Exploring the world at a comfortable pace — with plenty of stops for photos, snacks, and the occasional wrong turn
Musings from a muddy hill in Thailand
So there I was, on a muddy hill in the jungles of Northern Thailand. Twenty-something backpackers were darting past me left and right while I stood there, hands on knees, catching my breath and pretending to admire the view. And wondering, “Wait… why did no one mention this part?” Now before you get the wrong idea, I’m not completely unfit — I swim, I hike, and I haven’t been airlifted off a mountain yet — but I’m 57, and there are moments that make me feel every one of those years.
When I was planning our next trip, to Indonesia, and went searching for honest “Can I really do that?” stories from travellers my age, I found… very little really. Most answers that came back appeared to be from twenty-something backpackers who think a light activity is scaling a volcano before breakfast. So I decided to start writing these stories myself.
Welcome to my travel blog—where I try things, occasionally grumble, always laugh, and share the real adventures of exploring the world with a few extra birthdays under my belt.
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Recent posts
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Staying upright in Iceland: winter safety tips for 55+ travellers.
Going to Iceland soon and afraid the slippery paths will make you end up somewhere you don’t want to be, like in a mud pot or at the A&E department: read about my experiences!
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How to choose an Iceland tour at 55+
How to choose an iceland tour at 55+ that truly suits you. Practical tips on pace, comfort, and fitness, with a free downloadable spreadsheet.
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How fit do you need to be to travel around Iceland?
Want to go to Iceland, but not sure if you’ll be able to handle the cold and the conditions? Find out about how physically challenging it is in this post.
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What to Pack for Iceland in Winter: Complete Iceland Packing List for 55+ Travellers
Travelling to Iceland in winter and not sure what to bring? We’ve got you covered!
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Planning a winter trip to Iceland at 55+
Planning a short winter trip to Iceland and don’t know where to start? This post points out the most important things to consider before you book anything.
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Can I still be trusted with a wok? A Chiang Mai cooking class at 55+
A Thai cooking class in Chiant Mai, with a market visit, lots of cutting and stirring and a feast at the end.
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An ethical elephant experience in Thailand
A visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand: no tricks, no rides, no baths, just elephants.
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Thailand in two weeks: an itinerary suitable for over-55 travellers
A two-week itinerary to Thailand: no driving required and a nice mix of culture, nature, great food and beach relaxation.
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Driving the Swartberg Pass into the Karoo at 55+
Want to drive the Swartberg Pass, a beautiful gravel pass between Little and Great Karoo in South Africa – but afraid it will be too difficult or dangerous? Find out here what it was like. Includes Kangoo caves visit.
