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
Azerbaijan, Gobustan Prov, Winding Road
Tibet View From Xegar, Tibet, 1995 - This view was taken from on top of the mountain above Xegar (pronounced Si-gar). The ruins of the original monastery follow the ridge to the top. Xegar is a spectacular sight, as is the view from the top above the town. This town is on the road between Lhasa and Mount Everest's Rongbuk Base Camp.
Thailand, Lopburi Prov, Truck With Empty Sacks
Slovenia, Trzin Prov, Trzin Flag
Estonia, Jarvamaa Prov, Fence -
Bayanga Pygmy Girl with Sharpened Teeth, 2000
Central African Republic, Sangha-Mbaéré Province (Préfecture), Bayanga - 8x10 film Africa 1999-2000 Worldwide Photo Project - Central African Republic
The pygmy women sometimes sharpened their teeth, presumably to enhance their beauty.
Myanmar, Shan Prov, Interior Hut
Slovenia, Logatec Prov, Thumb Tack
India, Rajasthan, Painted Elephant, 1984 - My pilgrimage to the Taj Mahal started in Jaipur, Rajasthan. On the first day of the walk, I passed this elephant. The owner had painted his elephant's face, bringing a note of celebration into the otherwise tough existence in this hot, dry region.
Peru, Lilly, Gary Cappa, Monyo And Jeff Shea, 1979 - In 1979, I went on my second great adventure: travelling mostly by land from the USA to Argentina. Gary and I met Lilly and Monyo from Lima. Lilly was his girlfriend and Monyo was mine. They treated us like kings. The only problem was that, being a good Catholic girl, I never "knew" Monyo in the 'biblical sense.' Gary complained of the same problem with Lilly. They were affectionate but it only went so far. After I returned to the USA, Monyo's letters seemed to indicate a greater willingness, but I never saw her again. Monyo's name was really Mono with a tilde over the n. (Photo 110 format from Jeff Shea Travel Archives)