Eye on Travel – Waldorf Astoria in New York – January 31, 2026

This week’s broadcast of Eye on Travel is from the historic and iconic Waldorf Astoria in New York City. Peter has all of the journey updates, starting from Southwest’s new assigned seating to how we did — and didn’t — get well from the arctic vortex, and the teachings discovered. And a celebration of alternate airports. Pauline Frommer, President of the Frommer’s guidebooks, on the recent new vacation spot and expertise developments for 2026. Author Pico Iyer on the brand new definition of journey and interior peace (and the necessity for outer dialog). Then a deep dive into a real New York monument. Historian David Freeland, and Author of American Hotel: The Waldorf Astoria and the Making of a Century, on the deeper which means of the structure, the design, and naturally the legendary company on the lodge. Executive Chef Patrick Schaeffer on the signature dishes on the lodge — from the unique Waldorf Salad — to what locally-sourced really means on the menu. There’s all this and extra on this version of Eye on Travel. 

On this broadcast:
Peter’s News Open, Pauline Frommer, David Freeland (0:00-39:40)

Gloria Guevara, Pico Iyer, Kathy McCabe, Luigi Romaniello (39:40-1:19:20)

Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, Jess Petitt, Ask Peter, Patrick Schaeffer (1:19:20-1:59:00)