Chicago-area native Mark DeCarlo has built quite an impressive and varied career in the entertainment business. About 20 years ago he added travel to his résumé.
Bitten by the comedy bug early in life, DeCarlo started his career on stage in comedy clubs. Around that time he also became the all-time money winner on television’s Sale of the Century. Money he earned from that appearance allowed him extra time to get his career going, and he never looked back. Since then, DeCarlo has hosted game shows; acted on several shows, including Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm; became the voice of Hugh Neutron and other cartoon characters; and more. He also won three Emmy awards for his work on Windy City Live.
In 2004 DeCarlo entered the world of travel with the debut of Taste of America with Mark DeCarlo on the Travel Channel. Several years later, DeCarlo and his wife, Yeni Álvarez, launched their travel podcast, A Fork on the Road. Although it was derailed during the pandemic, DeCarlo and Alvarez are in the process of restarting it.
Recently, I interviewed DeCarlo about his career, including getting his insight on travel and food. From visits to more than 400 cities and even more restaurants, DeCarlo has a wealth of knowledge about everything from 5-star spots to fantastic underrated gems. As a fellow Chicagoan, I also had to ask DeCarlo about Chicago pizza and the Cubs.
Talking Travel is a new interview series on Global Traveler. Subscribe to the GT YouTube channel to be notified of all future interviews and other travel-related videos.
— John Wroblewski, online writer
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Dec 10, 2024Hollywood Volume Joins Tribute Portfolio Hotels
It’s relaunch time: Hollywood VOLUME (formerly known as tommie Hollywood) joined Marriott International’s Tribute Portfolio and is ready for its close-up. The relaunch, which provides access to Marriott’s Bonvoy program, builds on the hotel’s location in Hollywood’s Vinyl District with hosted pop-up parties, Tuesday and Thursday social hours with complimentary canapés served in the lobby, and revolving art installations featuring local creators.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Daily
Dec 10, 2024Pennsylvania’s Nemacolin Opens Hardy’s Holiday Village
Nemacolin shines brighter than ever during the holiday season. This luxury resort in Pennsylvania recently kicked off its holiday programming with its second annual Light Up Night and grand opening of Hardy’s Holiday Village. The new holiday village transforms the property into a winter wonderland, lighting up the night with more than 1 million twinkling lights.
Daily
Dec 10, 2024Regent Hotels & Resorts Presents New Season of Regent Taste Studio
Regent Hotels & Resorts reimagines the world of fine dining with two multisensory pop-up dining experiences, known as Regent Taste Studio, that blend the worlds of culinary and art. Participating chefs come from the brand’s hotels including Regent Phu Quoc, Regent Shanghai on The Bund and Regent Chongqing.
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
Daily
Dec 9, 2024London’s Elizabeth Line Wins Award for New Cross-London Rail Project
The winner of the Royal Institute of British Architects’ 2024 Stirling Prize for Best Building in the UK category was awarded to London’s Elizabeth Line, the city’s new Cross-London rail project that revolutionized riding the “tube” for commuters and out-of-town visitors on the relatively new Elizabeth Line.
6 Hotel Openings to Look Out for in 2025
Daily
Dec 6, 2024December 2024
Dec 6, 2024Global Traveler Sings the Praises of the 21st Annual GT Tested Reader Survey Award Winners
Our GT Tested Reader Survey awards has reached its 21st birthday — let’s raise a glass and say cheers as another year of travel comes to a close and it’s time for Global Traveler to announce the 2024 winners of its reader-voted survey. For 21 years, our readers — a group of intrepid, frequent, luxury travelers — have voted for their favorites in our annual survey, from airlines and airports to hotels and credit cards.
Sponsored Content
Pick Your Paradise: Experience Bali at 3 Incredible Hotels
Bali is a name synonymous with island bliss. But there is more than just one side to this incredible place. Get a sense for the variety of experiences Bali offers by learning about three hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with distinctive opportunities for adventure and relaxation. With the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card, earn points for free nights at each of these properties.
December 2024
Dec 6, 2024Global Traveler Recognizes Winners Achieving Milestone Awards
The 21st annual GT Tested Reader Survey not only celebrates the best in the travel industry but also highlights winning brands who consistently received accolades for years of committed service. From top-notch frequent-flyer programs to favorite cities to credit cards with promising rewards, these winners go above and beyond time and time again.
ShareThis