Eastern Approaches

To coincide with International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Ben and Andrew bring up the idea of dark tourism, debate its merits and discuss some of the destinations they’ve experienced this in such as Chernobyl, Auschwitz and bone church or ossuary in Czechia. They also delve into a few travel wish-lists so get ready to learn more about Russia’s Golden Ring and a Bavarian Wagner festival.

To ring in 2021, Ben and Andrew tackle a big fish, the issue of Russia and Turkey being part of Europe or not. Do these countries belong in their own special category or are they really Europe? Ben waxes poetic about his first time in Bosnia where a still war-torn Sarajevo had not revealed all of its charms. Andrew recalls rubbing elbows with a soon to be Croatian President during his first time in Croatia.

Ben & Andrew reveal many Hungarian destinations outside of Budapest where the average English-speaking traveler are few and far between. We also discuss picks for our most-anticipated destinations of 2021.

Ben & Andrew discuss how service culture is different in this part of the world compared to the U.S. Some phrases and some insightful tips will help you to be less concerned over the fact that your waiter doesn't smile at you. Beyond Expectations, Below Expectations, No Expectations takes a look at various destinations such as Batumi (Georgia), Wroclaw (Poland) and Split (Croatia) and how the reality matched up to our initial expectations. Practical tips include an App for vegans and a travel photographer to keep your eye out for.

Eastern Approaches admit their shortcomings with a focus on those destinations they know little about including Slovakia. Learn about holiday traditions and the Christmas scene in both Czech and Slovenia. Andrew recounts some memorable travels with his father through Poland and the Baltics. We focus on great places for hikes and nature in Montenegro and Slovenia. 

Is everything in C&E Europe just amazing, awesome and 100% super? Our short answer - NOPE! So Ben and Andrew have produced their most grinchest Grinch episode yet. Over-rated? Check. Tired of going there? Check. Actually not that interesting sights or history? Check again. Plus some lumps of coal dropped into the most deserving stockings. Who ever said we were homers?

Ben recalls many of his not-so-fond memories ‘surviving’ his first time in Romania. Andrew waxes poetic about Sunday brunch and double-features in Prague. And they both discuss why Zagreb and Plovdiv are two great cities that aren’t on most travelers’ radar (yet).

Ben recalls many of his not-so-fond memories ‘surviving’ his first time in Romania. Andrew waxes poetic about Sunday brunch and double-features in Prague. And they both discuss why Zagreb and Plovdiv are two great cities that aren’t on most travelers’ radar (yet).

We'd love to hear what you think about our podcast and open for your ideas on topics for future episodes. You can get in touch with us through facebook on @EasternApproachespodcast

Listen in as Ben Curtis and Andrew Villone embark on their first ever Live Stream podcast of Eastern Approaches. This is the Pub Trivia edition, giving you insight into the history, oddities, minutiae, and little know facts about Central & Eastern Europe. Along the way, they talk about pub grub food in their respective countries, craft beer, and the art of ordering while in a foreign country. Bust out some snacks, crack open a beer, keep score at home and join us for a bit of virtual pub trivia night. And remember to send us your scores, prizes may be awarded...

In this episode we explore one of the least-known cultures in Europe: the Seto people in Estonia. Setomaa ("the land of Seto") is a fascinating place, and our guide Helen Külvik brings it to life. She tells us what makes the Seto people distinct, all about their most notable traditions and customs, and how they have survived until the present day.