This website illuminates my life and adventures. My longing for freedom has led me to over 2450 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
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Papua New Guinea, Tree Kangaroo, 1983 - Among the many surprising sights that I saw in New Guinea was the tree kangaroo. Here, one wrestles with a dog, while children look on delighted. I didn?t even know that such a creature existed. I suppose in truth it is a form of possum.
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Thailand, Loei Prov, Upper Mekong River
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Thailand, Chiang Mai Prov, Light Painting
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Cambodia, Krong Pailin Prov, Hell
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PH, Davao Del Norte Province, Sam, Cotabato Driver, 2008, IMG_1454 - After my first driver in Mindanao completely chickened out of going to Cotabato, Sam - who was from Cotabato - said, "No problem." Grateful, I promised him he'd be Jeffshea.com's Hall of Fame. So here it is, Sam! The only problem, on my second journey there, was that Sam's van had an exhaust leak. After two days, I found my body was covered in soot. I feared for my lungs! But by now I have forgotten about it.
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Azerbaijan, Baki Prov, Park Bench Sleeping
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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.
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Thailand, Loei Prov, Upper Mekong River Rocks
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UK, Hillingdon (London) Prov, House Front
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Slovenia, Selnica Ob Dravi Prov, Door And Staircase