The Travel Dude’s Adventures

Welcome to The Travel Dude’s Journey

Kia Ora!

I’m Mark, also known as The Travel Dude – and I’m beyond excited to have you here!

I’ve always found it tricky to write about myself.  But please allow me to take you on a quick tour of my journey so far and how The Travel Dude came to be. Ready? Let’s go!

From Singapore to New Zealand: A Travel Transformation

I was born in Singapore while my dad was stationed there as a British Royal Marine. My childhood took me to the UK.  I have great memories of growing up there – lots of friends, a love for sports, and a pretty solid time throughout my school years.

Later, I made the big move to Auckland, New Zealand, where I’ve been based ever since. But honestly? I consider the whole world my home.

The Moment Travel Changed Everything

It wasn’t until I sold my trusty VW Golf and jetted off to Spain with six friends (The “Magnificent Seven”) that I realised how much travel would mean to me. That trip flipped a switch. Travel became more than a holiday.  It became a passion, an obsession, and ultimately, a way of life.  And an endless journey of discovery.

Travel, for me, is like flipping through the pages of an endless book.  Each destination a new chapter filled with surprises, lessons, and moments that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

The Birth of The Travel Dude

What started as a humble blog documenting my New Zealand and Australian adventures has now grown into something I never imagined. The Travel Dude is my personal travel diary, a space where I share everything – from wild stories to practical tips – about the incredible places I’ve explored.

Around the World in Footsteps

From soaring over New Zealand’s majestic peaks in a tiny Cessna to walking the spiritual ghats of Varanasi, India, travel has filled my life with stories.

I’ve snorkelled the Great Barrier Reef, climbed ancient Mexican ruins, and cruised crocodile-filled rivers in Queensland. The world’s most iconic spots – like the Taj Mahal and Jaipur’s Pink City – left me in awe, while hidden gems like Fiji, Israel, and Gibraltar took me by surprise.

And what’s next on The Travel Dude’s radar? Maybe sipping coffee in a Venetian café, chasing the northern lights in Iceland, or hiking through Patagonia’s wild terrain. Stay tuned!

Let’s Travel Together!

Let’s explore the world together! Whether you’re looking for hidden gems, travel tips, or just a bit of inspiration for your next adventure, join me as I share it all.

Fun Travel Stats

  • Number of unforgettable adventures: Countless
  • Number of flights: Too many to count!
  • Lost luggage: Twice (but found again, luckily!)

Here’s to the next adventure – see you on the road!
– Mark (aka The Travel Dude)