While cycling through the hills of Bosnia in December 2018, Dean Nicholson noticed a tiny grey-and-white striped kitten running after him.
He instantly fell head-over-heels for the affectionate feline, who wasted no time climbing onto his shoulders for a nice nap.
“She was just a wee, scrubby thing,” the Scotland native told the New York Post. “But she was beautiful.”
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Nicholson immediately adopted the stray kitty, who he named Nala. The pair remain inseparable ever since, with Nala riding shotgun in the front basket of Nicholson’s bicycle.
Together, the dynamic duo traveled to 10 countries. To wait out the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, they settled down in Hungary.
Throughout their journey, Nicholson and Nala bonded with Syrian children at a refugee camp in Greece, met a bear in Turkey, and traveled through Azerbaijan and Georgia.
They even helped rescue several homeless cats and dogs.
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The proud pet parent documented Nala’s adventures in his new book, Nala’s World.
Now, Nala is Instagram famous, with more than 800,000 followers. She frequently stars in 1bike1world, Nicholson’s popular YouTube channel.
Before Nicholson embarked on his expedition, he was a metal welder, “just your typical 28-year-old.” Feeling somewhat stuck as a bachelor among couples, he accepted one of his single pal’s invitation to witness the world.
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According to Nicholson, his furry sidekick helps soften his image. Fellow travelers and locals alike approach him far more frequently.
“I’m a big guy and I’ve got tattoos, so not many people will stop and talk to [me on my own],” he said. “But all of a sudden, when you’ve got a wee kitten on your shoulder, everybody wants to talk to you.”
Where will Nicholson and Nala go next? Their next expedition is sure to be full of fast friends, new sights, and lots and lots of adventure.
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Bravo Dean
Hope you and Nala continue to have a wonderful life together. With a friend like that,who needs people anyway?
I am a follower on Instagram. ( 1bike1world) I just wanted to add that Nala has a book out, as well as a calendar. (2nd One) Please follow them on Instagram. I love that they continually give to organizations that help animals.
I am a follower on Instagram. ( 1bike1world) I just wanted to add that Nala has a book out, as well as a calendar. (2nd One) Please follow them on Instagram. I love that they continually give to organizations that help animals.
Godspeed Nala snd Nicholson.
I LOVED this story and need to find them to follow along – there is no better friend than a furry one – or a feathery one –
What a great story. I’m so glad he and Nala found each other. She’s a beautiful little lady.
Beautiful heartwarming story I’ve ever read. God bless them.
You are a great Man Gene!!! I applaud you for your kindness!
That cat is seeing the world now! Lotsa adventures.Glad this guy gave her a chance.
Ages ago I once had a cat that ran after me – and stayed. She taught me a lot about the character of felines and really loved me. Although she`s long gone I remember her vividly. She was a door-opener in my life to hold all animals in high esteem since then. Her name was Chloé…
dean vous êtes une personne magnifique! !!!!
Dean, you are an amazingly sweet man. Many would have just rode right by this lovely feline. May you live a long and happy life together as best buddies.
Super sweet story! Animals have a way of breaking down barriers & how cool that Nicholson acknowledges Nala for “softening his image”. I’m not much of a people person, but I would definitely approach you if I saw your incredible sidekick, Nala!