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It was reoccurring theme , Chris discovered that many people who are vilified for being on the ‘ wrong side of beliefs ’ are often the most welcoming and friendly . Pakistan was another , a country that soon became a favourite .
“ Pakistan was kind of fun ,” he laughed . “ It was certainly interesting with armed guards that had to escort travellers across the country . Riding with eighteen-year-old with machine guns , sharing stories , learning about their lives .”
Chris did learn many things the second time around and developed a theory that travel is not about places but rather “ the people , the magic happens when you stop and meet people .”
Reaching Australia became a time to reflect , to remember the original ride , to discover more about himself on the second ride . He admits that if the opportunity arises another time he will do things very differently , travelling slower to allow for time to infuse himself into the cultures and absorb the local way of being .
“ Australia was always a dream ,” he reinforces . “ But I need to come back and ride more of the country .”
Admitting that he only rode the east coast from Queensland to Victoria , Chris suggests that he missed the essence of Australia . More time needs to be spent exploring the interior and west , to discover the true spirit of the outback and what it means to be an Australian . It ’ s evident that Chris ’ first ride , all those years ago , taught him what adventure is and how to deal with what comes with it as only a younger person can , the second ride seems to have taught more about himself and where he fits into the greater scheme .
“ There was more adventure back then ,” he smiles . “ A lack of information lead to an ignorance .
“ At twenty-one it was more about the journey , at sixty-four it was about the destination , yet I discovered more .”
Chris points out that today it is easier through technology , communications are at hand , navigation is on your phone , all available knowledge too . Yet he is a firm believer that ignorance is often the best way to travel .
“ Get on your bike and go ,” he closes , pointing out that those who procrastinate should just “ go for it ”. “ People tend to plan things too much , just let it flow and discover the world .”
Chris ’ book of his original journey , Going The Wrong Way , is an outstanding read and available through his website , Amazon , or other retail outlets .
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