The world according to pollylew
Mountain/Desert/Ocean/Jungle... which one are you?
The jungle holds a real fascination for me. Ever since a child I wanted to explore a jungle. I have been really fortunate to visit the Amazon in Brazil, Borneo rainforest, Amazon basin in Ecuador, Canaima in Venezuela and Tortuguero and Monteverde in Costa Rica. The sights, the sounds, the atmosphere - I love them all!
What was your first great travel experience?
Travelling to New York in 1976 to visit my husband's family. Everything seemed so big and so fast. I remember my first view of the New York skyline as we drove in from Kennedy airport - magnificent! Of course the twin towers were there then - I think about 3 years old. Sadly they were missing on our most recent visit.
What has been your favourite journey?
I think it has to be a trip to Ecuador which covered mountain (Cotopaxi national park), ocean (The Galapagos) and rainforest (The Amazon basin on the Napo river).
What are your Top 5 places worldwide?
Machu Picchu Peru, Monteverde cloud forest Costa Rica, theTaj Mahal India, the Galapagos Islands, and the Amazon rainforest, Brazil.
Recommend a special place to stay
Muchenje safari lodge in Botswana. We stayed there in 1996 - a small lodge overlooking the Chobe river towards the Caprivi strip in Namibia. A wonderful experience.
Which three items do you always pack?
My camera, a spare pair of glasses and plenty of suncream.
Which passport stamp are you proudest of?
This is a really difficult one - possibly Peru.
Which passport stamp would you most like to have?
Probably New Zealand.
Where or what is your guilty travel pleasure?
Staying in good quality accommodation whenever possible.
Window or aisle?
I don't mind either, but not the middle seat - nowhere to put my arms!!