Nomad: Letters from a Westward Lap of the World

A very easy to read, enjoyable book. Mr. Jones sets forth his observations on what must have been quite a journey. He is perceptive and maintains an open mind and an adventurous spirit. If you are considering travel to the Far East especially, it is a must read.

Jason's journey makes me feel `connected' to the everyday people he met throughout his journey. This 'connection' is one you can only get from bonding and living with the locals rather than just passing through as a tourist. I appreciate Jason's opinion and experiences because he immersed himself into the lifestyle and culture of the common folk and even stayed in some of their homes. No lavish hotel or tourist style vacation can compare. How many tourists know the Wild Wall of China even exists? I can't wait to take a similar lap westward with my 6-year old son. Thanks for sharing, Jason!

Nomad: Letters From A Westward Lap Of The World by Jason Jones is an inherently fascinating travelogue of backpacking around the world on a mere $40 a day. Detailing unforgettable experiences in 25 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America, Nomad is thrilling true life story of adventure, meeting new friends worldwide and viewing truly magnificent sights, as well as the terrible pain of learning about the 9/11 attacks when far from home. So vivid it makes the reader feel as if he or she were personally on the road, Nomad is a recommended pick -- especially for armchair travelers who dream of tramping around the world themselves.

You know, I find most travel books wordy and boring: Over descriptive of minute details, and under descriptive of the culture and people. In a time when world events and struggles are brought close to home, I just want an "every man" set of observations. Mr. Jones gives that in this book. Shoot, I feel like I could call him 'Jason' after reading this book. It's like you sat down with a buddy after he got back from his big trip, and he told you about the adventure on a Sunday afternoon, over a six-pack of beer. It's disarmingly causal, and it's pleasantly concise.This is not a history book, it's Jason's (Sorry, Mr. Jones) viewpoint told so you feel like you're walking along beside him. It gives you a glimpse into the world of everyday people around the world without political or media bias. Jason's just a guy, and these are people he meets. It really helps place perspective on the nightly news. Sometimes I forget that there are everyday people in these other countries, just trying to make it and take care of their families. That's good perspective when we only hear about the leaders of those countries on TV. Jason introduces you to a number of entrepreneurial people who are following their dreams and setting goals, just like us, only halfway around the world. I'm past my window of opportunity for a world trip backpacking adventure, but I now feel like I've been on one; one with a good friend. Plus, "Nomad" saved me a lot on airfare.That's why I like this book, and I hope you will too.