A Writer’s Global Quest

Capturing the beauty and challenges of solo travel through engaging storytelling and insightful observations

Terry Lister shares his inspiring journey from a government career to solo travel in West Africa, documenting cultural experiences and emphasizing authenticity, diversity, and a deeper understanding of the region.

Terry Lister’s journey from a successful career in accounting and government to becoming a seasoned solo traveler and writer is nothing short of inspiring. With a background as a partner at Deloitte and a Minister in the Government of Bermuda, Terry’s life took a transformative turn when he retired at 60 and embarked on a quest to explore the world. Since 2014, he has visited 103 countries, including 23 in Africa, immersing himself in diverse cultures and experiences. His travels have not only broadened his horizons but also deepened his understanding of the world, which he passionately shares through his writing.

Terry Lister’s compelling narratives illuminate the beauty and diversity of West Africa, inspiring readers to embrace authentic travel and cultural exploration.

In an exclusive interview, Terry delves into the motivations behind his travels and the profound impact they have had on his perspective. His books, “Immersed in West Africa” and “A New Day Dawns,” document his adventures across West African countries, shedding light on the region’s rich cultural tapestry. Terry also shares insights from his book “Peace, Joy, and Love: Christmas in Africa,” offering a unique glimpse into how Christmas is celebrated across different African nations.

Terry’s experiences as a solo traveler in less touristy regions like West Africa highlight the challenges and rewards of seeking authentic experiences. His travelogues aim to dispel stereotypes and emphasize the cultural richness and diversity of Africa. Drawing from his background in accounting and government, Terry offers valuable advice to aspiring travelers who wish to explore regions like West Africa independently.

Terry’s passion for travel is rooted in his upbringing. “I was born a traveler. My father and two of his brothers were often ‘away.’ They simply had a yearning to see the world,” he shares. This familial legacy sparked Terry’s own desire to explore, fueled by a profound understanding that travel enriches one’s perspective. With a life expectancy of just 74 in Bermuda, he felt no desire to continue working past 60, choosing instead to immerse himself in the world.

His travels have taken him to places he had only dreamed of, with one particularly memorable moment occurring on Goree Island, at the Door of No Return. “It drew a feeling of numbness. I neither shouted nor cried. I was just numb,” he recalls, reflecting on the emotional weight of standing in a location with such historical significance.

Terry’s choice to focus on West Africa stemmed from a desire to shine a light on a region often overshadowed by more popular tourist destinations. He explains, “East Africa, South Africa, and North Africa are relatively well-known outside of Africa. So I chose West Africa as it is not as well known.” He conducted extensive research prior to his travels, revealing that slavery persists in Mauritania and that the border between Senegal and Mauritania is notorious for corruption.

His travels have not been without challenges. A harrowing experience crossing the border between Senegal and Mauritania involved being taken off a bus and brought to a police station, where he was confronted by officials demanding his money. “I refused to change my money,” Terry recounts, illustrating the precarious situations solo travelers can encounter.

Terry’s book “Peace, Joy, and Love: Christmas in Africa” offers insights into the region’s diverse Christmas traditions, particularly the surprising interactions between Christians and Muslims during the holiday season. “I was pleased, for example, to observe that while Senegal is 95% Muslim, the people in the cities fully embrace Christmas,” he shares, contrasting this with the more difficult realities faced by Christians in countries like Mauritania.

Navigating less touristy regions requires a level of experience that Terry emphasizes is crucial for solo travelers. “A good example is traveling by Sept-Place car; I moved from Labe to Conakry in Guinea, a total of 190 miles in 14 hours,” he explains. Yet, he cherishes the authentic experiences gained from such challenges, enjoying local meals and learning to communicate without language.

Through his writing, Terry hopes to challenge stereotypes and present a more nuanced perspective of Africa. “I hope that my writing can play a role in myth-busting,” he states. He argues against the simplistic label of “poor” and advocates for a more accurate representation of the rich, balanced lives many lead in rural communities.

His background in accounting and government informs his writing style and approach to travel. “Because of my accounting background, I can quickly convert when someone is trying to sell me something,” he notes, allowing him to avoid common pitfalls faced by travelers. His career in government has also heightened his awareness of local issues, driving him to advocate for the involvement of native people in decision-making roles within NGOs.

Terry encourages experienced travelers to explore West Africa independently, emphasizing the importance of thorough research to ensure safety and logistical awareness. He reminds aspiring travelers, “This is not the place for the inexperienced. Thanks to sound research, I did not feel safety was an issue, but logistics can be a nightmare if you do not know how to deal with them.”

Through Terry Lister’s journey, readers are invited to explore the transformative power of travel, discover the cultural richness of West Africa, and embrace the world through the eyes of a seasoned traveler.