Who Am I?

My name is Mary Ellen Telesha, and I’m a nomad and traveler, currently in a simply converted Chevy Uplander mini-van. I’ve traveled from coast to coast in the U.S. and there’s still so much more to see!

I’m the published author of the popular book Wild Women on The Road, the most recently published 600 Days as a Nomad, and my attempt at nomad humor, Top Ten Lists For Nomads: The (Mostly) Lighter Side of Nomadic Life. I’m also a Martha Beck Life Coach, and a Reiki Master. Someone recently called me a “self-proclaimed” expert … hey, I’m on board with that!

Welcome to my adventures and musings on nomadic life and travel!

I’ve written several books about nomadic life over the years, you can find them on Amazon by clicking these links:

Wild Women On The Road: A Women’s Guide To Nomadic Freedom In The Modern Age

600 Days As A Nomad: How The Mystical Power Of Nature Heald My Body, Mind, and Soul

Top Ten Lists For Nomads: The (Mostly) Lighter Side of Nomadic Life

Companion Journal To Wild Women On The Road

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can you afford to travel so often?

One of the reasons people become nomads is because in today’s economy they can’t afford to own or rent and still be able to travel. Once I gave up my apartment, my rent payment became my gas money to travel! My mini-van is gas efficient and I camp as much as possible on free public land.

2. Why do people live as nomads in the modern world?

People choose nomad life and travel for a multitude of reasons. To live closer to nature, to see more of the world, to escape a bad situation, financial hardship, to save money, or health reasons such as mold illness. Some want a more meaningful life and have a deep craving for meaningful experiences. For most of us it comes down to one thing … a feeling of FREEDOM!

3. Have you ever been in danger?

Safety is relative! Of course, being out on the road exposes you to all kinds of people, but danger can happen anywhere. The best defense is situational awareness, but once you’ve been on the road awhile you do end up having the occasional troublesome experiences. You can read about my scariest nomad experience here!

4. Why are you in a mini-van and not a bigger RV?

When I first started looking for a nomad vehicle I was looking for a small RV. There was nothing to be found in my price range, so I started looking for a van. Now I love the simplicity, low gas mileage, and low maintenance of a mini-van! It forces me to live minimally, giving me more time and money to enjoy nomadic life!