There does seem to be a difference in the level of violence, gun deaths in the United States compared to, say, Western Europe. It's not just one country. There's something about the new world that makes some significant parts of it more violent. And then I feel that when you are absolutely independent and you don't need help from your neighbors, then also no one is needing your help. So then how do you feel that you are needful for your community? That may be the case when you have someone climb into a roof of a building and shooting people.
Travel writer Juan Pablo Villarino had visited 90 countries before making the trek to exotic Arlington, Virginia for this chat with Tyler. Amazingly enough, this recording marked his first trip to the mainland United States, which is now the 91st country in an ever-expanding list.
The world's best hitchhiker talks with Tyler about the joys of connecting with people, why it's so hard to avoid stereotypes (including of hitchhikers), how stamp collecting guides his trips, the darkest secrets of people he's gotten rides from, traveling and writing books with his wife, the cause of violence in the Americas, finding the emotional heart of a journey, where he's going next, and more.
Read a full transcript enhanced with helpful links.
Recorded May 4th, 2018 Other ways to connect