Whilst we purchased our Land Cruiser FJ62 about a month ago, part of the deal was that it would receive a full overhaul to a) fix a few broken parts and b) get it ready for the journey. So, since buying the car, it’s spent the whole time at the garage. We’ve been keen (desperately so in fact) to visit our car and see how things have been going, but felt a bit ‘silly’ going to visit for no reason other than sentimental ones! As it turned out we were given a great excuse as Ikegaya-san had recently met a fellow ‘overlander;’ Naoko-san, and kindly arranged for us all to meet her at Utilitas HQ.
So, yesterday we went up to meet Naoko-san, who we are affectionately calling the ‘crazy lady,’ as she had set off alone to drive from Japan to Africa. The crazy part is she drove a 1000 cc ‘Kei’ car, equipped with literally a spare 5 litre fuel container and a spare tyre. So little stuff did she have that there was room to sleep in the car too. I have to say we were so refreshed to meet someone who just did it without all the ‘faff.’ Spending so much of our time on overland blogs: with the months of planning; the must-have expensive aerodynamic canopy (with attached tent – well where will you sit when it rains for weeks on end?); the water pumps for hot showers; the roof tent; the 40 litre water tank; the fridge freezer; folding picnic chairs …..You get the idea!? Here was a woman and a small car.
It did give us a reality check. We likened it to a wedding; being so easy to get carried away thinking you have to have this and that and, or yes, that and this. We had always intended to travel lightly, but against our better judgement, we were starting to be swept down that consumerist path. Luckily, we actually hadn’t parted with any cash on what we thought we should definitely have; only a growing list of ‘must-haves!’ So that list has been cut right back. Today’s mantra: Keep it Light…
Naoko-san was able to share lots of useful information, right down to a photograph of where you need to turn to find the unmarked steps that take you to the unmarked ferry terminal office in Sahkalin! We shared routes, places to see, sleeping options, car registration details and visa information. A really inspirational lady with a huge sense of adventure. Thank you so much for meeting us Naoko-san!
