The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast
The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast is where travel, food, and culture meet. Hosted by San Francisco–based travel writer, storyteller, and mom of two teens Shannon Gomes, the show features thoughtful conversations with experts in the food and wine world, avid travelers, creators, tastemakers, and locals who reveal what truly makes a destination memorable—and how to experience it like a local, with food always at the center of the journey.
From unforgettable meals and hidden neighborhoods to meaningful cultural experiences and practical travel insight, each episode is designed to inspire curious travelers—especially Gen X listeners who value depth, connection, and great food—to explore the world more intentionally and to bring a sense of discovery back home.
Shannon is also the writer behind The Gomes Guide (https://thegomesguide.substack.com), a weekly travel-focused Substack filled with stories, recommendations, and inspiration for meaningful travel. Listeners are invited to subscribe for fresh ideas, insider tips, and destination inspiration delivered each week.
Whether you’re planning your next trip or simply dreaming about one, The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast celebrates connection, community, and the joy of experiencing new places through food and travel.
The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast
Traveling with Teens: What They Really Think (Family Travel Tips from My Own Kids)
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Ever wondered what your teens are really thinking on family trips?
In this special episode, I sit down with two of my favorite guests, my own two teens, to get their honest take on traveling as teens… and let’s just say, they don’t hold back.
We talk about everything from how involved they want to be in planning (spoiler: they want a say) to what actually makes a trip fun from their perspective.
They share their must-haves for long flights (AirPods, snacks, and comfy clothes are non-negotiable), plus their honest opinions on hotels vs. Airbnbs (space matters… a lot).
We also get into what really stands out to them when we travel:
- Why food is one of the most important ways to experience a culture
- Their favorite destinations so far (Paris, Italy, Greece… strong opinions here)
- The importance of having downtime and personal space on trips
- Why being near water (especially the ocean) is always a win
And one of my favorite parts? Hearing how travel has shaped the way they see the world, from understanding different cultures to appreciating how people live beyond their own bubble.
They also share where they want to go next (Morocco, Vietnam, Brazil, Egypt… I’m taking notes), and what their perfect travel day actually looks like.
If you travel with teens, or are about to, this episode is packed with insight, perspective, and a few reminders that might just change how you plan your next trip.
👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.