Backpacking

We have both always had a love of travel. Over the years we have become more confident and adventurous in arranging it ourselves. What started as city breaks around Europe became excursions to explore far-flung parts of India whilst on holiday in Goa. One evening we had friends over who had recently returned from Vietnam - and they had arranged the whole trip themselves. From then on, we knew that was what we wanted to do, whenever and wherever possible. It would be much more fun and rewarding than browsing a brochure from the travel agents and following someone else's plan.

We soon discovered that we enjoyed budget travel and the people you meet are of like mind, pretty carefree and chatty but full of information, tips and ideas. Why should budget travel and backpacking be the sole preserve of the young! We are by no means old, Alison a smidgeon over 50, Wayne a little under but both of the age where we need the toilet in the middle of the night!

The Opportunity Arrives...
30th of July 2015, and our employer enters into administration. We both work for the same company, so for the first time in our lives, neither of us has a jo With our daughter being 21 and both sets of parents in good health was this our moment?

Each weekend, over a glass of wine, it was a constant in what we talked about. We have always envied those we had met during our two-week break from work who were away for months at a time. India and Asia have always fascinated us - they bring your senses alive like nowhere else. With well-travelled backpacker routes,they are perfect for first-time budget travellers. Financially, it w possible - but would we have the nerve?

What follows is the story of our travels through Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and India. Over four months, we explore the glittering temples of Chiang Mai, learn more about the horrors of Cambodia's recent past, and discover the natural beauty of Vietnam. We end our travels by finally visiting the fascinati Indian city of Varanasi.