Publisher's Synopsis
Kosher travel expert, Stuart Katz, discusses his life experiences as a Panamanian American Israeli. The result is a fascinating book that is part travel guide, part autobiography and part mental health therapy. It is inspirational with a messages of self-development and adventure that is cross-cultural.
Born in Panama, Stuart Katz is the epitome of a global adventurer. With his infectious wit and insatiable wanderlust, he has become a prominent figure in the world of travel. Alongside his travels to over one hundred countries, he's become a vocal advocate for mental health - spreading education, advocacy, and acceptance wherever he goes. If you enjoyed this book, you might also enjoy Stuart's podcast, also called Travel Therapy, and available where podcasts are found.
Travel Therapy combines travel memoir with a mental health journey. It also includes the stories of Stuart's extensive travel as a volunteer assisting in crisis areas and his exploration of Jewish communities across the globe, as he works towards visiting 100 countries, all the while in search of how to heal himself. Witty, self-deprecating, and heartfelt, this is a must-read for anyone interested in travel, Judaism, and the lifelong journey towards psychological wellbeing."- Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, Rabbi, Author, Speaker, Television Host
In Travel Therapy, Stuart Katz takes us through his life journey, and how he, like all of us, is shaped by his upbringing and relationships with those closest to him. The stories of early childhood are sprinkled with earnest mirth and will bring a genuine smile to those who've been there. If this book were just about childhood, relationships, and faith, it would certainly be interesting but perhaps not of interest to as many. What makes this book stand out is just how profoundly Stuart's extensive travels throughout the world shape his worldview and impact his overall sense of self. Although his deep faith is resonant throughout the book, his views on so many 'certainties' change as he recognizes the aspirations of our fellow planetary travelers, and in so doing, recognizes his own yearning. We see that the best place on Earth is the Earth itself. The best people on Earth are the people themselves, and travel is the best way to kickstart a path to inevitable and healing growth."- Blaise Aguirre, MD, Harvard Medical School
