Ready for a getaway? Of course you are. It’s May, which means summer is right around the corner, and you’re probably itching to break out of your routine and explore. The days are getting warmer, students are nearly on break, and prime travel season is almost here. It’s an exciting time of year—for you and reality TV.
Sure, a local museum or nearby water park can be a great way to spend a summer day. Maybe you’ve even got a domestic trip planned, like my upcoming getaway to Niagara Falls. But why not dream a little bigger? Picture yourself savoring pine needle pesto in Italy, cheering on a football match in Wales, or joining a record-breaking haka dance in New Zealand. Now that’s a summer story.
If an overseas adventure isn’t in the budget, don’t worry, you can still soak up international vibes from your own couch. Three unscripted series hitting screens this month—Conan O’Brien Must Go, Welcome to Wrexham, and Tucci in Italy—offer a passport to global experiences, no travel required.
Here’s everything you need to know about these globe-trotting shows that let you live vicariously all summer long.
What You Should Watch: If Rick Steves is the dad-like travel expert who makes sure you’re always prepared, whether you’re navigating the labyrinthine streets of Paris or savoring every local dish, then Conan O’Brien is the guy who forgets his map, eats everything he probably shouldn’t, and somehow ends up dancing with the bride at a local wedding. When I need practical travel advice, Rick’s my guy. But if I want to be entertained, Conan’s reality TV show is the ultimate vacation adventure just waiting to happen.
In season one, Conan took us on a whirlwind journey through Norway, Argentina, Thailand, and Ireland. In a short second season, he visits Spain, New Zealand, and Austria. If you loved season one, you’re in for more of the same delightful chaos in season two. Expect to see Conan’s sidekick, producer Jordan Schlansky, continuing his role as the world’s worst travel companion. Watch Conan strut around the Austrian mountains in lederhosen, spinning with all the grace of Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music. And, of course, there’s no shortage of Conan’s trademark self-deprecating humor.
As much as I love Rick Steves, I seriously doubt he’d ever don the traditional uniform and embarrass himself while singing with the Vienna Boys’ Choir or join Taika Waititi and 6,000 others to perform the haka. But that’s exactly why we tune in. Conan’s brand of cringey, hilarious fun is unmatched.
Welcome to Wrexham
Season: 4 Premiere Date: May 15 Available on: FX, streaming next day on Hulu
What You Should Watch: In 2020, Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds made headlines when they purchased Wrexham AFC, the third-oldest football club in the world, located in the small, working-class town of Wrexham, Wales. What followed was a remarkable, heartwarming reality TV story that beautifully captured both the struggles of the club and the resilience of its community. The tale of Wrexham AFC is one of a lovable underdog defying the odds.
Now, three years after Welcome to Wrexham debuted in 2022, you might think that the club’s underdog status would have shifted or that the story would’ve run its course. But nothing could be further from the truth. After back-to-back promotions, season four of the series brings a fresh wave of challenges and new storylines. Wrexham’s rapid rise has led to a host of unexpected complications, from structural issues to financial hurdles. Plus, with football icon and notorious NFL villain Tom Brady (I’m a Broncos fan) serving as a part-owner of Wrexham’s rival, Birmingham City, the stakes have never been higher. The series also continues to shine a spotlight on the vibrant, colorful locals whose lives are intertwined with the club’s journey. Welcome to Wrexham still checks all the boxes of a classic underdog story.
Tucci in Italy
Season: 1 (sort of but not really) Premiere Date: May 18 Available on: National Geographic, streaming next day on Hulu and Disney+
What You Should Watch: When Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy debuted in 2021, it struck a chord with audiences for one simple reason: it was the perfect fusion of a beloved actor and a country he has long adored. Tucci, a native New Yorker with deep Italian roots, has long been known for his love of food, having authored four books on cooking and cuisine. His signature wit and charm, combined with his genuine affection for both Italy and its culinary traditions, made for an unforgettable and insightful television experience.
Tucci’s new series airs on a different network under a new title, but it feels like Tucci Eats Food in Italy 2.0. It takes everything that worked in the original and ups the ante, offering even more breathtaking views of Italy, paired with a storytelling style that feels effortless and captivating. The five-part first season is a visual feast, rich with history, vibrant local personalities, and incredible culinary adventures. The show hooks you from the very first episode, which delves into the unique Trentino-Alto Adige region, where Italian cuisine is beautifully intertwined with Germanic influences.
The best way to understand a country and its people is through its food, and Stanley Tucci is the perfect guide to take you on that journey through Italy’s diverse, delicious landscapes.
Terry Terrones is a Television Critics Association and Critics Choice Association member, licensed drone pilot, and aspiring hand model. When he’s not dreaming of being on Survivor, you can find him hiking in the mountains of Colorado. You can follow him on Twitter @terryterrones.
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