David Gordon | Director
David is an Adventurer/Explorer who has led expeditions in South America, Asia and Africa since 1986. He’s been over the Andes, through the Amazon and across Patagonia many times, he led an overland expedition from Kathmandu to London, followed the Mekong River through Thailand, Laos and Cambodia and explored the African countries on the shores of Lake Victoria. David has a passion for wholesome and responsible travel which is reflected in his community and environmental project development work. He is currently a Director of VentureCo Worldwide, experts in adventure volunteering, he is chairman of The Book Bus Foundation, a British charity dedicated to improving child literacy in the developing world and he is President of Ecuador Tierra Viva, a foundation that offer specialised advise and funding to counteract deficiencies in water supply, agricultural skills and educational facilities. David is a member of the British Mountaineering Council, the British Canoe Union and is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.
“My expeditions and adventures over the past 25 years would mean nothing to me without the satisfaction of giving back to communities in need. For me VentureCo combines adventure with support for a worthy cause; it’s the ideal combination for people who care about themselves and who care about the world. “
My favourite country: Peru was my first true overseas destination and I have spent years and years of accumulated time exploring the country from top to bottom. That there’s so much more to see keeps drawing me back. The people, the culture, the history, the landscapes and a national ethos that declares “todo es possible” create a potent and highly addictive blend.
My favourite site: That’s a tricky one! My top three are Machu Picchu in Peru, Petra in Jordan and Angkor Wat in Cambodia. For pure atmosphere and cultural richness, Angkor Wat is ahead (at the moment) but Machu Picchu’s attraction never fades, even after more than 30 visits to the site!
My favourite means of travel: I’ve chosen two answers to this question. First is the sea kayak, a supremely manoeuvrable craft that opens up the world of coastal exploration. The Book Bus is my second choice, there’s no better feeling than stepping off the Bus into a sea of curious, expectant, and excited children; the exuberance of the children in Zambia has to be seen to be believed.
My favourite Trek: The 9 day route from Choquecarao to Machu Picchu. Choquecarao is Machu Picchu’s little known sister site and is separated from her better known sibling by 2 huge river gorges that cut through the immense Andean landscape. Following Inca trails still in use today was tough on the legs but a real pleasure every step of the way.
My favourite encounter: Love them or hate them, the taxi drivers of the world are often your best introduction to a new destination. So many of my first impressions have been shaped by taxi drivers that I now use them to glean information about the real issues affecting a country as well as its visitor attractions. For me, a trustworthy taxi driver has been the best “fixer” in any place I’ve been to.
My favourite Food: I do like my food and I really enjoy eating in South East Asia. There’s nothing complicated about the cuisine but the depth of flavour means each meal is very different and eating becomes a highlight of the day. Thai cooking is renowned of course but I find that Cambodia is now producing some of the best food in the region.
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