12 Rainy Day TV Series for Travelers When the sky turns grey and the rain keeps you indoors, the wanderlust doesn’t have to fade. Instead of scrolling through old travel photos, you can transport yourself to breathtaking locations through the screen. Rainy days are perfect for diving into television series that act as virtual vacations, showcasing stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and armchair adventures. From quiet, scenic countryside dramas to fast-paced travelogues, here are twelve TV series that will satisfy your craving for exploration without you needing to leave your couch. Epic Journeys and Cultural Immersion
For those who crave authentic, immersive travel, Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown offers an unparalleled look into the world’s cultures. Bourdain travels beyond the typical tourist spots, connecting with locals through food and conversation in locations ranging from Congo to Myanmar. His raw and honest storytelling makes you feel as though you are sitting right across from him. Similarly, Long Way Round features Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman as they motorcycle around the world. It’s an adrenaline-fueled adventure that covers diverse terrain and showcases the grit required for true exploration.
If you prefer a mix of history, food, and stunning visuals, Phil Rosenthal’s Somebody Feed Phil is a perfect choice. Phil’s infectious enthusiasm as he explores cities like Lisbon, Bangkok, and Mexico City brings warmth to a gloomy day. For a more intense culinary journey, The Chef’s Table showcases the world’s most renowned chefs, set against the backdrop of their unique, often remote, environments, offering a visual feast for the eyes. Charming Destinations and Escapism
Sometimes you just want to get lost in a beautifully filmed location. The Durrells in Corfu is a delightful series based on a true story, featuring the stunning scenery of the Greek island of Corfu in the 1930s. It is pure escapism, filled with sunshine, charming locals, and incredible seaside vistas. For fans of European countryside charm, All Creatures Great and Small offers a breathtaking glimpse into the Yorkshire Dales. The rolling green hills and quaint village life are enough to make anyone want to book a trip to northern England.
For a dose of mystery mixed with stunning scenery, Shetland takes you to the remote Scottish islands. The dramatic, moody landscapes of Shetland perfectly match the rainy day vibe while offering a glimpse into a rugged, beautiful corner of the UK. Similarly, Lupin offers a fast-paced thriller set against the backdrop of Paris, allowing you to experience the city’s landmarks and streets in a completely new, exciting way. Culinary and Adventurous Escapes
Travel is often about experiencing different cultures, and nothing does this better than food. The Great British Baking Show, while not a traditional travel show, is filmed in a stunning tent in the English countryside, offering a calm, scenic, and charming British experience. Its leisurely pace is perfect for a quiet afternoon. For those who want more action, Expedition Unknown with Josh Gates takes viewers on archaeological adventures across the globe, exploring mysteries in locations like Egypt, Peru, and beyond.
Another excellent choice for food-focused travel is Ugly Delicious, where chef David Chang explores the cultural history and evolution of various dishes, traveling to cities like Tokyo, Copenhagen, and Houston. It’s a fast-paced, insightful look at global food culture. Finally, for a deep dive into incredible landscapes without leaving home, Planet Earth II offers, arguably, the best travel photography on television, taking viewers from the highest mountains to the deepest oceans, reminding us of the immense beauty of the natural world.
Rainy days offer the perfect opportunity to indulge in stories that transport us to different corners of the planet. Whether it’s the sunny shores of Greece, the rugged highlands of Scotland, or the bustling streets of Tokyo, these television series provide a much-needed escape. By exploring the world through these, you can feed your wanderlust and plan future trips, all while staying dry and comfortable, turning a dreary day into a window-to-the-world adventure.
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