The Mare a Mare Nord is a challenging trek across Corsica, spanning nearly 100 miles with significant elevation changes totaling around 7000 meters. This journey, completed in 11 days, offers stunning landscapes and a unique perspective on the island's diverse terrain. Ideal for adventurous hikers, it showcases the natural beauty and rugged charm of Corsica.
The journey along Offa's Dyke spans 177 miles, tracing the historic earthworks that mark the border between England and Wales. The author recounts a 12-day trek from Chepstow to Prestatyn, highlighting the scenic and historical significance of the path, which was inaugurated in 1971 by Sir John Hunt, renowned for leading the first successful ascent of Everest. This exploration not only showcases the natural beauty of the landscape but also delves into the rich heritage of the region.
The route, created by Alfred Wainwright in 1973, spans approximately 187 miles and is divided into 12 stages. It takes hikers through three stunning national parks: the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors. The journey offers a blend of scenic landscapes and natural beauty, making it a remarkable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.
Chronicling a challenging journey along the 270-mile Pennine Way, the author undertakes this iconic trail during the Covid pandemic of 2020, navigating unique obstacles such as the lack of accommodation and open shops. With a resourceful approach, they arrange food drops at post offices and rely on wild camping, highlighting both the physical demands of the hike and the solitude of the experience. This narrative captures the essence of adventure amidst unprecedented times, showcasing resilience and the beauty of the English landscape.
The narrative unfolds through a journey to Guatemala, where the author reconnects with a long-lost friend, David, and experiences the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of the region. Highlights include exploring the bustling market in Chichicastenango, cruising Lake Atitlan, and climbing the ancient pyramids of Tikal. An adventurous trek up the active Pacaya volcano adds excitement, but the revelation of David's hidden past as 'Our man in Central America' becomes the most surprising and intriguing aspect of the trip.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Apuane Alps, this narrative unfolds during a summer climbing trip in 2004 with Dimitri, a former tenant from Cambridge. The story captures the beauty of the limestone landscape, renowned for its Carrara marble, while exploring the bond formed through shared experiences and adventure. The author reflects on their relationship with Dimitri, blending personal history with the thrill of climbing in a picturesque and culturally rich environment.
The narrative follows the author's unexpected deployment to Vietnam for a World Bank project focused on housing reconstruction following Typhoon Damrey in November 2017. As part of a diverse team, the author collaborates with colleagues addressing various sectors such as transport, irrigation, agriculture, fisheries, and economic development, highlighting the multifaceted approach to recovery and the challenges faced in rebuilding communities after natural disasters.
The narrative explores the author's experiences in Colombia, focusing on the community of Cazuca and efforts to enhance the neighborhood through collaboration with young architects and a women's foundation. It also includes vivid accounts of visits to various Colombian cities such as Cartagena and Santa Marta, as well as interactions with the Kogi Indians in Tayrona National Park, providing insights into the culture and challenges faced by these communities.
The narrative follows a journey to Thailand, focusing on the application of satellite imagery for monitoring long-term disaster recovery. After a brief stay in the bustling city of Bangkok, the author spends a week in Ban Nam Khem, a fishing village devastated by a tsunami. The trip also includes a visit to the iconic 'James Bond' island in Phang Nga Bay, adding a touch of cinematic history to the experience.
Set against the backdrop of Venezuela, the story follows David as he navigates his new role working for Manuel, the Minister of Planning. He becomes entangled with Jordi's vibrant family, including uncles who fought against dictatorship and a spirited grandfather. David's adventures include rock climbing in stunning landscapes and a whimsical trip to a fortune-telling witch with Chelo. However, he uncovers troubling secrets about the town's planning site, revealing it sits on an earthquake fault and is owned by his boss, adding tension to his experience.