Travel with Rick Steves

784 Rhineland Karneval; WMF 2025 Watch List; Top Alaska Experiences

Mar 1, 2025
Fabian Ruger, a historian and tour guide, dives into the origins of Carnival celebrations in Germany's Rhineland, discussing its festive history and significance. Bénédite de Montlaur highlights the World Monuments Fund's latest watch list, emphasizing the urgent need to preserve endangered cultural sites worldwide. Lisa Maloney shares her top Alaska experiences, from witnessing breathtaking glaciers and the Northern Lights to budget-friendly travel tips that immerse visitors in local culture. Adventure awaits in the Last Frontier!
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INSIGHT

Carnival’s Origin and Purpose

  • Carnival originated as a feast to consume perishable food before Lent's 40 days of fasting.
  • The chaotic festivities simulate hell before the cleansing fasting, permitted by the Catholic Church.
ADVICE

Dress Up for Cologne Carnival

  • When attending Cologne Carnival, always wear a costume to join the festive spirit.
  • Even police on duty dress up to celebrate, and the Prince of Fools becomes the city’s ceremonial mayor.
INSIGHT

World Monuments Fund Includes Moon

  • The World Monuments Fund’s new 2025 watch list includes 25 endangered heritage sites globally.
  • This year, the Moon is listed too, highlighting humanity’s achievements from Earth to space.
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