Chapter 1: My Origins and Inspirations

I’m thrilled to have you here.

My journey into the world of travel began early on. Growing up as a child of a U.S. Army serviceman in Daegu, South Korea, during my elementary school years, I had the opportunity to explore a vibrant culture. We kids would often venture off-base to buy candy and fireworks, enjoying the affordability of local goods.

By the time we moved back to Virginia, my family had already lived in several states, including Washington, New Jersey, and Kansas. After high school, I attended Clemson University in South Carolina, pursuing a degree in wildlife biology. My passion for nature led me to a decade-long career in conservation, with experiences spanning Slovakia, Kentucky, California, and South Carolina.

In my professional journey, I focused on endangered species and population research. My initial role after college was with the U.S. Peace Corps as a Parks Planning and Environmental Consultant, where I spent two years in Slovakia—one in Malacky and another in Bratislava. During my first year, I worked within the Zahorie Protected Area, and in the second year, I collaborated with the Daphne Institute for Applied Ecology.

It was during my tenure in Slovakia, over two decades ago, that I first encountered the concept of ecotourism. A colleague's wife was involved with the Daphne Institute, and they contemplated launching ecotourism initiatives. Curious about this new idea, I inquired, "What is ecotourism?"

Initially, I identified as a pure applied scientist, uninterested in social sciences or community engagement. However, upon researching, I recognized the potential of ecotourism as a conservation strategy. I contributed to various projects, leading bicycle tours along the Morava River Floodplain while educating participants about wetland ecosystems and their biodiversity.

My time in Slovakia also offered the advantage of easy travel to neighboring countries. I explored numerous destinations, including Poland, the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia.

Following my Peace Corps experience, I pursued graduate studies, focusing on ecotourism in Belize. I spent a month in the jungle near Five Blues Lake National Park, investigating community co-management strategies and the balance between ecotourism and resource use restrictions. It was an adventure, and I faced life-threatening situations on two occasions.

Throughout my career, I straddled the worlds of ecology and tourism. After Belize, I moved to California, where I tracked desert tortoises in the Mojave Desert. My role involved verifying the locations of radio transmitters attached to these endangered reptiles, ensuring that U.S. Army training activities didn’t harm them.

Eventually, I grew weary of early morning treks through dense woods and sought a shift to academia. This path led me to South Carolina, where I took an adjunct teaching position at the state's only technical college offering an Associate's Degree in natural resources. I discovered a genuine passion for teaching and research while working with students.

In 2007, I returned to Clemson University to obtain my Ph.D. in Tourism Management. My dissertation research on community-based tourism in Dominica allowed me to explore the island for two months, an experience I thoroughly enjoyed. Now, as a full-time professor of tourism management, I have traveled to numerous countries and destinations, continually inspired by my students.

Here are some of my tales for you to explore…

Once Upon A Time in the Mojave Desert

A visual journey through the desert landscapes.

Snowstorms, Snowmobiles, and Scallops: A Collection of Memories from Maine

Captured while driving from Bangor to Machias.

Bánh Gai: A Unique Vietnamese Dessert

A glimpse into the culinary delights of Vietnam.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

Exploring the wonders of the Trembling Earth.

Sandy Lies (or Alibis) on Condado Beach, Puerto Rico

Documenting a day spent writing and researching from my hotel to the beach.

Dominica: The Nature Island

Adventures of backpacking and hitchhiking around this beautiful island.

Ecuador: A Tsáchila Village and an Achiote Ceremony

Reflections on an early morning awakening during my travels.

In the first video, "Life is Short, Travel Now," Jared Kamrowski shares compelling insights on the importance of travel and making the most of life's fleeting moments.

The second video, "How to Travel the World with Almost No Money," by Tomislav Perko, offers valuable tips for budget travel, encouraging exploration without financial burdens.