From sleeping in a swag under the stars in outback Australia to sipping Champagne in an over-water bungalow in Tahiti, travel writing has taken me on an unforgettable journey.
Elephant Camp, Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa, Thailand
I’ve abseiled underground in New Zealand, been shark calling in Papua New Guinea, swimming with elephants in Thailand and watched turtles nesting on the Great Barrier Reef.
Grasping the opportunities travel presents I’ve scared myself witless on a mountain bike, by crossing the road in Ho Chi Minh City and braving the world’s fastest roller coaster in Abu Dhabi. (Though I still have the wits not to bungy jump.)
I’ve puffed up the steps of the Great Wall of China, pedalled my way round Central Park in New York, sashayed on a Segway through Beverly Hills and swung my leg over a Harley Davidson in Cape Town.
Falcon Hospital, Abu Dhabi
I’ve ridden horses, elephants and camels; been snorkelling, kayaking, white water rafting and sailing; gone aloft parasailing, ballooning and by helicopter. I’ve had fishy exfoliations, been privy to lions mating, have cuddled a koala and balanced a falcon on my wrist.
From the pungent odour of a wet market on a hot day to the soothing infusion of jasmine in a health retreat, from the raucous hubbub of city traffic to the silence of the desert, from the heart-wrenching sight of a maimed beggar to the spontaneous smile of a stranger, and from the face-wrinkling taste of a fried insect to the caress of an elephant’s hide, travel sharpens awareness, arouses the senses and engages you with your surroundings. (Oh, I nearly forgot the gut-twisting pain of diarrhoea.)
Along the way I’ve been humbled by the generosity of those with so little – and sometimes ashamed by the action of those with so much. I’ve been inspired by people I can barely communicate with and forged friendships that have lasted a trip or a lifetime.
Cinque Terre, Italy
I’m privileged to travel so extensively and I’d be honoured if you’d like to join me via my blog. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, occasional traveller or just want to daydream from your armchair, I’d love to have you onboard.
Here I share travel tips, reviews, insights and observations, plus other titbits that don’t make it into my mainstream publishing. Please subscribe by email or RSS feed and follow me on Facebook or Twitter.
Happy travels!
