From the serene beauty of one man's architectural love poem to a woman, the Taj Mahal, to the crowded alleys of downtown New Delhi, India is a feast for the senses.

Rudy Maxa's World

Delhi and Agra, India

Tour the royal rooms behind the sandstone walls of the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur. In the countryside, villagers who have never seen a Westerner invite Rudy Maxa into their homes, and the maharajah of Jodhpur explains why his palace is now a hotel.

Rajasthan, India

From the Romans to the Ottomans, this tumultuous city has seen it all, and its architecture, cuisine, and customs reflect that reality. Tour the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Spice Market.

Istanbul, Turkey

Ancient towns of Ephesus, Antalya, Myra and Dalyan dot the Turkish coast, tempting visitors to step back in time when lavish Roman homes and markets dotted the landscape. Boarding a gullet, Rudy departs from the popular seaside town of Bodrum.

Turkey's Turquoise Coast

Rudy takes you off the beaten path into the quiet canals of Bangkok. Marvel at the Emerald Buddha, visit the city's fresh markets, join locals at outdoor shrines, celebrate the king's 80th birthday with an all-night party, and more.

Bangkok, Thailand

The saffron robes of Buddhist monks, the vivid colors of local blossoms, and the brilliant emerald of rice fields make the Golden Triangle a magical corner of the world. Join Rudy as he takes mahout lessons and gets soaked steering his elephant.

Thailand, The Golden Triangle

Andaman Coast towns such as Phuket are well known to backpackers and sun seekers. Join Rudy as he paddles through hidden entrances of small islands to find mangroves few people ever see. Also, visit the dramatic rock formations of Phang-nga Bay.

Thailand, The Andaman Islands

Venture to Estonia and the islands of Saaremaa and Muhu where you will find windmills, thatch-roofed farmhouses, and quiet waters. Rudy interviews Mart Laar who took over Estonia under tough conditions following the withdrawal of Soviet troops.

Estonia

From the splendors of Peterhof to the quiet grace of the city's canals, this former capital built by a czar has reclaimed its position as one of the world's great destinations. St. Petersburg, enjoying a renaissance, has lifted its gloom.

St. Petersburg, Russia

The style and verve of one of South America's most beautiful capitals is highlighted with Argentina's national dance, the tango, as well as the energy that its diverse population brings to the city. Discover a very special place in Buenos Aires.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

As Rudy ascends into the thin air of the Andes, he stops to visit the graveyard of those who died climbing Aconcagua. Rudy's next choice for high-altitude adventure? Getting soaked whitewater rafting. Back at sea level he meets Malbec winemakers.

Mendoza, Argentina

From bathing in the neon lights of the Shibuya neighborhood at night, to marveling at the city's spring explosion of cherry blossoms, to learning your fortune by consulting a joss-stick at a Buddhist temple, Tokyo offers fascinating experiences.

Tokyo, Japan

The spiritual heart of Japan, Kyoto offers a glimpse of Japanese life as it used to be. Comfortable streets with wooden homes, impressive temples, and a dedication to ancient Japanese traditions make Kyoto one of Japan's most visited cities.

Kyoto, Japan

Pluto

From the world's largest city, Tokyo to the colorful chaos of Delhi, and from the modern miracle of Seoul to the teeming streets of Bangkok, this is your passport to the marvels and back-street secrets of four of the world's most amazing Asian cities.

Asian Cities

For sheer tropical splendor, the islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora stand alone. Hyper blue lagoons, white-sand beaches, fish of every shape, size, and color, as well as a generous and welcoming people make these islands key destinations for world travelers.

Tahiti and Bora Bora

Experience Polynesia's rich sea life and vibrant cultures. Tour the diverse coral reefs, sea turtle rehabilitation centers, and the many islands and atolls. Participate in the oyster-cultivation process at a pearl farm and tour dramatic Marquesas Islands.

French Polynesia

Two of the most unique cities in the world are flourishing just north of New England. Here you will find brie, pate, jewel box-patisseries, and “s'il vous plait,” right along with bagels, maple syrup, hockey, delis, and bocce ball.

Montreal and Quebec City

From the charming fishing towns of Nova Scotia to the vast wilderness of Newfoundland, explore the last great open spaces of Eastern North America, a region that was peopled by the descendants of hardy colonists.

Nova Scotia & Newfoundland

In Istanbul's Spice Market, cinnamon, cumin, ginger, and cardamom infuse the air. From haggis in Scotland to soba and tea in Japan, from asada in Argentina to bibimbap in Korea, food and drink help illustrate the culture and people of a location.

Food, Drink, and Culture

Rudy Maxa's World is the ultimate travel experience. Join Rudy Maxa, America's leading high-end travel expert, public radio's original Savvy Traveler, and contributing editor for National Geographic Traveler magazine, as he explores our fascinating world.

Asian Cities

Full Episodes

Season 3, 6 episodes