Interview with Will Dunn
Travel Titbits are thrilled to present our interview with Will Dunn, aka Worldwide Will, after his cycling adventure from Slovenia to the Croatian Islands with a 25 year old, Yugoslavian bike.
How did you come up with the idea for this cycling adventure?
Well actually I was talking to a good friend, Ross, about our adventures, and he mentioned a long bike / camping trip he did in Slovenia. I was inspired, I dreamt of making it to the Croatian islands from Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital (many miles inland). Bicycles have always been a dormant passion since my first, a Christmas present many years ago. At that point the only two wheeled transport I had was a twice stolen, three times re-painted, rusty old Yugoslavian bike. Undaunted, I set about trying to repair it, but was unable to get it to roadworthy condition (having been humiliatingly laughed at in the bicycle repair shop). Eventually the opportunity found me: another good Slovene friend, Jaro, offered me a battered old red beauty. I knew immediately that the 'Rog' bike (Yugoslavian of course), was the one. I spent a month or so preparing it and I was ready...
What was your most memorable experience?
Definitely leaving the village of Stalcerji (Slovenia) full of coffee and wine, Upica (the bike) having been repaired for the second time that day by staggeringly generous locals. I have tears in my eyes right now just reminiscing about the absolute kindness of people in those villages. It was truly moving and unforgettable.
What were your thoughts when the pedal snapped so early on?
"Oh ....!! I'm not gonna make it, maybe I am crazy for even trying."
I was really angry with myself for trying to bend the pedal back to its original position. At the time, I thought it would have been much better to have riden cautiously to the next bike service stop. However, I would never have experienced that amazingly hospitable repair. On an adventure, the only thing one can predict about these mishaps is that they will happen.
Do you have an essential piece of kit you always travel with?
A lucky minature bear from my mother, and my wits.
Are you planning to do another adventure?
Yes! I'm planning to buy an old 'Yugo'-slavian car for a Trans-Balkan Trip.
What inspires you to take on these challenges?
Pure passion for travel I guess, combined with lots of physical and mental energy. The spirit of adventure involves facing fear and adversity with a positive attitude, and embracing the challenge of the journey.
What piece of advice can you pass on to other adventurers?
Expect mishaps and challenges. Whatever happens, its all part of your adventure.
Will Dunn - writer for InYourPocket, essential city guides to over 23 European countries. Please visit www.inyourpocket.com/slovenia
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