I met Derek in Arcata, California at a rest stop. He was walking down the street with a big pack on his back and a small dog on his shoulders. This was the first time I had ever asked someone I didn’t know if I could take their photograph. I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity though, I just didn’t think I’d ever see something like this again.

When I asked if he would mind if I took him and his dog’s photo, he insisted I remember the dog’s name, even spelling it out for me. Chalupa. So Adorable! How could I forget? He was sort of caught off guard when I asked for his name. I guess people usually only care about the dog.

I ended up talking with Derek for about 15-20 minutes. He told me about his travels, where he’s been, where he’s from and of course, where he got Chalupa. He saved her from a pretty terrible situation. She was underfed, underweight and under appreciated. Derek’s love for his dog was unrivalled by anyone I’ve ever met and I’m so glad I got to meet him.

It’s people like this that make travelling so wonderful. The sites are great, the food is always good but the people, they’re the part that makes this all worth while.

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