Explore With Tony

I used ChatGPT to plan most of my trip to Portugal in late 2025. How did it go? Pretty well, though with some hiccups. Listen to learn what I'm going to do different next time.

I went to see The Wizard of Oz at the Sphere in Vegas. Did it live up to the hype? Listen for my experience.

We visited Lisbon and Porto with our 16 month old for Thanksgiving. Here is a recap of how things went, lessons learned, and what I would do differently next time. Car seat: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Cosco-Kids-Scenera-NEXT-Convertible-Car-Seat-Moonlit-Night-Infant-Toddler-Unisex/9321554473 Stroller: https://www.amazon.com/Joolz-Lightweight-Travel-Stroller-Toddler/dp/B0FM82ZBZR/

I recently completed Ride the Rim in Oregon (https://ridetherimoregon.com/). It was about 35 miles for the whole loop, traversing huge ascents and declines given the hilly route. It was a lot of fun and you should look into it for next year! My bike: https://www.salsacycles.com/collections/confluence (though honestly it was a bit heavy and I aimed to NOT use the e-bike portion, so a regular road b...

Show Notes & Links Jonathan Haidt’s  The Anxious Generation  (book that inspired earlier thoughts):  Buy it here Moment App  – To track and limit screen time Day One Journal App  – Simple way to jot down daily travel memories Headspace Mindful Walking Guide  – Practice staying present, even while moving

In this episode of  Explore with Tony , I reflect on how technology has shaped — and sometimes undermined—the way we travel, inspired by my recent read of  The Anxious Generation  by Jonathan Haidt. As someone who grew up before smartphones were a constant presence, I share how I’ve seen the shift from real-world connection to screen-based living, even on the road. I talk about how travel used to...

Japan is one of my favorite countries and Tokyo is awesome. Here's why and a few links you can check out after the episode: teamLab Planets (Digital Art Exhibit):   https://planets.teamlab.art/tokyo/ Suica & Pasmo Transit Cards:   https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2359_003.html Tsukiji Outer Market Info:   https://www.tsukiji.or.jp/english/ Best Tokyo Neighborhoods to Explore:  Shinjuku, Shib...

Samsung Frame TV  –  Learn more My Van Gogh-Style Conversion Prompt: “Convert the photos I upload into a painting using Van Gogh style with obvious paint splotches/bumps/texture spots. Colors should track the photo, but be realistic in terms of what a real artist would be able to replicate. Make the final image 3840 x 2160 pixels. Do not add a border.” Custom Art & Print Tools: Moo.com  – Cust...

If you’re looking for a  more organized way to pack ,  the Solgaard closet system  is a  must-try.  Let me know what  your go-to travel bags  are, and I might feature them in a future episode! My Current Travel Setup: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Suitcase  –  Learn more Solgaard Travel Backpack  –  Learn more Nomatic Travel Pack  –  Learn more Other Popular Travel Backpacks I Haven’t Tried Yet But Am...

If you’re looking to  simplify your travel charging setup , switching to  USB-C everything  is the easiest way to do it. Let me know what  your go-to travel chargers  are, and I might feature them in a future episode! My Favorite Travel Chargers: Anker MagSafe Compatible MagGo UFO 3-in-1 Charger  –  Amazon Link Anker Nano Travel Adapter  –  Amazon Link MYBAT Magnetic Portable Charger 5000mAh  –  A...

In this episode of  Explore with Tony , I relive my experience hiking half of the  Tour du Mont Blanc , from France into Italy. What was originally supposed to be a three-day trek turned into an ambitious—and slightly ridiculous— 27-mile day  when we decided to push through in the heat, dodging sheep and racing the sunset. I share the highs, the lows, and what I’d do differently next time. Whether...

Hiking to Machu Picchu was one of the most fun hikes I've had, taking me up to 15,000 feet and back down through a cloud forest and jungles. Let's recap the trip. Company I Used:   Salkantay Trekking - 5-Day Salkantay & Llactapata Trek Packing List for the Salkantay Trek:   REI Trekking Gear Guide Altitude Sickness Tips:   CDC Guide to High Altitude Travel

In this episode of  Explore with Tony , we dive into the tech tools and gadgets that can transform your travel experience. From essential apps like  Google Maps  and  Point.me  to must-have gadgets like portable chargers and travel routers, I share practical examples of how these tools have helped me navigate, stay connected, and capture unforgettable moments. Whether you're exploring remote lands...

My two favorite credit cards for travel are the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the American Express Platinum. Join me today as I discuss why and how I use these two cards. Helpful Resources: Chase Sapphire Reserve Overview American Express Business Platinum Perks Point Redemption Strategies from NerdWallet

Join Tony in this New Year’s Day episode of  Explore with Tony  as he reflects on 2024’s transformative travel moments, from Argentina and Antarctica to family trips in Hawaii and Arizona. Discover his goals for 2025, including a European adventure with his baby and exploring new states and national parks in the USA. Tune in to hear how Tony is transitioning from fast travel to family travel and w...

In this episode of  Explore with Tony , I share how I was able to turn my honeymoon into an around-the-world adventure, visiting multiple continents in luxury — all for under $1,000 out of pocket! We used  Point.me  and a mix of Chase Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy points. We booked business-class flights with lay-flat seats, ensuring comfort on long-haul journey...

In this episode, Tony shares his first experience flying with a 4-month-old baby, including the highs, the lows, and everything in between. From booking surprises to in-flight crying, he covers what went right, what went wrong, and how to prepare for smoother travels with an infant. Check out these articles for more information: ⁠Flying with an Infant: Tips for a Smooth Trip⁠ This article offers a...

Today, we’re going behind the scenes into one of my favorite parts of traveling—wildlife photography. From Kenya to Antarctica, I’ve used my Canon T8i with a Sigma 18-300mm lens to capture some amazing moments, even in challenging conditions. In this episode, I’ll be sharing practical tips for getting the best shots in environments that are cold, hot, or even a bit shaky. Here are some links for p...

I’m diving into one of the most unforgettable trips of my life — a 10-day cruise to Antarctica! In February 2024, I set sail on the  Ocean Endeavor , a cruise ship organized by Intrepid Travel, from the port of Ushuaia in Argentina. Let me tell you, this wasn’t just a trip; it was a full-on expedition into one of the most remote, breathtaking, and humbling places on Earth. Let's talk about details...

Welcome to the podcast!

https://ridetherimoregon.com

We just got back from 12 days in Portugal (Lisbon and Porto) with our 17 month old baby. It was his first international trip. Here are the highlights and some things to think about if you're taking a similar trip with a baby soon. Joolz Travel Stroller  – Lightweight, compact, handles cobblestones well Cosco Scenera NEXT Car Seat  – Affordable, narrow, ideal for flights Marriott Hotels  – Cons...