For aspiring globetrotters, the world is an expansive and sometimes intimidating place. Before packing a bag and booking a flight, immersing yourself in different cultures, landscapes, and travel styles through television can be a fantastic way to spark inspiration. The right shows can demystify foreign customs, highlight hidden gems, and ignite a passion for exploration. Whether you are seeking culinary adventures, thrilling backpacking journeys, or a deeper understanding of global history, television provides a front-row seat to the planet. Here are twelve beginner-friendly television shows designed to ignite your wanderlust and prepare you for your own international adventures.
Anthony Bourdain: Parts UnknownNo list of travel television is complete without the late Anthony Bourdain. In Parts Unknown, the beloved chef and storyteller takes viewers far beyond typical tourist traps. By breaking bread with locals in places like Vietnam, the Congo, and Iran, Bourdain showcases how food acts as a universal language. This series teaches the beginner traveler that true cultural immersion comes from listening, respecting local traditions, and stepping boldly outside of one’s comfort zone.
Rick Steves’ EuropeFor those looking to explore the Old World, Rick Steves is the ultimate guide. His long-running series, Rick Steves’ Europe, is a masterclass in practical, budget-friendly, and culturally conscious travel. Steves focuses on accessible history, magnificent art, and efficient public transportation, making it an indispensable resource for anyone planning their first trip across the Atlantic.
An Idiot AbroadTravel is rarely entirely smooth, and this hilarious reality series embraces the unexpected. Executive produced by Ricky Gervais, the show follows the notoriously sheltered Karl Pilkington as he is sent to visit the Seven Wonders of the World. While Pilkington’s humorous complaints provide comic relief, the show offers a candid look at the unpredictability of international travel and the importance of maintaining a sense of humor when things go wrong.
Street FoodCreated by the team behind Chef’s Table, this visually stunning documentary series dives deep into the heart of global culinary cultures. Focusing on bustling night markets and roadside stalls in vibrant cities like Bangkok and Oaxaca, Street Food celebrates the unsung culinary heroes of the world. It inspires travelers to seek out authentic, local dining experiences rather than sticking to chain restaurants.
Long Way RoundFor the adventurous soul, this docuseries follows actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman as they attempt to ride motorcycles all the way around the world. Starting from London and heading east, their journey takes them through remote regions of Eurasia and across unforgiving terrain. It is a thrilling testament to the endurance, planning, and resilience required for epic overland expeditions.
DeparturesDepartures follows two childhood friends, Scott Wilson and Justin Lukach, as they leave their comfortable lives in Canada to travel the globe. What makes this series special is its raw, unpolished authenticity. The hosts do not always stay in luxury accommodations; instead, they face the emotional and physical challenges of long-term travel, offering a highly relatable perspective for first-time backpackers.
Joanna Lumley’s Silk RoadAcclaimed actress and presenter Joanna Lumley takes viewers on awe-inspiring, epic journeys across some of the world’s most historic routes. In this specific series, she traces the legendary Silk Road, encountering diverse cultures, stunning architecture, and fascinating histories along the way. Lumley’s genuine warmth and curiosity make the viewer feel like they are right beside her on the train.
The Kindness DiariesLeon Logothetis sets out on a motorcycle with no money, relying entirely on the kindness of strangers to survive and fuel his journey. As he travels the globe, he repays the generous people he meets with life-changing gifts. This heartwarming and uplifting series demonstrates the beautiful connectivity of humanity and proves that the world is generally a welcoming place for those who approach it with an open heart.
Dark TouristFor travelers interested in dark history and unconventional destinations, journalist David Farrier explores the world of dark tourism. From nuclear test sites in Kazakhstan to haunted forests in Japan, the show investigates locations associated with death, tragedy, and the bizarre. It serves as an educational guide on how to approach sensitive, historically complex destinations with respect and intellectual curiosity.
Expedition UnknownAdventurer and explorer Josh Gates takes viewers on a thrilling mix of travel, history, and archaeology. Traveling to remote corners of the earth, Gates investigates iconic mysteries, lost cities, and legendary treasures. The show is perfect for travelers who want to add an element of exploration, adventure, and treasure hunting to their own future itineraries.
Tales by LightThis breathtaking series follows professional photographers as they travel to some of the most extreme and visually stunning environments on the planet. From capturing the vibrant colors of the Holi festival in India to diving with sharks, Tales by Light emphasizes the profound power of visual storytelling. It encourages travelers to slow down, observe their surroundings, and appreciate the artistic beauty of different cultures.
Moveable Feast with Fine CookingThis lively culinary series brings together top chefs to explore various food scenes across North America and Europe. The hosts gather local ingredients, cook spectacular meals in unique outdoor locations, and celebrate the regional diversity of global cuisine. It inspires travelers to explore local markets and engage with the culinary traditions of the places they visit.
Watching these incredible television shows is merely the first step toward building your ultimate global itinerary. Each series offers a unique lens through which to view the world, providing valuable lessons in cultural appreciation, practical planning, and embracing the unexpected. By stepping into these stories from the comfort of your living room, you can gather the knowledge and courage required to plan your own transformative journeys. The vast beauty of the world awaits, and these programs provide the perfect foundation for your upcoming adventures.
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