It wasn’t until I was 25 that I first stepped foot in Southeast Asia, landing in Bangkok with nothing planned except a hostel for three nights. Six months later I had explored and navigated seven different countries and my love for travel had been truly ignited.
From the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, to elephants in Chiang Mai and the beautiful beaches on the islands, Thailand amazed me from north to south, opening my eyes to experiences I never thought I would have.
Fast forward nearly ten years and I found myself being able to enjoy that all again with Audley, and now I can’t wait to be a part of creating similar memories for others.
Q&A with Joe
Where would you love to travel next?
Having visited most Southeast Asian countries, I would love to travel to Myanmar (Burma). I missed out on visiting in 2016 when on my first backpacking adventure. Ever since, hot-air ballooning over Bagan and the thousands of temples and pagodas remains at the top of my list.
Your best piece of travel advice
Go into your trip experience with a really open mind. If it's trying an excursion that might make you a bit nervous or a food that you never thought you would eat, give it a go as you might not be in that position again. It's better to say you gave it a go than miss out on something that could be incredible.
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
In Bangkok, I was told of a place called Bang Krachao, a jungle oasis which I didn’t ever feel I would find in a city as busy and loud. A five-minute boat ride to cross the river and it was like I was in a different city altogether. Known as the “Green Lung”, I found myself walking through the Sri Nakhon Park, a huge wetland full of wildlife and what felt a million miles away from the noise of Bangkok.