Q&A with British explorer Levison Wood

Having served as an Officer in the British Parachute Regiment, where he deployed in Afghanistan fighting against Taliban insurgents in Helmand, Kandahar and Zabul, the infectiously charismatic British explorer and journalist has embarked on a number of expeditions across five continents, travelling and working in over 80 countries – the latest being his widely documented attempt at being the first person to walk the entire length of the Nile.

YOUR FAVOURITE COUNTRY FOR ADVENTURE?

Afghanistan. The Wakhan corridor in the northeast is wild!

YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO UNWIND?

Thailand. I love going back to KonPhang Ngan. Or Ibiza for a party.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

You can’t beat London. It’s full of inspiring people to learn from. And when it gets too much, I’m inspired to leave.

A FAVOURITE IMAGE OF YOURS?

It’s a photo I took of the Mundari tribe in South Sudan herding cattle. There’s something very biblical about it as the smoke rises from the campfires and warriors stand in silhouette against a setting sun.

FAVOURITE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE?

Travel doesn’t get better than walking down the Khao San road in Thailand taking in the sights smells and street food. It never tires.

TOP SURVIVAL TIP?

Carry cigarettes to give to gun toting militiamen in war zones.

FAVOURITE QUOTE?

“Rules are for the guidance of the wise and the obedience of fools.” – Douglas Bader

FAVOURITE BOOK?

The Odyssey.

MUST-HAVE TRAVEL ACCESSORY?

Keeping track of my travels is essential and I’ve always got my Leica at hand, accessorized with a stunning strap from Ghurka USA to keep things dapper.

WHO IS YOUR ICON?

My explorer icon is Ernest Hemingway. He had a great beard.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE ALBUM?

Anything from Phil Collins.