Meet the Nomads – Derek Freal of The Holidaze

If you’re looking for a website that could inspire you to travel then look no further and check out The Holidaze. The Holidaze is a multi-author website that aims to give inspire peope to get up and travel, enjoy life and learn a thing or two about various cultures around the world.

The founder of this website is no other than Derek Freal. Derek left his home and career last 2009 to travel around the world. He saved his travel funds while working in IT in US. Aside from managing this website, Derek also offers his services in graphics and website design.

Get to know more about Derek and check out his website – The Holidaze.

But before you leave this page, check out my short interview with Derek.

How did you discover your passion for travelling?

“In 2008 I took a three month leave of absence from my job because I was overworked and needed a break. I moved to Tokyo and during that time discovered not only my love for traveling, but also my passion for Asia and new foods. After returning to work I couldn’t focus and it became clear that I had been bitten by the travel bug. So at the start of 2009 I quit my job and have been traveling ever since.”

What’s the most horrible experience that you’ve had on the road?

“Well as I type this I am currently locked in an immigration detention center in Indonesia awaiting deportation. Why? Because of one tweet — a tweet I deleted five minutes after posting and have since apologized countless times for. Yes, I am the first guy in history to be deported and blacklisted from a country for a tweet.”

What’s the best travel experience that you’ve ever had?

“Partying with Yakuza in Tokyo. That was an amazing few weeks and allowed me to see a completely different side of the most populated metropolis on earth.”

What’s the biggest realization that you’ve got out of traveling?

“That no one country does everything right. We have much to learn from each other if people would just leave race, religion, and politics out of the equation.”

What keeps you going? What keeps you motivated?

Well for starters I don’t have any family so there is nothing really calling me back ‘home’ and since all my childhood friends are married and have families now, they’re often too busy to hang out, drink a beer and chit-chat. The last few times I was back in the States I kept thinking ‘why am I even here?'”

Beyond that my biggest motivation is the lyrics from Circle Of Life, a song in The Lion King: “There is more to see than can ever be seen, more to do than can ever be done…”

“Ever since I first heard those lyrics I knew that is how I wanted to live my life — seeing and doing all that I can.”

This is a silly and hypothetical one. If you would be given a chance to travel with a popular person or a celebrity, who would it be and why?

“Sean Connery. Every women he has ever met says he is really as suave and sophisticated as James Bond. I would love to have the chance to chat with him and pick up some tips ;)”

Where’s your favorite place in this planet and why?

“Even after more than five years exploring it is still Tokyo, Japan. That city is comprised of 23 wards, many with ten or more districts. Each district also has a different vibe, a different feel. For example Akihabara is the electronics district, Harajuku is the fashion district, Roppongi is the tourist district, Asakusa is the temple district, and Shibuya is the shopping/nightlife district. As such there are always new places to explore there and amazing sights to enjoy. Oh and did I mention the food? Delicious!”

What’s your best tip for newbie traveler?

“Sometimes no plan is often the best plan. Just have a few days free in a city, make friends with some locals, and see where it leads. All of my best adventures have been spontaneous ones with newfound friends.”

What’s the funniest and silliest thing you’ve ever done while travelling?

“Pangat Pinang. It is where a team of guys build a human totem pole to ascend a greased up pole and try to obtain the prizes at the top. [ The story and a photo gallery are on my blog: .

How do you fund your travels?

“I did IT work, often 80-100 hours a week, for five years. I had a very limited social life and no time to spend any of the money. So when I quit I decided to go wild and make up for all the time I had lost. Then in 2011 my best friend pointed out that my money wasn’t going to last forever and I needed a fresh source of income. So I started travel blogging. I also do web design / tech support on the side for fellow travel bloggers at a deeply discounted rate.”

How do you keep yourself safe on your travels?

“I’ve never really thought about this. Technically I do all the things you aren’t supposed to — wander through ghettos, wear nice clothes or an expensive watch, etc etc — but so far I’ve been very fortunate in my explorations. I also trust Twitter and frequently let me followers make decisions for me, such as where I should go or who I should meet up with.”

What do you think about yourself?

“I think that I am a lost soul, used to being alone my entire life, who is still wandering looking for somewhere (or someone) to complete me. Maybe one day that place or person will present themselves, but for now the road keeps on calling.”

“The HoliDaze documents one man’s attempts at traveling the world and immersing himself in local culture. It features a mix of budget and luxury travel with a fondness for getting off the beaten path, usually via motorcycle. In addition, it also provides advice for others thinking of becoming a travel blogger, as well as a monthly award given to the .” – Derek Freal

Editor’s Note: All pics are provided by Derek.