Welcome to my home country of England. A fitting place to start as in July or August of 2032 this will likely be the start of the big adventure. Not many people explore own backyard after all
Fast Facts
- Capital: London
- Population: 57.7 million
- Language: English
- Currency: Great British Pound
- Fun fact: Knocking on someone door and running away is illegal, however a lot of children when I was growing up played the game of knock knock ginger! Do kids still play this now?
Why This Country?
How well do you know your country? Can you write a travel book of everything about it? I really doubt anyone can, although you could have a good try. There is always something new to explore as the world is always changing. England is full of untapped places of vast untouched nature, big bustling cities, quiet idyllic villages, with quirky and unusual sights thrown in just for good measure. So why not explore more and see if it would be viable for Erika and me to travel long term with low risks. It’ll be a big change to both of us and I think making new routines in a somewhat familiar environment would be better than just jumping off into the deep end so to speak.
3 Quirky UK Adventures I Can’t Wait to Try
Cuddle a Cow
Isn’t this little fella cute and soft? Did you know you can actually give a cow a cuddle? As an animal lover, I think this would be such a unique activity and a way to feel closer to nature. Besides, how many people can honestly say they’ve cuddled a cow?
Puzzlewood
This is probably one of the more “touristy” things I want to do, but ever since I moved to Bristol and heard the name, I’ve wanted to visit. I’m not so much into the films shot there (and I’m not sure I’d even recognise them), but the forest just looks so magical. Apparently, you can even stay there! I’m curious how Erika will find it — she’s more of a city girl — but I’m hoping her little explorer side will come out. If not, I’m sure bribing her with cake at the café will help.
The Shell Grotto
One of my favourite childhood memories is collecting shells at the seaside. I never had enough to cover a sandcastle, let alone an entire underground grotto. The idea of an entire passageway decorated with shells feels so magical, and I’d love to explore it on a lazy afternoon by the sea.
Food I’m Excited About
- Colston bun. Even though I’ve lived in Bristol for almost 25 years, I’ve never actually tried—or baked—a Colston Bun. They’re such a part of local history, and it feels only right to finally give them a go. I’m curious to see how mine turn out!
- Shepards pie. This is hands down my comfort food. I won’t be making it this month, but it’s one of my absolute favourites. My gran used to make the best shepherd’s pie, and she always added mushrooms. That might not be very traditional, but it’s the taste of home to me. Served with peas or carrots on the side, it’s the kind of meal that just feels like a hug on a plate.
I hope you’ll enjoy discovering what England has to offer alongside me. It’s easy to overlook the places in your own backyard, but I’m excited to start my adventure here — exploring the quirky corners, hidden gems, and everyday magic that make England special. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to share both the little homegrown adventures and, eventually, the bigger journeys around the world.
Couch Potato to World Getter 
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