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.

Madagascar (March, 2010) – After several days aboard an interesting floating vessel, weaving in and out from the forested shores of the Tsiribihina, admiring oddly shaped foliage and a wide variety of animals. We landed in time for lunch at a bush restaurant; which served an interesting menu consisting of the days catch. We departed stomachs full for a an afternoon of chasing lemurs, just in time to provide docking space for a whistling fisherman hankering for some hearty fruit-bat stew.

 

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. 

Thailand (December, 2002) – I literally stumbled in and out of the hired tuk-tuk several times, often out of sheer excitement. As the day progressed the buddha relics grew larger and more abundant. Ayutthaya provided an enlightening passage of understanding and appreciation, which was very much a part of the healing process.

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.

Canada (May, 2016) – Sometimes we need reminders of our inner truths. Most children on the other-hand have an anomalous ability to connect with their inner warrior or more importantly the intrinsic superhero without prejudice. When left unattended with ones imagination the most unusual things can emerge, as adults we just need to tap more into our inner rascal.

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.