Hello Reader , I’ve been creating a new presentation for the Denver Travel & Adventure Show around this idea: a journey gets you somewhere, but a quest makes you someone. For years, I traveled like most people—choosing destinations, checking places off a list. But the trips that have stayed with me—the ones that actually changed me—were never just trips. They were part of something bigger. That’s what a travel quest does. It keeps you inspired long after you return home. It builds confidence...
about 1 month ago • 7 min read
Hello Reader , Happy Saint Patrick's Day! I'm busy cooking up corned beef, cabbage, and boxty's today! How are you celebrating Saint Patrick's Day? This just makes me excited for my upcoming trip to Ireland in May! Even though my Donegal hiking tour is full, if you are looking for a great Ireland hiking tour - I have other options for you! Ireland Walk Hike Bike offers guided and self-guided hiking tours all over Ireland. As an Ottsworld reader you get 5% off any of their tours or custom...
2 months ago • 6 min read
Hello Reader , Happy March!! This month, I wanted to kick off Women's History Month by highlighting women's travel and resources! Last fall, I led an all-women’s trek in Nepal with World Expeditions—and it reminded me just how powerful it is when women step outside their routines and into the unknown together. I watched women arrive, unsure of themselves, and leave standing at mountain viewpoints with a new sense of confidence and possibility. These trips aren’t just about where you...
3 months ago • 7 min read
Hello Reader , We are one month into 2026 and I'm finally getting around to putting together a little list of where to go in 2026. I was inspired by the New York Times list of 52 places that came out recently. If you haven't seen their list - I do recommend checking it out, they always do a great job. I did notice that one of my favorite and unknown places made their list this year (it's been in my Ebook, Where to Go and When, for years!). Check out #9 - Saba Island in the Caribbean! I...
4 months ago • 8 min read
Hello Reader , What if “someday” didn’t live in that fuzzy future where dreams go to nap… what if someday was 2026? We all have those trips (or goals) we say we’ll do “when things slow down,” “when I have more time,” or “one of these days.” Trust me, I’ve used those excuses too. But here’s what I’ve learned after almost two decades of chasing adventures around the world: Life doesn’t magically make space for adventure — we have to decide it’s worth prioritizing. So what if this was the year...
5 months ago • 6 min read
Hey [FIRST NAME], We are officially halfway through the holidays and you may be starting to look forward to the new year...and your future 2026 travels! If you’ve ever opened 27 tabs (guilty.. 😬) trying to plan a trip to Europe, only to feel more confused than when you started—you’re not alone. That’s why I’m so excited to share this: The DIY Trip Summit: Europe Beyond the Crowds is a FREE 3-day online event (Jan 13–15) featuring 30+ travel experts (I'm one of them!) ready to help you cut...
5 months ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader , Happy Holidays! I know it's a busy time of year, so I will try to keep this short and sweet. I'll be in South Dakota for the Christmas holiday with my parents, enjoying a few relaxing days playing games and baking with my mom. Ever since I returned home from Japan, life has been CRAZY! I pride myself on living my life differently, and because of that, I have made unconventional choices my entire life - ignoring the social 'shoulds' and doing what made me happy. So when I...
5 months ago • 5 min read
Hello Reader, Think You’ve Seen Patagonia? Think Again. If Patagonia has been sitting on your travel wish list, this might be the trip that finally gets you there. You know me — I’m always looking for ways to go beyond the obvious. While most travelers flock to the famous W and O treks in Torres del Paine National Park, there’s a whole other side to Patagonia waiting to be explored nearby — one with fewer crowds, more connection, and a deeper sense of discovery. That’s why I’m so excited to...
6 months ago • 1 min read
Konnichiwa Reader, I’ve officially settled into life in Japan for a while—leading tours, scouting new adventures, and basically eating and 'cocktailing' my way through the country (all in the name of research, of course). My Michinoku Coastal Trail hiking tour just wrapped up, and it was everything I love about travel rolled into one trip: an amazing group, bluebird skies, jaw-dropping coastal views, and endless local food, cocktails, and culture. Next up? My Cat Tour of Japan! (Yes, that’s...
7 months ago • 6 min read
