Feeling a little stuck at home? Dreaming of far-off lands but can't book a flight just yet? Don't worry, Netflix has got your back! We've rounded up the absolute best travel shows to whisk you away from your couch to anywhere in the world. Get ready for stunning scenery, mouth-watering food, and fascinating people. Let's dive in!
1. Our Planet
Okay, so this one isn't strictly a travel show in the sense of hopping from city to city, but trust us, it's even better. Imagine seeing the most incredible places on Earth, all from your living room. Our Planet takes you from icy Arctic landscapes to lush Amazon rainforests, showing you nature's wonders in breathtaking detail. The cinematography is out of this world! You'll see amazing animals doing their thing, and it's narrated by the legend himself, Sir David Attenborough. It's like a super-fancy nature documentary, but it feels like you're there. Plus, it reminds us how important it is to take care of our planet.
2. Somebody Feed Phil
If you love food and you love laughing, then Phil Rosenthal is your new best friend. In Somebody Feed Phil, Phil travels the globe with an insatiable appetite and a heart full of joy. He dives headfirst into local cultures, trying everything from street food in Bangkok to pasta in Rome. What makes it so special? Phil's genuine enthusiasm is infectious. He's not a fancy critic; he's just a regular guy who loves to eat and connect with people. You'll be craving everything he eats by the end of each episode!
3. Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father
This show is pure, unadulterated fun. Comedian Jack Whitehall drags his rather posh and often bewildered father, Michael Whitehall, on adventures around the world. Think hilarious mishaps, cultural misunderstandings, and a whole lot of banter. They visit places like Thailand, Vietnam, and Australia, and watching Jack try to get his dad to embrace the local way of life is gold. It’s a show about family, culture, and the funny side of travel.
4. Chef's Table
This is for the foodies who appreciate art and innovation. Chef's Table delves into the lives and kitchens of the world's most renowned chefs. Each episode is a cinematic masterpiece, focusing on one culinary genius and their unique approach to food. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at their inspirations, their struggles, and the incredible dishes they create. It's more than just cooking; it's about passion, artistry, and the stories behind the food. You might need to keep a notebook handy for all the gourmet inspiration!
5. Street Food: Latin America
Forget fancy restaurants! This series celebrates the vibrant and delicious world of street food across Latin America. From the bustling markets of Mexico City to the coastal towns of Peru, you'll discover incredible dishes served from humble carts and stalls. It's a celebration of local flavors, family recipes, and the people who keep these culinary traditions alive. The colors, the smells (you can almost smell them!), and the stories are all incredibly captivating. Get ready for some serious food envy.
6. The World's Most Extraordinary Homes
Ever wondered what it would be like to live in a house carved into a cliff face or perched on the side of a mountain? Piers Taylor and Caroline Quentin explore some of the most amazing and unusual homes on the planet. They travel to incredible locations and meet the brave architects and owners who dared to build them. It’s a feast for the eyes, showcasing stunning design and how people adapt to live in the most challenging and beautiful environments. You'll be inspired to rethink what "home" can mean.
7. Dark Tourist
This one is for the adventurous and the curious. Journalist David Farrier visits places that most people avoid. We're talking about nuclear exclusion zones, death-tourism spots, and areas known for their dark and unusual histories. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s incredibly thought-provoking. David’s dry wit and his genuine desire to understand these often-unsettling destinations make it fascinating. It's travel that makes you think about the world in a completely different way.
8. Expedition Happiness
This is a more personal and heartwarming travelogue. A young couple, Selima and Felix, buy an old school bus, convert it into a cozy home on wheels, and embark on an epic road trip across North America. They share their journey, their challenges, and their beautiful moments of connection with nature and each other. It's raw, authentic, and shows the freedom of the open road. If you've ever dreamt of a life less ordinary, this is the show for you.
9. Human Planet
Similar to Our Planet in its breathtaking scope, Human Planet focuses on how humans have adapted to and thrived in some of the most extreme environments on Earth. From the Arctic to the desert, you'll see incredible stories of survival, ingenuity, and cultural diversity. It’s a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and the incredible things people can achieve. The cinematography is stunning, and the stories are truly inspiring.
10. Chasing the Sun
This documentary series explores the profound connection between humans and the sun. It travels to different corners of the globe to investigate how societies have harnessed the sun's power, from ancient civilizations to modern solar energy. It's a fascinating blend of science, history, and culture. You'll learn about everything from how the sun affects our mood to the cutting-edge technology being developed to use its energy. It's an illuminating journey that will make you appreciate our nearest star even more.
So there you have it! Ten incredible shows to fuel your wanderlust without even leaving your sofa. Which one will you watch first? Happy travels!
