Dean and Nala: The Inspiring Journey of a Man and His Cat Across 18 Countries
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
From Welder to World Traveler
Dean, a 31-year-old from Dunbar, Scotland, had long dreamed of traveling the world. In 2018, he quit his job as a welder, loaded up his bike, and began riding across Europe. His original goal? To make it all the way to Australia — then fly to Argentina and ride north to Canada.
But the trip took a surprising and beautiful turn in the hills of Bosnia.
A Meow That Changed Everything
While climbing a steep mountain pass in Bosnia, Dean heard a tiny meowing sound. Curious, he stopped, looked around, and found a stray kitten on the roadside. She was all alone, barely old enough to survive — and she walked straight up to him.
He named her Nala, and that was that. She rode in a little front-mounted basket, curled up and calm, and has been with him ever since.
Together, Dean and Nala have cycled over 20,000 kilometers through 18 countries, sharing meals, campsites, storms, breakdowns — and joy.
1Bike1World: The Internet Falls in Love
Dean started posting updates of their adventures under the name 1bike1world — and the internet couldn’t get enough. Today, their YouTube channel has more than 1 million subscribers, and their videos regularly go viral.
Whether it’s Nala snoozing in her basket, curiously watching the world go by, or the two of them sharing a quiet moment on a mountaintop, their story captures something special — a sense of connection, trust, and simple companionship.
It Hasn’t Always Been Easy
Dean and Nala have faced their share of challenges:
-
Storms and dangerous roads
-
Bike repairs in the middle of nowhere
-
Visa and border control headaches
-
The constant logistics of traveling with a pet
But through it all, Dean has stayed committed — not just to the journey, but to Nala. He takes extra time to keep her safe, comfortable, and healthy. Their bond is unmistakable.
Have a small dog or cat who loves fresh air and adventure? This soft-sided pet bike basket is a secure and comfortable way to bring them along on your cycling journeys.
Check it out on Amazon »
More Than a Travel Story — It’s a Message
Dean says his journey is about more than adventure. He wants to spread a simple message:
“Be kind.”
It’s something he’s experienced firsthand — in the kindness of strangers, the generosity of those who’ve helped him, and the unconditional love of a cat he never expected to meet.
In a world that often feels divided, Dean and Nala remind us that kindness matters. And that sometimes, the best travel companions come when we least expect them.
If you love Dean’s message, you might enjoy this shirt that says it all —
Be Kind Cats Earth Day Planet World Kindness Day T-Shirt
It’s a simple reminder that kindness matters — to people, animals, and the planet.
(As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
Final Thoughts
Dean and Nala's story inspires me to keep chasing the road — to keep pedaling, stay open to the unexpected, and never forget that a little kindness can go a long way.
🔗 Related Posts You Might Enjoy:
🚴 Gear I Personally Use
-
Renpho Smart Scale
Lost 17 lbs since buying — motivating and full of great info.
👉 See the One I Have -
Giro Fixture MIPS II Helmet
My most important piece of gear — a must-have for every ride.
👉 Lots of Colors -
Outdoor Cooling Arm Sleeves
I wear these every ride to protect my skin from cancer.
👉 Check Price -
Cosmos Cooling Leg Sleeves
I had cancer cut off my leg — I refuse to have more problems and wear these now.
👉 See Them -
Przewalski Bib Shorts
I have multiple pairs — more comfortable and last longer.
👉 See Them -
Premier Protein Shakes
I drink one after every ride — low sugar, high protein.
👉 Amazon Price
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Comments
Post a Comment
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission if you buy through links on this site — at no extra cost to you.