My personal discovery of travel was a pivotal moment in my life. It shaped my trajectory, with a strong desire to explore the endless possibilities that await out there in the world. A never-ending treasure trove of experiences, culture, memories, and people. To see the world, in my view, is the greatest blessing I’ve been given. With such passion ever evolving, it became my aspiration to share it with others.
At 20 years old, I ventured off on my first extended trip with friends. A whistle-stop train tour of Europe over three weeks. Fate was sealed from that time. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to have travelled to over 30 countries, with a preference for lingering longer in each to know it deeply and explore hidden gems beyond the well-trodden path.
With this mindset, I undertook a one-year stay in Brazil, during which time I explored more than half of its states. Always yearning for more, I've yet to tire of Brazil’s bounty of beautiful locations. It’s the gift that keeps on giving. Whether awe-struck at the sunset behind the towering dunes of the Lençóis, foot-tapping to samba in Rio, or observing elegant jaguars in their natural habitat, each moment is one I cherish.
During this time, I also had the pleasure of discovering the joy that’s Argentina. A diverse country with much to offer, my recent Audley trip greatly expanded my knowledge and appreciation for it. From its remarkable monolithic glaciers to its wonderful wines and cosmopolitan cities, I’m already anticipating my next visit.
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Q&A with Sean
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
Watching the sun set over the vast, towering sand dunes in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil, is a true spectacle and my most cherished travel moment. After venturing deep into the white desert by quad, I parked in the perfect spot with a deck chair in tow and took in the surrounding beauty. As the sun descends here, the landscape is painted in the most vivid colours: shimmering blues and greens of the lagoons shade grey; the gentle wind blows sand over the edge of dunes to greet the fiery orange glow on the horizon. Really like no other place on Earth.
What tips would you give for people who want to visit Brazil & Argentina?
Both countries are very culturally rich, and proud of it. I suggest exploring some of the most iconic and enduring pieces of media from each destination before you go. The music culture in Brazil sways from samba’s lively rhythms to bossa nova’s breezy, breathy vibe, and beyond, encompassing an eclectic blend of traditional styles and Western music in its popular music. Argentina, likewise, has some of the most prolific songwriters in the Spanish language, a real treasure trove for lovers of poetry or those who find romance in a slow tango. There are also numerous examples in cinema that have crossed over internationally, which is one to consider for a potential long-haul journey. Touch down on location with perspective and context. Locals love to share their culture with visitors, so this will open the hearts of Brazilians and Argentines alike.
Which book, film, or artwork captures your specialty destination the most?
As my first window into the soul of these countries, music has been a guiding light and one of the most evocative ways to experience Brazil or Argentina before setting your feet on the ground. For Brazil, I would highlight the album Fôrça Bruta by samba icon Jorge Ben as a definitive listen. It effortlessly blends local rhythms with impassioned, authentic soul music and elegant orchestration. Much has been said about the album in Brazil since its release, with a bit of mystique around its night-time sessions and impromptu jam sessions that have become legendary as ‘lightning in a bottle’ moments caught on tape. It conjures up vivid images of Rio in its various stages: sun-soaked festivities on the beach, reflective moonlit evenings from the balcony, and the sway of a smooth tropical breeze throughout.