A Conversation Over Generations
During the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, I had the privilege of sitting down with a group of incredible travellers, each with a lifetime of unique stories to share. While I’d just finished chatting with younger adventurers, this conversation flipped the coin – these travelers are proof that age is just a number when it comes to exploring the world.
Let me introduce you to four inspiring people who embody the spirit of lifelong adventure.
Meet the Travellers
Ann Lunden is a Swedish orthopaedic surgeon turned ship doctor with years of experience travelling the world, often under extraordinary circumstances. She’s navigated everything from cruise ship emergencies to psychiatric patient repatriations, all while maintaining a deep curiosity about the world. “Isn’t it fantastic to get full salary for traveling all over?” Ann quipped as she shared tales of navigating airports with stretcher-bound patients.
Jane Eagleson, a New Zealand native now based in New York, has explored the world through the dual lenses of veterinary science and personal curiosity. From being one of the first tourists in Cambodia post-Pol Pot to working on rabies vaccination campaigns, Jane’s perspective is as unique as her experiences.
“There were nine people at Angkor Wat back then. Now? You need AI just to remove the crowds from your photos”.
Jeff Cacy, born near the Arctic Circle in Alaska and now living between Seattle and Palm Springs, has used a career in aviation to fuel his wanderlust. Jeff’s been to an astonishing 197 countries, all while balancing a love for cold climates and warm adventures.
“Growing up in Alaska taught me to fly everywhere – it’s second nature”.
Janette Heitz from Kentucky has spent five decades exploring over 100 countries, cycling across continents, and volunteering to improve communities. Her tales include cycling from Moscow to St. Petersburg and across the Sahara, where she narrowly avoided land mines. “I don’t need to go back to Morocco,” she said with a smile, recounting an unnerving encounter during Ramadan.
Ann’s Unbelievable Career:
From Crisis to Curiosity
Ann’s career in medical transport introduced her to places many people only read about. She recounted traveling with psychiatric patients who were calm one minute and unpredictable the next. “I always made sure to sit between the patient and the aisle,” she explained, ensuring no mid-flight chaos.
Her time as a ship doctor was no less dramatic. Ann shared stories of treating cruise passengers with fragile health, particularly Americans who’d chosen a floating holiday as their version of rehab.
“They’d bring their discharge summary and think a cruise was a good idea. Sometimes, I’d think, ‘My goodness, you left the hospital a week ago!’”
Jane’s Early Journeys:
Chasing Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
Jane’s travel journey began long before the internet made planning easy. In 1989, she chartered a plane to Cambodia, borrowing money for what turned out to be a life-changing trip.
“It was so expensive, but when I saw Angkor Wat with just a handful of people, I knew it was worth it.”
Her curiosity also took her to the Stans on a train journey from Moscow to Tashkent.
“There were barely any foreigners then – it was like discovering a hidden world.”
Jeff’s Path to the Globe:
Adventure Born in the Arctic
Growing up in Alaska, Jeff knew from a young age that he wasn’t a fan of long, dark winters. His solution? Travel.
“I’ve always loved summers in the north, but the cold and darkness pushed me to explore beyond.”
His job in aviation gave him the perfect opportunity.
“Traveling for work never felt like a chore – it was my gateway to the world.”
Janette’s Story:
The Challenges and Thrills of Cycling Across Continents
Janette’s passion for cycling has taken her to extraordinary places, often in extreme conditions. One of her most memorable adventures was cycling across the Sahara Desert.
“It wasn’t just the heat – it was the uncertainty,” she said.
“I remember coming across a warning sign for land mines. It was a stark reminder that the Sahara isn’t just sand dunes and sunsets.”
Janette has also pedalled her way through historic cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, creating connections with locals despite language barriers. “Cycling forces, you to interact in ways you wouldn’t otherwise. You have to ask for directions, accept help, and sometimes even share food with strangers.”
Her story of cycling during Ramadan in Morocco still brings a wry smile.
“I accidentally offended a group of locals by drinking water during the day. They were fasting, and here I was, chugging water in the desert. Lesson learned: always check the local customs.”
The Evolving Landscape of Travel
One thing these seasoned travellers agreed on is how much travel has changed over the years. Ann reminisced about the days before smartphones and online booking.
“You had to rely on guidebooks, maps, and a lot of asking around. Sometimes it led to wonderful surprises, but other times it was a logistical nightmare.”
Jane chimed in with her experience in Cambodia.
“Back in the 1980s, there was no infrastructure for tourism. Now, it’s bustling. You have to compete with selfie sticks just to see the temples.”
Jeff noted that while travel is easier now, it’s also less personal.
“You used to have real conversations with locals. Now, everyone’s glued to their phones – even the tourists are taking selfies instead of soaking in the moment.”
Tourism’s Double-Edged Sword
The group also discussed over-tourism, something they’ve all seen first-hand. Janette reflected on her time cycling through Morocco.
“The influx of tourists has brought development, but it’s also diluted the authenticity of some places.”
Ann agreed, adding that medical tourism is now a booming industry. “People travel for surgeries and end up treating recovery like a vacation. It’s bizarre but also reflective of how globalized healthcare has become.”
Jane had an optimistic perspective:
“While over-tourism has its challenges, it’s also brought attention to preserving heritage sites. Angkor Wat, for example, wouldn’t have the resources for restoration without the tourism dollars.”
Age Is Just a Number:
Staying Inspired to Travel
One of the most inspiring takeaways from this conversation was their collective attitude toward ageing and adventure. As Jeff put it:
“Your body might slow down, but your curiosity doesn’t have to.”
Ann emphasized the importance of staying active:
“I still walk for hours when I explore new cities. It’s the best way to soak up the culture and burn off all those local delicacies.”
Jane added that travelling at an older age has its perks.
“You’re wiser, more patient, and less worried about ticking off every box. It’s about depth, not speed.”
Janette summed it up beautifully:
“Age gives you perspective. You don’t just see the world – you appreciate it.”
Travel Tips from the Masters
Before our conversation ended, I couldn’t resist asking these seasoned adventurers for their best travel tips. Their answers were as practical as they were inspiring.
Ann’s Tip: Stay Adaptable
“You have to be prepared for things to go wrong,” Ann said. “Flights get delayed, plans change, and sometimes you find yourself in a country where no one speaks your language. That’s part of the adventure. Stay calm, smile, and adapt.”
She also recommended packing light. “As a doctor, I’ve seen too many people injure themselves carrying heavy suitcases. A good backpack and comfortable shoes can make all the difference.”
Jane’s Tip: Stay Curious
Jane emphasized the importance of curiosity. “Don’t just visit the tourist hotspots – wander off the beaten path. Take a local bus, eat at street stalls, and talk to people. That’s where the real magic of travel happens.”
She also suggested learning a few basic phrases in the local language. “Even if you butcher the pronunciation, people appreciate the effort. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way.”
Jeff’s Tip: Stay Connected
Jeff’s advice was to build connections, not just itineraries. “Say yes to conversations with strangers. Some of my best experiences have come from unexpected encounters. People are usually more welcoming than you think.”
He also stressed the importance of technology. “Use your smartphone wisely. It’s great for maps and translation, but don’t let it replace actual human interaction.”
Janette’s Tip: Stay Active
For Janette, physical fitness is key. “Traveling can be exhausting, especially as you get older. Stay active at home so you can keep up with the demands of exploring new places. Walking, cycling, or even yoga can make a big difference.”
She also encouraged travelers to slow down. “Don’t rush from one destination to the next. Spend a few days really getting to know a place. Quality over quantity.”
What’s Next for These Adventurers?
As the conversation wound down, I asked them what was next on their travel bucket list. Ann is considering a trip to Antarctica.
“It’s one of the last great wildernesses. I want to experience its raw beauty before it changes too much.”
Jane is planning a journey through Africa.
“I’ve worked there before, but there’s so much more to see. The landscapes, the wildlife, and the people – it’s endlessly fascinating.”
Jeff has his sights set on the Pacific Islands.
“I’ve been to so many countries, but that part of the world still feels like a mystery to me. I want to dive into its culture and history.”
Janette is looking forward to more cycling adventures.
“I’m thinking about Patagonia or maybe the Silk Road. Anywhere that challenges me physically and mentally.”
Final Reflections
This conversation reminded me why I started traveling in the first place: to meet people like Ann, Jane, Jeff, and Janette. Their stories are a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and a good sense of humour.
As I left the café in Bangkok, I couldn’t help but feel inspired. These travelers have shown that it’s not about how many stamps you have in your passport – it’s about the memories, the connections, and the lessons you bring back.
Ready to Explore the World?
Whether you’re 25 or 75, it’s never too late to pack a bag and set off on your own adventure. Take a page from these extraordinary travelers and embrace the journey – because the world is waiting.
The next interview in a week
In the following interview episode, I’ll be sitting down with Randy Williams – or as some people might know him, R Dub! He’s a radio veteran, the man behind the global radio phenomenon “Sunday Night Slow Jams”, and, oh yeah, he’s also the self-proclaimed Sultan of Slowjamastan.
We’ll talk about his fascinating journey from being a 15-year-old DJ to someone who’s travelled to every single country in the world. And, of course, his hilarious and unique project – creating his own micronation, Slowjamastan.
That one’s full of stories, laughs, and a glimpse into a truly extraordinary life. So, don’t miss it!
My name is Palle Bo, and I gotta keep moving. See you.
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