Around the World Travel with Everything-Everywhere.com
Full-time traveling is a dream for most of us. But life seems to get in the way, doesn't it? We've found an extraordinary traveler - and photographer - that manages to travel full-time, and share his travels with us. The site? Everything-Everywhere.com, created by Gary Arndt. Gary sold his house a few years ago and has been traveling full-time since then. He takes the most incredible photos, really delving deeply into the soul of a place. He shares these photos every day, and even prepares some for download for your desktop wallpaper. I just LOVE this May 2009 shot, from Wadi Rum.
He's got thousands of photos online, so even if you can't travel this *minute*, you can get your fix of truly seeing a place. You can also get inspired to just GO and TRAVEL, as Gary has managed to do. Gary's posts are full of generosity and honesty, too - as he writes about the bedoin camp manager who provides excellent hospitality; his reflections on PNG; and his experiences at the pyramids of Giza. Of particular note is his 7 wonders of...posts, which include the Philippines, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and Egypt.
seafood kebab selection at grocery store, Japan
We were lucky enough to sit down and talk with Gary about long-term travel, cultural differences, and more. Here's what he had to say...
Viper in Tree, Mulu National Park - Sarawak, Malaysia
WE: Please tell us about your site, Everything-Everywhere.com...
GA: It is an around the world travel blog about my journey around the world. I've been traveling and running the site since March 2007.
Child at Killing Fields - Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Row of Buddhas - Ayutthaya, Thailand
WE: What was the genesis of this site?
GA: I wanted a place on the internet where I could share my experiences and showcase my photography.
Harbor, Easter Island
WE: How is long-term travel, for you?
GA: I enjoy what I do and I have no regrets. I've been doing this so long that I think it would be very awkward to settle down in one spot even for a month.
Gary on Glacier, New Zealand
WE: What are some intercultural implications of long-term traveling? (Do you adjust into a cultural marginal, able to adapt to any culture, or do you tend to do something else?)
GA: It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to adjust to a new place. There isn't anything special you need to do, it is just a matter of getting used to your surroundings. While every culture is a bit different, it isn't necessary to change your day-to-day behavior in most places. Be respectful, assume there will be delays and problems, do not make a scene, dress simply and modestly, and mindful of where you are.
Dhow Driver, Dubai, UAE
WE: What are some of the most incredible facets of humanity you've seen,
GA: I've seen some incredible extremes in poverty and wealth. I've witnessed people who not only survive, but thrive in remote islands in the Pacific. As much as culture and language separate us, humans have far more in common with each other than not. Everyone cares about their families and want the best for those around them. Even though you mostly hear about conflict and politics in the media, most people are content to just live their lives.
Boat in Water, Mui Ne, Vietnam
WE: What advice do you have for people that are waiting to travel (money, time, job, etc.)?
GA: The hard part of traveling isn't traveling, it is leaving. You can always come up with reasons not to go. If you want to do it, you have to find a way get over or around the things stopping you. It can be done for less money than people think, you can work on the road, you can get leave from many jobs, and you can even travel with kids. I have never met anyone who has traveled for an extended period of time that has regretted it. It will be on a par with things in your life like having a child or getting married.
Tomb of Nefertari Sign, Valley of the Queens - Luxor, Egypt
Street Art in Florence
WE: Is there anything else you'd like to share with us?
GA: If people want to learn more about what I'm doing they can visit my website or follow me on Twitter @EverywhereTrip.
Here are some details:
Everything Everywhere Travel Blog
Subscribe to my Travel Blog
Follow me on Twitter
Get My Podcast On iTunes
Seals sunning on California Coast
WE: Thanks so much, Gary! Your travels - and photos - are an inspiration and an invitation to explore the world.
Feature Photo: Gary in the Canopy, Mulu National Park - Sarawak, Malaysia
All photos courtesy and copyright of Gary Arndt. All Rights Reserved.