Europe
Welcome to my Europe resource section dedicated to helping you delve deeper into your upcoming destination!
Here, I recommend a variety of books, shows, and podcasts tailored to teenagers and adults, offering insights and knowledge that will enrich your travel experience.
So get ready to immerse yourself in the culture, history, and local delights of your destination before you even step foot on the plane!
Here, I recommend a variety of books, shows, and podcasts tailored to teenagers and adults, offering insights and knowledge that will enrich your travel experience.
So get ready to immerse yourself in the culture, history, and local delights of your destination before you even step foot on the plane!
British Isles
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England
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Wales
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Scotland
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Ireland
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Read"Notes from a Small Island" by Bill Bryson
A travel memoir that offers a humorous and insightful perspective on the quirks and charms of Britain. His keen observations and vivid storytelling make this book a great choice for anyone interested in British culture and travel. Oh, and be prepared to laugh out loud! "The Book Lovers Bucket List: A tour of Great British Literature" by Caroline Taggart Maybe this is a bit of a cop out, instead of choosing 1 or 2 English classics I have opted for a book that instead explores over100 literary sites and landscapes. Through vivid descriptions and beautiful colour photographs and illustrations sourced from the British Library collections, you'll be guided around the UK and perhaps inspired to read the source material! "English Journey" by J.B.Priestley The subtitle of this book is "Being a Rambling but Truthful Account of What One Man Saw and Heard and Felt and Thought During a Journey Through England During the Autumn of the Year 1933" , which pretty much sums it up! According to radio and tv presenter Stuart Maconie this is "The finest book ever written about England and the English"; it certainly is well written, insightful and worth a read! |
Watch"Gavin and Stacey." TV series
A British sitcom that follows the long-distance relationship of Gavin from Billericay, Essex and Stacey from Barry, Wales. Endearing, hilarious and a British institution. 3 series and 2 Christmas specials of pure gold "The Great British Bake off" TV series The original TV baking competition now in it's 14th series. Yes, there really is no prize for the winner other than a cake stand and the honour! Gentle television with irreverent humour. "The Inbetweeners" TV series A coming of age sitcom that follows a group of middle-class adolescent boys through the trials and tribulations of their Sixth Form years. Not for the prudish! Honourable Mentions: All the Harry Potter books and films Wolf Hall - novel by Hilary Mantel and tv adaptation A History of Britain - Simon Schama (TV) |
Listen"The History of England" by David Crowther
An extensive catalogue of podcasts beginning with the end of Roman Britain. For the history lover! "Pod save the UK" hosted by Nish Kumar and Coco Khan. A weekly dose of political news, big ideas and a shot of inspiration. Each week the hosts are joined by politicians, experts, and famous friends to unpick the latest news, look for solutions, and inspire action. "Irreplaceable: A history of England in 100 places" produced by Historic Britain Through ten different categories, they have compiled a list of 100 historic places that have helped to make England the country it is today. This podcast series explores each of the 100 places in detail and provides a unique history of England told by the people that live there. You can dip into the areas that interest you and there is even a book to accompany the series. Honourable mention: "No such thing as a Fish" |
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Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark.
A Short History of the Irish Potato Famine.
Between 1845 and 1852, Ireland suffered an appalling famine after the repeated failure of the potato crop, its national staple. But though caused by a natural blight, a combination of ancient prejudices, simmering tensions and political short-termism turned a national emergency into a disaster for the ages. So why did the authorities in Westminster seem to wash their hands of Ireland during its time of need? How did the Irish people respond to their adversity? And how did this story of betrayal and exploitation shape Ireland’s future, right down to the present day?
A Short History of St Patrick.
Though St Patrick is honoured by millions of revellers worldwide every year, few know more about him than the popular myths concerning shamrocks and snakes and who knew he was actually English!
The real story of St Patrick reads like an adventure story, involving kidnapping, enslavement, and daring escapes. But how did his commitment to spreading the word of God lead him to become the embodiment of all things Irish?
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark.
A Short History of the Irish Potato Famine.
Between 1845 and 1852, Ireland suffered an appalling famine after the repeated failure of the potato crop, its national staple. But though caused by a natural blight, a combination of ancient prejudices, simmering tensions and political short-termism turned a national emergency into a disaster for the ages. So why did the authorities in Westminster seem to wash their hands of Ireland during its time of need? How did the Irish people respond to their adversity? And how did this story of betrayal and exploitation shape Ireland’s future, right down to the present day?
A Short History of St Patrick.
Though St Patrick is honoured by millions of revellers worldwide every year, few know more about him than the popular myths concerning shamrocks and snakes and who knew he was actually English!
The real story of St Patrick reads like an adventure story, involving kidnapping, enslavement, and daring escapes. But how did his commitment to spreading the word of God lead him to become the embodiment of all things Irish?
Northern Europe
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Denmark
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Sweden
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Norway
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Finland
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Iceland
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A year of living Danishly by Helen Russell
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Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. A Short History Of the Vikings Viking exploration changed the course of history in the northern hemisphere. As raiders and pirates, they dominated the seas of northern Europe for centuries. Their fearless and brutal reputations struck fear into hearts from Constantinople to Canada, while their folklore and mythology continues to inspire to this day. But who were the mortal men and women behind the immortal legends of the Norsemen? |
southern europe
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Portugal
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Spain
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Italy
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Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes (1996)
Join Mayes on her journey of restoration, Italian cuisine, and the beauty of countryside life as she rediscovers herself amidst the rolling hills of Tuscany. One of the first books about escaping to the country, it inspired a whole generation to dream about a different life and probably single handedly is responsible for the popularity of Tuscany! I thoroughly enjoyed it and yes, Tuscany is as lovely as she describes! My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante The first book in a four volume series, known as The Neapolitan Novels, begins in the 1950s in a neighbourhood on the outskirts of Naples. This first novel introduces two friends when they meet as 10 year-olds and follows them through their school days and adolescence. The series spans almost 60 years of their friendship and the books are considered literary classics by many. Four Seasons in Rome: On Twins, Insomnia, and the biggest funeral in the History of the World by Anthony Doerr (2008) This book is all about Doerr's exploration of the eternal city. He delves into the works of Rome's literary giants, attends significant events like the vigil of Pope John Paul II, and embraces the local community, all whilst painting a vivid picture of his experiences amidst the ancient charm of Rome. |
The Talented Mr. Ripley
Based on the book of the same name by Patricia Highsmith and filmed across Italy. 2 versions that are definitely worth watching: 1. The 1999 film, directed by Anthony Minghella and starring Matt Damon 2. 2024 Netflix version (Ripley) starring Andrew Scott Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy (available on various streaming services) Tucci travels across Italy tasting the flavours of the land and the sea, discovering the history, secrets, and delights of the country's regional cuisines. Every episode focuses on a particular region and is a treat to watch! Francesco's Italy: Top to Toe Follow the Italian architect, author, historian, film maker and television presenter Francesco da Mosta as he explores the treasures of his homeland. His energy and enthusiasm is matched by the quality of this documentary. (He also made a series on his hometown Venice and one on his journey by boat from Venice to Istanbul). Buy this as a DVD or search on YouTube to watch it. |
Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. They have a lots of options for Italy, suitable for teenagers and adults, so download, listen and enjoy! A Short History of the Gladiators. We take a trip back in time to Ancient Rome, to discover the bizarre and barbaric world of the gladiators. But who were these mysterious warriors? And how much truth lies behind the legends? Take your seat in the Roman Colosseum, the games are about to begin. A Short History of Pompeii and the Vesuvius Eruption. What happens when a volcano erupts just six miles from a bustling city? In 79 AD Mount Vesuvius is regarded as a source of bounty by those who live in its shadow. But one of history’s most infamous natural disasters soon unfolds. How did the lucky ones make their escape? And how did this Roman settlement become such an extraordinary archaeological site? A Short History of the Roman Republic. March 15th, 44 BC. Despite ill omens, Julius Caesar approaches the Theatre of Pompey. But the men inside have sworn an oath. To save the Republic from the hands of this self-styled ‘perpetual dictator', Caesar must die. But where did the Republic start? How did it transform Rome from a small town into a superpower? And what made its government, so determinedly against autocracy, pass the tipping point into a dictatorship? A Short History of the Renaissance. The Renaissance of the 15th and 16th centuries was a time of rediscovery. With Florence as its epicentre, it saw a revival of the art, culture and philosophy of ancient Greek and Rome, triggering huge shifts in creativity and thought. But what prompted such a hugely influential movement? Who drove its development, and how did its ideas spread with such unprecedented speed? And, if it weren’t for the great thinkers, artists and inventors of the Renaissance, would we still be living in the Dark Ages? A Short History Of The Colosseum. Voted one of the seven modern wonders of the world, Rome’s Colosseum is an instantly recognizable building. Constructed by Emperor Flavian in the first century AD as a gift to his people, and still standing almost two millennia later, it has a rich and fascinating history. Films such as Gladiator and Spartacus popularize its reputation as home to brutal gladiator battles, but what is the real story behind the Colosseum? How did one emperor’s dream become a reality? Why was the arena abandoned for centuries? And what makes it so iconic in the 21st Century? A Short History Of Michelangelo Michelangelo was one of the greatest artists of his time, with works such as the Sistine Chapel and his sculpture of David, earning him an enduring place in history. Amid the complex Italian politics of his time, Michelangelo navigated powerful dynasties, religious upheavals, and professional rivalries to ensure art was always the centre of his life. But what drove him to keep producing outrageously brilliant work? How did his relationship with superstar contemporaries like da Vinci and Raphael influence him? And what was the personal cost of his dedication to art? |
South eastern europe
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Croatia
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Albania
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Turkiye
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Greece
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Slovenia
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Read"Minarets in the Mountains" by Tharik Hussain.
A journey through the western Balkans, home to the largest indigenous population of muslims in Europe. "Free" by Lea Ypi A portrait of growing up in communist Albania. Well written and fascinating. |
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ReadThe Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak.
Shafak's second novel in English explores the intertwined lives of Asya, a young woman in Istanbul, and Armanoush, an Armenian girl seeking her identity, as they uncover a family secret linking them to the historical events of the Armenian Genocide. The novel delves into themes of identity, family, and the legacy of past tragedies with a cast of interesting female characters. A slow burn of a read, but I enjoyed the insight into life in Istanbul. Birds Without Wings by Louis de Bernieres This excellent novel delves into the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the emergence of the modern Turkish republic, weaving together the stories of various characters from the fictional town of Eskibahçe (meaning Garden of Eden) in southwest Turkey, alongside an exploration of the life of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the first leader of modern Turkey. Midnight at the Pera Palace: The Birth of Modern Istanbul by Charles King. This book delves into the inception of modern Turkey by weaving a narrative around the Pera Palace Hotel in Istanbul. It brings to life this fascinating era through the perspectives of individual characters and their stories. A must-read for history enthusiasts. Istanbul: A Tale of Three Cities by Bettany HughesFor much of its history it was known simply as The City, but, as Bettany Hughes reveals, Istanbul is not just a city, but a story. |
WatchMidnight at the Pera Palace - Netflix, 2022
Centered around the real-life Pera Palace Hotel, the series was inspired by the 2014 historical non-fiction book Midnight at the Pera Palace: The Birth of Modern Istanbul by Charles King. It's light entertainment, at times a bit cheesy, but gets better the more episodes you watch. It touches on the life and times of Ataturk and the birth of modern day Turkiye, an easy watch. The Gift - Netflix, 2019 In "The Gift," Atiye, a painter living in Istanbul with her partner Ozan, has her life changed when archaeologists uncover the oldest temple at Gobeklitepe, revealing a symbol that sets her on a journey of self-discovery. The series takes viewers on a dark and captivating exploration across Turkiye. Gripping, well acted and binge worthy. I highly recommend watching this even if you aren't planning a trip to Turkiye! Turkey with Simon Reeve. BBC, 2017. In this documentary, Simon Reeve explores the diverse landscapes and culture of Turkiye, from the bustling city of Istanbul to the serene Aegean coast and the conflict-ridden Syrian border. He crosses the Taurus Mountains, visits the Black Sea Coast, and immerses himself in Ankara to uncover the essence of Turkiye. Reeve delves deeper than traditional travel documentaries by bringing attention to Turkiye's environmental, political, and social challenges. While the content may not always be easy to watch, it offers a crucial perspective on this intriguing country. The Hidden Gems of Turkey - National Geographic, 2020 3 episodes that explore the country from East to West, exploring the ancient land and modern nation ISTANBUL A present from the past - Pooja & Shravan Travel Films. Pooja & Shravan's travel documentary beautifully captures Istanbul's allure and historical richness. With a well-produced, charmingly presented and thoughtfully narrated content it presents the city in a refreshingly natural style, offering a glimpse into its beauty and fascinating history. Kedi (2016 documentary film) "Kedi" is a film that captures the lives of Istanbul's street cats, depicting their interactions with the city's residents and showcasing the unique bond between the felines and the people who care for them. |
ListenShort History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser that always hit the mark. A Short History of the Ottoman Empire. For over six hundred years the Ottoman Empire ruled swathes of the Middle East, North Africa, and Southern Europe. As an Islamic superpower centred on what is now Turkey, theirs is a story of surprising alliances and enemies, trade, war and progress. But who were its leaders? How did it become so powerful? And after its eventual collapse, what legacy did it leave behind? Turkey Travel by "World Through She" Travel podcast Turkey combines the history of Europe and traditions of Asia creating a unique culture, history, and architecture. Listen along as 3 Persian- American friends reminisce about a recent trip to Istanbul and Cappadocia. They reflect on their experiences and give tips from their adventure. Istanbul in the Ottoman Golden Age - You're Dead to Me , BBC Radio 4 podcast. Greg Jenner, Prof Ebru Boyar, and guest Sue Perkins journey 500 years back to explore the Ottoman Empire. Delving into Istanbul's cultural diversity, they discuss topics from law and fashion to royal dynamics. Discover why closeness to the throne was crucial for a sultan's son, uncover unexpected pastimes of Ottoman soldiers and join them at the Grand Circumcision Festival. |
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Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. A Short History of the Golden Age of Athens. While the Roman Republic was still in its infancy, the Greek city-state of Athens rose from the ruins of war with the Persians to become the most beautiful and powerful in the region. During this Golden Age, many Athenian citizens enjoyed unprecedented freedoms in the world’s first democracy. Architects and engineers designed buildings of unparalleled sophistication, while writers, philosophers and scientists created works that still resonate today. And after shining so brightly, Athens’ rapid decline is a lesson in how great civilisations rise and fall. A Short History of the Spartans. In 480 BC, the Spartans secured their place in history when 300 of their soldiers fought to the death against the mighty Persian army at Thermopylae. Their reputation for brutal decisiveness and simple living have been admired for thousands of years. But what about the darker side of Spartan ideology, a society that culled weak babies, forced children to fight, and enslaved its neighbours? Was Sparta really a utopia? Or was Aristotle right when he said that Spartans simply made men into machines? |
western europe
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France
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Germany
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Netherlands
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Austria
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Switzerland
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A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle (1989)
Mayle shares his experience of fulfilling a lifelong dream by settling into a 200-year-old stone farmhouse in the secluded Lubéron countryside with his wife and two dogs. From enduring the frosty mistral winds of January to unraveling the mysteries of local goat racing and savoring the exquisite regional cuisine, A Year in Provence immerses you in the rustic delights of Provençal living. An easy, fun read that definitely makes me dream of warm summers and cold Rosé! 1000 Years of Annoying the French by Stephen Clarke (2015) Ten centuries' worth of French historical 'facts' bite the dust as Stephen Clarke looks at what has really been going on since 1066. A light hearted look at French history, from the perspective of an Englishman! |
Le Placard, movie 2001.
French comedy film written and directed by Francis Veber (who also directed La Cage Aux Follies) about a man who pretends to be homosexual to keep his job, with absurd and unexpected consequences. Well acted and very funny (even when you have to watch it with subtitles) Dangerous Liaisons, movie 1988 Set in pre-revolution France, a time of legendary decadence. A tale of innocence, desire and sexual gamesmanship with an exceptional cast and wonderful costumes. Call my Agent, Netflix 2015 Emmy award winning comedy set in a top Paris talent show. Features cameo appearances by french celebrities. |
Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. The French Revolution During the late 18th Century, a series of political, social, cultural, and economic issues reached breaking point, exploding in what is now known as the French Revolution. This unprecedented event affected not just France, but the rest of the world - reinventing centuries-old approaches to society, and introducing Europe to brand new ideas of liberty, equality, and fraternity. But how did France reach the tipping point that triggered the Revolution? Is it the most important event in Western history? And how did a movement founded on such noble principles, descend into one of the bloodiest periods in history? |
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Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. A Short History of the Berlin Wall. On the border between the Western world and the Soviet Union, the Berlin Wall was a symbol of the Cold War. Starting out as a simple barbed wire fence, it would grow in scale and complexity to become a 27-mile concrete edifice, incorporating watchtowers, trenches, electric fences, and landmines. But what was its purpose? How did it impact the people whose city it divided? And what did it take, in the end, to bring it down? |
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"The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank
Read the book before you visit the museum! Why the Dutch are different by Ben Coates Written by a Londoner who now lives in the Netherlands. In this book he explores the essence of his adopted country, delving deeper than the typical tourist spots and stereotypes to uncover the unique characteristics that define the Dutch, what distinguishes Holland from the Netherlands, and why they love the colour orange! |
Girl with a Pearl Earring, movie 2003
Based on the novel by Tracy Chevalier and starring Scarlet Johansson and Colin Firth; a portrait of Vermeer and his relationship with his maid. Oceans Twelve, movie 2004. Heist movie that is filmed throughout Amsterdam's Jordaan Neighbourhood. |
Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. Vincent van Gogh Vincent van Gogh was one of the most important and influential figures in the history of art. Though he created thousands of drawings and paintings, his was a life of commercial failure, instability and unhappiness. But who was Van Gogh before he discovered his passion for art? What caused him so much suffering? And who were the people who supported him right up to his tragic death at the age of just 37? |
EASTERN
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