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
China, Guizhou, Old Miao Women, 1995 - In my travels in China, I was amazed at how many different cultural groups there were. I never took tours if I could help it. Discovering places on your own is enriching and more mysterious. These older Miao women looked on as younger, prettier girls dressed in magnificent costumes for the local festivities.
Solomon Islands, Jeff Shea Getting Coconuts, 1983 - After watching the locals, I had to try my hand at climbing up this tree to fetch a coconut.
Haiti, The Citadel, 2000 - I had heard that The Citadel in the north of Haiti was worth seeing. So I hopped in a small plane and flew to Cap Haitien. I wrote, "To gain the hill to the Citadel in his broken down car, he reversed up the steep parts. Novi and I tromped up the last 20 minutes and toured the Citadel."
UK, Derby Prov, Blokes
Thailand, Ubon Ratchathani Prov, Night Fire
Indonesia, Sumatera Selatan Prov, Hunter
Cambodia, Kaoh Kong Prov, Night House
Slovenia, Kungota Prov, Cleft In A Hill
Myanmar, Mandalay Prov, Bagan Temples
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.