Madagascar (March, 2010) – Given we departed and returned on the first FCE train since the cyclone, it seemed every possible banana grown in banana-land was loaded onto the train. Interestingly, the train carried three times as many produce cars as it did passenger cars. It was an overwhelming realization; that the country's overdue banana crops were loaded, destined for distribution throughout the country. Instead of the 4 hours to Tolonguina, the reverse trip took more than eight hours. In addition to being several hours late the train struggled with the weight it carried, taxingly piloting the sharp mountainous declines without having cars flying off the rails.
India (May, 2017) – Kolkata was super hot and humid, trying to amuse ourselves we ventured over for a morning visit at Baboo Ghat, whereby local convene for purification baths in the Ganges. While the family was entertained with the kushti circus around us, I dared moving a few steps further and spent a bit of time watching those bathing between the blooming water hyacinths.
Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – Our short week inside the historical city is still a highlight of my last travel foray since the start of the global pandemic. Our week in Khiva; included reuniting regularly with a group of musicians who continued to serenaded the minimal crowds as tourist season had dwindled down. My primary observation of the troupe was more often of them chatting and smoking between performances.
Canada (September, 2021) – We wandered around the decadent neighbourhood observing the new social distancing pop up patios and new murals adorning the cityscape facades. From a couple blocks away I made eye contact; my companion and I sauntered past the afternoon patio patrons and traffic to admire a facade that several weeks ago was not so vibrant. I amused myself from behind a wall of large plants to capture the eye that had called out to me.
Türkiye (November, 2019) – We arrived on a short layover between flights. Given the previous weeks in Central Asia's winter weather; Istanbul was temperate, warm and had high humidity. It was heaven!
Our short sejour allowed us to wander around the major historical sites within a short distance from our lodgings. After our last hurrah exploring Topkapi; we celebrated our journey with juice from a street vendor in Sultanhmet Square, before hightailing it back to the airport for the final leg home.
India (December, 2016) – We motored over a rickety bridge, partially eroded from main causeway, attempting a visit to Ramnagar Fort. Vaguely interested in the happening inside the fort, the area surrounding evidently just as historical, had a great deal more character. We were interrupted on our way back to Varanasi, by panoramic views of sunset over the Ganges and of a magnificent turquoise doorway. A little boy sitting outside playing shoe keeper, of some festive event beyond the magnificent gateway.
Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – At some point it was Gato 2 who guided the way through the courtyards of the Kalan Mosque. Meandering though the archways; all (but the cat) in admiration of the hand crafted mosaics and tiles. The cat also oblivious to the way the light danced from the shade trees, or cascaded reflections from the domed ceilings in the midday sun.
Canada (August, 2021) – Life seems to be reactivated; the streets are busy, patios are full. Humans are out and about enjoying the sunny skies and fresh air; after what seems like a year and a half in absurd hibernation. We wandered around Yorkville illuminated in sunshine, surround by animated smiles, admiring new murals and floral installations.
Morocco (September, 2014) – We exited the famed leather tannery; our senses permeated with pungent odours, our eyes slightly sensitive from the stinging agents used to soften the leather before processing into goods. At some point we found ourselves lost in the maze of the Medina; possibly due to the noxious fumes and yet we rambled on over cobblestone in search of hidden treasures and friendly faces.
Madagascar (March, 2010) – After our musical evening jamboree, I spent the following day cavorting mostly with the younger generations, being pulled in multiple directions at the same time. Images can be deceiving; the beautiful soul with the intense stare, demonstrating a determined sense of strength, also presented the largest smiles. I snapped a couple shots before waving goodbye, as our pirate captain beckoned us back to the barge to continue floating towards to sea.
Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – By the time we arrived in Bukhara it was late afternoon, the midday sun casting large shadows, we scurried around to catch a glance around before the end of day. Geeking out at the patterned mosaic facades, we inadvertently entered a Kukeldash Madrasah; turned hawkers market. I was less interested the merchant trying to sell us silk scarves; a large number imports from India. My eyes escaped passed (the dilapidated soviet era frescos) to the original domed ceilings for most of our visit.
India (March, 1998) – We woke up super early to catch a ride up to Tiger Hill before sunrise for a view of both Mount Everest and K2. I don't believe I had ever been so cold in my life, despite growing up in Canada. Darjeeling's humidity is due the elevation of the clouds, which meant being chilly in addition to sticky. On our way back down from a gloomy morning and minimal views of the majestic mountain ranges, we chanced upon a boisterous group of children on their way to school.
Mexico (November, 2017) – We peregrinated the charming city streets, amusing ourselves in the wealth of Oaxacan culture. After a light lunch; we stumbled upon a mezcaleria which I'm sure heightened the adventures and our afternoon rendezvous with a caravan of Catrina's. The afternoon left me dazzled by the myriad of artisans and their beautiful curiosities.
France (April, 2010) – I arrived without warning; sporting silver flip-flops to a rather chilly 8°C. My runners and jacket lost to an arduous adventure 11-hours (flight) south on the world map. Shoes shopping in Paris is a rather serious and dangerous affair; but after a month in Africa discovering outrageous fauna, flora, a pirate or two and the jungle mafia - it was the nostalgic welcome home I really needed.
Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We were up early to catch the morning train into the Fergana valley. For several hours; I watched as the landscape changed from flat plateau, the higher we elevated invited views of rugged mountainous terrain. What I remember fondly apart from the smog covered panorama, is the friendly family who shared the train car with us for a few hours.
Madagascar (March, 2010) – I spent the day wayfaring around, getting acquainted with the community for which I had serendipitously been dropped into. As the day progressed my entourage grew; within hours the troupe inducted me into their wild playful adventures of the day of braiding hair, skipping pebbles and chasing chameleons. I can't wait for another foray in the remote areas of the cultivated jungle.
Canada (April, 2021) – Cinched in the usual routine; of repeat, replicate and copy during a third wave ubiquitous virus lockdown. The sanguine of mind methodically lost in a world of fantasy; reimagining what normal life will look like post pandemic. We conceptualize the raging rapture of what dreams will come, with the help of the neighbourhood enchantments.
Belgium (May, 2015) – An extension of a very memorable hiatus with the menage, Bruges was a short sortie. We spent most of our time sauntering around the historic centre; eventually discovering the Beguinage. The walled sub-city is currently home to an order of Benedictine nuns; avowing for the pious conduct of the original Beguines settlers to continue into the 21st Century. The only oddities within the quiet space were the large structures elevated in the trees of the public square. In retrospect they would make wonderful retreats for mindful meditation, but legend has it that the whimsical attraction is simply an art installation.
Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – After several days inside the Itchan Kala hopping around the historical sites, we ventured outside the fortified walls. Our first excursion simply for basic sustenance, we walked across the arcade down a rather dusty road. Eventually we were invited into a large communist Russian era dining hall, it was rather empty, lacked colour, style or any real interest apart from the rustic menu of local foods. It was a complete departure from the intricate textiles and hand painted mosaics in abundance within the boundaries of the Itchan Kala.
Morocco (September, 2014) – In the Atlas Mountains the driver stopped at the side of road, pointing to a very rickety suspension bridge. While he persuaded me to follow him, my companions decided against the crusade. With trepidation; namely due to my size and "the look" of the bridge, slowly and hesitantly we crossed. On the other side we proceeded up a rocky outcrop into a hidden structure situated between cliff walls and trees. Working away over a fire pit - hammering metal into useful tools, was the loveliest blacksmith. As I left to rejoin my companions, he handed me a couple handfuls of fresh picked figs from the tree outside his studio. I'm reminded of the kindness of strangers in the most unusual places.
India (December, 2016) – Stupefied with sensations of wonderment, we exited Lingdum Gompa after watching rehearsals of a yearly ritual Cham Dance festival to continue our voyage into the mountains and more remote visits with the gods. My last view of the monastery provided a light exchange with a rather chatty monk. We exited the entry portal into an alternately magical world, of snowy peaks and bright blue skies.
Mexico (October, 2017) – We rambled around taking in the little curiosities, the delectable culinary delights, the ornate colonial architecture. My retrospection recaptures the couple weeks of mystery; including magical and alchemical intrigue. Even the children passively waiting in the church yards provided sympathetic sentiments.
India (December, 2016) – My impression of Amber Fort is muddled with opposing views; the opposition due to the hordes of noisy tourists and unrelenting hawkers trying to sell useless trinkets from China. While trying to avoid calamity; I amused myself watching one of the caretakers surveying the ruckus from her side perch.
Canada (February, 2021) – It's been a rather chaotic time period, most of the world is in some kind of lockdown. Here the winter freeze has elongated the sense of isolation. A melancholic feeling has been permeating my spirit; knowing almost a year has passed without any real escape from the reality which presents itself. Over the last couple days; I find myself inspired by the icicles dripping in the mid-afternoon sun, blissfully ignoring that which does not bring peace.
France (October, 2015) – I spent the afternoon absorbing an unfamiliar scene, with a familiar giant. Our destination; a long awaited biennial of photographs situation along the banks of the Seine. I was in aerial spirits, cherishing the beautiful fall weather and enthusiasm for all things Photoquai.
India (December, 2016) – Despite the ongoing construction at Do Drul Chorten; our observation transported us to blissful repose, to heightened admiration and appreciation. What amused me more than watching the circus acts involved in climbing the makeshift bamboo scaffolding, were the shadow puppets being cast on the upper elevation from the craftsmen and their tools.
Madagascar (March, 2010) – Often when I think back to my travels; it's the unexpected characters, I happened to chance upon that spring back to mind. In Brevo; the children broke the shield of hesitation through their inherent inquisitive nature. The day started with a few curious creatures, it ended however with a larger entourage initiating us into their world for a few brief moments.
Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – Deeply affected with the surroundings; we started each day walking the same path from our retreat to main street. One had to remember the intricate web of turns; one had to avoid the unnamed yet alluring tangle of passageways, unless of course one wanted to seek a real adventure. It's a cautionary tale, we found ourselves turned around in several cardinal directions and several kms away from our intended retreat on at least a couple occasions.
Mexico (November, 2017) – We peregrinated about to the myriad of galleries and museums, sauntering around in and out of artist studios. Lackadaisically meandering with a sense of awe, paralyzed in our attempt to absorb the stupefying eye-candy everywhere. Our surroundings simply marvelled; from the magical alebrijes to the strange exvoto art creations, the hand stitched textiles, the wealth of wild flora, even an impressive terracotta tile wall and least I forget, the feast of ice-cream.
Madagascar (March, 2010) – We spent the better of the day slowly motoring the rebellious currents of the Tsiribihina, the floating barge finally docked as the light started to dim. Having arrived on the banks of a rather small village, the locals started to convene to watch the wayfarers from the shore. It started out innocent enough, but within an hour anything that could be used as drum was melodically whacked. The entire cast had inadvertently turned the boat into a lively jamboree, the first of its kind for the region.
