Are You Coming Back?

If Not, Settle Only for the Best

I am presently reading a series of books written by Graham Frith, or Grum, as he is widely known. These books detail the story of his 900 day, 47,000 km epic ride around the world on his bicycle, Fiona. I am generally not keen on travelogue-type books, but I am enjoying these books immensely.

Each book is based on Grum’s regular blog posts. These posts detail his daily experiences, both the good and the not so good. There were many of both.

Anyway, there was a phrase that Grum wrote that hit me, and that phrase was:
“Are you coming back? If not, settle only for the best.”

When I stop and think about it and recall times when I have travelled in the past, then I can remember occasions when I have not settled for the best.

Of course, what defines the “best” will vary greatly from person to person. In Grum’s case, the best had nothing to do with what was expensive (he was trying to do the whole trip for about $20 per day) but rather what was special. I, too, like to think that best means special. For instance, best is
experiences that I will treasure forever.

So, where is this little piece going?

Just this.

The best, the special, is most often found off the main road.

Most popular does not necessarily mean best.

The best cannot necessarily be measured in dollars (though it may be).

The best often entails extra effort to obtain/see/experience something.

So, thinking about your next holiday, or just a roadie.

Ask the question – “Are you coming back?” If not, why not research those places or experiences where you are that may be best? There will most likely be no other time.

Travel slower. Dive deeper into regions. Don’t go so far. Research more.

Maybe even find places like River Valley.

Brian Megaw