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Erich von Däniken, did you sometimes get into dangerous situations
on your journeys?
EvD: Yes, it was sometimes risky. So for example, I was on the way
in the desert region between Pakistan and Iran with my then
co-worker in the middle of the 1970’s. At the last military post
before the border, we were strongly warned not to proceed because
the area was not safe at that time. But we didn’t have any choice
and rattled with our Range Rover over the bumpy dirt road into the
impassable desert area. Suddenly, a group of young men with guns
blocked our way and we got a good fright. Indeed at that time, an
instant-picture camera saves us from greater difficulties.
How did that come about?
I had such a thing with me and took it out. At the sight of the
camera, the lads struck promptly a pose with their MPs and were then
completely fascinated that we already held the pictures in our hands
after few minutes. They had never seen something like that. So I
took a photo from everyone, pressed the camera in their hand at the
end and said double-quick goodbye.
The places that you describe in your books, did you visit all of
them yourself. How do you choose your destinations?
It starts often that I read something in traditions of ancient
people or in special books about foreign cultures, something that
fascinates me. Or I received letters from readers from all over the
world that drew my attention to a myth or a relic of ancient times
in their region. Then, I start to search further, look for pictures
and texts on that subject, and study the scientific sources. If I
then find the matter still exciting, I put the place on my next
travel list.
How do the people respond when Erich von Däniken appears at the
location?
The natives have often positive attitude towards me. So for example,
some years ago - to my great amazement - I became honorary citizen
of the Peruvian small town of Nazca, as my books contributed
considerably that tourism on site flourish.
And the authorities?
There were never problems, and sometimes, the authoritative offices
were also very helpful. For instance, many years ago I wanted to go
to a place in the middle of the Columbian jungle that is called
Buritaca. Since these ruins are located in the middle of drug
region, at that time people could only go there with official
authorization. After quite a lot of argument I got it too from an
air force general in Bogota. A military helicopter even flew me to
Buritaca and dropped me off - all on my very own - in the abandoned
site.
Can we accompany you on your journey?
I travel now and then with groups to archaeologically interesting
destinations in different countries. Most of these trips are
organized by the A.A.S., the Archaeology, Astronautics and SETI
Research Association.
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