Journey to 197 Countries: Exploring the world, one story at a time.
Hi, I’m Jacob, a traveler with a goal of visiting every country across the globe! From Japan and Brunei to Cuba and Belize, follow along as I share my adventures, discover new cultures, and explore the world, one destination at a time.
Journey So Far
Destinations
Recent Posts
- Taking a Day Trip to Hiroshima from Osaka
Visiting Hiroshima was an extremely moving experience and a great day trip from Osaka. I explored Hiroshima Castle, the Atomic Bomb Dome, the symbolic landmarks of Peace Memorial Park, and artifacts from the bombing displayed in the Peace Memorial Museum. - 12 Things I Learned by Visiting the Bahamas
After spending two nights in Nassau, I discovered a side of the Bahamas most cruise passengers never see. Here are 12 things that surprised me about visiting the country beyond the resorts. - Montevideo vs. Colonia del Sacramento: Which Is Better to Visit?
Trying to decide between Montevideo and Colonia del Sacramento? After visiting both, here are the key differences in safety, cost, atmosphere, and things to do – plus which one I’d recommend most for your trip to Uruguay. - 3 Best Things to Do in Panama City on a Layover or Cruise Stop
Only have a few hours in Panama City? Whether you’re on a cruise stop or a long layover, these are the 3 best places to visit – plus a few honorable mentions if you have extra time.
Travel Guides
- Montevideo vs. Colonia del Sacramento: Which Is Better to Visit?Trying to decide between Montevideo and Colonia del Sacramento? After visiting both, here are the key differences in safety, cost, atmosphere, and things to do – plus which one I’d recommend most for your trip to Uruguay.
- 3 Best Things to Do in Panama City on a Layover or Cruise StopOnly have a few hours in Panama City? Whether you’re on a cruise stop or a long layover, these are the 3 best places to visit – plus a few honorable mentions if you have extra time.
- Visiting St. Augustine’s Spanish Fort: History & What to Know
Here’s what to know before visiting Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. From its unique coquina stone walls to centuries of Spanish, British, and American history, this is what you can expect when exploring St. Augustine’s iconic waterfront fort. - Traveling to Cuba as an American: My Experience & How to Do It
Going to Cuba as an American is easier than you might expect. Based on my own trip, here’s how to do it, what to avoid, and what you’ll really see once you arrive. - Is the Bahamas Worth It? Flying vs Cruising Compared
If you want to visit the Bahamas, cruising is the best and cheapest option to see the country, but flying can have its merits.
Travel Stories
- Taking a Day Trip to Hiroshima from OsakaVisiting Hiroshima was an extremely moving experience and a great day trip from Osaka. I explored Hiroshima Castle, the Atomic Bomb Dome, the symbolic landmarks of Peace Memorial Park, and artifacts from the bombing displayed in the Peace Memorial Museum.
- 12 Things I Learned by Visiting the BahamasAfter spending two nights in Nassau, I discovered a side of the Bahamas most cruise passengers never see. Here are 12 things that surprised me about visiting the country beyond the resorts.
- From Kyoto to Nara: A Day Trip with Shrines, Deer, and Sake
From Kyoto’s iconic torii gates to the peaceful temples of Nara, this day was filled with friendly deer, hidden hillside shrines, and an unforgettable first taste of Japanese sake. Slower-paced and deeply atmospheric, Nara offered one of the most unique experiences of my entire trip. - Enjoying Island Life on Caye Caulker, Belize
This was a perfect day on Caye Caulker – fryjacks for breakfast, biking across the island, relaxing on the beach, and ending the night with stingrays at sunset. This was the most peaceful and memorable part of my Belize trip. - A Full Day Exploring Kyoto’s Temples
Our full day in Kyoto took us across the city to several incredible temples. From the shining Golden Pavilion to quiet hillside temples with centuries-old stories, including ones with a chilling “blood ceiling,” the day was filled with history and peaceful scenery.