Explore With Tony

I used ChatGPT to plan most of my trip to Portugal in late 2025. How did it go? Pretty well, though with some hiccups. Listen to learn what I'm going to do different next time.

I went to see The Wizard of Oz at the Sphere in Vegas. Did it live up to the hype? Listen for my experience.

We visited Lisbon and Porto with our 16 month old for Thanksgiving. Here is a recap of how things went, lessons learned, and what I would do differently next time.Car seat: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Cosco-Kids-Scenera-NEXT-Convertible-Car-Seat-Moonlit-Night-Infant-Toddler-Unisex/9321554473Stroller: https://www.amazon.com/Joolz-Lightweight-Travel-Stroller-Toddler/dp/B0FM82ZBZR/

I recently completed Ride the Rim in Oregon (https://ridetherimoregon.com/). It was about 35 miles for the whole loop, traversing huge ascents and declines given the hilly route. It was a lot of fun and you should look into it for next year!My bike:https://www.salsacycles.com/collections/confluence (though honestly it was a bit heavy and I aimed to NOT use the e-bike portion, so a regular road bike likely would have been better)

Show Notes & LinksJonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation (book that inspired earlier thoughts): Buy it hereMoment App – To track and limit screen timeDay One Journal App – Simple way to jot down daily travel memoriesHeadspace Mindful Walking Guide – Practice staying present, even while moving

In this episode of Explore with Tony, I reflect on how technology has shaped — and sometimes undermined—the way we travel, inspired by my recent read of The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. As someone who grew up before smartphones were a constant presence, I share how I’ve seen the shift from real-world connection to screen-based living, even on the road. I talk about how travel used to feel more immersive and how I’m now trying to reclaim some of that presence — both for myself and as a model for my son. I share practical tips on disconnecting while still using your devices mindfully, and challenge you to try just one afternoon of travel without checking your phone. Let’s get back to experiencing travel with our own eyes, not just through our screens.Check out the book:The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Japan is one of my favorite countries and Tokyo is awesome. Here's why and a few links you can check out after the episode:teamLab Planets (Digital Art Exhibit): https://planets.teamlab.art/tokyo/Suica & Pasmo Transit Cards: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2359_003.htmlTsukiji Outer Market Info: https://www.tsukiji.or.jp/english/Best Tokyo Neighborhoods to Explore: Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku, Asakusa, and GinzaWant more Japan episodes? Let me know—I’ve got plenty more where this came from.

Samsung Frame TV – Learn moreMy Van Gogh-Style Conversion Prompt:“Convert the photos I upload into a painting using Van Gogh style with obvious paint splotches/bumps/texture spots. Colors should track the photo, but be realistic in terms of what a real artist would be able to replicate. Make the final image 3840 x 2160 pixels. Do not add a border.”Custom Art & Print Tools:Moo.com – Custom postcards and printsArtifact Uprising – Photo books and home decorCanvasPop – Canvas art from your own photosLet me know if you want a version of this with one of your own converted images as a cover reference!

If you’re looking for a more organized way to pack, the Solgaard closet system is a must-try. Let me know what your go-to travel bags are, and I might feature them in a future episode!My Current Travel Setup: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Suitcase – Learn more Solgaard Travel Backpack – Learn more Nomatic Travel Pack – Learn moreOther Popular Travel Backpacks I Haven’t Tried Yet But Am Considering: Peak Design Travel Backpack – Learn more Tortuga Travel Backpack – Learn more Able Carry Max Backpack – Learn more

If you’re looking to simplify your travel charging setup, switching to USB-C everything is the easiest way to do it. Let me know what your go-to travel chargers are, and I might feature them in a future episode!My Favorite Travel Chargers:Anker MagSafe Compatible MagGo UFO 3-in-1 Charger – Amazon LinkAnker Nano Travel Adapter – Amazon LinkMYBAT Magnetic Portable Charger 5000mAh – Amazon LinkCable Matters Short Retractable USB-C Cable (3.3 ft) – Amazon Link

In this episode of Explore with Tony, I relive my experience hiking half of the Tour du Mont Blanc, from France into Italy. What was originally supposed to be a three-day trek turned into an ambitious—and slightly ridiculous—27-mile day when we decided to push through in the heat, dodging sheep and racing the sunset. I share the highs, the lows, and what I’d do differently next time. Whether you’re planning this trek yourself or just love a good travel story, this one’s for you! Here's some ideas based on where we stayed: Refuge Miage campground (France) Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme (France) Rifugio Elisabetta (Italy) Chalet Plan Gorret (Courmayeur, Italy) Tour du Mont Blanc Overview: Guide to Trekking the TMB Packing List for Long-Distance Hiking: REI Trekking Gear Guide Tips for High-Altitude Hiking: CDC Guide to High Altitude Travel

Hiking to Machu Picchu was one of the most fun hikes I've had, taking me up to 15,000 feet and back down through a cloud forest and jungles. Let's recap the trip. Company I Used: Salkantay Trekking - 5-Day Salkantay & Llactapata TrekPacking List for the Salkantay Trek: REI Trekking Gear GuideAltitude Sickness Tips: CDC Guide to High Altitude Travel

In this episode of Explore with Tony, we dive into the tech tools and gadgets that can transform your travel experience. From essential apps like Google Maps and Point.me to must-have gadgets like portable chargers and travel routers, I share practical examples of how these tools have helped me navigate, stay connected, and capture unforgettable moments. Whether you're exploring remote landscapes or bustling cities, these recommendations will keep your travel smart and stress-free. Apps: Point.me: Simplify award travel bookings and find the best deals on flights. TripIt: Organize your itineraries seamlessly. Duolingo: Learn essential phrases before traveling abroad. Gadgets: Anker PowerCore Portable Charger: Stay charged during long travel days. Avantree Relay: Use your headphones on the seat-back plane entertainment system. Universal travel adapter: Carry one adapter for all countries.

My two favorite credit cards for travel are the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the American Express Platinum. Join me today as I discuss why and how I use these two cards. Helpful Resources: Chase Sapphire Reserve Overview American Express Business Platinum Perks Point Redemption Strategies from NerdWallet

Join Tony in this New Year’s Day episode of Explore with Tony as he reflects on 2024’s transformative travel moments, from Argentina and Antarctica to family trips in Hawaii and Arizona. Discover his goals for 2025, including a European adventure with his baby and exploring new states and national parks in the USA. Tune in to hear how Tony is transitioning from fast travel to family travel and why creating memories with loved ones is the ultimate travel goal. Helpful Links for Family Travel: Flying with a Baby: Tips for flying stress-free with infants. Best Baby-Friendly Travel Destinations: Domestic and international trip ideas tailored for families. Pet-Friendly Road Trip Tips: Plan trips with your dog in mind.

In this episode of Explore with Tony, I share how I was able to turn my honeymoon into an around-the-world adventure, visiting multiple continents in luxury — all for under $1,000 out of pocket! We used Point.me and a mix of Chase Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy points. We booked business-class flights with lay-flat seats, ensuring comfort on long-haul journeys. We break down our itinerary, including highlights like hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc in Europe, immersing in Tokyo's food scene, and relaxing on the beaches of Hawaii. Plus, we share practical tips for using points to book award travel and make your dream trip a reality. Links to Helpful Resources: Point.me: An award flight search tool that helps you find the best deals using points and miles. How to Book Business Class Flights with Points: A guide on using flexible credit card points to secure premium cabin flights. Step-by-Step Guide to Using Award Flights: Learn how to maximize the value of your points for long-haul travel.

In this episode, Tony shares his first experience flying with a 4-month-old baby, including the highs, the lows, and everything in between. From booking surprises to in-flight crying, he covers what went right, what went wrong, and how to prepare for smoother travels with an infant. Check out these articles for more information: ⁠Flying with an Infant: Tips for a Smooth Trip⁠This article offers a comprehensive guide on flying with a baby, from what to pack to keeping your baby calm during the flight. ⁠How to Survive Air Travel with a Baby⁠A helpful resource covering everything from booking tips to in-flight entertainment for your little one. ⁠The Ultimate Guide to Traveling with Babies and Toddlers⁠A must-read for parents traveling with young children, including advice on navigating airports, packing efficiently, and staying sane during delays. Let us know your own travel tips or stories by sending a message to the show. Happy travels!

Today, we’re going behind the scenes into one of my favorite parts of traveling—wildlife photography. From Kenya to Antarctica, I’ve used my Canon T8i with a Sigma 18-300mm lens to capture some amazing moments, even in challenging conditions. In this episode, I’ll be sharing practical tips for getting the best shots in environments that are cold, hot, or even a bit shaky. Here are some links for products I discussed: Sigma 18-300mm lens Cold Shoe Phone Mount Clamp Mount Canon T8i

I’m diving into one of the most unforgettable trips of my life — a 10-day cruise to Antarctica! In February 2024, I set sail on the Ocean Endeavor, a cruise ship organized by Intrepid Travel, from the port of Ushuaia in Argentina. Let me tell you, this wasn’t just a trip; it was a full-on expedition into one of the most remote, breathtaking, and humbling places on Earth. Let's talk about details on this episode of Explore with Tony. Here are some links of things I mentioned: Chimu Adventures (we booked using them - awesome experience) Ocean Endeavour with Intrepid Travel Smartwool Base Layer Pants Smartwool Base Layer Shirt Antarctica Travel Group on Facebook

Welcome to the podcast!

We just got back from 12 days in Portugal (Lisbon and Porto) with our 17 month old baby. It was his first international trip. Here are the highlights and some things to think about if you're taking a similar trip with a baby soon.Joolz Travel Stroller – Lightweight, compact, handles cobblestones wellCosco Scenera NEXT Car Seat – Affordable, narrow, ideal for flightsMarriott Hotels – Consistent crib availability across properties and early check in/late check out with statusBolt in Portugal – Reliable alternative to trains when traveling with lots of gear similar to Uber in the USA

https://ridetherimoregon.com