Learn about the Norwegian TV show that's helped many Americans discover their old-country ancestry, then get to know the centuries of traditions behind Carnival celebrations in Venice and Cologne, the scene of some of Europe's biggest wintertime parties. Plus, hear about the local delicacies you'll find on the various tapa menus across Spain.

A Dutch tour guide shares the charms of her historic hometown of Delft, then author Simon Winchester tells us why he believes the Pacific Rim defines our global future and details the biggest challenges facing the world's largest ocean. And NBC News correspondent Martin Fletcher explains his zeal for telling the personal stories behind the 20th-century tragedies he's covered as a reporter — but this time as a novelist.

A pair of native-born Sicilian tour guides tell us what matters most about the "intensified Italy" of the island they call home. Then Eric Weiner, author of Geography of Genius, poses a theory about the places that have fostered world-changing innovation, from ancient Athens to today's Silicon Valley. And a journalist from Tokyo updates us on Japan's recession, and tells us what the Japanese are looking forward to in 2016.

Hear how an American found delight, and a fresh start, in rural Ireland — even after an unwelcome medical diagnosis ended his career. Then consumer-travel expert Christopher Elliott explains the pros and cons of travel insurance, and lets us in on the tacked-on costs of many “bargain” airfares. And listeners share their plans for overseas travel in the year ahead.

Hear about New Year's customs and superstitions of Belgium, Portugal, Turkey, Wales, the Netherlands, Spain, Sicily, Hungary, and Scotland. Then brighten your New Year with new tips for pairing the right kind of pasta and sauce, and learn the dos and don’ts of attending a dinner party in Switzerland.

Hear about holiday traditions in Wales, Hungary, Sicily, and Scotland, then learn about the unique ways people light up the season in Santa Fe — where the glow of luminarias and the scent of piñon wood fires leave a lasting impression. And listen in as we head much farther south to hear how scientists at a research station in Antarctica make merry. Also, listeners share some of their favorite Christmas memories from holiday travels.

Nothing says Christmas like fresh oysters and fermented trout — at least according to some Europeans. Learn about the yuletide traditions of France, Norway, Greece, London, the Spanish Basque Country, and small-town Italy, from the varied fare to unusual holiday decorations to Santa's leaner — and often meaner — overseas counterparts.