Name: Nik vWurzbach
City, Country: Düsseldorf, Germany
Sent: 5.12 PM - 11/15 2002
Hi Ramon,
cool thing! You are a real modern global nomad. Please stay save and show the
world that human beings are not so bad at all. Your courage is great.
Good luck.
Nik v. Wurzbach
Name: Sharlini
City, Country: Kuala Terengganu
Sent: 6.30 PM - 11/14 2002
Hi Ramon!
It's nice to see a new and improved site after months of wondering what happened
to you. I hope your back gets better and that your health will keep improving
since you quit smoking.
Take care and enjoy!
Sharlini
Name: Leonard Stephen Ondu
Majakil
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 12.39 PM - 11/5 2002
Sorry, me a neanderthal dragging everyone into different posting. Bret, a post
is better than no post. May I repeat what has been written somewhere in www.
related to lmsfad.com author. Yes indeed and I believed, he says life is about
communication, understanding and respect. If you don't communicate, you can't
understand them. If you don't understand them, you can't respect them.
Why spent trillions and trillions on seconds(time) or whatever resources on
space explorations and communication development with alien beings when we
can't even be in rhythm and tempo with your fellow humankind in your own
backyard.
My belief is that lmsfad.com is just about that. To communicate, understand as
well as respect our nearest neighbours (you and me). Californian orange juice
is incomparable or irreplaceable but me a surviving native of Dusun tribe still
and forever prefer the polluted Borneo mineral water. Why? There is no way to
survive the situation here, too. Might as well be in the exodus. I believe that
there are millions similar to Ramon daily routine except on a different mode
selection. In actual fact, if you are in 'an island life'(by Micheal Franks),
you have no way out except collect all those empty mineral bottles with caps
and tied them altogether and sail out but still you are in this home planet
earth. The next and always the best thing is still what Ramon has said on
communication, understanding and respect.
Indeed and I believe that as Tom Spence of Brimsmead predicts that BIG THINGS
will keep on happening to RAMON. Yes, he is the author and advocate of lmsfad. He
doesn't have to be graduated to be a journalist as he knows the story at the
horizon. My opinion is that, if Ramon is ok, everyone is ok too and vice versa,
because his life is made up of all of us.
Lots of Love,
LSOM always.
Name: donatella
City, Country: milano, italy
Sent: 2.09 PM - 10/28 2002
hello! after quite a month, I can now get a connession to this website (last
week I tried, but there wasn't anything). the new design is nice, easy to be
read 'cause it looks like the old one. I've read the lines you've dropped on
the front page, ramon, and is nice to see that you go on with your
"usual" life. I thought that I'd missed lots of thinghs & reports
in this month but looks like it isn't. I'd like to send a greet to all the
"old" writers here, I've just read the messages on this board.
ciao, donatella
Name: Diane,
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 4.06 PM - 10/26 2002
Its just as well you have a sense of humour, Ramon! Cyber beggar? Out of
curiosity I paid a visit to some of those other sites and believe me, you're
not in the same league. The difference is that you treat your
"benefactors" with respect. Those journos need to do their homework.
Name: Rahul Mehra
City, Country: jaipur, India
Sent: 6.17 AM - 10/26 2002
I see your site great !!!
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.51 AM - 10/25 2002
Brian,
Interesting thought regarding the name of Ramon's book. Perhaps a forum
discussion with ideas? It needs to be .... unique......like the project, but,
will a book with a title "letmestayforaday.com" catch buyers, or will
they think it's just another "dot com" book? ;-)
Then again, Ramon's pic on the front with a backpack will help. :-)
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.30 AM - 10/24 2002
Hey hey hey! It's the same good ol' Ramon, with a brand new funky website!
Ramon, this new look site is great. I've started exploring, and will eventually
get to try all the things. Funny, just this morning en route to work, I was
wondering what you were up to, and when next you will set foot into the great
wilderness of the world.
It's good that you've started on the other part of your project - The Book. Any
ideas on a title yet? I s'pose it could simply be "Letmestayforaday.com".
Or do you have other ideas?
Will the book "bare all" in terms of specific things that happened
that you excluded from the daily reports? Will the people's names be
included...? All the details? I remember your comments at my place about the
"freeloader" accusations from the press... :-)
Ramon, you keep working as hard as we know. Enjoy the travel break, and the
company of your friends.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 2.05 AM - 10/24 2002
Ramon,
You probably already know this, but photos are not available.
RAMON:
Yep, saw that after uploading everything, but didn't have the time to work
it out at that moment (had to go to work again, hehe). Now everything should be
working. Minor bugs could still be here and there.
I'll also recreate that 'click here for the visitor's book'-link. ;-)
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.56 AM - 10/24 2002
Hi Ramon and all,
Missed you, wondered what happened. As I was reading about the huge bill you
received from your provider, I thought I was going to have to open PayPal
again! :-) Glad to see you got it sorted. But I WAS ready to fire up PayPal for
ya! :-)
I like the new page design. Took me a bit to find the "Visitors"
link, as I was so used to seeing MessageBoard and Forum in the left side menu. I
have not tried the new message links, but read some. Pretty cool!!!!!!
Just one request. Hehehe, you know me, I am not shy! :-) Can you add back the
link here that lets one open the message board full screen? The one where it
said "If you don't see the messages, click "here"." The
little separate box and scrolling on the main message board is kind of
difficult to review sometimes. And my mouse scroll wheel gets real confused as
to where I am located with multiple scroll bars (3 currently on screen). Me and
my mouse are dizzy trying to find where we are. :-)
Sounds like you are busy working for a while to pay the rent and daily
expenses. But, good fun "working" also. Enjoy your time bartending
and DJ'ing, it sounds great and well deserved. I gather you'll be home through
the New Year at least, since you have a gig booked. We want reports though,
just 'cause you are home, you are not off the hook, hahaha!
Enjoy!!
Regards,
Joan
Name: Evamaria
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 9.03 PM - 10/23 2002
I am glad to see Ramon's site again and hope that the messageboard will soon
come back to life.
My best wishes for your back, your book and other plans!
Evamaria
Name: Anne
City, Country: Trang,Thailand
Sent: 1.36 PM - 10/14 2002
hello, ur trip sounds fun hope u enjoy it!!
i hope sometimes i'll get that like u ;-)
xxxxxxxx@xxx.xxx
Bye Bye
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis
Sent: 6.53 AM - 10/13 2002
I can't see them either. But I can see Aug. 31 pix fine.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.53 AM - 10/13 2002
Just wondering if anyone else is having trouble getting the Sept 1 pictures
from daily reports? I am not getting any displayed.
Thanks,
Joan
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA, USA
Sent: 6.48 PM - 10/11 2002
It's a message board! That means you leave a message to all who read the board.
It's very much like a chat except you aren't in real time with the other
people. I'm with Joan on this one. What harm was there trying to lead someone
else away from the board and into the forum where they can continue an ongoing
conversation. Sorry LSOM if you didn't get that post.
Bret
Name: Gert M.
City, Country: Belgium
Sent: 11.41 AM - 10/11 2002
I think Ramon or his backup team has good reasons to keep the messageboard
proper by deleting posts and simple responses. Probably it has nothing to do
with other readers OR the project if "A" is posting messages to say
hello again to "B" and "C". This ain't a chatbox. Thanks Ramon.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.32 AM - 10/11 2002
OK, I am stepping away now, as I see too many posts deleted for whatever
reason.
I'll keep checking for Ramons travels, but can't participate here any longer
because posts are just randomly deleted, including simple responses such as I
posted welcoming Cynthia/Beth here.
The threads are being lost, as are the posts and "communications",
thus, I am leaving for now, until Ramon and his Backup team want to change this
to a moderated board BEFORE things are posted, versus letting things be posted
and then disappear.
If you want a censored/moderated board, do that, no problem. But don't allow
things to be posted and then delete them.
Joan
Name: Charles
City, Country: San Diego, California
Sent: 12.11 AM - 10/10 2002
I have a confession to make as well. I'm really "Charley, San Diego."
:-) ;o)
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis
Sent: 11.02 PM - 10/9 2002
That's good to know, Cynthia. Welcome back with your true identity. Honesty is
good even when inconvenient.
Name: Cynthia
City, Country: USA
Sent: 10.52 PM - 10/9 2002
I see everyone is here, Brian, Margaret, Bret, Joan, Charles. I have a
confession to make. I'm really "Beth, Anytown USA" I felt I had worn
out my real name on this message board. Hi
everybody!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.15 AM - 10/9 2002
Hi all
Hey, why the bun-fight? The last about 20 or so posts reflect society at large,
and through it we can understand why we have wars. It is through lack of
respect.
All those who are criticising Ramon, or anyone else, please, stop. Reflect on
what you are saying. Reflect on what Ramon is doing.
We all have some form of daily activity. It might be filing invoices, it might
be driving trucks, maybe managing a company. Or, it could be showing those who
want to learn exactly how kind and benevolent the world can be, by travelling
around the world and reporting the findings and adventures on the internet.
Whatever it is, we all do something.
If you are jealous then you need to take a hard look at yourself, and decide
what you can do to fix yourself. Let Ramon be. He is working damn hard at this,
and like Joan and others have said, he needs a break, just like everyone else
does.
Yes, it is hard, but my mother brought me up under the maxim of "If you've
got nothing nice to say, then keep your mouth shut!". It works. No-one is
perfect, and the sooner we accept that, and have respect for each other, the
sooner we will live in peace.
Ramon, you keep going, dude. Those who matter are right there with you. The
critical folk will hopefully learn one day that their criticism achieves
nothing other than tarnishing their name.
Sala kahle.
Brian
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.16 AM - 10/9 2002
To All, New and Old,
Yes, Ramon does edit messages here as well as the Forum. Actually, they are not
"edited", they are deleted if inappropriate in the opinion of Ramon
or his backup team. I've come to accept that, since this is a unique site, not
like a chat room or a Newsgroup. Even though the Forum was designed (I thought)
for more off topic things, it still is prone to deletions. I've had a post or
two "deleted" there.
So, we should all just think of these services for a Message Board and a Forum
as "moderated". I.E., censored. No problem, it's the nature of the
site. Sometimes I have had entries zapped, but hey, it's a moderated group. If
it was a total free for all like unmoderated internet newsgroups, it could
become really a "world wide mess" and potentiall quite nasty. So
though I don't agree with some of the edits, I respect the right of Ramon and
his team to manage this site, their site. I just move on, still loving the
project and everything about it, and all the work it takes to make this happen.
Keep on truckin' Ramon. And I hope you find a new clothing sponsor.
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis
Sent: 12.18 AM - 10/9 2002
To Beth:
I admire Ramon in many ways; I'm generally an appreciative person and think his
project and outlook are inspiring. I also criticize him from time to time
(maybe I like playing devil's advocate!), and in fact have had messages
deleted. I don't mind. His job is to keep his website clear and effective. He
also doesn't need to defend himself against nay-sayers any more than he already
does; things have a way of all coming out in the wash. Anyway, I do appreciate
this website, the project, and also participation by readers such as you, Bret,
Joan, et al.
Like everyone else, I look forward to Round 2, whenever it begins. Meanwhile I
still like looking at old pictures in the daily reports, etc.
Name: Beth again
City, Country: Anytown, USA
Sent: 11.37 PM - 10/8 2002
Margaret, you are truly Ramon's champion. Do you wish that Ramon would defend
himself more against the nay-sayers?
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
Sent: 4.33 PM - 10/8 2002
I would like a rest if I am tired of anything polluting my very soul. Where?
Quiet atmosphere and with fresh air. Live for working or work for living -
neither, Ramon. It supposed to be a free world but look - birds are for the
wide sky and they are still being caged. It's only the tip of an ice berg. Working
is a slavery trade if there isn't any interest in the welfare of the human race
or mankind. Even in the airforce, if it is meant to destroy others, is also a
slave of the political gimmick or propaganda set out to entice human to one
direction in life but the end product is always set to enrich those who think
they are powerful, educated, better off or you name it. Hacking? - well,
prevention is better than cure. See what I meant. To be good, be punctual(in
updating). Show the world the beauty, the goodness as well as the truth about
not wasting even a second of your life. As I mentioned earlier, I would take a
rest if I am tired. Every breath of your life is a blessing. I am not here to
add insult to any quarter injury but my personal opinion and experience.
Yes, hacking is not a good work for living neither do DELETING people opinions,
views, perspectives, ideas which are meant for sharing amongst us.
Mr. Ramon, this website is also my site. Thanks as I can post messages which I
think are constructive. Yes, definitely it is a free world if there isn't any
toll in life.
To Airforce - spiritual warfare? (I can see you), I am one of the generous guys
who will sent you tons and tons of Borneo water buffoloes' shit.
Thanks Ramon and please do forget the CHALLENGE for the time being.
JOY,
LSOM always.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 6.26 AM - 10/8 2002
John,
Don't know that you are a true follower, because if you were you would know
that Ramon does indeed deserve his break. In addition, though I was awaiting
the last reports from Australia, I understood that Ramon only posted some pics
and was just taking a break before writing those reports. He said he would
write them and I trust he will, he's just a tad behind. No big deal.
Give him a break. I know sometimes I cannot even keep up with my work and
little daily life emails, let alone the reports Ramon has commmitted to
writing, and has fulled that committment 95% of the time. So we are missing the
last reports, we'll survive. Consider the VCR screwed up, and we'll just have
to wait for the next installment. :-) It's a great novel, continuing saga. I'm
hangin' on for the next chapter for sure!
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 6.14 AM - 10/8 2002
I get 160 hrs, 20 days (4 weeks) plus 10 holidays a year, so that's 30 days, 6
weeks. :-) And if vacation is not used, I can carry over to a limit of 240 hrs
the next year, 30 days. Meaning I could have 7 weeks vacation not including the
10 holidays time off. :-)
Ramon, I work for a living, I don't live to work. It pays the bills. I like my
job, but would not shed any tears if I no longer had to work! :-) Anyone have
the upcoming winning lottery numbers? Hehehe!
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Ted
City, Country: Adelaide Australia
Sent: 6.11 AM - 10/8 2002
I'm with you John, we were promised closure of the last trip and it didn't
happen. Ramon's credibility is on the line here. Start a job...finish it.
Ted
Name: Beth
City, Country: Anytown, USA
Sent: 12.58 AM - 10/8 2002
Wow, I get 18 days after 13 years on the job. I need to move to London
RAMON:
But do we all live for working or work for living?
Name: Charles
City, Country: San Diego, California
Sent: 10.06 PM - 10/7 2002
Karen, do you seriously get 25 days of annual leave per year? If so, I need to
move to London. I'm lucky if I get 13 days off a year.
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis
Sent: 3.57 PM - 10/7 2002
OK John, where may we read about all that you have learned in your travels
around the world? Ramon is a journalist by trade. A communicator. How about
you? Not being sarcastic; I am truly interested in your travels, too, if you have
a forum whereby we may read about them. Thanks.
Name: John
City, Country: London
Sent: 1.48 PM - 10/7 2002
PS QUOTE from Ramon himself!!!'Next week another update. See ya!' posted 14
Sept, It is now 07 October, that's a long week Ramon.....
RAMON: Good one John! But it doesn't mean I am lazy at all. I just
happen to have a life in The Netherlands too. And am I happy with that! New
quote: Updates will be published when they are ready.
Name: John
City, Country: London
Sent: 1.43 PM - 10/7 2002
No it wasn't a joke. And i am not jealous, i travelled for 3 years around the
world but worked hard during that time to pay for my travels, in banks,
offices, shops, pubs, fruit picking etc. I must hand it to ramon for coming up
with such a unique idea however, it seems to me that he is running from
reality, wasn't it his intent to travel for 5 years non stop?? Maybe i read it
wrong. It is so easy for him to ride on the back of the media, I have not read
one report whereby he is really roughing it and when things get any bit tough
he seems to complain, is he always tired?????? Or the other option is to fly
home. What he doing now? He hasn't written a report for weeks, leave the
readers wait until he decides to take off again.. SAD!!!! I won't be waiting
around to see what happens next.............Ciao
RAMON
If I would be totally honest, I would start EVERY report with the words "I
am so tired", but wouldn't that be getting very boring? So I don't.
John, sure you watch some TV. See my project as a TV-show on the Internet. One
season it's ON and one season it's OFF. And of course you get a cliffhanger and
then you have to wait untill the next series.
And yes, certain things I have said in the beginning have changed. I never
expected this project to be able to get that big. Blame it on my own big mouth
(I hope to grow up when I get old).
And, you don't have to sit and wait and visit this website at the moment, just
submit to the newsletter and I'll email you if there is any news. Good day.
Name: Karen
City, Country: London
Sent: 10.02 PM - 10/6 2002
John in London: think you might want to reconsider your statement after reading
the rest of the website as I think Ramon has bene doing very well over the last
1,5 years and deserves a break (don't we all live our 25 days annual leave,
even after only working 40 hours a week, unlike Ramon who is on the road 24/7
when he is travelling!).
RAMON:
Oh, just ignore John. Enough people visit my site without enough knowledge of
what is going on Exactly and write it off in emails or on this board. It just
tells us all enough about those kind of people, doesn't it?
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis
Sent: 3.24 AM - 10/5 2002
John in London . . is it a joke? Ramon lives one of the most real lives of
anyone I know! He earns his keep and his way. Must be a joke.
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 4.29 PM - 10/4 2002
Poor John, he's just jealous. :) It's too bad that Ramon is at home, we miss
him!
:)
Name: John
City, Country: London
Sent: 3.47 PM - 10/4 2002
Ramon, i think you are pathetic, you bum your way around the world and keep
flying home for a bit of TLC, who pays for your flights home???? You should get
a job and get a life........Try living in the real world!
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 4.22 AM - 10/1 2002
Hi Ramon,
I hope you are enjoying your time off. And relaxing, etc. with your parents,
family and friends. Any hints on where you will go next, or when? Just curious.
Hope all is well with you.
Cheers,
Joan
P.S. I am not into this Forum debate, it is too stressful! :-) I'll back off
from that, just want to enjoy your site and travels and people, etc.
Name: Kyleigh
City, Country: Perth Australia
Sent: 10.33 AM - 9/17 2002
Just something small - it isn't 'small-puppy' syndrome, it is 'tall poppy'. Poppy
as in the small red flower. The theory is that when one person gets ahead,
rises above the other poppies in the field, the others cut him down. It can be
a sad reality in OZ, but thankfully it is not everyone who does this!
Name: Gerhard
City, Country: Fortaleza, Brasil
Sent: 9.56 AM - 9/17 2002
Hi Ramon!,
Nice interview at radio 1 in Holland last Monday evening. I've heard it by
internet. It was nice to hear you travel statement.
Keep travelling!
Greetings,
Joris. (volgend jaar januari weer
Alkmaar)
Name: Sarah
City, Country: Perth Australia
Sent: 3.37 AM - 9/16 2002
Hi Ramon,
Just letting you know on your daily update for the 14th of September you were
saying something about "small puppy syndrome". Its actually called
"Tall Poppy Syndrome" but you got the idea right.
See YA
Name: Margaret S.
City, Country: Minneapolis area, USA
Sent: 8.23 PM - 9/14 2002
Thank you, Ramon, for the Ketchup song. It's great! A nice way to share a
little bit of what's going on where you are now, home sweet home. Welcome home!
Name: donatella
City, Country: milano, italy
Sent: 8.03 PM - 9/14 2002
hello ramon, I've just read the latest report. just a joke: during my holiday,
my boyfriend and me were surrounded on the beach by french, english.. and of
course there were german people too. my boyfriend joked sayin' that germanic
tongues sounds like chewing stones (no offence for any german or northern
european!!), so now I was just wonderig how funny could be a netherlander
singing the impossible "asereje"...
RAMON:
Actually, the song "Asereje" is sung by the three Spanish (!)
sisters with the surname Tomate, so their groupname is Ketchup. As asereje is
their major hit in Europe, the song is also easily called The Ketchup Song,
because our Spanish isn't that great. The rest of the language in the song is
English and something fantasy. The song is about songs you don't understand.
ps: to cynthia from colorado. excuse me if I take the liberty of intervening in
this point between you & ramon. no doubt that some of the pictures are out
of place (the one on the tower, the one with the underfed child), anyway I've
been following this site so far and I've never found anything made with the aim
of offend no one else (at the contrary, I've often noticed here tolerance).
-dona
Name: donatella
City, Country: milano, italy
Sent: 7.09 PM - 9/13 2002
great most of the pictures! :D congrats to the artists!
:) donatella
Name: Cronan
City, Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 12.14 PM - 9/13 2002
Hey Ramon,
I know you are now on a bit of a holiday, but are you going to finish your
australian reports?
Missing everything since 28th Aug, it is like the last few pages of a book
being torn out....want to get to the end.
I have been following the reports from Day 1 and hate missing out.
Have a good break,
C.
RAMON:
You are absolutely right, Cronan. I am back home, have time and can do what
I want, so I taking lots of breaths around here. But don't worry, the reports
are really coming up soon.
Tomorrow there is even an update coming up from my first week back home!
Name: Thorsten
City, Country: Krefeld, Germany
Sent: 5.45 PM - 9/11 2002
All the best for your trip. In 1997 I tried out to go to Spain without money. It
worked!!!!
Now I am in Egypt and I am going to go back to Germany, again without anything.
If I have had a flat, I would invite you. Hope to meet you in any time Thorsten
Name: Juut
City, Country: Groningen, NL
Sent: 4.44 PM - 9/11 2002
Heee Ramon! Still doing great! Take care and lots of love!! Judith de Groot
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 4.21 AM - 9/11 2002
Ramon,
I just logged on to say "Bless you all as we remember the tragedy of Sept
11, 2001." Thank you for your memorial picture and words here as well.
Peace on Earth! Bless you all! May we never forget!
Joan
Name: H-Alien
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 1.58 PM - 9/9 2002
Don't forget to run around among the cows while you're back home...it's a must
;)
Name: James
City, Country: Arnold, CA, USA
Sent: 6.56 AM - 9/9 2002
Ramon,
Welcome back or welcome to there. Sounds like in all events the other side is
coming up. I have truly enjoyed these past many months since first beginning to
follow and share with others your travels. Hopefully you'll rest mind and body,
and then, when the itch to go needs to be scratched again, you''l begin again
to enlighten us all. But if that's not for awhile, I 'll continue to surf for
other interesting web loggers.
Besides meeting new people, I think I'll miss the sunsets most.
J
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.12 AM - 9/9 2002
Hi Ramon
Welcome home! Don't hassle too much about your Romanian cretin, he probably
does not represent the rest of that country's population. Also, you can think
of it as a lesson in life. The benefits of which will be a stronger website, a
new skill acquired in the securing of websites and their servers, and you'll be
a brilliant chef with all those cakes. (Or you'll keep a bakery in business for
a while!)
You keep strong, Ramon. Get a physio to attend to your back, and relax until
you and your back are ready for more travels.
All the best, Ramon, we're all right behind you.
Sala kahle
Brian
Name: Roger
City, Country: East Lansing USA
Sent: 6.07 AM - 9/9 2002
Ramon.... what a great website and concept. I've started my own website these
last months... in fact next year, I'm giving up on my career to travel full
time... but I don't know that I could do the travel without a budget thing. But
if you have some pointers or places that I need to see, let me know. Here's my
website: http://www.thisworldtraveler.com
Roger
Name: Joan
City, Country: Ipswich England
Sent: 4.18 PM - 9/8 2002
Hi Ramon Its a terrible thing to happen to you , but dont worry , its not the
end of the world. You will be back after a good rest ,relating your adventures
in the next country. Keeping us on the edge of our seats, and making us laugh
at the things you get up to. Make the most of this break and being with your
family, and return refreshed because we cant wait to hear more about these
wonderful countries and nice people that you meet.
All the best Joan
Name: hanneng
City, Country: Singapore
Sent: 2.35 PM - 9/8 2002
I am glad that letmestayforaday.com is back online now. Ramon, tt's good to
take this opportunity to fix-up some security bugs, and revamp the sites.
Keep us posted, and we following you.
Best of luck.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 7.00 AM - 9/8 2002
What do you think Ramon? Is airforce for real? If so I do admire that he is
owning up to his irresposibility. We shall see in the coming days airforce how
everyone feels. I would suggest if people want to discuss this further, we take
it to the forum.
Sala kahle
Bret
Name: airforce
City, Country: romania
Sent: 7.12 PM - 9/7 2002
As you can see my friends...
I am not afraid to reveal my true identity ..
I will provide you with my real name and adress ...
As i said .. i`m willing to eaven go to prison for my actions ..
I am not afraid of this .. But in this country if u do only good things u are
prosecuted .. g33z .. my mother died when i was 14 ... my old man is 70 years
old ..
and u guys judge me so hard ..
I made a mistake ... as i can see it will be solved .. all that i can say is
yes i am sorry about this .. and no i dont live my life through a computer ..
g33z .. i cant eaven afford one ..the are too expensive for my pocket ...But
think of what i could of done if i had a PC ... and dont think bad!
I`m gonna mail everyone i hacked ... or i am about to .. and tell`em whats
wrong with they`re servers ..
If anywone wants to eaven consider that i desirve a chance in this gawd damned
"moral" world .. mail me at airforce@undernet.sh
btw ... my real name is Peter Pavel Eugen and i am located in Romania!
I am sorry ... and i appoligise to all of you:((
Name: Jasper van Dijk
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 12.31 AM - 9/7 2002
Hi Remon,
What a mess... getting hacked, I don't know why those stupid guys (or girls)
want to do that? let them think of a better way to get some attention...
Hope you get some rest back home, and wach your back.
regards, Jasper
Name: inge dietz
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Sent: 11.35 PM - 9/6 2002
Hallo Ramon, for many month I enjoyed your reports. hopefully you are back
soon. Best wishes inge
Name: Acadia
City, Country: USA
Sent: 9.18 PM - 9/6 2002
Glad you are home safe and well, Ramon. The rest will do you good. I am looking
forward to what will come next.
So sorry about the site SNAFU here. As the saying goes "It takes all
kinds".
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 6.46 PM - 9/6 2002
Ramon, good to hear you had a safe journey home. Enjoy the rest, your deserve
it. Looking forward to the updates once things get straightened out.
Airforce, if your apologies are sincere, then they should directed not only to
Ramon, but to all of us that come hear daily to enjoy Ramons travels. You
really need to sit back and reflect on your moral standards. I think you know
what is right and wrong, but your enthusiasm for what you have learned has been
skewed. H-Alien is right, use your talents in a more meaningful way.
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 5.00 PM - 9/6 2002
Enjoy the stroopwafels, pannekoeken met stroop, Wieckse Witte etcetera!
Name: hariette
City, Country: the netherlands
Sent: 4.11 PM - 9/6 2002
welkom thuis Ramon!
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 3.33 PM - 9/6 2002
I would say that all of these postings, rantings, and etc is exactly what the
hacker wants. Maybe the only way this hacker can live is thru his/her computer
and cannot make it in real society. Don't give him the satisfaction anymore of
acknowledgement; for that is what he needs. Let's talk about physics or the
pilot strike in France..or just Ramon in general. :) Worthy subjects.
Name: No1
City, Country: usa
Sent: 2.21 PM - 9/6 2002
what happened to my last message?
Anyway, once AGAIN, good luck Ramon.
RJ
Name: Ramon's mother
City, Country: Holland
Sent: 1.25 PM - 9/6 2002
Nevertheless hacking he is now home safe. May be for a short period but we are
glad he is with us.
Name: H-Alien
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 12.56 PM - 9/6 2002
in short you have 2 categories
1) point and go "uuuuh a weakness"
2) strengthen that weakness
right now you belong to category 1, while to accomplish your goal as you stated
being in category 2 would be far more logical.
Name: H-Alien
City, Country: Rotterdam
Sent: 12.51 PM - 9/6 2002
Airforce that somebody makes it easy for you to brake in, is not a valid
argument to actually go ahead with the brake-in, it's your own choice you broke
in, you're responsible no one else, simple methodolgy.
And the choice of your "victim" is pretty low if you ask me, Ramon
travelling around the entire world, hardly ever at home, working on a unique
project was a extremely easy target, and what do you gain? is this website of
major importance? does "the society" notice this hack? nope only a
small group of people who happened to follow Ramon's life, wow what a major
difference you made.
Easy target, nothing to gain, wouldn't you rather show your expertise as a
security advisor and make sure that people like you can not hack sites. From
your reasoning I conclude that what you are trying to accomplish is a safer
environment on the internet. Now instead of pointing out those weaknesses, why
don't you go and really make a difference, really go for what you are trying to
accomplish, why don't you use your expertise as a security advisor and
strengthen the weaknesses instead of pointing out, that's a far more honourable
job, it will do you good :)
Name: Leo
City, Country: from Holland
Sent: 10.34 AM - 9/6 2002
What an %*$hole that Airforce dude, just now yo're travelling to Holland...
Name: Ang
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 5.58 AM - 9/6 2002
Well said ToolkiT.. and I'll add my own opinion if I may.. You have to laugh
when Mr Hacker says in a previous message he didnt want to "destroy ones
dreams" HA!! Its going to take more than a hacked website to destroy
dreams.. especially the dreams of someone like Ramon.
I had the pleasure of meeting Ramon at the 'Make a Wish Foundation' charity
night. The money that was raised will make even more dreams possible for some
sick kids. What a great way to end his visit to Australia. I asked Ramon if HE
could have one wish granted, what would it be? The answer was nothing less than
what I expected "I would wish that I could make a wish every day"
What a answer! and what a night!
I want to say Hi to all the Dutchies I met that night at the Pumphouse, and
also to the guys from 'Dutch Online Promotions' who helped organise it all. I
hope everyone enjoyed it as much as I did.. :)
Name: ToolkiT
Sent: 2.13 AM - 9/6 2002
'Airforce'
Your logic makes no sense at all:"the only ones that are guilty are the
"experts" that configured the server my friend.. wich themselves
should be blamed for this shit ..
"
Thats like saying I have no responsebility of wrecking a car because I hotwired
it and ran it into a tree, but hey the guy didnt lock the boot and I could get
in the though the backdoor....
Or I can't be blamed for torching the place because I got in through a window
that was left slightly open...
Because something has a weak spot in its security (or no security at all for
that matter) does not give you the right to get in...
That you live in a poor country does not change that 1 bit. Non of this gives
you the right to break the law..
How about using your skills for something constructive? If you are such a
Unix/security expert go find a job using those skills...dont use it to trash
other peoples machines...
Trust me that will backfire on you...
"I never judged anywone my entire life .."
Yes you did, you Judged, sentenced and executed Ramon because of the security
loophole on his server...
"I also could of mailed Ramon.. and i have right after i /hack the server!
"
Why AFTER you hacked his system??? you could send him an email before you broke
the law..
"I wanted a legit shell at the server" the only 'legit' way to get
that is to contact Ramon and ask him for one... if you would have emailed him
instead of hacking him he may have offered you a (unpaid) 'job' as his security
advisor... which would look very good on your resume increasing your chances in
the real world...
Hacking a server of somebody who's on the road all the time and can't keep up
with every security exploid is not the biggest achievement as a hacker, but
thats off topic...
As for my Unix skills, you dont know me so you cant judge my Unix skills at
all...
Please realize that hacking in this way is a destructive way of life, use your
skills and energy for something positive...
p.s. using a spellchecker, you 'l33t' talk makes you sound like a
scriptkiddie...
Name: Brian B
City, Country: Raleigh, NC
Sent: 6.52 PM - 9/5 2002
Ramon, hope this server mess doesn't cause you too much worry. At least it came
at the end of your Australian trek instead of in the middle of it. Have a
relaxing break.
Brian B
Name: airforce
City, Country: nowhere
Sent: 6.23 PM - 9/5 2002
To Tollkit,
scriptkiddie my friend??
u have no ideea what i can do ...what harm i could do to so manny servers in
this gawd damned world ..
after all i donno why the heck i am condemned for this shit ..
the only ones that are guilty are the "experts" that configured the
server my friend.. wich themselves should be blamed for this shit ..
and about what i used to hack this server .. is something that i made myself ..
btw .. u call u`reself a guy that knows shit right??
why couldn`t you prevent this to happen??
ha??
tell me ... all of you ..
Ask ramon .. nothing was erased... nothing was damaged by me ..
My only mistake was makin` a psy on the server... a psy that was heavily
flooded ... thats all ..
So dont "scriptkiddie" my friend .. when u have no ideea what unix
means ..
One more time .. i tell to all of you !
Do not judge me too hard .. i have my guilt, but i have to live with that ..u
have no phukin` ideea how bad i feel for doing this ..
so dont lecture me about what good or bad .. u dont have this right!
i live from this shitty internet, i worked so hard to get here ..
I know stuff that u guys will never know .. becouse knowledge is power in our
days ..
But i live in a country where i cant eaven afford a PC .. Dont talk to me about
what is wrong or right when u guys dont eaven give a shit ...
I have done wrong to Ramon .. and i know that ... it is my mistake and i am
willing to accept the consequences!
So dont judge me!
I never judged anywone my entire life ..
P.S.: and yes .. i can be a guys friend ... but what chance do i have??
I also could of mailed Ramon.. and i have right after i /hack the server!
You can ask him!
I wanted a legit shell at the server .. g33z ppl ... think before u say
something!
Name: donatella
City, Country: milano, italy
Sent: 3.06 PM - 9/5 2002
hello ramon, after all the mess with the hacker (smart people everywhere...) I'd
like to wish you a good relaxing and funny time at your own home. stay well!
ciao, donatella
ps: also a greet to all the readers who often write on here (the so-called
"supporters") - ciao* dona
Name: Menno
City, Country: Beaumaris VIC Australia
Sent: 11.29 AM - 9/5 2002
Hey Ramon,
We crossed paths between Europe and Australia! I just returned from Holland
this morning, only to find that I can't read your post-Tassie reports at the
moment. Bugger....
Anyway, I reckon you must be happy now to be able to "recharge your
batteries" for a while, after all those travels, faces, life stories and
having to adapt in your daily role as guest. No place like home....
I have a deep respect for what you achieved and the way you achieved it, *your*
way! And I am glad to be part of that little community that helped make it
possible.
Regards,
Menno
"The way to stay sane is to be crazy now and then...."
Name: Ron from Dutch On-Line
City, Country: Sydney
Sent: 10.44 AM - 9/5 2002
Ramon,
Thanks for visiting Oz
I think raising $675 for the make a wish foundation is a good amount
Hope you enjoyed the whole country
Sally from Make a wish in Sydney send your info on the the Dutch Make a wish
foundation
The charity night was nice and relaxing
But do come back we have so many bitterballen, frikandellen en Grolsch beer
left over.
Have a safe trip home
From
Ron Ellen Bradley and all those nice people at the Let me stay for a day
charity night
PS Did you leave the Novotel mini bar on your last night as is or will I get a
bill haha
as you would say .......Its Good Night from Sydney ..........
Name: Perth Sales - McCaffertys
& Greyhound Pioneer
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 8.57 AM - 9/5 2002
Hi Ramon,
Firstly, I must say how saddened I was to hear about this 'airforce' character
and what occured with your web page.
Secondly, ditto for what Brian B - North Carolina says.
I hope your Charity night was a success. The kids at 'Make A Wish' will no
doubt be wishing for more 'stars' like Ramon. "when you wish upon a
star..."
Safe journeys on your way home.
By the time you get home you will probably need a holiday.
Nice to have met you and maybe we will meet again someday.
Kind Regards
From All The Team At McCaffertys and Greyhound Pioneer.
Name: Marc Howard
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Sent: 7.36 AM - 9/5 2002
Hi Ramon,
All the best for your coming journeys!
Was great to meet someone that has such a confidence in their own ability to
achieve your goals even in such a inhospitible place as the Australian Outback.
Will send you through a few cards soon!
Name: KlergyC
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 7.04 AM - 9/5 2002
Hey Dude. Sorry Some Di**Head Fu**ed Your Site Up. Hope Your Up Soon.
Safe Travels...
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Sent: 4.54 AM - 9/5 2002
From the postings below you might be able to
understand what happened with the original content of this website. Hopefully
the backup will be up and running again after the coming weekend.
At the moment I am about to board the plane from Sydney to Hong Kong and to
arrive in The Netherlands again on Friday.
See ya back on the real website soon. ;-)
Ramon
Name: ToolkiT
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 2.06 AM - 9/5 2002
To Airforce, who posted below:
With friends like that who needs enemies? :/
If you wanted to 'to show you was that you`re server is vulnerable' you could
have emailed him telling him what the weak spot was...
To me you are a cracker not a hacker... probably not even that, just a
scriptkiddie...
If you are a man you expose your identity and face the concequeses of you
actions... you really put Ramon in a shitty situation by your wanna be
hacking...
Name: Jo Neller
City, Country: Erina, NSW, Australia
Sent: 11.54 PM - 9/4 2002
Ramon
Have a safe trip home. Thank you for your support and advice when you stayed at
my place. I have given Graham the flick. He was definately not worth the
trouble. I have been going out with a lovely gentleman for 5 days. His name is
Gary. He treats me well and with respect. It has taken four since my divorce
and I'm really happy. Thank you once again. I hope all your dreams come true. I
hope you and Irena can patch things up. Life is too short. Your living your
dream and I have learnt alot from your stay. My motto in life now is to be
happy and live life to the fullest. Hopefully we can catch up in the future. I'm
going to Europe next year. Thanks again. Have a safe trip. Jo
Name: stefan purucker
City, Country: vienna, austria
Sent: 10.43 PM - 9/4 2002
well, you have been here already, i guess.
so it´s hard to invite you again.
but we look at your route. keep on going.
a brilliant idea, but how do you feel meeting all
these people every day?
how many families have you met?
wish you all the best!
RAMON:
Hey Stefan, lots of questions, less time right now. I have only stayed one
day in Austria until now, so I will certainly come back there again ... one
day...
Name: Aila Karppinen
City, Country: Sweden
Sent: 7.32 PM - 9/4 2002
Hi Ramon!Thank You for your ansver,it was nice to here from You?Are You still
in Australia??My favorite place on Earth(one of favorites.)You are a wery
speciall person,and brave, for doing what many people are dreaming about,to
travel around our Beautiful Planet!Hope to here from You.God Bless on Your
Journey!
Name: airforce
City, Country: nowhere
Sent: 7.18 PM - 9/4 2002
Hi Ramon ...
I`m the ####### that is responsable for messing up you`re page ...
All that i can say is that i am sorry ..
I never got to "hacking" thinking that i would destroy one`s dream...
All that i ever wanted to show you was that you`re server is vulnerable ..
And if it wasn`t me .. it could of been someonelse who might of screw`d up the
whole server ..
I am trouly sorry for this shit ..
All i wanted was to be friends ..
G33z ...
Name: Fiona
City, Country: Adelaide
Sent: 2.33 PM - 9/4 2002
Hi Ramon!
I just logged on to wish you a safe journey home!
Happy travelling!
Fiona, Wayne, Imogen and Jasper (report #400!)
Name: Nancy
City, Country: Leiden,Netherlands
Sent: 2.29 PM - 9/4 2002
Voor ramon, zodat je weer een beetje kunt wennen:O)
Home sweet home- peter gabriel
Met this girl called Josephine and took her up on my machine,
We had a little fun, and now we got a little one.
Had to get married, being chased out of town.
Found ourselves a place to live, we put all our money down.
Called it Home Sweet Home, Home Sweet Home,
Eleven floors up in a tower block, happy just to have a home.
I've gone and changed the lock on our home.
Nothing really worked out right; things got broke, they stayed that way.
None of our friends came round at night, little Sam got no place to play.
"We've got to get out of here, Bill," she said,
"I've been telling you all the while,"
When I came home from work that night,
She'd jumped out the window with our child.
From our Home Sweet Home, Home Sweet Home.
Just a place to take a rest, just a place to make a nest.
We call it home.
When the insurance money came through,
It seemed dirty, didn't know what to do.
Took out the cash, went down to the casino,
Down on the wheel on a double,
And I won, yes I won, like I never won before.
Bought myself a country house with an antique carved oak door.
It was Home Sweet Home, Home Sweet Home.
Just a place to lay our head, think of all the things we said
About in our Home Sweet Home.
Name: Willem
City, Country: Nimy-mons, Belgium
Sent: 2.05 PM - 9/4 2002
Keep it up Ramon!!!
Regards, Willem
Name: Brian B
City, Country: Raleigh, NC
Sent: 1.59 PM - 9/4 2002
Ramon, sorry about the internet troubles, hope they will be cleared up before
you leave Australia. Good luck with letmestayforaday.com Charity Night. What a
great way to give something back to the Australian people for helping you along
in your travels. Just think, 16 months ago when you started your journey, did
you ever dream it would come this far. I think you probably did. I don't know
how long you can keep this up, but if you spend 6 months in all of the
countries you have invites in, it would take you 35 years, haha (i realize you
won't stay 6 months in each country).
Good luck with the charity night and have a safe trip home. One bit of advice,
try and finish up the Australian reports before you get to Zwolle (on the plane
or something), because I have a feeling you won't feel like writing reports
once you are back home (I don't blame you I wouldn't either, what with all that
Grolsch beer you speak so fondly of).
Thank you Ramon for opening our eyes to parts of the world that many of us will
never see.
good luck.
Brian B
North Carolina
Name: Anne
City, Country: Melbourne Australia
Sent: 1.31 PM - 9/4 2002
I hope the memories of your time in Australia will stay with you always. Stay
safe as you continue your travels.
Name: Sherry
City, Country: Glebe
Sent: 6.03 AM - 9/4 2002
Hey dude? How are your knee's? haha!
Had lots of fun with you at the bar and
Glebe Village Backpackers!
Catch you on the flip side!
Ciao
Sherry:)
Name: Alexandra
City, Country: Adelaide, Australia
Sent: 2.48 PM - 9/2 2002
Wishing you all thebest for your travels back home!! Take care
- Alex :):)
Name: Jamie
City, Country: Naperville, IL USA
Sent: 7.58 PM - 8/30 2002
Hi Ramon, how all is well with you..
...just a quick note to Brian..
...I am afraid I am not in your hometown, but here in the US. I should have
been clearer when I said I was "currently in Durban", as I meant that
is as far as I got reading Ramon's reports.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 5.58 AM - 8/30 2002
Hi Ramon
Just a short note to wish you well with your party in Sydney. It's good that
you are raising funds for charity. Hey, all the Sydney folk, you guys have to
go! I don't want any excuses, you have to support Ramon in that party.
Jamie, from Naperville, Il, I see that you are "currently in Durban".
Is that in the reports, or physically? If physically, then welcome to my home. Perhaps
we can get together for a drink. If in the reports, then happy reading!
Sala kahle
Brian
Name: Renee
City, Country: Currently Delft, Netherlands
Sent: 8.52 AM - 8/29 2002
Hoe gaat het! This is Renee from Ramons Brisbane & Mooloolaba stay (and we
also ran into each other on Magnetic).
Just thought I'd say hello from your own country Ramon! You know how I love the
Dutch - well I kept in touch with a guy I met on Fraser Island 18mnths ago
& he flew to London to see me when I got back from Canada. We've been a
couple since and are very happy! :) He loves Aussie girls and I love Dutch guys
so it's a great match, not to mention a lot more in common and he is the most
wonderful boyfriend in the world :) So now I'm staying-for-a-month with him,
and he will be with me in the UK in September for a week and we're working out
beyond that, but he's been planning on living in Australia since I met him so
hopefully we'll both end up there in about 2004. Meanwhile I'm trying to learn
Dutch and it's rather difficult! Have also just learnt to ride a bike, been for
a cruise up a canal and am eating lots of cheese. So I can now totally
associate with you having to learn all new things in your travels as now I'm
doing it all in your own country!
Anyway wanted to wish you good luck returning back home and enjoy your break :)
Doei.
Name: James
City, Country: Arnold, California, USA
Sent: 10.19 PM - 8/28 2002
Sorry, but I want to weigh in back with the comments on world awareness. There
is an international newspaper printed in the US and many other countries called
the Christian Science Monitor. Yes it does originate from a religious group,
but 98% of its content is international news and comment. It is widely read. Take
a look it has opened up my view of the world. Especially since it tries to
focus and the people and the issues, not the sensationalism of the news.
Continue on, keep em' flowing
J
Name: Jamie
City, Country: Naperville, IL, USA
Sent: 5.31 PM - 8/28 2002
Ramon,
you are an inspiration to us all. I have been reading your site from day one
(currently in Durban, South Africa)... your insite into people is truely
amazing.
Safe Travels.
Jamie
Name: Bart
City, Country: Belgium
Sent: 3.19 PM - 8/28 2002
The name of the Dutch guy who "discovered" New- Amsterdam (New York)
was Peter Stuyvesant
Name: ...
City, Country: ...
Sent: 7.41 PM - 8/27 2002
Careful Robert,
Manhattan was not "discovered" by the Dutch. Natives had been living
there for countless generations. Some of the Dutch and the Puritans attempted
to exterminate the Natives, and many were captured and sold as slaves. Not the
prettiest chapter in American history.
(Not trying to alienate anyone or start any arguments on the actions of people
hundreds of years ago - I just don't like the "discovered" claims!)
RAMON:
Thanks ... But what is wrong with a simple name for you?
Name: Linda
City, Country: Hobart, Tasmania
Sent: 1.23 AM - 8/27 2002
I just noticed one of the comments in Ramon's report on his arrival in
Melbourne. Thanks for sticking up for us Tasmanians, Hamish!
Linda
Name: lazystudent.co.uk
City, Country: UK
Sent: 12.29 AM - 8/27 2002
Ramon
Its always great to see that you are doing well we keep checking and
everythings running really smooth. Australia sounds and looks great from the
pictures you you have taken. We also like the write ups on the day to day
events.
Your doing fantastic.
Talk to you soon.
lazystudent
Name: Craig & Lauren
City, Country: Bendigo, Australia
Sent: 9.08 AM - 8/26 2002
Ramon,
Lauren and I want to thank you for including us in what must be an amazing
experience for you. It is truly astounding what a little hospitality from one
person at a time can accomplish; and for someone to have the courage to take
that leap of faith and make it work is fantastic. We wish you luck in the rest
of your travels and hopefully one day we will get to Zwolle and visit you (if
you are home that is...lol)
Anyway, thank you again. You were the perfect houseguest and most welcome to
stay if you are in Bendigo again.
Good luck!
Craig & Lauren
Name: Robert
City, Country: Indiana, USA
Sent: 2.54 AM - 8/26 2002
Ramon,
I was just thinking, New York City, ie., Manhattan,
was discovered by a Dutchman. His name escapes me,
at the moment, but you may know his name. Now, in
NYC and in other US cities 50 years ago, we had pay
toilets in hotels and other establishments. It, also,
occurs to me that another Dutchman invented the "Limbo" to enter
these pay toilets. Are you
related to this guy?
Name: Acadia
City, Country: Maine, USA
Sent: 12.49 PM - 8/25 2002
Lew,
Aptly put.
Name: Lew Bretz
City, Country: Elephant Pass Tasmania, OZ
Sent: 3.49 AM - 8/25 2002
Hi Ramon,
I'm glad you're caught up with your diary and that your minor storm over
Tasmania got cleared up.
For the group, though, or those who read about his night at Elephant Pass...
there were a few misremembered details in Ramon's
posting, mostly not errors that would concern anyone. But I'm shocked, Ramon,
absolutely shocked, that you could suggest I'd ever drive anything manufactured
by Honda! ;-)
But for any Americans I should clarify what I meant in reported comments on
parochialism in the US and elsewhere. If Ramon didn't grasp it all, I
may be the guilty party. I not only did the explaining in what was, for Ramon,
a foreign language, I was also pouring his wine!
I certainly admit that half of the US is indifferent to almost everything
happening overseas that doesn't directly concern them. But it's arguable that
almost everywhere else half the people, at least, aren't much
different.
Half of them, after all, have below average IQs and education levels. You can
get through university, even, without having studied social issues in
depth past age 16. And how much did any of us understand at 16?
Although I don't speak Dutch, I've got enough language background to follow the
news in several European languages from France to Russia. I've often detected
the same parochialism in these European channels, which we can watch in
Australia thanks to its ethnic media network, SBS. It's always interesting for
me as an American to see how they handle US-related
stories and which ones they find of interest. It often says more about them
than about America.
Even in an outward looking culture, which Holland has been for 5 or more
centuries and Australia is since its British trading network ended, local stuff
is what
viewers generally want. I just now listened to Australia's ABC radio news this
morning--the ABC is our equivalent of Britain's BBC or Canada's
CBC--and nearly all its stories were irrelevant to anyone outside its minority
listening audience--irrelevant even to most of Australia, to say nothing of the
wider world.
I'll save the list of stories in case Ramon, as a longtime student of
journalism, is interested--they'd probably bore anyone else. But the list shows
how, in today's complex world, we all tend to drastically scale down our
attention span, and look for some connection between a story and our lives; if
there's no obvious link, we don't have much patience for it and our minds move
on.
Media proprietors hate that. We are not their customers, we are their PRODUCT. The
advertisers who want our attention are their real clients.
I hope this wasn't too wordy, but looking back on it the topic it seems to
warrant this much attention; maybe someone else could put it simpler without
dumbing it down. And perhaps some others tracking Ramon have some views on this
too? I know he's busy mulling over such stuff and hopefully he'll share his
conclusions with us when they're "ripe".
cheers and best of luck on your return trip Ramon,
Lew
RAMON:
I could not have said these things better. Lew, you keep amazing me. You
really must have been a great teacher at the schools you taught, because I keep
learning new sorts of insights from you.
Blame it on my age, I'd say, but hopefully I keep learning all these new things
along the road. As I am, a student of life.
Thanks, Lew!
Name: Anne
City, Country: Cairns, Australia
Sent: 3.39 AM - 8/25 2002
Dear Ramon,
How Vickie could think you are anything but a gentleman, I don't know. You
certainly did not leave our house in a mess either! We cannot force others to
do what WE want just for our own satisfaction. You happily joined in our
family's activities and outings, but if you had declined through tiredness or a
wish to update your travels we would have honoured that.....indeed your final
day was just that ...catching up.
To Ramon's mother...you can be proud of your son...he is a perfect guest.
Enjoy your break back in Holland.
All the best,
Love Anne and the crew.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 2.49 AM - 8/25 2002
Hi Ramon,
I had to comment on your report of Aug 21 where you begin with "When I
woke up this morning my hostess Linda had left a note in the kitchen with the
instructions how I can survive for breakfast or lunch."
I know this has happened to you at other host/hostess homes as well. I believe
it is a testament to your web site, your integrity, your reporting expertise,
your photos, etc. which allows people to not only let a "stranger"
into their home, but to also leave him ALONE in their home when they go off to
work. Amazing trust and faith in you. For people to leave you in their home,
where your could "in theory" rip them off or invade their private
things, mess with their possessions, etc. - but then again, you'd be easy to
track down as your travels are not secret! :-)
I just think it is really a testament to you and your idea and your web site
that allows people who invite you, and allows you as well, to have an implicit
trust in one another. Really refreshing.
P.S. Loved the hermit crab races. But I think they could do a better job of
painting those shells to match some F1, CART, IRL, NASCAR or AUSCAR cars! :-)
How about a "Schumi" crab or a "Castroneves" crab or an
"Andretti" crab or a "Gordon" crab or an
"Earnhardt" crab? ;-) Just to name a few. (OK, I admit it, I am a car
racing fan!)
"Weather is here, wish you were beautiful!" :-)
Happy trails.
Joan
Name: Kevin
City, Country: Zimbabwe
Sent: 10.56 PM - 8/24 2002
Ramon,
This is my first visit to your site, and man I'm impressed- such an original
idea. I see you get around a fair bit, and have even ventured to such EXOTIC
locations as South Africa. If you get the chance maybe you like to venture a
little further north next time, so come up and see us!
Stay well, and enjoy your travels.
PS Enjoyed reading about the Zimbabwean you met between Pembleton and Perth
(21.07.02)
Name: took
City, Country: thailand
Sent: 2.11 PM - 8/24 2002
I am took , thai woman. i am a little officer in independent organization ,
work about develop's work with poor people and community in thai.
Frist, i am sorry ,i want to tell you that " i cannot use English
languange well , sometime it's very bad " ok! I will try...
i knew you from Future magazine , after i read your story already , made me
interested !
Do you know Thailand? Thailand has many placeS are nice , and the people are
kind [almost tourist knew that]
but there is one more corner , many person never see , "it is real thai
life corner" There are many people are poor in thai , they are very
diffecult.They don't have some food / house and every things ...The life is
without chance and hope.it is empty
i knew that you travel a lot and see many things in the word . you can write
and link a lot imformation and the sponsor's company .
i think that , if you need make good thing in your one life and for the other
people are in the same world . you can do , it is very easy for you.
if you take thier story [poor people] when you travel in every country , write
and link together . you may doubt that "what will happen with this
doing?" and "what are you receive ?" i can answer you that
"i don't know and you cannot receive any thing ."
but one thing i believe , you will feel good and hope that , sometime there is
some one think like me and you and want to help them . I need to see help's
network [help and help and help] i think that , it is a good way for human in
the same word.
i don't request you do it , just want to do the thing which i think that "
make my life has value , i have only one life . i don't need to think and do
for only myself. i don't know about impact of my develop 's work. i don't have
money or knowledge a lot for help them. but one thing which i alway try to do.
it is try to think and do good thing with the people are around me and every
time , if i have a chance.
now you have big chance already, you have big contact in the word . you are
become known and " you have power for do good thing and build value in
your life " . i believe that!
if you come thailand , i welcome to bring you to see diffecult life , one
life's corner which nobody interest!
THANK YOU ALOT FOR YOUR READING MY . i still do this thing . although , you
will do or not
let's visit thai! you can see new thing ...
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.22 AM - 8/24 2002
Vicki Curtis, the oddball in Tassie. That you are. Not more more to be said
there!
Hey C.L. Robbins, the picture of a Cowboys T-shirt does NOT mean the Cowgirl
thugs are liked around the world. :-) Dallas Cowboys are "worthy"?
;-) Worthy of jail time perhaps. Hehehehe.
Joan
Name: C. L. Robbins
City, Country: Dallas, TX USA
Sent: 10.43 PM - 8/23 2002
I really enjoy reading your journal entries and seeing your pictures. I am a
Dallas Cowboy fan. You can imagine the surprise in your "Calendar
Contest" picture from Australia, seeing an AIKMAN #8 shirt. The
"worthy" Cowboys are liked around the world!!
Name: Marieke
City, Country: Holland
Sent: 4.46 PM - 8/23 2002
Well frmo what I read in your postings, I think Vicky has some kind of mental
disorder. ADHD (Hyperactivity disorder) might be a possibility. That means you
react in an extremely impulsive way and do lots of things you regret later on. You
react on emotions in a very primal way: impulsively. And later you regret what
you have said/done because you migth not even really mean it.
From reading the posts I do not get the impression Vicky is a nasty woman or
anything. After all, she seemed over the moon with having Ramon. I think it
went a little different form what she expected and that was a change in her
'plan' and she did not really know how to cope with that.
Name: Vicki Curtis
City, Country: Hobart Tasmania
Sent: 2.37 PM - 8/23 2002
Hey guys - please dont bag me anymore. I truly am sorry. There are things I
cant say publicly - but there's a reason why I am 'different'. Please welcome
me guys. I've made a huge mistake. Im sure Ramon will forgive me when he reads
his email about what happened.
Name: donatella
City, Country: milano, italy
Sent: 2.04 PM - 8/23 2002
hello ramon, I've just read your 2 latest report, the mailinglist made me quite
curious about that fuss with the hostess in hobart. I'd like to tell you what
is obviously plain: it can happen to meet on your route unpleasant people (the
problem is that you can't realise it before accepting the invitation...);
probably the more you go on --> the more you become "famous"
--> the more you risk to meet people or media that want to use you and your
experience as a kind of fenomeno (or a rag doll, as you wrote). I'm generally
speaking, don't want to judge wickie - you know, the report of the aug.19th is
a little disqiueting in its irony... (did you have a premonition?) I mean, it
sounds like that wasn't much feeling from the start with the lady.
probably the best thing is speaking clearly to her and making clear about your
opinions once again, then you'll have made all the possible: it's up to her to
understand.
go on right your own way, this is your project. best wishes :)
ciao, donatella
Name: Alexandra
City, Country: adelaide
Sent: 1.56 PM - 8/23 2002
RAMON ROX!
Name: Fiona
City, Country: Adelaide
Sent: 1.55 PM - 8/23 2002
Hey Ramon!
I hope you don't think all Anlgican priest's wives are wacky! Remember when you
stayed with us and we had dinner at a table with a glass of wine! You were the
perfect house guest and we would have you again in a flash! Imogen still asks
where you are so I have been showing her the pictures on the site!
Those of us on the mainland always say Tesweigans have 2 heads!
Name: Vicki Curtis
City, Country: Hobart Tasmania
Sent: 1.44 PM - 8/23 2002
Hi this is Vicki Curtis the oddball from Tassie.
This is my public apology to Ramon for causing him so much grief. I have
written him a long email and I hope that he finds it in his heart to forgive me
after reading what I have to say to him. I have wasted a precious opportunity
in like. Maybe Ramon will publicly accept me back to this site?
Vicki Curtis the 'different' one in Tasy.
Name: Sue
City, Country: Hong Kong
Sent: 1.34 PM - 8/23 2002
Glad to hear Ramon had a great day biking in the Tamar Valley, also that he
went to my home town (George Town) as a lot of visitors find it a bit out of
the way. By the way, the bridge is called the "Batman Bridge" after a
John Batman, a busranger who used to hideout in the area, I believe. Unless
they have changed the name sometime in the last 20 years!
It really is great to see all the pictures from Tasmania, thanks!
Name: Acadia
City, Country: Maine, USA
Sent: 11.18 AM - 8/23 2002
Sounds like you met up with a good one in Lew. I would have loved to be a fly
on the wall during your long conversation.
Whatever happens with this Vicky person happens. You know who you are and what
you are. Perhaps she had the wrong expectations of your visit. Maybe she
figures her road to fame is by being the anti-Ramon. Sad.
Name: Gail
City, Country: Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
Sent: 1.19 AM - 8/23 2002
Hi everybody,
I can't believe that a person can invite someone to stay with them as a guest,
knowing that they have no money, transport or other means by which to make life
easier, and then say to the media that they "used" them during the
stay!
This particular host must be one stressed out bunny!
Cheers and keep on cranking, Ramon!
Name: Belinda
City, Country: Hobart Tasmania
Sent: 10.42 AM - 8/22 2002
Hi Ramon
There was a lady on the radio down here this morning giving you some bad rap. Apparently
she's having it published in the local rag. I just want you to know that I am
sticking up for you. I think that you are great. Keep up your great stories.
RAMON:
This lady you mentioned is my ex-host Vickie Curtis who invited me to stay
at her place in Hobart last Monday. Appearantle she did not enjoy it that much,
because she called the Mercury newspaper as soon as she dropped me off in the
city centre the next day.
The newspaper contacted me about it and she stated to them that I left her home
in a mess, I was uncommunicative, ungrateful and that I "used" her.
"I wish to confirm the view that this guy is a free loader," she had
said to the newspaper. "Maybe my expectations were too high ... I expected
a polite housetrained young man with a mature outlook ... instead I got the
opposite."
The newspaper decided not to run a story about it because they had their own
reservations about Ms Curtis' claims, and her right to make them as _ after all
_ she did volunteer her home and hospitality.
Then it seems that Ms Curtis jumped to the phone to call the radio station and
then brag about me and how terrible I seem to have been.
What fascinates me the most is that Ms Curtis NEVER has contacted me about the
things that bothered her. I will extend my opinions this all in the report
of August 21, coming up soon.
Until now I have not heard anything from the lady personally. So maybe she does
kick on media attention, as you will find out in my report of August 19 too.
I'll give her a call myself to clear things out and to hear for the first time
what I seem to have done wrong and will include the results in the report of
August 21.
Name: Lew Bretz
City, Country: Elephant Pass TAS Australia
Sent: 9.54 AM - 8/22 2002
Hi Ramon,
Still having trouble with your GMX addresses--mine keep 'bouncing'--but I
managed to get in touch with the Mercury reporter in Hobart. No story is being
run, apparently. For more info phone me at
(613)63 7222 63 cheers, Lew
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.07 AM - 8/22 2002
Hey Ramon
Linda's account of your supper has me laughing. Not to be rude, but because
I've had exactly the same experience. Thai green curry is wonderful, if not too
hot. But then, "too" is a relative term, and some people have
leather-lining in their gut. :-)
Ramon, I hope the after-effects were not too bad. Can you taste again? :-)
Just kidding. You keep well, and continue with that great reporting.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Linda
City, Country: Hobart, Tas
Sent: 2.40 AM - 8/22 2002
Hi Brian
Actually, I discovered that Ramon only *thinks* he's had a hot curry before! I
asked if he like hot curries, then picked up some thai green chicken curry and
beef rendang. i'm afraid it nearly blew his head off. and he didn't believe me
when i told him it was no hotter than usual. We've got tough stomachs here in
Tasmania!
Anyway, I made up for it with some cooling mango sorbet, so things settled
down. Sorry again, Ramon!
Linda
Name: Fat Flapper
City, Country: Launceston now Cairns
Sent: 2.00 AM - 8/22 2002
G'DAY RAMON, HOW THE BUM RECOVERED FROM THE BIKE RIDE?
THAT GREEN STUFF IS CALLED "MIDOURI" AND IT WILL KILL A
BROWN DOG. ANYWAY I GOT THAT JOB AND I'M ABOUT TO FLY TO THE GULF OF
CARPENTARIA, KARUMBA, SO I'LL CATCH U LATER. FAT FLAP THE BIKER.
Name: Acadia
City, Country: Maine, USA
Sent: 10.58 PM - 8/21 2002
Yup, nice pic for the desktop.
Thanks.
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 3.49 PM - 8/21 2002
Ramon, Thanks for the gorgeous sunset picture. Passed it to friends, to
everyone at work, and family. They all love it.
:)
Name: panya
City, Country: Thailand
Sent: 3.42 PM - 8/21 2002
Hello.......
well come to Thailand
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.25 AM - 8/21 2002
Hi Linda
What did you feed Ramon last night? Cooked pumpkin? Or chicken with apricots? He
prefers not to eat these things, I discovered last year. Don't feel too bad,
no-one eats everything.
Ramon, it was odd to see you in the snow in that pic, we also have winter here,
but it's 27 degrees and sunny today.
Keep strong, Ramon, it's only about two weeks and you'll be resting (read
drinking) with Munk and Gerben again. And it will be a well-deserved rest.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Linda
City, Country: Hobart, Tasmania, Aust
Sent: 5.49 AM - 8/21 2002
Hello
Well, if Qantas hasn't done its usual trick of delaying flights to and from
Hobart, Ramon should be almost back in Melbourne by now. I dropped him at the
airport after a much too brief visit to Tasmania - he could have spent the
whole six months here, and still not be finished! At least he got to go up the
mountain, like every tourist in Hobart - the snow was just a lucky bonus. And
believe what I'm sure he'll say in his report - it was FREEZING up there!!
It was a bit unreal finally meeting him after following the exploits on this
site, but, Ramon, you're doing it well. I can understand you being a bit
impatient to get home for that hard-earned rest. Of course, once you're there
you'll just want to head off again, I'll bet. There's no cure for itchy feet -
especially not after an experience like this.
Sorry for poisoning you with dinner last night, but just remember - everything
is bigger and hotter in Australia!
Stay well.
Linda
Name: Bella
City, Country: Townsville Australia
Sent: 7.45 AM - 8/20 2002
Hi all. Need to set things right about Bootmen. It starred Adam Garcia not
Andy. Adam is Australian and much younger. Regards to you Ramon. I have been
following your journey daily. Hope you have a well deserved rest when you leave
our shores.
Name: Gail
City, Country: Launceston, Tasmania
Sent: 5.57 AM - 8/20 2002
Hi Ramon,
Forgot to ask, how is Kimbal's work holding out?
Name: Gail, Phillip, Heidi &
Mel
City, Country: Launceston, Tasmania
Sent: 5.52 AM - 8/20 2002
Hello everybody.
We have just had the pleasure of hosting Ramon for a couple of days and now our
life has returned to normal (more hectic than while he was here!).
At least we were able to have a rest while he caught up on the mountains, and I
say again, mountains of email/website/photo duties to be attended to.
Ramon's "travellers life" is certainly not all fun and games, more
like bad backs, dirty clothes, overwhelming correspondence, media circus after
circus, and an occasional quiet moment when not playing "Guest"!
We found him to be a true wit, all the time mindful of his guest role, and
although he probably may never pass this way again, we would certainly love to
see him again.
Happy Trails, Ramon.....
Sent: 4.38 AM - 8/20 2002
Name: Cynthia
City, Country: Denver, USA
Sent: 1.51 AM - 8/20 2002
Andy Garcia is Australian?
RAMON:
No, he is from Cuba.
Name: Rob
City, Country: UK / NZ
Sent: 7.54 PM - 8/18 2002
Hi Ramon,
You might find my web organisation useful on your travels. It lists places where
you can help out at places like farms in exchange for a bed and meals.
It's called Help Exchange, find it at www.helpx.net
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 2.54 AM - 8/18 2002
Hi Ramon,
I wanted to again commend you on such great stories and photos. I've spent the
last few hours catching up on your travelogue and photos. But then I had to
search back to March reports, when you visited the Newcastle area of the West
Central Coast. Why? Because this afternoon on T.V. I watched a really good
movie. "Bootmen", filmed and located in Newcaste steel mills. I
seemed to have recalled you had visited the area so I had to go back and find
them.
Great Aussie movie staring the Aussie Andy Garcia, good story, and excellent
music and dancing, if anyone wants to catch it. I never heard of it before
today when it aired on an HBO cable channel. The dancing really is incredible!!
Some web links, hope they don't get nixed. :-) Just passing info about a neat
movie about a place where Ramon has visited.
http://www.foxsearchlight.com/production/bootmenwed.html
http://www.boxoff.com/issues/aug00/bootmen.html
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Maria
City, Country: Belgrade, Yugoslavia
Sent: 12.10 PM - 8/17 2002
I am in loved in traveling and i admire people who travel a lot. But....you
fascinate me complitely!!! You are young, you travel a lot and don't spend alot
of money! Your idea about "invitation" is perfect!!
I'm jelous:))) Just kiding!
Good luck and have some fun for all of us!
Greetings from Yugoslavia!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 10.38 AM - 8/17 2002
Thank you, Ramon.
I am genuinely honoured. Really.
Brian
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 4.36 AM - 8/17 2002
Ramon,
You are a tickler and a tease lately. :-)
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Ramon
City, Country: Tasmania at the moment
Sent: 3.37 AM - 8/17 2002
To explain the message below for those who missed
it. Just for a day or two this messageboard was renamed into the Brianboard (of
course caused by the many contributions of South African Brian). Of course that
was just a temporary joke!
In September there will be some major changes on this website and I can already
reveal to you all that the "Board of Supporters" as how the frequest
messagers call themself, will get their OWN thing... I'll keep you posted!
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.26 PM - 8/16 2002
Brian, the Brianboard does have a nice ring to it. I like it. :-)
Sala kahle!
Joan
Name: Message
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 4.38 PM - 8/16 2002
Ramon?!
Huh? What the...! Brianboard?! Ramon, I'm at a loss for words. I'm flattered, I
think. Jeez, it's wierd.
Is this a hint that I'm here too often? Or is this for someone else? Is there
something particular that I should say? I'm quite flabberghasted, and
gobsmacked!
At first I thought you'd managed to use the IP address to identify us, and
personalise the board. Then I saw what Joan and Donatella had to say, and,
well, I really did have eyes like saucers!
Ramon, you are clearly in a more relaxed mode now, after the last week or so in
the Wayward bus, and now in Taz. It's great. Who gave you this idea? What in
the world inspired it?
Anyway, what I really did intend to say, is that it's good, no, it's wonderful,
that you went to Todd's school as a live specimen for his "show and
tell". He must have been bubbling with pride and excitement. That was a
really kind thing to do. You should also be full of pride. The reports will be
an absloute must-read for all.
You have shown, yet again, that you are a genuinely considerate person. You
have returned the favour to your hosts in a way that cannot really be measured,
but surely will be appreciated and remembered. There is immense value in what
you did, even if was only for ten minutes. Well done. Really.
Well, ..., that still boggles the mind. Brianboard!
Have a good time in Taz, Ramon, and try to avoid getting bitten by a 'Devil.
Hamba kahle.
Message
Name: sijmen
City, Country: utrecht, netherlands
Sent: 3.10 PM - 8/16 2002
I discovered your page because it's practically next to mine on the
"reisverhalen-australie.pagina.nl"
I did a traineeship in Brisbane for 5 months and it was funny to read about the
similiraties.
eating cheap pasta in one of the bassment malls and I also did a sandsurfing
trip with the same tourguide as you ("Barry"). You are getting more
famous, while I travel Europe I've met one who told me about the site.
Name: donatella
City, Country: milano, italy
Sent: 10.42 AM - 8/16 2002
my congrats for the message.. ops.. brianboard idea! it made me smile!! :D
ciao, dona
Sent: 10.02 AM - 8/16 2002
Ramon
Don't forget to visit the Dutch Pub in Melbourne
Jongeren Borrel Avond
1ste Donderdag van de maand
The Lambs go barrrr
Owner Marc Bayle
135 Greeves Street
Fitzroy
tel: 03 84150511
Just tell him Ron send you
See you soon in Sydney for the party night
Ron
Dutch On-Line Sydney
www.dutch.net.au
Name: John
City, Country: Costa Mesa, Ca USA
Sent: 6.27 AM - 8/16 2002
I've been trying to keep upwith your travels, I really enjoy going over the
emails. The time it must take to prepare them. It takes me so long just to go
through one with all the photos and all. If and when you get to CA, you'll be
put up for as long as you need, not to mention Disneyland, oh I mean the beach!
Keep up the good work. I always look forward to your updates. John
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 4.56 AM - 8/16 2002
Brianboard??????
Name: Ellery Kuhn
City, Country: Sacramento, California, USA
Sent: 1.42 AM - 8/16 2002
Enjoyed seeing photos and reading about our close friend, Louis down under with
you on the Waywardbus. You should know that Louis is quite the traveler himself
and, yes, he does probably snore respectfully.
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 6.06 PM - 8/15 2002
Hi Ramon,
Thanks! Its great to learn something good about Australia this 6 months.
Love to emulate a living legend. Mind teaching me to smoke a cigeratte and
drink alcohol. (different country=different brand=different taste) Whats a
life? I hope I can be gentle and patience as you. Take care. I 'll be around.
As always, LSOM.
Name: David & Sue
City, Country: Langwarrin, Victoria
Sent: 7.14 AM - 8/15 2002
Hi one and all. Sue & I have just got back from dropping Ramon off at
Melbourne Airport, for his flight to Tassie, after having had the pleasure of
his company for the past 24 hours.
Firstly, to anyone contemplating the thought of "inviting" Ramon to
stayforaday....Do it!
Even if he has too many invites for a particular city to stay with them all. At
least it gives Ramon the choice and also shows him that his "Project"
is still alive and kicking. (I may be off the mark, but my interpretation of
his project is to show that there still is good will and kindness throughout
this planet. Dispite what some narrow-minded people might think!!)
We had the honor of having Ramon spend a night with us and our four sons(aged 4
up to 9). While the boys are a tad too young to understand and appreciate the
magnitude of what Ramon has done, and continues to do, they will remember him
as someone who took the time to acknowledge them as individuals and take the
time out to make THEM feel special. After all the youngsters of today are the
future of tomorrow and I know that Ramon's short visit will never be forgotten
by the older three!!(The 4 y.o had just recieved a spiderman dress-up costume
and his only real interest in Ramon was showing him how he could cover him in
imaginary spiderwebs!!)
My oldest son Todd had asked me to ask Ramon if he could take Ramon to school
as his "show and tell"! Some of these "knockers" should
perhaps try taking into account what Ramon had experienced in the last few
weeks in regards to negativity from the odd writer and his own feelings, (how
tired and emotional would you be after nearly 6 months of travelling the way he
is!!! CUT THE GUY SOME SLACK!!!!!!!I witnessed first hand as he spent hours
updating his website, sorting out photo's and captions, replying to emails
etc....... More like hard work then a holiday to me!!)
Anyway I asked Ramon if he would mind doing this for my son and he didn't
hesitate to say yes. The look of joy on my sons face as he got to introduce
Ramon to his teacher and classmates will be with me forever. To see the way
Ramon spoke to and fielded questions from 25-30 nine year olds was amazing. Due
to having to get Ramon to a photo shoot and to the airport he could only speak
to the children for 10 minutes but let me tell you that he has probably
inspired at least half of these kids to realise anything really is possible!
Ramon informed me after he left the room that that was the first time he had
been in an Australian classroom. It really is a shame that it will probably be
his last as he leaves our shores in a few weeks.
He jokingly said he could go on the "school circuit" talking to
children......Ramon is a real peoples person and he is living proof that
"Anything is possible"!
You are a living legend Ramon!
I hope one day that our paths may cross again.
Until that time
Take care, Don't change & Thank You.
David, Sue (& the tribe, Todd 9, Jarrod 6, Bailey 6, Joshua 4)
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.30 AM - 8/15 2002
Hi Greg
As you may know, and Ramon does know, South Africa is a country of many cultures.
One of the "tribes" / cultures/ whatever is Zulu. This is one of the
three most spoken languages in SA.
"Sala kahle" is Zulu for "stay well". "Hamba
kahle" is Zulu for "go well". "Well" can read
"safely". It is polite in the Zulu culture to say this to people when
you part ways, or finish chatting.
I am white English, but I use these expressions sometimes to show respect.
For reference, the only (I think) black family that hosted Ramon in South
Africa (Stellenbosch) was a Xhosa family, I believe. They are from the same
historical root as the Zulus.
Interestingly, most of the so-called "black on black" violence that
you may hear about is between Zulus and Xhosas. Our government (ANC) is
predominantly Xhosa, hence the intense rivalry with the IFP, who are Zulu.
Ramon, did you pick up any of this while you were here? I hope that you did,
since it might help with the ROW understanding how we live in a country that is
represented in the international media as being so terrible. But then, with
your wonderful reports, anyone who followed you thru SA will appreciate the
truth about our incredible country.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Greg
City, Country: Pemberton, WA
Sent: 2.16 AM - 8/15 2002
Ok, Brian, spill the beans...
What the heck does 'Sala kahle' mean?
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 11.21 PM - 8/14 2002
MJ gives Cynthia a prize-we live in a great city!
I think this website is a prize..
:)
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.28 AM - 8/14 2002
Hi Ramon,
I have a request for you to consider for your page. When reading your reports,
at the end you have "Back to index >>". Would you consider
adding a "Next" option, so when reading a bunch, we can just go the
next report versus back to the index each time? Sometimes you update many days
at once and it would be very convenient to just select "Next". Also,
sometimes I find myself going back to an old place of interest and just want to
keep going to the next report. For example, if I am reading reports from last March,
I want the next report. By going back to the index the page is back to August
and I have to scroll down to March, and remember the last day I was reading. It
may even be nice to have a "Previous" button while you are at it,
which goes to the day before the one you are reading. ;-)
Looking forward to your travels in Tasmania.
Thanks,
Joan
RAMON:
If somebody knows how to jump from one report (or database I.D.#) with a
link at the bottom of every report, please tell me, because I haven't figured
that out myself.
The same thing goes for the longer and longer long index page. I should be
creating some extra pages there, instead of making one big list, but I don't
know how to do that yet as it is all created by the database.
If you know want to go from one report to the next or previous one, try to
change the report/?id=# with 1 up or down. That might help you skip the index,
but might not always work.
Name: cynthia
City, Country: Denver, USA
Sent: 11.49 PM - 8/13 2002
P.S. I guessed correctly to your next destination...Tasmania. Do I get some
kind of prize?
Name: cynthia
City, Country: Denver, USA
Sent: 11.40 PM - 8/13 2002
Hi Ramon, I just saw the article in Frommers. This is the first I've heard
outside this web site. You're getting around..Not quite celebrity status here
yet but it's a beginning. Someone showed it to me and asked "is this the
Dutch boy you've been following?" and I was sitting in front of the PC
with your site on it. It was a thrilling coincidence. I agree with Brian B. and
this is the closest I've been to a place without being there in person...Seeing
it through your eyes, ears, nose, etc...
Name: Lisa C
City, Country: F.B. USA
Sent: 9.16 PM - 8/13 2002
I have just joined your group ! You are going around the world on invitations? I
think this is a wonderfull thing! I Imagine, that you will write a book on all
your travels, and perhaps even a trillogy, or a series! I have sent you my
e-mail address in the send you a personal message link, and hope to hear from
you soon, your welcome to stay with me for the day!, and I can give you a grand
tour! giant redwoods, the pacific ocean,
the pygmy forrest, estuary area, guarrentees you will see ALOT of wildlife!,
and I can show you where you can get fresh tuna, salmon, and everything else
from the ocean,
right off the boats! now - THAT IS FRESH! (well you must eat while traveling
the globe)
Lol ,are you a vegitarian? the vegies are just as fresh here,right out of the
ground, fresh from the farm! Thank you, Lisa C.
Name: Brian B
City, Country: NC, USA
Sent: 2.32 PM - 8/13 2002
I think they got the 9 cents a day by taking the $35 you spent on the domain
name and dividing by the total number of days you have been on the road, ~ 400.
$35 / 400 = ~ $0.09
Anyway, looking forward to reading about your last 25 days in Australia. I have
learned so much about that country that I would not have known if not for your
project. You make it possible for those of us who sit behind a desk all day to
travel right along with you. thank you for that.
Good luck.
Brian B
Name: Munk
Sent: 1.23 PM - 8/13 2002
Hey Mones, time to get used to coming over to Zwolle for a while, Flying Horse
bar's opened again, my washing machine burned so I'm using yours :) and we've
got mice. Can you scare them away when you get back?
RAMON: You are using my washingmachine?!! Okay, just don't touch
those wires at the back when he's splashing around that water, hehe... I have
23 days to go today, so I'll be back in September, don't worry. Those mice can
be the pets of my new housemate, don't harm them. Wait for me!
Name: Nada Ross
City, Country: Gold Coast, Queensland
Sent: 3.58 AM - 8/13 2002
Hey Ramon,
I really look forward to your reports on your travels and I have missed them
this past few days. The last one I received was 3rd Aug.
Yesterday I looked up the daily reports on your menu and I noticed that there
have been others. Have I been removed from your list or is this the new format
for keeping up with you?
Your pictures of the SA coastline are just great.
Keep smiling.....God bless you......Nada
Name: Acadia
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.14 AM - 8/13 2002
Now you have my curiosity piqued. How did the Japanese woman find out, and what
happened then?
I'll be on pins and needles until the story gets posted.
Too bad that the magazine did not get their facts straight before writing the
article. The truth is interesting enough.
Name: Acadia
City, Country: USA
Sent: 11.05 AM - 8/12 2002
You can clearly see in your postings that there is far less stress during this
last week or so. Good.
I have to wonder about your jacket, too. Perhaps some of these people have seen
your site/TV/newpaper exposure and are being courteous by not plying you with
questions.
I hope before you posted these fine peoples pictures to your website you let
them know that's what you'd be doing.
One last thing. I wonder if the article about the 9 cents a day was taking into
account the money you have been given by your hosts (which you note the amount
of in your postings), not just money you've spent of your own (which was for
your domain name).
RAMON:
1) RE The article: I have absolutely no idea where Frommers Budget Travel
magazine got the idea of 9$ a day, because there has never been a 9$ a day
thing during my project. It is made up, they could have contacted me about the
real fact! Waywardbus helped me out with some money, otherwise I wouldn't have
anything to eat and sometime people shout me a ticket for a bus or tram... For
myself, I have absolutely no cent in my pockets.
2) RE The Jacket: yes, indeed, like Joan also noticed (below), I was wearing my
letmestayforaday-logo-printed-on-the-arm winter jacket during my trip. I only
had to wear it in the evening or at the beginning of the day and when we were
out of the bus, I guess people have more attention to what we see outside that
to what is printed on my jacket. Believe me, up to the last 30 mins of the
tour, nobody knew who I was or what I did (and treated me like that). Until
that Japanese lady found out....
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.10 AM - 8/12 2002
Hi Ramon,
Great stories and pics of the latest travels, as usual. I note that you are
pleased you are somewhat "anonymous" on the Wayward Bus tour. But I
also noted in your pics "Walking along the lagoon in the Coorong
Reserve..." and in the inset in the "On our way to our first
destination to stay for the night, we stopped at this huge sand dune."
pic, that your were wearing your "let-me-stay-for-a-day.com" jacket. Did
no one on the tour pick up on that and ask about it? Just curious! ;-)
Cheers,
Joan
Name: donatella
City, Country: milano, italy
Sent: 9.10 PM - 8/10 2002
hello ramon, how are you on the island? you lucky... well, I ain't updated
about your latest news (I came back yesterday from my 2-week-holiday: rain,
rain, rain..), so I think I'll spend my next days reading the reports -
everything is good to avoid the books on my desk ;)
I took a glance only at the forum (thanks bret for answering) and at this
messageboard, as well (to Menno from leiden - cfr. aug,5th - sorry, I didn't
have the internet in those days otherwise I would have tried to translate the
lines from www.mediamente.rai.it, but Phoebe did a great job. about
www.pulsorock.com, I've taken a look but sorry, I can't speak a word in
spanish).
reading the other messages, I've noticed you were quite bored about repetitive
and silly questions you're expected to answer; I can imagine the situation. be
patient as much as you can, ramon. I'll read the reports. go on well!
ciao, donatella
Name: Tricia
City, Country: York, PA, USA
Sent: 4.48 PM - 8/9 2002
Ramon--
I just got my new "Budget Travel" Magazine, published by Frommers,
and there's a little article about your travels and website in it. I was pretty
excited, since I've been "following" you for quite a while and
telling all of my friends about your travels.
They talked about how you really know how to travel on a budget--- something
like 9 cents a day!
Best of luck!
Tricia
RAMON:
Hi Tricia! I have just read a scan of that article that a very friendly
person sent me by email. The headline indeed is: 'The Earth in 9$ a day' and
with the article mentions nothing about me spending money (I DON'T HAVE ANY!)
this headline is indeed a bit odd. Maybe somebody can ask those folks at
Frommers/Nomads about that ;-)
Name: donelle
City, Country: Perth, Western Australia
Sent: 11.51 AM - 8/8 2002
Ramon, Thankyou for staying with us when you were in Perth, (July 9, 2002). I
loved having you here, sharing time with you. Madeleine loved having someone
new to play Play-dough with. Brendan I and both appreciated the conversations
about literature.
I miss you - after looking forward to you coming for almost a year, spending 24
hours with you was just not enough!!!
I hope you come to Perth again when your LetMeStayForADay travels are over. Then
you can stay for more that one day!
Take care, be well, and enjoy yourself. I'll see you next time.
donelle
Name: Patty
City, Country: Brisbane
Sent: 7.40 AM - 8/8 2002
G'day Brian, yes, four photo albums, not counting the 300 digital photos we
took (so I like photos, ok? Get over it!) :)
I went back and read the reports of Ramons stay with you, so now I can
"see" you in my mind. Seriously, Africa is such an amazing place, we
loved it so much! I just wish I had the foresight to contact you before we
went, ah, such is life.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 7.00 AM - 8/7 2002
Hi Patty in Brisbane
Thanks for your message. I hope it was four albums, not just four photos! ;-)
Seriously, though, it's good that we can put our sporting rivalry aside (you
are in the Bi-Nations with NZ, we are in the try-Nations...) and bring the
world closer together.
But then, Ramon is seeding all of this. Hey Ramon, did anyone ever tell you
that you are achieving a huge amount more than you may realise? It's true. You
are doing an incredible job.
sala kahle, each of you
Brian
Name: Allen Bettis
City, Country: Spring, Texas U.S.A.
Sent: 11.07 PM - 8/6 2002
Hey Ramon!
I enjoyed reading your report about Kangaroo Island. I enjoyed your pictures
also. I know you are looking forward to a well deserved break on September 3.
I can't wait till you come to Spring, Texas. If you need any assistance getting
here let me know.
Name: Natasha Berger
City, Country: Germany
Sent: 6.31 PM - 8/6 2002
Compliments for Margot for that story in the Cairns Post as posted on the front
page of your website. Loved that radio piece of you in Perth. Opening eyes and
mind!
Have fun on the road to Melbourne, dude!
Name: Brian B
City, Country: NC, USA
Sent: 4.35 PM - 8/6 2002
Ramon, it sounds like your break back home will arrive just in time. Enjoy your
last month down under.
RAMON:
Yes, it does indeed. Thanks.
Name: chris
City, Country: cairns
Sent: 11.35 AM - 8/6 2002
I think it does not matter, what the cheese country of the world is. I just
found it very nice of Rod to offer cheese and bratwurst...and helping out to
get a visa for the USA!
...and I am European also.
Cheers
Chris
RAMON:
Oh yes, I hope you have noticed that emoticon too.
Name: Greg
City, Country: Pemberton, Western Australia
Sent: 4.14 AM - 8/6 2002
I might just buy into this debate a little.
If you have had Ramon to stay with you, you will realise the enormous stress he
carries with him everyday. He can't really relax - he's in the middle of a
fairly significant project that has a certain momentum - and he knows better
than anyone does what it takes to maintain this momentum. Even when he's
'relaxing', he's still working on his plans: reading emails/invites, worrying
about his next lift, sponsors, columns in newspapers back home, is his mobile
charged up enough, what is the public thinking, how should he construct his
project in the coming months... etc. etc! On top of that, of course, he still
has to be a person and a guest. But, he has to do this everyday, because his
'work' is not a Monday-to-Friday, 9-to-5 job. He can't leave his work at the
office. I even wonder whether he sleeps very well most nights, because his body
and mind and pretty stressed and fatigued. Plus he is pushing himself to the
max, as is his nature. No wonder some back troubles have caught up with him!
A couple of years ago, I traveled through SE Asia for 6 months with my wife. It
was tough going sometimes, but even we got tired of being on the road everyday.
We took a couple of small breaks, but somedays were just tough! And we had the
BIG difference of being able to share the workload associated with constantly
travelling, finding accommodation, food and transport. Let alone being bothered
to enjoy the moments in between! Ramon rarely has the luxury of 'taking a day
off' - each guest expects (and deserves, however) their due respect and reward
for their donation towards Ramon's project. The difficulty, I believe, lies in
the 'daily' and 'ongoing' nature of the project. Staying only for a day is
perhaps fine for a few months or even up to a year if someone is superhuman,
but Ramon's project has been going on longer than that. Is the nature of the
project sustainable for so long? Ramon has had some small 'breaks' of sorts
(e.g. a pretty isolated couple of days in the resort in N. Queensland), which I
don't think he enjoyed much at all - he is a people person, a citizen of the
world. So just 'getting away from it all' probably won't do it for him. I'm
sure most of his hosts try to make it as comfortable for him as possible, but
this won't take away most of the things he still has to do/organise/worry
about. The stress is constant (sure, with peaks and troughs), and no wonder he
is fatigued.
Another difficulty is that there is little point in travelling just for the
sake of it. If an increasing amount of time is spent looking after the basic
needs of a journey, leaving little time or energy to actually enjoy it (and
let's face it, he's been through/to some pretty amazing places where we'd all
love to go - some would say he owes it to himself and all those who can't
travel to enjoy it), then it's time to call it quits for a while. Take stock.
Think about something else than letmestayforaday.com. That’s probably the only
real way to take a break and get his mind off things. Destress. Be at home. Chill
out. But this is Ramons call - it’s his project, and he knows himself best. Nobody
has the right to tell him what he should or shouldn't to (except perhaps his
Mum - where is Mrs Stoppelenburg telling him to come home?) - all we can do is
provide some advice, encouragement and support. And not give him a hard time. Ramon
is well aware of his public responsibilities and duties - this is exactly one
of the things that stresses him out. Nobody should think they can 'rescue' him
by offering him a break, because it just isn't possible at the moment. He's not
even the type of person to take such a break/'get away from it all'. Better for
him to rally for the last month, do his best, get home and then sleep for a
month (with the phone off the hook!)
Hope this helps.
Name: cynthia
City, Country: Denver, USA
Sent: 1.06 AM - 8/6 2002
Hello Ramon,
For those questions that are so repetitive...you may have some down-pat answers
that you repeat over and over again. Not so unusual, shorten your answers to
"I've been to Europe and Australia and South Africa." I'm
twenty(something)years old." I remember following an author on his book
tour and in articles and talk-shows, he had the same answers, said them the
same way over and over and over again. And he made them sound like they were
new answers each time...it was his job...I don't think the e-mail sending one
day in advance is such a good idea as when I have Ramon over, I might have a
friend or two over who haven't been following his travels and THEY will be the
ones to ask those questions. Am I expected to brief them before Ramon's visit? (Please,
don't ask Ramon obvious questions because he's tired of answering them) That's
just not natural.
Ramon, my advise, take some time for you (Ramon-time) and don't expect people
to not ask the same questions, you have no control over this, grin and bear it
and make your answers fresh like it's the first time you heard the
question.....think of it as a performance, then as the time goes on, you can
answer more thoughtful questions and get to know your hosts. But take time for
yourself, no one is a performer 24/7.
Your pal,
Cynthia
Name: Rod Nelson
City, Country: Sheboygan, WI 53081
Sent: 12.57 AM - 8/6 2002
Do you need assistance in getting a Visa for USA, How can I help? I know a
couple of congressmen, Petri and Sensenbrenner, Here in Sheboygan I wii feed
you our world famous Johnsonville Bratwurst, and Sheboygan WI is the Cheese
capitol of the World.
Best, Rod
RAMON:
It is still strange how people can call a particular city the cheese capital
of the world, while The Netherlands/Holland is the cheese country of the world?
And the Bratwurst is not world famous, it is just a typical German saucage. As
a EUROPEAN I Just had to correct that Rod ;-)
Name: www.pattycam.net
City, Country: Brissy Again
Sent: 12.42 AM - 8/6 2002
Message to Brian from South Africa!!! My family just spent three glorious weeks
in your country, and yesterday I managed to put the photos in albums (all four
of them!) Feeling a little homesick for those incredible mountains and
people...can't wait to go back.
Name: Patty
City, Country: Brisbane
Sent: 12.38 AM - 8/6 2002
Ramon, you need a big hug and about one week of silence...no questions, no
silly comments, just your own company and some rest and relaxation!
{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Ramon}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
Consider yourself hugged, and hope your back gets better soon.
Name: Rachael Cass
City, Country: Sunshine Coast AU
Sent: 12.19 AM - 8/6 2002
hi,
I"d just likt to sympathise with you. i host many many MANY backpackers
all the time to date i'v had 15 and i completely understand....1 night is not
enough time to spend with 1 family full of awe and inpiration of what you are
trying to acomplish, my small apartment has housed 3 canadians and 2 germans at
one time, and the reason they come here, because it's relaxing.
that and they run out of money but they are always welcome here free of charge
to regroup and regather on there next plans....they love it here...i work in a
cafe so i bring them home lunch and becasue i don't charge they are more than
happy to babydit my wee one. the fact is id on't bombard them, you can't, they
have seen so much and would love to tell you all about it, but need time and
the stories come out on there own, but 24 hours is not enough, i don't knwo how
you do it Ramon?, so many places for such little time, my BP's have stayed for
up to 4 months, they see everything and have a well deserved holiday on
their...well...holiday :)
so if you are fortunate to have Ramon stay for a day...just be there for him,
let him take in the area as he is on little time and know you have givin' him
the bext experience he can get from your area, not chain him to the kitchen
table and a good grilling, have fun, BP's are great and if treated with respect
remain great friends. :)
Name: Leon
City, Country: Enschede, NL
Sent: 12.23 PM - 8/5 2002
Plz keep the digicam from Micheal! That one makes way better pic's....
RAMON:
Michael will be very honoured by these compliments. Unfortunately I still
have my own cammie and he kept his one (way more expensive than mine either). His
digi-photos were made with a bigger resolution than mine and resized to my
regular web size. My own camera has a lower resolution and has the size ready
for immediate upload to the web. That's the little difference.
Name: Acadia
City, Country: Maine, USA
Sent: 12.11 PM - 8/5 2002
Michael Offe's picture looked great!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.31 AM - 8/5 2002
Hi Ramon
You are quite right, answering inane questions is frustrating, and shows a lack
of genuine interest on the part of the host. These are the folk who want their
mugshot on the net, and are using your site as the means of achieving this.
But Ramon, don't worry too much. When you came here, I was filled with
questions too. Many of them never got out, unfortunately. None of the were
"obvious", as I look at your site at about four times a week.
You are doing extremely well, and in only four weeks you will have a break for
as long as you want. So far, you have displayed the sort of tolerance that is
synonymous with the Dutch, this under a hectic timetable and a lot of stress. Well
done.
Perhaps a few days relaxing in a cabin or a tent would be a good idea, doing
nothing other than sleeping, walking, and possibly catching up on reports. But
keeping away from inquisitive people.
Whatever you decide, and can get sponsorship for, we will be right behind you,
supporting you all the way.
Sala kahle, Ramon
Brian
Name: Phoebe Maxwell
City, Country: Adelaide, Australia
Sent: 5.28 AM - 8/5 2002
Hi Ramon,
I saw on your message board that you needed a couple of articles translated so
here's the Italian one for you (found on
www.mediamente.rai.it/quotidiano/news/formazione.asp)
I trust you're enjoying yourself in Littlehampton... Hope you got enough sleep
the other night after Kangaroo Island. The offer's still on to take you
ice-skating at Mt Thebarton if you're in Adelaide and have a few hours free.
A presto,
Phoebe
Let me stay for a day
Ramon, a 25 year old Dutch student and aspiring journalist, has a great passion
- to travel. But like many people his age he has little money in his pocket. So,
how does he go about it? By creating an Internet site to ask for hospitality. Thus
let-me-stay-for-a-day.com was born. Through his website Ramon collects
hospitality offers and organises his trip - strictly hitchhiking!! This is how
he got to his 36th day of travel. Present stop: England. If you want his next
stop to be your place, you only have to log on to the website and fill in the
card that you find there. In exchange, Ramon will recount the details of his
stay, up-dating his site between one stop and the next. An idea that perhaps
other students with a limited budget can adopt, now that summer holidays are in
sight, and thus start a new e-business. For the moment you only gain a place to
sleep, but then who knows!
Name: Wendy
City, Country: Adelaide South Australia
Sent: 3.56 AM - 8/5 2002
Ramon, I do understand and I am sorry if my comments were a bit harsh. I too
enjoyed having you stay with us and being a part of your travel adventure. I
guess it was a shock to hear your comments, but I should not have taken them so
personally. I can understand your frustration and hope you manage to overcome
the problem. As it is, I am glad you shared some stories with us. Troy now has
great plans I feel he may not have considered possible before he heard what you
were doing. Keep your chin up and remember you stars!!! (Which this week said
"More talk on travel!")
Name: Marie
City, Country: Springton, South Australia
Sent: 2.16 AM - 8/5 2002
Hey Ramon, just heard you on PowerFM this morning. Love your website! Finally
something interesting on the web, you got me hooked now.
I heard you are fully booked already, otherwise I'd invite you to stay at my
place in Springton. Have fun on the Wayward bus to Melbourne!
Name: Menno
City, Country: Leiden, Netherlands
Sent: 1.54 AM - 8/5 2002
Donatella, wanna help us with some translations?
http://www.pulsorock.com/foro/showthread.php?s=&threadid=25469
http://www.mediamente.rai.it/quotidiano/news/formazione.asp
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver, CO United States
Sent: 6.58 AM - 8/4 2002
Well, here is my 2 cents. Basically, Ramon has a job that he does every single
day. It's a little bit different than what we all have, but still a job. It can
get tedious. Everyone wants to change certain aspects of what they do for a
living. Let him express his opinions, let him say what he needs to say, for we
all know this helps you continue. If you didn't have co-workers to gossip with,
would you be able to keep sane sometimes? It just so happens that the people
that visit this website are the co-workers and the managers. If they hadn't
read Ramon's reports of his visit, they would have never have known how he
felt. Maybe this is the time when he needs to vent to his
"co-workers" to be mentally and physically ABLE to travel to the next
place. I would tell Ramon, "tell us what you want to say and don't
worry" and to the people he stays with, "don't take it
personally". Life is too short to worry about what someone else thinks of
you. Rest my Beloved mother 7/3/02.
Just some thoughts,
MJ
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 7.31 PM - 8/3 2002
Hi Ramon,
Thanks for the response, that makes perfect sense. I can understand your
frustration with the small and obvious questions. That would certainly become
tedious. And as you say, people who invite you, or journalists seeking an
interview, would surely already know the basics about your travels, name :-),
etc. Heck, I even sought to hear your voice by listening to the interview
recordings here at your site. ;-)
I hope you are feeling much better. Be well, stay safe, happy trails to you.
Hugs [] [] []
Joan
Name: Wendy
City, Country: Adelaide, South Australia
Sent: 7.38 AM - 8/3 2002
I must say we felt a little hurt that our interest in your travels was not so
welcome! We thought we had offered you rest from a busy schedule, providing a
place to catch up on some rest and rehab. With all the TV exposure, radio
interviews and news paper stories many of your hosts would be excited to have
someone staying with them who did have some kind of 'celebrity status'
(understandable), but others were offering it in the true spirit of your
adventure. We wanted nothing more than to get to know you a little, offering
the hand of friendship. I hope that is what you felt, as we never set out to be
an annoyance!
We wish you luck in your continuing journey and hope your back is soon strong
enough to carry you further.
PS: Hope you enjoyed K.I.
RAMON:
Sorry Wendy for making you feel that I meant it personally to you, but I felt
rather welcome at your place, just like I reported about it. My remarks about
my health and certain disencouragements a guest where more of a global view.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 2.50 AM - 8/3 2002
Well, I have been following Ramon from Day 1, and should he arrive at my home,
I would still have tons of questions I think. So I am not sure what else one
would expect. ?? One welcomes a world "internet traveler" in to their
home, and just says "Hi, how are ya? Here's your room and bed, let me know
when you leave!" ?
I think the inquires and inquisitiveness comes with the "job". It is
only "natural" that each host would be full of questions I would
think.
That being said Ramon, I can certainly understand your weiriness and impatience
at times with the same old bloody questions over and over again. "Understand"
in the sense I have not been in the situation, I can only "guess"
your feelings.
But I think you need to think of yourself as a corporate executive who meets
with clients one on one when given the opportunity. The corporate/company
message is clear in emails and out on the web site, but when one on one, it's a
whole different perspective. "Clients" (hosts) will ask about the
vision, where we have been, where we are going. It's the one on one, personal
contact, personal conversation that is important. Not what they have read.
I don't think you will be able to get away from that Ramon. You are a
"foreign" guest, invited via the internet, and your hosts are only
going to natually want to engage in what seems to you as repetitive
conversation. To you, it is the same old record. To them, it is a brand new
day/evening of having Ramon in their home.
Cheers,
Joan
RAMON:
It is of course inevitable that people ask me questions, that was not what
the fuss is suddenly all about. It's more about people asking me questions that
are clearly answered on the first page of my website. For example: if a
journalist calls me and asks me to spell my name, I know he has not eiven read
the first page of my site. What an example of bad journalism, too!
I rather have questions that are related with my travels as an overview, like
how I experienced South Africa as a country, in stead of questions of 'so,
where have you all been' or 'have you been to the US yet?'.
I hope you understand this view.
Name: Jeannine
City, Country: Karlsruhe, Germany
Sent: 9.38 PM - 8/2 2002
Hi Ramon!
Just take some time for yourself, think about waht your idea was meant to be
and what it is right now and if this is still your dream. Think of what you can
do that your situation becomes your dream.
I´m sure you´re going to make your way!!!
Name: Cynthia
City, Country: Denver, USA
Sent: 4.49 PM - 8/2 2002
Ditto, you need time to reflect, get some Ramon-time in.
Name: Marc
City, Country: Dresden, Germany
Sent: 4.48 PM - 8/2 2002
What is people are to lazy to read that email that arrives just a few days
before Ramon actually is standing on their door step? How long would the
document be? And isn't all the information already available on this website? The
front page answers mosts questions and the Frequently Asked Questions top it
all up. Any better ideas for Ramon?
Name: Jennifer
City, Country: Portland, USA
Sent: 4.39 PM - 8/2 2002
Hi Ramon,
I think that you ought to draft an email with a short history of your travels
and your basic information, age etc.. You could send the same email to each
host before arriving. In this email you could also list the reasons you are
travelling and the point of the website. Maybe this way you could skip
explaining these things each time.
Name: Andrea
City, Country: Milano - Italy
Sent: 4.28 PM - 8/2 2002
hi Ramon i read your message on 2 august i would likle to tell you that i
subscribed for let you stay to me not for have my photo on your site but
because i like your idea and then i am used to let stay friends at my home. So
please don't be paranoic: you travel too much !!! :-)) Andrea
Name: Max
City, Country: Leucadia, California
Sent: 4.25 PM - 8/2 2002
Hi Ramon, Maybe this is just the price of successfully traveling for free?? :)
But I think John (below) had a great suggestion: email your hosts a little bio,
link to your website, background info, pics, etc. (like you no doubt do for
your radio / TV hosts). If that's not convenient, maybe a little photo album /
scrap book (with captions?) that maybe your support team could put together for
you? And I think John's idea about setting people's expectations about your
need for time to do you reports etc. is also a good one. After all, you *are*
working (for that newspaper back home), not just wandering! Lastly, Evie's
right on too: get some time for yourself -- even if it's just a day or two. I
can't imagine being "on stage" 24-hours-a-day 7-days-a-week like
you've been doing without going completely bonkers. Time for a well-deserved
rest. And yes, I'm a little selfish in saying all this because I really enjoy
reading your reports and seeing your photos. It's my daily early morning
vicarious mini-vacation :)
Best regards,
- Max
Name: John
City, Country: Portland, USA
Sent: 3.07 PM - 8/2 2002
Ramon,
I could tell by your last email that you are growing weary of the same
questions over and over. What I suggest that you do is compose 1 email for your
host families that answers all of these questions in advance. Tell them what
*you* expect and send it to them the day before or the week before you are to
arrive at their house. If you do this, then you will not have to be faced with
the same 'ol same 'ol every time. Tell them that you need a little time to
collect your thoughts and to answer your email and so forth.
Best wishes and good travels,
John
Name: Evie Fieseler
City, Country: Florida
Sent: 2.58 PM - 8/2 2002
Ramon, hoi alweer, hi again. All I can say is that if I were you, I would by
now absolutely NEED some time totally alone, just to recapture _me_ in all of
this. I know you're a very outgoing person who loves people very much, but
still. Consider finding somebody to sponsor a week for you to be alone in a
tent or something. Or (I'm serious) find a monestary and take a silent retreat
for a weekend or even a week. Your feelings are all normal! You just need to
touch base with your inner self for awhile, and you will be fine.
Evie, wishing you well
RAMON:
Hehe, that big break was more planned in September, not now yet. But indeed,
I'll take things a bit more easier. My medicine man in the backup team tells me
I should go for a hike or do some swimming. We'll see...
Name: Fiona
City, Country: Adelaide, Australia
Sent: 1.33 PM - 8/2 2002
Hi Ramon!
I suppose I'll put my hand up as one of those hosts who hadn't read all you
reports as closely as she should have! I have although this week gone back and
read most of the reports for the last 6 weeks or so! (The computer pools have
been quiet at uni so I have been able to do some secret browsing!)
Your reports are just wonderful! I love the way you describe the people you
meet and the places you have been. You are very witty and I love the humour! I
will miss the detail you give them as you 'slacken them off', but I do
understand! I hope your back is better soon!
take care,
Fiona
Name: Dave
City, Country: Houston, TX USA
Sent: 1.29 PM - 8/2 2002
Ramon... I know your back pain and I hope you are feeling better soon. Enjoy
Australia, it is a wonderful place!
Name: joan
City, Country: ipswich england
Sent: 11.09 AM - 8/1 2002
Hi Ramon I am one of those little old people (70 yrs), who you mention
occasionally. Although I have a few aches and pains and my memory is far from
what it was,my mind still feels the same as anyone half that age. Im only
teasing you Ramon. I came across your site, on the internet somewhere, a couple
of months after you started and was very interested, thought it was a wonderful
idea. I read those then my computer gave up. I was without it a long time. It
was May this year before I got back to you and I have had all these months to
catch up on your travels. I have read every line since then and am right up to
date. I still have to go back to look through all those photos though. I
thoroughly enjoy reading all your stories. It is good to have something on the
net to get really interested in. I also enjoy reading all those messages on the
message boards. Thank you Ramone and everyone else
Good Luck Joan
Name: Hardik Patel
City, Country: Chennai (aka Madras) India
Sent: 1.08 PM - 7/31 2002
Hey Ramon, its great to see what you are doing right now. You act as an
inspiration to people like me to do something in life which is exciting. Way to
go Ramon. By the way, can you lemme know as to when you are gonna come to
India. While you are in India, please feel free to accept my invitation which I
sent you a couple of months back. Hope you have a splendid journey ahead of
you. Looking forward to meeting you.
Regards,
Hardik..
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.24 AM - 7/29 2002
Hi Ramon
Well done on chirping in the comedy show. No matter what the comedians say,
they love a mild heckler. It gives them material. And you, being a visitor,
were the ideal material for a good comedian.
I do the same thing here, coz I'm originally from Cape Town. South Africans not
from Cape Town are jealous of the place, so they poke fun at us. When a comedian
askes if there is anyone from out of town, I tell them, and they raise the
roof.
So well done, you did well. Happy trails, and it seems you might get a bit of
time to go to Taz after all. Hope you do.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Fiona
City, Country: Adelaide, Australia
Sent: 4.08 AM - 7/29 2002
I finally got Ramon to Triple M this morning for his radio gig!
It was fantastic sharing an evening with Ramon, even if we didn't convert him
to AFL!
Best of luck with your Adventures Ramon and if you ever do head back to
Adelaide and need a place to sleep, please ask! I'll make sure we ditch the
sofa bed though- sorry for the bar in the back!
And for everyone else, Ramon is the perfect houseguest!
Fiona
Name: Wendy, George and Troy
City, Country: Adelaide, South Australia
Sent: 5.40 AM - 7/28 2002
Ramon arrived safely in Adelaide on Friday. Enjoyed a night out being the
centre of attention at the Comedy Club where he gave as good as he got! (He was
the main topic of one comedian who didn't know Ramon was sitting front centre!)
After a late night night he returned to the backpackers hostel for a good (?)
nights sleep. I met Ramon next morning at the Beehive Corner in Adelaide, went
for a stroll along North Terrace before returning home to local suburb
Rostrevor for lunch and a nap. Ramon had brought the good weather again so we
all went for a walk to the local Morialta Falls (where his Adelaide pic was
taken). Unfortunately the fine weather disappeared over night and it has rained
off and on since! Off to new hosts today in good spirits, ready for the media
attention coming through the week.
Name: Allen
City, Country: Santa Cruz, California
Sent: 8.44 PM - 7/27 2002
I do miss the friendly souls of Australia. Wonderful people. What a great idea
you had in doing what you are doing. When do you think you'll start your
journey through the United States? Hope you have a year or so.
Take care and be safe.
Allen
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis area
Sent: 3.54 PM - 7/27 2002
About Pat Welsh's comments that what Ramon is doing is nothing new: I think
it's true that many people have hitchhiked around or whatever, but has anyone
else ever shared their adventures with so many people AS THEY HAPPEN the way
Ramon is doing? Some people have traveled and written a book, or given a few
media interviews (such as a guy from some European country who is now swimming
the entire length of the Mississippi River.) But what is unique about Ramon's
adventures is all the stories and pictures of real people far away from us all
that we can enjoy very soon after they happen via his photos especially, week
after week. Sometimes I get annoyed with Ramon for some reason but this
adventure is not all about just him; it's about all the people and places he
encounters and then SHARES WITH THE WORLD right away. It's community building
on a grand scale. But you're right that many travelers have experienced
goodwill from their hosts throughout history. We ought to ask Bedouins to share
some of their folklore with us about hospitality from strangers. I bet they
have a lot of stories about it.
Enjoy the journey, everyone.
Name: Coralie
City, Country: England
Sent: 3.41 PM - 7/26 2002
Hi Ramon - wow you really are seeing a lot of this world , who have thought it
- I remember seeing your name in our paper all that time before you set off ,
now look at you ??? You are also showing the world that there are a lot of good
people in the this world of ours - ...keep up the good work -
Hugs
Coralie
Name: Alexandra
City, Country: Adelaide, Australia
Sent: 2.45 PM - 7/26 2002
Hoi! I am a huge fan of Dutch people :) I think this site is really cool! A
friend from Holland recently back packjed around Australia. perhaps we could
catch up? Doei! Alexandra :)
Name: Pat Welsh
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 12.36 AM - 7/26 2002
Well done lad hope you are going well on your travles although what you are
doing is nothing new, ask any CB user who as travled they did the same and stay
with radio friends I .y self have had ofers to stay in different parts of the
world , keep it up i think it s great,
Pat
Name: Gus Campbell
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 11.50 AM - 7/25 2002
Hi Ramon, I see you are nearly in Adelaide, the home of Australias best wines,
best women (arguably) and the dryest state in the dryest continent in the
world. Sounds inviting doesn't it especially if you love nice big round juicy
morsels in your mouth (i'm talking about grapes of course). I look forward to
having you to stay for a day if you make it to the Adelaide Hills Ramon, i will
endeavour to get you to wherever you need/want to go with as much media
coverage as you require while you stay in South Australia.
Kind Regards
Gus Campbell
Name: Vanessa and Darrell
Nattrass
City, Country: BOULDER
Sent: 10.39 AM - 7/24 2002
The offer to come and Stay in Boulder is, of course, still open.
Don't miss the Goldfields, you'll regret it!!
Have sent you an email with info. on FREE TRAIN TRIP TO BOULDER.
Adelaide can wait. Plenty of transport from the Goldfields over to the East.
COME SEE THE GOLDMINING CAPITAL OF THE WORLD!!
Vannessa and Darrell Nattrass.
METROPOLE HOTEL,
Name: Greg James
City, Country: (Now) Perth, Australia
Sent: 9.47 AM - 7/24 2002
Just dropped Ramon at Perth bus station to set off to Adelaide. He's in for a
long three day journey, and so he'll be looking forward to a nice massage when
he arrives. Ladies...? I think he might be a bit hungry too!
Disclaimer: I was forced by Ramon to write this message.
Name: Maureen
City, Country: Denmark, WA
Sent: 7.36 AM - 7/24 2002
Farewell Ramon -Hope your trip to Adelaide is full of adventure for you. It
looks as though you will be leaving in the rain :( Did you have a guinness or
two when typing your Denmark report mate #;-) Can you alter my web page address
to http://www.members.iinet.net.au/~kcbrown/ Thanks for the link to the
Yorkshire Posts too. Anyone from Yorkshire out there should take a look at the
link. A great place to visit. Have a safe journey. Maureen, Kevin and Bella.
Name: Greg James
City, Country: Pemberton, Western Australia
Sent: 2.44 AM - 7/24 2002
I guess because Ramon stayedwithusforfivedays.com, there was quite a collection
of stories to tell. But because he was also taking a break (or
wasitbecausehedidn’tlikeus.com? or ishejustalazybum.com?), not all of those
made it into his reports. Let me fill in some of the details a little…
The cute little girl with red hair? That’s Josiene, our beautiful daughter. If
any Hollywood producer, advertising agency executive, or world class fashion
magazine editor is reading this post and wishes for a Nicole Kidman child
double, ‘face of …’ star, or downright sassy lady-of-the-world, then
giveusabellrightnow!.com. By the way, she is great at collecting chicken eggs.
The little boy with the killer smile? That’s Jasper, our
son-of-mischief-and-fun-and-cuteness. Ditto above, except he’s still learning
to collect the eggs…
The rooster? The rooster was an illegal immigrant who escaped from out of the
neighbour’s chookyard. And we ALL KNOW WHAT WE AUSTRALIANS THINK OF ILLEGAL
IMMIGRANTS, don’t we! In his own yard, other bigger roosters were giving him a
hard time, so he became kingofthekids on the outside, terrorizing the chickens
up and down the back laneway, leaping into their cages for a casual rape, and
waking up Jasper at 5:30am by cock-a-doodle-dooing outside his window,
neverminding what would happen when there was a full moon. The clincher was
when he attacked our poor old bantam rooster in the middle of our lawn, who is
well past his prime, but living out his days in a life of idle luxury in our
chook pen. The bantam (‘Pake’ is his name) was nearly pecked to death, except
that Minke came out of the back door of our house just in time. Enough became
enough! Our other neighbour (Murray, as featured in one of the photos) had been
hanging around for weeks waiting for his chance, hanging out his shed window
with a ‘wind shooter’ (in Dutchlish), um, air rifle. Then, whilst Minke was out
and only Ramon was home, he snuck through the gate in the side fence between
our homes, slunk down our yard commando-style (through all the duck-poo), and
POW! The Rooster was an ex-Rooster. He was first transferred to a bucket in
Murrays’ shed, and now resides in the forest on the other side of the road. Suchislifeinthecountry.com!
Ramon didn’t get the chance to take the obligatory photos.
The train? Pemberton received some unwelcome bad publicity a couple of weeks
ago when Australia’s Public Liability Insurance crisis finally caught up with
the town’s steam train and tram (amongst others) and the State newspaper ran a
negative story on it. Things looked grim, but the owner, who is a train buff,
at great personal expense, has managed to broker another deal that will allow
him to operate again! Joy, joy, the weekend morning ‘toot-tooting’ and romantic
coal-smoke drifting across town as the train puffs out of town is back again,
much to Jasper’s delight! The rest of the state of WA thinks it’s great too –
the paper ran a small follow-up article. So, Pemberton is NOT dying – it’s a
great little place, so comeandvisitusinPemberton.com!
The cat? Ramon and Siepie had a bit of a relationship going on. Siepie went
into Ramon’s room each night and went to sleep on his bed. When he didn’t come
(he was working on his reports), and so she came out to get him. One night,
THREE TIMES!!! Then we didn’t see either of them until about 10am next morning.
Check out the love in their eyes in the photos!
Siepie is now missing Ramon terribly. The first night after he left, she sat on
top of the fridge all night and just stayed there. She missed her bedtime
companion. Minke has finally managed to coax her down.
Letmewashyourdishesforaday.com. It wasn’t all fun and games for Ramon – we did
finally manage to drag him off his computer and wash a few dishes. He even
carted a wheelbarrowload of gravel for me! Still, I guess he did have a pretty
cushy time. He even informs me he is a master chef, although most of his guests
never get to see it or know about it … oops, sorry Ramon, did I just sell you
out?????!!!!!
I’m sure there are a few more tid-bits, but I’ll leaveitatthatfornow.com
Cheers!
RAMON:
What can I say... Thanks Greg!
Name: Brian B
City, Country: Garner, NC, USA
Sent: 3.44 PM - 7/22 2002
Ramon, I know the days in Pemberton must have been relaxing. Especially since
you stayed with a Dutch family.
I just read in the forum that you
will be taking a break in Holland again after leaving Australia. I'm anxious to
discover what part of the world you'll open our eyes to next.
RAMON:
Well, Brian, that's all up to anybody who wants to sponsor me in getting
somewhere
:-)
Name: Danielle
City, Country: Canada
Sent: 3.33 PM - 7/22 2002
Hi Ramon! My names Danielle and I just wanted to let you know I think what
you're doing is so cool!! My mom always follows where you go on your website. We
just registered our house for when you come to Canada! We're also friends with
Karin and Tom Spence, who's house you just stayed in while you were in
Australia!
Name: Maureen
City, Country: Denmark, WA
Sent: 2.43 PM - 7/22 2002
Hi Ramon, It was great having you stay with us. We wish you could have stayed a
little longer though. Hope all goes well with the rest of your journey. Keep
smiling. Maureen and Kevin.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.21 AM - 7/22 2002
Hi Ramon, Joan, and Emma, and everyone...
Joan, thanks for your comment. Have you heard that world class Ozzie comedian
Kevin Bloody Wilson go on about how people sound so different? It is worth a
listen, if you can handle a bit of dirty humour.
Emma, thanks for your comments as well. Ramon is indeed a wonderful person, and
the more people that can tell the world that thru their own experiences, the
better for Ramon, and untimately the better for all of us.
Ramon, if you need a break, then ask to stay another night. You don't have to
be shy, we understand, it's incredibly hard work you are doing.
One more thing, Bret from California says hi to everyone. He is happy that the forum is still there. Speaking
of which, I'm off to see what's new there...
Sala kahle to all
Brian
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.29 AM - 7/21 2002
Brian,
I know what you mean about accents. I love hearing various accents from
different countries, that is why I was anxious to hear Ramon's voice. My mother
is British, so I am obviously quite familiar with that accent since I visit
Britain often.
Aussies I hear often with the stars in TV and movies. South Africans less
often. However, I am a car racing fan, and watch Thomas Schecter, South
African, in the IRL (Indy Racing League), and have even chatted with him at the
Indy 500.
I have also been fortunate to visit Brazil and loved hearing the Brazilian
Portuguese language (a truly Romance sounding language, much softer on the ears
than Spanish I believe), and I loved their accents when speaking in English.
As I am sure is true in many countries, there are accents and dialects in the
USA. Sometimes I have trouble understanding the "Southerners"
(Southeast USA) accent when speaking English.
I grew up in New Jersey, USA, which has a distinct accent in the Southern part
of the state. Then I lived in Boston, Massachusetts for several years, which
has a whole different accent. People in Boston jokingly made fun of my New
"Joisey" accent! Hmmph! :-) I now have a mixed mongrel accent, living
in the Southwestern USA.
Cultures, languages and accents are interesting!!
I love the world we live in - 'cause it's the only one we have! :-)
Peace to all on Earth, someday, I pray!
Keep on truckin' Ramon!
Regards And Hugs to all,
Joan
[] [] []
Name: Maria
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 5.52 PM - 7/20 2002
Emma, I love your comment on the forum. It seems you and Ramon both were pretty
impressed by his visit at your place :-)
Name: Anne
City, Country: Armadale: Perth : W.A.
Sent: 4.47 PM - 7/19 2002
Hey Ramon,
Have u already left Perth??
What about the invitation to stay with us?
I s'pose you have had 100's of invites to stay with people, but we were looking
forward to meeting you in person and having 'you-stay-for-a-day!!!
Never mind, mischien een andere keer!!
Enjoy
yor trip across the Nullabor wen u do it!! We did it 6 months ago and we LOVED
it!!!!
If u get the chance ... Albany is a GREAT spot as well!!!!!
Regards, Anne B.
Name: Emma
City, Country: Peppermint Grove, Western Australia
Sent: 1.29 PM - 7/19 2002
Hello to all of Ramon's supporters and followers...
thought I should come on here and say hi, as Ramon mentioned there were a
couple of messages about me/us!
Firstly let me assure you that Ramon was not in the best of health on the extra
night he stayed with me. It wasn't so much sickness, more sheer exhaustion and
fatigue! The poor guy just needed a break from the whole "Hi, who are you?
where have you been? where did you get the idea..." etc etc. He fitted
into my family immediately, and within an hour I felt like I'd known him for
years. We 'clicked' immediately and had long conversations about just about
everything! When he told me how exhausted and drained he was, I offered him to
stay another night- after all it was a different house so it wasn't exactly
breaking the rules of his project!
I couldn't believe the comment from one poster that Ramon didn't want to go
from 'upper-class' to 'lower class'!!! I have never read such rubbish! You are
talking about a guy who was quite happy to sleep in the back of a car? You
think a suburb's reputation is really going to matter to this guy? He shared
stories of staying in tiny shacks in Africa, made of tyres, rubbish and street
litter. Any house would be a palace compared to this. Ramon is not travelling
easily, or in much style- could you live out of a backpack travelling daily for
over 16 months??
I thoroughly enjoyed Ramon's company, and look forward to seeing him again. If
any of you reading this have not yet invited him to stay- don't hesitate at
all! Invite this warm, funny, adventurous man into your life.
~Em
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Afrcia
Sent: 6.30 AM - 7/19 2002
Hi Ramon
Now THAT is something worth putting on a video clip, a walking fish! I've never
seen or even heard of such a creature.
The closest thing to it is the Mudskipper, but I really don't have much more on
it. It does not really walk, sort of waddles along on its pectoral fins out of
water.
How does Jaimes' fish walk? Does it also use its pectoral fins? Are they
adapted only for walking? Feet? Toes? Or do they get used in the more
conventional sense while the fish swims? Does it swim?
Jaimes, how about putting a little story about your strange creature on the
messageboard, so that we can learn about it? It sounds quite facinating. What
made you get it? How long does it live? What does it eat (presumably not the
other fish in the tank...)?
Ramon, these are the little things that must surely make your journey special. Little
things about people, what they do, what they have, or don't have, little
interesting titbits about the human behind the person.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.10 AM - 7/18 2002
Hi all
Matt in Oz, don't feel bad, mate. Your internet industry is apparently much
better than ours here in SA. Also, Ramon's ISP have to allow him that extra
storage space for huge video files. The messageboard already has a limit in
size, and the forum was interrupted...
But yes, it is indeed a brilliant idea, Margaret.
Ramon, as usual, my sincerest wishes are with you. Keep strong, and continue
with the accurate journalism.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: matt
City, Country: cessnock australia
Sent: 4.11 AM - 7/18 2002
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis area
Sent: 4.25 AM - 7/18 2002
Just a few comments today:
(2) Why doesn't someone give Ramon a digital videocam and have him post a few
digital video clips as well as still photos? Has that possibility been explored
by anyone? (Would you do that if someone gave you one?)
Margaret in australia we have stupid download limits and slow internet even our
broadband so even if ramon had a digital camera he wouldnt be able to upload
video because of our slow boring internet and dumb download limits these are
all because a company here telstra wants to earn more money (www.telstra.com)
Name: Chris Egan
City, Country: Mandurah, Western Australia
Sent: 3.42 AM - 7/18 2002
Great website. Ive taken an interest from when you visited Karratha as that is
my old home town and you have been going to all the places i have been. Many
western australians know about him as he was featured on the news and on radio.
Hope the trip goes well
bye
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis area
Sent: 7.25 PM - 7/17 2002
Just a few comments today:
(1) Like Joan, I listened to your voice interviews (Canada, BBC) for the first
time today, too. They are great!
(2) Why doesn't someone give Ramon a digital videocam and have him post a few
digital video clips as well as still photos? Has that possibility been explored
by anyone? (Would you do that if someone gave you one?)
(3) I often play Hearts (a card game) on www.flipside.com, and fairly often end
up playing with Australians. I always ask them if they know about your project
or are following your website, and invariably they say NO. I always tell them
to take a look at it. This tells me that you are not yet a household word in
Australia. But maybe that will change by the time your visa is up.
Well, stay safe and grateful as always.
Name: Kylie
City, Country: Morley, Western Australia
Sent: 2.31 PM - 7/17 2002
Hi Ramon,
You may have cut your own throat (have you got offers for travel over east?)
with your comments towards Lizs' father like that knowing full well how many
people read your daily reports.
I tell people about what your doing and the first thing they say is
"freeloader" then when they think about it, they are actually envious
and wonder why they didn't think of it themselves., they then say "good on
him". Being judgemental sucks and I think you owe Liz and her family an
apoligy.
Happy Travels,
Kylie
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.17 AM - 7/17 2002
Ramon,
Thanks for the links to the voice interviews. I am embarrassed to say I had not
visited that area of your web page after all this time! :-( I loved the
interviews, and yes, now I have heard your voice! Thanks again!
Joan
Name: dragan
City, Country: banjaluka, bosnia and herzegovina
Sent: 2.40 AM - 7/17 2002
hi ramon, i followed your trip last year , glad to see you are still on the
road,you are wellcome here too, good luck!!
Name: Cynthia
City, Country: Colorado, USA
Sent: 11.16 PM - 7/16 2002
Hi Everyone and Ramon,
I agree with Margaret in Minneapolis, many gruff people have a soft inside. What
would Liz and her father think when they read your report, Ramon, misunderstood
I suspect? I enjoy your descriptions of people but not the hasty judgements, as
it doesn't make interesting reading.
I find the older I get the more interest I have in figuring people out, and a
certain joy when I can't. I can relate with all age groups, more so than when I
was a young buck, or buckess in my case.
So Ramon, how do you go about romancing Emma when you're on the road? Remember,
be attentive. She may respond well with this and you have the ability to be
quite creative.
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis area
Sent: 7.43 PM - 7/16 2002
Well, your story remains interesting, no matter what.
Thanks as always for your stories and photos!!!
HOWEVER: I know you don't need me to say this but I've got to say it anyway: I
am disappointed by the way you bad-mouthed Liz's father. (1) Some people are
gruff and overdirect by nature, and it doesn't mean they aren't good people
necessarily. They may just be of a different sort; sometimes they are people of
whom it was originally said that "ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN
WORDS>" Think of all the smooth-talking people who will deceive you,
rip you off, etc. Your description reminded me of ways my father often
communicated . . . people had to spend time with him and empathize to get the
full benefit of his inner goodness sometimes. But he was a rock of stability
and responsibility. I wonder if you had any chance to ask Liz about her
father's character?? (2) He didn't invite you into his home!! His daughter did.
Why should he have to make small talk if it doesn't come naturally to him? I
just can't see writing what you did for millions of people to read when you
were actually the one infringing on his turf without his invitation . . . and
your knowledge of him as a person was so limited.
I tell myself you are growing up as you go through your adventures. If you
really do travel another 5-10 years, it'll be good to observe the maturation
process do its work.
Again, I apologize for this message that sounds like criticism. I just can't
NOT speak up for folks like my father was. Look at their total lives, not just
their charm or lack of it, before making your appraisals. And show respect for
people's parents.
Thanks for reading this.
Name: wendy
City, Country: narrogin, australia
Sent: 6.45 AM - 7/16 2002
Ramon, I've been really interested/entertained by your adventures. I am curious
though, the other day when you didn't move from upper class (leafy private)
Peppermint Grove to lower class (housing estate) Girrawheen, were you really
ill. I hope so, I'd be disappointed if you weren't allowing yourself to
experience all on offer. Wendy
RAMON:
No that is really a strange comment! How can I already figure out the
differences between rich and poor in a big city of Perth within one week? And
than, have I ever cared about differences? All I ask is help in food and a
place to sleep, so anything goes. A posh hotel in Norway or a mudhut in South
Africa: I won't complain!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.31 AM - 7/16 2002
Hi Ramon
It has certainly been a week or two of adventure, and perhaps some mental
torment. Having to sleep in a car, having no water in a desert, flies, strange
winging tourists, and even losing your Spits contract. And then, not being with
your dad on his 60th.
Well, I am glad that you are well. But then, having met you, I knew, and
expected, that you would weather well. you are far too strong to let these
things bother you.
Keep going, Ramon, you are doing an incredible job, and no-one can ever deny
that.
Joan, as for what Ramon sounds like, well, he has a "typical" (can I
use that word?) Dutch accent, and speaks English surprisingly well. I really
hope that he has not picked up that Ozzie twang with all the Ozzie slang, if
you know what I mean. One should try to retain one's cultural features.
But hearing Ramon with a touch of Oz would be rather amusing, especially if you
don't expect it. Actually, I've met some wonderful people from Scandinavia, and
I s'pose it applies to any country where English is not the dominant language,
who have American accents. But then, they learnt English from watching American
movies. Ramon learnt English by learning English, so his accent is genuinely
Dutch.
Also, accents sound different depending on where you live. While in London, I
met up with a Texan, a New Yorker, and two chaps from South Dakota. They all
thought I was Ozzie! (Quite a few people from outside SA think that.) And my
Belgian friend says I have a British accent. So, what does anyone sound like? Well,
like anything in life, it depends on your outlook.
Once again, Ramon, keep that strong outlook, and speak exactly as you want to.
Hamba kahle.
Brian
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.08 AM - 7/16 2002
Ramon,
Excellent points about the TV idea. I stand corrected. I agree, this is an
internet project, and TV following you and into people's homes would ruin the
intimacy of the visits. Bad idea. Keep on doing what you do the best! :-) Yuor
ideas and your approach is the best.
Regards,
Joan
Name: Mike W.
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 10.52 PM - 7/15 2002
Good theat you employer has kept you on after all, have they perhaps realised
that they may have some financial/copyright claim on you if you publish your
story in some form in the future or am I just being cinical?
Also do you ever worry that some less scruplious travelers may try to copy you
but for different and exploititive reasons? (i.e. JUST to save money, sponge
off others but without giving anything back? I note that you always give
credit/publicity to people/organisations as far as possibe who help you out.
Anyway keep on going. I've adopted your tactics on reporting my frequent
travels to friends and collegues on a daily (if possible) basis on my last trip
with good success and intend doing same on my next trip to South America in
September. Fortunately there are a Hell of a lot of Internet Cafes out there...
Name: Jeannie D
City, Country: in France
Sent: 10.07 PM - 7/15 2002
Hi .... don't know if you remember but before you set off in the first place I
sent you a short note wishing you luck and just a tiny bit of motherly advice :
NEVER wear your cap in anyone's house !!! enough said -
and if SHE should be the right one this time, I wish you all the best. Bye JD
Name: Tammy
City, Country: Sonora CA, USA
Sent: 7.18 PM - 7/15 2002
Dear Ramon: Do I detect a little love connection between you and Emma? Your eyes
were sparekling for her it seems. Or does you heart still hold a space for
Ireen? Just curious?
Tammy
Name: Arnold Timmerman
City, Country: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Sent: 6.35 PM - 7/15 2002
Hi Ramon,
Thank God Sp!ts decided to prolong their deal with you. Only short-sighted
fools in journalistic Holland would not come up with a creative solution for
the slight inconvenience they signed for in the first place: missing one of
your columns because there is no way you could be on line.
I'm glad that people send you emails criticising your honest and clear
reactions to some situations you encounter travelling the world. It gives me
the opportunity to tell you what a great challenge you chose. Reading your
stories it's clear that you feel the luckiest guy in the world since you've
been fulfilling your dream. Actually, being lucky doesn't have anything to do
with all the good things (and bad things) that happen. You chose to travel in a
unique way. You chose life. Because of that, things, people and fortune come to
you. If other people wanna experience that kind of blessing, they should choose
life as well, in whatever way.
Leaving the tour you were offered and going for a beggar's life for 4000
kilometres takes guts (one for the record: beggars can't be choosers? no way!
beggars cán be choosers!) Some people say that was not according to your
original plan, but who cares? People roll through their lives, never taking a
chance, telling their friends their job is okay when in fact they don't even
remember why they applied for it in the first place. Worse: they woudn't be
able to point out why they dón't like what they're doing. You made your move
right away and told everybody why, straight up. Cheers for that.
And, no one in this world is better off being thanked for everything, being
approached with a smile all the time. People think it's a condition for
universal love. In short, when people invite you, and you accept, both wishes
are fulfilled. Everyone happy. End of story.
I hope you will enjoy all the ups and downs on your travels and that you will
share those highlights with us in all honesty. Be grateful to yourself. You're
the one who made it possible for so many people to appreciate the stories you
live.
Take care, buddy.
Arnold
Name: Marty
City, Country: Raleigh, NC - USA
Sent: 3.48 PM - 7/15 2002
Ramon,
Been following you off and on for a while now. Too bad that Spits didn't need
your columns ay more, but I wish you would be more reasonable about the way you
reflect on stuff like that. After all, they can hardly be held responsible for
your affairs in Holland while you travel the world.
I have noticed before how you tend to get a bit whiny when things aren't going
your way, and that's too bad. Try not to be so critical all the time of other
people (i.e. British travelers on a tour that was offered (!) to you). After
all, you've come this far, haven't you? I really don't think you have THAT much
to complain about, considering all the support you have received to this point.
Yet, you frequently come across as pretty negative and judgmental, to the point
of being cynical about things other people would consider a blessing to
experience....
Just take things as they come your way, and be grateful. And a bit more
gracious, maybe?
Keep it up,
Marty
Name: paul (lazystudent.co.uk)
City, Country: UK
Sent: 12.18 PM - 7/15 2002
Hi Ramon
We still follow your travels, its amazing how far you have got. We are in the
middle of building a new site for lazystudent and we have just put your site at
the top of the travel journals section.
What a fantastic idea you had it seems so long ago now, I'm sure we will get to
meet up sometime in the future.
Take care and travel well
Its Ok to dream
regards
Paul lazystudent team
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.35 AM - 7/15 2002
p.s.
As I spin my Earth globe in my office, and review where you have been thus far,
I estimate you have another 10-15 yrs to go! :-) At least! :-) I am sure you
won't do this for another 15 yrs, but maybe 5-7, before you settle down. But
who knows, this could be your calling for life, like many travelers. I am
hoping that a video camera crew catches up with you soon, and you are on the
way to a Travel Channel series. I watch the Travel Channel religiously, and
there are video traveler series from many years ago, such as the old Lonely
Planet 30 min segments.
How about it Travel Channel, National Geographic??? We would like to see the
videos of Ramons real life travels, staying in peoples homes who invite him to
stay!! I think these journeys are worthy of video now, for future series! We
are enjoying a great series here in your reports and digital photos, but I
think it is time for video, and a future video TV series! Time is being lost,
we need the video! Crikey!!!!!! It's time to make this a TV Series for the
future!
Or is this just my vision?
Cheers,
Joan
RAMON:
I will keep on travelling as long as I enjoy it and as long as it is made
possible for me thanks to ordinary people on the internet and sponsors. I might
have some breaks during my travels, but that might only be to get some rest.
Television is welcome to film me, but I will NOT EVER let them travel with me
and let TV stay with the same people I visit. Imagine when I get to your place
with an entire camera crew: would you be yourself? Would you have the same
talks with me as without the camera(s)? Definitely not.
Where would a TV-crew sleep? In the same house like me? Are the hosts expected
to cook for them too? Whoever would film me about my NO-BUDGET travels and have
their tv-crew pay for hotels and motels for these nights is rather fooling
himself very much.
This is an internet project and will always be an internet project. If people
want to film travellers that travel like me, buy the TV-format for
the Letmestayforaday-TV Show or movie-rights of my
stories, because I don't want to have my travels being "Controlled"
by TV. TV can only be an instrument, just like radio and newspapers, to be used
to promote the project.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.28 AM - 7/15 2002
Hi All,
Ramon, enjoying your travels as usual. I was following on my globe in my office
today as I read the recent stories. I found most of the recent places on it. Fun!
Something occurred to me today. We know lots about you :-), and your travels,
etc. I was wondering what you "sound" like? Would you consider a
voice greeting on your web page? I'd love to hear your voice, speaking English
(since your site is English - but of course a message in Dutch would be great
to hear as well.)
Just a thought. I "see" you and "read" you daily. Hmm, what
does Ramon "sound" like? :-)
Not that you need this advice now, but a tip I had heard from my cousin from
England who travels the world. If you get to a not so good/safe area of the
world where you travel by bus or train at night, he locks his backpack to his
seat/bed/himself, so it is not stolen while he is sleeping. Also has little
locks on all zippered compartments. He learned this from backpackers hostels as
he traveled the world in the last few years, perhaps you have already heard of
this tip.
Take care, hope to "hear" from you soon!
Regards,
Joan
RAMON:
About hearing my voice, there are some sound bites available on the
media-about-page, like the interview the Canadian
Arthur Black had with me for CBC radio when I was in South
Africa, or one of the early ones like BBC Five Live before I actually departed
(nervous and bad English haha).
Ludo had lots of audiofiles on his "Where Is Ramon" website, but
unfortunately he couldn't update those map-pages anymore. I hope to upload
those Mp3-files to the Letmestayforaday-server pretty soon.
I know all about those backpackers that seal everything they own, with their
fears of everything getting stolen. I haven't been to countries yet, where that
occurs, and I don't had any of that mind set in the countries I have visited
and I'll never have that in Australia. Maybe it's a thought for Asia, but I
don't want to have ANY stereotypical thoughts yet. I'll see when I get there.
Name: Jan en Joke Stoppelenburg
Sent: 9.22 PM - 7/14 2002
I would like to thank everybody who sent me a birthday wish. They all gave me a
support and heartened us for missing Ramon.
We also got shy of all glorifying words about Ramon. We don't hope Ramon read
them too because he got too big for his boots now already ;-))
We hope everybody will enjoy his adventures, stories and pictures.
And Ramon, take care and safe travels
Name: Rene Mak
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 6.05 AM - 7/14 2002
Any Interstate truckers out there, that can give this guy a ride across to the
other side of the country?
RAMON:
The chance will be big that somebody would give me a lift when I start
hitchhiking along the road. Problem is the distance, it might take 3 days to
get there and would anybody take on a hitchhiker WITHOUT ANY MONEY along for a
ride? Would a truckie help me out with something to eat?
Name: Randall
City, Country: Huntington Beach, California USA
Sent: 11.22 PM - 7/12 2002
Sorry about the earlier post. You'll get here if you get here, and I hope to be
here if and when you do.
Continued Happy Travels.
Name: Nada Ross
City, Country: Gold Coast, Queensland
Sent: 9.56 PM - 7/11 2002
Dear Ramon,
I was feeling kind of sorry for you for a while there, sleeping in the cold at
the back of a car and having to wait for hours on lonely roads waiting for a
lift but HEY what an adventure it turned out for you and our anticipation at
waiting to find out the next day what you will get up to and who will pick you
up and where. It was a unique experience you will never forget.
You would have missed out on Karatha and their wonderful hospitality, the fruit
stall etc etc.
I dont think you will see much from the plane nor meet the local folk that way
and I for one will miss your adventures of the rest of the West Australian
coast.
boo hoo but blessings come in different disguises so you never know whats
around the next cloud.
Your photos are just great of the outback and depict the true colours and life
there. Keep well
Blessings to you..........Nada
Name: Randall
City, Country: Huntington Beach, (Southern) California
Sent: 7.07 PM - 7/11 2002
It's a lot of fun to read of your travels and adventures, and I look forward to
your reports. When do you (or do you at all) plan on making it to the US?
By the way... I had wished to send your father a birthday greeting, and regret
that I missed the day to do it. Please send him good wishes from Sunny Southern
California!
Name: Michael Offe
City, Country: South Australia.
Sent: 3.45 PM - 7/11 2002
Happy Birthday Jan!
All the best from South Australia!
You have a very intelligent son, and he came up with a brilliant concept for
his world tour.
We are looking forward to Ramon's visit in the next month or so.
Yours sincerely,
Michael Offe,
South Australia.
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 10.41 AM - 7/11 2002
I would love to send your dad an emial but his mailbox is not accepting mail
from my yahoo account.
But if he reads this: happy birthday Jan! Enjoy!
Name: anna
City, Country: the netherlands
Sent: 10.47 AM - 7/10 2002
Is Perth your last place to stay in Australia or are you also going to South
Australia and Victoria?
RAMON:
Of course I'll be going there too! My Australian tourist visa is valid until
September 4.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 4.34 AM - 7/10 2002
Heya Brian,
Hey, stop seeing me smiling! :-) Yea, I guess Ramon did not even like Daniela
enough to hitch a ride with her. Must have been a really bad overall
experience. Oh well.
Chris R. - true, travel distances are a matter of perspective. I grew up in the
Northeastern USA (New Jersey and then Massachusetts) and a 4 hr trip was a big
deal. I now live in the Southwest USA and 3-4 hrs is no big deal. It's all a
matter of perspective as to the landscape where one lives. Miles and miles of
nothing is common here when leaving the city. The next main city is 2 hrs away
- 2 hrs of straight highway, of nothing in between besides some mountains and
fields.
Ramon, I am wondering what the speed limit is on these highways you are
traveling lately? Here the speedlimits on the Federal Interstate Highways are
usually 75 mph. 55-65 mph around cities, main exit areas. What is the speed
limit on the roads you are traveling these days? You always report the
mileage/kilometers to your destination. How about the speed limits (if they
exist)? Thanks.
Best wishes to you all. What a great group we are forming!!!! Someday, after
Ramon's travels are over, we'll have to somehow plan a huge reunion of all the
followers and supporters! WOW, wouldn't that be fantastic!!!!!?? I vote for
Hawaii reunion! :-)
Joan
Name: Chris R.
City, Country: Austin, Texas USA
Sent: 8.01 PM - 7/9 2002
Hey Ramon,
I just have to chuckle at how amazed you are at the distances in the Outback! I'm
reminding myself it's because you are a European, where everything is so much
settled and countries are so much smaller that you have just had no chance to
see such a thing before. I myself just shrug and think it looks a lot like a
lot of places here in the US. Wait'll you get here and drive for hours across
West Texas sagebrush country, or maybe Kansas cornfields or even the emptiness
of Nebraska. The worst is Nevada, where everything is just brown, brown as far
as you can see, no cactus, no bushes, no nothing, just brown for hours and
hours and hours .... lol! Well, I'm sure you'll see soon enough. For now,
thanks for the pix! It looks great to me! :-)
Name: Ron
City, Country: Sydney Oz
Sent: 10.43 AM - 7/9 2002
Hi Ramon,
Keep on trucking enjoy the wild life
I forgot to give you an emergency bottle of Hennesy Cognac
for those lonely cold desert nights
But Ill keep the bottle of Hennesy Cognac closed until you get back to sydney
Have fun mate see u in Sydney.....
C U
Ron
Dutch On-Line
Sydney
www.dutch.net.au
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.02 AM - 7/9 2002
Hi Joan
Just a reference to your comments about Daniela going to Broome and then to
Perth. I guess that Ramon was not, well, swept away by Daniela!
Ok, that was feeble, but at least it brought a smile to your face! And don't
try to hide it, I can see from here... ;-)
Ramon, you keep on going, bud. And keep that book in mind, I'd love to read it.
Methinks it's going to be more of a twenty volume encyclopedia. Irrespective of
how you get there, you still get there, and it is these experiences that enrich
you, and give us the facinating articles.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Nada Ross
City, Country: Gold Coast, Australia
Sent: 5.00 AM - 7/9 2002
Dear Ramon
I have been following your reports for the past few months after seeing you on
our TV news and offering you accommodation which sadly you didnt get a chance
to use.
I look forward to your emails with anticipation and am re-living your
adventures in the outback, which we have, as a family done a few years ago. Thank
you for all the photos of our huge amazingly beautiful country.
You are an inspiration to freeloading and travel.
Remain adventurous and follow your heart.....
God bless you..........Nada
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 4.48 AM - 7/9 2002
Ramon,
Thanks for the return of the message board versus the forum format. Much better!!!!!!
Joan
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 4.40 AM - 7/9 2002
Ramon,
Great travel diaries and pics, as usual. I love it!!!! Some comments and
observations:
Judging from the pics, I doubt those ladies on the tour were 65, as you guessed.
I would think in their 50's just like the British couple.
I think you were too hard on them, but not being there myself, it is hard to
say. It just came across as you being not open to the age difference. After
all, they are nearly the same age as your parents! :-)
I have to think that if they signed up for a trip like this, they would expect
the "roughing it" aspect, but also would feel free to say probably
innocent things like "Brrrrrrrr, it's damn cold", or "I sure
miss the local Pub!". :-) And even say things like ""Perfect. I
like it when things are easy." regarding some of the hikes/trails. I give
them immense credit for signing up for a camping trip like this.
I am 51, and remember what it was like to hike the mountains of New England
(Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont) when I was in my 20's. I remember the sweat and
satisfaction climbing Mt. Washington during all seasons - even in Winter, to
ski/slide down the bowl area. Today, I like adventures, but also like the
easier trails yet want to enjoy the nature. People get older ya know. :-) I
cannot keep up with a person in their 20's today, and would never profess I
could. Nor would I sign up for such a trip myself now. Give me the nice hotel
room! :-)
I thought perhaps you would continue on a bit and keep Daniela company! "Daniela
is not going to do the full 24-days trip to Perth. She gets off after the first
11 days in Broome. She has planned to drive the distance from Broome to Perth
by herself in a car of her own." I thought this was a perfect opportunity
and was expecting you to report that you continued on to Broome, and then drove
to Perth with Daniella. Guess I guessed that wrong!
Agreed though, perhaps you would have had more fun with a group your age. Sorry
that did not work out for you, but also sorry you had to leave the tour. I hope
you did not miss out on too much.
Funny, I could not help when reading your report about getting frustrated
(impatient) waiting on the others to return after a hike...."He needs a
ciggie"! I thought "Chill out Ramon, sit down and have a cig!".
Then, low and behold, when you were given some money the first thing you bought
was a pack of cigarettes! See, I just KNEW you needed a ciggie!!!!!!! :-) I
laughed and laughed, and being a smoker myself, I knew the feeling!!!!!!
On June 30th you wrote: "I crawled out of my tent this morning at 5.30 in
the morning and said "What a beautiful day!" in my utmost British
accent. Four grumpy old individuals looked at me and totally disagreed with
that. The cold of the morning was the conversation topic of the entire
morning.'"
On July 1st you wrote: "Because after the sun had set, the coldness set in
immediately....." "I am kind of prepared for the
cold"...."my backup team and my friends at home gave me advice on how
to survive a cold night like this in a car."..."I would be fine. I
would be okay. I would just think about that warm shower I had this night, and
about how the campfires from the previous days glowed in my face and kept me
warm out there and I would think about how hot it will be during the day and I
would just forget how cold it is."
Stop f**king whining about the cold!!!! :-) Not only did those British ladies
go on about it, so did you! :-)
Ramon, as always, thanks for the adventures, your stories, your honesty and sincerity,
and your most excellent photos. You continue to be an inspiration for travelers
(and tourists). And as always, thanks to your hosts/hostesses, and all the
sponsors! It is a marvelous adventure which you are sharing with the world! Indeed
those of us who are following you have learned an encyclopedia of information
about the places you have visited - actually, quite better than an encyclopdia,
as you not only tell us the informational data (thanks for all the links in
your daily updates about the places you visit!), you also tell us about the
every day living experiences - things we often cannot find in an encyclopedia! You
are a world guide in more ways than just reporting on places. You are reporting
on PEOPLE! Most wonderful!
I just had to make my observations. You know me, I follow every thread and
update. :-) I have been wondering ever since your first announcement as to why
you left the tour. Now we all know, you just needed a ciggie! :-) j/k Like I
said, not being there, not being you, we cannot know the exact feelings, but I
think you relayed your feelings well. You just wanted some more down to earth,
and preferably, closer to your age, companions, on that tour. No harm, no foul,
as they say.
Keep on traveling, be open, be safe!
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Trevie
City, Country: Amersham, BUCKS
Sent: 11.55 PM - 7/8 2002
http://www.dingosanctuary.org/dingo.html
I have found this web site all about Dingos...
This will answer your questions..
Trevie
Name: Cynthia H
City, Country: Denver, USA
Sent: 11.06 PM - 7/8 2002
I forgot to ask another question, anyone can help me with and that is this: I
heard that the dingo is the only land carnivore and it is not native to
Australia. Is this right?
Name: Chris R.
City, Country: Austin, Texas USA
Sent: 8.35 PM - 7/8 2002
Hi Ramon,
I just want to say I agree with Cynthia from Denver that it is not all older
folks who act that way! I am a 52 year old grandma and I LOVE camping and
adventure - the rougher the better. You won't catch me in too many fancy luxury
hotels that's for sure. I have a daughter-in-law from Lima, Peru. She is only
32 and complains all the time about everything. So it's the person, not the
age. I bet you'll be a cool old geezer yourself when you get to be your dad's
age, right? (wink)
Keep on truckin'. There are LOTS of us, older folks included, who are having a
wonderful time vicariously enjoying your adventures. I just wish I could be
helping you out when you got stuck. I've been there too, and know what that's
like.
Oh yes, and I also did send birthday wishes to your dad, and told him he should
be very proud of his son!
Name: Cynthia H
City, Country: Denver USA
Sent: 7.59 PM - 7/8 2002
Hi Ramon,
I'm twenty years older than you and I think I'm very tolerable and open minded,
I don't think you should blame the age difference as I take offense at that. We're
not all like the British ladies. I eat with my hands all the time. I also
wanted to ask about the wildlife... I was under the impression that there was
an abundance of fauna yet as I recall, you've seen crocs and snakes and flies
and dead kangaroos...anything else? Also explain the difference between a
traveler and a tourist as I thought you were both.
I feel sorry for Dave, maybe you should have stayed
with the tour as a comrade for Dave the tour operator. Anyway, I sent B-Day
greetings to your Dad. I enjoy IMMENSELY your journey and your website.
Name: Trevie
City, Country: Amersham,BUCKS
Sent: 6.35 PM - 7/8 2002
Hi Ramon, I see you are having trouble with those Brits, I feel so ashamed that
british people cant shut up and stop whinging for five minutes and enjoy what
they have or where they are.. On Holiday. If there isnt a kitchen sink, British
people are the first to moan. I feel more annoyed about it than I should, as I
am not actually there. Its really winds me up..errrr
Name: Diane
City, Country: Exmouth
Sent: 6.19 AM - 7/8 2002
Like Nomi (below), I also discovered your website from a yahoo group and I have
been following your exploits on a daily basis. Sorry about your "friendly
welcome" to WA. I enjoy your photos and very unique and honest style of
writing. What a pity you missed out on Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef. All the
best as you tour the rest of WA.
Name: qin ying ran
City, Country: china
Sent: 2.57 PM - 7/7 2002
hi. mmmmmmm, seems you visit many country, but u never think to come to china
ever once. why??
RAMON:
It is always fascinating that people know what I think... I only think about
visiting ANY country when I am very near that country at that particular moment
or when a sponsor might be able to get me there. I have, for example,
absolutely NO reason NOT to visit China. I'll get there when I get there...
Name: Nomi
City, Country: Tel-Aviv, Israel
Sent: 1.43 PM - 7/7 2002
G'day
Sounds like you're having a pretty incredible trip. I just got turned on to
your website through a forum on yahoo groups. I'm an Ozzie myself but, I've
been based in Israel for the past 8 years. I'm all for travelling around the
world, I just don't do it in one go. I spent a year in the States, which I
recommend....particularly, New Orleans, Arizona, Boston and Seattle....a few of
my favourites. I'm about to take off again and travel for a couple of months
before landing in Vancouver for a year. Who knows, maybe we'll meet on the road
somewhere.
Enjoy and keep up the good work of promoting travel and showing everyone how
small this world really is.
Nomi
Name: Eddy
City, Country: Bunbury Western Australia
Sent: 8.16 AM - 7/7 2002
you are on your way to the greatest place on earth ,Bunbury Western Australia
home of the imfamous Hash House Harriers with over 1000 recorded runs & of
course the drinking of the mighty amber fluid .WE run & drink every
Wednesday at 6pm .If you want a good laugh & of couse a drink or three you
should be there .More imfo from the Big Blue Building when you arrive in
Bunbury (another famous landmark )on on !!!
RAMON:
Hi Eddy, I am not unfamiliar with the Hash House Harriers. My parents joined
that group of runners/drinkers when we lived in Indonesia in my early years.
Then back in The Netherlands there are several HHH's and of course we joined up
there to do an annual Indonesia reunion Hash. I remember the last one I did a
few years ago and I couldn't really drink that much beer yet. I bet I'll run
better now, but I just don't have a place to stay in Bunburry yet...
Name: John
City, Country: Portsmouth
Sent: 11.46 PM - 7/6 2002
Did you get an get out of free jail card?
RAMON: I got one of those passes with which I can get in and out
whenever I please- isn't that great?
Name: Trevie
City, Country: Amersham, BUCKS
Sent: 11.43 PM - 7/6 2002
In your reports about the Kakadu National Park you says there are six seasons,
You have only stated five of them, what was the Six season. Please could you
also state all the months they fall,
cheers as I couldn't quite work it out.
RAMON:
You are the first! What a good way to test my readers, huh? ;-) At this link you can read an Introduction to Kakadu
which thoroughly explains the 6 seasons.
Name: Clayton Mohekey
City, Country: Busselton -- Western Australia
Sent: 11.29 AM - 7/6 2002
Hi ya good to see that you have made it this far.
What ever you do dont go back east with out seeing what the sovth west has to
offer.
You will find great wine and warm homes.
Hope to catch up with you down here.
Name: dennis rivers
City, Country: kingston england
Sent: 11.14 AM - 7/6 2002
like what ur doin m8 keep it up. i would like to to do some thing like that to
some day as well.any way got to go now cya ltr bbbyyyee
Name: dbk Tom
City, Country: NZ
Sent: 5.55 AM - 7/6 2002
great reports those from the Kakadu National Park.
Beautyfull photos
Name: Cheryle Robbins
City, Country: Dallas, TX USA
Sent: 4.41 PM - 7/5 2002
Do you know when you would be visiting the US continent?
RAMON:
No. Please read the FAQ.
Name: Melanie
City, Country: Karratha, Western Australia
Sent: 10.55 AM - 7/5 2002
Just saw you on TV. Hope you had enough places to stay here, otherwise you
could've crashed here. Sorry I didn't know what you were doing.
Name: annemarie
City, Country: zwolle, The Netherlands
Sent: 8.01 AM - 7/5 2002
You did'nt know that hitchhiking is forbidden in Australia??
RAMON:
I did some research about that before heading to Australia. The Australian
law says "thy shall not stand in road", which actually means that I'd
be not allowed to hitchhike ON the road. Most hitchhikers are smart enough to
stand next to the road, otherwise they'll become roadkill like all the
kangaroos and cows I have seen along the road...
Hitchhiking is prohibited when practices on busy highways or at certain
dangerous spots. Of course I always have to keep in mind that a possible lift
has to be able to stop at a safe place, withouth disturbing other drivers.
Just don't wave at police cars...
Name: Gerben
City, Country: Zzzwolle, Holland
Sent: 8.47 PM - 7/4 2002
Good God! So they've finally got you. About time. How much did you pay for that
picture ;-) Hope all is well. Don't worry about me Ramon, I'll be in France for
a year or so (short holiday). Let me know if you want to crash. I've got some
great wines.
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 6.36 PM - 7/4 2002
disturbing traffic on the highway?? ramon, firstly I've thought it was a joke.
I'm sorry for what's happening over there. I hope things to turn into good very
quickly.
buona fortuna, donatella
Name: acadia
City, Country: MAine, USA
Sent: 3.03 PM - 7/4 2002
Back-up Team - Have you gotten Ramon out of Jail yet? What is he going to do
now?
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Port Hedland, Australia (at this moment)
Sent: 2.38 AM - 7/4 2002
Well...
There you had a messageboard and I changed it into a forum. There you had the
external forum and the boys out there decided to quit their service; no more
forum.
Here is the messageboard again, for you pleasure of simple posting, reading and
scrolling!
Name: Natalie Lam
City, Country: Hong Kong , China
Sent: 7.22 AM - 7/1 2002
Hi guy,
From the time you plan to have the "free trip" I read your website
and daily report. A year past already, when will you stop teh travel ? Do you
miss your family?
Actually I wanna to know your nationality.
Best Wishes !!
Name: tapperij De Joffer
City, Country: Holland
Sent: 1.26 PM - 6/20 2002
Great site, also your column in the HSK which we follow every edition.
When youre back to your roots we invite you for free drinks all night long to
tell us your adventures.
Good luck,and lot of greetings. Remco&Jan
Name: Munk
Hometown: Zwolle, Netherlands
Sent: 9.10 AM - 6/18 2002
Lily, wouldn't it have been less rude to send your comment to Ramon's e-mail
address instead of this guestbook for all to see?
RAMON:
Oh Munk, you should have seen her busy. She kept on going on this
messageboard, so I removed messages that were simply inappropiate for this
page. Then she started to call that censorship by email ("people like
u always do...u can't bear for people to see the truth.....in my line of work,
that is called censorship") and calls me a coward in the next one ("i
will be more than happy to tell people myself......i have my own
resources"). I am happy I did not stay with this person after all!
Name: Munk
Sent: 9.10 AM - 6/18 2002
Lily, wouldn't it have been less rude to send your comment to Ramon's e-mail
address instead of this guestbook for all to see?
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.30 AM - 6/18 2002
Hi all
Jeez! I go away for a long weekend of hot air ballooning, and a volcano erupts!
Well, two volcanos!
Firstly, to Lynn, I think that Bret and the others have said it quite clearly.
Do not judge another until you have checked out his intentions! You really do
not have any right to say what you said.
Ramon has stayed in many countries, and with many people, myself included, and
the vast majority of these people were delighted to host him, and sad to see
him leave.
Lynn, you clearly do not know Ramon, so let me tell you about him. Ramon is a
kind, gentle, and decent young man who has a spirit of adventure and a heart of
kindness that is hard to find elsewhere. He has utmost respect for his hosts,
and is quite open about virtually every topic of discussion. He does not expect
anything more than a place to sleep, and a meal. These are the requests he
makes on this website, and you invite him subject to that. Even months later, I
still feel immensely honoured to have hosted him.
Secondly, to Lily in Darwin, you are being very hard on Ramon. Again, to relate
to my personal experience with Ramon, he handled the situation quite
acceptabley with me. He called me on a Friday afternoon, if my memory serves me
correctly, and said that he would be in Durban on the following Monday. I was
so happy to hear from him. We made the arrangements, and I collected him from
his previous host on the Monday after work.
Now Lily, if you had visited Ramon,s website at least once in the last month or
so, you would have realised where Ramon was, and you could surely have figured
out where he is headed. I'm sure you are clever enough to figure out that he
was heading towards you. Then, keep your phone close by, and listen to your
voice messages.
Please people, do not ridicule Ramon. He is a tremendous gentleman, and he has
a huge task in this project. If you really want to help, then do so. But if you
just want your mug shot on the net, and insist on complaining all the time,
then perhaps this is not for you.
Ramon, keep strong, dude, and don't let these palookas put you down. You are
doing great, and you have many supporters out here. Keep going.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Emma Rohrlach
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 4.52 AM - 6/18 2002
Ramon, I have to recommend that from Darwin you continue around the north west
coast and make your way down to Perth. Stop in Broome and go to the beach, then
see if someone invites you to the mining towns, like Newman or Paraburdoo. Say
hi to the dolphins at Monkey Mia, snorkel the ningaloo reef and say hi to some
whale sharks... See the amazing wave rock, and the pinnacles... come through
Perth and stay with me- see Cottesloe Beach (its better than bondi, and don't
let any sydney people tell you otherwise!).
I also noticed someone mentioned the Barossa Valley in SA, definitely go there
if you get a chance! Amazing place full of old german heritage, good food and
great wine!
Good luck with all your journeys, and thanks for telling the world how
wonderful Australians are!
Name: Joop Mul
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Sent: 3.19 AM - 6/18 2002
What a shame that I did not see this earlier. How typically Dutch. What a nice
challenge. Just jealous. Would have liked to have been of assistance when you
were in Sydney.
Joop Mul (born in Gouda) 46 years in Oz.
Name: Melissa
City, Country: London, England
Sent: 7.11 PM - 6/17 2002
Well, I'm only 16, but it's people like you who have convinced me that I am
going to travel as much as possible while I'm still in my youth, despite my old
fashioned family who think that I should settle down right away. I don't think
I'm brave enough to do it all for free though... anyway, thanks for the
inspiration. When you get around to writing that book (I'm a hopeful
author-to-be too), I'll be the first in line to buy it.
Happy adventures!
Name: Sharyn Brown
City, Country: Townsville, Australia
Sent: 1.05 PM - 6/17 2002
Ramon,
Just a quick note to say thanx for coming to visit. As you may have guessed, we
love having visitors and meeting new people and it was great to meet you. If
you ever come back this way (in the next 50 years or so...) feel free to call
in again! I would like to say it might not be as hectic, but I doubt that, as
its always chaos.
I hope you enjoyed your short stay (except for the bacon!) and the bus trip
wasn't too bad for you!
Enjoy the outback and the rest of your fabulous adventure! Will keep track of
you.
Name: Lily Morgan
City, Country: Darwin, Australia
Sent: 1.00 PM - 6/17 2002
g'day,
i initially offered accomodation to you in darwin...some months ago
i have had no response from you, either via email, letter or phone and consider
this to be extremely rude and displaying a distinct lack of manners
i received a message on my mobile ph this morning, and upon checking your site
note that you plan to be in darwin this evening!
do you really expect me to drop everything and welcome you into my home at such
short notice?????
i think not!!!!!!!
invitation withdrawn!!!!!!!
RAMON:
Dear Lily,
If you have invited me through my website, you have probably received an email
to confirm your invite. This letter also told you that I would contact you at
least a week before I would get near you.
Please understand I have over 3300 invites from 68 countries, the website gets
over a million visitors per week and with the life I am living on the road and
with people EVERY DAY I just can't send emails to everybody who has invited me.
"I will contact you" is what my autoresponding email clearly said.
I have called your phonenumber 6 times since last week, even way back in
Townsville and left a message on Saturday afternoon. When I arrived today in
Darwin I simply asked you to contact me, because I wasn't getting any possible
contact with you at all.
Just look at it through my perspective, I have absolutely no reason to be rude
or anything like that to anybody who has invited me over.
If we would get in contact any other way after your email to me, I would
politely have asked when it would be possible for YOU to have me over. You are
never asked to drop whatever you do and to welcome me TODAY. It's even up to
you to say "sorry Ramon, can't do" and I will thank you after all.
Name: Suzie
City, Country: Wembley, England
Sent: 11.02 AM - 6/17 2002
Read about you in a British Magazine. Just wanted to say Good Luck with your
travels.
Name: Carol
City, Country: Northern Ireland
Sent: 10.00 AM - 6/17 2002
Is it just me or does anybody else reckon that the guy who gave Ramon a lift
from Tully to Townsville is really Osama Bin Laden? The yanks are wasting time
in the Afghan caves - they're not even in the right hemisphere- OBL is alive
and well and picking up hitch hikers down under.
Name: Lupe
City, Country: Rosario, Argentina
Sent: 7.51 PM - 6/16 2002
Dear Lynn,
Shame on you...
The world is like this because it is filled with people who won´t do a thing
for anybody else but them...
It is no surprise for me to find that this message was written by an north
american (a country which doesn´t even have a name of their own) -they suck
south america´s blood but won´t give theirs to no one-
My country is suffering a lot for the FMI and the world bank won´t give us any
help. I consider they are very unloyal... for when they needed to lend their
money to someone so as not to reduce its costs, they made arrangements with our
military governments so that they would accept it at very high risks -obviously
for the generations that would come next-
Dear Ramon,
I hope we can soon have you here despite the terible situation the country is
in. We ARGENTINIANS -and I dare say it in the plural form- welcome you arms
wide open.
Name: ian
City, Country: wakefield england
Sent: 7.39 PM - 6/16 2002
Just read about you in british magazine.Iwish i had the bottle to do it .All
the best Ramon.your doing what most of us dream of doing.
Name: Alex
City, Country: Edinburgh, Scotland
Sent: 6.50 PM - 6/16 2002
I read about your expedition in a British newspapers' magazine. I think what
you are doing is so cool and it has really inspired me. I will be following
your journey with pleasure. :)
Alex
Name: Balinder
City, Country: London, England
Sent: 5.19 PM - 6/16 2002
I read about your site and your expedition in a British newspaper- had to visit
it and see what it was all about. You are my hero. When I grow up I wanna be
just like you.
Name: Nicci your Noosa Friend
City, Country: Bristol, UK
Sent: 1.23 PM - 6/16 2002
Hi Ramon, Still following your journey mate, Han and I
got the photos developed from skinny dipping in Noosa, there is a full frontal
of u but luckily Han only caught a piccie of my bum!
She thanks u for calling her Laura as she can remain anonymous! Can't believe u
told the world about our frolicks in the sea but it was all good fun - Han will
email u the photos soon, I think they are a bit naked for the message board!
Take it easy, we are now home in the UK where it is definitely too cold for
skinny dipping!!
Name: acadia
City, Country: Maine. USA
Sent: 11.19 AM - 6/16 2002
Lynn,
You misunderstand Ramon's journey. It is not to get whatever he can for
nothing. It is to spread friendship and inform the rest of us along the way of
what and who he encounters. Please take the time to read his site and check out
the rest of the Daily Reports, see for yourself.
Ramon,
Thank you for responding to me. I understand that there many countries out
there and the US is only one of them. But I maintain that everytime you mention
the USA in your reports it is in a negative way. That is a shame. I look
forward to what you have to say once, and if, you actually get here. I hope
people come through and you see a side to this country that will change your
outlook. In the meantime I will continue to enjoy your reports from places
afar, that I have only dreamed of visiting.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.43 AM - 6/16 2002
Bret and Lynn,
Bret, thanks for your response to Lynn. I think Lynn perhaps just "stopped
in" and did not take the time to learn about Ramon's project. The USA's
problem with foreigners is related to illegals, not legitimate travelers, which
Ramon is.
Lynn, true, there is a heightened "sensitivity" to illegal folks in
the States these days, but that is not by any means obstructing usual tourism
and travelers. (Though the questions and document checking may now take longer
when going through Customs than in the past!) I doubt Ramon would have any
problems entering the States and staying here during his project, with all the
proper VISA documents, which I am sure his support team researches and takes
care of.
The "freeloaders" are indeed a problem here - the "ilegal
aliens" who enter without proper credentials. It is a problem, but not
Ramon's problem, and I do not think he will have any problems, nor would he be
considered a "freeloader" in the sense of the illegals who enter. Not
even close.
Thanks for visiting us Lynn, but please read up on Ramon's humaritarian and
peace loving project before making judgements. We are all often rushed to
judgement - myself included at times - but in my heart I know where Ramon's
heart is, and the general purpose of his travels.
He is a good man and will be welcomed in the USA!! Not as a freeloader, but as
a good will ambassador visiting people from all walks of life in the USA!!!!
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 2.12 AM - 6/16 2002
Lynn, Lynn, Lynn!
You should really wake up and start reading message boards and looking at web
sites before you make such ridiculous remarks. Your an embarrassment to us in
the USA. Then again Lynn, you might be one of those who are just trying to get
a "rise" out of your remark, to spark some (more) controversy. We've
been through this already, and are well aware that Ramon is far from a freeloader.
I'm willing to bet he works harder than you do. How do I know this? I read the
message board and learn? Every time I come here I learn! Enough said.
Alessa, from Dusseldorf,
I don't think visiting the USA is anymore interesting than anywhere else in the
world. It just seems to be the most recent discussion right now. Ramons agenda
as I see it, is whoever will sponsor him to the next country where he has a
fair amount of invites is where he will go. If he has a round trip from the
Netherlands to Australia, and ends up back in the Netherlands. He'll make the
best of it and tour around Europe until his project takes him else where.
Ramons like a river, he goes with the flow and the least resistance. Makes
perfect sense to me. I hope he get's to Dussuldorf as well as Japan, and
everywhere else as far as I'm concerned. It's a win, win situation for us who
enjoy his journey. Keep on trucking Ramon.
RAMON:
I have a return flight to The Netherlands, but I doubt if I will use it as
New Zealand and Southeast Asia is just around the corner. If I go back to the
Netherlands, it might take a while before a sponsor would fly me to the other
side of the world again...
Name: Tamara & David
City, Country: Kewarra Beach, Cairns Australia
Sent: 11.37 PM - 6/15 2002
Good luck Ramon with the rest of your tour of Australia. If you are here in May
2003, drop in for our wedding!
Name: Lynn
City, Country: Providence, USA
Sent: 9.55 PM - 6/15 2002
Fellow Americans, stop and think before requesting Ramon to visit the states.
We have enough FREELOADERS here already.
Why add another one to the pot.
RAMON:
Just another fine example of No Understanding = No Respect....
What a nice world we live in, don't we?
Name: annemarie
City, Country: zwolle, netherlands
Sent: 5.31 PM - 6/15 2002
when do you think you'll go to south australia? I recommend you barossa valley!
Name: Coralie
City, Country: England
Sent: 11.49 AM - 6/15 2002
Hi Ramon
your really doing great , we are just looking at last years holiday video in
Jersey , and we are laughing at the times we were saying , "Well soon we
will se Ramon!" oh dear !
please say a prayer that ....."England wil win at football against
Denmark!"
take care of yourself.
loads of hugs
Coralie
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 2.52 AM - 6/15 2002
Ramon, congratulations to you on completing a year and one month of your
project. Thanks to you, the hosts, sponsors, and the back up crew for allowing
everyone to enjoy your travel. Great team work! I wish you the best through out
your second year. Your reports are very informative, and what makes them even
more enjoyable to read is your great sense of humor.
I hope that you will soon make it over to this side of the world. North,
Central and South America are waiting for your visit. Great diversity and
exciting places to see. I am sure that once you are over on this side, you will
receive plenty more offers to stay for a day. There are still a lot of
wonderful places I would like to see over on the other side where you are, so
take your time if you must.
Stay safe, happy, and keep going.
Nina
Name: michael
City, Country: germany
Sent: 6.47 PM - 6/14 2002
jealousy...!
good luck!
Name: Sarah
City, Country: Canada
Sent: 3.21 PM - 6/14 2002
Hi Ramon
Glad to hear your travels are going well. Just been reminiscing about North
Stradbroke Island just off the coast of Brisbane. How's your all over tan going
?!?
Good luck for the rest of your journey mate.
Name: Acadia
City, Country: Maine, USA
Sent: 12.13 PM - 6/14 2002
I just wanted to add my best regards to Ludo. I hope his poor health is a
temporary situation.
Name: Acadia
City, Country: Maine, USA
Sent: 10.30 AM - 6/14 2002
My husband has hitchhiked from Maine to Florida, and has motocycled from Maine
to California all alone. He did both these things with little money and a
backpack. I have known many people who have backpacked all over the US
including the Appalatian Trail. I'm not sure where Mark has gotten his
information (possibly bad experiences himself?) but things aren't like that all
over. There is a series of great articles in a magazine called People, Places
and Plants that follow a man's bike journey across the US, including both good
and not go good.
Ramon it seems that you are willing to give up on us here with out giving this
country a chance. The world view of the US is a dim one, I know that, but we
have great people here too, just like any other place.
RAMON:
Arcadia, no where I am sayting that I am not going to visit the US. For me
it is JUST one of the 68 (!) countries, please keep that in mind.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.20 AM - 6/14 2002
Hi Ramon
It's facinating to see the time and temperature readings where you are. I log
on in the mornings SA time (GMT+2hrs), and I watch the temperature drop from 28
down to about 26 or so.
This happens while the sun rises here, and we go from about 18 up towards 26 or
so later in the day. This just puts the whole scenario into perspective, the
sun really does set in Oz as it rises here. You are on the other end of the
world.
Look after yourself over there, Ramon, and be good (or at least be good at it).
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Sharyn
City, Country: Townsville, Aust.
Sent: 3.48 AM - 6/14 2002
Well Ramon is now safely aboard his bus bound for Cloncurry and Outback
Australia. We had a great time with Ramon the short time he stayed with us.
Loads of funny and fascinating stories to listen to. If you get the chance and
you haven't already, invite him to stay, you won't regret it!
Ramon, take care with the rest of you amazing journey and stay safe.
:)
Name: Linda
City, Country: Dallas, Texas
Sent: 7.35 PM - 6/13 2002
Hi,
It's really neat what your doing. If you ever get to the USA I'd volunteer to
let you stay with me for a day! Good luck with your travels and don't get into
trouble. Be careful and keep the updates coming. I think what your doing is
really neat!
Name: Shawn
City, Country: Toronto
Sent: 6.42 PM - 6/13 2002
Don't you worry Ramon, Canada will do just as well as the Dutch (and the
Australians) in the World Cup this year. :)
Name: Crystal
City, Country: Calgary, Canada
Sent: 6.25 PM - 6/13 2002
Hi Ramon,
I just finished reading your story in the Calgary Sun, and I ran upstairs to
check out your website. And I have got to say Wow! I wish I had thought of it!
I am actually slowing starting to travel, however at the moment it is limited
to Canada....Do you have any plans on coming here?? You should it is a
wonderful country. Well good luck on your many adventures I looked for to
checking them all out now.... :)
Name: Janice
City, Country: Ohio, USA
Sent: 4.34 PM - 6/13 2002
Ramon, Hitchhiking is done in the US all of the time. You just cannot do it on
major freeways and Interstate roadways. You must wait at an on ramp or off ramp
to catch a ride. Also, have never heard of anyone being arrested for not having
any cash in their pocket. If that were true half of America would be in jail.
They only arrest you if you remain in one place for an extended period of time
and then rather than arrest you they take you to a homeless shelter where they
provide you with room and board until you can get back on your feet. Where do
some people get their information?
Name: wolf
City, Country: houston texas
Sent: 7.49 PM - 6/12 2002
the note from mark about hitchhiking and vagrancy . yes hitchhiking is illegal
on state and federal highways, but local roads are not enforced mostly .
Vagrancy - can be avoided with proper id's and 20 us$ in pocket beside most
police forces don't need the hassles of hassling someone .As for the fear
factors TV is American's IDOL GOD and does more harm than good here in the
states . Am looking forward to you visit here.
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 11.42 PM - 6/11 2002
HI Ramon!
I look forward to your wonderful pictures...everyday!
:)
MJ
Name: alessa
City, Country: düsseldorf, germany
Sent: 9.37 PM - 6/11 2002
hy, this is so amazing, my first thought: why haven´t i got this great idea?
it´s the genius who gets the ideas, you know! i hope your able to travel far
more and not to mention that my doors are open, but i guess düsseldorf is not
that far interesting and much to near to your home!?
just one thought to this america-discussion: why should it be more interesting
to visit the US than any other country? i believe on the
"all-praised" equality, so i don´t believe the americans being much
"friendlier", you know,it´s a great place to see, and there are a lot
of nice people, but where´s the difference to japan, you see. Otherwise,
doesn´t we know the US from europe? ;)No reason not to go there and find the
truth as far as possible!
Enjoy your trip, good luck, alessa
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.17 AM - 6/11 2002
Hi All,
I think Ramon will see once he arrives that the United States is a great place
to visit. I recommend he make his first stop the previous site of the World
Trade Center Twin Towers, and then go out to the USA from there. I believe you
will have a most excellent trip Ramon, in the land of the free, home of the
brave! :-)
Regards,
Joan
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis area
Sent: 4.57 AM - 6/11 2002
About Brian-(from South Africa)'s suggestion that you try to get invitations to
Alaska, as a matter of fact, Peter Jenkins who wrote WALK ACROSS AMERICA in the
'70s recently wrote a book about discovering Alaska!!! At his ripe old age he
is still looking for, and finding, adventure and open hearts and homes. I'll
try to get the title and send it to you, even if you don't have time for
reading. You're doing the traveling now, but he's a good example of someone who
has also done the post-adventure writing very successfully. Hey, I can't wait
til you ARE in the U.S. I can imagine all kinds of 'bad' and 'good' things that
you will encounter but most of all, I want Americans to meet someone like you.
Name: Cynthia Holdeman
City, Country: Colorado, USA
Sent: 2.05 AM - 6/11 2002
Hi Ramon,
About traveling the US, I've been a traveler all my life and love to visit but
always return to my beautiful homeland, many times without money. The more I
travel, the more I appreciate the freedom we have here in the US. There are
good people everywhere and we've signed up to assist you in your travels here.
Traveling anywhere you must make adjustments but you'll find you will have many
options. I do agree though, Americans watch too much TV and unfortunetely rely
only on that form of information. Maybe you can travel Canada and just say you
were in the US. Just kidding you Canadians. Really, just kidding.
Name: Shanon Graham
City, Country: Texas, USA
Sent: 12.52 AM - 6/11 2002
I hope you don't become a victim of Mark's propaganda about not being able to
travel "freely" in the US. He did you a disservice. I've lived and
traveled around the world and America is far from a "controlled Fear
Factory". Come and see for yourself!
Name: Sara and Anna
City, Country: Maastricht, The Netherlands
Sent: 6.45 PM - 6/10 2002
Hey Ramon,
This has to be the best idea ever!!! Brilliant! So cool that you got so far by
people´s "charity"... We want to be like you, can we stay with you
for a day (or more)??
Greetz from Maastricht
RAMON:
You are welcome to stay at my place, you just have to wait until I get back
home.
Name: Bob
City, Country: Indiana, USA
Sent: 5.27 PM - 6/10 2002
Mark, the American ex-patriate, apparently, has an axe
to grind. Even though certain highways and areas have
laws against hitch-hiking, when I was a college student, many years ago, I
hitch-hiked from Florida to New York (over 1,000 miles). It is possible, today,
if you do not stick your thumb out in front of the police. Also, I am 56 years
old, and I have never heard of anyone being arrested for not owning a dollar
bill.
Name: Bas Dekker
City, Country: Haarlem, Holland
Sent: 2.25 PM - 6/10 2002
Hi Ramon! I enjoy your reports every single time, and the pics make it very
easy to travel along with you. I don't know if you ever think of this, but:
you're not as alone as it may seem....! But I was wondering, if you will be
able to live in 1 place (Holland probably) after all this, because you're such
a metropolitan. How do you see this?
And secondly; isn't it sometimes tough to stay happy to people you have to stay
with for a few days (when you're really tired after a long, hot journey)?
Because I can imagine this... Alright, lots of luck mate! And keep it up, I'm
still very amazed by your clever idea of travelling and finding sponsors.....
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.23 AM - 6/10 2002
Hi Ramon
Yep, Margaret said it well. You can carry money and not spend it. They have a
loop-hole in the law, and you can use it. In any case, if the likes of Margaret
are keen to invite you over (and Bret and Joan too, I hope!), then they should
allow you to go.
You are marketing the countries you visit through their citizens' hospitality
and friendliness. That can only be good for tourism in any country.
So, go for it. Obviously don't be naughty (Ramon? Naughty? No way, it's
impossible...), and try to get some TV coverage before you go. That way, your
presence and intentions will be known by the time you get there. Oh, and try to
go to Alaska. (Hint to Alaskans --> invite Ramon!) That should be very
interesting. A tad cold, perhaps, but interesting too. Imagine flying from
village to village.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis area
Sent: 5.10 AM - 6/10 2002
Interesting conversation you had with ex-pat Mark. Ex-pats tend to be negative,
I found when I spent significant periods of time in Mexico and Japan. But
remember the book I recommend to you, WALK ACROSS AMERICA? It's from the '70s
but I would recommend that you take a look at it or other stories about all
kinds of people who have walked, biked, canoed, etc., cross-country here. It
may be illegal to hitchhike in the traditional way in a lot of places, but that
doesn't stop you from going to university campuses and posting notices on ride
boards . . . or getting radio talk show gigs to get the word out so as to get
brigades of people who will give you rides for the asking . . . or hanging out
at farmer's markets asking people how to get to point B without paying. People
will probably give you bus passes, etc., once they learn who you are and what
you're up to. About traveling without a budget, just get a credit card somehow
and carry it in your pocket along with your $25. Doesn't mean you have to use
it -- but you can show anyone who asks that you have the means to get yourself
out of trouble if need be. They may want to be sure you won't sleep under a
bridge or something. The point is: don't be so negative, Mark! Ramon
specializes in finding goodness and finding his way around carefully. He's
already famous because of his AP article back in April, so even if he gets in
trouble, he must have plenty of people who would come and vouch for him. I do
wonder how you would get a visa to get in the country without money! But your
ingenuity should pay off. About post-9/11 "fear," some have it, some
don't. Choose who you hang with as carefully as always. Consider yourself an
ambassador of peace and trust, as your website seems to indicate that you are.
I'll bet you'll meet some really special people once you get here, but
certainly, things will be different that you may have expected and you might
have to put a lot more thought into some aspects of what you're doing than in
other European countries. I will say, though, that Australia sounds like
shangri-la in more ways than one, especially in the areas of trust and
hospitality! Look for the good and find it here as everywhere else! That's your
job after all.
Name: Malcolm Hill
City, Country: Mission Beach, Australia
Sent: 2.45 PM - 6/9 2002
Ramon. Thanks for staying with us.
I hope you get the chance to come back to stay another night with us so I can
take you fishing again as the old outboard motor is on and running fine now,
also the fishing has been very good with us catching some nice Barramundi.
Name: julie
City, Country: Perth Australia
Sent: 2.08 AM - 6/9 2002
Ramon,best of luck and good wishes foryour travels. YOu must be learning heaps
how us Aussies live!!
Has anyone invited you to PErth in Western Australia yet?
Take care
Julie
Name: niamh
City, Country: Ireland
Sent: 11.16 AM - 6/7 2002
Hi Ramon, it's such a small world i was just looking at your website and as it
turns out i was on Magnetic Island at the same time, for the full moon party
isnt that strange, i was staying at Maggies on the beach front, they wouldn't
let us go to the beach party at cocunuts unless you were staying there, i am
now in Sydney and heading for Bangkok on Sunday pity we didn't meet up you
could have bought me a pint or 10.....
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.21 AM - 6/7 2002
Hi Ramon
Your idea has taken off, it seems. You are an inspiration to others all over
the world. Like Donatella, for instance.
Donatella, I love your idea. That is brilliant, really it is. The only snag is
that I respect Ramon, and copying his idea would be too simple. I'd need a new
idea. Although, immitation is the sincerest form of flattery...
Sala kahle
Brian
Name: donatella
City, Country: milano, italy
Sent: 1.20 PM - 6/6 2002
hello brian, why not to create a "let-me-fly-for-a-night" to get the
united kingdom? ;)
ciao, donatella
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.00 AM - 6/6 2002
Hi Sylvia
Good to see you again. It's ben a while. I do like your suggestion about
Raine's party. The only problem is that you can drive there in a few hours,
it's an overnight flight for me. Anyone got a spare ticket...?
:-)
Sala kahle
Brian
Name: Sylvia (ex host)
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 8.15 PM - 6/5 2002
Hi there Raine
If Ramon can't make it to your party could the rest of us please come and
represent Ramon???????
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.03 AM - 6/4 2002
Hi Dawn and Malcolm (host from a few days ago)
Please don't feel too bad that Ramon doesn't like pumpkin, it's all my fault. I
served it to him when he was at my old place last year, and we jointly
discovered that there is something that Ramon does not eat. Cooked pumpkin!
So, it's really my fault. I'm sure your cooking is great. Actually, I love
roast pumpkin ;-)
And Dawn, even if Ramon does not eat everything, he truly does appreciate your
efforts. He is a very grateful person.
Ramon, you keep on travelling, dude, and go carefully on those rolling shoes.
Sala kahle
Brian
Name: dbk Tom
City, Country: NZ
Sent: 10.33 PM - 6/3 2002
laptop,
it's the old plug and pray storie Ramon.
good luck with it
Name: Jo Ann
City, Country: The Woodlands, Texas
Sent: 2.17 PM - 6/3 2002
I too read the article about you in The Houston Chronicle, how exciting your
life must be now. Thanks to the internet, things like what you are doing are
possible. Make Texas a "must see" on your journeys!
Name: Cal Earley
City, Country: Houston,Tx.USA
Sent: 10.44 PM - 6/2 2002
I read your article in the Houston Chronicle today, and was very interested in
the the info provided. Hope all is going well with you, and good luck on your
adventure. This type of travel has always interested me,as I would like to have
done the same many years ago, as I am now 62 years old. GOOD LUCK FROM TEXAS
Name: Raine Thurston
City, Country: U.K
Sent: 9.45 PM - 6/2 2002
Hey Ramon
You stayed with Evan & Myself in Battersea, London. We have moved since and
were just letting you know. I have requested the pleasure of your company
again. Address supplied in the invites bit. The other thing is we are having a
party. You are invited to that too but alas....I think you will not make it. It
is going to be a monster too. The last one we had there were naked people in
the pool!!! Me included. I was very drunk.....fortunately, so was everyone
else. Anyway...if you can get here it is on 22nd June. We have about 200
invited so far. We live right in the middle of the woods so the scope for a
massive party is huge. The bouncy castle, trampoline and bucking bronco ride is
already booked. The pool will be at a great 300 degrees and the party will be
pumping. We hope you can make it.
Hope youre having a great time. Love Raine....Pea.
Name: Sharlini
City, Country: KT, Malaysia
Sent: 2.58 PM - 6/2 2002
Hey Ramon,
I wish I could lay claim to sending you those skate shoes, darn. Anyway, it
actually fits? What size are you? Whoever decided to send you those shoes was
brilliant! Or a total fool if it ever breaks. Be very gentle with it, will you?
No skating on rough, rocky surfaces.
Take care and keep safe, Ramon.
Sharlini
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 10.55 AM - 6/2 2002
Ramon,
It's great that companies are coming around to sponsor you. I'm sure they are
seeing that a small donation can add great profits to their products. I hope
through the coming weeks you put those skate shoes through a thorough workout
and give us your honest opinion. They aren't cheap, that's for sure. If you
haven't heard it from your mom YET! You be careful with those skates young man!
hahaha Keep on truckin'
Sala kahle
Bret
Name: Brianna and friends
City, Country: Cairns, Australia
Sent: 9.08 AM - 6/2 2002
Hey dude,
Cairns is not boring. Everyone had just gone back to work and school after
lunch when you arrived. You'll see when you return. It's a great place. How are
your skating shoes? If you grow out of them Bryony has first choice okay? Bye.
Name: dbk Tom
City, Country: NZ
Sent: 6.28 AM - 6/2 2002
Great shoes Ramon
Name: Roland
City, Country: Germany; Sindelfingen
Sent: 10.40 AM - 6/1 2002
Hallo Ramon, greetings from Germany. We hope you have always a god trip.
If you want to visite us, it is no problem. We live in south germany, near the
blackforest and not far from austria and swizzerland.
Have a good time!
Name: amélie poulain
City, Country: Paris
Sent: 9.04 AM - 6/1 2002
Hi ramon!!! i think ,what you are doing is great! i dream about you every
night. i would like a man like you... you're the best of the world for me. i
would like travelling all over the world too. my dream would be to see you. i
hope ,you will come back in france in order to see you. france is a very nice
country ,believe me... france is waiting you anymore. you're our hero!for ramon
hip hip hip...HOURA!!!
Name: Anne
City, Country: Cairns, Australia
Sent: 9.09 PM - 5/31 2002
Hope you got back to Townsville safely. The whole family really enjoyed your
visit. Hope you enjoyed the BBQ. See you on your return.
Name: moi
City, Country: france
Sent: 10.16 AM - 5/31 2002
I like you Ramon
Name: Paul Perkins
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 10.04 AM - 5/31 2002
You are one smart tim tam
Name: Edwina
City, Country: Germany
Sent: 8.54 PM - 5/30 2002
Great Idea what you do...
i want to travel round the world with a friend of mine, but we don´t have any
good idea how to finance it so far... got any extra idea you just couldn´t
realise cause you had so much else to do so far?
Well, good luck for the rest of your trip!
Name: Rosemary Robertson
City, Country: Tallong Park Australia
Sent: 1.06 PM - 5/29 2002
I guess some people may call you all sorts of names.....I CALL YOU A GENIUS. I
hope you are enjoying your travels and meeting lots of interesting people.If I
were you I would stay up north where the weather is great, my temp here is 0-12
but still beautiful.We have lots of wombats & other wildlife as its
country, and we live on 3 acres. Good luck with the rest of your travels Ramon,
if you would ever like to brace the cold, feel free to 'stay for a day'.
Regards Rosemary Robertson....See ya Mate !!!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.27 AM - 5/28 2002
Hi Ramon
You lucky bugger! Getting on a jetski! Hey, I've wanted to do that for years,
and still have not managed. Oh well, can't do everything hey!
Ramon, it's a pity that you could not stay a few days at your hosts in South
Africa like you are doing now. There is so much that you missed here. I'm sure
your hosts would have shown you other things, I certainly would have.
Oh well, I guess you'll just have to come back here! During or after your
project, it's your choice, but please come back here. You are welcome at my new
place when you are in Durbs.
At least from my side, the suggestions that I made of things to do are still
open for you.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Lene
City, Country: Hasselt, Belgium
Sent: 7.53 PM - 5/27 2002
Hi neighbour from the north ;)! First I want to compliment you for this great
site!!
Further, I just want to say that you make MY dream come true! I've been
dreaming for years to pack my backpack and to leave to meet the world :)!
Unfortunally I don't have the guts to leave because I'm only 19, a girl and
very broke! And I'm afraid that it's impossible to realise without all the
sponsors and help you get!
I just hope I will put enough courage out of your trip so I can try to catch up
with you one day..
Keep up the good work! I'm sure it's all worth it!
Groetjes Lene
Name: Cronan
City, Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 1.01 PM - 5/24 2002
Are Australians the most Hospitable people in the world???
Following your travels from Day One, I have been absolutely overwhelmed by the
level of generosity and friendliness that you have been shown by everyone that
you have met in Australia. More so than any country that you have visited and
especially my own country that used to be known for the friendliness of its
welcome, but of late has become a country of self interested, selfish and
greedy people.
I have travelled a little over the years but was unsure of undertaking a trip
to Australia, not any more, if your experiences are anything to go by I will
start planning my trip immediately.
God on ya Oz!! Keep it up.
Name: Julie
City, Country: Berlin, Germany
Sent: 11.11 AM - 5/24 2002
Hi Ramon! You lucky guy are on Magnetic! I have been there last year as well
after I was voted off a German game adaption like "Survivor".
Magnetic is a really chilling place - enjoy it! Have you been to the "open
air" cinema yet? *smile* If you ever return to Europe, you are heartly
welcome here in Berlin! :-) Kindest Regards
Julie
Name: Carol
City, Country: Co. Down, N. Ireland
Sent: 10.24 AM - 5/24 2002
Hi Again Ramon,
I'm just gobsmacked at the beautiful homes of Julie, Norm and Val in Townsville
and Magnetic Island. Sitting here in my home office looking out at the 5th
successive day of rain in what's supposed to be a Irish Summer I'm seriously
thinking of holidaying in that part of the world next year. You should be
sponsored by the Australian tourist Board Ramon, you are doing a very good job
of selling the place. Your recent hosts seem to be really nice and what a
wonderful lifestyle they appear to have.
Once again, if anyone in that neck of the woods ever fancies a house swap in
Ireland, you can see where we live by going to the daily reports for 10/11 July
2001.
Enjoy what looks like paradise Ramon.
Carol
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.32 AM - 5/24 2002
Hi Ramon
Hey man, I am so sorry to hear about your break-up with Irena. You two seemed
so close. But I think that you are right, about long distance relationships.
They don't always work, but hey, you gotta try.
I know it's a cliche, but remember this. If you love someone, let them go. If
they come back, they are yours forever. If they don't, then they were never
yours to start with.
I am hoping that this is true, because Belgium is far away from here...
But Ramon, on the brighter side, I really do like your daily quote at the top
of your home page. Those are really clever. I don't know where you get them
from, but I'm sure journalists have things like that stored away, just waiting
to be taken out and put to good use. If you are up to offers, I can send you
one or two that you can evaluate.
Keep well, and remember, life is what you make of it.
RAMON:
All inspiring quotes are welcome! Just send them in and I might add them to
the front page!
Name: Shawn
City, Country: Toronto, Canada
Sent: 7.46 PM - 5/23 2002
Sorry to hear about the break-up with Irena, but it sounds like it's for the
best. Keep your spirits up and your heart open!
Name: Carol Fitzpatrick
City, Country: co. Down, N. Ireland
Sent: 10.00 AM - 5/23 2002
Hi Ramon,
You may remember staying with us last July in Northern Ireland. I've been
dipping in and out of your website ever since. Never having been Down Under, I
must say I'm really impressed with How Australia is presented. Townsville looks
like a lovely place and Darren and his wife seem like a cool couple. Perhaps
your hosts should form a club as we are probably all fairly like minded
trusting individuals and set up a house swapping network. Anyone fancy Ireland?
Carol.
RAMON:
Well, Carol, you might try your luck at the HospitalityClub
or at Travelhoo
Name: Carlos García
City, Country: Puerto Montt, Chile
Sent: 3.56 AM - 5/21 2002
Dear Ramón:
I always wanted to do what you are doing now.
Have a nice stay everywhere you go. We, people on the Web will be your shadow.,
and many of these shadows will have a friendly arm to help you. I also have one
for you in this so far Southamerica.
Name: Jef
City, Country: Hasselt, Belgium
Sent: 9.16 PM - 5/20 2002
Great "job" Ramon! I wish I had the guts some 30 years ago (I'm 51
now)!
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 6.47 PM - 5/20 2002
lately it's been a little stand-still on this website, and perhaps it's useful
to ramon to get a bit reloaded. I've read that the new laptop is coming today
or tomorrow, and I'm happy for ramon; I think he deserves the friendly support
he received, mainly as a kind of "thank you" for the effort he's
making.
that's all.. I send you a greet, and also to all the others! :)
ciao, donatella
Name: Marcella
City, Country: Zwolle, The Netherlands
Sent: 2.29 PM - 5/19 2002
Hi Ramon!!
Try to get in contact through this way. Nice picutures man!! First time for me
to go through your whole website. It's enormous, but a great job!!
Take care and keep in touch!! Greetings, Marcella
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis area
Sent: 3.16 PM - 5/18 2002
Ramon, ever since I started reading your tales of travel, I've been thinking of
a book published in 1979 called "Walk Across America" by a man named
Peter Jenkins who did just that -- walked across the U.S. The book was a best
seller! Someday you might enjoy taking a look at it. I would mail it to you if
there were any way to know where you'd be in a couple of weeks!
Name: Colleen M.
City, Country: Phoenix, United States
Sent: 1.44 PM - 5/18 2002
Hi I guess your name is Ramon? I don't even know who you are. I guess your
going to Australia. That's cool keep your head up and keep whoever is paying:)
You look good. I just saw a picture of you. I'm 17, a junior in High School. Oh
I look real good too so it's all good:) email me back if you even can or if you
even get this colleeny@onewebsite.com. Bye:)
Name: Tommy
City, Country: Thailand
Sent: 2.10 AM - 5/18 2002
I am Tommy from Thailand. Sent you a mail but I guess there is something wrong
with my laptop so I am not sure you recieved it. Just want to say that you're
the coolest guy I've know in this many years. Don't pay attention to the
journalists and the newspapers.Most of them have only hands to write but don't
have any brain cells.Hope you're fine and succeed your adventures.
Name: jasper Knot
City, Country: MUTTABURRA, AUSTRALIA
Sent: 4.28 PM - 5/17 2002
ramon got ripped on fraser island, it's one of the greatest places in
australia. but NOT the resorts.and it is safe to walk in the rain forest, thats
the best place.....and ramon, accuracy mate..there are lots of places to buy
fuel and groceries on fraser.
Name: ace
City, Country: Mount Isa, Australia
Sent: 3.48 PM - 5/17 2002
Well Done Ramon...
wish i had thought of doing it (freeloading around the globe) instead of
working.
have fun...ace
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 9.32 AM - 5/17 2002
To whom it may concern,
The author of this celebrated site is not chicken hearted, idiocy goes global
on your kind of existence
only. Keep on the safe tracking Ramon.
Name: Darren Scott-Sommer
City, Country: Townsville, Australia
Sent: 3.23 AM - 5/17 2002
Ramon has just finnished his stay at my place with my wife and I where he's
been since monday night. We had a great time with him but we realised how
exhausted he was so we just let him hang around the house and catch up on some
sleep.... he seems to have a bit more energy now. He has been a little stressed
in the past week because he hasn't been able to get full access to his
web-site. He has a laptop coming any time now but he had a few problems getting
it. Anyway, he'll be back in full swing once it gets here and I'm sure his
reports will be back to normal. Thanks for visiting Ramon, and we'll see you
again when we stay at your house one day.
see Ya....
Darren
Name: Priscilla
City, Country: Dallas, Texas, USA
Sent: 12.47 AM - 5/17 2002
I have really enjoyed your journal. I'm reading it in chronogical order and I'm
up to June 17. I like the way you write about the people you stay with and the
things you do. The pictures you take are great. I also like your translations.
They're funny. I live in Dallas, Tx and work in the network control area of
Parkland Hospital. I'm sure you've heard of Parkland Hospital, where President
Kennedy died after he was
shot by Lee Harvey Oswald. I think you're a very adventurous young man to take
off on your own on a trip like this. I admire your courage. I guess we could
compare you to a modern day Lewis and Clark, exploring new frontiers in
hitchhiking. I'm taking heed of your gentle advice that brevity is appreciated
so won't run on. I wish you good luck in your travels and that all your
adventures be happy ones.
Name: Sharlini
City, Country: KT, Malaysia
Sent: 5.25 PM - 5/16 2002
Right you are, MJ! I know that if Ramon ever makes it here, I'll make sure I
stay offline for a couple of weeks to keep the bill down. =)
As for that guy Mick and the sponge statement. I do believe that was meant for
the "Anti SpongeBob SquarePants" site. The sight of that cartoon
character does look a bit sickening, if you ask me. *eg*
Oh! I read an interesting German proverb the other day: "The heaviest
baggage for a traveller is an empty purse".
Take care and safe travels, Ramon!
Sharlini
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 3.43 PM - 5/16 2002
Hello all, I also think it is up to the hosts to say, "Please only stay on
this long, here is what it will cost us to have you stay online, etc."
Remembering how every country or even state is with long distance charges,
internet charges, etc would be difficult to do...
Just my two cents...
:)
MJ
Name: Glenn Watson
City, Country: Noosa, Qld
Sent: 3.28 AM - 5/16 2002
We recently hosted Ramon (Apr 18 and then again by may parents on Apr 21) and
had a great time with him. ( even taught him how to fish and feed Dolphins by
hand) I was however a little dissapointed to find that he had left an internet
phone bill on my parents phone account of $30.00.
Ramon, you need to remember that not all calls are local and that if it is Long
Distance and not local that remaing connected all night (even when asleep) will
cost big dollars. I was a little dissapointed more because my parents are
retired and it was me who suggested that they help Ramon out for the night as
he was stuck for a place to stay and a meal. Ramon, never forget that it is
your hosts that are doing you the favour...not the other way around.
Continue to enjoy your journey and stay safe.
Regards, Glenn.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 4.03 PM - 5/15 2002
Hi Munk
Your response about the sponges was brilliant! It would be hard to beat that
chirp! Witty, accurate, clever, the works!
Ramon, you have a cool friend.
Sala kahle
Brian
Sent: 1.47 PM - 5/15 2002
Ramon, It's Journo Jim. I've been following your trails with interest, and was
very intrigued by your reaction to the Fortuyn assassination. I was in the
paper newsroom when I heard about it, and remember thinking at the time that it
would be interesting to hear what you had to say about it. Unfortunately, you
were and are on the other side of the world. To make matters worse, you then go
and lose your laptop, the one way you have to talk to us all. Glad you got
everything sorted out in the end, and I'm sure I join with evweryone in wishing
thanks to everyone who contributed to keeping you in business.
Now, if we could only spread that sort of energy around a bit more, we might
have less cases like Mr Fortuyn's tragic death.
Incidentally, I love Holland - it's a rich culture with a long tradition of
adopting other cutlures into its melting pot. Fortuyn's views do not represent
me or even those of the vast majority of Dutch people. nevertheless, killing
causes only more killing, as we have learnt to our cost in my native Northern
Ireland. I hope that the Dutch people will respond in the proper fashion to
this tragedy, and gather together in a show of compassion and dignity and
respect for all during the forthcoming election.
Name: Munk
Sent: 12.43 PM - 5/15 2002
Mick, no one told you not to eat sponges? Everybody knows they make you sick.
Name: Mick
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 9.28 AM - 5/15 2002
You're a sponge.... you make me sick
Name: Murray Clarke
City, Country: London, Ontario, Canada
Sent: 7.54 PM - 5/14 2002
Good day, eh? Ramon, I came across your site from my ISP WebSite
"http://www.broadband.rogers.com" or
"http://www.hispeed.rogers.com" you pick, they are the same.
Well I must say that reading some of your messageboard postings, you've be come
very popular in this small world of ours. When I was about your age I much did
the same, only across Canada though. I was very pleased to see that someone
else is doing it, but on a much larger scale.
<<<<< EXCELLENT JOB !!!!!! >>>>> To you and to
your guests keep smiling and let the sun shine upon your face. I wish that the
world would wake up someday; to learn as much as possible that you want
yourself to allow in, to help others see the light. No matter what thier
believes are, with that to say good luck on your journeys... Sorry I wasn't able
to help you, I'm finacially strapped too.
Your Sincerly;
Murray
Name: Steve Mosby
City, Country: Leeds, UK
Sent: 7.15 PM - 5/13 2002
Best of luck! Keep going!
Name: Therése Hammar
City, Country: Malmo/Sweden
Sent: 12.00 PM - 5/13 2002
I read about you in yesterdays newspaper here in Sweden. I think your idea is
wonderful and i hope you will have a joyful trip around the world. Good luck
too you. Sorry about you hade problem to find places in Sweden to stay
in...good luck.
Sent: 7.18 AM - 5/13 2002
(anonymous message deleted)
Name: Chris & Maz
City, Country: HAMILTON ISLAND
Sent: 2.25 AM - 5/13 2002
Good luck with the rest of the trip mate. Thanks for visiting us at Hamilton
Island.We hope that you enjoyed yourself as much as we enjoyed meeting you!!
All the guys & girls at the Island Bar & Bohemes say a big HELLO &
goodluck too.I don't know why some people refer to you as freeloader, from what
I saw over the past 3 days, everything was offered to you. You didn't ask. Like
I said before you left - you are welcome back at our place ANY TIME mate. Just
drop us a line. Take care Ramon, hope to see you again !!!!!!!
Name: Pit
City, Country: Wilhelmshaven, Germany
Sent: 1.15 PM - 5/11 2002
My opinion about you trying to get in the Australian Big Brother House: don't
go there. Your self-potrayal on the net is kind and sympathic, and you
shouldn't present yourself in such a bullshit of exhibitionism (physical and
psycological), voyeurism an commerce.
Name: Mischa
City, Country: Zwolle, the Netherlands
Sent: 11.05 PM - 5/10 2002
Hi Ramon!
Just a quick note from Zwolle. Everything is going as usual here. In case you
might wonder if you are missing something; you aren't. I really enjoy your
daily reports, but I am also looking forward to the day that you can tell us
about your adventures in person. I guess I won't be living in Zwolle by then
though, as at july 1st I will be moving to Nijmegen. Of course, I'm happy to
see you whenever you decide to take a break at our beautiful "hanzestad bij
de ijssel."
Cheers,
Mischa
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 10.53 PM - 5/10 2002
Ramon, I too think it was great of you to not give up on the guy. Most people
would've just let it be. It's always a tender moment when one is trying to help
another, whether one is treading too much into anothers pesonal pride.
Fortunately you didn't give up and neither did he. What a great reward it must
of been to see his face with excitement. Hopefully he will take another step
and learn how to swim to help himself explore even more of what's out there.
Here's to you you Ramon. []! (big hug). Happy trails.
Sala kahle
Bret
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 3.02 PM - 5/10 2002
Ramon, well done on getting that guy to go into the sea. Who knows, he may have
suffered a loss or injury in the sea and had a phobia. You would have cured
him! That's a wonderful way to use human power. We all have this power, and so
few of us use it in this sort of way.
Well done, Ramon. I hope he remembers you.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Matthew
City, Country: Adelaide, Australia
Sent: 12.06 PM - 5/10 2002
Mate you are a Bloody Riper. Your an insperation to allo of us. I hope you get
in the big bro house.
Name: Dbk Tom
City, Country: N.Z
Sent: 6.53 AM - 5/10 2002
I've just been reading your latest report.
I'was quite impressed what you did for this pommy guy.
It must have been amazing.
Thanks for that Ramon,you made my day.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.13 AM - 5/8 2002
Hi there, Adam (Ramon's host on 27 April)
It seems that you and I have the same idea about domestic life. Clean only when
you should, cook the basics (remember, Ramon reported that I am a lousy cook,
and it's true!), and bung all leftovers in the freezer! Mate, I know how it is!
At least you served Ramon something that is universally acceptable, I didn't...
:-( Although Ramon's diplomatic approach was, well, interesting.
It's such an eye-opener to see honest reports about how people live. Often,
when you go to visit someone, they clean up and make everything nice, and cook
up a great meal. It's cool to know that there are others out there like me. We
invite people over and they must see exactly how we are. Adam, good on ya!
Sala kahle
Brian
PS. Ramon, I read your reply to my earlier posting. Yes, I understand and
accept your comments. Thanks.
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 11.05 PM - 5/7 2002
Yes Joerg....sometimes even on this messageboard.
Name: Joerg Habermann
City, Country: Orlando-Florida, USA
Sent: 9.49 PM - 5/7 2002
Dearest Ramon,
You are my only true hero, man. You are not like other freeloaders, NO, you are
cadging the whole damn world. And you make the people loving and sponsoring you
for that. See, idiocy really goes global!!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.33 AM - 5/7 2002
Hi all
Ramon, I can understand how the Dutch people must feel about the assasination
in Netherlands. No matter what a person thinks, it is wrong to kill him. That
is the fundemental behind freedom of speech.
Having said that, I can also understand the situation, although I know nothing
of Dutch politics. You see, I live in South Africa. We have merciless killings
every day. Some victims are high profile figures, others are police, others are
just ordinary citizens, rich and poor alike. Just this weekend, a 38 year old
policeman was shot dead about 7km from my place.
I'm not sure how much of this you picked up while here in SA, but this is the
norm. The sad part is that there is no single cause. You can't blame poverty.
This weekend I stayed in a traditional Zulu village without electricity or
running water. These people are poor, but are happy and respectful.
Ramon, criminal-minded lunatics live all over the world. There is always
someone wanting to kill another. It is our job to smother these idiots, and let
peace and respect shine though.
The fact is that, even in SA, it is only a few percent of the population that
behaves like this, most of us are decent people.
I'm sure that Netherlands has an even lower percentage of the population like
this. My undersanding of your country is that you are polite and respectful,
and always allow the other person freedom of thought and speech. Certainly, you
showed me that when you were here.
I empathise with the Dutch people, as this is a tragedy in any country, and
more so in Netherlands. But your country will survive. I'm sure of that.
Sala kahle
Brian
RAMON:
Thanks Brian, for your rationalisation. However I think you can not compare
the situation in South Africa with any other countries. I don't want to compare
the situation in the Netherlands with other countries either. We must
understand the differences in cultures, even if we speak about Africa, America,
Europe or Australia. However we all have MacDonald's, Coca Cola and MTV, there
are independent differences in every country.
In the Netherlands you can't just buy a gun, guns are prohibited. Dutch don't
have to defend ourselves with guns, therefor we have the police. Since the
start of the Dutch democracy, most Dutch political leaders travel without
bodyguards, often using public transport.
It is for the very first time in our long-going democracy of this small country
called The Netherlands that a politician is assasinated in broad daylight.
And that is why it strikes me this hard. Because it has never happened before
and it is just so unreal for The Netherlands.
Name: jane
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 3.37 AM - 5/7 2002
Strange, this is not true Australian standard for u to wait so long for a new
laptop. Usually we would have one right on your 'footpath' immediatley.
Come all the big guys out there, help Ramon to get his Laptop a bit quicker
................Channel 9 where are u ??????
Name: RAMON
Sent: 3.35 AM - 5/7 2002
FOR PEOPLE OUTSIDE THE NETHERLANDS IT MIGHT NOT BE EASY TO UNDERSTAND WHAT A
BIG THING THIS LATEST EVENT IN THE NETHERLANDS MEANS TO ME.
IT IS THE END OF A FREEDOM OF SPEECH. I FEEL SORROWS AND AM IN DISBELIEF THAT
SOMETHING LIKE THIS COULD HAPPEN IN MY MUCH BELOVED COUNTRY.
[ PHOTOS ]
Name: Martin
City, Country: Roden, Holland
Sent: 3.16 AM - 5/7 2002
It's a black day for my country.
I agree with Ramon, my vote is for somebody else.. but this a big shock for our
country (and Europe)
Where to go from here?
Keep traveling save Ramon!
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 12.22 AM - 5/7 2002
I learn now from your current position display that in australia is deep
morning.. so have a nice day (here is 1:30 am.. it's REALLY time to go
sleeping!).
bye :) dona
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 12.12 AM - 5/7 2002
hello ramon, I came back home now from my boyfriend' and while driving I
listened to the radio about what happened in your country.. I don't know much
about it yet, but anyway it's really serious and unfair, though Fortuyn's ideas
are (in my opinion) disagreeable.
why europe seems to be moving towards the "right wing"? hasn't the
past taught enough? ..I know, this is another story.. but I was also thinkin'
about general elections in france yesterday.. and also here in italy we've got
a centre-right government with a chief that makes laws "custom-made"
for his (and others businessmen) properties.. let's it go..
ciao, donatella
Name: Mischa
City, Country: Zwolle, The Netherlands
Sent: 11.43 PM - 5/6 2002
Hi Ramon! How is the new laptop coming along? Holland is in state of shock at
the moment; it appears that the elections are going to be postphoned (just for
your information) And oh, it still rains over here...
Could we visit you? Please?
Name: RAMON STOPPELENBURG
City, Country: CURRENTLY IN AUSTRALIA
Sent: 7.08 PM - 5/6 2002
LAST NIGHT AFTER PUBLISHING THE LATEST REPORT ON THIS WEBSITE I GOT SHOCKED
WHEN I HEARD THE NEWS THAT A DUTCH RIGHT-WING POLITICIAN BY THE NAME OF PIM
FORTUYN IS SHOT DOWN.
JUST 5 MINUTES BEFORE I LOGGED OFF THE WEB AFTER LISTENING TO LIVE RADIO FROM
THE NETHERLANDS THROUGH THE INTERNET WHERE MISTER FORTUYN HAD A TWO HOUR TALK.
SHOWING THE HUMAN BEHIND HIM.
THE MOMENT I WALKED TO THE BED, THAT MAN GOT SHOT. AND HOWEVER HIS IDEAS AND
POLICIES IN THE UPCOMING ELECTIONS IN THE NETHERLANDS WOULD NEVER GET MY VOTE,
I KNOW IT IS W R O N G TO KILL BECAUSE OF SOME DISAGREEMENTS.
SOMETHING LIKE THIS HAS NEVER EVER HAPPENED IN THE NETHERLANDS.
CNN.COM: "Dutch rightist Fortuyn shot
dead"
Name: Henri W.
City, Country: London, Ont., Canada
Sent: 3.08 PM - 5/6 2002
To Brian from Durban SA: Thanks very much for your explanations. Very
interesting. 11 official languages..wow. Keep on trucking Ramon.
Name: Lars Vinther Schmidt
City, Country: Copenhagen, Denmark
Sent: 11.17 AM - 5/6 2002
Hi Ramon!
Seems you're still going strong, eh? Glad to see that. Lucky you...that's an
amazing collection of pictures you've got by now...wonderfull !!!
Keep cool, best wishes,
Lars.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.42 AM - 5/6 2002
Hi all
An interesting collection of postings, (Ronald MacDonald???). To Henry from
Ontario, sala kahle means stay well, and hamba kahle means go well. Those are
the meanings of the expressions, and also the word-for-word translations. The
language is Zulu, one of the 11 official languages in SA, and the biggest home
language in SA (I think).
The majority of people in SA speak Zulu, Xhosa (similar to Zulu), Afrikaans,
and English. Afrikaans was formed from English, Dutch (it's main ingredient),
French, German, Portuguese, and others.
I can't speak much Zulu, I know a few words. If you want, I can tell you what I
onow, but not on Ramon's website. That's not the purpose.
Ramon, I hope that your new laptop is on its way, and that you have some means
of retrieving at least some of your records from the hard disk.
Keep on travelling, Ramon, the laptop thing is one of those things that is sent
to test us. I'm sure that you will forge ahead regardless.
Sala kahle everyone
Brian
Name: paula
City, Country: berlin, germany
Sent: 5.37 AM - 5/6 2002
I just noticed, you look like Ronald MacDonald.
RAMON:
Fortunately I was just in time in getting a hair cut last weekend. My
current hosts Merv and Trish say I now look like Woody Harrelson with very very
short hair... Hmmpfff!
Name: Henri W.
City, Country: London, Ont. Canada
Sent: 3.34 AM - 5/6 2002
Hi Joan,
I truly like your stile! What insight...what comon sense...more than anything
else, my comments were mainly meant as a compliment to you. Yes, Ramon is quite
a guy and utterly unique. I am looking forward to his arrival in "the
great white North"...someday, and will hopefully have the oportunity to
meet him and give him a tour of the awesome "Niagara Falls". Did you
hear that Ramon..? By tomorrow you should have enough $ to buy a laptop. good
luck. Regards to you Joan. H.W.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.26 AM - 5/5 2002
Hi Henri W.
I would agree with you that Ramon has probably met some self-centered
"Americans", and mouthy Americans, and has also formed opinions from
TV. I have done the same. There are without a doubt obnoxious folks, but they
are everywhere. (He just loves CNN - NOT! :-) )
This is fine, we all naturally form opinions based on experiences we have and
based on the news media and coverage we read and see as well. We have to absorb
info, filter info, and make our own opinions.
I have grown very fond of Ramon as a person and a man, and enjoy his travels
and honest commentary very much. I don't always agree with his impressions of
Amercians, but what a boring world if we all agreed on everything. Life is
complex. Don't want this to get into a major issue/discussion though. :-) It
was just an observation of my readings. He is obviously a great guy from my
impression in following his trip for a year now.
I am glad he likes pizza, since I don't cook, I'll be calling Pizza Hut if he
ever makes it to my house. :-) I am also a master at frozen microwave meals,
hehehe. On the other hand, I make a 'mean' tuna casserole! And I do believe he
likes tuna! Also, he'll need a couple of days at my place at least, for me to
show him all the places I want to go.
I believe when Ramon begins his LMSFAD travels in the USA he will have all
kinds of experiences. It's a big country, lots of diversity. Probably some good
experiences, probably some bad. But he'll hopefully have a blast. And there are
many folks anxious to see him here.
Ramon, you are getting close to being able to order that Dell laptop now - the
donations are coming in. Way to go!!
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Henri W.
City, Country: London, Ont. Canada
Sent: 6.05 PM - 5/4 2002
To Joan from the USA: I enjoyed your post from 4/30/02. Obviously Ramon hasn't
met any normal, open-minded, down-to-earth, tolerant etc. etc.
"USA-American" such as yourself or his opinion of
"Americans" would differ significantly. He may have met a few
"mouthy" tourist from the USA on a bus or whatever..but that is, needless
to say, not sufficient exposure to stereotype an entire nation. Without
actually knowing Ramon, it's difficult to speculate as to what he really thinks
of Americans...his comments were most likely made in jest...or
funny-sarcastic....and let's not forget he is young and likely somewhat
naive....in that he may not realize what he says on his site may be taken more
seriously than what it was meant to be. I doubt very much that he dislikes a
particular "people" for no apparent reason....I dobt that he would be
doing what he is doing if he were that way inclined. Do you agree, Joan? Well,
Ramon, yes? no? H.W.
Name: Henri W.
City, Country: London, Ont. Canada
Sent: 5.44 PM - 5/4 2002
Brian from Durban , South Africa I have a question for you: What does "Hamba
Kahle" and "Sala Kahle" mean...and in what language? (Africaans
perhaps?). By the way I enjoy reading your posts. You appear to be one of
Ramon's biggest fans and are on a "virtual trip" alongside with him.
Good luck to you. H.W.
Name: Parvin
City, Country: Berlin,Germany
Sent: 2.16 PM - 5/4 2002
Hi Ramon,
I read about your history in a magazine called "stern", keep on
moving, you live the dream of many peoples.Good luck Parvin
Name: Chris
City, Country: Hilversum, The Netherlands
Sent: 8.43 AM - 5/4 2002
Hoi Ramon,
I heard about your travels before, but right now I'm digging through your site
and I'm stunned. Still going strong after 1 year. Neat! It's really beautiful
and both brave what you're doing, respect. I visited different people in Denmark
and Sweden who I met on the internet a few years ago during my holidays, but
this goes a huge step further. Have fun during your travels and good luck.
Chris.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.57 AM - 5/4 2002
Hi Ramon,
Sorry to hear about the demise of the laptop. What an unfortunate thing. Too
bad travelers insurance did not cover this. Oh well. I have sent you a
donation. Get a Dell Dude! :-)
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Geoff
City, Country: Daytona Beach, Florida, USA
Sent: 7.16 PM - 5/3 2002
Ramon,
Sorry about the laptop. I sent a donation to you via PayPay. Hope you get
enough $$$$$$$$$$$
Keep up your trek.
Name: Lupe
City, Country: Rosario, Argentina
Sent: 7.12 PM - 5/3 2002
Sorry Ramon, but I cannot help you with your lap-top, you see, things here in
Argentina are a bit complicated and our money has been kept form us in the
banks..Did you know anything about this??? We are waiting for you anyway...
Beautiful things to see here, eh!!!
Name: Gabriel
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 9.56 AM - 5/3 2002
It will be interested to see if the Board of Supporters helps Ramon out with a
small donation for a new laptop too. Haven't seen their names yet on the front
page, hehe.
Name: Sylvia (past host)
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 11.58 PM - 5/2 2002
Hi Ramon
MANY BELATED CONGRATULATIONS ON ONE YEAR OF ADVENTURES!
In a couple of weeks time it will have been ten months since you stayed here
with us! Where has the time gone?
I have been away and have missed my daily dose of your fascinating website! I
will now begin to catch up on what I have been missing and hope that everything
is going well for you.
Lots of love to you Ramon, to your Mum and Dad and the lovely Irena, Keep
Safe!!
Lots of love
Sylvia and Family xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Name: Birgit
City, Country: Champaign, Illinois, USA
Sent: 7.55 PM - 5/2 2002
Sorry to hear that you don't much care for the people in the US. I just moved
here from Germany in 1997, and I sometimes get upset the same way you do about
the USA, their self-centered attitude, and their opinions of the rest of the
world. I have listened to conversations like you have on that tour bus, and I
do agree that the US needs to learn more about the rest of the world.
I understand where you are coming from, but I am doing my best here to make all
my new friends, neighbors, and relatives understand that there is a beautiful
world out there that they need to know about. You are lucky enough to get to
see some wonderful places, and meet great people personally.
I work at a very large University here in Champaign, and if you would ever get
to meet the people here, you would (hopefully) revise your opinion about the
US, and actually realize what a wonderful place this is, with so many great and
friendly people.
Good luck, I did submit an invitation, and I hope I will get to meet you
sometime in the future.
Name: Bob
City, Country: Naples, FL USA
Sent: 6.28 PM - 5/2 2002
So glad to hear Great Keppel Island is still offering camping. I camped there
back in 1981. What a fantastic time!! I will never forget those beautiful
sunsets. The sun setting behind those coastal mountains, warm water lapping at
my feet and cold beer in hand.
Name: Marieke
City, Country: Den Haag
Sent: 5.33 PM - 5/2 2002
Yeah Man, congratulations. After a year, my jealousy has sort of eased and now
I can say I am enjoying your stories.
KIDDING!! I am still jealous:o)
Sorry that you are celebrating your 1-year aniversary with a broken laptop:o(
Name: Gerben
Sent: 1.54 PM - 5/2 2002
Congrats Mones, One year. Who would have thought? We miss you! We're gonna have
a few beers on your expense, if you don't mind...
p.s. on account of the backuppers: thanx for the pat Bret
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
Sent: 9.32 AM - 5/2 2002
Ramon,
It has always been a CULTURE for celebration upon completing a year. I look at
it differently, its not how far or fast you go but following the path conveying
that positive message is a priority. Anyway, all the very best in your
undertakings. Nothing is good, beautiful or truthful than FREEDOM.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 7.05 AM - 5/2 2002
I'm back! I forgot to say something.
Ramon, who cares if they call you a freeloader? Way back in England a few
centuries ago, a famous man once wrote "What's in a name? That which we
call a rose, by any other name would smell as sweet." That was William
Shakespeare, in Romeo and Juliet (Act II, Scene 2, lines 43 and 44, the
"balcony scene", to be precise).
They can call you what they like, we know who you are, and we know that you are
to be admired. It takes great courage to do this, and you are a role model to
us all.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.57 AM - 5/2 2002
Hi all
Here I am! Yep, they've all said it Ramon, but I'll say it anyway. Well done,
dude! You have achieved a huge amount in one year, and you can be incredibly
proud of this. We salute you! My appologies for not getting on yesterday, circumstances
just did not allow...
Sorry to hear about your laptop. Hey, all those PC guys and dolls out there in
Queensland, come on, offer to repair Ramon's laptop, and protect his reports.
You'll get free coverage on this incredible website! Ramon, how about trying to
get a CD writer, and then backing up each week's reports and posting the CD's
home. Come on, postal authorities, you can sponsor that!
Just a thought, use it, don't use it.
Munk, you can have another beer for me as well, pleeeeeze! Thanks man!
sala kahle
Brian
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 10.33 PM - 5/1 2002
Ramon
Thanks for sticking it out for the year and teaching us all about the world we
live in. I think MJ summed it all up how I feel. Thanks MJ! And to Joan who put
the icing on the cake. Here's to you Joan[]. Now where is that Brian character.
It's just not complete without him. Oh! and Munk? could you go back out and
drink another one for Ramon for me? I work at nights so it's kind of hard to
get out. haha
Let's not forget the BACKUP Crew! Give yourself a generous pat on the back.
(Joan we need a symbol for that one)
To as many years as you want to take this Ramon. CHEERS! Take care as always.
Happy Trails.
Sala kahle
Bret
Name: Daria
City, Country: Pisa Italy
Sent: 9.04 PM - 5/1 2002
Hi Ramon
I would be into your eyes to see all the place you have been.. I envy you very
much !Good luck for every thing !
bye Daria
Name: Renee
City, Country: Germany
Sent: 9.49 AM - 5/1 2002
hi Ramon,
took me exactly a year to find out about your project. Just finished reading an
artice about you in the german magazine Stern, on May 1st 2002, mayday in
europe.
couldnt wait to log on to your website and been reading it now for the last
hour or so, very fascinating.
From now on i will include the site in my daily reading.
good luck for your further travels!!!
Name: Munk
Sent: 9.11 AM - 5/1 2002
Happy one year anniversary, Ramon. We drank one for you yesterdaynight/this
morning. And totally missed the last train back home.
Name: Peter Deveraux
City, Country: Hervey Bay, Australia
Sent: 8.28 AM - 5/1 2002
Hi Ramon, today I placed all three of your reports about Hervey Bay in a time
capsule that will be opened in about 25 years. Let's hope "You Are
Wronge" Resort has fallen into the ocean by then...LOL... Sorry about the
flat tire... Keep smiling... Peter
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 7.05 AM - 5/1 2002
Ramon,
I want to also congratulate you on the one year anniversary of your project,
travels, adventures, etc. It's been a great experience for me and thousands of
other readers all around the world. Very addictive and very educational. I am
bummed when I don't receive an email update that there is a new report online,
hahaha.
I think you have incredible energy and patience and stamina to do what you do,
being a "stranger in a strange land", being a guest at your
hosts/hostesses homes, and then staying up late to write reports, not only for
your site, but to answer emails, and write reports for your local newspapers.
Indeed, a very hard job. And your pictures, always fabulous, are so great,
especially since you accompany all with explanations.
I know it will be some time before you get to the States, and once here, it
could take a year or more to travel around. I look forward to it, and trust you
will get to big cities, little cities, remote places, the
"heartlands" (center of the country), farms, rich places, poor
places, diverse places, etc. etc. It will be fun to read your reports, and
probably educational for all - US citizens as well as the rest of your readers.
I know from reading all your reports and following your travels this whole time
that you are a very honest man, and I do appreciate that very much.
I think your committment to this project is excellent, and I am glad you are
still going! Again, congratulations on 1 year anniversary of
"freeloading"! Hehehe! You're doing a great ambassador job.
Best reagrds to you and all,
Joan
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver, Colorado USA
Sent: 3.09 AM - 5/1 2002
Congratulations on your one year, RS!!!
I first read about you in wired.com last year and have been following ever
since. Following your travels has been extremely pleasureable. I have learned
more from you about the world than I ever could have in a book, or from the
news (aside from traveling myself). In the process, I've learned about myself
as well. I hope others have had this same experience. I respect how you have
always maintained your sense of self and how you have not changed your opinions
to those that might be easier for others to hear. Thank you for making your
journey public and thanks for everything else.
:)
MJ
Name: Dixie Amerongen
City, Country: London, Ontario, Canada
Sent: 1.57 AM - 5/1 2002
Dag Ramon
I heard about your adventures from a co-worker today and then read the article
about you in our local paper. What a fantastic adventure. I have travelled to
Europe 4 times but that is nothing compared to your travels. The last time I
was in Nederlands, I met someone who was travelling around the world but he had
money coming from home to support him. To depend on other people like you're
doing has to involve a lot of trust on your part and I'm sure you're learning
that there are a lot of good people in the world despite some of the stupid
things that have been happening in the world. If you're ever in Ontario,
Canada, would love to meet you for a boreltje. My co-worker has already invited
you to stay with him so I won't extend an invitation but would still love to
meet you.
Stay safe
Dixie
Name: Sandra & Alex
City, Country: Tannum Sands, Australia
Sent: 1.30 AM - 5/1 2002
Hi Ramon,
hope the party at Great Keppel was all you wanted it to be, would have loved to
be there.
It was our pleasure to host you and you are a great ambassador for your
generation and your country,
All the best Sandra & Alex
Name: J&J Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Holland
Sent: 11.50 PM - 4/30 2002
Hi Ramon,
Congratulations with this first(?) year. We are very proud that you made it
sofar. Thanks to all hosts, visiters and sponsors. In fact you made this site a
succes and made the dream of Ramon came true.
Be carefull and xxx
Dad and Mum
Name: Wendy Jervis and Colin Reynolds
City, Country: Sheffield
Sent: 11.35 PM - 4/30 2002
Congratulations on your first year Ramon, we both wish you continued success.
How time has flown since you stayed a couple of nights with us!
XXX
Name: Jeanine
City, Country: Grahamstown, South Africa
Sent: 10.44 PM - 4/30 2002
Hi Ramon,
Congratulations on a great achievement, not only for you personally but by
uniting so many people from all over the world who share in your experiences
through your website.
I think that all your hosts would agree that you have touched each and
everyone's heart in a special way. Brian, Sylvia and Peter you agree not?
Keep up the good work and we are looking forward in sharing the next year with
you!
Take care and well done :-)
Name: Acadia
City, Country: USA
Sent: 10.09 PM - 4/30 2002
I do believe that Ramon has been to the US. If my memory serves me he did not
have good things to say about where he was staying then, somewhere in the west?
Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Ramon's opinions do not differ that much from many eurpoeans I have been
fortunate enough to know. He lets his bias show. Any why not? This is his site
after all. I do have to say that I think we, as a people, are very
self-centered, but not quite the brainless dolts portrayed in his log.
Ramon may come to the US, then maybe not. We shall see what opportunities
arise. If and when he does will his opinion of the citizens here change? Who
knows? Hopefully it will become a bit more broad, at the very least.
Name: Guy Leger
City, Country: St-Anicet (Montreal) Québec
Sent: 7.43 PM - 4/30 2002
Hi Ramon, it's always a pleasure to surf on your website. Thank you very much
to let us travel with you! You are an example for all young people. Hope to see
you in Montreal. French Canadian are so welcoming, friendly! When will you be
in Quebec?
let the good time roll...
Guy
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 7.32 PM - 4/30 2002
hello ramon, hope you can read this wishing message. this has been your first
year around the world, and I'd like to congratulate for your resolution. your
trip becomes more and more interesting, and also this messageboard increases. I
think you've already hit the mark (and such a mark!), you can be proud of what
you've done. in this moment I'm in a hurry and I drop these lines in advance
because tomorrow I won't use the pc. also a greet to all the supporters of this
board, the "old" and the new ones.
my best wishes - ciao! donatella
Name: Dave Askren
City, Country: Houston, TX USA
Sent: 2.20 PM - 4/30 2002
Ramon... Happy Koninginnedag! ;-)
Name: Michelle
City, Country: Central Coast, NSW Australia
Sent: 1.34 PM - 4/30 2002
Hoi Ramon, I've had an absolute ball following your travels on your website and
must say you're an inspiraton to all have-been and wanna-be travellers alike.
Would have loved to have met you when you were in Erina, but I unfortunately I
let that chance go by...
I am an Aussie girl of Dutch herritage and have visited family and friends in
the Netherlands on many occasions. But what I miss most about living in Oz is
meeting up with other Dutch people and the typical Dutch "gezelligheid"
or hospitality. I know they're around, but they're so hard to find 'cos they
assimilate so well!!
I'd really like to get into contact with other cloggers whom live on or close
to the Central Coast of New South Wales. I'm trying to organise a "borreltjes
avond" (or "drinks night" for those non Dutch speakers) and am
searching for ways to get expressions of interest from Dutchies in the area.
I have placed an ad in the classifieds of the www.myseafm.com website as a way
for them to contact me. I am hoping that this message to you may be a way of
reaching some of those people whom may be interested in getting in touch with
other like minded people on the Central Coast. I hope you don't mind me using
your website to get the message across, and naturally, if this night gets off
the ground, we'd love to have a guest appearance from you! But I guess that
would mean back-tracking hey!!!
In the mean time, I look forward to your next adventures.
Stay cool,
Michelle.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 12.29 PM - 4/30 2002
Hi all
Without wanting to take sides, I must defend Ramon. It is quite normal for ones
opinions on any matter to be based on what that person knows about that matter
at the time.
Ramon has travelled more extensively than most of his loyal supporters, and
through this he has met more people than most of his supporters (myself
included). It is only fair that he has the right to comment on what he has
seen.
Through my limited travels, I have also met some people who are a negative
reflection on a particular country, city, or region (or even race, religion,
etc). I have also formed conclusions on these places, cultures, etc based on
what I have seen in the people that I have met.
And, I have often been proven wrong!
Perhaps the only Americans that Ramon has met have been in some way strange.
Perhaps he has not met any Americans who are like Joan and Bret. Hopefully he
will meet such people, including Joan and Bret specifically.
After that, the facts available to him will be more balanced, more complete,
and more representative of the USA. If Ramon still speaks negatively about
America, then we can criticise.
However, having met Ramon personally, I have full faith that he will be
absolutely fair in whatever he says, obviously based on the information
available to him at the time.
But then, this is just my opinion, and perhaps I am wrong. No-one is perfect.
Ramon, keep strong, and keep on bringing us that wonderful journalism that you
have so far. May your second year in this immense project be even better than
your first year. I will support you until the end!
Kind regards, and hamba kahle
Brian
Name: ant lau
City, Country: hong kong
Sent: 11.49 AM - 4/30 2002
Valerie(s. california): i noticed what Ramon said about US travellers too. but
i don't think he feel ill
about americans. perhaps(just perhaps)it reflects people's resentment to
domination of world affairs by
the US gov't. some wellcome it,others resent it.
Name: ant lau
City, Country: hong kong
Sent: 9.54 AM - 4/30 2002
Joan(USA): i love Ramon's travelogues. i've been
following them since he planned his project. i don't
mean to blame him or say harsh things about him.i think everyones got depressed
moments now and then. Ramon seems to be able to get over his quite easily.
Name: Valerie
City, Country: Southern California
Sent: 7.03 AM - 4/30 2002
Well, your story has reached me here in Southern California! I read about you
in the news paper today. Your story is such an amazing one, and I am extremely
jealous I must say... I am so inspired by your courage and I commend you on
your determination to get to the White House. (I honestly think that you'll
make it there!)
I am very sorry to read that you have such a poor vision of the U.S. but
hopefully when you arrive here the people that you stay with will show you the
true American spirit.
I hope that you will make it to California, we have an insanely beautiful
coastline! I would certainly love to see your take on California's beauty. My
prayers will be with you for more safe travels, and good luck!!!
---Val---
Name: Valerie
Sent: 6.41 AM - 4/30 2002
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 6.40 AM - 4/30 2002
ant.lau,
I would agree with you that perhaps Ramon was a bit insensitive to the folks
visiting the resort, and was unduly "stressed" that there was not a
party atmosphere while he was there. Had I been him (which I am not of course)
I think I would have enjoyed a night to veg out quietly on this island
paradise. Quiet dinner (though unfortunately it seems the food was not so good)
and quiet night in my room.
As for previous post which was removed, where someone commented on Ramon's
observations of Americans on the bus, I will say that as a USA supporter of
Ramon and his travels, and a long time supporter, be forwarned, he is very
openly anti-"American", meaning anti-USA (not anti-North America or
Anti-South America. Just anti-USA.) He clearly thinks we are all self centered
and have no clue about the rest of the world. But that's, as his says
"just his opinion". Sometime in his travels he will probably get to
experience the USA and THEN he can make his opinions validated. Until then, he
will probably be anti-America (USA). :-) But.....we still love to follow his
travels.
Read his diaries, there is not one good thing about USA. It's all negative
whenever the topic arises. But, there are many of us still following and
supporting his project, because we know that someday he will be here. And he
may even get a stay at the White House. Who knows. I hope he gets that wish
personally, it would be awesome!
Regards, []
Joan
Name: ant.lau
City, Country: hong kong
Sent: 6.01 AM - 4/30 2002
i understand people love the company of those of their own age. nothing wrong
with that. but it would be kind of you if you hide your disgust towards old
folks and teenage students instead of openly express
it on your web site.
Name: Brian
City, Country: ?Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.09 AM - 4/29 2002
Hi Ramon
From an exhilirating flight and kart race to a depressed stay at a strange
resort. Wow! Oh well, life must have bad things, in order for us to apreciate
the good things!
As for the flying, I can tell you that there is a law regarding drinking and
flying. In SA, and I believe all over the world, there is a twelve hour
bottle-to-throttle rule:- no booze within twelve hours of taking command of an
aircraft. Since you were flying around midday, your pilot was probably clear.
But hey, if he feels sick, it is better to land. He did the responsible thing.
Sala kahle
Brian
Name: Kathleen and Richard Hijnen-White
City, Country: Calgary
Sent: 3.53 AM - 4/29 2002
Hey how goes it? Your travels remind me of when I was in Australia and had the
pleasure of spending 4 months in Noosa. Is Steve's backpackers still there?
Richard, Dylan and I have had a great winter skiing but are now sick of the
snow. Dylan has mastered the blue runs so that makes us really happy. Hope you
make it up to Darwin. I worked in Kakadu National Park for 6 months and you
would love it. We read your travel plans often and hope youstay safe and
healthy. Would love to see you in Calgary. Kathleen
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis area
Sent: 10.40 PM - 4/28 2002
Maybe April 25th wasn't your favorite day so far, but I just had to tell you
that your best photo so far is found on that day's collection: a bright blue
sunny sky plus water underneath. It's my new screen saver!
Name: Johanna
City, Country: Brisbane..Australia
Sent: 2.24 PM - 4/28 2002
Wow...what an amazing experience you are having...if you ever feel like you
have had enough...I will be only too happy to take over..hehe..I saw a story on
Brisbane Extra about you and your travels..its taken me a while to find the
site...i am bookmarking it and look forward to reading more about your
travels....wishing you a safe trip,full of memorable experiences and most
importantly ...may you make many friends...i am sure you have already.
Name: Liz
City, Country: Toowoomba, Aus
Sent: 1.24 PM - 4/28 2002
G'day Ramon,
Have been reading about your experiences around my home patch - South East
Queensland - great to see Aus from your eyes!
If you ever make it near Toowoomba, please feel free to stay with us!
Regards
Liz
Name: Linda Mace
City, Country: USA
Sent: 12.47 PM - 4/28 2002
Ramon, surely you must buy souvenirs??
Mind you - you are a man - so I guess that it is totally possible.
Have a great trip - hope you get to the White House.
RAMON:
Hi Linda, I have no money, so how can I buy souvenirs? Secondly, if I should
buy souvenirs as I travel around the world, I would need an extra house
whenever I get back? So I rather keep them where they are. Third: I am not a
tourist...
Name: Tan
City, Country: Dallas
Sent: 4.18 AM - 4/28 2002
Hi Ramon,
FYI, your Project reached Dallas, I just read about it on the Dallas Morning
News. I read your Barcelona reports, it's a great city to fall in love.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.26 AM - 4/28 2002
Hi All,
Ramon, I just spent my entire Saturday afternoon reading the last 5 reports,
from April 19 to April 24th. Absolutely fabulous reporting and pictures. Again
I commend you on your travels and sharing this fantastic idea and journey with
the world. I have learned so much about places I have never known about, and
probably won't visit in my lifetime. But your personal travels really bring a
special touch to learning about the places, versus just reading about them in a
book. And your hosts and the places you stay are really interesting. It's
wonderful they agree to share their personal life with you as well.
Again, thank you, thanks to your support team, and all your supporters. Also,
thanks for the hyperlinks you include in your daily reports.
Safe and happy travels, perhaps we'll meet if/when you get to the USA.
Joan
Name: Henri Wettstein
City, Country: London, Ontario, Canada
Sent: 6.01 PM - 4/27 2002
Hello Ramon,
What you are doing is absolutely brilliant....I left Switzerland over 30 years
ago to travel the world and ended up in Canada. As you stated somewhere on your
Website...travelling is the best education anyone could get..I agree. Is Canada
in your plans anytime soon? If so when? I would love to have you stay at my
house... and hear about your adventures in person.
Name: MARILYN
City, Country: NOOSA; AUSTRALIA
Sent: 2.13 PM - 4/27 2002
Hi RAMON, What a busy t ime you are having,do hope you will get invites from
the beautiful KIMBERLEY REGION OF AUSTRALIA, perhapes someone up Darwin way
could arrange it, come on Darwin see what you can do.
Name: Julie
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Sent: 4.53 PM - 4/26 2002
What a fantastic experience you must be having, and what an original idea! I
hope your travels are filled with fun, friendship and laughter. Onya maaaaaate
:)
Name: carlos
City, Country: brisbane, australia
Sent: 3.43 PM - 4/26 2002
You are a legend Ramon. Hope you travel for a long time.
Name: Peter Devereaux
City, Country: Hervey Bay, Australia
Sent: 11.48 AM - 4/26 2002
If you are a first time visitor to Ramon's site, let me help you... He has just
this evening left for Bundaberg on his way north to Cairns. He is a faaaabulous
house guest, a wonderful racenteur (storyteller), great company, clean, loves
dogs, and very easy to entertain and keep amused.... I would recommend you to
invite him to stay over at your place... He is welcome to stay here again if he
comes back this way and I look forward to reading his daily reports for a few years
yet... Good bye and thanks Ramon... Peter
Name: Linda en Elsje
City, Country: Nijmegen, Holland
Sent: 9.07 AM - 4/26 2002
We just want to tell you that we thinks it´s
fantastic how your project developed and we are
a bit jealous, sitting at our office desk, knowing
you are travelling the world, the things you see,
the people you meet... enjoy and very best wishes !!
Name: Sharlini
City, Country: K.T, Malaysia
Sent: 8.48 AM - 4/26 2002
Hi Ramon!
Have you heard kookaburras since you've been in Australia? Hmmm, reminds me of
that song we used to sing in school:
"Kookaburra sits on the old gum tree,
Merry, merry king of the Bush is he,
Laugh, kookaburra laugh,
Kookaburra, gay you life must be!"
=)
Safe travels, Ramon!
Sharlini
Name: Linda Bos
City, Country: Ouderkerk aan den IJssel
Sent: 8.13 PM - 4/25 2002
Hi Ramon,
I didn't visit your site for a while and heard that you where in Australia and
I would just like to say have a great time there and al the best.
greetings from the niece of your old neighbour tante adri
Name: Simon Troy
City, Country: Adelaide, South Australia
Sent: 11.46 AM - 4/25 2002
Hey Ramon! We saw you on TV the other night with the croc hunter. I was
wondering why didn't you get in there for a wrestle? Also, how long before you
get to South Australia? We have sent an invite to you, and we hope you can
visit us. Enjoy your time in Qld! S.T.W.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.00 AM - 4/24 2002
Hi Ramon
Yep, they're all quite right, that croc day was incredible! The man's a legend.
(You have competition!)
Thanks mate!
Name: Cynta
City, Country: Adelaide - Australia
Sent: 4.15 AM - 4/24 2002
Hi Ramon,
I just recently heard of you on the Aussie news...it's quite unique what you are
doing, I was just wondering where you get the money for the airfares?
RAMON:
Cynta, this website gets so many visitors every day, that companies love to
help me out with a little sponsoring. As you can see, Tunafish and
Book-A-Tour.com are responsible for the flight tickets to Australia lately.
Name: Martina
City, Country: Berlin - Germany
Sent: 11.49 PM - 4/23 2002
Hey Ramon!
I just heard the best thing ever! Is it true that you ask voluntary fees from
the media who interviews you and you forward the money to a school in South
Africa??? If so. Man! "Crikey!"
RAMON:
Martina, you got that one right. It doesn't always work, but some media do.
Like the German magazine STERN, they offered a 200 EURO fee for an interview
and that money goes straight to the elementary school in Mpande, South Africa
(see the reports about Mpande). It's just a little thing I can do and I know
the money will be well spend.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 11.00 PM - 4/23 2002
Ramon, that Steve Irwin report was awesome! Steve is great! I've heard him on
morning radio here, and he is exactly the same as on tv. I hope his success
runs long, because it couldn't happen to a better person.
As for your success Ramon, we don't want you to shoot up too quickly. Being a
celebrity opens allot of doors, but it tends to mess with ones personality.
Just remember who your dear friends are and always stay in touch. Of course
this sounds ridiculous, until that celebrity train starts gaining momentum.
Stay the course Ramon, and things will fall into place.
Donatella, glad to hear you safe. Always good to hear from you, as it's always
good to hear from the "Board of Supporters" :-) [] (thanks Joan for
that one) Take care all
Sala kahle
Bret
Name: Paul Perkins
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 6.17 PM - 4/23 2002
I got lost in thought it was unfamiliar territory, lucky for me I found your
site. Because I am back on track --- brilliant concept congratulations on your
innovative, inspiring, ingenuity.
Name: Paul Perkins
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 6.17 PM - 4/23 2002
I got lost in thought it was unfamiliar territory, lucky for me I found your
site. Because I am back on track --- brilliant concept congratulations on your
innovative, inspiring, ingenuity.
Name: Emma Williamson
City, Country: Geraldton, Australia
Sent: 2.27 PM - 4/23 2002
only just recently have i heard about your travels, and i think its just
amazing. all i have ever wanted to do its travel, and im sure just like yours
did my time will come. as i'm only 16 travelling isnt exactally easy to do.
some day i dream of reaching the far corners of the earth, especailly morroco.
I'm simply at a lost for words as to what to say, other that i think what your
doing is amazing and some day i hope to follow in your footsteps
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 12.28 PM - 4/23 2002
hello brian, I'm safe and sound! you're right.. lately the ladies we've all
been "absconding". of course, I kept on visiting this site almost
everyday and reading the messageboard, but I didn't write a line just
because..I hadn't anything to write about.. :)
what happened here (in milan) last thursday was really dreadful, of course
because the first thought came to new york-sept 11th. but this hasn't anything
to do with that, it's "only" an accident (not clear yet whether
malicious - that's what I personally think - or not). the PIRELLI building is
near the main train station, and I live more than 2 km far from there. here,
we've only heard a big noise, as if it were a thud (you don't think to a bomb
on first thought) or something like that. but they soon realised that the plane
was relly little and the pilot wasn't a terrorist at all.. and, in a certain
way, this is a solace. last saturday I went there for the first time to see the
"disaster".. you stay there without saying a word because it's
strange to think how the place has changed in less than 2 minutes..
fortunately, the offices weren't crowded ("only" 2 victims) and the
damage ain't so wide.
as it's said, let's try and have positive thoughts!
thanks for the message!
ciao, donatella
Name: Mark
City, Country: St Clair, Australia
Sent: 12.03 PM - 4/23 2002
Love the idea!! I should do this one day. Let me say, I will be back! Ver'
interesting life you have, so 1 day I might have to come and see u in person!!!
Name: Jonathan Tu
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Sent: 10.11 AM - 4/23 2002
I saw you on A current Affair this evening in the interview with the croc
hunter !~!
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 9.02 AM - 4/23 2002
Hi Brian
I am still here! I am looking forward to reading Ramon's report with Steve
Irwin as I think he is an amazing character. I have to go to work now, so will
look in later.
Cheers everyone xx
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.03 AM - 4/23 2002
Hi all
Airline food? Some people collect stamps, coins, medals, glasses, shells, and
lots of other interesting things. But pictures of airline food? Joan, I take it
you've seen this website. Does the food look appealing, or plastic, like all
other airline food?
This chap must have a lot of money to go flying about all over to take photos
of airline food. I'm really curious, what is interesting there?
Oh well, different strokes, I s'pose. We should respect each other. All the
best to this chap.
It's nice to see Joan and Sylvia back regularly again, you ladies have been
quiet recently. Hey, does anyone know what happened to Donatella? Last I heard,
there was a plane that crashed into a tall building in Milan, and I hope that
Donatella was not in there.
Cheers all, for now. Ramon, keep smiling, dude!
Sala kahle
Brian
Name: Marilyn
City, Country: Noosa... Qld
Sent: 1.40 AM - 4/23 2002
Dear Ramon , Congratulations on your great trip and may it have the rewards you
desire. AXES to the Sunshine Coast Daily , The word Freeloader means arriving
and staying without an invitation. Quiet different from what you are doing.
They have a poor knowledge,of what you are doing. Having hosted students
without financial gain from all over the world,the reward is in the opportunity
of being able the share a meal your home , town and country and to see the
appreciation on the receivers face. Ramon you have many more fun times ahead,
travel in safety and never forget the word" thankyou".
Name: James H Pemberton
City, Country: Belton, Texas USA
Sent: 10.49 PM - 4/22 2002
Ramon. You are welcome to visit me at my home in central Texas,for a day or
longer if you like. I am retired, have transportation, live alone on a small
acreage about 40 miles south east of Crawford (Texas White House).
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 9.06 PM - 4/21 2002
Hi Ramon
I can see that you are still having a great time down in Oz. I am looking
forward to reading your report with Steve Irwin, who I think is absolutely
brilliant. I have watched him many times on TV handling huge crocs which he
usually sits on and also poisonous snakes. The guy is so fearless and
entertaining.
I recently bought a new Mk 2 Renault Cliosport 172 and I was wondering if they
have them down in Oz! Has anyone who reads this website got one?
Bye for now
Love Sylvia & Family xxx
Name: Patrick
City, Country: Roma, Italy
Sent: 8.55 AM - 4/21 2002
Hallo Ramon,
I must say pretty inventive of you there. I have been travelling myself aswell
now the last 2 1/2 years. I am also from the Netherlands. But am doing it, the
hard way as they say, working and saving to go further.
I do not know how long I will be here, but at least untill the end of July
before moving on. I saw the list of invitations that you got, so if I was
you...well Italy is nice but some of the invitations I would rather go to. But
anyway, here is my invitation for the eternal city...
Good luck and keep up the good work.
Ciao
Patrick
Name: Christina
City, Country: Federal Way, USA
Sent: 6.57 PM - 4/20 2002
Hey Ramon! I just read about your project and I think it's pretty gutsy. But
keep on going, I wish I had the courage to do what you're doing. And by the
way, how did you get the name Ramon? It sounds more Latin or Spanish than
German. Okay that's all for now. Take care and be safe!
Name: Margaret
City, Country: Minneapolis area, USA
Sent: 5.56 PM - 4/20 2002
Ramon, visiting your website is my new favorite thing to do first when I sit down
to do anything at the computer. Your descriptions are fantastic! You give us a
window into many wonderful (or at least interesting) places and people and ways
of living. Your slightly wry sense of humor gives it a personal touch.
I wanted you to know that I enjoy the photos, and sometimes copy my favorite
ones (usually landscapes) onto my computer to use as screensavers, etc.!
I can't wait til you get to the USA. I feel sure you'll be invited to talk on
the late night talk shows, etc. If you get to Minnesota, maybe our governor
(Jesse Ventura) will invite you on his radio talk show.
Anyway, keep living the good life. I agree with many others that you are NOT a
freeloader; you are giving back plenty through your unique way of making a
living: sharing and reporting in a most creative way. I love your maps, website
links, and much more.
You don't say if you're a Christian or not, but so much of what you're doing
sounds a lot like the way Jesus encouraged many to live: simply, humbly,
unencumbered, gratefully.
Waiting for your arrival in Minnesota whenever you get here!
Name: Addie
City, Country: GEELONG, VIC. Australia
Sent: 12.57 PM - 4/20 2002
Formerly from Holland myself, I think this is the best way to see the world.
Save travelling, and hope to catch you, when you're down here. Saw an article
about you and your website in the Herald Sun .Good luck!!
Name: Phaedra
City, Country: Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Sent: 5.15 PM - 4/19 2002
Found out about you when I read a posting in the elevator at work! Funny how
that works! What you are doing just confirms my suspicions that most of the
people in the world are decent and honest. Best of luck in your travels and see
you when you make it to Canada!
Name: elma van leeuwen
City, Country: the netherlands
Sent: 3.39 PM - 4/18 2002
Hi Ramon,
This is so cool what you are doing.
I wish I would have thought about it but ye.
I read every report on your site and it is nice to read your stories. I also
went to australia and you see a lot things back at your pictures.
I almost get home sick.
well it is not my home bit it feels like it.
Keep on going and good luck
Name: John
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 12.21 PM - 4/18 2002
that is one smart man let me tell u i just read thru the whole site and he's
brilliant especially for his ages what a concept
Name: juraine
City, Country: Laem Chabang, Chonburi, Thailand
Sent: 7.23 AM - 4/18 2002
Hi! read about your adventure on the TRAVEL section of the local English daily.
what a neat idea!
hope you have a safe journey. tried to submit my invitation but something wrong
with the link. anyway, if you're ever in Thailand, you're invited to some
seafood here and a place for the night. i'm just about 2 hours from the
capital, Bangkok, and half an hour from the famous Thai beach resort, Pattaya.
CHEERS!!!
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 6.27 AM - 4/18 2002
Welcome back Brian.
I have a neat word document of "emoticons" if I could figure out a
way to add here.
And since we can't share email addys, how do we do that if anyone wants it?
Want to post it Ramon? I'll send to you, you decide. :-) []
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.13 AM - 4/18 2002
Jeez! I go away for one day training, and when I get back, there is this plethora
of information about sand mining on an Ozzie island! Thanks Joan, I'll check
out those sites a little later. And, we have an "emoticon" for a hug,
---> "[]". Cool, I've never seen that one before.
Munk, I thought your one-liner was brilliant! Really funny, I can understand
why you and Ramon get along so well.
Ramon, keep up the great journalism. There are lots more treasures out there,
just longing to get into your reports.
Sala kahle to each of you.
Brian
Name: Daniel Schmitt
City, Country: Narita, Japan
Sent: 3.26 AM - 4/18 2002
Ramon,
I think what you're doing is great. If you get the chance to come to Japan, I
live near the airport, so you are more than welcome to stay with me. I work at
a high school, so if you wanted to meet the kids, I think they'd love to hear
about what you're doing. The world cup will start soon, so I hope you can come.
Best of luck!
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 2.59 AM - 4/18 2002
Hey Bret, thanks for the virtual hug, always appreciated. :-) Here's one back
at ya []!
Joan
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 10.05 PM - 4/17 2002
Joan, give yourself a hug for me. Brian asks a question, and you respond with a
wealth of info. Thanks for the informative links. Now I know this doesn't
satisfy Brians inquisitive mind on how the sand is shipped put on Hawaiian
beaches, but given some time we'll find out through this board. By the way. To
all those who are new to this message board, I consider Joan high ranking in
the "Board of Supporters" at this site. Hugs again to you Joan.
Sala kahle
Bret
Name: Jeanine
City, Country: Grahamstown, South Africa
Sent: 9.59 PM - 4/17 2002
Good one Munk :-)
Name: Vanessa
City, Country: Oxford, UK
Sent: 9.32 PM - 4/17 2002
Met Etienne the other day and was totally blown away when he said he was your
brother! Why build data warehouses when you can be travelling the world!
Have been addicted to this site from the start. Hope you continue to have a
good time!
Lots of love Vanessa
Name: Ann
City, Country: Sacramento, California, USA
Sent: 6.20 PM - 4/17 2002
Wow, I thought I had an adventurous youth by working on cruise ships. However,
there are many places I've never seen, including Europe and Australia. If only
I'd thought of this back then!
Good for you for doing something like this when you are young. You'll remember
it for a lifetime. I'm glad you are getting the press too.
If you make it to my town, I'd be glad to put you up. You can learn about dull,
suburban California life. :-)
Name: mark johnston
City, Country: Dublin Ireland
Sent: 4.41 PM - 4/17 2002
what a great idea and fair play to you for having the balls to pull it off!
wishing you safe journey on your travells and hit me back and let me know who
puts out the cat in the white house!!!
slan leat..........Mark.
Name: Alli
City, Country: Devonport,Tasmania, Australia
Sent: 1.34 PM - 4/17 2002
My sister told me about a really cool guy who was travelling around the world
by thumb, & I should check out his web site. I think what you are doing is
very inspiring, I'm sorry I can't offer you a place to stay, do hope you manage
to get to tassie, It's one of the most beautiful places in the whole world. I
think so anyway, Good Luck and safe travels.
Name: Munk
Sent: 9.22 AM - 4/17 2002
No, you don't. It's full of silly comments by persons like me.
Name: Maria Perkins
City, Country: Japan
Sent: 3.56 AM - 4/17 2002
I want to read the message board.
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.06 AM - 4/17 2002
Brian and all,
You got me wondering about this "sand mining", so I found some web
sites for our continuing education as we travel the world with Ramon:
http://www.consrutile.com.au/
http://people.hws.edu/mitchell/oz/Stradbroke96.html
http://www.amcs.org.au/periodic/mbbnews/htm/1999_07Jul.htm
Very interesting stuff. Thanks again Ramon, and all your hosts and hostesses,
for allowing us to share in your travels.
Best regards,
Joan
Name: Maria
City, Country: Payson, Utah USA
Sent: 10.22 PM - 4/16 2002
You told Karran, from Victoria BC, to wait on her career and travel now. I
wholeheartedly agree!!! I am 37 years old, married, college educated, have
three children, own a business, etc., and even though I AM happy with my life
at this point, doing something like you are doing would be wonderful, but is simply
not an option for me now. Life's responsibilities cannot be ignored, but if you
can just put them off for a short time and create a wonderful experience for
yourself while you still have the freedom to do so, THEN DO IT!! You (and
Karran) are both still young...what will it hurt to spend some time seeing the
world now? I think it will serve to enrich all areas of your life in the
future. I think what you are doing is inspiring. Someday, I hope my husband and
I can go around the way you are right now. Best of luck to you, and stay safe!
Name: Nina
City, Country: Cairo, Egypt
Sent: 6.57 PM - 4/16 2002
Why try to put me off with all the rules and patronising language? Some of us
usually wanna say something nice..anyways i thinks its great that u get to
travel around the world on the invitaion of others, but if my sister handnt
read off a lettle column on u from B! [brit. magazine] i would never heard
about u or ur website, maybe ur could advertise more, since u know so much on
computers and stuff.
enjoy ur life.
Name: Coralie spencer
City, Country: England
Sent: 5.47 PM - 4/16 2002
Hi Ramon
just having a look to see how you are doing ...and WOW...very well, it seems
...Great to read of all these travels ...Keep enjoying it all ..My sister Rene,
has only weeks to live , and says to tell you "ENJOY" so I have
....each day is brilliant ! You are our eyes and our learning !
loads of hugs
Coralie
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.51 AM - 4/16 2002
Hi Ramon
I'm back again, having just read your report about the sand from the island's
mines. That story seems to be too far fetched to be true. It seems so strange,
so absurd, almost impossible.
What minerals do they mine there?
There are many tones of sand on just one beach, and I'm sure Hawaii has many
beaches, each requiring their tons of sand. And they fight a losing battle, as
the sea continuously washes away the sand.
It must be a strange sight indeed; ships offloading sand into a truck, which
then drives to the beach and just dumps it there. Or do the ships offload
directly from the sea with long pipes?
Hey man, this is facinating stuff. I'm very curious to know more about this. I
don't suppose they tell you this in the travel brochures for Hawaii.
Bret, you have an enquiring mind, what do you think?
Ramon, please ask a bit more about this, I'm sure that others are also keen to
know more.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Janet
City, Country: Westwood, USA
Sent: 10.17 PM - 4/15 2002
Howdy: Read about you in the Boston Sunday
Globe yesterday. It being April 15th
what do you do about filing your taxes?
Have fun.
RAMON:Jane, I don't have to fill them out. Someway they are probably
in my mailbox at home, but how can I fill them out?
Name: sherina
City, Country: kl, malaysia
Sent: 2.35 PM - 4/15 2002
just a note to david from brisbane, australia and anyone who would like to get
a journal going on their website while travelling - there's some fairly simple
scripts that you can install and whenever you're at any computer with an
internet connection can update your website with easily. i've seen many people
doing that already. blogger, anyone? ;-)
also, if you bring along a digital camera on your travels, don't forget the
driver installation disc, and perhaps a few blank cds. most places would allow
you to install your driver and hey also burn your pics onto your cd. if you're
lucky they might already have a memory card ready and you'd be more than set to
go.
best of luck! ;-)
Name: Etienne
City, Country: The Hague, Netherlands
Sent: 8.16 AM - 4/15 2002
Hi little bother,
I received your foto's from Stratbroke Island. Awesome ! I think I better plan
my holidays in one of those cottages with a sea-view ! (By the way , you should
wash your feet more often ,hahaha)
See Yah !
Name: Leonard Stephen Ondu Majakil
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 8.09 AM - 4/15 2002
Dear Sir Ramon Stoppelenburg,
Indeed, the best thing in life is FREE or FREEDOM. I would spend my last night
in any White House if it makes the HOME PLANET a safe peaceful EARTH. Yes, I
wish inviting you to your White House would send a very positive message. You
deserve the best Ramon. You know exactly that you are not a freeloader. I hope
we are in the same track but of different modes. Time and Space will tell. Bye
now.
A weak mind and a weak heart? Never.
LSOM.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 6.32 AM - 4/15 2002
Well Brian I have to thank you for that last post. Your too kind. But let's not
mislead everyone. We all know you have some of the best posts, with valued
information and insight.
Nancy if you happen to visit the "Board" again, I'd like to know what
California paper you read about Ramon. I need to get a copy.
Ramon, since your mailing list went who knows where, I went back to your main
page to see what I missed. You updated to a great picture of you sitting having
a drink. I really like that shot. Just says it like it is. "I'm a nice guy
traveling around the world on peoples generosity". It works for me. So,
who took the pic?
Hamba kahle
Bret
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.08 AM - 4/15 2002
Hi all
Well, Nancy must be new here. There is someone from California that posts
messages here. It is Bret. And not just any messages, but some of the most positive
and inspiring messages that we will find.
Nancy, visit Ramon's messageboard more often,and you will "meet" some
of the world's best people, Bret included. He and I, along with people all over
the world, are the unofficial (well, Ramon didn't say no...) Board of
Supporters for lms4ad.
Sala kahle
Brian
Name: melissa
City, Country: New zealand
Sent: 4.30 AM - 4/15 2002
What a cool idea
Name: Nancy
City, Country: California,
Sent: 1.08 AM - 4/15 2002
I have not seen many people write to you from sunny California. Sounds like a
great trip. I read about you today in the paper. Good luck to you.
Name: June
City, Country: Vancouver,Canada
Sent: 12.09 AM - 4/15 2002
What a great adventure!!! I just saw and article about you in our local paper
and hope you can visit Canada soon. Have fun!!!!
Name: mary
City, Country: Thunder Bay, Ont Canada
Sent: 8.43 PM - 4/13 2002
Just read about your travels in the local newspaper and had to check out your
website. Congratulations - you are doing things that everybody else just thinks
of doing. It takes guts - good for you - have fun!!
Name: Nick Koster
City, Country: Hatzic, British Columbia, Canada
Sent: 8.41 PM - 4/13 2002
As a fellow Dutchman, (albeit somewhat older) I had the traveling bug and
traveled to my native Holland (and the rest of Europe, Greece, italy, Spain)4
times in my younger days. I already e-mailed you our invitation to stay at our
place. Have a great, long, happy and healthy trip. Hope to see you sometime. I
haven't read through your entire website, yet, but will do so. It looks very
good so far.
Name: Terry
City, Country: Thunder Bay, Ontario, CANADA
Sent: 6.39 PM - 4/13 2002
That is the coolest idea i've ever heard of. Interested in a traveling partner?
Just wondering. Keep it up, i'm rootin for ya.
Name: Angel
City, Country: Mount Gambier S. Aust.
Sent: 12.28 PM - 4/13 2002
Your concept of free travelling is very clever.
I was wondering if you could help or anyone else?
I need to know of wheelchair accessable accommodation
in holland that is cheap.
Or is there any where I can turn to for a register of such accommodation?
Most places overseas are 'A' class and not affordable on a pension.
Name: AK
City, Country: Mülheim in Germany
Sent: 10.28 AM - 4/13 2002
This Page is very beautiful, my Historyteacher says to our class, that he have
seen you and he has speak with you, is this really right?
AK
Name: Andy
City, Country: Tilburg
Sent: 9.33 AM - 4/13 2002
It is a petty that I haven't seen this site before. I am trying to help Ramon
for some free airtravel tickets in Australia. If i would have know before I
could try to let him fly back in First Class on one of my survey trips. He
would like this. I am still working on those issues. I will keep you informed
here.
Name: Dale
City, Country: Victoria , Canada
Sent: 4.39 AM - 4/13 2002
Awesome! And I'm jealous!As a 50 year older I have that wanderlust again. Did
lots of travelling in my 20s,and after raising a family, i am ready to
go.Besides being unique, your site is informative and fun. Thanks alot. Hope
you make it to the West Coast of Canada!
Name: Jenna
City, Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 12.48 AM - 4/13 2002
Hi I saw your picture in the newspaper and i came to your site. Just wanna say
i think you're so cool because of everything you've accomplised!! GOOD LUCK!!!
Name: Plummer
City, Country: Miami, USA
Sent: 2.44 PM - 4/12 2002
My freshman classes (in high school) have been reading the newspaper in Miami
for current events and one of my students came across an article all about you.
I have shared this article with all of my freshman classes because it's such a
unique story. We'd like to thank you for providing us with such an interesting
article for our current events project. They all say "wazzaaa" and
they look forward to keeping up with your future adventures.
Thank you!
Ms. Plummer
Name: Annmarie
City, Country: Brisbane
Sent: 1.20 PM - 4/12 2002
Saw your story in the Quest newspaper and was truly inspired by your website.
It's a great way to see the world. Hope you enjoy the rest of your stay in
Australia.
Name: Robert
City, Country: San Salvatore Monf., Italy
Sent: 10.00 AM - 4/12 2002
My mother was born in Ingham, in north Queensland, and I never had been in
Australia. With your photographies and your daily report I can travel in places
that I wish to visit from much time. Thanks.
Name: Rachel
City, Country: Taipei, Taiwan
Sent: 8.11 AM - 4/12 2002
Although I can't let you stay my house, I really hope you can go to Taipei. You
can go to Taiwan, because people is very nice!
Name: Am
City, Country: Melbourne
Sent: 7.12 AM - 4/12 2002
Foxmill, don't be so harsh, Ramon is none of those things. However I do fear if
he visits the big brother house he will certainly find them there!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.11 AM - 4/12 2002
Hi all
Yep, Sylvia and Bret are right. Irena, tell us your thoughts about your man's
activities. Nothing personal, of course, just the general stuff. It would be
really interesting to hear what you think, since this must affect you in a way
that can't really be understood by others. Except Ramon's close friends, like
Munk and Gerben and the other Barcelona gang.
The Board of Supporters is waiting with antici...pAtion to hear from you!
Ramon, what do you think about this? You are obviously in contact with your
lovely lady, so she is fully aware of what's happening, and you know how she
feels. Are these suggestions an invasion of your privacy? Would you prefer if
the status quo was retained?
Hamba kahle, Ramon
Brian
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 11.04 PM - 4/11 2002
You're right Sylvia. It would be nice to hear from Irene. So, Irene if you do
have access to the net, and happen to scim over this message board. HI! Drop us
a line or two. Would love to hear how and what you're doing in the Army. Take
Care.
Sala Kahle
Bret
Name: Heather
City, Country: Arizona, USA
Sent: 9.16 PM - 4/11 2002
Dear Ramon,
I think what you have done is wonderful. I think you are showing the world not
to be so afraid and to keep on traveling and seeing the world. There are a lot
of awsome people out there and I hope you touch many.
You are welcome to stay in Arizona with my family.
Good Luck and God Bless
Name: mirjam
City, Country: holland
Sent: 8.42 PM - 4/11 2002
It was nice to see that because I showed my friend Irene an article about you
on planet news, that you stayed at her house in Brisbane :-)
good luck with your travels and if you need a last stop on your way back
............your welcome in Amersfoort
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 2.27 PM - 4/11 2002
Hi Ramon
I was wondering whether your lovely girlfriend Irena back in Holland might post
a message here sometime! Does she have access to the internet where she is at
the moment?
Regards
Sylvia
Name: Morgan
City, Country: Victoria, BC, Canada
Sent: 8.07 AM - 4/11 2002
Ramon....oh the things you can find on the internet! I find your experiences
amazing - not just because of the pure excitement of your travels and extent of
your experiences, but because of the human kindness that has made it possible.
It must feel great to have so much good cheer surround your trip. Good luck and
good travels in the future.
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 11.24 PM - 4/10 2002
Hey Sam from Wapello, do you have the link from the Des Moines register? I'm
originally from iowa.
:)
MJ
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 8.25 PM - 4/10 2002
hello ramon, reading your latest report I've had a sudden idea: instead of
those terrific (and not so educational) killing-pc games, why don't you
recommend the kids the old & beloved pac-man?
I know.. it could sound like prehistory...
ciao, donatella
Name: David
City, Country: Lancaster,PA USA
Sent: 10.53 PM - 4/9 2002
Read about u in the Lancaster Sunday News on 4/7/02. Reminded me of '79 when in
US Navy in Guam...met a couple of guys traveling 'around the world in 80 days'
via PanAm...provided them shelter in the barracks and treated them to dinner at
the island supper club where I worked part-time...very interesting! Best of luck
in your travels...I will be checking your progress!
Name: Lucia
City, Country: Grinnell, USA
Sent: 6.36 PM - 4/9 2002
Like Sam from Wapello, Iowa, USA, I saw you in the Des Moines Register last
weekend. Come to Iowa and stay with us on the farm!
Name: David
City, Country: Brisbane, Australia
Sent: 10.59 AM - 4/9 2002
You're my hero, dude!
The one goal (dream, if you like) that I've always had is to travel as much of
the world as I possibly can.
As I'm coming to the end of my schooling, my plans for travelling have come to
a head. I'm going to start out by packpacking around Europe.
Just the other day I was thinking if it would be possible for me to somehow
update my website for my friends and family back home while I'm abroad. I
thought about a laptop but scrapped the idea thinking that it was unworkable.
The next day I read the article about you.
I've copped a fair bit of crap from people for being so single minded about
wanting to travel...as if it isn't worth the effort. I'm definately going to do
it. You've also reinspired me, and I really look up to what you're doing.
Thanks so much man. =)
Name: Maria
City, Country: Munich, Germany
Sent: 8.32 AM - 4/9 2002
To foxmill: lack of fantasy an enthusiasm is not a great sign of cleverness.
Ramon doesn't force anyone to invite him or puts anyone in a compromising
situation.
So if you don't like what he's doing: do not invite him!
To Ramon: I think it is really courageous and inspiring what you're doing. I
just hope that the whole media-hype will allow you to meet REAL people in the
future. After all that's what makes your daily reports so unique and
interesting. :-)
Good Luck
Name: Karran
City, Country: Victoria BC, USA
Sent: 8.21 AM - 4/9 2002
I came across your picture and a small bit of information on the
GlobeandMail.com website. Then, I visited your website:
www.letmestayforaday.com
Wow, 14 different countries since May 1, 2001. While reading your website, I
grew feelings of desire for travel, interest in your project as well as curious
about your thoughts on where you are today in your life.
The last part of the above paragraph may seem somewhat confusing to you. Let me
clarify; when you look at your life to date, what do you think about and did
you see yourself being where you are today 5 year ago?
Do you travel alone? Do you become lonely? Do you ever go home? – Where do you
consider your home to be? I am the same age as you, and am therefore feel
somewhat compelled to compare your life to date with mine. I have been
pondering the idea of picking up and traveling for quite some time now. Once
finished with University I choose to become focused on my career in order to
create a base for myself. I do not regret this decision, but now find myself
anxious to explore the emotions and intelligence of the world.
RAMON:
My thoughts? Well, as my reports are written within a few hours, I can't really
write deep emotions. It will be something for my book I'd like to write later.
I think I am doing very good. I am meeting so many people, sharing so much
stories with them and I explore a world that is still unexplored in my mind.
Because how many people in our world trust other people to be their friend or
just a guest for a day? Most of us just live this urban life where the only
people you meet are your family, friends and colleagues. That's mostly it.
I just need to share with the world that there are so many people out there
that are so friendly and nice -you can hardly believe it!- and we can learn A
LOT from them. Honestly I feel I have learnt more than any university can teach
me and I love it.
As you can read on my site, I do travel alone. Just to find out how I can
handle myself in all kinds of situation, without a side help to talk to when
times is hard. And it's what people want. Lots of people online would love it
when I am in an uncontrollable situation, it's almost like on reality-tv.
But I am not a lonely person at all. Put me in room 492 on the 4th floor of a
city hotel for a week, then I get lonely. Not when I constantly meet people and
get inspired and share my things with them.
I had a break last Christmas, as you can read in my reports, when I met my
girlfriend Irena in Barcelona. From that point I spent two months at home,
relaxing and preparing for Australia. Home is where my heart is and I feel good
with that. It can be anywhere, I just need to be happy.
My vote for you: get out and go for that carreer later in life. The world is
big enough and honestly, it doesn't cost that much. Just a flight might be, but
when you are in another culture, another country and you have to adjust
yourself to all those differences that there might be, just feel it glow
inside. You'll love it!
Hope this clears things up for you!
Ramon.
Name: foxmill
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Sent: 2.16 AM - 4/9 2002
Bet you've learnt some new Aussie words like - bludger, scab, bot. Don't
believe that US $35 is all you spent. Don't you count it if someone else pays
for you! Bit misleading i feel
RAMON:
Bet you need to learn some other words too, like: hospitality and
friendlyness. I, me myself have not spent any more money than 35US$
during my travels, for the domainname of this website.
Next to that: all I officially ask is a share in some food and a place to
sleep. I am not asking more and people don't have to spend unnecessary money on
me ;-)
In return I DO write daily reports and publish photographs of my visits on my
website (which you probably haven't seen). So I kind of work my way
around the 'other way'. If you still see that as being a bludger, scab or bot,
there might be something wrong with your mentality.
Name: Kari
City, Country: Fort Wayne, IN
Sent: 12.18 AM - 4/9 2002
I saw an article about you that Mike Corder did from the Associated Press. This
is seems like a great idea. They used to talk about backpacking across Europe
back in the 60's. You just made it better. Hope you come to America. I also
hope you get to stay at the WHite House. Have fun... and be safe.
Name: kerry
City, Country: ontario, canada
Sent: 5.54 PM - 4/8 2002
Ramon!
You know how sometimes people have an idea that kinda makes you think,
"wow, I wish I'd thought of that first"... this is one of those
projects... good for you! safe travels!
Name: Alex
City, Country: Detroit, USA
Sent: 5.30 PM - 4/8 2002
Fantastic idea Ramon! I'm looking forward to following your adventures -
vicarious experience for myself ;) If you're ever in Motown, you're more than
welcome to come and stay. All the best!! - Cheers, Alex
Name: Dave Foki
City, Country: Brisbane, Australia
Sent: 5.23 PM - 4/8 2002
Gidday mate, bloody awesome idea you have there. Good on ya for having the
balls to go through with it. Im a kiwi(NZ'er) living here in Brisbane. Pissed
that I didn't get a chance to meet ya. Do you have many contacts in NZ to stay
with? Let me know if you dont. Anyway, good on ya mate and hope you have a
fantastic time.
Name: Marilyn
City, Country: Queensland Aust
Sent: 1.23 PM - 4/8 2002
I would like to congratulate you on coming to Aust and having the guts to push
through the slackness of the normal person who hasnt a adventuroous bone in
their body. Good on you mate!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.40 AM - 4/8 2002
Oops! Sorry, I forgot to put the details in that previous posting. What was
that about the monday morning mind...?
(A genuine mistake, by the way, and a sincere appology!)
Sent: 6.38 AM - 4/8 2002
Mmmmm, a nickname for Ramon...
Let's see, with all that Ramon is doing, including the competition with Nat.
Geo., I'll think about it. Gotta find something that expresses the spirit, the
power, the driving force that keeps Ramon going.
It's Monday morning after a toug weekend, so the mind is in neutral. more
later.
keep well, each of you out there.
Brian
Name: jann crawford
City, Country: tweed heads ----gold coast--- AUSTRALIA
Sent: 9.28 PM - 4/7 2002
Hi Ramon just heard you on the ABC radio from one traveller to another "Go
for it " enjoy our beautiful country and take home great memories. Jann
Name: Katie Stoner
City, Country: Fort Wayne, United States
Sent: 7.06 PM - 4/7 2002
Ramon... I just wanted to write and commend you on your adventurous and
wonderful attitude towards the world. It isnt everyday that we the people, see a
strong willed person going towards their goals and overseeing alot of the hate
and terrorism in our everyday life. You seem to have you mind set on what you
want to do with your life. I thing that you will go far in doing whatever it is
that you may decide to do with it. Again I commend you and congratulate you on
your adventures.
Name: HOWARD
City, Country: MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA. USA
Sent: 6.21 PM - 4/7 2002
CONGRATS ON YOUR CREATIVITY. A GREAT WEB SITE AND INTERESTING TOO
HOWARD
Name: Sam
City, Country: Wapello, USA
Sent: 6.13 PM - 4/7 2002
Just read the article about your journey in the Des Moines Register today.
Sounds like you have had a pretty interesting journey so far. Figured you might
be interested in coming to the heartland of the USA and see where food is
raised for export all over the world. It's a uniqe place, fairly new-compared
to places in Europe and Asia, and a friendly down home place. Kife here moves
at a slower pace than the cities but for the most part, people fall in love with
this place and make it home. Most of the people in Wapello and Iowa are either
employed directly to agriculture or are affiliated with it. The state can boast
of having more pigs than people. With the Mississippi river nearby, recreation
is plentiful especially if you enjoy the water. Boating, fishing, hunting, and
camping are predominate activities enjoyed by most in the vicinity. Life here
revolves around the community, local plays, festivities, and the school system.
Hope you plan to visit here,it will be an interesting place to come. Let me
know what other things you want to know about Wapello, Iowa or the midwest.
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 5.48 PM - 4/7 2002
hello, I'd like to thank bret (from USA) for his message. it's a pleasure to
see this site: you're right.. who cares about tv when you can follow somethin'
so "true"? as it's been said in a message, ramon's reports are, for a
stranga reason, more interesting and involving than some National Geographic's
articles.. perhaps because we're almost the same age (so ramon is a traveller
as we could be? that is, we "speak the same language"?), or maybe
because hosting him we can (hosts can..) really take part in it..who knows? via
the internet you can follow quite in real time; personally what made me curious
in the "lmsfad idea" is that you can directly (in plain words, as if
you were tellin' a friend about something) know the difficults & troubles
(the same that, after all, you find travelling in your real life!).
ciao, donatella
Name: Chet
City, Country: Ohio, USA
Sent: 5.41 PM - 4/7 2002
Just saw the Columbus, Ohio Dispatch article also. Sounds great! As a member of
the USA Boomerang Team, I've travelled many of the places you are
seeing...sometimes sponsored and sometimes not. However, seeing the world is
great and will stay with you your whole life.
DO get to New Zealand for sure and make sure to hit the Southern Island.
Unbelieveable sights and friendly people.
All the best,
Chet
Name: Chet
City, Country: Ohio, USA
Sent: 5.39 PM - 4/7 2002
Just saw the Columbus, Ohio Dispatch article also. Sounds great! As a member of
the USA Boomerang Team, I've travelled many of the places you are
seeing...sometimes sponsored and sometimes not. However, seeing the world is
great and will stay with you your whole life.
DO get to New Zealand for sure and make sure to hit the Southern Island. Unbelieveable
sights and friendly people.
All the best,
Chet
Name: Chet
City, Country: Ohio, USA
Sent: 5.39 PM - 4/7 2002
Just saw the Columbus, Ohio Dispatch article also. Sounds great! As a member of
the USA Boomerang Team, I've travelled many of the places you are
seeing...sometimes sponsored and sometimes not. However, seeing the world is
great and will stay with you your whole life.
DO get to New Zealand for sure and make sure to hit the Southern Island.
Unbelieveable sights and friendly people.
All the best,
Chet
Name: Alex
City, Country: Germany
Sent: 4.54 PM - 4/7 2002
Hi Ramon!
I wish I was you, and had the chance to see all the beauty of our planet!!!
Enjoy e'ry second of life...
Take care!!!
C-Ya Alex
Name: CRIPLIFE$set tripping
City, Country: Culver City ca usa
Sent: 3.56 PM - 4/7 2002
SHOOT THEM NIGGAS BITcHeS...COME tO la AND fuck WITH tHE dOWn ass ESES AND
bECOmE GEHETTO FABUOUS...YEAh GOT me AN uzi FOR YOU TO sPRAY THE 8 TRAY cripS
WITH yeahhhh...KEEP uP THE good WORK with THE hoES..peace
Name: dan gray
City, Country: columbus, ohio
Sent: 1.56 PM - 4/7 2002
Ramon,
I just saw a news article about you in the Columbus Dispatch Travel Section. It
was a large article about you. Just wanted to say congratulations on a
succesfull journey. God Bless.
Dan Gray
Name: MIND-EXPANDING SPECIES
City, Country: Muelheim an der Ruhr/Germany
Sent: 12.31 PM - 4/7 2002
You´re really a mind-expanding crazy guy. Enjoy Australia - drink a lot of
Fosters and I hope one day you will visit us in Germany.
We are a not professional but crazy free mind label:
http://www.mind-expanding-species.com
For people which travel around, celebrating partys, enjoying life - respecting
other people and nature and for people with such f. crazy ideas like Ramon
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 4.18 AM - 4/7 2002
I know I'm late in saying this, but welcome back Donatella. I'm glad you're
back to share Ramons world with us. It's always enjoyable. Who needs TV when we
have Ramon.
To mike from LA! Is that "CRIP" 4 Life what I think it is? If so,
please clue everyone else in on what a CRIP is. If they don't know already.
Ramon, I thought your nickname was "The Traveling Dutchman" I'll just
have to give this some thought. I'm sure with Brian,Donatella, Sylvia, and that
WackyBrit, we can come up with something. Now I'm sure Irene has a few good
ones to contribute..........Ok, maybe...................alright then, I guess
Brian,Donatella,Sylvia,WackyBrit and I will get started on that one. Let's keep
in clean girls and boys.
sala kahle
Bret
Name: mike
City, Country: los angeles ca usa
Sent: 12.26 AM - 4/7 2002
Man you rock....CRIP 4 Life
Name: Irma
City, Country: Heerhugowaard, the Netherlands
Sent: 10.09 PM - 4/6 2002
Hi Ramon,
I just read about your project in Panorama. What a great idea!!
Don't forget to go to New Zealand as well. It's such a beautiful country, with
very friendly people.
There's a lot of dutch immigrants in N-Z, just as in Australia, I guess. My
experience is that they are very hospitable.
I wish you a wonderful time.
Irma
I wish you a great time in Australia.
Name: Rene
City, Country: Hoorn, NH Netherlands
Sent: 6.07 PM - 4/6 2002
I wanna wish you a wonderful journey and hope you can meet a lot of people and
that they offer you a wonderful day when you stay with them.
I read about your trip on www.nu.nl
Have a great time
Name: Erlend Quast
Hometown: Rotterdam, Netherlands
City, Country: Rotterdam, the Netherlands
Sent: 12.25 PM - 4/6 2002
Good luck with the travelling, I read the article in the Panorama!
Your former highschool mate from the Emmaus College in Rotterdam,
Erlend Quast
Name: robert w
City, Country: houston tx usa
Sent: 8.28 PM - 4/5 2002
Ramon, thanks for the travels. You are more fun than the National Geographic
Magazine and a bit less expensive. I am looking forward to your USA state tour,
I would even throw a kid out for your visit. With Houston Texas size, the 4
invites might be enough to cover the city, but not in one day. Keep on typing.
RAMON:
Robert, thanks for that great compliment about the National Geographic
Magazine. My dad once had a subscription to it, but I only 'read' the
photographs, the stories were just a bit 'too' difficult/much/political for me
sometimes and I was already to old for the children's version... Thanks for
letting me know that you are enjoying my thing.
Name: Devlin
City, Country: Zwolle, Netherlands
Sent: 7.48 PM - 4/5 2002
Hey! I just read that you can stay 4 a day in the Big Brother house. All i can
say: DO IT! It can be a life time experience above the journey u r doing right
now!
Greetz from a fellow citizin
DEVLIN
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 7.09 PM - 4/5 2002
just a note (a joke) to brian: thanks for trusting on my memory! :)
it will take quite a long time to read all ramon's reports, but..I'll take a
glance (as usual, I must study meanwhile..).
I've read now the latest report: how nice and smart idea the huge backpackers
hostel!
thanks for publishing - donatella
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 3.14 PM - 4/5 2002
Hi Donatella
We all make typos occasionally, so it's fine. And I'm sure your memory is just
perfect!
I hope you are reading all the daily reports you missed out while your computer
was playing up. Ramon has met some interesting people recently.
sala kahle
Brian
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 11.55 AM - 4/5 2002
oops..sorry for the error in the previous message, brian (not bian).. without
using the laptop for some days, probably I forgot how to type...
donatella
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 11.50 AM - 4/5 2002
to bian (from south africa): hello! thanks for the message, it's very kind of
you.it's really good for me to see this website & messageboard again! I've
had problems with "netscape" for about 2 weeks.. and internet was so
boring without "lmsfad"..
ciao, donatella
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 5.58 AM - 4/5 2002
Hey, it's Donatella and Sylvia!
Welcome back, oh loyal ones. Good to see you again.
Brian
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland, UK
Sent: 12.32 AM - 4/5 2002
Hi Ramon
As I sit here catching up with your daily reports, I still find it hard to
believe that you were sitting here in my chair using my PC for a day last July!
If you remember, even the famous Red Arrows flew over to welcome you!
Fond memories!
Take care
Sylvia and Family xxx
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 10.16 PM - 4/4 2002
hello ramon, at last I can see your website again (no more problems with the
browser)!! : )
I' ve lost the latest reports (apart from those sent by the mailinglist), so
now I'm reading and reading..
ciao, donatella
Name: Jerry
City, Country: Dordrecht , Holland
Sent: 6.46 PM - 4/3 2002
Keep on rolling and show what the Dutch are made off.
Best off luck from a fellow country man.
Toi ,
Toi , Toi.
Name: Jacky Cao
City, Country: Brisbane Austrlia
Sent: 8.14 AM - 4/3 2002
I fink wat you're doin is pretti cool, i mean free loadin off all this ppl
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.04 AM - 4/3 2002
Book? Hell no! That's Ramon's job. Ramon is a far better writer than I will
ever be, just read his reports.
Ramon, I truly hope that your plan of writing a book about your experiences is
still alive. There must be thousands of people who would love to read it.
Especially the juicy bits that are not covered in your daily reports. There
must be some of those... ;-)
hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Mike Wallace
City, Country: Glasgow, Scotland, U.K.
Sent: 9.30 PM - 4/2 2002
Good on you! I thought I was doing well,i.e. 47 countries in 11 years while
still keeping a full time salaried job throughout but this beats anything I've
heard of yet! So keep up the good work, my only regret is I didn't think of it
first.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 11.29 AM - 4/2 2002
See what you started Brian. I had to find out the difference between Amaretto,
and Amarula, because I wasn't quite sure if they were the same thing, just
named differently. So here it is from the webtender website.
Amaretto is a liqueur with a distinct flavor of almonds, though it's often made
with apricot pits kernels. The original liqueur, Amaretto di Saronno, hails
from Saronno, Italy. Many distilleries produce their own amaretto.
Amarula Cream is a South African cream liqueur made from the fruit of the
Marula tree, also known as Sclerocarya birrea or "The Elephant Tree",
and cream.
The fruit is fermented and then distilled in copper pot-stills. The marula
liquor is then stored on small oak casks for two years before it is enriched
with pure marula extract and blended with fresh cream.
Amarula Cream is best served chilled, on the rocks or with crushed ice. It can
also be used in desserts and cocktails. An opened bottle should be stored in a
cool and dark place for no more than a year.
So what the heck is "apricot pit kernals" I'll leave this research up
to you Brian for your forthcoming book (haha)
Now, about that brown snake Ramon?? Tell us more!
Happy Trails.
Bret
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.46 AM - 4/2 2002
Hi all
Alittle bit of trivia...
That Amarula drink that Ramon was enjoying, it is something invented here in
South Africa.
The amarula is a fruit that looks much like an apricot, small round, and orange
in colour. The trees are a couple of meters tall, not too big, and grow mostly
in the northern and north-eastern parts of SA. Where Ramon went to the game reserve.
The fruits drop off the tree, as fruits tend to do, and start to rot on the
ground. It is very hot and humid in these areas, and that promotes the rotting,
and the fermentation, of the fruit. Much like what happens to grapes when the
make wine. Except that it is hotter.
Now, elephants, another indigenous species in SA, adore these fruits, and tend
to eat them in huge quantities. If they can't find them on the tree, they pick
them up off the ground.
Of course, if they are fermenting, then the elephants get drunk. Now THAT is a
sight to see! Imagine, five or six tonnes on meat falling all over! Best keep a
safe distance away.
It didn't take long for people to realise that the fruits, which are quite nice
to eat, can also be used for liquor. So, that they did, and now we have Amarula
spirit and Amarula cream, the latter being one of my favourite drinks. This,
when served in a wine glass filled with crushed ice, is called a white
elephant.
Cheers!
Keep well, each of you
Brian
RAMON:
Well er... Brian, when can we all expect your book? Haha!
Name: Glenn Watson
City, Country: Noosa, Queensland
Sent: 12.12 AM - 4/2 2002
Hi Ramon,
Welcome to Australia and have a very, very safe journey !
NOOSA HEADS must be included on your list of stays and we look forward to
welcoming you here very soon !
GW
Name: Bridget
City, Country: Adelaide
Sent: 9.05 PM - 4/1 2002
Just wanted to congratulate Anna and Anne of Fingal heads for giving you some
well deserved R & R, good on ya for showing the true Aussie spirit.
Enjoy the north Ramon
Name: Michael
City, Country: London, England
Sent: 11.56 AM - 4/1 2002
Hi mate, just wanted it was great reading about Port macquarie!! Its my home
town, but ive been away travelling for 2 years now, mainly based in London. Was
a bit homesick, but you have flooded me with some great memories. You really
captured some great spots. Well enjoy your travels!!!
cheers
Name: Ramon
City, Country: Brisbane, Australia at the moment
Sent: 7.17 AM - 4/1 2002
Bret from CA, USA, please contact me by email
Name: Milo
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 3.29 AM - 4/1 2002
Good on you mate for that approach on immigration/refugee policy. Please tell
as many Aussies as you can about it. Many of them just don't get it. Especially
up there in Queensland.
Cheers and best wishes!
Name: acadia
City, Country: Maine, USA
Sent: 2.22 PM - 3/31 2002
What a great spot Anne and Anna live in. I didn't realize that they lived right
ON the lagoon! They seem, by your reports, to be very nice people.
May you encounter more like them, and the others in Oz you have already met.
Name: Colman
City, Country: Sunderland, U.K.
Sent: 10.18 PM - 3/30 2002
Hi Ramon,
We all think you are so great for doing what you do. I wish I knew of your
adventures when you were in England so I could have invited you then. But it's
marvellous to read about your adventures and get travel tips. I'm planning on
visiting Australia this year because of you.
Cheers!
Colman
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 7.53 PM - 3/30 2002
Hi Ramon,
Just want to wish you a Happy Easter and I hope you will get loads of Easter
Eggs.
Thought I would let you know that it was announced a short while ago that Queen
Elizabeth, the Queen Mother died this afternoon, she was 101 so she had a good
innings.
Happy travels!
Love
Sylvia and Family xx
Name: Sharlini
City, Country: Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
Sent: 7.11 PM - 3/30 2002
*L* Very funny, Herman! =)
I'd like to wish Happy Easter to Ramon and all who observe this day.
Best wishes,
Sharlini
Name: Herman Winkler
City, Country: NY, usa
Sent: 4.02 AM - 3/30 2002
The rumours go that the comedy series "Everybody Loves Raymond" will
soon change its name into "Everybody Loves Ramon"...
Name: Miranda Stevens
City, Country: Austria
Sent: 1.21 PM - 3/29 2002
Hello Ramon.
I´m a dutch girl living in Austria. I have seen you on german television
yesterday. And today i thought i have to look in to your homepage. Australia is
great isn't it? I was there last year from 05.01.2001 till 14.03.2001. We
travelt from Cairns to Coffs Harbor, Coffs Harbor, Broken Hill, Port Augusta,
Melbourne to Sydney and than home again. I loved it, and some day i will go
back. Good Luck to you. Doei Miranda
Name: Robert Hatchett
City, Country: Vevay, Indiana, USA
Sent: 2.18 AM - 3/29 2002
Hey Ramon,
I am enjoying your daily e-mails and pics, very much.
I, especially, enjoyed your published conversation about immigration. You were
very sensitive to both sides of the issue. You are, also, to be commended for
your humane treatment of Thomas - I do not know if I would have been so
forgiving.
I had visited Newcastle and Sydney when I was in the U. S. Navy, in the early
seventies. We were not very well received. We were the Yankee warmongers, and
not much loved. Even after Sept. 11, 2001, I think that if an American were to
try your adventure, very few people, of the world, would be supportive or
sympathetic to him or her (if not hostile). But, for your effort and
initiative, you have my applause. I'm on your list of awaiting hosts, if you
choose to visit the States.
May your back-pack be light.
Bob
Name: Pete WackyBrit
City, Country: UK
Sent: 10.57 PM - 3/28 2002
Renee said: __I totally agree that a minority will always be unreasonably
jealous of those who do something well__
Whereas I, and probably most of you, are quite *reasonably* jealous ;-) Who
wouldn't want to do it?!
Name: Maarten
City, Country: Hollandia
Sent: 12.21 PM - 3/28 2002
Great trip Ramon, but if u're so popular, and you're welcome everywhere, where
are the chicks?? Chicks and nature are the ultimate combination :) Later
RAMON:
Hi Maarten, honestly I see chickens as part of nature and I don't want to
give chickens a higher profile than other animals, like bucks, monkeys and
elephants. ;-)
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 6.50 AM - 3/28 2002
Hi All,
Just catching up. I am glad things worked out with Thomas. He made a bad
mistake, bad moment as he said, writing what he did. Just was not thinking that
such comments could be taken seriously. I believe Thomas in his apologies, and
am glad Ramon has been in contact with him. If I were a college student (well I
was many moons ago) and made such a blunder on the internet (there was no
internet when I was in college! :-) ) I too would have learned a quick lesson
and would have been regretful and scared. I bet Thomas becomes a fan here - he
seems sincere, he just made a stupid remark. Good that Ramon took it seriously,
and good it is settled. (Andy on the other hand is a plonker! :-) )
Ramon, I am loving your travels, stories, and photos from Australia. Thanks!!!
Cheers all,
Joan
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.24 AM - 3/28 2002
Hi Ramon
Lets forget about nasty messages and earthquakes for a while.
On a lighter note, why do bats flying around outside the window remind you of
Irena? Not trying to be nasty, it's just a funny association of thoughts.
That stunning forest would make me think of my girlfriend, if I was lucky
enough to have one. Hey, it's beautiful, peaceful, and natural, like she would
be.
But, each to his own, I s'pose. :-)
Keep well, Ramon
Brian
Name: dbk Tom
City, Country: NZ
Sent: 6.03 AM - 3/28 2002
I think what Thomas should do is invite you over to NZ Ramon,and do some
promotional work for you here.
Enjoy it while you can Ramon
Name: thomas jackson
City, Country: auckland
Sent: 11.44 PM - 3/27 2002
hello all,
When I posted my offensive and threatening message I really did not realize
what I have done. It is true as Bret and Amanda have said that I got scared
because I was busted. But I also put myself in Ramons position and thought
about me receiving death threats and offensive emails. It really felt vey scary
and frightening. I would have also gone to the cops. I realized my fault after
this. I am not fooling around this time. I sincerely mean this . I do not
drink, smoke or do drugs. I regret having hampered ramons travel in Australia.
I regret having damaged the reputation of australians and kiwis as the most friendly
people. I am a good student who went astray for a few minutes. Please forgive
me all. I am glad that ramon has been so considerate and has forgiven me. I
love my parents and they too love as much. I really dont want them to feel hurt
by what I have done. I have not told them and my friends about what I have
done. Please excuse me from this. Yes, Michael I really enjoy visiting the
site.
cheers
-Thomas
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 10.30 PM - 3/27 2002
Ramon you are generous and forgiving. I'm not sure that I would of let
"Thomas" off so easy. I doubt he needs counseling, being he's a young
university student, and is apt to do stupid pranks. I'm sure we all have done
some pretty silly things in our lives, but "Thomas'" stupidity is an
all time high. I agree with Amanda, that the only reason "Thomas" is
sorry is because he got busted. How do we know he is really sorry, and not
putting on another "show". So, here's my proposal. Tell Thomas to
show his offensive post to his parents, and have them post a forgiveness letter
for all of us to read on this board. That would be humiliating enough to make
one think twice about malicious postings. I'm sure Ramon that you'll do what's
best. Happy Trails.
Bret
Name: Rhonda
City, Country: Gold Coast Australia
Sent: 10.20 PM - 3/27 2002
Hi Ramon,
Just wanted to say that it was my great pleasure to meet you a few nights ago.
You are the most interesting young man I have met in a long time. Thank you for
your sense of humour, for without that you may have been offended at being told
to "Go to your room!" Ha! I did not have the pleasure of having Ramon
stay in my home, I invited myself to the home he was staying in. I'm glad I did
because the Prawns were incredible! Thank you Mark and Del. To all those who
have invited him, you are in for one hell of a treat. He is someone special.
Thank you for your company Ramon. Stay well.
Name: chris
City, Country: münchen.germany
Sent: 7.02 PM - 3/27 2002
hello ramon
you are great!!!!!!!!
Name: Dave and Sue
City, Country: Langwarrin, Victoria
Sent: 11.08 AM - 3/27 2002
Hi Ramon (and all his followers!!)
First time I've been in this part of your site!
Sue and I are looking forward to meeting you when you venture to Victoria. We
invited you a few weeks ago after seeing your gig on ACA. Got to hand it to you
though. What a BRILLIANT idea!
I, along with 3-4 million people around the globe, are wishing we thought of
the concept first! Then actually achieving it is extra-ordinary. I now follow
your travels on a daily basis. The people and cultures your experiencing must
be mind blowing. (I'm sure there has been some "bad" times but I
suspect the good are outweighing the bad 100 times over.
As for the bozo's who have a go at you. Don't let them worry you mate! Don't
bother calling the cops in! Just publish their name and address on this forum.
I'm sure the culprit won't get a wink of sleep!!!!
Anyway we really hope you manage to make it to Langwarrin (At the start of the
Mornington Peninsula. Nice part of the world! (biased view of course)
Can't wait to meet you
Smile to excess!!
Dave & Sue
Name: Michael Offe
City, Country: Willunga, South Australia
Sent: 7.15 AM - 3/27 2002
Hi all,
It looks like Ramon is enjoying his travels in Australia (give or take a few
stupid messages here), but I am sure that there are enough nice things about
Australia to make up for that! :-)
I am looking forward to seeing Ramon in person when here gets to my place... I
first heard about him last May.
Just for interest - I was the guy who helped organise the Bridge Climb over
Sydney Harbour for Ramon. :-)
With regards to 'Thomas' and Brian's message below...
I fully agree that 'Thomas' was totally out of line, and should have thought
far more about what he did!
But if he is genuinely sorry for his actions and has really learnt his lesson
('Thomas' I am trusting that you have learnt a lot from this - and will refrain
from such actions in the future), may I suggest that Ramon's decision is for
the best.
This may sound silly, but... in my opinion a lot of the current counselling and
psychiatric help, often 'screws up' the person even more...
Especially if they aren't 'social misfits', I believe that the 'system' for
dealing the true 'social misfits' tends to turn the person who isn't yet a 'bad
case' in the wrong direction - since they are being treated as a true 'social
misfit'.
This is just my personal opinion on the matter (don't all take it personally
please), which I thought I would mention.
Ramon, enjoy you travels, 'Thomas' I hope you enjoy your future visits to this
site and learn from your mistakes, and all the best to all of you reading this,
and to those of you from other countries... I hope you enjoy your little
insight to our unique and wonderful country!
Yours sincerely,
Michael Offe,
South Australia.
Name: Renee
City, Country: currently Sunshine Coast/Brisbane, Australia
Sent: 6.53 AM - 3/27 2002
Hey Ramon & all,
Like most people, I'm sorry to hear you had to go through what you have
recently. I totally agree that a minority will always be unreasonably jealous
of those who do something well, but it is much to yours & others credit to
not give up your vision but instead deal with "hurdles" in a
reasonable and compassionate way.
As an addicted traveller myself, I think your resourcefulness is brilliant.
I've worked in the backpacker industry for years and absolutely love showing
off our brilliant country to foreigners. I've even backpacked my own country
several times, and although now living in the UK, I'm back in Australia for a
few months to do it again! And spend some time with family.
I've made numerous precious friendships on my travels -I've had many pleasant
times learning about the world from travellers, showing them the area &
offering a free bed over the last few years. I am now travelling myself and
enjoying their brilliant hospitality throughout the UK & Europe in return.
Yes, there are always risks involved trusting people, but it is a very small
percentage of those who aren't genuinely wonderful, friendly people. And by
being careful & aware, the risks are well worth the long-lasting
friendships or at the very least, some stimulating conversation & a lesson
about life from another perspective!
Anyway, I'm rambling on, but trying to say good on you, looking forward to
meeting you. And also hi to everyone else on here & thanks for your
messages, enjoying reading through them!
Thanks for your texts Ramon and looking forward to seeing you when you arrive
here soon!
Renee :)
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.25 AM - 3/27 2002
Hey, if nothing else, this will make facinating reading in your book...
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.24 AM - 3/27 2002
Hi Ramon
If Thomas Jackson's successive messages are anything to go by, it seems that
you have answered his appeal to be lenient. Ramon, I salute you for doing this.
It takes a real man to forgive such lunatic actions.
Having said that, and maybe I am horribly wrong here, I feel that this person
may well be "just" fooling around. But, as has been said by many
people, it is stupid, idiotic, and criminal.
Perhaps he was drunk or high or something when he did it. Whatever the case, he
needs psychiatric help. Yes, it is unfair on his uni, his family, and his
friends, but next time he might go further, and then what will these people
say?
Ramon, I know, and understand, that you are very busy, and that it is not in
your nature to interefere, but please consider a plea bargain situation, in
which he will do many hours of counselling, followed by years of comunity
service. If he does not accept this, then let the cops deal with it.
Maybe it will also set a precedent, and anyone else who might consider being so
incredibly stupid will think twice before acting.
Whatever happens, we are all right there with you, Ramon. We support your
actions, as we know that you are intelligent and level-headed. And benevolent.
hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Amanda
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 6.20 AM - 3/27 2002
Thomas is only sorry that he got caught. People like him need to be taught a
lesson. He has tarnished Ramons experience in Australia and I'm over letting
people get off just because they say sorry. He should have thought about the
consequences before he wrote such an offensive e-mail.
Name: Thomas Jackson
City, Country: Auckland
Sent: 4.17 AM - 3/27 2002
Hi ramon,
Thank you so much. I don't have any words to explain my gratitude. Please do
not let my personal information to anyone else.
RAMON:
"Thomas", please contact me by email.
Name: "Thomas Jackson"
City, Country: auckland, New Zealand
Sent: 1.41 AM - 3/27 2002
Hello Ramon and others,
I am really sorry for sending the previous message. Now since you have found
out from where I am. I know the cops will find me easily. You are right I am a
university student. But I really don't want to tarnish the name of my
University or my parents. My real name is not even Thomas Jackson. I really did
not mean anything seriously. I wanted to just have fun(I know the seriousness
of it) after seeing Andys message. I know you have informed the cops. Please I
beg you to take the complaint back and forgive me. I don't want to spoil the
name of my university, family and parents who have worked hard to send me to
the university. To all others who use the discussion board I am sorry and
please forgive me. I really am ashamed of myself. I am honest this time. I
really mean no harm not only to Ramon but to anyone else. Please do help me in
this matter. Ramon and the others in the discussion board please help me. Dont
put me behind bars. I am sorry for having used any offensive and threatening
language in my message. Please. I am not jealous of your effort Ramon. I am
really proud of what you have done. But I just sent the message to have some
fun without realizing what I have done really. The hand of the law is firm and
I can't escape it. I know you can find me out by this message I have sent. I am
down to my knees. I beg you all to forgive me. I promise I will never send
offensive messages, harm others or think evil about anyone else at all. This
mental torture of being caught by the police is punishment enough. Please I beg
you ramon and others in the discussion board.
Name: Kelli
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Sent: 11.54 PM - 3/26 2002
Ramon,
Please dont take any notice of losers like Andy & Thomas. It is nothing but
pure and simple jealousy !! We really are a great bunch here down under - but I
am sure you already know that!!
I only wish I had HALF the courage you have to do what you have done.
Travelling the world is only a dream of mine.
I wish there was more people like you in this rapidly depressing world of ours.
Take care, be careful and most of all - enjoy yourself!
Best wishes..
Kelli
Name: Frans Wilbrink
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Sent: 11.22 PM - 3/26 2002
Hey Ramon,
First of all sorry I took so long to finally post something here...druk druk
druk, you know how that goes...
These idiots like 'thomas' and 'Andy' have no clue how much work 'freeloading'
actually involved.
When Ramon stayed in my place he worked till deep in the night to write his
updates. We kept him up way too long just by talking about all kinds of stuff
and still he had the willpower to work on his website..
Andy's view is luckily not one that is shared by most aussies... I guess he's
just a jealous nitwit...
As for 'thomas' what can you say.. he needs some serious counceling... So you
don't like what Ramon does? fine, don't invite him, post a message on the board
he's a freeloader and get on wiht your life...making deathtreads in a public
forum where you can be traced is not only stupid, but illegal too...
Ramon, take care and don't let idiots like these get to you... I know you are
smart enough not to get in trouble... If you need any help, just let me know...
As for the other readers, All I can say is I can really recommend inviting
Ramon. He's a nice easygoing guy who really has heart for his project. I
haven't regretted inviting him 1 second!
I don't see Ramon as a freeloader, I see him a guy who wants to travel the
world (don't we all?) without the use of monetairy funds... there is more in
the world then just money. Once you've met Ramon you know that 'lazy' and
'Ramon' are 2 words who are very hard to combine...
Name: Jo Dunning
City, Country: Raumati Beach, Kapiti coast, New Zealand
Sent: 8.37 PM - 3/26 2002
Can't wait till you get here - what a pity a few plonkers have spoiled your
time in the land of Oz - i know they're not all like that - here's hoping the
kiwi plonkers are all asleep when you get here.
I think you're living a dream of many of us who would love to be able to do
what you're doing but can't - and by having you stay lets us have a small share
in the experience.
Take care and i sure hope you visit kiwi land soon.
Name: Charlotte
City, Country: Vienna, Austria
Sent: 2.54 PM - 3/26 2002
Hi, Ramon - be careful, because I want you to be my guest, when once in a
future life you pass by in Vienna. So - without joking -I do hope, that these
insane people, who don't understand the meaning of your way to travel, will be
found sonn and that you can continue without any further problems.
Love and good luck
Charlotte
Name: Lauren
City, Country: Lancashire, NW England
Sent: 11.53 AM - 3/26 2002
Hi Ramon,
Hope your travels are going as well as ever! If you ever come back to the UK,
come up to the north to stay! ;-)
I find it really pathetic that some people actually bother to come here and
write so much about how stupid they think this whole idea is - if they dislike
it so much, why come onto the site in the first place? Sad....
Take care and have fun,
Love Lauren xxx
Name: Evelyn Hooper
City, Country: Dortmund, Germany
Sent: 10.01 AM - 3/26 2002
Hi traveller! I wish you all the best on your journey. If you ever come to
Germany, feel free to pop in, you´re welcome at our house!
Have a save journey!
Evelyn.
Name: Carole
City, Country: Ottawa, Canada
Sent: 3.21 AM - 3/26 2002
Hi Ramon,
Just wanted to let you know that you have another avid follower! I am
thoroughly enjoying the reports of your travels through Australia (I have been
a regular reader of your website since last June). I love your pictures
(especially the candid ones!) I particularly like the way your daily reports
give us the 'common' man's viewpoint not the one usually offered in the glitzy
tourist brochures.
Anyone who has a problem with your unique approach to travel isn't worth
wasting time on. You shouldn't let the Andys and Thomas' of this world dampen
your enthusiasm. For every one of them there are thousands of us who recognize
how much time and effort goes into "publishing" your daily reports.
Keep up the good work - I look forward to your future(?) arrival in North
America.
Carole
Name: Syd and Marion Brown
City, Country: MURWILLUMBAH , AUSTRALIA
Sent: 3.14 AM - 3/26 2002
We have just been fortunate enough to have Ramon stay-for-a-day.He is an
exemplary guest; easygoing, tolerant,flexible and totally without expectation.
On top of this he is prepared to participate and provoke discussion on a wide
range of topics and as you can imagine he is good at it.
His stay was our gain.
Thanks Ramon and Good Luck!
Syd & Marion
Name: Jennifer
City, Country: Omaha, Nebraska, USA
Sent: 2.46 AM - 3/26 2002
Ramon, I am frightened for you. Be careful!
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 11.24 PM - 3/25 2002
Hi Ramon
As you know, we are all very protective towards you and threatening remarks
from people like Andy and Thomas are rather worrying. I just hope that neither
of them use a false name and send you an invitation! Be very careful Ramon and
I wish you a safe journey.
Love
Sylvia and Family xxx
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 9.35 PM - 3/25 2002
Ramon, Thanks for taking action on "Thomas". This message board is
about sharing your travels with everyone else who travels with you.
Annette, Thank you for letting us know how hard Ramon does work to keep this
project going. Without him we all wouldn't get to see the world and enjoy all
the little bits of history, and other facts he reports in his letters. Plus the
great pictures. Hell, I'm not envious of Ramons project, I'm envious of Ramon.
Take Care, Happy Trails.
Bret
Name: Annette
City, Country: Brighton, UK
Sent: 5.24 PM - 3/25 2002
I've only just seen the ... how can I put this nicely ... um ...negative
messages that have been posted lately. I really have difficulty believing how
narrow-minded some people can be!
I was kind of a surprise host right back a month after the project started
(well the travel bit anyway! I dread to think how much work had to be done
before leaving!) - I say surprise host because the first I knew of it was when
my housemate Chris said "by the way we've got this Dutch guy from the internet
staying in about half an hour". I can honestly say that when I met Ramon I
was extremely jealous that I hadn't thought of the idea first, but by half way
through his visit I was glad that I didn't! The amount of work he had to do
made my teaching workload of lesson preparation, marking (around 60 books a
night), assessment, etc look totally insignificant!
I actually thought he'd left by about 1.30pm because I hadn't seen him for a
while, but three hours later he emerged from behind Chris' computer thanking us
for our hospitality and saying he should be leaving for his next host! I have
never known anyone spend that long working voluntarily!
Before people make such vibrant judgements about Ramon's 'work ethic' I suggest
they take a moment to find out the facts - I personally have never seen anyone
work quite so hard, and despite such bizarre circumstances. I am glad I didn't
think of the idea first, I don't think I could have coped with the workload!
Keep up the good work, Ramon, you're definitely doing my travelling for me! I'd
never get to 'see' so many places without all your hard work!
Good luck with future travels, and God bless.
Annette
><>
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 7.40 AM - 3/25 2002
Brian, You came through again! Thanks for a great post, and putting things in
perspective.
As for Thomas Jackson, you haven't paid too much attention to this message
board. Because if you did, you would know that Ramon has access to who you are
and who your provider is, who knows where you live. So expect a visit from your
local police official pal. Because you just made a death threat to someone,
which should always be taken seriously. This may seem funny to you, but it
isn't to those of us who travel with Ramon, and especially his family who care
for his well being. I'm sure we will no longer hear from you Thomas because you
WILL! be shut down. You signed a contract with your provider that most likely
prohibits you from such actions. May you learn from your stupidity.
To all of my friends on the message board. You now know what it takes to
"lift my relays!" I'm really hopeing Ramon takes action on Thomas'
post. Some posts can be shrugged off, but death threats should always be taken
seriously.
Ramon, I really hope you do report Thomas. If you drop Thomas' post, please
dump this one also, so it doesn't spark unnecessary responses. As always Ramon,
keep it safe, keep up the great article, and Happy Trails.
RAMON:
A lot of things are known about Thomas Jackson by now. The federal police of
New Zealand has received a report about him today.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 7.00 AM - 3/25 2002
Hi all
Yow! Reality check!
While everyone has the right to their opinion, and everyone has freedom of
speech, everyone also has the right to respect and dignity. Think about it.
We can all make judgements, we can all criticise, and we can all ridicule. To
Andy and Thomas, have either of you ever taken five and five (to quote from
someone the other day), and considered the whole picture?
I doubt it!
Ramon is not trying to travel the world by being lazy, dispite what you may
think. His project involves and requires a hell of a lot of work. He has many
things to do, not the least of which is keeping this website up-to-date.
He has to arrange his travels, his accommoddation, and he has to find time, at
his hosts convenience, to attend interviews with many media. And he has to be
friendly and sociable to his hosts.
It may seem like a holiday to you, but Ramon spends many hours each day working
hard. It is a full time job with all the stress of a "normal" job,
and then some. And, on top of all this, Ramon is a decent, friendly, and kind
man, who smiles through everything.
Yes, we all can judge, and we all can ridicule, but is it fair to do this as an
outsider? Andy and Thomas, perhaps you should visit this website in silence for
a week or two, and watch.
Read the messages that Ramon's supporters post, especially those who are
previous hosts. We are in a far better position to pass honest and accurate
comment, since we have seen Ramon at work. Yes, it is only a glimpse of what he
does, but it is something. It is a hell of a lot more than you have seen.
And, with the sour attitude that you exude, it is more than you will ever see.
So, get off your lazy butts, and get a life! Go out there, and do something.
Make the effort. Then, and only then, will you be in a position to speak!
Like all things in life, until you have been there, and have understood the
reality of the situation, you will be unable form honest opinion. It is your
job to do that investigation.
Ramon, I feel so sorry for you having to receive this sort of crap. These guys
are clearly social outcasts, and until they actually make the effort to fit in
with society, they will never be welcome among us.
I am sorry for being so blunt, Ramon. Keep up the great work, and ignore naive
stupidity like that which emerges from brainless individuals.
Kind regards
Brian
Name: Wayne
City, Country: Brisbane
Sent: 6.45 AM - 3/25 2002
One question Andy,
what do you do for a job? I got laid off a couple of months ago, and now I just
started my own business, I'm working 60 hours a week, and not paying myself
YET. I'm having a real go, not sitting behind my PC typing in puerile (sorry,
that means childish, Andy) messages to another bloke who's having a go too.
What do you think of that? Working for nothing AND not on the dole. [Oh yeah,
and I'm a Kiwi - I bet they're ALL bludgers in your little head].
Have a good look at yourself - if you can handle it.
Now onto better things:
Ramon - the only people you will get any abuse from are the ones who are p....d
off they didn't think of the idea first. You are proving that the majority of
the people of the world actually like eachother.
Stay safe and have fun.
PS just saw Andy's best mate Thomas' message - they have done pretty well by
using their common brain cell !! 8-D
Name: thomas jackson
City, Country: Australia,sydney
Sent: 3.27 AM - 3/25 2002
Hey guys,
Are u nuts????I fully support Andy. we shouldn't be supporting this free loader
at all. If I get my hands on this bastard I will slaughter him. Death to all
free loaders.
RAMON:
I haven taken this message as a serious death-threat and will contact this
persons ISP as soon as possible and provide his local police with all details.
Someway people don't get that I can get their full name and address from the
web.
Mr. Jackson is online in Auckland, New Zealand, his provider is Asian Pacific
Information Network
A search on the web results in the facts that he even supports Central United
F.C. and he's probably just a simple university student...
Speak to you soon Thomas, or should I mention your real name here?
Name: Sandy Mulholland
City, Country: Victoria Point,QLD Australia
Sent: 1.29 AM - 3/25 2002
Dear Ramon,
Re the knockers. Ignore ignorant people like that. I am sure you have already
found out that the majority of Aussies do not share their sentiments. Basically
small minded people like that are a minority.
Hope you enjoyed your stay on the Central Coast of NSW, Gosford is my home town
and I have 2 children living and working there. It is a beautiful area and I
miss it very much, and my kids too. Stay happy, and hope to see you soon.
Regards, Sandy
Name: Amanda
City, Country: Canberra, Australia
Sent: 12.58 AM - 3/25 2002
Hi Guys!!
I think its just fabulous that you all are rebuking what Andy has said but I
think that he has received enough attention. He's obvioulsy a pathetic
individual who felt the need for attention, be it positive or negative. Let's
concerntrate of the amazing adventure that Ramon has embarked on!! Am I
jealous?? Absolutely! Am I supportive...of course. Happy travells and positive
thinking!!!
Name: Simon
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 2.39 PM - 3/24 2002
Hmm, to Andy, let me remind you again 'sponging off' occurs both ways. If there
are people WILLING TO GIVE, it is not sponging. Dole-bluggers of the Australian
tax system are spongers. We (tax payers) have NO SAY where our tax goes to.
THAT IS SPONGING. This is a gift, and it normally happens from people who have
a heart of love... then again, you will not have a clue what this means, do
you. As for Todd (USA), yes, I agree the homeless and Ramon are 'in common' to
the extent that they 'have no where to stay'. The difference is that Ramon IS
DOING SOMETHING ABOUT IT: using this skills and intelligence, personality and
talent. That, to me, is 'getting off his lazy arse and working for it' by using
his brain and marketing skills(this is for Angry Aussie Andy again).
Have fun, Ramon. As far as I am concerned, you are running an 'e-business' via
this website, and you are definitely the wisest and smartest businessman I have
ever met. No outlay, but heaps of income. Isn't that every business's dream????
Name: Acadia
City, Country: Maine, USA
Sent: 1.28 PM - 3/24 2002
Australia, now there is the place I would go if I had only one choice. I am
glad you are there, allowing me to continue my vicarious world travels.
Wonderful pictures, as usual Ramon.
I am glad the Andys of the world are in the minority.
But they can cause a stir since they are the loud ones. The kind people of the
world generally go about their business quietly and matter-of-factly.
Name: Todd
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.25 AM - 3/24 2002
I find this all very interesting. All your doors are open for Ramon, while you
step over and ignore the homeless person in the street.
Go figure.
Name: Bridget
City, Country: Adelaide Australia
Sent: 2.20 AM - 3/24 2002
Andy you represent yourself and only yourself when you say *we* in Australia do
not want Ramon here, if that was the case then no one would be hosting him,
obviously you were asleep when the Olympics were on and they declared it the
*Best Ever* because of our hospitality of which you know nothing about. So you
f off and go get a life and I am sure there are corporate executives out there
who would love to employ Ramon for his ingenuity, thrill of adventure and great
marketing skills and go getter mentality, Andy you could learn a lot from
Ramon.
Ramon have a wonderful stay in Australia and where ever you will travel to
because for one Andy out there, there are a billion people who would love to
have you in their home and share your sense of adventure.
Up yours Andy!!
Name: Kjell
City, Country: Lensvik, Norway
Sent: 4.37 PM - 3/23 2002
Good luck on your journey!!!
We're sorry that you could not stay with us while you were in Norway. Perhaps you'll
make it to Scandinavia later?
Anyway - Take care and once again good luck!!!
Name: Andrzej Maciejewski
City, Country: Moscow, Ontario, Canada
Sent: 7.14 AM - 3/23 2002
There will always be those (like Andy) who will never see beyond a set standard.
If you've seen and remember "Easy Rider" movie you will know what I
mean. Whitout people like Ramon the world would be a very boring and sad place.
Go ahead Ramon, do what you are doing and keep our fantasy alive! Those who
dont like what you are doing are simple jelous.
Anyway, we would love you to visit our Moscow (pop.60) in Ontario, Canada.
Name: Kerry
City, Country: Melbourne
Sent: 5.57 AM - 3/23 2002
You are a disgrace Andy and it makes me wonder just how "Australian"
you are. Speak for yourself when you tell Ramon that we don't want him here,
and not on behalf of the "true" Australians that are more than happy
for him to be doing what he's doing. The jealousy has certainly come out in
your words Andy!!!.
Good luck with your travels Ramon. Its an ingenious idea and I (along with the
majority of Australians) wish you all the very best. Enjoy our beautiful
country and the hospitality of the "nice" people here :-))
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.36 AM - 3/23 2002
Hey Andy, if you really want to prove your point, why don't you invite Ramon to
stay for a day? You can be a total jerk, not give him anything, write all about
him blood sucking off of you in this message board. You could even make him
sleep in your yard on the dirt (if you have a yard), and then Ramon can write
about your hospitality for letting him stay for a day in your yard. My guess is
Ramon would gratefully thank you for your yard and for the invitation.
Andy, I think you got the message. F off! :-)
Joan
Name: Jane
City, Country: Perth W.A
Sent: 5.10 AM - 3/23 2002
Ramon -- please dont give another thought to Angry Ant Andrew.. He certainly
isnt speaking for all of Australia, and definately not me ....Just between me
and u ....I think hes jealous he didnt think of Traveling the world for free
before u did !!
Happy journey thru-out my country and take your memories home to share with
people in your own country --good luck.
Name: Emma Marie
City, Country: New York
Sent: 4.12 AM - 3/23 2002
Wow Andy, thank God you don't represent the whole of Australia. I spent 2
months going around Oz, and found the Australians to be a very caring and
hospitable group of people. I'm lucky I did not run into you. I might be laying
out in the outback somewhere, never to be found. Such anger makes one wonder
what you do to people!!!!! Ramon, enjoy every minute of your stay and you will
continue to find what wonderful, friendly people the Australians are. Stay
well.
Name: Irene
City, Country: Cornubia, Australia
Sent: 2.53 AM - 3/23 2002
Well well well Andy, you must have been in a caring, sharing mood when you
wrote that message! For you were so diplomatic, and what a charming choice of
words, so convincing too! The dulcet tones still ring in my ears. I actually
got out my little poem note book and scribbled down some of those beautiful
expressions you shared with everybody. Very classy Andy. NOT.
Enjoy your journey, Ramon :-)
Name: Wild Bill
City, Country: Leadville Colorado, USA
Sent: 2.45 AM - 3/23 2002
You go Guy - Andy is just a narrow minded person that has a lack of soul &
sense of adventure. I would do what you are doing in a heartbeat if I wasn't
already locked in with a terrific job. Good luck to you - And come see me when
you get to Colorado.
Name: Tracey
City, Country: Gosford,NSW, Australia
Sent: 2.16 AM - 3/23 2002
Hi,
I am horrified at the previous message left by "Andy"
He is obviously from "Mars" not Australia & definately one jelous
moron.
Good luck to you, enjoy your stay down under & remember, we Aussi's are
friendly people but i guess every city has one big loser!
regards
Tracey
Name: andy
City, Country: sydney, australia
Sent: 1.44 AM - 3/23 2002
Hey free loader.
The Aussie way is to support our fellow human being and not to sponge off of
them. Fuck off out of OZ you scum sucker. We (Australia) DO NOT want you here
in this country! If you want something then just get off your lazy arse and
work for it!
p.s. Fuck off, your still here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 9.37 PM - 3/22 2002
hello ramon, how are you? gosh..the poll.. nice idea, though I personally think
they'd better put a 4th choice, that is "(ramon should do) what he
considers the best for himself". anyway.. I thicked the 3rd one, because
it seemed the most consistent with the original aim of your
"enterprise"..
I keep on reading your reports from the mailinglist, and I wish you lots of
enjoyment.
ciao, donatella
Name: Tamar
City, Country: Barcelona, Spain
Sent: 8.25 PM - 3/22 2002
Hi Ramon,
I was really amazed when I first read your traveling story while reading a very
popular spanish magazine.
You're a very smart guy, you're lucky to travel this way !!!!
Just keep it up and have fun !
Greetings from Barcelona,
Tamar.
Name: Jens
City, Country: Germany
Sent: 7.26 PM - 3/22 2002
wow kinda impressive, $35 for that tour.. very nice :)
they just introduced your idea and your site on our local radio station.
I'll go to the US next year, perhaps this is the way to travel in the future ;)
keep it up!
greets from germany
Jens
Name: Oliver
City, Country: Germany
Sent: 6.43 PM - 3/22 2002
this goes out 2 u Andy ... It sound kinda jealous u sittin`in the world`s
famous sandpit and ramon is goin`2 see the whole without a dime in his pocket
?!?!?!
Name: Oliver
City, Country: Germany
Sent: 6.35 PM - 3/22 2002
I`ve never heard that some1 tried 2 see the world in u`r way. It`s shurly the
proof that poeople r not that kinda stonehearded. I really hope that u have a
lotta interesting places 2 see and a hole lotta more interesting people 2 meet
on u`r trip.
Name: Monica
City, Country: Melbourne Australia
Sent: 10.28 AM - 3/22 2002
I agree with you Karen. I think that what Ramon is doing is like a job. He does
not really have a lot of time because he does write all those reports and has
to find all the places he has been invited too and then work out a schedule and
then get there. So he probably works more hours than Andy. Andy should worru
about his own life and let others live theirs the way they choose.
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 9.23 AM - 3/22 2002
Andy, why is it bothering you so much what Ramon is doing? Are you also that
upset by people who are travelling and all expenses being paid for by their
parents or something? As those travellers are also not working for their
money...don't see what all the fuss is about; Ramon and his hosts are having a
good time, most people who log onto the website enjoy reading it, so I don't
see any problems! And Ramon is not begging for money, it is offered to him by
people who like his idea and are willing to support him. And has it ever
occured to you that writing the reports every day can be seen as work?
Name: andy
City, Country: Sydney Australia
Sent: 9.05 AM - 3/22 2002
This free loading wanker is not - r - not welcome in Australia so why is he
here??? I put you in the same bracket as those scum sucking, dole bludging
wastes of space scattered throughout OZ. If you want something then work for
it!!!!!!!!!!!!
INSERT EXPLETIVES here!
RAMON:
Here you go: how pathetic...
Name: dbk Tom
City, Country: New Zealand
Sent: 6.28 AM - 3/22 2002
Hi Ramon,I think Greg is right.
Take your time ,and I've got a address of a dutch joker you have to go and see
in Ausy.
He left Holland in 1950 and his family never heard from him for 40 years.
Lived in the outback near Perth,but has a Computer in a shed,and lives in his 4
wheel drive.
If you want a good story go and see him.
dbk Tom
Name: Greg James
City, Country: Pemberton, Australia
Sent: 2.14 AM - 3/22 2002
Ramon,
First, your idea is great! The original and the best!
Second, Australia is a BIG place, with sooooo much great stuff to see. So make
sure you don't hang around too long in the same area or in boring places - get
moving, and see all Australia has to offer! Make sure you make it to the Top
End, Tasmania, WA and New Zealand ... sorry, I forgot for a moment that it's
not just the eastern-most state of Australia! Honestly, though, any *gutsy*
traveller will make sure they really get around, without leaving big things
unseen. The BIG things may actually also be the LITTLE things - you never know!
It's a bigger task than you think to travel around this Great Southern Land -
do yourself a favour and make sure you do it right! Give yourself time, before
you burn out! So, like I say, get moving man!
Third, I love your travel/stay 'Ethics Contract' with yourself - I can
Good luck, stay safe, and be happy! :-)
Cheers.
Name: sherina
City, Country: kl, malaysia
Sent: 1.07 PM - 3/21 2002
hi. fair enough ;-) i went to vote. some people have perhaps taken you
seriously though as they opted for no.2 but hey, maybe they think it's funny as
well.
don't know if this bit would be OT here, feel free to delete it it so. back in
1997 i came to know of this (23 year old then) french guy who started his
travel from the hospital he was born in (outskirts of paris). he was to travel
for 1000 days with a total amount of USD1000 around the world, and arrive back
where he started new year of 2000. he was one of the first people i came to
know online. i knew it when he left, and he left messages when he was in india
volunteering at one of mother theresa's organisation. i also got an email when
he was in malacca (malaysia), but i was on my own travel then. lost touch after
that, and have no idea whether he made it. i hope so.
Name: sherina
City, Country: kl, malaysia
Sent: 12.44 PM - 3/21 2002
haven't had the time to read your reports, but the latest email that popped in
my mailbox for the poll just cracked me up. why? well i just had a funny
feeling when it was going to come to getting sponsors for the GF to travel as
well - isn't that a bit much? shouldn't australia be quite affordable? i'd
probably get bashed for this opinion, but it's just too 'funny'. i'm all for
all the travels you've been doing though - so keep at it.
RAMON:
Don't misunderstand me, it is a question in a poll, which means I am just
looking for opinions. It's not a fact that I am searching for a sponsor for
Irena. It's not a fact that IF she comes this way, she will travel with me. Oh
no, she has a life herself too! She is in the army and can go on leave for a
little little while.... And of course it's funny, otherwise I would not have
asked it ;-)
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 11.21 PM - 3/20 2002
Hi Ramon
Pleased to see that you are still having a brilliant time and being well looked
after. It looks like you are receiving many invitations and getting good
publicity, which should bring in even more invites.
My real reason for writing was to ask if you still have the "Let Me Stay
For A Day Gift" from your present host to your next host?
RAMON:
The Gift-thing was worrying me too much as it is another thing for me to think
about and there were certain times in the past that I just totally forgot about
it. When the chain was broken several times, I didn't felt any need
-personally- to restart it again. Sorry if I disappoint you.
Name: Ron
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 12.27 PM - 3/20 2002
By the amount of invitations Ramon received in Oz the Big Bang Party will be in
2004
So plenty of time to book your airtline ticket to Sydney
Name: Martin
City, Country: Roden, Netherlands
Sent: 3.34 AM - 3/20 2002
Brian, i WILL look you up when i get to SA. Even if the lmsfad team is jealous
and don't come up with the details, i'll gues i will find you. :-)
Ron: If you get to talk to Channel 9, ask them to throw in a couple off
tickets! I know some people from the Netherlands, SA, US, who would love to be
a part of the BIG bang. Could be a nice item for Channel 9 :-)
Name: Janske
City, Country: Bergeijk, The Netherlands
Sent: 11.39 PM - 3/19 2002
To Brett, Brian and all other future members of the Board of Supporters!
Nice idea, it's good to see so many people supporting Ramon on his trips far
away for us Dutchies... Now we know for certain he's not coming back real soon!
;) Somewhere it's relief to know he's not at his own...
Name: Crescent Songs
City, Country: EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND, UK
Sent: 10.36 PM - 3/19 2002
Ramon,
Can you contribute to another site, namely ** www.gapyear.com **...; as a
travel writer.
I think an approach would be met with approval, but that would depend on them
and not just guesswork on our part .Just an idle thought, for what it's worth?
How are your legs holding out on these bitumen strip roads out in the Aussie
Bush Country, or is it lifts all the way.
Seize the moment as is appropriate, Mate.
Try to get to PERTH, WA, if you haven't done that yet. You won't regret it, I
promise you.
Best regards.
G & T.(Crescent Songs).
~#;¬{o>
Name: Ron
City, Country: Sydney
Sent: 1.03 PM - 3/19 2002
Well .........who knows lol
Ill have to talk to channel 9 first
Name: Ron (kanga) Roos
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 9.33 AM - 3/19 2002
When Ramon finishes his Oz experience there will be a big party in Sydney
We will invite all houseguest and sponsors.
He will go out with a BIG bang………
Ron
Dutch On-line promotions
Sydney
www.dutch.net.au
RAMON:
I even heard that Ron is going to pay the entire bill, haha!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.11 AM - 3/19 2002
Hi all
Where do I start? Martin, thanks for the invite and the offer. It would be fun
to meet up with you guys there in Netherlands, the backup team, and of course,
the Board of Supporters from all over.
Martin, and Bret, if you are ever in SA, then you MUST look me up. Ramon,
Gerben, Munk, and the Team can give you my details. If they are not too
jealous... :-)
I've just bought a house, and moved in last week. There is more space than
there was when Ramon was here.
Bret, thanx for your compliment. Also, your comments about Munk and his team
are so true. We must support them too. The backup team are like the producers and
backstage staff in a TV show, movie, or theatre production. They are absolutely
crucial, but virtually never seen.
Anyone for a beer?
Sala kahle
Brian
Name: João Paglione
City, Country: Coral springs, Florida
Sent: 5.00 AM - 3/19 2002
Hi Ramon!
I began to follow your website just before I planned a cross-country car trip
from Florida to California. We drove a 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. Your website
helped inspire us in a wierd way. I continued to read it when I lived in LA and
always thought about starting my own travel site. Finally, I moved to New York
after 9/11 (not what most people would do!) and worked there for a few months.
During that time, I became even more active in internet travel sites.
Eventually, I founded a travel community with a friend in Ecuador. It's called
UNUM and it is latin for ALL. We post links to your site there and many of our
members are also fans!!
Take care and good luck in Oz!!
Don't forget to stay with us when you are in Florida.
Joao Paglione
Name: Martin
City, Country: Roden, Netherlands
Sent: 2.07 AM - 3/19 2002
Bret and Brian:
You know you are welcome at Ramon's place when his 'project' is over (i gues he
could go on for ever).
If that time comes, please let me know, i'll buy you guys a beer. Maybe 2.
One day i will go to SA and the USA.
Maybe i need a place to sleep ;-)
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 11.31 PM - 3/18 2002
Brian,
I'm coming to you if ever I need a mission statement. I support this mission
statement 100%. :-) Maybe we should add. "We shall always support Ramons
backup-team in good times as well as bad, and to send them kudos for their
tremendous job."
Now if there is some way to buy the backup team a beer, or beverage of their
choice. You know, just to smooth things out. We can't be upsetting the back up
team. I'm open for suggestions.
As always, happy trails Ramon, always looking forward to your next report.
Brian, keep those good posts coming.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 12.24 PM - 3/18 2002
Hi all
Bret, I laughted at your description of us:- "Board Members"! Good
one, Bret. Doesn't that seem odd, we know virtually nothing about each other,
only that we all support Ramon and all he does.
Hail! The start of the Let-me-stay-for-a-day Board of Supporters. How about a
mission statement? Mmmmmm, "Our mission is to support and encourage Ramon
when it's needed, and even when it's not needed, and to defend his actions in
the face of criticism." Sounds cool, hey! :-)
Keep going, Ramon, your reports are always facinating, always professional, and
always entertaining.
RAMON:
Brian, members of my backup-team are getting jealous! They think I won't
need them anymore soon. :-)
Name: Tom
City, Country: Hong Kong
Sent: 10.59 AM - 3/18 2002
I just read the article in the South China Morning Post magazine about you (it
was published yesterday). Too bad you couldn't stay longer in Hong Kong, there
is so much to see in this amazing city. I run a record label in Hong Kong and
the same woman (Fionnualla) interviewed me awhile back for the SCMP.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 11.35 AM - 3/15 2002
I really want to say thank you to Jan and Joke for including me in their post.
I was quite tickled when I read it. You really are special people, and it shows
throught that wonderful son of yours. Of course I'm not going to stop here,
because I also want to give a shout out to my fellow board members, Sylvia,
Joan, Brian, Donatella, Munk, Gerben (waiting for that report), and all others
who's names escape me at this moment. It's good to see you all here.
To everyone else new to the board, as you can see there are some great people
here who are sharing Ramons Adventure. Welcome and enjoy.
Munk,
You reported that your place is a dump? Ahhh, my friend, it is not a dump, it's
a place where you put all you STUFF! See! now it's got some meaning to it.
Personally I like Black and White, even though I'm a color printer. If you
still use film as apposed to digital, and your looking for some neat effects,
let me know. I know some neat processes. Take Care all, talk soon.
Bret
RAMON:
Bret, please contact me to get in contact with Munk to keep this board
on-topic. Thanks.
Name: Genny
City, Country: Toronto, Canada
Sent: 12.45 AM - 3/15 2002
Small world! I know Stan Fung's sister! :)
Name: Mischa
City, Country: Zwolle, the Netherlands
Sent: 2.04 PM - 3/14 2002
I wonder what's wrong with those people that keep writing that your project
sucks... I just took a quick tour down this messageboard, but they seem to
appear every few days. Why bother, guys? There's plenty of room on the internet
where jealous fellows like you don't get frustrated by another one's
creativity...
Name: Janske
City, Country: Bergeijk, The Netherlands
Sent: 12.25 PM - 3/14 2002
God, I thought you were the blond one and I the brunette, but now it feels the
other way around! Thanks anyway!
Name: Janske
City, Country: Bergeijk, The Netherlands
Sent: 11.16 AM - 3/14 2002
Oh so true, Martin! Although I know for sure where Ramon got it's idea for the
worldtravel, now I wonder if he hadn't been able to go sooner if the K's Choice
song had thesame impact on him then! Anyway, this is going to have to be his
'lijflied'! (Ramon, help me out, what's that in english?)
RAMON:
That's "life song", Janske. ;-)
Name: Martin
Hometown: Netherlands
Sent: 12.11 AM - 3/14 2002
K's Choice
Cocoon Crash (1998)
Everything for Free
I don't know who you are
But you seem very nice
So will you talk to me
Shall I tell you a story
Shall I tell you a dream
They think I'm crazy
But they don't know that I like it here
It's nice in here, I get everything for free
Have you been here before
Shall I show you around
It's very pretty
Have you come here to stay
Well, you sure picked a day
My name is Billy
It's my birthday, you're invited to my party down the hall
Where I go, what I'll become or who I am or what I'll be
I'll never know, but I am sure that I'll get everything for free
I'm not troubled or sad
I'm just ready for bed
It's been a long day
Before they switch off the lights
It truly was a delight
They think I'm crazy
But they don't know that I like it here
It's nice in here
Where I go, what I'll become or who I am or what I'll be
I'll never know, but I am sure that I'll get everything for free
Where I go, what I'll become or who I am or what I'll be
I'll never know, but I am sure that I'll get everything for free
Everything for free
I don't know who you are
But you seem very nice
So will you talk to me
Have you been here before
Well, you sure picked a day
They think I'm crazy
I don't know why, but this my favorite song by the Belgium band K's choice.
Everytime i hear it i think about Ramon and his project.
Happy birthday to your website and i hope there will be some more candles on
the cake..
Cheers mate!
RAMON:
Listen to K's Choice online or visit their website at www.kschoice.com.
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 11.49 PM - 3/13 2002
Hello to everyone down in Oz!
If you haven't yet invited Ramon to stay with you for a day, you are missing
out on sharing his 'Great Adventure'. He is great company and you immediately
feel a great fondness for Ramon and also very protective of him and it is sad
to see him go after what seems to be far too short a visit of just one day.
Go on, invite Ramon, otherwise you will miss out!
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 11.32 PM - 3/13 2002
Hi Brian, Bret, Donatella, Sylvia, and everyone. It's great to be back and
seeing all the familiar folks again, and new folks too. And of course enjoying
Ramon's travels, journals, meeting his hosts and hostesses, and seeing the
great pictures. I have found myself going back and "retraveling" to
some of the previous places again this past week, refreshing my memory with the
great South Africa trip and pictures.
Good luck Ramon, travel happy and safe. Take care everyone. Enjoy the ride. :-)
Joan
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 10.05 PM - 3/13 2002
hello, I hope this message will be published, although it ain't that relevant
to the website. I've read the previous messageboard and I just want to say a
word to brian (from SA): welcome back to you, as well. here we are,
"folks", ready to follow the new australian chapter!
thanks for publishing, donatella
Name: Genny
City, Country: Toronto, Canada
Sent: 8.57 PM - 3/13 2002
Ramon,
Great photos of the fog in the Blue Mtns. I had similar weather on my trip to
the Blue Mtns when I was in Oz 1.5 years ago. People didn't believe me when I
told them about the thick fog and now I will just point them to your website
for proof! I'm also glad to see pictures of the Jenolan caves which we had to
skip because of poor road visibility on my day trip to Katoomba.
Try not to miss New Zealand, Ramon. It's a lovely country. Don't forget to have
some kiwi fruit while you're there. It tastes way better in NZ than anything
that is exported.
Re: the question from Sue on 03/12, I found out from a tour of some limestone
caves in Texas that living limestone formations turn black if they are touched
because the oils and dirt from the skin are transferred to the limestone and
form a barrier, preventing further growth of the formations. The scientific
reason for the blackness wasn't entirely explained, but perhaps there is a
chemical reaction between the oils and the impurities in the limestone which
results in a darkening of the rock.
Name: Christian Ampt
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Sent: 7.22 PM - 3/13 2002
You rock man. What a awesome idea. I think it is great to see that people do
have a generous heart. Not just arond Christmas but in the middle of March. It
is great to see so many people take you on board in Australia and I proud to
say I am one of them. When you do come to stay I hope you come between April
and September because I would like to take you to see the greatest game in the
world at the greatest sporting venue in the world, Australian Football at the Melbourne
Cricket Ground. A Essendon v Richmond or Carlton v Collingwood game would be
great. The crouds are huge them days. A pack house of 80,000 - 90,000 screaming
fans. It is a awesome site to see. Then there is actual game. Fast funning game
with freaky goals, spectacular marks, smuthers, steal, punts and torpedos. You
will love it. At half time we can enjoy a bear and a pie at half time. You are
insperation Ramon. Enjoy your time in Australia and don't listen to any
negative comments people try to dish out to you. Your awesome man!
Name: Pakize Kaya
City, Country: Ýzmir, Turkey
Sent: 3.29 PM - 3/13 2002
Hi Ramon, Where are you now? We are waiting you to come Turkey, it will be very
exciting! Have a great journey.
Name: Janske
City, Country: Bergeijk, The Netherlands
Sent: 3.20 PM - 3/13 2002
Indeed, Brian, I'm also honoured te be in Jan and Joke's list, but the list
might be longer, luckily for Ramon. He's still meeting people and his horizon
is getting wider and wider. No photo on this website can tell how much.
Anyway, Ramon, congratulations with the first anniversary of your site,
although I'm starting to believe it's going to be a neverending story! (Oh no!
Not again! No more travels please, no more camera-crews, no more
newspaper-articles! ;) Hihi!)
Name: Shawnnita Fairbairn
City, Country: Moranbah, Australia
Sent: 12.40 PM - 3/13 2002
Ramon, I think that what you are doing shows that there are many wonderful and
good hearted people in this world! Good for you for bringing it out in them!!
Thanks!
Name: Harold
City, Country: OZ
Sent: 12.20 PM - 3/13 2002
You have really got it all together, Had the guts to
go out and do what most of us don't. your tales are
great, And that Camera does a pretty good job. Or
is it the driver ? Good on you mate, keep on doing it.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.45 AM - 3/13 2002
Hi Ramon
Firstly, happy birthday to your website. Yes, others have said it, but it's an
honest sentiment.
Secondly, a great big huge thank you to Jan and Joke for including me in that
special list. Especially after I tried to feed you with something that you
don't eat! :-)
And, wow! I understand what you mean about Australia reminding you of South
Africa. We all get to see the Sydney Harbour photos, but we don't normally see
the stunning places that you have shown us on your website.
Australia really is beautiful. And they have better cricket players than we do.
:-( We won't talk about Super 12...
Ramon, you are still widening our horisons, and opening up our minds, to see
other cultures, other countries, and other scenes, that we are never able to
see in tourist brochures. Your reports are the facts, not the glory.
An equally great huge thank you must go to you for being as objective as you
can. It's really cool to see such incredible journalism.
Then there are the backup team. Munk, Gerben, and the others, keep up the hard
work. Keep your friend out there, but in touch with you guys.
Jeez, that sounds like a speech! Aaarrrrggghhhh!!!!
All the best
Brian
Name: Ann-Maree
City, Country: Darwin, Australia
Sent: 5.42 AM - 3/13 2002
Good for you Ramon, hope we get to see you up here in the Top End. I think what
you are doing is fantastic - who knows - you could spawn a whole new generation
of free travellers ?
Don't listen to the whingers - they'd grizzle if their arse was on fire !
Bloody Australians.
Name: Grant
City, Country: sydney Australia
Sent: 4.16 AM - 3/13 2002
Hey Ramon, I hope you have a fantastic time here in Oz. it's such an amazing
journey that your doing, I'm so jealous. The wed site is great.
cheers
Name: Sylvia (lucky being past host)!
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 2.00 AM - 3/13 2002
Hi Ramon
"Happy Birthday - Happy Birthday - Happy Birthday" and well done on
your first year of "LetMeStayForADay.Com" web site. What a brilliant
time you are going to be having down in Australia. Thanks to your mum and dad
for the mention! Jan and Joke, you must be so proud of Ramon and it is good
that we all feel part of your extended family. I can't wait for the Book at the
end of his travels!
Lots of love
Sylvia and Family xxx
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 12.07 AM - 3/13 2002
hello ramon, let me say "happy birthday" to your website! I've seen
the pictures of your latest report.. you lucky! such a marvellous places,
amazing landscapes (especially the blue river). thanks to your parents of
mentioning me, among the others; I think they should be proud, even only for
your risky "bridge climbing"...
enjoy the adventure! ciao, donatella
Name: Jan & Joke Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Ouderkerk a/d IJssel
Sent: 9.11 PM - 3/12 2002
We as parents of Ramon enjoy the stories and pics from Ramon of course also
very much. But we also enjoy the messageboard with messages of all those
members of the lmsfad-family. as Bret, Brian, Janske, Sylvia, Gerben, Anna,
Donatelle and all the others. We hope that you all will enjoy again the stories
and photographs which Ramon shows us and will give him support in heavy
wheather
Name: Sue
City, Country: California
Sent: 8.50 PM - 3/12 2002
1. Thanks to Channel 9 for arranging your tour of the Blue Mountains and the
caves! These wonderful photos have certainly expanded my appreciation for
Australia's natural beauty! 2. Thanks for the close-ups you included on some of
your tour shots. 3. Why will the crystals (in the cave) turn black forever if
you touch them?
Name: Rhonda
City, Country: Gold Coast. Australia.
Sent: 2.42 PM - 3/12 2002
Welcome to Australia Ramon! I heard about your journey
tonight from a friend who saw the program on TV. He has invited you to his home
and I say Welcome! Enjoy! The majority of us are ok. Don't let the Turkeys get
you down Lovey. I'm sure there are idiots in every country you go to. Stay
Safe.
Name: Daryn
City, Country: Johannesburg, South Africa
Sent: 1.51 PM - 3/12 2002
Ramon, fantastic buddy, absolutely fantastic.
I'm on my own 2 year travel program and am completely blown away by how great
your project is and how successful it has become.
I am in Sydney now and saw the excerpt about you on Channel 9, I thought you
came off brilliantly and it was just unfortunate that the interviewer (or her
producer) tried to portray you as a freeloader. I thought it was pathetic
trying to get you to say you're lazy and don't want to work.
What these people have to realize is that you'd need to work for 6 months to
travel for 6 months and that's valuable time wasted, You've generated one way
of getting around that and you deserve more respect than I can give.
What the interviewer and her producer should realise is that you work just as
hard as them. The amount of time and effort put into your website is astounding
and having the commitment to write entries each day is tough as well. You have
brought a lot of publicity to small companies who have gained just as much as
you.
Congrats and good luck for the rest of your travels.
Dazza
Name: Janske
City, Country: Bergeijk, The Netherlands
Sent: 1.36 PM - 3/12 2002
Munk, Don't beg.... you can easily buy your curtains!
Ramon, well, what's that for a welcome in Australia? Thought that people were
nice overthere, but now I'm doubting... Relax, as soon as they know who you
are, they understand the idea, and they'll be happy to have you over. (But, as
Miek said, just for a day or two! ;) Hahaha ). Good luck, hear from you soon!
Name: Dogsy
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 1.34 PM - 3/12 2002
What are these w..kers (would prefer to use the F... word)saying. They are
obviously not real Australians. You'll find any real Aussie would be quite
happy to give you a beer in exchange for a good old yarn at the pub or around
the Barbie!!! There's nuthin' more that your good old aussie fella or Lady
like's than a free Beer/Beverage (Free Piss!!!). Your trip is just an extention
of that desire for the good old freebie!!!. Maybe you like travelling more than
beer, I dunno!!!
Good On ya dude, watch out for those A...holes out there, coz there's plenty of
'em!!!
Hey maybe you buy me a beer and I tell you a story!!! Ha no wukas
Name: Munk
Sent: 1.07 PM - 3/12 2002
Well, at least Ramon's photo does not show what kind of a dump I'm living in.
O, and by the way, the awful curtains in the background have been discarded. I
don't have new ones yet, though...
Name: David & Ivan
City, Country: Brisbane, Australia
Sent: 11.06 AM - 3/12 2002
I think you have come up with the idea that everyone else wishes they had. You
will be the most talked about guy in our country for a while. We wish you every
sucess with your travels and hope that all this negativity is not being relayed
any where other than on your website. Australia is not known for it.
I hope you decide to come and stay with us and we will take you 4WD along the
beach. One that you will never forget.
I wish I had the guts to do what your doing.
Good on ya mate!
D I
Name: Munk
Sent: 10.10 AM - 3/12 2002
Hey Bret,
Photography's coming along fine, I prefer colour. Just started another project
with two friends. Next week also session for some aerial pictures for
newspapers in the area. And yes, I didn't think anyone would remember. Have
some great shots on Ramon too, but that's a different story... :)
RAMON:
Haha! Me first with one with Munk
Name: Brendan
City, Country: Canberra Australia
Sent: 7.27 AM - 3/12 2002
how do you do it man
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 7.12 AM - 3/12 2002
Hi Ramon
Jeez! Oz really is a country of contrasts. Some love you, some hate you! Hey
guys, relax. Get over your jealousy. Ramon is a wonderful, friendly, and honest
man, I know, I hosted him for a couple of days.
Ramon, it is hard to describe the feelings when I visit your website.
Nostalgia? In a strange sort of way, I s'pose that's the best word.
It is good to read your stories, and see your photographs. And it's good to see
all your fans, our friends from your website. Donatella, Bret, Sylvia, Joan,
and all the others. Welcome back, folk.
Ramon, I'm truly impressed with your comments about how some places over there
remind you of some places over here in SA. Did SA make such a good impression
on you? I hope so. Perhaps one day, when your project is done, you'll bring
Irena here, and show her our country.
Keep well, Ramon, and keep as friendly, honest, and loyal as you were here in
Durban. To the ozzies, look after our hero, guys!
Hamba kahle.
Brian
Name: Simon
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 2.57 AM - 3/12 2002
Hi Ramon,
As a foreigner who has just applied for Permanent Residency in Australia, I am
actually quite horrified by some of the abuses you have to put up with from
certain Australians. I don't see your project as 'free-loading', or 'lazy'. It
is a matter of perspective, and a matter of looking at it from a positive point
of view. Some people feel 'used' and 'threatened' by the fact that you do not
have to pay for anything because they regard this as unfair TO THEM. I suppose
it hits too close to home for Australians as far as 'dole-bluggers' are
concerned. However, I see your action as something brilliantly refreshing,
simply because you DO NOT FORCE anyone to do anything, or to give you anything.
Unlike bludgers who constantly rely on tax-payers' hard-earned money, YOU GIVE
US THE CHOICE.
I remember the segment on Channel Nine when the female interviewer asked if she
has to pay for your lunch at the lunch bar, and you said, "If you want
to." She agreed. I don't see that as an obligation, but just a decision
instigated by a freedom of choice.
Ramon, you are an instrument for self-reflection, human goodness and decency.
By being who you are and what you do, we as a community of strangers are forced
to look within ourselves to see just how comfortable we are to 'open doors to
strangers' and to welcome them with love and compassion, and the desire to
share, learn and experience. Every person who has given positive feedback here,
and who has open their doors to you, deserves credit for being able to show any
signs of love and encouragement admist a world of bitterness, jealousy and
anger.
Ramon, you are always welcome at our place should you ever come to Perth.
Australia has become my second home, next to Singapore. I want it to be as
close to home for you too.
Best wishes, and all the best, Simon
Name: Scott
City, Country: Woolgoolga Australia
Sent: 2.21 AM - 3/12 2002
I reakon you should come visit coffs harbour as we are between brisbane and
sydney and offer the best beaches in the world. We also have the Big Banana and
trust me its worth a look as its a great icon. then 30km norht is woolgoolga
where i live and we have beaches and the indian temple with our on version on
the RAJ MAHAL. Woolgoolga has the largest population of indians outside india
and you wouldnt know it as there arent a billion of them walking around.
Woolgoolga or Woopi as the locals call it is a great little town.ome visit it.
Thanks and good luck SCOTT go_scottie@hotmail.com
Name: Scott
City, Country: Woolgoolga Australia
Sent: 2.20 AM - 3/12 2002
I reakon you should come visit coffs harbour as we are between brisbane and
sydney and offer the best beaches in the world. We also have the Big Banana and
trust me its worth a look as its a great icon. then 30km norht is woolgoolga
where i live and we have beaches and the indian temple with our on version on
the RAJ MAHAL. Woolgoolga has the largest population of indians outside india
and you wouldnt know it as there arent a billion of them walking around.
Woolgoolga or Woopi as the locals call it is a great little town.ome visit it.
Thanks and good luck SCOTT
Name: Peter Power
City, Country: ppfiteam@primus.com.au
Sent: 1.48 AM - 3/12 2002
go home you freeloader !
Name: Martin
City, Country: Roden, The Netherlands
Sent: 1.38 AM - 3/12 2002
Fran: You made a good point. But, maybe Ramon will do that thing you are
looking for? His project is a challenge for all of us; would you open the door
to a complete stranger?
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 11.17 PM - 3/11 2002
Ramon, by the looks of the message board you have officially landed in
Australia. I have a cousin somewhere in Australia, so I'm trying to get the
word out to give you an invite.
Dana,
Tell your mum to check Ramons site out and some of his reports from all around.
She'll soon realize what a great guy he is, and easy to accomadate.
Munk,
Hows the photography going? And you thought nobody would remember. What's your
favorite, color or Black and White?
To all our new board members from OZ, WELCOME! Keep it pleasant or Ramon will
have his way with you. Hahahah. Take Care, looking forward to hearing from more
of you all.
Name: fran
City, Country: australia
Sent: 10.58 PM - 3/11 2002
I am disappointed fellow Australians won't be so generous to help out our own
homeless people by letting them 'stay for a day'. Then again, it's more
aesthetically pleasing to help anglo saxon's I suppose. Don't get me wrong,
Ramon is on to a good rort, but we should be helping our own first.
Name: Dana
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 10.22 PM - 3/11 2002
Ramon I think you are the greatest most inspiring person, I wish I had the guts
to travel at other peoples expense. I want ot have you stay but my mum said no.
Any way good luck on the rest of your trip!!
Name: Chris
City, Country: Austin, TX USA
Sent: 8.32 PM - 3/11 2002
Ramon, I'm glad to see you have resumed your travels. I missed being able to
read of your adventures. I'm quite an old lady in your book I'm sure, being in
my fifties and with sons your age. I just wish I'd had the internet and your
imagination when I was young like you! Now who knows? Maybe you will inspire
some old babyboomers like me to go have some more adventures! There's only one
thing my motherly self would urge you, and that's to please at least try not to
publicly thumb your nose at anybody's laws. I mean especially the remark about
the hitchhiking. Of course, if something is prohibited by law, you wouldn't
ever think of doing it, now would you (wink wink)? I'm sure you get my point ....
Be safe and continue to have a good time and keep telling good stories so the
rest of us can keep vicariously enjoying your adventures!
Name: Martin
City, Country: Roden, Netherlands
Sent: 5.25 PM - 3/11 2002
W@SP: Who needs a job when you get it all for free?
Cheers Ramon!
Name: W@SP
City, Country: AUSTRALIA
Sent: 4.51 PM - 3/11 2002
HEY MAN U BETTER GET YOUR LIFE TOGETHER !! GET A HAIR CUT AND GET A REAL JOB !!
ONE DAY YOUR WEBSITE MIGHT BE HTTP://WWW.HOWTOGETMURDEREDBYBEINGSTUPID.COM
BE CAREFUL LOTS OF CRAZY PEOPLE OUT THERE
ADIOS AMIGOS - GOODLUCK WITH THE REST OF YOUR TRAVELS
Name: Anne
City, Country: Perth, West Oz :)
Sent: 4.31 PM - 3/11 2002
I think that what you are doing is great and to all the people who are saying
all those aweful things : it makes me ashamed of being an Ozzie, but you must
all be jealous that you didn't think of doing this before Ramon did!!
Good onya Ramon, Enjoy every minute of this GREAT country of ours!!
If you ever get across to the West, you are MOST WELCOME to spend a day or a
week with us!!! Voor niks!!
We wish you safe travelling.
Cheers mate!
Anne :)
Name: Mick
City, Country: Darwin, Australia
Sent: 4.02 PM - 3/11 2002
Excellent !!! you must be having a great time travelling, meeting great
people..
Any chance of coming to Darwin?
Keep up the great travelling bug, keep safe..
Name: Jaimes
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 3.30 PM - 3/11 2002
mate - you are a living legend !!!
if you ever make it across to Perth, I'll buy you a beer ... keep up the great
"work"
cheers!
Name: Chantal
City, Country: Zwolle
Sent: 2.42 PM - 3/11 2002
Don't get homesick!!Because at home they miss you just as much!!!!
Name: Melanie
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Sent: 2.19 PM - 3/11 2002
G'day! I just saw your segment on A Current Affair. I think what you are doing
is unreal. Hope you have a wonderful trip!!!
Name: Ross
City, Country: Brisbane Australia
Sent: 2.05 PM - 3/11 2002
I was surprised and disappointed to read a number of emails from other
Australians criticising Ramon for what he is doing .
This guy is being completely open and honest about what he is doing - no one is
being ripped off or forced to accomodate him if they do not wish to .
Perhaps some of the knockers will realise (when they are old enough to travel
without their parents ??)that reciprocal hospitality is one of the pleasures of
back-packing ie some-one may accomodate you on your travels and you may have
the opportunity to do the same for a fellow traveller .
RAMON:
Hi Ross, thanks for your reply. Fortunately some of the 'knockers' on this
messageboard have been the same person and posted under different names. Good
that I get to see who REALLY posts a message ;-)
Name: lily
City, Country: australia....northern territory
Sent: 1.58 PM - 3/11 2002
g'day ramon...i see you have no invites to the "topend" of oz...i
live in darwin...a stones throw from kakadu etc......you are more than welcome
to pop in, damper is fresh, beer is cold, weather is fine....we may even spot a
croc or three!! it is "wet" season" here at present, so not
really ideal time to visit. if u can hold off 'til after june, you won't be
disappointed...the land of the "never never" has to be an integral part
of any oz experience!!
Name: Bec
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Sent: 1.13 PM - 3/11 2002
Well, i'm sad to say that sometimes i feel ashamed to be the same nationality
as the mindless, closed minded, selfish people on here bagging you. I am proud
of our country and welcome anyone to spend time here. It is a fantastic place
and Australians (most) will treat you with the respect you deserve for having
thought of an idea like this and showing us that it isn't just money that gets
us everywhere... You are a genius!! Just watch how many people follow your lead
(probably some of the people bagging you on here!!!)
Enjoy our country...
Name: Sally
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 12.44 PM - 3/11 2002
Anyone who has anything bad to say is just jealous!! i think youre excellent,
if i could do what youre doing i would do it without a second thought!! hope
you receive the best of hospitality in australia and have fun!
Name: Matt Holme
City, Country: Brisbane, Australia
Sent: 12.33 PM - 3/11 2002
WELL DONE RAMON!
Do not listen to anyone who is bagging you for your excellent idea. They are
obviously jealous, have a second rate job, and just can't stand it that someone
else has thought of a terrific idea. It is obvious that the people who invite
you to stay at their houses are genuinely wanting to meet you. You're not only
giving yourself a great experience, but you're obviously becoming quite a
celebrity. You'll probably make quite a profit from your idea in the future. I
hope you do, because you deserve it for the terrific idea.
And to the people who are giving you crap... I'm sure Ramon is happy with you.
You're visiting his site, and making it very interesting. This means the hits
are increasing... they'll be more publicity, and inturn Ramon can find himself
more sponsors and therefore go on more trips. Well done guys!
Congratulations Ramon, keep it up!
Name: Spencer
City, Country: New Zealand
Sent: 12.11 PM - 3/11 2002
... well Inez, you visited the website so you were obviously affected by the
news article.
Name: Inez
City, Country: Leiden, the Netherlands
Sent: 12.06 PM - 3/11 2002
Gosh...are all these messages because of the item on Channel 9 about Ramon?
Please go and get a life like Munk said. You all have obviously not understood
what Ranon's project is about.. it's pathetic!
Name: Mike
City, Country: Ballarat
Sent: 12.04 PM - 3/11 2002
Well done,
I watched you on Tv. and said I wish I thought of that when I was younger. Keep
up the good work.
Name: Brett
City, Country: New Zealand
Sent: 12.03 PM - 3/11 2002
It seems that some of the poor skippy australian poofs dont like your idea
Ramon, I think its because they are too slow to think of the idea themselves.
Being a country formed by evicted convicts I find their comments about you
being a cheep bastard funny.I on the other hand say well done & good luck
to you!!
Name: Kristy
City, Country: Australia
Sent: 12.02 PM - 3/11 2002
You're a geneous. This idea is great and it is working which is the best thing
about it. I hope you are enjoying your travels. I plan to travel but it is
still impossible for me to do so because I want to achieve my year 12
certificate. ENJOY!!!!
Name: Munk
City, Country: Zwolle
Sent: 11.23 AM - 3/11 2002
Well, well. Some poor people seem to be wasting their precious time, telling
somebody they do not know at all, what they think of him BY TYPING AN ANONYMOUS
POSTING IN A MESSAGEBOARD. Get a life! Ramon certainly has one...
Name: theo the great
City, Country: melb
Sent: 11.06 AM - 3/11 2002
you really sucked in a lot of people.get out of my country and do'nt EVER come
back. you are using people and you deserve to be locked up.you are a lazy
morron,and i hope u get lost for good.get lost and earn you money like us
normal working people then travel the world you scum.
Name: Jack
City, Country: Melbourne
Sent: 10.37 AM - 3/11 2002
The idea is stupid. The concept is dumb. Your website is boring as hell. You
have really sucked in a lot of people. To see the world and have some other
poor bastard pay for it, well all I can say is BRILLIANT. P.S. Who will read
your book - your English is terrible!
Name: Dan
City, Country: QLD
Sent: 10.28 AM - 3/11 2002
Ramon surely Australia is not the only country where you have to pay for
internet time.
You seem to be hung up on this issue of paying for things.poor you .somethings
in life you have to pay for
regards
dan
RAMON:
Fortunately my webproject doesn't rely on people like you Dan, then I'd be
home within a week. And fortunately some people have a sense of humor, you
don't, Dan.
Name: Lynda
City, Country: Gympie, Queensland
Sent: 10.28 AM - 3/11 2002
What a way to see the world. Have a great time in Australia!
Name: Ron
City, Country: Sydney Down Under
Sent: 10.17 AM - 3/11 2002
Hi Ramon
Welcome to Oz
Have a wondefull time and enjoy your stay in Oz.
I put your site on our Dutch website in Oz
www.dutch.net.au
Dutch On-Line Promotions Sydney
Name: Dan
City, Country: Newcastle, Australia
Sent: 10.12 AM - 3/11 2002
Hey Ramon,
Good on ya mate, Anyone who says your a cheap bastard is just gealous that they
didn't think of your idea 1st, Goodluck on ya adventures and take care....
Name: Ken
City, Country: Brisbane Australia
Sent: 9.56 AM - 3/11 2002
When Ramon has finished his trip he can always become a Member Of Parliament as
would have the experience to free load off people just like Members of
Parliament.
Name: Inez
City, Country: Leiden, the Netherlands
Sent: 9.25 AM - 3/11 2002
Hi Ramon,
Great reports, great pics. You even took pics in the hospital! It looks all too
familiar to me.
Enjoy the rest of your trip!
Inez
Name: Evert
City, Country: Wageningen, The Netherlands
Sent: 9.13 AM - 3/11 2002
Hi Ramon,
Congratulations that it is a year ago that you started this project!!!!
Tomorrow, it is exactly a year ago that I read about your project on the dutch
news-website nu.nl http://nu.nl/document?n=27702 . Since then I surfed often to
your website and read most of your reports.
You did not only had the idea for this project, but you also realised it. So I
am very proud on you.
Good luck for the coming months and I will follow you in my heart.
Name: Jill Henderson
City, Country: NZ
Sent: 4.37 AM - 3/11 2002
Hi Ramon,
It certainly was inspiring to meet you on Saturday on the four wheel drive, I
really enjoyed listening to you and learning about your endeavours throughout
the world.
I have always been interested in people from other cultures, I suppose that's
why in the 50's when all the other little girls got blonde blue eyed walkie
talkie dolls for Christmas I ordered a black doll. Then there was the time
spent corresponding with penfriends hence Helen.
Good on you, enjoy yourself. I believe people make their own luck, and you
certainly have!
At this stage we can't offer you a bed, only floor space, as we are full up in
our temporary accommodation, but would love to take you out to dinner
whilst you are in Sydney and show you another side of the city.
Cheers!
Name: Terry Ross
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Sent: 4.35 AM - 3/11 2002
Hello Ramon.
I just finished going through your web page and I'm very impressed at how
thorough you are with details. Your photos are great and add a nice touch. To
have spent just 2 days with you was a fantastic experience and to see the
photos enhances some great memories. It would be great to see you before you
leave Oz, you can contact me if you need a bed and a good meal. Have a great
stay in our marvelous country and thanks again for letting us be a part of your
journey.
Terry....the Channel 9 cameraman.
Name: Angela Oliphant
City, Country: Brisbane
Sent: 1.09 AM - 3/11 2002
Hey there Ramon, we are looking forward to you making your trip up to sunny
Brisbane, there are great places to see including the Croc Hunter.... Be sure
to stop in for a drink or to...
Cheers (mate) Angie :)
Name: Sylvia (past host)
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 6.57 PM - 3/9 2002
Hi Ramon
It is great to be able to check out your daily reports and brilliant pictures
once again as we follow your journey down under! Have lots of fun.
Love
Sylvia and Family xx
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.14 AM - 3/9 2002
Gosh Ramon, welcome back. It was great reading your recent posts and seeing the
photos you take again. Once again, I am hooked and will be checking daily, to
travel with you. :-) We've missed you, but understand the much needed break you
took. When I travel for just a few weeks at a time I am anxious to get home. I
can only imagine how hard this is for you at times, as well as being exciting
and enjoyable and educational.
Take care, and best of luck in Australia. It was wonderful that you had the
opportunity to experience Hong Kong if only for an afternoon. Loved the photos!
Even the ones on the plane! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks again for all you do. You are remarkable!
Cheers,
Joan
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 2.16 AM - 3/9 2002
Hi Ramon,
Great to see you are off on your travels again. Best of luck.
I have a question about the message board sorting. I can't remember how it was
before, I have not checked since you went on vacation. It seems it would be
easier if the messages were in chronological order, versus most recent first.
It makes one have to read from bottom to top, scrolling up instead of the
"natural" scrolling down, reading down.
Just a thought, it seems the most recent should be at the bottom of the lists,
and on the last page. :-) It's hard reading backwards. Is there an option to
sort chronological versus reverse chronological?
Thanks, and Have fun, good luck,
Joan
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 11.04 PM - 3/8 2002
Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!! Ramons Back!
Looking forward to all the reports.
Ramon, I still think it would be cool if you had Gerben write a report every
now and then. Call it something like "Meanwhile, back at the ranch"
by Gerben. Just a thought. Good to see you back. Happy Trails.
Name: Sue
City, Country: California
Sent: 9.19 PM - 3/8 2002
"Off and running"!!! It feels wonderful to be "traveling"
again--thanks to Let Me Stay For A Day! I have even more admiration for you
now, because you took the time to renew your friendships, and to strengthen
your love ties with Irena! A real man listens to his heart and learns how to
balance his life with love, friendships, and adventure! Please take as many
"vacations" as you need and we'll follow you to the ends of the
earth! Many hearts travel with you!
Name: Martin
City, Country: Roden, Netherlands
Sent: 12.28 PM - 3/8 2002
Great reports and pictures, like always!
Did Telstra become a sponsor allready? :-)
I was wondering; since there are a lot of Dutch people or people with Dutch
blood Down Under, did you get invitations by them?
Cheers and happy travels.
Name: me
Sent: 12.00 PM - 3/8 2002
Hope you meet the Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin!
He was in the States a few days ago.
RAMON:
Haha, guess who is back in Australia this week... Contacts are being made!
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 12.15 AM - 3/8 2002
sorry, I forgot: just for curiosity, how did you feel being "on the
road" again after some months?
best wishes, donatella
RAMON:
It feels strange. Suddenly I walked unexpectedly in Hong Kong City and even
more suddenly for my body conditions I was in Sydney. And with the media
hunting me the first week here, it feels I haven't really started yet...
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 12.10 AM - 3/8 2002
hello ramon, I haven't been lookin' at your website for such a long time..at
last now I'm not that busy at university so I've taken a glance at the latest
messageboard. so now it's up to australia? I wish you a good stay there and..
be careful: don't forget the laptop nor the mobile phone..
ciao, donatella
Name: Inez
City, Country: Leiden, the Netherlands
Sent: 1.37 PM - 3/7 2002
Hi Ramon
I can't wait to read and see your reports about your ozzie adventure! And I
hope you didn't cause my lovely friend the shock of her life showing up at her
doorstep armed by camera's! But knowing her she coped perfectly with that.
Strange thing eh, that internet is so expensive in Oz? I mean, it's not exactly
a third world country???
You should go to the hospital library, it's for free there.
RAMON:
Unfortunately public internet is mostly outdated and locked up - as anywhere I
think. A library mostly offers internet only, no word-processing or floppy-disk
drive possibillity... I am just waiting for an answer from Australian's biggest
internet company Telstra.com.au.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.09 AM - 3/7 2002
Hi Gerben
That wine you mentioned, I'll swop. I'll take the French wine, and I'll give
you a good bottle of SA wine. What say U?
To all of Ramon's supporters and fans, I hope to see you all back on the
messageboard again.
Brian
RAMON:
Brian, you know that only you, my friends and me visit this messageboard, haha!
Name: Martin
City, Country: Roden, The Netherlands
Sent: 8.15 PM - 3/6 2002
No reports and pictures yet, i gues he's busy with the media like television,
radio, newspapers :-) Maybe a little jetlag? :-)
Anyhow, i'll be watching this site the coming months and i'll wish you the best
of luck!
Cheers mate!
RAMON:
Hi Martin!It took me quite a while to get from Amsterdam to Australia and I
arrived Wednesday morning with an enormous jetlag. Indeed, the television
(Channel 9) was following me the first days and now I am going for a good days
rest.
The reports are written and the photos ready, but one fun thing: Australians
know NO FREE INTERNET PROVIDERS. They have to pay for their account, pay per
minute and even for the ammount of space they up- or download!
Strange country, but I am sure I'll get my stuff online soon. . .
Name: Janske
City, Country: Bergeijk, Netherlands
Sent: 6.38 PM - 3/6 2002
So he's gone... Some people thought it would never happen others will miss
him... Fact is that a remarkable person has left and I don't have any doubts
that he'll return... We'll follow him on his tour through Australia,wish the
Australians a lot of fun (and strength ;) !!) and meet again, sometime,
somewhere!
Name: Gerben
City, Country: Netherlands, Zwolle
Sent: 10.27 AM - 3/6 2002
And he's going, going, gone...
He almost forgot his passport. I'll bet you for a good bottle of wine that
he'll loose his laptop and mobile somewhere along the way!
RAMON:
Hey Gerben, that bet: is that between you and me or between you and
everybody who reads this website? It will cost you quite some bottles of good
French wine, my friend ;-)
Name: Fabian
City, Country: Pembroke, Malta
Sent: 1.03 AM - 3/6 2002
Hello Ramon
I just read about your adventure in a magazine and decided to visit your site.
It seems imoresive that you have managed to achieve so much in such a short
time and at no expense at all. Hope you'll include Malta in your trip.
Name: Juan Carlos
City, Country: Margarita Island, Venezuela
Sent: 8.57 PM - 3/4 2002
I liked your website, Ramon... i think your website can help to me and other
persons for to go to other countries. Continue your fantastic advertures...
Juan
Carlos from a venezuelan paradise... Margarita
Island
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 3.36 PM - 3/4 2002
Can't wait to check your site again every day for updates on your adventures!
Good luck!!!!
Name: Brian
City, Country: South Africa
Sent: 6.14 AM - 3/4 2002
Bon voyage, Ramon.
I wish you all the best, and may you always remember Irena. Munk, I'm proud
that you chose wine from my small part of this huge world. It is indeed the
best.
Now the messageboard will be filled with contributions from all your web friends
again.
Do what you do best, Ramon, we are all behind you.
hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Susan
City, Country: Seattle, WA
Sent: 10.00 PM - 3/3 2002
You are an amazing inspirational person. I am looking forward to your Aussie
adventures. Great that you have found Irena to share this experience with.
Take care and have fun down under!
Name: Munk
City, Country: Zwolle
Sent: 8.06 PM - 3/3 2002
It's the evening before the take off of Ramon's second leg of the trip that
seems to have gained him a certain Internet fame. Irena's, who you may remember
from the Barcelona Christmas report, is on her way to the army barracks in
Breda again after she said goodbye to Ramon, who gavce her a boomerang as a
symbol he would be back. Gerben is on his way over here from his parents in
Nijmegen, where he and Mirjam have had a pleasant and peaceful day. Yes, they
indeed fell in love (at last!). We'll have a very nice and probably South
African wine tonight and bid him farewell for the next few months. Undoubtedly
we'll meet again, proably in a city in Southern Europe again. We'll miss him.
And we all wish you take care of him down under! He deserves it...
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver, USA
Sent: 10.13 AM - 3/3 2002
Hi!! Good luck in Oz, I think you will love the people and be close to
FIJI!!!!!
:)
Name: Sharlini
City, Country: Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
Sent: 9.54 AM - 3/1 2002
Hi Ramon,
This is my third posting attempt. For some strange reason, while typing out my
post using Opera, the message board disappears and I go back to your main page.
Anyway, I'm back with IE. Great that you're off to Australia in a few days! I
guess this means that I don't have to wait years before you reach this part of
the world. =) Have a safe, comfortable trip (don't forget to take long walks on
the plane to avoid DVT) and hope to hear about your adventures again!
Donatella, here's a belated 'buon compleanno!' to you. You share your birthday
with my brother. =)
Oh, and does anybody know how long you have to roast cocoa seeds to make chocolate?
Thanks!
Regards,
Sharlini
p/s: I noticed IE trying to go back to your main page too....hit the Stop
button at the right time. Perhaps that's why there hasn't been many posters in
the past few days?
RAMON:
Hi Sharlini, thanks for your writing. The guestbook will stay an external
service to my website, say I can't always depend on a great service unless I
pay for it ;-)
But I noticed that everything works, of course things can be different any
time. But that's life all about...
Name: Sylvia (past host)
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 10.17 PM - 2/26 2002
Hi Ramon
Just to wish you all the best for your trip down under. I am looking forward to
checking out your daily reports once more. Love to you and Irena.
Lots of love
Sylvia and Family xxx
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 8.23 PM - 2/26 2002
Looking forward to your down under journey. Happy Trails.
Name: Arnoud
City, Country: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Sent: 6.44 PM - 2/26 2002
Have a very nice and safe trip, Ramon! I'll be watching you ;-)
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.31 AM - 2/25 2002
Hi Donatella
Just a short note to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I hope you have a wonderful day, and
everything happens as you want it to happen.
Brian
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.29 AM - 2/25 2002
Hi Ramon
I am looking forward to seeing your reports from 04 March to see what
transpires with you in Oz. It should be interesting.
Watching with eager antici......PAtion.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Rita
City, Country: Den Haag- Nederland
Sent: 4.23 PM - 2/22 2002
Dear Ramon-Fantastic that you and Irena are lovers I hope you will be together
for ever ! Do not let her go , so keep in touch with her when you are on the
move .
I wish you both lot's of luck !
Name: Simon Darling
City, Country: London, United Kingdom
Sent: 3.10 PM - 2/22 2002
Ramon, i hope you realise you are a revolution and inspiration for millions of
your generation.
i LOVE the concept of reaching out to the world and letting it come back with
generosity.
You write wonderfully empathetically. You will inspire many many with a book
when you're ready.
Name: Petra Sabjan
City, Country: Velika Gorica, Croatia
Sent: 1.26 PM - 2/22 2002
I just wanted to wish you a safe trip to Australia.
Enjoy yourself and have a great time.
And take care, off course.
Name: donatella
City, Country: milano, italy
Sent: 8.03 PM - 2/21 2002
hello ramon! it's great to read that you got reloaded and you' re starting a
new adventure. in a certain way, you're starting it on the 25th, the day of my
birthday.. it's senseless, but I wish it could bring you further luck, if
possible! now I go back to my book ("diritto penitenziario".. it sounds
like "the law in italian jails"..). enjoy your days at home before
leaving!! I'm looking forward to read some news about your "odissea".
my best wishes,
ciao, donatella
Name: Connie
City, Country: USA
Sent: 2.52 AM - 2/20 2002
Ramon,
So happy to hear you will be traveling again. Australia is an excellent choice.
Wonderful country and people. I'm sure you will had loads of hosts. Looking
forward to your reports and pictures. Wishing you all the best and be safe.
Peace.
Name: Coralie
City, Country: England
Sent: 8.46 PM - 2/14 2002
Hi Ramon
wowow Australia !! my Dave lived in Perth before he met me all those many moons
ago .....I really look forward to seeing where you are going .....what great
memoirs for your book/film!
take care......ps we have a new grandson now ...named Bradley ......3 weeks old
!
((Hugs))
Coralie
Name: Annemarie
City, Country: zwolle, The Netherlands
Sent: 11.54 AM - 2/14 2002
Hey ramon
Finally going to OZ!! Great to hear that, I'll be leaving to go too but not
until the second of august. I'll send you some more places to stay at in south
australia though!
Hope to talk to you before you leave!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.41 AM - 2/14 2002
Hi Ramon
It's really great to hear that you are going to move again. Excellent news
indeed. I hope the Oz folk are going to be as hospitable as the South Africans
were. And, when they try to get you to support them in rugby, cricket, or
anything else, please remember that SA is the only country to support. And the
Stormers is the Super 12 team! :-)
Keep strong, Ramon, and don't let the likes of Deidre in Ireland get to you.
People that talk like that are possibly jealous that they didn't think of the
idea before you did.
You are laerning about life in a way that most of us have no clue about. We
just plod along, and you are making the most of it.
Keep strong, and always remember Irena, she seems to be your soulmate. I truly
hope that your romance lives long, you deserve a lady like Irena.
To quote John Lennon (I hope I get this right!), "Life is what happens
when you're busy making other plans.". So long you actually do something,
and don't just plan to do it, you are living. I wonder if Deidre understands
this...
Keep strong, Ramon, and your loyal fans will keep supporting you.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 7.21 PM - 2/12 2002
Hi RS, glad you're still going to continue, but whatever you decide, it'll be
the right choice. It's your life, your project and you're the one who decides
if it continues or not. TV shows can go off the air, but you always have the
memories and fantastic reruns. PS, yes, the site looks great!
Name: abass diop
City, Country: Dakar
Sent: 2.19 PM - 2/12 2002
I hold you in high esteem and I appreciate the way you move on.I suggest you to
keep on organizing your projects and I hope your desires to be
realized.Everything will be all right just be courageous!
Name: Michel
City, Country: Quebec
Sent: 8.04 PM - 2/11 2002
A small note. Your idea is equivalent to the Pet Rock, several years ago.
Someone made millions selling rocks. Gloriously simple and highly effective,
Brilliant. Congratulations.
Name: Acadia
City, Country: maine, USA
Sent: 1.45 AM - 2/11 2002
Wow, Deirdre, pretty harsh.
Who said Ramon gave up his journey? All indications thus far have pointed
toward a restart of his travelling fairly soon. I'm sure the whole thing did
not quite go as Ramon and his team thought it would and they are spending time
rethinking some aspects of the project. (a bit of speculation there) If his log
kept you interested, then how could it have possibly been a waste of time?
If for any reason Ramon does not go back on the road, then I still thank him
for sharing his wonderful experiences on the web site.
RAMON:
History continues: I just don't seem to be able to go along with the
Irish... HAHA!
But, thanks, Acadia, you are writing the right thing. Maybe Deidre is also one
of those who complain at the TV-stations when her much loved TV-show is off-air
for a season. She'll be telling all those TV-producers to GROW UP, because it
isn't fair.
And, fortunately I still have a life next to traveling around through this
website. And I just don't feel like writing about it that much - at the moment.
But things are progressing. My backup team and me are working on different
plans so I can hit the road again. But this time a bit better.
Professional surfers may notice some changes in the website lately (everything
is in PHP) and there will be some more to come.
Become a member of the mailinglist to stay up to date with the latest
information, because I feel there is a mailing coming up very soon...
Name: Deirdre
City, Country: Ireland
Sent: 12.48 PM - 2/10 2002
RamonYou lasted 8 months, had an easy ride satying in hotels and such. Now you
give up so easily, call yourself a backpacker. I am so sorry i followed your
trip , it has wasted so much of my time and energy. You said you were going to
travel for 4 years. Wake up and smell the coffee, get a job like the rest of us
and GROW UP!!
Name: Andy White
City, Country: Bournemouth, England
Sent: 8.22 PM - 2/8 2002
Missing reading of your adventures. But remember that in life many things catch
the eye and few things catch the heart. Follow your heart and if Irena fills
your heart with joy then make the time for her as it will be worth it! Looking
forward to reading more of your reports soon!
Take care,
Andy
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 7.59 PM - 2/7 2002
Hi Ramon
When are you planning to get going again and where will it be? Is your romance
still going strong?
Good Luck!
Sylvia
RAMON:
I will be going on my leave again very soon, it all depends on a sponsor
that will get me 'there'.
The romance is going great, Irena is a great lady.
You can expect a new update on the mailinglist next week.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 9.06 PM - 2/3 2002
Ramon, Thanks for revealing Mister Iran to us. It seems some of us are always
coming to say sorry for the sheer stupidity of fellow countrymen. It is
probably this same ignorance that has gotten us in the situation that we're in.
Keep up the good work. Looking forward to your continued travels.
Name: Sharlini
City, Country: Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
Sent: 5.35 PM - 2/1 2002
Hey Ramon!
How's it going? It would be really cool if you could visit this part of the
world, especially during Chinese New Year (Feb 12 & 13). You'd be brought
to open houses and you'd be stuffed with lots of food! Malaysia is all about
food! =)
Sharlini
Name: Martine
City, Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 1.03 AM - 1/31 2002
Ramon, congratulations with winning the DutchBloggies 2002 with the "Best
Initiative of the Year"! Keep up the good work!
Name: Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani
City, Country: Axis of evil, Iran
Sent: 11.29 PM - 1/30 2002
Ramon please visit us. We feed you lamb stew.
We have many visitors coming from America soon.
RAMON:
Strange how Americans make fun of themselves. Mister from Iran, strange how
you surf on a connection of Cox Communications, based in Atlanta, Georgia (US),
not??? An e-mail has been sent out to them about your action...
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 5.56 AM - 1/29 2002
Hi Ramon
Just in case you thought we'd given up on you, we haven't. Your loyal and
faithful fans still check up on your web page, not as often, but we still do
visit.
There must be some thoughts going through your mind about whether or not your
lovely lady will accompany you in chapter two of the Letmestayforaday.com
adventure. And you say that you're going half way around the world? Indonesia? Oz? Malaysia? Singapore? Hmmmm...
This will understandably be a huge decision, so we don't mind if you need some
time to work it out. It's almost like having a family, I s'pose. You have to
consider all involved before you just decide to go somewhere.
Quality takes time, and all of us, fans, followers, back-up, sponsors, and you,
all appreciate a good quality project. So, we are happy to wait.
I'll be watching carefully...
sala kahle
Brian
RAMON:
Don't worry, Brian, I will be on the road very soon. And of course, without
Irena, because it's LetMEstayforaday and I just can't create myself a family
and travel. This is a great project that I will finish anyway.
Fortunately Irena and I go along very very good and also she has her ambitions.
While she does her things, I'll do mine and we'll keep very close contact.
Wherever I might go, she might come over for a break... :-)
Name: Marc
City, Country: Barcelona Spain
Sent: 1.57 PM - 1/27 2002
Hi Ramon!how are you?
today i have seen your web on Tv and i decided to visit your web.I thing that
your travell is amazing, have you ben i barcelona?I hope it will like you, the
people is very fun and the weather is really good!!!
I hope you will visit Gaudi's houses, the sagrada familia and Macba
I Wish you the best!!good luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Name: Helena El Masri
City, Country: UK
Sent: 4.53 PM - 1/26 2002
Hi Ramon,
As promissed now and then I check on your progress and I was very happy to
learn you are in love.
Follow your heart always and you will be happy!
Helena
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 7.21 AM - 1/25 2002
Hi Ramon! Glad to see you are still kickin' it. I am fantastically happy for
you. I hope your next leg of your trip will be as or even more successful as
the first and that all your dreams come true.
MJ
Name: Erwan
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 8.09 PM - 1/24 2002
Do u guys think Ramon should continue his travels where they stopped (Spain) or
somewhere else ?
If somewehe else, where would you want him to go ? (most likely this should
have to be some yet unvisited European country)
RAMON:
Honestly I can say that I had a very difficult time in Spain. The
media>invitations-process didn't work out like in the other countries I've
visited. But I can always go back and continue a southern Europe tour.
At this moment I am planning to get out of Europe again and make a long flight
half around the world. But where? I don't know yet. But sponsors can tell me...
Name: Liam
City, Country: United Kingdom
Sent: 1.34 PM - 1/24 2002
Ramon,
You have proven your point with your journey to date. I appreciate the stresses
you must have been through and perhaps you sould remould the project to simply
visit each remaining country using a selection of the the submitted addresses
(dare I say for more than one day!). You will still be the first to navigate
the globe through this media and you might even hold on to your sanity
Name: alex cain
City, Country: milledgeville georgia USA
Sent: 7.31 AM - 1/20 2002
So many places, so much time. You should at least put a big toe in the U.S.
before you end this.
Name: James
City, Country: Arnold, CA
Sent: 6.41 AM - 1/20 2002
Enjoyed Ramon alternates writing about the Christmas in Barcelona, but more
about the view of Ramon from the outside. A different perspective. We learn
about you Ramon from your writing, but we now have some inside ideas about you
from your friends. Thanks. Thanks also for the continued sunset photos. the
reflection in the windows was a nice twist on the theme.
James
Name: Jeanine
City, Country: Grahamstown, South Africa
Sent: 2.22 PM - 1/19 2002
Well ... glad to see you visit your own site during your break! :-) Geesh Ramon
and the dutch site is also taking a break, there's absolutely nothing for me to
do! :-) So .... I just hang around in empty space :-) How are you doing,
enjoying your break back home in the company of family and friends and of
course the beautiful Irena? I'm so happy for you, just what you needed ... have
biiiiig fun, you of all people deserve that.
Go well ... and am looking forward to continue being your biggest fan :-)
Name: Jeanine
City, Country: Grahamstown, South Africa
Sent: 9.58 PM - 1/18 2002
So .... Ramon is taking a break and found love too with a gorgeous lady ...
what do we do in the mean time? Any suggestions? Or have all the Ramon
followers taken a break too? :-)
RAMON:
Go ahead, Jeanine! You deserve a break too... You even had me visiting your
place in SA! :-)
Name: Munk
City, Country: Zwolle
Sent: 1.48 PM - 1/16 2002
Hi Dorion,
No, Ramon has not given up, that's for sure. And last year is only sixteen days
ago, by the way. He's having a well-earned period of rest and relaxation after
hurrying from place to place for seven months. I was at his place only
yesterday, and believe me, he needed a break to continue the LetMeStayForADay
adventure the way he wants to: enthousiastic, optimistic and making the most of
it for not only himself, but most of all the people worldwide who read his
daily reports. In short: Ramon has certainly not given up, he's reloading for
the second part of his journeys.
RAMON:
Thanks Munk, for the clearification. Dorion, please know I have the latest
news about LetMeStayForADay.com posted on the frontpage of this
website and I keep people up to date through the mailinglist.
Name: Dorion Ozykowski
City, Country: Rainy River,Ontario,Canada
Sent: 12.30 PM - 1/16 2002
Was wonderin'whether Ramon has given up?Nothin'posted,since LAST year,and I get
the feelin'that he's homesick,and no longer wants to continue.Am i right??
Name: Henk
City, Country: Zwolle
Sent: 9.58 AM - 1/15 2002
Nice, so will Zwolle be a famous place in the World!!!
Name: miranda
City, Country: china wuhan
Sent: 9.18 AM - 1/12 2002
well i am a high school student now,so i can't offer u a free trip to my
city.but if u come here,i will be ur tour guide.and i want to do the same thing
as u one day.
Name: Marjolein
City, Country: Holland
Sent: 9.09 PM - 1/11 2002
I just discovered this site today and I totally loved the entire concept!
Ramon, you are what we in Holland call een kei. A rock (of course you know what
it means just translating for the rest of the people on the post) keep going
with the flow and updating the site. Good luck with your travels! Groetjes!
Marjolein
Name: Zoki
City, Country: Yugoslavia (USA now)
Sent: 10.49 AM - 1/11 2002
Oh how wonderful Christmas you had. I am glad you fell in love with her. Love
is what makes us happy and what keeps this world moving.
See ya around
Zoran
Name: Connie
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.57 AM - 1/10 2002
Ramon,
Way to go. Glad to hear you are so happy & in love. Enjoy your R&R and
I look forward to reading some updates from time to time. Take care and all the
best for a wonderful, happy, healthy 2002!!!
Name: kyongmi Chong
City, Country: Korea
Sent: 1.51 PM - 1/9 2002
Hi.Ramon
Your christmas stories are so moving:)
Have a good relax and Keeping going,,
Name: Allen
City, Country: San Jose, California, USA
Sent: 3.46 AM - 1/9 2002
When do you plan on doing the States, more precisely, the West Coast?
Name: donatella gazzoni
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 10.17 PM - 1/8 2002
Hi Ramon, at last I've read your latest news, and I've known that you're givin'
up this adventure for a few time. Although I ain't one of your "personal
friends", but I'd like to say that you've taken the right decision (this
is just my opinion..): of course, following by the web someone who's trippin'
around in such a particular conditions is interesting, and you become curious
and curious (as you were watchin' a film, or something like that). But, above
all, this is YOUR life and nobody could be disappointed because you decide
about it (it's only up to you). I've followed your experience so far as you
were a kind of "younger brother" (I'm 26, so we're almost the same
age), and I'll keep on givin' a glance at this site now & then. I hope to
find some news about you, but mostly I wish you good luck (with your newborn
"love affair" - hope you've found your twin soul - and with your
life!!). Relax and enjoy the moment. My best wishes and greetings!! CIAO,
Donatella
Name: annemarie tissen
City, Country: alford, schotland
Sent: 7.19 PM - 1/8 2002
Irena, lucky girl!!
Take care for the both of you.
Annemarie
Name: Karen
City, Country: London
Sent: 12.12 PM - 1/8 2002
Ramon, I think you made the right decision to take some time off and reflect on
all that has happened in the last 7,5 months. Good luck with your new love and
I will definetely be checking your site every now and then to see what you are
up to!
Name: Laurens
City, Country: Utrecht, The Netherlands
Sent: 11.40 AM - 1/8 2002
Hi Ramon!
I enjoyed reading your daily reports very much and I will sure miss them. But I
hope you will have a great time back home. And I think I can speak for all of
us if I say we all hope to hear from you soon again!
Name: L.S.O.M.
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 9.23 AM - 1/8 2002
Ramon dear,
Its 2002! It takes 2 to make any relationship a success and one a failure. May
the 9 fruits of that spirit be with you too. Bless you young man.
RAMON:
Hi LSOM. From the beginning I have problems understanding you, but this time
I tried to get some help. Unfortunately the lady at my local fruitshop also
didn't know anything about 9 spirits fruits, so the just gave me a pineapple. I
hope that might help out too....
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 7.02 AM - 1/8 2002
Back again...
True friends are hard to find. I've just read the Christmas reports, and, well,
there is a reflection of true friendship.
When Ramon was on the phone to his friends while he was at my place, I could
see that these people were special to him. From the last few reports, this has
become incredibly clear.
Ramon, you and your backup team are the epitome of friendship. It always pleases
me to see people in the company of those dear to them.
Friendship: A relationship of mutual love, trust, and respect.
Brian
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.19 AM - 1/8 2002
Hi Ramon
Mmmmmm, free, what was it you said at my place? (Just kidding with you!) :-)
Congrats, mate! You are one ahead of me. It is great to see that you have met
someone special, and I really hope that all works out nicely for you two.
Remember, you are the most important person in your life, and if this romance
moves into something serious enough, then you may have to call it on your
project. Do what is best for you, and don't break her heart just to continue.
Life is a mysterious thing that bowls curved balls all the time. A good man is
one who can adapt to his changing environment and accept those curved balls at
a moment's notice.
All the best, Ramon, we are all behind you.
Brian
Name: Sieto van der Heide
City, Country: Leeuwarden, Nehterlands
Sent: 2.17 PM - 1/7 2002
Hello Ramon,
Great to see you're taking a vacation. I think everybody sees you flying around
the world thinking it's an 'all-time-holiday' thing, but I can imagine you need
a break too, once in a while.
I'll look forward to the time when you do start traveling again, but until
then; enjoy your time off!
Sieto van der Heide, aka 'var' in #letmestayforaday
Name: toeli
City, Country: los angeles
Sent: 7.40 AM - 1/7 2002
heard about you on npr. good story. coming to la anytime soon?
Name: Journo Jim
City, Country: Rostrevor, Northern Ireland
Sent: 8.10 PM - 1/5 2002
To Ramon (and all your online buddies),
Happy holidays and a wonderful New Year.
Ramon, you were my second favourite house guest in 2001 (after my daughter!)
and I look forward to catching up with you somewhere in 2002. Good to hear that
you're in love too. It may be difficult to resume travelling with l'amour in
your heart, but it is good for you. I'm hoping all works out well! You are the
Guardian's net personality of the year, by the way. It was announced in today's
paper.
Catch you later, Jim.
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 7.25 PM - 1/5 2002
hi ramon! first of all.. HAPPY NEW YEAR! I haven't been looking at your website
lately (I'm quite busy whit an exam at university.. when will it finish at
all?..) and now I was surfing and I read this marvellous news: you've found
someone to share your experience with! of course, I wish you all the best for
your story, I think it'll give you new (precious!) energies and make more
enjoyable your trip. have fun!! CIAO, donatella
Name: Sylvia (ex-host)
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 6.07 PM - 1/5 2002
Ramon
I have just had a look at your recent pictures and Irena looks gorgeous! I
especially like the 'artistic' black/white close up of her on Dec 27, also the
colour picture of her in the Santa hat.
I can't wait for the next instalment since she has flown back to be with you.
Is she going to accompany you on your travels? Good Luck to both of you.
Name: Jasper
City, Country: The Natherlands...
Sent: 5.48 PM - 1/5 2002
Start a new project with your love...
"Let us stay for a day".com
Have fun! :)
Name: Jackie
City, Country: Ohio, USA
Sent: 12.26 AM - 1/5 2002
She is gorgeous Ramon and it will be time for you to settle down by the time
you finish this trip. Good luck! Now what will you do? Have her come visit
every now and then" Absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Jackie
Name: Sandi
City, Country: Canada
Sent: 10.27 PM - 1/4 2002
Happy New Year to All!
. . . and congratulations, Ramon, for starting the new year "in
love"! She looks like a very beautiful girl. I wish you all the best -
enjoy for as long as it lasts!
I've been checking this website after the holiday season and was pleasantly
surprised to see that Gerben was kind enough to keep us updated - thank you so
much for your efforts! I hate to admit it, but I was feeling a little lost
without my daily "fix". I've been following your travels since the
beginning, and feel like I've come to know you and your many hosts.
I look forward to see what the new year will bring. Continued good luck in your
travels!
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 10.01 PM - 1/4 2002
Ramon
What exactly do you mean by "I fell in love"? Is it temporary or a
permanent thing? How do you know it is love? Did you know her before? If it is
real love, are you going to take Irena with you for the rest of your travels?
Name: Han de Man
City, Country: zwolle, netherlands
Sent: 4.18 PM - 1/3 2002
ill want to say its nice to read your name in the newspapers back home in
zwolle. and i want to give the best wishes from HAN & DAWN + hear you soon!
Name: Nico
City, Country: Holland
Sent: 10.29 AM - 1/3 2002
Hi Ramon,
In today's newspaper (de Zwolsche Courant) is an article about you!
I got interested, and wanted to take a look at your site...
It's al way cool!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.22 AM - 1/3 2002
Hi all
Here's wishing each of you the best of the best for 2002. Ramon, keep up the
incredible job you are doing.
Donatella, thanks for your message, it is appreciated. Maybe you are another
kind person on The Messageboard.
Now, I'll start the slow process of catching up with all the reports I've
missed in the last few weeks. It'll take a while, methinks. Been on holiday,
you see...
Keep well, each of you
Brian
Name: Sandra
City, Country: Holland
Sent: 10.01 PM - 1/2 2002
Hi Ramon,
I just wanted to let you know that I admire what you are doing. I am
adventurous as well and when I read all this I am kind of jealous. Keep up the
good work and enjoy everything!
Sandra
Name: Richard Threehouse
City, Country: Bay City Mi USA
Sent: 9.46 PM - 1/2 2002
Just working on genealogy of my last lame Threehouse / Destroismaisons And ran
a cross this page and so far what I seen it good If you ever need help in
Michagin you can call on me
Dick Bay City Mi USA
Name: Gustavo
City, Country: Ushuaia, Argentina
Sent: 3.54 PM - 1/2 2002
If you come to visit Argentina and you come to patagonia, see visit to me in
ushuaia, I have cybercafe that will be to your disposition without cost so that
you can respond your messages
Happy New Year!
Gustavo
Name: Pam DeMonte
City, Country: Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
Sent: 7.44 PM - 1/1 2002
I may be a bit behind the others, but I do wish one and all a very happy New
Year.
Health and Happiness for the year 2002, especially to you Ramon. How and where
did you see in the new year?
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA, USA
Sent: 12.28 AM - 1/1 2002
Ramon and everyone else on the message board. Wishing you all the happiest of
the New Year to come. Take Care.
Bret
Name: Marc Eigner
City, Country: Holland
Sent: 8.05 PM - 12/31 2001
Ramon,
Here one of a unknown relative from Holland, I haven't seen you for a while and
actually this is the first time I'm visiting your website. Thing looking OK
from my point of view. Keep on going and I want to wish you a very happy and
more prospective 2002, secondly you get the king regards from Lisette (my
wife).
See and keep going on.
Regards Marc Eigner
Name: Loran
City, Country: Holland
Sent: 7.19 PM - 12/31 2001
Everyone, all over the world:
HAPPY NEW YEAR.
Wish you all the best.
In afection
Loran
Name: Coralie
City, Country: ENGLAND
Sent: 5.20 PM - 12/31 2001
Well , Ramon what a year ......so much has gone on this year September 11th ..I
pray for you all...and wish you ALL a Very Happy New Year 2002 !!wonder what
the next year will bring ? perhaps we should have a prophecy board!
much love
coralie
Name: Michael
City, Country: Seattle, USA
Sent: 4.19 PM - 12/31 2001
Sylvia,
You can find "The Doors Award 2001" news article at:
http://www.sunday-times.co.uk/article/0,,9015-2001584866,00.html
But you will need a Sunday Times password.
Also the full text of the article is shown in the graphic
on this site (main page).
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 1.27 PM - 12/31 2001
Where can we read about "The Doors Award 2001" Web personality of the
year please?
Name: xiaoting wang
City, Country: xi'an China
Sent: 11.57 PM - 12/30 2001
I read about you in a chinese maganize ,
How amazing you are.
Welcome to China someday.
Name: Heather
City, Country: Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
Sent: 10.23 PM - 12/30 2001
I read about your website in a weekly publication in our city...Amazing!!
Sounds like you are having fun!!
Have a Happy New Year where ever you may be!!
Name: Sylvia (past host)
City, Country: North Berwick
Sent: 8.32 PM - 12/30 2001
Message for Fraser McIntosh: If you look back over the "online
reports" to July 13 you will see that Ramon was in Edinburgh where you
live and North Berwick which is not far away! He was great company and 'to stay
for a day' wasn't long enough!
Name: fraser mcintosh
City, Country: edinburgh, scotland
Sent: 3.53 PM - 12/30 2001
what a brilliant idea; i only just read about your site today in the papers so
felt i had to have a look. no doubt you will meet many kind and good people all
over the world - -nice one.
Name: Shiva
City, Country: Tehran, Iran
Sent: 4.41 PM - 12/28 2001
Hi Everybody,
I really enjoy looking at Ramon's adventures everyday.
Good job Ramon. It's just perfect. I am in London now but when I get back to
Iran I will invite you. I am sure lots of Iranian are looking forward to see
you and also I am sure that you will enjoy your stay in Iran.
All the best and have a perfect new year,
Shiva
Name: Shiva
City, Country: Tehran, Iran
Sent: 4.40 PM - 12/28 2001
Hi Everybody,
I really enjoy looking at Ramon's adventures everyday.
Good job Ramon. It's just perfect. I am in London now but when I get back to
Iran I will invite you. I am sure lots of Iranian are looking forward to see
you and also I am sure that you will enjoy your stay in Iran.
All the best and have a perfect new year,
Shiva
Name: Esmeralda
City, Country: México
Sent: 1.12 AM - 12/26 2001
Happy New Year !!
I'll wait for u here. You'll love Méxican food...
Name: duby
City, Country: zeelim, israel
Sent: 3.04 PM - 12/25 2001
merry cristmas to you ramon, and for all.
waiting for your visit in our unpossible country.
have a wonderful holiday.
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 6.06 AM - 12/25 2001
Merry Christmas to all, to the less fortunate, to families that have lost loved
ones anywhere in the world, to those that have pain or suffering...let the ones
that are fortunate extend yourself...and also to anyone this message reaches,
have a safe and wonderful holiday season.
:)
Name: donatella
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 2.17 PM - 12/24 2001
to Brian (from South Africa): MERRY CHRISTMAS to you, as well!!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 11.24 AM - 12/24 2001
Hi all
Yep, still in Cape Town on holiday, and again at an internet cafe (with a
painfully slow connection...).
To all of Ramon's followers, to all his fans, notably Tom whose wise and kind
words grace this site, to alll of Ramon's support team, and to Ramon as well,
have a wonderful Christmas if you are celebrating it. May 2002 bring all that
is good and peaceful to each of you. Ramon, we will continue to follow and
support you.
Regards
Brian
Name: Simona
City, Country: Ancona, Italy
Sent: 11.31 PM - 12/23 2001
Merry Christmas! May Jesus bring to all of you peace and love.
Name: Helena (ex-hostess in UK)
City, Country: Shoreham by Sea
Sent: 11.20 PM - 12/21 2001
Late Happy Birthday, which I only realised by reading the last messages. So
here's my message to you:
“You are never given a wish
without also being given the
power to make it true.
You may have to work for it, however.”
Richard Bach “Illusions”
That 2002 brings you health and that your dreams may keep coming true.
Helena, Iman and Zane
Name: Anja
City, Country: Duesseldorf, Germany
Sent: 10.11 AM - 12/21 2001
dear ramon,
a bit late but nonetheless straight from my heart:
happy birthday to you
Name: donatella gazzoni
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 12.13 AM - 12/21 2001
sorry for being late, but.. happy birthday!! I sent you an e-card. I hope your
stay in spain is goin' on at the best. I wish you well, enjoy the spanish
groove.
CIAO! donatella
Name: Nelmarie (ex host)
City, Country: Bredasdorp, SOUTH AFRICA
Sent: 9.22 PM - 12/20 2001
HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAMON!!!!!!!! (I hope you got new hiking shoes) Safe travels...
bye x
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 5.27 PM - 12/20 2001
Happy birthday!!! Hope you are having a great timeand that you will enjoy your
2 weeks holiday!
Name: Gerben
City, Country: Zwolle, The Netherlands
Sent: 3.31 PM - 12/20 2001
Happy Birthday Ramon. Damn, you're ageing! You're a big boy now ;-). See you
Sunday...
Name: Marc Meij
City, Country: Barcelona
Sent: 3.12 PM - 12/20 2001
Ramon!
Nice story in El Pais, good picture! I read you'll be in Barcelona around
Christmas, and I heard from Bas van. D. that they will come as well. I am happy
you already got shelter, but if you need anything, mail me.
Marc.
P.S. Happy birthday, I got my birthday tomorrow...
Name: annemarie
City, Country: zwolle
Sent: 1.55 PM - 12/20 2001
Happy Birthday Mones!! I'll have a drink on you tonight! Hope you have a nice
day. stay in touch ok!?
see ya!
Name: Jeanine
City, Country: Grahamstown, South Africa
Sent: 1.20 PM - 12/20 2001
HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAMON AND ETIENNE!!
Have a great day and a super year ahead of you.
Keep well ...
Name: Munk
City, Country: Zwolle, Ramon's home town
Sent: 12.18 PM - 12/20 2001
Hey Ramon,
One year older, one year wiser. Any grey hairs yet? :) HAPPY BIRTHDAY! See you
soon...
Name: Bart VDC
City, Country: Knokke-Heist, Belgium
Sent: 10.34 AM - 12/20 2001
Hi Ramon,
I've needed 2 weeks to read all the contents in your site and just in time to
wish you a happy birthday.
This is such a typical Dutch idea, it would be impossible for a belgian to
create an idea like that because we don't have such a big mouth and aren't so
extravert like you guys do. Hope you have a fine time partying through the end
of year period.
Cheers
Bart
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 10.24 AM - 12/20 2001
Hi Tom
Yep, you are quite right. Thanks for those positive words. I agree with you. I
believe what you say, but I had to warn Ramon that my cooking can improve.
Hey, I'm alive, and it is not thanks to take outs! Can't afford them. But
thanks anyway. You can read more about me as soon as birthday boy has a bit of
time (hint to his hosts...) to update the missing reports.
Sala kahle (means stay well in Zulu)
Brian
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 10.21 AM - 12/20 2001
Hi Ramon
Greetings from a warm, sunny, and windy Cape Town. Yep, I'm on holiday in CT
for two weeks or so. Sitting at an Internet Cafe, just to say a great huge
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you. I hope that Spain is treating you well, I'll read the
reports when I get back to work next year.
May you have a truly great day, and keep warm in that freezing part of the
world. I hear the Spaniards are warm people, so you should be fine.
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Salomé
City, Country: Cape Town, South Africa
Sent: 10.13 AM - 12/20 2001
H*A*P*P*Y B*I*R*T*H*D*A*Y !!
Have a fantastic year with lost of love & light.
Still reading your reports everyday and loving it :-)
Name: Bob Williams
City, Country: Johannesburg , South Africa
Sent: 8.55 AM - 12/20 2001
HAPPY BIRTHDAY 2 U.
Just in case you thought I would forget. It was great being your sponsor to
South Africa and many thanks for the kind words about me and my company
www.etravel.co.za.
Enjoy Spain and have a GR8 Birthday.
Name: Rebecca
City, Country: Kugluktuk, Nunavut, Canada
Sent: 7.44 AM - 12/20 2001
Hello Ramon!
I have just checked out your website after hearing your interview on Arthur
Blacks' Basic Black here in Canada and I'm not too sure you'll want to visit
me! I live in the Arctic right now in a community of Inuit people... I think it
would be interesting for you but you'll need to get a little better at handling
the cold! But we have big parkas you can borrow... not to worry! Happy Birthday
and Merry Christmas as well... I am sooo impressed at your idea... it's
wonderful! Hope you visit Canada soon. I am also from Calgary so you can visit
me there as well when you visit your Aunt and Uncle. Take care,
Rebecca
Name: Anna & Juan (ex-hosts)
City, Country: Madrid, Spain
Sent: 6.45 AM - 12/20 2001
May this be your first birthday of a few more in this trip around the world...
Be good, be happy
Anna & Juan
Name: Sylvia (ex host)
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 1.32 AM - 12/20 2001
(To be sung)!
Happy Birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy Birthday dear Ramon
Happy Birthday to you
Lots of love and have a nice Birthday
Sylvia xxx
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 12.19 AM - 12/20 2001
Feliz Cumpleanos a ti! Happy birthday, Ramon,
MJ
Name: Juan
City, Country: Madrid
Sent: 11.16 PM - 12/19 2001
Happy birthday!!!!!!!!!
Name: juut en gerrieke
City, Country: groningen, netherlands
Sent: 7.22 PM - 12/19 2001
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!
AND have a NICE day!!!
lots of love
juut en gerrieke
Name: Ivana
City, Country: Bologna, Italy
Sent: 1.02 PM - 12/18 2001
I don't know U...I just had a look at your website and discovered that it will
be Your Bday in 2 days...so
HAPPY BIRTHDAY....
and if U'll ever think to come to Italy, Bologna, pls let me know.
Name: Ramon
City, Country: Barcelona, Spain
Sent: 10.09 AM - 12/18 2001
Read the online report from the Independently Homeless crew in
South Africa
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver, US
Sent: 4.20 PM - 12/17 2001
Anna, you seem to be a very sweet person!! :) I'm glad Ramon had the chance to
stay with you and we, as readers, got to meet you as well.
I'm always in the habit of trying to cheer people up, it's what I do. :) A
bright side would be, yes, it seems you got to meet and become friends with a
very fine person. How lucky! In that process I think you also gained 200 other
friends that have hosted Ramon, and the thousands of us out here that follow
his website.
I hope that helps somewhat? Lovely to meet you Anna!!
Your friend,
MJ
Name: Anna Mayer (ex-host Madrid)
City, Country: Madrid, España
Sent: 11.20 AM - 12/17 2001
Saturday and Sunday felt a bit restless, and I wonder whether this is a common
thing among your hosts. Maybe it was having you here for three days instead of
just one, and of course the silly jokes about the Swedish helped somehow :-)
The feeling is that of a loss, of having contacted with a nice person and
seeing it go so soon; not only: having you here was somehow special (not
because *you* are special, just in case this upsets you :-), but because you
were our only guest; I guess that if I had something like
letmehostyouforaday.com, guests would still be special but in a quite different
way); and one can't help feeling that this necessarily can't be both ways, what
with all the 2700 hosts you had/you're going to have.
Now, this is getting complicated, when it is not.
What I really want to say, not caring whether I seem selfish and self-centered,
is that it was really nice having you here, and it is a pity that you have this
funny 5-year project ahead of you (it's not a pity of course because it looks
like an excellent project, but it is a pity for me-Anna Mayer, as opposed to
me-the host), because this probably means that there are little chances of
seeing you again, not to mention getting to grow a friendship, at least not
soon. Besides, I probably should "compete" with other 2699 people :-D
It may be an Italian thing, or an Annamayer thing, who knows, but I just get
really upset when a relationship (such as a friendship in this case, I hope I
don't have to point this out too often, just in case I get misunderstood!)
doesn't get going the way I would like it to; and the best method I've found so
far in my life to solve or at least smooth the "upsetting"
(upsettment?) is to speak it out.
I don't know whether the overall tone of this mail manages to convey what I'm
feeling, or whether you see only bad or upset thoughts. I might have insisted
on the upset ones, but only because I suppose the good&happy ones are
obvious and taken for granted :-)
Be good, enjoy yourself.
Anna Mayer
Name: donatella gazzoni
City, Country: milan, italy
Sent: 1.59 AM - 12/16 2001
hello ramon,I want to cheer you if you're still on line. I haven't read your
latest reports, apart from the message below. also here in italy is freezing:
we've had a sudden snow buffering..
I hope everything's going on well for you!
ciao, donatella
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Madrid, Spain
Sent: 12.20 PM - 12/15 2001
The latest news:
The wave of cold and snow summons up the life of six people in Barcelona
The weather is causing serious breaks, not only circulatory, in all Catalonia.
Great part of Barcelona has been without light this late by a blackout that has
affected, in addition, to the localities of Calldetenes, Manresa, Vic, Terrassa
and Vilasar of Sea, among others, according to has informed sources into the
Fecsa-cEndesa company.
In addition, all the schools of Gerona are being evacuated as a result of the
intense ones made snow-white falls in the zone, whereas the schools of a twenty
of Catalan localities have had to bad weather close their doors due to.
The temperatures will lower in Madrid, where it will be able to snow to any
level, until the five degrees below cero, being able to also register winds of
up to 90 kilometers per hour in zones of the mountain range which they are to
1,000-1,500 meters of altitude.
One of the communities where the weather is feeling with special intensity is
Catalonia. The snow has been lowered from this morning on the provinces of
Gerona and Barcelona, including the coast and the Catalan capital, that has
forced the Firemen to carry out the first exits and to evacuate several schools
in the gerundenses regions.
Translated
article in El Pais, ready to declare emergency situation
Guess I have to flee to the Canary Island at the African westcoast...
Name: KathleenWhite/Richard Hijnen
City, Country: Calgary Canada
Sent: 2.01 AM - 12/15 2001
Greeting from your cousins in Calgary. Hope you have a fun birthday and Merry
Chritmas. Good luck with your adventures,see you in Calgary sometime in the
next 5 years. Kathleen, Richard adn Dylan. Take care.
RAMON:
Hey uncle Richard and Aunt Kathleen logged in on my website. Really great!
Greetings from cold Madrid.
Name: Joao Paglione
City, Country: New York City, New york
Sent: 11.21 PM - 12/14 2001
Hey Ramon, I got a response out of you! Cool. Hope alles is gut and you are
enjoying man Tapas. You really should check out www.donlorenzo.com, because he
is an ex-patriote writer living in Spain and is a FASCINATING character, has
traveled all over the world and been involved in many situations, he runs a
small pensione in a small village, helps the gypsies harvest olives, makes pen
and ink sketches, and has a small Brazilian daughter he concocted one hot night
at Carneval in Rio de Janeiro!
Man, I am so jealous you are in Spain, but it sucks that it is winter and cold
there, too. Just like here in New York. Oh well, maybe you will get magically
whisked away to the Caribbean.
Doesn't sound bad as a next destination, does it?
totzieds - jp
Name: Tom
City, Country: Temecula
Sent: 8.42 PM - 12/14 2001
To Brian from Durban:
Brain, I'm so glad Ramon made a report on his visit with you! I'm glad we got
to get to visit with you some more.
May I give you some advice?
As long as you BELIEVE you are not a good cook, that will be the Truth, as it
sounds like it is from Ramon's report. I had heard that "teaching"
from several sources before I strated to apply it.
Here's my story:
I used to be very bad at remembering people's names. That's not an uncommon
"failing," and I would frequently say "I'm not very good at
remembering names," as is also very common.
Well, one time shortly after I had again heard that wisdom about "what you
believe is what you'll get" (or some version of that truth), I heard
myself telling someone "I'm no good at remembering names" after I'd
forgotten their name. I realized that I had a BELIEF that I was no good at
remembering names. Now I don't know where the belief came from, but it sure was
true. I decided, however, that it was "just a belief" and being
"just a belief" I could change it.
I started going around my house saying "I'm really good at remembering
people's names." I'd say it in the mirror. I'd ham it up and strut around
bragging about how good I was at remembering names. Of course it was a
bold-faced lie at the time, but after only a few weeks of it, I started to say
it to others. "I'm good at remembering names." I noticed that people
would inevitably be surprised to hear me say that, because it is so common for
people to say (obviously to believe also) the opposite.
The outcome is that with very little effort, other than changing my belief, I
AM now very good at remembering people's names!!!! (I didn't have to take any
memory course or develop some esoteric neumonic(sp?) system for remembering
names).
So, my advice is to stop BELIEVING that you are a bad cook and stop SAYING it.
I promise if you do, your cooking will improve without you needing to enroll in
cooking school. If you WANT to be a good cook, then also start saying "I'm
a good cook!!" or even "I'm a GREAT cook!", but just stopping
believing you are a bad cook will lead to improvements (unless you WANT to be a
bad cook, unless your identity and ego is somehow wrapped up in being and being
known as a bad cook).
Bon Appetit!
Tom
Name: Tom
City, Country: Temecula, California, USA
Sent: 8.13 PM - 12/14 2001
I hadn't been keeping up with the message board for quite some time. After
posting my comments about your encounter with Olav your first day in Spain I
scrolled back to read a few messages and picked up Brian's nice mention of me
as a "balanced" person,which led me back to the Chuck Reese and GI
Joe "controversies."
The message and tone of GI Joe's letter does reflect, I believe, an
all-too-common sentiment/mentality in the U.S.
There are, as Brian points out, many people in the U.S. who are
"balanced" and who do not share such attitudes.
Ramon, I do hope you'll make it to the U.S. even if we are still "at
war." (We're not really At War). Maybe your presence and influence would
help to counter the bellicose and aggressively self-righteous hostility of the
GI Joes in the U.S.
As far as commenting on Chuck Reese, he obviously is not capable of
appreciating your creativity and courage and self-discipline --- i.e. he
doesn't "get it." Certainly at least 95% of the message-givers on
your board do get how awesome you are to be doing this.
Hey, and the controveries (like Olav and GI Joe) are cool too, because they do
stir things up. As a writer, you have probably already heard that any writing,
even non-fiction, needs to have CONFLICT to make interesting reading. I admire
you for not shying away from conflict, like, as one little example, your comments
about Iberia airlines, and as a bigger example, your "discussion"
with Olav.
Have Fun, Ramon.
Tom
Name: Tom
City, Country: Temecula, California, USA
Sent: 7.35 PM - 12/14 2001
Dear Ramon:
I wanted to kick that as*hole Olav. YOu are amazing and I certianly can imagine
how difficult it can get for you with no time off, having to deal with so many
different personalities. I hope your weekend off was helpful to you.
It sounded like Olav was trying to get you to justify yourself and your awesome
project. I'm sure I don't really need to tell you this, but maybe it will be
supportive: YOU HAVE NO NEED TO JUSTIFY YOURSELF OR YOUR ACTIONS TO ANYONE,
unless you are harming them in some way or interfering with their freedom OR
they are paying you (i.e. as your boss or client). Certainly Olav doesn't fall
into any of those categories. I admire you for being able to hold your own and
stand up for yourself in what sounds like a very unnpleasant encounter AND
getting over it, as it sounds like you did at the end.
Have fun in Spain. I hope the rest of your hosts will not provide as difficult
encounters as your first host.
Tom
Name: Coralie
City, Country: England
Sent: 5.17 PM - 12/14 2001
Hi Ramon
wow you really are doing great .....am just listening to the kissFM Bam
Bam-show remember ?? it is soooo funny ..and I will always keep it .....
Sincere wishes for a great Birthday ....
Hugs
Coralie
Name: Joao Paglione
City, Country: New york City, New york
Sent: 9.56 PM - 12/13 2001
Goede tag Ramon!
Hope you are having fun in Spain because it is freezing cold and foggy in New
York. Don't forget to find yourself in ANDALUCIA, the best part of Spain
without a doubt.
Maybe you might get to visit www.donlorenzo.com - The reincarnation of
Hemingway who took over a small peasant village. He is Brilliant, yo!
Take care and be careful with those tricky spaniards! just kidding, they are
wonderful and warm people..
RAMON:
Well, to be honest. It´s freezing cold here in Madrid too! The forecast is 1
degree Celsius (35F) on Saturday, with -8 (18F) at nights... Brrr! I don´t even
want to know how cold it is in Holland...
However it´s fine in Madrid. Madrilenos, as the city's residents are called,
seem to spend most of their time eating, drinking and enjoying life: their long
lunches are legendary, they spend their evenings hopping from tapas bar to
tapas bar, and eventually—sometimes as late as midnight—they get around to
eating dinner.
Name: brian
City, Country: toronto
Sent: 4.51 PM - 12/13 2001
...i guess you liked my haircut suggestion
Name: James
City, Country: Lisbon, Portugal
Sent: 3.38 PM - 12/13 2001
I am amazed with this. It's very funny and still an excellent idea. Why didn't
I have it?!
Welcome to Lisbon some day.
J
Name: Veru
City, Country: Rome, Italy
Sent: 12.19 PM - 12/13 2001
Hy,
your project is marvellous... Good travel:)))
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 9.35 AM - 12/13 2001
Ramon, wonder what the haircut could be...
Name: Gregory
City, Country: Belgium Antwerp
Sent: 7.53 AM - 12/13 2001
Ramon!!! you r nuts!!! BUT I LOVE IT!!!!! Keep it up and be carefull on the
road... Greetz from Belgium!!! Gregory
Sent: 12.31 AM - 12/13 2001
Should Ramon get himself a new haircut on his birthday on December 20?
Answer the question in the poll, go:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lmsfad
Name: Salomé
City, Country: South Africa
Sent: 8.11 PM - 12/12 2001
Good Bye Ramon! I am glad you got to see most of South Africa. I got to see
some beautiful places her in my own country, thanks to you. I am looking
forward to the reports from Spain. I hope you get ALOT of invites :-) -cheers
Name: Jeannine Corkery
City, Country: Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Sent: 3.49 PM - 12/12 2001
Hi Ramon. Thanks to the CBC I was able to listen-in on your conversation with
Arthur Black. Your story of adventure is truly inspiring. I noticed on your
website that you have been invited to Newfoundland. You must know that
Newfoundlanders are some of the BEST people in Canada. So friendly and
hospitable. Nova Scotia isn't that far from NF so you must come for a visit. We
ain't that bad either.
All the best to you. Be safe.
Jeannine
Name: Munk
Sent: 4.35 PM - 12/11 2001
Sooooooo, Spain it is. Did you meet Sinterklaas yet. He must be exhausted after
all those days in Holland... Watch out for the sack his helpers are carrying,
there's some nasty SOB's in there.
Name: Natalie Labelle
City, Country: Vancouver, Canada
Sent: 6.54 AM - 12/11 2001
As a Canadian, I just wanted to say Ramon, that Chuck Reece's comment does not
represent the opinion of those of us thousands of frisky, fun-loving Canadians.
He's just sour grapes and doesn't know how to live a little. Or a lot, in your
case. If you come to Vancouver, you're more than welcome to stay at my place.
I wish you all the best in your travels,
cheers,
Natalie Labelle
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.24 AM - 12/11 2001
Hi MJ from Denver
Yes, Chuck Reece has started a spot of controversy. However, is Ramon's
messageboard the right place for this? Also, irrespective of the definition of
"dead-beat", it conjures up a negative image.
This world has enough negativity all over, and it is not necessary, or even
desirable, to introduce more.
Specifically, Ramon is one of the most positive and forward-thinking people
I've met. Since Chuck has not actually met him, it is a little unfair to pass
such judgement over him, by suggestion or directly.
Even if you don't like someone, for whatever reason it may be, you should still
respect that person, for they are only human, like the rest of us. We all have
wonderful attributes, and we all have terrible attributes too. Accept people
for who they are.
With fewer thoughts of conflict, and more thoughts of harmony, this world will
be even better than it already is. Living in South Africa, I'm sure that I'm
allowed to say that.
Fair?
May Ramon continue to teach us about ourselves.
Keep well
Brian
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver, USA
Sent: 6.35 PM - 12/10 2001
hehe, i agree with Renee, Chuck is pretty funny. What a better way to start up
a little "controversy" on the message board. What is the true
definition of a deadbeat anyway??? :)
Ramon, safe trip to Spain. Please have some paella for me and visit my favorite
cathedral in all the world in Malaga. :) (if you have time)
Name: Journo Jim
City, Country: Angers, France
Sent: 4.35 PM - 12/10 2001
Hi Ramon,
I had a look at the Russian link you were posted, but sadly my ability in
Russian is worse than minimal. It's an article about your travels, and about
"how you don't want to pay" to see the world. The rest of it is
probably putting that in context, and as I say, my understanding is fragmentary
at best. I've passed it into my friend Natasha, and I'll let you know what she
says about it.
Spain will, I have no doubt, be amazing. Wonderful to stay somewhere warm for
Christmas! I'll be stuck in rainy old Dublin, but we will definitely raise a
glass of the black stuff in your honour.
All the best,
Jim
Name: Lin MacDonald
City, Country: New Brunswick, Canada
Sent: 10.40 AM - 12/10 2001
Hi Ramon - heard you talking to Arthur Black on CBC radio today. Very
interesting project uou have undertaken. You would be welcome to stay at my
place for a day and I'll show you around Fredericton, New Brunswick - one of
Canada's ten provinces. You must come to Canada - we're very friendly here.
Name: Renee Groeninx
City, Country: MIlton Keynes, UK
Sent: 10.39 AM - 12/10 2001
Chuck, you're funny. Where is your humour guys and gals?
Renee
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 9.41 AM - 12/10 2001
Chuck Reece in Canada needs to get a life! Ramon, looks like you are more then
welcome in Canada after your interview on CBC, fingers crossed for a sponsored
flight! Hope you arrived save and sound in Spain!
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.19 AM - 12/10 2001
Hi Ramon
Just to reply to Chuck Reece in Canada. Yes, he is probably right. Shame, I
pity the real Canadians, having to put up with dead-beats like him. Perhaps he
is right, you probably don't want to stay with dead-beats, Reece being their
leader.
Jeez! Wake up! With all the problems in South Africa, we can still be positive.
Canada can't be so bad. Methinks Reece needs a wake up call, or a deportation,
though I can't think who would want him!
That aside, Ramon, I trust that you had an enjoyable, and interesting, stay in
our country. I hope that you feel welcome to return here for a holiday. Even if
you never actually get here, you are welcome back.
Enjoy Spain, and where-ever next you venture. Keep well, and keep up the
exceptional quality of your journalism. We are fascinated, and captivated, by your
stories.
All the best, and hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Pam DeMonte
City, Country: Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
Sent: 8.11 PM - 12/9 2001
Hello Ramon:
This is the first opportunity I've had to send an e-mail after hearing your
conversation with Arthur Black yesterday on CBC Radio.
I should like to say that you'd be more than welcome to stay a day with my
husband and myself here in Northern Ontario.
If you happen to be here during the summer months there are beaches, canoeing,
fishing etc. available. In wintertime, skiing, skating, snowboarding, ice
fishing etc.
Normally by now we have plenty of snow, but we've only had one substantial
snowfall so far which has since disappeared with warmer than usual weather.
Here's hoping you have a wonderful time in Spain and all your subsequent
"ports of call".
Good luck to you, have a happy birthday and an even happier Christmas wherever
you may be.
Name: Nelmarie (ex host)
City, Country: Bredasdorp, SOUTH AFRICA
Sent: 6.45 PM - 12/9 2001
Ramon, I hope you'll have good memories of our country, and that you will be
back for a holiday in the future. Thanks again for the opportunity to meet you.
It was a visit we will treasure forever. Have a safe trip. I hope you'll have a
joyfull Christmas day with nice hosts, and have a great new year's eve party.
Take care...
Name: Annemarie Tissen
City, Country: Alford, Scotland
Sent: 6.44 PM - 12/9 2001
Ramon. I think you lost quite a bit of weight since we last met!
South Africa, you should have fed him pancakes every now and then!
Cheers Ramon still enjoying your big adventure. Take Care. Annemarie
Name: pam
City, Country: chicago, USA
Sent: 4.50 PM - 12/9 2001
I tried emailing but it was returned since you do not accept emails from
'yahoo.com' over foreign mailservers. Do you have any other email address to
email to? Pam_daly@yahoo.com
Name: Carol Souliere
City, Country: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Sent: 12.22 PM - 12/9 2001
Hey Ramon,
I just heard your interview on CBC Radio - Basic Black. I want to commend you
for your courage and creativity. I'm a believer in that too. I've lived some of
my dreams - lived in Banff, the Canadian Rockies; lived in Hong Kong; went to
school in US and Canada. Anyway, it would be great to meet you and swap some
stories. I am a teacher, pastor and sometime singer/songwriter. Live life to
the fullest! Enjoy your travels!
Name: Kate Von Kanel
City, Country: Victoria, Canada
Sent: 12.17 PM - 12/9 2001
Hi Ramon,
I just heard the interview with you on Canada's Basic Black Show, one of my
favourites. It sounds as though you are having a terrific time. Should you ever
visit Victoria, Canada, you would be welcome to stay with us. My 17-year old
son, Peter, has the wanderlust too and would be a good companion for you in our
city as he knows everything about it. I will introduce him to your site when he
gets home.
Name: Chuck Reece
Sent: 12.08 PM - 12/9 2001
Ramon,
We have enough deadbeats in this country. Stay somewhere else.
Chuck, a Canadian
"Be like a postage stamp... stick to one thing until you get there"
(reece45@rogers.com)
Name: Donatella Gazzoni
City, Country: Milan, Italy
Sent: 11.47 AM - 12/9 2001
Hello Ramon! If I'm not wrong, tomorrow you'll be in Spain.. YOU LUCKY!! I'll
read you reports from Madrid and I'll have the sensation of being there (..as
the ancient writers did..). I visited Spain twice in summer (Costa Brava)and I
just want to give you 2 advices (maybe common):
- if possible, visit the "Park Guell" in Barcelona: it has the
longest bench in the world, all made of mosaics (amazing colours!);
- it's a bit hard to be reached, but visit Cadaquès (is just at the border
Spain/France): is a small and cosy fishermen village,where the painter Dalì
used to live in the 60'.
I guess you're already too busy with other places..
but, above all, eat the PAELLA (that's why I began my message sayin' "you
lucky"!).
Wish you well.
CIAO! Donatella
Name: Elena
City, Country: Russia, now Korea, Seoul
Sent: 11.19 AM - 12/9 2001
Hello, Ramon
You've asked about the link to russian site
http://www.cnews.ru/funs/2001/12/06/20011206110215.shtml
There is an article about you and your trip and there is a link to the site.
All the information is taken from this website and there is no special comments.
Name: Patti Evans
City, Country: Kelowna, BC, Canada
Sent: 9.07 PM - 12/8 2001
Ramon,
I just heard about your website on CBC Radio, and I think your idea is
wonderful. Canada awaits you, and you are welcome to stay with my husband and
me on your journey. I hope that you can make it coast to coast. I noticed that
you have an invite for St. John's, NF. That is where I grew up, and it is one
of the friendliest places in the world for strangers to visit. British Columbia
is now my home, and it too is a great place to visit, especially Kelowna, where
there are mountains and lakes (and possibly a ride on our houseboat!) and
beautiful scenery.
Hope to see you in the new year!
Have a great birthday,
Patti
Name: Philip Veer
City, Country: Beaconsfield, Quebec,Canada
Sent: 7.08 PM - 12/8 2001
Dear Ramon,
It was a pleasure to here you on the CBC Radio this morning. I know you will be
in Canada sometime in the
future. My wife and I will be honoured to be your host.
You have also been invited to visit somebody in Chateaugay,Quebec. I will take
you there, as it is not too far from Beaconsfield.So far I have been in 10
countries in Europe, Africa and North America. I am planning to go to 3
countries in Asia soon.I have really experienced LOVE and Frienship in the
world.
Thank you for being a great messenger of LOVE and PEACE
in the world.Good luck!and remember that you are just at the beginning of a
long journey! I am sure that you will find something really AMAZING in the end
and that you will share it with all of us!
Let the light be with you!
PHILIP
Name: Con Koevoet
City, Country: Marathon, Ontario, Canada
Sent: 6.41 PM - 12/8 2001
Hi Ramon,
I heard about you on Basic Black this morning. Very interesting. I have invited
yopu to join us here whenever you are iout this way. I am originally from
Holland but have lives here 44 years. When you are traveling in Canada visit
the Public Libraries which they have in most cities and villages. Most of them
also have Internet hookup and e-mail checking which at most libraries you can
do at no charge. Marathon Is located on the top of beautiful Lake Superior and
we will be happy to show you around. If you need any help with your trip in
Canada please feel free to call me and will do what I can. Doei
Name: Miville
City, Country: Saint John, Canada
Sent: 5.08 PM - 12/8 2001
Dear Ramon, I heard about your project on Basic Black (CBC Radio)this morning.
I admire your trust in Nature and in Human Nature. You won't be disappointed.
As you sow. so shall you reap. Take good care of yourself. Rest well and travel
comfortably. Your are a precious ambassador of World Peace. When you come to
Canada we hope to be your host for a day. Come and have a merry time in the
Maritimes. Janice bakes a cake to die for! How about a nice walk and talk on
Mispec Beach? Enjoy!
Name: Dumela
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 5.06 PM - 12/8 2001
Today in the UK newspaper The Guardian (travel section) they have a big
'special feature' on South Africa. If Ramon's travels around this beautiful
country have whetted people's appetites for more information and pictures, the
feature is online at:
http://travel.guardian.co.uk/feature/0,8806,615255,00.html
Enjoy! And safe travels on Monday, Ramon. Thank you for being such a great (and
honest) ambassador for South Africa.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Johannesburg, South Africa
Sent: 12.48 PM - 12/8 2001
While getting ready for departure to SPAIN on Monday, I discover this in my
mailbox.
Does anybody understand Russian?
Âîêðóã ñâåòà íà õàëÿâó
Name: Donatella Gazzoni
City, Country: Milan, Italy
Sent: 12.39 PM - 12/8 2001
My name's Donatella, I live in Milan (Italy), I'm 26 and I'm a student (4 exams
left to get a degree in law). Unfortunately,this mail ain't an invitation
because I'm still living with my family, so I can't (but..as soon as I finish
university, I'll get my own home with my boyfriend Pasquale - we've been
togheter for nearly 5 years: it's time to live together!).
I read about your "enterprise" a few months ago on the newspaper, and
now and then I take a look at your website. I just want to tell you that your
idea is REALLY BRILLIANT!! I couldn't appreciate more your bravery, your
enjoyment in living (believe me! I'm
perhaps the laziest person in the world..).
I wish your trip around the world will be incredibly exciting, and you'll meet
interesting people and unforgettable places!
Well.. I'll keep on surfing the net and follow your
adventures.
Lots of greetings and... sorry if I'm not so fluent in English..
CIAO!!!
Name: Fi Lion
City, Country: Edinburgh, Scotland.
Sent: 1.32 AM - 12/8 2001
May I recommend for New Year that you are invited to our party. It is the
biggest New Year's Eve party in Europe (maybe even the world): Hogmanay in
Edinburgh, Scotland!!! You are welcome to share this big street party and
festival with us here in Edinburgh. I am sure too that the Playfair House
Hostel will let you stay for a day (or 4 or 5, because the pary goes on for
that long!)
The weather will be cold, but we will give you a warm welcome in Scotland!! :)
RAMON:
Thanks Fi, but who is going to fly me up there? And then: cold Scotland
would be to much of a weathershock to me. I think I'll stay with the
warmhearted Spanish people for a while...
Name: Leonard Stephen Ondu Majakil
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
Sent: 6.31 AM - 12/7 2001
RAMON dear,
Its almost 1 (one) Christmas you are on the road. I wish to say sorry for
calling you 'NUT' and your backup 'GREEDY'.
We're different and sometimes I let that difference come between us. May the
celebrated Founder of Christmas' LOVE draw us together.
MERRY CHRISTMAS and also to those following you.
With everlasting Love always and forever,
LSOM.
Name: Darnell
City, Country: Long Beach, USA
Sent: 4.58 PM - 12/6 2001
Ramon (AKA: Mr. 21st century Marco Polo),
Sounds like the trip is continuing to go well. I have a couple of quick
questions for you. Have you given any thoughts to what you would like to do for
New Year's Eve or your birthday? I mean are you going to try to meet up with
your family and relatives along the way?
Secondly, if you could go back in time and talk to yourself before you began
your journey, what would advice would you give yourself?
Again continue success on your trip.
Que
le vaya bien.
RAMON:
1) I will stay in Spain during my birthday, Christmas and New Year. I just
can't bear to go home for these days and return back to Spain after it. I am
doing this thing and I still want to depend on the hospitality of people who
help me out these days. We will see what will happen...
2) Advice for myself? Ooch... I shouldn't have left home without a simple
wordprocessing laptop... :-)
Name: Luis Lopes
City, Country: Centurion , South Africa
Sent: 2.01 PM - 12/6 2001
Hi Ramon,
Thank you for the opportunity of allowing us to be a link on that long chain of
Good People through out the World.
To Gerhard and Colleen Oosthuizen, also a Big thank you for the magnificent
gift, we will treasure it dearly!
Name: Jeanine Van Heerden
City, Country: Grahamstown, South Africa
Sent: 1.49 PM - 12/6 2001
Hi, it's Jeanine, your biggest fan from Grahamstown here ...
how are you doing boy?
I am quite disturbed at your latest mail (from the mailinglist)... it does not
sound good .... I think I do understand your position and that you are merely
very, very tired. It is a good thing that you have decided that Spain should
wait for a while and if I may make a suggestion it would be to head back home
to your loved ones where you can recharge the batteries and be yourself for a
change. Not that I am saying that you are not, but I have been following you
for seven months now and can understand that it is not an easy thing at all. To
meet so many people and to always be on your best behavior, not to mention the
distances you have to travel each day, to deal with so many conflicting
opinions, some senseless, must be exhausting. One's home has great
therapeutically advantages and to be embraced by the people closest to you
sometimes is all that you need ...
You have done an excellent job so far and I have the greatest confidence that
you would in future too. You are a remarkable person, no matter how many times
you have heard that from your hosts, they do speak from their hearts as you
have, with your project, managed to bring the world together. And somehow the
world depends on you to entertain them, but don't lose your spirit in the
process. We will still be here when you return and we will think no less of you
for taking a break either. We are all human and since you have done so much for
us we can at least give you a break. I do believe that I speak on behalf of all
your followers. My sincerest wishes accompany this little note and I only wish
the best of luck upon you. May you find the peace and quiet you so desperately
need at this moment in your life.
Take the utmost care Ramon and go well.
With love and good wishes
Jeanine
RAMON:
Thanks for your lovely writing Jeanine and I am sorry for leading you onto the
wrong path.
There is no way I will be going back home at this moment.
My airplane to Spain still departs on Monday evening from Johannesburg and my
project will go on.
Indeed, as you wrote, staying with different people and so many conflicting
opinions, some senseless and social behaviors is very exhausting. That is why I
will be staying in a low-budget hotel in Johannesburg from Friday until Monday
the 10th, so I’ll be able to update the latest reports that deserve to be
written (!) without being a guest for a few days. My friends in the backup-team
pay all expenses of this hotel.
I just need some time. Time to reflect, relax and prepare.
Name: Gerard Oosthuizen
City, Country: Kelvin, Johannesburg, South Africa
Sent: 1.23 PM - 12/6 2001
Ramon, it was a real pleasure to have you with us for a few days. You were a
very easy, courteous, pleasant and interesting guest. You are always welcome in
our home!
Colleen, Nakita & Storm sends their love, and we all wish you a very
pleasant last few days in South Africa, a safe journey to Spain, and a
wonderful time there.
And if for some reason you need help / assistance / transport / a place to stay
before you leave South Africa, remember we are only a phone call away.
Warm regards,
Gerhard, Colleen, Nakita & Storm
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.35 AM - 12/6 2001
Yes well...
Ramon, you are quite right about GI Joe. It is the same everywhere. You get
good and bad all over. With any luck, GI Joe is in the minority in USA, and
indeed, in the world.
Certainly MJ and Bret are supporting you, and speaking out against Mr Joe. And
then there is Tom that posted some messages a while ago, he also seems well
balanced.
But I can understand your feelings. It is human nature to remember the bad
things of others, and the good things of ourselves. So, it takes a minority to
destroy the reputation, and often the well-being, of the majority.
The criminals in SA are a particularly good example, as Lianne in England so
clearly indicated. Yes, those stats sound true, but let's face it, the criminal
element in SA is probably less than 5% of the total population. Yet they are
the ones that everyone all over the world remembers.
With any luck, and here I am speaking in favour of the USA, Mr Joe is in his
country's minority. With any luck, the vast majority of Americans are decent
people.
Whatever the case, keep on moving. We appreciate your reports, they show the
world how the world lives. And when you're done, your fan club will be there,
at least in spirit, if not in body, to welcome you home!
Hamba kahle
Brian
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver, USA
Sent: 1.20 AM - 12/6 2001
I feel sorry for GI Joe as well, but in a different way. I don't feel he has
learned much about the world except for the four walls that encircle him. If
he's had bad experiences, it's not the world's fault. Please Ramon, I know
(hope)you don't think we are all like this, but we are also not all the same.
People can have their opinions (because it would be boring if we were all the
same), but it is up for the rest of us to educate the them...in this case, it's
definite that, that has not happened. Respect and toleration.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 12.06 AM - 12/6 2001
Ramon,
Thanks for keeping the posting of GI Joe. I am not embarassed for him, but feel
sorry that he is a coward at not even posting his name. Cowards don't win wars,
nor anything else for that matter. Your words ring true Ramon. I find in this
message board bits of information here and there that help me understand this
confused planet. Information that comes from around the world in it's many
perspectives, can only help in understanding us all as a whole.
Thank you Ramon, and your support staff for all of this.
Name: dbk Tom
City, Country: NZ
Sent: 10.48 PM - 12/5 2001
WITH YOU ALL THE WAY RAMON
Name: Lianne
City, Country: England, UK
Sent: 6.33 PM - 12/5 2001
Good for you Ramon!
21 000 people last year were murdered in South Africa. 1 in 4 have Aids in Kwa
Zulu Natal, (South Africa). Every 26 seconds in South Africa, a woman gets
raped. 30% unemployment, and daunting economic problems : Currently 1.00 United
Kingdom Pounds = 15.3322 South Africa Rand. (And that just one country to use
an example)
What I am trying to say from these statistics is that yes bad things are
happening all over the world too, on a daily basis, often in third world
country’s without the money, connections and media power to make an impact, to
make a statement about how “pissed” they are at it.
Ramon, I’m sure your eyes have been opened by your travels to all the country’s
you have visited. Travel guides can be bought!! By not being tunnel visioned,
by being open to other cultures, for not being ignorant and for getting off
your ass and doing something about it. This is the most important thing that
your “followers” can learn from you and can only be learnt by those who are not
so arrogant to realize it.
PS : Thanks for being one of the good guys.
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 4.17 PM - 12/5 2001
Thumbs up for your statement Ramon!
Name: GI Joe
City, Country: Good old USA
Sent: 5.08 AM - 12/5 2001
That would be great Joao, if Iraq would attempt an attack against Israeli. It
would be just the excuse we Americans would need, to blow Iraq to smithereens.
Which we will be doing soon anyway, with or without an attack on Israeli. But,
what the hell, the sooner the better. And God help the world if there are
anymore terrorists attacks in America. We are pissed.
RAMON:
I almost deleted your message GI Joe (don't you dare to give your real
name?), but I decided to let it be. I hope many people from your Good old USA
will be so enormously embarrassed by your writing, as I am. A lot of people
should stop feeling so good and so perfect and thus so powerful in this world.
When will even the most ignorant and stupid people understand that there can
never be something rare called peace if you behave so
high-flying-in-the-clouds!!! Nobody is perfect and everybody is the same. And
there is no Good old USA, just like there is no Good old Holland or Good old
UK. We are living now. People like you, GI Joe, make me not even WANT to visit
the US!
UPDATE 6/12:
Please know that AOL.COM (your provider Mr. Joe) allows me to find out all the
information about you. Let me help you remember your real name next time...
Name: Joao Paulo Paglione
City, Country: New york City, New York
Sent: 12.02 AM - 12/5 2001
Goede Dag Ramon,
It is getting colder in New York City . . .
I am posting this message because I saw that you were donating your commissions
to the AIDS foundation in South Africa. I think this is an excellent idea and a
great way to use your site.
I wonder what you think of the Israelis invading Palestine now and now that
Iraq has threatened to attack Israel if they continue. This worries me how the
region is becoming more destabilized ..
So my question is, if you got invitations to visit Israel or even Iraq -- would
you go?
RAMON:
Yes, I would almost say of course, I have invites from Israel. I have set
only one important rule before I set off my journey: I will NOT visit countries
at war. So for now, I won't visit the United States of America and if Israel
declares war, I won't visit that country. That counts for any country. If South
Africa would declare war tomorrow, I'll be out of the country the next day. It
is just because I won't have anything to do there.
Name: Judith de Groot
City, Country: Groningen, The Netherlands
Sent: 8.20 PM - 12/4 2001
Hey Ramon,
how are you doing, so far away from this cold and rainy Holland? Hope to be in
touch with you someday again, I might meet you on your chatbox. For now I am
very busy reading a whole bunch of your latest reports...
SO far so good,
lots of love and take care of yourself!! You're doing a good job!
Juut
x
Name: Heidi
City, Country: Cape Town, South Africa
Sent: 8.06 AM - 12/4 2001
Dear Ramon
Well done and I hope that you are enjoying our country.
I have been following your travels and wish you well.
I know that this is not the site for it, but I lived in Overbrook, Kansas, USA
as an exchange student in 1997 and met a wonderful Dutch girl, Brigitte
Lammers. My address book was lost when I returned and I would love to get in
touch with her. Can anyone please help? She came from Delft, has a brother, I
think Fodo and her father is in the IT industry. She is about 31 or 32 years
old.
I would be so grateful to get in touch with her again.
Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.
RAMON:
Try searching for her last name in the Dutch online phonebook at http://www.detelefoongids.com.
You'll find a few more Lammers, but you can try them to find out (country code
Holland = +31). Good luck!
Name: Li Ming
City, Country: Zhengzhou, China
Sent: 3.53 AM - 12/4 2001
Hi, Ramon,
I am very glad that you accepted my invitation. And it is me and one friend of
mine Mr. Li Ming invited you and will help you during your staying in China
somedays.
Zhengzhou, our city, located in the oldest part of China, it is not as developed
as southeast China, but more typical Chinese. There is flight from Beijing
everyday. I am a professional photographer and Mr. li Ming is amature and speak
English. Mr. Li Ming visited Nehterland 3 time since 1997 and stayed in
Nord(Enkhuizen, Grootbroek, Ooterbroek, Hoogkarsbel, Medemblik and
Broekerhaven) during all the 3 visit.
Should I know your schedule, I will made you some sugesstion for your staying
in China and we would like to drive you to other interesting place in China if
Mr. Li Ming and me are free during your stay.
Looking forward to your visit.
Yours,
Zhou Peiying, Li Ming
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 7.54 AM - 12/3 2001
Hey, Ramon
One thing, thank you so much for doing your bit for AIDS in SA, and especially
in KZN. Yes, we do have a problem with it, and your efforts are sincerely
appreciated by South Africans of all types.
It is so good to see that there are people out there who have no particular
ties with South Africans, and who are still willing to do something to help. I
truly hope that the SOuth African government recognises you in some meaningful
way for your concern.
You are indeed a special person, much admired by many people.
hamba kahle
Brian
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 7.50 AM - 12/3 2001
Hi Kim, Ramon
Ramon, thanx for the photos already. Well... What can I say? I'm waiting with
baited breath to see the reports. They should be interesting.
Hey, that idea on the messageboard about a fan club, it is great. What can we
do?
Kim, you can see the photos already. I'm quite surprised that Ramon got them on
so soon, as he really did get delayed during his week without the net. Have
faith, Ramon works hard on his reports, I know he is doing his best.
Of course, he gathers "interesting" information about his hosts from
their colleagues, so be careful who you tell what. :-) But I'm sure the reports
are coming.
As far as your curiosity about me, well, I'm a single white guy in Durban,
living what I believe is a fairly normal life. Ramon's perspective, of course,
might be a little different. I'll comment on his reports if needed. But I
believe that he will be completely honest, and polite, about it.
See ya!
Brian
Name: Sanja
City, Country: Kragujevac, Yugoslavia
Sent: 8.45 PM - 12/2 2001
Hey Ramon,
I always wanted to do something like what are you doing right now, but I never
had courage for it... I am glad you do! I am in the US now, here in college,
but I go home every summer if you ever want to come to Yugoslavia let me know
and you would be more then welcome to stay in my house.
Best of luck!!!!
Name: billy
City, Country: japan
Sent: 1.40 AM - 12/2 2001
Ramon, congratulations with your 7 months on the road. We seem to stay
congratuating you here all the time :-)
Name: Lynn
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.22 AM - 12/2 2001
My Prayers go out for the victims and their families in Israeli, in the latest
cowardly bombings against innocent civilians at the Mall in Jerusalem.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Johannesburg, South Africa
Sent: 11.34 PM - 12/1 2001
Sorry you all, but I need to spam here for a good cause.
To celebrate the fact that Santa Clause is coming soon, I now have this unique
Letmestayforaday Teddy Bear for sale in the Letmestayforaday-webshop. Only
available until January 1, 2002.
This is done in association with Cafepress.com, which gives all buyers a
discount of US$ 1,01 on the total $15 price.
See this cute teddy bear
ALL commissions earned in the shop will be donated to the AIDS Foundation of
South Africa.
The AIDS Foundation of South Africa is a registered non-profit organisation
based in Durban, South Africa. This foundation links donations with
community-based HIV/AIDS organisations who are not in a position to raise their
own funds.
http://www.aids.org.za
Now the World Aids Day has ended, let's act a little bit. You get the teddy bear,
while people in South Africa (where 1 out of 4 people in the province KwaZulu
Natal is HIV/AIDS infected!) can become more
aware of this terrible disease.
With regards,
Ramon Stoppelenburg.
Name: James Lam
City, Country: Merseyside, UK
Sent: 8.17 PM - 12/1 2001
What a great idea, long live your trip!
I know I cannot do what you are doing because I have a
young family to feed and I am over 40. However, I
don't think I have the courage & wisdom to go through what you are going
through at any time of my life anyway. Good luck!
Name: Roman Romano
City, Country: Veracruz, Mexico
Sent: 7.43 PM - 12/1 2001
Hi Ramon, we're waiting for you en Mexico!!! I invited you to Monterrey, but
since I no longer live there I posted an invitation to my new city, Veracruz.
But I didn't find where I could change the invitation. I hope you read this and
change the place to go.
Anyway, I'm looking for friends who would be glad to invite you to Monterrey. I
have many good friends there. Please, let me know if you did the change of
city, thanks! and come soon!!!!
RAMON:
Roman, please just send me an email with your old address and your new
address. Then I can easily change it in the database.
Come soon? The world is big...
Name: Nilay pilancý
City, Country: Ýstanbul Türkiye
Sent: 5.38 PM - 12/1 2001
Hi! Romon! I realy want to stay me. I'm Wating Turkey
Ýstanbul.
Name: Kim
City, Country: Berlin, Germany
Sent: 2.52 PM - 12/1 2001
Hi Ramon! What a pity that there is no longer report about your stay with Brian
in Durban. I read his former messages on this board and was/am quite curious to
know more about him, his views about life and what you talk about when you met.
Like Brian I also submitted my place and follow your tour for quite a while.
Well, such is life - better skipping some reports than staying behind more and
more. I also wrote some travel-diaries (www.take-it-ec.com - beware: it's in
German!) and just the writing took one to two hours each day and I know: it's
real work!
I am an addict to your reports. They allow little escapes from bad weather and
daily working routine!
Keep on travelling, Ramon! You make me feel like being a travel companion.
Name: Evie
City, Country: Florida
Sent: 2.08 PM - 12/1 2001
Hoi Ramon! Ik wil maar zeggen, dat je idee over je reportschrijven goed is. I
only want to say that your idea about writing your reports is good. Niemand
zullen plezier van de schrijvend van oude reports vinden, bijzonders als er
niet zoveel vrijtijd is! Nobody would find fun in writing old reports,
especially if there isn't so much free time! Sulk een werk geeft een zwarte
wolk om boven de hoofd te hangen! Work like that makes a black cloud hang over
the head! Dus moet je niet de schuld over je beslissing houden! So don't feel
any guilt about your decision!
Groetjes,
Evie, _still_ waiting for winter
Name: DEWEIRDT NOËL
City, Country: BELGIUM
Sent: 8.38 AM - 12/1 2001
HI DEAR TRAVELLER
Your site is great and the idea is great to
I will send the url to all my friens all over the world and sure they will like
it and follow you on your trip
ONE QUESTION Why do you dont give the mail adress
from the friendly people wher you stay every day if they like and agree of
coarse so we people that follow you can make/organise a real fan club ????????
Lets hear you plaese
NOËL
Name: Crescent Songs
City, Country: EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND, UK
Sent: 3.42 AM - 12/1 2001
Hi Ramon.
On the HIV/Aids front. everyone ckeck out this site.
*www.teenaids.org*
It's run by a Dr. Chittick who is one GoodGuy and doin' it BIGTIME!
The world just lost George Harrison. Let's not lose any more close to us.
Best Wishes.
T & G.
Take care
Name: Lindy Lou Lou
City, Country: London
Sent: 10.48 PM - 11/30 2001
I liked to ask Ramon, what is the worst place if any you've stayed in and why?
Fantastic and original idea!
RAMON:
I always say that this website is not about the good and the bad as anybody
who opens its doors for me is special in a certain way. I write my report with
all honesty, so they will reflect when I won't feel comfy at a certain place.
But I don't see myself in any position to rate peope about their places. I have
slept on a couch in an airport when I got stuck in England, but I don't see
that as something bad. It was actually quite interesting.
Name: Rob
City, Country: in UK / NZ mostly
Sent: 8.47 PM - 11/30 2001
Hi Ramon,
What a fantantic way of mixing travel and the Net together, wish I had thought
of it! Finding your SA travels very interesting as I'm thinking of heading
there myself next year. Have travelled a great deal over the last 10 years but
never to Africa. I have added a link to this site from my work for your
accommodation and food website called Help Exchange, which may be of assistance
to your trip? www.helpx.net
PS read about your travels in yesterdays Metro news, a free UK newspaper.
Name: Arjan van Heuveln
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 4.41 PM - 11/30 2001
Hi Ramon,
Great idea, and respect for actually seeing it through. If, on your travels,
you need to stop over again in London let me know. I am a fellow Dutchie so can
show you London from a Dutchman's perspective! (I'm close to the airport too!)
I've submitted my address. Good luck on your further travels.
Name: Ashtraxx
City, Country: england
Sent: 11.09 AM - 11/30 2001
Hello
firstly i would like to say- ramon_ what a guy!!!! All the best luck n the
world
SECONDLY- i am leaving to travel myself. i am starting out by catching a plane
to new york and then travel throuth north america-central america-south america
then onto japan and Korea
PLease could anyone contact me if they can offer me a place for a night, or a
job or just good advice because i have never done anything like this
before!!!:-)
Thanking you in advance
ash
ashtraxx@mail2dude.com
Name: Journo Jim
City, Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 10.44 AM - 11/30 2001
Ramon,
I've been busy and only today caught up with your site and travels again. About
Siberia, I have a few suggestions about how you could do that, but I won't
mention them here in case all of your readers decide that going to Russia for
free would be a cool thing to do. I'll be in touch. Keep on trucking!
Jim
Name: sue
City, Country: belgium
Sent: 9.37 AM - 11/30 2001
hoi ramon veel plezier en suces met je tocht
Name: Andy White
City, Country: Bournemouth, England
Sent: 8.55 AM - 11/30 2001
Your site is very good and I'm enjoying reading your thoughts on the people and
places you visit. Obviously once this is done you should put it all in a book
as I think that would be great!
I just wanted say well done for living your life how you want to and finding a
way to realise your dream. It is also a great idea to ad photo's to your site
that show the people you are meeting.
Keep it up,
All the best
Name: Antony
City, Country: Tianjin,China
Sent: 8.49 AM - 11/30 2001
I appreciate ur idea and courage,hope that someday u can visit china and i will
be glad to be ur tour guide.
or maybe i may meet u on the street of an uncertain country,give me a
signature,will u?(as a return,i will give u mine)
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.21 AM - 11/30 2001
Hi Ramon
All this time I thought the delays in your reports were because people were not
allowing you access to the net. Or because you were ... well... I don't have
TV, so I can't be sure...
But it seems I'm wrong, it is because you are so popular.
You can be proud that there is so much interest in you and your work. As for
the SA influence, welcome to SA! As great a country as we are, we are not
perfect.
But wait, give us another five to ten years, and we will be up there with the
first world countries in Europe et al. Quality takes Time. (Especially when
trying to update your web page, hey!)
Be good (or, if not, then be good at it!)
Hamba kahle Ramon
Regards
Brian
Name: Nicole
City, Country: Saskatchewan, Canada
Sent: 4.22 AM - 11/30 2001
Hello Ramon!!
This is the first I've heard of this and I must say it's pretty amazing!
If you ever decide to do a tour of Canada, let me know and we'll be glad to
give you a tour of our GREAT WHITE NORTH!! Carpe Diem and stay safe!
Name: Nicole
City, Country: Saskatchewan, Canada
Sent: 4.22 AM - 11/30 2001
Hello Ramon!!
This is the first I've heard of this and I must say it's pretty amazing!
If you ever decide to do a tour of Canada, let me know and we'll be glad to
give you a tour of our GREAT WHITE NORTH!! Carpe Diem and stay safe!
Name: Crescent Songs
City, Country: EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND, UK.
Sent: 11.50 PM - 11/29 2001
Hi Ramon.
It's some nugget of an idea you came up with! Treat all the folks right. You
plan a book, I believe? Good transworlding!
T & G.
(Crescent Songs).
~#;-)
PS.I think media researchers surfed you up onto their agenda beach!
Name: Lauren
City, Country: Lancashire, England
Sent: 9.43 PM - 11/29 2001
Hi Ramon (when you can get back on here again!)
Yes, you were mentioned in the newspaper 'The Mirror' here yesterday, that's
how I found your site.
I know you've been to the UK before, but if you get any more UK offers and you
want to visit Lancashire (north west), I've submitted my address for you! I
know you've been to Manchester already, but have you ever visited Blackpool?
It's great....soooo tacky! I could take you there! :-)
Anyway, take care and have fun!
Big hugs,
Lauren xxx
PS I'm addicted to this site already!
Name: Jo en Hilde
City, Country: Werchter-Belgie
Sent: 7.56 PM - 11/29 2001
Hey, Raymonke, you' re very much wellcome next year, juli, for the most
wonderfull music happening on earth - ROCK WERCHTER! As we live only minutes
away from it, you must be tempted if happen to be in the neighberhood? Anyway,
we envy you...take care...!
City,
Country: Luton. England
Sent: 5.54 PM - 11/29 2001
Only just looked at your website for the first time
as you say it was published in an English newspaper.
Funny you coming from Zwolle, quite a nice surprise.
I come from Wijthmen (between Zwolle and Heino)and have lived in England for
about 27 years now.
If you are ever coming this way again pop in anytime
but please give us notice. Work commitments ect.
good luck in Africa and especially the internet site of it. My daughter is in
Dar-es-Salaam and has
her own business there, doing safari's ect.
she travelled all over Africa for a year on a budget
and has not come back to earth yet.
The people wherever she went were so friendly and helpful and apparently the
hostels were great fun.
Her diary is a book in itself and I am very envious
of what she has done. As I have great admiration of what you are doing. All the
best!
The Redsimba's family!
Name: Mili
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 2.29 PM - 11/29 2001
Been reading ur v. interesting reports...and just reached Northern Ireland so
far....about the GIFT...its interesting to know what people like to pass on..or
how people think..
I would love to do what you're doing....its a brilliant idea and a very
original way of "seeing the world" ...i wish you all the very
best..and hope achieve what you set out to!
cheers
Name: Michael Dwyer
City, Country: Houston, Texas, USA
Sent: 1.15 PM - 11/29 2001
You are a fascinating and adventurous young man! I think you spark interest in
your wanderings because it touches what many people would realy like to do:
just fly free by the seat of their pants.
Anyway, my questions is this: What are you doing with all the neat gifts people
are giving you? You must have a magical backpack. Taking tips from Santa Claus?
Enjoy yourself!
RAMON:
The gifts that people give me, are ALWAYS forwarded to my next hosts. My
backpack is to fully packed for any other things than my clothing.
Taking trips from Santa Claus? Mmm? Why didn't I get that idea myself. I'll
sent him an email...
Name: Lauren
City, Country: Lancashire, England
Sent: 12.56 PM - 11/29 2001
Hi Ramon!
Well done with your travels so far, you're so lucky!
I left my address, so if you come to England again at any point, you're very
welcome to stay with me (and probably a lot of other people) in the north-west
of England. It would be really cool to meet you :-)
Take care of yourself, and stay safe and happy!
Good luck,
Lauren xxx
Name: Alana
City, Country: Charlottetown, Canada
Sent: 12.42 PM - 11/29 2001
WOW!! You are so brave. It really is an amazing thing that you are doing, I
wish I have the courage to do so. I was told about this site by friends of mine
that you met along the way, Jeff Radke and Erin Collins. It brought tears to my
eyes to see their faces in your pictures. Thank you so much and good luck in
your travels. Be Safe!!
Name: SANNE
City, Country: GARMINGE,DRENTE
Sent: 12.33 PM - 11/29 2001
WAUW IT'S GREAT WHAT YOU'RE DOING.........
I WISH YOU ALL THE LUCK AND LOTS OF FUN !!!!!!
HOPE YOU GET TO SEE ALL THE BEAUTIFULL PLACES IN AUSTRALIA AND AFRICA.AND
EVERYWHERE...
AND IT WOULD BE COOL TO MEET YOU ONE DAY SOMEWHERE IN THE WORLD.......
Name: Rianne
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 10.01 AM - 11/29 2001
Just wanna say HI!
Lots of kisses from your sister-in-law and of course from your big brother and
your nephews.
Name: Aziz
City, Country: Ankara
Sent: 9.07 AM - 11/29 2001
Hi Ramon, good luck in your fantastic travel... take care
Name: fam Vermeer
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 8.44 AM - 11/29 2001
We wish you all the luck in the world!!!
Have a save journey.
Lots of love fam Vermeer
Name: ROHAYA
City, Country: SINGAPORE
Sent: 7.56 AM - 11/29 2001
JUST WANT TO TELL U THAT YOUR IDEA OF TRAVELLING IS FANTASTIC.ALL THE BEST TO U
AND MAY U HAVE A SAFE JOURNEY ALWAYS.
Name: Ivo
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Sent: 6.29 AM - 11/29 2001
Read about your trip in a free paper in Australia.
Pretty interesting trip to do. Left my address details
so come by to visit!
Name: MJ
City, Country: denver, us
Sent: 12.36 AM - 11/29 2001
heya, what happened to the US "Locations". They're missing, unless
it's my browser...
MJ
Name: Dimitar
City, Country: Vancouver
Sent: 11.42 PM - 11/28 2001
Great idea.I wish to be in your shoes.Take care!
Name: Nickie
City, Country: Preston, UK
Sent: 9.54 PM - 11/28 2001
Hi there, Ramon. Good luck on your travels. I'm really impressed with your
website - loads of interesting information. I have also sent you a personal
message, I hope you answer it soon.
Name: donna
City, Country: london
Sent: 8.43 PM - 11/28 2001
hiya, sound like you have a great time!!, keep up the good work
gezza!!.......have fun!!!!!!!! lots lovexxxxx
Name: Ida
City, Country: London,UK
Sent: 4.48 PM - 11/28 2001
Really interesting reading when I am pretending to work! Good Luck
Name: Toni Gallagher
City, Country: Cornwall, New York United States
Sent: 3.55 PM - 11/28 2001
Ramon -- Would love it if you stayed for a day in our home. I am 33 years old
& married to an Irishman, picked him right off of the farm, in fact. I read
about your travels to Ireland & you certainly enjoyed yourself. We live in a
small town called Cornwall, in beautiful Upstate New York & you are more
than welcome in our home whenever your time allows you. Have a great journey,
& a safe one & hope to see you soon.
Name: Krissy
City, Country: london living, kiwi born
Sent: 2.37 PM - 11/28 2001
Great to hear that you are doing so well with your journey. You are doing
something that everybody wishes they could do. Enjoy! Take care.
Name: Michelle Horwood
City, Country: London, England
Sent: 1.40 PM - 11/28 2001
Read your little story in the 'Metro' this morning - very inspiring and there
should be more of it!! You'll be travelling for the rest of your life on all
the invites - have notified all of my friends about your site - so maybe they
will offer accomm with them!! Lucky you. Happy trails and be safe ALWAYS
Name: Charlotte Townsend
City, Country: London, England
Sent: 11.09 AM - 11/28 2001
Although I am now living in London, I spent 28 years in South Africa.......Most
of that was spent in Durban.Such a great place!! I hope you enjoyed your visit
there. Good luck with the rest of your travels.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 8.29 AM - 11/28 2001
Hi Tom
Thanks for your message, I appreciate what you said. Within a week, you should
see the reports from Ramon about me, so you can decide. My cooking is not
great, but not too bad. I'm still alive, you know! :-)
I'd be curious to know what you have to say, after reading the reports. I just
hope, for professional courtesy reasons, that Ramon does not publish the one
photo, at least, not without doctoring it a little...
Brian
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 8.25 AM - 11/28 2001
Hi all
Well, he's come and he's gone. Ramon stayed with me for Monday and Tuesday
nights, 26 and 27 November.
He is so far behind in reporting, due to the primitive nature of the Wild Coast
where he was just before entering KwaZulu Natal, that he spent all day
yesterday progressing with reports and plans for his Joburg and Spain visits.
I don't want to put a long message here, but it's too late...
Ramon does not want me to write about how good his project is, or how nice he
is. (There are enough people doing that already.) So I will have to leave out
some facts.
Apart from his friendliness, honesty, and kindness, Ramon is also a man with a
vision. He is living his dream, something that most of us do not know how to
do.
Before he gets a chance to say anything (!!!), I'll tell you some things. He
does not like apricots in chicken stew! In fact, he was concerned about what I
might dish up last night, so he suggested that we go out for supper. Ramon, I'm
sorry that I scared you with my cooking. (it's not that bad, really...)
Seriously though, anyone who is considering inviting Ramon to stay for a day
can rest in peace. He makes his bed in the morning, he eats almost anything, he
is a person in whose company you feel completely at ease. And, contrary to many
concerns, he is not a serial killer, rapist, or thief. Ramon is an honest,
compassionate, and respectful person. You could easily make close friends with
him.
At my request, he told me some things about me that I did not know, and gave
intelligent advice on improving my life. Ramon, I am truly grateful for this,
you have been noted as one of my most respected people.
I am proud that Ramon selected my invitation, and I am honoured to have the
opportunity to meet him. With any luck, we will get together again after the
project is over. Who knows, maybe we can arrange a get-together of some of
Ramon's supporters from all over the world to launch his next project...
Ramon, I wish you all the best in your travels. May you meet interesting
people, and make close friends along the way. Merci beacoup, et a bientot!
Brian
Name: Dragana Varadinac
City, Country: Novi Sad,Yugoslavia
Sent: 9.07 PM - 11/27 2001
I am very impressed by your travelling and I would have some informations about
a similar project that our artist Miroslav Mandic had performed in Europe from
1991/2001 by walking every day and making with his steps the "Rose of
wandering",an art project that is finished just few years ago.He is 52 at
this time ,so it has suprised me that you are very young and still doing
this!?Maybe you could answer me as I had left my invitation for you.Thanks!
Name: Erwan
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 5.36 PM - 11/27 2001
Hey Ramon, I just took al lool at all the letmestay stuff we can buy now... I
wondered, do the profits of this stuff go back into the project or don't you
make any profit at all ?
Name: Erwan
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 5.36 PM - 11/27 2001
Hey Ramon, I just took al lool at all the letmestay stuff we cab buy now... I
wondered, do the profits of this stuff go back into the project or don't you
make any profit at all ?
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 4.49 PM - 11/27 2001
Hmmm...Christmas eve...he is going to Spain on the 10th, he might hang around
there, although it would be cool for him to do something exciting. If he is in
spain and makes sure he is close to the border, then I am sure there are gonna
be some friends from Zwolle who will jump in a car or a bus to sing Christmas
carols with him!
Name: Munk
Sent: 4.22 PM - 11/27 2001
Ramon already started to hint at where he would be around Christmas... We're
now taking bets! Where will Ramon be on Christmas eve?
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 3.51 PM - 11/27 2001
Ramon
No wonder your stomach is playing you up, seeing some of the food which you
have eaten! Some of it doesn't look too appetising to me! Just make sure that
it is all cooked properly and be careful of things like shellfish, mayonnaise
and more especially hygiene! Your mum will be worried about you.
Take care of yourself Ramon.
Regards as always,
Sylvia
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 3.19 PM - 11/27 2001
Hope you feel better soon Ramon, it is difficult having to go on when you are
not feeling very well. Take care!
Name: Evie
City, Country: Riga, Latvia
Sent: 2.27 PM - 11/27 2001
What a superb idea is to travel like you do!!! And what I like at most, is your
tolerance to different people and different cultures around you. Some day
within five years you can come to Latvia too, but you better do it in summer,
o.k.
Name: Journo Jim
City, Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 11.48 AM - 11/26 2001
Ramon! Well done on the 200 days! Are you going to keep going over Christmas,
or will you take a day or two off to go home and see your family?
I can see from below that the one and only amazing Jack Sheremetoff has
extended an intitation to you to visit Baikal. God, you have to do it! As you
know I was there earlier this year myself, and it was Jack who looked after me
the entire time I was there. Ask him to take you to Arshan, and to Khuzir on the
island in the middle of Baikal. Truly amazing, though perhaps you might need to
get sponsorship from Russian railways to go to Irkutsk on the Trans-Siberian
train.
Anyway, well done on getting this far, and have fun in Spain.
All the best,
Jim
RAMON:
No, I won't go home for a few days during Christmas, but I do know where I
will be and what will happen. But I don't know where I'd be on my birthday,
December 20. We'll see.
About visiting Siberia? Where should I start? In the east or the west ? And
would you know a railway sponsor? Maybe I'll get there through Alaska, :-)
Name: Jack Sheremetoff
City, Country: Russia
Sent: 4.28 PM - 11/25 2001
Greetings from Siberia!
Let me expand the area and invite you to stay-for-a-day in Irkutsk, a nice city
located close to an astonishing lake Baikal!
Name: Tom
City, Country: Temecula, California, USA
Sent: 7.45 AM - 11/25 2001
To Brian & Sylvia: Thanks for your comments. I appreciate you for them. I
would definitely want to take you up on your kind offer, Brian, if I ever get
to Durban. But perhaps I should first wait to see how hospitable you are to
Ramon when he visits you. Eh?
Tom
Name: Joao Paulo Paglione
City, Country: New York City, USA
Sent: 4.27 AM - 11/25 2001
Ramon,
Today was a fun day of shooting at the Brooklyn Heights promenade. I tried to
watch some of your video interviews but would be unable to. Would you consider
being filmed when you come to New York City? Let me know . . .
I am jealous that you are going to Spain! It is every ex-pat's dream. You
should read a book "Driving over Lemons" while you are
there--brilliant!
Good Luck,
Joao Paglione
RAMON:
Joao, if you ever bump into my friends, ask them how I 'Drive Over Oranges'.
In February '00 three friends and I drove the long distance from Holland to
Madrid and Barcelona in a very old grumpy Peugeot 305. And boy, that story is
already worth a book...
Name: carinus
City, Country: stellenbosch, south africa
Sent: 7.24 AM - 11/24 2001
Hei Ramon - the place is East London is found at http://www.nikinana.co.za/ -
not at the URL u posted.
Fix the link please, for the benefit of the owner.
Good luck,
Carinus
RAMON:
Updated. I had no time to check the URL before publication.
Name: Brett
City, Country: Cape Town, South Africa
Sent: 6.01 AM - 11/24 2001
Dawn... Perhaps I am being "thick" but I do not get the meaning of
your post and the URL you give only adds to the mystery. If you are trying to
explain or defend your initial attempt to bill Ramon for internet access (which
kind of defeats the entire object!) you will have to be less cryptic.
Name: Dawn (faker)
City, Country: Coffee Bay, SA
Sent: 12.53 AM - 11/24 2001
“Okay, I’ll give you credits for four beers,” Dawn said and I was a little
bit disappointed. I am not such a freeloader, who wants its drinks and meals
for free. I am a guest and I am invited here.
http://www.nationalampoon.com/dutch/dutch5.html
RAMON:
Ha... ha... ?
Just found out that Dawn could
never have posted this, it's been done by a joker in the US. The IP-address is
known.
Name: Sylvia (past host)
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 9.15 PM - 11/23 2001
Message for Tom of Temecula.
What a lovely message you posted on this board!
My family were fortunate enough to have Ramon for a day back in July and within
minutes of meeting him, it felt as though we had known him for a long time.
What you see is what you get, as he is 'just himself'. He is a very warm,
friendly, individual and immediately you feel perfectly at ease and comfortable
in his company. You instantly feel a great fondness for him and also feel very
protective towards him. We wished Ramon could have stayed for much longer, as I
am sure that his other hosts felt the same, but knew it wasn't possible as it
would then take him 10 years to complete his travels!
You are right in thinking that he comes from a very loving family. I have been
in contact with Ramon's parents and they are very warm and caring, just as you
thought, and they should be very proud of their son's unique project.
Lots of love to Ramon and we wish you a safe exciting adventure. xx
Name: Sabadoobee
City, Country: 1000 entries
Sent: 3.49 PM - 11/23 2001
I think this in itself is a milestone for your project. Well done from
Birmingham, AL.
RAMON:
Unfortunately my messageboard has already started its second generation a
long time ago. It can only allow 999 postings. Every new posting will erase the
first one on the last page. Don't worry, a backup is made for future use...
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 1.53 PM - 11/23 2001
Tom Huntington in California, this is for you. I have read between the lines in
your message. You seem like a wonderful person. If you are ever in South
Africa, please look me up. I'd really like to meet you, and show you a small
part of this incredible country we have, and that Ramon is experiencing.
Regards
Brian
Name: Salomé
City, Country: Table View, South Africa
Sent: 11.54 AM - 11/23 2001
I must admit, I am also addicted to -> LetMeStayForaDay.com :-)
Beautiful message Tom, I agree with you totally.
I cannot wait for the reports from Spain. I want to visit S. next year, and
will be great to get a sneak preview.
Ramon -> Congratulations ! 200 days!
LOVE&LIGHT
Name: Tom Huntington
City, Country: Temecula
Sent: 6.17 AM - 11/23 2001
Dear Ramon, I Love You!
I just got your post for Nov. 8 to 12th. I’m glad you’re getting us back up to
date with your travels.
On Nov. 9th you wrote:
“The other guests in the house complimented me with my great success and the
way that I handle interviews as just another daily thing. And that is strange
to hear, every time, because I am just myself and I got to do what I got to do”
You don’t realize what an inspiration you are. It’s not just because you are
doing something that many of us would also like to do. It’s not just because
you had a creative idea and you are MAKING IT HAPPEN so successfully. It’s not
just because you are dedicated to your goals and you consistently devote the
time to getting your reports out and meeting with reporters and coordinating
with your support crew, etc. etc. etc. (i.e. that you “do the work” that helps
make your project happen) ……
It IS all those things that are inspiring (at least for me), but maybe what is
even more inspiring, is that you ARE “just yourself” and that comes out clear
and authentically in your reports and even in the obvious fun and care shown
through your photos.
You don’t realize that so many people are not “just themselves.” Many people
(maybe even most people) don’t even know “who they are” much less feel
comfortable and at ease “just being themselves.” Many of us grew up in families
and environments where we were not ACCEPTED and LOVED for being ourselves, for
“being who we are.” Many (maybe even most) of us grew up in families where we
were ridiculed or punished (some of us in very subtle ways and some of us in
very gross ways) for “being real” and authentic, and we learned how to pretend
in order to survive and get some semblance of love and acceptance (or at least
less abuse). We learned how to adopt or play a role, usually at very young
ages, so that by the time we got to be teenagers and young adults, we had become
very divorced from our “real selves.”
For those reasons, your authenticity and obvious acceptance of yourself is so
refreshing and inspiring. It is actually very unusual. I imagine you must have
had very loving, accepting parents (or at least above average in the love and
acceptance realm).
I know you don’t need any advice to just keep being yourself and keep doing
what you gotta do, but PLEASE KEEP DOING IT. It is inspiring and if you do
nothing else in your life other than be an example to others for them to “just
be themselves” you will have led a great and worthy life.
Thanks for sharing your life and “just being yourself” with us!
Tom from Temecula, California
Name: Micky D
City, Country: America
Sent: 4.47 AM - 11/23 2001
First it was ostrich, and now it is lambneck.
This is getting worse by the minute.
McDonalds (where's the beef?)
RAMON:
What a pity Micky D, that you don't seem to open yourself up to other
cultures or something else than McDonald's food. Be careful, it characterises
you and foreigners will even charactarise all the Americans like you. But if
you love Mac-food so much, I can pass you on to this this site.
Enjoy the meal...
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.48 AM - 11/23 2001
Hello Everyone,
Happy Thanksgiving to the USA, and to the world.
Ramon, thanks for the updates. Many of us have been wondering where and how you
are. Believe it
or not, you and your travels have become a part of our daily lives. We miss
you!! I log on from work,
I log on from home, looking for your daily reports.
Keep safe, have fun. Hope you get caught up soon, but I am sure it's a bit of a
relief in a sense also for you, to be away from the computer for a bit. But the
catching up will take some time. We are patient, just don't get stressed out
over not being able to write reports daily, we understand. (But we sure do miss
them! :-) You have become a part of our daily routine now, at least for me.)
Take care, best regards,
Joan
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.20 AM - 11/22 2001
Hi Tom
Yep, you are quite right. It seems strange that people care about each other
even when they don't know each other.
But then, we are all human. We all have emotions and feelings. The trouble is
that the media portrays a negative, uncaring, malicious world to us, so we get
the impression that everyone else is bad, and that we are odd for caring.
Au contraire! People do care for each other. Most people are just too scared to
say so, in case they appear to be going against the grain, as laid out by the
media.
Ramon's project is showing the world that this is true. Read the messageboard,
look at the reports. It is very clear that we are a good bunch of people, here
in South Africa, and all over.
Ramon, keep it up, you are doing something for the world that no-one else is
willing or able to do. I am looking forward to hosting you, presumably next
week. My cell phone is charged, it just has to ring...
All the best
Brian
Name: hélène
City, Country: france
Sent: 5.56 PM - 11/21 2001
Where are you Ramon ? Still in South Africa or in Spain ? I really like reading
your daily reports.It's more pleasant than watching TV programs about
countries. It's live ! Thank you a lot.
Name: Munk
City, Country: Zwolle
Sent: 12.47 PM - 11/21 2001
There's no reason to be concerned about Ramon. He always manages to survive
somehow. Besides, him being late delivering reports occasionally is nothing
new. Aks his former teachers at the School for Journalism in Zwolle... :)
Name: Tom
City, Country: Temecula, California
Sent: 6.54 AM - 11/21 2001
Dear Ramon:
I was worried that something unpleasant might have happened to you. I am glad
to find that you are just experiencing a respite from civilization. I look
forward to hearing of your further adventures. I am glad you are fine!
Hey! Isn't that cool? There are people all over the world who haven't even met
you who CARE ABOUT you. That's awesome. I care about you. Take care of
yourself.
Tom
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Port St. Johns, South Africa
Sent: 11.10 PM - 11/20 2001
Finally found myself an internet cafe in the middle of the jungle on the
Wild Coast of South Africa. Have to do some major updating tomorrow ("You
got to work, boy" as they say it here). Check out the latest press release
in the Daily Dispatch, South Africa:
"A crazy Dutch hitchhiker's guide to the galaxy"
Name: Backup Team
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 1.24 PM - 11/20 2001
Ramon is still doing fine and will update the reports very soon. Like he told
before he is having difficulties with the internet-connections in the part of
South Africa where he is traveling now but from the daily phone-calls with him
we can assure you that the new reports will be well worth reading again. So
please be patient. Thank you all for youre support!
Name: martina
City, Country: milan,italy
Sent: 11.00 PM - 11/19 2001
hi ramon!milan is waiting for you!come to visit us.see you soon!!!good luck!
Name: Osama Bin Laden
City, Country: Some cave, Afghanistan
Sent: 10.42 PM - 11/19 2001
When are you coming to visit me Ramon?
Name: Pamela Swanson
City, Country: Lake Havasu, AZ, USA
Sent: 12.29 AM - 11/19 2001
You're invited to my home in Lake Havasu where you can see the American home of
the London Bridge if you ever get to America. P Swanson
Name: Sylvia (ex host)
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 9.12 PM - 11/17 2001
Hi Ramon
Pleased to hear that you are OK, I was getting worried not having seen any
reports for a few days! Congratulations on 200 days of fascinating travel.
Looking forward to seeing your next reports and pictures.
Best Regards
Sylvia
Name: J Boucke
City, Country: USA
Sent: 8.42 PM - 11/17 2001
Your photos allow us all to share in the normal day to
day, and yet some have shown views of wherever you are I never would have
guessed. Your road views are so appropriate. how many times do we travel down
roads, but only take photos of the tourist stops. I have seen roads. I have
seen peoples' streets they live on and their houses. We have seen kitchens.
These are what tell us about people.
Your honesty keeps me coming back everyday to check for a new report because it
is a real person who is meeting real people and then sharing the normal as you
call mundane existence of day to day. I use sometimes your thoughts or
experiences for discussions with the students I teach.
The views of other people in the world about Sept 11 and events following have
been food for thought.
I have been to other blogger sites and this medium of the internet creates this
openness of communication that as an older person gives me such joy over the
goodeness and humanness of us all. Your story of the youthful energy at the
backpackers hotel in SA the other day contrasted to when you stay with older
folks or working singles or those in different lifestyles.
Hope these words send you energy to push on from one who envies your
willingness to be out exploring the unknown.
J (one letter, no period, representing nothing more than J) Boucke
Name: Kite
City, Country: Rome, Italy
Sent: 3.59 PM - 11/17 2001
You just should come to see the most beautiful country of the world... ;-)!
Rome is waiting to welcome you!!!
Ciao Ramon!!!
Name: bill mione
City, Country: port colborne ont. ca
Sent: 3.34 PM - 11/17 2001
HI...RAMON YOUR TRAVELOG & PICTURES ARE JUST SUPER
Name: Wolf Fischer
City, Country: Austria
Sent: 1.45 PM - 11/17 2001
Hi, Ramon!
Greetinx from the Alpes (-10° Celsius in the morning)
The northern hemisphere is getting colder each day.... Don't hurry up! Spend a
longer, extended time in South Africa - don't stress you up, man! In cause if
you enter a firm after this "Round The World Tour" remember you've
only 5 small weeks for all holydays per year! So, when can you went next time
so cheap and so young to South Africa? Who makes the rules :-)
All the Best!
Wolf
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Coffee Bay, South Africa
Sent: 11.49 AM - 11/17 2001
Ramon here, doing fine on the East Wild Coast of South Africa. I am staying
at places where the use of the internet is very rare, just like hot showers or
sun cream... But everything is okay, hope to give you updates soon.
By the way, the mailinglist from Coollist doesn't seem to work anymore. A new
solutions to keep you updated on new reports is coming up soon.
Regards,
Ramon.
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 12.49 AM - 11/17 2001
Where are you Ramon? We have had no reports for a few days, hope you are OK!
Name: Esmeralda de Macau
City, Country: Macau
Sent: 7.22 PM - 11/16 2001
Ramon, we born in the same year. Very happy to hear that you will come to Macau
too. I would like to invite you to my home if I got a spare room for you.
Anyway, you are doing great! Wish you good luck and successful.
Esmeralda :)
Name: Joao Paulo Paglione
City, Country: New York City, New York
Sent: 7.16 PM - 11/16 2001
Ramon,
I read your story and saw that the latest plane crash in Queens upset you. I am
writing to reassure you that in no way was it a terrorist attack, but just a
tragic event.
Can't wait for you to come to New York, so I can meet you!
JP
www.trekshare.com/members/joao
'traveling around the world in a '61 Beetle'
Name: Guna
City, Country: Riga, Latvia
Sent: 2.56 PM - 11/16 2001
Hallo!!!
I hope You will visit Latvia soon!
I'm waiting for You!!!
Guna
Name: Stine
City, Country: Næstved, Danmark
Sent: 7.16 PM - 11/15 2001
Why did you delead my message?
I just want to know why you din't wrote the reporst from copenhagen yet, it's
so long ago, can you still remember it after so long time. I'm verry
interesting ohope you will answer my quistion.
I think you are cool because you do this.
Keep your haed up in this big world and I wich you a lot off luck
Stine
Name: Ana & Jelena
City, Country: Rijeka,Croatia
Sent: 12.21 PM - 11/15 2001
We saw in newspaper an article about you so we decided to find something about
you on inetrnet. Well, all that we can say is... you have wild ideas,travelling
around the world for free...only an Dutchman can have such idea.I envy
you...I'd love that I thought of that first.anyway...bon voyaje,we wish you all
the luck in the world,and you could send us a postcard :)
Name: milkyway
City, Country: south korea
Sent: 5.58 AM - 11/15 2001
Wow! you have been doing great job. I envy of your creative thinking that
everything could be changed in your life. I hope you would come over my house
someday. until the day, take care.
Name: Ron
City, Country: Ft. Worth, Texas USA
Sent: 4.43 AM - 11/15 2001
Hello Ramon!
You are accomplishing everything I ever wanted to do in life. As a child
growing up, I was moved from place to place in the US as my dad built power
plants wherever needed. I guess the moving around so much instilled the need
for me to move on. It made me a wanderer at heart, as you are. Problem has
always been money and I considered a Pan-American trip with the same idea of
being hosted by local people who would take me in and feed me. And perhaps I
will some day thanks to your inspiration. You are living both our dreams. I
hope you make it to the US. If so, and you get to Texas, come to Ft. Worth for
a good old-fashioned Texas Bar-B-Que! We'd love to have you!
Also, I would like to invite you to visit my site at http://www.awequest.net and
post a message in my forum board to say hello to my visitors. It's still young
(only been up for 2 weeks) and a post by you (if you've the time) would be
great! Also, I will write a story about you in my Adventure channel. I would
also like to invite all posters to this board to come visit me or email me as
penpals :).
We are going through many trials in my country and I feel a need to connect with
different people of the world and get to know other cultures in lieu of a trip
such as Ramon's.
Keep our dream alive, Ramon and be safe!
Name: ANDRE
City, Country: DE RUST
Sent: 6.20 PM - 11/14 2001
Just saw the news that you are leaving S.A.
on the 10.12.01. Sorry to see you go
Good Luck!!!
Name: sopopo
City, Country: kwangyang, south korea
Sent: 10.39 AM - 11/14 2001
i heard your news from radio . hope you have a chance to visit my countrey.
good luck
Name: Jeanine
City, Country: Grahamstown, SA
Sent: 9.47 PM - 11/13 2001
Hello Ramon,
Thanks for flying by G'town, I enjoyed your stay big time. Have fun in East
London and hope you meet some Danish girls ;-)
Take care and good travelling!
To Shaun from PE, thanks for the special keyring, it's great!
Name: Noa'h Hakim
City, Country: Israel
Sent: 6.43 PM - 11/13 2001
Hello Ramon!!! I'm watchin' your site few monthes and I think it's wonderful
what do you do, I hope I could do it, but unfortunatly I'm a girl and it's a
bit dangeous :))
Anyway, I wanted to tell you that I'm leavin' in a kibbutz, which is special
way for location, only in Israel. It is like a small social community, like a
small village. And I wanted to invite you, of caurse, for you seeing this. Do
you want me to submit an invation or could I only leave my email address 4 u?
Bye bye Ramon,
hope you'll come to Israel
Noa'h
RAMON:
Thank you Noa'h! I can't tell you exactly when I'll hit Israel, but if you
invite me through my website, I will certainly remember your invite! Regards.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: East-London, South Africa
Sent: 12.26 PM - 11/13 2001
My mailinglist provider Coollist is currently experiencing difficulties with
sending out my mailings with the latest updates on the reports. New reports are
published, but nobody seems to receive those messages. I hope it will be fixed
soon...
Greetings from East-London!
Ramon
Name: Alan and Heather
City, Country: PE, South Africa
Sent: 3.59 PM - 11/12 2001
Hi Ramon
Hope that you enjoyed your stay in the "Friendly City" (PE)and that
you enjoy the champagne in Coffee Bay. Good luck from us both.
Name: Janske
City, Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 1.17 PM - 11/12 2001
Ramon, while reading your reports and looking at the photo's i'm gettin more
and more jealous. Great you survived the jump. And don't worry, weather in The
Netherlands is bad also and I'm struggling again with my schoolthings and
wished I had the same idea as you: run and live the life that you want to live!
I promiss myself my time will come, maybe we'll meet again in some country
then! Starting to miss you, Jans
Name: Alexander van Breemen
City, Country: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Sent: 12.37 PM - 11/12 2001
Keep up the good work!!!
The possibilities of the Net are really endless, just come up with a great idea
like yours!!
Name: Bob Williams
City, Country: Johannesburg, South Africa
Sent: 8.02 AM - 11/12 2001
As Ramon's main sponsor to South Africa, I thought I would clear up a few
points on his trip. My company, www.etravel.co.za sponsored his air travel, some
accommodation and the trip to the game reserve. We also arranged various press
interviews. And then we left him alone.
It was very important to us that the integrity of his "project" (as
Ramon calls it) remained intact and that he retained the ability to feel as
“free as a bird”.
I personally believe that Ramon has done more for the promotion of our
wonderful country than the relevant local tourist offices (which have remained
remarkable quite on the attention Ramon is getting). To all Ramon fans around
the world, please accept an open invitation to contact me if you need
additional information on visiting our Rainbow Nation. Here are a few cost
comparisons as a result of our weak currency:
A full restaurant meal for 2 with a good bottle of wine +-US$16
A good 3 star hotel per person sharing a double room per night +-US$20
A packet of 20 cigarettes (yes – smoking in public is banned here too)
+-US$1.15
We look forward to seeing you all soon but unfortunately we are unable to
sponsor your journey. Bob Williams bob@etravel.co.za
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban. South Africa
Sent: 6.19 AM - 11/12 2001
Well, Ramon is braver than I am. Well done for doing that jump! There is no
chance in hell that you'd catch me baling off a perfectly good bridge with a
piece of elastic around my ankles! And even less chance if I had to pay for it!
Well done, Ramon. You are brave. It's good to see that you are gradually
getting closer to Durban. Hopefully you'll be here before 10 December!
Keep safe.
Brian
Name: J
City, Country: Arnold, CA, USA
Sent: 1.02 AM - 11/12 2001
If people are passing on other traveller websites try www.bikeitsolo.com
wherean18/19 year old fellow bikes the length of the Pan American Highway,
solo. Picture Ramon on a bike, daily? How about it Ramon?
RAMON:
I am from a country where almost everybody has a bike and it is the most
logic element to travel short distances with. And I like to keep it that short
:-)
Name: Joao Paglione
City, Country: New York City, USA
Sent: 9.09 AM - 11/11 2001
Oh Ramon, I almost forgot.
Check out my website about my trip through the United States. I did it with my
friend in his 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. We traveled over 3500 miles and were
limited to 30mph uphill!!
www.trekshare.com/members/joao
Had to put in a plug for me, of course!
Name: Joao Paglione
City, Country: New York City, United State
Sent: 9.07 AM - 11/11 2001
Ramon,
Goede Tag! Good luck on the rest of your trip. I think you should go to
madagascar!
Name: karin
City, Country: casablanca, marroco
Sent: 12.41 AM - 11/11 2001
hey ramon, I just saw the bungy jump photographs. I can't believe that you just
jumped down the highest bungy jump in the world, I AM JEALOUS! How was it? Were
you scared? CAn't wait for more details?
By the way, IF you go to Spain, would you go down for Marocco?
Name: Han Neng
City, Country: Malaysia
Sent: 5.03 AM - 11/10 2001
Hi all,
Came across this website: http://www.jimrogers.com
About Jim Roger and Paige Parker travel the world in their Millennium Mercedes.
They are supported by Videographer Chris and Webmaster Fredrik Gorander, that
travel along with them.
The different is Jim and Paige project is sponsored by Hyatt Hotel Worldwide,
Mercedes-Benz car-maker.
Personally, I preferred Let-Me-Stay-For-A-Day project.
Name: Floris Waals
City, Country: Enschede, The Netherlands
Sent: 10.57 PM - 11/9 2001
Hi Ramon,
i guess you're not visiting the netherlands very soon, but still i would like
to see you around some day!
Have a nice trip, and i'll watch u!
grts from Enschede
Floris Waals
Name: Munk
City, Country: Zwolle
Sent: 11.54 AM - 11/9 2001
Hi Ramon, sooooooo, you're still basking in sunshine. Weather at 'home' is
totally fucked up. Yesterday had rain, snow and hail in one shower. Today wet
snow, freezing winds and temps around zero degrees C. Sounds like fun...
Wednesday sixteen students got kicked out of their appartments by Gemeente
Zwolle because the house was 'unsafe'. They were told to go to the salvation army.
Guess they're not going to invite you for a place to stay...
Name: J
City, Country: Arnold, CA USA
Sent: 7.12 AM - 11/9 2001
But Ramon my name is J,. Its just one letter. No hiding behind initials. I sign
everything J without a period.
J
Name: Alan
City, Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 7.31 PM - 11/8 2001
Hi,
I was absolutely delighted to read how nice a time you had in the Oak Tree
Cottage.
I really hope that it ahs helped to recharge your batteries, and you are good
to go for the rest of your journey!
Rgds
Alan
Name: Leslie & Mirjam
City, Country: Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
Sent: 7.29 PM - 11/8 2001
Thanks to the guys from overlanders. Ramon handed us the chilly, its really
HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOT
Name: LH
City, Country: England
Sent: 4.49 PM - 11/8 2001
Im a South African who lives in London. I came across your site today after
reading about you in the newspaper. I read all your SA daily reports.
Youve made me truly homesick for the first time since leaving SA 18 months ago,
and have given me a real urge to explore my own country. This is the first time
in a long time that I have felt proud of the people, culture and scenery that
SA has to offer.
A lot of people are negative (and ignorant) about SA and are too scared to go
there to travel. Thanks for giving SA a chance!
Good luck.
Name: J
City, Country: Arnold, CA, USA
Sent: 8.00 AM - 11/8 2001
Some folks watch TV. Some read books. I read Ramon. I continue to share your
story with my classes where I teach. There are a few now who ask about you, as
in "What's that travel guy doing today?" As mentioned a few messages
back recent pictures from SA have been awesome. I live in the middle of a
forest myself, but the views you have offered have allowed my eyes to travel to
other sceneries that aren't national parks or protected areas, just someones
daily backyard vista. I await your arrival in the US in a few years. I want to
give back a few meals for the energy you have sent my way.
J
Name: Darnell
City, Country: Long Beach, USA
Sent: 4.46 AM - 11/8 2001
You continue to wow us with your travels. I have three quick questions for you:
When do you do laundry?
RAMON: I try to do my laundry once a week, then I am out of clean
clothes. And of course I depend on hosts who can help me out with that. Until
now that way has been proven successful. So whenever you smell me coming...
You move from place to place with no time to really rest?
RAMON: Yes, it's an eternal vacation and that way not really a
vacation anymore. Sometimes I can be very tired, but I go on and wouldn't it be
boring if I started every daily report writing "I am so tired." Once
a week I try to find an extra day at a place and once a month even a bit
longer. I always say, if I just get enough sleep, I'll be back the next day.
Secondly, what do you think of the accents you keep hearing and do you think
that you are picking up a slight accent and use the use of common slang words
from each region you visit?
RAMON: People don't really notice that, I guess. In South Africa
people speak English and it sounds quite like the British English. But I
remembered visiting another country after visiting Ireland and people told me I
had an Irish accent. I might have, but I don't know. Maybe my ex-hosts know to
tell you that.
Lastly, during the month of November, Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, where
we take a moment to give thanks. On your trip, what do you think you are most
thankful for?
RAMON: The most thankful I am for all those people who have invited
me, where I stayed with and all those people who also invited me, to be visited
in the future. Not many people open their door to strangers that easy, you
know...
Name: Nelmarie - Ex host
City, Country: Bredasdorp
Sent: 9.54 PM - 11/7 2001
Ramon, I'm really sorry to hear that you will be leaving SA in two weeks
already. I've really tried my best to get more invitations for you from people
all over the country, I even called Huisgenoot. I hope you'll visit again in
the future. I've read Joan's messages on the messageboard, and I love the fact
that the rest of the world can see how amazing this country is. I hope Joan,
and Jeff, and all the other USA followers will invite you, because we would
also like to know more about USA as well as the rest of the world. Just
remember Ramon, that all the countries in the world is in some sort of war,
maybe a war between cultures, between political parties, or a silent war with a
neighbouring country - most of the time the citizens, the people who invite
you, are inocent victims, and would like you to visit their country too.....
just a thought! Safe travels, Ramon - we'll be following your journey!
RAMON:
Nelmarie, fortunately my flight leaving SA won't be that soon after all. The
latest news: I am on the waitinglist of departuring flights later than 20th
November. You'll find out when... Don't worry, I won't have to rush that
hard...
Name: Leslie en Mirjam
City, Country: Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
Sent: 9.41 PM - 11/7 2001
Hi Ramon,
How are u? Actually quite a silly question because you are staying with us now
in Plett and I know you are doing very well. Isn't life great here in Plett?
I think it is a great idea that you devide your time and stay both with private
and commercial accommodations. By staying at peoples private homes you get a
change to see what is going on in the South African families and by staying in
commercial accommodations you really get to see what's going on with all the
travellers in South Africa.
Just a final note: The concept of letmestayforaday is clever and well set up. Go
well,
Congratulations with finally winning a poolgame!
Mirjam & Leslie (the Dutchies)
Albergo for Backpackers
Name: Chuckie Cheese
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.51 PM - 11/7 2001
What the heck is a big filled stew?
Is it filled with Ostrich meat?
RAMON:
As you might know, stew can be anything, it's stewed in the pan. So imagine
it with meat, veggies, potatoes etcetera. And it can even be with Cheese,
Chuckie...
POSTINGS
BETWEEN 11/6 and 10/21 COULD NOT BE SAFED. SORRY.
Name: Martin van Tuijl
City, Country: Roden, The Netherlands
Sent: 11.39 PM - 10/22 2001
I demand benefit concert again very very soon!. With Wacko Jacko, Mick Jagger, Withney
Houston, Paul McCartney, Elton John, David Bowie, Eric Clapton, Billy Joel,
Destiny's Child, the Backstreet Boys, U2's Bono, The Who...etc etc
This for all the people who are in heavy pain, crying because they lost someone
very dear, suffering hunger, afraid for the winter, on the run, not knowing
what the hell is going on...
I demand a benefit concert for the people of Afghanistan!
God bless the people of Afghanistan.
'United
We Stand'
Name: Brian
City, Country: Los Angeles, California, USA
Sent: 11.32 PM - 10/22 2001
Ramon, please. Culture is not sacrosanct! Slave owners used to argue in the US
South that slavery was an integral part of their 'culture". They demanded
to be left alone! High caste Indians argue that the caste system is their
"culture." When Rosa Parks sat down in the white section of the bus
and refused to sit in the Black section of the bus she was violating Southern
"culture" which demanded separation, as in South Africa, and she was
arrested. When you argue that wearing a veil is "the culture" in
Moslem countries you are unintentionally aligning yourself with the most
reactionary elements of those societies who benefit from keeping people
(Blacks, untouchables, women) in their place with their definition of "culture."
We all often have to make choice in life between certain aspects of
"culture" and human rights, when those two dimensions of human
existence come in conflict. Kindest Regards, Brian
P.S. When someone takes you out for a hamburger they are treating you TO a
hamburger, not WITH a hamburger
Name: Rrrrrrroeland
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 10.51 PM - 10/22 2001
"If I say I respect religions, even though I am not religious myself, just
look at me sitting at this dinning with this black hosting family in their home
in a township of Stellenbosch in South Africa. And keep me sitting there."
Ramon, two thumbs up from my side. You probably could not have written that
response any better. Keep up, don't stop.
Name: Gary
City, Country: USA
Sent: 10.40 PM - 10/22 2001
Hi Ramon,
I too am an American, but I want you to keep wearing your pink sunglasses. I
read everything you write and feel like I'm sharing your adventure.
This type of world trip would not have been possible just a few years ago. You
are to be applauded for your gusto!
I am over 50 years old and reading your daily report and seeing the places you
travel help me realize that people your age are going to help make this world a
better place than they found it.
Your pictures are great! Keep up the fantastic journey. I'm also thinking about
adding our home to the list when you get to the US.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 10.39 PM - 10/22 2001
Joan,
I think Brett from SA is right on. I also think Sebastian from UK has a very good
point. So here's my two cents worth. Instead of overacting to someone's opinion
and posting a painfully long in response. Maybe you should do what I am
currently trying to do. Learn!! Learn about the people who did this and WHY!
Don't be surprised to find that the USA is partially (putting it nicely)
responsible for these same people.
Ramon....enjoying your journey and opinions as always. Waiting for that next
panorama to put together:-) Take Care.
Name: Janske
City, Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 10.02 PM - 10/22 2001
I totally agree with Salome from SA...!!!! Let-me-say-my-say-for-a-day.com!
Hihihi! Ramon: I'm missing you on your dutch weblog... hope you find time to
update it soon, good stories and nice talks.....
Name: Brett
City, Country: Cape Town, SA
Sent: 6.39 PM - 10/22 2001
Joan... In my opinion, the reason the U.S finds itself unpopular as a
self-purported "protector of all that is good and democratic" is that
it seemingly exercises muscle by over-reacting only when it's OWN interests are
directly affected. I have not evidenced much or any U.S intervention in recent
African conflicts (rather, gross infringements of human rights) particularly
not in Zimbabwe where a mad-man (Mugabe) is clearly on the loose. YOU therefore
need to look at the situation from another perspective to appreciate where
other views are coming from. As far as Ramon is concerned, he is entitled to
hold any view he wishes and coming from such a great democracy you ought to
know that!
Name: Coralie
City, Country: ENGLAND
Sent: 5.12 PM - 10/22 2001
Hi Ramon
Just thought I'd have a look to see how you are my friend...Hope you keep safe
and warm wherever you go ...and dont talk to strangers..lol
(((((hugs))))
Coralie
Name: Connie
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.08 PM - 10/22 2001
Hey Ramon,
First off, I love reading about your travels. Especially South Africa as I was
just there earlier this year. (I absolutely love the Amarula also!!!) Regarding
the letter you rec'd about the US/UK terrorist issues. I feel you, as well as the
rest of the world are entitled to your opinion. There are going to be people
who are for the attacks on Afghanistan and people who are against. This is YOUR
web site and you should be able to state whatever you you feel your beliefs
are. For those that don't like your opinion, well, don't return. It's as easy
as that. My feelings about this issue are different than many of my friends
feelings. We're still friends and respect each others opinion.
Keep up the great work and I look forward to more of your travel stories.
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 4.55 PM - 10/22 2001
Message to Johanna from France
I don't eat haggis either, which could be something to do with being English and
not Scottish. I think it has things like liver, sheep's pluck (whatever that
is), onions, suet and oatmeal in it. I originate from Somerset in the West
Country and down there we have faggots which are much more tasty and meaty (not
to be confused with the awful frozen variety) butcher's ones are much better!
What do you have in France? I bet you don't eat chicken's feet!
Regards
Sylvia
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 4.09 PM - 10/22 2001
Johanna, good point! Isn't it something with sheep intestins?
Name: Bram Floria
City, Country: Kyle, Texas, USA
Sent: 4.03 PM - 10/22 2001
Dear Ramon,
Thank you for posting all of Joan's message today. She hits on some important
points, and I'd like to offer you some real encouragement in your project. You
are quite correct that there is "other news" in the world. In fact,
your journals are the "good news we're not hearing" and I commend you
for bringing humane, optimistic, inspiring and touching stories about real
people. The story of Shumi's life was the kind of thing I was hoping to learn
from "Let me stay for a day" and I'm proud of you for taking the time
to hear it, and helping us to hear it too. Shumi is the kind of person who
truly holds the world together, with grace, determination, faith and (as we say
in America) "pluck."
As you and I corresponded before your journey began, I reminded you that your
new-found fame and media channel would make you an "expert" in many
people's eyes. Like it or not, your words will continue to be taken VERY seriously
by many. Your observations and thoughts on the world political situation are
just as much a part of your voyage of discovery, as are your descriptions local
customs, foods and languages. I've been interested not so much in what you
think about a subject on a given day, so much as HOW you are coming to those
conclusions. The whole world is watching you mature into a thoughtful and wise
young man. You are doing this in the only way possible - by venturing into a
world full of ideas, passions, beliefs, hatreds, jealousies, love, joy and
(most times) shared meals. These many people will help you find out who you
really are, what you really believe, and what you will commit yourself to.
Back to Joan's letter briefly... Sadly, I must agree that we've entered WWWIII,
and one that will have far-reaching consequences. Our government is now
prosecuting this war very quietly in many countries, against many, many targets
and groups. Dozens of nations are now involved in the fight - again very
quietly. The next few years will be a time of "wars and rumors of
wars." It will make your travels an even more unpredictable adventure, but
one that will remain fascinating - and necessary.
This "War on Terrorism" will also be the supreme issue which will, in
varying degrees, define the questions you face in every nation. It will be the
defining issue for a generation. Get ready to deal with it everywhere you go,
and to allow yourself to grapple with it as you study cultures and societies
throughout the world. Don't be afraid to tell what you are really feeling from
time to time, and surely let us know what people in these countries are really
feeling as well. It will help us to understand what to expect in the future as
this battle rages on.
Blessings to you,
Bram Floria
Kyle, Texas, USA
Name: Johanna
City, Country: France
Sent: 3.47 PM - 10/22 2001
Sylvia from Scotland;
How about your traditional dish: Haggis!
I seem to remember that has to do with intestins....
Let me know if I get it wrong!
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 3.12 PM - 10/22 2001
Thank you...
Love your reports, RS. If it weren't for those, this website wouldn't have the
same essence. It's you and your personality that makes this project what it is.
Thank you for your reports and willingness to respond to your audience-even
though THAT must get tiring sometimes.
Take
care
Name: Salome
City, Country: Table View, South Africa
Sent: 2.50 PM - 10/22 2001
Hello Ramon,
Maybe you should add another link to your page:
Let-me-say-my-say-for-a-day. Everyone writing Political essays can get rid of
the anger they have inside them on that page! Your reports are great - keep it
up ... and please don't just write about the weather ;-)
Hope to see you soon !
Salomé
- phone me !
Name: Lazer Guided Melodies
City, Country: Colony Woods
Sent: 1.55 PM - 10/22 2001
Always pleasant people. I realize that for someone to invite a stranger into
their home, they are naturally going to hospitable and friendly etc etc.
Sometimes it feels like their is not enough "real world" reports..
including some confrontation or disagreements, romantic interludes etc etc...
not that i wish that on the travelling dutchman. That seems to just happen on
the messageboard among the fans.. funny. Anyway, enjoy enjoy!! Oh yeah, and i
totally agree that political discussions are not appropriate here. Adidas!!
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 1.25 PM - 10/22 2001
Ramon as a trolley-dolley? Hmmm, as long as we get to see the pictures of him
in an air hostess uniform!
I would very much prefer this message board to be about Ramon's travels and all
the things he is experiencing. Ofcourse that does inlcude a certain amount of
politics, which is very interesting as well, as long as we don't get all those
long political statements from everyone.
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 1.16 PM - 10/22 2001
Hi Carinus
In reply to your message, no, we don't eat fish eyes, intestines, hippo,
crocodile. Here in Scotland we eat things like fresh salmon (minus the
head!)nice beef steaks, pork, beef, lamb and chicken (but only the breast and
legs, never the feet!
Regards
Sylvia
Name: Janske
City, Country: The Netherlands...
Sent: 1.01 PM - 10/22 2001
It doesn't really matters where he's heading.. as long as i can keep up with him!
I like the idea of the boat! It's just another way of travelling, I would like
to know what Ramon thinks of this! Working for a trip by boat or airplane. He
might be a good steward!
Name: carinus
City, Country: stellenbosch
Sent: 12.54 PM - 10/22 2001
Sylvia
Your wording "disgusting" in your letter deserves some clarification.
Do you eat fish-eyes, intestines, hippo, crocodile or not? Or are you adverse
to it? "disgusting" is a shit word. Shumi eats / sells it cos it is
an African delicay (and tradtion)
cheers, Carinus
We are still following your travels and found your story about Shumi very
interesting. What a hard life she must have had. I find the idea of cooking
chicken feet rather disgusting and the thought that people eat them much worse!
Bye for now
Love
Sylvia
Name: Janske
City, Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 12.53 PM - 10/22 2001
Sometimes I really have to laugh because of all the serious comments here. Not
because I think they're stupid but because they don't belong here. Ramon has a
funny way of reporting and messaging but now it looks like he has to guard and
protect the worldpeace... Gosh, I want more gossip and ridiculous things he
experiences during his travelling... I miss Ramon in my real life, here he is
sort of in my life again... don't spoil that with politics and worldproblems,
Ramon can't solve them!
Name: Erwan
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 12.45 PM - 10/22 2001
Ok, here's a non-political issue:
I just checked the country/invitations - list and I only see one other country
with an invitation in Afrika (Ghana)... it's obvious that Ramon won't be
travelling north through Afrika(as I hoped he would do).
Although South-Africa is interesting enough to stay at least another month I
wonder what Ramons next destination will be... I think he'll go East not West,
because he told us he wants to visit the US in the last part of his travels.
Offcourse this depends on what kind of offers he gets... I would like to see
him make a trip on a boat, a real boat like an oiltanker where he would have to
work to cross the ocean or something like that...
What's your opinion ? Where do you want Ramon to go ?
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 12.06 PM - 10/22 2001
Yep, Sebastian summed it up perfectly. Well done, mate. Ramon, don't let
politics get the better of you. You are strong, and we admire you hugely. I
think it was the band Five that said "Keep on moving".
Hamba
kahle
Brian
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 11.43 AM - 10/22 2001
Just read Sebastiaans message: totally agree!
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 11.42 AM - 10/22 2001
Am totally agreeing with Ramon (see online report 19/10) and Craig (see below).
Fair enough that people wanna express their feelings and statements, but
sometimes it does get a bot over the top (like Joan's report who seems to be
drawing conclusions when she shouldn't).
But hey, looks like we keep coming back to the ultimate statement: freedom of
speech for everyone!
Name: Sebastiaan
City, Country: Woking, UK
Sent: 11.41 AM - 10/22 2001
Hi all,
However much I like a healthy debate, I also like debates and comments to be in
the right and appropriate place.
If I want to discuss politics, I go to Salon.
If I want to discuss nonsense, I go to fark.com.
If I want to discuss a guy who travels around the world, I go here.
I like it here and think Ramon is doing a great job traveling around the world
using the internet. He is going to travel all over the world and will encounter
a lot of political views all over the place. Please don't allow yourself to
push him into one political view because he needs just what he's doing now:
stay neutral and tell us all about it!
Thanks Ramon for all the great reports!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Gordon's Bay, South Africa
Sent: 11.39 AM - 10/22 2001
Joan's writing is answered in the October 19 report. And I keep it with
that.
Name: Craig Handelsman
City, Country: Bloemfontein, South Africa
Sent: 8.43 AM - 10/22 2001
Isn't it a pity that some contributors, particularly, one Joan, from the USA
wants to exercise her right to enjoy the freedom of expression as rightfully
enshrined in her country's constitution; but at the same time protests most
vehemently when Ramon chooses to do likewise to express his own thoughts
freely.
I suggest that bit of open-mindedness on her part, and respect for the views of
others would be order.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.20 AM - 10/22 2001
Hi all
Ramon's comments about the old pass laws from way back when reminded me of the
situation in my very young days. It was indeed necessary for people to carry
their "pass", and it was used as an identity document.
It also reminds me of what a Belgian visitor was telling me about two weeks
ago. She said that, in Belgium, they have to carry their identity document with
them all the time.
Here in SA, most people don't carry their ID books, simply because they are
passport structure little books, and get destroyed in pockets, and in the
laundry. But we do have to carry our driver's licences if we are driving.
So, although the carrying of passes back in the 70's was a nuisance, the idea
seems to be quite popular, for various reasons. It is the reason in South
Africa in the 70's that was wrong. The carrying of some form of identity is
quite acceptable.
Still a nuisance, but apparently normal.
Regards
Brian
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.43 AM - 10/22 2001
J,
I agree, even drunks get a trial. But...........I do not feel these terrosists deserve
a trial. Sorry, that's just how I feel. If it were a declared war ahead of
time, and a war crime was committed, perhaps I'd feel they should go against a
war crimes tribunal..........but this was not a declared war when they attacked
the USA people and military and government. It was a clear act of terrorism.
Nor is it now a decalred war. All bets are off!
Sorry, this is not the forum for this, as this should be a "happy"
place discussing and sharing Ramon's travels. I just wanted to tell Ramon I disagreed
with his rose colored glasses. But we can chat, debate, in the chat room.
Joan
Name: J
City, Country: California, USA
Sent: 5.04 AM - 10/22 2001
Debate is healthy. I'm not sure what thebest plan is. Even drunk drivers who
kill in America get a trial, though their act may be considered
"cowardly".
The Christian Science Monitor is an international newspaper that tends to
present the world through the people who live in it, rather than from the
events and sensationalism.Their web site currently offers reprints of an Oct 18
article trying to explain where the attacks philosophically came from.
J
Name: Joan
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.37 AM - 10/22 2001
Ramon,
I think your travels are fantastic, but I think you are presenting an
idealistic view, and "trying" to impart that view on others. You want
to present a view that every culture is wonderful and "perfect"
because it is "their" culture.
I refer specifically, and unabashidly, to your obvious protests to the USA and
British "war" and bombing of the Afghanistan Taliban. You are correct
in telling your hosts who asked your opinion that this is NOT a war on the
Muslim religion, it is a war on religious extremists, the Taliban terrorists.
But you are wrong in saying, and continueing to quote Ghandi "An eye for
an eye makes the whole world blind".
I believe that this pacifist attitude is what allows the people like the
Taliban to continue. They DO NOT DESERVE to live in this world, and they do not
DESERVE any communication or negotiation from any modern day head of state or
country. Yes, I am an American, and a proud American. The Taliban performed a
COWARDLY act by planning and plotting the September 11th massacre on the World
Trade Center, the U.S. Military Headquarters "The Pentagon", (sometimes
people forget the U.S. Military WAS attacked!!), and potentially the White
House, home of the President od the USA, before the 4th plane was downed by
sacrificing civilians who realized what was happening. Had those people not
acted, most likely The Capitol building or the White House would have been hit
by that 4th plane. This was all clearly an attack on the USA, militarily and
governmentally. I think sometimes people just think it was an attack on
"office buildings in New York City!" WRONG!!!!!!!!!! It was an attack
on the USA people and military and government!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
THINK ABOUT IT! Thousands died in just hours, over what? Because Osama Bin
Laden and TERRORISTS do not like Western "influence"?? They prefer
the degrading and enslaving of women? They don't want any influence from a
modern world? They prefer living in the past, versus moving forward into the
21st century? I think this is not the peoples will, but the will of the few
extremists and "holier that thou" folks. My guess is the common folks
would love to be able to practice their religion in a MODERN world. Yep, I bet
even with the big old yellow M that you so despise!
How would people respond if there was a group of terrorist radicals in any
other country insisting on Medieval or Victorian dress and morals and religious
practices? It is not even HUMANE to force these women to wear the shrouds and
face masks, and the girls/women cannot attend school or work for a living. They
must remain "slaves", uneducated, and BEG on the street to feed the
children of the men who impregnate them.
For your information, please check this site:
http://www.rawa.fancymarketing.net/index.html
Muslims can live very peacefully in this world - it is the radicals that must
go. Just as Hitler was a radical. The USA has been the "melting pot"
of all cultures and religions for hundreds of years, and there is no problem
with that. We love the diversity and all that it has contributed to our
society. 200 years ago, had we had the current attitude of the Taliban, people
would have been persecuted for introducing their religions. (Yes, I know, we
had a problem with Witchcraft in early colonial times!)
The USA, as a world super power, does look out for its own economics and
safety, and for the safety of allies. The Middle East is a very volatile area,
and yes, of course, OIL is an issue. This was apparent in the Gulf War when all
the oil fields were set afire. We were able to get the invaders out of Kuwait,
but the enemy knew the issues, and set oil fields afire. Again, cowardly. Only
resulting in all the U.N sanctions against aid to innocent people, etc.
Innocent people suffer, in all of these cases. Just as in WWII. This IS WWIII,
but a whole different kind of war. A war against terrorists and COWARDS who
have invaded and infiltrated many countries. They could be your neighbors out
watering the lawn right now, who knows? This is not a war against Muslims or a
war against Afghanistan - it is a war against an undeground terrorist network.
They have done extensive damage for 15 years now, or more. They tried to topple
the World Trade Center before with bombs in the parking garage. They figured
out a new way to do it. Horrific!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The events of Sept 11th were the
last straw to the FREE world, as the saying goes. "No more negotiations,
no more communications, no more concessions! This is WAR!"
Do you REALLY think George W. Bush or any free world leader would sit down with
Bin Laden or any of his GANG and talk peace negotiations now? As if
"we" would trust Osama, and his murderers at a negotiating table?
When they struck Sept. 11th, they hit a nerve resonating around the world. I am
surprised you did not have that same nerve, quite frankly, as one who purports
people and freedom and peace! Surely you do not feel the people of Afghanistan
are free, and ready to "let-you-stay-for-a-day."? Any invitations
from Kabul?
I am a very tolerant person, and admire your travels, but I think you have a
view that everyone is beautiful and everyone is perfect and every culture is
perfect and every person is perfect. I think you have not yet met your bad
match yet. I hope you don't, as so far you have met great people and great
hosts. But someday you must take off those rose colored spectacles and realize
the world is not perfect, and "an eye for an eye is justified" right
now is the current situation. "An eye for an eye will make the world
blind" was a saying perhaps idealistic and hopeful at the time - but
unfortunately, not appropriate regarding the attrocities of September 11th.
Peace be with you and your hosts. Great travels, great hosts, great pictures. I
have learned much about the countries and the people.
Just don't be "blind" to the realities of this "new"
world!! It is not a war against a culture or a religion or a country - it is a
war against fanatics and terrorists.
I am not affiliated with any organization, I am just a citizen of the USA.
I have been following your site for many months, but felt I had to respond to
your anti-America anti-British sentiments regarding the military actions. You
are having a good time, but are not in touch with the big picture reality.
Perhaps you need to get on a jet to "Ground Zero!"?? Perhaps you need
to see what America has sufferrred?
I know, I know, all countries have sufferred over the years. Now is the time
for all good men to come to the aid of their countrymen! It's 2001! Time for
2001 culture, not year 1,000 culture! Times moves on, ya know? Throw off the
old repressive cultures and ways, and get with the 21st century. There is no longer
a time to tolerate the oppressions of the Taliban! There is no longer a time to
tolerate the terrorism and attrocities of the Taliban. We must all erradicate
this cancer, the terrorist underground, and work towards world peace. It IS
just like Hitler - be glad we won that war!
"An eye for an eye is a very good thing" regarding this
situation!!!!!!!!!
GOD BLESS AMERCIA, and all the FREE WORLD!!!!!!!!!!
Down with people of all cultures and nationalities being oppressed and
terrorized!
And also for you Roman, you say you are not a religious person. I would think
you would be more open to peace amoung all men/women, versus religious
fanaticism! These "wars" are about religious fanaticism! Sorry for
the seemingly weak term, but this is "rediculous!" to me that you
would feel this way. You speak with forked tongue. One time you say you are not
religious, the next time you say these religions and cultures need to have
their way. Decide. Are you pro Taliban or not? Frankly, I cannot tell from your
posts.
Regards, and thanks again for all your travel updates and pictures. I am NOT an
"enemy", just asking for some clarifications! J
Joan
Name: Sylvia (past host)
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 12.14 AM - 10/22 2001
Ramon
We are still following your travels and found your story about Shumi very
interesting. What a hard life she must have had. I find the idea of cooking
chicken feet rather disgusting and the thought that people eat them much worse!
Bye for now
Love
Sylvia
Name: Martine
City, Country: Belgium
Sent: 2.26 PM - 10/21 2001
Really like what you're doing!Hope I can do it too some day...Just want to wish
you good luck and loadsa fun! Bye!
Name: Truth
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.57 AM - 10/21 2001
Gossip? Who wants gossip? I just want to see what kind of crackpot will write
what kind of psycho statement next -- any day now I am expecting to get a true
and honest clue that will open up the meaning of life to me...ha ha ha !!! Have
a great day, everyone! :-)
Name: Rich
City, Country: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Sent: 10.30 PM - 10/20 2001
Just for the record Ramon, I have been travelling around quite a lot of the
world for six years, not just North America. I must add that I spend quite a
lot of time telling travellers from all over the world that young Americans of
today are really very good people who do far less damage to the places and
cultures that they encounter than most other travellers. They tend to be quite
open minded and very interested and respectful of other people. UNLIKE most
other nationalities, South Africans included.
Name: Aaron
City, Country: Turkey
Sent: 8.13 PM - 10/20 2001
It's one of the most original ideas that I have ever seen. As all of you
adventurers I have also dreamed for a travel on my own, but it's about having
free-time and being a free individual. Ramon you are like IAN WRIGHT from
Discovery Channel Lonely planet. I used to dream that I would one day travel
like him, and now I see an individual with enough courage to establish a dream.
NICE JOB man, I'll surely be trying the same one day!
Name: Jane
City, Country: Basel, Switzerland
Sent: 7.01 PM - 10/20 2001
Anyone read "Round Ireland with a Fridge" by Tony Hawks? I think
Ramon's journey will be bigger and better - can't wait for the book (however, I
do highly recommend reading Hawks' book in the meantime, especially if you are
into low-budget travel). Happy travels and come visit us in Switzerland!!!
Name: Gianfranco
City, Country: Roma,Italy
Sent: 6.50 PM - 10/20 2001
Hi all!! Ramon,when you will came in Italy? We are waiting for
you......Spaghetti Forever
Name: Carla
City, Country: Somerset West, South Africa
Sent: 5.39 PM - 10/20 2001
I must admit that playing Ramon's 'host' has been wonderfully painless: in
fact, I find his strong opinions, open-mindedness and dedication inspiring.
He's spent six hours in my office working like a man possessed today - thank
you for making me work too, Ramon! Stop talking so much! And please do not
become a politician! Kidding, kidding, great to meet you!
RAMON: Become a politician? Nahh, that's nothing for me... I am still
blonde!
Name: carinus
City, Country: stellenbosch, south africa
Sent: 2.19 PM - 10/20 2001
rich: stink on happily. englishmen are not permitted in this heimat of
afrikanerdom
Name: Rich
City, Country: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Sent: 12.25 AM - 10/20 2001
Carinus - Get a haircut you opinionated Afrikaner!!!
Also, coffee is on you tomorrow!
Ramon, how was Shumi's? We are waiting in anticipation...
Name: michael
City, Country: stellenbosch, south africa
Sent: 5.57 PM - 10/19 2001
Karen: do u think Carinus would be talking thruth?
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 4.48 PM - 10/19 2001
The difference is: sex is/can be great and if there is romance involved, the
sex can be even better and you can also have romance without sex. What a
statement for a Friday afternoon...
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 3.15 PM - 10/19 2001
Ramon! Just to clarify: we are here for loadse gossip (ofcourse, we are human
beings after all) and for interesting travel stories and everything related to
that. Have to admit it is still a pleasure following you around. And cannot
wait for the report from your stay at Carinus place...;-)
Name: dalr
City, Country: nz
Sent: 3.03 PM - 10/19 2001
check out this site if you want to make a few bucks anywhere in the world!!
http://xxxxxx.xxxxx.xxx/~dalr/index.htm
RAMON:
Sorry, Dalr, you can't do that here. Can't you read people are only waiting for
gossip here? :-)
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 2.11 PM - 10/19 2001
Go on, tell us more (you can make something up, who cares)! Wonder if Ramon is
happy with his fanclub?
Name: Janske
City, Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 1.24 PM - 10/19 2001
Romantic can mean different things. In the Artworld it means something else
than just candles and candlelight - Ramon knows what I mean with
'Candlelight'... - and considering Ramon's romantic ways: I remember a poem! (and
more....)
Name: billy
City, Country: japan
Sent: 1.04 PM - 10/19 2001
Aha, the gossip has started! Anybody else from his homeland wants to write
about Ramon? Woohaahaa!
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 12.13 PM - 10/19 2001
See, the thing is, it could be true what you are telling me now or it could be
a bit of a wind-up...
Name: carinus
City, Country: stellenbosch, south africa
Sent: 9.38 AM - 10/19 2001
ramon is very romantic, i discovered it for myself just the nite before
last...:)
RAMON:
Well, Carinus, you know what a terrible stories I heard about those single Stellenbosch
University women. I thought I even was vey protective... ... ...
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 9.18 AM - 10/19 2001
See, these stories are getting more interesting! Am looking forward to your
next report Ramon, have to say that my kolleagues are pretty impressed with
your travels, specially as you made it all the way to SA! Well done and fingers
crossed for the future.
Name: Kim
City, Country: Zwolle, Holland
Sent: 8.42 AM - 10/19 2001
I can jump in at Janske's story, about the romantic side off Ramon. I've had
the pleasure of going on a date with Ramon a few times myself. Offcourse this
was before his world wide fame, when I was still young and vulnerable for his
smooth talks. I've grown over that and am still in contact with Ramon, so
that's says enough, doesn't it!? And who wants to know how romantic he really
is, should offer him to stay for a night......
Name: carinus
City, Country: south africa
Sent: 7.50 AM - 10/19 2001
to the people in welgemoed, thanks for the bottle of welmoed wine...it was had
that same evening here at home, and a babelas reminded us the whole of thenext
morning, when we were doing interviews with eikestadnuus, dieburger, as well as
MFM (local university radio station...) ramon slept a second nite in
stellenbosch, at a very interesting place, which he will tell you all about in
due course...ciao
carinus
Name: carinus
City, Country: south africa
Sent: 7.27 AM - 10/19 2001
Karen said: "...travels, but hey, that is my personal opinion" -
well, Ramon is vey opinionated, and thats his way of doing it.....
Name: Denver
City, Country: USA
Sent: 6.07 PM - 10/18 2001
Sounds good to me, Karen! :)
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 4.13 PM - 10/18 2001
See, that message from Janske is interesting, especially the 'romantic' bit...I
know some of us are dying for some romance on Ramons travels but I guess, as
Ramon stated himself, that we have to wait for the book, if he is ever gonna
mention it in there!
I personally am getting a bit tired of all the messages about love, peace,
understanding and what is wrong with the world bla bla bla. Would be nice if we
could focus a bit more on Ramons travels, but hey, that is my personal opinion.
Name: Denver
City, Country: USA
Sent: 4.05 PM - 10/18 2001
Wow, in one day the board exploded. :) I've been reading the past postings, and
I am also confused by LSOM's messages. It's evident that he finds it hard to
expess himself in English, (at least according to what I see) but that also may
be a factor when he is trying to understand what exactly he is reading on here.
My ultimate message is to think about the word "tolerance". You may
have to tolerate some things in this world that you don't agree with or like,
but you have to respect that there ARE differences and attacking those who are
different will never lead us anywhere. We've already proven that with slavery,
apartheid, suffrage, etc. An advanced earth will accept differences in people
and respect them all. What would the world be if we were all the same? Quite
boring I would imagine.
Name: Janske
City, Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 3.29 PM - 10/18 2001
I was planning to post a nice message just to let my friend Ramon know that I
think of him and I recalled why I don't watch too much of his travellingphotos:
I get more and more jealous! Wow, Ramon, you're experiences around the world
create a better education than anyone of us can ever get at school! That's also
why I'm so surprised to find those messages of that LSOM about you. I thought
you're travelling made clear that you can only judge over people and things you
have experienced yourself. But LSOM's messages make it clear to me again that
the world is more stupid than a donkey! We hit our heads several times and
still we haven't learned! For all those who are wondering what kind of guy
Ramon is: I met him at school in The Netherlands four years ago and although I
had my doubts about several of his plans - including this one - I'm proud I
know him as a wonderful, nice, openminded, romantic, culture-minded and
sometimes overactive man. Hear from you soon? X
Name: Didem
City, Country: Ýstanbul, TURKEY
Sent: 2.18 PM - 10/18 2001
This is really amazing. What you are doing is what I have always wanted to do.
Congratulations for your courage and interest. It would be my pleasure to see
you in Turkey
Name: Tonie
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 2.00 PM - 10/18 2001
Good LSOM, I think you can need a good night of sleep...
Name: Me Again.
Sent: 1.57 PM - 10/18 2001
Tonie'
I know I am not in the wrong forum.
What is the meaning of COMMUNICATION? The most abused word and are confusing.
Good day or good nite or whatever or wherever you are I need a break. My
apology if its hurt and please think about the word you said,"TOO
PRIVATE".
And its real bye now maybe tomorrow.
With love Always,
Leonard.
Sent: 1.46 PM - 10/18 2001
By the way, LSOM, there is a chatbox on this site too... Just chat with Ramon
live!
Name: Tonie
Sent: 1.42 PM - 10/18 2001
LSOM, have you read Ramon's response to your earlier writing? It's written
below it and I agree with Ramon TOTALLY!
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Malaysia
Sent: 1.37 PM - 10/18 2001
Dear Karen,
I am not angry or mad but just want to put it across in an good and appropriate
manner. Don't sidelined people who yearned for more info or knowledge.
Greeting to you Karen. Anyway practice makes perfect.
and those practices must be for the GOODNESS of mankind.
Name: Tonie (not The Tonie)
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 1.37 PM - 10/18 2001
If you want to know so badly what the @ stands for in your emailaddress, why
don't you ask that to a technician at your provider. It's clearly the wrong
place to ask that question here and express your anger like you do!
Name: Alberto
City, Country: Italy
Sent: 1.34 PM - 10/18 2001
Dear LSOM,
I advice you the get a life, before you drown in your seas of flowers and other
bla bla. I can imagine Ramon deleting some of your postings because THEY ARE
hard to understand. I couldn't read the message Love your neighbour in that
'deleted' message! Why don't you just write it in clear forms?
And I find it very CHEAP of you to insult another person in his messageboard.
If you don't agree with the rules ("don't publish personal information like
your emailaddress"), go find a bulletin board where you can address your
feelings and thought.
Psychologicly seen I think you are very depressed in the world you live in
(hey-that's is an opinion, as Ramon always clears his').
And if you don't want to invite Ramon to your home anymore, be happy and see if
you can open your door for anybody else. It's a pity to be wasting time here
(and even PROMOTE YOUR BOOK!), just as I am doing that right here too.
Just had to loose that thought...
Take care you all!
Name: LSOM
City, Country: MALAYSIA
Sent: 1.30 PM - 10/18 2001
Dearest PAT BUCHANAN,
Good day to you.
Maybe being a good senior adviser to 3 presidents and so so can tell me what
that '@' stands for in an email address. I believe I have something in replace
for that which can remind people about being one (1) and also for the
betterment of mankind. Keep in touch. Talk soul to soul.
With love always,
Leonard.
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 1.17 PM - 10/18 2001
How mad can you get?
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 1.15 PM - 10/18 2001
Dedicated to LINA of Panama, Bert of USA and all of you fellow friends.
My 20 years project still stands and its flame is burning inside me. Those 9
principLEs of Living will forever live even until the end of time. I believe
that until we change those deserts into seas of flowers then and only we can
have JUDGEMENT DAY. Who do you think he is that knows how to judge and say TOO
PRIVATE in his comment to Joey below. I welcome mail - good or bad. They are my
resources of LIVING in this beautiful world. My e mail is [xxxxxxx@xxxxxx.xxx]
Share and share alike. Everything is free or put that in a bin and still it is
not a trash becoz' it is still in this world. Don't track Ramon too much. He is
a nut IF he talks about quantity not quality. Might as well draw a bulleye on
his head and have darts thrown so as we can figure it out what he is thinking.
And I am very annoyed as my request of what the '@' have to do in an email
address stand for being deleted. He is not sharing, he is hiding something for
materialism which is bad for the SOULS of those departed. I should be brave to
voice this becoz' its our very duty to be HONEST. In actual fact, I have
something in replace for the '@' which can remind eveyone in this educated
corner of the world to be good. Tell me you are facing ME now and I must talk
the truth nothing else but the truth. Maybe you don't see my previous postings.
I insist that with your help ask him to install those postings under LSOM
because they are meant for others who yearn for knowledge which can heal the
world.
A posting which stated clearly about LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR should be deleted? He
can enter MALAYSIA but not my HOME. I promise I will never leave this
messageboard without a free and true honest view of others. I believe thats
what anyone with a clear conscience talks and never resort to being punched in
the nose.(Precious blood have lost - poor mum seeing his son bleeds for the
sake of being a gentleman)
Name: Pat Buchanan,
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.01 PM - 10/18 2001
As per yesterdays discussin between some?
"Why do they hate us?"
A month after the massacres, and the ugly scenes of Arabs and Moslems cheering
the wounding of America, millions are still asking the question:
What did we do that they should hate us so?
Last week, the president professed himself "amazed" to "see that
in some Islamic countries there is vitriolic hatred of America." "I'm
amazed that there's such misunderstanding of what our country is about that
people would hate us ... like most Americans, I just can't believe [it].
Because I know how good we are."
But if they misunderstand us, do we also misunderstand them?
National Review says we are "hated ... because we are, indeed, powerful,
rich, and good." Other journalists and politicians say we are hated
because we are a democracy, with freedom of speech, of the press, and of
worship, as though bin Laden's cave-dwellers had stumbled onto a copy of the
Bill of Rights, and gone berserk.
Now, nothing can justify the atrocities of Sept. 11. Nor need we hear out
unctuous plea bargains for those who murdered 5,000 of our countrymen in a
crime that dwarfs the evil for which Timothy McVeigh was rightly put to death.
But after the Taliban go down and bin Laden is run to earth, America had best
reflect before launching a second Cold War. We need to know why scores of
millions of Arabs hate us. Why does the Islamic sea seem so hospitable to the
likes of Osama? Why do crowds from the Philippines to Pakistan to Palestine
riot for the Taliban? Why are all the Islamic nations so reluctant to back us?
And if we truly wish to know why they hate us, ought we not listen to them?
For as the poet Robert Burns wrote, the greatest of gifts is to "see
ourselves as others see us." How do the Arab and Islamic peoples see us?
How do we appear in their eyes?
In the imams' indictment, here are America's alleged sins:
First, America props up puppet regimes of parasite-princes who squander the oil
wealth of Arabia in the fleshpots of the West. Second, U.S. presence on Saudi
soil defiles the land on which sit the holy places of Mecca and Medina. Third,
we pollute their culture and countries with drugs, alcohol, abortions,
blasphemous books, filthy magazines, dirty movies and hellish music that
capture and corrupt their young. Fourth, we starve Iraqi children with
sanctions, because Saddam defies U.N. resolutions, as we give Israel the
weapons to defy the U.N., persecute Palestinians and deny them the liberty we
champion.
To those who hate us, it is America that is the Evil Empire. To some
commentators, it is un-American even to repeat such charges. Yet, it seems
unintelligent not to. For as Sun Tzu wrote: "Know thy enemy, know
thyself, in a thousand battles, a thousand victories." If we must fight
these people the rest of our lives, we should know why they hate us – and we
delude ourselves if we believe the slaughters of Sept. 11 came about because we
are "good."
Inhuman as these crimes were, they were not "senseless" or
"irrational." They were purposeful acts of political terror.
Having seen how Reagan pulled out of Lebanon after the Marine massacre, how
Clinton pulled out of Somalia after Mogadishu, bin Laden believes we have less
staying power than the Red Army that left Afghanistan after a decade of
bloodshed and 15,000 dead.
Terrorism is a weapon employed for centuries by the weak, the desperate, the
fanatic, for a reason: It works. Consider three recent Nobel Peace Prize
winners. In 1946, Menachem Begin blew up the King David Hotel, full of British
nurses, to force the Brits out of Palestine. They left. His Irgun perpetrated
the massacre at Deir Yassin in April of 1948. The Palestinians fled, as he had
hoped.
Nelson Mandela was not sentenced to life in prison for a sit-in at the
Five-and-Dime. His ANC "necklaced" its enemies, i.e., the burning to
death of selected individuals by forcing gasoline-soaked motor tires around
their arms and neck, and the ANC prevailed through terror. Arafat's PLO was a
nest of organizations, all of which, including his own Fatah, committed acts of
terror. And, in part, through such acts, Hezbollah drove the Israelis out of
Lebanon and Arafat brought them to Oslo.
The goal of bin Laden is to drive America out of his region by first drawing us
deeper in. And, as one reads of new U.S. security ties to Uzbekistan, promises
to rebuild Afghanistan, new pledges to Pakistan, and commitments to help
resolve the Palestinian conflict, one wonders if bin Laden's lasting
achievement will not have been to draw the American Empire into a vast second
Vietnam, from Algeria to Afghanistan, as a prelude to driving us out
of his world forever.
Let us pause and think before plunging into another Big Muddy.
RAMON:
Pat Buchanan has been a senior adviser to three presidents, twice a
candidate for the Republican presidential nomination and the presidential
nominee of the Reform Party in 2000. Currently Mr. Buchanan is a talkshow host,
columnist and author. I am thankful for his open comments.
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 12.15 PM - 10/18 2001
PLEASE install those very message/posting or I will only stop when I feel
necessary because everything is free. Nobody should be deprived of the freedom
of good thoughts. [...]
I think you all are cowards and greedy. I am in one of the three mirrored
identical buildings doing good cause. Find me and hopefully I have time for you
all.
[...]
One thing for sure you will never be invited into my very HOME because you do
not want to. We share the same destiny! But you think only about MONEY. Your
book can't sell and that for sure. Camera never lies!
And you SMOKE! Bad for your thoughts. And you are not patient either and drinks
too. If I am going to continue I will miss my HEAVEN. I think I give a fair
amount of CLUES to be TRUE and HONEST.
RAMON:
Dear LSOM,
Your postings have been deleted or shortened as I personal don't understand
your intentions of all your lines. Even my backup team supports me with that. I
even receive emails from people with questions about your postings.
To call me and my best friends cowards and greedy is a free thought, but those
postings can be seen insulting if you don't give your free arguments for that
in a way that everybody can understand it.
It's strange of you to conclude that I only think about MONEY, especially if I
travel around the world NO-BUDGET and my website costs more than I could bear,
but I thank my sponsors for helping me out with that.
Yes, and I sometimes enjoy a cigarette but I don't promote smoking. I know it's
bad and it is my own stupidity that I still smoke. But you should respect each
others differences and not just call it bad "or you will miss your
heaven" (another thing that has no logic without clear explanation). I
don't understand where you get the thought that I am not patient? That's the
only thing I have to be during my travelling. Yes, I drink too, but I am always
the guest of some host, who of course might take me out for a drink. Is that
WRONG? Is that immediately HELL?
It might be in your culture, but you have to respect differences between
people. That's one thing to remain in peace with eachother.
Calling names and writing these statements only makes me disrespect you and
your thoughts. You are free to give CLUES to be TRUE and HONEST, but do it in a
respectful way so everybody understands.
Name: Bruno Hughes
City, Country: Paris, France
Sent: 11.42 AM - 10/18 2001
Congratulations for your idea!
Can you talk a little more about Ireland,
Dublin and irish people...
It's very interesting for me.
Many thanks... and good luck!
Name: True
City, Country: America
Sent: 4.18 AM - 10/18 2001
Editorial from a Romanian newspaper:
Why are Americans so united? They don't resemble one another even if you paint
them! They speak all the languages of the world and form an astonishing mixture
of civilizations. Some of them are nearly extinct, others are incompatible with
one another, and in matters of religious beliefs, not even God can count how
many they are.
Still, the American tragedy turned three hundred million people into a hand put
on the heart. Nobody rushed to accuse the White House, the army, the secret
services that they are only a bunch of losers. Nobody rushed to empty their
bank accounts. Nobody rushed on the streets nearby to gape about. The Americans
volunteered to donate blood and to give a helping hand. After the first moments
of panic, they raised the flag on the smoking ruins, putting on T-shirts, caps
and ties in the colors of the national flag. They placed flags on buildings and
cars as if in every place and on every car a minister or the president was
passing.
On every occasion they started singing their traditional song: "God Bless
America!".
Silent as a rock, I watched the charity concert broadcast on Saturday once, twice,
three times, on different TV channels. There were Clint Eastwood, Willie
Nelson, Robert de Niro, Julia Roberts, Cassius Clay, Jack Nicholson, Bruce
Springsteen, Sylvester Stalone, James Wood, and many others whom no film or
producers could ever bring together. The American's solidarity spirit turned
them into a choir. Actually, choir is not the word. What you could hear was the
heavy artillery of the American soul. What neither George W. Bush, nor Bill
Clinton, nor Colin Powell could say without facing the risk of stumbling over
words and sounds, was being heard in a great and unmistakable way in this
charity concert.
I don't know how it happened that all this obsessive singing of America didn't
sound croaky, nationalist, or ostentatious! It made you green with envy because
you weren't able to sing for your country without running the risk of being
considered chauvinist, ridiculous, or suspected of who-knows-what mean
interests.
I watched the live broadcast and the rerun of its rerun for hours listening to
the story of the guy who went down one hundred floors with a woman in a
wheelchair without knowing who she was, or of the Californian hockey player,
who fought with the terrorists and prevented the plane from hitting a target
that would have killed other hundreds or thousands of people. How on earth were
they able to bow before a fellow human?
Imperceptibly, with every word and musical note, the memory of some turned into
a modern myth of tragic heroes. And with every phone call, millions and millions
of dollars were put in a collection aimed at rewarding not a man or a family,
but a spirit which nothing can buy.
What on earth can unite the Americans in such a way? Their land? Their
galloping history? Their economic power? Money? I tried for hours to find an
answer, humming songs and murmuring phrases which risk of sounding like
commonplaces. I thought things over, but I reached only one conclusion.
Only freedom can work such miracles!
Name: Joey
City, Country: Hermosa Beach, CA, USA
Sent: 5.19 PM - 10/17 2001
Hi all. I just found this site today and i am quite impressed. Fantastic. I
just read the reports for the last week or so. Intrigueing. Has Ramon found any
romance in his travels yet? I realixe he is only in each place for a day or 2..
but you never know. So..?
RAMON:
Well, Joey, you won't find that information online, it's too private as you
might understand. But it might give you a good reason to read The Book whenever
I have written it... :-)
Name: Melvin Kale
City, Country: Wolverhampton, UK
Sent: 12.02 PM - 10/17 2001
Hello Ramon, your attempt has stimulated my adventurist spirit.
Congratulations! I'd invite you if I had my own house. But as an au pair I live
with my host family. Maybe I can do this when I come back to Turkey, can't I?
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.35 AM - 10/17 2001
Hi Ramon
I've just read your 13 October report. A great big huge THANK YOU for saying
all that good stuff about SA. Your words should be immortalised in the
international media.
It is so rare when someone actually realises that, although some people are
financially poor, they still have a happy life.
I have been showing some Belgians around, and they too were surprised when I
told them some things. Electricity in the squatters' shacks, for example, is
unexpected. I get the impression that the international media portray white
South Africans as being a group of extremists that force black South Africans to
live in squalor without basic amentities.
Thanks to you, all those who read your reports will be more enlightened. Yes,
there is a history behind this, but the fact remains that this country is
improving. People are getting running water, electricity, tar roads,
telephones, etc.
Although financially poor, the squatters in this country have, in some
respects, a better life. They have a freedom that cannot be understood or
appreciated by most "non-squatters".
As for the act of offering transport to domestic workers, someone fed you wrong
information. Many South Africans of all colours offer transport to their
domestic workers, either to their homes, or to the train station or bus
terminal. It has been like that for years, and will probably continue to be
like that for many more years.
Once again, a huge big THANK YOU for showing the world what is going on here.
Yes, there is crime, and yes, we do live behind locked gates and high walls,
but it is only a very small pecentage of the population that is criminal. The
vast majority of us are peaceful, respectful, and honest people, trying to have
less month remaining at the end of the money.
Hamba kahle, Ramon, and we'll meet in Durbs!
Brian
Name: Robin
City, Country: Cape Town, South Africa
Sent: 10.56 PM - 10/16 2001
Its really difficult to write a message when Ramon is looking over your
shoulder. Ok hes gone now, i can write what i feel, by the time he reads this
he will far away where he cant hurt me. Jokes, Ramon, good luck with your
travels and I wish you well.
Name: Sabadoobee
City, Country: USA
Sent: 8.36 PM - 10/16 2001
Adventurous Dutchman
Peaceful open hearted people
There is hope
Name: Patrick & Karin Seeton (Gordon's Bay)
City, Country: Western Cape
Sent: 5.36 AM - 10/16 2001
Got your telephone message, Ramon. Sunday is open. Just pitch or call for a
lift from Stellenbosch if you need one. Cheers Patrick
Name: Arjan
City, Country: Houtbay, Cape Town
Sent: 12.07 PM - 10/15 2001
Hi Denise,
sorry, I forgot to thank you for your gift. Thanks so much for your flowers and
the seeds - they will take some time but we did sow them yesterday.
regards
bee, arjan and thomas
Name: Brian
City, Country: Cape Town, South Africa
Sent: 9.56 AM - 10/15 2001
Hi there Denise!
Well I'm so glad you, and especially Ryan, enjoyed the gift! I hope that his
boiled eggs never falls out of his wired hen! I would also like to thank Di and
Jon for the chameleon - its really super and looks great on my window sill.
And Ramon, have you found your recharger? afraid it's not at my place... Well,
the pics look fantasic and really captured a part of Cape Town that I love.
as for the rest of your journey - enjoy!
Name: Denise Eysele
Sent: 8.05 AM - 10/15 2001
Dear Ramon
It was lovely having you as our guest and I learned a lot from you even though
you are much younger. I was amazed at how you remember everything (as I do talk
a lot as you have mentioned) you never wrote anything down during conversations
but still managed to capture the essence of what was said. We want to invite
you to feel free to call us anytime you are in the vicinity again. Ryan keeps
asking wher Ramon is and why Ramon went to stay with other people. I hope you
have a wonderful time in the Western Cape and that you will love it so much you
would not want to leave for a long time. God bless.
Name: Denise Eysele
City, Country: Brackenfell , South Africa
Sent: 8.01 AM - 10/15 2001
Dear Brian
Thank you so much for the lovely gift you sent with Ramon for us. My son was
thrilled as he loves boiled eggs and could not wait to use it. It now
officially belongs to Ryan. Thank you once again you could not have chosen a
more perfect gift.
Name: Arjan
City, Country: Houtbay, Cape Town
Sent: 7.10 AM - 10/15 2001
Hi Ramon,
Good to meet you and have you over in Cape Town. Hope you will have a wonderful
stay in South Africa and that the invites will continue to poor in. Was great
to show you around Houtbay and Mandela Park. Keep up the good work!
Arjan
PS - have subscribed to your mailing list
Name: Chiara Furiani
City, Country: Terni, Italy
Sent: 12.00 AM - 10/15 2001
I would advise as many people as possible all over the world, to do exactly
what you are doing.
Maybe then many more persons would learn to tolerate and respect other
cultures, they would see what is in common and not what is different between
human beeings.
Maybe then there would be a real chance for peace.
Just imagine if each American person had an Afghan friend....
Maybe all the mighty and rich "politicians" in the world and all the
people who think they're right...would have thought it over...
before sending planes against the towers...
but also before dropping bombs on people....
Name: Snoopy
City, Country: Taipei, Taiwan
Sent: 1.41 PM - 10/14 2001
My boyfriend recommend your website for me.
I do admire and like your fascinating traveling ideas.
Just wanna say HELLO and wish you good luck.
Hope you have chance to visit my country, Taiwan.
There will be so many great things to see and to enjoy in Taipei.
Name: Di Cooper
City, Country: Rondebosch East, Cape Town, South Africa
Sent: 1.10 PM - 10/14 2001
Hi Ramon
Hope you are doing well and having a good time in C.Town. We looked up your
website and it was good to see what you had written about us on October 9+10
and the pictures are lovely.
Enjoy the rest of your stay!
Name: Tom Huntington
City, Country: USA
Sent: 9.34 AM - 10/13 2001
Just read your post from Oct. 8th where you give us a taste of Cape Town,
including your "communication challenge" with Ludo. I really love your
writing, and I love the sincerity and honesty about life that comes through in
your sharing of yourself and your adventures. I have a very full life, and I
don't read most of the email newsletters I often get, but I am enriched by
taking the time to read of you and your adventures. Keep it up.
Name: angela bray
City, Country: south africa
Sent: 2.16 PM - 10/12 2001
Have invited you to THE KRAAL, you have to come. Am not sure if I sent the
invitation correctly, hope so. Look forward to seeing you
Name: Brian
City, Country: Cape Town, South Africa
Sent: 1.53 PM - 10/12 2001
Hi Ramon,
I hope you had fun while you stayed with me and that you are not as burnt as I
am now!! and yes, I still have my job - joy!
Enjoy the rest of Cape Town and what it has to offer and may the rest of your
journey bring you new and interesting experiences. Thanks again for the good
time, it was really cool.
Take care and feel free to visit any time again!
Brian
Name: Bapa
City, Country: London, England.
Sent: 1.31 PM - 10/12 2001
Hi Ramon - Yo Dude!
Hope you are enjoying your visit to Sunny South Africa. But, may I ask if you
will be staying with just white people? I think that because 90% of the
population of South Africa is not white, you will not experience the real South
Africa if you only stay with white people!! Sorry to criticize, but I think it
is an important point...
Will you be meeting Nelson Mandela? Maybe that would be possible, indeed it
would be amazing!
And finally, will you be going to any other countries in Africa? Maybe you can
portray a more positive image of Africa and her people than the negative image
of this great continent we often have here in the West.
Peace dude!
Bapa.
P.S. Be sure and try the 'malawi cob', I think you will enjoy this experience
very much dude! :)
RAMON:
Firstly: I don't know anything about the people I stay with when I
contact them by telephone. A name in my database doesn't really give skin
colours and I am quite happy with that. It's absolutely untrue that I would only
go for 'white' people, it just happened to be like that until now.
Yes, I'd love to meet Nelson Mandela. But I don't think I'd be that
priviledged. I am just a world-web wanderer.
To visit other countries in Africa I do depend on invitations from those
countries. Until now: 1 invite from Ghana, Egypt, Namibi and Mozambique... That
doesn't really make it possible to travel to these countries the way I do, I
must say...
Name: Wendy Jervis
City, Country: Sheffield, UK
Sent: 10.25 AM - 10/12 2001
Hi Ramon,
Thanks for replying with such alacrity! I hear you and, as I wrote previously,
as you gained the gentleman's permission I withdraw my criticism.
Good
luck!
Name: Denver
City, Country: USA
Sent: 9.42 AM - 10/12 2001
Read your latest report of Oct8, LOVED IT.
It was fantastic how you described your disagreement with Ludo and how you
resolved it together. Excellent, RS.
Wonderful writing.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Sent: 9.35 AM - 10/12 2001
Dear Wendy,
I write about things that happen during my every day journey. The incident with
Ludo is not written to be rude to him or to affront his way of communicating.
It's written as a situation and how it occured.
After all, there is no anger between Ludo and me anymore, be both learned from
the situation. That's why I wrote it too.
I won't write about the good things only, as there are no bad things. Any
person who invites me, gets me how I am and I write about all that.
Yes, I obtained Ludo's full permission to write the report like this.
Please don't feel offended that I don't write with the sugar-coating.
Name: Wendy Jervis
City, Country: Sheffield, UK
Sent: 8.58 AM - 10/12 2001
Dear Ramon,
Of course it is just my opinion but I think you have been quite rude to write
in such detail about the intense personal discussions you had with Ludo Van
Oostende.
I would feel different if you had been discussing world hunger for example, and
you wrote about both point of views and the culmination of the discussion. That
would be of interest to everyone.
In this case however, you were affronted by this man's poor communication
skills and although you had every right to let him know that you were unhappy
about it on a personel level I'm shocked that you have published the details on
your website for all the world to see. If I was a future host I might have
second thoughts about speaking candidly to you.
I feel you have taken an unfair advantage of your position and I'd be
interested to know whether Will Ludo Van Oostende will get an equal and
prominent space to reply if he feels he needs to respond to your report?
To clarify, I am not defending Ludo Van Oostende's actions but I am standing up
to his right for a certain amount of privacy. Please Ramon, as an ex-host, I
implore you not to abuse your position.
If you obtained his permission to write with such candour then I withdraw this
criticism instantly.
Best wishes and good luck on your travels,
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Brackenfell, Cape Town, South Africa
Sent: 11.55 PM - 10/11 2001
First of all, thank you for all compliments and criticisms. They are one of
the motivators during my journeys.
For those opting me to become a politician: I don't know what to say. I don't
really understand either how my writing, my views, advices and opinions could
mean anything to anybody. I just like to share it, because there are so many
people around the world that just don't know the interesting little facts of
the world we live in.
Why shouldn't I share the things I learn during this entire world-experience as
much as I can?
I will just continue this and my journey. I still have the feeling I have just
started and I still have a long way to go.
Name: Elanor
City, Country: Germany
Sent: 11.38 PM - 10/11 2001
Ramon I have been following your journey from the beginning and I admire your
way of traveling.
What I like most of it all is that you share so much with us readers. It is a
joy for me and you sometimes follow my favorite author Bill Bryson in his
footsteps - hey, you are young!
I liked what this 'GI Joe' from the US posted below, why don't you become a
politician. You do already understand a lot of people and differences and if
you have been around the world you'll know lots more than any president!
Ramon, would you see yourself become a world politician?
Name: Ellen Schipper
City, Country: USA
Sent: 9.09 PM - 10/11 2001
I am enjoying your travels around the world. I met up with your website through
earthlink.net. It is interesting to read the "outside" world's
opinion in eegards to America's war against terrorism. It is especially
interesting to read about the globalisation point of view and your explanation
of the issue.
We don't read much about the rest of the world's opinion - I mean the average
non-politician opinion.
People here are pretty much into themselves and lots of flags are waving. It
would behoof the country if people would be less superficial and would be more
interested in what the rest of the world has to say.
It is very interesting what the average person's opinion is.
Take care and enjoy your trip - please don't try to set a new world record and
swim across the ocean!
Name: Journo Jim
City, Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 5.39 PM - 10/11 2001
I have to agree that the Hitler statement is a bit much. Things are very
different geopolitically now than they were in the 1930s.
No doubt plenty of Americans reading that quote will be upset by it. But more
useful might be to try to understand why an intelligent and urbane person might
think that way.
Plenty of people around the world are unhappy about the United States'
involvement in various parts of the globe - apart from the obvious zones, like
Korea, Vietnam, and Grenada, there are all the "covert" activities we
hear about a decade on. Didn't America once fund Osama bin Laden? Did they
create their own beast to bite back at them?
Many citizens of the world deplore the acts of terror waged on New York and
Washington, but quite rightly deplore the current bombing of the poorest
country on earth. Will this defeat terrorism, or merely inspire more
terrorists? Many sensible people do not want another war on this planet of
ours, and regret the actions taken by the US and Britain.
Name: GI Joe
City, Country: United States of America
Sent: 4.38 AM - 10/11 2001
Ramon, you have such great knowledge of world politics.
Why do you waste this great knowledge of yours begging for food and shelter,
when you could make the world such a peaceful place.
Didn't Hitler occupy The Netherlands? Could history be repeating itself? Time
will tell.
Name: Darnell
City, Country: Long Beach, California
Sent: 12.04 AM - 10/11 2001
Ramon,
Congratulations on your journey. To make it as far and as long as you have is
nothing short of being remarkable. I have monitored your progress for some time
and have continued to check in to see how things are going, and judging from
your comments it seems to be going well. Traveling is one way of expanding
one's horizon and it allows us to serve as ambassadors for our country.
With all that said, I needed to comment on the Hitler comment that was
mentioned in your journal; especially in light of the events that have recently
been unfolding in the last week. It's amazing that when someone doesn't
understand you or doesn't agree with you they are quick to label you with the
most negative terms they can find. I don't consider either Osama Bin Laden nor
Bush to be in that league. I personally respect Bush and think despite the
situation he is, he is doing the best that he can. The world fails to mention
that the fact that Bin Laden had no problems with the Americans when he was
taking their money and weapons to fight the Russians, and when they are gone
was quick to turn and bite the hand that fed him.
Now in the words of the American Comedy, Dennis Miller, "I don't want to
get into a rant..." but the world is quick to want to express their
dislikes for Americans and to glout in its misfortunes.
Sorry to break up the tempo but my comments, but that Hitler comment just
caught me off guard and I felt something needed to be said.
Two quotes come to mind, bad things happend when good people do nothing or say
nothing; and in the outdated words of Rodney King (the LA riots guy),
"Can't we all just get along!"
Name: Prevashni Ramsamy
City, Country: Gauteng, South Africa
Sent: 3.35 PM - 10/10 2001
Hi
I work for a television programme called Carte Blanche, and I've been trying
desperately to get footage of Ramon in the Netherlands when he set off in May.
We need footage so we have visuals for an interview we have planned with Ramon.
Please, can someone in the Netherlands television network help out?? We are
prepared to pay for footage, but we need it asap!!
Name: CAti
City, Country: TN USA
Sent: 3.19 PM - 10/10 2001
Would like you to explain what is meant by the "Hitler" comments in
the latest report...it's not as if the US has not sponsored many, many peace
talks and is making very humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan. We did not kill
6.000 people in one fell swoop. WE have not ever been party to causing terrorism.
I cannot what caused anyone to say that bin Laden and Bush were equal parties
in this matter.
Name: Preston
City, Country: Hood County, Texas, USA
Sent: 2.24 PM - 10/10 2001
Hi Ramon:
you wrote: "I do want to write you interesting reports (tell me if they
are of not), but every so often I have to give in a day in return…" You
are doing great, kid. And you are learning about style in our language. And
your education in world geology and politics keeps expanding. One of the side
benefits of your glorious venture!!!
Keep on keeping on! buena suerta, bon chance, Gruss Got! etc.l
Preston
Name: Maurelio Maria Fernandez
City, Country: Spain
Sent: 10.12 AM - 10/10 2001
Ramon, I have to agree with your 'personal opinion' in your October 7 report.
It is true that the western civilised world has been entering other countries
and cultures with their products, without any understanding but with only one
reason: making even more money.
Partly we are ALL to blame for what happens in the world today. We should
indeed just 'trade' with countries, and respect the cultural differences and
let every country produce its own unique products.
Which we mostly don't let them... I definitely can't blame them too for being
angry and Anti-USA (read: Anti-western civilisation).
Good luck Ramon.
Name: Acadia
City, Country: USA
Sent: 11.31 PM - 10/9 2001
I hope my Dad will check out your site, Ramon. The only place on earth he would
like to revisit is Africa. It is the only place from his time in the Airforce
that he talks about. The red sky looks exactly the way he describes it.
Name: Liam
City, Country: Ireland
Sent: 5.29 PM - 10/9 2001
Ramon,
Dont forget to call visit the 'Kingdom in the sky'...Lesotho will impress you
Name: marie
City, Country: usa
Sent: 10.45 AM - 10/9 2001
If you look back at the log for this messageboard you will see that Ramon
himself posts non-travel related messages. As well as commenting on world
events in his daily log.
We are all here to live vicariously through Ramon. He has given us a medium
through which to give him our opinions/feelings on what he wrote, or
information we want to share.
If the bounds have been breached Ramon himself can set the record straight, as
he has in the past, or he can delete messages he feels are inappropriate, as he
has in the past.
Patience and use of the scroll bar can get you by those posts you do not want
to read.
Name: Sue Benning
City, Country: California, USA
Sent: 8.23 AM - 10/9 2001
LOVED the sunset and sky pictures especially, and now I can finally believe
they are real, and not tricks of some photographer! And thank you for the
"virtual safari", and the interesting facts about giraffes!
With the worldwide recession and the drop in travel and tourism (due to fears
of terrorism), you will probably be invited to more and more first class hotels
and be taken to more tourist attractions (like the safari)--which will be
better advertising than they could get anywhere else, for the money. But more
important, your faithful viewers like me) will benefit the most from your new
experiences!
Thanks again, and take care.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.15 AM - 10/9 2001
Hi all
There is a trend to use Ramon's messageboard as an outlet for feelings and
comments about the USA/Afganistan/whatever activities. Yes, this is real, and
yes, it is a war, so it does affect us all.
But please, let's try to keep the messages on Ramon's messageboard about Ramon
and his travels. We all have opinions, some quite aggressive, about the conflict,
but this is not the place to express them.
Please try to keep the messages relevant to Ramon's project. That is, after
all, why it is here.
Ramon, what do you think about this?
Keep well
Brian
Name: Clara
City, Country: Iowa
Sent: 4.26 AM - 10/9 2001
Men, philosophers of all ages have tried to find the secret of existence, the
meaning of it all. Because if they could find the real meaning of life, then
all this human effort, this wonderful potentiality of human beings, could then
be moved in the correct direction and we would march forward with great
success. So therefore, we tried these different ideas. But the question of the
meaning of the whole world, of life, and of human beings and so on, has been
answered very many times, by very many people. Unfortunately, all the answers
are different; and the people with one answer look in horror at the actions and
behavior of the people with another answer. Horror, because they see the
terrible things that are done; the way man is being pushed into a blind alley
by this rigid view of the meaning of the world. In fact, it is really perhaps
by the fantastic size of the horror that it becomes clear how great are the
potentialities of human beings,..." "The Pleasure of Finding Things
Out" Richard Feynman
Name: Richard Reekers
City, Country: Nijmegen // Rotterdam The Netherlands
Sent: 2.04 PM - 10/8 2001
7 oktober 2001, 6.30 pm (EST) -- So now it has begun. In the following days and
months we are to learn how much the troubles will effect the eventual course of
the 21st century. At these times little images encourage hope and confidence.
Such as the CNN-pictures with "courtesy of Al Jazeera". Two logo's,
not conflicting with eachother and neatly presented aside the horror. Guest and
host informing us.
This is not about religion. This is something between poor and rich. After the
storm we've got to act. Not only rebuilding the damage on both sides, but
working together for a better basement and structure of our a mutual home.
Richard
"Judgement Day won't come until the desert is transformed into a sea of
flowers" -- Mohammed
Name: Stella
City, Country: Christchurch New Zealand
Sent: 12.35 PM - 10/8 2001
Ramon,
keep up the travelling..good to see.
Hope you can join us here one day in New Zealand
Name: var
City, Country: Leeuwarden, Netherlands
Sent: 11.25 AM - 10/8 2001
Hi Ramon!
I was reading your comments about you having to remove 35 (!) adresses from you
database on account of the terrorist attack in the US... I got 'kippevel' all
over... I can see why it is difficult to cope with that... Hope that you'll get
a few new invites by the time you get to going to the US; live goes on and all
that...
When are we going to see you on the chatbox again? Its been a bit quiet there
recently.
Groeten and the best of luck,
var
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.29 AM - 10/8 2001
Hi Ramon
I am really glad that you enjoyed your camping in the game reserve. Hopefully
you stopped to watch the other animals for as long as you stopped for the
so-called big 5.
When in a game reserve, one should realise that each plant, each animal, and
indeed, each river, hill, and so on, all play a crucial roll in the
environment.
Each contributes something that is crucial to the ecosystem. Did you see the
dung beetles in the elephant droppings? Did you see the lilac-breasted roller
showing you how it got that name? I hope so.
Well, look after yourself in Joburg. Travel well, and see as much as you can.
Brian
Name: Martin van Tuijl
City, Country: Roden, The Netherlands
Sent: 3.16 AM - 10/8 2001
http://mammoet.t-l.org/basmuller.sqr.nl/beeldbank/babin_20010913.gif
....
With all respect and love to all the victims in NY and Washington, is this
maybe something to think about? Is this maybe something why things are going so
bad right now? Like to read your comments about this...
Peace!
Name: Erin
City, Country: Versailles, France
Sent: 10.22 AM - 10/7 2001
Hey Ramon!
Hope you remember your mad Aussie host from France! :) Jurgen says hi, too.
I'm so glad youre in South Africa! Have just scrolled through all the pics, and
they're great. You seem to be having a wonderful experience, and I'm really
happy for you.
Take
care.
Name: Robert
City, Country: Denmark
Sent: 12.14 AM - 10/7 2001
Roberto
I side with you on the fact that many people are subjected to similar attacks
around the world and my heart goes with them, but I'm hereby refering to the 35
or so readers (of this site) who invited Ramon to thier homes and didn't live
to see it into reality due terrorism. Do you get my point?
City, Country: dbk Tom
Sent: 11.01 PM - 10/6 2001
Hi Ramon, I've just send this article to TV NZ.
Hope something comes of it
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Johannesburg, South Africa
Sent: 10.13 PM - 10/6 2001
The South African newspaper The Citizen has published about me on October
3rd on a full page. As they don't have a website (yet), somebody provided me
the complete text by email. Thank you!
You can read the whole story here.
Name: Roberto
City, Country: Italy
Sent: 5.05 PM - 10/6 2001
I would like to respond to Roberts request for a page on this website for all
victims and family of the recent attacks of the WTC.
Probably you are now only thinking about the +5,000 victims of terrorism in the
USA. I regret it that you don't look further. There are much more victims of
terrorism on this planet!!!
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 11.12 AM - 10/6 2001
Genny,
Thanks for the reference to those web sites. I suggest others in this board
take a look see. Especially Erwan's. Lots of info.
Erwan,
Absolutely incredible information. Thanks! :-)
Name: Genny
City, Country: Toronto, Canada
Sent: 6.22 AM - 10/6 2001
In a follow up to Erwan's article, another website to visit is: www.rawa.org
This was created by a women's group to document the human rights violations in
Afghanistan. Given the conditions under which Afghan women live, it's
incredible that this site exists at all. A picture's worth a thousand words so
this is not for the faint of heart.
PS Ramon, I love reading about your trip! I hope you get invited to stay with
some black families. It would be interesting to get your perspective of how the
majority of South Africans live. I am hoping to be living in a bigger place by
the time you make it to Ontario. If so, I'll definitely invite you over!
Name: Robert
City, Country: Copenhagen, Denmark
Sent: 2.19 AM - 10/6 2001
Hi all
I’ve been following Ramon’s journey since he came to Denmark and to be frank,
I’ve enjoyed every little bit of everything but his October 2 (second day)
report from South Africa have touched so much that I’ve decided to express my
mind about something special.
Though some of us will criticize him for accepting an invitation from a big
(corporation) guy. I don’t see anything wrong about that. We all have to bear
in mind that not all big guys are bad. While some might suck you and me others
have refresh us in a way or the other. Correct me if I’m wrong, most of the
things that we now take for granted, including our dear mighty internet, might
not be in its current stage without them. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a teacher
(not a corporate executive) and I love my job 100%, but, please allow Ramon to
be a little bit human.
What’s really pushing me to write this message:
I felt sad to read of some 35 friends who invited Ramon for a day but couldn’t
see their dreams into reality due to this horrible incident that occurred in
the United States on September 11.
Thinking over it made me so much sad. Surely, these people were my friends or
family we never knew. They were people we’d been reading same things with,
enjoyed same things with, think over same things, share same feelings etc. In
reality they were some friends or (let me stay for a day) family members who
were going on with daily life like you and I and never made it to the next day.
Yes, this is the world we live in. Oh, what a life.
I’m hereby suggesting two things:
1. Let’s build a page on this site for these friends. A page where people,
especially their family members and love ones, can send in regular information
about them (including pictures, their daily life, etc.).
I think their wish/dreams that we may someday read about them on this site
should be a reality and live after them. Their invitation to Ramon should be
appreciated.
2. We should raise founds and build a monument , an internet cafe, or anything
special , in the United States to uplift their names and soul.
Okay, here goes my mind guys. Please write yours and let’s get to work.
Anything is welcomed.
Much
love.
Name: Niki
City, Country: Liverpool
Sent: 11.04 AM - 10/5 2001
Muhammed, looks to me like Ramon has hitch hiked only a handfull of times -
read the reports, he's got it so easy............
Name: Suzanne and Paul
City, Country: Isle of Man
Sent: 7.52 PM - 10/4 2001
Remember us? You do - great!Paul's birthday next week we will get some raunchy
photos of Manx ladies for you - used your free flight to SA then? only just
manged to re connect our pc - the legend of Ramon lives on in the IOM people
keep asking us about you xxx
Name: Salome
City, Country: Cape Town, SA
Sent: 1.05 PM - 10/4 2001
Welkom in Afrika :-)
I have been reading your reports since day 1 - and can not believe you are in
SA already - Wow ! I live in a suburb outside Cape Town called Table View. I
have posted my invite and hope to see you soon.
Lekker
bly :-)
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 12.11 PM - 10/4 2001
Absolutely, I echo the sentiments of Muhammed. Ramon, keep up the great
efforts, you really are making a good impression on those whose lives you pass.
Name: Muhammed
City, Country: Durban South Africa
Sent: 9.25 AM - 10/4 2001
May I offer another pespective to the recently expressed views concerning
Ramon's acceptance of the hospitality offered to him by certain commercial
tourism enterprises.
As an ex-hitcher I do know that life on the road in a strange country can be
rough. With no home comforts, inclement weather, hours of waiting for
transport, wavering sleep patterns can altogether take its toll on your health,
energy and moods. As Ramon travels without a budget, he is normally even worse
off, not even able to buy the little luxuries which I could afford and took for
granted.
Yet, despite the hurdles, Ramon ventures on, faithfully at work on his
keyboard, cheerfully producing a graphic and entertaining travelogue of his
experiences for our enjoyment. The pressures to carry a demeanour of politeness
to ones hosts while writing about them will always be present. Not an easy
task.
Having considered this, I believe that it would be a pleasant change from the
rigours of his sojourn for Ramon to be accorded the cosiness once in a while.
He deserves to go on a splurge every now and again if only for his efforts in
helping to promote communication and understanding between different cultures.
Note his very charitable and mature comments regarding the recent tragedies in
the U.S.
Ramon,
Ons verwelkom jou hier in Zuidafrika !
Enjoy the luxuries offered to you
to get your batteries recharged for the challenging road ahead.
Name: fatih
City, Country: istanbul, turkey
Sent: 9.01 AM - 10/4 2001
go on. I congratulate you.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.30 AM - 10/4 2001
Hi Ramon
I feel so incredibly proud reading your report from Joburg. I lived there for
seven years, and, although I prefer both Cape Town and Durban, the places you
mention are still significant to me in some way.
That "concrete highway" is a major arterial, in fact, it is the so-called
"Cape to Cairo" road. I commuted on it between home and work, and
believe me, it gets bumper to bumper with traffic.
It is always interesting to read your reports, but so much more so when the
places you discuss are so familiar. I'll make every effort to read your reports
every day while you are in SA.
Each day I'm sure you will find something great about this confused country.
Without realising it, you might even change the entire world's opinion on SA.
Who are you to change the world? You, Ramon, are precisely the man we need.
Go
well
Brian
Name: Lee Yi
City, Country: Sichuan,China
Sent: 8.51 PM - 10/3 2001
dear Ramon,I am a chinese girl.I read the news about you in the newspaper,so I
come here.I give my message to you,welcome to China,welcome to Sichuan,welcome
to Nanchong!I am a college student,my English isn't very good,soory!But don't
worry,i'll do my best to heip you!
Name: journo Jim
City, Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 1.11 PM - 10/3 2001
It seems my last message caused a bit of upset so please let me clarify.
Firstly to Charmaine - I meant no slight on the people of Soweto whatsoever. I
was simply aware that there are more sides to South Africa than can be seen
from within a White gated community. I look forward to Ramon visiting the many
other communities that exist in your large and eclectic country much more than
I look forward to his staying in hotels.
Ramon himself seems a little peeved at the point that I'm making. As I said, in
his position I'd do exactly the same. Possibly the project has become the
victim of its own success. As corporate tourism entities hear of the project
they realise that by helping Ramon they can access his large audience of
readers.
Should the hosts who flew Ramon to South Africa be thanked? By Ramon, yes. But
not necessarily by me or the many other followers of his odyssey.
Like Brian, I propose moderation in these matters. Of course assistance is
needed to cross oceans. Of course a stay in a hotel is a welcome pleasure. But
the original plan of the project as I understand it will inevitably suffer if,
as Brian puts it, Ramon starts making a habit of it.
Name: meyroos
City, Country: the Netherlands
Sent: 10.28 AM - 10/3 2001
dear Ramon, Iam following your travels from the moment you started, and even if
Iam a bit older than your average reader (I think) I think your reports make
facinating reading. Hopefully your traveling will take
you everywhere, and than we (at home) can enjoy your
reports. Be carefull, good luck meyroos
Name: Acadia
City, Country: USA
Sent: 10.13 AM - 10/3 2001
Ramon, I posted a message several days ago on an email list that you were on
your way to SA. Many of the members are from South Africa so I hope they are
able to invite you.
Bret, Of course Munk has some good points in his post.
Munk, your response seems to be trying to educate. Accurate information is
vital to understanding, as you obviously know. Bad US foreign policy did not
kill those thousands of innocent (read non-military, non-governmental) people,
terrorists did.
Dead they are and will remain, and their families mourn. As do I. Peace.
My thoughts for Ramon are to
travel well and stay safe in a beautiful country full of contradictions. I am
told that a great thing to do is go all the way down the cape and visit where
two great oceans collide.
Acadia
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 9.14 AM - 10/3 2001
Munk,
Great come back on Acadia, no offense Acadia, but Munk has some great points.
Let's all learn from it shall we?
Now back to the travels of Ramon......................
Name: Vincent Vercueil
City, Country: Luzern, Switzerland
Sent: 8.23 AM - 10/3 2001
Dear Ramon.
Hi there! I am a South African living in Switzerland now for 3 years. I come
from Cape Town originally and have been following your project since the
beginning. I think it is fantastic that you have arrived in South Africa and
wish you a wonderful time full of memories. South Africa is very beautiful and
the people are fantastic, warm and friendy. Are you going to Cape Town too? I
wish all the success in you adventure!
Cheers,
Vincent.
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.17 AM - 10/3 2001
Hi Ramon
Apparently some people are upset with the managers and owners of hotels
inviting you to stay in their hotels. Well, it really is up to them if they
want to invite you. Your project is inherently about sponsorship and
advertising, eg your phone, your camera, certain of your air tickets, etc. The
occasional hotel can't be so bad. Just don't make a habit of it :-)
In any case, when you are in these hotels, I'm sure you'll spend time with the
people, not just lock yourself away in the room. So, everyone benefits.
If nothing else, it gives you a bit more time to explore the country you're in,
and meet a few more people. You did it in some European countries already, and
it worked out well.
Go ahead, Ramon, stay where-ever you can. Just be sure to talk to the people,
and learn something about life in these places you visit. And be careful. I'm
looking forward to seeing you here in Durban.
Oh, and for the people reading this, I am not a hotel operator. I am an
ordinary citizen, renting a cottage in someone elses garden. I don't even own
the place, but it is a small house, and it works for me.
Go well, Ramon
Regards
Brian
Name: Gülsüm Özkýlýnç
City, Country: Istanbul/TURKEY
Sent: 10.08 PM - 10/2 2001
Hi! First of all I have to say that it is a great idea and great chance for you
to visit all over the world.I hope you can achieve it.I left my address and my
phone number and all the other stuff.Well I do not know anything about you but
trust you anyway.I hope you can visit my country it doesn't matter in my house
or someone else's.Good luck and have fun
Name: Ivannia
City, Country: Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Sent: 10.08 PM - 10/2 2001
Hi!
I wrote you time ago, but I wanted to do it again because I'd like to wish you
good luck and enjoy a lot.
Ramon, I always ask me in which place you are now, and when I visit your page I
say WOW!
Please, take care of yourself!!!
Iva
Name: Cecilia Bohemia
City, Country: Formosa, Argentina
Sent: 6.56 PM - 10/2 2001
I'm very impressioned about Raymond travel around the world. I've publish an
article about him in my web: BOHEMIOSLAND (http://communities.latam.msn.com/Bohemiosland)
This is a site to bohemians travellers like him, but to people from latin
america. Link it!!
My biggest dream is to do a travel like Raymond's.
Sory for my poor english
bye
Name: Charmaine
City, Country: JHB, South Africa
Sent: 12.44 PM - 10/2 2001
Jim - I'm a white South African living in Johannesburg and I've been to Soweto
(and other townships) many many times. It's an adventure... bit of a culture
shock for some but one of the few places that I've been where I've been treated
like an absolute honoured guest. The African cultures are rich and their
hospitality and manners IMPECABLE.
Name: Charmaine
City, Country: Johannesburg, South Africa
Sent: 12.35 PM - 10/2 2001
Looking forward to hearing you tonight!!
Name: mattias
City, Country: kŠrra sweden
Sent: 12.19 PM - 10/2 2001
sorry!!! hope u finded another place to stay at.. take care //mattias from
sweden (me and my mom)
Name: Erwan
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 12.08 PM - 10/2 2001
After reading some comments here on what's happened in the US I recommend all
of you to read this article on Afghanistan:
http://www.iranian.com/Opinion/2001/June/Afghan/index.html
Truly a horror story.
Name: Nicki
City, Country: Liverpool
Sent: 11.04 AM - 10/2 2001
I agree jim, it's getting boring reading about the media, seems this project
has gone right off track especially with Ramon returning home, get back to
staying in peoples houses before we all switch off...
Name: Journo Jim
City, Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 9.49 AM - 10/2 2001
I'm a little concerned that this is becoming more about corporate advertisers
inviting Ramon to pitch their holidays as his readers than it is about
individuals asking him to stay.
I don't blame Ramon - I'd accept all offers too, but it is becoming more
corporate. As soon as he leaves the holiday homes and visits with real South
Africans, I'll be much more intrigued. Ramon, have you any invitations from
Soweto? Will you go?
As my message is about advertising, forgive me for doing some advertising of my
own - www.survivingsuicide.net is a website dedicated to all those who have
lost a loved one to suicide. It will officially launch in one month's time, the
1st of november, All Soul's Day. If you know anyone who has lost their father,
mother, sister, brother, friend, lover, son or daughter to suicide, tell them
about www.survivingsuicide.net.
Thanks.
Name: dbk Tom
City, Country: New Zealand
Sent: 7.09 AM - 10/2 2001
was just reading your report from S.A
Great Ramon
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.11 AM - 10/2 2001
Hi Ramon
Finally, you made it to our beautiful country! Long way, hey! Well, I know the
road you're staying in, there in Jo'burg, it's a good area. Just watch out for
the muggers.
I'll send you an email, please check it well before coming to Durbs! Our
timetables must agree. South Africa, as ou may have figured, is in spring now,
and while Cape Town dries up, the rest of the country gets wetter with summer
rain.
And everything turns green! Ramon, please read your email today. I'm looking
forward to seeing you.
Regards
Brian
Name: Marcella
City, Country: Rotterdam, Netherlands
Sent: 12.05 AM - 10/2 2001
Okay Ramon. Way to go! You made it all the way to South Africa, who would have
guessed that when you started off. And enjoy the hotels and resorts you will
visit, it will be a unique way to understand the economic differences when you
will be visiting ordinary South African people. Good luck!
Name: Orcun
City, Country: Izmir, Turkey
Sent: 10.00 PM - 10/1 2001
dude, what you do is soooo cool. i just invited you. i hope you'll come stay at
my house too. it will be great to be a part of this project. i always wanted to
do something like that. you're so lucky. well, i'm only 18, maybe i'll have
that chance one day too. am i too optimistic? anmyways ramon, have fun in south
africa. see you in turkey soon...
Name: Munk
City, Country: Zwolle
Sent: 12.09 PM - 10/1 2001
Acadia: ,,How simplistic. America pumps millions of dollars every year into aid
for countries across the globe, this is medical and food, yet somehow the
terrorists actions were deserved?''
Yes, I know the US government is one of the many nations taking part in relief
work in the area. They do donate millions in aid for the region. However, they
also spent several times more that amount in training and arming the Mujaheddin
soldiers in Afghanistan to help them kick out the Russians in the 1980s (the
ever present 'communist danger' of those days). When the Russians finally left
the country, the ensuing chaos was followed by a civil war between the
Mujaheddin and other parties, resulting in the current situation which millions
of people have been fleeing for some years now. Three million people are
starving in Pakistan near the border of Afghanistan, despite relief efforts. In
the meantime, with American interests secure (Russians gone), the US government
dropped its support to Afghanistan like a brick in thick mud. And yes, I am
happy to see that the USA helps in relief efforts. But as long as they continue
to combine those efforts with the severe mistakes made in its overall foreign
policy concerning the same region as the aid goes to, a constructive solution
is farther away than ever. If I remember correctly, there was a contribution in
the guestbook by somebody who proposed a sort of Marshall aid plan, to 'bomb'
the Afghans with food, information and to commit all resources to actually
improve their situation (AND get rid of terrorism). History shows us this kind
of solution works (Germany after WWII, compared to WWI outcome). Does it imply
this American student, who was my support, was simplistic? I don't think so. I
think he was openminded. As far as human life is concerned, indeed, let us not
be callous. I think I know the value of human, and indeed every, life quite
well and perhaps a little better than some people.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 9.49 PM - 9/29 2001
Ramon,
Good to see you got a chance to get back home before you set off on your
S.African adventure. I have a request if it's not too late. Could you take a
pic of your support crew? I'd like to see all who are involved in your project.
Thanks.
Bret
Name: Marianne
City, Country: Zwolle, The Netherlands
Sent: 8.45 PM - 9/29 2001
Hey Ramon! Great to be back in town for a few days. Congratulations for your
150 DAYS!!! Never thought you'd hold out that long and even longer. Have fun in
South Africa my mate!
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
Sent: 5.28 AM - 9/29 2001
Zoran,
"What you see in your mind is what you can achieve in Life".
Everything would be easy if you know what your heart desires.
Leonard
Name: Zoran
City, Country: Trstenik, Yugoslavia
Sent: 3.00 PM - 9/28 2001
Hey Ramon whassup!
I really like this what u r doing man!I would offer a place for you back home
but I am going to college in USA now in Florida (Palm Beach), so I am not in
Yugoslavia right now... But hey - I think you are gonna have great time when
you visit Yugoslavia. Check out night clubs and night life in Belgrade, really
good! Don't get drunk :-)
Hey when are you coming to Florida ? Maybe I can see you around this area :))
This is a great but not an easy project
good luck
Zoran
Name: Heather Dawson
City, Country: Belfast N Ireland
Sent: 11.43 AM - 9/28 2001
Ramon So Sorry for letting you down @ our house but it was literally like six
hours before we were due to go .on holiday to France that you called. I'm glad
to see that you did get good hospitality in Belfast. If I hadn't had a head
full of lists and worries I could have asked my parents or brothers and sisters
and friends to put you up. We do have family in South Africa though so I'll
email them to see if they could put you up for the night. Again Sorry and Happy
travelling H
Name: Richard Rose
City, Country: Denver, Colorado USA
Sent: 3.27 AM - 9/27 2001
Hej, Ramon
Hoe gaat je?
I'm glad to see that you are continuing your trip, despite the recent disaster
and present uncertainty. I just sent you an invitation to stay for a day (or
longer, if you wish).
I first heard about you on USA national public radio a few weeks ago. About me:
I am American but lived the better years of my life in Europe (Scotland,
England, France, Denmark)- well, qualitatively, at least- it was 14 years. I've
been back in USA for 8 years. It would be nice to welcome you here. I notice
that you have many pictures posted of you eating! There is good food here, too.
:-)
Maybe hear from you later.
All the best, Richard
Name: Simon Thorsander
City, Country: Lund, Sweden
Sent: 5.33 PM - 9/26 2001
Nice meeting you!
I hope that you will get more invitations to cities in Sweden in the Future!
And I also would like to wish you luck in your future traveling.
/Simon Thorsander (friend of yours (and John Järpling))
Name: hakanuysal
City, Country: mugla,dalaman,turkey
Sent: 3.46 PM - 9/26 2001
hello, i heard about ur site on tv and decided to write . but i dont kýnow how
to send a mail. i coulnd see any e mail box . i hope u can come and visit me i
can escort you for the sightseeing and stay with me in my home. see you bye . i
ll try to find out how to send an e mail and i ll have sent it soon. enjoy ur
travelling and take care of you . bye
Name: Acadia
City, Country: USA
Sent: 10.18 AM - 9/26 2001
Munk - "the looming war was as much the fault of America's rotten foreign
policy as it was the terrorists'. Now, think about that." What? So that
American student thinks those thousands of people, many from other countries,
died because of lousy foreign policy? How simplistic. America pumps millions of
dollars every year into aid for countries across the globe, this is medical and
food, yet somehow the terrorists actions were deserved? Understand, I know the
United States government makes some very bad decisions. The terrorists did not
attack government centers, or just a military installation, those people on the
planes and in the World Trade Center were innocent. Let us not be so callous about
human life, and the horrific actions of others.
Name: John Järpling
City, Country: Lund, Sweden
Sent: 9.52 AM - 9/26 2001
Nice meeting you ramon, have a nice life!
And this is to Ramon ho said that the zipper was invented by a Swiss... And I
claimed it to be a swedish invention:
Some links on the matter:
http://www.sverigeturism.se/smorgasbord/smorgasbord/industry/inventions/#zipper
http://www.nasbydal.taby.se/projekt/Inventors/Zipper/Zipper_En.htm
http://www.si.se/docs/infosweden/engelska/fs91.pdf
http://www.isa.se/reasons/global.htm
I think I have won this discussion :)
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 10.11 PM - 9/25 2001
Hi Ramon
We are still checking out your travels most days and want to wish you a safe
journey to South Africa. We can't wait for your pix of the wildlife because
some friends of ours went 'on Safari' in SA last year and had some superb pix,
some very close up because they had an excellent guide who took them to some
fantastic places. Hope you get looked after as well.
Good Luck Ramon
Sylvia & Family
Name: sivan yossef
City, Country: ramat-gan ,israel
Sent: 7.35 PM - 9/25 2001
well ,as a person who travelld too in holland and other countries i'll be very
happy if you come to stay at my place ,in israel ,you must come ,it will be
great to know you. so i am waiting....
Name: BURAK SAKIR age:25
City, Country: IZMIR/TURKEY
Sent: 5.55 PM - 9/25 2001
Hi Ramon!Your travel is a great thing and I wish you good luck!I have travelled
about 30.000 kilometres by my thumb as well and I do understand you well but I
didn't have your media help!Howcome I couldn't think of it?Anyway please take
care!Later on I will write you my address.HOPE TO SEE YOU:)
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 3.45 PM - 9/25 2001
Munk, great message you wrote earlier on! And isn't that what life is all
about?
Name: Kevin
City, Country: California, USA
Sent: 1.14 PM - 9/25 2001
Ramon,
You are doing a great job with your project. I appreciate the pictures and the
HONEST comments about the places you stay! I hope you will accept our
invitation to stay at our home in beautiful northern california.
Carry
On!
Name: Munk
City, Country: Zwolle, Ramon's home town
Sent: 9.43 AM - 9/25 2001
Hi everybody. Interesting as it is to follow the discussions here on the
messageboard, I have contribution as well. As pictures of the WTC attack came
through we were watching them in a bar. In the evening some American exchange
students came in, we had some islamic people over as well, and everybody
started to talk. Former refugees from the Middle East related their experience
with the region, their thoughts and their worries. The Americans expressed
their anger at what happened. After a long evening everybody knew what each
other's vision and background was. And, more important, everybody could
understand AND live with the ideas and poersonalities that were there,
different as their visions were. What did I learn from this? It's all about
communication. Pay attention to the rest of the world and talk about it. If you
do not talk, you get into a fight. If you don't act in time, the fight turns
into war. And wars have the unnerving tendency to escalate.
Most funny remark of this interesting evening? An American relating the
difficulty he would have explaining his parents in the States that he was
starting to see that the looming war was as much the fault of America's rotten
foreign policy as it was the terrorists'. Now, think about that.
Name: Kent Madin
City, Country: USA
Sent: 4.10 PM - 9/24 2001
A military response, particularly an attack on Afghanistan, is exactly what the
terrorists want. It will strengthen and swell their small but fanatical ranks.
Instead, bomb Afghanistan with butter, with rice, bread, clothing and medicine.
It will cost less than conventional arms, poses no threat of US casualties and
just might get the populace thinking that maybe the Taliban doesn't have the
answers. After three years of draught and with starvation looming, let's offer
the Afghani people the vision of a new future. One that includes full stomachs.
Bomb them with information. Video players and cassettes of world leaders,
particularly Islamic leaders, condemning terrorism. Carpet the country with
magazines and newspapers showing the horror of terrorism committed by their
"guest". Blitz them with laptop computers and DVD players filled with
a perspective that is denied them by their government. Saturation bombing will
mean that some of it gets through. Send so much that the Taliban can't collect
and hide it all.
The Taliban are telling their people to prepare for Jihad. Instead, let's give
the Afghani people their first good meal in years. Seeing your family fully fed
and the prospect of stability in terms of food and a future is a powerful
deterrent to martyrdom. All we ask in return is that they, as a people, agree
to enter the civilized world. That includes handing over terrorists in their
midst.
In responding to terrorism we need to do something different ... something
unexpected ... something that addresses the root of the problem. We need to
take away the well of despair, ignorance and brutality from which the Osama bin
Laden's of the world water their gardens of terror.
Name: CORALIE
City, Country: ENGLAND
Sent: 3.53 PM - 9/24 2001
Cowboy
How do you get rid of an enemy?????
EASY!
YOU MAKE A FRIEND OF THEM !
We are all different in life ....the tragedy in America obviously brought this
home not just to the USA , but to the planet , near enough!
Clearly terrorists who are mad enough to kill themselves as well as others are
not amenable to reason.
If a response is directed at them alone it will have no effect. If we do not
react they will see it as weakness and strike again, but if we retaliate they
will seek revenge.
The best course of action is to strike at those who give them shelter and
supply them with arms, money and training.
These terrorists will still be evil and insane but will lack means to inflict
so much harm!
I'm not religous but I cant imagine Allah would want such an obnoxious little
ferret sitting next to him, quite the reverse, I would imagine any god would
give bin Laden a swift kick into oblivion, please!
Ramon ...keep safe and well ......
Regards
Coralie
Name: Acadia
City, Country: USA
Sent: 8.53 AM - 9/24 2001
Ramon, I know exactly what you mean about the smell papermills impart on a
town. Before there were stricter sanctions about air quality I lived a town
away from a very foul smelling mill, living in the state of Maine it is hard to
get too far from a paprmill. If I awoke with a sore throat, watery eyes and
ringing ears I knew the wind shifttd and brought the smell (and all that goes
with it) to my door. When I became an adult and moved I was near a different
mill, bigger and smellier. Thankfully I was too far away to smell it from my
home, but I did not go there unless absolute necessity called. Now sanctions in
place, smell gone, nicer town to visit. People that live in these towns got
used to it as just part of life, and most of them worked at the mills too.
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
Sent: 7.03 AM - 9/24 2001
Nina,
Indeed, 'words are symbols that carry many different shades' and 'words are
chameleons too - they reflect the colour of their environment/atmosphere'.
Ramon,
Thanks for making me realised that the best things in life are postage paid,
batteries included, guarantee forever and tax free.
Little miracle happens everyday.
Name: Ashley Frazier
City, Country: Philadelphia, PA USA
Sent: 4.18 AM - 9/23 2001
Just a few minutes ago there was a report on CNN that "textbooks on
cropdusting" had *possibly* been found among the WTC terrorists belongings
- which *could* mean they were planning some chemical attack on US citizens! I
turned to my roommate and said "Has CNN turned into the official
propaganda machine for this country? This is scaring me!" and he silently
handed me his computer, which was open to this message board. If people like
Cowboy can't see through such slanted reporting I feel it is my duty to point
it out to my fellow countrymen so we don't look like such idiots to the rest of
you. My apologies for him.
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 5.10 PM - 9/22 2001
The communicator must recognize that it is possible to be influenced by his or
her own feelings, attitudes toward a topic, and past experiences.
The communicator must therefore choose language that is clear and effective in
transmitting the real meaning of the message to the receiver (listener or
reader)
The communicator must recognize that words are symbols that carry many
different shades.
The ability of the receiver (reader or listener) to understand the words chosen
is essential. Both communicator and receiver are affected by personal attitudes
and experiences, and therefore have a tendency to misunderstand the ideas
received. The receiver may not be conscious of the reason why he or she
distorts its meaning. (Cowboy for example and some others)
I hope this explains why people react in different ways after reading Ramon’s
writings. He is the communicator and should understand that the receiver may
misunderstand him due to personal attitudes or experiences. Who can we say is
right or wrong? People think in different ways. I get angry with some of the
messages posted, but I have learned to be tolerant because people are
different. I decided that since I don’t know them personally, I’m unable to
make any remarks about them like I used to.
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 5.09 PM - 9/22 2001
About News?
A foreign government may sometimes carefully censor news from some foreign
countries before it is released. A newspaper may print it, but it is well to
remember that such stories may include distortions of fact or
half-truth—statements that are true but misleading because they omit important
facts.
Name: Ramon
Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Lillehammer, Norway
Sent: 12.11 AM - 9/22 2001
My response to the messages below here:
For what I know, it is not true that Western television is showing celebrating
Palestines or Iraqis in footage of 9 years ago. This story is over-posted on
usenet newsgroups and a Bralizian newspaper even posted it online. But the person
(who seems to be always the same one) telling you all that story, is not
sending any proof of the truth. If it is true, he should also be showing the
original footage from 1992, but then it gets silent.
Another reason not even to believe any rumours until clear proof is given.
Until now it's just pure gossip.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 11.15 PM - 9/21 2001
Trev,
I'd like to know how true that 9 year old footage used is. It wouldn't suprise
me though. Any links to further info would be appreciated. As for why we're in
Kuwait still. You hit the nail on the head. Oil, and our thirst for it. It gets
pretty complex if you think about it too long. Keep me informed all, that's
what I like about this site. Real people, honest points of view.
Name: Trev
City, Country: Great Britain..
Sent: 7.09 PM - 9/21 2001
Hi..I think Cowboy has been caught with his zipper down and no-one has told
him.
Anyway.. I was told today about how the news is warped in telling the truth.
Which I think could be true. The people out in the Gulf were celebrating the
fall of the twin towers as shown on TV in the UK. They had shown pictures of
celebrations going on, when the fact is, these pictures were taken 9 years ago
During the Gulf War. So why show pictures that were taken 9 Years ago. Was this
to wind up the British People. Just so to get on the Americans Side maybe.
What I dont understand is why are the Americans, still in the gulf anyway. The
War is over, or dont they understand this. Or is it just to keep a foot in the
door so they can keep in control of the country and the oil that it contains.
After all thats what Americans depend on more than anyone.
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 4.01 PM - 9/21 2001
I think, good points as well.
:)
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 3.21 PM - 9/21 2001
Bret, you made a very clear statement and I can only agree with you. Isn't life
just like being in a big relationship with the world around you where you can
only hope that people will give you advice on how to look at certain things?!
That is one of the best things about the relationship I have at the moment,
that I can learn from that other person, that he can make me take a second look
at ideas and opinions I have as there is always more than just your own
opinion.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 10.54 AM - 9/21 2001
I was about to say sorry for Cowboy, but then I realized that I shouldn't be
sorry for him. He spewed out his "personal feelings". Now I know what
type of person he really is. Neanderthal comes to mind, but then that might be
too generous. As for Cowboy never coming back to this site. I bet he can't stay
away. He knows he's gonna get some backlash from his statement, as he should.
This is unfortunately the way quite a few Americans think. "Yup pardner i
got that there first hand sperience on Merican tinkin." I guess it's the
"Pride" that get's in the way of reality and cognizance. I can only
ask you all for patience when it comes to people like cowboy.
Which brings me to Ramons remarks. Bravo my man. How are we suppose to know how
we look unless someone tells us? Are any of us not thankful for someone coming
over to us and telling us politely that our zipper is down. Have you ever left
home for awhile; come back, then hear people talk about whats going on in town.
Aren't you amazed that you never saw it that way when you lived there!? Thank
you Ramon for telling it like it is. Do not stop your opinions. I agree with
Karen, this web site is a learning experience, welcomed by opened minded
people.(ok, so a few nutballs slip in every now and then) Let's keep it real.
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver, Colorado USA
Sent: 9.57 AM - 9/21 2001
Ahhh, Martin. I love your poem. It speaks for itself, yes? :)
I wanted to write...that not every person from the United States feels the same
as others and that some are knowledgeable of what else happens in the world,
that some of us know that the rest should try to open their eyes. A lot are
sheltered when born and many are sheltered all their lives. It's up to all of
us to formulate our own opinions and beliefs and not blindingly rely upon what
we have been told or what we MAY have think we have seen.
I also believe that everyone can have their own opinions and beliefs, BUT in
ANY forum, this is NOT for us to neither condemn NOR ridicule others for having
a different one. No one is perfect, and we all make mistakes, but there is a
time to learn from others as well as from ourselves.
Lashing out with offensive sentences to someone who has formulated an opinion
contrary to what you believe, does not make your voice respectable nor worthy.
It's almost if you are cowering behind your own words.
Just my opinion. Love you all.
MJ
Name: Martin
City, Country: Roden, The Netherlands
Sent: 3.21 AM - 9/21 2001
Message below is mine, forgot to enter my name, country..
Sent: 3.19 AM - 9/21 2001
Hey Cowboy:
Miraculous you call it babe
You ain't seen nothing yet
They've got Pepsi in the Andes
McDonalds in Tibet
Yosemite's been turned into
A golf course for the Japs
The Dead Sea is alive with rap
Between the Tigris and Euphrates
There's a leisure centre now
They've got all kinds of sports
They've got Bermuda shorts
They had sex in Pennsylvania
A Brazilian grew a tree
A doctor in Manhattan
Saved a dying man for free
It's a miracle
Another Miracle
By the grace of God Almighty
And the pressures of the marketplace
The human race has civilized itself
[Roger Waters]
The world is no perfect place, we all think different. But we all are in this
mess together. We all live in the same world. Let's reach out and try to
understand the differents between people. And respect that. If we do, the world
be a different place.
God bless you all, were ever you are..
Name: George
City, Country: UK
Sent: 2.42 PM - 9/20 2001
Cowboy speak with forked tounge!
Name: Ike
City, Country: chengdu,China
Sent: 11.28 AM - 9/20 2001
hey everybody:
nice to see so many kindful people here.recently people are worring about
Americans' attack,no doubt it will cause many death.let's pray for the world
peace and Roamon could come to Asia some time.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Ålesund, Norway
Sent: 11.20 AM - 9/20 2001
I think 'Cowboy' wants to see the truth as something that is always positive,
sweet and innocent.
Well, wake up, the world isn't like that.
But you can never twist about its beauty.
Thanks for for leaving this web site, Cowboy.
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 9.30 AM - 9/20 2001
Cowboy, what is wrong with you? Can't you take a persons honest opinion on
something? Instead of taking Ramons comment on CNN aboard and discussing it,
you immediately get very defensive. Shame, as this website and Ramons
travelling is about learning from eachother.
Name: Peace
Sent: 9.22 AM - 9/20 2001
'In every human being there is a wish to AMELIORATE his condition.' I hope you
have that wish, COWBOY! (Ooph, I forget he won't be around anymore.)
Name: Bostjan
City, Country: Ljubljana - Slovenia SI
Sent: 8.36 AM - 9/20 2001
Great idea...
Name: bety
City, Country: portugal
Sent: 8.19 AM - 9/20 2001
thank god there are fewer americans like" cowboy" or we would be
allready in a 3rd w.w.
because of is way of thinking is that why the world is now with this problem.
his great CNN fake images.
i have hope in this new govern, they seem to know what to do.
Name: Cowboy
City, Country: United States of America
Sent: 3.29 AM - 9/20 2001
Ramon, why do you watch CNN then, you free-loading little wimp.
If it wasn't for the USA and Great Britain, you'd be German.
You are just so jealous that all the attention has been taking
away from the free-loading adventures of the bald-headed little Ramon.
What? Are these tragedies ruining your pitiful claim to fame?
As you disgrace the loving people that host you by telling
to the world that their house or hotel is clean or dirty.
You live in such a fairy tale world wimp, wake up, before you get another
bloody nose or worse!!!
There is one thing that you said that is true. Americans are proud and VERY
powerful.
Don't worry, I will never visit your web site again, because people like you
sicken me.
Cowboy,
United States of America
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 7.01 PM - 9/19 2001
I guess we're still numb for what happened last week, which is to be expected.
On pins and needles as they say.
Ramon, I notice you are in Ålesund again? I wouldn't mind more pictures from
around there. What a beautiful country.
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 3.54 PM - 9/19 2001
Here is a message for you, RS... :) This is a lovely website, (warning it DOES
take a while to load, but shows a lot of appreciation to other countries from
US)
http://people.delphi.com/andybeals/thankyou.htm
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Ålesund, Norway
Sent: 12.37 PM - 9/19 2001
It isn't that quiet in Norway as in this messageboard. So many visitors, nobody
seems to write messages anymore...
Name: Martin
City, Country: Roden, The Netherlands
Sent: 3.50 AM - 9/17 2001
In a New York Minute...
Thank you Dennis.
Been playing this song the entire week..
Name: Cowboy
City, Country: East Coast, USA
Sent: 3.06 AM - 9/17 2001
I have been so overwhelmed by last week's terrorist attacks on my country by
the sub-human religious fanatics that live in holes in the ground, that I
failed to notice that 40 other countries that also lost their beloved citizens.
Now I know. And my heart goes out to all of you.
When you have pests, such as rodents, cockroaches and sub-human religious
fanatics around you call an exterminator service. Take note, pests.
And the exterminator service has been called, and will be there soon.
Cowboy,
United States of America
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 10.08 PM - 9/16 2001
Ramon
Thank you for the very touching illustrated tributes they are very moving at
this immensely sad time.
Name: Dennis
City, Country: US
Sent: 10.05 PM - 9/16 2001
In a New York Minute
Harry got up
Dressed all in black
Went down to the station
And he never came back
They found his clothing
Scattered somewhere down the track
And he won't be down on Wall Street in the morning
He had a home
The love of a girl
But men get lost sometimes
As years unfurl
One day he crossed some line
And he was too much in this world
But I guess it doesn't matter anymore
In a New York minute
Everything can change
In a New York minute
Things can get pretty strange
In a New York minute
Everything can change
In a New York minute
Lying here in the darkness
I hear the sirens wail
Somebody going to emergency
Somebody's going to jail
If you find somebody to love in this world
You better hang on tooth and nail
The wolf is always at the door
In a New York minute
Everything can change
In a New York minute
Things can get a little strange
In a New York minute
Everything can change
In a New York minute
And in these days
When darkness falls early
And people rush home
To the ones they love
You better take a fool's advice
And take care of your own
One day they're here;
Next day they're gone
I pulled my coat around my shoulders
And took a walk down through the park
The leaves were falling around me
The groaning city in the gathering dark
On some solitary rock
A desperate lover left his mark,
"Baby, I've changed. Please come back."
What the head makes cloudy
The heart makes very clear
The days were so much brighter
In the time when she was here
But I know there's somebody somewhere
Make these dark clouds disappear
Until that day, I have to believe
I believe, I believe
In a New York minute
Everything can change
In a New York minute
You can get out of the rain
In a New York minute
Everything can change
In a New York minute
Don Henley.
Name: Tess Kearns
Sent: 2.11 AM - 9/16 2001
Work like you don't need the money,
Love like you've never been hurt,
Dance like nobody's watching!
Name: Randi Fagervik
City, Country: Mo i Rana, Norway
Sent: 9.34 PM - 9/15 2001
Hello. Ramon was our guest in Mo i Rana from 13.-14. september. He was a very
nice boy and it was interesting to have him in our home for a day. My children
did also like him and he was interested to listen what they had to say.
The local newspaper was here to interview him, and after a few hours he could
read the article in the newspaper.
Ramon was able to read the article in Norwegian; he understood the language! I
was impressed.
We wish him an exciting travel around the world, and he is always welcome back
to Randi and Stefan in Mo i Rana.
Name: Ramon
Sent: 8.37 PM - 9/15 2001
The world mourns, click here for
pictures from all over the world.
Name: Mauriel
City, Country: US
Sent: 6.25 PM - 9/15 2001
Thank you Ramon, for sparing some time to chat with us and share our ideas and
thoughts.
The chat we just had meant a lot to me.
Thanks.
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 5.48 PM - 9/15 2001
A little suggestion for all those who live across the ocean from Europe. USA,
Canada, Central and South America.
The best time to chat on letmestayforaday chat is in the morning or afternoon.
You might catch Ramon online.
The time differences doesn’t allow us to chat at night. Mostly everyone in
Europe might be asleep by then.
Try it out. He’s a nice guy to chat with and so are the other chatters. You
might find a spare moment in your workday or on weekends.
Name: Janske
City, Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 3.56 PM - 9/15 2001
Ramon, thanx for putting up the picture WITH the two towers. Although they're
not there anymore they will always remain inside my head as they now have the
message of freedom and peace. As already said on this messageboard: you're a
messenger of open-minded living and true inyour being human by travelling
around the world. I'm proud to know you as I see the comfort people from all
over the world get here by your site and the words we find here! To all who
suffer in any kind of way: together we believe in a kinder world and that
belief will make it happen one day!
Janske
Name: X
City, Country: US
Sent: 1.52 PM - 9/15 2001
Ramon, please delete Brian D. Sweeney fom Barnstable, Massachusetts in your
database of invitations.
My his soul rest in peace.
Name: Laurie
City, Country: Dallas, TX USA
Sent: 10.32 PM - 9/14 2001
I am so happy to see that I am not alone in the way I feel while reading the
messages from all over the globe! I can't even describe how much that means to
me..... It does bring tears to my eyes and makes my heart feel so good.
PEACE and God Bless!!
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 10.06 PM - 9/14 2001
Like Risa, I also want to thank everyone for their kind words and thoughts. As
I read all the messages from all over I could not help buy cry...........you
all have touched me deeply. Thank you!
Name: Risa
City, Country: Los Angeles, CA
Sent: 8.25 PM - 9/14 2001
I just want to thank everyone in the other countries for being by our side in
our time of sorrow. I cannot begin to express to you just how much it means to
the American people.
From the bottom of my heart, from the heart of my people in towns both large
and small across our nation, we thank you.
Name: S
City, Country: Malaysia
Sent: 8.13 PM - 9/14 2001
After of all of the darkness and sadness
Soon comes happiness
If I surround my self with positive things
I'll gain prosperity
(excerpt from Destiny's Child-'Survivor')
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 6.52 PM - 9/14 2001
The solidarity on this message board has put a big lump in my throat and tears
to my eyes. It is really comforting to read the messages of support..Thank you
to everyone...it strengthens us
Name: Anja
City, Country: Duesseldorf, Germany
Sent: 5.15 PM - 9/14 2001
I tried to join the official church service at noon - but I couldn'd - the
church simply was overcrowded. there were so many people waiting outside of the
church - every face I looked into told me of deep mourning and sadness. Tonight
there will be a candlelight-chain at the shores of the Rhein-river. Travellers
like Ramon make the world a little bit better because of meeting other people
and being open-minded towards different cultures and opinions.
Name: Laurie
City, Country: Dallas, USA
Sent: 3.55 PM - 9/14 2001
Ramon, It makes me smile to read the kind words from the people around the
world ...they are so wonderful!
You have a great group of people following your journey.
It is really so comforting to me.
I pray that you have continued safety. I feel that your web-site is my link to
the rest of the world..... I look forward to reading the new messages.... keep
them coming.
PEACE to all!!
Name: David Brown
City, Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 1.30 PM - 9/14 2001
Dutch Ministry of Defence, The Hague, silent for three minutes at noon today.
Name: Carin
City, Country: The Hague, Holland
Sent: 12.44 PM - 9/14 2001
Just visited the American Embassy at 12 o clock. Silence all around, half mast
flags everywhere, a big crowd of people, most of them with candles or flowers. Very
impressing!
Name: Ferico
City, Country: Jäävinaprä, Finland
Sent: 11.37 AM - 9/14 2001
Sweden and Finland also joint in whit silent.
Name: Brege D.
City, Country: Munich, Germany
Sent: 11.36 AM - 9/14 2001
Also Germany was silent for three minutes.
God bless all.
Name: Ramon
City, Country: Norway
Sent: 11.34 AM - 9/14 2001
3 minutes of silence in Norway, too, at noon.
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 11.27 AM - 9/14 2001
Have just been to the 3 minutes silence at St. Pauls Cathedral and must say, it
was very overwhelming!
Name: Laurie
City, Country: Dallas, TX USA
Sent: 3.28 AM - 9/14 2001
Thank you so much for all of your overwhelming support and prayers coming from
all over the world. You just don't realize how much that means to us. Continue
to pray for us and for Ramon to have safe travels on his journey. Ramon, if you
find your journey brings you to the states please come to Texas....you will
always have a happy place to stay!
Peace and Happiness to all!!
Name: Risa
City, Country: Los Angeles, USA
Sent: 10.34 PM - 9/13 2001
Hi!
I write you the day after our bombing in New York. I try to work, but it is
hard. Fortunately, during lunch I was able to read about your adventures and
see the photos of other places in the world. I wish I was there now. Especially
the Isle of Man, which looks so peaceful.
Thank you for the gift of your photos. They keep me from crying at work.
Name: patricia
City, Country: buenos aires ,argentina
Sent: 10.02 PM - 9/13 2001
argentina is waiting for you...
we have a lot of things to show you.i will give you the patagonia
Name: Sophie
City, Country: Brussels
Sent: 9.46 PM - 9/13 2001
They are all in our thoughts.....
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 3.43 PM - 9/13 2001
Am really touched by all the messages I just read, it is good to know we stick
together in times like these, as together we stand strong (unfortunately, that
also goed for the terrorists).
Name: Martin
City, Country: Roden, The Netherlands
Sent: 12.54 PM - 9/13 2001
Last night I had the strangest dream
I ever dreamed before
I dreamed the world had all agreed
To put an end to war
I dreamed I saw a mighty room
The room was filled with men
And the paper they were signing said
They'd never fight again
And when the papers all were signed
And a million copies made
They all joined hands and bowed their heads
And grateful prayers were prayed
And the people in the streets below
Were dancing round and round
And guns and swords and uniforms
Were scattered on the ground
Last night I had the strangest dream
I ever dreamed before
I dreamed the world had all agreed
To put an end to war
[Simon and Garfunkel - 'Last Night I Had The Strangest Dream']
Name: Martin
City, Country: Roden, The Netherlands
Sent: 12.29 PM - 9/13 2001
Jimmy,
Our thoughts are with you, and all people who are missing people close to them.
Like Judith says : keep your heads up and please know that we are with you!
Name: Judith C.
City, Country: Groningen, The Netherlands
Sent: 10.48 AM - 9/13 2001
Ramon,
Though I cannot listen to the song right now, I am still greatful that you have
put it on your site.
"Me" from the US: thanks for writing down the songtext, I am thinking
of all those people who just wanted to have another working day in the sunny
streets of Manhattan. All American: keep your heads up and please know that we
are with you!
Judith
Name: Alessandra
City, Country: Rome,ITALY
Sent: 9.00 AM - 9/13 2001
Hello Ramon, you are a very pleasant boy, and you have had a very intelligent
idea, congratulations!I hope you do a very good travel!lot of kisses
-alessandra-
PS:if you arrive in rome you can come to my home!
Name: Jimmy
City, Country: USA
Sent: 5.34 AM - 9/13 2001
Thanks Ramon and all for strengthening the awareness of the tragedy. Please
remember in your thoughts of the thousands of unfortunates ones buried
underneath the concrete rubble, including those close to me:
Michael Costello, 27
Kristy Irvine-Ryan
Name: Peace
Sent: 5.10 AM - 9/13 2001
"You may say I'm a dreamer,
but I'm not the only one,
I hope someday you'll join me,
and the world will live as one".
Lets give PEACE a chance.
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 9.52 PM - 9/12 2001
One more note from me. I am proud to see that the country of Panama is flying
their flags at half mast today in memory of the victims of the terrorist
attacks in the US.
Sent: 9.25 PM - 9/12 2001
EVERYBODY VISIT THE LET ME STAY CHAT BOX,
link in the menu at the left.
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 9.06 PM - 9/12 2001
Ramon,
Thank you so very much for the song by John Lenon. I am so grateful. I know a
some about tragedies and hard times. My Dad was in the Army AirCorp during WWII
and was also a military during Pearl Harbor. He told me the horror stories. I
went through horrible times during the Invasion on Panama "Operation Just
Cause" 1989. My brothers and cousins fought in Viet Nam. My firends and
relatives fought in the Persian Gulf War.
This song will be a world wide message to the people. I hope they listen and
understand. Thank you very much.
Nina
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Bodø, Norway
Sent: 8.42 PM - 9/12 2001
MP3 added on my front page, downloadable from 3 webservers.
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 7.46 PM - 9/12 2001
Yes! that is the song I was talking about. Thank you so much "Me" for
sending it. And you remembered all the words to it too. The last time I heard
it was at the end of the movie called "Killing Fields" and that
really made me cry. Some day I will try to get a copy of that song somewhere.
Thank you again, now everyone can read the words to it here.
Name: Me
City, Country: US
Sent: 7.37 PM - 9/12 2001
The song title is Imagine by John Lennon:
there's no heaven,
It's easy if you try,
No hell below us,
Above us only sky,
Imagine all the people
living for today...
Imagine there's no countries,
It isnt hard to do,
Nothing to kill or die for,
No religion too,
Imagine all the people
living life in peace...
Imagine no possesions,
I wonder if you can,
No need for greed or hunger,
A brotherhood of man,
imane all the people
Sharing all the world...
You may say Im a dreamer,
but Im not the only one,
I hope some day you'll join us,
And the world will live as one.
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 7.21 PM - 9/12 2001
Ramon, that is a very beautiful picture of the Twin Towers. It is so calm and
serene. It bought tears to my eyes. I feel sorry and sad for the children who
will never see their mother or father again. For those who will never see their
sister, brother, son or daughter again all because certain people can’t
understand and respect the value of innocent human lives. So many questions run
through our heads. Sometimes we never get the right answers. Generation after
generation go through terrible tragedies worldwide, and we will never
understand why.
I only wish, hope and pray that this world comes to its senses. And that all
the human race can live in peace and harmony. I always remember the song by The
Beatles, I’m not sure if the title is “Remember all the People”. I heard that
song many years ago, and it touched my heart profoundly. I think everyone
should listen to it.
Please try to help if you can by following the links that mm_in_md posted.
To all the people who send their prayers and their condolences I give my
thanks. It’s nice to know that there are nice people in this world too.
God Bless you all.
Name: CORALIE
City, Country: ENGLAND
Sent: 4.48 PM - 9/12 2001
RAMON, WHAT A LOVELY KIND THOUGHT OF YOURS ....
We in ENGLAND pray for EVERYONE in AMERICA , for this gross cowardly injustice
to you and your lovely country.
We are beind America 100% in the fight for justice for this astrocity .
I do not know about politics , but we saw on tv how one country teaches their
YOUNGSTERS in school to be suicide bombers, and these same children PROUDLY
stating this fact .They then went on to show the grandfather of this child who
said if it was GODS will , it is okay !!....GODS WILL .....???????
We also saw these same people yesterday singing and laughing in the street !!
My god , they should get out the enola Gay ....and NOW!
What chance does the whole world have against these sick in the head
terrorists, just what do they hope to achieve ?????
THE MAIN MAN WE SAW ON TV WAS A MAN NAMED IOSEMER ......?? He is alleged to be
behind this sickening act !
I am not religous , but AMERICA I PRAY FOR YOU ALL TODAY !!
CORALIE
FROM
ENGLAND
Name: mm_in_md
City, Country: USA
Sent: 4.33 PM - 9/12 2001
Thanks Ramon, for the beautiful photo of what is now destroyed on your home
page.
If anyone would like to help ease this hateful crime, here are some links:
http://www.redcross.org
*If above link doesn't work (too much traffic),
then contact your local Red Cross Chapter:
http://search.yahoo.com/bin/search?p=red+cross+chapters
Disaster Relief
http://www.disasterrelief.org
Give Blood
http://www.redcross.org/donate/give/
1-800-GIVE-LIFE
Donate Funds
http://www.redcross.org/donate/donate.html
(this allows you to donate online via credit card)
1-800-HELP-NOW
Sent: 4.18 PM - 9/12 2001
Name: CyberMax
City, Country: Bangkok Thailand
Sent: 3.25 PM - 9/12 2001
To: fellows who are burried under the WT buildings
'Rest in peace'
Name: Judith C.
City, Country: Groningen, The Netherlands
Sent: 11.39 AM - 9/12 2001
Thanks Ramon,
For that beautiful picture of those lost buildings; symbols of democracy,
freedom and human rights. The buildings are lost but those terms can never be
broken. Lets be strong and think of all those families, neighbours and so on.
Last night I was talking to a friend of mine who I had called as I couldn't
sleep because my thoughts went to the American people over and over again. I
needed to talk about the disaster. I had been watching television for hours and
I was stunned. And I still am. It is terrible, unbelievable. I am speachless,
but I need to get rid of those pictures that keep on coming up in my mind. That
friend told me not to think of those people who were in the plains, but I am
sorry, I can't help thinking of the minutes before crashing and all things that
happened afterwards... If American people will visit this site in future,
please know that you all have my deepest condoleances. And now... nothing more,
just silence. Silence from the bottom of my heart...
Juut
Name: Den
City, Country: Europe
Sent: 11.03 AM - 9/12 2001
All respect, Ramon. Thanks.
Name: Richard Reekers
City, Country: Nijmegen // Rotterdam -- The Netherlands
Sent: 8.31 AM - 9/12 2001
Ramon, What a fine choice you and yours made by putting The Twins in front in
their full glory. I could't agree more. ETLD -- Richard Reekers
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Bodø, Norway
Sent: 7.51 PM - 9/11 2001
Even anger won't be a solution. My thoughts are with all the victims. Can't
describe how I feel, but you might know yourself...
Name: Cowboy
City, Country: East Coast, USA
Sent: 7.24 PM - 9/11 2001
Those poor sick religious fanatics.
Killing themselves and others in the name of God.
How ironic.
We are not frightened, now we are ANGRY!!!
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver
Sent: 7.11 PM - 9/11 2001
What a sad, sad day. Only wish I could help the families, etc. It is scary how
something like this could possibly happen.
Sent: 6.26 PM - 9/11 2001
I will pray for the victims and their families.
GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Mo I Rana, Norway
Sent: 1.35 PM - 9/11 2001
Dear David Brown (posting below),
I wish I could write more about the personal things that go on in my mind (and
believe me, that's a lot), but I only have limited time to spent writing my
reports. I even am days behind in reporting. Even my way of writing a normal
report can already take one hour. I think the more emotional insights can be
read in the Letmestayforaday-book, to be released after I finish.
The latest news for the world:
Internet Traveller Heads For South Africa!
Name: david brown
City, Country: rotterdam, the netherlands
Sent: 8.59 AM - 9/11 2001
Hi Ramon,
nice work! keep it up. i don't plug in every day to keep up, so maybe that
explains it, but....... I get the feeling that your reports miss a little of
the personal touch.....the inner deeper feelings that go through your mind. I
used to do a lot of travelling about 10 years ago (i'm 35 now). I left ireland,
and went through europe and south east asia, finally settling down in the
netherlands. I kept diaries of my journeys and filled them with not only the
things I saw and did, but also how felt - the ecstacy moments and the sad. it's
not a critisism so don't get on my back - write according to the way you are,
like I did. and maybe as I said it's because i don't check in every day that I
miss the ups and downs of your story. or maybe it's not the purpose (correctly)
of this journey to expose the open, vulnerable side of you to the internet
world. what do you think?
Cheers,
David
Name: Gillian
City, Country: South Africa
Sent: 7.50 AM - 9/11 2001
Hi! I read that you might be visiting South Africa. That would be really great.
I think what you are doing is so cool and I wish you luck on your journey.
Name: Faith
Sent: 4.17 AM - 9/11 2001
To be in hurry is never considered civilised. Do make the time.
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 4.12 AM - 9/11 2001
Evie just be yourself. I’ve seen tourist from all over. From Europe, Asia,
United States, Australia and more. I find it very interesting the diversity of
them all. Tourist visit the unknown, they see and discover new things.They
explore. They are a boost to the economy. If they seem amazed over something in
another country, it’s only because it’s different than what they are used to
seeing. I don’t think it matters at all what they wear, how they talk, or walk,
or the silly questions they may ask. They are fun people who are enjoying
themselves and the world. Imagine if people (tourist) were all to behave
exactly alike, dress alike, and talk alike. What a boring world it would be.You
are an american and no one should change that.
Just be yourself.
Name: Evie
City, Country: Florida, USA
Sent: 3.57 AM - 9/11 2001
I understand that American tourists are maybe not the most appreciated
tourists... I'd like some ideas of what I can do to be a "better
tourist" and not so "typical American" the next time I travel to
Europe. What do you all suggest? (I'm serious, not being snide.) Thanks.
Name: de baas
City, Country: Zwolle
Sent: 2.06 PM - 9/10 2001
Hi Mones,
Good to hear you're getting used to being around those stubborn Scandinavians
(joke!). Damn, man I really miss those Sunday Single Nights. There isn't
anybody left to get angry with! Sorry, I haven't mailed yet, too busy screwing
things up. Take life as it comes or it won't go away!! Mail you soon.
p.s. dj's dil & do are back!!!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: stuck in Trondheim, Norway
Sent: 8.14 AM - 9/10 2001
Cowboy,
Unfortunately I don't have any more time to be resizing the amount of pictures
I publish to little thumbs, so the thumbs that you see are automatically
generated from the original size. I know, slow modems can't eat it, but I can
also just don't place anymore photographs...
To Abby Sher,
If you have to scroll from the left to the right of my website, I suggest you
download a new version of your current browser. I have only encountered that
problem with people who were using a very old version of Netscape or Internet
Explorer.
I am a website programmer myself, but the php-scripting is done by a friend who
doesn't have that much time to work on it, just like me.
There is nothing more I can do, exept from writing and publishing and
continuing my tour.
Name: Abby Sher
City, Country: Los Angeles, USA
Sent: 7.37 AM - 9/10 2001
I love what you're doing but it's very hard to read your site. I keep having to
scroll across the page and sometimes I can't get far enough over to read the
whole line. How about staying with a computer programmer before too long to get
this problem straightened out so we can follow along. Best wishes from LA, Abby
Name: Joy
Sent: 6.33 AM - 9/10 2001
The best organised character is the one who understands most about life in
which he is placed.
Name: Cowboy
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.51 AM - 9/10 2001
You need to reduce the size of your images on your reports pages. Use Paint
Shop Pro or something to make them into real thumbnails. The loading time is
horrible, and I am using DSL. I downloaded one thumb and it was 66.3kb, so
figure that times 10 images and you are killing people with a 56K modem.
http://www.spinwave.com is great to reduce the size of an image.
Giddy
up!!!!
Name: Alessandra Martina
City, Country: Varese,Italy
Sent: 12.33 PM - 9/9 2001
Hi! First of all let me say u really r a cool person and u had a great idea
too!
I wanted to inform u that yesterday on "Corriere della Sera" (most
important Italian newspaper) appeared a pic of u+a map of yr travel+an article
about yr story.
Go on!
Respect.
Name: Cheryl
City, Country: Minnesota, USA
Sent: 6.23 AM - 9/9 2001
I think what you are doing is fantastic. I have two friends that are selling
their home and they are going to buy a sailboat and sail around the world. I am
going to join them, where ever they may be in 5 years.
If you are still traveling about in 5 years, you are more than welcome to sail
awhile with me. I would enjoy the company and your stories of your travels. If
you happen to come to Minnesota...you are always welcome in my home. Good
travels to you!!vikinggirl_97@iwon.com
Name: Elisabeth
City, Country: Ålesund, Norway
Sent: 11.54 PM - 9/8 2001
Hi Ramon.
What a great concept! Thanx for sharing your incredibly interesting travels
with the rest of us. I see that your heading my way...you should really drop by
Ålesund; such a beautiful city.
After living in London for almost three years, I've come to defend my home
country a great deal to the British. But don't we all defend what's ours?? So
the Cowboy from America is simply doing what's natural to him. HOWEVER, after
living away from home, I've also been lucky enough to get an "outside
perspective" of my country and see more clearly things that are not so
good at all, and that there IS a world outside "my univers" that can
teach us a thing or two. It's all about being open-minded as well as
self-critical. I think we could all do with that some times.
Anyway Ramon, I hope us Norwegian treat you well (we're known to be a bit
"sceptical" and "reserved") and that you'll continue to
share your experiences with us all. It's really interesting to see what you
have to say about Norway and its people. Good luck to you!
Elisabeth
Name: Maja Pagel
City, Country: Solroed Strand, Denmark
Sent: 11.26 PM - 9/8 2001
I heard about you on danish radio, and I got curios. How mutch courage dos it
take too travel around the world like you do? I can't have you staying for a
day right now. I'm a woman with 2 teenages, and I think courage is the main
thing in life. Maybe because I lack it myself. I'm 43 ears old and still it
takes all my courage just to raise 2 children and handle there teen-problems
every day. I doo wich, I could transfere some of you courage to them, because I
do think it's important. Without courage You've got nothing, because You
wouldn't dare do the things you wish to doo. Keep the spirit up and god luck
from a mother in Denmark
Name: Elisabetta
City, Country: Milano Italy
Sent: 10.06 PM - 9/8 2001
Congratulations the best way to meet people!!!!
bye have a nice trip
Name: maria
City, Country: milano Italy
Sent: 10.04 PM - 9/8 2001
Your idea is marvellous.My best compliments.
Maria
Name: Francesco Zambianchi
City, Country: Lugo, ITALY
Sent: 4.23 PM - 9/8 2001
Dear Ramon, I'm a 15-years-old boy. I rode about your adventure on the
newspaper. I think you are a boss!! I'd like to travel with you, I'd like to
know different cultures and people too... My town isn't interesting, it's in
the north-east of Italy, in the near of Bologna. If you want to come here I'll
be very happy. Thanks!! Francesc
Name: Sergio
City, Country: Munich
Sent: 1.35 PM - 9/8 2001
they talk about you !
see below:
http://www.corriere.it/edicola/index.jsp?path=TUTTI_GLI_ARTICOLI&doc=GIRO
Enjoy !
Ciao
Name: Silvia Batello
City, Country: Milan, Italy
Sent: 1.35 PM - 9/8 2001
I am 12 years old and Monday I will made a small
lecture in my school about your adventure.
Bye-bye
Silvia
Name: Enrique Samanez
City, Country: Lima Peru
Sent: 9.46 AM - 9/8 2001
Go on Ramon! I will do the same next year. You just receive my invitation and it
is not necesary to be for just one day, till you feel you have to keep on going
Your friend Enrique
Name: shally
City, Country: Beijing, China
Sent: 7.26 AM - 9/8 2001
Hi. Ramon,I am very glad to meet you in this special way. How is the great
project going there? Good luck!
Name: ike.king
City, Country: chengdu,china
Sent: 5.10 AM - 9/8 2001
hey,Roman:what's going on?please give us some news to let us konw you r still
alive.
Name: Martin
City, Country: Holland
Sent: 12.55 AM - 9/8 2001
"We would like you to travel with us from Bergen to Trondheim (2
nights)"
Sorry, i gues your cruising right now! :-)
Have fun!
Name: Martin
City, Country: Holland
Sent: 12.44 AM - 9/8 2001
What's up Ramon? It's getting pretty quite around here..
Are you ok?
Name: Cowboy
City, Country: USA
Sent: 7.38 PM - 9/7 2001
Just cross your fingers because I might give you a call if I want to come and
visit you.
Yeah
right!!!
Name: Grace26
City, Country: San Jose,USA
Sent: 6.17 PM - 9/7 2001
Hi~I heard about you today.I want to become your girl friend.You are so
lovely!:)
Sent: 1.45 PM - 9/7 2001
"Life is not about the journey you make, it's about the roads you
travel" - Buddha
Name: juut
City, Country: Grunn, The Netherlands
Sent: 9.04 AM - 9/7 2001
Hey Big Star!
You're still doing great, though I am still waiting for you to come over and
visit beautiful Groningen and have a nice cold beer with me, or just share a
bottle of white wine, and some cheese and stuff. I know what you like...
Unfortunately I cannot offer you any cigs as I quit smoking for weeks. But
except for that, I'll make you feel at home... However, you don't seem very
interested to travel through the Neth. again and yes you are right: who would
come overhere if you can be in that lovely Norway and so on!!
ALL the best,
love,
Juut
Name: Love
Sent: 8.31 AM - 9/7 2001
Yes, I do agreed with you Karen. Indeed, interNEt and Ramon definItely make
life more interesting.
Name: Karen
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 8.15 AM - 9/7 2001
In response to what Bret from the USA mentioned yesterday, I would like to say
that I think people have the right to response to Ramons reports. He has the
right to write his point of view on certain issues and other people can give
their opinion on that. This is the way we learn from eachother (andisn't the
interent a perfect way of doing that?)!
For Ramon, keep up the good work, love the website and find your opinions very
interesting. I don't always agree with certain things, but hey, I don't have to
as life is mostly about learning new things and listening to different
opinions.
You definetely make my days in the office more exciting!
Name: Samuel Fernandez
City, Country: Curitiba, Brazil
Sent: 7.54 AM - 9/7 2001
Ramon,
You are indeed ubiquitously fantastic!
Name: Udno Likajam
City, Country: Manila, Philippines
Sent: 7.40 AM - 9/7 2001
Little miracle happens everyday, Ramon.
Name: Gurt
City, Country: Hellevoetsluis, Netherlands
Sent: 6.08 AM - 9/7 2001
Ramon,
I've just been reading your problems of crossing the ocean. Perhaps an idea is,
to try to reach Spain, from there on to the Canaries. Here you might be able to
meet a seatraveller crossing the ocean.
Normally (wheather conditions) the time to cross is November..........
Name: acadia
City, Country: maine, usa
Sent: 5.52 AM - 9/7 2001
Another note from an American.
Many, many more people do not recycle than do. Many American adults cannot name
all 50 states, and some cannot name the current president. Loads of Americans
know more about other countries than their own. It is a shame, this is a
wonderful place we live in. And a marvelous planet we live on. I'm glad Ramon
decided to share his view of it with the rest of us.
Acadia
:o)
Name: Gurt
City, Country: Hellevoetsluis, Netherlands
Sent: 5.50 AM - 9/7 2001
Hi Ramon,
I listen to the Dutch radio each morning around 5.30.
Please come in more!
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 11.02 PM - 9/6 2001
Sandi,
I couldn't agree with you more! Ramon's adventure is the best learning
exprience around. It's the only site I constantly visit.
Cowboy,
Did you actually take offense to what Ramon said? Shame, shame. Ramon has the
perspective of looking from the outside in. So what he said is true by his
perspective. Please don't take offense by what he says, but learn more about
yourself and the world from a different view than your own.
As for recycling? We don't do enough!!!!
Name: Preston
City, Country: Hood County, Texas, USA
Sent: 10.53 PM - 9/6 2001
Most Americans ARE blissfully ignorant of world geography. A survey found
recently that some 40 percent of us confuse Australia and Austria. One girl I
met thought Paris was a country! Our president is now enrolled in Geography
101. During the campaign, a reporter stumped him by asking him who our
ambassedor was to an African country he had never heard of!!! (Growing up in
Texas, the world becomes "here, and everywhere else." If you are from
anywhere else in the US, you are a Yankee.) Don't worry, we are happy in our
ignorance. (We cant spell our own language, too.)
I am learning so much, thanks to Ramon. Thank you for sharing. The internet is
making us one. And we had better get used to it.
Name: Sandi
City, Country: Canada
Sent: 4.54 PM - 9/6 2001
Hey, Cowboy!
I couldn't resist mentioning that Americans often assume that Canadians (your
neighbors to the north) live in igloos! Maybe education systems around the
world can be improved to learn more about other countries. In that regard,
Ramon is doing us all a service by providing first-hand information -- so pay
attention - we could learn something!
Ramon: love "travelling" with you! You are teaching us all about the
great world out there by sharing your experiences - it's like being there. Keep
up the good work!
Name: Cowboy
City, Country: USA
Sent: 3.37 PM - 9/6 2001
Just to let people know that when foreigners from Holland visit the United
States they ask, "where are all the cowboys and Indians". Don't
people from
Holland know anything about the United States at all.
A closing note: We DO recycle our trash.
Name: Michael Offe
City, Country: South Australia
Sent: 3.12 PM - 9/6 2001
Hi Ramon,
How are things going? Have you been able to keep you camera and phone? I
haven't been on your site for a few days. Just catching up.
Don't worry about critical comments about your writing style... if you see
something worth improving on do so, but otherwise I think it is fine, not many
other people are providing the worlds population with a 'virtual reality'
world-wide holiday! :-)
I am enjoying it.
By the way I am listening to the Dutch Family programme on our ethnic radio
station 5 EBI FM, here in Adelaide South Australia, it's 11:40pm. No I'm not
Dutch but I enjoy the music.
Best wishes,
Michael Offe,
South Australia.
Name: Askewhead
City, Country: Qingdao,China
Sent: 12.45 PM - 9/6 2001
I admire your courage to travel the world alone.If you need my help,I'll try my
best.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Bergen, Norway
Sent: 2.14 PM - 9/5 2001
Hi Coralie,
I don't really have to keep myself that warm, it is 15 degrees Celcius up here
and with a Mexican gulf stream it doesn't really get that cold on the westcoast
of Norway. But in case it gets cold, I already have a winterjacket and thermic
clothing with me so it won't take any extra weight. Thanks for coming by!
Ramon.
Name: Coralie
City, Country: England
Sent: 12.16 PM - 9/5 2001
Hi Ramon
just thought I'd have a quick see how things are going. Hope you manage to keep
warm , as it's getting colder now, and how will you manage to carry extra loads
i.e.the weight? I'm pleased your mum liked all the emails on her birthday. I
dont think you will ever come to end of this travelling ...just remember to
keep a back up of your files ...and warmest wishes .
Coralie
Name: kristl
City, Country: zwijndrecht,nederland
Sent: 7.42 AM - 9/5 2001
Thank you for your reports. I'm looking forward to it every day. I've a famely
to look after, so I couldn't travel. So it is very nice to travel with you like
this, reading and looking the photos.
Name: Randi Fagervik
City, Country: Mo i Rana, Norway
Sent: 4.26 PM - 9/4 2001
Hello Ramon. I just have invited you to Mo i Rana. You can`t leave Norway
whitout been in Nord-Norway. If you whish to go to Sweden, we live only 40 km
from Sweden, and we can take you to Hemavan or Tärnaby.
Hope we see you in Mo i Rana.
Name: Songtao Ju
City, Country: China
Sent: 3.19 PM - 9/4 2001
Hi,i am vary happy when i read so many people supply you .i have no time to go
to internet,so i am expected
to know where are you now?Can you mail me?
Name: Preston
City, Country: Hood County, Texas, USA
Sent: 3.04 PM - 9/4 2001
Beautiful shots of the fjord crossings. The water and clouds. Monet would love
it. Fortune cookie say: "Ignore silly stupid un-iformed opionions. Be
yourself, Ramon. Let the chips fall where they may. Its your trip and your
journal." Thanks for sharing so grandly!!!!!
September is back. It is raining & cool in North Texas. What is the world
coming to? I love the way you are plowing right through the middle of it, the
world in all its mystery and glory!!!! (China looks especially fertile, from
all the messages. The sleeping giant has awakened? The kids are up, at
least!!!!
Now lets see. The silk road? Samarkhan? Odessa? Beiping?)
Will try to get on a chat next time.
Name: Liuli
City, Country: Taiwan
Sent: 1.01 PM - 9/4 2001
hi...
it's the first time i leave a message here.
very fresh to me!!
i've filled your form weeks ago,i don't know if you remember or not.
about your trip stories,it's really amazing.
so..hope you can have great time in Bergen!!^_^
Name: Journo Jim
City, Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 12.49 PM - 9/4 2001
It'd be a very boring travelogue of Ramon just wrote up the nice stuff, now
wouldn't it? It seems to me that the most sensitive people have proved to be
those who haven't either hosted him, met him or even read all of his reports.
He stayed at my place when he first came to Ireland, and was absolutely great
fun to hang out with for a night. Sure, I wouldn't agree with everything he
wrote (I am actually a fabulous cook), but it's his report and his right to
describe his travels as he experiences it.
Call him up when he's factually wrong by all means. Otherwise, call off the
dogs.
To all the uptight people - you don't have to invite Ramon to your place, so
don't bother getting all sensitive about the people who are prepared to host
him.
Name: Ike.king
City, Country: Shanghai,China
Sent: 4.08 AM - 9/4 2001
hello,Ramon:
i am a newcomer,actually i have just read your story in the newspaper,a very
famous one in china.i think there will be more and more people would like to
invite you to their countries,including me.
i have just read the messages bellow,which r very great encouraging.Ramon,you
should be proud of these buddies who surport or encourage you.it's so wonderful
to carry out the dreams like your way.
keep going,man!you r already very brave.
(have you think about to visit Asia?let me know.)
Name: Connie
City, Country: Buffalo NY
Sent: 8.37 PM - 9/3 2001
Hey Ramon,
I fully enjoy reading about your journey!!! It is such an awsome idea. Looking
forward to you making it across the water to the USA. I also learned of your
travels via Earthlink, as another reader did. I passed this on to friends and
family, so hopefully a few of them will invite you also. Best of luck and be
safe!
Name: dyne
City, Country: Seoul, Korea
Sent: 1.51 PM - 9/3 2001
What a great idea! and what a fun life you're having!!
I wish I had the guts like yours. :)
Hope everyday would be the luckiest day for you, and take care!
Name: GJ
City, Country: Stavanger, Norway
Sent: 1.45 PM - 9/3 2001
Ramon has left the building, and hopefully he got a lift to Bergen. It was nice
to have him here, we had a lot of fun together downtown in Stavanger this
friday. Saturday was a lazy day, nuttin much happened, but yesterday we went to
see Scary Movie 2. It was great. The local newspaper Rogalands Avis had almost
one whole page with an interview and picture of Ramon and me.
Wish Ramon good luck!
PS: To all those whiners out there:
Ramon does say "thank you", he is NOT selfcentered, he is very nice
and is a person that is easy to entertain. So former hosts who complains: Shut
up!!
Name: Hanne
City, Country: Lillehammer, Norway
Sent: 11.12 AM - 9/3 2001
Hallais Ramon.......From now on I`m a new reader of your postings. I really
liked the few I`v all ready read, and will continue the reading. Keep on
travelig and telling us peolpe staying at home how the big world look like!!!!
Have a nice trip in Norway, some off us stiff norvegians(seen the Ringnes
commersial ; ) ?) are happy to have you here!!!
Name: Lauren
City, Country: New Berlin, WI, USA
Sent: 9.58 AM - 9/3 2001
Hello Ramon! Just read your most recent postings and was disturbed to hear
about people complaining about what you write and taking it the wrong way. Just
wanted to say, "Hats off to you!" I think you're doing a wonderful
job and it's been great "traveling" along with you. You're a very
positive and upbeat person!! Keep having fun and just keep ignoring the
naysayers! Cheers, Lauren and Tim Hanaman Can't wait 'til you cross the
Atlantic!
Name: Linda
City, Country: Stavanger, Norway
Sent: 8.47 AM - 9/3 2001
Hi Ramon !
I have just read some of your travel letters ! It was fun to read .. and the
pictures make the stories even more interesting. And I am impressed with the
people who have invited you and looked after you so well too. I shall be
checking on you to see how you get on. I do hope you will enjoy your stay in
Norway and may the rest of your travel be full of good experiences for happy
memories !
Sent: 6.52 PM - 9/2 2001
www.letmestayforaday.com/chat
Let me chat box, now open!
Name: Jeanine
City, Country: Grahamstown, South Africa
Sent: 2.07 PM - 9/2 2001
Hey Ramon :-)
Don't let the people get to you ... your writing is fun, interesting and
objective ... let's see if those complaining can do better!
Keep up the good work boy, there are many like me who are simply addicted to
your website :-)
And congratulations on being four months on the road, who would have thought
.... :-)
Sent: 2.55 AM - 9/2 2001
Forward or back
September is the turning time.
Ask the man whose livelihood
is apples
or the one who lives for love.
So spreading our arms wide
we gather in September
as a cold man searching
after firewood
before the snow
blots out the world.
Richard
Wright, Close
Name: John
City, Country: Philadelphia PA USA
Sent: 8.08 PM - 9/1 2001
Ramon: I think you are doing one hell of a good job. Wish i had the ability to
write as you do. Please do not change the way you have been writing or
thinking.. Phlly awaits you Guy...Best to you..
Name: Winnie
City, Country: Zwolle, Netherlands
Sent: 4.35 PM - 9/1 2001
Hi honeypony!
Congratulations for surviving 4 months today!
X
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 4.34 PM - 9/1 2001
Forgive me Ramon. I shouldn’t get mixed up in things that have nothing to do with
me. Whatever differences there are between you and a host is just that, between
you and them. Sometimes I get carried away and step in when I shouldn’t. I’ll
try not to do that anymore.
And I’ll try to remember that young people are free spirited beings who usually
speak out how they feel, and don’t really mean to offend people.
I know, I have a son your age who by the way agrees with you. So you see,
sometimes older people like me just don’t understand the young ones.
Forget everything I said in the past. Continue being yourself.
I’m still enjoying your reports and beautiful pictures.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Stavanger, Norway
Sent: 2.04 PM - 9/1 2001
Just a public message to everyone. I wish more people would read less between
the lines. I want to give you some examples:
- If I write that it is raining outsite, I get emails from people that say I
should stop complaining, while the fact that it is raining is just an
observation.
- If I write that I stayed in a house that is not the cleanest house I have
ever visited, it doesn't mean that I meant it negatively. I get emails from
people who told me that I should help the people clean or "are you afraid
you get dirty, Ramon?". It was just my opinion and it was the way those
young people live. And I totally did not comment on their way of living, I even
enjoyed it (what the complainers can't read probably), because it reminded me
of my own student life.
- If I write that it is dangerous to travel from Poland towards Moscow because
it is corrupt, do not assault me with something that is just a fact. Check out
the internet for more info or a friend truck driver of mine can tell you all
about it.
- If I write that I won't visit Afghanistan, where Internet is just prohibited,
than it is my F R E E personal choice and I am in NO way offending anybody who
wants to invite me there, because THEY CAN'T!!!
- These are just a few examples of letters I get every day.
It is a shame that every opinion of mine is being taken into pieces or taken so
seriously! I had to loose these thoughts here as those ignorant writings are
really bothering me.
Ramon.
Name: Imelda
City, Country: Stavanger, Norway
Sent: 3.01 AM - 9/1 2001
Hi Ramon,
I saw you in my favourite pub, Checkpoint Charlie in Stavanger, last night.
Youre jacket with your URL gave me a reason to visit your site and I must say I
am really amazed. If I'd seee you again I'll ask for your autograph, because I
am sure you are going to make it someway!
Best regards and kisses (you looked like a nice guy!),
Imelda
Name: Reckless Monkey
City, Country: London
Sent: 8.40 PM - 8/31 2001
You're a nutter, the world needs more Ramons.
Name: Vesna Krsmanovic
City, Country: London, England
Sent: 2.55 PM - 8/31 2001
Well done. Such a great idea. Good luck to you.
Name: John Are
City, Country: Sandnes, Norway
Sent: 10.56 AM - 8/31 2001
We had the joyful experience to be the host for Ramon yesterday. Thank you for
visiting us Ramon. You really are a natural kind, giving and charming person.
You live a rich life, and I thank you for chearing some of you're excperiences
with us(, and Kowalski will sourly miss you).
Hope you're batteries are filled up, and you're ready to travel the
we(s)t-coast of Norway. Good luck and come back anytime! The doors are all open.
And thanks to you, Liv and Gabriel for the pasta-book. Maybe I can make
something else than bad Pizza the next time I get visitors. And if somebody out
there are travelling this direction, make sure you'll give me a notice, you're
all very welcome!(Jalla@operamail.com)
Have spacesuit - will travel!!
John Are (the Djei)
Name: Dranoel Nephets
City, Country: Agra, India
Sent: 7.35 AM - 8/31 2001
RAMON and Hi everyone,
Wake up! Its not a dream, its a 'real' world we are living in. Its a great idea
to know what actually happening on the other side of this planet. Unlike some
sources which paint rosy pictures only. This site should be given an excellent
rating because of its truthfulness expressing those atmosphere. The 'goodness'
about exact reporting is to create awareness that good happenings should be
maintained whereas bad ones should be kept at bay or omitted. Friction had
happened in Ireland, and now the Norway's maelstrom. (Once bitten should be
twice shy away.) Wherever you are, to be in a 'neutral' platform sounds the
right move - to do good reporting. (shouldn't be involved in any brawl)
We need honest and soon-to-be a seasoned character like you Ramon. Get your
grading somewhere in Europe where it is much more civilised (I supposed) before
you come to some bush-bush for some real adventures of a lifetime.
No beer only toddy, young man!
Be joyful and enjoy.
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 1.08 AM - 8/31 2001
LEAVE RAMON ALONE! He stayed here with us in July and we found him to be very
interesting, extremely polite and grateful to us for having him. We were very
sorry to see him leave and he would have been most welcome to stay for a week.
At least he is truthful in writing exactly what he feels and means, unlike some
of the false people we all seem to encounter from time to time, who are nice to
your face and say bad things as soon as your back is turned.
Ramon is a very honest person and it would give a false impression if he only
wrote good things about situations he felt less than happy with. Let him write
what he feels so that we get a more realistic story of his travels.
You can please some of the people some of the time but you can't please all of
the people all of the time!
Good Luck with your fantastic adventure Ramon.
Sylvia
Name: David + Kristina
City, Country: Norway
Sent: 12.11 AM - 8/31 2001
When are you going to write the report from your stay with us in oslo? We want
to know about all the shit you are thinking about us! :) Ha-ha, Have a nice
trip. We can see on the map that you have started to see the REAL NORWAY! Not
only oslo. That is GREAT! And probably, when you leave norway, you have seen
more of the country than both of us have! We envy you! See you, pal!
Name: gladys pavia
City, Country: utica,ny-usa
Sent: 10.28 PM - 8/30 2001
very interrestting to read about your travels-hope i could invite u over but
too far away-safe and healthy trip to you!!!!!
Name: Michelle M. czarka
City, Country: Detroit, MI USA
Sent: 8.04 PM - 8/30 2001
If I had the guts to leave my home and travel around the world as Ramon is
currently doing, I think I would be slightly cocky also. It takes a strong
person to perform this type of activity. Also, travelling non-stop, from city
to city without days of rest in between can be draining. Ramon should be able
to have time to be cranky if that is how he feels. If something rubbed him the
wrong way and he feels the need to express it on his site, then that is his own
choice. He runs and maintains it, it's detailing his life, and there is no
place for censorship in the "real" world. I think it's time that
everyone realizes that people are people, some blend and others clash. That is
life! Lick your wounds and let it all fade away. I believe we are all here
because we support what Ramon is doing. Let's leave it at that and not make it
more difficult or trying by adding unnecessary drama.
Good luck to you, Ramon and look me up if you care to see "Motown"
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 7.05 PM - 8/30 2001
I have never said that Ramon is a bad person. All I believe is that there are
times when one should use a little courtesy, diplomacy and respect towards
others.
I’m sure a lot of us have been through a moment where something about someone
bothered us, but we didn’t mention it because that person is a nice person.
Some call it manners or etiquette. Maybe I’m old fashioned.
Sirri felt offended by his remark. It’s only human nature to feel that way as
we each have our dignity to guard.
Those of you who are criticizing her, just can’t understand that. I’m sure you
would be defending yourselves, if it were you.
You don’t have to “sugar coat” everything you say, but at times, you should be
careful not to offend certain people. I’m not complaining, I was just adding my
point of view to this messageboard. (Whether it matters or not).
In the end, this is Ramon’s project and webpage. He has a right to say or write
whatever he wants. And I’m sure 99% of the host have enjoyed his visit. Yes, he
was a nice gentleman that night in the pub defending a lady in distress
Name: Lesley
City, Country: Durham, NC US
Sent: 5.29 PM - 8/30 2001
Ramon- No doubt you will get a lot more attention in the US as Earthlink (a
major ISP in the USA) has publicized your site as one to watch. I'm glad they did,
I checked it out and think your idea is wonderful. I really enjoy your reports
and wish you the best of luck on your journey. I vote for a visit to Letterman.
Sent: 5.17 PM - 8/30 2001
Name: Alan
City, Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 4.25 PM - 8/30 2001
Hi Ramon,
Just been reading again over the reports of your stay with me. It was really
great to have you over, and the best of luck for the rest of your trip.
That incident with the whole fight and fist and face and fracas got me wondering
-> have you done anything about learning some basic self defence? On your
travels you will encounter more people than the group of charming, witty and
devastatingly attractive people that offer you a place to stay. It appears that
the species Drunkus A**holeus is, unfortunately, far too widespread. Wherever
you go, you are going to run across the breed. A bit of self-defence would seem
to be extremely prudent, though how you would get around to it is beyond me.
Any self defence instructors out there willing to invite Ramon for a stay and a
bit of intruction in the noble art of 'Crunch Sheeeeeit' (kicking in the
kneecap and running away real quick-like)?
Whats the story with sponsorship of camera's and stuff? Any way for you to set
up some sort of PayPal thang? I'd be willing to contribute, even if you do have
a picture of me with a towel on my head on your site [grin].
Anyway, good luck, and try to get down south again before winter comes. Last
time I was in Oslo I saw some very sad Brass Monkeys* running around [grin].
Be Careful Out There!
rgds
Alan
* Brass Monkey reference -> English saying 'Brass Monkey Weather', weather
so cold that it would make the balls fall off a Brass Monkey (statue). *tink*
*tink*
Name: Josh
City, Country: Germany
Sent: 4.05 PM - 8/30 2001
"go and complain somewhere else... It states clearly from the beginning
that he writes what he thinks. And let him."
Yes, right, and what is the meaning of a message board?
Only say "hooray" u r such a sweet and lovely guy?
If he only writes, what he thinks, why dont YOU and HIM allow all users, to
write what THEY think about him ands his point of view?
And a message board shall be usually a forum to have a controversal discussion
If any remarks or critical opinions are not allowed here, why is such message
board then existing?
Anyway, Ramon, have a safe journey, and always do not forget to protect
yourself!!
Name: baxter
City, Country: beirut, lebanon
Sent: 3.43 PM - 8/30 2001
eheheh
nice idea but you better come south before it gets freezing colod out there!!!
Name: Sophie
City, Country: Brussels, Belgium
Sent: 3.38 PM - 8/30 2001
He was polite when he stayed with me.....
and he is welcome any day again.
To all the people that complain - go and complain somewhere else... It states
clearly from the beginning that he writes what he thinks. And let him.
Sophie
Name: billy
City, Country: japan
Sent: 3.17 PM - 8/30 2001
and when did this happen? over three days ago, let it go Siri, or you might
need help
;-)
(just kidding, let's put sand on it, as the Dutch say)
Name: Siri Holmsen
City, Country: Norway
Sent: 12.15 PM - 8/30 2001
Comment to "billy from japan": I get so frustrated when I read your
messages here, and I really can not understand how you can have so many
feelings and meanings , and such a large mouth (!) about this when you werent't
even been here! I have tried from the beginning to stay polite, calm, serious
and sticking to the subject, which I think people should be in any
circumstances. We are adults aren't we?
Comment for Christine from Virginia Beach: I fully respect your oppinion. Maybe
what Ramon says about saturday night is exactly what I mean when I think he is
self-centered and arrogant? I agree with that it was nice of Ramon to take
responsibility and got the Danish guy away, allthough I do not agree in Ramon's
story about it. Offcourse this is his project and he is writing from his point
of view, so I don't want to question this. I just think it's quite odd that
people who read his reports don't seem to understand that all things have
atleast two sides. How Ramon sees things is maybe not the way others see them?
That is exactly why this messageboard was such a good idea.
Thank you for your time.
Name: Espen
City, Country: Norway
Sent: 10.23 AM - 8/30 2001
Ramon I realy like your project and admire your courages, but I just cannot
understand how peoples can me so lowminded too always complain about those
little thing. It is like they have noghting else to doo.
Itotally agree with billy from japan (?)
Name: Espen
City, Country: Norway
Sent: 10.07 AM - 8/30 2001
:-)
Thumbs up, billy!
Name: billy
City, Country: japan
Sent: 10.05 AM - 8/30 2001
oh boohoo!
ramon does not say thank you for one time and then you start to get
dissapointed by him?
#######! What is wrong with you people!
Ramon is travelling the world, I can imagine that he sometimes can forget the
words Thank You in the speed he is travelling. But doesn't he say Thank you
through his report? Just read between the lines, also at Siri's place. RAMON IS
THANKFUL!
Now stop complaining, there is a life to live!
Name: Martin
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 9.43 AM - 8/30 2001
Hi Ramon and everyone!
I must agree with **** and Siri. What I've heard from some of the hosts and the
impression Ramon gave me, is that he seemes ungrateful(maybe exept for his
sponsors). This may be caused by different cultures, but in Norway it's very
normal to say thank you when people give's you food, drink, shelter and
cigarettes and not just take everything for granted like Ramon obviously does.
For those of you that wrote and think "Maybe you must also think about the
fact that criticism is not always meant in a negative way. If you don't want to
support Ramon, don't but stop this nonsense about he having to say thank you, I
am sure he does that every time he stays at someones house. Also, have you read
all the positive stories from the people he stayed with? They were all very
pleased with Ramons'behavior so you should shut up or start supporting ramon
because that's where this website is for!" do you really think that Ramon
can criticise everyone and everything without someone criticise him. And I
don't think this website is just for the people supporting Ramon. Shouldn't
people who invite him know both his goods and bads?
Well. I think this project is a good one and I wish you good luck on your
travels Ramon, but please be a bit more humble when people invite you to stay
with them. Try to bring out the positive instead of the negative.
The
End!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Sandnes, Norway
Sent: 9.36 AM - 8/30 2001
To Christine in Virginia Beach, USA, thank you for your great compliments!
Name: Udno Likajam
City, Country: Quezon City, Philippines
Sent: 8.03 AM - 8/30 2001
(Host's feet-stunk, house-awful, they made me eat crap)
'Words are CHAMELEONS, they reflect the colour of their environment.'
Take care and see you at the end of the journey.
UL
Name: Christine
City, Country: Virginia Beach, USA
Sent: 4.03 AM - 8/30 2001
I was surprised to read that Sirri (from the Oslo visit) posted here about
Ramon. I thought he sounded very gentlemanly that evening towards Sirri- he
even took a hit in the nose when that guy was bothering her and her friends!
I think this is one of the best travel sites I've ever seen. It details
perfectly what the cities are like, what there is to do on a normal day, not
what you'd find in a tour guide. Great job Ramon! Just try not to get into any
more bar brawls, ok?
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 1.45 AM - 8/30 2001
I don't tolerate impoliteness. Otherwise, I think Ramon is a great guy and I
enjoy his travels very much. I have been reading them since Day 1.
Good night Martin. I'll have that drink some other day. Thanks
Name: Martin van Tuijl
City, Country: Roden, Holland
Sent: 1.31 AM - 8/30 2001
Sorry for the screw-up below. F#cking messageboards..,
Name: Martin van Tuijl
City, Country: Roden, Holland
Sent: 1.29 AM - 8/30 2001
It’s amazing how messages posted on message boards can be misinterpreted...
This will stay a big problem because a lot of people on 'the net' writes
English as good as you do. No offence! Hope you understand what i mean...
Want to go out for a drink sometime? ;-)
Respect
It’s amazing how messages posted on message boards can be misinterpreted...
This will stay a big problem because a lot of people on 'the net' writes
English as good as you do. No offence! Hope you understand what i mean...
Want to go out for a drink sometime? ;-)
Respect
..don't write English as good as you do..
(see what i mean?) :-)
Name: Martin van Tuijl
City, Country: Roden, Holland
Sent: 1.25 AM - 8/30 2001
It’s amazing how messages posted on message boards can be misinterpreted...
This will stay a big problem because a lot of people on 'the net' writes
English as good as you do. No offence! Hope you understand what i mean...
Want to go out for a drink sometime? ;-)
Respect
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 1.15 AM - 8/30 2001
It’s amazing how messages posted on message boards can be misinterpreted.
My point is not entirely about Ramon’s drinking patterns. What I can’t
understand is that why put in a negative sentence about a particular host in
such a long report about his stay at one place? He can refuse a drink all he
wants, but why does he have to write a suggestive sentence implying that his
host is over bugging him to drink. Yes we can read the good and the bad about
his travels, but it is a bit improper to criticize a host personally. He might
say it rained all day, I got socked in the face by this guy etc. and that’s
okay. But would it sound nice if he were to say. My host’s feet stunk, their
house is awful, they made me eat crap, (all their faults)? If I stayed in his
home one day, would he like to read on Internet that I said: “Ramon just kept
on nagging me to eat more when I already told him no a hundred times, what a
hard headed guy”
Does that sound nice? It has nothing to do with travels. It’s a personal
insult.
And I don’t care what anyone thinks. It’s impolite!
And yes, let’s change the subject. I like Jay Leno more than Letterman
Name: Martin van Tuijl
City, Country: Roden, Holland
Sent: 1.04 AM - 8/30 2001
Forgot something:
Maybe for the second or third time; please don't forget that Ramon is trying to
translate his feelings from Dutch into English. I've been there, and i know how
hard that is sometimes.. (just check my spelling and you know what i mean)
Cheers
Name: Martin van Tuijl
City, Country: Roden, Holland
Sent: 12.42 AM - 8/30 2001
I don’t think he should mention the negative part of it on his reports, as it
will offend some of his guests...
If there is one great thing about Ramon, it should be the fact that he reports
about his feelings. Positive AND negative. He is sharing a VERY special time in
his life with 'us'. Maybe it's a Dutch thing, i am not sure, but it's very easy
to play 'mister nice guy'. The way Ramon reports about his feelings has my
greatest respect.
Don't stop sharing your feelings with us Ramon! It's what makes you special,
believe me. 99% of your past hosts will agree with me.
Take care!
I will drink a 'blonde rakker' on you! ;-)
Name: Chan
City, Country: Hong Kong
Sent: 12.37 AM - 8/30 2001
Hi everyone,
I think the Letterman idea is good; but if Ramon thinks he is overrun with
journalists already, wait till he gets to the US! They can't seem to get enough
of people like him there.
Interesting to read the messages every day - I liked the bit about the clean
railway stations in Norway, with the recycling bins everywhere...you will find
the same thing in Japan, I thought it was great. I have just come back from a
holiday in England where there were no bins anywhere in the stations, at first
I was disgusted until I realized it was for security reasons (ie they're afraid
of bombs). A bit sad isn't it?
I have tried to email before, but the hotmail was not delivered. Do you need
any more hosts in Hong Kong?
All the best..
Sent: 11.13 PM - 8/29 2001
Direct address is:
Email David Letterman
Name: Me
City, Country: Colorado
Sent: 7.39 PM - 8/29 2001
hey John and all...
went to Letterman website, under "Show Info" you can Email them a message...if
they get bombarded...
Name: John J Davison
City, Country: Philadelphia PA
Sent: 7.32 PM - 8/29 2001
I think he would have a better time on Letterman. Let try to get letterman to
notice him...
Name: Siri Holmsen
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 7.21 PM - 8/29 2001
I really did not mean to start such a large discussion when I wrote here to
Ramon. Weather he drinks or not is not my point _at all_! For my personal sake
I want to underline that all I wanted was to let Ramon how I felt when I read
his report. I thought I could use this media as a place to give him feedback.
My main point is that I thought he was _impolite_ in general and didn't seem to
appreciate what his hosts did for him.
Name: Me
City, Country: Colorado
Sent: 7.16 PM - 8/29 2001
Well, we've taken up lots of space on the message board with this-not that it
isn't important. You can't please all the people all the time. If you go
through life without pissing people off sometime-then you are a saint. Anyone
want a different subject??? Hmm...I like Letterman better than Leno, I wish he
would be invited to BOTH! :) Anyone?? Anyone??
Name: Michael
City, Country: UK
Sent: 7.11 PM - 8/29 2001
"You have accepted drinks from other hosts without complaining" ???
Am I the only one who thinks negative about this sentence. I somebody does not
want anything, WHY would it be impolite to refuse it? If I would travel 4 hours
a day, like Ramon does, in hot summer sons, I don't think I would be thinking
about drinking a lot of alchohol.
Still, nice how this page learns us about other people!
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 7.04 PM - 8/29 2001
Correction for message below,
"You have accepted drinks from other hosts". I wrote
"guest". I meant to write "Hosts". Sorry.
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 6.59 PM - 8/29 2001
I have read all of Ramon’s reports. I notice that at times, he enjoys drinking,
and he’ll even get drunk. Then at other times, he doesn’t want to drink, and
gets impatient when the person insists. My understanding of this is that it
depends on whom he’s with and how he feels at the moment. I’m not sure. But
either way, I don’t think he should mention the negative part of it on his
reports, as it will offend some of his guests. You’re either a drinker or not. When
you speak negatively about how a person insisted that you have a drink. It may
make the person feel that you dislike drinking with them. They take it
personally. You have accepted drinks from other guests without complaining.
That’s just my thoughts. Don’t have to bombard me with rocks now.
Name: billy
City, Country: japan
Sent: 6.13 PM - 8/29 2001
guess ya right ramon,
but those people will alwys be here - may have no further live
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Kristiansand, Norway
Sent: 6.11 PM - 8/29 2001
Sorry Guro from Hedemark.
Sorry for writing my own opinion.
Sorry for writing my own opinion on the internet.
Sorry for sharing my own opinion with you.
I don't mean to hurt you by sharing my opinion.
I think I should just stop writing my own opinions if I hurt people with it. I
guess the internet is not that free as people are constantly judging other
people on WHAT they write. Just look at this page here.
Ramon (you are welcome to complain about this writing too, but please know it
comes straight from my heart!)
Name: Guro
City, Country: Gaupen, hedemark
Sent: 4.09 PM - 8/29 2001
Hello. I think you shall know a bit more about the background for the royal
vedding without knowing anything about the background! You say that they don't
show any feelings. you see: In Norway, everything Mette-Marit does is wrong to
soeone. If she had showen too much feelings, she would probebly have been to
mush "a girl from the people" and that that wasn't the right way of
acting in a royal wedding! It makes me really sorry to read what you wrote
about the wedding.It hurts. Hope you understand.
Name: Siri Holmsen
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 3.59 PM - 8/29 2001
Hi again Ramon!
First I thank you for responding to my message so quickly, and also thank you
for removing the picture I asked you to.
I do not want to start a big argument here. I just wanted to let you know what
kind of feeling and impression I, as your host, had after you left. I am
intitled to an oppinion, am I not?
As a reply to your comment, Ramon: The reason why I told you what I thought
about your stay _after_ you left, was simply that I didn't have the chance to
read it earlier since you worked on the page till I took you to your next host.
I once again want to wish you a nice trip! I hope I have made you think twice
about how your hosts might feel it, and maybe you could turn the whole
situation around, and think about how you would have wanted people to behave in
your home? Just a suggestion.. =)
Thank you once again for your time.
Siri
Holmsen
Name: Michael
City, Country: UK
Sent: 3.45 PM - 8/29 2001
It seems that most complaints Ramon gets are about the alcohol he refuses, just
like the big riot he created when he was in Ireland on June 30.
But:
""Do you want vodka then, instead of beer?"
No thank you and it was getting hard to me to stay friendly in me saying No all
the time (no offence: Sirri understood it since then)."
Sirri, haven't you seen the last line between the ()? He is not talking to you
but explaining everything to the rest of us. I think you are the self-centered
person here!
Name: Melissa
City, Country: Brugge, Belgium
Sent: 3.35 PM - 8/29 2001
Good going Ramon!
Tell everybody how it was and leave the sugar coating. We all know people open
doors for you to show their hospitality, but they shouldn't be so offended as
Siri below - as you know Ramon will write about it!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Kristiansand, Norway
Sent: 3.30 PM - 8/29 2001
It is expectable during this project that not everybody is as positive about my
staying with them. Siri, maybe I did get to deep into the drinking-part with
you; but also see it as a statement to other people.
That what I wrote is what happened, and of course I know you all meant it the
positive way.
If you see me as a self-centered person and arrogant, than that is your
opinion, I did not behave anything different from other people's visits, that
is for sure.
What I did notice is that everything happening was turning around me, while I
am just the guest. I don't want to sound un-thankful (because I appreciated the
whole stay with you), but I do this project to experience the people in
different countries and to taste a bit of the culture; not to be a celebrity
that visits your house.
To bad you had to say your thing AFTER I left, you could have tould about it as
I was sitting on your couch. That just tells a little bit about you.
The picture of your house has been removed on your wish.
Name: Siri Holmsen
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 3.18 PM - 8/29 2001
Hello Ramon!
I hope you are enjoying your trip! I just wanted to ask you if you could do me
one favour, please? Could you please remove the picture you took from outside
my house? I think there are too much personal information on your report from
your stay here as it is, so please drop that picture. Ok?
I also want to tell you I was really diseapointed when I read your raport from
your staying here. And I really can not understand how you can turn something
that was ment so well, into something negative. (I am talking about the
drinking-part saturday) I also want to add that I think you seemed to be a very
self-centered person, and that you didn't seem to appreciate things you got. I
think you should show people who open their homes to you a little more
gratitude and not be as arrogant as you showed us you were.
I hope you will think about what I have written here, so that other hosts to
come will not get the same feeling when they are nice enough to let you stay in
their homes... =)
Siri Holmsen
Name: anke
City, Country: netherlands
Sent: 2.32 PM - 8/29 2001
To *** the person who doesn't dare to tell us his/her name: Maybe you must also
think about the fact that criticism is not always meant in a negative way. If
you don't want to support Ramon, don't but stop this nonsense about he having
to say thank you, I am sure he does that every time he stays at someones house.
Also, have you read all the positive stories from the people he stayed with?
They were all very pleased with Ramons'behavior so you should shut up or start
supporting ramon because that's where this website is for!
anke
Name: *****
City, Country: Norway
Sent: 2.12 PM - 8/29 2001
Stop complaining!! And I agree. When people give you something they don't
expect a big "I owe you" for the rest of my life, but a simple thank
you. These people are giving you things for free and opening their homes for
you. Ok, if you think it's dirty when you arrive to someones home, help them to
clean up or take the dishes, as a thank you for the food and shelter.
And is it really true that it was this other guy who was rude saturday night? I
think that your story smells to much of: I'm a prince on a white horse comming
to the rescue.
Where are you manners??
Name: meimei
City, Country: Taipei, Taiwan
Sent: 3.59 AM - 8/29 2001
Hi, Ramon,
I knew your name and interesting trip from our local newspaper. Hope you would
like to visit us to Taiwan, a small beautiful island from the east of China
Sea, in the future. Good luck and take care!
Name: Jeff
City, Country: USA
Sent: 11.53 PM - 8/28 2001
Hey Ramon, come down to Iraq with us, we'll be leaving Amman October 18 or
there abouts. I'll post details soon. http://saveageneration.org
Name: Ivannia B.
City, Country: Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Sent: 11.46 PM - 8/28 2001
Hi Ramon!
My English is not so good, but I just wanted to say to you GOOD LUCK!!!
What you do is so interesting, take care of yourself OK
Ivannia
Name: berta
City, Country: aachen, brd
Sent: 9.34 PM - 8/28 2001
your sites are loading to slowly, i was interestet, but i lost my
patience...sorry
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 10.35 AM - 8/28 2001
To Melissa of Belgium,
Firstly, my apology if I have stirred and messed up the messageboard. I guessed
a guest who seems to be complaining brings great service to the host. And I
figured it must have been terrible situation to experience life going at 4x
faster than normal.
Please do forget those multiple messages, do call it a day and enjoy.
Regards,
Leonard
Name: E. C. Goeiemiddag
City, Country: OSS, The Netherlands
Sent: 6.03 AM - 8/28 2001
Hi Ramdolf the rednose-deer,
Take care of your face, or you might not complete the year. There are some
countries with low life-expectancies. And they don't give much for a human
life. So think first. I hope you 'll 've many children.
regards,
E. C. Goeiemiddag
Name: Evelyn Summers
City, Country: Houston,Tx USA
Sent: 2.54 AM - 8/28 2001
Roman Good luck
on your jounary around the world.Ienjoyed all your information you wrote
.looking for more later.
Evelyn
Name: Steve Flynn
City, Country: Franklin, N.J. USA
Sent: 12.32 AM - 8/28 2001
Just learned of your great adventure. Will be following. Wish you the best when
you get to US. Hope you make it to Sussex County and near by PA. Beautiful
country. Can't put you up but will help any way I can if you get to this area.
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 10.50 PM - 8/27 2001
To Melissa from Belgium,
Welcome to Ramons message board. As for "LSOM"? Who knows? We just
let him "be himself" and call it a day. Just enjoy the variety of
life that is offered on this board. Take Care.
Name: Sverre Bjostad Graff
City, Country: Trondheim, Norway
Sent: 9.36 PM - 8/27 2001
Supernatural happenings can be explored in the valley of Hessdalen, South
Trondelag. This is the place where you can find one of the few UFO observation
sites in the world. For decades, strange lights have been seen in the sky
almost every night. Scientists still don't know what causes these lights, but
visiting Hessdalen, you'll get a good chance to visit these strange
light-phenomenons yourself.
Name: Eivind Skåre
City, Country: Drammen, Norway
Sent: 5.55 PM - 8/27 2001
Hi there!
As I came home from work today I saw you at the train station here in Drammen.
I was walking just behind you and reading the banner on your back-pack. So when
I came home I went online to check out what this was all about. I guess you
already have a place to stay for the night - but if not you are welcome to come
and spend a night on my sofa. I will post my addy on your list, just in case.
Greetings from Eivind 28
Name: Laurent Comeau
City, Country: Montreal, Canada
Sent: 5.51 PM - 8/27 2001
Everyone is talking about you here. Radio-Canada, our national TV has
mentionned a few things about you. I have already invited you to stay here, but
I haven't a clue when that will be. At this rythmn, you will not be here until
late fall. You are very welcomed to stay here: I will take you around the city
and offer food and rest.
Cheers,
I hope this is still fun for you.
Laurent
lcomeau@montreal.cirquedusoleil.com
Name: Maria
City, Country: Blankenberge, Belgium/Finland
Sent: 4.27 PM - 8/27 2001
Hi Ramon! Just wanted to let me know that I haven't given up yet in trying to
wake up the Finnish media.
A friend of mine has contacted a radiostation and they sounded very interested.
Hopefully they get in touch with you soon so that you can get some publicity
over there! Now still Sweden ...
Good luck and a lot of greetings
Maria
Name: Preston
City, Country: Hood County, Texas, USA
Sent: 4.09 PM - 8/27 2001
Greetings Ramon, in mystic Norway of Fyords (sp?) and Mountain Kings!
Just found out. I get to go to India in February. For six weeks. Maybe our
ships will cross! (I will go as a vagabond with back-pack.)
All the best.
Preston
PS: Try to take that brake soon. Too much of a good thing can kill you!
Name: Melissa
City, Country: Belgium
Sent: 12.41 PM - 8/27 2001
I like how this messageboard has become this little community on the web.
But I DONT UNDERSTAND THIS "LSOM", who just posts things I just don't
understand.
LSOM, can you explain your posting for people with average intelligence,
because I just don't get it about the lackadaisical syndrome and the right
momentum. Talk straight! We all do.
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
Sent: 7.05 AM - 8/27 2001
Maria,
It seems that Ramon is caught in the maelstrom of Norway amidst the temporary
lackadaisical syndrome and "so - so" malaise. Though it may be a bit
confusing in reading the report (not yet a book) but it is part of the
atmosphere. Put that TRUST on Ramon to rectify the situation.
Ramon, a right schedule is necessary to attain the right momentum. Take
care.
Name: Maria
City, Country: Svenborg, Danmark
Sent: 5.36 PM - 8/26 2001
Ramon, but why did you write the reports of Frederericia, Århus and Aalborg,
when you didn't even finisch the onces from Copenhagen.
I think you must take them in the right order, thats nice for the people how
reads them, it's like a book then. But now it's confucing!!!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Sent: 3.10 PM - 8/26 2001
Maria, it is a good question.
Please know not everybody who invites me has internet and writing a report
takes a lot of time and energy which makes it just impossible for me to write
three reports on one day. I'll be sitting behind a computer for half the day
then!
I just hope that I can find a place to stay for longer than a few days, because
I think I can really use a break. To update and to take a rest, because my life
is going 4x as fast as normal right now.
I hope you understand the situation.
Name: Maria
City, Country: Svendborg, Danmark
Sent: 3.04 PM - 8/26 2001
Hey Ramon,
Why are you not finisching your last reports from Copenhagen, you wrote the
reporst from your days in Danmark after you where in copenhagen, but why not
finicsh the Copenhagen reports first!!?
Name: myrto
City, Country: zürich, switzerland
Sent: 2.51 PM - 8/26 2001
hy ramon, this projekt is the best i've seen for a loooong time...
congratulations....
let me know, when you would like to visit switzerland...or have you allready
been there?...
anyway, i'll stay tuned...
and on top of it, i'm going to talk about your projekt tonight in my
radioshow... so i hope it'll help you a little bit... have fun
m
Name: David R. Simmes
City, Country: Northridge, California USA
Sent: 10.05 PM - 8/25 2001
RAMON: My son is the tatoo artist you stayed with in Oslo. He called and let me
know about your trip. My wife and I have submitted an invitation and confirmed.
Would look forward to having you stay with us when you are in Los Angeles,
California, if possible. Just look at this as a continuation of our family's
hospitality. While in Europe, the people treated us so well that there is
little that we can do to repay them for their generosity.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Sent: 6.55 PM - 8/25 2001
Ning, why doubt your English? It looks fine to me.
Name: Ning
City, Country: Tianjin, China
Sent: 3.47 PM - 8/25 2001
Ramon, welcome to China. Good luck to you.
I have a little question, Will you come to my place if my english is does not
well ?
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Sent: 3.37 PM - 8/25 2001
Hi Björk,
You would be the first to invite me in Iceland and I have been close to your
country when I was in Northern Ireland.
If I would get enough invitations in Ireland I can certainly overthink the
opportunity to go there and try to find a (air)company that would support me in
promoting Iceland.
Regards,
Ramon.
Name: Björk
City, Country: Reykjavík, Iceland
Sent: 3.16 PM - 8/25 2001
Hi :)
just wanted to know if you had thought about coming to Iceland.... I was
thinking about inviting you but then I realised you probably wouldn´t come here
anyways... it´s a bit far away from everything and you seem to be going the
other direction as well...
keep up the good work
Name: Bjørnar
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 1.26 PM - 8/25 2001
Ramon has now left the building, and is off to the next host.
I wish Ramon good luck with the rest of his journey, you guys out there must
just let the word spread, so the invitations increase!
PS! To Van from Guangzhou - great city, I was there in january this year, loved
it :-)
Bjørnar
bjornar@vpn.no
Name: Van
City, Country: Guangzhou, China
Sent: 8.43 AM - 8/25 2001
China welome you!
Name: Mike
City, Country: Florida, USA
Sent: 3.05 AM - 8/25 2001
I hope you get this ok because my ISP has been known to eat email. I live in
the US and I read about you in www.wired.com and I started reading your journal
and I am hooked! I just can't stop reading!
I used to travel a lot by hitching and staying at stranger's houses so I know
what it feels like. Those where some of my best memories. Enjoy your time, and
live it to the max!
PS... watch out for all of the alcohol, as it will eventually start to pull you
down.
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 1.30 AM - 8/25 2001
Hi Ramon
Just caught up with your latest reports as I have been away for a few days. I
hope you will soon get sponsorship for a new digital camera and mobile phone as
it might be impossible for you to illustrate your reports and to contact your
future hosts. Good luck with that! It would appear that your hosts think that you
like pasta as you seem to get it most evenings for your meal! You must have had
a huge variety of pasta dishes, which was your best/worst? You don't appear to
have had another Cottage Pie like I made for you when you were here Ramon!
Happy travelling, bye for now.
Regards
Sylvia
Keep up the
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Sent: 9.43 PM - 8/24 2001
Amount of members of the mailinglist:
599
who sets the standard?
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Sent: 9.38 PM - 8/24 2001
Number of invitations at this moment:
Norway: 43, but few in the north
Sweden: 4
Finland: 4
Denmark: 83
Russian Federation: 2
Would I make it to St.Petersburg or Moscow?
Name: Preston
City, Country: Hood County, Texas, USA
Sent: 9.31 PM - 8/24 2001
Wired opened some doors with its negativity! I bet you get over here. Odds are
in your favor. Enjoy Scandinavia while you can. You know that Finland leads to
Russia! I am writing my e-pal in St. Petersburg!
All the best.
Preston
Name: kristina
City, Country: Norway
Sent: 9.16 PM - 8/24 2001
Hi Ramon! Have you had many invitations in norway after being in Dagbladet? Any
in sweden, yet?
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 7.28 PM - 8/24 2001
Ramon,
Looks like CNN and Wired.com did a great job of getting the word out about you.
Lot's of new people on the message board. Any new news about your sponsorship
problems? Please keep us informed, and any thing we can do as a
"whole" to help. Keep on Truckin'.
Sent: 2.00 PM - 8/24 2001
Question:
What do you call intelligent men in the USA?
Answer:
Tourists!
Name: Backup team Netherlands
Sent: 12.30 PM - 8/24 2001
AT THIS MOMENT OVER 75 PEOPLE ARE VISITING THIS WEBSITE PER MINUTE!!!
Please understand that is a reason for the website being very slow at busy
times.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 12.15 PM - 8/24 2001
Norwegian newspaper Dagbladet:
"Reise-Ramon
på nett"
Great pictures!
Name: Maria
City, Country: Blankenberge, Belgium/Finland
Sent: 8.23 AM - 8/24 2001
Heippa Mark from Finland! When I wrote to the messageboard the last time (18
July) there had so far been 3 invitations from Finland, one of which is from my
friend Miika. Perhaps there are already more by now?
Has the Finnish media already discovered Ramon?
I have tried to contact newspapers (HS, IS) and radiostations (Radiomafia,
Radio x3m etc) over there. The eveningpaper IS (Ilta-Sanomat) let me know they
would report about Ramon - but I have no idea if they ever did. Please try to
help Ramon getting publicity in Finland. I think it's a matter of now or never
if we want him to visit our beautiful & special country.
And I think it's amazing that a high-tech country as Finland wouldn't be
interested in Ramon's unique internet project.
Ramon, have a super time in Norway! I hope you will make it across the Baltic
Sea.
Maria
Blankenberge, Belgium
Name: Mark
City, Country: Espoo, Finland
Sent: 7.52 AM - 8/24 2001
Interesting, nobody from Finland has sent you an invitation :) I read about you
on WiredNews 'bout half an hour ago. They were telling you have trouble
crossing the big ocean. I have a wild idea for you. Look at the world from
another viewpoint http://environment.about.com/library/weekly/narcticr.htm ;)
Name: John J. Davison
City, Country: Philadelphia PA 19103
Sent: 1.11 AM - 8/24 2001
Philly and I would love to host you dude.. Hope to see you here. Good Luck
Man....
Name: Mark
City, Country: California, USA
Sent: 12.19 AM - 8/24 2001
I literally just heard about your adventure for the first time two hours ago. I
should be working right now but I can stop reading your reports from the field.
Fascinating! It's truly the adventure of a lifetime.
Name: Marie-Ann Collins
City, Country: Dallas, Texas, USA
Sent: 12.09 AM - 8/24 2001
My father told about you at dinner tonight, he had seen a report about your
project on Headline News.
I had to see it right away, because it sounded so UNBELIEVABLE. I would never
have guessed that something like this would be possible on the world we live
in!
Your project is an inspiration for a lot of people and gives us all faith in
human kind. I think we here in Dallas, will invite you over, but I saw we are
not the only ones. But come visit my high school one time when you are around!
With lots of love,
Marie-Ann.
Name: MJ
City, Country: Denver, Colorado
Sent: 11.26 PM - 8/23 2001
Hi, got here from Wired News. Great concept. Gotta come to Denver-Colorado is
awesome!
Name: Phil Fortier & Kari Busch
City, Country: Detroit, Michigan USA
Sent: 9.05 PM - 8/23 2001
Hello Ramon:
I just submitted an invitation to you to stay with my friend and I....I travel
alot too...in fact I was just in Am'dam, Brussel and Roma...You have a great
idea..I wish I had the courage to do it - I am afraid of all the lunatics out
there..Be safe! There are many good people in thw world - we all just need to
find them...
peace from deeeeetroit aka mooooottter city aka technotown aka mo'town
Phil
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 8.28 PM - 8/23 2001
I was just interviewed LIVE on CNN Headline News a few minutes ago, causing a
storm of visitors to my website. That's why things can become a little slow
around here.
Now going out to the pub with my current host Bjørnar Thomassen. As night is
falling in here, I will be writing my latest Oslo-reports tonight!
Thanks for visiting! Don't forget the mailinglist!
Name: Michael Dennis
City, Country: St. George, Canada
Sent: 5.57 PM - 8/23 2001
Hey man just ran across this website recently! I love it! If you need a place
to crash and some help with some travel in Canada let me know. I would love to
help you out any way that I can
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Sent: 5.09 PM - 8/23 2001
Josh, my provider rejects certain freemails, like hotmail and stuff like that.
Try ramonstoppelenburg@gmx.net if you are using hotmail.
Name: josh zelman
City, Country: atlanta, ga
Sent: 5.00 PM - 8/23 2001
Calling from a news outlet in the united states and would like to talk with you
today. what is your email or how can i contact you? For some reason, I can't
send a message by e-mail to you.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Oslo, Norway at this moment
Sent: 4.51 PM - 8/23 2001
Hi Mette,
The pictures of Aalborg day 2 do work at my location here. Probably it is very
busy at my website right now, just had another explosion of media attention on
Wired.com today, causing a lot of visitors.
All those people coming from Wired.com: WELCOME! Just do you say on this
messageboard.
Ramon.
Name: Mette
City, Country: Denmark
Sent: 4.39 PM - 8/23 2001
Hi Ramon
Sorry for not driving you to Vrå - but my parrents planded to come to my place
instead of me driving to meet them... Sow I had to stay home and wait for them
to come..
But anyway it was nice meeting you..:-)
Bye the way - the last pictures on "Aalborg day 2" will not open, and
I would so much like to see them - Is there anything you can do about it..??
Then I would be very greatfull to you..
Hope you are having a good time in Norway.
Mette
Name: John
City, Country: Lund/ Sweden
Sent: 2.41 PM - 8/23 2001
Hi there Ramon!
I just invited you to stay at mine and my girlfriends place in Lund sweden.
Would be fun i you'd come by, but I'm sorry to say, we do not have internet at
home. But that is perhaps not a problem since there seems to be very few
invitations from sweden, so if theres are no other places else to stay I mght
do ;)
Se you soon!
Name: steve rooney
City, Country: girvan sw scotland
Sent: 12.49 PM - 8/23 2001
great site i will watch with interest
i hoped u liked scotland
did you meet any midges :-)
Name: Steven
City, Country: Brussels, Belgium
Sent: 11.41 AM - 8/23 2001
Hey Ramon, your on Wired.com again, this will be a step up again! Keep it up!
Greetz, Steven.
http://www.wired.com/news/culture/0,1284,46155,00.html
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 10.51 PM - 8/22 2001
Just added more pictures on August 17th report and published all pictures with
the already published August 18th report (Aalborg, Denmark).
Latest reports of my 14 hours boattrip to Norway and my first stays in Oslo
will be published tomorrow.
Regards,
Ramon.
Name: Rafello
City, Country: Florence, Italia!!!
Sent: 10.43 PM - 8/22 2001
Hey Ramon, those ladies here were after that guy Lars in Copenhagen. Now it's
our turn. please let me know if Mette from Aalborg is single again!
Name: Sonja
City, Country: Deutschland/Germany
Sent: 10.41 PM - 8/22 2001
Ramon,
I just love your pictures. I would really miss them if you would love your
camera from your sponsor as stated below in this messageboard. Is there no
other sponsor interested in helping you out!?
Great going you do, guy!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 9.11 PM - 8/22 2001
To answer Anke's question two postings below here:
"I thought you would only stay with people who have internet at
home?"
That's true, but some people invite me at their work and when I come I can't
update the website at their home. I can make a big problem of that or just
enjoy the time and be thankful that they opened their door to me.
Name: Munk
City, Country: Zwolle, Ground Zero
Sent: 4.14 PM - 8/22 2001
Hi Ramon!
Arend and Gerben just walked in to say hi to you! All going on the intro. I'll
mail you when the whole freaking lot ends up in Zwolle again exhausted as
hell...
Munk
Name: anke
City, Country: netherlands
Sent: 1.25 PM - 8/22 2001
I thought you would only stay with people who have internet at home?
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 1.15 PM - 8/22 2001
Hello you all! Here a quick posting from Oslo!
Lise & Mischa, I totally fail in exercising everyday, but I try to keep up.
I don`t think I will get fat, cause walking in big city makes me sweat a lot
and the energy comes from the food in my belly.
I hope to finish the Copenhagen reports soon, but this week I`ve been staying
with people who have no computer/internet or floppy disk drive (mostly IMac),
so you have to bare with me for a while.
Hopefully I can do some major updates on coming Thursday, as my host for that
day will let me work on his computer at his office all afternoon.
With regards and until Thursday!
Ramon.
Name: Lise & Mischa
City, Country: Copenhagen, Denmark
Sent: 12.59 PM - 8/22 2001
Jan van der Wiel,
If we are right Ramon is doing his excercises (we learnt him) after dinner, so
he don't get too fat.
RAMON......WE HOPE YOU STILL DOING THEM !!!!!!!! ;o)
p.s When are you finishing the reports from Copenhagen?
Name: Jan van der Wiel
City, Country: Aalsmeer, Holland
Sent: 7.37 AM - 8/22 2001
Ramon,
Aren't you growing very much (in weight) because of all the special food people
make for you every day?
Nice to follow your story every day!
Good
Luck
Name: Tørmas
City, Country: Bergen, Norway
Sent: 5.03 PM - 8/21 2001
Just heard you on P4 here in Norway! Just invited you to stay at my place. You
sound like a great guy and I am curious to all your stories!
Regardes,
Tørmas.
Name: Hilde
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 4.19 PM - 8/21 2001
Hi! Just want to wish you all the best, this is a cool thing you do!! Hopefully
you'll find places to stay all over the world. You've done alright so far, so I
guess you don't have to worry about that!
Good luck!
Love, Hilde.
Name: Michael Offe
City, Country: South Australia
Sent: 2.18 PM - 8/21 2001
Hi Ramon,
How are you going sorting out the sponsorship problem?
Last night (3.30am to be exact! I wanted to get it through to you ASAP)I sent
an e-mail to you in reply to the one you sent me, in the e-mail I have
mentioned a few ideas for you to get the new sponsorship you require.
If you get back to me as soon as posible with your opinion I will see what I
can do.
Yours sincerely,
Michael Offe,
South Australia.
P.S. DON'T give up! :-)
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Oslo, Norway
Sent: 2.09 PM - 8/21 2001
Thanks Adam (Adam Curry?)
Name: Adam
City, Country: Amsterdam, NL
Sent: 1.42 PM - 8/21 2001
John F. Kennedy: "Our problems are man-made, therefore they may be solved
by man. And man can be as big as he wants. No problem of human destiny is
beyond human beings."
Name: gong yu
City, Country: shanghai,china
Sent: 1.20 PM - 8/21 2001
you are wonderful/someday if you come to china /maybe i can travel all over the
china with you /it is a great counry /donot you think so ?/i am 20/i study in
shanghai university/i major in automatic/i like what you are doing now/have a
good luck
Name: Anonymous
City, Country: Global Village
Sent: 10.55 AM - 8/21 2001
Ramon,
We at the village would like to apologize for our presence in this
messageboard. When you come to some
bush bush, we would like to show you something like those at Nazca. And to Bret
too. Why spoilt the relationship. We are sorry.
Name: Anonymous
City, Country: Global Village
Sent: 9.25 AM - 8/21 2001
Camera never lies. Truth can't be disguise. We'll be missing a picture paints a
thousand words. I need to know about the Pekings, Javas, Mongoloid, etc. Pliz
help him.
Name: Ltordo
City, Country: Rhode Island, USA
Sent: 12.30 AM - 8/21 2001
Hello Ramon and his Fans,
This is just a idea but either Amazon.com or Paypal.com will give you a button
to place on your web site to accept cash donations. This way we could donate by
credit card or checking account instantly.
I sure would miss those beautiful pictures.
Best wishes on your journey,
Ltordo
Name: Mikael Sørensen
City, Country: Fredericia, Denmark
Sent: 10.19 PM - 8/20 2001
Hi Ramon and all who wants to support Ramons project.
Here's and idea, why don’t we all make a little tribute to him so he can buy a
Digital Camera, I really don’t know how we can do it but I have an suggestion….
I can manage the collection and when we have enough raised, we can buy the
camera and send it to him or he can get it if he come back to Denmark.. well
the roads always meet in Fredericia J
If Ramon thinks this idea is ok and he think people can trust us. Just let’s
get started. you can mail us at mikael@sidfa.dk
The camarea will cost about 615$ (but i will try to get a good deal somewhere)
our tribute will be 15$ for a start...
In Ramon we trust….
Mikael & Mette
Fredericia, Denmark
Name: Thea Jessen Kristensen
City, Country: Århus, Denmark
Sent: 1.37 PM - 8/20 2001
Hey !!
I see you have already visit Denmark and my city Århus as well. I've inviteted
you but I was in Copenhagen during the week so that was why it was impossible
to get a hold on me. If you passes through Denmark again later you must try
again.
Now I'm back in Århus because... this is the first day at the journalist school
after the holiday. I started in February so right now we're doing one week of
science of society and politics before we contiuning with a 5-weeks workshop where
I'll make articles about the communication between the local city conseul and
the citizens before I'll do 3 weeks tv ( jubiii!). Well, I'm sorry I wasnot
here at the right time so I cuold have shown you the school cause we got indeed
some nice computer, tv, foto and radio facilities.
Any way : Good luck in Norway
Cheers. From Thea in Århus
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 9.30 AM - 8/20 2001
Sorry about the multiple messages, I was experienceing errors.
P.S. Your welcome Anonymous... I think?
Name: Anonymous
City, Country: Global Village
Sent: 9.27 AM - 8/20 2001
Bret,
Bravo. Knuckle dragging neanderthal? Been missing so much of this phrase. Cheer!
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA, USA
Sent: 9.07 AM - 8/20 2001
Now is the time to brainstorm, and find a way to help Ramon with his project.
There has been a positiveness in this message board, which has renewed my faith
in humans. Is it possible that this positiveness can in some way help Ramon!
Why? You may ask. For me, I'm on a journey I would not otherwise be on if it
were not for Ramon. Yes, I'm living vicariously through Ramon. He has taken me
to countries that I will never visit, and people I will never meet. People who
have opened up their houses to a perfect stranger and treated him as their own.
Ramon, has allowed me to meet these people through his web site. It really
would be a tragedy for all this to end because of a sponsorship gone bad.
Please support Ramon through e-mails to sponsors that might pick up where his
recent one has left him hanging. If anyone has any kind of connection, no
matter how small, it's worth a try. Think positive folk!
Sincerely
Bret
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA, USA
Sent: 9.06 AM - 8/20 2001
Now is the time to brainstorm, and find a way to help Ramon with his project.
There has been a positiveness in this message board, which has renewed my faith
in humans. Is it possible that this positiveness can in some way help Ramon!
Why? You may ask. For me, I'm on a journey I would not otherwise be on if it
were not for Ramon. Yes, I'm living vicariously through Ramon. He has taken me
to countries that I will never visit, and people I will never meet. People who
have opened up their houses to a perfect stranger and treated him as their own.
Ramon, has allowed me to meet these people through his web site. It really
would be a tragedy for all this to end because of a sponsorship gone bad.
Please support Ramon through e-mails to sponsors that might pick up where his
recent one has left him hanging. If anyone has any kind of connection, no
matter how small, it's worth a try. Think positive folk!
Sincerely
Bret
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA, USA
Sent: 9.06 AM - 8/20 2001
Now is the time to brainstorm, and find a way to help Ramon with his project.
There has been a positiveness in this message board, which has renewed my faith
in humans. Is it possible that this positiveness can in some way help Ramon!
Why? You may ask. For me, I'm on a journey I would not otherwise be on if it
were not for Ramon. Yes, I'm living vicariously through Ramon. He has taken me
to countries that I will never visit, and people I will never meet. People who
have opened up their houses to a perfect stranger and treated him as their own.
Ramon, has allowed me to meet these people through his web site. It really
would be a tragedy for all this to end because of a sponsorship gone bad.
Please support Ramon through e-mails to sponsors that might pick up where his
recent one has left him hanging. If anyone has any kind of connection, no
matter how small, it's worth a try. Think positive folk!
Sincerely
Bret
Name: Angklong Dandai
City, Country: Chiengmai, Thailand
Sent: 8.51 AM - 8/20 2001
Ramon,
"That's when things started to change..." Even Bishop Emmanuel
Milingo of Vatican broke a rule. Don't be too hard man, its only a joke and
lets have some funs eh.
Regards,
AD
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Vrå, Denmark
Sent: 5.29 AM - 8/20 2001
Latest update:
- Tonight at 6.30pm a ferry will take me along for a 14 hour float to Oslo, Norway,
where I will arrive Tuesday morning.
- The former sponsor of my mobile phone and my DIGITAL CAMERA has ended his
sponsorship and probably wants back his phone and camera. This means that I
won't be able to CALL my nexts hosts myself and NOBODY will see ANYMORE
PICTURES in my report. Protests are very welcome by email, however I can better
use the help of people who might know a good solution.
Just had to let this go from my mind, write to you soon.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Vrå, Denmark today
Sent: 6.36 PM - 8/19 2001
Hi Brett, thank you for your supporting message below.
You are right about the people who like to publish disgracing messages on this
board and it indeed representative of where they come from.
It tells enough about how they think about other people and how their mind
works (or not).
I delete those messages, just for the people from those places and countries,
who can preserve their pride and become an example to 'those' kind of people
who probably only think very black and white.
So, that's my political statement for today.
Have fun in life, is all I can say to everybody. It's just to short to complain
about things and always be bothered by all the small things in life!
To Kateshih, below, I hope the website is clear enough. You can read all the
reports about my travelling on this website, including pictures.
Name: Michael Offe
City, Country: South Australia
Sent: 4.07 PM - 8/19 2001
Hi Ramon,
How are you enjoying your big adventure?
Just wondering if you received the e-mail I sent you 2 days ago? The subject
was: Re your travels... and an invitation to South Australia, plus more.
Best wishes for you on you trip, and you are most welcome to come to South
Australia and stay with me, lots of unique country-side and sights.
Yours sincerely,
Michael Offe.
Name: kateshih
City, Country: Taipei,Taiwan
Sent: 1.03 PM - 8/19 2001
Hello Ramon!
I'm a 19-year-old girl,living in Taiwan,Taipei.I have read the report about you
from the newspaper.I think you are a such clever man!My best wish is the same
as you--travel all over the world!!
Although you haven't planned to travel to Asia,I really hope you could come one
day!There are so many beautiful and exciting things to explore!!
I don't know where have you been now!you must have a lot of great
memories,right!
By the way,you can tell me about something you've met everyday,I'm really
intersted in it!!
Finally,hope you enjoy your journey!! kate
Name: Bret
City, Country: CA,USA
Sent: 2.17 AM - 8/19 2001
Ramon,
I just love coming to the message board to read all the words people have to
say around the world. I learn so much about people and where their from, just
by what they say. I don't know if people are aware of it, but what one puts on
the message board is somewhat representative of where they come from. So when I
read things like "mooching ass" from Detroit and "kick your
ass" from NY, it only embarrasses those of us in the USA that live here.
It would be nice if these "knuckle dragging neanderthals" could address
any "issue" they have with you in a respectable cognitive manner.
Just wishful thinking out loud.
Name: David Wedege Petersen
City, Country: Aalborg, Denmark
Sent: 1.02 AM - 8/18 2001
Hi! I just saw you on the telly today, and i think you're on a cool job. Just
one thing: the local tv-station was not TV2 Aalborg, but TV Danmark Aalborg.
There's a difference... I hope you'll enjoy visiting my town. Take
care!
Name: Dave
City, Country: New York, USA
Sent: 10.57 PM - 8/17 2001
Ramon,
Your pictures look great what type of camera are you using??
Name: helen johnson
City, Country: kendal,cumbria
Sent: 6.23 PM - 8/17 2001
you seem to have missed the lake district,never mind next time.
Name: Lars Vinther Schmidt
City, Country: Copenhagen, Denmark
Sent: 3.46 PM - 8/17 2001
Hello Ramon,
hope you like my hometown Aalborg! Maybe you're even staying in my old
apartment now? Anyway, don't mind the potato, you can have it! Payback? Send me
nice card from India in the wintertime...
I'm flattered by all the mails you've got! Thank you girls! You're ofcourse
free to contact me, but I have a sweet girlfriend at the moment - and I'm not
much into "the more the merrier"! Sorry ;-)
Thanks again, and stay true on the rest of your trip Ramon.
Regards,
Lars.
Name: Lise & Mischa
City, Country: Copenhagen, Denmark
Sent: 3.14 PM - 8/17 2001
Hi Ramon,
Have a great time in Ålborg, don't stay too long ;o)
We hope you had some nice days in Denmark after your stay with us ( we had fun
teasing you!!)
Take care of your self, and have a great trip... :O)
KNUS Lise and Mischa
P.S.
Don't forget your excercises after dinner ;o)
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Aalborg, Denmark
Sent: 1.19 PM - 8/17 2001
Postings from "Anonymous" from "Global Village" is deleted.
Please be so kind to state your name and your country, it means nothing and
everybody does that.
Respect, Ramon.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Aalborg, Denmark
Sent: 12.57 PM - 8/17 2001
Some people really go deep in explaining my zigzagging way of travelling
around, but for me there is only one reason for doing that: I want to see the
world. Why travel in one straight line? I have all the time this life offers
me.
Regards,
Ramon.
Name: Kepala Anak Otakkau.
City, Country: Ulu Baram, Miri, Malaysia.
Sent: 6.44 AM - 8/17 2001
Sonja of Vienna, Austria.
'Bruno Manser' of Switzerland knows something about being zig zagged. (Bruno
spent several years late last century trying to figure out the impatient
quality of a primitive tribe of Borneo - The Penans.) He personally discovered
and disagreed about being in a zig zagged pattern of movement. I am definitely
sure Ramon would not like that pattern too. There is no war or whatsoever
distraction that can divert one's target - a natural death. I believe that
impatience caused by ignorant itself is the main culprit.
On the concept creativity, Ramon may draw up his route outlining his very name
or surname across the face of Europe.
In doing so, it might looks like another imaginary alignment of The Great Wall
Of China....and so on.
Well, to be more precise, on the average young people at their early age tend
to yearn for all the existing modern 'funs' left by those irresponsibles in the
past.
Anyway, I supposed Ramon has his own distinguished plan
that is writing a book related to his journey. If he accomplish his journey
within that 'short time' otherwise there will be a part two. (No hard feeling)
Dear RAMON, carry on young man, life in this century belongs to innovative,
artistic and creative individuals. May G_d bless you always!
Name: sonja
City, Country: vienna, austria
Sent: 8.44 AM - 8/16 2001
dear ramon,
i just have one question: if you want to go around!! the word why do ya travel
like zigzag. your travel seems neverending ;o)
nevermind...
Name: sunniboy
City, Country: Jinan,China
Sent: 1.54 AM - 8/16 2001
hi,Ramon,
you said in ur photo describe that"The host of High Pressure, the
programme on DR Radio P3, with the same name in Chinese (?) on his shirt."
Yes,u r right! It's in Chinese,our diamonds word.
I'm in Jinan Shandong China,waitting for you.
good luck!
Name: Robert Badu
City, Country: Brønshøj, Denmark
Sent: 11.57 PM - 8/15 2001
Hi Ramon,
You are right, the Little Mermaid is too small to be lntereasted but I think it
was made so with a purpose.
First, the name 'little mermaid' speak for itself: Something little, and
secondly, the whole thing symbolises the land of Denmark. A small but wonderful
country which is much respected across the world.
Have a nice stay and keep up the good move. All the best.
Name: Mette & Mikael
City, Country: Fredericia - Denmark
Sent: 11.44 PM - 8/15 2001
Hi Ramon (and all the readers)
We hope your trip to Aarhus went well, and you easily found the next place, 2
stay. (4aday)
Having you here where a real pleasure, at first we where nervous about having
you here, but after an hour that was history…
It where really fun having you here and we are sad about you leaving so soon,
maybe you have to change the concept to “let-me-stay-for-a-week.com” so you
really can get under peoples skin, well ok, a day Is also ok…
“To the future homes for Ramon”
Haven’t you already invited him, just go for it, he is nice. A real gentleman
:-)
Well we wish you a good trip around the world, and we hope to see you again
sometime, (just drop inn, anytime you like)….
See ya and have a nice trip…
Mette
& Mikael
Fredericia
Name: Mum of Ramon
City, Country: Ouderkerk a/d IJssel
Sent: 9.38 PM - 8/15 2001
To all site-visiters.
I was pleasant surprised by Ramon's action about my Birtday-greetings. I got
many very nice e-mails and cards by you. I thank you very much for that. Your
reactions were heart-warming. Of course I make myself worries about Ramon but
of course I am also very, very proud of him.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Århus, Denmark
Sent: 8.07 PM - 8/15 2001
Lars, Thanks for letting me know about the potatoe just hid in my back... (He
and his roommate Jannik have this thing about hiding potatoes in each others
room, of course to find it some where where you least expect it, so much
later)... How do I do a payback?
By the way Lars, some ladies on this messageboard (and those 22 in my mailbox,
want to know if you are single). Will you reveal the truth yourself?
Name: Lars Vinther Schmidt
City, Country: Denmark
Sent: 2.15 PM - 8/15 2001
Hi Ramon,
i've just returned from northern jutland! I'm sorry that we had to split up in
such a hurry, and I hope you found your next stop easily - my train were 20
minutes too late, so there were no need to hurry after all.
Anyway, lots of good luck & spirit on the rest of your travel - the world
isn't that big afterall!
Thanks for an inspiring visit,
regards Lars.
Ps. Are you still carrying that potato around, that I put in you bag? Hope it
goes to Germany...hehhehe!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Århus, Denmark
Sent: 1.43 PM - 8/15 2001
After my posting about my mother's birthday, I was overwhelmed with
congratulations and e-cards, which I all sent through to my mother.
She was really impressed by it and had never expected this surprise at all.
For everybody who send an email, thank you very much. It means a lot!
Ramon.
Name: An-Nurul Masud
City, Country: Dhaka, Bangladesh
Sent: 12.43 PM - 8/14 2001
Hi Ramon
I am highly impressed with great idea. I am happy that people all over the
world are cooperating. I dream oneday the world will be free for everybody for
effort of people like you and your hosts. I from a poor country do not like to
keep away from this big occassion. I have already invited you. Please make
sometime to travel to Bangladesh.
I wish you a happy and wonderful voyage.
Name: Mykel Board
City, Country: NYC USA
Sent: 11.02 AM - 8/14 2001
Hey! Heard you used THE WORLD FOR FREE in your travels. Glad to see that. I
haven't checked the whole site out yet, but do you have a www.worldforfree.com
link? Would you like to write something for the next book, due out early next
year? Let me know. You can respond through the website.
Thanks,
Mykel
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 12.36 AM - 8/14 2001
Dear Ramon's Mum
Wishing you a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY. I hope you will have a lovely day. I know
that Ramon will be missing you just as much as you are missing him and I expect
you will get hundreds of Birthday messages from Ramon's "extended
family" via his website. Have a great day. Lots of love Sylvia xxx (one of
his Scottish hosts)
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 10.12 PM - 8/13 2001
To Ramon’s Mom,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I hope your day is filled with happiness and God’s Blessings.
Your son is a great guy, and very mature. You must be very proud of him.
I bet you miss him a lot.
I wish you both the best. And I wish Ramon a safe and happy journey.
With
Love,
Nina
Name: Michael
City, Country: Seattle, USA
Sent: 8.34 PM - 8/13 2001
Groeten van the North West corner of Amerika.
Much thanks for the first 100 days and this
is just a note to say, I really appreciate the
words and photos of the places you've been (many
of which I have been to in the past). Your camera eye
is superb! I also appreciate the Internet Community which is supporting you and
offering a day (not me --- yet!) for you to stay. Although it's a strange
community it is really a world wide neighborhood
which has transcended from the early Internet days
which was for geeks and freaks. (I am both!)
Best of luck and hope that your trip will be the
first of many Internet community travels and also I hope to see you in Seattle
(Probably next year August - September) ... it's a bit damp (als Holland)
October to June. Tot Ziens (for me it was 5 years in Amsterdam)
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Odense, Denmark
Sent: 8.20 PM - 8/13 2001
On August 14 my mother celebrates her birthday. She misses me and she knows
I can't be there.
Surprise here if you want to, just like me.
You are welcome to send her an email through
"ramon@letmestayforaday.com" and I will forward these to her, all day
long!
Regards,
Ramon.
Name: Ronald
City, Country: Chang Hua, Taiwan
Sent: 7.03 PM - 8/13 2001
Hey man, you are incredibly great~~~
I am so impressed by your brilliant courage and passion~~~
if some day you come to Taiwan, please do come to my home and be my guest...
let you stay for a day~~~ it's certainly welcome~~~ ^^
Name: wei
City, Country: taipei,taiwan
Sent: 6.39 PM - 8/13 2001
you are so brave ......and you make me believe that DREAMS WILL COME TRUE
....:-)
i'll prey for you !!
Name: Coralie
City, Country: England
Sent: 5.59 PM - 8/13 2001
Hi Ramon
Congratulations ! 100 days wow !Take care of yourself, I do look in from time
to time and am going on a journey with you - as my travel guide, seeing places
I would never have the chance to otherwise , bless you !
kind regards
Coralie
Name: Wendy Jervis
City, Country: Sheffield
Sent: 4.56 PM - 8/13 2001
Hi Ramon,
How the past fifty days have flown by! You were at our place for your fifty day
anniversary and now you are at 100... Congratulations.
By the way... remember our Hamster? She died... :(
Take care and continue to travel safely.
Name: Willem
City, Country: Belgium
Sent: 1.26 PM - 8/13 2001
Ramon, is Judith/Juut your girlfriend at home?
Name: Judith
City, Country: Groningen, the netherlands
Sent: 1.19 PM - 8/13 2001
Hey Ramon!
100 days on the road!!! Congrats!! I wish you all the best and have a great
time in Denmark, which is a very good choice, I guess. I hope you're fine and I
hope you will find time to update your reports, but just enjoy life every
single moment and take your time to rest! Though I AM waiting(!) for all those new
reports.
Life in Groningen is still going nice and easy but some heavy weeks are coming
up including a bit of playing tennis with my
friend-for-ever-Gerrieke-who-likes-to-drink-a-lot. She comes over from Zwolle
to have some nice weeks over here (also the "Keiweek" is a part of
it! (For the ones who don't know: Keiweek is an introduction week in Groningen
for new university students, a lot of bands are playing and the whole city is
overwhelmed by students going out late all week and so on; a great but heavy
week!)
We
zullen er eentje op je drinken!
So far for now!
Take care and lots'a love,
juut
Name: Lars B. Dybdahl
City, Country: Copenhagen, Denmark
Sent: 1.19 PM - 8/13 2001
Now that you are in Denmark, notice the sky. It is very, very seldom that you
have the same types of clouds all over the sky, as you can often see it in
countries like England and other places where the distance to the sea is much
greater. In Denmark, you cannot get further away from the sea than 50
kilometers, so the clouds will always look different around you.
Cheers.
Name: Tilly
City, Country: Zwolle
Sent: 10.57 AM - 8/13 2001
Hey there Ramon,
We are all still following you here. We're very proud you already made a 100 days.
Congratulations!! Send Lars to Zwolle to meet me ;)
Take care!!!!
Name: Brian Cox
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 7.05 AM - 8/13 2001
Hi Ramon
I've been very bad, not checking your progress for about two weeks. Well,
Denmark seems like a great place. Good idea to go there in summer.
Two things I've noticed. One is that you are getting a lot of invitations from
Taiwan and surrounding areas. I suppose you'll gradually shift eastwards,
eventually crossing the international date line, and circumnavigate the globe
before returning home. That last night in the White House seems more realistic
now, hey!
The second thing I've noticed is that your host Lars Vinther Smidt is good
looking. I'd be really happy to look like him. Ah well, I am no where close to
as good looking, so that's perhaps why I'm single. :-(
In any case, looks are but one part of the whole person. There are lots of
characteristics to consider, as I'm sure you are realising through your
travels. This is certainly the best way to learn.
Which makes me think... I seem to remember the topic being discussed briefly
before, but are you ok with not having a significant other with you? Or is the
plan to use this project to meet some stunning woman when you do return
home...? Whatever it is, keep on travelling, and all the best.
Please remember, before you venture too far east, come down south for a while.
South Africa is waiting. And we have a good climate.
See
ya
Brian
Name: Scitanul Emos
City, Country: Athen, Greece
Sent: 6.06 AM - 8/13 2001
Great idea & congratulation on your 100 days!
'Most of us will never do great things, but we can do small things in a great
way.' - My home is your home for a day or two.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Odense, island Funnen, Denmark
Sent: 11.18 PM - 8/12 2001
I'll be heading south of Denmark after a tour around the country...
Name: N.
City, Country: Germany
Sent: 10.12 PM - 8/12 2001
Which country do you want to visit after Denmark?
Take care and have a good time!! See you in Germany!
N.
Name: cherlene
City, Country: taipei.taiwan
Sent: 7.32 PM - 8/12 2001
hihi RAMON
Another person from taiwan....
I'm so happy i saw the article in newspaper,it's
about ur story.
U can see that u got so many new friends from
taiwan.
Come to see us some day.
enjoy ur life ~~~
Name: Henning
City, Country: Roskilde, Denmark
Sent: 4.44 PM - 8/12 2001
Hello Ramon. Heard You in the radio P3 this week. What a great idea You have got!
Enjoy our little country and the mostly friendly people here. From me and my
families travels I have learned that now other education is better in
understanding the fantastic world and its PEOPLE. Take care and good luck. PS
We will love to host You if back in Sjælland??
Name: Merete
City, Country: Charlottenlund, Denmark
Sent: 10.22 AM - 8/12 2001
Hi Ramon
I hope that you are enjoying yout time in Denmark. Maybe it's a good idea to go
to www.virtualtourist.com and tell your story in the World Forum. It's a travel
page with about 155.000 members all over the world and it's very much alive. I
am sure you will receive a lot of invitations. We are going to Greece today, so
unfortunately we can't invite you.
Good
luck!
Merete
Name: Angelica de Bruin
City, Country: Utrecht, Holland
Sent: 3.05 AM - 8/12 2001
I guess that Lars Vinther Smidt is single... but how would that be possible? we
are waiting!
Name: zwartewater fm
City, Country: Hasselt, The Netherlands
Sent: 3.04 AM - 8/12 2001
Nice idéé to travel on this opertunety (how do you write that?) but ok
suc6
and greets ilionair dj at zwartewater fm (local radio stadsion)
Name: Ron
City, Country: Almelo
Sent: 3.00 AM - 8/12 2001
Just heard you at 3.30 in the morning on dutch radio3, you must have been
sleeping. it's a pitty for the deejay, because how can he expect some exiting
adventure stories from you at that time. I enjoy your website and like how you
keep hold on your privacy on the radio. They don't have to know all!
Name: Marcella de Ronde
City, Country: Hilversum, Netherlands
Sent: 1.47 AM - 8/12 2001
Where the heck does he finds the time for it?
Ramon logs in Dutch on
http://groetenuit.blogspot.com
where he communicates with the Dutch at home...
Name: Bret
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.38 AM - 8/12 2001
Hmmmmmmmm...... It's looking like "As the LMSFAD Message board Turns"
Will Lars fall for MV from UK's solicitations? Will MV send Lars a picture to
make the playing field level. Is Lars Single???? My vote is no. Most important
is when will some Computer Company Sponsor Ramon with a LAPTOP!!!!!!!!!!
Anybody out there with connection with Steven Jobs? Let's get going folks.
network, network, network!
As always Ramon, enjoying your adventure. Oh! Smart choice on where to go next,
but then we know how sharp you are. Keep on truckin'
Name: M.V.
City, Country: UK
Sent: 6.58 PM - 8/11 2001
Ramon, is your Copenhagen host Lars Vinther Smidth single?
If so, tell me and I'll come over too and search for him in Copenhagen! HE IS
CUTE!
Name: John
City, Country: Taipei, Taiwan
Sent: 5.31 PM - 8/11 2001
Hi Ramon,
I am John from Taipei, Taiwan.
I also read about your travel form newspaper.
I think your story will be spread all the world.
Keep going!
I wish you could come to Taiwan.
We will be glad~!
Name: May
City, Country: Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Sent: 3.42 PM - 8/11 2001
Hi Ramon,
I am May from Taiwan.
Today I read your travel story from newspaper.
And I just visiting your "Let me stay for a day" website. : )
That's so interesting.
I am also like to travel around in different country.
Your dream is very great, beautiful, and encourage young people to come true
theirs.
Hope you could come to Asia country on someday.
Keep
going!
Name: Mona Lee
City, Country: Kaoshiung,Taiwan,Repulic of China
Sent: 3.03 PM - 8/11 2001
As they said, your story is on our newspaper today.
I always dream about to do what you do.
If you come to Taiwan, please come over here. My parents fight a lots, but dont
mind. that's interesting. that will be lots fun in my house. my friends are
cool and all can carry on English, no problem! Think about it! Good
luck!
Name: varonica_franco
City, Country: Taichung, Taiwan
Sent: 1.52 PM - 8/11 2001
Nice job,man !
Name: Jasi
City, Country: Austria
Sent: 10.10 AM - 8/11 2001
Hi Ramon !
Congratulations! 100 Days - that´s great.
Have a good time.
:) Jasi
Name: Jul;ie Richardson
City, Country: Glasgow
Sent: 10.08 AM - 8/11 2001
Just found out about your trip. Sorry to have missed you in Glasgow. If you're
ever back get in touch.
Name: Sky Lee
City, Country: Taipei,taiwan.
Sent: 9.55 AM - 8/11 2001
Hi,Ramon:
Saw an article about you in paper,just came up here to
wish you good luck!
Hope to see you in Taiwan one day.
Name: Samuel Fernandez
City, Country: Curitiba, Brazil
Sent: 8.58 AM - 8/11 2001
Ramon,
If you have faith as big as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Go
from here to there' and it will go. You could do anything.
Congratulation on your 100 days.
Regards,
SAM
Name: Nomar G.
City, Country: Kalunberg, Denmark
Sent: 8.50 AM - 8/11 2001
Ramon,
"A man is but a product of his thoughts; what he thinks, that he
becomes."...............Gandhi
Name: TIMOTHY
City, Country: TAIPEI
Sent: 7.11 AM - 8/11 2001
HI THERE:
I JUST WONDERING ,THAT MAY I GO WITH YOU.\
IF IT IS OK ,
Name: yi-chen
City, Country: miao-li Taiwan
Sent: 5.46 AM - 8/11 2001
HI:
i saw a article about u~I think what u r doing is amazing and I wish I could
have such brave to do what what i want , just like u .
that's a pity that the aritcle said u don't have plan to visit asia yet.but
taiwan is always waiting for u~~!
Name: Stephanie
City, Country: Taipei Taiwain
Sent: 1.02 AM - 8/11 2001
Hi brave man
Keep up the good working ,if any need ,we are
willing to help.
Name: Eileen and Brian
City, Country: Northern Ireland
Sent: 11.37 PM - 8/10 2001
Hi Ramon
Hope things are going well for you and that you are not sleeping on any park
benches or under any trees.
We are sure you would have needed Johnny's sweatshirt it would be so useful
now!!!!!!!!
We enjoyed your stay, and are still talking about you.
Brian has found a new career - scaring children at parties - with his
tongue.....Your fee is in the post!
Take care and good luck
Brian and Eileen (aka Elena not)
Name: Hélène LECHARPENTIER
City, Country: VOSGES - FRANCE
Sent: 8.27 PM - 8/10 2001
Dear Ramon, your project is wonderful, I send you an invitation, please come
on, I go to take about your project with all my friends over the world. And if
you don't go HAVE A NICE TRIPP - Hélène from france who are waiting for you
Name: Freya
City, Country: Norwich, England
Sent: 7.33 PM - 8/10 2001
Hey there! Just wanted to say well done and I'm looking forward to reading your
next daily report :) Bye.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Sent: 6.32 PM - 8/10 2001
Just added more pictures with the August 6th report. Report will be following
shortly, just can't find the time for it right now...
Name: Kathy
City, Country: Eastern Panhandle, WV
Sent: 4.26 PM - 8/10 2001
Some folks may be interested in some books of an earlier traveler who set out
to travel for a long time with virtually no money back in 1933. His trip
started in the Netherlands, too. Patrick Leigh Fermor walked from Amsterdam to
Constantinople over the course of a year and a half. He's got at least 2 books
that cover his journey - "A Time of Gifts" (sounds sort of familiar
:-) ) and "Between the Woods and the Water." I just happened to hear
a reading from the latter a couple of weeks ago on a BBC program that was on
the radio in the middle of the night when I was trying to go to sleep.
Name: Sharlini
City, Country: K.TRG, M'sia
Sent: 4.25 PM - 8/10 2001
Ummm, happy 100 days and I'm glad you finally made it to Denmark! I was right, it
WAS Denmark (more proof that I'm psychic-hehehe). Well, I think all your future
hosts should always keep in mind the possibility of you staying for more than a
day (and I bet most of them don't mind). *g* Take care, Ramon!
Sharlini
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 10.21 AM - 8/10 2001
Message for Violetta.
I agree that Ramon should go on the TV as people who don't even know about his
project would find his experiences interesting. Having been one of Ramon's
ex-hosts, the favourable comments that everyone has written about him are true,
he is a great guy, very interesting to talk to and also very intelligent. It
was a pleasure having him, but his stay wasn't long enough!
Name: Violetta
City, Country: Burgesse, France
Sent: 2.40 AM - 8/10 2001
Over 100 days already! And even your parents are proud of you. I can't believe
how your ex-hosts write about you, so nice! Really sweet. Now I also want to
meet you in real life and maybe a lot of others, why don't you go on
television? Than we can all enjoy it.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Copenhagen, Denmark
Sent: 10.15 PM - 8/9 2001
The messageboard had been taken away for a while, because it did not work
properly. Hopefully everything is restored again and you can view or write
comments or other thoughts again.
Regards,
Ramon.
Name: Bret
City, Country: USA
Sent: 10.56 PM - 8/8 2001
Ramon,
I also want to congradulate you on your first 100 days, but I also want to
thank your support team for keeping us plugged into your adventure.
So Ramons support team, please take a bow for a job well done. Thany
You!!!
Name: Marc Vallhonesta
City, Country: Spain
Sent: 9.11 PM - 8/8 2001
Well, apart from saying that you had a great idea, I want to let you know that
you appeared in "La Vanguardia", most important newspaper in
Barcelona, and probably second in Spain.
"Stoppelenburg: El primer cibergorrón:
And I can translate it for you:
Title: the first cyber who want others to invite him
Published in La Vanguardia on 08/08/2001, section: Vivir en Verano (Live in
Summer)/ La Red (The Net)
The Dutch guy Ramon Stoppenlenburg can be called a "cyber who wants other
to invite him". This 24-years-old student wants to see the world for free.
Thus, his website is called letmestayforaday.com ("dejame quedar un
dia"). In it, he asks anyone to invite him to stay at his place and so to
help him make his adventure, which started in May, successful. He doesn't only
travel but he publishes in his Internet site a journal where he explains all
the details of his travel with pictures and so he thanks his host. "I have
to tell others your hospitality and your way of cooking" he says.
The Stoppelenburg travel started on the 1st of May in Holland and he has
visited France, United Kingdom and Ireland. But, so far, it is not easy to tell
when is he going to finish his odyssey. En his website he has hundreds of
invitations -eleven of them in Spain- and only the ones posted before the 29 of
April are published. In the list there are such far places from one to other as
Chile, Thailand or Australia, but the traveller but find difficulties to
satisfy so many people who want to host him, because he says "I won't take
buses, trains or planes because I'll be hitchhiking most of the time".
Anyway, a north American guy has been offered to take him in his yacht.
Stoppenlenburg inspired his initiative in another very popular site on the Net
called sendmeadollar.com ("enviame un dolar"), where visitors are
asked to give this small amount. Last, some advice: the traveller has said that
he would not mind a digital camera or a mobile phone"
My apologies for any mistake, any bad translation, etc.
Name: Jim
City, Country: Dublin Ireland
Sent: 7.00 PM - 8/8 2001
PS Well done on the 100 days, man. Keep up the good work in Scandinavia.
Name: Journo Jim
City, Country: Dubin, Ireland
Sent: 6.58 PM - 8/8 2001
Dear Ramon,
I missed you in Copenhagen airport! When where you there? I was stuck there for
four hours on Tuesday afternoon and met one of my neighbours in the departure
lounge - aparrently it's voted the best airport in the world, though I don't
know why...
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Copenhagen, Denmark
Sent: 6.20 PM - 8/8 2001
GaBs in Madrid,
I think http://www.letmehaveyourwifeforaday.com works out better, you even get
to choose! Haha!
Ramon.
Name: GaBs
City, Country: Madrid, Spain
Sent: 4.39 PM - 8/8 2001
Yeahhhhh , men!
I will register http://www.letmehelpyourwife.com
Name: Eline Wagteveld
City, Country: Steenwijk, The Netherlands
Sent: 4.03 PM - 8/8 2001
Great project! Read about you in the HSK (schoolpaper)... Good
luck!!
Name: Louise, Martine, Suus
City, Country: Zwolle, The Netherlands
Sent: 4.02 PM - 8/8 2001
Congratulations for your 100 days, RAMON!
Keep up the spirit and we'll try to visit YOU soon!
From your friends in Zwolle, hometown, Holland!
Take care out there! (Don't eat too many Danish cakes!)
Name: Steve
City, Country: Vienna, Austria
Sent: 3.03 PM - 8/8 2001
Vienna waits 4 U!
Name: Backup Team
City, Country: Netherlands
Sent: 1.43 PM - 8/8 2001
We like to thank everyone who invited, helped and supported Ramon for the first
100 day's and make his travel a succes so far. Latest news: Ramon has left the
U.K. and is flying to the North. Update very soon..
Name: mum & dad
City, Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 11.28 AM - 8/8 2001
Dear Ramon
Congratulations with your first 100 days.
We thank all the hosts for the hospitality and taking care of our son
Name: Anonymous
City, Country: Global Village
Sent: 11.09 AM - 8/8 2001
Dear Ramon,
I would let you stay at my place forever.
Name: elaine
City, Country: Stonehaven/Scotland
Sent: 9.50 AM - 8/8 2001
I can't believe it! It seems I have missed Ramon on Radio 2 with Steve Wright,
according to a couple of messages on the messageboard!!!!!! We had ramon
staying here with us, as a result of hearing about him on Steve Wright!!!! I
even e-mailed Steve and Miles Mendoza who does the website of the day on his
show!!!!! and now I've missed Ramon finally getting on the programme! Please
Ramon, if possible put a recording on the site, as Sylvia suggested.
I would also like to acknowledge we enjoyed meeting Ramon, and wouldn't
hesitate to have him back again.
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 7.58 PM - 8/7 2001
Where are you Ramon? Don't keep us in suspense! I missed you on Steve Wright
because I was at work all day. Will you be putting a recording on your website
for people who were at work all day please?
Name: Paul G
City, Country: Lampeter, Wales
Sent: 5.05 PM - 8/7 2001
Hi Ramon - just heard you on BBC radio 2, made me check this site out and as
you have requested, opened my doors for you. Lampeter's a beautiful place, and
I'll definitely need the warning as busy guy, but always make time for someone
who needs a plce to stay! Safe journeys and travel well!
Paul.
Name: Julia
City, Country: Stockport, England
Sent: 5.00 PM - 8/7 2001
Hi Ramon,
Just submitted my place as somewhere for you to stay. Hope we get to see you
soon and hear about your fab journey and get to know you and you get to know
us. I make a wicked Roas Beef dinner y'know :)
Happy Travelling!
Name: Carol
City, Country: Co. Down, N. Ireland
Sent: 2.55 PM - 8/7 2001
Sylvia & Peter, Scotland.
I hope you didn't misunderstand me. I think what Ramon is doing is amazing
& I only wish I could do something similar. My criticism was of the
reporter in our local newspaper who described Ramon as a confidence trickster.
I have absolutely no criticism of Ramon whatsoever. Like yourselves, my family
enjoyed his visit immensely and I have written a letter to that effect to my
local newspaper describing their reporter as a narrow minded conservative
person who's attitude does nothing to promote N. Ireland as a beautiful, and
believe it or not, welcoming society. I suggest that you and others e-mail the
newspaper (The Mourne Observer) at mobserver@btinternet.com and share with them
your own positive experiences of having Ramon to stay.
Cheers,
Carol
Name: Alain
City, Country: Paris, France
Sent: 11.01 AM - 8/7 2001
I saw an article on your web-site in the plane I took to go to Marocco.
I find it a very great idea.
I also travelled for 3 months in South-east Asia. It was a very great
experience for me and I still have nostalgia of it.
Name: Sylvia and Peter
City, Country: North Berwick, Scotland
Sent: 11.34 PM - 8/6 2001
Hello all,
We too welcomed Ramon for a day up here in Scotland, in July, and as most other
hosts have said, we really enjoyed his company and found him to be a charming,
very open, honest, friendly guy who we wished could have stayed for a week
instead of just a day. We found it was very easy to soon become very fond of
Ramon and also to become protective of him. I can't believe that anyone who was
fortunate enough to have him to stay could say anything negative about him and
he would be VERY welcome back here at any time.
His parents are probably a bit worried about him travelling around and staying
with people who he knows nothing about,and although they don't know him either,
through the website they will have been able to learn so much about Ramon and
see by the photos of himself that he is a lovely smiley guy and his parents
should be immensely proud of him.
Good Luck Ramon, we will always remember you with great fondness.
Name: Ian Hannaway
City, Country: stockton-on-tees, england
Sent: 10.27 PM - 8/6 2001
Hi all, Ramon stayed with me for 3 days last week and it was a time I will
remember always. The experience was worth it's weight in gold and also gives
REAL people a chance to show that hospitality and the better side of human
nature still exists in this modern world. Ramon is a great guy, and grab the
chance to have him stay, it restores your faith in human kind. The negative
comments I see here say so much about the people writing them and little about
Ramon, they need to get some help rekindle their faith in human nature.
Name: Dan and Karen
City, Country: Ealing, London, UK
Sent: 9.07 PM - 8/6 2001
We just waved off Ramon to the airport today - he's been here for three days. He
is neither lazy nor a confidence trickster as described in the post below. I
think a better description would be to call Ramon a free spirit - you would
have to be to do this project.
Ramon was a good guest and was fun to have around. He has interersting
opininons and principles and is very switched on. His character will allow him
to learn a lot from his travels. You are welcome back any time Ramon.
Name: Carol
City, Country: Co Down, Ireland
Sent: 3.35 PM - 8/6 2001
Hi Ramon and anyone else reading this, I told you you made the front page of
our local newspaper after you stayed with us, well last week, the newspaper's
cross channel correspondent, Peter Burns wrote a letter saying how you were
nothing but a 'lazy devil' and 'confidence trickster'. He also said that your
hosts were 'mugs', taken for a ride. I was highly offended to be described as a
mug as I consider myself to be a discerning person and wrote a stinker of a
letter to the newspaper in reply. It's due for publication this wednesday so
it'll be interesting to see if it'll be included. Anyway, I suggest that any
other of you past hosts out there also contact this newspaper by e-mail, their
address is mobserver@btinternet.com and voice your opinions.
The editor invited a response to the letter so he'd be more than surprised if
that response came from abroad as this is strictly a local newspaper.
Good luck Ramon. It embarasses me as an Irish woman that your stay in Ealing
was tinged by the negative experience of a RIRA bomb. These people are mindless
thugs and in no way represent the feelings of the average Irish person.
Good Luck,
Carol.
Name: Chiara
City, Country: Italy
Sent: 3.44 PM - 8/3 2001
Hi!
My four cats are waiting for you!
It's very beautiful to think that you'll hold a piece of everybody you meet and
every place you see in your mind and bring it all over the world.
I guess you got a real "free" spirit and soul to do all this!
It should be a great example for everybody.
I wish you good luck and a lot of fun.
Name: elkali@web.de
City, Country: cologne
Sent: 11.24 AM - 8/3 2001
hi roman, realy good idea you have, my english is not the best but let me ask
you one question:
have you ever heared from possibility to change flats for 1/2/3 weeks. one person
from ireland comes to cologne and Igo to him??it will be to complete my
english,enjoy the feeling far from shools etc.
If you find time to answer it will be nice.
many many greatings from sylvia/elsa at cologne
Name: Noemí
City, Country: Argentina
Sent: 2.48 AM - 8/3 2001
Wow Ramón!!!!! congratulations....You have done a lot since the last time I saw
your trip....That's good!!
Good
Luck!
Name: Genevieve Hautcoeur
City, Country: Ottawa, Canada
Sent: 1.15 PM - 8/2 2001
I have been following you from the beginning and I am so happy for you! :-)
Congratulation for your 3 month; hope to see you soon in North America! (maybe
at the Jay Leno's Tonight show...)
All the best for you, take care
Name: Heiner Stegmann
City, Country: Bad Essen, Germany
Sent: 8.29 AM - 8/2 2001
Good luck and lots of fun for u and your trip. We´re waiting for u in germany
to bring u to the next stop over.
ttyl
Name: C. L. Chin
City, Country: Beijing, CHINA.
Sent: 7.40 AM - 8/2 2001
One of our ultimate concerns is for journalism that is free yet fair, probing
yet credible and authoritative in content yet open to many voices.
So far so good.
All the best to you Ramon.
Name: Miek
City, Country: Zwolle
Sent: 3.23 PM - 8/1 2001
Hi Ramon,
3 months already! By the way Zwolle did not change at all! Today there was an
other 'Blauwvingerdag'....
RAMON:
Always nice to hear from a friend that nothing happens in my hometown
Zwolle.
To all others: Blauwvingerdag is our anual Groundhog Day, it will always be the
same thing every year. When you ever get to Zwolle, take this
tourist tour...
Name: Andreas Korner
City, Country: Dusseldorf, Germany
Sent: 11.18 AM - 8/1 2001
Congrats with your first 3 months!
Name: Marlies Keessens
City, Country: Rotterdam echwel, Nederland
Sent: 5.07 AM - 8/1 2001
Hey Ramon, after over two weeks of silence you were back on Dutch radio again!
(eventhough it's on 5.50 in the morning) I hope DJ Giel Beelen will keep you
throughout the summer, because I really enjoy your project and don't want to
miss your real life talks anymore. Radio 3FM Rules!
RAMON:
Thanks Marlies, for your compliments. It's great to be back on air...
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 5.00 AM - 8/1 2001
Ramon,
Its exactly 12.00 noon here. Congratulation and thanks
for the 3 months' report.
Do take care.
Name: Udno Likajam
City, Country: Manila, Philippines
Sent: 4.36 AM - 8/1 2001
Hi Ramon,
I have been following your shadow since 3 months ago and it is getting better
and better. Congratulation!
UL
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Amersham, UK
Sent: 12.57 AM - 8/1 2001
Read www.wackybrit.com's weblog (date: July 31st) about how he spent last
Sunday with me as he gave me a lift from Lincoln to Nottingham... picture
rated as to be seen with parental guidance...
Name: Nick Snelson
City, Country: Bedford
Sent: 10.39 PM - 7/31 2001
Hi Ramon, Hope you made it to your next destination safely and enjoyed your
small stay with me. My mum and Dad are sorry they missed you but hope you have
fun on the rest of your journey. T2UL. Nick
Name: Dranoel Nephets
City, Country: Agra, India
Sent: 5.03 AM - 7/31 2001
Keri, I kinda curious how you're going to make up to living in that seems to be
a huge invisible oven. In some part of the world, its getting hotter and
hotter. No thanks to a few ignorants and greeds.
Ramon, I agreed that withdrawal symptoms are prematurely taking effect - only
for time being, but I'll stay as it's part of the project atmosphere.
Keep going young man!
RAMON:
Thanks Dranoel (nice name), for putting the withdrawal symptons in the right
statement. Imagine how my reporting might become if I'd be in some tropical
bush-bush...
Name: Keri
City, Country: Phoenix, AZ, USA
Sent: 12.10 AM - 7/31 2001
Nope! I'm NOT kidding!!! Phoenix, AZ is VERY hot during the summer. One summer the
temperature hit 122 F! But, while we DO have hot summers, which last about 3-4
months, the rest of the year is BEAUTIFUL!!! :) Kinda makes up for having to
live in what seems like a giant oven for a few months!
Name: Brian
City, Country: South Queensferry UK
Sent: 8.42 PM - 7/30 2001
Hello Ramon
Hurry up and get on with your reports! We are getting withdrawal symptoms
because we have not had much in the way of reports to read for a few days! Have
you not had anything very interesting to do since leaving Bonnie Scotland! Come
back soon!
RAMON:
Brian, don't push me. Not everybody has Internet and not always do I have
the time to update. God only gave us 24 hours in a day....
Name: Brian Cox
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 4.37 PM - 7/30 2001
Hi all
Keri, those temperatures are in Celcius. 20 degrees C = 68 Degrees F, and 30C =
86F. For the rest, 115F = 46C! Keri, you must be kidding! It can't be that hot!
I s'pose, you are in a desert... Durban gets to upper 30's in summer, with
humidity that makes it feel like 45 to 50 C, so I know how you feel. We get it
in Feb/Mar for about 3 weeks. (Ramon, try to get here before then...)
Ramon, I really hope you teeth sort themselves out soon. How do you eat when
you have painful teeth? For days after a filling my teeth hurt like hell. I
have pity on you, but I know you'll make it, because you are strong!
Keep on going, Ramon.
Brian
Name: Keri
City, Country: Phoenix, AZ, USA
Sent: 4.13 PM - 7/30 2001
I'm not sure what those temperatures you all have been saying are in
Fahrenheit, but here in Phoenix the temperature lately has been right around
115 Fahrenheit. Now that is HOT!!! :)
Name: juut
City, Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 11.25 AM - 7/30 2001
Hey, Ramon!
First of all I wish you good luck with your dentist-stuff and so on. Take care
and get well soon! I am curiously waiting for all those reports.
And I've got a question: do you have any idea about how many km you have been
travelling so far?
ale the best,
regards,
juut
RAMON:
How many kilometers? Well, I don't know that. Maybe Ludo's map helps out.
Just look at it here
Name: Sieto van der Heide
City, Country: Leeuwarden, Netherlands
Sent: 10.35 AM - 7/30 2001
Well Ramon, the weather here in Holland has been good for the last few days!
(24/26 degrees C)
Personally, I have been inside most of yesterday afternoon, because of the
Grand Prix of Hockenheim, but after that it was the perfect weather for a
bike-ride :)
By the way; a little question: has the '/' problem been solved already? (did my
e-mail help?)
Name: Angklong Dandai
City, Country: Chiengmai, Thailand
Sent: 4.38 AM - 7/30 2001
Ramon,
Kindly furnish us reasons why we should trust an internet journalist. Then and
only the genuine viewers would follow you everywhere. Right now I better be
gone as the heatwave has reached to this corner of the world.
What is internet journalist? Happy journey.
A.D.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Nottingham, UK
Sent: 8.58 PM - 7/29 2001
It's holiday season out there! Where is everybody? It must be as hot as here
everywhere! Sweating my head off right now...
Anyway, those who really want to read reports and look at the pictures of the
last days really have to wait a while, because the last few days I couldn't use
an (or a steady) internet connection.
So with a few days behind in reporting, I hope one of my next hosts have some
spare time to have me hooked on the web for a while...
Name: Per & Tonje Johnsen
City, Country: Inverness, Scotland
Sent: 2.36 PM - 7/29 2001
Ramon has left the building.
We had Ramon staying with us for 2 days. Ramon requires 200 gram bread, 4dl
milk, 350 gram chicken with assorted vegetables and rice/potatoes for optimum
performance. At least 8 hours rest is recommended. Ramon is easy to clean and
realtively self-entertaining.
We recommend people to try out Ramon for a day or so yourselves, as there is no
money-back guarantee. The satisfaction guarantee is still valid, though.
Regards,
Per & Tonje
Name: Samuel Fernandez
City, Country: Curitiba, Brazil
Sent: 10.36 AM - 7/29 2001
Dear Ramon,
Whats a life you are having! Do come to Curitiba - the most ecological city of
2.4 million people.
Be healthy always and see you someday.
Sam
Name: Preston
City, Country: Granbury, TX, USA
Sent: 11.54 PM - 7/28 2001
Been following you from the beginning of your excelent adventure. A first cyber
traveler indeed, Ramon!!! And cutting a swarthe through the middle of life as it
is lived on this planet. Marco Polo, hehehe.....for our times. Be glad you are
not in Texas right now, it is hot hot hot. Norway sounds wonderful, if indeed
that is your next destination. I will be following!
Hope to see you some day, Buddy!!!!
Preston
Name: birgit
City, Country: canarian islands
Sent: 11.07 PM - 7/28 2001
i supose, you are going to see swesen or norway?? its a good time to go there
(in summer). maybe in winter you visit the canarian islands?
good luck
birgit
Name: Tom
City, Country: New Zealand
Sent: 5.46 AM - 7/28 2001
just got the update.
I would say NZ maybe ore I hope
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 3.33 AM - 7/28 2001
In bed nursing a sore tooth? You can run but you can't hide. That's one of the
many problems if you are not 'gentle' to yourself.
Take care.
RAMON:
LSOM, it was all because of a crushed filling. Which is replaced now. Shit
happens, even if I am gentle...
Name: Ian & Tony
City, Country: Stockton-On-Tees, UK
Sent: 5.26 PM - 7/27 2001
Hello to the Lawson Family From Cleadon Village! Ramon is staying with us at
the moment (in bed nursing a very sore tooth), and we just wanted to say a big
thank you for the gift you sent to us :) We are very tempted to drink it as we
both like a tipple, but I guess we must keep it and look at it once in a while
when we feel the need for a "wee dram". Anyway, thank you again and
we wish you and your family every happiness,
Ian & Tony
Name: Journo Jim
City, Country: Irkutsk, Siberia
Sent: 4.52 PM - 7/27 2001
Hi Ramon,
I'm really glad to hear that you got to see so much of Northern Ireland, and at
an interesting time, if a little tense. To everyone, it really is as Ramon says
an otherworldly place, and the more people from elsewhere who go to see it, I
think the more the local people will stop focusing on their own little
differences and realise that there is a big world out there.
Ramon, I hope you're enjoying my traveller's tales as much as I am enjoying
yours.
See you soon somewhere, I hope.
All the best,
journo Jim
RAMON:
Jim Clarke was my host in Dublin. Currently he is travelling from Moskou to
China, by train...
Name: Miriam
City, Country: San Jose, CA, USA
Sent: 8.26 PM - 7/26 2001
Hi Ramon,
I was wondering when your report about your day in Antwerpen will finally be
published!
RAMON:
Yeah, me too! And I miss a day in London-report too...
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.18 AM - 7/26 2001
Hey Ramon
20 December is far away. hopefully, if you can't get here in October, you can
be here then. That would be cool. And your toothache will be a thing of the
past as well. Durbs is waiting...
Hey, another thing, one of SA's official languages (believe it or not, we have
ELEVEN!) is Afrikaans. This is quite similar to Dutch, so you will feel even
more at home here...
See
ya!
Brian
Name: Anonymous
Sent: 6.08 AM - 7/26 2001
Ramon,
Buckingham Palace has about 600 rooms!
RAMON:
They should start a Bed & Breakfast! Think about all the people who'd
like to stay in there!
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 5.39 AM - 7/26 2001
Ramon,
Do practise more patience. Forget White House for the time being - why not
Buckingham Palace (official town residence of the British monarch since 1837,
located near Saint James' Park, London.)
Be gentle with your tooth problem.
RAMON:
No, don't forget the White House and I do have patience. Please know it is
JUST ONE of the fun things in this project. Buckingham Palace, knock-knock.
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 4.20 AM - 7/26 2001
Come on Ramon, let’s be nice now, there are all sorts of written explanations
on your website. If people seem to ask you, what may seem to be a silly
question to you,please don’t be so sarcastic in your reply to them.
Some people have limited access to Internet, so they may rush thru reading
material a bit quickly, and then later ask you a question you have probably
explained a million times. Plus some people around the world do not understand
English that well to be able to understand all of what is said on your website
(I’m referring to the people who ask, why their invitation isn’t posted on your
where to go list)
Be a little more nicer in your replies, and have patience, lot’s of patience. I
have a son your age, and that’s what I would advise him, if it were he.
Keep on having fun, hope your tooth problem goes away fast.
RAMON:
I am patient and I know a lot of different people visit my website. But
understand also that everybody has a bad day once in a while. The only
difference is, when I have a bad day and I express myself online, I will be
crusified immediately for everything I write.
And that's something I will never understand...
Name: Keri
City, Country: Arizona, USA
Sent: 12.40 AM - 7/26 2001
Awwwwwww...poor thing!!! :( Sorry bout your toothache!!! ALMOST as sorry about
that Dentist's visit! hehe ;)
RAMON:
Another example of the fact that some people get happier when other people have
some problems...?
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Stockton-On-Tees, England (UK)
Sent: 11.58 PM - 7/25 2001
Because of my toothache thing (and the attached splitting headache) my
latest reports are prosponed. I'll update them all on Thursday 27, I'll notify
about it through my mailinglist.
And by the way, I've been to the dentisssssssst. It was great. :-(
Name: coralie
City, Country: England
Sent: 8.47 PM - 7/25 2001
hi Ramon
just wishing you a great journey
coralie
RAMON:
Thank you, Coralie.
Name: Sharlini
Sent: 6.22 PM - 7/25 2001
Whoops...I meant to say bullets being fired into the sky! Hehehe. But one
thing's for sure, when you get to Asia, there will be plenty of food for you to
taste! Do you like spicy food?
Name: Sharlini
City, Country: K.T., Malaysia
Sent: 6.20 PM - 7/25 2001
Thanks for the birthday wishes, Ramon. How's the tooth? As for your
birthday...is it after or before Christmas? I saw on TV that in the
Philippines, they celebrate Christmas on a huge scale, fireworks, guns being
fired into the sky...maybe you could find your way there in Dec. Since it might
take awhile for you to get to this end of the world, I'd say Dec. 2002! =)
Name: nejib belkadhi
City, Country: tunis tunisia
Sent: 5.01 PM - 7/25 2001
i sent you an invitation and i still can't see my location on the places to go
page!
please send me an answer.
good luck.
nejib
RAMON:
I will have to repeat this everytime... The location list says it has only
been updated until April 29, two days before I departed. New invitations will
go into my database only and won't appear online for now. I don't understand
myself, how large can I make the font that says this on the location-page?
Name: bartender "juut"
City, Country: the Netherlands
Sent: 2.45 PM - 7/25 2001
Hey, Ramon!
Is there a way to order a couple of those hot "LMSFAD"-woman t-shirts
without having a creditcard? It would be nice to be wearing that while
working... Would be BIG advertisement for you, as you know what I mean...
Take care and cheers!
Juut
Name: Alan MacDonald
City, Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 10.07 AM - 7/25 2001
Hi Ramon,
If you say that your teeth started hurting last Friday, I'll scream, 'cos thats
when mine started to go as well.
Hmmmm - Sympathy Toothache! Urg.
[offtopic] Hey! Everybody! Watch out for SirCam worm. It bites! Don't open
attachments!
rgds
Alan
Name: Sharlini
City, Country: Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
Sent: 7.41 AM - 7/25 2001
Hi Ramon!
I dreamt about losing my teeth last night...must have been about you. *g* Hey,
it's my birthday! =) When is your birthday and how did/will you spend your
birthday? Maybe your future hosts could take note...
Sharlini
RAMON:
Happy Birthday! How I will spend mine? It's far away in December, I don't
know yet. Any suggestions?
Name: Brian
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Sent: 6.37 AM - 7/25 2001
Hi Ramon
You know, there is a reason they're called dentissssstssssss. ;-)
Maybe a kind host will take you to a dentist and host you for a couple of days,
until you can eat properly again. People, that is a hint!
Keep well, and watch out, the mafia are right there...
Regards
Brian
Name: Tricia
City, Country: England
Sent: 4.34 AM - 7/25 2001
i wish you well and a safe journey through your project
Name: Sam
City, Country: Denver, Colorado, USA
Sent: 4.31 AM - 7/25 2001
Dear Ramon,
I really enjoy reading your daily reports, but will you or your webmaster
please consider the following suggestion: make the link name change color when
I have clicked on each day's report. That way I can easily tell which reports
have already been read, and which are still waiting to be enjoyed.
Thanks and happy travels.
Sam
RAMON:
I have a lot of wishes about my website myself. The person who made the
whole Php/MySQL-database working, Tom, does not have enough time to work on it.
I thought about that, but what about forward+back-buttons on my reports. Any
Php/MySQL-wizard is welcome to contact me and help him out...
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Cleadon Village, Scotland (UK)
Sent: 3.50 AM - 7/25 2001
Yeeha!
I have a problem. Well, it's not a fine one. Nothing interesting happened,
nature is just playing with my teeth. It basically means I need to find a
dentist within a few days, to prevent worse...
I-ust-urts-a-it...
Name: Zym
City, Country: Singapore
Sent: 3.20 AM - 7/25 2001
To Brian from South Africa-
wow!I read your message & found out that you're really getting things
going.That's great!But don't forget to put all that down on film or something
so that I can watch it here in Singapore.All the best.
-Zym
Name: Brian
City, Country: South Queensferry
Sent: 11.25 PM - 7/24 2001
Hey Ramon
Not seen anything of your report for a few days. Hope everything OK and that
Fort William mafia didn't catch you! When can we expect your new report and
pictures please? Can't wait!
Name: trevie
City, Country: uk
Sent: 10.21 PM - 7/24 2001
Hello Ramon. Do you think you would ever goto the South pole or even to the international
Space station for the night??? Now that would be a challenge.
I am not sure that you will get into BigBrother house for a day as they are
evicting people not inviting.
maybe next year. but it will be longer than a day..probably 64 odd days.
cheers...
RAMON:
Letmestayforaday.com in a space station? I think that my plan to stayforaday
in THE WHITE HOUSE in Washington DC, USA, has more chances. Just wait untill I
get to the USA, I have some nice plans for over there.
Name: Bret
City, Country: USA
Sent: 8.48 PM - 7/24 2001
Ramon,
If you haven't already called the "mafia", DON'T! Don't make it easy
for them. I like the idea of them actually finding you. Just leave them little
hints on the message board so we can all laugh at their inability to find you.
OH! the Drama! hahaha Sounds like your having fun of this nonsense, as we are
also. Good luck "mafia". Keep us up to date Ramon on what happens.
To the "Mafia", tic tic tic tic tic tic tic
RAMON:
Okay, contact has been made. But only through my mailbox. This mafia is
really old fashion, asks me if I can come over to their hideaway. Haha. Nope
sorry, have some hosts to visit first. Why don't you just pick me up?
Name: Munk
City, Country: Jicin (Czech Republic)
Sent: 11.42 AM - 7/24 2001
Hi Ramon,
This shabby little town's got internetcafe. Coming our way anztime soon?
Weather's perfect to fly. By the way: Dennis wrecked his car near here last
week. It was Munkfixed and they're on their way east again... Both OK, sister
pissed because one of the accident drivers drove on. We gave chase with the
police and made him pay... :-)
Regards, Munk
RAMON:
Hey Munkman (one of my best friends in Holland, currently flying around in
Czech). Dennis is the boyfriend of his little sister Anne-Marie, and she is my
flatmate in my hometown. All bits and pieces together: I think they are having
adventures also. About me coming to Czech? Mmm, I might. You'll never now
untill you get this secret phone call...
Name: Brian
City, Country: South Africa
Sent: 6.23 AM - 7/24 2001
An after-thought.
The charity could be chosen by one of the people who guessed correctly. Which
one? And you could have a separate page on the website just for voting...
all the best
Brian
Name: Brian
City, Country: South Africa
Sent: 6.20 AM - 7/24 2001
Hi Ramon
A poll to see where you are going? Mmmmmm... I guess youare going back to
England, and then to France, or possibly Belgium. I vote that you come to SA.
Ok, I s'pose we can wait until later in the year.
Hey, you could use that idea. How about a company sponsoring the guesses, and
paying a certain amount of money to a charity for each correct guess. More
money if the person guesses the town, less if they just get the country right.
The charity would be in the country where you are going, and could be chosen by
a prominent radio station. But then, which of the many prominent radio stations
would get to choose...?
Or, South Africa has plenty charities that desparately need cash, especially if
it is Pounds or Euros, or UD$. I can give their names.
Keep strong, Ramon, and careful for the kidnappers!
Looking forward to seeing you here in sunny South Africa (ok, it's cloudy
today, but normally it's sunny!)
Brian
RAMON:
Your idea is good, but unfortunately not every company understands the word
SPONSORING.
Name: Newsflash
City, Country: An even more secret hideaway in the UK
Sent: 12.50 AM - 7/24 2001
Oops, seems that we had some troubles in kidnapping Ramon. He just passed
through our fingers at junction 14 on the M74 towards Carlisle today. Ramon,
please give us a call. WE REALLY NEED TO KIDNAP YOU!
RAMON:
Mmm. Okay guys, guess you are still in kidnapping school as you have a lot
more to learn...
Well, if you are really after me, find me near Elvanfoot, UK.
Name: Newsflash
City, Country: A secret hideaway in the UK
Sent: 10.29 PM - 7/23 2001
This is the Fort William Mafia: Ramon has been kidnapped under orders of Bam
Bam (The Godfather from KissFM, London). He will be relocated to the big
brother house in due course, as planned. Watch this space - we are going
global!
RAMON:
Hey mafia-guys, I hoped you'd be more professional, because I am currently
safe and peaceful somewhere in the middle of nowhere in Daer, near Elvanfoot
(UK). Haha. Probably having troubles finding me, don't you!
I doubt if you find me before the BB-show ends this Friday... But good luck
anyway!
Name: hinano
City, Country: osaka.Japan
Sent: 8.57 PM - 7/23 2001
how about come to join us? 2002 world cup is holding in japan.if u want to,we
are very happy.
RAMON:
I can't promise anything, but I'll sure be happy if I get to the East first.
:-)
Name: Keri
City, Country: Phoenix, AZ, USA
Sent: 7.34 PM - 7/23 2001
Well...I'm not too sure about the "Ladies Only" parking. I'm a lady, but
I certainly don't expect my own parking space!!! :) However, I know that at a
big shopping mall here in Phoenix, there are parking spaces reserved for
"Expectant Mothers" Very interesting. I mean, I can understand that
one, but to have one JUST for ladies??? I think this Political Correctness has
gone a BIT far!!! :)
Name: Co Co
City, Country: :+:taiwan..taipei:+:
Sent: 5.02 PM - 7/23 2001
hi RAMON
i 4got what the magazine writes about u.....sorry~>"<
i saw the "locations"...when will you come to taiwan?
i really really wanna help you^^....
dont worry abput your taiwanese~my English is poor too~!
but i will try my best to help you...^ ^
RAMON:
About me getting to another location, please read my FAQ-page.
Name: juut
City, Country: the netherlands
Sent: 11.58 AM - 7/23 2001
Hey, about that "Ladies-only-thing", Ramon,
I totally agree; I don't believe this is a serious thing, nowadays.
Unbelievable. It might be like Bret says, just a try-out, or a way of trying to
get some inside info about travel accidents. Can't think of anything else.
Or...perhaps it's just that women in Scotland, like in the Netherlands are
usually driving smaller cars, so those parking floor might have smaller places.
In that case they could have created some "small-cars-only" board.
It's just that I cannot be serious about this as it really is unbelieveable!!
Who's going to explain??
Ramon, good luck!!
Name: Bret
City, Country: USA
Sent: 4.57 AM - 7/23 2001
Ramon,
I don't know what to make of the "ladys only parking" except to think
that it might be some kind of a courtesy thing for women. On a more facetious
tone. It could be a research project to see who has the higher rate of
accidents in a parking lot, male or female. I personaly think it's to inspire
women to get in their cars and come shopping. "Your parking spot is close
by!" Like you Ramon, I'd like to know the reasoning for this. You have to
admit it is kind of funny. Does anybody from Scotland know why this is? Ladies
this is all in fun, so please no flaming. Keep on truckin Ramon!
Name: Peter
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 12.58 AM - 7/23 2001
Where are you heading next Ramon? Or do we have to wait and see? Hope you find
a way out of Fort William!
RAMON:
I can't say where I am going, cause it may change any day again. But I'll
try to put up a poll pretty soon, where everybody can guess or vote for my next
country...
Name: Brian
City, Country: South Queensferry, UK
Sent: 5.27 PM - 7/22 2001
Hey Ramon
Hope you are having some great hospitality at the Crofters. Heard any bagpipes
yet? Had any haggis while you have been in Bonnie Scotland?
Name: Co Co
City, Country: Taiwan
Sent: 5.22 PM - 7/22 2001
hi RAMON~*
how are you? my name is CoCo, i come from TaiWan,and i saw this site in
taiwan`s magazine... sorry for my bad English... will you come to taiwan? i
wanna help you...thought my Eng is poor~~lol anywayz....good luck 2 you~!!!
RAMON:
I wish I could understand what the magazine all writes about me, my
Taiwanese is very poor...
Name: Alan
City, Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 1.44 PM - 7/22 2001
Hi Ramon,
That Big Brother thing sounds like great craic -> it would certainly be
pretty good publicity. As you say, though, they'd have to get shifting to get
you on in time before it ends.
Did you manage to get any invitations from Iceland after?
RAMON:
Iceland: zero points...
Name: Brian
City, Country: South Queensferry UK
Sent: 12.13 PM - 7/22 2001
Hello Ramon
I have been told about your website by a friend who is following your travels
by 'net and he tells me that you have have an invite into the Big Brother
House. Is this right and if so when, because it finishes this coming Friday.
Good Luck with your travels and I like to read your stories.
RAMON:
Hi Brian. What is the whole thing about Big Brother? I really don't know
anything for sure now. Some deejay has launched 'the idea' of inviting me into
the BB House in the UK, but that's all what happened. And if they really end
the show this week, they have to hurry...
Name: Kim
City, Country: Toronto, Canada
Sent: 10.22 PM - 7/21 2001
Hey..u r in Uk now...
hope u can Jump to America later~~!!
see ya..~~
RAMON:
Hi Kim! As soon as I can find somebody to get me (sponsored) to the US, I might
go there! Jay Leno wants me to come over, but he won't do a plane...
Maybe I just go swimming...
Name: Raffa
City, Country: Poznan,Poland
Sent: 4.02 PM - 7/21 2001
Hi Ramon!
here is your frend from Calella.what´up.I had hear about your project,and I
want inviait you to me. let me now what you think about that.
raffa from poland
RAMON:
Hey, Raffa! Great to meet old friends again by the internet! For the others:
Raffa and I worked together in the propaganda team of a Spanish discoteque for
a couple of summers! Raffa, Poland is on my route!
Name: Richard
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 1.49 PM - 7/21 2001
What is all this Big Brother stuff? We can't hear Capitol Radio in Scotland.
Please give us a clue....
Sent: 1.11 PM - 7/21 2001
And suddenly the Big Brother website is HACKED!
see www.bigbrother.co.uk
Sent: 12.59 PM - 7/21 2001
*** LET ME STAY FOR A DAY RULES !!! ***
BIG BROTHER SUCKS! (Just go in there and you'll find out!)
Name: Theodor
City, Country: London
Sent: 12.57 PM - 7/21 2001
Ramon,
Tell us more about you going into the Big Brother house, please. Also heard it
on the radio and couldn't believe it when I first heard it!
What a way to do things, Ramon! I love your life style!
Th.
Name: Ronald
City, Country: Battersea, England
Sent: 12.49 PM - 7/21 2001
Just heard about you on the Capital radio, I hope you do the BB thing as
nothing happens in our lives anyway. Summers can be boring. Cheer up everybody
in the Big Brother house, will you!!
Name: Barbara Holton
City, Country: Bretford, England
Sent: 12.46 PM - 7/21 2001
BIG RAMON into BIG BROTHER?
Yeah! Send in some intelligence forces!
But will you be evicted after one day?
(don't you seduce Helen too, Paul may get jealous!)
Name: Ian Hannaway
City, Country: Stockton-on-Tees, England
Sent: 12.43 PM - 7/21 2001
LOL Ramon, I know I shouldn't giggle when you make a boo boo, but the
photograph descriptions on day 79 at Iain's farmhouse are just too funny.
Looking forward to meeting u in the near future, try and come to Stockton
beetween the 28th July and the 4th August as we have a big riverside festival
going on in the town during that week, bye for now,
Ian
Name: Oscar Finnes
City, Country: London, London (UK)
Sent: 12.41 PM - 7/21 2001
Hey Ramon,
Rumours on the RADIO are saying you have been invited into the UK BIG BROTHER
HOUSE!!!!! TELL US ABOUT THAT BEFORE YOU GO THERE PLEASE!!!!
Name: su-a
City, Country: seoul,korea
Sent: 9.25 AM - 7/21 2001
wow! your idea is so great.i contact this place by ddanzi(a kind of
newspaper).i am studing for entering educational univ.so i am very poor at
english.after visiting your home page,i feel that so much..+.+
Name: Hamish Mcdougal
City, Country: Isle of Skye, United Kingdom of Scotland
Sent: 1.43 AM - 7/21 2001
Ramond, Come and visit us here in the Isle of Skye - you have nay seen Scotland
until you have seen the Mountains and the Islands!!!!!! And have you had a wee
dram yet? hic! We can can give you a grand tour of the Talisker Distillery here
in Skye - the finest malt in all the land! Go West young man, Go West!
RAMON:
I would love to visit the Scottish Isle of Skye, but unfortunately I don't
have any invitation from that place yet.
Know I'll be in the neighborhood on Saturday 21st, as I stay for a day in Fort
William.
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: Scotland
Sent: 12.22 AM - 7/21 2001
Ramon
Thanks for your message to your ex-hosts written whilst you were at Stonehaven.
I think you realise we soon grow fond of you and hate to say goodbye when you
leave for your next destination, always feeling that your visit is far too
short. There is never enough time to show you around and for you to meet people
who would also have found you to be an interesting person. I think that we all
wish that you could have stayed much longer, but of course we realise that if
you did, that it would take you about ten years to complete your world travel!
As you can see, this project is gaining momentum from all over the world, with
all your offers of accommodation pouring in. It has been a HUGE pleasure to
share a day with you. I know that your parents must worry about you and if they
read this messageboard, I hope that they will realise that we all want to take
care of you for a day in the best way that we can. Take
care!
Name: Bret
City, Country: USA
Sent: 10.08 PM - 7/20 2001
Ramon,
I don't think your being arrogant. Your being real and honest. How hard is it
to keep up with all of our own
family and friends? I don't think your host's expect you to keep in touch with
them. (at least they should'nt)
It's just not feasible on a one to one basis. They can stay in touch with you
through this message board, which
I think is why you put it up. This allows them along with the rest of us to
share your life and travels, and from time to time say hi! without all the
formalities. I really appreciate your honesty, and thoughtfullness to your
ex-hosts along with your new hosts.
To All ex-host and future host: Thank you for allowing Ramon into your homes
and letting us share in your
lives for that day or days. I shall be looking forward to reading all the posts
from you about how fun it was to have Ramon over. Take Care All.
Name: cram
City, Country: Madras, India
Sent: 4.28 PM - 7/20 2001
Hey Ramon
I have posted my invite to you, but I don't see my city on your locations list.
Man, you are welcome anytime in my home in my city.
Have a great trip, wherever you are.
Ciao for now
cram
RE FROM RAMON:
the locations-page says very clearly that it has not been updated since APRIL
29. So that's it. I am trying another solution, but till then the
placestogo-page only is an example of where I am invited till April 29.
Name: Melanie Scheider, Radio Eins
City, Country: Berlin
Sent: 3.51 PM - 7/20 2001
Lieber Ramon,
I hope that you speek german, so that we can do an interview with you. Radio
Eins would like to know, how it works to travel in your style. Pleas give us a
call, if possible:
Radio eins, Melanie Scheider 049 / 331 - 731 - 4064
Thanks an hope to hear from you
RE FROM RAMON:
I am sorry but I don't speak that good German.
I once was invited for a radio interview on German Radio but it could not go
on, because I refused to speak German and the host of the program told me that
his audience just doesn't understand English.
I found that a good reason not to do that interview. Why should I promote my
ENGLISH website to people who would not even understand it?
It is just very clear to me. Please understand not everybody speaks every
language on this planet.
Respect,
Ramon.
Name: Ian Sanders
City, Country: Aberdeen, Scotland
Sent: 12.29 PM - 7/20 2001
To Ramon, thanks for visiting
To Elaine and Fraser, thanks for the presents. Much appreciated
Name: yvette
City, Country: korea
Sent: 8.15 AM - 7/20 2001
keep going on..
your trip seems like very exciting
5years ago i've been in europe.
it was so great.
furthermore, hallland..it's too..
your story remind me many things in europe..
take care.,
i live in korea, if you have any schedule..
i hope to see you.
Name: Rodolfo
City, Country: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Sent: 10.01 PM - 7/19 2001
Hi Man, fabulous you idea!! I'd like to know how about the girls ? Are they hot
like here in Brazil ?? Good Luky!!
See You
RAMON:
Hot girls in the United Kingdom? I don't really know. I think they are
hidden from me...
Name: Melinda
City, Country: Crystal, USA
Sent: 5.13 PM - 7/19 2001
I have been to Holland, Scotland, and Seattle and have also found that the
weather in these places to be alike.
Name: Elaine and Fraser Martin
City, Country: Stonehaven, Scotland
Sent: 4.53 PM - 7/19 2001
Hello Ramon, Fraser and I would just like to say it was a pleasure meeting up
with you. We enjoyed your company and would like to wish you every success in
you travels. We will follow your progress through the website. Take care of
yourself. And we would like to thank Jos and Annemarie Tissen for the lovely
print they gave us via Ramon. Thankx
Name: Sylvain Quenel SYWALK
City, Country: FRANCE,Toulouse
Sent: 3.02 PM - 7/19 2001
HI RAMON !!!
I'm an eighteen old french guy,and i'm walking all over the world,during 6 years,only
with feets and boats.
My site:www.sylvainquenel.com
(first in french,later in english and dutch...)
And your site is EXCELLENT !!!
If somebody go to france,go to my family(8 houses around the france).
Name: Brian
City, Country: South Africa
Sent: 6.30 AM - 7/19 2001
Hi Ramon
You can feel hugely proud of the newspaper report from The Scotland Herald. Are
other newspaper reports as positive as this one about you?
Keep strong, Ramon
Brian
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sent: 2.23 AM - 7/19 2001
David,
I couldn't have said it better but the following phrase." Love is not
blind; it sees more, not less. But because it sees more, it is willing to see
less.
RAMON:
Please stop the preaching and tell me what this is about clearer, because a
lot of people, including I, don't get the clue of most of your posting.
Name: David
City, Country: Sopron, Hungary
Sent: 11.27 PM - 7/18 2001
Hi CB,
No worries mate. I read your post totally wrong the first time. Still feel like
a fool for the initial reply. I thought you were saying "shame on me"
besides saying I was a scientologist.
Anyway our quirks are what make us unique right? Yeah, that's a good thing for
me to say for myself right now :-).
I agree about personal character and choices, etc.
However if you take behaviour into a cultural context you can see trends and it
can help you understand why people sometimes behave/react in certain ways to
certain situations. Particularly if you compare to another cultural context and
can predict an "average" reaction to the same situation in another
cultural context - and can see a difference.
Anyway got to go, take it easy, ciao,
David
Name: Patricia Fagan
City, Country: Warwick, USA
Sent: 9.32 PM - 7/18 2001
Tragedy in Eastern Canada
Gander NLFD (AP) Canada's Worst Air Disaster
occurred earlier today when a Cessna 152,
a small two-seater plane, crashed into a
cemetery early this morning in central Newfoundland.
Search and rescue workers have recovered
826 bodies so far, and expect that number
to climb as digging continues into the evening.
Patricia
Fagan
Name: C.B.
City, Country: USA
Sent: 6.24 PM - 7/18 2001
David, I actually thought you were a sociologist. I have never heard of scientology
until you mentioned it. I stay away from cult things. In a way, I believe that
the behavior of a person, no matter where they are from, is more of an
individual choice or character. Collectively, yes they may group together and
behave culturally wise.
Drinking heavily or staying up all night may be acceptable in certain societies
or cultures, but not everyone will do it. Don’t you think? To each his own.
Everyone knows what’s bad or good, what’s wrong or right no matter where he or
she are from.
It was nice and interesting to hear your opinion about the behavior of host and
guest. And yes, I get your point. And as I have always said to my children, as
they left the house, “Behave and be nice” everyone.
Name: Jos and Annemarie Tissen
City, Country: Forbes by Alford, Scotland
Sent: 4.16 PM - 7/18 2001
Hiya Ramon, (Malon)
We hope you enjoyed your time with us as much as we enjoyed our time with you!
It was fan-bloody-tastic!!
It was really really nice to have you over and we will have fond memories.
Always welcome.
Doehoeg, (the dutch byeeee)
Jos, Annemarie, Jasper and Ben Tissen
Name: Theodor
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 1.15 PM - 7/18 2001
Just read your updated FAQ-page: "Scared? Why should I be scared? People
are just made scared by television."
And you are totally right there. But I do think hitchhiking is not really a
safe thing in other parts of this world?
Do any Americans have an opinion about hitchhiking through the States? And what
about Africa or Asia? I don't thing the no-budget going around is very easy out
there...
But I am enjoying your project daily, sometimes even twice a day! Hey - you
give me something to enjoy in my life! Thanks!
Theodor.
Name: David
City, Country: Sopron, Hungary
Sent: 12.00 PM - 7/18 2001
sorry CB, I thought you said scientologist.
I should read these things before I post.
anyway I will be writing the book.
sorry CB
ciao
David
Name: David
City, Country: Sopron, Hungary
Sent: 11.58 AM - 7/18 2001
Hi there,
10-4 CB! Breaker 1-9! Scientology is a very dangeous cult, however if you want
to find out all its secrets check out www.xenu.net.
However, after reading my post again I agree that it does have somewhat of a
scientology-like feeling to it (unintentionally I assure you).
However seriously, if you think that none of my points have merit then you are
fooling yourself.
Nothing turns off people more than someone that thinks that his culture and
society are perfect and resists any attempt at expressing an objective
viewpoint that highlights negative aspects thereof. Sound familiar? If so,
there is help. Just wait for my book: "A Completely Objective, Perfect,
and Scientific (*But Non-Scientology Related*) Review of Anglo-Saxon
Culturally-Influenced Behaviour Patterns In the Modern World: Past, Present,
and Future, and How Understanding Can Make You a Better Person"
You get the first copy for free, as a goodwill gesture from me to you. You see!
There is somebody who cares out there.
There will be lots of illustrations, for example, arrows with a fist to a face
and feet to a groin to show examples of particularly bad reactions to cultural
clashes to underline my point.
ciao,
David
P.S. I remember a conversation once in Seattle, I and another American friend
were making fun on the US mail system, how much it sucks. Then my Scottish
friend joined in and said how great the Royal Mail is (delivers twice a day,
etc), and my American friend suddenly changed and got really upset and started
saying how great the US mail is; he could not stand to think that another
country could be better in something. I have seen this happen in the reverse as
well. Anyway I have no clue how the US mail stands up to the Royal mail and I
don't really care, but it's just another example to prove my point. What is my
point? Wait for the book and see.
Name: noorie
City, Country: pakistan
Sent: 10.30 AM - 7/18 2001
hi ramon
i think that that u r doing a magnificent job that no media has ever been able
to do. u r getting right into the minds and hearts of people and telling the
world what we really are inside. u are binding the whole world together by ur
trip and ur website.
may God bless u.
loves
noorie
Name: Maria
City, Country: Belgium/Finland
Sent: 9.52 AM - 7/18 2001
Hi Ramon! I have been following your project ever since I heard your interview
on the Belgian Radio 2 and I think it's just fantastic! And very fascinating to
follow.
I'm a Finn living on the Belgian coast and I was just wondering whether you
have had any response/invitations from Finland? I have sent info about your
website to some of my friends living in Finland as well as to two big
newspapers in Finland (Helsingin Sanomat and Ilta-Sanomat) not knowing if there
have already been articles/interviews in the Finnish press or on the radio.
Hopefully there will be some reaction/interest as Scandinavia is surely worth a
visit!! I would personally love to invite you to Finland but well, as I don't
live there anymore ... I have invited you to Belgium, though, so should you
have your ways back over here you are welcome at any time!!
I wish you all the best on your future journeys! And what comes to all the
negative messages: I couldn't agree more as with the people saying that well -
you can't please them all or get along with everyone. Just stay yourself. To me
you give the impression of being a very nice and funny person and I think I
would enjoy it very much having you as a guest. Take care!
Sent: 5.20 AM - 7/18 2001
61 countries? I heard noises - this www is really haunted.
Name: Marbella
Sent: 3.30 AM - 7/18 2001
David [as below], I want to buy the book!
;-)
Name: C.B.
City, Country: USA
Sent: 1.49 AM - 7/18 2001
David, are you a sociologist? Thank you for your lengthily and detailed
explanation about the culture and social behavior of the human species in this
world. I think your diagnosis of the June 30 report just about wraps it all up.
Everyone, both Anglo-Saxons and continental Europeans, behave yourself. Shame
on you.
Name: carol fitzpatrick
City, Country: Dundrum, N.Ireland
Sent: 10.18 PM - 7/17 2001
Mark Southgate,
Thanks a million for going to so much trouble to gather together all that info
on Edinburgh for me.
The websites should prove really helpful, and thanks for the thought but yes,
we have booked what looks to be a really nice hotel in the city centre.
Armed with all this information I,m looking forward to our trip even more.
Thanks again,
Carol.
Name: Mark Southgate
City, Country: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
Sent: 7.12 PM - 7/17 2001
Carol Fitzpatrick,
Hi! Good to hear that you are planning a weekend break to this fine city.
Depends what type of food and what type of pubs you like, but I can personally
recommend the Cumberland Bar (Cumberland Street, New Town); the Baillie (St.
Stephen Street, my local!); and the Guildford Arms in west register street (New
Town, just off Princes Street) - if you like the 'traditional' type of pub.
I would avoid the Grassmarket on a Saturday or Sunday night unless you want to
spend your evening with lots of drunk people in their late teens and early
twenties. However, if you are in the Grassmarket during the day, the 'Bow Bar'
is another good traditional pub, and another good pub in the Old Town is up
near the castle - I think it's called the Ensign Ewart, and has live music at
weekends - a good 'craic' apparently.
As for restaurants, if you like fish, 'Fishers' is very good. They are on The
Shore in Leith (near the sea), but also have a new branch in the New Town.
'Blue' and the 'Atrium' above the Traverse Theatre are also both good - they
are in the same building and have the same owner, but the Atrium is quite a bit
more expensive. If you want a restaurant with a view, the 'Tower' apparently
has great views of the Castle and the Old Town. I have also heard good reports
of 'Martins' restaurant in the New Town; 'Sweet Melindas' and 'Hole in the
Wall' - both in the Old Town/Marchmont. Perhaps, if any locals are reading this
they could suggest some more places, as I have only been here a few weeks. Oh
yeah, and Valvonna and Crolla (the deli) is a great place for lunch - but a bit
out of the way and also very busy at weekends.
Some places to see - Royal Botanical Gardens in Stockbridge; Camera Obscura at
the top of the Royal Mile is good fun; Arthurs Seat or Calton Hill will give
you a great view of the city - Calton Hill is quicker, just follow the East end
of Princes Street and go up the steps. If you do go up Arthurs Seat (in
Holyrood Park), there is a great pub in Duddingston - its the oldest pub in
Edinburgh and at the bottom of the hill, by the loch on the south side of
Arthurs Seat/Holyrood Park. All the usual 'tourist' stuff is good too - the
Castle of course, and tours of Mary Kings Close are recomended if you don't
mind creepy tales of haunted streets! (Mary Kings Close is a series of
underground passages in the Old Town which were streets that were sealed off
during the plague and are said to be haunted). A trip on the Maid of the Forth
boat to see Incholm Island and the Forth Bridge is good too, if the sun is
shining!
I have family visiting over the next few weekends, so I can't offer you
anywhere to stay, but I assume you have somewhere booked?
Finally, there is a Jazz and Blues Festival on from July 27 to August 5th, if
you like that sort of music. See: http://www.jazzmusic.co.uk/frame.html for
details. From 5th of August the Edinburgh Festival starts and it gets VERY
busy!
Anyway, I hope all this helps - sorry to take up so much space on Ramons
message board! Also, some useful web sites for you to try for more info:
Pauls Guide to Edinburgh (a personal, local view)
http://www.paultaddei.com/edinburgh.html
Edinburgh the Best (recommends 'the best' pubs, restaurants, etc (from Peter
Irvines Book)
http://www.famousgrouse.com/scotlandthebest/tfg/index.phtml?section=1
Edinburgh Restaurants:
http://www.finewinediary.com/restaurants/edguide.shtml
Time Out Guide to Edinburgh:
http://www.timeout.com/edinburgh/index.html
Independent '50'Best Things in Edinburgh.
http://travel.independent.co.uk/destinations/europe/uk/story.jsp?story=56312
Edinburgh Pubs:
http://www.scottishpubguide.com
Hope this helps - enjoy your stay!
Mark Southgate.
http://www.TheGoodShopGuide.com
Edinburgh, Scotland.
Name: David
City, Country: Sopron, Hungary
Sent: 6.46 PM - 7/17 2001
i there,
I have just caught up on Ramon's journeys after missing a couple of weeks and I
must admit to being very surprised at the emotions displayed after the night
out on 30 June.
Not to rehash to bad bits, but just to give a few person observations of some
cultural differences that may have contributed to the situation:
In anglo-saxon countries (and I guess Ireland technically isn't one but
culturally it's close enough to count), there're are some really tremendous
social forces that (thankfully) don't exist in such potent forms in continental
European countries (or probably anywhere outside the anglo-saxon world). Among
these is a definite tendency to not show or admit any weakness around drinking,
or else your behaviour will be "corrected" by negative feedback from
your peers, etc.
While I'm from the states I must say that these social forces around drinking
are (IMHO) a bit stronger in the UK and Ireland compared to the USA, whereas in
the states we have other social forces stronger (worse) with other things.
Anyway it's pretty similar all around in the anglo-Saxon world once you strip
off the superficial differences.
Anyway, taken in this context, it is fairly normal to see a strong reaction
from Ramon's hosts after he complained about an uncomfortable situation. That
together with the fact that the situation was linked/based on alcohol and
together with whatever else might have happened to indicate [temporary] social
"weakness" in Ramon to his hosts makes it all to easy to imagine the
negative reaction.
We would hope that most people in cultures based on/heavily influenced by
anglo-saxon culture have risen above this sort of conditioned reaction, but for
anyone from the UK/Ireland/Canada/Oz/NZ/USA etc I would think that the reaction
from Ramon's hosts was sadly very predictable. However for continental
Europeans, the reaction would (justifiably) seem overpowered and show very bad
manners from the hosts.
I would even - at the expense of being inflammatory on an issue that should be
closed - suggest that even though we (as conditioned anglo-saxons :->) have
been conditioned to "punish" social weakness in much the same way
Ramon's hosts have attacked him for complaining after their night out together,
that we can still admit that this behaviour is destructive and indicates an
internal weakness in the person doing the attacking.
While anglo-saxon cultures are generally well-organized and disciplined, the
idea to attack social weakness is inbred from day one. Our societies are very
competitive, which gives us a lot of shared advantages, but also provides some
unwanted weaknesses. In the states it can be particularly pronounced,
especially when combined with the frontier culture that didn't disappear with
the frontier.
I write this as an American (una "persona dagli stati uniti" - per
gli attivisti italiani che leggono e se la prendono :-) ) but having lived
extensively abroad has shown me a bit some of the relative strengths and
weakness of my own vs. other cultures.
Anyway, Ramon, I hope this helps, maybe it's something you already knew, maybe
you just want to move on and forget it!
anyway I hope to be able to invite you to Sopron, Hungary, which is a beautiful
city and has lots of nice people, and there are some good pubs in the center of
town as well!!!! I just hope you train well for the night out well in
advance!!! Or you will regret it!!! :-) Just kidding!!!
(Now I just have to convince my wife... :-) )
cheers,
David
Name: Sally
City, Country: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Sent: 5.06 PM - 7/17 2001
excuse me for butting in... :-) but actually the proper title is: The United
Kingdom, Northern Ireland and the Commonwealth the united kingdom bit includes
england, wales and scotland, northern ireland is northern ireland (6 counties)
and the commonwealth (can anybody remember which countries are included these
days?)used to be/is all the pink bits on the world map!!!
As far as I know ireland (the south) is not included in the uk (thats what all
the trouble is about over here in the north!!)and is not part of the
commonwealth.
As someone who lives in Northern Ireland I have to remind some people in
mainland UK that northern ireland is still part of the the uk albeit as a
seperate idenitity. I hope that the above explaination helps
to anyone thinking of coming to any part of the uk or ireland (north or south)
you will not be disappointed
regards to all
sally
PS we are all supposed to be european these days anyway :-P
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 4.28 PM - 7/17 2001
Thank you Sandra, I think I understand it all now. If I were to go only to
England, I would then say "I'm going to England" not "I'm going
to Great Britain" Right?
I had to read it over and over to understand. The summary really helped. Thanks.
Nina
Name: alan shields
City, Country: Glasgow, Scotland (UK)
Sent: 4.16 PM - 7/17 2001
Hi nena,
to answer your question
the uk is made up of four contries
scotland
england
Ireland
and wales
each counrty is part of the british isles and most are governd by england may i
suggest you look at www.mapit.co.uk
Name: alan shields
City, Country: Glasgow, Scotland (UK)
Sent: 4.08 PM - 7/17 2001
Hi Ramon,
Good report on Glasgow the weather is still good thanks to you
hope you are well, and we hope that every one in this global village will offer
you there hand in frendship and support with your mission
regards my friend
love from alan & laraine
Name: judith de groot
City, Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 12.48 PM - 7/17 2001
Hey Ramon! Still doing great! And I love your photo's, the UK (including
England, Ireland and Scotland) seems to be a beautiful country. And about Bob
telling you you should visit Cornwall before leaving the UK; one of my
custumers of "Kroeg van Klaas" (a pub in Groningen, The Neth. for the
non-dutch-speaking-ones) is about to leave to go and live in Cornwall for a
year or two.. So... I will tell him about you and hope that'll work out...
Wish you all the best and lots of love!
Juut
Name: Carol Fitzpatrick
City, Country: Dundrum, N. Ireland
Sent: 12.31 PM - 7/17 2001
Mark Southgate,
Ramon stayed with us when he was in N. Ireland last week and I was very keen to
hear what he had to say about Edinburgh as we'll be going there for a weekend
in a couple of weeks and have never been there before. Obviously his stay there
was too short for him to go into too much detail which was disappointing.
We enjoy good food, good craic (irish term for fun, don't panic anybody) and
good pubs. This is a very rare break from the kids so we don't want to waste
time trying to find the good places to go. Any recommendations? I appreciate
you haven't been in Edinburgh for long so if anyone else has any suggestions
feel free to sell your city.
Carol.
Name: Sandra
City, Country: Arizona, USA
Sent: 6.42 AM - 7/17 2001
To summarize:
I. United Kingdom
A. Great Britain
1. England
2. Scotland
3. Wales
4. Isle of Man
5. Channel Islands
B. Northern Island
II. Ireland (Southern portion of island)
Did I get this correct?
Sent: 6.20 AM - 7/17 2001
Nina,
Good questions. I can visualize it all, since my Mom is English (from England,
GB, UK) and I have visited the areas, but following is the formal definitions:
United Kingdom = Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Great Britain = principal island of the United Kingdom, including England,
Scotland and Wales, and administratively, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands
Northern Ireland = division of the United Kingdom, in the NE part of the island
of Ireland (capital Belfast)
Ireland = island of the British Isles, west of Great Britain, comprising the
Southern provinces of the island
Hope this helps. I agree it can be confusing.
Sandra
England = division of the United Kingdom and North Ireland occupying most of
the southern half of island of Great Britain
Name: Nina
City, Country: Panama
Sent: 2.30 AM - 7/17 2001
I have a question or two.I Hope someone can explain this to me. Since I live
way over here, and Europe is way over there. There are some things that are
confusing to me. On Ramon’s reports, I see that after each country he puts down
UK. Examples: Ireland UK, England UK, etc.
Now, if the UK stands for United Kingdom? Are all these country a part of the
United Kingdom? I thought only England was the United Kingdom.
Also, why do some people call it England, and others Great Britain? Why do some
call it Holland and others, the Netherlands? Heck! Why do all these countries
have 2 names? Are there any more countries with 2 names?
Maybe I should have paid better attention to my High School History and
Geography classes when I was a teenager, instead of just wanting to have fun
all the time :-) And please, no “Duh’s”, a polite answer will do.
LSOM, you got me thinking of what to say.
Name: mm_in_md
City, Country: USA
Sent: 12.08 AM - 7/17 2001
Ramon,
Seems the reporting is becoming a hardship for you.
Those of us following your travels would hate to see your delightful
descriptions curtailed.
Have you considered modifying the scope of your invitations to "let me
stay for a day"... (and two nights)?
I think most people who have invited you (myself included) would not be
concerned about an extra night, and that would give you time to get some sleep
as well as update the web site.
You have already extended your stays several times successfully--why not just
always ask your future hosts if they would mind an extra night, if necessary?
One other thing--love your photos! Especially those of the details of how the
people you are visiting live--the food, their homes, cars, stores, etc. Keep it
up! You're making the world a smaller place.
Name: Sylvia and Peter
City, Country: North Berwick
Sent: 11.29 PM - 7/16 2001
Hi Ramon
You were featured in the Edinburgh Evening News tonight so your travel news has
finally reached Scotland! I have e-mailed you a copy. By the way, how did you
get to Aberdeen? Or do we have to wait until tomorrow's report to find out?
Bye for now
Take care!
Name: Mariana Corrêa
City, Country: Guarulhos, Brazil
Sent: 10.44 PM - 7/16 2001
Dear Ramon
Me and my granpa loved your site!
My dreams is to travel all around the word too...
I adimered your courage to do that, and I´m glad to know that everything is
doing so well!
I wish I could host you but I´m just 17 and live with my parents!
Big Hug from Brazil
Mariana
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
City, Country: Forbes, Scotland (UK)
Sent: 10.38 PM - 7/16 2001
Just uploaded the last reports until yesterday. Pictures will follow later as I
currently work on a Netscape 4+ browser, which just refuses to do certain
things...
Regards,
Ramon.
Name: Fleur
City, Country: eindhoven, the netherlands
Sent: 8.45 PM - 7/16 2001
Ramon: in one word: great! in zwolle we let you stay for a bbq on our roof (do
you remember?), but when you are in Eindhoven (maybe to fly), you are welcome!
Name: Bob
City, Country: London, UK
Sent: 5.52 PM - 7/16 2001
Ramon, before you leave the UK, you MUST see the two most beautiful parts of
England - I know you have not seen them yet.
They are: The Lake District and Cornwall.
I think you will surely love both of these places.
Go well.
Bob.
Name: Melanie
City, Country: Portsmouth, UK
Sent: 5.02 PM - 7/16 2001
Hey Ramon! You haven't visited Portsmouth, we've got Nelson's ship 'The
Victory', the first iron clad ship 'The Warrior' and a peice of wood they think
is 'The Mary Rose!'
Name: Karen
City, Country: Germany
Sent: 1.47 PM - 7/16 2001
To LSOM: "To delete postings (visits) is to disagree with the
visitor/quest's presence"? No it is definitely not if some postings are
just common rude or insulting without further intelligence... I have seen some
of them and it's good Ramon removes them...
Name: J.J. Lee
City, Country: Seoul, Korea
Sent: 8.36 AM - 7/16 2001
Hi, Ramon!
Today morning, I came to know your travelling at www.ddanzi.com --- one of the
most popular site in Korea(I'm poor at English). That site describes you as
'Present Tom Sawyer'.
I think you had very good idea. Take care on you trip and give Bergkamp my best
regards later. :)
Name: LSOM
City, Country: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
Sent: 8.14 AM - 7/16 2001
RAMON,
To delete postings (visits) is to disagree with the visitor/quest's presence on
this website (host). Your home (dwelling) is LMSFAD where you go back each day.
You have chosen the best site for your home. There is no reason to rush as a
good pace is necessary to attain the right momentum of this project.
History (yesterday) should be properly preserved / recorded / stored, no
tampering, alteration or be deleted for future reference.
The future (tomorrow) should not be a mystery as we can plan, organise and
coordinate event or activity ahead of time.
The gift (the present) should be NOW. 'Life is so precious to waste, it should
be filled with the best of the moment'.
********************************
To Nina,
Thank you. I believed you have agreed to play / execute that '20 years from
now' game. Lets Ramon be our host. To begin with: Nina's 11 days old posting
having mentioned that 'Sometimes life is toO short'.
COMMON SENSE will steer us back to the right SPACE (path). A SPACE at a TIME,
step by step, day by day, place by place, time by time towards that SPACE
(eternity). It is a privilege to be very much alived (healthy) and to discover
having these PrincipLEs namely PATIENCE, SELF CONTROL, LOVE, KINDNESS,
GENTLENESS, being JOYFUL and at PEACE as well as GOODNESS with one's time
(lifespan) and space (oneself). There is no law above / against those
principLEs. If we know the truth, the truth will set us free. Therefore, lets
us all make the best use of the resources (TIME and SPACE) available for the
betterment and survival of mankind.
"Love Soon Overtakes Misery"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Name: Norma
City, Country: Seoul, Republic of Korea(South Korea)
Sent: 7.38 AM - 7/16 2001
HI,Ramon,
I had never thought about travelling just like you.
On suffing the web, I found your home page casually.
Wishing you luck, and visit Korea someday when I will prepare to invite you.
Bye~!
Name: Sylvia Beaumont
City, Country: North Berwick
Sent: 10.26 PM - 7/15 2001
To Mark Southgate and Alan Shields
We too had the pleasure of having Ramon for a day here in North Berwick and
felt that it wasn't long enough. It is a pity that he has to spend time on the
computer with writing up reports, uploading pictures and answering e-mails.
When he logged on to the internet on Friday night he had about 200 e-mails! I
was hoping that he might need a secretary to accompany him on his travels! I
think he could do with a laptop so that he could be typing in reports whilst on
the move and then download them at his host's house, but obviously it would be
another thing to carry in that already heavy rucksack.
He really is a very friendly and trustworthy person to have in your house and
if anyone reads this, please go ahead and invite him to stay for a day so that
he can see as much of Scotland as possible before he takes off to the other 64
countries to which he has been invited. It really is a huge thing which will
snowball as time goes on and more people get to hear about his exploits. When
he finishes his tour round the world we will all have to have a get together in
the Netherlands at the launch of his book!
If his family read this, they should be very proud of Ramon, he is a great guy
with a very original idea and deserves to go far!
Name: Sandra
City, Country: Arizona, USA
Sent: 5.34 PM - 7/15 2001
Bret,
You are correct, thanks for the insight. True it would be better for Ramon to
travel in the areas closest, step by step, versus rushing to America. And your
point about waiting to come to America until more people know about the project
is excellent. In order to see much of America he will need many places to stay.
And he still needs to get further into Europe as well. It is a big world for
sure.
I really love this project, and reading about all the adventures, seeing the
scenery and all the other great photographs of the local sights and the people,
and also in a sense meeting Ramon's hosts. Everyone has been so wonderful.
Take your time Ramon, we want to follow the project for years, and want you to
enjoy it at your pace. :-)
Regards,
Sandra
Name: Mark Southgate
City, Country: Edinburgh, Scotland
Sent: 4.16 PM - 7/15 2001
Hi Ramon!
Hope you are well on your way north now and enjoying the sunshine which has
made an appearance today! It was great to have you in Edinburgh for the night,
just a pity you did not have much chance to see the city. With all the time
spent typing reports, uploading and captioning photos, it seems like a full
time job! I just hope you get enough time off to see as much of the places you
are visiting as you want to!
Speaking of the media, I hope some of the Scottish newspapers, radio and TV get
to find you and give your visit to Scotland some publicity. It would be a great
pity if you did not get to see the amazing scenery of the Scottish Highlands
and Islands due to not enough people in Scotland knowing you were here and
hence a lack of invitations. Scottish people are very, warm, friendly and
welcoming generally and I am sure there must be many people out there willing
to share a day or two with you - if only they knew about your project.
If anybody in Scotland (especially the North and West and the islands) is
reading this - invite Ramon into your home and show him what a beautiful
country we live in!
Finally, Ramon - if you need somewhere to stay on your way back 'down south',
you are more than welcome to stay with me again. This will also give you some
time to see the parts of Edinburgh you did not get to see last time (the Old
Town; Holyrood; the view from Arthurs Seat or Calton Hill; Botanical Gardens;
Water of Leith; etc).
And to Sally, Simon, Sammy and Oliver...
Just to say many thanks for the wonderful gifts from Belfast - the handmade
paperweights (a work of art) and the games from the kids, as well as the red
lolly!
Sorry about such a long message!
Best wishes,
Mark.
http://www.TheGoodShopGuide.com
Edinburgh, Scotland. UK.
Name: alan shields
City, Country: Glasgow, Scotland (UK)
Sent: 3.32 PM - 7/15 2001
Ramon left glasgow at14.15hrs today on his way to aberdeen i hope he had a good
time with use and enjoyed some of the pubs we went to.
regards and best wishes from alan & laraine shields
ps if you ever get back to glasgow you will always have a place to stay.
Name: Sylvia
City, Country: North Berwick, Scotland
Sent: 11.33 AM - 7/15 2001
A silly poem - RAMON FOR A DAY . COM
You came to stay at our house
On the thirteenth of July
And what a big surprise you had
When you saw my Cottage Pie
I saw you get your camera out
Before you took a bite
And then you said to me that it
Will be on your website
You climbed six hundred and thirteen feet
Right up North Berwick Law
And when at last you reached the top
A whale's jaw bone you saw
On your internet travels around the world
Luck is wished for you Ramon
With your website www dot
Let me stay for a day dot com
All the best
Sylvia Beaumont
Name: Sylvia and Peter Beaumont
City, Country: North Berwick, Scotland
Sent: 11.19 AM - 7/15 2001
Ramon
Out of all the thousands of invitations you received, you picked on North Berwick,
a small town you had never heard of before to 'Come and stay for a day'. Thank
you for a very interesting 24 hours spent with us, even though you had never
seen a Cottage Pie before, at least you ate it, after photographing it! Pity
you could not have stayed another day. We wish you the best of luck with your
internet travels and great success with your book at the end of it all. Hope to
see North Berwick in it!
Kind regards
Sylvia, Peter & Richard Beaumont
Name: Sally
City, Country: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Sent: 10.38 AM - 7/15 2001
Hi Ramon
Glad to hear that you made it to your next stop, very pleased that you got
train tickets from Seacat I told you the Scots were very generous didn't I? My
thanks to carol and terry for the candle. I think the host gift idea is
brilliant. For all of you still thinking about inviting Ramon just do it, this
project is multi layered and there are many benefits to both Ramon and the
hosts that are not immediately obvious, the whole project puts the internet
back where it firmly belongs... with the ordinary user and ordinary people..
for all future hosts... Ramon is very tall and likes to drink coffee and
pepsi.. Good luck on your travels Ramon
regards
Sally, Simon, Sammy and Oliver
PS for Ramon's mum... he is looking healthy and well and you have every right
to be very proud of him, you have done a good job in raising him.
Name: Bret
City, Country: USA
Sent: 7.41 AM - 7/15 2001
Sandra,
What's the rush to get Ramon over to the USA. As I recall, he said it will take
some three years to accomplish his project. Doesn't it make more sense to spend
the first years around the closest continents. The longer it takes for Ramon to
get here, the more offers he will get, hence the more of the States he'll get
to see. I can't imagine bouncing from one country to another without being
"burned out" I think Ramon has a good pace going and should stick to
it. Like you, I'm along for the ride and it's been pretty enjoyable so far. I'm
not getting down on you Sandra, because I can clearly see how anxious and
excited you are about this project and thats great! So let's let Ramon chart
his course, and when he shows up in your area all the better. Promise me Sandra
that you'll get Ramon to the Grand Canyon. He just has to see it. I'll try to
get my friends in Prescott to sponsor Ramon.
Ramon,
Is not traveling with a laptop by choice? It would seem to really help out in
catching up with reports on those long train rides or just idle
moments.......Ok, so I've revealed my selfish addiction to your project, and am
thinking of ways for you to keep up on this very involved project. So if you
would prefer to have a laptop but just can't afford one. ATTENTION!!!! Computer
manufactures, Sponsor Ramon!!!!! Thank You Bret
Ok Ramon it's time to send your dad a Birthday e-mail. Looking forward to the
next report.
Name: Sandra
City, Country: Tucson, AZ. USA
Sent: 2.38 AM - 7/15 2001
Dear Jay Leno, NBC,
I am wondering when you are going to provide some sponsorship to
"letmestayforday.com"? Ramon has indicated on his website a few times
that Jay Leno Show has shown interest.
http://pub.alxnet.com/guestbook?id=2032000
We (the world following him) wants to get him across the Atlantic. He's stuck
in a small loop in Netherlands and Great Britain!!
Jay, get him over here! :-)
Thanks,
Sandra
Name: Sandra
City, Country: Tucson, AZ. USA
Sent: 1.57 AM - 7/15 2001
Hi Ramon,
I will send your Dad a Birthday greeting. :-)
My Dad has passed away. My Mother lives with me now. I am just teaching her the
internet, and have shown her alittle of your site and your travels thus far.
She is a WWII British War Bride. Come to Tucson, AZ, we can chat about all
that, and show you the Southwest as well. :-) Mom is from Leyland, Lancashire,
England, and came to USA after WWII to marry my Dad a year after the war ended.
These are the GOOD stories of traveling the world and learning about the world!
:-)
Cheers,
Sandra
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Glasgow, Scotland (UK)
Sent: 1.48 AM - 7/15 2001
Sandra, thank you for your writings! And especially about my current life
style. I like to do both, relaxing at somebody's home, but I don't regret the
nightlives I've seen 'till now. It's just all part of the experience. If I know
I can relax a bit afterwards, I don't worry at all.
I really appreciate ANY comments. I hope a lot of people think so open-mindend
like you do.
I hope to visit the USA some time ever, and I know Jay Leno hopes I'll visit
him too, but 'till now I just have to work on Europe. No-budget travelling,
means just waiting for a sponsor... or a ticket. :-)
But I'll just know things will work out fine and I hope I can see a lot on this
big big world on the kindness and hospitality of its people. No concerns or
worries on my side.
Only my parents worry sometimes, but that's just a parents thing. (By the way,
my dad just celebrated his 59th birthday, everybody is welcome to send him a
mail at dad@letmestayforaday.com! He'll love that!)
With regards to all,
Ramon Stoppelenburg.
Name: Sandra
Country: Tucson, AZ. USA
Sent: 1.37 AM - 7/15 2001
Thanks Alan McDonald, Charlene, Bret - agree too
Sandra
Name: Sandra
Country: Tucson, AZ. USA
Sent: 1.26 AM - 7/15 2001
Dear Ramon,
I have been following your journey all along, and I subscribe to your daily
email alerts (thank you), but was a bit behind in reading the message board. I
am shocked. I read the now infamous June 30th report (I hate to bring it up
again) and found it not to be a big deal. It was a "diary" entry, and
I am miffed why people got all bent out of shape about a seemingly tired night
out, and you wrote about it. Geesh!!!
I won't rehash the events because it has been rehashed well enough already on
this message board. It's been two weeks, move on. You said it like it is, and that's
what counts, it is YOUR travel experience, and YOUR writings, and YOUR
feelings, and YOUR impressions. You are staying for a night (or two, or three),
but you are not required as payment for room and board to write "this was
an absolutely lovely experience and I loved every second of it!"
If there are uncomfortable times, you should be honest about those. That is
life, that is the world experience. Write it as a diary, not as a forced edited
version, all sugar coated. You are staying with strangers, and you are a
stranger to your hosts. There is sure to be some differences. But I feel for
you, because I am sure each host, each night, wants to take you out to a pub, a
club, etc. At least that is how it seems so far.
Hey hosts, how about after some sightseeing during the day, a dinner at home or
a restaurant for dinner, then just come home and "veg out" during the
evening?? That's what I would offer. I don't think someone like Ramon who is on
the go 24 hrs a day has to be entertained every evening at a pub, bar, or club.
A good host may give him a break and some quality down time as well, so he
would not have to sleep in until noon or 1 PM. Restore some normal life, he
does not have to go out every night!. :-) I am sure he wants to learn about
families and also just relax some evenings. No need to make him feel forced to
visit the nightlife all the time.
So, when are you coming to Tucson, Arizona, USA, Ramon? Wait until after
September! It's too hot now! :-)
Thanks for your reports, pictures, and to all the hosts thus far. I love
reading this and following your journeys. I think it is time for you to cross
the Atlantic!!
Cheers,
Sandra
Name: Sylvia, Peter and Richard Beaumont
Country: North Berwick, Scotland, UK
Sent: 12.42 AM - 7/15 2001
Hi Ramon
Thank you for visiting us for a day in North Berwick, our lives are richer for
meeting you and it was sad to see you leave so soon. I hope you enjoyed what
little you saw of our town, but at least you were able to catch up with your
reports.
I have just made up this little poem, sent by email, perhaps you could add it
to your North Berwick day!
I hope you will remember us as we will remember you with great fondness.
With much love and Good Luck
Sylvia, Peter and Richard Beaumont
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Glasgow, Scotland (UK)
Sent: 8.30 PM - 7/14 2001
Mmm, Nina, it wil take ages before I can translate that Korean article word by
word... I will just wait the rest of my life until world.altavista.com can
translate complete pages from Korean into English...
Name: Nina
Country: Panama
Sent: 8.18 PM - 7/14 2001
Ramon,
Have you tried these Korean/English translation sites?
http://www.sigmainstitute.com/koreanonline/dictionary.shtml
http://www.ectaco.co.uk/online/diction.php3?&lang=22
Either that or wonder for the rest of your life what was said about you in the
newspaper article.
Also, hope that they said something good about you :-)
Name: Nina
Country: Panama
Sent: 8.05 PM - 7/14 2001
LSOM
Hello. “if you look backwards, life can be understood”
This may be true for some, but I’ve known some people who still can’t
understand their life, from the past or now in the present.
How about this one?
"Yesterday is history. Tomorrow; a mystery, and today is a gift, that's
why we call it the present".
Can you name senses other than the 6 biological ones? I can think of
“intuition” as being a sense and of course “common sense” How about you?
What are the 9 principals?
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: North Berwick, Scotland (UK)
Sent: 3.11 PM - 7/14 2001
Hi Chad,
I don't know what happened, I only unsuscribe mailinglist members if they ask
for it. It could have been an error by my mailinglist provider Coollist.com,
but I doubt that. You can easily suscribe again.
Regards,
Ramon.
Name: Chad
Country: usa
Sent: 10.12 AM - 7/14 2001
Hey Ramon,
why did I get an email saying "congrats" , I had unsubscribed to your
"mailing list" I didnt "unsubscribe ....did you?
this is my first time on here , and I know your busy , just wondered ...dont
really bother me ,has anyone else had this , it could be a glitch , but we are
looking forward to seeing you when you get here Ramon .
Name: LSOM : Leonard Stephen Ondu Majakil
Country: Malaysia
Sent: 7.43 AM - 7/14 2001
Yes and indeed a journalistic question here. (Where is RAMON?)- No clue and no
idea, only equation: TIME + SPACE + 6th SENSE + 9 Principles of Living
_______________________________________________________
Ramon, we are learning and improving as time passes by.
Life must go on.
(LSOM : Lets Show Our Move/Manuerve.)
Name: Bret
Country: USA
Sent: 7.10 AM - 7/14 2001
Do I dare mention Deidre, in fear of a backlash, or thrashing for that manner.
Charlene and Alan,
Very well put. If I could do better I would, but I can't, so thank you for your
comments. Hopefully this will put to bed the beating of a "dead
horse"
I wish the best to Deidre and her quest "not to be bothered anymore"
As it will be a blessing to us all.
Ramon,
Do you travel with a laptop?...........(just kidding, joke hahaha) Keep up the
great reports, I'm learning lots!!!!
Name: Acadia
Country: USA
Sent: 5.02 AM - 7/14 2001
Good question Ramon. Where ARE you?
To those who have opinions about Ramon's journey (pro or con)I must add my two
cents here. I have learned that all people cannot like all others. Ramon is
bound to have some rub him the wrong way just as he is bound to do the same to
some of his hosts. That is part of the adventure isn't it? He hasn't put up a
list of requirements for hosts, save for an internet connection, so who knows
if everyone will be compatable when the time comes. I hope that all will at
least wish him godspeed. :o)
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: mmm, where am i?
Sent: 3.07 AM - 7/14 2001
Today I am featured in a Korean newspaper (http://tour.ddanzi.com/17/tr17_9902.htm).
Is there anyone that can provide me an English translation by email? I am
unfortunately not really skilled in my Korean language... :-)
Thanx, Ramon.
Name: Charlene
Country: USA
Sent: 7.55 PM - 7/13 2001
Deidre,
I KNOW Ramon wasn’t your guest. He was your friend’s guest. But you go on about
it as if he had been your guest too, you were talking about give and take and
hospitality, plus you added a few insults about him. If you find this whole
thing stupid and upsetting, then why did you start up with it? Yes, I think you
better forget about it before you go nuts.
Name: Robert
Country: Belgium
Sent: 2.04 PM - 7/13 2001
Well Deidre, you really know how to go on, don't you? You don't like this project,
you've said it a couple of times, so get out of here then!
Name: Deirdre
Country: Ireland
Sent: 1.27 PM - 7/13 2001
Charlene,
Is this intentional or do you REALLY keep missing the point???!!
Ramon was not my guest, I just happened to be in the company and felt I had a
right of response. To be quite honest I find this whole thing stupid and
upsetting and I really could not be bothered anymore - it's really something
I'd prefer to forget about so off with you Ramon and enjoy the rest of your trip.
Name: Jackie
Country: Donaghadee, Northern Ireland
Sent: 1.17 PM - 7/13 2001
It was great to watch Ramon travelling on Ulster Television, where to and why
etc. rather than watching local M.P.s like Paisley and Adams, etc.
Sent: 12.55 PM - 7/13 2001
LSOM, please just write your name.
Name: LSOM
Country: Malaysia
Sent: 5.01 AM - 7/13 2001
To whom it may concern,
"Without computers one cannot escape from ignorance and stupidity."
(KIM JONG IL has been quoted as warning)
What's common sense here is not common sense in Pyongyang. Kim Jong Il loves to
surf the web, while his people can barely stay afloat. Does anyone out there
have Kim Jong Il's e-mail address? Maybe you could send him a message.
To NINA of Panama,
Lets begin with the '20 years from now game' by Mark Twain. Please response.
RAMON,
Thanks for the corner and safe journey.
Name: Karen
Country: USA _ TEXAS
Sent: 4.02 AM - 7/13 2001
Ramon,
I have to agree with Charlene and Alan! Southern hospitality is famous around
here, of course, we are also raised to be very concious of our guests comfort.
There are plenty of people like us out there, and I think (for the most part)
that Ramon is meeting plenty of them!
I for one certainly appreciate Ramon really telling us about his visits and not
"sugar-coating" anything. It isn't going to be all wines and roses!
Keep on keepin' on Ramon and best wishes -
Name: Laurens
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 3.48 AM - 7/13 2001
I totally agree with your Brendan Behan quote on July 9! Keep the spirit, Ramon
Name: Charlene
Country: USA
Sent: 10.56 PM - 7/12 2001
Deirdre,
From the several messages written by you and Fiona on this messageboard.
It makes me see very clearly now that Ramon has done nothing wrong but tell the
truth.
The big problem with both of you, is that it embarrasses you that he wrote the
truth on his report.
On his website it says “I will stay with you and write about it” and that’s
just what he did. But since it doesn’t sound good to you, you want him to
remove it. I hardly see that Ramon was taking advantage of your hospitality.
He spent more time out of your home than in it. When you all finally got home
in the wee hours of the morning, he had to go up and stay in Niamh’s room.
Alan MacDonald, you couldn’t have said it better. I was also raised to treat
guest in the best way possible. Usually when you invite someone to your place,
a host gives more than he/she takes, that’s the ideal of being a good host. To
expect a guest to reciprocate equally does not make sense. I don’t see where the
barter/give and take system has anything to do with all this such as Deirdre
has mentioned.
Ramon, there are many nice people like Alan MacDonald in this world.
Name: Alan MacDonald
Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 6.16 PM - 7/12 2001
Hi,
[Preface -> This is all /my/ personal opinion, I am not preaching!]
I have to say, when Ramon came along, that I was delighted that he was staying
with me. I was more worried that he might find fault with me or my hospitality
than that he might be 'taking advantage'.
I mean, my place is not exactly large, and I didn't have an internet connection
'on site', it was at a friends house.
But as far as I am concerned, he didn't 'take advantage'. He was a great guest,
interesting to talk to. I entertained and took care of him as best as I could,
and sent him on his way. I vastly enjoyed the whole time.
But, I did it in my own way. I didn't bring him to pubs, because I'm not a pub
goer. There is nothing wrong with pubs, it's just I don't do that much. I do
visit pubs with my friends every now and then, but I don't really go that
often. I'm much more of a stay-at-home, or visit cinema type of guy, and I'm
assuming that that's part of what Ramon's journey is about. Meeting other
people and seeing the differences in how people live. So we had a party at my
place, some good friends came over, I cooked Jambalaya, we watched a few DVD's,
(after a mad voting session on what to watch, talk about herding cats *grin*),
had a few drinks, and had a good time.
The bottom line on all this as far as I am concerned is the concept of
'hospitality'. The needs of the guest are very important, and as much as
possible should be done to make them welcome and comfortable. I freely admit I
have what some people would consider archaic views on this, the whole concept
of the 'honoured guest'. You have to always be conscious of their needs, and
make sure that you take care of anything they need.
I dunno, I'm just like that. It's the way I was raised.
Please don't anyone take this up the wrong way, this is just my own opinion,
and how /I/ do things.
rgds
Alan
Name: Melinda
Country: USA
Sent: 3.09 PM - 7/12 2001
Ramon, Your slacking! I can see all these wonderfully interesting pictures, but
no story. You gave the excuse that you don't have time, but I think that you
should make the time to place things on the website. That's the idea right, for
you to stay at people's houses and then write about the stay on the internet?
Can't wait for you to come visit the states. Hope you find time.
Name: Deirdre
Country: Ireland
Sent: 12.29 PM - 7/12 2001
For Charlene,
Sorry I didn't see your message before responding to James. If you must know -
that was my first message as I had been away and not viewing the site so please
forgive me if I too just wanted to put my say on record! But I hope you will
also take my point in my last message to James. And by the way it's not about
losing ground - the more dirt you throw etc - how about you shouldn't give it
if you can't take it back!!
Name: Deirdre
Country: Ireland
Sent: 12.25 PM - 7/12 2001
For James in the Netherlands aswell.
I would be quite willing to let it go but if Ramon can trash us like he did and
leave his comments on the website - is it fair that he continues to delete our
comments because he doesn't like what we say. People new to the site will read
what he wrote about us but not what we had to say in return - so either he
deletes what he said or leaves our comments there also. I think this is only
fair but no doubt this comment will be deleted the minute he sees it aswell. Child!
Name: James
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 10.08 AM - 7/12 2001
The more I hear from Deidre et al, the more I support Ramon. It seems clearer
and clearer that she is the one with the problem, and not Ramon. I can not
believe that it has carried on this long ! Give it a rest and let the other
hosts have their say !!
Ramon - I hope you are having a great time ! Regards
from all of us back home. (And no I have never met Ramon in person).
Name: LSOM
Country: Malaysia
Sent: 7.36 AM - 7/12 2001
Specially to NINA of PANAMA,
"Life can be understood by looking backward but it must be tried by
looking forward".
RAMON,
Thanks, keep up your good works.
LSOM as always.
Name: Charlene
Country: USA
Sent: 12.37 AM - 7/12 2001
Deirdre,
AGAIN?? Boy you don’t know when to stop. You said you were a grown up and that
you can handle it. Things were said and done 11 days ago and you’re still at
it.
Remember: The more dirt you throw, the more ground you lose.
Name: Deirdre
Country: Ireland
Sent: 10.59 PM - 7/11 2001
Hi, I am the other one from that night in Cork when Ramon was so tired he
almost fell asleep on the street. Just a few points (rather than pints!!) It
WAS in fact the beginning of my night out as I had left a retirement do earlier
and joined the others at the race track at around midnight so the drink in the
Long Valley was in fact my first drink - so sorry Ramon!!! Also, I can
understand Ramon being tired but I do have a couple of issues. I love the
concept of travelling around the worlds experiencing different people and
cultures and availing of their hospitality and food but consuming alcohol and
smoking others cigarettes and then behaving like a spoiled child when you've
had enough fun and want to go home is not good enough. For centuries people
have lived by the barter/give and take system but Ramons journey does not seem
to be about meeting different people and cultures but more about how to meet
and take advantage of people's good will and generosity.
I don't mean to sound harsh but I think for the trip that is involved a person
of a different mindset to Ramon would be required to make it sucessful.
Personally I have no problem with what he said about me - I'm a grown up and I
can handle it, just like I can handle walking the streets of Cork City - NEW
YORK IT'S NOT!!!!
Name: Carlos Alberto Teixeira
Country: Brazil, Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana
Sent: 10.46 PM - 7/11 2001
Dear Ramon. I always send you good energies, for your journey is a blessed one.
You are an example for us all. Please read your mailbox, because we need some
high-resolution pictures of you to be published in our newspaper here in Rio.
You are getting pretty famous down here, did you know? Well, take care, buddy.
-- c.a.t.
Name: Marbella
Country: Northern Ireland
Sent: 9.48 PM - 7/11 2001
Wow hunky guy on Ulster Television!
Can't I join you?
Love,
Marbella.
Name: Gianfranco
Country: Roma,Italy
Sent: 5.19 PM - 7/11 2001
Thanks,Ramon,from all the "GIAFILAR" comunity......We are travelling
with you,me in particular,(I have not summer holiday this year),anyway if you
came in Roma I can "Let you stay for a day" at my home,you are
welcome (maybe you can help me at work :)...) Regards to all .........Please,no
comment on my scolastic english......Spaghetti Forever
Name: Carol Fitzpatrick
Country: N. Ireland
Sent: 11.27 AM - 7/11 2001
Hi Ramon,
Greetings from Dundrum. Hope you made it to Belfast alright. You made the front
page of our local newspaper, The Mourne Observer today as well as a big piece
and a photo on page 14. Try to get your hands on a copy in Belfast today. It
was an absolute pleasure having you to stay. To anyone reading this, I'd
recommend that you invite Ramon into your home. You'll be enriched by the
accounts of his experiences and it's very exciting to be a part of this global
project.
Cheers,
Carol, Terry, Ciara & Katy.
Name: shaun
Country: Ireland
Sent: 11.24 AM - 7/11 2001
WALTER!!! Yikes , dont you know Ramon goes ballistic if anyone puts their email
here , thats in case we get together and give our own opinion on himself!
Bet next I look here it will be gone as will this message ..delEted or xxxxx
job!
Good luck on your travels RAMON
RE FROM RAMON: Anybody is free to give your opinion about me or this project on
this messageboard, but just say your things with a good argument, especially if
you are going negative. Those who don't give arguments only dare to say things
(mostly) anonymous and just like to provoke. Which I just discourage. And hey -
it's JUST a message board...
Name: walter
Country: france
Sent: 9.38 AM - 7/11 2001
hi Ramon! hope you are allright!
can you send me maud and samuel's adress in saint ouen please? the newest
street fashion magazine is out and i want to send them their free copy.
thank you very much, and hope to see you again once in paris - the guest room
is waiting.
greetings to everybody
walter
walter@streetfashion.org
Name: Brian
Country: South Africa
Sent: 6.36 AM - 7/11 2001
Hey all
Try to keep within the spirit of this project. We all read the messageboard,
and it seems that there are lots of negative messages. This world is full of
those already, just watch any news program.
Let's try to keep positive here. Ramon is doing an incredible thing. Not only
learning about life in other countries, but also teaching the rest of us too.
Keep going Ramon. Focus on the positive messages, experiences, and people, and
use their inspiration to keep you strong.
Ramon, we still want to see you here in South Africa in a month or three.
All the best
Brian
PS I like your quote about life and toilet paper.
Name: C.B.
Country: USA
Sent: 10.44 PM - 7/10 2001
How about yahoo.com??? I don't send spam mail, and it's not hotmail who sends
spam mail, it is certain people who do.
Country: Ireland
Sent: 8.06 PM - 7/10 2001
Probably Hotmail is know for all spamming mails? Just try another mailbox like
gmx.co.uk or something.
Name: C.B.
Country: USA
Sent: 7.16 PM - 7/10 2001
Ramon,
May I ask, why can’t I send you an email to your ramon@letmestayforaday.com
address?
My letters are returned to me with the following explanation:
“The recipient does not accept mails from hotmail.com over foreign mailservers”
Name: Niamh
Country: Cork
Sent: 5.17 PM - 7/10 2001
Ron, is that an invite?
Name: toni
Country: stray scot in ireland
Sent: 5.17 PM - 7/10 2001
hey ramon,
just to say thanks- my mother downloaded one of the photos of me & was well
impressed to see someone thinks i'm a very nice girl (grin). i haven't seen her
for about 6 months so she had probably forgotten what i look like
sien jou
toni
ps ronnie fernandez are you inviting niamh to go visit?
Name: rebecca
Country: ireland
Sent: 5.00 PM - 7/10 2001
There is obviously two sides to this story and we will never know the whole
truth but enough allready, Shit happens!
Lets just enjoy the rest of the journey where ever it may lead!
Name: Pete
Country: Northern Ireland
Sent: 6.23 PM - 7/9 2001
Hi Ramon, Hope the media has not put you off staying for a while in Northern
Ireland - I can gaurantee you will enjoy your visit. If you are staying with
locals they will be able to advise you on where, and where not to go, and you
will be as safe if not safer than in many other parts of the world. Hope to see
you if you stop off in Larne
Cheers
Pete
Name: Journo Jim
Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 5.39 PM - 7/9 2001
Good man , Ramon!
You made it all the way to Northern Ireland! you could have picked a better
time of year, of course, as it is always tense there around mid-July, but do
enjoy yourself and enjoy the countryside and the people, both of which are
mostly beautiful and not like the media image of terror and war.
Northern Ireland is possibly the most maligned country in Europe. I just hope
that by turning up during the marching season, it does not spoil your enjoyment
of a strange and special place.
Catch you later,
Jim
Name: Nicole Bourque
Country: Canada
Sent: 4.58 PM - 7/9 2001
Bravo Ramon. I am a 62 year old grandma from Montréal, Québec, which is the
only french province in Canada. I enjoy reading you everyday adventure in the
world. I like your quotings on life, you are a very bright young man. I
wouldn't mind having you for a son. I hope you will visit us in Québec. Happy
travelling.. Bon voyage!!!!!!!
Name: Quirine
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 11.19 AM - 7/9 2001
Hi Ramon,
ff in het nederlands hoor. je hebt echt een te gekke site en ik wens je nog
veel plezier en zal zeker je reis blijven volgen!
I was stunned by the idea of you
walking for 6 hours through London! ramon, enjoy every minute of this wonderful
time. and keep in mind: 'make new friend, but keep the old' do not forget about
your friends back here in this "kikkerlandje"!!
Name: Sophie
Country: Brussels, Belgium
Sent: 10.54 AM - 7/9 2001
Dear Ramon,
You are doing great! Stay yourself, believe in yourself and have fun. Please
ignore dumb messages because when you stayed with me I noticed no arrogance
whatsoever.
And have these people never gotten drunk before - they should just get a life!
Take care of yourself ok? And if you ever need another place to say here, you
are more than welcome to come back.
Kindest
regards,
Sophie
Name: Nina
Country: Panama
Sent: 1.25 AM - 7/9 2001
"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you
didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away
from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream.
Discover.-- Mark Twain.
Name: Bret
Country: USA
Sent: 1.10 AM - 7/9 2001
Andy in Heath Hays,UK RIGHT ON!! I'm enjoying every bit of Ramons travels and
learning lots along the way. Sad to see we have a bunch of whiners here in the
USA. Just ignore them and they'll go away.
Question for Ramon: How many miles do you expect to get out of one pair of
shoes? Just curious. Keep on truckin Ramon.
Name: Larry
Country: Canada
Sent: 12.59 AM - 7/9 2001
What a fantastic idea Ramon! I have been on your site for over an hour (I have
a 1440 modem) and will come back to spend a few more hours there. Very
interesting stuff. Adventure IS ALIVE and well in the year 2001!
All the best!
Name: Marcello
Country: Zürich,Switzerland,Europe(just for the US)
Sent: 8.11 PM - 7/8 2001
Hi Ramon, hi all of you, hanging on the messageboard.
I think Ramon is doin' a great thing.
Enjoy your trip and keep in touch with all the nice spots you reach!
"the
masel"
Name: Andy
Country: Heath Hayes, UK
Sent: 7.38 PM - 7/8 2001
Its been a while since I communicated Ramon, so Hi! Mom & dad say Hi too!
How are you enjoying Ireland? I would just like to say to any cynics out there,
like the Yanks previously referred to, that you have no idea what Ramon is like
until you have met him so lay off him! For your information, he was the model
guest and his company was a pleasure. He was a guest in our house, but he still
offered to do things and always left things as he found them. Sorry if I am
going on a bit but I feel very aggravated that anyone can criticise him. Also,
it was said that he may be getting caught up in all the media attention and
'stardom', but that is simply not the case and, anyway, who wouldn't? I just
wish people on this Earth would stop being so negative and always looking for
negatives. This concept is ingenious and extremely positive, why don't you look
at it as such and not pick faults?!?! Right, now i've got that off my chest I
would just like to say Good luck for the rest of your travels and I hope to see
you again someday. Regards,
Andy
Name: Jasper
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 6.27 PM - 7/8 2001
To Merlin, United Kingdom
Thanks for you advise, no more errors :)
Name: Alex
Country: Thailand
Sent: 6.16 PM - 7/8 2001
I have made my invitation to you. I don't think you can make your way
here(South East Asia) by this year.Anyway i really hoping to see you here
staying at my house and listen to your story,if you can make it here.Maybe i
can have the chance to meet you in a few years time.Good Luck
Name: Pat
Country: UK
Sent: 12.38 PM - 7/8 2001
My final point on the matter that Ramon is free-loading and lazy is that this is
what the project is meant to be, surely? It's slightly tongue-in-cheek much
like the one of Ramon's favorite American sites:
sendmeadollar.com. There is something refreshingly honest about that American
sense of forthrightness and humor.
Just a note to Onno Vandelaak - I think she meant to
write "craic" [meaning good fun] instead of "crack" which
has a different meaning.
Take care all of you and look after Ramon.
P
Name: Onno Vandelaak
Country: Ireland
Sent: 10.09 AM - 7/8 2001
To all future hosts.........
Ramon realy behaved himself!!!!!! and was great crack
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Ireland
Sent: 11.07 AM - 7/7 2001
The location list has not been updated since April 29 'as it says'. New
invitations go directly into my database, typing them on the site will take too
much time. I am still looking for a solution.
Ramon.
Name: Jean Mier-Bölinger
Country: Germany
Sent: 7.49 AM - 7/7 2001
We confirmed our invitation yesterday but do not see it
on the locations list. Has my son confirmed it correct
ly? Please advise.
Name: DD
Country: Ireland
Sent: 3.37 AM - 7/7 2001
Hey Raymond,
I think I saw you swimming yesterday, July 6, at Dog's beach. Was that you?
Name: Merlin
Country: United Kingdom
Sent: 11.38 PM - 7/6 2001
To Jasper in The Netherlands:
The latest service pack for IE5.5 (update) changes your Advanced Internet
Options. Do stop the bugging-erros, go to 'tools' - 'internet options' -
'advanced' and make sure you have the "Disable script debugging"-box
checked. This will end all the errors you get.
I wish you happy surfings!
Name: Bret
Country: USA
Sent: 11.25 PM - 7/6 2001
Ramon,
Thanks for the link to this messageboard. I'm sorry I missed out on all the
flack over the June 30th report. I went back to reread it and I feel empathy
for you and your host. It's the alcohol. I hope things have been
"smoothed" over with Niamh and Fiona. They really seem like great
people. As are all the people that invite you into their homes. It really
speaks well of humanity, especially in these selfish times. This is a great
learning experience for all. The opinions of others, either rational or
irrational help us learn about one another. This is all Good Ramon! Keep on
truckin.
Name: Jasper
Country: Ntherlands
Sent: 11.06 PM - 7/6 2001
I just installed the latest service pack for IE5.5 from the Microsoft website,
and somehow I get a lot of error messages when opening you site? something
about a incorrect end of line... ";"....
What should I do?
PS: Sometimes I can't read your reports 'cos of these errors.
Name: Sandi
Country: Canada
Sent: 8.05 PM - 7/6 2001
Ramon,
I've enjoyed "sharing" your trip since you started. Your reports are
so much fun to read BECAUSE your English is not quite 100% - I love that! And I
appreciate that it must take alot of extra effort to do this in English instead
of your mother tongue.
I've got to get back to work, but I'll continue to follow your journey. Take
care! (and watch out for those wild women - they'll get you in trouble every
time!)
Name: Juut
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 5.04 PM - 7/6 2001
Hee, Ramon, you're still doing great! Go for it and I know you won't let
anybody interrupt your way of life. Let them be. You are strong enough, I know
that for sure! So, enjoy every minute and please take care. Lots'o'love,
juut
Name: Neutral
Country: UK
Sent: 10.57 AM - 7/6 2001
This was hilarious Ramon ...."Thas still no answer to me question. If yer
travelling the world, whot the feck a ye doing in fecking Coachford?"
Name: Rebecca
Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 10.37 AM - 7/6 2001
Hea Ramon,
I don't know how long your planning to spend in Ireland but if your still here
you really should make your way to the Beach Party at Donnabate beach, Dublin
on 4th August, there always a great experience.
Take
Care!
Name: GurkForceOne
Country: Italy
Sent: 9.25 AM - 7/6 2001
hi there
just a probably useless word to say something to a bunch of frustrated
'cowboys' so patriotic with the fact that no US citizens would accept Ramon
supposed arrogance (thing that i obviously do not believe)...
Why the hell do u spend time typing silly and so naif critics on Ramon's
supposed arrogance (by the way do u know him so well, or you've read just a
line on one of his reports?). What I mean is that you must have enjoyed alot
this forum and these reports: finally you had a chance to take out all that
rage you have (where u mistreated by your mum?). If you did not liked what
Ramon said or wrote during an hangover, why didn't you just skip the line or
change website instead of taking the time to ruin someone's experience 'round
the globe?... I mean I'm really looking forward to know what are the reasons
that take all of this people to write about something that they do not care
about (in fact you want him back home) On the first place you practically say
that maybe Ramon got too much into this 'star' thing and should be 'more an
individual' and then you say that his words are a public offense and shouldn't
have been written on this website (like as he was a public figure); if you
understand what I mean, don't you think it is a bit of contraddiction. It is
all Ramon's personal experience 'round the world and his reports are personal
opinions and experiences, so why take the time to spend some words against him.
If you do not like it, well move out of the way, this is his website, not your
baby-pool and I personally find interesting to read opinions on places he goes
to and not 'public politically correct declarations on country well approved
general situation'. On the other hand I'd like to say that you're saying that
u're speaking for the whole US (and I found this a bit offensive), while I know
so many people from NY and LA that surely will at least be able to speak in a
proper manner and that are wonderfull individuals who do not spend all of their
time ruining other people experiences by spreading negative words based on NO
knowledge of the person.
As u USerians would say: 'Don't give me that folks!'
Enjoy life and be interested in other opinions and cultures, it will make your
life better!
Lots of love XXX kiss kiss kiss :)
P.S.: America is a big continent not only USA
GurkForceOne
And by the way I expect you all at the next G8
Name: Jeanne L.
Country: France
Sent: 12.27 AM - 7/6 2001
Ramon, I enjoy your reports very much! Everyday at lunch I try to keep up with
your traveling, it's really great reading. I am not going on a holiday for a
long time, so I luv it!
Great question for all the message posters here:
"If a trainstation is where the train stops, what is a work station?"
Au
revoir!
Name: Nina
Country: Panama
Sent: 12.15 AM - 7/6 2001
I know people’s feelings were hurt. Everyone was, and is attacking each other
with bitter words. But you know what? It’s a shame, it’s a big shame. There are
so many people in this world who are starving, who are homeless, jobless, who
have no freedom. And here are people, who have the luxury to even have a
computer, saying all these mean things day after day.
Why don’t we take a moment to give thanks to God for the home you live in, the
food on your table, the job you have. Why waste time dwelling over something
that has already happened and cannot be changed? Look around you and see the
lovely positive things in your life.
Instead of wasting energy being mad and angry, do something nice for someone who
needs help. And you will see how much better you will all feel. Relax and take
it easy. Sometimes life is to short. Please, let’s stop all the attacks, bitter
words and arguing. I know you can do it.
Thank
you.
Name: LYNCH
Country: IRELAND
Sent: 11.33 PM - 7/5 2001
HI RAMON ,IF YA WANT I'LL BE YOUR CADDY.I'M SURE YOU GET PISSED OFF WITH THAT
BIG RUG-SACK,,,,,,,,,I NEEED A HOLIDAY!
Name: Karen
Country: Texas - USA
Sent: 10.44 PM - 7/5 2001
Ramon - your trip out to the islands was great. Your reports are getting better
all the time - it's like we are there with you! And the photos of Ireland are
just gorgeous. I hope I'll get to visit there someday.
Take your time and enjoy it - like you said this is the time of your life - why
rush it? There are so many people to meet and places to see!
Name: Isabelle
Country: Canada
Sent: 7.19 PM - 7/5 2001
Ramon,
I Think what you're doing is great. But i really have to wonder, at this rythm,
how long is it going to take you to travel all around the world? Seems to me
you stay too long in the country you visit. On another subjet, i have to say
your english
look fine to me. I know it's not always easy when english is not your marternal
language( my maternal language is french).So you continue and do your best and
forget the rest. Good luck!!
Isabelle
Name: Sharlini
Sent: 4.42 PM - 7/5 2001
You said it, Belinda! I think Ramon has every right to do what he wants with
his messageboard. The Irish horse is dead, let's stop flogging it. Live and
learn.
Name: Adam
Country: Australia
Sent: 4.27 PM - 7/5 2001
I've just found out about this site and what you are doing and I have to say
what a great idea.
I've been going through the old reports and the one where you were on air with
kiss fm in london was
brilliant.
Don't listen to the people saying bad things about you as they are just just
wishing they were in your shoes.
Just remember you can only please some of the people some of the time, Not all
of the people all of the time.
Stay safe and don't do anything I wouldn't do
Name: Belinda
Country: Rotterdam
Sent: 4.14 PM - 7/5 2001
I think Ramon has all rights to remove certain messages from his messageboard.
I found some of them pretty insulting, so Ramon you have my vote!
We all should be glad Ramon has put up this messageboard anyway.
Now stop bugging around about that little thing and enjoy the rest.
Name: John McCaffrey
Country: Coachford, Co Cork
Sent: 3.56 PM - 7/5 2001
My fault Alan, I have no internet connection
at home
Name: Alan MacDonald
Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 3.53 PM - 7/5 2001
Hi,
Hey Ramon, just wondering when you are putting up some more reports.
Not too busy drying dishes, I hope!
[duck]
[grin]
rgds,
Alan
Name: Kieran
Country: Donegal
Sent: 12.53 PM - 7/5 2001
Can't believe that reports are disappearing from your message board don't you
think you leave the messages and not try and monopolise opinions??????
Name: rebecca
Country: ireland
Sent: 10.11 AM - 7/5 2001
Well said Pat, I too hope that Ramon dosen't feel the need to censor his
reports.
Name: sonja
Country: austria
Sent: 9.54 AM - 7/5 2001
i have read your comment on fairness and your english in your report of monday
the 5th july. I hope it doesen´t get too bad because i know from several
internet forums that there are some not so nice people in the net. their only
hobby is to comment everything and search for failures or make a good thing
bad. i hate these people because i still believe that the internet can be used
to make a better word. But as a person i don´t know has said: "the
internet is a living picture of the whole society - and so as in real life in
internet there are also bad people, bad thoughts, jalouse people...."
so don´t worry, the people who are telling nice things aren´t so loud as the other
ones but they are the majority!!!!
hugs and kisses
sonja
Name: L.S.O.M.
Country: Malaysia
Sent: 4.21 AM - 7/5 2001
I learned to wash dishes when I am three, get
drunk at the age of 6, play politics at 7 and
still wondering what's going on the other side
of the world. This site teaches me about PEOPLE
presently probing into Ireland. Do not censored
any article but L.et S.ynchronize O.ur M.ind for
better reception.
Ramon, Malaysia welcomes you. Take care always.
Name: Nina
Country: Panama
Sent: 3.54 AM - 7/5 2001
Ramon, your july 2 report was very very nice, and very descriptive. It made me
feel as if I were there. And the pictures are just so beautiful.
Thank you for sharing all this with me and everyone.
Have fun and stay safe and happy.
Name: Menno
Country: Holland
Sent: 8.16 PM - 7/4 2001
To Patricia:
Ramon stayed with a good friend of mine in Holland.
As his guest Ramon did not have to wash the dishes, he officially only asks for
a meal and a place to stay. He is treated as a GUEST!
If people offer him more, can't you read his appreciation for it between the
lines?
Go, Ramon, Go!
PS: If those people are so bothered by Ramon's writing, why do they keep coming
back here all the time? Just to create discussions? For them I'd really say:
GET A LIFE yourself!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Galway, Ireland
Sent: 7.47 PM - 7/4 2001
Please don't use this messageboard to provoke other people's culture, just
reply on my writings, correct me if I'm wrong. We don't need to take politics
this far.
Got to go, I just voluntered to do some dishes here.
;-)
Name: Tammy Alexander
Sent: 7.41 PM - 7/4 2001
Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
And remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly & clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull & ignorant;
they too have their story.
Avoid loud & aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain & bitter;
for always there will be greater
and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing future of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity & disenchantment
it is perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit
to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue & loneliness.
Beyond wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees & the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labours & aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life
keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery & broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
~
Max Ehrmann, 1927 ~
Name: Pat
Country: UK
Sent: 7.35 PM - 7/4 2001
Paricia - that is quite strong stuff you accuse Ramon
of. Now, do you really know he hasn't offered to wash the dishes?
It might be true, and it appears to be the case, that
Ramon has been overwhelmed and seduced by all the media
attention. This is perfectly normal - it's hard to resist the full-on star
treatment he has been given: ie, limos to and from the studio, adulation from
the
presenter and audience, free meals at top restaurants, etc.
I guess that the grim reality of then hanging around with ordinary people
getting drunk on a Saturday night
would seem a bit tedious and annoying.
However, everybody - even those who proclaim to have the toughest skin - is
sensitive, and the criticism that Ramon is getting now in Ireland must be
shocking
and embarrasing. The whole world is basically reading how he supposedly
"insulted" his hosts.
I'm sure he would like to turn back the clock.
Can't we find it within us to forgive him?
Or is he our own "personal Jesus"...to be crucified for his
outspokeness and honesty?
I also seen as one who is embittered with my own country, ie, Ireland because I
dare to speak out the failings I find within it.
Failings such as: for such a spiritual and Catholic country, it seems few
people have the desire to show compassion and forgiveness.
I just called it small-town minds.
And it's that very reason that I'm so glad that I live in Britain. Frankly, the
mentality of the place would send me crazy.
Don't worry Ramon - you are only human.
It seems that this is a sin in many peoples' eyes.
P.
Name: Paricia Fagan
Country: USA
Sent: 7.01 PM - 7/4 2001
Ramon's true personality becomes more apparent with each report. If he's not
catered to and pampered he insults his hosts. Hosts, has he ever offered to
help wash the dishes? I think not, since he is still in bed until 1pm unless he
has a media interview.
Please, keep Ramon in Europe
Name: Peter Brown
Country: US
Sent: 5.03 PM - 7/4 2001
You've got a very good idea
Name: Fiona (neglectful host NOT!)
Country: Ireland
Sent: 4.59 PM - 7/4 2001
Already there, told me I don't have a problem and said not to waste their
time!! Seems I have too much energy from all the travelling with my job!
Anyway, on to bigger and better things and people.
Until we never meet again
Fiona
Name: toni
Country: stray scot in ireland
Sent: 2.17 PM - 7/4 2001
hey there,
glad ramon reasserted his take on irish drinking habits. it was lovely to meet
him even if he didn't want to go rockclimbing with me & on i'd like to add
that when i arrived in Douglas a wee while ago, Niamh & Fiona were the
first two people who "adopted" me & dragged me out to enjoy the
sites of southern ireland (and i'm not particularly high profile in the media).
I later met deirdre in the pub too & i'd say the only problem i had was the
state of my ribs after them making me laugh all night. Being of a celtic nature
myself, alcohol consumption was not a problem & i'm sure that if ramon was
to stay here, with time he'd be able to keep up with the girlies.
Next time we see you mate i expect you'll be drinking us under the table! It's
just like anything in this world, if you want to get better, you just have to
keep practising!
cheers
luv Toni
Name: Pat
Country: UK
Sent: 8.48 AM - 7/4 2001
To Dave (Ireland)
Fair point -
I did think I was discussing wider issues on the strength of what Ramon
experienced on a local level in the country.
Enough is enough, though...
Pat
Name: Thom
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 8.46 AM - 7/4 2001
To all insulted people. 1) Ramon did apoligize.
2) It is very easy to misinterpret printed text,
'cause you don't see the expression of one's face, you
cannot hear the subtleties in one's voice. Two things
which help you in understanding what another means.
And that's the problem with printed text: you can
read a text in many different ways. Furthermore,
English is not Ramon's native language so he does not
know the nuances of the English language to fully
express himself in a correct way.
He was tired, wrote a little uncarefully about that &
upset some people. After that he apologized for that,
and since the Irish are great (Dutch & Irish football
fans get along perfectly!) I know they can accept his apologies.
So please, end this discussion and have fun.
Cheers.
Name: L.S.O.M.
Country: Malaysia
Sent: 8.29 AM - 7/4 2001
Ramon,
Didn't I tell you to travel HEALTHILY. Forget
David Letterman - you are a celebrity yourself
Be a model celebrity.
Forget the negative comments. We are learning
all the time. Welcome to Malaysia.
Name: Melinda
Country: USA
Sent: 9.45 PM - 7/3 2001
Ramon,
I think that it is a good idea if you limit the amount of alchol that you
consume. That is one thing I learned from visiting your country (I wasn't
drunk, but I was high.) Which is not very wise when you are in a different
country where people speak other languages and cultures are just different
period. So I think that it is best just to have your wits about you and enjoy
everything sober.
Country: USA
Sent: 7.36 PM - 7/3 2001
TO EVERYONE OUT THERE WHO HASN’T READ RAMON’S JUNE 1 REPORT.
HE DID APOLOGIZE.
Name: Pat
Country: UK
Sent: 7.33 PM - 7/3 2001
The real question I want Ramon to answer is...
what does he think of a pint of Guinness and has he played the wild rover?
Answers,
please.
Name: simone
Country: usa
Sent: 7.08 PM - 7/3 2001
Hey Ramon - I'm almost sorry that you have a messageboard to hear our feedback.
I'd like to hear what you are experiencing on your travels without you feeling
that you need to "edit" your thoughts in case you offend someone - or
apologize for your feelings. Sometimes you have a bad day. People have to
realize that that was how you felt that day and not take it so personally. My
journals are filled with complaints. Write your truth! Don't let other people's
comments enter your head.
That's my two cents....thanks for taking us along this journey with you.
Name: guess who
Country: USA
Sent: 7.04 PM - 7/3 2001
My gosh! What is wrong with everyone? A July 30 report has put you all into a
fighting frenzy.
Are all Irish people this hot-tempered? Or is it just the ones that are writing
nasty messages here.
See what alcohol can do to people’s brains?
I found nothing offensive about Ramon’s report. And I read it twice. But I do
find offensive what everyone (mostly Irish) are writing on this message board.
To me it didn’t seem like Ramon was criticizing Ireland and all it’s people. He
was just describing an uncomfortable predicament he found himself in one night.
As for the person who said “if in Rome do as the Romans”? Nonsense! I wouldn’t
participate in the yearly Bull Runs in Spain and get my ass sliced. I wouldn’t
dive off a 5,000 foot clift in Hawaii either, just because everyone there does
it? Travelers don’t have to do everything other people do just to be on good
terms. And host shouldn’t expect for their guest to do so either.
Do these gals represent Ireland entirely? I am seeing beautiful pictures of
Ireland on Ramon’s report. Ireland is a very beautiful country. Don’t spoil the
beauty of your country by bad mouthing everyone, including other guest on this
message board.
I think all those proud Patriotic Irish have said enough on here. It’s
beginning to get a bit boring. So change the subject please.
Name: Journo Jim
Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 3.23 PM - 7/3 2001
Pat - nice to see you've rehabilitated your roots. G'wan yeh good t'ing.
Ramon - what's the chance of seeing an occasional round-up of the best of your
experiences? I appreciate that it's extra work, but you could give us a page a
month, or even a page per country on what YOU found best about the place.
People'd appreciate it a lot, I think. You'd be able to recommend the best of a
country based on your experiences to the whole world. It'd be more real than a
guidebook, that's for sure.
so what do you say?
Name: Pat
Country: UK
Sent: 3.07 PM - 7/3 2001
oh - Danny Boy....
Ramon - spoken like a true President...of the Globe?!
I guess the Irish message, as put forward by famous
Celtic band Oasis,is...You Got to Roll With It.
A lot of people say that the Irish and the Italians
are very similar: arguing one minute, best mates the
next. Passionate about life.
May you enjoy the rest of your stay in Ireland.
It will get into you - it will change you.
And if do manage to stay sober - well done!
But always manage to keep smiling.
May the road rise with you,
Pat
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Currently in Ireland
Sent: 2.23 PM - 7/3 2001
Hereby I will like to give a brief statement to explain a few things to my fans
and critics:
- Firstly, I am writing all my communications in English, which is not my
native language and therefore open, on occasion, to miss-interpretation.
If for any reason anybody has been in any way offended by my comments, please
accept my apologies, as this is not my intention.
- Second of all, the spirit of this project is one of global participation on a
goodwill basis and should never drift into areas of cultural or individual
criticism.
So far, as you would appreciate, this has been a huge learning experience as it
is with all the media attention and I hope not to loose sight of the primary
goal, to visit the world.
I rely on you, my Internet audience, to keep me on track and correct me if I go
wrong.
Thank you for your support and I hope you’ll keep on following my journey
around the planet.
Ramon.
Name: Rebecca
Country: Ireland
Sent: 2.02 PM - 7/3 2001
I think your all making a huge deal about last Saturday night. We all know how
much travelling zaps your energy and we've all been in the same situtation as
Ramon at one time or another. Personally I would have looked after my guest,
not by showing him a good time but by respecting his wishes and going home.
Ramon you should slow down or you won't be able to carry on much longer, be
firm with your hosts, they all want to show you a good time and may be inclined
to forget that you've been travelling for a long time and would enjoy taking it
easy for a while. May I also say that I've just returned from the UK where I
noticed "binge drinking" seems to be a lot more popular than here in
Ireland, so less of the stereotypes please. Good luck Ramon, I hope you get to
enjoy Ireland for what it really is, I would recomend that you don't post you
diary messages when hung over as there seems to be a lot of over sensitive
people out there!
Name: Dave
Country: UK
Sent: 1.57 PM - 7/3 2001
Linda and Fiona , I can only say , what an awful way to be treated .I have always
been treated with the utmost respect when I have visited Ireland, and yes you
have troubles , but it seems that despite these you were willing to go out of
your way and LETHIMSTAYFORADAY? OR TWO!
By the way - I am tee-total and this was never a problem to me!
To you RAMON: perhaps you ought to learn to be a little humble, altho I think
that all these messages will simply be wiped off ( as soon as he wakes up ,
that is!)
I wonder how RAMON will take this criticism ??
However it's never too late to change!-and it did cross my mind that maybe he
could have had a bit of sunstroke -being in the sun for three hours on the
train?This mixed with alcohol maybe would not have helped- I dont know, but I
think we should give him another chance to redeem himself!
Name: Pat
Country: UK
Sent: 12.25 PM - 7/3 2001
Can we just agree what the real root of this "problem"
was last Saturday?
I'd say it was alcohol.
Ramon was hungover and feeling tired and a bit moody
(alcohol can make one depressed the next day).
He knows now he shouldn't have drunk again.
He has now decided to steer clear of the drink for the
rest of stay. That's sensible, clever and wise.
He's even apologised for ruffling a few feathers.
What more can he do?
What I don't like is what I'm now seeing - a general desire for him to give up
and go home.
I do kind of get the feeling that a lot of people would love to see Ramon fall
flat on his face. That it would be a bit of a "craic". Yeah,
right....get real.
As Dublin Jim says - let's have a bit of forgiveness, a lot of forgetfulness
and a whole load of positivity.
Name: five of us
Country: USA
Sent: 12.10 PM - 7/3 2001
RAMON, we think, having looked at all the messages on the board and ALL your
"REPORTS" that yes, you have indeed had a good idea, but we think
that somewhere along the way you have have created a lot of heartache in your
words, not good story line, eh? You got a lot of messages WRONG , then writing
about them , and this must make the people feel really bad, when they have no
need to!They have gone out of their way for you .
You got mixed up in some of the places you were supposed to go , making that
person feel as tho it were her fault!It was in fact yours!!
now your in Ireland , and stirring up a real hornets nest !
Forcing people to come to your defence .Like Jim , below -its getting
political.
Basically we think perhaps we agree you SHOULD GO BACK HOME-NOW
Name: Jim
Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 12.09 PM - 7/3 2001
Yeah, the fasionistas are on the prowl in Dublin, that's for sure. But I make a
point of never letting the muppets stop me from having a good time. That's why
Ramon and I ended up in the Olympia theatre - it's oldskool, soulful, relaxed
and honest like you say.
There's still some of it about, but it's in as short supply in Ireland as it is
anywhere else.
I think it's time to hear the positives. I'm keen to know from Ramon where he's
had the best fun, where was the most relaxing place, where the prettiest girls
were, where did he get the best night's sleep, who was his most fascinating
host, the most interesting place he visited, all of that.
What about it, big fella? How about a little best of the month column, or are
you saving all of those revelations up until the end of your big adventure?
To Pat and everyone, peace and love to ya.
Name: Pat
Country: UK
Sent: 11.57 AM - 7/3 2001
Jim - thanks for putting your point across so well.
I must admit that my view of Ireland is coloured by
my family background and the desire to escape too many alcohol-fuelled nights
and fights, my Catholic upbringing, and the right to decide what you do with
your body and with whom.
Ireland is indeed changing, but I also fear it might be for the best. Dublin
just seems to be on the roundabout that London was on in the mid-80s - chasing
its' tail to try and open the most fashionable bar, restaurant, club, whatever.
I personally don't think that is the road to go down either.
I'm trying to find the Ireland I know is there - peaceful, serene, soulful,
relaxed, open and honest.
As you say at the end of your message -
let's forget about the past.
There's no better message than that.
Peace,
Pat.
Name: Jim
Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 11.36 AM - 7/3 2001
Pat, I don't necessarily disagree with your assessment of the Irish as less
tolerant in the areas you mention. But abortion, racism and homosexuality were
not at the core of Ramon's staurday night experience. My experience of Dublin
is that homosexuality is very well tolerated, and my gay friends I think would
agree. Ireland's epxerience of immigration is so new (we were still exporting
people in their thousands until the late 1980s) that the jury is out on how
successfully this country will be at transforming itself into a multicultural
society. Certainly recent events in Oldham etc do not reveal Britain as the
guiding lightr of tolerant nations. As for abortion, it remains the big
radioactive topic in Ireland. A lot of people find the issue a moral problem,
and one has to respect that. I was on the abortion boat that arrived from
Holland recently and my experience was that the 'tolerant' campaigners
attempting to force the issue here.
The hard sell of Ireland of the hundred thousand welcomes I think is a Bord
Failte one. Every country's tourist office promtes its nation abroad. If
anything, the Irish try to live up to it.
Again I agree with you about the influence of the Catholic church, which even
you would have to admit has waned spectacularly in the last 15 years. but it
won't disappear overnight, and my feeling, as someone who is not a member ofthe
church, is that it might be sad for Ireland to go down the purely secular road
of the UK. Beliefs foster community, which Britain lacks in my experience of
living in Manchester, London and Glasgow (which incidentally are all fantastic
towns, people - I'm not dissing them here, just drawing a distinction).
I think that the Ireland you are describing - priest-ridden, insecure and
intolerant is an Ireland that is at least 5 years out of date. One wonders if
you get back over here much these days? You might just be surprised.
And as for the central issue - Ramon was invited to stay in cork by the girls.
On Saturday night there seems to have been a situation which led him to get
upset. None of us were there, so we don't know exactly what happened, and
neither Ramon's report nor the postings from the girls present make it any
clearer, so it is impossible to jusge for sure where fault, if any, lies.
By the sounds of it, the girls were very hospitable, and Ramon certainly
acknowledges this elsewhere in his report and his posting the messageboard.
Whatever really happened on Saturday is probably lost in the mists of time
already, and best forgotten by the lot of us.
Be good everyone...
Name: Dave
Country: Ireland
Sent: 11.24 AM - 7/3 2001
Pat, when you lived in Ireland, exactly which rock did you live under?
Name: Pat
Country: UK
Sent: 11.08 AM - 7/3 2001
Okay - thanks Jim and Peter for your comments.
My point was as follows:
As an Irishman living in the UK, I simply find the UK
more tolerant.
More tolerant of the choice to have an abortion.
Towards homosexuality.
Toward people with a different skin colour.
Towards having the right to say "no" to an alcoholic drink and not
been seen as "odd" or "strange".
I was also questioning the whole heavy sell of Ireland being this country full
of laughing, happy people.
In my experience it can be, but I also find it very
parochial, bigoted, and aggressive.
Maybe it's the weather - a lot of time it's totally grey, dark and miserable.
Maybe it's the over-bearing and hypocritical Catholic Church which is full of
freaks who fiddle with kids - FACT.
Maybe it's the troubled history - the Famine...will it ever be forgotten , I
ask myself?
Ireland can be a leading country in the 21st Century, but maybe it has to shed
the shackles of its' past.
But I go back to the fundamental point I made of this
affair:
True hospitality is making your guest feel totally at ease.
I do feel the girls were excited by being with Ramonand just wanted to show him
a good time. That is a lovely sentiment - but the offence taken when he chose
to write his true feelings were embarrassing.
They, and Ireland as a whole, should be big enough and confident enough to take
a few knocks without taking
offence at everything.
Isn't that the root of a lot of Irelands' current problems (either in the
family home, or on the International stage)?
Name: Carol
Country: UK
Sent: 11.03 AM - 7/3 2001
Ramon, do you ever say sorry when YOU have done something wrong ??If not , now might
be a good time to start, so as you can continue your journey !Having been to
Ireland , I was shown the utmost respect and warm welcome so much so , that I
just NEVER wanted to leave!
I am in total agreement with jouralist Jim.I think you ought to slow down a bit
and make your journey a quality time and not quantity!
Still wish you all the best , and hope this makes a better person of you at end
of it all .Read Rudyard Kipling's ( IF)
Name: Peter J L
Country: USA
Sent: 10.50 AM - 7/3 2001
(Pat from UK )..I actually agree with you re: alcohol problems , but lets not
leave this to Ireland , take a look at a lot of countries !!
I personlly think , he had a little media attention and it went to his head ,
and if he cant say CIVIL things , constructive criticism , he should perhaps -
make his way BACK TO THE NETHERLANDS, as I dont think anyone in USA will stand
for his arrogance, so I think he really ought to go home and learn some manners
man!
I see he was RUDE to the people of South Africa BEFORE he started out!!
I know a few people will be withdrawing their offer to you RAMON - I AM ONE OF
THEM !I think I will offer someone who deserves to be offered a plce to stay !I
shall email you to say forget it !!
Name: Journalist Jim
Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 10.41 AM - 7/3 2001
As the only other person to have spent a saturday night with Ramon in Ireland
so far, I thought I'd intervene in an attempt to inject some sanity back into
this discussion.
Firstly, to Pat who keeps telling us he's Irish but lives in the UK and likes
to abuse the whole country - no one said that Ramon was forcefed alcohol. As a
journalist who specialises in health, I can confirm that the alcoholism,
suicide, domestic assault and depression rates in the UK are across the board
identical, if not slightly higher than in Ireland. And both countries are less
affected by all those issues lower than certain parts of continental Europe.
Keep your self-loathing sentiments to yourself.
Secondly to the girls down in Cork - it must have been gutting to read the
report as it was written. I can imagine that you felt that your hospitality was
totally betrayed. Ramon is a nice guy, but I get the sense that there was more
to Saturday night than has emerged in his report. I suppose you can write it
off to experience. Be careful who you meet over the internet!
To Ramon, this is the problem you have posed yourself as a journalist, doing
this project. If you show the due thanks to people who house you and feed you
and look after you, then perhaps the journalism will be a little banal. Of
course your readers are delighted to see some negative reporting, but how much
of that is respect for your honest opinion and how much is them baying for
controversy and exciting writing? The other consideration is that if you are
negative too often, people will stop inviting you. Who wants to be pilloried
online?
Anyway, best of luck and keep on trucking the lot of you.
I'm outta here...
Name: Pat
Country: UK
Sent: 10.24 AM - 7/3 2001
re: Ramon and his Saturday night
What the Hell is going on? Leave Ramon alone.
He didn't want to shove alcohol down his neck.
For this crime, he is seen as soft, weak and rude.
He also wrote how he felt about the constant
cajoling about how he should be having a "good time"
by his hosts.
Er...excuse ME.
True hospitality means making the guest feel totally at ease - not forcing YOUR
standards on the person.
I get the impression he wanted to just stay in and relax - but that wasn't
respected.
Why does everything revovle around alcohol in Ireland?
Sure, it's a lot of fun - but it also causes
untold damage to the self, families, whole communities.
Ireland is not a happy, carefree country.
Each time I go there I get the over-riding sense of
tension with a people still uneasy with the thought of anything English.
I'm sorry if this offends anybody but as an Irishman
I feel I have,at least, the right to express my opinion.
It's time for Ireland to grow up.
Name: Fiona
Country: Ireland
Sent: 9.53 AM - 7/3 2001
Ramon, alcohol was not a huge aspect of Sat night, we had a three course meal,
we were dancing and you had three pints of Budweiser and one Smineroff Ice -
not exactly grounds for going all wobbly and off centre. Seems to me you got
the heave ho on Friday night and couldn't handle the rejection. You were only
supposed to spend one night, but you wanted to stay two, so that is why I
agreed to be your host on Sat night, it was for my friend and not you. SO THE
CONCEPT OF LET ME STAY FOR A NIGHT IS NOT REALLY WORKING! REACTION FROM RAMON:
I did not ask to stay an extra day, it was offered me because of Sat-night's
dog races.
Name: Linda (Smiley)
Country: Ireland
Sent: 9.46 AM - 7/3 2001
Ramon,
What the hell is up! You are not telling the whole truth as you put it. You
said to me that you were tired and I offered you a bed at my house. I even told
you that I would drop you to Fionas the next day to collect your gear. So don't
put down the Irish hospitality. Everyone on Saturday night couldn't have been
nicer to you and especially Fiona. I know Fiona for the past 2 years and shes
the nicest, friendliest person you could meet. And lets be straight she'd have
to be to put up with an arrogant, selfish person like yourself. I'm fuming,I
can't believe you wrote such a bad report. I was there on Saturday night and
you looked like you were having a great night or is it the way with you, that
what you see is NOT WHAT YOU GET?
Very Disappointed Ramon!
Name: Pat
Country: UK
Sent: 9.34 AM - 7/3 2001
John from Ireland makes some interesting points:
"If you can't get on with the Irish, you DO have a problem"...
Is this really true?
It is true that there is a great tradition of Irish hospitality and
friendliness but it must be said that
the Irish - as much as any other country - can suffer from drinking far too
much alcohol, taking offence at the slightest remark against them, and being
generally
aggressive and using aggression to gain results.
How many fights were there in pubs across Ireland on
Saturday night?
How many wives and girlfriends were abused through the effects of drink?
How many severe mental problems like depression and suicide are caused becasue
of this "great" drinking culture?
On all counts - a LOT when you read the figures.
If Ramon didn't want to drink to excess that should be respected, not
belittled.
He is actually brave, not rude, to write his honest feelings and post them for
all the World to see.
Many people feel the same way.
They are just too scared of offending.
Let me just say that I write this as a Irish man.
Name: John
Country: Ireland
Sent: 8.36 AM - 7/3 2001
RAMON-I have been looking thro a few of of the messages here and also your
reports ...and I do see an element of arrogance ! In one country you said
"men with their crappy cases" not nice ..in another after the lovely
Devon Hotel ...you said of the next place "ah this is better than being
bored " like the last place ...How Rude !
You do KNOW the difference ? You have chose to do what you are doing , without
all these very kind people , you wouldnt be able to do it ?
Sometimes "LEAST SAID SOONEST MENDED"
If you can't get on with the Irish , you DO have a problem!mate!
Name: Jim
Country: Ireland
Sent: 8.00 AM - 7/3 2001
Read about your night out with Fiona, seems your pretty much of a nancy boy
when it comes to having a few pints....should have stuck with children's drink,
like water
Name: Brian
Country: South Africa
Sent: 6.32 AM - 7/3 2001
Hi Ramon
Well, your evening the other day was quite an experience! But then, this is all
part of the greater learning curve, to see how other people live. I must
sympathise with you, I would also never have made it with Fiona et al. Some
people just have a stronger alcohol tolerance than others.
I hope that your future hosts are at least trying to remember all these things,
like what you like and don't like, so that some compromise can be reached with
what happens to you. You want ot learn, but not at the expense of your health.
Keep on, Ramon, we are all behind you.
All the best
Brian
Name: Ann Ugine
Country: Chili
Sent: 12.03 AM - 7/3 2001
Ramon, I read your June30 report and it was a bit shocking.
However it was the first time things got a bit negative, so probably I am just
spoiled with all the happy stories you have written before.
I know the Dutch a bit and they are not such a great drinkers as the Swedish,
Germans or Irish can do - so just keep your mouth closed at certain times.
I think everybody should just has to relate the story to a thing that has
happened and everybody learned from.
There is absolutely no reason to call names to Ramon, because he is currently
the only one on this complete planet, who travels around the world on
invitation of other people! At least a little respect, folks!
Reg,
Ann.
Name: Merlinda
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 9.11 PM - 7/2 2001
I know Ramon personally and I admire his memory...
Name: Chris
Country: UK
Sent: 8.54 PM - 7/2 2001
Ramon, I think you're expecting too much of your body to cope with all the
travelling, constant late nights AND such a large intake of alchohol every
night -especially as you've just got over an illness too. I think you sounded
quite "run down" in the latest report. You said when we spoke, that
you are generally a happy person and get along well with most people, but it
didn't sound that way in this report. I thought you were great (we really
enjoyed your company) but you don't give such a good impression in this report.
I think it was more to do with you drinking too much than your host's attitude.
Don't forget you can always say NO THANKS to the drink and just think of the
stories we miss out on because you couldn't remember them!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Ireland
Sent: 8.49 PM - 7/2 2001
Well everybody. My mailbox shows thumbs up about finally some negative
experiences, while the guestbook shows a lot of Irish backing up my previous
host.
I did not intend to upset anybody in my June 30 report, I only told the full
truth and I won't bother about inches and metres.
That's just what happened that day after a wonderful and a grateful day with a
lunch and dinner and free cigarettes, for which I DO AM thankful.
But the rest that night was how it happened.
Ramon.
Name: Big Mick
Country: UK
Sent: 6.49 PM - 7/2 2001
Ramon - what have you done? Have you upset your Irish
hosts?! I''ve yet to read this "report" but it doesn't sound good.
Look son, all you have to do is apologise and buy drinks all round and I'm sure
it will be fine.
Name: Michael
Country: Ireland
Sent: 4.48 PM - 7/2 2001
Ramon, you leech! Get a job! I hope you say nice things about Fiona Dunne
because I know that girl and she's not a langer! In fact she's quite a flah! So
work that out!!!!!!!!
Name: Adrian Moloney
Country: Ireland
Sent: 4.41 PM - 7/2 2001
Ramon,
Hospitality in Ireland (and everywhere) in the world is a two way street! Not
only were you provided accomodation by Fiona but you were invited to the dog
track with everyone else and treated with great courtesy. Not only does a
negative report like this place your host in a bad light but leaves them with
the fallout to deal with locally! I dont know Fiona any better than you do
(having only met her on Saturday night) but I think it says alot for her that
she would take you into her home full stop (Bravo Fiona) You certianly haven't
been treated badly so suck it up, socialise Irish style and dont forget
"Is aling an tanlann is t'ocras"!
By the way we came out with £170 on Saturday not £71.80 and as for getting
serious about dog racing you and I both know money IS a serious business!!!!!!!
Name: Alan O'Brien
Country: Cork, Ireland
Sent: 4.13 PM - 7/2 2001
My God Ramon!
Its looks like the Irish drink and company has got to you old boy!.
I know where you can get a wheelchair at a very cheap price. If
"interested" we can arrange it for the rest of your stay in Ireland
at a very cheap price!! Poor Fiona she went out of her way to please you
(vistor) to our joyful City of high buzz and highlife. Do you need another
12-hours in bed to recover?
Nice to know that you great respect for the Irish hosts, NOT!. Was it Niamh
that you were after? as Fiona, I would believe could noe be interested in you
at this point?
Regards, Alan a Corkonian
Name: Niamh
Country: Ireland
Sent: 3.58 PM - 7/2 2001
Ramon,
Think you concentrated too much on the negatives. Fiona is my flatmate and is a
really decent person, I think you gave her a raw deal. She bought you lunch
took you out and really went out of her way. I am really disappointed with your
report. Give me a call!! And you I will take the reverse charge!!!
Name: Fiona
Country: Ireland
Sent: 3.16 PM - 7/2 2001
When in Rome do as the Romans do! Irish people do look after their guests. Sat
night after a feed of drink does not turn us all into Linford Chrisites! 20
meters Ramon style is about 20inches!!
Tell is as it is not how you want to sound...dramatic!
Name: Juut (de Groot)
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 2.08 PM - 7/2 2001
Hi ramon! Wish you all the best from a sunbathing Groningen. I hope you will
get over that hangover, somewhere today... Black coffee doesn't work, as you
probably know... Better take some icecreams!! And, by the way, are you ever
going to visit the North of Holland?? I can show you some tulips you have never
seen before..!
Lots of love, juut
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Ireland right now
Sent: 2.01 PM - 7/2 2001
Paul, as far as I can see ahead I'll be visiting South Africa somewhere around
October this year... If nothing comes across anywhere else...
Ramon.
Name: Paul
Country: South Africa Cape Town
Sent: 10.36 AM - 7/2 2001
Hi man......
Hope you are going well ??? Let us know when you plan to come to SA. Rather
later this year , during summer.
Tchao
Name: Karen
Country: USA - Texas
Sent: 4.33 AM - 7/2 2001
Back to check on your progress Ramon, and I must say you seem to be doing
really well. Such beautiful hostesses in Ireland!!! I sure hope you behaved ;)
Name: Emery
Country: Seattle, WA, USA
Sent: 1.42 AM - 7/2 2001
CONGRATULATIONS WITH YOUR FIRST TWO MONTHS!!!!
You probably get congratulations with every 10 days following up the last and
you probably will go on for a couple of years. I really hope you will!
Emery.
Name: HS
Country: The netherlands
Sent: 6.59 PM - 7/1 2001
Ramon,
Again one month on the road. Congratuliations. Lots of luck the coming (sober?)
month.
Name: Wendy van der Laan
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 4.40 PM - 7/1 2001
Hi Ramon,
I really like this website, and I think you're doing the coolest thing by
traveling this way. Such a great idea how did you came up with it?
I was quite suprised to read that you've been to Paignton, UK. I have been
there last summer to follow a language course in Torquay and stayed with a host
family in Paignton for a couple of weeks. The beaches there are quite nice
aren't they, especially the peers.
Reading your reports made me relive that holiday again!
Anyway I wish you all the best on your journey and keep writing, I will
certainly keep reading!
Best
wishes,
Wendy
Name: julie
Country: UK
Sent: 12.22 PM - 7/1 2001
Alan - Ireland is a beautiful country.
I only feel that the "celtic tiger" economy
is changing it too fast.
J
x
Name: Alan MacDonald
Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 12.01 PM - 7/1 2001
Just a quick question.
How did the media exposure on 2FM and TV3 help with your invitation list for
Ireland?
Hopefully you'll be able to stay longer and see more of our beautiful country
:)
rgds
Alan
Name: Renate
Country: Germany
Sent: 7.28 AM - 7/1 2001
Have you ever read Bill Bryson´s travel reports?
If not-it´s a must! I found a link to your site in the "Tomorrow"
magazine...Your idea is great-a cool way to get to learn about people and
countries-and about oneself! :-)
Name: jose gregorio
Country: venezuela
Sent: 11.39 PM - 6/29 2001
Hi im no speakin ingles fine but quiero who com in imy country whats day you
com in here, mi name is jose gregorio im goin so day for holanda and dear
speaking for you onli espero your response in my email esperare your response
is sure your goin in my country. your friends jose gregorio.
Name: Kieran
Country: Ireland
Sent: 10.37 PM - 6/29 2001
Hi Ramon, Best of Luck Mate on your trip. I wish I had thought of it !! I'll be
following your adventures and forwarding your site address to mates. Be good,
and most of all, enjoy the time and the travel.
Kieran
O'Connell........Ireland !!!!!!!!
Name: julie
Country: UK
Sent: 8.36 PM - 6/29 2001
ALAN - let me tell you: you have a great little website
j
x
Name: Alan MacDonald
Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 8.24 PM - 6/29 2001
Hi,
Its weird.
I have a little website, and Ramon linked to it in his report on staying with
me. Last Wednesday the hit counter was about 120, now its over 500.
Which presented a problem, as the website was sort of just a placeholder, I
mainly used the domain for an email address.
Still, it was just the incentive I needed to put up a blogger. So, the initial
post is up, its still a bit flaky, and I fully expect it to have me cursing
over the weekend, but if anyone wants to look, its at
http://www.alanmacdonald.com
Now, its 20:26, I finished work at 18:30, and I'm /still here/ *sob*.
Going home NOW!
rgds
Alan
Name: René
Country: Switzerland
Sent: 6.22 PM - 6/29 2001
Hi Ramon
I heard about you today in the radio here in Switzerland. What a great idea you
had with your project! I invy you man because I also love traveling.
I guess you'll make one of the experiences of your life you'll never ever
forget. Have a nice trip and keep up the good work with your reports and
pictures!
Name: Sonja Hupfauf
Country: Deutschland
Sent: 4.56 PM - 6/29 2001
Hätte noch ein Zimmer frei aber habe familie und wenig Zeit ! Wurde gerne im
gegezug nach Spanien fahren ! Bitte um aufnahme in den Club
Name: Jim
Country: Dublin,Ireland
Sent: 12.59 PM - 6/29 2001
Ramon,
I'm glad to see you got onto the Gerry Ryan show after all! To everyone else -
this was what Ramon very much wanted to appear on when he first came to Ireland
last week.
I was on the TV3 morning show on wednesday myself and the researchers couldn't
believe that I was the guy you had stayed with. You're a total celebrity in
Ireland now!
I'm glad you're feeling a bit better, also.
If you're in Dublin tonight, give me a call and we'll have a drink. My
girlfriend's back from America and wants to meet you!
All the best,
Jim
Name: Siobhan Jackson
Country: Ireland
Sent: 10.43 PM - 6/28 2001
heard you talking to Gerry Ryan on the radio yesterday. Best of luck with your
adventures. I would love to accomodate you but unfortunately have more children
than space! Do try and visit Co. Wicklow which is not known as the Garden
County of Ireland for nothing. I will treat you to a coffee and a snack if you
visit Shankill!
I will keep up to date with your website
Good Luck again!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Ireland
Sent: 9.25 PM - 6/28 2001
Jeannie-D,
Yep, I sometimes forget to mention the Gifts.. Will come back to that
soon...Ramon.
Name: Jeannie-D
Country: France
Sent: 8.57 PM - 6/28 2001
Get better soon ........................ you don't mentiobn the gifts any more
- that part was always interesting to see what people could think up.
....and don't bother about your spelling - the important thing is to read your
daily trip - practice makes perfect
Bye
Name: Lynnie
Country: Ireland
Sent: 8.49 PM - 6/28 2001
Alan,
Was only referring to your comment about needing the towel to get your brain
started and I assume it's wet. Wasn't talking about your shape!
Almost expected to run into you today while shopping in Waterford. I will
someday.
Also expected to see Ramon on the road between Wexford and Waterford. Didn't
:-(
Keep warm and dry Ramon! Nice interview today.
-Lynnie
Name: Shane
Country: Ireland
Sent: 7.38 PM - 6/28 2001
I heard your interview on the radio this morning with Gerry Ryan on 2FM and was
intriqued by what you are doing.
I have travelled the world extensively myself but always with plenty of local
currency and a credit card or two!!!
I must take my hat off to you for having the balls to do what youre doing.
Name: Alan MacDonald
Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 2.24 PM - 6/28 2001
Hi,
Lynnie : Hmm, potato radio or orange clock? .oO(thinks)
I dunno, I suppose a certain amount of roundness, a little soupcon of rotundity
in my personal space is evident.
However, I must point out that I am not bright orange, nor do I smell of clay.
Apart from that, pretty accurate
rgds
Alan
PS, hmm, I also know what time it is, and I can pick up 2FM on my fillings. At
least i *think* the voices in my head are 2FM.
Could
be wrong
Name: carol
Country: waterford.ireland
Sent: 2.14 PM - 6/28 2001
Good luck to you Ramon.A wonderful idea. As a mother of three fine Sons ,my
wish for you Ramon is mind yourself , keep safe, return to your family with
wonderful memories
idir an da linn beir bua agus beannacht
Name: Ann Phelan
Country: Ireland
Sent: 11.35 AM - 6/28 2001
Ramon-you must try some REAL soda bread while your here - hope u get well soon-
Anne
Name: Lynnie
Country: Ireland
Sent: 10.53 AM - 6/28 2001
Alan, you're just like those potato radios or orange clocks!
Name: Heiner Stegmann
Country: Germany
Sent: 10.15 AM - 6/28 2001
Good luck for u. Thats a great idea. Of course we have a bed for a night for u.
ttyl
Name: Alan MacDonald
Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 9.56 AM - 6/28 2001
Hi,
Lynnie : At least your mind works .. I have to wrap my head in a towel to get
it started.
Lisabeth : 'A bit weirdo'. Yep. That about sums it up!
rgds
Alan
Name: Fergus Fromwalking
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 9.42 AM - 6/28 2001
Get well soon, Ramon. I read your reports and enjoy them a lot. Cheers on those
Guinesses !
Greetings,
Fergus
Name: Lisabeth
Country: Germany
Sent: 8.46 AM - 6/28 2001
Ramon , I think Alan macdonald is a bit weirdo ...be very careful.
Name: Kathy
Country: USofA
Sent: 12.50 AM - 6/28 2001
Hey Jim -
Your newspaper doesn't seem to be online. Is there any way we can see the
artiocle you wrote about Ramon??
Name: Anonymous
Sent: 11.32 PM - 6/27 2001
Ramon will be in the media!
Thursday 9-12am: Radio 2FM: "Gerry Ryan Show"
Friday morning: TV3 Ireland "Breakfast Show"
Name: Lynnie
Country: Ireland
Sent: 9.10 PM - 6/27 2001
Alan,
I guess it just shows how my mind works. Doesn't say much for me, does it?
Quit hogging Ramon and give him to me!
Name: Alan MacDonald
Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 8.03 PM - 6/27 2001
Ahem.
Now thats one I didn't get asked.
so...
d)Underwear. Hmmm... No. I'm pretty sure I know now at this stage where they
go. Otherwise i'd be getting strange looks when I walk down the street.
Hey!
Wait a minute!
rgds
Alan
Name: Lynnie
Country: Ireland
Sent: 6.49 PM - 6/27 2001
Gee Alan, I thought it was a pair of underwear!
;-)
Name: Wilma
Country: Canada
Sent: 6.09 PM - 6/27 2001
Hi Ramon!
Message from a Dutchy in Vancouver. Just to let you know that this is a brilliant
city. Make sure you get here one day. Unfortunately I won't be able to invite
you since I have to leave this place in August. Unless you hurry up a bit.....
Enjoy!
Name: Alan MacDonald
Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 3.48 PM - 6/27 2001
Hi all!,
OK, in answer to a few questions I got at work today, which made me think that
you lot are probably thinking the same things, I'd just like to point out that
that's a towel on my head in the
photograph,(http://www.letmestayforaday.com/photo/?id=774)
and not:
a) Whipped Cream. That would be a waste. Look carefully at the guy in the
photograph. Consider the waistline. Do I look like someone who would put
whipped cream on my head instead of eating it?
b) A Plastic Bag. Come on. He's only staying a few days. I'm not suicidal. Yet!
c) Shaving Foam. Sorry. I'm just not that weird. Honest.
I hope that that clears up what I'm sure were a few very important questions
that everyone had.
rgds
Alan
Name: Jim
Country: Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 12.10 PM - 6/27 2001
My article about having Ramon stay for a day is published in the Evening Herald
(Irish national newspaper) today. I think it was a first for me and for Ramon -
for each of us it was the first time we had to write about someone we knew was
going to write about us also!
I hope loads of people read the article and invite Ramon to stay in Ireland
longer. He's a great guy to have around!
Look after yourself down in Waterford and get well soon, my friend.
Name: Sharlini
Country: Malaysia
Sent: 8.14 AM - 6/27 2001
Get well soon, Ramon! Don't worry about your reports, either...we'll be
patient. =) Say, do you accept little gifts from hosts for yourself? Yes, I do
understand that you may not be back home for years and you might be carrying
more than you can bear if you did. I guess food is the best gift for someone
with a project like yours.
Take care, Ramon.
Sharlini
Name: Brian
Country: South Africa
Sent: 7.09 AM - 6/27 2001
Hi, Zym in Singapore
This is Ramon's project, so best he comments on the idea, and directs how his
project is run. If he wants, I am willing to help out. Although I live in
Durban, I am good mates with two DJs on a big radio station in Johannesburg
(also SA), and have contacts in TV as well.
Ramon, it's your call.
Brian
Name: Brian
Country: South Africa
Sent: 7.03 AM - 6/27 2001
Hi Ramon
Hey man, I really hope you are ok. Your illness, it's just a common cold, I
hope. Nothing too serious. I s'pose that climatic changes will upset a person's
immunity system, and bugs will wreck havoc for a couple of days.
Keep warm, and take in lots of Vitamin C. Get well soon, and happy travels. I
hope your host is compassionate and underastands your situation. Think of it as
an experience...
All the best,
Brian
Name: Zym
Country: Singapore
Sent: 3.35 AM - 6/27 2001
To Brian from S.Africa -
Maybe some international news network (like CNN)will be interested.If not,go
for regional TV network(eg.we've Channel News Asia from Singapore to cover the
asia section).
Or we should seek Ramon's opinion on whether he wants to be spotted or have
people chasing him down the streets.It may reduce traffic on the
website,though.
Name: Lynnie Obermiller
Country: Ireland
Sent: 6.07 PM - 6/26 2001
Ramon,
You're in Waterford - so close! Are you coming to see me next? Coralie says you
will love Wexford, so you must! You'll have your own bedroom and bathroom. (not
a bribe or anything!) ;-) I might be going to Waterford to do some errands
tomorrow or the next day. I have put credit on my mobile - I didn't know I had
run out - so that should be working now.
Hope to see you soon,
Lynnie
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 5.17 PM - 6/26 2001
S.N., Good question. I always ask if I could be allowed to smoke at somebody's
place. I don't even look at ashtrays. And if people say NO, I totally respect
that and WON'T smoke at all. I am not addicted, I think...
Ramon.
Name: S.N.
Country: MY
Sent: 5.10 PM - 6/26 2001
Hi Ramon!
If you don't see ashtrays in a house, do you get the hint and smoke outside? Or
are you planning to quit? Just curious! =) Some people are particular about
secondhand smoke...then again, if they were worried, would they invite you?
Keep it up, Ramon!
S.N.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 4.46 PM - 6/26 2001
Alan MacDonald, sitting right next to me right now: I was only criticising your
taste in music because I heard that same CD for the third time this afternoon.
Pictures of the last days are currently uploaded, stories are coming up. Just
cooled down the keyboard with some fresh water. Fingers are hurting.
And Canada? I think that'll take a while. I am not going more west now...
Ramon.
Name: Han Neng
Country: Singapore
Sent: 4.14 PM - 6/26 2001
Nina, well said.
Name: Lisabeth
Country: Germany
Sent: 1.41 PM - 6/26 2001
Ramon, just my thoughts but I think that Coralie is getting too scary...
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Waterford, Ireland
Sent: 12.40 PM - 6/26 2001
Please Coralie, stop posting your TELEPHONE NUMBER and EMAILADDRESS E V E R Y T
I M E. Even if you know I'll take it off, for SAFETY REASONS (!!) only. But if
you really want to receive prank calls, I'll keep it on.
Nina, thanks for the support and Amanda: thanks for the compliment! What if I
am invited in Big Brother?
Ramon.
Name: Amanda
Country: England
Sent: 12.00 PM - 6/26 2001
Well done Ramon, I would love to be able to write in Dutch!!! Keep It up, I have
followed you since you were with Bam Bam at Kiss100. Thrilling - Better than
Big Brother! Enjoy
Name: Coralie
Country: England
Sent: 8.55 AM - 6/26 2001
XXX XXXXXXXXX XX XXXXX XXXXXXXX
If either of you are near this way ...ie: The midlands ..please do call as I
can letyoustayfor a few days ....and give you the presents and surprises for
Ramon , as I am sure by virtue of the fact that you are related to this
innovative young gent ...we'd love to have you , and all my work will not go in
vain .
My mobile phone number is XX XXXXX XXXXX XXXXXX
email: XXXXXXXXXXX
I know this will be taken off but I do hope you will see it .....
I love your theory of english Nina ..so true ..and I love Ramons english ....it
is brilliant! You will also LOVE Ireland and especially Wexford..I've been
there.
Kind Regards
Coralie & Dave
Name: Brian
Country: South Africa
Sent: 7.18 AM - 6/26 2001
Hi there, Ramon
Hey man, I'm sure that everyone can understand what you say on this board. If
they don't like your spelling, they don't have to read it. Keep up the good
work, Ramon, and so what if there arae typo's in your messages. We all do
that...
Oh, and Nina, I do like your story about English. Really funny.
go well, Ramon
Brian
Name: Ludo
Country: Belgium
Sent: 10.59 PM - 6/25 2001
To Rosa (IRL), Marcelo (IT), Marloes(NL) and al the others, about a Ramon
fanclub-website.
My weblog and the map are eating away all the webspace I 've got at the moment.
Not to speak of the time, I work fulltime and it's nothing net-related, so all
my html is done by burning midnight oil...
But if one of you would take up this gauntlet, please checkout
http://100best-free-web-space.com/
especially
http://100best-free-web-space.com/20m.htm
And inspiration for a layout can be found on
http://freesitetemplates.com/
Post the url here and see me join the club :)
Name: Nina (again)
Sent: 9.19 PM - 6/25 2001
Last one:If GH stands for P as in Hiccough
If OUGH stands for O as in Dough
If PHTH stands for T as in Phthisis
If EIGH stands for A as in Neighbour
If TTE stands for T as in Gazette
If EAU stands for O as in Plateau
The right way to spell POTATO should be GHOUGHPHTHEIGHTTEEAU!
Name: Nina
Sent: 9.18 PM - 6/25 2001
Lets face it: English is a terrible language.
There is no egg in the eggplant, no ham in the hamburger and neither
pine,nor apple in the pineapple. English muffins were not invented in England.
French fries were not invented in France.
We sometimes take English for granted. But if we examine its paradoxes we find
that Quicksand takes you down slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea pig
is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.
If writers write, how come fingers don't fing.
If the plural of tooth is teeth, shouldn't the plural of phone booth be phone
beeth.
If the teacher taught, why didn't the preacher praught.
If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what the heck does a humanitarian eat!?
Why do people recite at a play, yet play at a recital?
Park on driveways and drive on parkways?
You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language where a house
can burn up as it burns down and in which you fill in a form by filling it out.
English was invented by people, not computers, and it reflects the
creativity of the human race (which of course isn't a race at all).
That is why when the stars are out they are visible, but when the
lights are out they are invisible. And why it is that when I wind up my watch
it starts but when I wind up this story it ends?
Name: Nina
Sent: 9.18 PM - 6/25 2001
Lets face it: English is a terrible language.
There is no egg in the eggplant, no ham in the hamburger and neither
pine,nor apple in the pineapple. English muffins were not invented in England.
French fries were not invented in France.
We sometimes take English for granted. But if we examine its paradoxes we find
that Quicksand takes you down slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea pig
is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.
If writers write, how come fingers don't fing.
If the plural of tooth is teeth, shouldn't the plural of phone booth be phone
beeth.
If the teacher taught, why didn't the preacher praught.
If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what the heck does a humanitarian eat!?
Why do people recite at a play, yet play at a recital?
Park on driveways and drive on parkways?
You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language where a house
can burn up as it burns down and in which you fill in a form by filling it out.
English was invented by people, not computers, and it reflects the
creativity of the human race (which of course isn't a race at all).
That is why when the stars are out they are visible, but when the
lights are out they are invisible. And why it is that when I wind up my watch
it starts but when I wind up this story it ends?
Name: Nina
Sent: 9.16 PM - 6/25 2001
For all those who still insist on making comments about Ramon’s English
spelling or grammar. Please enroll yourselves into a university and graduate as
English Teachers. That way, you can release the great desire of yours to
correct people’s spelling or grammar. You will have a whole classroom of
students to correct, which should keep you pretty busy. If you have already
majored in English. Then enjoy the following spelling and grammar jokes. Chill
out. Don’t take everything so seriously.
Name: Chris
Country: England
Sent: 9.16 PM - 6/25 2001
Hi Ramon, I think your spelling is amazingly good considering English is not
your first language and also because you're usually typing your reports in the
middle of the night, after a busy day, while the rest of us are fast asleep.
Anyway I think it's funny (especially when you said I was a LAD with a great
laugh) I do hope you meant to say LADY!
Looking forward to your next report - Chris.
P.S.- My sister isn't my twin, she's years younger than me (as she keeps on
reminding me). Bye for now.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Heuston Station, Dublin, Ireland
Sent: 2.27 PM - 6/25 2001
Tim Stoppelenburg is a cousin of mine. My brother is called Etienne.
Name: Coralie
Country: England
Sent: 1.28 PM - 6/25 2001
Hi Ramon
Please feel free to still avail yourself of a stay at our home where we will
always have a wonderful surprise for you ! ..its nice to see your brother tim
and dad follow you as well!god Bless and safe journeys
love
Coralie
Name: lianne
Country: zwolle, netherlands
Sent: 12.14 PM - 6/25 2001
We all want to be big big stars, but we got different reasons for that ;0)
Name: dennis kaatman
Country: het vliegende paard
Sent: 12.00 PM - 6/25 2001
he ramon
hou je het nog een beetje uit zo zonder ons. Het is hier af en toe wel
opvallend rustig, er is niemand die af en toe eens lekker zeurt. maar goed, ik
vind het knap dat je het nog steeds vol houdt. De planning was volgens mij dat
je met een maand weer terug zou komen, maar schijnbaar bevalt het je zo goed
dat je nog wel even weg blijft. ik wens je veel succes en plezier toe
Dennis
Name: Marcelo
Country: Italia!
Sent: 10.22 AM - 6/25 2001
Gretchen just wishes everybody would be as perfect as she is. Well eat this:
Nobody is perfect! Stupid £$%&*!
Name: Gretchen Liles
Country: Here is a tip!
Sent: 10.20 AM - 6/25 2001
...correct your spelling errors on your site!
Name: Tim Stoppelenburg
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 8.25 AM - 6/25 2001
Hi Ramon,
My father and I follow you every day. It is very cool
what you are doing. Good luck and take care of yourself.
Tim
Name: noorie
Country: pakistan
Sent: 8.15 AM - 6/25 2001
hi iam waiting for ur new reports.
hurry up plz.
Sent: 11.56 PM - 6/24 2001
Hi Ramon, Give me a call about getting a photographer to you. All the best,
Jim in Dublin.
Name: Rosa
Country: Ireland rules!
Sent: 8.08 PM - 6/24 2001
I agree with Marcelo from IT and Marloes from NL, there should be a fanclub
website! Ludo, Mister Ramon's Mapmaker, do you have some webspace left?
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Ireland
Sent: 7.05 PM - 6/24 2001
Coralie, please know I don't have any hard feelings to you. The whole thing at
the Birmingham Airport was just a big miscommunication thing, but I learned
from it and -like Andy says- enjoyed 'the adventure'. It's just Murphy's Law I
guess...
Ramon.
Name: Andy Bullock
Country: UK
Sent: 6.30 PM - 6/24 2001
Coralie, I would not feel too guilty, I phoned Ramon the 'Birmingham Airport'
evening to see that everything was OK and he said yes, but if he really didn't
want to be there, he could have said, 'well, actually no', and we would have
gladly picked him up again to stay-for-another-day, but he didn't. Anyway, I
think he quite enjoyed his adventure so don't be too hard on yourself. One
thing i would say is that you missed out on a great experience not having him
stay with you! Bye for now,
Andy
Name: Alan MacDonald
Country: Ireland
Sent: 2.22 PM - 6/24 2001
Sympathy for Coralie....
Ramon is hopefully staying with me tomorrow, but I can't contact him on his
mobile :( So I know how you felt. Its giving a big bad beepbeepbeep, number
unobtainable.
Ramon: Check your email! I've sent you tons of contact and location information
on how to reach me. Sorry my mobile was off, but I was asleep. Soundly.
regards, and hoping to see you soon :)
Alan
Name: CORALIE
Country: ENGLAND
Sent: 6.57 PM - 6/23 2001
Ramon to say Im Mortified, it doesn't even enter the equasion. I feel so gutted
at you having to stay at the airport. If there is ANY way I can make up for this
mix up. I beg you. I had a lot of lovely things arranged. I have tried to ring
your mobile but it keeps saying this number is unavailable.
SO everyone: I was (in part) to blame for the horrendous night at the
Birmingham airport! If you come back here RAMON....I will PAY for you to be
transported to our house. However. I do hope you forgive.
love. Coralie
ps got you a great pressies from Holiday ...
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Ireland - today!
Sent: 6.13 PM - 6/23 2001
YEAH! ANSWERING QUESTIONS-time!
Carl: So what about your job back home? Did your boss let you have a few months
of? (With pay)?
Answer: As you can read elsewhere on this website, I am a journalism student
and a part time deejay. So I have all freedom of the world.
Brendon: how do you fly around the countrys?
A: I try only to fly over oceans, countries on the same continent will be
reached by hitchhiking only. And if I fly, I don't pay for it. Brussels -
London was sponsored, also my boats from the UK to Ireland.
Chris: Don't you miss your own bed?
A: No, not really. It's just a bed.
Eline: How are you sure that people that invited you are still available in 2
years?
A: I can never be sure, but I have emailaddresses and telephone numbers. If the
person doesn't live there, I won't go.
So far!
Regards,
Ramon.
Name: Eleni
Country: Greece
Sent: 4.10 PM - 6/23 2001
How are you sure that people that invited you are still available in 2 years?
People move, marry, divorce....
You better ask invitations for the next 2 , 3 countries, not the whole world!
Name: manx gals
Country: isle of man
Sent: 3.07 PM - 6/23 2001
when were you on the isle of man and when did you leave? did you enjoy your
stay here?
BIG UP 2 THE ISLE OF MAN AND RAMON, KEEP IT UP FELLA!
Name: L.S.O.M.
Country: Malaysia.
Sent: 4.44 AM - 6/23 2001
Ramon,
Forget David Letterman, you are a celebrity yourself (even better)! Please do
welcome questions.This is going to be a great internet corner - I bet it!
Take
care.
Name: Brendon
Country: New Zealand
Sent: 1.40 AM - 6/23 2001
how do you fly around the countrys? with a limited budget, like do you try to
get free tickets or suthing?
Name: Carl
Country: Isle of Man
Sent: 10.35 PM - 6/22 2001
So what about your job back home?
Did your boss let you have a few months of?
(With pay)?
Try to get to Cyprus !!
Good luck and Keep it up :-)
Name: Steevy
Country: France
Sent: 9.34 PM - 6/22 2001
It was a joke !
;-)
Your project is brilliant,
idea of genius !
Name: Steevy
Country: France
Sent: 9.31 PM - 6/22 2001
You seems to stay a very long time in UK ?
If you stay one month in each country you will take three or more years to do
your travel !
Name: Anneloes
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 10.48 AM - 6/22 2001
Yeah, Marcelo from Italy is right! There should be a Ramon Stoppelenburg Fan
club (This project will become sooo big)! Who wants to start it up, I have no
idea how it works. Anneloes.
Name: Chris and Andy
Country: UK
Sent: 7.25 AM - 6/22 2001
We loved having you stay with us in Liverpool, you were great company and you'd
be welcome back anytime.
A message for Elliot in Manchester - THANK YOU so much for the lovely gift, I
really appreciate the work that must have gone into making such a tiny,
delicate picture.
Name: Brian
Country: South Africa
Sent: 6.37 AM - 6/22 2001
Hi Ramon
I just read the suggestion from Zym. That's brilliant! How would that be set
up? Worldwide? Man, what a brilliant idea! Shall I try to get a radio station
or two to promote it here? It will be hard, because of their rules, but I can
try.
Spot you in Durban.
Brian
Name: Jen
Country: Leicester, UK
Sent: 9.50 PM - 6/21 2001
well u seem to be having fun! if my house wasnt so full, i'd invite u round to
stay! i'd love to do something like wot ur doing. it wud b a good experience!
enjoy!
Name: Tigrrr
Country: Malaysia
Sent: 5.15 PM - 6/21 2001
Just to tell you that my internet bills have gone up because of your
interesting reports! Perhaps I need to have a sponsor for
letmereadramonsreportsforaday.com! Good work, Ramon!
T
Name: Cheryl
Country: England, cambrideshire!
Sent: 3.31 PM - 6/21 2001
Hi, Just o wish u all the luck in the world, i wish i had the courrage to do
something like your doing! well done! and have fun!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Isle of Man (yes, it's a country!)
Sent: 2.14 PM - 6/21 2001
Hi Karen,
I really don't know when I'll hit the USA, it may even be in a couple of years
from now... About the publishers; do you know any good ones?
Regards,
Ramon.
Name: Karen
Country: Texas - USA
Sent: 2.06 PM - 6/21 2001
I haven't really been keeping up - any work on if you'll make it to the states?
Hope so! I'm also reading some of your old reports, the photos really make it so
much more alive. I think any publisher would jump all over this. Keep up the
great work!
Name: Wendy Jervis
Country: United Kingdom
Sent: 1.44 PM - 6/21 2001
This is a message for Andy Bullock - I would be very interested to know the
significance of the Mug. We had to leave in huge rush that morning as we were
getting late for a business meeting. Email me at wendy@theigloo.co.uk! :)
To keep you reassured the mug is safe in the cupboard.
Huggggggggs!
Name: noorie
Country: pakistan
Sent: 10.45 AM - 6/21 2001
dear ramon,
i read ur project daily.
plz dont get dissappointed with small losses and carry on with ur magnificent
work.
i so want to invite u but i dont think i can manage it.
however
loves
noorie from pakistan
Name: Marcelo
Country: Italia!!!!
Sent: 1.15 AM - 6/21 2001
Hey Ramon,
Do you already have a fan club? And if so, where can I join?
Keep up your great 'work', I really enjoy it everyday!
Marcelo
Name: Helena
Country: UK
Sent: 10.15 PM - 6/20 2001
Hi Ramon,
Nice to know everyone is treating you well. You're doing great! Zane keeps
asking where is Ramon today? And Iman says "He's in Southammpptonnn!"
LOL
It is true, you touch many peoples lives in different ways.
And to those who come to this message board with rude comments: "If you
don't have anything nice to say, don't say nothing at all!"
All the best Ramon!
Helena,
Iman and Zane
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Liverpool, UK today
Sent: 10.03 PM - 6/20 2001
Hi Olu from London. Good question: how do I get laid? Well, imagine yourself
traveling around and visit another place day by day. Different people everyday.
It just doesn't really come to my mind anymore. It will be something for later.
Ramon.
Name: olu
Country: London, UK
Sent: 6.59 PM - 6/20 2001
If you stay at all these places for one night, how do you get laid? Where do
you take the ladies (or gentleman?). Do you get frustrated?
Name: Andy Bullock
Country: Heath Hayes, UK
Sent: 6.28 PM - 6/20 2001
Hi Ramon, how are you? I just read the latest report from June 17 (B'ham
airport - Sheffield) and I just wanted to agree with you about Billy Elliott.
We watched it about 1 week before you stayed with us and it is excellent. We
were going to get a DVD to watch when you stayed with us, but as you arrived a
bit later than expected, we didn't really have time. Hope you are enjoying your
travels and I hope the technical problems are sorted soon as I like to keep
updated! I hope that Colin and Wendy liked the mug and know the significance?!
(Or if Colin or Wendy reads this - I hope you liked it!)
Regards,
Andy
Name: Nina
Country: Panama
Sent: 6.24 PM - 6/20 2001
I disagree with Raphael that most people are the same all over the world. There
are different cultures and beauty in every country. I think it is so nice that
Ramon is traveling and sharing all this with everyone. Every person and every
place is different in his or her own way. People are basically the same because
they eat, sleep, talk, go to work, etc. But what I am seeing in Ramon’s reports
are the diversities of these common everyday habits. Plus, the pictures and
views of towns, monuments, houses and landscape are all so different. France
looks different than England and so on. I had no idea what black pudding was. I
thought it was a chocolate flavored pudding. This is one of the new things
(little, as it may seem to others) I learned among the many other things I have
learned by reading Ramon’s reports. Different cultures, habits, people,
landscape and experiences are what makes this journey of Ramon’s so exciting.
I’m not bored at all! I’m sure Ramon isn’t either.
Name: Raphael
Country: UK
Sent: 6.08 PM - 6/20 2001
Ramon -
Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions about boredom. One
lifetime is not really enough to discover everything about this World.
May you never stop being curious.
R
Name: Brian
Country: South Africa
Sent: 12.07 PM - 6/20 2001
Hi Ramon
Pity about your administration system error. That's only a computer. You, on
the other hand, are a person, and a strong one. Keep on moving, even if you
have to save your reports for uploading later. We shall wait patiently for your
system to be up and running again.
I am looking forward to meeting you, and can hardly wait for your arrival in
sunny South Africa.
Bye
now
Brian
Name: raphael
Country: England, UK
Sent: 10.13 AM - 6/20 2001
Hello Ramon
Just wondering - are you getting a bit bored with the
"adventure"? Isn't it the truth that most people, most places are the
same all over the World? Isn't it all just another mattress on the floor and a
television?
A Zen Master would say that you have a kind of disturbance within yourself if
you feel the need to constantly travel when the real answers lie within you.
Please note that this message is in no way to discourage or upset you. I
respect your journey.
Name: Sharlini
Country: Malaysia
Sent: 5.22 PM - 6/19 2001
Ramon, you're doing a great job! HS spoke for all of us, I'm sure. As for
people like Corrector, remember this: "If we had no faults of our own, we
would not take so much pleasure in noticing those of others." ~François, Duc de la Rochefoucauld.
All the best in your journeys,
Sharlini
www.geocities.com/cqcumber_99/
Name: Edwin
Country: Netherlands / Tilburg
Sent: 4.58 PM - 6/19 2001
Hello Ramon,
I just found out about this project and you as the "force" within it.
This must be a big thing for you.. When I read the messageboard, I was suprised
about what you do with people. The man from Poland (page 2), Alex Pajitrov (85
years old) brought tears in my eyes.
People love you and what you do, because you are doing what a lot of people
would like to do...
I think this is a good thing, not just for you but for all people who can
relate...
Stay in touch with the man you are.
p.s. Please do not critsize me... My intention is only to communicate.
Edwin
Name: Melinda
Country: USA
Sent: 4.04 PM - 6/19 2001
Hi Ramon,
It's a little wierd writing you. I've been following your steps since you
began, and feel I know you, but you haven't any idea who I am. Anyhow, I check
in every couple of days and read about your travels and I just read your June
14th/15th log, you were picked up by a modern day witch and you said something
that intrests me and I wanted to respond.
You said that this witch could not prove to you anymore then other religions
could. I don't have a religion but I do have a belief (a relationship)with
Jesus Christ and I wanted to tell you that when or if you came to Minnesota my
husband and I could prove to you the power of this belief.
Until then I look forward to reading about other places you've stayed. Also if
you need a place to stay in Scotland I may have a name for you they live
outside of Glasgow.
Melinda
"A merry heart doeth will like medicine." Proverbs
Country: wendy@theigloo.co.uk
Sent: 3.57 PM - 6/19 2001
Hi Ramon,
Colin and I hope it didn't take you too long to get a ride this morning. Our
business meeting went well and one of the people at the meeting heard our
interview on Radio Sheffield. They played a lot of the interview not just the
one line or so that I heard this morning.
Thank you for a remarkable and memorable two days. Even though we agreed to
disagree on the future of Europe ;-)
Just to let you guys know, Ramon is a very friendly and unique person and I
promise that you will find it a pleasure to play host for a day or two.
We will keep in touch and eagerly await your future reports to be published.
Best wishes
Wendy and Colin
XXX
Name: rachel
Country: UK
Sent: 9.44 AM - 6/19 2001
Dear Ramon
I am honoured that you have made it this far to my country - the UK. I can only
dream about the amazing adventure you have undertaken. In only 6 weeks, you
have probably experienced more people, more places, more highs and lows than
most of us can manage in a year - maybe a lifetime.
Live the dream!
Rachel
xx
Name: LSOM
Country: Malaysia
Sent: 8.59 AM - 6/19 2001
Dear Ramon,
Thanks for making me realised that INTERNET equals to
COMMUNICATION. Take care of your health and travel healthily.
Name: Marcus
Country: Holland
Sent: 8.45 AM - 6/19 2001
Oh, I am sorry that I just wrote a message in Dutch, well in short it says that
this ealry morning I found out about Ramon's world tour in a newspaper and that
I think it is an awkward expedition but extremely cool. Moreover I know that at
Tonga, little isle in the Pacific, there is a lady called Elise working for the
local radio who will be so kind to take care of him for a day or two. Well
adios from a uni's library!
Name: Brian
Country: South Africa
Sent: 6.45 AM - 6/19 2001
Hi Ramon
I've been checking every few days on your progress. The weekend's visit to
Birmingham airport you say is a defeat. Well, maybe not. I rekon that you were
hosted by the airport, the only difference being that you did not arrange it in
advance.
In any case, life does not always go according to plan. It is in these
situations that one can prove one's resourcefulness.
I really like your quote about getting where you are and starting where you
were. So true. I hope you don't mind, I've copied it for keeping, with the
reference, in my list of quotes.
Man, this is one hell of a project. Keep going, and let me know when you plan
to visit South Africa. All the best for you, Ramon.
See
ya
Brian
Name: R.U.G.
Country: ARGENTINA
Sent: 3.01 AM - 6/19 2001
I MEANT WANT THEM TO BE OR PLANNED ...
(SORRY
CORRECTOR)
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Sheffield, UK at the moment
Sent: 12.08 AM - 6/19 2001
I would like to use the quote "Please do not critsize my English. My
intention is only to communicate."
Thank you for your kindest words, HS.
I am speechless. And in return: your writing inspires me in bad times.
Ramon.
Name: Ivor
Country: British Isles
Sent: 12.05 AM - 6/19 2001
I could not have written it better than HS! Thumbs up!
Good luck!
Name: HS
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 9.39 PM - 6/18 2001
Hey Ramon,
I am impressed how you are executing your project. When I read your reports, I
feel almost being with you and your hosts looking around and listening to the
conversation.
The contrasts in your reports are so remarkable.
One moment you tell us about a luxury first class trip to Vienna with champagne
and then you are sitting in a flying ultra light "motor bike", only
secured by a safety belt. You have guts!
What to think of the difference your appearing in an Austrian talk show as a
"celebrity" and waiting alone for a hitch along the highway. And one
day you stayed with a priest and a couple of days later you are in a car with a
witch. This must "shape" your character.
The "weight" of the discussions is also striking. Small talks about
food etc. are lately varied with very heavy stuff as opinions about Euthanasia,
Prostitution, Drugs, Child-pregnacy. When do you start your internet talk show
in your spare minutes?
I have a lot of respect for all the things you are doing every day. Writing
reports, reading messages @-mails, contacting and socializing with hosts and
homebase, getting hitches/walking along the high way, etc., etc. It is almost
working. Don't get a burn out.
Ramon, when I read on the message board how people are enjoing your trip I hope
you will go on. But please take care of yourself. Also my best regards to your
hosts and all the people who are willing to help you.
P.S. Please do not critsize my English. My intention is only to communicate.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: Sheffield, UK
Sent: 3.39 PM - 6/18 2001
Hey Munkman (hometown collegefriend)! So you are suggesting to come over here
to bring me a crate of Dutch beer? Haha! Surprise me! Ramon.
Name: Munk
Country: Holland
Sent: 3.33 PM - 6/18 2001
Hey, Ramon, still enjoying the urban surroundings of the industrial north of
England? Do they have Grolsch there or do we need to bring you some? It worked
before, you know...
Name: Sigrid
Country: Deurne (Belgium)
Sent: 2.50 PM - 6/18 2001
Hi Ramon, I really like your project, you're doing very well.
Every day I'm surfing on the internet to see your last report of the day.
Wonderful, everybody who visites your website is travelling with you, so don't
worry you'll never feel lonely.
Keep up man!
Regards,
Sigridxxx
Name: stan
Country: united kingdom
Sent: 10.41 AM - 6/18 2001
RAMON!
Surprised you don't like BLACK PUDDING!
What's wrong wih pig's blood mixed with lots of fat?
If you go North, try MUSHY PEAS from a Chip Shop.
Anyway, our national meal is now CHICKEN KORMA!
Happy eating!
stan the man
Name: Julius
Country: Puerto Rico
Sent: 5.51 AM - 6/18 2001
Dear Ramon:
Good Job Buddy!
I wonder when is it going to be the time for you to take a vacation from your
long-now-vacation and hit the caribbean and join me in the beautifull island of
Puerto Rico where the beaches are warm, the girls are gorgeous ("Miss
Universe 2001") and the Bacardi rum is cheap. What do you say?! Contact me
@: [EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED]
Cordially,
Julius
Name: Alex Pajitrov
Country: Poland
Sent: 1.21 AM - 6/18 2001
Dear Ramon,
I think you are doing a wonderful job. I don't understand how you got to do it,
but I think thousands of people are travelling with you everyday.
Please keep up the writing and know that most people are even learning from
your English writing. It must be hard to write a 4 page diary everyday while
you stay with other people in their homes.
But I hope you will keep on enjoying the hospitality.
I am now a old man, 85 years old - and typing this must have taken me over 25
minutes.
I always had the dream, your dream, to see cross oceans and see the world, you
know: when I was young.
But life got me stuck in things. I fell in love with a lovely girl, got two
beautiful daughters and after all I did sail many oceans as a fisherman.
It's very inspiring to travel with you, while I am now stuck in a wheelchair
and my nurse pushes me to the computer room, but I can type you this letter and
I am proud of it.
Just as proud as I am to you! It's just so amazing to see the world inviting a
stranger over. I bet something must happen with all the people you visit.
I really hope your journey brings you to Poland, but if it doesn't, just keep
your eyes open for all of us following you on this net. We'll be there with
you.
God bless you!
Alexandr
Marico Pajitrov
Name: Nick Williams
Country: Hanbury, UK
Sent: 12.51 AM - 6/18 2001
HiRamon
Just Logged on to see how your getting on. Bit of a glitch i see with the
Nuneaton stayover. Dont worry, i'd prefer to stay at B'ham Airport anyway.
You thought Bristol was bad! Nuff said.. Also your backtracking old friend.
Should have given us a call from the airport i'd have come and picked you up.
Its just up the road and Toby would have enjoyed another night having his ball
thrown around.
Well, best wishes as ever from us at West Lodge, I'm sure it will be plain
sailing from now on.
Speak to you soon....brave Man!
Regards, Nick Williams.
Name: Jenn
Country: USA
Sent: 11.29 PM - 6/17 2001
Corrector, Does it really bother you that much?!? Can't you just enjoy what
Ramon is sharing with us? I don't see you out a BIG adventure or anything.
I think worring about correct grammar and spelling is probably the last thing
on Ramon's mind! We all make spelling errors - you included! Maybe you should
have someone correct your stuff before you send it, doesn't seem like you spell
to efficiently either!
Practise what you preach - if you're going to give someone a hard time -
frankly it's annoying.
Sorry to all of you, who disagree with me.
Ramon, you're doing a great job. ! :)
Jenn
Name: Andy
Country: UK
Sent: 10.36 PM - 6/17 2001
Ramon, I would just like to commend you on still keeping relatively up-to-date
despite the confusion of the last couple of days. I would also like to thank
you for making those minor changes I mentioned and would like to say Keep up
the good work! Also, to anyone thinking of inviting Ramon, 'Do it now! It is a
brilliant experience and you would thoroughly enjoy his company.' STILL looking
forward to reading report number 47! Bye for now,
Andy
Name: mozzer
Country: United Kingdom
Sent: 5.00 PM - 6/17 2001
RAMON - WELCOME TO THE UK!
HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING YOUR INCREDIBLE JOURNEY.
DO YOU LIKE FISH AND CHIPS?
BEST OF LUCK,
M
Name: John
Country: Phoenix, AZ
Sent: 2.58 PM - 6/17 2001
Hi there ramon, I really enjoy your trip and accounts of your personal
experiences and the pictures are a PLUS. I check in every day twice. You kind
of remined me of my son Zane. You take care and hope you get to the states soon
!!!
Name: kelly
Country: australia
Sent: 9.30 AM - 6/17 2001
So who's your number 1 fun eh?
good luck with your project!
Kellyxxx
Name: Andy, your ex-host
Country: Heath Hayes, UK
Sent: 12.22 AM - 6/17 2001
Hi Ramon, hope everything is good with you and your 'number 1 fan'. It really
was a great pleasure to have you stay with us and I look forward to reading the
report for day number 47. Mom and dad say Hi! Tell corrector to stay cool.
Enjoy your stay in Nuneaton, regards,
Andy
Name: Corrector
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 10.25 PM - 6/16 2001
Ok, I'm not the one to correct Ramons English and
I didn't try to. I only advised him to get some
help with it.
Name: Guess Who
Country: USA
Sent: 8.08 PM - 6/16 2001
Oops!! Corrector, you spelled "recognise" and "couragious"
wrong. They are spelled: recognize and courageous.
Better check out your own English instead of wasting time correcting Ramons'.
Keep up the good work Ramon.
Name: Corrector
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 7.57 PM - 6/16 2001
Ramon, I listed a whole range of errors of the
English language but you do not even recognise
them. That is why I advised you to get your backup
team to correct them for you. There is nothing wrong
with what you are doing. It is great and couragious.
I wish all the best.
Name: Jaap
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 6.43 PM - 6/16 2001
I think the length of your reports is good like this, these are nice stories to
read every day. Good luck with your travels and stay a little while in Great
Britain because there are so many beautiful places.
Name: Noemi
Country: Argentina
Sent: 10.47 PM - 5/6 2001
I have been reading your reports..well you are good!!! and you have the grace
of making us travel with you. Your descriptions are very real and make us feel
like going by your side. Nice to know your country by such a well narrative
writer. Congratulations.. We will be proud to have you in our country..Good
luck and take care!!
Name: Alex Cain
Country: Miledgeville, GA, USA
Sent: 9.40 PM - 5/5 2001
Congratulations on a successful beginning. Hope it goes well for you and can't
wait for you to get to the
States!
Name: Jackie
Country: USA Collumbus, Ohio
Sent: 5.44 PM - 5/5 2001
Ramon,
I am glad you are doing well. I sense the frustration with the email mess. Good
luck and I hope you are taking many notes (and pictures too!). I saw you in
USAToday and thought it was a great adventure! Best wishes.
Name: lazystudent.co.uk
Country: UK
Sent: 1.40 PM - 5/5 2001
Just read the first two reports for May 2nd and 3rd. They are very good, keep
up the good work.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 11.42 AM - 5/5 2001
The latest update for May 5th: left from The Hague to Rotterdam!
Name: Jorgen
Country: Zwolle
Sent: 10.22 PM - 5/4 2001
RaMones, I'm glad that everything is OK. I hoop you'll have a very good time
and don't forget us. Your ex-partner.
Name: Russ Weiss
Country: San Antonio, Texas USA
Sent: 9.04 PM - 5/4 2001
Good luck on your journey. You have to come through San Antonio. The cultural
diversity alone is worth the trip. I moved here in January, 2000 and never plan
on leaving, even after I retire this November.
San Antonio has it all: incredible year-round weather,
fantastic Mexican and/or Tex-Mex food, the Alamo, the Riverwalk and warm,
friendly people! If you go through Mexico and plan on visiting the USA
afterwards, come through San Antonio. Afterwards, go through Austin - they have
some of the best kick-ass clubs for music in the country!
Name: Baseerat
Country: Pakistan
Sent: 2.28 PM - 5/4 2001
Hope u'll be having a nice trip round the world, enjoying & meeting new
people & making friends, hope to see u soon,
with best wishes for ur safe & nice journey
Take care
Name: Seb guri
Country: Argentina
Sent: 12.16 PM - 5/4 2001
well i hope that you can give us the new information, and i would like be in
the good bye, but i hope that you can be here in Buenos Aires soon.
luck
little crazy
Name: Angelica de Bruin
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 9.35 AM - 5/4 2001
GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!!!!
Angelica
from Dordrecht Holland
Name: Gaby
Country: netherlands
Sent: 8.21 AM - 5/4 2001
I made a link yo your site on my weblog....I support you and wish it was me
doing it....http://www.gaby407.com
Name: BackupTeam
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 11.11 AM - 5/3 2001
Ramon is placing the reports and pictures on the site himself during his
traveling. There was a little technical problem but that will be solved today,
so they will be placed today. Ramon is doing fine and heading to Scheveningen
today.
Bye
Bye
Name: MFJameel
Country: PAkistan
Sent: 10.43 AM - 5/3 2001
Hello Ramon,Where r u . when willu come to Pakistan .
Tell me tentative week and month.Bye .
Name: carolina soza acevedo
Country: CHILE
Sent: 6.08 AM - 5/3 2001
hi!
I'm Carolina. I'm 24, and from Santiago of Chile in Southamerica. I want that
you come to my home. I hope your email!.
WELCOME TO CHILE my friend!!!!!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 1.35 AM - 5/3 2001
I am now on the way to the 3rd day. The reports of the first two dates are on
its way. It's just waiting for some little techical things, when it comes
online. My current hostess Caroline in Amsterdam has already posted a preview
on her weblog on www.prolific.org.
Regards, Ramon.
Name: Marjolein
Country: Holland
Sent: 8.50 PM - 5/2 2001
I'm very proud of you, neighbour of mine! Good luck, enjoy the world, love
Marjolein
Name: Desiree
Country: Zwolle, The Netherlands
Sent: 6.37 PM - 5/2 2001
He Ramon!!
Ofcourse you don't know me but I would like to say one thing to you: Just keep
on going!!! Because what you are doing is one of the most exciting thing there
is. Well... I think so because I never came any further than Istanbul, Turkije
of Londen, England (sorry for my english!). But I know for sure, one day I'll
make a world wide trip just like you (even if it means that I'll be 80 years
old, if I start with my trip!)! You're my inspiration! Lots of Love Desiree
Name: Chris
Country: Holland
Sent: 10.12 PM - 5/1 2001
Very, very, very cool project!!!! GOOD LUCK!
Name: Øyvind Darup
Country: Norway
Sent: 6.27 PM - 5/1 2001
Good luck too you, hope u enjoy your world tour. Take care...We`re looking out
for you!!
Name: lazystudent
Country: UK
Sent: 2.02 PM - 5/1 2001
Good Luck from the lazystudent team.
@ http://www.lazystudent.co.uk
Name: Willem
Country: Belgium
Sent: 10.14 AM - 5/1 2001
Hay Ramon,just want to wish u a good and safety departure and I hope to see u
real soon here in Belgium.Good luck and have loads of fun!! P.S.hope u like
real belgian chips..
Name: Zain
Country: Pakistan
Sent: 5.28 AM - 5/1 2001
Looking forward to track your journey around the globe. You're a pioneer in
this global hitch hiking trip. Good luck. Hope you like spicy food.
Name: greenpeace Luo
Country: PRchina,Suzhou(near Shanghai)
Sent: 12.27 AM - 5/1 2001
You are a hero,I support your planning and wish u will be china,an acient and
great country is waiting for your discovering.Take care yourself and have a
good journey.
Name: Haroon
Country: Pakistan
Sent: 4.40 PM - 4/30 2001
I think its a wonderful idea, travelling around the world, meeting different
people and seeing different places. I read about your plans in a newspaper
magazine. Wish u good luck and hope to see u in Pakistan.
Name: Ross
Country: Scotland
Sent: 9.33 PM - 4/29 2001
I look forward to your report from New Zealand as i am going their in January
next year for my Gap year.
Good
Luck
Name: zilvervos
Country: netherlands
Sent: 7.12 PM - 4/28 2001
Why is it that all the interesting guys leave from this town ? But you'l be
returning. Buy a bag full of those caps when your'e in Enland, people will like
them as souvenirs, and we won't be able to recognize you without it.
Can you imagine those big-mac devouring american families on the highway
driving by " Daddy that's the letmestayforaday dude !" Ok let's take
him !
See you tonight !
Name: Ramon Stoppelenbug
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 6.54 PM - 4/28 2001
Can any citizen from Pakistan tell me how he got to this site? I am suddenly
overwhelmed by a lot of invitations from that country and can't find any
referral to my site.
Name: Bilal
Country: Pakistan
Sent: 11.33 AM - 4/28 2001
hello Ramon we will welcomeyoou to the out back of pakistan u can climb
mountains fish or vist rugged terraian. its up to u have fun mean while.
Name: Thomas Mahakardarah
Country: India
Sent: 12.06 AM - 4/28 2001
I don't matter when you come around in my place, just KEEP ON WRITING you dude!
Go go go!
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: home, The Netherlands
Sent: 12.00 AM - 4/28 2001
Just an answer to all those people who are asking when I'll be there where they
have invited me: please follow me online - I don't have any clues of arriving
somewhere at a certain time. Let time tell us all!
Thankful regards,
Ramon.
Name: Sebastian Larrosa
Country: Buenos aires, Argentina
Sent: 4.09 PM - 4/27 2001
well i´ll be waiting for ramon here in argentina and i hope,that he can appear
soon.
Name: PETER RIGBY
Country: ENGLAND
Sent: 8.50 PM - 4/26 2001
Ramon,you will be travelling my dream, I wish you every sucsess,have fun,enjoy
every experience(and share then with us)but most of all be safe.
I look forward to welcoming you to Liverpool
Name: The Dancin' Few
Country: Zwolle, Netherlands
Sent: 9.36 AM - 4/26 2001
As we will say from your HOME-base: Goodbye and good luck. And just hope not
every visitor of your website comes to your Goodbye Party this Saturday, Ramon!
We'll be following you!
Name: Sammy
Country: Holland
Sent: 1.57 AM - 4/26 2001
Aloha Ramon, Such smart thinking, that will get you all over the world...Long
live the internet, as I may say so...But the main reason, of this message is,
to wish you all the best, fun and good luck, on your journey ,to wherever...
p.s. I you will be on David Letterman, could you give him my regards ?? Thanx,
Yours truely.....Sammy (Buckle up..., it's gonna be a bumpy ride =0}
Name: Heather D
Country: Northern Ireland
Sent: 8.31 PM - 4/25 2001
I am glad to see someone else from Larne has registered. That's not too far
from here and is also a ferry port which will take you to Scotland if you're
heading that way. I was starting to worry that our legendary Northern Ireland
hospitality was not quite so legendary after all. So cheers to you and to the
folk in Larne!
Name: Magdalena Fillmore
Country: Australia
Sent: 9.46 AM - 4/25 2001
What a great idea. I'm jelous,too late for me but I back you all the way. Good
on ya mate.
Name: Gabriel Esquivel
Country: Argentina
Sent: 7.33 PM - 4/24 2001
Hello Ramon !
My personal congratulation for you idea. That`s great!
Travelling all around the world is a wonderfull idea and you will never forget
it in your whole life. I got to know about you when I was reading this morning
our most important newspaper, called "Clarin" so, as soon I read it I
decide to write you as soon as I could to offer a place in my home and spend a
funny days in Buenos Aires.
Have a nice staying whenever you are !!! Gabriel
Name: Ana
Country: Argentina
Sent: 2.42 PM - 4/23 2001
Congratulations! You're on the most important newspaper from Argentina.
Name: Monique
Country: Holland
Sent: 12.28 PM - 4/23 2001
I think your idea is great and it takes a lot of courage to make such a trip. I
hope that you have a good time, meet lots of interesting people and that you
will be safe! I can't wait to read your stories.
Have
fun!
Name: Jennifer Dawn
Country: South Korea
Sent: 7.17 AM - 4/23 2001
hey there Ramon! :) Im an English teacher who wishes she had come up with your
idea before you did! :) anyways, I got you covered for south korea, myself, and
many other people here in Korea understand what its like to travel nearly broke
and would love to help you out..
so, how do you like your pillows... firm? or soft?
also, if you let me know ill pick you up somewhere at a reasonable distance...
its all good in the neighborhood. :)
Name: Marjolein
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 1.07 PM - 4/21 2001
Hi Ramon,
I just want to wish you a very good trip, and I'm sure you will meet a lot of
different people all over the world!
Take care and I'll be following you on this site!
Love
Marjolein
Name: Phil
Country: USA
Sent: 12.44 AM - 4/21 2001
Congratulations on a great idea! If your trip is able to match the response on
this web site, you are in for an incredible time. And as a journalist, I guess
you will do a great job documenting this journey for all of us who wish we had
thought of this first! Hope to see you in my home as you travel across the USA!
Name: Dean
Country: USA
Sent: 12.56 AM - 4/17 2001
When you get to the Heartland of America, you can stay with me and my wife.
We'd love to have you.
Name: Inge
Country: Holland
Sent: 6.54 PM - 4/16 2001
GREAT!!!
And
in dutch...ONWIJS VEEL PLEZIER!!!
Groetjes
Inge from Alphen a/d Rijn (I know this place is not interrest when you see the
other places where you can stay. I don´t think that you want to see the Archeon
or Avifauna!)
Name: Annemarie
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 4.39 PM - 4/16 2001
Enjoy your travelling, Ramon. Definitely visit beautifull and friendly
Australia; land of the backpackers!!!!
your
fellow traveller
Name: Felix Slager
Country: Currently Hong Kong; www.justgoeast.com
Sent: 1.13 AM - 4/15 2001
Hi Ramon,
Nice project ! Hope you will enjoy travelling like I do. All the best.
Name: Eric
Country: Netherlands
Sent: 2.30 PM - 4/13 2001
Good luck on your travels, Ramon. And may the best of your past be the worst of
your future.
Eric
Name: Morgan 'Sal'man
Country: USA
Sent: 9.33 AM - 4/13 2001
As soon as you begin the trip, Ramon, I'll be featuring your website and
adventure at www.digihitch.com. This summer is a very exciting time for
hitchhikers on the web! It seems all of us are finally telling our stories and
sharing our vision for online and real time connection. Good luck, and 'may the
road roll on in your soul...'
Name: Fiona Dunne
Country: Cork Ireland
Sent: 11.57 AM - 4/10 2001
Make sure you come and stay in cork with 3 single professionals, great craic
and will be more than happy to show you around!
Name: samantha boyd
Country: england
Sent: 8.34 PM - 4/7 2001
i just have to say that i think wot u r doin is really ccol and i've told all
my friends about your site. i envy you a lot as i have always had a passion for
traveling and hope to travel the world too some day. i am only 16, but am a
member fo the venture scout unit and do alot of traveling, mainly camping with
them. i will be a regular goer to your webb page and look forward to travelling
he world with you!!
bye and good luck, sam
Name: jusongtao
Country: CHINA
Sent: 2.05 PM - 4/7 2001
HI Ramon,
Thank for your letter,I tell you my friend known you.we support you .
Name: Joziena
Country: England
Sent: 12.03 PM - 4/7 2001
Submitted my invite today - we've got some good 'ole dutch homecooking ready if
you drop by. My mother originates from Gouda area and we know you'd appreciate
our warm Yorkshire welcome. Tot ziens!
Name: chrys & rusty
Country: england
Sent: 10.12 PM - 4/6 2001
ramon we think what your doing is ace and we really wish you all the luck in
the world so spread the good vibes around on your travels and come and stay
with us for a while we will follow your progress keep safe
Name: Annette & Martin Gosling
Country: Essex, U.K.
Sent: 10.09 PM - 4/5 2001
Can't wait to hear about all your adventures - in person - when you come and
stay with us. Please do - it is such a brilliant idea. It is possible that your
trip may never end!!
Name: Jayne Williams
Country: Wales
Sent: 5.04 PM - 4/5 2001
Good luck on your journey round the world, don't bypass Wales - the Welsh are
the nicest people in Britain - Even though Ann Robinson says we are'nt. What
does she know anyway! Come and see for yourself, you won't be disappointed!
Take care and may you have a safe and happy journey.
Jayne
Name: Henry Wang
Country: China
Sent: 4.46 PM - 4/5 2001
Ramon,
I love Holland and hope you come to China, and I'm sure you will like it too.
Hope I can host you here in Shenzhen, China.
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 9.55 AM - 4/5 2001
* How long do you think your trip will be?
With so many places I could go my whole trip "could" take up to over
two years...
Name: Abby Wong
Country: China Hong Kong
Sent: 2.44 AM - 4/5 2001
It's a good idea.
Have a special trip!!
Name: chiara
Country: Italy
Sent: 12.48 AM - 4/2 2001
Hi!
My four cats are waiting for you!
It's very beautiful to think that you'll hold a piece of everybody you meet and
every place you see in your mind and bring it all over the world.
I guess you got a real "free" spirit and soul to do all this!
It should be a great example for everybody.
I wish you good luck and a lot of fun.
Name: Tammy Alexander
Country: Sonora CA USA
Sent: 9.00 PM - 3/31 2001
You sure can if you would like to. We live in a wild western town and there is
a lot to do , like gold panning and stage coach riding and hikeing through
Yosemite etc. etc. Tammy
Name: Ramon Stoppelenburg
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 8.53 PM - 3/31 2001
Sonora, California: can I stay any days longer? I get amazed by stories like
this!
Ramon.
Name: Jusongtao
Country: China
Sent: 3.12 PM - 3/31 2001
Dear Ramon,
Now where are you ?My message is not complete,so I decide to rewrite it.Can you
speak Chinese?My E-mail is:wangyueshandong@263.net.
Name: Elisabeth
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 10.59 AM - 3/31 2001
Hallo Ramon.
I think it,s wonderful idea a trip to make around the
World.With a low budged Good Luck.
Name: José
Country: The Netherlands
Sent: 8.44 PM - 3/30 2001
Hi Ramon! It's really nice to see all these messages! From all over the
world.It's a great 'project' and I wish you all the best! Tell the world about
Holland!!
Go for it. Love for everyone, José
Name: Claudio
Country: Chile
Sent: 11.06 PM - 3/28 2001
Yes! "Christopher Columbus" in spanish language is Cristóbal Colón...
Name: angelica
Country: chile
Sent: 7.22 PM - 3/28 2001
Hi Ramon
I like very much your idea is great. I read about your in a paper ,its a first
time that i sound about it.
GOOD LUCK HAVE A GOOD TIME
Name: Lynnie Obermiller
Country: Ireland
Sent: 2.03 AM - 3/28 2001
Good for you Ramon! You will have an unforgettable experience! If you come see
me in Ireland, I will also tell you about Texas because that is where I am from.
I have some books about Texas you can look at. Good luck organizing your
project. (you never expected it to be so popular, did you?)
-Lynnie
Name: Erika Cortez
Country: USA
Sent: 12.37 AM - 3/28 2001
Just as many other people (websites, organizations, companies, etc.) I think
your idea is great. I do not really have the courage though to do what you are
going to partake in. I am sure you are going to have a wonderful time, and I
can not wait to read about your experiences. I wish you well on your expedition
and hope that you get all that you want out of the experience. Have tons of
fun, but be careful!
~Erika
Cortez