Travel shows offer a fantastic way to explore the world from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or an armchair adventurer, the Best Travel Shows can transport you to exotic locations, introduce you to diverse cultures, and ignite your passion for exploration. From culinary journeys to architectural marvels, there’s a travel show out there for every interest. Here’s a curated list of some of the best travel shows available, guaranteed to fuel your wanderlust.
Indulge Your Taste Buds with Culinary Travel Shows
For food enthusiasts, culinary travel shows are a delicious way to discover new cultures and cuisines. These shows go beyond just eating, delving into the history, traditions, and people behind the food we love.
Taste the Nation with Padma Lakshmi
Join award-winning cookbook author Padma Lakshmi as she traverses the United States, exploring the vibrant and diverse food cultures of various immigrant communities. “Taste the Nation” isn’t just about food; it’s a journey into the heart of American identity, exploring how different cultures have shaped what American cuisine is today. Lakshmi’s insightful and empathetic approach uncovers the profound connections between food, humanity, and history.
Gordon’s Great Escape
Follow the fiery chef Gordon Ramsay on a transformative gastronomic adventure through India. In “Gordon’s Great Escape,” Ramsay immerses himself in the stunning diversity of Indian culinary traditions, from bustling street food markets to elaborate home kitchens. This series showcases not only the incredible flavors of India but also the challenges and triumphs of experiencing a culture vastly different from his own.
Eater’s Guide to the World
Narrated by the witty Maya Rudolph, “Eater’s Guide to the World” takes viewers on a quest to find the most unexpected and epic culinary destinations around the globe. This show is perfect for those who love to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden food gems. Rudolph’s engaging narration and the show’s focus on local experiences make it a delightful and informative watch.
Fresh, Fried, and Crispy
If you’re a fan of comfort food, “Fresh, Fried, and Crispy” is a must-watch. Food critic Daym Drops embarks on a mouthwatering journey across America, seeking out the best, freshest takes on fried food. From classic fried chicken to innovative fried creations, this show celebrates the crispy, golden goodness that food lovers crave.
High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America
Based on Jessica B. Harris’s acclaimed book, “High on the Hog” is a powerful and moving docuseries that traces the history of African American cuisine and its profound impact on American food culture. This series explores the journey of food from Africa through enslavement to the Harlem Renaissance and beyond, celebrating the resilience, creativity, and artistry of African American people. It’s a crucial story that reveals the deep roots of American cuisine.
F*ck, That’s Delicious
Join rapper Action Bronson as he combines his love for music and food in “F*ck, That’s Delicious.” This unapologetically fun show follows Bronson on tour as he explores incredible food in the cities he performs in. It’s a raw, unfiltered, and often hilarious look at the world of food through the eyes of a passionate foodie.
The Food That Built America
“The Food That Built America” delves into the fascinating stories behind the food titans who shaped American culinary landscape. From Heinz to Hershey, Kellogg to McDonald’s, this series uncovers the ambitious and sometimes cutthroat journeys of the entrepreneurs who created household names and revolutionized the food industry.
Worth It
“Worth It” is a unique food adventure series where hosts Steven Lim and Andrew, along with their cameraman Adam, try delicious foods at three different price points: affordable, mid-tier, and luxury. They then decide which item is the most “worth it” at its given price. This show is perfect for viewers who are curious about exploring different levels of dining experiences and finding value in food.
Big Food Bucket List
Hosted by comedian John Catucci, “Big Food Bucket List” is a fun and lighthearted series that sees Catucci eating his way across North America, checking off the most mouth-watering dishes from his bucket list. From classic comfort food to high-end plates, this show is a celebration of North American cuisine and a treat for food lovers.
Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern
Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a global quest to discover the world’s most unique and often unconventional foods in “Bizarre Foods.” Zimmern’s adventurous spirit and open-minded approach make this show a fascinating exploration of different cultures through their most unusual culinary offerings.
Sourced
“Sourced” follows Tastemade’s Guy Turland as he explores the origins of food, from foraging in the wild to creating dinner parties in exotic locations. This series offers a deeper look into where our food comes from and the journey it takes to our plates, highlighting sustainable and mindful eating practices.
The Final Table
For those who love culinary competition, “The Final Table” brings together elite chefs from around the world to compete in a high-stakes culinary showdown. Teams of chefs vie to impress some of the world’s toughest palates by creating iconic dishes from nine different nations. It’s a thrilling and visually stunning culinary competition.
Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy
Stanley Tucci embarks on a personal and passionate journey across Italy in “Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy,” exploring the diverse regional cuisines of his heritage. Tucci’s charming and insightful approach, combined with the stunning visuals of Italy and its food, makes this show a delightful and enriching experience.
United Tastes of America
“United Tastes of America” with Jeffrey Saad focuses on iconic American food staples and explores how chefs across the country are reinterpreting them in innovative and delicious ways. This series celebrates the creativity and diversity within American cuisine, showcasing the evolution of classic dishes.
City of Gold
“City of Gold” profiles Pulitzer Prize-winning food critic Jonathan Gold as he explores the vibrant and diverse culinary scene of Los Angeles. Gold’s insightful perspective reveals how ethnic cooking in LA serves as a portal to the soul of America, telling stories of immigrants and their culinary contributions to the city.
Food on the Go
“Food on the Go” traces the global migration of Italian cuisine and its evolution in the Americas. This docuseries delves into the concepts of origin, diaspora, and heritage through the lens of food, exploring how Italian culinary traditions have been adapted and transformed in new lands.
Midnight Diner & Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories
“Midnight Diner” and “Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories” offer a unique and intimate look into Japanese culture through the lens of a small, late-night diner in Tokyo. These series are less about grand culinary adventures and more about the human connections formed over simple, comforting food. The stories of the diner’s patrons are both heartwarming and poignant, offering a taste of everyday life in Japan.
Explore Cultures and Adventures Around the Globe
Beyond food, travel shows excel at immersing viewers in different cultures and showcasing thrilling adventures. These shows satisfy the craving for exploration and understanding the world’s diverse tapestry.
Europe From Above
“Europe From Above” offers a breathtaking aerial perspective of Europe’s most iconic cultural and geographical landmarks. Filmed with stunning cinematography, this series reveals how tradition, engineering, and natural wonders have shaped the continent. It’s a unique and visually captivating way to see Europe like never before.
Conan Without Borders
Late-night host Conan O’Brien brings his signature humor to travel in “Conan Without Borders.” This series sees Conan venturing to various parts of the globe, immersing himself in local cultures, and often finding himself in hilarious and unexpected situations. His everyman persona and comedic approach make cultural exploration entertaining and accessible.
James May: Our Man In…
James May embarks on insightful and often humorous journeys in “James May: Our Man In…”. From Japan to Italy and India, May explores each country with his characteristic dry wit and genuine curiosity. He delves into the local culture, meets fascinating people, and provides a thoughtful and entertaining perspective on each destination.
Paul Hollywood’s Big Continental Road Trip
Celebrity chef and car enthusiast Paul Hollywood combines his passions in “Paul Hollywood’s Big Continental Road Trip.” This fast-paced series sees Hollywood exploring the cars and cultures of France, Italy, and Germany. It’s a thrilling ride for both car lovers and travel enthusiasts.
Twourist
“Twourist” offers a fresh and unique travel perspective from content creator Victoria Volkova. In this series, Volkova explores Mexico City through two distinct trips, showcasing the diverse experiences and sides of this vibrant metropolis.
Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost
“Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost” follows the Vagabrothers as they experience popular travel destinations on vastly different budgets. This series is perfect for travelers of all kinds, demonstrating that incredible experiences can be had whether you’re pinching pennies or living in luxury.
Europe’s Greatest Train Journeys
“Europe’s Greatest Train Journeys” celebrates the beauty and accessibility of European rail travel. This series takes viewers on scenic train rides through some of Europe’s most stunning regions, highlighting both popular destinations and hidden gems accessible by rail.
Discover Amazing Homes and Interiors
For those fascinated by architecture and design, travel shows can also explore unique and extraordinary homes around the world, offering inspiration and glimpses into innovative living spaces.
Amazing Interiors
“Amazing Interiors” introduces viewers to eccentric homeowners whose seemingly ordinary spaces hide extraordinary surprises. From hidden rooms to indoor aquariums and backyard roller coasters, this show showcases the creativity and imagination that people bring to their homes.
HOME
“HOME” explores the groundbreaking ideas and inspiring stories behind the world’s most imaginative dwellings. This docuseries introduces viewers to visionaries who are challenging conventional concepts of “home” and rethinking how we live, showcasing innovative and sustainable approaches to housing.
The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes
Award-winning architect Piers Taylor and property enthusiast Caroline Quentin travel the globe in “The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes” to tour unconventional and breathtaking homes in extreme locations. This series is a visual feast for architecture lovers, showcasing stunning designs in some of the world’s most remote and challenging environments.
Cooked: A Broader Perspective on Food and Travel
Cooked
While not strictly a travel show, “Cooked” offers a unique and insightful perspective on food and its connection to culture and humanity. Explored through the lenses of the four natural elements – fire, water, air, and earth – this series examines the evolution of cooking and its universal ability to connect us. It encourages a return to the kitchen and a deeper appreciation for the traditions and techniques of food preparation.
Conclusion
The world of travel shows is vast and varied, offering something for every taste and interest. Whether you’re craving culinary adventures, cultural explorations, or architectural inspiration, the best travel shows can transport you around the globe and ignite your wanderlust. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let these shows take you on an unforgettable journey from the comfort of your couch. Start exploring the world of best travel shows today!
