Our Mission: To bridge the gap between “dreaming” and “doing.”
I didn’t start my journey with a trust fund or a camera crew. I started in Brooklyn in the ’70s, and by 17, I was a United States Marine with a duffel bag and a burning need to see what was beyond the city limits.
After 20 years living in Japan immersed in technology, followed by another decade in the high-pressure world of Cybersecurity, I hit a crossroad. I realized we’ve been sold a lie: that we should “live to work.”
I disagree. We work so we can afford to live and provide a better future for ourselves and our loved ones.
I stepped away from the corporate grind to rediscover the world, not as a “travel influencer” looking for a paycheck, but as a person who knows the value of a hard-earned dollar. Open Toriba is for the person who doesn’t have everything but should have the opportunity to experience everything. This isn’t about luxury suites; it’s about the raw, honest transition from your daily routine to the unforgettable experiences this one life offers.
Why I’m Here (And Why You Are, Too)
In Japan, a Torii gate marks the entrance to a sacred space. At OpenToriba.com, we are that gate. I want to help you bridge the gap between “dreaming” and “doing” without the influencer fluff.
What You’ll Find:
- Curated Guides: Fact-filled insights into culture, history, and hidden gems.
- Relatable Stories: No filtered perfection. Just sensory details and honest experiences from someone who’s been in the trenches.
- Practical Wisdom: Real tips on navigating new horizons with confidence, whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with a family of six.
- The “No-Bull” View: Reviews based on local reality and simple worldviews. If it’s worth your time, I’ll tell you. If it’s a gimmick, I’ll tell you that, too.
I’ve spent my life guarding data and securing financial institutions. Now, I want to help you guard your time and spend it on things that actually matter. You get one shot at this life—don’t let a corporate ladder or a social media feed choose how you live it.
Like the traditional Japanese Torii gate, we mark the entrance to your next adventure with this site. We believe that when you open a new door, you open a new world.
Step through the gate. Let’s see what’s on the other side.
