The first rule of an expedition is that everyone should stick together.

I was no longer troubled when he pulled out a machete in a crowded bar, tried to pick up schoolgirls, or threatened to scalp us, then rip off our heads and scoop out our brains.

As a travel writer I've specialized in gritty, fearful destinations, the kind of places that make a reader's hair stick on end.

My father used to say that stories are part of the most precious heritage of mankind.

Respect was one thing. Survival was another. It was important that I kept my priorities in the right order.

On a harsh expedition, there's no space for anyone who does not intend to finish.

I felt sure we could gain the upper hand by putting ourselves in the mindset of the Incas.