Morocco (September, 2014) – We escaped the Medina for a jaunt into a more modern take on Marrakesh. My memory recalls how unexpectedly the glorious sun refracted the metallic surfaces, set against a terracotta colour scheme. Away from the bright mosaics and intricate carpets, the large handworked doorways are a marvel discovery - evidently more pronounced with the dimming of the light.

Türkiye (November, 2019) – We skirted around Istanbul for 36  hours between flights, after a month in Central Asia. The short sejour clearly wasn't enough time to see the city, or overindulge in the culinary delights. We did however have a great time meandering around some of the historical Ottoman sites. We passed the beautiful Fountain of Ahmed III several times, each time it had a different feel and a different pull due to the reflections of light.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We arrived in Khiva, while the diminutive light started lowering on the horizon. Before losing all light we set out for a jaunt, trying to take in as much before settling in for the night. On my wander around in admiration of the colourful mosaic tiles with varying hues of greens and turquoise, I discovered a curious photographer with his gilded gold chair. It took a few days to convince the matriarch to let me immortalize her moment with a super touristy snapshot next to the Kalta Minor Minaret. Looking back at the costume and resisting expression, still makes me laugh. 

Canada (October, 2023) – By complete happenstance; our weekend excursion led us to see Ravana being assembled for detonation next month. The smallest of our platoon members seemed most excited at getting closer to the demonic character, completely distracted from the prideful squadron of Canadian geese grazing about.

Madagascar (March, 2010) – After several days driving back westwards across the formidable island. Through various landscapes, I was keenly aware that the jungle island of the past was but a memory. The roaring engine passed through cultivated lands, desertscapes, lush canyons and mud flats. Eventually, we started to see a speckling of Boabab trees, marking our destination point.

USA (November, 2000) – We emerged to a beautiful sunrise view including a dusting of snow with fresh coyote tracks. The enchantments continued as we pereginated around Monument Valley. Our Navajo chaperon guided us through the sacred lands, beyond the typical sandstone mittens. The expedition took us to lesser known, yet no-less bewitching locations. 

USA (November, 2000) – Looking up the sandstone-walls, we observed the ancestral puebloan cliff dwellings and clusters of various sized petroglyphs depicting auspicious symbols that radiate the imagination. Often enough the natural environment holds an energy, in Canyon de Chelly that energy overwhelms the rational mind. 

As I reflect on truth and reconciliation; I recognize the need to demonstrate more gratitude, more appreciation and more conservation of the land and its traditions.