“What’s the difference? Isn’t Nordic walking just walking with hiking poles?” When I ask friends, “Have you ever tried Nordic walking?” this is the usual response. I admit it is exactly what I think, when Mandy Johnson, owner of Active By Nature in Canmore, offers to take us Nordic pole walking. My regular hiking poles…
Read MoreFrom the picturesque shores of Lake Windermere to the tranquil beauty of the entire Columbia Valley, those seeking adrenaline and those seeking relaxation, each find an ideal location. The variety of things to do in Invermere, British Columbia and the surrounding adventure playground, makes this an ultimate year round destination. However, come fall, when the…
Read MoreIt is the vision of endless plastic garbage. When people ask about our cycling trip through Cambodia, the piles of plastic waste are burned into my memory. I politely skip over the sickening recollection of mounds of plastic pollution, and gush about Angkor Wat and the kindness of the Cambodian people. However, the truth is,…
Read More‘Definitely not much to be seen in Aberdeen’ was the refrain I kept hearing when deciding to stow away on Hubby’s business trip to Scotland. Being the ever optimistic traveler I was certain I could find something of interest in a place that has been on the map for more than a thousand years. Four…
Read MoreBiggleswade, a charming market town in Bedfordshire, offers a mix of historical charm and easy access to the surrounding countryside. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape or planning a longer stay, renting a car in Biggleswade can be a great way to explore the local area at your own pace. If you’re new to…
Read MoreIt is the dreaded moment of any road trip. A flat tire or a vehicle gasping for its last breath. Worse yet coming upon an accident or being involved in one. What to bring on a road trip is not all about snacks and sunscreen I am sad to say. Through some tough experiences of…
Read MoreThe Alto Douro region in northern Portugal, commonly called the Douro Valley, is a sculpted wonder to see. What allows the Alto Douro to stand out in contrast to other amazing locales in the world? The steep hills, deep valleys and snaking rivers are incredibly awe inspiring on their own. Yet, it’s the artistic sculpting…
Read MoreNestled in southern Jordan, Wadi Rum—often referred to as the Valley of the Moon—presents a landscape that is nothing short of mesmerizing. This vast, arid desert is renowned for its striking rock formations, expansive sandy plains, and an ethereal atmosphere that has captured the imaginations of adventurers, filmmakers, and poets alike. With its dramatic scenery…
Read MoreWhen observing zebras in South Africa a few years ago, I began pondering. Why is a zebra black and white? What is the function of those zebra stripes? Why are zebras so unique within the Equus genus, which includes stripe-less horses, asses, and donkeys? To my surprise, there is no consensus. Why are the stripes of a…
Read MoreFrom the rugged coastline of Western Newfoundland to the serene beaches of New Zealand lies a striking contrast of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Yet the Bay of Islands Newfoundland and the Bay of Islands New Zealand share a surprising common feature. While two bays bearing the same name may seem plausible, having them named…
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