Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
At every stage of our journey we were overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness of
the people that we met. Complete strangers went out of their way to offer us food, accom-
modation, clothes, bikes, directions, beer or conversation. Britain is a melting pot of cul-
tures, races and personalities, and this eclectic mix of characters should be embraced and
celebrated.
And it's not just the people; Great Britain is stunningly beautiful, too. We expected
Cornwalltobepretty,andweknewtheScottishHighlandswouldbespectacular,butitwas
the bits in-between that surprised us. There was not an inch of the 1000 miles that didn't
have an appeal. Even Runcorn had a certain charm. Nowadays, with cheap flights and the
channel tunnel, it is so easy to disappear to some faraway land, rather than explore all of
the beauty right on your doorstep.
This journey was never about money. I don't want to preach to you about consumerism
or society's obsession with money - I'm sure you have got your own opinions on that.
Travelling without money was simply a way to put us at the mercy of those around us, and
allow us the opportunity to meet people, see places, and have experiences that we would
not otherwise have had.
It did, however, teach us about the endless opportunities that are open to us, even
without money. It doesn't cost anything to get out and explore your local town. It doesn't
costanythingtocycleorwalkthroughthebeautifulBritishcountryside.Itdoesn'tcostany-
thing to stop and talk to people. It doesn't cost anything to swim in the sea or a lake, or
to visit many of Britain's most impressive sights. It doesn't cost anything to ask for help.
It doesn't cost anything to make new friends, and it doesn't cost anything to smile and
have fun. It took this experience to help me realise that Great Britain is undoubtedly a Free
Country.
It is amazing what adventures you can have when you step outside your front door. Get
out there. Take a look for yourself. You won't be disappointed, I promise.
It is claimed that cycling can lead to impotence. This thought had been niggling away
in my mind throughout the three weeks that I spent sat on The Falcon, with a saddle
madefromthehardest,mostball-destroyingmaterialknowntoman.However,exactlynine
monthsaftergettinghome,mywifegavebirthtoourbabydaughter,and,withthat,awhole
new adventure began.