Why I Keep Traveling, and Why You Should, Too
Each of these places gave me something new to remember, and challenges that helped me grow. Traveling the world isn’t just a long checklist; it’s a way to constantly explore, learn, and put myself in new situations. Even when things go wrong, the adventure keeps going. I encourage anyone who’s curious to get out into the world, whether it’s a trip to a nearby town or a ride across the globe. Every country has a story waiting, and sometimes it only takes a simple step to track down yours. There’s always another adventure around the corner, another dish to taste, or a new friend to meet (click on the link to see my article about famous foods in Sumatra.) The world is richer than we imagine, and every moment on the road helps us write our own story, one journey at a time.
Travel shapes my life in such interesting ways. Every country I’ve visited has a personality of its own, and some trips have stories that I’ll always remember. Each place invites me to see the world with fresh eyes, try new foods, and understand a little more about how people live. Whether it’s a moment of awe in a big city or an adventure out in wild nature, these stories remind me why I keep my passport close at hand.
If you’ve ever wondered what makes travel so special, I can tell you that it’s often the unexpected moments—the things you couldn’t plan even if you tried. Every adventure changes me a little, challenges me, and gives me memories that make life more vibrant and full. I just had to create a website to express what my experiences were like and hope others would be interested in them
Here are 10 of my best travel backstories from around the world, each representing a country that left a mark. I hope these stories might spark your curiosity to track down some of these places yourself:
The following photo shows a bust that was sculpted by Pablo Picasso. This is supposed to be a monument dedicated to Guillaume Apolliniar, a friend of Picasso. The city of Paris wanted a monument honoring Apolliniar because he was a well known artist who died fighting for France in WWII. The city council did not like Pablo Picassos’ first bust (you know how strange Picasso can get) so he took this bust that he had made previously and used it. The funny thing is, this bust is not even that of a man. Pablo Picasso had a model/girlfriend named Mara. This is a bust of her:
1. Stumbling onto Magic in Paris, France
Paris carries an energy that’s hard to describe until you step onto its streets. I remember wandering through Montmartre one spring evening, the scent of fresh bread drifting from a nearby bakery, soft music coming from a window above.
One night, on the way back to our hotel, I got caught with my wife in a rainstorm without an umbrella and ducked under the awning of a tiny shop. The shop was a corner shop, with a beautiful view of Operá Garnier all lit up just down the street. Two ladies squeezed in beside us, laughing at the weather and sharing stories. Even though my French was shaky, I could sense the warmth that locals feel for their city. Paris feels delicate and layered, like every street holds secrets if you have the patience to look for them. People dress well and sip espresso outside, but it’s the quieter corners that gave me some of my best travel memories.
I remember watching artists sketch at Place du Tertre. (In fact, throughout this neighborhood, are scenes where movies have been made.) We did buy a sketch artwork and we payed for it with some portable payment device that several of the artists share. I do not know how many of these payment devices are shared by these Place du Tetre artists but there must be several because there are quite a lot of artists here. We spent a lot of time in the iconic neighborhood of Montmartre. We ate at an excellent restaurant that had 3 set menus that had a different price range for each menu. Each set menu had 3 choices of entré, main, and dessert. I do not mention the name of the restaurant because the family that ran it has since retired. There are several restaurants that have that sort of set menus.
We sat at various corners of the Montmartre neighborhood just watching the people and iconic scenes. We took plenty of photos and videos just of the neighborhood. There are a couple of heavenly patisseries that we could not pass up. We will never miss exploring this iconic neighborhood when we visit Paris.
What it’s Like to Travel in France
France is a country that expects you to slow down and appreciate the details. The food is a highlight for me, from flaky croissants in the morning to three-hour dinners at night. Historic buildings mix with lively neighborhoods, and the trains make it easy to see the countryside. Strikes, crowds, and high prices can be frustrating, but they are all part of the Parisian pace. Once you relax and adapt, daily life in France is full of charm and flavor. Exploring smaller towns can give you a more laidback experience—think of spending a quiet evening in Aix-en-Provence with a glass of local wine, or joining a village festival in Normandy and tasting cheese that will make you appreciate French dedication to food even more.
A word of warning:
Do book rooms in decent hotels. Check reviews about bed bugs. Many hotels do have a problem with bed bugs. A good hotel that has no problems with bed bugs are easy to find but I can recommend one which is excellent and it was even featured in a movie called “Something about Charlie “. The hotel name is Hotel Langlois. But there are many places that do not have a bed bug problem. Just make sure to study about that when making your hotel reservations for Paris. Just make sure to stay away from the cheapest of the cheap.
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The following photo shows Farida sitting on the balcony of the room we stayed in at the Niagara Hotel that overlooks Parapat and Lake Toba in North Sumatra.
2. Jungle Wonders and Coffee Farms in North Sumatra, Indonesia
My first real adventure trip took me to North Sumatra, far from Indonesia’s big cities. I went for the wildlife, hoping to spot orangutans in the rainforests near Bukit Lawang. Trekking through thick, steamy jungle felt like stepping into another world. I actually fell into a river on the way to the rehabilitation center. I remember waking up to the sound of monkeys above the wooden home we stayed in. I think they were howler monkeys. After breakfast, a guide led us to a clearing where a mother orangutan lounged with her baby. The air smelled earthy and sweet from nearby coffee plantations. It was thrilling to see the orangutans swing through the trees as they approached the feeding platform.
Later, walking through the villages, I tasted local roast made by farmers who take real pride in their crops. (One of those coffee farmers is my brother-in-law.) The hospitality here is genuine, and every meal is a little adventure; rich spices, fresh fruit (some I have never heard of before), and sometimes chili that will surely bring tears to your eyes (just mix in some extra rice.) North Sumatra showed me how much life exists away from city noise, and why protecting wild spaces is so important. I also got to watch how traditions thrive here, as locals perform Batak dances during evening gatherings, their songs echoing through the villages.
What it’s Like to Travel in Indonesia
Indonesia offers huge variety, from calm rice terraces on Bali to rugged volcanoes and dense forests throughout Sumatra, Java, and Bali . It’s still easy to get off the beaten path, especially outside the tourist hotspots. Public transportation can be slow and unpredictable, but every slow bus and ferry brings you closer to the people and the landscape. We actually got stranded because we were out exploring central Bali during the (all too early) hour when transportation completely shuts down. We had no choice but to start walking back to the hotel. Since we were north of Ubud, it would have taken us 9 hours to walk back to the hotel. Luckily, after about one hour of walking, a family in a black SUV, saw us and offered us a ride to our hotel for US $20. It was a father, mother, and 7 or 8 year old son.I accepted the offer (as if I had a choice).
English is not always spoken outside big cities, so a smile and a few Bahasa Indonesia words can open doors. While many travelers head to Bali, there are countless islands with hidden gems—you might find yourself on a deserted beach in the Maluku Islands, or hiking to misty peaks in Flores. Each region has its unique foods, music, and customs that add more layers to your adventure. I have an article about famous foods of Sumatra Indonesia so you can click this link to read it.
This photo was taken as we were relaxing in the lobby area of Holiday Inn & Suites Makati by IHG. The Makati neighborhood is in Central Manila
3. Ancient Ruins and Living Maya Culture in Guatemala
Guatemala fascinated me from the start. I landed in Guatemala City, but the real adventure began in the highlands around Lake Atitlán. One day, a local family invited me into their home for tamales. We talked about the history of their people, the Maya, and how old traditions shape life even today. Later, in the vast ruins of Iximche I hiked up ancient stone steps at dawn, the jungle mist rising as howler monkeys called from deep inside the trees. Standing on top of a pyramid, I could see endless forest mixed with temple tops, and, for a moment, felt connected to people who lived here a thousand years ago. Iximche used to be a Mayan capital city and, after the Spanish conquered this area, it became the first capital for them also.
Travel here means balancing safety, local customs, and a real sense of discovery. The beauty and intensity of Guatemala stays with me long after I leave. I also took time to explore the colorful markets in Chichicastenango, Antigua, and Relleno Amatitlán where you can see textiles woven by hand, each pattern telling a story passed through generations.
What it’s Like to Travel in Guatemala
Guatemala has a mix of vibrant cities, colorful markets, colonial buildings, and dramatic landscapes. Getting around can be a real challenge. Public buses (“chicken buses”) are cheap but crowded. But this country is full of warm people, incredible textiles, amazing volcanic scenery, and strong indigenous culture. Learning some Spanish helps a lot, and respecting local traditions makes experiences much richer. Hiking up volcanoes like Pacaya or exploring lakeside villages by boat gives you a glimpse of the country’s adventure spirit—just remember to check in with locals about safety and weather, since things can change quickly in the highlands.
The following photo was taken on the nature trail of the Queen Elizabeth II Botanical Gardens.
4. Coral Reefs and Beach Living on Grand Cayman
My time on Grand Cayman was pure relaxation after an intense work stretch. I couldn’t wait to swim with tropical fish, so I made sure to visit the coral reefs off Seven Mile Beach for snorkeling. The colors underwater—bright blue tangs, little clownfish, shifting coral—felt unreal. One morning and afternoon (I stayed all day), I caught a bus to Queen Elizabeth Botanical Gardens. They have a very beautiful nature walk there and the rare Blue Iguana can be seen meandering along the trail in many places. I cannot even remember how many blue iguanas I saw on and beside the nature trail.
Evenings meant grilled fresh seafood and gentle guitar music at local spots. Grand Cayman is known for its laidback vibe, safety, and crystal-clear water. It’s easy to slow down here, lose track of time, and breathe in the salty air. I took slow walks along the shore or around George Town at sunrise for my photo walks and chatted with local artists who carve sea creatures into driftwood—a perfect memento for anyone who wants to bring a piece of the ocean home.
What it’s Like to Travel in the Cayman Islands
Grand Cayman is clean, friendly, and safe, with an easy going Caribbean feel. Prices are higher than many other islands, so it helps to budget for food and tours. The infrastructure is good, and it’s very comfortable for families or solo travelers. The beaches really are as pretty as you’ve heard, and water sports are a big draw. If you love diving or snorkeling, there are protected areas teeming with sea life to explore. Even if you’re not a swimmer, the local cuisine—like fresh conch fritters and coconut shrimp—will keep you coming back for more.
Some mornings there will plenty of seaweed on the beaches. You just have to wait a short while for the seaweed to be cleaned off of the beaches. They are pretty good at clearing the beaches every morning.
The following photo was taken on the Brooklyn Bridge in NYC is a town we often travel to as it is a layover city to many destinations in Europe and Asia.
5. Chasing History and Eating Well Across Italy
Italy is like a living museum. My favorite memory is wandering the narrow alleys in Naples (Napoli) turning a corner, and suddenly facing the Duomo sparkling in late-afternoon light. Every day brought something new: sipping espresso near a castle, hunting for the best pizza, or sharing homemade limoncello in a small hill town. Limoncello is a heavenly drink that I would seek out constantly in Naples. After the underground tour of Naples, I went straight to a limoncello stand close to where the tour ends.
Italian trains zipped me to hilltop villages like Paestum and the ancient city of Hercalano. What stands out most is how Italians celebrate food and friendship—meals stretch for hours and everyone feels included around the table. Watching the sun set over the olive groves in Tuscany, you will understand why people fall in love with this country again and again. Visits to places like the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terra showcase cliffs splashed with colorful houses perched above the Mediterranean—it seems every region has its own proud culinary traditions and historic treasures.
What it’s Like to Travel in Italy
Italy is very visitor friendly, with great trains and passionate locals happy to share their culture. It helps to plan for crowds in top cities during high season, but there are still quiet corners if you look. Meals are an event, and the history can be overwhelming, so I recommend taking your time. When I stayed at Giovannis’ Homestay, all the guests were invited to a home-cooked meal made by Giovanni himself. Even small towns can surprise with stunning sights and amazing food. If you’re interested in art, every town offers its own galleries and museums, and the countryside rewards you with peaceful views and family-run farm stays. Don’t skip the local markets or slow food festivals—they’re an adventure for all the senses.
6. Night Markets and Thai Smiles in Thailand
Thailand was my second big solo trip, and it changed how I felt about traveling alone. Bangkok buzzes like nowhere else, but it was the night markets, like the ones in Chiang Mai, where I really felt the heart of Thailand. Food stalls offered spicy noodles, tangy papaya salad, pineapple juice, or iced tea that cooled me down in the sticky heat. Early mornings meant visiting golden temples, hearing the soft chimes of bells and monks chanting. Outside the cities, I visited cave temples and ate a lot of different Thai curries from home cooks in rural villages. When I stayed at Buddhist temples, the village women would bring many bowls of food to the temple to feed the monks. After the monks ate, the women would bring the food to me. Many bowls of various Thai dishes to chose from. I always feasted when I stayed at Buddhist temple complexes.
The energy, kindness, and flavors of Thailand stick with me every time I think about going back. Floating down the Chao Phraya River at sunset gave me the perfect view of Bangkok’s golden skyline, and hikes through northern mountains led me to tiny villages run by welcoming hill tribes. I used the Chao Phraya ferries like taxis. They also have river taxis that are speed boats but I enjoyed the meandering pace of the ferry. After all, I was never in a hurry.
What it’s Like to Travel in Thailand
Thailand is a favorite for first-time travelers because it’s so open and accessible. It’s easy to travel on a budget, and public transport ranges from tuk-tuks in cities to long distance trains. English is widely spoken, but showing respect for local customs—like removing shoes before entering homes or temples—is really important. The street food scene is a real highlight, offering endless variety and flavor. Thailand also offers world-famous islands and beaches, so if you prefer nature and sea, places like Krabi or Koh Lanta give you white sand and warm water where you can just slow down and soak up the sunshine.
7. Chaos, Color, and Tradition in India
India pushes all the senses, and my trip here was equal parts overwhelming and inspiring. This was my very first overseas trip. I remember arriving in Old Delhi, my rickshaw weaving between cars, cows, and people. Everything was noisy, fragrant, and packed with color—spices, fresh flowers, incense from a nearby shrine. In Varanasi, I watched sunrise ceremonies by the Ganges River, then followed pilgrims along ghats lined with flickering lamps. I would sit at the Manikarnika Burning Ghat, watching the corpses being prepared for the pyre which was set on fire and sent down river. This is a 24 hour affair so there is no concern whatever what time it is when you get the sudden urge to watch a cremation ceremony or two.
Trains rattled me across the country, providing connection with people who always wanted to chat or share snacks. The Taj Mahal was beautiful, but the moments off the main route, drinking chai in a bustling alley or watching a festival parade, gave me the strongest sense of India’s heart. I did have a nice picnic on the grassy area in front of the Taj Mahal. I even attended a wedding in Rajasthan, where the music and dancing went on for hours, making me feel welcome even as a stranger. I went to Gwalior with some ISKCON devotees for traveling sankirtan which is why I was able to witness the elaborate wedding ceremony.
What it’s Like to Travel in India
Travel here isn’t always easy. The crowds, heat, and constant motion can be intense, but there’s a deep kindness and curiosity from locals. India’s food varies by region, often served on banana leaves or metal trays. Trains are an experience in themselves, and it’s wise to expect delays and make plans as you go. Modesty in dress (although I have seen men completely naked walking in the open streets) and learning a few Hindi words make travel smoother. Each region is different—the cool hill stations of the north, Kerala’s tropical backwaters, or the wild bustle of Kolkata—so mixing up your route helps you find balance between rest and excitement, hot and cool.
I have a long article on this website about my three month exploration of India. It is a long article and I still add to it as I remember more experiences. You can click on this link if you care to read some of my Experiences of India.
8. Sun, Street Food, and Ancient Sites in Mexico
Mexico was a ride through flavors and history. I spent time in Mexico City, climbing pyramids at Teotihuacan and eating tacos al pastor and tacos de cabeza (cow brain) from a late night stand. I actually ate at street food stalls a lot because I did walk the cities and towns for hours. I did have vehicles when I traveled through Mexico but I also used buses and trains to get to different cities. And I walked a lot to just explore. I actually lived in homes and ranches while visiting Mexico. everywhere I went, I meet families and lived with them. I lived in Mexico 3 times, 3 months each time.
Museums showed off vibrant art and told stories of the country’s long past. I then headed south to Zacatecas for more food markets and crafts. The street food here is just amazing—think fresh tamales, moles, and sweet churros with thick chocolate. Zacatecas has a really beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site which is a historic center of pink stone buildings and other ornate Spanish colonial architecture.
While living at La Unión and Huatabampo, I watched tortillas made every morning by the lady of the house and helped gather chili peppers, corn on the cob, and shrimp from shrimp ponds for our meals. Beyond the beaches, Mexico is full of music, hospitality, and traditions that blend Spanish and indigenous cultures. In small towns like San Cristobal de las Casas, festivals fill the squares with dancers, marimba bands, and men on dancing horses keeping old customs alive in a modern world.
What it’s Like to Travel in Mexico
Mexico is diverse in landscapes and cultures. Transportation is affordable, but cities can be busy and hot. Learning some Spanish goes a long way, but locals are often patient and helpful. Food is a centerpiece—regional specialties, street snacks, and family-run cafes. It’s smart to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, but most places are welcoming and lively. For nature lovers, mountain hiking, cenote swimming, and wildlife spotting in Yucatan add a whole new set of memories. Don’t miss exploring cenotes—jungle sinkholes filled with clear water—where you can swim, snorkel, and cool off in a hidden paradise.
This is the iconic Masjid Raya Al Mashad. We often pass it as we enter Medan North Sumatra which is just across the Strait of Malacca from Penang Malaysia.
9. Street Art and Slow Living in Penang, Malaysia
Malaysia surprised me with its blend of cultures. Penang, especially, feels different from anywhere else. The streets of George Town are filled with bright murals, old Chinese shophouses, and openair food courts where you can taste Malay laksa, Chinese dim sum, and Indian curries all in one meal. I spent afternoons walking past temples and colonial buildings, soaking in the humid, tropical air. Evenings brought hawker stalls where cooks prepared steaming plates to order right at the table. Locals love to talk about their city’s food, and I made friends over shared dishes of spicy noodles and icy cendol. Penang offers the perfect mix of art, architecture, and relaxed coastal life. Local artists put up new murals every year, transforming back alleys into colorful galleries, while the blue Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and vibrant clan jetties show how Penang’s history keeps mixing with daily life.
What it’s Like to Travel in Malaysia
Malaysia is easy to travel, with good transport and an atmosphere that mixes diverse cultures in both city and countryside. English is common, and people are used to visitors. The food is some of the most varied and affordable I’ve found. Penang, in particular, has a creative edge, a calm feel, and lots of delicious snacks just waiting to be tried. Hop on local ferries to see neighboring islands, or explore rainforest parks on the mainland where you might spot monkeys, hornbills, and hidden waterfalls.
A view of the hill where the statue of Mary with wings is located. She is called Virgin del Panecillo. There are food stalls here and the traditional canelazo drink is available also.
10. Highlands, Volcanoes, and Rainforest Life in Ecuador
Ecuador packs a lot of adventure into a small country. My backstory here starts in Quito, at high altitude, where the old colonial streets blend with busy markets. From there, I voyaged to Otavalo, famous for its Saturday textile market, and then to the Amazon basin. A canoe ride down a winding river brought me to a thatched village where I learned about the rainforest with a local guide. Monkeys darted through the trees, and evenings were spent listening to the sounds of frogs. Further south, I explored volcanoes and thermal springs near Banos, then watched humpback whales migrate along the Pacific coast. Ecuador keeps showing me how many worlds fit inside its borders, and why preservation matters so much here. Visits to the Galapagos Islands revealed wildlife that exists nowhere else—bluefooted boobies, giant tortoises, and playful sea lions that swim right beside you. Each region has its own music and celebrations; street parades and folk dances brighten up mountain towns on weekend evenings.
What it’s Like to Travel in Ecuador
Ecuador’s size makes it easy to see mountains, jungle, and coast in one trip. Public transport is straightforward for most towns, and staying with local families can add real depth to the experience. Spanish is useful, and ecotourism is a growing focus. Adventures here can be intense—high altitude, deep jungle, or wild surf—but the rewards are huge for anyone who likes variety. Even the food—like fresh ceviche on the coast or hearty soups in the Andes—shows off Ecuador’s diversity. Don’t miss picking up woven textiles or handmade pottery as unique souvenirs that help support local communities.
Thank you for reading my article here. I apologize that not all the photos coincide with the countries listed here but I did not always have good cameras during my earlier trips. I will update the photos as I return to the countries.