PODCAST · society
Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast
by A Travel Podcast
Out of Office is a travel podcast hosted by us, Ryan Davis and Kiernan Schmitt. From early childhood, we were each infected with a serious case of wanderlust (among other things.) We define travel broadly, from local day trips to high-flyin' overseas adventures. Every episode, we dig into one topic—ranging from the serious to the silly, the practical to the outlandish—and give advice on how to get out there and explore the world.
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Bronx Zoo
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," Kiernan covers the history and highlights of the Bronx Zoo. We also touch on Scientology, Mitt Romney, callings to the priesthood, and Colombia's biodiversity. Things We Talk About on Today's Episode: Little Red Lighthouse https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Red_Lighthouse Bronx Zoo https://bronxzoo.com/ William Temple Hornaday and the Bison https://siarchives.si.edu/history/featured-topics/stories/william-temple-hornaday-saving-american-bison The Atlantic's "Best Free Restaurant Bread in America" by Caity Weaver https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/2026/05/best-free-restaurant-bread-america/686582/ Trump's photo added to US passports https://www.foxnews.com/politics/exclusive-state-department-introduces-new-us-passports-celebrating-america250
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Spain's Andalusian Costa del Sol
This week on Out Of Office, Ryan and Kiernan explore Spain's Costa del Sol, from Málaga's layered history of Roman and Moorish influence to Marbella's relaxed, sun-soaked Old Town. It's a quick dive into how this region became a global tourism hotspot, blending culture, beaches, and just the right amount of indulgence.
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Croatia's Plitvice Lakes National Park
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," Kiernan takes us to one of Europe's greatest natural treasures: Plitvice Lake National Park in Croatia. Beautiful ice-blue lakes and gorgeous waterfalls are lined with easy-to-navigate boardwalks, and hiking trails traverse the whole park. Plus, Ryan isn't moving to Austria as early as we thought! Things We Talked About in Today's Episode: Rick Steves is on tour! https://www.ricksteves.com/about-rick/wheres-rick Rick Steves interview https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/rick-steves-is-back-for-episode-200/id1438098925?i=1000704427247 Plitvice Lakes National Park https://np-plitvicka-jezera.hr/en/ Plitvice Hikes https://www.afar.com/magazine/visiting-plitvice-lakes-national-park-in-croatia Titanic drone show https://www.dailymail.co.uk/video/tv/video-3629983/Video-Drone-recreates-Titanics-historic-Belfast-departure.html Map of art and cultural destruction in Iran https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2026/03/25/we-are-trying-to-preserve-the-memory-of-our-people-archaeologists-create-map-tracking-damage-to-iran-heritage-sites
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National Park Match Making
This week on Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, Kiernan recommends national parks for you to visit this summer, based on your preferences. Looking for zero crowds? Yearning for high-adrenaline action? Searching for variety? KPS unleashes his NPS knowledge. Things we talked about in today's podcast: Kiernan on NPR https://www.wgbh.org/podcasts/the-culture-show/march-10-2026-shaina-taub-on-suffs-a-secret-boston-st-patricks-day-and-fabiola-mendez National Parks of the Pacific Northwest https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/national-parks-of-the-pacific-northwest/id1438098925?i=1000442664674 State Parks with Peter Kujawinski https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/state-parks-with-peter-kujawinski/id1438098925?i=1000445675724 Things from up children's noses https://apps.bostonglobe.com/2026/03/opinion/ideas/graphics/lost-found/ Burning PA Town https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/centralia-pennsylvania-rebirth
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Sheltering In Place in Puerto Vallarta
On this episode of Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, Ryan talks about sheltering in place in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico during the 2026 Jalisco Operation. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/video/news/video-3608909/Tourist-stranded-Mexico-El-Mencho-operation.html
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Return Trip: Skiing for the Skeptical
This week, as Kiernan is skiing in real life and Ryan is freshly back from Puerto Vallarta, Out of Office: A Travel Podcast takes a return trip. The boys talk about their holiday breaks and discuss why ski trips are well worth the expense and the steep learning curve. Plus, Ryan has a onesie. Here's what we cover in this episode: NYT on European Skiing https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/19/travel/europe-skiing-budget.html Beaver Creek https://www.beavercreek.com/ Cannon Mountain in New Hampshire https://www.cannonmt.com/tickets
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Most Memorable Food Experiences
This week on the pod, the boys talk about their favorite food experiences, from Peru to Dubai, with a little Eastern Shore of Maryland thrown in. Plus, learn which European cities are the most densely packed and perfect for traveling on foot. LAST STOP: Ryan: https://www.travelawaits.com/3021526/most-walkable-cities-in-europe-from-new-study/ Kiernan: https://www.datarescueproject.org/save-our-signs-the-peoples-archive/
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New York Times Editor Stephen Hiltner on the "52 Places to Go in 2026"
This week on Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, Kiernan chats with Stephen Hiltner, the New York Times editor in charge of this year's "52 Places to Go in 2026." Stephen walks us through this year's top picks and themes. Here's what we cover in this episode: "52 Places to Go in 2026" https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2026/travel/places-to-travel-destinations-2026.html "Top 10 Reader Favorites from our '52 Places to Go' List" https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/13/travel/places-to-go-readers-picks.html
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Your First Trip To Madrid
Ryan's guide to a perfect Madrid weekend, whether Salvador Dalí is your thing or not. Museums, parks, palaces, and the restaurants you should avoid, with plenty of great food instead. Eat Here: https://www.instagram.com/gotawine/ https://www.instagram.com/marcelle_madrid/
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Christmas Spectacular Eight
On this year's Christmas Spectacular episode of Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, Kiernan and Ryan hang up their socks and trade merry greetings. They discuss the official death of the Ugly Ornament Competition, the history of British Christmas crackers (no, they're not crackers), and their favorite Christmas tunes (including a Ryan original).. And for the Anglophiles out there, the boys sing the praises of one of the US's best importers of British goods, happily located right in Acton, MA. Things we talked about in today's podcast: The Bee's Knees British Imports https://www.thebeeskneesbritishimports.com/ V&A Museum history of Christmas crackers https://www.vam.ac.uk/articles/the-christmas-cracker?srsltid=AfmBOopqIG_oE9tXOOtQdsUnnRHXaOH8bPLkOiNC52C9XAlXv0hzY_Kf "Have Yourself an Out of Office Christmas" https://www.mureka.ai/song-detail/WX3PuAjGnrbg8mx41mThs2?is_from_share=1 "Scrooge" from the Muppets https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULaNvmjZWxg
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Christmas Book Gift Recommendations 2025
This week, The Boys unwrap their favorite book picks for the holiday season — from globe-trotting history to wild presidential tales to the secret life of gas stations in the American South. They also dig into new national park surcharges for foreign visitors. The Books: "Lafayette in the Somewhat United States" by Sarah Vowell — https://www.amazon.com/Lafayette-Somewhat-United-States-Vowell/dp/0399573100 Amazon+1 "Bolívar: American Liberator" by Marie Arana — https://www.amazon.com/Bol%C3%ADvar-American-Liberator-Marie-Arana/dp/006073509X "The Magician" by Colm Tóibín — https://www.amazon.com/Magician-Novel-Colm-T%C3%B3ib%C3%ADn/dp/0307952879 "Wilderness Warrior: TR and the Crusade for America" by Douglas Brinkley — https://www.amazon.com/Wilderness-Warrior-Crusade-American-Brinkley/dp/0066210372 "Rightful Heritage: FDR and the Land for America" by Douglas Brinkley — https://www.amazon.com/Rightful-Heritage-America-Douglas-Brinkley/dp/0812980040 "Dead Presidents: An American Adventure into the Strange Deaths and Surprising Afterlives of Our Nation's Leaders" by Brady Carlson — https://www.amazon.com/Dead-Presidents-American-Surprising-Leaders/dp/1631493952
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Plymouth and the Mayflower II
On this episode of "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," Kiernan talks to Richard Stone, author of "Project Mayflower." Things we discussed on today's episode: "Project Mayflower" book https://bookshop.org/p/books/project-mayflower-building-and-sailing-a-seventeenth-century-replica-richard-a-stone/a3f94ee44f9babb4?ean=9781493084364&next=t&next=t&affiliate=books Plimoth Patuxet Museums https://plimoth.org/ Plymouth Rock https://seeplymouth.com/listing/plymouth-rock/ Pilgrim Hall Museum https://www.pilgrimhall.org/ Sail250 https://www.sailboston.com/sail250/ Green-Wood Cemetery New Yorker article https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2025/06/09/green-wood-cemeterys-living-dead
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Our Favorite Museum Heists
This week on the pod, the boys dive into their favorite museum heists, from Boston to Bogotá.
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Cruising Life with Royal Caribbean CEO Richard Fain
On this week's episode of "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast." Kiernan talks to Richard Fain who served as CEO of Royal Caribbean for 33 years. Richard and his team oversaw—and essentially invented—the evolution of the cruise ship industry from a niche business to a global behemoth. His new book "Delivering the WOW" gives the behind the scenes story, with tons of great tidbits (how do you build an ice rink on a ship?) and business advice. Things We Talk About on Today's Episode "Delivering the WOW" https://www.deliveringthewow.com/ Richard Fain https://www.deliveringthewow.com/about-richard Adrian McKinty https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adrian_McKinty Black Rabbit https://www.netflix.com/title/81630027 Crazy Horse Memorial https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/10/style/a-hike-to-crazy-horse-stirs-patriotism-and-doubt.html
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Theodore Roosevelt Sites
On this episode of "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," the boys discuss historic homes and parks related to Kiernan's favorite President, Theodore Roosevelt. Brace yourselves for high adventure—assassins, deadly predators, and poor eyesight. Things we discussed on today's episode: Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace https://www.nps.gov/thrb/index.htm American Museum of Natural History https://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/permanent/theodore-roosevelt-memorial/roosevelt-rotunda Sagamore Hill https://www.nps.gov/sahi/index.htm TR Gravesite https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-the-roosevelt-gravesite-at-young-s-cemetery.htm Theodore Roosevelt National Park https://www.nps.gov/thro/index.htm Upcoming Presidential Library https://www.trlibrary.com Theodore Roosevelt Island https://www.nps.gov/this/index.htm Architectural Digest Detroit https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/detroit-is-booming-and-its-a-must-visit-for-design-lovers
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6 Lesser Known Museums We Love
On this episode of Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast, Kiernan and Ryan travel the world over to share our favorite obscure museums. From Kuala Lumpur to Hartford, CT, we've got some surprises on this one. Things we talk about on this week's episode: Wadsworth Athenaeum https://www.thewadsworth.org/ Button Museum https://buttonmuseum.org/ Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Bogotá (MAC) https://museu.ms/museum/details/17154/museo-de-arte-contemporaneo-de-bogota Islamic Arts Museum https://iamm.org.my/ Museum of Socialist Art https://www.artandobject.com/articles/museum-socialist-art-bulgarias-de-facto-museum-communist-history Museum of Apiculture https://mro.si/en/musem-of-apiculture NYC School Architecture https://www.untappedcities.com/cbj-snyder-shools/?ref=daily-newsletter
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Detroit 201
On this episode of Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast, Kiernan loads up the family and heads to sunny Detroit. On our previous Detroit episode (Epi 153), we focused on the art and major tourist attractions, and this time around we hit up Detroit's surprisingly lovely nature (read: Belle Isle) and amazing local eats (read: Dearborn, MI.) Things we talk about on this week's episode: Saint Sebastian is a gay icon https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/stories/lgbt-artwork-marks-saint-sebastian-feast-day Basilica of Saint Sebastian Outside the Walls https://www.turismoroma.it/en/places/basilica-san-sebastiano-outside-walls Detroit 101 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/detroit-101/id1438098925?i=1000617683551 Detroit Riverfront https://www.detroitriverfront.org/ Cullen Family Carousel https://www.detroitriverfront.org/plan-your-visit/things-to-do/cullen-family-carousel-seasonal Belle Isle https://www.belleisleconservancy.org/ Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse http://detroithistorical.org/learn/online-research/encyclopedia-of-detroit/livingstone-memorial-lighthouse The Gothic Room https://www.detroithistorical.org/exhibitions/gothic-room James Scott Memorial Fountain https://historicdetroit.org/buildings/james-scott-memorial-fountain Halal Food Guru https://www.tiktok.com/@halalfoodguru Altayeb https://www.yelp.com/biz/altayeb-of-dearborn-dearborn Pupuseria https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Salvadoran&find_loc=Detroit%2C+MI Leila https://www.leiladetroit.com/ Detroit style pizza https://www.bonappetit.com/story/best-pizza-restaurants-detroit?srsltid=AfmBOooztxdpsnekr53gxRIgkbl654hgGtOqjTYgjNCaX1QnyzGizSbO Boston's Detroit Pizza Co https://www.dpcboston.com/s/order#most-popular Pie Sci https://piescipizza.com/ Ryan can't go to Singapore https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz60z98nzx7o
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Guatapé, Colombia
On this episode of Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast, Ryan takes us to Guatapé, Colombia, land of big rocks and little zócalos, with an interview with tour guide Oscar Lujan. Plus, Kiernan takes us back to London for a preview of The Darkest Hour: The Musical. Things we talk about on this week's episode: Oscar: https://www.instagram.com/medellinpeaks/ Ryan: https://www.instagram.com/p/DNbi4w4pQzI/?igsh=MWR0ZnczM2doczBxeg%3D%3D Kiernan: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/british-history-royals-rebels-and-romantics/id1516524780
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Festivals All Over The World
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," Kiernan chats with Daniel Stables, the author of the new book "Fiesta", which chronicles Daniel's journey around the world attending parties, shindigs, ceremonies, gatherings, jamborees, and other alluring functions! Things we talk about on this week's episode: "Fiesta" by Daniel Stables https://www.iconbooks.com/ib-title/fiesta/ Garcia Marquez laid to rest https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-36355670 Benjamin Pollock's Toy Shop https://www.pollocks-coventgarden.co.uk/
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Traveling with Children Part 1
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," a listener request! Kiernan offers tips, tricks, watch-outs, and must-dos when traveling with children. From gear to diversionary tactics, this is a must-listen for wanderlusty parents. Things we talk about on this week's episode: Anker external batteries https://www.anker.com/collections/power-banks Puro headphones https://purosound.com/ "America, América" https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/747326/america-america-by-greg-grandin/ "Fiesta" by Daniel Stables https://www.iconbooks.com/ib-title/fiesta/ Charlie's Place https://lnk.to/CharliesPlace-OutofOffice
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Souvenirs (Return Trip to Episode #8)
Ryan has been laid low with an exotic Mexican stomach bug, so this week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," the boys are revisiting an old favorite: a friendly chat about how to pick souvenirs that will powerfully evoke memories without powerfully draining your bank account. This one is a tried and true classic from the archive. Wish Ryan a steady recover with a 5-star review! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/out-of-office-a-travel-podcast/id1438098925
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First Trip to Rome (Part 2)
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," the boys continue their discussion of must-see museums, churches, and curiosities in Rome. Plus, you'll learn why cappuccinos are called that—and how they relate to rooms decorated with bones! Things We Talked About on Today's Episode: National Museum of Rome https://www.rome-museum.com/national-roman-museum.php Capitoline Museums http://museicapitolini.org/en/node Capuchin Crypt https://museoecriptacappuccini.it/en/the-crypt/ Cat Ruins https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/torre-argentina-roman-cat-sanctuary Bocca della Verita https://www.rome.net/mouth-of-truth Ostia Antica https://www.ostia-antica.org/ Trastevere https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trastevere Where to Travel Now…While You Can https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3b07NlIkKDc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5PAA3WIWtg New Giant Marble Head! https://x.com/gualtierieurope/status/1936334736198144396
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Your First Trip To Paris
Kiernan takes us to the City of Lights—Paris!—for a magical trip from French Impressionists to the gargoyles of Notre Dame. Plus, how to read stained glass like comic books and take home some museum-quality taxidermy. And Ryan reflects on the passing of Edmund White.
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Your First Trip To Paris
Kiernan takes us to the City of Lights—Paris!—for a magical trip from French Impressionists to the gargoyles of Notre Dame. Plus, how to read stained glass like comic books and take home some museum-quality taxidermy. And Ryan reflects on the passing of Edmund White.
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Last-Min Summer Trip Planning
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," the boys share their insider knowledge on how to lock down fantastic trips and deals even if you're a little late to the party. Hidden National Parks, secret city hideaways, and booking schemes await! Things We Talked About on Today's Episode: Julie Klausner https://foreverdogpodcasts.com/podcasts/how-was-your-week/ Boop the Musical https://boopthemusical.com/ North Cascades https://www.nps.gov/noca/index.htm Isle Royale https://www.nps.gov/isro/index.htm Great Sand Dunes https://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm Mesa Verde https://www.nps.gov/meve/index.htm Badlands https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Rapid City Sculptor episode https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/city-of-presidents-with-james-van-nuys/id1438098925?i=1000451011128 Canyonlands https://www.nps.gov/cany/index.htm Bear Ears National Monument https://www.blm.gov/visit/bears-ears-national-monument Great State Parks episode https://outofofficepod.com/podcast/episode-43-state-parks-with-peter-kujawinski/ Great State Parks NYT article https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/21/travel/state-parks-visit-colorado-nc-florida.html Google Flights "Explore" function https://www.google.com/travel/explore Skyscanner "Explore Everywhere" function https://www.skyscanner.com/transport/flights-from/us/?adultsv2=1&cabinclass=economy&childrenv2=&ref=home&rtn=1&preferdirects=false&outboundaltsenabled=false&inboundaltsenabled=false&oym=2507&iym=2507 AirBNB Experiences announcement https://news.airbnb.com/airbnb-2025-summer-release/ The Walker Library of the History of Human Imagination https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Library_of_the_History_of_Human_Imagination
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Romania 101
This week on Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, Ryan takes us to Romania—visiting Bucharest, Brașov, and Cluj-Napoca. Expect puppets, dictator mansions, and steampunk exhibits along the way. Things We Talked About In Today's Episode: - Ceaușescu Mansion https://timharford.com/2024/04/cautionary-tales-the-rise-and-fall-of-a-megalomaniac/ - Palace of the Parliament - "Dimitrie Gusti" National Village Museum - Carturesti Verona - The Puck Puppet Theater https://teatrulpuck.ro/?lang=en @tomiksz13 the puppeteer https://www.instagram.com/tomiksz13?
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First Trip to Rome (Part 1)
On this episode of Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast, the boys treat the ancient aqueducts like a flume ride and splash right into Rome! Kiernan and Ryan talk Emperors, SPQR, why columns make the best decor, plus just a touch of new Pope speculation. Our episode on Vatican City: https://outofofficepod.com/podcast/episode-197-vatican-city/ Things We Talked About on Today's Episode: "The Fall of Rome" podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-fall-of-rome-podcast/id1141563910 "SPQR" by Mary Beard https://a.co/d/71DS93Z "Roman Holiday" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rL5QxXF0g8 Colosseum https://colosseo.it/en/area/the-colosseum/ Forum https://colosseo.it/en/area/the-roman-forum/ Palatine Hill https://colosseo.it/en/area/the-palatine/ Pantheon https://www.pantheonroma.com/home-eng/ Borghese Gallery https://galleriaborghese.beniculturali.it/en/ Bath of Diocletian https://museonazionaleromano.beniculturali.it/en/baths-of-diocletian/ Trevi Fountain https://www.blacktomato.com/us/inspirations/the-history-of-romes-trevi-fountain/ Spanish Steps https://romesite.com/spanish-steps.html Catacombs of Saint Sebastian https://www.catacombe.org/ Lego Trevi Fountain https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/trevi-fountain-21062
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Rick Steves is BACK for Episode 200!
On this episode of "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," the boys celebrate the pod's 200th episode with travel icon Rick Steves! Kiernan chats with Rick about his latest book "On the Hippie Trail: Istanbul to Kathmandu and the Making of a Travel Writer" and about how keeping a journal can make one into a keener observer of culture. Rick's philosophy of travel is that if you haven't come back changed, you didn't do it right. This interview will leave you changed. Plus, a new artistic saint! Things we talked about in today's podcast: Rick Steves' Europe https://www.ricksteves.com/ Free scans of every page of Rick's journal https://www.ricksteves.com/about-rick/original-hippie-trail-journal Saint Gaudi! https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/14/world/europe/antoni-gaudi-architect-saint.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare Wanna help us celebrate 200? Leave a review (please)! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/out-of-office-a-travel-podcast/id1438098925 And a final note from Ryan and Kiernan: RIP POPE FRANCIS!
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Day Tripping from Santiago, Chile
On this episode of Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, Ryan takes us on three day trips from Santiago, Chile. First is Valparaíso, a coastal city known for its hills, historic funiculars, and street art. Then on to Valle de Colchagua, where wine tastings and a standout meal at Fuegos de Apalta make for a vino day. Finally, head to the Andes to soak in the mineral pools at Termas Valle de Colina. Plus, Kiernan talks about his old friend Corn Husker 55! Leave us a 5 Star Review! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/out-of-office-a-travel-podcast/id1438098925 Santiago Episode: https://outofofficepod.com/podcast/episode-194-santiago-chile/ The Hills: https://www.moon.com/travel/trip-ideas/the-hills-of-valparaiso-chile/ Restaurants: La Concepción & La Caperucita y el Lobo https://museobaburizza.cl/en/home/ Our wine tour provider: https://colchaguawinetours.com/
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Krakow, Poland
On this episode of Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast, the boys head to Krakow, the intellectual heart of Poland. The city is home to beautiful churches, endless Pope John Paul II memorabilia, one of the oldest universities in the world (Copernicus attended), and moving remembrances of Jewish citizens killed in the Holocaust. Plus, a quick detour to the historic Wieliczka Salt Mine. Things We Talked About on Today's Episode: Schengen Area: https://dailypassport.com/what-is-the-schengen-area/ Remains of the Ghetto wall https://g.co/kgs/ammrVVz Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory https://muzeumkrakowa.pl/en/branches/oskar-schindlers-enamel-factory MOCAK https://en.mocak.pl/ https://www.instagram.com/prosciuttko_/?hl=en
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170
Vatican City
On this episode of Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast, the boys Catholic out hard. In celebration of Lent, "Conclave," and a Catholic Jubilee Year, Kiernan talks us through the top sites to see in Vatican City. Rome is expecting 32M visitors this year, and now each and every one can listen to Out of Office! Things We Talked About on Today's Episode: Jubilee 2025 https://www.usccb.org/jubilee2025 Holy Doors https://www.ewtnvatican.com/articles/5-holy-doors-what-every-catholic-should-know-ahead-of-jubilee-2025-4075 Saint Peter's https://www.basilicasanpietro.va/en/ Pope John XXIII https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/martyrs-miracles-and-the-stuff-of-making-saints/ Vatican II https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2022-10/vatican-ii-council-60th-anniversary-video-history-background.html Papal Altar and Canopy https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Peter%27s_Baldachin Chair of Saint Peter https://www.ncregister.com/cna/historic-chair-of-st-peter-on-public-display-in-vatican-basilica-for-first-time-in-150-years Tomb of Saint Peter https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Peter%27s_tomb Saint Peter Statue https://stpetersbasilica.info/Statues/StPeter/StPeter.htm La Pieta https://fa-inkwell.org/1039/arts/artists-review-la-pieta-one-of-michelangelos-earliest-works/ Vatican Museums https://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html Laocoon and his Sons https://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en/collezioni/musei/museo-pio-clementino/Cortile-Ottagono/laocoonte.html Gallery of the Candelabra https://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en/collezioni/musei/museo-pio-clementino/Galleria-dei-Candelabri/galleria-dei-candelabri.html "School of Athens" https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_School_of_Athens Sistine Chapel "In Our Time" episode https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0015vh8 Sistine Chapel pre-reading https://www.througheternity.com/en/blog/art/michelangelo-last-judgment-sistine-chapel-vatican.html Omio https://www.omio.com/ Jenny Nicholson on the Star Wars Hotel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0CpOYZZZW4
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Berlin Museums
On this episode of Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast, Ryan offers an overview of Berlin's museums, highlighting a few of his favorites, from the story of Hitler's rise and fall in an underground bunker to contemporary art in an old train station. Plus, Kiernan talks about Boston.
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168
NYT Editor Stephen Hiltner on the "52 Places to Go in 2025"
This week on Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, Kiernan chats with Stephen Hiltner, the New York Times editor in charge of this year's "52 Places to Go in 2025." Stephen talks about some highlights from this year's selections, plus a few spots that didn't quite make the cut. Here's what we cover in this episode: "52 Places to Go in 2025" https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/travel/places-to-travel-destinations-2025.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare
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167
Santiago, Chile
This week on Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, Ryan takes us south to Santiago, Chile, where he rides up a funicular and down a cable car to see the Virgin Mary. Plus, eating barnacles and flying out of Kafka Airport. The Month In Digital (Ryan's Marketing Newsletter): https://monthindigital.substack.com/ Kafka Airport: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DC2AdoIM1DD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link Restaurants: Peumayén Ancestral Food Sanguchería Ciudad Vieja The Singular Santiago's Rooftop Bocanáriz Boragó
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166
Skiing for the Skeptical
This week on Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, the boys talk about their holiday breaks and discuss why ski trips are well-worth the expense and steep learning curve. Plus, Ryan has a onesie! Here's what we cover in this episode: NYT on European Skiing https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/19/travel/europe-skiing-budget.html Beaver Creek https://www.beavercreek.com/ Cannon Mountain in New Hampshire https://www.cannonmt.com/tickets
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165
Christmas Spectacular Seven
This week on Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, the boys celebrate the season with discussions of the Immaculate Conception (it's not what Ryan thinks), an idea for holiday film commentaries yet to come, and the LAST Ugly Ornament contest. And another year passes without seeing pictures of the Nativity Ryan's father painstakingly carved from a single block of wood. Here's what we cover in this episode: Debora https://www.instagram.com/deborarest/?hl=en LATAM 50 Best Restaurants https://www.theworlds50best.com/latinamerica/en/ "White Christmas" movie https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Christmas_(film) Day of the Little Candles https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Day_of_the_Little_Candles Reba McEntire "Christmas Guest" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57fS-9kGZqU Jimmy Fallon "Chipmunks and Chestnuts" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CChx2qVNl0 Kiernan's Ugly Ornament for Ryan https://johnderian.com/products/mushroom-person-ornament?srsltid=AfmBOoqJ58ABMzRZ1iiMibeH0zVvGJn3ZumEEEhUAHIicz2ZfBsFIk4T Ryan's Ugly Ornament for Kiernan https://www.etsy.com/listing/1814317312/bespoke-funny-prank-xmaschristmas?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=ugly+ornament&ref=sr_gallery-1-9&pro=1&pop=1&content_source=fde4cc23f7c035e7d3ac14a1cd6a7a4bf6a9e3ed%253A1814317312&search_preloaded_img=1&organic_search_click=1
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164
Monterrey, Mexico
This week on Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, Ryan recaps his recent trip to Monterrey, Mexico, covering highlights from the scenic River Walk to an interactive steel museum. He also shares a wild story about a run-in with a bribery-seeking cop in Puerto Vallarta. Here's what we cover in this episode: https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-places-to-go-2025-8739580
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163
Star Wars Museum Creator Steve Sansweet
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," Kiernan talks with one of the greatest Star Wars collectors of all time: Steve Sansweet. Steve is the founder of Rancho Obi-Wan, the largest collection of Star Wars memorabilia in the world. Located in Petaluma CA, the museum is open for public tours, but be sure to pre-book. And if it all goes according to plan, soon Rancho Obi-Wan will be joining forces with 3 other top collections to become the brand-new Saga Museum. Things we talk about in this week's episode: Saga Museum https://ranchoobiwan.org/new-saga-museum-to-celebrate-legacy-of-star-wars-fandom/ Steve Sansweet Bio https://ranchoobiwan.org/board/ Rancho Obi-Wan https://ranchoobiwan.org/ Ralph McQuarrie https://www.iamag.co/star-wars-the-art-of-ralph-angus-mcquarrie-100-concept-art/ Head Man Action Figure https://ranchoobiwan.org/ Lucas Museum of Narrative Art https://lucasmuseum.org/ Last Star Wars episode https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/out-of-office-a-travel-podcast/id1438098925?i=1000581538592 Britannic Explorer https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/12/travel/brittanic-explorer-belmond-train-luxury/index.html Lidar-delivers again! https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/02/world/americas/maya-city-mexico.html
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162
Being a Woman Airline Pilot in the 1980s with Stephanie Wallach
In this episode of Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, Ryan talks with Stephanie Wallach, one of the first women to break into the world of commercial aviation in America. Plus, Kiernan faces an unfortunate bout of gate lice. Follow Along On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ooopodcast/ Things We Talked About In This Week's Episode: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/23/business/american-airlines-line-cutters.html https://www.newyorker.com/humor/daily-shouts/welcome-aboard
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161
Graveyards
On this episode of Out of Office: A Travel Podcast, the boys embrace Spooktober by sharing their favorite graveyards. Plus, there's an update on friend of the pod Rick Steves' health and some Boston travel tips from Kiernan. Things We Talked About In This Week's Episode: UPDATE RICK STEVES HEALTH https://x.com/ricksteves/status/1843844907833950542?s=46 Our Share Of The Night By Mariana Enriquez https://www.amazon.com/Our-Share-Night-Mariana-Enriquez/dp/0451495144
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160
Secrets of a Modern-Day Travel Agent
In this episode, Ryan chats with Rory, a travel agent, about why people still use agents in 2024 and what it's like booking tickets for Andrew Scott. Plus, Kiernan talks about his new job as a Boston tour guide. Things We Talked About In This Week's Episode: Last Stop Ryan: https://www.businessinsider.com/avoid-visa-mistake-no-middle-name-almost-ruined-trip Kiernan: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/09/27/world/europe/westminster-abbey-bronte-plaque-accent-marks.html
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159
Travelin' Music
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," Kiernan and Ryan chat about the deep connections between music and travel, including how a well-chosen song can be the ideal souvenir. They also dig into how much Ryan prepares for each episode. Plus, Norwegian Children's Music! Things we talk about in this week's episode: Rick Steves endorses Kamala: https://thehill.com/blogs/in-the-know/4878714-rick-steves-endorses-harris/ Travel therapy https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/09/240905121025.htm "Earth Room' https://www.diaart.org/visit/visit-our-locations-sites/walter-de-maria-the-new-york-earth-room-new-york-united-states/
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158
El Salvador 101
This week on the pod, Ryan takes us to El Salvador, the land of volcanoes and Bitcoin. Hear about how he almost made it inside a beautiful church and his visit to Hermit Island. Plus, what was the miniature controversy at the Kentucky State Fair? LAST STOP Ryan: https://nypost.com/2024/08/23/us-news/kentucky-state-fair-removes-ribbon-winning-miniature-after-realizing-it-depicted-a-porn-set/ Kiernan: https://www.travelandleisure.com/hotels-resorts/vacation-rentals/most-unique-airbnb-stay-every-us-state
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157
What is a Museum Hotel?
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," Kiernan chats with Sarah Robbins, the COO of 21C Museum Hotels, a unique chain that combines modern art and comfortable accommodations. They talk through what it takes to run both a thriving hospitality business AND a compelling art operation. Plus, Things we talk about in this week's episode: "North to Alaska" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoqVPcXDtUs 21C Museum Hotel https://www.21cmuseumhotels.com/ New UNESCO World Heritage Sites https://www.euronews.com/culture/2024/08/02/a-roman-road-sand-dunes-and-gold-mines-these-are-the-24-new-unesco-world-heritage-sites-fo Dems whipping airlines into shape https://www.npr.org/2024/08/01/g-s1-14662/airline-junk-fees-family-seating-dot
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156
The Hamptons
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," the boys put on their finest yacht-wear and head to that enclave of the rich and famous, The Hamptons. Kiernan talks about what exactly "The Hamptons" refers to, logistics of exploring there as a tourist, and a few cultural treasures hidden out among the seaside mansions. Things we talk about in this week's episode: Hamptons Jitney https://www.hamptonjitney.com/hjmobile/ Surf Lodge https://thesurflodge.com/ Montauk Point Lighthouse https://montaukhistoricalsociety.org/montauk-point-lighthouse/ Coopers Beach https://www.discoverlongisland.com/listing/coopers-beach/1047/ Parrish Art Museum https://parrishart.org/ Pollock-Krasner House https://artistshomes.org/site/pollock-krasner-house-and-study-center Green River Cemetery https://greenrivercemetery.org/ Museo Cacao https://museocacao.com/ Palmero's Breaththrough Saint https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/03/world/europe/palermo-catholic-saint-hindu-pantheon.html Buy "Secret Boston: An Unusual Guide" https://bookshop.org/p/books/secret-boston-an-unusual-guide-kiernan-schmitt/21037780?ean=9782361957179 https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Boston-Unusual-Guide-guides/dp/2361957175
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155
"Secret Boston" with Kiernan Schmitt
This week Ryan welcomes his favorite author Kiernan Schmitt to talk about Kiernan's new guidebook "Secret Boston: An Unusual Guide." The book is a part of Jonglez Publishing's "Secret" series, which specializes in historical oddities and way off-the-beaten-path sites fit for locals and enterprising tourists both! Things we talk about in this week's episode: Buy "Secret Boston: An Unusual Guide" https://bookshop.org/p/books/secret-boston-an-unusual-guide-kiernan-schmitt/21037780?ean=9782361957179 https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Boston-Unusual-Guide-guides/dp/2361957175 Secret series: https://jonglezpublishing.com/product-category/secret-guides/ Our interview with Thomas Jonglez https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/travel-book-publisher-thomas-jonglez/id1438098925?i=1000454443728 North End Library Venice Miniature https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/diorama-of-venetian-palace The Dutch House https://www.redfin.com/MA/Brookline/20-Netherlands-Rd-02445/home/11461795 Arlington Street Church Tiffany Window https://www.ascboston.org/about/building.html Neon Williams https://neonwilliams.com/ Forest Hills Cemetery "Neighbors" by Christopher Frost https://www.christopherfrost.org/#/neighbors2006/ The Dodecagonal House https://www.bostonpreservation.org/news-item/my-boston-home-dragon-jp Jumbo's Ashes at Tufts https://now.tufts.edu/2014/09/22/glory-was-jumbo BC Labyrinth https://www.bc.edu/bc-web/sites/memorial-labyrinth.html Dorchester Historic Brick Collection https://www.dorchesterhistoricalsociety.org/exhibits Greenway Carousel https://www.boston.com/uncategorized/noprimarytagmatch/2013/08/31/greenway-carousel-grand-opening/ Puppet Free Library https://puppetco-op.org/libraries.htm Climate Change and Turbulence https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/climate-change-is-making-airplane-turbulence-more-common-and-severe-scientists-say-180984440/ Revere Sand Sculpting Festival https://www.internationalsandsculptingfestival.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Gg7pYzzTUk Ponyhenge https://www.bostonglobe.com/2023/05/02/opinion/ponyhenge-elizabeth-graver/
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154
First Trip to Chicago
Pop! Squish! Six! Uh-Oh! Cicero! Lipschitz! On this episode of "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," the boys talk about one of their favorite cities in the US: Chicago! Perched on Lake Michigan, the city offers stellar food, world-class art and natural history, and a number of easy-to-find hidden wonders. Things we talk about in this week's episode: Chicago Architecture Tour https://www.architecture.org/tours/detail/chicago-architecture-center-river-cruise-aboard-chicago-s-first-lady/ Tiffany Dome at Chicago Cultural Center https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_culturalcenter-tiffanydome.html Millennium Park https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/millennium_park.html The Bean https://millenniumparkfoundation.org/art-architecture/cloud-gate/ Buckingham Fountain https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/clarence-f-buckingham-memorial-fountain Crown Fountain https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_s_publicartcrownfountaininmillenniumpark.html Wrigley Field https://www.mlb.com/cubs/ballpark Field Museum https://www.fieldmuseum.org/ Art Institute of Chicago https://www.artic.edu/ Thorne Miniatures https://www.artic.edu/highlights/12/thorne-miniature-rooms Robie House https://flwright.org/tour/robie-house Hogsalt https://www.hogsalt.com/ Chicago-Style Hot Dogs https://www.bonappetit.com/story/best-hot-dogs-chicago Chicago Pizza https://chicago.eater.com/maps/best-chicago-pizza-restaurants Roadside America https://www.roadsideamerica.com/ "Footnotes from the Most Fascinating Museums" by Bob Eckstein https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/18/travel/museum-guide-bob-eckstein-illustrator.html
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153
Louisville, Kentucky
On this episode of "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," the boys luxuriate in Louisville. From exploring hidden walkways to throwing back some bourbon—plus a quick stop to honor The Colonel—Ryan and Kiernan are officially Kentucky converts. Things we talk about in this week's episode: 21C Museum Hotel https://www.21cmuseumhotels.com/louisville/ The Brown Hotel https://www.brownhotel.com/ The Hot Brown https://www.gotolouisville.com/blog/hot-brown/ Louisville Historic Tours https://louisvillehistorictours.com/ Conrad-Caldwell House https://www.conradcaldwell.org/ Louisville's Olmsted Parks https://louisvilleky.gov/government/louisville-loop/olmsted-parkways Cave Hill Cemetery https://www.cavehillcemetery.com/ Belle of Louisville Riverboat https://www.belleoflouisville.org/ Louisville Slugger Museum https://www.sluggermuseum.com/ Frazier History Museum https://www.fraziermuseum.org/ Speed Art Museum https://www.speedmuseum.org/ Proof on Main https://proofonmain.com/ The Silver Dollar https://www.whiskeybythedrink.com/ 610 Magnolia https://610magnolia.com/ Garage Bar https://garageonmarket.com/ Butchertown Grocery Bakery https://www.gotolouisville.com/directory/butchertown-grocery-bakery/ Chik'n & Mi https://www.chiknandmi.com/ Muth's Candies https://muthscandy.com/ Mile Wide Beer Co. https://milewidebeer.com/
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152
Mammoth Cave National Park
On this episode of "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," the boys put on their hard hats, light their lanterns, and head underground! Ryan and Kiernan are fresh back from Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky—the largest cave system in the world! They have tales to tell about secret subterranean rivers, folksy rangers, and gypsum flowers that take eons to grow. Things we talk about in this week's episode: Mammoth Cave National Park https://www.nps.gov/maca/index.htm The Cave Wars https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/the-kentucky-cave-wars.htm Stephen Bishop https://www.nps.gov/people/stephen-bishop.htm George Morrison https://www.nps.gov/people/george-morrison.htm Floyd Collins https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/tragedy-at-sand-cave.htm Frozen Niagra https://www.nps.gov/media/photo/gallery.htm?id=335A7FB9-AA3A-4D2E-A446-C2F15F29DE5E Historical Tour https://www.nps.gov/media/photo/gallery.htm?id=3CDB5B65-5954-49BB-A2FE-AEA32F56FC03 Gothic Avenue Tour https://www.greatamericanhikes.com/post/gothic-avenue-tour-in-mammoth-cave-national-park Grand Avenue Tour https://www.alittletour.com/2017/06/01/grand-avenue-tour-mammoth-cave-kentucky/ All Tours https://www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/cave-tours.htm Book Tours here https://recreation.gov/ticket/facility/234640 Cave City https://cavecity.com/ Wigwam Village https://historicwigwamvillage.com/
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151
Richmond, Virginia (Return Trip)
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," we revisit the November 2022 episode on Richmond, Virginia. It was Ryan and Kiernan's first overnight trip together (staying in separate hotels, of course)! They discuss museums, historic homes, graves, Presidents, and plenty about the Civil War. They also share their restaurant recommendations and uncover a standout hidden treasure in a National Park! The American Civil War Museum https://acwm.org/ Virginia Museum of Fine Arts https://vmfa.museum John Marshall House https://preservationvirginia.org/historic-sites/john-marshall-house/ Hollywood Cemetery https://www.hollywoodcemetery.org/ Maggie Walker House https://www.nps.gov/mawa/index.htm Society of Cincinnati https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Society_of_the_Cincinnati Virginia State Capitol http://virginiacapitol.gov/index.php/tours/ Statue of George Washington https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statue_of_George_Washington_(Houdon) James Madison's Montpelier https://www.montpelier.org/ Paul Jennings https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Jennings_(slave) Eater's Richmond List https://dc.eater.com/maps/best-bars-restaurants-bakeries-richmond-dining-guide Barcode https://www.barcoderva.com/ Triple Crossing Brewery https://triplecrossing.com/ Emily Dickinson's House https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/28/arts/design/emily-dickinson-museum-renovation.html
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Out of Office is a travel podcast hosted by us, Ryan Davis and Kiernan Schmitt. From early childhood, we were each infected with a serious case of wanderlust (among other things.) We define travel broadly, from local day trips to high-flyin' overseas adventures. Every episode, we dig into one topic—ranging from the serious to the silly, the practical to the outlandish—and give advice on how to get out there and explore the world.
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