If Traverse City, Michigan has been on your radar—or even if it hasn’t—this episode is for you. Ashleigh and Christopher break down everything you need to know for a first visit: from hidden gems and outdoor adventures to the best places to stay, sip, and unwind. Whether you're planning a long weekend or a summer escape, this guide will help you experience Traverse City like a local.

Set along the clear blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay, this northern Michigan destination offers more than just small-town charm. Expect rolling vineyards, lake breezes, scenic drives, and an easygoing pace that still keeps things interesting.

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Get outside:

• Bike the TART Trail through town and along the water
• Climb the dunes and cruise the scenic Pierce Stocking Drive at Sleeping Bear Dunes
• Swim or sun at one of many calm, sandy beaches along Grand Traverse Bay
• Catch a sunset sail on the tall ship Manitou
• Try world-class golf at Arcadia Bluffs or Grand Traverse Resort
• Visit in winter? Bring your skis or snowshoes

Explore and shop:

• Wander downtown Traverse City’s boutique shops and indie bookstores
• Visit Cherry Republic for quirky gifts and all things cherry
• Tour the Grand Traverse Commons, a historic site now home to cafés, galleries, and tunnels you can actually explore

Drink local:

• Spend a day wine tasting on Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas—don’t miss 2 Lads, Mawby, or Rove
• Grab a flight at North Peak or Mitten Brewing for great beer and lake views
• Sample creative ciders at Taproot Cider House downtown

• Beachfront resorts in Acme such as Sugar Beach for lakefront sunrise views
• Downtown digs like Delamar put you close to the action
• Inn at Chateau Grand Traverse on Old Mission Peninsula offer quiet vineyard vibes
• Campers, you’re covered at Traverse City State Park—just steps from the bay

Here are a few local favorites to keep you well-fed:

• Poppycocks’s – casual bites with a creative twist downtown
• Farm Club – a farm-to-table restaurant and brewery with trails and open fields
• Grand Traverse Pie Company – yes, get the cherry pie
• North Peak Brewing and Jolly Pumpkin – hearty fare and excellent beer
• Cup of Joe and Higher Grounds– the kind of local coffee shop you’ll wish was in your hometown

• Summer is peak season—book early or come in spring or fall for fewer crowds and lower rates
• Consider camping if you’re looking to save and stay close to nature
• Don’t skip time on the water—paddleboarding, kayaking, or just floating is a must

Have a Traverse City favorite we didn’t mention? Reach out and let us know—your tips might make it into a future episode.

May & June 2025 Travel News

Ready to spark ideas for your next adventure or just stay in the know? In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher break down the most relevant travel headlines from May & June 2025—no fluff, just real-world updates and thoughtful insights for curious travelers.

Airline & Transit News

• Newark Airport is expected to return to normal operations by October, easing travel in and out of the NYC area. (https://www.newser.com/story/369835/faa-says-newark-airport-should-be-ok-by-october.html)

• Summer 2025 airfare is trending 10% cheaper than last year—good news if you’ve been eyeing a trip but waiting for the right deal. (https://thepointsguy.com/news/summer-of-saving/)

• United and JetBlue have launched the Blue Sky Partnership, and JetBlue is also teaming up with Florida’s Brightline rail for smoother connections. (https://www.cnbc.com/amp/select/united-airlines-jetblue-blue-sky-partnership/ https://thepointsguy.com/news/jetblue-brightline-air-rail-partnership/)

• Delta faced backlash for charging solo travelers more—then backpedaled. (https://www.frommers.com/tips/airfare/u-s-airlines-caught-charging-solo-passengers-more/)

• Turkey is cracking down on travelers standing up before the plane stops. (https://www.frommers.com/tips/airfare/fine-for-standing-up-on-planes-too-early/)

• IndiGo (India’s low-cost carrier) is expanding US routes via Delta, KLM, and Virgin Atlantic partnerships. (https://thepointsguy.com/news/indigo-airline-india-us-expansion/)

Wine Break This week’s sip: Guarda Rios from Portugal. Christopher and Ashleigh talk about how it unexpectedly connects to their recent Mexico City series—where they spotted the namesake bird in the canals of Xochimilco.

U.S. Travel News

• US News Best Underrated Destinations in the US (https://travel.usnews.com/rankings/best-underrated-destinations-usa/)
• Disney World’s Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America to close in July https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/experience/theme-parks/2025/06/03/disney-world-tom-sawyer-island-rivers-america-cars/84012720007/

International Travel News

• Munich just took the top spot as the most walkable city in the world—perfect for those who love to explore on foot. (https://www.travelandleisure.com/munich-germany-most-walkable-city-in-world-11721214)

• Spain is cracking down on unlicensed Airbnbs—66,000 listings removed. (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3wdd8lg581o.amp)

• Nepal now requires climbers to summit a 7,000-meter peak before attempting Everest. (https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2025/04/28/travel/nepal-everest-permits-experienced-climbers-intl-hnk)

• Disney announced a brand-new theme park is coming to Abu Dhabi. (https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/experience/theme-parks/2025/05/07/disney-new-theme-park/83458415007/)

Pies Descalzos with Laila Navarro Part 2 How Travel Can Transform You

In this heartwarming continuation of our conversation with Mexico City guide Laila Navarro, we go deeper into the why behind her unforgettable tours.

Moments That Matter Laila shares powerful stories from her guests—like the man who returned to the Basilica after healing. These aren't just tours. They're memories made together. Laila pours her heart into making each experience “something special,” and it shows.

Travel as a Force for Good For Laila, travel is more than checking off a list. It’s a way to shift perspectives, prioritize meaningful experiences over material excess, and reconnect with what really matters—nature, kindness, and joy. Her hope is that guests leave not just with photos, but with a renewed sense of self.

Not Just a City Tour – An Invitation to See Differently Want to taste your way through street markets? Wander a forest in the middle of the city? Dive into Mexican culture in Coyoacán? Laila’s tours are full of thoughtful details and unexpected stories. They're designed to give you a richer understanding of Mexico City and the people who live there.

Let Go of the Fear – Mexico City Is Waiting Laila gently challenges common fears about travel in CDMX, from tap water to street food to riding the metro. Her message: Mexico City is alive with generosity, friendliness, and wonder—if you’re willing to see it with fresh eyes.

Connect with Pies Descalzos Learn more or book a tour at piesdescalzos.fun Like on Facebook: facebook.com/piesdescalzostours Follow on Instagram: instagram.com/piesdescalzostours

This episode is for anyone craving more connection, more meaning, and more discovery in their travels.