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When in ROAM: A Comedy Travel Adventure Memoir
California girl Pam heads off to Africa for a 3 month backpacking journey in the 1990's. She then accidentally continues traveling around the world SOLO for years. She backpacks through South Africa, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, all throughout Indonesia- Sumatra, Java, Bali, Lombok, and the smaller islands- and continues on to work in Australia and New Zealand. Follow her adventures as she fumbles her way into EVERYTHING. Sarcastic and optimistic at all the wrong moments, she will keep you laughing as she learns things that you probably already know. She sidesteps dangerous situations from wacky weirdos to wild animals, from mother nature to social awkwardness. She gets caught in cultural awakenings at the most inopportune of times. She explores the globe as she explores new sides of herself with extreme sports, mind altering intoxicants, quirky fun friendships, and even in romance. Pam knows nothing when it comes to world politics, religions, science, ancient ruins, even conspiracy theories, the paranormal, and yep, UFO's. Pam is open to all cultures- the good, the bad, and the ugly. And most importantly the wonderful, the mysterious, and the magical. Does she learn about herself? Does she learn about the world? Does Pam learn ANYTHING at all? Come adventuring with her...
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2020
49 people are currently reading
382 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 12, 2021
Wow. Amazing. As I was reading this, I think back to what I was doing in 1995- married, with 2 kids. 25 year old me relates to the willingness to go, see, do, have adventures, although my biggest adventure at that point was going grocery shopping with 2 babies. I found myself a bit envious of Pam's travel.
50 year old me, reading this from the comfort of my living room, sitting by the fire, with a cold drink...I cannot imagine being so carefree, lol. Every time Pam goes to a new location, meets a new stranger and stays with them, the mom is me is screaming that that's how stories of every serial killer movie/book start! I absolutely LOVED this book.
50 year old me, reading this from the comfort of my living room, sitting by the fire, with a cold drink...I cannot imagine being so carefree, lol. Every time Pam goes to a new location, meets a new stranger and stays with them, the mom is me is screaming that that's how stories of every serial killer movie/book start! I absolutely LOVED this book.
May 11, 2021
I think I just met myself from a parallel universe.. where I am hotter and funnier with a way cooler backdrop.
This book has become life goals.. (Although substitute Indonesia for Europe)
What a funny, well paced, quick read into the amazing adventures a person can have... if they just leap (or get pushed)!
This book has become life goals.. (Although substitute Indonesia for Europe)
What a funny, well paced, quick read into the amazing adventures a person can have... if they just leap (or get pushed)!
December 26, 2020
As I sit here in the middle of the Coronavirus pandemic 2020 has thrown our way I find myself yearning to be touring the world once again and so here I am immersing myself in other people's escapades in a bid to stem the ache!
What an honest, personal, exhilarating, comical book on the adventures of a solo traveller - a wonderful read for both those hoping to find some inspiration / encouragement to hit the road and experienced nomads alike!
Having spent the majority of the past five years on the road myself (also throughout Asia / NZ / Australia), reading this book felt a little like having a warm hot chocolate and a catch up with a friend. Found myself smiling and reminiscing on so many occasions! Pamdiana certainly reminds me of myself in some parts, particularly with her spontaneous travel decisions; I'm a pro at buying plane tickets then deciding I can't possibly bring myself to leave a place / making spur of the moment decisions which land me in a different country hours later, in fact it's become a running joke amongst my friends now!
For anybody reading this wondering whether to take the leap and book that one way ticket, DO IT - '"This travelling solo thing is really working out. I haven't been alone for five minutes since I started travelling" alone".' - Never a truer word spoken. It will be the best decision you ever make. I only came home earlier this year for my friend's weddings - 5 over the summer, I kid you not and the worst part is they were blinking CANCELLED! - and found myself stuck here due to the current climate. I'll be on the first plane back to NZ just as soon as the borders allow. Good luck, stay safe and HAVE FUN!
What an honest, personal, exhilarating, comical book on the adventures of a solo traveller - a wonderful read for both those hoping to find some inspiration / encouragement to hit the road and experienced nomads alike!
Having spent the majority of the past five years on the road myself (also throughout Asia / NZ / Australia), reading this book felt a little like having a warm hot chocolate and a catch up with a friend. Found myself smiling and reminiscing on so many occasions! Pamdiana certainly reminds me of myself in some parts, particularly with her spontaneous travel decisions; I'm a pro at buying plane tickets then deciding I can't possibly bring myself to leave a place / making spur of the moment decisions which land me in a different country hours later, in fact it's become a running joke amongst my friends now!
For anybody reading this wondering whether to take the leap and book that one way ticket, DO IT - '"This travelling solo thing is really working out. I haven't been alone for five minutes since I started travelling" alone".' - Never a truer word spoken. It will be the best decision you ever make. I only came home earlier this year for my friend's weddings - 5 over the summer, I kid you not and the worst part is they were blinking CANCELLED! - and found myself stuck here due to the current climate. I'll be on the first plane back to NZ just as soon as the borders allow. Good luck, stay safe and HAVE FUN!
February 8, 2023
I'm so glad Pam suggested her book on a Facebook post I made!! This book gave me shivers, laughs and even some tears. I felt like I was living through her experiences firsthand, vicariously. so glad I gave it a chance !! I look forward to more!!
March 27, 2025
love to read books by fellow adventurers. If you enjoyed my adventure travel memoir “Amazon Hitchhiker” you will want to read “When in Roam” by Pamdiana Jones' fun travel memoir reminded me of my solo backpacking adventures. “When in Roam” details not only the amusing highs of her travels but also the challenges of being away from family, working in a foreign country and dealing with unwanted situations. She reveals the special world of spontaneous relationships that develop with world travelers when they meet in foreign countries. I recommend this book for anyone who has or is considering traveling on their own.
Alycin HAyes
Alycin HAyes
March 5, 2023
I liked many of the travel stories, and I felt a lot of empathy for her as she adjusted to being back in the States after so long traveling.
But, I don’t think the writing great, especially in the second half of the book. It read less like a narrative memoir and more like journal pages copied into the manuscript.
Some of the tales frustrated me- like when the author and friends blatantly disregarded safety advice from locals. Frankly, she’s lucky she’s alive after a few misguided decisions. I know travel is often about adventure, and I think it is prudent to listen to locals about valid safety concerns.
But, I don’t think the writing great, especially in the second half of the book. It read less like a narrative memoir and more like journal pages copied into the manuscript.
Some of the tales frustrated me- like when the author and friends blatantly disregarded safety advice from locals. Frankly, she’s lucky she’s alive after a few misguided decisions. I know travel is often about adventure, and I think it is prudent to listen to locals about valid safety concerns.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2021
So much fun and adventure!
This book was a pure delight and surpassed my expectations. It had countless hilarious situations that had me giggling. Giant lizards, giant bugs, giant spiders. Her softness comes out with adorable baby elephants, and cute monkeys. There are distressing events that she escaped by a hair's breadth. And it was really heart-warming for me to read so many situations where men were kind, generous and protective.
There were a few typos, and the pop culture references and deliberate humour didn't always hit home for me. But those things were insignificant to the overall book which is brilliant. It's pure, heartfelt, funny, sad and jam packed with adventure.
This lady chases fun, has a warm heart, and must be someone special to have been welcomed into the lives of so many strangers. Thank you Pam, for sharing your amazing adventures.
This book was a pure delight and surpassed my expectations. It had countless hilarious situations that had me giggling. Giant lizards, giant bugs, giant spiders. Her softness comes out with adorable baby elephants, and cute monkeys. There are distressing events that she escaped by a hair's breadth. And it was really heart-warming for me to read so many situations where men were kind, generous and protective.
There were a few typos, and the pop culture references and deliberate humour didn't always hit home for me. But those things were insignificant to the overall book which is brilliant. It's pure, heartfelt, funny, sad and jam packed with adventure.
This lady chases fun, has a warm heart, and must be someone special to have been welcomed into the lives of so many strangers. Thank you Pam, for sharing your amazing adventures.
March 15, 2021
REVIEW: When In Roam by Pamdiana Jones
Just finished the hilarious new book, When In Roam, and I am truly sad it had to end!
Chronicling Pam’s traveling adventures (mostly solo!) all over the world, each new city brings new friendships, outrageous characters and wonderful adventures. You will not believe the diverse people she meets and the situations she gets herself into!
However, this is not simply a travel diary. This is a book about beautiful people and relationships.
Pam is a natural storyteller, and her self-effacing approach is both refreshing and relatable, as she puts you in the moment, and allows you to share the bold experiences with her - lascivious figures, cultural clashes, culinary differences (would I eat that?), risky endeavors, third-world danger, unbelievable scenery, plenty of mishaps, and many rich connections that last a lifetime.
This book gives you the itch to travel internationally, discover new cultures, and explore the world outside your comfort zone. It makes you want to create your OWN adventures.
Highly recommended.
Just finished the hilarious new book, When In Roam, and I am truly sad it had to end!
Chronicling Pam’s traveling adventures (mostly solo!) all over the world, each new city brings new friendships, outrageous characters and wonderful adventures. You will not believe the diverse people she meets and the situations she gets herself into!
However, this is not simply a travel diary. This is a book about beautiful people and relationships.
Pam is a natural storyteller, and her self-effacing approach is both refreshing and relatable, as she puts you in the moment, and allows you to share the bold experiences with her - lascivious figures, cultural clashes, culinary differences (would I eat that?), risky endeavors, third-world danger, unbelievable scenery, plenty of mishaps, and many rich connections that last a lifetime.
This book gives you the itch to travel internationally, discover new cultures, and explore the world outside your comfort zone. It makes you want to create your OWN adventures.
Highly recommended.
February 18, 2022
Loved it!!! Excellent read for anyone with a sense of humor, an adventurous spirit, and an inquiring mind. I expected a funny book and 'When in Roam' absolutely delivered. I found myself unable to put it down, curious about what shenanigans would unfold next as I laughed so hard that I straight cried. What I didn't expect was such an open, honest evaluation of everything she encountered. In between hilarious moments, you get to come along as the author learns more, not only about the places she visits but about the people who live there as well. She lays out her own biases and naivete, while also taking the time to explore views others may quickly judge and dismiss. After reading this book I felt like I had both a renewed hope in humanity and a realistic look at our shortcomings. How many books give you both?! I laughed till I cried, and cried while I learned- about Pam, about myself, about all of US.
May 30, 2021
I've only recently started reading travel memoirs and boy am I'm hooked!
When in Roam by Pamdiana Jones is absolutely brilliant and she tells the story of her adventures as she travelled the best and most fascinating places in the world. It begins in Africa and ends in Australia as she takes us along with her to interesting and sometimes daunting places.
I loved every page, every word. I wish I could have been brave enough to do this back in the 90's, apart from the bungee jumping and the sky-diving. Nothing would persuade me to even consider that!
I loved how she mixed with people, learning their cultures and their traditions, working and partying along with them and making friends along the way.
This is a funny, interesting and, occasionally, frightening story and one I didn't want to end.
I'm going to have to read it again. And again. And, most likely, again.
When in Roam by Pamdiana Jones is absolutely brilliant and she tells the story of her adventures as she travelled the best and most fascinating places in the world. It begins in Africa and ends in Australia as she takes us along with her to interesting and sometimes daunting places.
I loved every page, every word. I wish I could have been brave enough to do this back in the 90's, apart from the bungee jumping and the sky-diving. Nothing would persuade me to even consider that!
I loved how she mixed with people, learning their cultures and their traditions, working and partying along with them and making friends along the way.
This is a funny, interesting and, occasionally, frightening story and one I didn't want to end.
I'm going to have to read it again. And again. And, most likely, again.
September 21, 2020
What a wonderful wonderful read. I enjoyed every moment (except one). A Travel Book yes, but also an inspirational and heart warming story, oh - and funny.
The author’s voice is quite unique and then I realised, she is speaking directly to me!
Inspirational? Again yes - I spent as much time remembering my own adventures, being prompted by Pamdiana’s.
The part I didn’t like? You guessed it - saying goodbye to Pam on the last page. Now I know how her companions must have felt when she moved on.
Go Girl! Onia Fox
The author’s voice is quite unique and then I realised, she is speaking directly to me!
Inspirational? Again yes - I spent as much time remembering my own adventures, being prompted by Pamdiana’s.
The part I didn’t like? You guessed it - saying goodbye to Pam on the last page. Now I know how her companions must have felt when she moved on.
Go Girl! Onia Fox
January 25, 2021
This is the perfect book to read during a pandemic! You can live vicariously through Pam. She goes on some amazing adventures, shares knowledge of other cultures and has a fantastic sense of humor and adventure. I will say, I had a bit of trouble getting into it. I think that’s mostly because I don’t read many memoirs. But once I got going, I was hooked. If you’re looking for something fun and adventurous, check this book out!
March 4, 2021
Such a fun read! Pam had me laughing out loud in every adventure. I felt like I was right there with her, dancing in bars in foreign countries, snorkeling with sharks, and bungee... falling. It only made me wish I had done more traveling myself. Thank goodness I could live vicariously through Pam's book!
And no, I don't know Pam personally. But I feel like I know her well enough to be on a first name basis now ;)
And no, I don't know Pam personally. But I feel like I know her well enough to be on a first name basis now ;)
September 26, 2020
If there was ever a book to lift your spirits during a pandemic lockdown - then it must be When In Roam. Pamdiana will whisk you away to a better, happier place. The NHS should be prescribing this gem.
June 20, 2021
Just finished reading this book what an amazing funny read about this authors travels
Very entertaining read could not put it down once I started reading.
Will be looking forward to more to come from Pam
Very entertaining read could not put it down once I started reading.
Will be looking forward to more to come from Pam
January 23, 2022
Yes yes and more yes! A kindred soul on this huge ball. You are transported into her journey from the start and you don’t stop until the last page. Excellent writing with a rarity for nitty gritty truth.
August 22, 2022
Oh, how I wish I could start packing my bag and set out on adventures like this. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of reading Pam's adventures, from the fun to the heartache. I only wish there had been pictures so we could see all of the faces and places we've read about.
August 15, 2023
So glad I saw her comment in a FB Group! This was such an awesome read! Had me feeling all of the emotions from her travels (crying, laughing, even terrified) like the bungee jumping?! I now have much added to my bucket list! You’re awesome!
October 25, 2020
This was a very enjoyable travelogue especially in the times of covid. It reminded me of a lot of my travels in my early 20s and it was a great armchair travel experience.
October 30, 2020
Great read and page turner.
Reading it is like being there for parts of it...(😈)
Absolutely recommend it!
Reading it is like being there for parts of it...(😈)
Absolutely recommend it!
February 8, 2021
Absolutely loved this book ! Couldn’t put it down ‘til I finished ! Can’t wait for the next one !
January 1, 2022
Loved every second of her adventures and her humor. I was sad when this was over. If you love travel, this book is for you!
February 6, 2022
Fun read full of laughs and oh no don't do that.
73 year old great grandma is saying go girl live your life but oh my.
Be aware it is R rated
73 year old great grandma is saying go girl live your life but oh my.
Be aware it is R rated
October 1, 2020
A must read book if you want to see the world through a brave & beautiful backpacker's eyes eho has been candid about her adventures so that we can laugh with her as she looks back to those days. Could not start any other book until I finished this.
March 1, 2021
Beyond adventurous! While I began reading this but ok I couldn’t help but think, ‘I could never travel like that and I could absolutely never travel alone!’ After reading, I feel like maybe I could...just perhaps. I enjoyed reading, “When in Roam.” I wonder if the author ever went to Guam. I’d like to go there. I think I’d like to read more about the author’s adventures.
June 12, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. The author told her story as she lived it. The good, the bad, the fun, the boring, the ugly .. all of it. Which is what made it so interesting. She didn't skip on details or pretend to be someone or something she isn't.
She did make me wish I'd traveled more when I was younger. What a brave girl (or perhaps naïve) with some seriously dumb luck! I'll be checking to see what else she has written.
She did make me wish I'd traveled more when I was younger. What a brave girl (or perhaps naïve) with some seriously dumb luck! I'll be checking to see what else she has written.
September 1, 2022
I loved this book. It’s well-written and full of fun adventures. And it has just enough philosophy and deep thoughts to make it a filling meal. Thanks for sharing your story with us, Pam.
February 15, 2024
Hilarious travel memoir. Highly recommend. I hope she continued to travel and she does write those other books! I'll be getting them as well. Read it. It will make you want to travel too!
December 28, 2020
Pam’s fearless adventures and charming humor kept me turning the pages. Thanks for the fun!
April 9, 2022
Traveling Treasures
Enjoyed this author’s adventures to places a bit out of the ordinary such as Bali; New Zealand, Australia,Africa among others. If I ever traveled to any of these places I would use this book as an “insiders” travel guide. Also enjoyed listening to the recommended songs per chapter( via my Alexa Sonos) : Going to add most to a new playlist. Well done.
Enjoyed this author’s adventures to places a bit out of the ordinary such as Bali; New Zealand, Australia,Africa among others. If I ever traveled to any of these places I would use this book as an “insiders” travel guide. Also enjoyed listening to the recommended songs per chapter( via my Alexa Sonos) : Going to add most to a new playlist. Well done.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews