How I did it: I registered for the trek at Global Adventure Challenges and paid my deposit. Then the hard work began, i chose the charity I was walking for and then started to fundraise, and to train, both of which weren't so easy whilst working full time. I had to put the trip back 6 months as my job commitments changed and I never actually thought that I would get there. Then all of a sudden it was here and I was off! It was so daunting setting off on my own to spend 10 days with people I didn't know and to put my fitness levels to the test. I had heard stories about the height of the wall and how in places it was very narrow! I didn't know how the flight would affect me and was concerned that I wasn't fit enough for this trek. I spent alot of my own money to actually get there and to prepare, i was worried about how this would impact on me financially when i got home. My family have hardly seen me for a year since I was out walking all of the time! I wish I could have raised more money for the charity....Cascade, but every penny counts doesn't it? I also got myself fit and got to know my Mum who died 40 years ago next year. Each step on the wall was an absolute joy, though it hurt physically at times. I got to know some amazing people and an amazing country. I learned so much about the Wall, about China and about myself. Thank you to all involved who made this the absolutely perfect experience it was!

Lessons & tips: Train. Walk and gently push yourself to your limits.
Fundraise in a group if possible. As an individual it is tricky as you tend to have to rely on the same people all the time for support.
Walk with an open heart and mind.
Trust yourself and others.

Resources: Global Adventure Challenge - great organisation and fantastic staff who made the trip a success.

Other people on the trek. Great people, walking with courage and determination, and with open hearts filled with love.

Oct 19, 2010, 06:49AM PDT | 0 comments | 18 cheers