Since 1973, Rick Steves has spent 100 days every year exploring Europe. Along with writing and researching a best-selling series of guidebooks, Rick produces a public television series (Rick Steves’ Europe), a public radio show (Travel with Rick Steves), a blog (on Facebook), and an app and podcast (Rick Steves Audio Europe); writes a nationally syndicated newspaper column; and organizes guided tours that take over 20,000 travelers to Europe annually. With the help of his hardworking staff of 100 at Rick Steves’ Europein Edmonds, Washington, just north of SeattleRick’s mission is to make European travel fun, affordable, and culturally enlightening for Americans.
Gene Openshaw has co-authored a dozen Rick Steves books, specializing in writing walks and tours of Europe’s cities, museums, and cultural sights. He also contributes to Rick’s public television series, produces tours forRick Steves Audio Europe, and is a regular guest on Rick's public radio show. Outside of the travel world, Gene has co-authoredThe Seattle Joke Book. As a composer, Gene has written a full-length opera calledMatter, a violin sonata, and dozens of songs. He lives near Seattle with his daughter, enjoys giving presentations on art and history, and roots for the Mariners in good times and bad.
