John Hall, my geography teacher at school inspired me to a lifelong interest in geography and a curiosity about our world which has stayed with me through my life. Geography is a living, breathing subject, constantly adapting itself to change. It is dynamic and relevant. For me geography is a great adventure with a purpose.

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 am very cautious of people who are absolutely right, especially when they are vehemently so.

I cut down trees, I skip and jump, I like to press wild flowers. I put on women's clothing and hang around in bars.

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

Contrary to what the politicians and religious leaders would like us to believe, the world won't be made safer by creating barriers between people.

People say the most stupid things on the spur of the moment that they then have to retract.