Trekking in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan is an under-the-radar delight. The mountains are dramatic and vast, and while out there you’re spending some days without another soul in sight and others with just a few around. It’s unbelievable how unspoilt it still is, given the incredible scenery. It’s hard to find places like this left in […]
Where to Go Trekking in Kyrgyzstan’s Tian Shan Mountains
When I googled Kyrgysztan I couldn’t believe the photos I saw. That looks like Patagonia, I thought to myself. I had to go and check it out for myself. After some discussion with a guide and fellow trekking enthusiast, I chose a trail that starts off remote, then leads to one of the region’s most […]
The Big Question Girls Who Travel are so Tired of Answering
The question comes up again in casual conversation. It can strike anywhere, while riding along in the car in Germany, at high tea in Zimbabwe, or in the middle of an adventure around Angkor Wat in Cambodia. At this point, I’m not even annoyed anymore because I understand that people are just curious and a […]
How do You Know Whether to Plan Ahead or Wing It?
How do you know when to plan ahead and when to wing it? “Often times in your book or blog you would have no plans at all and go book a 10 day retreat or a weeklong diving expedition. How do you know when to plan?” A reader literally just emailed me with this question […]
The Best Anti-Theft Travel Purse
Almost everyone with a long history on the road has a story about how they’ve been pick pocketed while traveling. Here’s mine: I was dancing in the street at a celebration in Berlin when I reached down and realized that my wallet and phone were gone. I was shocked. I’d had my hand on the […]




