Passport to Adventure
A dynamic travel series with a twist - cultural insights and history are subtly intertwined with adventurous activities, allowing viewers to see the world and be inspired by its natural beauty, and the fascinating people that share our planet. Hosts Julie Conover and Mark Jennings travel on foot, bicycle, rafts or canoes, atop horses, camels and elephants, to uncover off-the- beaten path excursions.
Upcoming Broadcasts:
The Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan (#208)
Duration:
28:42 CC TVG
India is a land of contrasts and extremes. The desert state of Rajasthan is located in western India on the Pakistan border. This colorful, exotic region is the home of the "Rajputs", warrior clans who ruled this area for over 1000 years. Julie's journey through Rajasthan begins with a horseback trip in the Aravalli mountains and a ride through the ruins of an ancient hilltop fortress. Rajasthan is also home to some of India's most romantic cities. In Udaipur Julie visits a Maharana in his lavish palace to discuss his role in modern day Indian society. She cycles on country roads to get a glimpse of the rural lifestyle, then spends the night in an luxurious tented camp set in an ancient Mughal garden, where she is entertained by Rajasthani dancers. These nomadic people have performed for the royal families of India for centuries and their traditional dances are as bewitching today as ever.
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The Mystery of the Maya, Guatemala (#209)
Duration:
27:37 CC TVG
The indigenous people of Guatemala have kept their culture alive despite centuries of war and oppression. Tracing the history of the descendants of the Maya takes Mark & Julie to Tikal, where the Mayan culture thrived over a millennium ago, then mysteriously disappeared. They explore the surrounding jungle by day and by night using flashlights and fireflies as guides, and ascend one of Tikal's majestic temples to witness sunrise over the mystical jungle landscape. In the "Altiplano", or high plains region, Mark & Julie descend an active volcano on mountain bikes with some local expats, and meet villagers and school children along the way. The time honored art of treadle loom weaving is demonstrated by a family who creates fabrics for world export. This episode presents a fresh and exciting look at the ancient Mayan culture.
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Innsbruck and the Tirol, Austria (#210)
Duration:
28:09 CC TVG
5000 years ago a lone traveler perished in a sudden storm on the Similaun glacier. In this episode, Mark & Julie trek across the glacier and stand in the very spot where the frozen body of the "Ice Man" was discovered. With archeologists as guides, they uncover significant clues to our Stone Age past. In the Oetz Valley Julie & Mark challenge any fear of heights with a climb along a sheer rock face with a raging waterfall at their side. Next, they join a multinational group of guides to raft the white water of the Inn river. In Innsbruck, they explore the historic city center and take a bone rattling ride on the Olympic bobsled course with the ex-Austrian team captain.
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Guatemala's Dramatic Lake Atitlan Region (#211)
Duration:
28:43 CC TVG
Locals call it one of the seven wonders of the world, surrounded by towering volcanoes, Lake Atitlan provides a stunning backdrop for riding a sailing, horseback and paragliding. Mark and Julie gallop through cloud forests and coffee fields for a misty lunch on top of a volcano, and ride out a sudden storm on the lake in a catamaran. On a trip to the colorful tribal market in "Chichicastenango" Julie learns the significance of the handmade native costumes. This spectacular landscape has attracted an adventurous group of foreigners who make their home in 'Panajachel'. They'll show Mark & Julie their favorite spots and share their insight on the fascinating indigenous culture. Through this interesting group of 'expats' you will experience the lifestyle and culture of central Guatemala.
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The Good Life In Hungary (#212)
Duration:
28:46 CC TVG
Spas, equestrian centers, wineries & the splendors of Budapest make Hungary ideal for 5 star travel on a budget. Thermal waters enjoyed by the Romans and Turks continue to ooze up through the earth in spas all over Hungary. Romans also get credit for bringing the first grape vines to Hungary. Julie & Mark sample the legendary wines of the Tokai region and cycle through vineyards and medieval towns. The early nomads who settled Hungary were famed horsemen. This tradition is carried on in the Great Plain region where costumed 'csikos', or cowboys, perform amazing feats on horseback. For those serious about their riding, there are first rate stables and arenas throughout the country. Mark & Julie get a taste of old European elegance in cosmopolitan Budapest, where an exquisite meal prepared by a Michelin rated chef can still be enjoyed by the frugal traveler!
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A Trip Through American History In Connecticut (#213)
Duration:
28:42 CC TVG
One of the most populated states in the U.S., a bedroom community of NYC, birthplace of the insurance industry, is that Connecticut? Not if you are seeing it with Passport to Adventure! Julie & Mark seek out the real Connecticut - cycling through pristine countryside and meeting locals who have roots generations deep. Wherever you go, American history comes alive in Connecticut. At the Mystic Seaport, our 19th century maritime heritage is re-created in the streets of the village, and the historic ships docked in the harbor. In Hartford, Mark & Julie step into the life of American literary icon, Mark Twain, and in the Quiet Corners they're introduced to little known aspects of the abolition movement. Kayaking in the Long Island Sound, sampling apple cider fresh from an 18th century press, and meeting the pioneers in America's newest wine growing region - that's Connecticut!
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The Magical Country of Wales (#301)
Duration:
26:46 CC Stereo TVG
When legendary crooner Tom Jones pined for "the green, green grass of home" he was reminiscing about the rolling pastures, flower-filled fields and hedge-lined country roads of Wales - ideal for hiking or cycling, then snuggling up to a fire at a cozy B & B. In this episode, hosts Julie Conover and Mark Jennings hike stunning coastline, ride a steam train, learn to pilot a canal boat, and visit a vintner, a cheese maker and a whiskey distillery for a look at traditional Welsh crafts.
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Enchanting, Natural Norway (#302)
Duration:
26:46 CC Stereo TVG
Trains, ferries, and fjords - nature and man coexisting in splendor. From clean, green, cosmopolitan Oslo, to artsy, hip Bergen, Norway's cities blend seamlessly with its pristine countryside. In Oslo, hosts Julie Conover and Mark Jennings tour the city on bicycles and ferries before embarking on one of the world's most spectacular train adventures. They explore the majestic fjord in kayaks and hike to take in breathtaking views. In Bergen, they wander narrow alleys and stroll the historic wharf and fish market.
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Baja California's Best Kept Secret! (#303)
Duration:
26:46 CC Stereo TVG
No timeshare hawkers, high rises or massive resorts, just quiet coves and pristine islands for kayaking, enchanting desert for mountain biking, the original California missions and an unspoiled Mexican town. Hosts Julie Conover and Mark Jennings kayak the Sea of Cortez, ride mules through the hinterland, and visit "ranchos" owned for generations by the same families, getting intimately acquainted with the landscape, the history and the people of Baja California.
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Guam, Where East Meets West (#304)
Duration:
26:46 CC Stereo TVG
Turquoise waters, lush jungles, cosmopolitan shopping and a plethora of historical sites await travelers to Guam. The island is an endearing mix of 1960s America, Asia and exotic Pacific Island. Hosts Julie Conover and Mark Jennings cha-cha their way through the weekly fiesta, swim in waterfalls, snorkel the coral reef and meet a refreshing group of teenage dancers passionate about preserving their colorful heritage.
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Tbilisi & the Caucasus Mountains, Republic of Georgia (#101)
Duration:
27:27 CC TVG
Hosts Julie Conover & Mark Jennings begin their journey in Vienna, Austria, an elegant, cosmopolitan city, and the gateway to the new frontiers of Eastern Europe. After an adventure at the airport, they finally arrive in Georgia's capital, the walled city of Tbilisi, where exotic cultures and ancient religions have coexisted for centuries. The Georgian people have their own language and alphabet, and have kept their culture intact through their continuing struggle for independence and prosperity. Once a part of the silk route, the Georgian military highway climbs high into the Caucasus Mountains, the range that divides Europe and Asia. After following the winding road on a trip through time, Mark & Julie arrive at a modern resort where old soviet helicopters take adventurers to ski this remote, untouched terrain.
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Exploring Rural China and the Great Wall (#102)
Duration:
27:44 CC TVG
In China's capital, Mark Jennings and Julie Conover hop on a pedicab to take a look at life in the old section of the city. Just outside Beijing, the countries most enduring symbol, The Great Wall tumbles over the horizon. The towering pinnacles of Southern China have inspired artists for centuries and the rhythm of life on the Li River is slow and melodic - water buffalo linger in a stream, while families work in verdant rice fields. The peaks of the region hide numerous caves, some that have been turned into Disneyland-like attractions, while others offer pristine views of the patchwork countryside. In the backpacker's mecca of Yangshou, Mark & Julie meet fishermen with an ingenious method of doing their job.
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Bavarian Life In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany (#103)
Duration:
27:09 CC TVG
The snowcapped Bavarian Alps are the highest mountains in Germany, a perfect backdrop for skiing adventures and cultural discoveries. In the Olympic village of Garmisch, Julie Conover & Mark Jennings visit with Gerhardt Ester, a local character who's murals adorn the town's historic buildings. Nearby, in Mittenwald, some of the world's most famous violins were crafted three centuries ago. Today, the narrow streets of this quaint village are home to workshops where intricately carved instruments are still produced. On the slopes of the Zugspitze, Mark & Julie meet the competitors on the European Carving Tour, a exciting new type of ski racing .
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The Pyrenees Mountains, Spain and France (#104)
Duration:
27:25 CC TVG
These mountains are home to the Basque, a people whose exact origins are still being debated. Hosts Mark Jennings & Julie Conover explore enchanting villages and chat with locals to gain a little insight into this mysterious culture. The rivers of the region provide ample entertainment for adventure seekers. Julie & Mark go rafting, kayaking, and canyoning, as well as try a new sport called " hydrospeed", where the body becomes a projectile through the rapids! If that's not enough, they cycle the narrow mountain passes that make up the most demanding leg of the Tour de France, and, explore stalagmite filled caves and medieval villages.
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Lake Geneva and Verbier, Switzerland (#105)
Duration:
27:42 CC TVG
A peek behind the walls of historic Chateau Chillon, on the shores of Lake Geneva, provides an introduction to the magnificent Swiss Alps region. Just fifty years ago, Verbier was a tiny mountain hamlet with only 27 residents, today it's peaks attract the creme de la creme of extreme sports enthusiasts and filmmakers. Adventure sports photographer Hank DeVre shares his passion for the outdoors and joins hosts Julie Conover & Mark Jennings to explore the off piste terrain that has made Verbier famous. Back at Lake Geneva, Mark & Julie cycle along the picturesque shore, golf in historic Evian, and learn about the wines of the Jura Mountains from a local vintner.
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Exotic Northern Thailand (#106)
Duration:
27:14 CC TVG
Thailand's cultural and geographic diversity has drawn adventure travelers for decades and the country's tourism infrastructure makes it an ideal "intro to Asia" destination. In the hills of Northern Thailand, hosts Mark Jennings & Julie Conover trek through the jungles on foot and on elephant back to meet the colorful ethnic tribes. After spending the night as house guests of the village "headman" they set out on bamboo rafts for a true river adventure. In Chiang Mai, Julie gets a lesson in Thai cooking, and Mark comes upon locals playing a bizarre ball game!
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Historic Stockholm and Heliskiing, Sweden (#107)
Duration:
27:02 CC TVG
Stockholm, Sweden's capital city, sits in an archipelago made up of thousands of islands. Before heading to the mountains, hosts Mark Jennings & Julie Conover explore the narrow, cobbled streets of the Old Town and sample traditional cuisine. The Vasa Museum is home to a sixteenth century warship that capsized on her maiden voyage and was exhumed from Stockholm's bay perfectly preserved. She now shares this fascinating piece of history with her guests. As the journey turns north, Mark and Julie experience Sweden's fairytale countryside on the backs of Icelandic horses and visit Scandinavia's largest winter resort for an introduction to telemark skiing. A dazzling heliski adventure concludes this tour through the land of the midnight sun.
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Big Sky Country, Montana (#108)
Duration:
27:23 CC TVG
The southern part of Montana is dominated by a rugged range that creates a paradise for outdoor and Old West enthusiasts. Charles Kurault once described the Beartooth Highway as "the most scenic drive in America." A float trip on a "blue ribbon" trout stream explains why the state attracts fly fishermen from around the globe. In the historic town of Red Lodge, characters like Jeremiah Johnson and Buffalo Bill have not disappeared into the past. Surrounded by buckskin clad participants, Julie and Mark become a part of Montana's colorful history, at the "Mountain Man Rendezvous", a celebration of the fur trading era in the American west.
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Exploring Rugged Northern Corsica, France (#109)
Duration:
27:15 CC TVG
This mysterious island has fascinated sailors and been a target for invaders since the days of the ancient Greeks. In secluded hill towns, hosts Julie Conover & Mark Jennings meet the fiercely independent people who have fought to maintain their proud culture. These passionate, Corsican guides take Mark & Julie bareback, thundering across coastal terrain, rappelling down waterfalls and soaring on the wings of a paraglider high above the Mediterranean Sea. A citadel built on a windswept rock in the thirteenth century stands guard over yachts from all over the world in the seaport of Calvi. Mark & Julie stroll the lively streets of the city with a charming local guide who shares her insights on the island and it's people.
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Undiscovered Nepal (#110)
Duration:
27:21 CC TVG
In the southwestern region of Nepal there are no high mountain peaks to scale, just pristine rural villages and tribal cultures living undisturbed by tourism. This is the "not so famous" side of Nepal. The Bardia Reserve is one of the last remaining habitats for the nearly extinct Bengal Tiger. Host Julie Conover boards an elephant to search for the elusive cats and spends the night at the rustic Tiger Tops tented camp overlooking the river where she rafts the next morning. In the country's capital, Kathmandu, Hindu and Buddhist temples are still the center of life. Cycling through stunning rural scenery and the ancient town squares of the Kathmandu Valley, reveals more on the intriguing culture that makes Nepal a true adventure travel destination.
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Off The Beaten Path in the Canary Islands, Spain (#111)
Duration:
27:25 CC TVG
The perfect climate of the Canary Islands has made it a popular destination for European sun worshipers, but getting away from the tourist spots uncovers a fascinating side of these diverse islands. There is no limit to the adventure sport activities to be found here, from miles of hiking on the 13,000 foot Teide volcano, to scuba diving and snorkeling in the clear blue waters of El Hierro. Hosts Mark Jennings & Julie Conover enjoy a sunset take off with local paragliders, catch a wave at a local surfing competition and get a taste of indigenous culture in a night of folkloric song and dance.
Channels and Airdates:
Mon, Dec 21, 2009 -- 12:30 am email reminder
Mon, Dec 21, 2009 -- 10:00 am email reminder
Sun, Dec 27, 2009 -- 12:30 am email reminder
Discovering The "Sud Tirol", Italy (#112)
Duration:
27:53 CC TVG
The limestone peaks of the Dolomite mountains make for some of the most dramatic ski terrain in all of Europe. Hosts Mark Jennings & Julie Conover enjoy the slopes of the Sella Ronda, then board a helicopter to challenge themselves on one of the area's steepest chutes. Many of the local families have lived in the Sud Tirol for generations and cherish their way of life in these once remote mountain villages. Julie & Mark take a look at the time honored craft of wood carving and spend an afternoon with a local man who offers a touchingly personal perspective of World War One and the transition from Austrian to Italian rule. This journey through Northern Italy concludes with a visit to cosmopolitan Florence, the renaissance capital of the country.
Channels and Airdates:
Tue, Dec 22, 2009 -- 12:30 am email reminder
Tue, Dec 22, 2009 -- 10:00 am email reminder
Sat, Dec 26, 2009 -- 12:30 am email reminder
The "Cote D'azur", France (#113)
Duration:
28:19 CC TVG
Hosts Julie Conover & Mark Jennings get a different perspective on the land of ritz and glitz from a hangglider, high in the mountains above Antibes; a 4x4 trip through the Maritime Alps and a parasailing ride over the glamorous Riviera.. To experience the authentic culture of the region, Mark & Julie hang out with locals in the Moorish walled city of Ramatuelle and the ranches of the Camargue, famous for their white horses. From the seaport of Cassis, they board a ferry to tour the coastline where they discover rock climbers clinging to the walls of the calanques (fjords), and visit the picturesque seaport of Villefranche.
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A Journey Down The Yangtze River, China (#114)
Duration:
27:14 CC TVG
A Yangtze cruise passes through the magnificent Three Gorges section where the construction of the world's largest dam will forever change this mighty river. Hosts Mark Jennings & Julie Conover experience a traditional way of life on pea pod boats with trackers, wiry guides who navigate the tributaries of the Yangtze in long wooden boats, fending off the cliffs with bamboo poles. In the City of the Ghosts, statues of demonic giants tower over the town of Fengdu waiting for the day when the waters of the Yangtze will wash over their feet. In the delta region, Mark & Julie join the half million locals who get around on bikes to tour the countryside, and explore quaint Suzhou, where intricate silk embroidery is the pride of the city. Bustling Shanghai provides a first hand look at modern China as it collides with it's own ancient culture.
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Spain's Basque Country & the Festival of San Fermin (#115)
Duration:
27:19 CC TVG
This journey through the Basque Country begins in the French coastal resort of Biarritz. From here, hosts Julie Conover & Mark Jennings visit the charming fishing village of St. Jean de Luz and cycle through the foothills of the Pyrenees to reach Pamplona, where they'll participate in the world famous Festival of San Fermin. Crazy or not, each year thousands of locals and visitors hit the streets for the traditional "running of the bulls". The frenetic activity continues in the streets till dawn, with all ages participating in the dancing, partying and parades. The action culminates in the bull ring; is it an elegant spectacle or a cruel sport? We'll let you decide.
Channels and Airdates:
Sailing The Grenadine Islands, Caribbean Sea (#116)
Duration:
28:11 CC TVG
On a sleek, 64 foot sloop hosts Mark Jennings & Julie Conover get a feel for life on the open sea and a taste of the exotic West Indies. On the island of St. Lucia, one of the Caribbean's most spectacular hideaways lies nestled in the jungle covered hillside of the island's trademark pitons. These striking peaks tower over a smoldering caldera, where mineral rich water boils to the earths surface. After a short flight south, Mark & Julie begin their windward adventure, sailing north to idyllic snorkeling and diving in the Tobago Keys then on to the mist shrouded rim of an active volcano on Saint Vincent.. On the island of Mustique, they ride horses on the beach before setting sail for a historic whaling port on the island of Bequai. From learning to handle the helm and sails to enjoying the nightly sunset spectacle, Mark & Julie uncover the mystique that surrounds the life of those adventurous few who see the world from their floating home.
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Cortina, Courmayeur and the Dolomite Mountains, Italy (#117)
Duration:
27:43 CC Stereo TVG
Springtime is ideal for biking and skiing in this breathtaking region of the Alps. Hosts Julie Conover & Mark Jennings cycle through a village where artists have painted the history of the people on the ancient buildings and explore tunnels used by the Italian Army during World War I high above Cortina. In Courmayeur, they board a helicopter to ski the distant peaks and meet the brave alpine guides who dedicate their lives to protecting skiers and hikers from the dangers of the Alps. Strolling the cobbled streets of the villages and sampling culinary specialties with the locals rounds out this Alpine adventure in Italy.
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Magical Southern Corsica, France (#118)
Duration:
27:45 CC TVG
Southern Corsica is famous for it's azure waters, white sandy beaches and the ancient villages built into it's limestone cliffs. Hosts Mark Jennings & Julie Conover set out to explore the modern marinas and 16th century citadels that make up these historic seaports. They take to the seas with a local expat to experience the carefree life at the helm and tour the mysterious caves carved out of the shoreline millions of years ago. The island's harrowing mountain roads are a challenge for drivers, but still attract bicycle tourists from all over the world. Julie teams up with the locals to learn the intricacies of Boules, while Mark sets out to demonstrate his mastery of the catamaran.
Channels and Airdates:
Trekking In Nepal (#119)
Duration:
27:29 CC TVG
Kathmandu is probably the world's first real adventure travel destination. It has changed considerably since the 1950's, (as every place does when tourism thrives), but in many ways, it hasn't changed at all. Nepal offers a wealth of exotic culture, spectacular landscapes, and miles of terrain for trekking. Starting out in the vibrant capital of Kathmandu, host Julie Conover takes a breathtaking flight over Mt. Everest, then heads to Pokhara, to explore this romantic lakeside village and begin a trek into the foothills of the Annapurna range.






