Here’s some simple math. Two years. Eight trips. One month each.

That’s the plan, just as I laid it out for you back in April. The next stage of Traveling Savage. Or the first stage; all of my writings and pondering thus far can be viewed as a kind of prelude to the start of my first trip. I hope they’ve set a tone, a baseline for my approach to the experience of travel, that you will see striking through the posts, poems, videos, and photos to come.

As my departure to Salta, Argentina draws ever closer, I’ve decided to take some time to think about future destinations. I have a feeling that the time between trips is going to flash by, and it will help to have some preliminary thoughts I can work from. Keep in mind that what follows is a rough framework that I fully anticipate will change. In my experience, time has a way of turning rigid plans into flaming bags of poo. I figure if I stay loose, roll with the punches, and avoid sacrificing the agility to jump on new opportunities, I’ll stay flaming poo free. Yay!

That said, here’s one possible framework for my unconventional travel around the world.

Fall 2010: Argentina

Argentina

This one’s got the green light. I’ve booked tickets to Buenos Aires and started lining up hosts there and in Salta. This trip will be huge on many levels: it will be the litmus test by which I’ll measure how I cope with solo travel, how I find and develop post and article ideas, and how Sarah and I hold up while apart for an extended period of time. I’ll have a much better sense of how Traveling Savage will function in the long run following my sojourn to Salta La Linda.

Winter 2011: Australia

Australia

As winter slams into Wisconsin I’m planning an escape to the land down under and the tail end of summer. Australia is awfully big and, per my style of travel, I can promise you that I will only see a tiny segment of the country. Which part? I haven’t decided, but my Dad mentioned Tasmania and it’s been stuck in my mind ever since. I also read an article about Tasmania in a recent issue of AFAR and it could be the perfect place to settle down for a month.

Spring 2011: Turkey

Turkey

I’ve developed a recent fascination with Istanbul. The mix of cultures and religions, powerful history, and exotic flavors are calling to me. I’m slightly embarrassed to admit all of this was kicked off by an episode of the Bachelorette, but now I’ve said it and Google doesn’t give words back. Will it be Istanbul, Cappadocia, or some other destination? I don’t know yet. Suffice to say I’m intrigued by the culture and would love to learn more.

Summer 2011: Scotland

Scotland

I’m no stranger to Scotland. I’ve been there three of the last four years and spent many weeks driving the length and breadth of the country. It’s my favorite place in the world at the moment, and if I return I’m planning to spend a month in the western isles, probably Islay. Oh, did I mention that I enjoy single malt? No, this wouldn’t just be a trip of indulgence. I believe I could produce some amazing pieces with a month of focused attention.

Fall 2011: Japan

Japan

When I think about Japan, it’s all lights and crowds and very little personal space. I’d like to prove this image wrong. I would probably base myself in someplace other than Tokyo, though at this point I haven’t done any research. Japan is another country with rich cultural traditions in which I could learn much about myself and a way of life very different from my own. Plus, my brother’s girlfriend has Japanese roots so I’d have an insider’s view.

Winter 2012: South Africa

South Africa

Cape Town calls. Many bloggers have made the sojourn to Cape Town and it was on one of these blogs that I saw a picture of the city taken from the sea with Table Mountain in the background. I had this sudden impulse to go there and experience the place for myself. It looks like such a tidy, beautiful city with gorgeous natural surroundings. Copious vineyards abound and you can go cage-diving with great white sharks (I promised Sarah I wouldn’t do this). What more could you ask for? Again, the pull of a complex and fascinating culture has me.

Spring 2012: Greece/Italy

Italy

This trip would not be one of my standard eight trips. Every five years, my wife’s (and my current) employer gives you a sabbatical that equates to an extra paid month off. They also pay for you to go places you’ve never been. We’ve talked about going to the Greek Isles but also Croatia and the Balkans. The second half of this trip is a family vacation in the works for a couple weeks in Tuscany. I would consider this trip vacation for me, but I’d still be able to devote some time to work.

Summer 2012: Russia

Russia

To be fair, Russia isn’t one of those places that’s called to me through time and space. I’m not blind to its cultural charms, however. Often it’s the places you expect the least of that surprise you the most. This stop could be somewhere in Russia or in one of the Baltic countries like Estonia.

Winter 2012: Indonesia

Indonesia

Yes, Indonesia is where people go to love, apparently. I was having a hard time justifying my absence in southeast Asia with so many trips lined up. Many travelers head to Thailand and I think that would be wonderful, but the culture of Indonesia is more interesting to me.

Buckle up. I am excited, terrified, anxious, joyous, expectation-less, and down for whatever. And it all starts in seven weeks.

What do you think about my unconventional plan? Think I’m missing an important place?

Listening to: Boards of Canada
Drinking: Lagunitas Rich Copper Ale

Original photos by debaird, Cromo, a.h, jean poole, rojabro, Ian Muttoo, Blyzz, Marc, thisisbossi, and Ben Beiske, respectively, via Flickr under Creative Commons

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Article Comments

  1. Adventurous Kate September 23, 2010 at 7:27 pm

    Keith, this is EPIC! What a great selection of destinations! Very excited to be reading about your upcoming Argentine adventures…

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 12:53 pm

      Thanks Kate! Funny, “epic” is the perfect word to describe it.

      1. Ken Curtis September 29, 2010 at 5:47 am

        I bailed out of the US about 6 years ago. Lived on the south coast of Turkey for 4 years and now live in northern France for the moment – maybe Nicaragua next. But just wanted to say that I suggest the south coast of Turkey as more enjoyable destination than Istanbul. Istanbul is certainly interesting, but for a much less harried time and a better interaction with the culture go south. Try out Dalyan/Fethiye/Bosburun, and Datca for starters…

        The trails the thing, not the end of the trail – Travel too fast and you’ll miss all you are traveling for – Louis L’Amour

        1. Keith Savage September 29, 2010 at 9:42 am

          Ken – thanks for the tips on Turkey. Very valuable!

  2. JoAnna September 23, 2010 at 9:18 pm

    Wow! Look at you go! I love the line-up ~ everything is so different from each other. I have plans to travel just as much and often as you, but that’s as far as I’ve gotten. I don’t even know where I’ll be going over the Thanksgiving break yet!

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 12:54 pm

      I’m intrigued to learn about your life situation given that you’re lining up a similar path. If you don’t mind me asking, are you married? If you have an SO, what do they think about your travel plans?

      In any event, thanks for the feedback JoAnna!

  3. Caz Makepeace September 23, 2010 at 10:57 pm

    I love your choices and what a future to look forward to! You know how much I love Cape Town so big thumbs up for that one. You will love sampling all of Stellenbosch’s wines. Istanbul is a fascinating city. I was really surprised by it and never thought I would love it so much. It’s also one of my favorites. My very first overseas backpacking adventure was Indonesia. I had 3 months with 2 friends through Sumatra, Java and Bali. Not a lot of travelers make it to Sumatra and its one of my favorites. It will make for a unforgettable adventure. You’ve got me all excited now!

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 2:02 pm

      Thanks for the notes from your own trips to some of these places. Very interesting about Indonesia…I need to read more about it.

  4. Candice September 23, 2010 at 11:30 pm

    Hey, don’t forget the east coast of Canada! Hah. Love the itinerary though. I hear you’ll be chillin’ with Leigh in Salta, did I mention how jealous I am?

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 12:57 pm

      I know, I really want to get to the Maritimes and Nova Scotia. Maybe Greenland, too. We’ll see. They’re definitely in the cards.

      Yep, I’ll be spending some time with Leigh in Salta. Sounds like it will be a good time πŸ™‚

  5. Audrey September 24, 2010 at 2:00 am

    I’m impressed by your planning and picking some diverse places. My suggestion would be to add India and/or China to the mix. Both of these countries are not only fascinating from a cultural/travel standpoint, but are changing so quickly due to technological and economical changes. It’s pretty incredible to see – you’ll never read an article about one of these countries again (especially China) in the same way. My suggestion would be to pick one of the “smaller” cities like Chengdu in China or Udaipur in India so that you can get a feel for the pace, but it’s not too crazy and overwhelming.

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 1:40 pm

      Thanks for the recommendations Audrey. I will take them into consideration as the framework evolves. By picking smaller, culturally-rich places you’ve definitely identified the type of place I’m looking to explore with the Traveling Savage project. Thanks!

  6. Audrey September 24, 2010 at 2:03 am

    Oops, forgot to add. I vote for Tallinn, Estonia if you decide to stay in the Baltics instead of going towards Russia. I know I’m biased since I lived in Estonia for two years, but it’s also a really interesting country (creator of Skype) and it’s gorgeous in the summertime with the almost white nights. Vilnius is also fun as well!

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 1:45 pm

      I’ve heard a lot of good things about Tallinn recently. Chris from The Aussie Nomad really loved it. Seems like a great destination regardless of my plan.

  7. Akila September 24, 2010 at 3:59 am

    If it was me, I would ditch Australia and opt for New Zealand instead. For Japan, definitely opt for Kyoto. Fantastic city, tons to see, amazing food, and an easy distance from other major attractions.

    We like Cape Town — we are here right now — but it is very European and much less “African.” Durban is a bit sketchy but has more diversity and African roots and the Kwazulu Natal is amazing. I mean, jaw droppingly stunning.

    And, this might not be an issue for you but lots of these options are in pretty expensive countries so you might want to consider other cheaper countries to intersperse in between. I like Audrey’s idea of going to China. I think it is an amazing fast paced country . . . same with India.

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 1:57 pm

      It’s true that I’ve always been more enamored of New Zealand than Australia, but there’s something about Tasmania that has piqued my interest. I’d love for someone who’s been there to weigh in.

      Thank you for the Kyoto recommendation! As for Cape Town, I realize that it’s not your “typical” African town, but it’s very interesting to me.

      As far as the financial implication of these destinations, you make a valid point. For now, I’m letting my cultural interest lead the way and I will reassess continuously throughout these trips what’s feasible.

  8. anthony September 24, 2010 at 5:23 am

    Mouth-watering mate!!! enjoy πŸ™‚

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 1:45 pm

      Thanks Anthony!

  9. Sarah September 24, 2010 at 5:37 am

    I absolutely love your idea of unconventional travel and your destinations sound wonderful. You’ve managed to put together such a diverse mixture of scenerey and culture that I’m sure you’re going to have an amazing time (s). I can’t wait to hear about your adventures and to hear how it works out to travel in this way. Perhaps you may even get the best of both worlds?

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 2:15 pm

      Hi Sarah, that’s what I’m hoping for. With the goal of cultural immersion, I think it’s important to also expose yourself to the native land. I believe it fundamentally shapes the people in ways cities don’t always (clearly) convey.

  10. Ken September 24, 2010 at 6:35 am

    Great plan, Keith! The east coast of Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick) sounds good to me since Gr Gr Grandparents came through there and stopped for a while on the way to the US. May not fit with your objectives, though. I definitely want to get there and it’s so close it will be much simpler. Very exciting plans. It will be interesting to see how they look to you after the Argentina trip. I’m looking forward to your posts.

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 2:18 pm

      I really want to get over to Nova Scotia, PEI, and possibly Newfoundland and Greenland. Other places I’m considering include Norway, Colombia, Hungary, Morocco, Croatia, the Baltics, India, and China.

      So much to see, so little time. It’s exciting look down the barrel here and wondering what could be.

  11. Claire September 24, 2010 at 8:20 am

    and…….you have just provided me with my first laugh of the day. The Bachelorette!!! I love it. and I am a fan (not necessarily a proud one, but not ashamed to admit it either!)
    so happy to hear that major travel decisions are being hatched as a result of this show πŸ˜‰
    love the travel schedule, hope it all lines up!

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 1:48 pm

      I know, I’m exposing all of my guilty TV pleasures with Buffy and now the Bachelorette. There’s no shame in my game. Inspiration can come from just about anything, even Chris Harrison. πŸ™‚

  12. Michael Hodson September 24, 2010 at 8:55 am

    Sounds like a great plan. The first four stops are ones I’ve done and they are all spectacular. I echo Akila’s comments — you’ve got some expensive countries there. Adding something like Cambodia/Laos or Colombia might help on the budget side. As to Russia for that long…. hope you like it. I was completely done with it after a week or so (except for St. Petersburg, which is wonderful). Enjoy. Sounds like a great plan!

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 2:20 pm

      Hey Michael, any particular places in those first four stops that you really adored? I’d love to hear about them. As I mentioned in my response to Akila, I’m letting my interests guide me because I have the luxury to do that at the moment. We’ll see how things develop.

      1. Michael Hodson September 24, 2010 at 4:21 pm

        Turkey was great – as was Syria right over the border. Loved Istanbul and Capadocia. Olympus was interesting. I think I’d could spend months there. Liked B.A. fine in Argentina. Want to go back and hit Mendoza. Patagonia is a trip — and cool. And odd, come to think of it. Liked NZ more than Oz, but liked Melbourne a lot and also Port Douglas, as I’m a diver. Entire east coast is a backpacker’s party.

        1. Keith Savage September 25, 2010 at 8:44 am

          Thanks for the details, Michael!

  13. Christy -Ordinary Traveler September 24, 2010 at 11:13 am

    Turkey, Japan, Indonesia, Russia… I’m sooo jealous! πŸ™‚ You are going to have an amazing time and learn so much from staying put for a month! I agree with Akila about ditching Australia and adding New Zealand. I haven’t been to NZ, but I have been to Australia and frankly it didn’t feel like I left the States. But if you have your heart set on Australia and decide not to stay in Tasmania, then the west coast is the way to go. The west coast has it’s own Great Barrier Reef that doesn’t get publicity like the east coast reef does.

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 2:24 pm

      Hi Christy. Another strike against Australia. But New Zealand felt different from the States? Why is that true for NZ but not Australia?

      1. Christy - Ordinary Travler September 24, 2010 at 2:52 pm

        I haven’t been to New Zealand. I wanted to go there instead of Australia, but choose Oz only for the surf and more predictable weather during the time of year we were traveling. I’m not sure how it would be different compared to Australia. I just know from people I have talked to about the two countries that most of them liked New Zealand better. It sounds like Tasmania is a good choice though. How exciting to look forward to all these places!

        1. Keith Savage September 25, 2010 at 8:53 am

          Oops, sorry – misread your comment. My impression is that non-aboriginal Australia and NZ aren’t drastically different from American and Canadian cultures, though there are obviously nuances. We’ll see, I might push back Australia/NZ or cut it altogether!

  14. ayngelina September 24, 2010 at 12:07 pm

    Great list, but what happened to Nova Scotia? Montreal is also really lovely in the summer.

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 12:49 pm

      There are a bunch of places I’d love to go including Nova Scotia, but hard decisions have to be made. It’s entirely possible for this admittedly tentative framework to change, too. I loved Montreal, though I was there during a blustery, cold weekend in October. It’s where I proposed to Sarah πŸ™‚

  15. Cam September 24, 2010 at 2:09 pm

    All great choices! Sounds like a great ride over the coming years.

    1. Keith Savage September 24, 2010 at 2:22 pm

      Thanks Cam – it’s going to be a wild ride and I can’t wait to share it here.

  16. Andy Jarosz September 24, 2010 at 2:34 pm

    Great plan Keith – look forward to following your progress with interest. Re: Tasmania, we spent three weeks in Oz a few years ago and dedicated half of the whole stay to Tassie. You won’t be disappointed; it’s beautiful, diverse and almost deserted. It has some of the most beautiful bays, hiking trails and wilderness, and also probably the ugliest town I’ve ever seen: Queenstown – well worth a look, it’s fascinating in its own way.
    Hope to cross paths one of these days – maybe when you make it over to Scotland? Safe travels!

    1. Keith Savage September 25, 2010 at 9:00 am

      Andy, thank you for the first-hand experience of Tasmania! It sounds my archetypal favorite place to travel to, actually a lot like Scotland, too. What was your sense of the culture there?

      Oh, I think we’ll cross paths somewhere around the globe. Scotland does seem like the likely place πŸ™‚

  17. […] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Melvin, BriefcasetoBackpack, Kelsey, Kelsey, Cailin O'Neil and others. Cailin O'Neil said: awesome! RT @travelingsavage 2 years, 8 trips, 1 month each: An Unconventional Travel Around the World http://su.pr/1Bs0as #travel #rtwsoon […]

  18. Nomadic Chick September 24, 2010 at 8:33 pm

    You should ask Todd and Lauren what might be worth seeing in Australia. I’m fascinated with Tasmania as well. Interested to read your take.

    As for Turkey, Istanbul and Cappadocia are worlds apart. I touched upon both. They are equally fascinating for diverse reasons.

    Istanbul reminded me of arriving at the gates of Rome. A massive epicenter of smells, sounds, history.

    Cappadocia propelled me into explorer mode. Imagine yourself as an archeologist, unearthing ancient tomes of vibrant past cultures, not just one, but several.

    Can you tell I LOVED Turkey.

    And what about Burma? Or Tibet? Those strike me as places you might be attracted to.

    1. Keith Savage September 25, 2010 at 9:14 am

      Hi Jeannie, very cool to read about your love of Turkey. And the way you put it, Cappadocia interests me.

      I might get skewered for this, but there aren’t many places in Asia that strike my fancy. I anticipate that will change once I visit.

  19. Jaime September 24, 2010 at 10:05 pm

    Oh wow this is an AMAZING PLAN… when you set it up like that and with all the pictures and descriptions it really makes me want to just go RIGHT NOW!!! You have a great list of countries to visit. I am glad you have Australia that is in my top five to visit and its not on my RTW plan because I do not want to backpack it or vacation in it. I want to live there for at least a year. So I’m holding that off for a while. However I do think you are missing two other countries I am DIEING to visit (and are on my RTW plans) EGYPT & INDIA??? I mention because I have been waiting my whole life to explore those two countries!!! In the end its up to you of course and as you mentioned plans do change. Hope everything plans out well and congrats on taking the jump~

    1. Keith Savage September 25, 2010 at 9:18 am

      Egypt and India are on my list, too. It’s really fascinating to see the different countries that are must-sees from you guys. What about Australia, India, and Egypt have made them so important to you, Jaime?

      Thanks for the comment!

  20. Matt September 24, 2010 at 10:47 pm

    I think the list sounds fantastic – though I’d maybe substitute New Zealand for any part of Australia. Call me biased!

    I’m envious of your planned trip to the Western Isles – it’s an area of Scotland that I didn’t get to see.

    Also, re: Turkey – I think you couldn’t go wrong with Istanbul. It’s one of the most fascinating cities in the world.

    1. Keith Savage September 25, 2010 at 9:21 am

      New Zealand is really starting to gain the edge over Australia. I’ve been to Scotland several times and I’ve also neglected the Western Isles. I’ve only been to Skye and Arran, and I’d love to spend a month with a base in Islay and ferry among the other lesser known places.

      Great to hear that about Istanbul, confirms what I’ve been thinking.

  21. WanderingTrader September 24, 2010 at 10:54 pm

    Great list! I think it will be interesting especially since the cultures that you are going to are so varied and different. Will be a great experience, be interested to see what kind of culture shock you have, if you have any

    1. Keith Savage September 25, 2010 at 9:15 am

      Hah, I’m sure there will be some culture shock. In fact, I hope there is. That’s part of stretching and growing.

  22. Gray September 25, 2010 at 9:44 am

    What a terrific list, Keith! I love the diversity of regions you have selected. Don’t put too much stock in where other people think you should go. This is, as Kate said, an epic plan you have here, and it should be driven by where you want to go, and what you think you will get from being in those places–how you think they will help you grow as a person. And it’s not like you’ll never travel again after this. You have plenty of time to travel to other places in the world later, with your wife or on your own.

    On a side note, I wish MY employer gave us a month’s sabbatical every 5 years. I’d have had 4 by now.

    1. Keith Savage September 26, 2010 at 11:43 am

      It really is a wonderful perk. When they announced years ago I was in complete giddy shock.

      Thanks for the advice!

  23. Jenny September 25, 2010 at 9:40 pm

    Your trip sounds EPIC! I like how you’ve incorporated travel into the life you have! You’ve also selected a really good diverse group of places to visit. I wish you well on your journey. Mine starts in January!!! eek!

    1. Keith Savage September 26, 2010 at 11:44 am

      Thanks Jenny, I hope the experience of this plan is as good as the plan looks [fingers crossed]. Where will your trip take you?

  24. Earl September 26, 2010 at 12:14 am

    I like the fact that you’ve made a plan but are open to change, as there’s simply no way of knowing who you’ll be after your upcoming trip to Argentina. What might seem intriguing today, may be overshadowed by a sudden desire to visit somewhere else tomorrow. With that said, I would throw in another vote for India as a potential destination!

    1. Keith Savage September 26, 2010 at 11:51 am

      Good points, Earl. I totally agree. Travels like these have a way of changing things you’ve long thought known. Thanks for the comment!

  25. Guy McLaren September 26, 2010 at 12:18 am

    When you get to South Africa, I have a couch, a braai and some good conversation. This is your invitation.

    1. Keith Savage September 26, 2010 at 11:46 am

      Wow, thanks Guy, really appreciate the invitation. Sounds wonderful and I might just take you up on that πŸ˜‰

  26. Norbert September 26, 2010 at 12:05 pm

    Wow Keith, great list! So many interesting places, and each destination so different from the previous. Looking forward to read about your journey and experiences on all those destination and more.
    And yes, I agree with a couple of the above votes… one more for India! πŸ™‚

    1. Keith Savage September 26, 2010 at 6:49 pm

      Thanks Norbert. Any particular place in India that you’d recommend?

      1. Norbert September 26, 2010 at 9:30 pm

        Sure, although I haven’t personally been there, I’ve heard so many good recommendations about Kerala. I seems to be a really beautiful and laid back place.

  27. Carlo Alcos September 26, 2010 at 12:22 pm

    Wow. I can’t even pinpoint where I’ll be in 3 months! How exciting.

    If you decide to stick with Australia, you should (after Tasmania – which I’ve heard only good things about) hit Melbourne and then travel west. Almost everyone travels up the east coast so it’s well worn. I lived in Melbourne for two years and love the place. I’ve only been to Perth in Western Australia but from what I’ve heard, the west coast is beautiful and wild. Top of my list is the Kimberley.

    1. Keith Savage September 26, 2010 at 6:50 pm

      Hey Carlo – very cool to hear your recommendation for Australia. I’ll be sure to brush up on these spots if Australia remains in the mix!

  28. Andy Hayes | Sharing Travel Experiences September 26, 2010 at 12:25 pm

    Seems like a pretty good list to me. I think you’d really enjoy New Zealand, so if you can squeeze out some time while in Tasmania, I’d recommend it, though don’t sacrifice for my sake.

    1. Keith Savage September 26, 2010 at 6:52 pm

      Hey Andy – there’s really a battle between Australia and New Zealand going on here! I don’t think there’s any question that I’d enjoy New Zealand. In fact, there are so many places not on this list that I’d love to go. But since this plan is meant to be work, I need to carefully consider which places have cultures that really interest me and go there. Not sure Australia or New Zealand will make the final cut for this plan, but I’d love to visit both regardless.

  29. Andi September 26, 2010 at 2:22 pm

    Oh wow, what an AWESOME itinerary!!! Sooooo excited for you. Argentina is going to rock your world (as will Oz & SA). Hit me up for tips on all 3 countries if you need them.

    1. Keith Savage September 26, 2010 at 6:53 pm

      Thanks Andi! You should probably just give me your take on Argentina now πŸ™‚

  30. Elizabeth September 27, 2010 at 4:48 pm

    I would add Tanzania- you can climb the highest mountain in Africa (Mt. Kilimanjaro), go on safari and see the great migration (wildebeests, lions, cheetahs, rhinos and elephants), plus experience the unreal, unique paradise that is Zanzibar. Also, Uganda/Rwanda (for the Gorilla treks), Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet (Friendship Highway), Peru (Machu Picchu), the Galapagos (ranked as the number set of islands to see in the world), Patagonia, Aconcagua, and the Haute Route of the Swiss Alps! Good luck on achieving all that you aspire!

    1. Keith Savage September 27, 2010 at 7:03 pm

      Wow, Tanzania sounds amazing when you put it that way πŸ™‚ Thanks Elizabeth, I’ll check it out.

  31. Jean September 27, 2010 at 6:38 pm

    Congratulations! South Africa and Greece are definitely in my top 10. I highly recommend you – and everybody! – make the sojourn to Myanmar at least once in your lifetime. The most beautiful country with the kindest and most wonderful people (despite the terrible oppression). The Burmese have hands down the brightest and most genuine smiles I’ve seen.

    Cheers,
    Jean

    1. Keith Savage September 27, 2010 at 7:01 pm

      Hi Jean, thank you for the thoughtful suggestion. To be honest, I’d never considered Myanmar but it’s on my list to look into now. Thanks!

  32. […] This is really happening.Finally, just a week ago, I laid out a possible framework for my future travels around the world. The input I received in the comments of that post has been helpful, expansive, and ultimately more […]

  33. Brooke vs. the World October 4, 2010 at 6:42 am

    Hey Keith – Cool plan, mate! Please tell me that you’re coming through Sydney when you get to Australia! πŸ™‚ You can jump to Melbourne and then take a ferry to Tasmania from there. We should meet up in Sydney, though, so keep in touch!

    1. Keith Savage October 4, 2010 at 8:56 am

      Hey Brooke – that sounds fantastic. I’m keeping Australia in mind, though my second trip could be there, NZ, or South Africa. Not sure yet.

  34. Jayne October 4, 2010 at 8:16 am

    Fab hit list there – it’s always hard to narrow the location selection down especially with all the great suggestions above. Travel inspiration comes in all shapes and forms though – even it seems on the Bachelorette – love it!

    1. Keith Savage October 4, 2010 at 8:58 am

      Hi Jayne – very true. Even a quick glimpse of some place can get stuck in my head for a long time. Could be from National Geographic, AFAR, the Bachelorette, or Sesame Street. Wanderlust flourishes in all climes.

  35. […] mind’s reflexive tendencies need not be adversarial. As I embark on my journey to Argentina, the first of eight one-month trips around the world, I will allow my mind to do what it does best: find the perfect cuts. My days and nights will be […]

  36. […] cultures, I’ve chosen to organize each trip to a different destination. The result is a working itinerary that will take me to Argentina, South Africa, Turkey, Scotland, Japan, Russia, Indonesia, and […]

  37. […] compromise would be to attempt something along the lines of what Kieth of Traveling Savage is doing: one month trips abroad every 3 months. In this process, he is traveling for one month to […]

  38. […] to be guided by business sense. Successful travel writers are experts, and the reality is that the tentative plan I hacked together would not render me an expert in anything. Once I separated my personal interests […]

  39. Nimisha August 1, 2012 at 2:43 pm

    Great list – but I would like to add Morocco too!
    Been there last winter – and it’s an enchanting show! check out!

  40. […] across Argentina. It was to be the first trip in a series of eight that would take me to countries around the world. Argentina was a life experience I needed. It was challenging, clarifying, and calibrating. Looking […]

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