LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH

It’s the pits. Especially if you’re into the great outdoors. I can hit up the UK’s biggest national park in less than an hour, or take a detour to the coast. And then there’s the nearby wilderness, perfect for a stroll or snapping pics of my favorite short-eared owls (still no luck with that elusive wild haggis, but I ain’t giving up). Loads of castles to wander through. Bag a ‘Munro’ or two, soak in the view from the top. Head out on a coastal road trip, catch the sunset on Skye. No way anyone’s bribing me back to England, let alone London. Not much to say about nightlife. Been […]

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Once again, nature and animals have conspired to enact a miracle. Roberto Bubas, an Argentine wildlife ranger, found himself captivated by the world of orcas, leading to a profoundly special friendship. One day, as he was engrossed in observing the nature of orcas from the beach, a pod of orcas approached the shore, releasing a pile of seaweed from their mouths. Without hesitation, Roberto retrieved the seaweed, crumpled it, and flung it back into the sea. Remarkably, the killer whales, much like obedient dogs, fetched the ball of algae and brought it back to shore. From that singular moment onward, Bubas forged an unbreakable bond with these majestic creatures, often […]

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The manager stands on the pier of a small remote fishing village, gazing out at the sea. They watch as a small boat approaches the shore. Upon the boat’s landing, the manager is impressed by the large quantity of tuna loaded on board. They bless the fisherman and inquire, “How long did it take to catch these?” The fisherman replies, “Not long at all. Just a few hours.” The manager looks slightly puzzled. “Why don’t you stay out at sea longer? You could catch even more fish!” The fisherman explains that he caught enough fish to feed his family for several days. The manager asks, “So, what do you do […]

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Is there a way to survive without money? Here are some tips for living without money: Make a plan 1 Before deciding to live without spending money, try reducing your expenses. Living without money is a transformative decision, especially if you live with or support others. To see if living without money suits you, start small by spending a week or a month without spending any money. There are many ways to reduce expenses in daily life. Even if you don’t decide to switch completely to cashless payments, these techniques can help you save money. If you live in an area where you can commute on foot or by bike, […]

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Is it possible to converse with whales? There’s an ambitious project aiming to interpret the vocalizations of sperm whales using artificial intelligence and engage in conversations. “I don’t know much about whales. I’ve never seen one in my life,” says Michael Bronstein, an Israeli computer scientist teaching at Imperial College London. Despite not being an ideal candidate for projects involving whale communication, his expertise in machine learning could be key to an ambitious endeavor formally launched in March 2020. An interdisciplinary group of scientists is attempting to decode the language of marine mammals using AI. If successful, the CETI project (Cetacean Translation Initiative) would mark the first time we truly […]

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To embark on a minimalist lifestyle, what should one do? Because I have nothing, I feel like I have everything. Take a moment to ponder that… In recent times, minimalism has garnered significant attention, and the reason is quite straightforward. Despite our immense wealth and comfort, people in Western societies are not happier than before. This is largely due to our intense culture of consumption. Since realizing that “things” are not the key to happiness, we have begun to search for better ways. This has led us to minimalism. So… I’ve been calling myself a minimalist for about 5 years now. Before delving deeper, there’s something I want to clarify. […]

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Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela The Beginning of the Pilgrimage Jim arrives at the Gare de Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in Paris – April 25, 2016 Excited pilgrims, though on the verge of getting lost, embark on their journey The First Signpost of the Pilgrimage Departure from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port The Castle Walls Walking within the walls Gateway to the journey Gate of the Clock Tower Pilgrim’s Passport Pilgrim’s Passport – Note the option to walk Location of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France Stamping the passport Day 1 (April 27, 2016) The path from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is challenging. It ascends about 800 meters in 7 kilometers. The path is quiet, with only the sound of my trekking poles, […]

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Venturing through Siberia on a bicycle, what does it feel like? An extreme adventure of a lone man traversing the frozen Siberia on a bicycle. Lorenzo Barone, a 23-year-old from Italy, is currently heading towards the remote village of Yurong Kaya, located on the world’s northernmost road. He braved the depths of Siberia in midwinter, challenging the limits of possibility. Lorenzo Barone, the 23-year-old Italian, embarked on an extreme challenge of cycling over 2,000 kilometers on one of the world’s coldest roads, where temperatures plunge below -50°C. Starting from Magadan in mid-January (10,200 kilometers east of Moscow) on his bicycle, he completed a 52-day journey in complete solitude, crossing one […]

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In the vastness of the Bering Sea, where the cold bites deeper than the hounds of hell, they say crab fishing’s the toughest gig on God’s green Earth. Is it really? Alaska’s Bering Sea Fishermen: Living on the Edge Tough? Nah, it’s just another stroll through paradise, ain’t it? The Bering Sea serves up two crab seasons a year, one for king crabs and one for snow crabs. Arnold would venture out multiple times during these 1 to 2-month seasons. Typically, he’d set sail 1 or 2 times for king crab and 3 to 5 times for snow crab. Positioned between Russia’s Far East and Alaska, the Bering Sea dances […]

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In the realm of amateurs, what are the odds of surviving a K2 climb? Zero. Your chances are zero. In fact, they’re so close to zero that it’s akin to constructing a rocket to launch yourself into orbit using only tools and materials from Home Depot. I’ve climbed 14,000-foot mountains multiple times, spent countless days in the outdoors, taught wilderness first aid, have a decent grasp of basic glacier travel techniques, and know the fundamentals of snow and ice climbing. I’ve experienced temperatures dropping to -40 degrees where I live and have worked outside in conditions below -25 degrees. Amateurs not only lack such experiences and knowledge but also don’t […]

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I find myself in a state of unemployment, financial hardship, and looming baldness, residing under my parents’ roof as I approach the milestone of thirty. I am devoid of companionship, submerged in the depths of depression and misery. How, amidst this despair, can I possibly engineer a turnaround in my fortunes? Consider this simple yet transformative task that can reshape the contours of your life in a mere two hours. Take nine sheets of A4 paper. On the title page, inscribe: “My Book of a Magnificent Life” By [Your Name] Page 1 Adorn this page with your most radiant photograph. Pen down your life’s vision, painting a portrait of excellence […]

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Ever wonder about Skateboard history and its roots? It was the 1950s, the golden age of boredom. California surfers were grumpy without waves. They craved something to replicate the thrill of gliding on water. So, what did these bored surfers do in this electrifying era? They got creative, of course. They slapped roller skate wheels onto wooden boxes. And just like that, the world witnessed the birth of the first “sidewalk surfboard.” It’s a tale of human ingenuity and desperation, truly mind-blowing stuff. But hey, no rush, right? Those early skateboards were hard to ride, unstable, and wildly unpredictable. They seemed more like weapons than modes of transportation. But in […]

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Euthanasia: Why do dogs live shorter lives than humans? A veterinarian was called to examine Belker, a 10-year-old Irish Setter. Belker’s owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their young son Shane were deeply attached to Belker and were hoping for a miracle. The veterinarian examined Belker and discovered that he was dying from cancer. Unable to do anything for Belker, the vet offered to perform euthanasia for the dog at their home. Arrangements were made, and Ron and Lisa felt it would be good for their 6-year-old son to witness the procedure and learn from the experience. They believed that Shane could learn something valuable from it. The next day, […]

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In the quiet dawn of awakening, with Self-esteem as my guiding light, I embrace the day ahead. A night of rest brings forth a refreshed spirit, unburdened by the weight of yesterday’s worries. Awakened at 6 am, feeling refreshed after a good night’s sleep. Freed from pressure, a profound sense of relief washed over. Stepped outside, embracing the gentle breeze, the melody of birdsong, and the rustle of leaves. Placed water out for thirsty birds, a sense of accomplishment bloomed. Recalled numerous golden memories, realizing the depth of personal growth with a smile. Settled onto the sofa, delving into the morning paper. As his wife stirred awake, cheek pinched and […]

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When a mistake is made, There is a beautiful tradition among a tribe in Africa: If someone commits a harmful act or makes a mistake, they take that person to the center of the village, where the entire tribe gathers around them. For two days, they tell the person about the good things they have done. This tribe believes that all humans are born into this world as good beings. We all seek safety, love, peace, and happiness. However, people sometimes make mistakes in their pursuit of these things. This community sees those mistakes as cries for help. They then come together and, to make it right, they remind the […]

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The Longest Train Journey in the World – From Portugal to Vietnam Inspired by my experience traveling part of the Silk Road by train, I’ve developed a keen desire to explore more train journeys. Just imagine the excitement I felt when I first learned about the world’s longest train journey. Trains are truly underrated as a fulfilling mode of travel. Unlike planes, you can enjoy ever-changing landscapes like towering mountains, vast meadows, charming rivers, and quaint towns as they pass by. Allow me to introduce you to a 17,000km journey from Portugal to Vietnam, spanning 13 days. Undoubtedly, this is the longest overland journey anyone can embark on. It’s not […]

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What is the secret to a simple life? You may at times feel dissatisfied with your own life, yet there are many in this world who dream of living as you do… A child raised on a farm dreams of taking flight upon seeing an airplane soar overhead. Conversely, the pilot of that plane dreams of returning home upon glimpsing a farmhouse below. Such is life! Embrace your life… If wealth were the key to happiness, the affluent would surely be dancing in the streets. Yet, it is only the impoverished children who do so. If power truly ensured security, officials would walk unguarded. Yet, those who lead simple lives […]

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Natural Living and Wellness: Simple Secrets for Everyone Diet: Exercise: 45 minutes of brisk walking (morning or evening) Breathe fresh air, especially in the invigorating mornings. Eat healthy: avoid processed snacks (biscuits, chakli, wafers). Eat plenty of seasonal fruits. Include all available vegetables: gourds (bitter, ridge, snake), banana stem, leafy greens, legumes. Increase fiber intake for better digestion. Reduce red meat, increase fish. Eat on time with smaller portions. Limit sugar, salt, pickles, sauces, spices, and papad (appalam). Have a daily vegetable salad. Limit coffee and tea (1 cup each, max). Eat yogurt daily. Lifestyle Habits: Maintain cleanliness. Head massage with oil once a week before hair washing. Avoid arguments […]

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A wealthy man strode into a bar in Panama. As soon as he entered, his gaze fell upon a black woman seated in a corner. Approaching the counter and pulling out his wallet, he shouted, “Bartender! I’ll buy drinks for everyone in this bar, except that black woman over there.” The bartender took the money and started offering free drinks to everyone in the bar, except the black woman. However, she remained calm and simply looked at the man, saying, “Thank you.” The man grew furious. Once again, he took out his wallet and said, “Bartender! This time, I’ll buy a bottle of wine and extra food for everyone in […]

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A Japanese tourist hailed a taxi in downtown Delhi, asking to be taken to Indira Gandhi Airport. Along the way, a car swiftly passed by, and the tourist exclaimed, “Ah, a Toyota – made in Japan! Very fast!” Another car then overtook the taxi, and the tourist remarked, “Ah, a Nissan – made in Japan! Very fast!” Soon after, yet another car passed them, and the tourist said, “Ah, a Mitsubishi – made in Japan! Very fast!” The taxi driver, who was 100% Indian, grew a bit annoyed as Japanese cars kept overtaking. Finally, as they approached the airport, another car zoomed past the taxi, and the tourist exclaimed, “Ah, […]

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What does isolation at Antarctica’s poles feel like? One day, a video cassette of the Polish version of “Big Brother” arrived at the Antarctic research station. The narrator’s concerned voice explained, “The participants have been confined together for these 90 days.” We exchanged looks. It was the 281st day at the Arctowski base. The above memory is a story I heard from a friend, but I hope it helps you understand what isolation at the poles truly means. Personally, I’ve conducted four expeditions at the Polish Henryk Arctowski Antarctic Station, two of which were winter overs (year-round observations). Usually, a ship departs from Gdynia Harbor in October and, after a […]

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Living in the Middle: Living somewhere in the middle, what’s it like? I live somewhere in the middle. Going a step further, I’d say at one point, my family was one of the most isolated families in North America, perhaps even one of the most isolated in the world. Building an igloo in the spring of 1980 (though that was my brother, not me, for clarification). Would you believe it? Keep reading. Here’s a map of the United States taken directly from Google Earth. As you can see, it’s quite a vast area. Now, some of you may not be aware, but just north of the United States, there’s another […]

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Which country boasts the most delicious mangoes? Look no further than India. India and mangoes are synonymous. The cultivation of mangoes in India dates back over 4,000 years, making it the birthplace of these luscious fruits. Even today, India proudly holds the title for the highest mango production in the world. Let’s embark on a journey through India, exploring the world of mangoes. Here’s a list of mango varieties harvested in each state of India. Quite an impressive array of flavors, isn’t it? While wine tours are famous worldwide, I highly recommend embarking on a mango tour in India. It’s a delightful and enjoyable expedition. First, let’s go through the […]

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The allure of living off the grid, you ask? In essence, I lead a life devoid of monetary transactions. I secure sustenance and shelter by dedicating five hours of labor, five days a week, and I do so without spending a dime. Most of our food is grown on-site, and whatever is not cultivated is procured through purchases, primarily fruits, beans, and occasionally bread. While my host covers the cost of groceries, last week’s shopping list only amounted to $3, consisting of lentils, canned tomatoes, and oregano. Furthermore, we cut firewood for heating the home, warming water, and cooking, thereby bypassing expenses like gas and the like. We reside in […]

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The Amish lead a lifestyle that may seem stark to many, yet what they gain surpasses what they relinquish by far. Electricity, cars, indoor phones, computers, and average American attire are all forbidden. However, it’s crucial to note that not all Amish communities are identical. Their primary language is Pennsylvania German, pronounced as “Ich” (with a long “i” for Dich), hence sometimes referred to as Dutch despite not being so. Various German dialects exist across regions, making the language barrier perhaps more challenging to adapt to than off-grid living itself. Clothing must adhere to specified patterns and materials, often handmade. Women wear distinctive hats, intricate and demanding in ironing, a […]

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I found myself headed towards Skurbuchan Gonpa. The rickety bus departed from Leh town and followed the Leh-Srinagar Highway relentlessly. At a junction along the way, the highway either crossed a bridge towards Lamayuru or continued along the Indus River towards Dah Hanu. Without crossing the bridge, the bus proceeded towards Dah Hanu, passing through Skurbuchan Gonpa along the way. Gradually descending in altitude while glimpsing the Indus River on the left, every green-covered stretch of land along the Indus River was a village. From Dongkar to Skurbuchan, Achinatan, Sanjak, Dah Hanu, to Garkun, this area would soon be adorned with trees bearing juicy, orange fruits in about a month […]

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Running for an hour continuously is truly challenging, don’t you think? The Appalachian Trail stands as the world’s longest hiking trail, spanning a staggering 3,523 kilometers. This trail traverses the Appalachian Mountains from Georgia to Maine, navigating through rugged terrains from Springer Mountain in Chattahoochee National Forest to Mount Katahdin in Baxter State Park. If the trail were flat, covering the 3,523 kilometers would be the ultimate test of endurance. Spanning 14 states, the Appalachian Trail cuts through alpine regions and rocky terrains, presenting a formidable challenge. With over 150 kilometers of elevation gain, those who embark on this trail typically dedicate five to seven months to complete it. Scott […]

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Minimalism has been my way of life, involving quitting my job with less than $3000 in my bank account, embarking on the “challenge of reducing possessions to fewer than 100 items,” turning off my cellphone, booking a one-way ticket to Europe, and living self-sufficiently in the mountains of Spain, exchanging necessities for volunteer work.   What did it require? Unraveling much of what I had been taught about pursuing the American Dream. When I first set foot in Spain in February 2015, I volunteered for five hours a day at an animal shelter in exchange for three meals a day. And a free room with wifi. My daily routine included: […]

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The Pacific Crest Trail demands a meticulous preparation. How much readiness is truly necessary? Junichiro Honjo, residing in India for eight minutes, shares insights drawn from hiking the PCT with a boyfriend turned husband in 2010. I would divide preparation into four domains: self (mental/physical), food, gear, and other essentials. Self (Mental+Physical): As others have noted, minimal walking prep is crucial to acquire trail legs in the initial weeks. We adjusted our packs repeatedly to find the optimum comfort and weight distribution. Practice walking 5-12 miles in Brooklyn wearing the pack. Mountain Education’s Winter Skills Course surprised me with the need for an ice axe, enhancing directional/navigation skills crucial amidst […]

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To finish that whole Pacific Crest Trail by walking through it, you gotta do ’bout 15 miles every day. At that speed, it’ll take ’bout 6 months. If you’re headin’ NOBO (northbound), brace yourself ’cause Washington’s got some wild weather waitin’ for ya. But most folks up their daily miles as they go along. I started with 10 miles a day and pitched camp by 3:00 pm. Towards the end, I was on the trail for 12-14 hours coverin’ over 30 miles – pretty much what most folks do. Some hikers do over 40 miles, some do less. Now, if you’re lookin’ to hike the whole PCT (2,650 miles) in […]

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