In some of the world’s most coveted destinations, tourism is fueling a crisis that's pushing locals out of their own neighborhoods. Venice's new tourist taxes and Barcelona's growing anti-tourism protests show how beloved destinations are fighting back against over-tourism. And as travelers, it's time we listen.
In this episode, host Angie Orth welcomes Daniel Maurer, a James Beard Award-winning food and travel journalist who has contributed to the New York Times, New York Magazine's Eater, and Atlas Obscura. As the former editor of Grub Street and author of the new book The Future of Travel, Daniel shares firsthand experiences from his digital nomad journey across Spain, Japan, and beyond—witnessing both the beauty of cultural exchange and the burden of mass tourism.
You'll learn how to travel with respect for local communities, with insights that will show you why Catalan speakers aren't being snobbish and why that to-go coffee cup matters more than you think. Daniel reveals practical ways to lighten your footprint, connect authentically with locals, and travel with reciprocity in mind. You’ll discover what gives him hope for the future of travel and how Anthony Bourdain's philosophy can transform the way you experience the world.
What You’ll Learn:
3:30 Why Barcelona became ground zero for anti-tourism protests and what travelers need to understand before going
7:08 How tourist taxes and etiquette campaigns are reshaping popular destinations
13:35 The role technology should (and shouldn't) play in authentic travel experiences
18:32 How to move through destinations with reverence rather than extraction
21:44 What connecting with locals teaches us about breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions
Connect with Daniel Maurer:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-maurer-2331685
Book: https://mhpbooks.com/books/the-future-of-travel
What are your thoughts on responsible travel? Share them in the comments!
Connect with AAA:
Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises
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