Hello, my name is Tom, and I am in my second year now of blogging in Silver Queer Travel Light. I am permanently living in Norway. I have aimed to write one blog each week. However, I do not write when on the road, but some pictures will be posted on Facebook while travelling.
I started this blog at the end of the pandemic, so some of my early posts were written long after I had travelled. Travelling is a great passion for me, and even though I am still working full-time, I try to visit at least five to six new countries every year.
I have a comfortable and hassle-free life. Sometimes, I need some hassle. I need to see people who do things differently from me. When I travel, I see many ways to live life. This gives me new energy, and when I come home, I enjoy my everyday life more.
Silver Queer Travel light: Silver Queer says it all I guess, to most people, so yes, I am gay. However, I don’t think I am a usual gay traveller. Several of my later trips have been to less Gay-friendly countries. Still, I have met some charming people who struggle in oppressive countries and still try to live as good a life as they can.
Travel light: This is also straightforward, but I could explain. On most of my trips, I only travel with hand luggage, a small backpack I can bring into the cabin. This makes the journey smoother and more environmentally friendly, and I have nowhere to store things I would like to shop. I do not mind walking, so sometimes from a station to the hotel can be a long walk, but with the backpack, that’s no problem.
My primary aim is to inspire you to consider travelling independently; it is not as scary as some think. It has truly changed my life. Solo travel can be challenging, but it builds confidence and gives positive energy. The freedom to travel as you please at your own pace means you can be more spontaneous.
I started travelling in my early twenties, mainly in Europe and North America; however, a long-term relationship and self-employment meant that travelling to new places was not a top priority. When I became single again, I realized that the whole world was there for me to explore.
For 30 years, I have been looking for someone to join me on my hike up to Uhuru Peak Kilimanjaro, but at age 55, I could not wait any longer. I booked with an agency and had the experience of my life in New Year 2019.
The more you pay, the less you experience real life, so I do not frequent the most expensive restaurants or hotels. I love to taste the local food and their traditions.
I like to visit big cities and small villages and hike in the mountains to explore the world’s different cultures. I love architecture, religious buildings, towering castles, and ancient ruins.
Variations in trips and destinations are essential for me, and I try not to fall into the influencer trap. Of course, I want to see some of the world’s most spectacular and famous places. Therefore, I guess you will sometimes experience Instagram-able pictures like the one below. Although I want to call myself a traveller, I will always be a tourist and a visitor to a foreign country.
The UNESCO world heritage list is an excellent resource for planning a new trip.
I will also write about trips that I take with a tour operator. Having company on some longer hikes is practical, and a guide is required.
I love classical music and work in the theatre; therefore, I like to explore the arts and local performances during my adventures.
It would give me pleasure to inspire you and be your guide!
