As I mentioned in a previous post, I’m a big fan of group tours. It can be nice to have someone else take care of logistics and transportation so all I have to do is have a good time. When … Read More
Imagine falling asleep to only the sound of the wind. Imagine waking up not to an alarm but to the sound of birds and the tickle of sunlight on your eyelids. Imagine being in the middle of hypnotically undulating prairie … Read More
Instagram and I were kind of love at first site. Since I joined a couple of years ago, it’s easily become my favorite social media spot, surpassing even Pinterest in my heart. (Shh, don’t tell Pinterest.) I love the power … Read More
“Who can do 500 pull-ups?” our guide asked, holding up his hand. The group laughed uncertainly and no one responded. “If you want to do the equivalent of 500 pull-ups tonight, go ahead and paddle with your arms. If you … Read More
Queue halcyon flute music. Queue short people with oversize, hairy feet. Queue quite possibly the most amazing attraction you’ll see on your New Zealand adventure. Welcome to Hobbiton, a now-permanent structure that was originally constructed as a temporary set for … Read More
The wind gusts did not deter us from getting off the bus. We had been driving for at least two hours, heading steadily towards the coast. At last, the ocean broke into view, grayish green and frothing against the shore. … Read More
Washington, DC, is known by those who live here as the land of overachievers. After all, you don’t get a job on Capitol Hill by settling for a B+. This penchant for uber-excelling professionally and academically also extends to residents’ … Read More
I thought I had been hiking before. I even thought I had done one or two challenging hikes in my lifetime. I was mistaken. The hike on the Alex Knob trail—located in New Zealand’s Westland Tai Poutini National Park—was a … Read More
The mountain town of Queenstown, New Zealand, is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand and maybe the world. It’s a small place with a hip and rugged Park City, Utah, vibe that caters to tourists, especially adrenaline junkies. … Read More
For years I have been trying to convince my family to do a destination Christmas someplace warm. I’m not a fan of winter and love the idea of being able to celebrate Christmas without having to don enough layers to … Read More