Moderate

Eight years ago, Christian Aid sent me to Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.  Before my visit, Central Asia was a place I hadn’t really thought about, that had no defining features in my consciousness.  Yet once there, I was captivated by the two countries and wanted to learn more about them.  My experience was shaped by the tension between the sense of an ancient heritage and modern soviet anonymity.  Complex fluid identities were feeling their way through evolving nation-statehood – while remaining proud of their importance to the world’s history over the past 3000 years.  I saw great beauty in the places and people I visited, facing hospitality and suspicion, and contrasts  of arid and fertile landscapes.

Location

Berlin is a huge, vibrant city. It has more than enough distractions for every kind of tourist, and really does seem to have something to do at any time of night.
But the best thing about Berlin is that its history is pressed so firmly into your face that you could lick it. And, with Germany's famous purity laws in effect, you won't pick up any nasties in the process*

For example, I decided to meander between Kreuzberg and Warschauer Strasse, and I stumbled across some beautiful gardens following the course of the old Luisenstädtischer Canal. While this doesn't immediately scream "History!" at you, it turns out that this canal was 1st started in 1852, but the project was abandoned then restarted several times due to the upheaval that Europe was experiencing (2 World Wars, being just part of this). At some point the canal was filled in and provided the foundation for part of the length of the Berlin wall.

Location

Now the holiday starts the get real: I finally get to do some hula hooping and stay in a backpackers. Whilst I've loved the fancy rooms and wildlife, I'm looking forward to more humble accommodation. Ideally with bed bugs.

It's a long way to Swaziland, and the roads get more ridden with potholes the nearer you get to the border. But the real adventure start when you reach passport control. While the South African officials are not so bureaucratic, the boxes of free condoms available in the toilets tell you what their concerns are. Being a sensitive bunch of Western males, we each take a pack to play jokes on the others. When we realise that we are all completely unoriginal, we stash the packs (totalling around 50 condoms) in the glove compartment.

Location

Yesterday evening we arrived at the Buccaneers Lodge and Backpackers resort, just outside of East London, in Chintsa West. Established back in 1983, these guys are considered one of the early pioneers in the South African backpacking industry. After a little confusion over the sleeping arrangements we check in and enjoy an evening meal of South African braai with potatoes and vegetables. A few Castles later and we retire for the evening.

Location