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Going the Wrong Way

By: Chris Donaldson
Narrated by: Ben Watt-Doak
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Summary

“I was 21 and wanted to go ‘somewhere’ for ‘some time’ and, well, for ‘something’!”

Driven by a desire to break free from his mediocre, middle-class existence and escape the Belfast (IRA) “Troubles” of the 70’s, Chris Donaldson strikes out on his café racing Moto Guzzi on a cross-country roadtrip of self-discovery.

But when the Iranian revolution stops the planned motorcycle trip to Australia, he switches gears and begins a 33-country, 50,000-mile odyssey across Europe, Asia, and the Americas including 10,000 miles on an ocean-going racing yacht.

As Chris leaves the “Belfast Troubles” behind, he creates his own trouble. Along the way, there are formidable road blocks: trigger-happy soldiers with AK-47s in war-torn Africa, getting bogged in the Sahara Desert, waves the size of Everest that threaten to sweep him overboard, hepatitis E in South America, and PTSD when he gets home.

A ‘coming of age’ road trip like no other.

Going the Wrong Way is raw in its exposure, thoughtful in its deliberations, and revealing about the regimes and cultures it passes through. What an amazing adventure in the days before Google maps, mobile phones and social media. Chris encounters a near-death experience around almost every corner, and a cast of characters that will change his life forever. All told in an honest style with the best of Belfast humour.

This is not just a solo travel memoir. It's a story about finding oneself in the midst of chaos, and about the transformative power of travel. As Chris navigates the challenges and joys of the open road, he learns important lessons about perseverance, friendship, and the importance of following your dreams.

Check out the reviews and order your copy today. You won't be able to put it down!

©2020 Chris Donaldson (P)2020 Chris Donaldson
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What listeners say about Going the Wrong Way

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This is the last true adventure of the 20thcentury

Stuck in lockdown , well grab your kit and sit back enjoy the Northern Ireland Indiana Jones with the ball's of Col Tim Collins OBE and twist the throttle and let's go with half a plan. Absolutely brilliant

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what a journey

this book is amazing, the journey Chris went on was inspiring, enlightening and gives you a sense of what the world is truly like.

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Great listen

Really enjoyed Chris’s book, a great story and 1980’s world view from a different perspective. Well read in audible format.

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A proper travel story

I really enjoyed the book at brought back memories of a journey I took to Australia in 1982 with no money

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A World Wide 80's Motorcycle Epic

Whatever your age or background, Chris has a story to tell like no other. From his naive departure from Belfast across to snow bound Europe to Asia, to Africa, to deepest South America and everywhere else in between Chris manages to capture the absolute essence of daily life wherever he was. I've read, listened and watched the stories of others who saddled up to ride around the world. Charlie, Euan and especially Ted and Glenn have all got amazing stories. But Chris's story hits harder somehow. It's in the here and now, every single chapter. Not too introspective, just enough self reflection, logistics, bike issues and especially "other world" observations to keep you hooked. As an audible book you'll regret having to hit pause and will look forward to the next listen as it feels like a personal engagement. Recommended absolutely.

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fantastic and original

forgot all of the other Micky mouse motorcycle travel authors and there mediocre trips and writing. this is the real deal. I have the book and audible. fantastic

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Great book

Loved the journey and the experiences the author faced. Inspiration to live your life to the fullest.

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Awesome !

What a life at such a young age.
Chris at 21 experienced and did things that most could only deam of. I was and am in ore of this guy... his minds eye puts you in his life.
Awesome. as a fellow biker and Traveller I totally get where he is coming from... hope he writes another book... Top man Chris

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A Real Travel Adventure, Chris just jumped on his bike a rode around the world !

Really enjoyed this book, all the adventures Chris has had, basically flying by the seat of his pants!

A great adventure, Something we all wish we could do, but life gets in the way.

Well done Chris, fantastic effort and what an adventure!

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Best of its kind

I loved this book - full of energy and authenticity. Highly recommend whether or not you are into motorbikes. Adventure, spontaneity, fun and youthful optimism as well as bravery and coping in very difficult circumstances. Joyful!!

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