Rick on Public Radio
Share your comments about Travel with Rick Steves with other travelers and Rick here. Thanks. Learn more about this new program, where it airs and sign-up to receive news and email updates.
Please do not post questions here. For questions about a specific program or topic, contact Producer Tim Tattan
Bourbon
I enjoyed the Whiskey discussion today, however I was very upset when you, a travel show, purported that Bourbon is made in the Appalachian region of Kentucky. I live here. The distilleries are in central Kentucky in the Bluegrass region. You should be more careful with facts about your own country especially on a show where you are putting forth the idea that we should be more culturally connected.
Susie Hurst <email>
Vine Grove, Ky USA 11/14/2009
Whisky
Enjoyed the show on whisky. Highly recommend a trip to the Islay Festival of Whisky and music. Went for the whisky( try a master class) but fell in love with the people.
Neil Alex <email>
San Diego, CA USA 11/14/2009
Four Corners New Mexico
On your recent program on New Mexico the Four Corners got a bum rap. The only mentions of the region was for the Aztec UFO thing or Four Corners Monument - which besides not being the location of the intersection of AZ, CO NM & UT - is well if you are driving by stop but otherwise go to Flagstaff for a more interestingly named intersection in downtown - I forget what it is but it is near the Catholic Church.
Anyhow a trip up to the Four Corner region may include a stop at Chaco Canyon, a world heritage site, then on to Farmington area for Aztec ruins & Salmon ruins. After those a trip to Mesa Verde across the state line in CO and a bit of time in the Durango area. Other things are Bisti Badlands, Navajo Dam and quality fishing waters or go west to Navajo Res. and Shiprock. In winter take a day sking at Purgatory. Take a drive into AZ and see more rock formations and even go to Monument Valley or go back south towards Gallop.
Or if you are from a major metro area in the west (LA, LV, etc) check out where you power comes from: coal strip mines, the amazing sunsets due to pollution.
I know this area is little known but did not deserve the comments made.
I was supprised there were no other comments here maybe otheres are trying to keep this a secret.
Richard <email>
Farmington, m, USA 11/09/2009
Rural Japan
Japan might be "mystical and magical" for visitors, but it's very difficult if you live here.
The overcrowded and overdeveloped cities, the jamming of oneself onto a train like a sardine, the 12 hour workdays and 60 hour workweeks, and the on-going discrimination against foreigners that is an accepted part of life here... no, Japan isn't as magical as your guest made it appear.
I think that's the problem with most travel writing is that the authors are often blinded by the tourist gaze.
Mike DeJong
Tokyo, Japan 11/08/2009
Euro-Centrism
My mother bought me "1,000 Places to See Before You Die" when I lived in Japan. I immediately noticed (as did my Japanese friends) that large countries like Japan and China had very few entries, but a tiny country like Britain had more than the two combined. I'm sure all of the places listed in Britain are great, I'm just saying it should be called "1,000 Euro-Centric Places to Visit Before You Die."
Shannon
Santa Barbara, CA USA 10/31/2009
rural Japan
On Japan: I enjoyed hearing Andy Bender who was our tour leader on a "Tokaido Road" trip. We went to some wonderful rural places (as well as Tokyo and Kyoto). I agree with Andy that Tsumago is a lovely village. We have been to Japan several times (because our son and his family live there), and would like to recommend two rural destinations for others. One is the holy mountain of Koyasan, where one can stay in a number of Buddhist temples and experience the peace of the area. Another area is around Shirakawa-go, where we stayed in a wonderful small Minshuku called Isaburo. Isaburo-san is a gracious hostess and excellent cook. We have lots more to share, but enough for now. Say hi to Andy for me.
Jo Moore <email>
Lake Forest Park, WA USA 10/24/2009
Outsiders in the Muslim World
I recently returned from a trip to Tunisia and listening to this broadcast again explained so many things.
As a Caucasian traveling alone, I was constantly approached by people eager to chat, and was invited to coffee almost daily. Twice I was invited to dinner and later to spend the night at my new friend's home, and once to a wedding! All in the span of two weeks!
This program also explained a lot of questions I had about "the gay lifestyle" and how things that, as a gay male, I would consider gay seemed to be acceptable in the straight community. Holding hands and close physical contact being two of many examples.
Chris
Ohio USA 10/13/2009
Rome
Jason, one of the tour guides you suggest in Rome, was amazing. We literally called him from a train on our way from Cinque Terre to Rome, requesting assistance seeing the Sistine Chapel the following morning. He delivered and then some. Our tour guide, Sandra, was incredibly nice, very knowledgeable and worked out several gnarly details for us at the very last minute. I highly recommend Jason and his group. He went above and beyond.
Sybil McLain
Nashville, TN USA 10/12/2009
Provence
We rented a lovely little two bedroom house (built in 1704) in Mouries. The town is near Arles and Avignon and in the olive oil area of Provence. Although small, it had 5 patisseries and we enjoyed a different one each morning. Not as interesting as some of the well know places, but very central and probably cheaper. ($800/week)
Terry <email>
Portland, OR USA 10/11/2009
Scents
I always enjoy your peregrinations via OPB but the program with Ms Lyttleton on scents was especially interesting. Since I often walk with two Schipperkes who, I am sure, think I cannot smell anything, the program set me to wonder how their nervous systems must process odor memories. Theirs is a world we cannot imagine.
Norman Cutshall <email>
Salem, OR USA 10/01/2009
Scent Trail/More Kindness ? Musk Deer
Rick- I have enjoyed your books and travel shows for years.
However, I was disturbed to hear that neither you, nor Ms. Lyttelton, seemed aware that importation of Musk Deer parts to the US is illegal.
Real musk grains come from a gland of the very rare and endangered Musk Deer
Since each deer is killed for its single gland, the title of your show seems a bit ironic.
Nearly all perfumes now use synthetic musks.
Please encourage aware and kind travelers!
Karen
Portland , OR USA 09/28/2009
Washington DC radio broadcast
Hello Rick, I’m a big fan of yours and I recently listened to your broadcast about Washington, DC on July 4th. I have lived in DC (Kalorama Triangle) for the past 18 years, so I was very curious to learn what your suggestions were for seeing the sites in the city.
Overall, for first time travelers to the Capital, I thought it was good. However, I was a little disappointed because when you give us guidance about other destinations you always encourage people to “get off the beaten track”, and discover the real Paris, or London, or Rome, etc. In, DC, though, you focused almost solely on the Mall. Recently, I was on a business trip to Idaho Falls, Idaho and a gentleman asked me where I was from and when I told him he said, “Does anyone actually live in Washington, DC?” I think it’s important for people to know that, in addition to being the nation’s Capital, the District of Columbia is a living city, home to almost 600,000 residents. Please consider doing another show at some point and encourage people to explore DC beyond the Mall and visit some of the many wonderful and distinctly different neighborhoods and sites within them that the city has to offer. We have the wonderful and quaint neighborhood on Capital Hill with its Eastern Market; the interesting and quirky neighborhood of Dupont with, amongst other things, the Phillips Collection; the stately and majestic homes and embassies in Kalorama Sheridan; and, of course, the wonderful 19th century residences in Georgetown, to name just a few.
I couldn’t agree with you more that travel broadens our minds and you more than almost anyone have done a great job to educate people about that. Thanks for all of your hard work.
Walter S.
Washington , DC USA 09/28/2009
Travel Kindness
What a great show topic! My husband and I visited Ireland for the first time this last March. After traveling 22 hours to Dublin from Portland, OR, then another hours drive to Kilkenny (on the other side of the road, no less) we discovered that we had the wrong address written down for our B&B. We were driving in circles for what felt like hours, very close to biting each others' heads off!
Finally we admitted defeat and decided to knock on a door. I had barely touched my knuckles to the wood when the door flung open and a lovely Irish woman invited us into her kitchen. Long story short, she made us coffee, pulled out her phonebook, called the B&B and got us directions.
We were blown away - what a fantastic start to our trip!
Jennifer W.
Portland, OR USA 09/28/2009
Sponsoring International Visitors in the US
I have always loved Rick's books and so glad I discovered the podcast. I am sponsoring an International Fellow from Albania (the husband is a student at a military senior service school) and realized I knew next to nothing about it (except its location) until I became their sponsor. This made me think you might do a show on sponsorship opportunities whether it be something like sponsoring international military officers or college students. This is a great way to get an inside view of a country, its culture, and people without leaving the U.S. (though a benefit to sponsoring is that if you can travel - you will have a local tour guide).
Karen Finkenbinder <email>
Carlisle, PA USA 09/28/2009
Wheelchairs
As a wheelchair user and avid traveler, I must tell you all that Rick's " Easy Access Europe" is filled with pertinent information for those of us that roll while others stroll. Lodging, transportation, Events, Sights, Times of easy access, where to go, and too many European links to assistance in individual places to mention. This is a comprehensive guide that I am using as a reference source for my upcoming trip back to Europe, where I livved for 3 years in the 60's and returned to later in life. This will be my first trip back in a chair, but I made it down the entire length of the Grand Canyon (225 miles 12 days)in rafts and kayaks, and after that Europe is a pice of cake! Get out there Wheelers, Roll
On!!
Bruce Gibbings <email>
Visalia, CA USA 09/26/2009
wheelchairs in europe
i guess i will never go to europe because i am confined to a wheel chair why dont you ever show people confined to wheel chairs. it upsets me to not see people like me on ur show
bretha williams
davenport , ia USA 09/21/2009
Zaatar Days & Henna nights
I enjoyed the interview so much. Guests were well informed. Thanks to Steve for spreading the good word and spirit of peace.
By the way, the translation of your guest name: Maleeha is beautiful and Maqsoud is an immanent person who is being sought
Regards
Mokhtar
Dr. Mokhtar Maklad <email>
Westerville, , OH USA 09/20/2009
Outsiders in the Muslim World
I greatly appreciate the open and positive attitude almost always displayed on your show. However, your guest Maliha expressed several views that I felt were misleading. She appeared more intent on portraying a picture of Islam that she thought acceptable to Westerners than she was interested in being accurate.
For example, she mentioned that many Muslims find no problem with drinking alcohol. The Koran clearly forbids drinking alcohol in several places. Most Muslims acknowledge this. She implied that there were few, if any, "rules" in Islam. She attributed the rules shaping religious practices to the governments of Islamic countries, and not to Islam itself. There are certainly rules in Islam.
More importantly, we should not disregard the many Islamic men and women who are fighting against the restrictive clothing often imposed upon women in Islamic countries. We should recognize that this manner of dressing is not widely preferred by Muslim women, but is instead imposed upon them - according to rules (which your guest purported do not exist) and are often associated with other, more severe, limitations to their rights and freedom.
To present the situation differently does a great disservice to those struggling to improve their lives.
Ali
Miami, FL USA 09/20/2009
Mexico City
I was excited to accidentally tune into your program on Mexico City as I was driving to Portland, Oregon today. Thank you for helping inform travelers about this wonderful and often maligned city. I am a fan of both Jim Johnston and David Lida's work. I have yet to finish "First Stop in the New World" but have enjoyed picking away at sections in my own order.
I am another example of a once hesitant visitor who fell in love with the city. I now live there a good part of the year. We are fortunate to meet many first time visitors to Mexico City and almost all of them find a beautiful, friendly, city that far exceeds their expectations.
Thank you for spreading the word.
Craig Hudson
Mexico City, DF Mexico 09/13/2009
mexico city sounds npr radio
It was nice hearing about Mexico city. Seattle had a favorite street musician people enjoyed hearing and seeing,
http://www.historylink.org/index.cfm?DisplayPage=output.cfm&file_id=8848
This culture needs help to regain that enjoyable beautiful aspect that adds extra to life.
kat
seattle, wa USA 09/12/2009
Mis-identification of setting of
I couldn't believe my ears today when one of your guests from Mexico City said that "Porgy and Bess" was set in New Orleans! Oh, my, no! The fictional "Catfish Row" is modeled after Cabbage Row in Charleston, South Carolina.
Patrice Lambourne
Bakersfield, CA USA 09/12/2009
Interview about
I listened to the interview about "septics" on NPR today. It is an example of one of the WORST interviews I have ever heard. The interviewer plays all the parts. The expert is not allowed to speak - the interviewer always interrupted, took concepts that were clear and muddied them, got stuff plain wrong.
It failed in communicating information. I knew the political structure of UK/GB, etc. before the interview. I knew less afterwards. And no GB is not the mainland/island. GB is England/Scotland/Wales. There are many small islands like the Hebrides that are part of Great Britain. It is not a simplification it is simply incorrect.
Christopher Bird <email>
Irving, TX USA 09/06/2009
English Language Discussion, Septics Companion
Rick, Not sure if this is the correct place to post this; but, Anorak is an Inuit (eskimo) word for the heavy winter coat..
Dave Schwartz <email>
Tualatin, OR USA 09/06/2009
Bob's your uncle
Rick- I heard your interview with an Englishman today during which both of you expressed ignorance of the origin of the phrase "Bob's your uncle." I can't believe, that as a Seattleite, you don't know that the saying originated not in England, but in Canada. "Bob" is a reference to the first Canadian prime minister, Robert McDonald. If Bob is your uncle, everything is ok for you.
Rick, you really should try traveling north of Seattle for a change, instead of just east, west, and south.
Wayland
Wayland Eheart <email>
Champaign, IL USA 09/05/2009
Thank you
I just wanted to say a big 'Thank you' to Rick for his informative travel guides. As a single gal, I have never been less afraid to travel through Europe! Why, you ask? Because you offer everything I need to feel comfortable outside the box when traveling. Your suggestions have saved me hours/days of wasting valuable travel time because I know before I get there, what to see, where to stay and how to interact with the locals! England was a blast and I have made many new friends. My next trip will be to Ireland/Scotland and between your DVD's and guide books, I am now a confident single traveler! Thank you again for opening up a whole new world to me!
Kathryn Block <email>
Coeur d'Alene, Idaho USA 09/03/2009
Rick's pet peeve
I just listened to the creation of your radio show. That was so much fun! Rick mentioned that his one pet peeve was people standing in the aisle when passengers are trying to board a plane. He would have loved to be on one of our trips.
My husband works for a large corporation that employs "Road Warriors" - people who live on the road 50 weeks a year. These are people that LIVE in airports. We were all leaving a meeting at the same time and filled a plane, conscience of a storm that was brewing over the airport. We got in the plane, they closed the dorrs, and the flight attendent got on the intercom. "Ladies and Gentlemen, I just want to say that I have NEVER seen such an efficient boarding in my 10 years of flying. Because of that, we are leaving 15 minutes early and we will beat the storm."
I guess practice makes perfect.
Claire
Haddonfeild, NJ USA 09/03/2009
roaming and gemutlikeit
hey Rick\Tim, Im a long time podcast listener from Down under. Just some info on mobile phones and travelling, do you know about travelsim? Its a fantastic system, where you can roam from country to country with the same mobile number for pretty much the same fixed price(about 0.60 USD per minute)It routes your calls through the internet in Estonia, similar to skype.Check out travelsim.com.au or travelsim.com , it is ideal for somebody like yourself that crosses borders all the time, you will love it! I travel 2-3 months of every year fixing hail damaged cars all around the globe, and i really appreciate your podcasts, i have heard every single one of them, and your production is really first class. cheers simon booth, Sydney ,Australia (actually Gmunden, Austria at the moment)
PS: I googled (gemutlikeit) and your blog about was the second hit. i think thats very...gemutlikeit!
Simon Booth <email>
Gmunden, Austria (nee Sydney, Australia), NSW Australia 08/30/2009
hotel aberdeen, roma
I took my daughter to Rome two weeks before she was to study there for fall quarter last year. We got to the airport and Hotel Aberdeen had sent a driver for us. After a descriptive ride that showed us so many amazing sights we arrived at the hotel at 7am. The room was set up, the windows open (love the shutters) and we were invited to eat breakfast! Best cappuccino ever! I left after the first week and my daughter stayed for a week on her own. They took excellent care of her, also. Hotel Aberdeen is a quiet and charming hotel. The professionalism and kindness of the whole staff was a blessing and made us love Rome even more!
Sonja and Serrah <email>
seattle, wa USA 08/29/2009
The excavations under St. Peter
I just listened to the Rome episode and wanted to let you know that it's actually become very easy to 'visit' the excavation area under St. Peter's. You can do it right now on your computer. The Vatican recently launched a 'virtual visit of the Necropolis' page on its web site: http://www.vatican.va/various/basiliche/necropoli/scavi_english.html. There seem to be a few tombs left to add, and it's a little bit frustrating to navigate, but other than that it's quite nice.
A
USA 08/27/2009
Skype on your ipod
With an Ipod touch or Iphone, an Iphone headset w/mic (this works with both and is available from Apple for $29.00) a wifi connection and the skype application you can call home(or anywhere else) for pennies. I'll take that over $1.50 plus per minute with a cell or the hassle of calling cards any day.
Kathy <email>
Anaheim, Ca USA 08/26/2009
International calling
It's complicated, but by using Google Voice with Talkster, you and your contacts can call each other for free, mobile or land line, between any of the countries served by Talkster.
http://www.google.com/support/forum/p/voice/thread?tid=12923debb45a4ce8&hl=en
http://www.google.com/support/forum/p/voice/thread?tid=1d1c33238907cd94&hl=en
https://www.google.com/voice/
http://www.talkster.com/
Greg Krohne <email>
Warner Robins, GA USA 08/23/2009
Phone card
Hi
Phone card in UK you buy at the post office. You can call cheap from UK all over
Anders
SEATTLE, Washington USA 08/22/2009
Budapest Memories
I traveled to Budapest in 1988 during my first backpack trip to Europe. Partly due to Rick's recommendation in "Europe Through the Back
Door," and because while I was in Vienna, I learned they had the loosened visa restrictions and you no longer needed to plan before leaving the states.
The strongest memories I have of that trip were:
1) At that time you were supposed to get a room by queueing up at an official office in the train station. A man came up to me and two other travelers saying, "Pssst, want a room. I got Swedish girls next door." It sounded too cliche not to follow up. After following him through the warren of streets in Buda, I found a very nice set of rooms. We met his parents (whose beds they were, who went to stay in their place in the country for the duration of our stay). And the Swedish girls (backpackers who had arrived just the day before), were fun to talk to at dinner and were amused that they had become part of the selling process.
2) Lines for everything and men who wandered around the streets coming up to tourists muttering, "change money, change money"... the black market was definitely the best rates.
3) There was a "Museum of Communism" that was all in Hungarian, but still interesting even though I could only barely understand the exhibits.
4) You were required to spend all your money before leaving the country (couldn't change it back) and I bought peaches from a vendor at the train station... they turned out to be the best, sweetest peaches I have tasted to this day.
Keith C
Seattle, WA USA 08/19/2009
Budapest show & food
Wow, I’m sitting here listening to your guests talk about Hungarian food, and it’s bringing in back to mind all the great things my grandmother cooked (and my dad still does). My dad’s family (Szabos) escaped in the middle of the night from Hungary as the tanks rolled in 1956.
e.e. cummings has a great poem about it that’s still relevant now: http://sandefur.typepad.com/freespace/2009/06/thanksgiving-1956-by-ee-cummings.html
Anyway, on to my short list of Hungarian food…
Solona – salted pork fat rolled in paprika, served on toasted rye so it melted like butter
Rakat-krumpli – sour cream with eggs; potatoes and kielbasa baked in a dish with tons of paprika
Hurka – liver & rice sausage
Rabbit paprikas – creamy paprika, enough said
Dense lard biscuits with bacon (can’t remember the name)
Stewed gooseberries and sorrel (seemed to be an affinity for the tart with fruits & veg)
And, of course, many salted roasted ducks, pickled pigs feet in gelatin, and sweets like rolled breads with poppy seeds or a walnut sugar mix sliced thinly.
I have to go cook something now…bye!
Ian C
St. Helen's, OR USA 08/19/2009
Budapest
We began traveling to Budapest two years ago because we have friends there. The major tourist destinations:Castle District,Danube cruises are fun, but the most fun is getting into the small districts. My major interest is Roma (gypsy) music and the education of Roma children in the former Communist block countries.
Suggestions: The Terror Haza-a museum dedicated to the outrages of both the Nazi and Communist eras; The old Synagogue and the Budapest Ghetto; the Sunday flea markets where beautiful lace and Nazi medals are on sale; ride the trams; ride the metro. Eat Langos-they're really bad for you and yummy. Go to the Godor Klub-always has great music. We stay at the Alfa Art outside of Budapest on the Danube (Duma) and ride the bus and the Hev (suburban trains) in and out of the city. Realize that even if you know a lot of languages Hungarian is different. If you like Roma music, Budapest is wonderful-Etnorom, Romano Drom, Ternipe, Syivasi Gypsy Band and the fabulous Karavan Familia who really are a family. Check online for concert dates. Also there is a great airline that flies in and out of central and eastern Europe named Wizz Air. They have transport into town and cheap hotels as well.
What a joy to be able to talk about Budapest-
syia
mev
Mary Evelyn Porter <email>
Chula Vista, CA USA 08/15/2009
Hungarian desserts -- sour cherry
Hi, I have just listened to your "Budapest" radio program, tried to call in, but it was obviously recorded, so I couldn't. I am a Hungarian who moved to the U.S. 15 years ago, at age 33, and while I don't miss "langos" and most Hungarian fatty/meaty dishes, I do miss my favorite Hungarian dessert: meggyes retes - sour cherry strudel. I lived in the San Francisco Bay area for 7 years, in Princeton, NJ for a year, and in San Diego for the last 7, but have never been able to find sour cherries in the U.S. Any suggestion? Thanks: Helga
Helga Hatvany <email>
San Diego, CA USA 08/15/2009
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
I recently returned from a month-long stay in Italy. Before going I bought your Italy book. Much to my surpise, you did not cover the specific area I was traveling to - Reggio Emilia, approx. 70 Km from Bologna.
I arrived knowing one person - and she was in the hospital. On June 29 I arrived in RE with a reservation at the Anna e Ricci B&B and a tentative schedule for language lessons at Reggio Lingua.
The B&B - Marcella, the proprietor/owner is fantastic! The accomodations - well priced and very, very comfortable... centrally located in the old city center. Reggio Lingua - Daniela & Paola ... amazing. With a few hours of lessons I had enough Italian to get around very comfortably.
The people made the place. I kept meeting people and soon I had a network of new friends I explored the region of Emilia Romagna and more: Cingue Terre, Carpi, Pietra Bismantova, Modena, Parma, Verona (I attended a performance of Aida @ the Arena!)Bologna, Rimini and more.
Except for Bologna, Modena and Parma I encountered very few tourists - American or otherwise. I had the best food (traditional) and wines (Lambrusco, sangiovese, table wines, etc.) and attended countless festivals and listened to jazz, blues, classical as well as traditional music - all because of tips or invitations from my new friends. In July, the region is alive with festivals and entrance to most was no charge - they were held in public spaces.
I met my friends families, ate at their tables and found everyone great hosts and just all around fun!
The people maximized my experience. Wonderful - each and every one!
Your advise is spot on: Enjoy what the area gives you - small museums (the wine museum in Cinque Terre), small cathedrals with a spontaneous tour hosted by one of the parishioners - be open to seeing things as they are - not as they are not. They are simple, yes - but many are full of wonderful stories, surpises.... and more.
The time does not have to be totally scripted. Relax and enjoy the rhythm of the place (stores and restaurants closed in RE from 12:30 to 2:30 pm during the week. I didn't complain - I learned the art of taking a nap. I also did something I don't do at home: I took the bus, I took the regional train - public transportation was great - comfortable and reliable! Did I mention walking - yes, walking, walking and more walking. Or better yet, a bicycle. Getting out and about was easy - and fun Yes - venture off the beaten path. Meeting new people has its risks of course, but I found the rewards are 'priceless'.
Enjoy!
Sheila
Sheila E Griffie <email>
Cornelius, OR USA 08/09/2009
Budget eating - picnics
I was driving home listening to the end of the program today (8/8) with discussion of eating on a budget, when a caller recommended the idea of picnics. The segment ended with you playing the chorus of Teddy Bear's Picnic. In the early 50's (when I was quite small) we lived in England for several years during my dad's Air Force duty there. The Teddy Bear's Picnic was one of my favorite songs, although it was a bit scary because of one verse
"If you go out in the woods today,
You'd better not go alone.
It's lovely out in the woods today,
But safer to stay at home."
That song, and our own family travels while my dad served in various countries (and states), brought back lots of memories. I pulled into the driveway at home with a big grin on my face.
Pat Reimann
Dallas, TX USA 08/08/2009
Backstreet Istanbul
I was in Istanbul summer of 2007,it was at the end of a 6 week holiday in Europe. Having seen all the blockbuster sights, I decided to experience how the locals spend their free time. This my sound like anathema to Rick's philosophy but I went to the mall.Istanbul has some of the biggest in Europe. It's as you would expect, chain stores that you could find anywhere in Europe, fast food and an anywhere-in-the-suburbs atmosphere. Strangely though, the experience confirmed my belief that no matter where we live, we are more alike than different. Seeing all the happy families shopping and eating their Mcdonald's made me feel at home.
Garret Sanchez <email>
Chicago, IL USA 08/05/2009
npr last Sunday
Thanks so much for the great interview!
I really learned a lot about Paris. It's great to hear two people with such deep understanding about the French culture discuss. I can't wait to go myself now, I feel so much better prepared.
Jeff
Hanover, PA USA 07/27/2009
a Paris gift
A good gift I'll bring folks home from France is jars or tubes of regular Dijon mustard from Monoprix (Amora or any other 'ordinary' grocery-store brand) - The 'plus forte,' if possible (though even the bland 'moins forte' is still noticeably stronger than, say Grey Poupon). It'll be leagues better than any Dijon mustard made in the US, it's cheap as chips, and the taste evokes France beautifully for those who've been.
Clay C <email>
Miami Beach, FL USA 07/12/2009
Paris
I enjoy the program on Paris. I have a suggestion for enjoying the city. Attend a performance at the Comedie Francaise. Ticket can be bought at the last minute. Remember Moliere.
Steve Hallgren <email>
Stillwater, OK USA 07/11/2009
Paris show: Dehlerin
re Paris show; there's a fantastic wholesale restaurant supply store in the 1ere (first) arrondisement called Dehlerin. They've been there for more than 150 years. Absolutely amazing place and a super place to go pick up a souvenier or two that you'll use for the rest of your life.
John Brooks <email>
Seattle, WA USA 07/11/2009
Paris
In the 7th, No. 16 Rue Valadon, Hotel Valadon is the place to stay, right around the corner from Rue Cler. Very good value including a delicious breakfast with homemade preserves made by the owner, Victor Orsenne! Only 12 rooms but one is set up for families.
S J Snyder
Bainbridge Island, WA USA 07/11/2009
More tips for visiting Washington D.C.
Really enjoyed the show on D.C. - I've lived in the area for over 10 years, and I thought your guests offered great advice. Here are a few more tips from a "local."
- Another airport in the area is Baltimore-Washington International (BWI). Travelers will find it is just as close as Dulles, and if you're coming in during the week, it's easier to get into the city from there. It's a short train ride (about 20 minutes) on the commuter rail (MARC) and costs just $8. You'll find great travel deals flying through BWI, particularly on Southwest Airlines, which uses that airport as a hub.
- My favorite memorial near the Mall is the FDR Memorial. You'll learn about history of the time, and see many soothing fountains. It's especially lovely in the evening, and makes for a pleasant walk as you check out other sites around the tidal basin - Jefferson, Lincoln, WWII, Korean, and Vietnam Memorials.
- After a busy day of sightseeing, you might want to spend your evening taking in DC culture. There are a number of excellent local theaters (like the Shakespeare Theatre), orchestras and dance companies. You can catch touring Broadway shows at the Warner Theater and National Theater. And of course there is plenty to see and do at the Kennedy Center - which is worth a tour itself!
- Do a little preparation ahead of time to understand DC's Metro subway system, because it will be a great friend to you while you visit. Metro will get you just about anywhere in town you'd want to go except for Georgetown. And here's a little tip - when riding the escalators in and out of the system, remember "stand on the right, walk on the left." It will save you some dirty looks from busy commuters!
- DC sometimes gets an unfair reputation that local residents are unfriendly - but I swear we're not! Don't hesitate to ask someone on the street for directions if you get lost. We're really used to it, and happy to help you enjoy your visit.
Jason Lott <email>
Cheverly, MD USA 07/08/2009
taxation w/o representation in DC
As past residents of DC, my wife and I enjoyed hearing you talk about it on the radio the other day. You made a point about the slogan on the license plates, but were mistaken in comparing DC's position to that of Puerto Rico. While neither jurisdiction has a voting representative in Congress, Puerto Ricans do not pay federal income taxes. They also do not need to have their appropriations of locally-raised taxes approved by Congress.
David Hughart
Seattle, WA USA 07/08/2009
Kids in Washington DC
We just returned from taking our 9- and 12-yr old daughters to D.C. We spent a day taking a ferry to and from Mt. Vernon and enjoyed it very much. They liked seeing George's house, but we really liked the multi-media presentations in the modern exhibit space -- especially the film with its vibrating seats and other fun special effects. If you've been walking the kids' feet off, it's a good way to get some scenic down-time on the boat, though we were somewhat constrained by the sailing schedule. If we did it again we'd take the boat "to" and find another way to get back on our own time.
June
Portland, OR USA 07/06/2009
Mobile Phones in Europe
As for tips on using mobile phones in Europe, I found one of the least expensive options is to take an unlocked three or four band phone und buy a sim card at a supermarket or postoffice. I am travelling to Austria on a regular basis and I am taking my unlocked US Sony Ericson phone (I use T-Mobile in the US) and purchased a sim card and prepaid minutes from YESS, available at Postoffices and HOFER Supermarket or any 'TABAK/TRAFIK' (small shops selling newspapers & cigarettes, etc). The service works in many other European countries, albeit with roaming charges. YESS also has wireless internet access as well as prepaid phone packages. I am sure there are similar options in all European countries. Check out www.YESS.at, which is in German only but I am glad to answer any questions you may have.
Inge vanRosmalen <email>
Fort Lauderdale, Florida USA 06/07/2009
Fred Plotkin's comments on May 30th radio show
Fred Plotkin described Finland as an "inbred country" since we don't have a huge foreign/immigrant population. So this is what American liberals have come to! And Rick didn't say a word about the rude choice of words. I guess Fred and Rick are not happy until every European country loses all of its ethnicity, is ridden with immigrants and basically looks just like the USA. I will not be listening to your show anymore.
Paivi
Atlanta, Ga USA 06/06/2009
June 6 program
Listening to your program when some asked about seeing Croatia and you even talked about driving down from Venice. You did not even mention one of the most beautiful spots in Europe, along the way. A short side trip is a discovery: lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice. (Plitvice National Park, Yugoslavia).
Frank Peterson <email>
ventura, ca USA 06/06/2009
Castles in France
Rick: I've wondered for years why you have not featured the Chateax/Castles through the Loire Valley in France? There are so many to visit, and we've found we make Chambord our home base - staying at the Hotel du Grand Michel, which is right across the drive from the fabulous Chateau Chambord. We always add at least one new Chateau.Last year, we visited Cheverney, in which the family still lives on the upper floor. But how about talking about gorgeous Chenonceaux, Villandry, Ambois, Blois, Angers, and of course, the "grand-daddy" Chambord. And..we've always found the drive along the Loire wonderful, lovely climate, relaxing pace, and oh, don't forget the Clos Luce', the last home of Leondardo DeVinci!
Virginia Burgert <email>
Battle Ground, WA USA 05/24/2009
Castles
I must take issue with Rick's comments that there is not much to attract Western tourists to Romania. I have been twice in the past year and a half on volunteer vacations, but have taken time to travel around on the weekends with an excellent guide and on my own after my volunteering. Bran castle is what Romania is best known for, and like Rick I did not find it to be the best castle I'd ever seen. However, Sighsoara, Sibiu and Brasov in the Transylvania area are well worth seeing. The monastaries in the northeast corner of Romania around Iasi, are wonderful examples of fresco paintings inside and out. Timisoara and Cluj in the west are lovely vibrant cities. I hope to return to do more sightseeing including the Maramures area and Hunedoara Castle.
There are good small hotels. The food is good and best of all, it is inexpensive to travel there. You are missing a lot if you bypass Romania.
Sally Norton <email>
Bothell, WA USA 05/23/2009
Youth Travel in Guatemala
It was so wonderful to hear the story of the Global Visionaries program in Guatemala. I went to Guatemala for three and a half weeks before my senior year in high school and I just wanted to stress the great impact that this trip had on me and my companions. We went all around the country, starting in Antigua and moving then to Panajachel, La Escuela de la Montana, Xela (Quetzaltenango), Rabinal, Tikal (for one night) and finally spending one last night in Guatemala City.
Since my group visited a few months before the national elections, we got a unique taste of the political climate in this country which less than two decades ago was still involved in a civil war.
While our group did some manual labor with other Guatemalans through Habitat for Humanity, our main goal was to learn Spanish and to hear the stories of the people themselves. We went to two different language schools - one in a rural area and one in a large city - and connected with host families there. When we went to Rabinal, we visited several organizations dedicated to bringing to light the atrocities of the war under Rios Montt.
What stayed with me most from this trip were the many people who came to us and asked us to remember them and to take their stories back to the United States.
Thanks for bringing back great memories of people and places and chicken buses!
Charlotte
Seattle, WA USA 05/23/2009
Insider's Guide to Paris
Rick, We're great fans of yours and appreciate all the hard work you've done for all of us. I find that your bringing your co-authors in on your programs is a wonderful idea.
We have been living on our 1921 dutch barge in France for the past 9 years. The wonderful part of this adventure is that we can travel all over France. We've been all over Burgundy, Vosges, Alsace and Lorraine to name a few areas.
We are currently moored in one of the suburbs of Paris for the past 2 years. I listened to a few of your podcasts especially the one with your coauthor and sensed a few instances where I found you were too opinionated about a few things. ie: #1) Rue Cler, you do love the market but there are so many others that are more wonderful. I for one, LOVE the one in the 6th on Raspail. The diversity of products AND the fact that these vendors are selling not from store fronts, but from their stands as in ancient days is more interesting for me. PLUS you've got Le Bon Marché with it's wonderful food court and Polaine bakery on Cherche Midi with it's yummy little luncheon spot next door. (be prepared to wait but it's worth it!) #2) Your bias for the Marais district. In this particular podcast a person called in about taking her boyfriend to Paris for the first time and when you asked where she was staying and she replied the Latin Quarter you went on and on about how great the Marais is and actually talked down the Latin Quarter. I find this off-base as there are WONDERFUL streets and alley ways in the latin quarter that are much more charming than the Marias. And, if anyone gets bored they just need to look up at the magnificent buildings in the Latin Quarter. There's so much history there, there's the Luxembourg gardens and the small rues around St. Sulpice with wonderful little restaurants, and the secret church of St. Etienne. Well, I could go on and on. Yes, the Marias is interesting, but it really is not all that you cranked it up to be. It's overpriced, filled with yuppies, and unfortunately, LOTS of bums!
I think it would have been good for you to have turned to your co-host and asked him to describe the Latin Quarter and the Marais as he did at the beginning of your show. When you named an arrondisement on he described the character of the Quartier.
Just a couple of comments that I hope will help you cover the magical city of Paris.
Lisa
Lisa Gerardin
Ojai, CA USA 05/16/2009
Fall 2008 trip to Normandy
Our trip to Normandy (by way of Windsor,London, Versailles & Paris) was more wonderful than we dreamed it could possibly be thanks to Rick's tour books and his encouragement that there is a sucessful traveler in each of us! Please add Angelina's to your list of special places to eat...the hot chocolate is out of this world! In Honfleur we stayed at LaCour Sainte Catherine and traveled through the countryside to the Normandy beaches (our only travel by car)...wonderful hospitality, delicious food...our stay could not have been better. Everywhere we encountered friendly helpful world neighbors (even during rush hour in Paris trying to make our transfer to the RER and find our hotel in Versailles!).
Pam and Mike Chaplin <email>
Ferndale, WA USA 05/15/2009
Iran Series
Just finished watching your 6 Parts of Iran. What a fantastic job you did on this. I lived in Iran (my husband worked for AT&T and we were over there from 1977 to the beginning of 1979) and absolutely loved our time there. We were to stay 3 years, but our
time was cut short by the revolution. Our two sons were 10 and 13 when we went over. They still talk about the experiences and the good times they had there. It was fantastic seeing familiar scenes in North Tehran (where we lived), in Isfahan (where we visited), as well as other places. Iranians were (and I am sure still are) wonderful, gracious hosts/hostesses. We became good friends with many of the Iranians. Thank you for putting together such an enjoyable show.
Berta Pettis <email>
Roswell, GA USA 05/12/2009
Using mileage plan miles
Hello,
Heard Rick on the Radio last Saturday tell people not to bother with using accrued miles from mileage plans. I am traveling to New Zealand in Sept and just used half my air miles for my husband and myself to travel business class using air miles. I found dealing with the United mileage Plus to be an unexpected wonderful experience. I told her that Rick Steves said that it was not worth using travel miles. She said that is because most people want to use their miles for traveling the most busiest seasons of the year like holidays and non school periods. So I would just like to say tell Steve to use their airmiles in non busy times of the year and you can redeem them easier. I was truly surprised! I hope you find this helpful.
Kathy Goodwind <email>
Seattle , WA USA 05/08/2009
Arthur Frommer
I really enjoyed listening to your show with Arthur Frommer. It was neat seeing how travel can really broaden one's perspective. Keep up the good work.
Robb
Atlanta, GA USA 05/04/2009
Traveling and hearing great music
Rick,
Listening to your program today about traveling in Europe and finding great music opportunities. When my husband and I travel, before we even know "where" we are going, we first of all look at the music offerings. We just traveled to Australia, because we were able to get tickets to the Sydney Opera House to see/hear an opera. That was the deciding factor in our traveling "down under." That's the way to travel.
David Abernethy-Deppe <email>
Palm Springs, CA, US USA 05/03/2009
Frequent Flier Programs
I enjoy your radio show each week, but was disappointed to hear you and Mr. Frommer suggest that frequent flier programs were not worth the effort. A few years ago, a friend and I went trekking for two weeks in China. We were able to use my miles for both tickets, cutting the cost of the trip in half. Just recently, I geve enough miles to my college daughter and her three friends to book tickets to a training class they needed to go to. Yes, it can be difficult to use the miles, but if you are able to plan ahead and be somewhat flexible, the miles can save you quite a bit of money.
Jill <email>
Cedar Falls, IA USA 05/03/2009
travel with kids
Not to Europe, but my experience with jetlag...
We went to Hawaii (Big Is.) over Thanksgiving week with a 1.5 y.o. who never adjusted to the time change from Seattle. With the rest of the family snoozing in our condo I would haul out at 3-4 am every morning and go hiking on the golf greens, on the beaches and paved paths through the lava flows in the lovely night air with toddler in backpack. I got great outdoor exercise without burning in the sun, and we bonded over stars and waves in the moonlight.
So my advice on jetlag: don't fight it too much, just plan for and make the best of it.
And pack a flashlight!
Ramsey
Seattle, WA USA 05/03/2009
Cover Russia!
Hello, I love listening to your radio archives and I notice that you haven't covered Russia at all. I'd like to hear about it, you should consider it as a topic.
Chris
WI USA 04/28/2009
Hunger and poverty in the world
Thanks for bringing us a discussion of poverty and hunger. David Beckmann from Bread for the World and the woman from Kenya were able to give some hopeful information about how there might be an end of extreme hunger in our world, both here in the USA and abroad!
Mary Ritter
San Leandro, CA USA 04/26/2009
Traveling with Children
One way to ensure that you have special toys and activities for your young children on a trip, ask a friend who has children the same age to share! Then offer to do the same for them for their next family trip. It is fun to go through your own family's travel games, toys, small puzzles and make a kit with "ALL NEW" toys for your friend's children--all for FREE! You have to know that something may get lost so don't loan anything that is irreplaceable.
Signe Roscoe <email>
Seattle, WA USA 04/18/2009
Southern California
Listening to your show about Southern Cal, tell Rick that when I lived in LA several years near Grifith Park, I accidentally happened upon a
Lithuanian festival and discovered that I was living near the largest Lithuanian population outside of Vilnius. There's not only "Latin"
cultures in Southern California.
Keith
Seattle, WA USA 04/06/2009
Barging in Burgundy
We barged on the Canal de Bourgogne about 10 years ago. Best vacation we’ve ever had. Sadly, we can’t do it again because we had such a great time it couldn’t possibly be as good the second time around. The food was outstanding: two cheeses and two wines with each lunch and each dinner. We barged in the mornings and a guy picked us up in his small bus every afternoon. He took us on a little guided tour each day: a little walled town, l’Hopital de Beaune, the city of Dijon, a couple of wineries, and hot-air ballooning. The guide knew a great deal about French history, architecture, etc. Did I mention the open bar?
Phil <email>
Corsicana, TX USA 04/03/2009
Traveling Europe
This past January I moved to Madrid to study spanish for the semester. While here I have been travleing on the weekends. I first purchased your Spain 2009 book and I loved it! I have found myself buying more and more of your books! My one piece of advise is to ADD the student discounted prices for the different museums. Lots of places excepted EU student ID´s and/or foreign ID´s as well.
Thanks again!
Rachel
San Diego, CA USA 03/30/2009
Kindness in Paris
2 years ago in Paris I felt asleep on the metro. I had been traveling for two days. My suitcase slipped into the aisle and across to the other seats. A Roma/Gypsy woman brought my bag, woke me up and gave me a lecture in French about the risk of thieves. This counters two stereotypes-that Parisians are cold and that Gypsies can't be trusted. Thanks to that kind lady, I made it to my friend's apartment with all my bagage.
Mary Evelyn
San Diego, CA USA 03/28/2009
Iditarod
I am a long time fan. You helped my husband and I have the trip of a lifetime to Italy in 2004!
But am totally dismayed and greatly disappointed by your coverage over the Iditarod.
Steve, CMON...three dogs have died this year. All for the sake b/c they "love to run?" How is it fair and morally RIGHT that humans get to see the Alaskan Range and take in all the beauty at the dogs expense? The historical aspect is totally lost on me. Here's news...things change. This race should no longer be tolerated as it exists in 2009.
I am sorry to see you were a part of the media coverage that admires such an unethical event.
Stephanie Kingston <email>
San Diego, CA USA 03/22/2009
I listened to the program on "World Schooling" today. There are even
better ways for teachers to show their children the world. My wife and
I and our daughter lived overseas for 23 years in 9 different countries.
We taught in International Schools in Asia, the Caribbean, Europe,
and the Middle East. Our daughter attended those schools and when she
started at Lewis & Clark College in Portland she got a full year advance
placement.
Larry S
Auburn, WA USA 03/22/2009
Kids travel the world
My family spent 3 years going around the world when I was age 3-6. Those memories are still vivid and those lessons I use every day.
I'm also a wizard at packing a suitcase :-)
Ziska Childs <email>
Carbondale, CO USA 03/21/2009
dog race
I am writing to comment on the fact that Rick didn't mention anything in his Alaska travel about the Iditarod dog race and the way these dogs are raced to the point of exhaustion and collapse.
Margarita Cisne <email>
Homestead, Fl USA 03/20/2009
Paris
Rick, I used your book, "Paris 2009" for my vacation this week. It was extraordinarily helpful. I saved money and time by being prepared. Your tips on the many scam artists that prey on tourists here proved to be extremely valuable too, because every trick that you mentioned was attempted on me! One suggestion I would make for future editions is to include not only the name of the nearest Metro stop for each attraction, but also the number of the Metro line that it's on.
Patrick
Milwaukee, WI USA 03/19/2009
Accessible Europe
Rick,
We love to travel and my husband uses a wheelchair, he is a parapelegic. We got your Accessible Europe book before we went to Britain and it was very useful. PLEASE continue to update that book and expand its reach. We want to go to Paris, Rome and other European locations and with you doing the 'leg' work, it will make it so much easier!!!
Thank you SO much for what you have already done, we really appreciate it.
Francie
Scottsdale, AZ USA 03/17/2009
misc.
Rick Steves!
I LOVED the Iran show you recently did. This show was a ray of hope in a very dark time. It would seem that Rick gets what so many "Americans" (and possibly Iranians) don't! I think I must point out that I don't always agree with the politicians since they very often don't "get it." So I say, to Rick, thank you! This show that was done about Iran was so informative and uplifting that it was nearly a religious experience! Thank you! Thank you!! THANK YOU!!!
Name
Wherever, AB USA 03/16/2009
Switzerland
Rick, We followed your Switzerland itinerary and had the best vacation of our lives! We loved Lucerne and hiking Mt. Rigi. Thanks for your guidance!
Sara Shaughnessy <email>
Palm City, Fl USA 03/15/2009
Ireland
Rick,
THe Irish Language is alive in the oddest of places. Cincinnati Ohio! Here at the University of Cincinnati, we have a Irish language course taught by a Gaelic scholar. We in a matter of a year reach high school level Irish speaking and in the second year we learn an expert level speaking and reading of Irish.
Cincinnati prides itself in its German and Irish heritage and is a mini Ireland in some neighborhoods.
Shannon Leary <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA 03/14/2009
Vienna
A Vienna visit should include the Hundertwasser museum and garden and the housing developement this painter,architect and environmentalist designed.Plan several hours in this delightful place.
lorraine B. Widman <email>
Portland, Oregon USA 03/14/2009
A Switzerland show someday?
We love the show and most everything Rick-related. The variety of countries covered on the radio show is a nice complement to the standard Europe fare of the books and PBS shows. But I'd still love to hear a show or two on Switzerland -- especially the Berner Oberland!
Emma
Northern California, USA 03/13/2009
iceland
Loved your pbs show on Iceland. Also heard the one on Iran which was neat, but absolutely wonderful when I saw it on TV.Is the Iceland going to be on video as well? And...have you been to Greenland?
anything like Iceland? If it wasn't so cold I would move there tomorrow!
Fran Wilson
Tualatin, OR USA 03/13/2009
Bill Holm interview
Rick, your interview with Bill Holm about his views on Iceland and travel was, in my view, your best show ever. I was sad to learn of Holm's death, but felt so fortunate to be among your many listeners given the chance to look with him through the "Windows of Brimnes." What a great American, and an inspiration for responsible travel and cross-cultural experience! Thank you.
Edward Wolf <email>
Portland, OR USA 03/09/2009
Estonia
I find your show about Estonia very insulting to Finns. I was born in Finland, came to the US when I was 5 and visited Talinn for the first time last summer. Your comments about Finns being drunk "deers" are not amusing and really amateurish. It shows your guests ignorance (Anneli) and disrespect for a country which was the only one not taken over by Russia during World War II. Your show is just disgusting when I think about the Finno Russo war of 1939. You and your guests care nothing about real history. The Finnish culture and economy is way above Estonia and they know it. ALso, the VIRI Hotel that you put down as ugly 50's communist was built by Finns. It is a nice hotel today where we stayed. This show is why I appreciate Burt Wolf
Rita Salonen Melnyk <email>
Murrieta, CA USA 02/22/2009
Courtesy Please...
Rick, I like your radio show a lot, however, if your open minded enough to listen to constructive criticism then allow me for offer some here:
I find it annoying hearing you continually interrupt and cut your guests off in mid sentence. I don't know if you even realize you do it, but go back and listen to one of your own podcasts (your Iran interview with Rita and Andrew as an example).
You always ask Americans to be thoughtful travelers. Being a good (i.e. courteous) listener is part of being a thoughtful traveler.
Steve
USA 02/22/2009
Program content
Rick Steves comment about finding used French postcards at pullouts along the Amalfi Coast were intirely inappropiate. He owes his NPR listeners an appology,. Dan Rosenberg
Daniel R. Rosenberg <email>
Kenmore, WA USA 02/20/2009
archived programs
Thank you for all of your archived programs. It is a true traveler's treasure trove. I have gained so much joy and knowledge from listening.
Summer
Columbus, OH USA 02/18/2009
cycling in Colombia
Dear Rick,
I just listened to the Feb 7 podcast of your radio show, featuring Willie Weir's cycling experience in Colombia. It left me a little perplexed: although Mr. Weir tries his best to convince the listeners that Colombia is a beautiful country that really deserves to be discovered by Americans, you really disappoint us with less than humorous (if not childish and insulting) comments about druglords and cartels. Was that the same Rick Steves who opened our eyes on Iran? Colombia is trying hard to change its image but the media only reports, as always, the bad news. There are of course, dangerous areas where tourism still has no place, but it's a huge country with an amazing diversity of cultures, climates, culinary delicacies and yes, an infrastructure for tourists. Thank you Mr. Weir!
Christophe Lahovary <email>
Durham, NC USA 02/17/2009
Romanitic Trips
We took our honeymoon in the highlands of Scotland. We drove from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye and stayed a the Skeabost House. The Skyebost House is one of the most masculine romantic places we have ever stayed at. You can golf, fish for salmon, pony trek around the island, take a launch for whale watching, and generally go hiking about the island. The accomodations are very rich and romantic. A wonderful secluded place for a honeymoon.
Charlie Nash
Cincinnati, Ohio USA 02/14/2009
Romantic Travel
After listening to romantic travel on 02-14-09, I was surprised that there is no place in the the United States or North America considered romantic.
Lynda
Carroll, IA USA 02/14/2009
Netherlands
Congratulations on your PBS show!
However, I was almost driven into a telephone pole last Saturday when Rick emphatically opined that the reason the North of the Netherlands differs form the South of the country is that the North is 'protestant,' and therefore 'not fun,' and the South is 'catholic' and therefore 'laid back and fun.'
Puulleeeze! The reasons for the differences between urban and rural areas of any country are many and varied, but mostly have to do with them being URBAN and RURAL. To perpetuate stereotypes as a respected travel expert is really shocking! Not to mention how much fun I've had in the North.
Oh, and concerning whatever's left of the legacy of the Protestant Reformation, I think it's fair to say that it was a good bit responsible for a cultural shift towards individualism and challenge to dogma that Mr. Steves would value as an independent, self-deterministic traveler!
Joe
Cleveland, oh USA 02/09/2009
Willie Weir Interview
When interviewing Willie Weir about his cycling adventures in Colombia, Rick alluded to druglords and "druglords with their AK-47's" several times. Rather than sounding like a seasoned travel expert, he sounded more like a small-minded American who doesn't understand the complexities of other countries. What was with that? Maybe he was actually making fun of American misconceptions and I just didn't catch it.
Linda
Nashville, TN USA 02/07/2009
food and culture
Hello Rick and Company,
I've been watching the PBS shows for years but just subscribed to the podcast. I had a wonderful experience listening to "Eating through Europe" while eating my "medianoche" sandwich in a local Cuban restaurant. Thank you for sharing the cultures of the world with us! Happy Travels!
Diana
diana lewis
north hollywood, ca USA 02/06/2009
Walking the Gobe
I enjoyed your program with Helen Thayer. I'm wondering if you've read "The Long Walk" by Slavomir Rawicz - who was captured by the Soviets in 1939 and sent to the Gulag. He, along with other inmates, escaped and walked from Siberia to India - through the Gobi. He later rejoined the Polish army to fight against the Germans, and then eventually immigrated to the UK. I first read the book over 20 years ago. After listening to your program I did a web search and noticed in 2006 the book went through a reprint.
It's a fascinating tale that I would highly recommend.
LeRoy Mills <email>
San Antonio, TX USA 01/27/2009
visiting small cultures which are under pressure
In enjoying Helen Thayer's Gobi Trek, I was struck by her (and Rick's) comments on wishing to protect and preserve cultures under pressure, most of which have been driven out of existence, or on the verge of extinction. (This resembles an ongoing, inadvertent genocide, with loss of languages, lifeways, and persons, but that is not the theme on which I'm writing.)
Helen spoke of the pastoral nomads they met in Gobi. I was reminded of similar encounters, but not in any trips abroad. My thoughts were of the American ghetto, and in particular the African-American culture persevering there in the urban setting. It is threatened with extirpation also, both involuntarily as people are scattered or disabled by various external pressures, and voluntarily as they are seduced into the atomization of life in separated middle-class households.
The role of tourist is unknown in the ghetto (apart from a few problematic Anglo sorts out slumming), so it is difficult to visit and get acquainted without some substantive reason. (My reason was being a public health nurse, needing to account for being an old white guy out scouring the hood for pregnant teenagers.) I think one could cultivate other good reasons, just as long as they result in your acceptance into and participation in daily life, rather than your being viewed as a perhaps valuable but nevertheless alien outsider do-gooder. Amid the problems of high stress lives, there is remarkable warmth, humor, and acceptance of one's individuality (including quirks). You get to learn about the pleasures (and dangers) of teasing, hustling, and other valuable social skills, as well as working hard. You may get to learn about some ways in which your own socialization (in the economically dominant culture), has failed to teach you social skills which all people are better off possessing.
Can I recommend a concerted effort to travel in and get to know American ghettos? I don't know. Preparation for this would call on exceptional social skills, rather than geographic knowledge. It sure is cheaper than a trip to Europe. One might start regularly shopping at mom and pop stores in the ghetto (more expensive big stores, but great values at, like, "97 cents plus & minus stores"), eating at restaurants there, and chatting with people who chat with you.
Enough. This is obviously an eccentric aside, relative to the high culture and environmentally prestigious pursuits of most upscale adventurers. There is art to be found, but it lacks prestige, etc. I'm quite serious in the thought, and I wish I might someday hear that Helen Thayer traveled there, and I sincerely fear the extinction of these communities, but I don't expect a trend to develop.
I would be interested in the thoughts of others. Maybe there's a new career for me as a guide, but I doubt it.
David Bockoven <email>
Fresno, CA USA 01/24/2009
Prague architecture and glass
When listening to your program on Prague with Hunza and Katrina, I was surprised to NOT hear them mentioning the feature of modern Czech architechture that is most unique: monumental glass. During the 60's, 70's, & 80's giants of Czech glass art such as Stanislav Libensky and Jaroslava Brychtova and others designed numerous structural pieces thoughout the city. I visited all fo them while I was producing a documentary on the Libenskys in the early Nineties and was convinced that a tour of these sites is something apart from any city architectural tour that I have ever taken. They vary in their sitings from the old cathedral by the Castle to the Metro station at Narodni Trida. If Steve is interested in this
"hidden treasure', I should be quite glad to pass on the information. Much of the visuals are included in my 1994
video title, "The Glass Dimension". It was ironic that when Katrina, in the interview, referred to the accidental bombing of the Old City Hall in 1945 as an event that wiped out some particularly ugly Gothic building details, she neglected to add that the Libenskys replaced the destroyed wall with an amazing 8 x 10 meter wall constructed from glass semi-cylinders.
But, then, even the people who sell tickets to the Town Hall Tower mostly don't know about this wall.
So, Seattle is not the only city of glass.
Terry Moyemont <email>
Bainbridge Island, WA USA 01/17/2009
Your new number one fan!
Dear Rick,
This was adorable! I always wished I could take a quick trip back to Iran to tape record the real life and show the people that they don't hate America...it's just the governmental organizations and politicians who messed it up!
Thank you so much for making my dream come true!
Mernoosh <email>
San Ramon, USA 01/14/2009
Rick Steves,Sallam!
I heard you on Talk of the Nation on NPR about your trip to Iran. I have not been to Iran, but I have Iranian people in my family and as friends.
Have you read the book, "The Ayatollah Begs to Differ" by Hooman Majd? He is Iranian, now US citizen. Excellent, excellent! The best resource I have found for American people to start to understand Iran, Iranians, Persia, and Persians, and Americans to understand themselves. A wonderful read, insightful, funny, and human.
Hodafiz! Stan Bennett
Stan Bennett <email>
North Syracuse, NY USA 01/08/2009
programs
I love all of your travel programs. Since I am unable to physically travel any more, I feel I am still traveling with you as guide. However, I do have one problem with the programs and that is that the music is so loud it is hard, at times, to hear what you are saying. But don't stop. The programs are still worth the effort to listen.
Nell Warren
Richmond, VA USA 01/07/2009
Iran
Rick, thanks for the terrific interview with Hooman Majd. He is a captivating writer and speaker. I have looked forward to your documentary on Iran for many, many months. I see not all the people who heard the interview are as enthusiastic as I am about Iran's possibilities. What a shame that so many people feel that Iran must conform all at once and completely to our Western ideals. Nobody is saying there aren't severe hurdles, challenges, freedoms that must be addressed, but all of these things come at a cost and Iran is going about their business at THEIR OWN pace and that's ok.
Globalization isn't all bad; it allowed me to meet my Iranian husband; it allowed you to go to Iran and to tell the world that things are not that simple; not at all black and white, good or evil. Allowing Iran to become what Iran wants to become is actually a beautiful thing. They have the benefit of learning by their own past mistakes AND other's past mistakes. The road will continue to be rocky, but it will progress and, thanks to you, we are privledged to watch it progress. Thank you for going to Iran. Thank you for telling the world about this rich, complex place. Your work here is doubly important. When I recently toured the Babylon exhibit at the British Museum, I was struck by how Iraq's ancient historical sites have been or are being destroyed by the West, I hope that what you are doing to educate the world about Iran will help to prevent the same thing from happening there. You are the best example of what it is to be a true citizen of the world. Thank you for your good work.
Eva Gorman
Portland, OR USA 01/04/2009
Travel in Iran
Although I have always been a big fan of your TV and radio program, have used your books to travel to Europe and taken your classes at the U-W, I must say I am really turned off by your promoting travel to Iran programs. This is an enemy that hates Americans, fosters hate throughout the middle east, aids and abets our enemies such as Al-Queda with arms and money. I consider myself a liberal politically, but am disappointed with Steve on this issue. Dan McGuire
Dan J. McGuire
Kirkland, WA USA 01/04/2009
today's program
Interesting topic, and one that desperately needs attention. Another country that should be looked at is Bangladesh. I have just returned from a 6 week stay and I believe that many in Bangladesh are on the edge of siding with a more militant Islam and are beginning to look towards Pakistani militant groups for guidance. This seems incredible to me, as in the past all I have ever heard is how Bangladeshis hate Pakistan, after its near or outright genocide of 3 million Bangladeshis in the war of independence. However, many young men I spoke with are eager to join the fight against what they see is America's literal crusade to wipe out Islam and enforce Christianity around the world. For people with little else than their religion, they will fight with all means possible to keep it.
Jenny Anderson
Portland, OR USA 01/04/2009
English language useage
I thought the show was timely and helpful. I am thinking about traveling there myself, and welcome any information from Mr. Steves, or anyone else so broad-minded. The reason I write is to comment on Dr. Mogadam's use of the word "absolutely" after many of Rick's comments. I stopped counting after six, I suspect it was more than ten. I sincerely apologize for sounding petty. It certainly sounds petty to me after writing it. However, forty years of listening to public radio have seen these things really wear on me. Let me say something about it to someone. Is there a way to coach guests to avoid saying such things? "Such things" include urging the guest to say the rarely heard "you're welcome" or something similar, and not "thank you" when the host says "thank you" at the end of a segment. Thank you! You're Welcome! Well Done!
C. Erickson <email>
Vancouver, WA USA 01/04/2009
Symbols of separation
Thank you for today's (January 3) program "Rick Steves in Iran: Perplexing Issues." It gave me new insights into US racism in boxing 1895-1915. Some human behaviors persist across centuries.
Gilbert Gia
Bakersfield, CA USA 01/03/2009
Jan 3 2009 Iran radio program
I think with Rick's program on Iran, he is becoming America's abassador equal to Satchmo. I trust Rick has fans in the Obama administration who will carry his respect and enthusiasm to their work in expanding America's contact with all the globe.
larry w zuberbier <email>
des moines, wa USA 01/03/2009