Category: Articles & Essays
-
My Perfect Kind Of Sport
I’m on my way back to Armenia, but not in too much of a rush. This morning I woke up, had breakfast and headed out with nothing less than an epic mountain-bike ride in mind. I climbed quiet, steep mountain roads through cool and fragrant pine forests to the upper slopes of the Austrian Alps, near […] Continue reading →
-
Have Micro-Adventures For Better Weekends
I recently came across a new meme by way of Alastair Humphreys’ blog, which I’ve been reading regularly since I read his great travel books while preparing for Ride Earth. The idea of a ‘micro-adventure’ strikes a very relevant chord in this post-ride phase. City life isn’t really my thing. Noise, pollution and a feeling of […] Continue reading →
-
Swim, Bike, Run — Armenia’s Second Annual Triathlon
Last weekend I participated in a triathlon up in the mountains at Lake Sevan, which was organised for the second year running by staff at the US Embassy. Events like this are few and far between in Armenia, as the idea of sport for general health and fitness has not yet gained widespread public acceptance. […] Continue reading →
-
While You’re Waiting, You Might Enjoy…
Maybe you’ve been enjoying reading about my escapades in far-flung lands. And maybe you’re not particularly enthralled by the idea of reading up on my random musings, preparations and escapades as I remain relatively static for the next few months. If so, look no further, as I have a few suggestions that may just keep […] Continue reading →
-
Ride Earth 2009 Charity Calendar
It’s a couple of weeks into January, so it’s likely you’re thinking about getting round buying yourself a calendar for 2009. If you like your calendars to be visually appealing, you could do far worse than stumping up £12.95 for our Ride Earth charity calendar. Produced and delivered by Red Bubble, all of the profit we […] Continue reading →
-
Is Hitchhiking Still Viable?
I am committed to avoiding flying for tourism. Commercial air travel has been in existence for less than a hundred years. There must be another way. This probably meant that there were far fewer travellers, of course, but it probably also meant that those who did partake of long-term, long-distance voyages gained an intimate knowledge […] Continue reading →
-
My New Year’s Resolutions
To ride my planned route with renewed purpose and enthusiasm, using the knowledge that Tenny, my girlfriend, is awaiting my return to guide me when the going gets tough. To return to Iran with less doubt, more experience, and a fresh outlook on the world and my future, friends and family. To live every day like […] Continue reading →
-
Home For Christmas
Good evening. I’m writing from the opulent luxury of my parents’ home! But the luxury doesn’t come from central heating, a hot shower, or a well-stocked fridge (although these things are most enticing). No, the true luxury is the feeling of having a permanent base to come back to, something I haven’t had for almost […] Continue reading →
-
A Quick Trip to Blighty
As you might have guessed from the title of this post, Tenny and I caused something of a stir when we turned up unannounced at my parents’ front door last Sunday night! Continue reading →
-
A New Look For Me — And My Blog
In case you’re wondering why I seem to have disappeared for the last few weeks, I am finally able to bring you news of my predicament. Continue reading →