In I've Always Paddled My Own Canoe, author Meurig Jones recounts how in 1971, he embarked on his journey of a lifetime, leaving the quiet Welsh village of Llandinam to explore the world with travel companions he met via an advertisement in the Guardian newspaper. Meurig's adventure begins in London, and then on to Dover, where a ferry to Calais takes him and his mates across the Channel to a world of adventure. Each mile trekked deepens their experiences as they navigate not just geography, but also newfound friendships. Meurig's odyssey spans Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Australia, revealing a host of diverse landscapes and cultures. He explores historic cities, admires landmarks like Isfahan's grand square, and navigates vibrant Tehran. His adventure takes him across Afghanistan's enigmatic landscapes, weathering sandstorms and visiting ancient cities like Herat and Kabul. In Pakistan, he becomes immersed in local customs amid mounting tensions, and ultimately arrives in Delhi, India during a period of turmoil before concluding his journey in Australia. Both a travelogue and a chronicle of self-realisation, I've Always Paddled My Own Canoe is a captivating blend of adventure, challenge, and, ultimately, self-discovery.