Vicente Blasco Ibáñez was a literary rockstar in Spain by the 1920s. Instead of writing his next novel from a quiet study, he bought a ticket on a world cruise. This book is the first part of that true story.

The Story

The journey kicks off in New York, a city of dizzying ambition that both impresses and overwhelms him. He boards a ship bound for California via the Panama Canal, finding himself in the curious world of first-class travel. His fellow passengers are a cast of characters: wealthy industrialists, hopeful socialites, and world-weary travelers. Ibáñez acts as our witty, sometimes cynical, guide. He documents the birth of modern Los Angeles, a place of sunshine, oranges, and relentless real estate speculation. From there, he sails into the vast Pacific. His first major stop is Japan, where he is captivated by the contrast between ancient tradition and frantic modernization. The volume closes as he pushes further into Asia, leaving us eager for the next leg of his trip.

Why You Should Read It

What makes this book special is Ibáñez's voice. He's not a neutral reporter. He's full of strong opinions, romanticism, and a novelist's eye for detail. You feel his awe at the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal and his mixed feelings about America's booming culture. His descriptions of Japan are not just about landscapes, but about the feeling of being a stranger in a deeply elegant society. Reading this is like sitting with a brilliant, slightly grumpy, but endlessly curious friend who just returned from an epic trip. He connects the dots between places and ideas in a way that feels fresh, even today. It’s a snapshot of the world at a pivotal moment, seen through a very personal lens.

Final Verdict

This is perfect for anyone who loves travel writing, history, or just a great story told by a compelling personality. If you enjoy books like Bill Bryson's where the author's perspective is half the fun, you'll love Ibáñez. It's for readers who want to be transported—not just to 1920s Havana or Yokohama—but into the mind of a fascinating writer watching the world change. A truly immersive escape.