LA: Does it have a lot of swimming? Does this play a part? Winter is here, but that shouldn’t stop you.
FB: Yeah. Exactly. Swimming is a great way to push your characters outside of their comfort zones. And what better way than to plunge into the water? Jumping straight into the water is a metaphor, right?
LA: Since I was in a Peruvian Lake recently, hopefully everyone has been able to find some body of water, whether they are in the Northern Hemisphere, or the South. If wild swimming is appealing to them, what tips can you give for finding a body of water they could dive right in?
FB: What is my advice? Seek out local groups. You can find out more about the Bluetits in the UK. Swimming groups are located all over the UK, but I’m sure there are also groups elsewhere in the world. It’s an excellent way to meet new people. You’re sure to meet people if you turn up at a beach, a pool, or a pond over the weekend. There are mountains called the Brecon Beacons in Wales, UK. My parents live there. You can find people swimming in Keepers Pond every Saturday regardless of the weather. You should always try to connect with others, so go when they are around and have something you can share. Swimming can be a great conversation starter.
I bring coffee or cake. Try to swap your coffee for someone else’s cake. This is not only a fun way to make new friends, but also an excellent way to stay safe. You’ll be glad to have someone there who can help you out if something happens. My top tip is to have my forefinger press against my thumb. When I start to feel my hands clench or claw, it may be time to leave. I have some neoprene boots. They keep my toes warm. I don’t think you have them either. It’s especially important for me to have warm toes because I often stand in the shallows wondering if I will get in.
LA: This is a very good point. I do not just jump in the water after removing the plaster. I make myself suffer. You must drag it, it seems.
FB: I am the same. I am not assertive. My partner is fantastic. He’s straight forward and does not mess around, but I want everyone to do the countdown for my sake.
LA: It’s reassuring, because I too… I think that’s all. Freya, I’m so grateful that you returned to the show and shared more stories about wild swimming. What is your website address for people who want to keep up with your travels, read your writings, and pre-order a book when it comes out?
FB: It would make me so happy if you could preorder my book. You can follow me on Instagram at @freybromley to see my latest writing. But you can also find me on Condé Nast Traveler occasionally writing about the restorative power of nature and women’s travel.
LA: We appreciate you listening to Women Who Travel. You can find me at @lalehannah on Instagram. Our engineer is Pran Bandi. Jake Lummus deserves special thanks for his engineering support. Amar Lal from Macrosound mixes our show. Jude Kampfner is our producer, Stephanie Kariuki, our executive producer, and Chris Bannon is head of Condé Nast Global Audio.
