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
Kazakhstan, Leila, 1998 - When my Russian companions and I arrived in Almaty, Kazakhstan, I had a day off. I met Leila in a store, and she helped me pick out a shirt. She was wild and free-spirited. I enjoyed her company. When I had to leave Almaty, she rode as a passenger in my car for a day. We camped out that night; then she had to go back, as my expedition was heading across the Chinese border.
Grisel, 1998
Cuba, Havana Province - 35mm film
N Ireland, Coleraine Prov, Coastal Village
Myanmar, Mandalay Prov, Rice Fields Scene
Slovenia, Osilnica Prov, Countryside
Slovenia, Borovnica Prov, Girl
Thailand, Phetchabun Prov, Landscape
UK, Conwy Prov, Ancient Tomb
Pacific Ocean, Jeff Shea with Mahi Mahi, 1982 - On my voyage across the Pacific Ocean in 1982 in Boysie Day's 41-foot ketch, we used rags, a three-pronged hook and surveyor's tape to catch Mahi Mahi off the stern. As Boysie said repeatedly, "Mahi Mahi is one of the best eating fish there is." In this photograph I hold on to a large Mahi Mahi. Kelly Soma, our cook, fixed it for lunch; Kelly and I fell in love on the boat.
Papua New Guinea, Long Haus, 1983 - This long house was in a village near Lake Kutubu. We had occasion to sleep in such houses from time to time. It was very communal; everyone slept on the spacious floor. It was also very noisy.