This article reveals the lesser-known history of the U.S. government’s influence on the travel industry and the creation of modern American travel guides by spies. It discusses the role of Eugene Fodor, the founder of a successful guide book series, who was a former officer for the Office of Strategic Services (predecessor to the CIA) and employed spies as “travel writers” to gather intelligence during the Cold War. The article also mentions the revelation of Fodor’s espionage activities during the Watergate Hearings. Another spy and guide book author mentioned is Temple Fielding, who focused on creature comforts rather than sights. The article concludes by highlighting the diverse range of contemporary travel guides and their evolution from their CIA roots.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spy travel guides created by CIA spies | Travel Industry influenced by spies turned writers | Guide books will have evolved to cater to various lifestyles and interests | The motivation was to gather intelligence and operate as spies |
| Eugene Fodor and Temple Fielding were CIA officers | Influence of CIA officers in the travel industry | The role of CIA officers in the travel industry may be more well-known | Gathering intelligence and using travel writing as a cover |
| Spy travel guides were a good cover for agents | Espionage linked to travel writing | Travel writing may not be as popular a cover for agents | The need for covert operations and gathering intelligence |
| Guides focused on comfort rather than sights | Shift in traveler’s priorities | Travelers may prioritize comfort, hotels, restaurants, and shopping over sightseeing | Catering to traveler’s desires for comfort and convenience |
| Guide books have evolved into different niches | Specialized travel guides catering to different interests | There will be an even wider range of specialized travel guides for specific interests | Catering to specific interests and needs of travelers |
| Travel guides provide intelligence about foreign lands | Guide books as sources of information about other countries | Guide books may still provide information, but the purpose will be less espionage-related | Helping travelers navigate and explore foreign lands |