Who I am

Hi! I’m Griz, a die-hard solo traveler who got the travel bug while spending a semester abroad in London during college. So far, I’ve taught English in Japan and Spain, gotten a graduate degree in Australia, and worked in Italy, Portugal, France, and Malta. Along the way, I’ve learned to swear in five languages, surfed in Portugal, Ireland, and England, and helped break the Guinness World Record for group flamenco dancing in Spain. I also got slapped by a nun in Assisi, but you’ll have to get to know me before I tell you how that came about.

Where I’ve been

My solo travels began with a five-month trek around Australia and I never had a truly bad day.  Years later, on a return trip to Australia, I decided to quit my desk job and get out and see more of the world. The result was an 8 1/2 month trek through Central and South America where I got to surf, hike, and explore whenever I wanted to. In 2012, the sudden death of a close friend shook me up and forced me to reassess what I was doing and where I was going. The result was that I switched from being a full-time employee to an independent contractor and moved back to Europe, where I’d been so happy in the past.

Why I write

I’ve created On The Go Solo as a way to share the hard-won knowledge and tricks I’ve gained in my travels. I spent a total of 8 years working in a cubicle in Silicon Valley, so I know what it feels like to be stuck in a claustrophobic, stultifying rut. Frustrated and bored out of your mind, but lacking the energy to make a change and take a chance. I’m hoping the information in my blog posts might inspire someone to do what I did. To say, “What do I have to lose if I just walk away?” and then do it.

I’d love to hear from you if you’re currently traveling solo or are dreaming and planning for the time when you’ll be able to set off on your own adventure. My journey hasn’t always been easy, but I can say unequivocally that it’s been worth it.

Use the Contact Me form below if you want to get in touch privately or let everyone know who you are by leaving a comment in the COMMENT field at the bottom of the page.

May all your travels be memorable!
Brian