I never intended to be a Tourist Guide. At least not for 25 years !Life has an uncanny knack of disrupting good intentions and planned objectives, which made me no different to many a mere mortal who has embarked on the road of self-employment.Having the sudden urge to leave the swinging 60’s, but boring commuter life of the UK behind me, I boarded a big “Boat” bound for Cape Town in September 1970. Following 12 enjoyable days, and 11 very hazy evenings on board the RMS Windsor Castle life was about to change forever.Cape Town was supposed to be the first stop on a sort of two year put the brain in neutral period, travelling to who knew where ? That I am still here, with three daughters, and a few grandkids sprinkled around, is testimony to how just one special lady was enough to curtail any ambition I harboured for moving on.Armed with an Accounting qualification, the initial 25 years of working life were spent in the wacky world of finance in the Re-insurance Industry – don’t ask. Realising that 25 years attached to any job indicates lack of ambition, the decision was belatedly taken to cease being a bit part actor in a real life version of “The Office”. Stepping out onto the tightrope of self-employment in the then fledgling Tourism industry was exhilarating, motivating and scary in equal measures. However, the Ricky Gervais years weren’t entirely wasted. A well thought through and flexible Business Plan, enabled me to negotiate the crucial start up phase like a bomb disposal expert negotiating a minefield ! Registering as a Tourist Guide seemed a logical place to start en route to business owner of a tour Operating business. Hindsight, being the exact science it is, retaining the enjoyable Guiding lifestyle, whilst attempting to develop a viable business, was an error of judgment that remains regrettable.I am now on a mission to share my own experience, mistakes, and good fortune with aspirant Tourist Guides.