Where are you from?

Ireland

When did you start your interest in exploration?

We have always dreamt of something unforgettable. A chapter of our lives that we will never forget. Amy travelled all around Europe and the USA while she represented Ireland in Powerlifting. Danny drove from Ireland to Croatia with his parents as a kid, and instantly fell in love with life on the road. We were set out to leave in our previously owned Sprinter Van in 2020, but life as we knew it changed, so we waited.

What is a brief understanding of your background story up until you started seeking adventure?

Amy graduated from college with an Honours Degree in Biomedical Science 3 years ago, after which she worked with a BioPharmaceutical Company, but now has an interest in Holistic Wellness and Nutrition. 

Danny studied Sports Science in college, but dropped out after 2 years to pursue his passion for woodworking.

What special skills do you have to help with your explorations?

Danny made a living building camper vans and ambulances, and gained a lot of knowledge to build our Defender into a home on wheels. Between us, we speak 6 languages. Amy has a huge understanding of nutrition, and first aid so she keeps us both healthy. We both train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, a martial art we hope we never have to use but glad we know it.

Where have you explored so far?

America, Canada, Denmark, Netherlands, Italy, Croatia, Poland, France.

What is a brief understanding of your adventures so far?

We arrived in Bilbao, Spain 7 weeks ago, after a gruelling 33 hour ferry across the stormy Sea. We were on the road for 10 days, when Amy had a terrible accident that involved second degree burns all over her feet. We spent the next month between hospitals, we slept on a strangers living room floor, we adapted. Afterwards, we continued West until we reached León, where Danny competed in BJJ and won gold in the U82.3KG category. After a week in León, we headed South until we reached Portugal, and spent 5 days in Bragança, exploring and training. We now head West to Porto.

What are the top three destinations you hope to explore next, and why?

Turkey

Thailand

Bali

Where would you recommend others visit?

If in Spain, Picos De Europa is a must. Especially the Gorge Trail. The most beautiful hike we have ever done. The national park itself is magical.

How do you primarily travel on your adventures today?

2008 Land Rover Defender PUMA 110.

Roof Top Tent

Rear Door Drop Table

Side-Mounted Water Jerry Cans

What are five pieces of equipment that you always travel with?

Our BJJ Gis

Trasharoo

Air Compressor

MaxxTraxx Sand Boards

Shovel

What inspires you to explore more?

The fear of living a boring, average life. A life full of regrets.

How do you engage with others?

We like to keep to ourselves, but also enjoy meeting new people from all around the world through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Each academy we visit has a blend of different nationalities, religions and beliefs, yet we all set them aside and come together to share our passion.

Why is it important to embrace global cultures?

To learn that we are all the same. At the end of the day, it doesn't matter where you're from, we should all treat each other with love and respect as we all share one planet.

What are your goals when you explore?

We walk at least 10km everyday, that way, we not only stay fit, but also get to explore the area we are staying at. We aim to become better individuals, to learn new skills, new languages, and most importantly, to share our knowledge and experiences with others.

What are some challenges you have experienced?

Amy's accident was a big one. Getting Lou (Our Defender) ready for this expedition was a 6-month headache which we thought would never end. We are not afraid of new challenges, as they empower us to continue living this lifestyle.

What has been your most meaningful moment so far?

Meeting a stranger, who we now call a brother. A person who was willing to take us into their home and take care of Amy. A person who puts everyone else's needs in front of theirs. We will always be family.

How has exploration changed you?

We have both learned to appreciate the small things in everyday life.

What is the number one lesson that you have learnt through your exploration?

Don't cook inside on an unstable surface.

How do you explore locally?

Walking.

What does the explmore mantra mean to you?

Get off the couch and go. Doesn't matter how far or for how long, but what matters is that you explore. It is encoded in our DNA to seek new adventures and experiences, and it is our responsibility to fulfill this desire everyday. Otherwise, we fail to live.

What advice would you give to others who are seeking life changing adventure?

Just start. If it scares you, it's good, do it. Quit that job that you hate. Move out of that city. Start that online course. Get out of your comfort zone, that's where you will find real happiness.