This website illuminates my life and adventures. My longing for freedom has led me to over 2600 of the world’s 3978 provinces, to every country on earth and to the summit of the highest peak on each continent (thank heaven for good weather!). In my travels, I learned to respect the intelligence and ingenuity of people of all races and callings both past and present. Come see the world as I see it: as a peaceful place, full of nature and beauty. With the right spirit and intent, we can make our world a virtual Garden of Eden.
DISTINCTIONS: BBC 2017 Travel Pioneer • Journal Articles • Explorer’s Club Flag Expeditions
World Parks Project • Walk Across South America • Jeff Shea Travel Map
Vietnam, Thai Binh Prov, Night Restaurant Hostess
Chile, Antofagasta Prov, Neurara
Nepal, Ama Dablam, 1983 - Ama Dablam is said to be one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. It was on the back of the Nepali one rupee note. I met a man who had just climbed this peak, a difficult climb at that. He had slipped and saved his life by reaching out and grabbing a rock on his way down. I asked him why he risked his life. His reply stuck with me to this day. He said that after an experience like that, his life was worth ten times more. Many years later I was able to have a similar sensation. Risking my life on Everest was like going through a portal into a new reality. Life is not always about being safe. Doing things without a "safety net" could be a growth experience. This is not only true about climbing. This principle can be applied to daily life and to emotional experience, like allowing oneself to fall in love.
Seram, Galopa Flower, 2006 - The Galopa flower is my vote for the world's most beautiful flower. This photograph shows a young galopa flower. They grow to be even more spectacular. They are found in the forests of Maluku Province in Eastern Indonesia. This specimen was photographed between the villages of Ilela Mariena and Kanikeh, deep in the high forest on the island of Seram, accessible only on foot a minimum of two full, long days' walk from the nearest trunk road. 
Vietnam, Long An Prov, Logging Boat
Cambodia, Svaay Rieng Prov, Temple Elephants
Myanmar, Shan Prov, Family Child
Vietnam, Vinh Long Prov, Boats
Slovenia, Vojnik Prov, Farm House
Slovenia, Vuzenica Prov, Forested Mountain