Where Have I Been?

I have wanderlust, an insatiable desire to explore the world and discover new places, cultures, and experiences. This fervent passion for travel ignited within me when I joined the Navy back in 1982. At the age of 22, I was a young man from Ohio, having ventured outside my home state only a handful of times. My life took a dramatic turn as I embarked on a journey that would change my perspective forever. Over the next 15 years, my service in the Navy allowed me to visit dozens of ports in many countries, each stop offering a unique glimpse into different ways of life, rich histories, and breathtaking landscapes. I still vividly remember the first time I set foot in a foreign land, the thrill of the unknown palpable in the air as I stepped off the ship and into a vibrant new world.

When I eventually left the Navy, my sense of adventure did not fade; rather, it intensified. I found myself yearning for more experiences, more sights to see, and more people to meet. I began traveling more frequently, seeking out destinations that had long been on my mind. With every new journey, I felt more alive, and my travel bucket list began to grow exponentially. Now, as I reflect on my travels, it has become all about bucket-list travel—those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that I have always dreamed of, from standing atop the Great Wall of China to watching the sunrise over the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.

Here's a list of where I have been so far—54 incredible destinations that have each left an indelible mark on my heart and soul. This extensive list includes fascinating places such as Japan and South Korea, which I am eagerly anticipating visiting in June '25. Each location holds its own stories and adventures, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, and the rich history of Seoul to the beautiful landscapes of Jeju Island. The anticipation of exploring these new cultures and immersing myself in their traditions fills me with excitement. The journey continues, and I look forward to adding even more stamps to my passport, each representing a new chapter in my ongoing adventure.

Antigua and Barbuda

Australia

Bahamas

Bahrain

Barbados

Belize

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Canada

Croatia

Cuba

Czechia (Czech Republic)

Djibouti

Dominica

Dominican Republic

Egypt

France

Germany

Grenada

Guatemala

Haiti

Holy See

Honduras

Iraq

Ireland

Israel

Italy

Jamaica

Japan

Kenya

Kuwait

Laos

Maldives

Mexico

Morocco

Netherlands

Norway

Oman

Portugal

Qatar

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Saudi Arabia

Slovakia

Slovenia

Somalia

South Korea

Spain

Thailand

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkey

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

United States of America