Rolf Potts on the spiritual side of travel

“Too often on the road, people seek the spiritual side of life in the same determined way they might join a gym: they want results, and they want them soon. Thus, the yoga camps of India, the meditation retreats of Thailand, and the evangelical group-tours of Galilee sell out (literally and figuratively) to vacationers in search of instant spiritual gratification. In reality, there is just as much epiphany to be had in wandering lost through the alleyways of Varanasi, enduring diarrhea on the Bangkok-to-Surat Thani minibus, or playing games with children in the Nazareth town square. Moreover, spirituality is an ongoing process that deepens with the seasons — and those who travel the world hoping to get “blinded by the light” are often blind to the light that’s all around them.”
–Rolf Potts, Vagabonding (2003)

Posted by | Comments (1)  | January 21, 2003
Category: Travel Quote of the Day


One Response to “Rolf Potts on the spiritual side of travel”

  1. john Thornton Says:

    Hi Rolf – you have done well since our 6 months at Dong E!! Congratulations!!

    Tell me though where I can get spiritual, with the least amount of government intervention (i.e. police type presence) and the maximum amout of dope? This would surely be a much anticipated article or series…..perhaps a working title of
    “Dopes through Asia”….’Hi, I’m Rolf. Let me be your guide to the greatest trips you’ll ever take…etc…etc. Just a thought – John…Take care, man.