The Frommer's Travel Show

Frommer's Comfort in the Wild is Out Now. A Talk with Its Author Jane Wooldridge

Jane Wooldridge, author of the recently released coffee table book "Frommer's Comfort in the Wild: 100+ Idyllic Nature Destinations—No Roughing It Required" is our guest today. She delves into how to pick the right expedition cruise, where the most beautiful treehouse hotels are, what it's like to stay in a geodesic dome, and how ranch vacations can put you in touch with American history.(This is part 1 of a 2 part interview about the book.)Takeaways:The podcast introduces a new coffee table book titled 'Frommer's Comfort in the Wild', which features over one hundred idyllic nature destinations.Jane Wooldridge, the book's author, emphasizes the importance of experiencing nature for health and well beingThe podcast discusses the evolution of expedition cruises, highlighting their increased comfort and accessibility over recent years.Listeners are encouraged to explore different types of travel experiences, such as treehouse hotels, geodesic dome stays, winery stays, and ranch vacations.The episode concludes with a promise of a part two, as there are many more intriguing travel destinations to explore.Companies mentioned in this episode:Frommer'sMiami HeraldSociety of American Travel WritersNational Geographic ExplorerLindblad ExpeditionsClear Sky Bryce CanyonSeabourn CruisesLone Mountain Ranch

What's New in New York City, Plus a Look at the Top Trends in Camping Vacations

Pauline Frommer discussed her newly released guidebook "Frommer's New York City 2026" and what the top culinary trends in the city are right now. She also talked about what it's like to visit NYC's newest observation deck, and how The Studio Museum, Sotheby's and The Jewish Museum have reinvented themselves. Then Kevin Long, CEO of TheDyrt.com, talked about how many new campers there were in 2025, what people can do when there's no room at the campsite, and how this form of vacation is evolving.Takeaways:The latest edition of Frommer's New York City guidebook was released this fall, highlighting recent changes and attractions in the city.New York City has exciting new attractions and revamped iconic sites.The introduction of a new observation deck in Times Square offers unique nighttime views.A number of new high-end Caribbean restaurants and innovative wine bars are reshaping the city's culinary scene..Over half of campers had difficulty finding room at their first choice campgrounds in 2025Companies, products and websites mentioned in this episode:Frommer's New York City 2026Frommers.comSwarovski CrystalOne Times SquareThe Jewish MuseumThe Studio Museum of HarlemSotheby'sThe DyrtToyota TrucksHa's Snack BarSunn's Wine BarKabawaLei Wine Bar (this is the name of the restaurant Pauline couldn't remember)

Montana's State Parks and Rodeo Culture, Plus a Look at When To Visit Yellowstone National Park

Patrick Doyle, from Visit Montana, discussed the ghost towns, badlands, and Native American sights found in Big Sky Country's state parks. He also discussed why rodeos are such a fun lens into the state's culture and traditions, and when is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park.Takeaways:Montana is characterized by vast landscapes and a relatively low population density, which affects visitor experiences.The state has numerous historical sites, including Fort Owen and St. Mary's Mission, which tell of the state's early days.Bannock State Park, a well-preserved ghost town, offers a unique glimpse into Montana's past as the first territorial capital.The Bitterroot Valley is rich in history and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking adventure.Companies and destinations mentioned in this episode:Yellowstone National ParkMontanaBillingsBozemanMissoulaDarbyFort OwenSt. Mary's MissionMakoshakea State ParkMedicine Rock State ParkCarter County MuseumBannock State ParkMontana State UniversityWestern Montana CollegeNorth American Indian DaysCrow FairWild Horse Stampede

Secrets of Airport Lounges

Zach Helfand, author of "Airport-Lounge Wars: When you’re waiting for a flight, what’s the difference between out there and in here?" in the New Yorker Magazine discussed his quirky quest to visit every lounge in the New York area.Takeaways:Zach Helfand's article discusses the evolution of airport lounges from exclusive clubs to more accessible spaces, and the impact of credit card partnerships.Lounges have transformed the airport experience by providing amenities such as truly gourmet food, showers, sleep pods, private security screening and more.During the COVID-19 pandemic, airlines relied heavily on their credit card partnerships, which have proven to be more valuable than traditional ticket sales in sustaining their businesses.The luxurious offerings of international lounges often greatly surpass those found in the United States.Companies mentioned in this episode:American AirlinesAdmirals ClubDelta AirlinesUnited AirlinesAmerican ExpressChaseChase ExplorerUnited ExplorerDelta OnePriority PassAir FranceDanny MeyerShake ShackGramercy TavernAlaine Ducasse

Vietnam Revisited: Insights from a Second Trip

Pauline Frommer and Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran discussed Pauline's second trip to Vietnam, which was just completed. Takeaways:The host emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation, particularly regarding visa applications, as a critical aspect of international travel.The episode highlights the cultural richness of Vietnam, including indigenous tribes and their fascinating customs, which the host explored during the trip.The discussion includes reflections on the modern tourism industry in Vietnam, noting both advancements and the potential for inauthentic tourist experiences.The host's experience at a dark restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City serves as a metaphor for broader themes of accessibility and culinary expectations in travel.