Michele Ricucci is a very well-known and respected photographer and drone pilot. He has had photo exhibitions in multiple places around the world and the footage he gathers is simply fantastic.

‘The Gringo’s Tale’ is his first attempt at writing a book, and let me start my comments by saying that I hope it’s not the last.

Good photographers, to my mind, create pictures that tell a story with a magic blend of either subtlety or bluntness, drama and beauty. The very best seem to weave in an element of ‘clever’ that they see and few others do, until the photographer shows it to them. When I first heard of this book I wondered if Michele could create similarly impactful pictures with words. He can.

‘The Gringo’s Tales’ takes you riding over 9,000 miles across Mexico. Michele sets off with Roberto, a restauranteur friend from Italy, on two decidedly dodgy bikes. Bikes that ‘everyone’ was telling them not to ride across Mexico on. The point was that their budgets were tiny; that saying about tailors cutting their suits according to the cloth they have, came straight into my mind.

Michele is a man who when he made this trip had already bought a second-hand Honda XR 150 in South America and explored on it for over 21,000 miles. Oh, and I should mention that he didn’t have a bike license…

There are a series of layers to the book which kept my attention more than held. One of those is that he has a desire to see the world away from booking dot com and tourist sites. He’s driven to explore off the beaten track and to meet, to spend time with people who have no choice but to make life work with courage and ingenuity, the hard way, but yet have kindness and appreciation firmly in the front of their minds.

Michele is a man who spends less time worrying about how clean a place is but focuses on the point that there is a place to sleep. He’s a man who listens to advice, and then makes a plan to follow his instincts. Most of the time his instincts are both courageous, and spot on. At times they had me asking if he had all his marbles. But read on respectfully and full of hope.

Other than saying that his ‘word pictures’ are great!, I really don’t want to give more away about this book, or I am going to detract from the raw magnetism.

What I do want to say is that if you ride a motorcycle, you will be interested in this book. If you love to travel by motorcycle, you’ll be in awe, and yep perhaps horrified in sections. At others, you’ll be blown away by the stories – the tales of the unexpected, and the skill of the storytelling. I suspect you’ll end the book thinking , ‘Wow, what a ride.’

I had to have a long moment’s silence to let what I’d been reading settle in my mind. It still hasn’t. For sure it’s a keeper and I have no doubt that I’ll be reading it several times more.

Published in January, ‘The Gringo’s Tales’ is available from Amazon.

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So, for someone contemplating their very first trip – which might just be a weekend adventure a few miles from home – the whole idea of overlanding can seem pretty daunting. What many seem to forget, or conveniently ignore, is that the heroes of 50, 60, or even 70 years ago didn’t have access to the advanced technology and accessories on offer today. But they still embarked on the wildest of adventures and reached their goals, relying on sheer grit and a healthy dose of ingenuity.

In a funny sort of way, everything is arse-about-face. Take “First Overland,” for example. Six university students left London in two Land Rover Series 1s and drove all the way to Singapore. They crossed deserts, fought their way through jungles, and carved their own path where roads didn’t exist. The Series 1 Land Rovers they used had four-wheel drive, skinny tyres, and an electric winch. The teams relied on paper maps and compasses, cameras with film, some basic tools and the simplest of camp equipment.

Today, almost anywhere you want to go can be reached on paved roads. The vehicles the modern-day overlander has to choose from come with driver-assist systems, software to tune the technology for the terrain you want to cover, and there are no end of modifications to make them higher, wider, and even more powerful. We have sat navs, digital cameras, and phones that have more technology packed into them than the Apollo mission that landed on the moon.

All today’s technology would have been welcome when the roads ran out 70 years ago, and the simplest of vehicles of an almost forgotten era are still capable of taking us wherever we want to go today… albeit at a slower pace and without the luxury we have grown accustomed to.

The internet is a wonderful resource: type in a question about any topic and we are rewarded with no end of wisdom (some good, some not so). If you research gear for overlanding you can be quickly overwhelmed by the number of brands and products on offer, especially if you are new to the concept of overlanding.

And that brings me to the reason behind this article. Overlanding should be exciting; it should be fun. It shouldn’t be overwhelming or a financial burden, even less so if you’re just figuring out if this is a hobby you wish to pursue. So why not take a leaf out of a book written by one of the early adventurers? If they could go off exploring and overcome the challenges they met along the way, without all the bells and whistles available to us today, then what’s stopping you or I doing the same? Or, do we really need the latest, most expensive of everything to have a good time? I think not.

Richard Pape was certainly of adventurous nature. Predestined almost to accept the challenge to drive from the North Cape to Cape Town, a journey that was inconceivable at the time. And he did it in an Austin A90 for crying out loud—not even a 4×4. Oh my, he was faced with all sorts of problems along the way. And it’s in this spirit of raw, unadulterated adventure that we dive into his tale…

Richard Pape, that red-haired Yorkshireman with a glint in his eye and devil-may-care attitude, accepted the challenge and succeeded. Cape Cold to Cape Hot isn’t just a travelogue, it’s a full-throttle assault on the senses, a headlong plunge into the heart of adventure, and a bloody good read for anyone who’s ever felt the call of the wild. But more than that, it’s a stark reminder of what can be achieved with sheer grit, gumption, and a motor that’s more reliable than it is fancy.

Summary

The story begins when Pape’s just back from his “Cape to Cape” adventure, and he’s feeling it. Not all sunshine and roses, this homecoming. He’s restless, edgy, and London’s getting on his wick. This section lays down the genesis of the whole damn fool idea: a meeting with a Norwegian publisher, Reenskaug, who plants the seed of driving an Austin A90 from Norway’s North Cape to Cape Town. It’s a mad plan, fraught with peril, bureaucratic bollocks, and the kind of logistical nightmares that’d make lesser men weep into their whisky.

Turning the dream into reality is proving to be a right old slog. He’s battling bureaucratic red tape, dodging doomsayers, and trying to find a motor that’s up to the task. Then, just when things are looking bleak, a few glimmers of hope appear: Wakefield Oil throws him a lifeline, and a co-driver, Gunnar Melle, offers his services. But as any seasoned traveller knows, the road to hell is paved with good intentions, and Pape’s about to find out that the biggest challenges are often the ones you don’t see coming.

Character Analysis

Richard Pape: Still the same stubborn, driven Yorkshireman, but we’re starting to see the cracks in his armour. The weight of the task is bearing down on him, and he’s prone to bouts of self-doubt and the occasional whisky-fuelled rant. But beneath it all, there’s a core of steel that refuses to be broken.

Gunnar Melle: A tough Norwegian photographer with a reputation for courage. He’s eager to join the expedition, but Pape senses a clash of personalities. Melle’s ambition and drive are undeniable, but Pape’s not sure he can trust him.

Willy Krögenes: A young, enthusiastic employee of Wakefield Oil who offers Pape crucial support and assistance. He embodies the spirit of Norwegian hospitality and becomes a trusted ally in Pape’s quest.

Thematic Exploration

This section delves deeper into the themes of ambition, rivalry, and the challenges of leadership. Pape’s determination to be the first to drive from North Cape to Cape Town is unwavering, but he’s forced to make difficult decisions along the way, including the controversial sacking of Melle. The book also explores the importance of camaraderie and the bonds forged in the face of adversity, as Pape finds unexpected support from strangers and rediscovers the value of friendship.

But perhaps the most striking theme is the contrast between the simplicity of Pape’s gear and the over-engineered, marketing-driven world of modern overlanding. This journey took place in the mid-1950s, a time when 4x4s were a far cry from the luxurious, tech-laden beasts we see plastered across Instagram today. Pape’s Austin A90, for all its modifications, was still a relatively basic machine, relying more on the driver’s skill and ingenuity than on fancy gadgets and gizmos.

It’s a timely reminder that adventure isn’t about having the latest and greatest kit; it’s about having the courage to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the unknown. As Pape himself puts it, “I had confidence in myself and this matched investment in an ordinary stock model British motor-car.” He believed in the machine, but more importantly, he believed in himself.

Style and Tone

Pape’s writing remains as engaging and direct as ever, but there’s a growing sense of urgency and desperation. The descriptions of the preparations are vivid and immersive, and the dialogue crackles with energy. He’s not afraid to lay bare his own flaws and insecurities, making him a relatable and compelling narrator.

Key Excerpts

“The Cape to Cape trip is not feasible,” I blurted out. “Mechanically, physically and financially it’s asking too much of man and machine. Count me out; I quit; I fly to Cape Town; eat, sleep and save money.”* – Pape’s moment of doubt, highlighting the sheer scale of the challenge.

“If I can’t drive with you, Pape, I’ll drive against you all the way, and I’ll beat you.” – Melle’s defiant words, foreshadowing the rivalry that will drive him to pursue his own “Cape to Cape” adventure.

“I think you have a pretty good idea, Gunnar, that I propose breaking into the Sahara if no permission is granted, and if I can get to North Africa. What about you, and your wife and three kids?” – Pape’s willingness to break the rules, and the moral dilemma it presents.

“Britain during the war put everything mechanical and physical into the effort to ensure victory, and the independence of occupied countries. To-day, to assist Britain’s industrial export recovery programme, it is essential that friendly foreign states buy British, especially motor-cars.” – Reenskaug’s patriotic appeal, highlighting the economic and political context of Pape’s adventure.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths: The narrative tension is ratcheted up a notch, with Pape facing increasing obstacles and difficult choices. The character development is strong, and the descriptions of the preparations are fascinating. The added perspective on the gear and the contrast with modern overlanding adds depth and relevance.

Weaknesses: The sacking of Melle still feels a bit rushed, and it would have been interesting to explore that relationship in more depth.

Overall Impression

“Cape Cold to Cape Hot” continues to deliver the goods, offering a thrilling glimpse into the world of overlanding and the mind of a man obsessed with adventure. This documentation is a rollercoaster of emotions, from the highs of securing sponsorship to the lows of personal conflict and bureaucratic roadblocks. But it’s also a testament to the power of human ingenuity and the enduring appeal of a good, old-fashioned adventure. If you’re looking for a book that will inspire you to pack your bags, ditch the fancy gadgets, and hit the open road, then look no further. Just be prepared for a bumpy ride, and remember that the best gear is the gear that gets you there.

“Cape Cold to Cape Hot” is out of print, but you can find good used examples at very fair prices on the usual online platforms.

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The response? Massive. So we took the most important info, cut the fluff, and packed it into one clear, readable format.

Now it’s a free guide – available as PDF or ePub.

If you’re buying your first rooftop tent – or looking to upgrade to something that actually works for your setup – this guide is for you.

Because picking a rooftop tent isn’t about buying the flashiest model. It’s about getting the one that fits you – your vehicle, your trips, your way of travelling.

This guide is plain-speaking and practical. No sales pitch. No sponsors. No BS.

DOWNLOAD THE FREE GUIDE

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Summary

Without wanting to give away too much detail, Noraly sold everything (including her Ducati Monster) and flew to India, where her journey begins.

Now Basanti, her Royal Enfield Himalayan, may only have one cylinder, just over 400cc, and a modest 24 horsepower, but this story is by no means sloth-like. It’s a whirlwind of gargantuan proportions.

This epic adventure starts in the Himalayas on a rental. Then, there’s a traditional Indian wedding, new friends, the purchase of Basanti, and wads of cash being exchanged for a carnet in a restaurant. From that moment on, Noraly is driven by an insatiable appetite to explore and, more importantly, to keep going.

I’m not going to reveal exactly where she went, but suffice it to say that her anticipated end-stops became waypoints as the journey unfolded across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe—22,370 miles (35,792 km) in all.

What works?

Noraly is bold. And brutally honest. She tells a bloody good story. And she is humble. Before this expedition, her riding experience was limited to wrestling her Monster through the urban jungle. Boy, did she have a lot to learn when the asphalt disappeared.

People skills isn’t something you can just acquire overnight. Noraly is a natural, and fearless when it comes to opening conversations with people who speak foreign languages she doesn’t understand. We’re drawn right into the daily rhythm of her encounters.

The writing is almost conversational. If you could close your eyes, Noraly might as well be sitting in the same room, enthusiastically telling one story after another. And the conversational aspect takes the book to another level because, just as in real life, her mind occasionally wanders and she calls on the past to explain something that’s happening now.

Riveting? Hell, yeah. As I said, I opened my pre-pub PDF and read it from cover to cover.

Personal connection. Who should read it?

A good book can be informative, amusing, thought-provoking…it can be so much. Free Ride is all of that and more. But is it only for motorcyclists eager to become the next Long Way to Somewhere? I don’t think so.

I can relate to Free Ride because of its simplicity. We’re talking Royal Enfield one-pot thumper. Essentials for survival and a huge portion of enthusiasm. Where skill and experience were lacking, humour and endurance prevailed.

So who is the audience? Experienced and novice overlanders alike. But also anyone still stuck on the couch wondering how to start an expedition should pick up a copy of Free Ride—it doesn’t matter if you want to walk it, ride it, or drive it. Free Ride is inspirational because there are no hi-tech bells and whistles that cost an arm and a leg. Noraly buys a solid piece of simple engineering, dresses up in her riding gear, and goes.

Just to be clear, this book is about getting out and doing stuff with the bare minimum of everything. Ok, Noraly stays in hotels. But come on, in certain parts of the world, that’s the best choice for a solo female traveller on two wheels.

I drive a 1963 Land Rover. You can’t get much more basic than that. So when I listen to Noraly, I can certainly identify with her motivation.

Criticism?

I really can’t fault the book at all. Except that it ends with the promise of a future instalment, and I’m left waiting…impatiently.

This may be Noraly’s first attempt at putting ink on paper—her blog never achieved the success of her YouTube channel (2.8 million subscribers!)—but it works. The prose is honest, compelling, and refreshingly free of kerfuffle. So no. No criticism.

Bottom line?

I can’t say much more without giving anything away. So, if adventure and travel inspire you and you enjoy a good read, buy Free Ride. Then clear your schedule—you won’t want to put it down.

ITCHY BOOTS

ISBN-13: 978-1668092491

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In this wild ride of a compendium, twenty intrepid authors strap you onto the pillion of their own escapades, delivering a whirlwind of experiences that leave you wiser in the chaotic embrace of our cultural kaleidoscope. These are not just stories; they’re raw, unfiltered glimpses into the unknown, fuelled by a rabid curiosity and a relentless desire to strip away the sometimes misleading veneer that popular media slaps onto reality. Prepare yourself, because these candid narratives challenge you to see our colourful world as it is—messy, brilliant, and utterly human.

Just as the chapters unfold a tapestry of experiences that illuminate the rich diversity of Asia, each story resonates with a universal truth: travel shapes us. These tales will likely urge you to step beyond your comfort zone. You’ll be inspired to seek out those fleeting yet profound connections that make travel more than just a series of destinations. They remind us that every encounter, every smile from a stranger, is a thread in the intricate fabric of our shared humanity.

So, settle in and prepare for a journey that promises to awaken your senses and maybe even spark your own curiosity about the world around you. Each experience captured here is a reminder of the beauty that lies just beyond your doorstep, waiting for you to explore.

WHERE TO BUY

SAM MANICOM

AMAZON PAPERBACK

AMAZON KINDLE

BARNES AND NOBLE NOOK (EBOOK)

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HOW IT ALL BEGAN

René and his best friend, Boris Eckstein, make a point of living life to the full. Kindred spirits who still manage to approach ambitions and challenges with adolescent energy and enthusiasm.

I have yet to learn the hows and whys, but René and Boris came up with the notion to distill their own schnaps. Whereas some may have thought the idea a little hair-brained, the two soon attended a distiller’s course, not far from Lake Constance. However, they quickly learned producing schnaps would consume more time than they were prepared to sacrifice for what was, after all, a hobby.

Undeterred, they weighed up the pros and cons of some alternatives and eventually set their sights on creating their own gin. Long story short, the first batch of 30 bottles arrived in time for a pre-Christmas tasting with friends and the consensus was unanimous. René and Boris weren’t allowed to keep such a remarkable beverage to themselves and the first orders ensued.

London Dry Gin paved the way for their premium Barrel Gin, which we will feature separately. But they weren’t going to stop there and, after extensive talks with their distiller, whiskey and rum joined the lineup.

No. 224—MEANING AND VALUES

224—today, tomorrow, forever. On the one hand, an acronym drawn from the respect and loyalty that bond René and Boris. On the other, 224 stands for an exclusive range of products designed for posterity.

Crafting small batches of gin, rum, and whiskey means that each is a very personal interpretation of mood and taste.

Upholding an exclusive brand entails disregarding typical commercial aspirations of high-volume sales through mainstream outlets for a mass market. Instead, the objective is to supply limited quantities for a discerning community.

RUM—AGED 8 YEARS

A quick glance of the bold label confirms I’m holding an exclusive bottle of rum that has aged for eight years:

Batch number: 1/2023
Bottle number: 259
Volume: 350 ml
Alcohol / volume: 50%

EYE Held against the light, the reddish glow is reminiscent of wild honey. Slowly tilting the glass, it took a moment before legs began to form and slowly extend downward—a sure sign of its full-bodied character.

NOSE Hosted in an old-fashioned tulip-shaped glass and warmed by my hand, the rum unfolds the complexities of its aroma which include cinnamon and wood.

PALATE Whereas some beverages can become aggressive and lose their flavour with increasing alcohol volume, No. 224 is smooth, ever so slightly viscous, and with delicate hints of dry dates, caramel, and the aforementioned cinnamon. The finish is long, warm, and slightly spicy.

CONCLUSION

No. 224 is neither an everyday rum, nor one to use as a base for cocktails or long drinks. Savoured neat, this rum delights as an aperitif, a digestive, or casually with your inner circle of friends.

No. 224 Rum is only available from selected retailers. To purchase a bottle, reach out to René and Boris via their website.

€50 | 224GIN.COM

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Fay’s career spanned the mid-20th century and what I love about the book is the incredibly detailed bibliography and chronology of notes – at the back of the book. I am now in the process of going to the London Library to research all the bibliography.

I actually know little about Speedway and the bikes she rode. The Douglas bike that the author said, ‘she handled with power and grace,’ and other race accounts are detailed, so, perhaps I must take note of the details and think how it must have been to be at those race meetings and ignore the idea he writes as a chap, which of course he is!

I am still to continue reading this book. It will one of those I will use as reference for when I take to a motorcycle this year and just ponder about how Fay Taylour would have tackled the journey and what she would have worn. I might not be Queen of the Speedway, but I will most certainly be the Queen on my adventure.

Panther Publishing – ISBN – 09547912 – 4 – X

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Whichever story you choose from this sublime storyteller you will be most amused on every page turn. This one, my damsel in distress, we find the Earl of Mashmoreton’s lively daughter thinking she is love with Geoffrey Raymond but along comes along a cheerful American song-writer George Bevan with just one meeting with him when she climbs into his passing cab to escape her pompous brother – wait are we already confused? Good, this story gets increasingly entwined and you will simply have to read it to know what on earth I am talking about.

There’s a butler a page, an aunt and of course the father who – surprisingly – or perhaps not so – stays in his garden, gardening whilst the whole farce begins to take shape. What happens at the end you may ask? I shan’t tell you. A lot happens before the end happens – is all I shall say. P.G Wodehouse is necessary for the avid traveller. Short stories to let you escape from wherever you are. Best to find him in a second-hand bookshop. If you discover a first edition – at a decent price. Bag it, it is Priceless.

Everyman Classics – ISBN – 978-1-84159-124-7

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