Well, four years later I come across your background story. So interesting to say the least. You sure are an inspiration to uninhibited oneself and face your fears and challenges and do what makes you happy in life. You must be so proud of how far you’ve come. At 50, and with some responsibilities in life, I am not sure how I can pursue this without affecting my current life , but that’s one of those challenges that need to be overcome I guess. Even though I have traveled the world somewhat, because travel has always been my passion. In the meantime, I will continue following your travels and try to take those 1 week trips to the next destination on my bucket list. Safe travels, Gareth! Felicidades por todos tus logros. ❤️
When you said “I was scared” - I can sense how genuinely human you are. The whole perfect life/experiences fiesta over the internet makes me appreciate the existence of people like you. Thank you for sharing this.
Dude, do you even understand how inspiring ur journey is?! I left my home (Brazil) over 10 years ago and I love to see ur journey. so happy you r at it.
Gareth, I signed up for your channel after watching the video you made in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. What you gave us of your experience staying in a simple house in that city was a demonstration of humility that showed the man of valor that you are. Now here watching this video where you let yourself show a little of your particular story, makes me sure that your channel is one of the best on UA-cam. Success for you boy. By the way, the backlands of Brazil are waiting for you for a second season of videos here, okay?
Greetings from Brunei. In 2001, i went to the midlands in England for university, did odd jobs (including an assistant at a funeral home), graduated, went south to London to do my postgraduate, graduated again, travelled across Europe and road tripped across the United States, back in London I found a pretty swanky job that paid a lot and lived as a yuppie for a while, the global economy tanked in 2008 and everyone in my office including myself got fired, I fell in love, fell out of love (that was painful), met some of the most amazing people along the way who are some of my best friends now, partied like there was no tommorow and mostly had a blast. Then I realized 9 years had gone by and decided to head home. There were orgasmic highs and horrendous lows but I would not trade it for anything.
Gareth I have to say that your back story really adds depth to your channel. As a "townie" travler myself I definitely get traveling to connect with others vs traveling to be a tourist. It's also really good to know that you come from normal beginnings too as opposed to just being born rich and doing these things. :p it makes What you do more inspirational and seemingly attainable. keep up the good work! JP
Thank you so much for watching, and for saying that JP! That was exactly the goal with this video; to show people you don't have to come from money or a world traveling family to go out and chase your dreams!! All the best!
Glad that you tell us your backstory. It adds a lot of context and meaning to your feature videos, knowing what makes you tick, so to speak. I left Brooklyn NY when I reached a turning point, with a one way ticket, one dog, and one suitcase and moved to San Clemente CA. I had no job, no car, I had nothing. That clip you showed where you were newly arrived in Argentina and you were scared and almost speechless was funny but deeply moving... That was 20 years ago when I made my own move...I now own an art gallery in Palm Springs, I own my own home, I travel the world and it was the best decision I ever made. I truly transformed my life because I had to. I connect with your story because I lived my own version of it. Thanks for being so emotionally open and generous...I am sure that you actually help people who watch your content. Best wishes to you Gareth...
Thank you for sharing your story. I love this video so deep . I love you AppleMan 🍎. You did inspires me. From the start till the end of the video my heart is smiling 🥰☺️ How I wish to see new content of your video about your very first job 🍎🍎🍎. God bless you.🙏
Hello Gareth. Thank you for sharing your great story and letting us know who you are and what you been through. And basically how you come to be where you are now. Sometimes taking a chance on something new or doing something different you'll eventually find something you'll love. Well done Gareth.
Que linda história Gareth!!! E que emoção ver a bandeira do meu Brasil ao seu lado meu amigo, o meu Brasil que é de todos desse mundo e inclusive, a sua casa meu irmão. #saudadesDoAndrew
Hi Gareth! I found you from your Japanese videos and you have become one of my bigger inspirations! I'm currently a high school senior and I have a feint idea of what I want to do with my future. I definitely want to travel and open an online business but your attitude and videos of being a doer instead of a thinker or a sayer inspired my character a lot! Right now, I'm trying to save as much $$ possible for my college life, but mainly I want to get out of college as soon as possible and just get out there and start doing many things. Watching you, I learned that you just go out and go for it, you try anything and everything possible and you don't fear or think too much about it and that's what has inspired me! Since I'm a super shy persona and I tend to think about things but I never do them out of fear or complacency, So just wanted to thank you for helping me slowly come out of this! : )
I am a late bloomer watching your videos. Is only when you featured the Philippines that I said what a cool guy and since then I followed your Vlogs. Your story is amazing and you are living proof that if you love your work, success will follow. Thank you for telling your story. It inspired me a lot.
Just came across your channel today. I love traveling all over the world but the short time spent in each place, I don't feel like I really experience that location. I still enjoy the experience of seeing new places and cultures but the deeper meaning would mean so much more. I love your idea and concept of Tourist to Townie and Travel Deeper. I love it! Thanks for sharing your experiences. I am really enjoying watching your videos.
Great to hear from you Bryanna, and if you have any specific questions regarding travel across Latin America, please don't hesitate to contact me directly via Gareth at Tourist2Townie.com.
Just came across your channel and I can't get enough of your video's seeing how you accomplish so much in life, I start to realise that I want to get out of my comfort zone. I stay in my comfort zone because afraid to experience the unkown but I know that the unknown will release me and make me happy again. Thanks again, I also really enjoy when you have good causes in your video's. Keep up the good work!!
im kinda late watching your videos but i wanna thank u for sharing your life to the world. you are one of a kind man. i can sense you have a big heart and has no pride and prejudice in your heart. you've been an inspiration
Gareth, I really enjoy your programs and presentations. When you talk, you' re also very expressive with you hands, I like that because it keeps my attention. You take very good care of yourself and your hands and it really shows. Good luck in your business, now and in the future handsome!!!
Gareth thank you for your acknowledgement and picture! You were already a handsome child. You are just too cool my friend! God bless you and keep you healthy, my friend and remember that you have a friend AND an admiror in Dalls, Tex.
This video is awesome. I'm actually from San Diego. Not sure if you realized this, but you inspired me to quit my job and go freelance. I watched this video 5 times last Fall. Since February, I've been traveling through Mexico and Guatemala while earning a good income part-time. Thank you, Gareth!
I stumble upon your You Tube channel 2 weeks ago. My hubby and I are heading to Palawan in December. I was born and raised in the Philippines but lived more than half my life here in the U.S. I really appreciate the information you impart in your channel. I wish you all the best and looking forward to watching where your travels take you next!
Up until 2 years ago, my life was 10-12 hour work days, spent weekends sleeping in, overweight bordering on obese. Never took my head out of my daily grind, let alone pay attention to my own city. But then I got a cancer scare that made me reflect on my life and realized with horror that everything up to that point was spent investing in the future, never living in the present. So I promised myself, if I made it through the disease, I would change the way I live. And turns out, it was a false alarm :) In the last 2 years I have cleaned up my diet, attending crossfit classes 4-5x a week, lost 30+ pounds, and most importantly, traveled to 6 cities (in 3 countries; Japan, Ireland, Mexico) I've never been to, and in the midst of planning the next 2 (New Orleans and Iceland). Your videos have been a source of travel inspiration for me :)
This is what I want to do also for the rest of my life to travel and experience real life. Hopefully 40 yrs old is not too late to dream and pursue life I have been dreaming of.❤
Thank you for following your heart and finding a way to make a career out of what you love. You have such a great platform to inspire others to do the same. There is nothing worse than hating what you do every day and nothing better than waking up loving what you do.
Thanks for sharing your journey Gareth. I have spent the last 12 months travelling the world and are coming to the end as I sit here in my air BnB in Thailand before heading back home to New Zealand in a couple of weeks. It has been an amazing experience and I plan on travelling more in the coming months and your videos have been inspiring, in terms of sharing my experiences as well, so thanks. All the best buddy
Excellent video Gareth! I admire you for having the guts to do all that. I never could have done that. You're so at ease in front of the camera.....looking forward to more videos from you. Thanks for doing this! I'm obsessed with Japan, have been there twice and would love to go to Nagano.
Loooove your videos! Not too chatty, not too self-centered, and defo fun! You really highlight the culture and sights of places you visit which helps the audience immerse themselves in your experience. Thank you for sharing! ...oh and glad you enjoyed the Philippines :-)
Hi! I discovered your channel a while ago, and I love your videos. I'm graduating from uni next year, and I'm not really sure what to do afterwards. One thing for sure is that I don't want to settle for this office job I have. This video really motivated me! Keep up the good work!
I'm sure you know, you have worked hard. Along with having some great opportunities. Most of us do not have the life you have made for yourself. I really enjoy watching your videos and your excitement for life! Congratulations on your success!
Hey man your videos and your personal story are just amazing and inspiring. I'm Italian but I live in Melbourne. If you'll have the chance, please make a video about Italy as well! Keep doing what you do because you are great at it 😀
wow gareth!...you have a roller coaster-like life.....it seems to me that you've been through so many stuff in life searching for what you really want in life....'happy to know that you ended up finding what you have been looking for-blogging....well I wouldn't be surprised if one day you will be in different venture...it's okay...enjoy life...afterall you excel in every endeavor you get into....
Extraordinary! Hearing your story reminded me of the following lines in the Alchemist: "...the language of enthusiasm, of things accomplished with love and purpose, and as part of a search for something believed in and desired." Keep conquering each day and place with your enthusiasm 🌟
Hi Gareth, this video is very helpful knowing more about you. And as usual, I also find you funny. Like when you first went to Buenos Aires and you said you were scared! That clip of you looking so scared will also definitely scare anyone, hahahh! That is a long story but I enjoyed every minute of it. Awesome videography as always! More exciting travels! Thanks for making me laugh again! Thanks for the inspiration!
Thank you so much for sharing!! Such a great story & so impressive how you not only had the guts to admit you weren’t happy but the courage to do something about it. So brave. I’m going to Hawaii in A couple weeks & stumbled on your Kauai video. Can’t wait to try some of the tips out.
I have a great respect for you.Thank you for being you.Most of all being open minded and teachable to a culture unlike what you thought you knew..Hawaii...Molokai.. I'm from Hawaii Island on the northern part of the island. Molokai is a very SPIRITUAL place and has a lot of mana (power). Thank you for being someone that knows truth and wisdom of a place I call home.
Thanks for sharing your story! I just discovered your channel so haven't really dove into the videos yet, curious if you've gone to Taiwan? If not, once it's open again, it is a must for the beauty of the land and people, but most of all, for the food!! And also, come visit some places up here in Oceanside!!
Very inspiring! I just came across your vlog in youtube yesterday while browsing and now I'm hooked. I got excited when I found out you were in my country early this year. It's incredible to find out how people who travel full-time plans their lives and I hope to get the same courage🙏
Hey Gareth! I randomly came across your video in the youtube 'rabbithole' and thought... hm... that's odd, I recognize that guy! I actually was in the same grade as your sister growing up, and we briefly taught at the same school 4 years ago. Once I realized who you were, of course, I had to check out what you were up to! :) I have to say- I am really impressed (and entertained) and appreciate what you're doing! I'm looking forward to checking out more of what you have to say and to show us about the world. I ended up getting married, landing a teaching job straight out of college in the RCSD, bought a house, and now have two kiddos and feel like I missed out on some of the opportunities that I would have had, had 'settling down' come farther down the road... As much as I believe I took the path that was laid out for me, and I have been passionate about my career and family, I feel like I missed out on travel... All of this to say, I really appreciate virtually experiencing the world through friends of mine whose wanderlust is so far removed from the life I'm living... Now that includes learning more about different cultures through Tourist 2 Townie. Thanks so much for all you shared in this video... I can really appreciate the leap of faith that you took, and what you're doing for others along the way. :) Keep going out, having fun, and learning!
Hi..i am not a youtuber. I just use youtube as a search engine to gain any informations such as on skincare, travelling, cooking and so on. I do subscribe to your channel and others which i find informative and visually well composed. I watched all your japan vlog before i visited the country last year. And i just came across this video about yourself so it sorts of made me feel personally know you better especially when you said something like you were not happy and you need to go out and find that substance. Things that make you alive. I can totally relate to that...i have been stuck in the routine for such along time. And thank you! You give me the courage to take the steps in discovering myself again. This time i want to travel deeper and stay longer in one country to immerse myself with the locals and culture. All this time i travel within comfort zone , too afraid to go off beaten track. After watching your video i told myself if you were okay then i should be.😉
I also grew up in a small town in upstate NY called Ellenville, but you win, yours is way smaller than mine. Any plans to go back to Colombia? I discovered you after I saw the video you posted of you learning how to salsa dance and loved it. And finally, was that Mark Wiens you were eating noodles with? Love that guy!
So I watched your “My Story (so far) and was intrigued. I love to travel. But one of the things that I don’t like is to go on “Packaged Tours”. So I do a lot of volunteer tourism. I have tagged Orca Whales in Iceland, Searched for the elusive German Beaver, excavated a Roman Fort in Northumbria, and taught English in Poland. I totally agree with you. Yes the sights are interesting, but it is the people that make the journey worth the trip. I love London (or fill in the blanks) but watching the sun rise on the Northumbrian coast as you are walking to your dig is amazing. Walking through the little streets, watching the ferry arrive on the Tyne River from Amsterdam and going home in the evening to have dinner. A much more fulfilling experience. BTW, the first video I saw of yours was the one on The Five Places in Palm Springs to eat. I had actually eaten at every place but the Vietnamese place. And from there I was hooked. Nice job!
What a long story of your life,anyway congratulations!your an honor students.Appreciated so much push it Gareth .Im stay tune in your channel .God Bless
wow congrats for you inspiration and do it all what you love, this is the right way. all other come self if you love what you do. thx for this wonderful video. kisses and hug you and your family, god bless
I just watched your story and I grew up in Victor AND I, too, went to Fredonia! (Lately I've been running into more and more people who went there and their memories or lack thereof, with Scummys", lol! Keep up the great work!
That's very cool to watch the back story of people you watch on youtube. I always wonder what's the story behind the story teller. Way to go, sir! Hope u enjoyed your Philippines trip!
Awesome vid! I haven't been following you very long, but so glad I came across your site! You seem so humble and sincere and you're very engaging. You've totally created a life you love and I find that so inspiring. I love travelling and hearing how one of the travellers I follow made it happen for them is very cool! It's always been a dream of mine to work abroad. Thanks so much for sharing!
Hi, I found you through your video with Yuta and I think you are really inspiring :) I come from Germany but my mom is from Japan and at the moment I am in Japan for 6months to improve my language skills. I'm still going to school so I got a little bit time to think about what I want to do after school and your story is definitely very inspiring. I want to travel and see a lot of places around the world and learn more languages but I always thought that at the end you need a "normal" job like being a doctor, lawyer and things like that to make money. I am definitely going to follow your journey and hope I will be able to do what I like and what I'm good at after school ;) yours Marie
The roots of salsa originated inEastern Cuba (Santiago de Cuba, Guantanamo) from the Cuban Son (about 1920) and Afro-Cuban dance (like Afro-Cuban rumba). There, Spanish and Afro-Cuban musical elements were combined, both in terms of rhythm and the instruments used. learning is key.
My wife and I learnt a lot from your Iceland videos, thank you for that! Plus I loved Japan and Portugal episodes especially, they are very very informative, keep up a great journey!! We will keep on chasing you~.
Amazing journey. I wish I can see the other world but I start with my country first. Im a single mom and I never put impt on myslef like to pamper its always my family and my daughter. I love them so much I may say why I focus on them. I seen some of your vids and I am enjoying it all and I even shared to my American friend online for him to see and understand my world. Thank you for letting me see my world. Stay safe and God Bless 🙏🏽❤🇵🇭
Wow u come a long way G !!! Nice story very interesting 🤔...... but looking back look at u now u all over places that nobody’s can afford just only in a dream..... nice vlogs very inspiring N informative about ur self nice to know!!!!👍👍👍👍
Now I know who you are (a little bit he he ) thanks for showing us the world especially my country Philippines those videos are interesting, living here in Seattle for a while now and see Americans enjoying my country is very inviting to think of going back home for good soon thanks again
So inspiring! I loved your side note about what a bad Spanish student you were... Pilar + Cesar = No Bueno ;) Looking forward to seeing where the next 5 years takes you. Adventure on, friend!
- Wicked. We have very similar stories. I, too, had my own businesses and a small online company. Money at times was great! But, every time I looked toward the future - things just didn't feel right. I didn't want to continue like this forever. I needed something else. After many years of thought and research - I realized that what I wanted more than anything in life - was to travel the world. Meet people, see new things, and learn the local culture - "off the beaten path". So I literally dropped all businesses and walked away. Done. Like I never even stared then. I didn't care. I took everything I owned and walked in to GoodWill and gave it all away. I was done. I would rather travel - working mindless jobs throughout the world, living financially poor, but so internally fulfilled - than doing what I was doing in the States. Now, I am off traveling the world and Vlogging. I'm basically like a professional hobo, at times! Crazy as it sounds - but I love this! Keep it up man! Sooooo many places we both still need to visit! This Earth isn't going to travel itself! Hello from Thailand!
It's great to hear from a like-minded soul such as yourself, thank you for the message! "Internally Fulfilled," I like that! Happy travels my friend and hopefully we will cross paths down the road.
i'm really really like about your life's story!!! your video '' my first day in tokyo'' is the first video i saw. i was impressed by it and i also like it so much .someday i hope you will visit viet nam and make a great video. love you
Great inspirational story when you realized basketball got you nowhere, you changed gears. Not many can do it , whether it be basketball or drugs or alcohol. See more of you! This format is also okay.
Just in last few weeks I have started to watch vblogs. Mark in Thailand lead me to you. This kind of presentation was nice to get to know how your life is. The white board should never be used again. Nice to see your path.
Awesome sauce! You're boy Ray from the Philippines. Sending this message to you just to let you know I like your stuff. You're content is both spontaneous and real. I'm envious yet inspired by how you've come to discover and create your vocation. Travel to Townie. 3 thumbs up!
I stumbled upon your video fro Molokai and I thought it would be cool to watch since like you said no one ever goes there or has heard of it. But fortunately it was the first Hawaiian island I had ever went to and The Big island being the other that I spent any amount of time on. So I figured we have that I common and then I watched this and I as well am from a very small town (35 in my graduation class)! So I subscribed I am now a fan, I expect to see cool videos... lets do this! If you ever need a good yoga teacher let me know I'm your gal. Peace
Hello Gareth, I am filipina. I am one of ur subscriber and follower. I am addicted all of ur videos especially in Philippines. In short I am your avid fan. I wish I can see you in Philippines. To meet you in real would be my greatest accomplishment in life.
I enjoyed this. Kudos to you for putting your story out there. It was interesting and earnest. I love that you worked for Kiva! Your vids on Iceland and Norway are giving me life while I'm kind of in one place at this time. I came off a big 5 country trip 9 mos ago - but.... that's too long heheh.
Another amazing and inspiring vlog/story Gareth.. Love to all our Moms. Your Mom is pretty. Perseverance, teamwork, hardwork, goal-oriented, positive attitude (good vibes only eh :-D), resilience, and kindness, will lead you to success and can travel/go places.
I love your travel videos on Japan you give great tips and tourist advice, planning to go there next year but still choosing on what city to go to, any advice? Thank you for sharing your story - sláinte from Ireland
Wow, so cool, thank you for posting this, inspiring indeed😊,after 7years in varsity I'm finally taking my first step towards my travel dream. Going on a solo trip to Japan😍,a bit scared as so is my momz but it's going to be life changing... Crossing fingers.
the best guideman i have never seen before, good luck and wish to meet you to a small interview for my new book. its my pleasuer to write about you in one page as a limited place ....
Well, four years later I come across your background story. So interesting to say the least. You sure are an inspiration to uninhibited oneself and face your fears and challenges and do what makes you happy in life. You must be so proud of how far you’ve come. At 50, and with some responsibilities in life, I am not sure how I can pursue this without affecting my current life , but that’s one of those challenges that need to be overcome I guess. Even though I have traveled the world somewhat, because travel has always been my passion. In the meantime, I will continue following your travels and try to take those 1 week trips to the next destination on my bucket list. Safe travels, Gareth! Felicidades por todos tus logros. ❤️
When you said “I was scared” - I can sense how genuinely human you are. The whole perfect life/experiences fiesta over the internet makes me appreciate the existence of people like you.
Thank you for sharing this.
Thank you so much for the inspiration - at 59 years old, it's time.
Dude, do you even understand how inspiring ur journey is?! I left my home (Brazil) over 10 years ago and I love to see ur journey. so happy you r at it.
❤️
Gareth, I signed up for your channel after watching the video you made in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. What you gave us of your experience staying in a simple house in that city was a demonstration of humility that showed the man of valor that you are. Now here watching this video where you let yourself show a little of your particular story, makes me sure that your channel is one of the best on UA-cam. Success for you boy. By the way, the backlands of Brazil are waiting for you for a second season of videos here, okay?
Greetings from Brunei. In 2001, i went to the midlands in England for university, did odd jobs (including an assistant at a funeral home), graduated, went south to London to do my postgraduate, graduated again, travelled across Europe and road tripped across the United States, back in London I found a pretty swanky job that paid a lot and lived as a yuppie for a while, the global economy tanked in 2008 and everyone in my office including myself got fired, I fell in love, fell out of love (that was painful), met some of the most amazing people along the way who are some of my best friends now, partied like there was no tommorow and mostly had a blast. Then I realized 9 years had gone by and decided to head home. There were orgasmic highs and horrendous lows but I would not trade it for anything.
Gareth I have to say that your back story really adds depth to your channel. As a "townie" travler myself I definitely get traveling to connect with others vs traveling to be a tourist. It's also really good to know that you come from normal beginnings too as opposed to just being born rich and doing these things. :p it makes What you do more inspirational and seemingly attainable. keep up the good work! JP
Thank you so much for watching, and for saying that JP! That was exactly the goal with this video; to show people you don't have to come from money or a world traveling family to go out and chase your dreams!! All the best!
Just found you today Gareth ...you do speak like a traveler...I like that...thanks for sharing your story...Dont forget to visit Mexico...Take care.
Glad that you tell us your backstory. It adds a lot of context and meaning to your feature videos, knowing what makes you tick, so to speak. I left Brooklyn NY when I reached a turning point, with a one way ticket, one dog, and one suitcase and moved to San Clemente CA. I had no job, no car, I had nothing. That clip you showed where you were newly arrived in Argentina and you were scared and almost speechless was funny but deeply moving... That was 20 years ago when I made my own move...I now own an art gallery in Palm Springs, I own my own home, I travel the world and it was the best decision I ever made. I truly transformed my life because I had to. I connect with your story because I lived my own version of it. Thanks for being so emotionally open and generous...I am sure that you actually help people who watch your content. Best wishes to you Gareth...
Thank you for sharing your story. I love this video so deep . I love you AppleMan 🍎. You did inspires me. From the start till the end of the video my heart is smiling 🥰☺️ How I wish to see new content of your video about your very first job 🍎🍎🍎. God bless you.🙏
I love you, Gareth! Thanks for getting out there and out of your comfort zone, and being an inspiration!
Thanks for watching Maryann!!
Hello Gareth. Thank you for sharing your great story and letting us know who you are and what you been through. And basically how you come to be where you are now. Sometimes taking a chance on something new or doing something different you'll eventually find something you'll love. Well done Gareth.
Que linda história Gareth!!! E que emoção ver a bandeira do meu Brasil ao seu lado meu amigo, o meu Brasil que é de todos desse mundo e inclusive, a sua casa meu irmão. #saudadesDoAndrew
Hi Gareth! I found you from your Japanese videos and you have become one of my bigger inspirations! I'm currently a high school senior and I have a feint idea of what I want to do with my future. I definitely want to travel and open an online business but your attitude and videos of being a doer instead of a thinker or a sayer inspired my character a lot! Right now, I'm trying to save as much $$ possible for my college life, but mainly I want to get out of college as soon as possible and just get out there and start doing many things. Watching you, I learned that you just go out and go for it, you try anything and everything possible and you don't fear or think too much about it and that's what has inspired me! Since I'm a super shy persona and I tend to think about things but I never do them out of fear or complacency, So just wanted to thank you for helping me slowly come out of this! : )
I am a late bloomer watching your videos. Is only when you featured the Philippines that I said what a cool guy and since then I followed your Vlogs. Your story is amazing and you are living proof that if you love your work, success will follow. Thank you for telling your story. It inspired me a lot.
Just came across your channel today. I love traveling all over the world but the short time spent in each place, I don't feel like I really experience that location. I still enjoy the experience of seeing new places and cultures but the deeper meaning would mean so much more. I love your idea and concept of Tourist to Townie and Travel Deeper. I love it! Thanks for sharing your experiences. I am really enjoying watching your videos.
"This is my beautiful mother" was great, I could feel all the girls watching this go "Awhhhh"
Been wanting to travel across Latin America and watching this video just makes me want to go after it. Thanks for your story it's very inspirational.
Great to hear from you Bryanna, and if you have any specific questions regarding travel across Latin America, please don't hesitate to contact me directly via Gareth at Tourist2Townie.com.
Just came across your channel and I can't get enough of your video's seeing how you accomplish so much in life, I start to realise that I want to get out of my comfort zone. I stay in my comfort zone because afraid to experience the unkown but I know that the unknown will release me and make me happy again. Thanks again, I also really enjoy when you have good causes in your video's. Keep up the good work!!
im kinda late watching your videos but i wanna thank u for sharing your life to the world. you are one of a kind man. i can sense you have a big heart and has no pride and prejudice in your heart. you've been an inspiration
From a small town to the big old world you have done well living the life
Thank you so much Mick!
Gareth, I really enjoy your programs and presentations. When you talk, you' re also very expressive with you hands, I like that because it keeps my attention. You take very good care of yourself and your hands and it really shows. Good luck in your business, now and in the future
handsome!!!
Thank you very much Henri (using my hands to express my gratitude)! 😂
Gareth thank you for your acknowledgement and picture! You were already a handsome child. You are just too cool my friend! God bless you and keep you healthy, my friend and remember that you have a friend AND an admiror in Dalls, Tex.
This video is awesome. I'm actually from San Diego. Not sure if you realized this, but you inspired me to quit my job and go freelance. I watched this video 5 times last Fall. Since February, I've been traveling through Mexico and Guatemala while earning a good income part-time. Thank you, Gareth!
I love your story Gareth ..thanks for sharing and thanks for visiting my country Guatemala I hope it was a good experience.
Thank you Carolina! I absolutely loved living in Guatemala and hope to return soon!
I stumble upon your You Tube channel 2 weeks ago. My hubby and I are heading to Palawan in December. I was born and raised in the Philippines but lived more than half my life here in the U.S. I really appreciate the information you impart in your channel. I wish you all the best and looking forward to watching where your travels take you next!
Up until 2 years ago, my life was 10-12 hour work days, spent weekends sleeping in, overweight bordering on obese. Never took my head out of my daily grind, let alone pay attention to my own city. But then I got a cancer scare that made me reflect on my life and realized with horror that everything up to that point was spent investing in the future, never living in the present. So I promised myself, if I made it through the disease, I would change the way I live. And turns out, it was a false alarm :)
In the last 2 years I have cleaned up my diet, attending crossfit classes 4-5x a week, lost 30+ pounds, and most importantly, traveled to 6 cities (in 3 countries; Japan, Ireland, Mexico) I've never been to, and in the midst of planning the next 2 (New Orleans and Iceland).
Your videos have been a source of travel inspiration for me :)
This is what I want to do also for the rest of my life to travel and experience real life. Hopefully 40 yrs old is not too late to dream and pursue life I have been dreaming of.❤
Thank you for following your heart and finding a way to make a career out of what you love. You have such a great platform to inspire others to do the same. There is nothing worse than hating what you do every day and nothing better than waking up loving what you do.
Thanks for sharing your journey Gareth. I have spent the last 12 months travelling the world and are coming to the end as I sit here in my air BnB in Thailand before heading back home to New Zealand in a couple of weeks. It has been an amazing experience and I plan on travelling more in the coming months and your videos have been inspiring, in terms of sharing my experiences as well, so thanks. All the best buddy
Excellent video Gareth! I admire you for having the guts to do all that. I never could have done that. You're so at ease in front of the camera.....looking forward to more videos from you. Thanks for doing this! I'm obsessed with Japan, have been there twice and would love to go to Nagano.
Loooove your videos! Not too chatty, not too self-centered, and defo fun! You really highlight the culture and sights of places you visit which helps the audience immerse themselves in your experience. Thank you for sharing! ...oh and glad you enjoyed the Philippines :-)
Hi! I discovered your channel a while ago, and I love your videos. I'm graduating from uni next year, and I'm not really sure what to do afterwards. One thing for sure is that I don't want to settle for this office job I have. This video really motivated me!
Keep up the good work!
Hey Gareth !! From a simple life u have made your life quite interesting...enjoyed it..Thanks for sharing
I'm sure you know, you have worked hard. Along with having some great opportunities. Most of us do not have the life you have made for yourself. I really enjoy watching your videos and your excitement for life! Congratulations on your success!
Hey man your videos and your personal story are just amazing and inspiring. I'm Italian but I live in Melbourne. If you'll have the chance, please make a video about Italy as well! Keep doing what you do because you are great at it 😀
wow gareth!...you have a roller coaster-like life.....it seems to me that you've been through so many stuff in life searching for what you really want in life....'happy to know that you ended up finding what you have been looking for-blogging....well I wouldn't be surprised if one day you will be in different venture...it's okay...enjoy life...afterall you excel in every endeavor you get into....
Gareth, your story is inspiring! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching Sérgio!
Extraordinary! Hearing your story reminded me of the following lines in the Alchemist: "...the language of enthusiasm, of things accomplished with love and purpose, and as
part of a search for something believed in and desired." Keep conquering each day and place with your enthusiasm 🌟
Hi Gareth, this video is very helpful knowing more about you. And as usual, I also find you funny. Like when you first went to Buenos Aires and you said you were scared! That clip of you looking so scared will also definitely scare anyone, hahahh! That is a long story but I enjoyed every minute of it. Awesome videography as always! More exciting travels! Thanks for making me laugh again! Thanks for the inspiration!
Thank you so much for sharing!! Such a great story & so impressive how you not only had the guts to admit you weren’t happy but the courage to do something about it. So brave. I’m going to Hawaii in A couple weeks & stumbled on your Kauai video. Can’t wait to try some of the tips out.
I have a great respect for you.Thank you for being you.Most of all being open minded and teachable to a culture unlike what you thought you knew..Hawaii...Molokai.. I'm from Hawaii Island on the northern part of the island. Molokai is a very SPIRITUAL place and has a lot of mana (power). Thank you for being someone that knows truth and wisdom of a place I call home.
Thanks for sharing your story! I just discovered your channel so haven't really dove into the videos yet, curious if you've gone to Taiwan? If not, once it's open again, it is a must for the beauty of the land and people, but most of all, for the food!! And also, come visit some places up here in Oceanside!!
Very inspiring! I just came across your vlog in youtube yesterday while browsing and now I'm hooked. I got excited when I found out you were in my country early this year. It's incredible to find out how people who travel full-time plans their lives and I hope to get the same courage🙏
Thank you very much for the message and for following along!
Liked before watching! You inspired my trip to brazil. Especially to Florianopolis!!
Great to hear Cody! Thanks for the message, and for joining me here!
Hey Gareth! I randomly came across your video in the youtube 'rabbithole' and thought... hm... that's odd, I recognize that guy! I actually was in the same grade as your sister growing up, and we briefly taught at the same school 4 years ago. Once I realized who you were, of course, I had to check out what you were up to! :) I have to say- I am really impressed (and entertained) and appreciate what you're doing! I'm looking forward to checking out more of what you have to say and to show us about the world. I ended up getting married, landing a teaching job straight out of college in the RCSD, bought a house, and now have two kiddos and feel like I missed out on some of the opportunities that I would have had, had 'settling down' come farther down the road... As much as I believe I took the path that was laid out for me, and I have been passionate about my career and family, I feel like I missed out on travel... All of this to say, I really appreciate virtually experiencing the world through friends of mine whose wanderlust is so far removed from the life I'm living... Now that includes learning more about different cultures through Tourist 2 Townie. Thanks so much for all you shared in this video... I can really appreciate the leap of faith that you took, and what you're doing for others along the way. :) Keep going out, having fun, and learning!
Great story Gareth! It was inspiring to hear your about your drive for a “better” more fulfilled life.
Hi..i am not a youtuber. I just use youtube as a search engine to gain any informations such as on skincare, travelling, cooking and so on. I do subscribe to your channel and others which i find informative and visually well composed. I watched all your japan vlog before i visited the country last year. And i just came across this video about yourself so it sorts of made me feel personally know you better especially when you said something like you were not happy and you need to go out and find that substance. Things that make you alive. I can totally relate to that...i have been stuck in the routine for such along time. And thank you! You give me the courage to take the steps in discovering myself again. This time i want to travel deeper and stay longer in one country to immerse myself with the locals and culture. All this time i travel within comfort zone , too afraid to go off beaten track. After watching your video i told myself if you were okay then i should be.😉
I also grew up in a small town in upstate NY called Ellenville, but you win, yours is way smaller than mine. Any plans to go back to Colombia? I discovered you after I saw the video you posted of you learning how to salsa dance and loved it. And finally, was that Mark Wiens you were eating noodles with? Love that guy!
So I watched your “My Story (so far) and was intrigued. I love to travel. But one of the things that I don’t like is to go on “Packaged Tours”. So I do a lot of volunteer tourism. I have tagged Orca Whales in Iceland, Searched for the elusive German Beaver, excavated a Roman Fort in Northumbria, and taught English in Poland. I totally agree with you. Yes the sights are interesting, but it is the people that make the journey worth the trip. I love London (or fill in the blanks) but watching the sun rise on the Northumbrian coast as you are walking to your dig is amazing. Walking through the little streets, watching the ferry arrive on the Tyne River from Amsterdam and going home in the evening to have dinner. A much more fulfilling experience. BTW, the first video I saw of yours was the one on The Five Places in Palm Springs to eat. I had actually eaten at every place but the Vietnamese place. And from there I was hooked. Nice job!
What a long story of your life,anyway congratulations!your an honor students.Appreciated so much push it Gareth .Im stay tune in your channel .God Bless
wow congrats for you inspiration and do it all what you love, this is the right way. all other come self if you love what you do. thx for this wonderful video. kisses and hug you and your family, god bless
I just watched your story and I grew up in Victor AND I, too, went to Fredonia! (Lately I've been running into more and more people who went there and their memories or lack thereof, with Scummys", lol! Keep up the great work!
Roc City and Freddy State represent, that is awesome! Thank you so much for watching!!
That's very cool to watch the back story of people you watch on youtube. I always wonder what's the story behind the story teller. Way to go, sir! Hope u enjoyed your Philippines trip!
Awesome vid! I haven't been following you very long, but so glad I came across your site! You seem so humble and sincere and you're very engaging. You've totally created a life you love and I find that so inspiring. I love travelling and hearing how one of the travellers I follow made it happen for them is very cool! It's always been a dream of mine to work abroad. Thanks so much for sharing!
Hi,
I found you through your video with Yuta and I think you are really inspiring :) I come from Germany but my mom is from Japan and at the moment I am in Japan for 6months to improve my language skills. I'm still going to school so I got a little bit time to think about what I want to do after school and your story is definitely very inspiring. I want to travel and see a lot of places around the world and learn more languages but I always thought that at the end you need a "normal" job like being a doctor, lawyer and things like that to make money. I am definitely going to follow your journey and hope I will be able to do what I like and what I'm good at after school ;)
yours Marie
The roots of salsa originated inEastern Cuba (Santiago de Cuba, Guantanamo) from the Cuban Son (about 1920) and Afro-Cuban dance (like Afro-Cuban rumba). There, Spanish and Afro-Cuban musical elements were combined, both in terms of rhythm and the instruments used. learning is key.
Amazing story life story. Take care and God Bless.
Your story is fascinating...just found your channel and now I want to travel..putting on my thinking cap as I write this...lol..
My wife and I learnt a lot from your Iceland videos, thank you for that! Plus I loved Japan and Portugal episodes especially, they are very very informative, keep up a great journey!! We will keep on chasing you~.
Amazing journey. I wish I can see the other world but I start with my country first. Im a single mom and I never put impt on myslef like to pamper its always my family and my daughter. I love them so much I may say why I focus on them. I seen some of your vids and I am enjoying it all and I even shared to my American friend online for him to see and understand my world. Thank you for letting me see my world. Stay safe and God Bless 🙏🏽❤🇵🇭
Wow u come a long way G !!! Nice story very interesting 🤔...... but looking back look at u now u all over places that nobody’s can afford just only in a dream..... nice vlogs very inspiring N informative about ur self nice to know!!!!👍👍👍👍
IT has been an incredible journey that I never could have planned for!! thank you!!
Wow!! I found you by accident!! I love your story! What an inspiration! I'm sharing this my children so they see how awesome your story is!!
Thank you so much Anna! I love when good accidents happen.
What I learned from you today...Focus on your goals. Overcome your fear. The higher the risk, the bigger the reward.
I discovered you through your Japan videos which I loved and I am impressed by this video of your story.Keep it up buddy ,you are a nice person.
Now I know who you are (a little bit he he ) thanks for showing us the world especially my country Philippines those videos are interesting, living here in Seattle for a while now and see Americans enjoying my country is very inviting to think of going back home for good soon thanks again
Awesome and inspiring video. Thanks so much! If you can see Minneapolis/St. Paul as well as Duluth. You may be intrigued.
thank you for sharing your story Gareth, very inspiring!
Thanks for watching Simon!
Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey with us! I wish I could be like you before I reach 40 years old...
So inspiring! I loved your side note about what a bad Spanish student you were... Pilar + Cesar = No Bueno ;) Looking forward to seeing where the next 5 years takes you. Adventure on, friend!
Haha, I think that's a very important part of the story!!
- Wicked. We have very similar stories.
I, too, had my own businesses and a small online company. Money at times was great! But, every time I looked toward the future - things just didn't feel right. I didn't want to continue like this forever. I needed something else.
After many years of thought and research - I realized that what I wanted more than anything in life - was to travel the world. Meet people, see new things, and learn the local culture - "off the beaten path".
So I literally dropped all businesses and walked away. Done. Like I never even stared then. I didn't care. I took everything I owned and walked in to GoodWill and gave it all away. I was done.
I would rather travel - working mindless jobs throughout the world, living financially poor, but so internally fulfilled - than doing what I was doing in the States.
Now, I am off traveling the world and Vlogging. I'm basically like a professional hobo, at times! Crazy as it sounds - but I love this!
Keep it up man! Sooooo many places we both still need to visit! This Earth isn't going to travel itself!
Hello from Thailand!
It's great to hear from a like-minded soul such as yourself, thank you for the message! "Internally Fulfilled," I like that! Happy travels my friend and hopefully we will cross paths down the road.
i'm really really like about your life's story!!! your video '' my first day in tokyo'' is the first video i saw. i was impressed by it and i also like it so much .someday i hope you will visit viet nam and make a great video. love you
Thank you so much!! : ) I hope to visit Vietnam some day soon.
Great inspirational story when you realized basketball got you nowhere, you changed gears. Not many can do it , whether it be basketball or drugs or alcohol. See more of you! This format is also okay.
Just in last few weeks I have started to watch vblogs. Mark in Thailand lead me to you. This kind of presentation was nice to get to know how your life is. The white board should never be used again. Nice to see your path.
WoW Gareth, Great story. we should go salsa dancing some time =) saludos y abrazos desde San Diego!
Awesome sauce! You're boy Ray from the Philippines. Sending this message to you just to let you know I like your stuff. You're content is both spontaneous and real. I'm envious yet inspired by how you've come to discover and create your vocation. Travel to Townie. 3 thumbs up!
I stumbled upon your video fro Molokai and I thought it would be cool to watch since like you said no one ever goes there or has heard of it. But fortunately it was the first Hawaiian island I had ever went to and The Big island being the other that I spent any amount of time on. So I figured we have that I common and then I watched this and I as well am from a very small town (35 in my graduation class)! So I subscribed I am now a fan, I expect to see cool videos... lets do this! If you ever need a good yoga teacher let me know I'm your gal. Peace
Thank you so much for the message and for following along Natalie! And you have no idea how much I need more yoga in my life... I'm so inflexible!
Hahh..i enjoy watching your old videos. Very raw, genuine. 😊😊 keep inspiring people.
Hello Gareth, I am filipina. I am one of ur subscriber and follower. I am addicted all of ur videos especially in Philippines. In short I am your avid fan. I wish I can see you in Philippines. To meet you in real would be my greatest accomplishment in life.
Legend, keep up the good work mate 👊👊👊
Always appreciate your support Johnny!
Kid, you know how to brand yourself. Good for you.
HLT 4 life hahaha. Glad to see your all your successes, dude. Congrats
Thank you for sharing your story, very inspiring. I just subscribed and will be following your journey...
This VDO is mean a lot for me. Thank you for sharing your great experience. And so I already apply for your fan club. 👍🏻❤️🙏🏻
Love you big brother! This is a great story, I could me across to this wonderful video after I watched tons of them on your channel and Steve's too.
I enjoyed this. Kudos to you for putting your story out there. It was interesting and earnest. I love that you worked for Kiva! Your vids on Iceland and Norway are giving me life while I'm kind of in one place at this time. I came off a big 5 country trip 9 mos ago - but.... that's too long heheh.
Very inspiring story thank you for sharing... I really enjoyed listening to your travel and experience. Thanks G.L.
That was a very inspiring life story of you so far looking for happiness in your life. I wish I could do that as well. Thank you for sharing. Cheers!
Hi! Sou do Brasil e te admiro muito! Abraços!!!
Obrigado cara!
Gareth Leonard Wooooow 😊
Gareth Leonard obrigado!
You are such a legend, l love the small town to big thing stories
Very inspiring.. makes me realize that am not alone on questioning where I wanna be in my life.. thanks for sharing
Just freaking awesome! Why am I just finding your channel!
I'm not sure, but I'm glad you did. 👊
Another amazing and inspiring vlog/story Gareth.. Love to all our Moms. Your Mom is pretty. Perseverance, teamwork, hardwork, goal-oriented, positive attitude (good vibes only eh :-D), resilience, and kindness, will lead you to success and can travel/go places.
Just found your channel. This Episode rounds it up really well. Keep up the great job and keep inspiring other people to explore.
Thank you for sharing your story! Where are you off to next?!
Berit Young hopefully some place warm! It is freezing up here in New York at the moment ☃️
I love your travel videos on Japan you give great tips and tourist advice, planning to go there next year but still choosing on what city to go to, any advice?
Thank you for sharing your story - sláinte from Ireland
Good for you.Yes go &do more of this video .Very nice video clip. I meant that's awesome whatever you want to do.just don't give up
Wow, so cool, thank you for posting this, inspiring indeed😊,after 7years in varsity I'm finally taking my first step towards my travel dream. Going on a solo trip to Japan😍,a bit scared as so is my momz but it's going to be life changing... Crossing fingers.
That was so interesting! I'm always telling my kids to follow their heart. I'll have to show them this video.
Awesome Sonja!!
I'm in trying follow my heart
You are my inspiration Gareth
Thank you my friend!
the best guideman i have never seen before, good luck and wish to meet you to a small interview for my new book. its my pleasuer to write about you in one page as a limited place ....
It's fun to see how much different your style has changed since this video.