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Travel with Rick Steves: Program Archives

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Europe
Austria/Benelux/Germany Britain/Ireland/Scandinavia Eastern Europe France
  • Berlin City Guide
  • Changing Face of Berlin
  • Dutch Tolerance
  • Eastern Germany
  • Netherlands
  • Sicily & Germany's Black Forest
  • Small Wonders: Belgium & Belize
  • Visiting Vienna
  • A Midsummer's Guide to Sweden
  • Celtic Colors: From Ulster to France
  • Dublin City Guide
  • Edinburgh — Cultural Heart of Scotland
  • English Gardens
  • Ireland
  • Ireland 2006
  • Ken Hanley's Scotland
  • London
  • London 2008
  • Scotland
  • The Celtic Fringes of Britain: Wales & Scotland
  • Wales
  • Eastern Europe: Then & Now
  • Hungary
  • Poland
  • Prague
  • Czech Republic
  • Shaking off the Soviets in Eastern Europe and the 'Stans of Central Asia
  • Slovenia
  • Slovenia & Croatia
  • Travel Budapest
  • Americans in France
  • Bernard-Henri Levy: Part Deux
  • French Food and Faux Pas
  • French Culture 201
  • French Riviera
  • Insider's Guide to Paris
  • Renting a French Country Home
  • Barging through France
  • Paris City Guide
Greece/Turkey Italy Spain General Europe
  • An American Singer in Istanbul
  • From Turkey to the Persian Gulf
  • Insiders Guide to Greece
  • Islam in Turkey & Rome's Jewish
  • Istanbul City Guide
  • Look East: Eastern Europe to Eastern Turkey
  • Marrying into Spain & Greece at a Glance
  • Spiritual Discoveries in your Travels
  • Thorny Issues: Turkey and Tibet
  • Travel Stories and Today's Republic of Turkey
  • Turkey
  • Alpine Ski and Lake Resorts
  • Amore in Italia
  • Cortona
  • Islam in Turkey & Rome's Jewish
  • Italy: North vs. South
  • Naples and the Amalfi Coast
  • Rome City Guide
  • Sicily & Germany's Black Forest
  • Sicily: Island of Organized Chaos
  • Time and Money; Looking Up Relatives in Sicily
  • Traveling on your stomach: Everyday Italian Cuisine
  • Tuscany & Umbria
  • Madrid to Mauritius
  • Marrying into Spain & Greece at a Glance
  • Pilgrimage on El Camino de Santiago
  • Spain
  • Architecture
  • Conscientious Travel; Oceania to Amsterdam
  • Christmas in Europe
  • Encountering Sheep in your Travels
  • European Business Customs
  • European Comfort
  • European Christmas Traditions
  • European Food Traditions
  • Food
  • International Christmas Traditions
  • Tony Wheeler's "Lonely Planet"
  • International New Year's Traditions
  • Rescuing Da Vinci: How the Allies Saved The World's Masterpieces from World War Two
Beyond Europe
Africa Asia Middle East Oceania
  • Egypt
  • Egypt 2006
  • Meeting the Maasai in East Africa
  • Touring South Africa
  • Afghanistan for Travelers & Adventure Cycling in Laos
  • An American Travel Guide to China
  • Armenia
  • American Desert Road Trips; Bali, Indonesia
  • Cambodia
  • Japan
  • Nepal
  • Adventure cycling in Laos & North Thailand
  • Shaking off the Soviets in Eastern Europe and the 'Stans of Central Asia
  • Sri Lanka
  • Thorny Issues: Turkey and Tibet
  • Afghanistan for Travelers & Adventure Cycling in Laos
  • From Turkey to the Persian Gulf
  • First Impressions of India
  • Tourism in Iran
  • Adventures in the Southern Hemisphere: Peru & Fiji
  • Australia & Mardi Gras in New Orleans
  • Madrid to Mauritius
  • Oceania
  • Off the Beaten Track Emails, Amazon Adventures, and Maori Culture
  • Samoa
  • Southern Exposure: New Zealand & Baja California, Mexico
The Americas
North America Central America & South America
  • Alaska Overview & Road Tripping with the Kids
  • American Desert Road Trips; Bali, Indonesia
  • American Southwest
  • Australia & Mardi Gras in New Orleans
  • Canadian Arctic
  • Emerging Destinations & American Favorites: Route 66, New York City
  • Four Corners USA
  • Hawaii for "malihinis" & a Cancun Update
  • Las Vegas & Yosemite
  • Mardi Gras in New Orleans
  • Mexico City & the Yucatán
  • Mexico's Pacific Coast
  • The People's Guide to Mexico
  • North America Road Trips
  • The Overworked American
  • River Rafting in Idaho
  • Roadtrips in the Rockies and the Pacific Northwest
  • Travel Calls with Don George & This Year in New Orleans
  • Southern Exposure: New Zealand & Baja California, Mexico
  • United States Southeast
  • Adventure Divas in Cuba
  • An American in Rio
  • Argentina
  • Belize
  • Bermuda
  • Cuba
  • Cuba: What's Next?
  • Adventures in the Southern Hemisphere: Peru & Fiji
  • Costa Rica
  • Ecuador
  • Galapagos Islands
  • Honduras Overview
  • Nicaragua
  • Off the Beaten Track Emails, Amazon Adventures, and Maori Culture
  • Panama
  • Belgium & Belize
General Travel
Authors/Specialists Politcs/Activism/Religion Special Interest
  • Arthur Frommer
  • Ask the Pilot about Flight Safety
  • Bernard-Henri Levy
  • Discovering a "Sense of Place"
  • Eric Weiner and The Geography of Bliss
  • Rolf Potts: "Vagabonding"
  • Royalty
  • Tony Wheeler's "Bad Lands"
  • Tony Wheeler's "Lonely Planet"
  • Tour Industry Insider
  • Travel Writing with Don George; Cambodia
  • Traveling Around the World in 80 Dates
  • Conscientious Travel; Oceania to Amsterdam
  • Ethical Travels on a Green Planet
  • Growing Up Under Communism
  • Islam in Turkey & Rome's Jewish
  • Rescuing Da Vinci: How the Allies Saved The World's Masterpieces from World War Two
  • Spiritual Discoveries in your Travels
  • Accessible Europe
  • Earth Day 2007: Home Exchange; Hot Planet; Vanishing Places
  • Earth Day 2008: Sailing & Endangered Sites
  • Fear of Flying
  • Gay/Lesbian Travel with Ed Salvato
  • North Meets South: British Ex-Pats on the Continent; Ski, Surf, and Settle in South America
  • Off the Beaten Track Emails, Amazon Adventures, and Maori Culture
  • Open Phones and Faux Pas
  • Packing Light
  • Putting Together the Newspaper Travel Section
  • Road Trip Pilgrim
  • Romance and Authenticity
  • RV Travel
  • Sabbaticals
  • Time and Money; Looking Up Relatives in Sicily
  • To Tour or not to Tour
  • Travel Writing
  • Traveling By Bike
  • Travel Stories and Today's Republic of Turkey
  • Traveling with a Musical Theme
  • Wine Tasting 101
  • World Cup Soccer


Istanbul City Guide

Airdate: May 3, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Tan and Lale's site

Streaming Extras:

  • Istanbul: Rick, Tan and Lale talk about the language barrier between Turkish and English and some of the traditional Turkish foods worth going out of your way to experience in Istanbul, starting in the neighborhood of Eyup. (runs 2:50)

  • Ataturk Memorial: Each year on November 10, at 9:05 a.m., the busy streets of Istanbul come to a stop as the people commemorate the minute their beloved leader Ataturk died in 1938 and ships docked near the Galata Bridge sound their horns in unison in homage to the founder of the Turkish Republic. If you'll be in Istanbul for the 70th anniversary of this commemoration November 10, 2008 be sure to stand near the Galata Bridge just past 9 a.m. and this is what the city will sound like. Our audio postcard starts at 9:04am on November 10, 2007. (runs 5:04)

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Eric Weiner and The Geography of Bliss

Airdate: April 26, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Eric's website

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Earth Day 2008: Sailing & Endangered Sites

Airdate: April 19, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Olympic Circle Sailing Club, Berkeley, California
  • World Monuments Fund 2008 list of Endangered Sites

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An American Travel Guide to China

Airdate: April 12, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Moon guidebook to "Living Abroad in China"
  • "Getting Around in China" 
  • Plume's "China A to Z"

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Paris City Guide

Airdate: April 5, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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March 29, 2008

Alaska Overview & Road Tripping with the Kids
(Original Airdate May26, 2007)

 

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Road Trip Pilgrim

 

Airdate: March 22, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Dan's book
  • Dan's work distributing bicycles

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Dublin City Guide

Airdate: March 15, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • The Irish Tourist Board for bookings B&Bs in Dublin online: www.discoverireland.com/us/

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Berlin City Guide

Airdate: March 8, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

 

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The Celtic Fringes of Britain: Wales & Scotland

Airdate: March 1, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Streaming Extras:

  • Celtic Fringes: Rick and his guests talk about visiting regions in Wales and Scotland to look up ancestory and Rick learns what some of the strangely-named food at Wales' St. Fagan's Folk Museum really was. (runs 5:22)

 

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Traveling on your stomach: Everyday Italian Cuisine

Airdate: February 23, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Rene's website
  • Tommaso's website

Streaming Extras:

  • Italian extra: Rick, Renee and Tommaso chat with callers Julie in Seattle and Mike in Lexington, Kentucky about how Italian supermarkets are a great source of inexpensive souvenirs to bring home, and about dining "like the locals" in Italy, whether at a restaurant or in your hotel room. (runs 5:52)

 

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Thorny Issues: Turkey and Tibet

Airdate: February 16, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • SRM Travel
  • Lonely Planet Tibet info

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Romance and Authenticity 

Airdate: February 9, 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 get a first-hand report from Siena in central Italy about how to savor the moment, Tuscan-style.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Don George's latest adventures
  • Don's blog 
  • Information about Jennifer Cox
  • Excerpt from Jennifer's book 
  • Roberto Bechi's website for tours in Tuscany
  • Featured singer Spider Saloff's website

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Rescuing Da Vinci: How the Allies Saved The World's Masterpieces from World War Two 

Airdate: February 2, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Robert Edsel's blog
  • Monuments Men Foundation
  • Rescuing DaVinci book
  • The Rape of Europa (documentary)

Streaming Extras:

  • German Art in Russia: Robert Edsel explains how the Soviets enriched the collections at The Hermitage in St. Petersburg and the Pushkin Museum in Moscow by appropriating great works of art from Second World War Germany, and offers a perspective on why Russia feels it's right to retain these works in their collections. (runs 2:39 )

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Australia & Mardi Gras in New Orleans  

Airdate: January 26, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Lonely Planet's section on Australia 
  • Lonely Planet's section on New Orleans
  • Nicole LeBlanc's website
  • City's official Mardi Gras website
  • www.nola.com/mardigras/
  • www.satchmo.com
  • New Orleans Jazz Fest
  • New Orleans Wine and Food Event
  • French Quarter Festivals

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January 19, 2008

People's Guide to Mexico
(Original Airdate February 3, 2007)

Streaming Extras:

  • Retiring in Mexico: 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. (runs 23:05)

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January 12, 2008

Tuscany & Umbria
(Original Airdate June 3, 2006)

Streaming Extras:

  • More on London 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)

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London 2008 

Airdate: January 5, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

 

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International New Year's Traditions

Airdate: December 29, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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European Christmas Traditions

Airdate: December 22, 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."

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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International Christmas Traditions

Airdate: December 15, 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."

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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December 8, 2007

Visiting Vienna
(Original Airdate November 25, 2006)

Streaming Extras:

  • Christmas in Rome and London: 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. (runs 10:23)

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Open Phones and Faux Pas

Airdate: December 1, 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."

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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Tony Wheeler's "Lonely Planet" 

Airdate: November 24, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Lonely Planet
  • Tony's Blog

Streaming Extras:

  • Rick and Tony talk on: Here's a little bit extra from Rick and Tony's conversation didn't make it on the program. Learn more about Lonely Planet's earliest titles, and Rick and Tony's personalities as frequent travelers. (runs 3:00)

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Conscientious Travel; Oceania to Amsterdam 

Airdate: November 17, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • EthicalTraveler.org
  • Don George's website
  • David Stanley's website
  • Andy Bender's Amsterdam link at Lonely Planet

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November 10, 2007

Touring South Africa
(Original Airdate November 4, 2006)

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Travel Stories and Today's Republic of Turkey 

Airdate: November 3, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Meli's website

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Off the Beaten Track Emails, Amazon Adventures, and Maori Culture 

Airdate: October 27, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Don George's recent blog and website
  • Lonely Planet Brazil
  • Gary recommends checking the Centers for Disease Control website for malaria information prior to traveling to the Amazon
  • Lonely Planet section on New Zealand
  • Errol's Maori tribe

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Time and Money; Looking Up Relatives in Sicily  

Airdate: October 20, 2007

Listeners share secrets on traveling on a budget, and learn the price of being an over-worked American — just in time to commemorate "Take Back Your Time Day" on October 24th. 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Caller, John, recommends www.sleepinginairports.net 
  • Take Back Your Time Day

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October 13, 2007

Bernard-Henri Levy
(Original Airdate November 11, 2006)

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Southern Exposure: New Zealand & Baja California, Mexico

Airdate: October 6, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Errol Hunt
  • Danny Palmerlee

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September 29, 2007

Eastern Germany
(Original Airdate September 30, 2006)

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First Impressions of India

Airdate: September 22, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Lonely Planet India

Streaming Extras:

  • Transportation in India: In this extra feature, Rick and Sarina talk about two popular forms of transport in India — what you'll get on a camel safari in the desert, and how to book a seat on the country's massive train system. (runs 1:50)

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Madrid to Mauritius

Airdate: September 15, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Mauritius tourism website (private)
  • Mauritius tourism website (official)

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Look East: Eastern Europe to Eastern Turkey

Airdate: September 8, 2007

If you're looking to travel where the old has become new again you'll do well to look East. 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Meli's website is www.melitour.com

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Tony Wheeler's "Bad Lands"

Airdate: September 1, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Tony's two latest books: Bad Lands; Unlikely Destinations

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August 25, 2007

Meeting the Massai in East Africa
(Original Airdate June 17, 2006)

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Travel Budapest

Airdate: Aug 18, 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."

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • The film Etelka mentions about the Hungarian water polo victory against Russia in the 1956 Olympics is called "Children of Glory" in English. There is a film trailer and discussion board for the movie on You Tube.

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Travel Writing with Don George; Cambodia

Airdate: Aug 11, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Don George's latest adventures are posted at: http://donsplace.adventurecollection.com
  • Rick's 2006 blog: www.ricksteves.com
  • Read Rick's 2007 blog: www.ricksteves.com/blog/
  • Cambodia's English-language newspaper is at: www.phnompenhpost.com

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North Meets South: British Ex-Pats on the Continent; Ski, Surf, and Settle in South America

Airdate: Aug 4, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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American Desert Road Trips; Bali, Indonesia

Airdate: July 21, 2007

This week we are investigating 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Lonely Planet's USA guidebook online section starts at: www.lonelyplanet.com
  • Lonely Planet's Bali information: www.lonelyplanet.com

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Barging Through France

Airdate: July 14, 2007

Ever wish you could take a vacation where you just lay low and let the scenery come to you? This week on Travel with Rick Steves, the captain of a passenger barge based in Burgundy explains the fine art of crusing France's intimate network of canals. It's where "go with the flow" takes on a new dimension, when paired with the pleasures of the French countryside. And we'll hear listeners' stories of the simple acts of kindness they found from strangers in their travels that they'll apprreciate for the rest of their lives. Come along, on the next Travel with Rick Steves.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Bill Higgs website is www.Hotelbarge.com

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Edinburgh — Cultural Heart of Scotland

Airdate: July 7, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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Emerging Destinations & American Favorites: Route 66, New York City

Airdate: June 30, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Lonely Planet Publications
  • Lonely Planet Guide to Road Trip: Route 66
  • Lonely Planet Guide to New York City
  • Don George's website
  • Sara's website
  • Jay Cooke's website

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June 23, 2007

Small Wonders: Belgium and Belize
(Original Airdate July 8, 2006)

Streaming Extras:

  • Rosemary Jones: Rosemary Jones is a native-born Bermudian and author of the recently-released first edition of the Moon Handbook to Bermuda. She chats with Rick and answers listener emails in a quick overview of essentials for visiting the island of Bermuda. (Windows Media 8:18)

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A Midsummer's Guide to Sweden

Airdate: June 16, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Marita recommends www.stockholmtown.com for accommodations referrals

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Shaking off the Soviets in Eastern Europe and the 'Stans of Central Asia

Airdate: June 9, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Streaming Extras:

  • Declining Birthrate: Rick and his guests discuss reasons for the dramatic drop in birthrate in Eastern European countries since the fall of Communist rule in 1989. (Windows Media 1:41)

Additional Links:

  • Michael Kohn's website

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European Business Customs

Airdate: June 2, 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).

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Mary Murray Bosrock's website
  • Poem author Chris Christensen's website is: www.AmateurTraveler.com

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Alaska Overview & Road Tripping with the Kids

Airdate: May 26, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Streaming Extras:

  • The Real Alaska: Rick and Aaron have a final word about taking a cruise ship to find "the real Alaska." (Windows Media 2:12)

Additional Links:

  • Lonely Planet Alaska
  • Lonely Planet's discussion board on US Road Tripping with Kids
  • The Rick Steves' Graffiti Wall discussion board on overseas travel with kids
  • Info on the ACM Children's Museum pass, recommended in segment C by Leah in Elsah, Illinois: www.childrensmuseums.org/index.htm

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Rolf Potts: "Vagabonding"

Airdate: May 19, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Rolf's websites are www.vagabonding.net and www.rolfpotts.com

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Italy: North vs. South

Airdate: May 12, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Streaming Extras:

  • Cannolli: Ceclia and Tommaso debate the authenticity of ricotta cheese and cannolli made outside of Sicily (Windows Media 2:44)
  • Immersione Italiana: Eavesdrop on Ceclia and Tommaso chatting with each other in Italian while Rick takes a break (Windows Media 1:22)

Additional Links:

  • Cecelia Bottai's website: www.levelette.it 
  • Tommaso Pante's website www.sunway.it/english/index.htm

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Prague

Airdate: May 5, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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Dutch Tolerance and The Overworked American

Airdate: April 28, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • John Degraff's website: www.timeday.org

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Earth Day 2007: Home Exchange; Hot Planet; Vanishing Places

Airdate: April 21, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Nicole's blog about home exchanges: www.homeexchanger.blogspot.com
  • Marty Essen's website: www.coolcreatureshotplanet.com
  • World Monuments Fund website: www.wmf.org
  • Michael Shapiro's website: www.michaelshapiro.net

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April 14 , 2007

French Culture 201 for American Travelers
(Original Airdate July 15, 2006)

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Sicily: The Island of Organized Chaos

Airdate: April 7, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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Pilgrimage on El Camino de Santiago in Spain, Tourism in Iran

Airdate: March 31, 2007

We learn about El 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Jeremy Dack's website

  • Santiago de Compostela website

  • Lonely Planet Iran info

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Spiritual Discoveries in your Travels: Hinduism 101 and Rumi 800

Airdate: March 24, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Lonely Planet India
  • Meli's website

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Celtic Colors: From Ulster to France

Airdate: March 17, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Stephen McPhilemy's Gaelic lesson (Windows Media)

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Cuba: What's Next?

Airdate: March 10, 2007

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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Christopher P. Baker's Website

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Afghanistan for Travelers & Adventure Cycling to Laos

Airdate: March 4, 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 through Northern Thailand into Laos.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Paul Clammer's Website
  • Willie Weir's Website

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February 24 , 2007

Naples and the Amalfi Coast
(Original Airdate July 22, 2006)

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Canadian Arctic and Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Airdate: February 17, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Lonely Planet guide to Canada
  • New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau

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Marrying into Spain & Greece at a Glance

Airdate: February 10, 2007

When travel leads to romance, the result may be a whole new life. 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 enjoys Greece so much, he spends much of the year showing off its wonderous sites. He'll advise us on how to go beyond Athens to find the real Greece. And we'll hear from listeners who stared down scam artists face to face in their European travels.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Jennifer and Carlos Galvin's website is at www.letango.com

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People's Guide to Mexico

Airdate: February 3, 2007

During the 1970s, Carl Franz and Lorena Havens made a habit of driving from Washington state to Mexico in their VW van. More than thirty years later, they still spend the better part of each year exploring the back roads and magnetic appeal of Mexico. Their classic guide book, "The People's Guide to Mexico," reads like an adventure manifesto. Carl and Lorena join Rick to help explain the appealing differences about Mexican culture for norte americanos on this week's Travel with Rick Steves.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Carl and Lorena's website is: www.peoplesguide.com

Streaming Extras:

  • Retiring in Mexico: 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. (runs 23:05)

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January 27, 2007

An Insider's Guide to the French Riviera
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Travel Calls with Don George & This Year in New Orleans

Airdate: January 20, 2007

This week Rick chats with Don George from Lonely Planet publications. They take calls about how Americans are being received overseas and investigate how interacting with locals in our travels sometimes means depending on the kindness of strangers. Then, we'll find out if New Orleans still has its 'soul' since being battered by Hurricane Katrina. We'll also learn from guidebook author Jay Cooke how "volun-tourism" may be one way to boost the spirit of New Orleans, while you can still have a good time at this year's Mardi Gras and Jazzfest.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau
  • Lonely Planet's Rebuilding New Orleans webpageback to top

 


Hawaii for "malihinis" and a Cancun Update

Airdate: January 13, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Lonely Planet Hawaii guidebooks
  • Moon Handbook to Cancun and Cozumel

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Eastern Europe — Then and Now

Airdate: January 6, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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Sri Lanka

Airdate: December 16, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Lonely Planet Sri Lanka: www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/asia/sri-lanka

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Encountering Sheep in your Travels

Airdate: December 9, 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. And, Rick learns a few new tricks about how to whistle sheep herding dog commands.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Aled's website: www.ewe-phoria.co.uk/index.html
  • Sheepdog commands: www.sheepdogwhistle.com

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Adventures in the Southern Hemisphere: Peru and Fiji

Airdate: December 2, 2006

Adventure travel specialist Kurt Kutay fills us in on Peru's attractions, from trekking to Machu Picchu in the Andes, to interacting with indigenous cultures and spotting wildlife in the Amazon. And, Rick learns from travel writer David Stanley how travelers can find a warm welcome in Fiji, and how the island compares to its neighbors in the South Pacific.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Kurt's company website is www.wildland.com
  • David Stanley's website is www.southpacific.org

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Visiting Vienna

Airdate: November 25, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Vienna City Hall website is: www.virtourist.com/europe/vienna/20.htm

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European Comfort Food

Airdate: November 18, 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 and steak tartare, and get a recipe on how to mix up your own batch of sangria. And we hear from listeners about some of their memorable food encounters overseas.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Arnaud's website
  • Roberto's website
  • Carlos Galvin's Sangria Recipe:
    Marinate sliced fruit, such as peaches, oranges, apples, and whatever fruit you like in red table wine for about 24 hours
    Filter out the marinated fruit
    Create a mix that's 1/3 of the fruit-marinated wine with 1/3 of Sprite (or "Casera," a similar sparkling sweet soda from Spain) and 1/3 lemon Sprite or lemonade (sparkling is good)
    Add a little cinnamon, and a little sugar to taste
    Serve iced

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Bernard-Henri Levy: Part Deux

Airdate: November 11, 2006

Could Americans and Europeans benefit from an honest conversation with each other about different ways of viewing society and the world? Rick invites Bernard-Henri Levy, best-selling French author and philosopher, into the studio to discuss some of the French stereotypes that fuel American prejudices. 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • American Vertigo

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Touring South Africa

Airdate: November 4, 2006

In recent years, South Africa has emerged from its apartheid-induced embargo to become one of the continent's most popular destinations. While the country offers plenty to visitors, including a mix of vibrant cultures and spectacular natural beauty, it's the kind of place Back Door travelers will experience more confidently if they've done their homework first.

Rick learns about the emerging tourism industry in South Africa from Capetown native Carmin Arnot, who plans adventure travel for North American visitors.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Wildland Adventures: www.wildland.com
  • South African wine regions: www.southafrica.info
  • Bradt wildlife guides: www.bradtguides.com

Streaming Extras:

  • Romantic Getaways: Rick and fellow travel writer Don George talk about romantic honeymoon getaway options around the world, and whether or not Paris is worth visiting in the winter. (runs 6:22)

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Nicaragua

Airdate: October 28, 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 authored two guidebooks to Nicaragua. He'll take listener calls and provide an overview of how the country is doing today.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Randy's websites are: www.therandymon.com and www.gotonicaragua.com

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Architecture in your European Travels

Airdate: October 14, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Kathmandu 'Living Goddess': www.visitnepal.com/nepal_information/kumari.php

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Sicily & Germany's Black Forest

Airdate: October 7, 2006

For some Americans, the frenzied yet laid-back style of Italy's big southern island can be a bit overwhelming. Alfio di Mauro 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, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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Eastern Germany

Airdate: September 30, 2006

Christoph Dressler was raised a few miles east of the Berlin wall. Now, he earns a living taking tourists around his re-unified country. 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • ELCA article Rick mentions: www.ricksteves.com/about/pressroom/activism/elca_menu.htm

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Armenia

Airdate: September 16, 2006

It's one of the newest nations in the world, and one of its oldest civilizations. This week, while Armenia is celebrating 15 years as an independent republic, we'll find out why it's a classic "back door" destination.

Rick's guest is Matthew Karanian, 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. 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Matthew's website is: www.armenianphotography.com

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Spain

Airdate: September 9, 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, a travel specialist from Madrid, joins Rick 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 of the Spanish Tourism Board joins Rick to explain the role of "the siesta."

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Carlos's website: www.letango.com
  • Spanish Tourism Board

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Sabbaticals

Airdate: August 26, 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 with a "sabbatical." On the next Travel with Rick Steves, we examine the practicalities and benefits of taking a sabbatical.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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Hungary

Airdate: August 19, 2006

Whether you're ready 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.

Join Rick as he and a tour guide friend and teacher from Hungary take listener calls and tell us what her country is like in today's post-Soviet era.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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Ken Hanley's Scotland

Airdate: August 12, 2006

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, we'll get more of your stories about the best, and worst, food you've encountered in your travels and award another round of listener travel haiku.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Ken's website: www.small-world-tours.co.uk/

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RV Travel & Adventure Bicycling in Laos & North Thailand

Airdate: August 5, 2006

R-V camping has become a popular way to take the great American roadtrip — even if the roads are overseas. Rick learns about the R-V subculture from Chuck Woodbury, who runs an online site for R-V travel. Also, adventure bicyclist Willie Weir tells us about his most recent bike trip thrrough Northern Thailand and Laos.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Chuck Woodbury's website: www.RVtravel.com
  • Adelle and Ron Milavsky's website: www.RV2Europe.com

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Naples and the Amalfi Coast

Airdate: July 22, 2006

Naples is one of the most intense and chaotic urban scenes in all of Europe. American-born tour guide Nina Bernardo, who now lives there, joins us to help clear the misconceptions about Napoli and to discuss Sorrento and Capri. Also, ways to fend off the scam artists at the Naples train station.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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French Culture 201 — for the American Traveler

Airdate: July 15, 2006

Tensions between Americans and the French are often rooted in perfectly avoidable cultural misunderstandings. We'll take a deeper look at the cultural faux pas some travelers have experienced in that proud and complicated country, with insights from a couple of native-born French tour guides. We'll also hear about listeners' best — and worst — food experiences while traveling.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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Small Wonders: Belgium & Belize

Airdate: July 8, 2006

Good things often come in small packages. Belgium is a tiny country with a remarkably easy-going flair, and great food. Native son and tour guide Ferdi Menghi joins Rick to take listener calls about Belgium. Then, Kurt Kutay introduces us to an indigenous tour guide in Belize, for an overview of this popular destination for adventure travelers.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Articles on Belgium
  • Kurt's website: www.wildland.com
  • Mr. John, "It's Great to be a Belgian" website: www.misterjohn.be

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Las Vegas & Yosemite

Airdate: July 1, 2006

For travelers to Las Vegas, high stakes entertainment has replaced the ultra-cheap deals for which the Strip was once famous. Rick Garman has a new guidebook to the city, and tells us how to enjoy today's Vegas without losing your shirt. Then we'll cool off in the mountains with Ann Marie Brown's insider tips on California's Yosemite National Park.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Rick Garman's website: www.vegas4visitors.com
  • Ann Marie Brown's website: www.annmariebrown.com
  • Yosemite website: www.nps.gov/yose

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Slovenia & Croatia

Airdate: June 24, 2006

This week, we're celebrating 15 years of independence in Slovenia and Croatia with two of Rick's Slovenian tour guide friends. They will fill us in on why their small country, a pastoral land with storybook castles and turbo-folk musichas has become the destination for a no-pressure, bargain European escape.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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Meeting the Maasai in East Africa

Airdate: June 17, 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 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Kurt's company: www.wildland.com
  • Metamei's organization: www.maasaierc.org

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From Turkey to the Persian Gulf

Airdate: June 10, 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 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Lale's website is: www.srmtravel.com/
  • David's bio: www.southpacific.org/author.html
  • Rick's Turkey Info

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Tuscany & Umbria

Airdate: June 3, 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, a winemaker from Orvieto, about how visitors can experience authentic local culture in central Italy's hilltowns and estates. Grab a glass of Orvieto Classico and a seat on the piazza as we talk about Tuscany and Umbria.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Cecelia Bottai's website: www.levelette.it
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Arthur Frommer

Airdate: May 27, 2006

It's been almost 50 years since Arthur Frommer 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 as they reminisce and chat about how much international travel has changed over the past half-century.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Arthur Frommer's website: www.frommers.com

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Tour Industry Insider

Airdate: May 20, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • United States Tour Operators Association

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Royalty

Airdate: April 29, 2006

Rick removes some of the mystery, but not the glamour, of European Royalty with help from guests Roy Nichols and Norway's Princess Märtha 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 Märtha 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

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Ethical Travels on a Green Planet

Airdate: April 22, 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 Ethical Traveler, and ponder the future of some noteworthy "Vanishing Places" on our planet with travel writer Michael Shapiro.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Ethical Traveler

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Traveling with a Musical Theme

Airdate: April 15, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)
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An Insider's Guide to Paris

Airdate: April 8, 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 Servignat'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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • Arnaud's personal website: www.arnaud-servignat.com
  • Articles about Paris

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English Gardens

Airdate: March 25, 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.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • US sister organization to the British National Trust: www.royal-oak.org
  • The National Trust
  • The British Heritage Pass
  • Eden Project in Cornwall

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Bernard-Henri Levy, author of American Vertigo: Traveling America in the Footsteps of Tocqueville

Airdate: March 18, 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 across America, to such places as Savannah, Cooperstown New York, and Mount Rushmore. He met with average Americans of all types, and wrote a book about the country's cultural identity, patriotism, and the creed that holds the U-S together as a nation. His assertions may surprise you.

  • Listen to the entire show (Windows Media)

Additional Links:

  • American Vertigo: Traveling America in the Footsteps of Tocqueville

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Ireland, 2006

Airdate: March 11, 2006

Daydreaming about a trip to Ireland sometimes evokes images of deep green, rocky hills and the smell of a peat logs burni