Episode 79: Jacob Ashton

A World of Stories from Bike Touring through 108 Countries

Imagine cycling through 108 countries, spanning six continents and covering 163,000 kilometres. In this episode guest Jacob Ashton shares his experiences from doing just that.

Initially considering sailing, he soon realised that cycling was a more affordable and fulfilling way to see the world. From his first bike tour in 2016, Jacob has faced numerous challenges, including severe frostbite that led to the loss of a finger, and multiple surgeries due to a bowel obstruction. Yet, these obstacles have only strengthened his resolve to continue his journey.

Jacob’s first major bike tour was a four-year journey from 2016 to 2020, covering 100 countries and 124,000 kilometres across six continents. Now traveling with his partner Carolyn, Jacob has adopted a new approach to his journey. Instead of focusing on reaching destinations, they now prioritise exploring places. This shift in mindset has allowed them to immerse themselves more deeply in the cultures and landscapes they encounter, making their travels even more enriching.

One of the most gripping tales Jacob shares is his encounter in Mozambique. After setting up camp near a construction site, he was confronted by villagers armed with machetes and bows. Mistaken for a spy amidst a civil war, Jacob’s ability to communicate in Portuguese and his calm demeanour ultimately led to his safe release. This harrowing experience is just one of many that highlight the unpredictable nature of long-term travel.

I delved deeper into what it’s like to live this lifestyle, the challenges faced, and the motivations behind such an epic adventure. What’s it like to be immersed in new cultures and landscapes for so long? How does one handle the mental and physical toll of perpetual travel? Tune in to listen to Jacob share his experiences of such expansive cycle travel.

You can follow Jacob on instagram – @occasional_bikepacker
Read his account of his 2016 – 2020 world tour
Buy his book – Until the Road Ends

The Seek Travel Ride podcast