I’m a big Rick Steves fan. I have used his guides and watch his shows since the 90’s. I like his travel style and he’s just a great guy. One thing I realized, though, is that I can’t have the same experience Rick has.
I wanted to have the same trip that I saw on TV or read in his books, which is impossible. It’s impossible to have anyone else’s travel experience, even if you follow someone’s itinerary to the letter. Again, love Rick, but I do have some advice for using his travel guidance.
We were in Rome, standing outside the Borghese Museum, waiting for our tour time to start. By the way, pay for the self guided tour headset. There is very little information posted at the exhibits and book early. Anyway, I would say 50% of the crowd waiting outside had a Rick Steves guidebook in their hands. 100% of those were american tourists.
Another time, we were in Positano waiting on the next-to-the-last bus back to Sorrento and it was FULL! We were packed in like sardines for a very curvy 2 hour bus ride. I was wedged between the railing and the bus entryway. I don’t think Judy’s feet were even touching the floor. When we finally pulled into Sorrento someone yelled out “Damn you Rick Steves!” and the bus went up in a roar. Next time we’re hiring a driver.
To be fair, Rick warns against taking the bus back from Positano that late in the day. I mention these stories to show how pervasive and widely used Rick’s guides are and that they’re a great tool. But they are a tool that needs to be used properly.
Part 2 coming soon!
