Rudy Maxa's World

For sheer tropical splendor, the islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora stand alone. Hyper blue lagoons, white-sand beaches, fish of every shape, size and color, as well as a generous and welcoming people make these islands favorite destinations for travelers from around the world. Lush aerial photography is a highlight of this episode.

Experience their rich sea life, crystal blue waters, and vibrant cultures. Tour the diverse reefs of the coral, sea turtle rehabilitation centers, and the many islands in the different atolls. Participate in the oyster-cultivation process at the major pearl farm. See the remote and sparsely populated Marquesas Islands, where dramatic mountains offer evidence of volcanic origins.

Two of the most unique cities in the world are just north of New England. You’ll find brie, pate, jewel box-patisseries, and “s’il vous plait” right along with bagels, maple syrup, hockey, delis, and bocce ball. The people who forged Montreal and Quebec City 400 years ago braved frigid winters, wars and famine to make these beautiful, multi-cultural cities of the world.

From the charming fishing towns of Nova Scotia to the vast wilderness of Newfoundland, these are the last great open spaces of Eastern North America. A touch of New England, a dash of Germany, here a British fort, there an Irish brogue, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland are mixed-up worlds peopled by the descendants of hardy colonists who came to fish and trade fur.

At Istanbul’s Spice Market, brown-gold paprika is carefully molded into the shape of a pyramid. Cinnamon, cumin, ginger, and cardamom infuse the air with the fragrance of the East. From haggis in Scotland to soba and tea in Japan, from asada in Argentina to bibimbap in Korea, food and drink help illustrate the culture and people of a place.

From the world’s largest city, Tokyo, to the colorful chaos of Delhi, and from the modern miracle of Seoul to the teeming streets of Bangkok, “Asian Cities" is a passport to the high-tech marvels and back-street secrets of four of the world’s most amazing cities.