Last month someone who works for the company that makes our bags signed up to support a group fighting to protect salmon from some development. They started printing my name on their fliers, and I asked them to stop putting my name on their material. They concluded I was “anti-salmon,” and now schools of salmon-lovers are upset with me.
I filmed the force-feeding of the geese on a farm in France’s Dordogne region, where I interviewed the farmer about the treatment of their geese and their love of this delicacy. Yesterday my staff told me there’s an orchestrated campaign from PETA to get me to stop talking about that delicious slice of French cuisine and get active against the mistreatment of geese. (Anthony Bourdain did a wonderful video clip about his appreciation of foie gras on YouTube.) I don’t care if they are monogamous…they’re just fancy chickens to me, and we humans rule the food chain. I told the people who answer our phones not to be intimidated, and that I wouldn’t be cowed by PETA over geese.
Then I got this email from Daniel R:
“Rick Steves’ comment about finding used French postcards along the Amalfi Coast was inappropriate. He owes his NPR listeners an apology.”
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If “French postcards” means what I think it means, Daniel is complaining about me sharing on my radio show how I stumbled on lots of used condoms on the Amalfi Coast, and could actually measure the intensity of each scenic turnout along Italy’s most romantic stretch of coastline by the number of condoms that littered the asphalt. I wasn’t promoting the practice…just relating what I saw. It’s simply romantic couples appreciating nature, making love, and practicing safe sex. Their worst offense: littering (and perhaps offending people who aren’t able to enjoy the view quite so much). At least I didn’t put this photo in the book.
Is a travel writer supposed to be a provocateur? Should I not talk about bullfights, force-fed geese, and condoms? Should I condemn those who do things that offend us…or share their passion? I suppose we are all politically correct in different — thankfully unpredictable — ways. Life would be boring if we had one-size-fits-all correctness. As a travel writer, I’m just beachcombing after the cultural storm caused by my world meeting another. My work is to stroll the beach and take home curious observations to enjoy, ogle, and fiddle with. Then I share them with my readers.
On Wednesday, I fly to Granada in southern Spain, kicking off two months of travel. I’ll hope to have some fresh treasures to share.
Write what you want. They’re your books. Your books are clearly labeled “Rick Steves” — anyone who takes offense to your words can simply not read them.
I find it shocking that you showed all these “spent” condoms on the Amalfi Coast. Italy is as Roman Catholic as any country could be, and it boggles the mind to see that the Vatican has not slowed the use of these life saving devices. I have seen trash bins in parks for pet waste, maybe the Italians should consider providing some sort of receptacle, other than the convenient reservoir tip. Keep up the social commentary. This is why we sample different societies in our travels.
Rick, the day your books are approved by PETA is the day I stop reading them. Keep up the good work, and if your books can increase American demand for fois gras (hence making it more readily available here!), then all the better.
I really look forward to having you back in Europe and telling about everything you see and hear. You bring a unique point of view to travel and I think we can all take a bit of a break from US politics and cynicism. I hope you will blog frequently (at least every three days?), because that’s really why we visit this site. Keep on travelin’!
Well, nowdays, PETA, as well as other organizations try to regulate other people and force the rest of us to adopt their line of thinking. Sorry PETA, but while I am a dog-lover, I am not going to become a vegan. Big fish eats little fish, people eat animals. I think that is why God placed them on Earth. OH, sorry, maybe PETA is an atheist organization. The Roman Catholic Church can say all it wants against the use of condoms, however, they cannot keep those wanting to use them from doing so. LOL
Ric….NOT TO WORRY….!
This one made me laugh; thank you for posting it. PETA, aka a social terrorist group, is one of the groups I despise because they use violent methods to force people into their way of thinking. They make me want to wear fur every day of the year! Humans are such funny creatures. So what have I learned today? 1) If you haven’t tasted fois gras, then you can’t rail against it. 2) If you use rubbers, for goodness sake dispose of them properly. 3) Rick Steves consistently brightens my day! Granada is one of my favorite places in Europe. Please share your thoughts as you travel these next two months; I get such a vicarious high from reading about your travels.
People, lighten up on the condoms. At one camping place in Italy, a little girl I know saw many of them on the ground and she said. “Look, they must have had a birthday party. Look at all the balloons.”
It seems to me that liberals (I consider you a liberal, Rick) come in all stripes and cannot be accurately described as monolithic. Sadly, I don’t think that is as true about conservatives. Keep writing, Rick, and I’ll keep reading.
Keep writing what ever you want! When I first started reading your blogs I was a little worried because of all the political controversy, but it really doesn’t seem to effect people traveling by your books. I know they get out of control and angry on this blog sometimes, but humans are kind of selfish and they are going to go on vacation if they want anyway. I do appreciate everything you bring to your books, because when I travel I want to know what to expect good and bad. It has made our trips a lot less stressful and more enjoyable! Thanks
I lived in Naples, Italy for 3 years as a young teenager. We would wander around the beautiful but isolated areas of town and would discover, as you did, the spent “traces of love” littered on the ground. It is still a memory that makes me smile. More than a century ago, condums were referred to as “French letters” by the English, and as “English letters” by the French. It’s all in your point of view, no?
Rick I just read that the majority Notre Dame does not want Obama coming out there May 17. Is this person a relative of Anne’s like her brother or something “Notre Dame President the Rev. John Jenkins has said the university does not condone all of Obama’s policies but that it’s important to engage in conversation.” How do you feel about this, with Andy there and you a strong Obama supporter?
For pete’s sake Euros, throw the used condoms in the trash can! Throwing them on the ground is just disgusting….kind of like blowing your nose into the gutter in public, or allowing your children to urinate on the cobblestones outside the Colloseum. Oh wait, I’ve seen both of those things in my travels. Its just different over there, isn’t it? Sometimes its good different, and sometimes its not so good different, but its always interesting different. PETA on the other hand is the same no matter where you go…strident and annoying and pushy. Gosh, Rick, you’ve got PETA on your case, and a few blogs ago you were bashing the US media. Sometimes you sound like a (gasp) conservative.
Just because you tell things the way they are doesn’t mean you endorse them. This failure to go after the truth and tell-it-like-it-is, is one of the things killing newspapers – who wants to read a tepid rag with bland content that can be found anywhere? As much as I endorse saving salmon and other noble causes, these organizations are simply overreacting. You’re right to ignore them.
A unlube rubber is a great place to stash a $40.00 sack. Safe travels in Spain Rick.
Rick first of all they did something illegal- they committed a fraud by advertising without your permission to use your name you were committed to their organization so I guess they think a good defense is a good offense. And as to PETA you are entitled to your opinion. For the postcards three words freedom of speech.
Well, the Taliban are us. Anyone who tries to shut down someone else for their non-hateful opinion has some Taliban in them. We’ve seen plenty of people on this blog telling Rick to shut up about one thing or another. PETA? I may not agree on tactics,but I do agree we process and kill animals in a brutal, inhumane way, often. I appreciate their voice which brings that situation to me. French Love Letters: I’m sure glad there are responsible people out there. I hope my daughter is one of them. Boycott APARTHEID Israel and anyone else who abuses a segment of any population.
Hi Rick, the outrage that folks occasionally exhibit – PETA members and those afraid of condoms – are underlining your popularity. You are feared and badgered simply because so many other love to hear your stories. Keep ’em coming. Can’t wait to walk the Amalfi coast again with my husband. This time without kids. Kidding.
You and Bourdain would do a hell of a show together. I would love to see that. Two perspectives working together but worlds apart. Can I have some more FOIE GRAS?!
When we met last year, Rick, I remember you saying you were headed back to Andalucia in the Spring. You’re making me want to go back there (especially Sevilla). Gunther, always good to read your comments, and I am in 100% agreement with you in regards to the treatment of the Palestinians…
Reading this post, I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. Heaven forbid you should report the world as it is, instead of how every individual or interest group would like it to be. Sometimes I think “freedom of speech” is increasingly being interpreted as “*You* have the freedom to talk about what *I* want to hear and believe!” Keep on traveling, Rick!
Cruelty to animals is unnecessary to satisfy our palette.Certainly we can forego the pleasure of foie gras in france or veal in north america.These animals are raised and slaughtered in conditions of deprivation and forced confinement and feeding for their entire lives.There is nothing natural or human about that.It is absolutely barbaric and shows the worst side of human superiority.Im all for eating livestock and we are at the top of the food chain but we dont need to be cruel and barbaric to achieve our goals. Many of you who are dismissing the cruelty of foie gras or veal are probably the first to decry the slaughter of elephants in africa,tigers in asia or whales in japan.These animals suffer a much less cruel end than the force fed livestock that we put on our plates daily. The Japanese eat whale meat as a delicacy,we eat foie gras.Where do we get the chutzpah to tell them they cant hunt whales then?
I make a chicken liver pate’ that rivals any “choking” goose pate’ made in France. It makes men roar and makes women want to run around without their panties.
Congrats, Rick! You have ticked off PETA! I consider that a true accomplishment! I love that you are honest and straight forward about what to expect when Americans travel to Europe–I want to enjoy every minute of my time when traveling AND I don’t want to insult citizens of different countries with inappropriate or thoughtless actions. I do think that since you have the unique perspective of a frequent visitor, you can offer sound advice and in your position as a travel writer, perhaps, that is your responsibility. As for PETA and their friends, I simply find them amusing. I live not far from a city that requires citizens to refer to their pets as “animal companions” and ticketed a woman for tinting her white toy poodle pink–even though she used organic beet juice! In my never humble opinion, if I don’t like something or find it distasteful–I simply avoid it. I am not a fan of goose pate–however, Paul’s chicken liver pate sounds most interesting–I don’t necessarily want his recipe–I’d like him to make it and share…. Hmmmm, now how could a travel writer make THAT work?? Have a wonderful trip and PLEASE keep on writing!! My pet poodle and I love reading your work!
While I’ve posted my disagreements on some or your liberal views, I have always believed that you had a right to express your opinions. I am not a vegan nor an animal rights activist and watching the video on the geese was difficult for me. But I understand why and how they do it, far be it from me to tell them what is right and wrong. Also thank you for the observation on the used condoms, I have no issue with those choosing to practice safe sex(or where). Though I would prefer to know which areas to avoid, due to the condom dumping grounds. I do not want to leave a scenic view only to realize 15 min’s later that I have 3 or 4 condoms stuck to my shoe, like a strand of toilet paper. Continue to voice your opinions and observations no matter who may object be it PETA,Locals or me. Enjoy your freedoms.
Rick, Keeping on pissing off PETA. For folks who think they are just advocating the protection of animals, if you have any pets you might as well get rid of them now because PETA’s agenda includes the extinction of ALL domesticated animals including cats and dogs. The EXTINCTION of them. The Humane Society of the US is right there with them, too. I don’t have the links at hand to support this, but I would imagine if you Google it you can find where the president of the HSUS has said exactly that. Try to take my pets away from me and I might have to break down and get a gun to stop you. Incidentally, not ALL food animals are factory farmed. There is a growing movement in this country towards raising cattle, sheep, pigs and chickens on pasture and using the most humane methods of slaughter available. Also, please be aware, there is a difference between animal welfare and animal rights. I never want to see animals having the right to have an attorney appointed if they cannot afford one, but I am all for maintaining their welfare.
For those of you who wish to see the hypocrisy of PETA exposed, check out http://www.petakillsanimals.com/. And, as alluded to by some of the Rickniks in the above comments, PETA’s true goal is for everyone to become a vegan. Rick, thanks for not caving into the pressure.
Why is everyone making this a peta issue?Who cares about peta.You dont have to be a peta member to realize that caged confinement and forced feeding is cruel. I think people are trying to ignore the real issue here and just find scapegoat instead of understanding their likely contribution to this cruel treatment via our mass consumption of supermarket food.Yes i am guilty of this but i try to buy as much organic as possible and no red meat.
dave s – why, you sound just like a PETA member. Are you an expert in animal well-being? Do you have any scientific evidence that cages are cruel? Try feeding the world with a bunch of backyard hens and organic food. 9 billion humans on this planet by 2050. Get real.
Foie gras, fwah gwah? How do you properly say that anyway? Rick’s post reminded me of this fun, quick video, a little french lesson for the day for you and your kids! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLwGAybSyWg
Ricks France book saved my vaca. in Versailles. I agree with your point to write about what you want. To many in America and the world feel if they don’t like something they need to shut it down. Free speech means you are free to agree with them, or shut up. I believe the Wiemar republic started the same way. Militant envirmentally ill, PETA, ELF, ALF are all to one degree or another just mini terror groups. I recently went to a protest by one of these loving groups and was splattered with feces and other treats. Funny they love the earth so much they fly in private jets to protect it, and then leave huge messes. You Mr. Gore, Hollywood elite, Mrs. Obama flys to Chicago in a 747 jumbo jet for din din with friends, by her self. They care about the feel good press nothing else. We are responsible for the earth, it is ours to use and leave clean. Its funny the most vocal do the most damage!
I have to add to this. However, I will porbably say what many have already said. As for those ripping the inhumane treatment of the geese, maybe you should watch RIck’s episode on the Dordogne where he visits a goose farm. YOu can see where they are free and aren’t harmed in the feeding. Apparently, some on here are ripping Rick without seeing how he actually covered this in one of his episodes. I LOVE animals and have had pets my entire life. However, PETA is a joke. As for the used condoms, reporting on something is not the same as condoning it. However, it would be nice if Italians and others along the Amalfi coast could pick up their “trash.”
I saw a different video of goose fored feeding, and it convinced me it wasn’t cruel in the least. The geese came running for their feeding! I learned something, don’t assume anything.
We must close the Zoos, and get those elephants and other animals back to the jungle, where they belong. I have heard of lions and tigers in Africa that are hungry, just because someone keeps the elephants caged up and fed daily, instead of letting them free in the jungle, to be a meal tomorrow.
dave s – Are you an expert in animal well-being? Do you have any scientific evidence that cages are cruel? Posted by: PETA kills You are kidding?how about stuffing your pets in a cage or yourself and let us know if its cruel.Honestly some people here sound like old cranks or supporters of the previous 8yr failed fiasco.Im surprised that rick steves attracts the type. As for feeding 9 billion,you can feed it a lot more easily and cheaper with a non meat diet as it is way less energy and water intensive.It might not even be possible to sustain a population of 9bil with meat diets.People here should read some books not watch fox.
Free speech means you are free to agree with them, or shut up. I believe the Wiemar republic started the same way. Militant envirmentally ill, PETA, ELF, ALF are all to one degree or another just mini terror groups. I recently went to a protest by one of these loving groups and was splattered with feces and other treats! Posted by: andy – Mar 30, 2009 3:24 PM Oh god,talk about another fox news hypocrite.And baloney you were ever splattered with feces…
For all you intellectuals posting out there–it’s the Weimar republic, not the Wiemar.
Every time my dogs ride in my car, they ride in cages. When we go to shows they spend time in cages where I know they are safe since I can only have one dog in the ring with me at a time. If they go to the vet and have to spend the night, what do you think the vet keeps them in? Cages. As temporary housing a cage (or kennel or crate–whatever your preferred name) is not cruel and in many cases can be a life saver. I know three different people–personally mind you, not apocryphal tales–whose dogs survived car wrecks because they were safely crated in the car, not riding loose. So yes, I “stuff” my pets in cages (um, yeah, and they are so eager to go in them because they are “stuffed” in them, sure). Dave S you might want to quit swallowing hook, line and sinker everything the animal rights terror groups say. Incidentally, the day a dog can pay taxes is the day a dog can have rights like a human. Until then, I will look out for their WELFARE, but not advocate for their RIGHTS. Learn the difference.
Rick Steves, you are a breath of fresh air. I may not always agree with you (at least to start with – you have a way of being rather persuasive) but I sure appreciate your willingness to share your opinion and not worry about your popularity. And especially as a fellow “unconventional” Christian, I very much appreciate that you aren’t cowed by people who want to judge you because of the way you express your faith. Please keep it up!
This week I am in Paris with my wife and daughter (both teachers on spring break). Yesterday at the Orangerie we saw a class of 3rd graders being given a tour by their leader (teacher). All three of us immediatly comented that a school that would expose it’s childen to nude paintings would immediately be sued by several parents as well as lead the “Breaking News at 11 – Special Investigation”. It is a shame we cannot even comment on life without someone becoming offended. My advice is that if you don’t like someone/something, then just avoid it. Don’t make it your mission in life to force everyone to agree with you. I know all of my opinions are not “right”. Maybe some of yours aren’t as well. And anyway – they are just opinions. Thanks for what you do Rick. Keep on observing.
I have always found zoo’s and cages really depressing. I suppose there is a difference between caging a wild animal and one born into captivity. It is very depressing that we keep animals in cages and then perform experiments on them. It is also depressing when I realize we (the usa) are either first or second in the world for keeping people in cages. I’m glad there are people who speak out against all these things, even if I might not agree with everything they say or everything they do.
Dave S – one more comment. Watch Rick’s episode on the Dordogne and the geese, how they are fed, how they are NOT in cages and allowed to run free. Then you can come back on here and admit you were wrong. Not every animal used for food is caged or kept in horrible conditions. Given Rick’s post on this and his perspective (HE FILMED PART OF AN EPISODE ON THIS), he has a much more hands on experience than the books you read.
The geese are fat and happy. They don’t know they’ll be someone’s dinner. Let them enjoy their life.
I was in London yesterday/today on a short stop on the way to Mumbai. Unfortunately the city was pretty crowded with anti capatilists demonstrators, especially in the banking center of the city. You were safe if you stayed away from the main area. Most demonstrators were reasonably polite and oderly but some were there to cause problems. The windows of the RBS main bank were broken and the demonstraters went inside and sprayed the walls with slogans and tiped over desks. It is interesting to note that the protesters who were doing the damage were all wearing masks with the hope of not being identified. To bad they didn’t have the courage of their convictions. Also, I was interested to see that while most are happy with what we are doing for the economy, they don’t like the fact that we are trying to spend are way out of the resession/depression. Some leaders are quite upset. It will be interesting to see what comes of the G20 meetings today. Most Euros feel we should let some companies go broke if necessary. I am glad I am not making the final decisions. We need to pray for our leaders.
As we’re fond of saying where I come from ( Newfoundland Canada), “it takes all kinds to make a world” We each have our own perspective on whats “right” or “wrong” and that variety in world views is what makes living/travelling so rewarding. Unfortunately there are groups that see their perspective as “right” and they try to force that viewpoint on the rest of us( eg PETA). The important thing is to ” not sweat it”… many, many people appreciate the variety and candor you provide Rick, as the success of you varied business interests and the popularity of your website demonstrate. You are doing a fabulous job for all of us travel lovers. Keep it up!!
Keep doing what you are doing. I like your books because you do have opinions, and share them. I also love seeing things I don’t see in the US. You don’t have to represent the opinions of every nut, saint or cause. Just be yourself. It is attractive to our culture where people are so afraid to be genuine. We love your stories, your observations and your respect for the world and it’s people. Keep writing and filming.
I am not an animal rights nut, but I noticed on youtube next to your link of a humane farm, a very nasty example of an inhumane farm, see http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IWN8UGDyC0&NR=1 So not all foie gras producers are as humane as shown in your video. From your travel videos and the link you gave, one can easily be misled. You need to see the other examples to get a balanced view and make sure your foie gras is coming from happy ducks and geese. Geary
If you put a French goose in a large hat box, cut a hole the size of a nicle in it….and blow marijauna smoke into the box…the goose will be happy. I tried it with my cat, so I’m pretty sure it works with geese too.
oh guys… gosh, reading these comments is making my head spin. I had to stop about halfway down. Rick, I’m surprised and ever-so-slightly amused with your response to the PETA issue, even though I’m an animal lover. I’m not a vegetarian but I do steer clear of dishes like veal and foie gras due to the graphic torture involved in preparation. No, Curtis, the geese are not “fat and happy,” let’s hook up a giant food-funnel to your mouth like a hose to a water balloon and see how you like it. Everyone has to have an opinion on everything and it’s really just unnecessary and disgusting to say the least. I love this site and Rick’s books and won’t stop reading… until the other readers push me to the breaking point with their nonsensical comments. (PS. can’t wait for that first “don’t read it if it pisses you off” comment! truly looking forward to it *sigh*)
Rick, I have been a big fan of yours for years. My wife bought me a set of your videos and two of your books for Christmas this past year. I watch your shows on Chicago’s WTTW and WYCC regularly. That said, I am really surprised that you take such a callous attitude toward animals. Surely if you saw human beings being treated in a cruel manner and being slaughtered wholesale, you would be outraged and rightfully so. Why is it acceptable to treat animals in this way? You are undoubtedly intelligent and rational enough to know that animals feel pain and have emotions. Science has demonstrated this time and time again. I would think you would be consistent enough to oppose mistreatment of sentient animals. I hope you really think about this. As I type this, one of my two cats is sitting contentedly at my side. The bond I have with my cats is strong, and clearly mutual. This is reason enough, to me, to not eat any animals. At the very least, I would hope you would use your influence to improve the treatment of animals if they must be killed for food. I live very well without eating animals. And I will continue to watch your shows and buy your books, and enjoy travel to Europe with my wife. Peace out.
Heya Rick, great article as always. My opinion is if the extreme right and extreme left are both mad at you for not being extreme enough, then you’re right where you’re supposed to be. Happy travels!
I’m absolutely amazed with the comments on this message board! What happened to accepting people and cherishing peoples’ opinions and differences? Does that only apply when you meet people in Iran or India? As a 15 year vegetarian who doesn’t support PETA but is appalled at hearing it labeled as a terrorist group, (Have we learned nothing from the last 8 years of fear mongering?) I find it disgusting and insulting to read the degrading comments about my lifestyle. I have never tried to persuade anyone into giving up meat and have always supported peoples’ right to eat meat however I do believe strongly that people should understand where and how the food they consume is raised and slaughtered. I think it is good for Rick Steves’ to show the process of producing foie gras but let’s not pretend this is the preferred method for ethnically raising geese. There was a very good story done on this very issue on the F-Word, a British TV show. I highly recommend everyone watch it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRBfATTeD7U The woman who reports on the story is far from an animal rights/PETA activist – in fact she reported on the myths surrounding veal production in the U.K and came out highly supporting the consumption of veal. I would never support the censorship of anyone and believe this type of discussion is a healthy part of our democracy but let’s be respectful of people. Also, try to remember meat from happy and healthy meat tastes better. I wonder how many peoples’ tough talk (including overly opinionated uneducated nuts like Anthony Bourdain) about the slaughter of meat would hold up if they were the ones doing the slaughter. It is harder than you think – when the majority of people buy their meat in an unrecognizable form in a shrink wrapped package at the supermarket it is easy to support unethical practices of raising and slaughtering meat. Being so far removed from the farming and the slaughter of our food is another issue entirely!
Right on, Jessica. How we treat other sentient beings is one measure of how civilized a society is. Over time, we as a species have determined that it is wrong to permit acts of animal cruelty. In most of the civilized world, certain practices are no longer acceptable, such as bear baiting, bull fighting, cock fighting, and pit bull fighting. We no longer have bull vs. bear fights as the Mexicans did in the 18th and 19th centuries, and most people are appalled at the slaughter of seals by Canadian fishermen or whales by the Norwegians, the Japanese or the Makah tribe in Washington State. Thoughtful people are shocked by the aerial hunting of wolves in Alaska, the capture of orcas to amuse humans at your local aquarium and the live capture of wild animals for zoos. The wanton decimation of the American Bison in the late 19th century was a national tragedy. We now recognize endangered species and try to save them, not for human use but because all life forms have a right to exist. Over time, we as a species have developed a more evolved conscience, a sense of right and wrong when it comes to how we treat animals. Perhaps it will take centuries, but some day most people may look back at their ancestors with revulsion, not understanding why they would have continued to kill and eat other living beings when there was no longer a necessity to do so.
Right on, to the animal lovers. I also look forward to the day we stop demonizing other human cultures, so we can take their stuff…and kill them if they resist.
Fred in Atlanta wrote…”You and Bourdain would do a hell of a show together. I would love to see that. Two perspectives working together but worlds apart.” I’d pay to see that ;-) Hurrah that we are all so wonderfully different! [So sad to learn that the PETA folks & NPR listener need to expend energies & are offended like this.] Am very thankful for having the opportunity to learn about & ‘participate’ in world culture thru your travels. You’ve been my inspiration time & time again to keep heading out the door to a new journey. Cheers!