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The 20 Best Travel Shows on Netflix to Watch in 2024

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Whether you’ve been missing the thrill of traveling or are currently feeling inspired to pick the destination for your next adventure, travel shows can help. Netflix has no shortage of cool travel documentaries and shows, but we’ve decided to pick 20 of the best travel shows on Netflix.

If you’re traveling right now, or if some of these shows are not available in your country, use a VPN to access them without any restrictions. To play the shows, open up your VPN app and select a server located in a different state. If the show is available in your country, but you’re currently traveling internationally, choose the server of your home country to enjoy the show. 

Now let me tell you why these Netflix travel shows are worth watching and don’t blame me if you get hooked on some (or all) of them.

The best travel shows on Netflix

Before we start, let me tell you that this list is in no particular order. It’s up to you to choose the one you want to watch first, but we recommend watching them all. At home, traveling for a holiday, or at a new destination, these Netflix travel shows and documentaries will set you in the mood for discovering new places, tasting exotic food, maybe even cycling, driving, or just staying at home until you finish all the seasons. Lol 

The list is divided into travel shows or documentaries focused on nature, food, dark tourism, cycling and cars, photography, family travels, and specific destinations. Enjoy it!

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The best travel and nature Netflix shows 

Arguably one of the most famous travel documentaries on Netflix, Our Planet takes you on a world tour of earth’s fascinating creatures. Narrated by Sir David Attenborough and filmed in Ultra High Definition, this show takes you to over 50 countries and perfectly captures the wonders of the earth. 

Our Planet is the perfect Netflix travel show to give you some new ideas for your bucket list. Trust us!

Untamed Romania

While most seasoned travelers deeply appreciate Romania’s natural beauty, it is still overlooked in the mainstream media. Untamed Romania is a feature-length film celebrating the country’s immaculate wildlife.

Untamed Romania is one of the best Netflix travel documentaries for those who love nature and want to discover a new destination to travel to.

The best travel and food Netflix shows 

Down to Earth

Down to Earth documentary follows Zac Efron, the actor, and wellness expert Darin Olien as they explore healthy and sustainable practices across different cultures. This documentary showcases the diversity and creativity seen across the globe to make the most of one’s resources.

It’s intriguing and can be inspiring, not only about travel but how we think of sustainability and health. 

Street Food Asia

Sometimes the most accessible way to connect to a different culture is food. Asian food holds a special place in the world regarding street food and is probably one of the most universally beloved cuisines today. Street Food Asia takes you on a food journey across Asia and Southeast Asia’s best food cities, including Bangkok, Delhi, Osaka, and Singapore.

Street Food Asia is one of our fave travel shows on Netflix. We love Asia and Asian delights you can only find from street vendors. If you have never visited this part of the world, watch this show, and it will open your mind to a new world of flavors, aromas, and ways of life. If you are craving an Asia trip, watch it and plan international travel soon. 

Also, read our guides and articles about Asian destinations as they have many travel and food recommendations. Read our guides about Thailand , Vietnam , Indonesia , Malaysia , The Philippines , China , Taiwan, India , and Cambodia .

Ugly Delicious

Ugly Delicious is another food travel show where a star chef David Chang is looking for the world’s most satisfying grub with his buddies. Despite being a professional chef, Chang isn’t pretentious with his picks and takes us on a cross-cultural food trip filled with laughter.

Another great travel and food show on Netflix about food culture.

Somebody Feed Phil

In this series, we follow the creator of Everybody Loves Raymond, Phil Rosenthal, as he explores world cuisines and meets the locals. Phil’s upbeat attitude is probably one of the best parts of the Somebody Feed Phil travel show together with a lot of food scenes that will help your plan your future trip to incredible destinations including Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

On this Netflix travel show, you will visit cities like Bangkok , spend days in Mexico City , see Lisbon , and many more. Well-known travel destinations are pictured with flavors and a local touch.

High on The Hog: Culinary Journey From Africa to America

This show explores African American soul food and its long journey from Africa to North America. It has been dubbed the most engaging history of African American cuisine. It traces the process of cultivating, harvesting, cooking, and serving the food that enslaved Africans brought with them to the States.

This Netflix cultural travel and food show will take you on a true gastronomic journey. 

Restaurants on the Edge

As you might be able to guess from the name of the show, these hour-long episodes take us to restaurants that are located in some of the most stunning locations in the world but are struggling with their menus and dishes. They are located on the edge of the world but are also on the edge of closing down.

This travel show on Netflix pictures unique locations and a bit of drama, as you can expect. 

Netflix shows about travel, cycling and cars

Biking Borders

This one is for lovers of slow traveling and less-known countries. Two friends go on a 15,000 km bicycle journey worldwide, including the Balkans, Central Asia, and other countries, to build a school in Guatemala.

Rob and I love cycling, so this Netflix travel documentary series is tremendously appealing to us. Biking Borders is also an excellent travel inspiration for those who dream of traveling by bike or going on a cycling holiday. And if this is you, read our article about cycling on Taiwan’s East Coast and cycling in Spain .

Pedal the World

This is another Netflix travel documentary that portrays a world tour on wheels, but this time our protagonist visits 22 countries during his year-long journey, searching for the meaning in life and discovering something new in each country.

Pedal the World is an inspiring and realistic epic road trip that might give you ideas of how you want to spend your life and what really matters. 

Paul Hollywood’s Big Continental Road Trip

Paul Hollywood studies the ties between popular cars in Europe and their local culture and identity as an actor and a baker. In this short but educational Netflix documentary , Hollywood will visit France, Germany, and Italy.

This isn’t your Netflix show if you are looking for food and baking goods. But if you like cars, speed, a bit of history and traveling in Europe, you will enjoy the ride. 

Netflix travel shows about a specific destination

Katla  

This travel series focuses on Iceland, specifically the volcano Katla , which began constantly erupting just recently. The show has eight episodes and does a wonderful job portraying Iceland’s breathtaking beauty . Katla serves as a great reminder of all that we still don’t know about the earth. 

This Netflix travel show is a powerful trigger for wanderlust, and it will make you want to book a trip to Iceland as soon as possible. 

Magic Andes

A documentary following five characters from the Andes, South America’s breathtaking mountains. It is a fascinating series that highlights real people living in communities located under the mountains and paints a nuanced picture of the region of Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia .

After watching Magic Andes read our Peru travel guides , and for sure, you will want to visit South América. If you are worried about safety, then read our guide to the safest countries in South America , and you will be surprised. 

Guatemala: Heart of the Mayan World

This documentary focuses on Guatemala’s rich landscape and culture, the territory where 2000 years ago, the fascinating Mayan civilization collapsed. The Mayan influence is still all over Guatemala and Central America, and this documentary does an amazing job of connecting the dots between the past and the present.

Guatemala: Heart of the Mayan World is an inspiring Netflix travel documentary that will add interesting facts to your travel knowledge, and it might make you want to explore more of Latin America. 

Zulu Man in Japan

Starring South African rapper Nasty C, this Netflix travel documentary focuses on Japanese culture. The film takes place in Tokyo, where Nasty C explores the city’s go-to places, culture, sounds, and much more.

Zulu Man in Japan was released in 2019. It’s a 44-minute episode, perfect for those days that you want to have just a little dose of wanderlust knowing that you won’t be addicted to long travel series. 

The best Netflix travel show for unusual tourists

Dark Tourist

Filmed by journalist David Farrier, the author of the 2016 hit documentary Tickled, Dark Tourist takes a different approach to tourism. Farrier travels to places associated with death or tragedies that have turned these destinations into tourist attractions. You can expect anything from haunted places, nuclear lakes, and unusual and weird destinations. Those spots might not be on your travel bucket list, but it is interesting to know that they exist so you can avoid them on your next holiday. 

It’s one of the most-watched travel shows on Netflix, so it’s worth trying.

Netflix show for photography and travel lovers

Tales by Light

Created by Abraham Joffe, this show embraces the art of travel photography and film and the people behind them. This is an Australian documentary/reality travel series on Netflix that follows photographers around the globe as they chase that perfect shot.

This Netflix travel documentary is a good match for those who love photography and travel. It’s perfect for inspiring you to travel and photograph more. 

The best Netflix show about traveling with family

Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father

A comedian Jack Whitehall and his uptight father, Michael Whitehall, travel across the world together. The show starts with Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia, with the second season focusing on Eastern Europe. The third season explores the American West, the fourth features Australia, and the fifth is all about the United Kingdom, their homeland. On this last season expect everything from dining with Gordon Ramsay to searching for the Loch Ness monster.

A great Netflix travel show for those thinking of traveling with family. It also sparkes a reflection of our relationships with parents and how travel can be a good way to get together or break apart.

Netflix show that combines travel and design

Cabins in the Wild

This show takes place in Wales and follows engineer Dick Strawbridge and craftsman Will Hardie as they inspect eight unique cabins built for a pop-up hotel in Wales. Their final goal is to construct a cabin of their own.

If you like the British Tv series, chances are you will love Cabins in the Wild as well. If you like architecture and construction shows too. This type of Netflix show combines different elements, from traveling to design, making you want to have a cabin in the wild just for you. 

We end our list of the 20 best Netflix travel shows here. Drop us a comment if you have watched any of them or if you have any other good travel series to recommend. 

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4 thoughts on “The 20 Best Travel Shows on Netflix to Watch in 2024”

I’m so glad you mentioned The Latchkees! I’ve been obsessed with their adventures since I saw their episode on Netflix. It’s amazing how they make travel look so effortless and fun. I’m definitely adding some of the other shows on your list to my queue 😍

Such a great show!

I can’t believe I never knew about some of these shows! The Travel Diaries is definitely going on my watchlist. 😍

Glad you enjoyed it!

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Given what’s happening nowadays, I’m sure that your travel plans have been thwarted — BUT, that doesn’t mean that you can’t have some fun right in the comfort of your own home! (Best Travel Shows on Netflix)

For sure, you can start off with the best travel movies ; though if you’re more into TV shows, there are tons for you to enjoy! After all, with platforms like Amazon Prime, Hulu, Netflix, and YouTube among many others, there is an endless number of binge-worthy shows to fill up your time starting today.

So for those of us who are specifically seeking a touch of adventure and wanderlust (until it’s possible) , below are some of the best travel shows that you can find on Netflix!

In no particular order , the following 10 series range from must-do foodie eats, up to exotic escapades all over the world!

Table of Contents

10 Best Travel Shows on Netflix

» Street Food

( Show link / 1 Season – 9 Episodes)

“From the creators of Chef’s Table, comes a new mouth-watering documentary series that celebrates the local heroes of street food in Thailand, India, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam.”

Highlighting street vendors in over 9 different cities in Asia, you’ll be delighted with the sights and sounds as you discover not only the food they specialize in, but also the stories they will be sharing! It also helps that each episode is about 30 minutes, so it is quite an easy watch — and of course, make sure to take note of the places so you can visit and try them in the future.

» Our Planet

( Show link / 1 Season – 8 Episodes)

“Share the wonder of the extraordinary place we call home. Utilizing the latest technology Our Planet was filmed entirely in Ultra High Definition in over 50 countries. From exotic jungles to the deepest seas, open your eyes to the connections we all share. Narrated by Sir David Attenborough.”

This is obviously one of those science or nature series, but with the number of wonderful sights, this is easily one of the best travel shows that you will sit through in (while also learning a lot of interesting facts along the way). In fact, you’ll definitely find yourself charting a bucket list to witness some of the finest places that this Netflix show will feature.

» Dark Tourist

“The definition of “tourism” is redefined as New Zealand filmmaker David Farrier, who journeyed into the darkest corners of the internet in the hit 2016 documentary Tickled, sets his sights on the world of dark tourism.”

If you’re seeking something different from most of the travel shows that you’ve seen so far, Dark Tourist is a great choice for witnessing some of the world’s lesser-known cultures and traditions. So get ready to pick up some great off-the-beaten-path travel ideas for the future!

» Conan Without Borders

( Show link / 1 Season – 6 Episodes)

“Late-night talk show host Conan O’Brien hits the road in this special that brings him and his sense of humor to far-flung destinations.”

For a dose of comedy and humor, this series of Conan O’Brien will be a sound option. This is actually a collection of his travel segments, but I can assure you: they are worth watching, especially if you want some good ol’ entertainment!

» Somebody Feed Phil

( Show link / 2 Seasons – 12 Episodes)

“Travel the globe with Phil Rosenthal, the creator of “Everybody Loves Raymond,” as he explores the world and makes new connections through food. Somebody Feed Phil. Now streaming.”

I’m not gonna lie: Phil can be a pretty awkward guy — BUT that is, in part, the beauty of this show. He brings forth this infectious energy that’s charming and fuzzy. Plus, you’ll be able to see the wonderful connections that he will make as he indulges in such delectables meals all over the world!

» Tales by Light

( Show link / 3 Seasons – 21 Episodes)

“Uniting exploration, photography and the natural world, Tales by Light offers a rare glimpse into the eyes and minds of some of Australia and the world’s best photographic storytellers – Art Wolfe, Darren Jew, Krystle Wright, Richard I’Anson and Peter Eastway.”

If you’re looking for unique travel shows on Netflix with insane imagery, Tales by Light is surely right up your alley as it follows some of the world’s best photographers who have devoted their life to finding the best shots in any corner of the globe.

» Restaurants On The Edge

“Each hour-long episode invites viewers into a new restaurant located in a stunning location—on the edge of an ocean, a mountain, or desert. But despite their outstanding views, these eateries are struggling to create an experience that lives up to their incredible surroundings.”

If there are reality shows about house makeovers then, of course, there are restaurant makeovers too! But before you gloss over this show, it helps to note that apart from improving the menu and assisting the owners with the assistance of a world-class restaurateur, chef, and designer, the show also puts great emphasis on the location in turning things around. With that said, you’ll definitely find a good focus on the location’s culture and specialties.

» Ugly Delicious

“All the flavor. None of the BS. Star chef David Chang leads friends on a mouthwatering, cross-cultural hunt for the world’s most satisfying grub.”

Unlike what the title says, not every dish is actually ugly; but, you will love Chang’s unpretentious take on things as he travels and eats to places that will leave your mouth watering. With that said, this is yet another travel personality that has one of the best travel shows centering around food — if not life in general.

» Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father

( Show link / 3 Seasons – 13 Episodes)

“Comic Jack Whitehall and his father, Michael, are like an odd couple — the son is jovial and the patriarch is stuffy. So traveling together makes for an interesting dynamic, as viewers experience in this travelogue series.”

Watching this show was like watching myself traveling with my parents; but with more comedy and more mishaps. As one of the best travel shows on Netflix, it really makes for a hilarious watch not only with your family but even with your friends!

» The Kindness Diaries

( Show link / 1 Season – 13 Episodes)

“Host Leon Logothetis travels the world with only a vintage motorbike and the kindness of strangers, which he pays back in unexpected, inspiring ways.”

This might seem like a bit of a weird premise at first, but you’ll be surprised at how the show is able to highlight the wonderful connections between people — no matter the difference in culture and background.

» BONUS: Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

( Show link / 12 Seasons)

“In the hourlong weekend series — similar in premise to Travel’s “No Reservations” — Bourdain explores the world to, he says, “ eat and drink with people without fear and prejudice … they open up to you in ways that somebody visiting who is driven by a story may not get. “

This show actually used to be on Netflix, but not anymore — nonetheless, I still feel the need to mention this because no ‘best travel shows’ list is ever complete without mentioning this legend!

These are just just some of the many ways that you can hype yourself up until your next big trip! Enjoy!

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This is a great list! Thank you for sharing :D

This is a great list! Thank you, I can now have something to binge watch these days

I’m happy to hear that! Happy watching :D

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The Best Travel Shows On Netflix Right Now, Ranked

Last Updated: November 12th

There’s rarely been a time in recent history in which travel has been more out of reach. That means we all have to live out our travel dreams vicariously for now. Enter the travel TV genre — our most straightforward path to inspirational and aspirational escapism .

No network has changed the game more in recent years than Netflix when it comes to providing a great list of travel shows that’ll motivate you to hit the road one day while scratching that wanderlust itch between trips. But this being Netflix, there’s a dearth of content to sort through. Knowing where to start and which shows are worth your binging time is tough.

We’re here to help. The fifteen travel series below are the best Netflix has to offer right now. We’ve gone ahead and ranked them, though we have to point out that these rankings represent minor quibbles at most. We also tried to cover multiple types of travel shows from the standard food+travel series to nature shows to reality TV travel escapism.

Let’s dive in!

15. Restaurants On The Edge

1 season, 6 episodes | IMDb: 6.8/10

The “fixer-up” aspect of reality TV is a tried and true concept. Gordon Ramsay has umpteen shows doing just that. Where Restaurants on the Edge stands out is the travel and cultural aspect of the show. Restaurateur Nick Liberato, chef Dennis Prescott, and designer Karin Bohn travel the world and find restaurants with amazing views that are on the edge of shutting down (something that’s become even more heightened given recent global events). They team up with the restaurant’s chefs and owners to turn the place around. The ripple here is that the hosts guide the local owners to delve more deeply into the local culture and have their establishments better represent that scene.

14. Stay Here

1 season, 8 episodes | IMDb: 7.5/10

Designer Genevieve Gorder and real estate expert Peter Lorimer join forces in Stay Here to help homeowners turn their spaces into short-term vacation rentals. This is all about Airbnb’ing your digs even though “ Airbnb ” is never mentioned. This is a fun and breezy travel show that goes deep enough to show you how much works goes into the sharing-economy to make it actually work for you. In the end, you’ll have a whole new appreciation for that perfect Airbnb you stayed in.

13. The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes

2 seasons, 12 episodes | IMDb: 7.6/10

This show is addictive. Let’s get this out of the way. This is luxury and lifestyle porn first and foremost. It’s a traveling show, we guess, by proxy. However, it’s intoxicating.

The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes takes us inside architectural wonders around the world. These range from the homes of the elites in places like Greece, Los Angeles, and New Zealand to the homes of a fisherman in Japan and writers in Holland. Hosts Piers Taylor (an architect) and Caroline Quentin (a British actor) offer a great entry point. Taylor offers professional insight, while Quentin is the audience’s awed surrogate.

12. Tales By Light

3 seasons, 18 episodes | IMDb: 8.3/10

Tales By Light isn’t your average travel show per se. The focus here is on great travel photographers and how they operate around the world.

The photographers the show follows just happen to be some of the best in the world who have devoted their life to globetrotting to find the absolute best shot. Every corner of the world is covered over three seasons of breathtaking episodes and crazy escapades.

Seriously, one episode is about swimming with anacondas in the Amazon.

11. Night On Earth

1 season, 6 episodes | IMDb: 8.2/10

Shows like Night On Earth offer a glimpse into the world that beckons you out into the wider world. These are the shows that lay a foundation of wanderlust in our young souls. On top of all of that, this show is visually mesmerizing. It’s a trippy, unique, and captivating look at our world, and it’ll make you want to be someone who seeks these places out.

10. High On The Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America

1 Season, 4 Episodes | IMDb: 7.7/10

High on the Hog is based on the seminal work of Dr. Jessica Harris and her breaking down of how African food cultures mingled with Indigenous American foods and European techniques to help define what American food is today. The show is a sort of short-hand for Dr. Harris’ work and book, with chef and writer Stephen Satterfield trekking around America and West Africa looking back at the origins of African American cuisines, where those foods are today, and profiling the people keeping those traditions alive. This is the sort of travel show that will stick with you while teaching crucial history about Black Americans’ impact on the food we eat today.

9. Our Planet

1 season, 8 episodes | IMDb: 9.3/10

Our Planet is Netflix’s very own Planet Earth . They even got Sir David Attenborough to narrate this beautiful series. Again, yes, this is a nature series. But, we argue that a series this intriguing and beguiling will stoke your wanderlust fires and get you out there enjoying everything nature has to offer. If this series doesn’t get you itching to see new places on our planet, nothing will.

8. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

1 season, 4 episodes | IMDb: 6.8/10

David Chang’s second Netflix travel and food show is a little broader than Ugly Delicious . This four-part series finds Chang hanging out with big-name celebrities and diving into local food scenes around the world. Seth Rogan shows Chang around Vancouver while getting very stoned. Internet star and model Chrissy Teigen wanders around Marrakesh with the chef. Writer and actor Lena Waithe takes Chang through her Los Angeles. Finally, the show’s final ( and best ) episode finds Chang hanging out with SNL superstar Kate McKinnon in Cambodia. Overall, this is an easy, fun watch to breeze through on a shut-in Sunday.

7. Ugly Delicious

2 seasons, 12 episodes | IMDb: 7.8/10

Chef David Chang’s food show, Ugly Delicious , is a travel show at its heart. Chang travels the world eating food and talking to people about culture, life, and what they do while experiencing it all for himself — that’s all travel really is. The beauty of the show lies in the lack of pretension — a child-like curiosity really — that Chang carries with him as he travels, talks, and eats. The way Chang travels becomes aspirational with a crazy good dose of food porn along for the ride.

6. Larry Charles’ Dangerous World Of Comedy

1 season, 4 episodes | IMDb: 7.3/10

Larry Charles’ Dangerous World Of Comedy is a travel show at its heart. Acclaimed TV and film comedy director, Larry Charles, travels the world seeking out how comedy is done in war zones, on Indian reservations, in theocracies, in slums, and beyond.

This is the sort of show that takes you deep inside the harder side of life around the world. It’s a part behind-the-scenes look at TV comedy around and a part subversive travelogue with a keen eye on finding the grey areas of life and comedy in places few dare to travel. Plus, it’s only four one-hour episodes, making this one a very easy binge.

5. Dark Tourist

1 season, 8 episodes | IMDb: 7.6/10

David Farrier’s Dark Tourist isn’t what you think it is . This isn’t about the western gaze, looking down upon the weird or “other.” Farrier’s nuanced approach to travel and diversity shines through as he parses some of the lesser-known parts of varying cultures.

The show shines in its ability to hook you in from the first frames. Episodes about vampires in New Orleans, Pablo Escobar’s hitmen, and haunted forests offer a glimpse into the unknown in our world without judgment.

4. Somebody Feed Phil

4 seasons, 22 episodes | IMDb: 8.2/10

Phil Rosenthal has cut out a pretty great second act after his days running Everybody Loves Raymond . Rosenthal is traveling around the world eating great food, meeting people, and seeing new places he thought he’d never see.

Rosenthal is on a trip of discovery. There’s a clear food focus to the show. But, really, the series ends up being just as much about the journey as a great meal with new friends.

3. Street Food

2 season, 15 episodes | IMDb: 8/10

This series from the creators of Chef’s Table leans more heavily into the travel aspect of great cooking. The series highlights street food vendors across East Asia, Mexico, and Central and South America through two seasons. The series revels in letting those vendors tell their stories and highlighting the food they make with that now iconic Chef’s Table aesthetic . The bonus is that each episode clocks in at around 30 minutes, making this a very easy and enjoyable binge any time.

2. MeatEater

3 seasons, 29 episodes | IMDb: 7.8/10

This is probably the most interesting and unique travel (and food) show on this list. Steve Rinella’s MeatEater might be the best nature-meets-travel-meets-food show, full stop. Rinella and his crew travel around the U.S., Mexico, and even parts of South America to embrace nature in the most visceral way, through hunting and fishing for their own food and then cooking that food, providing us with wild recipes to boot. We’re not kidding when we say that the wild places this show goes are the places you almost never see on the average travel show, which is usually obsessed with hitting the same old spots over and over again (looking at you Rosenthal and Chang).

Yes, hunting or fishing for food is the core of each trip. Still, with sourcing your own wild food being one of the fastest-growing food movements in America (far outpacing veganism with people under 40), MeatEater offers real-world advice as an entry-point to the wild spaces of the world and the food available therein. It’s also about the people around the world who live their lives in harmony with nature. Add in the beautiful cinematography (from the same crew as Bourdain’s shows) and you have a great watch.

1. Down to Earth with Zac Efron

1 season, 8 episodes | IMDb: 8.1/10

This show was the sleeper hit of the travel TV world in 2020. Yes, it premiered during a pandemic when we can’t travel, making it an easy hit. But the show really has some serious heart and insight. Viewing the world through Zac Efron’s always wide-eyes proved really refreshing. His excitement to be seeing the world and trying on new ideas while also making an effort to step out of the most well-worn paths made for solid TV.

There’s a real soul to this show that gets to what’s beautiful about travel. It captures the spirit of wanderlust — learning about the world while learning about yourself.

Best Netflix Travel Shows

The best Netflix travel shows on the streaming service right now

With a library as vast as Netflix has, it's hard to pick out the best Netflix travel shows, but we're here to help you with that. 

Of course, it's ironic that just as the world opens up again post-pandemic, the cost of living has sky-rocketed. We guess that means putting off that week by the beach in Barcelona once again. Sigh. 

Still, there’s always armchair travel…no, stay with us! Netflix has a stellar supply of shows to watch for those suffering from a bad case of wanderlust; from food-focused odysseys and challenge-based travels to light-hearted looks at other global cultures with some incredible scenery providing the backdrop.

Whether it’s European mini-breaks or South-East Asian vacations that get you dreaming of far-off places, here’s 10 of the best to inspire your next travels. Just think of them as extra research for that bucket list trip...

Ugly Delicious

A fast-paced travelogue fusing food and travel together - well, why mess with a classic combination? - sees David Chang, boss of noodle giant Momofuku, weigh in on all the most important food items and how different cultures across the globe make them. 

Obviously, that means pizza from Italy, but an elevated slice of the pie in Tokyo; tacos from a celebrated food truck in LA, but a twist on the traditional in Mexico from Noma restaurant. Good travel series push the imagination and our world views and this certainly gives us our fill. 

Waffles + Mochi

On the face of it, this is cute show for kids, which is executive-produced by and stars Michelle Obama, no less, but it's actually one of the best examples of a series doing the double by being both entertaining for children and adults. 

A show based around a moon boot-wearing creature made from frozen waffles and mochi ball made sentient might not make any sense whatsoever, but who cares when it’s this joyous? The two puppet buddies - who work at a supermarket, alongside Ms. Obama - learn about different foods, and travel the world doing it; from whizzing up high in the Andes to try potatoes to searching out the best herbs and spices from a market in Venice, Italy. 

The bromance of South Korean singer-actor Lee Seung-gi and Taiwanese favourite Jasper Liu is at the heart of this 2020 series; as the pair are challenged by fans to missions across Asia, despite speaking different languages. Challenge accepted! 

Taking in stunning locations across Indonesia, Thailand and Nepal the duo prove they’re more than just handsome faces as they triumph in treasure hunts and games like rock, paper, scissors to end up in the final destination of Seoul. Kind of like Squid Game, on the road, but without all the death.   

The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals

If your thumbs idly end up scrolling the Airbnb app in your down time; then this is the show for you. Three intrepid explorers - okay, hosts with seemingly unlimited expense accounts - travel the world to find the best places to rest your head on holiday. It’s not all luxury cabins on stilts in the Maldives though, as the series prides itself on catering for all budgets and all tastes. 

Top of our wishlist is the Area 55 prefab Futuro glamping pod ($225 a night), or the glass-domed eco-lodge - complete with sauna - in the heart of a Finnish winter wonderland (a casual $500 per night). Time to get saving.  

Down To Earth With Zac Efron

Zac Efron, you say? Tween heartthrob from High School Musical, Zac Efron? Yep, but he’s now the poster boy for sustainable travel, segueing into an unexpected career choice back in 2020's Down To Earth With Zac Efron. 

With big bro-on-a-gap-year energy, Zac travels to places like Iceland, Sardinia, Peru and the Amazon to learn about eco-living and renewable energy, which is much more interesting than it initially sounds, and is arguably the way we should all be thinking about travelling now.  

Big Narstie's Big Jamaica

“Man’s off on a mission to the motherland: Jamaica,” the big-selling rapper Big Narstie informs us at the beginning of this 2020 travel doc, and we’re honoured to be able to join him. Both the rapper’s parents hail from Jamaica, and he jets off home again with a candid and witty look into dancehall culture and the food scene. 

Cut to some incredible looking munchies: a mix of Jamaican and Chinese food from the Jamaican equivalent of a “motorway caff”. “My belly comes first!” Narstie says. Naturally.  

Travels With My Father

Like him or loathe him, there’s something quite enjoyable about Jack Whitehall travelling the world with his cantankerous old dad who “hates being away from home”. 

The father-and-son duo take on places like Thailand, Romania and Australia over five series, and even if you fall on the side of ‘loathe’ it’s always amusing watching Jack get cut down to size by his no-nonsense father, sorry, “Daddy”. Very much playing up to the ‘posh Brits on tour’ stereotype, this sometimes definitely scripted series won’t do much for our nation’s reputation around the world, but it does make for a fun watch. 

There’s light-entertainment travel japes like the Whitehall family’s adventures above: then there’s death-defying expeditions that could only be described as extreme holidaying. 14 Peaks is definitely the latter, as it follows British-Nepalese high-altitude climber, Nirmal Purja, as he tries to ascend all of the world’s 14 8,000-feet high mountains within seven months. 

Hiking up insanely dangerous summits - that require oxygen masks after 7,500 feet - across China, Pakistan and Nepal, this documentary also tracks the heady heights of human endurance. Does he manage what he sets out to achieve? Well, we’ll leave that up to you to find out.    

Expedition Happiness

A hipster German couple decide to sack off Berlin and take up #vanlife instead in this self-filmed documentary. Mogli - aka Selima - and her boyfriend Felix (who previously filmed himself cycling around the world for the Netflix doc Pedal The World) buy an old American school bus for $9,500, convert it into the most bijoux of apartments-on-wheels and as they plan to travel from Alaska to Argentina. 

After a hairy moment when it looks like US immigration won’t give them a visa, soon they’re on the road, travelling through gorgeous mountain vistas and turquoise lakes and the pretty, colourful small towns of Mexico. There are mishaps along the way - and they have to divert their trip at the last moment - but it’s nice to be along for the ride. 

Dark Tourist

 Still gutted you can’t hop on a plane to paradise right now? Honestly, watching this show you might well be glad your bum has made a permanent imprint on your sofa. 

The host, Kiwi journalist David Farrier, explores the dark underside of tourism; from border crossing re-enactments in Mexico and Manson family murder tours to a visit to the still highly radioactive Fukushima nuclear power plant and - disturbingly - being shown the latest military weapons in Phnom Penh. Perhaps another staycation isn’t so bad after all...

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Laura Martin is an entertainment journalist who covers TV, film, and music. She's written for numerous big publications, including TechRadar, Esquire, BBC Culture, The Guardian, and The i newspaper. Her favourite stories usually involve prestige TV drama, reality TV, or true-life documentaries. Basically, the more obscure, the better!

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23 Binge-worthy Travel Documentaries on Netflix (2023)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 3, 2023

If you enjoy watching travel shows (whether for inspiration or research) you are in for a treat with this selection of the best travel documentaries on Netflix in 2023

This eclectic list of Netflix travel documentaries and series will take you across every continent to meet the people, cultures, history and geography, natural wonders and wildlife that make up our beautiful planet.

Chosen by travel bloggers this is a selection of the best travel documentaries available on Netflix around the world.

Please bear in mind that not all these shows may be available on Netflix in your location ! If you would like unrestricted access to 15 Netflix libraries around the world (including Germany/USA/UK) we recommend Surfshark VPN. You only need 1 subscription to cover every gadget in your house. Click here for more information about Surfshark

Taco Chronicles

With surfshark vpn you can, dark tourist, down to earth, grand tours of the scottish islands, expedition happiness.

• Chef's Table

Somebody Feed Phil

Extreme engagement.

• Joanna Lumley's India

Chasing Coral

Magical andes, cuba and the cameraman, jack whitehall travels with my father, restaurants on the edge, tales by light, christiane amanpour: sex & love around the world, the serpent, the dawn wall, my octopus teacher, anthony bourdain: parts unknown, street food series (latin america and asia), more tv shows & movies from countries around the world, 23 best travel documentaries on netflix.

If you didn’t love the idea of eating tacos in Mexico City already, Taco Chronicles will make sure you do! In fact, you’ll discover that there’s even more to authentic Mexican tacos than you ever knew about.

In Taco Chronicles, you’ll go on a taco journey to Mexico City and beyond, to discover the unique types of tacos eaten in Mexico’s various regions and states. The show does start off in Mexico City, with the king of Mexican tacos — the taco al pastor.

From Mexico City, enjoy a virtual Mexican culinary food tour to its neighbouring state of Hidalgo, home of barbacoa (BBQ) tacos. Beyond Central Mexico, this food and travel documentary takes you all over Mexico.

In subsequent episodes of this two-season show, you’ll discover cochinita pibil (slow-roasted suckling pig) tacos in the Yucatan Peninsula, fried fish tacos in Baja California state on the west coast, cabrito (goat) tacos in Northern Mexico, and more.

Places/countries featured – Mexico

Chosen by Shelley of Travel Mexico Solo

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Over recent years, the public’s fascination with dark tourism destinations has boomed. Sites such as Chernobyl and Auschwitz draw in thousands of tourists every year. With so many of the population sharing a fascination for dark history, it is no wonder that so many have tuned into Netflix’s ‘Dark Tourist. 

The show follows journalist David Farrier as he travels around hoping to experience the most macabre destinations that the world has to offer. Farrier’s quest to unearth the morbid takes him to several high profile dark tourism destinations, including the site of the Fukushima nuclear disaster, on a JFK assassination tour and he even witnesses an exorcism in Mexico City.  

Although Farrier sometimes comes across as a mediocre Louis Theroux, this thought-provoking travel show succeeds in its aim and transports you into the unknown. The result is an interesting series that explores the darker side of life (and death).

Chosen by Sheree   of Winging the World

In the Netflix series Down To Earth , actor Zac Efron and wellness author Darin Olien travel across the globe learning about the wellness and sustainability efforts being made in numerous destinations.

Each of the eight episodes focuses on a different location and aspect of sustainability or personal wellness.

In the first episode, you’ll learn all about harnessing the earth’s energy in Iceland. From there, travel to Paris to see their efforts to reduce bottled water impacts, learn about sustainability in Costa Rica, and nutrition in Sardinia.

Also included in the series are food education in Lima, post-hurricane sustainability in Puerto Rico, London pollution reduction efforts, and Iquitos wellness in the Peruvian Amazon.

In one of the most intriguing segments, they learn about tap water differences from a water sommelier. The series lends a glimpse into some beautiful destinations and what locals are doing to keep them beautiful for decades to come.

Chosen by Samantha of PAonPause.com

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Historian and film-maker Paul Murton brings you on a fascinating journey to many Scottish islands over four seasons. He meets with locals; finds hidden gems; and explores the rich, unique, and sometimes tragic history of each of the islands. 

You may be surprised to find yourself binge-watching this relaxing travel documentary series. You will get caught up in Murton’s contagious curiosity about its people and his great admiration for its beauty. Every episode is filled with stunning scenery. The high production quality and engaging soundtrack heighten the enjoyment of the show. Fans can follow this up with his three other Scottish travel series.  

Queue up, Grand Tours of the Scottish Islands to enjoy some dreamy armchair travel or to gain a deeper understanding of the islands as you plan your trip to Scotland .  

Places featured: Isle of Skye , Islands of Loch Lomond, Hebridean Islands, Orkney Islands, and many more

Contributed by Erica at Trip Scholars

Expedition Happiness is a home movie/travelogue that follows the story of a German couple as they give up their life in Germany to do an epic road trip in the Americas with their dog Rudi.

The couple, whose names are Selima and Felix, purchased a yellow school bus in Florida for 9500 USD. After working on it for three months, they transformed it into their “Loft on Wheel”, a comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped adventure bus. 

The itinerary was to start in Alaska near Denali National Park , drive all the way down to Central America, cross over to South America, and finish in Argentina.

On their adventure, they documented all the incredible landscapes they saw, the people they met, and more.

Whether they were able to finish their epic adventure or not, you will have to find out on Netflix! 

Chosen by Sean of Living out Lau

Chef’s Table

Even if you’re not a foodie but love to travel, be sure to watch Chef’s Table on Netflix. This documentary series features renowned Chefs from around the world who are creating inspired culinary experiences.

Now in its 6th season with 30 episodes, the series doesn’t just showcase a chef’s creations, but takes you on a journey through each of their personal stories that has led to their creativity.

World renowned chefs like Italy’s Massimo Bottura will inspire you with how he came from humble beginnings to being on the world culinary stage. But one chef in particular has inspired us to travel for her food — Chef Ana Rôs, owner of  Hiša Franko restaurant  in Kobarid, Slovenia. 

After initially pursuing a career track in business, she spent years honing her craft and experimenting with the local foods of her native Slovenia. Today, she is now one of the top chefs in the world, Hiša Franko is one of the 50 Best Restaurants in the World and newly Michelin-rated — and our dinner there on my birthday might possibly be the best meal of my life.

Watch the series and decide where your next culinary adventure will be.

Chosen by Lori of travlinmad.com

In “Somebody Feel Phil”, the creator of “Everybody Loves Raymond,” Phil Rosenthal, travels the world to indulge in the scrumptious local cuisine and to learn more about the culture of these destinations.

There are currently four seasons on Netflix and each episode features a different city around the world. This documentary does a great job of portraying local customs and traditions and viewers will feel like they’re actually in that city with the locals.

Phil has a childlike wonder to him when he’s learning about the different cultures and he answers basically any potential questions the viewers could have about the destination. One of the best parts about the documentary is watching Phil turn the strangers he meets into his family. 

Places featured – Bangkok, Saigon, Tel Aviv, Lisbon, New Orleans, Mexico City, Venice , Dublin, Buenos Aires, Copenhagen, Cape Town, New York City, Marrakesh, Chicago, London, Seoul, Montreal, Rio De Janeiro, San Francisco, Singapore, the Mississippi Delta, and Hawaii. 

Chosen by Disha of Disha Discovers

While most people get engaged and then begin planning their perfect wedding, Tim and PJ, stars of the Netflix show Extreme Engagement, do anything but that. Instead, Tim and PJ get engaged and then set out on a worldwide exploration of marital traditions around the world. 

The couple journeys to places such as Mongolia, Brazil, China, Nigeria, and Papua New Guinea facing challenging experiences along the way that has them questioning their relationship and each other. 

You get to see a glimpse inside the cross-cultural challenges associated with a new romance along with an interesting insight into how other cultures celebrate love and marriage. 

Chosen by Michelle Snell from That Texas Couple

International travellers Scott Wilson and Justin Lukach cross the world and push their limits on an expedition to find genuine, unforgettable experiences.

DEPARTURES is an international award-winning and inspiring television travel series that will take you on the journey of a lifetime and beyond. From epic landscapes to unforgettable culture, learn what it takes to make it all happen through personal successes, crushing disappointments and memorable new friendships that could only be made by travelling abroad.

With two episodes for every continent, DEPARTURES will arm and reassure your wanderlust with hours of riveting programming that captures the beauty, drama, wonder and humor of taking a leap abroad.

DEPARTURES covers every aspect of world travel, showing you exactly what to expect at destinations around the globe. From beaches in Bali and cruising in the South Pacific Islands, to trekking on Mt Kilimanjaro and sailing up icebergs off Greenland, DEPARTURES takes you straight into a location’s unique atmosphere… giving viewers insight into a whole new way of life.

Places featured – Nearly 30 countries around the world including Japan, New Zealand and Russia

Chosen by Casandra of Karpiak Caravan Adventure Family Travel

Joanna Lumley’s India

Joanna Lumley is a British actress probably most well-known for her role as the outrageous Patsy of Absolutely Fabulous. What is perhaps less known about her is that she was born in Kashmir, India, in 1946, and the descendent of British colonists in India going back to 1777.

Originally aired in 2017 with three episodes, Joanna Lumley’s India takes viewers on a personal trip across the country where she explores modern India and finds connections to members of her own family and the experience of being and speaking English in India .

Lumley has also hosted travel shows on Japan, the Silk Road, the Caribbean, and the Trans-Siberia express train.

Places featured:  Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Gujarat, Mumbai, Ranthambhore National Park, Delhi, and Srinagar, Kashmir.

Chosen by Mariellen of Breathedreamgo

Chasing Coral is a fascinating documentary about the disappearance of coral around the world. In this chasing coral, a team of divers, researchers and photographers set out on an ocean adventure to document the bleaching of Coral in warming seas. This phenomenon is when corals lose their beautiful and vibrant colors to become white, dying shortly after. 

The point of this documentary is to show that the coral’s death is the result of climate change and the rise in temperatures that are absorbed by the oceans. 

The documentary takes us to some of the most beautiful destinations in the world such as the Florida Keys, Hawaii and the Bahamas. More than that, this documentary also shows the important damage climate change has done to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. 

I definitely recommend this documentary to anyone who wants to really understand the impact of human activity on the ocean’s ecosystem. 

Chosen by Camille from Everything Yoga Retreat

Magical Andes is one of the best travel documentaries on Netflix if you are looking to learn about the natural gems of South America. When searching amongst the 100’s of other documentaries you’ll find this particular docuseries created by Luis Ara and Alexandra Hardorf concentrates solely on the magical landscape of the Andes mountain range. 

This docuseries not only shows you all about the longest continental mountain range in the world, but talks about the wildlife, lakes, and forests, deserts, volcanoes, and other Mother Earth creations that exist in that region. 

Magical Andes focuses on truly stunning imagery and gives you a look into some of the  best places to visit in South America  that you simply wouldn’t see passing through in a car.

Places featured  – In season one, the Netflix documentary features spectacular views from Argentina and Chile. Then from the Aconcagua desert in Bolivia over to some of the more ancient cultures in Peru. The lush mountain of Colombia and Ecuador are also featured.

Chosen by Daniel of LayerCulture.com

If you’ve ever thought of visiting Cuba there are many Cuban movies and documentaries to help you to research your trip, but none are as epic as this one. 

Many people believe that Cuba is a country frozen in time, but this Netflix documentary features Jon Alpert’s travels to Cuba over a span of nearly five decades. 

And while the relationships between the United States and Cuba has been fragmented at times, he visited each time as an American journalist. It starts in 1970s, just over a decade since the Cuban revolution when the country was thriving. 

Instead of giving his perspective on Cuba, he interviews three families who share their own stories of every day life. He continues to visit Cuba to find these families to update their stories. Over the decades the political situation and relationship with the United States changes quite dramatically.

And while he also interviews Fidel Castro, most of the film is really about everyday Cubans and their highs and lows.

Chosen by Ayngelina of Baconismagic.ca

Jack Whitehall is a British comedian who attended private school and has a somewhat disjointed relationship with his father Michael because of this. Jack also never got to take a gap year before going to university so season one of Travels with my Father is all about Jack finally embarking on a traditional ‘gap year’ trip to Southeast Asia. The twist is he takes his father with him so they can strengthen their bond.

The series takes place in Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam and highlights some of the gap year activities that can be done including full moon parties on the beach and visiting Angkor Wat. By the end of their travels, they reflect on what they have learned about each other and themselves.

The show continues in a similar fashion in the subsequent seasons where Michael takes Jack on a culture and history tour around Europe, Jack shows Michael everything the US has to offer, and both his mother and father join him for a road trip in Australia.

Chosen by Steph from Book It Let’s Go!

If you love travel, design and food, Restaurants on the Edge needs to be on your Netflix list. In each episode, the show highlights a restaurant in a stunning location. 

The restaurants get a makeover from a design expert and the menu often gets an upgrade from the show’s chef, the goal is to take struggling restaurants and make them sustainable for the business owners. 

There are currently two seasons of Restaurants on the Edge on Netflix, with locations throughout the world. 

In season one, you’ll be treated to beautiful ocean views in Malta, as well as stunning architecture. The views continue with a cliff side restaurant in Costa Rica. 

Season two will take you around the world again, with restaurants in Finland, St. Croix and Arizona. 

Not only is it fun to see the upgrades these restaurants go through, but it’s also inspiring to see the impact the changes have on each person’s life making this show a must-watch. 

Chosen by Alenis of seasaltandfog.com  

If you are a fan of Italy, Italian art and History, then watch the gorgeous and surprisingly brutal history of the famous Medici’s of Florence.

The Netflix show is so well done with gorgeous cinematography, beautiful costumes and stage settings. The show includes all the surrounding countryside and historic sites that document the Medici Family and their major influence on Florence, Venice, and even Rome (two popes were related to the Medici family).

It also showcases early Catholic power and greed. The Pope had absolute power and a religious mission that seemed corrupt whichever person was Pope and ruler. 

The Medici focus really hits the major sites of the city and also the start of the Renaissance period in Italy. The crowning of the main dome in the cathedral was a major achievement during this time frame and it was really fascinating to see how this was depicted and shown in development and the struggles of the Medici family to get this undertaking done.

Also, it was interesting to see how easy it was during that time frame to create wealth and also lose it depending on your affiliations and business relationships with the pope and other influential rulers of that time.

Watch the Medici’s on Netflix and if you visit Florence, you’ll gain a better understanding of the Medici fame and fortune in the area.

Chosen by Noel of Oahu Travel Now

Below Deck is a series of reality TV shows. Each show is set on a luxury yacht which is rented out by wealthy charter guests, but the real action is with the young yacht crew, or yachties, who serve them, the characterful captains who lead them and the stunning locations. The original Below Deck was so successful that it rapidly gained two spin offs, Below Deck Mediterranean and Below Deck Sailing Yacht.

The original Below Deck saw the crew sail around Sint Maarten in the Caribbean, followed by seasons in the British Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, the US Virgin Islands, Tahiti, Thailand and Antigua.

Below Deck Mediterranean’s locations have included Mykonos in the Greek Islands, Split and Cavtat in Croatia, the Amalfi Coast in Italy, the Cote d’Azur in the south of France and Mallorca in Spain’s Balearic Islands. Below Deck, Sailing Yacht has only had one series, set in Corfu.

Contributed by Helen of HelenOnHerHolidays.com

The documentary series “Tales by Light” follows renowned professional filmmakers and photographers as they visit worldwide destinations and capture fascinating content which highlights different features of the natural world. 

Every episode focuses on a different subject such as wildlife, the oceans, landscapes, adventure activities, or cultural practices and traditions. The distinct approaches of the featured photographers really help to bring the stories to life and this program presents many less well-known countries and regions in a compelling way using panoramic landscapes and stunning visuals. 

The first season explores multiple destinations per episode, with visits to Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Alaska and Colorado in the United States, Vanuatu, the Himalayas, Antarctica, Ethiopia and Uganda.

The second season covers Kenya, Norway, Brazil, the Bahamas, India and Namibia, and the third season highlights Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Australia.

This series presents a journey across the globe and is sure to inspire travellers who are looking for their next adventure.

Contributed by Claire from  Claire Pins Travel  

In this cultural travel show, CNN journalist Christiane Amanpour (who in the past has covered major stories from countries like  Iran , Rwanda, and Pakistan) travels to six different cities around the world to explore women’s love lives across multiple cultures. She talks to experts in the field as well as everyday people — revealing facts and details that give a very insightful glimpse into the culture and values of women around the world. 

Christiane is a natural at asking just the right questions and at shining a spotlight on the stories of the women in each city.

While this show focuses heavily on love and sex, viewers will get to learn a whole lot about the overall mentality and life approach of each country — making this a perfect travel show that fosters deeper cultural appreciation.

Places featured – Tokyo (Japan), Delhi (India), Beirut (Lebanon), Berlin (Germany), Accra (Ghana), Shanghai (China)

Chosen by Jiayi of The Diary of A Nomad

Released at the beginning of 2021, The Serpent is not a travel show in and of itself, but it will inevitably allure travelers into visiting the many places explored by the main characters.

Aired on Netflix, the series tells the real story of Charles Sobhraj, a French serial killer of Indian and Vietnamese origins who in the mid-1970s drugged, robbed and killed a large number of backpackers travelling between Thailand, India and Nepal. 

Sobhraj and his Quebecoise girlfriend Marie-Andrée Leclerc were finally identified as the authors of the crimes thanks to the work of Dutch diplomat Herman Knippenberg, who, albeit the many reservations of the Dutch ambassador to Thailand, set to investigate the disappearance of a Dutch couple and through a series of lead eventually managed to uncover the culprits.

Places featured: Over the course of 8 episodes you will be taken to Bangkok, the coast of Thailand, the peaks of Nepal, the streets of several Indian cities and even to Paris .

Chosen by Claudia Tavani of My Adventures Across The World

When Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson free climbed the Great Wall of the El Capitan rock face in the Yosemite National Park in 2018, the news spread like wildfire.

Dawn Wall is a US documentary about this story of perseverance and adventure.

Cameras follow these legendary free climbers as they undertake this nearly impossible task. It took Cadwell 7 years to reach the goal and we are given a detailed look into the events that led to this decision and the struggles that were involved throughout the journey.

There’s one constant theme that runs throughout the story and that is the strength of the human spirit.

This captivating documentary with great visuals should not be missed. The documentary is in English, but subtitles are available in different languages that include Spanish, French, and Chinese. 

Places featured : Yosemite National Park

Chosen by Rai from A Rai of Light

My Octopus Teacher is an award-winning and very heart-touching documentary on Netflix that covers how a filmmaker spent a year trying to capture a wild octopus on camera and also form a friendship with it. 

For about a year, Craig Foster films a wild octopus he came across while trying out free-diving through an underwater kelp forest in South Africa.

Over the period, Craig and the octopus develop a bond with the octopus almost showing Craig around and not being uninhibited by his presence as he follows it.

Craig watches as it protects itself, loses an arm to an attack and then regrows it too. At the end of the documentary, the octopus naturally passes away after mating and trying to protect its eggs. 

Filmed entirely near Cape Peninsula in South Africa, this beautiful documentary is not to be missed as it covers an offbeat relationship between man and nature. 

Places featured – A kelp forest off False Bay near Simon’s Town in South Africa

Chosen by Lavinia of Continent Hop

For the foodies of the world, who travel the world, and are strident realists about the world, “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown” is an absolute must-watch.

Rugged, painfully honest, internationally renowned chef Anthony Bourdain travelled the globe in search of authentic food, people and life experiences. With no time for nonsense and all the time in the world for simple food done to perfection, he takes the viewer to eating establishments from tiny street food stalls to the finest of fine dining.

In his search for amazing food in amazing places, he guides you from the brutality of the Bornean jungle to the madness of Seoul’s foodie nightlife and the pure joy of a perfectly cooked steak in an Argentinian steakhouse accompanied by a glass of locally bottled Malbec. 

Parts Unknown leaves you an appetite for dinner and a bigger one for travel. Wanderlust is baked into every episode.

Chosen by Rosie of the Flying Fluskeys

The Street Food series is one for foodie lovers around the world to enjoy! Each episode follows the story of a local chef and how they started their now-famous street food shops.

From family restaurants to cultural fusions, you learn about a destination through food from the people who make it possible.

Volume one takes place in various Asian destinations, such as Bangkok (Thailand), Singapore, Delhi (India), Seoul (South Korea), and others.

The second volume takes place in Latin America, highlighting food in Salvador (Brazil), Bogota (Colombia), Lima (Peru), Oaxaca (Mexico), and more.

It is a delicious docuseries that will keep you salivating and also inspire you to understand how food and travel are one. Street Food will also encourage you to get out of your comfort zone if you normally avoid street food!

It is the ideal blend of travel and food for everyone to indulge in from home.

Chosen by Sojourner of Sojournies.com

📺 If you are looking for more travel inspiration on Netflix check out these posts:

• 39 Very Best Travel Movies to Inspire Your Wanderlust
• Best Spanish Series on Netflix (Binge-worthy TV for 2021)
• 10 best movies about South Africa to watch before you visit
• Best Netflix series set in Denmark
• 15 best Scandinavian & Nordic Noir Netflix series you can’t miss
• Best French series on Netflix

📖 If you enjoy reading about a country before you visit check out these posts

• A Complete Guide to the Best Books from Around the World
• Best books about Croatia (or set in Croatia)

• The Best Travel Shows on Netflix
• Why Cruises Are Surprisingly Expensive
• Words to Learn Before You Go
• The Worst People to Travel With
• Excellent TV Shows About Travel
• The Most Beautiful Countries on Earth
• Social Networks for Travelers
• Important Things in a Vacay Spot
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The Best Netflix Travel Shows To Watch Now

Here are the best travel shows streaming now on Netflix. Whether you're looking for exotic food destinations or planning your next vacation, this list of travel documentary series currently on Netflix is regularly updated with new and popular TV series. What are the best travel programs to watch on Netflix? 

One of the best Netflix original docuseries, Somebody Feed Phil  features Everybody Loves Raymond creator Philip Rosenthal traveling the world and trying local foods. Other good travel shows on Netflix include Ugly Delicious , Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father , Tales By Light , and Taco Chronicles.

Check out these Netflix travel shows and vote up the very best.

Street Food

Is Street Food Worth Your Time?

Somebody Feed Phil

Is Somebody Feed Phil Worth Your Time?

Dark Tourist

Is Dark Tourist Worth Your Time?

Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father

Is Jack Whitehall: Travel... Worth Your Time?

• # 353 of 448 on The 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
• # 79 of 79 on The 75+ Best Travel TV Shows Sure To Give You The Travel Bug
• # 739 of 788 on The 700+ Best Netflix Original Series

Midnight Asia: Eat. Dance. Dream

Is Midnight Asia: Eat. Da... Worth Your Time?

The World's Most Extraordinary Homes

Is The World's Most Extra... Worth Your Time?

Ugly Delicious

Is Ugly Delicious Worth Your Time?

Street Food: USA

Is Street Food: USA Worth Your Time?

Down to Earth with Zac Efron

Is Down to Earth with Zac... Worth Your Time?

• # 106 of 628 on The 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
• # 9 of 37 on The Best Guilty Pleasure TV Shows of the Last Few Years
• # 52 of 78 on The 75+ Best Travel TV Shows Sure To Give You The Travel Bug

Taco Chronicles

Is Taco Chronicles Worth Your Time?

Heavenly Bites: Mexico

Is Heavenly Bites: Mexico... Worth Your Time?

Tales By Light

Is Tales by Light Worth Your Time?

Is Cooked Worth Your Time?

Instant Hotel

Is Instant Hotel Worth Your Time?

Down to Earth With Zac Efron: Down Under

Is Down to Earth With Zac... Worth Your Time?

• # 70 of 628 on The 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
• # 35 of 37 on The Best Guilty Pleasure TV Shows of the Last Few Years
• # 33 of 78 on The 75+ Best Travel TV Shows Sure To Give You The Travel Bug

The Kindness Diaries

Is The Kindness Diaries Worth Your Time?

Paul Hollywood's Big Continental Road Trip

Is Paul Hollywood's Big C... Worth Your Time?

Is Stay Here Worth Your Time?

You vs. Wild

Is You vs. Wild Worth Your Time?

• # 46 of 52 on The Best 2019 Original Streaming Platform Shows
• # 61 of 62 on The Best New Adventure TV Series of the Last Few Years
• # 2 of 21 on The Best Netflix Interactive Content

Ainori Love Wagon: Asian Journey

Is Ainori Love Wagon: Asi... Worth Your Time?

Chuck and Danny's Road Trip

Is Chuck and Danny's Road... Worth Your Time?

Extreme Engagement

Is Extreme Engagement Worth Your Time?

• # 205 of 589 on The 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
• # 141 of 202 on The Best New Shows That Premiered in 2019
• # 178 of 624 on The Best New Reality TV Shows of the Last Few Years
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Lists for those with wanderlust.

10 Best Travel Shows On Netflix

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Dec 31, 2023 | Inspiration , Travel Tips

If the worldwide pandemic has halted your travel plans like most of us, you’re probably suffering from travel blues. However, closed borders and travel restrictions don’t mean travel can no longer be a part of your life.

Stay productive by filling your time with travel inspiration and plan your next big adventure for when the time is right. And who can help you do that? Good old Netflix. 

That’s right; there is a host of travel shows on Netflix right now awaiting your viewing. So order your favorite takeaway, get comfy, and work your way through our list of the ten best travel documentaries on Netflix.

1. Our Planet

Our Planet is essentially Netflix’s version of ‘Planet Earth.’ It is so similar it even features narration from Sir David Attenborough. The mindblowing way this series showcases the most awe-inspiring nature makes it one of the best travel shows on Netflix in 2021. 

Our Planet will reawaken your wanderlust and have you itching to get out into the wilderness. While it’s not possible to go to the far corners of the earth as shown in this series, perhaps you can settle for exploring a new nature reserve in your home state for now.

2. Down To Earth With Zac Efron

In Down To Earth, hunk Zac Efron travels the world in search of more sustainable ways of living. It is an eye-opening and upbeat documentary that looks for solutions to problems, finding ways we can do things better. Therefore, it’s the best travel documentary series for those looking to learn how they can contribute to creating a greener, more sustainable world.

3. The Chef Show

What better combination than food and travel! If you love trying new cuisines or have ever dreamt about building a business on four wheels, this is one Netflix travel documentary you will adore. In The Chef Show, duo Jon Favreau and Roy Choi reunite to travel around the world cooking with celebrities and famous chefs. They celebrate different flavors, cultures, and people and take you through various delicious recipes.

4. Street Food

While we’re on the subject of food, you need to check out Street Food. Season one showcases the street eats found in Asia. They visit Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, and more, tasting the locals’ go-to bites. This is one of those Netflix travel documentaries that will remind you of your travels. From the vibrancy of the sights and sounds, you’ll almost be able to smell and taste those Asian delights again. 

5. Jack Whitehall: Travels With My Father

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to take your parents traveling, this comedy road trip series will give you an idea. In Travels With My Father, comedian Jack Whitehall takes his dad to Southeast Asia to try to strengthen their bond. Jack is very jolly and easy-going whereas, his father couldn’t be any different, making for an interesting duo. 

The show is very lighthearted and not the most serious of the travel shows on Netflix. However, you can’t help but laugh at the awkward situations the pair continuously find themselves in.

6. Larry Charles’ Dangerous World Of Comedy

In this Netflix travel documentary, comedy writer-director Larry Charles sets out to find humor in all corners of the world. He travels to some of the most feared places, such as Somalia, Liberia, Saudi Arabia, and Iran. 

Here Larry seeks out people who use humor to combat their dire circumstances. He meets some of the most unlikely comics and delves deep into the world of dark, dangerous comedy. This is undoubtedly one of the most daring travel shows on Netflix!

7. Night On Earth

In Night On Earth, nature meets technology to disclose the biggest wonders of the nocturnal world. Using state-of-the-art, low-light cameras, the series shows the hidden lives of some of the world’s most extraordinary creatures, from lions on the hunt to bats on the wing. The footage captured is nothing less than mind-blowing. The narrating is just as beautiful, making it one of the best travel shows on Netflix for nature nerds. 

8. Pedal The World

If the day-to-day stresses are getting to you and you’re losing sight of your dreams, Pedal The World will give you the inspiration you need to do something big. In this self-made adventure documentary, Felix Starck documents his 18,000-kilometre bicycle journey across 22 countries in 365 days. Felix gives us a visual diary of him cycling & camping around the world, which is emotional, inspiring, and never dull.

This is a must-watch for anyone that is feeling down due to the current state of the world. It’s one of those Netflix travel documentaries that will prompt you to reflect on the way you live and question the meaning of life.

9. Expedition Happiness

All digital nomads can relate to that desire to escape their hometown and get out into the world. This is precisely what Expedition Happiness is about. In this travel documentary, a young couple transforms an old school bus into a motorhome and travels with their dog across North America in it. 

This travelogue is organically beautiful, featuring many relatable problems. Moreover, it’s a representation of the freedom we all crave, which is why we believe it’s one of the best travel documentaries on Netflix.

10. Dark Tourist

Finally, if you want to watch something a bit out of the ordinary, here’s one for you. Dark Tourist with David Farrier is probably the weirdest (and most morbid) of all the travel shows on Netflix. Farrier explores the lesser-known and usually avoided cultures of the world and opts to visit places that are historically associated with death and tragedy. Highlights of this series include when Farrier meets vampires in New Orleans and a death-worshipping cult in Mexico. You’ll need an open mind for this one!

Final Thoughts

Even if you’re unable to have your own big adventure right now, these Netflix travel documentaries will remind you of why you fell in love with travel in the first place.

Utilize these travel shows on Netflix to draw inspiration and reignite your wanderlust, then get planning the best trip of your life. 

Need more inspiration? Check out these lists:

• Best movies for long-distance relationships
• Best movies about France
• Best movies about nomads

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12 Travel Shows On Netflix That Allow You To Take A Virtual Tour Of The World

If you're a lover of travel who enjoys watching documentaries, this one's for you. these travel shows on netflix will have you hooked.

By: Anushka Goel Published: Aug 09, 2022 01:59 PM IST

Ever since OTT platforms such as Netflix have launched, an increasing number of people are turning to their subscriptions to watch documentaries – on nature, travel, food, health, crime and more. And in case you’re a travel buff, these travel shows on Netflix are some you will surely love. By Anushka Goel

Travel is something that soothes the soul and sparks creativity. It helps us visit places and learn about new cultures in ways that we never thought were possible. Apart from this, it also helps us build on a bank of knowledge and deep-rooted respect for cultures from across the world .

What’s also equally interesting and knowledgeable is watching documentaries. Be it on nature, travel, crime, law, or more, documentaries cater to the edutainment segment, offering entertainment and a lot of knowledge, all in a span of an hour or a little more.

If you’re a travel and adventure buff, we’re sure you love watching travel-based content, too. Whether it is shows on TV or films and documentaries on OTT platforms, there’s no dearth of content to keep you hooked for hours. So, in case you are interested, these travel shows on Netflix will keep you on the edge of your seats with the thrill, while they also enrich you and impart knowledge and information like none other.

Travel shows on Netflix to add to your watchlist now

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Nirmal Purja MBE – NIMSDAI (@nimsdai)

Based on the story of Nirmal (Nims or Nimsdai) Purja, 14 Peaks is a great documentary for adventure enthusiasts who love mountaineering (or want to try the same). The documentary covers Nims as he aims to climb all 14 of the 8,000 metre + peaks in a record seven months.

Dark Tourist

Dark Tourist takes you to places that are known for their tragic past. Among the popular travel shows on Netflix, this one takes you on a journey with journalist David Farrier, who visits places that you’d not think of travelling to in your wildest dreams! Be it sunbathing in Fukushima or death worshipping in Mexico, he does it all, and documents the entire journey for you.

Expedition Happiness

A road trip across North America, Expedition Happiness is a documentary based on the travels of a filmmaker and his musician girlfriend, along with their pooch. Their caravan travel will make you want to pack your bags and book your own van (or transform a bus into one!) and go road-tripping across the country like nobody’s business!

Jack Whitehall: Travels With My Father

Ace comedian Jack Whitehall, in this unusual show, travels with his father. The series is complete with anecdotes, cute moments, travels and of course, loads of laughter. With silly humour and emotional farewells, Jack Whitehall: Travels With My Father is undoubtedly among the best travel shows that you will watch on Netflix.

Street Food

One of the greatest delights of travel is exploring the culinary delights each new place has to offer. And no, we don’t mean dining at the fanciest of restaurants. In many countries and cultures across the world, a region’s soul can be found in its street food, and the series Street Food explores just that. Its various seasons focus on different countries and regions, and will be sure to have you hooked from the get go!

Tales By Light

Tales By Light is a unique take on a travel show. How? It talks about the story behind some popular photographs of Australia and North America! The series is great for travellers to explore stunning destinations and for photographers to pick up a few tips and understand what goes behind the making of a picture.

Home2Home documents Dennis Kailing, a young German rider, travelling across 41 countries over 761 days on a solo bike journey . Kailing wants to break free from his monotonous life, and goes on a journey to explore the world and make peace with himself. His trip, across 44,000 kilometres, allows him to meet people, make memories and get learnings that will stay with him for a lifetime.

Biking Borders

If slow travelling and biking are what interest you, Biking Borders will be a sureshot visual treat! Two young friends set off on a 15,000-kilometre bicycle tour, with a dream in mind – collecting funds to build a school in Guatemala. The friends cover some stunning destinations, and their journey will surely serve as inspiration – not just for travel, but for all walks of life.

Down To Earth with Zac Efron

Down To Earth With Zac Efron is a web documentary series that seeks to explore lifestyles that are sustainable, eco-friendly and nature-oriented. The docuseries takes its host, actor Zac Efron, across various countries including France, Greece, Costa Rica and Puerto Rico, where he explores sustainability practices adopted by some of these major towns and cities. Though the series has had tepid reviews, it makes for a good watch for a beginner into travel shows as well as sustainability.

72 Dangerous Places To Live

Across the world, there are villages, towns and cities that are located on (or near) sites that are hazardous and dangerous. In 72 Dangerous Places To Live , the hosts explore why people live in places that have poisonous water, frequent earthquakes, live volcanoes and more, and understand their lifestyles and ways of living.

Our Great National Parks

The picturesque docuseries stars former USA president Barack Obama as he explores some of the most stunning national parks across the world. From Kenya to Chile, Australia and more, he covers some of the most stunning destinations, that will paint the most beautiful picture for you. It makes for a fun watch if you’re looking for something informative, but not highly educational.

The eight-part travel show on Netflix, narrated by David Attenborough, combines the spectacular photography of Planet Earth while offering deep insight into some of the most stunning wildlife and natural sites available in the world.

Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy of @nimsdai/Instagram

Related:  Meet Suyash Keshari, The 25-Year-Old Award-Winning Wildlife Photographer Who’s Spent A Decade Amid Wildlife And Nature!

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Anushka Goel

Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument. Read Less

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Best Netflix Travel Shows | Travel Documentaries to Watch

If you’re like most who have that wanderlust feeling, but aren’t able to fulfill it at the moment, the best you can do is to try and fill those cravings with some travel series. Thankfully, this list of the best Netflix travel series will help you choose an adventure from your living room. Maybe they can ignite the adventurer within and give you inspiration for when you can hit the road again.

If one of these Netflix travel shows does grab your attention and makes you want to follow their lead, make sure to remember some of these adventure travel tips so you’re prepared for everything. You can also check out our list for the best wanderlust inducing travel movies streaming on Netflix !

6 Top Travel Shows on Netflix

Netflix is known to have some of the best travel shows available at the moment. The best travel documentaries on Netflix all have their quirks ranging from the obscure to the outright comical. These travel shows will either make you stare in amazement or have you crying with laughter while being taken on a journey.

Street Food

This one is for all the foodies, who love to travel just to eat their way through their trip and taste as many local dishes as possible. One of the best travel documentaries on Netflix, they take you along for the ride as they explore street food from around the world. This traveling show has a stunning combination of interviews with street chefs, exploring their history.

This is all put within the larger picture of how influential street food is in each chef’s homeland. Each season focuses on a specific region/continent, with Asia and Latin America’s street food being showcased in the first two seasons.

Even though you might not be able to travel to try that food right now, nothing is stopping you from taking some notes and taking a world tour in your kitchen.

Dark Tourist

Have you ever heard of dark tourism? For the more obscure travelers, this series takes you to places and experiences that are not exactly conventional. David Farrier takes you on an adventure to explore the darker and lesser-known cultures and parts of the world.

This is one of those Netflix travel documentaries that will take you on tours ranging from the odd to the totally bizarre and creepy. David visits a full-scale Noah’s Ark, a horror house and even tours La Catedral with Pablo Escobar’s former hitman. This might not be to everyone’s taste, but is definitely worth a watch if you want something a little different and to see the weird and wonderful this world has to offer.

If you like to be different then have a look here if you really want to get off the beaten track . You could also try some dark tourism for yourself and visit the town of Prypiat outside of Chernobyl , exploring the time capsule that remains.

Jack Whitehall – Travels With My Father

Imagine traveling with one of your parents for a road trip documentary, with all your contrasting personality traits and quirks for all to see. If that sounds entertaining – this travel series is full of it! Comedian Jack Whitehall takes a trip with his father to various places around the world while getting themselves into a few awkward situations.

For some lighthearted but also occasionally cringe-worthy family travel escapades, this is one of the best shows on Netflix. They approach all their journeys through South East Asia, Europe and West America with very different perspectives. Although through all the bickering, there are some wholesome moments between the two. That is until a third and unusual member joins their trip.

The Kindness Diaries

Just how far could you travel around the world using kindness as a currency? This again is one of the best travel shows on Netflix with the traveler, Leon, traveling around the world and relying on the kindness of strangers for food, shelter and petrol. Leon is not able to accept money at all on his journey. During all these interactions with locals who help, he learns more about them and their stories.

In return for these strangers’ kindness, he pays it forward by helping those who help him realize their dreams. He travels around with a vintage vehicle in each season, first a vintage motorcycle and then a vintage car. This is one of those road trip documentaries that will immerse you in the local culture and show that there are some truly selfless people in this world. Be warned, this is a bit of a tear jerker.

Tales by Light

Tales by Light is something a bit different from National Geographic on Netflix. This is a travel documentary series that you would probably have never seen before. This thought-provoking series takes you on a journey with professional photographers who travel around the world to capture iconic and powerful images.

This series has stunning imagery that will make you stare in wonderment as these photographers push their limits to capture that elusive image. All while this series answers the question on everyone’s mind, what is the meaning behind that image and how did they do it?

Down to Earth With Zac Efron

For a travel series with a focus on sustainability while traveling around the world (yes the irony is not lost) a journey with Zac Efron is surprisingly light-hearted. The series focuses on Zac as he searches the globe, exploring new countries in search of a healthy and sustainable way to live.

Arguably, this series is somewhat more of a journey of self-reflection with travel as a backdrop. This series will take you around the world and show you how countries are attempting to combat climate change .

Best Travel Documentaries – What are you Adding to Your List?

Travel documentaries on Netflix give you a chance to live vicariously through others. They take you on a personal journey and give an in-depth look that you might even miss yourself. At least you can sit back, relax and go on a visual mind journey with those on the screen and take mental notes for the day that you board the plane to start your journey.

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1 thought on “best netflix travel shows | travel documentaries to watch”.

Loved Jack Whitehall Travels with my Father. Gotta enjoy British Humor. And enjoyed Down To Earth.

Any recommended non-Netflix shows we should be looking out for too?

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With international travel curtailed, watching travel shows on Netflix inspire us to dream, and there’s a huge list of excellent shows to remind us that is a world out there waiting. Netflix has some of the best content to keep our travel bug fed, from food to travel and nature. The best Netflix travel shows allow you to explore the world from our living rooms, experience new cultures, destinations and food without leaving the comfort of your chair or sofa. 

Watching travel shows will educate you about other countries and their people while introducing you to places you may have never considered visiting before. In addition, watching a travel show on Netflix can often prove just how easy it is to get around the world, and nothing is off-limits as long as you plan well. Watching a travel show on Netflix can be either inspirational or educational, with valuable information to prepare for a trip abroad as well as helpful information on a variety of topics including health and safety, how to pack, what to take and do’s and don’ts in different countries or even on cruises.

Travel shows are fun to watch as the producers often go to great lengths to make them entertaining for anyone interested in the destinations featured. So please sit back and enjoy incredible landscapes filmed with professional equipment by professionals who know what they’re doing. You’ll learn lots and soak up amazing sights and discover new places to travel abroad with the help of today’s technology.

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Travel Shows on Netflix

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1- Magical Andes

2- down to earth with zac efron, 3- zulu man in japan, 4- tales by light, 5- dark tourist, 6- jack whitehall: travels with my father, 7- guatemala: heart of the mayan world, 8- untamed romania, 9- street food asia, 10- somebody feed phil, 11- salt fat acid heat, 12- chef’s table, 13- ugly delicious, 14- high on the hog, 15- expedition happiness, 16- paul holywood’s big continental road trip, 17- pedal the world, 18- biking borders, 19- the kindness diaries, 20- magical land of oz, 21- planet earth i and ii, 22- cabins in the wild, 23- the world’s most amazing vacation rentals, 24- instant hotel, 25- travel man, top travel shows on netflix.

If you love exploring the mountains and people living in between them, this Netflix travel documentary will appeal to your sense of adventure.

Travel to Tierra del Fuego in Argentina’s southern tip, a region with abundant wildlife that thrives on its temperate climate because of its isolation from other continents’ animals.

The terrain ranges from diverse forests with giant trees like Patagonian Cypress, Andean Beech tree or Southern Chilean Myrtle to white-sand beaches washed by turquoise waves as seen in Ushuaia where Magellan landed 400 years ago and named it “Great Land.”

Discover Tierra del Fuego, the southernmost point on Earth in Argentin a, and Torres del Paine Park, one of South America’s most beautiful places.

Follow the Andes through Mendoza up into Bolivia, where you’ll find Uyuni – a large salt flat that holds more than 11 billion tons of sediments left by ancient lakes from 15 million years ago.

Nearby La Paz offers an aerial tram ride for views like no other as it takes off over 2,600 meters above sea level with breathtaking panoramas of The Bolivian Plateau stretching out before you below.

If this isn’t enough adventure in South America , there are the mysteries of Machu Picchu to discover.

Released in: 2019

Down to Earth with Zac Efron is a Netflix travel documentary that follows the journeys of American actor, producer and singer-songwriter Zac Efron.

His travels to France, London , Sardinia, Iceland, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica and Peru cover the serious issue of sustainable ways in a light and easily digestible tone.

Together with wellness expert Darin Olien, Zac searches for the secrets to long life and good health.

The series also addresses attaining a higher level of eco-consciousness, with a good dose of thrills.

Zac explores the birthplace of eco-tourism in Costa Rica and learns how a county is obtaining power from 100% renewable sources.

Another interesting activity is exploring London’s clean eating, green walls and urban beekeeping.

From Calais to Paris and Lourdes in France , the theme of water is another fascinating subject to explore through this travel series.

Released: 10 July 2020

The Zulu Man in Japan is a documentary exploring Japanese culture and is a 48-minute visual experience.

The travel documentary is a collaboration between the award-winning Durbanite and some of Japan’s coolest musicians, including JP The Wavey, Ricky and Yoshi.

Zulu Man explores Japan’s food, culture, life and public transport in this contemporary cultural travel show that fans will love.

Released: 25 September 2020

Tales by Light is an Australian documentary reality television series that originally aired on National Geographic.

It follows several professional photographers worldwide as they capture images that tell a story through their eyes, and behind every powerful image lies a tale worth telling.

The photographers in Tales by Light push the limits of their craft and convey a sense of places and cultures through their art.

Each episode is focused on a different photographer, and the themes focus on protecting beautiful places and cultures around the wider world.

Released: 24 May 2015 and available on Netflix 11 November 2016

From a haunted forest to a nuclear lake and other places where death and tragedy occurred, if quirky and macabre travel spots attract you, make sure you watch Dark Tourist on Netflix.

The series visits Medellin and delves into the legacy of Pablo Escobar and on to Mexico City, where the followers of Santa Muerte spill their secrets.

In Japan, explore Tomioka, which was evacuated during the Fukushima nuclear disaster, a robot hotel, death worshipping cult and a suicide hotspot.

Explore murder locations in Milwaukee, where Jeffrey Dahmer did gruesome deeds, go on tours that investigate the assassination of JFK, meet vampires in New Orleans and take a tour of the Manson murders.

Dark tourism may not be mainstream but it’s an interesting show.

Released: 20 July 2018

Travels with My Father is a series that follows comedian Jack Whitehall and his father across southeast Asia.

Father and son start off by exploring Vietnam , Cambodia and Thailand and move to Eastern Europe in the second series, while the third series is in the American West and the fourth series discovers Australia.

It’s a must-see for Jack Whitehall fams as this travel documentary series is a funny and heartwarming take on life.

Released: 22 September 2017

This documentary explores the rich landscape and culture of Guatemala, featuring the mysteries of ancient Mayan cities.

Guatemala is the heart of the 2000-year-old Mayan civilisation, which mysteriously collapsed.

This Netflix travel series starts in Petén, which has over 50 Mayan archaeological sites.

Maya culture continues to influence contemporary Guatemala, where four million people speak 24 Maya languages and traditions like weaving and counting the days in the Maya calendar still exist.

Watch this show on Netflix, and you’ll be itching to visit Guatemala’s museums, archaeological sites and towns.

Released: 11 December 2019

Untamed Romania is a feature-length film that celebrates the natural beauty of Romania , featuring its wildlife.

The show is narrated by Victor Rebengiuc and was produced through 12 months of his travels around the country.

From the Danube Delta to the Făgăraș mountains, this beautiful travel diary showcases the different seasons in Romania and is a must-see for nature lovers.

If you’re interested in exploring Romania, this series is worth watching.

Released: 18 March 2018.

Food Travel Documentaries on Netflix

Some of the best travel shows are to do with food.

Street Food Asia is a relatable show on Netflix that takes viewers into the kitchens in the backstreets of Asia’s best food cities.

From Bangkok to Singapore, Delhi to Osaka , the American Netflix documentary by David Gelb and Brian McGinn will take you on an exciting exploration of popular dishes.

The show splices in archival footage with interviews and follows street cooks and how street food has played a part in the culture of each country.

It’s one of the best travel documentary series to discover Asian delights.

Released: 26 April 2019

This Netflix original follows the creator of Everybody Loves Raymond worldwide, visiting cities like Dublin, Bangkok, Mexico City, New Orleans, Buenos Aires and Cape Town.

The fourth season goes from Rio de Janeiro to the Mississippi Delta to Hawaii.

Experiences include eating street food in Chinatown and exploring Bangkok’s floating market.

From slurping pho in Saigon and drinking Vietnamese coffee to eating shakshuka and visiting a synagogue-themed hummus shop in Tel Aviv, readers go on a fascinating discovery of delicious recipes

Released: 12 January 2018.

New York Times Magazine columnist Samin Nosrat is the brainchild behind the docuseries, based on the award-winning book.

Salt Fat Acid Heat explores the ingredients at the heart of dishes around the world.

From olive oil and cheese in Italy to soy and miso in Japan, watching this travel show on Netflix is a great way for foodies to experience the world.

Released: 2018

Another famous travel show on Netflix is Chef’s Table, which follows the best chefs in the world, an episode at a time.

From the tranquillity of rural Sweden to the mountains of Peru and temples in South Korea , watching this chef show is a fantastic way to explore the world through its food culture.

Each episode follows a different chef and features each chef’s philosophies to cooking.

Released: 26 April 2015

Awards: 2018 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Cinematography for a Nonfiction Program and many other awards since 2015.

Another popular chef show follows award-winning chef David Chang on a culinary journey of the popular hotspots.

Accompanied by a bevy of interesting characters, including artists, writers, activists and famous chefs, they use food to break down cultural barriers.

From top-notch kitchens to local eateries, the show is a showcase of food in some of the globe’s best foodie cities, including Copenhagen, Tokyo and Houston.

Released: 23 February 2018.

African-American soul food is the star of High on the Hog, a travel show on Netflix based on the eponymous book.

A culmination of years of work showcases the history of African American cuisine, tracing the journey from cultivating and harvesting to processing and cooking.

It’s a celebration of food that African slaves brought to America, including blackeyed peas, watermelon and okra.

This is one of the best travel shows to help you delve into this aspect of America’s history.

Released: 26 May 2021.

Road Trip Travel Shows On Netflix

Expedition Happiness follows a young German couple, Felix and Mogli, who take off on a road journey in a refurbished school bus.

From Alaska to Mexico, this travel show is about the couple’s search for happiness.

They leave city life in Berlin to feed their souls with their mountain dog.

Various setbacks make this show a riveting watch, and the characters are real people who have fears and hopes.

From worrying about whether soldiers have framed them by planting drugs under their bus to drinking tequila with a drug dealer, you’ll want to know whether they do find happiness in their travels.

Released: 4 May 2017.

Baker and actor Paul Hollywood, a fan of sleek sports cars, discovers how popular cars in Europe are connected with culture and identity.

In Paul Hollywood’s Big Continental Road Trip, Paul visits France , Italy and Germany to drive popular cars such as the £2 million Italian Huayra, a 2CV in France and a German VW Kombi Camper Van.

Released: 28 May 2017

Follow a young millennial as he bicycles around the globe through 22 countries, searching for the meaning in life.

The 20,000 km journey is a year-long bicycle tour through multiple countries, visiting some of the most famous landmarks around the world.

From Germany to Turkey to South east Asia to New Zealand and the USA, Felix Starck has an adventure like no other, documenting his personal experience.

It’s a bucket list journey for cycling fans to watch.

Released: 29 October 2015

Some of the best travel shows are about exploring places while doing something good for humanity.

A 15,000 km bicycle tour around the world raising funds to build a school in Guatemala is a worthy cause to follow.

Follow the adventures of Max and Nono from Berlin to Beijing and be inspired by their Beijing to Berlin.

Released: 2019

The Kindness Diaries is a social experiment that puts the spotlight on generosity and selflessness.

Leon Logothetis goes on a road tour to find compassion from strangers.

This unique travel show is one of the best travel documentaries for an uplifting watch that brings hope in a world where greed is rampant.

Released: 21 February 2017

Nature Travel Shows On Netflix

Discover the magic of Australia while watching the Magical Land of Oz.

Australia is a beautiful country with many natural surprises, from the wild ocean to the highest peaks, from tropical savannahs to lush rainforests.

From wild numbats to giant cuttlefish, there is a myriad of wild creatures to meet.

Barry Humphries is the narrator of this popular show that reveals the challenges animals face in this land of extremes.

Released in: 17 February 2019

Sir David Attenborough narrates both Planet Earth and its sequel.

Both are the best travel shows for lovers of nature to devour.

From learning about flora and fauna to South east Asia’s smooth-coated otters, from Tibetan foxes to endangered Ethiopian ibex, leopards in Mumbai, Jaipur’s monkeys and Southern France’s catfish, these two nature travel documentaries on Netflix are sure to delight.

Released in: 2006 and 2016

Two men follow a competition to create a portable hotel in the wilderness consisting of eight cabins, each with its style and décor.

Competition rounds are based on themes, such as the battle of the dragon where a cabin built to look like the eye of the dragon competes against one that looks like a dragon’s claw.

Cabin designs are creative and watching the show will inspire you to pack your bags and head out into the wilderness.

A luxurious cabin inspired by a Welsh coal pit fights it out with a contemporary slate cabin. Other fantastic creations are a cabin inspired by the legend of King Arthur and a double-storey tepee.

Released: 2017

The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals helps viewers discover unique vacation rentals covering a wide range of budgets.

The show highlights unique options such as a treehouse in Atlanta, a cabin in Hawaii with its own waterfall and a snake-shaped apartment in Mexico City.

There are plenty of luxury escapes to swoon over and some amazing experiences, such as waking up in a bed of marshmallow pillows in a room that costs $15,000 a night and sleeping in a bamboo pod in Bali.

From a private Bahamas island to the Yellow Ferry, which is the oldest surviving wooden ferry on the West Coast, to a cave in the Ozark Mountains, this travel show will wow you with a world of delightful accommodation choices.

Released: 2021

Instant Hotel is a reality show where teams of Australian homeowners stay in one another’s rentals and rate their experiences.

Each team and a judge scores each other based on a set of criteria including the property, location, attractions, value and a good night’s sleep.

The highest-scoring team moves to the Grand Final, and the prizes are impressive, such as $100,000 in cash and a stay at a Californian Instant Hotel.

Released: 7 November 2017

Travel Man follows the comic and his British celebrity guests as they explore cities like Hong Kong, Helsinki and Miami.

Fancy spending 48 hours in Athens with Dawn French or 48 hours in Florence with Rebel Wilson, or 48 hours in Istanbul with Adam Hills?

The programme a 48-hour itinerary in a format that moves fast with plenty of tips and a dash of humour.

The two-times nominated BAFTA show also won Best Factual Programme three years in a row at the RTS Midlands awards.

You can watch Travel Man on Amazon Prime.

Released: 30 March 2015

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Best Travel Shows and Series

Best Travel Shows on Netflix

The following travel shows and series are available on Netflix only.

Ugly Delicious

Recommended by Stephanie from Explore More Clean Less

Ugly Delicious is a relatively new food focused travel show that follows celebrity chef David Chang, founder of Momofuku, as he explores both across the United States and internationally. The episodes are loose and casual, showing Chang investigating the history of different regional cuisines and food rivalries. His guests range widely including other chefs, writers, actors, and artists, but they tend to share similar air time to the restaurant owners and people off the street. The focus blurs between culture and personal, feeling like you’re the fly on a wall while interesting people who love food hang out and chat about it. There’s no way to watch it and not be itching to travel to a new region and try some of the foods they highlight!

Travels With My Father

Recommended by Lee from The Travel Scribes

From the moment they touchdown in Bangkok, Thailand and make their way to the famous Khao San Road, the Netflix series Travels with my Father  will capture your heart, and tickle your funny bone.

Chronicling the experiences of British father and son duo, Jack and Michael Whitehall, this laugh a minute series not only showcases some of the globe’s most famous destinations but features the offbeat, slightly sarcastic relationship between Jack, a 30-something comedian still longing for his backpacker days and Michael, his elderly ever-suffering dad. The drama (and the giggles) are mostly driven by the vastly different travel styles of the two: Jack, the singlet and loud shorts-wearing millennial who is most comfortable in questionable hostels and eating street food and Michael, a slightly uptight luxury traveller who insists on wearing his ‘Sunday best’ on the streets of Southeast Asia and checking into five star hotels.

The show, now in its third season, sees the unlikely pair traverse the globe with jaunts in South East Asia, Europe and, more recently, a tour of the USA. This is must-watch viewing for anyone who loves British comedy and travel, in each measure.

Somebody Feed Phil

Recommended by Amber from Food And Drink Destinations

From the creator of the hit comedy series, Everyone Loves Raymond, comes the Netflix food travel series, Somebody Feed Phil. Following the culinary journeys of Phil Rosenthal, Somebody Feed Phil presents food travel from the “average” travelers perspective. Phil is by no means a food professional like Anthony Bourdain or Andrew Zimmern. Phil is an easy going family man who just happens to LOVE food. Over 2 seasons and 12 episodes, Phil with his mall crew, including his brother, travel to some of the best food destinations around the world. Phil’s childlike enthusiasm for each new destination, cuisine and culinary experience is priceless. His inquisitive nature and ability to connect with people makes Somebody Feed Phil a one of a kind culinary travel show. For those interested in traveling for food, Somebody Feed Phil attempts to alleviate the fear of trying the local food. It’s certainly worth watching. Netflix has also previously announced a season 3 with episodes scheduled to air sometime in 2020.

Dark Tourist

Recommended by Martha from Quirky Globetrotter

Nowadays, travel is often painted as an Instagrammable pastime. Yet, there is a surge of tourists who are looking for quite the opposite and want to see the not-so-glamorous parts of the world. We’re not talking off the beaten path. We’re talking more about what happens behind closed doors and what rumors try to speculate. The trend of traveling and diving into the taboo and unknown comes to life in the Netflix show, “ Dark Tourist .”

Whether it’s visiting radioactive nuclear sites or learning about gruesome assassinations, it’s the sense of forbiddenness or coveted secrets that these tourists ache for. Have you ever wondered why people are so enthralled by serial killer documentaries? The same thrill takes place in these destinations. (Don’t worry, there’s a Jeffrey Dahmer tour for you true crime aficionados.) Dark tourism profits off exposing the occult or veiled history of these locales.

Recommended by Laura from What’s Hot?

Our Planet is one of David Attenborough’s latest documentary series and was made directly for Netflix. Like all his other series, this one is beautifully shot, highly informative and well-loved by all the family. What sets One Planet apart from some of the others however is the focus upon how human life and global warming are destroying these natural havens. Attenborough takes us to some of the most beautiful and peaceful places on Earth before showing us the tragic consequences that have left other, similar areas barren wastelands.

Alternating between land and sea, you’ll go to the desert, the depths of the ocean, the jungles and the coast. This is an important one for avid travellers because it will jointly inspires us to travel more of the world’s secluded locations but also to do so in a way which doesn’t disturb our planet.

Emily in Paris

Recommended by Matilda

Emily in Paris is about a young American woman who lands a job in a Parisian marketing firm. The show was created by the same person as Sex and The City and has a similar vibe only instead of New York heavily features Paris. It is fun, somewhat campy and an easy watch. While I wouldn’t recommend it as an entirely accurate portrayal of French culture, the scenery is absolutely beautiful and reminds me why Paris is one of my all-time favorite cities.

Best Travel Shows on TV, Amazon Prime Video and Other Streaming Services

The following travel shows and series are available on TV, Amazon Prime Video and/or various streaming services (such as Hulu).

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An Idiot Abroad

Recommended by Haley Plotkin, Ready Set Jet Set

An Idiot Abroad is a hysterical British travel docu-series following Karl Pilkington, a man that one could call an “idiot savant”. What everyone has to know about Karl is, he really does not like to travel. Knowing this, his friends Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, who one may know as famous British comedic actors, send Karl on epic adventures all across the world, with some twists and pranks along the way. These are the kind of trips that most people would kill for, but to Karl, he’d rather be home with a cup of tea. One of the highlights of the show is the Karl-isms along the way, such as: “The Great Pyramid is overrated. It’s a bad design. The lounge is going to be huge, but the bedroom is going to be tiny.” This is really not your typical travel show, and that’s what makes it a must-watch!

Where to Watch: This show is a few years old, so it is not currently airing anywhere in the US (it was created for Sky TV in the UK). In the US, you can buy it digitally on platforms such as Amazon Prime , Vudu , and iTunes .

The Layover

Recommended by Paula Morgan from Expert Abroad

The Layover was just one of the many travel shows that featured everyone’s favourite food traveller Anthony Bourdain. It aired for three seasons between 2011-2013 and after watching the very first episode on a 48-hour visit to New York it will likely change the way you travel forever.

No longer will you book the fastest trip to your destination. A stopover is not viewed as a hardship it is now something to embrace. The series covered 20 cities and racing against the clock Bourdain showed the audience the best things to eat, see and do, usually with a knowledgeable local as his sidekick.

The pace at times seems a little exhausting and you may not manage to cover as much in your 24 hours as the pro’s do but they make it easy for you to pick a few things for your next visit.

The team covered almost all of the main transit hubs across Asia, Europe and the USA including Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco and NYC. Next time you find a cheap flight because of a long stopover check the series list and start making some plans.

Where to Watch: You can watch The Layover on Amazon Prime or The Travel Channel . Some episodes are also on YouTube .

Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

Recommended by Arrianne Guzman from Travel Habeat

Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown is a travel and food show featuring an amazing chef exploring destinations less traveled by. As it inspires you to explore off-the-beaten paths, you’ll delve into intricate cultures, rich history, and beautiful people. You’d realize that a dish is more than what goes in a plate, it’s about tradition, heritage, and way of living. Catch Anthony tries a delectable Filipino dish called sisig and a scrumptious dessert fondly named “halo-halo” while grasping how the Philippines spend an extended Christmas season. Unravel with him the complicated past of Koreatown in Los Angeles and see what it was like to grow up Korean American. Or maybe you’d agree with him how a salad of fermented tea leaves can taste good in Myanmar.

Where to Watch: An original CNN series, it is available in digital media platforms including Amazon Prime , iTunes, and Vudu .

Expedition Unknown

Recommended by Albi from Ginger Around the Globe

Expedition Unknown is a TV show that will sparkle the heart of every traveler, who loves history. Josh Gates will take you around the globe and at the same time, you will see him and other archeologists, solving ancient mysteries. You will get to know about Kruger treasure, where is the tomb of last Inka king and more Indiana Jones mysteries like this. So you will see all kinds of places and at the same time, know their history and local culture. It is very informative, fun and wanderlusty.

Where to Watch: You can watch the show on the Discovery Channel or on the Travel Channel . If you prefer streaming services, you can also find the show on Hulu or Amazon Prime Video .

Rick Steves Travel Series

Recommended by Noel Morata from Travel Photo Discovery

One of my favorite travel shows that turned me onto traveling was watching the PBS travel programs with Rick Steve’s. Primarily focused on travels in Europe, Rick Steve’s showcased an amazing series of places to visit around Europe and each lovely country. He initially visits a destination and hops around with a local expert to show the highlights, enjoy some local food and drink and see some cultural treasures along with connecting with locals, merchants and everyday people. It makes it so fascinating to watch his programs and really shows audiences the connection with people, place, culture and food makes traveling to Europe so wonderful and fun. Rick Steve’s has created a lot of guide books about individual countries that you can purchase or just watch his TV series on PBS for inspiration for planning a trip to a specific country in Europe that has always been on your bucklist of places to visit. So if you are looking for inspiration about a particular country with all the bells and whistles of what makes each area so unique and special, check out any of his programs on TV. You’ll be hooked and wanting to binge watch all of his programs in a row.

Where to Watch: On TV at PBS and Amazon Prime Video

Booze Traveler

Recommended by Megan Starr

One of the best shows to watch for those that love combining travel with beverages and food is Booze Traveler, a show by The Travel Channel that showcases a host traveling around the world in search for special alcoholic drinks in countries that he visits. I actually helped with a couple of the episodes back in the day (Lithuania and Armenia ) and it really brought to light how many unique drinks exist in every place that you travel! They travel across the globe from Hawaii to Armenia to Nepal and beyond. It is a really refreshing show!

Where to Watch: The best way to watch Booze Traveler is to catch reruns on-demand from The Travel Channel in the US. You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video .

Recommended by Coni from Experiencing the Globe

Three Canadian friends decide to leave the Great White North behind and explore the world. They pack a bag, say goodbye to friends and family, and off they go. The initial plan is to spend a year traveling, but it quickly transforms into three whole years.

They spend a month in India, another in Japan, another in New Zealand. As they start feeling more comfortable on the road, the push their own boundaries and head to tougher destinations, like Libya and North Korea. They explore Greenland during winter, meet ancient tribes in Papua New Guinea and travel across the different scientific bases of Antarctica .

It’s impossible not to get inspired with the tons of wanderlust Departure sends our way.

Where to Watch: Available on Apple iTunes and Hoopla .

James May: Our Man in Japan

Recommended by Emma from Emma Jane Explores

Top Gear’s James May might seem like a strange choice for a travel show host, but the bumbling Englishman is an endearing host as he takes viewers on a comprehensive trip around Japan from North to South. Always happy to throw himself into any bizarre situation, Our Man in Japan sees May participate in all sorts of activities from dog sledding in Hokkaido to painting Mount Fuji with a renowned Japanese artist. Streaming on Amazon Prime, Our Man in Japan covers a whole lot of unique quirks that make the country a must-travel destination for all kinds of traveller types. Whether you’re a first timer to Japan or a serial visitor, Our Man in Japan will make you all kinds of eager to get back over to the land of the rising sun soon.

Where to Watch: You can watch on Amazon Prime Video only.

Planet Earth

Recommended by Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

The award-winning, BBC documentary series, Planet Earth was first shown in 2006. It took four years to film, using 71 cameramen in 64 different countries. The series was the most expensive nature documentary series ever commissioned by the BBC and the first to be filmed in high definition. The 11 episode series is narrated by David Attenborough and celebrates the natural world in a way you’ve never seen it before. Each episode features a different biome or habitat on Earth and lasts 50 minutes plus an extra 10 minutes of behind the scenes footage showing the challenges of filming the episode.

Ten years after the first series, Planet Earth II was released showing how animals meet the challenges of surviving in the most iconic habitats on earth. A third sequel is planned to air in 2022.

Where to Watch: All 11 episodes of Planet Earth , and all 6 episodes of Planet Earth II are available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.

Samantha Brown: Places to Love

Recommended by Francesca Makana of Homeroomtravel

Samantha Brown has been an icon in the travel world for my entire life. Back in the day, she was best known for her Passport series . Present-day she hosts Samantha Brown: Places to Love. In this show, Brown showcases some lesser-known destinations, like the Texas Hill Country, and covers things to do in that area. Although she does still cover larger, well-known cities, such as Shanghai, she will not just list the main tourist sites. Instead, she interacts with the locals and finds unique things to do in that location.

Where to Watch: Viewers can catch Places to Love on PBS and select episodes on the PBS website .

Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road Adventure

Recommended by Emily from Wander-Lush

There are few parts of the world that inspire wanderlust more than Central Asia. In this 2018 miniseries, British actress and supermodel, Joanna Lumley (you may recognize her from the 1990s comedy sitcom Absolutely Fabulous) retraces parts of the fabled Silk Road trading route from the perspective of a tourist.

Over four episodes, she travels from Venice to Uzbekistan via Iran, Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan, visiting caravanserais, fire temples and bazaars along the way. This series brings to life the cross-pollination of ideas and influences that characterizes this part of the world where East intersects with West.

Lumley’s dry British humor and insatiable curiosity make her a terrific host. Even if you’re never considered visiting Central Asia and the Caucasus before, this series will inspire you to follow the footsteps of Marco Polo on one of the most epic overland journeys of all time.

Where to Watch: Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road Adventure is currently available to stream via Amazon Prime UK . Some episodes are also on YouTube .

Recommended by Ruby from A Journey We Love

Travel Man is a 30 minute British TV show hosted by Richard Ayoade shown on Channel 4 (UK). Each week, he travels with someone for a quick getaway (48-72 hours) and breaks down tourist sites, what to eat, facts about the city and banters around with his co-presenter for the week. For people living abroad, you can watch some of the shows on Channel 4’s website, and there are also full episodes available on Travel Man’s official YouTube channel . What makes the show interesting is that the host, Richard Ayoade, is not a big traveler nor is he a big fan of trying new things. It makes for a great perspective on how to plan quick weekend getaways for those who are planning trips with people who don’t like to travel and how to make it interesting for them. It also makes the series very funny because watching the host’s reactions and monologues is absolutely priceless.

Where to Watch: For people living abroad, you can watch some of the shows on Channel 4’s website, and there are also full episodes available on Travel Man’s official YouTube channel . You can also find episodes on Amazon Prime Video .

The Amazing Race

Recommended by us

The Amazing Race is our favorite travel show and we have been watching it from the beginning. The American reality competition show has aired 32 seasons on CBS since its premiere in 2001. If you enjoy the drama of reality competition shows and are also a travel lover then you will love The Amazing Race . Each season takes place in a few different countries and in total The Amazing Race has visited over 90 different countries and six continents. Teams of two people (usually couples, friends, or family members) race around the world, solving clues and completing tasks and challenges along the way. Relationships are tested and there are sometimes arguments between teammates and with other teams. The last team to finish each leg is eliminated until three teams race to the finish line in order to win $1 million. Fun fact: We actually applied to be on the show as a sisters team (more than ten years ago and long before we started this blog) but alas we were not chosen!

Where to Watch: You can stream old seasons of the Amazing Race on CBS All Access , Amazon Prime Video and various streaming services such as Hulu .

Did your favorite travel show or series make the list?

Some good recommendations on this list for sure. James May also has some other travel shows that can be found on Netflix, Youtube, etc. Although it’s a Vlog and not a true TV show I would add Kara and Nate’s Vlog show from Youtube. They have visited over a 100 countries and it’s one of the best. If you’ve never watched them, just start with their first show and binge watch it through to today.

Thanks for the suggestion. Will check them out!

I’ll recommend a few new ones. AppleTV has “Long Way Up” from the “Long Way Down” and “Long Way Around” fame. Actor Ewan McGregor and his friend, Charley Boorman from the tip of South America to Los Angeles on electric Harley Davidson motorcycles. I pretty much hate AppleTV+ but this show is so very good. You might check out Max&Lee on Youtube which has recently continued on with Max&Occy. This is one of many Vanlife travel vlogs but it’s better than most. Start at the beginning with Max & Lee and work your way forward for good binge-watching. I will also add in a bonus travel vlog from YouTube and that is Sergio & Rhoda in Isreal. This couple travels around Isreal and shows details about various historical sites with a local flair. Very interesting for those that enjoy this region.

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When a man wakes up in the Australian outback with no memory, he must use the few clues he has to discover his identity before his past catches up with him. When a man wakes up in the Australian outback with no memory, he must use the few clues he has to discover his identity before his past catches up with him. When a man wakes up in the Australian outback with no memory, he must use the few clues he has to discover his identity before his past catches up with him.

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Tv/streaming, collections, great movies, chaz's journal, contributors, the tourist returns for tumultuous second season on netflix.

The first season of “The Tourist” was a clever little thriller over on Max, but that company continued its cavalcade of confusing choices and dumped the second outing, allowing the show to travel to Netflix, where it has been consistently in the top ten for the entirety of February as audiences caught up with year one. That fun season is now followed by a very twisted second one, a 6-episode outing that moves the action from Australia to Ireland—switching the title character if you think about it from one protagonist to the other—and upping the surreal, unpredictable sense of dark humor. It’s a bit of a rockier road in terms of quality, but there’s an admirable lunacy to the storytelling here that holds it together, throwing in new twists and memorable characters in a manner that’s reminiscent of prime Coen brothers, wherein one never knew what was going to happen next, and it was all darkly humorous at the same time. While Danielle Macdonald gets a little lost in the late-season emotion of this year, Jamie Dornan really holds it all together with a deceptively natural, engaging performance. It’s insane Max ever let him go.

The first season of “The Tourist” has a beautiful simplicity in its story of a man who wakes up after a car accident in the Outback with no idea of who he is or how he got there, only to discover that he may not like the guy he used to be. With so many questions answered in what could have been a self-contained season, one might wonder how they could do it again—amnesia a second time? The writers smartly move the action back to Elliot’s (Dornan) homeland in season two as he and Helen (Macdonald) travel there to learn more details about his dark past after receiving a mysterious photo. Before they even really get a pint in them, Elliot is kidnapped and thrown into the middle of a generation-spanning turf war between the families of the Cassidys and the McDonnells. The latter is led by the vicious Frank ( Francis Magee ) and the former by none other than our hero’s mother, Niamh (the excellent Olwen Fouéré ).

A season that opens by separating its heroes and sending one to a remote island where he’s kept prisoner has about a dozen other twists up its sleeve that I wouldn't dare spoil here, as that's the joy of watching the show. Everyone on “The Tourist” hides an odd secret or two, even the seemingly ordinary detective ( Conor MacNeill ), who has something insane going on in his basement. When Helen sees her potential mother-in-law commit murder in the premiere it’s just the beginning of a series of narrative turns that stress that classic suspension of disbelief. “The Tourist” is like those page-turning novels you read on a beach, wherein each chapter ends with an insane new revelation that forces you to read the next before you question if it actually makes any sense at all. It’s really the show’s strength: A sense of breakneck plotting in an era when everyone feels like every show is a few episodes too long for its threadbare plot.

If the plotting is the strength, the emotions of the second season feel a bit like a weakness at times. The love story between Helen and Elliot takes center stage in rather intense ways, and it leads to a number of heartwrenching scenes, especially in the back half, that feel overly melodramatic. “The Tourist” is at its best when it’s not taking itself very seriously, having fun with its characters. Every time it diverts to really define Helen and Elliot’s eternal love, the seams in the writing start to show, and Macdonald gets lost a few times this season in overwrought melodrama that feels unearned. Luckily, she’s balanced by a truly great Dornan performance, one that seems to be honestly responding to every loony twist thrown his way. It’s more subdued that season one, allowing him to be the center as the chaotic world spins around him.

No one really understands what the heck is going on over at Max that they keep canceling movies and dropping content—an underreported recent head scratcher was allowing “Band of Brothers” to be on Netflix while “ Masters of the Air ” was dropping on Apple, which surely reignited interest in the original Playtone production in a manner that one would think would have sent people back to Max, but whatever. Letting “The Tourist” slide over to Netflix may be low on the list of their insane decisions of late, but it’s been funny to watch it slay for the competition, and it's hard to believe that the second season won’t do exactly the same. It’s funny to consider the executives who made the decision to let “The Tourist” go watching this effective second season on Netflix themselves, probably wondering why there aren’t more shows like it on Max.

Whole season screened for review. On Netflix February 29th.

Brian Tallerico

Brian Tallerico is the Managing Editor of RogerEbert.com, and also covers television, film, Blu-ray, and video games. He is also a writer for Vulture, The Playlist, The New York Times, and GQ, and the President of the Chicago Film Critics Association.

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7 shows to watch if you love The Tourist

Check out our recommendations if you liked the tourist.

The Tourist has been the hit show that everyone is talking about right now. The story follows a man with amnesia who, after being hit by a lorry, is determined to find out his identity – and why he was injured in a car crash in the first place. For those who have raced through the episodes on iPlayer and are looking for something new, here are some great shows we think you'll love…

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The Missing - BBC 

By the same writers as The Tourist, The Missing follows the investigation into missing person cases, with investigator Julian Baptiste doing whatever it takes to find answers for the family. Season two was a breakout success and follows the reappearance of a teenage girl who went missing years earlier. But is she really who she says she is?

WATCH: Have you watched the gripping BBC drama The Missing?

Homeland - Netflix

Another protagonist who you have no idea if you can trust? Sign us up. Homeland follows Brody, a former prisoner of war who returns to the US after being rescued. However, CIA agent Mathison is determined that he was turned by the enemy and goes to any length necessary to prove it.

Showtrial - BBC 

Much like 'the man' in The Tourist, Showtrial follows a character who you have no idea if you can trust. After the shocking murder of a working class student on the night of the university ball, the wealthy Talitha and her friend Dilon are arrested for the crime – but did Talitha really do it, or is she innocent as she claims?

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Black Mirror - Netflix

The Tourist 's slight zany dark sense of humour is something that comes up time and time again in Black Mirror , an anthology series that tells a variety of different sci-fi tales about a dystopian future with advanced technology, from murderous robot dogs to rating everyone in your life out of five stars. While some stories are gritty dramas, others have the sort of dramedy vibe that fans of The Tourist will love.

Sense8 - Netflix

Was your favourite part of The Tourist the cat-and-mouse chase as 'the man' attempts to get away from those wanting to kill him? If so, you will love Sense8 on Netflix. The sci-fi show follows a group of people who realise that they are suddenly mentally linked and can borrow each other's abilities and help one another out in various scenarios. However, their powers mean that they are aggressively hunted by the BPO, who are set on finding and killing them.

Close to Me – Channel 4

Like The Tourist, a head injury after falling down the stairs means that the protagonist, Jo, has lost all of her memories from the last year. As she tries to piece together her life, she begins to realise that there is no one that she can trust. A great psychological thriller that keeps you guessing.

The OA - Netflix

A mystery that begins at the end and takes you to places you would never have expected, The OA follows Prairie, a young blind woman who reappears after being missing for seven years – with her eyesight restored. So where was she, and how can she see again?

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7 Shows Like Netflix's The Tourist

Check out these other crime dramas

Jamie Dornan, The Tourist

Two years after it debuted in Australia and on HBO Max, The Tourist is a hit on Netflix. And another season is imminent. If you're looking for more thriller shows to hold you over until Season 2 drops at the end of the month, you've come to the right place. We've rounded up a handful of shows that have something in common with The Tourist , whether it's shocking twists, an off-the-beaten path setting, or the show's stars, like  Jamie Dornan . All of them will have you saying, "Wow, I did not see that coming!"     

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Lucy Fry and John Jarratt, Wolf Ceek

If for some reason The Tourist made you want to take a trip to the hot, dusty, crime-plagued Australian Outback, check out this tense slasher series. Eve ( Lucy Fry ) is on a camping trip with her family when they're attacked by a serial killer. She survives, and sets out on a mission of revenge against the man who took everything from her. (There's also a second season, but telling you what it's about would be a spoiler.) Nothing good happens to travelers in the Outback! The show is based on a notorious 2005 movie of the same name. The movie is better, but the series is still an unusually effective daylight horror-thriller.

The Missing / Baptiste                     

James Nesbitt and Frances O'Connor, The Missing

This British series hails from The Tourist creators Harry and Jack Williams , brothers who make TV thrillers together. The Missing and its spinoff Baptiste follow French detective Julien Baptiste ( Tchéky Kary ), who specializes in finding missing children. Both shows ran for two seasons and feature outstanding British character actors like David Morrissey , Tom Hollander , James Nesbitt , and Fiona Shaw . Like The Tourist , The Missing and Baptiste are twisty thrillers where no one is telling the truth, but don't expect the cheeky humor as they're more serious — but excellent — affairs.       

Jaimie Alexander,  Blindspot

If it's another amnesia thriller you're looking for, Blindspot is a very fun one. It starts when a woman ( Jaimie Alexander ) covered in tattoos from head to toe emerges naked from a duffel bag in Times Square with no memory of who she is but clear instructions to find an FBI agent named Kurt Weller ( Sullivan Stapleton ) inked on her skin. Together, they set out to find out who she is. Over the course of 100 episodes, it evolves into a global conspiracy thriller with an offbeat sense of humor and some of the most intense action you'll ever see in an NBC drama. It's the former quality that really makes it like The Tourist . Both shows often end scenes with an unexpected laugh.

Gillian Anderson, The Fall

Jamie Dornan 's performance as The Tourist 's amnesiac main character is a big part of why the show works. Dornan's brand is charming with menace lurking just below the surface. He often plays men with secrets. Before he broke out big time with Fifty Shades of Grey , he starred in the acclaimed crime drama The Fall in his native Northern Ireland. He plays an apparent family man who is secretly a serial killer preying on women in Belfast. Gillian Anderson plays the cop pursuing him in this cat-and-mouse thriller. If you like British crime dramas — which as a BBC production, The Tourist technically is — The Fall is one of the best.

Jon Hamm, Fargo

Fargo the movie's tagline was "a lot can happen in the middle of nowhere." That's very true for The Tourist , and it's also true of Fargo the show. FX's anthology series is set in the Upper Midwest, a place as cold as the Outback is hot. Like The Tourist , it has unpredictable plotting and a sense of humor. And Danielle Macdonald 's sunny, indefatigable cop Helen Chambers is a Fargo -type character. Going back to Frances McDormand in the movie, Fargo has relied on honest and hardworking female police officers to be the good guys in stories of corruption.

Timothy Olyphant, Justified

If it's another crime caper with smart-mouthed characters, charismatic crooks, and spurts of terrifying violence that you're looking for, Justified is the gold standard. The FX series ran from 2010 to 2015 (with a brief revisit in 2023's Justified: City Primeval ) and feels more like The Tourist Season 1 with its dusty vibes and all the previously mentioned characteristics than the damp Irish setting of Season 2. Timothy Olyphant stars as U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, a silver-tongued lawman who patrols the hollers of rural Kentucky and has several run-ins with a variety of no-gooders. It's a classic for a reason — Season 2 is one of the best seasons of a crime drama ever. - Tim Surette

The Tourist is currently airing on Netflix.

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3 TV shows like Netflix’s The Tourist you should watch right now

Despite what can sometimes feel like a glut of interesting shows on TV, it can sometimes be hard to find great thrillers. The Tourist , a Netflix  show that first debuted in 2022, fits that bill perfectly, telling the story of a man who wakes up in the Australian outback with no idea who he is and has to work to piece together where he comes from and why he’s being chased.

• Blindspot (2015 – 2020)
• Alias (2001 – 2006)
• Severance (2022 – )

While  The Tourist  itself is well worth watching, we’ve pulled a couple of other shows together that have a fairly similar profile. Each of these shows shares something in common with The Tourist , even if they don’t have much in common. Without further ado, here are three shows like The Tourist  you should definitely make time for.

Blindspot (2015 – 2020)

Telling the story of a tattooed woman who shows up in Times Square with no memory of who she is or where she came from, Blindspot  is probably the closest analog to  The Tourist  you’ll find.

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The show mixes elements of a procedural with an ongoing plot, following its central character as she helps to solve the crimes that are scrawled across her body and unravel the mysteries around who she is and where she came from. Blindspot  had a remarkable five-season run and expertly used memory loss to explore how people form their understandings of who they are.

Blindspot can be rented or purchased at digital vendors like Apple TV .

Alias (2001 – 2006)

Alias  was about a lot of things throughout its run on the air, but it does have a major subplot involving memory loss in one of its later seasons. More generally, the show focuses on a young woman who discovers that her family has a history of undercover spy work, and she begins working for what she believes to be a secretive branch of the CIA.

Eventually, though, she realizes that her employer has no connection to the CIA, and that’s where things start to get really fun. Ultimately, the best reason to watch  Alias  is Jennifer Garner (who will pop up later this year in Deadpool 3 as Elektra), but the show still holds up remarkably well 20 years later.

All five seasons of Alias can be streamed for free on Freevee.

Severance (2022 – )

Another show where memory plays a very prominent role, Severance ‘s setting is nonetheless pretty different from  The Tourist ‘s. Here, we follow a group of office workers who work for a company that requires them to “sever” themselves, essentially meaning that their work selves have no idea who they are outside work, and their outside selves have no idea who they are at work.

It’s a fascinating commentary on what it’s like to work at a corporation, but it’s also a remarkably intricate thriller in which the company that they’re working for has much more sinister designs than you may initially realize.

Severance season one is streaming on Apple TV+ . Season 2 is currently being filmed.

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Apples Never Fall is Peacock’s latest in the mystery drama genre. Based on the book by Liane Moriarty, the series features an incredible cast led by Annette Bening and Sam Neill and set in the beautiful backdrop of Miami. When family matriarch Joy (Bening) mysteriously goes missing, it’s up to the kids and her husband to figure out what happened to her. Fingers point to a young woman who showed up at the doorstep months prior looking for help and who ended up befriending Joy. But evidence seems to suggest her husband Stan (Neill) might have had something to do with it, a fact their four grown kids can’t seem to reconcile. Every episode tells a different part of the story, revealing secrets, lies, and betrayal behind the family’s seemingly pristine façade.

With all seven episodes available to stream at once, anyone who watches will power through the twists, turns, and reveals to watch right through to the end. Once done, however, you’ll be looking for something else. If you liked Apples Never Fall, these three shows are worth checking out as well. Big Little Lies (2017-2019) Big Little Lies HBO

New TV shows are hitting Netflix in March. One of the buzziest shows of the month is The Gentlemen, an action comedy series inspired by Guy Ritchie's 2019 film of the same name. Young Royals and Girls5eva each return for third seasons, with the latter making its debut after previously airing on Peacock. Additionally, the creators of Game of Thrones make their highly anticipated return to scripted television with 3 Body Problem.

These shows are only some of the hundreds available for consumption. There are plenty of underrated shows to watch on Netflix. You just need to know where to look. Luckily, we found three TV shows you need to watch this month, including a docuseries about a soccer icon, an intriguing thriller, and a sequel to a popular sitcom. Beckham (2023)

When it comes to TV shows, Peacock is best known for streaming NBC's current lineup ,as well as a handful of classic series from the Universal TV catalog. However, there are also a handful of hidden TV gems that get overshadowed by Peacock originals. That's why we're shining a spotlight on the three underrated shows on Peacock that you need to watch.

This month's picks include two British shows – a thriller and a superhero series – as well as a USA original legal drama that was one of Suits' contemporaries during its original run. Between these three shows, you'll have more than enough to binge in March. Vigil (2021-Present)

The 10 most popular TV shows on Netflix right now

E xploring the thousands of titles on Netflix can be both exciting and overwhelming. Content of all types abounds, from dramas and comedies to reality shows and documentaries. It’s a good thing there’s a list to help narrow your decision by letting you see the most popular Netflix shows. That’s right, every week, Netflix releases its list of the 10 most-watched TV shows over a recent seven-day period.

For the first time in 2024, no new show cracked the top five.  The Gentleman  is now in the top spot, while  The Program  slides back to No. 2. However, the four new shows this week – Steve Treviño: Simple Man, Bandidos, Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War , and  Blow Away – occupied four of the final five spots in the top 10. Below, we have listed the top 10 shows in the U.S. from March 11 to March 17 , along with general information about each show, including genre, rating, cast, and synopsis.

We’ve also rounded up the best shows on Netflix , the best movies on Hulu , the best movies on Amazon Prime , and the best movies on Disney+ . For Netflix fans, also check out the 10 most popular movies on Netflix right now .

10. Blown Away season 4 (2019)

• IMDb: 7.2/10
• Rated: TV-PG
• Genre: Reality
• Cast: Katharine Gray, Hunter March

Step inside the world of glass-blowing in Blown Away . In this Canadian reality series, some of the best artisans gather in North America’s largest hot shop for a glass-blowing competition. 10 contestants compete in a series of competitions that will test their creativity, ingenuity, and originality.

Hosted by Hunter March and judged by Katherine Gray, Blown Away contestants will battle to win three prestigious prizes: $100,000, a residency at the Corning Museum of Glass, and a residency in Venice, Italy, with famous glass artist Adriano Berengo.

Watch on Netflix

9. Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War season 1 (2024)

• IMDb: 8.0/10
• Rated: TV-14
• Genre: Documentary

As one of the experts proclaims in the Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War trailer , “The Cold War was the first war in history that held the possibility of ending in apocalypse.” The history of the decades-long conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union plays out in the nine-part documentary series by director Brian Knappenberger.

From the threat of nuclear war after the development of the atomic bomb by J. Robert Oppenheimer to the collapse of the Soviet Union, Turning Point examines the circumstances surrounding the Cold War and what led to its end. The series also spotlights the present-day conflict between Russia and Ukraine and features an exclusive interview with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

8. Hot Wheels Let's Race season 1 (2024)

• IMDb: 7.4/10
• Rated: TV-Y
• Genre: Animation, Kids, Action & Adventure
• Cast: Griffen Campbell, Grey DeLisle, Jakari Fraser
• Created by: Rob David, Jordan Gershowitz, Melanie Shannon

If your kids love to play with Hot Wheels, they’ll certainly love Hot Wheels Let’s Race , the TV series inspired by the popular Mattel product. The action comedy series follows a new crop of racers: Axle, Brights, Coop, Mac, Sidecar, and Spark. The six racers head to racing camp to experience awesome challenges, extreme stunt contests, and out-of-this-world races.

Helping to capture the speed and ferocity of the series will be music from Patrick Stump of the Grammy-winning band Fall Out Boy . Hot Wheels Let’s Race is intended to be watched by the whole family, so sit back, relax, and get ready to go fast.

7. Bandidos season 1 (2024)

• IMDb: 6.5/10
• Rated: TV-MA
• Genre: Action & Adventure
• Cast: Alfonso Dosal, Ester Expósito, Juan Pablo Medina

It’s Money Heist   meets Outer Banks in Bandidos , a new crime adventure series on Netflix. When the famous archaeologist Juan Morales (Bruno Bichir) is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, his son Miguel (Alfonso Dosal) takes it upon himself to help the family financially. However, Miguel is broke and in desperate need of money. Miguel’s luck changes when he finds a map of Snake King’s treasure, the biggest score in history.

No one has ever found the treasure, which doesn’t stop Miguel from trying. Miguel will need some help and recruits an unlikely group of bandits – scam artist Lilí (Expósito), hacker Lucas (Juan Pablo Fuentes), and Miguel’s counterfeiter uncle (Juan Pablo Medina) – to join him on this dangerous mission throughout the Caribbean.

6. Steve Treviño: Simple Man (2024)

• IMDb: 6.6/10
• Duration: 56m
• Genre: Comedy
• Stars: Steve Trevino

Steve Treviño is trying to get by as a simple man, which is the name of his latest Netflix stand-up comedy special . Filmed at The Tobin Center in San Antonio, Texas, Simple Man is a showcase for Treviño to riff on what it’s like to be a husband, father, and son. The upbeat comedian jokes about what it’s like living with a “Type-A Virgo wife,” his dad’s spaghetti sandwiches, and pizza parties.

Treviño is not a raunchy comedian. Instead, he likes to use his wife, Renae, as a muse for his bits. Simple Man marks Treviño’s first Netflix special since 2014’s Relatable . His most recent special, I Speak Wife, was self-financed and released on YouTube in 2022.

5. Avatar: The Last Airbender season 1 (2024)

• Metacritic: 56%
• Genre: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Action & Adventure, Drama
• Cast: Gordon Cormier, Kiawentiio, Ian Ousley

After years in development, Avatar: The Last Airbender , the long-awaited live-action adaptation of the famous Nickelodeon animated series, has finally arrived on Netflix. In The Last Airbender , four elements – Water, Earth, Fire, and Air – make up the four nations, which used to live in harmony.

After the Fire Nation destroyed the Air Nomads, the Firebenders set out to conquer the world. In the Air Nation, Aang, a 12-year-old boy, discovers he is the Avatar capable of bending all four elements. With the help of his friends, Aang embarks on an adventure to save the world from destruction. 

4. The Signal (2024)

• IMDb: 5.9/10
• Genre: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama, Mystery
• Cast: Florian David Fitz, Peri Baumeister, Yuna Bennett

Scientist and astronaut Paula (Baumeister) is heading home. After months in space, Paula finally returns to Earth. The day before going home, Paula’s flight home mysteriously vanishes. Where it went, nobody knows. Paula’s husband, Sven (Florian David Fitz), is in disbelief, refusing to believe his wife’ has simply vanished. Sven even shields his daughter, Charlie (Yuna Bennett), from the news.

When all hope seems lost, Sven gets a clue: Paula left him a riddle that could solve her disappearance. At first, Sven believes the clues do not lead to Paula’s location. However, these signals might be warnings of a disaster heading his way. How far is Sven willing to go to discover the truth?

3. Love Is Blind season 6 (2020)

• Metacritic: 62%
• IMDb: 6.2/10
• Cast: Nick Lachey, Vanessa Lachey
• Created by: Chris Coelen

Love is Blind is back for season 6. Netflix’s dating experiment welcomes 30 new singles to the pods as they search for love. The singles try to form relationships by talking to each other through a speaker. When the daters make a connection, they can extend a marriage proposal.

If a marriage proposal is accepted, the contestants can finally meet each other face-to-face. After a couples retreat and a multiweek stint living together, it all comes down to the wedding. Will the couple go through with the marriage or end the engagement? New episodes will be released every Wednesday for the remainder of February before the finale on March 6.

2. The Program: Cons, Cults and Kidnapping (2024)

• Metacritic: 80%
• IMDb: 7.7/10

In Ogdensburg, New York, there was a behavior modification facility call the Academy at Ivy Ridge. Advertised as a boarding school, the Academy was designed to advise troubled teens and work on their issues before they went to college. However, the students didn’t realize they were entering a facility that didn’t care about how they were treated. Human decency was thrown out the door in favor of rampant abuse.

The kids’ freedoms – talking, smiling, and contact with the outside world – were taken away upon arrival. One of the students was Katherine Kubler, who struggled to cope with the trauma she experienced after leaving the Academy. Kubler documents her experiences in The Program: Cons, Cults and Kidnapping , a harrowing look into how a behavior facility became a breeding ground for abusers.

1. The Gentlemen season 1 (2024)

• Metacritic: 67%
• IMDb: 8.4/10
• Genre: Comedy, Drama, Action & Adventure, Crime
• Cast: Theo James, Kaya Scodelario, Daniel Ings
• Created by: Guy Ritchie

In his first television series, Guy Ritchie brings his expertise in the comedy/crime caper genre to The Gentlemen , which is based on his film of the same name. While Matthew McConaughey led the movie, Theo James headlines the series as Eddie Horniman, a former soldier who becomes the Duke of Halstead when he inherits his father’s estate.

When he tries to sell the estate, Eddie meets Susie Glass (Kaya Scodelario), who informs the Duke that a sale can’t happen. Below the estate is a massive cannabis farm, which is part of a criminal empire owned by Bobby Glass (Ray Winstone). Susie, Bobby’s daughter, runs the day-to-day operations. Thrust into a new livelihood, Eddie must adapt fast if he wants to continue in the family business.

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Ireland hopeful lindsay lohan will boost tourism, lindsay lohan ireland hoping for tourism bump ... after 'irish wish' goes #1, exclusive 1.6k 3/23/2024 12:50 am pt.

Lindsay Lohan 's a leading lady once again, and the Irish are celebrating ... 'cause they're hoping her new flick is the lucky charm they need to boost tourism in that country.

A rep for Tourism Ireland -- an official arm of the Irish government -- tells TMZ ... their team is super excited that Lohan's new movie "Irish Wish" came outta the gates #1 on Netflix, and they've got fingers crossed that it inspires people to travel to the Emerald Isle.

We're told they think their homeland looks magnificent in the film, and they appreciate how the directors added some iconic locations -- like Killruddery House and the Cliffs of Moher -- to the movie.

Tourism Ireland is also looking at the impact other movies and TV shows have had on tourism in the country. They note the spike their neighboring nation of Northern Ireland got after "Game of Thrones" filmed there -- and tons of people apparently hit up Inis Mor and Achill Island to see "The Banshees of Inisherin" locations.

Despite their hopes ... Ireland Tourism told us they can't tell if "Irish Wish" has made an impact yet, but they're hoping to see one soon enough, and are dreaming easy streaming access to the film will keep people coming to the island for many years.

"Irish Wish" came out last weekend on Netflix, reaching over 1 million households during the weekend according to some reports -- performing even better than her Christmas movie, 2022's "Falling for Christmas," did on the streamer.

'Falling' marked Lohan's first major feature-length film role in years, so it seems she's fully back in movie-making mode -- especially with projects performing as well as "Irish Wish."

BTW ... tons of people may be watching "Irish Wish," but it doesn't mean they're loving it. The film's got a pretty disappointing 37% on Rotten Tomatoes.

But, who knows ... with a little luck, Ireland's tourism wish may just come true. 🍀

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Where was 'Irish Wish' filmed? Photos show what 6 locations look like in real life

• "Irish Wish," out now on Netflix, is Lindsay Lohan's latest romantic comedy.
• It follows the American editor Maddie, played by Lohan, as she attends a crush's wedding in Ireland.
• Here's what the beautiful Irish settings in the movie look like in real life.

" Irish Wish ," Netflix's latest movie starring Lindsay Lohan , transports viewers to the stunning views of Ireland's mountains, lakes, and sea cliffs.

The new rom-com follows Maddie, played by Lohan, an American editor with a major crush on her client, Paul Kennedy, played by Alexander Vlahos. When Paul falls for Maddie's best friend, Emma, played by Elizabeth Tan, Maddie is forced to attend their wedding in Paul's home country, Ireland. Chaos ensues when Maddie makes a wish to be Paul's fiancée and it comes true.

Janeen Damian, the director behind Lohan's other Netflix rom-com, " Falling for Christmas ," directed "Irish Wish."

"Falling For Christmas" was an immediate hit for Netflix and spent six weeks on the streamer's top 10 most-watched movie list in 2022. Such was the hype around Lohan that she signed a two-picture deal with Netflix to produce and star in two more h oliday-themed movies for the streamer before "Falling for Christmas" was even released.

"Irish Wish" is one of the movies; the other, " Our Little Secret ," will be released later this year and stars Kristin Chenoweth and Chris Parnell.

Here's what the locations look like in real life.

Warning: Major spoilers ahead for "Irish Wish," available to stream on Netflix.

Maddie lands in County Mayo, in west Ireland, at the beginning of the movie.

When Maddie, Paul, Emma, and their friend Heather, played by Ayesha Curry, fly from New York to Ireland, they land at Ireland West Airport, also known as Knock Airport.

According to Google Flights, a weeklong economy-class round-trip ticket from New York to Knock Airport starts at $954.

After losing her bag, Maddie takes a bus from the airport to Paul's family home, Kennedy Estate.

On the way, she passes Cronin's Sheebeen, an award-winning pub in County Mayo, where Knock Airport is. It's just under an hour's drive from Knock Airport .

Paul's family home is Killruddery House on Ireland's east coast.

Maddie eventually gets to Kennedy Estate, which, in real life, is called Killruddery House, an 800-acre privately owned estate.

Killruddery House was rebuilt in 1651 after a fire destroyed the original in 1645. The Brabazon family has owned the house since 1618 and it's under the stewardship of Anthony and Fionnuala Brabazon, the Lord and Lady Ardee. The private property can be booked for weddings, events, and films.

Anthony Brabazon told RTE in March 2023 that Killruddery House hosts roughly 25 weddings a year.

A drive from Knock Airport to Killruddery House would take almost three hours because it's in County Wicklow, on the east coast of Ireland. The trip to Killruddery House from the airport would be in the opposite direction of Cronin's Sheebeen, so Maddie's journey does not really make sense .

Lough Tay is also in County Wicklow and is nearly a half-hour drive from Killruddery House.

In the film, the wedding party has a picnic by a lake before the big day. They visit Lough Tay, a lake in Wicklow. It is there when the magical mayhem begins after Maddie makes a wish to the Irish saint Brigid, played by Dawn Bradfield.

Lough Tay is part of the Guinness Estate, meaning it's privately owned, and the public can only view it from the Sally Gap mountain pathway.

The Irish Times reported that Italian Count Luca Rinaldo Contardo Padulli di Vighignolo bought the property in 2019, but the publication estimated that he paid less than the property's over $30 million price tag .

Though Scruffy Murphy's is real, the pub in 'Irish Wish' is an amalgamation of two buildings in Ireland.

At least four scenes in "Irish Wish" play out in or around a pub called Scruffy Murphy's. While this is the name of numerous Irish pubs in and outside Ireland, the "Irish Wish" pub is completely fictional.

RTE reported that the crew used Matt Molloy's in County Mayo for the exterior shots of Scruffy Murphy's. The interior scenes were shot in the Hollywood Inn and Tutty's of Hollywood, two pubs situated next to each other in County Wicklow .

There are numerous scenes in Westport, which is in County Mayo.

Many "Irish Wish" scenes unfold in a small town in County Mayo called Westport. This is where Maddie reconnects with James Thomas, played by Ed Speleers , a photographer she fights with at Knock Airport. After the magical wish goes awry, Maddie also meets James again in the same town center.

The roundabout area where Maddie falls into James' car is called the Octagon.

West Coast Rare Books, the bookshop James enters in the film, and Westport Florist, the other shop James walks past, are real stores in Westport.

Steffen Kowalsky, the owner of West Coast Rare Books, told Business Insider via email that the "Irish Wish" crew did not change a single part of the store when they came to film the scene.

"It is nice to see that your shop is attractive enough to form the background of a movie," Kowalsky said. "Naturally, it is also good for any business whenever Ireland and/or Westport is introduced to a larger audience."

He added: "The whole shoot took a few hours one morning, and the shop was open as usual in the afternoon. It was an interesting experience."

But the bridal shop where Maddie receives her wedding dress is not real. RTE reported that Kelly's Tweeds & Knitwear in the Octagon was turned into a bridal store for the film.

The Cliffs of Moher are actually in County Clare. It would take more than three hours to drive there from Killruddery House.

The Cliffs of Moher are a scenic coastal area used halfway through the movie and again at the end. James and Maddie visit it together because it's their favorite spot.

The Cliffs of Moher aren't in County Mayo. They are found in County Clare, roughly a 2 ½-hour drive south of Westport.

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most popular tourist destinations . In 2022, over 1.3 million people visited the site, the majority (41%) coming from the US, the Cliffs of Moher Visitors website says. An adult ticket to the site costs about $7.62.

Disclosure: Mathias Döpfner, CEO of Business Insider's parent company, Axel Springer, is a Netflix board member.

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Netflix announces crime drama set in amsterdam’s cannabis scene.

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Amsterdam, Netherlands - December 14, 2017: Amsterdam is famous for its vibrant and diverse ... [+] nightlife. Amsterdam has many cafẻs (bars). They range from large and modern to small and cozy. Under the drug policy of the Netherlands, the sale of cannabis products in small quantities is allowed by licensed coffeeshops. The majority of these also serve drinks and food.

Netflix has announced a new cannabis show based on a crime drama set in Amsterdam, bringing out the cannabis scene of the Dutch capital.

Netflix European executive Larry Tanz announced on March 19 the new Dutch original Amsterdam Empire starring Famke Janssen amid the international TV series festival Series Mania.

The seven-part series delves into the Amsterdam cannabis scene, following Jack van Doorn, the notorious founder of the coffee shop empire Jackal, navigating a career fraught with battles against criminals, rivals, and the complexities of Dutch regulations. However, when his affair with a prominent journalist is exposed, he realizes that his most formidable adversary has been close to him all along: his betrayed wife, Betty (portrayed by Famke Janssen), a former pop star, privy to all of Jack's vulnerabilities and secrets. She is determined to take revenge on Jack by stripping him of everything he holds dear.

Written and created by Nico Moolenaar, Piet Matthys and Bart Uytdenhouwen, directed by Jonas Govaerts, and produced by Amsterdam-based Pupkin, Amsterdam Empire is expected to be released in 2025.

While Jack's adventures may be fictional, they wouldn't stray far from the reality of the Amsterdam cannabis scene.

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, the netherlands cannabis scene.

Amsterdam is, without a doubt, one of the main attractions and probably the most popular for the cannabis scene in Europe due to the Netherlands' unique cannabis policy, which has shaped a distinct cannabis culture over the years.

Despite what one might think, cannabis is formally illegal in the Netherlands. But instead of implementing a prohibitionist approach, the country has adopted a toleration policy known as "gedoogbeleid."

Under this toleration policy , coffee shops are allowed to sell cannabis under specific strict conditions. A coffee shop is an establishment where cannabis is sold, but alcoholic drinks are neither sold nor consumed. Although this policy extends to cannabis and other soft drugs listed by the government, it's illegal to possess, sell, or produce hard drugs such as heroin, cocaine, amphetamine, and ecstasy.

It's worth noting that although it has been adopted by the Dutch government in its drug policy, the existence of the distinction between hard and soft drugs based on their harmfulness is currently a subject of scientific debate .

Coffee shops have flourished in the Netherlands since the 1970s. Today, there are about 570 coffee shops in the Netherlands, spread across 102 municipalities.

What makes the Dutch tolerance cannabis policy unique is that while it's illegal to cultivate cannabis for sale, coffee shops are supplied by illegal farms, with law enforcement adopting a "turning a blind eye" policy.

Therefore, this creates a situation, also known as "backdoor policy," where a significant portion of the cannabis industry operates through illegal channels.

Cannabis Tourism In Amsterdam

This policy setup has spurred cannabis tourism in the Netherlands, particularly in Amsterdam, home to over 160 coffee shops, with millions of tourists each year flooding the Dutch capital. The popularity of Amsterdam's coffee shops has prompted the municipality to launch a campaign to discourage young tourists from engaging in wild partying, which often results in noise and misconduct, and a ban on cannabis smoking in the Red Light District.

At the same time, the Netherlands has recently launched a pilot program involving ten municipalities— excluding Amsterdam —to monitor the sale of legal cannabis supplied from authorized sources. This experiment may indicate a shift away from the current tolerance policy towards an as yet undefined path toward cannabis legalization.

Cannabis Shows On Streaming Platforms

Therefore, given this context, it would be intriguing to see how Netflix's Amsterdam Empire will delve deeper into the cannabis scene in Amsterdam.

Cannabis-themed shows are not new to streaming platforms. Over the past few years, numerous shows featuring cannabis have been streamed, including movies, series, and reality shows.

Among them are the Harold & Kumar movies, known for their cannabis-themed comedy and popularity from 2004 to 2011. Also, there's The Marijuana Show , a reality series that intertwines entrepreneurship with the cannabis sector. Weeds , a pioneering mainstream series focused on cannabis, features Mary-Louise Parker as a suburban mother who resorts to selling cannabis to sustain her affluent lifestyle following her husband's passing. Lastly, there's High Maintenance , a highly acclaimed dramedy series that intricately connects the lives of New Yorkers through their shared connection to a cannabis supplier known as The Guy.

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