Ayo (Home is where I park) by Charles Forman | explmore publication

Where are you from?

I am from Denmark.

When did you start your interest in exploration?

It was nearly eight years ago when I made a decision that would change everything. A wide-eyed dreamer standing at the crossroads of life in Copenhagen, the bustling heart of Denmark. The city's familiar streets and cosy cafes had been my world for so long, but something inside me yearned for more.

That day marked the beginning of my grand adventure. As the Danish countryside whizzed by my window, I couldn't help but feel a thrill of anticipation. Little did I know that this leap of faith would lead me to incredible experiences, fascinating people, and a whole new perspective on life.

And so, my journey of exploration began, not just of new places, but of myself. Each new city, each unfamiliar face became a chapter in my ongoing story of discovery. Looking back now, I can't help but smile at that nervous yet determined person who dared to leave the familiar behind. It was the first step on a path that has led me to where I am today, forever changed by the decision to venture beyond the borders of my comfort zone.

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

There I was, ten months out from my divorce, feeling like a fish out of water. My marriage had been about as cheerful as a rainy day in Copenhagen, and let me tell you, that city isn't cheap. I was scraping the bottom of the barrel, trying to make ends meet.

One day, it hit me like a ton of bricks - I needed a change, and fast. So, I cooked up a plan that was either brilliant or bonkers, depending on who you ask. I decided to pack up what little I had and move into my buddy's forest. Yep, you heard that right - I traded my apartment for a tent!

Now, you might be wondering, "Why on earth would anyone do that?" Well, let me spill the beans. I had this wild dream of buying an RV, hitting the open road, and living life on my own terms. But dreams like that don't come cheap, so I figured I'd rough it for a while to save up some cash.

So there I was, swapping city lights for starry nights, all in the name of chasing my next big adventure. Was it crazy? Maybe. But sometimes, you've got to take a leap of faith to land where you're meant to be.

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

A simple soul - that's me. I'm no superhero, no hidden genius waiting to be discovered. But you know what? I've got a secret weapon that's served me well through thick and thin.

While others might be wringing their hands or furrowing their brows, I'm the one with a little glimmer in my eye. Why? Because I've learned to see the silver lining in just about any cloud that rolls my way.

I'm the type who rolls up their sleeves and jumps right in. Whether it's tackling a new project at work or trying to fix the car, I'm all about action.

And you know, more often than not, things turn out just fine. It's like life has a funny way of rewarding those who dare to try. So while I may not have any fancy degrees or remarkable talents to boast about, I've got something that's served me even better - a can-do attitude and a smile that just won't quit.

That's my story, plain and simple. Just a regular one making her way through life, one optimistic step at a time.

Where have you explored so far?

I'm sitting here, reminiscing about my wild adventures across the globe. I already set foot in 108 countries. But here's the kicker - 49 of those were explored on wheels in just the last six years! It's been one heck of a ride, quite literally.

Now, let me paint you a picture of my wheeled escapades. I've cruised through every nook and cranny of Europe, dipped my toes (or should I say, wheels?) into Asia and Africa, and even ventured into the vast expanse of Russia. It's like I've been on a real-life version of 'Around the World in 80 Days', except it's been more like 2,190 days!

You want to know where the real fun begins? Turkey, my friend. The winding roads, the breathtaking landscapes - it's a driver's paradise. Then there's Georgia, with its rugged terrain that'll keep you on your toes. And don't get me started on Tunisia - talk about an off-road sand adventure!

Russia and Ukraine? They're like the wild west of driving. And Albania? Now that's a hidden gem if I ever saw one. The roads there are like a rollercoaster ride, minus the safety harness!

The best part is, that this journey's far from over.

What is a brief understanding of your adventures so far?

My travels are not about ticking off famous landmarks or snapping photos at crowded viewpoints. No, my journeys are woven with the threads of human connection, stitched together by the smiles of strangers who become friends.

In my vehicle, nestled between my clothes and camera, you'll find a collection of small treasures. Colorful toy cars, soft teddy bears, and basic hygiene items like toothbrushes and soap. They're my way of leaving a little spark of joy wherever I go.

I remember a time in a remote village, where I met a young girl with curious eyes and bare feet. As I handed her a small doll, her face lit up like the sun breaking through clouds. That moment, that simple act of kindness, is the heart of why I travel.

My dream isn't to see the world from behind a tour bus window. It's to touch lives, even in the smallest ways. Each person I meet, each toy I give, each story I hear – they're all brushstrokes in the masterpiece of my journey. And as I wander these lesser-known paths, I'm not just a traveler passing through. I'm a storyteller, a friend, and sometimes, just maybe, a tiny force for good in this big, beautiful world.

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

A journey along the sun-kissed shores of West Africa, where the continent meets the sea. It's not just three countries I'm dreaming of, but a tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and adventures waiting to unfold.

But that's just the beginning of my tale. Beyond the African coastline, my heart yearns for the vast steppes of Mongolia. Ah, Mongolia! The very name conjures images of endless horizons, nomadic horsemen, and nights spent under a canopy of stars. It's the crown jewel of my travel fantasies, a land that calls to my wandering spirit like no other.

In my mind's eye, I see myself riding across the Mongolian plains, the wind in my hair, surrounded by nothing but open sky and rolling grasslands. It's a dream that outshines all others, a story waiting to be written in the dust of ancient trails and the whispers of mountain winds.

Where would you recommend others visit?

Let me take you on a journey to a land of enchantment, where rolling hills meet ancient forests and time seems to stand still.

This isn't a fairy tale. This is Romania, a country that has stolen my heart and left me yearning to return time and time again. If I could paint a picture of paradise, it would look remarkably like the Romanian countryside, with its lush green meadows dotted with wildflowers and framed by the majestic Carpathian Mountains.

But it's not just the breathtaking scenery that makes Romania so special. It's the people, with their warm smiles and open hearts, who welcome you like a long-lost family. They'll regale you with tales of Vlad the Impaler over a steaming bowl of sarmale, and before you know it, you'll feel like you've found a second home.

So, if you're looking for an adventure that will feed your soul and ignite your imagination, pack your bags and set your sights on Romania. Trust me, it's a story you'll want to be a part of.

How do you primarily travel on your adventures today?

For years, I roamed the highways in my trusty RV, but fate had other plans for me. I bought a 1993 Land Rover Defender. It wasn't just any old car; this machine had stories to tell.

I bought it from an elderly gentleman who'd used it for his forestry work. You could almost smell the pine needles and hear the crunch of leaves under its tires. But I had a vision, a dream that went beyond the woods.

I stripped that Defender down to its bones. Then, piece by piece, I built it back up. The crowning glory? A pop-top turning this forest workhorse into a home on wheels.

Now, as I put the finishing touches on my creation, I can't help but feel a thrill of excitement. This isn't just a car anymore - it's my ticket to the adventure of a lifetime. The west coast of Africa beckons, promising endless horizons, challenging terrains, and memories waiting to be made.

From RV life to rebuilding a classic, and now to the brink of an epic journey - life sure has a way of surprising you. As I look at my Defender, I can't help but grin. Africa, here we come!

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

I'm out on the open road, living my best life with just a few cherished possessions. My trusty axe for chopping wood, a cozy fire pit for those chilly nights, and my handy Omnia oven for whipping up delicious meals.

But that's not all. I've got my LifeSaver to keep me hydrated with clean water, no matter where I roam. And when it's time to kick back and relax? My hammock is there, ready to cradle me in comfort.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "That's an odd collection of stuff!" And you're right, it might not be everyone's cup of tea. But for me? It's pure magic.

Imagine this scene: The sun's setting, painting the sky in warm hues. I'm swaying gently in my hammock, the aroma of a home-cooked meal wafting from my Omnia oven. As night falls, I light up the fire pit, its flames dancing and crackling, casting a warm glow on everything around.

These simple pleasures, these humble tools – they're the secret ingredients to my perfect life on the road. Great food, a cozy place to rest, and the mesmerizing flicker of a bonfire. What more could a wanderer like me ask for?

What inspires you to explore more?

There's a story in every face I encounter, from the Roma families with their vibrant traditions to the brave refugees carrying worlds in their eyes. Each person I meet adds a brushstroke to the canvas of my imagination.

I remember a chilly autumn evening when I stumbled upon a small Roma camp on the outskirts of town. The air was filled with the scent of wood smoke and the sound of laughter. An old woman with wrinkles like ancient riverbeds invited me to share their fire. As we huddled around the flames, she spun tales of her people's journeys across continents, each word igniting sparks of creativity within me.

Then there was Ahmed, a Syrian refugee I met at a local community center. His hands, rough from years of building homes in his war-torn country, now gently cradled a cup of tea as he spoke of the life he left behind and the dreams he carried with him. In his resilience, I found a wellspring of inspiration that flowed into my work.

These encounters, these glimpses into lives so different from my own, they're the lifeblood of my stories. Every smile, every tear, every whispered hope – they all find their way onto my pages, breathing life into characters and weaving tales that bridge our shared humanity.

These people are my inspiration!

How do you engage with others?

I talk with the people I meet.

Why is it important to embrace global cultures?

Sometimes we meet people who speak a different language, wear colorful clothes and cook meals that fill the air with unfamiliar spices. And if we want it, we get to taste beautiful homemade samosas.

Our world suddenly expands. We realize there is so much more to learn and experience beyond our own small town or even country.

To find that understanding and appreciating different cultures helps me connect with people from all walks of life. It makes me more open-minded, creative, and compassionate. I think embracing diversity brings fresh ideas, solves problems in new ways, and builds bridges between communities. It’s all about getting out there. It's like adding new flavors to a recipe – it makes life more interesting and delicious!

What are your goals when you explore?

To be a good human!

What are some challenges you have experienced?

You'd think the toughest moments would come from exploring remote corners of the world, right? But surprisingly, some of my biggest headaches have actually come from folks in wealthy countries who've never set foot outside their comfort zones.

Picture this: I'm strolling through a pristine park in a bustling city, taking in the sights and sounds. Suddenly, I spot a group of locals casually tossing their trash on the ground, as if the world is their personal garbage can. It's like they've never heard of a trash bin!

Then there are the me-first attitudes you encounter. People barging past you in line, hogging seats on public transport, or acting like they own the place wherever they go. It's a stark reminder that having more doesn't always mean knowing better.

These experiences have taught me that sometimes, the real adventure isn't in far-flung places, but in navigating the surprising behavior of those who've never left their own backyard. It's a funny old world, isn't it?