People We Meet Staying in place with Practical Nomad Edward Hasbrouck

Edward Hasbrouck, a lifelong activist, experienced significant historical events during his 1989 world trip, including the Tiananmen Square massacre and the fall of the Berlin Wall. He transitioned from a non-traditional career to becoming a travel agent, viewing travel as an experience rather than a commodity. In 1997, he published "The Practical Nomad," a guide promoting longer, environmentally friendly journeys. Now, five years after the COVID-19 pandemic, Hasbrouck is cautious about air travel due to health risks associated with Long COVID and environmental impacts. Born in Massachusetts, he attributes his activist perspective to local town meetings that fostered community engagement.

Living in San Francisco's Mission district, he actively combats climate change and promotes youth activism. Hasbrouck also protests against selective service laws, recalling his conviction for failing to register in 1982. Despite facing numerous challenges in his activism, he remains resolute, stating, “It’s not a reason to stop being active now.