Uncertain Steps into the Future

I’ve been blogging since 2005, although 7 years of posts disappeared into the ether when I upgraded blog platforms (much like your music tapes when you went to CD, and your CD’s when you converted them to MP3, and your MP3’s when you subscribed to a streaming service for every song ever recorded in history ).   Reading through previous year-end posts, I can feel the breeze of time, although a fierce wind has blown aside whimsical adventures in this unprecedented [insert adjective/expletive] era of pandemic.   All the same, I’ve had one my most successful years ever, pivoting my storytelling platforms to share positive insights and meaningful adventures at a time when they’re needed more than ever.   The Omicron variant means tourism is once again under attack, and once again, I feel like a foot soldier in the trenches of inspiration.
 
By December 2021, I would have hoped that vaccines would have got this virus under control, and the world would be approaching some sort of new-normal.     Instead, the Canadian government advisors everyone against travel anywhere outside the country’s borders, fearful of the variant that might be more benign/deadly than anyone knows at this point.  It’s this uncertainty driving everyone crazy, releasing the destructive hounds of conspiracy.  And fuelling vaccine distrust and apathy. 
 
I rarely agree with everything any government does.  I certainly don’t agree with lawyers who diligently expect the worst of everyone, or neurotic health authorities that would mandate we all wear a crash helmet and life vest because, statistically, it would be safer and decrease accidents.  I did however choose to live in Canada, and deeply respect and appreciate that privilege.  Canada – the envy of the world in terms of its lifestyle and economy – politely requests that I believe in science, and get vaccinated so we can put this damn virus on the ropes.  I can argue against the methods and hysteria, but I cannot argue against science, real-world statistics, and my belief in public trust to ensure the safety and wellbeing of my family. Arguing otherwise feels deeply irresponsible, harmful and selfish.   Along with traffic lights, pulling over for fire trucks, tolerating inane airport security and turning off cellphones at the movies, vaccines are a public choice.
 
Oh, travel, sorry, where was I?    This month, my Canadian Geographic Bucket Listed column explored 33 Indigenous Experiences to Add to your Canadian Bucket List.   Watch this space.   I also took a hit looking at the budding potential of cannabis tourism in Canada, where weed routes will one day compete with wine routes.   For my friends Great Canadian Trails, I explore Delicious Canadian Cuisine,  and come up with some Meaningful Gifts for Active Travellers.
 
I’m delighted that my book The Great Global Bucket List has just about sold out and is getting another print run.  Updating the introduction for the era of Covid, I was pleasantly surprised to see how relevant the experiences remain, and that my decision to focus on storytelling over information will make this tome of peak experiences hold up for the decade to come.  The companion website is being completely overhauled and will be launching in January 2022.
 
Wrapping up, I wish everyone an inspired, safe and prosperous year ahead.   And I look forward to confirming as much in a December 2022 end-of-year rant.