Burt Wolf: Travels and Traditions

The Basque country of northeast Spain has the oldest culture in Europe and they do all they can to keep their traditions alive. In Bilbao visit the museum that revitalized the city. Check out the fastest ball game in the world in San Sebastian and experience some of their unique foods.

The capital city of Willemstad is like a mini-Amsterdam transported to a tropical climate. The coral reefs that surround the island have made it an important destination for divers. The beaches have made it an important destination for vacationers. Experience the extraordinary ethnic mix of people that have formed the island*s traditions.

Twin Cities, Minnesota, the state where the mighty Mississippi River begins. It's also where you will find out how the Pillsbury Bake-Off mirrors our society, discover why St. Paul was a safe haven for gangsters in the 1920's, and shop in the biggest mall in America.

Drive through the Swiss Alps and visit two of Switzerland*s most interesting cities. Climb into a 500-year old clock tower. Learn the real story behind the Swiss Army Knife. Take a look at some traditional and delicious Swiss foods.

San Francisco, a city whose present day gleam began with the discovery of glittering gold. The people who settled San Francisco came from all over the world and as they mixed together they established the traditions that make San Francisco what it is today. Learn this city*s unique history, love of opulence, and appreciation of tolerance.

Beaver Creek, Colorado is one of the most celebrated ski resorts in the world. It has a magnificent setting that was designed to be luxurious but at the same time, family-friendly. Learn how to snowshoe and ski no matter what your age.

Napa Valley, California. Just fifty miles north of San Francisco. Napa is a protected agricultural preserve, and the primary activity is growing grapes that make great wine. See this beautiful part of the world by hot air balloon and learn how to play croquet when you land. Enjoy some of the great foods that accompany all those wines.

Miami, Florida. A sophisticated, subtropical city on the same latitude as the Sahara Desert. It has been described as the American city of the future. There's fun in the sun but there's also a major infusion of cultural excitement and regional performing arts.

Philadelphia is one of America's oldest and most interesting cities. The birthplace of our nation. Find out how it was founded as a Quaker colony and why they are the guardian of The Liberty Bell. Learn why Philadelphia is considered the city of brotherly love. And take a look at some traditional Philly foods.

Springfield, Illinois*the capital of the *Prairie State*. Located in central Illinois, Springfield is one of the richest farming and livestock areas in the United States. Visit historical sites associated with Abraham Lincoln*s life in Springfield and taste Blue Ribbon recipes from the Illinois State Fair.

Ottawa-the capital of Canada-is a beautiful bilingual University town. Tour the architecture, understand the local traditions, and indulge in the French food.

Manhattan is the world epicenter for money, creativity, and culture. In this program, Burt tells you how that came to be and tours you through the town from the tip of the island to Central Park.

Between 1880 and 1920, over 12 million people immigrated to the United States through this tiny island in New York harbor. Burt tells you why they came here and shows you how they changed the United States in terms of food, music, art, literature, and theater.