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Sydney Harbour, with the opera house dominating the view. Australia : 0726l
Sydney Harbour, with the opera house dominating the view.
 
The Curtain Fig Tree, also known as a ficus tree, this tree puts down branches that bury into the ground and act as a bonus root system. Australia : 0903p
The Curtain Fig Tree, also known as a ficus tree, this tree puts down branches that bury into the ground and act as a bonus root system.
 
A sunset out in the desert at Coober Pedy, a very interesting Wild West-style town that produces 80% of the world's opals. Australia : 1127p
A sunset out in the desert at Coober Pedy, a very interesting Wild West-style town that produces 80% of the world's opals.
 
Uluru (Ayer's Rock), the world's largest rock, at sunset.  It is sacred to the local aborigines. Australia : 1201l
Uluru (Ayer's Rock), the world's largest rock, at sunset. It is sacred to the local aborigines.
 
I am perched here on the edge of King's Canyon, not far from Uluru. Australia : 1214p
I am perched here on the edge of King's Canyon, not far from Uluru.
 
New Zealand - A beautiful shot of the lake by Queenstown, south island.  You can see here why the Maoris called New Zealand 'Aotearoa', Land of the Long White Cloud! Best of : 0322l
New Zealand - A beautiful shot of the lake by Queenstown, south island. You can see here why the Maoris called New Zealand 'Aotearoa', Land of the Long White Cloud!
 
New Zealand - I'm almost to the top of Mt. Ngauruhoe, a volcano in Tongariro National Park. Best of : 0631p
New Zealand - I'm almost to the top of Mt. Ngauruhoe, a volcano in Tongariro National Park.
 
Indonesia - Sunset on Rinjani volcano, Lombok.  In the distance can be seen Mt. Batur on the famous island of Bali. Best of : 1502l
Indonesia - Sunset on Rinjani volcano, Lombok. In the distance can be seen Mt. Batur on the famous island of Bali.
 
Thailand - The Vegetarian festival in southern Thailand, apart from featuring great vegetarian food, is also the host of some weird religious parades and displays of self-mutilation!  Party on ... Best of : 9b13p
Thailand - The Vegetarian festival in southern Thailand, apart from featuring great vegetarian food, is also the host of some weird religious parades and displays of self-mutilation! Party on ...
 
Cambodia - I was lucky enough to come across a dancing troupe being filmed in front of the Bayon and I got some photos like this one even without having a zoom lens. Best of : 9o17l
Cambodia - I was lucky enough to come across a dancing troupe being filmed in front of the Bayon and I got some photos like this one even without having a zoom lens.
 
China - The trek through Tiger Leaping Gorge was my favourite part of China.  This photo was dubbed 'Indiana Meaney' by some friends. Best of : ac19p
China - The trek through Tiger Leaping Gorge was my favourite part of China. This photo was dubbed 'Indiana Meaney' by some friends.
 
Tibet - The remarkable leathery faces of pilgrims at a religious festival in the hills near Lhasa. Best of : ak07l
Tibet - The remarkable leathery faces of pilgrims at a religious festival in the hills near Lhasa.
 
Tibet - Prayer flags encompass a view of the Potala. Best of : ak12l
Tibet - Prayer flags encompass a view of the Potala.
 
Pakistan - The view from Abdegar, a stiff hike from Passu (the green area to the right across the river), with a great view of the opposing mountains and glacier. Best of : ao34p
Pakistan - The view from Abdegar, a stiff hike from Passu (the green area to the right across the river), with a great view of the opposing mountains and glacier.
 
Nepal - A view from Kala Pattar, at 18,500 feet.  This peak is the usual objective at the end of the Everest trek with some amazing views.  Everest is not visible in this photo, it would be off towards my right.  Ama Dablam is the peak on the left. Best of : aw05l
Nepal - A view from Kala Pattar, at 18,500 feet. This peak is the usual objective at the end of the Everest trek with some amazing views. Everest is not visible in this photo, it would be off towards my right. Ama Dablam is the peak on the left.
 
Nepal - A little waif from the beautiful town of Bhaktapur near Kathmandu. Best of : ay26p
Nepal - A little waif from the beautiful town of Bhaktapur near Kathmandu.
 
Nepal - Nyeeargghhh!  What is it???  Don't worry, it's only a double exposure of Dominic and Bodhnath, with their eyes almost perfectly aligned.  And you thought Dominic would be improved if he had Buddha's eyes! Best of : bf34l
Nepal - Nyeeargghhh! What is it??? Don't worry, it's only a double exposure of Dominic and Bodhnath, with their eyes almost perfectly aligned. And you thought Dominic would be improved if he had Buddha's eyes!
 
India - Morning view of the Taj from the river behind it. Best of : bj06l
India - Morning view of the Taj from the river behind it.
 
India - The sun setting over a lake in Udaipur. Best of : bm13p
India - The sun setting over a lake in Udaipur.
 
Iran - Iran has more liberal policies as far as women go than most of its Moslem neighbours but it is strict on dress.  I bet these three feel nice and cosy in the middle of the summer in the desert, oh yah! Best of : bv09l
Iran - Iran has more liberal policies as far as women go than most of its Moslem neighbours but it is strict on dress. I bet these three feel nice and cosy in the middle of the summer in the desert, oh yah!
 
Turkey - I took this photo with an 8 second exposure at the Chimaera, a natural eternal flame that sprouts from a hillside near Olympos and which apparently cannot be extinguished (the gas reignites by itself if the flame is quenched, scientists are not sure how).  Ben, second from left, gets the prize for staying the stillest! Best of : by12l
Turkey - I took this photo with an 8 second exposure at the Chimaera, a natural eternal flame that sprouts from a hillside near Olympos and which apparently cannot be extinguished (the gas reignites by itself if the flame is quenched, scientists are not sure how). Ben, second from left, gets the prize for staying the stillest!
 
The Killing Fields near Phnom Penh.  These pits are where thousands of bodies were buried. Cambodia : 9l09l
The Killing Fields near Phnom Penh. These pits are where thousands of bodies were buried.
 
A child at the Bayon, Angkor, with one of the temple's many eerie, gargantuan faces of Avalokitesvara (the Buddha of Compassion) smiling high above him. Cambodia : 9l29p
A child at the Bayon, Angkor, with one of the temple's many eerie, gargantuan faces of Avalokitesvara (the Buddha of Compassion) smiling high above him.
 
The Bayon reflected in a pool of water. Cambodia : 9l30p
The Bayon reflected in a pool of water.
 
Avalotikesvara and Mike Meaney. Cambodia : 9l36p
Avalotikesvara and Mike Meaney.
 
Avalotikesvara, three of his baldy followers and Mike Meaney. Cambodia : 9l37p
Avalotikesvara, three of his baldy followers and Mike Meaney.
 
Angkor Thom is a temple that has been left the way explorers found it, with massive tree roots growing all through the stone work.  A very atmospheric place. Cambodia : 9m19p
Angkor Thom is a temple that has been left the way explorers found it, with massive tree roots growing all through the stone work. A very atmospheric place.
 
A monk posing outside Angkor's most famous temple, Angkor Wat.  Angkor Wat is the world's largest temple and is said by many to be one of the most inspired and spectacular monuments ever conceived by the human mind.  I wouldn't disagree. Cambodia : 9o01p
A monk posing outside Angkor's most famous temple, Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is the world's largest temple and is said by many to be one of the most inspired and spectacular monuments ever conceived by the human mind. I wouldn't disagree.
 
I was lucky enough to come across a dancing troupe being filmed in front of the Bayon and I got some photos like this one even without having a zoom lens. Cambodia : 9o17l
I was lucky enough to come across a dancing troupe being filmed in front of the Bayon and I got some photos like this one even without having a zoom lens.
 
The dancing troupe poses for a group photo outside the Bayon. Cambodia : 9o26l
The dancing troupe poses for a group photo outside the Bayon.
 
On the left can be seen a 900 year old carving of two apsaras (dancers) and to its right the modern day version. Cambodia : 9o37l
On the left can be seen a 900 year old carving of two apsaras (dancers) and to its right the modern day version.
 
Two apsaras looking out an Angkor Wat window at another dance troupe. Cambodia : 9o38p
Two apsaras looking out an Angkor Wat window at another dance troupe.
 
Apsaras are not allowed to show their teeth while performing, they are expected to have a permanent, close-lipped, enigmatic smile on their face.  It was only after people stopped photographing these girls that they broke out into beautiful smiles. Cambodia : 9p01l
Apsaras are not allowed to show their teeth while performing, they are expected to have a permanent, close-lipped, enigmatic smile on their face. It was only after people stopped photographing these girls that they broke out into beautiful smiles.
 
Geee, isn't she cute. China : 9y28p
Geee, isn't she cute.
 
The landscape near Guilin and Yangshuo contains the most dramatic karst scenery you will find.  It is a great place for bike riding too. China : 9z17l
The landscape near Guilin and Yangshuo contains the most dramatic karst scenery you will find. It is a great place for bike riding too.
 
Yum yum, left over bones and offal from a filthy Chinese market.  Pass the salt. China : ab10l
Yum yum, left over bones and offal from a filthy Chinese market. Pass the salt.
 
The Chinese government are very honest about the fact that they lie to their people! China : ac05l
The Chinese government are very honest about the fact that they lie to their people!
 
The trek through Tiger Leaping Gorge was my favourite part of China.  This photo was dubbed 'Indiana Meaney' by some friends. China : ac19p
The trek through Tiger Leaping Gorge was my favourite part of China. This photo was dubbed 'Indiana Meaney' by some friends.
 
The Stone Forest near Kunming has some very unusual rock formations. China : ac28l
The Stone Forest near Kunming has some very unusual rock formations.
 
Tiger Leaping Gorge again.  If you'll look carefully you'll see James on the left with his arms stretched wide. China : ad08p
Tiger Leaping Gorge again. If you'll look carefully you'll see James on the left with his arms stretched wide.
 
Meaney thinks nothing of getting up close and personal with one of the world's deepest gorges! China : ad10l
Meaney thinks nothing of getting up close and personal with one of the world's deepest gorges!
 
The World Heritage town of Lijiang is a lovely place and you can still find some older people there that wear traditional clothes. China : ae01l
The World Heritage town of Lijiang is a lovely place and you can still find some older people there that wear traditional clothes.
 
A slender, green forest on the slopes of the sacred Mt. Emei. China : ae23l
A slender, green forest on the slopes of the sacred Mt. Emei.
 
This toilet has more privacy than some I've seen.  I mean, at least it has a wall between each hole! China : af05l
This toilet has more privacy than some I've seen. I mean, at least it has a wall between each hole!
 
A beautiful bridge near Chengdu. China : af07l
A beautiful bridge near Chengdu.
 
Wheeeee! China : af15p
Wheeeee!
 
The Great Buddha of Leshan was for hundreds of years the world's largest statue.  It is carved into the rock of a cliff. China : af19p
The Great Buddha of Leshan was for hundreds of years the world's largest statue. It is carved into the rock of a cliff.
 
Buy shite, get your shite here, we sell nothing but shite, the best value shite in town! China : ag06l
Buy shite, get your shite here, we sell nothing but shite, the best value shite in town!
 
A fur seller insisted on me trying on his wares. China : ag07p
A fur seller insisted on me trying on his wares.
 
The Terracotta Warriors, Xi'an.  This army of over 6,000 lifesize clay figures are meant to guard, in death, China's first and most hated emperor, Qin.  He was also responsible for building the major part of the Great Wall. China : ag11l
The Terracotta Warriors, Xi'an. This army of over 6,000 lifesize clay figures are meant to guard, in death, China's first and most hated emperor, Qin. He was also responsible for building the major part of the Great Wall.
 
Visitors are not supposed to take photographs of the warriors because the authorities want to screw tourists by having to pay $20 for an exclusive photo.  Bollocks to that I say! China : ag12l
Visitors are not supposed to take photographs of the warriors because the authorities want to screw tourists by having to pay $20 for an exclusive photo. Bollocks to that I say!
 
Huashan, another sacred mountain, is classic China, full of temple-topped peaks joined to each other by vertiginous staircases.  It's a pity it was misty the day I visited it. China : ag18p
Huashan, another sacred mountain, is classic China, full of temple-topped peaks joined to each other by vertiginous staircases. It's a pity it was misty the day I visited it.
 
Shaolin Monastery is the home of Kung Fu.  Matt and I give our own interpretation of the discipline.! China : ag29l
Shaolin Monastery is the home of Kung Fu. Matt and I give our own interpretation of the discipline.!
 
Some people just ain't got no respect. China : ag32p
Some people just ain't got no respect.
 
You might expect Shaolin Monastery to be an oasis of peace.  It's not.  It's grossly commercialised for the masses of Chinese tourists that visit each year and contains a modern 360 degree movie theater, a cable car ride, tons of tacky tourist junk stalls and this incongruous silver aeroplane.  What's it doing here?? China : ag37l
You might expect Shaolin Monastery to be an oasis of peace. It's not. It's grossly commercialised for the masses of Chinese tourists that visit each year and contains a modern 360 degree movie theater, a cable car ride, tons of tacky tourist junk stalls and this incongruous silver aeroplane. What's it doing here??
 
Watch out for those Terracotta Warriors chaps, backs to the wall! China : ah09p
Watch out for those Terracotta Warriors chaps, backs to the wall!
 
Tiananmen Square, the world's largest city square.  At one end can be seen the entrance to the Forbidden City where the emperors once lived.  The entrance now has a painting of Mao-Tse Tung over it, you can barely make it out. China : ah11l
Tiananmen Square, the world's largest city square. At one end can be seen the entrance to the Forbidden City where the emperors once lived. The entrance now has a painting of Mao-Tse Tung over it, you can barely make it out.
 
The Great Wall.  Most of the wall has been carted away by locals for building their houses and stuff but there is still large bits left.  And it is not the only man made object visible from outer space. China : ah15l
The Great Wall. Most of the wall has been carted away by locals for building their houses and stuff but there is still large bits left. And it is not the only man made object visible from outer space.
 
The Great Wall is enhanced by having me in the picture too! China : ai02l
The Great Wall is enhanced by having me in the picture too!
 
The Mao painting at the entrance to the Forbidden City.  Despite the gross damage he did to China Mao is still revered by most people. China : ai16p
The Mao painting at the entrance to the Forbidden City. Despite the gross damage he did to China Mao is still revered by most people.
 
The beautiful Temple of Heaven, Beijing. China : ai35l
The beautiful Temple of Heaven, Beijing.
 
Towering sand dunes at Dunhuang, in the desert north of Tibet. China : am33l
Towering sand dunes at Dunhuang, in the desert north of Tibet.
 
A statue of Mao-Tse Tung in Kashgar in the very west of China. China : an36p
A statue of Mao-Tse Tung in Kashgar in the very west of China.
 
Need I say it?  The Sphinx. Egypt : cc09l
Need I say it? The Sphinx.
 
I give you the Pyramids! Egypt : cc10l
I give you the Pyramids!
 
A few of the voracious leech-like camel ride sellers that you cannot avoid at the Pyramids. Egypt : cc11l
A few of the voracious leech-like camel ride sellers that you cannot avoid at the Pyramids.
 
Each night they put on an impressive sound and light show at the Pyramids. Egypt : cc14l
Each night they put on an impressive sound and light show at the Pyramids.
 
Sunset by a lake near the relaxing spot of Siwa Oasis near the Libyan border. Egypt : cc24p
Sunset by a lake near the relaxing spot of Siwa Oasis near the Libyan border.
 
I stayed up in the highlands with a native Fijian family for a few days, this was my accomodation. Fiji : 0208l
I stayed up in the highlands with a native Fijian family for a few days, this was my accomodation.
 
Within minutes of landing in Hong Kong I was lucky enough to bump into a friend I met in Thailand, Andy, who took me on some great walks in this mountainous state. Hong Kong : 9z27l
Within minutes of landing in Hong Kong I was lucky enough to bump into a friend I met in Thailand, Andy, who took me on some great walks in this mountainous state.
 
No it's not a boat, it's a shopping mall of course, it just looks like a boat!  The concrete Whampoa Plaz, situated on dry land. Hong Kong : aa01l
No it's not a boat, it's a shopping mall of course, it just looks like a boat! The concrete Whampoa Plaz, situated on dry land.
 
The Kowloon coast is quite beautiful. Hong Kong : aa06p
The Kowloon coast is quite beautiful.
 
An abandoned and atmospheric house that I discovered on one of the walks. Hong Kong : aa14l
An abandoned and atmospheric house that I discovered on one of the walks.
 
The twin towers of the Lippo Bank building. Hong Kong : aa28p
The twin towers of the Lippo Bank building.
 
The Golden Temple at Amritsar, the holiest site of worship for Sikhs.  Pilgrims (including foreign tourists) are allowed to stay and eat at the temple for free!  As if India wasn't cheap enough? India : ar02l
The Golden Temple at Amritsar, the holiest site of worship for Sikhs. Pilgrims (including foreign tourists) are allowed to stay and eat at the temple for free! As if India wasn't cheap enough?
 
An unusual geological formation on the road to Ladakh.  The winding road at the bottom gives an idea of the scale. India : ar19l
An unusual geological formation on the road to Ladakh. The winding road at the bottom gives an idea of the scale.
 
Twelve dogs in Leh, Ladakh, sleeping in the shade together. India : ar26l
Twelve dogs in Leh, Ladakh, sleeping in the shade together.
 
Ladakhi people are essentially Tibetans with weird hats. India : ar38p
Ladakhi people are essentially Tibetans with weird hats.
 
Unbelievable is not it?  This is the second highest road in the world, not so far from the highest, the road into the Nubra Valley, Ladakh. India : as08l
Unbelievable is not it? This is the second highest road in the world, not so far from the highest, the road into the Nubra Valley, Ladakh.
 
This is the river Ganga, formerly known as the Ganges, at Varanasi. India : bg15l
This is the river Ganga, formerly known as the Ganges, at Varanasi.
 
Soapy men bathing themselves in the Ganga at Varanasi. India : bg32p
Soapy men bathing themselves in the Ganga at Varanasi.
 
Varanasi, the holiest city in India.  Many people come here to die and be cremated.  You can see the smoke from a fresh toasting over on the left! India : bg34l
Varanasi, the holiest city in India. Many people come here to die and be cremated. You can see the smoke from a fresh toasting over on the left!
 
Khajuraho has some beautiful temples covered with ornate carvings.  Some are explicit in nature such as this.  Warning India : bh06l
Khajuraho has some beautiful temples covered with ornate carvings. Some are explicit in nature such as this. Warning
 
A lizard finds a home on one of the ornate Khajuraho carvings. India : bh15p
A lizard finds a home on one of the ornate Khajuraho carvings.
 
The Indians of old were, eh, great animal lovers! India : bh24l
The Indians of old were, eh, great animal lovers!
 
Squinting at computer screens all day will damage your eyes!  P.S. Send me an e-mail if you can figure out what's going on here. India : bh26l
Squinting at computer screens all day will damage your eyes! P.S. Send me an e-mail if you can figure out what's going on here.
 
The world's greatest monument to love, the Taj Mahal (literally 'Head Palace').  It was built around 1650 by Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal (meaning 'Jewel of the Palace') who had died at the age of 39 giving birth to their 14th child, the poor woman. India : bi06l
The world's greatest monument to love, the Taj Mahal (literally 'Head Palace'). It was built around 1650 by Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal (meaning 'Jewel of the Palace') who had died at the age of 39 giving birth to their 14th child, the poor woman.
 
This is the cheap backpacker area of Agra, home of the Taj.  Camels are still used in place of donkeys here. India : bi36l
This is the cheap backpacker area of Agra, home of the Taj. Camels are still used in place of donkeys here.
 
Morning view of the Taj from the river behind it. India : bj06l
Morning view of the Taj from the river behind it.
 
The Taj Mahal, Agra. India : bj10l
The Taj Mahal, Agra.
 
I bumped into Rob and Kristie by accident in Nepal after not having seen them since meeting them on the Siberut Island trek 13 months before.  We ended up travelling through India for 6 weeks together. India : bj30p
I bumped into Rob and Kristie by accident in Nepal after not having seen them since meeting them on the Siberut Island trek 13 months before. We ended up travelling through India for 6 weeks together.
 
The Palace of Winds in Jaipur.  This building is mainly a facade with little of interest inside. India : bj36l
The Palace of Winds in Jaipur. This building is mainly a facade with little of interest inside.
 
They happened to be making a movie when I visited the main palace in Jaipur, the two stars are on the left. India : bk03l
They happened to be making a movie when I visited the main palace in Jaipur, the two stars are on the left.
 
The movie stars. India : bk06l
The movie stars.
 
Sunset by the lake in Pushkar, out in the desert in Rajasthan. India : bk18p
Sunset by the lake in Pushkar, out in the desert in Rajasthan.
 
Another Pushkar sunset. India : bk25p
Another Pushkar sunset.
 
I wonder if this couple really think that hairstyle suits their son? India : bl15l
I wonder if this couple really think that hairstyle suits their son?
 
A boy from Jaisalmer. India : bl19l
A boy from Jaisalmer.
 
Dung!  That's what it is in case you're wondering.  Once it is dried in the sun it can be used as fuel for fires. India : bl25l
Dung! That's what it is in case you're wondering. Once it is dried in the sun it can be used as fuel for fires.
 
Rob and Kristie in the ornate Jaisalmer fort. India : bl30l
Rob and Kristie in the ornate Jaisalmer fort.
 
Sunset above Jaisalmer fort and spires of a Jain temple.  Jainism is a popular India-only religion, a blend of Buddhism and Hinduism.  They hold all life precious and some devout priests go so far as to wear guards in front of their mouths in case they swallow an insect by accident.  They also sweep in front of themselves as they walk so as not to crush any creature with their feet! India : bl36l
Sunset above Jaisalmer fort and spires of a Jain temple. Jainism is a popular India-only religion, a blend of Buddhism and Hinduism. They hold all life precious and some devout priests go so far as to wear guards in front of their mouths in case they swallow an insect by accident. They also sweep in front of themselves as they walk so as not to crush any creature with their feet!
 
Bhang is the Indian name for hashish.  Jaisalmer fortunately has a bhang shop authorised by the government, cows like hanging out there. India : bm03l
Bhang is the Indian name for hashish. Jaisalmer fortunately has a bhang shop authorised by the government, cows like hanging out there.
 
The blue walls of the old city of Jodhpur with the palace/fort in the distance. India : bm08l
The blue walls of the old city of Jodhpur with the palace/fort in the distance.
 
The sun setting over a lake in Udaipur. India : bm13p
The sun setting over a lake in Udaipur.
 
The Bibi ka Maqbara, the poor cousin of the Taj Mahal.  It was built by Aurangzeb, son of Taj builder Shah Jahan, as a monument to his own wife.  It will give you an idea of what was spent on the Taj if you know that Aurangzeb spent 300 times less on this structure than was spent on the Taj. India : bm33l
The Bibi ka Maqbara, the poor cousin of the Taj Mahal. It was built by Aurangzeb, son of Taj builder Shah Jahan, as a monument to his own wife. It will give you an idea of what was spent on the Taj if you know that Aurangzeb spent 300 times less on this structure than was spent on the Taj.
 
No, those aren't spices, that's colourful stuff for daubing on your forehead. India : bm34l
No, those aren't spices, that's colourful stuff for daubing on your forehead.
 
Lawnmower Man 3!  This gives some idea of how cheap labour is in India.  These guys are actually mowing the lawn. India : bm35l
Lawnmower Man 3! This gives some idea of how cheap labour is in India. These guys are actually mowing the lawn.
 
A Buddhist cave at Ellora.  This was completely carved out of a cliff of rock. India : bn01l
A Buddhist cave at Ellora. This was completely carved out of a cliff of rock.
 
The crowning glory of Ellora, the Kailasanata temple.  This is a complete building of two stories with ornate decorations all carved from the one piece of rock!  You can see the cliff of volcanic rock that it was carved from on either side of the photo. India : bn15l
The crowning glory of Ellora, the Kailasanata temple. This is a complete building of two stories with ornate decorations all carved from the one piece of rock! You can see the cliff of volcanic rock that it was carved from on either side of the photo.
 
Please e-mail me your guesses at what this sign is for! India : bn31l
Please e-mail me your guesses at what this sign is for!
 
Colonel Sanders watch out, Colonel Slanders is on your ass! India : bn32l
Colonel Sanders watch out, Colonel Slanders is on your ass!
 
A gopuram (gateway) of the rather remarkable Minakshi Temple in Madurai.  The temple is built in the 'Vijayanagara' style and to Western tastes it might be said to represent the pinnacle of kitschs! The sheer impressive size of the temple saves it, it is reputed to be decorated with 33 million carvings India : bo31p
A gopuram (gateway) of the rather remarkable Minakshi Temple in Madurai. The temple is built in the 'Vijayanagara' style and to Western tastes it might be said to represent the pinnacle of kitschs! The sheer impressive size of the temple saves it, it is reputed to be decorated with 33 million carvings
 
Some of the 33 million carvings of the Minakshi temple in Madurai. India : bo33p
Some of the 33 million carvings of the Minakshi temple in Madurai.
 
The temple of Konark has some interesting carvings, can you figure this one out? India : bq06p
The temple of Konark has some interesting carvings, can you figure this one out?
 
The main temple at Bodh Gaya, the world's holiest Buddhist pilgrimage site.  It is here that Buddha became enlightened under the Bo tree. India : bq10p
The main temple at Bodh Gaya, the world's holiest Buddhist pilgrimage site. It is here that Buddha became enlightened under the Bo tree.
 
This is the spot where Buddha became enlightened.  The tree here now is supposed to be something like the great-great-grandson of the original tree under which Buddha realised the truth of the universe, went beyond suffering and broke out of the cycle of rebirth!  Good on yer bro! India : bq11p
This is the spot where Buddha became enlightened. The tree here now is supposed to be something like the great-great-grandson of the original tree under which Buddha realised the truth of the universe, went beyond suffering and broke out of the cycle of rebirth! Good on yer bro!
 
A park in the middle of Calcutta is home to a thriving warren of rats. India : bq15p
A park in the middle of Calcutta is home to a thriving warren of rats.
 
Do you really think I'm going to drop my business from that height, all the way down onto a bare piece of porcelain.  There'd be bits flying everywhere! India : bq20p
Do you really think I'm going to drop my business from that height, all the way down onto a bare piece of porcelain. There'd be bits flying everywhere!
 
A frosty field on the trek to Phalut, north of Darjeeling.  Our friends Aaron and Annabel can barely be seen at the top left. India : br30l
A frosty field on the trek to Phalut, north of Darjeeling. Our friends Aaron and Annabel can barely be seen at the top left.
 
I guess the wind played a part in causing these unusual icy formations on the tree. India : br33p
I guess the wind played a part in causing these unusual icy formations on the tree.
 
Niall with Kanchenjunga, the world's 3rd highest mountain, clouded over on the right. India : br35l
Niall with Kanchenjunga, the world's 3rd highest mountain, clouded over on the right.
 
Me with Kanchenjunga. India : bs03l
Me with Kanchenjunga.
 
Barber, I think I'll have a number zero please! India : bs14l
Barber, I think I'll have a number zero please!
 
Steady, steady, easy does it. India : bs16l
Steady, steady, easy does it.
 
Er, I'm not sure if this was a good idea. India : bs17l
Er, I'm not sure if this was a good idea.
 
What the hell! India : bs20l
What the hell!
 
I'm back in Varanasi here with Niall, fairly hairless but not for long.  I reckoned the bald look wasn't for me so that was the first and last time I've had the head shaved. India : bs30l
I'm back in Varanasi here with Niall, fairly hairless but not for long. I reckoned the bald look wasn't for me so that was the first and last time I've had the head shaved.
 
Some women doing their morning bathing ritual in the sacred waters of the Ganga. India : bs35l
Some women doing their morning bathing ritual in the sacred waters of the Ganga.
 
Some girls doing the washing.  Advantage here is they can wash their bodies as well as their clothes in one fell swoop.  Righteous! India : bs36l
Some girls doing the washing. Advantage here is they can wash their bodies as well as their clothes in one fell swoop. Righteous!
 
The second time I visited the Taj Mahal I was lucky to come across this bunch of Rajasthanis, from India's most colourful state. India : bt04p
The second time I visited the Taj Mahal I was lucky to come across this bunch of Rajasthanis, from India's most colourful state.
 
The mountains above Dharamsala.  Dharamsala is the home of the exiled Dalai Lama of Tibet and where I did an excellent course in Buddhism at the Tushita centre.  Dharamsala is also home to India's best cakes and cappucinos, bonus! India : bt19l
The mountains above Dharamsala. Dharamsala is the home of the exiled Dalai Lama of Tibet and where I did an excellent course in Buddhism at the Tushita centre. Dharamsala is also home to India's best cakes and cappucinos, bonus!
 
Don't say this too fast, you might get in trouble. India : bt21l
Don't say this too fast, you might get in trouble.
 
A Tibetan mandala.  It is a religious picture, this one is made from grains of coloured sand.  The monks are carefully tapping the particles onto the table to painstaking form the image that will be used in a ceremony led by the Dalai Lama. India : bt25l
A Tibetan mandala. It is a religious picture, this one is made from grains of coloured sand. The monks are carefully tapping the particles onto the table to painstaking form the image that will be used in a ceremony led by the Dalai Lama.
 
No, I'm not suddenly back in Sydney.  This is the Bahai Temple in New Delhi.  Bahaism is a sort of global religion that welcomes peoples of all faiths to worship in its temples which are free of images and icons.  I wonder which building inspired this one? India : bt29l
No, I'm not suddenly back in Sydney. This is the Bahai Temple in New Delhi. Bahaism is a sort of global religion that welcomes peoples of all faiths to worship in its temples which are free of images and icons. I wonder which building inspired this one?
 
We spent a couple of nights on a boat on the way to the island of Komodo, famous for having the world's largest lizards, the Komodo Dragons. As you can see we had a nice sunset one night. Indonesia : 1416l
We spent a couple of nights on a boat on the way to the island of Komodo, famous for having the world's largest lizards, the Komodo Dragons. As you can see we had a nice sunset one night.
 
Standing on the edge of the crater of Mt. Rinjani, Lombok island, you can see within a crescent lake as well as a perfectly formed baby volcano. One of the great sights of Indonesia. Indonesia : 1433l
Standing on the edge of the crater of Mt. Rinjani, Lombok island, you can see within a crescent lake as well as a perfectly formed baby volcano. One of the great sights of Indonesia.
 
Sunset on Rinjani volcano, Lombok.  In the distance can be seen Mt. Batur on the famous island of Bali. Indonesia : 1502l
Sunset on Rinjani volcano, Lombok. In the distance can be seen Mt. Batur on the famous island of Bali.
 
The terraced rice fields on beautiful Bali. Indonesia : 1508l
The terraced rice fields on beautiful Bali.
 
Standing on the edge of a volcanic crater, you can see withing three volcanos (Mt. Bromo is belching steam at the left) and in the distance beyond the crater is Mt. Semeru which coughs out smoke every half an hour or so. Indonesia : 1630l
Standing on the edge of a volcanic crater, you can see withing three volcanos (Mt. Bromo is belching steam at the left) and in the distance beyond the crater is Mt. Semeru which coughs out smoke every half an hour or so.
 
Looking down into the crater of Mt. Bromo on the island of Java. Indonesia : 1636l
Looking down into the crater of Mt. Bromo on the island of Java.
 
The dusty atmosphere and porous roof allowed me to capture this nice image at some kind of factory (bread?) near Solo, Java. Indonesia : 1710p
The dusty atmosphere and porous roof allowed me to capture this nice image at some kind of factory (bread?) near Solo, Java.
 
Borobodur is the world's largest Buddhist monument on the Moslem island of Java.  It's not a building, you cannot go inside. Indonesia : 1810l
Borobodur is the world's largest Buddhist monument on the Moslem island of Java. It's not a building, you cannot go inside.
 
In Jakarta my 6 week travelling companion Ed (far right) and I were hired as extras in an Indonesian historical movie epic, playing the part of Dutch soldiers. Indonesia : 1826l
In Jakarta my 6 week travelling companion Ed (far right) and I were hired as extras in an Indonesian historical movie epic, playing the part of Dutch soldiers.
 
I didn't realise when I was hired that I would have to pretend to die screaming in agony engulfed in flames.  It took us just two takes to nail the scene! Indonesia : 1837l
I didn't realise when I was hired that I would have to pretend to die screaming in agony engulfed in flames. It took us just two takes to nail the scene!
 
I was invited to attend a local independence day parade near Bukittinggi, Sumatra, and before I knew it I had been drafted to take part in a martial arts demonstration in front of local dignitaries and thousands of people!  I'm second from the left. Indonesia : 1920l
I was invited to attend a local independence day parade near Bukittinggi, Sumatra, and before I knew it I had been drafted to take part in a martial arts demonstration in front of local dignitaries and thousands of people! I'm second from the left.
 
Lake Maninjau, Sumatra, a nice spot to relax in, lies in the crater below me, Indonesia : 2017l
Lake Maninjau, Sumatra, a nice spot to relax in, lies in the crater below me,
 
I went on a trek to Siberut Island, home of the Mentawai tribe, for my 30th birthday.  Here Lala, our number one medicine man, is bashing the daylights out of a bark strip in order to make a loin cloth. Indonesia : 2037p
I went on a trek to Siberut Island, home of the Mentawai tribe, for my 30th birthday. Here Lala, our number one medicine man, is bashing the daylights out of a bark strip in order to make a loin cloth.
 
One day the girls on our Siberut trek left to go fishing with the tribeswomen. They were nice and clean and wore leaves over their breasts.  They returned 2 hours later like this, covered in mud! Indonesia : 2108l
One day the girls on our Siberut trek left to go fishing with the tribeswomen. They were nice and clean and wore leaves over their breasts. They returned 2 hours later like this, covered in mud!
 
Did you want a close-up of those girls?  You got it! Indonesia : 2109p
Did you want a close-up of those girls? You got it!
 
Here am I with one of the Mentawai medicine men. Indonesia : 2117l
Here am I with one of the Mentawai medicine men.
 
My 30th birthday dawned and it was time for the men to kit out in their loin cloths and go hunting for wild boar! Indonesia : 2127l
My 30th birthday dawned and it was time for the men to kit out in their loin cloths and go hunting for wild boar!
 
Fancy the rear view better?  Such cheeky men! Indonesia : 2128l
Fancy the rear view better? Such cheeky men!
 
These guys look downright scary.  Notice the mosquito bites on my upper arm, yummy! Indonesia : 2130l
These guys look downright scary. Notice the mosquito bites on my upper arm, yummy!
 
We could do well in a circus, whatcha think? Indonesia : 2134p
We could do well in a circus, whatcha think?
 
Mmmmm, Sumatran centipedes, my favourite!  No, I didn't actually eat it. Indonesia : 2226l
Mmmmm, Sumatran centipedes, my favourite! No, I didn't actually eat it.
 
This one came out very well, a bunch of Siberut island trekkers huddled over the photographer, Bone, who was lying on the ground.  My face ruins the whole happy feel to the photo though, heh heh! Indonesia : 2232l
This one came out very well, a bunch of Siberut island trekkers huddled over the photographer, Bone, who was lying on the ground. My face ruins the whole happy feel to the photo though, heh heh!
 
The volcanic crater behind us (Me, Bone, Jurassic Norm) has some interesting shades, maybe due to sulphur deposits. Indonesia : 2329l
The volcanic crater behind us (Me, Bone, Jurassic Norm) has some interesting shades, maybe due to sulphur deposits.
 
The Arg-e-Bam, an excellent fort in Bam. Iran : bu08l
The Arg-e-Bam, an excellent fort in Bam.
 
Emam Khomeini square, the world's second largest (which one is the largest?), is at the center of the great city of Esfahan. Iran : bv05l
Emam Khomeini square, the world's second largest (which one is the largest?), is at the center of the great city of Esfahan.
 
Iran has more liberal policies as far as women go than most of its Moslem neighbours but it is strict on dress.  I bet these three feel nice and cosy in the middle of the summer in the desert, oh yah! Iran : bv09l
Iran has more liberal policies as far as women go than most of its Moslem neighbours but it is strict on dress. I bet these three feel nice and cosy in the middle of the summer in the desert, oh yah!
 
Soon after the Ayatollah Khomeini took over Iran the street behind the British Embassy was renamed to 'Bobby Sands St.' after a famous I.R.A. convict that was elected to the British Parliament while on hunger strike, shortly before he died. Iran : bv27p
Soon after the Ayatollah Khomeini took over Iran the street behind the British Embassy was renamed to 'Bobby Sands St.' after a famous I.R.A. convict that was elected to the British Parliament while on hunger strike, shortly before he died.
 
A 9 storey painting of the American flag in Tehran.  Instead of stars there are skulls, the stripes form the smoke trails of falling bombs and the Farsi below reads 'Marg Bar Amrika' (death to America)!  A fairly direct statement I would say. Iran : bw16p
A 9 storey painting of the American flag in Tehran. Instead of stars there are skulls, the stripes form the smoke trails of falling bombs and the Farsi below reads 'Marg Bar Amrika' (death to America)! A fairly direct statement I would say.
 
Home at last!  The dream is over!  But, hey, at least my Mom was happy it was over.  She didn't know I was coming home so she was quite surprised when she answered the door and found me there.  It took here quite a few seconds to recognise me. Ireland : cc31l
Home at last! The dream is over! But, hey, at least my Mom was happy it was over. She didn't know I was coming home so she was quite surprised when she answered the door and found me there. It took here quite a few seconds to recognise me.
 
My Dad, 83, was happy too. Ireland : cc32p
My Dad, 83, was happy too.
 
Happiest though must have been my surrogate mother, my sister Mary.  And that's all folks ... thanks for watching. Ireland : cc35p
Happiest though must have been my surrogate mother, my sister Mary. And that's all folks ... thanks for watching.
 
An ultra-orthodox Jewish family by the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem. Israel : ca01l
An ultra-orthodox Jewish family by the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem.
 
A typical night scene in the old walled part of Jerusalem. Israel : ca09p
A typical night scene in the old walled part of Jerusalem.
 
The Dead Sea.  Mike Meaney floats at last. Israel : ca14p
The Dead Sea. Mike Meaney floats at last.
 
This is the very spot where Jesus is believed to have been born. Israel : ca22l
This is the very spot where Jesus is believed to have been born.
 
This is believed to be Calgary.  The tomb where Jesus was buried is also within this same church.  As such it should be the most famous church in Christianity but have you heard of the 'Church of the Holy Sepulchre'? Israel : ca29l
This is believed to be Calgary. The tomb where Jesus was buried is also within this same church. As such it should be the most famous church in Christianity but have you heard of the 'Church of the Holy Sepulchre'?
 
Remember the final scene of 'Indian Jones and the Last Crusade'?  Well, it was shot here, at the great city of Petra, built into cliffs by the Nabataeans. Jordan : ca32p
Remember the final scene of 'Indian Jones and the Last Crusade'? Well, it was shot here, at the great city of Petra, built into cliffs by the Nabataeans.
 
The most famous building of Petra is the Treasury building.  There is nothing much except a couple of square bare rooms inside. Jordan : cb08p
The most famous building of Petra is the Treasury building. There is nothing much except a couple of square bare rooms inside.
 
This is the promenade in Beirut. Lebanon : bz19l
This is the promenade in Beirut.
 
Downtown Beirut still has plenty of examples of buildings shot to pieces during the war. Lebanon : bz25p
Downtown Beirut still has plenty of examples of buildings shot to pieces during the war.
 
The Kadisha gorge, the highlight of my three days in Lebanon. Lebanon : bz30l
The Kadisha gorge, the highlight of my three days in Lebanon.
 
The main town square in Macau.  This Portuguese colony is due to be handed over to China on July 1st, 1999. Macau : ab01l
The main town square in Macau. This Portuguese colony is due to be handed over to China on July 1st, 1999.
 
This is a tea plantation in the Cameron Highlands.  Tea only grows in hilly areas. Malaysia : 9a01l
This is a tea plantation in the Cameron Highlands. Tea only grows in hilly areas.
 
The Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur, the world's tallest building (the spires on top unfairly put it ahead of the Sears Tower, Chicago).  Watch out for the newest world's tallest building, the Shanghai World Financial Centre, a truly amazing edifice. Malaysia : 9a08p
The Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur, the world's tallest building (the spires on top unfairly put it ahead of the Sears Tower, Chicago). Watch out for the newest world's tallest building, the Shanghai World Financial Centre, a truly amazing edifice.
 
Nana, my mother's mother. Meaney Family : family/nana
Nana, my mother's mother.
 
A portrait of my mother with pup Jackie on her lap. Meaney Family : family/mam_dog
A portrait of my mother with pup Jackie on her lap.
 
My mother on her graduation day, with a degree in music. Meaney Family : family/mam_graduation
My mother on her graduation day, with a degree in music.
 
Mam and Dad on their wedding day, 1948. Meaney Family : family/mam_dad_posed
Mam and Dad on their wedding day, 1948.
 
Mam and Dad, at the church, wedding day, 1948. Meaney Family : family/mam_dad_wedding
Mam and Dad, at the church, wedding day, 1948.
 
Mam and Dad, wedding day with Margaret Johnston, Uncle Paddy and ???. Meaney Family : family/mam_dad_wedding_5
Mam and Dad, wedding day with Margaret Johnston, Uncle Paddy and ???.
 
The wedding party, 1948. Meaney Family : family/mam_dad_wedding_all
The wedding party, 1948.
 
Nana in the famous fur coat. Meaney Family : family/nana_fur_coat
Nana in the famous fur coat.
 
Dad giving Mary a 'coochy-coo'. Meaney Family : family/dad_mary_pram
Dad giving Mary a 'coochy-coo'.
 
Dad and Mary again.  Keep an eye on the bunny blanket. Meaney Family : family/dad_mary_pram2
Dad and Mary again. Keep an eye on the bunny blanket.
 
Mam, Dad, Mary and nuns. Meaney Family : family/mam_dad_mary_nuns
Mam, Dad, Mary and nuns.
 
Mary, Dad and Aunty Nuala. Meaney Family : family/mary_dad_nun
Mary, Dad and Aunty Nuala.
 
Mary and Mam in a field. Meaney Family : family/mary_mam_field
Mary and Mam in a field.
 
Four generations, Mary, Mam, Nana and Greatnana. Meaney Family : family/mary_mam_nan_greatnan
Four generations, Mary, Mam, Nana and Greatnana.
 
Mary and Nana. Meaney Family : family/mary_nana
Mary and Nana.
 
Nana feeding Mary with Mam in the background. Meaney Family : family/mary_nana_mam_bottle
Nana feeding Mary with Mam in the background.
 
 Meaney Family : family/mary_nuns_arms
 
Mary having fun with Aunty Nuala. Meaney Family : family/mary_nun_fun
Mary having fun with Aunty Nuala.
 
The newly-arrived Brian. Meaney Family : family/brian_pram
The newly-arrived Brian.
 
Mary and Brian.  Bunny blanket is still wearing well. Meaney Family : family/mary_brian_pram
Mary and Brian. Bunny blanket is still wearing well.
 
Brian, an early convert to yoga. Meaney Family : family/brian_pram_toe
Brian, an early convert to yoga.
 
Brian on Aunty Teresa's knee, with Mary in tow. Meaney Family : family/brian_mary_nuns_knee
Brian on Aunty Teresa's knee, with Mary in tow.
 
Brian with parents and Aunty Nuala.  Mary's head is visible in bottom left, an example of how not to take a photo. Meaney Family : family/dad_mam_brian_nun
Brian with parents and Aunty Nuala. Mary's head is visible in bottom left, an example of how not to take a photo.
 
A chubby-cheekd Brian.  Isn't he so cute? Meaney Family : family/brian_chubby_cheeks
A chubby-cheekd Brian. Isn't he so cute?
 
Brian, Joe and Jude at Santy.  Jude looks like his daughter Shannon here. Meaney Family : family/brian_joe_jude_santa
Brian, Joe and Jude at Santy. Jude looks like his daughter Shannon here.
 
Dad, Mam and unknown couple. Meaney Family : family/dad_mam_couple
Dad, Mam and unknown couple.
 
With the Halpin family - 1. Meaney Family : family/family_halpins1
With the Halpin family - 1.
 
With the Halpin family - 2. Meaney Family : family/family_halpins2
With the Halpin family - 2.
 
With the Halpin family - 3. Meaney Family : family/family_halpins3
With the Halpin family - 3.
 
With the Halpin family - 4. Meaney Family : family/family_halpins4
With the Halpin family - 4.
 
Joe's holy communion photo.  Joe is really enjoying it. Meaney Family : family/joe_communion
Joe's holy communion photo. Joe is really enjoying it.
 
Joe must have got a leather ball for his holy communion. Meaney Family : family/joe_communion_ball
Joe must have got a leather ball for his holy communion.
 
The family just looks incomplete to me, what do you think? Meaney Family : family/joe_communion_family
The family just looks incomplete to me, what do you think?
 
Joe's communion day with Granny and Grandpa. Meaney Family : family/joe_communion_granny_family
Joe's communion day with Granny and Grandpa.
 
Joe's communion day with Nana.  In case you were wondering who the star of the whole photo is Jude helpfully points him out. Meaney Family : family/joe_communion_nana_family
Joe's communion day with Nana. In case you were wondering who the star of the whole photo is Jude helpfully points him out.
 
Me, with Santa, 1969. Meaney Family : family/me_christmas69
Me, with Santa, 1969.
 
Me, with Santa, 1971. Meaney Family : family/me_christmas71
Me, with Santa, 1971.
 
Mike's holy communion class. Meaney Family : family/mike_communion_class
Mike's holy communion class.
 
Me and Dominic, graduating from college. Meaney Family : family/me_dom_graduation
Me and Dominic, graduating from college.
 
Mam, Brian and his two eldest, Sinead and Robert. Meaney Family : family/mam_brian_sinead_robert
Mam, Brian and his two eldest, Sinead and Robert.
 
Durbar Square, Kathmandu.  Note that the photos from now on were taken with my new camera, a Canon EOS 50 (aka Elan II) with 24-85mm and 75-300mm lenses, taking over from the awesome but limited Yashica T5 (aka T4 Super D) with 35mm Carl Zeiss fixed lens. Nepal : at05l
Durbar Square, Kathmandu. Note that the photos from now on were taken with my new camera, a Canon EOS 50 (aka Elan II) with 24-85mm and 75-300mm lenses, taking over from the awesome but limited Yashica T5 (aka T4 Super D) with 35mm Carl Zeiss fixed lens.
 
Women huddled together in Durbar Square to watch a festival.  If you look carefully you might spot several nose rings. Nepal : at18p
Women huddled together in Durbar Square to watch a festival. If you look carefully you might spot several nose rings.
 
A valley view on the Everest trek. Nepal : av27l
A valley view on the Everest trek.
 
A view from Kala Pattar, at 18,500 feet.  This peak is the usual objective at the end of the Everest trek with some amazing views.  Everest is not visible in this photo, it would be off towards my right.  Ama Dablam is the peak on the left. Nepal : aw05l
A view from Kala Pattar, at 18,500 feet. This peak is the usual objective at the end of the Everest trek with some amazing views. Everest is not visible in this photo, it would be off towards my right. Ama Dablam is the peak on the left.
 
Another beautiful view south from Kala Pattar over a sea of clouds. Nepal : aw10l
Another beautiful view south from Kala Pattar over a sea of clouds.
 
This was taken on Kala Pattar with Mt. Pumori behind me. Nepal : aw16l
This was taken on Kala Pattar with Mt. Pumori behind me.
 
One of me taken on Gokyo peak with a big mountain in the background. Nepal : ax26p
One of me taken on Gokyo peak with a big mountain in the background.
 
Serious mountain climber! Nepal : ax28p
Serious mountain climber!
 
Non-serious mountain climber! Nepal : ax29p
Non-serious mountain climber!
 
Mt. Everest at last seen from Gokyo Ri. Nepal : ay09p
Mt. Everest at last seen from Gokyo Ri.
 
The view from Gokyo Ri looking down on Gokyo and the lakes.  Gokyo is probably the most interesting part of the Everest trek with the most to see here. Nepal : ay10l
The view from Gokyo Ri looking down on Gokyo and the lakes. Gokyo is probably the most interesting part of the Everest trek with the most to see here.
 
A little waif from the beautiful town of Bhaktapur near Kathmandu. Nepal : ay26p
A little waif from the beautiful town of Bhaktapur near Kathmandu.
 
More Bhaktapur kids. Nepal : az13l
More Bhaktapur kids.
 
No it's not a beached whale, it's my old friend Dominic who joined me for a month in Nepal.  Here he is at the start of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek.  Notice the little girl by the shack ... Nepal : az31p
No it's not a beached whale, it's my old friend Dominic who joined me for a month in Nepal. Here he is at the start of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek. Notice the little girl by the shack ...
 
Another waif. Nepal : az33p
Another waif.
 
This photo was captured using a double exposure.  With my 300mm zoom I photographed the moon and then, on the same frame, took a wide-angle photo of this mountain. Nepal : ba01l
This photo was captured using a double exposure. With my 300mm zoom I photographed the moon and then, on the same frame, took a wide-angle photo of this mountain.
 
When Dom travels to famous places he always feels the need to baptise them with his holy water (or should that be his 'holey' water?).  'I anoint thee Annapurna Sanctuary!.' Nepal : ba08p
When Dom travels to famous places he always feels the need to baptise them with his holy water (or should that be his 'holey' water?). 'I anoint thee Annapurna Sanctuary!.'
 
No it's not chocolate and ice cream, it's a mountain at sunrise. Nepal : ba15l
No it's not chocolate and ice cream, it's a mountain at sunrise.
 
An ice formation at Macchapuchare Base Camp formed while we were snowed in for a day on our way to Annapurna Base Camp. Nepal : ba20l
An ice formation at Macchapuchare Base Camp formed while we were snowed in for a day on our way to Annapurna Base Camp.
 
Ploughing our way in the morning up to Annapurna Base Camp.  Yes, the sky is so blue it's almost black.  I think the photo looks a little unreal because the sky makes it look as if it is night but from my shadow you can see the sun is already quite high. Nepal : ba29p
Ploughing our way in the morning up to Annapurna Base Camp. Yes, the sky is so blue it's almost black. I think the photo looks a little unreal because the sky makes it look as if it is night but from my shadow you can see the sun is already quite high.
 
The reflection in a trekker's glasses. Nepal : ba32l
The reflection in a trekker's glasses.
 
A winter wonderland, the guesthouses of ABC with Macchapuchare in the distance. Nepal : bb03p
A winter wonderland, the guesthouses of ABC with Macchapuchare in the distance.
 
An interesting Annapurna peak. Nepal : bb08l
An interesting Annapurna peak.
 
It's climber extraordinaire Dominic Tynne assessing the possibilities of a newly devised Annapurna south face route! Nepal : bb21p
It's climber extraordinaire Dominic Tynne assessing the possibilities of a newly devised Annapurna south face route!
 
Dominic and I at ABC. Nepal : bb23l
Dominic and I at ABC.
 
On my own a little higher up at ABC. Nepal : bb36l
On my own a little higher up at ABC.
 
Macchapuchare, the fish tail mountain, is sacred and cannot be climbed.  It is seen here at sunset. Nepal : bd06l
Macchapuchare, the fish tail mountain, is sacred and cannot be climbed. It is seen here at sunset.
 
Royal Chitwan National Park is famous for its rhinos which can be safely spotted from elephant back. Nepal : be07p
Royal Chitwan National Park is famous for its rhinos which can be safely spotted from elephant back.
 
A buffalo sacrifice, body on the left, head on the right! Nepal : bf20p
A buffalo sacrifice, body on the left, head on the right!
 
A supposed Sadhu, a holy man that lives completely on the charity of others.  This one survives on looking cute and then demanding 10 rupees if he sees a tourist taking a photo. Nepal : bf26l
A supposed Sadhu, a holy man that lives completely on the charity of others. This one survives on looking cute and then demanding 10 rupees if he sees a tourist taking a photo.
 
Bodhnath, Kathmandu, one of the world's largest stupas (Buddhist monument).  Look carefully at the eyes because ... Nepal : bf31l
Bodhnath, Kathmandu, one of the world's largest stupas (Buddhist monument). Look carefully at the eyes because ...
 
Nyeeargghhh!  What is it???  Don't worry, it's only a double exposure of Dominic and Bodhnath, with their eyes almost perfectly aligned.  And you thought Dominic would be improved if he had Buddha's eyes! Nepal : bf34l
Nyeeargghhh! What is it??? Don't worry, it's only a double exposure of Dominic and Bodhnath, with their eyes almost perfectly aligned. And you thought Dominic would be improved if he had Buddha's eyes!
 
A beautiful shot of the lake by Queenstown, south island.  You can see here why the Maoris called New Zealand 'Aotearoa', Land of the Long White Cloud! New Zealand : 0322l
A beautiful shot of the lake by Queenstown, south island. You can see here why the Maoris called New Zealand 'Aotearoa', Land of the Long White Cloud!
 
An autumn scene in a park. New Zealand : 0326p
An autumn scene in a park.
 
The moment after taking my leave of the Pipeline bungy jump platform, 340ft above the river below. New Zealand : 0406l
The moment after taking my leave of the Pipeline bungy jump platform, 340ft above the river below.
 
A few seconds later I am but a speck.  You can see the boat below that I was then lowered onto and detached from the bungy.  Stats - 4 seconds to end of rope, 2.8 g's pulled, 75mph reached. New Zealand : 0408p
A few seconds later I am but a speck. You can see the boat below that I was then lowered onto and detached from the bungy. Stats - 4 seconds to end of rope, 2.8 g's pulled, 75mph reached.
 
Some glaciers in New Zealand come down nearly to sea level and it's quite easy to go walking on them with a proper guide and equipment. New Zealand : 0432p
Some glaciers in New Zealand come down nearly to sea level and it's quite easy to go walking on them with a proper guide and equipment.
 
Punakaiki pancake rocks, unusual geometrically patterned rock formation on the south island west coast. New Zealand : 0509l
Punakaiki pancake rocks, unusual geometrically patterned rock formation on the south island west coast.
 
This is taken from my tandem skydive from 9,000ft above Taupo, north island. New Zealand : 0612l
This is taken from my tandem skydive from 9,000ft above Taupo, north island.
 
I'm almost to the top of Mt. Ngauruhoe, a volcano in Tongariro National Park. New Zealand : 0631p
I'm almost to the top of Mt. Ngauruhoe, a volcano in Tongariro National Park.
 
Another shot in Tongariro NP with Bart, my companion for the whole of the New Zealand trip. The mountain in the background, Ruapehu, has erupted twice since this picture was taken. New Zealand : 0701l
Another shot in Tongariro NP with Bart, my companion for the whole of the New Zealand trip. The mountain in the background, Ruapehu, has erupted twice since this picture was taken.
 
Volcanic lakes are often vividly coloured, like these green lakes.  A person can be seen just above the second lake. New Zealand : 0706p
Volcanic lakes are often vividly coloured, like these green lakes. A person can be seen just above the second lake.
 
Many spectacular views are but a short walk away off the Karakoram Highway in the north of Pakistan.  Black dirt covers most of the glacier below me. Pakistan : ao22l
Many spectacular views are but a short walk away off the Karakoram Highway in the north of Pakistan. Black dirt covers most of the glacier below me.
 
There are some interesting bridges like this one near Passu.  At a fast pace it took a full ten minutes for me to cross this one. Pakistan : ao26l
There are some interesting bridges like this one near Passu. At a fast pace it took a full ten minutes for me to cross this one.
 
A full-frontal of the bridge. Pakistan : ao27p
A full-frontal of the bridge.
 
The view from Abdegar, a stiff hike from Passu (the green area to the right across the river), with a great view of the opposing mountains and glacier. Pakistan : ao34p
The view from Abdegar, a stiff hike from Passu (the green area to the right across the river), with a great view of the opposing mountains and glacier.
 
The Hunza valley is a beautiful sight when viewed from Eagle's Nest.  Mt. Rakaposhi. 7,788m, is visible (overexposed) in the centre. Pakistan : ap02l
The Hunza valley is a beautiful sight when viewed from Eagle's Nest. Mt. Rakaposhi. 7,788m, is visible (overexposed) in the centre.
 
This mountain lake was so clear that you can see down to its colourful bottom. Pakistan : ap32p
This mountain lake was so clear that you can see down to its colourful bottom.
 
This bus is decorated in a fashion typical of Pakistani buses and trucks. Pakistan : bu04l
This bus is decorated in a fashion typical of Pakistani buses and trucks.
 
The beautiful beach at Unawatuna on the southwest coast. Sri Lanka : bn36l
The beautiful beach at Unawatuna on the southwest coast.
 
The delightful hill country of Sri Lanka is carpeted with picturesque tea estates. Sri Lanka : bo16l
The delightful hill country of Sri Lanka is carpeted with picturesque tea estates.
 
These elephants are all orphans, victims of poaching.  They are cared for at a special centre. Sri Lanka : bo25l
These elephants are all orphans, victims of poaching. They are cared for at a special centre.
 
Here I am in Palmyra emulating that famous statue of a discus thrower.  How did I do? Syria : by36l
Here I am in Palmyra emulating that famous statue of a discus thrower. How did I do?
 
The beautiful spot of West Railay beach near the town of Krabi. Thailand : 9a27p
The beautiful spot of West Railay beach near the town of Krabi.
 
East and West Railay beaches.  This area has one of Thailand's most beautiful beaches, is a rock climbers paradise and though on the mainland the beaches cannot be reached overland due to high mountains cutting them off. Thailand : 9a28l
East and West Railay beaches. This area has one of Thailand's most beautiful beaches, is a rock climbers paradise and though on the mainland the beaches cannot be reached overland due to high mountains cutting them off.
 
Little waterfalls in a Thai park. Thailand : 9b07p
Little waterfalls in a Thai park.
 
The Vegetarian festival in southern Thailand, apart from featuring great vegetarian food, is also the host of some weird religious parades and displays of self-mutilation!  Party on ... Thailand : 9b13p
The Vegetarian festival in southern Thailand, apart from featuring great vegetarian food, is also the host of some weird religious parades and displays of self-mutilation! Party on ...
 
This barbed-wire-wrapped guy is in a trance.  His friend looks like he's in a bit of a state as well. Thailand : 9b14p
This barbed-wire-wrapped guy is in a trance. His friend looks like he's in a bit of a state as well.
 
This unusual limestone rock is featured in the final scenes of the Bond outing 'The Man With the Golden Gun.' Thailand : 9b29p
This unusual limestone rock is featured in the final scenes of the Bond outing 'The Man With the Golden Gun.'
 
Here I got up close and personal with an inmate of Bangkok's snake farm. Thailand : 9c10l
Here I got up close and personal with an inmate of Bangkok's snake farm.
 
I guess I'm not showing much respect here, doing a take-off of Buddha. Thailand : 9d18p
I guess I'm not showing much respect here, doing a take-off of Buddha.
 
Sukhothai is an ancient archaeoligical site, full of great temples, in the centre of Thailand.  Here it is at sunset. Thailand : 9d22l
Sukhothai is an ancient archaeoligical site, full of great temples, in the centre of Thailand. Here it is at sunset.
 
The north of Thailand is home to various hill tribes.  Here is one woman with her baby carried in a traditional sling. Thailand : 9f26p
The north of Thailand is home to various hill tribes. Here is one woman with her baby carried in a traditional sling.
 
This woman is from a hill tribe that is big into silver would you believe? Thailand : 9g02p
This woman is from a hill tribe that is big into silver would you believe?
 
A woody, shady lane. Thailand : 9g12l
A woody, shady lane.
 
Ancient Sukhothai is all lit up for the festival of lights, Loy Krathong. Thailand : 9h03l
Ancient Sukhothai is all lit up for the festival of lights, Loy Krathong.
 
The finale of Loy Krathong, the festival of lights, is a sound and light show with many participants and plenty of fireworks. Thailand : 9h28l
The finale of Loy Krathong, the festival of lights, is a sound and light show with many participants and plenty of fireworks.
 
Near the Hilton Hotel, Bangkok, is this temple of fertility, filled with interesting statues, by none of which I was intimidated! Thailand : 9i08l
Near the Hilton Hotel, Bangkok, is this temple of fertility, filled with interesting statues, by none of which I was intimidated!
 
Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, which lies along the Chao Phraya river that runs through Bangkok.  Thailand : 9i18l
Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, which lies along the Chao Phraya river that runs through Bangkok.
 
Patpong, Bangkok's infamous red light district, is a tourist shoppers paradise as well as home to some, er, interesting clubs. Thailand : 9i21l
Patpong, Bangkok's infamous red light district, is a tourist shoppers paradise as well as home to some, er, interesting clubs.
 
How many women are in this photo?  None! Thailand : 9i23p
How many women are in this photo? None!
 
A golden statue in the grounds of the fabulous Grand Palace of Bangkok. Thailand : 9i26p
A golden statue in the grounds of the fabulous Grand Palace of Bangkok.
 
Ornate golden door, Grand Palace, Bangkok. Thailand : 9i28p
Ornate golden door, Grand Palace, Bangkok.
 
Some unusual trees at the Grand Palace. Thailand : 9j02p
Some unusual trees at the Grand Palace.
 
Here I am trying to tune in Radio Bangkok. Thailand : 9j10l
Here I am trying to tune in Radio Bangkok.
 
An unusual tree with a Buddha face in it. Thailand : 9j12l
An unusual tree with a Buddha face in it.
 
Some statues in the strange Hindu-Buddhist sculpture garden at Sala Ku Kaew. Thailand : 9j25l
Some statues in the strange Hindu-Buddhist sculpture garden at Sala Ku Kaew.
 
My camera for the first year had a fixed 35mm zoom lens, pretty useless for wildlife photography but this lizard stayed still even when I got within a foot of it allowing me to get this photo. Thailand : 9k05l
My camera for the first year had a fixed 35mm zoom lens, pretty useless for wildlife photography but this lizard stayed still even when I got within a foot of it allowing me to get this photo.
 
The beautiful Erawan Falls national park is a myriad of cascading falls and emerald pools, one of the best places I visited in Thailand. Thailand : 9k17p
The beautiful Erawan Falls national park is a myriad of cascading falls and emerald pools, one of the best places I visited in Thailand.
 
The roof of the great Jokhang Temple, Lhasa.  It is Tibet's most sacred place of worship. Tibet : aj12l
The roof of the great Jokhang Temple, Lhasa. It is Tibet's most sacred place of worship.
 
From the roof of the Jokhang Temple you can see over to the Potala Palace. Tibet : aj19l
From the roof of the Jokhang Temple you can see over to the Potala Palace.
 
The Potala Palace, Lhasa, the winter residence of the Dalai Lama.  One of the world's greatest buildings. Tibet : aj20l
The Potala Palace, Lhasa, the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. One of the world's greatest buildings.
 
The remarkable leathery faces of pilgrims at a religious festival in the hills near Lhasa. Tibet : ak07l
The remarkable leathery faces of pilgrims at a religious festival in the hills near Lhasa.
 
Notice the woman on the right and see why people think Native Americans came from the Asia, maybe even from Tibet! Tibet : ak08l
Notice the woman on the right and see why people think Native Americans came from the Asia, maybe even from Tibet!
 
Prayer flags encompass a view of the Potala. Tibet : ak12l
Prayer flags encompass a view of the Potala.
 
The Tibetan Everest base camp at 5,200 metres (18,100 feet).  It is possible to drive up all the way to it, our Landcruiser can be seen on the right. Tibet : al38l
The Tibetan Everest base camp at 5,200 metres (18,100 feet). It is possible to drive up all the way to it, our Landcruiser can be seen on the right.
 
From the world's highest monastery can be seen the dramatic north face of Mt. Everest (a tad overexposed on this shot). Tibet : am02l
From the world's highest monastery can be seen the dramatic north face of Mt. Everest (a tad overexposed on this shot).
 
A view from Tingri, 4,000m.  The triangular peak a little to the right of the chimney is Everest.  This is the view of Everest that you get from the famous toilet. Tibet : am09l
A view from Tingri, 4,000m. The triangular peak a little to the right of the chimney is Everest. This is the view of Everest that you get from the famous toilet.
 
The red building is part of a monastery.  The white structure beside it is a communal toilet.  Imagine 15 monks using that at the same time! Tibet : am23p
The red building is part of a monastery. The white structure beside it is a communal toilet. Imagine 15 monks using that at the same time!
 
Two dogs in Shigatse, Tibet's second largest town. Tibet : am26l
Two dogs in Shigatse, Tibet's second largest town.
 
The Flintstone landscape of Cappadocia.  People made their homes within the rock. Turkey : bx05p
The Flintstone landscape of Cappadocia. People made their homes within the rock.
 
Cappadocia. Turkey : bx06l
Cappadocia.
 
You can see here various windows in the rock, the local people carved their way inside and all the way up and lived in these rocks Flintstone-style! Turkey : bx08l
You can see here various windows in the rock, the local people carved their way inside and all the way up and lived in these rocks Flintstone-style!
 
Some of the rocks in Cappadocia have interesting shapes. Turkey : bx14l
Some of the rocks in Cappadocia have interesting shapes.
 
In Pammukale you'll find these interesting lime formations. At the top left are pools (they're actually quite large though they don't look it here) that you could once bathe in, spa-style, until the authorities recently stopped it due to damage to the rock. Turkey : bx22l
In Pammukale you'll find these interesting lime formations. At the top left are pools (they're actually quite large though they don't look it here) that you could once bathe in, spa-style, until the authorities recently stopped it due to damage to the rock.
 
Ephesus is said to be the best preserved Roman ruins on the Mediterranean. Turkey : bx25p
Ephesus is said to be the best preserved Roman ruins on the Mediterranean.
 
I'm in Istanbul here posing in front of the Blue Mosque (it's blue on the inside silly, I know it's grey on the outside, sheeesh!). Turkey : bx35l
I'm in Istanbul here posing in front of the Blue Mosque (it's blue on the inside silly, I know it's grey on the outside, sheeesh!).
 
I took this photo with an 8 second exposure at the Chimaera, a natural eternal flame that sprouts from a hillside near Olympos and which apparently cannot be extinguished (the gas reignites by itself if the flame is quenched, scientists are not sure how).  Ben, second from left, gets the prize for staying the stillest! Turkey : by12l
I took this photo with an 8 second exposure at the Chimaera, a natural eternal flame that sprouts from a hillside near Olympos and which apparently cannot be extinguished (the gas reignites by itself if the flame is quenched, scientists are not sure how). Ben, second from left, gets the prize for staying the stillest!
 
Looking up at the roof of a slot canyon called Antelope Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/AntelopeCanyonPanorama_l
Looking up at the roof of a slot canyon called Antelope Canyon
 
Jackie and I in Antelope Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/AntelopeCanyonUs_p
Jackie and I in Antelope Canyon
 
The beautiful contours on the wall of Antelope Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/AntelopeCanyonWall_l
The beautiful contours on the wall of Antelope Canyon
 
Another view of the slot canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/AntelopeCanyon_p
Another view of the slot canyon
 
Jackie and I on the Californian coast, south of Big Sur USA - Southwest : southwest/BigSurUsPanorama_l
Jackie and I on the Californian coast, south of Big Sur
 
Coast of California south of Big Sur USA - Southwest : southwest/BigSur_l
Coast of California south of Big Sur
 
The hoodoos (rock formations) in Bryce Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/BryceHoodoosOnly_l
The hoodoos (rock formations) in Bryce Canyon
 
Jackie observing the spectacle of Bryce USA - Southwest : southwest/BryceJackieHoodoos_l
Jackie observing the spectacle of Bryce
 
Me on my 34th birthday wearing my 'I'm The Best There Is But I'm Not Available' t-shirt. USA - Southwest : southwest/BryceMikeBestThereIs_p
Me on my 34th birthday wearing my 'I'm The Best There Is But I'm Not Available' t-shirt.
 
A Bryce panorama USA - Southwest : southwest/BryceMikePanorama_l
A Bryce panorama
 
A rainbow above Bryce Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/BryceRainbow_p
A rainbow above Bryce Canyon
 
Switchbacks down a trail into Bryce USA - Southwest : southwest/BryceSwitchbacks_p
Switchbacks down a trail into Bryce
 
A hoodoo called Thor's Hammer USA - Southwest : southwest/BryceThorsHammer_p
A hoodoo called Thor's Hammer
 
Jackie and I at Bryce USA - Southwest : southwest/BryceUsHoodoos_l
Jackie and I at Bryce
 
Bucky, Paul and Linda's dog.  Called after Buckminster Fuller, this dog can play soccer! USA - Southwest : southwest/Bucky_p
Bucky, Paul and Linda's dog. Called after Buckminster Fuller, this dog can play soccer!
 
Jackie on the cracked and dry mud of Death Valley USA - Southwest : southwest/DeathValleyJackieSaltLake_p
Jackie on the cracked and dry mud of Death Valley
 
The sand dunes of Death Valley USA - Southwest : southwest/DeathValleyMikeDunes_l
The sand dunes of Death Valley
 
Roads don't come much straighter than this, Death Valley, California USA - Southwest : southwest/DeathValleyRoad_l
Roads don't come much straighter than this, Death Valley, California
 
View from Zabriskie Point, Death Valley USA - Southwest : southwest/DeathValleyZabriskiePt_l
View from Zabriskie Point, Death Valley
 
A classic view of Grand Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/GrandCanyonClassic2_l
A classic view of Grand Canyon
 
Another classic view of Grand Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/GrandCanyonClassic_l
Another classic view of Grand Canyon
 
Jackie at Grand Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/GrandCanyonJackieFromBelow_l
Jackie at Grand Canyon
 
Daredevil Jackie perched on the edge of the canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/GrandCanyonJackieLedge_p
Daredevil Jackie perched on the edge of the canyon
 
A Grand Canyon and Jackie panorama USA - Southwest : southwest/GrandCanyonJackiePanorama_l
A Grand Canyon and Jackie panorama
 
Another Grand Canyon and Jackie Panorama USA - Southwest : southwest/GrandCanyonJackiePanorama2_l
Another Grand Canyon and Jackie Panorama
 
Jackie on the edge again USA - Southwest : southwest/GrandCanyonJackieSeated_l
Jackie on the edge again
 
The two of us at Grand Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/GrandCanyonJackieUsTree_l
The two of us at Grand Canyon
 
Jackie and Grand Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/GrandCanyonJackie_l
Jackie and Grand Canyon
 
Grand Canyon and Mike USA - Southwest : southwest/GrandCanyonMike_l
Grand Canyon and Mike
 
Rock faces of Grand Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/GrandCanyonRockFace_l
Rock faces of Grand Canyon
 
The Hollywood sign USA - Southwest : southwest/LosAngelesJackieHollywoodSign_p
The Hollywood sign
 
Jackie and her second favourite person, Mel Gibson USA - Southwest : southwest/LosAngelesJackieMelHand_l
Jackie and her second favourite person, Mel Gibson
 
Mike and the second toughest person in the world, Clint Eastwood USA - Southwest : southwest/LosAngelesMikeClintHand_p
Mike and the second toughest person in the world, Clint Eastwood
 
Jackie in a sequoia tree, Mariposa Grove, Yosemite USA - Southwest : southwest/MariposaJackieTelescope_p
Jackie in a sequoia tree, Mariposa Grove, Yosemite
 
Roots of a falled sequoia, Mariposa Grove, Yosemite USA - Southwest : southwest/MariposaUsRoots_l
Roots of a falled sequoia, Mariposa Grove, Yosemite
 
Seagull down Mexico way USA - Southwest : southwest/MexicoSeagull_l
Seagull down Mexico way
 
Paul, Linda and the two of us in Mexico USA - Southwest : southwest/MexicoUsPaulLinda_l
Paul, Linda and the two of us in Mexico
 
Mono Lake, east of Yosemite USA - Southwest : southwest/MonoLake_l
Mono Lake, east of Yosemite
 
Mono Lake, east of Yosemite USA - Southwest : southwest/MonoLake_p
Mono Lake, east of Yosemite
 
Jellyfish in the Monterey Bay Aquarium USA - Southwest : southwest/MontereyJellyfish_p
Jellyfish in the Monterey Bay Aquarium
 
Tori, Linda's African Grey parrot USA - Southwest : southwest/SanDiegoTori_p
Tori, Linda's African Grey parrot
 
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco USA - Southwest : southwest/SanFranciscoGoldenGate_l
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
 
Us at Lombard Street, San Francisco, twistiest street in the world USA - Southwest : southwest/SanFranciscoUsLombardSt_p
Us at Lombard Street, San Francisco, twistiest street in the world
 
The Sierra Nevada mountains that run down through California USA - Southwest : southwest/SierraNevadas_l
The Sierra Nevada mountains that run down through California
 
New York, New York casino, Las Vegas USA - Southwest : southwest/VegasNewYork_l
New York, New York casino, Las Vegas
 
Paris Paris casino, Las Vegas USA - Southwest : southwest/VegasParis_l
Paris Paris casino, Las Vegas
 
Stratosphere, Las Vegas USA - Southwest : southwest/VegasStratosphere_p
Stratosphere, Las Vegas
 
Jackie and I in Las Vegas USA - Southwest : southwest/VegasUs_p
Jackie and I in Las Vegas
 
The canal in the Venetian casino USA - Southwest : southwest/VegasVenetianCanal_l
The canal in the Venetian casino
 
The entrance hall of the Venetian casino USA - Southwest : southwest/VegasVenetianHall_l
The entrance hall of the Venetian casino
 
Jackie and Yosemite USA - Southwest : southwest/YosemiteJackieHalfDome_l
Jackie and Yosemite
 
Jackie USA - Southwest : southwest/YosemiteJackieTall_p
Jackie
 
Moss covered trees, Yosemite USA - Southwest : southwest/YosemiteMoss_p
Moss covered trees, Yosemite
 
Yosemite Point with Half Dome in the background USA - Southwest : southwest/YosemitePointUs_l
Yosemite Point with Half Dome in the background
 
A sunset panorama, Yosemite USA - Southwest : southwest/YosemiteSunsetPanorama_l
A sunset panorama, Yosemite
 
The only water that was falling in Yosemite, Vernal Falls USA - Southwest : southwest/YosemiteUsVernalFalls_p
The only water that was falling in Yosemite, Vernal Falls
 
Yosemite Valley USA - Southwest : southwest/YosemiteValleyPanorama_l
Yosemite Valley
 
The narrow ascent to Angel's Landing, Zion USA - Southwest : southwest/ZionAngelsLanding_p
The narrow ascent to Angel's Landing, Zion
 
Jackie atop Angel's Landing USA - Southwest : southwest/ZionJackieAngelsLanding_l
Jackie atop Angel's Landing
 
Beneath Angel's Landing looking out on Zion Canyon USA - Southwest : southwest/ZionJackieCanyon_l
Beneath Angel's Landing looking out on Zion Canyon
 
Jackie climbing to Angel's Landing USA - Southwest : southwest/ZionJackieChain2_p
Jackie climbing to Angel's Landing
 
Jackie and the chains USA - Southwest : southwest/ZionJackieChain_l
Jackie and the chains
 
Zion panorama USA - Southwest : southwest/ZionUsPanorama_l
Zion panorama
 
April 5th 1996, the day before taking off on the trip. I took it easy with Andy and Paul in Paul's pool.  Remember those faces ... USA - San Diego : 0130l
April 5th 1996, the day before taking off on the trip. I took it easy with Andy and Paul in Paul's pool. Remember those faces ...
 
You must now match the faces in the previous photo with the, er, cheeks here. Can you guess which one is mine? USA - San Diego : 0131l
You must now match the faces in the previous photo with the, er, cheeks here. Can you guess which one is mine?
 
The Mekong Delta provides sustenance for millions of Vietnamese who live amongst its network of small rivers.  Notice the child's cool haircut. Vietnam : 9p36l
The Mekong Delta provides sustenance for millions of Vietnamese who live amongst its network of small rivers. Notice the child's cool haircut.
 
Bunches of incense sticks drying in the sun. Vietnam : 9q11l
Bunches of incense sticks drying in the sun.
 
Mmmm hmmm, appetising snake flesh!  Finger lickin' good. Vietnam : 9q18l
Mmmm hmmm, appetising snake flesh! Finger lickin' good.
 
This is a typical boat used on the Mekong Delta.  The boat's rowing system allows the woman to get her full body weight behind the stroke (as long as she keeps her balance!). Vietnam : 9q29l
This is a typical boat used on the Mekong Delta. The boat's rowing system allows the woman to get her full body weight behind the stroke (as long as she keeps her balance!).
 
Here I am with a friendly one year old python, already 55lbs in weight. Vietnam : 9q33p
Here I am with a friendly one year old python, already 55lbs in weight.
 
The Great Cao Dai Temple, Tay Ninh.  Caodaism is a fusion of a number of religions and they employ a Catholic hierarchy, you'll notice the bishops and cardinals etc. sitting down the front!  One of the Westerners they revere is Victor Hugo (Les Miserables)! Vietnam : 9r11p
The Great Cao Dai Temple, Tay Ninh. Caodaism is a fusion of a number of religions and they employ a Catholic hierarchy, you'll notice the bishops and cardinals etc. sitting down the front! One of the Westerners they revere is Victor Hugo (Les Miserables)!
 
There are many nice beaches along Vietnam's coast, here's one (can't remember where though, oops). Vietnam : 9s15l
There are many nice beaches along Vietnam's coast, here's one (can't remember where though, oops).
 
The hats worn here are typical of Vietnam and are rarely seen outside of this country. Vietnam : 9s28l
The hats worn here are typical of Vietnam and are rarely seen outside of this country.
 
This photo is taken near Ninh Binh where waterlogged rice fields nestle up to tall limestone hills. Vietnam : 9u30l
This photo is taken near Ninh Binh where waterlogged rice fields nestle up to tall limestone hills.
 
Ninh Binh is the site of some extensive karst landscape, a geological formation of limestone rock, the same as Ireland's Burren region. Vietnam : 9v08l
Ninh Binh is the site of some extensive karst landscape, a geological formation of limestone rock, the same as Ireland's Burren region.
 
In Sapa I was presented with this lovely bouquet of marijuana!  No wonder I'm smiling. Vietnam : 9v18l
In Sapa I was presented with this lovely bouquet of marijuana! No wonder I'm smiling.
 
I am just after buying a new hat from this hill tribeswoman. Vietnam : 9v19l
I am just after buying a new hat from this hill tribeswoman.
 
A H'mong girl.  The three marks on her forehead are from a traditional healing treatment.  A flame is used to create a vacuum in a glass that is upturned and placed on the skin, the vacuum causing blood to be pulled to the surface.  This girl was probably suffering from headaches. Vietnam : 9w02p
A H'mong girl. The three marks on her forehead are from a traditional healing treatment. A flame is used to create a vacuum in a glass that is upturned and placed on the skin, the vacuum causing blood to be pulled to the surface. This girl was probably suffering from headaches.
 
The Sunday market at Bac Ha near Sapa is a riot of colourful hill tribespeople.  Here is two of their colourful children. Vietnam : 9w24p
The Sunday market at Bac Ha near Sapa is a riot of colourful hill tribespeople. Here is two of their colourful children.
 
Colourfully dressed women shopping for colourful dresses. Vietnam : 9w26p
Colourfully dressed women shopping for colourful dresses.
 
Asians have been carrying babies on their backs for thousands of years, long before Westerners cottoned on to the idea. Vietnam : 9w29p
Asians have been carrying babies on their backs for thousands of years, long before Westerners cottoned on to the idea.
 
From a valley near Sapa you look down on waterlogged rice fields cut into the hillside. Vietnam : 9x11l
From a valley near Sapa you look down on waterlogged rice fields cut into the hillside.
 
The sinking sun reflects off the rice terraces. Vietnam : 9x25l
The sinking sun reflects off the rice terraces.
 

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