Tom Vater is an Asia-based writer who has worked for The Wall Street Journal, The Times, The Guardian, The Economist, CNN, Nikkei Asia and many others. He is The Daily Telegraph‘s Thailand destination expert and the author of twenty books, including five crime novels and the non-fiction bestseller Sacred Skin.
On assignments, Tom has joined sea gypsies, nomads, pilgrims, serial killers, rebels and soldiers, politicians, dissidents, whistle blowers and secret agents, artists, rock stars, pirates, hippies, gangsters, hit men, cops and prophets. Some have become close friends.
What does a journey mean to you?
Money. I am fortunate to get paid to travel (and write about it).
Which country or location most inspires you?
India – sublime, infuriating, enriching, depressing, complicated.
Where would you go back to, and why?
Kolkata, my favorite city – friendly, beautiful, great food & architecture, interesting politics, a little rough around the edges, and free from tourism.
Top insider tip for Bangkok?
The speakeasy inside the Patpong Museum.
What journey would you most like to go on?
I plan to trek up Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, with my 15 year old nephew next year.
