Samantha Brown Episodes
Season 2, Episode 1
Mykonos, Greece
As one of the most popular of the Greek islands, Mykonos is best known for its white-washed homes stacked like sugar cubes on the hillsides, all facing an impossibly blue Aegean Sea. In this episode, travel expert Samantha Brown will reveal what this gem of an island oasis has to offer. She'll get lost in the labyrinth of narrow streets in Mykonos Town, arrive barefoot at a stylish beach-side taverna (café), ferry a ride to the ancient ruins of a lost civilization, join islanders stomping grapes at a local harvest festival, and learn a few tips on dancing the night away Greek-style! Mykonos is a very social island - its all about drinking, eating and having fun with people who you just met. Samantha discovers that this Greek island is a place where people from around the world come together to have an absolute blast!
Season 2, Episode 2
Athens, Greece
In this episode, Samantha Brown will climb to the top of Acropolis to experience for herself the presence of its greatest temple - The Parthenon! The averagevisitor spends only one night in Athens, and as Samantha discovers two days is not enough to absorb this incredible city and its culture. Samantha follows in the footsteps of Socrates as she explores the Ancient Agora archeological site - where democracy was practiced for the very first time. She'll head to the Plaka, a marketplace and favorite stop for travelers. She'll order up a gyro, sip ouzo at an outdoor taverna, stay at a hotel that brings a breath of "Fresh"-ness to the city,and she sees what the coffee craze is all about in one of Athens' chicest neighborhoods. The pleasures of Greece's capital city are in the discovering of its antiquities, early Christian churches, old tavernas and modern cafes, sometimes surprisingly all on the same street. Samantha learns that when you travel to Athens be prepared to experience 2,500 years of the uninterrupted history and tradition of Greece.
Season 2, Episode 3
Santorini, Greece
Travel expert Samantha Brown visits the magical island of Santorini, Greece. Here, white-washed villages stretch thin and dangle over the rim of a still active volcano - one that has destroyed the island many times over. She'll explore Santorini's cliff-side towns and travel down their vertical passageways that take her deep into a world she never knew existed. She'll taste test wine with flavors descended from Ancient times, sit at a harbor-side taverna (restaurant) and order up the freshest of fish straight from the sea to her plate. She'll take in the island's nightlife with traditional Greek music, visit a couple who call an island cave their home, and she'll meet a local artist whose passion for beauty has decorated one of Santorini's most famous cathedrals. Finally, most visitors to Santorini explore its villages but Samantha finds that a catamaran cruise around the island shows off a whole new perspective. The island's stunning physical beauty is why so many people find Santorini alluring, but it's the lifestyle and the famous Greek hospitality that draws them back time and time again.
Season 2, Episode 4
Crete, Greece
In this episode, travel expert Samantha Brown touches down on the Greek Island of Crete and discovers its overwhelming presence! Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands. It sits at the crossroads of three continents; Europe, Asia and Africa.it's the mythological birthplace of the god Zeus, but perhaps its most fascinating fact is that Crete is home to the very first European civilization - the Minoans. Samantha's first stop is the harbor town of Chiana - its colorful collection of architecture reflects the many cultures that have invaded this remote island and made it their home. She gets a tip for the top souvenir - a Cretan knife, and orders up some authentic local fare from a unique restaurant in a former Turkish bathhouse. She'll visit the countryside to experience what 17th farm life might have been like, and she'll toast Crete's traditional drink, Raki, straight from a working still. For some insight into island culture, she's invited to a special baptism, and Samantha will team up with a Greek tour guide to uncover ancient treasures at the famed Archeological Museum, and then walk through the Palace of Knossos - one of the most visited archeological sites in all of Greece, second only to the Acropolis in Athens. Samantha finds out that just like archeologists and historians when it comes to discovering Crete you are only scratching the surface.
Season 2, Episode 5
Normandy, France
In this episode of Passport to Europe, Samantha Brown takes us on an unforgettable journey to Normandy, France. Normandy sits in the northwestern corner of France, less than 2 hours from Paris, and is most remembered for its role in D-Day and the allied landings of WW2, but Samantha discovers there are so many more reasons to visit this region, and some are sure to surprise you.Did you know that its home to a monument that challenges the Eiffel Tower as Europe's greatest attraction? It's called Le Mont-St-Michel, and the only way to walk to it is to wait for low tide. Did you know that Normandy is the only place in France where the lowly apple outshines the grape? At the annual Apple Festival Sam joins other festival goers for a glimpse at this year's famous apple sculpture - a tribute to rock and roll music. And finally, Samantha explores what may be one of the most picturesque towns in France --- a 15 year old artist came here to paint his "impressions" of the place - he was Claude Monet and the picture perfect town was Honfleur. Samantha's own journey through Normandy leaves her with a memorable impression.
Season 2, Episode 6
Brittany, France
Samantha Brown takes us to an area of France that may challenge your notions of this country. It's a region, which even though is in France does not consider itself of France. It's the region of Brittany along France's northwestern tip. There's a lot of ground to cover so Samantha begins in the town of Quimper at the Faience Pottery factory - this hand-made pottery is a must buy. Her next stop the Breton village of Locronan, once famous for sail making; here she'll pop into a pub to learn a bit of the Breton language and the proper stages of drunkenness. Samantha makes it to the port of Le Guilvenic just in time to see the daily parade; not of floats but colorful fishing boats unloading their catch of the day. And the most sought after oysters in the world are farm-raised in Benodet, Samantha fills up on the Breton oyster. A trip through Brittany gives the traveler a unique experience - it's not just its culture or language that's unusual, it's the mood and atmosphere you'll find here. Samantha's journey through this unique region of France has her asking the question; Is Brittany at the edge of a country or does it begin one?
Season 2, Episode 7
Oxford/Stratford, England
The cities of Stratford-Upon-Avon and Oxford may be centers of the English language, but travel expert Samantha Brown finds that they're anything but dry and dusty. In Stratford-Upon-Avon, Samantha visits the renowned Royal Shakespeare Company! Then, in the quintessential college town of Oxford, Samantha discovers that much of "Alice in Wonderland" was based on a real girl at the school; the inspiration for the Great Hall in "Harry Potter"; and how to stay inside the boat while punting down the local river. Join Samantha as she takes in a few lessons about these two historic cities.
Season 2, Episode 8
Cornwall, England
They come from around the world to surf these waves; its rugged coastline inspires creativity and has spawned art communities; their vineyards grow award-winning wine! If you're thinking of California, think again. In this episode of Passport to Europe, travel expert, Samantha Brown discovers Cornwall, England! She will visit Penzance, which is within walking distance from St. Michael's Mount. she's a little surprised to find out she has to "walk on water". Her final stop is to the Minack Theatre, a breathtaking forum that has been carved out of the rocky cliffs overlooking the ocean. Join Samantha as she experiences the surprisingly sunny culture of this magnificent region.
Season 2, Episode 9
Provence, France
Samantha's packed her bags and is headed to one of France's most popular destinations - the region of Provence. Everyone knows the idyllic Provence;picturesque medieval towns, fields of fragrant lavender, and sidewalk cafes,but Provence holds a few surprises too. In the town of Nimes, Samantha discovers a real Roman coliseum - which once held chariot races, now its bullfighting? Samantha dons the wardrobe of a matador and tries her hand at this unlikely French sport. Did you know that seven Popes once ruled from the town of Avignon? The grape vines they planted back in the 14th century have grown into one of the world's greatest wineries; Chateauneuf du Pape. And if you thought that blue jeans were as American as apple pie, then you may be surprised to find out the origins of demin came straight out of Provence!
Season 2, Episode 10
Marseilles, France
In this episode of Passport to Europe, Samantha Brown travels to the city of Marseille - a destination different from what you'd expect when you conjure up images of the Provence region in France. It's not sprawling hills, scenic countryside, and lavender-scented air - Marseille is raw and exotic! As one of Europe's oldest seaports, Marseille continues to be a remarkable mix of cultures, dialects, dress and food. Once famous for its seedier side; today Samantha finds a city transforming and re-inventing itself into what it was always meant to be.And since Marseille has cleaned up its act Samantha wanted to do the same - so her first stop; one of the city's oldest soap-making factories. Then she'll hop on a motor bike for a ride along the coast to seek out the best delicacy in Marseilles. Bouillabaisse! She'll discover quaint neighborhoods where artists continue to craft their creative talents - how about a chocolate maker who infuses her candies with onions? And she'll discover that this city's music and nightlife is as international as its people. Marseille has always been a European gateway for immigrants from around the world, it's this unique atmosphere that makes it a vacation destination rich in culture and excitement
Season 2, Episode 11
Lyon, France
Samantha Brown takes off for the culinary capitol of France - if you're thinking Paris.you're wrong! France's second largest city, Lyon has earned this weighty reputation by being the hub of surrounding regions famous for wine, meat, cheese, and all kinds of fresh produce. So when it comes to food, you would expect people here, like in all of France, to take their food seriously. But Samantha's mission is to find out what is it about Lyon that is unexpected. Sam's first stop takes her behind the facade of buildings in historic Old Town to explore the maze of hidden passageways, courtyards and spiraling staircases.She'll also discover that things aren't always as they seem when she stares up at the Silk Workers Wall - a multi-story mural painted in the tromp-l'oeil style - which means to fool the eye. She'll see why silk became a hot commodity in Lyon by stepping inside a 250 year old silk weaving factory. And she'll take a hand in telling the story of how a little puppet became one of Lyon's biggest celebrities. A two-wheeled tour around town, and sitting down with friends to sample Lyon's version of "diner food" are also on her itinerary. Samantha discovers that Lyon, France is a city at ease with itself, and that allows travelers to relax and savor the unexpected.
Season 2, Episode 12
Geneva, Switzerland
Switzerland - a country known as an outdoor paradise 12 months out of the year - but it also has one very famous city where nearly 70% of its visitors come to work. It's Geneva, Switzerland - a city known for banking and bureaucracy, andnot necessarily as a vacation destination. But Samantha's here to find out why so many people from around the world call this city home! Did you know thatGeneva is home to nearly 250 organizations including the international headquarters of the United Nations and the Red Cross, but it's not a part of the European Union, and it's also a very wealthy city - there are banks everywhere you look. Shopping is never foreign to Samantha and in Geneva the one luxury item to purchase is a Swiss watch, and of course there is a museum for watches too - Patek Phillipe! But Samantha gets off the - . If price tags are too high, you is ahseh to all over the place. -a still has its own currency - the Swiss franc.Samantha discovers that there are a few symbols of this city - one is Lake Geneva, the other is the watch! smbysyIt's also sits along the banks of Lake Geneva, the largest lake in Europe. But, but it's close enough to the French and Swiss Alps that you can skii. liir. Gen - where is that? there's one cityfor For this trip, Samantha irFirTravel expert, Samantha Brown will take us to one of Europe's most cosmopolitan cities. Geneva, Switzerland in this episode of "Passport to Europe". Geneva is an outdoor paradise boasting invigorating views of the crystal blue Lake Geneva and the glorious snow capped mountains. Samantha will find she's on time when shopping for a watch then she won't be late when she goes to the prestigious Patek Phillipe watch museum. She will head to the nearby mountain of Les Diableret for a little skiing, dog sledding and getting acquainted with the international locals. Geneva is extremely international and is home to hundreds of world organizations. Samantha will visit one such organization call CERN where she will take a tour of the facility on a BICYCLE! Geneva has never been known as a place to party but Samantha will try and disprove this misconception buy hanging out at local clubs and then embarks to a Swiss Chalet for a traditional meal of fondue and a little Swiss yodeling. Geneva is welcoming and friendly as most small towns except this town happens to have locals from over a hundred different countries.
Season 2, Episode 13
Milan, Italy
Quick - what's the fashion capital of the world? Some might say Paris, right?Well, you'd be wrong - it's Milan, Italy. But the Milanese would say fashion isn't the only thing going on - this city keeps busy as the financial center of Italy too, and Samantha Brown quickly finds out it's a town with plenty to keep you going. She discovers that Panzarotti's, not pizza, reign supreme in Milan.she learns a little Italian - can you say Gucci, Fendi, Armani, Versace! Samantha steps inside the one store that started it all - Prada! She also gets hands-on in a museum dedicated to Italy's most famous son, Leonardo Da Vinci - an inventor as well as an artist? And she rolls up her sleeves for a lesson in an art form that's still done the old-fashion way - that is the 15th century way. What's become more popular than diner out in Milan? Samantha fills up her plate on the art of the aperitif.
Season 2, Episode 14
Turin, Italy
Samantha Brown takes us to a European city made famous by a car - the FIAT! In February travelers will come to know Turin, Italy as the site of the 2006 Winter Olympics. Turin may just be Italy's most uncelebrated city, often overshadowed by its gritty, industrial reputation, but Samantha discovers it's a city of unquestionable beauty with imperial architecture. Of course being Italian it's got great wine, delicious food and strong coffee, but it also has mummies! And Pharaohs! And those impressive Alps! Not to mention the most important relic in Christendom. Samantha finds Turin, Italy in the midst of a tremendous regeneration - which makes it the perfect place for your next Italian adventure!
Season 2, Episode 15
Venice, Italy (101)
Samantha Brown is going to one of the most romantic cities in the entire world - Venice, Italy! Sam catches a boat ride from the airport and begins her discovery of this classic Italian city. Watch as she makes her own version of Venice's exquisite blown glass, attempts to pilot a gondola, and witness's tourists being attacked by Venice's one true plague. Pigeons! Take a trip with Samantha Brown and discover the insider scoop to this magical city!
Season 2, Episode 16
Venice, Italy (Hidden)
Samantha Brown is on a mission to unmask the 'hidden' side of one of Europe's most visited cities - Venice, Italy! Samantha wanders away from the tourist's traps and captures the true beauty of Venice! She'll tackle the tremendous task of drinking from a wine glass the size of her head and seeks out the historical wonder of Venice's magical mosaic tile. Is Venice sinking? Tune in to see if Samantha finds the answer.
Season 2, Episode 17
Bologna, Italy
When you say Italy what cities quickly come to mind; Rome, Venice, Florence? Samantha Brown is heading to another Italian destination, and this one has the audacity to claim it's the culinary capital of the entire country - can you guess it? It's Bologna, Italy! Samantha searches out whether there's really any bologna in Bologna she learns a few dance moves in a pasta-making class, gets behind the wheel of a 500K sports car, finds the cinematic connection the city has with Charlie Chaplin, raises a toast to Bologna's energetic nightlife, and enjoys a home-cooked meal with new friends. Samantha discovers Bologna is a great place to experience Italy today.
Season 2, Episode 18
Verona, Italy
Everyone knows Verona, Italy as the romantic setting for Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet, but Samantha discovers it's also one of Italy's most "Roman" cities with an ancient coliseum that instead of staging gladiator fights today presents elaborate al fresco productions by the Verona Opera Company. The city is the perfect size for Samantha to explore by bicycle, and she stops long enough for some people watching and cappuccino sipping at a colorfulpiazza. She also tests her taste buds (and her courage) on a local specialty - horse meat, and uncovers a letter-writing club that keeps the spirit of Romeo and Juliet alive today.
Season 2, Episode 19
Valencia, Spain
You've heard of Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville, but what about Valencia?Samantha heads to this Spanish Mediterranean coastal city to see how it's changing its underdog reputation and fast becoming a Cinderella city. Samantha heads out to cruise alongside sailboats practicing for the America's Cup. We'll see if she has the moves it takes for mastering the flamenco, she'll step inside a bullfighting arena for a lesson with the red cape, and she'll share a Sunday afternoon "paella" tradition with a local family. Samantha discovers that Valencia is fast carving out its place as a must-see destination in modern Spain.
Season 2, Episode 20
Mallorca, Spain
Samantha discovers an island destination in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea that few Americans travel too - it's Mallorca, Spain. Whether you're looking for a big city experience with plenty of nightlife or a quiet mountainside village Mallorca has something for everyone. Samantha meets up with a local artist and gets an inside look at the island's music culture, she goes underground for a cave experience like no other - we're talking canoes with live musicians, she'll get a lesson in the island's sandwich culture, and gears up to scale an island cliff with a pro. Samantha lets the secret out about the island of Mallorca!
Season 2, Episode 21
Glasgow, Scotland
Samantha flies into Scotland's capitol - Glasgow, a city once known as anIndustrial leader but today it's cleaned up a "wee bit" to reveal its unique style ofarchitecture, world-class museums and an unpredictable music and art scene. Samantha discovers that Glasgow has become one of the top shopping destinations in the UK. Along the way she'll encounter a man whose art is hanging upside down, she'll meet up with a master kilt maker who helps her dig up her family tartan, and Samantha takes in a night on the town with a few in-the-know locales at a popular music club. It's a world-wind tour of Glasgow Scotland, and Samantha unmasks that the true heart of this big city is in its people.
Season 2, Episode 22
Scottish Highlands
It's the land of castles, kilted athletes, sea monsters, fiddles, folk music and whisky. Samantha touches down in the Highlands of Scotland to experiencea true Scottish vacation. Do you know what a caper is? Well, Samantha rolls up her sleeves up and competes against a champion? She'll sip a wee dram of whisky, fish the famous Loch Ness in search of Nessie, experience the local nightlife at a ceilidh, go in search of a pre-historic beast that roams the countryside, and booksa room at a haunted castle. Plenty of surprises are in store when Samantha lands in the Scottish Highlands.
Season 2, Episode 23
Helsinki, Finland
Have you heard of the city Helsinki? Do you know what country it's in? Samantha touches down in Finland's capitol city with no preconceived perceptions, except big expectations for having fun. Helsinki is the closest point Samantha'sever been to the Artic Circle, and visiting in the summertime means she doesn't need a ski jacket. Samantha hops on a beer tram for a slightly different take on the standard city tour she steps inside a steamy sauna and gets a lesson on social behavior stops by a market for some food facts on the Finns fascination with fish, rye bread and licorice and gives out some savvy sales tips on what to shop for in Helsinki.
Season 2, Episode 24
Stockholm, Sweden
Samantha heads to one of the last regions to lose the ice of the Ice Age the Scandinavian city of Stockholm, Sweden! It's 70 degrees and summer but Samantha finds a different kind of ice - an ice bar! And she learns the meaning of "cheers" Stockholm-style! Samantha covers a lot of ground within the 14 islands that make up the city of Stockholm. She goes hunting for trolls discovers an unexpected musical side to the city unwraps the secret of the Swedish smorgasbord, but will she taste test a little reindeer and horseradish sauce? She'll head underground to see how Stockholm gives commuters a bit more style and she steps inside what might be the biggest hot air balloon in the world for a bird's eye view of the city.
Season 2, Episode 25
Reykjavik, Iceland
Samantha travels with us to a country like no other she has ever traveled to it's a place where the sun sometimes never seems to set where it's chilly most of the year, but the number one leisure activity is outdoor swimming where the land seems to be literally coming apart at the seams where the language is almost unpronounceable and even harder to spell and everybody, even the big wigs, are addressed by their first name it's a land where its people still believe in elves and yet this place is rapidly becoming one of the fastest-growing travel destinations in all of Europe.Welcome to Iceland!
Season 2, Episode 26
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark - a city recently named one of the top ten "dream cities" of the world - Samantha touches down in this Scandinavian capitol to see if it really is a fairy tale destination. She joins in on the party for Copenhagen's midsummer's eve celebration, gets the spin on what's up with all the bicycles, discovers why Copenhagener's are so crazy about their sandwiches, visits a wharf-side hotspot with colorful cafes and a colorful past, gets the inside scope on Danish style, rides one of the world's oldest roller coasters.and searches out whether the Danes really do eat "Danish".
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