Travel with Rick Steves

Join Andres Russo, a National Geographic explorer, as he unveils the mysterious Boiling River in Peru, a geothermal marvel that could hold secrets about life's origins. Christina Pernecole, a local guide from Padova, shares insider tips on this charming town's rich history, renowned university, and picturesque proximity to Venice. Discover Hungary's thermal baths, where relaxation is a prescribed remedy, and learn how these cultural gems connect people through generations of spa traditions and communal experiences.

In this conversation, Paige McClanahan, a tourism-focused journalist and author of The New Tourist, teams up with Sophie Roberts, a seasoned journalist and author of A Training School for Elephants. They delve into the evolution of mindful tourism, advocating for culturally aware travel. The duo explores the historical exploitation of elephants and the impact of colonialism, particularly through King Leopold II's legacy. Through personal stories and insights, they emphasize the importance of slow travel and understanding Africa's rich cultural complexities.

Lali Sermon, co-author of the Rick Steves Istanbul Guidebook and boutique hotelier in Cappadocia, shares vibrant insights into Turkey's Aegean coast. She highlights its breathtaking natural beauty, rich culinary traditions, and the welcoming spirit of local vendors. The conversation also explores ancient wonders like Troy and Pergamon, along with Ephesus’ biblical significance. Transitioning to Florence’s art scene and the laid-back charm of Tuscany, Lali wraps up by uncovering lesser-known Danish destinations outside Copenhagen, emphasizing cultural richness and local attractions.

Robert Edsel, a historian and author known for his work on the Monuments Men, shares touching narratives about American servicemen and their lasting bonds with Dutch citizens post-WWII. David McCullough reflects on the 19th-century American journey to Paris, showcasing how artists and thinkers transformed American culture with their European experiences. The podcast emphasizes gratitude, remembering sacrifices of the past, and the powerful cultural exchanges between America and France that shaped history.

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.