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 and often frightening events, from Trump, Brexit, and Erdogan, to climate change, nativism, and populism, 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 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.

All royalties from the sale of Travel as a Political Act are donated to support the work of Bread for the World, a non-partisan organization working to end hunger at home and abroad.

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.

A great book for any traveler!

I enjoyed Rick’s cultural descriptions and comparisons to the United States. He helps you to reflect on the real purpose of traveling.

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.

Extremely thought provoking

This book was thoroughly enjoyable. His explanations of the origins political turmoil — San Salvador, Iran and the Holy Land — gave me much better insight. I have always felt that Rick is an extremely talented storyteller, and this is one of the best examples that I can think of his talent.