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
Turkey, Mugla Province, Jeff At The Overhang
Papua New Guinea, Huli Dancers Back, 1983 - These men wear their bilums, or bags made from the bark of the 'tulip tree', while they dance. They wear belts of bamboo or vine around their waists, then stuff leaves in between the belts and their bodies. This 'skirt' is known as 'arse grass.'
Vietnam, KienGiang Prov, Boatman
Turkey, Diyarbakir Prov, Fields
BIOT, Sunken Yacht, 2002 - In 2002, I was invited by Charles Veley to join his cruise to British Indian Ocean Territory. He chose the fastest way to go, hiring a yacht that met us in Gan. We flew in, then sailed two days to Saloman Atoll. The boat in this photograph sunk during a storm at night. One of the two anchors came loose, the boat swung around, and hit coral. When we met the owners, they were staying as guests on another yacht in the harbor. They were waiting for someone to come and resurface the boat; then it would have to be hauled to a place where it could be prepared. There were no facilities at all on the Saloman Atoll. Zero.
Slovenia, Pivka Prov, Baling Hay
Laos, Champassak Prov, Falls
Philippines, Batanes Prov, Road
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.
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.