Last weekend we attended the Rick Steves Travel Fair in Edmonds, Washington. Rick is based in Edmonds, and I was surprised at the number of people who came from all over the US and Canada to hear him speak.
He gave slideshows of trips to Iran, Eastern Europe, and Ireland as well as seminars on traveling in Europe and packing appropriately.
The thing I really liked about the fair was Rick’s attitude about travel. My favorite line was that a traveler should “seek to become a temporary local citizen” in every stop to better appreciate the experience. Very well said, Rick.
We came away with some great ideas and tips, including:
- Start with more developed countries first to ease culture shock (England before India, for example)
- If you think something might make you sick (cuisine, weather, etc.) make it the last stop on your trip
- Visit popular places at non-peak times, such early morning or evening, to avoid the tour bus crush
- Stay overnight in some of the “hot spots” – many travel companies make these daily destinations instead of overnight stays, so you can get some really great deals
- Buy museum/activity passes for the discount as well as the ability to bypass long lines
- Pick up a copy of the city’s local weekly for the most current events instead of the travel books
We are still torn on how much to pack. We found a great backpack at REI a few weeks ago, but Rick advocates an even smaller pack. Can you live out of a pack that small long-term?
If you ever get a chance to attend one of his free events you should check it out. Of course he spends some time promoting his tours and books, but he also gives away a lot of free information and is quite entertaining.
The fair happens twice a year and each week on Thursday evening his company holds a travel class in downtown Edmonds. More info can be found at his website.
About Betsy
Hi Betsy: You probably already know this but maybe others do not. Rick Steves has programs frequently (weekly) on PBS. I love to watch them and learn about all the countries he visits. He has built a huge business out of traveling the globe. My best as you continue planning your wonderful trip. My son and I are planning a trip to Glasgow, (my father’s birthplace and relatives still there) in the Spring and we will be using Rick Steves services. Nancy
Nancy, thanks for stopping by. Your trip to Glasgow sounds fantastic! Please keep us informed about your travels. We would love to hear about it!
Rick also told us he has 12 new shows that are coming out on Mondays on PBS, so there will be more variety now than before. The new shows started last week, so be sure to check them out.
Rick Steves is a god. We both read his "In Through the Back Door" book before our first trip to Europe. And now, I’m glad to see that he has expanded his empire beyond Europe. His philosophy of travel falls right in line with ours, and his materials are brilliant, especially the older ones.
The other travel quote I like is from Anthony Bourdain from "No Reservations." He says, "Be a traveler, not a tourist."
I love that Anthony Bourdain quote! We have read similar quotes from authors like Rolf Potts. Our goal is to be temporary local citizens and not tourists, and I’m sure we will be using Rick’s books when traveling in Europe. interesting side note – he said his main business will always be Europe, but his favorite place to travel is India. Who knew?