The novice explorer leaving Heathrow airport

This was probably the strangest point in my whole life, because as soon as I walked through the departure gate at Heathrow, I knew that this was the beginning of a long journey. I really had no idea how things would work out, but at the same time I felt excited, the trip that I had planned for so long was now underway...

In some ways, it was probably more difficult for my family than me as I always knew where I was, whereas the majority of the time they had little idea of exactly where I was, whether it be in a hammock or jumping out of a plane!! I tried to keep in touch a lot by email and in the end my mobile started to work in New Zealand which helped communications somewhat!!