Unless you speak the language--French, German, Spainish, Italian, Portugese--you are not getting anything close to a fair sample of what Europeans are thinking. You skew the sample if you only speak with ESL Europeans: very few working class, very few people over the age of 50, in fact very few people that are not involved with the tourist trade. How many of you have had deep political discussions with the guy driving the shuttle bus from the airport?

I guarantee you outside of Great Britain, Rick has never really talked politics with a European. He is blissful in his ignorance of even one of the beautiful languages of the continent of Europe. After 25 years of travel in Europe I find that sad. Hundreds of days a year in Europe is great but unless you can converse beyond "pointing at your camera and saying "photo?" you will not come to know the mind of the real Europe.
MDOU
Denver, CO   USA   08/16/02

Bush is not my leader. He happens to lead this country at the moment, much to my dismay, but I am not required to bow down to him or automatically support his policies. His success as a president is yet to be decided. Once again, you are entitled to your opinion, something you seem to want to deny Rick and anybody else who disagrees with you. Let me remind you that this is Rick's web site and he is free (do you remember what that word means?) to express any views he wants on it. He allows others to post their opinions on the Graffiti Wall, so you and like-minded posters are expressing the other side. It is your right not to read it. No one is cramming Rick's views down your throat, not even your local PBS station. Please use your freedoms as you see fit and allow the rest of us the same privilege.
Susan
Odessa, FL   USA   08/16/02

Here is probably the crux of my concern and what I take issue with. Rick has used his web site which is supposed to be travel advice to espouse his political views and made the site one of political agenda. I would have, as it appears the majority of the poters would have felt, more comfortable if he would have given a balanced perspective such as having someone who has a dissimilar view from him on the staff give their side as well. No conservative likes liberal view points crammed down their throat and vice versa.

I just think there would have been a better acceptance if there were two view points and two sets of facts from which to draw. I read his column and was intensely angered. Alhtough I had a mediocre feeling about some of his topics after I finished the entire piece I was so anti Rick that even if I had some liberal thinking on issues such as global warming I was going to come down on the side of a more conservative view point.

Again all I am saying is don't use the power you have just to push your agenda or you are no better than the people you are mocking and criticizing .

And enough of the Bush campaign get over it- he is a great leader and as Al Gore said "He is my commander in chief and yours" so if he can be gracious why can't others?
Arthur
Ga   USA   08/16/02

I am a middle-aged homemaker and mother of two teenagers with a college degree, post graduate work, and a teaching certificate. I read several online newspapers every day (including international papers), and go to many different web sites for information. I am a news and C-SPAN junkie (my husband even gave me a satellite radio for Christmas so I could listen to C-SPAN while I carpool).

And, I have traveled fairly extensively through Europe and the Middle East over the past 30 years. I proudly admit that I am a liberal and perhaps I do seek out sources that support my way of thinking. Doesn't everyone? Obviously you do the same since the sources you reference are the Wall Street Journal op-ed page and the Washington Times. I am quite familiar with all of the issues you mention. I, like many other people in this country, just happen to have a different view. Is this a crime? ...or unpatriotic in George Bush's America? I think not! You must realize that your way of thinking is not the only way of thinking and that sometimes other people might be right.
Susan
Odessa, FL   USA   08/16/02

I have to admit that I have never been a huge fan of Bush and was always sceptical of many of his positions...mostly his positions of social issues.

But, after traveling to Europe, talking to friends there and listening and reading their media...I have to say my attitude toward Bush has changed drastically. I respect him a lot more because he is willing to stand up to immense international pressure. I don't always agree with everything, I respect that steadfastness...somehing we dearly need in wartime.

One more thing, Europe's stance in the whole Middel East issue has completely turned me off on their other positions. Their basically terroristic sympatheis is so grossly unmoral and repulsive, it's really hard to take anything they say at face value. How can one support a group of suicidal terrorists who celebrate when their children kill themselves aboard buses and inside city cafes?
Josh
Arlington, VA   USA   08/15/02

I am for helping third world countries with debt but no one should get a free ride; I am for signing international treaties if we are not held to a higher standard because we do so much nor are we going to box ourselves into something we cannot live with like the ICC and Kyoto and arms control; I am all for helping control AIDS in Africa when the men start wearing condoms and the women refuse to have sex with men who don't wear condoms and I am all for revisting our middle east policy when our Arab friends stop blowing themselves up like 4th of July fire crackers. It's great to do group hugs and kumbaya but it also is nice to leave my home and not worry about being blow to bits on the bus or at the supermarket (yet). And if I was a young person thinking of joining the military and knew I could be held accountable by some other countries laws for my peace keeping efforts that may be in apposit to the US I would not join. I personally don't think much of foreign jails (ever seen Midnight Express or Eed Corner?)
Arthur
GA   USA   08/15/02

As an American living in Spain, I can only say that we as a nation really need to wake up and pay attention for a change to the rest of the world! The Bush admin is refusing to sign any international treaties, forgive debts, tackle AIDS in Africa, and re-examine our foreign policies in the Middle East. I am an extreme liberal and I believe America can do a better job of taking care of its own people as well as taking an active part in what is going on in the rest of the world. I am afraid by the end of the Bush term, the world will be tired of the US and will start looking at Canada and Europe for guidence and help in international conflicts.
Marcy
Los Angeles , CA   USA   08/15/02

The article about International Court of Justice is at http://washingtontimes.com/world/20020813-660018.htm titled EU warns against US Immunity
Arthur
  USA   08/15/02

To those who love Great Britain and find they are not as vocal as the continent. The British have their own problems with immigration that tends to make them a little more understanding of our positions. The only thing I found was that many disagreed with our politics regarding Isreal-Palistine.

Of course the USA Today is voicing Rick's concerns, it is a liberal left wing newspaper. Try reading the Wall Street Journal (especially the op ed section) and compare the two views. Most newspapers are left oriented and that is why we have to seek out our own information from other sources or as many varied sources of news reporting as possible.

One of the hot topics is the EU fighting us over exempting our soldiers who are peace keepers from falling under the jurisdiction of the new International COurt of Criminal Justice. Big thing about this- some US papers side with the EU- Wall Street Journal ran a great piece the other day and basically said- you don't want to exempt us then let's get our boys out of there. The EU should not be dictating our international policy to us- we are doing Europe a favor being there- let the Germans and French send in their people fine with me and we can bring our guys home or send them other places to knock out the Al Quaeda.

Liberals of course seek validation from liberal left sources such as the press. However we all need to do our own research and decide what is best in our opionion. Go to some of the university sites and read published papers or go to government sites and read published reports then go to the newspaper and see how they slant and distort things.
Arthur
  USA   08/15/02

Perhaps we should all re-read Rick's post and then check out the front page of USA Today (8/14/02). That article pretty much echos Rick's points. We need to be aware of how others view Americans whether we agree with those views or not. We ignore them at our own peril. Our world is too interconnected for us to ignore the criticisms of our friends and allies.
Susan
Odessa, FL   USA   08/14/02

I have yet to go to Europe (will next summer) but have been to Canada and had many discussions with friends from various parts there - So here's my two cents. I know that everyone have their own opinions about all these areas in the discussions, but I am of the thinking that they have their's & I have mine and we can agree to disagree. I know that our Country is not the best (but who can say that theirs is best either?) All countries have problems and their good / bad sides, I can accept that & Go to other countries to experience those differences and find the areas that we are the same.

I may not agree how my goverment handles everything, but I still have freedoms and a lifestyle that I am happy to live with. I see a lot of people coming to the US to make a better life for themselves & family -If our way of life is sooooo terrible, why do people come here? I am looking forward to visiting Great Britain next year & if someone wants to pick on the country I am from - I would ask if they have ever been there or met the people (outside of major cities - NY, ....) If they have spent time here, then I would willing to share ideas - Otherwise not.
Carolyn
Hughson, CA   USA   08/14/02

How surprising that Rick's very moderate comments are seen by so many as "left wing." A sign of the times, I guess. Based on the response here, one might conclude that Rick's principles (whether one shares them or not) are gutsy, but make a bad business strategy. Why risk turning people off?

Rick's idea, as I understand it, is that travel is not just about consuming fun. Travel broadens, makes connections, challenges. So, Rick's "business" is not only about selling books or tours, it is also about making connections and challenges. Re-read the last paragraph of Rick's opening essay. As the man said, "More than ever, we need to travel-to learn, discuss, and listen to many different points of view."
Adam
Boston, MA   USA   08/13/02

I don't really want to talk politics while I'm on vacation. If it happens, oh, well. But I'm not going to go looking for it.

For the record, I pretty much fell off the right end of the spectrum, and, oddly enough, one of my closest friends is a socialist. Imagine those debates! To top it off, she's English, so I've got a pretty good idea of where we (the USA) stands in many Europeans' view. We talk, we debate, we even argue (rarely), then we agree to disagree. That's the only way we can stay friends. And I think that's how we need to deal with anyone (here or abroad, wherever that may be) who doesn't agree with us. It's not exactly a "why can't we all just get along?" approach, but it's an understanding that you're not going to change their mind.

One quick note about us evil conservatives. We're not all that evil. Nope, I didn't want Kyoto ratified, but, if the Smart Car ever makes it to the USA, I'll probably get one for my kids for high school/ college. Nope, I don't want the US to forgive Third World debt, but I support anyone who tries to make the lives of the poor in those nations better. Yes, I think we've got the best thing going here in the US, but if the people (and not some half-baked dictator) wants a different form of government, then I say "more power to them." I will probably get an SUV in the near future (kids, sports, and Boy Scouts take up a lot of space in a vehicle), but I conserve energy whenever possible.

I'm not going to argue who should have won the 2000 election, or whether the US should become more globalist or more isolationist. I'm just going to suggest that, if you choose to engage in political conversations, here or abroad, know your FACTS (not what someone else told you was the facts) and know WHY you believe what you believe. And go into it knowing that you'll just have to agree to disagree.
Beth
Leander, TX   USA   08/12/02

Hello there from southern US. I'm slowly reading the politics "graffiti" and haven't yet reached the "beginning" of the conversation so am fascinated, but confused. Is there a theme or context ? My interest in Rick Steves tours comes from years of living overseas (lke many of you I'm sure) as a former Peace Corps Volunteer etc et al. I find the very fact he is interested enough in combining his business with a philosophy and lifestyle he clearly espouses, riveting. I hope to be able to continue this conversation as I begin to understand the themes within it. I'll be taking my 2nd tour this year and I am not a tour person. The ETBD staff and Rick Steves himself have helped to reinforce my own belief that Americans are an incredible resource when we access our enthusiasm, sense of what liberty and citizen responsibility means.
Ellis
Virginia Beach, VA   USA   08/12/02

Rick was in Atlanta this weekend for a PBA pledge drive and usually I wait until he is here to renew my membership and receive his books as my gift. This year after 5 years of contributing to PBA when he is here is the first time I refused to contribute on his watch due to his political agenda published in June. If he does not want to support American I don't want to support him.

I love going to Europe as much as the next guy but I am not going to give up my values or put a dent in my economy to be more like them or please them. I will continue to visit but as they say it's a great place to visit but I would not want to live there.
Arthur
Atlanta, Ga   USA   08/12/02

So Rick may not be totally accurate in his historical narratives...At least he sparks interest in the subject matter which encourages people like me to dig out my encyclopedias and history books when I get back home. His entertaining style of writing in Mona Winks helped us keep the attention of 10 and 11 year old boys while we trudged through major European museums on their first trip abroad. They were especially captivated by the stories of Van Gogh, and one of them even requested a poster of one of his paintings for his bedroom when we got back home. Rick's interactions with Europeans have given him an insight that can't be learned from a visit to the library. His love of different cultures and his enthusiasm have done more to educate the traveling public than most history courses ever could.
Susan
Odessa, FL   USA   08/10/02

Claims that Rick Steves' opinions are worthwhile because they are informed by over 25 years of European travel raises a question, how much do you really learn about Europe's history by spending time there?

Take his travel guide, Spain and Portugal 2002. Like Steves' other books, it contains a wealth of good information and travel tips. Then one turns to page 143's discussion of a room in the Alhambra:

"For four years Isabel had put off Columbus as she focused on the Reconquista. That accomplished, Isabel and Ferdinand finally received Columbus in this room. Imagine the scene: The king, queen, and the greatest minds from the University of Salamanca gathered here to hear Columbus make his case that the world was round – then a still-loony notion that got people burned a few years earlier. Ferdinand and the professors laughed, calling Columbus mad."

The laugh is on Rick Steves. He is repeating what historian Daniel Boorstin called a "vulgar legend." By the 15th century educated Europeans knew that the world was round. The debate between Columbus and the experts was over the size of the world, not its shape. Spanish (and earlier Portuguese) experts resisted the Enterprise of the Indies because they believed that Columbus had drastically underestimated the size of the world. As it turned out, Columbus was wrong and the experts were mostly right; Columbus underestimated the distance westward from the Canary Islands to Japan by 8,000 nautical miles. If he hadn't unexpectedly landed in the New World, Columbus and his crew would have perished at sea. Despite his time in Europe, Rick Steves' knowledge on this matter is less than what could be found at the local library. (Back in the 1980s my tour guide in Granada got this right.)

While everyone has freedom of expression, opinions are not valuable unless they're supported by facts. Readers are not well-served by opinions from an author who is indifferent to historical facts. In particular, Europe 101 needs a historian to fact-check its information. Next year check the new versions of the books to see if anything has changed.
leslein
alexandria, VA   USA   08/09/02

My original post did not say that America took on Nazi Germany or the Soviet Union alone. Nor did it say that the U.S. didn't benefit from the eventual victory. It's indisputable that left on its own Europe could not have held off the Soviet Union or Nazi Germany. And if Europeans had been so superior at geopolitics, these dictatorships wouldn't have caused as much trouble and grief as they did.

As far as my personal role, I performed arduous sea duty on several Navy surface combatant ships during the Cold War. This included deployments in the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans as well as the Caribbean and Mediterranean.

To the best of my knowledge Rick Steves did not mention one instance where he disagreed with the Europeans. I will say that it's to his credit that this site includes very critical posts. P.S. As long as I'm here, below is some more information for responding to European complaints:

Population control -- Recently it was reported that the United Nations partially funded a program in Peru that forcibly sterilized 200,000 poor women.

Land mines -- American land mines used to protect our troops are "smart" devices that can be programmed to automatically deactivate. The only U.S. "conventional" land mines are in the DMZ in Korea. These mines are absolutely essential for defending U.S. troops and S. Korea. Europeans would do better spending their time removing old land mines.

International Criminal Court -- Under International Law a treaty is only supposed to apply to countries that ratify it. It's the Europeans that are trying to impose on us.

Opportunism in energy policy -- In the 1980s the Europeans financed a pipeline to import cheap natural gas from the Soviet Union, and provide that dictatorship with much needed hard currency.
leslein
Alexandria, VA   USA   08/09/02

Ah, C'mon Rick. I've been traveling to Europe for as long as you have and can't remember a time when I wasn't on the receiving end of some European diatribe on this or that aspect of American politics that met with disfavor. Remember Vietnam? Remember the "nuclear freeze" movement and all the hubbub over stationing of Pershing II's and air-launched cruise missiles in Europe? The litany changes but there is always one there. These days it is: the Kyoto Treaty, the International Criminal Court, Israel, Iraq, and the all-encompassing (crypto-anti-American) movement against "globallization." To which I say, so what?

Rick, you strike me as having been brow-beaten by too many European harangues over the year. In his classic book "Painted in Blood: Understanding Europeans" Stuart Miller makes the point that Europeans have long engaged in political discussions as bloodsport. It is a take-no-prisoners style that is often unsettling to Americans. It is my experience that even left-leaning folks highly critical of their government (as I tend to be) tend to reverse course abroad in the face of the relentless, unnuanced attacks on American policies and culture encountered there. Nobody likes to be perpetually on the defensive. So, while not defending EVERYTHING my government does, I nevertheless tend to make the strongest case I can for the American perspective. I can play that take-no-prisoners game too!

The simple fact is that Europe and America ARE growing further and further apart. Europe has largely abandoned the old power game in favor of mutual cooperation and integration. Good for them! But as the sole remaining superpower, the USA still has to play the power game in a global environment that is still pretty rough and hostile. We thus often have to play the role of the heavy and almost nobody likes "the heavy." This is the way it is going to be for the forseeable future, regardless of whether Republicans or Democrats control the White House. The Europeans may not like this but they are going to have to get used to it. And, as travelers to Europe, we Americans will just have to adjust to the turbulence this creates and make our case as best we can.
Heraclitus
A small town in New England,    USA   08/07/02

I have already stated my opinion that while I disagree to some degree with Rick's leftward leanings and believe he should keep politics and religion out of business, I do think we should cut Rick some slack. If Rick and ETBD is ever bought out by Microsoft or somesuch, we can all insist that he keep politics out of business. Until then it needs to be recognized that Rick not only provides unparalleled travel info but also that he has kept his company small and attentive to the individual. That is a rare accomplishment. Most entrepreneurs would have long ago sold out his business AND US. He trusts us enough to bring this subject up and deserves our respect in turn.

I read the Graffiti Wall practically every day and contribute to it often. One thing I have noticed about ETBD posters, that's all us, is that we are a more intelligent group than you will see posting on the web anywhere else. I get hundreds of requests for travel help from Rick's readers and visitors to the Wall and I have never gotten a stupid, rude or immature email from anyone. I think we all deserve a hand and Rick and his team certainly do.
Charles M. Luther
Katy, Tx   USA   08/06/02

People often are ignorant about current events and take sides based on what they hear from the press. The press in the US is clearly biased towards the left. Unfortuately it is mostly the same in Europe. People need to think through the issues to their logical conclusion and definitely consider the source. Leslein provides a good example of thinking things through to their logical conclusions. I bet many who read his post never have heard that side of those issues before. It was good to hear from Patrick, and in leslein's defense, I don't think he meant that America saved his country at the exclusion of the other Allies. Keep up the discussion!
SZ
Flower Mound, TX   USA   08/06/02

There are just too many prejudices and wrong assumptions about Europeans in this forum. The recent post from Leslein is a typical example. I quote: "Never let them (the Europeans) forget that if it wasn't for us (the Americans), they'd be living under Nazi or Communist rule".

I am a 42-year old Belgian. I know, deep in the heart, how much we owe to the American soldiers who so efficiently contributed to the liberation of my country in 1944. Bastogne and the Battle of the Bulge are still present in every Belgian mind. But I know also how much the Belgians contributed to their own liberation. I could give you many names of relatives or family members who suffered in Nazi camps or died in the Resistance. It is the same Resistance who ensured that the Antwerp harbour, a crucial asset in conducting the war to victory, fell intact in Allies' hands. A Belgian brigade was part of the Normandy landing and liberated the French cities of Deauville and Cabourg. Why do you think these cities have a "Boulevard des Belges"? World War II was won by the Allies, not by the Americans single-handed. To constantly ignore this fact is an insult to the multitude of Europeans who resisted and fought the nazi's. Similar stories exist for all occupied countries.

Furthermore, the defence against the Warsaw Pact was a collective endeavour of all NATO members, not just the United States. When I was 23, I was drafted in the Belgian Army, who maintained throughout the cold war an army corps, staffed with draftees, at the border between the two Germanies. Many young Belgians did their duty in this collective effort, and were not offered the option to refuse. Other NATO countries, the Netherlands, France, UK, even Luxembourg, also had permanent troops watching the East border, alongside US units. So don't tell us that we owe our freedom to you. While protecting the eastern border, we contributed to the safety of both Europe and North-America.

Finally, if the American objective was to restore democracy, then why don't you accept that we exercise our freedom and express our viewpoint? It is a fact that Europe and the United States cannot possibly agree on all topics. To express our differences is not to hate the United States. If Americans want to silence us each time we have a different view, then the whole purpose of restoring freedom is defeated. We also have legitimate interests and valid points.

The next time an American wants to lecture me about "owing my freedom to him", I'll ask him whether he was wearing a uniform back in 1944.
Patrick
  Belgium   08/06/02

Rick Steves is right that visitors to Europe should expect complaints about America. The problem is that he lacks the knowledge or inclination to respond properly. Below is some helpful information.

When Europeans complain that we pulled out of the Kyoto treaty on global warming, mention that we never ratified it in the first place. Ask "What global warming?" and point out that air temperatures show no warming trend in the last 20 years. Mention that complying with Kyoto could cause a depression. Tell them to go to www.spectator.co.uk and search for Andrew Kenny's article on global warming. Point out that Enron wanted us to implement the Kyoto treaty. Do a little research and you can find serious flaws with the other treaties mentioned.

Point out that if our policies are so opportunistic we wouldn't be supporting Israel. Remind them that we're supporting a democracy while they're basically backing Palestinian terrorists. Ask them why they didn't speak up more when we got Israel to offer the Palestinians all of Gaza, much of Jerusalem, and 97% of the West Bank. Remind them that Palestinians murdered 5 Americans last week and cheered the mass murder of Americans last September. Mention that if it wasn't for the Arabs' desire to destroy Israel, there would have been a Palestinian state over 50 years ago. Ask them to point out to the Palestinians that the world is a cruel place for people who start wars, lose wars, and refuse to make terms. Remind them that for obvious reasons, Jews aren't inclined to trust their security to Europeans. If you're in Norway, ask when Arafat's Nobel Peace prize will be revoked.

Remind Europeans that it isn't a "handful" of Cuban exiles that drive the Cuban embargo. The embargo has been enforced by presidents from both parties and has substantial Congressional support. Mention that it's not a "no-winners-only-losers" policy; if the embargo were dropped almost all the money would go to Castro and be used to stir up trouble. The Cubans would get very little. Tell the Europeans that if the Communists cede power, the embargo will be lifted.

We suffered thousands of deaths, spent hundreds of billions of dollars, and risked nuclear war to protect and defend Europe. Never let them forget that if it wasn't for us, they'd be living under Nazi or Communist rule. Ask if America is really a bigger concern to Europeans than al Qaeda. The least they can do for us is keep out of the way when we fight terrorists.
leslein
Alexandria, VA   USA   08/05/02

JP- I guess you can't win with the Europeans- they were critical when Bush was moving toward isolationism, yet they want us to go away. Where would they be without our computer genius, chip genius, telecommunication genius and from whom do they buy their air transport. If we went away then I guess so too would their leap into the twenty first century n'est pas?

There are things I love about America that I could never live without and there are things I love about Europe that I would love to adopt. Blending cultures and ideas- I love Italy's old villas but don't want to give up my air conditioning. I love Ireland's landscape but don't want to give up my washer dryer unit. I love the Netherlands flat lands but don't want to give up super wal-mart or Kroger. There are always trade offs. I could live without my 3,000 square foot house if I could have a home in the Cotswolds.

I think all Americans who travel know that there are pockets of Europeans who do not like us but they take our money and welcome our tourism. That's OK because I take back with me the memories of great museums and parks. All in all I wish we would be a little more isolated and keep some of the money we spread around to others to ourselves- maybe my taxes would go down and maybe then other countries would appreciate our generosity.
Terrell
KY   USA   08/05/02

I've worked and travelled extensively in Europe, and have many friends there. From talking to them and reading the newspapers there, I can't avoid concluding that people disagree with the US, and generally would be happier if the US would just go away. Whether they are right to feel that way I'll leave to others to discuss, as they already have. All I want to point out is that the sentiment exists, and hopefully by accepting that fact and understanding the reasoning behind it, some US citizens may be led to a more enlightened perspective.
Jean-Philippe
Ottawa, ON   Canada   08/05/02

I would like to respond to USA. To quote someones ideas as "silly" shows just how ignorant you can be. What makes your ideas not "silly"? On one hand you talk about the "sensible" European, which I take means they have the same ideas as you, and then on the other hand you talk about "left wing nonsense that dominates public discussion in Europe." If it dominates public discussion, don't you think that many people may agree with it. I assume you are one of those people who still believes that George Bush won the popular vote, for your information he didn't -- he won the electoral vote. That is our system and that is fine with me, however I think when you say "majority" you might keep that in mind.
KR
  USA   08/04/02

I beg to differ with KR. Tha intense criticism of Rick that has appeared here is not based on the belief that he should not express himself (though using his travel website for the purpose has been questioned). Rather, it is that his ideas are silly and many of his "facts" are simply wrong. And, to suggest that these ideas are what one learns from experience in Europe is wrong, and, in fact, something of a slander of the majority of Europeans who are sensible -as are the majority of Americans. Rick is voicing simply the left-wing nonsense which dominates public discussion in Europe, which as someone noted, tends to be rather elitist and anti-American. If anything, ascribing these views to "Europeans" suggests a lack of aquaintance with Europeans!

  USA   08/04/02

I find it funny how the conservatives who responded to this website, think Rick should keep his views to himself while they are free to expound on their own. Is the US always right -- no. Are Europeans always right -- no. Do other countries have ways of doing things that might benefit us here -- yes. If one doesn't want to explore ideas and culture and maybe question their own, then why travel in the first place. Just look at a picture, that way you won't be challenged.
KR
seattle, wa   USA   08/04/02

It seems pretty clear to me why Rick would hold some of his opinions, political and otherwise. They are informed by over 25 years of travel in Europe. His whole philosophy of travel is to live like the people you are visiting--"when in Rome..."

I think Rick's understanding of Europe and Europeans is a result of his willingness to look at the world through their eyes, a mindset that many Americans seem constitutionally incapable of assuming. We imagine that those who don't do things like Americans, see things as Americans do, are simply goofy or misguided or ignorant. Pity. I love my country, but I don't think we have a corner on the truth. Of course, I'm one of those oft-berated liberals, so those of a different bent can feel free to reflexively ignore what I've said. Can't consider alternate perspectives now, can we?
M. Tabacchi
Indianapolis, IN   USA   08/03/02

I like Rick's products but do not like his politics. Am I going to boycott his products-no . Am I going to ignore his views of politics-yes. I realized he had no loyalty to America after the 9/11 attack when his sole interest was in making sure that America kept bolstering Europes economy through travel instead of using his name and influence to help his fellow Americans. Will I give to his charities-no. Will I give to public broadcasting in his name-no. Will I cut off my nose to spite my face and not buy his books-no- unless something else comes along.

We all care about foreign policy to a certain extent but we cannot let Europe's needs dictate our agenda to keep us safe and economically sound. I love learning about history from my travels through Europe but does not that history tell us the ones who forge forward survive? I think from my summer trip to Europe I have found alot more things that we have in common with them then Rick lets on- foremost he fact that all countries are now making immigration their top priority and agenda. I think Rick is way off base on his opinion but that is his his right to give his opinion. I just think this web site to offer it is inappropriate.
Louis
Portland, OR   USA   08/03/02

Antoine, I agree with your last statement. We all should be proud of what we have to be proud of. The problem is, too many Americans (Americans are citizens of the USA; North America is the continent which includes the countries of Mexico, USA and Canada), either don't know what to be proud of (ignorance) or choose only to highlight the negatives in the past (why?). Your political points regarding the Kyoto treaty...C'mon...when is the last time an international treaty was the solution...Oslo accords, Treaty of Versaille,...The USA will choose another path to achieve the result desired.

As for McDonalds, et al...they sell a product to people who want to buy it so they can make a profit. I personally don't eat their products, but damn if they don't keep building them anyway. I guess I just don't weild the economic power to shut them down...much like the European countries. In Paris there are Mikky D's and Burger King too...not very many though...so how does their very presence translate into some movement to "invade" Europe?

What is wrong with Frenchmen thinking their country is the best...the supreme...better than my country (they do you know...just ask them)? Nothing. That's fine. Just don't deny me the same attitude towards mine. Look, we are all humans...we are on the same planet, we basically want the same things...different political forms are structured to achieve them...you like yours...I like mine. I also like some things about yours...hopefully you will find something to like about mine. If not, shall we go to war?
Angus Black
Columbus, OH   USA   08/02/02

what an interesting suject! This opinions comes from french canadian, so it migth be biased, but i will give it anyway. Sorry about spelling, english is my second language. I see and read a lot of passion in what i read. Ricks Steve's, in his opening statement doesnt seem to talk about his opinion, but what he think europeans think about the states. Secondly, i read in quite a few comment about the Americanisation of europe (and the rest of the world). American seem to think that they only offer a product, and people have the choice to take it or not. But most of the time, this is not the case: one good exemple is cinema. Take Montréal, a predominantly french city in Canada, The movie distribution business is mostly American. The have the money to buy the screens to show american! In fact, they own the screens, . Canada in considered as a home market, so we get to see all the latest blockbuster and not so blockbuster, were as the canadian industrie have to fight to show it's own movies. I do enjoy my will smith movie once in a wile, but sombody in New-york or L.A. shouldn't dictate the choices i make when i go to the movies! The same can be said about McDonald's, Starbuck, etc. These companies have the means of almost imposing their products on the masses, again, nobody forces anyone from goin to the Champs Elissés McDonald, but it is there, it is cheap and taste somewhat good! The americanisation is not necessarily that McD is everywhere, but that this way of eating is getting more popular and the way of producing this type of food is not as good for the environement.

True, the racism is rampant in Europe, but those who oppose it are virulant. Americans can feel righteous about racism, but not even 40 years ago, African Americans could not take the same buses as Europeen Americans, or go to the same stores, and that was permitted by the States governement. So neither Europeens or American should feel superior about the way they handle racism. American are very proud of ther country, and they should be. But to always scream at the worl face taht they are the best, numero uno, the greatest, they should be leaders, and your governement should lead the way and set an exemple to the world when it comes to polution ( kyoto anyone?) arms, economics (freetrade with canada, have heard about the wood controversy ). Americans, as people, what ever their political leaning, should be more open to critism from people from other contry and try to see if the critics are valid. Whatever american may think, there is a reason why the rest of the world is uneasy with the United States (and there are real reason to feel uneasy about alot of other country). So we should all love our countrys, be patriotic, learn from one onother, even about our own country, even if it hurts, even if we dont want to believe it!
Antoine Gelinas
Montreal, qc   canada   08/02/02

Just thought I'd check back in to follow the discussion...I scrolled down and read Mike Kruger's response to Rick Steves' original post. Mike's post is the kind of insightful analysis I would expect from Rick Steves! A man who has bridged these two "worlds" for as many years as he has, certainly should be cognizant of the underlying causes for the inherent differences. Surely, he must be. Whether his neglect to address these issues in his post is due to advancing a personal political agenda or merely to stimulate a response is open to question. However, issuing voting directives to his clientele seem to indicate the former. I find his tour information excellent. I thank him for his ETBD books and the associated philosophy. I was disappointed that he chose this venue to disclose a personal political viewpoint.
Angus Black
Columbus, OH   USA   08/02/02

The comment by "Steve" below that "Rick will continue to advise us about...," is rather depressing. Who would rely on the other Steve(s)? Most of his political and historical facts are wrong and his opinions informed by serious prejudices. And, especially, he doesn't know -or let on that he knows- what Europeans really think. The ideas he attributes to Europeans in general actually are held only to a certain (anti-American) elite. Remember that public discourse in Europe is quite undemocratic, whether it is called right- of left-wing.

  USA   08/01/02

The USA is not Europe; BY DESIGN. Our governmental and economic system is totally different. We can visit France, Italy, wherever...enjoy it, etc. We do NOT need to learn how to change our way of life to be more like them. Why would we? We are covering ground that they can't even imagine. Why should this American experiment "be more like" them. What would be the point of going backwards in time? Excuse this if it is "rant-like", but I'm tired of apologies for the great things we have done and for the great people we are, and will become even better. Thank you.
Angus Black
Columbus, OH   USA   08/01/02

Steve why in heavens would you be ashamed of people voicing their thoughts and opinions? Just because the majority of readers do not agree with you and Rick does not mean that you are wrong, it merely means people are exercising their right to free speech. This appears to be a site read by highly educated high achievers who have done research that is in confict to your opinion and Ricks and are not afraid to speak out when something offends them. I for one enjoy reading the posts because political correctness is thrown out the window and people are saying what they feel. I am proud that we have a system that allows us to vote for whom we want and has checks and balances to determine if things go awry (your anti Bush and Anti Supreme Court reference)and proud we do not take steps to assassinate party members as they did in the Netherlands when it appeared a right wing contender may take the forefront of a political race. every country has its way of dealing with political issues differently. I think Rick's memo was very "in your face" and may have been written like that to stir up the controversy that it has. Whether he expected it to be so heavily weighted against him I do not know nor do I think he expected outcries of not doing business any longer with him becuase to some people his views seemed unAmerican. Calm down it's good to hear all sides - there is in fact no thing really as "the truth " but rather facts being interpreted by people as they see it. Everyone sees a different truth.
tammi
New York, NY   USA   08/01/02

I recently returned to the graffiti wall after having made one of the early posts commenting positively on Rick's advice to be prepared to talk politics when in Europe. I am surprised and ashamed that so many travelers have responded in negative terms to Rick's advice. I know that my German cousins and my French friends are overwhelmingly interested in American politics. They were awestruck that a presidential candidate who won the popular vote was not now president. They are amazed at the intervention in a state election by our Supreme Court to award the presidency on a partisan basis, a move disparaged by most law school professors in this country. Now Europeans will suffer from the nonparticipation of the US in many treaties that worked to build world security and environmental safety.

As Rick first pointed out, education is the key to an informed response to questions from foreigners about our policy actions. Our Constitution guaranties us the right to speak out. I applaud Rick for his outspoken stand to educate ourselves about what our government is doing in our name that affects our foreign friends. Not knowing what our government is doing in our name and then criticizing someone for simply advising us to investigate is a serious lapse in our responsibility as a US citizen. I know Rick will continue to advise us of the changing intellectual environment in other countries despite the negative postings from those who have have not learned anything from their travels in Europe.
Steve Laux
Cary, NC   USA   08/01/02

I would like to make one more quick point on something that divides Americans and Europeans (and something Rick made a slight reference to). It's the issue of Israel. For those that have been living in Siberia for the last 50 years, Americans are much more likely to support Israel, while Europeans are much more likely to support the Palestinians. This is something I can almost guarantee will come up while you travel over there.

Now, Europeans often claim that our support for Israel is based on economic reasons (military sales, etc) or some kind of Jewish lobby power (borders anti-Semitic claims of Jewish conspiracy theories to me). Although there are more Jews in America then in Europe, most Americans support Israel because they feel that after the Holocaust, Jews deserved a homeland to call their own. People realize they need a place where they could receive sanctuary from the many people of the world who, frankly, hate them. If we supported Israel for merely economic reasons, we would be much smarter to instead throw our complete support behind the Arabs. We could sell a lot more planes, tanks and guns to the many Arab countries in the Middle East, not to mention the benefit of oil.

And this leads to another point, much of the reason Europeans side with the Palestinians and are much more likely to take the Arab perspective in this conflict is because of their economic interests. They are highly intertwined with Middle Eastern Arab countries for trade and business dealings. They are also extremely dependent on the Middle East for their domestic supply of oil. We get most of our oil from Western Hemispheric sources. So, don't let Europeans give you this aloof, high moral nonsense on how "simple" we are on our position in the Middle East. Their policy is just as money and oil driven as they claim ours to be.
Josh
Arlignton, VA   USA   07/31/02

Just a thought regarding the "New Enlightenment" addendum in the back of most, Europe 101 books, by Rick Steves and Gene Openshaw. This seems to be the only place on the website to enter a comment such as this, so forgive me if it is a bit "off topic".

My point is concerning the third to the last paragraph in which Rick "marvels at how politically active American Christians can believe that we're all children of God-while fighting aid for the hungry and homeless."

I nearly fell off my chair when I read this! Think of all the privately funded relief operations in which Americans RISK THEIR LIVES daily to feed, clothe, medically care for and educate multitudes. Think of the tens of thousands of hospitals built and hunger relief efforts developed to help "the least of these". How many of those hospitals were built in the name of atheism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Allah or socialism? The record shows that the majority of these efforts were and are painstakingly envisioned and brought to fruition, I'm sorry to say, Rick, by Christian organizations, be they Methodist, Baptist, Presb. Catholic, Lutheran. If you disagree with that then you are simply mis- or un-informed.

I certainly don't wish to exhalt American Christians above any other nationality's people of faith, and I am thankful for ANY medical and hunger relief done in the name of Mickey Mouse or Scooby Doo, IF IT WORKS, but it tires me to hear that particular liberal diatribe that says that "You Christians should stay out of politics!!!" Then, when a Christian seems misinformed about a topic, we are awarded the label of "bumpkin" and "why don't you get informed on the politics of the day???!!" Just had to make my point.
Rick
SC   USA   07/31/02

My wife and I have been Rick Steves' fans for several years, watching his shows and purchasing his travel materials. Recently, however, it appears that Mr. Steves has decided since he is an expert on European travel, that his expertise extends to other areas, in this case international politics, economics, and sociology.

Mr. Steves should stick to travel, a topic he knows quite well, and avoid politics, a topic that, with his extreme left-wing views, can only be devisive. He is clearly of the "blame America first" persuasion. It is too bad that he feels the need to bite the hand that has fed him so well. It is terribly ironic that he is so critical of capitalism, a system that has made him a multi-millionaire. He has spent too much time listening to Europeans that are prohibited from getting ahead by hidden regulations and onerous tax rates.

While I realize that this forum is his to do with as he pleases, he should at least restrict it to travel, there are thousands of other sites for his political views.
Tom King
Boise, ID   USA   07/30/02

What an interesting and exciting wall on which to scribble -- Good idea, Rick! Susan is absolutely right about the average American being far less informed about world news. Just read your local newspaper or watch/listen to the radio or TV. Little is said about events in other countries. On the rare occasions that something is mentioned it is only half-hearted and simplistic reporting.

Josh, too, is right about some of this being due to the sheer size of this country. After all, you can drive for days and never leave the US, sometimes, never leave your state. Europeans can never understand that about us. And they probably never will unless they come here and see it for themselves.

And Peter from Belgium struck things on the head by noticing that in the US, we tend to see things as either black or white,liberal or conservative, with-us or against-us (especially in the post 9/11 mood). I am postulating that this lack of "nuance" might be due to our so very short history, relative to the Europeans.

We get all breathless and excited over a 200 year old house still standing -- they walk past Greek, Roman, Etruscan ruins on a daily basis. No wonder Europeans see the world in different terms, in long terms. They know anything worth having will still be there next year, next decade, next century. Anything not worth having will be built over, recycled, or forgotten. We have to go out and get things (whether good, bad, ephemeral) right now while we still can.

The adage from a recent movie, "instant gratification isn't fast enough" fits most of us in the US. We seem to act as if there is no tomorrow (witness our waste of natural resouces, especially oil), Europeans are only too sure there will be plenty of tomorrows in which we need to survive. Sometimes it completely boggles my mind to see these differences.

The wonder is, not that a lot of people don't like the US, but that any of them can stand us, little up-starts that we are. Rick has been doing a wonderful job of getting Americans to understand that "different" is not "bad," and "disagreement" is not "hate." And that we all should consider ourselves ambasadors of the US whenever we travel. Be polite, be kind, be interested, and enjoy your surroundings and the people for what they can teach you and how that enriches you.

So, has anyone out there read CIAO AMERICA? It sounds very entertaining.
Martha
Sutton, WV   USA   07/28/02

I must correct the comment I just made. Steves does not use the words "noble, failed" explicitly to describe communism. It is, however, his position as evidenced by the very charitable, apologetic comments he makes about communism. He aparently regards communism and American democracy as fundamentally equal in their treatment of their citizens.
Mea culpa
  USA   07/27/02

My advice to those who are reading this topic is to check out the reviews of Steves' "Europe 101" at Amazon.com. Amongst many other absurd, false and asinine things Steves' has said is to call communism a "noble, failed" experiment. The founders of Communism -Lenin, Mao and so forth were murders! "Noble experiment!!" -how can anyone be so stupid?
A man with a lot of knowledge of Europe and the US
  USA   07/26/02

One thing that this discussion has highlighted is the fact that the political scene in the U.S. is much less diverse than in Europe. Either you're a conservative, or a liberal. Either you love America, or you hate it. Etc. In Europe, by contrast, every country has multiple political parties that represent all parts of the political spectrum. Which partly explains why Europeans in general possess a more "nuanced" (as they like to say) view about politics, society, and culture. As wrong as it is for some Europeans to stigmatize all Americans as clueless cowboys, it's equally wrong (if not more so) for us to view all Europeans as socialist America-haters.
Peter
Brussels,    Belgium   07/26/02

I think of myself as lucky that I have been able to travel over to Europe as much as I have and that I have made many great friends there that I continue to keep in touch with and visit. I would agree with Susan that many Americans are insular and oblivious to the outside world unless that world directly threatens or challenges them. I see this as mainly a consequence of the size and vastness of our great country.

Europe is a small place geographically and countries there have traditionally had to rely on the outside world for natural resources and other goods. They also have a colonial past that America never quite experienced on the same scale. This adds to their international worldview.

Now, I may be heartless as the saying goes (I'm a 26 year old and fairly conservative), but my experience with my friends in Europe has shown me that many of their views are not that different then ours. Many of their complaints (our cars, our taxes, our house sizes, our flamboyant lifestyle) are based in envy. My friends are the first to admit it! Steve Zavocki has it right on this one.

The main reason Europeans drive small cars and don't have AC in their house, is because they are forced to through economic policies of their governments. Most don't see it being a moral argument (although some do). Most see it as just part of life. My friends complain about it all the time!

And this leads to another point, Europeans have more of a live-and-let live attitude toward their government. I think this is why there are so few public complaints against some issues like taxation, environmental and national sovereignty issues. The change over to the Euro is a perfect example. Almost every country that has the Euro now had no direct say what-so-ever in that choice. In fact, their attitude seems almost blasé when asked about it. I mean, can you imagine the outrage that would occur here in the US if the government just stated we were going to start using the North American Peso in five years?

Anyway, I guess I'm trying to say that America has her faults, but in many respects they are due to human nature and part and partial to living in a country where in most respects, the government pretty much lets people live their life the way they choose. And on a side note, my friends are all on waiting lists to get green cards to come over here. We can't be all that bad!
Josh
Arlington, VA   USA   07/24/02

Susan is right, we should learn not to be so fragile of debates that don't necessarily end on a happy patriotic note. Rick has always been political or realistic. All through every book of Rick's, he's very honest and gives opinionated details that sometimes sound political. But that's why RS is so popular. (You should see the ladies swoon for him at the packing light sessions.) Thanks for 'keeping it real' Rick.
JoeInDt
Denver, co   USA   07/24/02

Susan - you're my hero!
ME
CA   USA   07/24/02

After just completing my 10th trip to Europe, I think Rick is right on target with his comments. (A word of caution, I'm a 53 year old liberal, not young like Rick, so maybe I have no brain!) I generally find Europeans to be much better informed than Americans...maybe because they read more and aren't afraid to engage in political debate. Americans are so concerned that they'll offend someone that politics are an "off-limits" topic. How weird is that? Politics control our lives, so we'd better engage.

As to the "smart" car comments...Maybe those long commutes would quickly end (with better community planning and mass transit) if people were forced to sit in tiny energy efficient vehicles to get to and from their jobs so far from home.

Rick, keep saying the things you want to say. People don't have to read them if they don't want. If they can't separate your travel guidance from your politics, then perhaps they aren't ready to venture out into this big beautiful world we live in.
Susan Smith
Odessa, FL   USA   07/23/02

I believe Rick's statements about the state of America is a very watered down, politically correct version of what he really wants to say. Naturally, this is a business, can't offend everyone. I base this on the fact that anyone who travels very much begins to see the US as it really is, good and bad.

Detroit can make jokes about the 'smart' car, but the reality is if gas prices suddenly become unstable most of us won't be laughing. Suburban living could end as we know it. No more Mall of Americas, Walmarts, and 60 mile commutes all in the name of cheap fuel and cheap homes.

And why isn't there a separate section for Ireland now? :-)
JoeInDt
Denver, co   USA   07/23/02

I am a long-time Rick Steves/ETBD fan and an experienced traveler. I have met Rick and he is young, intelligent, good-hearted and concerned. It should be no surprise then that he is very liberal. That doesn't bother me any more than the knowledge that the New York Times is liberal and the Wall Street Journal is conservative. When I daily read them I know there leanings and take them into account. You should approach Rick the same way.

That said, I think it is a mistake for Rick to use his prominence as a travel guru to promote his political views. I read him for his knowledge of travel, not for his knowledge of politics. His piece at the start of this new topic is simplistic and un-informed. I do not support all my governments' approaches to world problems and I try to always examine our motives for their intellectual honesty and ethical value as well as their practicality. I apply the same standards to Europe's approach to the problems and often find similar questionable motives. Some of the examples Rick alludes to are simply not true and others are stretched beyond recognition.

For example, though I fault Detroit and Americas love of the car for contributing to our energy and environmental problems, the mini-car he mentions would never work in American where the average commute, as I read today, is 38 minutes compared to 9 minutes in Europe (I don't confirm these figures, I only quote them from today's paper) The distances to commute are correspondingly disparate.

Elsewhere Rick has encouraged his followers to get our government to forgive the Third World debt. A noble desire but not wise. Much of this debt was caused not by the poverty and backwardness of the nations but by the corruption of the leaders of those countries. If you forgive the debt these leaders will simply steal more and their people will be no better off and have no reason to overthrow their corrupt leaders.

As a young man I was told to keep my politics and religion out of business. I think Rick should do the same. I know Rick means well and I applaud his concern but he does not know enough about social dynamics, politics and economics to put himself forward as an expert on anything except travel.

One final thought. Rick has changed a lot over the years (I have read all his books since 1990 and I could cite specific examples) and he doubtlessly will change more. Most of us will if we are smart. Someone once said that if you are not a liberal when you are young you have no heart and if you are not a conservative when you are old you have no brain. Rick has a very good brain and a kind heart. He will learn the same way we did.
Charles M. Luther
Katy, TX   USA   07/22/02

On our recent RS trip to Turkey, I was pleasantly surprised to see how much the Turkish folks were happy to see Americans (or at least American dollars?) It was disappointing that the guide presented a very Political Turkish propaganda version of Turkish history and the so called I quote, "Exchange" between Turkey and Greece. When challenged on some of his political views, the guide was defensive and insulted to think that we Americans didn't buy his story as being the whole story. I guess they just aren't ready to openly talk about what really happened with the Armenians and Greeks. None-the-less, I was touched by the actions of a small boy in a rual country store who proceeded to count to ten in English, and teach me how to count to ten in Turkish. I gave him a small American flag (the kind on a toothpick) which he promptly held next to his Trukish Flag and kissed both. There is hope in the hearts of the children
Ginny
Cincinnati, OH   USA   07/20/02

I'm probably a tad right-of-center myself, but I must say, all you conservatives who are villifying Rick here have seriously misread Rick's piece. It was not intended as an expose of his own political thought, but to enlighten you on the present mindset of Europeans - to tell you what you might expect should you become involved in a real conversation with a real European sometime, and in this regard, I think he has very accurately spelled out the kinds of concerns that Europeans have. It's true that Rick's political opinions do seep into his material at times, but so what? You won't recommend his products anymore now that you understand him better? You only want to do business with people who are such panty-waists that they always hide their true feelings? In the old days, when you walked down to the hardware store for some nails and a chat, you got an ear full of politics too, but you still did business there. We all do business every day with people whose political ideas don't match ours - it's just that these people don't have the cajones to tell you what their opinions are, so you have no idea you're patronizing a Nazi or a communist. Kudos to Rick for being man enough to be open with his clientele.
Russ
Galt, CA   USA   07/19/02

It's unfortunate that most of the world doesn't like us. But, I do not know how any American can be under the opinion that we are universally loved. Some might say we should reflect on events like 9/11 to change our whole way of thinking. I think the events of 9/11 validated what is good and right about America....

I have never understood this "Americanization" arguement...The undeniable symbol of this is MCds. If people want inexpensive, tasty, (apparently over 4 billion think so) food served quickly, a McDonalds will pop up. It is neither the fault of America or Americans. I can assure you that McDonalds Europe is not propped up by gluttonous, loud Americans "looking for some real food" when traveling. Can it take away some of the European charm? Sure... I think it is silly to think that American is forcing anything down anyone's throat (both figuratively and literally).

I am awaiting the stories out of Vienna about Starbucks...Largely publicized small protests followed by lines out the door of Viennese folks clamoring for a triple Venti..stay tuned....

I just think much of the European crticism such as that is trivial and inconsequential...Euros need to lighten up on the US..we really don't effect their lives that directly...at least not until the collapse of communism..thank you Ronald Reagan....

  USA   07/18/02

Wow, I'm amazed at all the conservative vitriol Rick is taking here. First off, it's always been pretty clear that Rick has a liberal & open-minded bent, in both his TV shows & books. He doesn't hide it, & I always welcome it.

Travel is about broadening your horizons in every way, not just taking pictures & relaxing. Travel exposes you different viewpoints so you can learn about the world outside your own home. Americans, IMO, need this more than anyone.

We Americans are pretty clueless about how the world perceives us. You'd think 9/11 would have woken us up about that, but clearly, not everyone understands that the world doesn't universally think we're so wonderful. It's not just the Middle East -- Europeans have diverse views on the US, & they're not all pretty. Just like Rick says, we're the global 400lb. gorilla, & other countries resent that. America could do with a little humility, & Americans abroad might think twice before trying to impose their views on others.

In our last trip to Europe, my husband & I had a wonderful, enlightening experience. In Paris we stumbled upon a large political demonstration. Several Frenchmen tried to explain it to us. While the language barrier prevented us from understanding the fine points, the general idea was that this group wanted more socialist governments in Europe that would take better care of the poor & working classes -- they thought that Europe was getting too Americanized! It wasn't until we explained we don't agree with Bush & are liberals ourselves that these men smiled & laughed with us, instead of criticizing our country's actions.

The person who thinks travel is not a political event is wrong. Politics are everywhere. The very fact that we have enough money to travel to another country means we're privileged, elite, & this has political repercussions. This is even more true when visiting Asia than Europe, but it still applies. We take our social & political positions with us where ever we go, & these will butt up against the positions of others.

Unless you travel on a sheltered tour bus with no local contact (which is NOT Rick Steves travel!), you will encounter politics. Accept it, be prepared for it. And please don't go making Americans look even worse than much of the world already thinks we are.
Tryst
Silicon Valley, CA   USA   07/18/02

Rick, we are big Rick Steves travel fans in Atlanta...we are not big Rick Steves political fans. You might be aware that while the Seattle enclave in which you live (along with some other large metro areas-San Fran, NYC,etc.,) is strongly left wing, it is a probability that the majority of your customers throughout "fly over" country is conservative. Suggest you might wish to factor that into your thinking as your seek to market your products (travel products). We have worked to promote your products because we enjoy them and most of our affluent friends trust our travel recommendations (I own a management consulting firm). We are less likely to recommend them now as prior to the comments in the June newsletter. Attached is a European Union article I suggest you read. If you are as open minded as I think you would claim, you will read it in full. I've read articles from The Nation and find it to be unmitigated nonsense....but, only after serious consideration. We want to continue to support your products but only on the basis of political neutrality. If not, we have to make decisions based on your political left leanings. I hope you understand. Regards,
Jim Davis
Peachtree City, GA   USA   07/18/02

In reality I don't think that there is any "perfect" place on this planet. Therefore, perhaps, we should not use travel as a way to count up all of the bad and terrible policies other countries have, but rather focus on what is good and can be applied in the US. Perhaps looking at the way other countries handle their problems or their approach and way of thinking about an issue can aid in resolving issues in the US.

I think if there were a country where we could all live in a 3,000 sq foot house, use all the electricity we want and get free medical care with 6 weeks paid vacation and no taxes, while burning no fossil fuels - we would all live there.

I find it sad that people still can't listen to each other's view points without getting upset. Is Europe biased towards foreigners from poor countries? Certainly. Do European countries continually cram the idea of "all MEN are created equally" down your throat? No. Is there racism in the US? Heck yeah!

The issues with the Turkish guestworkers have been around for as long as there have been guestworkers. The "problem" is purely cultural. Many are only in countries, such as Germany, to make some money...and eventually many move back home. Therefore, for most there is no need to assimilate into the mainstream. In fact, when I went to school there, they even had their own all-Turkish classes.

Now my cousin (a female) is a teacher in Germany and had in her class several Turkish teenagers. She found it nearly impossible to handle her class because they did not respect her. Again, probably a cultural issue.

However, my neighbors were Turkish and my family developed a great friendship with them. So, as with anything else, the problems are generally with individuals.

On a greater scope, however, guestworkers are seen as abusing the "system". My grandparents, now in their 70's, for example, who feel they have worked very hard for what they have all their lives, see foreigners who actually immigrate to Germany and receive exhorbitant amounts of money to get started in the West. In the 70-80's quite a few of my ethnic-German friends from Romania ended up buying property and building houses with the money they received - while my family lived in in a 2-bedroom state assisted apartment. I would assume that this kind of thing would cause people to be just a tad resentful.

Naturally, discrimination is wrong any time, any place and should never be tolerated. However, you can only fight a problem if you understand the root cause - and without truly listening to each other, how can we understand?
mew
  USA   07/17/02

I guess some of the people who responded to this board failed to read the topic. The question was political interaction with Europeans not Rick's views. Get a clue people read the topic before you rant on someone else's views. Think!!
KR
Seattle, WA   USA   07/15/02

If you haven't been able to glean Rick as left leaning you're simply not a Rick Steves fan....The example that comes to mind is Dutch drug policy....although decriminalization and legalization does have some merits, it is no coincidence that Holland is the hub of hard and elicit drugs for Europe. It's also a center for child pornography, not to mention the exploitation of third world women on the streets for similar "enlightened" attitudes towards sex ....If you just want to smoke legal dope is somnething that I can understand... it's the self righteous proclamation of their perfect, enlightened, crime free system that is laughable....
joe
seattlre,    USA   07/14/02

Bad move Rick. You should keep your politics to yourself and just stick to travel. Maybe it's about time the rest of the world started to police itself. We have our own problems here and I don't mean the spotted owl and Monica L. Jobs for one thing so Americans can earn money to travel and buy your books and tapes.
Bill
Mt Holly, NJ   USA   07/14/02

Rick, Why are you letting your far left liberal views muck up my otherwise very favourable views of your great travel site/books. I highly value your advice on travel but am disinclined to purchase any more of your books since you have absolutely no respect for my kind -Republicans! I will miss your books,but I can't give my business to somebody who thinks I am a fool!
Harjot
West Hartford, CT   USA   07/14/02

After just returning from a trip to Holland, Belgium, France and England I found for the first time in my travels that I had to defend my country and my views. As a Republican I even found my views more challanged.

My Trafalgar Tour guide a wonderful dutch man constantly engaged and challenged me on topics of politics in american and his sentiment was definitely anti Bush, calling him chicken for not bombing afghanistan sooner than we did, although I tried to explain why we needed a coalition first due to our Saudi and Jordan connections. My tour companions from Canada were hostile to the way Bush engaged Blair but did not get down and kiss their feet when they joined the coalition, and my British companions voiced deep concern over the fact that we should be supporting a Palistine state . I felt very very uncomfortable for the first time in my life traveling in Europe, not from a safety view point but from having to argue about politics while I was on vacation. I was ready for global warming to come up but that never hit the deck, however our dutch tour guide kept making reference that everyone in America rides in big Cadillacs and uses too much energy.

The European people I encountered were sympathetic to our 9/11 plight but did not understand why we did what we did or do what we do because their press is presenting slanted views to them. Watching CNN europe and BBC europe gave me a knot in my stomach and every day seemed to a new challenge.

While we were in london and across the street from the Parliment there was a large sign of George Bush on a wanted poster for crimes against humanity being touted by some group. Other people verbalized outrage that we were not ratifying the International Court treaty and exempting out our peacekeepers. My son who is in the Jr Air Force ROTC was ready to engage in a verbal altercation with these people and I had to drag him away before he let loose. There was lots of anti US sentiment abroad and this in addition to the Euro making it expensive to travel stressed us out on what was supposed to be a light hearted vacation. I was looking to get away from argumentative behavior by going away on vacation and was put from the frying pan into the fire. I hope when we go back next year things will have settled down.
kathleen mcgillick
Atlanta, Ga   USA   07/14/02

Sorry Rick, I enjoy your show, but your anti-Republican views have no place on the show. I am an 18 year Army vetern and a Republican. The Clinton years were tough; and the Gore years probably would have been worse for us. I would keep your political views and thoughts to yourself and focus on the task at hand which is Travels in Europe.
Bruce
Olympia, WA   USA   07/11/02

I think this is a great topic, because politics is a subject that will come up while traveling in Europe. Especially, if you are a person who makes an effort to talk to your hosts, and other people you meet on the street. These are my observations, the Europeans are not against us, the press certainly is, but not the average person. I had people come out of blue to tell me what a great president we had, I told them that I agree too. I think that Joe from Seattle is right on in that there is some envy out there. But I heard just as much envy from other countries to Germany.

I also think that nearly every European would own a 3000 sqft home and an SUV if they could afford it (ie not overtaxed). I saw many more SUV's this past trip than ever. Loads and loads of Jeep Grand Cherokees, and even some Trailblazers, and 4-Runners. As was said, I don't believe it is a moral issue for them.

On a different topic, I think the next hot bottom topic in Europe is immigration. Over an over especially in Germany, Austria and Switzerland I heard talk to anti-immigrant meetings. I am all for people immigrating legally in search of a better life, but in someways I understand their gripes because the immigrants don't seem to make an effort to fit in, like learning he language, etc. This is not my observation but of some of the people we talked to.

We did had a negative experience with the Muslum Turks we saw in Austria at a playground. They let their young boys run wild throwing rocks at each other while the robed mothers sit on the bench nearby and do nothing. Eventually, my wife had to yell at them to get them to stop.

After that experience I can see how easy it would be for a politician to stir up anti-immigrant sentiment. I should also add that the gripe is not based solely on race. There seems to be a real bias against people from the former Yugoslavia (who are white) in the German speaking countries as well. I would also like to add that I also believe, like it or not liberals, that America is in a position to call the shots in the world. We should not have to submit to treaties or courts created by people who would like to bring America down. I don't blame some Europeans for not liking it, but they would do the same thing, if and maybe when, they are in the same position.

I guess my bottom line is not to think that Europe has it all together. I also want to say that I don't have a problem with Rick expressing his political views on this site or in his books. No, I don't agree with most of them, but he has earned the platform in which to share them. His biased opinion is what we liked about him in the first place.
Steve Zavocki
Lewisville, TX   USA   07/10/02

Sorry, Rick, but I think you are on the wrong track here. I do not share your political views and, personally, don't care what they are. I travel so I can form my own opinions. I don't believe anything concerning politics is as black or white as you seem to think. Conservatives are not all gas-guzzling, air-polluting, children-starving monsters just as liberals are not all save-the-world do gooders! Keep your political views to yourself.
bettyk
Houston, Tx   USA   07/09/02

I thought this was very interesting topic to add because in all my trips to Europe I have always chatted politics with relatives, strangers, and fellow Americans.

What I always found remarkable was peoples reactions when I was unwilling to pile on America. This always led to differing, sometimes heated, opinions. But I always thought more understanding and clarifications of misconceptions resulted.

To be perfectly blunt, European resentment comes from a form of envy. I am not saying every European would jump a boat (although many still do) and immigrate. But the basis of disagreement is always what America has that the rest of the world (including Europe) does not. Now this is the type of viewpoint that gets me branded as another arrogant American. But it then followed by a litany of reasons why their culture, economic system, and country is better. I never doubt their conviction or belief but I don't brand them arrogant either. I think that the perception of arrogance comes from the supporting facts that America really ain't all that bad.

I believe America's status as numero uno (no one really disputes that) has resulted from hard work and economic freedoms. Although I could really get used to the idea of government imposed 6 weeks paid vacation, afternoon siestas, wine/beer at lunch, it's really not all that practical for me. It doesn't make me or any other American a bad or greedy person.

I think alot of criticism of America comes from ignorance. The seem to cling to things that are almost cliche (which is to say there is an element of truth.) A fine example of this is telling my German cousin that American does indeed have programs such as Welfare (income), housing subsidies (or even cost free housing), food stamps, medicaid. She is an educated person, but she was under the impression that no such system existed. I am sure she is not alone in her thinking.

Europe is a wonderful place with wonderful people. I found the recent antiamericanism in Europe a bit annoying but it would never stop me from visiting.

Note to Rick: Is it really the perception in Europe that the Cuban Exile community in Florida delivered the Presidency to Bush? At least have them stick to the American left version of having 5 judges being responsible (Who Filed the Suit?). That would would at least be partially true. Also, you'd be remiss to mention that the numerous recounts didn't exactly confirm a Gore Victory?
Joe
Seattle, wa   USA   07/09/02

Dear Rick, I am a huge fan of your guidebooks. I first started using your guidebook when I was planning my honeymoon for the summer of 2000. My wife and I have traveled extensively through France, Germany, Switzerland, London and Italy because of the great advice and travel skills we have learned from your books. This year, I have your entire 2002 library of guidebooks because my wife and I are living in Europe.

Part of the reason for the move was because of our experience traveling with your guidebooks and partially because I was fed up with America. I was tired of everything being trampled in the name of the Almighty Dollar. I was tired of being sold about by a politician who claimed to be liberal, but when took office immediately held the status quo. When I got my job teaching English here in the Veneto region of Italy last September, I left America unsure that I would ever return. I couldn't wait to be among the socialists of Europe that appreciated time off for vacation, a good wine, and caring for all people regardless of income level.

It would seem that I would be just the type of person that would be ecstatic about your latest monthly update on your website entitled "Traveling to Europe This Year? Get Ready to Talk Politics!" but I am rather displeased with it. Not only are the "facts" you stated untrue or misleading, but I don't believe you should use your position, following and expertise in one area to push a political agenda in another. I respect your opinion highly when it comes to traveling in Europe; I believe there is no one else who has as much experience as you do. However, that doesn't translate into the same respect for your political opinion, even though I agree with your liberal beliefs. Here is why. Travel is not by nature a political event. Communists through Fascists can travel and enjoy themselves, sometimes even in the same crowd. Politics is about creating a future and travel is about enjoying the now. Politicians are about wooing the crowd and travel is about being part of it. Travel and politics are not natural bedfellows. While you are certainly allowed to express your political opinions on your website, I wish you wouldn't. If you become the liberal who travels and not a traveler who is liberal, you risk alienating people.

My in-laws are a fine example of people you risk alienating. They are solid Republican voting, Limbaugh listening, Clinton-hating conservatives. They had no intention of traveling until their daughter, my wife, moved to Italy. When they decided to visit us, I directed them to your books and office in Edmonds. They read Europe Through the Back Door and attended a few weekend sessions. They were immediately hooked on your philosophy and decided that rather than tackle Italy cold turkey, they would book a Rick Steves' tour of Rome to warm up. They took that tour March 17-23. They had a fabulous time and, I believe, have recommended your tours to others. They traveled with us through parts of Italy and Germany and saw two societies where the haves and have-nots are closer, public transport works, and money is not always the prime consideration. They returned to Seattle thinking that a light rail commuter system from Tacoma to Everett wasn't such a bad idea (they were STAUNCHLY against it last Christmas) and that maybe slowing down their own life would lead to a higher quality of life.

This valuable experience, and change in thinking, was almost lost by a comment you made at one of the big weekend events in early March. At a general session, you made some comment about not voting Republican because they were against debt-relief aid to African countries. This angered them and had it not been so close to their tour date, I have no doubt they would have canceled. They were in Europe to see the sights, be taught about the history, and learn about some of the cultures that contributed to create America. They were not interested in going with an organization that would chastise them for their political beliefs. They definitely had reason to be upset about your comment anyway because the debt relief package that passed in 2000 had bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate.

That leads me to my second point. A majority of facts in your last e-mail were wrong or misleading. Europe is not a socialist paradise where everyone gets along and everyone works together to raise the standard of living. It has a variety of opinions and actions, some of which make every socialist smile, and some of which make the most ardent nationalist cheer. You stated that "for the average European, energy conservation is a responsible part of daily life.", but that doesn't truly convey the facts. Energy conservation is an economic requirement. Most countries have utilities that are monopolies; therefore utilities cost more so Europeans must conserve. High taxes throughout the continent leave people with less disposable income so they must buy smaller cars and more fuel/energy conscience devices.

Italians don't drive fuel-efficient cars because they are morally superior, but because they have less disposable income and the cars are more practical for their lives. Smart Cars and other smaller cars are in demand because they consume less gasoline, yes, but again you didn't mention that gasoline costs $4 a gallon and anyone who owned an SUV would need to be quite rich. Smart Cars also make sense because of the lack of parking in European cities. Because they were built prior to the car, the city centers don't have ample parking. America, building cities mostly after the automobile, has worked that machine into its urban planning.

History and population diffusion are very different between the two continents. In Europe, the distances between population centers are shorter and require less time in transit than America. From Seattle, the two closest major cities are Portland and Vancouver, Canada. Each is about 4 hours on the Interstate. However in Italy, 4 hours of driving is a lifetime. From Venice, I can reach Milan, Turin, Florence, Bologna, Parma and Rimini. If you have ever ridden in a Smart Car for a long period of time, it isn't comfortable. Smart Cars work fine for getting the groceries, but are uncomfortable and unsafe for long drives on the Autostrada. Even here in Europe (Italy and Germany mostly), the current trend is toward bigger, more "American" sized cars.

In Bassano Del Grappa, where I live, I see plenty of SUVs because it is a rich area. People are vain and everyone wants to show off their wealth, regardless of political leanings. SUVs are a sign of wealth and power, like a mansion on wheels. They are safer in accidents than a Fiat Punto, more comfortable and appeal to the consumer's vanity. In a continent with powerful Green parties, it' surprising how un-eco-friendly Europe can be. A recent study by the European Union has stated that fishing stocks in the Atlantic and Mediterranean are at dangerously low levels. It recommended quickly reducing the fleets in all countries, which would be the most logical and eco-friendly thing to do. Spain, Greece and several Scandinavian countries quickly balked at the idea and said they weren't going to reduce their fleets because they had reduced them in years past. While it is easy to ridicule America for not approving the Kyoto treaty (which we should responsibly do), European nations are dragging their feet on other ecological issues here on the continent.

As for the oil, money and control of politics, you again brush over the facts too quickly and don't give enough room to other ideas. For instance, America doesn't practice a formal cultural imperialism. We try to lead and offer others the chance to emulate. You can ask Britain and France how well it works to impose their culture and systems on people not ready for them. Or better yet, maybe you should ask the people of Algeria, Zimbabwe, or Kashmir how they feel. Bush wrongly said that he wasn't for nation building, but is doing just that in Afghanistan for the good of the Afghans and Americans. He isn't trying to get cheaper access to oil; to say otherwise would be to insinuate Bush had something to do with the September 11th attacks. As for an Afghanistan-Pakistan pipeline for oil from Central Asia, Time magazine ran an article about it 2 months ago and the consensus is that it isn't feasible based on the local people groups, the politics and mostly the geography. One person interviewed by Time said a pipeline across Afghanistan-Pakistan would make the Alaskan pipeline look like a small erector set.

One thing you didn't mention in glorifying Europe was the racism (blatant or hidden) that is much more of a problem here than in America. With the exception of maybe Britain, no country values multi-culturalism like the United States. The mentality here in Europe is always us-versus-them. Americans are acceptable because they are rich, white, Christian and will go home. However, for others escaping a bleak existence in Africa, Eastern Europe, or the Middle East, the reception is one of open hostility and discrimination. I'm sure you've seen the job opportunities for blacks in Italy. They can either sell counterfeit purses on white sheets to tourists or work in the kitchens of restaurants washing dishes. Europeans are so in favor of immigrants that all have strengthened anti-immigration laws. Italy, Netherlands, and Denmark have recently passed laws that make it almost impossible for an immigrant to enter the country legally. The Swiss have long been at the forefront of keeping out immigrants, which is why they are able to offer so many social services to their people because they aren't helping any new arrivals get established. Rather than seeing immigrants as able to add value to their communities, Europeans see immigrants as importers of all things evil, like drugs, prostitution and disease. America has shady and sometimes embarrassing policies, but I think we excel way above the Europeans in this area.

I know that this is long and Rick is probably in Europe now researching the 2003 guidebooks, but I would like for him to read this. Rick is extremely busy and I don't expect a response, but I hope this gives everyone at ETBD something to think about next time Europe seems like such a wonderful place to live.

Sincerely,

Mike Kruger
07/02/02

Having been to eight European countries for both busness and pleasure and working with many Europeans in the business world I must say that the root cause of European frustration seems to be that Europeans no longer call the shots internationaly. Just think back in time, only 100 years ago, this would have been unfathomable to a European. Their 20th century wars are responsible for their impotence and they don't like it. As students of history we must all think of which 21st century superpower would we want...The Nazis, the Communists, or the Americans. I am sure we on both sides of the Atlantic can agree on this one.
Charles Neeley
Houston, Tx   USA   06/30/02

What a wonderful surprise to read Rick's article "Get Ready to Talk Politics"! Though I read The Nation (and other "progressive" publications) I rarely hear any one else voice those "unpatriotic" opinions, and I fear he is correct about the American mainstream drifting to the right! Thanks, Rick, for taking a stand publicly, and for describing so eloquently the growing differences in(and the reasons for) the American and the European views on almost everything!
Suzanne Benning
Manhattan Beach, CA   USA   06/28/02

In Rick's section on "Talking Politics" with Europeans he recommends the weekly magazine The Nation. I heartily agree. You can find out much more than the US media will ever tell you by reading this magazine. In addition I recommend "World Orders Old and New" by Noam Chomsky, Professor of Language and Linguistics at MIT. What could be more important when traveling to Europe than language? This book gives a detailed history of the Palestinian situation which will help us understand "why they hate us". Other chapters of the book present our government's misuse of language in describing what they are doing on our behalf in the rest of the world. I hope this advice will help some of you traveling ambassadors out there.
Steve Laux
Cary, NC   USA   06/23/02