Marianne backpacked in Europe long before backpacking had been invented. It was difficult to buy a backpack in those days so she used an old one found in the attic. She thumbed her way through the…

Marianne backpacked in Europe long before backpacking had been invented. It was difficult to buy a backpack in those days so she used an old one found in the attic. She thumbed her way through the British Isles and learned English at the same time. She then replaced her rucksack by a husband who insisted on carrying their two small suitcases. She kept a list of what to take. If any item hadn't been used it was crossed out. The result was that the suitcases became smaller and smaller. Once her two children were old enough she whisked them off on 'public transport' holidays in Greece, Turkey, Morocco and other Mediterranean counties. Her husband followed wherever they went, still carrying the suitcases. She doesn't drive, only rides her bicycle and takes public transport wherever she goes. Marianne is a teacher of English in higher education, which means long and frequent holidays. Pastimes include writing, editing, travelling, learning languages and photography. She now looks forward to the days when work no longer interferes with travelling.