Inspiration

Travel, Create and Discover - Inspirational Stories for the Adventurous Mind

On this inspiration page, I share my favorite tips, places, stories and music to enrich your journey of discovery. From stories about our unique clothes and hidden gems to practical travel hacks and my favorite hotels, this collection is filled with personal recommendations. With this page, I want to encourage you to hit the road yourself and explore the world with open eyes.

Everything you find here comes directly from my own experiences and passion. These inspiration stories are a pure collection of what touches and inspires me, with no commercial influences – an honest window into the world as I see it.

Jan Boelo sitting behind his sewing machine

My Journey in Fashion

Fashion is my lifelong passion and a tool for self-expression. After stepping back to reflect, I’m thrilled to relaunch JANBOELO with a renewed vision focused on authenticity, empowerment, and sustainability. Discover the story behind the brand's transformation and my journey as a designer.

Jan Boelo visiting the Karamajong tribe in Karamoja Uganda to see how they make leather from goat skin

How Karamoja Shaped My Vision

Travelling through Karamoja opened my eyes to the global impact of fast fashion and the urgent need for sustainability. From witnessing the excess of second-hand clothing to collaborating with local designers, this journey shaped my vision for quality, ethical fashion.

A pile of fabrics, swatches and zippers in the studio of Luymes en Drenth

Studio Luymes & Drenth on Spotify

Step into the creative flow of Studio Luymes&Drenth with this carefully curated playlist. A mix of calming melodies and energising beats, it’s the perfect background to focus your mind, boost your energy, and bring your ideas to life with precision and inspiration.

Jan Boelo posing with Fred Masaba from Elgon Safaris Uganda at Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve in Uganda

Elgon Safaris Uganda

Elgon Safaris Uganda offers more than just a trip; it is a unique experience through the pristine beauty of East Africa. Together with guides Freddy and Ema, you will discover hidden gems and meet local communities. An unforgettable trip that brings you closer to nature and culture.

The streets of Namalu in Karamoja, Uganda

East African Journeys on Spotify

Experience the chaos, charm, and beauty of Uganda's countryside through the beats of my East African Journeys playlist. From bustling villages to lush landscapes, this soundtrack brings the vibrant energy of East Africa to life - one track at a time.

A bird of prey sitting on a tree in Masaai Mara

Savannah Serenades on Spotify

Experience the tranquillity of Africa’s savannahs. This playlist, inspired by Uganda’s Pian Upe and Kidepo Valley, captures the calm beauty of endless grasslands, graceful wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets with soft acoustic melodies and dreamy vocals.

The reception of Salem Uganda Guesthouse in Nakaloke Uganda

Salem Uganda Guesthouse

Discover the tranquillity and authenticity of Salem Uganda Guesthouse, a hidden gem near Mbale. Here you will enjoy spacious rooms, top-class hospitality and at the same time support an inspiring organisation that supports the local community.

The view of the beach when you arrive by boat at Hatta Island, part of the Banda Islands in Indonesia

Banda Islands, Indonesia

Discover the enchanting beauty of the Banda Islands, a hidden gem in Indonesia filled with rich history, pristine nature, and breathtaking dive sites. Read about my journey to this magical destination and get inspired for your own adventure to the original Spice Islands!

The view of the beach when you go by boat to Ay Island, part of the Banda Islands in Indonesia

Melodies of the Moluccas on Spotify

Let Melodies of the Moluccas transport you to Indonesia’s sun-drenched islands. This playlist captures the serenity of white beaches, the rhythm of waves, and the magic of drifting through paradise. Feel the freedom and the pure bliss of escaping to a world where time stands still.

A fort in Rajasthan, India

Rhythms of Rajastan on Spotify

Immerse yourself in the duality of Rajasthan with Rhythms of Rajasthan. This playlist reflects the vibrant chaos of bustling cities and the serene beauty of endless desert landscapes, blending traditional Indian beats with soothing, meditative sounds.

The view on the river from a klotok when you float the river at Tanjung Puting National Park at Borneo, Indonesia

Borneo Soundscapes on Spotify

Embark on a tranquil journey through Borneo’s rainforests with Borneo Soundscapes. This playlist echoes the gentle rhythm of boat rides, the vibrant green of the jungle, and the serene melody of nature’s symphony, perfect for moments of creativity and quiet reflection.

‘Vintage or Violence’ by Bobby Kolade

Exploring Further: 'Vintage or Violence,' the thought-provoking podcast by Ugandan designer Bobby Kolade. Through his unique lens, Kolade explores the impact of second-hand fashion on Africa and offers innovative solutions to global textile waste.

Jan Boelo posing with Fred Masaba from Elgon Safaris Uganda at Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve in Uganda

Elgon Safaris Uganda

Elgon Safaris Uganda offers more than just a trip; it is a unique experience through the pristine beauty of East Africa. Together with guides Freddy and Ema, you will discover hidden gems and meet local communities. An unforgettable trip that brings you closer to nature and culture.

Jan Boelo visiting the Karamajong tribe in Karamoja Uganda to see how they make leather from goat skin

How Karamoja Shaped My Vision

Travelling through Karamoja opened my eyes to the global impact of fast fashion and the urgent need for sustainability. From witnessing the excess of second-hand clothing to collaborating with local designers, this journey shaped my vision for quality, ethical fashion.

The reception of Salem Uganda Guesthouse in Nakaloke Uganda

Salem Uganda Guesthouse

Discover the tranquillity and authenticity of Salem Uganda Guesthouse, a hidden gem near Mbale. Here you will enjoy spacious rooms, top-class hospitality and at the same time support an inspiring organisation that supports the local community.

The view of the beach when you arrive by boat at Hatta Island, part of the Banda Islands in Indonesia

Banda Islands, Indonesia

Discover the enchanting beauty of the Banda Islands, a hidden gem in Indonesia filled with rich history, pristine nature, and breathtaking dive sites. Read about my journey to this magical destination and get inspired for your own adventure to the original Spice Islands!

Jan Boelo sitting behind his sewing machine

My Journey in Fashion

Fashion is my lifelong passion and a tool for self-expression. After stepping back to reflect, I’m thrilled to relaunch JANBOELO with a renewed vision focused on authenticity, empowerment, and sustainability. Discover the story behind the brand's transformation and my journey as a designer.

Jan Boelo visiting the Karamajong tribe in Karamoja Uganda to see how they make leather from goat skin

How Karamoja Shaped My Vision

Travelling through Karamoja opened my eyes to the global impact of fast fashion and the urgent need for sustainability. From witnessing the excess of second-hand clothing to collaborating with local designers, this journey shaped my vision for quality, ethical fashion.

A pile of fabrics, swatches and zippers in the studio of Luymes en Drenth

Studio Luymes & Drenth on Spotify

Step into the creative flow of Studio Luymes&Drenth with this carefully curated playlist. A mix of calming melodies and energising beats, it’s the perfect background to focus your mind, boost your energy, and bring your ideas to life with precision and inspiration.

The streets of Namalu in Karamoja, Uganda

East African Journeys on Spotify

Experience the chaos, charm, and beauty of Uganda's countryside through the beats of my East African Journeys playlist. From bustling villages to lush landscapes, this soundtrack brings the vibrant energy of East Africa to life - one unforgettable track at a time.

A bird of prey sitting on a tree in Masaai Mara

Savannah Serenades on Spotify

Experience the tranquillity of Africa’s savannahs. This playlist, inspired by Uganda’s Pian Upe and Kidepo Valley, captures the calm beauty of endless grasslands, graceful wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets with soft acoustic melodies and dreamy vocals.

The view of the beach when you go by boat to Ay Island, part of the Banda Islands in Indonesia

Melodies of the Moluccas on Spotify

Let Melodies of the Moluccas transport you to Indonesia’s sun-drenched islands. This playlist captures the serenity of white beaches, the rhythm of waves, and the magic of drifting through paradise. Feel the freedom and the pure bliss of escaping to a world where time stands still.

A fort in Rajasthan, India

Rhythms of Rajastan on Spotify

Immerse yourself in the duality of Rajasthan with Rhythms of Rajasthan. This playlist reflects the vibrant chaos of bustling cities and the serene beauty of endless desert landscapes, blending traditional Indian beats with soothing, meditative sounds.

The view on the river from a klotok when you float the river at Tanjung Puting National Park at Borneo, Indonesia

Borneo Soundscapes on Spotify

Embark on a tranquil journey through Borneo’s rainforests with Borneo Soundscapes. This playlist echoes the gentle rhythm of boat rides, the vibrant green of the jungle, and the serene melody of nature’s symphony, perfect for moments of creativity and quiet reflection.

More inspiration stories will follow. I am continuously exploring new places, ideas, and creative techniques to share with you. Want to stay updated? Follow JANBOELO on Instagram for the latest stories, or check back here regularly to discover new inspirations firsthand.