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#rtwsoon Interview: Amar – Gap Year Escape

#rtwsoon Interview: Amar – Gap Year Escape

It’s been nearly three months since our last interview but we’re excited to bring you this one. Amar Hussain, someone that inspired us hugely when we first started blogging, is on the verge of setting off on his second around-the-world trip. Lucky man!

If you want to read the Gap Year Escape blog click here or follow Amar on Twitter. In the meantime, enjoy his interview with us!

Who are you?

I’m Amar, the man behind the blog Gap Year Escape. I’m a current resident of London but have been travelling on and off for the last 3+ years. In 2009 I did the ‘classic’ South East Asia, Australasia, North America RTW Gap Year but have also backpacked around Central America and a lot of Europe.

Where are you going on your RTW?

Having done the RTW Gap Year backpacking trip, I thought it was about time to mix things up. I’ve done the long way round, why not the long way down. I start off in Vancouver and then over the course of a year or more, I’m heading south to Antarctica overland. I don’t have a specific route or plan but I should be taking in around 15 odd countries. Antarctica has always been a dream and I love Latin countries. I also have a fair few people to visit in North America so why not just do it all. Go big or go home!

When are you leaving?

I jet off in January 2013. It’s a one way flight and I have no return date. Literally just a starting city and a direction; south. It’s quite thrilling and liberating!

Why did you decide to go on this trip?

Why? I guess why not! When I was living in Sydney I decided that I wanted to try living in London. I’ve done that now, had a good time but quite ready to move on. I’ve not explored South America and Europe is getting cold! I’m getting about 10 months of good weather next year. The only reason I’m starting in Vancouver is because I am going to Whistler first to become a snowboarding instructor and then I’ll head to warmer climes. Weather aside, I just want to get back to minimum possessions and wearing flip flops and shorts all day.

Sky Diving over the Alps

Sky Diving over the Alps

What will you be doing to pass the time before your travels?

Suddenly it hits me how little time I’ve got left. I’ve got far too many goodbyes to do, projects to finish off and all of my belongings to stick in storage. I just realised all of my jabs expired too. I’m being far too laid back about it all. I try not to worry to be honest. As long as you’ve got your passport and a credit card and a few travel essentials, everything will work itself out.

If you could give just one piece of advice to a fellow #rtwsoon traveler, what would it be?

Just leading on from what I said before; chill out. I’ve noticed a massive difference between going on my first Gap Year and leading up to my second one. The first time I must admit I was far too excited and keen which is totally understandable. I think I’ve just learnt to take things as they come. Don’t read a guide book, leave things to chance and make mistakes. You’ll never have a smooth journey regardless of whether you plan every detail or not so why bother? Just relax and enjoy the journey.

If you’re heading around-the-world in the next 12 months and would like to be featured here, please contact us.

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