You could say that today's Russia is just as crazy as having pickles with vodka.

Coming up today on Travel with Rick Steve's,

NPR's David Green shares what the people he met on the Trans-Siberian Railroad showed him about living in modern Russia.

Life is hard. It was hard in Soviet times. It's still hard today.

Guides from Portugal return with tips for enjoying the winemaking region around Porto and the Duaro Valley.

And you can stay with these families and the facilities are fantastic.

It's like you're in someone's home, you're taken care of,

and you've got all that beautiful countryside right outside

your window and friends from Scotland recommend visiting a local pub to get to know

the real Scotland but be warned that in Glasgow their style of humor might catch you off guard.

It's one that the Americans take a little while to get used to because it's sarcasm and irony.

It's the playdown.

Get an intimate look at Portugal, Russia and Scotland in the hour ahead.

It's travel with Rick Steves.

A lot of people travel with walls up. Bringing those walls down is what allows you to have those

moments where you truly connect with new people and cultures.

Rosetta Stone can help take down one of the biggest walls, the language barrier.

Rosetta Stone is fun to use, you learn fast, and you can use it on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.

For a special discount, go to Rosetta Stone.com slash Rick Steves.

What do you want to see when you look out the window on your next vacation?

If you think a view of terraced slopes with acres of centuries-old vineyards sounds nice.

Stick around for tips for enjoying the Duro River Valley region of Portugal in just a moment.

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