There is nothing like an inspiring travel story to get one riveted to get up and go. With a rough economy and the ripples of its effects hitting all corners of the world, is travel more of a luxury rather than a choice? A few years ago, Ramon Stoppelenburg thought of a clever idea to see the world, meet new people and inspire travelers worldwide.
http://www.letmestayforaday.com is his blog which recalls his 2 year journey(2001-2003) ; asking people if he could have free accommodations at their home, and would write about it on his blog. He packed a backpack with a cellular phone, clothes, a laptop and a digital camera and set off to find people who would “Let him stay for a day.” Practically all of the items were from sponsors and internet donations.
He gives new meaning to the idea of “Asking people for help”, which is how he came up with this idea. He was a journalism student in The Netherlands who dropped out to complete this journey.
“From May 2001 to July 2003 I travelled the world WITHOUT ANY MONEY, visiting people who invited me over through this website. I crossed distance with my thumb or with help of sponsors and supporters. In return for all support I wrote about this all in my daily reports on this website.”
His unique blog emphasizes the creativity of independent travel; the ultimate coach surfer. He puts into perspective the human nomad and how we can adapt to live with little to almost nothing. To survive for 2 years abroad and to travel to many countries, (He went from The Netherlands/Holland, to Belgium, France, England, Wales, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Austria, South Africa, Spain, Hong Kong, Australia and Canada.) with the help of sponsors and travel supporters is a great accomplishment.
It puts light on humanity as well! People are willing to open their arms and let a complete stranger with the best intentions to stay in their home. It is a cultural diaspora of human experience, adaptation and perseverance. To share their home, their family, share meals and live for that moment. His blogs show great detail of his journey and specifics to how he was able to think of the idea and accomplish this safely.
What makes his story special? Besides the obvious, he is another travel story. The best way to understand backpacking, budget travel and vagabonding is to educate yourself about others who have done so. His blog is an excellent example of understanding these ideals. I was deeply touched by a part of his FAQ section when he says “I believe that mostly people in First World Countries will submit a place to stay, but I also need to go and see places where the Internet is one of the last things people worry about. Writing about life in those countries can be an eye-opener for the rest of the world.” It reminds us that not only do other parts of the world live differently, but it is great to witness and appreciate this; and to appreciate what we have when we do return home.
His blogs and pictures are simply amazing. Its like watching a marathon re-run of your favorite television show; once you start, you can’t stop. He captures everything from the beautiful scenery of Mount Royal in Montreal, Canada to making pancakes in Sydney, Australia. He has seen and visited many countries and details his journey in his daily reports.
What is he up to now? He has another personal blog (http://www.ramonstoppelenburg.com) and he continues to travel. He considers himself a writer, concept developer, photographer and marketing strategist. Also, he is currently writing a book about his unique journey.
Interested? Get addicted like us and read his reports at all his free stays and his exciting journey at his blog:
http://www.letmestayforaday.com
His first picture starting his journey
Teresa is the Co-Founder of ArtofBackpacking; Ms. Art of Backpacking. She is currently studying to be a Journalist at St. John’s University. Upon completion of her University studies, she will travel and see more of this beautiful world. If she is not online reading all the latest travel blogs, you can find her writing and taking pictures around NYC, her hometown.
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