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50 Best Travel Shows Of All Time (& How To Watch Them)

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Most of us can't reasonably travel all of the time. Thankfully, we can live vicariously through our screens when we cannot be globetrotting ourselves. Travel shows are a dime a dozen, mainly because many of us would rather explore than deal with our responsibilities. But how do you know which shows are worth your time? That depends mainly on your tastes and interests, but we can provide some solid starting points.

From celebrities heading their own adventurous docuseries to food-loving vagabonds visiting remote destinations, travel shows can show us scenes and cultures we would otherwise have no concept of. In fact, television often inspires travel, and watching world wanderers eat their way through exotic destinations is a great way to help plan your next trip. These 50 series are some of the best TV has to offer, and even if you don't make it through all of them, you may find a gem that piques your particular interest.

50. Nomad with Carlton McCoy

Classically trained chef and expert sommelier Carlton McCoy seeks out the best in international cuisine, music, and art in the CNN series "Nomad with Carlton McCoy." Premiering in May 2022, McCoy travels everywhere in the travel series, from the overlooked pleasures of Mississippi to the corners of Ghana. For McCoy, the show's focus lies in adventures and delights found away from the well-worn paths frequented by tourists. Instead, he enjoys savoring hometown favorites from local populations. What McCoy may lack in experience and poise, he and "Nomad" make up for with its premise to go behind the scenes of some of the world's most recognizable locales. 

The first "Nomad with Carlton McCoy" season is available to stream on  Prime Video with Discovery+.

49. Down to Earth with Zac Efron

The world is a beautiful place, and it's easy to showcase such on film. This is why a travel show has to be about more than just pretty scenery, and "Down to Earth with Zac Efron" delivers in a big way. The series puts a highly informative spin on the genre by taking viewers on whirlwind journeys worldwide in search of health secrets. We're not talking about avocado toast or juice cleanses, either.

Efron and wellness expert Darin Olien visit destinations to learn about topics like renewable energy, superfoods, and water quality. Have you ever heard of a water sommelier? The experts know a thing or two about what kind of water makes our bodies happy, and a "Down to Earth" episode in France consults one of the few professionals in existence. The series also has episodes on a seed bank stocked for the end of the world, Iceland's Blue Lagoon, and the Amazon rainforest.

Although "Down to Earth" earned Zac Efron a Daytime Emmy, lack of viewership caused the series to be canceled quickly. It had one season at Netflix and was picked up for another at The CW, only to be on the chopping block two episodes later. Lack of quantity does not mean lack of quality, though, and the "High School Musical" star's travel show is a solid viewing.

You can watch "Down to Earth with Zach Efron" on Netflix and The CW .

48. The World's Most Amazing Vacation Rentals

Sometimes, a typical hotel on vacation doesn't cut it, with intrepid travelers opting for more unique and luxurious digs during their stay abroad. The Netflix original series "The World's Most Amazing Vacation Rentals" explores everything from treehouses to alpaca farms to rent worldwide. Hosted by Megan Batoon, Jo Franco, and Luis D. Ortiz, the show reminds viewers that far more than cheap motels and chain hotels are available to make a vacation even more authentic and unique. While some of the rentals visited on the show run on the pricier side, these are balanced out with more cost-effective rentals for travelers not looking to shell out top dollar on accommodations.

"The World's Most Amazing Vacation Rentals" is available to stream on  Netflix .

47. Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy

Academy Award-nominated actor Stanley Tucci reconnects with his ancestral roots in the CNN travel series "Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy." Premiering in 2021, the show has Tucci visit different regions in Italy to learn more about the local cuisine, culture, and history in a sun-soaked tour of the Mediterranean country. Though the major tourist centers of Italy are among the destinations in Tucci's tour, the host takes the time to explore restaurants and locations off the beaten track to reveal a more authentic Italian experience. Buoyed by Tucci's understated yet quietly charismatic presence, "Searching for Italy" has been nominated for multiple Emmy Awards, winning two for its achievement in nonfiction television. 

Available to purchase and rent through most digital retailers, "Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy" is also available to stream on Discovery+ .

46. Mysterious Islands

Accomplished pilot and explorer Kellee Edwards invites viewers to join her on his globe-trotting adventures with the Travel Channel series "Mysterious Islands." Edwards particularly takes an interest in some of the most remote islands on Earth, visiting them with her private seaplane to examine them from above and by foot. A refreshing contrast to the hustle-and-bustle of travel shows revolving around heavily populated locales, "Mysterious Islands" offers a more serene, nature-focused look at isolated getaways. Before hosting "Mysterious Islands," Edwards hosted and published a travel vlog through her website that catapulted her into the public eye.

"Mysterious Islands" is currently available to stream on  fuboTV and Philo .

45. Ride with Norman Reedus

"Cool" is the only way to describe "Ride with Norman Reedus." Cruising on a slew of bikes, "The Boondock Saints" and "The Walking Dead" actor meets up with a different travel partner in each episode to explore the open road of America and international destinations. With six seasons as of 2023, the series has become a lasting one on AMC.

Norman Reedus isn't the first to make a travel show centered on biker culture, so what makes it so unique? His vibe, for one. However, it's also the particular variety that his program offers viewers. Reedus does not stick to just one style or motorcycle manufacturer; he also has many celebrity guests. He has the bikers' seal of approval.

From Dave Chapelle to Keanu Reeves, you'll be surprised that some of your favorite celebrities ride and are just as captivating in an environment you don't usually see them in. Fans of Reedus' work will also be happy to see quite a few familiar faces as his "The Walking Dead" co-stars, including Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Steven Yeun, join in on the fun.

You can watch "Ride with Norman Reedus" on AMC+ .

44. Epic Drives

Car expert Arthur St. Antoine entered the pole position with the automobile travel series "Epic Drives," premiering in 2010. Backed with a whole fleet of cars, often with some of the world's coolest and fastest sports and luxury automobiles, St. Antoine opens the engine up and cuts loose on roads around the globe. From traversing the Pacific Coast Highway to showcasing winter driving tips on the frozen roads of Scandinavia, St. Antoine guides viewers through truly stunning international roadways. Though "Epic Rides" puts its slick automobiles in the forefront, the travel series is also keenly aware of how to capture the natural beauty of the gorgeous destinations visited. 

"Epic Drives" is available to stream on Roku and Prime Video  with a MotorTrend extension.

43. Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern

Prolific chef, author, and television personality Andrew Zimmern delves into the off-kilter local cuisine from around the world that outsiders may view as strange in the Travel Channel series "Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern." Running steadily since 2006, "Bizarre Foods" has become a large television franchise in and of itself, spawning spinoff series and specials, while the main series has undergone several rebrands. Later, carrying the subtitle "Delicious Destinations," Zimmern's unique perspective on local cuisine proved as engaging as ever. Traveling anywhere from remote settlements in the untamed wilderness to local gastronomy usually avoided by tourists, Zimmern doesn't just focus on the cuisine and preparation itself but where the key ingredients come from. 

A Travel Channel staple for over a decade, "Bizarre Foods With Andrew Zimmern" is currently available to stream on Max and Discovery+ .

42. Samantha Brown's Places to Love

Prolific travel television personality Samantha Brown created the acclaimed PBS series "Samantha Brown's Places to Love," which premiered in 2018. Markedly different from her previous programming on the Travel Channel, Brown's PBS show offers ways for prospective travelers to blend in more naturally with places they visit rather than disrupt local scenes. Featuring a more subdued approach, Brown presents a more authentic, understated cultural experience in the destinations she showcases. "Places to Love" was widely praised for its approach to travel programming and won two Daytime Emmy Awards for its outstanding achievement.

"Samantha Brown's Places to Love" is available to watch through local PBS outlets.

41. A Cook's Tour

Chef and author Anthony Bourdain's first foray into travel television was on the Food Network series "A Cook's Tour," which was filmed while Bourdain was simultaneously writing a book about his experiences. Running for two seasons from 2002-2003, the show took Bourdain around the globe to sample local cuisine and culture, with Asia being a prominent recurring destination. In Variety's review of the first season, "A Cook's Tour" was praised for focusing on destinations less well-documented by other travel shows while providing a man-on-the-street perspective. The series offers a fascinating look at Bourdain discovering his voice as a television host while still possessing his acerbic wit.

"A Cook's Tour" is currently available to stream in full on Prime Video and Tubi .

40. America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston

Notable writer and commentator Baratunde Thurston expanded from his usual political fare to launch the PBS travel series "America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston." Thurston travels around the United States, from Death Valley to the Appalachian Mountains, to document America's distinct and immersive outdoor destinations. More than simply hiking and camping, Thurston engages in local activities, including trying his hand at collecting wild rice and surfing, to better appreciate local cultures. Thurston takes the premise behind "America Outdoors" more liberally than most travel shows with similar scopes, with an entire episode reframing outdoor culture in Los Angeles. 

An engaging look at the United States' relationship with its outdoor spaces, "America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston" is available to stream on Prime Video with PBS Living or PBS Documentaries and PBS with WOSU Passport.

39. Travel Man

Popular British actor and comedian Richard Ayoade launched the breakneck travel series "Travel Man," blending comedy with hectic itineraries. Paired with a celebrity guest, Ayoade and his travel companion have 48 hours to take in the sights and cuisine in different international cities. Starting with the show's tenth season, Ayoade was replaced by British comedian Joe Lycett, but the overall formula remains largely the same. Buoyed by Ayoade and Lycett's hilarious personalities and its limited-time premise, "Travel Man" is as freewheeling and fun as travelogs get.

"Travel Man: 48 Hours in..." is available to stream on Prime Video and  Peacock .

38. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Beloved chef and restauranteur David Chang covers all the most important meals of the day around the world in the original series "Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner." Joined by different celebrity guest stars in each episode, including Seth Rogen and Kate McKinnon, Chang learns what constitutes traditional daily meals in major cities from Marrakech to Phnom Penh. Elevated by thoughtful and entertaining discussions between Chang and his guests, the series offers a broader perspective on the meals we take for granted each day. As with Chang's other travel and cooking shows, the international cuisine-driven travel series focuses on authenticity and a society's connection to its defining food. 

"Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner" is available to stream on  Netflix  and  Prime Video with Fuse+.

37. No Passport Required

With a country as richly vast and varied as the United States, there are plenty of interesting travel spots without ever having to go abroad. This underlying truth provides the basic premise to the PBS travel series "No Passport Required," which is focused on exploring the legacy of immigrant traditions and cuisines within the country. Hosted by noted chef Marcus Samuelsson, six major American cities are showcased as Samuelsson examines the immigrant legacy and food that lovingly define each locale. Going beyond the typical fare that colors each city's perception, Samuelsson meets with everyone from the Armenian community in Los Angeles to the Chinese legacy behind Las Vegas, showcasing some of the cultures that help to make each city great.

"No Passport Required" is currently available to stream on Roku ,  Prime Video with PBS Living or PBS Documentaries, and PBS.

36. Big City, Little Budget

The prospect of living in or visiting major American cities isn't cheap, but host Oneika Raymond guides audiences through more cost-effective approaches to modern metropolises in "Big City, Little Budget." Produced by the Travel Channel, the web series has Raymond visiting cities from sea to shining sea while also providing tips on how to navigate each place without having a robust budget at one's disposal. From frugal dining tips to which neighborhoods won't break the bank, "Big City, Little Budget" offers invaluable advice. With its bite-sized episodes, Raymond offers clear and concise guidance through cities from Miami to New York as she leans into approaching each destination on a budget without compromising the fun.

"Big City, Little Budget" is available to stream through the Travel Channel's YouTube channel .

35. I'll Have What Phil's Having

After helming the long-running sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond," prolific television writer and producer Phil Rosenthal turned to travelog hosting, starting with the 2015 series "I'll Have What Phil Is Having." Running on PBS for six episodes, the show follows Rosenthal as he travels around the world to check out the local food scenes. Joined by celebrity guests like Martin Short and Ray Romano, Rosenthal's comedic perspective helps give the usual travel show proceedings a more engaging approach. Though short-lived, "I'll Have What Phil Is Having" provides an early look at the type of travel programming Rosenthal would host to greater success on Netflix.

"I'll Have What Phil's Having" is currently available to stream on Roku , Prime Video with PBS Living or PBS Documentaries, Pluto TV , and PBS.

34. Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost

Even the same iconic locales can offer vastly different experiences depending on the visitor's financial situation, and this dichotomy is explored in the travel series "Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost." Hosted by siblings Alex and Marko Ayling, the two showcase how to navigate major travel destinations on a budget or take advantage of the visit when flush with cash. Whether they're discussing different approaches to visiting Hong Kong or trying the varying cuisines of France, the Ayling brothers provide plenty of information and varying perspectives on the same destinations. One of the things that work in favor of "Basic Versus Baller" is that the show's premise isn't necessarily binary, as tourists can mix the frugal and luxurious options provided as they see fit. 

A dual-perspective on the travelog formula, "Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost" is currently available to stream on Hulu , Prime Video with Tastemade, and Peacock .

33. Ugly Delicious

Chef and author David Chang looks at the cultural history and deeper meaning behind popular cuisine in the Netflix original series "Ugly Delicious." Premiering in 2018, Chang and a group of celebrity guests explore the origins of different foods through extensive interviews and traveling to informative points from the cuisine's origins. A thoughtful discussion about food and its inextricable links to societal identity, "Ugly Delicious" blends serious insight with Chang's quick wit to great effect. Widely acclaimed for its approach to asking the hard questions about cuisine's impact on culture and cultural perception, the series was nominated for an Emmy Award.

"Ugly Delicious" is currently available to stream on Netflix .

32. United Shades of America

The United States is, like any nation, an incredibly complicated and occasionally contentious place to live, from sea to shining sea, across a variety of communities. Comedian W. Kamau Bell spotlights these communities, their traditions, and their struggles in the CNN documentary series "United Shades of America." From speaking with indigenous communities in South Dakota to the extensive Black populations in the Appalachians, Bell provides an all-encompassing tour of the modern American experience. Bell's thoughtful approach to admittedly somber subject matter paints a more complete look at the country and the many voices that bring it to life as he travels nationwide.

The winner of multiple Emmy Awards for its sweeping work, "United Shades of America" is available to stream on Discovery+  and  Max  and purchase and rent via online retailers.

31. Booze Traveler

A lot can be learned about a culture through its gastronomy, and host Jack Maxwell is determined to get to the bottom of this search for identity – and the bottom of many bottles – in the Travel Channel show "Booze Traveler." Exploring domestic and international destinations, Maxwell reveals how drinking culture informs daily life in places like Seoul and Dublin while partaking in local spirits himself. With Maxwell's easygoing personality at the forefront, "Booze Traveler" looks at how communities bond over their love of drink. As a former South Boston bartender, Maxwell lends an everyday perspective to his global travels. He is more interested in looking for a good time than asking the hard questions as the show breezily chugs along.

A fittingly rambunctious travelog, "Booze Traveler" is available to stream on Discovery+ and rent and purchase through most digital retailers.

30. Street Food

While acclaimed filmmaker and documentarian David Gelb focuses primarily on haute cuisine with his award-winning "Chef's Table" series, his other Netflix original show, "Street Food," takes a different perspective. Rather than spotlight a single cook per episode like his previous work, Gelb examines an entire city's street food scene, exploring the origins of the cuisine that defines it. From the robust marks of Singapore to hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans, "Street Food" and its rotating set of hosts provide an authentic culinary portrait of the show's destinations. Gelb's everyman approach and broader scope per episode, in contrast to "Chef's Table," is an effective change that "Street Food" takes full advantage of.

The first season of "Street Food" is set in Asia, the second in Latin America, and the third in the United States, with the series currently available to stream on Netflix .

29. The Kindness Diaries

Connecting with your fellow humans and experiencing people of different backgrounds and cultures is one of the enormous benefits of traveling; for some, it's their entire purpose. In a way, "The Kindness Diaries" encapsulates the spirit of travel, as host Leon Logothetis traverses the globe depending on the kindness of strangers.

Equipped only with a bright yellow motorbike swapped for an equally yellow vintage convertible in the second season, Leon Logothetis searches for kind-hearted people to supply his needs on his travels. This includes food, accommodations, and gasoline. You'll be pleasantly surprised how far one can get in the world just by simply asking — though, he does sleep in his motorbike's sidecar when necessary. While the destinations range from all over the United States to Europe, Cambodia, and Vietnam, this feel-good travel doc is more about the people we meet along the way. Even though "The Kindness Diaries" only has two seasons behind it, the beautiful souls depicted stay with viewers for the long haul.

You can stream "The Kindness Diaries" on Discovery+ .

28. Gordon's Great Escape

Famous chef and television personality Gordon Ramsay decided to visit the originating countries of some of his favorite cuisines in the British television series "Gordon's Great Escape." In an interview with The Guardian , Ramsay shared his lifelong love of Indian food and chronicled his first trip to India in the show. Beyond his visit to India, Ramsay filmed the second set of interviews exploring other parts of Southeast Asia and its cuisine, including Thailand and Vietnam. Offering Ramsay a chance to escape the limelight he was experiencing in America and the United Kingdom, the show reveals him rediscovering his love of cooking while learning about overseas culinary traditions.

"Gordon's Great Escape" is available to stream through Prime Video , Tubi , Roku , and Fox.

27. Long Way Down

Actors and longtime motorcycle aficionados Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman reunited for another international motorcycle voyage with the British travel series "Long Way Down." A follow-up to their 2004 series "Long Way Round," the 2007 offering has the two bikers travel from Scotland all the way to Cape Town, South Africa. Along the way, the pair rides through 18 countries by motorcycle as they traverse Europe and the length of Africa. Even for those not particularly enamored by motorcycles, "Long Way Down" is a fascinating look at life on the open road across two continents anchored by two charismatic leads.

"Long Way Down" is currently available to stream on Apple TV+ .

26. Globe Trekker

One of the longest-running travel shows from the United Kingdom is "Globe Trekker," originally broadcast from 1994 to 2016. With a rotating set of hosts for each episode, the British series highlights a different region and provides audiences with a thorough guide to the sights and culture. More than simply presenting the major tourist attractions, the hosts examine local traditions, including interviews with local industries beyond tourism and hospitality. With such an impressive breadth of episodes, "Globe Trekker" set an enduring standard for travel programming in the United Kingdom against which all other travel shows are to be judged. 

Unfortunately, "Globe Trekker" is unavailable to stream or purchase in the United States.

25. Man v. Food

Eating challenges can say a lot about a culture, from the type of cuisine competitors consume to the quantity eaten to succeed. Actor and television personality Adam Richman took it upon himself to travel all over the United States to face all manner of eating challenges in the Travel Channel series "Man v. Food." Heading to a different destination each episode, Richman singlehandedly subjects himself to various regional eating challenges, from consuming massive steaks to an entire platter of chili dogs in a limited time. "Man v. Food" gave the Travel Channel its highest-rated debut upon its premiere in 2008 (per the Los Angeles Times ), with the show revived in 2017 and Richman replaced by current host Casey Webb.

An amusing look at different American regions by the eating challenges that help define it, "Man v. Food" is available to purchase and rent through most online retailers and to stream on Discovery+ and Max .

24. Tales by Light

If a vacation isn't documented and shared on Instagram, did it actually take place? Photography in some of Earth's most jaw-droppingly gorgeous places is the central premise behind the Australian travel series "Tales by Light." Each episode follows different professional photographers who tell an immersive story about exotic destinations through their pictures and videos. The perfect travel series for the social media-oriented generation, "Tales by Light" delivers truly breathtaking photographs and videos from the overlooked corners of the world.

All three beautifully rendered "Tales by Light" seasons are currently available to stream on Netflix .

23. Conan Without Borders

As an extension of his popular talk show on TBS, veteran host Conan O'Brien took his series on the road on multiple occasions to experience different cultures around the world. These special episodes were compiled in the online "Conan Without Borders," as O'Brien eschewed his typical talk show format. Traveling everywhere from Cuba to South Korea, O'Brien explores the societal morays of each of these destinations with his usual comedic antics and insight. A welcome change of pace from his usual formula, O'Brien blends biting political commentary with a genuine appreciation for local cultures, with "Conan Without Borders" winning an Emmy for its efforts.

"Conan Without Borders" is currently available to stream on Max .

22. The Moaning of Life

When British comedian and actor Karl Pilkington faced something of a midlife crisis, he decided to examine the lives and cultures of others around the world to gain a better sense of perspective (per Cinema Blend ). The resulting international tour was filmed for the British travel series "The Moaning of Life," as Pilkington contemplated love, life, and mortality on the road. To expand his view on the human condition, Pilkington visits drive-thru weddings in Las Vegas, professional mourners in Taiwan, and fertility clinics in Japan. The Hollywood Reporter's review of "The Moaning of Life" complimented the show's existential subject matter and Pilkington's hilarious perspective on the world to make its messaging less somber.

A good-natured look at life, death, and everything in between with an international scope, "The Moaning of Life" is available for purchase and rent on most major digital retailers, including Prime Video and Vudu .

21. Long Way Round

The first of a trilogy of documentary series, 2004's "Long Way Round" puts Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman in the driver's seat as they ride motorcycles from London to New York City eastward. The 19,000-mile journey is undertaken to promote the international humanitarian causes spearheaded by UNICEF, while McGregor and Boorman endure pitfalls and injuries in their journies around the globe. Inspired by the experience, McGregor and Boorman wrote a book detailing their journey, including McGregor adopting an orphan encountered along the way. The kind of celebrity road trip that doesn't feel overly pretentious or self-indulgent, McGregor and Boorman provide a unique perspective as they embark on a truly epic journey.

"Long Way Round" is currently available to stream on Apple TV+ .

20. Three Sheets

Not all cuisine is solid, which is why the 2008 travel series "Three Sheets" showcased a decidedly liquid diet as it visited drinking cultures around the world. Hosted by comedian Zane Lamprey, the show highlights local alcoholic beverages at a multitude of destinations, learning about their history and cultural impact. Of course, this examination goes beyond a mere history lesson, with Zamprey partaking in the beverages, usually in impressive quantities. Part travel series and part televised pub crawl, Lamprey is often accompanied on his journeys by a group of guests, including his college friend Steve McKenna.

After starting on MOJO HD, "Three Sheets" was broadcast on various platforms before ending its run on Spike in 2011. Most of the series is currently available to buy on Prime Video .

19. Worth It

The popular Buzzfeed series "Worth It" offers three different and simultaneous perspectives on the worldwide dining scene in each episode. The show has the three hosts, Steven Lim, Andrew Ilnyckyj, and Adam Bianchi, order three different dishes from a range of price points at varying destinations. This can entail a cheap cup of coffee or designer espresso costing hundreds of dollars while visiting Tokyo. The underlying question is whether or not the dishes are worth the price. Winning a Streamy Award, "Worth It" has been credited with changing how people approach food criticism online, actively comparing quality with price points worldwide (per SBS ).

Available to stream on Hulu , "Worth It" helps viewers know how best to check out the food scenes and types of cuisine in several countries.

18. Somebody Feed Phil

After getting his start travel hosting on PBS, Phil Rosenthal went bigger and better for the Netflix original series "Somebody Feed Phil" in 2018. While maintaining the broader premise of his previous show, "I'll Have What Phil Is Having," Rosenthal's Netflix series feels like a more personal experience for its host. Occasionally checking in with his brother, parents, and son while he is on the road, Rosenthal continues to sample local cuisine from around the world. As Rosenthal visits major international cities, he spotlights local charities and nonprofit organizations active in the destinations, providing a more community-based scope.

"Somebody Feed Phil" is currently available to stream on Netflix .

17. Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father

Popular British comedian Jack Whitehall and his longtime television producer father, Michael, take their paternal dynamic on the road for the Netflix original series "Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father." With a decided focus on familial comedy, the Whitehalls find themselves in countless awkward and hilarious situations worldwide as they bond together over their international trips. The two men learn about the cultures they visit, from Cambodia to Turkey, with the final season bringing the father-son duo back to the United Kingdom. Though Jack and Michael Whitehall's antics are played for laughs, the societies they visit are largely treated with the utmost respect as they travel through the jungle and desert together.

All five "Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father" seasons are available to stream on Netflix .

16. Extreme Engagement

Journalists and producers PJ Madam and Tim Noonan decided to put their then-recent engagement to the test around the world for the Netflix original series "Extreme Engagement." The miniseries has the happy couple travel around the globe for over a year to see how their relationship endures. While the premise feels relatively scripted, rather than providing an authentically spontaneous show, "Extreme Engagement" offers a romantic twist on the travelog format. Noonan and Madam visit romantic destinations that keep the focus on love and lasting relationships, from observing ancient fertility rituals to meeting cultural practices promoting romantic love.

A love odyssey that spans the islands of Indonesia to remote villages in Africa, "Extreme Engagement" is currently available to stream on Netflix .

15. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives

Restauranteur and television host Guy Fieri has become something of a cultural icon himself, and Fieri's flagship series is the enormously popular "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." Premiering in 2006 on the Food Network, the show has Fieri travel across North America, stopping at diners, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and dive bars to sample their signature cuisine. Occasionally joined by an impressive set of celebrity guest stars, Fieri has visited hundreds of locations as part of his cross-country odyssey. Due to the sheer popularity of "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," many of these spots have seen a noticeable increase in business following episode airings.

As the gold standard among Fieri's travel and food reality shows, "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" is available to rent and purchase via most online retailers and to stream on Discovery+ and Max .

14. Survivorman

Travel isn't just luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts; for some, vacations involve roughing it in the wild and returning to nature through camping and other immersive experiences. The Canadian travel and wilderness survival series "Survivorman" takes these sensibilities to their extreme as host Les Stroud spends over a week alone in remote locations. With only a handful of tools and the clothes on his back, Stroud has to make do with local flora and fauna to survive these conditions for the allotted time. As a much more stripped-down and extreme approach than "Man vs. Wild," Stroud takes audiences everywhere, from the frozen expanse of Alaska to the predator-filled Amazon rainforest.

For those looking for the ultimate survivalist approach to the world's most unforgiving locations, "Survivorman" is available to stream on Discovery+ and Roku and to rent and purchase through most digital retailers.

13. An Idiot Abroad

When comedian Karl Pilkington's friends and frequent collaborators Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant learned he had no interest in world travel, the two created the series "An Idiot Abroad" in response. Capitalizing on Pilkington's often innocently naive worldview, the British travel show is primarily played for laughs as Pilkington makes wry observations about the destinations he visits. Not content to simply let Pilkington take in the picturesque sights, sounds, and cuisine, Gervais and Merchant have Pilkington endure several challenges, including bungee-jumping in New Zealand and swimming with sharks in Australia. MSN's review of "An Idiot Abroad" praised the mishaps for Pilkington's voyages orchestrated by Gervais and Merchant, with Pilkington's odd perspective and observations elevating the entire show.

A humorous look at the most gorgeous international locales, "An Idiot Abroad" is available to purchase and rent on most digital retailers, including Prime Video and Vudu .

12. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations

After two seasons on the Food Network with "A Cook's Tour," Bourdain made the leap to the Travel Channel to host his popular travel series "Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations." Running for nine seasons from 2005-2012, Bourdain upped the scope considerably from his previous series while still retaining its everyman qualities. Backed by a more ambitious production, Bourdain visits a wider range of locales while incorporating his love of pop culture and inviting celebrity guests, including Bill Murray and Sean Penn. One of the more notable episodes sees Bourdain and his film crew trapped in Beirut during the 2006 Israel-Lebanon War. "No Reservations" went on to win two Emmy Awards and multiple nominations as a testament to the show's captivating perspective on the world. 

"Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations" is available to purchase from most online retailers and to stream on Discovery+ , Max , and through the Travel Channel website with a linked television provider.

11. Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted

After exploring and experiencing culinary traditions in Southeast Asia firsthand in his first travel series, chef Gordon Ramsay expanded the scope of his follow-up show " Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted " to encompass the whole world. Premiering on National Geographic in 2019, "Uncharted" has Ramsay visit different countries to learn about their cuisine and cooking techniques and take advantage of local thrills. From white water rafting through Laos to climbing up Alaskan mountains and glaciers, Ramsay showcases a more outdoorsy side of himself beyond the world of restaurants and kitchens. In Forbes' review of the series, Ramsay's genuine enthusiasm for the subject matter and destinations he visits was praised for elevating the premise and showing a new side to the temperamental chef.

"Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted" is available to stream through Disney+ and Hulu .

10. Chef's Table

After directing the universally acclaimed documentary film "Jiro Dreams of Sushi" in 2011, filmmaker David Gelb teamed up with Netflix for its original documentary series, "Chef's Table." Premiering in 2015, the show focuses on a different cook for each episode, from a Korean monk renowned for her kimchi to Mexican street food in Philadelphia. With its highly detailed and stylized cinematography and in-depth portraits of its subjects, "Chef's Table" is one of the best documentary series currently on the air. "Chef's Table" brings a global scope to cuisine while never losing sight of the very grounded and human story behind each of the cooks that make every dish possible. The show has been nominated for multiple Emmy Awards as it shines a light on everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to hole-in-the-wall dining locations. 

The main "Chef's Table" series and its numerous spinoffs are available to stream on Netflix .

9. The Amazing Race

In contrast to "Survivor," which keeps its contestants in a single remote location for an entire season, CBS' long-running reality series "The Amazing Race" takes full advantage of its global scope. Teams of two speed through different legs around the world, following clues and completing challenges to gain an edge. On the air since 2001, "The Amazing Race" has showcased some of the most stunning locales on the planet while pitting its teams in genuinely thrilling competitions each season. With many seasons of "The Amazing Race" offering a journey with contestants circumnavigating the globe, the travel element to the reality competition series is unmistakably at the forefront.

"The Amazing Race" is available to stream on Hulu , Netflix , and Paramount+ .

8. Expedition Unknown

With so many legends and historical mysteries around the world demanding answers, archaeologist Josh Gates sets out to find the truth in the Discovery Channel series "Expedition Unknown." From cryptozoology searches for mythical creatures like Bigfoot to attempting to discover clues linked to the lost city of Atlantis, Gates positions himself as a real-life Indiana Jones. Part globe-trotting history lesson, part debunking widely known myths, "Expedition Unknown" provides a fun twist on international travel off the beaten path. As an immensely popular show, "Expedition Unknown" has spawned several spinoff specials, miniseries, and after shows as Gates widens his worldwide search for truth.

"Expedition Unknown" is currently available to stream on Discovery+ and  Max and is available to purchase or rent through most online retailers.

7. Dark Tourist

Not every tourist is going to check out conventional art museums or major family-friendly attractions in their voyages around the world. The Netflix original series "Dark Tourist" offers travelers a chance to check out the more off-beat elements of local cultures, sometimes venturing into the outright macabre. Hosted by journalist David Farrier, "Dark Tourist" visits the purportedly haunted areas of major cities and tourism sites capitalizing on local tragedies and notorious figures around the world. From exploring irradiated sites to touring museums dedicated to infamous serial killers, "Dark Tourist" certainly isn't every traveler's cup of tea by the way it provides a morbid twist on the genre.

"Dark Tourist" is currently available to stream on Netflix .

6. The National Parks: America's Best Idea

Celebrated documentarian Ken Burns, who has crafted documentary series chronicling numerous elements of American culture and history, turned his attention to the country's national parks. The 2009 six-episode miniseries "The National Parks: America's Best Idea" recounts the history behind the parks and how they each capture the stirring beauty of the United States. From the enduring legacy of John Muir to the evolution of the National Park Service, "The National Parks" is a must-watch for anyone planning to visit the natural wonders nationwide. Universally acclaimed, "The National Parks" won two Emmy Awards, with critics praising how the documentary series presented the parks as a gorgeous extension of the national identity.

Released with a companion book expanding its story, "The National Parks: America's Best Idea" is currently available to stream on PBS with WOSU Passport and Prime Video with PBS Documentaries.

5. The Grand Tour

After being ousted from hosting "Top Gear," Jeremy Clarkson and his co-hosts Richard Hammond and James May took their globe-trotting automobile expertise to Prime Video for "The Grand Tour" (via Variety ). Retaining much of the format from their previous work together on "Top Gear," "The Grand Tour" has participants travel to different destinations using an impressive array of cars. From Cambodia to Madagascar, "The Grand Tour" showcases thrilling routes and cars, backed by the hosts' irascible wit. The Independent's positive review of "The Grand Tour" praised the show as distilling the best elements from "Top Gear" while boasting a significantly larger production budget.

With jaw-dropping destinations and high-octane action, "The Grand Tour" is currently available to stream on Prime Video .

4. Passport with Samantha Brown

Television personality Samantha Brown has built an impressive empire of travel shows on a number of platforms. One of Brown's most enduring lines of programming to date is "Passport," which sees Brown extensively explore different regions around the world for the ultimate experience. Starting with 2004's "Passport to Europe," Brown launched several different shows, taking her informative style to examine Latin America, China, and eco-friendly tourism. Brown's "Passport to Europe" won a Daytime Emmy Award while the subsequent "Passport to Latin America" was nominated for an Emmy, as a testament to Brown's eye for entertainment and educational quality. 

Brown's "Passport" series are currently available to stream on Discovery+ .

3. Anthony Bourdain: The Layover

As someone who hosted travel shows since 2002, Anthony Bourdain has experienced a lot of extended layovers and quick detours between trips to larger destinations. This premise of enjoying a locale on a tight turnaround time drives the core premise behind his Travel Channel series "The Layover." With only 24-48 hours in each location, Bourdain enjoys as much of the tourist-oriented and locally authentic experiences as he can before departing once more. A more tightly paced approach to Bourdain's usual travel fare, "The Layover" still finds the time to provide an informative look at different city cultures all over the globe. 

Invaluable for those looking to make the most of their time on a tight schedule, "Anthony Bourdain: The Layover" is available to stream on Discovery+ , along with purchase and rent options on most digital platforms.

2. Rick Steves' Europe

Perhaps the gold standard in public broadcasting produced travel shows, "Rick Steves' Europe" follows travel author and television personality Rick Steves as he explores cities in Europe. Running from 2000 to 2021, Steves not only shares the biggest cultural landmarks and defining fare in each destination, but he provides audiences with valuable travel tips along the way. More than simply focusing on the biggest tourist spots, like London and Paris, Steves adds plenty of overlooked getaways, including Slovenia and Oslo. With a steady hand and wealth of knowledge, Steves has provided his even-keeled traveler wisdom to those interested in visiting Europe for decades.

"Rick Steves' Europe" is currently available to stream on the show's website , PBS with WOSU Passport, Prime Video , and Tubi .

1. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

Television personality Anthony Bourdain's final travel show was "Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown," which ran for 12 seasons on CNN from 2013 to 2018. Though "Parts Unknown" certainly retains the focus on local cuisine prominent in Bourdain's past travel shows, the CNN series weaves in more sociopolitical commentary in examining its locales. The series came to an abrupt end  following Bourdain's tragic death , with the remaining episodes becoming a tribute to the late host and his unique worldview. Led by Bourdain's insightful and incisive perspective on the places he visited around the world, "Parts Unknown” was widely acclaimed and won numerous Emmy Awards across its run. More than just a show about food and culture, "Parts Unknown" examines the overlooked qualities of its destinations and what brings people together on a universal level.

Available to purchase on most digital retailers, "Parts Unknown" is also available to stream on Max and Discovery+ .

Our ranking methodology

Everyone has that one show they're connected to, whether popular or not. "Best" is always subjective, and your all-time favorite series may not even be something someone else knows exists. That doesn't mean it's any less valid, though. We've tried to keep our personal opinions from this list and instead relied on more tangible elements when compiling our rankings. You'll find some of the most beloved, compelling, and critically acclaimed travel shows — and some you may have never heard of.

A travel show's host can be as important as the places traveled. There's a reason why Anthony Bourdain will always appear on lists like this one. His captivating storytelling capabilities and genuinely raw nature make for compelling TV that viewers resonate with. This kind of grab power shows up throughout our list of picks, with the face and voice of a program helping to boost some of the programs in our rankings.

We've considered the likability of the shows chosen here by scouring reviews from multiple sources, like Reddit, Rotten Tomatoes, and IMDb. We've also factored in the number of seasons and any accolades a show may have been given. A lack of awards certainly doesn't dull a hidden gem's luster, though, so don't be surprised that many shows featured here have gone under the award committees' radar.

50 of the Best Travel-ish Shows to Watch When You Can't Travel

Abbie Mood Lang

August 8, 2023

We can only travel so much ( no matter how cheap the flights are ). So when you inevitably settle down onto the couch, check out one of these shows to transport you to a different place until you can get there in person.  

Here are 50 of our favorite travel tv shows. 

Traditional Travel Shows

1. Rick Steves’ Europe

Rick Steves might be a bit bookish but that’s one of the things we love about him. The man knows Europe—and the continent’s history—like the back of his hand, and his love for the region is clear. Whether you already love the countries and cities he visits, too, or are dreaming of the day you finally make it there, don’t be surprised if you find yourself geeking out right along with him. Available on: Amazon, Hulu, YouTube

>> Get inspired with our list of 25 ideas for where to go in Europe.

2. passport to europe with samantha brown.

Sam Brown travels with a sense of curiosity and excitement that you can’t help but get caught up in. “Passport to Europe with Samantha Brown” is packed with history, popular landmarks, local restaurants, and shopping spots—literally everything you need to know about both major cities and smaller spots in Europe.  Available on: Amazon 

3. The Layover

This one is made for travelers who love to maximize every. single. second. when they travel, including the time in between flights (looking at you, Type As). In “The Layover,” the late Anthony Bourdain uses every travel trick in the book to do—and eat—as much as he can within 24-48 hours.  Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Sling, Amazon

>> Plan your own short adventure with our layover guides.

4. the national parks: america's best idea.

Most of us have hiked, backpacked, or at the very least, driven through one of the United States’ national parks. From lesser-visited spots like the Gates of the Arctic in Alaska to (maybe a little too) popular ones like Yellowstone, this documentary pays homage to these beautiful places, sharing the history of the national park system from the 1800s to the present time through breathtaking video footage, interviews, and untold stories.  Available on: Amazon, YouTube

5. Globe Trekker

Featuring a rotating cast of hosts, “Globe Trekker” is a real-life version of the Lonely Planet guidebooks. The first few seasons were filmed in the 90s so don’t expect high-def, but over two decades they cover just about everywhere that you could think of, from London to Northern India to the Australian Outback. Available on: Amazon 

Experiential Travel Shows

6. Dark Tourist

If you are fascinated by all things unusual—and maybe even morbid—you’ll definitely get some ideas from this Netflix series. In “Dark Tourist,” journalist David Farrier explores destinations with a grim history, like witnessing an exorcism in Mexico, hiking through a haunted forest in Japan, or swimming in a lake formed by a nuclear blast in Kazakhstan. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you if you have trouble sleeping after! Available on: Netflix

7. Conan Without Borders

Team Coco, this one is for you. See a side of Conan you never knew you needed as your favorite late-night talk show host takes his antics on the road to experience pop culture in other countries firsthand. Always wanted to see Conan star in a telenovela? Check. Wonder if he could hack it as a K-pop star? Done. Curious to see what his, um, dance skills look like? Season 1, Episode 1.  Available on: Netflix

8. Tales by Light

There’s something about an amazing photo that makes the rest of us wonder how it even happened. While there’s a little bit of “right place, right time” to many great shots, the best photographers know exactly what to look for when it comes to lighting, angles, and capturing emotions and feelings. Not just a behind-the-scenes look at how the pictures are taken, “Tales by Light” also show us how powerful images can be when it comes to conservation. Available on: Netflix

9. Expedition Unknown

With a background in archaeology and a “passion for the unexplained,” Josh Gates investigates unsolved mysteries, lost cities, and buried treasure all around the world. He’s got a little bit of an Indiana Jones vibe going on, and actually does get himself in some hairy situations while tackling challenges like searching for Amelia Earhart’s remains in Fiji—but without the Nazis breathing down his neck or giant boulders barreling his way. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling

10. The Moaning of Life

After “An Idiot Abroad” concluded and comedian Karl Pilkington turned 40, he had some big life questions, as one does. “The Moaning of Life” documents Pilkington’s mid-life crisis as he travels around the world to see how other cultures tackle big topics like marriage, having children (they’re not for him), the secret to happiness, and even death. Available on: Amazon 

11. Planet Earth

The BBC put some serious funding into the production of “Planet Earth” and it has paid off. The series has been awarded four Emmys and a Peabody Award from the Royal Television Society for its breathtaking episodes featuring a different biome or habitat each time. From the Arctic and Antarctica to the depths of the oceans, if this doesn’t inspire you to see more of our planet, nothing will. Available on: YouTube, Amazon

Road Trips 

12. Long Way Round

Watch actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman hop on their BMW R1150GS Adventure motorcycles (hey, some people are interested in those kinds of details) and cruise from London to New York. They take an eastern route through Europe, Asia, and Alaska, then down to the contiguous US, usually off-road. The two have an obvious shared passion for riding, which is a definite requirement if you plan to sit on a bike seat for 19,000 miles! Available on: Amazon

13. Long Way Down

A sequel to their 2004 adventure, Long Way Down follows Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman again as they ride their trusty motorcycles from Scotland through Europe and down Africa to Cape Town, South Africa. This time the duo covers an impressive 15,000 miles—though as the episodes show, it’s not always easy. Available on: Tubi

14. Epic Drives

Come for the cars, stay for the conversations. Created in partnership with Motor Trend magazine, this show highlights fast cars, unique trucks (Ford Falcon XR6 Ute anyone?), and stories from locals in epic locations. Available on: YouTube

15. Top Gear

There’s a reason that there are nine (!) movies in the Fast & Furious franchise—people love watching drivers push their cars to the limit. "Top Gear" is part review, part road trip, and all adrenaline, and the celebrity guest drivers and absurd challenges add to the fun. Now that we think about it, maybe Rocket League® was inspired by the Top Gear Car Sports segment…? Available on: YouTube TV, Amazon 

16. The Grand Tour

Filled with bits of uniquely quirky (and questionable) advice like “looking good is more important than looking where you’re going,” "The Grand Tour" finds Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May (of “Top Gear” fame) driving unique automobiles in interesting places. The friends drive everything from an Aston Martin in South Africa to the Fiat Panda 4x4 in Colombia to beach buggies in Namibia. They talk, they eat, they race. Available on: Amazon 

Food & Drink

17. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations

“No Reservations” combines two of the best things about traveling: food and adventure. Throw in Anthony Bourdain and you’ve got a truly entertaining TV show. The chef gets down and dirty in each location, giving us a look at not just the food, but the people and a fun way to experience the culture. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling, Amazon 

18. Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown

Bourdain once said, “You learn a lot about someone when you share a meal together.” “Parts Unknown” brings the table to you, as the chef learns about the history of often-complicated places (Detroit, Iran, Senegal) by sharing a traditional food or drink with the people who live there.  Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Amazon 

19. Gordon Ramsay's Uncharted

Chef Gordon Ramsay is probably best known for his strong personality on his reality TV shows, like “Hell’s Kitchen,” but in “Uncharted,” we see a more humble side of the Brit. He frequently finds himself thrown out of his comfort zone while learning about the cuisine or traditional cooking methods from a local and is then thrown into the fire by attempting to make a dish for the community himself. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling, Disney+

20. Gordon's Great Escape

Imagine Gordon Ramsay in a white tank top, admitting that he has no idea what he’s doing and traveling around India (often on motorbike) to become versed on what “real” curry is like compared to the dish he loves in the UK. The show embodies the sights and sounds of India and Ramsay even experiences “travel sickness,” just like the rest of us. The last four episodes take place in Southeast Asia and Ramsay continues his role as the student, which isn’t a position we’re used to seeing him in. Available on: Amazon, Disney+

21. Ugly Delicious

Each episode revolves around a type of food and then James Beard Award-winning chef David Chang travels to different countries to explore how those places interpret it or make it. With close-up shots of the food as it’s being made, cooked, and consumed, you can almost smell the warm pizza crust and feel the heat of the hot chicken in your mouth. Available on: Netflix

22. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

If you like “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee,” you’ll love "Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner." David Chang travels the world to meet up with funny, food-loving celebrities like Seth Rogen and Chrissy Teigen as they embark on culinary adventures in various cities around the world. Available on: Netflix

23. Street Food

Street food is almost like a culture within a culture. Wherever you go, travelers can count on carts to have the most authentic food—and people—you’ll ever find. Capturing the vibrant colors and essence of each dish, this show manages to make even the most humble of street food look so beautiful; it's like a love letter to the food and the people who make it. Available on: Netflix

24. Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern

Even if you consider yourself an adventurous eater, this one might make you a little squeamish. But hey, you’ve gotta give Zimmern credit for being up for anything, like lamb brains and duck tongue. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling, Amazon 

25. Three Sheets

Comedian Zane Lamprey is living the dream—traveling the world to meet new people and drink alcohol with them. It’s essentially an international pub crawl, including the day-after hangover cures. Available on: Amazon 

26. I’ll Have What Phil’s Having

Phil Rosenthal is hilarious (he did create “Everybody Loves Raymond”) but in a very wholesome way. He had an admittedly bland diet as a child, so Rosenthal wants to experience as much as he can as an adult—even if that means stepping into the unknown. His friendly demeanor and childlike innocence make you feel like you are just tagging along with an uncle and experiencing a place for the first time. Available on: YouTube, Amazon 

27. Somebody Feed Phil

In “Somebody Feed Phil,” Rosenthal actually brings his friends and family along as he visits cities ranging from Tel Aviv to New Orleans. Phil’s excitement is contagious as he tastes the best pizza, egg cream—and even hot dog—of his life. Available on: Netflix

28. BuzzFeed's Worth It

BuzzFeed knows how to tap into popular culture, and “Worth It” offers a unique spin on your typical food review. Instead of just eating a meal somewhere and talking about it, hosts Steven Lim and Andrew Ilnyckyj eat three different dishes at three different price points (affordable, mid, luxury) and then decide if it’s worth it to spend more money. The guys bring an everyman attitude to the whole show, so they rarely pick the most expensive option. Available on: Hulu, BuzzFeed’s website

29. Booze Traveler

Host Jack Maxwell is the real deal. At a young age, he made money by shining shoes in local pubs and gin mills (seriously) and then became a bartender in South Boston. He found that you can learn a lot about a person when you take the time to sit down for a couple of drinks, so naturally, he hit the road to learn about what people are drinking and why they drink it. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling

30. Chef's Table

Many cooking shows give you a look into the chef’s personality, but sometimes you want to go a little deeper, learn a little bit more. Enter Emmy-nominated series “Chef’s Table.” Each season dives into the lives and personal stories of six chefs, discussing their discipline and culinary talent while they prepare a dish. It’s the best of both worlds and a must watch for serious foodies. Available on: Netflix

31. Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father

If you’ve ever traveled with a parent, you will be hard-pressed to find a more relatable show. Comedian Jack Whitehall and his father, Michael, hit the road together to “strengthen their bond.” Dad is definitely out of his element in this one, as Jack wants to be in the thick of everything, while Michael would definitely prefer a bit more familiarity. Available on: Netflix

32. The Amazing Race

Featuring 11 teams of two that race around the world to make it to the final leg and take home the $1 million prize, contestants on “The Amazing Race” face everything from grueling heat to freezing temperatures, while having to complete physical and mental challenges on a limited budget. There are many reasons why this show is so popular, but perhaps the biggest is the relationships between the partners. Just traveling with another person on vacation can be stressful enough, but the competition adds another layer of complexity to the relationship as they try to navigate through completely foreign cities and countries. Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Sling, Amazon 

33. Survivorman

Canadian survival expert Les Stroud strands himself in the remote wilderness for 7-10 days with only his clothes, a one-man camera rig, his harmonica, a multi-tool, and often, items relevant to his survival situation or location. While it may not make you want to go off on your own in the middle of nowhere for days on end, it might motivate you to spend a little more time in nature in a place you hadn’t thought of before. Available on: Hulu, Amazon, YouTube

34. An Idiot Abroad

Poor Karl Pilkington is constantly pranked by British comics Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant in “An Idiot Abroad.” To be fair, it’s probably not possible for Pilkington to be that clueless, but he plays the part well and with quite a bit of humor as he’s repeatedly surprised and confused about the cultural customs of people around the world. Available on: YouTube, Amazon

35. Restaurants on the Edge

Love a good makeover show? Check out “Restaurants on the Edge,” a show in which three food and design experts revive restaurants that are on the edge of failing by re-connecting them with the local culture and food. The newly improved eateries offer a redesigned decor and unique menu, but the views throughout the show—filmed at restaurants in places like Malta, St. Lucia, and Hong Kong—give you a real idea of what the locale looks like. Available on: Netflix

36. Extreme Engagement

It’s your typical love story: man and woman meet, fall madly in love, get engaged, and then spend two years apart while man is filming another TV show. Okay, so that last part is not so typical, but when PJ Madam and Tim Noonan came back together, they decided to spend every waking second together and travel the world for an entire year to see if their relationship could cut it. Unlike most travel shows that visit the hotspots, the couple travels to remote villages and experiences life with tribespeople in their quest to “discover the secret to a perfect marriage,” giving viewers a real sense of place and a deep look at places many tourists never see. Available on: Netflix

37. House Hunters International

If you’ve ever dreamt of living abroad, “House Hunters International” is the best way to get a glimpse of life in another country—and where you could potentially live there. The buyers’ often-unrealistic expectations or lavish budgets have become the source for many a meme and with 115 seasons , you’ve got some catching up to do. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling

38. Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost

“Vagabrothers” Marko and Alex Ayling vlog their 24-hour adventures in popular cities across the globe. Each episode starts with a little brotherly competition with a trivia question about the city to determine who will experience the destination on a shoestring budget and who will get to ball out. Whether you’re a penny-pinching backpacker or an all-out baller when you travel, you’ll get to see both sides of the coin. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV

Scripted Shows Set Abroad

39. Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories

The show takes place in a fictional small Japanese bar called Meshiya in Tokyo that is open from midnight to 7 a.m. While the menu technically only offers four things—sake, beer, shōchū, and tonjiru, a pork soup — the chef (known only as the Master) will create any dish that a customer may want using the ingredients that he has on-hand that night. The camera follows that night’s patrons out of the bar and into their lives to continue their stories, but still manages to capture the true feeling of the show—that food is about coming together but life is boring without a little joy every now and then. Available on: Netflix

Based on the lives of five single men and women in their 30s in Jerusalem, “Srugim” checks all the boxes for a binge-worthy show: controversial issues (in the Religious Zionist society), marriage problems, a character struggling with their sexuality, and a bonus for travel junkies—true cultural immersion. Available on: Amazon Prime, YouTube

Regularly ranked as one of the most popular TV shows of all-time in the US, “Lost” is about the survivors of a commercial jet airliner that crashed on a mysterious island in the South Pacific Ocean en route from Sydney to Los Angeles. The show was filmed at Mokulē'ia Beach, near the northwest tip of Oahu, making it easy to imagine spending a week on your very own deserted island. Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Amazon 

42. Outlander

With elements of romance, history, and science fiction, “Outlander” is filled with sweeping landscapes, historic castles, and elegant gardens. Filmed mostly in the Scottish Highlands, but also in Prague (to capture the spirit of 18th-century France in Season 2) and Cape Town, South Africa, you can visit many of the sites where Clare Randall lived her double lives. Available on: Netflix, Hulu, Sling, YouTube TV 

43. Downton Abbey

This series is set in the fictional Yorkshire country estate of Downton Abbey between 1912 and 1926 and depicts the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants. If the show inspires a trip to the British countryside, be sure to add Highclere Castle to your list—it’s where the TV show was filmed. Available on: Amazon, YouTube

44. Grantchester

Taking place in a picturesque 1950s Cambridgeshire village named Grantchester, this detective drama will have you dreaming of spending your next vacation in a sleepy British town. You can actually visit the actual town of some 540 people and take a walk through the Grantchester Meadows, stop in the pub, and sit down for afternoon tea, just like Sidney Chambers and Geordie Keating. Available on: Amazon, YouTube 

45. Trapped

Though it’s been gaining in popularity as a tourist destination in the past few years, Iceland is still a country that feels quite wild and remote. “Trapped” captures that feeling in this crime drama taking place in as isolated Icelandic town, where the chief of police tries to solve the murder of a former townsperson after his mutilated corpse is found by fishermen. Available on: Amazon 

46. The Kettering Incident

The Australian drama is based on the mysterious disappearance of two young girls, but the dark and enchanting landscapes are a central part of the show. This one might not have a happy premise, but the filming locations in and around the town of Kettering and Bruny Island in Tasmania are sure to kick your wanderlust into overdrive.  Available on: Amazon, YouTube  

47. Top of the Lake

Set in a remote mountain town in New Zealand, "Top of the Lake" is a harrowing series about an inexperienced detective trying to figure out what happened to 12-year-old Tui, who disappeared while five months pregnant. The country’s South Island is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world and the show gives you enough of a taste that you’ll want to book a trip to Glenorchy and experience its untouched beauty for yourself.  Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Amazon

When a group of eight strangers from around the world realize they are connected telepathically, they have to find a way to keep each other safe from those who find their powers threatening. The second season includes an astonishing 15 cities and 13 countries. From action shots in Seoul to the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, the creators of "The Matrix" and "Babylon 5” outdid themselves with this one. Available on: Netflix

49. Hawaii 5-0

Take a trip to Hawaii with this TV show featuring an elite state police task force set up to fight major crimes in the state. Originally airing from 1968 to 1980, there’s also a remake that premiered in 2010 and will end in 2020. Whether you watch the old school or modern version, the swaying palm trees and ocean views will bring back memories of a tropical vacation. Available on: CBS, YouTube TV

50. Marco Polo

Yes, this TV show is about that Marco Polo. Inspired by the creator’s own legendary trip through Central Asia, “Marco Polo” gives viewers an insight into the life of one of the world’s first explorers. We challenge you to somehow not imagine yourself riding a horse through the grassland of the Mongolian-Manchurian steppe after watching a few episodes of this one. Available on: Netflix, Amazon

Ready to get off the couch and back into the world? Join Going and get amazing cheap flights —up to 90% off—delivered right to your inbox.  

Freelance Writer

Published August 8, 2023

Last updated January 9, 2024

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The Best Travel Shows Of All Time (TV, Netflix, Amazon Prime & More)

If you are like me and always yearning to travel, then one of the best ways to do this from home is to watch amazing travel shows on TV.

Over the years I have spent way too much of my spare time consuming every travel show under the sun. And, I thought it was high time I shared some of them with you.

So, without further ado, here are some of the best travel shows on TV – whether it be DVD, Netflix or Amazon.

1. Long Way Round

I remember watching the Long Way Round years ago (2004), which is still clear in my memory. The world-famous Ewan McGregor and one of his best friends Charlie Boorman, pursue their passion for BMW motorbikes and adventure travel and head east from London, as far as possible.

The journey was nearly 19 thousand miles (33,000 kms) and took them through Europe, overland through Asia (Russia, Kazakhstan and Mongolia) to the USA and New York.

Of course, they do take a crew with them, but this is hardcore overland travel at its best. No script, all the hardships are shown. Boy, they had a difficult time in some parts of Asia!

Update: They have the latest episode in this series, Long Way Up, which features the boys riding from Ushuaia in Argentina to Los Angeles. This is more or less the classic Pan-American Highway route that travelers love!

2. Long Way Down

Following on from the 2004 success, Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman set out again in 20017. This time North to South from Scotland to Cape Town in the Long Way Down . This is yet another infamous overland route and also not a simple one.

Many of the roads and countries in Africa are not in the same state as their European counterparts, so they had some challenges with their suspension. They also had quite some adventures and exciting visits, even with presidents!

If you liked the first one of the series, then this is an equally good follow-up.

It’s also available on Amazon.

Below is a quick intro to the show. It’s worth taking a look.

3. Anthony Bourdain (Parts Unknown, No Reservations, A Cook’s Tour & The Layover)

With the sad news of his recent passing, how can I not include one of the food travel show classics from Anthony Bourdain and his team at CNN? This series was still being filmed at the time of this death, and they have since tried to finalise it without being able to use him for voiceovers. However, there is so much material in this series, you won’t be stressed looking for things to watch.

Anthony was actually made famous by his book, Kitchen Confidential , where he revealed how things work in the restaurant business. I actually read this book over 20 years ago, long before I even realised he was on TV.

Parts Unknown is a unique take on travel from Anthony where he visits various countries around the world that interest him and explores all the great food they have on offer. But, he does not go for the classy restaurants and showy food, he looks for the best of what locals enjoy.

And dives right in himself! It’s super-inspiring to see someone so famous get down and dirty and have absolutely zero pretence. He loves food. He loves people. And he loves to travel. What more could you ask for in a TV Show.

Some of the series from Parts Unknown is available on Amazon .

As are some of his older series like No Reservations , A Cook’s Tour , The Layover

And here is a quick preview of season 7 from CNN.

4. Departures – with Scott Wilson and Justin Lukach

Two best friends from Canada decide they need a little excitement in their lives and head off for a year of adventure.  They end up exploring vast areas of the world and looking for as many unique experiences as possible.

The series is quite in-depth, covering 43 episodes , and almost as many countries. And by the time you have finished it, I will be surprised if you don’t just get up and go traveling yourself.

You can grab it on Bluray on Amazon.

Here is a quick intro to the series.

5. Simon Reeve Travels

I absolutely love to watch Louis Theroux on TV. His bumbling, almost nerd-like charm somehow disarms all the crazy nut-jobs that he interviews.

Simon Reeve, at least to me, seems like his equal in the BBC travel world. He is not a gung-ho daring, Tom Cruise look-alike. He is a down-to-earth, easy-to-like, bumbling reporter who takes to the most interesting places on earth. And makes you fall in love with them all as much as he does.

We have started watching some of his earlier shows. We have started with his crazy trip around the Equator. But some of the others are available on the BBC (if you live in the UK) including such trips as: the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Australia, Africa, Colombia and many more.

Here is a quick intro to the Caribbean series.

6. Rick Steves Travel Series

Another prolific traveler and creator of travel-related content both on and offline is Rick Steves. If you type in many European-related travel searches in Google, you will often find his website in the top ten.

He seems to have been everywhere worldwide and made a TV show about most of it. He appeals to an older demographic in my opinion, as his commentary is a little stiffer, but you can certainly learn a lot from this guy.

You can check them out on his website.

And below is an intro to Season 9 of his European series.

7. Michael Palins (Various Adventures around the world)

Michael Palin, a former Monty Python member and Jon Cleese, has been producing top-notch travel series for years and is a little more old-school than Rick Steves. His shows focus on longer adventures, similar to A Long Way Round, although perhaps not as challenging.

They are fun to watch, and you certainly get to see some of the lesser-explored regions of the world. Although some of these series will be a little dated by now – I remember watching some decades ago!

And just as I said that I took a look and saw he has since made some new series on Channel 5 in the UK, including a trip into the forbidden land of North Korea !

Michael Palin’s Around the World in 80 Days

8. An Idiot Abroad

Venturing into a little bit of Travel Comedy, An Idiot Abroad is the brainchild of the creator of the British (original) The Office, along with a few co-creators. The idea is to send someone who has almost never left their town, let alone lifestyle and send them to some very foreign destinations.

Along the way, they experience some extremely challenging destinations and situations all in the name of broadening their horizons. Karl Pilkington will never be the same again, and maybe neither will you.

You can grab Season 1 and Season 2 on Amazon.

Here is a quick Best Of from the China episode to give you a taste of the show.

9. Travel Man with Richard Ayoade

Another long-running comedy travel show from the UK, Travel Man is very short episode focused on 48 hours in various cities, mainly in Europe. Of course, now that he is on about his 10th season, he has started to venture a little further afield. Apart from his sarcasm, one of the best things about the show for me is the wacky things he (or his team) finds in every location. Not your run-of-the-mill tourist attractions.

Each episode is extremely sarcastic and accompanied by another usually British comedian, so people outside the UK may have trouble laughing or even understanding what he is saying. His accent is strong and his vocabulary is broad. You might have seen him as one of the wacky IT experts in t he IT Crowd (which you can see on Netflix ), a little like the British version of Silicon Valley, albeit filmed years before.

There are various seasons up for grabs on Amazon .

If you want to see if it’s up to your alley, here is a quick taste of Richard with some of his fellow comedians on the show.

10. Top Gear

Intended as a bit of a petrolhead’s show about cars, Top Gear has also done a significant amount of travel-related shows over the years too. From the drives down the most dangerous roads in the world to almost killing themselves in places like Switzerland. Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May will show you a great time on the road and while traveling.

You can check out Season 1 here on Amazon and other seasons that follow.

11. Joanna Lumley’s Travel Series

Joanna Lumley became famous back in the 70s, but for me, she became even more famous for her role in Absolutely Fabulous. Since then, she has traveled and filmed it all for us. She has also done a “making of” series that I enjoyed. She may seem very posh and British when you first see her shows, but if you love sarcasm and comedy then just wait a bit and she will deliver!

Here is a list of her extensive travel shows you can catch on BBC or other online streaming services:

• Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean
• Joanna Lumley in the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon
• Joanna Lumley in the Land of the Northern Lights
• Joanna Lumley’s Japan
• Joanna Lumley: The Quest For Noah’s Ark
• Joanna Lumley’s India
• Jennifer & Joanna: Absolutely Champers

The Best Travel Shows On Netflix

Netflix is a bit of a special category in this post because they don’t have many of the more famous shows above at the moment.

12. Dark Tourist

One of the more recent and perhaps more infamous trends in travel right now is called Dark Tourism. With the recent airing of the series about Chornobyl, it seems to have accelerated even more.

One wacky New Zealand traveler, David Farrier heads to some quirky and sometimes dangerous locations in eight episodes of Dark Tourist , which sees him head to most continents. From the recent Japanese nuclear disaster to perhaps shooting a cow in Cambodia, he tries it all.

13. Street Food: Asia

If you like to combine mouth-watering food and travel, a popular past-time, then this is a recent addition to Netflix that I am currently devouring. It shows you some amazing chefs who are almost always out on the street and serving the locals with something of an obsession. From Thailand to India, you get to see it all – no-frills cooking from some of the best street food vendors in the world.

14. Tales By Light

Another show I have been checking out lately is Tales By Light , a travel and photography-based series up to season 3. It follows a famous Australian photographer all around the world, delving into the lives of the people he meets and how he experiences travel through the lens.

15. Jack Whitehall: Travels with my Father

A show I have not had a chance to see, but it certainly looks like a travel comedy worth checking out. It involves a comedian and his stuffy father taking far-flung adventures to foreign lands and trying to teach each other a thing or two.

16. Somebody Feed Phil

A more modern version of a travel & food show, Somebody Feed Phil , is about exploring the places and food no one talks about. Phil is quite the quirky and loveable character, so you will either love him or loathe him. I watched half the first season and did not fall in love with it. However, given that Netflix has commissioned 6 seasons of the show, there must be a lot of people who love it.

17. Conan Without Borders

Following famous TV night show host Conan O’Brien to some adventurous destinations around the world, this is yet another travel and comedy combination you won’t want to miss. From Haiti and Cuba to K-Pop in South Korea this is as wacky as it is travel.

18. Restaurants on the Edge

“Restaurants on the Edge” is a Canadian reality TV series premiered in 2020. It showcases chef Dennis Prescott, designer Karin Bohn, and restaurateur Nick Liberato assisting struggling restaurants in scenic, remote locations like seashores, lakes, and mountains. This is a little like Gordon Ramsay’s old show Kitchen Nightmares, but more travel related.

The goal of the visits on this show is to rejuvenate these places by integrating them with the local culture. Additionally, the show offers a travel experience, with episodes featuring the experts exploring local areas, meeting artisans, and tasting authentic local foods.

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About the author roger timbrook.

Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!

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14 of the best travel tv shows to watch on demand.

Epic landscapes, interesting characters and cool cultures – we transport you to the best places in the world right from the comfort of your sofa, with these top travel shows on Netflix, iPlayer and others…

While you may be hitting pause on your adventures, you can still be transported somewhere wild – using your TV remote as your passport to exotic climes, instead.

Chances are you’ve seen everything travel legends David Attenborough and Simon Reeve have done, but if you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip, sweeping landscapes and interesting characters to meet, take a look at our round-up of th e best travel documentaries available to stream right now…

Best of all, you can start this journey on the couch.

Here are the best travel TV shows to watch on Netflix or on demand now...

1. the americas with simon reeve (2019).

What you’ll watch: It topped the list for best TV show at our 2020 Reader Travel Awards, but if you haven’t yet seen  The Americas with Simon Reeve , put it straight on top of your must-watch list.

And when you’ve binged on his journeys hiking through the Rocky Mountains, hanging out with the US Border Patrol in Texas and discovering a tropical paradise in Costa Rica, you can turn to his other documentaries: the Caribbean, Australia, the Mediterranean, and Indian Ocean.

If there’s anywhere this man hasn’t been or seen, we challenge you to find it.

Where to watch it: The Americas with Simon Reeve is available to watch in full on BBC iPlayer . Plus see Simon accept his Wanderlust award !

2. Race Across The World (2020)

What you'll watch:  Limited cash, no smartphones and forget about internet access – basically all the ingredients for an epic off-the-grid adventure.

In the latest series of the BBC's  Race Across The World , you can follow five teams as they race the length of Latin America, starting in Mexico City and ending in Ushuaia in Argentina, the most southerly city in the world.

Married couples and familial bonds are put to the test, as they weave friendships in the most unexpected of places on their way to the finish line. And if you can't wait until next week's episode, you can binge on series one as well. What's better than that?

Where to watch it: Catch up on series two of Race Across The World on BBC iPlayer . And read our filming locations guide .

3. Joanna Lumley's Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti (2020)

Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti is on ITV Player now (ITV)

What you'll watch: She's one of our favourite tour guides, taking us everywhere from India to the mighty Silk Road  – it is, of course, the absolutely fabulous Joanna Lumley.

Let her lead you into a lesser-seen side of the Caribbean in her new two-part documentary, Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti, which begins in a boxing gym in the lively Cuban capital.

Keep watching as she wanders the streets of Havana, discovers  Hemingway’s favourite beach and explores Fidel Castro’s hometown, before  making her way over the Windward Passage to end her adventure with trips to ancient mountain fortresses and a mystical voodoo ceremony in Haiti.

Where to watch it: Catch up on  Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti  on ITV Player   now. 

4. Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat (2018)

What to watch:   If delicious food is at the very top of your reasons-to-travel list,  Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat  is the Netflix show to tune into.

Culinary capers abound as loveable chef  Samin Nosrat takes us to Italy, Japan, Mexico and California to show us how the title elements are key to the cuisine of each country.

Where to watch it: See   Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat  on Netflix now. 

5. Ugly Delicious (2020)

What to watch: H ungry for more? Try Netflix's  Ugly Delicious  – there are two series to devour, as chef David Chang takes us to culinary hotspots across the world, showing us why good cooking is universal.

He meets everyone from pizza purists in Brooklyn and Naples to trying Viet-Cajun fusion cuisine in Houston. 

Where to watch it: Catch the new series of  Ugly Delicious  on Netflix . 

6. Night on Earth (2020)

What to watch:  Even when you're travelling, you don't get to see some of the most incredible sights - because some of them happen under the very cover of darkness.

In Netflix's Night on Earth , you can see this world open up before you, witnessing the secret lives of lions, bats and monkeys. Eerie and visually compelling stuff.

Where to watch it:  Night on Earth is on Netflix now. 

7. James May: Our Man In Japan (2020)

What you'll watch:  We know you loved Japan with Sue Perkins , but now that's it not available on iPlayer… how about racing through the island country with James May, instead?

Starting on the chilly northern island of Hokkaido, James embarks on a journey south to the balmy beaches of Shikoku and Kyushu, while meeting samurai in Honshu, sampling street food in Osaka and, of course, tackling the Suzuka Circuit on his way. 

Where to watch it:  Watch  James May: Our Man in Japan  on Amazon Prime now. 

8. Travel Man: 48 Hours in… (2019)

What you'll watch:  Richard Ayoade's droll two-day jaunts through cities across the world has provided us all with laughs since 2015.

While 2019's series was his last as lead presenter, we can still look forward to more Travel Man in the future as Hugo Boss – aka the the comedian formerly known as Joe Lycett – takes over the role.

If you haven't seen 48 Hours in… Amsterdam , it's the perfect episode to get a feel for Hugo's personality and learn more about the city's culture, cuisine and canals. 

Where to watch it: Find the past ten series of Travel Man: 48 Hours in… on All 4 .

9. Great Railway Journeys with Michael Portillo (2019)

What you'll watch:  Thousands of British commuters have  plenty to say about UK train travel, but in the hands of Michael Portillo, the divisive subject matter seems to take on a golden glow of nostalgia.

You know best, after all – you voted for the BBC's  Great Railway Journeys  as one of your top TV programmes in the last year.

Delving into the history of British rail, Michael reveals things we never knew about our local stations, including how an unlikely collaboration between London’s Crossrail railway project and a conservation charity is helping to protect birdlife in Series 11's Limehouse to Rochford episode. 

Where to watch it:  Look out for your local station on  Great British Railway Journeys   on iPlayer. 

10. Around the World in 80 Days (1989)

What to watch:  It's an oldie, but definitely a goodie – what could be better than staying in and getting a glimpse of how the world used to be with TV icon Michael Palin?

In Around the World in 80 Days , Michael follows in the footsteps of its main character Phileas Fogg, setting off on an epic adventure from London's Reform Club across the world.

Close shaves, missed connections and inevitable delays await as he desperately attempts to meet the 80-day deadline in time. A delicious throwback to a simpler time. 

Where to watch it:  Watch  Around the World in 80 Days on iPlayer . 

11. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown (2013)

What to watch:  The late Anthony Bourdain's Emmy-winning travel series is a must-watch for any traveller whose adventures are driven by a passion for excellent food.

Parts Unknown sees the world-renowned chef and documentarian delve into cuisines, cultures and politics in countries across the globe. Essentially, he eats his way around the world. 

With 12 seasons covering countless destinations (Vietnam and New York said to be two of his favourites), the later seasons take viewers on an off-the-beaten-track culinary journey through Armenia, Uruguay, Myanmar and beyond. 

Where to watch it: You can stream the series on Amazon Prime now.

12. Dark Tourist (2018)

What to watch: If you've watched the majority of travel TV already, here's one that may have slipped by you.

TV presenter David Farrier deep dives into so-called 'dark tourism': worldwide interest in visiting sites of nuclear disasters, destinations marred by danger or even death. If you've been to Chernobyl and Pripyat in Ukraine, you'll understand the fascination.

You can expect to see a trip to Turkmenistan, a visit to Pablo Escobar's former playground, Medellin in Colombia, as well as an excursion to Tomioka in Japan, the ghost town left behind after residents were evacuated following the Fukushima nuclear disaster. 

Where to watch it: You can stream one season of  Dark Tourist now on Netflix .

And… anything narrated by Sir David Attenborough

13. our planet (2019).

14. Seven Worlds, One Planet (2019)

What you'll watch: Of course, no list of travel documentaries is complete without an appearance from the legend that is Sir David Attenborough.

Most of his back catalogue is listed on Netflix, including the original  Our Planet and the BBC's iconic   Planet Earth  and  Frozen Planet.  

You can also listen to Sir David's dulcet tones on BBC iPlayer - as he takes us through  Seven Worlds, One Planet , introducing us to some of the globe's most hostile habitats and remote landscapes, while narrating the fascinating behaviour of the local creatures, such as golden snub-nosed monkeys and grey-headed albatross chicks . 

Where to watch it: Find  Our Planet   along with most of Sir David's past shows on Netflix or catch up on  Seven Worlds, One Planet on iPlayer now. 

Simon Reeve on filming BBC's   The Americas

12 epic nature and wildlife documentaries you can watch now, behind the scenes of  our planet with alastair fothergill, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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The best travel TV shows to stream right now

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• With travel suspended in the midst of the pandemic, armchair travelers are seeking ways to experience the world while under shelter-in-place guidance.
• One easy way to safely experience the globe right now is by streaming any of these incredible travel TV shows, which include straightforward travelogues, food-centric travel shows, nature documentaries, and even animation to inspire future travel plans.
• All are available to stream across platforms including Amazon , Disney+ , Hulu , and more.
• Read all Business Insider travel reviews here.

Travel was one of the first industries to grind to a halt as the pandemic crisis spread around the world and all non-essential activities fell in line soon after.

Now, with most of the planet under shelter-in-place guidance, travelers find themselves in the position of plotting their next moves from quarantine. That can mean booking cheap refundable flights or hotels far into the future or, a more cautious approach, indulging in some serious armchair traveling.

Travel books are one great way to do this , but streaming is another. Some of the best travel shows are available to watch on-demand and can soothe and inspire. Our picks for the best travel programs are available on the likes of Amazon , Disney+ , Hulu , and others. Selections include a range of content, from those with current or recent seasons to ones that ended production prior to the pandemic. We included, of course, Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown; the late chef's show will forever be essential travel viewing.

In addition to straightforward travelogues, we also included shows that are also largely food-focused on their face, such as Chef's Table, as well as critically-acclaimed picks, and some of my personal favorites as a longtime travel writer, editor, and globe trotter. 

Additionally, nature programs showcase the far reaches of the world, even highlighting its fragility, as a way to remind us to travel as responsibly as possible when we are able to return to the practice .

Here are the best travel TV shows to stream right now.

Anthony bourdain's parts unknown.

Anthony Bourdain is the quintessential travel show host — not only adventuresome but also conscious, critical, clever, literary, and far from fawning for its own sake.

The chef and author's thoughtful take may be just what you need right now, as we all seek meaning amid the current crisis. When Bourdain died in 2018, it was among the biggest stories I covered in my capacity as a travel and food journalist — until the current pandemic. Both events will leave indelible impacts.

Bourdain's show has continually been available for streaming in the nearly two years since his death. For some of the most treasured (and famous) episodes, check out the Vietnam episode in Season eight in which Bourdain famously sat down with then-president Barack Obama over beers on plastic stools. In all, Parts Unknown has 12 seasons to stream, including the last one that aired after his death. 

Stream Parts Unknown  or sign up for Amazon Prime here

Planet earth.

If you want to luxuriate in our planet's impossibly stunning natural beauty, you're going to want to indulge in a marathon watching of both Planet Earth (2006) and its sequel, Planet Earth II (2017).

With meditative — even hypnotic — narration by Sir David Attenborough, and jaw-dropping cinematography, the nature documentaries take viewers on a tour of earth's plants and animals by environment — think mountains, jungles, caves, deserts, grasslands, oceans — and in the sequel, cities.

When the news is too much to bear, this is what I watch for a dash of mindfulness and gratitude for our planet's beauty and bounty.

Stream Planet Earth and Planet Earth II or sign up for Amazon Prime here

This is the nature documentary I watch when I have a bit more stomach for a serious tone. Our Planet explores human impact on the natural environment. And although those messages might be tough to take sometimes, Our Planet stunningly depicts a world of such miraculous order and beauty, we must work to protect it at all costs. The series reflects on ways to do that, and it can be a meaningful practice during quarantine in the time of crisis on another front.

The Netflix original documentary series is a collaboration between World Wildlife Federation, Netflix, and Silverback Films, and has won two Emmys. Episodes include sweeping views and climate change commentary on areas as frozen worlds, jungles, the high seas, fresh water, jungles, coastal seas, forests, and more. Oh, and yes — if you like David Attenborough, you'll love him as narrator here too.

Stream Our Planet on Netflix

Anthony bourdain no reservations.

Yes, he deserves two slots on this list, for before there was Parts Unknown on CNN, there was Anthony Bourdain's Emmy-winning No Reservations on the Travel Channel.

It ran nine seasons between 2005 and 2012 and in this earlier series, the chef and author exhibits his signature critical eye, literary voice, zest for life and travel, and intense empathy toward other humans.

In seasons seven and eight, available for streaming now (a total of 30 episodes), Bourdain swims with bluefin tuna off the Croatian coast, takes a boozy tour of the world's only pub tram in Finland, tears through the California high desert in a classic car, ventures deep into Brazil's Amazon for a prehistoric delicacy, and leads us on many other delicious adventures.

It's the perfect balm if you're missing both travel and the brilliant Bourdain, the intoxicatingly charismatic host who had the best job in the world.

Stream No Reservations or sign up for Hulu here

Rick steves' europe.

Along with Bourdain, Rick Steves is among the most quintessential travel hosts. But unlike Bourdain, Steves lulls the viewer into a peaceful, carefree state, where he is the calm-voiced, judgment-free guide. And we are more than happy to follow along on cobblestone paths and through fragrant markets.

Since the 1970s, Steves has been leading tours to Europe, and making shows about them since the '80s. His mastery and laid back approach sets the tone for historic and cultural adventures in Rick Steves' Europe, with 10 seasons available for streaming.

Make a bowl of popcorn and set out for European festivals, ancient Rome, or historic London. Plus, Steves has some episodes devoted to sharing tips for planning, packing, and other travel skills, so you'll be ready to get going as soon as it's safe.

Stream Rick Steves' Europe or sign up for Hulu here

Amazing hotels: life beyond the lobby.

If you love amazing hotels (guilty, that's why I review them here ) and you'd love to spend some quarantine time drooling over some of the world's absolute finest, and mentally bookmarking them for later, this one is for you.

In this sleek series, restaurant critic Giles Coren and chef Monica Galetti visit some of the world's most over-the-top properties to experience the way they create the ultra-luxurious, even supernatural seeming, guest experience. They also spend time getting to know employees and explore their personal lives outside work.

Episodes include looks inside Sweden's Icehotel , Canada's Fogo Island Inn , Kenya's Giraffe Manor , Singapore's Marina Bay Sands , Ecuador's Mashpi Lodge , and Morocco's Royal Mansour Marrakech . That last one I saw only after I visited the property located within Marrakech's medina. I wish I'd seen it first so I had known about the wild machinations going on literally underneath my feet in subterranean employee channels meant to keep guests fully insulated from the staff's monumental efforts.

Watch Amazing Hotels on YouTubeTV

Chef's table.

There are now six seasons of this Emmy-nominated series, which goes around the world to get deep with chefs who are putting their own unique spins on highly elevated gourmet food and desserts in their corners of the globe.

Yes, the travelogue component is incredible and wanderlust worthy. But if you're skeptical of the whole food-is-art notion, prepare to be convinced — and have your mind blown by the gorgeous cinematography that presents food every bit like museum-worthy masterpieces.

Dominque Crenn of San Francisco's Atelier Crenn; Virgilio Martínez, the owner of Peru's Central restaurant; Tuscan butcher Dario Cecchini; and Southern food chef Macadam Bailey are among the featured personalities. 

Stream Chef's Table on Netflix

Ken burns: the national parks — america's best idea.

Yes, I'm a little jittery these days. (You too?) But even under normal circumstances, Ken Burns' whole approach to documentary filmmaking soothes me: the voice, the panning over still photos.

This six-part, 12-hour documentary series by Burns and his longtime colleague Dayton Duncan took more than six years to film and covers all the individuals — soldiers, scientists, artist, entrepreneurs, and more — who devoted themselves to preserving precious parkland around the country.

I covered the premiere of this series over a decade ago at a party at LA's Paramount Ranch hosted by the great California travel personality Huell Howser. Howser has since died and the ranch burned in the Woolsey Fire. All of this further reminds me of the fragility of people and places, and the importance of being present in a given moment — both things I intend to keep in mind when travel resumes.

Plus, if you ever thought national parks were ho-hum domestic travel ideas compared to far-flung destinations, this documentary will have you thinking differently — if quarantine life hadn't already done that.

Stream The National Parks or sign up for Amazon Prime here

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34 Best travel TV Shows to Binge watch this year!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Are you looking for some amazing travel TV shows to feed your wanderlust?

There is nothing better than watching inspiring travel TV shows when you don’t get to travel. They are entertaining, helpful to plan your travels and open your mind (and heart) to new places.

I absolutely love watching travel shows on TV. While it’s true that I prefer doing the actual travelling, I’m like everybody else and I also enjoy staying at home and dreaming of my next destinations.

I spend a lot of time watching travel shows and find it to be not just entertaining, but enlightening!

Sometimes you will discover underrated places that you would have never thought of going. And that’s the great thing about it, you don’t only get to learn about the places you want to go. You discover new places!

It’s also a very good way to learn more about the culture of these places.

As you may know, I love discovering new cultures. I find all of them so incredibly interesting. Foreign languages, food, history… there is just so much to discover. It’s so interesting and exciting!

Here are some of the best travel TV shows to watch now!

🔎 Table of Contents

1. Jack Whitehall: Travels with my father

Jack Whitehall is a famous British comedian. He is mainly known to be the posh lad in Fresh Meat (filmed in Manchester by the way 😉 ).

In real life, Jack Whitehall actually is a very posh Londoner. He comes from a wealthy family and never got the chance to go backpacking as many young people do.

On top of that, he always had quite a difficult relationship with his dad, who is 79.

This is why, in 2017, Jack Whitehall invites his dad, Michael, to go backpacking with him in Asia for a Netflix original series .

By that, I mean proper backpacking. Sleeping in hostels, taking cheap transportation, carrying a backpack… and guess what, his dad said yes!

This show is absolutely hilarious and a perfect mix between comedy and travel. If you need something to cheer you up and make you dream of foreign lands, it’s the perfect choice!

In the first season, they travel through countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

It’s so funny to watch as the dad is quite a character. He is a very posh person and obviously not quite happy about the lack of comfort.

If you like British humour, Jack and Michael Whitehall will crack you up!

The show had so much success that it was renewed for a second season in Europe . A continent that Michael famously voted to leave! In the third season, they go to America and here again, it takes a whole new dimension.

Give it a try, you will be hooked straight from the first episode! It’s so funny and arguably the best travel reality show on Netflix!

2. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

You may know Anthony Bourdain as a chef but did you know that he had a few travel shows as well?

My favourite is Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown .

This American food and travel show was produced by CNN and ran from 2013 to 2018. Sadly, Anthony died while working on a show about Strasbourg, France on the 8th of June 2018.

In this show, he travels the world and focuses on the lesser-known and underrated places.

He goes to pretty much any country you can think of and explores the culture and cuisine with locals. Very often he goes around with local guides, sometimes he also gets to meet famous personalities.

In his episode about Lyon in France, he goes for dinner with Paul Bocuse, the famous French chef.

Bourdain has this very unique way to explore the world. He sees the beauty in everything and always makes sure to be in perfect sync with local cultures.

He had this unique ability to see the world as the absolute beauty it really is and through Parts Unknown, shares his vision of the world’s cultures.

It’s not a show that I would categorise as funny, although there are some quirks. But it’s definitely the most interesting and passionate one of this list!

3. Down to Earth

Seasons:  1

This is a fun travel show / documentary to watch. It stars Zac Efron who travels around the world with wellness expert Darin Olien.

The goal of these travels is to discover more sustainable ways to live. They go everywhere around the world including Iceland, Sardinia and South America. 

Each destination highlight a specific sustainable lifestyle. For example, Sardinia in Italy is known as a blue zone. A blue zone is an area with more people reaching the age of 100 than the average.

When they get to Sardinia, they meet with locals and experts to try to understand how the way people live and eat has impacted their health.

Darin Olien is known to be big on super foods so you will also learn plenty about that when they go to South America.

All in all, this is a great show to watch as it perfectly mixes together fun and education.

4. BBC Race Across the World

Even though the Amazing Race is a concept available in almost all countries, it doesn’t exist in the UK.

But don’t you worry, the BBC thought that through and created its own program!

The concept of the Race across the world is a bit different though. In this show, you will follow 5 pairs of travellers on an epic race across the world.

In the first season, their mission is to go from London to Singapore without taking a single flight.

They are being given a bit of money, the equivalent of a flight ticket from London to Singapore ie about £1000. With this money, they have to go to Singapore without flying.

This means they have to find transport, accommodation and food for a month within that £500 budget per head. Each pair adopts a different strategy.

They take all sorts of transportation. Some hitchhike, some take the bus…

It’s a very entertaining thing to watch. You will surprise yourself trying to plan that trip as well!

5. Somebody Feed Phil

Seasons:  4

This Netflix Original is an excellent thing to watch if you love both travelling and food.

You will follow Philip Rosenthal on his trips around the world and discover the local delicacies.

There is no better way to understand the local culture than eating local dishes with the locals themselves and that’s what Phil is doing here.

From the floating markets in Thailand to the classic Mexican cantinas, he tries it all!

The best thing about this show is that you will discover so much more than just food and drinks.

He really tries to understand the local culture and why things are the way they are.

It’s also worth noting that Phil is a very happy and funny guy which makes it very pleasant to watch.

6. Instant Hotel

Instant Hotel is an Australian reality show that follows several teams of homeowners.

Each duo owns a holiday rental in Australia and will host the other contestants for a day and a night.

It’s a nice thing to watch if you love Australia or would like to visit one day.

You will get to see several states including Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Northern Territory.

Not only will you see some very famous locations such as Bondi Beach but will also get to discover some hidden gems.

There are 2 seasons available on Netflix.

7. Ugly Delicious

This is another food and travel TV show on Netflix. In this one, you will follow chef David Chang on his journey around the world.

A bit like Anthony Bourdain used to do, Chang is using food to tackle misconceptions and break down cultural barriers. 

Food is a powerful way to experience a country and learn more about the local culture. Chef Chang knows that and he shows you exactly how to!

He is also joined by guests including other chefs, artists, activists and plenty more. With him, you’ll discover many different regions including the USA, Asia and Europe.

8. Dark Tourist

In Dark Tourist, the journalist David Farrier focuses on something rarely talked about: Dark Tourism. Dark tourism is the fact of travelling to places associated with death or tragedy.

This type of travel is getting more and more popular and that’s why David Farrier goes to experience it and share with us his journey.

Dark Tourist is a very interesting show to watch as clearly, he is immersing himself into some culture and believes that you probably never even heard of before that.

Secondly, it can get quite funny and that Kiwi accent is always so cute!

Lastly, let’s be honest, it’s bloody weird! And clearly extremely interesting. I had no idea most of these things existed and although it can be creepy at times, it is quite interesting to know more about them.

9. Emily in Paris

Emily in Paris is a Netflix Original TV Show that was released in 2020. It was created by Darren Star (best known for “Sex and the City”).

It’s the story of Emily Cooper, an American girl, who moves to Paris to work in a French marketing agency.

Although it was argued that the show was full of clichés, it is still a very cool thing to watch. As a French person, I loved it!

It may not quite be representative of what a normal french life is but it highlights the most magical aspects of Paris! It will make you dream!

Emily Cooper is played by Lily Collins (British-American actress) but most of the other main characters are French which makes the show even better!

They all speak English (some with a better accent than others).

It’s a feel-good travel show that will make you want to visit Paris straight away!

And if you do, you will be able to visit Emily in Paris filming locations!

10. Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip

Looking for a travel show about Australia? Here you go!

This 2020 docuseries is one of the best things to watch before going to Australia.

Here you will see Griff Rhys Jones, a Welsh comedian, taking on an amazing train journey from Perth to Sydney and Darwin to Adelaide.

Not only is it a great way to see what the Indian Pacific and The Ghan trains are like but you will also get to learn so much about the Australian outback and culture.

You can tell that Griff is truly fascinated by Australia and he will definitely make you want to jump on a plane straight away!

11. The Kindness Diaries

The Kindness Diaries is one of the best travel programmes if you also love motorbikes (don’t worry if you don’t though, it’s fun either way but if you do like motorbikes, this is the ultimate best travel series for you).

You will follow the adventures of Leon who travels around the world on a vintage motorcycle relying solely on the kindness of strangers for accommodation, food and even petrol.

This is an extraordinary travel tv program. Not only is it interesting and fun but seeing the kindness of people all around the world is simply the most moving thing you can see.

It will leave you quite emotional on a few occasions!

12. James May: Our man in Japan

You may know James May as one of the presenters of Top Gear. But he’s got way more in store than you’d think.

In this Amazon Prime original , James May goes to Japan and experiences many aspects of Japanese Culture.

He goes to all the main cities including Tokyo and Kyoto but also some more remote places in the Japanese countryside.

James May is a typical British guy and definitely knows how to come up with the best comments!

Just picture him, in Japan, not speaking a single word of Japanese, clueless about the culture… and yet going for it!

It’s a very interesting mix of fun and culture.

If you love Japan, you will definitely like it but even if you don’t have any specific interest in this country, you will still enjoy it, I promise!

You can watch this amazing show on Amazon Prime.

Click here to check it out and get a free trial!

13. Gordon, Gino and Fred’s Road Trip

If you are looking for comedy travel shows, look no further! This one will make you laugh out loud!

This 2-season show features 3 famous chefs in the UK: Gordon Ramsay, Gino D’Acampo, and Fred Serieix.

Just picture it for a moment, we are putting together a British man, an Italian man and a French man, in a same place and make them travel the world to discover the best foods.

The result? One of the best celebrity travel shows we can think of!

It is a very cool show and you get to discover their home countries of Italy , France and Scotland but also some other destinations such as Texas or Mexico.

14. By Any Means

Seasons:  1 (6 episodes)

This one is for all the adventurers out there! Unlike some of the shows out there that are quite commercialised, this one is very pure and honest. You will be following Charley Boorman, an Irishman who decides to go from his small hometown in Ireland all the way down to Australia without flying.

Charley is not doing all of that on his own. He is with a team which makes it even more entertaining.

In the first episode, you will see how they went about planning the trip itself which was pretty challenging back in 2008. After that, the good stuff starts and you follow them on this incredible journey.

It’s a great way to learn more about hidden gems and underrated travel destinations.

Click here to watch on Amazon Prime.

15. The Grand Tour

The Grand Tour is British motoring show featuring Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May. Although it is known for cars, it’s also an excellent travel TV show to watch.

The famous trio used to present Top Gear for BBC. In 2015, BBC didn’t renew Jeremy Clarkson’s contract.

At this point, his friends decided to follow him and they signed a contract with Amazon Prime . The Grand Tour was born!

On the Grand Tour, Clarkson, Hammond and May embark the most incredible vehicles and set off to explore some of the most beautiful countries in the world!

They visit some famous places but also adventure themselves in very remote, off-the-beaten-path, locations. This includes Madagascar, Morocco, Namibia, Italy and many more!

The Grand Tour is available on Amazon Prime . There are several seasons and some specials!

Click here to watch The Grand Tour.

16. Amazing Race

The Amazing Race is an American reality TV show. I’ve watched every season of the French equivalent, Pekin Express.

As much as I would love to talk about this show, I appreciate that watching a show in french might not be of your liking!

But it’s ok because the Amazing Race is pretty much the same thing. There is an American and Canadian version.

The concept is simple. There are several teams of two racing around the world. In each episode, they have to go to a certain destination with no money.

Therefore their only option is to hitchhike and get locals to accommodate them for free.

Along the way, other missions are given to them. These can be hikes, riding… all sorts of things.

It’s the perfect show to discover many countries in a different way. The Amazing Race has it all: competition, culture, landscapes, fun… A must see!

And there are over 30 seasons available so plenty to binge-watch!

Click here to watch the Amazing Race.

17. Travel Man

If you are looking for another funny British travel show, Travel Man is for you!

In this channel 4 show, the host Richard Ayoade explores all major cities around the world. The goal? Visiting as many tourist spots in the minimum amount of time.

When I say that, don’t get me wrong. He is very well organised and makes sure to go on a guided tour most of the time.

This means he actually embeds himself very well in the culture of the place he is visiting.

But where loads of travel shows focus on hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Travel Man does the opposite. He goes for the most famous landmarks!

And it’s a good thing because even though these places are touristy, they are famous for a reason!

Richard Ayoade is a very funny man and will make you laugh out loud quite a few times!

Somehow, he always does his best not to enjoy himself which makes the whole show absolutely hilarious!

This show is perfect if you are planning city breaks or are into architecture.

If you are an adventure and after nature discovery, it won’t be what you are looking for.

Click here to watch Travel Man.

18. Anthony Bourdain: The Layover

The late Anthony Bourdain was famous as a celebrity chef. But he gained an army of new fans with his excellent travel series, Anthony Bourdain: The Layover .

Showcasing Bourdain’s swift visits to various cities around the world, the show aired on the Travel Channel from 2011 to 2013.

It focused on how to make the most of a short layover or brief stopover in a city.

Each episode featured Bourdain spending 24 to 48 hours in a featured city, providing viewers with a fast-paced, no-nonsense guide to experiencing the best food, culture and attractions a place had to offer.

He often sought the help of local experts and friends, including chefs and celebrities, to uncover hidden gems and popular hotspots.

Visiting everywhere from New York City to Istanbul, the show is renowned for Bourdain’s candid and unfiltered commentary, his willingness to try exotic and unconventional dishes and his deep appreciation for the diverse cultures he encountered.

19. All Joanna Lumley’s Shows

Joanna Lumley is a famous British actress. You may know her from  The New Avengers  or more recently  The Wolf of Wall Street.

She is also well known for her travel documentaries.

She has done quite a few of them over the years and they are all fantastic things to watch. The most recent one was released in 2020 and is called Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti.

If you love the Caribbean and want to learn more about this part of the world, watching Joanna Lumley’s TV show will be the perfect thing to do.

It is considered a documentary but like most travel shows, it’s quite funny on top of being interesting.

In this one, she goes to Cuban and Haiti. Local culture, quirky situations, funny humour… it has it all!

You should also consider watching the other ones as they are all fantastic:

• Joanna Lumley’s Nile
• Joanna Lumley’s Japan
• Joanna Lumley’s Trans-Siberian Adventure
• Joanna Lumley’s Unseen Adventures
• Joanna Lumley’s Greek Odyssey
• Joanna Lumley’s India
• Joanna Lumley’s Home Sweet Home: Travels in My Own Land
• Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road Adventure
• Joanna Lumley’s Postcards

Most of them are available on Amazon Prime as well as ITV Hub and BBC Select.

20. Bradley Walsh & Son: Breaking Dad

This one is very similar to Jack Whitehall Travels with my father. On paper at least.

In this case, the dad is the celebrity. Bradley Walsh is a famous British comedian and presenter. If he never particularly wanted to travel, his 21-year old son, Barney, decided otherwise!

Together they go on a road trip in America in an RV. The series started in 2019 and can be watched on Amazon . There are 2 seasons, 10 episodes in total.

In this case, they don’t go for a budget-travel version. They keep their comfort but try very unexpected activities in the States.

It’s more about the contact with the locals which is quite interesting.

As you would expect from the Walsh’s, it’s also very funny!

They go from the Florida Keys up to Georgia. So if you are interested in knowing more about Florida and the east coast states, this one’s for you!

You can watch this amazing show on  ITV (eligible for a free trial as well!).

21. An Idiot Abroad

An Idiot Abroad is one the quirkiest travel show that you can find.

Here is the plot: the main person, Karl Pilkington has never wanted to travel and will be forced to.

Basically, at the beginning of the episode, Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant (who created the show) send Karl abroad with instructions. They put together a bucket list and he has to do everything.

It’s so funny! I promise, this British show will crack you up!

The thing that makes it so entertaining is the fact that Karl Pilkington has no interest in travelling and ends up doing all these things while the other two stay in the UK!

If you want to have a good laugh, An Idiot Abroad is the way to go!

22. The Americas with Simon Reeve

If you are looking for the best travel shows on BBC iplayer, this one is for you!

It features Simon Reeve, a famous British adventurer, exploring the Americas.

The first season includes 5 episodes during which you discover some of the most famous places in the Americas such as Machu Picchu in Peru but also some very remote places in the Amazon rainforest.

If you’d like to learn more about Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Paraguay, this is the travel show for you.

There is a lot to love about the Americas. Between the ancient Maya heritage and the beautiful national parks in the USA, there is so much to discover.

That’s exactly what you will do if you want “The Americas with Simon Reeve”.

You will follow him on his incredible journey and learn more about the local culture as well as sustainable ways to live. From planting trees in Costa Rica to hiking the Rocky Mountains, this is the perfect mix between adventure, culture and sustainability.

This TV show was produced by BBC and available on BBC iPlayer. 

23. Men in Kilts

If you’d love to learn more about Scotland , then Men in Kilts is the perfect travel show for you!

Here you will follow Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish, the stars of Outlander, around Scotland and discover plenty about the local culture.

This includes whisky, bagpipes and of course, stunning landscapes.

Not only is it a very interesting show to watch but the hosts are so funny and it’s so great to see them in another context than Outlander.

24. Long Way Up

Premiering in 2020, Long Way Up is part of the Long Way series of documentary travel TV shows, which follows motorcycle journeys led by longtime actors and friends Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor.

In Long Way Up , Charley and Ewan embark on an epic adventure, riding electric Harley Davidson LiveWire motorbikes from the southern tip of South America in Argentina to Los Angeles in the USA.

The journey covers over 13,000 miles and 13 countries, taking them through Chile, Bolivia, Peru , Ecuador, Colombia, Central America and Mexico between their start and finish points.

Some of the most memorable moments include navigating challenging terrains like the Atacama Desert and the Andes Mountains, dealing with extreme weather conditions, and experiencing the cultural diversity of the countries they visit.

The duo also encounter unexpected obstacles, like charging their electric motorcycles in remote locations with limited infrastructure, which adds an extra layer of adventure to their trip.

25. Booze Traveler

Booze Traveler was a popular Travel Channel television series from 2014 to 2018. Its host was the effervescent Jack Maxwell – a well-known Boston-born actor and television personality.

Each episode featured Maxwell embarking on a worldwide adventure to learn about different cultures through their alcoholic beverages and drinking customs.

The series took viewers to various destinations, including Mexico, India, Japan, Italy, and South Africa.

In each place, Maxwell immersed himself in local customs, tried traditional drinks and interacted with the locals to understand the importance of alcohol in their culture better.

In doing this, he often tried unique and sometimes unusual alcoholic drinks, such as snake wine in Vietnam and fermented mare’s milk in Mongolia.

Overall, the show explored the cultural and historical significance of alcohol, revealing how it has shaped societies and brought people together.

Sadly, the show was not renewed for a fifth series because Maxwell was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma while filming the last few episodes of this travel series.

26. Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby

Considered one of the best travel TV series out of the UK, Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby debuted in 2017 and quickly became popular amongst those who aspire to the finer things in life.

Giles Coren, a British food and travel writer and Monica Galetti, a renowned chef and restaurant critic, host the show.

The series explores some of the world’s most unique and luxurious hotels, delving beyond their opulent lobbies to uncover the behind-the-scenes operations and extraordinary experiences they offer.

In each episode, Coren and Galetti visit a different exceptional hotel, often located in stunning and remote locations.

They meet with the staff, from chefs to concierges, to understand the craftsmanship, innovation and dedication required to maintain these extraordinary establishments.

The show highlights the environmental and sustainability efforts of these hotels where possible.

Over the years, Amazing Hotels has featured various destinations, including the Fogo Island Inn in Canada, the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, the Giraffe Manor in Kenya and the Treehotel in Sweden.

27. Iain Robertson Rambles

If you watch Iain Robertson Rambles , you’ll see one of the most fascinating documentary travel TV shows ever.

As its name suggests, this captivating series is hosted by Iain Robertson, a Scottish presenter and broadcaster widely recognised for his love for nature and the outdoors.

The show focuses on Robertson’s expeditions through some of Scotland’s most picturesque and remote terrains and the UK.

During each episode, viewers accompany Robertson on his long walks and hikes across breathtaking landscapes.

The show offers a unique blend of travelogue, natural history, and personal storytelling.

Robertson’s passion for the outdoors and his knowledge of wildlife and environmental conservation are central to the series.

Throughout the series, Iain Robertson explores various destinations in Scotland and the UK, including the rugged Highlands , the serene islands of the Hebrides, and the lush woodlands of Wales.

Whilst watching him do this, viewers feel like they are alongside him – trekking through the picturesque landscapes he explores.

28. The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan

If you are looking for funny travel shows, look no further than The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan .

The show, a travel documentary series starring the British comedian, first aired in 2018.

It follows Romesh as he embarks on journeys to various destinations worldwide, often focusing on places considered off the beaten path or challenging for tourists.

Throughout the series, Romesh immerses himself in the local cultures and traditions of the places he visits.

He often seeks unique and authentic experiences, interacting with locals and trying his hand at their customs and activities.

Some places he visits include Ethiopia, Haiti, Albania, Zimbabwe, Mongolia, and Bosnia – locations known for their rich history, distinctive cultures, and, in some cases, reputations for being less frequented by mainstream travellers.

As Romesh offers humorous and self-deprecating commentary while navigating unfamiliar and sometimes challenging situations, the show provides a fresh perspective on travel.

His witty observations and genuine reactions to the places he goes to make for entertaining viewing. 

29. Passport to Europe with Samantha Brown

Passport to Europe with Samantha Brown is one of several TV travel shows that hit our screens from the Travel Channel.

The show ran from 2004 to 2006 and was hosted by the American television personality and travel expert known for her engaging and relatable approach to travel.

In the series, Samantha Brown explores various European destinations, providing viewers with insider tips, cultural insights and travel recommendations.

She regularly immersed herself in the local culture, trying regional foods, experiencing traditions, and interacting with locals.

Some of the destinations she went to included Paris, Rome, Venice, London, Vienna and Barcelona.

The show captures each location’s iconic landmarks, historical sites and vibrant neighbourhoods while highlighting their unique charms during her visits.

It was known for dishing out practical travel advice and inspirational exploration of European cities and cultures.

It encouraged viewers to embrace the adventure of travel and discover the beauty and diversity of Europe’s many destinations.

30. Globe Trekker

One of the longest-running TV travel shows was the incomparable Globe Trekker , which aired for 17 seasons and well over 200 episodes from 1994 to 2010.

The show features trekkers who embark on journeys to destinations worldwide, providing viewers with insights into different cultures, traditions and experiences.

Over the years, it has had a rotating cast of hosts, including Ian Wright, Megan McCormick, Zay Harding and one Bradley Cooper – who went on to achieve international fame as a Hollywood superstar.

These hosts have travelled to various destinations around the globe from the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru and the vibrant markets of Marrakech in Morocco to the serene landscapes of New Zealand and the untouched beauty of Bora Bora.

The show’s format combines travelogue-style storytelling with practical travel tips, making it entertaining and informative for viewers interested in exploring the world.

31. Conan Without Borders

For those wanting the best travel shows streaming right now, it’s hard to go past Conan Without Borders.

Hosted by the famous comedian and talk show, the show debuted in 2015.

It featured Conan travelling to various international destinations, often to engage with local cultures, traditions and humour.

Celebrity guests, friends, and local personalities join Conan O’Brien in exploring the destinations throughout the series – including former First Lady Michelle Obama, actor Jack Black and comedian Jordan Schlansky.

The show has taken viewers on hilarious and insightful journeys to destinations like Cuba, Mexico, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Italy and Ghana.

It typically blends travelogue-style segments with Conan’s trademark comedic sketches and interviews.

While watching his attempts to immerse himself in cultural practices (such as learning traditional dances or trying regional cuisine), Conan presents us with his comedic take on each destination’s unique quirks and idiosyncrasies.

In doing so, the show entertains and fosters a sense of global connection and curiosity.

32. Tales by Light

Combining breathtaking imagery, storytelling, and a profound appreciation for the planet’s wonders, Tales by Light is a must-watch travel TV series for photography enthusiasts and anyone interested in the world’s most extraordinary and untamed places.

The show is a documentary television series that delves into the world of photography and the experiences of renowned photographers as they capture compelling images from around the globe.

It explores the stories behind these captivating photographs and the photographers’ journeys to catch them.

The series has featured various acclaimed photographers, including Art Wolfe, Darren Jew and Krystle Wright, who each provide insights into their unique approach to photography. 

They usually travel to remote and exotic destinations – including the Amazon Rainforest, Antarctica, Papua New Guinea, India and the Arctic Circle – often pursuing wildlife, nature and indigenous cultures.

Overall, the show provides viewers with a visually stunning and educational experience, showcasing the photographers’ dedication to their craft and deep respect for the natural world.

33. Ed Stafford: Into the Unknown

If you have yet to see it, Ed Stafford: Into the Unknown is one of the most compelling travel-related shows you can watch.

Hosted by British adventurer and explorer Ed Stafford – known for being the first person to walk the entire length of the Amazon River – the show illustrates the spirit of human exploration and resilience.

It highlights the former British army captain’s quest for adventure by journeying to some of the world’s most remote and challenging locations.

Throughout the series, Ed Stafford travels solo to destinations like Venezuela, Mongolia, Ethiopia and Peru. He has close encounters with grizzly bears in Alaska and tracking elusive snow leopards in Mongolia.

In every episode, Stafford immerses himself in the local culture and landscapes, often relying on his survival skills to navigate the wild and unfamiliar terrains.

The show combines elements of exploration, adventure and survival as Stafford pushes himself to his physical and mental limits.

34. Expedition Unknown

Expedition Unknown, a popular adventure and travel documentary television series, premiered on the Travel Channel in 2015.

The show’s presenter is Josh Gates, an explorer and adventurer who takes viewers on a quest to uncover mysteries, legends, and secrets from around the world.

During the series, Gates travels to a wide range of famous and obscure destinations to investigate historical enigmas, treasure hunts, and unsolved mysteries.

He often collaborates with experts, historians, and local guides to gather clues and solve puzzles related to each episode’s theme.

Some places he visits include Egypt, South America, and the Caribbean, where he seeks hidden treasures and solves perplexing mysteries.

His adventures involve investigating Amelia Earhart’s disappearance, searching for Atlantis, and pursuing the elusive Yeti in the Himalayas.

Ultimately, the show is known for its blend of adventure, history and exploration, making it entertaining for viewers interested in the thrill of discovery and the fascination of uncovering the world’s hidden secrets.

How to watch travel TV shows?

There are many places where you can find travel TV shows, but these would be the best places to start! I use all of them and love them! They are very complementary!

You can create an account and start watching Netflix here. This is where you will find most of the shows about travel.

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video comes with your prime subscription. There are many things to watch on Prime and it’s very good value. You can get a free trial for Amazon Prime Video here.

BBC iplayer

BBC offers some of the best UK travel shows including Race Across the World and The Americas with Simon Reeve.

ITV channel

ITV Channel offers some amazing TV shows such as the Bradley Walsh one or Gordon, Gino and Fred Road Trip. You can get a free trial for ITV here.

Disney + / Hulu

Although these are no TV shows, I’d recommend you to watch some Disney movies . Loads of them are perfect to discover new places.

We don’t always realise it but they are very good to embed yourself into a foreign culture.

For example:

• France: Aristocats
• UK: Mary Poppins
• China: Mulan

I thought I’d put it in there as clearly, Disney is always a good idea !

Channel 4 is a free-to-air television channel in the UK. You can go to their websites and watch everything for free.

There are some ads but they are pretty short.

I hope you will enjoy these amazing travel shows! If you have any recommendations, please share them in the comments as I would love to discover more myself!

You may also be interested in:

• Best books about France and the French
• Harry Potter Things to do in NYC
• Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in the USA
• Magical Emily In Paris Filming Locations you can actually visit in France

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

15 Best Travel Vloggers on YouTube to Follow

Written By: Christine Ka'aloa

Digital Nomads

Updated On: June 3, 2023

Living your passion for travel is one thing, but filming yourself doing it daily to weekly for binge watching audiences on YouTube is another! Yet, the list of travel vloggers on YouTube grows as storytelling techniques of its creators evolve to keep you tuned in.

From storytelling editing, daily vlogging, cinematic flair, sexy drone shots, and 360 viewing, these travel YouTubers are committed to pumping out travel inspiration on a regularly programmed basis.

Enjoy this list of inspiring Youtube channels to find great travel content and travel experiences.

Table of Contents

Best Travel Vloggers

Christine chose some great travel vlogs and we don’t want to mess with her, list, but when you are done here, check out some other amazing travel YouTubers! These travel personalities are not only travel hosts, they are their own travel show! We made our own list of best travel vloggers too !

1. Fun for Louis

Louis Cole initially started out enthralling (and grossing out) viewers with his adventurous ability to eat every odd delicacy that was dead or alive.

Today, this U.K. travel vlogger has taken to daily vlogs of his life, inspiring viewers to live the adventure while travelling the world.

A well-loved travel vlog hero of YouTube, not only does he make binge-watching addictive, but he incorporates 360-degree video and has his fans introduce his videos.

Schedule : Daily

2. Mr Ben Brown

Mr. Ben Brown is mostly known as a YouTube vlogger. But he travels a bit and his Visual Vibes series showcases some seriously stunning travel cinematography, which will leave you breathless.

An expert storyteller, his vlogs are partly filmed from his perspective, as if you’re inside his head.

Whether skiing, motorbiking or hiking, you’ll feel like you’re moving vicariously with him, as he traipses around the world to meet up with his posse of YouTuber friends.

Ben joined YouTube in 2006 definitely making him one of the older travel vloggers (at least by channel age) out there.

• Devon Supertamp is very similar and we have him listed on our choices for best travel channels.

Schedule: Daily .

3. Vagabrothers

The Vagabrothers are the wacky boys of the travel vlogging world.

As charismatic travel hosts revving you for the flight,  they offer a cultural soft side into the joys of travelling.

Their travel videos incorporate fun shooting styles, collaborations with other YouTubers, destination guides focused on culture, and lethal drone shots.

Schedule :  Tuesdays

4. Hey Nadine

As the reigning top female travel vlogs on YouTube, Nadine Sykora knows what YouTube audiences want.

As Hey Nadine , she infuses her travel lifestyle channel with a creative flair of fashion, fun, food and entertainment.

From travel tips, to “ What I Eat in a Day in. ..” ,… to playful collaborations with other travel YouTubers, Nadine’s channel drums up an addiction to seeing just what new video she puts out next.

Schedule : Twice a week

5. Migrationology

Would you travel for food? Favorite food vlogger and travel YouTuber Mark Weins does, and boy does he!

A travel and food blog, Migrationology has hit gastronomical stardom on YouTube, making Mark the number one ‘foodie guy’ to both, watch and read.

Mark is the ultimate digital nomad!

He shares his passion for travel by delivering each country through mouth-watering morsels.

You’ll find DIY city guides and of course, lots and lots of food videos!

Schedule: Sundays and Wednesdays.

6. Wolters World

Mark of Woltersworld is my favorite ‘Loves & Hates Travel Guy’, sharing his unchained opinion on what travelers will love, hate and be shocked with about each city.

He tells it like it is and his honesty won’t take away your excitement in experiencing the place for yourself.

His videos are highly informative insights, which crack the travel code of each country.

Schedule: Wednesdays and Saturdays

7. Hopscotch the Globe

Kristin Sarah merges her acting chops with her love for travel in Hopscotch the Globe .

She’s like that fun travel bestie who’s not afraid to be a little silly. Her channel incorporates vlogging with cultural parodies and travel inspired DIY recipes.

Today, she shares her channel spotlight with her husband Siya; together, these travel partners in crime hop around the globe, creating weekly entertainment.

They’ve also recently added a baby drone into their picture!

Schedule : Weekly

8. Psychotraveller

If twenty-something backpacking is your thing, check out Psychotraveller .

Ally dishes backpacking travel tips, vlogs and travel budget information, all with a dose of humor.

Best of all, her favorite filming studio is often a hostel room!

Schedule: Weekly.

9. GRRRL TRAVELER

Does traveling alone freak you out? Christine Kaaloa of GRRRL TRAVELER takes you inside the adventurous world of solo travel and shows you how she survives it.

Experiencing culture shock and filming it , isn’t easy, but Christine finds ways to turn her encounters of taxi scams, Asian squat toilets, airport layovers and getting sick abroad, into travel survival tips to walk away with !

A solo travel blogger, she films and blogs travel tips and city and food travel guides, while playing with video storytelling styles.

Schedule: Fridays or Saturdays.

10.  Sonia’s Travels

Sonia is your female travel MacGyver. From how to pack your makeup to product reviews and how to score a deal on a hotel, she’s got slick tips to make you a savvy traveler.

Her tips are usually around 2-3 minutes, which make her videos perfect to watch with your morning coffee.

Until then, she has hundreds of travel tip videos to keep your travels well-groomed.

Schedule: On hiatus. Let’s hope she comes back.

11.  The Planet D

Dave and Deb of The Planet D , not only live the dream of travel, but they also visit some of the most exotic places that most of us can only dream about!

This zany travel-adventure couple have blogged about adventure travel for the past 10 years, and now they’re on YouTube too, inspiring each other (and others) to take a passion for adventure to the next level. Making the list as one of the couple travel vloggers to watch.

From polar ice plunges in Antarctica to riding the fastest zipline or ballooning over the Masai Mara, their channel covers a bucket list of activities to try when you’re looking to leave your comfort zone.

Schedule: Saturdays.

Expats & Nomads: Travel Youtubers Hitting the Road

12.  gone with the wynns.

Ever think of packing up your family life and hitting the road in an RV?

Nikki and Jason of Gone with the Wynns sold it all and packed it up to hit the highway.

From composting toilets to solar powering an RV (okay, not your everyday travel story), they’ve transformed the concept of an RV travel lifestyle for YouTube.

Their videos are well-shot and occasionally, filmed like a sexy commercial (okay, not your every day RV travel video).

Recently, they’ve made a rather new change in their lives, by trading in their RV for a sailboat!

Schedule : Weekly.

13. Samuel & Audrey

You may know Samuel and Audrey as their travel blogging aliases, Nomadic Samuel and That Backpacker .

As former ex-Korea expats, this adorable travel geek couple are on an indefinite road between expat life and nomadism.

Their channel is prolific with destination guides and food taste tests.

For audiences, who want to get their binge watching on without taking a break, they are also known to occasionally have long format videos.

Schedule: 1-2 times a week.

14. 8 Miles from Home

Inspiring us to take our dream lifestyle (and dog) abroad is 8 Miles from Home .

Sacha and Jymael are British photographers turn expat vloggers, documenting their life in Thailand.

Their vlogs are cinematic video diaries, occasionally incorporate dazzling special FX.

Recently they announced their new adventure~ a move to Portugal and a baby!

15. The Food Ranger

If you love Asian food, Trevor is The Food Ranger of Asia. An expat in Sichuan, China, he chomps and slurps some of the best Chinese cuisine (and uh, some pretty obscure foods too).

Commendable is his ability to upload regular videos while staying under China’s banned radar (YouTube and Google are banned in China).

He’s quickly growing a following as a new foodie channel to watch.

Schedule: Saturdays

How the best travel vloggers were chosen:

Like all lists, people will wonder why they’re not on it. I’m positive I missed some good ones, but this is very loose criteria I’d be using if I were hired to cast, produce or pitch a TV show. Creators did not need to meet all criteria, but most. – Programming: Weekly dedication, quality, storytelling & individual style execution – Audience: Niche, loyalty, & YouTube friendly – Blog worthy and/or binge worthy – Does it bring a new spin to the term “travel video” or “travel show” – Channel Personality/Talent: brand recognition, hosting & entertainment value

Do you have favourite travel vlogger you love on YouTube? Introduce us to them in the comments below!

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That’s a subjective question. If you go by subscribers it is Devon Supertramp or Fun for Louis on this list. Drew Binskey is definitely the most successful travel vlogger out there right now.

Mark Weins t ops the list as the best food travel vlogger. He takes you on a culinary journey around the world.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Christine Ka'aloa

Christine Ka'aloa is a freelance television producer , camera operator and travel blogger/YouTuber. She runs GRRRL TRAVELER, where she writes about solo travel, food and travel inspiration. Follow Christine at grrltraveler / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / YouTube

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The Best Travel Shows You Can Stream Right Now

By Meredith Carey

Most of us can't be on the road 365 days a year, but that doesn't mean we have to stop exploring. With some of the best travel shows streaming on Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon, we have the world at our fingertips, with episodes that take us from markets in Mexico to hawker stalls in Singapore to the farthest reaches of the Arctic, back home to BBQ joints in Charleston. Whether you'd rather follow the late Anthony Bourdain, Sir David Attenborough, David Chang, Samin Nosrat , Samantha Brown , Ewan McGregor, or the Fab Five along the way is up to you. Here, find some of our favorite travel shows available to stream right now (fictional and not), involving journeys by land, air, and sea—and lots and lots of eating.

This gallery was last published in March 2020. It has been updated with new information. All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Taste the Nation

With international travel largely on hold, there's no better time to explore our own backyard—which is exactly what host Padma Lakshmi did on her new Hulu show Taste the Nation . The show's first season, released in June, follows the Top Chef host and author as she quite literally tastes the nation , stopping at restaurants around the U.S. to sample the foods of a variety of Indigenous and immigrant groups. Expect to see some familiar faces, like comedian Ali Wong and spearfisher Kimi Werner , along the way. 

Watch now: Free with a Hulu subscription ( sign up for Hulu here )

Planet Earth and Planet Earth II

We had to wait 10 years between the debut of Planet Earth , a groundbreaking natural history show narrated by Sir David Attenborough, and its sequel Planet Earth II , but it was worth it. The first season, which focus on a specific biome and the flora and fauna that live there in each episode, spotlights smooth coated otters in Southeast Asia, Tibetan foxes, critically endangered Ethiopian ibex, and blue whales, among so many others. Our two favorite episodes, though, come from part II. In the sixth episode, the high-def cameras turn to cities to show how leopards in Mumbai, monkeys in Jodhpur, and catfish in southern France live alongside humans. And in what may be the most heart-racing episode of nature television, the islands episode of Planet Earth II follows a lone iguana racing against time—and a horde of snakes. 

Watch Planet Earth now: $3 per episode, $25 per season; amazon.com

Watch Planet Earth II now: $3 per episode, $20 per season; amazon.com

Long Way Up

Believe it or not, actor Ewan McGregor has been in the travel show business for some 16 years. It all started with Long Way Round , a 2004 series that followed McGregor and his friend Charley Boorman on a motorcycle journey from London through Europe, Asia—and then after a flight to Alaska—Canada, and the U.S. all the way to New York City. The show was followed by 2007's Long Way Down, which took the duo from Scotland to South Africa, on motorcycles once again. Now, they've turned their bikes (electric this time) towards South and Central America, with the latest iteration following the duo some 13,000 miles from Ushuaia, Argentina, on the continent's southernmost tip, to L.A. As usual, hijinks, pitfalls, and stunning scenery are all on view. Neither of the earlier shows are available to stream in the U.S. currently (though you can find them on Apple TV+ in the U.K.), but Long Way Up is an Apple TV+ original and on view for all. 

Watch now: Free with an Apple TV+ subscription ( sign up for Apple TV+ here )

Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat

Be sure to watch this show on a full stomach, or you'll be pausing to bake focaccia or cook tahdig along with affable host and Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat cookbook author Samin Nosrat. In the four-part show, Nosrat travels the world, making stops in Mexico, Japan, Italy, and her home in California, to discover the properties of each of the show's title elements. There's cheese. There's olive oil. There's miso. There are tortillas. There's salsa. And just like that we're hungry again. (FYI, she's as delightful in person as she is on screen—and joined us for a Women Who Travel podcast episode soon after the show premiered.) Watch now: Free with a Netflix subscription ( sign up for Netflix here )

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

If you're familiar with Anthony Bourdian's The Layover, then the premise of British comedian Richard Ayoade's Travel Man will seem quite familiar. The goofy show follows the comic and primarily English celebrity friends as they galavant around cities like Helsinki, Miami, and Hong Kong over the course of 48 hours. If you're a Great British Bake Off fan, start with Ayoade's trip to Paris with original GBBO host Mel Giedroyc or the season two episode featuring current host Noel Fielding in Copenhagen . Other familiar faces include Paul Rudd in Helsinki and Bridesmaids' Chris O'Dowd in Vienna.

Somebody Feed Phil

This Netflix original follows host Phil Rosenthal, the creator of Everybody Loves Raymond , as he eats his way through cities like Bangkok , Lisbon, Mexico City , New Orleans ,   Buenos Aires , Cape Town, and Dublin. The hyper-positive show was called "impossibly optimistic," by former Traveler editor Paul Brady, who spoke with Rosenthal before the first season's premiere in 2018. The fourth season, out October 30, takes Rosenthal from Rio de Janeiro to the Mississippi Delta and the islands of Hawaii to eat even more delicious grub.  Watch now: Free with a Netflix subscription ( sign up for Netflix here )

Parts Unknown

You simply cannot have a list of the best travel shows and not feature the late Anthony Bourdain. In fact, he's on our list more than once. In Parts Unknown , the chef and travel personality circled the world many times over, in search of music, culture, humor, history, and—of course—really good food. Over 12 seasons (the last aired posthumously), Bourdain visited the indigenous Andes with Eric Ripert, the Sochi Winter Olympics, the Mississippi Delta, and, most famously, Hanoi with then-president Barack Obama. (That's season eight, episode two, if you want to jump right to it.) 

Watch now: $3 per episode, or $10 per season; amazon.com

Technically, Netflix's original show Connected is a science show, but that doesn't mean it isn't filled with travel. Plus, host Latif Nasser told us earlier this year that the show was built in the footsteps of Bourdain's Parts Unknown and No Reservations (with a dash of Bill Nye thrown inn). The show speaks to how the world is interconnected—like how Delaware's birds can offer clues about the Gulf's hurricane season or how sand from the Sahara impacts the Amazon. Throughout, you'll follow Nasser as he hopscotches around the world to speak with scientists to find out more. 

Watch now: Free with a Netflix subscription ( sign up for Netflix here )

Street Food

Made by the same folks behind Chef's Table (spoiler: it's also on this list), this show moves away from formal restaurant kitchens and onto the streets, for a guide to some of the world's best curbside meals and snacks . The show's first season is all about Asia, traveling to nine different countries to meet the people behind the food, like Jay Fai from Bangkok's Raan Jay Fai , a Michelin-starred street stall serving up tom yum soup, and Truoc (pictured left), who serves a variety of snail dishes in Ho Chi Minh City . The second season, which hit Netflix in July, zeroes in on Latin America, with stops at Doña Vale's in Oaxaca for memelas and Las Chicas de las Tres food stall in Buenos Aires, run by chef Pato Rodriguez. 

Lost Cities With Albert Lin

In this National Geographic –produced show, explorer and scientist Albert Lin tracks down some of the world's most famous lost cities. We're talking buried Knights Templar caves in Israel, El Dorado in the jungles of Colombia, and ancient, forgotten island cities in Micronesia. Along the way, he speaks with archaeologists, historians, and other experts to discover the origins of the legends and, in turn, the reality of those places today. 

Watch now: Free with a Disney+ subscription ( sign up for Disney+ here )

Ugly Delicious

The second season of the David Chang –hosted Netflix series debuted in March 2020, taking viewers from Istanbul (pictured), to Tokyo , to Sydney , to… Outback Steakhouse? Along the way, he tackles balancing parenthood with restaurant life, cooks with Top Chef 's Padma Lakshmi , rubs elbows with comedians like Nick Kroll and Aziz Ansari, and gets a lesson in not calling all Indian food curries from Traveler contributor Priya Krishna . (If you want more Chang, try your hand at a recipe from his Momofuku cookbook, or watch Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner , also on Netlfix, where he joins one famous friend on a food tour of a city, like Chrissy Teigen in Marrakech.) 

Produced by Vice , this show is about the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. In it, actor Elliot Page and their film director friend Ian Daniel travel to learn about what it's like to be LGBTQ+ around the world. They meet with two-spirit Native Americans, head to ballroom scenes in New York City, and visit the gay bars of Tokyo to dive deep into the vibrant gay and queer culture. But the duo also spends time in Rio de Janeiro, Jamaica, and Ukraine, speaking with LGBTQ+ locals to learn about the discrimination and threats they face just by existing. Expect tears, both happy and sad. 

Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted

Gordon Ramsey is involved, so of course this cooking and travel show is extreme. In the National Geographic –produced series, the Hell's Kitchen chef goes out of his element—and out of the kitchen—to learn cooking tips and tricks from locals in unusual locales, culminating in a cook-off of sorts to show off what he's picked up. Here, he heads to Peru's Sacred Valley to learn high altitude cooking, cooks seal with a Tlingit elder in Alaska , and learns about Berber food culture in Morocco. 

Carmen Sandiego

Many of us got our first lesson in geography from this trench coat–wearing master thief, and today's kids can too, thanks to the Netflix reboot of this animated series. This high-flying, Robin Hood–style caper takes kids (and parents) with Sandiego as she jet sets between Rio de Janeiro , Matsumoto in Japan, Amsterdam, Mumbai, and more. There are three seasons available and plenty of educational value here for mapheads—plus pretty stellar animation. This year, an interactive choose-you-own-adventure style show, called Carmen Sandiego: To Steal or Not to Steal, came to Netflix and provides endless entertainment as Sandiego fights off the Villains International League of Evil (V.I.L.E.), with your (kid's) help. Watch now: Free with a Netflix subscription ( sign up for Netflix here )

If Planet Earth and Planet Earth II weren't enough Attenborough for your liking, get your fix on Netflix, thanks to Our Planet . This docuseries, made by the creators of Planet Earth in collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund and narrated by Attenborough, is almost a mix of the two, taking armchair travelers from the North American grasslands and the Everglades to the Arctic tundra and deepest parts of our oceans. Once you're done with the nine 50-minute episodes, switch over to Our Planet: Behind the Scenes to see how the 600-person crew filmed the series. Watch now: Free with a Netflix subscription ( sign up for Netflix here )

No Reservations

If you want even more Bourdain, Hulu has you covered with No Reservations and The Layover, two of his travel shows that preceded Parts Unknown . In No Reservations, Bourdain takes us to both familiar—Maine, Prague, the Philippines—and unfamiliar—Kurdistan, Mozambique, and deep into the Amazon—corners and kitchens of our world, introducing us to new foods, cultures, and personalities over nine seasons. The Layover takes that same premise, but shortens the time line drastically, knocking down Bourdain's time to explore to just 24 to 48 hours. Both are must-sees—it's Bourdain after all. 

Chef's Table: BBQ

While you can watch some of world’s most extraordinary chefs (like Dominque Crenn ; Peruvian Virgilio Martínez , the owner of Lima's Central restaurant; and Swede Magnus Nilsson ) as they create impossibly complicated dishes in the original Chef's Table, we've become partial to its latest iteration, which is all about barbecue. The Netflix original docuseries follows pitmasters like Tootsie Tomanetz—the 85-year-old spitfire pictured above who minds the brisket and sausage at Snow's, outside of Austin—and Rodney Scott, known for his Low Country–style pulled pork and ribs. But the show doesn't stick to the American South. You'll head to Rosalia Chay Chuc's Yucatán home and visit the grills of Lennox Hastie in Sydney, too.  Watch now: Free with a Netflix subscription ( sign up for Netflix here )

Travels with My Father

The first season of this Netflix original, which came out in 2017, follows British stand-up comedian Jack Whitehall and his father, Michael, across Southeast Asia, tracking the duo as they finish the gap year Jack never got to complete, just a few years late (eight, to be exact). It's everything you'd expect: a Thai full moon party and, of course, a trip to Cambodia's Angkor Wat, but the moments in between are what make the show really worth watching. Now, in the three seasons that have followed, the father-son pair have road tripped through Transylvania , visited Chernobyl , and gotten into drag with Sydney queens. Needless to say, it's a romp.  Watch now: Free with a Netflix subscription ( sign up for Netflix here )

Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories

Set in a tiny Tokyo diner that's only open from midnight to 7 a.m., the fictional show follows the Midnight Diner's owner and clientele as they share their trials and joys, all while eating whatever the owner, called Master, dishes up. In the diner, pork miso soup is the go-to, but Master will cook visitors anything they order, as long as he's got the goods to make it. Episodes are a little over 20 minutes long, so it's the most bingeable of the bunch. Watch with subtitles and don't—seriously, don't—watch while hungry. Watch now: Free with a Netflix subscription ( sign up for Netflix here )

Get your international fix by watching Antoni , Karamo , Jonathan , Tan , and Bobby makeover the wardrobes and lives of everyday “heroes” in Yass, Australia , and Tokyo in their Queer Eye specials. That said, we're partial to the U.S.-based seasons, where the Fab Five hits up Atlanta, Kansas City, and, most recently, Philadelphia to give new life to regular folks. Whether they're making over the sisters behind Jones Bar-B-Q in Kansas City or the small town mayor of Clarkston, Georgia, we're on board. Have tissues on hand, as you're all but guaranteed to shed a tear (who are we kidding, you'll sob). Watch now: Free with a Netflix subscription ( sign up for Netflix here )

Places to Love

For many years, Samantha Brown was the only female host on travel TV , period. And while some, albeit small, growth has been made in this regard (Nosrat and Kellee Edwards are among the new faces), Brown is still one of the few women on the go on our screens. While she made her start on the Travel Channel with Passport to Europe, Passport to Latin America, and Passport to China , you should really be checking out her latest show, Places to Love. Now in its third season, the show sees Brown discovering off-the-beaten-path spots in some of the world's most loved destinations as far-flung as Seoul and Auckland, and right in our backyard, like Phoenix and Dallas . 

Watch Places to Love now: Free on PBS

Watch Passport to Europe now: $2 per episode, $35 per season; amazon.com

The World According to Jeff Goldblum

Ok, so this isn't as much of a travel show as it is a “what is Jeff Goldblum curious about” show—but it doesn't mean they don't travel all over the U.S. With each episode focusing on the actor's ceaseless interest in the minutiae of one specific thing (like tattoos, or pools, or RVs, or ice cream—it really runs the gamut). Over the course of the show, Goldblum visits Hawaii , Las Vegas , NASA’s neutral buoyancy lab in Houston , and so much more. If you love Goldblum, you'll probably love this show. 

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The 85+ Best Food & Travel Shows, Ranked

There's something captivating about non-fiction TV that allows even seemingly boring subjects to pull you in and hold your attention episode after episode, and it is especially true with food travel shows. While most of us don't lead a life that allows us to travel to exotic countries and eat whatever random and delicious food is being sold on the street, whenever food and travel shows come on TV there's few of us who can resist the hunger to tune in. The best food and travel TV shows are a mix of delicious HD food porn, quirky hosts that know their spices, and wish-fulfillment that involves seeing all the places you'll never visit and the five-star meals you'll never eat. Simply put, food travelogue series makes us feel good (and hungry) and the best ones are just plain old entertaining TV.

So whether you're flipping through the Food Network on a day off, burning hours at a time on Netflix, going around the world thanks to all of Zimmern's Travel Channel food shows, or actively seeking out and sharing clips of your favorite food and travel shows online, there's no denying that the top food travelogue shows can make us salivate in front of our TVs and keep us there until well past dinner. So go on and fire up the grill, enjoy a quick and easy sushi meal while traveling down an ancient river, eat all the street food in the world without worrying about getting sick, and rank the best food and travel shows ever. 

Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

Explore the farthest corners of the world through the eyes of a culinary legend in this renowned series. Delving into local cultures, politics, and history, it's an extraordinary journey that goes beyond mere food shows and provides unparalleled insights into the human experience.

Is Anthony Bourdain: Part... Worth Your Time?

Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations

Travel alongside an iconic chef as he seeks out the most authentic culinary experiences in every corner of the globe. As compelling as it is entertaining, this show is a must-watch for foodies who crave adventure and authenticity.

Is Anthony Bourdain: No R... Worth Your Time?

Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern

Prepare to have your taste buds challenged as host Andrew Zimmern seeks out the most unusual, exotic, and downright bizarre foods from around the world. It's a gastronomic journey that will both entertain and educate viewers on the diversity of global cuisine.

Is Bizarre Foods with And... Worth Your Time?

Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives

Host Guy Fieri takes viewers on a journey across America to visit mouthwatering mom-and-pop restaurants, hidden food gems, and beloved greasy spoons. It’s a tribute to the hardworking people behind these eateries while showcasing the flavorful dishes that make them stand out.

Is Diners, Drive-Ins and ... Worth Your Time?

A Cook's Tour

Follow the exploits of a world-renowned chef as he embarks on a culinary adventure across the globe. From France to Vietnam, each episode showcases local cuisine, traditions, and the art of cooking in unique and fascinating ways.

Is A Cook's Tour Worth Your Time?

Somebody Feed Phil

Join Phil Rosenthal, creator of "Everybody Loves Raymond," as he immerses himself in the gastronomic delights of various cities worldwide. With boundless energy and enthusiasm, Phil connects with locals, embraces cultural differences and savors a smorgasbord of international cuisine.

Is Somebody Feed Phil Worth Your Time?

The Layover

Imagine trying to squeeze the best food and cultural experiences from top cities around the world in just 24-48 hours. As if traveling like a local, each episode features exciting culinary adventures, insider tips, and local culture that's perfect for travelers with a tight schedule.

Is The Layover Worth Your Time?

Chef's Table

Experience the stories and culinary philosophies of some of the world's most renowned chefs in this beautifully crafted documentary series. Each episode delves deep into the creativity, passion, and discipline that drive these culinary visionaries to push the limits of their craft.

Is Chef's Table Worth Your Time?

• Dig Deeper... Chef's Table Chefs Whose Food You Want To Eat The Most
• # 1 of 44 on The Best Food & Cooking Shows Of 2024, Ranked
• # 7 of 32 on The Best Netflix Documentary Series Of 2024, Ranked

I'll Have What Phil's Having

Phil Rosenthal is back for another round of culinary adventures as he explores the world's most delicious destinations. Combining humor and a genuine passion for food, this show offers a delightful mix of travel, culture, and mouthwatering dishes.

Is I'll Have What Phil's ... Worth Your Time?

Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations

This spin-off from Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern  focuses on the must-try foods in various cities around the globe. Showcasing iconic dishes and local favorites, it's an excellent introduction to global cuisine for both culinary novices and seasoned foodies.

Is Bizarre Foods: Delicio... Worth Your Time?

Ugly Delicious

Tackle the myths and misconceptions surrounding food, taste, and tradition in this insightful docuseries. Host David Chang strips away the pretense and gets to the heart of what makes food truly delicious, even if it's not always pretty.

Is Ugly Delicious Worth Your Time?

• # 9 of 33 on Shows You Can Almost Smell Through The TV
• # 748 of 799 on The 700+ Best Netflix Original Series
• # 69 of 109 on The 100+ Best Cooking Shows Of All Time

Man v. Food

Is Man v. Food Worth Your Time?

Amazing Eats

Celebrate the mouthwatering food creations that fuel our obsession with all things delicious. From towering burgers to decadent desserts, this series showcases the best of the best in each mouthwatering episode.

Is Amazing Eats Worth Your Time?

Street Food

Venture off the beaten path and experience the heart and soul of a country's cuisine through its street food. Celebrating the culinary heroes who create these delicious, affordable meals, this series is an homage to the rich diversity and ingenuity of food from around the world.

Is Street Food Worth Your Time?

The Mind of a Chef

Combining travel, cooking, and the fascinating minds of culinary masters, this exceptional series delves into the thoughts and inspirations driving the world's most innovative chefs. Through insightful interviews, beautiful cinematography, and mouthwatering dishes, it's an exploration of what makes food truly exceptional.

Is The Mind of a Chef Worth Your Time?

Salt Fat Acid Heat

Based on the bestselling cookbook, this visually stunning series explores the four elements that make food taste great. Taking viewers from Japan to Italy, the show provides an insightful look into unique culinary traditions while proving that mastering just a few principles can have a transformative effect on one's cooking.

Is Salt Fat Acid Heat Worth Your Time?

• # 6 of 33 on Shows You Can Almost Smell Through The TV
• # 151 of 799 on The 700+ Best Netflix Original Series
• # 47 of 469 on The 400+ Best Documentary Miniseries, Ranked

Bizarre Foods America

Andrew Zimmern once again takes viewers on an unconventional journey, this time within the United States. Discover the hidden gems and lesser-known food history of America while experiencing some truly out-of-the-ordinary gastronomic delights.

Is Bizarre Foods America... Worth Your Time?

Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted

Witness acclaimed chef Gordon Ramsay push himself to new limits and venture into uncharted territory in search of extraordinary culinary experiences. Get a glimpse of his daring exploits and explore diverse food cultures with this captivating series.

Is Gordon Ramsay: Unchart... Worth Your Time?

• # 26 of 83 on The 75+ Best Travel TV Shows Sure To Give You The Travel Bug
• # 27 of 681 on The Best New Reality TV Shows of the Last Few Years
• # 20 of 58 on The 45+ Best TV Travel Series

Food Paradise

Discover the most unique, memorable, and downright delicious eateries across the United States in this mouthwatering series. Whether it's an iconic steakhouse or a quirky diner, each episode serves up a plateful of unforgettable food destinations.

Is Food Paradise Worth Your Time?

The Chef Show

Join filmmaker Jon Favreau and renowned chef Roy Choi as they experiment with new recipes, techniques, and ingredients. Featuring a mix of star-studded guests and intriguing food destinations, this show is an irresistible treat for fans of good eats and good company.

Is The Chef Show Worth Your Time?

• # 138 of 589 on The 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
• # 140 of 624 on The Best New Reality TV Shows of the Last Few Years
• # 202 of 266 on The 250+ Best Netflix Documentary Series

Gordon, Gino and Fred: Road Trip

Embark on a hilarious adventure with chefs Gordon Ramsay, Gino D'Acampo, and Fred Sirieix as they travel through Europe, tasting the finest regional cuisine, and embarking on epic culinary challenges. It's a food-filled joyride with three charismatic personalities at the helm.

Is Gordon, Gino and Fred:... Worth Your Time?

View and Chew

Feast your eyes on the visual splendor of gastronomy as this visually-driven series highlights the artistic side of cooking. Each episode showcases innovative chefs and their stunning creations while diving into the inspiration, dedication, and passion behind the dishes.

Adam Eats the 80s

Take a trip down memory lane with host Adam Richman as he revisits iconic dishes and food trends from the 1980s. This nostalgic journey is sure to delight viewers with a taste for both pop culture and culinary exploration.

Is Adam Eats the 80s Worth Your Time?

• # 44 of 169 on The Best Newer TV Shows The Whole Family Can Enjoy
• # 1024 of 1,136 on The Best New TV Shows Of 2022
• # 387 of 711 on The 600+ Best Reality TV Shows Of All Time

Taste the Nation With Padma Lakshmi

Host Padma Lakshmi delves into the diverse food culture within the United States in this enlightening series. Exploring the history, ingredients, and culinary traditions of various immigrant communities, Taste the Nation offers viewers a fascinating blend of food and storytelling.

Is Taste the Nation With ... Worth Your Time?

• # 654 of 1,047 on The 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
• # 38 of 83 on The 75+ Best Travel TV Shows Sure To Give You The Travel Bug
• # 25 of 25 on The Best Hulu Documentaries Of 2023

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Join celebrity chef David Chang as he travels the globe with famous friends to explore the culture and cuisine of various locations. From feasting in Marrakech with Chrissy Teigen to exploring Los Angeles with Lena Waithe, it's a laid-back culinary adventure served up with heart and humor.

Is Breakfast, Lunch & Din... Worth Your Time?

• # 502 of 646 on The 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
• # 265 of 278 on The 250+ Best Netflix Documentary Series
• # 43 of 63 on The Best Food Documentary Series

From the Source

Dive deep into a country's culinary roots as this immersive series explores the origins of beloved dishes, ingredients, and flavors. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and cultural significance behind what we eat, appealing to foodies and history buffs alike.

Is From the Source Worth Your Time?

• # 457 of 726 on The 120 Best Reality Shows On Now
• # 119 of 681 on The Best New Reality TV Shows of the Last Few Years
• # 47 of 82 on The Best Magnolia Network Shows

Eater's Guide to the World

Satisfy your culinary wanderlust with this captivating series that takes viewers on a journey through the world's most unforgettable food destinations. Narrated by Maya Rudolph, each episode celebrates the people, places, and stories behind some of the most amazing meals on the planet.

Is Eater's Guide to the W... Worth Your Time?

• # 307 of 726 on The 120 Best Reality Shows On Now
• # 7 of 681 on The Best New Reality TV Shows of the Last Few Years
• # 6 of 63 on The Best Food Documentary Series

Bobby and Giada in Italy

Join culinary powerhouses Bobby Flay and Giada De Laurentiis as they travel through Italy, uncovering the secrets behind the country's rich food heritage. From rustic countryside dishes to innovative urban cuisine, this series is a delicious journey through Italian culinary traditions.

Is Bobby and Giada in Ita... Worth Your Time?

Men in Kilts: A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham

Join Outlander  stars Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish as they embark on an epic road trip through Scotland, exploring the country's history, culture, and, of course, its delicious local cuisine. Their camaraderie and enthusiasm make this show a delightful watch for travel and food enthusiasts alike.

Is Men in Kilts: A Roadtr... Worth Your Time?

• # 28 of 85 on The 80+ Best British Reality Shows
• # 46 of 83 on The 75+ Best Travel TV Shows Sure To Give You The Travel Bug
• # 56 of 68 on The Best Shows On Friday Night In 2024

Ainsley Eats the Streets

Travel with British TV chef Ainsley Harriott as he scours city streets worldwide in search of the tastiest street food. Engaging with locals and showcasing the unique stories behind these culinary delights, this series blends adventure, culture, and mouthwatering eats.

Is Ainsley Eats the Stree... Worth Your Time?

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The best food and travel shows to watch right now

By James Medd

Joanna Lumley’s Home Sweet Home – Travels In My Own Land

Absolutely Fabulous star Joanna Lumley has retired the infamous Patsy Stone and gone on to make a string of travel documentaries, flitting from the USA to Japan. Her 2021 series is closer to home as she drives around the UK in an Aston Martin DB5 taking in some of the country’s most popular staycation spots. Episodes include stints on Devon ’s epic moors and Cornwall’s pretty island of St Michael’s Mount, as well as in North Wales, the Peak District and her hometown, London. Available to watch on ITV Hub

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

In this offshoot from his Ugly Delicious show, the preposterously busy David Chang hits the road for four hour-long adventures with comedians. He’s in Vancouver with local lad Seth Rogen, fishing and giggling, getting lost in a maze and above all revelling in the city’s Asian food emporia. Then he’s in Marrakech with Chrissy Teigen and in LA with Lena Waithe before the best of the bunch, visiting Phnom Penh with Kate McKinnon. The Saturday Night Live comic and Ghostbusters actor is charming, open and interested in everything around her as they talk Buddhism, ride helicopters and tuk-tuks, and dig surprisingly deep into the issues of a rapidly changing country. Streaming on Netflix

Conan Without Borders

This really is something different. For those outside of the USA, chat-show host Conan O’Brien is very much an unknown quantity, and this show may well be equally baffling: it’s a travel programme but directed primarily for laughs and with the reaction of a studio audience added as if it’s an in-show segment. We get Conan being tall, zany and actually pretty witty in the usual places Americans are interested in: Cuba, Korea, Mexico, Israel, Haiti and Italy. Don’t expect to get all the references but give it a go. Streaming on Netflix

Frankie Boyle’s Tour of Scotland

Well, he’s certainly mellowed. Once the scourge of tabloid and liberal broadsheet alike, the comic has revealed more humanity as his face has been ever more hidden under a beard. He’s still sharp, as the introduction shows – ‘There comes a time in every comedian’s career when they decide to do travelogues,’ he tells us – though this is much richer than the sitcom-character-goes-to-Africa formula we’re used to. Over four episodes, each given a very loose theme, he enjoys Scotland’s camera-friendliness – the coast, moors and monumental architecture – and meets a parade of eccentric locals. His secret weapon is asking unusual questions, ensuring a wide range of subjects: one episode alone covers Mary Queen of Scots, martial arts, protests and funfairs. Be warned: contains adult content and sarcasm. Streaming on BBC iPlayer

Great Railway Journeys

Want to take the train but can’t face Michael Portillo and his range of bright slacks? Now’s the time to dive into iPlayer, then, as the Tory grandee’s monopoly on rail travel falls off the rotation, leaving this multi-presenter series from 1994. Follow the lovely Michael Palin to Ireland and the awkwardly charming Clive Anderson to China, and watch ballerina Natalia Makarova take on her native Russia and the great BBC correspondent Mark Tully head to India. Streaming on BBC iPlayer

Griff’s Great Australian Adventure

Despite an unpromising start – do we need a TV comic to tell us that ‘this is a big place’, or that he’s about to embark on ‘the journey of a lifetime’? – this is well worth your time. Griff Rhys Jones travels around the great southern land by train, packing a great deal into his 30-minute episodes. Along with crocs, sheep-shearing, gold-prospecting and whitewater-rafting, he joins the drag scene in Broken Hill, digs into the poetry of the Outback and hitches a ride with a Flying Doctor. Throughout, he transcends the formula by being well-informed and showing an interest in people. Streaming on ITV Hub

My Greek Odyssey

If you enjoyed the last season of The Trip but felt there was too much competitive banter and not enough Greek scenery, then this is for you. Be warned, however, that host Peter Maneas is a character beyond even the imaginings of Steve Coogan: a full-on Aussie of Hellenic extraction, he’s colourful, exuberant and generally not backward in coming forward, all to the power of 10. If you can handle that, then join him on his mission to visit every one of his homeland’s 227 inhabited islands, starting with Season 1’s tour of the Saronic and Ionian, including Hydra , Spetses , Kefalonia and Zakynthos. Included with Amazon Prime membership

Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father

The comedian is a divisive figure, but less so than the man he insists on calling ‘Daddy’, an old showbiz hand who’s loving his spell in the spotlight. It’ll take five minutes to decide whether you’re up for this show, but if you can take the intergenerational eager-puppy-versus-stuffed-shirt banter you do get a lot of travel for your time. In season one they hit South-east Asia to live out Whitehall’s cancelled gap year, while season two is a cultural tour of eastern Europe led by his father Michael. In both cases, hijinks ensue, locals are baffled and we’re lightly entertained. Streaming on Netflix

Dark Tourist

New Zealand journalist David Farrier looks like a geography teacher and often appears more scared than you’d expect from someone in his line of work, but he’s a curiously engaging host for this tour of unlikely, unsafe and unsavoury destinations. Usually wearing pink patterned shorts, he ventures to nuclear disaster zones, serial-killer hotspots, voodoo rituals and the dreadful, monolithic emptiness of Turkmenistan. His show is genuinely informative and remarkably un-hipster. Streaming on Netflix

Now eight seasons in, this short-haul travelogue is admirably dependable. A lot of that is down to actor-director Richard Ayoade, who can bend his deadpan wit to provide a foil to whichever fellow comedian he has in tow for that week ’s 48-hour city break (including occasional Hollywood stars such as Jon Hamm and Paul Rudd). It’s basically a comedy but, for all the eccentric hotels , drinking and quirky-museum-hunting, this show is still a reliable indicator of whether you’ll enjoy two nights or more in that week’s destination , so bring on season nine. Catch up on All 4

The Mind of a Chef

Chef-profile shows can merge into a blur of hot men in dark rooms talking about sourcing and knives, but this PBS show is in sharp focus – partly because episodes last just 23 minutes. Each of its five seasons are hosted by a different chef, from David Chang, who presents Netflix’s Ugly Delicious , to Prune author Gabrielle Hamilton, who traces a dish to its source, has a good dig and still manages to get in more travel trimmings than most of the hour-long competition. Season five’s resident Ludo Lefebvre is particularly good value – look out for his outraged attempt to reclaim Jersey for France on a lobster-fishing trip. Stream it on Netflix

The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan

Currently vying for the title of most familiar face on British TV, Ranganathan generally trades on sardonic wit but these tours of ‘the places others avoid’ break through the cynical veneer to show the thoughtful and frequently terrified everyman inside the comedy sports-quiz panellist. In the latest, second season he journeys to Zimbabwe, Mongolia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Colombia. Streaming on BBC iPlayer

Around the World in 80 Gardens

Led by the soothing, earnest tones of Monty Don, this is a different and highly satisfying tour of the globe, first screened in 2008. Naturally each region’s flora and plant-husbandry tell us something about the culture and landscape, and our thoughtful and well-informed host is just the man to tell us how. Starting in Mexico and Cuba with rainforests and colonialism, he passes through the the tomb gardens of India’s Mughal emperors, the floating wonders of the Amazon, the Imperial Summer Palace of Beijing, Emperor Hadrian’s Retreat in Italy and the perfection of the Alhambra in Granada, via Bali, Bangkok and the Arctic Circle. You don’t need green fingers to enjoy this, just a love of beauty. Streaming on BBC iPlayer

Somebody Feed Phil

If you don’t know Everybody Loves Raymond , the American sitcom he created – actually, even if you do – you may find Philip Rosenthal a distracting host: odd, distracted, awkward. Still, he sure loves his food and Netflix sure loves him, bankrolling 12 episodes of this foodie travelogue that takes him all over the world to Bangkok , Tel Aviv , Buenos Aires , Dublin and Mexico City (always Mexico). It’s a pretty easy ride – he walks around a bit, eats some local dishes, gets excited – but it’s fun, and you’ll like Phil. Streaming on Netflix

National Geographic Presents

Dig deep into the travel-related content from the always-reliable NatGeo. For that unique combination of brashness and culinary genius, there’s Gordon Ramsay Uncharted , where the king of the TV cooks heads for Peru, Morocco, Laos and more. The Bear Grylls-narrated Hostile Planet is a fascinating look at how animals have adapted to the most difficult conditions, from icecap to desert to ocean – highlights include a jaguar hunting crocodiles in the Amazon. Adventure fans, meanwhile, should dive into Lost Treasures of the Maya , where explorer Albert Lin hunts down lost civilization with new tech. Streaming on Disney+

Lauren Burvill , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon’s semi-improvised wander between scenically sited restaurants is a journey that bears repeating. The original six-part run through the North of England in 2010, where both idea and stars were at their freshest and there was a real edge of melancholy tod the impressions and repartee, remains the best but it’s hard to argue with Season 2’s finale in Capri, where two middle-aged men talk rubbish against one of the world’s most beautiful backdrops, and Season 3’s visit to Spain kept up the quality. This year, of course, the boys were back for a tour of Greece. Find out where Season 4 of The Trip was filmed. Stream on Amazon Prime Pictured: Adatepe Ida Blue Hotel

All Aboard! The Great Reindeer Migration

From BBC4’s ‘Slow Christmas’ series, this 2018 programme follows the Sami reindeer herds of Norway on their 160-mile trek north through Finnmark to the Arctic Circle. With no eager presenters to tell us how amazing/dangerous/unchanged it is (though all those things are true), the result is more like a visual poem or guided meditation – most of it just the jangle of the animals’ bells, traditional singing and barking dogs over aerial views and close-ups. And breathe… Streaming on BBC iPlayer

Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

Dating from 2013 to 2018, this CNN series may just be the great legacy of the Godfather of the foodie-travel genre. The effortlessly cool and much-missed NY chef really scratches his adventurer’s itch here, starting with the just reopened Myanmar, Libya and the Congo, and throwing in local-knowledge trips to US cities as well. Regardless of the destination, though, the aim is the same: to live a more interested and interesting life. Watch and learn lessons for travel and beyond. Season 1 streaming on My5. Seasons 1-5 included with Amazon Prime membership

Floyd on France

A time capsule from a different age (1987, to be precise), this makes a pretty startling contrast to the current Netflix foodie doc. Bow-tied and boozy, the late Keith Floyd sets off from a land barely out of the boiled-mutton-and-suet dark ages and barges into the kitchens of France, then considered the world leader of haute cuisine. However misguided his confidence, his enthusiasm and astonishing ability to drink and talk are wondrous to behold as he charges through Provence, Périgord, Burgundy, Alsace, the Basque Country and Brittany. Streaming on BBC iPlayer

Ugly Delicious

Momofuku chef and Vice graduate David Chang (see also The Mind of a Chef ) gets down and dirty on this show, sold under the motto ‘Food is a four-letter word’. Each episode looks hard at one home-cooking favourite, with help from guest chefs or foodies, giving American comfort food, from pizza to fried chicken, the kind of attention usually reserved for haute cuisine. Just added is Season 2, where David deals with worries about feeding his forthcoming baby, looks at ways of eating beef, investigates curry with Aziz Ansari and explores the world of kebabs. Streaming on Netflix

World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys – C5/MY5

If you’re drawn to the romance of rail travel but don’t need the usual celebrity guide, fill your boots with this six-parter. There’s a Rocky Mountain ride past lakes, rainforest and wandering bears from Vancouver to Banff, an architecture-heavy tour of northern Spain, volcanoes and sacred hunting grounds in New Zealand, plus trips through Wales, Norway and to the Matterhorn in Switzerland. It’s packed with business and all very thorough, well-researched and beautifully filmed, and the narration is in the capable hands of Bill Nighy. Streaming on My5

Salt Fat Acid Heat

Hosting this adaptation of her own book, chef Samin Nosrat proves an exuberant, natural presenter. The high-concept format – four journeys in pursuit of the four titular pillars of cooking – provides the structure, leaving Nosrat to enthuse and convince with the help of chefs from Japan , Italy , Mexico and California . And though it’s mostly kitchen-based, the show always has a strong sense of place, whether in the olive groves of Liguria, Italy , on the cable car to Japan’s Shōdoshima island or under the corrugated roofs of Oxkutzcab in Mexico. Streaming on Netflix

Huang’s World

Tattooed, perma-vested Eddie Huang is a true one-off. An attorney, restaurateur and author (of televised memoir Fresh Off The Boat ), he’s also a man with a thirst for knowledge and a hunger for food, and the most energetic host in food-travel TV. This series is excellent value; Huang is unafraid to talk to experts and locals alike and always has his nose in the action. Catch up on All4

…with Simon Reeve

While others provide entertainment, the perturbingly youthful but tremendously wise Reeve brings the information part of the BBC’s Reithian values. With his background in investigative reporting, he digs that bit deeper while retaining the Bear Grylls-meets-Brian Cox enthusiasm that ensures you always know this is about travel rather than history or politics. You’ll find a selection of his trips on BBC iPlayer, from the six-part Indian Ocean journey and three-part whistlestop tour round Australia to a one-off in Colombia . Catch up on BBC iPlayer

Rick Stein’s Seafood Odyssey

In this series from 1999, the doyen of British seafood has a quick look at how the rest of the world does it. He cooks shark vindaloo in Goa, tries percebes (goose barnacles) picked from the rocks in Galicia, has seabass and oysters in Chesapeake Bay and generally enthuses about grills, saucepans and fishing nets in Naples, Queensland and Thailand before heading closer to home for a fish supper in Whitby. Streaming on BBC iPlayer

Arabia with Levison Wood

British Army officer Wood is an explorer in the classic mould, and solo walks are a speciality ( the Himalayas , the Nile, Central America , Russia ). This programme finds him, Bedouin-scarved and deeply tanned, touring 13 countries and 5,000 miles of the Arabian peninsula, crossing Oman ’s Empty Quarter by camel, embedding himself with troops fighting Isis in Yemen and exchanging selfies in Saudi Arabia. There’s all the derring-do and endurance you could ask for, but he’s also a sensitive and curious companion. Watch on Amazon Prime

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Where 'Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again' was filmed in Croatia

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Best Host Travel Agency of 2021 | HAR's Luminary Awards!

In the good old days of 2019, before the term "social distance" was even a twinkle in our eye, the Host Agency Reviews crew got really existential during a team meeting one day and asked, "Who is the best Host Agency?"

This is a question HAR set out to answer in 2019 . Lo and behold, now HARs Luminary Awards, which recognize the best host agencies out there, have become a time-honored tradition that carries into 2021.

You may be thinking, "it's impossible to say who is the best host agency! There cannot be just one!" And you're right. It's impossible. There are different hosts for different folks. There's so many great hosts out there, that we can't choose just one.

Which hosts made the list in 2021? Are there any new hosts on the scene this year? Are there any repeat hosts? Read on and we'll reveal the identity of these stellar hosts, shining their light on our 2021 HAR Luminary Awards! 🤩

And if you're someone that prefers hearing about the best host agencies in 2021 via video instead of reading, grab your popcorn and join us for our Luminary Awards ceremony on YouTube:

We Changed Our Best Host Agency Criteria in 2021.

The truth is there isn't a single best host travel agency in 2021—or any year, really—because there's a lot of subjective things you need to consider when making your decision. Do you like the company culture, do the reviews on the profile speak highly of the technology or tools that are important to you, and now that we mention it, what exactly is important to you?

We created the HAR Luminary Awards as a way to recognize companies we feel deserve recognition for their transparency and engagement on the site.

We're obsessed with finding the best host agency, so this year we made a two critical changes:

1. We added more size categories for host agencies

To keep our awards democratic, this year we added a few more host categories to acknowledge the different sizes of agencies. Some winners have two ICs, some have 2,000 (or more!). ANY host listed on our site can qualify. (Yes that's right, free listings can qualify!)

With our old criteria, we found it was more difficult for boutique hosts to hit our thresholds. We didn't want to leave anyone out, so now we have five size categories instead of only three. (You can see our size categories and requirements here .)

2. we added a new award! 🤩

In past year's we've offered four awards to recognize the best host agencies:

• The Nebula Award: Recognizing hosts with the most new reviews
• The Constellation Award: Recognizing hosts who engage with readers on their profiles)
• The Supernova Award: Recognizing hosts with 4+ star ratings
• The Data Scientist Award: Recognizing hosts who participate in helping us create leading industry data for travel agent income and travel agent fees .

But you know, we're an ambitious bunch. We were fiddling with the data and thought, you know what would be really cool? If we added an award that recognizes hosts who sweep in all categories! I'd like to introduce you to:

Did we accept bribes for this award? Heck no! In fact, we kept this award a secret until JUST NOW. (Not even the host agencies . . . not even the winner! We're iron-clad with our secrets over here at HAR 🤐.

We're extremely excited for inaugural Galaxy Award Winner! To make things even more exciting ONLY ONE HOST WON OUR GALAXY AWARD 😮!!!! Which, of course, we'll save for last (a no-brainer).

The Best Host Travel Agency Award Categories

Now, onto our award categories! HAR Luminary Awards recognize hosts in four different ways:

• Supernova Award : Recognizes the hosts that received at least one new review the previous year and have an average star rating of 4+
• Nebula Award: Recognizes the hosts with a certain number of new reviews
• Constellation Award: Recognizes the host agencies that engage with readers on their Host Agency Reviews' profile (responding to questions and reviews)
• Data Scientist Award: Recognizes the host agencies with the most participation in our surveys.
• The Galaxy Award!!!!: Recognizes hosts who received an award in every other category! (Psst! There's only one winner this year!!!)

Note: All the award data is from the host's aggregate info of the previous year (2020). To keep things super democratic, we're not going to separate them by host size (just in old school ABC order)

Is the suspense unbearable?! I know! Me too! Who are the best host agencies in 2021?!? Here they are in each category, listed in alphabetical order.

The 2021 Host Agency Reviews Supernova Award Winners

Sometimes a star gets so big and so bright that it's about to explode. That sums up our supernova awards. Its criteria recognizes the best host agencies in 2019 that have a 4.0 or higher average star rating, and have received at least one new review the previous year. Here are the hosts that burned brightly!

The 2021 Host Agency Reviews Nebula Award Winners

What is that faraway cloud of light brightening in the distance? They are the best host agencies of all sizes that have accumulated the most new reviews .

Who are these hosts attracting the attention of new travel agent ICs? Drumroll please . . .

The 2021 Host Agency Reviews Constellation Award Winners

Sure. Stars are bright and fun when they fly solo, but they're a lot more interesting to look at when they gather in groups and hangout in the sky in the shape of a horse, dog, or a mythical Greek hunter with a fancy belt and bow and arrows. The HAR Constellation Award is for best travel host agencies who engage on their profiles . They answer your questions. They respond to your reviews. They want you to be as informed as possible!

The 2021 Host Agency Reviews Data Scientist Award Winners

We like data A LOT. You probably know by now that we proudly consider ourselves nerds, geeks, data-dorks, eggheads, dweebs . . . you get the idea. Every year we publish delectable data through our income survey and fee survey .

But guess what?! That great data doesn't come from thin air. Not even close. We partner with host agencies and franchises, who do a lot of legwork in reaching out to their ICs to participate! The Data Scientist award recognizes the best host travel agencies and franchises who make these sometimes-Herculean efforts so our data is all the more stunning in our infographics. Who are these hosts this year?

The 2021 Host Agency Reviews Galaxy Award Winner is . . .

We got so excited about 2021, that we decided to make a brand spanking new Luminary Award. I'd like to introduce you to: The Galaxy Award!

As its name may suggest, The Galaxy Award, is for hosts who've gone the extra mile and received an award in EVERY category. I got excited so excited about our new award category that I decided to reveal the Galaxy Award winner with a video.

That's right. This year, only one host agency received the award.

Drumroll please . . . 🥁

HUGE congrats to KHM Travel Group for receiving our first-ever Galaxy Award! And thank you to all our Luminary Award winners for your industry engagement on our site and (more importantly) beyond! 🎉

See Past Luminary Award Winners!

This isn't our first rodeo! You can find past Luminary Award winners here:

• 2020 Luminary Awards
• 2019 Luminary Awards

That's a Wrap (for Now)

*High five* to all the best travel host agencies and franchises in 2021 that were recognized with Host Agency Reviews' industry awards!! We know they'll keep shining on, providing stellar (get it, stellar ) resources and support to burgeoning and established agents alike.

And stay tuned for next January to see which hosts will return to claim their prize, and which one will be newbies on the HAR award circuit!

You Want to Win a 2022 Luminary Award? Here's how!

So you're chomping at the bit to win a Luminary Award? This year, we expanded the host size categories to make sure Luminary Awards were an even playing field regardless of a host's size! (Previously we had 3 categories, now we have 5.)

With the exception of the Suprernova award (which awards a high average star rating), we tally up our data from the previous year to determine our award winners. Here's the deets:

• Supernova Criteria: All hosts must have a 4+ star rating and at least one new review from the previous year. Additionally: XS (≤24 ICs) hosts need ≥2 total reviews; Small hosts (≤24 IC 25-99 ICs) need ≥7 total reviews; Medium hosts (100-499 ICs) need ≥12 total reviews, Large hosts (500-999) need ≥50 total reviews; and XL (1,000+ ICs) need ≥100 total reviews.
• Nebula Criteria : Nebula rewards hosts for new reviews: XS (≤24 ICs) hosts need ≥1 new review; Small hosts (≤24 IC 25-99 ICs) need ≥3 new reviews; Medium hosts (100-499 ICs) need ≥5 new reviews, Large hosts (500-999) need ≥10 new reviews; and XL (1,000+ ICs) need ≥15 new reviews.
• Constellation Criteria: This award tracks a host's number of interactions (via onsite Q&A) and/or responses to reviews. The number of interactions to receive an award are: XS (≤24 ICs) hosts need ≥1 interaction(s); Small hosts (≤24 IC 25-99 ICs) need ≥3 interactions; Medium hosts (100-499 ICs) need ≥5 interactions; Large hosts (500-999) need ≥10 interactions; and XL (1,000+ ICs) need ≥15 interactions
• Data Scientist Criteria: This award is for the number of host's ICs who take our surveys. The number of respondents needed are: XS (≤24 ICs) hosts need ≥2 respondents; Small hosts (≤24 IC 25-99 ICs) need ≥7 respondents; Medium hosts (100-499 ICs) need ≥12 respondents; Large hosts (500-999) need ≥50 respondents; and XL (1,000+ ICs) need ≥100 interactions.
• Galaxy Criteria: I like to refer to Galaxy Award winners as "the sweepers." These are the hosts who've won an award in every other category.

About the Author

Mary Stein has been working as a writer and editor for Host Agency Reviews since 2016. She loves supporting travel advisors on their entrepreneurial journey and is inspired by their passion, tenacity, and creativity. Mary is also a mom, dog lover, fiction writer, hiker, and a Great British Bake Off superfan.

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Worlds best (and most memorable) travelers

We recently hosted two traveling couples who rank as the world‘s best travelers (at least, the best that we have met in many a year). They’re both members of the Affordable Travel Club (ATC), and each shared their secrets for traveling widely through the United States and finding unique travel gems without spending a lot of money. Their frugality and creativity allow them to travel three to six months each year.

They also rank as some of the most widely-traveled people we’ve ever met, seeing more of the United States in their journeys than most of our US friends. Let’s take a look at how they save money while traveling while cultivating their delight in finding unique travel destinations. Our visitors had Canada in common, here are their stories.

Ron and Sandar Grant , Brisbane, Australia, members of the Affordable Travel Club, and a similar club on the East Coast, the Evergreen Travel Club (The ATC is a bit larger, though the Evergreen Club has more East Coast members). They also use  roadsideamerica.com  and Atlas Obscura, each with handy phone app. To find travel gems and the weirdest places in the US, such as the Jelly Belly jelly bean factory in the East Bay, and Vermont Street in San Francisco, where 300 adults staged a big wheel race down the city’s crookedest street on Easter Sunday (Vermont is shorter but steeper and crookeder than SF’s better known Lombard Street).

The Grants shared their 1995 world trip, with two weeks in numerous locations, a month in the USA where they bought a car, and used buses, backpacks, and rented motorcycles to get around. They borrowed the car in Wales; the trip lasted four months total. At the time travel was relatively cheap, they spent $1200 in total. Between 1993 and 2000, he did five round-the-world trips. With motorcycle travel, tent camping, using his Canadian, and now his Australian citizenship and outgoing personality, he has often scored free lodging, often at colleges. At his current age, he’s matured to travel clubs and relying on international friendships.

A most interesting couple, Ron met Sandar when he was teaching math at the same school in Burma where she was a computer science teacher. While traveling, the Grants usually dress in distinctive clothing, Ron often looking like Crocodile Dundee, Sandar dressing in unique skirts tied to her Burmese background.

The grants arrived in an eight-year-old Toyota Prius they had rented through Turo in the San Francisco area. Though the car had some miles and a dated GPS system, the Turo rental saved them about 2/3 of the money they might’ve spent renting through Hertz or Avis. They have also traveled in the past on service travel projects, through groups like  Servas.org .

Ron is a man of my heart in saving on food. Instead of my spouse’s typical traveling lunch of two McDonald’s McDs and splitting a small drink, they will often shop snacks (and lunch) from Dollar Tree, and tote a small cooler for carrying drinks.

Doug and Nicole Brown , from Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada; they are Canadians who use Affordable Travel Club to its maximum. Doug uses the list of ATC members who occasionally need housesitters, writes personal notes to many of them, and each year nets three to almost 6 months of housesitting across the USA. They’ll sometimes drive to locations in the west, occasionally fly, linking housesitting gigs of 2 to 4 weeks with occasional overnight “bridge stays” with fellow ATC members.

They also utilize other ways to score free lodging, such as playing MGM online games, like Pop! Slots, allowing them to pile up thousands of points with no money investment, earning overnight stay at places like the Peppermill casino and resort in Reno, Nevada. And, the Browns will invest several days with fellow ATC members, tipping the host member $20 per night when they depart, while pluming the host’s local knowledge of unique and high-interest local and regional attractions.

Doug is very outgoing, and his 21-year career as a Canadian Air Force pilot gives him a wealth of contacts across the US and Canada, as well as interesting stories to share. Nicole is a real creative, making custom aprons. Both are very good cooks and happy to share their culinary experience with their travel hosts. They both enjoy the inexpensive food pricing in the US, with Doug being a true barbecue and smoked meats aficionado.

We have looked into other housesitting resources and have met users of these groups:  trustedhousesitters.com , $129 to $259 per year;  rover.com , where sitters are paid $40 to $100+ a night and pay a percent of earnings to the company;  housesittersamerica.com , $30/year. 

F or travel club info :  Affordable Travel Club ,  affordabletravelclub.net ;  Evergreen Club ,  evergreenclub.com .  Travel book and phone apps :  Atlas Obscura , by Foer, Thuras and Morton;  Weird California , by Bishop, Osterly and Marinacci;  Highway 99 , an anthology edited by Stan Yogi. The first two books offer web sites and phone apps.

Contact Tim,  [email protected] ;  happy affordable traveling !

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The Best Photos From Inside the 2024 White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner

By Lilah Ramzi

While Los Angeles has the Oscars and New York has the Met Gala , Washington D.C. has the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) Dinner. The event, which dates back to 1921, is traditionally held on the last Saturday in April and raises funds for the WHCA, an organization of journalists that covers the White House and awards reporters and photographers for their intrepid work each year, as well as doling out scholarships to students in college journalism programs. And, like the Oscars or the Met Gala, star wattage helps light up the night.

Saturday evening saw Saturday Night Live ’s Colin Jost serve as co-host alongside President Joe Biden. Jost’s wife Scarlett Johansson, meanwhile, brought the fashion in a columnar Giorgio Armani gown in white, while Rachel Brosnahan wore a slick black satin gown from Jonathan Cohen and Sophia Bush (making a glamorous red-carpet debut with her girlfriend, former soccer pro Ashlyn Harris) wore Harbison. Elsewhere on the red carpet, Chris Pine, Keri Russell, Fran Drescher, Molly Ringwald, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and Rosario Dawson commingled with renowned journalists and broadcast journalists like Wolf Blitzer, Gayle King, and Dana Bash.

At around 6:30 p.m., as protestors of the Israel-Hamas War demonstrated outside , dinner guests started populating the sprawling ballroom at the Washington Hilton on Connecticut Avenue. Inside, about 2,600 people would sit for dinner, with all eyes on the bride and groom-style table where Biden, Jost, Kamala Harris, and more VIPs sat—especially since the event was live-streamed by several news networks. Access to YouTube was really all you needed to feel like you, too, were in the room.

The Washington hobnobbing was on full display—Al Roker chatting it up with Senator Chuck Schumer; Harris catching up with Eugene Daniels ( Politico’s White House correspondent and a self-proclaimed “walking Beyoncé encyclopedia”)—until it was time for the highlight of the night: Jost’s monologue. Each year, a comedian is invited to (lightly) roast the president, poke fun at Congress, and jest about current affairs, all in good fun; It’s not news, after all, that politicians have long provided the best material for comedians, something that Jost and his colleagues at SNL know all too well. But President Biden had some jokes, too: He addressed Lorne Michaels (who was also in attendance) about all the comedians who have portrayed him on television throughout the years, cracking, “Who said I don’t create jobs!”

Some of these moments, and more, are below in our roundup of the best photos from inside the 2024 White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner.

Scarlett Johansson

Vice President Kamala Harris

Colin Jost and President Joe Biden

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The Best Hotels in Copenhagen

Book these editor-loved and T+L award-winning hotels in the Danish capital.

Amy Louise Bailey is a freelance content creator and media specialist. Her work has been published in Vogue , Harper’s Bazaar , Elle , Condé Nast Traveler, Bloomberg Pursuits , and Robb Report .

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Hotel Danmark

Wander the streets of Copenhagen and you’ll discover why its residents are consistently ranked among the happiest people on earth. Everything is pristine and charming: rainbow-hued buildings line the canals; there are historic landmarks, Michelin-starred restaurants, cool cafes galore; and locals exude the laidback hygge mentality, cruising around on bicycles with flowers and freshly baked cinnamon buns in their baskets.

Sleek Scandinavian design and classical European grandeur is presented with equal enthusiasm, which is perhaps why it was named the World Capital of Architecture by UNESCO in 2023. And beyond the Danish capital’s aesthetic highlights, it boasts a variety of unique cultural attractions, from the whimsical Tivoli Gardens – the world’s oldest (and undoubtedly, the most elegant) theme park, to royal palaces, and The National Gallery of Denmark, where art aficionados admire Danish treasures alongside an impressive Matisse collection.

With a wave of hip new developments and Scandinavian Airlines flying direct from nine US cities, there has never been a better time to plan your trip. We’ve compiled this list of the best hotels in Copenhagen based on a combination of personal experience, editor-loved properties, and winners of T+L’s World’s Best Awards and It List. Read on to find our top picks.

Hotel d'Angleterre, Copenhagen

Hotel d'Angleterre Copenhagen

This luxurious hotel has been Copenhagen’s crown jewel for more than 250 years and is a center of celebration around Christmas, Easter, and key Danish holidays.

As you might expect, it is one of the more expensive options in the city.

Hotel d’Angleterre is to Copenhagen what Claridge’s is to London and The Carlyle is to New York : an iconic landmark that embodies the spirit of the city in the most elegant fashion. It has been a perennial favorite for over 250 years, hosting a revolving door of world leaders and luminaries that would accept nothing less than excellence. And excellence you are guaranteed, from the prime location in the center of Copenhagen’s largest public square, flanked by the Royal Danish Theater and Charlottenborg Palace, to luxurious rooms with sprawling marble bathrooms and every contemporary comfort that you could require.

Michelin-starred cuisine is on offer at the French-inspired Marchal, where you can order fine dining specialties like lobster topped with caviar and gougeres with truffle cream. And traditional Nordic spa treatments can be experienced at the hotel’s wellness center, Amazing Space, home to the only pool in inner Copenhagen. D'Angleterre seamlessly blends old-world grandeur with modern Scandinavian luxury, and it was ranked on Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards in 2021 and 2023.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: Kongens Nytorv
• Distance From Airport: 6 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Royal Danish Theater, Charlottenborg Palace, Amalienborg Palace, Nyhavn
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Rates: From $788 per night
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary

Also available to book at Expedia.com

This hotel takes sustainable hospitality to another level: it’s carbon negative, almost entirely plastic-free, and if you book a room on the hotel’s website, it will donate a tree on your behalf.

You’ll often find a DJ spinning decks in the courtyard at night – a dream for some, a nightmare for others.

Located in the hip Vesterbro neighborhood, this stylish 88-room hotel opened right before the pandemic and has since become one of the most coveted places to stay in Copenhagen. It featured on Travel + Leisure’s It List in 2022 and the World’s Best Awards in 2023, and as is often the case with any trendy new hotel, it is the destination du jour for professionals arriving for key cultural events, such as Copenhagen Fashion Week and 3daysofdesign.

Café Coco is located at the entrance of the hotel and is the primary dining offering on site, with a cool, casual atmosphere. But if you’re in the mood for something a bit more formal, Coco’s Mediterranean-inspired sister restaurant, Delphine, is located 30 steps away. Room sizes vary from singles at 150 square feet to junior suites at 270 square feet, and the larger rooms include a sitting area and bathtubs. Overall, it’s an excellent option for individuals, couples, and business travelers heading to Copenhagen.

• Neighborhood: Vesterbro
• Distance From Airport: 8 miles
• Nearby Attractions: The Glyptotek Museum, The Meatpacking District, Tivoli, Sankt Jørgens Park
• Rates: From $202 per night

Hotel Sanders

It’s full of mid-century character and is located just opposite the Royal Danish Theater.

Rooms do not have coffee machines or kettles.

Rendered in a calming neutral color palette, Hotel Sanders is a stylish boutique hotel with 53-rooms spread across four townhouses. It featured on Travel + Leisure’s It list in 2018 and is a popular option for design lovers, with rooms that look like they’ve been decorated over the decades rather than dressed in an artificial mid-century theme.

The location is ideal, right in the historic center by Nyhavn Canal (the picture that’s likely to come up when you Google “Copenhagen”), and it’s within walking distance to key attractions and cafes. On-site dining consists of Sanders Kitchen – an all-day eatery with a simple evening menu serving delicious seasonal fare (think: dishes like salt-baked celeriac, vol-au-vent, and stracciatella with pumpkin and sage), and it is also home to Tata – a vintage-style cocktail bar that comes alive at night with both locals and travelers alike.

• Neighborhood: Historic center, near Nyhavn Canal
• Distance From Airport: 5 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Nyhavn Canal, The Royal Theater, The New Opera House, Designmuseum Denmark, Amelienborg Palace
• Rates: From $255 per night

The Audo Residence

It feels like stepping into an interior design photoshoot, which is unsurprising, given it’s the hospitality branch of luxury furniture brand, Audo Copenhagen.

It’s not a traditional hotel, so it lacks some of the standard facilities that you may require (however, if you want a workout, it has a partnership with popular local gym Nordic Strong).

With only 10 well-edited rooms, The Audo Residence takes the concept of a boutique hotel to another level, feeling part concept store, part Airbnb. The rooms are spacious, with different residential-style configurations, ranging from the penthouse to studio suites, and it features stylish decor throughout, with pieces from Audo’s contemporary furniture collection, all available for purchase, should you be inspired to recreate the look at home.

Bathrooms follow the same Scandi luxe theme, and there is a restaurant on site, where organic sharing plates are served during the day and a seasonal three-course menu is offered at night (a favorite is the rib-eye sandwich on brioche with wasabi and leek mayo). Also within the same complex is the official showroom for Audo Copenhagen, so if you’re a design aficionado, this is an excellent option.

• Neighborhood: Nordhavn
• Nearby Attractions: Nordhavn Bassin, Rundetaarn, Strøget
• Rates: From $405 per night

Manon Les Suites

Also available to book at Agoda

It has a lovely tropical-style pool that feels more like Bali than Copenhagen – a unique culture mash.

If you’re seeking something that feels distinctly Scandinavian, this is not the place – it has a jungle-style theme rather than the classically minimalistic vibe that the city is known for.

Located in a former factory in the ultra-hip Vesterbro neighborhood, Manon Les Suites is unlike any other hotel in the city. The aesthetic takes inspiration from Bali, with a pool that is supremely photogenic and a rooftop that is perfect for sunbathing, should you want your city escape with a side of resort-esque relaxation. The 87 suites are generously sized, outfitted in eco-friendly furnishings with kitchenettes and sofa beds, making it a great option for families or groups of friends (especially if you don’t intend on having every meal out). The hotel’s restaurant, Chapung, is also notable, serving Asian fusion classics from the sixth floor overlooking the city.

• Distance From Airport: 9 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Tivoli, Rundetårn, Glyptoteket, Rosenborg Castle
• Accessibility : It is not ideal for wheelchair access given there are doorsteps in the rooms
• Rates: From $245 per night

It has a rooftop terrace with 360-degree views across the city, plus a complimentary wine hour.

Some of the smaller rooms are indeed small (as in, best suited for one person).

Hotel Danmark follows the classic Copenhagen formula of minimal decor, organic food, and a hipster-luxe vibe. Its standout attraction is the rooftop terrace, which offers impressive views across the city, and in the summer months, it hosts a series of events and musical acts, attracting a mix of local denizens and international guests. There are 89 rooms that are indeed compact: the largest of them all is the junior suite, which is 322 square feet, and the smallest is a mere 130 square feet – just enough space to undress and roll into bed. It also has a bunk room category, which is a great option for groups of friends touring the city and simply seeking a clean and modern crash pad with an abundance of photogenic backdrops.

• Neighborhood: Copenhagen Cultural District
• Distance From Airport: 4 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Tivoli, The National Museum, City Hall, Strøget
• Rates: From $112 per night

It is located at the edge of Tivoli – Copenhagen’s equivalent of Disneyland – so it is a great option for families with kids.

It is one of the more costly options in the city (but it is worth it in our opinion).

Tivoli is one of Copenhagen’s most beloved attractions and the Nimb Hotel sits right alongside its fairytale grounds on the western side of the gardens. The exterior looks more like an opulent Moorish palace rather than a historic Danish building, and it’s particularly enchanting at night, when it’s illuminated with glowing lights.

As for the actual accommodations, there are 38 spacious rooms with views across the theme park and the gardens, all furnished with elegant, modern interiors. Amenities are a step above standard, with Bang & Olufsen televisions, Nespresso machines, cocktail cabinets filled with spirit decanters, and some with fireplaces and balconies. It also has a rooftop swimming pool and six restaurants on-site, so there are options to suit everyone.

• Nearby Attractions: Tivoli, The Kings Gardens, Amalienborg Palace
• Accessibility: Nimb Hotel offers three rooms that are particularly suitable for wheelchair users: rooms 18, 21, and 37
• Rates: From $998 per night

Nobis Hotel

Nobis Copenhagen

Also available to book at Mr & Mrs Smith

This Swedish-owned property is centrally located and luxurious, with detail-oriented decor and service.

Some of the rooms are located on street level and people can peer in, so there is not a lot of privacy – we would suggest requesting something on a higher level.

Located in the building that formerly housed the Royal Danish Conservatory of Music , Nobis is the sister property of the luxurious Nobis Hotel Stockholm, marking the Swedish hospitality group’s first foray outside of Sweden. The interiors have been designed to respect the building’s heritage, blending original period details with modern Scandinavian minimalism.

It has 75 rooms, including four suites, all of which contain high ceilings that provide the illusion of having even more space. Interior highlights include plush furnishings, such as the Duxiana mattresses on steel four-poster bed frames, Italian marble bathrooms, and bath products by Byredo – certainly better than your average list of amenities. Modern renditions of Nordic fare can be found at the hotel’s restaurant, NOI, and you can enjoy elegant seasonal cocktails at the sleek Marble Bar (which does an excellent espresso martini with butterscotch foam). It also has a wellness center with a pool, sauna, gym, and lounge – ideal for all of those hygge moments.

• Nearby Attractions: Tivoli Gardens, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Danish Architecture Center, City Hall
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with two adapted rooms available
• Rates: From $810 per night

Hotel Ottilia

Also available to book at Travelocity

It’s a dream destination for beer lovers, housed in the former Carlsberg brewery building. And in the spirit of imbibing, it has a wine hour and a nightcap hour, on the house for all guests.

The area is still being developed, so there aren’t as many shops and cafes nearby as there are in other neighborhoods.

This industrial hotel is housed in the former Carlsberg brewery building in the up-and-coming Carlsberg City district. It has a distinct façade lined with giant Instagram-worthy gold circles, and inside, you’ll find original architectural details, including steel beams and concrete walls.

The raw, minimalist theme continues throughout the hotel’s 155 rooms, dressed with herringbone floors with metal tables and clean, simple furnishings rendered in a mosaic of block-colored neutrals – think charcoals, tans, and icy whites. On top of the hotel, you’ll find Tramonto Rooftop – an Italian restaurant and bar with impressive 360-degree views across the city – a popular place for both locals and travelers during the warmer months. It also features a small fitness room and in-room fitness kits are available as well.

• Neighborhood: Carlsberg City District
• Nearby Attractions: Copenhagen Zoo, Carlsberg Visitor Center, The Hillhouse Museum, Cisterns in Søndermarken Museum
• Rates: From $138 per night
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary, once you sign up for the newsletter

Villa Copenhagen

Also available to book at Hotels.com

It’s a travel industry favorite, renowned for running a slick operation and for its spacious suites.

It has 390 rooms, which is on the larger side for any hotel.

Since opening its doors in 2020, Villa Copenhagen has made a favorable impression among travel industry insiders, including Jaclyn Sienna India, founder and CEO at Sienna Charles, a luxury travel concierge. “My go-to accommodation is Villa Copenhagen, housed in a gorgeous century-old building. Their designer-furnished suites typically feature a master bedroom, a dining area, and a bathroom complete with a spacious freestanding bathtub.” Rooms are indeed more spacious than most in the city. As for the other highlights? “I highly recommend trying the pastries at their on-site bakery and the fish at the brasserie, which uses only locally-sourced ingredients,” India adds. “And I love starting my mornings doing yoga in the fitness room, and occasionally wrapping up the day with a session in the sauna."

• Nearby Attractions: Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Nyhavn, Tivoli, Rosenborg Castle
• Rates: From $303 per night

The Darling

It has a homey ambiance; plus, complimentary slippers and a bottle of champagne are served on arrival.

There is no elevator as the building dates back to the early 1700s.

This exclusive guest house contains two beautifully decorated residences that feel like you’re staying in the private apartment of a hip Danish friend rather than a hotel that you’re paying for. There are abstract artworks, whimsical wallpapers, and stylish examples of Danish decor throughout – everything looks like it’s been carefully collected over time by someone with good taste.

If you’re looking for more of a residence-style accommodation, where you have all the facilities that a private apartment would offer, this is a great option, given it includes a kitchen, living room, dining room, and a study, in addition to a spacious bedroom and bathroom. The inaugural residence named “The Grand,” also has a private outdoor terrace overlooking The Church of the Holy Spirit – a tranquil place to enjoy coffee in the morning. And despite the residential-style set up, it has a concierge that can provide all the services you would be able to access at a luxury hotel, including a driver, a chef, a masseuse, and even a florist.

• Neighborhood: Amagertorv
• Nearby Attractions: Strøget, Rundetaarn, Copenhagen University
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
• Rates: The Classic begins at $1,028 and The Grand begins at $1,352 per night

Hotel Skt. Annae

It has an authentic Scandinavian vibe and is located close to many of the city’s star historic attractions.

Like many of the hotels in the city, rooms are on the smaller side and can feel a bit cramped.

This authentic hotel is located in Frederiksstaden – an area known for its architectural beauty and well-preserved buildings from the Rococo era. Nearby you will find notable historic attractions, including Amalienborg Palace, where the Danish royal family resides, as well as the Marble Church (Frederik's Church), Amalie Garden, and the Nyhavn neighborhood is just a three-minute walk away.

Accommodations vary from the penthouse to apartments, suites, and rooms that are suitable for solo travelers and couples, and the decor has a warm, lived-in feel.

• Neighborhood: Frederiksstaden
• Nearby Attractions: Amaliehaven, Amalienborg Castle, Kongens Nytorv, Christiansborg Palace, Rundetårn, Castle Rosenborg
• Rates: From $173 per night

Hotel CPH Living

It is a floating hotel located on a boat – a unique option for anyone who is interested in experiencing an unconventional stay.

Given it's on the water, it is not for everyone, and it's not ideal for anyone who suffers from motion sickness.

For something totally unique, consider this floating boutique hotel docked in Copenhagen’s city center. It has 12 rooms throughout, designed with wooden floors, simple furnishings, and large windows with front-row views of the water – it feels like being on a very small cruise ship.

A basic breakfast is provided in the mornings, but there is no restaurant on site, so you’ll need to venture out for dining. One of the highlights is the terrace with sun loungers, which is lovely if you’re visiting over the summer months. If you’re a maritime enthusiast or enjoy hotels that are a bit more unconventional, this could be the place for you.

• Neighborhood: Christianshavn
• Nearby Attractions: Danish Royal Library, National Museum of Denmark, Christiansborg Palace, Tivoli Gardens
• Accessibility: It is not suitable given it is on a boat
• Rates: From $123 per night

It’s a lively social hub, where you won’t feel the need to leave for dinner or drinks in the evening for a taste of the nightlife scene.

If you want some peace and quiet, this may not be the place, as it can be noisy with DJs and concerts on weekends.

SP34 is a hip establishment from the hoteliers behind some of Copenhagen’s most revered design hotels, and the group’s signature style is evident throughout, with Nordic decor and a cool, minimalist vibe. The 188-room hotel opened in 2014, with three restaurants (including an organic burger joint, a plant-focused bistro, and a casual eatery, Din Nye Ven), four bars, a private cinema, and a terrace across three connected apartment buildings.

There are exposed brick walls, calming neutral tones, and clean, minimal Scandinavian furniture is featured throughout. It’s a great place for creatives that thrive in a lively scene, and on Friday nights, there are DJs and musical acts, which is ideal if you want to immerse yourself in the local nightlife culture without having to leave the property.

• Neighborhood: Latin Quarter
• Nearby Attractions: City Hall Square, Strøget, gourmet food market, Torvehallerne
• Rates: From $119 per night

Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Copenhagen

Rickard L. Eriksson

It is located in Copenhagen’s first skyscraper, and as such, it provides great views across the city.

For a hotel chain brand, prices can be steep.

Business travelers gravitate toward this popular hotel located within Copenhagen’s first skyscraper (as you might expect from a corporate-friendly hotel chain like the Radisson), which has all of the big hotel amenities one could need: conference rooms, event spaces, fitness facilities, and conveniences like dry cleaning.

Rooms have sprawling views across the city, given they’re positioned high in the sky, and the hotel underwent a renovation in 2018, so everything feels fresh and polished. There are a variety of room types, but the hotel’s crown jewel is the Panorama Suite, which is almost 550 square feet and resembles a retro airport lounge. For dining, there is a Peruvian Japanese restaurant, ISSEI Copenhagen, that is not to be missed, as well as a classic breakfast selection. It is conveniently located near key transport hubs, vibrant neighborhoods, and key attractions, including Tivoli.

• Nearby Attractions: Christiansborg Palace, Tivoli Gardens, Rundetaarn
• Rates: From $191 per night

Know Before You Go

Embrace the concept of hygge.

“The essence of hygge is something that is very unique, though hard to pinpoint, especially in the English language where it often gets translated to cozy,” says Mads Østergaard, U.S. head of PR and Press for VisitDenmark. “Hygge is more like a state of mind, an ambiance, a feeling, or a vibe. Think cozy sweaters, a warm fireplace, good friends around you, a laid-back feeling, family, the feeling of being sheltered. Though all that is not uniquely Danish, the Germans call it ‘Gemütlichkeit,’ the Norwegians call it ‘Koselig,’ and the Dutch call it ‘Gezelligheid,’ we are probably the only ones who use it as a verb. We can 'hygge' with each other. We can ask a good friend if we want to 'hygge.' As an adjective or an adverb, it constantly gets thrown around in the Danish language as a way of saying ‘nice.’ Was it a good party? Yes, it was ‘hygge-ligt.’ That shows how highly valued hygge is.”

Most people speak English

“Undskyld, jeg forstår ikke, hvad du siger! Just kidding!” Østergaard jokes. “Practically everyone in Denmark speaks English. Nowadays, we start learning in first grade, but my grandparents’ generation spoke English very well, too. As a tiny nation that wants its voice to be heard on the world stage, we quickly realized that we needed to speak English.”

The best way to get around is by bicycle

“About 50 percent of Copenhageners bike to work every day, including politicians and on rare occasions, the royals,” Østergaard says. “Biking is a safe, affordable, and green way to get around in the city, and continued municipal investment has made this number rise over the last years. Copenhageners might bike fast to get from point A to B, so watch out in rush hour. Luckily, most of our designated biking lanes are quite spacious. And if you’re not comfortable on the ‘iron horse’ as we call it, our new subway system will get you anywhere in the city with new improvements getting you to places like Sydhavnen in the southern part of Copenhagen.”

Experience the city like a local

Østergaard recommends experiencing Copenhagen like a local. “Ride a bike through the biking lanes that snake through the city like green highways. Share a meal with Copenhageners at one of our great communal dining destinations. And if the temperature allows it, jump in the water in our clean canals at some of our designated harbor-baths. As a former Copenhagener, these were all part of my everyday life,” he explains. “And don’t just stay in the city center. Explore the many neighborhoods like the new Carlsberg neighborhood on the former brewing grounds of the beer giant with an eclectic mix of new and old architecture or the vibrant and multicultural neighborhood of Nørrebro. Or go even further – with a train ride of 30 minutes you can experience idyllic fishing villages with colorful houses like Dragør or see King Hamlet’s Elsinore with the Majestic Kronborg Castle overlooking the narrow strait between Denmark and Sweden.”

How We Chose These Hotels

This story was written by T+L contributor Amy Louise Bailey who has spent time in Copenhagen and has family and friends that are currently living in the city. She also interviewed Mads Østergaard , U.S. head of PR and Press for VisitDenmark and a former resident of Copenhagen, and spoke with Jaclyn Sienna India , founder and CEO at Sienna Charles, a luxury travel concierge. Several of these properties were featured on our coveted World’s Best Awards List and It Lists, in which Travel + Leisure readers vote on their favorite hotels. Furthermore, the key attributes we consider when recommending hotels are aligned with our core values, which can be viewed here .

Blades of Paris's famous Moulin Rouge windmill collapse onto street

The blades of the world-famous Moulin Rouge in Paris have collapsed overnight.

The sails of the landmark red windmill on top of France’ most famous cabaret club fell to the ground in the early hours of Thursday.

The club’s general manager Jean-Victor Clerico told reporters: "The Moulin Rouge, in 135 years of history, has experienced many adventures but it is true that for the wings, this is the first time that this has happened.

"A little before 2am, the wings of the windmill gave way, fell on the boulevard and fortunately at this time the boulevard was empty of passers-by. We are relieved this morning especially to know that there were no injuries."A venue spokesperson explained the last show on Thursday had finished at 1.15 am.

"Fortunately this happened after closing," a Moulin Rouge official told French news agency AFP.

They added: "Every week, the cabaret's technical teams check the windmill mechanism and did not note any problems.”

"It's the first time that an accident like this has happened since" the cabaret first opened its doors in 1889, the official added.

The last major damage to the building was a fire that broke out during works in 1915 which forced the establishment to close for nine years.

Paris firefighters confirmed on Thursday that the collapse on the busy Boulevard de Clichy did not cause any injuries.

The incident happened just weeks before the French capital hosts the Olympic Games.

The reason for the accident is not yet known.

The Moulin Rouge cabaret, with its distinctive red windmill blades, is located in northern Paris and is one of the most visited landmarks in the city. It is known as the birthplace of the modern dance form the can-can.

The club’s audience for its dance shows is largely made up of tourist groups.

Images on social media showed the blade unit lying on the street below, with some of the blades slightly bent from the apparent fall.

One nearby resident Laurence Plu said: "I heard it on the radio. As I live next door, I wanted to come and see with my own eyes what it was like and it's very sad.

“It's not the Moulin anymore, it lost his wings, it lost his soul."

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NFL draft's best host yet? Detroit raised the bar in 2024

DETROIT – Now that is how you stage an NFL draft.

The city of Detroit put its best foot forward in hosting the NFL’s signature offseason event, drawing a record crowd of 275,000 for the first round on Thursday and broke the total record with over 700,000 in attendance for the three-day event downtown, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Saturday.

Sure, we may have had a preview of the rabid interest in these parts as the long-suffering yet immensely passionate Lions fanbase became central to the storyline last season of the revival of one of the NFL’s oldest franchises.

The draft, though, took it to a new level.

Which fuels a most-relevant question: When will the NFL bring the draft back to Detroit?

NFL DRAFT HUB: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis.

“You know, we don’t make predictions about that,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell told USA TODAY Sports. “You have so many interested cities and competition.”

In other words, despite surpassing the attendance marks set by Nashville in 2019, the Motor City will have to get back in line to land another draft.

The bidding for the draft now resembles the bids the NFL draws for awarding Super Bowls. Since the NFL moved the draft out of New York following the 2014 event, Chicago is the only city to claim the event twice, in 2015 and 2016.

Beyond next year, when Green Bay will become the ninth location to host the draft, the NFL has yet to award drafts. So, the earliest that Detroit could host another draft is 2026.

“I was with the Mayor of Green Bay (on Thursday),” Detroit mayor Mike Duggan told USA TODAY Sports, referring his counterpart, Eric Genrich. “We’re going to help them do it next year and we’ll go from there.”

Last year, Duggan was in Kansas City for the draft. As Goodell put it, Duggan said, “Look at that. How are we going to do that?”

Well, Detroit did it even better, with the draft footprint covering a significant part of downtown. The “Draft Theatre” stage was constructed in Campus Martius Park while the league’s theme venue, the “Draft Experience” was situated near the Detroit Riverfront. With road closures, the corridor allowed for ample foot traffic that accessed entertainment venues, exhibits, bars, restaurants and pop-up stores.

Bottom line, Detroit raised the bar for staging the event. In addition to the contingent from Green Bay, there were representatives from nine cities in Detroit observing the NFL’s operations as they consider the potential for bidding on future drafts.

It’s a strong alternative for cities that would be hard-pressed to win a bid to host a Super Bowl.

“I think the beauty of this is that every community does it in their own style and then they raise the bar,” Goodell said.

In addition to the fans, Goodell said he was most impressed with the “teamwork” of the public-private partnership that existed in the six years since Detroit began its pursuit of the event.

“I think it really demonstrated the great things that are happening here in Detroit,” Goodell said. “Really proud to be here.”

During the 1990s, Duggan was chairman of the stadium authority that led to the construction of Ford Field, the Lions’ home stadium, and Comerica Park, home of MLB's Tigers.

“We talked about these kinds of days,” Duggan said.

With the Pistons and the Red Wings housed at Little Caesar’s Arena, a short walk from Comerica Park and Ford Field, Duggan notes that Detroit is the only city in the nation with all four major sports franchises with homes downtown. The Lions came back from Pontiac; the Pistons returned from suburban Auburn Hills.

“We always believed it had this kind of potential,” Duggan said. “It’s great to see it become reality.”

The next big sporting event in Detroit is ticketed for 2027, when the Final Four, the men’s college basketball championship, will be held at Ford Field. Duggan said that the city, which currently has an estimated 5,000 hotel rooms downtown, will be better positioned to bid on events as ground will be broken soon on a hotel adjacent to the convention center.

The opening night of the draft, though, allowed the mayor to bask.

“I just kept looking back at the crowd,” said Duggan, who joined the legendary Barry Sanders on stage on Friday night to announce the selection of the Lions’ second-round pick, Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, Jr.  “It was special.”

That much can be said about the draft experience in more ways than one.

On top of the buzz in downtown Detroit with the attendance figures, the NFL draft again pulled in the viewers. WIth broadcasts on ABC, ESPN, ESPN Deportes, the NFL Network and digital channels, the league reported its highest first-round viewership since 2021 with an average audience of 12.1 million, which was up 6% from the first round in 2023.

That’s a higher viewership than the 2023 NBA Finals (11.5 million), the recent Masters tournament (9.6 million) and the 2023 World Series (9.1 million).

And even better for the NFL, people watched and they showed up on the streets of the Motor City.

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The Best Red Carpet Looks at the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner

Scarlett Johansson, Colin Jost and Senator John Fetterman made their entrances at the annual celebration in Washington.

By Vanessa Friedman

It hasn’t been the “nerd prom” for a while. Once a popular target of jokes about bad fashion (and not just from the evening’s featured comedian host), the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner has morphed in recent years into a less campy, more staid prelude to the Met Gala, which takes place days later. It’s only fitting, really, given the subtext of journalists being jailed around the world.

Still, the bar for serious style has been raised by the mix of media, political and Hollywood figures that populate the guest list. Consider this year’s roster, which included Rufus Sewell and Keri Russell of “ The Diplomat ”; the SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher; Da’Vine Joy Randolph, fresh from being celebrated at the Time 100 Gala ; Scarlett Johansson, there to support her husband and the evening’s host, Colin Jost of “Saturday Night Live.” in coordinating Giorgio Armani outfits. Can the Armani effect do for the capital what it once did for tinsel town? We will see.

Not that it’s just the celebs au fait with stylists and designer brands who are working the entrances. This year’s headliner, President Biden, has such a propensity for aviators that his accessories have practically become part of his political platform — so much so that he even turned them into material for his stand-up routine at last year’s dinner. (Hello, Dark Brandon.)

Little wonder bets were being taken on whether Senator John Fetterman, a guest of NewsNation along with his wife, Gisele, would show up in a black tie hoodie or an actual tux ( last year he opted for the tux — albeit with sneakers). Answer: he did one better, in trompe l’oeil white tie hoodie and black basketball shorts. Also whether Lara Trump, sitting with Politico, would represent in MAGA glory.

After all, what is a red carpet but a photo op in better clothing? And how many politicians have met a photo op they didn’t want to seize for a messaging moment? All anyone has to do is read their looks, if not their lips.

Vanessa Friedman has been the fashion director and chief fashion critic for The Times since 2014. More about Vanessa Friedman

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Screaming success: Roller coaster enthusiasts take Cedar Point's Top Thrill 2 for test ride

The wait is finally over.

Cedar Point's reimagined Top Thrill Dragster roller coaster made its public debut Thursday morning for the media and some invited coaster enthusiasts before the park season begins May 4.

And the results were a screaming success as the coaster flew at break-neck speed once again over the signature 420-foot tower that has been fixture in the park's skyline since it first opened in 2003.

The park has spent several months rebuilding and testing the new Top Thrill 2 coaster that uses much of the old coaster's layout but with some twists including a new launch system, sleek coaster cars and second tower that also rises to the clouds.

William Chew, who is a member of the American Coaster Enthusiasts Club, drove up to the park from Mentor to ride the coaster.

He even brought along his thrill-seeking kids Billy, 8, and Phoebe, 10, so they too could have bragging rights to be among the first to ever ride the coaster.

By 10 a.m. they had already taken seven trips on the coaster.

"It is really great," William said. "This is a very exciting coaster."

Unlike the old coaster that simply launched riders over the existing 420-foot tower, this revamped version utilizes the second tower as riders get to experience rollback that sometimes happened with the original Top Thrill Dragster when things didn't exactly go right with the original launch system.

The ride has been idled since a mishap  seriously injured a rider  back in August 2021.

Anticipation over the opening of the Top Thrill 2 has been building for months as crews worked to put the pieces together to create the huge second tower situated in the middle of the park.

Antonio Zamperla, whose namesake Italian company reimagined the coaster, said Thursday's preview was two years in the making.

From the start, Zamperla said they knew they wanted to keep the heart of the coaster in place and that's the thrill of soaring some 400 feet over the top of the tower.

"The greatest challenge was reimaging an icon," he said. "All we could do is make it better."

And that meant installing a new magnetic launch system to replace the old problematic hydraulic one along with a new track, thrilling elements and doubling the ride capacity to around 2,000 an hour.

But at the heart of the work, he said, as with all their rides is to get riders from "point A to point B" safely.

"Safety is always No. 1," he said.

After months of testing of the coaster, Cedar Point has put in place  some pretty strict rules  just to get in line to ride it.

It was determined that the ride is so intense that there will be no loose articles allowed on the coaster and riders will have to pass through metal detectors just to get in line.

Park officials say the layout of the coaster makes it impossible for riders to store and retrieve things like cell phones and keys from the loading platform or in temporary lockers inside of the ride's queue. All personal items will have to be stored in rental lockers that require an additional fee just outside of the attraction's entrance.

Elizabeth Ringas, president of the American Coaster Enthusiasts club, traveled from Virginia for the preview.

This is a big year for new ride openings − big and small − but no debut Ringas said was more anticipated than the Top Thrill 2.

"This is one of the most memory-making coasters ever," she said. "It's 420 feet tall. This is a ride you will not experience anywhere else in the world."

5 rules you need to know about the new Top Thrill 2 roller coaster

• All riders must be at least 52 inches tall.
• No loose articles including cellphones, keys, lighters and even lipstick are permitted on the ride. All riders will pass through metal detectors at the ride's entrance. You are not permitted to wear waist packs or use zippered pockets to store loose articles. You will be allowed to wear glasses on the coaster but they must be secured with a strap that tightly secures to your head.
• All cellphones, purses and loose articles must be left with a non-rider or inside lockers that will be situated at the ride's entrance. There will be a rental charge for the lockers.
• Loose-fitting shoes or any shoe without a strap or back including flip-flops or sandals are not permitted on the ride. Riders are not permitted to ride barefoot.
• The Top Thrill 2 uses a safety restraint that must touch the top of the thighs of each rider. A test rider seat is located at the ride entrance to ensure proper fit of the safety restraint.

Top Thrill 2 by the numbers

The Top Thrill 2 is the world's fastest triple-launch strata coaster.

It features two 420-foot-tall towers and launches riders three times at 74 miles per hour, 101 mph and finally 120 mph.

The total track length is 3,422 feet and it takes some two minutes from start to finish.

Passengers board the coaster cars on the platform and, once secured, the loading track slides over to the main track for the three launches.

There are three racing-themed coaster trains — metallic blue, one metallic silver and a third one metallic black.