Travel with Rick Steves

Eliot Stein, a journalist and travel writer, shares his thrilling experience kayaking around Manhattan, revealing hidden natural spots amidst the urban landscape. Dean Klinkenberg, a passionate author on the Mississippi River, highlights its ecological and cultural significance, drawing connections with history and local communities. TV host Samantha Brown offers invaluable travel tips to ease stress and embrace spontaneity, encouraging a joyful exploration of new places. Together, they inspire listeners to connect with nature and culture while enjoying their travels.

Canadian authors Rick Antonson and Wade Davis explore the nuanced relationship between Canada and the U.S. They discuss Canada's geography, diversity, and unique identity forged through history. The conversation highlights the spirit of cultural exchange and the importance of understanding these differences amid political tensions. Personal stories showcase Canada’s resilience and hospitality, while the significance of hockey is celebrated as a beloved cultural touchstone. They reflect on American kindness and educational resources, advocating for greater cross-border understanding.

Join renowned classicist Mary Beard, a professor at Cambridge University, as she shares captivating insights on Roman remnants outside Italy, revealing symbolisms of power and the stories of all societal layers. Hiking expert Cassandra Overby discusses the joys of home base hiking, emphasizing its benefits for connecting with local cultures and exploring Europe's stunning landscapes. They also explore Liverpool's rich cultural heritage, from its musical roots to historical significance, making it an enticing destination for everyone.

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.