11 - Travels and adventures of an orchid hunter by Albert Millican

Join us on an exhilarating journey as we follow an intrepid orchid hunter through the vibrant landscapes of Colombia. This captivating travelogue explores bustling cities, diverse cultures, and the rich flora and fauna encountered along the way. Set against the backdrop of a pivotal moment in history—the French attempt to construct a canal in Panama—our protagonist navigates the complexities of a world where European and South American elites are celebrated, while the indigenous peoples are often overlooked. With a keen eye for detail, the narrative unfolds as the hunter recounts perilous adventures, including the tragic fates of his native support staff and the challenges posed by previous collectors who have ravaged the land. Amidst breathtaking jungles and majestic mountains, our hunters obsession with orchids leads to the ruthless destruction of nature, as he recounts the nine jaguar skins and crates of plants he hauls back to England. This tale is as much about the beauty of exploration as it is about the moral complexities that accompany it.