Rick Steves Notable Travelers Podcast
1) Sarah Vowell's "Lafayette in the Somewhat United States"
Author and radio commentator Sarah Vowell explains how Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette helped unify Americans after the contentious presidential election of 1824.
2) Nadeau and Barlow's "The Bonjour Effect"
Montreal-based authors Jean-Benoît Nadeau and Julie Barlow discuss the unwritten rules of conversation in France, and the communication hurdles visitors face — even those who speak perfect French. The...Show More
3) Marjorie Williams' "Markets of Provence"
Author Marjorie R. Williams shares tips for finding exceptional seasonal produce — and great souvenirs — in the south of France. She’s collected her recommendations and personal favorites in her guide...Show More
4) Andy Steves' "Europe: City-Hopping on a Budget"
Rick's son Andy Steves shares tips from his guidebook “Andy Steves’ Europe: City Hopping on a Budget.” The advice in Andy’s book comes from his experience helping American college students make the mo...Show More
5) James Sherwood's "Discriminating Guide to London"
Fashion critic James Sherwood introduces Rick to some of London's most elegant and characteristic restaurants, hotels, specialty shops, and other stylish scenes. His witty guidebook is titled “James S...Show More
6) Diana Nyad: Never Give Up
Endurance swimmer Diana Nyad tells Rick how she set a world record in long-distance, open water swimming on her 2013 swim from Havana to Key West. Her book is titled “Find a Way.”
7) Laurence Bergreen's Casanova
Historian Laurence Bergreen reveals what the adventurer Casanova’s uncommon life can tell us about 18th-century Venice – gritty details and all. Bergreen’s new book is titled “Casanova: The World of a...Show More
8) Salvatore Settis’ “If Venice Dies”
Archaeologist and author Dr. Salvatore Settis discusses Venice's population decline, which continues even as crowds of tourists and cruise-ship passengers overwhelm Italy's most beloved city. His book...Show More
9) Leif Pettersen's "Backpacking with Dracula"
Travel writer Leif Pettersen tells Rick about the ruthless 15th-century prince behind the legend of Dracula. The infamous character of Dracula is a major source of tourism to Romania today. Pettersen’...Show More
10) Slow Train to Switzerland
Author Diccon Bewes explains how tourism as we know it was invented by middle-class, Victorian-era English travelers seeking a pleasure trip in the Swiss Alps. His new book is titled "Slow Train to Sw...Show More