Edmonds, Washington – Nestled in the heart of Edmonds, Washington, is the beloved travel guru, Rick Steves, engaging in a unique form of protest that resembles more of a cheerful gesture than a traditional picket. The iconic travel host, known for his adventures abroad, sits on the edge of a fountain roundabout, waving at passing cars while silently advocating for a pedestrian-friendly environment in his hometown. With a backdrop of the Puget Sound, less than 20 miles north of Seattle, Steves hopes to bring a touch of European charm to the bustling American city.
Having moved to Edmonds with his family at a young age, Steves, now 68, remains deeply connected to the community. Despite his extensive travels across Europe and undeniable success in the travel industry, he is committed to local activism, pushing for initiatives like transforming Edmonds’s Main Street into a car-free zone for the benefit of pedestrians. Through his efforts, Steves envisions creating a vibrant town square, reminiscent of the lively piazzas he admires in Europe.
Beyond his advocacy for car-free zones, Steves is a vocal supporter of various causes, including affordable housing, arts funding, and senior care facilities. His activism extends to political engagement, with a clear stance against the policies of former President Donald Trump and a vocal proponent of cannabis legalization, even if it may not be popular for his business endeavors.
In addition to his activism, Steves is a prominent figure in the travel industry, known for his bestselling guidebooks, television shows, and tour company. With a focus on making European travel accessible and enriching for the average American, Steves has built a successful empire that generates millions in revenue annually. Despite his busy schedule, he remains dedicated to his mission of providing valuable resources for travelers and advocating for sustainable tourism practices.
One of Steves’s most notable initiatives is his commitment to environmental sustainability. Through his tour company, he implements a self-imposed “carbon tax” to offset the emissions generated by transatlantic flights for his customers. By investing in environmental initiatives, Steves demonstrates his dedication to creating a more sustainable travel industry and a healthier planet for future generations.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Steves is actively involved in his community, supporting local arts organizations, affordable housing initiatives, and senior care facilities. His generosity and philanthropy have had a significant impact on the city of Edmonds, contributing to the development of vibrant gathering places and cultural institutions that benefit residents of all ages.
As a prominent figure in the travel industry, Steves has faced criticism for the potential impacts of his work on popularizing certain destinations and contributing to issues like overtourism. However, he remains committed to promoting responsible travel practices and engaging his audience in thoughtful exploration of diverse cultures and destinations.
Despite his global influence and success, Steves’s heart remains close to home in Edmonds, where he finds joy in simple pleasures like playing the piano, engaging in community events, and spending time with loved ones. Through his activism, philanthropy, and commitment to sustainable travel, Rick Steves continues to make a positive impact both locally and globally, inspiring others to explore the world with an open mind and compassionate heart.