Has Travel Changed You?: 2004
Rick Steves wants to hear from people who had never left the country before using Rick's guidebooks or going on a Rick Steves tour. Please let us know how your worldview changed as a result of Rick's influence on your travel . Did you meet someone abroad who made a dramatic impact on your life ? Has traveling overseas changed your views on America?
Please note: We may contact you based on your comments posted here. Please include your email address if we may contact you.
In search of otherness...
My wife and I took advantage of an opportunity in 1998 to visit London to see a friend who was studying there and had a place for us to stay - cheap digs! We added stops in Edinburgh and Paris just to maximize our exposure. We used Rick's guides for accommodation etc. to great effect!We now live in Edinburgh (have for 2+ years) and take advantage of its proximity to the rest of Europe and beyond - it's a great jumping-off point. I am pursuing a postgraduate degree and chose Edinburgh because I have paltry language skills outside English and because I felt being embedded in another culture would be enlightening. Has it ever....Issues of cultural exchange, political discourse and general appreciation of "otherness" has fundamentally changed my outlook and has convinced me that we need to make travel abroad - from the US to anywhere - compulsory. It's outrageous and distressing just how much we all don't know about each other. It's also a joy entering into dialogue with those 'others' that our Country doesn't have diplomatic relations with to discover just how similar we are and delight in the difference.Get your passport and go - anywhere! Follow Rick's advice and don't expect anyone to fit naive preconceptions, they'll probably disappoint you. Open your mind, engage the 'people' you encounter and don't travel like a 'consumer' of cultures, rather as a participant in these cultures and you'll forever be changed.Happy travels and prepare for change.
Keith Ballantyne
Musselburgh, Scotland UK Fri 12/17/2004
Travels w/ Rick's guidebook
I studied abroad last spring in Dijon, France; a spectacular five-month period that has greatly changed how I view the rest of the world. During this time I was able to make a handful of week-long trips: Germany and Austria, Italy and Greece to name a few. To each of these places I brought along with me my Rick Steve's 2004 Europe Through the Backdoor...don't travel without it!
With his insight I ventured to off-the-beaten-track places that I would have otherwise never known about. And, it was these backdoor places that highlighted my time overseas. The backstreets of Venice, the beautiful Cinque Terre and its breathtaking hiking trail, romantic Bruges, Belgium as well as the cobblestone streets of Colmar, France are great discoveries that I made thanks to the guidebook and ones that I hope everyone can also enjoy.
Ben Brueshoff
Apple Valley, MN USA Wed 12/01/2004
Good American
Okay, I had actually gone to England the first time only after seeing Rick's television programs. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The second time, my friend and I read Europe Through the Back Door and had a blast. A couple of months later, we attended a lecture that Rick Steves gave in conjunction with the local PBS station. It was so much fun and only made us hunger more for travel.
Seeing other countries and meeting other people is so eye-opening and wonderful that you cannot explain it to other people. They have to do it for themselves. It broadens your mind. It excites your senses. Above all, it makes you realize that other people, of different nationalities and cultures, want the same things as yourself; healthy children, a political voice, and happiness.
The downside of travelling is that once you do it, you are obsessed with doing more. You hunger for other peoples' culture and you want to represent your own to the best of your ability. I took being an American very seriously. Let me tell you, the Brits have a great appreciation for our efforts during WWII and our tragic experience of September 11. You do learn, however, that Europe has had so much tragedy on their doorstep, they are not quite as fearful as we are.
I appreciate Rick Steves' open- mindedness and warmth when it comes to other cultures. He shows a different Europe than the ultra-savvy hosts I see on other programs. I want to stay in Bed and Breakfasts. I want to drink pints with the locals. And I certainly want to be a good American who knows the difference between patriotism and arrogance. That is what travelling has taught me.
Lorretta
Houston, TX USA Fri 11/26/2004
Travel gets you out of your comfort zone
Travel has broadened my way of thinking.I travel alone,and enjoy slipping into the sights and sounds of their world.It has made me humble,and interested in ideas,not things. It has also made me apreciate the U.S and it's diversity.I don't think we are any more materialistic then Europeans,we just have access to more stuff.I am able to see the global role we play,and I think as americans we have a responsibility to stay informed and not to take our lifestyle for granted,not to become soft and spoiled.
I look forward to my annual European vacations,it gets me out of my comfort zone.Rick Steves guidebooks are a tremendous help,I just purchased Italy 2005 and have never traveled without them! Keep traveling-Jeanne
Jeanne Ferrari-Amas
Lihue, HI USA Fri 11/19/2004
Stamp in the passport is just the beginning!
I think I caught the travel bug from my mom- she has always traveled and it's because of her that we have been lucky enough to go on family trips all over the country. I remember I found her old photo albums from her trips to Europe when she was younger and eagerly flipped through them, yearning to be there.
In 8th grade, my parents let me go on a school trip to France over Spring Break. This trip sealed the deal for me on travel- the perpetual love affair had begun. It's the only time I've been to Europe, but now that I'm in college, I plan to study abroad at least once.
Travel has changed me in so many ways- it's made me more confident and given me direction in my life. It was travel that helped me decide on my major (International Studies). It can touch your heart and move your soul, broaden your mind and open your eyes to new experiences and new ways of thinking; it's intense living, life in high-gear. I love my passport stamps-they're my reminder that the world is out there waiting for me to explore it.
Pam
Atlanta, GA USA Thu 11/11/2004
One is never the same after travel
How has travel changed me? Let me count the ways (ok, I won't count all of them, or I will hog the entire page). In 1988 I found a little paperback by Rick Steve's called "22 Days in Great Britain -- The Itinerary Planner." I studied that book until the low quality pages were about shot, and in 1992 set off for UK with my then 4-year-old daughter. From that day forward, travel is my passion. And, as a colleague once remarked, "You know, I take TRIPS. You go on ADVENTURES." :)
I have just finished planning my latest trip, which will take me and my sister across Scandinavia and into Estonia and Russia. Except for a hotel in Russia, all my lodging will be in rooms owned by ordinary folks like me. There are several small hops by air -- with local low fare airlines -- plus train and ferry connections. Thanks, Rick, for arming me with info on how to search out and make these plans. I am on a chronically low budget but I always find a way to travel. :)
The bonus in making my own arrangements is that I have opened the door to meeting many new friends. Its one thing to have the desk person at a hotel smile and say hello while handing me a key; quite another to have back and forth emails from a local who wishes me a safe trip, and says "Don't worry, if you are late I'll meet you in the coffee shop across the street."
Travel cannot help but broaden one's horizons. And, we are each an ambassador in our own right. One of my ploys when in a city where I don't speak the local language is to seek out a taxi stand. In all countries, cab drivers tend to be emigres, and are typically fluent in multiple languages. I always know how to say "Do you understand English?" in the local tongue.
One early morning I found myself in Austria, bleary eyed from "sleeping" in a couchette, and with my then 8 year old daughter with me. We needed to find the local camping. When I asked at the taxi stand, several men stepped forward. One, a Kurd from Iraq, offered to drive us to the camping. On the way, he told us of what he felt about the United States government. He and his family, and his people, had suffered greatly because of our politics. But, he was careful to add "I know YOU are not the government." Four days later my daughter and I were packing our tent, and planning to hop a bus to the train station, when a taxi pulled up. Our new friend had remembered what day I said we were leaving, and he gave us a ride to the train station -- refusing any payment. We hugged when we said goodbye, and I think of him often, especially in light of the continuing news of Iraq.
My youngest daughter has traveled with me extensively. Looking at her world view, and the difference travel has made in her life, I have no regrets over any money spent traveling. One day, when she was very young, we were on a local train filled with commuters on their way to work and school. She sat quietly for a bit and then said "These people are all just like us." A small observation, but a realization that many adults -- especially Americans -- never have. It is easier to discount news of far away places when its "US" and "THEM" Think about it. When she was in kindergarten she was frustrated by the kids who had no idea that the ditty "The mighty duke of York..." referred to a real historical figure and a real place. She remembered the hill in York, and figured that was THE hill in question. When we went to Venice two years ago her best friend came along. I overheard this conversation as we were on the commuter boat:
Margery
Cambridge, MA USA Mon 11/01/2004
Travel
In 2002 I took my very first trip out of the country. I went on a best of Italy tour and I am obsessed with that country now. I went to Venice and then on a city Florence tour last fall. Next spring I am taking my son on our own modified Best of Italy tour using of course Rick Steves books. I look forward to introducing my son to another world as I was introduced by Rick Steves.
People I work with try to encourage me to go somewhere else but Italy has so much to offer and I have so much to learn from it that I can not think of anywhere else. If family circumstances allowed I would live there. I see more than ever the excesses we have and do not fully enjoy because we are so wrapped up in just getting them.We rush places and eat meals and we do not enjoy. We talk but we don't listen. I think of Italy and I think of warmth and that is not the weather. My last trip it rained most of the time but it was all good because it was Italy.
I think now in my daily life of ways to simplify and enjoy more.I have had the opportunity to see and live in many places in the United States.Where I live I see eagles fly almost daily and am surronded by beautiful mountains but nothing compares to the Dolomites in Italy and hearing a real cuckoo. Walking streets where Michelangelo walked or Julius Caeser is something so incredible to me that i cannot find the words. I will now try to travel at least every 2 years to Italy,more often if I can and bask in the differences
Donna Knight
Arlington, Wa USA Tue 10/26/2004
changed for ever
Rick - I traveled to Europe (Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland) for the first time this summer and I took my 16 year old daughter with me. I couldn't have done it without your travel guides. We had the time of our lives and are forever changed for the better. We are now travelers for life.
I was especially impressed with the wonderful reception we received from the people. And much to the surprise of most Americans I know, the people of France were very warm and welcoming. The thing I hear most was how much they loved Americans but couldn't understand why we kept the government we have. I could only answer with "I don't understand it myself".
Keep writing your great guide books and keep sharing your opinions/essays on the world as a whole. I feel I am right in line with your way of thinking and I completely appreciated your voicing it. Keep up the great work!!
Nancy
Loomis, CA USA Tue 10/26/2004
Enhance your children's lives
Raising two teenagers in Lincoln, Nebraska my wife and I decided to take them to Europe. First to London, next year it was off to Paris and Normandy, then off to Rome and Venice in year three, and last year back to London to day trip into the country side. My daughter is now driving and I see in her the confidence and independence that travelling has instilled in her. As soon as she got her license she was planning trips off to Colorado or down to Kansas City. Not that I want to let her go all the time, but her lack of fear or apprehension at setting off with nothing more than a few maps to go have different experiences shows me the value of travel for not only yourself but your children.
We have been over four times now and have yet to stay in a hotel or rent a car. We rent an apartment for the extra room and adventure and use public transportation. No local guide or doorman to help, its just Rick's books and internet searching and we hit the ground running. I am 43 and was never on a plane until I was 26. My children's lives will be forever changed due to the experience they have had. The problem is once you start there is no going back. It is a yearly expensie in our budget and my wife wants to buy a small flat in Paris when we retire to spend time in each year. It is adictive.
Mark
Lincoln, NE USA Tue 10/26/2004
traveling changed my life
Four years ago I was in Italy when Bush was elected. It was my first trip outside the country and I was studying with other United Statesians, europeans, asians, and australians and traveling around (with Rick's books of course). That trip and that day in particular have changed my last 4 years and the rest of my life. I became keenly aware of what the rest of the world thinks of us and our political system. I have been back to europe each year (with rick's books) and each time the anger has grown from the time before.
At the same time, I have learned that I am an ambassador for our country. I have to constantly remind my friends and others that I meet that the united states is not all narrow-minded individuals. It is an uphill battle, but the more we travel and act as good stewards, the more we grow and the better other cultures will understand our own. While he was probably speaking of other things, Jim Morrison was quoted as saying "a mind expanded by a new idea, can never go back to its original dimensions." In my limited experience, world travel is the best mind expanding experience ever.
Joe Dauer
State College, PA USA Tue 10/26/2004
Has travel changed me
I travelled for three months in spring 2004 with my wife, 10 year old daugher and 8 year old son. Seven weeks in Italy, 6 weeks in France and 2 weeks in England.
Rick Steves' guidebooks organized our trip, and were fantastically helpful. Little tips (like take the southern most Autostrada exit in or out of Florence, or buy Colloseum tickets across the street in the Forum) lubricated the experience greatly. We discovered our own secret tiny restaurant on a side street in the Paris 7th, only to find Rick Steves' photo already on the wall. Our kids always cracked up at the sight of so many travellers toting the distinctive turquoise paperbacks everywhere we went. We ourselves used the tear out and throw away method in keeping with the pack light philosophy. \
How did this experience change us? For me, it was an appreciation that the history of Europe is 2000 years of unrelenting violence - of might makes right. From the slaves of the Roman Empire who built the Colloseum and Pont de Gard to the genocidal popes who wiped out the Cathars to William the Conqueror (still bitterly denounced to us by a docent in the wonderful York musuem), to the founding of the oldest European monarchy in Monaco by an assassin disguised as a monk, to town after town in central Italy built on top of high hills for defense from their bitterest enemies (thier nearest neighbors), to the memorial plaque listing the hundreds and hundreds of dead civilians bombed by the Germans in the rather small town of Bath, to the French who hardly resisted when the Nazis entered their capital, but instead sent 90,000 of their own citizens to death camps so other Parisians could continue to bake pastries and go to the opera.
I came away thinking that it is arrogant for Europeans to lecture Americans about how to behave in the world, given that they have lived in peace for such a short period of their history - a peace recently bought with the sacrifice of many from this side of the pond.
I came home to really appreciate the amount of open space we have in America. I miss the Italian food and French bread most of all.
Steven Adler
Seattle, WA USA Mon 10/25/2004
Has travel changed me
My wife and our two teenage boys have just returned from our second trip to Europe, this time to Italy.
So much of what we are comes from our interactions with others that it?s sometimes difficult to separate our own habits, opinions and character traits from the context in which we framed them. Our travels demonstrate that dramatically. Soon as you are off the plane, life is really different. It?s interesting what isn?t important when you are away from it, and those changes are indicative of who we really are as opposed to what we are usually doing.
It?s also interesting that we live in more contexts than the geographical/cultural context. Away from the US we discover that we always feel at home in worship with other Christians even when we fail to understand the language or local customs. Christian is an important context for us. We notice that we like being places where there are families and working people, and that we feel just as uncomfortable with the fashionable Italians, Germans and Swedes as we feel with fashionable people in the US. (We thank Ricks books for helping us travel with a low profile). We also notice that sports scores, the closing numbers on the S&P 500 and checking our email are not as important as we thought they were. Maybe those things were never so important.
Because we travel with our children we get to share this unfolding with them. I?m hoping it helps them have some clarity about who they are lest they just be swept up in the tide of our culture. What I know it?s done is help us to know how much we love each other and how common that makes us among the worlds families. I?ve been terribly impressed with how family friendly Europe and Latin America have been and how much people visibly enjoy their children and welcome ours. It?s a whole lot more family values than the chest-pounding and pontificating that goes on at home.
Laurie Tockey
Lincoln, IL USA Mon 10/25/2004
Has travel changed me
In 1998 my 30ish daughter called me and said the six scariest words a mother can hear - "Hi Mom - Guess what I did?"..... followed by "Want to go along?" She had quit her job and bought a ticket to Spain. Since her college major was Spanish, it was a logical choice. I thought about all the reasons not to go and realized what a great opportunity had been given to me. I would even have my own guide.
She already had the Rick Steves guide to Spain and it was our bible thoughout our trip. Towards the end we decided to go against the grain & find a place to stay without consulting the by now only slightly worn Rick Steves bible. The next day we were thumbing through it again, low and behold, there was our hotel choice. After that we just went with the flow. Like minds and all that.
It was a wonderful experience, and for both of us, our first trip to Europe. I am sure that one of the reasons we did not get into the ususal Mother Daughter squabbles even once is that travel was made so easy for us.
Since then I have been lucky enough to change to a job with extensive travel in the US on an ongoing basis. I have also traveled to Beijing, Southern China, Hong Kong, Macau, Bali, Fiji, Ireland and will be leaving mid-November to spend a week in Rome at one of the Rick Steves recommended hotels - by myself. And yes, I am going to wear my money belt and fend off the little urchins. At least I know what and who to watch out for. It should be worth another good story or two.
I look forward again to sitting in a little cafe half way around the world with my Rick Steves itinerary in front of me, not to follow by rote, but to use as as the excellent guide that it is.
So, keep on writing. Travel broadens the horizons but hopefully enough walking on our travels keeps other parts of us from broadening unnecessarily.
C J Noble
Langley, WA USA Sun 10/24/2004
Wisdom Requires Diversity
My children do not understand me any more. I used to be so conservative, so Republican, so American.
After the children left, my wife and I began to travel in Europe following Rick's advice while planning and traveling. The best advice from Rick is "Keep an open mind." I would add "Keep an open heart."
We learned to sit in the Campo and let people come up to us and ask "Are you an American?" When we said "Yes" they often proudly announced that they had been to Florida or New York. They have a cousin in Chicago or LA.
We thought we were wise. We worked hard, made money, retired early. We were sure that American culture and ethics were right for the whole world.
Then we began to observe the quality of European life. Quality not based on quantity (more is better) but on savoring the little things that make life worth living. Lunch with friends, holding hands as you walk (even guys do it) with a good friend. Turning out the lights when the evening church bell rings. Paying more in taxes to make sure everybody gets the basic needs of life (grumbling of course, just like we do). Respectfully treating the land where your forefathers lived and died a thousand years ago.Every trip to Europe teaches us something new. We bring it back with us and enrich our daily lives. One of the biggest things is just to savor every smile, hug and touch from friends and loved ones--even if you only just met them and you don't even speak the same language.
We are much more humble now. We try to explain that not all Americans are pushy, arrogant and isolated even if we have a President who is. Still we can't answer this year's big question in every country we visit, "Why would an American vote for George W. Bush?"
Our children don't understand us and our "liberal" world view or why we've changed so much. But they want what we have gained.Someday they will travel outside the US. Then I think, they will begin to understand.
Eric Morris
Bellevue, WA USA Sun 10/24/2004
How Travel Changed Me
I have been changed in some important ways:
1. After seeing prosperous people using bicycles as transportation (Netherlands). I sold my car here in the US and use a bicycle for everything. (How others feel about this is another story)
2. I now see that culture is everything - a simle, language, business, cleanliness, the way people (and you) walk and talk are all learned behaviors. Each person passes these on to others around them, much like a virus. You wouldn't notice this if you never left you home town.
3. How I relate to people is in a very practcal way, much how Europeans relate to others. This is been very helpful.
Robert
Miami, FL USA Sat 10/23/2004
Growing Through Travel
Often the most life altering experiences come unbidden, unplanned, out of the blue...So began my Europe adventures. A friend was going to Europe and asked (at almost the last moment) if I would come. I was in just the right mood to say yes.
While looking over guidebooks, we picked the Rick Steves books because we liked the "through the backdoor" idea--even though neither of us were familiar with Rick. This was a little over 2 years ago and this trip just rearranged my life--shifted everything. I became hooked on travel and returned to Europe twice more. Through these trips I have grown so much in my perceptions and beliefs.
I love so much about Europe--market days, bicycling, B&B's, squares, sidewalk cafes, architecture, public transportation, history, cultural diversity, and especially the people.
I took on the Rick philosophy of becoming an extrovert (even though at home I'm not) and talked and made friends as an ongoing, integral part of my journeys. The conversations often shifted to world events and the respectful dialogue with Europeans was very educational. They are quite informed and are able to converse very intelligently (without rancor) on most anything. It is wonderful to know that Europe is so full of caring, intelligent people with lots of heart.
Having been on the outside, looking at America and Europe, I gained new insight into the dynamics at work on the world scene. I am heartened that Europe has stepped up and has essentially become a loud, clear voice of sanity, freedom, and the dignity of man during these troubled times. If things continue to slide politically and culturally in our country, Europe may increasingly become the world leader to champion the causes that we used to. While I watch my own beloved country moving towards chaos and confusion, I am heartened that Europe remains rooted in the democratic values and human principles that kept us friends for so long. I pray that friendship continues. I will continue to travel and do my part, one on one, to build the bridge between people and nations.
James
Portland, Oregon USA Fri 10/22/2004
Travel to Europe has changed me
Yes...traveling to Europe has changed me, I can't wait to go back. My daughter and I went to Europe for the month of July as a high school graduation gift to her, it was the first time for both of us. We loved it. Our travels included Italy (Rome, Florence, Venice, Verenna); Paris; and London.
Rick Steves books and shows helped us tremendously. I booked ahead of time the hotels (hotels that were recommended in the book, we had a good experience with all of the ones we picked)and we just went to ATMs for money as we went. We also purchased train tickets at the depots as we went through the ticket machines and had no problems whatsoever.
Our first trip on a train was in Europe...can you believe that!! We took the train from Rome to Florence, Florence to Venice, Venice to Milan and then on to Varenna, Varenna back to Milan and then from Paris to London (the chunnel)...what a fantastic experience. I will never forget July 2004 and Europe.
I will not be able to go back in 2005, but I am planning another trip in 2006. I loved Italy and cannot wait to go back. The people were friendly and it was such a great experience to leave our country and see a little bit of the world. It was our first big trip going just the two of us and being women, I was a bit apprehensive...but...we felt totally safe everywhere that we went. I can't wait to go back to Europe and to Italy.
Thank you Rick Steves for all of your help, I am now hooked on Europe and look on your website once a week to see what other travelers think after their trips. Keep up the good work.
Jackie & Shannon
Petaluma, CA USA Thu 10/21/2004
europe has given me my future
Last April, I traveled to Switzerland, Italy, and France with my school. I had no idea what to expect going into the trip. I left the trip ready to go back. From a snowfall in the Swiss Alps, to a gondola ride throught Venice's canals, to the cliffs of Monaco, I found myself becoming enthrawled in Europe's beauty and culture. Shortly ater returning from Europe, I found Rick's tv show and I am now hooked. I have decided that my drean job would be a photojournalist traveling through Europe making travel brochures.
Thanks to Rick and my trip to Europe, I have found myself a dream to strive towards. Thank you Rick for all you do to expose myself, and people who have not had the oppotunity to travel the ability to see all of the things that Europe has to offer. I cannot wait to return to France and to visit Spain next April. 6 months and 1 day to go! Happy Travels!
corey
MA USA Wed 10/13/2004
Business and pleasure
Luckily my travels to Europe have been a blend of business and pleasure travel. Rick's books have added pleasure to both parts. Hotels, restaurants and attitudes have all been better with his expert guidance.
The thing that produced the most profound change in me was visting my clients in their homes. At once I was struck by the incredible similarities, people the world around simply strive for a better life, and the many charming differences.
Those among us who experience close contact with the average folks of the world are blessed and lucky indeed. The U.S. is so large, it's size alone precludes so many from this exposure to other cultures, languages and traditions. It is so illuminating to realize that 95% of the world lives life according to their own precepts, not ours, and often prospers. It is at once humbling and inspiring. Europe through the back door is a fact, not just a slogan. I am grateful for having been fortunate enough to catch my little glimpse. Thanks Rick!
Terry Williams
Stockton, CA USA Tue 10/12/2004
Traveler's Differences
The first time I traveled to Europe was in 1987 for a month & have been hooked ever since. I started using Rick Steves' books for travel when when I married my Rick Steves travel show watching husband 4 yrs ago. My husband was not as adventurous as I when it came to doing things spare of the moment & had not traveled much out of the country. He liked everything planned out in advance, which to me is boring & not much fun. Sorry to say my husband at first had more trust in Rick's info than my off the cuff style.
Rick's books have been the happy answer. Now after many trips together & a lot more trust from experience, we can plan from the books the basic stuff like transport & lodging for him, while using the book as a jumping point for a little more free spirited travel for me. I would say travel with Rick's books have made my husband a lot more open minded & have made me a little more patient.
Sunnyvale, CA USA Tue 10/12/2004
Has travel changed you?
I took my first trip to Europe straight out of grad school in 1982, I didn't have a job to come back to nor much money, but it was the best thing I ever did in my life! (Europe on $17/day!!!)Needless to say, it changed my life. I first used Rick's books on my next trip to Europe in 1985 and Rick has been my companion since then.
My travels to Europe has changed my life (for the better) in countless ways - "round up the usual suspects" - maybe it just comes down to living a broader life. Taking advantage of cultural opportunities you might not have done at home...the art, the food, the people, the history, all of which impacts you as a person...traveling forces you (hopefully) to learn, to learn about others as you learn more about yourself.
Allen Hazard
San Diego, CA USA Mon 10/11/2004
How Travel Has Changed Me
I freely admit it: Rick Steves is my travel guru. All my life (I?m close to 70), I?ve always wanted to travel to Europe. Five years ago, my wife and I got the chance, and thanks to a teacher colleague, I learned about Rick and his travel books. What a difference that made! Since then, I?ve been back many times, traveled several countries in Western and Eastern Europe, with the help of Rick?s books, and it changed my perspective on life.
Regardless of what some people, the media and our leaders tell you, we are truly part of a global society?whether or not others want to recognize that fact. I love our country, but I grieve over our country?s myopic, selfish view of the rest of the world. Our ?we?re No. 1 and to hell with you? attitude will, if not changed, lead to our downfall as a society. However, I remain hopeful. The more we can encourage our youth to travel Europe, the better chance we have of creating a society that ?acts locally and thinks globally.? It?s not just the best, it?s the only path to a better world.JH, Austin, Texas
jack harkrider
liberty hill, TX USA Sun 10/10/2004
Shaky girl to strong woman!
At age 21 I went to Europe as a solo female traveler. I was in a co-dependent relationship with a young man, who originally intended to travel with me, but as the trip approached he lacked the funds. So I went alone. This is embarrasing, but I spent the first three weeks crying each and every day from being separated from my boyfriend.
With wide eyes, I absorbed the new experiences. I loved and appreciated the sights, sounds and smells that were all new to me, but it was all tinged with a heavy sadness.Then, about half way through the trip I shook myself awake, and thought... "you are over here NOW! You might as well enjoy it, or go home!" I forced myself to put him out of my mind, and to focus on this trip that I had planned and saved years for.My trip then blossomed.
I became independent, confident, relieved, and HAPPY! The trip became exciting and adventure-filled, and I even fell into a traveling pattern where I felt I could live on the road indefinitely, relishing my surroundings everywhere I went and the people I encountered.Upon my return home, I was, and would remain a different person. The co-dependent relationship failed because of it (thank goodness). People I meet now cannot envision my former timidity and needy personality, because they know me as a strong, independent adventure-seeker.Thank goodness for travel, and that life changing trip!!
Julie
Seattle, USA Thu 10/07/2004
My husband, my 10 year old daughter and I have been to Europe 5 times in the past 2 years. Always with a Rick Steves book. Wouldn't leave home without one. Not only has my view of the world become much bigger and more clear, it's wonderful to see our daughter actually being engaged in this year's presidential election because of what she has seen and learned by traveling. Needless to say, she is becoming quite the liberal.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if one of our high school requirements for graduation would be to travel to Europe. What kind of America would we have then? A much more tolerant and knowledgeable society, I'd say.
Jean
Minneapolis, USA Fri 10/01/2004
Thanks, Dad!
My dad has since passed away, but I owe it all to him. When I was an obnoxious 16 year old, I said: "Dad, buy me a car!" He responded: "No. But if you can show me that you can hold down a job and save enough for your own car, I will buy you a plane ticket to Europe and a Eurorail pass!" What a wise man! He must have suspected that my life would be changed forever.
After that first classic 1970's backpacking trip across Europe there was no stopping me. My life became guided by two stars: (1) Travel, and (2) be part of the solution, not the problem. Years later, I took the "Rick Steves pledge" (as found in the early pages of his book "Postcards from Europe") to try to travel to Europe every year. As I was living in an east coast city, I was often able to find a super-cheap February airfare and spend (usually) a 4 day weekend in Europe every year.
Then an amazing thing happened: after years of "dues paying" and working in one direction, I finally got a job offer in Europe! To quote Cinderella: Dreams do come true! I'm 45 now, but the wait just made it all the sweeter. After almost a year here, I still love it: I can't get enough of the open air markets, historic buildings & living history, and walking through the vineyards and forests. How has travel changed me? I think that, without my Dad's gift, I probably wouldn't be as open-minded and flexible. I might not have learned to love history, geography, languages and "unusual" foods. Most of all, I am happy to be able to give my 2 young kids the opportunity to experience life on this side of the pond. I am bursting with pride at how quickly they are picking up a second language. I don't deserve my good fortune, but thank God and Thank you Dad!
Thomas
Vienna, Austria Wed 09/29/2004
Travel bonuses
I think traveling to foreign countries had made me more humble (ok so I don't know how to pronounce my dinner order), enhanced my sense of humor, and it has made me realize that though the USA is my country of choice it doesn't mean someone is wrong if they prefer their own country. I also am awed by how much history some countries have compared to our very young country's.
I work in Washington DC, so I think my own travels have helped me be more tolerant of and patient with the many foreigners who visit our nation's capitol. Hopefully the people who've met me return home and talk about how helpful Americans are.
Ann
Annapolis, MD USA Tue 09/28/2004
It's Your Fault, Rick!
I took my first trip with the help of Rick's ETBD book back in 1995. I haven't stopped travling since. I've since become an ESL teacher (English as a Second Language) and now I wander the world, working, playing, learning, eating, drinking, studying, teaching. I'll probably never go home. It's all your fault, Rick.
Jeff
USA Sun 09/26/2004
Travel is therapy.It searches the traveler's mind, diagnoses all his problems and immediately begins curing them. When you emerge from travel, you appreciate things like art and architecture. Your perspective on time expands. Your are struck by the similarities between cultures, not the differences.
Bob
CO USA Sun 09/26/2004
Traveling Enhances Life
My first trip to Europe as an adult (my father had taken me, as a teen, to Spain for 3 weeks 30 years before) was in November, 2000. I was already a regular watcher of your shows at that time, Rick, (in fact, I got to hear you speak just a few weeks before the trip-- you told me to write an article about my planned musical journey, but I regret to say I never followed through with that), so your UK and London books were my primary resources, and they served me very well. I packed as lightly as I could, and I did bring my fiddle with me (as I have on all my trips since then.) I stayed at Aster House in London, and at Dunedin House in Edinburgh, and enjoyed both very much.
I initially went to meet an internet boyfriend. Although that friendship has not endured, I can't be sad, because it motivated me to make my long-dreamed-of trip to England and Scotland, and I've returned each November since then. Watching UK television is a real eye-opener (the slant on US happenings... the late-night nudity, etc etc.) You really don't know how the rest of the world views the USA until you leave the USA and look back across the pond with your new friends. (Hmm, I leave for my next trip on Nov 6, and I may have to pretend I'm a Canadian, depending on how the election turns out!) I'll never complain about gasoline prices again, for one thing!
My trip to Spain all those years ago had opened my eyes to the great realization which you have pointed out on your shows and in your books -- and which I think can only be fully comprehended with international travel-- that some whole countries do things completely differently than Americans do, and it works quite well, thank you very much! (Some examples: the food, the coffee, the afternoon siesta, the 9PM dinner, etc etc.)
So when I got to the UK, I was somewhat ready for the culture shock (and I find it fascinating.) I would say that these trips, as an adult mostly traveling alone, have brought me many wonderful experiences I never expected to have, especially my experiences in Scotland. I think traveling solo has been a blessing, making me reach out, by necessity, to locals more than I might do if I were with a companion.
In preparation for the trip I was just checking your website for travel supplies and book updates, and saw that you are looking for comments from folks whose lives have changed as a result of travel using your books. My life has certainly been greatly enriched by my travels, and your books continue to help show me the way. More than anything, I appreciate your philosophy or attitude that (hope you feel I'm accurate here) travel shrinks the world and leads to greater possibilities of cooperation in sharing and caring for this beautiful planet and all its inhabitants. I feel much less USA-centered now, and have seriously considered moving to the UK. And it's such a great feeling when I read books or hear news stories which mention areas or landmarks (such as the Strand in London)and I can see it in my mind, because I've been there!
I was one of the volunteers (I was doing tallying) at Oregon Public Broadcasting two weeks ago when you were live in the studio, and I didn't have a chance to talk to you then, so I offer these comments now. Thanks.
Marjorie Millner
Vancouver, WA USA Sat 09/25/2004
Travel
Travel has now become the highlight of my life, and a direct contributor is ETBD. I have always had the travel bug and dreamed of going to Europe. My inspiration for travel comes from my parents. I am an Air Force Brat, well at least until age 12, but managed to travel around the US with my parents and family trips were always big events.
Fast forward 25 or 30 years, married, raising three kids, building my career?but never seemed to have the time or money to travel. As our 20th wedding anniversary approached, my wife and I decided it was time to just take the plunge. I had a brother who was stationed in Germany with the Air Force at the time, so we could pop in and out of his place, so the question was really ?where all should we go?? We also had many questions and concerns about language barriers, getting around, where to stay, where to eat, on and on. It was really by accident that I found the ETBD Best of Europe book, but two minutes of reading in the bookstore, and I was sold.
With confidence, we set out on our first real trip (3 and a half weeks), neither of us had been out of the US before, my wife had never even been out of the Midwest and her first plane ride was to Europe. We had a blast, and can directly attribute our successful travel skills to Rick Steves.
It was on the breakwater in Vernazza, over a bottle of wine, watching the sun set, that we made a pact that we would travel at least every two years. We are back from our third trip, and planning a trip to Greece next year for our 25th anniversary. Life for us has finally become a journey, not a grind. Our several weeks of intense living each trip has made us look for ?Travel moments? in everyday life.
I hear concerns from friends about travel, about safety, about having the skills to do it, about the cost; but you really need to decide to just do it, and then experience it the best you can, even make it up as you go. As for cost, travel for me is a priority. I can drive my ?78 Chevy pickup and put the equivalent of a car payment in the bank, it doesn?t bother me, the sacrifices are worth the payback. Is travel able to change your life? For me, it gave me a life back.
Paul
IA USA Wed 09/22/2004
Learning from Europe
Traveling through Europe the Rick Steve's way gives you a much more intimate understanding of what's going on in the world. Talking with with Europeans about politics is easier there and they enjoy it. Reading the newspapers over there you learn about things going on in America that you don't learn from our media. Sometimes I see Europeans as elderly and wise parents that look at America and can honestly say, "been there, done that" politically, especially now with current U.S. politics. I get a much stronger sense of community in Europe than I do here. Amercians have a lot to learn from European history.
Dan O'Connell
Seattle, WA USA Sun 09/19/2004
New Appreciation for History / New Interests
I took Rick's weeklong tour in London last year, and was overcome by the history that surrounded me everywhere. We took a tour of the War Cabinet Rooms, and that sparked a new interest in WWII -- since then, I've read everything I could about how London citizens endured the Blitz. I've also picked up a lot of old travel books and picture books about London. I was really struck by a photo of a large protest in Trafalgar Square, with a sign railing against British troop involvement in the Mideast -- and the photo was over 50 years old!
Now that I will be going to Paris, I've started reading all about the occupation of Paris during WWII. I'm discovering new insights into how the politics of today are still affected by events of past decades and centuries. So, yes, travel has changed me... I never really liked learning about history before, but now I have a thirst for it!
Sue
Philadelphia, PA USA Fri 09/17/2004
Enriched Life via locals in Europe
I grew up in a very sheltered environment, mingling only with my own community - with no "outsiders". As I got older, I left my old lifestyle and started discovering the world, which included traveling. My first trip was to Paris, France, of course, with Rick Steve's guidebook in hand. I took his advice to not only check out the landmarks and tourist places, but to see the inside streets and experience the local culture. Since then, I've become addicted to traveling and learn about other cultures. I stay in youth hostels or pensions.
In youth hostels, I meet the most extraordinary people from all over the world. I met a retired teacher from Croatia to an 80 year old, adorable woman from South Africa. I feel like talking with the locals, has enriched my life no text book would ever teach me. I've become one RICH woman and I encourage everyone to do the same. Traveling makes one a more tolerant and compassionate person.
Dee
West Orange, NJ USA Thu 09/16/2004
Everyday is something new!
Travelling has broadened my perspective about people and living life in general. We have much to learn from our neighbors, for example, driving energy efficient cars, using far less throw away products, walking more, eating food from local markets, enjoying music and art more,and on and on. Our country is young and we are not always the best at everything but there is no place like home....thanks for all the wonderful tips, Rick, we have had so much fun seeking out remote beer gardens or restaurants and the lodging is always good with fellow travelers to visit with. Happy travels to all!
Patty
Eureka, USA Thu 09/16/2004
Has Travel Changed My Life?
Has travel changed my life? Wow, what a question! I could go on and on with this subject!In spring 1999 I lived in a cubicle in corporate America. My vacation had accumulated to its maximum amount because I never went anywhere, and I was in a "use it or lose it" situation. The only foreign countries I had seen was Mexico and Canada. One of my co-workers pointed me to Rick Steves web site.
After a little investigation, I decided to give it a shot and signed up for Rick's Best of Europe tour. I made plans to meet up with a couple friends and travel Britain when this tour wrapped up in Paris. In total I spent five weeks in Europe. These were the most "eye-opening" five weeks of my life. I realized that there is so much out there to see and experience! The world is a huge place, filled with so many interesting people! People with lifestyles so vastly different from ours!
When I returned from this trip, I had totally forgotten about all the stupid little problems of my work life. I couldn't even remember my passwords to log onto the computer! I walked into the office and told all of my co-workers of my new goal in life: "I am going to set foot on every continent in the world. Including Antarctica!"
Since then I have been to the Caribbean Islands, Greece, Nepal, China, New Zealand, Fiji, Bahamas, Costa Rica, Alaska (twice), and I am making plans for Argentina and Chile this winter!
I still work in corporate America. But my biggest problem now is accumulating enough vacation time (and money) to experience all these places in the world that I feel I need to see! I now spend more money on traveling than I do on my home, my car or anything else, and I am HAPPY about that! The memories are worth more than a big house or a big screen TV!And it all started with Rick's Best of Europe tour.
Some day I will go on another ETBD tour, but for right now, I have to explore beyond Europe. Australia, Africa, and Antarctica are still calling me to achieve my goal!
Jon Markwardt
Gresham, OR USA Mon 09/13/2004
How has travel changed me?
I also feel more at home in many places in Europe that in the US. Every time I am stuck in a traffic jam of large cars and SUVs with one occupant, I long for the efficient public transportation systems in Europe. When I realize that I have not spoken to my neighbors for months because we are too "busy" sitting in front of the TV, I long for the squares and sidewalk cafes. And when I run through the grocery store after having put off shopping as long as possible, I remember the wonderful food stalls on market days in a small village. European travel has made me realize there is another way of doing things than the "right" way we do it here in the states.
Dell
Jamestown, NC USA Fri 09/10/2004
Has travel changed you?
Thanks to Rick's excellent guide books, I took my first trip to Europe in 1999 and loved it! My husband and I went to Germany, Austria and Italy that first trip. We have been back to Europe 5 times since then and have been to France and England as well as going back to Germany and Austria! We have taken our daughter with us the last 5 times, starting when she was 6 years old! I have also taken a week-long tour of Paris through Rick's guided tours. That was a wonderful experience.
Because of my experiences in Europe I have discovered my love of history and have gone back to college to earn my bachelors degree in history. Thanks for the memories and unbelievable experinces!
Tina
Ft. Collins, CO USA Wed 09/08/2004
Rick's tours and books
I dreamed of travelling to Europe all my life. I finally achieved it in late middle-age, thanks to Rick Steves. First it was his travel shows that really inspired me -- with the idea of becoming a "temporary local" - blending in and being reapectuful of the country you are visiting, and staying in small hotels in the center of town, not expecting everything to be like it is in the USA, etc. His philosophy really resonated with me.
Then I went to his website and saw his tour packages. I signed up for a weeklong Paris tour, and even though I had to fly there 1 1/2 months after 911 in October 2001), I did not cancel, and it was the best decision I have ever made. I had a wonderful time. Prior to the tour, I went to London for a few days. I got Rick's London guide and went on my own. I took the Chunnel train to Paris with no problem.
I felt like I was in a dream world, it was all so great, and easy! When I returned home I told all my friends and family who could not quite get it together to accompany me the first time, that they had to go to Europe. I was so homesick for Paris I returned there in Oct 2002 -- this time with my sister. We did London and Paris again on our own just using Rick's guides (and what I had learned on the Paris tour) and we both had a wonderful, life-changing time. We are now European travel fanatics.
I took my son to Paris earlier this year, and my sister and I will be on Rick's Venice tour in a couple of months, then we will venture to Florence on our own. I like travelling on my own or with a companion, but I am also looking forward to being part of another ETBD city tour.
My ex-husband and a long-time friend had to go urope (also for the first time) on business in June, and I got them Rick's books on Amsterdam and Paris. They both had a wonderful, sucessful trip with them, and they appreciated Rick's travel philosopny. They agree, he does travel the right way. I now want myself, and everyone I know visit more and more places in Europe, and ETBD will be where we turn for our major information and help. (I hate to be a commercial for ETBD in this post -- but I must acknowledge what is true). I live in a beautiful city, San Francisco, but the beauty of Paris amazes and inspires me. I cannot imagine not going there many more times -- and think I may feel the same about Venice and Florence very soon.
I love history, art, culture, shopping, dining, and learning about other people and cultures, and know there is lots more that I have to see.Rick opened the door to all the riches that Europe has to offer for me, and it will never be closed again. This has added a wonderful new dimension to my life.
B. Golden
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 09/08/2004
Savoring life
How has travel changed me?
What I've learned is that there's a lot more to life than working, working, working so you can enjoy those few weeks of vacation that you've earned! In Italy I've seen how I believe life "should" be lived...
Every day "should" be savored- from the moment we arise to see the sun come up...that first cafe Americano in the morning...the simple croissant or waffle you have for breakfast...the music you may listen to on the way to work- look off to the horizon, the Rocky Mountains are right there and gosh, there's a dusting of snow! That relationships with co-workers and customers can be "slowed down" and that caring is a part of service. All of that and more.
As a somewhat "typical" working American, I believed that hard work, nose to the grindstone, maximum efficiency was the way to go. We are the most productive people on this earth. Hard work is ok, but we only have so much time on this planet- we need to maximize every day- be open to all possibilities for the new, enjoying and savoring every moment, every morsel of food, every breath of fresh air, every scent of a flower. We may not pass this way again! That's what travel has given me.
Tony Caliendo
Thornton, CO USA Mon 09/06/2004
Forever Changed In Venice
I was 14 years old when my mother and I went to Italy in 1989. We traveled with a big tour group, and were basically shuffled around from sight to sight from Milan to Naples and back, staying in one place no longer than a night or two. Our last night was in Venice, and I ***begged*** my tentative mom to wander around with me after dinner, when most of our weary group limped zombie-like off to bed. We walked through San Marco Square, where a group of Italian teenagers were passing around a bottle of wine and singing Beatles songs, trying their best to sing the English lyrics, with hit-or-miss results.
My mom and I love the Beatles, so at my urging, we decided to approach them and see if we could join in. We ended up belting out tunes with them for over 2 hours, teaching them the lyrics and getting quite buzzed. I don't remember much about the Colliseum, the Leaning Tower, or the Accademia, but I can still picture the flushed faces and smiles of that night, and singing "Help!" with the crowd. At that young age, in those two hours, I realized that I would become a lifetime traveler and citizen of the world.
The experience of transcending nationality, politics, language, and social status is so enriching--it's an opportunity to leave your comfort zone and get to know yourself. My life was irreversibly changed that night in Venice, and I continue to gain insight into myself and the world every time I leave the country and thrust myself into another culture. I leave for Europe again on Monday and am excitedly bracing myself for the impact this trip will inevitably have on my life.
Stephanie
SF, CA USA Sat 09/04/2004