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British Explorer Levison Wood travels 5,000 miles across the Middle East on his toughest and most revealing journey yet
MUMBAI: Brand new to Discovery Channel, ARABIA WITH LEVISON WOOD, will join the British explorer as he circumnavigates the Arabian Peninsula; a gruelling 5,000-mile journey that sees him travel through 13 different countries, immersing himself in the lives of locals in a bid to challenge the myths and stereotypes that plague this ancient land. Catch the 5-part series, every Thursday at 9:00 pm on Discovery Channel and Discovery HD World starting September 05.
Having spent several years as an Officer in the British Parachute Regiment serving in Afghanistan and working as a photographer and writer travelling to over 90 countries worldwide, Levison has seen the devastating realities of war first-hand.
This five-part series looks at each country through the eyes of its people, exploring the lives and experiences of a range of vastly differing characters: Syrian grandmothers, Iraqi snipers, swamp dwellers, smugglers, pirates, gunmen, shepherds, drug dealers, freedom fighters and nomads, with each episode reflecting the changing environments and unique communities along the route.
“The show is part of Discovery India’s strategy to focus on explorers and adventurers who are changing the world, “, said, Sai Abishek, Head of Content, Discovery. “The Indian public has appreciated Levison’s journeys including ‘Walking the Himalayas’, ‘Walking the Nile’, ‘Walking the Americas’, ‘From Russia to Iran’ et al.”
ARABIA WITH LEVISON WOOD sees Levison begin his journey on the edge of Arabia in Kurdistan and culminates in Lebanon where he travels from Hezbollah’s heartland to the snowy highlands forging his way through a raging blizzard that almost takes the life of his mountain guide.
It’s through this ambitious expedition that Levison will look beyond the preconceptions people hold, uncovering the stories of both sorrow and hope amid complex politics and the constant threat of violence and war, to better understand this complicated and diverse land.
ARABIA WITH LEVISON WOOD will premiere in India on Discovery Channel and Discovery HD World, 9pm, Thursday, 5th September 2019.
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National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
