I want to share some thoughts about this trip because it was unlike any others I have been on, particularly given my circumstances at the time. If I had been more ‘sensible’ and looked for work, it wouldn’t have happened. If I had done it after saving more money, it would have been very different.

The nature of this trip meant I spent substantial parts of it alone, often waiting by the roadside for a lift, in my tent in unknown surroundings, or walking through nature without deadlines or a destination to head for. Uncertainty in travel, as well as in life, can be anxiety-inducing. In this context, the uncertainties helped create a sense of freedom. I was going wherever I chose in those three weeks.

There were also moments that I felt lonely. I was lucky to find a few people along the way I could have great and memorable interactions with, which I will never forget. Yet, at times, I would go a few days with conversation limited to half an hour or so in a car, before being dropped off in the middle of nowhere, with very few people around.

My experience in Tasmania was a learning curve for me. Partly because of the specific events on the trip. On the beach with the lone penguin, meeting the local Dave, he talked to me about anxiety he struggled with most of his adult life. Until one day, around ten years ago before, he let it go. Walking along the beach, he put aside his worries and found peace within himself. He genuinely seemed contented and a far cry from someone who was weighed down with worries. And it wasn’t because a life event, or particular action or behaviour. He came to accept himself.

That has stayed with me. It doesn’t mean I have rid myself anxiety – far from it. But it helped me realise that I have more control over my state of mind than I may have realised before. I had been anxious in parts throughout my time in Australia, often when I had little to no money and few job prospects. But it never stopped me from seeking more adventures, as I did here in Tasmania, rather than looking for work and financial stability.

I took this opportunity to hitchhike and camp around Tasmania at a unique time in my life – on a one-year visa in a foreign country. I may never have seen all those national parks, nor met all those interesting characters, if I hadn’t taken the risk. The lack of money, little planning, and general openness of the journey made it exciting to do.

I have continued to pursue travel where I can, but in my advanced years, I have sought financial stability. It may have taken an edge of some of the travels that I have done – I know now if I go on a road trip, I have a job to return to and I’m not down to my last few dollars (or pounds). It may not be as thrilling or dangerous, but it is no less enjoyable.

The reason I went to Tasmania was to explore the spectacular scenery, which I did, and continue to do in other parts of the world. Why it stands out from other trips is because of the novelty of it, and the challenges it presented. Looking back, that was part of the experience for me. It took me out of my comfort zone, physically and emotionally, away from convenience of modern life. And, despite all the difficulties, I managed to do what I set out to, visiting many of the National Parks of Tasmania. I left with a sense of achievement and self-confidence, along with memories of weird and wonderful times.