The world according to Taniya
Mountain/Desert/Ocean/Jungle... which one are you?
Desert - I love the infinite variety of scenery and the feeling of freedom in their vastness. Deserts are full of little gems, both flora & fauna. I can never get bored there. Crossing the Sahara on a camel is so relaxing and peaceful.
What was your first great travel experience?
A trip to Co. Kerry when I was about 12. My brother and I hired bicycles and loved riding around the country roads. Also going the the mountains near Killarney on horseback and mackerel fishing in the Kenmare river, then eating the fish for super. I was left with the feeling of 'must travel more if this is what it's like!'
What has been your favourite journey?
Each trip brings it's own particular pleasures and it's difficult to pin one trip down. The trip from Dehli to Katmandhu must rank amongst the best for all the surprises it brought up - being rowed down the Ganges for 3 days whilst reading 'The Kite Runner', bathing with elephants in Chitwan, Tuk-Tuk racing in Jaipur, the amazing Stupa in Bodanath and a terrific band of fellow travellers.
What are your Top 5 places worldwide?
Yorkshire Dales, Katmandhu, South Omo Valley -Ethiopia, Zanzibar and Valmanya in the French Pyrenees.
Recommend a special place to stay
Stone Town, Zanzibar, for gin & tonics at the most wonderful sunsets, street food and all round atmosphere
Which three items do you always pack?
Bottle of Malt Whisky (really helps a new group relax quickly!), my camera and a little black dress (although not so little these days!)
Which passport stamp are you proudest of?
Nepal - I must return and see more.
Which passport stamp would you most like to have?
Anywhere I haven't been - which leaves plenty of scope.
Where or what is your guilty travel pleasure?
The aforementioned bottle of whisky!