USA (November, 2000) – We left Las Vegas, spirits high with excitement looming as we drove closer to the desertscape we had envisioned and imagined for years. It never occurred to me that our passage of desert dreams would include several days of snow. We finally arrived in Zion; as the sky turned. The devastating winter flakes did indeed impede our jaunt into The Narrows, but what we did see was rather wondrous under a blanket of snow.

USA (November, 2000) – While the previous trips were fantastic, the journey around the Grand Canyon was majestic. We arrived in Canyon De Chelly to mild weather and blooming fruit trees, under a dusting of snow. There was an atmospheric change as we navigated our way into the canyon. From the canyon's inner sanctum surrounded by petroglyphs and pictographs; the white house ruins and sandstone cliffs, a brilliant sight came into view, we watched a bird of prey superimpose its shadows on the desert varnished surface. 

France (March, 2022) –  Failure to validate our program vouchers meant a change in plan. Instead I wandered around enjoying the blooming season amid the renovated gardenscape surrounding Les Halles. I took my time taking in the modernized plaza and entry into the commercial centre, the vintage construction now replaced by a glass and metal canopy. The short interlude included gazing at an effervescent queue, attempting to discover their clone (Lego) figurine. 'Twas amusing to observe the lively expressions, before taking off to rejoin the troupe.

India (December, 2016) – I was excited to return to Varanasi; on my second visit we arranged several boat rides, the first to view the evening Aarti spectacle from beyond the sacred shore. It was the first Hindu ritual that I have encountered that felt more like watching a highly choreographed dance performance, versus a communal religious prayer (at the steps of mother Ganga, no less). In the end the cold and humid boat ride at twilight was the peak of the evening mission. 

Republic of Karakalpakstan (November, 2019) – After our foray into the wild and wacky tour of remains of the Aral Sea; we ventured back towards the Mizdarkhan necropolis. Within the archeological rubble; remnants of arches, crosses and even piles of stones can be seen. The site dating back to the 4th century has undergone much gentrification, but what remains of the original Zoroastrian site really was a little marvel against the monotonous great sands of the silk road. It appears that superstitious pilgrims pile stones on the structure ensuring the world remains standing. Bless them!

Madagascar (March, 2010) – On our walk through the Anja Reserve; we did not encounter traditional icons of god despite the translation of the name, Anjanaharibe means the "Place of the Great God. Instead we did encounter several lemur colonies, a variety of chameleons and a multitude of flora. We climbed through the nooks and crannies, along stone markers and through grottos with dense foliage. Cacti grew out of crevasses in the rocks; orchids mixed among the grasses on the ground and air ferns hung from the branches and trunks of trees. What I remember most intensely was the sensation of being watched; the Maki are curious creatures, in terms of showcase lemurs have the upper hand in voyeurism.

Canada (August, 2021) – As I reflect on the last few years; a fairly constant thought occurs. Milling about the neighbourhood streets for my evening walk was an unyielding primordial urge during the city lockdowns.  With the return to routine office runs and my faulty knees, it appears the usual evening salutes and bright covid smiles are a memory of a season passed. 

France (March, 2022) – In preparation of hibernation; I've been fixated on the last glimmers of daylight. Always mindful that the evening's embrace arrives earlier than desired. As the winds shift and winter season draws closer, I am reminded that eventually the perpetual spring will return. 

Madagascar (March, 2010) – While journeying we often found that children were the bridge into a community. Their natural curiosity and fearlessness more readily mitigated perceived prejudices the weary adult may have had about us, the trio of foreigners.  Curiosity is the one word that clearly describes the adventure from the Malgache standpoint and of ours: the tourists.

Mexico (October, 2017) – As we delightfully wandered Oaxaca, specifically in time for Dia de los Muertos. It was a full week of impromptu processions; admiring costumes during the day and well into the evening. As the evening light dwindled down the wilder the costumes that emerged; ghosts, devils, catrinas, mythological beasts. It really was a magical time in an illusionary world, with several midnight tacos runs. 

India (May, 2017) – As we rejoice in lighting our diya, honouring the ethereal "victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance". I can't help but having flashbacks of the rather rambunctious group of youngsters battling it out with the mud pile in Kumartoli. The mud; a quintessential component of godly crafts. Stuck in the mud or playing around, hard at work or hardly working, duality is always at the heart of the matter.

France (March, 2022) – While gallivanting the city streets we wandered down to see what remains of Notre Dame. It was highly upsetting to see the hallowed building in partial ruins. It was hard to escape the juxtaposition of reconstruction with emotions running high. The giant and I circled back to reality walking along the banks, people watching and reminiscing of our yesteryears. 

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) –  After a long day of roaming the last of the historical sights we skirted around the maze of passages surrounding the Bibi-Khanym mosque. Taking turns trying to maneuver the dainty narrows between motor vehicle and merchant carts. With great excitement we found a little restaurant with a perfect view within a stonesthrow of the majestic mosaic domed roofs. We watched the evening sky illuminate with its descending blue hues, eating hearty plov, as a final farewell to Samarkand.

India (May, 2017) – Turns out when you roam around in a befuddled state, amid a vast array of horticulture with your camera in hand, it means you are open for business. While distracted from my original intention, I ended up with a line-up of flower vendors wanting portraits. A little jasmine here, a few lotus buds over there, marigolds hanging out just about everywhere. Miraculously, we left with our delightful haul of blooms and a bounty of memorable clicks.

Madagascar (March, 2010) – While off roading it towards l'allée des baobab, the jeep meandered through jagged terrain and raced through mud flats. We stopped a few times to catch our breath and to marvel at various sized monstrosities that fell into view along the twisted path. Eventually we stumbled upon a gorgeous specimen, likely over a 1,000 years old. 

Canada (September, 2022) – Between budgets and bylaws; rushing around to grab lunch, a passing glimpse caught my eye. A moment of temporary suspension, of reflection, of realization. The scatter of multiple timelines and numerous projects ceased for a brief interlude. She smiled – I smiled, she resumed her task and I returned to contemplating lunch while admiring the circus skilled performance.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We stopped at the market on our way out of town, back down the mountainous road to Tashkent. The brief interlude between vast amounts of melon and squash, naan and dried fruits was a relief. In the end the small basket of provisions provided sustenance on a harrowing journey I wish never to repeat. The worn tires and slippery slopes caused havoc, numerous transport vehicles disappeared into ditches. Eventually the snow was so thick we could barely see out the windshield. Basically the driver used the blurry tail-lights to gauge the distance to his speed. We arrived late and bruised from the torturous ride.

Canada (August, 2022) –  We arrived to the sounds of rhythmic vibrations; eagerly we explored the vitalized movements circulating around several groups of drummers. In observance, in admiration, deep in wonderment we spent the day taking in the happenings at the Three Fire annual pow-wow. 

France (March, 2022) – While away, I spent a bit of time dashing around navigating the multiple trains culminating in nostalgic adventures. Seemingly half the population continued to wear masks though the mandates were lifted, which offered very lively experiences, most of mine with the family giants.

Canada (August, 2022) – Tentatively, we started the day holding steadfast to nostalgic memories. Like much in life, things change, pow-wows change, but the regalia, the drum beats, the sentimental belief of being interconnected with something else doesn't change. The vibe at Three Fire; with natures embrace was reminiscent of a more authentic past.

India (May, 2017) – Whilst tasked with buying flowers for a family sacrament at the famed Mullik Ghat the touristy trio immersed themselves in bartering with broken sentences and abstract pantomime, the best price for the freshest hoards of blooms. We rejoiced for a few moments in aromatic bliss, sipping tea and inquisitively bantering with the chai walla whilst surrounded by an overwhelming array of horticulture.

Mexico (November, 2017) – We spent the last few days of the itinerary in Mexico City; soaking in the hallowed blue walls and huge papier-mache constructions suspended in time and space. It certainly provided the much needed culture in the final foray. On the last day; we resumed the journeyer's trail to Tenochtitlán, the focal point was a little light babble with a stone carver.

Madagascar (March, 2010) – After several days loitering around, readjusting our itinerary due to disruptive climate change and the nasty effects of a cyclone. We made our way to the Thursday Zebus Market; attempting to acclimate to the joys of bovine chatter and barter with friendly farmers and even the local veterinarian. 

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We spent the week drifting through the old fortified city. Our primary view each day, apart from the fortified walls, was of the Kalta Minor Minaret. The magnificent turquoise tiled minaret stands as an architectural wonder and a historical backdrop to a multitude of hawker stalls selling scarfs, socks, hats, belts and touristy trinkets.

Canada (July, 2022) – The summer sun has a unique way of casting reflective light on even the most subdued facades. Racing my way to work through traffic and construction, I am reminded that the cosmos has a way of tampering with the simplest of tasks. As we ride yet another wave of uncertainty, the one daily joy is the observance of the sparkling summer light.

India (December, 2016) – From our elevated viewpoints we watched a small group of children preparing to cast their kites into the dusking sky. Amusing to watch; over the course of twenty minutes the skies illuminated with colourful kites fighting for dominance and skillful heights. We descended from our spiritual perch, navigating our way back to earth and the reality of a busy night market. 

India (December, 2016) – I often find myself reminiscing about Sikkim; feeling a strange sense of calm, wonder and sudden strikes of shortness of breath. The attitude reminded me to temper my fantastical ideas of radically climbing towards the sky. We arrived at Changu Lake, surprised by the number of large construction vehicles and hoards of yak. 

Back to reality and closer to sea level; I still have flashbacks of the time I was jabbed in the thigh by an ill-humoured but very photogenic yak with goofy knitted horn warmers. 

France (March, 2022) – Typically this weekend marks a yearly moment to triumph freedom and prideful expression, a moment to recognize the struggles of the past and to celebrate the moment. To carousel freedom of self, freedom of expression, freedom from bigotry and prejudice.  It is a dichotomy not lost on me; as simultaneously the neighbours revert 50 years of progress in the fight for personal rights. The image diverges back a couple months to a window display, showcasing replica crown tiaras, it somehow seems a fitting display of maternal strength.

India (May, 2017) – After numerous days of wedding celebrations, we sauntered around some of the more auspicious and obscure areas of the city. In Kumartoli; we admired crafty artisans, miraculously building various sized gods and their mounts from straw and mud. It wasn't the bustling, swarming production of godly multiplication that I was expecting, although impressive nonetheless.

Madagascar (March, 2010) – It was a great morning; elated from my tented view of a spectacular starry night, I woke up to the animated sounds of nature. As the day progressed naturally the animation took on another scenery all together, it reminded me of a simpler time. Over a decade later; through the process of archiving, I am delighted to be reminded again. It certainly helps spin the axis forward into the unknown future. 

Morocco (September, 2014) – From France we navigated our way to Marrakesh, slowly maneuvering the Medina and its various moorish sites. I spent the vast majority of my time; admiring the ridiculously beautiful mosaics tiles and playing hide & seek with the shadows cast from the height of the midday sun.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – While quite beautiful, sadly it appears most of the historical restoration in Shahrisabz is more reconstruction. If memory serves correct; the light seeping in from the late afternoon light, glimmered against the turquoise hued hexagonal tiles and hints of gold paint. Inside the confines of the Kok Gombaz Masjid the immaculate interior showed little signs of its age. I lingered longer than my companion to admire those little details left over from the Timurid empire.

Canada (April, 2016) – The light has shifted, the fierce summer sun is starting to make headway as the planet's axis tilts. So it starts; construction season has effectively begun, gusts of dust permeating everything. As the spring rains dwindle down to namely short angry outbursts, it's evident the next few months will be dusty, dirty and loud. The only real change is the mind-altering skyline.

USA (September, 2016) – It was a first; my brother and I took a short sejour to New York for a few days of exploration. My only real request was to walk The High Line; we mounted our way upwards towards the former railroad spur via access at Hell's Kitchen. Wandering along the elevated garden walkways; gazing out at the skyline, whilst playing hide and seek around the wind propelled art installations. 

Madagascar (March, 2010) – We drove through narrow passages carved out of the landscape caused by constant flooding. Monster sized butterflies and a multitude of birds, took to flight as the jeep raced through a land barely touched by humanity. We twisted and turned, bumped and knocked heads as the jeep struggled to keep a swift pace. Continuing through mud flats and eventually through beautifully lush landscapes. Progressing, we ventured along long stretches of unpaved roads, the red earth peeking out from under the plants and guiding us along the way towards the enchanting land of baobab. 

France (March, 2022) – Airline travel has certainly changed over the last few years; I used to find solace looking out the passenger window feeling a connection to the nuts and bolts, watching clouds curve over and under the wings with the velocity of flight. These days though with masks and mandates it doesn't have the same sense of calm and excitement. Alas; I'm safe and sound back in the comforts of the jungle oasis, joyfully reminiscing of my adventure overseas despite the added nasal swab.

France (March, 2022) – We landed back in France after a much delayed return to the familiar. With luck, our arrival coincided in time for pandemic restrictions to ease and for life to reanimate with the blossoming of spring. Our excitement led us to a wondrous exhibit at Musee Maillol; we roamed around the large photographic impressions with listening devices, as McCurry's voice gave emotive descriptions of the happenings beyond the image. 

France (March, 2022) – Anyone who's spent any time in Paris and the surrounding suburbs knows that the easiest method of transport is the extensive train systems. From my cousin's cul-de-sac; we raced to meet the train and a friend for lunch, before a whirlwind walk around some old haunts in the city centre.

France (March, 2022) – After a family foray into the immersive world of dancing Kandinsky's, we lingered through Paris's converted green spaces and impressive play-grounds. Despite the majestic modern structures, it seems the delicate tangled tree provided just as much fodder for the childhood imagination.

France (March, 2022) – We exited the train station in Colombes; pushing the stroller through the maze of passageways towards freedom and green space. The Sahara sandstorms from a few days earlier, still evident on the lift windows; casting a dusting of sands on most exterior surfaces. We danced around the waiting passengers; en route to the next sinking shuttle, towards our final destination. 

France (March, 2022) – It's become a routine; the special event, the little joie de vivre that is an essential part of the visit back to the motherland. I spent the day; galloping around with a giant - over indulging in memories and foods from my childhood. We ended the culinary adventure with a stop for gelato at the famed Berthillon after parading for hours on a glorious spring day. 

France (March, 2022) – It's been an interesting week, being back in the ancestral lands. Clearly things have changed, France is still struggling with its politics, its protests and restructuring due to the pandemic. We took the train into the city centre, peregrinating past the new facade admiring the distorted reflections of the art nouveau architecture across the street on our way to lunch at Chez Gladines.

India (December, 2016) – Almost two decades after my first experience in Varanasi, I returned with new excitement. My first experience, namely consisted of a warm clean bed, bed toast and tea for several days as a result of consuming questionable samosa's in a rather desperate act due a 12 hour delay at a train station. My second time around was much more adventurous, though the most appealing part was the calm moments taking in the culture, the architecture and floating atop the Ganges.

 

 

Canada (February, 2022) – As the world opens up and restrictions ease, the longing for exploration begins to take shape from within. While waiting for the next flight out of hibernation; I amused myself in a simulated space, watching the changing graphics, creating and recreating a virtual art nouveau dreamscape of Klimt's artwork.

Canada (February, 2022) – As winter persists with its freezing temperatures, the desire to exit hibernation is increasingly heightened. The eagerness to reconnect with the cosmos, with friends, with life in general is an urgency during the dark winter months. It was a pleasant afternoon; walking along the beach, enjoying the laughter of great friendships and taking in mother nature's icy scenery. 

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – After our first visit I started reading more about the Shah-i-Zinda, I suspect the bewilderment of repeated teal and turquoise mosaic patterns tiles and the magical light dancing around, added to the intrigue. On our second visit (after confirming with the local imam) I wandered back around to find the Socrates inscription, decorating the door way to one of the 12th century mausoleums. The translated text, simply expanded the mind.

India (December, 2016) – We are currently in a deep winter freeze, after being confined in hibernation for several months, my mind keeps wandering to scenic panoramas far away from the comforts of home. The memories of Sikkim, seems to help to boost my mood, often those thoughts return to the bumpy route towards Changu Lake. Including the teal-blue cast over the delectable mountain ranges and the fresh crisp mountain air along the way.

Morocco (September, 2014) – After a few days we started to recognize familiar faces along the path from the private riad to the Jemaa El Fna. We easily navigated warding off rowdy vendors by joking around.  With the carpet merchant; we insisted we would only enter his shop if he had flying carpets because it was a critical need. With the potter it was much the same, although my request was for a genie in a bottle. I suspect all he really wanted was some company, instead of trying to sell me stuff he invited me for a cup of tea. What I discovered was that being a silly and playing into the tourist stereotypes meant the vendors stopped asking for our attention in the normal sense instead we had funny encounters, and after a few days the added wave and 'le bonjour'.

Madagascar (March, 2010) – It was a rather nice day in Ambalavao, the fresh air and billowing clouds were a welcome relief from the previous few days of muggy weather. Despite the bustle of the zebu market, I spent a few moments of respite sitting down chatting with a small crew of farmers. Essentially seated on an old water trough; reinvented as the empty water cooler, with the official squad chatting bovine business. 

India (May, 2017) – Despite the temperatures we headed back to Baboo Ghat for another tour of people watching. I meandered around, in between the makeshift altars and priests offering sanctification for those in need of blessings. It was serious devotional business; taking places just steps away from the Ganges, seemingly so removed from the monstrous cityscape beyond.