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  • Rick Steves Says This Scenic Region Of France Has A Lovely Climate & Tons Of Vineyards

    France is one of Europe’s most iconic countries. Brimming with an almost overwhelming array of things to see and do, it’s the country of cheese and wine, of effortless elegance, of mouthwatering morning croissants, and sun-drenched beaches. It boasts an almost unrivaled history, as well as some of the most impressive and influential artists and writers in the world. Overall, France is a destination no traveler to Europe should miss out on.

    Choosing where to go in France is a more difficult decision. Many tourists opt for the chic sophistication of Paris or stunning turrets and towers of the must-see castles of the Loire Valley. Bordeaux’s vineyards are world-famous, while the wild natural beauty of the Auvergne and the Cévennes call to some. But it’s hard to look beyond the remarkable region of Provence, thanks to its “splendid recipe of arid climate, oceans of vineyards, stunning scenery, lively cities, and adorable hill-capping villages,” as described by European travel expert Rick Steves.

    Provence is in the southeastern corner of France, bordering Italy and the Mediterranean Sea. Most visitors arrive in Provence at one of its three main cities: Avignon, Marseille, or Nice, all of which have international airports. Other popular spots in Provence include Toulon, Cannes, Aix-en-Provence, and St. Tropez.

    Read more: So-Called ‘Tourist Traps’ That Rick Steves Loves

    Sun-drenched beaches and ancient history

    Aerial view of the Calanque de Vau and the surrounding hiking area in the Calanque de Cassis – Michael Workman/Getty Images

    Provence is one of France’s most famous, beautiful, and varied regions. In the south lies the fabled French Riviera, the Côte d’Azur, that has been immortalized on screen and been one of the foremost vacation destinations for the rich, the famous, and the fabulous for decades. Spots like Cannes, Nice, and St. Tropez are filled with glamorous actors and millionaire yacht parties, but there’s more to Provence’s Mediterranean coastline than that. The stunning Calanques National Park between Marseille and Toulon is a natural wonder, a wrinkled coastline of dramatic limestone cliffs, bays, and coves offset by gorgeous turquoise water. There are medieval churches in Castagniers and Ile Saint-Honorat, remarkable art museums like the Musée Renoir and Fondation Maeght, and extraordinary, picture-perfect beaches everywhere you look.

    While many people come to Provence just to soak up the sun on some of the best beaches in Europe, there’s plenty to explore inland as well. The region is overflowing with history, from antiquity to the recent past, and cultural explorers will find plenty to enjoy. According to Steves, “the area is crammed with ancient history — the Roman ruins here are among the finest. Many scholars claim the best-preserved Roman buildings are not in Italy, but in France.”

    He particularly recommends the city of Nimes, with its magnificent aqueduct and bronze crocodile-palm medallions that line the streets, and the open-air theater in Orange. Steves says that “all of Roman Provence is basically an open-air museum,” but there are a few indoor versions that are worth a look, including the Ancient History Museum in Arles, which helps “fill in the blanks” of the remarkable history of the region.

    Glamorous wineries and stunning purple fields

    Blooming lavender fields and village of Aurel in background in Vaucluse, Provence

    Blooming lavender fields and village of Aurel in background in Vaucluse, Provence – Serbek/Getty Images

    One of the most enduring images of Provence in popular imagination is its rolling hills covered in gnarled vines and soft purple lavender flowers, and exploring the vineyards and lavender farms of the region is one of the best experiences you can have. Start off at the Chateau de Saint Martin, which has been producing wines since 1740. Situated high in the mountains above St. Tropez, it offers views almost as delicious as its vintages.

    After, you might want to explore the boutique delights of Domaine de l’Olivette, a family winery that’s been passed down through generations for over 200 years. Located in one of the best grape-growing areas in Provence, near La Cadière-d’Azur, its Bandol wines are particularly excellent. The vineyard is small, making each bottle something of a prize. If you want something even more picturesque, the Abbaye de Lérins is located on the tiny island of Île Saint-Honorat, attached to an exquisite historic abbey, and makes for a truly exceptional day of wine-tasting and deserted beach-hopping.

    Experience a show-stopping finale at Château La Coste, a winery owned by the same family as the Connaught and Claridge’s luxury London hotels. This 500-acre property combines mouthwatering wines with fine art, as the grounds contain a fabulous sculpture park with work from some of the most renowned artists in the world, including Frank Gehry, Damien Hirst, and Andy Goldsworthy. To experience the glory of Provence’s lavender fields, head to the Luberon and Verdon plateaus to the north of Aix-en-Provence in July, when the countryside is painted in a myriad of shades of purple, lilac, and mauve.

    Ready to discover more hidden gems and expert travel tips? Subscribe to our free newsletter for access to the world’s best-kept travel secrets. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

    Read the original article on Explore.

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  • Rick Steves’ Newest Guidebook Is A Fresh Perspective On Italy Spilling The Country’s Secrets

    Rick Steves is at it again with a new guidebook, and this time his focus is on a trio of Italy’s most majestic cities: Rome, Venice, and Florence. A valuable addition to the veteran traveler’s oeuvre, which includes guidebooks to major Mediterranean cruise ports and exposés of the great monuments and bubbling bathhouses of Budapest, this one leads the reader through the land of pizza, pasta, and panzanella.

    His original “Rick Steves Italy” is now in its 28th edition, and Steves still has fond memories of his time in the country. He still says his 1973 romp to Rome was among his best-ever trips to Europe, and he recently revealed that Lake Como and the scenic Alta Via 1 hiking path in the Italian Alps were among his vacation destinations of choice for 2025. So it’s fair to say that the eminent author, TV presenter, and radio host is a big, big fan of Italy and all it has to offer.

    He’s not the only one. Data from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (via SchengenInsurance) shows that Italy reigns as the third most-visited country in the whole of Europe. Over 57 million folks travel here each year! Many of those tourists will head straight for the big-hitting cities of Rome, Venice, and Florence, a triptych of enthralling towns that often dominate lists of the must-see places in the country. Well, now they’ll have a Rick Steves guidebook to accompany them, since those three metropolises are the headline destinations of this new publication.

    Read more: Rick Steves Says To Always Do These Things Before Traveling

    A new perspective on three iconic Italian cities

    Huge crowds on the main square of Venice – Kirk Fisher/Getty Images

    Up until now, most Rick Steves guidebooks on Italy have concentrated on the whole country or niche cultural areas like Italy for foodies. That, or they’ve been deep dives into specific cities on their own — there are dedicated standalone books for traveling just to Rome, to Florence, to Venice. Where this new publication differs is in its merging of three into one.

    By recognizing just how popular that golden trifecta of cities really is, Steves now tables a handy, packable product that you can use for not one, not two, but three top Italian must-sees. The travel guru has done something similar before. Previous editions of his snapshot series of books have coupled the fashion city of Milan with the glinting waters of the Italian Lakes District, for example.

    Doing it this way will mean some inevitable sacrifices in detail. For example, the new book doesn’t have certain day-trip suggestions or information on what to do with kids in each place. However, it’s still jam-packed with all that great “Rick-tested information” you’ll be used to, spread across a whopping 400-plus, super-thin pages. Steves recommends it for anyone looking to visit all three hotspots in the same journey and planning to spend up to four days in each city.

    Reveal the secrets of Rome, Venice, and Florence, the Rick Steves way

    The famous Rialto Bridge on the Grand Canal of Venice

    The famous Rialto Bridge on the Grand Canal of Venice – Adisa/Getty Images

    Avid followers of Rick Steves will know of his so-called “back door” approach to travel. It’s a way of really getting under the skin of a place by seeking out lesser-visited sights, doing as the locals do, and overnighting in popular day trip destinations. This new guide is true to that age-old way of doing things; a way of doing things that’s served this Europe expert well since 1976!

    It’s crammed with vital information for maximizing your time and budget, outlining both the top-draw attractions and the hidden wonders of each town. Take Florence as an example. Steves offers comprehensive walkthroughs of the Uffizi Gallery, but also tips on side street osterias where you can dine on real Tuscan food and drink an authentic Chianti. Want to know the best place to glug a Negroni in Rome’s romantic quarter of La Trastevere? This one has you covered. Keen to skip the crowds and see the most underrated parts of Venice that Rick Steves calls the most intriguing of all? No problem!

    Then there are the mapped-out walking routes. These have long been one of the central pillars of Rick’s Italy coverage, revealing ways to navigate bustling cities that take in oodles of landmarks and hidden gems, all on easy-to-follow maps. They include Rick’s curated “Dolce Vita Stroll” from Piazza del Popolo all the way to the Roman Forum, and a self-guided cruise down the legendary Grand Canal to lay eyes on the Campanile di San Marco, the tallest structure in Venice.

    Ready to discover more hidden gems and expert travel tips? Subscribe to our free newsletter and add us as a preferred search source for access to the world’s best-kept travel secrets.

    Read the original article on Islands.

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  • Rick Steves’ Simple Fashion Tip To Avoid Unwanted Attention In Italy As A Woman

    The gifts and pleasures of travel last a lifetime, with our memories, experiences, and personal growth the greatest souvenirs. While shared journeys with family, friends, or a significant other are often intensely rewarding, many women’s reservations about traveling on their own have evaporated in recent decades. An empowering embrace of living life without barriers, solo adventures can be life-changing for many hardcore introverts.

    European travel expert Rick Steves says in his blog that “For the most part, the upsides of solo travel (independence, self-discovery) and the downsides (loneliness, extra costs) are the same for women and men.” But if you’re a woman traveling alone and you have some anxiety about that, you may want to consider these tips to make traveling alone easier and safer for women. And if southern European countries like Italy are on your itinerary or wish list, as they should be, you should consider an additional factor beyond which cities to visit or the best places to stay: the possibility of unwanted male attention, which can really put a damper on an otherwise pleasant day.

    Italy is a safe country overall, with excellent transportation and infrastructure. Healthcare facilities are up to par, the people are friendly, and the food is world-renowned. The country is overflowing with history, charm, art, architecture, and enough quaint villages to keep you busy for years. However, Italian men are known for giving women more attention than desired at times, which can cause discomfort and fear when unsolicited. Steves acknowledges in his blog that, in Europe, overt violence toward female travelers is rare. But the unwanted attention can be a nuisance and can even spiral into harassment if not handled correctly. Therefore, Steves recommends that women arm themselves with this secret weapon when traveling solo in Italy: a pair of dark sunglasses.

    Read more: Why Travelers Should Avoid Airport Lounges

    How sunglasses discourage unwanted advances

    Woman in gondola in Venice wearing sunglasses – Valentinrussanov/Getty Images

    Many female travelers are interested in getting to know the culture and meeting locals when exploring in another country. But sometimes, their seemingly innocent gestures — like a smile and friendly but lingering eye contact — can send out mixed signals. In his blog, Rick Steves explains that, in Mediterranean countries like Italy, when a woman allows extended eye contact with a man, they may perceive it as an invitation to initiate conversation. Wearing dark sunglasses, then, gives a woman the freedom to gaze freely without having to worry about how it will be interpreted by others.

    In this way, sunglasses are more than a mere fashion statement. They endow wearers with a veil of anonymity, allowing them to feel bolder and more confident yet, at the same time, more private and insular. Sunglasses also create a kind of protective barrier between wearers and those trying to assess their vulnerability, making it more challenging for strangers to approach when not directly invited.

    It’s always recommended for travelers to learn a few words or phrases in Italian, but solo female travelers should learn a curt phrase or two to shoo away those who are too persistent. For example, when you say “basta” in Italy, it is well understood that you want to be left alone. If you continue to feel threatened, walk toward a group of women or head to a hotel lobby, but hopefully this won’t ever be necessary. Above all, savor your solo adventures, and when in doubt, rock your shades — your multifaceted fashion accessory.

    Ready to discover more hidden gems and expert travel tips? Subscribe to our free newsletter for access to the world’s best-kept travel secrets.

    Read the original article on Islands.

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  • Foodies Visiting Italy This Fall Will Love Rick Steves’ Recommended Festivals

    Italy is known for its vibrant dining culture and endless tourist ventures, which is why it comes as no surprise that several food-themed festivals are gearing up to be held during the fall and winter of 2025. Luckily, Rick Steves has already done everyone the favor of listing the upcoming festivals on his website, so travelers can decide which ones appeal to their flavor profile.

    On weekends from October 10 through 19, 2025, the Pistachio Festival, or Sagra del Pistacchio, will be held in the Sicilian town of Bronte. Bronte pistachios, known for their vibrant green shade, attract visitors from all over the world to indulge in pistachio-based candies, sauces, and ice creams, both savory and sweet. The pistachios are almost considered sacred in Sicily, earning the title of “green gold” for their appearance and unparalleled flavor. Because of the unique positioning of the pistachio farms at the bottom of the volcanic Mount Etna, the pistachios taste unlike any other in the world. At the Pistachio Festival, you will not only find the most pistachio-flavored items you’ve ever seen, but also learn about the history and origins behind the green nut craze.

    Read more: The Best Cities In America For Seafood Lovers, According To Foodies

    More Italian foodie festivities

    A woman standing in front of an Italian Christmas Market. – Francesco Bonino/Shutterstock

    Another coveted Italian flavor, truffles, also has its place in the Italian unique food festival scene. The International White Truffle Fair takes place from October 11 to December 8, 2025, in the underrated Italian destination town of Alba. As the name suggests, the fair centers on all things white truffles, with exclusive cooking shows, classes, and tastings. Visitors can bring home enough white truffles to last them a lifetime, and hone their cooking skills in the process. In addition to the delicious truffle flavors, tourists will be able to attend guided tours of the Castle of Roddi, and learn about Italian folklore in their free time.

    During the holiday season, Rome transforms into a wonderland of festive displays and attractions. Particularly, the Christmas Market on Piazza Navona hosts an array of local treats for the whole family. Visitors can sample the local Italian delicacies, like vin brulé, a smoky mulled wine, castagne arrosto (roasted chestnuts), or pandoro, a festively shaped sweet Italian cake. These treats make the perfect snacking companion to the festive fair rides, toy shops, and puppet shows you will want to see in Piazza Navona. Dining near the Christmas Market is also the perfect opportunity to try some authentic pasta carbonara or cacio e pepe, Rome’s regional specialty.

    Read the original article on Explore.

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  • It’s time to meet your neighbor across the world, says Rick Steves. It starts with travel.

    It’s time to meet your neighbor across the world, says Rick Steves. It starts with travel.

    Rick Steves taking a break from filming in Italy’s Dolomites. Steves visited Charlotte to speak at a lecture for the World Affairs Council of Charlotte on Thursday, Feb. 15.

    Rick Steves taking a break from filming in Italy’s Dolomites. Steves visited Charlotte to speak at a lecture for the World Affairs Council of Charlotte on Thursday, Feb. 15.

    Courtesy of Rick Steves’ Europe

    A little over halfway through his lecture, travel writer and TV personality Rick Steves quoted the prophet Mohammad: “Don’t tell me how educated you are, tell me how much you have traveled.”

    The message, which was delivered to the World Affairs Council of Charlotte on Thursday evening at the Knight Theater, may not have been a direct quote of his own but fell in line with his overall thesis: You have to get out there to better understand, not only the world, but yourself and the worldview around you.

    It was Steves’ third trip to Charlotte with his last visit taking place in 2013. He said he’s always impressed with the city. “It just seems like a very smart, modern city. I like it. It reminds me I should get up and get to know our country a little better.”

    The celebrated travel writer and host of Rick Steves’ Europe on PBS said he has traveled 100 days a year for decades and mostly in Europe (which he refers to as his “beat”.) “When you write a chapter, you hope it has a long life and then you just tweak it every year when you visit. That’s generally the case, but certain things have major changes,” he said.

    “Berlin used to be two cities, now it’s one after the fall of the wall. So, you’ve got to bite the bullet and reconfigure the whole chapter because it’s been redesigned… when I made the initial review of all these countries, deciding what would be in the book, it’s pretty accurate. But you realize, oh, I should have done that city and then you go to that city and you like it and you have to add to the book.”

    To him, Europe is the springboard for traveling abroad. He said he encourages Americans to venture “past Orlando.”

    “There’s a general affluence (to Europe). When I started traveling, there were a lot of no star hotels. Now, they don’t have any no star hotels. Everything’s good. Everything has potential,” he said.

    Rick Steves conducting guidebook research in Bern, Switzerland. Steves visited Charlotte to speak at a lecture for the World Affairs Council of Charlotte on Thursday, Feb. 15.
    Rick Steves conducting guidebook research in Bern, Switzerland. Steves visited Charlotte to speak at a lecture for the World Affairs Council of Charlotte on Thursday, Feb. 15. Courtesy of Rick Steves’ Europe

    “The second cities are great in Europe… Of course we want to go to Edinburgh but you’ve got to check out Glasgow. Of course you want to visit Lisbon but you should check out Porto. You want to go to Paris, but you have got to see Marseilles. All of the crowds are in those first cities, none of the crowds are in the second cities. So if you want to get out of the crowds, you can do it. But most people don’t prioritize (that).”

    As an American, it is easy to be sucked into the concept that we’re treading on Europe as the “ugly American tourists” – armed with big sunglasses and hats, snapping pictures everywhere and funneling out of tour buses in front of the Roman Coliseum or Big Ben like cattle. But Steves says that perception is more restrained among Europeans than it might be portrayed in the media.

    “I think the perceptions of the American government (in Europe) goes up and down.. sometimes they don’t like our policies. But when you travel, they don’t know what party you are. They don’t know what your politics are. You’re just a person from the United States and they’re happy to see you,” Steves said.

    “I’m always impressed by how they cut us slack in our politics and you’re just seen as an interesting visitor from far away. If you’re curious and if you’re not judgmental, and if you’re there to learn and have a good time, Europeans would love to be your friend.”

    For Steves embodies transformational travel when he makes his 100 day trek away from home, and while he understands that a traveler or pilgrim style trip is not what everyone would want, he encourages Americans to give it a try to better expand their understanding of who people really are across the world rather than what they’re designated to through sound bites or television news clips during major events.

    Steves recalls a recent trip to Iran, where amidst the “Death to America” propaganda streamed down buildings, he found a people that weren’t too far from our own.

    “You go to Iran and you realize they’re essentially just like us. They’ve got their frustrations with the government. Our government is more responsive, their government will lock you up or torture you if you do something wrong,” he said.

    “I’d love for us to go and get to know the enemy, it’s tougher for them. They understand this better, it’s tougher for them to dehumanize us and for us to demonize them with our propaganda. It’s a constructive thing (to visit).”

    At the end of the day, Steves wants you to leave every trip with some sense of perspective either on the place you just visited or yourself. As in the Mohammad quote before, Steves wants to know how many people you met and how many memories you made of human interaction rather than how many memorable sites you checked off your list or how many countries you got to.

    “It’s never not constructive to travel and talk to people. I’m a coastal elite, privileged white guy that travels a lot and has all these highfalutin ideas. It’s important for me to get out and talk to people around the country and find out what people’s life stories are. My worldview is shaped by something and the person over there is shaped by something else,” he said.

    “It’s good to know each other.”

    Steves’ work can be found at ricksteves.com and on PBS where his television program airs. This is the third visit he has made to Charlotte to speak with the World Affairs Council, the last time being in 2013.

    Rick Steves photographed for New York Times Magazine.
    Rick Steves photographed for New York Times Magazine. Zachary Scott Courtesy of Rick Steves’ Europe

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