James Parsons

CURRENT MISSION To eat unusual things, meet unusual people, and see unusual places. And to help where I can. ABOUT ME I went to NZ to see something different, learn about a different culture, and make new friends...and then I stayed....for 8 wonderful years. Here's what else I've been up to (from now, to the past) 2022 - Europe travel in the summer and NZ in Dec for a wedding. 2021 - Went back to NZ for 4 Covid free months 2020 - Travelled in my Airstream to Yellowstone and Florida. 2019 - Worked in DC for a few months. Apr 2018 - Left work to volunteer/travel. May 2017 - Visit old connections in Europe Mar 2014 - Moved to Austin, TX Feb 2014 - Savannah Dec 2013 - NY, NJ, Philly Nov 2013 - Costa Rica and Panama Sep 2013 - Austin, TX to visit July 2013 - Belgium and surrounding areas for a friends wedding and music festivals. June 2013 - Florida to see friends and family May 2013 - Travel around Europe to see old friends and make new friends. Aug 2012 - April 2013 - I was working on a yacht, in the South of France. Jan - July 2012 - Sailing around the Atlantic. Nov 2011 - Left my IT job in New Zealand, to pursue yachting. 2009 - I did a 6 month trip around the world, CouchSurfing for much of it. 2004 - Moved to New Zealand, from Florida. Other stuff: I've always enjoyed making jokes and joking around with people. I actually gave stand-up a go a few times since moving to NZ. Sure it's been a little scary, but I had nothing to lose and it's a great experience! (and I've discovered my sense of humour is more British than American) I haven't done a gig since Nov 06, but I'm seriously thinking about doing it again when I get back from my travels. Pets: I love animals, so don't worry about having me around them. One person even called me the 'cat whisperer' because I was able to coax their very shy cat to sit on my lap. PHILOSOPHY I think we can all do a small part to help make the world a better place. I've volunteered quite a bit, and really enjoy the sense of achievement you get from helping others. And my travelling philosophy - to avoid the touristy things, and get to know the people that make the place what it is.