Customer Reviews

Two Laps Around the World: Tales and Insights from a Life Sabbatical

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

It's a fun and easy read - but this book is radical and I hope high schoolers, college students, blue collar workers, and white collar workers read it. The US and world would be better for it. Because it's more than an interesting and accessible travelogue of a young couple's adventures traveling around the world twice. It shows that world travel is not just for the rich and super rich. It brings forward the radical concept that regular people need to spend time away from life in these United States and experience people and places in other parts of the world. Take a break from the forward march of school and job? Yes! Read this book and see if that idea makes sense to you.

I found this book filled with fascinating cross-cultural insights. I learned how regular sabbaticals and change can lead to increased self-knowledge.

"Two Laps . . ." emphasizes the value and importance of travel to better understand a global society - particularly relevant these days. It's nice to learn that as people we have a lot of friends out there.

"Two Laps Around the World" is an entertaining read. I recommend it for any actual or armchair traveler interested in how we fit in the broader world.

Two Laps Around the World is much more than a travelogue. Granted there's great information on what to see and do, but much more as Bob and Lisa lead us to a deeper level in their global journeys. They seek to meet and talk to the people, to understand the culture, religions, and then reflect so beautifully on the differences--and sameness. They indeed challenge us to break out of the safe "tourist bubble." I enjoyed the Life Lessons and Global Rules noted throughout the book. This would be a great gift for any traveler. . .and a book to revisit often. .

Mary Jo Stouffer, Tucson AZ

An enjoyable and informative view of the vast cultural differences experienced on this around the world journey. A fun read that puts you along side Bob and Lisa as they share their stories of meeting other interesting travelers and natives from around the globe. A great way to see the world without leaving your couch.

In a world that is shrinking fast and when globalization effects all aspects of life, this is a gret look at a facinating way to take advantage of the time and technology available to grow personally by immersing yourself in travel and culture.

Great fun to read.

I read this book from back to back and am impressed at how easy a read it is. Not only does Mr. Riel recreate the scenes from his life, he provides great insight on the realities of traveling in off-the-beaten path countries. I highly recommend it for the independent traveler. 5 stars!

"Two Laps" is a great way to get ideas on what to do when visiting another country. I purchased the book just before my second trip to Istanbul and used it as a guide for friends as to what to see. Bob and Lisa always seem to hit the highlights as well as some interesting off the beaten path destinations. The insight they provide into the customs and cultures they visit is refreshing and informative.

An easy read, this book is a must for anyone who wants to learn the value of a "life sabbatical" or how to appreciate the simplicity, diversity and innate beauty in other cultures.