We had an uncomfortable few days following my trip announcement with me feeling guilty, stubborn and indignant and Liam being weird and tense about the whole thing. Eventually I decided to bite the bullet and call Liam’s mum, and then his brother. I know Liam and the thing that would’ve been upsetting him was the thought that they’d be irritated with him for my actions, or even feel negatively towards me about it.

Neither of them was particularly bothered so I came off the calls feeling like I’d made a mountain out of a molehill. It was a gesture, though, and for Liam it symbolized me waving a big white flag over the whole thing.

I’d love to say everything has been good between us ever since but that’s not entirely true. I’m no longer outwardly showing my frustrations to him, yet there’s still a feeling of unease within me, making me feel off balance.

Prepping for this adventure has been a welcome distraction.

I know this trip is going to take me out of my comfort zone, and that’s something I’ve been set to embrace (with the help of all the luxury aids I could find, like individual shower sheets to wipe myself down with each night seeing as we won’t have water to wash in, travel-sized versions of my normal creams and potions, and a blow-up travel pillow with a silk case – although that is a necessity in my book). Yes, I’ve prepped myself to be surprised, but after so many hours of travelling I simply long for one night of comfort to recuperate and gather myself before heading into Peru’s wilderness.

The moment I look out of the minibus window and take in the sight of our yellow hotel I have hopes that inside is going to be a snug little sanctuary. Prisma Hotel might look a little rough around the edges with its patchy paintwork, but the various potted plants lining up outside on the pavement and beneath the windows give me hope. The lady at the front desk is incredibly welcoming and cheerful as she checks us in and gives us mugs of the local tea, however her smile can’t hide the basicness of the building around her that isn’t quite the spa I’d longed for. I mean, there isn’t anything wrong with it necessarily, but I guess I was expecting more and maybe, just maybe, I’m more attached to being at home than I’ve realized. Plus, the tea is revolting.