World Travel Day Special: Vagabonding with Rolf Potts, Life Lessons from one of the World’s Greatest Travelers

Armchair Explorer

“The best way to travel? Dare to be lonely, lost, and bored.” – Rolf Potts, author of Vagabonding

Today’s special episode is in honor of World Travel Day, which was set up by the United Nations over 50 years ago and is celebrated today, on September 27th, every year.

Here’s what they have to say about it …

Tourism as an instrument for peace

Tourism, often highlighted for its role in economic development, also plays a significant role in fostering peace. On a global level, where nations are interconnected and interdependent, Tourism, an industry made by people and for people, emerges as a compelling and dynamic force to defy stereotypes and challenge prejudices.

This sector can be perceived as the epitome of intercultural dialogue; it allows meeting the "other", learning about different cultures, hearing foreign languages, tasting exotic flavours, bonding with other human beings, and building tolerance. In essence, it is a mind-broadening educational and spiritual experience.

Our guest today is author Rolf Potts, whose book Vagabonding was one of the pioneering publications of independent travel and has become a legend on the backpacking, van life and digital nomadism scenes. He has inspired countless travelers to forgo expensive, overly planned travel in favor of affordable, spontaneous exploration. Plus, he has some incredible stories he’s collected over the years.

Highlights include:

• Taking a traditional fishing boat on a three-week journey down the Mekong River.
• Trekking through the jungle to visit remote tribes in Indonesia.
• Riding a bicycle across Myanmar.
• Finding out how to let go of expectations and open yourself to authentic experiences.
• Learning the subtle art of being bored, and why it’s important.
• Discovering how exploration enhances our experience of home.

CONNECT WITH ROLF

Follow Rolf on Instagram @rolfpotts, or visit his website at rolfpotts.com to find his books, articles, blog, videos, writing courses, and more. You can also find his newest book, The Vagabond’s Way: 366 Meditations on Wanderlust, Discover, and the Art of Travel at your local bookstore or online. There are so many interesting stories and reflections in there that we didn’t have time to cover, so we highly recommend you pick up a copy for yourself!

CONNECT WITH US

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Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast

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Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar presented the show and wrote it along with Jenny Allison. Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap.

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