Today, the Gallivance Blog is officially one year old. On this day, one year ago, we couldn’t have been busier or more excited. We were moving out of our Charleston apartment, preparing for our RTW, setting the autopilot switches for our personal business, and struggling to get our blog set up.
Now, one year later, the blog is going tickety-boo, and we’re having great fun with it. Before Gallivance, we both had blogs we followed, but neither of us had any real experience at actually writing and maintaining a blog. The learning curve was steep, but we’re so glad we persevered. It’s a fun hobby which has enriched our lives, and hopefully, has given our family, friends, and readers a bit more insight into our life … and the world.
And after 225 posts and more than 13,500 views from readers in over 30 countries, we’ve learned that our blog is great for:
1. Getting the Word Out.
A blog is an excellent communication tool, for travelers and non-travelers alike. In the past, keeping family and friends up-to-date on our wandering lifestyle has been problematic. Now, they just visit the blog, and know exactly where we are, and what we’re up to.
2. Learning from a Digital Diary.
It’s both a journal and a great learning tool that enhances our travel experiences. Preparing for and writing a post requires research, planning, and more attention to details than just a casual visit to a destination.
3. Hearing from our Peeps.
We’ve re-connected with a number of family and friends since we started the blog. With the help of Facebook, and other social networks, our blog posts have re-kindled old relationships.
4. Giving Pointers from the Road.
It’s a good way to disseminate travel tips and information, such as: how to make ice on the road; the effectiveness of duct tape; and dengue fever recovery.
5. Treasuring Serendipity.
Blogging has made us appreciate serendipity. Any interesting place or event that we bump into, can be a topic, and that’s really fun.
6. Talking to the World.
We hear this everyday, but the blog has made us recognize the internet for the incredible global medium it is. On any given day, we receive views and comments from people all over the world.
7. Breakin’ the Ice.
When meeting new people on the road, Gallivance has been a great ice-breaker, and a number of our contacts still follow along.
In ten days, we’re leaving for a three-week trip to the Baltic. We’re making a return visit to Helsinki, Finland, and are excited about three new countries, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Of course, you’ll hear all about it right here on Gallivance.
In the meantime, we’d like to thank our loyal followers for hanging in there with us. With the daily deluge of information that everyone is forced to deal with, we’re happy and flattered that each of you takes the time to visit our blog. Thanks.
Ya’ll Come Back!
Terri and James
GALLIVANCE 