A former homeworker who interviewed Race Across the World winner Caroline Bridge is looking to speak to travel agents to discuss the positive benefits of adventure travel on mental health.
Newcastle-based Michael Gillies left the travel trade industry in July 2023 after he attempted to take his own life. In his recovery, he discovered the benefits of walking outdoors, hiking and adventure travel.
He told Travel Gossip: “I signed up for an organised hike through the Hike with Mike foundation. I then went to the Peak District, then the Lake District, with another charity called Black Dog Outdoors, and that was when I really got hooked.”
Caroline’s candid words about feeling serious and anxious on the show resonated with Michael, leaving him inspired to start his interview series.
“I messaged Caroline via Instagram and said how inspiring it was to see her talk about her reasons for joining the show, and being so open about needing a change and feeling lost,” said Michael.
“We got chatting, and she said, ‘If there’s anything I can do to help, I’d be more than happy to’, so I asked if she wouldn’t mind being interviewed.”
He posted the interview on his Instagram page, where he has also posted interviews with Ben Spencer, the first person to wheelchair across the Alps, and Paul Harris, who has walked the coast of Britain twice.
Michael, who now works for his parents’ business outside the industry, is looking to interview adventure-focused travel agents as part of his hobbyist series.
He said: “I’m looking to interview agents who are adventure or outdoor-focused. It would be great to hear any customer testimonials that really stand out, or to learn about their business and what they can offer customers seeking adventure, and how they can help them.”
He wants the series to highlight the positive impacts of adventure travel on mental health, and says it’s an opportunity for travel businesses to explain how they can help customers.
Michael added: “I would also love to hear from suppliers to personally learn about what they offer, such as adventure or expeditions, and more importantly, how it makes their customers feel and the memories they create. If it encourages people to get out there and explore, promoting adventure, I want to hear it and share it.”