Fatima Whitbread

Tell me about your experience in the series.

It was a spiritual and eye-opening experience, both religiously and culturally.

What was your highlight?

I thoroughly enjoyed the mountaineering, as well as walking through the villages and seeing local life in its simplicity.

What was the hardest part?

I embraced everything, so hard isn’t really the right word.

Are you affiliated to any religion and do you practice?

I am Christian; however, I am not devout. I believe in God and a higher power. I find that praying helps me in times of need.

Has the experience changed or increased your faith?

Experiencing a religious journey first-hand has deepened my faith.

Has the experience changed you in any way?

I feel that the experience hasn’t changed me as such, but it has increased my understanding of other people’s faith and increased my knowledge.

Did anything about this pilgrimage surprise you?

I was surprised to see so many beautiful monuments and places of worship.

How did you get on with the other pilgrims? Was it a bonding experience for you all?

We all bonded well and I enjoyed making new friends, it was fun too.

Describe your feelings/emotions when you reached the end of the Pilgrimage and arrived in Istanbul?

It was an emotional journey that culminated in a powerful wholesome feeling when we arrived in Istanbul. It was one of my best experiences ever.

Would you do it again?

Definitely!