Last updated Jan 18, 2021 | First published on Apr 1, 2014 | Travel Stories
Somehow, by hook or crook, my tale of adventure with Komodo dragons on Rinca Island in Indonesia managed to win a silver prize for animal encounter in the Solas Best Travel Writing of 2014. I’ve been wanting to win won of these and make it into the annual book...
Last updated Jun 24, 2021 | First published on Aug 1, 2011 | Sumatra
In three wide swings with its massive arms, the orangutan I had been observing from a distance closed the gap between us and landed in the tree beside me with a thud. It was so close, I could hear it breathing. Just as when I encountered the backcountry grizzly bear...
Last updated Feb 15, 2021 | First published on Jul 8, 2010 | Borneo
After being attacked by monkeys a few times already, even here in Malaysia, I’m not normally too thrilled at the prospect of going in search of them. It’s not that I don’t think they are cute, it’s that one scratch from their poo-flingers or...
Last updated Nov 15, 2018 | First published on Jul 30, 2009 | Malaysia
A large monkey stepped out on the trail in front of me and showed me some nasty teeth. I could hear the rest of his clan making their moves around me getting into position. Not again. I reached down to grab a nearby stick and he made his move to grab my water bottle....
Last updated Nov 15, 2018 | First published on May 25, 2009 | Indonesia (Not Bali)
Update: I actually won a Solas Best of Travel Writing award for my experience with the Komodo dragons on Rinca Island. (it’s a better read than below) “Hissssss….” I was staring down a full sized female Komodo dragon just a few feet from her...
