Author: Rick Steves
Running Time: 53 Min.
Offered: Weekly
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
Travel with Rick Steves Podcast
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
A weekly one-hour conversation with guest experts and callers about travel, cultures, people, and the things we find around the world that give life its extra sparkle. Rick Steves is America's leading authority on travel to Europe and beyond. Host and writer of over a hundred public television travel shows and author of 30 best-selling guidebooks, Rick now brings his passion for exploring and understanding our world to public radio. Related travel information and message boards on www.ricksteves.com.
About Podcasting:
For those of you new to podcasting, Click Here to read our "Introduction to Podcasting" Article.
 Write a Review of Travel with Rick Steves Podcast
| Podcast Feed URL: |
Podcast Website:
http://www.ricksteves.com/
Midnight In Paris; Hidden Gardens of Paris; Richard Wiese: Born to Explore
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 12, 2012
Rick speaks with Parisians who inspire travelers to explore their city, from its relaxing parks and public spaces to late night strolls and memorable dinners. Also, Richard Wiese, one of today's most adventurous scientist-explorers, shares how his passion for exploring the natural world has taken him on research projects to the North Pole and the hottest place on earth.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
 Download File - 1.9 MB
 Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Pilgrimage of Annie Leibovitz; Open Phones: Extraordinary Travels
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 05, 2012
Photographer Annie Leibovitz talks about her pilgrimage to the homes of famous people from our history across the United States and describes what it meant to zoom in on the places and objects from the icons of our culture. Also, Rick checks in with listeners for ideas on planning extraordinary travels.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Richard Ellis: Polar Bears on Thin Ice; Open Phones: Travel Reports
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 29, 2012
Marine wildlife expert Richard Ellis explains how the loss of the ice cap in the Arctic is accelerating, why wildlife in the region cannot adapt to the effects of global warming, and why this should matter to everyone. Also, Rick takes listener calls for stories of lessons learned when immersed in another culture.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Offbeat Turkey: Historical Dives and Exploring the East; Richard Grant's Crazy Adventures In East Africa
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 22, 2012
Guides from Turkey dive into underwater archeology along with sights of Eastern Turkey and adventure traveler Richard Grant explores East Africa in search of the fabled source of the Nile River.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Two Sides of Mexico: From the Drug War in the North to the Mundo Maya in the South
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 15, 2012
Ed Vulliamy investigates the escalating bloodshed from drug gangs in Northern Mexico and shares what he found in a "post-political" war zone, where few outsiders dare to tread. But Mexico is a big country, so Rick also explores this year's special tourism emphasis around an ancient Mayan prophesy, which is is fostering a deeper interest in the indigenous culture in the south.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Steve Inskeep's Foreign Intelligence; Vienna a la Fred Plotkin; Open Phones: Travel Resolutions
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 08, 2012
Steve Inskeep assesses international news coverage in the U.S. media, Fred Plotkin describes why Vienna is one of his favorite cities, and listeners share resolutions for enjoying other cultures — even from the comfort of their own kitchen.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Winter In Paris; International New Years Party
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 01, 2012
Rick uncovers holiday traditions from such places as Sicily and Croatia, Scotland and Brazil and gets suggestions for enjoying winter in Paris from a couple of local guides.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
International Christmas Party
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 25, 2011
Rick celebrates Christmas with friends from near and far, hearing about holiday traditions from Holland and Hungary, Sicily and Scotland, learning about the unique ways people light up the season in Santa Fe, and discovering how scientists at a research station in Antarctica make merry, plus listeners share some of their favorite Christmas memories from holiday travels.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Christmas Prep 2
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 18, 2011
Rick is introduced to Santa's European relatives including Baba Noël, Grandfather Frost, Saint Nicholas, Krampus, and even Sammi Claus and Schwartzley. Also friends from Madrid, Rome, London and Lisbon discuss their cities' traditions for the Christmas season, and Rick learns how the holidays are celebrated in Bulgaria, the Swiss Alps, Austria and the Low Countries.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Listener Feedback; Agriturismos In Italy; Key West
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 11, 2011
It's a tropical party town that hosted some of America's best known writers. William McKeen explains the appeal of Key West during its artistic heyday of the 1970s, and as a resort town today. We'll also explore the advantages of staying at a farmhouse "agriturismo" in Italy, as a relaxing alternative to the busy city scene. And Rick shares listener comments from recent shows.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Race to the South Pole; Karachi for Travelers; Changing Dutch Society
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 04, 2011
Rick checks in with a Norwegian team skiing across Antarctica to commemorate the trek of countryman Roald Amundsen; plus, NPR's Steve Inskeep shares what he discovered in the urban muddle of Karachi, Pakistan, and a journalist from The Netherlands outlines political changes on the Dutch horizon.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Pilot's Advice to Reduce Travel Stress; Jane & Michael Stern's 'Road Food USA'
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 27, 2011
Jane and Michael Stern share their findings on the best Road Food and authentic regional food specialties they've found around the country and Rick gets a view from the cockpit on ways to help reduce the stress factors associated with flying.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Food Adventures; Going Casual; Travel Reports from Challenged Places
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 20, 2011
Rick explores the flavorful benefits of street food vendors and decidedly unfancy hang outs and checks in with listener travel reports from the tsunami zone in northeast Japan, as well as Mexico City and East Timor.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Sojourning Further; Being Human; Turkish Nomads
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 13, 2011
Rick checks in with Reverend Jim Wallis and with "The Darwinian Tourist" to discover what they've learned from their travels to far away lands; hears how life is changing for nomadic sheep herders in Turkey; and celebrates cyclist Willie Weir's birthday in Portugal.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Paris Art Scene; Irish Writers; Michelangelo's Florence
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 06, 2011
Rick discovers the high form of art in Ireland, language, where the works of poets and playwrights add color to parks and pubs. Plus, he gets tips for enjoying speciality museums in Paris, and explores how growing up in Renaissance-era Florence shaped Michelangelo into one of the greatest artists of all time.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Saving Paris Art; Malta; Open Phones: Haunted Europe
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 30, 2011
Rick learns about the extraordinary measures taken by the citizens of Paris in 1939 to protect thousands of priceless art treasures at the Louvre from the coming Nazi invaders and is introduced to the nation of Malta; listeners share stories about the haunted places they've visited in Europe.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Open Phones: Looking Up Ancestors in Europe; Irish Roots; Highlights of the Low Countries
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 23, 2011
Rick checks in with European tour guides on researching family history in Ireland; listeners discuss meeting relatives in Sweden and Lithuania; and Low Countries Belgium and the Netherlands, where cozy medieval cities or bike rides to the sea are just a short ride away, are examined.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Lunatic Express; Open Phones: Travel Discoveries
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 16, 2011
Carl Hoffman explains what it was like to travel the world on the most notorious, over-crowded trains, planes, busses and ferries — the way most of the planet gets from one city to another. And listeners share their own travel discoveries and suggestions for seeing the world.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Open Phones: Visiting France; Regions of Germany; Cappadocia
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 09, 2011
Guides from Turkey tell us about the surreal scenery of Cappadocia, where you can glide over an endless panorama of colorful "fairy chimneys," or duck your head in a labyrinth of underground cave cities, decorated with Byzantine murals.
We'll also get acquainted with the regional distinctions of modern Germany, and Rick takes listener calls about their favorite parts of France.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Understanding the French
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 02, 2011
We continue our exploration of the differences between French and American culture, with the help of a local tour guide who contrasts the expectations of American and French tourists. Also, a journalist based in Paris returns to delve deeper into understanding the seductive nature of the French.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
From Tuscany to Tango; Finnish Sauna
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 25, 2011
Ferenc Mate shares lessons from 20 years in Tuscany, where he and his wife went to turn a 13th century building into their dream home; Camille Cusumano explains how a passion for the tango made her relocate to Buenos Aires; and Fred Plotkin describes the simple pleasure of a cleansing sauna in Finland.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Western Whitewater Adventures; A Readers Grand Tour; Tapas in Spain
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 18, 2011
A seasoned river guide explains how a camping trip down the Colorado River can be a life altering experience; Nancy Pearl recommends more of her favorite books for armchair adventures; and two guides from Madrid explain the protocol for enjoying local specialties.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Poetry After 9/11; Paul Theroux's Tao of Travel
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 11, 2011
Paul Theroux commemorates fifty years of adventures by comparing notes with Rick on how best to engage with the world and the editors of "Poetry After 9-11" discuss how New Yorkers are dealing with the shock of the September 11th attacks ten years later by composing poetry.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Medieval Castles-Old and New; American Nobleman in Prague
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 04, 2011
Rick learns how medieval castles are being built by hand in France and Arkansas, and gets a closer look at how castles functioned in ancient times. Also, William Lobkowicz, American heir to one of Europe's most famous royal families, shares stories of overseeing his family's palace, castles, and treasures in Prague.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Misadventures of Rolf Potts; Open Phones: Budget Eating Tricks
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 28, 2011
Rolf Potts shares his misadventures in Turkey and Libya, and describes how he looks for treasure in towns around the world, including one unassuming hamlet off I-70 in central Kansas. Also, listeners offer tips on good eating, within a travel budget, while vacationing overseas.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Potsdam; Athens; Open Phones: Favorite Cities
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 21, 2011
Rick explores the historical riches of Potsdam, Germany and dicusses how Athens has grown into a visitor-friendly destination, complete with a new Acropolis museum. Also, adventure cyclist Willie Weir joins Rick from his favorite square in Madrid, and listeners nominate favorite cities to explore.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Building the Berlin Wall; The Mongol Rally; The Darwinian Tourist
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 14, 2011
Rick looks back fifty years to when the Berlin Wall was built, and discusses with a Berliner what it meant to split the city in half. Also, two participants from a madcap road race from London to Mongolia explain what it's like to finish the Mongol Rally in one piece. Also, a biologist explains how travelers can examine the natural world through the eyes of a Darwinian Tourist.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
More Summer Road Food USA; Interstate-75 Road Trip; Richard Bangs' Adventures
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 07, 2011
Jane and Michael Stern inspire travelers with tales of finding classic American dishes with a regional twist; author Dave Hunter offers tips for navigating Interstate-75 between Michigan and Florida; and Richard Bangs dishes on how adventure travel can change the way you view the world.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Rome Beneath the Surface
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 31, 2011
Rick is joined by a tour guide raised in Rome who knows her city inside out. We'll check in on the city's now-trendy Jewish Ghetto, get practical tips for planning a visit, and hear what some of our listeners have discovered in Rome.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Flirtatious France; Walk Across Israel
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 24, 2011
Two American journalists explain what they've discovered by living in Paris, and by walking across Israel. Elaine Sciolino explains the many ways seduction operates as part of day to day life in France. Also, Martin Fletcher describes what a good long walk down the coast of Israel showed him after 30 years of reporting from the Middle East.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Going Beyond: Composer Sites in Europe; Portugal Beyond Lisbon; Food Adventures
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 17, 2011
Hear how attending a performance at one of Europe's great concert venues can add to your enjoyment of classical music. A guide from Portugal introduces us to some of the high points away from Lisbon. Also, travel writer Don George shares stories of life-changing food adventures around the world.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Off the Grid in Mexico; Baltic Cities; Paul Theroux's Dark Star Safari
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 10, 2011
Paul Theroux describes what a trip the length of Africa taught him, 40 years after serving with the Peace Corps in a village in Malawi. Frugal Traveler Seth Kugel tells us what it was like to spend a week in a small Mexican town he picked at random, off the tourist grid. And Neil Taylor explains how much the Baltic countries have brightened up in 20 years, since they shook off Soviet Communism.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Running a Summer Crepe Stand in France; Washington DC Insider; National Parks in the USA
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 03, 2011
Ken Burns explains why he thinks the National Parks are some of the best things about the United States; a Washington D.C. guide offers tips for enjoying the Nation's Capital like the locals do; and Rick discovers what it's like to run a summer crepe stand on the coast of France.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Fred Plotkin's Finland; Greece & Turkey: Uneasy Cousins?
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 26, 2011
Rick discusses the tensions behind Greece and Turkey's tumultuous relationship with two women from Greece and Turkey, and travel writer Fred Plotkin shares why Finland is one of his favorite places, especially when the midnight sun produces some of the sweetest berries you'll find anywhere.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Europe On A Student's Budget
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 19, 2011
Rick chats with his son, Andy Steves, a recent college grad who's learned a few tricks of his own for low-cost travel options in Europe. We'll also check in with the owners of dorm-style lodgings in Northern Ireland and the Swiss Alps, to get a glimpse inside the world of hostelling.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
A Proper English Hour: Home, High Tea, and Jane Austen's England
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 12, 2011
Bill Bryson examines private life during the Victorian age; London guide Britt Lonsdale explains how to enjoy a proper afternoon tea service; and screenwriter Andrew Davies shares his appreciation for the works of Jane Austen, whose books about the gentle folk of rural England were first published 200 years ago.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
America's Best Zoos; Dutch Society From the Inside Out
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 05, 2011
We'll look at what makes one expert's list for the best zoos in America. And to better understand how one European country stands apart from the rest, we've invited two guides from the Netherlands to explain how the Dutch get along in their densely-packed and efficient country, where millions live below sea level.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Mexico City
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 29, 2011
In terms of culture, history, street life and great food Mexico City is the western hemisphere's equal to many of Europe's great cities — and one of the largest cities in the world. Two former New Yorkers tell us why they were charmed by Mexico City, why they moved there, and wrote guides to help visitors enjoy it, too.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Hungarian Countryside; Scottish Highlands and Islands
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 22, 2011
We're heading past the major cities to explore the countryside of both Hungary and Scotland. We'll find out why Lake Balaton has been a favorite getaway for Hungarian families for years. Also, we'll recognize where in Scotland's Highlands and western islands you can taste a spiritual energy — along with a good whisky — far from the tourist crowds.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Contemporary EU Issues; Lesser-Known Paris Museums
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 15, 2011
Learn how Europeans are dealing with current economic challenges, and why their approach differs from their American cousins. Also, a Paris-based guide joins Rick to suggest venues where you can get a real taste of Medieval and Impressionist art.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Cross-Cultural Family in Italy; Sicilian Vacation
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 08, 2011
What would your life be like if you fell in love overseas, got married, and started to raise a family in another culture? Find out how it works for American Lisa Anderson, who's raising two boys in her husband's hometown in northern Italy. Also, two guides who specialize in Sicily explain why the Mediterranean's largest island is growing in popularity as a vacation destination.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Urge to Preserve: British Banter, Holy Bones, & Inspired Globe-Jotting
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 01, 2011
Rick explores the slang that separates Brits from their American cousins in an attempt to help travelers avoid being "gob-smacked" by what the locals might say, or labeled as a "plonker." We'll also examine how relics of many kinds have changed the world and share tips for making travel journals a fun and important way to preserve vacation memories.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Footsteps of Martin Luther; Orthodox Easter
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 24, 2011
Retracing Luther's trek from Germany to Rome, a Lutheran pastor and her husband explain how they traveled as a way to encourage harmony among religious groups in the 21st century. We'll also hear how Orthodox Christians in Bulgaria and Greece get ready for Easter and why it's their biggest holiday of the year.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Simon Winchester's Atlantic; Jim Wallis' Travels
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 17, 2011
Simon Winchester describes what he's learned about the world's busiest ocean, the Atlantic, and the many stories it still has to tell. And Reverend Jim Wallis describes how venturing to war zones and even to the "other side of the tracks" can change your perspective on the world.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Ken Burns and the American Civil War; Nancy Pearl's Armchair Travels
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 10, 2011
Filmmaker Ken Burns joins Rick to discuss the American Civil War and what the research for his documentary series taught him. Also, Nancy Pearl recommends favorite armchair travel books and authors who have a gift for conveying the real atmosphere of a foreign place.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Changing Face of London; Royal Wedding; Turkish Wedding Traditions
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 03, 2011
Neil Taylor discusses how the streets of London are gaining an international flavor with a growing immigrant population and Rick gets a local perspective on the upcoming Royal Wedding at Westminster Abbey, including tips on experiencing royal traditions while sightseeing. Also, two tour guides from Turkey describe the customs they're observing as they get ready for their own wedding day, and how they aim to keep everyone happy.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Drying the Blue Nile; Naples and Nearby
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 27, 2011
Adventure traveler Richard Bangs discusses the water rights dispute he found surrounding the source of the Blue Nile in Ethiopia when he thought he was going whitewater rafting, and guides from southern Italy describe the energetic attractions Naples, and its nearby coastal and island resorts.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Polar Witness: The Last Polar Bear; Penguins on the Brink
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 20, 2011
Wilderness photographer Steven Kazlowski joins Rick to describe how climate change is impacting Polar Bears as well as the wildlife and Native people of the Arctic. Also, author Fen Montaigne explains what he witnessed at a penguin research station about the rapid warming on the Antarctic Peninsula.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Ireland's County Cork; Rolf Potts: Around the World Luggage-Free
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 13, 2011
Irish tour guide Barry Moloney talks of his home turf in Cork, long considered the "rebel south" of Ireland, now gaining a reputation for gastronomy, and travel writer Rolf Potts describes how he was able to journey around the world for six weeks without any luggage and still have fun.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Paul Theroux and the Peace Corps; The Frugal Traveler's Latin America
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 06, 2011
We commemorate the early days of the Peace Corps with travel writer Paul Theroux, who served as a teacher in Africa in 1963. He'll also share his perspective on when foreign aid does and does not work. Also, Seth Kugel shares highlights from his inaugural trip as the Frugal Traveler for the New York Times when he spent 13 weeks on a budget to see the sights from Brazil to New York by way of Bolivia, Colombia, Guatemala and Nicaragua.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Jeff Greenwald's Nepal; Open Phones: Spirit-Lifting Travels
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 27, 2011
Travel writer Jeff Greenwald returns to Nepal every year, where ancient Hindu and Buddhist customs are challenged by modern pressures and recent political turmoil. Jeff joins us to describe how much the scene is changing in Nepal, as well as what's timeless about the Himalayan culture, and keeps him going back year after year. We'll also check in with listeners for travel reports about destinations that lift the spirit.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Alps Skiing; The Monuments Men Today
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 20, 2011
Rick chats with one of the original "Monuments Men," a German-born Jew whose family escaped to America and now helps repatriate the treasures of Europe from the caves and castles where the plunder was stashed and later gets tips for planning ski trips to the Alps, where the slopes have some of the most impressive vertical drops anywhere.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Scent Trail; Open Phones: More Kindness of Strangers
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 13, 2011
We're exploring the perfect souvenir for the person who already has everything. Celia Lyttelton describes how she traveled the world to collect the ingredients for creating her own perfect personal perfume. She explains the powerful connection fragrances have between places, memories, and our emotions. Also, travel writer Don George and callers share stories of how the kindness of strangers saved the day in their overseas travels.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Paris Cafes; Celtic Singing Cultures
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 06, 2011
Enjoy Paris like a Parisian as two local guides join us to explain how cafes work as a part of daily life for Parisians, and how visitors can enjoy them, too. Also, guides from Ireland and Wales underscore the reason singing is so important in their cultures, and how the music traditions differ among themselves.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Open Phones: Travel Tricks; Lesser-Known Italy: Fred Plotkin's Friuli-Venezia Giulia; Restoring a Farmhouse in Italy's La Marche
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 30, 2011
Rick discusses basic budget tricks for getting travelers up close to amazing places and people who inhabit them. Also, Italy food expert Fred Plotkin explains why he finds the northeast corner of Italy one of the best places in the world for pairing fine wine with flavorful food, and two tour guides explain how they turn old farmhouses into dream homes in the un-touristed region of Italy called La Marche.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Brazil on a Budget; Croatian Vacation
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 23, 2011
The Frugal Traveler for the New York Times joins us with advice for enjoying Sao Paolo, Rio and the Amazon on a budget. Also, with a history dating back to the 7th century, Croatia has yet to see 20 years as an independent nation. A sense of optimism comes with the stunning scenery and visitor-friendly coast, where Slavic culture meets the Mediterannean.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Eccentric Islands; Backstreet Istanbul
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 16, 2011
The busy city of Istanbul has grown to be the home and cultural centerpiece for millions of Turks. It's also turning into a popular destination for visitors to witness many layers of history on the edge of Europe and Asia. We're detouring into the backstreets of Istanbul, with suggestions for enjoying the city like the locals do — from corners of the Grand Bazaar that tourists often miss, to the romantic traffic-free islands just off the coast. We'll also pay tribute to the late writer Bill Holm, who shared his thoughts about "eccentric islands" with Rick.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Food Specialties; Eating Saigon
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 09, 2011
What appears gross to one person, is sometimes a gourmet delicacy for another. Rick puts our appetites to the test as an entrée to understanding a culture while two guides who specialize in gourmet travels from their home base in Tuscany describe the comfort foods of Western Europe and travel writer David Farley tells us about his recent foodie trip to Saigon.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Waltzing Vienna; The Trip that Changed Me; Africa Road Trip
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 02, 2011
Listeners share memories of trips that made lasting impressions and opened up a world unknown to many Americans, including one man's summer road trip down the length of East Africa. And we'll see how easy it is to celebrate the New Year, waltzing in style at one of the season's elegant balls in Vienna.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Christmas, Part 3 (Greece, Ulster, Umbria); New Year's in Sweden, Portugal, Spain, Croatia, Belgium, Wales, Scotland
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 26, 2010
Rick celebrates the holidays by exploring the distinctive ways people observe the Christmas season in Greece, Italy and Ireland and preparing to greet the New Year like locals in Spain, Portugal, Sweden, Croatia, Wales and Scotland.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Christmas Preparations, Part 2
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 19, 2010
Friends from Madrid, Rome, Lisbon, and London tell us about their cities' holiday traditions, and we'll check in on Bulgaria, Switzerland and Austria, plus a listener report about the big Christmas market in Nuremburg, Germany. Get to know such characters as Baba Noël, Grandfather Frost, the Cristkind, Saint Nicholas, Krampus, Sammi Claus and Schwartzley, and expand your holidays with us 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Christmas Prep, Part 1: Croatia, Sweden, Belgium, Italian Riviera & The West of Ireland; Enjoying Winter In Paris
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 12, 2010
Join us for Part 1 of this year's European Christmas series as we discuss holiday traditions in Croatia, Sweden, Belgium, the Italian Riviera and the rural West of Ireland. and get tips on enjoying Paris in the winter from two locals.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Bill Bryson at Home; Antiquities and Archeology; Open Phones: Budget Travel Tricks
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 05, 2010
Bill Bryson found the ultimate bargain travel destination, by staying home to get acquainted with the 19th century English parsonage he lives in. We'll glimpse into just how much the comforts of home have changed in only a few generations' time. We'll also make sense out of the rubble of antiquity with the help of guides from Greece and Egypt. Listeners offer their tips for saving money on a place to call home on your next vacation to Europe.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Art in Italy
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 28, 2010
Gene Openshaw, co-author of Europe 101, joins Rick to discuss how art can change the way people view the world and certified guides from Rome and Florence share ideas for discovering new ways to look at masterpieces in Italy.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Whiskey Trail; More British Slang
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 21, 2010
Kate Hopkins, "The Accidental Hedonist," shares what she learned about whiskey while visiting distilleries across Ireland, Scotland, Canada and Appalachia and Chris Rae investigates the slang that's familiar to Brits, but drives the rest of us bonkers.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Even More Road Food; Lisbon City Guide
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 14, 2010
Listeners share unforgettable taste treats from their travels while Jane and Michael Stern suggest even more classic American road food worth writing home about. And two Lisbon guides describe the highlights Portugal's capital, where there's always time to be friendly, and a great view around the corner.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Getting Around Europe: Bike Touring; Driving a Tour Bus on the Continent; Walking Across England
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 07, 2010
Rick explores the various ways to see the countryside in Europe, from bike touring at your own pace, to taking the driver's seat on a tour bus, and hiking the English countryside on centuries-old trails.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Lunatic Express; Open Phones: Travel Discoveries
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 31, 2010
Carl Hoffman describes his experiences traveling on the most notorious, over-crowded trains, planes, busses and ferries from India to the Andes and listeners share their own travel discoveries and suggestions for seeing the world.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
More Geography of Bliss; Open Phones: Travel Fears and Advice
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 24, 2010
Eric Weiner describes what he discovered during his year of researching how people in different countries define happiness and listeners share how they've learned to conquer fear of the unknown in overseas travels.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
British B and Bs; Aegean Turkey; An Ounce of Prevention
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 17, 2010
Rick explores the benefits of Britain's bed-and-breakfast system, gets a taste of seaside fun and classical culture along the west coast of Turkey and receives tips from a travel medicine epert on what precautions to take before venturing into the developing world.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Seasons of Italy: Fred Plotkin, and Listener Discoveries
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 10, 2010
Fred Plotkin, the author of the newly-updated "Italy for the Gourmet Traveler," explains how knowing what food is in season is important to the Italian way of life. And we'll check in with listeners who have stories of what they discovered while on vacation in Italy.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Walking Across Paris; Hidden Gardens of Paris
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 03, 2010
Parisian guides offer suggestions on the best ways to explore the city on foot — including how to avoid the crush of rush hour on the Metro — and a Paris-based New York Times journalist shares favorite hideaways among the many quiet, hidden gardens scattered around the city.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Tony Horwitz: Rediscovering the New World; Sailing to Antarctica
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 26, 2010
Columbus was just one in a long line of trans-Atlantic travelers. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, travel writer Tony Horwitz retraces the North American routes of 16th century explorers, and how they changed America before the big waves of European settlers arrived. And sailing expert Anthony Sandberg reveals what we'll find in today's hot spot for discovery - Antarctica.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
From Tango to Tuscany: Ferenc Mate in Tuscany; Camille Cusumano in Buenos Aires
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 19, 2010
Ferenc Máté tells us what he's learned from 20 years in Tuscany, where he and his wife went to turn a 13th century building into their dream home. Camille Cusumano also joins Rick to explain how a passion for tango led her to live in Buenos Aires and re-awaken her spirit.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Lord Alderdice: Road Maps to Peace
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 12, 2010
Lord Alderdice, one of the key political figures who helped bring peace to Northern Ireland, provides us with a look at the personal reasons that fuel political conflict and provoke terrorist acts. He shares his approach for addressing the tensions that face the United States and its allies today, with suggestions for overcoming terrorism and designing "road maps to peace." For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
More Western Whitewater; More Smithsonian DC; Open Phones
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 05, 2010
Join Rick for stories about how a whitewater river expedition in the western U.S. can be a life-altering experience -- even if you're over age 50. And for city adventures, we'll explore how to best take in the art and culture at Smithsonian's 17 museums in Washington D-C.
Rick also checks in with listeners and shares tips for getting out into the world. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
A Brilliant Teacher; Southern California Sidetrips
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 29, 2010
The Rhine family of Salem, Oregon explains how they came closer together and what they learned while immersing themselves in a variety of cultures. Also, Rick checks in with a Lonely Planet author who has tips on finding the world, and family fun, in Southern California, and listeners send us their haiku about Seattle. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Barcelona; Michelangelo in Rome
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 22, 2010
With the help of two expert guides to Spain, we'll explore trendy Barcelona where the works of modern artists such as Picasso, Gaudí, and Dalí are a highlight of any visit. Also, travel blogger Angela Nickerson shares the highlights from researching her book "A Journey into Michelangelo's Rome."
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Elizabeth Gilbert's Committed to 'Eat, Pray, Love;' Notorious Royal Marriages; Michelangelo in Florence
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 15, 2010
Elizabeth Gilbert shares what she's learned about life's most important relationships. Author Leslie Carroll unveils some of the juicy scandals from "Notorious Royal Marriages." Also art history expert William Wallace discusses the early influences Michelangelo had in his hometown of Florence, and what you can still see of it today. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Open Phones: Sick in Europe; Swedish Vacation; Istanbul By Night
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 08, 2010
Guides from Stockholm and Istanbul tell us how to get back to nature in the Swedish countryside, and ideas for enjoying a night on the town in Istanbul -- even during Ramadan. Rick also checks in with listeners about their experiences dealing with medical problems while visiting Europe. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Hungary: Beyond Budapest
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 01, 2010
Join Rick as we explore options for getting beyond the busy capital of Budapest and into the heart of Europe in the countryside of Hungary. Tour guide Peter Polczman takes your calls to highlight the scenic Danube Bend, Lake Balaton, and the winemaking center of Eger, known for its strong "bull's blood" wine. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Open Phones: Favorite Road Trips; Summer Roadfood; Whitewater Rafting
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 25, 2010
Rick swaps tales of both American and European road trips; Road Food experts Jane and Michael Stern offer new tips for digging into local specialties; and a longtime river guide shares the thrill of a whitewater adventure. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Italy Faux Pas; Tuscany versus Umbria
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 18, 2010
Two locally-based guides help melt the age-old rivalries between the regions of Tuscany and its neighbor Umbria in Italy and take a closer look at what makes both such clasic destinations for exploring Italy's scenic small towns and countryside. Plus Rick checks in with listeners for reports of faux pas and misunderstandings, and what they learned from their travels. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Affordable London; Ancient Britain
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 11, 2010
London guides Gillian Chadwick and Tom Hooper discuss the many free activities that make London a top-notch city for visitors. Plus, Rick and British history expert Roy Nicholls describe mysterious sites from ancient and prehistoric times in England worthy of a look.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Spirit Of America: Smithsonian DC; America From the Air; The Butterflies of Grand Canyon
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 04, 2010
Explore the spirit of America with Rick as guides from the Museum of American History prep for a patriotic pilgrimage to the sights in the nation's capitol, a novelist reveals how the overwhelming beauty of Grand Canyon inspires her writing, and a geologist explains what really comes into view through the window of domestic flights. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Intrepid Adventurers: Richard Starks & Miriam Murcutt; Harry Rutstein & Marco Polo
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 27, 2010
Richard Starks and Miriam Murcutt's assignment to chart a strange river in the jungles of Venezuela turned into an adventure complete with poisoned arrows and guerilla kidnappers that almost did them in. Also, Harry Rutstein shares his three expeditions retracing Marco Polo's legendary trade route to China. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Christopher Baker's Costa Rica
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 20, 2010
Christopher Baker, one of today's top travel writers, describes the "pura vida" that makes Costa Rica, with seaside resorts on two coasts, an active volcano travlers can safely watch while sipping a nightcap, rainforest and jungle expeditions, and more species of birds and butterflies than almost anywhere else on earth is Central America's most popular destination. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Touring Portugal; Open Phones: Making Friends
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 13, 2010
Two guides from Lisbon describe what makes Portugal distinctive today, and share itinerary suggestions for a country that used to be a colonial powerhouse but is now a bargain "backdoor" destination for travelers wanting to enjoy a Mediterranean-style climate without the crowds. Also, Rick opens the phones to share stories of how to connect with the locals in our travels. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Stockholm, Sweden; Alexandria, Egypt
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 06, 2010
Marita Bergman explains the rituals Swedes enjoy to accompany the long days marking the start of summer. Also, tour guide Colin Clement describes what drew him to make Alexandria, Egypt his home. He'll tell us what remains visible from the city's prominent role in the ancient world, and how it contrasts with Cairo today as Egypt's "second city." For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
More Roadfood USA; Brittany and Normandy
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 30, 2010
Road Food experts Jane and Michael Stern discuss the best places to find good ol' American breakfasts, hamburgers, or pie a la mode and tour guides from Brittany share tips for a road trip through the villages and battle sites in Northwestern France. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
An Artist's Safari in Africa; Overseas Travel Medicine
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 23, 2010
We're looking at African wildlife eye to eye, through the perspective of Fred Krakowiak, a wildlife painter who shares his love for Africa with us in his vivid descriptions of a safari. Rick will also interview Doctor Edward Chapnick, the head of travel medicine at a major hospital in Brooklyn. Dr. Chapnick answers questions about precautions you need to take for visits to lesser developed countries, as well as the plane ride over. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Portugal's Radical Drug Policy; Blissful Bhutan
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 16, 2010
The policies of Portugal and Bhutan are on the agenda. We'll talk to the man who authored Portugal's law that dropped criminal penalties against all narcotics users. He'll explain what the intention of the revamped policy was, and how it's actually working out after nearly ten years.
And the Himalayan country of Bhutan has strict rules that only allow a small number of escorted tourists in each year. We'll hear how the country that just got TV and the internet in the last decade makes it a priority to promote "gross national happiness." For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Frances Mayes: 20 Years Under the Tuscan Sun
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 09, 2010
Frances Mayes joins Rick to reflect on 20 years of living "Under the Tuscan Sun" -- and how getting in tune with living in Italy can change your sense of time and even help prioritize what matters most in life. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Exploring the English Countryside; Chopin 200 in Poland
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 02, 2010
From stately gardens and picturesque villages to pre-historic stone circles and hillsides haunted by wild ponies, Rick explores the small towns and shires of England and options for touring the enchanting countryside. And, the people of Poland prepare to celebrate the 200th birthday of native son Frydryk Chopin. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Munich and Bavaria; Open Phones: Faux Pas in Germany
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 25, 2010
A local Munich guide describes how laid-back, traditional Bavaria, where pretzels and beer combine with legendary castles and fairy tale scenery, plays host to some important anniversaries this year including Oktoberfest and Passion Play. Plus, listeners describe some of their memorable faux-pas experiences in Germany. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Earthy Bulgaria; Planet Ice
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 18, 2010
A native-born guide describes how ancient traditions cross paths with post-Soviet capitalist energy, and the stuffed pepper is king in Bulgaria. Also, nature photographer James Martin shares what he discovered about the world's icy environments -- from the North and South Poles to the Himalayas. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Istanbul City Guide
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 11, 2010
After many centuries, Istanbul still one of the world's greatest and largest cities where neighborhoods retain an intimate character and echoes of past generations remain evident in its narrow streets and ornate monuments. Tan and Lale Aran join Rick and take listener calls for a full hour devoted to Turkey's capital. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Beer In Europe; An Irreverent Curiosity
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 04, 2010
Appreciate beer like a European along with Rick in a session comparing the beers and cultures of Europe. Travel writer David Farley also tells us about an eccentric hill town, not far from Rome. It's where a generation of Bohemian residents share space with a centuries-old mystery about a relic the Vatican would rather not talk about. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Peloponnesian Greece; Michelangelo: The Artist and His Times
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 28, 2010
The essence of ancient Greece is actually an easy drive from the busy city of Athens. We're looking at the pleasures of the Peloponessian Peninsula where historical sites and mythology mix with laid-back small towns and uncrowded beaches. Also, an expert on Michelangelo highlights some of the personal influences that helped define him as the epitome of the Renaissance man. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Springtime in Southern Spain
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 21, 2010
Another season of spicy, colorful festivals is getting underway in southern Spain. Local guides from Madrid and Seville point out how visitors can take in the traditions, from lively cities to white washed hill towns in the sunny south. They'll explain how Spaniards maintain their traditions in Seville, and why many consider it the most romantic city in the country. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The West of Ireland; Field Guide to The Irish Music Session
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 14, 2010
Rick gets ready for St Patrick's Day with a closer look at the traditional side of Ireland and exploring the customs of a traditional Irish music session in its natural habitat -- a pub. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Pilots Advice to Reduce Travel Stress; Jane & Michael Stern's 'Road Food USA'
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 07, 2010
Around the USA, there are hundreds of affordable, unpretentious, "yum" places serving home cooked meals.
Jane and Michael Stern share some of their findings about the best Road Food they've found around the country. They provide a few suggestions for places where you can enjoy authentic regional food specialties. Also, get a view from the cockpit on ways to help reduce the stress factor for your next flight. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Richard Ellis: Polar Bears on Thin Ice; Open Phones: Travel Reports
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 28, 2010
Marine wildlife expert Richard Ellis explains how the loss of the ice cap in the Arctic is accelerating, why the wildlife of the region cannot adapt to the effects of global warming, and why this should matter to everyone. Rick also takes listener calls for stories of lessons learned when we are immersed in another culture. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Dan Austin: Road Trip Pilgrim; Open Phones: Extended Travels
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 21, 2010
Even if you don't want to climb a mountain, there are many ways to add a deeper sense of purpose to your travels. Dan Austin describes what it takes to be a "Road Trip Pilgrim," and how a tiny travel budget can actually enhance your experience. We'll share pratical ideas on taking take time off to recharge your spirit in another part of the world, no matter what your age or income. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Greg Mortenson's Afghanistan; Art Simon's Bread for the World
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 14, 2010
The persistent problems Haiti endures are just one example of the need to go beyond relief aid to tackle the root causes of poverty around the world. Greg Mortenson, author of the bestselling "Three Cups of Tea" tells us how he's able to build schools in the heart of Taliban country. Also Bread for the World founder Art Simon explains his efforts to change the system that keeps so much of the world poor and hungry. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Fred Plotkin's Finland; Greece & Turkey: Uneasy Cousins?
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 07, 2010
Rick finds out what's behind the tensions between neighboring countries Greece & Turkey and travel writer Fred Plotkin talks Finland. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Rome City Guide
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 31, 2010
The city that defined the word "civilization" 2000 years ago, Rome today boasts an extravagant collection of more history, art, and culture than any other city in the world. Two locals offer Rick insider tips on experiencing the less crowded corners of the city and making the past come alive. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Mexican Borderlands: The Rio Grande and Baja California
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 24, 2010
We're taking a look at two parts of Mexico's northern borderlands. Keith Bowden spent the better part of a winter canoeing the length of the Rio Grande from El Paso to the Gulf, and he tell us what surprises he found. Also, the author of guidebooks to Baja and Cabo describes the natural attractions of Baja California, with two coastlines more 800 miles long. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
End of the Orient Express; A Summer in Tehran
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 10, 2010
Rick toasts the end of the train line known as the Orient Express and continues east to hear about filmaker Justine Shapiro's experience living in Tehran over a summer with her six year old son. Plus, we have a new set of listener haiku about Venice. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Salman Rushdie: "The Enchantress of Florence" & Sailing the Eastern Mediterranean
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 17, 2010
Rick's guest, Sir Salman Rushdie, explains the motivation for his novel, "The Enchantress of Florence," and offers suggestions on how to confront the cultural clash between "East and West" Also, sailing expert Anthony Sandberg joins Rick with recommendations on how to experience the eastern Mediterranean much like the ancients did -- island-hopping with a boat. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Open Phones: Wrinkles (Faux Pas and Packing Tips); Marty Essen's "Cool Creatures, Hot Planet"
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 03, 2010
We're checking in with our listeners for stories of cross-cultural faux pas. We'll share tips for packing light with just a carry-on, and still looking good at dinner after you unpack in your hotel room. We'll also meet a man who developed a new respect for such creatures as bullet ants, vampire bats, hippos, snakes and leeches. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
International New Years Eve
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 27, 2009
Rick explores some of the many ways to welcome new year with friends from Scotland, Holland, Hungary, Spain, Sicily, Turkey, and even Australia and Japan. Plus, guests share tips, direct from France, on how to put a little sunshine on our table by eating the French Riviera way. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
International Christmas Traditions
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 20, 2009
Some of Rick's European friends from Spain, Hungary, Holland, Sicily, Scotland, and Australia share how different cultures celebrate from Saint Nicholas Day to Epiphany and offer advice for a holiday trip to Paris. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
A Family Christmas in Wales; Sheep in your Travels
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 13, 2009
This week, we'll hear about the sheep and lambs that dot the hills of rural Britain from an accomplished breeder who welcomes tourists to his sheep farm in rural Wales. Rick discovers a few new tricks they use to train the dogs that herd the flocks. We'll also learn about Welsh Christmas traditions, which include a lot of singing and wassailing. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Christmas in Rome and Santa Fe; Eiffel's Tower; Frommer's Las Vegas
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 06, 2009
Author Jill Jonnes joins Rick to discuss who was in the crowd 120 years ago to view The Eiffel Tower, and how radio saved it from being demolished. Also, Pauline Frommer offers tips for all kinds of fun in Las Vegas away from the casinos on the Strip and we'll explore some of the distinctive Christmas season traditions of Rome and Santa Fe. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Smart Help for the Developing World
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 29, 2009
Rick explores practical solutions to addressing world hunger in the 21st century with guests from a preacher-economist who heads a non-profit agency advocating for the interests of hungry people around the world to a Kenyan agricultural specialist who helps address policies and markets benefiting people in developing nations. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Pilgrim's Italy; Hans Peter's Trek to Santiago de Compostela
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 22, 2009
Rick takes a contemporary look at ancient religious paths in Europe and discovers that 21st century travelers in search of religious-themed journeys can find inspiration crossing paths with ancient religious shrines, including the old pilgrim's trail from England to Rome. And a German comic describes what he learned from a month-long solo trek to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Whiskey Trail; More British Slang
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 15, 2009
There's a great deal of history and national pride in a shot of whiskey. Kate Hopkins, "The Accidental Hedonist," joins Rick to share what she learned about The Drink while visiting distilleries across Ireland, Scotland, Canada and Appalachia. Also, Chris Rae investigates more of the British slang that drives the rest of us bonkers. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Photographing Machu Picchu; New Mexico; Who is Ataturk?
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 08, 2009
An architectural photographer shares tips on capturing the spirit of Machu Picchu with a camera, a guidebook author with an appetite for the unusual tells us how her home state of New Mexico has a different aroma from the rest of the American Southwest, and we learn why the Turks stop in their tracks for a few minutes every November tenth. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
1000 Places to See Before You Die; Haunted Europe
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 01, 2009
Patricia Schultz, author of the best-seller "A Thousand Places to See Before you Die" joins Rick to talk about narrowing down some of her favorite places to visit. And, for Halloween, All Souls Day, and Day of the Dead observances, Rick fields calls from listeners who tell us about haunted encounters they experienced on their travels to Europe.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Flight Tips; Rural Japan; Even More Kindness of Strangers
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 25, 2009
Rick experiences traditional Japanese culture with help from Lonely Planet author, Andrew Bender and learns from travel writer Don George about the Kindness of Strangers and how interacting with the locals -- regardless of the language barrier -- can make a big difference. Also, ultra-frequent flyer Johnny Jet offers tips for making your next flight more enjoyable. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Art Outside the Museum; The Monuments Men
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 18, 2009
Rick explores art found outside museums in the everyday scene of Europe and author Robert Edsel shares stories of the "Monuments Men" who helped rescue masterpieces of Western art from the Nazis during and after World War Two and whose work continues even today. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
A Week in Provence
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 11, 2009
Whether you make it your home base for a few days or for good Provence in southeast France is what most Americans imagine of the French countryside. Two specialists in touring France join Rick and take your calls to unveil what makes Provence a distinctive region of France, and why it's so popular with American and European visitors. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Berlin Wall: 20 Years Later
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 04, 2009
As Berliners prepare to celebrate German Reunification Day Rick chats with three residents about the upcoming 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, and hears stories about the Cold War days and current challenges from listeners who have experienced Berlin as both a divided and freshly reunited city. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Scent Trail; More Kindness of Strangers
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 27, 2009
Celia Lyttelton shares her story of how she traveled the world to collect the ingredients for her own perfect personal perfume -- the perfect souvenir for the person who already has everything -- and explains the powerful connection fragrances hold between places, memories, and our emotions. Also, travel writer Don George and callers discuss how the Kindness of Strangers saved the day on more than one overseas occasion and a new set of listener travel haiku takes us sailing in the Caribbean. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Outsiders in the Muslim World
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 20, 2009
Two American travelers reveal the hidden sub-cultures in the Muslim World of the Middle East and North Africa. Looking behind the veil, our guests are an American Muslim who spent a year on her own getting acquainted with the region and a gay travel writer who was surprised by what he encountered in Afghanistan and Iraq. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Mexico City
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 13, 2009
One of the largest cities in the world, Mexico City is often compared to some of Europe's great cities in terms of culture, history, street life, and great food. Yet despite being considered the western hemisphere's equal to many European capitols, it's still not on most Americans' must-see list. Two former New Yorkers, who are inspired to change all that, join Rick to share their story of how they were so charmed by Mexico City they moved there and wrote guides to help other visitors enjoy it, too. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Urge to Preserve: British Banter, Holy Bones, and Inspired Globe-Jotting
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 06, 2009
Rick examines the slang that separates the Brits from their American cousins in an effort to help travelers avoid being "gob-smacked" by what the locals might say, and appearing as a "plonker". Also, Rick discusses how perserving the rags and bones of saints and other relics have changed the world and shares tips for how a travel journal can become a fun and important way to savor vacation memories. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Tangier Tourism; Arctic Wisdom
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 30, 2009
One of Tangier's local tour guides offers suggestions for visiting the enigmatic gateway city to North Africa that is currently being restored to its former Art Deco glory. Also, for something completely different, photographer Steven Kazlowski shares what he learned from spending years in Alaska's Arctic photographing polar bears, along with the wisdom the land and its people taught him. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Budget Phone Tips; Travel for the Birds; Albania for Tourists
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 23, 2009
Join Rick as he learns about the fascinating relationship between two of North America's most iconic birds -- owls and woodpeckers -- and how they help us better understand the different landscapes on our continent. Listeners also offer budget tips on how using cell phones overseas can actually help travelers save money and highlights Albania as a cultural time warp, recommending a visit before other tourists discover its appeal. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Budapest
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 16, 2009
Rick examines the enduring appeal of Hungary's capital city and how, after centuries of being a melting pot of cultures, Budapest continues to be one of the world's truly grand cities, with some of the tastiest food in Europe. Joining Rick, two Hungarian tour guides take listener calls and explore why Budapest remains the economic and cultural centerpiece for much of eastern Europe. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Misadventures of Rolf Potts; Open Phones: Budget Eating
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 09, 2009
Rolf Potts shares his tales and misadventures as a travel writer and Rick shares ideas with listeners on how to eat on a budget while traveling on vacation overseas. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Eccentric Islands; Backstreet Istanbul
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 02, 2009
The busy city of Istanbul is now home to millions of Turks and is emerging as one of the hottest places for visitors. Rick delvs into the backstreets with suggestions for enjoying the city like the locals do -- from corners of the Grand Bazaar and Topkapi Palace to the romantic traffic-free islands just off the coast. We'll also pay tribute to the late writer Bill Holm, who shared his thoughts about "eccentric islands" with Rick. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
David Sedaris: An American in Paris and Tokyo
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 26, 2009
Humorist and frequent traveler David Sedaris tells us how he's settled in as a 50-something ex-pat in Europe. David helps us tackle the gender of French nouns — sort of — and compares notes with Rick on the most irritating things about tourists in Paris, staying in hotels, and a dirty little secret about some flight attendants. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
More Geography of Bliss; Finding More Classical Music in Europe
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 19, 2009
Is the current economic downturn taking a toll on you? We'll investigate what makes people from different cultures happy, with NPR's Eric Weiner, as he updates us on the findings from his book "The Geography of Bliss." We'll also consider our options for taking in a classical music concert while vacationing in Europe.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Paris City Guide
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 12, 2009
If you haven't seen Paris, you really haven't yet tasted the best of Europe. French tour guide Patrick Vidal joins Rick for an insider's perspective on the style and substance that makes Paris the world capital of culture. We'll also hear from listeners with their own suggestions for what makes Paris one of the world's favorite cities. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Visiting Washington DC; More Places to See in the USA & Canada
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 05, 2009
Rick celebrates Independence day, gathering tips for visiting Washington D.C. from Pauline Frommer and Jay Inslee, who represents Rick's home district in Congress. Also, Patricia Schultz inspires listeners with a follow-up to her book "Thousand Places to See Before Your Die" focusing on the USA and Canada. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Art in Italy
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 28, 2009
Whether you studied art history in college, or you just want to be a good sport on your next trip to Europe, we'll see how art can change the way you look at the world. Rick is joined by the co-author of his Europe 101 book on art appreciation, and by certified guides from Rome and Florence, to discover new ways of looking at the masterpieces that surround you in Italy. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Odysseys
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 21, 2009
Rick chats with Scott Huler about his voyage in the Mediterranean to re-trace the steps of Ulysses and what he learned about himself 3,000 years after "The Odyssey."
Also, a writer from Forbes.com shares with listeners the lengths some intrepid travelers are going to in order to reach the far corners of the earth. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Flying in Coach; The Ridiculous Race
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 14, 2009
Rick gets advice from a flight attendant on how to enjoy flying in the coach section of the plane, including tips for getting a good seat, and hears from two Hollywood comedy writers who challenged each other to see who could make it around the world first -- without ever using an airplane. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
D-Day Sites; Open Phones: Summer Travel Plans
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 07, 2009
The beaches of Normandy, France hold the memories of thousands who fought -- and many who died -- to bring an end to Europe's Nazi tyranny in 1944. Rick commemorates the 65th anniversary of the D-Day landings with an expert guest on D-Day sites who gives travelers options for a trip that many Americans rate among the most moving of their lives. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Fred Plotkin's "Chow Italia"
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 31, 2009
Italians have always believed in eating locally and in-season, and that's exactly what Italian food expert Fred Plotkin recommends when he joins Rick to talk about chowing well in Italia. Fred gives tips for helping travelers savor the variety of regional Italian cuisine specialties, where to look for great Italian food on a budget, and some of the local traditions Italians have for what -- and when -- to eat and drink. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Castles in Europe; High School Visionaries
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 24, 2009
For centuries castles were considered the high points of their communities. Join Rick as he talks castles with an expert guide from Wales and offers recommendations for which sites travelers to visit -- from historical ruins to converted B&Bs, all the way to Transylvania. Next, Rick learns about American high school students who travel to Guatemala each summer in order to learn first-hand how connected we really are in our modern world. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Rome: Beneath the Surface
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 17, 2009
Rick brings centuries of Roman history to life as he takes a closer look at some of the sites found on the streets of Rome, checks in on the city's now-trendy Jewish Ghetto, offers practical tips for planning a visit, hears what some of our listeners have discovered in their own travels and chats with a local guide who not only knows her city inside out, but also explains how it teaches us about ourselves today. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The European Union in 2009
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 10, 2009
After World War Two, European visionaries dreamed of cooperation and peace between countries in the hopes to prevent another devastating war. Today, we celebrate this vision through Europe Day and the European Union with a panel of European citizens who discuss the political and social issues facing the E.U.
Out of the rubble of World War Two, European visionaries came up with a way to get their countries to cooperate and to prevent another devastating war. We're commemorating Europe Day with a panel of European citizens. Join us as we discuss how the E-U addresses the political and social issues facing Europe today. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Music Festivals in Europe; Ask Arthur Frommer
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 03, 2009
Budget travel guru Arthur Frommer joins Rick to compare notes on recent travel trends, and share ideas for seeing the world in a down economy. Also, Margret Hemmen provides tips on how to research for some of the year's biggest music festivals, since 2009 will include anniversaries of many major classical composers.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Smart Help for the Developing World
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 26, 2009
We explore practical solutions to addressing world hunger. Rick's guests include a preacher-economist who heads a non-profit agency that advocates for the interests of hungry people around the world. And we'll hear from a Kenyan agricultural specialist who's helping to address policies and markets that will benefit people in developing nations. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Travel with Kids
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 19, 2009
For some parents, fear of flying means wondering how their kid will behave on the plane. Rick shares practical advice and pointers on traveling with children ranging from toddlers to teens. From acclimating kids to the streets of Rome to leaning how to cope with jetlag, Rick's guests discuss what parents need to know and how to turn kids into lifelong travelers. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Easter in the Holy Land; Footsteps of Saint Paul
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 12, 2009
Rick celebrates Easter by learning about Christian pilgrimages to Israel and the Mediterranean region, where Saint Paul traveled, calling one of our listeners to hear about her year spent volunteering at non-profit projects around the world, and exploring inspirational religious sites in the Middle East. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Spain and the Spring Festivals of Andalucia
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 05, 2009
Local guides from Madrid and Seville share tips on how to experience Spain's colorful southern festivals, from lively cities to white-washed hill towns, explain how Spaniards maintain traditions in Seville, and discuss why many consider it the most romantic city in the country. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Barging Thru France & Open Phones: Kindness of Strangers
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 29, 2009
The captain of a passenger barge based in Burgundy joins Rick to explain the fine art of cruising France's intimate network of canals and how this dimension of traveling through the French countryside brings with it new pleasures. And we'll hear stories from listeners who experienced simple acts of kidness by strangers in their travels. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
A Brilliant Teacher Around the World; Southern California Sidetrips
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 22, 2009
If travel is the best education - imagine what you could learn when you take a year off to take your family around the world? We'll hear how an average family of five engaged in "world schooling," and how it brought them closer together as they spent time in a variety of cultures all over the world. In addition, Rick checks in with a Lonely Planet author in Southern California, with tips for family fun and finding cultures from across the world in Los Angeles. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Ireland: 2009
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 15, 2009
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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Bill Holm: American in Iceland; Winter in Alaska
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 08, 2009
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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Everyday Italian Cuisine
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 01, 2009
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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Estonia
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 22, 2009
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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Romantic Travel Destinations
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 15, 2009
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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Springtime in The Netherlands; Cycling Across Colombia
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 08, 2009
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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Comfort Food
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 01, 2009
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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Helen Thayer: Walking the Gobi Desert
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 25, 2009
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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Rick Steves in Iran, part two: Iran for Tourists
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 11, 2009
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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Rick Steves in Iran: Perplexing Issues
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 04, 2009
We start a two-part series about one of the most perplexing countries in the Middle East on this week's Travel with Rick Steves.
Rick learns about the culture, politics, and people of Iran from two Iranian-American experts, a journalist and a professor. Their recent books deal with the conflicts within Iranian culture, and on how the pressures of globalization help to feed terrorist sympathies among some traditional communities. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Prague and the Czech Countryside
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 18, 2009
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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
International New Years Eve Traditions
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 28, 2008
One of the delights of traveling to other countries is finding new ways to celebrate familiar holidays. This week, we explore some of the many ways to welcome in the new year with friends from Scotland, Holland, Hungary, Spain, Sicily, Turkey and even Australia and Japan. And we'll get tips, direct from France, on how to put a little sunshine on our table by eating like they do on the French Riviera.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
International Christmas
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 21, 2008
Join Rick and some of his friends from Spain, Hungary, Holland, Sicily, Scotland, and Australia join us to explain their holiday traditions. And we'll get advice for a family holiday trip to Paris. Come along for a taste of the many flavors of Christmas celebrations from around the world on Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Last Polar Bear; Christmas in Rome and London
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 14, 2008
Polar bears may be the top of the food chain, but they're taking a serious hit from climate change at the top of the world. This week, we meet wilderness photographer Steven Kazlowski. He's spent years getting acquainted with the Arctic, and tells us what he's witnessed, learned, and documented in his latest photo-essay book, "The Last Polar Bear." And we'll get a head start on Christmas celebrations in London, Rome, and Germany.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Celtic Fringes of Britain: Wales & Scotland
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 30, 2008
Two of Rick's favorite tour guides from Scotland and Wales join Rick to contrast the charms of Wales and Scotland and discuss the distinctions travelers can find in the United Kingdom, including a far more interesting taste of the authentic culture than you'll find from the standard romanticized tourists cliches. And another round of listener poetry about Winter in Ireland. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Johnny Jet's Internet Guide to Travel
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 07, 2008
Johnny Jet is the ultimate frequent flyer. He turned a fear of flying into a travel career that takes him overseas more than he stays at home. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, Johnny updates us on trends in air travel, and shares his tips for cutting the cost -- and the headaches -- from travel. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Eric Weiner's 'Geography of Bliss'
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 23, 2008
When self-described grump Eric Weiner took a year off from being an NPR correspondent to search for the happiest countries in the world he found some surprising reasons why people are content with the places they call home. Eric joins Rick to discuss what makes the Dutch, Swiss, Icelanders, East Indians, Thais, and even the Bhutanese happy with their lot in life. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Odysseys
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 16, 2008
Have you ever found yourself between a rock and a hard place, or heard the tempting call of the sirens to forget about your plans? These are some of the experiences Scott Huler had on a six month voyage to re-trace the steps of Ulysses. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, we'll hear what you can discover about yourself in the Mediterranean. 3,000 years after "The Odyssey."
And a writer from Forbes.com tells us the lengths some intrepid travelers are going to in order to reach the far corners of the earth.
When a vacation becomes an Odyssey. . . 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Turkey: Beyond Istanbul
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 02, 2008
Turkey has become a favorite haunt of travelers who look for a distinct and welcoming culture -- living on top of layers of history from the civilizations of long ago. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, tour guide Meli Seval introduces us to the appeal of Turkey deep within the country -- beyond the cosmopolitan scene in Istanbul. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Rescuing Da Vinci: How the Allies Saved The World's Masterpieces from World War Two
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 09, 2008
Robert Edsel, author of "Rescuing DaVinci" and producer of the documentary film "The Rape of Europa" joins Rick to describe Hitler's obsession with art, and how a special unit of Allies, known as the Monuments Men, re-patriated Europe's treasures after the war -- and the work that remains to be done today. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
1000 Places to See Before You Die
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 26, 2008
Patricia Schultz, author of the best-seller "A Thousand Places to See Before you Die", brings focus to your travel dreams by narrowing down some of her favorite places to visit. Later, Rick takes listener calls and emails sharing travel plans and inspiring travelers to get out and see the world, armed with confidence and useful travel tips. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Tony Wheeler's "Lonely Planet"
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 19, 2008
Rick compares notes with Tony Wheeler, founder of what has become the world's largest travel empire -- Lonely Planet. Tony shares some of the tales he chronicles in his book, "Unlikely Destinations: The Lonely Planet Story" and how his passion for world travel created a vehicle to help independent travelers navigate even the smallest and thorniest of countries. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
First Impressions of Iran
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 05, 2008
Rick shares notes with his Iranian-American filmmaking consultant about their recent trip to Iran to film a special for public television. We'll hear what "family values" means to the average Iranian, and how some of them circumnavigate the taboos of their fundamentalist religious government. It could be one of the least understood cultures in the world, and Westerners are often surprised by the welcome they find -- from the congested capital, Tehran, to the dusty and magnificent sites of ancient Persia. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Tony Horwitz: Rediscovering the New World, and Sailing to Antarctica
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 12, 2008
Travel writer Tony Horwitz retraces the North American routes of 16th century explorers, and examines how they changed America before the big wave of European settlers arrived. Also, sailing expert Anthony Sandberg reveals what we'll find in today's hot spot for discovery -- Antarctica. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Berlin City Guide
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 28, 2008
Berlin is asserting itself as one of the world's powerhouse cities, and one of Europe's more affordable destinations for newcomers. Rick chats with an American who calls Berlin home, and gets an update on the city's attractions including the intense re-construction projects revealing a re-invented German capital. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
David Sedaris: An American in Paris and Tokyo
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 21, 2008
Humorist and frequent traveler David Sedaris tells us how he's settled in as a 50-something ex-pat in Europe on the next Travel with Rick Steves. And he shares a few surprises about what he found in Japan - where he went to learn to quit smoking.
David helps us tackle the gender of French nouns - sort of - and compares notes with Rick on the most irritating things about tourists in Paris, staying in hotels, and a dirty little secret about some flight attendants. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Chow Italia: Fred Plotkin's Gourmet Italy
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 14, 2008
Italians have always believed in eating locally and in season. Italian food expert Fred Plotkin joins us on this week's Travel with Rick Steves to help us travel with an informed palate to savor the variety of regional Italian cuisine specialties. We'll learn where to look for great Italian food on a budget, and some of the local traditions Italians have for what and when they eat and drink.
Join us for a gastronomic pilgrimage with the author of "Italy for the Gourmet Traveler" 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Lord Alderdice: Road Maps to Peace
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 07, 2008
Lord Alderdice, one of the key political figures who helped resolve Northern Ireland's long-standing "troubles" between its Catholic and Protestant citizens, joins Rick as a special guest to discuss the tensions facing the United States and its allies. The Belfast native provides a look at the personal reasons fueling political conflict and provoking terrorist acts and shares his approach to overcoming terrorism and designing road maps for peace. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Outsiders in the Muslim World
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Two American travelers reveal the hidden sub-cultures in the Muslim World of the Middle East and North Africa. Looking behind the veil, our guests are an American Muslim who spent a year on her own getting acquainted with the region and a gay travel writer who was surprised by what he encountered in Afghanistan and Iraq. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Exploring Sicily & Germany's Black Forest
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 24, 2008
If you like the people and rhythm of Italy you'll love Sicily. Tour guide Alfio di Mauro offers insider tips on getting the most out of a vacation to the frenzied-yet-laid-back island. Also, German tour guide Christoph Dressler tempts Rick with ideas for visiting Germany's Black Forest region, including mineral spas and power hikes. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Hungary: Beyond Budapest
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 17, 2008
Filled with a proud Imperial history, friendly formality, hundreds of hot springs, and some of Europe's spicier home cooking, Hungary is a cultural goulash. Rick explores options for getting beyond the busy capital of Budapest into the heart of Hungary's countryside. Tour guide Peter Polczman takes travelers' calls highlighting the scenic Danube Bend, Lake Balaton, and the proud winemaking town of Eger, famous for its strong "bull's blood" wine. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Bulgaria; An Ounce of Prevention
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 10, 2008
Caught in the cultural crosshairs of Europe, Bulgaria is emerging as one of Eastern Europe's bargains. Travelers to Bulgaris can expect Ancient Byzantine and Ottoman influences and experience Mummers and midwives keeping traditions dating back to the ancient Thracians and Romans times alive. Rick also takes a house call from the travel doctor, who offers preventive advice for the long plane ride overseas and visiting the third world. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
An Art-Lovers Guide to Europe
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 03, 2008
Art history specialist, co-author of "Europe 101" and original "Europe Through the Gutter" travel partner Gene Openshaw joins Rick to inspire us with a close-up view of masterpieces including paintings, sculptures and architecture travelers can't afford to miss in Europe.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Jamaica and Jordan
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 27, 2008
Home of rasta and reggae, the small island of Jamaica offers big personality, a distinctive accent, waterfall zip lines, and snorkeling with dolphins. Thanks to all this and more, Jamaica is one of the most popular getaways in the Caribbean. And, for something completely different, the Middle Eastern kingdom of Jordan delights travelers with desert excursions, modern resorts on the Red Sea, anciet cities and more. From Petra to Bedouin, tourists to Jordan are in for a treat. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Salman Rushdie's "The Enchantress of Florence" & Sailing the Eastern Mediterranean
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 20, 2008
Salman Rushdie joins Rick to discuss how to confront the cultural clash between East and West and explain the motivation for his latest novel, "The Enchantress of Florence," which revolves around the earliest contacts between Europeans and 16th century moghul India. Later, sailing expert Anthony Sandberg recommends how to experience the eastern Mediterranean, much like the ancients did -- by island-hopping with a boat. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
A Week in Provence
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 13, 2008
Whether you make it your home base for a few days, or for good, Provence charms any traveler hoping to expeirence traditional French countryside. Two France experts join Rick to take listener calls and unveil what makes Provence such a distinctive region, and why it's so popular among American and European visitors. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
America the Beautiful & Route 66
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 06, 2008
Rick talks with the editor at Life Books about their new photo essay on one hundred of the most compelling places to visit in the USA. And we'll get re-acquainted with Route 66 and the appeal it still holds for a classic road trip thru the heart of middle America and the southwest. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
An Artist's Safari in Africa; Travel Medicine
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 29, 2008
Fred Krakowiak, a wildlife painter who shares his love for Africa with us through his vivid descriptions of a safari, shows Rick what Africa looks like through the eyes of a painter, and Doctor Edward Chapnick, the head of travel medicine at a major hospital in Brooklyn answers questions about precautions for visits to lesser developed countries, as well as the plane ride over. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
A Midsommer's Guide to Sweden
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 22, 2008
Stockholm-based tour guide Marita Bergman provides a glimpse into the attractions of her home city and takes listener calls on suggestions for exploring the Swedish countryside. Marita also explains how Swedish society provides for raising a familiy, and how the Swedes celebrate the longest day of the year. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Costa Rica
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 15, 2008
With seaside resorts on two coasts, volcano, rainforest, jungle, and more species of birds and butterflies than almost anywhere else on earth, Costa Rica is a naturalist's eco-dream. Travel writer Christopher Baker gives us a taste of Costa Rica's "pura vida" and tips on when to visit the country and how to get close to nature -- whether by river raft or by zip-line. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Travel with Kids
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 08, 2008
For some parents, fear of flying means wondering how their kid will behave on the plane. Rick shares practical advice and pointers on traveling with children ranging from toddlers to teens. From acclimating kids to the streets of Rome to leaning how to cope with jetlag, Rick's guests discuss what parents need to know and how to turn kids into lifelong travelers. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Travel Budget Tricks
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 25, 2008
The weaker value of the US dollar doesn't have to bust your budget and get in the way of enjoying the European vacation you've always dreamed of. From finding affordable accommodations in hot spots such as London, Madrid and Paris to exploring emerging destinations in Eastern Europe where the dollar still holds up against the local currencies, we're spending the hour exploring European travel budget tricks on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Exploring D-Day Sites
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 18, 2008
The beaches of Normandy hold the memories of the thousands who fought -- and the many who died -- to bring an end to Europe's Nazi tyranny in 1944. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, we'll explore options for visiting the sites connected with D-Day -- a trip many Americans rate among the most moving of their lives. Rick also fields listener calls and emails to help plan upcoming travels to Europe, and shares another round of listener travel haiku. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Rome City Guide
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 11, 2008
With an extravagant collection of more history, art, and culture than any other city in the world, Rome defined the word "civilization" two thousand years ago. Today, two of Rome's best tour guides join Rick to take listener calls, point out the city's high points, and offer tips travelers with any amount of time to spend in the Eternal City can put to use. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Istanbul City Guide
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 04, 2008
Now one of the world's largest cities, Istanbul retains its intimate character with the echoes of generations still evident in its narrow streets and ornate monuments. Rick's friends Tan and Lale Aran join us for a guide to their rapidly growing city and take calls to help listeners plan their visits to Istanbul. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Eric Weiner and The Geography of Bliss
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 27, 2008
When self-described grump Eric Weiner took a year off from being an NPR correspondent to search for the happiest countries in the world he found some surprising reasons why people are content with the places they call home. Eric joins Rick to discuss what makes the Dutch, Swiss, Icelanders, East Indians, Thais, and even the Bhutanese happy with their lot in life. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Earth Day 2008: Sailing & Endangered Sites
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 20, 2008
Rick reviews the World Monuments Fund list of the "100 Most Endangered Sites" and finds out what's putting them at risk, and what we can do to help. Also, Rick is joined by the founder of the Olympic Circle Sailing Club in Berkeley, California, and looks at the role sailing clubs are playing as they bring people together to let wind power take them near and far. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
An American Travel Guide to China
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 13, 2008
The old China travelers once knew is undergoing radical changes, mixing some of the world's oldest cultural heritage with futuristic city sklines and making way for the next generation of tourists. In fact, it's changing so rapidly, travelers need more than a good guidebook to get around. Rick learns how to get the most out of a visit to China from three experts on Chinese culture and society and finds out what visitors to today's China can expect. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Paris City Guide
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 06, 2008
If you haven't seen Paris you haven't tasted the best of Europe. French tour guide Patrick Vidal joins Rick for an insider's perspective on the style and substance that make Paris a cultural capital. We'll also hear from listeners with their own suggestions for what makes Paris one of the world's favorite cities. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Alaska Overview & Road Tripping with Kids
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 30, 2008
Alaska is a dream destination for many, but the cost and logistics of traveling to America's last frontier can seem almost as imposing as the spectacular scenery. Lonely Planet author Aaron Spitzer joins Rick to discuss travel options for first-timers to Alaska and compare crusing the Southeast to road tripping through Mount Denali and the Kenai Peninsula.
Also, Jeff Campbell offers practical tips on how to make a summer road trip with small children memorable for all the right reasons. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Road Trip Pilgrim
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 23, 2008
Rick's guest Dan Austin describes what it takes to be a "Road Trip Pilgrim," and how a tiny travel budget can actually enhance your experience. Even if you don't want to climb a mountain, there are many ways to add a deeper sense of purpose to your travels. We'll share pratical ideas on taking take time off to recharge your spirit in another part of the world, no matter what your age or income. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Dublin City Guide
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 16, 2008
Irish tour guide Stephen McPhilmey takes listener calls to explain how the high-tech boom and pop-culture scene have skyrocketed Dublin's stature in recent years and how that's changing the character of the Irish capital. Find out why people across the country are calling Dublin one of their favorite cities -- even though it has become one of its most expensive for American visitors. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Berlin City Guide
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 09, 2008
Berlin is re-asserting itself as one of the world's powerhouse cities, and one of Europe's more-affordable cities for newcomers. Rick gets an update on the city's attractions and energy from an American who now calls Berlin his home and discovers how Berlin's intense re-construction project promises to reveal a re-invented German capital soon. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Celtic Fringes of Britain: Wales & Scotland
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 02, 2008
Two of Rick's favorite tour guides from Scotland and Wales join Rick to contrast the charms of Wales and Scotland and discuss the distinctions travelers can find in the United Kingdom, including a far more interesting taste of the authentic culture than you'll find from the standard romanticized tourists cliches. And another round of listener poetry about Winter in Ireland. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Traveling on your stomach: Everyday Italian Cuisine
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 24, 2008
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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Thorny Issues: Turkey and Tibet
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 17, 2008
With the help of two politically-savvy Turks from Istanbul, we'll discuss some of the trickier political issues facing both Turkey and Tibet today and hear how Turkey is preparing for a formal relationship with the European Union. And, a Lonely Planet author explains how China's political control is changing Tibet, and offers tips for finding its traditional Buddhist culture. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Romance and Authenticity
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 10, 2008
Rick and travel guru Don George share advice with listeners about romantic getaways, B&Bs, and connecting with the locals. We'll also hear Jennifer Cox's story of traveling the world to find a soulmate -- and where she found him -- and get a first-hand report from Siena in central Italy about how to savor the moment, Tuscan-style. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Rescuing Da Vinci: How the Allies Saved The World's Masterpieces from World War Two
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 03, 2008
Robert Edsel, author of "Rescuing DaVinci" and producer of the documentary film "The Rape of Europa" joins Rick to describe Hitler's obsession with art, and how a special unit of Allies, known as the Monuments Men, re-patriated Europe's treasures after the war -- and the work that remains to be done today. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Retiring in Mexico
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 20, 2008
Rick and his guests Carl Franz and Lorena Havens, authors of the "People's Guide to Mexico," discuss what it takes to retire in Mexico and reminisce about how they first met in the 1970s and what "following your bliss" entailed back during the early days of Carl and Lorena's adventures in Mexico. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Australia & Mardi Gras in New Orleans
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 27, 2008
From kangaroos to Carnival, Rick focuses on the attractions of Australia, and the celebrations surrounding Mardi Gras parties and parades in New Orleans. Rick explores Aussie culture and New Orleans with Lonely Planet experts. We'll also hear how Mardi Gras is a series of celebrations for all ages, and why it's so important in helping revive the spirit of New Orleans. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
More on London 2008
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 13, 2008
We're including material we weren't able to fit into last week's program about London in this podcast and web extra feature. Tour guides Tom Hooper and Gillian Chadwick return with Rick to take calls from a couple of Seattle-area listeners to KUOW. They clear up the meaning of the "Bank Holiday" at the end of May, the significance of Guy Fawkes Day observances in November, and commiserate about the confusing congestion when making connecting flights at Heathrow Airport. (runs 6:11) For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
London 2008
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 06, 2008
Two of Rick's favorite London guides clue us in on what's new for 2008 and offer tips on how to navigate the city sprawl while finding characteristic neighborhoods without getting lost in the Underground. And we'll compare notes with listeners on budget tricks and free attractions that make London one of the world's top travel destinations. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
International New Year's Traditions
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 30, 2007
Explore the many ways our friends from Scotland, Holland, Hungary, Spain, Sicily, Turkey and even Australia welcome in the new year and get a report from one of our traveling listeners about his recent trip-of-a-lifetime to Ecuador.
We've all got to share one planet, so come along as we explore our world, and welcome in the new year in style. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Christmas in Rome and London
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 09, 2007
Have you ever thought about spending Christmas in Rome or London? We'll get you in the right holiday mood with this special podcast extra preview of next week's brand new show on International Christmas traditions. Local Rome tour guides Susanna Perruchinni and Francesca Caruso describe how the holiday is observed in the Eternal City and Blue-Badge London guides Gillian Chadwick and Tom Hooper describe some of the Christmas sites you'll find in their city. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Christmas Traditions
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 23, 2007
Rick takes listener calls about travel during the holidays, and phones a few of his friends in Europe to find out how they're celebrating Christmas. We'll also hear about guarding traditions in Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Ireland and Portugal, and how some traditionas are changing with modern times. And we'll even find out about some of Santa Claus's relatives, back in the "old country." For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
International Christmas Traditions
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 16, 2007
Rick's friends from Spain, Hungary, Holland, Sicily, Scotland, and Australia explain how they observe the holidays including what happens on Saint Nicholas Day and Epiphany as part of their Christmas festivities. And we'll also get some advice for a family holiday trip to Paris. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Open Phones and Traveler Faux Pas
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 02, 2007
Rick fields listener calls and emails dealing with stories of travel adventures -- and a few misadventures. From faux pas to favorite food overseas, Rick spends a full hour on the lessons learned from "travelers' school of hard knocks." For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Tony Wheeler's "Lonely Planet"
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 25, 2007
Tony Wheeler, founder of what has become the world's largest travel empire, Lonely Planet, shares some of the tales that he chronicles in his new book, "Unlikely Destinations: The Lonely Planet Story." Rick compares notes with Tony as he recalls the early travel adventures that formed the foundation of a pre-eminent publishing house known for helping independent travelers find their way through even the smallest and thorniest of countries. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Conscientious Travel; Oceania to Amsterdam
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 18, 2007
Some of the best souvenirs from a trip overseas are making connections with people and cultures on local terms. Rick takes a closer look at how we can have a positive impact on the places we visit, and Jeff Greenwald of EthicalTraveler.org shares his tips for being a first-class ambassador to the third world. Plus, Moon Handbook South Pacific author David Stanley gives Rick an overview of "Oceania" and Rick compares notes with Lonely Planet author Andy Bender on some of his favorite "Back Door" sites in Amsterdam.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Travel Stories and Today's Republic of Turkey
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 04, 2007
With recent concerns about how Turkey deals with Kurdish separatists inside and across its borders, it's a good time to get a local's take on how the country functions in a rough and tumble corner of the world. Meli Seval returns to explain how nationalism helps shape Turkish democracy and what it means to Turkish citizens as the country celebrates its 84th anniversary as a republic. We'll also hear from listeners on how spending time abroad has spiced up their lives. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Podcast Special
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 14, 2007
Don George joins Rick to answer listener e-mails about different accommodation options around the world. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Off the Beaten Track Emails, Amazon Adventures, and Maori Culture
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 28, 2007
Travel writer Don George joins Rick to field listener emails about travel to the developing world. We'll also get pointers for touring the massive Amazon River region of Brazil, where river transportation is like a non-stop party boat, and learn about the indigenous Maori culture of New Zealand. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Podcast Special: Tibet with Michael Kohn
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 30, 2007
Lonely Planet author Michael Kohn updates us on the scene in Tibet, from the influence of the Chinese government over the indigenous Tibetan culture, to practical tips that will help travelers plan a trip there. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Time and Money; Looking Up Relatives in Sicily
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 21, 2007
Listeners share secrets on traveling on a budget, and learn the price of being an over-worked American. Also, we'll get tips on researching family trees in Europe from two of our Sicilian friends, and look at the influence of Sicilian culture as an alternative to the frantic American pace of life. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Southern Exposure: New Zealand & Baja California, Mexico
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 07, 2007
Lonely Planet author Errol Hunt paints a vivid picture of his homeland, New Zealand, and its distinct social mix including the Polynesian Maori culture. And, for a sunny getaway closer to home, Rick explores Mexico's Baja California peninsula from its gritty border towns to land's end at Cabo San Lucas. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
First Impressions of India
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 23, 2007
Rick exchanges stories and tips on encountering India for the first time with Lonely Planet author Sarina Singh. From conquering India's train system, to enjoying Bollywood films, and learning to eat without utensils, they discuss issues that push travelers outside their comfort zone in order to find the best travel souvenir: memories. We'll also hear more stories about the unexpected kindness of strangers on the road. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Guide to Back Door Amsterdam
Author: Rick Steves
Mon, Aug 27, 2007
Rick chats with Lonely Planet author Andrew Bender about some of the lesser-known sites in Amsterdam. Andrew recommends exploring a few off-the-beaten-path attractions that even Rick hasn't visited, such as the DePijp Market in the south of the city, and the Eastern Docklands district. They also compare notes on some of the city's tackier tourist traps, as well as some under-rated, under-visited sites in Amsterdam. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Madrid to Mauritius
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 16, 2007
Join Rick for an insider's guide to the Castille region of central Spain, and to the Indian Ocean nation of Mauritius. Sampling the sites of Toledo and Madrid, we get an understanding of what gives the heart of Spain its vibrant character. We'll bask in the mélange of cultures that makes Mauritius a delicious tropical magnet for European socialites -- and a potential eco-destination for tracking the remains of the dodo bird. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Look East: Eastern Europe to Eastern Turkey
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 09, 2007
If you're looking to travel where the old has become new again you'll do well to look East. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, three of Rick's friends discuss their home countries of Hungary, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic and how to get the most there for your dollar.
We'll also venture into the heart of the ancient world with an overview of the sites of Eastern Turkey. Tour guide Mehlika Seval tells us why she loves the traditional Eastern half of her country, where deeply-rooted cultures carry on with little interruption from tourism. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Tony Wheeler's "Bad Lands"
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 02, 2007
Tony Wheeler's company writes guidebooks for practically every country on the planet -- including some that get very few visitors. On top of that, he's written up his latest adventures to some of the most dubious destinations in "Bad Lands: A Tourist on the Axis of Evil." The head of Lonely Planet publications tells us what he found in Iraq, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Libya, Burma, North Korea, Cuba, and Albania on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Budapest
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 19, 2007
Just in time to celebrate Saint Stephen's Day with the Hungarians, we look at the enduring appeal of Hungary's capital city of Budapest. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, two Hungarian tour guides join Rick to take listener calls and explore why Budapest remains the economic and cultural centerpiece for Eastern Europe.
Budapest is one of the world's truly grand cities, and has been a meeting place of cultures for centuries. We'll check out everything from hot springs to Hungarian food, and find out why travelers in the know call Budapest the "Paris of Eastern Europe." For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Travel Writing with Don George; Cambodia
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 12, 2007
On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, we'll hear about Cambodia's capital city of Phnom Penh from a travel author on assignment in Southeast Asia. And we'll learnr how to plan a visit to the misty Cambodian jungle and it's magnificent temples at Angkor Wat.
Also, travel editor Don George joins Rick to help listeners practice the craft of travel writing and research. And a listener entices us to his home town in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
North Meets South: British Ex-Pats on the Continent; Ski, Surf, and Settle in South America
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 05, 2007
On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, we hear from three of Rick's friends who left Great Britain to make new homes in Spain, Italy and France. They'll tell us what it's like living as an 'ex-pat' on the Continent, and offer advice for Americans thinking of moving to Europe on a budget. We'll also get tips on skiing and surfing options in Latin America. And a listener explains what's it like being an American living in Panama.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Cuba - What's Next?
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 29, 2007
Now that Fidel Castro no longer heads the Cuban government, questions are emerging about whether Cuban authorities might start to relax control of its society, and how soon the US government might rescind its economic embargo on Cuba. On the next Travel with Rick Steves, we examine some of the anxieties, possibilities and realities regarding Americans and Cuba. Rick welcomes Cuba expert Christopher P Baker for a discussion of what's next for Cuba in these days of political limbo, and what it means for American travelers who want to go there. We're going to Cuba -- sort of -- 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
American Desert Road Trips; Bali, Indonesia
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 22, 2007
This week on Travel with Rick Steves we investigate vacation options -- near and far. We'll explore the American tradition of taking a road trip to the desert -- whether it's at a national park in Utah or among the lava fields of Hawaii's Big Island. And we'll see why visitors to Bali in Indonesia call it paradise on earth, and hear how its tourism industry is faring after several scares in recent years.
From a great American road trip, to a beach vacation in Bali, we're taking off for a change of scenery 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Barging Through France
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 15, 2007
The captain of a passenger barge based in Burgundy joins Rick to explain the fine art of cruising France's intimate network of canals and how this dimension of traveling through the French countryside brings with it new pleasures. And we'll hear stories from listeners who experienced simple acts of kidness by strangers in their travels. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Edinburgh -- Cultural Heart of Scotland
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 08, 2007
One of Europe's most entertaining cities is also a great place for a civilized stroll around town. Join us for an insider's guide to Edinburgh with guides Anne Doig and Ken Hanley. Each year, they lead hundreds of Americans around Edinburgh, sharing the ins and outs of their city. We'll hear how to best enjoy the fabled summer festivals -- among the most popular in Europe -- and catch a wee dram of Scottish pride and spirit. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Emerging Destinations & American Favorites: Route 66, New York City
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 01, 2007
Rick's friends from Lonely Planet publications join us to discuss exotic, emerging destinations around the world, and a fresh take on two American favorites. We'll look at maintaining the 20th century magic of the open road along U-S Route 66 and go uptown for a budget traveler's guide to New York City. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
A Midsummer's Guide to Sweden
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 17, 2007
Stockholm-based tour guide Marita Bergman provides a glimpse into her home city, explaining how Swedish society is organized to provide for raising a familiy, and telling us how the Swedes celebrate the longest day of the year. We'll take listener calls with suggestions for exploring the Swedish countryside, too. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Shaking off the Soviets in Eastern Europe and the 'Stans of Central Asia
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 10, 2007
After 40 years of Communism, the countries of Eastern Europe are coming into their own as the newest members of the European Union. We'll examine the dramatic changes to everyday life for the people of the former Soviet bloc countries and get an overview of tourism to the former Soviet "Stans" of Central Asia to see how they're faring as independent nations. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Business Customs
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 03, 2007
Rick explores how some of the little things travelers do, or neglect to do, affect the way Americans are perceived in Europe. Author Mary Murray Bosrock, a specialist in intercultural communication and behavior, joins Rick to examine what's considered appropriate behavior when conducting business in Europe, how formal travelers should be in different cultures, and which cheek to kiss (and when). For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Alaska Overview & Road Tripping with the Kids
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 27, 2007
Alaska is a dream destination for many, but the cost and logistics of traveling to America's last frontier can seem almost as imposing as the spectacular scenery. Lonely Planet author Aaron Spitzer joins Rick to discuss travel options for first-timers to Alaska and compare crusing the Southeast to road tripping through Mount Denali and the Kenai Peninsula.
Also, Jeff Campbell offers practical tips on how to make a summer road trip with small children memorable for all the right reasons. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Rolf Potts: "Vagabonding"
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 20, 2007
Rick spends the hour with Rolf Potts, one of the sharpest minds among the new generation of travel writers and bloggers. Rick and Rolf take listener calls and compare notes on how to see the world "through the back door," and then stay a while; an approach Rolf calls "Vagabonding."
Join us as we explore the art of open-ended adventures around the world 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Italy - North vs. South
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 13, 2007
Two of Rick's liveliest friends from Italy explain the regional differences between North and South, compare the loyalties, cuisine, accents, and attitudes of Italy's regions and show us how a common love of good food and soccer unites them.
From aristocratic northern business types, to southern families that almost smother travelers with their hospitality, we're contrasting the character you'll find in Italy -- from North to South -- 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Prague
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 06, 2007
Prague has recently become one of Europe's most popular cities. Two tour guides based in Prague offer tips on avoiding the summer flood of tourists and finding the city's substantial old world charm - and bargains. They'll recommend day trips into the Bohemian countryside which are now easier than ever thanks to improved rail service in the Czech Republic. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Dutch Tolerance and The Overworked American
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 29, 2007
Rick chats with tour guide Ton Van Garderen from The Netherlands about how Amsterdam makes its "live and let live" libertine policies work and what's behind the Dutch reputation for being "tolerant."
We'll also assess the state of the overworked American with author and documentary producer John DeGraff to see how we can reclaim some of the time we never seem to have enough of. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Earth Day 2007: Home Exchange; Hot Planet; Vanishing Places
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 22, 2007
For this year's Earth Day observance, we're getting close to some of the cool creatures on our hot planet. Rick meets Marty Essen, whose adventures to the far corners of the planet with his wife and love of sometimes-frightening critters were enough to fill a very engaging book.
Rick also learns how to conduct a home exchange, and discusses the World Monuments Fund list of "Vanishing Places" with author Michael Shapiro. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Sicily: The Island of Organized Chaos
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 08, 2007
As a crossroads of cultulres for millenia, Sicily is emerging as one of the most vivid islands travelers can visit in Europe. Rick interviews two tour guide friends from Sicily on what makes their island home so distinctive from the rest of Italy and what the island offers to keep visitors content for weeks.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Pilgrimage on El Camino de Santiago in Spain, Tourism in Iran
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 01, 2007
We learn about the Camino de Santiago de Compostela from a man who takes tourists on updated versions of this mideaval pilgrimage route and catch up with a Lonely Planet Iran researcher who finds that, despite the country's heavy-handed rulers, the Iranian people are some of the most welcoming you'll find anywhere.
Plus we have a new round of listeners' travel haiku to share.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Spiritual Discoveries in your Travels: Hinduism 101 and Rumi 800
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 25, 2007
Rick discusses Hinduism with a travel writer who learned lessons in the land of her ancestors and delves into the enduring appeal of an Islamic mystic known in the west as Rumi who is commemorating his 800th birthday. Listeners also share their experience with 'the kindness of strangers' as a godsend in their travels to Europe. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Celtic colors, from Ulster to France
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 18, 2007
We're looking at different angles of Irish culture for St Patrick's Day. Rick practices the "gift of gab" with Stephen McPhilemy, a friend from the North of Ireland who spins a few yarns about Ulster, and explains how the long-boiled animosities among Northern Ireland's residents are starting to fade away. And Patrick Noel, a Franco-Celtic tour guide from Cork, highlights the connections between Ireland and France. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Cuba: What's Next?
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 11, 2007
Now that Fidel Castro no longer heads the Cuban government, questions are emerging about whether Cuban authorities might start to relax control of its society, and how soon the U.S. government might rescind its economic embargo on Cuba.
On the next Travel with Rick Steves, we examine some of the anxieties, possibilities and realities regarding Americans and Cuba. Rick welcomes Cuba expert Christopher P. Baker for a discussion of what's next for Cuba in these days of political limbo, and what it means for American travelers who want to go there. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Afghanistan for Travelers and Adventure Cycling to Laos
Author: Rick Steves
Mon, Mar 05, 2007
You can't get much further off the beaten path than travelling to Afghanistan or Laos. We'll hear from Central Asia expert Paul Clammer who will give us a reality check on what travelers can expect from Afghanistan. Also, Willie Weir returns with more tales from his recent bike adventures thru Northern Thailand into Laos. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Canadian Arctic and Mardi Gras in New Orleans
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 18, 2007
We'll travel to opposite ends of our continent to learn about the appeal of the Canadian Arctic from a guidebook author who's made a home in Yellowknife and get a detailed guide to celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans, including how one French Quarter merchant is faring as tourism slowly rebounds. We'll also hear listeners' tales of heroic acts of kindness experienced on the road, and a fresh batch of traveler's haiku. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Marrying Into Spain and a Glance at Greece
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 11, 2007
When travel leads to romance, a whole new life may be the result. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, we meet an American woman who married a Spaniard and is now raising a family in the heart of Madrid. We'll also hear from an Australian tour guide who spends much of the year showing off the sites of Greece. He'll advise us on how to find the real Greece beyond the sites of Athens. And we'll hear from listeners who stared down scam artists face to face in their travels in Europe. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
People's Guide to Mexico
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 04, 2007
During the "hippy days" of the 1970s, Carl Franz and Lorena Havens made a habit of driving from Washington state to Mexico in a VW van. The couple, who still spends the better part of each year exploring the back roads and magnetic appeal of Mexico, join Rick to help explain the appealing Mexican culture. Their classic guide book, "The People's Guide to Mexico," reads like an adventure manifesto, and has recently been updated in its 13th edition. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Travel Calls with Don George & This Year in New Orleans
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 21, 2007
Rick chats with Don George from Lonely Planet publications about how Americans are being received overseas and investigates how interacting with the locals in our travels sometime means depending on the kindness of strangers. We'll also find out if New Orleans still has its 'soul' since being battered by Hurricane Katrina and learn from guidebook author Jay Cooke how "volun-tourism" may be one way to boost the spirit of the city, while still having a good time at this year's Mardi Gras and Jazzfest.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Hawaii for "malihinis" and a Cancun Update
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 14, 2007
Rick gets the latest info on what to look for while island-hopping in Hawaii from Lonely Planet's Sara Benson, and checks in with Gary Chandler who is in Mexico updating the Moon guidebook to Cancun and Cozumel. He'll report on how well the area is recovering from Hurricane Wilma, and what visitors can expect from Mexico's top resort region. We're getting the scoop on planning escapes to Hawaii and Cancun 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Eastern Europe - Then and Now
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 07, 2007
If you haven't seen Eastern Europe lately, you probably won't recognize it -- and that's just how the European Union wants it. Now that most of Eastern Europe is part of the E.U., the region is enjoying an extreme make-over.
Looking at Eastern Europe then and now, Rick gets updates from a few of his friends who grew up "behind the Iron Curtain" on how these changes have impacted their daily lives, and what the region offers American tourists today.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Sri Lanka
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 17, 2006
In 2004, Sri Lanka became one of the countries hardest hit by the Indian Ocean tsunami as it suffered damage along much of its coastline. Two years later, Sri Lanka still has some of the most picture-perfect beaches in the world, plus colorful temples, tea plantations, and festivals where visitors are welcome. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, Lonely Planet guidebook author Ryan Ver Berkmoes tells us how the island is faring today, including how the Tamil ethnic conflict is affecting tourism. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Encountering Sheep in your Travels
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 10, 2006
One of the delights of driving through the countryside is spotting sheep grazing in the fields. We'll learn about the sheep and lambs that dot the hills of rural Britain from an accomplished breeder who has created a popular tourist attraction on his farm in Wales.
We'll learn how travelers can interact with spring lambs, and the types of wool and meat these animals provide. And, Rick learns a few new tricks about how to whistle sheep herding dog commands. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Adventures in the Southern Hemisphere: Peru and Fiji
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 03, 2006
We're looking high and low for adventures in the Southern Hemisphere on this week's Travel with Rick Steves.
Adventure travel specialist Kurt Kutay (koo-TYE) fills us in on Peru's attractions, such as trekking to Machu Picchu in the Andes, and interacting with indigenous cultures and spotting wildlife in the Amazon.
And, Rick calls travel writer David Stanley to learn how travelers can find a warm welcome in Fiji, and how it compares to its neighbors in the South Pacific.
Join us for adventures in the Southern Hemisphere to Peru and Fiji, 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Visiting Vienna
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 26, 2006
If there's one city that knows how to enjoy the everyday pleasures of life, it's Vienna.
From experiencing its café culture to getting an affordable ticket to the Opera, we'll find out what makes Vienna shine as one of the world's most graceful and elegant capitols with tour guide Ursula Klaus. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Comfort Food
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 19, 2006
Some of the best souvenirs you can gather from your travels reside on your taste buds.
On the next Travel with Rick Steves, Rick explores some of the comfort foods that his European friends enjoy in Paris, Madrid, and Tuscany, and how you can enjoy them when you visit their regions. We'll get advice on preparing and eating escargot (ess-car-GO) and steak tartare (tar-TAR), and get a recipe on how to mix up your own batch of sangria (san-GREE-ah). And we hear from listeners about some of their memorable food encounters overseas.
We're whetting our appetites, European style, on this week's Travel with Rick Steves.
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Bernard-Henri Levy, Part Deux
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 12, 2006
Could Americans and Europeans benefit from an honest conversation with each other about their different ways of viewing society and the world? On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, we'll do just that, as Rick invites a best-selling French author and philosopher into the studio.
Rick discusses some of the French stereotypes that fuel American prejudices with Bernard-Henri Levy (ber-NARD on-REE leh-VEE). They examine issues France faces as part of the European Union, and suggest ways that our two societies can learn from each other.
Plus, Rick offers suggestions to listeners considering an off-season trip to Europe or traveling with teenage grandkids, on this week's Travel with Rick Steves.
FOR STATIONS WHICH HAVE ALREADY AIRED PGM #45:
Could Americans and Europeans benefit from an honest conversation with each other about their different ways of viewing society and the world? On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, we'll do just that, as Rick invites a best-selling French author and philosopher back into the studio.
Rick discusses some of the French stereotypes that fuel American prejudices with Bernard-Henri Levy (ber-NARD on-REE leh-VEE). They examine issues France faces as part of the European Union, and suggest ways that our two societies can learn from each other. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Touring South Africa
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 05, 2006
In recent years, South Africa has awakened from its Apartheid-induced embargo to become one of the continent's most popular destinations. There's plenty to experience with its local cultures and spectacular natural beauty, but it's not really the kind of place the backdoor traveler can confidently experience without doing some homework first.
Rick learns about the emerging tourism industry in South Africa from Carmin Arnot, who was born in Capetown, and now plans adventure travel for North American visitors. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Nicaragua
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 29, 2006
Because it had a tense relationship with the United States for many years, Nicaragua remains a rather mysterious destination for many Norte Americanos.
On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, Rick chats with Randall Wood, who married into the culture, and has authored two guidebooks to Nicaragua. He'll take listener calls and provide an overview of how the country is doing today.
Plus, we'll open the phones for listener comments and questions on jet lag and get the real story about Transylvania. It's on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Mexico City & the Yucatan
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 16, 2005
This week, Rick discusses the appeal of our neighbors in Mexico, from the frenzy of its must-see capital to the deep blue waters and nightlife around Cancun, and the Mayan artifacts of the Yucatan Peninsula. Plus, we'll take listener calls from people planning trips to Europe...on Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Ireland, North and South
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 27, 2005
This week we will talk about Ireland with two of Rick's tour guide friends from the North and South. We'll find out how much Ireland has changed in recent years due to its impressive economic surge. The cost of travel has skyrocketed for Americans, but as guests Declan Field and Stephen McPhilemy and our callers confirm, it's the Irish people that make visiting a priceless experience. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Food Culture
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 24, 2005
Rick shares some of his delicacy discoveries found in different parts of Europe that make travel a gastronomic treat. Tour guide Jamie Blair Gould discusses different kinds of Italian olives and olive oils, and describes where he lives. Then, he and Rick field listener calls on such topics as white asparagus, porcini mushrooms, in-season tomatoes, paella, truffles, and finding a smoke-free ambiance in European restaurants. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Traveling By Bike and Nepal
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 10, 2005
On the debut broadcast of Travel with Rick Steves, Rick learns how a bicycle can get you into more places than you'd ever expect from adventure bicycling enthusiast Willie Weir, and explores the magic of trekking the Himalayans in Nepal with Moon Handbook author, Kerry Moran. Enjoy these guests, as well as phone calls and emails from listeners eager to talk about their travel plans. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Egypt, Travel Agent 101
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 17, 2005
Rick will interview tour guide Colin Clement about the highlights of traveling to Egypt, and travel agent Elizabeth Holmes about recent changes to the travel industry. We'll also take calls from travelers planning their summer vacations, and listen to some of our winning haiku entries. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
European Food Culture
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 24, 2005
Rick shares some of his delicacy discoveries found in different parts of Europe that make travel a gastronomic treat. Tour guide Jamie Blair Gould discusses different kinds of Italian olives and olive oils, and describes where he lives. Then, he and Rick field listener calls on such topics as white asparagus, porcini mushrooms, in-season tomatoes, paella, truffles, and finding a smoke-free ambiance in European restaurants. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Cuba
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 01, 2005
Rick discusses travel to Cuba, and how and why Americans vacation there despite the official embargo. Christopher P. Baker, author of Moon Handbooks: Cuba, will join Rick in explaining what travelers will discover when visiting this fascinating destination. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
North America Road Trips; Wales
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 08, 2005
Rick learns about the charms of Wales from Welshman Martin DeLandowicz, and attempts to speak some otherwise undecipherable phrases in the Welsh Celtic language; also, Rick chats with Jamie Jensen for the first time, author of an extensive guidebook on road trips in the USA and Canada, and takes listener calls on their recommended back highway trips. Jamie will return in future programs with more road trip ideas. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Poland
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 15, 2005
Rick learns how quickly Poland has modernized in the past ten years in a conversation with Polish tour guide Kasia Derlicka. Kasia offers ideas for travelers investigating genealogical roots and history and explains some of the soul of Poland, as reflected in the music of native-born Frederick Chopin. Also, Cameron Hewitt, co-author of Rick's Eastern European guidebook, found himself in Krakow on the April night word spread that the Pope had died. He describes the scene and its place in modern Polish history. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Mexico City & the Yucatan
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 22, 2005
This week, Rick discusses the appeal of our neighbors in Mexico, from the frenzy of its must-see capital to the deep blue waters and nightlife around Cancun, and the Mayan artifacts of the Yucatan Peninsula. Plus, we'll take listener calls from people planning trips to Europe...on Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Scotland
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 29, 2005
Rick learns about the history and present-day allure of the Scottish highlands from Arthur Smith, a proprietor and true gentleman of the auld cloth, who ran a bed and breakfast in Glencoe, Scotland until his recent passing. Rick then fields calls from a young woman planning a trip with her sister and mother, and from a listener who gets philosophical on the last trip he'd want to make in his life. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Packing Light & The South Pacific
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 05, 2005
How can you travel for ten weeks with one suitcase? Rick says it is important to travel light, and to pack only one carry-on's worth of clothes and accessories. He shares packing tips for different climates, and learns about packing light for women from Joan Robinson, who leads frequent workshops on the topic. Also, Rick talks to one of his mentors in the field of travel writing, South Pacific guidebook author David Stanley. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Ireland, North and South
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 12, 2005
This week we will talk about Ireland with two of Rick's tour guide friends from the North and South. We'll find out how much Ireland has changed in recent years due to its impressive economic surge. The cost of travel has skyrocketed for Americans, but as guests Declan Field and Stephen McPhilemy and our callers confirm, it's the Irish people that make visiting a priceless experience. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Japan & More USA Road Trips
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 19, 2005
Japan has long held a fascination for travelers from around the world. But its culture and language have often proved impenetrable for outsiders. This week we'll get an insider's perspective on having a rich experience when traveling to Japan. Ruth Kanagy has written a Living Abroad in Japan guidebook based on her years of experience as an American raised in Japan. And, we get another taste of USA Road Trip fever as Jamie Jensen talks to Rick and callers about approaching the roads less traveled in the USA. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Ecuador & Traveling Around the World in 80 Dates
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 26, 2005
From the newly-beautified old town district of Quito two miles high in the Andes to the ecological marvels of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador is one of South America's must-experience treats for any world traveler. So how can you make contact with the native Quechua people and what safety precautions should you take? Rick finds out from Julian Smith, author of the Moon Handbook to Ecuador.
Later in the program we will meet Jennifer Cox, who quit her job in Britain and made plans to date 80 men in 18 countries around the world. She eventually met Mr. Right in the Nevada Desert. She explains to Rick how that happened in her new book, "Around the World in 80 Dates." For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Turkey and the United States Southeast
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 03, 2005
Travelers to both Turkey and Dixie have one thing in common: they come back from their trips full of stories and enthusiasm for the people they met.
This week we will meet a married tour guide couple from Istanbul, Turkey who are here to dispel some American misconceptions about their country. They will then give us an overview of what you'll find in the cities and the countryside of Turkey.
We will also learn the essence of "Shun-piking" with backroad car trip suggestions from guidebook author Jamie Jensen. Our callers will highlight some of the Southeast's attractions from Key West to Tidewater, and Louisiana to the Blue Ridge mountains. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Americans in France
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 10, 2005
What kind of reaction do you get when you mention France? During the program, Rick and his guest Steve Smith, an American who divides his time between Seattle and Burgundy, will look at how Americans can understand France on its own terms, and become comfortable with its rich civilization without being frustrated by the inevitable cultural faux pas. Then, French tour guides William and Marie Altman and Patrick Vidal will discuss the pleasures of taking a vacation on a canal barge in rural France. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Netherlands and Oceania
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 17, 2005
The sea helps define two destinations Rick discusses with his guests on this week's Travel with Rick Steves.
Netherlands is one of the real powerhouses of Europe, despite its small geography. You'll find industrial innovation, Spring flowers on a massive scale, and a role model for how to live together in a crowded modern society. Tour guide Rolinka Bloeming takes listener calls to discuss what an American can expect from a visit to the Netherlands.
David Stanley has written the definitive guidebook to the islands of the South Pacific, collectively known as Oceania. He provides an overview to this often-overlooked part of the planet, including how they're anticipating the effects of global warming on their island nations. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Italian Wine
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 24, 2005
This week, Rick learns the fine points of sampling fine wine with vintner Cecelia Bottai (che-CHEE_lya bo-TYE) and Ruth Arista (ar-REES-ta).
Cecelia's vineyards have been growing grapes for 2000 years in Italy's Umbria region, and Ruth operates a wine shop in Rick's hometown in the Seattle suburbs. They discuss the difference in reputation between red, white and rosé wines in Europe, and what your senses can look for when sampling a good glass of wine.
It's "Wine Tasting 101," plus listener calls on planning family trips to Europe, on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Costa Rica
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 31, 2005
Costa Rica stands out from its neighbors in Central America due to its relatively stable government and high standard of living. It's a favorite destination for North Americans because of its dedication to preservation. Erin Van Rheenen spent enough time there that she wrote the guidebook, Living Abroad in Costa Rica. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Slovenia and the American Southwest
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 07, 2005
Yearning for some of the lesser-explored adventures at home and overseas? Today we will learn about the country of Slovenia, where the slow food movement and the polka are popular. And, we get ideas for exploring the back roads of the American desert southwest, its national parks and Indian Country, from Road Trip USA author Jamie Jensen. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Amore in Italia
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 14, 2005
It's hard to beat Italy as a romantic destination, unless you actually fall in love and make it your home. Rick chats with two American women who have married Italian men and settled in Italy. Former Seattleite Lisa Anderson describes her experience moving to Italy and eventually starting a family in a small town in the Piedmont region. And former Washington D.C. resident Annie Adair also met her spouse in Italy and now runs a wedding planning and tour guide company from Volterra in Tuscany. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
To Tour or not to Tour?
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 21, 2005
Suggestions for renting a car and finding mom and pop inns in Scotland? (Carolyn in Oregon)
What's the right etiquette for meeting distant relatives in Europe? (Stephanie, Salt Lake City)
Looking for info on visiting Luxembourg (Nicole, Oakland CA)
For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Argentina and Travel Writing
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 28, 2005
One place Americans can find European-style charm at bargain prices is by flying south -- to Argentina. On the next Travel with Rick Steves, Rick learns why tour guide Robert Wright found Buenos Aires so irresistible that he ended up moving there from Spain.
We'll also get the inside story among travel writers as Rick chats with one of his favorites, David Stanley, on the business of writing guide books for a living. That, and advice on getting the most out of travel to Paris, Sicily and Tuscany are on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
London & Bermuda
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 04, 2005
Rick will get an insider's view of London from Gillian Chadwick, a certified blue badge guide. She and Rick share pointers on what's new and how to get the most out of this crowded, expensive, and amazing city. Then Rick heads west to Bermuda with guidebook author Rosemary Jones. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Accessible Europe and Roadtrips in the Rockies and Pacific Northwest
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 18, 2005
A trip to the cobblestoned streets of Europe can be a nightmare for anyone in a wheelchair or who has difficulty walking. This week, Rick Steves talks to Ken Plattner, an activist for disabled persons. Ken recently teamed with Rick to create a guidebook for persons with accessibility issues. We'll also get suggestions from Jamie Jensen on another set of USA Roadtrips -- this time in the Rockies and Pacific Northwest. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Prague
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 25, 2005
Prague is so popular with western visitors, and we'll find out why from Tour Guide Honza Vihan, a native of the golden city of a hundred spires. Rick also makes time for listener calls, including one report about their month in Egypt. Rick calls a youth hostel high in the Swiss Alps to see how things are going on a typical evening as new friends gather together. We're getting plenty of mileage this week from Prague to Cairo to Gimmewald. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Panama and Renting a French Country Home
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 02, 2005
Guidebook Author William Friar spent his childhood in Panama, and lets us know about post-Noriega Panama...where one U.S. dollar will buy you dinner. He'll also discuss how travelers can easily find a tropical landscape shared more by birds and butterflies than with other tourists. We'll then learn more about the 'gite' ("jheet") system of renting a French country home by the week, from an American who bought one in Burgundy. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Off the Beaten Track: Galapagos, Central Asia, and Southwest USA
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 09, 2005
A traveler can experience a true sense of discovery by venturing "off the beaten path" into places not often visited by the average vacationer. And that's what we're doing on the next Travel with Rick Steves.
This week, Rick takes us around the world in an hour, to find out what special arrangements are needed to visit the Galapagos Islands, to learn what the cultural influence of Turkey means for the emerging Central Asia republics, and to experience a road trip from Dallas into the desert southwest of the USA.
It's not your average itinerary as we discover adventures "off the beaten path" 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Belize and Alpine Ski and Lake Resorts
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 23, 2005
This week, Rick Steves learns about Belize, Central America's relatively new country, from guidebook author Joshua Berman. It's a little bit Caribbean, a little bit Latin American, and all with a British heritage. Then, European tour guide Donald White stops in to describ his home in Northern Italy, with suggestions for lake and ski resorts in the Alps. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Exploring the World Through Religion
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 30, 2005
Rick learns about Islam -- where it's commonly practiced in Turkey from friends who live in Istanbul. He then places a call to Rome to chat with a resident of that city's little-known Jewish Ghetto, whose family emigrated there from Jerusalem two thousand years ago. We'll also hear from a listener who recently returned from a trip to Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
An Insider's Guide to The French Riviera
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 06, 2005
Mention the French Riviera, and images of glamorous celebrities may come to mind. But the Mediterranean coast of France was also the inspiration for some of the great impressionist and modern artists, and has plenty of charm to spare year-round for all kinds of travelers. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, tour guide Pascale Rucker is our guest, bringing us an insider's guide to help you experience the sensual pleasures of the French Riviera. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Adventure Divas in Cuba, and Ask the Pilot about Flight Safety
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 13, 2005
afety
This week, we will "Ask the Pilot" about how an over-active imagination can create a fear of flying. Commercial pilot, author, and salon.com columnist Patrick Smith joins Rick to explain what's going on from the cockpit to the runway. And Holly Morris, author of "Adventure Divas," will discuss her exploration of the planet in search of impressive and influential women to interview. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
French Food and Faux Pas
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Nov 20, 2005
This week, we'll learn some of the basics of eating out in France and how to enjoy such foods as crèpes, escargot, truffles and steak tartare. But the culture of everyday life in France is different enough for travelers that it sometimes causes misunderstandings and embarrassment. We'll touch on some of the faux pas visitors face when encountering French society on its own terms. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Honduras Overview and an American in Rio
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 04, 2005
If you like to travel off the beaten track, and want to get the most out of your travel dollar, Honduras might be just the ticket. This week, Rick learns from guidebook author Chris Humphrey about Honduras -- a laid back part of Central America with endless beaches, a huge undeveloped roadless jungle and cloud forest, and a growing American ex-pat community. Or, if you prefer a more cosmopolitan side of Latin America, we'll also chat with an American now living in Rio de Janeiro to see how easy it is to fit into Brazilian society. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Discovering "A Sense of Place"
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 11, 2005
Travel journalist Michael Shapiro set out on a literary project to interview 18 travel authors to see what makes their work such a pleasure. He turned his interviews into a book called "A Sense of Place." This week, Rick turns the tables on Michael to find out what he discovered about his favorite travel authors -- including Rick. We'll learn about the roots of some of today's most celebrated nomads, and perhaps refine our own palette for wanderlust. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Christmas in Europe
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Dec 25, 2005
Join us this holiday season for Travel with Rick Steves Christmas in Europe radio special! During the program, Rick hears how his European friends prepare for and celebrate Christmas. Listeners learn the common threads of religious tradition and family, get acquainted with some of Santa's cousins in the old country, as well as experience extended interviews. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Mexico City and the Yucatan
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 07, 2006
This week, Rick discusses the appeal of our neighbors in Mexico, from the frenzy of its must-see capital to the deep blue waters and nightlife around Cancun, and the Mayan artifacts of the Yucatan Peninsula. Plus, we'll take listener calls from people planning trips to Europe...on Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Cortona and Fear of Flying
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 08, 2006
Italy has become one of the hottest destinations for European travel -- and for good reason. Smart travelers know how to avoid crowds and, as a result, enjoy a genuine experience of Italy. Rick chats with a local from Cortona, the hilltown known to Americans as the setting for "Under the Tuscan Sun," and for those afraid to fly, Rick receives tips from Steve Hutchison, who leads a Fear of Flying workshop. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Insiders Guide to Greece
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 15, 2006
From the newly spruced up capital of Athens , to the sun-drenched villages of the mainland and the islands, it's no myth that Greece is a pleasure to experience. Greece provides countless opportunities for travelers to experience its rich history in the ruins of its ancient past. Yet modern-day Greece carries its own weight as a desirable destination. Visiting ancient sites in Greece is something every seasoned traveler should do at least once, and this week Rick gets an insider's perspective on visiting Greece from tour guide Penny Kolomvatsou. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Exploring Mexico's Pacific Coast and An American Singer in Istanbul
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 22, 2006
Mexico is the perfect destination for North Americans seeking sun, fun, and a colorful, distinctive culture. Rick explores some of the popular Pacific coast destinations of Mexico, from Puerto Vallarta down to Acapulco and Oaxaca (wah-HAH-ka), with guidebook author Bruce Whipperman.
We visit with a singer who spends part of the year working to make a living in Seattle, but lives like royalty when she's got a gig in Istanbul. Julie Cascioppo (cass-ee-OH-po) tells us how her career as a singer helps her to travel in style. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
The Changing Face of Berlin and Gay/Lesbian Travel with Ed Salvato
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 29, 2006
In the past decade and a half, Berlin has re-emerged as one of Europe's major capitals -- it's changing so quickly even tourism officials have difficulty keeping up. Rick gets the latest on Berlin 's rebirth from EurAide's Lee Evans.
Berlin is also one of the major worldwide destinations favored by gay and lesbian travelers. We'll learn what's happening in this travel market with Ed Salvato, editor of OutandAbout.com, a website run by the largest gay publisher in North America. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Putting Together the Newspaper Travel Section
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 05, 2006
Millions of people scratch their travel itch each week by reading their newspaper's travel section. Rick takes us behind the scenes at the San Francisco Chronicle to find out what its senior travel editor is looking for as he assembles the paper's storyboards each week. Whether readers are looking for the latest on exotic destinations, or just want an interesting place to take a Sunday drive, John Flinn knows that his newspaper often plays an important part in shaping their travel dreams -- and the fortunes of the travel industry.
We'll also present our latest round of listener travel haiku awards, and open the phones for listener questions and ideas. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
River Rafting in Idaho & Four Corners USA
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 19, 2006
200 years ago, Lewis and Clark charted the rivers of what is now Northwestern America. In the 21st Century, travelers seek the same mountains and rivers to get away from their crowded urban lives. Rick discusses the basics of back-country river rafting with Peter Grub, who runs a river adventure company in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. We'll also chat with Julian Smith about the Four Corners area of the US Desert Southwest, talk with listeners about travel plans and challenges, and take a tour of Montreal with a listener who lives there. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
World Cup Soccer 2006
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Feb 26, 2006
After Italy hosts the Winter Olympics, Germany heats up for the championship games of the World Cup soccer tournament in June. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, Rick assembles a panel of European soccer fanatics to explain what the excitement is all about. Whether your summer travel plans include trying to take in some of the action around the games, or trying to avoid it, you'll want to hear what's behind the world's biggest, and most passionate, sporting competition. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Egypt
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 05, 2006
Egypt is a land of mysteries -- and the biggest mystery travelers face is what to expect while visiting there. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, Colin Clement joins Rick from his home in Alexandria, Egypt to take your calls and discuss how you can get the most out of your vacation in Egypt. Plus listeners add advice for planning vacation trips to Europe, and we announcce our latest round of listener haiku awards. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Ireland, Revisited
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 12, 2006
From the deep green, rocky hills to the evocative smell of a peat log burning in the fireplace, you'll know you're in Ireland. But it's the people that every visitor remembers best, whether you visit the touristy destinations like the Ring of Kerry, or plot your own route on the island's back roads. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, Rick invites back two Irish tour guide friends to offer a little help understanding the modern Ireland, whose newfound affluence has made it one of the more expensive destinations in Europe. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Growing up Under Communism
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jan 01, 2006
We'll visit with three of Rick Steves' tour guide friends from Eastern Europe. We'll find out what it was like being raised in different types of Communist countries, and how their lives have changed since capitalism was introduced to Poland and the republics of the former Yugoslavia. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Bernard-Henri Levy, author of <em>American Vertigo: Traveling America in the Footsteps of Tocqueville</em>.
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 19, 2006
Rick Steves meets French philosopher Bernard-Henri Levy, a household name in his home country (where they simply call him "BHL"). During the height of recent tensions between political factions in the US and "old Europe," BHL traveled all across America, meeting with average Americans of all types, and wrote a book about our country's cultural identity, patriotism, and the creed that holds the U.S. together as a nation. His assertions may surprise you. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
English Gardens
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Mar 26, 2006
What better way to enjoy the world in bloom than to wander through an English country garden? Rick Steves asks British tour guide Roy Nichols about the English passion for elaborate gardens. Then Rick and Roy take listener calls and share tips to help you to experience the wide variety of gardens in Great Britain. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
An Insider's Guide to Paris
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 09, 2006
When Ella Fitzgerald sang "April in Paris," she knew the perfect place to combine fresh flowers, spring showers, and romance. Half a century later, no other city comes close.
Whether you're dreaming of your first trip to Paris, or planning a return, you'll enjoy Parisian tour guide Arnaud Servignant's inside look at his home town. We'll also take listener calls about cultural faux pas they've experienced in their visits to the City of Light -- all on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Traveling with a Musical Theme
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 16, 2006
2006 is being celebrated as Mozart's 250th birthday, reminding us that your next destination's music scene can provide a theme (pun intended) for your trip.
On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, our guest is Margaret Hemmen, a professional musician who leads music-oriented tours through Europe. Whether your next trip includes visits to concert halls, tossing coins at street musicians, or shopping for that special hand-crafted instrument... this show will have you tapping your toes in anticipation. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Ethical Travels on a Green Planet
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 23, 2006
Does travel have to be bad for the environment? Does eco-tourism really help the planet -- or just hurt it less? What's an ethical traveler to do? On this week's Travel with Rick Steves we'll discuss the goals and impacts of eco-tourism with Jeff Greenwald of of Ethical Traveler dot org, and ponder the future of some noteworthy "Vanishing Places" on our planet with travel writer Michael Shapiro. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Royalty
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Apr 30, 2006
Rick removes some of the mystery, but not the glamour, of European Royalty with help from guests Roy Nichols and Norway's Princess Martha Louise. Tour guide Roy Nichols gives Rick an overview of the British royal family and discusses why they remain an important instituion to the average Briton. Princess Martha Louise of Norway, who has written a children's book, "Why Kings and Queens Don't Wear Crowns" explains the modern realities of being from a royal family. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Tour Industry Insider
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 21, 2006
Is an organized tour right for you? This week, Rick explores the advantages of, and some potential problems with, "big bus tourism," with industry consultant Rick Hazen. He offers tips on safeguarding against potential rip-offs, and explains how the tour industry works. Find out how bus tours and cruise ship operators make money, and how to get the most out of your vacation budget on a group tour, as we get the inside scoop on tour companies. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Arthur Frommer
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, May 28, 2006
It's been almost 50 years since Arthur Frommer (FROE-mer) first published his groundbreaking travel guidebook "Europe on Five Dollars a Day." In the 1970s, Frommer's books helped instruct a young Rick Steves how to travel light, on a tight budget, and "through the back door" to interact with the people and authentic cultures overseas. Arthur Frommer is Rick's special guest on this week's edition of Travel with Rick Steves, as they reminisce and chat about how much international travel has changed over the past half-century. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Tuscany & Umbria
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 04, 2006
Take a holiday to Mona Lisa's backyard on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. We'll examine the enormous appeal of Italy's Tuscany region, and its quieter neighbor Umbria. Rick chats with Cecelia Bottai (cha-CHEE-lia bo-TYE), a winemaker from Orvieto (or-vee-AY-to), about how visitors can experience authentic local culture in central Italy's hilltowns and estates. We'll also hear another round of listener haiku poems. Grab a glass of Orvieto classico and a seat on the plaza as we talk about Tuscany and Umbria 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
From Turkey to the Persian Gulf
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 11, 2006
Adventurous travelers know that Turkey is the welcoming entree to a secularized Muslim society. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, tour guide Lale Surman Aran (LAH-lay SOOR-man ah-RAHN) joins Rick to help plan listeners' sight seeing itineraries to Turkey's significant ancient sites, by land and by sea...
And, travel writer David Stanley reports on what he found on a recent visit to the Persian Gulf region, whose small nations are emerging as important centers for international business, and pleasure, in the middle of the Arab world. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Meeting the Maasai in East Africa
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 18, 2006
Get up close to African wildlife and forge an emotional connection with an ancient indigenous culture as we explore what it takes to go on an eco-friendly safari. A representative of the Maasai (mah-SIGH) people and the head of an adventure travel company join Rick in the studio to take your calls about visiting Maasai country. We're planning for the trip of a lifetime on a safari to East Africa on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Two "Wild and Crazy" Countries: Slovenia & Croatia
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jun 25, 2006
(note: June 25 is National Day in Slovenia; and it is also statehood day in Croatia - they each declared independence from Yugoslavia 15 years ago -- in 1991. )
They're celebrating 15 years of independence in Slovenia and Croatia, and we're joining in the party on this week's Travel with Rick Steves.
Rick's tour guide friends from Slovenia join us in the studio to take listener calls and fill us in on why their small country has become the place to be for a no-pressure, bargain European escape - at least until they adopt the Euro and prices go up next year.
Join us as we get an insider's guide to Slovenia -- a pastoral land with storybook castles, turbo-folk music, and a collection of 'wild and crazy guys,' on the sunny side of the Alps. And we'll also take a detour along the Adriatic coast of Croatia, on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Las Vegas & Yosemite
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 02, 2006
We're looking at two of America's most popular getaways on this week's Travel with Rick Steves.
We'll get the latest on one of the world's hottest destinations -- Las Vegas, Nevada, where high stakes entertainment has replaced the ultra-cheap deals for which the Las Vegas Strip was famous. Rick Garman has a new guidebook to the city, and tells us how to enjoy Vegas without "losing your shirt."
Then, we'll cool off in the mountains with an overview of California's Yosemite (yo-SEM-it-tee) National Park with Ann Marie Brown, who knows it inside and out, and what it offers visitors year-round.
Lady Luck and Mother Nature are calling us to Las Vegas and Yosemite...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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Small Wonders: Belgium & Belize
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 09, 2006
Good things often come in small packages. This week on Travel with Rick Steves, we'll investigate two small countries in Europe and Latin America that are often overlooked as destinations in their own right.
Belgium has been in the center of much of Europe's action for centuries, and it now hosts the political capital of the European Union. It's a country with a remarkably easy-going flair, and great food. Native son tour guide Ferdi Menghi joins Rick to take listener calls about Belgium.
Then, Kurt Kutay (koo-TIE) introduces us to an indigenous tour guide in Belize, for an overview of Belize for adventure travelers. That, and another round of listener's travel haiku, are coming up 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
French Culture 201 for the American Traveler
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 16, 2006
(note: Bastille Day, the major French national holiday, is July 14)
When you examine the tensions that sometimes arise between Americans and the French, many of them come from the different ways our two cultures operate. On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, Rick takes a deeper look at the cultural faux pas some travelers experience in France. Our insider's guide to France and its culture comes from two native-born French tour guides, based in opposite corners of the country. That, and your calls about the best, and worst, food you've found in your travels, are coming up 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Naples and the Amalfi Coast
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Jul 23, 2006
You really haven't seen Italy until you travel south to Naples. It's one of the most intense and chaotic urban scenes in all of Europe.
So American-born tour guide Nina Bernardo, who now lives there, joins us to help clear the misconceptions about Napoli. She'll also clue us in to the attractions of the nearby resort areas, such as Sorrento and Capri.
We also hear from travelers who found ways to fend off the scam artists that the Naples train station is famous for. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
RV Travel & Adventure Bicycling in Laos & Northern Thailand
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 06, 2006
We're exploring both ends of the transportation spectrum on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. Rick learns about the R-V subculture from Chuck Woodbury, who runs an online site for R-V travel. Chuck says that R-V camping has become a popular way to take the great American roadtrip -- even if the roads are overseas. Also, adventure bicyclist Willie Weir tells us about his most recent bike trip through Northern Thailand and Laos.
Whether you've got two wheels or more...join us as we explore travel by bike and by R-V...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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Ken Hanley's Scotland
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 13, 2006
On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, Rick updates our itineraries on Scotland with native-born tour guide Ken Hanley. They discuss the tensions Scotland has had over the years with England, and take listener calls about visiting the trendy cities and lonely outer islands that make Scotland so special.
And while the food's improved in Scotland in recent years, we'll get more of your stories about the best, and worst, food you've encountered in your travels -- from the Himalayas to Antarctica.
That, and another round of listener travel haiku, are coming up on Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Hungary
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 20, 2006
(note: Aug 20 is Hungary's Constitution Day national holiday) Whether you're up for a night at the opera, or a day "taking the curative waters" at a hot spring, Hungary has a classy way of making you feel welcome. And its hearty wine and cuisine will keep you satisfied for hours.
On this week's Travel with Rick Steves, a tour guide friend and teacher from Hungary joins Rick to take listener calls and tell us what her country is like in today's post-Soviet era.
Join us for an insider's guide to Hungary, 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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Sabbaticals
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Aug 27, 2006
It's long been a tradition in academia and many religious institutions. But it turns out anyone can benefit from a little time off the regular routine for a "sabbatical." On the next Travel with Rick Steves, we examine the practicalities and benefits of taking a sabbatical.
Whether it involves months away from the job, or it's a vacation centered on helping others, sabbaticals are still a valuable way to explore the world -- including the one inside yourself. We're learning about "sabbaticals," and hearing your travel stories, on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Spain
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 10, 2006
You probably already know that the flamenco, Sunday evening bullfights, tapas, and sangria are some of the flavors of Spain. Now, as part of the European Union, Spain is a re-energized democracy that might also provide us examples for coping with the threats of terrorism.
Carlos Galvin (gal-VEEN), a travel specialist from Madrid, joins Rick this week to describe today's scene in his homeland, and to take listener calls about visiting Spain.
Also, we'll learn how the Spanish tradition of taking a midday nap -- the siesta -- has been helping Spaniards beat stress for centuries...and how its days may be numbered in modern, urban culture. Julio Astor (WHO-lee-oh AS-tor) of the Spanish Tourism Board joins Rick to explain the role of "the siesta."
Discover the pleasures of Spain and its distinctive culture, on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Armenia
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Sep 17, 2006
(note: Sept 21 is Armenian Independence Day) It's one of the newest nations in the world, and one of its oldest civilizations. And this week, Armenia is celebrating 15 years as an independent republic. We'll find out why it's a classic "back door" destination, on the next edition of Travel with Rick Steves.
Rick's guest is Matthew Karanian (kah-RAIN-ee-ann), an American drawn to the land of his grandparents, who has co-authored a definitive guidebook to Armenia and the neighboring disputed land of Karabagh (CAR-ah-bock).
We'll learn how Armenia provides a unique link to the ancient world, with some of the earliest Christian churches, a distinct language from its Indo-European neighbors, eco-tourism in its untouched countryside, and a society that has persisted for three thousand years, despite many adversaries.
We're getting acquainted with Armenia...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.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Eastern Germany
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 01, 2006
Christoph Dressler was raised a few miles east of the Berlin wall. He now earns a living taking tourists around his re-unified country.
This week on Travel with Rick Steves, he describes the scene that few American tourists ever experience in the Eastern parts of Germany, and takes listener calls about the must-see sites in Berlin, Dresden, and in the land of Luther.
You're invited to sit with us at the Stammtisch (STAHM-tish) table -- that's the one reserved for the locals -- as we get the inside scoop on visiting Eastern Germany...on Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Sicily & Germany's Black Forest
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 08, 2006
If you like the people, tempo, and joy of living you find in Italy then you'll love Sicily. But for some Americans, the frenzied yet laid-back style of Italy's big southern island can be a bit overwhelming. So on this week's Travel with Rick Steves local tour guide Alfio di Mauro AHL-fee-oh dee MOW-ro) joins Rick to take listener calls and offer insider tips on getting the most out of a vacation to Sicily.
And, for something completely different, German tour guide Christoph Dressler returns with an overview of the Black Forest region, where Germans are prescribed time off from work to soak in mineral spas and to "power hike" in the mountains.
We're plunging head first into Sicily and the Black Forest on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
Architecture in your European Travels
Author: Rick Steves
Sun, Oct 15, 2006
Knowing what's behind the walls, as well as what goes into them, can be quite the illuminating experience. Rick invites architecture professor Kathryn Rogers Merlino from the University of Washington to help make sense of flying buttresses and Roman ruins.
And for something exotic, we'll also get a snapshot of what it's like to visit Katmandu, and read our latest round of listeners' travel haiku. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com.
Download File - 1.9 MB
Listen To This Podcast (Streaming Audio)
- Published:
2002
- LearnOutLoud.com Product ID:
T019468
Social Sciences
Current Events
Travel
|