Sometimes the light’s all shinin’ on me.
Other times I can barely see.
Lately it occurs to me,
What a long strange trip it’s been.

- Truckin’, The Grateful Dead

§ § §

I began a series of travel journals some years back. Sometimes — often times — I’d be writing long hand on a beach or in a cafe or even on board a plane. Then my laptop computer took over and everything was relegated to memory - its, not mine.

One day, after reading over my observations and experiences and realizing they had a distinctly ‘bitchy’ bent, I decided they deserved an appropriate title and a place to call their own. And so, “Travels With My Rant” was born.

This area of A Change Of Venue is being set aside for the more lengthy, introspective and not altogether politically correct travel writing from yours truly. As always, enjoy and clean up your own mess before leaving.

LIVIN’ ON FIJI TIME

§ § §

A while back I decided I needed a little R&R. But being no ordinary beach bohemian, I opted for a road trip. A desert road trip. The American Southwest has always beckoned, and after several business-based parachute trips (drop in, pop out), I figured Arizona and points south (and west) would fit the bill nicely. I was right.

I traversed mostly back roads and stayed only on the edges of the maps, opting for solitary ribbons of red dust, a trunk full of fresh water and zero agenda. Along the way I got lost (thankfully), got chased (speedily), and got enlightened (clearly). Mission accomplished, as someone once said.

My e-mail missives home to various and sundry semi-interested parties tell the tale. Well… most of it.

ROAD TRIP SOUTHWEST