Hello,

My name is Marta. I'm traveling and doing field research for my Master of Art thesis on the backpackers' journals (in particular) and all other forms of recording reality (in general) by contemporary nomands: travelers, backpackers and tourists. I would like to know more about what inspires them, their favourite books and movies, their dreams, their plans, their background and worldview, as well as all the things that make them a community, such as CouchSurfing, Hospitality Club, Servas, and the ubiquitous presence of Lonely Planet in their hands.

My basic research concerns pen-on-paper travel journals, diaries written by hand during traveling (which includes all forms of artistic expression: sketches, drawings, comics, paintings, poems and so on). However, I would also write about all the digital forms of recording journeys: travelogues, photography, blogs, facebook groups, newsletters, etc.

Since October 2010 I've taken a gap year to travel. I began my research in Chiang Mai, Thailand. In January 2011 I moved to Mexico City. I'm currently collecting e-mail addresses from people writing travel journals, in order to send them a questionnaire upon my arrival to Poland (August 2011).

Your contribution would be most appreciated. I promise to answer all the messages I get. If you have something to share with me about the backpackers' subculture or if you want to help me - feel free to contact me. If you are in Mexico City I'd be happy to meet you in person and talk. I'm curious about everything you want to share with me.

My e-mail: marta.kostulska@gmail.com
My Skype: wrozka-zebuszka