This final volume of Blasco Ibáñez's travelogue picks up as he sails through the newly opened Panama Canal, a modern marvel that stuns him. From there, he heads to a booming, roaring San Francisco, gets a taste of the fading royal culture in Hawaii, and then plunges into the complex, traditional world of Japan. The book isn't a straight guidebook. It's the diary of a man who is famous, a little worn out, and deeply thoughtful. He describes bustling cities and serene temples, but he's always filtering everything through his own experiences as a Spanish writer and former politician.

The Story

There's not a traditional plot with a villain. The "story" is the journey itself and the evolution of the author's perspective. We travel with him physically from Central America to Asia, and we travel with him mentally as he compares these societies to Europe. He's fascinated by American ambition in California, nostalgic for the old ways in Honolulu, and both impressed and bewildered by the strict codes of Japanese life. Through it all, he writes letters and reflects on the news from Spain, feeling both disconnected and forever tied to it. The narrative tension comes from his internal struggle: can you ever truly leave your old life behind, or do you just carry it with you everywhere?

Why You Should Read It

I loved this because it feels so honest. This isn't a polished, perfect adventure. Blasco Ibáñez gets tired, he gets critical, and he sometimes just wants to be left alone. His observations are sharp and often funny. He doesn't just describe a place; he gives you his immediate, gut reaction to it. You feel like you're right there with him, trying to make sense of a rapidly changing world in the 1920s. The themes of cultural collision and searching for peace are still incredibly relevant today.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who love travel writing with a big dose of personality. If you enjoyed the reflective style of books like Bill Bryson's or Paul Theroux's journeys, you'll find a kindred spirit in Blasco Ibáñez. It's also a great pick for anyone interested in early 20th-century history, seen through the eyes of a clever and slightly cynical guide. Don't expect constant action; expect a smart, meandering, and deeply human conversation with a fascinating companion.