The Bag Tag

What if your rideshare app became your travel agent?This week, we’re diving into one of the biggest travel industry shakeups of 2026: Uber is officially entering the hotel business. After years of taking us to airports, delivering late-night food, and replacing taxis, Uber now wants to book your hotel, reserve your dinner, deliver forgotten travel essentials, and maybe someday manage your entire vacation.At Uber’s massive GO-GET 2026 event in New York City, the company unveiled “Hotels on Uber” — a major expansion powered by a partnership with Expedia Group that brings more than 700,000 hotel listings directly into the Uber app.So what does this actually mean for travelers?In this episode, we explore:Why Uber is suddenly obsessed with the travel industryHow booking hotels inside the Uber app actually worksThe growing power of Uber One and its travel discountsWhether travelers will trade loyalty points for convenience and savingsThe risks of third-party hotel bookingsUber’s new AI-powered “Travel Mode”And why Uber may be trying to become the operating system for movement itselfWe also unpack the bigger question behind all of this:Is Uber making travel dramatically simpler… or creating a future where one app controls your entire trip?Because this isn’t just about hotels anymore.It’s about attention, ecosystems, and the race to own the modern travel experience.Buckle up — your rideshare app just became a travel company. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Few highways in America carry the same mythology as the “Mother Road.” Stretching more than 2,400 miles from Chicago to California, U.S. Route 66 became more than pavement and painted lines…it became a symbol of freedom, reinvention, road trips, diners, neon signs, and the ever-present promise that adventure might be waiting just around the next curve. And while every state along Route 66 has its own personality, Oklahoma may be one of the most soulful stretches of them all. From vintage motels and weathered trading posts to lively downtown districts and roadside attractions that feel frozen in time, Oklahoma captures the spirit of Route 66 in a way that feels both nostalgic and alive.One city helping lead that preservation effort is Tulsa, a place where the history of Route 66 isn’t tucked away in a museum somewhere, but woven directly into the culture of the city itself. During our interview, we sat down with Rhys Martin, President of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, 2026 Tulsan of the Year, and author of The Lost Restaurants of Tulsa. From the moment the conversation began, it was clear that Route 66 is much more than a highway… it’s a living storybook of communities, memories, and American identity. Rhys spoke passionately about Tulsa’s deep connection to the road, the importance of preserving historic landmarks, and how the people who live along Route 66 are just as important as the attractions themselves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It is with great sadness that we are here to discuss the latest in travel news: the end of Spirit Airlines’ operations. Don’t get it twisted, Spirit was a pioneer in their own right–they didn’t just sell cheap tickets, they reinvented what “cheap” meant and disrupted the business model that had become standard in the aviation industry.Gone but never forgotten, we discuss what this means for the travel industry as a whole and how you, the Taggies & travelers, will be impacted by Spirit’s demise. But wait, is there actually a chance that Spirit isn’t gone for good…? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🤳 The Travel Discourse Trio (01:22)There’s a lot of fun travel tidbits that have been making their rounds online. Today we’re discussing the latest travel privacy innovation in My Cocoon, a heartwarming statue built in Kazakhstan, and JetBlue’s top-secret booking hack.👶 How Many Miles Should the Baby Get? (10:19)For this week’s seat pocket, we’re debating if a baby born mid-flight should be eligible for the full flight’s miles or just the miles they were there for. Seriously, this really happened.✈️ How Would a Government-Owned Spirit Airlines Work? (14:48)This episode is all about the hottest topic in travel news: the U.S. government’s interest in buying Spirit Airlines outright. Not a subsidization, not a bailout, a full-on ownership. How did we get here, what would this mean for the airline industry as a whole, and has this happened before? We unpack it all for you!🚌 Transportation Costs of The World Cup (40:43)If you’re planning to attend a World Cup match at MetLife Stadium, in addition to flights and lodging, you’ll need to factor in public transportation to your overall budget! New Jersey has made it clear that if FIFA won’t help cover the transportation costs their cities will be taking on, then they’re pushing that burden onto the fans. And that burden is pricey!🚢 Tiny Voyage: What in our everyday life brought us the same joy as travel this week (47:57) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🐱 Pilots Meowing + Fetty Wap References = Weird Air (01:25)It was a weird week in the air to say the least… Pilots were meowing, barking, and making Fetty Wap references to the ATCs. We run through all the latest news, if it qualifies as news, from the air in the past week.✈️ How Do You Count Flights? (12:58)Every trip is a flight but not every flight is a trip…or is it? We debate how you count the total number of flights you’ve been on and the difference between flights vs trips. According to Chantel, this is not a matter of opinion but a matter of facts. Do you agree?🛎️ The Death (and Rebirth) of the Hotel Lobby (21:50)What was once considered a path on the way to or from your room has since become a destination in and of itself. We dive into the history of the hotel lobby, how the boom of hotel chain expansion turned lobbies blah, and what they did to successfully reinstate themselves as a designated “third place” in today’s society.🛏️ We See Your SkyCouch and Raise You a SkyNest (43:49)Air New Zealand has done it again–they’re reinventing sleep in the sky! Long-time Taggies will remember when we covered their innovative SkyCouch, which has since been copied by United’s Relax Row, and now they’re bringing us bigger and better sleep options with their latest SkyNest. Set to debut later this year, SkyNest could completely change the way passengers rest while seated in economy.🚢 Tiny Voyage of the Week (53:46) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏅2028 Summer Olympics (01:21)It’s official, The Bag Tag will be the unofficial travel podcast of the LA 28 Summer Olympics. We were lucky enough to snag tickets in one of the early ticket drops and already counting down the days to the games. Plus we discuss the misdesign of airplane seat maps🧛Team Jacob or Team Edward (08:43)The debate that will never die, are you Team Edward or Team Jacob. The podcast is split as we discuss if this was all just a marketing stunt by the movie studios for Twilight 🌲Visiting Forks, Washington (13:21)While, yes, the main point of the trip is to relive Chantel’s High School days as an obsessed teen reading the Twilight book, we dive into all things Forks besides just Twilight. Although, most of it is Twilight as we’re headed off to visit🐠 Sydney’s New Fish Market (34:27)Sydney, Australia is opened the largest fish market in the southern hemisphere and it’s truly not getting close to enough of the attention that it deserves. Not only is it reshaping Black Waddle Bay’s fish scene, but the new water front walkway will give even more of a reason for locals and tourists to make it a must visit.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🫨 Seating Chart Icons, Baggage Fees, and Disney Animatronics…Oh my! (01:30)There’s a lot going on in the world of travel, so we had to start today’s episode with some of the lighter, but still important, things we’ve been seeing in the news lately.🌕 What Would the Moon’s Bag Tag Code Be? (11:00)For today’s seat pocket, we debate what we think the “spaceport” bag tag code (hypothetical, of course) on the moon should be!🚀 Airport Chaos (13:40) & Artemis II Space Tourism (23:10)We’re discussing the history behind the airport chaos, because even though this seems like a recent issue, it actually goes back decades! Then we take off with everything you need to know about Artemis II!🧔🏽‍♂️ What in the World is Going on With Beards? (34:00)Believe it or not, there’s a reason why most airplane pilots you have will be clean shaven. We dive into the reasons behind this and question if it’s really just because of safety…🚢 This Week’s Tiny Voyages (40:23) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

👣 King Charles III, the path not the person + 100th Episode!!! (01:23) There’s a new King Charles III in town but this one is a path, not a person! That’s right, there’s a newly opened walking path that takes you around the entire country of England. And, today is our 100th episode of The Bag Tag!🚴 Would You Ever Walk or Bike Across the Country? (09:09)Today’s seat pocket is inspired by, you guessed it, the King Charles III pathway. We debate if we would ever walk or bike across the entire United States, or maybe even drive.🗺️ Why Do Humans Feel the Urge to Explore? (15:28)Exploring isn’t just a hobby or an aspiration, there’s so much more to it than that! Exploring is in our blood, seriously. It’s genetic. And today we talk all about how humans evolved specifically to explore. Do you have the travel gene?😴 United’s New Way to Travel in Relaxation (30:16)There’s a new seat style, not the first of its kind but the first of its kind on a U.S. carrier! United Airlines is introducing their new Relax Row, which may change the way we travel for long-haul flights.🛳️ Bringing Back the Tiny Voyage (42:06)We close the show sharing our tiny voyages for the week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🚗 TSA Wait Times, Rain Falls in Hawaii, and Buying vs Renting When TravelingWhy rent a car on vacation when you can…buy one? That’s right, there’s people out there who may have finally cracked the code when it comes to rental cars on vacation. Plus, we chat about what’s happening with TSA wait times and the awful storms hitting the Hawaiian Islands right now.🌺 What’s Your Favorite Flower?We’ve talked about our favorite destinations, favorite food and drinks from trips, now it’s time we finally tell you all which flowers are our favorite.🌷 How Flower Tourism Became a Global Travel PhenomenonPeople travel for all sorts of reasons: visiting friends & family, national monuments, The Seven Wonders, food, hiking, concerts, but today we’re talking about people traveling just for flowers! That’s right Flower Tourism is real and, some might even say, it’s blooming. If you plan it just right, that is. We unpack it all, where and when flower tourism started and why it matters so much to travelers across the world.☠️ Death Valley Isn’t Dead!Despite what the name leads you to believe, there is in fact life in Death Valley. And that life is doing something extraordinary that hasn’t happened in 10 years! Don’t worry, we’ve got everything you need to know about this once-in-a-lifetime event. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🔥 Heated Rivalry, Chicago River, and Headphone Enforcement (01:27)It’s St. Patrick’s Day and we didn’t skimp out on the travel news this week! There’s lots going on in the world, from new set-jetting opportunities for all you HR loons, the juicy deets on turning Chicago’s river green, and United’s latest rules on headphones.👙 What’s Your Favorite Spring Break Destination? (09:40)For this week’s seat pocket, we’re discussing our favorite spring break trip we’ve ever gone on…if we’ve gone on a spring break trip! Let us know what your favorite spring break spot has been, or if you have any exciting destinations coming up.✈️ How Did Spring Break Become a Travel Tradition? (18:02)Before Spring Break became an iconic travel tradition for college students and, let’s be real, everyone else, it started off as just…a break! Find out how this pre-summer respite evolved into one of the most desired travel weeks in modern times!🌧️ Weather Apps Might Get Sued (41:57)There’s drama with the weather apps and local attractions as they claim misleading icons and summaries for daily weather are encouraging people to reschedule their plans or cancel altogether, even if the weather is mostly nice! We get to the bottom of the latest tea on weather, or should we say “forecast”? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🕑 Jet Lag & What Happens at Airport Chili’s (01:26)Daylight Savings weekend went by a little too fast, because we lost an hour! Springing forward always gives us the same feeling as jet lag, at least for a little while. Plus, there’s an airport Chili’s that saw probably the most romantic gesture in its entire existence: a proposal! That’s right, there’s a happy couple out there whose lives are forever changed after visiting that Chili’s.⭐ Would You Rather Be a TV or Movie Star? (10:52)If we were famous actors, would we rather become a star from a TV show or a movie? While this seems like a pretty straightforward question, there was actually a lot to consider with this.🎥 Is Los Angeles Actually a Good Tourist City? (16:11)There’s a saying that “everyone loves LA until they visit,” but LA is the second-most visited city in the U.S... So are millions of people lying or is it being evaluated wrong? We’re debating if LA is actually a good city for tourists and why there may be some ill-informed prejudices against it.🏛️ Coming Soon: The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art (36:10)He’s taken us to archaeological sites, artifact hunting across the globe, and even to outer space. Now, he’s taking us behind the curtain and into the storytelling itself. George Lucas, one of the greatest storytellers of our generation has a new museum of narrative art that isn’t just highlighting his work but how it’s created, and we have all the clues you need to go on this adventure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏴󠁡󠁦󠁷󠁡󠁲󠁿 Which Countries Change Their Flags When at War? (01:25)If you didn’t know, now you do! There are countries out there that change their flag to indicate when they’re at war. Do you know how many, or which ones?🌀 Cyclone vs Hurricane vs Typhoon (05:20)There are many natural disasters, but of these three heavy hitters, which one sounds the coolest? Destruction aside, of course. We debate whether a cyclone, hurricane, or typhoon sounds the coolest when you hear it or see it in an action movie.🤠 Galveston, Texas (08:45)As Wyatt heads to Galveston, TX, we’re doing a full rundown on everything you need to know about this under-the-radar city. From its history and how Houston stole its spotlight, to fun facts and things to do, we chat about it all!🦖 What In the World Is Going On With Pokemon? (30:37)Did you know that Pokemon fossils exist? For Pokemon enthusiasts and paleontologists alike, this upcoming attraction is a big deal! Find out all you need to know about this pop-up attraction and where its only North American location is going to be! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🥇 Which Athlete [Draft] Is Going Home With Gold? (01:35)We’re sad to say that the 2026 Winter Olympics are coming to a close. Before we begin mourning the post-Olympic era, we’re giving you an update on which team won this year’s Athlete Draft. Spoiler: the scores weren’t even close!🔥 Who Do We Think Will Win Survivor 50? (08:38)Survivor is the longest running reality TV series, and its 50th season is coming up! In honor of the premier this week, we’re taking a guess at who we think might walk away a winner at the end of the run.🇫🇯 Survivor’s Impact on Fiji’s Tourism Industry (25:36)10 years ago, Survivor went away with globetrotting for each installment and has committed to Fiji as its one and only filming location through (at least) the end of the decade. Similar to what we discuss in our Set-Jetting episode, this show has had some serious and positive impacts to the tourism industry of its destination. ✈️ Pimp My Air Force One (45:30)We’ve talked about airplane livery before, but no wrap is as iconic as Air Force One…at least until it gets a new look. That’s right–the classic baby blue stripe is set to go away in exchange for something a little more…well you’ll have to listen to find out! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🫖 Olympic Tea is Best Served Hot (01:34)It’s week 2 of the 2026 Winter Olympics and there’s no shortage of stories, and tea, to discuss! From first-to-continent medals, to cheating, scams, injuries, disqualifications, plushies, and pasta noodles, if you can name it, it probably happened at the Olympic games! Plus, we give you an update on our athlete draft point status and who’s currently in the lead.🏆 Would You Stay, Or Would You Go? (31:51)This week’s seat pocket discussion is on-theme as we debate, if we were athletes who had concluded competing at the Olympic games, would we stay and enjoy the festivities or head home?🤼 Milan vs Cortina (34:52)You’re already familiar with Milan vs Cortina in terms of their role in this year’s Olympics, but what about when the game flame isn’t around? We put the two cities head-to-head and look at them as destinations to travel, their vibes, their cost, and the best time to go.🇦🇹 NDA = Non-Disclosure [Austria] (53:52)Odds are you’ve heard of an NDA, maybe you’ve even signed one for your job. But have you ever signed one when entering a new country? That’s right, there’s a new NDA in town and it doesn’t stand for “non-disclosure agreement,” it’s “non-disclosure Austria.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olympic Parade & Ski-Mo (01:54)As if we need more motivation to travel, the Olympic parade really gets the travel bug moving…yes, from just the athletes walking into the Opening Ceromonies. Like we said, it doesn’t take us much. Ohhhh and, have you heard of Ski-Mo (aka Ski Mountaineering?!) it’s the newest olympic sport and it sounds electric! Favorite Winter Olympic Sport (11:32)We love the olympics and we love to make our life difficult which is why we are debating what our favorite winter olympic sport is. There’s actually quite a few sneaky choices. How Italy Won the Bid to Host the 2026 Olympic (14:35)By now we all know Italy is hosting the olympics, or at least we hope you Taggies sitting on the couch watching the games realize they’re taking place in Italy. The question is - how did Italy win the bid to host? It was a close battle between Sweden and Italy but there were a few key elements that tipped in Italy’s favorOlympic Mascots Milo & Tina (44:37)While we’re still not ready to say goodbye to Phryges, the mascot from the 2024 Olympics, we are ready to fully embrace the TWO new mascots - Milo & Tina. We give the full breakdown on the meaning of the mascots and why the ermine was chosen. Winter Olympic Athlete Draft (57:14)The athletes can’t be the only ones competing over the next two weeks so we decided to get in on the fun! After the success of our summer olympics draft, we’re running it back with winter. We each pick 4 athletes across the board to compete Italy’s New Outdoor Dining Rule (71:57)While all the attention is on the Olympics, Florence passed a new rule that will change the way you travel! If you have any plans to visit the city, your restaurant experience will look quite different as Florence has banned outdoor seating in 70 streets and greatly reduced in other parts of the city  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏠 We’re Baaaaaack (01:33)It’s only been a week for you, but it’s been a month for us! Does that make us time travelers? While we were away, the news didn’t stop. From Groundhog’s Day and Sundance Film Festival to the Superbowl and Olympics, we catch up on all things travel happening this week.💃 What’s Our Next South American Country? (21:50)Brazil was the first time either of us visited South America, marking our 6th of 7 total continents, and we’re not stopping there! In true Bag Tag fashion, we’re already planning our next trip back to this part of the world. The real question is: where will we go?🇧🇷 Unpacking Brazil (26:22)From Rio to Iguazu to Sao Luis to the Dunes, we truly made the most of our time in Brazil! And today we’re unpacking it all including trip food and drinks, beaches, Carnival, our favorite things, and souvos. ✈️ Runway Report: GIG (89:23)Huge missed opportunity to use the bag tag code RIO! We hit a lot of airports on this trip but only one that really mattered. Consider this our official runway report for the Rio de Janeiro International Airport, aka Galeão International Airport, and find out how many clouds we find it worth of.📰 What In the World Is Going On? (94:09)A better question might be: what isn’t going on? An acquisition, new policies, a reopened road, something with Vegas and good, old fashioned internet beef. We take time to run through a handful of juicy travel stories that occurred while we were gone! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🍅 Are Bloody Mary’s Better 30,000 Feet Up (01:33)A couple of weeks ago we were telling y’all that people have claimed it is a scientific fact that bloody mary’s are better when cruising off on an adventure. Chantel is a supporter of bloody marys and Wyatt is not so we figured we’d be great tasters of this theory. Well the results are in and we’re ready to discuss😵‍💫 Worst Travel Habits (06:48)Hannah Montana truly said it best “Nobody’s perfect” and unfortunately when it comes to travel, we all have bad travel habits. Yes, even us expert travelers have a thing or two we’d like to change orrrrrr maybe we don’t care but those we travel with do! ✈️ The Travel Effect (12:56)When we talk about travel, we usually talk about escape. A break. A reset. A getaway. But here’s the thing we don’t talk about enough: Travel is not neutral. Every plane ticket, hotel stay, museum visit, coffee order, and Instagram post sets off a chain reaction — one that reaches local economies, national politics, and the daily lives of people who live there year-round. Today, we’re unpacking The Travel Effect — how tourism quietly reshapes the world, whether we notice it or not.🏜️ Unpacking Texas (42:15)We kicked off 2026 in style at a wedding in Texas but we have been so busy we haven’t had a chance yet to unpack so what better time to do so than now! We discussed Austin and San Antonio to see how they compare and what surprised us most before giving our runway report on the Austin Airport! 🚠 Gondolas in Paris (58:07)Paris is known for so much - food, history, style, architecture, art - but not so much for it’s transportation. Well, in an effort to continue providing fast and affordable options to locals and visitors to get around the city of love, Paris is turning to the skys with Gondolas giving people a new perspective on the city!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Window in Airplane Bathroom (01:37)As if by some miracle, we spoke of an airplane bathroom with a window into existence! On our flight to Austin, Texas we were blessed with the airplane bathroom window and let us tell you it lived up to the hype and more! It was pure luxury. Every airplane needs one!Iguazu Falls or Parque Nacional dos Lencois Maranhenses (05:55)Our Brazil adventure is not silo’d to just Rio! We venture off to Iguazu Falls and Parque Nacional dos Lencois Maranhenses. The question is…which are we most excited for! That is our debate for this week’’s seat pockedIguazu Falls - Fun Facts (11:47)If you’ve never heard of Iguazú Falls before, that’s okay. You’re not alone. It doesn’t always get the same instant name recognition as Niagara or Victoria Falls—but once you understand it, Iguazú tends to ruin all other waterfalls for you.Parque Nacional dos Lencois Maranhenses - What to Know (23:50)Imagine a sea of brilliant white sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see — like a desert… but with something no desert has: freshwater lagoons that fill with rainwater between the dunes. History and Fun Facts about Brazil (34:07)Brazil didn’t just happen. It collided into existence.Long before Europeans showed up, Brazil was home to millions of Indigenous people, spread across hundreds of cultures and languages. Groups like the Tupi, Guaraní, and Yanomami lived off the land, navigated rivers like highways, and built societies deeply connected to nature. The Amazon wasn’t “discovered” — it was already known, mapped, and lived in.What in the World is Beto Carrero World? (45:17)Beto Carrero World—a 14-million-square-meter theme park that just surpassed multiple Disney parks in global rankings and is now teasing a roller coaster set to break six world records.Yeah. Six. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🤑 Get Bumped, Get Money (01:34)There’s a lot of side hustles out there, but one of the most unique has to be purposely booking oversold flights and getting money to get bumped. While this isn’t a new technique, it’s certainly not one that most people are willing to try. 🌃 Daytime vs Nighttime (07:47)Rio is known for its beautiful beaches, rainforests, and attractions but they also have a nightlife that is simply unmatched. While we’re very much of the mindset that we have to do it all when we’re on a trip, we discuss if we’d prefer daytime or nighttime activities if we could only choose one.🇧🇷 Getting Real About Rio (12:20)As we pack for our upcoming trip to Rio de Janeiro, we’re giving you everything you need to know! From history and fun facts, to a breakdown of the beach culture, top things to do, and their national food and drinks, we really get into it all.🚡 Trains, Planes, and Gondolas? (48:05)There’s a new transportation method on the rise (literally) and it’s not what you might think… Gondolas are a quick, reliable, and affordable way for major cities to create a new public transportation route that avoids traffic. We discuss which unexpected city is in the midst of their first gondola, and whether or not these will become all the craze. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🔥Travel Sign (01:31)Earth, Wind, Fire, Water…yes, all very important elements to Avatar (the blue people and the anime show) but your sign may very well impact the way you prefer to travel! Isn’t all of that star sign and ish just a bunch of fantasy? No! It’s real and it’s fun especially when it comes to their impact on travel! ✨ New Years Resolutions (08:50)Cliche, classic, lame, exciting whatever you think about New Years Resolutions, on this adventure we embrace it! Because with all travel, you gotta go in with an open mind. Now you’re probably expecting us to say travel more or visit all 7 continents but we have jobs and things sadly cost money so we share a bit about our more lowkey resolutions but of course we had a travel twist📍 2026 Top Travel Destinations (15:10)Paris is out and Philadelphia is IN! You think that sounds crazy? Well we explain why it makes all the sense in the world. This year we have 5 destinations that will be all over the feeds and timelines. Some of these, you’ll nod your head and say “yup” and others, like Philly, will have you questioning everything you knew. 🧳 2026 Travel Predictions (26:39)We nailed the 2025 Travel Predictions (some may say we are experts) so we’re back with our 2026 travel predictions! Is this the year RVs make a comeback? Maybe everyone is heading off to Maine, or perhaps the sail is the vessel of the year. Well we both have picks we are almost guaranteed to be all the rage! 🌎 2026 Travel Headlines (33:20)If you thought 2025 was packed full of travel stories and news, well yeah it was, but 2026 is already shaping up to be one epic sequel! From new amusement parks, to changes at the National Parks to a country reshaping your desire to travel, the year ahead (that we know of) will be one fun adventure Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🛏️ Hotel Booking TrickWhen it comes to finding the best place to stay, there’s a new technique that can give you the 5-star experience without the 5-star price tag!! It comes down to accepting a little less space. The idea is you book the worst room at the nicest hotel to enjoy everything it has to offer versus a suite or upgraded room at a cheaper hotel🧀 The Rule for Queso Queso comes in all shapes and sizes or perhaps not. There’s a hot debate going on whether queso should be simply cheese with no additives while others claim the cheese is a good foundation but the flavor lives with the additions. 🤖 Everything You Need to Know about AustinAustin truly is different than anywhere else in Texas, it has a full on bat display, 100 foot light posts, a nude beach and a ton of tech! Keep Austin Weird is a fitting phrase, one the city adopted thanks to local businesses. A place that start as just a pile of dust, took over as capitol and has become the spot for bachelorettes! We unpack everything you need to know about Austin! 🎨 Las Vegas Art MuseumLas Vegas has been struggling over the last year and continues to look for ways to reinvent itself! What was once just a desert full of casinos, has added in a F1 race, major US sports teams, immersive experience district, and now a formal fine art museum. Crazy to think a city full of unique and special experiences with all of their shows and Nevada, home to burning man, never had an art museum until now!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🚽Windows in Airplane Bathrooms (01:45)Is it weird to have windows in an airplane bathroom? No, but think about it. If you’re 30,000 feet in the air, who even will be able to peak in and see what you’re doing? It may actually be nice to get some natural light in there. Although if you need to use the bathroom at the gate…🧳 The Best Travel Story of the Year (05:42)There’s a lot of bold travel takes, weird tips and hacks, and trends that sometimes just don’t really make sense. We discuss some of our favorites like Rednote, Bloody Mary’s, McAtlas, and Oliver & Phoenix🌎 Recapping the Biggest 2025 Travel Trends and Topics (21:42)It’s hard to unpack all of the travel happenings in the year - Spirit emerging from bankruptcy, Epic Universe, Tariff Travels, Flag Jacking, Southwest removing free checked bags….we can’t list em all!!! We’ll we could but that would ruin some of the fun with listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎅🏽 The Land of Christmas…Literally (01:33)We start the show chatting holiday movies! While we could really go on forever about holiday movies, we really just wanted to tell you about where they’re filmed. Because, turns out, they’re almost all filmed in the same location.📍 The North Pole’s Bag Tag Code (07:35)Today’s seat pocket is about a bag tag. Not just any bag tag, but the bag tag code we would pick for the North Pole, if the North Pole had an airport. Let us know which one’s your favorite in the poll!🎄 Europe’s Christmas Market Arms Race (11:18)This ain’t a scene, it’s a Christmas Market Arms Race! More specifically, the arms race to become the Capital of Christmas from Europe’s traditional Christmas markets. We dive into the history, the rise, and the tourism of it all.🛂 U.S. Border News For International Travelers (37:31)The United States’ Custom & Border Protections has an interesting update for international visitors. While this new policy is not yet approved, it may require out-of-country tourists to disclose additional information, including your social media history from the past 5 years. If you’d like to leave a comment on this pending policy, you have until February 9, 2025. Comments must reference OMB Control Number 1651-0111 and be sent to: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

💸 Budget Airline Meets Budget…Restaurant? (01:35)It’s all fun and games until you get surprise charges tacked onto your final bill. The Ryan Air CEO got a taste of his own company’s medicine when he went out to a local restaurant for dinner, which ended up costing him more than expected. It was actually all fun and games, though! 🗺️ One Country From Each Continent T (07:38)If we could only visit one country from each continent for our final bucket list, which destinations would make the cut? There’s a lot of amazing countries out there, and many that we’ve never been to! But only 6 (not including Antarctica) can be chosen (each).🤝 What Are Airline Alliances? And, Why Do They Matter? (22:37)Even if you don’t know what they are, chances are that you’ve benefitted from an airline alliance! In this episode, we run through everything you need to know, including what they are, how they got started, and why they matter for travelers and airlines alike. 🎰 The Latest News on New York Casinos (53:14)New York is known for many things, but casinos is not one of them! That might change after 3 brand-new, downstate casino proposals were all approved. Coming soon (ish) to Queens and the Bronx, find out what these casinos entail and how they’re likely going to impact travel to the city. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🛍️ Travel Tuesday (01:36)HAPPY TRAVEL TUESDAY TO ALL WHO CELEBRATE!!! Today wraps up the holiday season of deals - We discuss what our strategy is when it comes to finding our travel deals for the year and why it’s important to plan far out and give a safety net! Oh and how do you pronounce Marriott? We’ve all been pronouncing Marriott wrong our whole life🛋️ Are You a Fan of Airport Lounges? (07:34)Everyone has an opinion on Airport lounges. Sure you get “Free” food and a place away from the chaos…wait….do you get a place away from all the chaos when they’re so overcrowded and require waitlists? We debate if we’re in or out on Airport Lounges🛫 The History and Rise of Airport Lounges (12:19)At some point, there was the first airport lounge - you can thank the CEO of American Airlines for their arrival. We unpack why airport lounges came to be, when they took off, why they have taken over airports, and we look at what the future holds! 🌺 Southwest Opens First Airport Lounge (35:02)Speaking of the future of airport lounges, Southwest is set to be unveiling their first ever airport lounge for Southwest Loyalty members at the Honolulu Airport! This is one of many changes ahead for Southwest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🚗 2025 Thanksgiving Travel (01:38)We’re set to break the record for the busiest travel weekend of all time! Yes, we have set that 3 times a year since this pod has been around but we swear, we’re not lying!!! We dive into why Thanksgiving travel is so busy and why we keep reaching new heights! 🧐 Dress Code of the Golden Age of Travel (07:12)There’s a hot debate going around over what the dress code for air travel should be thanks to Sean Duffy’s “"The Golden Age of Travel Starts With You" efforts. Should you be allowed to wear pajamas when flying or should we bring back the classic, upscale look of a suit and tie? 🦃 International Thanksgiving Travel (18:16)Thanksgiving isn’t really celebrated outside of the US…well traditionally it’s not but some places are starting to offer dinners away from home as travelers look to celebrate the holiday out of the country! We take a deep dive into the stats and logic of why traveling international over the long holiday weekend makes a ton of sense🍗 Why Thanksgiving Travel is so Stressful (27:56)As avid fans of travel and Thanksgiving, even we must admit Thanksgiving Travel is a different form of stress but why is that? We unpack the elements that make the holiday week so hectic, and what sets Thanksgiving apart from other holiday travel. Don’t worry, we provide some tips and tricks to keep things a little less stressful when you’re on the move👵🏻 Boomer vs Gen Z Travel Habits (44:16)Oh, and we give you a little game to play at the Thanksgiving table so you don’t have to speak about politics with your family - Boomer vs Gen Z travel habits! 🏈 NFL x Super Sonic FlightHere’s a crossover you probably weren’t expecting - the NFL and Boom Super Sonic! Yes, the NFL has been keeping a close eye on the development of Overture. It’s no secret the NFL is looking for world domination as they expand across Europe, Australia, and South America but logistics continue to be a problem. Super Sonic jets may provide a major solution to the biggest issue the league faces.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What in the World is going on in Boston? They have finally gained star status! Yes, one of the oldest cities in the nation has finally received its first Michelin Star but how could that be? We unpack why it took Boston so long to get a Michelin Star Restaurant, what other cities and states have yet to get recognition and unpack how the star can boost tourism for the cities packed full of top notch cuisine!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

📺 Travel Shows, Movies, Books & Pods (01:24)Unfortunately, a harsh reality all travelers come to realize is we can’t ALWAYS be on an adventure…tragic, I know. So when we’re stuck at home resting, relaxing, recouping for the next big trip, we can turn to entertainment to get our travel fix. Wyatt has just begun the journey of Anthony Bourdain Parts Unknown and discuss what other shows, movies, pods, and books to help you enjoy an adventure from the couch! 📷 How do you Document Travel? (13:18)It may seem obvious but really take a second to think - how do you document your vacations - is it through photos, videos, social media, journaling or podcasting? Are our photo albums too messy and unorganized to really appreciate the pictures we take or is there a better method? 📖 Heidi Brown - The Map I Draw (22:31)Heidi sits down to explore her transformative journey from legal textbooks to crafting a vulnerable, soul-stirring travel memoir rooted in her life-changing connection to Rome. Heidi opens up about how travel became one of her core well-being pillars, shares practical solo-travel wisdom, and reflects on the healing, growth, and unexpected friendships she found along the way—including through her love of U2. A truly inspiring conversation about finding yourself through movement, embracing curiosity, and letting the world shape you in the best possible ways.🖋️ Travel Journaling (56:19)Inspired by Heidi’s technique of beginning every morning while traveling with 3 pages of journaling, Wyatt and Chantel debate how they will begin their travel journaling journey - one shared journal or venture off on their own  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

❌ Delayed and Canceled with the Government Shutdown (01:27)Believe it or not, closed air space does in fact have an impact on our daily travel. With the first weekend of 4% airspace closed, what does that look like and what it is on the horizon with 6%, 8%, 10%, and potentially more look like as we get closer to the busiest travel weekend of the year! 🚂 The Best Train Movie (13:15)Are we debating about best movie to watch on the train or best movie about trains and how much train needs to be shown in the movie? We list off some of the most obvious train answers and debate what really is the best train movie. Lowkey any answer is right as long as you don’t say the polar express🚞 The Orient Express (21:48)The most famous train in history is one that many know by name but not by its story. Outside of the Agatha Christie novel and movies, what do you really know about the Orient Express? We unpack the history of the Orient Express, uncover why it became famous, what happened to it and take a look at the revival headed our way in 2027 🧂 Unpacking Utah (46:36)Chantel is back from her trip to Salt Lake City and Ogden, Utah and she’s unpacking her experience. She gives us the run down on dirty sodas, the bland food, and how beautiful the valley truly is. Oh, and of course, we have a new Runway Report with SLC. ⛳ What is the GCC (59:24)The long-awaited GCC Unified Visa will be launched in 2026 - we take a look at what that means for travelers and what that means for the countries in the GCC - Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates. Oh, and we talk Mr. Beast, unfortunately for his new amusement park, Beast Land, he wont get the benefits of the GCC visa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

📚 Dr Seuss is Back and GEM has the artiFacts (01:40)That’s right THE Dr. Seuss is dropping a new book, Sing the 50 United States, which is different than Fifty Nifty which Wyatt sings…or attempts to sing to the taggies against Chantel’s desires. Plus, the Grand Egyptian Museum is finally open after 2 decades of work. 🥤 Dirty Soda - What is the Best Kind of Pop (07:43)Spoiler Alert - we’ve never tried dirty soda. Sadly we couldn’t debate the hot topic in Utah we swig it up with what our favorite kind of pop is and discuss if favorite and best are technically the same thing for pop?! 🧂 Salt Lake City - Everything You Need to Know (14:56)Utah or U-Nah, Wyatt challenges Chantel and the Taggies to a game to uncover some interesting tid bits about Salt Lake City before Chantel dives into the history, fun facts, and top things to do in Salt Lake City. We even Sprinkle in some treats about Ogden, Utah👾 Retro Escape - The Future yet Past for Las Vegas (52:30)Las Vegas is dying, at least that’s what all the experts keep telling everyone but it’s not going down without a fight! Retro Escape a new immersive theme park that will take travelers back in time through the decades of the 50s to the 90s to relive the glory days or experience time they never got to see!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🍅 The Drink that Tastes the Best at 30,000 Feet (01:38)Not all drinks are equal when at cruising altitude. No, this isn’t a bold claim by yours truly, it is a scientific fact!!! Thanks to the low moisture, low pressure, and the loud noise of flying….yes, noise plays a factor in taste, tomato juice and bloody mary’s are the best tasting drinks. Personal opinion, some of us respectfully disagree📖 Travel to an Author’s Home or a Book Setting? (13:27)There’s so many elements to the world of literary travel but when it comes to building a trip and designing and itinerary, what is more important – visiting the place where the book was written or the setting/inspiration? 📚 Literary Travel - the Rise of Book Trips (19:01)Reading provides an escape and so does Traveling. It was only a matter of time before the two hobbies merged. Literary Travel brings you to places that helped create some of your favorite stories but how did travel stem from reading. The three driving forces - personalization, the imaginative immersion, and social media amplification 💎 Magnifica Air - Changing how we Travel (55:28)It’s not often we get a new airlines these days as many brands are fighting to stay afloat. It’s even more rare to have an airline change the industry but that’s what Magnifica Air is trying to do. It’s opening a new sector of air travel between commercial and private to give people a luxurious experience that is more accessible!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🚌 Landlines - Airplanes for the Ground (01:31)Airplanes for the ground? Aren’t those just cars? Nooooo, that’s crazy! Landlines are buses. More specifically, Landlines are a service offered by American Airlines that opporates like an airplane where you go to the airport, fumble through TSA, stroll down your gate and BAM you board a bus that drives on the tarmac! No, we’re not crazy, just listen to the episode! 👻 Haunted Hotel - an amenity or a deterrent? (09:39)We’re heard the ghost stories of haunted destinations such as a spooky hotel, but when you’re booking a place to stay and see that it’s marked with paranormal activity….are you more eager to book a room or quickly closing the tab and searching for a new place? 🎃 Halloween Around the World (17:11)Candy and witches are staples to us in America, but Halloween around the world looks a bit different. So much so, some countries celebrate it in the summer! From carved turnips and decorated graves, to lantern festivals, we unpack what the spooky season looks like in all corners of the globe! ⛩️ Kyoto’s Expensive Tourist Tax (32:55)Every day there’s a new destination fighting back against overtourism. Kyoto is our primary subject today! After witnessing record numbers this summer, Kyoto is raising their tourist tax but up to 900% in some places. The new tax will be tacked on to all hotel stays in the city and is per person, per night! Yes, it can add up quickly Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎒 Is travel attire going to get you banned? (01:29)Picking your plane outfit can really make or break your flight experience and we all love a good travel hack. But when travel attire and innovation mix, is it a recipe for disaster? We start off today’s episode discussing the latest unique travel clothing and why airlines might not like it.💸 Free Bags vs. Free Booze (09:30)The battle of the freebies is on! Or maybe it’s not. We debate which we’d rather have from airlines if we could only have one or the other: free checked bags or free booze. And yes, this is inspired by true events.🎃 The Halloween Capital of the World (14:19)The city that holds this elusive, spooky title might surprise you! What started from a tricky history and evolved into a celebration that’s definitely a treat, we’ve got a lot to cover for this quaint town in the midwest that has earned its right to declare itself the Halloween Capital of the World. 🌐 What in the World is Going on With the EU? (39:54)If you’re planning a trip to Europe, more specifically the European Union, your entry and exit might look a little different now. That’s right, Schengen has a new system for non-citizens coming into the area which is supposed to speed up the process but it might slow you down when it first rolls out. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

✈️ Your Next Airplane Movie (01:31)It’s no surprise that movies with a travel thing just hit different when you’re at cruising altitude on the way to your next destination. On our last flight, Wyatt discovered a new movie that he thinks fits the criteria perfectly: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Don’t let the title fool you, it is indeed a perfect airplane movie.💸 How Much Is Convenience Worth to You? (07:55)Have you ever considered volunteering to push your flight in exchange for monetary compensation? Would you do it for just $25? Inspired by a real offer Wyatt received from Alaska Airlines, we discuss what our minimum dollar amount would be to give up our seat on a flight to take one that’s less…convenient. Spoiler: it’s more than $25.🌊 Lake Tahoe: Its Long History, Fun Facts, Things to do, & More! (13:29)We dive (pun intended) into all the things about Lake Tahoe in California, and Nevada, as Wyatt is heading there for a bachelor party. 🚢 What in the World is Going on With The Great Lakes? (39:24)Cruises! That’s right, American Cruise Lines is setting sail in 2026 with the first-ever domestic cruise route that will traverse several great lakes, all while never crossing the U.S. border. Are we in or out on a domestic cruise line? How much does this cost? Can you even fit a cruise ship on a lake? Fear not, we’ve got it covered. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🇨🇦 Have you heard of Flag Jacking? (01:33)It’s not what you think it is, or is it? Flag Jacking is one of the latest trends for travelers abroad where they rep not their home country, but somewhere else. We discuss why folks feel the need to do this and what we think about it.🍁 The Best Fall Flavor (08:37)A new season means new flavors and nothing says, “fall is here” like that first taste of pumpkin… Or apple! Or maple! Or pecan! The debate for best fall flavor is officially on. Will you agree or disagree with our picks?🍂 Fall Factual vs Fallacy, Where in the Fall is This?, and Everything Fall Travel (13:27)Before we dive into all things Fall Travel, we have a couple of games lined up to see if Chantel can correctly guess Fall Factual vs Fallacy (true or false) and Where in the Fall is This? (trivia). Play along and let us know if you have her beat! Then find out everything you need to know about fall travel, including a deep dive into Vermont’s Route 100.🚢 What in the World is Going on With Four Seasons Cruises? (41:24)From the fall season to the Four Seasons! If you’re a fan of travel or The White Lotus, then you’re familiar with Four Seasons and their luxurious hotel destinations around the world. Since they’ve conquered land, they’ve decided to try their hand at sea! That’s right, Four Seasons is debuting their own luxury yacht cruise experience and we’re giving you all the deets you need before it makes its inaugural sail Spring 2026. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🐻 Big Week in Travel (01:31)No we’re not just talking about our return to the US but instead Fat Bear Week & World Tourism Day! Fat Bear week from Katmai National Park celebrates the big beasts and gives us something to smile about and National Tourism Day highlights the good and importance of Tourism with a new theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation” and host country Malaysia 🏙️ What’s the best city in Japan? (11:59)okay, it’s not the official claim but of the 3 cities we visited, what is the official Bag Tag ranking of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka? Chantel and Wyatt have different 1s but the same 3s!!!🇯🇵 Unpacking Japan - Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka (17:40)We take you on a step by step journey through all the fun activities we took on in the big 3 giving some insight into some of our favorite spots, things we learned, favorite food spots, and somethings we probably would have done differently. We also gush over the Shinkansen bullet train!  🛫 Runway Report - Haneda Airport (83:41)Tokyo’s international airport gets added to the list. Does the layout, efficiency, stores, shops, and vibes give it a chance to land high on the list? Spoiler- it’s not at the bottom Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

💺The Exit Row Hack is Not Real (01:35)Sure, booking the exit row sounds like the cheat code for infinite legroom. But after six hours of flying, you’re not stretching out like royalty—you’re the unofficial leaning post for every aisle-stretcher and bathroom wanderer. Congrats, you’ve basically booked a lobby.✈️ What to Do if Your Plane is Diverted (06:44)Your flight just pulled the ultimate plot twist and landed somewhere you didn’t ask for. Now what? We walk through how to handle surprise stopovers, from a few inconvenient hours to an unexpected bonus vacation day.⛩️ Kyoto – Everything You Need to Know (10:41)Temples, tea ceremonies, and enough history to fill a plane’s worth of guidebooks—we’ll hit you with the highlights, quirky facts, and can’t-miss experiences to make your Kyoto trip unforgettable.🍲 Osaka – Everything You Need to Know (27:48)Street food heaven, neon nights, and a vibe that’s totally its own. We’ll break down what makes Osaka a must-visit (and no, it’s not just the takoyaki… but also yes, the takoyaki).💰 What in the World is Going on with Airline Compensation? (46:03)The government just scrapped a rule that would’ve made airline reimbursement simple and traveler-friendly. So what does this actually mean for your wallet when the inevitable flight chaos strikes? We unpack the messy aftermath. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🤖 Don’t use ChatGPT to plan Travel (01:28)Okay, you can but like please, please, please sabrina carpenter style…use it as one of MANY different resources to help you plan or you may end up like this couple who got stranded and vacation ruined for putting all their trust in the ai!!! We breakdown what happened and how to prevent this! 👾 The Best Japanese Mascot (08:36)This one was tough. There are so many iconic mascots that have come out of Japan - Hello Kitty, Mario, Pikachu, Gudetama but only one can be the ruler of them all. We debate which mascot is the most iconic and we don’t agree on which it should be! 🇯🇵 The History, Fun Facts, and Top Things to do in Tokyo (14:08)We’re headed of to Tokyo, the top destination on both of our bucket lists for some time. We take a look at how this fishing village grew, was destroyed and bounced back to become the largest metro in the world! Then we drop some crazy fun facts about the city before discussing the top things to do in Tokyo and try to figure out what the heck we will do while we’re there 🎢 What in the World is PokePark (64:07)We have Disneyland, Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Nintendo Land, but where in the world is a Pokemon Land. It has finally arrived…well almost. PokePark is headed to Tokyo in 2026 marking the first permanent Pokemon amusement park in the world. We unpack all the deets so you can get hyped and ready to go!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🍂 Back to Fall (01:03)You’re never too old to get into the Back to School Spirit! While Labor Day Weekend no longer marks the end of summer break for us, we still used this time to regroup and get ready for a new season. Instead of going back to school, we’re looking forward to heading into fall and the start of football season (or maybe it’s just Wyatt who’s excited for football).🏠 What’s the best season to stay home and not travel? (09:27)While there’s really never a bad time to travel, if we had to pick one season to just stay home…what would it be? We discuss the best time of year to be in the house, and finally uncover what Chantel’s personal seasonal calendar is. Brace yourselves.✈️ Summer Travel Industry Performance (18:10)If you’ve ever traveled during the summer, you know the absolute chaos that ensues as everyone else is also trying to make it to their travel destinations. Except this year was a bit different. We unpack the 2025 Summer Travel Headlines and Trends that took over the industry 🗺️ Big Summer Unpack (36:33)The Bag Tag crew kept busy this summer as we enjoyed 7 different trips, and by summer we’re talking labor day to memorial day. That leaves us with a lot to unpack. We talk philly, LA, NY, atlantic city, Carmel by the Sea, San Juan Islands and the Boundary Waters! 🌎 Everything you need to know about Disney after D23 2025 (63:35)D23 brings tons of new updates in the world of Disney…and not just the movies. From the parks in the US to overseas, as well as Disney at Sea, we take a look at all the new attractions headed to the parks that were announced at D23 2025! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🖥️ Save the Seatback Screens (01:35)Airlines keep trying to ditch seatback screens like they’re yesterday’s inflight peanuts—replacing them with the “privilege” of using our own devices. No thanks! We’re launching an official campaign to save the seatback screen, because how else are we supposed to binge trashy shows and doomscroll at 30,000 feet?🗿 Are You Drawn to UNESCO Sites? (03:58)Sure, the 7 Wonders hog the spotlight on everyone’s travel bucket list, but what about UNESCO sites? Do they spark that same “must-travel” itch? You may never check them all off, but do they make you want to book that next adventure? Let’s find out.🗺️ What Even Is UNESCO in Travel? (08:38)UNESCO’s been popping up in the headlines—but what does it actually do, and why should travelers care? We’re unpacking the meaning behind the label, spotlighting some underrated sites, and exploring why those blue plaques can turn a place into a must-visit.🌎 Why the US Ghosted UNESCO (Again) (33:43)The US just dipped out of UNESCO—for the third time. Yep, third. We break down the political drama, the reasons behind the exit, and what it means for the future of global heritage (and your travel plans). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

📱Cellphone Lots (01:29)Why do people insist on playing “airport chicken” at arrivals, clogging up lanes like it’s rush hour on the runway? Newsflash: your passenger doesn’t land for 30 minutes. That’s what cellphone lots are for! They’re close, comfy, and perfect for a Netflix binge or a little stretch before the big reunion.🎲 Best Cabin Activity – Campfire Stories or Board Games (04:00)Sure, both hit different when you’re tucked away in the woods—but only one can claim cabin supremacy. Chantel swears nothing tops the spooky magic of a crackling campfire, while Wyatt rallies hard for the competitive chaos of board games. Which one belongs in the cabin hall of fame? We debate it out.🌲 Cabin Craze (12:36)Post-pandemic travel went wild for cabins, and honestly, who can blame anyone? From cozy escapes in the mountains to lakeside hideouts, the cabin takeover is real. We dive into the top 5 cabin destinations in the U.S.—plus the best season to hit each one.🛶 The Boundary Waters of Minnesota (24:20)Step off the grid and straight into a time machine. The Boundary Waters is a legendary wilderness with thousands of canoe trails, endless adventures, and a National Geographic stamp of approval. We share the must-knows before you paddle out into one of the most pristine spots in America.🇬🇷 Chonkus Maximus in Greece (42:04)Move over Acropolis—Greece’s most unexpected tourist icon was a cat. Yes, Chonkus Maximus became an overnight sensation, stealing hearts worldwide. We chart the rise, reign, and current whereabouts of this feline queen of tourism. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

💺 The “Best” Airline Seats for Couples – Let’s End This Madness (01:36) Internet influencers (a.k.a. people with ring lights and opinions) are swearing up and down that the best seating arrangement for couples is two aisle seats across from each other. Allegedly, you get more elbow room and an easy escape to the bathroom. In reality? It’s relationship sabotage disguised as travel advice. You’ll be forced into a weird across-the-aisle shouting match like you’re in competing Broadway productions. Want to share snacks? Prepare for awkward midair handoffs as flight attendants glare at you. Need to hold hands? You can’t—unless you both have Inspector Gadget arms. For couples who actually want to sit together and gasp talk without yelling over strangers, stick with your classic side-by-side window and middle—or if you’re lucky enough to find them, those cozy two-seaters at the back of some planes. Romance is not yelling “What?!” over the beverage cart. 🏝 Can You Guess How Many Islands There Are? (05:29) It’s the travel world’s version of “How many M&Ms are in the jar?”—except the jar is Earth, and the M&Ms are islands. At first, you’ll guess a modest few hundred. Then you’ll remember—oh right—there are islands in lakes, islands in rivers, islands that only pop up when the tide is low and someone’s Instagramming a picnic on them. Turns out there are hundreds of thousands. Yep, even more than the number of unread emails in your inbox. The actual total might blow your mind, and no, you don’t get a prize if you’re close. Unless you count bragging rights at trivia night, which we fully support. 🚤 The San Juan Islands – Friday Harbor Edition (09:23)Nestled off the coast of northern Washington, the San Juan Islands are a whole other kind of Pacific Northwest magic—think postcard-perfect harbors, orca-spotting boat rides, and that salty sea air that makes you want to write bad poetry. Friday Harbor is the star of the show, with quaint shops, fresh seafood, and a laid-back vibe that could convince even the busiest city-dweller to finally slow down. Fun fact: the islands were once at the center of the Pig War—yes, an actual historical dispute over a pig. Today, they’re better known for kayaking, whale watching, and sunset views so good you’ll briefly consider quitting your job to open an artisanal jam stand. 🚄 What’s the Deal with California’s High-Speed Rail? (31:10) California’s high-speed rail project has been in the works since roughly the dawn of time (okay, since 2008, but it feels like forever). The idea: a sleek, bullet-train-style route whisking passengers from Los Angeles to San Francisco in under three hours—no middle seat required. The reality: budget overruns, construction delays, and more political drama than a reality TV reunion. Recently, the Trump administration pulled funding, throwing yet another wrench into the project’s already sluggish progress. Will it ever get built? Maybe. Will you be retired and collecting seashells by the time you ride it? Also maybe. For now, the dream lives on—at least in renderings and very ambitious timelines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

⏰ Delayed Departure (01:36)Last week, Wyatt was hit with a surprise visit from his friends from New York to help him celebrate his big 3-0 birthday which unfortunately caused a slight delay in last week’s episode but we are back and unpacking the joy of being a tour guide to friends 🇺🇸 What are the 4 US Cities (05:53)Of course, we had to throw our opinions into the debate that has taken over the internet. What are the 4 U.S. Cities? No extra context, no additional guidelines. Just straight up what are the four US cities. Well it turns out, Wyatt and Chantel couldn’t even agree so there’s a real reason for the debate! Is it New York, LA, Chicago, San Fran, DC, Miami, Houston, Atlanta, or Boston?? Someone even suggested Vegas?? 🏘️Carmel-by-the-Sea & Carmel Valley (16:11)We’re heading back to the Monterey Peninsula—but this time, we’re trading sea lions and sourdough for storybook cottages and wine-soaked sunshine as we unpack all things Carmel-by-the-Sea and its chill inland cousin, Carmel Valley. If you’ve ever wanted to visit a town where your mail goes to the post office, your dog can dine with you, and wearing stilettos technically requires a permit (yes, really), Carmel’s got you covered. Chantel practically grew up here—thanks to years of pliés and pirouettes at my childhood dance studio—so this episode’s basically a hometown roast with love. We’re spilling the tea on everything from high-heeled laws and Clint Eastwood’s mayoral days to where to sip the best chardonnay after hiking among waterfalls. 🌎 What is going on with AI Pricing with Flights? (47:38)What is going on with AI and airfare? We’re diving into how Delta is shaking up the skies by ditching traditional pricing and letting AI take the wheel—at least for 20% of its flights by year’s end. They're calling it a “full reengineering” of fares, but critics say it’s more like your wallet getting psychoanalyzed by a robot. Is this the future of flying or just a fancy new way to squeeze us dry? We break down the tech, the backlash, and whether your next plane ticket might come with a side of algorithmic mind games. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🤓 What You Didn’t Know About Wyoming (01:26)Did you know Wyoming only has two escalators in the entire state? Yes. Two. And if you count one up and one down separately, then congrats—you’ve officially doubled your tour. We’re talking 10 minutes, both escalators, full circuit. But that’s just the tip of the quirky iceberg. From illegal rabbit photography (not a joke) to the myth of no-Wednesday-showers in Cheyenne, we’re dishing out our favorite Wyoming oddities—plus fun facts like dinosaur discoveries, outlaw hats in theaters, and how the state basically invented dude ranches. Yeehaw, knowledge!🐎 What Would You Name Your Rodeo Horse? (10:03)We take a very serious detour into a very important debate: what would we name our rodeo horse if we were tearing it up at the Cheyenne Frontier Days? Think: sass, flair, maybe a nod to Beyoncé. (Spoiler: “Escalator Drama” was absolutely on the list.) Whether you’re a “Dusty Pickles” or a “Thunder Queen” kind of rider, we’re giving this question the gravitas it deserves.🎤 Interview with Piper & Hailey from the Wyoming Office of Tourism (13:42)Then, we’re joined by the Cowboy State PR—Piper Singer and Hailey Mach from the Wyoming Office of Tourism. These two know how to wrangle more than just media…they’re shaping the way the world sees the wild, wonderful west. We dive into why tourism in Wyoming is booming this year (spoiler: cowboy culture is trending and Beyoncé might be to blame), how small-town charm is becoming a big draw, and how the state is finding clever ways to welcome more visitors while fiercely protecting its natural beauty. From soaking in mineral hot springs to spotting baby wildlife on a spring hike, they paint a picture of a state that’s as adventurous as it is authentic. They also take us behind the scenes of their Destination Development Program, a thoughtful initiative that helps small towns grow their tourism game without losing their soul.🎿 Skijoring 101 (AKA Skiing But With Horses Because Why Not) (37:14)Ever looked at water skiing and thought, “This is fun, but what if I added a horse and some snow?” Welcome to the world of skijoring. We do a deep dive into this uniquely Wyoming winter sport where skiers are pulled at full speed behind galloping horses—sometimes through downtown streets. From its European roots to its fleeting Olympic cameo in 1928, we break down the weird, wild, and wonderfully extra world of skijoring. Bonus: we weigh in on whether it deserves a comeback at the Winter Games. (Spoiler: we’re team yes.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🚢 From the Poop Cruise to the Flu Cruise? (01:36)Cruises are going through something at the moment…maybe it’s time to load up on some vitamin sea because right after the world got finished being engulfed by the Netflix Documentary - the poop cruise, a cruise full of joyful passengers tryna enjoy a nice holiday gets hit with a gastrointestinal disease 🌪️ Lava Chasers vs Storm Chasers (07:26)We’re all quite familiar when it comes to storm chasers, they’ve made movies about these sorta people - does Twister & Twisters ring a bell? Okay, but what about Lava Chasers - the people who venture off to catch lava spewing and flowing from volcanos? Well between the two types of adventurer, which would you choose?  🌋 Volcano Tourism - Pacific Northwest (14:20)Yes, Volcano Tourism is a thing and it’s likely what you expect - tourism set around Volcanos! So let’s dive into the specifics of it. We break down the types of volcanos, the pacific ring of fire, and narrow in on the Pacific Northwest - home to some of the most active volcanos in the world. We break down the travel info for volcanos in Washington, Oregon, and Northern California 🇺🇸 What in the World is going on with the new US Visa Fee (48:11)Hidden in the recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill” was the inclusion of a new US Visa Fee of $250 that will impact many around the world who are hoping to come to America for the 2026 Fifa World Cup, America’s 250th birthday celebration, and the 2028 Olympics in LA. So what does this all mean? We break it down.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

💩 Poop Cruise Review (01:32)We finally sat down and watched the Poop Cruise Doc on Netflix…not during dinner though…we almost did but we didn’t! We’re here to unpack the most notable aspects like being told to go get coffee and then the ship shutting down – talk about a nightmare. And of course, we talk about the red bags!  🍿 TV & Movie Inspired Trips (14:52)Have you ever picked a vacation destination based on a show or movie filming location? Wyatt and Chantel discuss what shows have inspired them to take an adventure and Wyatt reveals which show and episode got him to pack his bags and MOVE to Hawaii. Oh how different life would have been if he didn’t watch that….🎬 Set-Jetting (23:51)Nothing Beats a Set 2 Holiday LOLOL. For real though, what is Set Jetting? We dive into how set jetting has impacted countries and cities from New Zealand to Scotland all thanks to Hollywood picking them to set. Plus, we uncover some filming locations that we’ve stumbled upon while traveling.🌎 What in the World is going on with UNESCO? (54:09)UNESCO just unveiled 26 new World Heritage sites! We look at what that means and highlight two places you must definitely have heard of and may even become a set jetting location one day Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

✈️ Oakland Airport Naming Saga Continues (01:47)We’re revisiting one of our very first podcast stories: the spicy saga of Oakland Airport’s identity crisis. Once upon a time, they boldly (and confusingly) tried to rename themselves the San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport — because nothing says clarity like blending two rival cities into one airport name. Fast forward a year, sprinkle in some lawsuits, add a dash of passenger confusion, and guess what? Oakland’s back at it again, still trying to sort out their airport identity. Spoiler alert: the drama is far from over.🎙️ Aviation Alphabet (10:04)Then, we test our phonetic skills with the Aviation Alphabet — you know, that official pilot lingo where “N” is definitely not for “Nancy.” Chantel puts Wyatt to the test (and you too!) to see who can actually get through this alphabet without making up words like “Q…as in…Quokka?”🌍 Economics & Controversies behind the 7 Wonders (21:16)And speaking of confusion — oh, you thought there was just one list of the Seven Wonders of the World? Think again. We’re peeling back the layers of controversy, competition, and cash behind the Seven Wonders — from the Ancient list to the Natural list to the Modern list that, frankly, caused a global voting frenzy. Who really decides what counts as a wonder, and why does it sound like a reality show gone rogue?🏺 The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) (52:00)Finally, we fly over to Cairo where the long-awaited, much-hyped Grand Egyptian Museum (aka GEM) is still not open, but promises to shake up tourism like never before — if it ever stops being delayed. Think: King Tut, the Pyramids, and a history lesson on a blockbuster scale.Grab your boarding pass — this episode is part travel drama, part trivia night, and all-around chaos  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🦁It all started in the Serengeti (01:35)One of the best things about travel is that it exposes you to countless new experiences, broadening your life beyond the day-to-day and opening you up for connections you wouldn’t have found otherwise. One sunrise excursion on the Serengeti showed us something truly adventurous – leaving us yearning to learn more and adding to our travel bucket list.💺 Seat Pocket - What design would you pick for your hot air balloon? (05:52)It’s not all about looks, but maybe it is in this week’s Seat Pocket segment. As our experience with ballooning leaves something to be desired, one area we feel confident discussing: the designs we would choose for our own (hypothetical) hot air balloons. We’ve debated the best-wrapped airplanes, so it only feels right that we expand our design debates to a different bird of the sky – balloons.🎈 Aviation Legend & Ballooning Pioneer - Troy Bradley (10:28)Then we welcome Troy Bradley, a highly decorated balloon pilot holding over 60 records, Chief Pilot of the Rainbow Ryders, the true definition of an adventurer. Troy takes us to new heights as he walks through his most memorable and impressive balloon flights, breaks down the various types of balloons, what goes into long-haul flights, plus what it was like to come from a family of balloon pilots, and carry on the tradition. It’s more than just a hobby or career, it’s a lifestyle of passion, perseverance, and determination.🪁 Living a Life of Adventure (46:00)Some of us spend our days stuck in the confines of a desk, dreaming of our next escape. Meanwhile, there are some of us who truly live a life of adventure, breaking the mold and following our dreams wholeheartedly. Whatever it may be, we hope you have the courage to find your happiness and hold on to it. Buckle up and join us on this journey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do you get when you cross Squid Game, Stranger Things, a mini-golf course, and a Bridgerton-inspired cocktail? No, this isn’t the fever dream of your Netflix-binge brain… it’s Netflix House, and it’s coming for your travel plans — and your fandom heart.In this episode, we break down Netflix’s wild new venture into real-life, immersive chaos with not one, but two 100,000-square-foot mega-experiences opening in — wait for it — Philadelphia and Dallas. So whether you’re craving a fandom-fueled vacation or just want to justify a trip to the mall again, press play and get the full scoop on the wildest streaming crossover event — in real life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙️Introducing Bag Tag Travel Interview (01:29)When you talk to people in the travel industry, you're not just swapping itineraries — you're unlocking stories from the frontlines of adventure. In our conversations, we dive into what inspires them, what challenges them, and how they bring destinations to life — one passport stamp, plate of street food, or off-the-beaten-path secret at a time. 💺 Seat Pocket - Places We’re Starving to Visit (03:11)This week, we’re skipping the usual tourist traps and going straight for the snacks. Chantel & Wyatt dive into the destinations topping their bucket list not for the landmarks, beaches, or photo ops… but for one reason only: the food. We’re talking travel purely motivated by what’s on the menu — because sometimes, it’s not about climbing the Eiffel Tower, it’s about climbing into a perfectly gooey wheel of baked Camembert.🍽️ Devour Tours - Lauren Aloise (07:29)Then, we sit down with Lauren Aloise, founder of the incredible Devour Tours, who turned her love of authentic eats into a travel empire. She spills the sangria on how Devour began, what makes a truly delicious tour, and how food is more than a meal — it’s a window into culture, history, and community.🍛 A Bite About Food Tourism (36:59)The World Food Travel Association calls it “traveling for a taste of place to get a sense of place,” and honestly? We couldn’t agree more. From Tokyo ramen alleys to tapas bars in Seville, we explore how food fuels travel decisions just as much as scenery and sunshine.So grab a fork (or chopsticks, or naan, or a tortilla) and join us Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.