Journey to the Center of the Earth: Leica MP Edition
As I began my journey, I felt an adventurous spirit pulsing through my veins, mixed with a healthy dose of fear. The Journey to the Center of the Earth is more than just a book; it's an epic challenge that I was determined to replicate. Capturing the essence of this legendary adventure on film was no small task, but I was ready to face it head-on. After months of preparation, I was equipped with nothing more than a Leica MP film camera, a map, a compass, and my camping gear. My goal was to experience each location with the same sense of wonder and excitement as described in the book and to capture it on film as if I were living in the 19th century. Now the question was, could I truly replicate this epic journey, or would it be just another failed attempt?
Preparing for the Adventure
Map of “Journey to the Center of the Earth”
As I planned my journey, I knew I needed to do some serious research. I started by re-reading Jules Verne's classic novel and taking detailed notes on each location the characters visited. From there, I researched the modern-day equivalents of each location to ensure I had accurate information on how to get there and what to expect.
Next, I had to decide on my gear. I knew I wanted to capture each location with a Leica MP film camera on various rolls of film, so I made sure to pack extra rolls and all the necessary accessories. I also brought my hiking boots, a sturdy backpack, and a reliable GPS device.
Safety was also a top priority, so I made sure to research the potential dangers of each location and packed appropriate gear like first-aid kits and emergency supplies.
As I set off on my adventure, I felt confident and prepared, ready to capture the beauty and wonder of each location just as Jules Verne's characters did so many years ago.
The Journey Begins: Copenhagen, DENMARK
As I stepped into the harbor of Copenhagen, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and excitement knowing that this was one of the places mentioned in the legendary book "Journey to the Center of the Earth". The sun was shining brightly, and the water was a deep shade of blue, reflecting the clear sky above. I could imagine Professor Otto Lidenbrock and his nephew Axel embarking on their adventure from this very spot.
Walking through the bustling harbor, I finally arrived at the Hotel Phoenix, which also features prominently in the book. The elegant building with its ornate facade transported me back to the 19th century, and I felt like I was experiencing the same excitement and anticipation that the characters must have felt as they set off on their journey.
Overall, visiting these locations gave me a unique insight into the world of "Journey to the Center of the Earth". The sunny weather in July made the experience all the more enjoyable and I couldn't wait to continue my adventure and see what other wonders awaited me on this trip.
ICELAND: Reykjavik, Snaefellsjökull, Mount Scartaris, and the crater of Sneffels
The moment I arrived in Reykjavik, I was immediately struck by the rugged beauty of the landscape. The towering mountains and rolling hills seemed almost otherworldly, and I knew that I was in for an adventure of a lifetime. The journey to Snaefellsjökull was breathtaking, and the crisp air and ever-changing weather made it all the more thrilling. As I made my way to Mount Scartaris, I felt a sense of anticipation building within me. The sheer scale of the mountain was awe-inspiring, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the thought of what lay beneath its surface. And then, as I reached the crater of Sneffels, I felt a rush of excitement course through my veins. The Leica MP camera in my hand felt like a talisman, a symbol of my determination to capture the essence of this legendary journey. Despite the unpredictable weather, I knew that I had found my way to the heart of adventure.
The Underground Sea
Although I had to forego the part of my journey related to the "Underground Sea" in my attempt to replicate the trip from the book "Journey to the center of the Earth," I was still thrilled to be exploring the other breathtaking locations mentioned in the book. Despite my excitement to explore every location, I had to accept the fact that I couldn't visit the place on the 21st of June when the midday sun forms a shape from the peak of the mountain. This unique occurrence indicates the entrance to the "Underground Sea," and missing it was a tough decision. However, I remained positive, knowing that the rest of the trip would still be a thrilling adventure, and I was determined to make the most of it.
ITALY: Stromboli
My visit to Stromboli Island was nothing short of amazing. The frequent eruptions of the volcano were awe-inspiring, happening every 10 to 15 minutes, and the night views were simply unforgettable. I chartered a boat and a boatman to explore the island and find the best spots to photograph with my camera, and the effort paid off with some stunning shots of the volcano's raw power.
But this was not enough!
Despite the chilly Mediterranean waters in February, I couldn't resist taking a quick dip and pushing myself to brave the cold. Of course, I was soon regretting my decision. Despite the icy swim, my trip to Stromboli was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I'll never forget.
Conclusion
Reflecting on my journey to the center of the Earth, I realize that it was about so much more than just following in the footsteps of a book. It was about pushing my limits, challenging myself, and discovering new ways of seeing the world. And one of the most important lessons I learned was that sometimes, the road less traveled is the most rewarding one. So if you're feeling stuck in a rut, or just looking for a new challenge, consider ditching the GPS and embracing the unknown. Who knows what adventures await?
NOTE TO SELF: The joy of an adventure multiplies when experienced with loved ones.
