Places I Remember

In Places I Remember, Lea Lane takes readers on a travel adventure that covers more than 100 countries, blending personal narrative with vivid snippets of her varied experiences. Lane’s ability to intertwine the rich canvas of geographical locations sets this travel memoir apart from the powerful emotions that come from her experiences. The stories she recounts are not merely about the places she visits; they evoke deep connections to life, love, and loss that resonate with the reader. In Cambodia, Lane contemplates the decision to travel solo after undergoing lung cancer recovery. This pivotal moment is laced with humor, fear, and a thirst for life as she reflects on her experiences at the Angkor Wat ruins and the humility they inspire. Her rightful discomfort juxtaposes her traveler privilege with the grim realities local communities face. In Grenada, there's a painful awakening as she ventures into her first solo travel experience after a painful separation, highlighting the transformative power of solitude and the overwhelming beauty of the Caribbean.  

In one moving account, Lane visits the ancient ruins of Tikal in Guatemala. Her description of the grandeur of the Mayan city layered with her reverence for the site, evokes a sense of spiritual connection not often found in a casual tourist’s experience. Reflecting on the juxtaposition of nature and ancient civilization compels readers to consider their connections with history and culture. She rides a river safari boat in Botswana, surrounded by wildlife, including hippos. Amidst playful descriptions of her adventure, there lies significant introspection regarding nature’s beauty and the often-overlooked fragility of ecosystems. The joy of this encounter becomes a deeper reflection of humanity's responsibility towards nature, especially in a rapidly changing environment. Lane recalls her visit to the tiny country of Andorra, where she navigates the aftermath of a mugging in Barcelona. This experience could have tarnished her travels; instead, it led her to a beautiful picnic atop the mountains of Andorra, solidifying the idea that healing often comes from serenity in nature.

The emotional undertones of her relationships become apparent as she travels solo in Cuba after a divorce. Lane’s exploration of authenticity and loneliness is profound and notable, especially when confronting memory and desire while interacting with locals. In particular, a chance encounter with a woman cleaning public restrooms sparks a profound connection that transcends social class, reminding Lane and the reader that dignity exists in every human experience. In Buenos Aires, an encounter with tango brings forth exhilarating moments highlighting Lane’s journey toward self-acceptance and joy. The city’s vibrant energy and rich cultural heritage reflect her journey as she recalls the thrill of dancing with locals. It explores how travel nudges one toward embracing new experiences and the unknown.  

Lane’s candid observations of her interactions throughout her adventures reveal her empathetic nature, transforming mundane travel experiences into moving lessons on resilience and kindness. Locations in the memoir, such as the charming streets of Prague and the serene beaches of Anguilla, offer emotional anchors. Lane’s descriptive flair and appreciation for diverse landscapes help reconstruct memories filled with personal significance. Her engaging writing reinforces her voice—a blend of candid introspection and a humorous take on her adventures. This unique combination empowers readers to visualize her journeys and invites them to reflect on their experiences and places with special meaning. Places I Remember is a gem for fans of travel memoirs. It's a book filled with adventure, discovery, and fun. It’s a moving account of how places shape our identities, relationships, and stories, reminding us that every journey transforms us in ways we may not initially understand. The illustrations infuse a symbolic character into the writing, making the narrative more enjoyable. This author will make you want to drop everything, pack your luggage, and set out to explore the world.