 ben - Stayloose | All Comments |
Comments | |
| 29th July 2009 Bob Carlsen | So what is the ending - From: I'm Always Happiest When I'm Learning I ran across your amazing blog and spent hours reading it from Isreal to Malawi...not quite as hard as riding a bike that distance! However, your tale just stops here at July 7, 2007 although it was published in November 2008. So did you meet up with Jess? Did she accompany you all the way to Cape Town? Did you make it to Cape Town? You have to finish the story. Good grief it's July 2009 now. |
| 10th June 2009 carole | oy - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" perfect timing to me finding your blog just as I'm about to leave for Uganda for a rather short visit. I'm thinking that I will want to spend more time there in the future and could imagine myself experiencing things much as you did. Oh, but I'm a woman and will likely have an entirely different set of experiences. At the same time, good people are good people. Traveling requires a bit of trust. |
| 9th May 2009 Arun Kr.Prasad | Touching & wonderful - From: I am an ignorant tourist Hello Ben! Hats off to your courage & valour. I'm touched with your account of Khartoum & agony its people are suffering. I'm very upset & disturbed about safety of my son, who is presently working in Khartoum.May god help him as he has helped you. |
| 13th November 2008 Maj | Hey - From: I'm Always Happiest When I'm Learning Wow, you have feelings for Jess!! Didn't see that coming mate :) I wish you guys best of luck. And keep learing, coz once you stop, you're either getting old or dead!! |
| 7th November 2008 Brian Glanville | - From: I'm Always Happiest When I'm Learning Hi Ben, I think your blog is fantastic. The way you describe things, and the little things that you notice about life and people really create an atomsphere and help me relate to your experience and trip. Delighted for both you and Jess, that she's okay. Best of luck with the rest of your trip. Hope the last part is the best part. |
| 24th October 2008 Alan Wickham | Not home yet ?? - From: My Life as a Couple So where the hell are you ?? I asumed you would have gotten home by now ?? So whats the status ?? Girl slowed you down or are you just catching up after no blogs for ages?? Well keep in touch Al Lynita & Oli |
| 17th October 2008 Maj | Finally - From: And to stand there, completely alone, is surely one of the most joyous things a person can ever do. Finally dude!!!!! Ive been waiting for your blog for ages. Good to know youre okay and keep it up. Your writing reminds me of Fran Sandham, another cool Brit. |
| 17th October 2008 John | - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" Saw your story while surfing around and it was very inspiring, and I also love your writing style. The honest content and character more than made up for the insignificant spelling errors that others foolishly griped about. Keep up the good work. |
| 14th October 2008 Madison | - From: And to stand there, completely alone, is surely one of the most joyous things a person can ever do. Have not seen you blogged for quite awhile. I am glad you are still alive. Good writing. |
| 28th September 2008 Mingalaba | big fish, little fish, cardboard box dance - From: And to stand there, completely alone, is surely one of the most joyous things a person can ever do. I thought the old fashioned 'mosh' was the only dance you knew...? Seems odd reading all this so long after the event, but still as gripping as ever. I'll never forget some of the conversations we had just hours after you landed back in the UK, when this was all still so fresh in your mind. It all makes so much sense & yet is all such utter madness all at the same time... |
| 25th September 2008 chilbertto | good story - From: And to stand there, completely alone, is surely one of the most joyous things a person can ever do. good writing mate, painted a good picture of your times. felt like i experienced it too. i like final beer you finsihed with. keep it up |
| 24th September 2008 Laurie Birch | A Great Read - From: And to stand there, completely alone, is surely one of the most joyous things a person can ever do. Was worried that our blogs were too long... untill I read yours! Fabulous read though, quite forgot where I was for a minute there. Makes me want to go back to Africa all over again. Thanks for sharing a brilliant adventure. |
| 24th September 2008 Alice | - From: And to stand there, completely alone, is surely one of the most joyous things a person can ever do. Amazing - thanks for writing this. It's been long enough I've forgotten some of the awe and adventure from that trip. And your experiences solo in Zambia are just phenomenal. As always, looking forward to more. Hope you're doing well. --A |
| 26th August 2008 SailorRob | From the American you met in Wadi Halfa - From: To Remind Me I'm Alive... Yo Ben, what ever happened to you buddy? Nice drinking tea with you that morning in Wadi Halfa, it was quite a relief to meet another Westerner in the middle of freakin nowhere. Hope all is well... Rob |
| 11th July 2008 JM akkerman | fantastic writing, inspiring! - From: But Africa is Broken I want to go from Egip to Cape town, and reading your blog inspires me even more although I wont be cycling! did you get to finish the journey? as after this page there doesnt seem to be anything more? Hope you did it all. and that it all ended fun and well. Respect mate, a Dutch guy living in London. www.cirquenova.com |
| 28th June 2008 beebwa | Info. for Fellow Travellers - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" Your journey from Kampala to the Rwanda border is remarkable by the fact that you don`t mention the names of the small townships you stopped and spent nights. Apart fro Fort Portal, Kasese and Kisoro, you just rant about "shitty" hotels, without mentioning the names of the towns. You even never told your readers that the tree climbing lions are found in Ishasha Game Reserve. How about Lake Edward? And the name of the border crossing to Rwanda? All in all, your blog does not help other people who intend to follow your footsteps |
| 22nd May 2008 Leslie | Avi - From: But Africa is Broken Just started reading your blog, as I'm planning to go to Tanzania and take the MV Liemba to Zambia. I met Avi; we volunteered at a game reserve together in South Africa in October 2006 and his next stop was Tanzania. He and I also disagreed about Israel. He overheard (a drunken) campfire conversation in which I compared Zionism to Apartheid and the next morning said that "certain people were ignorant and didn't know what they were talking about." I think he meant me. Despite that, I liked him too. He had just come off his army service and seemed pretty traumatized by it, though he hid this well. Interesting guy, amazed to see him mentioned in after such a random search for that old ferry boat! |
| 4th May 2008 Kathryn | nice journal - From: A City Full of Crazy People That story was hilarious, now it makes me want to go there... BRING ON CRAZPY PEOPLE!!!! |
| 29th April 2008 patrick marsh | interesting perspective - From: City Of Lava Thanks for the honest evaluation of things. Ive noticed this kind of entrepeneurship in many strange places. |
| 8th February 2008 Bill | The name of the moutain town - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle Hi Ben, great blog, the way you rite this stuff is interesting. I was curious to know the name of that little mountain town where the air is fresh before you reach Tanzania. Thanks |
| 29th December 2007 douglas | Snap(buses excluded) - From: But Africa is Broken Seen your story on north west news and it caught my eye as i did a similar trip in 2000/2001. From SA- Morocco. Unlike you i wasnt a cyclist and for the first few weeks it felt like my bottom had been put through a shredder. However 18 months later,2 bikes and several thousands of miles later i rolled into Spanish North Africa.Since then there's never been a day where my minds eye hasn't processed some event of the trip.My trusted bike chose retirement in the shed. We are both very happy with this arrangement!!! |
| 24th October 2007 Teresa | Community among the citizens-like you and me - From: But Africa is Broken Its been a long time man - glad to hear that some things haven't changed. ....often piss drunk British guy....hmmmm! Just kidding. You mention the corrupt government and police systems and the commonplace rip offs..blah, blah, blah. Tell me more about the community life, the everyday exchanges, the bonds demonstrated amoung the people like me and you and their families. How do they interact? How does this differ from England? As always Ben, I am proud of your accomplishments. |
| 21st October 2007 John | its a holiday in cambodia.................or africa - From: But Africa is Broken The Dead Kennedy's are top, the reason they are so good is unlike most punk bands they were actually musicians, i think 2 of them were in a jazz band before the DK's. I just missed them with Jello Biafra the one and only time they came to the UK in 1982 i was 13. But saw them 2003 without Biafra, they were good but it was not quite the same without his vocals. Other good American hardcore punk bands from that era MDC early Bad Brains, early Black Flag, Although Rollins is a tosser. Jello Biafra is on a spoken word tour in November im going to see him here in Manc. Heard of UK punk rockers GBH? saw them for the millionth time last night, great as ever. |
| 15th October 2007 slimvolume | i've always wanted to know... - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" what exactly an african american is? is it an african who's grown up in the u.s.? an american who's grown up in africa? or a black person who's grown up in the u.s.? put into the equation that the term "american" also refers to 2 whole continents and you're in deep water. i mean my family are mostly irish and i was brought up in england but i don't call myself an irish briton do i. or maybe i should start... |
| 13th October 2007 Sam | there's no shame in being crazy, british & often piss-drunk - From: But Africa is Broken In fact some might argue that 'british & often piss drunk' is something of a truism, particularly in the tropics. As for shouty, I'm guessing there were mitigating circumstances (eg gin + ship's engines + frustrating political opinions). And dont worry about your views - I think they're more often than not refreshingly honest and spot-on. Anyway, glad to hear you're safe and well & congratulations on finally getting past 7 degrees south. God knows it's taken a while. |
| 13th October 2007 Alice | I still haven't physically assaulted any children yet.... - From: But Africa is Broken Only verbally, and just a little. How are you? I was on a long bus ride in Laos today (and yesterday, and the day before that...), and at one point I started to wonder where you were and how the road was treating you. I'm home in a little over a week (I nearly wet myself just writing that) - freaking out about reverse-culture-shocking. I'd write more but the mozzies are eating me. Stay well! A [And I meant ‘Crazy, shouting, often piss drunk British guy’ in the nicest possible way, I swear!] |
| 13th October 2007 Ouaga | Little surprises - From: But Africa is Broken Hi there, loved reading about your thoughts on Africa...I haven't been here quite as long, but I understand totally. Why ARE things so fucked up? Corruption, imperialism, mismanagement, wealth distribution, tribalism...the list goes on. Sometimes I feel like I am done with this continent, and with the lack of logic, the bumpy roads, the rip-offs. But then you encounter one of those magical African moments - a generous local, a warm smile, a beautiful view - and you realise things aren't TOTALLY fucked. Keep up the good work! |
| 13th October 2007 Sarah | Crazy piss drunk British guy - From: But Africa is Broken That sums you up pretty well Ben, but then that's why you're so memorable. |
| 12th October 2007 grantcorp | Keep it up. - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle Few things are as aggravating as getting ill in a faraway place where nobody knows your name. As an independent traveller one signs up for it as part of the experience, and I think that those that pull through it generally come out of it with a better understanding of both themselves and the world around them. I like your open style of writing which makes it easy for the rest of us to share a bit of the experience. |
| 31st July 2007 John | Balls - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle Yes I also strained something in my balls while shifting a washing machine for a friend. I didn't walk down the street with a hand in my trouser pocket to minimalize the risk of sudden jolts and more pain as you had to though. I had an idea, while curled up on the bed in pain, I sent my wife out to buy me 'underpants' (like you wore when you were a kid), but a couple of sizes too small. These kept everything tightly in place untill things down there made a full recovery. Ball-ache aside, cheer up Ben, remember its been pissing down all summer here in blighty and everyones at work while you are on your jollies! |
| 28th July 2007 Annie | re. bullock pain - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle Hi, I'm a Canadian family doctor. I happened into your blog. It's great, you write so well. Sounds to me like you had testicular torsion. Where the testicle twists and the blood supply gets twisted off. That's why holding it up when you walk makes it feel better. It's excruciatingly painful and requires emergency surgery within 24 hours to save reproductive capacity. It sounds like it went its natural course. I don't know what the ultrasound showed, it should have shown the blood supply problem. Blood tests don't show anything, unless there is infection accompanying it, in which case the white cell count will be up. If I'm right, well, you should be ok, you still have the other testicle to make children with. But, what an ordeal to go through. |
| 26th July 2007 Lynita | At least you're not dead! - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle Hey Ben. Like many we were just talking about you and were wondering if you were ok. Sorry about the bollocks. Alex arrived today from the UK to see Sara. They are in Nairobi staying with us for a couple of days before heading to Tanzania. Nairobi reunion?? Take care. Lynita, Alan, Sara & Alex |
| 26th July 2007 FilmGirls | wow - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle Way to not give up! I look forward to reading more, but hopefully the next leg of your next adventure will be kinder, especially to your nether regions. Your persistence is inspirational! |
| 26th July 2007 michiamopatrizio | So I hope you're finally on to better things - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle Stumbled upon your blog. Really dig your style and your stories. Quite a tall order you stacked up for yourself biking all through Africa. My sister just returned from Malawi. Not sure if you're headed through there but lot's of great stuff there and very friend to muzungu. Cheers! Patrick www.travelblog.org/Bloggers/michiamopatrizio/ |
| 26th July 2007 Eleanor Lee | - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle What a story! My husband and I just got back from Africa (blog on this site) and had some adventures but nothing that dramatic! Wish I could tell you that it's only Jesus who gets me thru stuff like that but don't know if you'd listen...maybe you will after all that though :) |
| 25th July 2007 JM in NJ | not good for your career - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle I came into this site looking for my daughter's latest journal from Japan and I end up in Burundi. Empathize with the loneliness part and praise your staying power. Great story - can't believe I read the whole thing while sitting in the office. I could hardly sit still through your description of the PAIN. Don't think you will be returning anytime soon. Happy trails... |
| 25th July 2007 Fafa | What a trip report - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle OMG, just ready your trip report, hope you're feeling better. Sounds pretty horrendous, sure can't get any worse! |
| 25th July 2007 simon | exclamations - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle Ben, that is some story. I was thinkning about your blog just the other week and realised I hadn't read anything from you for quite a while, so I was pleased top see teh message pop up today that you had posted another entry. It's a horrific amount tha you've gone thorugh and I think it's wonderful that you're getting on, and finding the nuggets which make it all worthwhile. What an experience, I think to myself, what an absolutely amazing thisng to have done! |
| 25th July 2007 sam | holy crap ben - From: So I finally go and rupture a testicle sounds like you've been going through hell...you're made of some tough stuff alright. respect.. glad you're still alive |
| 30th June 2007 Emma | Lack of entry - From: So I finally go and catch malaria no worries, he's ok, just been in hospital i think, nothing too serious, back on the road soon |
| 20th June 2007 anonymous | - From: My Life as a Couple I feel like I'm walking in the Rwanda, where despite signs of progress (clean streets and roads) the ghosts of the past catastrophic genocide and evidence of poverty still haunts the scene. Prayers going up... A. Bandon-Bibum, Sojourner's Dream. |
| 18th June 2007 Angeline | Good Story and Great Photos of Rwanda... - From: My Life as a Couple Greetings, This is a very good story, with an interesting tone. These are excellent photos of Rwanda. Angeline. http://angelinebandonbibum.blogspot.com http://sojournersdreamanovel.blogspot.com |
| 26th May 2007 Cliff | 2 months ago... - From: So I finally go and catch malaria Just a bit worried looking at the date of your last post - 2 months ago! Hope the Malaria didn't knock you back all this time...even just posting a cpl words will reassure us all! |
| 18th May 2007 Nathan | I'd rather be where you are.... - From: So I finally go and catch malaria Excellent posts, they have helped me pass lots of hours at work in Manchester.... keep them up, take care ! |
| 16th May 2007 Mot | Hitting Children - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" Everything you write and the WAY you write is the truth. You're not trying to be flowery or pretentious - and you're certainly not being RACIST?! - but you are just telling it like it is. Fuck it if not every word's spelt right, there's reasons and I know you're not going to let them put you off. What's important is it reads like a hugely entertaining bar-room anecdote, told by someone who observes this world with wider eyes than most. Love it. (But try not to hit anymore kids, alright?!!) |
| 14th May 2007 sepasi | ups and downs, smiles and frowns - From: So I finally go and catch malaria It's just wonderful, like reading about myself. I totally understand the feelings yuo have and entirely empathise, and I think it's just terrific that you manage to battle on before fate lends its hand and you land on your feet, meeting what sound like great folk. I'm loving the blogs; they certainly takle my mind away from staring at neds and office blocks out the window from my Maryhill workplace. All the best. |
| 6th May 2007 travellingmum | love your blogs - From: So I finally go and catch malaria Sorry you were so lonely. Maybe you could sell your experiences to a University study on depression and lonliness - make yourself a bit of money ;) well you are very brave and all you have to remember is the online family who are following your everystep - you are never truly alone! Keep going!! |
| 2nd May 2007 maz | - From: So I finally go and catch malaria Hey, did you get anti-malaria medicines? This would prevent you from getting this fever ;-) |
| 2nd May 2007 jock(dave powells mate) | a little bit of malaria!! - From: So I finally go and catch malaria crack on with ben you wimp,how do you think i felt in vietnam!!! |
| 30th April 2007 anonymous fan | ranting - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" While Ben's sexual graphic description is a bit graphics, he probably should tone it down a bit, but that does not make him a racist. If he describes it like it happened, than it is what it is. If the woman was a another color would that change anything. I have followed Ben's adventure for a long time. He described his joice and agony in every part of the continent. He is an equal opportunity offender. |
| 29th April 2007 Mingalaba | Reporting Real Life - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" Ben, keep bringing us the story as you see it. There's something quite refreshing in reading such open & honest writing as yours. Don't take these comments seriously & don't start censoring your thoughts. As fr spelling, perhaps those who complained have never tried to use the internet in the third world.... Even the best English students are likely to make mistakes. Respect. |
| 28th April 2007 Kyana | Quality! 100 spot on!!! - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" Myself a Ugandan now in living London but have seen QE (aka Queen Elizabeth), Als bar (we will Rock You & did you meet Deo the Manager or Keith the DJ??), Bubbles (of course!), JK (aka Just Kicking - possibly before your time) and the Goat Races!!! I could go on on;- Sipi, white water fafting, bungy jumping... Kampala rocks!!! nme |
| 27th April 2007 John | - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" Any European that has travelled in Africa knows that they will get propositiond by prostitutes at some point, its happened to me. Its not racist for bringing that subject up, its the shitty economics of the world we live in. Put your 'politcally correct beating stick' away mate. |
| 26th April 2007 Mina | Get a grip - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" Wow - the comments are beginning to get fun! Anyone who has visited developing countries is aware of the prostitution phenomena, especially at expat bars. Tourists breed and encourage the industry (they're even going to make it legal in South Africa for the World Cup games). When $10 USD will pay for food for a week, there's a lot at stake and it's not passing judgement or being racist to describe aggressive tactics. David - I'm a little taken aback by your even thinking this was racist. You're trivializing a very big problem by applying it to this situation. Ben treated this person as a human, not as an object. He did not judge her or condemn her. What exactly did he do that was racist? If you're talking about specific, racist acts rather than the institutionalization of racism in our economic system, then you are incredibly off base. And oh yeah, Ben: your spelling is quite fun. I'm glad blogging is part of your life again. You slacked off a bit there. |
| 26th April 2007 Pagan Dan | discretion - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" Your comments about the prostitute are not appropriate. This is the Internet, and you never know who will read your stuff. Little kids. Young teens. Nuns. Your opening comments were so puerile that I lost interest in reading the rest of your post, but I did so. It was good. You have ability. Too bad you got off to a bad start. |
| 24th April 2007 S. Andersen | - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" You are a horrible speller. Were you drunk while posting this blog? |
| 23rd April 2007 David Robinson | You are a racist - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" There is more to the story - which you want to hide or exclude, thus your portrayal of the scene at best becomes questionable. As an African American - I am offended by you portraying - that the African women are rushing to grab your reproductive organs - because you are white. Your article comes across as a white supremacist - just saying openly I am a racist. |
| 23rd April 2007 Chris Bowden | Loving it - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" Ben, yet again, I read your blog with great interest, good to hear you're doing well and enjoying yourself. Richard and Hayley (owners of Upper Hill Campsite in Nairobi) pass on their regards - small world. You've managed to get a fair way since the Dharma Lounge in Zanzibar. Look forward to reading some more entries, when its published into a book, I'll edit it for you for free! |
| 23rd April 2007 Jade | Hey!! - From: "Get your hand out of my pants" or "Tree Climbing Lions" or "I didn't see the Internally Displaced Person Camps" Hey Ben!! Just a quick note to say i am still loving reading about your travels.. your writing style is great, i usually think that i'll just have a quick read through your entries, but im hooked until the end! Stay well, keep writing - ciao, jade (aussie girl from syria, jordan & egypt who loves 10% alcohol beer!) |
| 1st April 2007 Leah O'Bryant | Big softy - From: My Life as a Couple Hey Ben, You are a big softy and it is so nice to see. I always knew that if you wore a shirt that said "One Love" on the front something would ware off on you. Best of luck, Leah |
| 26th March 2007 Kari | Wow - From: My Life as a Couple I really like the way you wrote that. So much of what you say is true. I´ve often thought I would have to fall in love with a fellow traveller, because he would acutally understand my traveling life, so naturally I thought I would meet someone along the way... hasn´t happened yet, but I think I can turn the guy I´m with now into a traveller. Thanks for the nice blog' Kari |
| 25th March 2007 Lynita, Alan & Barney | No tandem bike then! - From: My Life as a Couple Pole sana Ben. I was nearly going to start looking on ebay for a bicycle built for two! Let destiny play its part - or dump your bike with us here in Nbo and chase the girl. Either way.... on your bike! Take care L, A & Barney (pooch) |
| 17th February 2007 John | - From: Green Hills and Dirt Tracks Nice work Ben, well written. I like the story about the saggy tits, makes the whole blog seem so real! Death to extreme sports people. Pull their bleached dreads out Snap their ray-ban sunglasses Whats so extreme about spending daddies cash snow bording six months a year anyway. |
| 16th February 2007 Tim | Trucks & Tourists - From: Green Hills and Dirt Tracks You are superior, don't doubt it for a minute.... |
| 15th February 2007 Lynita | Thought you were dead - From: Green Hills and Dirt Tracks Hey Ben. Glad to hear from you again. Had been talking with Moises so knew you weren't dead! Still talk about you with the crew here in Nbo. Moises on safari at the moment with his mum and friends, has new ngo to come back to after his break in Spain - no more cabbages! Sarah broke up with Alex over Skype - gotta love that girl! Sam has gone from here to the UK to work. We have a puppy called Barney. Still drinking Tusker. Take care, and stay in the saddle. x L & A |
| 15th February 2007 Mark | - From: Green Hills and Dirt Tracks Happy belated New Year, Ben! You don't know me, but I'm still following along, and reading your blogs from North America. It's great entertainment. Keep it up! |
| 14th February 2007 Vlad | - From: Green Hills and Dirt Tracks Glad to finally read about you again! Spectacular sights, but i can't help myself to ask one question: isn't it a little hot? Ride on brother and bring us the pearl! |
| 6th February 2007 Nerys | Hello - From: I am a Movie Star Hi, I'm just a keen reader of your blog, I kind of fell in love with it. I hope you are ok. Please write soon. Nerys (Ireland) |
| 31st December 2006 Daniel faulkner | merry xmas and happy new year - From: I am a Movie Star alwight benbo. it's daniel here, a fellow cyclist - the fairweather variety who bailed having hit the middle east, somewhat fatter now. good job - you're doing well, hope that tyre i gave you hasn't been called upon, it's a warped death trap. take it easy and have a good new year, give me a shout when you're 'local'... d |
| 21st December 2006 Teresa | Endurance - From: I am a Movie Star In the recesses of one's mind, a man can conjure many of pleasantries and demons. The key to greatness is going the extra steps that are painful and difficult. Thank you for showing all, that their dreams can be achieved. May the open road gently teach you crucial lesson, as your mind and heart remain open to access the help along the way. Merry Christmas Ben, and a happy New Year. |
| 20th December 2006 missmbna2004 | glad the suns shining again. - From: I am a Movie Star Hey you. Sorry Kenya was low, reading it was still an inspiration, keep on doin it. Hope your suns shining again now. Im in rainy Glasgow, there are glue sniffers here too, no zebras, just stray dogs. Be grateful! Take care of you. Jen x |
| 14th December 2006 Sammie | hi from down under - From: I am a Movie Star Hey Ben, Sammie here again, just finished reading the latest entries - WOW - your movie stint and your travels sound A-Mazing - keep energised and keep writing - we all love to read and share your adventures with you! - Take care - Cheers - Sammie - Sydney - Australia |
| 13th December 2006 Jacqui B | - From: I am a Movie Star This is your mum, just to say that I'm so glad that I read these AFTER the event - it reassures me that you are still alive!! Love Mum |
| 13th December 2006 Mot | Two Gallants are my new favourite band - From: I am a Movie Star Ben. I absolutely love reading your blog - it seriously just gets better and better! Tragedy follwed by mirth tempered by an unflinching bravery and an unflagging sense of adventure. Your personality courses through every account like you're telling me this stuff over a couple of pints in The Wheatsheaf! Keep it up buddy, there'll be more than a couple of pints waiting for you when you get back!! P.S. Two Gallants are my new favourite band. Thank you thank you thank you . . . . . . . . |
| 12th December 2006 Jackie | Oh - From: I am a Movie Star I felt frightened for you. what excellent writing. Have confirmed for me that I don't want to go there. Hope things brighten up a bit. Keep well |
| 12th December 2006 doe | - From: I am a Movie Star You look very believable as a sailor. Have not seen your blog for few months . Glad the native and wild life did not kill you. Hope to read more of your adventure. |
| 12th December 2006 Chris Bowden | Guessing Kenya left a bad impression!? - From: I am a Movie Star Good to hear from you again mate, sounds like you're doing well on the travels, though I'm guessing you're not such a big fan of Kenya, let's hope Uganda impresses you more!! Zanzibar is still good, though I can't wait to leave, it's getting claustrophobic, I'm worried Lamu will be worse!!!! Keep adding the comments mate, enjoying the read. Chris |
| 12th December 2006 Conor | Many Equators later - From: I am a Movie Star Hi Ben, Good to read the update. The movie-star thing sounds like a laugh - when do we get to see you on the big screen? Hope the back wheel stops giving you trouble, and Uganda treats you well. Its been a stormy and wet few weeks in Ireland, and reading of warm roads and zebra crossings gave my morning a great lift. Take care, and have a beer on me. C |
| 4th December 2006 Jobbaciy | great - From: Vastness and Emptiness I love the way you put things about Ethiopia.....your words, and your struggle in the middleth of other's land crying for justice...u're the man! |
| 27th November 2006 Sammie | Feel like I "know you" - From: My 30th Birthday Happy B'day Ben - - just finished reading your journal via the internet - I'm from Sydney, Australia and you have touched my heart - the way you write and tell us your stories, we feel like we are there with you - you should write a book - You are a strong warrior that's for sure - well done - very proud of you and your persisistance in your riding and I don't even know you! - Kind regards - Sammie - Female - from Sydney |
| 25th November 2006 MIssMBNA2005 | well well well, the boy done good! - From: My 30th Birthday Just like that, Im there, with you, the writer, the dreamer, and still, just Ben. To say im impressed would be the biggest understatement I've ever made. You should publish all this when you get back, make a million and give me a cut for suggesting it. A belated happy birthday. Stay Happy, stay loose. Jen xx |
| 24th November 2006 ty laten | John Cale? - From: My 30th Birthday not John Cale from VU!That is some other fine man cause John Cale was in LA. |
| 8th November 2006 EthioBoy | Sad Sad man - From: Vastness and Emptiness You are one sad sad person. It sounds like you are lost and don't really know who you are. A trip won't give you the answer. YOu need to face your fears and tackle them. You r comments aboout Ethiopa are not nice at all and you should have known that you were going to the 3rd world. Things are differmet there. People there are in the state they are due to the unfair rule the IMF and World bank impose on them.You are one sad man and i feel sorry for oyu. |
| 17th October 2006 Mot | Not entirely blameless - From: Rushing for a birthday I'm not entirely convinced it was totally MY cock-up ..... really. |
| 17th October 2006 anonymous | Hey?! Where's all the sexy pix of me? - From: My 30th Birthday Ben?! There's far too many photos of me in those hideous shorts and not nearly enough of me looking proper fly! Still, nice montage of us lads and lasses having a ball on the beach. Keep drinkin' you work shy loafer!!! See you in the New Year ........ Love Mot (AKA Tom - not complicated!) |
| 14th October 2006 Cyndi | Finally, friends - From: My 30th Birthday Ben, Happy Birthday! As I watch along as your journey unfolds, it's great to see you with some friends, beers and enjoyment in your heart. I've followed you from the beginning (via internet and in spirits.) I'll be in Tanzania in a few months myself and hope to be in the little unknown places too... stay strong. |
| 14th October 2006 cath/cate/bud | what the fuck - From: My 30th Birthday what the fuck am i doing. it's saturday night and i'm sat in bed with a textbook, whilst you're on a beach with john cale. please god someone/anyone save me..... |
| 14th October 2006 Kylah | - From: Rushing for a birthday Happy Birthday!! |
| 14th October 2006 Jade | Happy Birthday!! - From: My 30th Birthday Hey Ben - Happy Birthday! Looks like you're having a great time, and so are we, reading about all of your adventures!! When you make it back to the UK I will buy you a celebratory beer! |
| 14th October 2006 Mark | - From: Rushing for a birthday Happy Birthday, Ben! Looking forward to your next entry... |
| 13th October 2006 Nicky | - From: Rushing for a birthday Fantastic read, keep it up. |
| 12th October 2006 Mina | Blogs and self-timers - From: Rushing for a birthday Ben - what a sublime picture of you and Harvey. So relaxed, caught unawares in a moment of rest. Then I realize: you POSED for the picture. With a self-timer! Oy! It seems starting a blog was only the first step. Love your writing - the details are wonderful. Waiting for the birthday mishaps. |
| 12th October 2006 Goodsue | Ah, to be 29 again, or even 30 - From: Rushing for a birthday Your blog was the lead one on travelblog's homepage, and I just started reading. You're a good writer. I was all involved with your trip. Happy birthday! A stranger.... |
| 10th October 2006 martine | - From: "So how do you know this word "Chai" then?" As usual, nice to read your 'cynical' traveljournal, especially while I'm at work. If I ever go to Afrika, it will probably be in one of those organized truck tours! ;-) Take care! |
| 10th October 2006 Mingalaba | Journeys to remember - From: Simply the hardest, most uncomfortable, most painful, most agonizing, most miserable and most mentally draining journey I have ever done At least it will make a good story for the grandkids. Are you resurrected 'Tiger Snake' lately? Still rate Sihanoukville - Trat by suicide mission boats as my worst ride to date. Any plans post South Africa? How about a quick bike trip up the west coast of Africa? |
| 8th October 2006 Mot | ... and what a birthday it was! - From: Simply the hardest, most uncomfortable, most painful, most agonizing, most miserable and most mentally draining journey I have ever done Sounds like a really shitty journey lad! Mind you, I imagine it all seemed worth it when we were sitting at the pool-side bar at Wet N' Wild in Dar, drinking Kili and hearing 'African Queen' for the first time! Good luck for the rest of the journey - and for the record i had a fantastic, non-theme-park-themed' holiday!! Your best buddy, Mot. |
| 7th October 2006 Mark | - From: Simply the hardest, most uncomfortable, most painful, most agonizing, most miserable and most mentally draining journey I have ever done Wow man, you are seriously a hardcore traveler. Loved that last post. |
| 6th October 2006 Cyndi | Inspiration - From: Simply the hardest, most uncomfortable, most painful, most agonizing, most miserable and most mentally draining journey I have ever done Ben, As I plan my trip to Arusha, Tanzania, I research, research, research, and yet find your travel blogs to be the most "real" experience / advice / "research" there is... I know you don't want to hear it now, but years from now you'll laugh and be thankful for the experience. And if not, well I thank you, you're a determined - couragous man. Keep writing. Keep living. Thank you. |
| 5th October 2006 Conor | Well earned beers - From: Simply the hardest, most uncomfortable, most painful, most agonizing, most miserable and most mentally draining journey I have ever done Ayup Ben, great description of the Moyale road - it was painful just reading it! Hope the birthday beers in Zanzibar were great, and your mate enjoyed his non-theme-park holiday. I'm sipping wine in Cape Town now, flying home next week. Best of luck on the road,and may the wind always be behind you. C |
| 22nd September 2006 anonymous | - From: Vastness and Emptiness Hey man - I'm really enjoying your blog. I notice you haven't posted in a while. I hope all is well with you. |
| 5th September 2006 Swati | - From: Vastness and Emptiness Chanced upon your blog...and was hooked. haven't read anything more honest...and heart felt in a long time. all the very best in your journey ! |
| 5th September 2006 Mingalaba | Meaning of Life - From: Vastness and Emptiness What is it all about eh? Life, love, work? I'm sure by the time you reach South Africa you'll have it all figured out. Please enlighten us when you do. |
| 1st September 2006 Eric | Well-captured - From: A City Full of Crazy People Ben, I am back in Pittsburgh, USA, but the chat photos capture the Baro life perfectly. Best wishes on all the remaining miles. Look me up when you're ready to cross North America.... or want to bike through the Andes. Eric |
| 24th August 2006 Sarah | - From: Vastness and Emptiness I stumbled onto your blog..absolutely amazing. Glad you decided to "cop out" and start recording your journey...you never know how your own experiences contribute to others...I'm just outside of Cape Town now, but by the time you get here I'll be long gone... Best of luck along the way and I love the Douglas Copeland quote. |
| 22nd August 2006 J | - From: Vastness and Emptiness Ben the Theroux book you mention reading in this instalment is it Paul Theroux- 'Dark star safari'. If it is, his observations on how aid agencies have nurtured and are sustaining the 'gimmie culture' in Ethiopia are similar to yours from the descriptions you've given of your experiences. But not to worry, those aid worker dudes must feel pretty righteous, and also look good flying up the highway in their fleets of shiny new 4WD's. Your soon to be in Kenya, where you'll cease to be a farangi and become a muzungu (same thing), haha |
| 19th August 2006 J | nice one - From: Give Me Money Theres someting Id like to ask you Ben.......... "Got a spare pen on yer????????" haha I laughed all the way through that epic and funny as fuck blog, Ive been in a similar situation after two months in East Africa feeling worn down with the fact if your a European in Africa you look to most llike a walking wad of dollar bills, and thats just the way it is. Thinking back I felt jaded myself by the end of that trip and started to treat everybody I met with suspicion, I should have looked after one or two people better with a tip who were genuinely helping me out but I didn't at the time because I was feeling pissed off from being ripped off elsewhere. Nice to see you can admit you've taken a bit of public transport or a lift when its been offered to you, obviously no extreme sports big ego with you, good luck to you, keep it up its great reading. |
| 17th August 2006 Martine | - From: A City Full of Crazy People Ciao Ben. Hairy man! Looks a bit od, the short hair in combination with the beird. How philosophical will you let it get? I know some wise men with a beird up to the ground...! I'm letting my hair grow as well, but not the beird. :-) Painted it black as well, so a friend the other day called me Nina Hagen :-S So, where are you up to now? Where's this trip taking you? All the way to South Africa? It's great to read your adventures. Especially being at work in the public library! There's nobody having questions at this hour, so nice to chitchat on the computer. Take care! By the way... I'm having a weblog as well (http://halftien.blogspot.com). However it's in Duth, so you can only watch pictures. |
| 16th August 2006 J | - From: Sand and Sadness Theres a female Irish travel writer, I can't remember her name right now, I had one her books in which she wrote about her times cycling across Africa, she was in her sixties I think when she did this, so its an impressive feat in it self. I think it was about 10 or 15 years ago. I read the book about five years ago but I didn't finish it, it was a bit dull, no humour. You my friend can write better than her and she was a published author. Have you thought about using this blog as notes and trying to make a book out of it when your journey is over? |
| 24th July 2006 Mot | Frightening! - From: A City Full of Crazy People Frightening! Really frightening just how much you look like your old man when your whacked out of your mind on chat!!! Nice haircut though la, see you in a few weeks ......... |
| 24th July 2006 Vlad | Hello Africa - From: A City Full of Crazy People After reading this i am very happy you're still alive! Out here we miss you and talk about your ride. Most people would think you're nuts and they'd be right! It is probably your great adventure! Lot's a love! |
| 22nd July 2006 Mingalaba | Hair Cut - From: A City Full of Crazy People Nice hair. I'm sure it adds to the effect for the 'Whacked out of his mind on Chat' image..... |
| 21st July 2006 Robin | - From: A City Full of Crazy People Nice haircut! |
| 19th July 2006 Victor | great to hear from you ! - From: A City Full of Crazy People Hey ben ! You really got me curious about those leafs... Other news from here, really quick because I don't have the time. Will write more, I promise. So ... Teo came and moved in with Vlad, these days they are strating to rearange the apartment. Next week I'm moving in with Andrea at my mom's house. She's still in Israel, in NORTHERN ISRAEL. She won't come back even though the whole family said she's crazy. I don't know if you're aware but in the last week a war broke out there and the Hezbolah are bombing northern Israel. Yesterday a Katiusa fell next to her building, broke their glases and killed a man. Anyway.... I started playing with a very popular artist here, new in business. He's very succesful and we have concerts arranged all summer long. It's a good thing I'm starting to make some money out of it after all.... Will write more some otyher time. That's about all I can think of right now. Bye and take care of yourself ! |
| 5th July 2006 Mingalaba | Alive - From: Give Me Money Ben, always good to hear from you - next time can you warn us when you're leaving civilisation for weeks on end. I was really worried this time..... Still reading this episode but it's making me feel I should be doing more with my life at the moment than sitting on a beach day after day. X |
| 26th June 2006 Em | Yet another gripping chapter - From: Give Me Money amazing ben, my heart is in my mouth half the time - brill i would have been exactly the same with the kids! love you take care em xxxx |
| 23rd June 2006 cyndi | a free- good book - From: Give Me Money I feel like I should be paying you to read these blogs! They hold the excitement of a thriller, the emotion of a romance (*minus the romance, hehe) and read better than many published travel books I've read. Thanks for keeping us up to date on your journey. I always look forward to reading the next one! |
| 23rd June 2006 Tom | Alright badger - From: Give Me Money Bloody hell thats long. Took me an hour to read them both. Glad to hear you are still alive and I hope you enjoy Addis. Makes my voyage sound pretty soft. Peace out. Tom |
| 23rd June 2006 ConMel | clap clap - From: Give Me Money Man, that is some blog......I sat glued to the moniter for half an hour, feeling frustrated at times, and exhilerated at other times.....much like your journey through Ethiopia. Well done. Conor. |
| 22nd June 2006 maz | - From: Heat! man, i thought you had died or something! seriously |
| 8th June 2006 ben | I am a live - From: I am an ignorant tourist Thanks for caring, its very sweet. I have been out of the technological world for a while, but don't worry I have the most rediculously long blog to type up very soon. |
| 8th June 2006 Kylah | - From: I am an ignorant tourist I think we're all starting to get worried. Ben where are you? Has anyone heard from him? |
| 2nd June 2006 Jade | ?? - From: I am an ignorant tourist Not that im worried, but havent heard from you in a while Ben!! No updates on your blog either... ok, yes, Im worried. Anyone heard from him? |
| 25th May 2006 maz | - From: I am an ignorant tourist hey man you haven't posted in ages, are you still alive? |
| 24th May 2006 Martine | No 'luie donder' anymore - From: I am an ignorant tourist Every journal you write is like a new chapter of an exiting book. Who would think that you've once been called 'luie donder' (which means as much as lazy bastard!) ;-) As matter of fact, the lazy basterd here would be me! My only trip this summer will be to Toscane- Italy and that will be by car, just so I can be more lazy. Respect to you! Take care and keep writing! martine |
| 13th May 2006 maz | - From: I am an ignorant tourist hey man, are you still alive? It's may 13th today and you've not posted in two weeks, what's up?? |
| 7th May 2006 Cyndi | Educate me - From: I am an ignorant tourist As I prepare for my trip to Africa I thank kind people like yourself who help educate me (beyond what any book can tell me) although I'm sure I'll feel the same sense of detachement and ignorance. You're helping educate people though- remember that :) |
| 4th May 2006 Salih Abdalla | One of few places ...... - From: I am an ignorant tourist That's Sudan my friend. I bet, if not of the long war in the South, Sudan would’ve taken the whole African continent under its generous wing. |
| 2nd May 2006 maz | - From: I am an ignorant tourist Was everything in your tent safe when you returned? Did you lock it before you left? |
| 2nd May 2006 maz | - From: I am an ignorant tourist Are you finding it really hot there at present or is it bearable? I didn't think this journey which you are making was possible by bike; sure as hell would be something if you proved me wrong! |
| 30th April 2006 Marysia | - From: I am an ignorant tourist How come they didn't want you to pay for everything? Was it the matter hospitability or something else? I regret you didn't attach the photo of Tea Lady! |
| 28th April 2006 maz | - From: To Remind Me I'm Alive... You are crazy man! |
| 24th April 2006 Jade | - From: To Remind Me I'm Alive... Hey Ben, glad that you DID cave in and start blogging - your trip is amazing, be fucking careful though!!! That last entry had me on the edge of my seat, wondering if you were gonna pull through - then i remembered you wrote the blog, so there was my answer :) Sorry about there being no beer (my worst nightmare ever, as you know) - when you get to the UK i promise to buy you a can of Special Brew. Keep writing, im loving it! take care, jade |
| 23rd April 2006 Vlad | Ride on, bro! - From: To Remind Me I'm Alive... It seems your disease is a transmisible one. In a week or so i'll start a journey myself. Only through Europe by train and hitch hiking and not alone ofcourse, but still - the virus i probably got from you! You are our champion!!! In other terms, remember Steaua and Rapid and Dinamo in the UEFA Cup? Well, i don't know if you care pr if it is much of a news for you, but Steaua is in the semifinals! With its 5 mil budget it is fighting Midlesbrough for a place in the final. |
| 23rd April 2006 Tom | - From: To Remind Me I'm Alive... Badgers |
| 21st April 2006 Matt | picture - From: Sand and Sadness Hey! i have the same picture as your first one of this page- if i'm not wrong its just after the summit from the climb out of Dahab? Me and my dad did a Newiba-Sharm ride one year, alot of fun. Man did you pick a bad time of year to be in the Sinai- spring is always full of sandstorms and lots of wind. To bad you didnt get to enjoy that decent after Dahab, i remember screeming down there at 78kph- that got the juices flowing! Hope the rest of your trip sees you safe and you have a wonderful experiance in Africa! I am definatly envious of your journy! |
| 4th April 2006 Corporate Whore | Kudos - From: Mountains, Tombs and Evil Children I've really enjoyed re-reading your blog. You are a great storyteller and your posts have a natural, easy rhythm. You've captured those definitive moments we all seem to go through (e.g., entrusting your passport to strangers). I'm very much looking forward to reading about your travels, especially as I won't be hearing them in person anymore. Hope Africa kicks your a** (in a good way) |
| 3rd April 2006 Marysia | - From: Temples, Tombs and Thoughts... Benny, "and with all the 60 hour weeks, the The Nile at Sunset Full Image work bullshit and blatant depression I suffered, I got through I made my dream come true." you're my inspiration. Really. Have faith in people. I beleive deeply that you'll come back safe and sound, even if Sudan is as dangerous as you say... people like you, even strangers. I think I've told you that before... |
| 3rd April 2006 Victor | Congratulations man ! - From: Temples, Tombs and Thoughts... I'm very happy for you, and I'm also glad you're entering Africa with a good spirit. Keep cycling, enjoy the ride and take care of you ! Best of luck ! |
| 3rd April 2006 Mina | Off to Africa - From: Temples, Tombs and Thoughts... How freaking cool is that? I'm jealous of the challenges that await you and look forward to reading about your travails & adventures. That is if stone throwing xenophobes don't knock you out first. |
| 26th March 2006 Marysia | I love it! - From: Sand and Sadness Ben, when I read your journal i feel as if i was there with you, watching all the things you've done! I've just seen Cast Away with Tom Hanks ( I bet you've seen it) and I thought about your Harvey (Hanks had a ball called Wilson) I love the way you write. You made me laugh and feel sad, you even made me feel sand under my feet! Don't give up Benny! You've gone so far! PS Did you make a picture of that FUCK IT written on the sand? That would be just great ;) |
| 21st March 2006 Vlad | monster - From: Sand and Sadness Yes, my friend i still keep at it. Because you fighting the war i would never dare to conceive! You are doing this alone. 9 wholle months! You have to be very big or very wrong in the head. Up here we still love you, mate! |
| 19th March 2006 Torben | Great debut! - From: Sand and Sadness Glad to see you are finally online... now we can call it quits - just dropped 8LE in internet time! Cheers mate, Torbs PS - Your write-up re: Sinai crossing is magic... makes me feel like a big softy for doing it on 50 horses! |
