My name is Bobby Bourne and I am a Black American.  I currently reside in the Pacific NW region of the US and work in the computer software industry.  I’ve been described as ambitious, driven, a risk taker, bold, courageous and many other things that I care not to mention.  LOL.  My ultimate goal in life is to be a successful entrepreneur and to travel the world.  Ever since I could remember it’s been my dream to embark on the kinds of adventures that one only sees in an Indiana Jones movie.  This is what drives me and it is what I intend to pursue. I have always vowed to live my life in a way that deviates from the norm.  The world is my playground.

My trip will begin on June 2, 2009.  I will be leaving the Seattle area for Vancouver, British Columbia where I will get a flight to London, UK.  These are the cities that I plan to visit on this great adventure:

• London, United Kingdom
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Paris, France
• Rome, Italy
• Porto Cervo/Costa Smeralda, Italy (on the island of Sardinia)
• Cairo, Egypt

These cities are not cast in stone and I may change things on the fly but that’s what I’m working with as of now.  Mostly I will be traveling on the train and using hostels for lodging, but I’ll do a hotel here and there depending on my expenses.  I will be undertaking this trip completely alone and I plan to meet many new and interesting people along the way.  This website was created as a platform for me to post pictures, videos, and stories about my trip.  I will be returning back to the USA on July 6th.  This will be a dynamic site so please check in frequently as I will be updating it.

Contact Me

51 Comments »

1. 

   Bobby B, happy trails man, you’re gonna have so much fun over there, I need to be going with you! I know God didn’t create this big ole World for us to just see the US! There are exotic foods to eat, different cultures to experience and the WOMEN that you must, say hi to, lol!!!!!!!!!!! I can’t wait for the documentary to come out, I know you haven’t thought about doing one but I just gave you that for free and I want to be in it! God bless you my brother and enjoy your safe and be safe!

   Lou

   Comment by Luther — November 26, 2008 @ 9:00 pm

2. 

   Hey Bobby,

   How are you man…I got your information from you mother (a co worker of her’s)…she wanted to me to contact you regarding your trip to Europe. I’ve assured her that you will be fine traveling along, but hey she a mother what can we say. As a young black man who’s travel alone to London, France and Italy, I will tell you that you are in for a wonderful experience man. The people in London were extremely friendly and most helpful when it came to great restaurants, pubs and shopping. Everyone smokes in London in restaurants and all pubs..it was the only down side for me since I’m not a smoker. Paris France was a beautiful place, however the Parisians aren’t as friendly if you aren’t fluent with french…however if you attempt the language you should be ok. Now Italy, man I love that place..I plan to retire there. American’s specifically black americans are recived very well there..they love to attempt to speak our language…I was a min celeb there..loved it…You will have a great time Bobby. Enjoy man and be safe.

   Comment by Gene Jackson — December 30, 2008 @ 1:33 pm

3. 

   i am so pround of you. you have always been a go getter.

   Comment by SHEMEICA WILSON — February 3, 2009 @ 3:45 pm

4. 

   Bobby — As your aunt, I can’t tell you how proud I am of you. You’re doing something I’ve always wanted to do but never had the nerve to do. Like a lot of people, I’ve always been too afraid to get out of my “comfort zone.” At least when you get as old as I am, you’ll never have to look back and say “I wish I had . . . . ” So, have a safe trip, take lots of pictures, and above all enjoy yourself. Although you’re traveling by yourself, I’ll be with you in spirit — wishing I was there too.

   Comment by Diana Freeman — February 24, 2009 @ 9:16 am

5. 

   Hi Bobby, nice to meet you. I work with your aunt Diana. She was telling me about you and what you’re about to do and I find it quite impressive. It sounds so exciting and I’m sure you will have lots of fun. Happy traveling and be safe.

   Comment by Dorothy Mitchell — February 24, 2009 @ 9:31 am

6. 

   Hey Bobby! This is your cousin Paige. Like what grandma and Dorothy said, im impressed and very happy that your about accomplish your goals. And im very very very happy that your setting an excellent example for your cousin and i plan to do the same and strive towards my dreams too. love you and it wouldnt hurt to give a girl a call lol..cant wait to see you this summer

   Comment by paige freeman — February 28, 2009 @ 3:27 pm

7. 

   Hey Bobby,

   Wish you luck on your trip and take lots of pictures!

   Comment by Mary LIneberger — March 5, 2009 @ 9:59 pm

8. 

   Hi Bobby, found your blog through Erik’s – I’m still uber jealous about your trip…sounds amazing!

   Comment by elizab — March 21, 2009 @ 10:44 am

9. 

   Well Bobby,
   This is uncle Ron and I am glad to see that you’re doing and looking well. I like to say go for it son, you’re young and the world has a lot to offer. I do strongly recommemd that you travel with a group even if its a small one, more protection that way in Europe. I wish I could join you but other duties are before me. Oh! by the way the be on the look out for my book coming out in a few weeks call “The Share Croppers Son” The Prodigal Son Returns.

   I am proud of you Bobby, and of course your cousin. I am going to tell something that took me a long time to learn, seek God for yourself and be a blessing to others and you’ll be amazed in what God will do for you. God bless you.

   Comment by Minister Ron Richardson — March 21, 2009 @ 5:51 pm

10. 

    Man enjoy your trip i wish i could go with you. now this well deffiently be a trip you will never forget. Man from our high school days i would have never thought you would be doiing so much traveling.Bobby im so happy for you man be safe.

    Comment by John Inman — March 22, 2009 @ 6:41 pm

11. 

    Who would have thought the quiet guy I had classes with throughout high school would grow up to do something so amazing. I envy you as you embark upon your ‘adventure’ but I’m also filled with such pride. Of all the guys from high school, you have impressed me the most with your ambition, with your eagerness to experience life and other cultures. It is often difficult for those in our community to fathom a world outside of P.G. county–particularly our young men. I pray that your experiences during this trip inspire other young black men and women to do the same. Thank you for sharing. I look forward to hearing all about it.

    Comment by Tonya (from high school) — March 27, 2009 @ 2:12 pm

12. 

    Wonderful!

    I am African American, have lived, worked and raised my children all over the globe. You will have a fabulous time and hopefully learn a lot about the world and yourself!

    More people in general .. and especially people of color should do this. As the economy becomes more global and less “euro-centric” Americans can’t continue to assume they will always live and work in the US.

    Have a fabulous time!!

    Comment by Gloria — May 11, 2009 @ 11:51 am

13. 

    Hey Bobby,

    It’s about that time and I know you are probably making final preparations. Just want to let you know how proud I am of you. You had a vision, developed a plan, and executed. That truly is the American Way and I am thrilled that you are following your dream. Watch your back, but most important, have a good time. I’ll be checking on on your site from time to time to see how it’s going.

    Love,

    Uncle Michael

    Comment by Michael Freeman — May 27, 2009 @ 8:52 am

14. 

    Little Bobby,

    Wow, you’re certainly not little anymore – by no means. I love the website. I love what you’re doing. You are truly attempting to live your life to the fullest with what you have today, and that is what we all need to do. We can not sit around waiting for the right time, the right opportunity, right funds, etc. I love your approach, demonstrating how it is possible to attain the same, providing the links, thus opening peoples eyes to the possibilities that they may have never considered. I’ll be checking back here often to see what you’re up to Wishing you happy and safe “trails”

    Comment by Tawanna — May 27, 2009 @ 10:09 am

15. 

    Bobby,

    Ok.. so now I’m getting nervous for you. I know I’m not suppose to tell you that. I’m suppose to shrug it off and be supportive just as I have each time we’ve talked about it, but this is truly going to be a trip loaded with memories to last a lifetime. It’s huge… and it’s just DAYS away! AAAAHHH! I know you have got to be psyched! I’m sure you are going through your checklist of last minute essentials that you have and have not picked up for your adventure. I’m confident that you have researched EVERY aspect and every stitch of your endeavor and with that I know that you will be safe. Have a ball and know that I’ll be checkin in. Pictures pictures pictures… I have to live vicariously through you for the moment.

    Be Good,
    Jamie

    Comment by Jamie — May 28, 2009 @ 8:13 am

16. 

    hey bobby long time no see. even though we didn’t grow up in the same neighborhood and only saw each other during family get togethers we have some of the same ideals and visions.except a few of mine have two feet and call me mommi (four to be exact). i had to do the same thing when i moved to florida. like lyric said to jason on the movie “Jason’s Lyric” ,sometimes you just got to get up and see where that train is goin’. do it dude. let God be your guide and if you are ever in fl look me up.sorry for the bad punctuation at least i can still spell (that took alot of effort that i dont have after work).

    Comment by Kawaunda — May 28, 2009 @ 4:14 pm

17. 

    Damn man, I am very jealous of you:) Make sure to have plenty of fun while you are gone and I’ll make sure to check in with your blog as much as I can

    We’ll try to keep your seat warm here at work and if you need an American voice to talk to in the late nights on the weekends, I suppose you could always call in a critsit

    have fun man, Take care and most of all be careful

    -DJ Launchpad.

    Comment by Adam — June 2, 2009 @ 6:37 pm

18. 

    I love it. I read all your blogs from before you left. You are definitely flying high. Enjoy all that comes your way. Be careful and trust your instincts and come home safely. And call your mother from time to time. (I had to say that.)

    Comment by Cousin Sheila — June 7, 2009 @ 3:35 pm

19. 

    So how is it going? I totally canceled my international text messaging too soon. All is well on the home front and I think I am going to go visit Indigo on Thursday. I can not wait to go on my vacation which is in 7 days! Oh Yeah! I am enjoying your website greatly and look forward to your updates! Catch you later!
    -Dre

    Comment by Andrea — June 8, 2009 @ 1:58 pm

20. 

    What’s up Bobby? It looks like you have been in a lot of tourist spots, how is the night life?

    Comment by Reuben Kizer — June 16, 2009 @ 3:18 pm

21. 

    Dear Bobby,

    hope you got my email a few days ago. How is Paris ? Still enjoying the French approach ?

    How is the night life ? don’t party that much.

    Greetings and good luck for your remaining journey

    Monika from Cologne/Brussels

    Comment by Monika — June 17, 2009 @ 5:10 am

22. 

    Hello Monika Yes I just read your email. Thanks for the information. Things have been hectic the last couple of days but I’m finally able to get online. I enjoyed talking to you on the train and I think I will take your advice and try to hit the south of france. I did very much enjoy Paris but you were right about the food. I guess I’m just too used to American food but Parisian food was kind of crap, LOL.

    Comment by admin — June 18, 2009 @ 3:19 am

23. 

    Bobby! Hey man; how’s it going!?!? I read through all of your posts and I think I see a little spiritual evolution going on. I keep missing you on messenger but I figure it’s cool. You are the one living. It’s got to be a bit weird “talking to zombies” when you are out there living such an awesome experience.

    I like your post about traveling all on your own. That is a massive achievement. I was thinking about it and with the exception of two trips to Taiwan, I have always traveled for work. India 9 times, Germany, Bahrain, Dubai, Japan, Singapore, Australia, and probably 10 other countries and it was all work related. Even when I went to Taiwan, I was staying with family. Your experience must be soooooo differnt than mine. Your stories will likely be much different as well. I usually spent most of my time hammered and didn’t make a lot of local friends (except India and Taiwan). I didn’t experience the local life. I was that stupid tourist for a couple days who didn’t get to experience the culture. What has been your most frightening experience?

    Sorry to hear the food sucks. I guess when you get used to Applebee’s everything else seems to pale in comparison . You got to think about it though. With food so expensive out there and since the cities are more crowded, you are probably less like to see really large people (except for maybe American and German tourists). What have you noticed? Have you spent much time in the slums? I tend to drive through with the windows rolled up when I am in cities with significant slums (Mumbai had MASSIVE slums) but what I saw was that the people I interacted with (other than beggars) who were poor were VERY kind and unassuming. In comparison with the people I was sent out to work with, they were way cooler. Tell me what you think.

    Alright man, time for me to get ready for “teh lovin’” (I spelled “the” wrong on purpose so don’t crack on me…:|)so take care of yourself! I hope you scheduled at least a week off upon your return; you are going to need it to decompress and re-adjust to being home.

    Take care Bobby and I am very grateful that you get to have this experience!

    Later,

    Shane

    Comment by shane — June 24, 2009 @ 8:01 am

24. 

    Hey Bobby,

    Good seeing you in Rome. Best of luck with your travels and everything… hopefully we’ll get to meet again. The world is small for us travelers after all.

    -Derek

    Comment by Derek — June 24, 2009 @ 9:39 am

25. 

    I have been meaning, for weeks, to check out your site to see how your trip was going. Well, I read your entry from yesterday and was compelled to read all of your posts from the beginning. What a fantastic experience! The way you have chronicled your journey has been absolutely amazing. I have said before and I will say again, how impressed I am with what you have done. Even before I got married and had kids I doubt I would have had the courage to take on an adventure like this. But reading your blogs have been inspiring.

    Please be safe and continue to enjoy. I can’t wait to catch up with you when you return!!

    Comment by Tonya — June 25, 2009 @ 5:53 am

26. 

    hey baby i just talk to you now i never knew what was this about now i know what you was telling me long time a go my english is not that good i know sorry about that, but man i love things that you doing in your life i have done that nand i know how it feels to b by your self traveling and learning new things in your life i am so happy for you wish you all the best i hope one day i can take back home were i came from, yemen sanaa you will loved bileave me

    Comment by maryam — June 25, 2009 @ 11:09 pm

27. 

    Love it, love it all!

    Great work!
    -jessie

    Comment by jessie from AK — July 25, 2009 @ 2:51 am

28. 

    Hey how was it? i live in the netherlands haha near Amsterdam. I wanna do the same as you but then In the US and africa
    PS: sorry for my bad english i am still learning it

    Comment by Mccallum Mills — August 25, 2009 @ 9:27 am

29. 

    Hey how was it? i live in the netherlands haha near Amsterdam. I wanna do the same as you but then In tge US and africa
    PS: sor5y for my bad english i am still learning it ;

    Comment by Algarin — September 27, 2009 @ 8:13 am

30. 

    How much money has passed thru your hands in a lifetime?

    Comment by ownbig.ru — September 30, 2009 @ 5:55 am

31. 

    Love your journey stories and pics from different countries, I love Europe and it is one of places that I want to visit. I will make it one day and will share my future trip’s pics. Rigth now, I need a ride.

    Comment by Joaw — October 3, 2009 @ 6:57 pm

32. 

    …you look familiar….

    Comment by Melina — December 14, 2009 @ 5:34 pm

33. 

    really?

    Comment by admin — December 14, 2009 @ 5:35 pm

34. 

    Hey Bobby,
    I was reading some of your comments on Trip Advisor and followed the link over to your website. This is the blog I’ve been waiting for! Myself I am a Black American who also loves to travel and like you I also want to travel the world. I’ve even floated the idea of taking an entire year off and doing a Round the World Trip. I would love to swap stories with you.

    Comment by Meghan — December 28, 2009 @ 7:37 pm

35. 

    Hey Megan, thanks for your comment and I’m glad that you like the site. It has always been a dream of mine to inspire people with my experiences and open people’s eyes to the world. Sure, I’d love to talk to you. You can hit me up at bobbybourne@gmail.com

    Comment by admin — December 31, 2009 @ 7:29 am

36. 

    “You can’t come through the world on a bicycle when there are people flying jets.”
    -Haki Madhubuti

    Bobby, when I seen this quote I thought of you and all of your ambition and will to get out there and leave your mark! I have faith that your love for travel will inspire others. Your dreams will expand beyond anything you’ve ever imagined, as long as you remain passionate about it and stay focused on your vision. Be blessed! =)

    No more bicycles for you, hunh?

    Comment by Kalinda Williams — May 7, 2010 @ 11:24 am

37. 

    Hello, I would actually love to travel the world and dont have a travel buddy! I noticed that you have entered a blog entry since last year! Please update because as an African-American myself I am glad that one of “us” is venturing out to the world! Hope to speak to you soon! My email address is mochashopper@yahoo.com. Thanks

    Comment by Dell — August 4, 2010 @ 8:07 pm

38. 

    Hi, Bobby. I’m a college senior planning a trip to Europe next summer. I simply searched “American in Europe” and I found this, which was so specific to me, I couldn’t believe it! I saw the title and thought, “omg..me too!!” haha It’s nice to read someone else’s experiences delivered in such a candid way. I’ve heard some of the same things about Europe and can’t wait to live it myself. I’m doing five countries in four weeks. I’ve waited long enough (apparently, it’s now standard to ‘do Europe’ in college. I’m a bit late I guess. I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to put this all together and share it with the world. You’ve inspired me to do the same when I get back Thanks again!

    PS: You sound like you’d like more of a NYC guy than Seattle. I’m just sayin…

    Comment by Charlyn — September 3, 2010 @ 4:08 pm

39. 

    Just found your website while browsing and I am so impressed. 25 years ago in college in the USA my black-american friend couldn’t believe I was going to a village in PA for the weekend, a village with no black people. Being black-caribbean it wasn’t a big deal to me, but I realised how black-americans thinking were limited. It affected me so much I was afraid to bring up a black child in the USA, for fear of him feeling limited. So I am extremely happy to see this evolution of a black male in America. I am living in Europe now and hope to keep seeing more of the world.

    Comment by Ann — September 21, 2010 @ 5:01 am

40. 

    Hey Bobby, Glad to hear that you are enjoying your travels. I was stationed in Germany in the 80′s and more than likely, the guys that raved about the women over there to you, were probably there during this time period or earlier. A lot has changed since then, but I still would encourage other young Black American males to travel to Europe. And not just for the clubs, booze, and women. Fortunately,the internet and other global media outlets, provide people outside of the US a more broader perspective of the black experience in America. That explains why the women over there, aren’t anymore receptive than they are here. All that information has taken away all the mystery of black man. LOL! Back then being in service didn’t hurt either. Anyway, continue to enjoy all the world has to offer, while you can. Once the wife, kids, and mortgage comes along…. It’s over! Peace.

    Comment by Jerry — October 5, 2010 @ 12:53 pm

41. 

    Hello Bobby

    My son is 25 years of age. college grad and always wanted to travel abroad and experience the world, Gods gift to mankind to take care of and see. He’s a fantastic human being, everyone just loves him, salt of the earth.

    Did you just do it: saved, planned, had any travel agent help you? A concerned mom who wants to let him go (my daughter also).

    Comment by Roxanne — October 8, 2010 @ 1:46 pm

42. 

    Hey Bob!
    I’m not black, still I was wondering if there is such a thing as travelling guides for black people, one second before I found your website! Funny.
    Well, I like your project.
    Travelling is the first best thing to open your eyes towards the world, I know it from my own experience.
    In Europe, school exchange programs were initiated to immunize people to dumb propaganda which aims at telling them all people in some other country are evil.

    Cheers from Europe

    Comment by Otto — November 18, 2010 @ 1:44 am

43. 

    Hey Roxanne,

    Thanks for the reply. It was always a dream of mine to travel around the world. I always wanted to be the ‘Black Indiana Jones’. So when I was the position where I could financially save the money to take a big trip that’s just what I decided to do. It took me about 2 years to save then I just did it. My mother had the same concerns about me traveling the world alone. One of the reasons that I built this site was to reassure people that the world is not such a scary place. Your son will be okay, just have faith.

    Comment by admin — November 29, 2010 @ 10:25 am

44. 

    Hey Jerry,

    Thanks for your insight! You really put things in perspective. Nevertheless I did have a good time over there and wouldn’t trade it for anything

    Comment by admin — November 29, 2010 @ 10:27 am

45. 

    Hey Charlyn,

    Well I’m actually originally from the DC area. I’ve been here in Seattle for about 8 years. I definitely can’t say that I’m completely acclimated to the Pacific Northwest environment. Keep in touch and let me know regarding your travels

    Comment by admin — November 29, 2010 @ 10:42 am

46. 

    Bobby, the interesting thing is the world is always talking about how the US is the world’s most racist nation (apparently you agree), yet you gallivant around the world trying to educate us “ignorant” Americans that the world isn’t such a mean place, after all. Shouldn’t you be doing the opposite, standing up for your country, trying to argue that the US isn’t the world’s most racist nation? I always find it ironic that if the US is as horrible for minorities as so many insist, then how is it so many black Americans can afford to vacation in europe? What’s the obsession with defending europe? Is it some kind of aristocratic elitism?

    Comment by Mario — February 10, 2011 @ 11:01 am

47. 

    BTW, I would like to ask: If you weren’t American, how do you think the Europeans would really treat you? Look at how they treat their immigrants, that might answer the question for you.
    Addios!

    Comment by Mario — February 10, 2011 @ 11:04 am

48. 

    Hey there, Mario.

    I never said that the US is the worlds most racist nation. Where in any of my posts did I say that? I absolutely love my country and wouldn’t trade it for anywhere in the world. I also love being a Black American. But just because I have love for my country and for my culture it doesn’t mean that I can’t criticize them. After all, don’t we criticize the ones that we love precisely because we love them? The main objective of this website was to share with the world the exploits of a young Black American traveling around the world solo. It was that information that I searched for but was unable to find anywhere on the internet that motivated me to create this site. I also don’t know many black Americans that really travel around the world. Not because they don’t have the means to do so but because of fear and hesitation. So I wanted to ease their tensions. I didn’t go out into the world looking for racism, I never do. I just wanted to be as honest as I possibly could and relay my experiences in an unbiased way. There was nothing on this website that I spoke of that wasn’t absolutely fact. It’s up to the audience to decide whether or not it was racism. But, nevertheless, I appreciate your opinion. Hope you enjoyed the site.

    Comment by admin — February 14, 2011 @ 8:53 am

49. 

    Well, most of the places that I visited I was treated as if I weren’t American. When I went to London, I was treated as a Londoner. In Amsterdam, I truly believe they assumed I was an African immigrant. In Egypt, I had several people call me Egyptian. I think it has a lot to do with the fact that my features aren’t very African-American looking. Even here in my own country I have people wondering if i’m from here or not. So to tell you the truth, the way I was treated in Europe was probably the same way that they treat their immigrants. That’s not to say that I was treated very badly tho. I didn’t have anyone spit in my face or call me a racial slur. But they also didn’t lay out the red carpet either.

    Comment by admin — February 14, 2011 @ 8:58 am

50. 

    So Mario, are you still traveling? I am also an American living in Italy and often I google trying to find other Americans who are in Europe. Your blog is very interesting. Ciao and be safe!

    Comment by De' — April 1, 2011 @ 6:26 am

51. 

    My brother. I just wanted to commend you on your site and your desire to explore europe as an african american
    man. And yes everyones experiences are different. Butvto be honest my man and i have been living in europe for 3 yrs not as a tourist but have lived at least 3 months throughout both western and eastern europe and i have to beg to differ. European women by no shape or form are like american women. Culturally different. The way they live life on bare minimums compared to women invthe states and still know how to have fun engage a sincere interest and looking for something different then their own kind. Trust me depending on your approachba black american man is a commodity in europe especially eastern europe. Primary markets and again based on me spending over 30 days where you will be overwhelmed and amazed at the opts you will have: belgrade serbia, sarejevo bosnia, budapest, vienna, prague, montenegro, berlin, warsaw poland, stockholm sweden as scandanavian mkt. The food in southern europe you have to try or ask someone where the domestic kitchens are ineach country. The food in europe is fresh unlike usa and in certain places you can drink the tap water. Hope this gives you better insight from someone who is black american living in europe. U have huge market appeal if u play your cards right. The key is be yourself and dont act like u are on a swag weekend just to get laid. The european girls are hip to that and will shut you down either with an over afressive approach or too passive of an approach. They will call you boring. They all love and know how to party long and hard so enjoy my man on your next trip

    Comment by sam — November 16, 2011 @ 2:34 pm

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