This Blog Won the “Oscar” of Travel Blogs

I have some very exciting news: This week I was honored with the “Oscar” of travel writing – the Society of American Travel Writers’ Travel Writer of the Year Award. In addition to this grand prize, my on-the-road blog posts won the gold medal for Best Travel Blog. Since I have so much fun sharing my travels with you – and the judges singled out your thoughtful comments as one of the strengths of this blog – this award means a great deal to me.

In celebration, I’d like to take some of my favorite posts out for a victory lap. Beginning Monday, I will run a “Best of Blog” series for one week. Over the weekend, please use the comments section below to nominate your favorite entry to be included in the lineup. Which of my blog entries have stirred your wanderlust, or caused you to think differently about travel and the world? I’ll try to add one or two of your suggestions to next week’s series.

Thank you, Society of American Travel Writers, for these great honors. And thank you, my readers, for being my virtual travel partners!

How does somebody do the inglorious legwork it takes to become such a “distinguished” travel writer? This clip will give you a sense of my daily routine while I’m updating guidebooks in Europe.

If you can’t see the video below, watch it on YouTube.

Comments

11 Replies to “This Blog Won the “Oscar” of Travel Blogs”

  1. Rick,
    Congratulations on the award! I really enjoyed your behind the scenes look at a day in your life. You have inspired my travel dreams with your show, your website, and your books. You have been the friendly voice in my ear urging us forward as my wife and I have explored Germany, London, Ireland, and next spring Italy. Thank you.

  2. Rick, as usual, you are amazing, thanks for all you do! You are most deserving of this award! Only two books I am taking on my trip to France and Italy next week are authored by yourself. Happy travels! Karen

  3. Rick, in addition to being fantastic references for the independent traveler (in the context of getting from Point A to Point B, exploring an area or a site of interest, or seeking a recommended restaurant or hotel), I feel that the one valuable aspect that sets your guidebooks apart from the rest is the annual update. As you demonstrate in this clip, it literally takes a lot of leg work from you and your colleagues at ETBD, but the benefits to the traveler are great. Thank you for your commitment to keeping your guidebooks current and as accurate as possible. That is why I always purchase them for my European travels!

  4. Congrats on the well-deserved award!

    I’ve always loved your shows, and now, your blog.

    Love the post about bargaining at the markets.

    Travel is so much fun if we really get into the spirit and interact with the locals.

  5. Congratulations on the award, Rick! My husband and I have been on two Rick Steves tours and are planning another. We really appreciate your philosophy about traveling, and being a tourist. We’ve also loved your guide books especially how consistently current they are. Thanks for the clip, so we can see what it takes to make that happen.

  6. Congratulations Rick,

    Great job! I love touring with you.(through your videos)…:) and look forward to the first time I set foot in Europe. Yes, the first time and I know it will be successful because of your advice. Thank you for all the great work you do!

    John

  7. Well deserved award! Debbie and I have traveled with you (ETBD) for the past ten years and find your writing (and tours) to be the best. May you continue to serve the public in such a rewarding endeavor.

  8. Dear Rick, Congratulations on this VERY WELL deserved award.
    Our family just did our 1st trip to Europe and visited London, Paris, Budapest, Vienna, Venice, and stayed 5 days with friends in Switzerland. Total 21 days. Except for Switzerland, everything was planned according to your guides… from packing to dealing with the people, mixing with them and trying to get a grip of their culture. We have already started to plan our next trip… hopefully for 8-10 days… and the 1st guidelines are your books, DVD’s and blogs…
    All your recommendations are taken at heart! and also all the “personal security, take care of yourself” ideas… flying, bus, train, everything… The dish of the Day! EVERYTHING!
    We wish you health, and all the best.. ALWAYS. Please keep working, so we can keep enjoying! I envy your work!
    The Garcia-Bitar’s

  9. Congratulations Rick on your award, for you truly so deserve it. Your tours are awesome, your travel tour guides are amazing and the hotels are fabulous. I did one of your tours in 2006 as a solo traveler to Ireland for 14 days it was a great experience and not at one time did I feel like a solo traveler. I met so many new friends and continue to stay in touch with some of them. Next year I will be going on your southern Italy tour for 13 days with my husband. I cannot wait to share this experience with him. Continue to do what you do!!! it is so important for travelers and friends. God bless and stay true to yourself. Have a great holiday with your family. I so envy your JOB!!!

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