With a tagline of ‘backpacking the world indefinitely’ and now an iquique brand ambassador, Alison really does embody the travel philosophy we try to advocate here.
Having stepped foot in over 40 countries, with no sign of slowing down, we wanted to ask a few burning questions revolving around travel and what’s next during a momentary rest back in the UK...
iqu: So, you’ve been to over 40 countries but we wanted to know what drew you to Kyrgyzstan, a country often overlooked by backpackers?
Alison: I was recommended by my boyfriend to visit here as he had done a similar trip a few years prior and absolutely loved it. I am happiest in the mountains, and Kyrgyzstan isn’t shy when it comes to mountains! The hiking, the scenery and just the fact that it isn’t explored as often by tourists made me so curious and I just had to visit here because of this. It did not disappoint. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking (pardon the pun, the average elevation is over 9000ft and can be quite brutal). The people were some of the kindest I’ve encountered and the food was so delicious. Would highly recommend it!
iqu: What keeps you coming back to backpacking?
Alison: I love the feeling that backpacking gives me, it’s so addictive. I get so excited when I land in a new place and know how much there is to see and explore. I also love the people that you come across on your travels, often people who you wouldn’t normally interact with much in your day to day life at home. But you all find something in common. I’ve made some of my closest friends through backpacking.
iqu: What’s next for you and your backpack?
Alison: I am heading out to Australia and New Zealand next month for an unknown amount of time (via a multi day stopover in Shanghai of course, any excuse to visit a new place whilst breaking up the long journey- girl math!)
iqu: Finally, do you have any tips for anyone who wants to live a more nomadic life like yours?
Alison: Just do it! I wanted to do it for so long before I finally took the leap and I wish I’d done it sooner now. If money is a big worry for you but you still want to travel lots, working holiday visas are your best friends! They’re available for numerous countries and allow you to travel, explore AND earn money whilst you go.
That's it from our conversation with Alison. She's living life as we all wish we could but we hope this has helped you to take the leap - she's proven it's possible! We're excited to have her on board as an ambassador and can't wait to see her content from the other side of the globe.
