Before heading off on my spring trip to Europe, I had one big question: Would the provocative “America First” words and deeds of our new president affect how I’d be received by Europeans? In short, as an American, was I still “welcome” in Europe?
After more than two weeks in Spain — with a very small sample size of one traveler and one country — my main takeaway is that I’m surprised how little American politics came up, over dozens upon dozens of interactions with Spaniards. In fact, I detected no difference whatsoever — not one iota — in how I was treated here, compared to previous trips.
There is no resentful, angry edge; no sudden cold shoulder upon learning that I’m American; no nasty comments or hostile, pointed questions. Whether they’re indifferent or concerned, supportive of my president or terrified of him, Spaniards — and, I imagine, most Europeans — still afford each of us individual American travelers the same respect and warmth they always have.
When I polled travelers on my Facebook page about this question, everyone reported a similar experience — that politics rarely came up, and never resentfully. Some did say that they were asked more often than before about what’s happening in the US. However, these questions are posed in a spirit of genuine curiosity, part of a natural tendency to talk about — and to try to better understand — what’s in the news.
On my first day in Spain, I was chatting with a local guide I’ve known for years — someone who’s highly intelligent and well-informed. I started talking about Elon Musk. She said: “Elon who?”
As I stammered through an explanation, I was grateful for this reality check. Like most of us, I’m deeply embedded in a media bubble, one where the name “Elon Musk” triggers an avalanche of high emotion. Outside of my bubble, those connotations are different. And outside of my borders, all bets are off — in a way that struck me as refreshing.
In the end, while Trump (if not Musk) dominates Spanish headlines just like back home, being in Spain reminded me that most people on this planet are, fundamentally, pretty apolitical.
This might seem contradictory, but two things can be true at the same time: First, Europeans are aware of the broad strokes of what’s happening Stateside, and many are worried that Trump’s actions on a wide range of issues — from his brewing trade war to potentially ending military support in the critical fight for Ukraine — could have a significant impact on their lives. For example, if you produce olive oil or wine, and you depend upon selling your goods to an American market, you’d have cause to lose sleep over Trump’s on-again, off-again tariffs.
And yet, simultaneously, for most people these potential outcomes feel both distant and (so far) mostly hypothetical… enough to keep those worries on the back burner, and not to bubble over into resentment toward American visitors.
Front-of-mind worry is more focused on things that have an immediate impact on their day-to-day lives — such as the likelihood of rain ruining the Holy Week processions that everyone spent the last year preparing for. Until Semana Santa was behind them, the people of Andalucía had bigger fish to fry.
If Spaniards had a general response to my American-ness, it was to commiserate about what we’re facing. They feel for us, because they get it. Any Spaniard over the age of about 55 still has memories of their fascist dictator, Francisco Franco, who took control of Spain during its brutal Civil War and kept it until his death in 1975. Franco had groomed the king-in-waiting, Juan Carlos, to be his successor and carry on his strongman legacy. Instead, Juan Carlos shocked everyone by pivoting in the opposite direction, transforming Spain into a true democracy and a modern, open society, and rejoining the family of nations.
Viewing the grand scope of history, sometimes things break one way… and sometimes, the other. If Spain’s king had stuck to the course Franco charted, this corner of Europe may still be a backwards autocracy. And back home, if votes had gone just a little differently in a few key parts of our country last November, then we’d all be on a very different course today. Europeans, who have a knack for taking the long view of history, understand how these dice-rolls can alter the course of events, and they sympathize.
Of course, my experience on this trip is based exclusively on the places I’m visiting, and the people I’m talking to. I imagine there are other countries where people are already feeling a more “front-burner” worry… places where the conversations might be a little more, shall we say, animated. My Polish friends, living on the border with Ukraine, text me regularly about their concerns. And later this summer, I’ll be in Denmark — where, I expect, some Danes may be eager to talk about my president’s repeated threats to annex one of their territories, Greenland, “one way or the other.”
But after two weeks in Spain, I have a renewed confidence that nobody’s going to run me out of town on a rail… unless that’s how I choose to travel to my next destination.
§ § §
On my way to Spain, upon changing planes at Paris’ Charles de Gaulle Airport, I found myself in a long passport line — in fact, one of three passport lines. Bleary-eyed after the nine-hour flight, shuffling toward the uniformed guards, I glanced around and got to thinking about the role of the USA in the world. (I love it when travel triggers these little epiphanies.)
Upon entering the Schengen (European Union) passport check area, you’re immediately sorted into three groups: Europeans, who hold Schengen passports, enjoy VIP treatment and speedy processing. Then come those of us from the wealthy, non-Schengen world: Americans, Canadians, Brits, and so on. We get our own line, which is still relatively efficient, if not as slick as the EU line.
Standing in this second line, I saw a third line — one that I had never noticed before. This very long, very slow-moving line consisted almost entirely of people of color from what we might call the Second and Third Worlds: the nations of Africa, the Middle East, Asia… in short, lands that our president has referred to as “shithole countries.”
Two thoughts occurred to me. First, what should be obvious: While those three “tiers of travelers” might imply otherwise, all of us are human beings just the same, and all deserving of respect. Just like those of us in the first and second lines, the folks in the third line have places to go that are every bit as important as where we’re going; they get just as impatient waiting in a long line; they’re dealing with the very same sore backs, swollen feet, twisted intestines, and backed-up flatulence after a long flight.
And second, while the above “should be” obvious, our society is preoccupied with reassuring us of exactly the opposite: There are “good” places, there are “great” places, and there are “bad” places.
In America — a land that, to many, is synonymous with exceptionalism — we suffer from a persistent and feisty narcissism. I grew up being constantly reminded that I was born into the “greatest country on earth,” that we were the “leader of the free world,” and so on.
Now, as our new president has put us on the outs with the rest of the family of nations, we Americans worry about how we’ll be received overseas. Will we be welcome abroad?
Sure… we’ve always been “welcome,” in the sense that most locals fall somewhere between agnostic and pleased that we’re there. That’s not changing, far as I can tell. But sometimes I think that when we fret about being “welcome,” what we really want is to be treated as “special.”
When we visit Europe, we’re already in the second-tier passport line…. glancing at that third line, terrified that that’s where we’re headed. Will we soon reach a point where our country of origin is cause for embarrassment rather than pride?
This would be far from unprecedented. Countries slide between these tiers constantly. I remember another layover, when I changed planes in Amsterdam, maybe six months or a year after Brexit went into effect. That passport checkpoint was a chaotic scrum, with many of us cutting it uncomfortably close for our connections. The security guard, surveying that “second tier” line, asked if anyone had EU passports. A few people, who’d gotten in the wrong line, waved their French, Portuguese, or Polish passports — and were whisked into the fast lane. Then a couple more hands shot up, and an English accent asked, hopefully, “What about the UK?”
The guard — a vicious smirk spreading across his face, as he completely failed to disguise his glee — explained: “Ah, but you are not in the EU anymore. Remember? Brexit?” As the two would-be-fast-laners hid away their passports and turned scarlet, the rest of us in line enjoyed a cathartic chuckle at their expense. Welcome to the second tier!
I suspect that deep down — perhaps even subconsciously — that’s what many of us Americans are worried about: Are we still “special”? Or might we be heading for that third passport line?
If we do make that slide… well, would that be such a horrible thing? Perhaps joining that line would inject our American narcissism with a dose of much-needed global empathy.
Many observers outside our borders have seen the election — and the re-election — of Donald Trump as a loss of innocence for America. When I talk to Europeans about our current state of affairs, rather than anger or resentment, mostly I sense a resigned disappointment. They love the USA. They’re pulling for us. And they were hoping that we’d be immune to this global trend of extremist, isolationist populism. They expect this from “other countries” — but not from us, the noble Americans who helped save them from the Nazis and the USSR. Seeing our current circumstances through their eyes is a wake-up call that complacency erodes democracy back home, and respect around the globe.
And so, if at some point you wind up spending an extra 30 minutes waiting to enter a foreign land, use that time to consider the role America plays on the world stage, and the responsibility each American voter has for the consequences of our elections — and in shaping the culture that influences those elections.
§ § §
I wrapped up my spring trip in Morocco. Here, as in Spain, I found the welcome very warm. And, as in Spain, people had their own personal concerns that trumped world events. In Tangier, Yassin was much more interested in showing me all the amazing details of St. Andrew’s Church — where the Lord’s Prayer is etched into the wall in Arabic — than in “talking politics.”
Later, on a road trip through the Moroccan countryside, my guide and I were pulled over for a routine traffic stop. Reviewing our papers and noticing my American passport, the policeman playfully asked, “Who did you vote for?” A little too eagerly, I answered: “Harris! Harris!”
Both the policeman and the guide gave me a funny look. After the policeman shrugged and waved us a cheerful goodbye, my guide explained, “Actually, that wasn’t the answer he was hoping for.”
I was perplexed. Here I am — in one of those countries my president would dismiss as a “shithole,” where Islam is deeply interwoven into everyday life — and yet this police officer… likes Trump?
My guide explained: During his first term, for complicated diplomatic reasons, Trump recognized the disputed territory of Western Sahara as part of Morocco. Therefore, Trump has a surprisingly strong thread of support in this country — one that, on paper, should find him abhorrent.
I guess this all goes to prove the old saying: All politics is local. For many of us Americans, the political landscape is frightening, and the future feels bleak. And yet, even if others are looking worriedly at what’s happening here, ultimately they have their own pet issues that complicate a simplistic, one-size-fits-all understanding of a place.
This trip has provided so many reminders of how, at the end of the day, people are just people. Each of us is a quirky, idiosyncratic, often internally inconsistent constellation of thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. The greatest joy of travel remains having those people-to-people interactions that confront your assumptions and tease out new colors, textures, and threads in your understanding of the tapestry of humanity.
Whether it’s the well-informed Spaniard who needs a lesson in “Elon Musk 101,” the too-easily-dismissed person in the next passport line, or the Moroccan cop who loves Trump, travel puts us, for a fleeting moment, in improbable proximity — to teach and learn from each other, and to be reminded of the wonderful weirdness of humanity.
If you’ve had a chance to travel to Europe in 2025, what has your experience been? Have you been to places where people are more eager to talk politics, or are you finding that it remains — for now — mainly a back-burner worry?
I’ve had similar experiences in Italy and Germany recently — people were warm and welcoming, and if politics came up, it felt more like a respectful exchange than an interrogation. It’s reassuring to see that personal connections still transcend national headlines.
Opposite or rather alternative experience. Four weeks in Spain. Northern and southern. Everyone agrees Trump is a monstrous horror. No convincing required.
My only question to you is: how much did you prompt people to give you the answers you wanted? Oh, and yes, I voted for Trump because the alternative was far worse. I’m not happy with him right now, but he’s still better than Harris.
I agree that most Europeans are semi-indifferent to the bullsh*t going on in the US, and are glad to have American tourists in their countries, spending money that props up their economy.
well, Trump-voter, you don’t like foreigners, either legal or illegal in your country, and your Fuhrer is doing his best to keep tourists with visas or esta out of the country, why do you think people from other country countries should be happy to see fat, ugly faces? just for the sake for their stinking dollars? well, these people have no dignity, if they are selling themselves for a handful or dollars. And American Trump-Voters should stay at home and help their beloved Fuhrer make Fourth Reich great again!
Get help for your TDS it consumes you apparently!!!!!!!
“The alternative (to Trump) was far worse”? Really?? Please explain. Thanks.
You’ll have to explain why Harris was far worse. Did she stage a coup attempt when she lost? Pander to antivaxxers and cause thousands of unnecessary deaths to COVID? Propose tax cuts for the wealthy and service cuts for the rest of us?
“Trump Derangement Syndrome,” the cult like support of a demonstrated incompetent, 34xfelon applies not to those who live in reality, but to those who continue to support Trump.
The alternative to Trump would have left us in a frightening situation economically, financially, politically and destroyed us as a nation. My opinion
We are traveling for 6 months in Europe and the UK. We started in Spain during Holy Week…everyone was so nice. Occasionally we would be asked about Trump…we tried not to engage but most people did have something negative to say about him…they didn’t understand why he would be elected again. That has been our experience. We are now in France….yesterday there was a demonstration in Strasbourg and there were very ugly things about Trump…again, things that we observed.
We visited Paris in late January early February and Great Britain in late March and people were friendlier than ever. Maybe the recent US elections offered them hope and change for their futures? Whatever the reason, this trip was the most “pro American” since my first trip to Europe in 1987.
of course they were so “ebullient” because they were looking forward to change for their future – higher tariffs on their goods and humiliation and denial of entry at CBP checkpoints (for those idiots who’d still want to go to the US). Great future, they must be ecstatic about it!
Spent a week in London in March. Had a great time. Bought a bunch of locals some beers at an old pub in London, and they were very nice. They knew I was American. Had a nice conversation.
have no illusion about it – you bought their beer, they pretened to be “nice”.
I hate Americans, but if you buy me Champagne I’d behave like your best mate! why? because I’d hope you buy me another one!
and the moment I realize no more bottles coming – I’d spit in your ugly american face.
I’d take you down so qyick you wouldn’t know what even happened!!!!!
you mean in a video game you are playing from your mom’s basement? I do believe it, no doubt – since you’ve been playing it for many years and can down even Jackie Chan or Chuck Norris!!!
Sad to read your multiple comments (and hateful attitude!), non-Chinese Dude. You responded to Dennis, deriding Europeans (like yourself?) who only tolerate Americans for their dollars: “well, these people have no dignity, if they are selling themselves for a handful or dollars.” Then you reply to TC and state: “I hate Americans, but if you buy me Champagne I’d behave like your best mate! why? because I’d hope you buy me another one! and the moment I realize no more bottles coming – I’d spit in your ugly american face.”
1. You contradict yourself, and
2. Sadly, you spew so much hate.
Not all Rick Steves readers agree with Cameron’s/Rick Steves’ occasional far-left pearl clutching. The sky is not falling, as even Cameron admits. Remember, conservatives *endured* 4 years under the Biden administration. But anyone who encourages burning cars or dealerships, interrupting dinners at restaurants, threatened violence against elected officials or judges – or even spitting in an American face – is out of line, pure and simple. I do not wish to spit in anyone’s face ever, and I never met a fellow Rick Steves traveler who did, either. We are united by our love of travel – regardless of race, color or creed – as it should be.
Regardless, I would hope everyone here can agree we do not want or need such bald-faced bigotry as you have expressed here. As my mother said, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”
I don’t wish to read about others’ political views here, and I expect no one wants to read about mine. Let’s get back to the civility that comes with a mutual interest: travel.
Note to Rick Steves staff: Perhaps your writers might leave the passive-aggressive references to US politics out of your articles. Rick Steves should only be concerned with promoting travel and the joy that comes from it. Leave the political undertones to other sites – we do not come to you for such – regardless of our places on the political spectrum. Whether on this site or on a Rick Steves tour, we should never descend to nor tolerate the vitriol expressed by non-Chinese dude. (PS. Does anyone find his screen name offensive? Just saying.)
It would be interesting to test this in Canada. They seem mad (of course I don’t blame them) with the tariffs & talk of the 51st state
And Canadians are usually so friendly & calm. I think they ARE paying more attention.
You are very welcome to visit Canada, just don’t ask us jokingly about the 51st state.
I don’t plan on ever visiting Canada again. I’ve read too much hatred from Canadians on social media. Also so much talk of how Canada is so much better than the US.
All are always welcome in Canada and American travellers are no exception despite the politics. But we are fiercely patriotic and won’t take your president’s bullying (po)lightly.
I was recently in Barcelona, SW France and Paris for 3 weeks. In Barcelona I was given reassurance that our country would come through this time and to not lose hope for our democracy. A Czech man sitting next to me at a Flamenco performance had the same message. They both had lived experience with their country under dictatorships, that came through to become a democracy. Take the long view.
In France I was treated warmly and politics did not tend to come up. If it did it was with concern for the US with no personal animosity towards me.
Politics only comes up with you, ridiculous!
Politics is inevitable in travel whether you like it or not. Unless you want to bury your head in the sand like the ostrich!!
I really didn’t expect a Rick Steves post to get so political. Disappointing.
I agree with you; I don’t read these posts to get a political lecture; please leave politics out of your blog! I read your blog for travel updates/information.
I’m curious as to what things you think would affect travel conditions. Natural disasters, sure, but what else if not politics?
If you think that politics shouldn’t be considered as a possible factor in traveling out of the U.S., you are deluding yourself. The United States has turned a corner in alienating our friendly (!) trading partners. This isn’t opinion, it’s fact, and all travelers should be aware of possible consequences. I found this post revealing and comforting, not “political”.
I have noticed this viewpoint in Rick’s comments as well. Reconsidering the thoughts of travel with Rick Steves groups if this is the common thread. Keep it neutral!
Totally agree, Diane. I was thinking about taking a RS tour, but I am reconsidering. I wonder how I’ll be treated by my fellow RS travelers.
I think you will find a group of kind, engaging people who have come together to learn and discover new countries and cultures. That has been my experience on several RS tours. We were all there to learn and experience something new and I found the group very respectful of other’s opinions.
I think Rick is being realistic. Politics CAN impact how we’re received and perceived.
Yes!
Stating the obvious isn’t political, per se. Everything I read on that post is verifiable on every news platform except the one or two that cater to one side only. If you can’t handle some gentle truth, that’s too bad.
But it is a topic many of us are wondering about as we contemplate our travel plans.
Like Trump or not, he has affected the global order.
But that WAS the topic!! I’ve been curious about this too! I thought this was very well written and totally open and honest
I agree completely!
Seriously? Do you read any of his posts or books? He wrote an entire book about travel as a political act.
Here, here!
I could not agree more. I am so sick of hearing about politics! Now I have to deal with it on my travel reads.
When I was studying abroad during the height of the war in Iraq, we would tell the locals that we were Canadian. I’m not sure we fooled anybody, or if they even would have cared. So there were other times when the U.S., if we didn’t get moved to another passport line (in your analogy), we were at least worrying about it.
The ultimate in American arrogance … thinking we have the right (because we are American) to lie and say we are Canadian when it suits us and to demand special treatment because we are American
Politics! Let’s just talk about travel.
100%
Good write up Cameron! We leave for Portugal and France in 10 days and look forward to conversations with local residents!
I very much appreciate this post. I am bringing a group of 14 to Italy next week and another to Paris in the fall. This topic concerns us. I watched your webinar on inauguration night. It was so helpful! The main takeaway is to be respectful and prepared. Thank you!
I’m a bit more circumspect in my political prognostications after commenting to an inquiring Englishman in Spain “oh, (insert candidate’s name here) has no chance.” I was wrong. Does it matter which election? I’ll probably be wrong again!
I spent a week in London in April and had no negative interactions nor did I see any anti-American graffiti which was everywhere when I spent time in Italy in 2000.
I appreciate the fact that Rick takes the politician situation into consideration with what he writes. It is reality. Not very pleasant, as such, but simply part of the reality that confronts us daily and especially in travel. Thanks, Rick!
Please, don’t disappoint me any more, Rick! I have all your books and follow your wonderful guides and tips, but I do NOT want your political views! Maybe at least half of your readers do not agree with you and are proud to be American, no matter what! Please stop!
I’m sorry that you didn’t notice that this blog post was not written by Rick. However, the author is also likely as proud to be American as you are. It’s totally fair that he had a concern about how new U.S. policies were affecting the places where Americans travel, and how the people in those countries might perceive American travelers. This is something that could affect any traveler’s experience — a legitimate concern to explore in this travel blog. His post is based on facts, and it was thoughtfully written. It wasn’t intended to antagonize readers, but rather to inform us.
First, this was not written by Rick, but by Cameron Hewitt. Second, it is no secret that Rick is very respectful of his audience. However, it’s also no secret that Rick supports democratic causes. Third, unless you live in a different planet, policies of the Trump administration have affected travel. So, to keep politics out of travel is pure aberration!
It was obvious from the title of the article that it might touch on politics so if you don’t want to read about politics you should really not read articles that may address them. Maybe at least half of the readers want to know how we will be received now that we have a president who is changing our countries approach to how we are going to treat other countries. You can be proud to be an American and not agree with the views of the current president that is what America is all about in case you forgot.
Assessing how America is viewed abroad is one thing, interjecting one’s own surprise at the result is revealing of a bias.
Diane, you nailed it.
Amen!
We were in Cape Town South Africa in January during the inauguration. Only the brits were anxious to quiz us on the politics unfolding in the US. The South Africans were eager to discuss their own journey. If you have not been to Cape Town, Go! Delightful people, beautiful place all around.
We leave for Europe in a week and this is good to hear. I was nervous that there would be some animosity towards visitors from the States. I’m trying to stay aware of news from the local areas we will visit so I can discuss issues that concern people we meet if the opportunity presents itself. It isn’t always about us.
I very much appreciate you being willing to tackle this sensitive topic. I have friends who booked a trip last year to Europe in the fall. They have since canceled that trip because they’re too embarrassed to face either pity or dislike in the people they will encounter while there.
It’s a fluid situation and difficult to predict how things will go as the month pass by. As much as I would love to go over one more time, I don’t see it happening. I’m also embarrassed by the obvious turn toward cruelty and corruption our country has taken.
Embarrassed, of this wonderful country we have the privilege of living in. Give me a break, leaders come and go, sometimes we like it sometimes we don’t. Enjoy your life go back to Europe!
Rick, Cameron, et al; please leave the political commentary out of this and stick to what you do best which is produce exceptional travel writing and media content. I’m a decades long fan but am truly sick and tired of your relentless Trump bashing and propagation of the fantasy that he and Musk are the second coming of the third reich. Get over yourselves.
Greg, the truth is not pleasant! Are you happy that the Canadians are boycotting coming to vacation in the US?
Who cares, just relax. Leaders come and go, America is still a wonderful, free melting pot to enjoy.
Agreed!
Wonderful trip report, thank you! We had 10 days in Greece in March, mostly in Crete (with few other tourists around, yay!). Our guides appreciated and sympathized when we said up front: we hate what is happening in our country. But they didn’t talk politics unless we brought it up. At the end of a long gorge hike, 2 older folks were sitting in lawn chairs, waiting for hikers who might want a ride. In broken English the older woman said: “And what to do you thing of T” I told her what I think and she heartily agreed. So even in a fairly remote area, locals were aware of what is happening in the US. And our guide in Athens said: we remember what the dictatorship was like. That was eye opening to me.
I don’t appreciate the focus of this column. Totally left wing nonsense. So, this writer prefers Harris…. the most unqualified nitwit that ever ran for president. Ridiculous. Focus on travel….not your political rants. I’m afraid that most Rick Steves writers/editors are all in the same camp.
I wholeheartedly agree, the author’s bias has no place in the ‘assessment ‘ of perception of America abroad.
Agreed!
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! My husband and I are going to Europe this year and this very topic has come up as an area of possible concern. It is 2025, and we live in a global economy. Decisions made in the U.S. don’t just affect us. It’s absolutely reasonable to expect to (or at the very least ponder the possibility of having to) navigate difficult conversations with those in other countries negatively affected by some current decisions made by U.S. leaders Of course this is true regardless of whether you agree or disagree with those decisions….not a partisan issue.
Right on Cameron! Interacting with others when you are in another country is part of the travel experience. In my opinion some of the comments on this forum criticizing you because you brought up politics is naive. Hopefully if the folks who made them were to travel a bit more, they would understand why you brought it up.
Just read over some of the most recent posts…You do realize don’t you that Cameron Hewitt wrote this blog and not Rick Steves??
And would it make a difference anyway? Because he’s talking about the current political situation. Americans like to think that politics don’t matter. But they do matter and it doesn’t make a difference who you voted for because we all have to live with the consequences.
Loved the post, Cameron! My daughter and I have been planning a trip to France and were curious regarding how Americans might be viewed in Europe. Trip now delayed due to economic uncertainty, but I appreciate knowing something about the general response to folks from US.
Thanks to you and all who responded regarding their travel experiences this year.
We were in Basque Country this past March and at least three Spaniards initiated a conversation regarding our current President (they were not fans) and asked our opinions of him. However, as Americans, we encountered no negative treatment during the entire week in Bilbao and San Sebastián.
I love all the implications – the US is headed for autocracy, we have a dictator for a President, our President is on par with dictators of the past, our innocence as a country has been lost, that somehow left-leaning people like Cameron are virtuous while those who see the world differently can’t be… This is the second Rick Steves associated article I’ve seen in the last month or two that has been completely political. And it’s been super disappointing. If American politics had an effect on what we might expect in our travels then simply tell us. I don’t need you to tell me why, I’m not ignorant. But the fact is, American politics is not having an effect, you’ve said so yourself. So just tell people if they’re worried that it might, they should rest easy!
So disappointed in the Rick Steves brand hat seems to be straying from ” just the facts’ Ma’am!
You clearly have never lived in a dictatorship. You can still freely traverse this wonderful, beautiful melting pot. Who cares if the leader sucks for 4 years. The next 4 will hopefully be better. Don’t let it ruin your fun and enjoyment of travel in your life.
Cannot comment on Europe but was in Australia recently & my experience with Americans (I’m Canadian) was they were apologetic & almost sheepish over what was happening between our neighboring countries. However, a fellow Canadian experienced a lecture on why we should become a state of USA. My daughter & son-in-law were hiking in UK recently with flags on their backpacks & were asked by locals if they really were Canadian or just pretending. I’ve loved meeting & learning about people all over the world including Americans. Great article.
We were in Berlin and Lisbon in February. In Berlin our Uber drivers were eager to discuss Trump and for the most part were not fans . In Lisbon there was very little discussion about him or American politics in general.
Thank you for the article. This topic was foremost on my mind and why I cancelled a RS tour I had scheduled this year. The chaos could spill over into entering and departing countries as well as the Putin menance in the East. I prefer to stay well informed and then assess risk. Appreciate the areas you discussed.
Over the years, I have enjoyed your writing – almost as good as Rick.
It appears you have more of a problem with our new President than most Europeans. Obviously, you suffer from a severe case of TDS. You should get professional help, otherwise the next four years are going to suck for you.
I’ve been to Portugal, England, and Iceland so far this year. Politics were rarely discussed.
I’m a registered Independent. Based on the two choices last election:
Trump = strength and common sense.
Harris = weakness and nonsense.
The left needs better candidates! I will take team Trump/Musk over team Harris/Soros any day.
Keep on traveling.
I refuse to apologize to any European or Canadian. I’m proud to be an American.
Love this comment!
I did not view this article as political but rather as informative. We, as Canadians, will be travelling in England and Europe this coming September and will be wearing our Canadian flag pins proudly. And please do not mention Canada becoming the 51st state. It’s not going to happen!
Lots of pearl-clutching, privilege & willful ignorance (or cruelty?) in some of these posts.
If we mistreat visitors to the U.S. (including those with valid visas) it’s reasonable to wonder how we might be treated by other countries.
Last summer, Rick Steves did a zoom broadcast after the second assassination attempt on Trump. He said he was a historian and compared Trump to Hitler. Then he said Trump must be “stopped at all costs.” It was dangerously close to a call for more political violence.
Months into Trump’s second term, Cameron uses this blog to fan the flames of partisanship and compares Trump to Franco.
Stick to travel advice. We do not read your website or books for political guidance.
No doubt you hate Britain’s Reform party (25%) and France’s National Party (35%) and Brotherhood of Italy (29%) and Alternative for Germany (25%) in spite of the fact these are growing in popularity. Open borders have allowed criminal gangs to flow into Europe as in the USA. The Lords of the EU are using Lawfare to cancel elections in Britain, politicians in France, and overturn election results in Romania. Do not pretend there are no problems in the EU.
There are good things happening in Europe and the USA as a result of countries returning to conservative principles. I’m very happy to see Germany step into a defense leadership role. Europe is taking a larger share of their defense costs and the costs of the Ukrainian war.
To anybody who thinks I should not share my political views on a travel advice site, I agree. But neither should Cameron or Rick. I used to enjoy coming here.
Tell it!
Politics is an essential part of our travel experience. We get to know others and how their system works and they get to ask in return. Since those in Europe have lived with fascism they have a unique perspective. Of course people who travel for a living should talk about the current situation.
And if you can’t see the problems in our country that is on you.
Well said!
In June 2024, a British man in York, England asked who I’d be voting for in the November 5th election. I told him Harris and he said he actually hopes Trump wins. I often wonder how he feels about it now.
I’m sorry, did all of the whiny people not read the title of the article? There’s a of content on this website that has nothing to do with politics. Why don’t you read that, if this article is so offensive. Most of you cry babies didn’t even pick up that the article wasn’t by Rick. Sheesh. We are traveling to England in two weeks and yes, I think it’s an honest question, how will we be seen. Given the reporting on the cancellations of people coming to the U.S., it seems like other folks in the world are getting political. Oh, right that’s fake news.
Thanks Terry
Totally agree. There is little better then sitting in a pub and discussing politics. How else do we get to know the people who live in the places we visit?
We’re near the end of another two-month stay in Lisboa where we stay in a non-touristy area. It’s our third year in an apartment owned/managed by a two-generation family. We are grateful to be able to talk with them about the political situations in both of our countries as, yes, politics often profoundly affect our livelihoods and our everyday lives. We have been warmly welcomed and have encountered no issues as people from the US. Our experience is that people in Lisboa are highly aware of what’s happening in the US – but are much more focused on the elections happening here on 18 May. We were witnesses at the 25 Abril “Parade of the People” here marking the 51st anniversary of the “Carnation Revolution” and the 50th anniversary of fair and democratic elections following the end of Salazar’s fascist rule. Like everyone else, I carried a red carnation.
We had a great talk with a book store owner in the Azores. The election results had just been posted. He was very concerned but said they got rid of their dictator, so could we.
Hilarious, how is someone a dictator when you are still free to traverse this wonderful country and yell your opinion from a mountain top and not be jailed. Give me a break. Just enjoy your life, it will change again in 4 years and everyone can complain about that situation.
Oh – and be prepared for the fact your US dollar is consistently loosing value against the Euro.
It was losing value long before the new president. The problem is the government as a whole is too wasteful. We have far too much debt.
For those who have commented about wishing Cameron would leave politics out of his “travel” blog, they should probably read Rick Steves “Travel As A Political Act” first published in 2009 and updated since. Politics and travel are totally interconnected, as is economics. Our own economy is going to take a hit from decreased international travel into our country. I appreciate Cameron and Rick’s collective perspectives as they have access to many more points of view than we, as individual travelers, do. Thank you Cameron.
I’ve been following Rick since his early “Back Door” guidebooks. As his company, and Rick, have grown and prospered more political commentary has infused the writing. But unlike many on Rick’s side of the political aisle, I won’t call for a boycott, stop purchasing merchandise, etc simply because I disagree with a viewpoint.
I didn’t appreciate Cameron’s political lecture but can look past that. Rick and his team offer excellent travel advice and I’ve looked to them for decades to help enrich my travel experiences.
A little less political commentary would be appreciated though. Otherwise it will be a long four years…
As I read the replies, it seems to me that they contain much more political content than the article itself.
I was very interested in the subject right now, as my husband and I are vacillating about whether to plan a trip to Europe during uncertain times.
Thank you for the information!
I really appreciate this very practical and thoughtful article. We’re excited about Barcelona and other ports on a Med cruise this December. We will want to continue to be aware of any “situations” that could arise, but, as seniors, we lost too many travel opportunities to COVID. I’m not going to lose another 4 years to politics. Thanks “Rick Steves” as always!
A very legitimate, well-considered post about a topic on many international travelers’ minds right now. We recently canceled a trip to the UK on these very concerns — just too much uncertainty on all aspects of travel at the moment, including how Americans will be treated, volatility of costs, re-entry issues. Relieved to hear most Europeans sympathize, but still plan to wait until things settle.
As to “politics,” Rick and Cameron have made no secret of their preferences in past presentations and writing. They are entitled to their opinions, as are all Americans. If you don’t agree with them or it bothers you that they take a stand, go somewhere else for your travel advice. It’s a free country…at least for now.
We truly do NOT appreciate your political slant of seeing America and Trump so badly. Presumably, you will be scratching Teslas next. To not understand a policeman’s support of Trump (someone who favors law over crime) and to openly admit you voted for Harris, a true Marxist, out to destroy America and it’s beacon of freedom, is more than distressing. You may be a world traveler, and offer good “travel” advice, but populating it with your own misguided and personal political opinions is NOT AT ALL WELCOME. You are supporting the destruction of the West. Shame on you Rick Steves. We are deleting you from our mailing list, and pray you will see the light.
It seems you have no problem with publishing your (misguided) personal political opinions in your post, so why can’t the author share his? As others have pointed out, politics are part of travel – they determine what places we visit, what opinions we have of places, and more – so telling travel writers to “stay out of politics” is stupid.
You may like what Trump is doing but you can’t argue that his actions are having an impact on the world’s opinion of the United States. To believe that everyone shares your extreme viewpoint of Trump and Harris is just plain ignorant.
I’d also argue that this article is less about the author sharing his political opinion and more about him sharing his experiences in traveling with his political stance. His point was not to argue politics but to give other travelers a sense of what they might encounter.
Oh Elizabeth S, your post is hilarious! Donald Trump, “favors law over crime”, Donald Trump the felon? That Donald Trump? The person who has told the Supreme Court, I’m not going to abide by your decisions? The person who made millions off the Federal Govt. by making people stay at his hotels, that Donald Trump? The person who told his staff not to reply to subpoenas from Congress, that Donald Trump? Destroying the West, the first thing he does is insult Canada?? That Donald Trump? Your last line says it all, you are praying for us. I can see you now in your Mom’s for Liberty t-shirt, holding a Bible in one hand and your AK-47 in the other. You can say what you want about Rick Steves but I guarantee he would stand up for my right to reply to your uninformed opinion with my disgusting response because he believes in the First Amendment to Free Speech
This is an extremely rude and racist comment. Quite a lot of judging going on, can you not see you are being played, they want us to all hate one another. Your bad because your different blah blah. We all seek the same goals and everyone on this blog comments loves the world and loves to travel. Just step back and take a breath, you’ll make it I promise.
I agree with Elizabeth S. but one point though – if you don’t travel abroad, please don’t read hereinbelow
however, if you – why? you don’t like and welcome foreigners, either legal or illegal, why do other nations have to love you? because of tariffs, because of nuclear weapons? well, you cannonn’t compel somebody to love by economic or military might, can you?
And for better or worse I live in the country which can wipe you out from the face of the Earth, and we will see ya’ll in Hell one day.
Rick, I read your post on Feb 22 when war started. You were writing you would be preventing people spending money in Russia.
Please please I beg – make good on your pledge and make so that all these 10,000 americans who are still in Russia (I don’t understand why) go back to the US . I am tired of seeing their ugly, fat, self-indulgent faces in our cafes, bars, restaurants and pedestrian areas. And we don’t need their dollars either. Let spend these dollars to help their Fuhrer Make Fourth Reich Great again.
What an silly thing to post. You elected a criminal. How does that make you one of the “law and order” crew.
FYI- this wasn’t written by RS. Yes the police tend to have a power complex, so of course he likes Trump.
Our experience has been that the politics of other countries is always a potential topic when traveling Europe. If engaged thoughtfully, it can be enlightening to get an outsider’s perspective. Back in May of 2016 my wife and I walked the Camino de Santiago, and we were often questioned by other perigrinos about the US presidential primaries. It was obvious they (especially Canadians) were following it much more closely than we were and there was much concern about Trump being elected. Likewise, we walked a lot with a British banker, who was often asked about Brexit. As it turned out, we and the banker assured people that Trump and Brexit didn’t stand a chance. I now cringe at how wrong we both were about our respective countries.
I was proud to be an American after Biden was elected in 2020 and I travelled to Europe on RS tours in 2022 and 2023 and 2024 knowing that Europeans would welcome me as usual. Likewise I was proud to be an American after Trump was elected in 2024 and I am now on a RS tour in France with no change in my welcome. I did not vote for Biden or Trump or Harris in any election. My question for Cameron is why did you not write about this issue after Biden became President? Of course I know the answer as do all others reading this thread. A hypocritical double standard is being applied here. Both Biden and Trump have many obvious failings but the RS focus is only on one side. As others have said, Rick and Cameron give great travel advice but should keep their political views out of the travel business.
Interesting… please explain why you can travel wherever you want, and I as a russian cannot? I know what you will say – it’s fault of my government. ok, fair enough maybe. but why I cannot travel to America, and Americans can still travel to Russia? Officially, over 10,000 American tourists, students, residence permit holders, etc are at this moment in Russia. What on Earth are they doing here? If it is such and evil and monstrous country according to your Narratives where FIFTEEN (OH MY GOD!!!!) AMERICANS HAVE BEEN “WRONGFULLY” DETAINED according to the Department of State, whereas (over 50,000 – FIFTY THOUSANDS RUSSIANS) are in american federal, state , ICE etc prisons, jails, camps – 10,000 times more (statistics is last years, when Russians could still travel). Are Russians 10,000 times more criminally-minded than Americans? Typical case of American hypocrisy – Russians are bad, we won’t let them in, but we demand evil Russia to let in our tourists, but we won’t let in any russians. Any explaination?
Everywhere we went in Italy, people engaged us about politics; it’s the first thing they wanted to know – why did we all vote for a guy who will literally pull America out of its place as the pillar of democracy, and the leader of the free world? It’s not like they don’t understand, they explained; they also have ignorant people in their country who don’t pay enough attention to how the world is intertwined. Italy itself is leaning rightward, and those that are politically aware are stressed about their own status. But they were all empathetic, and understood that even the biggest democracies can falter and start to fade, just as they did before WW2. It terrifies them how much power that hands over to Russia and China, which are always sniffing around their borders and neighboring countries. The EU as a unit is trying to uphold democracy, but it depends on a collection of disparate countries to all choose the right path, and it depends on allies (as we were) to make good decisions. We’ve just turned our back on our strongest allies, and it changes everything for everyone, and brings the fear of a world war back into their lifetime.
Interesting logic. America is not to blame. They behave in disgusting manner, your Fuhrer making Fourth Reich Great Again, but somehow Russia and China is to blame? Did evil Russian and Chinese hackers make 100 million Americans vote for Trump?
I don’t know why you have to be so political . Let us just be polite and enjoy traveling.
Ask your beloved Fuhrer why. He has answer for everything – from tariffs to your question, Mrs. Lynda. And why should you be enjoying traveling to other countries, when visitors (legal) from other countries cannot come to America. I think all Americans must stay at home and help their Beloved Fuhrer and Supreme leader Make the Fourth Reich Great Again. (since Americans don’t know history or geography, and can barely read or write their own language, a little explanation is warranted – 3rd Reich was the Nazi name of Germany in 1933 – 1945; Germany is a country in Europe. Nazis – German Nationalists.)
totally agree, we don’t need your opinion on politics : stay in your lane with travel information .
We have lanes to stay in now? The ugliness seems a bit one-sided here. Thank you Cameron for writing on a tough topic. Your insights encourage others. I appreciate critical thinking which is difficult to find, but I really appreciate bravery in a tough situation. I think we all know how to do the next right thing when we see it. So, let’s do it now in whatever country we find ourselves as Americans .
Dear Rick,
We saw you live in Portsmouth NH several years ago and you did not disappoint. In fact you exceeded all expectations. Thank you for all you do, sir. Friends of ours who periodically re-visit their old friends in Ireland and talk to them through the year, tell us how keenly aware their adopted Irish friends are regrading American politics. Their interest is based on many factors including their family members who live in the U.S., NATO security, notions like the take over of Greenland, and now the uncertainty of tariffs. Burying one’s head in the sand by denying the political aspects of travel (including within the U.S.) can only head to an uninformed traveler and a potentially stressful experience. If anyone has any doubts, just ask a European Cabbie.
Thank you so much for this helpful and timely information. We’re leaving for Slovenia and Croatia next week, and have been practicing our Canadian accents! Just kidding, but we are concerned about whether we’ll be treated differently in Europe this year. By the way, we planned our entire two-and-a-half-week trip using your outstanding Croatia & Slovenia travel guide. And we’ll each take only a carry-on suitcase and a small backpack, thanks to your great advice on packing light.
“Fascism in Europe” is an awesome show by Rick Steves. It’s political.
“Travel as a Political Act” by Rick Steves is a great book. As you might infer, it’s political.
what about Fascim in America?
Make Fourth Reich Great Again!
Cameron, you have friends in Europe and know a lot of people there as a result of your many years of traveling there, so I’m not sure you can compare the greetings and experiences you receive there with what a random American traveler might receive. For instance, I have heard that on June 15, there will be anti-tourist day protests in Europe. I actually can understand why they are doing that since so many of their beautiful cities are becoming, “over-touristed.” I know this isn’t the same as being unwelcome due to our ugly political situation, but it is still a reason to feel unwelcome.
What are your thoughts about this situation?
Americans as always prevail. they are God-chosen nation (could be true actually). they can exclude and humiliate visitors from other countries, but they expect special, welcoming treatment abroad. When an American is arrested abroad Departmen of Statement says that it is “wrongful” arrest, wherease thousands of foreigners thrown into ICE concentration camps- it’s okay. I am from Russia. Ok ok I know I know, please don’t tell me – we are a bad country with evil people and scary government, But why 10,000 Americans are still in the country as tourists. And they were not asked anything at the border – just let in. Whereas America suspended (without officially announcing) issuances of visa to Russians. So, I cannot go to America (well, I don’t want to, but thats another matter0, so, what are these americans doing in Russia? in a “bad evil” country. Let’s for example we all agree that it is bad and evil – why are they here then? Americans don;t care about foreigners – legal or illegal. they don’t need them. Ideal scenario for trump and 100 million who voted for him, is to stop all foreigners coming. what good do they serve in America? None. America society and economy would be so much better without foreigners.
in case you didn’t know, when you apply for a US visa, you must produce so called police certificate listing all felonies and misdeamenours. and even minor 30 years ago results in automatic denial. According to official FBI data about 70 million americans have a criminal record. That means that 1/3 of adults. and then also means, if the same standards are applied to americans, 1/3 of those who travel should be denied visa/entry – america is a free country full of felons.
I have been to the US several times, sent by my employers.my english is bad, i have very thick russian accent. I did my best to camouflag, mumbled, whispered and used short phrases which I got translated through iphone, or when i had to produce my passport ,and still got quite nasty glances. I hated every day I spent in that great country of yours (my employers compelled me to go there). Why should I get such treatment in your beloved ‘Murica, and at the same time Americans demanding to be treated like royalty abroad? I don’t get it. Americans, you don’t like foreigners? it’s perfectly fine, you live in “free country” (hahaha), but please don’t travel abroad, there are a lot of foreigners abroad and we don’t like you either. Stay at home, Americans, and help your beloved Fuehrer Make your Fourth Reich Great Again! HEIL HEIL HEIL
I have re-read Rick’s post. How could I have failed to notice it the first time! old Trope – the US and UK and France alone defeated Germany and Japan, with the USSR either fighting on the side of Germany or providing little to no assistance to the Allies. Of course. And after that some Americans are surprised that Russians hate them? well, after hearing such things and many similar ones, yes, I hate you, Americans.
After reading through these comments, I realize “land of the free” is not so easy when we don’t agree with our fellow citizens, is it? See where I am going with this? Many of us live in a bubble of commentary from those we agree with. Try getting out of your bubble for a while and it may become obvious that the so-called “bashing” is earned. We are headed to Italy in a few months. Not sure how Italians (religous and non-religious) feel about Pope Trump. This column was not political until snowflake readers felt the need to defend Pope Trump.
I was chatting with a local guide I’ve known for years — someone who’s highly intelligent and well-informed. I started talking about Elon Musk. She said: “Elon who?”
From her response, she’s not that smart.
Thank you for the timely article. Have been on the fence about EU travel for all the reasons you’ve listed.
I look forward to the opportunity to help their economies as their guest.
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In Italy and France, young people in particular are curious. One outspoken 50 something lady in England said after learning our dismay, “Your president is crazy!” :)
My husband and I recently traveled in Europe, from Bucharest to Budapest to Southern Spain and then to Amsterdam. Many of our hosts along the way inquired as to what we thought about what is going on in American politics. It always led to conversations about the difficulties they had endured in the past with wishes that we could get things adjusted in the US so that we did not face the hardships that come from a good sound democracy being destroyed and leaving the need to reclaim and rebuild it. Most were concerned and able to have lively and respectful discourse about how politics has impacted their past and how it might impact all of our futures. I found it refreshing not to be judged but to be engaged.
I just got back from Florence, after accidently taking a nose dive in a dark city garage where the ‘auto’ light didn’t come on . . . anyway, I’m mending but basically, a nightmare at age 70. . . I made sure to tell Italians that I am a devoted southern Democrat who has never and would never vote for Trump. Not sure they cared or even understood. Just be polite . . that goes a lot further than your political opinions.
So much hate from both sides on these blog comments. Know that everyone here loves travel and likely cares about the cultures we visit in these countries. Stop hating one another for different beliefs. We are not all that different. They want us divided and you people are playing into it.