Words: Patrick
(Photo credit: Tom McShane)
Anyone who tuned into Channel 4’s Walking the Nile earlier this year will, like us, be a massive fan of the star of the show, Levison Wood. A man with a determination that could crack granite, venerable ambition and an infectiously charismatic nature, we should follow his lead – in aspiration and in etiquette.
We’re sure you’ll agree that he’s the ultimate gentleman. But if you don’t, here are 8 reasons that will peel your argument like an orange.
CHARISMA
Levison spent a number of years as an Officer in the British Parachute Regiment, where he served in Afghanistan fighting against Taliban insurgents in Helmand, Kandahar and Zabul. Charisma goes with the territory, in spades.
EDUCATED
Education moulds the gentleman… Nothing screams of steely drive for lifelong learning more than an individual with a zest for adventure, who spends his time in pursuit of new horizons and experiences.
WELL-TRAVELLED
His passion for writing, photography and journalism has taken him to far-flung corners of the globe, from the streets of Baghdad to the mountains, deserts and jungles of Afghanistan, Syria, Pakistan, North and South Sudan, most of Sub-Saharan Africa, India, Nepal and South East Asia.
Someone with such a diverse travel portfolio is bound to be both interesting and interested. Plus, imagine the arsenal of stories he could share over a dram or two…
CONFIDENT
You can tell a genuine gentleman from a mile off by the way he carries himself, and everything about Levison’s persona separates him from the crowd. No arrogance, but admirable flair – and a wide smile to go with it. After a quick sweep-round the office, the consensus among the women about Levison is overwhelmingly positive.
FAMILY MAN
It was a lovely moment when, after an epic 3,750-mile 9-month yomp, Levison enveloped both his parents as they cheered him over the final metres. This is obviously a man of unfeigned morals, respect and loyalty.
COURAGEOUS
“Along the way I’d had some pretty close calls with snakes and scorpions and was previously attacked by bandits, but it’s different when there’s a guy high as a kite running at you with an AK47.” Need we say more…?
WELL-MANNERED
As we saw time and time again on Walking the Nile, Levison is a man of manners and generosity, always willing to throw himself into new cultures and situations.
MAN OF HIS WORD
A gentleman is known for his integrity – he follows through on his commitments. Levison said he would walk the Nile, and despite facing a number of adversities – including nearly being killed in South Sudan – he stuck true to his word and delivered.
Levison Wood, you’re our sort of gentleman.
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