Is the allure of distant landscapes inherently superior, or a mirage crafted by remoteness?

I’ve often pondered why so many destinations that captivate my imagination lie perpetually out of reach. No matter where I’ve lived, these places remain scattered to opposite ends of the Earth. Are these far-off vistas truly more breathtaking than the landscapes nearby, or does their appeal stem solely from the novelty of their remoteness? 1. … Read more

Micronesia (part 2): gifts from the ocean- coral reefs, mangrove forests, and sharks

My earlier post Micronesia part 1: secluded stones mainly discussed high island landscapes related to volcanic rocks and megalithic cultural sites. This upcoming part 2 will focus on low island features derived from coral reefs. Not having read part 1 won’t affect understanding this post. Calcareous skeletons of corals form limestone, which falls into the … Read more

Micronesia (part 1): secluded stones- basalt columns, latte, and rai

Nan Dowas 南马杜尔Nan Dowas皇家陵墓一角

I took a trip to Micronesia – a group of isolated “small islands” – in early 2024, where the diverse volcanic landscapes on their high islands not only shape magnificent natural scenery but also foster an impressive local culture. There are three subregions- both geographical and cultural- in Oceania: Melanesia, Polynesia, and Micronesia. Translated from … Read more