The Frommer's Travel Show
The Frommer's Travel Show

The Frommer's Travel Show

Pauline Frommer

Overview
Episodes

Details

Since the 1957 publication of Arthur Frommer's (1929-2024) seminal Europe on $5 a Day, the Frommer guidebooks have been America's most trusted travel source. This podcast, hosted by Arthur Frommer's daughter, and President of FrommerMedia LLC, Pauline Frommer, gives listeners the low down on what's happening in the world of travel today. Topics range from the most appealing destinations, to money-saving and enjoyment-enhancing trends, to books and TV shows that bring travel into your daily life, and more. Expect guest appearances by some of the biggest names in travel today, including Samantha Brown, Andrew McCarthy, Frances Mayes, Jason Cochran, travel journalists from the New York Times, the Washington Post, and other publications.

Recent Episodes

On the Road: Berlin and Utrecht
DEC 7, 2025
On the Road: Berlin and Utrecht

From her hotel room in Utrecht, Pauline Frommer talked with Frommers.com's Editor In Chief Jason Cochran about her adventures in that Dutch hotspot, and her just concluded visit to Germany's capital.

Links referenced in this episode:


Companies and Attractions mentioned in this episode:

  • Melt the Band
  • Cafe Frida
  • Alchemist Club
  • Gamalde Gallery
  • Neue Museum
  • Tivoli Vredenburg
  • DDR Museum
  • Brandenburg Gate
  • Reichstag
  • Checkpoint Charlie

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36 MIN
Tours for People Who Don't Want to Be "Tourists", Plus a Deep Dive Into the Spiritual Life of Japan
NOV 30, 2025
Tours for People Who Don't Want to Be "Tourists", Plus a Deep Dive Into the Spiritual Life of Japan

New York Times writer Jonathan Zwickel discussed his recent article about tours that uncover the political and economic forces that are shaping life in Athens, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro, and other important cities. Then Hiroko Yoda discussed her illuminating book about Japanese traditions, religious practices and life "Eight Million Ways to Happiness: Wisdom for Inspiration and Healing from the Heart of Japan.

Takeaways:

  • Zwickel recounts his experience of wandering through an Athens neighborhood, revealing the urban decay and struggles faced by locals.
  • We discuss the importance of ethical tourism, emphasizing the need for respectful engagement with local communities and their histories.
  • The podcast highlights the emergence of social and political walking tours as a means to provide deeper insights into the realities of city life and its challenges.
  • Additionally, we examine how these tours can serve as an antidote to overtourism by redistributing visitor traffic to underappreciated areas.
  • In the second half Yoda discusses the interplay between different religious traditions in the temples of Japan; how she came to find Shinto teachings helpful while grieving the loss of her parents; and a the story behind a famous mound in Tokyo, that has a surprising history.

Links referenced in this episode:


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39 MIN
Amelia Earhart: Founder of the Modern Travel Industry? Plus a Look at Why She Disappeared
NOV 23, 2025
Amelia Earhart: Founder of the Modern Travel Industry? Plus a Look at Why She Disappeared

Laurie Gwen Shapiro, author of the new book "The Aviator and the Showman: Amelia Earhart, George Putnam and the Marriage That Made an American Icon" was today's guest. She discussed how Earhart shaped how we travel today, why she is still such a potent role model, and what happened to her on her final flight.

Takeaways:

  • The contemporary travel industry owes much of its development to the pioneering efforts of early aviators, particularly Amelia Earhart, who significantly influenced public perception of air travel.
  • Laurie Gwen Shapiro's book, 'The Aviator and the Amelia Earhart,' delves into the intricate relationship between Amelia Earhart and her husband, George Putnam, showcasing their collaborative efforts.
  • Amelia Earhart's role as an ambassador for aviation was crucial in promoting air travel to women, thereby helping to establish the industry as a viable mode of transportation.
  • The podcast highlights the complexities surrounding Amelia Earhart's legacy, suggesting that her ambitious nature and calculated risks played a significant role in her untimely demise.
  • Listeners are encouraged to explore the nuances of Amelia Earhart's final flight by listening to tapes of those who know her, available on the Smithsonian website.

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34 MIN
Best Places to Go in 2026, Part 3
NOV 16, 2025
Best Places to Go in 2026, Part 3

In our final installment of our series on the best destinations for 2026, Pauline Frommer, Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson discussed Palawan in the Philippines, Portugal's Algarve region, Chicago, Adelaide in Australia and Vienna, Austria.

To see our Best Places to Go in 2026 photo-rich article, go to Frommers.com/BestPlaces2026.

Takeaways:

  • In 2026, Chicago will be a prominent travel destination due to the opening of the Obama Presidential Center, which is expected to significantly reshape the community.
  • Vienna is poised to attract visitors with a plethora of cultural events, including the 250th anniversary of the Burgtheater and the reopening of the Museum of Folk Life and Folk Art.
  • Palawan in the Philippines is becoming increasingly popular, particularly due to its stunning natural beauty and the upcoming film set to draw attention to the region.
  • The Algarve region of Portugal will feature direct transatlantic flights in 2026, making its beautiful beaches and rich history more accessible to American tourists.
  • Adelaide, Australia, is experiencing a renaissance with new direct flights, making it easier for travelers to explore its vibrant arts scene and natural beauty.
  • The year 2026 promises to be exceptional for travel as various destinations celebrate significant anniversaries and cultural events that will enhance the visitor experience.

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31 MIN
The Best Places to Go in 2026, Part 2
NOV 9, 2025
The Best Places to Go in 2026, Part 2

Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson, joined Pauline Frommer to discuss the destinations that will be particularly vacation-worthy in 2026. Today's show covered Peru, Jasper (Alberta, Canada), Hot Springs (Arkansas), Viti Levu (Fiji), Costa Navarino (Greece), and the United States' 250th birthday celebration venues. To see the complete list go to Frommers.com/bestplaces2026.

Takeaways:

  • In our discussion, we emphasized that Peru offers far more than just Machu Picchu, highlighting its diverse attractions.
  • The recent political unrest in Peru has affected tourism, necessitating a focus on alternative destinations within the country.
  • We introduced Costa Navarino in Greece as an emerging travel destination, providing a unique cultural experience without the usual tourist crowds.
  • The Rocky Mountaineer Train's new Jasper to Banff route presents an opportunity to explore the stunning Canadian Rockies conveniently and luxuriously.
  • Viti Levu in Fiji is becoming more accessible to North American travelers, enriching its cultural landscape with a mix of influences.
  • The United States will celebrate its 250th anniversary with nationwide events that promote historical education and civic engagement.

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31 MIN