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Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel
by
Rolf Potts
Vagabonding is about taking time off from your normal life - from six weeks to four months to two years - to discover and experience the world on your own terms. Veteran shoestring traveler Rolf Potts shows how anyone armed with an independent spirit can achieve the dream of extended overseas travel. Potts gives the necessary information on:
- financing your travel time
- d ...more
- financing your travel time
- d ...more
Paperback, 205 pages
Published
December 24th 2002
by Villard Books
(first published January 1st 2002)
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(showing 1-30)
I finished reading Vagabonding for the second time. The first time I read it was about four years ago, when I first started to experience serious wanderlust. It was inspiring and echoed the way I felt about traveling, but it wasn’t applicable yet. One Day, I mused, I will go on a long-term trip. One day, I will go “vagabonding.” It put the bug in my ear that long-term travel is possible.
But finishing it now, in the midst of an extended journey, is incredibly satisfying and comforting. It’s satis ...more
But finishing it now, in the midst of an extended journey, is incredibly satisfying and comforting. It’s satis ...more
I hit the road for 8 months--7 countries, 4 continents--because of this book.
College behind me, an ex-fiance, and a wad of cash in the bank (invested since I was a child)--that was when I discovered this book. I boarded the plane 5 months later.
I carried it with me the whole trip (it's very light). When I was feeling homesick or just sick, down, or in a rut I'd read a bit of this book and it would fire me up and give me ideas of what to do next.
Being on the road for an extended period of time ...more
College behind me, an ex-fiance, and a wad of cash in the bank (invested since I was a child)--that was when I discovered this book. I boarded the plane 5 months later.
I carried it with me the whole trip (it's very light). When I was feeling homesick or just sick, down, or in a rut I'd read a bit of this book and it would fire me up and give me ideas of what to do next.
Being on the road for an extended period of time ...more
Rolf Potts’ Vagabonding was recommended to me by a friend who apparently thinks I:
a) Need to get out of the house (and the city/state/country)
b) Enjoy books that heavily rely on quoting Walt Whitman’s “Song of the Open Road”
It’s not a bad book, certainly not the type I would pick up on my own, but there’s nothing really life-changing here either. Potts is conversational (almost to a fault), and he makes some fine points about living with less and accepting circumstances on the road for what they ...more
a) Need to get out of the house (and the city/state/country)
b) Enjoy books that heavily rely on quoting Walt Whitman’s “Song of the Open Road”
It’s not a bad book, certainly not the type I would pick up on my own, but there’s nothing really life-changing here either. Potts is conversational (almost to a fault), and he makes some fine points about living with less and accepting circumstances on the road for what they ...more
Rolf Potts gives a ton of good resources for how to travel long-term. This is not for the person who wants to take a week vacation in Cabo, but for someone who wants to hang out in a country or two or however many for a long time -- several weeks to several years. It's inspiring and helpful to know that I'm not the only one who wants to travel this way!
This is a short read that I intend to read over and over. Basically, it explains that you don't have to be in college or retired to experience long-distance travel. Hiking the Appalachian Trail or spending a year in Thailand is completely do-able for even 30 or 40-somethings. It's a reminder for me not to get caught up in the rat race and the sequence of school, job, marriage, kids, more job, 1 week vacations at a time, retirement, and then death. Although I take away a bit of inspiration and li
...more
Not a fast moving one but an amazing book. I think I will go back and read parts of it again. There are lots of things to like about the book.
First of all it provides a different view of life. I wish I had something like this in my twenties. I have a friend who spends about 6 months in a year traveling. I did not understand him. After reading this book, I can imagine why he does that.
A few snippets from the book:
First of all it provides a different view of life. I wish I had something like this in my twenties. I have a friend who spends about 6 months in a year traveling. I did not understand him. After reading this book, I can imagine why he does that.
A few snippets from the book:
Vagabonding involves taking an extended time-out from your normal life— six weeks...more
I found this book Strictly OK and I fail to understand the hype this book has generated so much so that it comes under "Top 10 books travel books".
Given that the author is well-travelled, there could have been a lot of meaningful things to be shared with the readers from his personal experiences. Unfortunately, all that the book contains is a whole bunch of website links and references to read. And an equal number of quotes from all kinds of travellers.
At best, this book can serve as a dictiona ...more
Given that the author is well-travelled, there could have been a lot of meaningful things to be shared with the readers from his personal experiences. Unfortunately, all that the book contains is a whole bunch of website links and references to read. And an equal number of quotes from all kinds of travellers.
At best, this book can serve as a dictiona ...more
As someone who lives a nomadic life, I found enriching what he has to say about long-term travel and living an alternative lifestyle.
He give some excellent, concrete ideas to those who want to travel but claim they can't afford to. He also helps us see how living a traveling life can be greatly rewarding. And also how "vagabonding" is really about being open to life.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"Vagabonding is about not merely reallotting a portion of your life for travel but rediscovering the en ...more
He give some excellent, concrete ideas to those who want to travel but claim they can't afford to. He also helps us see how living a traveling life can be greatly rewarding. And also how "vagabonding" is really about being open to life.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"Vagabonding is about not merely reallotting a portion of your life for travel but rediscovering the en ...more
XXXIII
How happy is the little stone
That rambles in the road alone,
And does n’t care about careers,
And exigencies never fears;
Whose coat of elemental brown
A passing universe put on;
And independent as the sun,
Associates or glows alone,
Fulfilling absolute decree
In casual simplicity.
-Emily Dickinson (1830–86).
Jan 16, 2008
Clackamas
rated it
really liked it
Recommends it for:
People who always wished they'd lived with the gypsies
Recommended to Clackamas by:
? Someone on Goodreads
***I keep trying to find a better book for the type of travel I plan, and haven't yet, so I re-read this one... I can't quite upgrade it though, even though part of me wants to. Originally read 1/2008***
This is a pretty simple book, designed for those who have never traveled but always wanted to. By "travel" I'm referring to long-term, low-budget travel. This is definitely not intended for the independently wealthy or those who don't know how to function without all of the conveniences of home. ...more
This is a pretty simple book, designed for those who have never traveled but always wanted to. By "travel" I'm referring to long-term, low-budget travel. This is definitely not intended for the independently wealthy or those who don't know how to function without all of the conveniences of home. ...more
"...deliberately not carrying a camera and sedulously avoiding the standard sights, the anti-tourist doesn't have much integrity or agenda beyond his self conscious decision to stand apart from other tourists."
That comes half way into a book that at first states that vagabonding is all about your personal lifestyle choices and not about contrasting with or criticizing other people's choices. I have read of at least 5 labels for travelers which RP stereo typically dismisses.
The book is filled to ...more
That comes half way into a book that at first states that vagabonding is all about your personal lifestyle choices and not about contrasting with or criticizing other people's choices. I have read of at least 5 labels for travelers which RP stereo typically dismisses.
The book is filled to ...more
Simplistic reading. Contains a lot of material I've seen reiterated before in other guidebooks; holds a lot of stuff which is well-covered elsewhere; yields a lot of info which should already be common-sense to the experienced (or even mildly-experienced) traveler...so, I confess I'm merely going to skim this thing.
Listen--in my experience--if you have an opportunity to travel; just do it and don't worry all that much about pre-planning or logistics.
Seriously. Don't ever worry yourself too much ...more
Listen--in my experience--if you have an opportunity to travel; just do it and don't worry all that much about pre-planning or logistics.
Seriously. Don't ever worry yourself too much ...more
Why I Read this Book: Travel and exploration is an essential part of the development of a successful and fulfilled life. Rolf provides an awesome and inspirational guide.
Review:
All I can think of is travel right now. Not just travel, but moreso exploring, adventure and discovery. Where will my next adventure be? I have that excited feeling right now that only the best possibilities bring us. You know, that one we used to all feel the night before Christmas? Something like that, but for adults. M ...more
Review:
All I can think of is travel right now. Not just travel, but moreso exploring, adventure and discovery. Where will my next adventure be? I have that excited feeling right now that only the best possibilities bring us. You know, that one we used to all feel the night before Christmas? Something like that, but for adults. M ...more
Pure sophistry. Included in this work are maybe two or three genuinely handy bits of advice, mainly found in links to external readings and resources. The rest of these 203 pages are filled with bland bits of armchair philosophy and anecdotes from dozens of other people who are not collecting checks for writing this book.
Perhaps it would not have been so very disappointing to me if I hadn't shelled out the ridiculously overpriced $10 expecting to receive some concrete advice on exactly how to tr ...more
Perhaps it would not have been so very disappointing to me if I hadn't shelled out the ridiculously overpriced $10 expecting to receive some concrete advice on exactly how to tr ...more
So I didn't exactly expect this one to actually be a GUIDE. I thought it was going to be a novel of some sort.
Having already done my fair share of journeys across the US of A and a few other places, I didn't really take much from this book. Most of my time reading this book was like this: "Yes, I already know that *turns page* Yes, I already know that, duh *turns page* Oh, nice inspirational quote *turns page* Already know that" and so on. I'm not bashing this book by any means, I'm just saying ...more
Having already done my fair share of journeys across the US of A and a few other places, I didn't really take much from this book. Most of my time reading this book was like this: "Yes, I already know that *turns page* Yes, I already know that, duh *turns page* Oh, nice inspirational quote *turns page* Already know that" and so on. I'm not bashing this book by any means, I'm just saying ...more
If you have already gone on open-ended adventures into the world, the first two-thirds (or more) of this book are a bore. Not until I got to the end did I start to enjoy and appreciate it. If you haven't had the opportunity to travel freely then this is a well-grounded book full of lots of great advice. Highlights (for anyone) include; good quotes, interesting excerpts from other travel writers, and tons and tons of resources, links, and other channels for research and planning.
This book was phennomal, it is one of the best books Ive read in a while! It inspired me to travel the world more and not be so worried about life and money. It made me realize that if one of your passions is traveling, than just start taveling. All you need is a backpack to travel! It gave some really great tips on travleing! One of my hobbies is traveling so I really enjoyed this book! This book was really well written and included some great inforamtion! I recommand this book to who ever like
...more
Have an itch to quit your job pack a bag and wander the planet for a few years? This handy guide will make that itch that much worse. I miss traveling.
I read bits of this book before my recent six-month adventure in India, then during that trip, and just now finished it a few months after coming home.
Primarily, this book was a revelation that other people out there view travel as intrinsically valuable to one's life education and spiritual growth, as I do. After having my wanderlust written off as a form of indulgent escapism by some or just simply a bewildering need by others, copying down quote after quote from this book was highly gratifyi ...more
Primarily, this book was a revelation that other people out there view travel as intrinsically valuable to one's life education and spiritual growth, as I do. After having my wanderlust written off as a form of indulgent escapism by some or just simply a bewildering need by others, copying down quote after quote from this book was highly gratifyi ...more
part philosophical view on how a journey, exploration or life should be prepared for, live, enjoyed and reflected upon,
part how-to guide for would-be vagabonders
perfect blend of idealism and practicality and none of the rarified mysticism I feared and had associated with the idea of 'dropping out to travel the world and find yourself'
touches on stoicism ,asceticism, mindfulness, cultural awareness, readiness, willingness to to take chances...
each section includes extensive notes on online resou ...more
part how-to guide for would-be vagabonders
perfect blend of idealism and practicality and none of the rarified mysticism I feared and had associated with the idea of 'dropping out to travel the world and find yourself'
touches on stoicism ,asceticism, mindfulness, cultural awareness, readiness, willingness to to take chances...
each section includes extensive notes on online resou ...more
Although I do admire Rolf Potts, I think that the advice written in this book is less practical information and more spiritual inspiration. Most of what he writes are things to motivate the reader, to show that a vagabonding lifestyle is desirable and possible.
Unfortunately, Rolf Potts gives very little specific, actionable advice. Some of the things that he writes are very true, but they are also incredibly general, such as 'be gracious', 'simplify your life by getting rid of excess material th ...more
Unfortunately, Rolf Potts gives very little specific, actionable advice. Some of the things that he writes are very true, but they are also incredibly general, such as 'be gracious', 'simplify your life by getting rid of excess material th ...more
I'm surprised by the rather scathing remarks here. They all seem to have in common the expectation this this will either be 1) a checklist or 2) a reinforcement of their personal travel identity (or lack thereof).
So, perhaps, you should pick up this book with the expectation of learning a mindset and exploring the paradigm of someone with extensive experience in a subject, not "Travel for Dummies."
As someone with no longterm residence, I found Rolf's exploration valuable and fulfilling. Perhaps ...more
So, perhaps, you should pick up this book with the expectation of learning a mindset and exploring the paradigm of someone with extensive experience in a subject, not "Travel for Dummies."
As someone with no longterm residence, I found Rolf's exploration valuable and fulfilling. Perhaps ...more
This talks about the mindset and philosophy of someone who feels more comfortable on the road than anywhere else. He has explored many places and many options and lists a good number of resources to use as you travel. It helped put me in the right mindset as I set off for my trip, but didn't teach me much I wasn't already aware of. He writes in a straightforward manner, much like you would see in any travel blog.
I was most appreciative of his selective quotes. "Adventurous men enjoy shipwrecks, ...more
I was most appreciative of his selective quotes. "Adventurous men enjoy shipwrecks, ...more
Even a bad book has something in it that we can learn from and this isn’t a bad book but it’s misguided. First off one third to half of it is internet sites that you could find yourself if you have a pulse and the other bit is constant quotes from other notable writers that I guess is supposed to set the mindset for the potential vagabond.
I've done a bit of traveling myself, I left my native country for another completely different culture a dozen years ago and I’m a professional guide in Israel ...more
I've done a bit of traveling myself, I left my native country for another completely different culture a dozen years ago and I’m a professional guide in Israel ...more
A good book. It gave me lots of concrete ideas for my traveling – even though many parts of the text can feel familiar for a traveler with some experience who has already read some other travel guides and searched information online.
I'd recommend this book for anyone who's planning long trips abroad, but I only gave it three stars. First of all, the book is very short and if you'd skip all the (somewhat dated) website links and ignore the numerous quotes and biographies and travel experiences fr ...more
I'd recommend this book for anyone who's planning long trips abroad, but I only gave it three stars. First of all, the book is very short and if you'd skip all the (somewhat dated) website links and ignore the numerous quotes and biographies and travel experiences fr ...more
I can sum up my review with the following quote:
"Interestingly one of the initial impediments to open mindedness is not ignorance but ideology. This is especially true in America where a particularly in progressive circles we have politicized open mindedness to the point that it isn't so open minded anymore. Indeed regardless of whether your sympathies lean to the left or the right, you're not going to learn anything new if continue to use politics as a lens thru which to view the world....on t ...more
"Interestingly one of the initial impediments to open mindedness is not ignorance but ideology. This is especially true in America where a particularly in progressive circles we have politicized open mindedness to the point that it isn't so open minded anymore. Indeed regardless of whether your sympathies lean to the left or the right, you're not going to learn anything new if continue to use politics as a lens thru which to view the world....on t ...more
Jul 22, 2008
Christopher Cordry
rated it
really liked it
Recommends it for:
neophytes, not acolytes, of the cult of travel
Shelves:
top-shelf
Everything in this book is old news to anyone who has already undertaken "long-term world travel." However, its basic premise is sound, and it would serve as a good wake-up call for those who have previously limited their travel experiences to the safety, comfort, and ease of--for lack of a better word, tourism, or rather the petty-bourgeois approach to travel.
If I sound like a travel snob, it's because I am. Sorry, no apologies.
Potts's core message is this: get off your duff, forget your lugga ...more
If I sound like a travel snob, it's because I am. Sorry, no apologies.
Potts's core message is this: get off your duff, forget your lugga ...more
The reason this book has received a number of bad reviews is because people fail to understand this is a philosophy book on travel.
To be fair, it's not like the cover really makes that clear.
The other reason this book has received several bad reviews is because many people sincerely want to travel, but they have it fixed in their mind that they are unable to do so. They read books such as this one looking for a magical bullet, and they become frustrated when they don't find one.
I know these pe ...more
To be fair, it's not like the cover really makes that clear.
The other reason this book has received several bad reviews is because many people sincerely want to travel, but they have it fixed in their mind that they are unable to do so. They read books such as this one looking for a magical bullet, and they become frustrated when they don't find one.
I know these pe ...more
Well, he did say it was uncommon. Unfortunately, I didn't find anything that I would consider useful in his book, other than contempt for people who prefer leading standard lives with weekly vacations a year, just as every other vagabond.
In his enthusiasm to cover everything, I felt he covered nothing well enough, adding topics just to tick them off the list. For example, what I'm most interested in during my holiday is the work I can vote to get. Of course, the author address this in a chapter ...more
In his enthusiasm to cover everything, I felt he covered nothing well enough, adding topics just to tick them off the list. For example, what I'm most interested in during my holiday is the work I can vote to get. Of course, the author address this in a chapter ...more
Perfect companion on a solo dream-trip, albeit mine was a one week one! Basic in its narration and information, this is a book for those who want to travel on a long term adventure but hesitate to pack their bags and procrastinate by waiting for a sunny day. But I found it just as interesting and inspiring (and an easy read to boot) to inject just that extra bit of spunk and encouragement on a short trip. It felt like a little like a personal guide and a little like a friend saying "I'm with you
...more
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Rolf Potts has reported from more than sixty countries for the likes of National Geographic Traveler, the New York Times Magazine, Slate.com, Conde Nast Traveler, Outside, The Believer, The Guardian (U.K.), National Public Radio, and the Travel Channel. A veteran travel columnist for the likes of Salon.com and World Hum, his adventures have taken him across six continents, and include piloting a f
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“The value of your travels does not hinge on how many stamps you have in your passport when you get home -- and the slow nuanced experience of a single country is always better than the hurried, superficial experience of forty countries.”
—
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“Work is when you confront the problems you might otherwise be tempted to run away from”
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