It could be said that the concept of travelling without the aid of a motor
is experiencing something of a minor rennaisance, while at the same
time coming under increasing threat from the introduction of more
widely accessible transport technology.  Being self-powered means no
emissions (other than what you breathe out) and the opportunity for
much cosier interludes with people and wildlife.  True, it's often the
slower alternative.  But that in itself is a great advantage, for it allows
the senses to be stimulated fully, and gives the mind a chance to
reflect, in real time, on the relationships between traveller and
landscape.  

'No pedigree, no experience, no training' aptly describes the level of
Ben's greenness just prior to embarking on a journey to paddle and
row a whitewater raft down the Amazon River from source to sea.  Since
that time he has witnessed landscapes, cityscapes, wildlife, cultures
and ancient traditions that were previously outside his knowledge and,
in some cases, beyond his imagination.  In amongst it all, he has
come to appreciate that the only pre-requisite you need for such
journeys is a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.   

Click on the text links below to read a journey overview.  Or click on
the accompanying picture to view an image gallery of that journey.
THE AMAZON RIVER
SOURCE TO SEA
KAYAKING THE WARBURTON
AND TREKKING LAKE EYRE
THE YENISEY RIVER
SOURCE TO SEA