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
Indonesia, Sumatera Selatan Prov, Ancient Costumes
World Map with the Altiplano shown in red Chile-Peru-Bolivia- Cambodia, Krong Preah Sihanouk Prov, Ice Maker
Industrial Silos, 2010 Latvia, Saldus Province (Rajons)
Nepal, Lhotse-Everest in Sunset, 1983 - This photograph was taken from Tengboche monastery at sunset. In front is the face of Lhotse, the 4th highest peak in the world. The third peak over to the right is actually Everest. Because of the fact it is further away, it appears smaller. The Lhotse face is still unclimbed.
Estonia, Polvamaa Prov, Forest -
Papua New Guinea, Gera Chief Castrating Goat, 1983 - Gera's chief castrated this goat. Although this photograph is grotesque, I felt it was important. The villagers clearly enjoyed the proceeding. At first I thought they were cruel and primitive for expressing joy while the poor animal screamed. Then I reflected that in my own modern society, many animals are slaughtered for food, but I am insulated from it. It takes place on ranches and in meat factories, far from the sensibilities of everyday people. In Melanesian society, the realities of survival were dealt with directly. It really was not more primitive, just more direct, hence more realistic. This was revelatory for me.
Java, Mt. Merapi Rock Fall, 1983 - Near the summit of Mt. Merapi, rocks fell, seemingly a result of the rising volcanic cap. The falling stones generated clouds of dust, creating impressive scenes.
Iran, Women In Qom, 1984 - I walked across the road to see the Golden Temple of Qom, a very holy site in iran. But I was blocked in crossing the street again as an anti-American demonstration blocked my passage. They shouted "Marg bar America (Down with America)." The year was 1984, one of the worst for Iran-America relations.
Philippines, Bohol Prov, Old Fort