Well, it's T-minus 10 days now and we're down to the final strokes...

So, the die is cast; there's no turning back now, and the final stages of preparation are underway. The trip has it's own unstoppable momentum now and we'll need to work hard to wrestle it to the ground.

We've sketched out our itinerary, drained the Frequent Flyer bank and assembled all our gear - well, most of it. Any flaws in the Plan will shortly be revealed and we'll be in it. Fantastic!

The time for reading travel guides, contemplating the possibilities, twists and turns across enigmatic Patagonia are over. Dreams of the gaucho, tango, whole cooked cattle and life on the road are about to become reality.

Did I mention we were "travelling light"?? My Nephew Felix thought this meant he was going to be limited to just two suitcases, however once I explained what I meant by "bring just the clothes you wear and make sure you can haul a sleeping bag and backpack all day" the trip took on a whole new complexion for him. True to form, Adam has sailed through the preparation and contemplation phase virtually untouched by the experience; I expect he has a vague idea of where South America is on the globe ("that way -->") and the fact that we are going there "soon" for "some time". Even chaperoned shopping at the camping store was testing for him.

Essentials are:

- maps and compass

- toothbrush

- sleeping bag and tent

- woolly jumper and sensible walking shoes

- a fistful of pesos

Stay tuned...