Travel with Rick Steves
673a Visiting Antarctica; The Journeys of Trees; Italy's Northern Lakes
Apr 26, 2025
Julian Sancton, a travel writer and author of *Madhouse at the End of the Earth*, shares insights from his journey to Antarctica, drawing parallels to historical polar explorers. Zach St. George, journalist and author of *The Journeys of Trees*, discusses how climate change is forcing tree species to migrate and the crucial relationship between forests and humanity. The conversation also transports listeners to the stunning Northern Lakes of Italy, revealing hidden charms and the tranquil allure of Lake Garda and Lake Como.
52:00
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Quick takeaways
- A travel writer's journey to Antarctica reveals the ethical dilemmas of tourism and the continent's fragile ecosystem amid climate change.
- Experts discuss the migration of North American tree species due to rising temperatures, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.
Deep dives
Exploring Antarctica's Harsh Reality
Antarctica is characterized as the highest, driest, windiest, and coldest continent on Earth, making it extremely inhospitable to human life. The challenges of visiting this remote location are immense, requiring substantial preparation and adaptation to its harsh conditions. Writer Julian Sancton shares his firsthand experience of traveling to Antarctica while researching the Belgica expedition of the late 19th century. His journey highlights both the natural beauty of the icy landscape and the ethical dilemmas regarding tourism's impact on such a fragile environment.
