How I Built This with Guy Raz Rick Steves' Europe: Rick Steves
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Mar 8, 2021 
Rick Steves, a renowned travel writer and television personality, begins by recounting his humble beginnings as a budget backpacker in Europe. He shares how his passion for affordable travel led to the creation of a multimillion-dollar brand, emphasizing authenticity over traditional business tactics. Steves also reflects on the challenges of producing a travel show and the impact of social media on travel writing. With insights on maintaining balance in life and advocating for social causes, he offers a humorous yet heartfelt perspective on his journey.
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First European Impressions
- Rick Steves' first trip to Europe at 14 was eye-opening.
- He observed Dutch workers with wooden shoes, highlighting the cultural differences.
Backpackers' Inspiration
- At 16, in a Copenhagen train station, Steves saw backpackers with interrail passes.
- This inspired him to travel Europe independently every year after high school.
Backpacking Challenges and Transformation
- Steves' first backpacking trip at 18 was challenging but transformative.
- Living on $2 a day, sneaking into museums, and eating bread and jam taught him valuable lessons.
