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!