Preparation

The preparation for the journey was at times an energy sapping affair. There was so much to do but a month of waiting to get started seemed like an age.

Enjoyable bit was buying all the necessary gear. The bulk of this was bought from Cotswolds outdoor center in St Albans. I must say they were very patient and also gave us a good discount. Mostly bought lightweight clothes for the warmer countries. Craighopper Nosquito range was our preferred since they were lightweight, had inbuilt mosquito repellent and were relatively stylish even on Steve.

Preparation for our journey

Most of the planning was done on the Internet. Hostels were booked through "hostelbookers" which was quite efficient. I shall advise you in due course if the accommodation actually existed on arrival.

We have 6 lonelyplanet guides to cart with us which seems a lot of weight but equally we felt they were necessary especially in countries like China where written material in english may be in short supply.

The tickets were bought through "Flight Center" in St Albans who were really helpful and did not make a booking charge. The planning involved us being there for hours whilst we explored all the permutations of the B.A. Oneworld ticket. Thanks to Karoline and team for their help. All other agencies made a booking charge ranging from Â£60 to Â£120 pounds per person.