My name is Bas van Gaalen, born in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, on March 18, 1953. I’ve lived a life on the move, relocating 39 times and calling eight countries home—Netherlands, France, Spain, Bahrain, USA, Canada, Thailand, and New Zealand—most I’ve also worked and built memories.
As a child, I sensed I was different. My sensitivity (Pisces, through and through) made life challenging but never dull. I saw the world in ways others didn’t, a trait that’s shaped me over the years. Often misunderstood, I’ve spent my life chasing big, “impossible” dreams—and I’m proud to say many have come true.
My journey is a collage of experiences: building houses and boats, sailing across oceans, flying helicopters, and navigating both triumphs and trials. Through it all, my wonderful wife, Agnes, has been my rock, supporting me (not always easy!) through our wildest decisions. We’ve ignored well-meaning advice from friends and family, and because of that, we’ve lived a life without a single day of regret. At 73, I want to pass on the lessons and laughs of a life well-lived.
On MyTimeWander.com, I blend the history of the 1960s to today with my own stories. You’ll find timelines of news and events, backed by facts, woven with my adventures from those years—illustrated with photos and videos. Join me as I wander through time.
“MyTimeWander.com is just starting, unfolding my life-story step by step. Check back for new tales!”
Curious about where we are living now and what we’re up to these days? Feel free to follow our current adventures in:
→ Our Life in Chiang Rai
Would you like to hold on to your own memories and stories, too?
I built a little app for exactly that — timewander. It’s simple, free, and entirely yours: add a memory, a year, a photo, a place, and watch your own life story take shape, decade by decade. No account, no ads, nothing to install from a store — just open it and start here: TimeWander App