Shallow pools of rainwater collect in smooth, sculpted sandstone basins at South Coyote Buttes, reflecting the soft glow of twilight. In the distance, orange and red rock formations rise dramatically, lit by the last light of day in a remote desert wilderness.

Reading Paria Canyon

Paria Canyon isn't just sandstone and water—it's a reminder of why we read, and what's lost when we don't.

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Experience Erik Gauger's Immersive Travel Writing and Photography

"Unexpected frontier of the travel blogosphere"

BOSTON GLOBE

An Independent Travelogue

Since 1999, Notes from the Road has provided a unique and experimental voice on travel, inviting readers to join in the journey and see the world through a new lens.

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An Independent Travelogue - Notes from the Road

"Be Inspired!"

LONELY PLANET

Photos of the Doors and Windows of the World

Doors And Windows Of The World

Discover the World's Most Beautiful Doors and Windows, showcasing breathtaking photographs of the most vibrant and unique doors and windows from around the world.

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"The Best Looking Blog We've Seen"

Forbes Magazine

A narrow Seoul alley at night glows with overlapping signage, neon light, and cluttered facades. Korean characters light the path where pedestrians wander beneath dangling wires and the buzz of city life.
Travel Blogger of the Year

"Beautiful, Edge To Edge."

- Craig Federighi, Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, at the 2017 Apple Keynote Address.

Apple featured Notes from the Road to introduce the Apple iPhone X, another example of how we have been innovating the look and feel of the future of the web here at our little travel blog.

"Sumptuous Site"

Time Magazine

Roam

I don't give travel advice but sharing our experiences can help us learn from each other. Here are some of my latest travel stories on organization.

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Roam Travelogue
  • Sketch of Korean Palace

    Korea Sketch Journal

    Drawings, field notes, and sketches from cities, coastlines, and countryside in Korea.
  • Bahama Yellowthroat Bird Sketch

    My List of
    Life Birds

    An updated list of every species of bird I’ve seen in my travels, with sketches and drawings.
  • Moleskine Travel Journals

    Moleskine Travel Journals

    Look inside my travel moleskine journals, which I use to make notes and reference my itinerary.
  • Rock of Gibraltar Apes

    Ernest & THE
    Apes of Gibraltar

    Notes on Gibraltar and its famous macaques, plus an interview with one of their protectors.
  • Adriatic Sea Map

    Adriatic Sea Map

    Discover the beauty of the Adriatic Sea with Erik Gauger's handpainted map.
  • Map of Abaco Islands

    Map of Abaco Islands

    My Copic and watercolor map of the Great Abaco and Little Abaco in the Northern Bahamas
A translucent Glass Frog clings to a green leaf in the rainforest of Panama, its delicate body revealing organs beneath its luminous skin. Dewdrops bead across the surface, amplifying the frog's fragile and otherworldly appearance in this close-up jungle portrait.

"Detailed hand drawings and sumptuous photographic images"

Washington Post

About Erik Gauger

Learn about me in the 'About' section, where I talk about the history of Notes from the Road as an experimental travelogue. Check out my list of great road trip music by Grateful Dead and Phish. I also keep a bird life list, as well as lifelists for butterflies, fishes, damselflies and dragonflies, reptiles and amphibians.

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Erik Gauger: author of Notes from the Road

"Stands out for Hard Journalism"

Lowell Thomas Awards in 2012

Cacti of the United States

Cacti of the United States

Explore my comprehensive guide to the cactuses of the United States. Hand-drawn sketches of every species found with U.S. borders, including those of the islands and territories.

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"Best of the Travel Blogs"

National Geographic Traveller

Travel Sketches & Maps

I illustrate my travel blog with sketches using markers, watercolors, pens, and pencils. Sketches and journals can capture a place's essence better than photos, offering a personal, subjective illustration through the traveler's mood and perspective.

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Hand-drawn Sketches and Maps

"Drop dead gorgeous, thanks to Gauger's prowess with his old school 4×5"

Rolf Potts, Vagablogging.net

Ancient Improvisation in Paros

Ancient Improvisation in Paros

On the Greek Island of Paros, I explore whether a musical improvisation master could have built up a following in the ancient Mediterranean.

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"Do you like gorgeous photography and unconventional travel writing?"

Sixt.com

Tikehau in the Tuamotus

On the small French Polynesian atoll of Tikehau, I discover a ringworld of life.

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Tikehau in the Tuamotus
Fishing boats float in the serene harbor of Naoussa, Paros, their hulls casting colorful reflections on the still Aegean water. The Cycladic architecture glows in early morning light, with whitewashed walls and blue accents framing the peaceful scene.