Band, B: Three Stripes South

Chapter 1 Arriving in Israel I'm nervous about the huge and daunting task that lays ahead of me. I share how I came to hear about the Israel National trail and how I convinced my husband to quit his job and our life in London so we can take on this hike together. Chapter 2 The story of how I lost my confidence and why being left with such low self-esteem compelled me to take on a 1000km hike. I share how I prepared for the hike and how the day before I have serious doubts if I can complete it. Chapter 3 Our first days on the trail are impossibly tough. Just when I think we've got enough to contend with Gil gets sick and we are 'attacked' by a low flying helicopter. Can I really do this? Chapter 4 My thoughts are consumed with one thing only, wanting to quit. As I pass the first week on the trail and pass 100km though I start to appreciate small amazing moments that the trail brings. Chapter 5 A question from another hiker, 'why are you doing this?' makes me reflect on my motivations. Am I just doing this to prove that I'm good enough after years of feeling like I'm not? We make it to Zichron Ya'akov our first huge milestone on the trail. Chapter 6 We see through the hike how Israel is a country of separation and conflict. Still, we experience nothing but generosity from the Israeli people we pass. The trail takes us along the coast, past Tel Aviv and on to Jerusalem. Chapter 7 Reflecting back on the preparations for the trail, one of the hardest parts was telling people and the criticisms that came from that. I realise judgements have consumed my work and life choices. My blog starts to do well and I am even recognised by a reader for the first time. Is this the start of a new career for me? Chapter 8 We are suddenly in the desert, the most difficult and dangerous part of the hike. Can we complete the hardest week on the trail and conquer the infamous Mount Karbolet? Chapter 9 In the desert life becomes routine and simple and I can feel myself changing. I have lots

Bex Band is an adventurer and conservationist who, through her blog, speaking and organising expeditions, wants to inspire more people to go on adventures to realise their potential and re-connect with nature. Her passion for adventure began when she decided to hike over 1000km the length of Israel, despite being both unfit and inexperienced. Noticing a gender imbalance in the outdoors, Bex launched Love Her Wild, a women's adventure community. Providing support and opportunities, the community has taken over 1000 women on adventures around the world. Bex has been recognised by Business Leader as one of the UK's top 30 inspirational entrepreneurs and was award the Next Generation Award by Enterprise Nation. For her work advocating women in adventure she has been shortlisted for a National Diversity Award and was given 'Legacy Maker' status on the San Miguel Alternative Rich List.