Stephen Fry's Great American Adventure

I am fascinated by America. North America in particular. The American road-movie has always appealed to me: the diners, the long, deserted roads, the motels, and the many, many different cultures, climates, and landscapes. Crossing the United States is the ultimate travel adventure.

I have recently been reading Stephen Fry in America, a fascinating travel journal by the “quintessential Englishman” at his quintessential best. Charming, witty, and heart-warmingly pleasing – Stephen Fry zig-zags his way through the 50 states in his traditional London black cab, meeting real people to discover real America.

In the months it took him to travel the States, Fry had the desire to meet everyday people from each State, and get to know what it is really like to be an American citizen. He fishes for Lobster in Maine, hunts in the wilderness of New YorkState, and speaks to victims of Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana.

Not your traditional travelogue – there is little speak of the en-route diners, the beautiful weather in Florida, or the “oh my, I’m driving on the wrong side of the road!” norm. Not that this isn’t an entertaining read on its own – after all, this is what we all think of when we think or dream of travelling America. But Fry’s intention was to see what it is like to live and work as a real-life American citizen – and not to see what it is like to live in America as a travelling Englishman.

He does this with style and aplomb, as he passes through the East Coast, the Deep South, the Rocky Mountains, the Great Plains, through to the stunning lights of Vegas and the glamour of Los Angeles. Through this magnificent 6’4” comedian, poet, actor, writer and explorer, we get a real sense of what it is like to be an American.

In order to partake in such a rigorous adventure – one must have exceptional adoration of the country, and its residents. Time, effort, and planning had obviously gone into the production of the adventure. We all know Stephen Fry as somewhat of a general knowledge genius – and his inspiring knowledge of all that confronts him is intriguingly delightful.

Through the course of the book, we are entertained by history, geography, art, science, political, musical, and literature lessons. Without going into extravagant detail, Fry paints a wonderful picture of the awe inspiring landscapes, and leaves us feeling nothing but warmth and adoration for America and its people.

Want to take a visit? Want to make a similar adventure of your own?

There are various tours available through travel agencies and internet companies, but perhaps making your own journey on your own time, keeping to your own schedule is the way to do it.

An exciting adventure in the world’s most diverse land is something we should all aspire to do.

Or at the very least, I urge you read about it.