Samantha Brown’s travel career took off in 2000 when she left waiting tables behind. Since then, her wanderlust has been unyielding. With 25 years on the road and hosting PBS’s ‘Places to Love’, she continues to connect travelers to destinations they’ll cherish. Her show’s eighth season celebrates this incredible journey.
In her early days, Samantha found traveling over 200 days a year challenging. Shooting iconic sights like castles and cathedrals led to loneliness, she admits. Yet, it also helped her discover her true traveling style—one that’s instinctive, intuitive, spontaneous, and social. This realization set the foundation for ‘Places to Love’. Her focus? The people, neighborhoods, and creating a sense of community engagement.
The People Make the Place
In her own words, Samantha emphasizes that it’s the people who make the place. Her long careers have taught her the value of human connections. “The energy of locals doing their everyday thing really filled me up,” she shares. This understanding informs the heart of ‘Places to Love’, capturing the essence of communities.
Last season, an episode took her to North Carolina’s coast for a seafood boil on Oceania Pier. It was scenes like these that define her show, where the focus lies on blending into local life, not just observing it. Along the way, she’s adopted a boots-on-the-ground scouting approach, exploring beyond the usual tourist spots to uncover hidden gems.
From Hired Host to Owner
In the beginning, Samantha was a “hired host” who showcased well-known attractions with prearranged itineraries. Yet, she felt disconnected. This feeling spurred her to explore on her own, walking through Paris’s real neighborhoods, discovering new restaurants, and embracing the unexpected.
She talks about the evolution of ‘Places to Love’. Initially focused on “what the place is known for”, Samantha now seeks “the unexpected.” Her love for Asheville exemplifies this approach—she explores not just its famed beer spots but the unique amaro spots and local art scenes.
As she moved beyond the typical tourist attractions, Samantha found treasures in unexpected places. In Oklahoma, she visited an art installation at Cadillac Ranch, and in Asheville, she marveled at Jenny Pickens’ artwork on Black Wall Street. For Samantha, travel is about uncovering surprises and embracing dynamic local cultures.
The Charm of Asheville
Asheville holds a special place in Samantha’s heart. It’s a city she’s explored for 25 years, witnessing its evolution from hidden gem to creative hub. “These were the cities that only the cool people knew about,” she recalls, reminiscing her early career days.
Now, Asheville teems with creativity, attracting visitors drawn to its vibrant spirit. Samantha believes its artistic energy remains intact despite its rising popularity. Visiting Asheville feels like a homecoming for her. She’s watched it overcome challenges, like devastating floods, and appreciates its vital role as an “energy center” in the travel landscape.
She proudly highlights Asheville’s transformation over the years. In its growth, she’s watched this once ‘hidden gem’ emerge as a world-renowned destination, with a creativity and vibe that remain unmatched.
Exploring the Unconventional
Samantha is continually amazed by destinations that overturn her expectations. The Jersey Shore, for instance, was a revelation. Initially seen as just another beach destination, it surprised her with rich history and culture.
During her visit, she explored Asbury Park, home to famed rock-and-roll photographer Danny Clinch’s gallery. “It was just a title to me,” Samantha describes the Jersey Shore. But between the beaches and history, she found a unique personal experience.
As she moved further to Cape May, she discovered its incredible history, including the Harriet Tubman Museum. She relished visiting farmers’ markets and farms, offering a taste of local produce. Her Jersey Shore experience underscored the value of looking beyond the surface to find a region’s distinct character.
Championing U.S. Destinations
Samantha believes in highlighting American destinations. This commitment shines through in ‘Places to Love’, especially with her coverage of Route 66. Traveling from St. Louis to Santa Fe, she takes viewers on an unforgettable journey through Oklahoma and Texas.
Exploring Route 66, Samantha immerses herself in local cultures, revealing hidden stories that shape these areas. “Being in the middle of flat prairie land, I understood why people wanted to live there,” she explains, reinforcing her belief that every place has something unique to offer.
Her journey along Route 66 captures a blend of familiarity and surprise. Visiting towns like McLean, she uncovers a barbed wire museum owned by a 90-year-old rancher. Through his stories, she gains insights into regional history and culture, demonstrating how Samantha redefines American travel.
Falling in Love with the Unexpected
Traveling across the U.S., Samantha continuously encounters destinations that astound her. Each new chapter brings surprises, from heartwarming interactions to unforgettable landscapes.
With ‘Places to Love’, Samantha takes viewers to the heart of these places, prioritizing authentic experiences over typical itineraries. She shares her conversations with locals, like discussing barbed wire history in McLean with a rancher.
Samantha’s unique perspective shifts how viewers see the U.S. Her captivating storytelling encourages travelers to rediscover home, fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation. Each mile along Route 66 and beyond reveals a layer of the country’s uncharted beauty.
Impact of Personal Connections
Personal connections lie at the heart of Samantha’s travel experiences. Meeting local artists like Jenny Pickens enriches her journeys, inspiring viewers to seek genuine connections.
The diversity of human stories fuels her passion, whether it’s in Asheville, Texas, or beyond. These interactions infuse ‘Places to Love’ with an authenticity that’s refreshing in the world of travel shows.
Samantha’s encounters reflect her love for uncovering unique personal stories. Each conversation adds depth to her travels, painting a holistic picture of the places she visits. This approach resonates with audiences seeking more than just visual spectacles.
Celebrating a Landmark Season
Season 8 of ‘Places to Love’ marks a momentous occasion for Samantha. Premiering on PBS, it embraces the anniversary special rolling out with a focus on her enduring travel legacy.
The new episodes explore beloved destinations, showcasing both past favorites and new discoveries. Samantha continues to bridge cultures and build narratives that resonate with travelers worldwide.
This landmark season reflects Samantha’s growth and dedication. She’s crafted a narrative that celebrates her journey and the diverse landscapes she’s explored. Her show remains a testament to the art of storytelling and genuine curiosity.
Samantha’s Ever-Evolving Approach
Samantha’s approach to travel is always evolving. She prioritizes personal growth, seeking new challenges and experiences that push her boundaries.
She adapts her methods with every journey—embracing spontaneity, listening to locals, and focusing on deep connections over surface-level exploration.
Her adaptability and curiosity have shaped ‘Places to Love’, making it a beacon of inspiration for travelers. Samantha’s evolution mirrors that of the very destinations she highlights, creating a symbiotic relationship that forms her unique travel style.
Ready for More Adventures
The journey doesn’t stop here for Samantha Brown. As she taps into new chapters, her excitement for what’s ahead is contagious.
Samantha’s passion guides her to new destinations, ensuring ‘Places to Love’ remains a touchstone for aspirational travelers.
With an eye on the future, Samantha’s legacy inspires those seeking adventure and connection. Her journey reflects a universal truth: there’s always more to explore, learn, and love.
Samantha Brown’s incredible 25-year journey in travel continues to inspire. Her relentless curiosity and commitment to authentic experiences resonate with fans worldwide.
‘Places to Love’ encapsulates her passion for discovery and cultural connection, making every episode an invitation to explore with an open heart and mind.
