Riley Roamer Guides

Riley Roamer Guides, the brainchild of Peter O. Riley, has become synonymous with immersive, responsible travel. But the journey to creating this renowned series of guidebooks began long before Peter ever set foot on foreign soil. Growing up in a small coastal town in Maine, Peter's world was initially bounded by the Atlantic Ocean and dense pine forests. Yet his imagination roamed far beyond these borders, fueled by a library card and an insatiable curiosity about distant lands and cultures. It was this early fascination that would eventually lead him to create one of the most respected names in travel literature. After earning a degree in Cultural Anthropology from Dartmouth College, Peter embarked on what was meant to be a year-long backpacking trip across Europe. That year turned into five, as he found himself drawn into the stories of the people he met and the places he explored. From tending bar in a tiny Irish village to volunteering at an archaeological dig in Greece, each experience deepened his understanding of the transformative power of travel. Returning to the States with a wealth of experiences and a notebook full of observations, Peter began contributing to various travel publications. His unique voice – a blend of cultural insight, practical advice, and storytelling flair – quickly caught the attention of editors and readers alike. Features in National Geographic Traveler and Condé Nast Traveler followed, establishing him as a fresh voice in travel writing. However, Peter found himself increasingly frustrated with the limitations of traditional guidebooks and travel media. He envisioned a new kind of guide – one that would not only provide practical information but also capture the soul of a destination and promote responsible tourism. This vision led to the birth of Riley Roamer Guides in 2012. Named after his grandmother Riley, who first instilled in him a love of stories and faraway places, the guides quickly gained a devoted following. Readers appreciated the blend of deep cultural insights, off-the-beaten-path discoveries, and commitment to sustainable travel practices. The New York Times called the series "a game-changer in travel literature," praising its ability to inspire mindful exploration. Today, Riley Roamer Guides covers destinations across six continents, with Peter personally overseeing research and writing for each new addition to the series. He's a frequent speaker at travel industry conferences, where he advocates for responsible tourism and the importance of cultural exchange. When not on the road, Peter divides his time between Portland, Oregon, and a small cottage on the Maine coast where he grew up. He's an avid sailor, a passionate cook (often recreating dishes from his travels), and a dedicated mentor to young writers and travelers from underrepresented backgrounds. Through Riley Roamer Guides, Peter continues to share his belief that thoughtful travel can be a force for good in the world – broadening perspectives, supporting local communities, and fostering global understanding. Each guide is an invitation to not just visit a place, but to truly connect with it. As Peter often says, "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page. Our guides are here to help you read the whole story."