Travel As A Political Act begins with a simple yet profound idea: to truly understand our world, we must experience it firsthand. This book, penned by travel expert Rick Steves, explores how travel bridges divides, connects individuals on a human level, and fosters innovative solutions to global challenges in our increasingly interconnected world.
Drawing from his extensive travel experiences, Rick Steves illuminates how anyone can embark on a more conscious and globally aware journey, regardless of their destination. Through compelling field reports from diverse locations including Europe, Central America, and the Holy Land, he demonstrates the transformative power of travel in shaping political views and broadening personal perspectives. These insightful narratives reveal how stepping outside our comfort zones can lead to a deeper understanding of global issues and our place within the larger world.
This expanded 2021 edition has been thoroughly updated, featuring a new chapter titled “Hunger and Hope: Lessons from Ethiopia and Guatemala.” In this addition, Steves shares his firsthand observations on effective development aid initiatives that empower impoverished communities to overcome extreme poverty. Furthermore, the book offers timely perspectives on pressing global issues such as navigating the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, addressing climate change and promoting climate-smart solutions, understanding the complexities of nativism and immigration, examining the realities of Islam and Christendom, and analyzing the impacts of Brexit and the European Union.
Authored by Rick Steves, a respected voice in travel, “Travel as a Political Act” is more than just a guide; it’s an invitation to engage with the world in a meaningful way. All royalties from the book are donated to Bread for the World, a non-profit organization dedicated to combating hunger, reinforcing the book’s core message of impactful global citizenship.
This book is ideal for Americans seeking a more enriching and purposeful travel experience. By approaching travel as a political act, readers can not only enjoy remarkable adventures but also return home with a heightened awareness of global interconnectedness and a clearer understanding of America’s role in the international landscape. Recognized for its insightful perspective, the first edition was honored as “Travel Book of the Year” by the Society of American Travel Writers in 2010, affirming its lasting value and relevance.
