My route back to North America – after my recent change of plans – has been a long one. First, upon leaving Thailand, I had to make a stop in Bali and after a few interesting days there, I had to fly to Singapore. The reason for all of this bouncing around had nothing to do with some absurd flight route that was offered by some budget airline for some bargain basement fare. I actually needed to stop in Bali and Singapore before returning home.
So, after having spent the past week in Singapore, I am supposed to fly out tomorrow morning. My ticket is for a series of flights that will eventually land me in Cancun, Mexico, where I plan to spend a few days back in Playa del Carmen before finally returning to Florida.
However, it appears as if my journey back to North America is not going to be so easy as I just received an email notification that the first leg of my flight – Singapore to Tokyo – has been delayed. Not only has it been delayed but I will now almost certainly miss my connecting flight to Houston as a result. And not only will I miss my flight to Houston, but the only other available flight out of Tokyo tomorrow (on United or Continental) is a flight to Honolulu, from where there are no other available flights to the mainland for at least 36 hours.
So the point is, you may not hear from me for a long, long time. Or, I might become Hawaii’s newest resident and invite you all to a housewarming party next weekend.
Anyway, I must say that I found it quite interesting that as soon as I learned that my flight plans had begun to unravel, the first thought that entered my head was “I should write a post about this.” And then, as I began to write this post, starting off with a detailed account of my recent whereabouts, something else quite interesting occurred to me.
I spend much of my time writing about the places I’ve been, the places I currently am and the places I plan to be in the future, but I have no idea where most of you are right now. What kind of relationship is this?
Of course, many of you have your own blogs and so I do know the whereabouts of quite a few of you, however, I’d love to know where all of you are. I just think it’s time we get to know each other better.
I’m well aware that trying to keep track of everyone’s location on planet Earth is a near impossible task, especially considering that I can barely keep track of my own location (I inexplicably informed a friend last week that I was in Brunei instead of Bali), but I want to give it a try. I do believe that at least knowing this tiny bit of information will help strengthen our relationship. Don’t you?
So, to all of my readers, all of you whom I appreciate even more than my favorite Indian curries…let’s get it on.
Where are you in the world? Be as specific or vague as you wish…country, city, continent ….planet.
And keep an eye out for that invitation! I’m thinking the white sands of Hanauma Bay on Oahu would be a good place to get the party started.
Back in 1999, I left home for a 3 month trip to Asia that has still yet to end.
Hi Earl!
It sure is amazing to read about your travel experiences. Through you I get to travel a bit
Oh I am currently in New Delhi, India!
It i really is interesting to read about India on your blog. Brings in a fresh perspective to things that are usually considered routine by us, such as the driving and the trains.
Hope you have a safe trip.
Hey Nishtha – Welcome to the site! And just so you know, I love Delhi
On every visit to India I enjoy spending at least 1-2 weeks in that city!
Why do people like India so much? I have seen the videos of extreme poverty, and pollution there. It seems like it would be depressing.
Hey David – You need to go there and find out
Despite the poverty (which doesn’t automatically mean that people are unhappy – that’s just a western idea) and the pollution and chaos, there is no other country on the planet that gives you an opportunity to see, taste, smell, hear things every single day that you have never before experienced.
There are places in Mexico I would like to go to..but I hesitate because of danger. Not only crime, but disease that we don’t have here. I saw your outbreak of “Seafood Fever”, then the part where you were stricken with worms. I do hope you have recovered Earl. My interest is hot springs. Mexico has lots of them. I went to Mexico and had my teeth done. Los Algodones, and it was very good. Very reasonable price also. I could NEVER have afforded what I had done in the ‘States.The aggresive vendors there made me uneasy. I remember when I was in the USN and went to Olongapo City, Phillippines. Also- supporting myself while gone on my $1000 a month SS check. These are my fears. Thank you for your reply.
Hey David – Well, I’m in Mexico right now and loving it, along with the other several thousand people in Playa del Carmen
As for my seafood poisoning, that actually happens just about as often in Europe and the US as in India…it was a random thing that had nothing to do with the restaurant or how the fish was cooked. It’s actually quite common all over the world. And I think the more you get out there and travel, the more you’ll see that most of what we worry about proves to be nothing worth worrying about in the end!
Hi Earl!
My friend showed me your website two days ago and I have been on it all day every since! My friend Bridget and I want to travel just like you when we are done with college. Before I go to college I want to hike to Machu Picchu with National geogrpahic and once I’m in college my sister and I want to hike the appalachient trail. I have a lot of other plans like living in New Zeland for awhile but anyways, reading your blog has really made me want to go through with all of those plans. I live in Rochester New York and I really like reading about every where you have been!
Have fun!
Welcome to the site Ellie!! And I think it’s excellent that you’ve already come up with some travel ideas that you wish to accomplish. Just stay focused and you’ll get there. One look at a photo of Macchu Picchu or of a glacier in New Zealand every now and then should be enough to keep you motivated to achieve such goals! There’s nothing stopping you
Hey Earl!
I’m in Canton, Georgia it’s in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains, it’s a pretty small town. I stumbled upon your webpage a few days ago while looking for ways to afford traveling. I’ve always been interested in traveling, but the other day I had somewhat of an epiphany and decided before I settle down I want to be a nomad for quite some time. I’m about to get a standard two-year associates degree, and can’t decide if I would like to go to a university first, or begin my travels first. I don’t really have any money saved up but I’m also not in debt, So I can’t determine if traveling is a good idea. I’m not certified in teaching either,but I did read about your English classes you created at that university. I’m looking into things such as couchsurfing and tripping.com, and figured I could just fly to a country and walk from place to place, and take cheap forms of transportation. I mean we are human beings were meant to walk right? Plus it leaves extra time to think and take it all in. What do you think? I just want to experience the world for what it really is, not just what I see on t.v. or read about. Gain knowledge, maybe spread some of mine, along with some happiness and of course lend a helping hand to those in need along the way! Hope your having a great time in Romania, try and stay warm!
Hey Brian – Welcome and thank you for sharing your story! And I see nothing wrong at all with your plan. Traveling without a set itinerary is a great way to travel and if you’re in no rush, why not walk around and just see where the road leads. If you really want to experience the world first-hand, then there’s nothing stopping you from achieving that goal.
And the thing is, once you start, you never know where you’ll end up, so as long as you keep an open-mind and are flexible, your travels will almost certainly lead you to new opportunities that will take your life in a new, and rewarding, direction!
Hi! I just came across your blog through stumbleupon and I must say I find it very entertaining and most of all, inspiring! I have been all over America (almost all 50 states, with the exception of Alaska, where I will be visiting this summer, and Oregon and Washington) and I hope to travel more of the world. I have also been to London, Paris, and Aruba- pretty touristy destinations- and your blog has reinforced my desire to go into the back-country and experience more authentic culture. This coming winter break (I’m a college student) I hope to be in Thailand teaching English. Anyways, I am writing this from Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Hey Rebecca – Thanks for visiting and it seems like you have more of the US covered than most people! I certainly haven’t been to that many states myself. And that’s great that you’re thinking of a trip to Thailand over the winter break…that country is never a bad option at all
And 4 hours after discovery(stumbleupon of course)…i’m still on your site!
so thank you for your knowledge and for fueling my desire(even more)!
I’m writing this from Taunusstein Germany where i will be living and going to school for the next 6 months. Your site is; i’m sure you hear this all the time, inspiring!! All my life I have loved to travel and experience new places and cultures. After the school year I plan to go to Italy and Croatia and then head back to Idaho for Junior year of high school! Then off on my next adventure: teaching soccer in Ghana for 6 weeks! My goal in life is to not only visit, but spend quality time in every country in the world. Everyone says I am crazy but your blog and all the fantastic tips in it along with my determination, it will happen
Welcome to the site Kathryn! That’s quite a lot of traveling and overseas experiences you have lined up and yes, it will happen if you’re determined to achieve your goals…and don’t worry about being labeled ‘crazy’. Every long term traveler has been labeled that (or worse) at some point, but we keep on going anyway
Hi Earl!
I found your blog on stumbleupon this evening and can’t help but keep reading. I’m 25 and have been to 30 countries. About two years ago I decided I was “stuck” at home (Michigan, USA). After a bit of research and a visa application, I bought a one way ticket to Australia. Only then did I tell all my loved ones I was leaving. I’ve been living in Sydney for a year and a half now and truly believe this is where my home was always meant to be. It just takes that one big scary step. Thank you for sharing your stories and encouraging your readers to share their stories in the comments. If you ever need a place to stay in Sydney, you’re welcome here.
Hey Melanie – Thank you for the invitation
I love how people mention that first, scary step being the most difficult part of achieving one’s travel goals. I will forever believe that as well because, if we really want to travel, things always seem to fall into place once that first step is taken. Sure, it might take some hard work and a few moments of uncertainty, but it doesn’t take long to realize that our crazy travel goals really aren’t so crazy after all!
Hey! I found your website linked to some other travel blogs I read. It’s been interesting to read about your cruise ship experiences… I’m heading out to work on private Yachts this spring!
Ps. I’m in Calgary, Alberta, Canada!
Hey Dana – Welcome! And I think the private yacht idea is a great one…I’ve met many people who have done the same thing and they have all loved the experience. It’s not a bad way to travel/work/network/enjoy life!
Hey Earl, I am a sophmore college student hoping to be able to live the life youre living one day. I attend The Ohio State University and after I graduate I plan on puting the diploma in the back seat and traveling all over. My friends and family think Im nuts but I think its just fear.. fear of something more out there that most don’t want to dive into. As for me, I like reading blogs like this so I can be better prepared when I do start my never ending journey. Have a great day!
Hey Catherine – It’s great to hear from you and I would tend to agree about your family and friends’ reactions. It’s difficult for people to envision a lifestyle that doesn’t fit the normal pattern and as we all know, we tend to fear what we aren’t familiar with. But my guess is that once you get out there and start traveling, once they see how happy you are achieving your goals and that you are able to survive out there in the world, they will come around and begin to offer their support…that’s what happened with me
Hi, Earl! A friend of mine told me about your blog a few days ago, so I’ve just read some of your entries and I have to tell you that I think its amazing what you’re doing and your lifestyle is starting to inspire me.
I’m going back to Mexico on August, and I want to start learning portuguese because next summer I want to go to Brazil to teach english or spanish. My parents are supporting me with all of this, but they keep telling me that I should concentrate more on my career, not only them, also my friends. Sometimes I think they’re right, sometimes I think that I should do what makes me happy, that is, traveling, and learning languages, but whenever I think about doing it, I feel really scare and think “No, that’s crazy, I should stick to the ‘plan’” (graduate, work on what I study, stay in Mexico…) but that sounds boring haha, I’m going to graduate but I don’t think I’m going to end up doing what I’ve been studying for. I bet that you had that same fear when you started traveling, how did you overcome that fear?
Have a nice day! and Thank you!
My name is Italia, I’m from Irapuato, México, I go to university in Guadalajara, Jalisco, but right now I’m doing my semester abroad in Florence, Italy. I’m studying third year of Digital Art and Animation, but I’ve been having a lot of doubts about it, I’m not sure if that’s what I want to do anymore.
Last summer I had the opportunity to spend 3 months in Orlando where I worked at Walt Disney World. While I was there, I realized that I love meeting people from all around the world because when I talk to them it’s like I’m visiting that country, I found fascinating that, while I was there, thanks to the international environment, I was able to speak spanish, english and french in just one day, so I realized that I didn’t want to spend the rest of my life in front of a computer (Even though I find 3D animation really fun). So, when I went back to Mexico, I started to plan my semester abroad in Italy, this is my first time in Europe so it’s a whole new experience for me. I am now learning italian, and on June I’m heading to France to practice my french
I’m going to continue reading your blog, so I can get more inspiration and to get rid of my fear
Hello, Earl! I am a humble Kentuckian in school in downtown Chicago for a few years. Like Catherine, I plan to set sail to anywhere and everywhere once I finally graduate. I doubt I could travel as extensively as you do, but I know I need to at least try it and see where it takes me. I could not being happy wandering the Earth forever, but I am sure that if I don’t give it a try, I will always regret it. There just isn’t enough excitement and adventure in my average American lifestyle. I am so appreciative of your blog, it has really opened my eyes and made my nomadic dreams seem more tangible. I just found it tonight, but I’ll definitely be catching up on old posts and following new ones. Thanks for sharing your life with the world and good luck to all of your future travels!!
-Sean
Hey Sean – Welcome to the site and I really think you have the best attitude towards travel! Even if you think you might enjoy exploring this world a little, you owe it to yourself to get out there and try. There’s no reason at all to have travel on your list of regrets later on in life.
And if you have any questions as you read through the posts, just send me an email through the Contact link above!
and just as i was about to close my laptop and go back to the real world where my near 2 week pile of washing awaits me, i stumbled across your blog! I have now spent most of my day, absolutely absorbed by your experiences and needless to say, i still have no clean socks. When youre in high school i think one of the most common questions your faced with is what do you want to do with your life? Everyone would respond with their desired career path or some with their dreams of having a family etc etc but me? all i could ever come up with was that i just wanted to travel. im 21 now and the idea of buying a house and settling down in one place forever still seems freakin absurd to me so i packed up and randomly moved halfway across my country to a state i had never visited. I guess it was just to get the ball rolling. My next move is ideally going to be overseas.. the problem with this plan up until now has been that im yet to find a travel partner who has the same free spirit as me. Everyone i meet is so bogged down in whats happening here, on this tiny little patch of the planet that we live on and they either cant or simply just dont want to see the world the way i do. Anyway i have no idea where i will go first when i do head off overseas and even less of an idea about where i will end but i do know that its gonna be the best thing i ever do with my life. And thanks to you i think i finally have the courage to say screw finding a travel buddy, IM the one that wants to do this, so im just gonna go and do it! There is literally nothing holding me back except for that little ‘but what if’ voice in the back of my head and ive decided that from now im just gonna tell him to shut the hell up. Its so refreshing to see somebody living my dream and i cant wait to read more about what youre getting upto!
Anyway considering i am commenting on this particular post i suppose i had better tell you where i am. Im sitting in my house about half an hour east of Perths city. I moved here 3 months ago from Adelaide and i just love it! Despite my strong ambition to get out of Australia, i will say that i find myself regularly reflecting on what an incredibly beautiful country i live in here. Youve obviously been to Australia quite a few times so im interested to know what is your favourite part to visit?
Hey Taysia – Thanks for the comment and I think you’re on the right track for sure! There is nothing stopping you from achieving your travel goals and if finding a travel partner is all that’s left, well, it seems that you’ve realized it’s not so important after all. Just as you made the move to Western Australia on your own (I assume), so too can you make the move to some overseas traveling!
As for Australia, I love it all and would have to agree that you do live in one amazing country! Melbourne has always been my favorite city (I’m biased because I studied there for a semester back during my uni days) but I also love Byron Bay, the Daintree Rainforest and especially Broome. But I’m also an Adelaide fan and was there on my last trip to Australia…had a great time of course. Adelaide is the perfect size city for me.
I really enjoyed Perth as well and found myself wondering what it would be like to live in Fremantle for a while. Too many wonderful places in your country.
Hope you got your washing done in the end
Hello! This is my first time to your site and I am definitely getting sucked in. I am home sick from work today and foresee spending many hours on here.
My husband and I quit our jobs, ditched our apartment, and left our cat with his parents back in 2010 to travel around the world. Hands down one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. We spent about 11 months and traveled through 18 countries. We are back in the States now but that itch to travel certainly doesn’t go away. Coming across stories and websites like these only ignites the feeling that we need to go away again and see even more! While many people have lots of fears about travel, I found that I was way more comfortable than I anticipated and the experience really reconnected me with the kindness of the human spirit. Some of my best memories came from trusting complete strangers as they befriended us and opened their lives and homes to us. We live in Chicago, so if you are ever passing through let us know and we’ll show you some traveler’s hospitality! Continued good luck with your travels.
Christine
Hey Christine – Thanks for the invitation! I’ve actually never been to Chicago so I should visit that city at some point
And I know the feeling of wanting to get back on the road again. That’s what happens once you have a taste, or in your case a bit taste, of the traveling lifestyle. And I’m glad that you found the human interactions you had to be so rewarding as well. That has always been the best part of my travels, no matter what country I’m visiting.
Greeting from Malaysia!
I am Serene, currently living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. But my mind always has a way of bringing me far far away. I daydream a lot – of crafting a beach-doll house, of building a wall tall book shelf, of writing a story, of happy memories I had with friends, of movie I watched last night, of opening up a small cafe that is decorated with postcards from all around the world, of traveling round-the-world, of working abroad, and the list goes on
I enjoy reading your blog. I think it is very genuine and uplifting! Wherever you’re now, have a blast!
Hey Serene – Welcome and I appreciate you reading the blog! Seems like you have a few dreams of your own for this life and I hope that you are taking steps towards some of them…that’s the only way to accomplish those goals. I would be first in line if you had a cafe with postcards from around the world
Greetings Earl! I am in a small town in southern Ontario Canada, about 1hr from the Michigan border! Have you travelled Canada much? I havent really been anywhere in the world….yet. Other than living in Alberta Canada for 3yrs, I havent ventured out of Ontario much. Furthest I’ve been is a trip to FL with my family when I was young. so needless to say I am ITCHING to travel. Just graduated college for travel & tourism infact.
Welcome Junelle! I’ve been to Canada many times but only to the eastern part of the country – Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. I know I need to see more and I would love to get out west at some point. So I guess now that you’ve graduated you have some travel ahead of you??
Hi Earl,
, anyway,,i’m Uwan from Batam, Indonesia, its small island nearby Singapore. I yet travel to many countries but i do love to read travel stories.it’s bring my imagination to somewhere i don’t know about.
Glad that i found your site, i found it on my friend’s wall on FB, and i like to read your stories
always take good care and stay safe
Cheers,
Hey Uwan! It’s great to have you here and I hope all is well out there in Batam! I’ve never been to that island but now you have me curious…I just might have to visit the next time I’m in that area
You are always welcome here Earl:)
Batam is in Kepulauan Riau, Batam itself is not really great place to visit as it’s industrial Area, but Batam surrounding with beautiful islands, like Bintan, Natuna, Lingga, Anambas, and other small islands..
let me know if you wanna visit Batam
greetings from Oceanside, Oregon!
Welcome to the site Michelle & hope your spring is going well over there in Oceanside!
Greeting from Yosemite Earl! Your site has been invaluable for me planning my first trip to Europe in the fall…
Hey Michael – Make sure you let me know how your trip goes in the end and as always, let me know if any other questions arise! In the meantime, enjoy being in Yosemite, a place I have yet to visit myself.
Hi Earl, I’m Noel. I’ve spent 7 years travelling/working/living around Europe, the Middle East and South America. Recently got back to my hometown. So, welcome to Miri, a small coastal city on the Borneo island.
Hey Noel – Borneo is on the radar for my next trip to Asia. I’m not sure when it will be exactly, but it will happen within the next year I’m sure. Glad to hear from another long term traveler!
Hey Earl, I may be heading off again next year. But do let me know if you are heading this way and hopefully I will still be here to show you around. Btw, your site has been an inspiration. Thanks.
I’m in Canberra, Australia. Just returned home from traveling to Las Vegas, Universal Studios Orlando, Paris, Barcelona, Vienna, Prague back to Disney World, Las Vegas and back home.
I travel to the US a couple of times a year and have also been to Yiwu in China, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Fiji, New Zealand ( that’s cheating – I was born there) and a few other places that have slipped my mind at the moment.
Loving your blog by the way, interesting stuff.
Hi Earl,
Love reading about your travels, the missus and I packed our bags about 6 months ago to travel the world with no end date. Your website and lifestyle were a big inspiration, so thank you.
We have traveled through Cambodia, Thailand, Laos and now in China for a couple months. Probably off to Chile after that and then the rest of South America. Leaving all our woes, debts and responsibilities behind to travel was the best thing we ever did. It seemed almost impossible at the time, but now seems impossible not to!
Not sure the etiquette, but I have a blog I hope you might check out. http://www.tellthemisaidsomething.com
The name comes from Sancho Panza, his final words being, “Don’t let it end like this, tell them I said something”, a fitting quote to suggest doing something great with your life methinks.
Keep up the great writing.
Tyrhone
Hey Tyrhone – Thanks for commenting and that’s wonderful that you’re out there in the world, joining the nomadic travels
And that’s no problem about the link, I’ll be sure to check out your site.
If you ever make it to Eastern Europe, do let me know as I’ll be based out of Romania for a while it seems. Safe travels!
Hi Earl – if you are ever passing by Stuttgart in Germany, do let us know
We have a comfortable couch and a lot of excellent German beer, which we are happy to share!
Very much enjoying reading your blog and hope to get a chance to meet you one day!
Hey Masha – Much appreciated! It would be great to make it to Germany again as it’s been a while since my last visit. German beer works for me!
I’m in Tübingen, Germany for most of the summer but normaly my time is split between the Chicago area and in northern Missouri the rest of the time.
Hey Rachel – Welcome and hopefully you’re enjoying your time in Germany?? Never been to Tubingen myself…how did you end up there?
I’m really enjoying my time in Germany. I’ve spent enough time here for Germany to become my second home. For how I ended up in Tübingen, I applied for an internship program that had internships in other countries and since I could speak German, I ended up in Germany. I just happened to be placed in Tübingen to work at the town hall’s IT department but it’s a really nice town and I love it here. If you ever make it here you should try to see the Stocherkahnrennen (Punt Race) it’s really fun and interesting to watch.
Hi again Earl!
I discovered your blog about a year ago upon my return to my home in NYC from India. Now, I’m in Singapore for work. I’ll likely be in Hungary and the Czech Republic in the fall. Perhaps a visit to Romania is in order?
Also, if any S’pore fans of Earl are reading this, email me! I’d love to grab a bowl of laksa.
Hi like your blog a lot! I contacted you, I need a dentist and wonder what country would be the best to go to to combine it with a vacation? I see you liked Romania a lot. The East European countries have very good dentists. So, I thought I might go there.
Hey David – There are dozens of places that would be good for dental work. So far I’ve had work done in Mexico and India and have found the quality in both to be excellent.
I’m in the Loire Valley, France and just blew an hour on your blog. New reader, couldn’t help myself. Time well spent but now I should actually do some work!
Hello from Santa Barbara, California! I just found your site a few days ago and can’t stop thinking about it; very inspiring! I’ve never travelled outside of the US and Europe, and your Welcome to India tour looks like an ideal place to start! So tempted to take a semester off of school and join in. If not this one I hope you continue in the future.
Hey Mallory – Stay tuned as I’ll be announcing more tours in the near future, so hopefully you’ll be able to join one of those!
I turned 22 that day
Hey earl love your website. Im from santa cruz california but curently in budepest. Still in school so i only really travel when i have time off, been in europe for two months so far this summer, but plan on an extended trip once i graduate.
Hey Joel – Great to hear from you and I hope you’re enjoying yourself in Budapest! I’m not too far away, living in Bucharest at the moment, so if you ever make it this way, just let me know!
HI earl!
You should visit Tibet and take bunch of pictures of the people and culture there. I am a Tibetan born and raised in Nepal and later moved to the US. I have always wanted to see Tibet but have never been able to do so because of work and college… :’(
I would love it if you could visit Tibet. Pretty Please…
Good luck and Have fun in all your future trips
Tashi Delek Angu! I would be very interested in going to Tibet and I’ve tried but the two times I was about to go, China changed the rules and stopped letting foreigners visit. So I will have to try again the next time I have a chance and hopefully I will make it there soon! I have no doubt that it will be one of the most fascinating places I’ll have visited. Thank you for visiting the site!!
Hi Earl!
Absolutely massive fan of your website and makes for great procrastination in the office!
I currently live in Luxembourg and have done for the past 13 years but also study in Aberdeen, Scotland. As I write this, I am stuck at a desk in a bank as part of a summer internship…nauseating is the only word I can find to describe it. I graduate next June and thereafter, I’m doing exactly what you’re doing and seeing the world, every last inch. There’s no set plan…just pitch up somewhere and hope for the best. Once this desk job is done, I will have saved enough money to live comfortably for a good long while.
Reading your updates have motivated me even more to graduate and travel. Proverbial hat goes off to you sir.
Safe travels!
Hey Callum – Thanks for that comment and even if your current job is nauseating, at least you know that the end is near! And that makes it all worth it in the end as the moment your adventure begins is going to be one of the most memorable moments of your life! No set plan is the way to go…just take the first step and let the story unfold!
Hi Earl,
I just reached your site last week and I’m amazed, it’s so cool that there are people like you who lives life in such an extraordinary way, sometimes I want to leave everything behind and start a nomad life like you.
Oh by the way I’m Komazo from Aguascalientes, Mexico, you should come to Aguascalientes in April-May to the “Feria de San Marcos” it’s not like any “Feria or Fair” you have seen.
I travel as much as I can but almost all has been short trips, I’m tied by the job :/ but I’ve been in almost all mexican states, my country as you may know has almost everything
and as international traveller I’ve been in Cuba and the last year I took the backpack and started a trip that crossed Costa Rica from shore to shore then went to Panama (you gotta go to Bocas del Toro) and finally the Colombian carribean including the Tayrona Park, I think that has been the travel I’ve most enjoyed because it was all backpack style, no reservations, no itinerary, we just wandered it was great. I will be backpacking in Europe in one month but I will be more tied due to my short time of vacations :/
I hope you are doing good and keep sharing such great posts about travelling.
Best regards!
North Carolina. wishing I was in Norway.
I’m in New Orleans, Louisiana. Thanks to your advice, I’ve recently visited 8 countries and am planning on taking a trip to SE Asia in a few months. I want to thank you and let you know you have totally inspired me. I’ve started my own blog at femmebionic.com. It’s mostly women-centered, but men are definitely welcome to swing by.
Happy Travels!
Clare
Hey Clare – That’s so great to hear and even better that you’re planning a trip to SE Asia soon! Another example of how addicting travel can be
And good idea with starting a blog…I’m sure you’ll have some interesting content to share!
I live in city in outskirt of Jakarta called Tangerang in the province of Banten, Indonesia. The city’s name is not pronounced like the fruit Tangerine, though :p
Felt so lucky I stumbled upon your blog and have been reading it ever since. I love it! It’s such an inspiration. Last month, I had a quick solo trip in Hungary-Germany-Czech Republic and it was awesome! I hope in the near future I’ll be able to do another trip.
Thank you!
Terimeh kasih Tantiana and it’s great to have you as a reader of the site!
Hey Earl!
Well I backpacked for 6 months or so across India on my motorbike that I christened “Beauty in Red’ and now am home for a while in Mumbai. Its monsoons here in India and I like sitting home with a nice book and cup of coffee when its pouring outside. As compared to getting drenched riding the highways. Trying to get some speaking engagements regarding travelling, following your dreams and being your boss and the likes. And also thinking of getting a ESL cert. Before I hit the road again in few months
Been through your site and its awesome. Its been a pleasure to come across your site. Bookmarked!
Nice meeting you
Cheers
Venky
Thanks Venky!
Hey Earl!
After months and months of contemplation, I must admit, your blog is exactly what I’ve been longing to come across for that extra push to go see the world. Within the last four months I have been seriously considering moving to Australia but have been held back by (God forbid I say it) fear. As a 22 year old girl who has never left Los Angeles, never been on an airplane, does not own a passport let alone a visa, and has never even lived outside of mom & dads house (geez typing all of this really makes me seem pretty square now doesn’t it haha) I have finally decided, come Monday (two days from now), I WILL purchase that one way ticket to Australia. Seeing as I intend to live on my own, the financial aspect has really been my biggest concern. It was the article in regards to being able to afford travel which brought me to this site to begin with, and with that, I must thank you so much for the comfort you have brought to me. I am about to embrace a journey that is completely unknown and foreign to me. I intend on purchasing your book for even further inspiration (and to hopefully refrain me from outbursts on a plane when I experience turbulence for the first time
) ANYWAY, just wanted to drop by and say thank you. I really admire you in following your dreams and I wish you an absolutely amazing journey with whatever you decide next. Maybe I’ll catch ya teaching in India or indulging in all the beauty Bali has to offer (those are my next two aspirations after this first step 
)
Best of luck!
xo
Paige
The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page – Saint Augustine
Hey Paige – Thank you for the comment and welcome to the site! Seems like you’re quite set on making your journey to Australia and I’m sure that will be quite a rewarding experience for you. Australia was the first place I ever went on my own (when I studied there for a semester) and it absolutely changed my life.
See you in India one day
Hey Earl–
I am in St. Louis, Missouri right now. Go Cardinals!
Hey Natasha – Welcome to the site!
Came across your blog and really enjoy reading all your stories! I live in West Michigan and really enjoy traveling. Growing up, my parents weren’t able to take us places that we couldn’t drive to so our summer vacations were always road trips. When I was younger I was mad that we weren’t headed to Florida like I thought every other family was. Now, I realize all the amazing things I was able to see that were right outside my back door.
I really enjoy traveling within the US and getting to discover the cultural differences within my own country. Sometimes I am so shocked with how different things can be without even leaving the country (or the state line sometimes!). I don’t think it matters if you travel near or far, but just keeping an open mind and really taking the time to see and take in everything that is around you.
-Cindy
Hey Cindy – I couldn’t agree more! Having that open mind makes all the difference and even if one’s idea of travel is taking the bus to next town, there is still plenty to be experienced and learned!
Hey Earl!
Currently writing from Dekalb, IL, haven’t been able to travel yet unfortunately /: but soon I hope! Quick question, with all the traveling you do, is a language barrier ever an issue? and if so, how do you resolve it?
Thanks for making such a wonderful site!
-Lexis
Hey Lexis – I’ve never really encountered any major problems with language. These days, in just about every corner of the world, there are people who speak English to some degree and in many cases, to a much better degree that you probably imagine! So between that and learning some of the local language, as well as the use of body language, you won’t have a problem while traveling.
hey Earl!
i’m brazilian and live in Sao Paulo, Brazil, but spent some time living abroad already – 1 year in Barcelona, 3 months in Florida, 3 months in Buenos Aires…. but I’m currently getting the travelling bug and wishing to live a nomadic life for a while! I work in online advertising, in strategic planning, and although I quite like what I do, I always feel like I’m missing out on something… and I know it is travelling.
Your blog is really inspiring and I’m thinking about planning it for real, this time!
found your blog thru NYT and am loving it!
xx
Hey Diana – Welcome to the site and you should think about traveling for real this time! Perhaps there is a way to take your work on the road with you and do it as you travel? Just start thinking creatively and you’ll find a solution I’m sure.
Hi Earl,
I’ve been reading extensively through your site the past couple days and absolutely love all the valuable insights, and enthralling stories, you’ve shared with your readers. I’m currently located in Izmir, Turkey, right on the Aegean Sea, teaching English at a private school. I noticed you’ve been to Istanbul quite a few times – I highly recommend checking out the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey sometime. Breathtaking scenery with the blue seas and tall, green mountains. Quick question: I was reading through a few of your old blog posts and read the one in which you mention teaching conversational English in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I’ve been thinking of doing a similar thing in Izmir since there’s a large University within close range to my apartment. I’ll be doing it on my own and was curious how small you kept your class sizes? I’d like to make them big enough to make it worth my time, but small enough to make the experience valuable for each student. Thanks for your help and enjoy India!
Hey Paul – I limited my class size to 8 students but always preferred to have around 5 if possible. This seemed like the ideal amount to actually hold a class that everyone benefited from while still providing enough income for me to survive.
I just found your blog searching for places to visit when in Cozumel, I’m heading there to do my first Ironman but I have some extra days just after to relax! I found your trip from Izamal to Tixkokob really interesting, hope I can make it! Ah, I’m from Monterrey and you are more than welcome up here at northern México, places I recommend: Cuatro Ciénegas, Parras Coahuila, and Real de Catorce. Have you read ‘Travels with Herodotus’ by Ryszard Kapuściński?!
Hi Earl -
Your probably newest reader is currently stuck, sick, in the tiny central western Australian nowhere town of Portland. Reading for inspiration of more exotic destinations to come.
Hey Cam – Hopefully you’ll be in those exotic locations soon enough! And thank you for being a new reader of the site
Heya Earl! Glad to meet another long-term traveller…I’ve been on since 2008, and had to deal with a lot of the same issues that you did…the first thing my family said to me when I left was “what are you going to do about health insurance?!?” At the time I didn’t know, but after a lot of trips to see doctors all over the world, I think I’m in better hands overseas than anywhere I’ve been in the US, whew!
I’ve semi-settled in El Salvador after looking for home in more than 50 countries and I can’t help but notice that you visited here, but there’s no info on your site about it? I take it that you didn’t go up in the fighter jet and go through arial manouevers with him? Or see the Lucha Libre where you can get up to the ring and nearly get involved? Or rapel into the crater of an active volcano? Climb down the face of a 40 meter waterfall? Taste some of the world’s best coffee? I could go on and on, but if you missed any of this, you might want to head back this way again…let me know and I’ll show you around
Hey Kelli – Nice to meet you too and while I did do some of the things you mentioned in El Salvador, I did not do all of them. And I just didn’t have time to write about that country yet…I’ll get to it eventually! And if I do make it back there, I shall look forward to you showing me some more of what that country has to offer
Hi Earl!
My name is Anne, and I just discovered your blog and too say it is awesome would kind of be an understatement. Your stories are amazing!! I follow so many other travel blogs, and have been running my own fledgling travel blog in preparation for all of the traveling and exploring I hope to accomplish in my life!
Currently, I’m just a freshman in college at The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, although I will be returning to my home in New Hampshire for winter break in less than a week!
Best of luck with your travels, I will most definitely continue to read all of your fascinating stories!
Anne
Hey Anne – Thanks for visiting the site and I hope you have a great break back home in NH! If you ever have any questions about anything you read or travel in general, just let me know…
Hi! I came across your site back in January of this year and was planning my get away trip to San Francisco, CA in June. I had my bus ticket (it was a lot cheaper and more scenic!), $1200, and 8 days until showtime and then my plans had to be put on hold. It was very discouraging and I lost all hope that I’ll ever be able to see the world. However, the new year is fast approaching and I started thinking of trying again. I don’t know if I want to have a life of travel, but I at least want to take a year and give it a go. According to this site, it’s definitely possible. I think I’m rambling…… Anyway, I just want to say that I’ve visited this site today for the first time in a long time and that I am re-inspired to plan a new trip, whether it’s San Francisco or Dublin. So thank you!
Oh, and I’m from the wonderful city of Boston, MA.
Hi Earl,
i have only just come across you blog several days ago and cant stop reading it now. im currently located in Tasmania, which is a tiny island at the bottom of
Australia. in March i begin my travels of around the world starting of with 6 months working in Apia, Samoa setting up surf life saving over there.
Dave
Hey Dave – Welcome to the site and your upcoming travels sound quite nice as not many people get to start off in Samoa! Should be an excellent experience over there. In the meantime, I hope your final month and a half in Tasmania goes well and of course, I wish you safe adventures ahead!
Hi, Earl!
I’m in Afghanistan, although I’ll be in Korea in a few months. I only just discovered your blog and I love your passion for travel, I look forward to your future posts.
Hey Cat – Welcome to the site, it’s great to have you reading all the way from Afghanistan!!
Hi Earl/Derek,
I’m from Singapore and I’ve been reading your blog to nurture my travel passion. Finally, things are coming to places and I will (hopefully) be in South Africa, Europe, and NYC this year.
Love your inspiring South Africa posts and kudos to your mom (helping me a lot in planning the trip!). Maybe she should start guess-writing more! I’d love to join your South Africa tour too but maybe it’s too wishful since my travel timing will be June/July.. Still be hopeful though!
Thanks a lot and keep travelling!
Hey Kami – Welcome to the site! And that’s excellent that you’ll be starting your own adventure soon…that’s a nice variety of destinations you’ll be visiting for sure. Do let us know how your trip goes!
Hi Earl!
I’ve been reading your website for a while now, checking out travelblogs since my boyfriend and I are leaving for a trip of about 18 months going from India, South-East-Asia to Australia and New-Zealand. I love your style, the info is great…: it’s hard to stop reading
I’ve so far lived in Sevilla, Spain for 6 months studying in 2005-2006, did a 3 month internship in Lima, Peru and travelled around Peru for about 2 months in 2007-2008. My boyfriend and I travelled through South-America for 8 months in 2010-2011. In 198 days we’re leaving again and there will have been 835 days in between trips to save up! Ofcourse I’ve already made the website 
Currently: living in Leuven, Belgium!
Enjoy reading your stories: keep up the good work and thanks for sharing!
Diew
Thanks for the comment Diew (and for reading the site) and that’s always good to hear when someone is about to head off on a long-term adventure, especially when it includes India, my favorite country!
Hi Earl,
I’m in Neenah, Wisconsin – not far from Green Bay and Oshkosh. When reading about your flights and layovers, it had me thinking those layovers would be perfect couchsurfing opportunities! I’m excited to be hosting a retired professor from Norway this summer when he comes to Oshkosh for the annual EAA Fly-in, and in September hosting a couple from Belgium. If you ever make it to this area of the country you are most welcome to be a guest in my home! I’m trying to make friends around the world, and travel via housesitting (I’ love Hectic Travels blog – they were just in Wisconsin housitting) or couchsurfing. Thanks again for the blog! ~ Sharon
Hey Sharon – That sounds so great that you get to meet so many different people and I will absolutely let you know if I ever make it to your area!