Although I thought i had slept a little on the plane and stayed up most of the evening, the familiar long haul jet lag took effect at 5am. Breakfast had the familiarity of Cuba but I knew this type would become all to regular in the coming weeks (fried eggs, toast, some fruit, coffee). I remember a friend who had done South America many years ago saying to me she craved cereal when she got back to the UK. I know now what she meant, although if i was desperate ...

A little excitement sprinkled with apprehension greeted my time of awakening. I had arisen early many times before in anticipation of going to the airport but of course this time was different. The backpack replaced the usual suitcase and the Zara holdall replaced with a Karrimor all weather backpack worn on the front. Yes of course I can rough it (well a little anyway!!) but I had not felt like this since I first left Australia almost 13 years(!) ago. Adios my l...