10-11 Sept 2024
I awake to a beautiful sunrise over Rio Jaueperi, the beginning of a new day. This is as far northwest as we venture, about 150 miles from Manaus. Sounds begin to reverberate across the river as the jungle awakens to another day of struggle and survival. Seems a perfect moment to spread some ashes, to watch them shimmer and drift with the river current forever a part of the Amazon.
7-9 Sept 2024
Clouds, heat, humidity 90%, slight breeze occasionally
I am ecstatic to be departing Manaus, convinced being on the water, temperatures cannot possibly be worse.
The Amazon represents a wilderness about the size of continental USA. Its Amazon River flows massive, discharging more water into its ecosystem than any river in the world.
The Amazon, and its supporters, claim it to be the longest river system in the world, something the fanboys of the Nile River hotly dispute. Weaving and meandering from the Pacific to the Atlantic, over a distance of 2,330 miles, its drainage system is unsurpassed, providing water, flora and fauna to nine countries.
(more…)6 Sept 2024, Friday
High 94° low 79° after brief thunderstorm then 90° again
Despite heat, there exists things to see. I am early out the door with plans to escape the oppresive heat before 1pm.
5 Sept 2024, Thursday
High 97°, low 81°, humidity 68%
Manaus serves as the capital of Brasil’s Amazonas state. This busy city is not only rich in history but acts as the gateway to the Amazon Rainforest. I have seen it described as the gaudiest city in South America, if not the world. Representing a mix of urban life and natural beauty, I am here to experience both. I lodge in the historic district, making it easy to explore major sites.
(more…)4 Sept 2024
So far, the rewards may be worth the effort in getting there. The jury is still out on that decision.
(more…)29 March 2024
One does not tour India and leave unaffected. In 2005, I wrote:
“I know I will never forget India, nor will I ever be able to adequately describe her. A country where little has changed in 200 years, more people sleep on the pavement and in dirt than sleep in beds, people worship ornate elephant and monkey gods, and where modernity means the women now collect the dung with gloves.”
(more…)23-25 March 2024
Today, a short 31-mile drive takes me to Paro, perhaps the best-known small town in Bhutan. Here, I find Bhutan’s tallest building at a staggering 72’, its only international airport, mystical Tiger’s Nest, and its crowd-drawing Paro Tshechu. It is where India’s Prime Minister Modi has been hanging out the past several hours. I am here to see all of it, unless rain, snow, or Modi causes it to be closed.
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