About the Book
Step into the last years of the 20th century, when a young Jamaican woman from Kingston set off to gallivant across the globe—with no set itinerary and plenty of curiosity. From Japan to Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and beyond, she plunged into lands and cultures that felt as strange and distant as another planet. Armed with her journal, camera, and a taste for adventure (and delicious food), she wandered solo for nearly a year, living on the edge of the unexpected. Through poems, postcards, random musings, sketches and photographs, she chronicled her journey of self-discovery, cultural surprises, and changing perspectives.
As she sought out cozy stays, bold flavors, and new horizons, she came to understand that embracing our humanity means honoring the roots that shape us while embracing the freedom to grow beyond them—a balance that drives both personal and collective evolution. For anyone craving stories of unplanned adventure, travel inspiration, or the relatable ups and downs of solo exploration, Gallivant offers a humorous, heartfelt look at finding oneself across borders and time zones.
About the Author
SIIM is a Jamaican architect, creative director, and fashion designer based in Kingston, Jamaica. She consults at the intersection of architecture, interior design, event architecture, and brand identity, with a specific focus on creating brand relevant experiential designs. With over twenty years of experience managing small and medium-scale construction projects in a design/build capacity, SIIM also has a special interest in the fleeting and temporal nature of film projects, and has worked as Art Director on several international feature films. Additionally, she is an avid gardener, an adventurous cook and a dog-mom with an enduring wanderlust.
Reviews
"Such a treat! Talk about living vicariously! Gallivant shares the adventures you always wished to experience, but for one reason or another was unable to… especially if you are older. I’m a non-reader and I could not put the book down! SiiM’s stories of her travels are captivating and delightful. I became enthralled by her experiences of living on the other side of the world. Her conversational writing style takes you with her to every destination. Plus she teaches you to make some amazing dishes as well! Could not ask for more. Belly full!"
Tracey-Anne Thompson
Administrative Assistant, Jamaica
"Gallivant is a captivating read. The author does a fantastic job of painting vivid pictures of the places she’s visited and illustrating the enthralling experiences of her adventures, drawing you in from the very start. The writing style is light, fun, and amusing, making it an easy, enjoyable read. I also love how the recipes are seamlessly woven into the story - it adds depth and makes the experience feel complete."
Summer Clarke
Project Manager, Jamaica
"The author's voice took me on a journey of proud laughter & joy, through the cultural lens of our mutual homeland. SiiM took one for the team... carrying me to places where my passport hasn't had a chance to reach yet. Every traveler with an international mindset should own a copy, not only Jamaicans!"
Marie Joan McMorris
Business Strategist, USA
"Unputdownable! I was enthralled. SiiM made her journey come to life for me, and yet, kept me close to home. As though we were travelling hand in hand. A must read! Such a pleasure of the heart and senses. A treasure."
Brigitt HooSang
Human Resources Consultant, Jamaica
"Having been a close friend of SiiM since our precocious pre-teen years, reading this book felt like flipping through a cherished scrapbook of postcards, each page stamped with her unmistakable wit and sense of adventure. Her stories, spanning quiet, sunlit mornings in Jamaica to the bustling streets of Paris and Cambodia, transported me back to the days when her postcards would arrive, brimming with stories of misadventures, culinary discoveries, and reflections as sharp as they were endearing.
This book is more than a collection of travel stories and recipes; it’s a celebration of the way SiiM experiences the world—with unfiltered curiosity, a generous dose of irreverence, and an unmistakable passion for life. Her voice leaps off the page, pulling you into hidden corners, vibrant markets, and lively city centers, inviting you to laugh, ponder, and marvel alongside her.
For anyone who loves to travel, cook, or simply revel in a life well-lived, this book is a treasure. For me, it’s a love letter from a friend who never fails to remind me of the joy of wandering and the magic of truly savoring the world. Take a bow, Siim—you’ve outdone yourself once more!"
Ronald Thompson
Consultant, Jamaica
