A globetrotting mom of five chronicles her family’s life-changing trip to over 20 countries in a year and shares transforming takeaways to inspire readers’ own adventures.
“When I step into a culture with people who look and think differently than I do, when I stand on a beach with sand unlike any I’ve felt before, when I hear songs in languages I do not speak, when I taste food with flavors I’ve never savored—I’m gaining glimpses into the awe-inspiring creativity of God.”—Ashley Campbell
In June 2022, Ashley Campbell and her family embarked on an ambitious, yearlong journey, all on a tight budget. What they experienced was a world filled with wonderful people, interesting places, unique foods, and most important, abundant examples of God’s exquisite creation.
As you travel along with the Campbell family to Morocco, Italy, Egypt, Japan, Ecuador, and many more countries, you’ll enjoy stunning photographs of exotic locales; learn how to overcome the fear and unease of exploring the unknown; get a taste of different cultures, cuisines, and customs; and discover how you can enjoy your own worldwide adventures for a fraction of the cost.
Let Ashley show you how accessible and welcoming the world can be and open your family's eyes to the beauty and wonder you can only find by “being there.”
About the Author :
Ashley Campbell is a photographer, writer, and lifelong adventure seeker. She is the founder of SnapShop Online, a photography school that has taught the basics of photography to thousands of children and adults. She has explored 31 countries, most with her favorite travel partners: her husband, Chris, and their five kids. Ashley actively chases opportunities to explore the unknown and learn from the world's diversity, encouraging others to see beauty in the seemingly mundane. She resides with her family in Oklahoma, three miles from her childhood home.
Review :
“Through fifteen years of creating global experiences with Noonday Collection, I’ve witnessed how curiosity shatters preconceptions and births lasting connections. Ashley Campbell’s intimate portrait of global community reminds us that the world isn’t something to fear but rather a tapestry of beauty waiting to be discovered, inspiring readers to build bridges of understanding across the globe and in their neighborhoods.”
—Jessica Honegger, founder of Noonday Collection
“With a spirit of simplicity and an eye for detail, I’ve Never Been Here Before is the travel book I’ve been waiting for. Weaving the beauty and complexity of global travel, Ashley Campbell translates her family’s year-long adventure into an accessible field guide for curiosity. In a world made of neighbors, this is an invitation to pursue difference, seek discomfort, and live with our hearts wide open.”
—Shannan Martin, author of The Ministry of Ordinary Places
“Ashley has always valued experiences and people over things, and in I’ve Never Been Here Before, she leads her readers to do the same. This book is a beautiful guide to savoring cultures from around the world through stories, cultural insights, and budget travel tips, leaving you inspired, encouraged, and more than ready for your next adventure.”
—Ruth Chou Simons, Wall Street Journal bestselling author, artist, and founder of gracelaced.com
“Ashley had me captivated from the beginning with her vision and determination to travel the world for a year with her family. The book draws you in with stunning photography and vivid storytelling, making you feel as if you’re traveling right by their side. It’s certainly not a one-time read—I often revisit it to explore a new country, glance at travel tips, or simply draw inspiration. Moreover, you don’t need to start at the beginning as this is the kind of book you can pick up at any point and instantly transport yourself.”
—Tracy Rampersaud, lifelong learner and mom on a mission to see the world
“Ashley weaves a heartwarming narrative that blends the excitement of international travel with the intimacy of family bonding. Through her rich storytelling, she highlights how travel enables and fosters deeper connections among family members while broadening one’s understanding of the complexities of humanity. I enjoy how she shares anecdotes that capture many small moments—whether it’s the joy of trying a new dish or navigating language barriers. The cultural experiences and stunning photography in the book are not just about sightseeing, but about true immersion and learning from our big, beautiful world.”
—Courtney Fields Connelly, M.Ed., international student program director at Jenks High School
