Andrew Zimmern's Bizarre World (Travel Channel)

If you’ve ever seen Zimmern’s first series, Bizarre Foods, you know that he's an inquisitive traveler who relishes unpalatable delicacies as much as average tourists yearn for breathtaking views. Bizarre World gives Zimmern the chance to take that same insatiable appetite for the unusual to every aspect of a culture, and viewers are consequently treated to fascinating insights into local religious rituals, song, and dance -- in addition to the ingestion of the occasional jungle rat, that is.

What gives the series credibility beyond that of a shock-seeking reality show is Zimmern’s unquestionable respect for every aspect of the cultures he visits. It’s obvious that he does his homework, and he puts every action into context as it relates to his hosts’ religious beliefs, lifestyle, or tribal traditions. Sure, most of it will still seem strange to Americans, but for those who can keep an open mind, there’s a world of knowledge to be gleaned. Just be sure to save this one for tweens and teens, since sensitive younger kids may be upset by scenes of animals being killed or eaten.