A simple, but empowering pledge to live by

Overlanding before it was a hashtag

In 1977, following work in Canada, Antarctica, and the Sultanate of Oman, Alec and Jan Forman embarked on an overland journey that would change their lives forever. For over fourteen months they drove their trusty Land Rover Series III across 40,000 miles, through 29 countries in Europe, Africa, and Asia. Navigating with only maps and a compass, they experienced the delights of rugged landscapes, including the Sahara desert (crossing twice), exploring the valleys of the Hindu Kush, and parking at the highest point of the highest road in the world, in Ladakh.

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Explore more of the world, engage with others, and embrace global cultures.

A man standing on a vehicle looking out through binoculars

Explore more of the world

Each of us has an innate sense of curiosity and wonder about the world. From the moment we took our first breath, we began our individual journeys to explore more of this world and beyond. Engagement with new people and places helps us to learn and grow as humans.

Two vehicles passing with their drivers waving to each other

Engage with others

Adventuring is never a solo venture. Travel creates moments of vulnerability and opportunities for kindness between strangers like no other. With openness and intention, engagement with others can overcome language and cultural barriers to find mutual respect—and even lifelong friendships.

A group of people greeting each other by a campfire and vehicle

Embrace global cultures

Embracing global cultures means celebrating what makes our world so vibrant and richly diverse. Welcoming each other’s perspectives enables us to grow and move forward—together. By connecting across cultures, we change lives, beginning with our own.

An interview with Leigh and Steph of GrizzlyNBear

Alec and Jan Forman chat with Mantra Ambassadors and global adventure seekers, Leigh and Steph of GrizzlyNBear. Sharing stories and comparing notes on the differences of exploring today and before overlanding became a hashtag.

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Explorers, expats, and authors Alec and Jan Forman

Alec and Jan met while serving in the British Army, fell in love, and embarked on their life together with a shared love of adventure. Following their 1977 epic journey, they became involved with relief and rural development projects in Mali and Moldova. In celebration of 40 years of marriage, they wrote a book called Strangers Like Angels - With a Devil or Two to Boot. Today, they delight in sharing their story and inspiring others to seek out their own life changing adventure.

"To take a risk, to step out of the normal routine, is to experience the extraordinary and to stretch yourselves beyond what you ever imagined you can cope with. Bon Voyage!"

— Alec and Jan Forman // Authors and Explorers