The world according to Minimarch
Mountain/Desert/Ocean/Jungle... which one are you?
A close contest - mountains for fresh air, awesome scenery and views, trees, lush greenery, variety. Ocean comes second for its contrast of energy versus calm and colours. I can watch it for hours, though I don’t necessarily feel the need to bob about on it.
What was your first great travel experience?
Family holiday in Thailand aged 6, although it didn’t seem particularly foreign as we were living in Hong Kong at the time. No doubt a very different perspective of Thailand than today's 'adult' playground. The hotel had fabulous gardens with two monkeys and an elephant – my sister and I were hooked. Our parents hid easter eggs in the gardens for us but all the other kids thought the hotel had done it so we had some fierce competition!
What has been your favourite journey?
Backpacking around Chile probably - complete freedom to choose anywhere on the map and go there. We took public transport and found digs on spec upon arrival. Fantastic contrasts of landscapes and an appreciation of how long and varied a country can really be.
What are your Top 5 places worldwide?
Not necessarily in this order but...
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Pucón / Villarica region of Chile
Melaka, Malaysia
Pie de la Cuesta, Mexico
Barcelona, Spain
Recommend a special place to stay
A tiny paradise in Key Largo – I’d tell you where but then I’d have to …
Which three items do you always pack?
If I really have to choose only three – camera, mini tin of the ever versatile Vaseline (no comments thank you!) and a bucket load of optimism.
Which passport stamp are you proudest of?
Probably the one leaving Malaysia via the ferry from Tioman Island to Singapore as they didn’t seem very willing to give it. It was the first time my UK passport didn’t seem to guarantee the easy passage that we take for granted. I now appreciate what some other nationalities have to contend with.
Which passport stamp would you most like to have?
Zanzibar – I just love the name. Obviously the stamp would actually state Tanzania!
Where or what is your guilty travel pleasure?
Where – in my mind! What – my perky packing list. Sad but true. I blame boarding school!
Window or aisle?
Window