Learn to travel -- travel to learn: Robin Esrock at TEDxVancouver

Robin Esrock's success as a global adventurer, travel writer, TV producer and international TV personality was no accident, although it did start with one. Struck down on his bike at a Vancouver intersection, Robin hobbled away with a broken kneecap, and one year later, a modest $20,000 insurance settlement. It was just enough for him pack up his things, quit his job, and set off on a one-year solo round-the-world backpacking adventure to 24 countries. He named his journey Modern Gonzo, and committed to record his year of living dangerously, with online weekly reports, photography, videos, and interviews with every person he met. In doing so, he pioneered a new era of multi-platform, switched-on and wired-in travel journalism, leading to adventures beyond his wildest dreams.

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

[amadisdegaula]

I didn't have a lot of money and I have done 70 countries and lived in 9. One doesn't need a lot of money to travel. One needs a plan. Have many connections. And have skills to sell. The world exposes itself to us and we learn to go go go. I don't regret my life. Do I have many world possessions? No! But I have hundreds of friends in 7 continents and I speak several languages.

[redskinsfreak]

I've worked for the last year and saved up $20, 000. I'll be starting my travel in a month :)

[marioperez-pher]

I almost died at 23. I started traveling after healing. 28 now and 18 countries later I have friends all over and learned to love this world more. Stay blessed stay traveling.

[ucsbchui]

if people travel more, this world will have less conflicts and wars.... the reason why we fight is because we don't understand each other...

[fearlessandfar]

Love this Robin. So many great points. Your view on "Paradise", arming yourself with a smile etc. You inspire so many of us.

[janlouisejones]

I really love this video. It captures what I have been saying in my classes for years now. Can't wait to share it with my students. My students created a quote that sums up my philosophy which is "travel the world with an open mind and kind heart"... after watching this, I might add... with a smile on your face.

[GlobalAdventurer]

I'm traveling the world too. But, I'm retired (still in good shape mentally and physically) and kept my most important things in a small storage. Life is so simple without all the stuff and extra clutter. Living any other way makes you a slave to your stuff. No matter what you have you have to take care of it which means taking away your precious time for an animated object.

[Raajan_universe]

I'm 22 yr I'm gonna start my travel from my country( India) ....around the world. ....and ur speech ..which is motivating ....hope I'll start

[kirillkich]

When you travel make sure to open your mind and heart for adventures. Do unexpected decisions, explore unusual paths that you wouldn’t try in the comfort zones and most importantly: talk to strangers, make new friends and ask questions. Your memories, stories and experience found during those days form the body of your life.

[SarahDoddnomadicdreamer]

This is the best speech I have heard in SO long...amazing! There are more people that want to help you than hurt you---love it! 

[WorldwideTEAMUP]

I was really lucky to be approached for a business opportunity in the travel industry.. because of it, i've traveled and learned so much about the world but most importantly about myself... Love this talk, i felt and understood it with all my heart.
The world is a book and those that do not travel read only but one page... :)

[canelando]

This was a good speech! Love traveling and I believe, based on all of my traveling, the most important thing is your state of mind to deal with unknown. And I have to agree, the connection with people makes the place and travel an unbelievable experience.

[MrVinnyable]

I am so glad you got to experience and share these. I have travelled quite a bit, and totally feel you man. I am 18 and will travel more in my life :)

[kunalkumar]

these are the pople who show you reality instead of reality tv, thanks man

[HappierThanABillionaire]

I do not regret not traveling, because I do, and it is awesome. Kudos fellow traveler. Once we stop seeing new things, we start dying.

[temitopeoyeyemi]

I am 22 years and like seriously I just left AFRICA, I watched this video came at the right time, ROBIN words are soothing
thumbs up Sir

[harifoctavio]

had a hard time during the intro -- yet i absolutely agree with the ENTIRE concept of offering a smile to those with come in contact with and to never panic.  this has served me as "weapon" in more places than i can write about.  as a new york resident, i am prepared for the least imaginable challenge and more.  however, that smile robin talks about …  opens doors in the best of ways.  fabulous advice.  by the way, genuinly using the words: PLEASE and THANK YOU will never hurt.  proven!  :)

[taraclarke]

Robin you are 100% correct on all points.!!! “Don’t panic” is top of the list. Great talk.!! Thank

[TheZGALa]

Yes! Such perfect timing for me to hear this, as usual! I love life, and shaking up routine is definitely necessary to keep it fresh!

[remotedarren]

Great video Robin. I'm going on around the world trip soon i'm quitting my job of 24 years. I'm 41 and I'm sure I will learn a lot about myself while travelling.