Carl Welsby had for several years explored the nether regions of the Middle East and Asia independently before embarking on his tour leading career. Sent on a training trip to Egypt, a train south with that master of charm, competence and Machiavellian manipulation, Steve McHardy (another contributor) and his ‘friend’ Johnny Walker he arrived in Aswan.

His baptism of fire began with being dumped in the deep end by Bob Cranwell; Bob was most of the way through a tour he had needed to take over when another tour leader had to be flown home – a tricky intervention at the best of times – and was a little the worse for wear, and beer. Bob instantly volunteered Carl to lead an optional camel trip to the ruins of St Simeon’s Monastery across the Nile from Aswan. All passed without event, save a little chafing.

Carl went on to lead many more tours for different companies in a wide range of countries, before moving first into adventure travel sales and subsequently product and operations. Downsizing to Wales in 2007 he now runs his own photography business, keeps a few sheep and chickens. His photos alone are worthy of inclusion, but they are accompanied here by sometimes eye-watering insights into the work behind successful adventure travel.