Rick Steves' Europe Video - TopPodcast.com

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Brussels, Belgium: Europe's Political Nerve Center Apr 04, 2012

Show notes

Brussels is the capital of a united Europe — only Washington DC has more lobbyists. While tourists munch tasty treats in the historic town center, on the outskirts of this bilingual city are the bustling modern headquarters of the European Parliament. Inside this glassy Tower of Babel, hundreds of politicians are hard at work shaping Europe's future. For centuries, Europe's cultural and political differences often led to war. Today's challenge is to respect these differences while building a democratic, prosperous and peaceful Europe. Brussels offers travelers the chance to watch this fascinating story unfold. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Harran, Turkey: Ancient City of Abraham Mar 28, 2012

Show notes

Centuries of wind and warriors have rounded the corners of Harrans' fortress. Here, 500 miles SE of Istanbul near the Syrian border it seems the people and their ways of life have changed little. Many locals live in conical mud brick dwellings and women don colorful scarves. According to the Bible, Abraham settled here on his way to the promised land in Canaan about 1900 BC, making Harran one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on earth. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Capri, Italy: Pricey Towns and Priceless Views Mar 21, 2012

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The Isle of Capri, a short boat ride from Sorrento or Naples is well worth a visit. The main town of Capri sits in a saddle above the port. The main square of this cute and touristy shopping mecca has steep prices but the window shopping is free. Up the hill lies Anacapri, the island’s second town with fewer tourists, a little more character, and a passion for colorful Majolica tiles. Ride the chairlift to the summit of Monte Solaro for stunning Mediterranean views and a delightful downhill hike. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Solvorn, Norway: Idyllic Fjordside Town Mar 14, 2012

Show notes

For a taste of Norway's romanticism, visit the mellow town of Solvorn with its dramatic setting on the Lustrafjord, an arm of the majestic Sognefjord. This sleepy village, with colorful boathouses lining its waterfront, seems contentedly trapped in the past. The historic Hotel Walaker offers tasty local cuisine and views to drool over. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Bayeux, France: Famous Medieval Tapestry Mar 07, 2012

Show notes

Bayeux, a town 140 miles west of Paris in the Normandy region, is famous for the Bayeux Tapestry. This 230 foot long embroidery, housed in an excellent museum, tells the story of arguably the most memorable event of the Middle Ages — the pivotal Battle of Hastings in 1066 where the Norman leader William the Conqueror defeated Harold to claim the throne of England. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Lake Bled, Slovenia: Natural Beauty Feb 29, 2012

Show notes

Lake Bled — nestled in NW Slovenia's Julian Alps — comes complete with a sweeping mountain panorama, a cliff-hanging castle, a lazy lakeside promenade, and the country's most sought-after desserts. While Bled has all the modern resort-town amenities, its most endearing quality is its stunning romantic setting. Fun-loving wedding parties flock to the church perched upon the lake's fairy-tale island. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Ronda, Spain: Gorge-Straddling Hill Town Feb 22, 2012

Show notes

Spaniards know Ronda, one of the White Hill Towns of Andalucía, as the cradle of modern bullfighting and for its stunning cliffside location. The real joy of Ronda lies in exploring the old and new sections, taking in its beautiful balconies, exuberant flowerpots, and panoramic views into the gorge far below. Strolling the back streets, you feel a strong local pride and sense of community where mingling over delicious tapas is a time-honored tradition. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Stockholm, Sweden: Gamla Stan Feb 15, 2012

Show notes

Stockholm's compact island core is charming, photogenic, and full of antiques shops, street lanterns and surprises like the beautiful Lutheran cathedral . The main drag is a favorite with shoppers and tourists. But just a block or two from the commotion, the atmosphere changes. Tranquil lanes feel much like they did back in the 17th century, when all of Stockholm fit on Gamla Stan. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Athens, Greece: Museum Traces the Sweep of Greek History Feb 08, 2012

Show notes

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens is the single best place on earth to see ancient Greek artifacts. Strolling through the chronologically displayed collection — from 7,000 B.C. to A.D. 500 — is like watching a time-lapse movie of the evolution of art. You’ll go from the stylized figurines of the Cycladic Islands, to the golden artifacts of the Mycenaeans, to the stiff, stoic kouros statues of the Archaic age. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Blaenau Ffestiniog, Wales: Fascinating Slate Mine Experience Feb 01, 2012

Show notes

Slate mining played a blockbuster role in Welsh heritage and visitors are welcome at the Llechwedd mine, nestled in the rugged terrain of North Wales. After a train ride deep into the mountain, a guide tells of the harsh working conditions and traditional mining techniques and demonstrates the art of slate splitting. While the mining culture is virtually gone, the tradition of singing survives. Welsh men's choirs are world-famous for their beautiful music. Town choirs welcome tourists at both their weekly practices and their many concerts. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

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