My journey starts in Vancouver, British Colombia, and it could not be more fitting. Even in those times where mining is going through some very harsh times, this Canadian city is the host of almost 1500 junior explorers and mining companies that have interests in thousands of properties around the world. While many of them are definitely struggling to survive, the city’s appeal to the industry is unbroken. I am convinced that there is no single aspect of it that attracts them here, but rather a combination of its mild climate, the relative low taxes, the save jurisdiction and its spectacular views. However, Vancouver is not only a city that headquarters many mining companies, but is also represents Canada’s major gateway to the Pacific Ocean. Its many bulk terminals ship coal, potash, sulfur, and metallic ore concentrates (copper, gold, molybdenum) all around the world. It is also a major consumer of resources, be it concrete, steel, asphalt or base metals. Just the other day I walked Cambie bridge and spotted 14 major construction cranes in the downtown area alone.

Looking further ahead, the journey will take me from Vancouver through the interior of British Columbia, leading up through the Yukon to Alaska and loop back through the Yukon, the Northwest Territories, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, into the US back to Vancouver.. at least that is the plan. The exact route is quite flexible and will ultimately be determined by the feasibility of mine visits and weather conditions. My trusted companion will be a Subaru Outback with a Tepui Kukenam tent bolted onto the roof.