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Hello Reader,

I recently returned home from 2 weeks in Alaska - it was full of dancing aurora, cat mayors, sled dog puppies, a tappa and dog party, glacier hiking, and I was introduced to the new sport of outhouse racing! I hope you followed along on my social media as my group and I had a wonderful time, and I'm thrilled that everyone fell in love with Alaska in the winter! I'm not exactly sure when I'll run this trip again - 2026 or 2027...but I will run it again so let me know if you are interested in joining me next time by replying to this email!

A few new Alaska Travel Experiences You Should Know About for your next Alaska trip:

• ​Moon Dog Kennel in Healy (near Denali NP)should be on everyone's itinerary. `You will learn so much about dogs, and living in Alaska - it's impossible not to fall in love with Courtney, Brian, and the doggos.
• A new, less crowded/off the beaten track area for bear watching in Alaska. Most people think the place to watch bears is in Kenai NP - but bears are all over Alaska. Kenai Backcountry Adventures flies clients out to Lake Clark National Park to stay in little cabins and do bear watching all summer long!
• I went to a new Nordic thermal spa in Girdwood and it was absolutely fabulous! A beautiful setting in the woods, saunas, cold plunges and a beautiful, relaxing lounge area. It is a perfect stop on an Alaska trip!

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Fear and Travel

Last month I turned 55. It feels so weird because I feel like 35! I haven't quite figured out how to lean in and accept the aging process yet, I still feel like I'm fighting it. But I will say my 50's are better than my 40's!

When was the last time you did something for the first time? A month, a year, 5 years, 12 years ago?

Of course as we get older the time-frame seems to get longer and longer. When we were younger – everything was new and a ‘first’ – and then something happens. Are we too busy, have we run out of new things to do, or did we just get scared to try new things?

Aging and Doing New Things

As we age we seldom push ourselves into new activities or things once we reach our 40’s. In fact we are happy about being set in our ways and finally coasting in life. However, I think that staying the course and not trying new things is the quickest way to getting old. Read more about Aging and Fear.​

Why all of this talk about aging and fear? It's Women's History Month, and it got me thinking about all of the women who led the way in tackling their 'firsts' essentially paving that way for me today. Trying new things is what has kept me traveling for 18 years at Ottsworld.com. And I can't even tell you how many time's I've heard this sentence in 18 years - "You are the first blogger we've ever worked with!"

A few of my 'firsts after 40' that I fondly remember - driving on the left side, trying to surf for the first time, biking to my first capitol, Doing my first long distance hike, and mushing my own dog team!

What firsts would you like to do this year?

I hope that you keep pushing yourself in whatever way is slightly uncomfortable to you! And if you want a jumpstart on that, take a look at my new tours below! I'm sure you'll find something exciting that pushes you into a few new areas.

Where Next?

I'm on a plane to Patagonia right now! I'm so excited to head back there to run this new ebiking tour! This is the first time I'm running this new tour...but I've added on a number of things...because if you are going to travel that far - then why not stay a little longer and do more? Not only will we be ebiking around Torres del Paine, I'm planning on kayaking and fly fishing too. In addition we are touring around Santiago's wineries and food markets! Make sure to follow along on my socials and hopefully you'll join me next time!
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Happy Travels!

Ottsworld Tours

I'm giddy with excitement over here...😆 - after months of working on a new tour idea - I'm finally announcing it today!

Cat Themed Japan Tour

If you adore cats and crave adventure, get ready for the purr-fect journey through Japan! This one-of-a-kind, first-ever cat-themed tour will whisk you away on an unforgettable trip blending Japan’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and—of course—its deep-rooted love for all things feline.

This tour isn’t just about cats (though, let’s be honest, they are the stars of the show 🐾). It’s about immersing yourself in Japan’s history, traditions, and cuisine—alongside a group of fellow cat lovers who just get it.

I know this isn't my typical adventure tour offering - however, it covers another part of my life that I love - cats/kittens. The chance to combine my two loves of cats and travel arose, and of course, I leaped at it! And if you look closely at the intinerary...there's a super mix of cats, culture, and even a little adventure!

Let me and Neko the Lucky Cat beckon you to Japan for a once-in-a-lifetime cat-filled adventure. Spots are limited—don’t let this trip be the one that got away!

The Ultimate Cat Lover’s Tour of Japan Small Group Tour ​
Dates: November 3 - 10, 2025
Cost: $3975 ( $815 Deposit)

Here’s what awaits you:

• Ferry over to Japan’s famous cat island, where felines outnumber humans!
• Food Tour & Tea Ceremony – Savor delicious Japanese cuisine while encountering local street cats.
• Witness a traditional tuna auction (cats aren’t the only ones who love fish!).
• Visit a heartwarming cat shelter and meet adorable rescue kitties.
• Explore unique shops filled with feline-inspired treasures.
• Discover the legendary birthplace of Japan’s iconic lucky cat.
• Tour a sake brewery and sip on Japan’s finest rice wine.
• Dress in an elegant kimono for a cultural experience like no other.
• Stay in cozy accommodations – one with resident cats—because what’s better than waking up to purring?
• E-bike along the scenic coastline, taking in the fresh sea air with the wind at your back.
• “How to Use the Subway” Lesson – Master Tokyo’s incredible transportation system with ease.
• And many other surprises!

Women's Surf & Yoga Camp - Panama

I'm back at it again - this is my longest-running tour, and I consistently get repeat clients who join... because it is SO GREAT! If you've been watching me and my excellent girl gang take on surfing every January and have always wondered if you could surf, this is the time to pull the trigger!

The surf-focused itinerary designed by our instructors - Surf Sisters - is sure to get you stoked on surfing and give you the skills and confidence you need to get into the water on your own. Each day will be complemented by daily yoga practice, stretching sessions, and camaraderie.

Daily surf + yoga will invigorate your mind and body. Feel nourished in the goodness of local fresh fruits and local organic seafood each day. Revel in the raw natural beauty of Panama, connecting with the community of genuine friendly locals and like-minded travellers. Return home feeling more relaxed + refreshed than you’ve ever been.

I’ve been doing this trip for 5 years now and it is consistently a great time! This is a super opportunity to learn something new in a safe/welcoming environment. You’ll walk away more confident, and most likely with some new girlfriends!

Panama Surf & Yoga Camp - Women Only
Dates: January 10-17, 2026
Cost: $3195 ( $800 Deposit)

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Hiking Japan's MCT Trail Small Group Tour

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Dates: October 25 - November 1, 2025
Cost: $4200 ( $840 Deposit)
I have some availability...and I have no idea why! What are you waiting for?!

Ready to ditch the tourist crowds and dive into a wild, off-the-radar Japanese adventure? Join me in 2025 for an epic journey through Tohoku, one of Japan’s best-kept secrets! We’ll hike, bike, and kayak along the breathtaking Michinoku Coastal Trail, soaking in stunning ocean views, charming villages, and incredible local culture—all without the selfie-stick stampede.

This is not your typical Japan tour. It’s raw, authentic, and packed with adventure, camaraderie, and (of course) amazing food. Think fresh seafood, hidden gems, and unforgettable connections with locals who rarely see travelers like us.

I’m beyond excited to share this slice of Japan that most never experience. If you’re intrigued but unsure—let’s chat! I’d love to tell you why this adventure is so special.

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Nepal Women's Hiking Adventure ​
Dates: September 16 - 29, 2025
Cost: $2790 ( $400 Deposit)

Sorry guys - this is just for the ladies!

Hike among these peaks in the Everest region with me and a group of other hike-loving women. This trip offers a perfect mix of outdoor exploration and cultural immersion. You'll enjoy the company of like-minded female trekkers as we journey through the world's highest and most breathtaking landscapes. It promises awe-inspiring 360-degree mountain views and the chance to interact with the people of the Khumbu Valley.

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Finally - if none of my tours hit your wish list for travel - then check out these trips from my long-time friends, expert travelers, and bloggers:

Kris and Tom, of Travel Past 50, are leading a small group tour to Scandinavia September 18-29, 2025 - their second tour to Sweden and Norway. They’ve created their own, unique itinerary combining deep dives into food and culture, custom guided city tours, and options for short hikes along St. Olav’s Way pilgrimage route. They are offering a $125 off discount for people enrolling before March 31^st. View the full itinerary.

Seen and Heard

I was recently interviewed for this article in Huff Post. Regardless of your age - you'll find some great recomendations here! Amazing Destinations To Visit In Your 50s ​

Travel News

New JourneyWoman Study Shows Solo Women 50+ Feel Undervalued by the Travel Industry - do you agree?

​40% of Americans over 50 want to travel solo (here’s where they’re going)​

​Discover the Benefits of Group hiking Trips for Women​

My friend Becki is holding another free webinar about training for hiking adventures! Catch her webinar - Top 10 Training Mistakes + How to Avoid Them​
Thursday, March 27 at 8 Eastern/7 Central/6 Mountain/5 Pacific. Whether you’re new to hiking or a “weekend warrior” day hiker, training for a multi-day hiking trip can pose some pitfalls.

Ottsworld Blog Posts

Keeping on the fear theme..

Ottsworld Travel Discounts

If you want to experience Ireland but couldn't make one of my tours this year - check out Ireland Walk Hike Bike - they do custom tours, group tours, and self-guided itineraries through the west coast of Ireland! Use code OttsWorld2023 for 5% off their offerings.

Get $100 off at Adventure Life on your next custom trip anywhere in the world. Just tell them Ottsworld sent you!

Get 5% off your Patagonia travels with my friends at Chile Nativo! They will be running my Patagonia ebiking trip and I love them! Use code Ottsworld for 5% off ANY of their regular, non-custom programs (including W hiking and puma tracking).

If you plan a trip to Japan, check out OKU Japan for its incredible multiday hikes and cultural activities in lesser-known areas. Get a 5% Discount for people using code OTTSWORLD5.

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If you've been finding value in these newsletters and the info I've been sharing, please forward this along to any travel-loving friends whom you think might find them useful!

Use these helpful links to book your next trip:

• Get my Free ebook Where to Go & When​
• Read through my 99 Travel Tips before you go
• Book your travel insurance with the company I use, Allianz Travel Insurance​
• Check out my Gear Shop on my Amazon Store​

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