Destination: Berlin

When I share political observations learned from talking with people in foreign countries, some people say, “Rick, stick to travel.” But these ideas are the very essence of travel. My mission is to help make travel a broadening and educational experience. That’s why I’ve written a book called Travel as a Political Act.

This clip shares a few thoughts that hit me several years ago, as I stood among Germans at the top of their glassy, then-new Reichstag dome in Berlin — thoughts on the dangers of a dumbed-down society. It’s just one minute, excerpted from my 80-minute “Travel as a Political Act” talk. Warning: If you think I should “stick to travel,” watching that talk could make you really angry.

From time to time, we share a random video clip to fuel your travel dreams. Join us today as we explore the art and architecture that was used as Soviet propaganda in East Berlin.

Watch my complete TV episode about Berlin on our website.

I’ve been thinking about a poignant memorial at the Reichstag in Berlin dedicated to the 96 members of the German congress who spoke out against Hitler, but failed to stop him as he thundered into power in 1933. These were the last people who could have stopped the fascist dictator…so they were imprisoned and then became his first victims. Each slate slab remembers one politician, with his name, political party, and the date and location of his death (generally in a concentration camp). They are honored in front of the building — Germany’s capitol — where they worked to defend democracy in their country.

From time to time we share a random video clip to fuel your travel dreams. Join us today as we visit Berlin and reflect on the 18th century reign of Frederick the Great. Under the Prussian Emperor, Berlin became both a military metropolis and a land of high culture.

Watch my complete TV episode about Berlin online for free on our website.