20 Dec (day 137) – The End

The End

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(G): Well, there’s been ups and there’s been downs, but it’s never been boring. We’ve been fantastically fortunate to have been able to take off for six months galavanting around world; see some breathtaking sights, survive some terrifying experiences, and meet some terrific people. And now it’s over. And it’s a strange feeling, because you kind of get used to travelling as a kind of way of life. Like that’s what you do. When someone asks you: “So, what do you do, Graham?” You want to say: “Me? Oh I just travel.” But it can’t be that way. Not forever, anyway. The harsh realities of life drag you back to work and mortgages and routine. Which is not a terrible thing because although it was an awesome once-in-a-lifetime experience, it was difficult at times too, and tiring, and we missed home, and friends, and family, and even work (a little bit).

So now we have to move on to the next ‘project’, whatever that maybe. And I think we probably deserve a holiday soon too. Not travelling though. A proper holiday.

And we’ve got the blog – a really pain in the ass sometimes, for sure – but great for us to look back on as well. So thank you to everyone who followed us and especially those brave souls who commented from time to time – it meant a lot knowing you were there.

Hasta luego.

(L): Here is where the travelling ends for us, and since we shall do little but relax in the sunshine for a few days here in BA, this is our last blog entry. It is a strange feeling. Since I was a youngster I have always wanted to travel ‘round-the-world’, and now I’ve done it. In many ways the experience has far exceeded my expectations, although sometimes it has been a rocky ride. I shall not miss writing the blog, I am a scientist and no word-smith, although it has kept my brain ticking over. Nonetheless, thanks to all of you who have been reading, it has motivated me often.

I can’t say that I have discovered anything about myself – in true traveller fashion – that I didn’t already know, I am much the same Lloydy as I was when I set out. Some things have been noteworthy, nonetheless; I hate humidity, unless I am doing nothing on a beach; I hate bugs; I *loathe* coaches; I am lazy, mostly, unless I have a challenge; I am very lucky to have a good job, some amazing friends and family, and to live in the UK – I missed you Blighty. I’ve also been reminded how much I love mountains, and lakes, and forests. And I love Graham. Even when he’s grumpy.

I suspect that the urge to travel has not been satiated forever, but for now, bring on those beans-on-toast…