Mbunza visit: otherwise entitled the dug-out canoe fiasco So, we just got out of this dug-out canoe, from a crocodile and hippo-infested lake, with a Mbunza tribesman. I say got out. That’s a simplification of the situation. First, I was pushed by Iain from behind, then pulled by the tribesman from the front, before finally kind of, falling out. Tumbling if you like...
Huangluo Long hair village: where they all have, well, long hair Welcome to Huangluo Long Hair Village, an ancient Chinese village renowned for its unique tradition of long hair (some as long as 7 feet) and its belief in rice water’s magical properties. As we explored this remote village, we became immersed in a world of age-old traditions, captivating stories and...
Bolivia is beautiful Bolivia, a country brimming with natural wonders and rich cultural heritage, captivated our hearts from the moment we arrived. The diverse landscapes, from the majestic Andes mountains to the mystical Amazon rainforest and the enchanting Uyuni Salt Flats, left us in awe of Mother Nature’s splendour. The warm hospitality of Bolivians and their...
Calgary Stampede – if it’s good enough for royalty… Rodeos have a long and complex history that dates back to the early days of cattle ranching in North America. They originated in the late 19th century as informal competitions among cattle ranchers and cowboys to showcase their skills in handling livestock. Over time, these events evolved into more...
What to pack. What not to pack? Pack the bag time! How do you pack for a year around the world? The packing began about three months before we left. I started assembling what I considered I might need, purchased a suitable bag, discovered I had room to spare and thought, this will be a doddle. It was not. As time passed, the packing pile became bigger… and...
There are no tigers in Kenya. Ranthambore tigers, will we see one at last? So, in 1994, we went on our Honeymoon to Kenya. It was Iain’s idea, not that I minded, it was fantastic. I just never imagined at that time that I would ever end up in such a place. Anyway, a few days in, having seen lions, elephants, rhino – Iain said he was disappointed he...
Reverse culture shock – Hello darkness my old friend Reverse culture shock. I’d heard about it. When you arrive home, and to your eyes, everything is as it was. But to your heart, it’s all so different. Well, it’s 6 a.m., and I’ve been ‘home’ for just under two weeks, and I’m just tired. I have slept little since being home. I have done nothing very productive...
Mumbai: The haves and the have-nots Dharavi Mumbai slum? When leaving Mumbai, I took a video during take-off, and the astounding sight emerged of a vast ‘slum’. Families living alongside the major international airport in the prosperous part of the city came into view as we taxied down the runway. The sight appeared shocking to my unaccustomed, westernised eye. I had...
