand Traverse Pie Company – yes, get the cherry pie
North Peak Brewing and Jolly Pumpkin – hearty fare and excellent beer
Cup of Joe and Higher Grounds– the kind of local coffee shop you’ll wish was in your hometown
Planning Tips
Summer is peak season—book early or come in spring or fall for fewer crowds and lower rates
Consider camping if you’re looking to save and stay close to nature
Don’t skip time on the water—paddleboarding, kayaking, or just floating is a must
Have a Traverse City favorite we didn’t mention? Reach out and let us know—your tips might make it into a future episode.

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 but waiting for the right deal. (https://thepointsguy.com/news/summer-of-saving/)
United and JetBlue have launched the Blue Sky Partnership, and JetBlue is also teaming up with Florida’s Brightline rail for smoother connections. (https://www.cnbc.com/amp/select/united-airlines-jetblue-blue-sky-partnership/ https://thepointsguy.com/news/jetblue-brightline-air-rail-partnership/)
Delta faced backlash for charging solo travelers more—then backpedaled. (https://www.frommers.com/tips/airfare/u-s-airlines-caught-charging-solo-passengers-more/)
Turkey is cracking down on travelers standing up before the plane stops. (https://www.frommers.com/tips/airfare/fine-for-standing-up-on-planes-too-early/)
IndiGo (India’s low-cost carrier) is expanding US routes via Delta, KLM, and Virgin Atlantic partnerships. (https://thepointsguy.com/news/indigo-airline-india-us-expansion/)
Wine BreakThis week’s sip: Guarda Rios from Portugal. Christopher and Ashleigh talk about how it unexpectedly connects to their recent Mexico City series—where they spotted the namesake bird in the canals of Xochimilco.
U.S. Travel News
US News Best Underrated Destinations in the US (https://travel.usnews.com/rankings/best-underrated-destinations-usa/)
Disney World’s Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America to close in July https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/experience/theme-parks/2025/06/03/disney-world-tom-sawyer-island-rivers-america-cars/84012720007/
International Travel News
Munich just took the top spot as the most walkable city in the world—perfect for those who love to explore on foot. (https://www.travelandleisure.com/munich-germany-most-walkable-city-in-world-11721214)
Spain is cracking down on unlicensed Airbnbs—66,000 listings removed. (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3wdd8lg581o.amp)
Nepal now requires climbers to summit a 7,000-meter peak before attempting Everest. (https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2025/04/28/travel/nepal-everest-permits-experienced-climbers-intl-hnk)
Disney announced a brand-new theme park is coming to Abu Dhabi. (https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/experience/theme-parks/2025/05/07/disney-new-theme-park/83458415007/)

Pies Descalzos with Laila Navarro Part 2How 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 MatterLaila 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 GoodFor Laila, travel is more than checking off a list. It’s a way to shift perspectives, prioritize meaningful experiences over material excess, and reconnect with what really matters—nature, kindness, and joy. Her hope is that guests leave not just with photos, but with a renewed sense of self.
Not Just a City Tour – An Invitation to See DifferentlyWant to taste your way through street markets? Wander a forest in the middle of the city? Dive into Mexican culture in Coyoacán? Laila’s tours are full of thoughtful details and unexpected stories. They're designed to give you a richer understanding of Mexico City and the people who live there.
Let Go of the Fear – Mexico City Is WaitingLaila gently challenges common fears about travel in CDMX, from tap water to street food to riding the metro. Her message: Mexico City is alive with generosity, friendliness, and wonder—if you’re willing to see it with fresh eyes.
Connect with Pies DescalzosLearn more or book a tour at piesdescalzos.funLike on Facebook: facebook.com/piesdescalzostoursFollow on Instagram: instagram.com/piesdescalzostours
This episode is for anyone craving more connection, more meaning, and more discovery in their travels.

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?
From Design to Discovery – Laila’s Journey
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 the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.
Teotihuacan: Beyond the Pyramids
Laila explains why most visitors miss the depth of Teotihuacan — and how starting at the on-site museum transforms your understanding of what you're seeing. You’ll also hear what it was like to watch hot air balloons rise with the sun over ancient ruins. It’s not just a visit. It’s a chance to feel small and in awe. For more information about this tour, check it out on Viator.
Discovering Diego Rivera Through Murals
When Christopher and Ashleigh asked for a tour focused on Diego Rivera’s murals, Laila created one from scratch — and got emotional in the process. This episode unpacks how art, politics, and memory are fused into Mexico City’s walls — and why this tour might just change how you see public art forever. For more information and to book this tour, check out Viator.
Early Morning in Xochimilco: A Side Most Tourists Miss
You’ve heard of the party boats — but Lila takes us (and others) into a different Xochimilco: quiet canals, morning mist, ancient farming techniques, and a farm-to-table breakfast after kayaking. You'll hear how indigenous wisdom still echoes here, if you're willing to listen. To learn more about this tour, visit Viator.
What Makes a Tour Transformative?
For Laila, guiding isn’t about facts — it’s about feelings. She talks about building relationships, not just delivering information. For travelers like you who crave real connection, this episode is a reminder that the best trips are built on shared humanity.
If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be deeply seen, heard, and invited into a culture — not just observe it — this is your episode.
Listen now, and get ready to rethink what a "tour" can be. Be sure to check back in next week for the second half of this interview! More information about Laila and her tours can be found at PiesDescazlos.fun.

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.
Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.
Centro HistóricoThe city’s historic core is packed with must-see sites like the Zócalo, Templo Mayor, the Cathedral, and Diego Rivera’s murals. It’s easy to explore on foot, even from neighborhoods a bit farther out like Reforma.
Anthropology MuseumThis museum is essential for understanding Mexico’s pre-Hispanic cultures. We booked a guided tour, which made a huge difference in helping us connect with what we were seeing. 
Diego Rivera’s MuralsSeeing Rivera’s art at Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Museo Mural Diego Rivera gave us a visual crash course in Mexican history and revolution. To check out the tour we took, click here.
Chapultepec ParkA massive park with museums, a zoo, and even a castle. It’s a peaceful place to escape the bustle and spend a few unhurried hours.
Frida Kahlo’s Casa AzulVisiting the Blue House in Coyoacán helped us understand Frida’s art and life in a more personal way. Make sure to get tickets in advance—it’s popular for a reason. Consider a guided tour if you want to dig deeper into Frida's life.
Sunrise Kayaking in XochimilcoOne of our most memorable experiences. Paddling through early-morning canals past floating farms and birds was peaceful and unforgettable. For more info on this tour, click here.
Trip Planning TipsPlan for at least 3–4 full days. Staying in more than one neighborhood adds variety. Big breakfasts and late dinners worked better for us than three structured meals. Give yourself time to slow down. 
We highly recommend checking out tours from Pies Descalzos!
What We’d Do DifferentlyWe’d allow more time at Templo Mayor, build in time to relax in Roma Norte, and be better prepared for early mornings, especially when it comes to food and coffee.
Wine BreakWe took a pause with a bottle of Auxerrois from Chateau Fontaine in Northern Michigan. 
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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 EnchiladasChristopher 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 CheeseAshleigh highlights the carnitas tacos from their food tour—made even better with a layer of melted white cheese. A good example of how a small touch can make something familiar feel new.
Huitlacoche and Cooking Class QuesadillasChristopher shares two dishes that featured huitlacoche, a corn fungus used in Mexican cooking: tacos from Girasoles and quesadillas from their cooking class. Both show how Mexican food often celebrates ingredients that don’t show up on most tourist menus.
Churros from El MoroAshleigh talks about the churros at El Moro, one of Mexico City’s most well-known spots. Fresh, hot, and paired with dipping chocolate—they’re a treat worth seeking out.
Wine Break at Bel LagoMidway through the episode, they pause for a wine tasting at Bel Lago, a local winery. Ashleigh shares her thoughts on Auxerrois Moreno, one of their standout wines.
More to ExploreThey close with a few other food highlights from the trip—like tacos gobernador and sopes with steak—and talk about how meals like these help shape the story of a place.