My American Big Tour
15 months from North to South America
American Big Tour was my first extensive journey
My first serious, long and well-prepared trip took place in 1996. I had traveled around Europe several times before, for more than a month. However, from a serious backpacker’s perspective, those journeys were merely a warm-up for my trans-American crossing from New York City to Argentina and then back to Peru.
There was no internet, no smart phones and no digital sources of information at that time. I relied on Lonely Planet guides, National Geographic magazines, books from a local library, a lot of imagination and on-the-spot improvisations.
Fascination with pre-Columbian civilizations
During a three-month period of study and work in London, I developed a keen interest in Mesoamerican pre-Columbian cultures, sparked by a compelling book that chronicled the histories of the Aztecs, Mayas, Toltecs, and other significant civilizations that were later devastated by European conquerors. The Incas in Ecuador and Peru exhibited comparable achievements.
This experience inspired the thought:
“Why not undertake an overland expedition to visit these extraordinary locations and visit other countries along the route?”
After an extensive period of preparation, the long-anticipated day for my flight across the Atlantic finally came, signaling the start of my worldwide adventure – the American Big Tour.
I had a desire to travel by motorbike; however, I was aware from day one that this was practically impossible. The significant barriers included bureaucratic challenges at the borders, impassable roads during the rainy season, and high expenses. My budget was exceedingly tight, since I faced considerable financial losses in the last month before departure. Nevertheless, I managed to gain support from several sponsors. I also began writing for newspapers and reporting for the main radio station in Slovenia.
I explored the east coast of the USA by public transport, took a drive-away option from Philly to Portland in Oregon and arrived to Los Angeles on the legendary Greyhound bus. It was a challenge to buy a motorbike compatible with my budget and expectations to cross the continent.
The journey took me through the national parks of the West Coast and Texas, before continuing with a three-month drive around Mexico – one of the true highlights of my American Big Tour.
Upon my return to California, I sold my motorcycle. Due to visa restrictions, I was unable to proceed to Guatemala on a motorbike and switched to public transport.
Learning Spanish and falling in love with Latin America
I learned Spanish in Guatemala, climbed most of the pyramids of pre-Columbian civilizations in Mesoamerica, avoided Darian gap jungle in Panama by a hazardous boat trip through San Blas islands to northern part of Colombia.
The lands that once formed the Inca Empire – Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia – fascinated me with their blend of indigenous culture, bustling cities, breathtaking natural wonders, and hospitable people.
In the Atacama Desert, the driest desert on Earth, located in Chile, I encountered one of the fellow countrymen on my trip.
I have developed a deep connection with Central America and South America, engaging with the region on personal, cultural, romantic, and business levels. Upon reaching Foz de Iguazu, located at the border between Brazil and Argentina, I felt a transformation into a half-Latino. Unfortunately, the strong currencies of both Brazil and Argentina made visiting these countries quite costly, which posed a challenge given my limited financial resources.
The American Big Tour had a profound influence on my life. When I returned to my hometown, I realized I had evolved into a different person. My colleagues were just finishing their university education, whereas I had already accumulated numerous memorable experiences. I struggled to reconnect with them. Fortunately, this trip and my Spanish skills opened the door for new job opportunities.
When I returned to my hometown, I realized I had evolved into a different person. My colleagues were just finishing their university education, whereas I had already accumulated numerous memorable experiences. I struggled to reconnect with them. Fortunately, this trip and my Spanish skills opened the door for new job opportunities.
