Travel with Rick Steves

Join award-winning journalist John Branch, known for his work on extreme sports, alongside travel writer Gene Openshaw and local tour guide Holger Zimmer, as they explore the vibrant maritime city of Hamburg. Discover why this northern gem is often overlooked by Americans, its unique Hanseatic heritage, and tips for top-notch sightseeing. Delve into the thrill and mindset of extreme athletes with John, who shares insights into their risks, the adrenaline of unusual sports, and the human stories behind notorious accidents.

John Elledge, a journalist and author exploring the history of borders, shares insights on how these lines have shaped national identities. Meanwhile, Catherine Alcock, a Blue Badge guide, discusses London's urban regeneration, highlighting transformed areas like King’s Cross and Battersea Power Station. They dive into Amsterdam's vibrant museums, including quirky niche spots and the upcoming Slavery Museum. The conversation also touches on the lasting influences of historical borders, with predictions on future shifts in territories like Ukraine and Northern Ireland.

Matt Kepnes, known as Nomadic Matt, shares savvy budget travel tips, like dining away from tourist traps and using local currency for better rates. Monisha Rajesh, a train travel enthusiast, reveals the charms of the sleeper train experience and highlights her favorite routes like Norway's Arctic line. Mark Johansson, based in Santiago, debunks myths about South America, encouraging travelers to explore its vibrant culture, stunning nature, and lesser-known archaeological treasures, all while enjoying the unique local life.

Chris Johnson, president of Vesterheim, shares insights into the museum's bicentennial exhibit celebrating Norwegian-American heritage. He discusses how immigrant traditions endure and the rich history of the 1825 emigration wave. Dylan Thuras, co-founder of Atlas Obscura, explores curious locations and quirky artifacts around the globe, like hair museums and Bulgarian monuments. Listeners share amusing travel stories, from humorous language mishaps in France to magical moments in Venice, enriching our appreciation for the unexpected in travel.

Join winemaker Cecilia Bottai as she shares heartwarming Italian Christmas traditions, including nativity scenes and festive family meals in Umbria. Oslo commentator Paul Johansson brings to life the magic of Norwegian celebrations, featuring julekake, Santa Lucia, and the mischievous Nisse gnome. San Sebastián native Augustin Sirisa introduces the unique Olentzero character from the Basque Country, alongside rich holiday feasts and traditions revived post-Franco. Discover the diverse ways Europe embraces the holiday spirit!

Join Susan Cahill, a Paris expert and author of "Sacred Paris," as she illuminates the city's stunning religious architecture, revealing hidden gems from historic churches to vibrant synagogues. Igor Scamparin, a Venetian guide, shares the magic of Christmas in Venice—talking about glass-themed decorations, communal festivities, and delicious holiday foods like musetto and panettone. Their insights transport listeners to enchanting traditions, from Finland's sauna culture to Ireland’s ancient solstice rituals, painting a rich tapestry of winter celebrations.

Elaine Sciolino, a Paris-based journalist and author, reveals fascinating behind-the-scenes operations at the Louvre, including its Tuesday closures for maintenance and private tours. Richard Rhodes, the last apprentice of the Sienese Freemasons, shares ancient masonry secrets that transform stone into stunning artwork. He discusses the importance of grain orientation, aesthetic corrections in architecture, and the meditative process of chiseling stone. Their insights blend art, culture, and craftsmanship, offering a unique view into the worlds of museums and stonework.

Terry Tempest Williams, a celebrated author and conservationist, discusses the unique 'personalities' of U.S. national parks and their cultural significance. Historian Flannery Burke explores Arizona and New Mexico's identities within the Great Southwest, emphasizing their rich Native heritage and contemporary cultural dynamics. Travel writer Christopher Solomon shares thrilling tales from his mountain-bike adventure across southern Utah, celebrating the joys and challenges of backcountry exploration while advocating for outdoor accessibility.

Historian Colin Jones has managed to distill centuries of French history into just 250 pages, and he leads us through significant sights from the mighty nation's recent past. Then a veteran BBC correspondent recalls turbulent times in 1980s Afghanistan and the hotel that still stands as a symbol of the country's resilient people. And a photographer from Scotland's Hebrides describes his ongoing quest to capture the moods, light, and breathtaking beauty of his homeland. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

One of Rick's favorite Venice tour guides lets us in on changes afoot in Italy's city of dreams. Then the tireless Senior Nomads share lessons from a dozen years on the road as they unpack their suitcases and settle down for good. And a gastronomic guide invites us to dig into the best bites from across the continent. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.