Traveling without Reservations

About the Book

Jean and Michael Gerber did what most of us only dream of doing. They sold their house, quit their jobs, and started an incredible and unforeseen journey. In Traveling without Reservations, Jean shares the story of traveling the world with her husband.

For two years, using the Greek Isles as a base, the couple crisscrossed Europe and the Middle East, learning as much about themselves as the exotic destinations they explored. In vivid journal entries, Jean chronicles their travels to countries including Turkey, Switzerland, Italy, and Israel, recording the astonishing sights and rituals, the variety of sanitation arrangements, the hikes and camping, the burros and camels and sheep, and the quirks of their semi-trusty Subaru minibus.

Traveling without Reservations gives a playful account of the unexpected twists and turns life takes when traveling without fixed plans—adapting to new languages, cultures, and customs; embracing the energy of an eclectic mix of people; enjoying a myriad of culinary delights; and learning to give up control.

“An enchanting read, fueled not only by Jean Gerber’s irrepressible and irreverent humor, but also by her extraordinary ability to connect with and celebrate the many faces of human nature. Her account of her travels through Europe and the Middle East is earthy, joyful, sometimes poignant, and always hilarious. I loved it!”—Franny Billingsley, National Book Award Finalist

“It’s an adventure from beginning to end—full of color and life. I couldn’t put it down.”—Mittie Babette Roger, author of Aurora

About the Author

Jean Gerber, a New York native, moved to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, in 2002. She served for several years as executive director of Casita Linda, a nonprofit organization that builds homes for families living in extreme poverty. An equestrian, a devout yoga practitioner, and a member of the San Miguel Literary Sala, Jean continues to live without reservations.