Travel as a Political Act

By: Rick Steves

Narrated by: Rick Steves

Change the world one trip at a time. In this illuminating collection of stories and lessons from the road, acclaimed travel writer Rick Steves shares a powerful message that resonates now more than ever.

With the world facing divisive events and movements like the rise of nationalism, Trump, Brexit, Erdogan, and more, there's never been a more important time to travel.

Rick believes the risks of travel are widely exaggerated, and that fear is for people who don't get out much. After years of living out of a suitcase, he still marvels at how different cultures may find different truths to be self-evident. By sharing his experiences from Europe, Central America, Asia, and the Middle East, Rick shows how we can learn more about own country by viewing it from afar.

With gripping stories from Rick's decades of exploration, this fully revised edition of Travel as a Political Act is an antidote to the current climate of xenophobia. When we travel thoughtfully, we bring back the most beautiful souvenir of all: a broader perspective on the world that we all call home.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2014 Rick Steves (P)2018 Hachette Audio

Critic reviews

"Steves's pleasant, down-to-earth delivery will be familiar to listeners who have watched his travel shows on PBS...the message remains valuable and timely in today's contentious political climate." (AudioFile)

Loved this book and the great stories shared in it

I first saw his fantastic talk with the same title and it lead me to the book which goes into greater detail and stories. Such interesting incorporation of history between the US and Europe and beautiful examples around how countries vary their policies and how travel helps one become acquainted with those differences.

Traveling is important

Rick Steves does an excellent and entertaining job of reminding us why travel is important; as a mean to connect with other people and appreciate what we have. Part travel book, part pep rally, I found this book very uplifting which is a rare find these days. I strongly recommend this book.

Feel like you travel the world ...in between your ears

Rick does a fantastic job making you feel you visit every country he talks about. He adds his political opinion but he is fair and balanced. What I enjoyed the most about it was how educational it was. I learned of countries and cultures in a way that I felt I met the people there. Through his unique rick Steves way of telling stories, you’ll learn so much about not only the countries Rick visits, but it’s history and it’s people. I am a master level audio book listener and this may have been my favorite book I have ever listened to. Bravo Rick.

Travel Transforms

Way back when, I worked for an educational tour company—sending groups of American students and teachers on European adventures with the goal of creating a "living" classroom. To keep us up-to-date, the documentary series, "Rick Steves' Europe," was required watching for staff (we had a library of VHS tapes to choose from). Many years later, Rick Steves is still making documentaries and writing books, but now there’s also a nifty audiobook app that allows me to listen to the 3rd edition (updated for 2018) of this industry classic in Rick's distinct voice. It’s a welcome reminder of how simply leaving the U. S. and experiencing the world beyond my bubble—meeting actual people, in real life—is a kind of political act. At the very least, it’s a great first step.

Powerful

Rick Steves at his best. But isn't he always? Spreading kindness where ever he goes, educating us on tolerance and cultural diversity. Never lecturing, just suggesting, in his non-judgmental way. I want to be just like him when I grow up.

Not your usual travel book

There's something about Rick Steves--he can appear to be the most traditional and middle class traveler imagineable--likable and utterly non-threatening--until you get to know him a little better. A completely enjoyable, fascinating read if you love cultures and social justice.

Thanks Rick

I have been fan of Rick Steve. His books accompanied me traveling many countries in Europe. This book gives me new vision while traveling. Good travelers shall be good citizens of world with love and compassion. Highly recommended!!

informational

encourages me to get out there and explore and experience new places. I'm thoroughly enjoyed this book

Should Be Required Reading

I learned more from listening to this book than I ever learned in school. I especially enjoyed this being my spouse and are permanent travelers. We really resonated with this book. You won’t waste your time falling into this read, you’ll climb out hopefully a bit wiser and very much inspired. Well done Rick. You’ve got my vote.

Must read

There are so many good perspectives in this book. Great book to get you thinking.