Hi Carmen – four days. The key to affordability, I think, is getting the cheap flight, staying in a hostel and cooking for yourself. Having said that, there was a simple little hotel near the hostel in Abisko that was relatively affordable if you wanted a bit more ‘luxury’!
Just finished reading The Wrong Way Home. I enjoyed every page. It is something I always wanted to do when I was younger but because of circumstances never did. Will endeavour to read your other books if they are are available.
Just finished “Vroom with a View”. Great story, I’m in Vernazza just now, returning to LHR on Sunday then home to Vancouver Island on the 26th. Throughly enjoyed your adventures with Sally on Sophia. Is she in Australia?
Wondering what happened to lovely Sally.
I’m a road trip guy usually in my 2002 GMC pickup with small wood camper, home built, and plan another major one this winter, returning to Mexico ??, East side this time.
Looking forward to reading “The Full Montezuma” over the next while,
Thanks Gary. Glad to hear you enjoyed my books. Never knew there was a red Kinder Surprise Vespa. I only got the green one. Send the pic and I’ll whack it up here in the comments.
My name is Eugene. I’m from South Africa. I think your way of writing is awesome.
I never was never really into reading and one day I picked up The Wrong Way Home, great book. Then I got myself a copy of The Full Montezuma and Vroom With A View.
I week ago I ordered Swahili For The Broken-Hearted. Just finished it. I think they all great, just one problem. I think you under judged South Africa. You weren’t even in most of the city or you just past by. I stay in Nelspruit. There is lots of site viewing to see outside Nelspruit, I stay on a farm deep in the bushes with mountains surrounding me.
But keep up the books, can’t wait to get a copy of Vroom By The Sea.
Thanks for your comment. I was really pleased to hear that my books got you back into reading.
Re: South Africa. That’s a very valid point. I was just passing through. And my opinions were very much influenced by the people I met and the places I went. I hope you didn’t get the impression that I didn’t like South Africa. In many ways it reminded of Australia. And your place near Nelspruit sounds like paradise.
When I passed through, which is a while ago now, there was some underlying tensions bubbling away. And then when I went into Zimbabwe, with all its problems, it struck me that that was what could happen to South Africa too.
It hasn’t, thankfully. And from what I can see from afar, even some of the rougher parts of Jo’burg have been transformed. I’ll just have to get back out there and check it out for myself. I’ve always wanted to do a big trip down the west coast of Africa, finishing in Cape Town. Maybe I should swing by and check out the delights of Nelspruit when I do!
Just finished ‘The Wrong Way Home’ – 20 years late, I know – but I loved it. Inspires me to go explore places like East Timor and the other interesting, off the beaten path places you describe.
BTW: Kosovo is on my list after reading your review on it !!
Hi Pete, slowly making my way through your books and love them. I have travelled through many of the countries you have written about and the nostalgia makes me emotional in a good way.
I was in London between 90 and 93. The photos of your younger self seem strangely familiar. I was one of the boofhead Aussies
in London you describe in your books. We may have met.
Ha ha. A fellow boof head! I’m sure we did probably run into each other. It was a pretty insular world. Maybe at Dixies in Clapham Junction. The Church. Any number of Aussie pubs or parties at Antipodean households. God, they were good times!
Great stuff, I’m eagerly awaiting the next chapter. I’m going stir crazy with this coronavirus work from home stuff and no travel on the horizon! I hope you and your family are safe and healthy.
I know what you mean. I’ve had three trips cancelled this year already and I’m climbing the walls.
With that in mind I’m finally getting around to making Apple iBook versions of my books as well as Kindle versions of The Full Montezuma and NSITT.(All the others are already available as Kindle books only).
Coupled with Going Around In Circles, it’s all part of of ‘Travel in the time of Coronavirus’ survival pack, to keep people travelling, even when they can’t!
Hi Peter – I had speculated that it was possible to do a self-contained family campervan tour of NZ while “self-isolating” if you’d arrived from overseas before midnight last night. With a mix of campground operator assistance, supermarket food delivery and app based fuel purchases you’d still be able to do day walks, bike rides and enjoy the great outdoors and spectacular scenery. Anyway, that option is gone now so you’re down to armchair travel via your laptop or tv.
Our 22 yr old Aussie son is driving around USA in what looks like a delivery van (great for parking in loading zones when cities had traffic). He’s got his surfboard and pulls up at vacant land near beautiful beaches in Florida now and just surfs and eats take away and oatmeal.
He’s decided to wait it out and has his best mate travelling too so he’s not alone. Mate has pizza making skills so if things get tough, maybe Domino’s might give them a job making and delivering!? (Buckley’s chance of getting a Green Card though!).
Yes, he will be there beyond the 90 day USA visa but he’s hoping Trump will induce the Aussie Mates rates in this instance. Have you got any tips for him?
That’s a tricky one. I’m not an expert on these matters by any means.
If I had my parent hat on, I’d tell him to follow the Aussie government’s advice and come home. But if I was 22 years old again and in his position I’d be tempted to ride out this pandemic in the back of my van too, surfing and eating pizza every day.
The only thing I would say is that his pushing his luck with the visa. In developing countries you can slip a few bucks to the right official and these things will be overlooked. In America, I suspect they’ll put him in detention. And I wouldn’t be counting on mate’s rates with Trump. The key is in his motto, ‘America First.’
Then there’s the stratospheric costs of health care in the States. Any kind of treatment can run into hundred of thousands of dollars. Even if he doesn’t get coronavirus, he might break his leg or similar. And if he’s overstayed his visa, any travel insurance he may have will be null and void.
So, if he insists on staying the road, I’d suggest he get out of the States and head down to Mexico or Canada while he can. Health care is more affordable should he need it. More likely to get some kind of reciprocal health coverage with Canada. But the surfing will be better in Mexico!
Like I said, I’m no expert. Just some things to consider. My 22-year-old self would probably take the Mexico option. Cheaper living costs, lots of good surf breaks. He might just have to eat tacos rather than pizzas!
My wife and I are currently in southern Spain under “lockdown” and I’ve just discovered your books online.
As a retired travel agent (Thomas Cook for many years) but little experience of a package holiday ourselves, preferring to choose where we wander.
As someone with history of long distance walking in the UK and in Europe I have enjoyed many of the type of personal encounters which wrote about. Having ” found” you I guess your books are going to help keep me sane during the weeks ahead until we can return home.
A big thank you for a most fascinating trip though Central America and Jamaica + Cuba.
I am a Brit, but worked in Jamaica 1967 – 1972. I visited Guatemala + British Honduras ( now Belize) And also San Andres, Columbian Island off coast of Nicaragua.
I bought your book for AUD 0.50 from a junk shop at Mannum on the River Murray.
Your writing is so descriptive I felt as though I was there, didn’t need any pictures
Then wanted to tell a friend in Perth to read it so Googled your name and all these fab pictures came up.
Need to read it a second time Must get your other books.
Peter,
Just finished it a second time, love your way with words. One can feel the “tension ” with the GND, and laugh at the situation.
By the way there is a cure for sea sickness, An old RTW sailor taught me when we were sailing from Madeira to the Canaries. Put a lump of stem ginger in your mouth, but don’t chew it. Just let the ginger juices trickle into your stomach.
Not convinced I asked him does it really stop sea sickness ? His reply, well if it doesnt work, what comes up tastes and smells so much better than vomit ?
BTW, have so enjoyed the book have now recommended it to about 8 friends, who have asked “What you doing during the lock down?”
That 50 cents spent in the junk shop in Mannum was the best investment on my Murray river trip!
Thanks Keith – I will try the ginger trick next time I’m on the high seas. My mum always made us eat bananas when we were sick. Apparently they are the only thing that tastes the same going down as coming back up!
I have just finished your book ‘Vroom with a View’ (autographed copy I might add) that I picked up from a beautiful little town in Victoria called Lorne.
I can honestly say that your book has inspired my travel plans that I keep note in our ‘Nevill Destinations’ book.
The Italy entry has now had an expansion of locations that I may have never known to visit.
Thank you for your wonderful story that will assist with my planning in the future!!
I’m so glad you enjoyed Vroom. No sure being signed adds value or decreases it, but I’m happy to hear you’ve added some of my Italian ports of call to your post-COVID Wishlist.
I was just speaking to Filippo last night who told me that he’d got a letter from the government saying he could open his business again after it was shut down because of the virus. Hopefully that’s a sign that things are slowly getting back to normal in Italy (or as normal as can be expected) and I’ll be able to pop over and see my Italian friends (and my Vespas!) again.
Hi Peter , We live in NZ and have read all of your books . Your first book Vroom with a view inspired myself and my wife to buy a Vespa in 2011 , a GTS 300 . We have since done a tour of Tuscany on a rented Vespa plus various day trips around Umbria and Tuscany , and just completed 8 days around Puglia with another couple from NZ . We all loved it . Thanks so much for the inspiration.
Rod and Chris Downs
We met at Keith’s place in Maida Vale in London and I have some sad news. Keith died from cancer in September, back in Hobart. He went out in typical Keith’s way, gone but not forgotten
Yeah, sad news. I’d stayed in touch with Keith on Facebook – AKA Lew Skannen – and heard the news.
I put a little memorial on social media at the time, using a pic of him when we went into Afghanistan. I remember they all thought he was Russian, which pleased him immensely!
I have followed your career from day 1…I did an around the world trip in 98-99, starting in England passing through SE Asia, Oz, NZ, South Pacific – but then got stuck in Canada and emigrated here 2004.
I ‘check in’ every so often to see if you have anything, but knew that a family was busy times. I have all your books and eagerly await each one, so this is a real treat – especially now. Going to start chapter 1 now!!!
Hope things are going well in Canada. You’re right about having a family putting a brake on things. My daughter is now older enough to start ignoring me, hence why I’m back on the travel wagon. Shame COVID-19 came along to stymie things for a while still.
I am re-reading your original book version of NSITT for the umpteenth time (during lockdown) and there are some comments that still make me laugh out loud.
Having travelled to a number of the places that you mention, at an even earlier time than you were there, there are some realities which do not change including border crossings, the state of the toilets and the state of the accommodation!
Perhaps it is why NSITT resonates so well.
Thank you for putting together such an interesting set of instructions and traveller’s tales!
Thanks Dianne. Glad to hear that NSITT still rings true. I’m just putting together an eBook version and, I must admit, I was a little concerned that it might be a little date. But apart from the obvious things like music cassettes and Internet cafes, it’s pretty clear that the ‘fundamentals’ of travel are still the same!
I have finished reading your book ‘Vroom with a View’. I enjoyed every minute of it. I like your style of writing as it is simple and light but with a lot of details information.
I know Vespas very well as they were the means of transport in my youth. There was also another popular scooter, the Lambretta, which was also popular at that time.
I have lived in Melbourne for the last 34 years but I originally hail from Malta, which is small island in the Mediterranean about 60 miles away from Sicily. Being so close to Italy, although a British colony until 1974, Malta had a lot of Italian influence and the motor scooter and the Fiat 500 were two of them.
I hope you managed to bring Sophia to Australia and that you married Sally and probably have a few kids.
I am looking forward to read another of your books.
Really pleased to hear you enjoyed ‘Vroom with a View’ and that it reminded you of your youth in Malta. I was in Malta a couple of years ago and loved it. I stayed in an old place in Silema, and shuttled back and forth across the harbour to Valetta on the dgħajsa. Brilliant.
I also had a bit of a wander around the rest of the island too and loved it. Didn’t get the chance to get across to Goza, so will definitely have to get back there as soon as this whole Coronavirus thing is over.
Thanks for your message. Glad to hear you enjoyed Vroom. Always means a lot from a fellow Vespista! Hope you’ve been enjoying a few lockdown rides in Malvern, if only to test your eyesight!
Hi Peter,
I have just completed both Vrooms and I thought it would be remiss of me not to say how much I enjoyed both tales of adventure.
I have been travelling to Italy every year for the past 16 years but unfortunately I had to cancel my Easter and Summer trips due to the recent Covid 19 crisis.
Your Italian memoirs on your Vespa are the exact same reasons of why I fell in love with the country and they have provided me with sunshine and laughter during one of the most difficult times we have ever experienced globally.
I found your narratives and concept of exploration extremely motivating and as a result I’m going to purchase a brand new Ferrari red Vespa GTS 125 with matching top box, a dream of mine for years.
Next summer I plan to travel on the Hull to IJmuiden ferry, scoot past Amsterdam to Dusseldorf, jump on the Motorail all the way to Verona. From there I hope to survey Lake Garda and the Dolomites.
The reason I state this is because you have provided me through your writings with the stimulus to ‘make it happen’, for this I thank you kind sir.
By the way, why don’t you go for the Vespa trilogy, Vroom around the Lakes!!!!
Thanks so much for your message. I really pleased to hear you enjoyed my ‘Vroom’ books. Even more so that they’ve motivated you to have your very own Italian Vespa adventure. I love it when that happens!
I also like your idea fro the trilogy. I haven’t seen much of the north.
Now … just got to convince the wife about buying another Vespa …
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed re-reading your books lately. There is one that I have never been able to track down – “Same Same, But Different”, which Wikipedia claims was written in 2006 and published as an eBook.
Wikipedia claims a lot of things, but I presume there must be some truth to this. Google, which also claims a lot of things, seems to think it was about a ten day ride on a Vespa through the Mekong Delta. If so then I’d love to know more, and ideally read it.
I’m not sure who wrote my Wikipedia entry – it just kind of appeared – but they are correct. There was an eBook version of a little Vespa trip I did around the Mekong Delta. I used to give it away for free, but after Amazon started their Kindle Unlimited program they cracked down on that and pretty much insist that you have to sell eBooks for at least 99p/99c or join up to their scheme.
Long story short, I took it down off Amazon. But I’m currently working on a new eBook version, with photos, so I can feel justified within myself charging something.
Keep an eye on the site for news. I’ve also taken a note of your email, so I’ll also let you know directly when it’s done.
Is there anywhere I can buy the book Vroom by the Sea? Vroom with a View is by far my favourite book. It Brought back many memories of my days with a Vespasian. Superb.
It’s a tricky one to track down. It’s out of print in the UK, but I think you can still get it in Australia. I know Fishpond.com.au are selling copies. And you can usually find secondhand copies on the various Amazons.
If you have a Kindle, it’s always available as an eBook. If you look on the page above you’ll see direct links to the various territories and a link to the Apple eBook version as well.
The Muttonbirds album Salty reminds my of my travels in New Zealand a brilliant kiwi band that were massive in NZ but a bit underground here in the UK but as good as Crowded House.
I love The Muttonbirds! I’ve got a copy of Salty in my storage unit back in Sydney. Thanks so much for reminding me of them. Just off to Spotify to have a listen now!
That’s great news, and I very much look forward to reading it. When you consider that 99p buys you less than half a cup of coffee in the U.K. (taking less than 5 minutes to drink), 99p for the escapism of reading about one of your adventures is an absolute bargain – with or without photos. I love viewing the photographs on your website in conjunction with re-reading your other books anyway.
Thanks for your comment. I left London in April 1994 to do that trip. Quite a while ago now and I know Albania is in a much better state than it was then. Having said that, the Albanians were incredibly hospitable, despite the conditions they found themselves in and it remains one of my favourites of all the places I visited.
Thanks Richard. I must admit to thinking about my grandfather too. There’s been a lot about the war in Burma here in the UK and his plane was shot down during a bombing raid to support the Chingdits.
Just finished TFM. Really enjoyed it and as other people have said you have a brilliant way with words and make the reader feel as though they know a town or city even if they haven’t visited the place.
I really hope that you and the GND are still together and I guess it must be over 20 years ago that you made the trip.
Thanks for your message. Glad to hear you enjoyed ‘The Full Montezuma.’
If you’ve got hold of ‘Swahili for the Broken-Hearted’ you’ll know that the GND didn’t last. Travelling together is usually a ‘make-or-break’ scenario for relationships and so it was for us.
Not all is lost though. I have married and had a daughter since, so I’m not one of those sad blokes propping up a bar somewhere saying how much better everything was 20 years ago!
I have just about finished reading ‘Vroom’ for a third time. It gives me encouragement to get organised to fix my 1963 VNB 125cc (light blue) I bought in 1987 while at Uni in Wollongong.
I gave my last copy of the book away when I sold my other Vespa (1975 Rally 200) to someone in Melbourne on the mistaken memory that you rode around Italy on a Rally. Anyway, it was always the curves of the 125 that I preferred.
Sometime ago, I was reading your book “The Wrong Way Home” and at the end of the book you travel up the freeway to towards Liverpool NSW, “…past your old school…” and I’m thinking that’s got to be HAHS…I went there…who wrote this…Peter Moore…I know him…friend of my brother Mark. Small world. I enjoyed the references to life as a Westie.
The sale of the (rusty) Rally turned $150 (after 20 years of being used occasionally and in the way) into $3500 and bought me a BMW K100 ($1000). As you know “Way leads onto way…” and I have several BMs.
Still got the VNB, it is in bits in my Aladdin’s cave of a single car garage. It will ride again.
Best wishes to you, your family, Lesley-Ann.
Regards
Guy Francis
PS. Have a vague memory of you drinking some cocktail of whatever could be found in the kitchen at my parent’s place made by Al Woollard (?) and you jumping around to endure the torture. Think the payoff was $10 or less. Cheap bastard.
Just finished Vroom by the Sea. It took me back to our visits to Positano, Ravello and Sicily along with some destination ideas for our next trip to Italy. Previously read Vroom with a View, which I also enjoyed.
I read NSITT sometime ago in Spain and really enjoyed it. I’ve just finished TFM and loved it. I spent some time in Jamaica and that section made me chuckle. I’m now up for your take on Italy and Africa.
I know that you are married with kid (s) but I’m left wondering whatever happened to the GND eventually?
Great to stumble across your blog and this article. I see you have a very interesting editorial style. Brief, yet informative enough text, accompanied by a photo that usually indeed speaks a thousand words. Lovely read!
Thanks. Didn’t realise I had a particular editorial style, but you’re right. Travel to me is about sharing stories and inspiring people to go and experience the world and get their own stories to tell!
I was told about bull racing in Indonesia when in Bali, or more precisely Nusa Lembongan.
I’ve felt very attracted to spending some time travelling in remote areas of otherwise exposed tourist spots. Guess COVID has a different ideas and I’ll have wait for that.
Awesome post again! I’m your new reader! Was looking exactly for something like that and am glad I found it.
The bull races are quite a spectacle. They’re held all across Madura, but I reckon the ones in the small villages are the best. The whole community comes out and it is quite the occasion.
And re: travelling to less exposed tourist spots, I highly recommend it. You might not get to see as many world famous ‘sights’ but it is so much easier to meet people and have a more authentic local experience.
Another awesome read. I got totally stuck on your blog. Amazing stuff and especially because I’m currently based in Malaysia and know EXACTLY what you mean by people not having the slightest idea of what you are talking about yet giving the impression it’s all crystal clear to them.
Malaysian’s are not so good as Indonesians, as they usually give a blank stare at some point, but Indonesians take it to the next level. Impressive lol. I’m laughing at some of my stories too.
BTW, I’m confused, do you have an instagram account or not? Sorry if I was supposed to get a joke but didn’t… Thought the link meant to take me to your account…
Thanks for that! I guess the best advice I can give for travelling solo is to expect the unexpected and to just go with the flow. Oh, and trust your gut. If you feel something isn’t quite right, it probably isn’t.
Having said that, travelling on your own is the quickest and easiest way to meet people and truly experience a country.
I almost saw myself in your shoes because that routine looks so good to me. Not only do I love beer, but finding a beer spot is always a joy on any trip.
Though, I think the best part is giving the bottles to the kiddos.
Guess simplicity is just as powerful as an act of kindness purely inspired by it.
I too have just finished your book. It brought back memories of back packing in China in 1990. You made me remember the frustration of trying to arrange anything there in those days. Days there were either very hard or very rewarding.
Glad you enjoyed ‘The Wrong Way Home’ and that it brought back memories of your time in China. It was a struggle back then, but of course that’s what made it such a great adventure. With the benefit of hindsight – and enough water under the bridge – I always remember the hard times as the best times!
Hello! Many years ago you put out a message asking for places to stay. I got in touch and said me and two mates had recreated your African trip. We were arranging a visit in Barnsley, UK. I abruptly changed jobs, lost me email address and we never arranged a meet up.
Years after that I became friends with a guy called James Druce, who I believe you stayed with at some point. You gave him a set of signed books. I’m requesting my set now ???. Just kidding. It was a shame we missed you, I’m sure we’d all have had many tales of Africa to share a drink over!! Hope you’re well mate, and can get travelling again soon. All the best.
You are very kind and a good influence. I might bring all of my empty bottles and sell them and then give them to those who are in need. This is a very good post, thank you for sharing this
Bangkok-Calcutta (by air) and then on to Darjeeling – Kathmandu – Delhi – Leh – Delhi – Ajmer -Bombay – Goa – Kerala – Land End. All around Sri Lanka. Bangkok (by air) then Singapore – Bali- Sydney (by air).
When was it? Do you remember which day of the week runs the train from Wadi Halfa to Khartoum (and back)? Was it pleasant or should I rather a bus?
Thank you for your help.
I look forward to reading your book!
It was a while ago now. Back in the early 2000s. So can’t remember what day it ran (it was once a week back then) I’ve heard mixed news about the train – either that it’s stopped running or they’ve replaced the tracks and it’s going again.
When I did the trip, the train was more reliable than buses, but I wouldn’t say it was pleasant. Whenever the train got over 20 ks and hour it kicked up dust that then filled the carriage and made it difficult to breathe. It was an adventure though, and is that what it’s all about?
Anyway, thanks for getting in touch. Hope you have your very own Sudanese train adventure very soo!
Just finished your book Peter at 4 am! What happened to the GND? Looking at your pictures it looks like she was more than happy. You have rather pulled me up about taking a girl with me on a trip round Canada though. Less hassle on your own. Gonna get “Swahili” next as a follow up. That’s three books of yours I’ve bought so if I don’t get a mention here…they may be the last!
Hi Peter. Just read Vroom with a View and thought it was bloody great. I too am a scooterist with a couple of Vespas and not having any scooter rallies to attend in 2020 was hard but your trip helped during our long winter nights to add a bit of sunshine. Gonna read Vroom by the Sea next. If you get down to Devon look us up and I’ll lend you a scoot. Cheers
Hi Dave – glad to hear you enjoyed Vroom. Means a lot coming from a fellow Vespa owner. Devon is a pretty nice part of the world. I may well just take you up on your offer!
At the start of chapter 10 – Nkhata Bay, Malawi – second paragraph you have put the wrong name of President Banda – it is Hastings Kamuzu Banda, not Zazuma you have the wrong middle name. Sorry.
Don’t be sorry! Your correction is very much appreciated and probably something my editor should have picked up!
I’m in control of the eBook version, so I’ll make that correction right now. I’ll also forward your message to my publishers. Hopefully they can correct it for the next reprint.
Hi
I worked at the hotel in the mid 1980s.
I worked for Yugotours as a resident entertainer,I have such fond memories of the place and people ,be nice to chat some time
Hallo
Meine Mama hat auch im 1980 dort gearbeitet. In der Küche gibt es Leute die dort leben die in dem Zeitraum dort gearbeitet haben. Ich möchte dieses Jahr dort hin fahren eine kleine Überraschung zum 60. Geburtstag
Kennst du jemanden mit sie sich unterhalten könnte über die alten zeiten und was mit dem Hotel pasiert ist. Gruss Sonja
I feel something special about you, unlike most other travel bloggers and enthusiasts.
You seek and find beauty in small, simple things that don’t need to look spectacular or trendy. That makes me feel happy by its nature even though we don’t know each other.
Just read this now and despite seeing all the posts on Instagram I lolled hard. What a read! I mean… Yet again you totally dragged me in your mini though super poignant stories. Each of them is so wonderfully written that I feel like I want to be reading them again and again. But quite honestly it’d be awesome if we could have a chat in person over a beer and I’d coax all the juicy details from you. And as a Czech I can’t but finish by saying ‘Fuck the army’!!!
Read Vroom with a View – loved it! I’m still riding Lambrettas at 71. We went over the Alps on one when I was 67.
Then I discovered The Wrong Way Home. It brought back lots of memories of backpacking in the past. Funny book but well written, will look out for more of yours,
I’ve just finished your book after picking it up in a hostel in San Cristobal! Thank you so much for making me laugh, especially as I’m travelling around similar parts with my boyfriend. I laugh as I see us in both of you – even yesterday the debate me and my boyfriend had about going to a cenote, him wanting the more rustic, free route in (with me in flip flops), and me wanting to just pay the tiny entry free for a much easier day! After being ankle deep in mud, my boyfriend finally relented and we paid the entrance fee!
You both travelled to these parts over 20 years ago, what a completely different travel experience you had without the internet at your fingertips…..and without the Instagram generation. You were both so adventurous and brave to travel like you did. Hats off to you.
Thanks once again for a fantastic book….and the photos to check out after made me smile!
Thanks so much for your kind comments. Always pleased to hear that my book rang true with your experiences. It takes a certain kind of bravery – some would say stupidity – to travel with a partner!
I know what you mean about the internet changing things, but in my own travels since I’ve been pleased to see that somethings never change. Meeting people and experiencing, just for a moment, their lives is still as rewarding and exciting as it always was. It’s just a little more difficult to just rock up and expect to find a room or get a bus ticket than it used to be.
Again, thanks for taking the time to comment. It was very much appreciated!
Loved the book. I’m fascinated by the Italians. They are the foundation of the west—no doubt most things we do were set in motion 2000 years ago there. Good job on the book!
The last (only) cricket match I watched was on a sunny Sunday afternoon on Alderney, it was between two of the local pub teams. To avoid any risk of spillage the wicket keeper stood his pint glass of beer behind the middle stump :). The bowler didn’t seem to take offence.
We stayed in the building when it was a hotel in about 1976 or 77. Its a shame to see that it has fallen into disrepair. It is in a magical location, we had a wonderful time there. We travelled with Yugotours, the country was still Yougoslavia at the time. I hope it gets turned back into a hotel at some point, its a shame it lays empty and unloved.
There are plans to redevelop, apparently. They just need to sort things out with the monks. Like you said, it would be a shame for such a magical location to got to waste.
We stayed there for 10 days in 1988 when Yugoslavia was so inexpensive it was difficult to spend your money. Sad to see it disused, we had a really nice time there, we were a young family with a 2 year old and Bol was magical.
It is sad to see the place abandoned, but I hear there are plans to resurrect it. Bol itself, however, remains just as magical. A little more developed than when you visited, I suspect, but I visited out of season and it was very chilled.
I have read both your Vroom books and enjoyed reading about Italy’s culture and your informative observation on the people you met on your travels. Of course the two scooters have piqued my interest and in fact I have an Agrati Capri scooter which is just as Italian as the Vespa and Lambretta. Great photos of your scooter and scenery. Will you be doing another Vroom book?
Loved “The Wrong Way Home”. I hope your readers’ admiration still puts a smile on your face, nearly 30 years after your trip. As a new reader, I revelled in your words and observations. It was picked it up in a charity shop because I wanna go to Iran on my motorcycle.
After an arduous (and badly planned) dash to the south of Spain in 2018, a mere hop in comparison to your epic journey (7000 miles in three weeks there and back with two weeks stationary in Spain), I’m doing what I can to increase my strength, flexibility and endurance because the desire is strong. I’m roughly the same age as you.
My first proper adventure was to Utrecht in The Netherlands when I was 17 in 78 to visit a Dutch girl I’d met in France two years earlier on a family holiday. The bike then was a 200cc Yamaha. About a month after I passed my test. Travel has been part of me ever since.
I’m writing a novel about an Iranian boy and his life being brought up in a terrorist training camp. During the research for it, I came across details of Babak castle in the north of Iran not too far from the Azerbaijan border. The now grown boy travels out of Iran for the first time in his life, via the dam over the Aras river on the border, avoiding border crossings.
The calling is to see the castle built by Babak Khorramdin and the dam and the two bridges built centuries ago nearby. Meeting real people in Iran is foremost in my heart.
So thank you for further inspiration. It is very well received and simply encourages me that visiting Iran is now my destiny.
I hope I haven’t taken up too much of your time but I had to let you know how much I enjoyed your book. Funny, entertaining and informative.
Looks like I’ll have to read the one detailing your adventures on a scooter too.
Travel well.
(The email is valid, but don’t tell anyone) 😉
Thanks for your message! Always happy to hear from readers, especially if they enjoyed my books. Never gets old!
Your trip to Iran sounds amazing. It is easily one of my favourite places I’ve visited. The people there are pathologically hospitable and a remind that it’s dangerous to equate the government of a place and its people. You certainly won’t have any problems meeting real people, that’s for sure. And they’ll helpfully point out the government guys following you as well! 🙂
Again, thanks for taking the time to comment. I really appreciate it. and good luck with your travels and your book.
Just reread The Full Montezuma after sorting out various old books. Last time must have been 20 years ago. Took me right back to travelling around Mexico in 2001 and various other trips. Travelling was different then before the mobile Internet… Much more spontaneous and you never knew what was in store!
Glad to see from the other comments that life has worked out well.
Just finished the book ‘Vroom By The Sea’. Loved it. Am off to spend six months inItaly and walk the Francigena from Lucca to Rome. Next year I would like to do a Vespa trip. My son lives in Italy. I taught him Italian. I live in New Zealand so might not have been the smartest idea. It appears there was a girl in Italy for whom only an Italian speaking Antipodean would do. Go figure.
Thanks for sharing your adventures.
Thanks for your message. I crossed the Via Francigena a couple of times as I headed south from Milan to Rome in my first Vespa book, ‘Vroom with a View’. The Via Francigena goes through some stunning countryside. And plenty of suitable ‘refreshment’ stops too!
Your son has done well to get himself an Italian girlfriend. I wouldn’t regard Italian with an Antipodean burr – Aussie or Kiwi – as particularly romantic sounding. Not like when Italians or the French speak English, for example. But look on the bright side. You now got the excuse to spend a lot more time in Italy. And you’ve got somewhere free to stay!
Seriously though, thanks for your kind words about Vroom. It is much appreciated. I hope you have an equally great time in Italy on your upcoming adventures.
Hi Jock. Glad to hear you liked Vroom. Re:Lucca. Loved it. Stayed in two places. The hostel set in an old Monastery (Ostello San Frediano) when I was on my own. And at La Romea (https://www.laromea.com) when I was with Sally. Loved La Romea. It’s it a great spot and in a great old building.
Hi Peter I’m reading Vroom with a view. I’m on a cruise ship home to Sydney from New Zealand.
I’m studying Italian and so enjoying your adventures. Was excited to see your kinder surprise green vespa. I’m your vintage, just a couple of years older so relate to you. Thinking you may have convinced me to convince my husband for us to go back to Italy but to drive a car. We’re too old for a vespa. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed ‘Vroom’. And hopefully, I’ve convinced you and your husband to go back to Italy. Have a great time when you do. And thanks for your message. It was very much appreciated.
Hi Peter again just read a little more about you. 20 minutes from Liverpool station. Leppington or Hoxton Park. Lol I grew up on Hoxton Park Rd across from the BP. As I said before I. On a cruise ship and tonight I found a mini gold vespa and an Italian fuel pump on board.
I am restoring a Vespa 50 special now – someone who is helping with the project gave me your book, good read. Fun trip – I need to do a road trip myself but a 50 special maxes out at 30mph. Thanks for the book and the adventures. Inspiring
Hello Peter. I’ve read your book now probably 3 times over many years. It has meant a lot to me and had a quite effect during emotional times in my life. I think of now affection. Recently I’ve had the pleasure sending it as a gift to someone who I thought would just get it, and they have. That’s a special thing.
All the very best to you. Peter
Just finished reading Vroom With A View which was given to my husband for his 60th. Brilliant!! He just bought himself a 1961 Vespa yet to be named !!
He is the 3rd owner & we can’t wait for it to come back from the specialist Vespa mechanic to zip around & have coffee Sunday mornings at our local Cafe. We are hopefully heading back to Italy next year to see family in Crespano del Grappa north of Venice.
Thanks for the ride I felt like I was on the back of Sophia with my husband ?
Hi Peter,
Unlike your other readers, I wasn’t in an exotic and fareaway płace while reading your book. I spent days and night at the bedside of a family member in an old, igły and claustrophobic Hospital. Even the narów Windows ovelooking the Canadian prairies were covered with a film that dulled the Sun and blurred the view. I Łobez reading about your adventures. Your book was my window to the wider world.
There in 1987. Came from Hurghada, across to Sharm on a boat that got caught in a storm. Took 14 hours to make the crossing. I can still see the water sloshing about below decks! Seriously thought we’d never make it. Ended up in Dahab. Slept in the straw huts along the beach. There was an Aussie who owned a bar/cafe at the end of the beach. Lots and lots of black Sea Urchins. We also saw a decent sized shark….so stayed out of the water. All the local children were desperate for pens and pencils. Then a battered old taxi back to Cairo. Great times. Sad to see what it has become. But that is “progress”, apparently.
I have done the opposite and enjoyed Christmas in Australia. Brisbane to be exact. It was very odd having cold ham and salad with a Christmas tree flashing away. It felt very odd
Just finished this book and thoroughly enjoyed it. I also own a rally 200 and feel inspired to do a similar trip on it… I had already planned to ride my 1958 lambretta to the site of the old innocenti factory … but maybe something on the rally.
Thank you for sharing your experiences in this superbly written book.
Hey Peter,
Have read Full Montezuma and Wrong Way Home in last 12 months having found them in second hand bookshops on Souh Coast of NSW. Have enjoyed dipping into them immensely. Your writing invokes memories of my travels overseas. The eclectic mix of sheer thrills when experiencing something for the first time,, the rhythm of moving constantly from new places to places new and the simple joys of shared connections with others from different walks of life. Now onto Vroom View.
Hi Peter,
I have just finished reading Vroom With A View which I picked up second hand on a recent holiday in Bright, Victoria, in Australia.
My own trip through Tuscany in the late ‘80’s was in a then 18 year old beige VWCombi that like Sophia nearly always went but never quite properly. It was the best vehicle I ever owned. Your book brought back so many memories of my own travels.
I was born in ‘61 too so now am on the verge of having time to travel again after bringing up our family of 3 beautiful girls.
Reading your story has left me wondering how we should do it … there is definitely a charm and adventure of not following the crowds!
Thanks man … a great read I’ll look for you on a book shelf again soon. Great job.
Reading your book sitting on my own in my local bar in Shanghai. Just laughed out loud and simultaneously snotted into my beer. Tastes surprisingly ok.
Best book I’ve read in a long time.
Thank you
I think I was there about the same time as you. On the concrete floor in the hut. Snorkelled the blue hole with a leaky mask & no fins – I was the only one there. I remember the tent we all hung out at & the yummy banana pancakes!! I also remember watching (a pirated copy) of “Jessica Rabbit” that they played most nights on a screen/sheet they had rigged up in the tent for night entertainment. Those were the days….
Carmen
6 years agoMay I ask how many days did your spend on this trip?
Peter Moore
6 years agoHi Carmen – four days. The key to affordability, I think, is getting the cheap flight, staying in a hostel and cooking for yourself. Having said that, there was a simple little hotel near the hostel in Abisko that was relatively affordable if you wanted a bit more ‘luxury’!
Geoff Beder
5 years agoJust finished reading The Wrong Way Home. I enjoyed every page. It is something I always wanted to do when I was younger but because of circumstances never did. Will endeavour to read your other books if they are are available.
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks Geoff – glad to hear you enjoyed The Wrong Way Home. It was such a fantastic trip. I hope you enjoy the others too.
Cheers!
Roger Frost
5 years agoHey Peter
Just finished “Vroom with a View”. Great story, I’m in Vernazza just now, returning to LHR on Sunday then home to Vancouver Island on the 26th. Throughly enjoyed your adventures with Sally on Sophia. Is she in Australia?
Wondering what happened to lovely Sally.
I’m a road trip guy usually in my 2002 GMC pickup with small wood camper, home built, and plan another major one this winter, returning to Mexico ??, East side this time.
Looking forward to reading “The Full Montezuma” over the next while,
Cheers, safe travels.
Roger Frost
Peter Moore
5 years agoHi Roger,
Thanks for your comment! I hope you’re enjoying your time in Vernazza. Lovely town. Even if they wouldn’t let Sophia in!
Re: Sally. Yep, we’re still together. Married, living in London, with a daughter.
Re: Sophia. She lives in Livorno with Marco, in his new workshop/museum that is even more pristine than his first. I pop over occasionally to visit!
Have a great trip in Mexico.
Cheers
Peter
Mr J Kitchen
5 years agoI have just finished this great book for the second time and was about to send a letter.
The answers to most of my questions are above!
Buona fortuna a tutti.
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks Jack. I was glad to hear you enjoyed the book. I was also pleased that the web site was able to answer your questions!
Cheers
Peter
Gary Boon
5 years agoHi Peter,
Just read two of your books…the Vespa related 2!.. Bloody brilliant.
I went on eBay and got two Kinder Surprise scooters from Belgium…one green and one red. I’ll send you a pic.
All the best mate.
Kind regards
GARY.?
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks Gary. Glad to hear you enjoyed my books. Never knew there was a red Kinder Surprise Vespa. I only got the green one. Send the pic and I’ll whack it up here in the comments.
Cheers
Peter
Eugene Van Schalkwyk
5 years agoHi Peter,
My name is Eugene. I’m from South Africa. I think your way of writing is awesome.
I never was never really into reading and one day I picked up The Wrong Way Home, great book. Then I got myself a copy of The Full Montezuma and Vroom With A View.
I week ago I ordered Swahili For The Broken-Hearted. Just finished it. I think they all great, just one problem. I think you under judged South Africa. You weren’t even in most of the city or you just past by. I stay in Nelspruit. There is lots of site viewing to see outside Nelspruit, I stay on a farm deep in the bushes with mountains surrounding me.
But keep up the books, can’t wait to get a copy of Vroom By The Sea.
Peter Moore
5 years agoHi Eugene,
Thanks for your comment. I was really pleased to hear that my books got you back into reading.
Re: South Africa. That’s a very valid point. I was just passing through. And my opinions were very much influenced by the people I met and the places I went. I hope you didn’t get the impression that I didn’t like South Africa. In many ways it reminded of Australia. And your place near Nelspruit sounds like paradise.
When I passed through, which is a while ago now, there was some underlying tensions bubbling away. And then when I went into Zimbabwe, with all its problems, it struck me that that was what could happen to South Africa too.
It hasn’t, thankfully. And from what I can see from afar, even some of the rougher parts of Jo’burg have been transformed. I’ll just have to get back out there and check it out for myself. I’ve always wanted to do a big trip down the west coast of Africa, finishing in Cape Town. Maybe I should swing by and check out the delights of Nelspruit when I do!
Anyway, thanks again for your comment.
Cheers
Peter
Jonny Thomson
5 years agoSlick new content style, virtual high five Sir.
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks Jonny – I’d let things go to seed but I’m pretty pleased with how its has turned out!
Carolyn Handley
5 years agoI used to work for Australian Geographic many moons ago, I have seen that flag!
Peter Moore
5 years agoIt was quite a resonsibility carrying it. I thought I’d lost it a couple of times!
Samir Dave
5 years agoLove it and bookmarked already!
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks mate!
Bryce Scanlen
5 years agoEnjoyed chapter one. Looking forward to the next installment.
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks Bryce. Hope you and Fiona are well. Been a long time!
Bryce Scanlen
5 years agoWe’d love to catch up again next time you’re in Auckland. Bring the family too. BTW, I’m eagerly awaiting chapter 2 coming online…
Shuja
5 years agoHey Peter,
Just finished ‘The Wrong Way Home’ – 20 years late, I know – but I loved it. Inspires me to go explore places like East Timor and the other interesting, off the beaten path places you describe.
BTW: Kosovo is on my list after reading your review on it !!
Looking forward for more of your works
Stephen Jakubans
12 months agoHi Pete, slowly making my way through your books and love them. I have travelled through many of the countries you have written about and the nostalgia makes me emotional in a good way.
I was in London between 90 and 93. The photos of your younger self seem strangely familiar. I was one of the boofhead Aussies
in London you describe in your books. We may have met.
Still travelling.
All the best, I’ll check out your podcasts.
Peter Moore
12 months agoHey Steve,
Ha ha. A fellow boof head! I’m sure we did probably run into each other. It was a pretty insular world. Maybe at Dixies in Clapham Junction. The Church. Any number of Aussie pubs or parties at Antipodean households. God, they were good times!
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks Shuja. Glad you enjoyed the book. You should drop by Kosovo. And East Timor. Both great places …
James
5 years agoGreat stuff, I’m eagerly awaiting the next chapter. I’m going stir crazy with this coronavirus work from home stuff and no travel on the horizon! I hope you and your family are safe and healthy.
Peter Moore
5 years agoHi James,
I know what you mean. I’ve had three trips cancelled this year already and I’m climbing the walls.
With that in mind I’m finally getting around to making Apple iBook versions of my books as well as Kindle versions of The Full Montezuma and NSITT.(All the others are already available as Kindle books only).
Coupled with Going Around In Circles, it’s all part of of ‘Travel in the time of Coronavirus’ survival pack, to keep people travelling, even when they can’t!
Bryce
5 years agoHi Peter – I had speculated that it was possible to do a self-contained family campervan tour of NZ while “self-isolating” if you’d arrived from overseas before midnight last night. With a mix of campground operator assistance, supermarket food delivery and app based fuel purchases you’d still be able to do day walks, bike rides and enjoy the great outdoors and spectacular scenery. Anyway, that option is gone now so you’re down to armchair travel via your laptop or tv.
Robyn Main
5 years agoHi Peter,
Our 22 yr old Aussie son is driving around USA in what looks like a delivery van (great for parking in loading zones when cities had traffic). He’s got his surfboard and pulls up at vacant land near beautiful beaches in Florida now and just surfs and eats take away and oatmeal.
He’s decided to wait it out and has his best mate travelling too so he’s not alone. Mate has pizza making skills so if things get tough, maybe Domino’s might give them a job making and delivering!? (Buckley’s chance of getting a Green Card though!).
Yes, he will be there beyond the 90 day USA visa but he’s hoping Trump will induce the Aussie Mates rates in this instance. Have you got any tips for him?
Peter Moore
5 years agoHi Robyn,
That’s a tricky one. I’m not an expert on these matters by any means.
If I had my parent hat on, I’d tell him to follow the Aussie government’s advice and come home. But if I was 22 years old again and in his position I’d be tempted to ride out this pandemic in the back of my van too, surfing and eating pizza every day.
The only thing I would say is that his pushing his luck with the visa. In developing countries you can slip a few bucks to the right official and these things will be overlooked. In America, I suspect they’ll put him in detention. And I wouldn’t be counting on mate’s rates with Trump. The key is in his motto, ‘America First.’
Then there’s the stratospheric costs of health care in the States. Any kind of treatment can run into hundred of thousands of dollars. Even if he doesn’t get coronavirus, he might break his leg or similar. And if he’s overstayed his visa, any travel insurance he may have will be null and void.
So, if he insists on staying the road, I’d suggest he get out of the States and head down to Mexico or Canada while he can. Health care is more affordable should he need it. More likely to get some kind of reciprocal health coverage with Canada. But the surfing will be better in Mexico!
Like I said, I’m no expert. Just some things to consider. My 22-year-old self would probably take the Mexico option. Cheaper living costs, lots of good surf breaks. He might just have to eat tacos rather than pizzas!
Jeff Winter
5 years agoHi Peter,
My wife and I are currently in southern Spain under “lockdown” and I’ve just discovered your books online.
As a retired travel agent (Thomas Cook for many years) but little experience of a package holiday ourselves, preferring to choose where we wander.
As someone with history of long distance walking in the UK and in Europe I have enjoyed many of the type of personal encounters which wrote about. Having ” found” you I guess your books are going to help keep me sane during the weeks ahead until we can return home.
Please keep writing !
Regards
Jeff Winter
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks Jeff!
Hopefully we’ll all be off having adventures again soon!
Hossam
5 years agoGood job. I like it. I love your post. Thanks for sharing.
Keith Hewitt
5 years agoA big thank you for a most fascinating trip though Central America and Jamaica + Cuba.
I am a Brit, but worked in Jamaica 1967 – 1972. I visited Guatemala + British Honduras ( now Belize) And also San Andres, Columbian Island off coast of Nicaragua.
I bought your book for AUD 0.50 from a junk shop at Mannum on the River Murray.
Your writing is so descriptive I felt as though I was there, didn’t need any pictures
Then wanted to tell a friend in Perth to read it so Googled your name and all these fab pictures came up.
Need to read it a second time Must get your other books.
Thanks
Keith HEWITT
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks Keith. Really pleased to hear you enjoyed The Full Montezuma, especially as you have travelled through the region yourself.
And thanks too, for spreading the word.
Much appreciated!
Keith
5 years agoPeter,
Just finished it a second time, love your way with words. One can feel the “tension ” with the GND, and laugh at the situation.
By the way there is a cure for sea sickness, An old RTW sailor taught me when we were sailing from Madeira to the Canaries. Put a lump of stem ginger in your mouth, but don’t chew it. Just let the ginger juices trickle into your stomach.
Not convinced I asked him does it really stop sea sickness ? His reply, well if it doesnt work, what comes up tastes and smells so much better than vomit ?
BTW, have so enjoyed the book have now recommended it to about 8 friends, who have asked “What you doing during the lock down?”
That 50 cents spent in the junk shop in Mannum was the best investment on my Murray river trip!
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks Keith – I will try the ginger trick next time I’m on the high seas. My mum always made us eat bananas when we were sick. Apparently they are the only thing that tastes the same going down as coming back up!
Gio
5 years agoMakes you realize what a blessing travel is..
Peter Moore
5 years agoToo true … and it’s funny the things you miss when you’re locked down at home!
Dave Lardner
5 years agoHi Peter,
Just reading TFM for the second time after reading The Wrong Way Home for second time after being stuck in Saigon recently.
Did the SE Asia backpacker route in the 80s.
Cheers
Dave
Peter Moore
5 years agoCheers Dave. Thanks for getting in touch.
Susan
5 years agoHello Peter,
I have just finished your book ‘Vroom with a View’ (autographed copy I might add) that I picked up from a beautiful little town in Victoria called Lorne.
I can honestly say that your book has inspired my travel plans that I keep note in our ‘Nevill Destinations’ book.
The Italy entry has now had an expansion of locations that I may have never known to visit.
Thank you for your wonderful story that will assist with my planning in the future!!
Safe travels Peter.
Ciao, Susan
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks, Susan.
I’m so glad you enjoyed Vroom. No sure being signed adds value or decreases it, but I’m happy to hear you’ve added some of my Italian ports of call to your post-COVID Wishlist.
I was just speaking to Filippo last night who told me that he’d got a letter from the government saying he could open his business again after it was shut down because of the virus. Hopefully that’s a sign that things are slowly getting back to normal in Italy (or as normal as can be expected) and I’ll be able to pop over and see my Italian friends (and my Vespas!) again.
Cheers
Peter
Rod Downs
1 year agoHi Peter , We live in NZ and have read all of your books . Your first book Vroom with a view inspired myself and my wife to buy a Vespa in 2011 , a GTS 300 . We have since done a tour of Tuscany on a rented Vespa plus various day trips around Umbria and Tuscany , and just completed 8 days around Puglia with another couple from NZ . We all loved it . Thanks so much for the inspiration.
Rod and Chris Downs
Steve
5 years agoHi Pete
We met at Keith’s place in Maida Vale in London and I have some sad news. Keith died from cancer in September, back in Hobart. He went out in typical Keith’s way, gone but not forgotten
Cheers
Steve
Peter Moore
5 years agoHi Steve,
Yeah, sad news. I’d stayed in touch with Keith on Facebook – AKA Lew Skannen – and heard the news.
I put a little memorial on social media at the time, using a pic of him when we went into Afghanistan. I remember they all thought he was Russian, which pleased him immensely!
Like you said, gone but not forgotten!
Thanks for getting in touch.
Cheers
Peter
Craig Wardle
5 years agoHey Peter,
I have followed your career from day 1…I did an around the world trip in 98-99, starting in England passing through SE Asia, Oz, NZ, South Pacific – but then got stuck in Canada and emigrated here 2004.
I ‘check in’ every so often to see if you have anything, but knew that a family was busy times. I have all your books and eagerly await each one, so this is a real treat – especially now. Going to start chapter 1 now!!!
Stay safe
Cheers!!
Peter Moore
5 years agoHey Craig – great to hear from you!
Hope things are going well in Canada. You’re right about having a family putting a brake on things. My daughter is now older enough to start ignoring me, hence why I’m back on the travel wagon. Shame COVID-19 came along to stymie things for a while still.
Cheers
Peter
Dianne
5 years agoHi Peter,
I am re-reading your original book version of NSITT for the umpteenth time (during lockdown) and there are some comments that still make me laugh out loud.
Having travelled to a number of the places that you mention, at an even earlier time than you were there, there are some realities which do not change including border crossings, the state of the toilets and the state of the accommodation!
Perhaps it is why NSITT resonates so well.
Thank you for putting together such an interesting set of instructions and traveller’s tales!
Peter Moore
5 years agoThanks Dianne. Glad to hear that NSITT still rings true. I’m just putting together an eBook version and, I must admit, I was a little concerned that it might be a little date. But apart from the obvious things like music cassettes and Internet cafes, it’s pretty clear that the ‘fundamentals’ of travel are still the same!
Silvie van de Ree
4 years agoThanks for sharing, loved reading it!
Peter Moore
4 years agoThanks Silvie!
Mario Bonnici
4 years agoDear Peter
I have finished reading your book ‘Vroom with a View’. I enjoyed every minute of it. I like your style of writing as it is simple and light but with a lot of details information.
I know Vespas very well as they were the means of transport in my youth. There was also another popular scooter, the Lambretta, which was also popular at that time.
I have lived in Melbourne for the last 34 years but I originally hail from Malta, which is small island in the Mediterranean about 60 miles away from Sicily. Being so close to Italy, although a British colony until 1974, Malta had a lot of Italian influence and the motor scooter and the Fiat 500 were two of them.
I hope you managed to bring Sophia to Australia and that you married Sally and probably have a few kids.
I am looking forward to read another of your books.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi Mario,
Really pleased to hear you enjoyed ‘Vroom with a View’ and that it reminded you of your youth in Malta. I was in Malta a couple of years ago and loved it. I stayed in an old place in Silema, and shuttled back and forth across the harbour to Valetta on the dgħajsa. Brilliant.
I also had a bit of a wander around the rest of the island too and loved it. Didn’t get the chance to get across to Goza, so will definitely have to get back there as soon as this whole Coronavirus thing is over.
Barry
4 years agoHello Peter,
I’ve just finished reading ‘Vroom With A View’. I loved it – couldn’t put it down!
I love all things Vespa and Italy. My mate and I both have Vespas and ride out here in Malvern England.
It was Steve who bought your book to my attention. I am glad he did.
Take care. All the very best to you.
Regards from Baz.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi Baz,
Thanks for your message. Glad to hear you enjoyed Vroom. Always means a lot from a fellow Vespista! Hope you’ve been enjoying a few lockdown rides in Malvern, if only to test your eyesight!
Cheers
Peter
nicole
4 years agoHi Peter,
I have really enjoyed all of your books.
I’d love to see a pic of Jon!
Peter Moore
4 years agoThanks Nicole. Much appreciated.
As a way of thanks, here’s a pic of Jon and the GND in Costa Rica!
Cheers
Peter
J Mdumulla
4 years agoHi Peter,
Just finished reading your book Swahili For The Broken Hearted.
I feel like I have travelled with you. I can sense the dust, smells, you paint such vivid pictures.
I wish you wrote a bit more about Tanzania. It seemed you just passed through it but didn’t take much note like the other countries.
I am hooked though, so I must get all the other books.
Any reason you chose the wise Swahili headings?
Sparky
4 years agoHi Peter,
I have just completed both Vrooms and I thought it would be remiss of me not to say how much I enjoyed both tales of adventure.
I have been travelling to Italy every year for the past 16 years but unfortunately I had to cancel my Easter and Summer trips due to the recent Covid 19 crisis.
Your Italian memoirs on your Vespa are the exact same reasons of why I fell in love with the country and they have provided me with sunshine and laughter during one of the most difficult times we have ever experienced globally.
I found your narratives and concept of exploration extremely motivating and as a result I’m going to purchase a brand new Ferrari red Vespa GTS 125 with matching top box, a dream of mine for years.
Next summer I plan to travel on the Hull to IJmuiden ferry, scoot past Amsterdam to Dusseldorf, jump on the Motorail all the way to Verona. From there I hope to survey Lake Garda and the Dolomites.
The reason I state this is because you have provided me through your writings with the stimulus to ‘make it happen’, for this I thank you kind sir.
By the way, why don’t you go for the Vespa trilogy, Vroom around the Lakes!!!!
Grazie mille,
Saluti,
Sparky
Peter Moore
4 years agoHey Sparky,
Thanks so much for your message. I really pleased to hear you enjoyed my ‘Vroom’ books. Even more so that they’ve motivated you to have your very own Italian Vespa adventure. I love it when that happens!
I also like your idea fro the trilogy. I haven’t seen much of the north.
Now … just got to convince the wife about buying another Vespa …
Cheers!
Gearoid
4 years agoHi Peter,
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed re-reading your books lately. There is one that I have never been able to track down – “Same Same, But Different”, which Wikipedia claims was written in 2006 and published as an eBook.
Wikipedia claims a lot of things, but I presume there must be some truth to this. Google, which also claims a lot of things, seems to think it was about a ten day ride on a Vespa through the Mekong Delta. If so then I’d love to know more, and ideally read it.
You seem to be the best person to ask!
Gearoid
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi Gearoid,
I’m not sure who wrote my Wikipedia entry – it just kind of appeared – but they are correct. There was an eBook version of a little Vespa trip I did around the Mekong Delta. I used to give it away for free, but after Amazon started their Kindle Unlimited program they cracked down on that and pretty much insist that you have to sell eBooks for at least 99p/99c or join up to their scheme.
Long story short, I took it down off Amazon. But I’m currently working on a new eBook version, with photos, so I can feel justified within myself charging something.
Keep an eye on the site for news. I’ve also taken a note of your email, so I’ll also let you know directly when it’s done.
Cheers
Peter
Robert Buthlay
4 years agoIs there anywhere I can buy the book Vroom by the Sea? Vroom with a View is by far my favourite book. It Brought back many memories of my days with a Vespasian. Superb.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi Robert,
It’s a tricky one to track down. It’s out of print in the UK, but I think you can still get it in Australia. I know Fishpond.com.au are selling copies. And you can usually find secondhand copies on the various Amazons.
If you have a Kindle, it’s always available as an eBook. If you look on the page above you’ll see direct links to the various territories and a link to the Apple eBook version as well.
Richard Warran
4 years agoThe Muttonbirds album Salty reminds my of my travels in New Zealand a brilliant kiwi band that were massive in NZ but a bit underground here in the UK but as good as Crowded House.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi Richard,
I love The Muttonbirds! I’ve got a copy of Salty in my storage unit back in Sydney. Thanks so much for reminding me of them. Just off to Spotify to have a listen now!
Gearoid Kingston
4 years agoHi Peter,
That’s great news, and I very much look forward to reading it. When you consider that 99p buys you less than half a cup of coffee in the U.K. (taking less than 5 minutes to drink), 99p for the escapism of reading about one of your adventures is an absolute bargain – with or without photos. I love viewing the photographs on your website in conjunction with re-reading your other books anyway.
Gearoid
Trish Brown
4 years agoHi Peter,
Just reading your very interesting 1999 publication ‘The Wrong Way Home’ – in Albania at the moment!
Just keen to know what year you set out for that trip?
Regards Trish
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi Trish,
Thanks for your comment. I left London in April 1994 to do that trip. Quite a while ago now and I know Albania is in a much better state than it was then. Having said that, the Albanians were incredibly hospitable, despite the conditions they found themselves in and it remains one of my favourites of all the places I visited.
Cheers
Peter
Nadja Cyr
4 years agoDo you have a picture of the toilet on the overnight train in Egypt? I remember seeing it somewhere.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi Nadja,
You’re right. I did. When I upgraded the site I left it out. But seeing as you asked nicely, here it is:
Enjoy!
Richard
4 years agoPeter,
I am just reading ‘The Wrong Way Home’ after it has been sat on my shelf for years.
It is bringing back a lot of great memories of a trip I did in the 1998 in the other direction, from India to Jersey by Enfield motorcycle.
Poignantly and movingly, today on VJ day I have just read the section about your grandfather.
Thanks,
Richard
Peter Moore
4 years agoThanks Richard. I must admit to thinking about my grandfather too. There’s been a lot about the war in Burma here in the UK and his plane was shot down during a bombing raid to support the Chingdits.
Cheers
Peter
David Blinkhorn
4 years agoHi Peter
Just finished TFM. Really enjoyed it and as other people have said you have a brilliant way with words and make the reader feel as though they know a town or city even if they haven’t visited the place.
I really hope that you and the GND are still together and I guess it must be over 20 years ago that you made the trip.
Just your Swahili book to go now.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi David,
Thanks for your message. Glad to hear you enjoyed ‘The Full Montezuma.’
If you’ve got hold of ‘Swahili for the Broken-Hearted’ you’ll know that the GND didn’t last. Travelling together is usually a ‘make-or-break’ scenario for relationships and so it was for us.
Not all is lost though. I have married and had a daughter since, so I’m not one of those sad blokes propping up a bar somewhere saying how much better everything was 20 years ago!
Cheers
Peter
Guy Francis
4 years agoHello Peter
I have just about finished reading ‘Vroom’ for a third time. It gives me encouragement to get organised to fix my 1963 VNB 125cc (light blue) I bought in 1987 while at Uni in Wollongong.
I gave my last copy of the book away when I sold my other Vespa (1975 Rally 200) to someone in Melbourne on the mistaken memory that you rode around Italy on a Rally. Anyway, it was always the curves of the 125 that I preferred.
Sometime ago, I was reading your book “The Wrong Way Home” and at the end of the book you travel up the freeway to towards Liverpool NSW, “…past your old school…” and I’m thinking that’s got to be HAHS…I went there…who wrote this…Peter Moore…I know him…friend of my brother Mark. Small world. I enjoyed the references to life as a Westie.
The sale of the (rusty) Rally turned $150 (after 20 years of being used occasionally and in the way) into $3500 and bought me a BMW K100 ($1000). As you know “Way leads onto way…” and I have several BMs.
Still got the VNB, it is in bits in my Aladdin’s cave of a single car garage. It will ride again.
Best wishes to you, your family, Lesley-Ann.
Regards
Guy Francis
PS. Have a vague memory of you drinking some cocktail of whatever could be found in the kitchen at my parent’s place made by Al Woollard (?) and you jumping around to endure the torture. Think the payoff was $10 or less. Cheap bastard.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHey Guy,
Great to hear from you! Hope all is well.
I rode a 1975 Rally in my second Vroom book, ‘Vroom By The Sea‘, so your memory isn’t letting you down.
And, as for being a cheap bastard, $10 was a lot of money back in those days.
Having said that, I’d probably do it again for $10 all these years later, so you’re probably right.
Good luck getting your ’63 back in shape!
Cheers
Peter
karen
4 years agoLove this, Peter…more! (please).
Peter Moore
4 years agoThanks Karen. I’ll see what I can do. 🙂
Bob Fogel
4 years agoJust finished Vroom by the Sea. It took me back to our visits to Positano, Ravello and Sicily along with some destination ideas for our next trip to Italy. Previously read Vroom with a View, which I also enjoyed.
Peter Moore
4 years agoThanks Bob – always nice to hear that I’ve helped bring goof memories back for my readers. And I appreciate your kind words for both Vrooms.
Cheers
Peter
Peter. Marsh
4 years agoI read NSITT sometime ago in Spain and really enjoyed it. I’ve just finished TFM and loved it. I spent some time in Jamaica and that section made me chuckle. I’m now up for your take on Italy and Africa.
I know that you are married with kid (s) but I’m left wondering whatever happened to the GND eventually?
Peter Moore
4 years agoHey Peter – thanks for your message. Glad to hear my experiences in Jamaica rang true with yours!
Re: The GND. All is explained at the start of Swahili for the Broken-Hearted. But the short answer is: it didn’t work out!
Cheers
Peter
Sonia
4 years agoGreat to stumble across your blog and this article. I see you have a very interesting editorial style. Brief, yet informative enough text, accompanied by a photo that usually indeed speaks a thousand words. Lovely read!
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi Sonia,
Thanks. Didn’t realise I had a particular editorial style, but you’re right. Travel to me is about sharing stories and inspiring people to go and experience the world and get their own stories to tell!
Sonia
4 years agoI was told about bull racing in Indonesia when in Bali, or more precisely Nusa Lembongan.
I’ve felt very attracted to spending some time travelling in remote areas of otherwise exposed tourist spots. Guess COVID has a different ideas and I’ll have wait for that.
Awesome post again! I’m your new reader! Was looking exactly for something like that and am glad I found it.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi Sonia,
The bull races are quite a spectacle. They’re held all across Madura, but I reckon the ones in the small villages are the best. The whole community comes out and it is quite the occasion.
And re: travelling to less exposed tourist spots, I highly recommend it. You might not get to see as many world famous ‘sights’ but it is so much easier to meet people and have a more authentic local experience.
Sonia
4 years agoAnother awesome read. I got totally stuck on your blog. Amazing stuff and especially because I’m currently based in Malaysia and know EXACTLY what you mean by people not having the slightest idea of what you are talking about yet giving the impression it’s all crystal clear to them.
Malaysian’s are not so good as Indonesians, as they usually give a blank stare at some point, but Indonesians take it to the next level. Impressive lol. I’m laughing at some of my stories too.
BTW, I’m confused, do you have an instagram account or not? Sorry if I was supposed to get a joke but didn’t… Thought the link meant to take me to your account…
Peter Moore
4 years agoThanks Sonia – glad you’re enjoying the posts and that they’re ringing true to your travel experiences!
And re: Instagram. I do have an account. It’s @petermooretravel
Jessie Taylor
4 years agoHi Peter!
Your blog has not only inspired me to travel,but has also given me an idea as to what to look forward to/anticipate as a solo-traveler.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHey Jessie,
Thanks for that! I guess the best advice I can give for travelling solo is to expect the unexpected and to just go with the flow. Oh, and trust your gut. If you feel something isn’t quite right, it probably isn’t.
Having said that, travelling on your own is the quickest and easiest way to meet people and truly experience a country.
Enjoy!
Sonia
4 years agoAs always, you don’t disappoint Peter 🙂
I almost saw myself in your shoes because that routine looks so good to me. Not only do I love beer, but finding a beer spot is always a joy on any trip.
Though, I think the best part is giving the bottles to the kiddos.
Guess simplicity is just as powerful as an act of kindness purely inspired by it.
Great post!
Peter Moore
4 years agoThanks Sonia!
Neil
4 years agoHi Peter
I too have just finished your book. It brought back memories of back packing in China in 1990. You made me remember the frustration of trying to arrange anything there in those days. Days there were either very hard or very rewarding.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi Neil,
Glad you enjoyed ‘The Wrong Way Home’ and that it brought back memories of your time in China. It was a struggle back then, but of course that’s what made it such a great adventure. With the benefit of hindsight – and enough water under the bridge – I always remember the hard times as the best times!
Andy Allsebrook
4 years agoHello! Many years ago you put out a message asking for places to stay. I got in touch and said me and two mates had recreated your African trip. We were arranging a visit in Barnsley, UK. I abruptly changed jobs, lost me email address and we never arranged a meet up.
Years after that I became friends with a guy called James Druce, who I believe you stayed with at some point. You gave him a set of signed books. I’m requesting my set now ???. Just kidding. It was a shame we missed you, I’m sure we’d all have had many tales of Africa to share a drink over!! Hope you’re well mate, and can get travelling again soon. All the best.
Peter Moore
3 years agoHey Andy,
I vaguely remember this. And sadly, never made it to Barnsley on that trip. Would have loved to hear about your African adventures too.
Re: James,. Small world, isn’t it.
Re: Travelling again. Over 12 months later and we’re still waiting. Hope you’ve got something epic planned for when we can.
Cheers
Peter
Hannah Jones
4 years agoYou are very kind and a good influence. I might bring all of my empty bottles and sell them and then give them to those who are in need. This is a very good post, thank you for sharing this
richard
4 years agoHi Peter,
Just finished your book. It was very enjoyable.
When did the trip take place? I did my 1st overland Amsterdam to Bangkok and then Bali in 74-76,
Followed that up with a bicycle trip through SE Asia in 82/83.
2020 has been the 1st year i have NOT left the country I am living in (Thailand) in decades.
Namaste’
Peter Moore
4 years agoHi Richard.
I did the trip way back in ’94.
Funny thing is, I get a lot of emails from people saying things haven’t changed much.
Having said that, I am envious of you doing the big overland trip at the height of the ‘Hippy Trail’ era. That must have been something else!
Richard
4 years agoHey Peter, here’s my ultimate road trip:
Bangkok-Calcutta (by air) and then on to Darjeeling – Kathmandu – Delhi – Leh – Delhi – Ajmer -Bombay – Goa – Kerala – Land End. All around Sri Lanka. Bangkok (by air) then Singapore – Bali- Sydney (by air).
By bicycle.
Best 18 months of my life.
Peter Moore
4 years agoWow. Sounds epic!
Nuno
4 years agoWhen was it? Do you remember which day of the week runs the train from Wadi Halfa to Khartoum (and back)? Was it pleasant or should I rather a bus?
Thank you for your help.
I look forward to reading your book!
Peter Moore
3 years agoHey Nuno,
It was a while ago now. Back in the early 2000s. So can’t remember what day it ran (it was once a week back then) I’ve heard mixed news about the train – either that it’s stopped running or they’ve replaced the tracks and it’s going again.
When I did the trip, the train was more reliable than buses, but I wouldn’t say it was pleasant. Whenever the train got over 20 ks and hour it kicked up dust that then filled the carriage and made it difficult to breathe. It was an adventure though, and is that what it’s all about?
Anyway, thanks for getting in touch. Hope you have your very own Sudanese train adventure very soo!
Cheers
Peter
Mark Dabbs
4 years agoJust finished your book Peter at 4 am! What happened to the GND? Looking at your pictures it looks like she was more than happy. You have rather pulled me up about taking a girl with me on a trip round Canada though. Less hassle on your own. Gonna get “Swahili” next as a follow up. That’s three books of yours I’ve bought so if I don’t get a mention here…they may be the last!
Ed
4 years agoReally enjoying the book at the moment and great to stumble upon these photos of the trip. Some much needed escapism at the moment!
Peter Moore
3 years agoThanks Ed. I know what you mean! I could do with an adventure – any adventure – right now!
Dave Fryer
4 years agoHi Peter. Just read Vroom with a View and thought it was bloody great. I too am a scooterist with a couple of Vespas and not having any scooter rallies to attend in 2020 was hard but your trip helped during our long winter nights to add a bit of sunshine. Gonna read Vroom by the Sea next. If you get down to Devon look us up and I’ll lend you a scoot. Cheers
Peter Moore
3 years agoHi Dave – glad to hear you enjoyed Vroom. Means a lot coming from a fellow Vespa owner. Devon is a pretty nice part of the world. I may well just take you up on your offer!
Cheers
Peter
Mark Dabbs - Walsall's Running Ambassador
4 years agoDear Peter
At the start of chapter 10 – Nkhata Bay, Malawi – second paragraph you have put the wrong name of President Banda – it is Hastings Kamuzu Banda, not Zazuma you have the wrong middle name. Sorry.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHey Mark,
Don’t be sorry! Your correction is very much appreciated and probably something my editor should have picked up!
I’m in control of the eBook version, so I’ll make that correction right now. I’ll also forward your message to my publishers. Hopefully they can correct it for the next reprint.
Cheers!
Julian Perris
4 years agoHi
I worked at the hotel in the mid 1980s.
I worked for Yugotours as a resident entertainer,I have such fond memories of the place and people ,be nice to chat some time
julian
Sonja Mikulcic
2 years agoHallo
Meine Mama hat auch im 1980 dort gearbeitet. In der Küche gibt es Leute die dort leben die in dem Zeitraum dort gearbeitet haben. Ich möchte dieses Jahr dort hin fahren eine kleine Überraschung zum 60. Geburtstag
Kennst du jemanden mit sie sich unterhalten könnte über die alten zeiten und was mit dem Hotel pasiert ist. Gruss Sonja
Chris
4 years agoI feel something special about you, unlike most other travel bloggers and enthusiasts.
You seek and find beauty in small, simple things that don’t need to look spectacular or trendy. That makes me feel happy by its nature even though we don’t know each other.
Thank you so much for that.
Peter Moore
3 years agoThanks Chris. Much appreciated.
Peter Moore
4 years agoThanks Chris. I try my best!
Kuhu Sharma
4 years agoHi
Here is my ultimate road trip from Delhi to Leh via Chandigarh Manali by Motorbike with BestFriends.
Favorite 10 Days.
Peter Moore
4 years agoHey Kuhu,
That’s a next level road trip. Sounds awesome.
Sonia
3 years agoJust read this now and despite seeing all the posts on Instagram I lolled hard. What a read! I mean… Yet again you totally dragged me in your mini though super poignant stories. Each of them is so wonderfully written that I feel like I want to be reading them again and again. But quite honestly it’d be awesome if we could have a chat in person over a beer and I’d coax all the juicy details from you. And as a Czech I can’t but finish by saying ‘Fuck the army’!!!
Peter Moore
3 years agoThanks Sonia. Right back at you!
Walkace
3 years agoRead Vroom with a View – loved it! I’m still riding Lambrettas at 71. We went over the Alps on one when I was 67.
Then I discovered The Wrong Way Home. It brought back lots of memories of backpacking in the past. Funny book but well written, will look out for more of yours,
Wish I could say I bought it but I’m to tight!
Thanks Wallace
Peter Moore
3 years agoThanks Wallace. Glad to hear you enjoyed both books. Good luck on your hunt for my others.
Cheers
Peter
Natalie Roberts
3 years agoI’ve just finished your book after picking it up in a hostel in San Cristobal! Thank you so much for making me laugh, especially as I’m travelling around similar parts with my boyfriend. I laugh as I see us in both of you – even yesterday the debate me and my boyfriend had about going to a cenote, him wanting the more rustic, free route in (with me in flip flops), and me wanting to just pay the tiny entry free for a much easier day! After being ankle deep in mud, my boyfriend finally relented and we paid the entrance fee!
You both travelled to these parts over 20 years ago, what a completely different travel experience you had without the internet at your fingertips…..and without the Instagram generation. You were both so adventurous and brave to travel like you did. Hats off to you.
Thanks once again for a fantastic book….and the photos to check out after made me smile!
Nat
Peter Moore
3 years agoHi Natalie,
Thanks so much for your kind comments. Always pleased to hear that my book rang true with your experiences. It takes a certain kind of bravery – some would say stupidity – to travel with a partner!
I know what you mean about the internet changing things, but in my own travels since I’ve been pleased to see that somethings never change. Meeting people and experiencing, just for a moment, their lives is still as rewarding and exciting as it always was. It’s just a little more difficult to just rock up and expect to find a room or get a bus ticket than it used to be.
Again, thanks for taking the time to comment. It was very much appreciated!
Michael Heffernan
3 years agoLoved the book. I’m fascinated by the Italians. They are the foundation of the west—no doubt most things we do were set in motion 2000 years ago there. Good job on the book!
Saluti!
Peter Moore
3 years agoThanks Michael
Richard
3 years agoThe last (only) cricket match I watched was on a sunny Sunday afternoon on Alderney, it was between two of the local pub teams. To avoid any risk of spillage the wicket keeper stood his pint glass of beer behind the middle stump :). The bowler didn’t seem to take offence.
Peter Moore
3 years agoSounds like fun. Perhaps the wicketkeeper was giving his bowler something to aim at to encourage him to bowl on stumps 🙂
Paul Pollard
3 years agoWe stayed in the building when it was a hotel in about 1976 or 77. Its a shame to see that it has fallen into disrepair. It is in a magical location, we had a wonderful time there. We travelled with Yugotours, the country was still Yougoslavia at the time. I hope it gets turned back into a hotel at some point, its a shame it lays empty and unloved.
Peter Moore
3 years agoHi Paul,
There are plans to redevelop, apparently. They just need to sort things out with the monks. Like you said, it would be a shame for such a magical location to got to waste.
Paul Bradbury
2 years agoWe stayed there for 10 days in 1988 when Yugoslavia was so inexpensive it was difficult to spend your money. Sad to see it disused, we had a really nice time there, we were a young family with a 2 year old and Bol was magical.
Peter Moore
2 years agoHi Paul,
It is sad to see the place abandoned, but I hear there are plans to resurrect it. Bol itself, however, remains just as magical. A little more developed than when you visited, I suspect, but I visited out of season and it was very chilled.
Andrew M
2 years agoI have read both your Vroom books and enjoyed reading about Italy’s culture and your informative observation on the people you met on your travels. Of course the two scooters have piqued my interest and in fact I have an Agrati Capri scooter which is just as Italian as the Vespa and Lambretta. Great photos of your scooter and scenery. Will you be doing another Vroom book?
Peter Moore
2 years agoHi Andrew – thanks for your message. That sounds like a nice collection of scoots you’ve got there!
Glad to hear you enjoyed the Vroom books. And, yes, there are plans to get back and do another trip. Maybe down the east coast.
Watch this space!
Cheers
Peter
Donald
2 years agoHiya Peter
Loved “The Wrong Way Home”. I hope your readers’ admiration still puts a smile on your face, nearly 30 years after your trip. As a new reader, I revelled in your words and observations. It was picked it up in a charity shop because I wanna go to Iran on my motorcycle.
After an arduous (and badly planned) dash to the south of Spain in 2018, a mere hop in comparison to your epic journey (7000 miles in three weeks there and back with two weeks stationary in Spain), I’m doing what I can to increase my strength, flexibility and endurance because the desire is strong. I’m roughly the same age as you.
My first proper adventure was to Utrecht in The Netherlands when I was 17 in 78 to visit a Dutch girl I’d met in France two years earlier on a family holiday. The bike then was a 200cc Yamaha. About a month after I passed my test. Travel has been part of me ever since.
I’m writing a novel about an Iranian boy and his life being brought up in a terrorist training camp. During the research for it, I came across details of Babak castle in the north of Iran not too far from the Azerbaijan border. The now grown boy travels out of Iran for the first time in his life, via the dam over the Aras river on the border, avoiding border crossings.
The calling is to see the castle built by Babak Khorramdin and the dam and the two bridges built centuries ago nearby. Meeting real people in Iran is foremost in my heart.
So thank you for further inspiration. It is very well received and simply encourages me that visiting Iran is now my destiny.
I hope I haven’t taken up too much of your time but I had to let you know how much I enjoyed your book. Funny, entertaining and informative.
Looks like I’ll have to read the one detailing your adventures on a scooter too.
Travel well.
(The email is valid, but don’t tell anyone) 😉
Peter Moore
2 years agoHey Donald,
Thanks for your message! Always happy to hear from readers, especially if they enjoyed my books. Never gets old!
Your trip to Iran sounds amazing. It is easily one of my favourite places I’ve visited. The people there are pathologically hospitable and a remind that it’s dangerous to equate the government of a place and its people. You certainly won’t have any problems meeting real people, that’s for sure. And they’ll helpfully point out the government guys following you as well! 🙂
Again, thanks for taking the time to comment. I really appreciate it. and good luck with your travels and your book.
Cheers
Peter
Norton
2 years agoHi Peter
Just reread The Full Montezuma after sorting out various old books. Last time must have been 20 years ago. Took me right back to travelling around Mexico in 2001 and various other trips. Travelling was different then before the mobile Internet… Much more spontaneous and you never knew what was in store!
Glad to see from the other comments that life has worked out well.
Will have to read/re-read your other books.
Cheers
Norton
Stephen William Smith
2 years agoAm right here with him now. We bought a bowl!
Peter Moore
2 years agoHa! Cool. Say hi to Mansfield for me!
Jock Schoeller
2 years agoJust finished the book ‘Vroom By The Sea’. Loved it. Am off to spend six months inItaly and walk the Francigena from Lucca to Rome. Next year I would like to do a Vespa trip. My son lives in Italy. I taught him Italian. I live in New Zealand so might not have been the smartest idea. It appears there was a girl in Italy for whom only an Italian speaking Antipodean would do. Go figure.
Thanks for sharing your adventures.
Peter Moore
2 years agoHi Jock,
Thanks for your message. I crossed the Via Francigena a couple of times as I headed south from Milan to Rome in my first Vespa book, ‘Vroom with a View’. The Via Francigena goes through some stunning countryside. And plenty of suitable ‘refreshment’ stops too!
Your son has done well to get himself an Italian girlfriend. I wouldn’t regard Italian with an Antipodean burr – Aussie or Kiwi – as particularly romantic sounding. Not like when Italians or the French speak English, for example. But look on the bright side. You now got the excuse to spend a lot more time in Italy. And you’ve got somewhere free to stay!
Seriously though, thanks for your kind words about Vroom. It is much appreciated. I hope you have an equally great time in Italy on your upcoming adventures.
Cheers
Peter
Niki
1 year agoLoved your book Vroom with a View
!
Where did you stay in Lucca ? We are looking for a good place to stay …going in July with bike ?️!
Peter Moore
1 year agoHi Jock. Glad to hear you liked Vroom. Re:Lucca. Loved it. Stayed in two places. The hostel set in an old Monastery (Ostello San Frediano) when I was on my own. And at La Romea (https://www.laromea.com) when I was with Sally. Loved La Romea. It’s it a great spot and in a great old building.
Greg Eccleston
2 years agoSuch an amazing geographical experience. More people should know about Ilhéu das Rolas!
Robyn
2 years agoHi Peter I’m reading Vroom with a view. I’m on a cruise ship home to Sydney from New Zealand.
I’m studying Italian and so enjoying your adventures. Was excited to see your kinder surprise green vespa. I’m your vintage, just a couple of years older so relate to you. Thinking you may have convinced me to convince my husband for us to go back to Italy but to drive a car. We’re too old for a vespa. Thank you.
Peter Moore
2 years agoHi Robyn,
Glad you enjoyed ‘Vroom’. And hopefully, I’ve convinced you and your husband to go back to Italy. Have a great time when you do. And thanks for your message. It was very much appreciated.
Robyn
2 years agoHi Peter again just read a little more about you. 20 minutes from Liverpool station. Leppington or Hoxton Park. Lol I grew up on Hoxton Park Rd across from the BP. As I said before I. On a cruise ship and tonight I found a mini gold vespa and an Italian fuel pump on board.
Peter Moore
2 years agoHa ha. Small world. I grew up at Rossmore. I used to drive fast – too fast – when I was younger. Hence only 20 minutes from Liverpool 🙂
Isaiah Emmanuel Sunganimoyo
2 years agoThank you Peter Moore for visiting our country, MALAWI.
Peter Moore
2 years agoMy pleasure, Isaiah.
Greg Eccleston
2 years agoLove this picture. I have a similar one, sans sisters.
Jon
2 years agoI am restoring a Vespa 50 special now – someone who is helping with the project gave me your book, good read. Fun trip – I need to do a road trip myself but a 50 special maxes out at 30mph. Thanks for the book and the adventures. Inspiring
Peter
1 year agoHello Peter. I’ve read your book now probably 3 times over many years. It has meant a lot to me and had a quite effect during emotional times in my life. I think of now affection. Recently I’ve had the pleasure sending it as a gift to someone who I thought would just get it, and they have. That’s a special thing.
All the very best to you. Peter
Jen Dal Bon
1 year agoHey Peter,
Just finished reading Vroom With A View which was given to my husband for his 60th. Brilliant!! He just bought himself a 1961 Vespa yet to be named !!
He is the 3rd owner & we can’t wait for it to come back from the specialist Vespa mechanic to zip around & have coffee Sunday mornings at our local Cafe. We are hopefully heading back to Italy next year to see family in Crespano del Grappa north of Venice.
Thanks for the ride I felt like I was on the back of Sophia with my husband ?
Dave Lardner
1 year agoAwesome listening.
Nadim
1 year agoThose last 3 photos don’t appear to be of Dahab but Hurghada
Peter Moore
1 year agoHi Nadim,
You’re 100% correct. Taken while waiting for the ferry across to Sharm el Sheik. Well spotted.
Mike
1 year agoGreetings from Poland,
My mother, huge fan of Vroom, lent me the book and I fell in love with it instantly. Great story and journey!
Thank you!
All the best for you, Sally, and your daughter.
Mike
Larry Snyder
1 year agoGreat piece Peter. My pro life had me there a few years back. They are lovely people. Keep up your good work!
Peter Moore
1 year agoThanks Larry!
Chernor Amadu
1 year agoAbsolutely amazing and looks super nice with your piece of written descriptions about this lovely paradise.
Peter Moore
1 year agoThanks Chernor!
Alexa
1 year agoFunny how broken hearts could gear us to greatness!I loved this read…
…
P. S the town in Kenya is Isiolo not Isiola.
Agnieszka
10 months agoHi Peter,
Unlike your other readers, I wasn’t in an exotic and fareaway płace while reading your book. I spent days and night at the bedside of a family member in an old, igły and claustrophobic Hospital. Even the narów Windows ovelooking the Canadian prairies were covered with a film that dulled the Sun and blurred the view. I Łobez reading about your adventures. Your book was my window to the wider world.
Greg Eccy (Homo Sapien)
8 months agoLove it. The details, especially. You write as well as ever.
Bv
8 months agoThere in 1987. Came from Hurghada, across to Sharm on a boat that got caught in a storm. Took 14 hours to make the crossing. I can still see the water sloshing about below decks! Seriously thought we’d never make it. Ended up in Dahab. Slept in the straw huts along the beach. There was an Aussie who owned a bar/cafe at the end of the beach. Lots and lots of black Sea Urchins. We also saw a decent sized shark….so stayed out of the water. All the local children were desperate for pens and pencils. Then a battered old taxi back to Cairo. Great times. Sad to see what it has become. But that is “progress”, apparently.
Laura
7 months agoI have done the opposite and enjoyed Christmas in Australia. Brisbane to be exact. It was very odd having cold ham and salad with a Christmas tree flashing away. It felt very odd
Peter Moore
7 months agoIt would have been very hot and humid too, making the the paper crowns in the crackers stick your forehead. Good times! 🙂
Paul Underwood
7 months agoJust finished this book and thoroughly enjoyed it. I also own a rally 200 and feel inspired to do a similar trip on it… I had already planned to ride my 1958 lambretta to the site of the old innocenti factory … but maybe something on the rally.
Thank you for sharing your experiences in this superbly written book.
Phill P
7 months agoHey Peter,
Have read Full Montezuma and Wrong Way Home in last 12 months having found them in second hand bookshops on Souh Coast of NSW. Have enjoyed dipping into them immensely. Your writing invokes memories of my travels overseas. The eclectic mix of sheer thrills when experiencing something for the first time,, the rhythm of moving constantly from new places to places new and the simple joys of shared connections with others from different walks of life. Now onto Vroom View.
Warwick Dawson
6 months agoHi Peter,
I have just finished reading Vroom With A View which I picked up second hand on a recent holiday in Bright, Victoria, in Australia.
My own trip through Tuscany in the late ‘80’s was in a then 18 year old beige VWCombi that like Sophia nearly always went but never quite properly. It was the best vehicle I ever owned. Your book brought back so many memories of my own travels.
I was born in ‘61 too so now am on the verge of having time to travel again after bringing up our family of 3 beautiful girls.
Reading your story has left me wondering how we should do it … there is definitely a charm and adventure of not following the crowds!
Thanks man … a great read I’ll look for you on a book shelf again soon. Great job.
Cheers … Warwick
Peter Moore
6 months agoThanks Warwick – sounds like you had a great adventure yourself. Pleased my book brought back memories.
Cheers
shen
6 months agoThank you, This “hotel” belonged to my father.
Peter Moore
6 months agoHey Shen,
Not a problem. It was my favourite place to eat on Male. Is it still open?
Shuaib
6 months agoGood story about Fuvahmulah. I think you should visit once again
Abdulla Ahmed Didi
6 months agoVery interesting and descriptive article about how Fuvahmulah people including my dad loaded and unloaded goods in olden days.
Now we have a horbour and a airport. Sir, you will be surprised to see the local guest houses and dive centre and other developments.
Peter Moore
6 months agoThanks Abdulla. Sounds like things have changed a lot! I must get back some day and check it out.
Mike
5 months agoReading your book sitting on my own in my local bar in Shanghai. Just laughed out loud and simultaneously snotted into my beer. Tastes surprisingly ok.
Best book I’ve read in a long time.
Thank you
Peter Moore
5 months agoHa ha. Thanks Mike. Appreciate that. I’ll take your word on the snot beer though 🙂
Peter
2 months agoHi Peter. Is Gianni still on the go in Milan?
Kerrin
1 month agoI think I was there about the same time as you. On the concrete floor in the hut. Snorkelled the blue hole with a leaky mask & no fins – I was the only one there. I remember the tent we all hung out at & the yummy banana pancakes!! I also remember watching (a pirated copy) of “Jessica Rabbit” that they played most nights on a screen/sheet they had rigged up in the tent for night entertainment. Those were the days….