I want people to know there is more to Somalia than looting and piracy.

I am restless. I don't mind leaving this comfortable, static life. I could live a year on my own in a remote village.

There are many ways of seeing the world. You can hang upside down from a meteor, volunteer to be the fourth stage of a three-stage rocket, or simply get in a balloon and keep going. But if it's sheer, unadulterated discomfort you're looking for, just stay on land.

I enjoy writing, I enjoy my house, my family and, more than anything I enjoy the feeling of seeing each day used to the full to actually produce something. The end.

It's not an easy option. The essence of travel is letting go of habit and prejudice and relishing the unfamiliar. Food you've never eaten before, a language you've never spoken before, religion that mystifies, customs that confuse, politics that perplex, all question everyday assumptions about how you live your life.

I'm aware that, if you feel down, it can be strangely unrelated to circumstances around you. That's just the way life is.

I always wanted to be an explorer, but - it seemed I was doomed to be nothing more than a very silly person.