Rudy Maxa, public radio's original Savvy Traveler and contributing editor for National Geographic's Traveler magazine, shares his authoritative "tips, trips & secret places" from his award-winning public television series. Maxa is the travel expert millions trust to make their trips memorable and hassle-free. Six unforgettable discs, stunningly photographed in high definition, go beyond the guidebooks to vividly capture the character of each destination. From magnificent cities and must-see landmarks, to off the beaten path surprises that only Rudy knows, Best of Travel is the only way to travel in your armchair!

"Don't even think about hitting the road unless you've consulted Rudy Maxa, one of the country's premier travel gurus." - Paul Theroux

Disc 1: India - Plunge right in to Northern India's intoxicating mix of riotous pandemonium and sublime beauty, from Old Delhi's teeming streets, pungent spices, and glorious jumble of shops, to the magnificent man-made wonder, the Taj Mahal. Rajasthan beckons with its irresistible lure of brilliant colors, scorching days, ghostly twilights, and the fiery spirit of its people.

Disc 2: Turkey - This volume gives new meaning to the words, "Turkish delight!" Explore Istanbul's festive Grand Bazaar, more than 4,000 shops and two mosques spread across sixty streets! In addition to some of the world's great buildings--Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Aya Sofia--Rudy goes off the beaten path to get steamed and scrubbed in a 16th century hammam, or public bath, and visits a hookah bar! Take a Blue Cruise along the dazzling Turquoise Coast to discover enchanting Greek and Roman ruins.

Disc 3: Thailand - Explore all of Bangkok's nooks and crannies. Get picture-taking tips from a photojournalist, and visit the fruit and vegetable markets where Thai cooking begins. In the heart of Thailand's Golden Triangle, take an idyllic long-tailed boat ride along the Kok River, luxuriate in out-of-this-world guesthouses and a tented resort, and go bargain hunting at the Night Market. Look no further than the Andaman Coast if you are seeking an island paradise with pristine beaches, secret coves, translucent waters, and spectacular sunsets.

Disc 4: Russia - Built on the whim of a czar to rival the great capitals of Europe, St. Petersburg is unlike any other city in Russia. Bring the champagne and caviar as you explore this city of canals aboard a private water taxi. Marvel at the opulence of the Winter Palace and the treasures of the Hermitage and Russian Museums. In Tallin, you will find cool Internet cafes and blacksmith shops that keep Estonian craft traditions alive. Join the party seekers as they enjoy Tallin's legendary nightlife. Then, discover the lovely countryside, where windmills, stone churches, and saunas outnumber the tourists.

Disc 5: Argentina - Rudy takes tango to the max as he gets into the spirit of Buenos Aires, where the "portenos" live their lives with passion and flair. Cut into a beef lover's paradise at a grill house, cheer on the local "futbol" heroes, and partake in afternoon tea amidst the European elegance at the Alvear Palace Hotel. In Mendoza, Rudy toasts the rising influence of Argentinean wines, as he explores this vintner's paradise. Culinary adventures give way to a trek to the summit of Aconcagua mountain biking, and zip-lining down a mountain.

Disc 6: Japan - Rudy cannot get enough of the sheer vitality of Tokyo. Join the throngs at one of the world's most exciting street intersections with its blazing neon and JumboTron shows. Greet the new day at the Tsukiji fish market, where a staggering 2,000 tons of seafood pass through each day. In Kyoto, gain an appreciation for the beauty in everyday life as Rudy visits a 15th-century Zen garden and strolls the Philosopher's Walk, the most popular place to take in spring flowers.

Disc 1: Australia - Rudy tours Sydney's famed Opera House, goes pub hopping in the old Rocks quarter, explores the cliffs and rainforests of the Blue Mountains, captures glimpses of Australia's legendary wildlife at the Featherdale Park preserve, and swims with sharks at Oceanworld Manly. In Queensland, Rudy goes "troco" for the awe-inspiring Great Barrier Reef and ancient Daintree Rainforest.

Extra Features - Rainforest bird revue; Sydney by air; The Great Barrier Reef; and more!

Disc 2: New Zealand - Whether you are into extreme sports or exhilarating landscapes, New Zealand's South Island has it all! Rudy gets a crash course in Maori bone carving at a local artists' colony, braves white-water rapids on river boards and rides a hot air balloon over "Lord of the Rings" country. On North Island, Rudy kayaks along the glorious coastline, and visits the site where local tribes signed a controversial treaty with European settlers.

Extra Features - Maori warrior practice; Hot air balloon ride; Mussel cruise; and more!

Disc 3: China - Shanghai dazzles with fantastic skyscrapers, non-stop shopping and delicious dining. From traditional Tai Chi in the parks and teahouses to tumbling acrobats and teeming markets, Rudy explores how tradition and modernity co-exist in the burgeoning city. In ever-changing Hong Kong, Rudy savors one of the most majestic skylines on Earth aboard the famous Star Ferry.

Extra Features - Hong Kong jade market; Shanghai parade; Chinese teahouse; and more!

Disc 4: Hawaii - Experience the Hawaiian vacation of your dreams as Rudy visits Maui, where he braves the twisting road to Hana with its cascading waterfalls. On Hawaii's Big Island, Rudy takes a helicopter tour of the world's most active volcano. Honolulu offers fabulous Waikiki Beach, and Rudy remembers World War II history at Pearl Harbor. Head north to the tropical paradise of Kauai, hike the Waimea Canyon and kayak past traditional Hawaiian villages.

Extra Features: Kamokane sing-along; Fire Dancing; USS Arizona memorial; and more!

Disc 5: The Pacific Northwest - Rudy Maxa serves up a generous sampling of San Francisco's flavors, from tangy sourdough bread at the Boudin Bakery to the rich aroma of coffee beans wafting through the North Beach neighborhood. Rudy explores Seattle's lively downtown and waterfront areas and its dynamic cultural scene, as well as its natural wonders. Rudy captures the charm and character of Vancouver and its sister city, Victoria.

Extra Features: Museum of Flight; Asian Art Museum; Chinatown street musicians; and more!

Disc 6: Mexico - Rudy etches a vivid portrait of Guadalajara with its rich history, vibrant culture and passionate artists. Next, it is an easy hop to the coast to bask in the traditional charms of Puerto Vallarta. Rudy visits Mexico City, the world's largest metropolis, and explores its ancient roots at pre-Aztec Teotihuacan. For contemporary excitement, Rudy hangs at the Zocalo, the world's second largest square, and heads for the beaches of Mexican Riviera.

Extra Features - Ballet Folklorico; Anthropology Museum; Tasting tequila; and more!