I remember getting excited as a kid whenever we were going on a journey. As we packed the car, the dog would be running between the house and the open car; confused and excited and nervous at the same time, worried she may not be involved. The majority of the holidays at that time were either to Blackpool or Ireland, and even though my brother and I would fight every mile of the way, and moan about the fumes of smoke coming from the front seats, it was an adventure. Once I was old enough, I was allowed to venture out with friends; my first holiday being in Cyprus with JK, Si and Rach. The addiction began early!

It was my Auntie V and good friend Louise, along with the support of my parents, that inspired me to plan more than a holiday. In 2001, I set off with Baz on the adventure of a lifetime – a round the world trip for 9 months. I have never looked back!

Within this section, working backwards, I will highlight some of the breath-taking parts of the countries I have visited, and more importantly, the amazing people I have met along the way. For me, it is the folk you meet that makes travelling so special. I have visited the most beautiful places on this planet, but without those special people and the relationships built, the places mentioned would only be places.

Taking into consideration my atrocious memory, I will try to add information that may help you if you are planning on visiting these countries. Much of it will be out of date, so please don’t hold me accountable for any routes, hostels, prices or names, which may well have changed a long time ago!

Big love!x