We’re excited to say that Oh Hey World is now live! For now, Oh Hey World is a multi-author backpacking and travel blog focused on Generation X & Y with the goal of connecting those who share a passion for traversing the globe and providing valuable information to those travelers. But let’s be clear from the outset, Oh Hey World is going to be much more than just a multi-author backpacking blog in the long run. There are so many players in the travel industry, yet in our minds the backpacking niche is one that has not been solved by anyone. Backpacking should be simpler and more social — and that’s what we’re going to set out to do. We don’t have all the answers yet, but we’re confident if we build what backpackers want and enable a more social experience for those on the travel trail, we’ll succeed. If you have ideas or suggestions for us related to what you’d like to see from a website devoted to backpackers and their ventures throughout the world, leave them for us in the suggestions section of the Oh Hey World forum.

What type of content can you expect to see here on Oh Hey World? Reviews of destinations such as Paris, Hong Kong, Cinque Terre, and Santorini (which happens to be where I am right now) from a backpackers perspective. Stories about what backpacking and traveling has meant to people and how experiencing foreign cultures have changed people’s lives for the better. First hand experiences from those who have lived abroad and immersed themselves in the local scene. The funniest experiences people have had while traveling the globe. Travel and life insights from wondering nomads (such as myself) who make their money online with nothing more than a laptop. Anything relevant to a backpacker is fair game for this blog.

I’m a firm believer in the importance of understanding the “why” behind any decision. So, why are Andrew Mattie and I starting Oh Hey World? With my passion for traveling and blogging, I’ve been wanting to start a travel blog for quite some time. Particularly since I’m on the traveling trail for the foreseeable future, there’s no better time than now to do it since I’m interacting with other backpackers on a daily basis. And, as I stated earlier in this post, I don’t think any player in the backpacking niche has truly built a fantastic experience online for backpackers. I understand the basics of code and can hack things together in WordPress, but I’m by no means a developer and I wanted to do this project with someone who can handle all the technical components of the site so I can focus on the business side of the equation. I’ve known Andrew for close to 4 years and he’s a fantastic developer, extremely self motivated, and passionate about what he does, which is exactly what I’m looking for in a business partner. Additionally, those who know me know I’m extremely passionate about helping others. Luckily, and not unintentionally, I found a business partner (and close friend) in Andrew who feels the same as I do that life should be about more than simply making money. Oh Hey World will be a socially conscious business and donate 10% of all advertising revenue to charities.

We have a few things up our sleeve, and will certainly post updates as we make improvements and changes and build the core Oh Hey World feature set. Remember, if you have ideas or suggestions for us, be sure to leave them in our backpacking forum or in the comments here. We’re all ears on what needs to be improved to get the most out of your backpacking and travel experiences!

We’re looking forward to this journey and look forward to meeting – virtually or in person – many of the thousands upon thousands of backpackers traveling the globe!