Historian Colin Jones has managed to distill centuries of French history into just 250 pages, and he leads us through significant sights from the mighty nation's recent past. Then a veteran BBC correspondent recalls turbulent times in 1980s Afghanistan and the hotel that still stands as a symbol of the country's resilient people. And a photographer from Scotland's Hebrides describes his ongoing quest to capture the moods, light, and breathtaking beauty of his homeland.

One of Rick's favorite Venice tour guides lets us in on changes afoot in Italy's city of dreams. Then the tireless Senior Nomads share lessons from a dozen years on the road as they unpack their suitcases and settle down for good. And a gastronomic guide invites us to dig into the best bites from across the continent.

Guidebook researcher Cameron Hewitt opens our eyes to the history, nature, and genuine welcome that await travelers venturing to the Slavic nations of central and eastern Europe. Then a tour guide from Switzerland explains what compels him to run with the bulls in Pamplona each summer, as he's done for five decades. And listeners chat with Rick about their latest European travel discoveries.

Hear how Gothic literature uses scary stories and the supernatural to explore human nature. Then learn about the origins and traditions of Mexico's annual celebration of departed loved ones. And get a New Orleans tour guide's take on the uniquely spiritual culture of her city as well as some of its most haunted sights.

Learn about the societal roles and everyday lives of the women of Pompeii. Then get recommendations from a Greek tour guide for some islands that should be on your radar for your next visit. And take a walk on the Emerald Isle's weird side with a local collector of all things offbeat, outlandish, and delightfully Irish.

Hear how the characters of Nordic mythology can help you better understand the past, and how they influence the epic tales that entertain us today. Discover Dutch towns to explore beyond Amsterdam where you can view technological marvels as well as medieval charm. Also, find out how tourism in Nicaragua is trying to rebound from multiple setbacks, one rural homestay at a time.

Bestselling author Frances Mayes comes in from the Tuscan sun to tell us about her favorite uncrowded corners of Italy, away from the crush of the country's top tourist destinations. And a certified beer judge explains what makes lager the world's most popular style of the ubiquitous beverage.

A Portugal tour guide describes the scenic and culinary rewards that await visitors to the country's mid-Atlantic island getaways. Then a Scotsman who spent over two decades living on Easter Island takes us behind the mysteries of its famous stone figures and shares what daily life is like in the remote outpost. And a New York linguist reminds us of the benefits of preserving our world's diverse dialects.

Get an inside look at the (mostly) friendly rivalries of Scandinavia as a pair of tour guides from Sweden and Norway sit down for a chat. Then hear from a London Blue Badge guide about what to know — and love — about London's famous underground metro system. And listen in as we explore the grand castles of the Czech Republic.

Two tour guides from Sofia explain why Bulgaria is one of Europe's most underrated travel destinations (hint: it has a long, fascinating history — and bargain prices). Author Francine Falk-Allen shares know-how and insights for traveling with a physical disability. And author Richard Cohen describes the varied ways human cultures have long celebrated — and feared — our life-giving nearby star.