About the Author
Travel has always been a big part of my life. Some of my earliest memories involve the cabin of a Boeing 747 en route to Canada, where I spent every summer poring over my grandmother’s extensive National Geographic collection. Struck by the stunning images and stories of far-flung places, I resolved to leave my native Hong Kong at the age of 18 to begin a new life in Europe.
After pursuing an architecture degree in the UK, I spent nine months in the beautiful Spanish city of Salamanca, living out the movie L’Auberge Espagnole and traveling through Iberia with every possible opportunity. Although I have since moved back to Hong Kong, the wanderlust burns brighter still. My passion for travel and storytelling soon drew me into the publishing sector, where I spent three years learning the ropes at an adventure travel magazine called Action Asia.
In the summer of 2015, I left Action Asia to embark on a six-month dream trip retracing the maritime Spice Route. With my close friend and fellow travel blogger Bama, I traveled from Indonesia to India, looking for the legacy of the spice trade in local recipes, cultural habits, architecture, language and religion. Eventually I hope to turn our experiences on that ‘Spice Odyssey’ into a book.
Predictably, my case of itchy feet did not subside once I returned to Hong Kong in time for Christmas that year. These days you’ll find me editing a regional travel magazine, DestinAsian, out of Indonesia’s burgeoning capital of 10 million souls – Jakarta. I still take pleasure in going places between deadlines and the occasional work junket to Singapore or countries farther afield.
My name is James and these are the chronicles of my recent travels. Thanks for dropping by and feel free to leave a comment if you wish!
Plus Ultra 
beautiful james. look forward to more!
What an exciting blog! The pictures are breathtaking!
I look forward to reading more! 🙂
Hi James. We’re loving your blog. We’re also glad that you’ve included our blog in your discover section. Always nice to stumble across a like-minded person.
Gary & Ro (yearlongbreakup.wordpress.com)
Thanks for your comment on my blog, much appreciated! And don’t let the lack of gear get in the way of becoming a photographer… a huge amount of the shots on my blog were taken with a point and shoot camera. (dont tell!) You just have to shoot lots, look at other photographers work, think about your composition, shoot some more and be critical of your results. And have fun, thats the most important part!!
Awesome blog! 🙂
Keep it up!!!
how much time will you stay in Spain?
I will be here until the end of June. After that it will be back to the realities of working life!
Nice posts! 🙂
Thanks for stopping by on the blog! Sounds like you’re living quite the exotic life 😉
Hi James,
As a Toronto-dweller, I enjoyed your recent post about Toronto. It’s always interesting to see the city through a “stranger’s” eyes. You’re right, there’s more to Toronto than first meets the eye. Our city’s leaders are always going on about how “world-class” this city is, but I find that embarrassing. I’d prefer the city to be known for being a City of Neighbourhoods, which it is, and which is much more inviting in my opinion. Anyway, hope you’re enjoying Salamanca. I’ve not yet been there but it’s on my list. Thanks again for an interesting post.
Hi Elizabeth,
A similar thing is happening in my hometown of Hong Kong – the government is intent on branding it as “Asia’s World City” but as a citizen I find that there are many things that fall short of such a lofty title. Thank you for leaving such an insightful comment – I’m glad you enjoyed the entry!
Hey congratulations for your blog. It is really interesting. i am new in this area of travel. Just had been to Brazil. For me it will be nice to read.
Congratulations once again.
http://arjungabriel.wordpress.com/
Harish
Thanks Harish, I’ll be looking up your posts on Brazil. 🙂
Your blog is a wonderful opportunity for travelling from one’s desk or revisiting past memories. Expressive photos, and intelligent, informative comments, thank you, Lou.
I’m flattered Lou – thank you for leaving such kind, encouraging words. It’s comments like these that make my day.
I love your blog! Please keep posting.
Wonderful !!! Your blog is so simple, but full, well organized and to the point.
Wonderful blog, James! I love the way you document your trips across Europe.
Thank you Malou, I have to say that I love your insights on Dutch life!
Let’s continue sharing the many many wonders of alfresco adventures! Keep this blog alive. 😉
Salamat Sony! One day I expect to be blogging about the Philippines. 😉
Love your blog, James! And how lucky to have lived in Salamanca! We spent a night there in 2005 and were enchanted! Especially loved your post on Cordoba….your wonderful prose brought back memories! Looking forward to exploring your archives:-)
Thank you Madhu, Salamanca was absolutely unforgettable! I’ve just returned from a week in Beijing so I was delighted when I clicked on your blog – it looks like you’ve had quite the trip through China! I’ll definitely be following your posts from now on. 😀
This is an exciting blog James. I share the same passion as you of travel, and I like to do photography too. Would be exciting to meet you some place on one of our trips:) Do you travel on your own or do you find sponsors? i mean, it must be expensive to go to all these places!
Thank you Bhaven, I love the photography on your blog!
I usually travel on my own – recently I spent 9 months living in Spain so that explains the wealth of posts on the country. Domestic travel there is very affordable and I stuck with buses and trains throughout my stay. A number of my overseas trips were done with family; in Canada I stayed with relatives and friends so that helped to keep the expenses down.
I would love to spend some time travelling around India, it’s not too far from Hong Kong and I’ve never been there. Perhaps we will meet when I make it to New Delhi!
You are absolutely welcome to visit India & New Delhi in particular. Its an amazing city with lots of history to it. Typical of a fast developing city with a curious mix of the new, old and the very old. Drop me a note if you ever are here.
Will do, Bhaven – I look forward to meeting you!
Amazing blog, James. Thanks for the inspiration and reminders of the powers of backpacking. 🙂
Misha
You’re welcome, Misha. I couldn’t agree more with your manifesto!
Powerful blog! keep writing! 🙂
Hi James,
I really enjoyed your piece about the Great Wall. We saw it at Simatai and were surprised to hear that it is closed for renovation. Sad… we chose it because it was not renovated!
Maybe you should consider Panama for one of your future trips. We are just back from several amazinjg months there.
Thanks
Keith
http://jkhowie1.worpdress.com
I would love to visit Panama – I have a family friend there so it seems like the right place to start a trip through Central America.
Have a look at my blog. Lots of ideas for things to do. Will be following your travels.
Thanks
Keith
Great pictures, great reports. I just started blogging after our recent trip to Cambodia & Vietnam. I’m hooked!
Thank you. I’m looking forward to reading your posts – I’ve never been to either one of those countries!
Great blog. Will dip in regularly. I hope you never lose the hunger for travelling.
Thank you Bob – I don’t think I ever will!
Thank you for inspiring us to continue writing! Fantastic blog 🙂
Thank you Anika & Jo – I love the title of your blog!
Cheers 🙂 We’re now an avid follower of your blog
Great Blog. Will be following. Keep up the good work. =)
Thanks! I’m looking forward to reading about your adventures. 🙂
James, I saw that you also comment regularly on Third Eye Mom’s blog (which I adore), so I thought I’d stop by here. Your blog is gorgeous! I can’t wait to read back through your posts and catch up on your story.
Cheers from a fellow wanderluster!
Thank you, Meghan! I can’t believe you’re in Russia right now – it’s been on my wishlist ever since I was given a wooden model of St. Basil’s Cathedral as a child. I’m an absolute sucker for those onion domes…
Glad you found me through Nicole’s amazing blog. 🙂 I will be following your adventures from now on – happy travels and all the best!
Every time you add a new post, I can’t get over the fact that no one is paying you to update this blog! Your photos and your writing are really professional–I always feel like I’m reading a travel magazine! I have nominated you for The Lovely Blog Award. You can read about the nomination here: http://lostonplanetchina.wordpress.com/2012/05/27/my-first-blog-award/ . Keep on writing!
That’s very flattering, Rachel! This blog is my secret passion and one day I hope to make a living out of writing full-time. Whenever I hit writer’s block it’s people like you who help me to keep going. Thanks for your support and the Lovely Blog nomination. 😀
James, it’s Awards Season and I couldn’t not add your fabulous blog to my list of nominations for the Illuminating Blogger Award. I won’t be upset if you can’t find the time to play, but if you can, pop over to check it out: https://thewanderlustgene.wordpress.com/2012/05/31/confessions-awards-and-the-atlas-game/
Ciao
TWLG
Wow, thank you TWLG! I’m really inspired by your writing so it is a real honour to receive this nomination. Would you mind if I also did an Atlas Game?
I’d be honoured, James. Look forward to reading it. Now, you know the rules: First place that comes into your head, first recollection, right? Though if a recollection were to prompt the name, that would be fine too!
just discovered your awesome blog, james, and i’m being drawn in. looking forward to digging in deeper!
Thank you, Stephen! We have the dragon boat festival coming up next weekend so stay tuned for more on Hong Kong. 😀
Just found your blog and reading the Hong Kong section! I will go there next month with friends … Any ideas where to go? Perhaps only popular places as we only have around 4 days ;o)))
Anyway, hope we can meet at Hong Kong then … 🙂
Great blog!! 🙂
Thanks Timothy! For first-timers there’s the obvious sights like the Star Ferry and the Peak (don’t just stick to the tower though – the best views are really from the Peak Circular Walk outside); then it’s worth taking some time to explore the back streets of Central and Sheung Wan.
There are plenty of places to choose from; the typical itinerary would take in Disneyland and the Ngong Ping cable car to Lantau’s Big Buddha, but as a resident I think they are more than a bit overrated. Still there’s a neat fishing village on the western edge of Lantau called Tai O – it’s a bit harder to get to if you’re pressed for time, but I would recommend an afternoon there to get a glimpse of Hong Kong’s humble beginnings.
Hey James, thanks for replying.
Can’t wait going to Hong Kong!! 🙂 🙂
Hi James, I have nominated you for the ‘One Lovely Blog Award’. Please come by to collect the award here – https://colorodyssey.wordpress.com/2012/06/21/blogger-awards/
Cheers!
Ritu
Wow Ritu, thank you for the nomination! I love the photos on your website – can’t believe I didn’t see them until now!
James
Thanks James and Congratulations! 🙂 Love your travel pictures! and would love to go to Laos, hopefully soon, since it’s not very far from Singapore, where I live.
Cheers!
Ritu
Hi James, I am so pleased to hear that you have found a job doing what you do so well! I don’t follow many bloggers but you are one I read every time you post. Keep up the fantastic work. Cheers Elizabeth
Thank you Elizabeth! I can’t quite believe it myself, it all happened so very quickly!
Hi James – your blog is great! I’ve visited some of the cities you have too and had to laugh at your post of Ostrava Station. I missed my flight from Prague to Krakow in the winter and had to stop there as well!
I’m going to Shanghai for 10 months in 2 weeks to teach English and will blog as well – your pictures are great and I’m looking forward to it! artijalan.wordpress.com
Thanks Arti! I never did make it to Krakow while I was there… it must have been magical (and less crowded) in the winter!
Shanghai is like a wacky city from the future – I was there two summers ago for almost a week and I spent most of it hiding from the 40+ degree heat. August in Shanghai is brutal so it’s good that you’re arriving towards the end of the month!
Hi James, I just discovered your blog – what a delight! The photos and narrative are top-notch. Thank you and keep up the great work. I am from Africa and I hope you will pic a spot and drop by soon 😉
Thanks for the lovely comment, Jacinta! As a matter of fact I’m planning to visit Kenya, Tanzania and Madagascar in two years’ time as part of a bigger trip across the Indian Ocean – it’s fairly ambitious but I’m up for the challenge! 😀
Hi James… Your Blog is amazing. But, no Indonesia yet, right?
Thanks for sharing your experiences. can’t wait to read another post 🙂
Not yet – but I’ll be visiting Jakarta and Bromo in two months’ time. 😉
Terima kasih for the comment!
James, I can completely see the intensity and passion in your photo collection. It’s very beautiful, poignant and a thrilling visual treat ! Well, I shall be doing a creative project in Istanbul in the near future, if you are visiting Istanbul, let me know – we can arrange to dialogue on photographing. My plan is to leave Toronto and arrive into Turkey in next few months.
Keep photographing, it suits you !! Brava.
Thank you Shaheen, what a kind thing to say! I’ve dreamed of visiting Istanbul for a long time now, but realistically I don’t think I’ll make it there for the next two years or so. I’ll have to follow your experiences vicariously for now!
Hmmm…well, I think you might just make it ! I am optimistic!! Keep photographing, dear James, even when nothing around us makes any sense, capture even those moments. Cheers
Hi there, I randomly stumbled upon your blog and was instantly taken in by your writing and images. I grew up in Hong Kong and Canada, visited Spain for the first time this summer, and have been living in China the last three years, so a lot of your pieces really speak to me. I recently started a blog of travels in China and your style and perspectives are an inspiration. Look forward to reading more!
Thank you Frances, what a kind thing to say! I had a look at your blog and love how you’re going everywhere by bike – it’s great that you and Sean really emphasise the outdoors. Haven’t been to very many places in Mainland China but hopefully that will change in the next couple of years!
Hi James
I’ve nominated you for the One Lovely Blog Award. For more details, see here! http://denisediscovers.wordpress.com/2012/11/04/other-great-blogs/
Beautiful blog!! Love the background, your photos, and your posts. Will definitely refer to your post when taking a trip any of the destinations about which you’ve written. Keep up the nice work.
Thanks Lexi, I really appreciate the kind words!
Hi, I have nominated you for the “One Lovely Blog” award! Here the link: http://praguebykaty.wordpress.com/2012/12/19/one-lovely-blog-award/ – congrats!!
Thanks for the nomination, Katy! 🙂
I’d like to nominate you for The Sunshine Award! The Sunshine Award is given to bloggers who positively and creatively inspire other bloggers. Find out more about it by reading my post: http://briefhiatus.wordpress.com/2012/12/19/sunshine-award/
You deserve this. It’s so much fun following your adventures. Your writing makes me feel like I am there with you!
Thank you Tisha, that’s really sweet. 🙂 Have a great Christmas holiday and a happy new year!
Living the traveling life vicariously through your blog!!! Well done. Increible, miamor. Tu escribe y encender el fuego de la imaginación.
Muchas gracias – what kind words to say! Best of luck with life in the Dominican Republic, I learned Bachata while in Spain and I’d love to visit its homeland!
C’mon down, maybe you can teach me … pretty hopeless 🙂
Just stumbled across your blog and DEFINITELY going to follow and have a read! I can’t wait to start travelling after I graduate!
Thanks for following Kirsty, good luck with your degree and hope you go on a RTW after graduation!
Keep up your blog!
I will Jean, and thanks for dropping by. 🙂
Hi James I nominated you for the very inspiring blogger award 🙂 http://greentrailsandteapottales.wordpress.com/2013/03/28/very-inspiring-blogger-award-nomination/
nice blog, James! keep up the good work
regards from Indonesia 🙂
Makasih Badai, and thanks too for the follow! Indonesia is one of my favourite countries in Asia – I’ll be going back this summer to climb Rinjani bersama sahabatku. 🙂
It’s impressive how you can speak Bahasa quite well 🙂
Never climbed Rinjani before, but I’d really like to. This year I’ll visit Gili islands for sure, it’s close to Rinjani, you should come to the islands too 😉
Oh, hanya sedikit-sedikit. I learned a few basic phrases when I visited Jakarta and Bromo last year. 🙂
Think I’ll save Kepulauan Gili for next time – after Rinjani the plan is to see Lombok Selatan before the big developers move in!
yes you definitely have to go southern, it’s more like adventure rather than usual traveling, and the nature’s so wildly beautiful 🙂 Enjoy Lombok!
Hi James, I enjoyed your article on Dragonboat race at Stanley. I am a Hong Kong, who studied and lived abroad half my life. Since I also previously lived in Madrid in the 90s, I am going to read your Spain posts; I browsed the photos – gorgeous! Looking forward to following you! Cheers, Mrs. J
sorry, mean I am a Hong Konger…
There are times when I still miss Spain but I do love being back in Asia – especially with all the wonderful travel opportunities and destinations right on Hong Kong’s doorstep. Thank you for following, Mrs. J!
Well done on your Freshly Pressed award…very well deserved by you 🙂 I’m always so happy when blogs I love and follow get Freshly Pressed but I feel like I found you first 🙂
Thanks very much, Lakshmi! 🙂 Sorry it took me so long to reply, I guess you could say ‘real life’ has had me swamped in recent weeks!
the background image is superb.. really like the fact that its blurred… 🙂
Appreciate that, Bhavani. 🙂
Hi James – I nominated your blog for the ABC Award – check out my latest post 🙂
Thank you Alison, think I did something similar sometime ago. Travel alphabets are great for triggering memories, aren’t they? Kudos to you for getting nominated beforehand! 🙂
hello James, nice blog.. i really enjoyed your articles.. happy travelling! 🙂
Makasih and selamat jalan to you too! I’ll be heading back to Indonesia for my next trip, can’t wait for it now! 😀
sounds like you lead a great life 🙂
I still spend a lot of my free time over the huge pile of 1990s and 1991 original National geography magazines I got from my English teacher back in High School
Anyway, I can’t wait to read more stuff on here! Greetings!
Not many people have the privilege to do what they truly love, so that’s a fair assumption. 🙂 I would say my grandmother has a true Nat Geo library – it goes back all the way to 1984. Danke schön for the comment!
Do you, in some ways, relate to Vietnam? I find some lines on your face likely to be a Vietnamese guy.
Nice to know this amazing blog 🙂
Well, I was in Saigon this past January (first time in Vietnam) and I loved it there! Never had anyone think I was Vietnamese though, that’s a first. Cảm ơn for the comment. 🙂
I just came across your blog, and I am so excited to read about your travels! Good luck with everything!
http://darlingitsamadworld.wordpress.com
Thanks very much, Madison!
Hello James. Your blog is great and I love the images that you include with your stories. These photos gives us a look inside and makes me all the more eager to travel to some of these destinations to mark off my bucket list. Thanks for the view.
It’s my pleasure – thanks in turn for the kind words. 🙂
Hi James. I’m glad I came across your blog. It’s an inspiration as I hope to travel more in the near future. Speaking of which, I’ll be traveling to Vietnam and Hong Kong this autumn! Safe travels to you!
Hi Derrick, thanks for the comment. I’m sure you’ll have a blast in both my hometown and Vietnam! I was in Saigon this January and I loved it – the food was one of the big highlights. One of my favourites was the crepe-like “banh xeo”, stuffed with beansprouts, shrimp and pork. Do try their coffees if you have a sweet tooth, I especially recommend the hot “ca phe sua da”!
James, this is a beautiful blog. I’ve just happened upon it this evening and hope that my blogs can be as good as yours one day.
Thank you, C.M., that’s very kind. My advice is to keep writing, practicing and editing your entries. Investing some time in the layout/design also helps. Good luck!
Great Blog!
We are looking forward to reading your posts!
http://areyoureadytoconquertheworld.wordpress.com/
Appreciate that. 🙂
Hey there! Been enjoying your blog immensely – particularly the Canadian elements beautifully mixed in with everywhere else! And what gorgeous photos and sketches!
While I’m sure you already have a gazillion ‘blog awards’ just wanted to say ‘keep sharing!’
“SHINE ON!” http://everydayadventuresasia.wordpress.com/2013/09/16/shine-on-award/
Thanks for the nomination, Carissa! I do miss Canada sometimes… it’s very much a second home for me and a big part of my childhood. Not sure when I’ll get to go back in the next two years but I’ll keep my fingers crossed!
You’ll make it to Canada when the time is right. 🙂 Til then keep exploring, sharing and entertaining your voracious blogging audience eagerly awaiting your next missive! Hehe!
Hi! I’m a new travel blogger to the WordPress community and stumbled across your blog. I love your writing – it really takes me on a journey! I’m still in college but am hoping to pursue international development post-graduation, and am leaving on a year-long study abroad in two days to the UK. I’ll be at the Lancaster University Management School, have you heard of it? I’m so excited to explore Europe, since it’ll be my first time ever! Anyway, just wanted to say hello and that I’m looking forward to following you!
Cheers,
Olivia
Hi Olivia, thank you for the follow and your lovely comment! It’s very noble of you to go into international development, it’s something I wished I’d contemplated in the past. I do have a vague idea of where Lancaster University is, but have so far never been there.
My advice for you is pretty simple: make the most of your year abroad and travel often; see if you can snag some cheap flights to Continental Europe on Ryanair or Easyjet!
Cheers,
James
seriously. you are like the best photographer i have ever seen!
Danke schön – I’m very flattered! There are many out there on the blogosphere who take far better pictures.
but i think your ones are special 😉
Awesome blog, keep it up ! I’ll enjoy reading =)
Thanks for that, I appreciate it! 🙂
Hi,
Please check out my travel blog: jafre101.wordpress.com
It is about travel within the U.S. It would be really awesome if we could have you as a guest blogger and post about one of your travel experiences in the United States!
Please let me know.
Thanks,
Ameera
Hi James,
What a blog! Just seeing the theme gave a feel of what to expect in content.
But, browsing through your posts, exceeded my initial impressions itself.
I could learn a lot from here.
Thanks a lot for sharing.
Have a great time.
Sreejith.
Hi Sreejith, thanks in turn for your kind words!
I see that you have a number of posts on Bangalore and Kerala… they look like such dreamy places. Hopefully I’ll get to visit in the next few years.
James
Great blog….safe travels!
Thank you, Shikha – I wish you the same!
wow… what a great blog. neat, simple, tell everything clearly! thank you for sharing all the beautiful stories and pictures. I do love it…
Makasih juga for the kind words, I have many more tales and photos to come from my latest trip!
James a pleasure to be introduced to your blog by James and Terri at Gallivance. I look forward to following your adventures!
Thanks for dropping by, Sue – looks like I really must see more of Alberta (and Canada in general) the next time I go. Wish you a Happy New Year!
Yes Canada has so many beautiful spots to visit. Happy New Year to you as well!
That’s funny, I just left my native France to move in Hong Kong ! 🙂
I hope you’re enjoying it here, in spite of all the pollution and stress!
I just begin in the wordpress word, and I love your blog and your travel destination! Congratulations! 🙂
Hi there, thanks for the comment and best of luck with your blogging! 🙂
Wonderful blog!
I enjoy it!
Thank you!
this is a really nice blog! love the way you are writing 😉
maybe take a look on my journey around the world?
would be a pleasure to see you all there 🙂
http://mylifewithmybackpack.com
Glad you enjoy it, Christian – how lucky you are to be a travelling chef! 😉
I love both ‘The Spanish Apartment’ (2002) and ‘Russian Dolls’ (2005), am yet to see the third part, ‘Chinese Puzzle’ (2013). Have you seen all three. Am a great fan of both Romain Duris and Audrey Tautou.
Nice blog by the way, love those salted duck eggs, from your latest post.
I haven’t seen either of the last two, but if they’re anything like ‘The Spanish Apartment’ I think I would love both!
I like your write ups…I am following you..
I appreciate it, Leonila. 🙂
Great blog James! I will start following it, as I love to read about travelling destinations and you have great posts… We’ve been in Asia a long time ago and we are hoping to come back soon 🙂
We are from Portugal (I see you visited us a lot), and we recently started our blog to share our experiences, we will be writing a lot about Europe which is where we travel most. Take a look, we hope you like it!
Keep inspiring us with your adventures 🙂
Thanks!
https://wishandtravelenglish.wordpress.com/
Muito obrigado! I was only in Lisboa and Oporto for short breaks, when I lived not far away in Salamanca. Out of all the countries in Western Europe I really think Portugal is underrated – so beautiful and with a rich history, great food and lovely people. I’m definitely coming back in the future. 🙂
Nós é que agradecemos 🙂 (means we are the ones who should thank you).
We love it when someone says Portugal is great… We think so, but we are not the best judges… We will write a lot about Portugal and Spain (the famous places, and the others less known but equally great), in case you want some ideas for when you come back. And when you do, let us know, we will be more than happy to give suggestions and help you planning!
We loved Hong Kong (visited 14 years ago), and we are planning to come back with the kids, I’m sure they’ll love it too.
Thank you so much for your reply, we’ll be following your stories!
Hi James, really nice blog. I have studied at the University of Salamanca and I also love the city. To be honest I felt in love with every little corner and stone of that beautiful place 🙂 I´ll keep coming back to read your posts! Livia.
Gracias, Livia. 🙂 I count Salamanca as one of the most magical places I’ve ever been – and it was such a privilege to live and study there. Tengo ganas de volver!
Your blog looks really beautiful, especially the front page. I want to make mine look like yours.
My advice is to go with a theme that you like and customise it to add a personal touch. Good luck!
HI James,
I can’t imagine anyone not appreciating the travelling you do. Do you ever get into the music of the places you visit?
Leslie
That’s a great question, Leslie. I think with travel blogs and so many photos it’s easy to forget that sometimes the most memorable parts of each trip are the sounds and smells we encounter – not just what we see. Music is a big part of that and the more I travel the more I realise it’s a common language we all share.
There are plenty of songs that remind me of Spain (one of which came on the radio when I was travelling in East Timor!), and several that bring me right back to Indonesia. And I can’t ever forget the magical sound of Balinese gamelan…
James, I really like reading your blog, so I nominated you for a Liebster Award. If you have time to play, go check it out. Either way, keep up the great work! http://sixoclocksunlight.wordpress.com/2014/04/15/liebster-award/
Hi Leah, thanks for the nomination! Not sure if I have the time to participate but I sure appreciate the gesture. 🙂
Never stop exploring! Thank you for sharing your beautiful travels!
And thank you for reading, Meagan – best of luck on the road!
Hey! Just wanted to let you know that Ive nominated your blog for the Versatile Blogger Award 🙂 You can check it out here if you’d like 🙂
http://travelinginyourtwenties.wordpress.com/2014/07/10/nominated-for-the-versatile-blogger-award/
Thanks for the nomination. 🙂
…New follower, here!!…I just gotta say it: Way to rock the USAL hoodie, my friend, :-)!!…
Thanks! Glad you recognised the hoodie. 🙂 I hope you fall in love with Spain the same way I did!!
…Actually, I have–and I can’t WAIT to go back, :-)!!…
New to blogging, but not new to hearing tales of passionate travelers like you!! Really loved the bit about how you use to pore over the NatGeo magazines, in your introduction. I spent most of my library time in school AND college doing the exact same thing. I love your writings and descriptions.Just recently concluded college,trying to start off into my own world of travelling. May I never stop once I start!! Keep on inspiring us my friend.
Thanks for leaving such a kind, thoughtful comment – I read it first thing this morning and it was a nice surprise to start the day. Blogging takes a certain degree of commitment, especially if you’re holding down a busy full-time job. I hope you can keep writing (and keep travelling!) in the weeks and months ahead. Good luck!!
I’m so glad I came across your blog!! You studied in Salamanca!!
my jealous face!
Hi there, sorry it took me so long to reply! Salamanca was a real game changer – it was the reason I started this blog back in 2010. Can’t say I’m not envious that you’re going to Spain this month. 🙂 I would also love to visit South Africa some day, especially the Western Cape!
Hi James.. Nice blog!
Hi Bijo, makasih dan salam kenal! Saya bicara sedikit-sedikit Bahasa Indonesia karena sahabat saya tinggal di Jakarta. Ketika ada liburan, saya suka jalan-jalan keliling Indonesia bersama dia.
Hiii, James! 🙂
I have read in one of your comments elsewhere that Philippines is on your top list. I am a Filipina and it sort of flatters me to hear that from a foreign person who loves to travel and share his art to the world. Your blog is really awesome.
Wishing you safety on your undertakings,
Mel
Maraming salamat, Mel! 🙂
Yes, sadly I still have not made it to the Philippines yet… even though I live in Hong Kong which is only a short flight away. You live in a very beautiful country and I can’t wait to explore some of its 7,107 islands. Luzon seems like the obvious place to start, but I’m also keenly interested in Palawan and Panay. Thanks again for writing me such a lovely comment – safe journeys to you too!
James
Hey James! Thanks for following me! It’s great to connect with you and I can’t wait to read more about your travels and discoveries, especially right here in Singapore. 🙂
Hi Kelly! Thanks for following me back. Actually it was Bama who pointed me to your blog earlier tonight – I’m not sure how I missed it. Can’t say I’m not jealous… Singapore is such a great base for exploring the rest of Asia. 🙂
How nice of Bama! Awesome to connect with both of you!
In a recent post, I mentioned your blog as part of my own nomination for a Liebster Award. I noted that many of the blogs I love do not meet the Liebster requirement of having fewer than 200 readers, some are long-established and some are brand new, but if the question is who inspires me, amuses me, or makes me think, then your blog is on my short list at the moment! Consider yourself a Liebster nominee and feel free to write something about yourself and pass it on, or just feel the love and ignore the assignment!
Thank you very much for the nomination – I am honoured that you picked my blog for its writing. There are good days and bad days, times when inspiration is lacking, and I really believe there is always room for improvement.
Hi James – you are quite the world traveler 🙂 there is nothing like experiencing other cultures to refine our understanding of the world. BTW, I spent an entire summer at the Univ. of Salamanca studying Spanish literature, very long ago (1970s). I still remember that time fondly and often wonder just how much has changed in that city since then. The university campus was stunning, one of the oldest universities in Europe, I believe.
Wow Annette, Salamanca must have been even more magical in the 1970s! I wonder about the nightlife then – was it as wild and unrestrained as it is now? The city looks like it hasn’t changed in many years… I think the authorities have done a great job of preserving all those beautiful old buildings.
I remember us going down to the bridge on the river and singing all kinds of songs together, a bit of drinking went on…but I don’t remember it being “wild”…
Jumping in to read your travel stories
Appreciate it – hope you find something that speaks to you personally!
Travel and photography in your blog did speak to me 🙂
James, thank you for sharing both your pictures, your travel stories and your life philosophy!
I absolutely love your writing style, and your curiosity and researches you make on context and cultural references of places you’re visiting give a real depth to your posts,
Keep exploring plus ultra,
Cheers,
Ekaterina
What a kind, thoughtful comment! Thank you so much for this, Ekaterina. I hope my stories (and pictures) can do Russia justice when I get there eventually…
Best,
James
I am sure they will!
Best,
Ekaterina
Hi, nice blog you have there. I happened to chance upon your blog after reading ‘Temporarily Lost’. Just curious, are you of Chinese ethnicity? You seem to have an exotic blend of Indonesian and Filipino.
Thanks! Actually I am ethnically Chinese, although there is talk within the family of some distant Portuguese ancestry… my paternal great-grandfather even had a Eurasian appearance. It’s funny how you brought up those particular nationalities – I’ve been told I could pass for a Chinese Indonesian or Filipino Chinese on many occasions.
So happy I stumbled over your blog, I am taking “baby steps” into blogging about my family’s travels over the past years. And I am sure I fill find lots of inspiration for further traveling through your blog. Thank you for sharing.
It’s my pleasure. Blogging is a wonderful creative outlet – I’m certain you’ll get the hang of it pretty quickly. Thanks in turn for the comment!
This is just great! I love your story and admire the amount of countries you’ve already seen. I am also keen on travelling though I just started few years ago and do mostly low budget as my parents never could finance me this sort of things, I somehow managed to see most than half of Europe’s countries already. Hope that someday Ill hit as big numbers of country’s seen as yours, though the most important thing is that this is something that keeps us alive!
Do never forget to feed your wanderlust!! : )
Dziękuję! Well there are so many countries in Europe alone… so you have probably been to 20 countries without knowing it. 🙂 It is always nice to chalk up bigger numbers, but I have become very attached to certain countries so that is now less and less important. You will definitely make it to other continents in the future, I’m sure. Good luck!!
I hope you don’t mind too terribly, but I have decided to nominate your blog for “the Creative Blogger Award”: https://davidavien.wordpress.com/2015/06/16/nomination-damnation/
Thank you for thinking of my blog! I’m not really one to carry on the nominations (haven’t done so for some time), but I appreciate it nonetheless.
Not a problem! Thanks!
Awesome blog. I lost my sense of time watching it. Congratulations
I hope that was time well-spent! Thanks for dropping by to read and comment.
Your blog is life ……the pictures are breath taking
Much appreciated – I’m glad you enjoy it so much!
Good morning James, I am a new blogger, looking for inspiration and encouragement to journal m
I just wanted to say your site has inspired me. Your photographs are beautiful and your stories intriguing. I will look forward to traveling with you thrust this site. Thank you.
What a nice thing to say – thank you for the kind words. Best of luck with your new blog and stay committed!
Great blog, I’m looking forward to reading your stories and experiences from your travels 🙂
Thank you, Bonnie. Good to have another reader on board. 🙂
Thank you for the awesome blog James! I will make sure to read your posts before traveling to different places. They are very helpful!
Laurie and Edy, you’re welcome! I hope all those posts will serve as an inspiration for a future trip to Asia. 😉
Great blog! We’d love it if you’d check out ours some time and provide any feedback too! Keep up the good work 🙂 -R&E
Thanks, Rachael. Best of luck with all your travels! 🙂
Hi James.
Love the posts and pics you have here especially about Banda.
I am in banda at the moment and loving every minute of it. I just love the atmosphere. I’m not into diving like what most people come here for.
I will spend more time wading through your posts. Very fascinating.
Hi Freddy, good to know that you are loving your time in Banda! It is one of my favourite places on the planet and I am a tiny bit jealous of you right now. I’d go back in a heartbeat.
If you have time make sure you snorkel at Pulau Hatta and take a day trip to Run & Ai. I still have two or three more posts to come on Banda, but there are so many photos to sort through. Thanks for visiting the blog and writing me a comment!
Wow, I wish I could travel as much as you did. I will certainly look through your travel blog as we plan our upcoming trips. 🙂
Thanks for dropping by. I hope the entries here will give you some ideas for travelling around Asia. 🙂
Just discovered your great blog and looking forward to exploring more of your travels. Following now. Best wishes from Western Australia. TJ
Much appreciated, TJ. I learned elementary French many years ago so I deduced the meaning behind the name of your blog! Funny how languages can lay dormant and persist in the mind. Thank you for following along.
Good to know someone out there gets it! 🙂 Best wishes.
You already have a book. I think you can easily turn most if not all of the posts of your blog into a book.
Thanks for the encouragement, Lloyd. It’s certainly one option I’ve thought about.
Some books born from Blogs have done well for themselves.
Very nice About-me page. You wrote: “I spent nine months in the beautiful Spanish city of Salamanca”. Wow, then You must speak Spanish. When Young, I spent 4½ months in Las Palmas (Canary Islands) and learnt to speak Spanish. 🙂 Best wishes from Finland.
Well, I still speak some Spanish – but in those days I was practically fluent! It’s a shame how quickly language skills can go if you don’t use them on a regular basis. I would love to visit Finland someday, but of course in the summertime. 🙂 Thank you for the kind words.
Hi James, great to meet you! Have you ever been to Romania?
Hi Iosif, thanks for dropping by! I haven’t been to Romania yet, but I’ve heard good things from several people who have visited Bucharest and Timișoara.
Hi James,
I wonder would you mind if I use your photo “The village of Lonthoir and Gunung Api as seen from Fort Hollandia” on a blog post about Gunung Banda Api volcano? I would credit it to “James on notesplusultra.com” if that is okay with you. I’m writing for “Volcano Hotspot” on WordPress. (https://volcanohotspot.wordpress.com/)
Thank you! – Granyia
Hi Granyia,
Sorry about the late reply – I’ve been offline for a while and didn’t see your comment till now. Yes of course, you are welcome to use that picture with the suggested credit. I myself am a fan of volcanology and it is fascinating (though concerning) to read about the signs of a potential eruption at Banda Api. Thanks too for asking for my permission!
Happy to have stumbled upon your blog! Wonderful writing and beautiful pictures make for good reading. I’m a new follower 🙂
Thank you for the kind words! I hope my entries inspire you to travel more and see things in a new light. 🙂
Hi James, introduced to you through Sue :& Dave over at Travels of Life. I look forward to reading about your experiences.
Hi Lynn, glad to have you on board. Hopefully my accounts here will be both entertaining and informative!