Travel with Rick Steves

Catie Marron, author of 'Becoming a Gardener,' shares her heartfelt journey of cultivating a garden that helped her find belonging in her new home. She highlights how gardening evokes emotional connections and personal fulfillment. Meanwhile, Alan Lightman, a theoretical physicist from MIT, discusses the vital role of unstructured time in fostering creativity and well-being, urging listeners to embrace moments of 'wasting time' as a counterbalance to our fast-paced lives. Together, they explore the therapeutic power of nature and silence.

Mark Johansson, a U.S.-born travel writer living in Santiago, shares his profound journey through Chile’s Atacama Desert, exploring its extreme conditions and rich cultural heritage against the backdrop of personal and political turmoil. The conversation also takes a deep dive into the stunning history of Scotland’s castles, emphasizing their significance as clan centers and historical landmarks. Listeners also join in to share their travel tales and inspirations, highlighting the transformative power of travel.

Oneika Raymond, a seasoned travel writer and TV correspondent who has explored over 100 countries, shares her favorite destinations that celebrate cultural connections for Black women travelers. Meanwhile, Eugene Cho, CEO of Bread for the World, discusses urgent advocacy efforts to combat hunger amid cuts to U.S. aid programs. The conversation also explores Poland's dynamic culture, from its rich history and architecture to its modern role as a refuge for those in need.

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.

Learn about the customs that Greeks observe as Orthodox Easter draws near. Then contemplate the massive undertaking of building a cathedral centuries ago and how these monuments to faith and devotion helped shape their locales. And get acquainted with southern Spain's elaborate Semana Santa observances, which fill the streets of Andalucía in the week leading up to Easter. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nicholas Kristof, known for his impactful reporting from conflict zones, shares gripping anecdotes about the realities of foreign correspondence. British journalist John Elledge reveals how borders, shaped by history and often arbitrary, affect identity and global politics. They delve into the elegance of Spain's high-speed rail system, transforming travel, and discuss practical tips for navigating cultural challenges abroad, emphasizing the importance of human connections formed through travel.

Paul Theroux, celebrated author known for his global travel narratives, reflects on aging and creativity as he celebrates his 84th birthday. He shares insights from his new short-story collection, 'The Vanishing Point.' Martin Sheen, iconic Hollywood actor, discusses how his international filming experiences have shaped his views on social justice and activism. Together, they explore the transformative power of travel, personal growth, and the interconnectedness of human stories across cultures.

In this lively discussion, Peter Fiennes, former Time Out publisher and author, shares insights on the evolution of guidebooks, highlighting their enduring charm amidst digital trends. Jack E. Davis, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, explores the Gulf of Mexico's ecological significance and its influence on American identity. Gene Openshaw delves into the rich tapestry of European art, emphasizing often-overlooked periods like the Dark Ages and the profound connections between art and travel. Together, they celebrate the stories that enrich our journeys.

A tour guide from Greece delves into the importance of food, family, and traditions in his homeland. Then a Francophile offers advice on how to take on the vast collection of the world's largest — and arguably greatest — museum. And guidebook researcher Cameron Hewitt shares discoveries from his travels in the Balkans, an affordable and rewarding alternative to the tourist crowds of western Europe. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Two countrymen explore Ireland's reverence for their national poet, W. B. Yeats. Then a Dublin journalist shares what it was like to grow up amid the turbulent societal changes in his city during the 1960s and '70s. And a guide from Belfast tells us why an Emerald Isle itinerary should include a visit to Northern Ireland. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.