Reisverhaal The Longcut Across | Huib Maaskant

An exciting adventure starting in the bizarre capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, then crossing the Caspian Sea to Baku in Azerbaijan. This is the lowest point in Europe. Then the journey heads inland up the Kura River to stay in a caravanserai before crossing into Georgia, famous for its wines and monasteries. There is a visit to Kazbegi high up in the mountains before visiting Gori, Stalin's birthplace, and the museum dedicated to his memory. The journey through the Caucasus reaches the Black Sea and after a visit to Cappadocia and Istanbul, then returns to the Russian side of the Caucasus for the ascent of Europe's tallest mountain, Mount Elbrus.

An ambitious and magnificent new travelogue by internationally bestselling, prizewinning writer Erika Fatland. The Himalayas meander for more than two thousand kilometres through many different countries, from Pakistan to Myanmar via Nepal, India, Tibet and Bhutan, where the world religions of Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism are interspersed with ancient shamanic beliefs. Countless languages and vastly different cultures exist in these isolated mountain valleys. Modernity and tradition collide, while the great powers fight for influence. As Erika Fatland introduces us to the people she meets along her journey, and in particular the women, she takes us on a vivid and dizzying expedition at altitude through incredible landscapes and dramatic, unknown histories. Skilfully weaving the politics, geography, astrology, theology and ecology of this vast region, she also explores some of the most volatile human conflicts of our times. With her unique gift for listening, and for storytelling, …