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the escape newsletter

The thoughts and ramblings of a guy who is forced to spend some time indoors so writes a newsletter about being outdoors.

Don’t brag. Stay humble. 😛😘❤️

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #travel

Don’t brag. Stay humble. 😛😘❤️

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #travel

Only joking. School is good. 👍🏼
But so is travel. 🧳
Try a bit of both. ✅

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #schooloflife

Only joking. School is good. 👍🏼
But so is travel. 🧳
Try a bit of both. ✅

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #schooloflife

I’m no poet, but hopefully you get the point.
Grateful for the opportunities to experience these incredible places and share this world with wonderful people.

If you’ve been part of the journey, leave a comment because I can’t remember everyone to tag!

Big love. Big thanks. And big excitement for 2026.

I’m no poet, but hopefully you get the point.
Grateful for the opportunities to experience these incredible places and share this world with wonderful people.

If you’ve been part of the journey, leave a comment because I can’t remember everyone to tag!

Big love. Big thanks. And big excitement for 2026.

I just said to Harriet, “we’ve been away for a month but it feels like we’ve been away forever.” Then she just schooled me in something I had no idea about.

New experiences make time feel slower because novelty forces your brain to process more information, creating richer, denser memories that stretch out time in retrospect, unlike routine which makes moments blend together and feel fast.

This “Novelty Effect” means that the more new things you do—travel, learn, explore different routes—the more “memory anchors” you create, making your life feel fuller and longer when you look back, even if the new moments felt quick at the time.

So maybe when it comes to planning your next family trip, do something out of your usual holiday routine. Try new things. Get out of your comfort zone and make it feel like the time you’re away is longer than it actually is.

#adventuretravel #travel #familyadventures #centralamerica

I just said to Harriet, “we’ve been away for a month but it feels like we’ve been away forever.” Then she just schooled me in something I had no idea about.

New experiences make time feel slower because novelty forces your brain to process more information, creating richer, denser memories that stretch out time in retrospect, unlike routine which makes moments blend together and feel fast.

This “Novelty Effect” means that the more new things you do—travel, learn, explore different routes—the more “memory anchors” you create, making your life feel fuller and longer when you look back, even if the new moments felt quick at the time.

So maybe when it comes to planning your next family trip, do something out of your usual holiday routine. Try new things. Get out of your comfort zone and make it feel like the time you’re away is longer than it actually is.

#adventuretravel #travel #familyadventures #centralamerica

It’s easy to try and give them everything we think they want. It’s even easier to overlook the biggest thing they actually need. ❤️

So put down the phone. Switch off the emails. Stop finding jobs to do. Just go and hangout like you would’ve when you were 20.

Ps. I’ve written this caption as a reminder to myself. ❤️❤️

#adventuretravel #travel #familyadventures #family

It’s easy to try and give them everything we think they want. It’s even easier to overlook the biggest thing they actually need. ❤️

So put down the phone. Switch off the emails. Stop finding jobs to do. Just go and hangout like you would’ve when you were 20.

Ps. I’ve written this caption as a reminder to myself. ❤️❤️

#adventuretravel #travel #familyadventures #family

They’re only young once…and so are we. ❤️

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #travel #adventure

They’re only young once…and so are we. ❤️

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #travel #adventure

I’ve thought quite hard about what to share from Christmas and I’ve landed on something that I feel is quite important for me to say.

A number of years ago (I think probably 5 or 6), Harriet and I decided to swap gifts for experiences. That meant that the kids would wake up to a small stocking of bits from Father Christmas and the “big” gift from us would be an experience that they would have that year. When I say big, I mean like a trip to the theatre in London or going on a day trip to a skatepark for a day out, one on one, with either Harriet or myself. It was a way to ensure that we made time to celebrate that individual child at some point, but also to not make Christmas day just about huge displays of abundance.

The first video is what our kids woke up to this year. A sock (yes an actual sock because that’s all we had with us) with the tiniest of gifts - a bar of Toblerone, a pack of playing cards, a stuffed toy and a little wooden frog that makes a noise when you rub a wooden stick up its back.

The second video is the first two hours of our Christmas Day. Just us in an Airbnb room, a makeshift Christmas tree made from a potted monstera plant (that Harriet borrowed from outside) and 3 socks with about $20 worth of gifts that can easily fit in our backpacks. Then a fruit salad on the beach and a bit of splashing in the sea.

I came from a single parent household where myself and my 3 siblings would wake up to an abundance of gifts on Christmas morning. At the time it felt normal and that’s because my mum did her best to make sure that was the case. Every year she would pile presents into the living room to make our Christmas feel like every other child’s. But she had no money and so she’d get herself into serious debt every year to give us everything.

But my point here isn’t to be all righteous about how I think we’ve got it right with our approach. It was just to say thank you to my mum who sacrificed everything to make us feel “normal” as kids and to Harriet for being the driving force behind what Christmas is for us now.

❤️

#christmas #christmas2025 #familytravels

I’ve thought quite hard about what to share from Christmas and I’ve landed on something that I feel is quite important for me to say.

A number of years ago (I think probably 5 or 6), Harriet and I decided to swap gifts for experiences. That meant that the kids would wake up to a small stocking of bits from Father Christmas and the “big” gift from us would be an experience that they would have that year. When I say big, I mean like a trip to the theatre in London or going on a day trip to a skatepark for a day out, one on one, with either Harriet or myself. It was a way to ensure that we made time to celebrate that individual child at some point, but also to not make Christmas day just about huge displays of abundance.

The first video is what our kids woke up to this year. A sock (yes an actual sock because that’s all we had with us) with the tiniest of gifts - a bar of Toblerone, a pack of playing cards, a stuffed toy and a little wooden frog that makes a noise when you rub a wooden stick up its back.

The second video is the first two hours of our Christmas Day. Just us in an Airbnb room, a makeshift Christmas tree made from a potted monstera plant (that Harriet borrowed from outside) and 3 socks with about $20 worth of gifts that can easily fit in our backpacks. Then a fruit salad on the beach and a bit of splashing in the sea.

I came from a single parent household where myself and my 3 siblings would wake up to an abundance of gifts on Christmas morning. At the time it felt normal and that’s because my mum did her best to make sure that was the case. Every year she would pile presents into the living room to make our Christmas feel like every other child’s. But she had no money and so she’d get herself into serious debt every year to give us everything.

But my point here isn’t to be all righteous about how I think we’ve got it right with our approach. It was just to say thank you to my mum who sacrificed everything to make us feel “normal” as kids and to Harriet for being the driving force behind what Christmas is for us now.

❤️

#christmas #christmas2025 #familytravels

Just a bunch of Christmas Dirtbags, living out of a rucksack and having best (and most basic) time this Christmas.

Happy Christmas to you all. ❤️

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #christmas

Just a bunch of Christmas Dirtbags, living out of a rucksack and having best (and most basic) time this Christmas.

Happy Christmas to you all. ❤️

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #christmas

Playa Sámara and their first time on a surf board. 🏄‍♂️ 🌴 🌊

What a joy to witness the absolute exhilaration and pride they all felt when they stood up for the first time.

The downside is that we cannot do anything else now because all they want to do is practice more surfing.

The upside is that for the hours they’re spending in the sea, I don’t have to think about anything else.

Massive shout to the team at @patossurfschool who made the whole thing super fun.

#adventuretravel #travel #familyadventures #surfing

Playa Sámara and their first time on a surf board. 🏄‍♂️ 🌴 🌊

What a joy to witness the absolute exhilaration and pride they all felt when they stood up for the first time.

The downside is that we cannot do anything else now because all they want to do is practice more surfing.

The upside is that for the hours they’re spending in the sea, I don’t have to think about anything else.

Massive shout to the team at @patossurfschool who made the whole thing super fun.

#adventuretravel #travel #familyadventures #surfing

True story.
Welcoming job opportunities immediately.

#adventuretravel #jet2holidays #familyadventures

True story.
Welcoming job opportunities immediately.

#adventuretravel #jet2holidays #familyadventures

I wasn’t going to share this but actually, it’s a pretty good insight into some of the genuine learning the kids are doing just by doing things they love.

Lots of people have asked about school and how we’ve navigated that. It’s actually fairly easy. As we’ve taken them out for such an extended amount of time, we’ve had to de register them. Long story short; that means they aren’t the school’s problem in terms of attendance etc so it’s on us.

Harriet and I decided not to really worry about education whilst we are away as we both knew they’d learn so much just by being here. From picking up bits of language to learning about local people and cultures, they’re learning loads just by being awake each day!

The only thing we have insisted on is that the kids write a blog that they share with their class back home and that has been a huge success. Not only do they love writing it (most of the time), they’re getting live feedback and questions from their teachers and friends at home who comment on the blogs. The excitement of answering those questions is astonishing.

But a few days ago our youngest asked if she could make a video instead of writing a blog and this is what she came up with. She wanted to show her class where she was rather than just tell them.

I’ve decided to share because I am immensely proud of her for not only being super enthusiastic to learn and share those learnings, but also her ability to come up with this little video idea and deliver it. ❤️❤️

So if you’re ever thinking about taking them out of school but worried about the “impact”….its only been positive in our experience.

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #homeschool

I wasn’t going to share this but actually, it’s a pretty good insight into some of the genuine learning the kids are doing just by doing things they love.

Lots of people have asked about school and how we’ve navigated that. It’s actually fairly easy. As we’ve taken them out for such an extended amount of time, we’ve had to de register them. Long story short; that means they aren’t the school’s problem in terms of attendance etc so it’s on us.

Harriet and I decided not to really worry about education whilst we are away as we both knew they’d learn so much just by being here. From picking up bits of language to learning about local people and cultures, they’re learning loads just by being awake each day!

The only thing we have insisted on is that the kids write a blog that they share with their class back home and that has been a huge success. Not only do they love writing it (most of the time), they’re getting live feedback and questions from their teachers and friends at home who comment on the blogs. The excitement of answering those questions is astonishing.

But a few days ago our youngest asked if she could make a video instead of writing a blog and this is what she came up with. She wanted to show her class where she was rather than just tell them.

I’ve decided to share because I am immensely proud of her for not only being super enthusiastic to learn and share those learnings, but also her ability to come up with this little video idea and deliver it. ❤️❤️

So if you’re ever thinking about taking them out of school but worried about the “impact”….its only been positive in our experience.

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #homeschool

Tell me I’m wrong? 😑

#adventuretravel #travel #familyadventures

Tell me I’m wrong? 😑

#adventuretravel #travel #familyadventures

Convincing the kids to go for a walk is hard. Convincing them to go for a walk in the rain is even harder. ☂️

We were met with a lot of resistance ahead of this one and quite a lot of resistance throughout the hike. “Why do we need to go for another stupid walk anyways?”

It’s a good question to be fair and one that isn’t always easy to answer, especially as I wasn’t particularly feeling it either.

But there’s a famous quote by George Mallory on why he wished to climb Mt Everest and the response was simply “Because it is there.”

Obviously this is no Everest but the principle remains the same. I can’t help but feel that if you are somewhere and you have the means and health and all the necessary ingredients to be able to do something…you should just do it.

It might not always make sense or feel like it will be fun but ffs, are you going to look back at your life and regret taking another walk in the rain?

I doubt it.

So have the argument with the kids. Deal with the sour faces. Get a bit cold and damp and justify your decisions 1000 times an hour. You’re teaching them something and enriching your own life.

#adventure #familyadventure #familytravel #panama

Convincing the kids to go for a walk is hard. Convincing them to go for a walk in the rain is even harder. ☂️

We were met with a lot of resistance ahead of this one and quite a lot of resistance throughout the hike. “Why do we need to go for another stupid walk anyways?”

It’s a good question to be fair and one that isn’t always easy to answer, especially as I wasn’t particularly feeling it either.

But there’s a famous quote by George Mallory on why he wished to climb Mt Everest and the response was simply “Because it is there.”

Obviously this is no Everest but the principle remains the same. I can’t help but feel that if you are somewhere and you have the means and health and all the necessary ingredients to be able to do something…you should just do it.

It might not always make sense or feel like it will be fun but ffs, are you going to look back at your life and regret taking another walk in the rain?

I doubt it.

So have the argument with the kids. Deal with the sour faces. Get a bit cold and damp and justify your decisions 1000 times an hour. You’re teaching them something and enriching your own life.

#adventure #familyadventure #familytravel #panama

I cannot tell you how many times I was asked when will I get a “proper job” when I was guiding. Despite being responsible for thousands of people, their safety and their enjoyment in some incredibly challenging environments, I’d say 85% of the people I met would ask me that question.

I think (hopefully) that we are living in different times now where people are a bit more used to not following the conventional path of school, university then a job. But 20 years ago, I was definitely the odd one out. It was like people couldn’t get their heads around doing something you actually enjoyed for work. Almost as if you had to be a bit depressed at the thought of going to work for it to count as a job.

Anyways…I ignored them…I laughed it off…and I had the best f*cking time of my life.

#adventuretravel #travel #adventureguide

I cannot tell you how many times I was asked when will I get a “proper job” when I was guiding. Despite being responsible for thousands of people, their safety and their enjoyment in some incredibly challenging environments, I’d say 85% of the people I met would ask me that question.

I think (hopefully) that we are living in different times now where people are a bit more used to not following the conventional path of school, university then a job. But 20 years ago, I was definitely the odd one out. It was like people couldn’t get their heads around doing something you actually enjoyed for work. Almost as if you had to be a bit depressed at the thought of going to work for it to count as a job.

Anyways…I ignored them…I laughed it off…and I had the best f*cking time of my life.

#adventuretravel #travel #adventureguide

Photo dump from our time in Bocas Del Toro. 📷🌴

#travel #adventure #familyadventures

Photo dump from our time in Bocas Del Toro. 📷🌴

#travel #adventure #familyadventures

We came for the geology lesson but we stayed for the P.E. 🐸

You wouldn’t think it to look at them but 6 months ago, I wouldn’t say any of them were particularly great swimmers. We never took them for swimming lessons when they were little and we have only ever really taken them on holidays in the UK until now, so that has meant freezing coastlines and not much swimming.

But I always knew that when the time came, it would just be a case of literally throwing them in the deep end.

Yes, there are times where I am a bit on edge and ready to go full Baywatch at a moment’s notice…but I think they’re doing alright!

And we discovered that the canyons are made of smooth, eroded volcanic rocks, likely andesite or dacite, formed from ancient volcanic activity, creating the distinctive mini-canyon where the Estí River flows.

So all in all, a pretty good, educational day. 😆

#adventuretravel #travel #adventure

We came for the geology lesson but we stayed for the P.E. 🐸

You wouldn’t think it to look at them but 6 months ago, I wouldn’t say any of them were particularly great swimmers. We never took them for swimming lessons when they were little and we have only ever really taken them on holidays in the UK until now, so that has meant freezing coastlines and not much swimming.

But I always knew that when the time came, it would just be a case of literally throwing them in the deep end.

Yes, there are times where I am a bit on edge and ready to go full Baywatch at a moment’s notice…but I think they’re doing alright!

And we discovered that the canyons are made of smooth, eroded volcanic rocks, likely andesite or dacite, formed from ancient volcanic activity, creating the distinctive mini-canyon where the Estí River flows.

So all in all, a pretty good, educational day. 😆

#adventuretravel #travel #adventure

So many things to be grateful for. But this is way up there. ❤��️🙏😆

#jonhamm #trending #adventuretravel #travel #panama

So many things to be grateful for. But this is way up there. ❤️🙏😆

#jonhamm #trending #adventuretravel #travel #panama

Cannot tell you the hilarity in the room when the kids realised you could just walk out with the safe. 😂

“What’s even the point of the safe if someone could just walk out with it ?!?”

Solid question from a 7yr old.

#adventuretravel #travel #costarica #panama #funny

Cannot tell you the hilarity in the room when the kids realised you could just walk out with the safe. 😂

“What’s even the point of the safe if someone could just walk out with it ?!?”

Solid question from a 7yr old.

#adventuretravel #travel #costarica #panama #funny

There is this strange behaviour as a parent where we feel it’s our job to protect our kids from hardship. Deep down we do it out of love. But is there also part of us that does it to make our own lives easier? I know I can say for sure that I do sometimes.

Our lives are rammed and the juggle and struggle is constant. Choosing to take hardship and effort out of the kids’s lives means that we have more time to do our stuff and the process is less painful.

But are we actually penalising our kids by making their lives easier than they need to be?

We could have opted for a much easier journey to Bocas Del Toro from Costa Rica but we chose a path of slightly more resistance…not because we are sadists who want to make life hard for everyone involved, but because we want the kids to have a chance to see what they’re capable of.

It was a huge effort, especially when a couple of the kids struggle with motion sickness. Harriet and I were on edge at every turn, not knowing if the people in front were about to get vomm’d on. Thankfully nobody did.

But what we have achieved in that journey is setting a benchmark for the kids on this adventure. They now know what a big travel day is. They know how hard and hot and relentless it can feel. And so when we do another, they’ve got this to recall and know they can do it.

Or at least that’s the theory. 🤷🏻

#adventuretravel #travel #costarica #panama#familyadventures

There is this strange behaviour as a parent where we feel it’s our job to protect our kids from hardship. Deep down we do it out of love. But is there also part of us that does it to make our own lives easier? I know I can say for sure that I do sometimes.

Our lives are rammed and the juggle and struggle is constant. Choosing to take hardship and effort out of the kids’s lives means that we have more time to do our stuff and the process is less painful.

But are we actually penalising our kids by making their lives easier than they need to be?

We could have opted for a much easier journey to Bocas Del Toro from Costa Rica but we chose a path of slightly more resistance…not because we are sadists who want to make life hard for everyone involved, but because we want the kids to have a chance to see what they’re capable of.

It was a huge effort, especially when a couple of the kids struggle with motion sickness. Harriet and I were on edge at every turn, not knowing if the people in front were about to get vomm’d on. Thankfully nobody did.

But what we have achieved in that journey is setting a benchmark for the kids on this adventure. They now know what a big travel day is. They know how hard and hot and relentless it can feel. And so when we do another, they’ve got this to recall and know they can do it.

Or at least that’s the theory. 🤷🏻

#adventuretravel #travel #costarica #panama#familyadventures

We brought the kids here knowing we would face a question from most people…”but what about school?”

I’m not going to embark on a bashing of our school system. It has served our country and there are challenges that I can’t imagine are easy to manage on a national level. BUT. It doesn’t serve everyone.

My honest belief if that the school system is outdated and serves only a handful of children who will continually thrive in academic situations. But what about the rest? What about the future creatives? What about the future tradespeople? What about the carers and the people who only get good at their jobs because of those soft skills learned through real world experience and understanding humanity?

My children have learned more in 3 days than the curriculum could possibly teach in an entire term. Again, this isn’t a criticism of schools or teachers. You are amazing. But what we need to learn from the BriBri is that our children can, and should, learn more than academics. Let’s teach them practical, transferable skills that will not just serve them as individual adults, but also make them useful members of their communities NOW. Not because we want them to work, but because there’s a huge amount of pride and confidence to be gained by being useful and helpful.

So rather than get to 18 with an education but no experience (because we know an employer won’t take you without both), let’s give them both?

Would love your views…

#travel #familyadventure #bribri #homeschool #adventure

We brought the kids here knowing we would face a question from most people…”but what about school?”

I’m not going to embark on a bashing of our school system. It has served our country and there are challenges that I can’t imagine are easy to manage on a national level. BUT. It doesn’t serve everyone.

My honest belief if that the school system is outdated and serves only a handful of children who will continually thrive in academic situations. But what about the rest? What about the future creatives? What about the future tradespeople? What about the carers and the people who only get good at their jobs because of those soft skills learned through real world experience and understanding humanity?

My children have learned more in 3 days than the curriculum could possibly teach in an entire term. Again, this isn’t a criticism of schools or teachers. You are amazing. But what we need to learn from the BriBri is that our children can, and should, learn more than academics. Let’s teach them practical, transferable skills that will not just serve them as individual adults, but also make them useful members of their communities NOW. Not because we want them to work, but because there’s a huge amount of pride and confidence to be gained by being useful and helpful.

So rather than get to 18 with an education but no experience (because we know an employer won’t take you without both), let’s give them both?

Would love your views…

#travel #familyadventure #bribri #homeschool #adventure

It’s somewhat impossible to sum up our time with the BriBri people in a single caption.

All that needs to be said for now is how privileged I feel to have been able to show my children that way of life. I have no doubt that the men, women and children of the BriBri community in Yorkin will forever continue to shape the thoughts of my kids for the better.

If only more people back home were willing to try and understand other cultures and perhaps even be willing to be influenced by some of it…I can’t help but think we’d solve a huge number of our issues. ❤️

#adventuretravel #costarica #familyadventures #bribri

It’s somewhat impossible to sum up our time with the BriBri people in a single caption.

All that needs to be said for now is how privileged I feel to have been able to show my children that way of life. I have no doubt that the men, women and children of the BriBri community in Yorkin will forever continue to shape the thoughts of my kids for the better.

If only more people back home were willing to try and understand other cultures and perhaps even be willing to be influenced by some of it…I can’t help but think we’d solve a huge number of our issues. ❤️

#adventuretravel #costarica #familyadventures #bribri

This definitely wasn’t a small effort. Getting a young family of 5 deep into the Costa Rican / Panamanian jungle took quite a bit of energy.

But it was also one of those journeys that just make you feel so small and the world so big. 🌎 🌴 🌳

#adventuretravel #costarica #familyadventures #travel #centralamerica

This definitely wasn’t a small effort. Getting a young family of 5 deep into the Costa Rican / Panamanian jungle took quite a bit of energy.

But it was also one of those journeys that just make you feel so small and the world so big. 🌎 🌴 🌳

#adventuretravel #costarica #familyadventures #travel #centralamerica

Whilst @harrietbarcellacoaching nursed our youngest back to health, I thought it would be a good opportunity to embrace the rain and go find some fun to be had in the jungle. 🌳 🥥 💦

We could have hung out at the camp and swung in hammocks and had hot chocolates…but we chose the full send! What a day!

🌱🌴💦

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #costarica #waterfall

Whilst @harrietbarcellacoaching nursed our youngest back to health, I thought it would be a good opportunity to embrace the rain and go find some fun to be had in the jungle. 🌳 🥥 💦

We could have hung out at the camp and swung in hammocks and had hot chocolates…but we chose the full send! What a day!

🌱🌴💦

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #costarica #waterfall

Children are an investment. The more you put in at the beginning…the less you can do in the long-run. 😂😂

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #costarica #family

Children are an investment. The more you put in at the beginning…the less you can do in the long-run. 😂😂

#adventuretravel #familyadventures #costarica #family

I figured this might help give some context to all the stuff I’m now posting. 🤷🏻 📷 ⛰️

What a wild little ride it has been. ⚡️

#adventure #travel #familyadventures #explorer

I figured this might help give some context to all the stuff I’m now posting. 🤷🏻 📷 ⛰️

What a wild little ride it has been. ⚡️

#adventure #travel #familyadventures #explorer

There are two things that are important to me when it came to planning this trip;

1. No hiring cars. Lets take busses, shared collectivos or a free ride from strangers. I want the kids to understand what it is to actually travel, not to be chauffeured about by their parents. It’s absolutely going to mean a huge amount more effort for Harriet and I but the social interactions will be off the charts, not to mention the inevitable resilience that’s going to be developed from hot, long journeys on a chicken bus. 🚌 🐔

2. If we can’t carry it on our backs, it’s not coming. Harriet and I have a big rucksack and the kids have their own little bags. Again, this is a lesson in understanding just how ridiculous our lives at home are. We’ve got a house full of stuff and yet I know we’ll survive happily over the next few months with just what’s in those bags. 🎒 🧭

I also bought the kids a copy of @lonelyplanet Costa Rica to help them feel a bit more involved in the planning when we get there. Cannot tell you the excitement when I gave it to them this morning. 🌍 📖

#adventuretravel #costarica #familyadventures #centralamerica

There are two things that are important to me when it came to planning this trip;

1. No hiring cars. Lets take busses, shared collectivos or a free ride from strangers. I want the kids to understand what it is to actually travel, not to be chauffeured about by their parents. It’s absolutely going to mean a huge amount more effort for Harriet and I but the social interactions will be off the charts, not to mention the inevitable resilience that’s going to be developed from hot, long journeys on a chicken bus. 🚌 🐔

2. If we can’t carry it on our backs, it’s not coming. Harriet and I have a big rucksack and the kids have their own little bags. Again, this is a lesson in understanding just how ridiculous our lives at home are. We’ve got a house full of stuff and yet I know we’ll survive happily over the next few months with just what’s in those bags. 🎒 🧭

I also bought the kids a copy of @lonelyplanet Costa Rica to help them feel a bit more involved in the planning when we get there. Cannot tell you the excitement when I gave it to them this morning. 🌍 📖

#adventuretravel #costarica #familyadventures #centralamerica

My first ever voiceover video. Cringing my tits off. 😆

On Thursday morning we fly to Costa Rica. A few months later, we’ll fly home from El Salvador. The time in between, well, that’s anyone’s guess. 🏝️ 🏔️ ☀️ 🐟

It’s a 3 month, unscripted, unplanned, off-the-cuff adventure to (hopefully) teach our children a little about the world, its people, nature and maybe a lesson or two in resilience. 💪🏽 😊 🔥

There’s so much to say right now that I don’t know where to start. Nor do I have time as I’m up to my eyes in life admin. But I am very excited. It’s been (maybe) 14 years since I did a proper backpacking trip and the first time ever doing it with 3 small children in hot pursuit.

I’m also very excited to get to hang out with @harrietbarcellacoaching and do some of the stuff we did before life got a bit more serious. ❤️

All in all, I am feeling tremendously blessed to have this opportunity and I have a ton of stuff to share with you about life and the future and just so many really damn cool things that are coming in 2026.

Also I’d love to know if that video is as cringe as it feels ⬇️ 😂

#adventuretravel #familytravel #centralamerica #costarica #travel #backpacking

My first ever voiceover video. Cringing my tits off. 😆

On Thursday morning we fly to Costa Rica. A few months later, we’ll fly home from El Salvador. The time in between, well, that’s anyone’s guess. 🏝️ 🏔️ ☀️ 🐟

It’s a 3 month, unscripted, unplanned, off-the-cuff adventure to (hopefully) teach our children a little about the world, its people, nature and maybe a lesson or two in resilience. 💪🏽 😊 🔥

There’s so much to say right now that I don’t know where to start. Nor do I have time as I’m up to my eyes in life admin. But I am very excited. It’s been (maybe) 14 years since I did a proper backpacking trip and the first time ever doing it with 3 small children in hot pursuit.

I’m also very excited to get to hang out with @harrietbarcellacoaching and do some of the stuff we did before life got a bit more serious. ❤️

All in all, I am feeling tremendously blessed to have this opportunity and I have a ton of stuff to share with you about life and the future and just so many really damn cool things that are coming in 2026.

Also I’d love to know if that video is as cringe as it feels ⬇️ 😂

#adventuretravel #familytravel #centralamerica #costarica #travel #backpacking

What a week. 🐪 ☀️ 📷

Despite being perhaps my 23rd(?) visit to the Sahara desert, I’ll never take for granted just how lucky I am to do these things for work. I am a tiny cog in the huge community that is CoppaTrek! with Gi and I feel so privileged to get to walk along side everyone.

Trekkers often praise me for my ability to run around from front to back, up and down and side to side in an attempt to get a shot. I’d run the world for you all. ❤️❤️

You’re all amazing. Brave. Strong. Vulnerable. Funny. Silly. Emotional. Supportive. Kind. Extraordinary people. And as I (tried to) say the other night, in a room full of extraordinary people, it’s not always easy to see how extraordinary you are. But you are. Take it home. Hold on to it and be proud of it.

Thank you as always for having me @coppafeel and @mrsgifletcher

#adventuretravel #breastcancer #sahara #fundraising

What a week. 🐪 ☀️ 📷

Despite being perhaps my 23rd(?) visit to the Sahara desert, I’ll never take for granted just how lucky I am to do these things for work. I am a tiny cog in the huge community that is CoppaTrek! with Gi and I feel so privileged to get to walk along side everyone.

Trekkers often praise me for my ability to run around from front to back, up and down and side to side in an attempt to get a shot. I’d run the world for you all. ❤️❤️

You’re all amazing. Brave. Strong. Vulnerable. Funny. Silly. Emotional. Supportive. Kind. Extraordinary people. And as I (tried to) say the other night, in a room full of extraordinary people, it’s not always easy to see how extraordinary you are. But you are. Take it home. Hold on to it and be proud of it.

Thank you as always for having me @coppafeel and @mrsgifletcher

#adventuretravel #breastcancer #sahara #fundraising

This is what happens when 750+ incredible people get together to support an amazing cause. 🥾 🥾 ⛰️

CoppaFeel! and all you amazing trekkers will never stop blowing my mind. ❤️💛🩷

@mrsgifletcher
@coppafeel
@pollywest11
@lucemorrell
@erinmwj
@candicebrown
@itskellycrump
@charity.challenge

#coppatrek #coppatrekwithgi #coppafeel #trekking #fundraising #challenge

This is what happens when 750+ incredible people get together to support an amazing cause. 🥾 🥾 ⛰️

CoppaFeel! and all you amazing trekkers will never stop blowing my mind. ❤️💛🩷

@mrsgifletcher
@coppafeel
@pollywest11
@lucemorrell
@erinmwj
@candicebrown
@itskellycrump
@charity.challenge

#coppatrek #coppatrekwithgi #coppafeel #trekking #fundraising #challenge

By far the greatest thing about this adventure has been the gift of time. For the last week it has just been us; we have slept in the same rooms, eaten the same meals, walked every step, cycled every meter and even pee’d in the same bushes. 🌳 🌳

I don’t think there has been a day since he was born where I haven’t had a distraction or a commitment that has taken my mind off him for a period. Yet this week I’ve not had a moment where he hasn’t been my entire world. 🌍

Getting to ride and walk by his side every day, for the entire day, has meant that I’ve not just heard him speak, I’ve been able to fully listen to every word. It’s quite something. 🚲 🥾

Work and life and my other children are obviously going to take some of my time back when we get home, but this adventure has been a huge kick up the backside about the value of being properly present, not just for them, but for me. 🕰️

#cycletouring #adventuretravel #tanzania #áfrica #meru #traveler #travelling

By far the greatest thing about this adventure has been the gift of time. For the last week it has just been us; we have slept in the same rooms, eaten the same meals, walked every step, cycled every meter and even pee’d in the same bushes. 🌳 🌳

I don’t think there has been a day since he was born where I haven’t had a distraction or a commitment that has taken my mind off him for a period. Yet this week I’ve not had a moment where he hasn’t been my entire world. 🌍

Getting to ride and walk by his side every day, for the entire day, has meant that I’ve not just heard him speak, I’ve been able to fully listen to every word. It’s quite something. 🚲 🥾

Work and life and my other children are obviously going to take some of my time back when we get home, but this adventure has been a huge kick up the backside about the value of being properly present, not just for them, but for me. 🕰️

#cycletouring #adventuretravel #tanzania #áfrica #meru #traveler #travelling

The little grab of his head is just so sweet. 🥹

Riding down this dirt track and stumbling upon a few giraffe just going about their business is definitely a memory that will stay with Raffi (and me) forever. 🦒 🦒 🦒

Probably the best decision I made when it came to planning this trip was to incorporate some cycle-touring. It meant that we weren’t confined to the tourist routes and could just use the trails used by locals and go at our own pace. For me, it’s the greatest way to see the world and this is what I hoped Raffi would learn from the experience. For as long as you have your physical health and a couple of wheels, nowhere is out of your reach.

It does throw out a lot of logistical challenges, particularly when you have a child in tow and a limited amount of time. I didn’t want to have to travel with bikes as we were only riding for a couple of days and I didn’t want to risk being stranded in the middle of nowhere without water with a 10yr old which is why I chose to bring in the support of the guys I used to work with out here in Tanzania as a support crew.

It meant we could just ride and be together and properly enjoy Tanzania with none of the stress…and have experiences like bumping into a few giraffe with not another human for dozens of kilometres. 🚲 🚲 ☀️

#tanzania #meru #áfrica #adventuretravel #cycling #cycletouring #giraffe

The little grab of his head is just so sweet. 🥹

Riding down this dirt track and stumbling upon a few giraffe just going about their business is definitely a memory that will stay with Raffi (and me) forever. 🦒 🦒 🦒

Probably the best decision I made when it came to planning this trip was to incorporate some cycle-touring. It meant that we weren’t confined to the tourist routes and could just use the trails used by locals and go at our own pace. For me, it’s the greatest way to see the world and this is what I hoped Raffi would learn from the experience. For as long as you have your physical health and a couple of wheels, nowhere is out of your reach.

It does throw out a lot of logistical challenges, particularly when you have a child in tow and a limited amount of time. I didn’t want to have to travel with bikes as we were only riding for a couple of days and I didn’t want to risk being stranded in the middle of nowhere without water with a 10yr old which is why I chose to bring in the support of the guys I used to work with out here in Tanzania as a support crew.

It meant we could just ride and be together and properly enjoy Tanzania with none of the stress…and have experiences like bumping into a few giraffe with not another human for dozens of kilometres. 🚲 🚲 ☀️

#tanzania #meru #áfrica #adventuretravel #cycling #cycletouring #giraffe

An extra 4 mins in bed or freeze your (o)(o) off before the day starts? 🥶�😎

#cold #coldwater #dailydips #icebath

An extra 4 mins in bed or freeze your (o)(o) off before the day starts? 🥶😎

#cold #coldwater #dailydips #icebath

This will forever be one of my favourite memories from these trips I do with @coppafeelpeople (o)(o)

@mattjwillis showing us that he’s just as good at coaching as he is at rocking. 🤟🏽🎸

Dozens of incredible women (and one young lad) stepping out of their comfort zones and telling cancer to “Go F#ck Itself”.
🖕🏼

Dozens more shouting, cheering and chanting in support. ❤️

There really is nothing better.

#icebaths #icebath #coldwater #coldwaterswimminguk #coldwaterswimming #coldwatertherapy #icebathuk #freezing #cold #coppafeel #coppatrek2023

@mrsgifletcher @candicebrown @emmawillisofficial @frankiebridge @ellavaday @sanamiee

This will forever be one of my favourite memories from these trips I do with @coppafeelpeople (o)(o)

@mattjwillis showing us that he’s just as good at coaching as he is at rocking. 🤟🏽🎸

Dozens of incredible women (and one young lad) stepping out of their comfort zones and telling cancer to “Go F#ck Itself”.
🖕🏼

Dozens more shouting, cheering and chanting in support. ❤️

There really is nothing better.

#icebaths #icebath #coldwater #coldwaterswimminguk #coldwaterswimming #coldwatertherapy #icebathuk #freezing #cold #coppafeel #coppatrek2023

@mrsgifletcher @candicebrown @emmawillisofficial @frankiebridge @ellavaday @sanamiee

This will never stop being one of the best bits of my day. 🧊 🧊 🧊 🥶 #icebaths #coldwater

This will never stop being one of the best bits of my day. 🧊 🧊 🧊 🥶 #icebaths #coldwater

🎄 Merrrrrryyyyyy Chrriiissstmmmasssss 🎄

- Christmas Day dip in the gloriously beautiful Fairy Pools on Skye.

No idea of the temperature. No idea how long we stayed in. Was just the most insanely beautiful and enjoyable moment.

#neverstopexploring #coldwater #icebath

🎄 Merrrrrryyyyyy Chrriiissstmmmasssss 🎄

- Christmas Day dip in the gloriously beautiful Fairy Pools on Skye.

No idea of the temperature. No idea how long we stayed in. Was just the most insanely beautiful and enjoyable moment.

#neverstopexploring #coldwater #icebath

I first went to the Sahara desert when I was about 22yrs old (approx 15 years ago now). If someone had told me then that I’d be back one day to take photos of dozens of topless women, I’m not sure I would’ve believed them. I’m also not sure this is what I would’ve pictured.

I’ll be honest, I was nervous taking these photos. Not for the obvious reason - I think I am old enough now not to be shocked by some boobs. It was more the sense of responsibility I felt to capture these women in a way that did them, and their stories, justice.

I am proud. Perhaps not the most impressive photos from a technical perspective but I’m super proud to have been let into that inner circle and for these women to feel comfortable enough around me to bare their chests, their scars and their souls.

Rockstars. Each and every one of you. Brave. Strong. Fearless. And yet totally sensitive, emotional and vulnerable. You’re everything that we should all aspire to be.

Thank you for a great week. 💙💚💛🧡❤️

I first went to the Sahara desert when I was about 22yrs old (approx 15 years ago now). If someone had told me then that I’d be back one day to take photos of dozens of topless women, I’m not sure I would’ve believed them. I’m also not sure this is what I would’ve pictured.

I’ll be honest, I was nervous taking these photos. Not for the obvious reason - I think I am old enough now not to be shocked by some boobs. It was more the sense of responsibility I felt to capture these women in a way that did them, and their stories, justice.

I am proud. Perhaps not the most impressive photos from a technical perspective but I’m super proud to have been let into that inner circle and for these women to feel comfortable enough around me to bare their chests, their scars and their souls.

Rockstars. Each and every one of you. Brave. Strong. Fearless. And yet totally sensitive, emotional and vulnerable. You’re everything that we should all aspire to be.

Thank you for a great week. 💙💚💛🧡❤️

I’ll never take for granted how fortunate I am to be able to call this work. ♥️

I feel lucky not because of where I’ve been but because I get the chance to spend time with people like this. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been to Morocco and the Sahara Desert but I’ll never forget the conversations I have had whilst there.

This week my eyes have been opened once again to how incredibly beautiful people can be, and the strength and determination that some people can find in times of extreme hardship continues to blow my mind.

I am genuinely grateful to every single one of you for the kindness and love that was put my way this week. Don’t ever forget how special you all are.

Huge well done to you all and @coppafeelpeople , @mrsgifletcher and @charity.challenge - well done for making this magic happen.

(I can’t remember everyone’s handles so please tag the group.)

I’ll never take for granted how fortunate I am to be able to call this work. ♥️

I feel lucky not because of where I’ve been but because I get the chance to spend time with people like this. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been to Morocco and the Sahara Desert but I’ll never forget the conversations I have had whilst there.

This week my eyes have been opened once again to how incredibly beautiful people can be, and the strength and determination that some people can find in times of extreme hardship continues to blow my mind.

I am genuinely grateful to every single one of you for the kindness and love that was put my way this week. Don’t ever forget how special you all are.

Huge well done to you all and @coppafeelpeople , @mrsgifletcher and @charity.challenge - well done for making this magic happen.

(I can’t remember everyone’s handles so please tag the group.)

Summer is a state of mind. 🥶

Summer is a state of mind. 🥶

It was a wee bit nippy today. A fresh 3.5C in the water and a cool 2C outside.

It was however the first blue sky in what has felt like an eternity so there was no way I was going to pass it up.

Highlight was definitely a couple of swans muscling another swan out of their territory. Kept me entertained for a few minutes and my mind off of the agonising pain in my fingers.

Distraction, I find, is such a valuable tool for managing discomfort; find another focus for your mind and allow yourself to drift out of immediate consciousness.

When @harrietbarcellacoaching was pregnant with our first child, we attended quite a few hypnobirthing classes. I fell asleep in all the classes (because it was relaxing, not because I was bored) but I guess something stuck in my mind as the process of breathing and focussing definitely helps managing the pain in the river.

What’s everyone else’s tekkers for cold swimming?

It was a wee bit nippy today. A fresh 3.5C in the water and a cool 2C outside.

It was however the first blue sky in what has felt like an eternity so there was no way I was going to pass it up.

Highlight was definitely a couple of swans muscling another swan out of their territory. Kept me entertained for a few minutes and my mind off of the agonising pain in my fingers.

Distraction, I find, is such a valuable tool for managing discomfort; find another focus for your mind and allow yourself to drift out of immediate consciousness.

When @harrietbarcellacoaching was pregnant with our first child, we attended quite a few hypnobirthing classes. I fell asleep in all the classes (because it was relaxing, not because I was bored) but I guess something stuck in my mind as the process of breathing and focussing definitely helps managing the pain in the river.

What’s everyone else’s tekkers for cold swimming?

Swipe to see one of the worst emails I’ve ever received. 💩🤢

Last night, after getting home from swimming in the river, a friend forwarded me that email.

I was sitting in my kitchen, still un-showered following the dip in the water.

At first I was relatively chill but as time has gone on, I’ve become steadily more angry about this situation.

I’ve been in the river every day since the 26th. On the morning of the 27th I made a throwaway comment to one of my fellow swimmers about the fairly unpleasant smell coming off the water that morning. I didn’t think too much about it. It is the Thames.

Obviously after reading that email the penny dropped. For the last few days myself and my friends have essentially been floating around in tons of untreated human waste, just moments away from our homes.

There are so many things to discuss here, going right back to how this absolutely ridiculous practice was approved by our government. But for now I want to know why on Earth when a company pumps raw sewage into a river that is used by thousands of people every day, the only way you know about it is randomly being forwarded an email by a friend?

Obviously a keen minority will have subscribed to their relevant water management company’s newsletter but the information really isn’t that easy to find. Surely if this is in our water, there should be massive warning signs up telling people to avoid the water. Surely it is the responsibility of the companies / government to keep people informed of anything that could damage their health - not the responsibility of the individual to go searching every water/chemical/treatment website for updates.

I am honestly disgusted by the whole thing. Not that I’ve been swimming in shit - that really doesn’t bother me - I’ve done far worse in my life. What I am disgusted about is how this raw sewage dumping has suddenly become our problem to manage and that our health and the health of our children, pets and wildlife is playing second fiddle to profit margins.

I’m aware I’m not 100% clued up on all of this - I have a lot to learn and welcome input. Let’s sort this shit out.

@officialthameswater - what are you saying?

Swipe to see one of the worst emails I’ve ever received. 💩🤢

Last night, after getting home from swimming in the river, a friend forwarded me that email.

I was sitting in my kitchen, still un-showered following the dip in the water.

At first I was relatively chill but as time has gone on, I’ve become steadily more angry about this situation.

I’ve been in the river every day since the 26th. On the morning of the 27th I made a throwaway comment to one of my fellow swimmers about the fairly unpleasant smell coming off the water that morning. I didn’t think too much about it. It is the Thames.

Obviously after reading that email the penny dropped. For the last few days myself and my friends have essentially been floating around in tons of untreated human waste, just moments away from our homes.

There are so many things to discuss here, going right back to how this absolutely ridiculous practice was approved by our government. But for now I want to know why on Earth when a company pumps raw sewage into a river that is used by thousands of people every day, the only way you know about it is randomly being forwarded an email by a friend?

Obviously a keen minority will have subscribed to their relevant water management company’s newsletter but the information really isn’t that easy to find. Surely if this is in our water, there should be massive warning signs up telling people to avoid the water. Surely it is the responsibility of the companies / government to keep people informed of anything that could damage their health - not the responsibility of the individual to go searching every water/chemical/treatment website for updates.

I am honestly disgusted by the whole thing. Not that I’ve been swimming in shit - that really doesn’t bother me - I’ve done far worse in my life. What I am disgusted about is how this raw sewage dumping has suddenly become our problem to manage and that our health and the health of our children, pets and wildlife is playing second fiddle to profit margins.

I’m aware I’m not 100% clued up on all of this - I have a lot to learn and welcome input. Let’s sort this shit out.

@officialthameswater - what are you saying?

It was a beach kind of day. 🥶 🏝

It was a beach kind of day. 🥶 🏝

Is it worth setting an alarm to get up an hour earlier? To leave the warmth of your bed just to ride your bike through town with the temperature sitting around 4C before stripping off and getting into an icy river?

The short answer is yes. Yes it is worth it. It’s not always obvious why and often you’re questioning the decision right until until the moment you submerge yourself but as soon as that water is above your chest, you know it was the best decision you’ll make all day.

Today I did 10.5 minutes at around 7C water temp which felt good. The dark definitely adds some excitement as movements in the water, some which feel very close, are impossible to predict or spot. I think I’m fairly relaxed about it because I know it’s the Thames and the most dangerous thing I’m likely to encounter is a 💩 (cheers government).

However, put me in front of the Amazon river and I might not feel the same way.

Is it worth setting an alarm to get up an hour earlier? To leave the warmth of your bed just to ride your bike through town with the temperature sitting around 4C before stripping off and getting into an icy river?

The short answer is yes. Yes it is worth it. It’s not always obvious why and often you’re questioning the decision right until until the moment you submerge yourself but as soon as that water is above your chest, you know it was the best decision you’ll make all day.

Today I did 10.5 minutes at around 7C water temp which felt good. The dark definitely adds some excitement as movements in the water, some which feel very close, are impossible to predict or spot. I think I’m fairly relaxed about it because I know it’s the Thames and the most dangerous thing I’m likely to encounter is a 💩 (cheers government).

However, put me in front of the Amazon river and I might not feel the same way.

If you find yourself with a big biscuit tin this Christmas, once you’ve devoured the contents, give it a new life by using it as a mini hot tub for your feet post cold dip.

#coldwaterhacks

If you find yourself with a big biscuit tin this Christmas, once you’ve devoured the contents, give it a new life by using it as a mini hot tub for your feet post cold dip.

#coldwaterhacks

That is NOT what it looks like. 😳

What I’m loving about the cold water again…

1. Instant euphoria
2. A day long buzz
3. That weird pleasure / pain thing

But most of all it’s the easiest, most accessible and most instant sense of adventure that I’ve found. I love that I can open my eyes in the morning, be in the river within 20mins and be home and showered again within the hour.

Finding a quick adventure fix has become somewhat essential with general life being consumed with kids and work. I honestly don’t think there is a better way to get it. 🥶

That is NOT what it looks like. 😳

What I’m loving about the cold water again…

1. Instant euphoria
2. A day long buzz
3. That weird pleasure / pain thing

But most of all it’s the easiest, most accessible and most instant sense of adventure that I’ve found. I love that I can open my eyes in the morning, be in the river within 20mins and be home and showered again within the hour.

Finding a quick adventure fix has become somewhat essential with general life being consumed with kids and work. I honestly don’t think there is a better way to get it. 🥶

This was my first cold dip in a while and boy did it hurt! 🥶

The first 60s were spent trapped in that internal dialogue of ‘I’m not sure I can do 5 mins of this’ . I looked at my fellow cold dippers and we all had a moment of questioning ourselves. It was clear we were out of practice.

But once breathing was under control, so too were the demons and it started to become the euphoric I remember so fondly.

I forgot how much I got from this back in January. Those daily dips have transformed 2021 for me and have led to so many things and I’ve been toying with an idea for the new year. So before I reveal anything I have a question…

I’m looking for a few people in North Wales, the Lake District and the Cairngorms who might be up for getting cold with me in Jan.

Tag anyone you think might be interested in joining ⬇️

This was my first cold dip in a while and boy did it hurt! 🥶

The first 60s were spent trapped in that internal dialogue of ‘I’m not sure I can do 5 mins of this’ . I looked at my fellow cold dippers and we all had a moment of questioning ourselves. It was clear we were out of practice.

But once breathing was under control, so too were the demons and it started to become the euphoric I remember so fondly.

I forgot how much I got from this back in January. Those daily dips have transformed 2021 for me and have led to so many things and I’ve been toying with an idea for the new year. So before I reveal anything I have a question…

I’m looking for a few people in North Wales, the Lake District and the Cairngorms who might be up for getting cold with me in Jan.

Tag anyone you think might be interested in joining ⬇️

Not going to lie. Today has been a pretty epic day.

#jumpfirstthinksecond 🏝

Not going to lie. Today has been a pretty epic day.

#jumpfirstthinksecond 🏝

See family. ✅
Visit the hills. ✅
Teach the kids the value of getting smashed by wind and rain. ✅

📍Conic Hill | Balmaha | Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Can’t tell you how many times I’ve visited this part of Scotland but this was my first time up Conic Hill. It was such a fun little climb (despite the thorough soaking). If you only have a couple of hours or have little kids with you, it’s an absolute winner. Access is super easy, there’s a car park and a really nice restaurant at the bottom and the views over Loch Lomond are outstanding.

But the best thing had to be getting blown around by the wind, pelted by the rain and watching the kids happily skip up the hill covered in mud. Mannnnn I love the outdoors.

See family. ✅
Visit the hills. ✅
Teach the kids the value of getting smashed by wind and rain. ✅

📍Conic Hill | Balmaha | Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Can’t tell you how many times I’ve visited this part of Scotland but this was my first time up Conic Hill. It was such a fun little climb (despite the thorough soaking). If you only have a couple of hours or have little kids with you, it’s an absolute winner. Access is super easy, there’s a car park and a really nice restaurant at the bottom and the views over Loch Lomond are outstanding.

But the best thing had to be getting blown around by the wind, pelted by the rain and watching the kids happily skip up the hill covered in mud. Mannnnn I love the outdoors.

Hi everyone! I have had an impromptu sabbatical from social media the last few weeks.

Since returning from #TheLongestAscent life has been a bit flat out between recovering from the ankle injury, moving house, trying to keep the business moving forwards and getting kids back to school. There really hasn’t been time for much else!

Anyways - super stoked to get my adventure head back on and these dark mornings are making me crave those fresh water dips like back in January. Who is still out doing the cold water swims at the moment? I think it might be time to embrace the cold again.

❄️❄️❄️💦

Hi everyone! I have had an impromptu sabbatical from social media the last few weeks.

Since returning from #TheLongestAscent life has been a bit flat out between recovering from the ankle injury, moving house, trying to keep the business moving forwards and getting kids back to school. There really hasn’t been time for much else!

Anyways - super stoked to get my adventure head back on and these dark mornings are making me crave those fresh water dips like back in January. Who is still out doing the cold water swims at the moment? I think it might be time to embrace the cold again.

❄️❄️❄️💦

🤯 I’m in the middle of a big clear out and I just found this epic map! This is how I found my way around SE Asia on a bike back in 2007, aged 22. No iPhones. No GPS device. No mobile data.

It’s utterly mind blowing to think how different this adventure was to my most recent Longest Ascent.

On my way to Wales I literally had turn by turn navigation (if I wanted it), the ability to measure distance, timings, alternative routes, make plans B, C and D in real-time depending on what challenges I faced. I could find water refill places. I could check the weather. If I wanted, I could’ve ordered food to my tent.

In Asia, this was literally all I had. A 1:1,500,000 (yes, million) scale map of the whole of Southeast Asia! I didn’t have a plan A let alone any backups. The reason the map is still in such good condition is because it lived in my pannier bag for the whole 5 months. It was useless. I quickly realised that I was never going to find anything using it so I relied on gut instinct, mistakes and whatever charm I could muster in languages I had no knowledge of.

What it makes me think is with all the technology we have access to nowadays, can you still have genuine, authentic adventures or has technology made everything too easy? 🤔

🤯 I’m in the middle of a big clear out and I just found this epic map! This is how I found my way around SE Asia on a bike back in 2007, aged 22. No iPhones. No GPS device. No mobile data.

It’s utterly mind blowing to think how different this adventure was to my most recent Longest Ascent.

On my way to Wales I literally had turn by turn navigation (if I wanted it), the ability to measure distance, timings, alternative routes, make plans B, C and D in real-time depending on what challenges I faced. I could find water refill places. I could check the weather. If I wanted, I could’ve ordered food to my tent.

In Asia, this was literally all I had. A 1:1,500,000 (yes, million) scale map of the whole of Southeast Asia! I didn’t have a plan A let alone any backups. The reason the map is still in such good condition is because it lived in my pannier bag for the whole 5 months. It was useless. I quickly realised that I was never going to find anything using it so I relied on gut instinct, mistakes and whatever charm I could muster in languages I had no knowledge of.

What it makes me think is with all the technology we have access to nowadays, can you still have genuine, authentic adventures or has technology made everything too easy? 🤔

“The first steps of the day were the worst. For about an hour I couldn't put any weight on my heels. I basically tip-toed my way across the country. What I found was that after about an hour of constantly hurting with every step, the pain stopped being an issue. Yes, it was sore. Yes I was aware of it. But I didn't allow it to be a problem. It just became part of the experience of moving and once I accepted that, things got better.”

I’ve written a short blog (5min read) of my experience last week on #thelongestascent . If you’d like to read it, the link is in my bio. And, as always, would love your feedback.

X

“The first steps of the day were the worst. For about an hour I couldn't put any weight on my heels. I basically tip-toed my way across the country. What I found was that after about an hour of constantly hurting with every step, the pain stopped being an issue. Yes, it was sore. Yes I was aware of it. But I didn't allow it to be a problem. It just became part of the experience of moving and once I accepted that, things got better.”

I’ve written a short blog (5min read) of my experience last week on #thelongestascent . If you’d like to read it, the link is in my bio. And, as always, would love your feedback.

X

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