6 Travel Podcasts to Fill Your Day

Posted on 03/30/202004/02/2020 by Alicia Haugen

Many people are working from home for the time being, and many travel plans are on hold. Even though you are likely stuck inside right now, that doesn’t mean the daydreaming and wanderlust have stopped. If you need something to fill your day, try listening to a podcast – specifically, a travel one! The great thing about podcasts is that they can be listened to while you work or from your couch. Here are a few we recommend.

Extra Pack of Peanuts

Extra Pack of Peanuts (EPOP) is a podcast hosted by a husband-and-wife team Trav and Heather: one is frugal-minded and the other appreciates the finer things in life. The podcast teaches you not just where to travel, but how to travel, in a way that is smarter and more cost-effective. The podcast has guest interviews with top-name travelers and offers travel advice, such as how to pack like a pro or use frequent flyer miles.

Many EPOP episodes highlight specific destinations with recommendations of where to eat and visit in those cities. Some episodes are lists, like the top 10 ice cream shops in the world or the top 25 breweries. Episodes are released weekly on Tuesdays and can be found on iTunes, Spotify, and Stitcher.

Travel with Rick Steves

Travel with Rick Steves is the podcast version of his radio show by the same name. The host, Rick Steves, is a travel guru, writer, and PBS television personality. He is considered an expert on Europe, but the podcast covers destinations in the USA and all over the world. Rick Steves is adamant about exposing people to the unknown, particularly to other cultures and different ways of life.

Travel with Rick Steves features guest callers and expert speakers each week. The educational podcast often covers topics like historical events or cultural practices in different locations. Episodes are released weekly on Fridays and can be found on all major podcast apps.

Boldly Went

If you love exploring the outdoors – and adrenaline rushes – this podcast is for you. Boldly Went is a weekly podcast hosted by accomplished adventurer Angel Mathis. The podcast features recordings of brief and true adventure stories told in front of live audiences at the Boldly Went live shows. The stories on the podcast are told by outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds, from world record holders to pro-athletes.

You’ll hear about scuba diving, climbing volcanoes, mountaineering, and much more. Some stories are inspiring, some feature frightening mishaps, and some are funny – but they will all make you itch for the outdoors. Episodes are released weekly on Mondays and can be found on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, and RadioPubic.

How Not to Travel

How Not to Travel is a podcast hosted by Kiona, who also has a popular travel blog and Instagram account. Hawaii-native, Kiona, saw a need in the travel blogging and podcasting world for perspectives other than those of rich, white women. Her podcast aims to talk about important issues and ensure that traditionally marginalized voices are heard.

Some of the topics covered so far have been travel sustainability, safety, and what it really means to do something “like a local.” Overall, you’ll learn how to travel more conscientiously. Episodes are released about twice a month, usually on a Wednesday, and can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most major podcast apps.

Travel Genius

Travel Genius is a podcast by Bloomberg, hosted by Nikki Ekstein and Mark Ellwood. This podcast is about hacks and finding smarter ways to travel. The show brings on experienced traveler guests and asks them about their best traveling tips in a competitive, quiz-style fashion. They ring a bell when a tip is deemed “genius” and tally up which guest has the most points at the end of each episode.

You’ll learn about what you should never pack, how to “hack” traveling alone, how to look fresh after a long flight, and more. Because the show is competitive, many tips are likely to be ones you’ve never heard of before! Episodes are typically released weekly on Wednesdays and can be found on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and anywhere you get podcasts.

Zero to Travel

This podcast is another great one for the frugal-minded or travelers on a budget. Zero to Travel is hosted by travel expert Jason Moore. The podcast brings on guest speakers who live most of their life “on the road” to give advice and practical tips. It is great for traveling newbies and full-time globe trotters alike.

Zero to Travel discusses topics like the world’s cheapest destinations, how to overcome flight anxiety, jobs that allow you to travel, and more. The show also explores the nomadic lifestyle in some episodes, with tips such as how to take the big leap. Episodes are released on Tuesdays for three weeks in a row and one week off per month. The podcast can be found on all major podcast apps.

These podcasts will keep your mind busy throughout this uncertain time, and they will prepare you for traveling again once we’re through it. We hope they help scratch that wanderlust itch for you until you are able to travel again. In the meantime, stay safe and find ways to keep entertained!

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Top Tips for Working from Home

Posted on 03/22/202003/26/2020 by Alicia Haugen

During these troubling times, a lot has changed very quickly, including how we work. If your workplace has transitioned its staff into remote offices and you’re working from home, you may be unsure how to best work in your new environment. Here at Frontdesk, most of our team works remotely, and we’ve gathered the best tips to optimize your work schedule, minimize workplace distractions, and stay alert and healthy throughout your day.

Create a Schedule, But Be Flexible, Especially with Kids at Home

“Make a plan for the day, but understand that part of working from home is flexibility, so be prepared to make changes to your plan when your kid needs attention,” recommends Jenn Mason-Cammorato, Revenue Manager. If you have a set work schedule that you’re taking from your physical office to a remote one, you need to remember that your work environment is going to change at home, and you’ll need to be flexible. Get ready to experience new office distractions and disturbances, whether it be your child that needs extra attention or sharing a home office with your partner.

Be Active

“Get up and stretch/move – just because you’re stuck at home doesn’t mean you can’t work out,” says Ashley Johnston, Marketing Specialist. Every once in awhile, it’s good to get away from your computer and get moving. Though you may not be able to go to the gym, you can still go for a walk around your neighborhood or exercise in your home. Even stretching for a few minutes can make you feel more energized and ready to give your work 100 percent!

Split Up Your Day

Don’t try to get everything done at once. David Tock, Market Development Manager, recommends the hour-interval program. He says, “The day can seem very disjointed and slow, so I generally try to do 45 minutes of constant email and phone calls, then use 15 minutes of every hour to completely get away.” During your break, you can listen to music, talk to a friend, check social media, or do anything else you enjoy.

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

Rachael Fields, Guest Experience Team Training Manager, suggests “open communication with the rest of the team; over-communicate to avoid confusion with text and be mindful of text tone of voice.” Any time you’re working as a team, clear communication is key, but staying in touch when you’re physically apart can be a challenge. Use the tools available to you, like Slack, Google Hangouts, and email, to connect with your team. Always take your time to craft a clear message before hitting send so your words are not misconstrued.

Let Others Know When You’re Working

Avoiding distractions can be difficult enough when you’re working from home. But, if your family members, children, or roommates are also home (and most likely they are), staying productive can feel impossible. Jaymie Raatz, Human Resources Manager, recommends that you “communicate your schedule and priorities to anyone else in the house, so they can avoid distracting you.” By communicating openly with them, your housemates will respect your boundaries and, hopefully, not distract you when you’re working.

Transitioning to remote work can be difficult, especially if you’ve never had to work from home before. But, take it from the experts here at Frontdesk, it’s not all that scary! By using the tips above, you can remain productive and strike a better work-life balance.

Flexible Cancelation & COVID-19

Posted on 03/12/202009/08/2022 by Alicia Haugen

Nothing is more important to the Frontdesk family than the health and safety of our guests, employees, and communities.

Frontdesk Flexible Cancelation Policy

When booking directly through our website or via Airbnb, Frontdesk has always had an extremely flexible cancellation policy. In the event that you need to change or cancel your trip, our booking policy allows guests to cancel their reservation:

If the stay length is between 1-29 days and canceled at least 48 hours prior to the check-in date, you will receive a full refund.
For stays 30+ days or longer, the following applies:
– If you cancel within 24 hours of booking your stay and before checking in, we will issue a full refund.
– If you cancel more than 30 days before check-in, we issue a refund minus a $400 cancelation fee.
– If you cancel 30 days or less before your reservation date, you are responsible for the first 30 nights and a $400 cancellation fee. We then refund all nights after night 30. For more details, please see the rental agreement you agreed to when booking.

For assistance with canceling, rescheduling, or booking your reservation, please call or text us at +1-414-240-2398.

Please note, except in extenuating circumstances, Frontdesk is not entitled to cancel a booking once a Confirmation of Booking has been sent. In these circumstances, Frontdesk will contact you to try to arrange alternative accommodations. In the event that Frontdesk is unable to assist in finding alternative accommodations, Frontdesk will provide a full refund of any payments made by you.

How You Can Stay Safe Against Covid-19

We have always prided ourselves on our exceptionally high cleaning standards, which we credit to our in-house cleaning teams but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing Covid-19, whether you are currently staying with us or plan to travel in the future.

According to the CDC, the single best way to stay safe is to limit your exposure to it. Since this virus is primarily spread from person-to-person, avoid coming into contact with people who are sick. Wash your hands with soap and water frequently for at least 20 seconds at a time. You can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you don’t have access to soap and water.

For added reassurance, our staff has also been given specific instructions for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, as recommended by OSHA.

Spend MLB Opening Day at the Best U.S. Stadiums

Posted on 03/08/202011/14/2020 by Alicia Haugen

Opening Day marks the beginning of the new Major League Baseball (MLB) season. All 30 teams will be playing on the same day in various cities across the country, starting with fresh records. The 2020 Opening Day will take place on Thursday, March 26. Keep reading to learn more about attending Opening Day games in some of our favorite cities, as well as our recommendations for the best places to eat, shop, and stay while you’re there.

Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH

Cleveland Indians vs. Detroit Tigers

The Indians vs. Tigers opening game will take place at Progressive Field at 1:10 pm. The 35,000-seat ballpark is located in the middle of downtown Cleveland, near Playhouse Square and the JACK Casino. It is in a bustling area with plenty of great restaurants and shops – here are a few of our top recommendations!

EAT

SHOP

STAY

Start off your morning in Cleveland with breakfast at REBoL, a cafe located just minutes from the ballpark. They serve coffee, smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries, all made from non-toxic, non-GMO, and organic ingredients. For lunch, you don’t even need to leave the ballpark! Melt Bar and Grilled is a popular regional chain with a location inside Progressive Field that is known for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. End your night at Lola, an award-winning restaurant by celebrity chef Michael Symon. The beef cheek pierogies at the New American eatery are a must-try; they also have excellent seafood options.

While you’re in downtown Cleveland, check out some of the shops that call the city home. Opened in 1890, The Arcade is one of the oldest shopping malls in the United States. The National Historic Landmark is known for its beautiful Victorian-era architecture and the large skylight that stretches across the top of the multi-story building. Today, you can enjoy spa treatments, handcrafted jewelry, gift shops, an art gallery, and more. Also located just minutes from Progressive Field is Tower City Center. Tower City has large brands like Brooks Brothers and Bath & Body Works, as well as local retailers.

While visiting Cleveland for Opening Day, you’ll want to stay somewhere close to the ballpark and all of the action downtown. Frontdesk has furnished short-term rentals in Cleveland, located within walking distance of Progressive Field. When you stay with us, you’ll get modern amenities like fully stocked kitchens, smart TVs with Roku and Netflix, and access to laundry facilities.

Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, FL

Tampa Bay Rays vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

The Rays vs. Pirates opening game will take place at Tropicana Field at 4:10 pm. The 25,000-seat domed stadium is located in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. Downtown also houses the Salvador Dali Museum and Chihuly Collection, as well as many dining options. Here are some places we recommend checking out while in town!

EAT

SHOP

STAY

When you’re in the South, there is no better way to begin your day than with biscuits and gravy at Maple Street Biscuit Co. For lunch, walk a few blocks away from the stadium to Bodega and enjoy one of their renowned Cuban sandwiches. We recommend checking out The Avenue for dinner and drinks later in the evening. They are known for having the best burgers in St. Pete.

When it comes to shopping, your best bet is to head to Sundial St. Pete. The shopping mall has well-known retailers like Tommy Bahama and White House Black Market, plus a wellness center and a movie theater. Sundial is located in the heart of downtown, only a 5-minute drive from Tropicana Field. The city also has several boutique shops downtown that you can check out.

While visiting St. Petersburg for Opening Day, the best place to stay is somewhere close to downtown, near the ballpark and the city’s other attractions. That’s where Frontdesk comes in. We have one-bedroom suites in St. Petersburg, located half a mile from Tropicana Field. These Frontdesk rentals also offer modern amenities like fully stocked kitchens, smart TVs with Roku and Netflix, and access to laundry facilities, a 24/7 gym, and an infinity pool.

Chase Field in Phoenix, AZ

Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Atlanta Braves

At 7:10 pm on Chase Field, the Arizona Diamondbacks will be facing off against the Atlanta Braves. The 48,600-seat ballpark is located in the middle of downtown Phoenix, near the Science Center and Heritage Square. There’s always something fun to do in Downtown Phoenix. Here are a few of our recommendations!

EAT

SHOP

STAY

Begin your morning in Phoenix at Matt’s Big Breakfast, a popular spot that dishes out large portions of favorites like waffles, biscuits and gravy, and egg scrambles. For lunch, we recommend enjoying a slice at Pizzeria Bianco, a short 5-minute walk from the ballpark. Even celebs like Oprah and Martha Stewart have raved about this famous pizza spot! The Arrogant Butcher, also a 5-minute walk away, makes a great choice for dinner. The iconic steakhouse is, of course, known for its steaks, but they also have excellent seafood and drinks.

For shopping, we recommend heading to nearby Cityscape. Here you’ll find retailers like Urban Outfitters, as well as a salon and spa, comedy club, bowling alley, and many restaurants. You can also find lots of independent shops in downtown Phoenix, from vintage shops to sporting goods stores.

While visiting Phoenix for 2020 Opening Day, you’ll want to find the perfect suite located close to downtown. Frontdesk offers one- and two-bedroom short-term rentals, conveniently located within a ten-minute drive of the ballpark. When you stay with us, you’ll get modern amenities like fully stocked kitchens, smart TVs with Roku and Netflix, and access to laundry and pool facilities.

With 2020 Opening Day just a few weeks away, it’s time to begin preparing for your trip. There are so many fantastic places to eat, visit, and stay in Cleveland, St. Petersburg, and Phoenix; your days are sure to be jam-packed with fun! But no matter where you’re traveling, be sure to book with Frontdesk; stay in our comfortable, personalized one- and two-bedroom suites, centrally-located in the best cities across the country.

Get updates on our latest suites, exclusive offers, and more!

March 2020 Travel Guide: What You Should Know

Posted on 03/01/202003/29/2020 by Alicia Haugen

Winter is starting to melt into spring, and many people are longing for a break. With warmer weather comes more travelers; add Spring Break in the mix, and prices start to rise in March. However, with careful planning, you can still avoid big crowds and inflated expenses. So, where are the best places to travel in March 2020? Keep reading to find out!

POPULAR TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Since temperatures are finally beginning to rise, you have more destination options to choose from. Perhaps you’re looking for a bustling city with lots of arts and culture. Maybe you want to escape to a peaceful beach that’s not populated by wild spring breakers. No matter what you’re looking for, here are a few of our favorite cities to visit in March.

Dallas, TX

March is a great time to visit the Lone Star State. Temperatures in Dallas range from the high 60s to the low 70s, which is much milder than its sweltering summers. While you’re in town, we recommend visiting the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. In March, you’ll be able to check out the annual Dallas Blooms festival. This year’s display will feature six majestic topiaries that depict different musical instruments. During your trip, be sure to check out the Dallas Museum of Art, too. As one of the largest museums in the country, it boasts a stunning collection of artwork spanning the third millennium BC to the present day.

Jacksonville, FL

If you’re looking for a warm, tropical escape from the winter blues, Jacksonville is a great destination. You can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf without the crowds that you may see in other Floridian cities. Jacksonville has 22 miles of beaches that you can enjoy; our favorites include Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Mayport Beach, and Atlantic Beach. In addition to its luxurious beaches, Jacksonville is also home to a growing art scene. Be sure to explore the Cummer Museum of Art, which has 5,000 works of art spanning centuries plus historic gardens.

Pittsburgh, PA

Don’t mind the cold? Pittsburgh may be the ideal vacation destination for you! We included this Northern city on our list for one very specific reason – St. Patrick’s Day. About 14% of Pittsburgh’s population is Irish and they certainly know how to celebrate their heritage. On March 17th and the weekend before, the city hosts all sorts of holiday festivities, including one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the country and several bar crawls. Even if you can’t make it for all of the St. Patrick’s Day festivities, Pittsburgh is an awesome city rich with arts and culture – a perfect place to visit this March.

BEST TIME TO FLY

Spring break happens during different weeks for different schools, making it difficult to know when to book your trip if you’re trying to schedule around it. That’s why we recommend focusing on the destination instead. With the cities suggested above, you won’t have to worry as much about large crowds or high prices. In general, it looks like prices will be lower the first two weeks of March, making that half of the month the best for traveling. Try to avoid flying on the weekend (Friday-Sunday) as these days tend to be more expensive.

Airline prices change frequently, so we always recommend shopping around to get the best deal. Here are some of the best prices we found for March:

Atlanta (ATL) to Dallas (DFW) from $44: March 7, 9-10
Chicago (ORD) to Jacksonville (JAX) from $57: March 9-10, 18
Los Angeles (LAX) to Pittsburgh (PIT) from $80: March 6-7

DON’T FORGET

Bring a jacket or sweater. Even though you’re dying to shed your winter garb, planes tend to be chilly!
Get to the airport extra early, at least two hours before boarding time. There will likely be increased passenger volume in the spring, which can mean longer lines.
Cold and flu season is not yet over in March, so be sure to frequently wash your hands, wipe down your area on the plane, and use hand sanitizer.
Double-check the weather forecast before your trip and pack layers. Spring weather can be unpredictable, no matter the destination!

Once you decide on the best place to travel for your March 2020 vacation, you will need to find accommodations. That’s where Frontdesk comes in! Frontdesk has short-term apartment rentals centrally-located in the hearts of Dallas, Jacksonville, Pittsburgh, and many more great cities. Find a one- or two-bedroom suite now!

Get updates on our latest suites, exclusive offers, and more!

Create a Schedule, But Be Flexible, Especially with Kids at Home

Be Active

Split Up Your Day

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

Let Others Know When You’re Working

Frontdesk Flexible Cancelation Policy

How You Can Stay Safe Against Covid-19

Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH

Cleveland Indians vs. Detroit Tigers

EAT

SHOP

STAY

Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, FL

Tampa Bay Rays vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

EAT

SHOP

STAY

Chase Field in Phoenix, AZ

Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Atlanta Braves

EAT

SHOP

STAY

POPULAR TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Dallas, TX

Jacksonville, FL

Pittsburgh, PA

BEST TIME TO FLY

DON’T FORGET

Need Assistance?

Call/Text: +1 414 240 2398

Email: hello@stayfrontdesk.com