Magical Moments

As a writer based in the world’s most populous urban conurbation, occasionally, I find my clarity of thought overwhelmed by a variety of superfluous sensory stimuli that pollute both the environment and my mind. Fortunately, Tokyo provides easy access to some fantastic national parks and natural habitats that serve as refuges from the chaotic miasma. It is to these places that I regularly try to escape, not only for a quick fix of adventure but also to refocus and seek out moments of balance, comprehension and insight. … More Magical Moments

Humanity’s Legacy

The individual journeys we make during our time on Earth are short when compared to the path our species has been on, which extends over millennia. The outstanding monumental remains of various ancient civilisations that are spread across the globe attest to its length. Perennial targets of past and present explorers, they emit an alluring call to people from all over the world—beckoning with the promise of adventure and possibilities yet unrealised. Having withstood the ravages of time, they also hint at the knowledge and skills of our ancestors. … More Humanity’s Legacy

First Light, Last Light

Every morning is marked by the appearance of the sun when it climbs out of the darkness of the preceding night and up over the horizon. It radiates warmth, providing all living things with energy. It has been a symbol of birth and renewal for civilisations since as far back as we know, and without it, there would be no life at all. Rising in a silent and stately manner, it carries all the possibilities of a new day. As its power intensifies, we continue ahead on our personal journeys—taking on challenges, surmounting obstacles and striving for our goals. … More First Light, Last Light

Inspiring Scenery

Earth is a remarkable place. The planet we live on is unique, and the scope of scenic showpieces it offers is so vast that no one can experience them all during their lifetime. . . . If we don’t have the desire to get up, get out and get away from our usual daily routines, we can expect to see very little at all. However, with sufficient willpower, opportunity and the all-important variable of luck, we might be able to visit enough places to gain a firm firsthand grasp of just what it is that makes our home so extraordinary. … More Inspiring Scenery

The Natural World

Despite our variety, we are just one of the species that inhabit this amazing planet. Other living organisms can give us a renewed appreciation for the vast amount of biological diversity we share Earth with. Different parts of the world have different climates, habitats, flora and fauna. We might already be familiar with some of the animals and plant life we encounter during our travels. Others will be new to us and, in certain cases, seem exotic or downright strange. Observing and interacting with the other species that make up the natural world sometimes teaches us important lessons. … More The Natural World

Local Life

On the path of adventure, we veer away from what we have always regarded as normal. Seeing and experiencing something different can result in both positive and negative reactions, but regardless of this, new encounters help us to develop and grow. One thing that makes any journey interesting is observing how the communities we come across live. Learning about local culture through traditions, customs, dress, food, drink and typical lifestyle practices leads to more empathy, knowledge and broader cultural horizons. … More Local Life

Pathways

Every journey and every adventure begins with a single step along some kind of path. We may not know where they will take us or what trials and rewards they will present us with, but we can be certain that starting out along one of them will open up a myriad of possibilities. Some of them are solitary and straight, heading off into the distance on their determined lonely course. Some are winding and carry the traveller around corners to hidden things, while others lead to unexpected destinations via serendipitous intersections. … More Pathways