As an avid follower of the medium for decades, it is rare to find a series that balances the "slice-of-life" genre with such profound emotional maturity and geographical accuracy. "Our Not-So-Lonely Planet Travel Guide" (Japanese title: *Bokura no Chikyuu no Arukikata*), written and illustrated by the talented Mone Sorai, is a hidden gem that transcends the typical boundaries of its genre. It is not merely a romance; it is a beautifully documented odyssey that explores the complexities of the human heart against the backdrop of our vast, diverse world.
The Premise: A Journey Toward "I Do"
The story follows Asahi and Mitsuki, a devoted couple who decide to embark on an ambitious adventure: a trip around the entire world. However, this isn't just a vacation. Before they left Japan, they made a solemn pact. If, by the end of their global journey, they still feel the same way about each other and believe they are truly compatible, they will get married upon their return.
Asahi is the more serious, pragmatic, and organized of the two, often worrying about logistics and safety. Mitsuki, by contrast, is free-spirited, cheerful, and possesses an insatiable curiosity for local cultures and cuisines. Their contrasting personalities provide the perfect engine for both conflict and growth. As they navigate the bustling streets of Bangkok, the spiritual landscapes of India, and the historic vistas of Europe, they aren't just collecting passport stamps—they are testing the foundations of their relationship in real-time.
Demographics and Genre: Beyond the Labels
While "Our Not-So-Lonely Planet Travel Guide" is technically categorized as Boys' Love (BL), it is crucial to note that it leans heavily into the Josei and Seinen sensibilities. It avoids the exaggerated tropes often found in mainstream BL, opting instead for a grounded, realistic portrayal of a long-term adult relationship.
Serialized in Mag Garden’s *MAGCOMI*, the manga appeals to a broad demographic of adult readers who appreciate "iyashikei" (healing) stories and travelogues. It sits comfortably alongside works like *Yuru Camp* or *A Bride’s Story*, where the setting is as much a character as the protagonists themselves.
Core Themes: Love, Culture, and Identity
The brilliance of Mone Sorai’s work lies in its thematic depth. Here are the three pillars that define the series:
1. The Reality of Long-Term Commitment: Unlike many romances that end at the "confession," this manga starts with an established couple. It explores the "work" required to maintain love—communication, compromise, and the stress of being in close quarters under difficult travel conditions. It asks the question: *Can you love someone even when you’re tired, lost, and frustrated in a foreign land?*
2. Global LGBTQ+ Perspectives: One of the most poignant aspects of the manga is how it addresses the reality of being a gay couple in different parts of the world. Asahi and Mitsuki must constantly navigate how much of their relationship they can show in public depending on the local laws and customs of the country they are visiting. This adds a layer of social commentary that is rare and refreshing in the medium.
3. Cultural Appreciation vs. Tourism: The manga acts as a literal travel guide (the title is a nod to the famous *Lonely Planet* guides). The author provides detailed maps, food recommendations, and historical context for every location. It emphasizes the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone and connecting with people from different walks of life, proving that the world is "not so lonely" when you open yourself up to it.
Visuals and Atmosphere
The art style is clean, expressive, and incredibly detailed when it comes to architecture and scenery. You can feel the heat of the street food stalls and the chill of the mountain air through Sorai’s linework. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the reader to soak in the atmosphere of each country alongside the characters.
Conclusion
"Our Not-So-Lonely Planet Travel Guide" is a masterpiece of modern slice-of-life manga. It is a poignant reminder that while the world is vast and full of differences, the language of love and the desire for connection are universal. Whether you are a travel enthusiast, a fan of nuanced romance, or someone looking for a mature take on LGBTQ+ life, this manga is an essential addition to your collection. It is a journey worth taking, one chapter at a time.
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