The road has always had my attention.
My journey began in Germany—and, as the family story goes, I was born on the road in an ambulance. My first flight was in a helicopter when I was still an infant. Travel has had a way of finding me ever since.
Growing up, I watched Anthony Bourdain and the Travel Channel, dreaming about the places and people beyond my own neighborhood. That curiosity stayed with me.
I spent 18 years working in transportation. For six of those years, I was rarely in one place for more than four days at a time. It taught me to stay organized, pack well, make a plan, and adapt when plans change.
In the fall of 2019, I left my job and moved to Thailand. Later, I found a way to work remotely and keep exploring. Travel became more than a vacation: it became a way to learn, connect, and look at familiar things differently.
Living with hidden disabilities – a persistent herniated disk and the unexpected diagnosis of pericarditis (inflammation of the heart) in 2022 – has taught me resilience. While some days may be tougher than others, I've learned the importance of understanding my limits and planning wisely to make the most of each adventure.
“Wide-eyed Wes” started as an inside joke because my eyes always seemed to be closed in photos. The curiosity behind the name is real. I still get excited about a new place, a new route, or a conversation with someone whose life looks different from mine.
WorldWideyedWes is where I share firsthand stories, practical travel advice, and what I’ve learned about geography and planning along the way. I’ve also expanded into trip planning and non-medical flight companion services for travelers who would rather not make a journey alone.
If you’re planning a trip—or need someone beside you on a flight—I’d love to hear where you’re headed.