Sam will be visiting this forum through Thursday. This forum only allows replies so that all questions go on one topic. Therefore, please post your questions and comments as replies.
Welcome back Sam!

Hello Samantha, welcome back to the forums. First off, I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year back home in NYC. Congratulations on having completed season two of Passport To Europe, I'm sure we're all excited for new episodes. I watched the Mykonos and Athens episode and I enjoyed them both, a little strange to see such warm weather as we are use to seeing you in your warm coats and gloves. Now that you're back, I can ask you for the usual-an update. Season two of Passport To Europe is finished, what's next for you? I also wanted to ask you your opinion on these three cruise itineraries. I'm going to Europe in the summer. Well, here they are:

Day 0 Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Day 1 Monte Carlo, Monaca
Day 2 Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Day 3 At Sea
Day 4 Barcelona, Spain
Day 5 Mallorca (Palma), Spain
Day 6 At Sea
Day 7 Carthage/Tunis (La Goulette)
Day 8 Palermo, Italy
Day 9 Capri/Naples, Italy
Day 10 Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Day 1 London (Southampton), England
Day 2 At Sea
Day 3 Dublin, Ireland
Day 4 Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland
Day 5 At SEa
Day 6 Bergen, Norway
Day 7 At Sea
Day 8 Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Day 9 Brussels/Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium
Day 10 Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), France
Day 11 London (Southampton), England

Day 1 Southampton (London)
Day 2 Zeebrugge (Brussels/Bruges)
Day 3 At Sea
Day 4 Oslo
Day 5 Copenhagen, Denmark
Day 6 At Sea
Day 7 Hamburg
Day 8 Hamburg
Day 9 Rotterdam
Day 10 Le Havre (Paris/Normandy)
Day 11 Southampton (London)

Well that's it for now. Talk to you later.

Hey Samantha!

My Language Arts teacher is going to mail all the Disney Yeacher Awards stuff today! I'm so excited! I hope my teacher wins because if she does then she is going to take to DisneyLand for the week of July 29, 2006! Hey have you ever done a show for Disneyland? If you haven't then you can do a show for Disneyland for the week of July 29 , 2006 trough August 2, 2006? You don't have to do it, but this is only a suggestion. My email address is Phoebe13430@yahoo.com. I hope you got my Christmas card I sent you!

Laura (Samantha430)

PS: I hope you respond to this!
PS again: I got mixed up on the dates for the Christmas card I sent you, it's suppose to be the week of July 29 through August 2, 2006 instead the week of July 23. I hope I can get an autographed picture of you. if you want to talk to me my email address again is Phoebe13430@yahoo.com

It is great to have the smiling fingers of our travel goddess back, YYYAAAAAHHHHHHH.
I woke up this morning at 6:30am(on a Sunday?) to watch and tape episode two, it was one of the best Samantha.
I am very sorry to hear about John and his family, it's like I now know someone who was affected, and it brings it closer to home.
How much trouble did Stan have with filmming, did he always have permission, or did he need to use gorilla tactics to get the shots, something that I have gotten very good at.
I have maybe a dozen more questions, but I will draw them out as we go.
It's a good thing you have a lot of pictures on this site, otherwise I would never get one
Have a great week Samantha, and I look forward to hearing about the first half of season two.
I'm closing in on 100 post's, I don't know if that's good or bad.
Talk more soon.

Robert

Samantha, may I send you a signed copy of my last film along with a signed poster, and where would be the best place to send it.

Robert

Samantha!!
Here we go again!
I sincerely hope there were no mice to welcome you home this time, and that you are having a fine bit of time NOT spent in hotel rooms. Not sure I will think of anything poetic or profound to say this visit, as I’ve pretty much burned myself out on these forums lately. And hopefully, there will be many new fans for you to meet here, as more people discover your shows. (Not easy with the current scheduling, as you know)
Father Orange wisely got me a DVR for Christmas, so I can now catch you whenever! Yay!

This fan site has been such a fascinating work in progress since I stumbled upon it almost three years ago. It has been great fun to watch it grow and evolve, just as you have evolved in your career. Each member brings something unique, and I know you appreciate the diversity. It makes me happy to know that it has served as a vehicle for you to reclaim some of the positive energy that you regularly send out to us through our TV screens.

I love the new hair, the Greek episodes and your always insightful journal entries. Mother O's unsolicited advice for the day is that you should look into finding a publisher to front you some money for a book project. There is no reason you could not go the way of Rachael Ray, if you wanted to. You have more than done for Travel what she has done for Food. And you have done it without excessive hand movements and with far more eloquence, and a better wardrobe, too. Isn't it time for your own red sports car yet?
As for questions that aren’t too personal...
Hmmm ... I have three for you to pick and choose from:
1.) You have been complimented here on just about everything I can think of except maybe your posture, Samantha. So I have to wonder, did your mother always tell you to stand up straight or did it just happen naturally?
2.) Did you ever try Peach Amaretto Jam from Stonewall Kitchens? It’s even better than the Raspberry Peach Champagne Jam, I have recently discovered.
3.) Did you receive the card I sent to Travel Channel? If not, I think you should send Christo-whatever his name was, over to the mailroom to find it.

Thank you so much for coming to chat with all of us. And thanks also for continuing to deliver knowledge of new people and places to the inside of our heads in such a pleasurable way. I think that is your destiny, or part of it anyway.

As always,
Mother Orange

Hi Sam,

I think season two of P to E is off to a great beginning. Of the two programs so far, I preferred Mykonos over Athens. The former struck me as more genuinely Greek. I was fascinated by the island you visited on a day trip where no one was allowed to be born or die. You also appeared more in your element away from the hubub of the big city. And new stylist Ruth selected the perfect clothing for your shoots.

I'm looking forward to Santorini and Crete in the next two days, but the real anticipation comes at the end of the month with Provence, France and Turin, Italy. And congratulations on the airing of the Turin episode in the evening. I almost thought it was a misprint when I saw it. It's been a while since we've seen you in 'Prime Time'. Perhaps Travel Channel is listening to the pleas of your fans after all.

I have been travelling a little too since our last chat. My husband and I celebrated our 20th Anniversary with a road trip up through the Pacific Northwest. The beauty of Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia have long called to me. It had been over 20 years since I had been further north than Ashland Oregon. It was a trip of firsts for my husband. He had never taken the ferry from Washington over to Vancouver Island (an especially lovely trip if one takes the more leisurely route through the San Juan Islands making stops at the tiny islands along the way), never visited Victoria ( which he now LOVES and cannot wait to return), and he had never visited the Buchart Gardens - one of my most favorite spots on earth. A first for both of us was the seaplane ride I gave him as a gift. It was one of the things he had always wanted to do, and I figured the aerial views of Seattle would provide memories that would last us a lifetime. The ride was the best hour I've ever spent in the air. And I LOVED the takeoff and landing from Lake Union. Water provides a cushion that no tarmack can match.

Before I go, I wanted to tell you that the orange and white tabby we adopted from the rescue group has turned into quite the love bug. The people boarding her while we were gone grew to love her so much, I was momentarily afraid we wouldn't get her back. So a shout out to Fiona from Tellie and Gypsy.

Hope your time home finds you surrounded with family and friends. You deserve the best Sam.

Take Care,
Carol

Hey, Lady Samantha!

How's everything with you and Fiona?

Missed the first showing of your Athens episode, but caught and recorded the excellent Mykonos episode this morning. What fun you had with everyone there! There's a discussion starter about it over on the Passport To Europe Forum, but I imagine it will get plenty of discussion here, as well as the other episodes airing this week.

So ya got to stomp some grapes! Looked like fun! Was that your first time? Mykonos seems to be quite a friendly and wonderful island. Was the coffee you had that "stared at cha" bitter or sweet tasting? You know I love coffee, and would be curious about that.

Well, like Laura, I hope you got my Christmas mail okay, Sammy, and have had a chance to enjoy some of the gifts in the package.

How was your Christmas? Did you decorate a tree for your loft, or is that a problem for Fiona?

Well, that's all of the questions for now. Chat with ya more tomorrow.

Steve

Hey, girlfriend! Welcome back, sister.
Saw the new episodes started and had a feeling to come here and it looks like my timing rocks! Looking forward to hearing from you. Hope all is well and groovy.
I saw Santorini is coming up soon and I've always wanted to go there. That Katikies hotel they always show on the Travel Channel looks awesome. Did you get to check that place out? Maybe all the places look like that there (?) since all those bright white villas jutting out over the water on the dark cliffs look like something from a fairy tale. Can you tell me what you especially liked, or didn't like about Santorini? Any warnings or neg. stuff you couldn't mention on the show? I guess the beaches aren't too great and probably dark and rocky huh?
I'm still enjoying all the shows and love learning with you so - Good Job, Good Job!
Stay in touch
Your Reading-town twin,
Kathy

Mother O,
I believe the name is Carmine. Perhaps Tibor. Let's hope he has not fallen down on the job.

And Samantha,
It is so good to have you back here on your board again, and think of all the places you've been and seen since last you sat down for a forum week. I trust it's been quite memorable, but hope you have the next two months all to your own domestically grounded happiness. People on the board last week seemed most concerned about your hairstyle. I very much like September's more authentic dark Samanthan look, with a little auburn it seems tossed in, but think I'll mention other matters of past and future travels all the same, now that you're back, and it looks as though they've given us Greece Week as your accompaniment.

The day they aired the Athenian episode it was one of those classic winter days here, damp and chilled with dark tree branches almost black in grey surrounding mists outside the windows, and no sun anywhere to be seen. It was the perfect time, curled up here (well, I don't actually curl), to see warm Athens and your return under bright Mediterranean sun. These Passports are such delightful escapes for us, especially now in days that darken early. As always, thank you so much for your presentations. We do vicariously live them (or what makes it to the final versions, anyway).

I did not even know where Mykonos was before today, much less anything about it, but in fact turns out to be the "Greek Isles" we likely all play wistfully in our minds on winter days like these. White villas spilling down to placid harbor with Tourist Office quality windmills over your shoulder, grapes to stomp, cool drinks to sip under umbrella shade, bars to linger in by night. All we lacked was the silly donkey ride, and still two Greek episodes to go for that... It was a lovely episode, Samantha, and you looked wonderful and wrote wonderfully, of course -- I just repeat myself these days. But I also second Mother O's suggestion for a literary version for us later.

Oxford, on the other hand, I like to think I know much more about, wandering there frequently over the last twenty years. I'll be most interested to hear some later time this week your feelings on that town that you may not particularly have liked so much. But the more you poke around it, the more it offers, so I hope you got to nose about a lot. Way back in grad school doing research there, I'd look up from Disraeli's letters in the Bodleian reading room to see the leaves on the old tree branches swishing against the leaded windows and remind myself, "I'm in Oxford. I'm actually in Oxford." I'm not fully sure I ever believed it then. It's where Alice in Wonderland was written, after all. And you can certainly believe that if you've ever wandered along Addison's Walk towards the watermill shaded along the little river on a late summer afternoon, which I hope you got to do. The laughing dog carved stone gargoyles over Catte St. I hope you, somehow, got to see as well. I know you'd smile back at them if you did. But it looks like Greece and France and even Turin show up for us first.

Is Scandinavia next on the itinerary then? There seems to be a growing groundswell of support for Budapest, and then there's a city in Italy that starts with a V (and it isn't Vicenza) that I hear Father O very much wants to see. I'm not going to mention it, of course, but there was some earlier wit who supposedly telegraphed home when he arrived: "Streets full of water. Please advise." But I love your series, Samantha, as I think I might have mentioned once or twice before. It just slips out sometimes. Welcome back, Ms. Brown.

Hey Sam! I guess the best (and the only way) to kick off this post is to congratulate you and the crew on the completion of Season 2- Passport to Europe! I must say, I was a bit nervous going to college, thinking that I would only get four or five standard channels on my television…it sure was a surprise to get 96 channels, fortunately including the Travel Channel. Needless-to-say, I’ve been able to enjoy all of Season 1 and would like to extend my appreciation and admiration for the job you have done. And to echo the Captain, these episodes have certainly helped me escape my everyday reality, curling up (and I do curl up ) with a nice hot chocolate and comfy pillow during these cold winter days.It was a pleasure being able to tag along with you on your joyous endeavors. I’ve also been able to follow along with the journal entries you’ve provided, which I think is a wonderful bonus!

“I’ll Be Home for Christmas”—man, I never thought that would apply to me in regards to traveling home for the holidays. With finals beginning on the 1st and running through the 15th, I thought Christmas would never come. But I made it back and I made it back just in time to start and quickly end the chaos of last minute shopping. I’m proud to say that all gifts were officially wrapped before sunset on Christmas Eve! (I’d say that’s pretty decent timing ). I’m not sure when filming allowed you to get back home, but I do hope you had a bit more time to settle in and then do some shopping before the holidays approached.

My family took an exciting vacation to Walt Disney World between Christmas and New Years. Your Disney Holiday Special presented everything perfectly! I’ve never been there this time of year and it is more magical than I’ve ever seen it. The snow falling on Main Street nearly brought me to tears, but then again, I’m just a mush for those type of things. For a short story (and I promise to end after this, as I should step aside for the newcomers): I was in EPCOT making a souvenir purchase (how could I not?) when I curiously asked the cast member when Disney usually takes down their decorations. The woman replied saying decorations come down starting the day after new years, while some remain up for two weeks after that. To my surprise, she then goes on to ask: “Do you know Samantha Brown?” After I shot her a very startled look, I said “yes” and she went on to discuss your holiday special, which she said many cast members enjoy. Quite funny to have your name mentioned during a most unexpected time! It was also funny to think, “yeah I know Sam… and she kinda knows me too!”

Now, as promised, I must retire myself for the night and possibly step aside for the week to allow the newcomers some much deserved posting space. My mom and brother send you a big hello! It’s like catching up with an old friend…always a pleasure to talk with you, Sam!

Ashley

Hi Saaaaam! I want to start out by saying thanks for chatting with us. I enjoy all your shows, so thanks for those too! You’ve made me laugh so many times. I couldn’t even begin to name all of my loser-laughing moments! I’ve really, really enjoy your latest Passport To Europe episodes. Great job and I absolutely ADORE everything you wear. It’s nice to see all these lovely places since the chances of me ever going are pretty slim. You brighten my day every time I watch!


I’ve never heard you talk about her and forgive me if you have, but tell me about Fiona! I have two cats, a dog, a hamster, and a fish, so I love all kinds of pet stories! I love animals. I think life without them, music, photography, and your shows would be just dull.

My cats are Kloie and PC. Kloie is around 5 years old and she’s calico. PC is 3 or 4 and he’s a tabby. Kloie has lost a lot of her “outgoingness” ever since my cat, TJ, died. He was all she knew other than me. It was a really sad thing to go through and I’m still not over it. Neither is she. She really only associates with me now. I can’t take her anywhere without getting a million comments on how pretty her colors are. Now we also have PC who graces my home with his crazy ways and antics. He came to live with us when my sister found out she was pregnant again. PC’s favorite napping spot just so happened to be the new baby’s crib…not good! I just couldn’t tell my sister no when she asked me to take him. He’s quite a character. I can’t even look at him anymore without laughing.

I look forward to seeing your new journals, pictures, and shows from your travels in Europe! I don’t think I ever thanked you for the autograph… and shame on me for not doing so!! You’re now framed and next to my TV. You just make my room happier.

Talk to you later!

Brittany

Hello Samantha!

I am from the Philippines and yes, include me in your growing list of fans.

I have been watching Travel and Living Asia since April 2004. After so many months, I found myself saying to my family and friends, "You know what, Samantha Brown is my favorite travel host." And then one day, I found myself surfing the web, looking for more information about you and checking the schedule for your shows. And here I am now, trying to chat with you. Is this addiction or what?

I like the way you bring life into your show. Just this weekend, I watched your Interlaken episode and I was laughing so hard hearing you laugh and scream while rolling down the hill from inside the big ball. I was actually waiting to see what you looked like afterwards, if you can still walk straight. Sadly, it was not shown. How did you feel afterwards? Will you do it again? I also liked how you skated inside the glacier with so much grace.

I envy the rest of the people here in this forum who get to see so you on TV almost everyday. We, in Asia, are not that lucky. Beginning this year, Passport to Europe is aired one episode only per week. Friday night and repeats on Saturday morning and afternoon. It will take me how many weeks to be able to complete Season Two. And we are only halfway thru Season One. At this rate, we will finish all your episodes next year.

We got to see you more often last year. Can you help me tell whoever is planning our schedule here that we want to see more of you? Please please please? I cannot relate to what the rest are saying regarding Mykonos, Athens, your new hair, etc. Do I need to migrate to US just so I can see you on TV more often? I wonder if immigration would consider that a valid reason to go there. :p

My email address is maggieco77@yahoo.com. Would like to ask for a copy of your autographed picture too. Thanks!

Congratulations and God Bless you!

Maggie

Hey there Chica! I have a quiet moment here at work so I thought I'd throw my "hey there" in the ring as well!

Welcome home and another "way to go" for a most excellent season (so far) of Passport. Loved, loved, loved the Greek festival on Mykonos. It looked like so much fun, and exactly they way I like to see the real city and meet the people. And when you think of Greece - those sugar cube houses do come to mind. Even in Mama Mia! they carried that theme in the props!

Not much has been going on here. After 2 1/2 years of waiting - we have hired a new ER doctor and I FINALLY get to move to days. That should be happening in the next 2 months. YAY!

I just recently got back from 10 days at the Grand Wailea. Truely awesome! I was a bit disappointed by the water elevator. I was hoping to be shot into the sky, but in fact it was slow and tame. But the resort - WOW. Awesome. Made in to Hana this time and drove the "forbidden" way home. Saw whales. It was very nice. And it snowed the second we landed back in Chicago. Yeah....real funny.

I spent about 3 weeks over two separate trips in Louisana after the hurricanes. Devastating. I was in Baton Rouge for a time (at the vet school), got evacuated from Slidell when Katrina's sister Rita came along and spent a week or so in New Orleans proper, all with the Red Cross and disaster relief corp. It was shocking to be there AFTER the storms...can't imagine living through them. I hope your sound man John all the best in rebuilding. The comment about his scared and confused dogs made me smile since that is why I was there. So many scared and confused pets.

Can't wait to hear from you and although I may not think of any questions...I will look forward to chatting with you!

Hope all is well. How is Mom doing? And Fiona? She recognize you? How long after your return home does she forgive you?

"Talk" to you soon!
Kelly

Happy New Year Sam! Just wanted to thank you for all the great episodes of Passport and Hotels. I've been following for about a year now and just wanted to have the chance to say Thank You. You're the best and can't wait to see whats next. Keep smilin.

Sam,

1. What eps have you taped so far of the second season of Passport to Europe that we can look forward to airing?

2. what locations are you going to be taping after your break?

3. had a chance yet to come up with what is coming up after you wrap the final eps of Passport to Europe season 2?

4. did you find out anything about a samantha brown dvd set? we want all your shows- girl meets hawaii, great vacation homes, 3 seasons great hotels, 2 seasons passport to europe, all your one hour shows, all the bloopers and additional material on all the shows taped but not aired, all the promos- for beach week, i love new york, mardi gras. all in one box set- and then from there all the other shows, promos, bloopers 1 hour shows in their own box set as they get taped.

5. did you do a mardi gras 1 hour special or just promos?

Hi, Sam!

My wife and I are HUGE fans, although she'll say that I'm addicted to ANYTHING that you're doing! I love all of your Disney stuff - we went to Disney World with the family during the Christmas season back in 2002; it was great! We go to Las Vegas a lot; my wife and I were married in Vegas back in 1996. This past October, we were at the Broadmoor and actually saw your picture...

The most time I've spent in Hawaii is 10 hours in Honolulu's airport waiting for a connecting flight, either to the Philippines or the other way, back to the mainland. I would love to take my wife to Hawaii some time. I'm not sure how I would go about planning something like that, though - I guess you would need at least 10 days to make it worthwhile?

Next month we are flying from Columbus (OH) - we live in Lancaster, OH - to Los Angeles; I will be graduating from law school out there, then we will be stopping in Vegas (my favorite playground out West) before coming back to Columbus.

I would love to get one of your autographed pictures. My e-mail is sean_tolentino@juno.com .

Thanks, Sam, and keep up the great work!

Hi Sam,

Its nice to have you back. I look forward to reading the new journals. Hey since you'll be in country for a few weeks, Have you ever thought about trying to get a guset host gig on Regis and Kelly? You be great in that format and I know that your fans would set their Tivo's for that.

Hello Everybody!

boy it's good to be back. We have finished the first set of episodes for season two and will resume in March for the second half when better weather returns. It is amazing to have two months home but there's no rest. I have a new home and drum roll please...I'm engaged! yes, I somehow managed to have a meaningful relationship in the few weeks that i was home. It was a very romantic proposal in Milan while we were shooting the episode there so you'll read all about it (if you really want to) in my Milan journal. So now i am diving into the planning of a wedding which is such a production really, I had no idea. Las Vegas here i come!!! That combined with putting together a home is making me dream of a one way ticket back to Europe...curtains or drapes, what colors to paint the walls bisque, creme or cappucino froth? I have been traveling for so long that all my furntiture was aquired during my early twenties found on street corners on trash day so the home is getting a complete overhall. So these next few months will be very busy. But I am very interested in finding out what has been happening with you all while I've been gone. I've been reading your posts on the road and as always it makes me feel a little closer to home. So what's up?

Travel1st

Thanks for your warm welcome! those are tought cruise itineraries to choose from but I would think the Rome itinerary the best. I did one simular and absolutely loved it.

Samantha430

Hello Laura, good luck to your teacher. I have been to Disneyland we actually shot the Grand Californian Resort there and had a fabulous time. I have a big stack of fan mail that I am going thru (lucky me ) and hopefully will find your Christmas card.

ambitiousduck,

is it Mykonos today? I'll have to check. Johns doing great and thanks for your concern. As for Stan all shots have to be backed up by a permit. If not it's illegal and we would all be in alot of trouble. Sometimes we shoot things that after we are told we don't have the permit to do that so then they are scrapped.

ambitious-best place to send things is to PineRidge film and television. Thanks!

Hi Sam: Love the Passport to Europe shows, in partuclar the Edinburgh episode.

We visited there about a year or so ago and stayed at the Castle Apartments on the Royal Mile, closer to the castle, hence the name. I do believe at one time the hotel was used by the castle as some offices but now converted over to rooms. It was quite a place, there is no parking lot so if you had a vehicle I have no idea where you would park. We took the train from England where we were staying with daughter and son in law so we were walking eveywhere. Had no idea where the hotel was and we didn't familiarize ourselves with the area totally so kind of winged it when we got off the train. Eventually found the place with the help of a local, a very nice lady. We rang the bell to get in and walked to the 3rd floor to register. Our room was on the 12th floor, so I figured we'd have a good view of the area, which we did. You can see the Firth of Forth, or was it Fifth, from our window. However, the kicker is the place has no elevators so we had to carry the luggage up to the 12th floor. That wasn't too bad but there were no phones in the rooms either so if you needed the front desk....you guessed it, hoof it down to the 3rd floor. My wife and I drew cards as to whom would walk down to tell them our shower wasn't working. I can go on and on about the place. It was quite an experience there and it wasn't bad, in fact it was one of the more interesting places I've been too.

Anyway, when in Edinburgh did you go to the Greyfriars Bobby statue? That was quite a story about the dog. Did you try haggis? I did and I liked it, my wife didn't. We toured the castle and the weather there changes instantly, as I noted in your show. We ate at a restaurant called the Frankenstein Pub. It was decorated in the Frankenstein motif. Sat in chairs that looked like electric chairs and the TV's played nothing but Frankenstein movies non stop. Quite unusual.

We also took a bus tour up to the highlands and saw such beatiful country side. We stopped at Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness and explored the area. Didn't see Nessie but looked quite hard for her. Our tour guide, dressed in the traditional garb (kilt, sporran and knife) had to have been a history professor. He rattled off so many dates and names and told the tales about the Scottish clans, that he couldn't have been anything less. But since we hardly know anything about Scottish history, who's to know if he made it up. Doubt it. He was quite amusing and the trip was well worth it.

We enjoyed our trip to Edinburgh and Scotland very much. No trip would have been complete without visiting the local pubs like Deacon Brodie's Tavern, the Jolly Judge and a few others.

Thanks for your work on the show, it's the best one around and how about an autographed picture for my office, I would put you between Jimmy Buffett and Markie Post.

My e-mail is swoyboro@adelphia.net.

Thanks again and sorry about the length.
Gene

Congratulations on your engagement Samantha. I'm sure you will be happy with love in your life. The Greek episodes have been excellent to date and I'm sure the rest will be as well. Cheers to a happy life!!! God Bless!

Congratulations Sam on your engagement! The new episodes of Passport to Europe are fantastic. Is it possible for your shows to get released on DVD? Lots of other fans like me have expressed interest in purchasing a boxed set.

Hi! Samantha.Thank you for coming on to talk to us,That it so special of you.Congratulations on your engagement,and new home.What can I say Your shows are all sooo outstanding,And I love your journal's, I just want to thank you.Bless your heart.Love Mary.

Mother O

I'm no Rachel Ray she's certainly reached super star status although Passport to Europe tries to bring you to cities in a half an hour so maybe we should re-title it Vienna in 30 minutes! or Thirty minute Travels.

I'm glad you brought up the evolution of this forum if there's one thing I constantly wonder at is the diversity of people here that you spoke so eloquently about. I feel very proud that so many different types of people as well as ages respond to our show on Travel Channel. And it has meant so much to me to experience the phases of life the (Brownheads LOVE IT!) have gone thru and yet have remained loyal to my shows. It means the world really.

it's funny you should mention posture as I am circled like a donut over this computer. I just got back from the StoneWall Kitchens flagship store in Maine and did not even see that flavor-although I sampled everything else!

I haven't received Cards yet but I believe there's a package I have yet to open so maybe ther Cards will be in there

nice talking to you and tell Father O I said hello!

Samantha, just wondering if any new Great Hotels are in your future?

Carol hummingbirdlady

You know a trip to the Pacific West has always been a dream trip of mine. I have heard of hotels where you feel sequestered away from the rest of the world while you watch the Whales make their yearly migration to warmer waters. Sounds blissful. Weren't you nervous landing on water? my heart would have definately stopped on that one.

I'm excited about being on Prime time again too please watch it. I have seen the rough cut and it is an excellent show.

Is the Orange Tabby Tellie or Gypsy? Fiona says hello as well!

Steve

How's it going? nice to hear from you again. The Greek coffee is VERY strong and the Greeks like it sugary sweet. At four o'clock when the sun has wilted you to an inch of your life it absolutely hits the spot. You are the fourth person who said they sent me a card for Christmas so thank you, thank you but I haven't got it yet-although I do have to check one package so here's hoping!

I got home so late from this trip that I didn't even break out my gumdrop tree! It's this 12 inch high silver tree that you impale gumdrops on. Every time I walk by I plop one in my mouth-so it has to be "decorated" alot.

Sam ....

and

I am so very happy for you! I think you may have crushed a thousand hearts with that announcment.


I've gotta get some sleep. I'll check in tomorrow!

Kelly

Oh Captain, my Captain! my wonderful trip is done.

Captuttle, let me express to you, know that I have the floor how much the "Message in a Bottle" meant to me and all that joined in as well. I know I told you before but the effort you put into them it bares repeating.

I read how people feel about my new look and I understand but I just couldn't be blond anymore.

It certainly makes sense why Travel Channel would air the Greece episodes first-how cruel of them to do so in the fridged dark days of winter. Hopefully the episodes will provide some well needed golden sun.

I will look for your comments on Oxford. Personally I felt I could have done better. I believe it's paired with Stratford upon Avon and being a lover of Shakespeare tried to make a conection with traveling and discovering one's own language. How we should use it more-but i think it fell flat. But I loved being there and was just shocked when I found out that Alice in Alice in Wonderland was a real girl! so we have fun with that one on the show.

Scandinavia is slated for June and please, please keep your fingers crossed for Budapest.
I know that there are some very good shows in Passport season two. Santorini is an absolute favorite (especially my meeting with Christoforos, the artist) Normandy, Marseille is fantastic! Provence, Lyon...oh Captaintuttle you will NOT be disappointed!

XashleyKristenX!!!!!!

you sound very well as usual! Freshman year of college has a way of knocking one off their feet for awhile and it sounds as if you haven't missed a step. What are you studying may I ask? Finals to this day when I'm overwhelmed before a break I think "i feel like I have five days of finals" that time is just etched in my mind. When I was in school all i ever watched was Days of our Lives my girlfriends and I would discuss it like it was to be our thesis. Glad to see that in your busy school schedule you still have time for ol'Samantha. I was worried like a mom I suppose that once you went to college I would never hear from you again. But Capttuttle and Mother O had assured me that you were still alive and kicking. Doing the sorority thing? I didn't since I was in the Drama department it already felt like I was in one.

How many times have you gone to Disney now? And how funny that the clerk brought up my name like that. And of course you know me! I consider you an old friend as well. Tell your mom and Brother I say hello too. They must love having you home.

don't be a stranger

Dear Samantha:

Welcome home, SB! Wonderful to have you here in the forum again. Pressed for time a bit here, so please forgive the cut & paste message (and I must confess to neither having seen PTE season 2 or your new hairstyle - yet).

For quite some time in my travels, I adopted the habit of sending mementos of the journey to friends and family back in the US. Early on, I received thanks and occasional return mementos of others’ journeys; but in time, thanks faded. When home for the holidays last month, I dropped in on my octogenarian mother and found her (remote in hand) clad in Arabian headdress, French designer sunglasses, a blue silk kimono and fuzzy slippers, surrounded by Cameroonian masks, various miniatures of the Eiffel Tower, a scale model of Big Ben, bier steins, little windmill salt shakers, samurai swords (which she alternately used to carve the holiday turkey or threaten the cat) … you get the picture. I couldn’t help but notice how much my dear old mum had come to resemble a Moroccan street vendor.

One garage sale later, and the mother returned to her former matronly self, I mentioned to her that Samantha Brown prefers sending spirits (schnapps, wine/whiskey blends, etc,) to friends and relatives back home. She thought it a stupendous idea and, since I’ve gone off once again, my brother (who lives nearby) tells me she’s taken to my new gifting practice like a merchant marine. As you’ve doubtless predicted, she’s developed an entirely different problem, the cat’s run off, and this is where you come in.

Being the good and dutiful daughter, friend, employee (etc.), that you are, how do you avoid turning the homes of those close to you into a Pier 1 hallucinogenic-nightmare-gone-very-very-wrong, or otherwise paving the dark path to rehab? Having come to discover that travel chotchkeys are not always welcome and often generate unintended results, now I usually just send postcards but still feel guilty about not sharing as much as I could.

Tell us all, SB, what are your gifting rules whilst abroad?

Well, it’s Cheers then, isn’t it …

Intl Doc

[My heartiest best wishes to you and your betrothed, SB!]

photographbrit,

Hey Brittany! I'm glad I can make you laugh thats my goal to entertain while you learn a thing or two about people around the world. Fioana has been my cat for 12 years. She's second generation as well since I had her mom. Now that I'm gone so much she gets understandably a bit upset with me but I have a roomate who adores her and works from home so she is never alone. If I didn't travel I would be like you with many animals but right now I can't even keep a plant. I am so sorry about TJ and how its affecting Kloie. Its incredible how sensitive animals are. When I bring out my suitcase to pack for another trip abroad Fiona runs away and won't come out from under the bed. Its heartbreaking sometimes. I'm glad you got your picture!

Maggie from the Philippines!

Welcome and glad to see you take the time to write. I knew we were on in Malaysia and Singapore but I didn't know about the Philippines so I am for one very excited about the prospect of people from other countries and cultures joining our forum. As you will see it's a great group of people and you will certainly be a fascinating addition.

So do you only see Passport to Europe? or do you get Great Hotels as well? As for wanting to see more of my shows the best thing to do is to write to Travel and Living Asia since it's they who bought the show from Travel Channel.

when I "zorbed" or rolled down the hill and screamed my head off fearing death. We had no idea what was going to happen to me once the ball started rolling and were a bit worried that I could become violently ill. So we shot the getting out of the Zorb after but the editors didn't use it. Also the physical act of getting out of that plastic thing was so exhausting. One person has to hold the ball in place while two men grab your arms and yank you out. meanwhile your pants are being pulled off of you so we felt that wasn't proper viewing for television-but it would have been hilarious!

So glad you made it to the forum would love to hear more about you and your country

take care,
Samantha

Keldvm!!!

Hey there Kelly,

my gosh it's been awhile. I can't believe you spent ten days at the Grand Wailea! lucky! yeah, the water elevator leaves alot to be desired...like a nice margarita but I still appreciated the coolness of it. did you dine at Humuhumunukunuku'apua'a? And what's this about nulling and voiding your rental car agreement? On one of our trips in Girl Meets Hawaii we took that road to since we would be late to the airport and wouldn't you know we got a flat tire. it's a gorgeaous drive though and i'm glad we did it. especially since we made our flights. Did you put your head underwater in the ocean and listen to the whale song? I think that's my favorite.

For your work in Louisana was that to volunteer to help the animals? God Bless You. People in Europe couldn't believe what was happening to our country and the lack of immediate response that left so many people absolutely helpless. Can you tell us how the effort is going now? I mean on the animal front. I give to ASPCA and Humane Society is there another group you respect?

no go to bed!

Well Hello Solokingcat

It's great to see some new faces and please keep watching...and I'll keep smiling!

Don't be a stranger, Sam.

Good Afternoon Hotelsfan

let's see look forward to

Greece: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini and Crete
France: Normandy, Britany, Marseille, Provence, Lyon
England: Oxford, Stratford Upon Avon and Cornwall
Italy: Milan and Turin
Switzerland: Geneva

for season two we have two months to figure that out! but Scandinavia is definitely on the list.

I don't know if they have ever thought of merchandising my shows and unfortunately its not up to me or you know you would have a autograph copy of my shows for such a fantastic fan you are. I think an entire show of bloopers would be a very good idea because what happens on camera and off are sometimes two VERY different things so I'll work on that one

For Mardi Gras, Beach Week and New York those are considered intersitials or promotional commercials only aired on the network so I know those will not make a DVD set.

I think Mardi Gras this year will be a particularly interesting don't you agree. I know from my sound man John that there will no doubt be one HUGE party.

take care,
Sam

Steve

Tell your wife thanks for being a fan and I'm sure what you have is a "healthy" addiction. First of all I can't believe my picture is still hanging at the Broadmoor! what a riot. If you are going to Hawaii from OH I would say definitely 10 days and no less to make it worth your while. Congratulations on your upcoming graduation from Law school. What type of advice may I pester you for?

Actually, the name is Sean not Steve, but since YOU made the mistake, it is quite acceptable. As far as advice, if you are planning to patent anything, I'm your guy. I'm planning on taking the U.S. Patent Bar exam in April.

Please don't forget to send a picture...

e-mail: sean_tolentino@juno.com

Helllooooo...testing - one- two -three.
The board won't let me post! Keeps saying I'm using "trigger words." I've tried several times since 8pm.

Sam, do you think you could email me so I could send you my question? kthynoll@aol.com
Thanks.
Your Reading-town twin,
Kathy

Hi Sam! Congratulations on your engagement. I've only recently started poking my head around ths board, but I've been watching Passport to Europe and Great Hotels for about a year now. They make me smile

I like the way you present the cities you're visiting: informative and entertaining. I happened to catch Rick Steve's show one day when he was in Seville and then the next day was your episode in Seville. What are the odds? It was interesting to see 2 different takes on the same city almost back to back.

Lastly, and I don't know how you'll take this, but I have a myspace page and I listed you as one of my heroes. And you join such lovely company as Rachael Ray, Amy Wynn Pastor, and Dennis Rodman. I admire that you get to travel all the time as your job.

So feel free to check it out. http://www.myspace.com/ecilao

Take Care and Happy New Year!
-Eci

Greetings and Happy New Year Samantha:

Congratulations and best wishes in your soon to be wed life! Maybe you and "Mr. Samantha" could be a travelling husband and wife team and your husband could give the guy's perspective....."The beer in Torino is GREAT and the sports cars are cool!" Although it seems you cover the beverage area very well..I don't think you've turned down anything to drink that's been set in front of you, legal or otherwise...HA!

Here's my question, and it's a little generic....but; Of all these cultures and places that you have experienced, which one(s) really seem to be 1) The most refined and sophisticated, and 2) The most earthy, human, and simple. It would follow that you have a unique view of these various cultures because you move from one to the other very quickly, though not staying in one, other than the US, very long. Thanks again...thanks for having class, not being caught up with yourself, and just being 'real.'

Duane K Estill

Hi Samantha,

I am a big fan of the show and have done quite a bit of traveling myself. My question is how did you go about getting where you are today? I’m a pretty recent graduate and have been working for a media agency along with getting some on-air experience with QVC but I was wondering if you could give me any advice on how to get a career like yours! I love to travel and to work for the travel channel would be an absolute dream. I did apply for the new season of 5 takes but I am wondering if I should go back to school to get a masters in journalism or continue on the path I’m going. I’m just trying to get as much local experience as possible and work my way up but if you have any advice what so ever I’d be thrilled to hear it!
Thanks and have a great day!

-kimberlee

Hi Samantha,
I just love all of your shows! In fact, I tell my husband that in my next life I want to come back as you.

I've been especially interested in your shows on Greece because we are going there in September. We will be touring southern Greece (where my father was born) for 10 days and then meeting up with friends in Athens. All 10 of us will then travel to Santorini and Naxos.

Other than the obvious (i.e. the Acropolis), what would you recommend that we not miss while visiting Athens and Santorini? Also, what was your favorite meal in Greece?

Finally, out of all the many wonderful places you have visited, which ones would you go back to on your own time?

Thanks for taking us to countries and areas of the United States that we may never see in person, but at least were able to see through your eyes.

Bonnie

PS - Congratulations and best wishes on your upcoming wedding!

Hey, Sam! It’s been quite awhile. First of all, best wishes on your coming marriage! For some reason, I just knew that you were going to share something like that with us. I don’t know why, but I wish you the very best of everything!

Actually, I wanted to tell you that PTE has really been great! I feel like I’m right there with you and I’ve enjoyed the shows so very much. I’ve been such a home body for so long now, but you’ve really got me wanting to travel again! You have such a talent for making one feel involved and not just listening to a narrator. Unfortunately, I haven’t yet seen any of the new ones, but am looking forward to watching those. I’ll have to tape them or wait for Sunday mornings!

My question is about ancestry. During one of the Ireland episodes, you referred something about ancestors, but said that your ancestors were not from Ireland. Do you know what your ancestry is and if so, what is it? I have been researching my family for about 6 months now and it is just so amazing! To see the names of the people that my grandmother talked about actually written on a census form or other document is just an indescribable feeling. I find myself spending hours and hours searching through different databases. Thank goodness that I wrote down the stories she told me and made copies of the family bible. If you are interested in this stuff at all and your grandparents are still alive, you should get all the info that you can. It really helps when you get old and decide that you need to know that stuff! So far most of my ancestors were from England, with a little German, Dutch and French sprinkled in.

Enough of that! Take care!

hey Samantha I have a question. since you live in New York City I was wondering if there were any French Hotels In Times Square especially where the famous ToysRus shop is located.My friend is in New York City for awhile and I was wondering if you would know. so you can email me back at Phoebe13430@yahoo.com. I have a great idea. how about a contest where you answer Great Hotels and Passport to Europe questions and the prize is that the person can spend a week with you in New York. say about in the summer? what do you think of this idea? it's kinda like where you answer a few questions and type in the necessary things for the entry form.here is my email address again if you want to talk to me! ( Phoebe13430@yahoo.com)

Love,
Laura

Hey Sam,
I started watching Great hotels & Passport to Europe on a regular basis over the summer. Once school started, I couldn't do that anymore cuz I kinda had to be there. I was just wondering if you have ever done any hotels here in Wisconsin cuz we have a lot of really good ones up in The Dells. Also, have you ever thought of putting a book together with all of the hotels you've visited? Do you know if Great Hotels will ever come out on DVD?
Thanks
~Kristin

P.S.- How would I go about getting an autographed picture?