Travel with Rick Steves

Recent changes in the global economy are showing up now in Ireland -- which the European Union used to call one of its best examples of investing in small countries. We'll get an update on the downturn of the "Celtic Tiger," which promises to keep prices in check for visitors to Ireland this year. Rick and his experts on Ireland will take listener calls and remind us how the Emerald Isle still provides a genuine welcome, where a good story is just a pint away. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Writer Bill Holm explains how the view from his cottage on the coast of Iceland illumanates the view of his home in small town Minnesota, and contrasts American culture with that of economically-strapped Iceland. Also, from Homer, Alaska, Geo Beach inspires travelers to enjoy wintertime fun in his home state while there's still time to enjoy dog sledding and skiing. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Italy's distinctive regional cuisines are a high point for many travelers, but the disinctive customs Italians have for their food and drink sometimes baffles American visitors. Two Italian food guides chat with Rick to lay out the tenents of good everyday food -- Italian style. And, we'll help you enjoy eating like an Italian, without letting low exchange rate get in the way of enjoying authentic Italian cuisine. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Estonia is emerging from years under Soviet domination and turning into a popular destination for travelers looking to mix old world charm with the energy of the "new Europe." Join Rick as he uncovers Estonia, one of Europe's little surpises, from the medievel capital of Tallinn, to rusting ex-military bases on quiet islands in the Baltic Sea. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Rick chats with listeners about finding time for a little romance in our travels and takes calls and emails about the most romantic destinations, including the perfect place for a proposal or honeymoon. Join us for a Valentine's theme with your suggestions of favorite romantic travel destinations on the next Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Bicycles are a popular way to get around town in the Netherlands as part of the efficient Dutch culture. We're checking in on one of Europe's most well-ordered countries, including suggestions for taking in the extraordinary spring flower festivals in the Netherlands. In addition, adventure cyclist Willie Weir tells us about his ride across one of South America's least-understood countries, Colombia. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Rick explores some of the comfort foods his European friends enjoy in Paris, Madrid, and Tuscany, and shares how travelers can enjoy them during a visit to these regions. We'll get advice on preparing and eating escargot and steak tartare, get a recipe on how to mix up your own batch of sangria, and hear from listeners about some of their memorable food encounters overseas. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Helen Thayer, one of the most remarkable adventure travelers of our time, dreamed of trekking across Mongolia since she was a schoolgirl. At the age of 63, she and her husband became the first people to walk the entire length of the Gobi desert -- the long way. Find out what they learned about the desert, the local nomads they met, and the deadly dangers they faced while on foot in the Gobi for three months. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Prague has become a contender as one of Europe's most popular cities for visitors. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, two tour guides based in Prague join Rick and our listeners to describe the scene in the Czech capital. They'll offer tips on avoiding the summer flood of tourists, and how to best experience the city's substantial old world charm. We'll also explore day trips into the Bohemian countryside. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

We conclude our two-part series about Iran on the next Travel with Rick Steves... with an exploration of what the country offers as a tourist destination. Rick is joined by the Lonely Planet's "Iran" guidebook author, and by a tour organizer who specializes in the ins and outs of taking Americans thru Iran. They'll compare notes on Iranian culture, and what Westerners need to know about it. We will hear how Iran's impressive historical sites and magical cities are matched only by the country's legendary hospitality toward visitors. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.