About David Smyth

One of the most surreal experiences I’ve ever had was kayaking alongside a mother humpback whale and her calf in the icy waters of Greenland. Sitting in a tiny kayak, just centimetres above the water, while these gentle giants surfaced beside me was exhilarating and humbling. In that moment, I realised I was not observing nature. I was part of it.

The Himalayas keep calling me back. I’ve trekked through these incredible mountains in Nepal, India, and Pakistan, and each journey has been completely different. Of course, the scenery is spectacular, but what stays with me most are the people. The warmth, generosity, and resilience of the mountain communities are every bit as memorable as the towering peaks.

While travelling through India, I had the privilege of spending time with rescued baby elephants as they enjoyed their daily bath. Watching them splash about, play with one another and show off their cheeky personalities was pure joy. It’s one of those experiences that leaves you grinning long after it’s over.

I’ve always had a fascination with history, so standing in Iraq at the place believed to be where Alexander the Great spent his final days was moving. It was one of those moments where history suddenly felt real. You find yourself imagining the events that unfolded more than two thousand years ago and appreciating just how many stories these ancient landscapes hold.

One of the greatest gifts travel has given me is the chance to meet people whose lives are completely different from my own. Spending time with members of Pakistan‘s transgender community challenged a lot of assumptions and reminded me that the best travel experiences are almost always about human connection.

Some experiences deserve to share a place on the list. Climbing Cotopaxi pushed me physically and mentally in ways I hadn’t expected, while standing among Emperor Penguins in Antarctica felt almost dreamlike. Both reminded me that the world’s greatest experiences often happen at the edge of your comfort zone.

I’ll never forget standing just a few metres from a massive bull elephant in Tanzania. You suddenly become very aware of your own heartbeat. We simply stood there, looking at each other, before he calmly wandered off. It only lasted a few moments, but it’s one I’ll remember forever.

People often ask me what it’s like to see mountain gorillas. The truth is, it’s not just about seeing them, it’s about sitting quietly in their presence. Looking into the eyes of a silverback, you can’t help but recognise just how closely we’re connected. It’s an emotional experience that stays with you.

People joke about getting the “Drake Shake” when crossing to Antarctica. Well… I got the full version. Experiencing a Force 15 storm was equal parts terrifying and exhilarating. It also gave me an enormous respect for the power of the Southern Ocean and the sailors who have crossed it for centuries.

I’ve been lucky enough to take part in Buddhist ceremonies in both Nepal and Bhutan. Instead of being a spectator, I was welcomed in. Sitting quietly alongside monks, listening to the chants and watching centuries-old traditions unfold gave me a sense of peace that’s difficult to describe.