Italy, Olympics, and Jet Thrills

Travel Podcasts

Audio By Carbonatix

Kevin McCullough and Linda Perillo kick off Travel Tuesday with spirited banter before diving headfirst into the travel headlines that really matter—starting with Italy’s moment in the global spotlight. With the upcoming Winter Olympics set across Milan, Venice, and the Dolomites, the duo explores how spreading events across northern Italy could fuel tourism long after the Olympic flame goes out.

Italy remains the star of the show, with vivid talk of alpine scenery, world-class food, and why the Dolomites offer a jaw-dropping backdrop unlike anywhere else. Kevin shares insights from his Passport Life series, while Linda looks forward to the inevitable Olympic food features—because in Italy, even sports come with great pasta.

The conversation then pivots to the growing backlash against “wild” Instagram tourism. A tiny village in northern Italy plans to restrict access to a photogenic church unless visitors stay overnight, sparking a lively debate about sustainable travel, local economies, and why day-trippers may soon have to hike for their selfies.

From mountains to beaches, the episode jets to St. Maarten’s legendary Maho Beach, where planes skim shockingly close to sunbathers. Kevin and Linda marvel at the thrill (and noise), debate long-haul flights, and confess their mutual reluctance to spend 20 hours in a flying tube—Italy, once again, feels much closer and friendlier.

The show wraps with a pop-culture twist: Ken—yes, Barbie’s Ken—has become Expedia’s newest travel ambassador. Celebrating his 65th anniversary with global adventures and giveaways, Ken proves that even plastic icons can inspire wanderlust.

Travel Tuesday signs off reminding listeners that no matter the trend, Italy still reigns supreme.