Tottori, Japan
A lot of people ask me for tips on planning adventures, and going on big trips. I have been fortunate enough to live, work and travel in more than 50 countries across the world, on every continent (including Antarctica!) so I know a thing or two about packing and preparing.
People ask whether the most important thing is to have a very clear budget, or to sort all your visas out in advance, or to learn some of the language before you go. They ask whether they should read a book about the culture, or buy a new rucksack, or make sure they get their house rented out. They ask whether the most important thing is to find a good travelling partner, or find somewhere to stay ahead of time, or pack for all weathers.
Actually it is none of the above.
The most important thing is to GO.
Not just dream about it and talk about it, but actually do it. Planning is fun, but being in the adventure, and then having the memories and lessons from it, is so much better.
Making the decision to GO is the single most important thing you have to do if you want to have a big adventure.
Everything else is just details.
