Films and programs on Madagascar, China Egypt and Europe

MADAGASCAR

Presentation

Bruce Carter will explore the people, animals, plants and recently discovered sapphire deposits in Madagascar.

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Monday at Distant Lands, 56 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena.

Admission, info: Free. RSVP to (626) 449-3220

MOUNTAINEERING

Slide show

Mountain guide Kurt Wedberg will present images from a Mt. Everest expedition in 2008.

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Griffith Park Visitor Center auditorium, 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, L.A.

Admission, info: Free. Hosted by the Ski Mountaineers Section of the Sierra Club. (310) 809-0792

CHINA

Slide show

Mort Loveman will present “The China Syndrome: A New Look at the People’s Republic.”

When, where: 1 p.m. Wednesday at Roxbury Park Community Center, 471 S. Roxbury Drive, Beverly Hills.

Admission, info: Free. (310) 550-4761

FRANCE

Book signing

Kimberley Lovatowill sign her book “Walnut Wine & Truffle Groves: Culinary Adventures in the Dordogne” and discuss her experiences in the French region.

When, where: 7 p.m. Wednesday at Alliance Francaise de Los Angeles, 10390 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 120.

Admission, info: Free. RSVP to adminafdela@gmail.com

CALIFORNIA

Workshop

Learn about spring day hikes in Southern California, including planning, nutrition, hydration tips and proper footwear and clothing.

When, where: 7 p.m. Wednesday at the REI stores in Arcadia, 214 N. Santa Anita Ave., and Northridge, 18605 Devonshire St.

Admission, info: Free. (626) 447-1062 for Arcadia; (818) 831-5555 for Northridge.

EGYPT

Presentation

Joshua Liberman and Greg Roach of Spirit Quest Tours will show photographs and discuss their upcoming “Luxury Photo Expedition to Egypt.”

When, where: 7 p.m. Thursday at Mystic Journey Bookstore, 1319 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice. Admission, info: Free. RSVP to (310) 399-7070

EUROPE

Workshop

Tips on European travel, including itinerary planning, health, safety, finding hostels and other inexpensive lodging, cultural customs and more.

When, where: 11 a.m. Saturday at the HI-Travel Store, 1434 2nd St., Santa Monica.

Admission, info: Free. (310) 393-3413

Please e-mail announcements at least three weeks in advance of the event date to travel@latimes.com.