Our Not-So-Lonely Planet Travel Guide (Bokura no Chikyuu no Arukikata), the beloved boys’ love (BL) travelogue manga by Mone Sorai, is set to conclude with its next chapter. Fans have followed the global adventures and evolving relationship of protagonists Asahi Suzumura and Mitsuki Sayama since the manga began serialization in MAGCOMI in 2020.
The Journey Nears Its End for Asahi and Mitsuki
The announcement marks the culmination of a heartfelt series that has captivated readers with its unique blend of travel, romance, and self-discovery. The manga has been serialized since 2020 and has seen multiple volumes published, with the English editions handled by Tokyopop’s LOVE x LOVE imprint. The series has garnered praise for its detailed depictions of various international locations and cuisines, as well as its nuanced exploration of a gay couple navigating their relationship and societal perceptions.
A Global Romance Unfolds
Our Not-So-Lonely Planet Travel Guide centers on the relationship between the earnest Asahi Suzumura and the free-spirited Mitsuki Sayama. The premise of their journey is a unique one: after Asahi quits his job, he proposes to Mitsuki that they will travel the world together, and upon their return to Japan, they will get married. This “pre-wedding honeymoon” serves as the backdrop for their exploration of different cultures, people, and, most importantly, their own evolving bond.
Throughout their travels, from the bustling streets of Thailand to the historic sites of England and the vast landscapes of the Sahara, Asahi and Mitsuki encounter a diverse cast of characters and experiences that challenge and strengthen their relationship. The manga delves into themes of internalized homophobia, particularly concerning Asahi’s anxieties about being an openly gay couple in Japanese society, contrasting with Mitsuki’s desire for an open and confident relationship. This conflict provides a relatable and often heartbreaking emotional core to their adventures.
Artistic Detail and Cultural Immersion
Mone Sorai, also known as Avil Abey, is a prolific BL manga artist. Sorai’s dedication to detail is evident in the manga’s artwork, with many readers noting the effort put into drawing various locations and food with great care. The vibrant illustrations of the tourist spots, local delicacies, and diverse characters contribute significantly to the immersive travel experience for the reader. While not a deep dive into every country’s intricacies, the manga successfully conveys the joy of discovery and connection through travel.
Looking Back at the Series’ Impact
The series has resonated with a broad audience, appealing to fans of travel, romance, slice-of-life, and LGBTQ+ narratives. It has been praised for presenting an established relationship rather than focusing solely on the early stages of romance, offering a refreshing perspective within the BL genre. The slow unraveling of a past event, hinted at throughout the volumes, has also kept readers invested in Asahi and Mitsuki’s personal journeys and the depth of their commitment to each other.
As Our Not-So-Lonely Planet Travel Guide prepares for its final chapter, fans will undoubtedly reflect on the many miles traveled and the emotional growth witnessed within its pages. The conclusion promises to bring resolution to Asahi and Mitsuki’s global expedition and their personal quest for happiness and acceptance.
