Silk Road Nights

The Vagabunda: Journeys Without Borders is an ongoing memoir that invites readers into the adventurous life of a traveller, archaeologist, and doctor of medicine candidate. In this vibrant series, Elyssa Vagabunda shares her explorations across continents, offering a deeply personal window into the cultures, histories, and landscapes she has encountered.

This first instalment introduces Elyssa's journey, beginning with preparations in the Middle East and quickly transitioning to her travels across Asia. Readers will follow her path through Iran, Turkey, Georgia (ancient Colchis of the Golden Fleece and the Argonauts), Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and ultimately back to China—a country she once called home. Through humorous and adventurous anecdotes, the memoir highlights the excitement of crossing steppes, exploring ancient sites, working on archaeological digs, meeting diverse characters, and hiking breathtaking terrain.