5 Questions With… Johnny Ward of Aspiring Backpacker and One Step 4ward

Have you ever thought about backpacking around the world?  Have you ever wanted to travel around the world but didn’t know where to start?  If you answered yes to one or both of these questions, then you should definitely check out Aspiring Backpacker.  The site was launched to help aspiring backpackers and adventurous travelers get up-to-date information, advice and inspiration from experienced world travellers/backpackers.

I personally love traveling and although I haven’t been to many places, I definitely have the strong desire to visit new places and experience cultures that I’m not already familiar with.  So it is with great appreciation that I introduce my readers to Johnny Ward, founder of Aspiring Backpacker and One Step 4ward.  He has been traveling to different places across the globe since 2006 and has a ton of experience and advice he can share with his readers.  I’m so pleased that he has agreed to participate in this edition of “5 Questions With…“.

Let’s get this started!

It’s a huge decision to choose to backpack or travel around the world.  What made you decide that travelling the world was something you wanted to pursue?

I think I’ve always wanted to do it. Us Irish are from such a secluded country, it’s in our blood to spread our wings! From 13 or 14 on though, I heard about gap years, and I was set. As soon as I realised I could make it my lifestyle, there was no turning back.

What is one of the most important things that an aspiring backpacker should know? 

That fear is normal. It’s ok to be scared but it’s not ok to let fear stop us from following our dreams. Embrace the fear, use it and keep moving forward.

What are some of the most interesting places you’ve visited or things you’ve done while travelling?

Wow, that’s a tough one. From over 100 countries, it’s a difficult call! Maybe summiting Kilimanjaro, or cage diving with great white sharks in South Africa? Tribes in Papua New Guinea? I’m stumped!

What’s next?  Where would you like to go that you haven’t been to yet?

South America is calling. But before that a trip through Central Asia with Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan etc – that’s my next epic adventure.

What is the one thing you can’t live without when travelling?

My MacBook pro and iPhone – with my online business, I can’t afford to be without them. And without my business, I have no more travels! aaaaagh!

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Thanks, Johnny!!

You can learn more about Johnny and his adventures by liking his Facebook page ~ facebook.com/onestep4ward or following him on Twitter @onestep4ward

Check out my other “5 Questions With…”:

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5 Questions With… Cherrye of My Bella Vita
5 Questions With… Diana Spechler
5 Questions With… Megan of TorreBarolo
5 Questions With… Anna of La Dolce Vita di Pizzo Visitor Guide in Calabria
5 Questions With… In Italy Tours
5 Questions With… Johnny Ward of Aspiring Backpacker and One Step 4ward
5 Questions With… Jonny Blair of Don’t Stop Living – A Lifestyle of Travel
5 Questions With…Alissa DeGrazia
5 Questions with…Grazia Ietto-Gillies, Author of By The Olive Groves: A Calabrian Childhood