Follow travel author Robert Martineau on a 1,000-mile solo trek through West Africa. Travelling through Ghana, Togo and Benin, sleeping in villages or on the side of paths he will cross deserts, rainforests and mountains, he will encounter voodoo ceremonies and witches camps, and meet shamans, priests, herdsmen and kings. But this is more than just a long walk. This is a modern day pilgrimage, a young man’s journey in search of a new life, and an escape from the monotony and aimless floating of his old one.At the age of 27 and trapped in a job he hated, Rob ran away from a successful career as a lawyer to spend five months in the African bush. He sought answers and guidance, a freedom and connection to nature he had lost and long craved. But he also discovered hard truths about himself and his place in the world.This is an extraordinary account of his adventure, but it is also a story of his inner journey and the wisdom he learned along the way.Highlights include:·       Taking part in a traditional voodoo ceremony·       Visiting a ‘witch camp’ in northern Ghana·       Witnessing a traditional Adae festival in the Ashanti heartlands·       Discovering the fascinating culture and beautiful landscapes of Ghana, Togo and Benin·       Being inspired to change your life and go on your own modern-day pilgrimage wherever that may beThe book of this story is called Waypoints: A Journey on Foot, which was recently cited by the Washington Post as one of the best travel books of 2021. You can also connect with Rob directly on instagram, twitter and facebook at @rob_martineauBecome a Patron of the show and get ad-free episodes and membership to the exclusive Explorer’s Club with monthly travel vouchers sent directly to your inbox and much more. The show is free but costs time and money to produce. If you enjoy it and think that our message of love for the outdoors, caring for this planet and living your life to the full is a message worth spreading then thank you for whatever you can do. https://www.patreon.com/Armchairexplorerpodcast Today’s episode is sponsored by wayfarer vans - the backpacker’s version of camper vans. Kick-ass van conversions at literally ¼ price of other people, that are designed to de-clutter your adventure so you can be in the moment, taking in the wild spaces your van has delivered you to.  www.wayfarervans.com Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook or head over to www.armchair-explorer.com to find more background information on this episode