Andrew McCarthy Believes Americans Are Afraid To Travel

Although Andrew McCarthy is best known for his work in such 80s classics as Pretty in Pink, St. Elmo’s Fire, and the cult comedy classic Weekend at Bernies, a lot of people don’t know that the actor has made quite the name for himself as a travel writer. During his recent appearance on Piers Morgan Tonight, McCarthy discussed everything from his time in the so-called “Brat Pack” to his adventures on the road. He also touched on a point that may shock many Americans, particularly those who travel on a regular basis.

According to CNN, Andrew McCarthy feels that Americans possess an inherent fear of traveling. “I think Americans don’t travel because they are afraid,” he explained during the interview. “I think America is a great country … but we’re a very fearful country. I think most of our political decisions are all based in fear. And I think if Americans traveled, they would see that the world is a much different place than they’re led to believe it is, and that they think it is, and we’re very insular.”

Travel writer by the name of Nomadic Matt seems to agree with Andrew McCarthy sentiments. In his October 2008 article “Why Americans Don’t Travel Overseas,” he discussed why would-be travelers from the United States are hesitant to set foot outside the country’s borders.

“Americans don’t travel because of culture, not location,” Matt wrote. “Sure, it’s not universal. There are plenty of Americans out there exploring the world and breaking down cultural barriers. They come back and dispell myths and encourage the world to get involved. But even in the more liberal places in America, you see this attitude that America is the world’s only safe country and that most of the world is pretty scary. Americans have an image of the world that is totally divorced from reality.”

If you’re curious to read Andrew McCarthy’s thoughts on life, work, and travel, you can pick up the actor-turned-author’s latest tome The Longest Way Home: One Man’s Quest for the Courage to Settle Down at bookstores right now.

Do you agree with Andrew McCarthy’s opinion that American’s are afraid to travel?