Unforgettable Experiences: Love, Travel, and Aviation Insights

I traveled from the Lake District in the UK to Switzerland for a job interview in the early 90’s. There's a moment in my journey that stands out as one of the most beautiful experiences I've had. My call came on a frosty November evening, with Geneva waiting at my doorstep at about 18:00. I boarded a 2-hour train from Geneva to Aigle. En route, I saw the Alps from Lausanne, their silhouettes barely visible in the twilight. What a treat it was to reach Aigle, where a cog train journeyed for 40 minutes to Leysin.

Die dark bliss: It was so dark that I struggled to see anything outside the window. The climb felt endless, but eventually, the village enveloped the train. I ventured to my hotel in the dark, only to step outside and find a cloudy fog. Victory in the dawn: The morning’s light unveiled my new home, even before the interview, I was convinced I would be coming back soon. This journey, as beautiful as it was, faded in comparison to another 'most beautiful experience' I've had.

Love - The Most Beautiful Experience

There is no question in my mind that the 'MOST BEAUTIFUL EXPERIENCE' I’ve ever had is being in love. I remember it vividly; as a 39-year-old single man, the intensity of those emotions was unexpected. For those who have experienced it, you understand. It's an unparalleled feeling of happiness, excitement, and devotion. Despite my age, and never having felt it before, this sentiment profoundly altered my life.

The Beauty of Freelance Journalism: A U-2 Spy Plane Journey

My journey in the world of restaurant inspection for a hotel and restaurant guide was relatively straightforward. However, one adventure stands out: being the first photojournalist aviator to experience the cockpit of a Lockheed U-2 spy plane. This was a significant achievement, not just for me, but for aviation enthusiasts and the world at large.

From the preflight physical and the fascinating walkaround to the pressurized suit suiting up, everything was unforgettable. Boarding the aircraft and soaring to 60,000 feet was a surreal experience. The Earth's curvature, black space speckled with stars in daylight, and landing to write about it—the memories and stories I captured were a hauntingly beautiful experience.

Though the political atmosphere was tense, operating the U-2 spy plane entailed significant risks. As a military project, it was once highly classified, but over the years, it has become subject to public scrutiny and interest. The fact that I was the first to document this plane's cockpit and write an exclusivity article for a major publication was truly a joy and an honor. The elation of being partially responsible for such a significant piece of aviation history is something I will never forget.

Conclusion: The Joys of Freelancing and Aviation Enthusiasm

Life on the edge is rewarding. My experiences in the Lake District, Switzerland, and the air are proof that, while I may not have gotten into an aircraft as an aviator, I was lucky enough to sail into the cockpit and document it. Unearthing and controlling a story is one of the rarer joys in freelancing. The joy of capturing the essence of aviation, whether through travel or charismatic experiences like being in love, is a profound reminder of the beauty that surrounds us.

Whether in the mountains of Leysin or the skies of the U-2, the most beautiful experiences often transcend the ordinary. Love, travel, and moments of human curiosity forge paths to memories that are unforgettable and cherished.