5 Ways to Support Local Economies When You Travel with Daniel Maurer

Every decision you make on a trip—where you stay, what you eat, how you get around—has an impact on the place you visit. Whether it’s an Airbnb that displaces a local resident or a tour bus that crowds neighborhood streets, the travel choices we make ripple through communities in ways we might not notice. But what if small, thoughtful shifts could transform your trips into meaningful exchanges that actually benefit the people who call these destinations home?In this episode, host Angie Orth is back with Daniel Maurer, journalist, travel writer, and author of The Future of Travel. Daniel shares his top five strategies for responsible travel. He shares practical tips that help you avoid tourist traps, find authentic experiences, and ensure your money supports local communities.You'll discover how to choose accommodations that don't harm housing markets, how to spot the red flags of “tourist” restaurants, and how to experience authentic culture when you travel. Daniel also reveals why connecting with locals is the secret to unlocking the most memorable travel experiences.What You’ll Learn:00:55 How to book accommodations with the local economy in mind 02:39 The art of finding authentic tours and activities while avoiding over-hyped tourist traps03:48 Daniel's rules for identifying locally-owned restaurants 04:55 Transportation choices that support communities without crowding out residents06:21 The one mindset shift that transforms how you travel and connect with peopleConnect with Daniel Maurer:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-maurer-2331685X: https://x.com/moscamaurerBook: https://mhpbooks.com/books/the-future-of-travelWhat's your best tip for supporting local economies while traveling? Share in the comments!Connect with AAA:Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprisesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprisesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises