Travel Shows offer a fantastic way to experience the world from the comfort of your home, sparking wanderlust and providing inspiration for your next getaway. At TRAVELS.EDU.VN, we understand the allure of travel and curate exceptional experiences, so let’s explore the best travel shows together and turn your dreams into reality with personalized travel planning. Whether you’re seeking adventure travel, cultural immersion, or culinary tours, TRAVELS.EDU.VN is your partner in crafting unforgettable journeys.
1. What Makes a Great Travel Show?
A great travel show captivates audiences by blending stunning visuals, engaging storytelling, and authentic cultural experiences. These shows often feature charismatic hosts who immerse themselves in local traditions, cuisines, and landscapes, providing viewers with an intimate glimpse into different corners of the globe. According to a study by the University of Southern California’s Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, travel shows that emphasize cultural exchange and local perspectives are more likely to resonate with viewers and inspire travel.
2. What Are Traditional Travel Shows Worth Watching?
Traditional travel shows provide in-depth explorations of destinations, offering historical context, practical tips, and insightful commentary. These shows often focus on popular tourist attractions and cultural landmarks, making them ideal for planning your own adventures.
2.1. Rick Steves’ Europe
Rick Steves’ Europe is celebrated for its comprehensive coverage of European history, art, and culture. Steves’ deep knowledge and passion for the continent make this show both educational and inspiring.
Where to Watch: Tubi, Xumo Play, Sling TV, PBS, The Roku Channel, PLEX, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Apple TV+
Rick Steves in Europe
Alt Text: Rick Steves exploring a historic site in Europe, showcasing his engaging and informative travel style.
2.2. Passport to Europe with Samantha Brown
Samantha Brown’s infectious enthusiasm and curiosity make “Passport to Europe” a delightful viewing experience. Brown’s focus on history, landmarks, and local experiences provides a well-rounded perspective on European travel.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
2.3. The Layover
The Layover, hosted by the late Anthony Bourdain, is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and experiences in a short period. Bourdain’s expert travel tips and culinary adventures make this show a must-watch.
Where to Watch: Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Discovery Plus, Amazon Prime TV, Apple TV+, YouTube TV, Travel Channel
2.4. The National Parks: America’s Best Idea
This documentary celebrates the beauty and history of the United States’ national parks, from the Arctic to Yellowstone. Breathtaking footage, interviews, and untold stories highlight the importance of preserving these natural treasures.
Where to Watch: PBS, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube
2.5. Globe Trekker
Globe Trekker features a rotating cast of hosts exploring destinations around the world, offering practical travel advice and cultural insights. The show’s extensive coverage makes it a valuable resource for aspiring travelers.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
3. What Experiential Travel Shows Offer Unique Perspectives?
Experiential travel shows focus on immersive and often unconventional travel experiences, providing viewers with unique perspectives and cultural insights. These shows often explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and delve into local customs and traditions.
3.1. Dark Tourist
Dark Tourist, hosted by journalist David Farrier, explores destinations with a grim history, offering a fascinating and sometimes unsettling look at unusual travel experiences.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Exploring Dark Tourism Destinations
Alt Text: David Farrier in “Dark Tourist” exploring an unusual and potentially morbid travel destination.
3.2. Conan Without Borders
Conan Without Borders features comedian Conan O’Brien traveling to different countries, immersing himself in local cultures and participating in humorous and often absurd activities.
Where to Watch: Max, Hulu, The Roku Channel, YouTube TV, Fandango at Home
3.3. Tales by Light
Tales by Light offers a behind-the-scenes look at the work of professional photographers, showcasing their techniques and highlighting the power of images in conservation.
Where to Watch: Netflix
3.4. Expedition Unknown
Expedition Unknown, hosted by Josh Gates, investigates unsolved mysteries, lost cities, and buried treasure around the world, offering an adventurous and educational viewing experience.
Where to Watch: Hulu, Philo, The Roku Channel, Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home
3.5. The Moaning of Life
The Moaning of Life follows comedian Karl Pilkington as he travels the world to explore how different cultures tackle big topics like marriage, happiness, and death, providing a humorous and thought-provoking perspective on life.
Where to Watch: YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, Amazon Prime Video
3.6. Planet Earth
Planet Earth, produced by the BBC, showcases the beauty and diversity of our planet through breathtaking footage of different biomes and habitats, inspiring viewers to see more of the world.
Where to Watch: Max, YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home
4. What Road Trip Travel Shows Are Most Exciting?
Road trip travel shows capture the excitement and adventure of exploring new destinations by car or motorcycle. These shows often feature stunning landscapes, unique vehicles, and engaging conversations with locals.
4.1. Long Way Round
Long Way Round follows actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman as they ride their motorcycles from London to New York, taking an eastern route through Europe, Asia, and Alaska.
Where to Watch: Apple TV+
4.2. Long Way Down
Long Way Down is a sequel to “Long Way Round,” following Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman as they ride from Scotland through Europe and Africa to Cape Town, South Africa.
Where to Watch: Apple TV+
4.3. Epic Drives
Epic Drives, created in partnership with Motor Trend magazine, highlights fast cars, unique trucks, and stories from locals in epic locations around the world.
Where to Watch: Max, YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime TV
4.4. Top Gear
Top Gear combines car reviews, road trips, and adrenaline-fueled challenges, making it a fun and entertaining show for car enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Where to Watch: Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home
Top Gear Adventure
Alt Text: Top Gear showcasing a thrilling car adventure in a scenic location, blending automotive excitement with travel.
4.5. The Grand Tour
The Grand Tour features Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May (of “Top Gear” fame) driving unique automobiles in interesting places around the world, offering quirky advice and entertaining banter.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
5. Which Food and Drink Travel Shows Are Highly Recommended?
Food and drink travel shows explore the culinary traditions and gastronomic delights of different cultures. These shows often feature renowned chefs, local eateries, and unique ingredients, providing viewers with a taste of the world’s diverse cuisines.
5.1. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations
Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations combines food and adventure, as Bourdain explores the culture and cuisine of various destinations with his signature wit and candor.
Where to Watch: Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Hulu, Max, Amazon Prime Video, Philo, YouTube TV, Disney+, Sling, Fandango at Home, Travel Channel
5.2. Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown
Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown delves into the history and culture of often-complicated places through the sharing of traditional food and drink, offering a deeper understanding of the world.
Where to Watch: The Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Max, YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, Discovery Plus, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home
5.3. Gordon Ramsay’s Uncharted
Gordon Ramsay’s Uncharted features Chef Gordon Ramsay learning about the cuisine and traditional cooking methods of different cultures, offering a more humble and adventurous side of the renowned chef.
Where to Watch: Hulu, Disney+
5.4. Gordon’s Great Escape
Gordon’s Great Escape follows Gordon Ramsay as he travels around India and Southeast Asia, learning about local cuisine and experiencing “travel sickness” just like the rest of us.
Where to Watch: Tubi, Pluto TV, Xumo Play, Sling TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, Amazon Prime Video
5.5. Ugly Delicious
Ugly Delicious, hosted by chef David Chang, explores different types of food and how they are interpreted in various countries, offering close-up shots of the food and a celebration of culinary diversity.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Exploring Ugly Delicious Cuisine
Alt Text: David Chang from “Ugly Delicious” showcasing a variety of unique and culturally diverse foods.
5.6. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner features David Chang traveling the world with funny, food-loving celebrities like Seth Rogen and Chrissy Teigen, as they embark on culinary adventures in various cities.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
5.7. Street Food
Street Food captures the vibrant colors and essence of street food dishes from around the world, celebrating the culture and people behind the authentic flavors.
Where to Watch: Netflix
5.8. Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern
Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern explores unusual and often squeamish foods from around the world, showcasing Zimmern’s willingness to try anything and everything.
Where to Watch: Sling TV, The Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Hulu, Max, Philo, YouTube TV, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, Travel Channel
5.9. Three Sheets
Three Sheets follows comedian Zane Lamprey as he travels the world to meet new people and drink alcohol with them, offering an international pub crawl experience.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
5.10. I’ll Have What Phil’s Having
I’ll Have What Phil’s Having features Phil Rosenthal experiencing as much as he can as an adult, even if that means stepping into the unknown, with his friendly demeanor and childlike innocence.
Where to Watch: Pluto TV, Xumo Play, The Roku Channel, YouTube TV, Amazon Prime Video
5.11. Somebody Feed Phil
Somebody Feed Phil features Phil Rosenthal bringing his friends and family along as he visits cities ranging from Tel Aviv to New Orleans, tasting the best pizza, egg cream, and hot dogs of his life.
Where to Watch: Netflix
5.12. BuzzFeed’s Worth It
BuzzFeed’s Worth It offers a unique spin on food reviews, as 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.
Where to Watch: Peacock, The Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+
5.13. Booze Traveler
Booze Traveler features host Jack Maxwell learning about what people are drinking and why they drink it, drawing on his experience as a bartender in South Boston.
Where to Watch: Philo TV, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, Amazon Prime Video
5.14. Chef’s Table
Chef’s Table dives into the lives and personal stories of six chefs each season, discussing their discipline and culinary talent while they prepare a dish, offering a deeper look into the world of fine dining.
Where to Watch: Netflix
5.15. Restaurants at the End of the World
Restaurants at the End of the World features Kristen Kish traveling the world in search of the people, places, culture, and traditions behind the world’s most remote restaurants, exploring the challenges of running a restaurant in off-the-grid destinations.
Where to Watch: Hulu, Disney+, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, Amazon Prime Video
5.16. Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico
Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico follows actress Eva Longoria as she explores the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, uncovering the deep-rooted history, diverse flavors, and cultural significance of Mexican cuisine.
Where to Watch: Discovery Plus
5.17. Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy
Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy features Stanley Tucci meeting local chefs, artisans, and food producers who showcase traditional Italian dishes, highlighting how Italy’s diverse geography and history have shaped its food.
Where to Watch: Max, YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, The Roku Channel, Discovery Plus, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home
6. What Reality TV Travel Shows Are the Most Engaging?
Reality TV travel shows offer a mix of adventure, competition, and personal stories, providing viewers with an engaging and often dramatic viewing experience.
6.1. Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father
Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father follows comedian Jack Whitehall and his father, Michael, as they hit the road together to “strengthen their bond,” offering a relatable and humorous look at traveling with a parent.
Where to Watch: Netflix
6.2. The Amazing Race
The Amazing Race features 11 teams of two racing around the world to make it to the final leg and take home the $1 million prize, facing grueling challenges and navigating foreign cities on a limited budget.
Where to Watch: Pluto TV, Hulu, Paramount, fuboTV, CBS, YouTube TV, Disney+, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, Fandango at Home
6.3. Survivorman
Survivorman features Canadian survival expert Les Stroud stranding himself in the remote wilderness for 7–10 days with only his clothes and a camera rig, motivating viewers to spend more time in nature.
Where to Watch: Pluto TV, Tubi, the Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Sling, Apple TV+
6.4. An Idiot Abroad
An Idiot Abroad follows Karl Pilkington as he is constantly pranked by British comics Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, offering a humorous and often clueless perspective on cultural customs around the world.
Where to Watch: YouTube, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video
6.5. Restaurants on the Edge
Restaurants on the Edge features three food and design experts reviving restaurants that are on the edge of failing by reconnecting them with the local culture and food, offering a redesigned decor and unique menu.
Where to Watch: Netflix
6.6. Extreme Engagement
Extreme Engagement follows PJ Madam and Tim Noonan as they travel the world for an entire year to see if their relationship can cut it, visiting remote villages and experiencing life with tribespeople in their quest to “discover the secret to a perfect marriage.”
Where to Watch: Netflix
Couple's Journey in Extreme Engagement
Alt Text: A couple in “Extreme Engagement” experiencing a remote culture, illustrating their quest for relationship insights through travel.
6.7. House Hunters International
House Hunters International offers a glimpse of life in another country, showcasing where people could potentially live and highlighting the often-unrealistic expectations or lavish budgets of the buyers.
Where to Watch: Hulu, Max, Philo TV, YouTube TV, Disney+, Sling, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home
6.8. Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost
Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost features Marko and Alex Ayling vlogging their 24-hour adventures in popular cities across the globe, showcasing both sides of the coin for penny-pinching backpackers and all-out ballers.
Where to Watch: Peacock
7. What Scripted Shows Set Abroad Offer Cultural Immersion?
Scripted shows set abroad offer cultural immersion by weaving local customs, traditions, and landscapes into their storylines. These shows often provide viewers with a deeper understanding of different cultures and societies.
7.1. The White Lotus
The White Lotus is set in fictional White Lotus resorts in Hawaii, Italy, and Thailand, where an idyllic vacation quickly unravels into a web of dark secrets, power struggles, and social commentary.
Where to Watch: Max, YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home
7.2. Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories
Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories takes place in a fictional small Japanese bar in Tokyo that is open from midnight to 7am, where the chef creates any dish that a customer may want using the ingredients that he has on-hand that night.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Cultural Immersion in Midnight Diner
Alt Text: A scene from “Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories” showcasing the intimate setting and cultural nuances of a Japanese bar.
7.3. Srugim
Srugim is based on the lives of five single men and women in their 30s in Jerusalem, checking all the boxes for a binge-worthy show with controversial issues, marriage problems, and a character struggling with their sexuality.
Where to Watch: Tubi, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video Prime, YouTube TV
7.4. Lost
Lost is about the survivors of a commercial jet airliner that crashed on a mysterious island in the South Pacific Ocean, filmed at Mokulē’ia Beach, near the northwest tip of Oahu.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, Amazon Prime Video
7.5. Outlander
Outlander is filled with sweeping landscapes, historic castles, and elegant gardens, filmed mostly in the Scottish Highlands, but also in Prague and Cape Town, South Africa.
Where to Watch: Starz, Sling TV, Netflix, YouTube TV, Hulu, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, Philo, Apple TV+
7.6. Downton Abbey
Downton Abbey is set in the fictional Yorkshire country estate of Downton Abbey between 1912 and 1926, depicting the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants.
Where to Watch: Britbox, Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, The Roku Channel, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home
7.7. Grantchester
Grantchester takes place in a picturesque 1950s Cambridgeshire village named Grantchester, where a detective drama unfolds, and viewers dream of spending their next vacation in a sleepy British town.
Where to Watch: PBS, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home
7.8. Trapped
Trapped captures the wild and remote feeling of Iceland in this crime drama taking place in an isolated Icelandic town, where the chief of police tries to solve the murder of a former townsperson.
Where to Watch: Netflix
7.9. The Kettering Incident
The Kettering Incident is based on the mysterious disappearance of two young girls, but the dark and enchanting landscapes are a central part of the show, filmed in and around the town of Kettering and Bruny Island in Tasmania.
Where to Watch: The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Fandango at Home
7.10. Top of the Lake
Top of the Lake is set in a remote mountain town in New Zealand, where an inexperienced detective tries to figure out what happened to 12-year-old Tui, who disappeared while five months pregnant.
Where to Watch: Hulu, Disney+, YouTube TV, Apple+, Fandango at Home, Amazon Prime Video
7.11. Sense8
Sense8 is about a group of eight strangers from around the world who realize they are connected telepathically, having to find a way to keep each other safe from those who find their powers threatening.
Where to Watch: Netflix
7.12. Hawaii 5-0
Hawaii 5-0 takes viewers on a trip to Hawaii with this TV show featuring an elite state police task force set up to fight major crimes in the state.
Where to Watch: Paramount, CBS, YouTube TV, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home
7.13. Marco Polo
Marco Polo gives viewers an insight into the life of one of the world’s first explorers, inspired by the creator’s own legendary trip through Central Asia.
Where to Watch: Netflix, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, Amazon Prime Video
8. How Can TRAVELS.EDU.VN Help You Plan Your Next Adventure?
Inspired by these travel shows? TRAVELS.EDU.VN can help turn your travel dreams into reality. We offer personalized travel planning services, including:
- Customized Itineraries: We design itineraries tailored to your interests and preferences.
- Expert Recommendations: Our travel experts provide insider tips and recommendations for the best experiences.
- Hassle-Free Booking: We handle all the details, from flights and accommodations to tours and activities.
9. What Are the Benefits of Booking with TRAVELS.EDU.VN?
Booking your travel with TRAVELS.EDU.VN offers several advantages:
- Time Savings: We take care of all the planning and booking, saving you time and stress.
- Personalized Service: Our dedicated travel experts provide personalized assistance throughout your journey.
- Exclusive Deals: We offer exclusive deals and discounts to help you save money on your trip.
10. Ready to Start Planning Your Next Adventure?
Don’t just dream about your next adventure—make it a reality with TRAVELS.EDU.VN. Contact us today to start planning your perfect trip.
Contact Information:
- Address: 123 Main St, Napa, CA 94559, United States
- WhatsApp: +1 (707) 257-5400
- Website: TRAVELS.EDU.VN
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Travel Shows
FAQ 1: What is the most popular travel show right now?
The most popular travel show varies depending on current trends and viewer preferences. However, shows like “Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy” and “The White Lotus” consistently receive high praise and viewership.
FAQ 2: Are travel shows a good source of travel inspiration?
Yes, travel shows are an excellent source of inspiration. They provide visual insights into destinations, cultures, and experiences, sparking ideas for your own adventures.
FAQ 3: How can I find travel shows that fit my interests?
You can find travel shows that fit your interests by exploring streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, and using keywords related to your interests, such as “food travel,” “adventure travel,” or “cultural travel.”
FAQ 4: What are the best travel shows for learning about different cultures?
Shows like “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown,” “Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy,” and “Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico” offer deep dives into different cultures through food, history, and personal stories.
FAQ 5: Can travel shows help me plan my trip?
Yes, many travel shows provide practical tips, destination information, and insider insights that can be valuable for planning your trip.
FAQ 6: What are some travel shows that feature budget travel tips?
Shows like “Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost” and segments of “Globe Trekker” offer budget travel tips and insights for exploring destinations on a shoestring budget.
FAQ 7: How do travel shows choose their destinations?
Travel shows choose their destinations based on a variety of factors, including cultural significance, visual appeal, unique experiences, and current travel trends.
FAQ 8: Are travel shows authentic representations of travel experiences?
While travel shows aim to provide authentic representations of travel experiences, they are often edited and curated for entertainment purposes. It’s important to consider multiple sources of information when planning your trip.
FAQ 9: What are some travel shows that focus on sustainable tourism?
Shows that highlight eco-tourism and responsible travel practices can be found by searching for keywords like “sustainable travel,” “eco-tourism,” and “responsible tourism” on streaming platforms.
FAQ 10: How can I create my own travel show or vlog?
Creating your own travel show or vlog involves planning your content, filming your adventures, editing your footage, and sharing your stories on platforms like YouTube and Vimeo. Start small, be authentic, and focus on providing value to your audience.
Ready to embark on your next adventure? Let travels.edu.vn craft the perfect Napa Valley experience for you. Contact us today and turn your travel dreams into reality.
