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Ajala The Traveller: The Man And His Journeys

Every avid Nigerian traveller or globetrotter has one time or the other been referred to as Ajala by their friends, families or acquaintances. Most even use the designation in their pseudo names; names like Ajalabug, Wondering Ajala, Ajalaman, The travelling Ajala. This vocabulary that has become so familiar and part of the Nigerian travel lingua still has little or less known about the origin of its name.

So, who is Ajala? 

On April 27, 1957, in London, a 26 years old student of psychology, Mashood Olabisi Ajala embarked on a trip across 40 countries in Europe, Asia and Africa on his Vespa scooter wearing his full conspicuous agbada regalia with a cap to match. As a pre-medical student, Olabisi has previously undertaken a similar jaunt four years ago in the USA pedalling from Chicago to Los Angeles on a bicycle covering 3,800 miles in 35 days over ten cities. His journey which he nicknamed “This Safari” will cover 30,000 miles across 40 countries in nine months and return to London afterwards.

How did his journey go?

In his book “An African Abroad”, Olabisi narrated his encounter with the then president of Egypt, Gamal Abdel Nasser:

“Every day at 6 am for the next two weeks, I was waiting directly in front of his presidential palace hoping he would come out. On the 13th day of my hitherto unpromising efforts, around 5 pm President Naseer emerged from the interior of his residence heading for his car.”

In his agbada, the heavily bearded Olabisi screamed as loud as he could and caught the attention of the president. He was heartily welcomed in by the president.

Olabisi was very relentless and radical in his approach to travelling and this brought him fame and also trouble. In an interview, he was quoted saying -The world should send Doctors to Africa, missionaries to Chicago, Ajala said. The gangsters here need converting much more than we do.

He also met with other great world leaders among them is the then Shah of Iran, the Soviet President -Nikita Sergeyevich, President of Egypt, Ronald Regan of America and the likes. His trouble particularly impressed Mrs Golda Meir the then prime minister of Israel, on meeting with Ajala she said as quoted in Ajala’s memoir ‘it’s not often we have this kind of trouble. Your bravery impressed us. We thought we should crown it.’

Crossing Lebanon on his way to Israel, the Lebanese security force arrested him believing he was on an espionage mission for the Israeli. He knew crossing of any border between Israeli-Arab frontier would be a death wish but was daring to continue his journey as this was the heat of the Israeli-Arab war.

His journey took him not just to the cities but to the rural places where no black man has ever set their foot, upon his arrival at a farm in Minsk in the then Soviet Union which is now in Belarus, his arrival caused some locals to flee in panic at the “frightening sight” of the black man invading their village.

He ended up spending more time than the initially proposed nine months, and during his sojourn, he got arrested on several occasions. He visited eighty-seven countries in his six-year globetrotting trip (ranging from North America to Eastern and Western Europe, through Africa and Asia and as far east as Korea, Indonesia and Australia). He documented all this in his book- The African Abroad”.

After his first journey previously in America, he expeditiously got fame for himself and accolades. All these got him a role in the film “White Witch Doctor” produced by 20th-Century Fox movies where he played the role of an African boy.

Why did he leave the USA to continue schooling in London England?

The intrepid traveller had a forgery case with the American immigration and was deported, he went on to protest against this by climbing an 80ft mast and refusing to come down for nearly 13 hours, his plea was that he was duped and didn’t commit the crime. The US government decided to deport him to London instead of Nigeria after he said he would face a tribal execution if he got deported home.

With his tremendous charisma and eccentric nature, he was the golden boy loved by the ladies, many of whom he met on his journeys. In his trip around the world, he married 5 women; an Australian lady, an American, a British model, a Nigerian woman in London and also another Nigerian in Nigeria. Upon his return to Nigeria, he became a publicist and his awesome showmanship got many musicians such as Ebenezer Obey, Ayinde Barrister and Sunny Ade singing about him.

In his last days, Ajala extravagance life became arduous to maintain and his wealth he had amassed over the years went gradually down to penury. In Lagos, he lived in a two-storey building in Bariga where he managed to live with stroke until he died in February 1999 at the age of seventy in a general hospital in Lagos.

It’s 63 years since he made his journey across the world, Ajala children are still in different parts of the world where he once journeyed. Ajala explored the unexplored and charted the hitherto uncharted. He made history. And also lived through life. He achieved a feat that no Nigerian or African might be able to achieve in our present day. His youthful decades was nothing compared to what the average person will do even in two lifetimes. His legacy lives on.

In this article

• Adebayo Ebenezer Mayowa
• Ajala The Traveller
• Ajala Travel
• The travelling Ajala
• Wandering Ajala

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The Story Of AJALA TRAVEL, Africa’s Most Legendary Traveler

• August 3, 2016

Europe had Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, James Cook, and Marco Polo, Asia had its Ibn Battuta and Zheng He and Africa had OLABISI AJALA. He was one of the foremost Nigerian icons of cultural history, the quintessential explorer.

A very Nigerian man at heart and a proud African in soul, Ajala shattered all records of travel, voyaging into lands that no black person had ever seen not to talk of setting their feet there. Ajala had the world in his pockets and the world bowed at his guts. From the physical boundaries of nations to the piercing demarcations of racism, Ajala tore through them all.

Birth And Early Days

Born Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala in Ghana to an African Muslim father with four wives, Ajala grew up in a large family. He was one out of 25 children. In his own words in his legendary book, An African Abroad, he said: ‘I was born in Ghana, of Nigerian parents, and brought up in Nigeria, where I had my schooling at the Baptist Academy, Lagos, and Ibadan Boys’ High School. At the age of eighteen I went to America to further my studies. My father, a traditionalist who belongs to the old school…’

Ajala’s initial goal was to study medicine and as a matter of fact, he was the first black student to be pledged by the Delta Upsilon Pi ‘fratority’, a co-educational Greek-letter organization at De Paul University in Chicago in January 1952 where he was a pre-medical student. He was so active that he was made the feature editor of the campus newspaper, the De Paulian. Ajala said at that time that once he became a medical doctor he was going to return to Africa to in his words ‘wage war on voodoo and other superstitions.’ He said he was proud of his 24 siblings, one of whom was a student in England. He  never fulfilled his dream of becoming a medical doctor as he stumbled on something far more enchanting.

Love And Marriage

Charismatic and charming, Ajala was a man of so many women.

In early 1953, a baby boy weighing six pounds and eight ounces was born to a former Chicago nurse named Myrtle Bassett who was residing in Los Angeles. This lady said Ajala was the father of the baby and had previously filed a paternity suit against him when he flatly refused he was the father. But the mother of the child countered saying Ajala did not only name the baby (Oladipupo), he also signed the birth certificate. Ajala stuck to his guns and insisted he was not the father. He told Jet that time that: ‘1. The mother had refused to have blood tests for the baby so he could prove he was not its father. 2. He had contributed $300 to cover the medical and hospital expenses to cancel a restraining order against his $300-a-week salary at 20th Century-Fox Studio, where he completed work in the movie White Witch Doctor and 3. He had given her $150 after the child’s birth and promised $200-a-month for support, pending settlement of the case.’ Ajala was scheduled to begin work in Columbia Studio’s movie Killer Ape on the 2nd of February 1953 when all this allegations and court issues about paternity came. In fact, Ajala planned to launch a countersuit to the paternity case saying:

It is the only way I can prove that I am innocent of the charges. She refuses to submit the baby to a blood test. I think it is a trick.

Eventually, when the lady in question said she was ready for the blood tests, Mr. Ajala was nowhere to be found and the court had to rule against him. In March 1953, a Los Angeles domestic court ordered Ajala to pay Myrtle Bassett the sum of $10 per week for support of her baby boy, Oladipupo.

In August 1955 in London, United Kingdom, Ajala revealed to journalists that he and his American wife, Hermine Aileen were divorced and that he was planning to marry his 19-year-old white London radio-TV actress Joan Simmons in December of the same year. Hermine had divorced him over adultery and when Ajala was questioned about the philandering charges pressed by his wife, he said curtly: ‘This, I am not contesting.’

§  When Ajala passed through Australia in his trip, he met and fell in love with a local girl, whom he married. This union sparked the interest of many because as at that time, only about 100 blacks (Aborigines) had become Australian citizens and most of them did so via marriage.

In 1955, he married a British actress Joan Simmons aged 19.

Recall that Ajala had many children from his various romantic liaisons with women. One of the most striking stories of his children includes that of the child mentioned earlier on, the one he had with Myrtle Bassett. Ajala did not set his eyes on the child for 23 years and when he finally met him in December 1976, he was ecstatic with joy. This was how it happened. After the court ruled in Bassett’s favor, Ajala soon disappeared from the radar and when he turned 46, he was overwhelmed with so much guilt that he said of the meeting with Oladipupo (then called Andre). Ajala explained: ‘I was very happy to find Andre. He is my oldest son and he is so full of life. Im overjoyed that I found him.’

Ajala was just 24 and a student at Roosevelt University in Chicago when he met a student nurse there and later moved to Los Angeles with her and shortly gave welcomed the baby boy. But a couple of months after Andre was born, Ajala had ajala-ed himself back to Nigeria, leaving his family behind. But the shame was too much for him as a father and decided to return to the United States to find his son whom he found in New York already working as a musician and a guitarist. An excited Ajala said he would love his son to visit Nigeria the following year (1977) and perform at the World Black Arts Festival (1977).

Bicycling Across The United States

Fame came to Moshood Ajala in 1952 when he decided to embark on a lecture tour across the United States from Chicago to Los Angeles, all on a bicycle. Aged 22, Ajala set out on the 12th of June 1952 from Chicago on a bicycle tour covering an incredible 2,280 miles. He arrived the Los Angeles City Hall on 10thof July, two days ahead of his 30-day schedule. Upon arrival, Ajala was received by the city mayor Fletcher Bowron. While narrating his experience of the cross-country tour, Mr. Ajala said everything was generally fine and the only nasty incident was a time in Topeka, Kansas where he was jailed for 44 hours after the white YWMA refused him a room and called the police when he protested (kindly note that that was time when the United States of America was bitterly divided with segregation politics gaining ground).  A man not to be cheated, Ajala filed a suit against the Topeka YMCA and its secretary via the Nigerian ambassador in Washington. He was determined no one was going to mess with a Nigerian citizen and get away with it, not even a band of unruly Americans in Kansas.

But what was the purpose of his travel? Ajala was a psychology junior at the Roosevelt College in Chicago and his goal for the tour was to educate the American public on the progress made by his native West African country of Nigeria. The tour included stops to deliver lectures at 11 major cities. Ajala also did his tour wearing native Nigerian costumes described as ‘elaborately flowered robes with a felt-like head-dresses to match’, to which Ajala said:…will show and prove to Americans that we do not go about nakedly in loin clothes.’

Ajala The Actor

Following his daring bicycle trip across continental United States, Ajala became the darling of many. Newspaper journalists besieged him and he was made a celebrity overnight. Deals, endorsements and contracts came flying at him. One of such was the movie contract he signed with Eagle-Lion Studios in Hollywood in August 1955, the deal involved making a series of drama and spy films with European and African backgrounds.

After his deportation from the United States, Ajala proceeded to Canada and spent nine months perfecting his acting skills. It was while he was there that he starred in the stage play Lost In The Stars.

Brushes With American Law And The Deportation

A free-spirited individual known for crashing into movies amongst other interesting ways of expressing his liberty, it was not long before Ajala surfaced on the American security radar. In July 1953, things had taken turn for the worse for Ajala. But what happened?

In March 1953, the police of Beverly Hills, California arrested and jailed Ajala on three felony charges. He was accused on one count of forgery, two grand theft and three, worthless cheque charges. To add to his trouble, he had also been sued by a former Chicago nurse for refusing to accept paternity of his child. Back to the forgery case, specific charges against Ajala indicated that he made attempts to work a ‘bunko’ game by opening a savings account at a branch of Bank of America under the fake name of ‘Edward Hines’ then made deposits at other branches with worthless cheques. Officials said Ajala made five of such phony deposits of about $450.

He was eventually found guilty of forgery and deported from the United States of America, he was aged 24, an exchange student from Africa and an actor. Ajala was not really deported solely because of the grand theft charges (to which he pleaded not guilty before Judge Orlando H. Rhodes), he became a subject of deportation also because he failed to maintain his studies at the Santa Monica Junior College, thus invalidating his visa. For the forgery and grand theft charges, Ajala pleaded not guilty saying with all firmness and seriousness that he was duped by Arnold Weiner, a white male ex-bank accountant. Weiner said while it was true that he showed Ajala how to write cheques, he did not dupe him in anyway.

However, it must be stated that Ajala’s deportation was not without drama. After he was convicted of passing bad cheques in Los Angeles, Ajala was ordered by the American authorities to be deported to England from Ellis Island, New York but Ajala resisted and you know what he did? While awaiting deportation at the Terminal Island in Los Angeles after he was given a one-year suspended jail term, Ajala climbed an 80-foot radio tower and threatened to kill himself . From atop the tower, Ajala screamed that he ‘would rather leap to my death’ than be deported. Mr. Ajala was on the tower for almost 24 hours while the immigration authorities pleaded with him. Finally, Ajala fell to the ground from a height of 15 feet. He was examined by doctor at the island’s hospital and they said all he suffered was just a sprained back. Immigration authorities said Ajala made the death threat because he feared what they called ‘tribal execution’ if he was packaged back to Nigeria.

Immigration officials said Ajala dreaded tribal execution so much so that when the judge sentenced him to a one-year suspended sentence, Ajala dropped to his knees two times and touched the floor with his forehead saying he was ‘calling on Allah’ to bless the judge for the ‘mercy’ shown as the sentence might just save him from execution back home in West Africa.

When Ajala noted that his protest at the order of the immigration authorities did not work, he embarked on a 30-day fast which  the immigration officials translated it to mean a hunger strike to stop his deportation, while Ajala insisted he was simply observing his Ramadan fasting as dictated by his Islamic faith. Whatever the case, Mr. Ajala was deported and gallantly flown to London. Immigration officer Justin Bennett confirmed his deportation without any fear of any execution and also stated that Ajala’s request to be sent to Canada was rejected because Canada has refused to approve his application.

Upon arriving in the United Kingdom, Ajala said he was going to work on a new movie at the Ealing Studios in London and talked of his plans to return to the United States.

By September 1954, Ajala was back in the United States with his American-born wife, Hermine Aileen. He explained to reporters that the deportation order only banned him from stepping on American soil and his plan was to resume his acting career in California.

The Global Travel

He visited nations such as India, Russia (then the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, USSR), Jordan, Iran (not an Islamic Republic then but a monarchy and America’s greatest ally in the region headed by a monarch), Jordan, Israel and Australia using nothing but a motor-scooter (popularly called Vespa) and met with some of the most powerful people in the world.

These included personalities like Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa who was Nigeria’s first prime minister, Marshal Ayub Khan of Pakistan, Golda Meir of Israel (she was the first female prime minister of the nation), Makarios III of Cyprus, Jawarhalal Nehru of India, Nikita Khrushchev of the USSR, the Shah of Iran (Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi), Gamal Nasser of Egypt, General Ignatius Acheampong of Ghana, Odinga Oginga, former vice president of Kenya and others. Ajala released a book titled An African Abroad documenting all his experiences on the trip, the book was supposed to be the first volume of a trilogy. In all, he visited over 85 countries with his scooter over a period of six years.

Slide Into Penury

Ajala had seen it all, from the greatest displays of wealth to the stupefying corridors of power. But somehow, by the time death came knocking, he was one of the poorest Nigerians alive.

On February 2, 1999, the man fondly known as “Ajala travel” died. He died in penury. The world famous Ajala died unsung and unrecognized.

His grave in central Lags is no different from any other. For more than a year, Ajala suffered. He had a stroke which paralyzed his left limb. But his army of children were not there to give him succor. He only had two of them around, Olaolu Ajala, a 20-year-old student of Baptist Academy, Lagos and Bolanle Ajala, his 17-year-old daughter who had just finished her senior secondary education at the Baptist High School, Bariga, Lagos. With him also in his last hour was another teenager, 14-year-old Wale Anifowoshe. Wale was especially fond of him. He kept all Ajala’s money, the little there was.

Some of his children who could not be with him include Dante, Femi, Lisa and Sydney all of whom are based in Australia. They are the children of his Australian wife, Joan. Some of his other children are also spread around the globe. There are Taiwo and Kehinde in the United States as well as Bisola in England. But all were not around to bid their father a final goodbye except Olaolu and Bolanle.

Indeed it is a sad end for a man whose scooter is now a national monument. Noone oof his numerous wives was around to bid him goodbye to the world beyond.

His first wife, Alhaja Sade, could not find time during the year-long sickness of her husband until he finally died. She lives in Ikotun, a suburb of Lagos. “We told her that he was sick and she told us she would come, but we never saw her, “ Olaolu said. He was not sure whether she is aware that her husband is dead. Joan only got in touch with him through correspondence. There are also Mrs. Toyin Ajala in England and Mrs. Sherifat Ajala, mother of his last daughter, Bolanle. But they were not around to tend to the man when he was battling with his sickness. A neighbor in Bariga who spoke on condition of anonymity said “he could have survived if he had had adequate care.” Adequate care was indeed far from the late globe-trotter. In no other place was this manifested than his residence, a rented apartment in a two-storey building on Adeniran Street, Bariga . Climbing two flights of stairs to the top floor, one is immediately confronted with the way life had treated Ajala. A passage leads into a 16-by-12 feet sitting room.

The sitting room, devoid of carpet, has a table with about five locally made iron chairs in a corner which serves as the dining table. An old black and white television set sits uncomfortably in an ill-constructed shelf. The cushion on the sofa hurts the buttock as it has become flat. The curtains on the windows of the two bedroom flat shows signs of old age. It is indeed a story of penury.

Legacy And Honours

Ebenezer Obey immortalized him in his song below through which many Nigerians first heard of him.

Olabisi Ajala was more than an inspiring compatriot; he was the very personification of adventure. A truly thrilling a pan-African voyager who made the best of his time the way he deemed best, he remains a global citizen and a legend in his own right. At a time when millions of Nigerian youths are scared and utterly petrified of anything that even remotely reeks of exploration or adventure, the story of Ajala Travel should be more than an inspiration to conquer the world. He conquered the world the way he could, let us do the same and leave our marks in the warps of time.

• Olabisi Ajala, An African Abroad, (Jarrolds, London, 1963).
• Deported Nigerian Actor Returns To US With Wife, page 58, Jet, 16th September 1954.
• African Actor To Wed White British Actress, page 19, Jet, 25th August, 1955.
• Moshood Olabisi Ajala, People Profile, Jet, 7th August, 1952.
• African Cyclist Near End of ‘Cross Country’ Tour, Jet, 17th July 1952.
• James Olney, Tell Me Africa: An Approach to African Literature, page 47.
• Jet, 25th December, 1952, page 54.
• Pause For Globe-Girdler, Jet, 18th September, 1958.
• Oladipo GB Ogunseitan, Be Afra, Volume 1, page 528-530.
• Tunji, Bolaji. ‘Sad End of Olabisi Ajala.’, The Guardian, 20 February 1999, pages 8-9.

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The story of Nigeria's famous globetrotter

Ajala the Traveller is one of the most famous Nigerians ever because of his globe trotting exploits.

On this Thursday, January 19, 2017,

In 1972, Nigerian music legend Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey sang about the exploits of Ajala the Traveller on his 1972 hit album ''.

Back then, it was a big deal if Ebenezer Obey or King Sunny Ade mentioned you on a record. You were the real deal. So who is Ajala the Traveller that got Obey to give him a shout out?

Ajala the Traveller's real names are Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala. He was born in Ghana in a polygamous household. His father had four wives and 25 children.

"I was born in Ghana, of Nigerian parents, and brought up in Nigeria, where I had my schooling at the Baptist Academy, Lagos, and Ibadan Boys’ High School. At the age of eighteen, I went to America to further my studies. My father, a traditionalist who belongs to the old school…" he wrote in his book ''

He later went to De Paul University in Chicago in America to study medicine. While in America, he became the first black student to be pledged by the Delta Upsilon Pi ‘fraternity.

His travelling adventures started in 1952 when he decided to embark on a cross-country tour of America with just his bicycle and agbada. He would cover 2,280 miles in 28 days starting from Chicago and ending in Los Angeles.

Ajala would embark on other globe trotting adventures thereby dumping his ambitions of becoming a doctor.

Thanks to his cross country journey in America, Ajala became famous in America and back home. His fame led him to be an actor and he starred in a few movies.

His time in America was blighted with his trouble with the law and he was eventually deported from the country.

In his lifetime Ajala, the Traveller visited India, USSR, Jordan, Iran Jordan, Israel and Australia. Remarkably he did this on a Vespa. He also met and dined with a lot of world dignitaries.

Ajala the Traveller was said to be in love with the ladies too. He had several wives and children, some of the countries he visited.

Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala died on February 2, 1999, in abject poverty despite his fame.

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Ajala The Traveler: New Captivating Documentary Unveils the Incredible Journeys of Africa’s First World Traveler

• By Nollywire
• 12 months ago

Renowned filmmaker and lawyer, Ayo Shonaiya, is set to take audiences on an awe-inspiring journey with his upcoming documentary series titled “Ajala The Traveler.” This groundbreaking production unveils the remarkable adventures of Olabisi Ajala, Africa’s first world traveler, who traversed 87 countries between 1957 and 1962, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

“Ajala The Traveler,” directed by Ayo Shonaiya and co-produced by Shonaiya and Olabisi Ajala Jr, delves into the extraordinary life of Olabisi Ajala. The Yoruba man from Nigeria defied the norms of his time by embarking on an audacious global expedition aboard a humble scooter. The documentary explores his encounters across North America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, where he unintentionally became an ambassador, meeting heads of state, presidents, and prime ministers along the way. His enthralling journey and subsequent book, “An African Abroad,” have made him a legend.

In addition to his travels, Olabisi Ajala was also a renowned Hollywood actor, starring alongside icons such as Robert Mitchum and former US President Ronald Reagan. As a show promoter, he paved the way for Nigerian artists to perform in Europe, leaving a lasting impact on the African music scene.

“Ajala The Traveler” not only tells the fascinating story of Olabisi Ajala but also follows the journey of his last son, Olabisi Ajala Jr, as he embarks on a quest to meet his global siblings for the first time. This heartwarming documentary captures Olabisi Ajala Jr’s dream of organising a momentous “family reunion” and showcases the emotional and enlightening experiences he encounters during his worldwide journey.

Narrated by Olabisi Ajala Jr, the documentary interweaves exclusive footage, interviews with those who knew Olabisi Ajala intimately, and rare, unpublished photographs and family films. “Ajala The Traveler” takes audiences on an inspirational and exhilarating voyage through time, uncovering the birth and legacy of the legendary name “Ajala.” This true African story of global proportions symbolizes the spirit of travel and exploration, inspiring generations to come.

Production for “Ajala The Traveler” is scheduled to commence in September 2023. The documentary is a collaborative effort by R70, Opulence Mind LLC, Kola Tubosun, and Abby Ogunsanya. With Ayo Shonaiya at the helm, whose previous work includes the critically acclaimed Netflix documentary “Afrobeats: The Backstory,” audiences eagerly await the release of “Ajala The Traveler” and the extraordinary tale it promises to unfold.

As the world prepares to be captivated by the life of Olabisi Ajala, this forthcoming documentary guarantees an immersive and unforgettable experience, shining a spotlight on a man whose name has become synonymous with travel in Nigeria and beyond.

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The story of ajala travels.

Published by Temiloluwa oyeniyi on 14th June, 2022

If you are someone who travels a lot and enjoys it, that a week doesn’t go without you having to travel, then you must be familiar with people calling you “Ajala Travel.” On one or more occasions, people must have given you a compliment or eulogized you with a sigh or a thumbs up with ‘ hmm… you can travel for Africa, M.r Ajala travels ” and then with a nod to indicate that you will never listen even if they make an attempt to talk you out of traveling.

You must be wondering why the name ‘Ajala’ best suits the context of your love for traveling- many people grew up knowing that, but do not know the significance of the character and the story behind the context. Even though traditional history ignores Olabisi Ajala, the phrase “Ajala the traveler,” a moniker for the free-spirited and adventurous in Southwest Nigeria, ensures that he will never be forgotten.

In this piece, Naijabiography narrates the story behind the name ‘Ajala Travels’, who Ajala was and why people use him in that context, and of course, why people call you Ajala travels.

Once upon a time, there was a boy called Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, popularly known in his hometown as Ọlábísí Àjàlá. Ajala was a Nigerian journalist, travel writer, actor, and later a Lagos socialite. He is known for his adventures in Israel , Egypt , Palestine , India , the United States , and other countries. His lone book, An African Abroad, was released in 1963 and chronicled his travel adventures. His name is now synonymous with ‘travel’ in Nigeria. In Nigeria, his name is still used as a slang term to ridicule people who can’t seem to remain still. They’re known as ‘Ajala the Traveller.’

History of Ajala

Olabisi Ajala was born to a Nigerian family in Ghana in 1929 or 1934 . With roughly thirty offspring and four marriages, it was a polygamous family. The twenty-fifth was Olabisi. His family relocated to Nigeria when he was a child. In Lagos, he attended Baptist Academy, and in Ibadan, he attended Ibadan Boys’ High School.

In 1952 , he traveled to the United States at the age of eighteen to study pre-medicine at the University of Chicago. He was the first black student in the Delta Upsilon Pi fraternity , a co-ed Greek-letter organization , at the time. Later, he transferred to Roosevelt University (formerly known as “Roosevelt College”) to pursue a degree in psychology.

Ajàlá dreamed of a cross-country bicycle ride from Chicago to Los Angeles . The journey according to him was 28 days , and he travelled 2,280 miles . He set out on his journey on June 12th, 1952, and arrived at Los Angeles City Hall on July 10th . He received numerous honors as a result of the journey, including publicity in the main publications of the day. Ajàlá was greeted by Los Angeles mayor Fletcher Bowron when he arrived two days ahead of schedule. History has it that he never returned to Chicago.

He became a minor celebrity in Los Angeles and did numerous interviews. He was later cast in the film White Witch Doctor , produced by 20th Century Fox and based on the 1950 novel by Louise A. Stinetorf. Ronald Reagan , whom he had met three years before, had offered him the recommendation.  He was also cast in the film “ Killer Ape ,” but he never started filming.

Many women surrounded him because of his stature. One of them was Myrtle Basset, a Chicago nurse who gave him his first child, ládipupo Andrei Ajala , who was born on January 21, 1953 . In Yoruba, the word ládipupo means “ wealth has multiplied. ” Ajàlá, on the other hand, had initially disputed the fatherhood of the child. When he refused to show up in court to take the blood test he had requested, the courts ordered him to pay ten dollars per week to the mother. Olaábisi then vanished, and ládipupo was not seen again until 1976 when he had become a pianist. Ládipupo passed away on January 19, 2020.

Why Ajala Travels?

He was sentenced to a year suspended jail term later after the court ruling, following a series of run-ins with American immigration for minor violations such as issuing fake checks. He was also ordered to be deported to Nigeria because he had abandoned his schoolwork—he had reportedly gone to Santa Monica Junior College but was not keeping up with his studies. He objected to the deportation order, claiming that he would be executed by his father in accordance with tribal custom. First, he scaled an 80-foot radio tower , threatening to commit suicide if the order was not overturned. He leapt down from around fifteen feet after nearly 13 hours and hurt his back. He was eventually deported, albeit to London rather than New York.

After some months, Ajala returned to the United States in December 1954 with a new wife, Hermine Aileen, a New York model . They made their home in Chicago. She divorced him in 1955 after accusing him of philandering and adultery, which he denied. He remarried in December 1955 , this time to Joan Simons, a 19-year-old London actress.

Ajàlá embarked on a “ round-the-world ” journey from London on April 27, 1957 . These would serve as the foundation for his biography, “An African Abroad,” published in 1963 with a preface by Tom Mboya. He intended to travel to 40 different countries but later toured about 87 countries on a motorcycle in the 1950s .

He wore his agbada – a Yoruba flowing gown – and a cap in every location he visited, a combination characterized as “elaborately patterned robes with a felt-like headdress to match.” Ajàlá travelled to India, the Soviet Union, Iran, Jordan, Israel, Palestine, Egypt, and eventually Australia in order to write the book. 

He toured them all on his Vespa scooter, which was adorned with notable autographs from the celebrities he had met. He met many more people throughout his tour around the world, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Golda Meir, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Gamal Abdel Nasser, the Shah of Iran, and Nikita Khrushchev. Poland, Germany, Prague, Czechoslovakia, Austria, Yugoslavia, Albania, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, and Turkey were among the countries he visited.

If Mungo Park toured the African coast to “discover” the Niger River and Ferdinand Magellan circumnavigated the globe to prove the planet was spherical, Ajala travelled the globe to show the world African culture and Nigerians’ can-do élan.

As a result, Ajala represents Africa in the same way that Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, James Cook, and Marco Polo represent Europe, and Ibn Battuta al-Tanji and Zheng . He represented Asia , and his motorcycle was his compass, which he used to cross borders and confront racial intolerance’s harshness.

However, he also had run-ins with the authorities, first in the Soviet Union, when he was accused of attempting to assassinate Nikita Khrushchev by being too close to him in public, and again on the Israel-Palestine border, where he was almost shot for speeding across without authorization. 

Later, the book was written as both a travelogue and a journalistic work. He shared his thoughts on how people lived in the countries he visited, as well as his thoughts on the political situation in Israel and Palestine and the world leaders he met.

Ajala Travel in Nigeria

Ajàlá afterward returned to Nigeria and became a well-known socialite. He went on to serve as an entertainment promoter and publicist for artists such as Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. They later had a squabble, which resulted in the end of their relationship.

Ebenezer Obey , for example, lauded him in song with the lines “You’ve visited every country on the planet. Ajàlá went on a round-the-world trip…” The phrase “Ajàlá travels” became associated with wanderlust and extended travel after it. This is why most Nigerians imbibed the phrase and instead of saying ‘you travel a lot they say “ájala travel.” 

Because Ajala was influential, he became every lady’s man and he had women all around him from one state to another. In Sydney where his book was published, he married Joan and had three children with her. In subsequent years, especially when he dwelled in Nigeria, he married Alhaja Sadé and was said to have had children with a few more women in Nigeria.

Although he sustained his legacy and he’s been remembered for his ventures and adventures with his scooter, Ajàlá had a stroke in the early days of 1999 while living in Lagos and did not obtain sufficient treatment. Thus, on February 2, 1999 , he died of a stroke, but his children are in different parts of the world.

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Ajala The Traveller – Life and Times

Ajala the traveller, who was ajala.

Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, renowned as Ọlábísí Àjàlá, was a multifaceted Nigerian personality who excelled as a journalist, travel writer, and actor, and eventually became a prominent figure in Lagos’ social scene. He was born on April 3, 1934, in Ghana and was raised in a polygamous household with four wives and approximately thirty children, Olabisi held the position of the twenty-fifth child.

Following their time in Ghana, Ajala’s family relocated to Nigeria. In Nigeria, he pursued his education at Baptist Academy in Lagos and Ibadan Boys’ High School in Ibadan.

At the age of 18, Ajala embarked on a journey to the United States to pursue pre-medicine studies at the University of Chicago. Notably, he achieved the distinction of being the first black student to join Delta Upsilon Pi, a co-educational Greek-letter organization

However, he veered away from his initial career aspirations, abandoning the path of medicine for a life filled with adventures on the road. Subsequently, he enrolled at Roosevelt University (then known as Roosevelt College) to pursue studies in Psychology.

What Was He Known For?

Renowned as a world traveller, Ajala gained fame through his remarkable escapades in various countries such as Israel, Egypt, Palestine, India, the United States, and numerous other destinations across the globe.

Ajala, much like renowned explorers such as Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, James Cook, and Marco Polo symbolizes Europe’s exploratory spirit, He served as a representative figure for Africa.

In Nigeria today, Ajala’s name has become synonymous with the concept of “travel.” It has evolved into a slang used to playfully tease individuals who have a  habit of frequently traveling or being unable to stay in one place. Such individuals are humorously referred to as “Ajala the traveler.”

While in Chicago, Àjàlá came up with the idea of a bicycle journey from Chicago to Los Angeles. This cross-country trip covered approximately 2,280 miles and took him 28 days to complete. He began the journey on June 12, 1952, and reached Los Angeles City Hall on July 10.

The remarkable feat garnered him widespread recognition, with major newspapers featuring his story. Àjàlá’s early arrival in Los Angeles, two days ahead of schedule, led to a reception by the city’s mayor, Fletcher Bowron.

Marriage and Family

Ajala’s charismatic persona attracted the attention of numerous women, one of which was Myrtle Basset, a nurse from Chicago. Myrtle Basset became the mother of his first child, Ọládipúpọ́ Andrei Ajala.

He later married Hermine Aileen, an American, and then Joan Simmons, a 19-year-old British actress. His fourth wife was a 28-year-old Australian lady named Joannre Prettan, with whom he had three children.

Additionally, he married Toyin Ajala and Mrs. Sherifat Ajala while in England. His children are scattered across Nigeria, Australia, and London. However, Ajala had a strained relationship with his wives and children, as none of his wives were present during his final moments, and only three of his children stood by his deathbed.

Legal Issues

He had various encounters with the American immigration authorities due to minor offenses, including issuing false checks, and he received a one-year suspended jail term. Also because he neglected his studies — he was ordered to be deported to Nigeria.

He protested the deportation order by climbing an 80-foot radio tower, threatening to kill himself unless the order was rescinded. After nearly 13 hours, he jumped down from about fifteen feet and sustained a sprained back.

He initiated a hunger strike, referring to it as a 30-day Ramadan fasting, before being ultimately deported to London instead of Nigeria.

The legendary Juju musician, Ebenezer Obey, in his 1972 hit album, “Board Members,” contributed to etching his name in Yoruba folklore when he sang about his adventures with the words “Ajala travelled all over the world.”

His name has become synonymous with the concept of travel. It is a popular slang used to playfully tease individuals who have a penchant for being constantly on the move. Such individuals are humorously referred to as “Ajala the traveler.”

Olabisi Ajala surpassed the boundaries of a mere compatriot, becoming the very embodiment of adventure. Fearlessly carving his unique path, he embraced life to the fullest in a way that deeply resonated with him. His remarkable legacy transcends national borders, as he continues to be revered as a legendary figure worldwide. Ajala’s extraordinary journey has left an indelible mark, forever etching his name in the annals of history.

The life led by Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, also known as Ọlábísí Àjàlá, was nothing short of extraordinary. In the 1950s, he embarked on a motorcycle tour that took him across approximately 87 countries. However, in the early days of 1999, he suffered a stroke, and on February 2, 1999, he passed away.

Unfortunately, by the time of his death, Ajala’s fame and wealth had diminished, and he lived a humble life in a poor area of Lagos. Despite his extraordinary adventures and achievements, he departed this world as a simple man in a poor area of Lagos.

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Biography Sports

Meet Ajala ‘The Traveller’ — Man Who Toured The World With A Scooter

Every passionate traveller or globetrotter from Nigeria has heard their friends, families, or acquaintances refer to them as Ajala. Ajala became a publicist, and his incredible showmanship inspired many musicians, including Portable, Ebenezer Obey, Ayinde Barrister, and Sunny Ade, to write songs about him.

Who is Ajala? 

Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, popularly known as “Labs Ajala,” was a journalist, travel writer, and actor.

He is well known for being a globetrotter. His single book, An African Abroad, was released in 1963 and chronicled his travel experiences. His name is now synonymous with travel in Nigeria. His name is still used in Nigerian slang to make fun of people who can’t seem to settle down anywhere.

Moshood Olabisi Ajala, a 26-year-old psychology student from London, set out on his Vespa scooter on April 27, 1957, for a voyage that would take him through 40 countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa. 

He was dressed in full, ostentatious agbada regalia and a matching cap. Olabisi made a comparable journey as a pre-medical student in the United States, cycling 3,800 miles over ten cities from Chicago to Los Angeles four years prior. He will travel for nine months, covering 30,000 miles in 40 different countries, under the moniker “This Safari,” before returning to London.

His journey

In his book “An African Abroad,” Olabisi described his meeting with Gamal Abdel Nasser, who was Egypt’s president at the time:

“Every day at 6 am for the next two weeks, I was waiting directly in front of his presidential palace, hoping he would come out. On the 13th day of my hitherto unpromising efforts, around 5 pm, President Naseer emerged from the interior of his residence heading for his car. ”

The thickly bearded Olabisi shouted as loud as he could while wearing his agbada, drawing the president’s attention. The president gave him a warm welcome.

Olabisi’s ruthless and extreme approach to travel earned him notoriety and got him into trouble at some point too.

He also had meetings with other influential international leaders, including the American president Ronald Reagan, the Soviet Union’s Nikita Sergeyevich, Egypt’s President Anwar Sadat, and the Shah of Iran at the time.

The Lebanese security force detained him as he crossed into Israel, assuming he was on an Israeli spy assignment.

His travels carried him to urban and rural areas where black men had never set foot. The “frightening sight” of the black guy invading their village forced some villagers to flee in panic upon his arrival at a farm in Minsk, then in the Soviet Union, which is now in Belarus.

He ended up staying longer than the planned initially nine months, and he was frequently detained. In his six-year travels around the world, he stopped in 87 different countries (from North America to Eastern and Western Europe, through Africa and Asia and as far east as Korea, Indonesia and Australia). 

Ajala in the Box office

Ajala’s exploits paved the way for him to enter the world of movies and several television appearances in traditional African attire.

He appeared in White Witch Doctor, a film produced by 20th Century Fox, for which he was paid $300 per week.

By 1955, he had signed a contract with Hollywood’s Eagle Lion’s studio to make films with European and African themes.

He also played “Ola,” a sidekick to “Loni,” a famous African hunter played by Roberts Mitshun.

Ajala’s latter days

Ajala made lots of fortunes and lived a flamboyant life. Marrying several women across the world. Ajala’s extravagant life became difficult to maintain in his final days, and the wealth he had amassed over the years gradually dwindled to penury. In Lagos, he lived in a two-story building in Bariga, where he managed to live with a stroke until he died in a general hospital in Lagos in February 1999 at the age of seventy.

Regardless, Ajala made history. And also experienced life. He accomplished something that no Nigerian or African could do today. His youth was nothing compared to the average person’s accomplishments in two lifetimes. His legacy endures.

The information in this article was curated from online sources. NewsWireNGR or its editorial team cannot independently verify all details.

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Oladips – Àjàlá Travel

Nigerian indigenous rapper-singer Oladips comes through with brand new music titled “ Àjàlá Travel “, a cover of Ghanaian singer Black Sherif’s song “ Kwaku The Traveller “.

The new record “Ajala Travel” is a fantastic track for your listening pleasure. It fills in as a follow-up to his previously released song titled “Birthday Finesse”.

Listen and share Oladips – “Àjàlá Travel” below.

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I ❤️ love this song 🎵

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Album: Àjàlá Travel EP by Oladips

• Artist: Oladips
• Runtime: 28 minutes, 8 Songs
• Genre: Afrobeats

Indigenous Nigerian artist, Oladips  releases a new solid project called “ Apala Travel EP ”.

Moreover, the project has eight (8) solid tracks with guest appearance from Portable, Zlatan, Ice Prince, Magnito, Pasuma and others.

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Oladips Àjàlá Travel EP Tracklist

Ajala travel (kweku the traveller), ajala travel (remix), ajàlá travel (super remix), ajala travel (street remix), àjàlá travel (abuja remix), àjàlá travel (wazobia remix), ajala travel (fuji remix), àjàlá travel (amapiano remix).

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Oladips – Àjàlá Travel (Kwaku The Traveller)

Àjàlá travel (kwaku the traveller) by oladips.

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Oladipupo Olabode Oladimeji professionally known by his stage name as  Oladips  is a young talented Nigerian vocalist and song composer who emerged to the music front with an awesome and quite interesting hit song captioned “ Àjàlá Travel ” a cover of the buzzing hit song by Black Sherif “ Kwaku The Traveller “.

On the other side, the incredible masterwork record “Àjàlá Travel” serves as a follow-up to the earlier hit single dubbed, “ Yakasufe “.

This is a magnificent and incredible hit single that you wouldn’t want to miss for anything.

Finally, this is indeed an absolute heart endearing hit tune that should definitely be found in your playlist if you are a lover of good and decent music.

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2 years ago

Hi sfgsjshs sure sounds super sweet babe you have

this song is out already. why is it not yet available for download here?

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30 Of The Best Travel Friendly Instruments

Do you like to play a musical instrument while traveling? You probably wonder what the most travel-friendly instrument is. I’m here to help you out! And created this unique list of the 30 best travel-friendly instruments you can easily take with you while traveling. Let’s check it out! 

When you think of an instrument you can take with you while traveling, most people think of the Ukelele. A thought I completely understand since I’m playing on my Ukelele all the time and bring it almost everywhere while traveling. 

A Ukelele is a small string instrument, most of the time with 4 strings. The Ukelele is not only perfect for traveling because of its size. Also, it’s an original Hawaiian instrument with a unique tropical sound. Playing the Ukelele brings you directly into a vacation and traveler’s mood. 

Playing the Ukelele is relatively easy. Once you learn the basic strumming patterns and some different chords, you can easily learn to play hundreds of other songs. 

Keep in mind, though, that the Ukelele comes in different sizes. The smallest Ukelele, known as a ‘Soprano Ukelele,’ is 53cm (20 inches) long on average and perfect for taking with you for traveling. 

Other sizes are a Concert Ukelele, Tenor Ukelele, Baritone Ukelele. 

The longer the size, the lower the sound on the Ukelele. But also, it’s easier to play chords on a longer Ukelele when you have large hands or long fingers. That’s the reason why I prefer to play the Tenor Ukelele. I can easily place my fingers to play the chords and maintain that unique Hawaiian sound. Still, I bring a Soprano Ukelele with me most of the time while traveling; just because it’s so small, it doesn’t take up much space. 

Do you want to buy a Ukelele for traveling? You can find the latest prices here on Amazon . 

The Kalimba is originally an African instrument, also known as Mbira. It’s an instrument that belongs to the Lammelophone instruments. You’ll find variations of this instrument all over the African continent in different sizes, shapes, and amounts of keys. 

On average, the Kalimba has 12 keys mounted on a wooden soundboard. Since it’s an instrument you play by hand, the wooden soundboard is small so that you can easily hold it. You play the keys by strumming the ends with your thumbs or index finger. 

We use the Kalimba to play relaxing melodies and sometimes existing songs. The Kalimba is often small and easy to carry on, with an average size of 12cm (5inch) by 17cm (7 inches). 

Some kalimbas are very expensive, but these are often used for professional use or made of unique wood. I recommend buying a cheaper one since you’ll take it with you while traveling. You can quickly get cheaper, and good-quality Kalimba’s on Amazon (check out the latest prices). 

3) Harmonica

When I’m thinking of a harmonica, I always get that gypsy travelers vibe, you know what I mean, right? A harmonica is a perfect travel instrument since it fits right into your pocket. 

Learning to play the harmonica is straightforward, but it can take some time to truly master the technique. Once you get that under control, you can easily play all kinds of rhythms you like. 

The harmonica, also known as a mouth organ, is smaller than your pocket and weighs almost nothing. As I said, it is relatively easy to learn. The most important thing is that you learn to control your breathing since the instrument is played using your breath (inhaling vs. exhaling). 

Find out the latest prices for a traveling harmonica on Amazon . 

4) Hang Drum

Oh boy, this one is on my wishlist! I played a hang drum only once during a meditation retreat, and I’ve been hooked ever since. A hang drum, also known as a hand pan, is originally a steel drum with holes or dents that create unique tones when touched.

The original hand pans can be quite big, so they are probably not the easiest to carry on while traveling with a backpack. However, if you’re traveling with a campervan or by car, it’s easy to fit somewhere between your luggage. 

A hang drum is an instrument I would recommend to everyone. The only reason I didn’t buy one yet is that they can be quite expensive, and you really need to take care of them in terms of how to play and store them. And because I don’t always have enough time to play, I feel it’s not the right time to make such an investment. 

It’s also something to keep in mind when buying a Hang Drum. If you find one below, let’s say 1000 euros, it’s probably too good to be true. The reason for this is that hang drums or hand pans are created by hand. So it costs a lot of work to make a quality instrument like this. 

For this reason, I recommend physically visiting a store to try out different drums. Tones, Feel, and how you play differ per hang drum. So you truly want to try it out first before making an investment. 

5) Steel Tongue Drum Pan

This instrument is similar to the earlier mentioned Hand Pan. However, it’s smaller and cheaper. Also, often you play this instrument with sticks instead of your hands. 

Actually, the only way you can compare it with an original hang drum is that both instruments are drum instruments and round. A Tongue Drum is a completely different instrument but still fun to play! And for most backpackers much easier as a carry-on instrument since it’s much smaller. 

A tongue drum is also easier to buy since prices vary between 50 to 250 euros. It makes it an easy instrument to buy online and try out. Find out the latest prices on Amazon here.  

6) Mandolin

The Mandolin is a travel-friendly instrument because of its size. Most Mandolins have an average size of between 13 and 16 inches. 

Because the Mandolin has 4 double strings (8 strings in total), it’s often played with a plectrum (also known as a pick). Learning to play the Mandolin is more complicated than other string instruments like a Ukelele. It’s more difficult because of the double strings that are close together. However, it’s a beautiful and fun instrument to play once you get it! 

Did you know Mandolins are often used in Folk music? A music genre that’s closely related to traveling! So, maybe the Mandolin is the perfect travel instrument because of this! 

7) Folding Piano

Yes, that’s right, you can bring a piano while traveling and it doesn’t take up much space at all. Let me tell you more! 

A folding piano is perfect when you love to play the piano. On average, and when folded, the piano is only 33 centimeters (13 inches). The piano is very lightweight and weighs only 1.6 kilograms! Best of all, you can play on 88 keys when unfolded, and it’s easy to use the built-in speakers or your headphone if you want to play in silence. 

Since this piano is an electric version, you can easily connect it to your computer. Use or create your own samples or other things to create some unique music! 

The battery can last up to 8 hours of playing time, which is perfect if you have to wait for a transfer while traveling or just being on the road. 

I saved the best for last. It only costs you around 100 USD! Prices may vary. You can find the latest price here on Amazon . 

8) DJ Controller

When you’re more into creating digital music, I got the perfect solution for you! A DJ controller can be a travel-friendly instrument to bring with you once you pick the right one. And that can be a difficult search process because many DJ Controllers are available on the market. 

Keep in mind that you don’t have a lot of space for your luggage and instruments while traveling most of the time. So, the DJ controller must be small, easy to carry, and lightweight. Most DJ controllers are compatible with software on your laptop, smartphone, or tablet. 

Depending on your preference and if you want to create, you can choose different DJ controllers perfect for traveling. However, the Hercules DJ control Starlight is a controller that is the ideal choice for many DJs. Easy to use and easy to fit in a backpack. Find out the latest price on Amazon.  

9) Bongo Drums

“Drum drum away. It’s time for the Bongo to play!” I really love this instrument, especially when you really master it. The Caribbean vibes you get when someone plays the bongo drums always feel like a summer carnival! 

Do you love to play Bongo Drums? To bring a set of bongo drums, it’s important to choose the right size. This way, you can easily carry the Bongo Drums with you while traveling. 

This Bongo Drum set available on Amazon is perfect for traveling since its size is only 6 and 7 inches. It comes in an easy carry-on bag. Find out the latest price on Amazon . 

10) Portable Cajon Box

Let’s stay in the drums for the following instruments. I really love to play the Cajon. It gives me almost similar vibes as the bongo drums. Also, it’s just so easy to play. You can literally dream away while playing on the Cajon Box. However, an original Cajon Box isn’t suitable for traveling because of its size. 

Luckily there’s a perfect solution to this problem! Let’s learn more about the Travel Cajon! 

A Travel Cajon has the size of a small tablet and comes in an easy carry-on bag. The size is only 29 by 23 cm (11 to 9 inches). The surface, made of wood, has two zones for bass and snare drum that are easy to play. Find out the latest price on Amazon .

11) Bluetooth Drum Kit

Traveling for drummers can be difficult since bringing a complete drum kit along while traveling is almost impossible. However, there are several options to bring some sort of drum kit with you to enjoy playing your favorite instrument. 

Earlier, we mentioned some carry-on and portable drum instruments like the bongo drum and travel Cajon. But to play as a traditional drummer, you have some different options. However, the best option is the virtual reality drum kit from Aeroband. These drum sticks connect easily with your device via Bluetooth. The drum kit includes an 8 pad drum pad with two-foot sensors so you can easily play the bass drum as well. 

The aero band drum set is best for travelers because it’s easy to carry on. All you need is your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to connect the drum set, and you can play your drums how you like them at home! Find out the latest price on Amazon . 

12) Tamborim Drum

Bringing a classic tamborim drum is always fun while traveling. You can easily play some nice rhythms while on your own or relaxing with friends. But what I like most about this instrument is that it allows you to play along with other musicians you meet on the road. 

A tamborim drum fits in most travel backpacks and suitcases. And if you buy one that includes a traveler’s case, you can always take it with you as a carry-on instrument. 

Also, it’s one of the cheaper instruments to buy, and prices vary between 15 Dollars and 50 Dollars on average. The cost of a Tamborim drum depends on the drum’s material. Find your favorite Tamborim Drum on Amazon . 

13) Traveler Guitar Acoustic

Some guitar players just can’t go without their guitar, so they always bring the instrument along while traveling. Depending on what kind of music you play and where you travel, you can decide to bring one of your more expensive models or find a cheaper one that is easier to carry on and also doesn’t costs much when it gets broken or something. 

You really need to consider the way you travel so you can decide which instrument you bring with you. If you bring an acoustic guitar, make sure to also get a hard-top guitar case. Your acoustic guitar is much more protected for transport during traveling.  Find out the latest prices on Amazon .

14) Traveler Guitar Electric

When you love to play Electric Guitar, bringing one with you can be a hassle since you always need to have an amplifier to play it. Luckily, electric guitars are available with built-in amplifiers, but these aren’t very good for advanced guitar players. 

Your best way to go is to get a traveler model or just bring your good old electric guitar with a small traveler amp. For example, ‘the VOX amp plug is a great amplifier that can even fit in your pocket! You can find out the latest price on Amazon . 

15) Melodica

This handheld instrument is perfect for bringing while traveling. A Melodica is similar to a pump organ and harmonica, but the difference is that a Melodica also has a keyboard on top. This gives you more possibilities to play different tones. 

16) Recorder (Traditional Flute) 

A recorder is easy to carry on Flute, so perfect for traveling. Did you know this Flute got its name all the way back in the 14th century? According to the stories, this Flute was used when students were trying to learn a new piece. Studying and learning were known as recording, hence the name. 

A flute comes in different sizes and is made from different materials. But almost always, it will fit in your backpack or suitcase. 

17) Pan Flute

Suppose you’re looking for a more traditional instrument that is easy to carry on. In that case, I recommend bringing a pan flute. 

A Pan Flute is known as a traditional folk instrument. You can find them in different sizes and often they are made of a different material. However, for traveling, a standard size is more recommended. 

18) Bamboo Flute

It might look like a recorder, but the Bamboo Flute is something different. Did you know it’s the oldest flute instrument ever found? Archaeologists found bamboo flutes more than 40000 years old! 

And another funny thing, you can easily make it yourself!

19) Travel Digeridoo 

I really love this instrument! Maybe because it brings me back to when we traveled to Australia. However, a traditional Digeridoo isn’t that easy to bring while traveling. But if you can go without one, you can always go for the Travel Digeridoo. 

Yes, a small handheld variation of a traditional digeridoo that you can easily bring while traveling. Find out the latest price on Amazon . 

You can always bring a flute when traveling. It’s easy to pack and always fun to play. We already mentioned different types of flutes that are perfect for bringing while traveling. 

Find out which Flute you like to play the most before deciding which one to take on your next travel adventure. 

21) Tambourine

Do you like to play rhythms? Bringing a tambourine can be a fun instrument for traveling. I feel a tambourine is especially interesting if you meet a lot of other people during your travels. If you like to play music with other travelers, a Tambourine always fits in. 

You probably need an extra bag to bring this instrument, but if you like to play some rhythms, a Djembe is always a good idea. It’s perfect for connecting with locals because everyone always wants to play on the Djembe.

Find out the best Travel Djembe here on Amazon.  

23) Concertina

I recently learned about this instrument and would love to play it once. It’s kind of a mini accordion, but also different. Because of its size, a Concertina is perfect for traveling. 

A concertina is very easy to play and extra fun because it’s not a very popular instrument. So you’ll always meet other people while playing the concertina because many will be interested. 

24) Mini Accordion

An Accordion is different from a concertina because of its size and that it also has a keyboard. Traditional Accordions are fairly big, so they are not ideal for bringing with you while traveling. However, you can always go for a mini accordion that fit’s in a small case or carry-on bag. 

I really love the sound that comes from an Accordion. So, if you love folk music as well, I think you just found your favorite travel-friendly instrument. Find out the latest prices for mini accordions on Amazon.  

25) Your Smartphone

Yes, you can easily use your smartphone as an instrument. And since you’ll probably bring one with you, it’s the perfect travel instrument if you love to create some digital music. However, the downside is that it’s very individual. 

I don’t like using my smartphone all the time. When traveling, I feel it’s the worst device to bring constantly with you because it keeps you away from connecting 1on1 with fellow travelers or local people. 

26) Orba Handheld Synth

Bringing a synth can be difficult when traveling because of its size. But a Handheld Synth is perfect because you can easily fit it in your backpack. Even better, it’s pocket size! 

This unique design makes it perfect if you want to create some digital music along the road. 

27) Plastic Saxophone

Are you a saxophone player? When you go traveling for a longer period, you probably don’t want to leave your saxophone behind. But there’s a solution! Probably not the most ideal if you are a more advanced player. Still, you can play your favorite instrument while traveling. Bring a plastic Saxophone! 

Why plastic? Because it’s lightweight, easy to assemble, and if it gets broken or lost, it doesn’t cost you a fortune!

28) Plastic Trumpet

Yes, there’s also a plastic variant for Trumpet Players. It weighs less than 500 grams! Perfect lightweight instrument to bring while traveling. Again, it’s probably not the best instrument for advanced players, but it still allows you to play while traveling. Find out the latest prices on Amazon . 

29) Midi Controller

Bringing a midi controller and your laptop or smartphone lets you effortlessly switch between (digital) instruments. Playing different instruments was never that simple, and it all fits in your backpack. 

The only downside for bringing a midi controller while traveling is that it’s individual. You won’t be able to play music with other people since you’ll be focusing on producing music on your computer most of the time instead of going out there. Still, it can be fun to bring such an instrument and create awesome songs together when you travel with like-minded people! 

30) Travel Violin

What differentiates a travel violin from a normal violin? I would say material and price. Regular Violins are often expensive instruments that you don’t want to bring while traveling around. Unless you are a professional musician and travel to play a concert or something. 

If you just play the Violin as a hobby, I would say bring a cheaper one while traveling. It will always fit in a small carry-on case, which you can easily bring while traveling.

Recommended Articles

You probably found an instrument that you want to bring while traveling. You might be interested in reading one of my other articles as well. I recommend you start with   What Inspires You To Travel?

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