India (December, 2016) – High in the mountains; surrounded by panoramas of the Kanchenjunga, my only focus when arriving at the Lingdum Gompa was observing the ritual practices. The youngest disciples leaping, crimson robes fluttering about with the mountain winds.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – Roaming around the Registan in Samarkand, felt a little intimidating. Tiles in repetition, duplication – creating rhythmic, dynamic shapes. Dancing, whirling images in the minds eye. It overwhelmed the senses; it required a repeat visit.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – The old city of Khiva is protected by an intact and impressive fortified wall. Walking within the confines of the Itchan Kala, feels like strolling back in time. There is an ethereal feeling of fantasy with a deep sense of history and spirituality.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – I met a new furry friend inside the courtyard of the Kalan mosque; after a few head scratches the black shadow followed me throughout my visit. We temporarily named him Gato 2. As we walked back out through the Po-i-Kalyan I was sideswiped by a mini two legged creature in a giddy state.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We walked back through the Bagcha-Darvaza gate of Khiva after a jaunt outside the Ichan Kala; coincidently discovering a lovely eighteenth century plastered portico with carved wooden beams adjacent to a mini subterranean mosque. As we wandered through in admiration, the curators extended us some of their lunch.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We arrived into the old port city of Muynak (Mo‘ynoq) via a dusty part of the silk road. Evident on our travels were remnants of cotton cultivation; the result is that the Aral Sea has been reduced to mostly sand. Standing on the port-side seabed one can't help but accept. The present day desert was once a salt water oasis; its abundance, now reduce to a graveyard for once floating ships.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – Wandering around the heart of Samarkand, one can't miss the Registan. Standing in the centre of the public square one is surrounded by three madrassas, each with a portal and an inner courtyard. Each one impressive, with handpainted tile work in varied hues of blues and turquoise. One can't help but feel miniature amidst the patterned, textured walls.