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
Philippines, Bohol Prov, Tarsier
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.
Thailand, Nan Prov, Temple Relief
Cambodia, Krong Kaeb Prov, Statue
Argentina, Jujuy Prov, Devils Throat
Cambodia, Phnom Penh Prov, Miniature Temple
Cloudscape, 2006
Falkland Island Dependencies, South Georgia South Atlantic Voyage 2006
Papua New Guinea, Stream On Way To Lake Kutubu, 1983 - This is a typical New Guinea stream: fresh, clean running water.
Congo Zaire, Hair, 1984 - This hairdo was the fashion in Zaire in 1984. I suspected that this fashion had its roots in tradition but have not confirmed it. There were many variations on this theme.
Nepal, Burying Potatoes, 1984 - I thought it strange that they buried potatoes for the winter, but that is what I was told they were doing. Having first-hand knowledge in places is fraught with the danger that you may not understand what is being told to you or that you are being given incorrect information. On the other hand, first hand experience is more enriching than reading or hearing it from others. Second-hand information has even more pitfalls.