Want to See My Pictures?

As can be seen from previous blog posts, I love traveling and have had some wonderful trips.  Not only do I find I love taking in the beautiful landscapes, hold my breath and try to photograph as I see new exotic creatures, enjoy paradise-like beaches and warm ocean water, and drink in new cultures,  I also find a kindling of interest in history and contemplate what possessed historical figures of the past to do the things they did.  I have studied up on the historical background of pre and post Roman history in Italy, familiarized myself with the monarchs of Scotland and England and the times they lived in, and read up on the important figures that influenced apartheid in South Africa, as well as the events that lead to it's downfall.  I visited Zimbabwe and witnessed how one of the richest countries in Africa destroyed itself politically and economically through independence and the support of a corrupt and ruthless leader in Robert Mugabe.

2014 was an amazing year for me in terms of travel.  In February my wife and I spent four weeks in Costa Rica, staying in three very different locations, including one house tucked into the jungle that was open on all sides, where all the walls, including the one separating the bathroom and shower from the sitting area and kitchen, were no more than five feet high.  As a wildlife lover, I was in awe of all the wildlife, mostly birds and monkeys, that I saw.

I unexpectantly got an opportunity to accompany my sister on a trip to South Africa in May, where we did a long safari trip that took us through Kruger National Park in South Africa, Zimbabwe, including Victoria Falls, and Botswana.  This was my dream vacation and it did not disappoint. 

In September, some family members took a trip to England, doing a one week walking tour of the Cotswolds, as well as an eight day bus tour through England, Wales, and Scotland.  A very different trip from Costa Rica or Southern Africa!  What shocks me every time again is the lack of interest we come up against.  Very few friends every ask one question about the trip beyond, "Did you have a good time?"  I visited one long time friend shortly after the Africa trip, and the trip was not discussed at all.  Only a small handful of people have ever asked and seen pictures of the trip, and some of those flipped through them like they were shuffling a deck of cards.  This is more insulting than not asking to see them at all.  It seems that for those whose travel is restricted to nearby locales, there is little interest in broadening horizons.  I love hearing about other people's experiences overseas.  Not only is it educational, but helps me consider whether this may be a future destination I should look into.

I don't think my experience is all that different from other travelers.  Recently I had to go see my cardiologist.  His office was adorned with many gorgeous photos of African wildlife.  I asked where he had been, (Namibia), and commented on the photos.  He immediately perked up, and when the session was over, he asked if I had a few minutes.  He then showed me some of the photos on his computer that he was very proud of, including a pride of lions with a kill, and a leopard with an antelope dangling from a tree branch.  He clearly was excited that someone showed an interest. 

I am a photograph buff.  As I travel and experience many interesting and unique events, I try hard to capture my experiences with photos, and often when I learn new interesting facts, I can't wait to share these with people back home.  However, seldom does it happen. 

I like to think that the reaction I get most is not due to jealousy.  There may be apathy but for the most part it is because my experiences do not touch them.  Perhaps it is like how I feel when friends pull out a wad of pictures of grandchildren and want to show you, slowly, each inane thing these kids are doing.  I have to remind myself that each trip is an experience I will treasure and learn from, but will probably not influence anyone else.  The photos I take are my record of the trip, for my viewing pleasure, and if anyone else decides they may enjoy seeing them, that is a bonus.