Been There!

Actually, it’s always been the opposite for me. It’s been the places I have been that have encouraged me to read or watch things about the country in question. For example, Japan, where I lived from 1995 to 1998, was an experience that was both extremely positive and extremely difficult. Since we left, Janet and I have watched the NHK channel, particularly the Sumo and Document 72 Hours. The latter of these is one of the best documentaries ever made anywhere. It is a camera crew set up in one place for three days where they get the most fascinating and sometimes moving reflections from people who go to the chosen place. If we hadn’t been to Japan I think it’s almost certain that we wouldn’t have done more than occasionally stumble across the channel. What we really enjoy is seeing places that we visited when we were there.

Australia is another great example. As well as being my favourite country it is also fantastic to see the scenery and the sports that epitomise our experience whilst living there. I love watching cricket from Australia, during the winter in the UK, especially the Big Bash and the Women’s Big Bash. One place I saw on television before visiting it was the Great Barrier Reef, and when I finally visited it a couple of years ago it was even better in real life.

Whenever I visit a country I am always looking for programmes or books that will take me back there.