Program 452: Slow Train to Switzerland; Artist Safari; Joys of Travel

Learn how tourism as we know it was invented by middle-class, Victorian-era English travelers seeking a pleasure trip in the Swiss Alps. Then listen in as a painter describes how peering into the eyes of savanna wildlife on an "artist's safari" deepened his appreciation for Africa's creatures. And join us as we examine the emotional benefits of travel, which start even before you've left home — and last well after you return.

• Diccon Bewes, author of "Swiss Watching" and "Slow Train to Switzerland" (Nicholas Brealey Publishing)
• Wildlife artist Fred Krakowiak, author of "The Artist's Safari: Capturing Africa with Pen, Lens, and Paintbrush" (self-published)
• Travel writer Thomas Swick, author of "The Joys of Travel" (Skyhorse Publishing)

• Diccon Bewes moved to Switzerland from his English homeland, and ran an English-language bookstore in Berne. He's the author of "Slow Train to Switzerland."  His other Swiss-themed titles include "Swiss Watching: Inside the Land of Milk and Honey" (a 2010 Financial Times "book of the year"), and his latest title is "Around Switzerland in 80 Maps," which has been published in English, German and French. 
• Diccon was featured in 2010 on a BBC Radio 4 "Excess Baggage" interview about Switzerland.
• Diccon is also a member of the Swiss Info public council website. 
• Information for visiting Mt. Rigi, home of the oldest mountain steam railroads in Europe.
• Fred Krakowiak's website features photos of his artwork, and links to his latest book, "The Artist's Safari:  Capturing Africa with Pen, Lens, and Paintbrush," and his earlier book, "Africa: An Artist’s Safari."
• Thomas Swick's website includes links to articles he's written, and upcoming speaking engagements.
• The Joys of Travel by Thomas Swick is published by Skyhorse Publishing. A short interview with Tom was included in the New York Times travel section in May 2016.