I can't remember the exact details of how I was wandering along Old Brompton Road, suffice to say that was what I was doing. I saw the Encounter Overland shop front much as you can see it in the photo above. I climbed the stairs to the office asked for a brochure, had a quick flick through, and then I asked for a job. I did not have an appointment, so knew I was trying my luck. I explained that I had just returned from Asia, Europe and North America. I was shown up another flight of stairs. I met with Tony Jones, and I think it was Ian Way, if he was the occupant of the hot seat at the time. We chatted for a while and then he said he had to go up to the workshop, did I want to come. In truth I can't remember whether it was that afternoon, or the next day, and if the next day whether I stayed in the company flat or with my brother. Either way we went up to the workshop at Wren Park, Bedfordshire.
The map below shows the two locations. The route between the two will have varied over the years following roadworks.
View My first day with Encounter Overland in a larger map
Along the way we talked about opportunities in Kathmandu and other areas of Nepal. Looking for value added schemes such as white water rafting and trekking. These could be optional extras to add to the end of a trip. Run by a combination of drivers waiting for their homebound trip and locals. The King of Nepal was still considered a deity at the time and there were numerous restrictions, including foreign involvement. The maximum allowable foreign ownership of a Nepalese company was 49%. Only Nepalese companies were allowed to trade in Nepal. So, effectively you had to find a partnership, but you could never be in control. This was a risk.
It was a very fruitful journey as we got on well and shared views on a lot of the things discussed. Tony Jones ran the company. He was either the sole owner, or co-owner at the time. Before the end of the day I had a job as a driver for Encounter Overland. One of the best companies of its type in the day.
And that is how I joined Encounter Overland.
It is coincidental that the photo of Ian Way with the truck has an inflatable on the cab.