Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel

An exceptional book that serves as much more than a travel guide; it's a roadmap to living life more fully through the lens of extended travel. The author's insights and practical advice are invaluable, drawn from genuine experiences and a deep understanding of the joys and challenges of long-term travel. What makes this book stand out is its emphasis on the philosophy and mindset of travel, not just the logistics. It encourages readers to break free from conventional travel patterns and embrace the world with open arms and an open mind. The writing is engaging and relatable, making even the most exotic travel concepts seem attainable. This book is a treasure trove of tips, anecdotes, and wisdom, ideal for both seasoned travelers and those dreaming of their first big adventure. 'Vagabonding' doesn't just inspire you to travel; it inspires you to explore the world in a more meaningful and sustainable way. A delightful and enlightening read for anyone who believes in the transformative power of travel.

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. Nor is meant for the person who has a couple of weeks off of work and just wants to get out of town. There are plenty of other books for people interested in those types of travel.The author describes several different approaches to travel and refrains from passing judgment on any of them. He lays out the pros and cons of each style and lets you decide what's right for you. He provides dozens of resources and is continually adding to them on his website. Somehow, he passes on all of this information without making the book feel like a typical travel book.I took six months off after college and traveled around the U.S. with my then-toddler son. Sustained travel can be difficult even in this country. When my son graduates high school, I plan to try long-term international travel. This book was a great jumping off point for me. I was surprisingly impressed.

Not since reading the Jules Verne classic "Around the World in 80 Days" has my imagination been more fired up. I just completed a year of sabbatical of travel around the globe so I could easily act like this book is remedial, which is hardly the case.This book is an intellectual toolkit for any traveler. It not only lays out a dense amount of valuable and practical advice for many travel topics but it will also work out your mind from the easy chair of your living room.I have read Rolf's (the author) writings before and was excited to see he was writing a book. I love many travel writers but Rolf is the first to truly represent a younger and recent generation. To spite his youth he doesn't fall into the Gen-X trap of all cynicism and no substance instead his wit and style fall more into an updated Catcher in the Rye vibe.I recommend if you love his book, become a daily reader of his website, where he posts daily musings and travel quotes. What I strongly recommend against is paying attention to the crackpot that listed the stay at home parenting book as a counter choice to Vagabonding. Clearly this person didn't bother to read Rolf's book, because its clear message isn't about making a life choice of travel over family responsibility, if anything its message is about living your life to its fullest potential so you can experience a life without regret. Something tells me there would be many more happy relationships and families if more people knew more about the big planet out there and followed their unrealized dreams.Take the challenge and read this book.

Vagabonding in one of the best sabbatical books written. First, forget about the strange title, the book is much better. Forget about the word "vagabonding" and what is potentially means. The fact is that Potts deals with all potential issues of long-term travel. He lists tremendous resources, and offers down-to-earth advice through inspiring case studies. He asks the right questions about what you should do with your life. I just love this book, in particular its slightly philosophical touch enhanced by famous quotes while firmly being grounded in reality. Potts deals with how to behave while traveling, how to get the most out of it, and how to preserve the benefits when your return. His "tip sheets" on online and other resources are focused, helpful, and with a reason given why he selected them for you. I also liked his lists of spiritual readings and his tips for seniors and families. Overall, a densely packed book for anybody considering travel as part of their sabbatical, whether you have travel experience or not.

I think the book is very good for inspiring and giving some very broad tips, but I was hoping to find more specific how-tos. He keeps referring to ways to live on almost nothing, but never really spells it out. Instead, he just mentions people who have done it. Otherwise, though, it's a good inspirational book about vagabonding, and it's a quick read. But if you're looking for concrete "do this to survive in India on $5 a day" you won't find it here.