A part of the Cascades range, Mt. Lassen is a dormant volcano outside of Chester, California. While the volcano is considered dormant, it last erupted in 1915 and has many geologically active features, such as mud pots and hot springs. During the winter, this park is nearly inaccessible due to snowfall, but from late spring to early fall, it is a paradise for outdoor explorers and day trippers alike. Much of Mt. Lassen National Park can be … [Read more...]
Japanese Fabric Banshu-ori – Explore Nishiwaki’s 200-Year Textile Heritage
Japan is home to many famous destinations—Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hokkaido. Step beyond these classics and you’ll discover lesser-known regions and cultures with their own allure. This time I visited Nishiwaki, Hyogo, a town celebrated as the birthplace of Banshu-ori textile weaving, where a distinct heritage and craftsmanship thrive alongside daily life. In this article, I’ll share a hands-on trip through under-the-radar spots—from … [Read more...]
A Magical Time to be had in Nayarit’s Pueblos Mágicos
Mexico's Pacific state of Nayarit is one whose culture, traditions, and gastronomy have put it in the tourist spotlight. One of the best ways to discover the magic of Nayarit is to immerse yourself in its small towns and villages, especially the ones that are renowned for their authenticity, heritage, and culture. In Mexico, towns that live up to these standards earn a government designation of Pueblo Magico, or Magical Town. Nayarit is … [Read more...]
Slow travel in the Caribbean: Where to stay, what to savor, and how to disconnect
The Caribbean is one of my favorite regions on the planet to travel; the best trip to this part of the world is one where your pace is slowed considerably and your time is spent in the moment. On more than one occasion, regardless of the country, I heard the phrase, 'island time'; this lifestyle ethos is built around a no-hurry vibe and a pace focused on relaxation. And in addition, the region is known for its spectacular beaches, diversity of … [Read more...]
Saline Valley Warm Springs, Death Valley – August 2025
This is arguably the coolest, best and most intriguing oasis in the entire state of California. If one were to plant a hot spring in the most remote of locations, it would be here - in Saline Valley. Certainly one of California's most remote desert valleys and one of the state's longest dirt roads - these hot springs are at least 3 hours from any sort of paved road. One can enter Saline Valley via either the North (Inyo mountains) or South passes … [Read more...]
Vino Voyage: A European Adventure
Before I left on my latest trip to Europe, I randomly sent a WhatsApp message to one of my travel blogger friends, Isabel from Bel Around the World. It turns out she was in London finishing up her travels in Europe before heading down to Thailand to speak at TBEX. She met my friend and I at LHR as soon as we landed - and then we were off on a whirlwind nearly 3-day road trip of the countryside outside of London. Our first stop was Wrotham, the … [Read more...]
Kinosaki Onsen Itinerary & Things to Do: Guide to Japan’s Hidden Gem
The Charm of Kinosaki Onsen and How My Journey Began Illustration by Kaori Akamatsu A playful illustrated scene of Kinosaki Onsen. Kinosaki Onsen, located in the northern part of Hyogo Prefecture along the Sea of Japan, is one of Japan’s most celebrated hot spring towns, with a history dating back over 1,300 years. Since the Edo period, it has been known as a town for therapeutic hot spring stays, a tradition that continues to be … [Read more...]
A Long Weekend in New Mexico and West Texas
We landed in Albuquerque (one of the more difficult to spell U.S. cities), New Mexico. The last time I was here was by car and the entire city was a ghost town; I recall it was difficult to find any open restaurants and we ended up eating from a fast-food cart parked across from the downtown Rail Runner Train Station. This time we rented a car and immediately headed up to Santa Fe. We stopped at St. John's College, loaded up on fresh ripe … [Read more...]
Enjoy a European Geo Thermal Spa Experience in the heart of Southern California
Murrieta Hot Springs, California, Geothermal Resort Review I first discovered the benefits of thermal springs as a young bride living in Southern Germany. My life there included visits to picturesque towns which evoked scenes right out of the “Sound of Music.” But nothing quite surpassed the rejuvenation and relaxation I felt after a dip in one of the many thermal pools that dotted the Bavarian countryside. I had the pleasure of … [Read more...]
Winter Dip: Exploring Australia Thermal Springs
Anyone who has ever had the privilege of visiting or living in Australia will tell you that this vast country has plenty to offer lovers of all things nature. Its sheer size hosts a variety of different ecosystems, biomes, and natural wonders that need to be seen to be believed. Australia is home to the largest artesian system in the world, with nearly 600 artesian spring complexes found throughout the country, divided into 12 major groups … [Read more...]
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