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
Papua New Guinea, Pig House, 1983 - I had never heard of a "pig house" prior to going to New Guinea. In the Highlands, pig houses were common. Pigs were one of the mainstays of the economy, used for weddings, "compensation", items of trade and even temporary pets. Here, a piglet exits the door.
Nepal, Dog In Bag, 1984 - I was enamored of the woman who is carrying the dog in the bag in this photograph. I was alone in Katmandu. Judith had left to return home to the Netherlands. Gabrielle invited me to walk near Tarke Gyang, east of Katmandu. I gave up my interest in the woman carrying the dog.
Bangladesh, Habiganj Prov, Women Traditional Clothes
Myanmar, Mon Prov, Golden Rock
Azerbaijan, Naftalan Prov, Landscape
French Guiana, Devil's Island, Jail, 2000 - I had confused Devil's Island with being the place where Napoleon was imprisoned. In fact, Napoleon was exiled in luxury on St. Helena. The famed prisoner on Devil's Island, off the coast of Cayenne, was Alfred Dreyfus, a falsely accused French military officer.
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.
Turkey, Agri Prov, Spice Salesman
Latvia, Ogres Prov, Candy -
Turkey, Artvin Prov, Porta Mountain Man House