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  • Unpacked Minis, Five Questions: For Some of the World’s Most Exciting Wines, Travel to Mexico

    Unpacked Minis, Five Questions: For Some of the World’s Most Exciting Wines, Travel to Mexico
    2025/05/09
    Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a new series where we go behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this inaugural episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with award-winning writer Anya von Bremzen to discuss her journey through Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico's exciting wine region just two hours from San Diego, which she wrote about in Afar's spring issue. Von Bremzen, a James Beard Award-winning culinary writer who recently published National Dish in 2023, shares why this area is the fascinating "anti-Napa" and worth the bumpy ride. On this episode you'll learn: Why Valle de Guadalupe is emerging as one of North America's most exciting wine regions How the region's lack of established traditions is fostering incredible creativity Why female winemakers are flourishing in this innovative Mexican wine country What makes the region's difficult access part of its charm and protection Don't miss these moments: [04:12] Why "bad roads make good tourists" according to local winemakers [05:05] Anya's favorite natural wines from the region, including an amber sauvignon blanc called "La Poubelle" (trash can) [08:20] The surprising prevalence of women winemakers in a traditionally patriarchal country [10:15] How Valle de Guadalupe's freedom from tradition allows for experimental winemaking that would "make Europeans faint" Featured in this episode: Lunario - Michelin green-sustainability-star restaurant Silvana Pijoan - Natural winemaker of La Poubelle amber sauvignon blanc at Pijoan Winery Veronica Santiago - Winemaker at Mina Penelope Winery Lulú Martínez Ojeda - Winemaker at Bruma who trained in Bordeaux David Castro Hussong - Chef at Bruma Karina Campos - Guide from Baja Wine, Eat and Travel Resources: Read Anya's complete feature story on Valle de Guadalupe in AFAR's 2025 Culture issue. Explore more of Anya's work in her 2023 book National Dish, which examines iconic dishes from Paris, Tokyo, Istanbul, and beyond. Follow Anya on Instagram and Twitter for more culinary explorations. Join host Katherine LaGrave in two weeks for a conversation with AFAR contributing writer Bonnie Tsui about her journey to Guangzhou, China, and her new book, On Muscle. Follow AFAR Media on Instagram and TikTok @AfarMedia. Subscribe, rate, and review Unpacked, Five Questions on your favorite podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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    17 分
  • Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition: The Culinary Trends Shaping the Way We Eat at Sea

    Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition: The Culinary Trends Shaping the Way We Eat at Sea
    2025/05/08
    In 2025, wellness is the main ingredient at sea. From elaborate tea houses to shopping excursions with the chef—these are the fresh ways that cruise lines are shedding their overindulgent reputations. On this episode of Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition, host Aislyn Greene sits down at F&B@Sea—the culinary showcase at Miami's Seatrade Cruise Global conference—with David Yeskel, a travel and food journalist who has covered cruising for 20 years. Together they uncover the most surprising—and delicious—trends shaping what we eat at sea. On this episode you’ll learn: Why cruise lines are embracing plant-based menus—and what that means for travelers. How sourcing local ingredients works (and why small ships are able to lead the way). The ways that shoreline dining trends are making their way aboard cruise lines. Don’t miss these moments: [02:48] Why swapping bars for tea houses is on trend in 2025. [05:25] Unique and inclusive food options at every level of the industry. [08:11] Sourcing local food? Sometimes it means taking travelers shopping with the chef. Featured in this episode: Virgin Voyages MSC Cruises Carnival Cruise Line Holland America Line Celebrity Princess Oceania Viking Cruises Azamara Cruises Explora Journeys Seabourn Cruises Celestyal Cruises Cunard Resources: Read the transcript of this episode. Explore more of David’s work on his website or follow him on LinkedIn. Listen to other Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition, like this one about innovations or this one about finding a cruise travel advisor. Looking for more content from Seatrade Global? Check out our sister podcast View From Afar, by the travel industry for the travel industry.
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    20 分
  • Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition: The Five Innovations You’ll See on Your Next Cruise Ship

    Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition: The Five Innovations You’ll See on Your Next Cruise Ship
    2025/05/01
    Peek into the colorful, immersive, and luxurious innovations shaping the future of cruising—straight from the floor of Seatrade Cruise Global, one of the cruise industry's most important events. From flying theaters to floating pickleball courts, this episode of Unpacked Minis, Cruise Edition takes you behind-the-scenes of the surprising sights (and smells) making waves in cruising. The luxury innovations taking cruises and yachts to the next level. How cruise ships utilize technology to create immersive experiences for guests Which innovations were revealed on the floor of Seatrade 2025. Don’t miss these moments: [02:30] Bike the Great Wall of China on your next cruise. [03:54] The sights and smells that a cruise ships bottle up. [08:33] Party-banas and a floating pickleball court. [11:57] What does pouring resin on a bear have to do with eco-cruising? [15:46] Behind the scenes of Disney Cruises’ immersive experiences. Special Thanks To: DOF Robotics Froggy's Fog Aquabanas Bolidt Zenko and HF Interior Resources: Read the transcript of this episode. Explore other Unpacked cruise content, like this episode about sustainable cruising, or this one about finding the right cruise for you. Follow Afar for all the ⁠cruise news⁠ you need to know.
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    24 分
  • I Traveled Through 300 Years of Kyoto's History—All From One Hotel

    I Traveled Through 300 Years of Kyoto's History—All From One Hotel
    2025/04/24
    With just five years under it's belt, Hotel the Mitsui has already stood the test of time. Housed in the former estate of one of Japan's most influential families, this five-star hotel is full of details that help guests see the rich traditions of Kyoto with a fresh pair of eyes. In this “If These Walls Could Talk” episode of Unpacked, Aislyn Greene takes you on a tour of the stories—and secrets—that a hotel can reveal about the places we visit. On this episode you’ll learn: What it’s like to stay at Hotel the Mitsui, one of Japan’s most luxurious and historic hotels. The ways that interior architect Andre Fu collaborated with local artisans to bring guests an intimate journey through Kyoto culture. How Japanese tea ceremony traditions have evolved over time. Don’t miss these moments: [03:24] Step into a mystical journey through time. [11:39] What do samurai, monks, and matcha have in common? [19:43] Intimate and local: How artisans nod to the soul of Kyoto Resources: Read the full transcript. Book a stay at Hotel the Mitsui or follow their Instagram. Check out Andre Fu's work on his website. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **
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    27 分
  • “Nobody Knows We’re Here.” Inside the Real D.C.

    “Nobody Knows We’re Here.” Inside the Real D.C.
    2025/04/18
    This isn’t Washington, it’s D.C.—and it belongs to the people. On this episode of Unpacked, join host Aislyn Greene as she meets the D.C. locals who are shaping the city. They share the diverse communities, places, and histories that make the district unique. From a blossoming food scene to thriving cultural legacies, discover the D.C. that most tourists miss. In this episode, you’ll learn Histories to explore beyond the National Mall. How locals experience the vibrancy of D.C.’s food, culture and art scenes. What makes some of D.C.’s most historic neighborhoods—such as the U Street Corridor and Dupont Circle—really shine. Don’t miss these moments [03:25] Aerosmith, the Smithsonian, and the oddball story that started it all. [09:58] Diverse foods and divisive fruits in a cult-favorite restaurant. [20:01] 250 artists in 2 miles: A creative community far beyond the capital city. [35:17] Touring a temple of musical icons. [36:11] They started this legendary festival with a napkin. Meet this week’s guests Sunny Sumter, the president and CEO of the DC Jazz Fest Jeff Miller, founder of the DC Cycling Concierge Marquett Milton, historic interpreter at the African American Civil War Museum Kevin Tien, the executive chef and owner of Moon Rabbit Monica Alford, founder and CEO of Wild Side Media Resources —Read the transcript of this episode. —Listen to Chuck Brown’s version of “It Don’t Mean a Thing.” —Explore Joe Brotherton's music. Want to plan your own DC trip? Aislyn shares a Google Map and her full itinerary here. Where to Stay Eaton DC Rosewood DC Salamander DC >>>Explore even more of Afar's favorite hotels in Washington D.C. Where to Eat and Drink Moon Rabbit The Press Club DC Oyster Oyster, A. Kitchen + Bar St Vincent Wine (for live jazz) Lutece River Club DC Fiola Mare Dogon Yellow Georgetown Baked & Wired Buck’s Fishing and Camping Activities Bike tour with DC Cycling Concierge Walking tour with U Street Time Travel Walking tour with DC Design Tours Arena Stage Culture House National Portrait Gallery >>>Explore more places to eat and explore with Afar's D.C. travel guide. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **
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    55 分
  • These Two Cruise Lines Are Charting a Surprising Path to a Better, Healthier World

    These Two Cruise Lines Are Charting a Surprising Path to a Better, Healthier World
    2025/04/10
    When it comes to the future of cruising, sustainability is steering the ship. On this episode of Unpacked, Afar cruise expert and deputy editor, Michelle Baran, takes you to Seatrade, one of the cruise industry's most important events for a panel discussion that asks the question: Is sustainable cruising the new luxury cruising? From wind-powered voyages to community-centered tourism, she uncovers the surprising and inspiring ways two of the industry's greenest cruise lines, Hurtigruten and Sea Cloud Cruises, are charting the way to a sustainable future. We'll unpack more of the trends and innovations coming out of Seatrade in coming weeks—stay tuned! Why Small Ships Make Big Waves in Modern Cruising On this episode, you’ll learn: How smaller ships create opportunities for travelers to contribute to local communities. Tips to spot the difference between genuine sustainability and “greenwashing” in cruising. The unique ways that cruise lines are confronting overtourism and tending to travelers' needs. Sustainable Cruising: Seaweed Farms and Setting Sail Don’t miss these moments: [04:21] “Engines off. It doesn’t get greener than that.” The most peaceful moment of a Sea Cloud cruise. [12:34] Don’t just ban single-use plastic. Behind Hurtigruten’s circular food economy. [18:14] How beach BBQs are helping build back an island’s economy Meet this week’s guests Gerry Larsson-Fedde, COO at Hurtigruten Kevin Smith, vice president of sales at Sea Cloud Cruises Resources Read the transcript of this episode. Listen to these Unpacked Minis: There’s a Cruise for You (Really!) and Please Don’t Plan a Cruise Without This. Explore more cruise inspiration and intel on afar.com Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **
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    31 分
  • These are the Best New Hotels of 2025—and They Have Stories to Tell

    These are the Best New Hotels of 2025—and They Have Stories to Tell
    2025/04/03
    The best hotels offer so much more than a place to stay. In this episode of Unpacked, go behind the scenes of our Best New Hotels list to discover the hotels that are helping to redefine a destination, setting a new bar for sustainability and design, and bringing travelers into communities where their dollars can really count. Host Aislyn Greene and senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers—Afar's resident hotel expert—share inspiration for your next great trip. In 2025, Hotels are Becoming Local Heroes On this episode, you’ll learn: How hotels are uplifting local communities and preserving cultural legacies. What the future of sustainable stays looks like and how to sniff out the real deal. Immersive cultural experiences you can only have when you stay at a hotel. “Sustainability Has Never Looked So Beautiful.” Don’t miss these transformative moments: [02:47] This carbon-positive hotel takes sustainability to new heights. [09:59] Would you forgo electricity for this historic stay? [17:58] Local Discoveries: How a tea towel led to new travel plans. Resources Read the transcript of this episode. Explore the Best Hotels of 2025 list. Listen to last year's Best New Hotels episode. Listen to our Unpacking ILTM episode. Want more recommendations? Subscribe to Jenn’s newsletter: Stay Here Next Follow Jenn on Instagram or read this story about her childhood in the Plaza Hotel. Learn more about Populus Hotel in Denver, Dar Tantoura the House Hotel, Kibale Lodge, One and Only One Za’beel and other extraordinary stays on afar.com Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **
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    36 分
  • The State Where Blues Music Legends Are Born

    The State Where Blues Music Legends Are Born
    2025/04/01
    These locals are blazing a trail back to the legends that made Mississippi, specifically the Delta, a region that was (and is) vital to the development of modern music. On this episode of Unpacked, British writer and fiddle player, Emma John, takes you on a musical odyssey through the Mississippi Blues Trail and its role in reviving a blues heartland and connecting travelers to the soul of the genre. A special thanks to the late Raymond Earl "Pat" Thomas, the legendary musician featured in this episode who passed on February 12 at the age of 64. Mississippi, the Heartland of Modern Music In this episode you’ll learn: The venues, museums and historical establishment you must visit on the Mississippi Blues Trail The local legends surrounding original blues musicians like Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and W.C. Handy The looks, sounds and feels of authentic Delta blues. Juke Joints, Shotgun Shacks and the Soul of a Land Don’t miss these moments: [06:19] The Bad Apple Blues Club might seem sketchy at first, but it’s got heart. [11:40] This is where B.B. King insisted on being buried. [27:07] Muddy Water’s nephew proves that in the Delta, the blues is always with you. Listen to the Locals Who Carry the Legacy of Blues Muddy Water’s great nephew, the son of celebrated bluesman John Thomas and a museum director who met B.B. King as a child—these are some of the local voices that steward the soul of blues on the Mississippi Blues Trail. Listen along as fiddle player Emma John, gets a local legacy lesson and sees how the heart, soul, and pulse of Delta Blues continues to affect musicians and travelers, alike. Meet This Week's Guests Big A and the Allstars at Ground Zero Blues Club Roger Stolle, owner of Cat Head Delta Blues and Folk Art Sean Apple, owner of Bad Apple Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi Robert Terrell, director of operations at the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center Barry Bays, professor at the Delta Music Institute Keith Johnson, aka “the Prince of the Delta Blues” Pat Thomas, Delta blues guitarist and son of James Thomas who often played at the Highway 61 Blues Museum More Resources Read more about Emma John’s road trip on the Mississippi Blues Trail. Explore Emma’s website, buy her books and read about her musical origins on afar.com. Listen to this playlist featuring the artists from this episode. Read the transcript of this episode. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **
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    38 分