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2024 marked a year of exceptional expedition. I traveled extensively...74,589 miles across four continents and 9 countries. I launched Globe-Trotting Addicts, a travel blog and memoir, which is the perfect moniker as I reflect on the year. My passion for exploration launched a side hustle as a travel advisor, and I am thrilled at the memories and experiences I helped craft for my clients. The more I travel, the more I need to see. Travel is the ultimate equalizer. The ultimate teacher. Regardless of coordinates on the Earth, regardless of culture, human beings are the same everywhere. They are inherently kind and inquisitive. They want to live a good life, care for their families, and be the best version of themselves. A tired child will throw themselves down on the ground of an airport whether their parents are wearing a Lululemon tracksuit, an abaya, niqab, or ghutra. The din of a classroom sounds EXACTLY the same from the west side of Las Vegas to an island off of the east coast of Sub-Saharan Africa. Experiencing the way of life of other people while visiting their country is the only way to see this. I read countless travel blogs daily, follow trends in travel and aviation, and can attest that only genuinely being somewhere shows you what it is really like. My trip to Tokyo this summer was a reminder that no matter how much research you do, a destination always has the power to surprise you—sometimes in wonderful ways, and other times with unexpected disappointments. Travel is also about mindset. We are not guaranteed tomorrow. Every day isn't a fantasy; in fact, it's far from it. There are so many ways to hack travel to make it affordable, approachable, and, yes, even free. Capitalizing on time and opportunity, seeing as much of the world as I can while I can is my compass and guiding point for midlife travel. Hans Christian Anderson said it best, “To move, to breathe, to fly, to float, to gain all while you give, to roam the roads of lands remote, to travel is to live.” As I reflect on day 365 of 2024, I know that I am blessed to do what I love and have the health to do it. As long as I am able, I will continue to explore, to roam, to photograph this enormous world and the beautiful humans I meet along the way. Where will 2025 take you?

Just taking a moment to soak in Kyoto's garden magic, kimono and all. Welcome to Kyoto, a city where ancient traditions blend with modern Japan. Kyoto's timeless beauty lies in its Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, the kimono-clad locals and visitors, and the nostalgic charm of the old town streets.  Kyoto is home to over 400 Shinto shrines, the most notable being Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, known for its 1000 vermillion Tori gates. The 1000 vermillion Tori gates at Fushimi Inari As Shinto Shrines are free to the public and open 24 hours a day, they are dependent upon donations.  Resist the urge to stop and climb to the top of Fushimi Inari to lose the crowds The gates are adorned with names of donors who contributed to Fushimi Inari.    Arguably one of the most popular places in Kyoto, the base is crowded with tourists taking selfies from every angle. The trick is to climb to the top, as you will lose the crowds at the halfway point. It isn't particularly strenuous but will get the blood pumping, especially on a hot summer evening.   A fellow photographer captures the beauty at Kiyomizu-dera However, although Fushimi Inari is one of the most famous shrines, my favorite Ema are small wooden tablets used by followers of Shinto and Buddhism to inscribe their prayers. place is the Buddhist Temple Kiyomizu-dera; it was founded in 780 and is nestled against a forest that provides a bit of nature while visiting a city of almost 1.5 million.  Unlike Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples have visiting hours as they do not depend on donations to operate. I enjoyed it so much that I visited Kiyomizu-dera three times. I highly recommend being there when it first opens as you have the grounds primarily for yourselves – as much as possible in such a popular destination.  The grounds of Kiyomizu-dera are incredible to explore. Although the central part is the Buddhist Temples, there are shrines and a pagoda, as well.  In addition, At the base of Kiyomizudera Temple's main hall, you'll find the Otowa Waterfall, a charming spot with a bit of magic. The waterfall splits into three separate streams, and visitors can use cups on long poles to drink from each one. Legend has it that each stream offers a special blessing: one for longevity, another for success in school, and the third for a fortunate love life. It's a fun and meaningful tradition to try out when you visit!  Considering I opted for the middle one, I imagine I am headed back to school!   The Otowa Waterfall at opening to avoid the crowds. Another temple I really enjoyed was Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple.  It is located on the outskirts of Kyoto and about a 30-minute drive from Nijo Castle. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is a place like no other, home to around 1,200 incredibly unique and whimsical statues. These aren't your run-of-the-mill sculptures; they're Rakan statues, each one representing the disciples of the historical Buddha. What's really cool is that each statue was carved by different artisans, so no two are quite alike. It's like stepping into a vibrant, sculptural wonderland where every corner holds a new, quirky surprise!  I also loved that Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is off the well-trodden tourist path and had very few visitors.  I personally am always seeking places that are less popular, and I indeed found it at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is a place like no other, home to around 1,200 incredibly unique and whimsical statues. I had this bamboo grove entirely to myself! If you’re all about uncovering hidden gems, here’s another secret: skip the usual Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and make your way to Shimokawaracho instead. Just next to the parking lot for the Ryōzen Kannon memorial, you'll find a charming bamboo grove that's often overlooked. Keep an eye out for the massive Buddha statue in the distance—you won’t be able to miss it! It’s a serene spot that offers a peaceful escape from the crowds and a unique Kyoto experience. Strolling through the streets of Kyoto, especially in the charming district of Gion, feels like stepping into a living postcard. Locals walk by in their beautiful kimonos, and I'll admit, I had no idea these weren't just for special occasions. I always thought kimonos were reserved for festivals or ceremonies, but here, they're an everyday wardrobe staple! Despite the sweltering summer heat and sticky humidity, the grace and elegance of everyone wearing them were truly impressive. I can absolutely attest that I would have struggled wearing one in the heat. What really caught me off guard was the sheer number of kimono rental shops in the area. Before my trip, I would have imagined that wearing a kimono as a blonde-haired, blue-eyed American might be seen as cultural appropriation. But it turns out it's quite the opposite! Visitors are actually encouraged to embrace the tradition and don a kimono for the day. It's a perfect example of why travel is so eye-opening. No amount of research can replace the experience of seeing and learning things firsthand.  Gion, the city's old town, is pure magic. The buildings here are stories from another era, their facades oozing old-world charm. And let's not forget the Hōkan-ji pagoda—its graceful silhouette against the skyline is a sight to behold. This beautiful couple poses for a selfie with the Hōkan-ji pagoda in the distance. But here's the thing: everyone knows how enchanting Gion is, which means that the streets are swarming with people by the time the clock strikes 10 AM. It's tough to soak in the charm when you're elbow-to-elbow with thousands of other visitors.  Running through the unusually empty streets of Kyoto with wild abandon! So, here's another insider tip: get up early. I ventured out a few minutes after 6:00 AM, and while I was surprised to find quite a few fellow photographers already at work, the tranquility of the early morning made it possible to truly appreciate the magic of Gion. Trust me, it's worth the early wake-up call! Scroll through the images for more inspiration to visit. Kyoto awaits – are you ready to unlock its timeless treasures?

Sunday, August 13, 2023, was a unique day in Buenos Aires: Election Day when Argentinian law mandates that everyone votes and bars are closed for alcohol sales.  It was our final day in Argentina and of our international adventure, and we were eager to savor one last glass, or maybe two, of that delightful Argentinian Malbec we’d grown so fond of. We decided to revisit D’Oro Italian Bar, where we had experienced a fantastic meal a few nights earlier. We planned to enjoy a great dinner, even if we couldn't indulge in a glass of wine. When we arrived, the place seemed unusually dark. It presented as if it were closed entirely, which would not have been completely off the mark considering it was Election Day.  However, I had a hunch that maybe, just maybe, it wasn’t entirely shut down. So, we pushed open the front door, which was unlocked, and discovered a floor-to-ceiling black curtain that had not been there the previous time we visited. With a bit of trepidation, we slowly moved the curtain aside—and to our amazement, the restaurant was alive and bustling! Not only that, but wine was being poured freely! We had accidentally uncovered our very own secret Argentinian speakeasy on Election Day! It felt like we’d stumbled upon a hidden gem where the usual rules didn’t apply, making our final evening in Buenos Aires an adventure of its own!

Travel has always been my passion, and I've been fortunate to explore incredible places. One thing I've always made sure to bring with me on my journeys is my camera. Even as a child, I always had a camera with me when exploring new places. There's something so special about capturing the world's beauty through photography. Whether it's a stunning landscape, a bustling city street, or simply a moment shared with a new friend, I love being able to preserve these memories for years to come. For me, travel and photography go hand in hand, and I can't imagine one without the other.

I can't get enough of the rush that comes with travel. From Napa, I hopped on a not-so-quick flight to Honolulu, and after an unforgettable night in Waikiki, I was off again, this time bound for Tokyo. Arriving at my hotel around 10 PM, I was determined to beat jetlag (no such luck), so I went for a stroll through Shinjuku. Little did I know that this impromptu decision would lead me to Omoide Yokocho, a captivating bar district exuding an old-world charm. The nostalgic atmosphere here is rooted in the open-air markets that emerged after World War II. Despite the late hour, I was amazed that many locals were beginning their night out, mainly salarymen unwinding after a long work week. It was fascinating to witness their version of a Friday night celebration,  and I was savoring the authentic rhythm of local Japanese life. Taking a seat at a traditional yakitori restaurant, I muddled through my basic Japanese and savored a Sapporo beer. It was only later that I discovered that this not-so-hidden gem of an alley is also fondly known as Drunkard's Alley. Coming from the wine country of Napa Valley, the irony of finding myself in a place like this on my first night in Tokyo was not lost on me. It was an unexpected, exciting start to my adventure in this incredible city.

1. Digital Convenience: If you have an iPhone, skip the Welcome Suica card—just load the Suica card in your Wallet app. It’s a game-changer and incredibly easy to use! 2. Language Is Key: In Japan, a little language effort goes a long way. Knowing a few phrases can turn a “no” into a “yes,” as I found out when we were suddenly welcomed into restaurants that initially turned us away. It’s worth it. 3. Beyond the Beaten Path: Over-tourism is a big deal in Japan. So, why not wander off the Tokyo-Osaka-Kyoto trail? We ventured to Takayama and loved it so much we cut our Kyoto stay short to linger there. No regrets! 4. Photographer’s Wake-Up Call: If you’re chasing that perfect shot in Kyoto, set your alarm even earlier. By 6 AM, the prime spots are already buzzing with fellow photographers. 5. Summer? Think Twice: Unless you love the feeling of being roasted alive, avoid Japan in the summer. As someone from one of America’s hottest cities, trust me—I’ve never been so hot in my life. 6. Train Travel Made Easy: No need to stress about Shinkansen or JR line tickets ahead of time. You can easily grab them when you’re there. 7. Metro Mastery: Tokyo’s metro system is shockingly easy to navigate, even for first-timers. 8. Culinary Heaven: In Japan, you don’t need a guide to find amazing food—it’s everywhere. So skip the frantic search for the “best” spots and dive into whatever looks good. 9. Get Those Steps In: Japan is a walking paradise (or challenge, depending on how you see it). Start prepping your legs now—you’ll be racking up the steps like never before. 10. Cultural Riches Await: Japan is one of the most culturally enriching and authentic places you’ll ever experience. Be ready to soak it all in.

If you think overtourism is a made-up term, think again.  Whether it stems from COVID and “revenge” tourism or the Instagram effect, people all around the globe are tapping into their wanderlust and exploring.   Tourism money helps local economies, but as a traveler, it can be challenging to enjoy a destination when beautiful places are inundated with throngs of people, from individual travelers to tour groups.  I am hard-pressed to think of a location experiencing overtourism more than Japan is currently. It was one of the last Asian holdouts to open its borders after the pandemic, and people from around the globe are visiting in record numbers. This, coupled with a weak Yen compared to the U.S. dollar, means that mass tourism is alive and well in The Land of the Rising Sun. Japan is arguably one of the most authentic countries you can visit, as it hasn’t experienced much, if any, globalization. Japan's culture, with its distinctive cuisine and architectural marvels, offers an authentic experience that's truly one-of-a-kind. It's a journey showcasing the country's unique heritage worth exploring. Keep in mind, though, that this isn’t exactly a secret, as evidenced by my experience at Sensō-Ji Temple or the streets of Kyoto. It seems Japan is on every traveler’s shortlist.     But who is to blame?  Is the Instagram effect on travel real?  Are people viewing stunning photos of faraway places and thinking, “I need to go THERE !”  Perhaps.  But the city planners who approve and support the hotel rooms aren’t without some responsibility. When does the money tourists spend hurt the local community instead of helping it? Can it actually have negative effects? Just this summer, the citizens of Barcelona started to confront mass tourism with public protests asking tourists to simply go home.  The city has taken steps in the last ten years, including banning new hotel construction, raising the tourist tax on accommodations, and considering eliminating short-term rentals (think Airbnb ) in the coming years.   What can you do if your dream destination is experiencing mass tourism?  If your travel research brings you to an area you learn is experiencing large-scale tourism, consider a second-tier location.  Case in point with my recent trip to Japan, go beyond the beaten path.  Wander off the Tokyo-Osaka-Kyoto trail and find towns and villages that Instagram hasn’t discovered…yet.

Ibiza with your lifelong best friend sounds like a dream—and it was. But did you know that Ibiza has an off-season? We didn't quite appreciate that until after  we booked our trip. Tagging on to the tail end of my friend's business trip, we decided to have a girl's weekend, taking advantage of the fact that we were both in Europe at roughly the same time.   The brief hour-long flight from Barcelona was turbulent, as we landed in quite a rainstorm. The entire plane erupted in applause, and many people made the Sign of the Cross to celebrate our landing safely. This dramatic landing was undoubtedly an ominous way to start our visit to Ibiza!  After collecting our bags, a rare time I checked a bag, we made our way to the Eurostars Ibiza , a quaint and sufficient boutique hotel with ample room for both of us.   Despite the rain, we were eager to explore Dalt Vila, the island's fortified old town. We walked for about 15 minutes and arrived to discover incredibly quaint, narrow, cobblestone streets and beautiful terraces. There was only one thing. The owners shuttered all the terraces for the winter! It was a literal ghost town. It was easy to imagine how busy it must be during the on season, with patrons spilling out into the streets, tourists and locals alike enjoying a pitcher, or perhaps two, of Sangria and overindulging on Croquetas de Jamón Serrano, ham croquettes.    We were in this incredible location in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea.  Alone.   Was it fatigue from traveling or disappointment? We decided we were absolutely famished. We walked through what seemed to be the entire town and finally stumbled upon a cute pizzeria serving lunch. Truth be told, they could have been serving anything, and we would have loved it. We dined on pizza and Sangria and laughed until we cried. The best friend-think-tank booked a trip to a closed island! After lunch, the rain started falling in sheets, and we decided to return to our hotel. Flying to Ibiza for a glimpse of its party reputation was definitely something we wanted to see, but walking through the rain and getting soaked to the skin, seeing many closed businesses and empty streets, was a disappointment, to say the least. It is an island of roughly 154,000 people, yet very few companies were open. Did we really fly all this way only to have the rain ruin our plans? Better yet, did we really fly all this way to a closed island? Certainly, there should be some life with a population of over 150,000! Where was everyone? After quick or not-so-quick power siestas, we decided to head back into town to find an open restaurant. The rain had subsided, and we walked towards the marina and were pleasantly surprised that there was more life than we had seen earlier in the day. Restaurants were open, and locals settled in and enjoyed Saturday night with family and friends. We grabbed one of the last open tables and had an authentic Spanish tapas meal. From the croquetas Jamón and patatas bravas to the fresh guacamole and queso idiazabal, we overindulged on scrumptious plates, which, of course, were washed down quite nicely with glasses of cava and Sangria! Before we knew it, it was midnight. Realizing that the famous clubs of Ibiza opened at 11:30 PM, we decided to go check one out. Initially slightly self-conscious that we weren't 22, we decided that we didn't travel to the middle of the Mediterranean Sea to chicken out. A short walk later, we found our way to Lolas Disco Ibiza . It was relatively easy to find as we could feel the bass thumping from down the street. After paying the cover charge, we open the first door of a two-door entry. I quickly grab my phone and start videoing our entrance. Two lifelong best friends are entering an iconic Ibiza disco! Drennan opens the second door triumphantly as if to exaggerate our entrance and… We are the ONLY  people in the disco! Not a soul in the room!   Despite being so proud of 1) just being at a disco and 2) actually staying awake this long, midnight was evidently too early for the cool kid crowd.   We decided to order at least one drink. I ordered a glass of red wine, and Drennan ordered a cava. The bartender, a scantily clad vape chain-smoking woman, informed us that we could only purchase hard liquor. It is all they have! We solved the mystery of why people get so smashed in Ibiza! We decide to cut our losses and head back to the hotel to collapse. The next day, however, the sun shone, the storm passed, and a new day was upon us. We rented bikes from Hasha Ibiza . The company delivered the bikes to our hotel, and we spent the next few hours biking around Ibiza from one beach bar to the next. Nothing is more magical than having such a unique and incredible experience with your best friend of over fifty years. We rode along the gorgeous coastline, sampled more Sangria and cava, and explored this beautiful destination! Although we didn't experience the world-famous Ibiza nightlife, we experienced a stunning island with friendly locals enjoying their off-season before the summer commences! And for what it is worth, we enjoyed a girls' weekend experience for the ages!

If you're dreaming of a summer getaway that blends outdoor thrills with community vibes and cultural delights, look no further than Park City, Utah. Tucked away in the majestic Wasatch Mountains, Park City comes alive during the summer months with a lineup of activities that'll have you soaking up the sun and embracing the laid-back mountain lifestyle. Kick Off with Community Races: Run, Jog, or Walk! First things first, lace up those sneakers because Park City's all about staying active and having fun. Whether you're up for a quick 5k sprint or ready to challenge yourself with a 10k race, the community races here are a blast. It's not just about the finish line—it's about the cheers, high-fives, and the incredible feeling of accomplishment. Silly Market Sundays: Where Quirk Meets Local Flavor Picture this: Main Street buzzing with music, artsy booths lining the sidewalks, and the smell of delicious local eats wafting through the air. That's the Silly Market for you! Every Sunday, this quirky festival brings together artists, musicians, and food vendors, making it the perfect spot to wander, shop, and snack your way through the day. Hit the Trails: Bike, Hike, or Just Breathe Ready to explore? Park City's trail network is your playground. Whether cruising on a bike through scenic routes, hiking up a trail for panoramic views, or paddling on the Jordanelle for a serene kayaking adventure, nature's your playground here. It's all about soaking in that fresh mountain air and feeling the rush of adventure at every turn. Dining Outdoors: Good Food, Great Vibes After a day of exploring, refuel at one of Park City's many outdoor patios. From cozy cafes to lively bistros, there's something for every craving. Picture yourself enjoying a hearty meal under the stars, sharing stories with friends, and soaking in that laid-back summer vibe. July 4th Fun: Parades, Runs, and Fireworks Nothing says summer like Independence Day in Park City. Start your day and join the community for a spirited 5k run—it's all about celebrating freedom and feeling the camaraderie. Next, enjoy a festive parade down Main Street, where the whole town comes together in red, white, and blue. Then, End the night with fireworks that light up the sky and leave you in awe. Culture Galore: Music, Rodeo, and Aerial Thrills Summer nights in Park City are filled with culture and excitement. The Deer Valley Music Festival brings you soul-stirring performances by the Utah Symphony under the stars. For a taste of the Wild West, head to the Oakley Rodeo for bull riding and barrel racing, that'll keep you on the edge of your seat. And don't miss the Flying Aces All-Stars show—where athletes defy gravity with jaw-dropping stunts that'll cheer you for more. Embrace the Magic So there you have it—summer in Park City is about embracing adventure, connecting with the community, and savoring every moment. Whether you're here for the races, the markets, the trails, kayaking on the Jordanelle, or the cultural festivities, this mountain town has something special for everyone. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to make memories that'll last a lifetime in Park City, where summer memories are made. .

Summer in Park City means being outside and enjoying the great outdoors.  Of the many ways to enjoy a gorgeous summer day is to hit the expansive trail network and go for a run. Last week, I participated in the Park City Trail Series 5K and absolutely loved it.  The expansive views, the cool morning air, not to mention I felt great! It was so great that I came home and immediately researched where to participate in another race this weekend.  This is Park City in the summer; surely I could find a race somewhere  in Utah.  There were races all over the state today, but low and behold, I found one 10 minutes from my home!  A 7k and a 5k are pretty much the same; what is another mile or so?  The trail was touted as foot-friendly, with a few long, steady climbs and fast downhills.   Sounded like a perfect way to spend a Saturday morning.   The race was in tandem with a half marathon, and the half marathoners started first.  As I loitered at the race start, waiting for the 7K to commence, I started REALLY looking at my fellow runners.  It didn't take long for me to realize they were actual runners.  Not runner wanna-bees, like myself.  Hardcore, fabulously fit, experienced trail runners.  Huh. I positioned myself at the back of the pack, thinking that would be the most thoughtful and courteous thing to do.  There was absolutely no reason to do so.  Once given the mark to go, these people took off with such speed and grit that I was left in the dust.  I can now attest to where that expression originates.   I kept running and squinting to try and keep at least a glimpse of the runners in front of me, but before I knew it, I was alone on the trail.  I immediately thought of the herds of impala you see on the Serengeti — and then there is the lone one from the group. It is that lone impala living its best life that a cheetah can spot from 800 meters away to stalk slowly, hoping for its next feast.  This is great, I said out loud; I am prey. The story about the lion and the gazelle was at the forefront of my mind: Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up, knowing it must outrun the fastest lion or it will be killed. Every morning in Africa, a lion wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the slowest gazelle, or it will starve. It doesn't matter whether you're the lion or a gazelle; when the sun comes up, you'd better run.    I kept going and saw on an uphill climb that someone in front of me had started to walk.  This is perfect, I thought. I can catch her, pass her, and then someone else can be dead last.  Well, no sooner did I catch up that I was the absolute inspiration she needed to get her ass moving.  That was the last I saw of her.   Even though my race was ugly, the views certainly were not.  Snow-capped mountains and wildflowers were everywhere as I snaked from 6,500 feet to 7,1000 feet along the trail.   Finally, I hit the 5k mark and a lone racecourse photographer who looked like he possibly took a nap while waiting for me raised his lens to snap a few photos.  He shared some encouraging words, and I thought, wow, a consummate professional. There is genuinely nothing happening here worth encouraging.       As I came downhill for the last half mile and could see the finish line in sight, I could hear the announcer getting the crowd excited.  Taking one earbud out, I wanted to hear what kind of words he was saying to generate such a level of excitement for me. Enthusiastically, he shouted, "And here comes our first half-marathon finisher."  For the love of Pete, No!  Please, no.  I didn't compete in a half marathon!  This reverie continued as I approached the finish line, and I even gestured no with my hand going across my neck with a last-ditch effort to have him stop.  As I crossed the finish line, a lovely course volunteer handed me a medal. Immediately, I said, "I didn't run a half marathon!  This isn't for me!" She said, "Oh, don't worry.  Everyone knows that you didn't! The first half-marathon finisher is directly behind you!" Oh. My. Word. Trying not to die completely, I walked to the water station, where the woman I had at least tried  to chase came over to congratulate me enthusiastically.   "Wow, you really slowed down there.  I thought for sure, since I haven't raced in many years, I would be last!"  I'm so glad I could inspire you there, sister. Rest assured, the dead-last accolades belong to me. With all of this said, I realized I would always rather be dead last than first on the couch.  No, it wasn't pretty.  In fact, it was rather quite ugly.  But I completed a 7k trail race in the mountains on a gorgeous Saturday morning as a quinquagenarian.  Even at the Olympic Time Trials, someone comes in dead last.   And who knows, in the next race, I might be better.

As a travel enthusiast, one of the most rewarding aspects of my adventures is the opportunity to experience culture, locations, and events firsthand rather than relying on reputations alone.  This weekend, I had the incredible chance to attend the Indianapolis 500, and it truly epitomized why firsthand experiences are so essential. Traveling allows us to dive deep into the culture of a place.  The Indy 500, with its rich history and traditions, is a cultural phenomenon in its own right. From the pre-race festivities to the post-race celebrations, the event is steeped in rituals that reflect the spirit and passion of its fans.   Attending the race, I witnessed the camaraderie, the pride, and the unique customs that make the Indy 500 such a beloved event.    There's no substitute for being part of an event as legendary as the Indy 500.  Many people have heard about the race's reputation, and let's be honest, most of it isn't positive.  Standing on pit row before the race, looking around, I realized this is precisely why I travel.  This is the reason to confirm or refute reputations firsthand. I had preconceived notions about what I would experience and observe at the race going into it.   Instead of listening to the commentary of others, visit places for yourself.  The roar of the engines, the precision of the pit crews, and the fans' excitement create an atmosphere that's simply electric.  Watching the race live and feeling the vibrations of the cars is truly an unforgettable experience. Had I only listened to the opinions of others and not had an open mind, I would have missed one of the most unique sporting events imaginable. An empowering aspect of travel is forming your own opinions based on personal experiences.  Attending the Indy 500 allowed me to see beyond its reputation and understand why it is called "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing." If you are hesitant about visiting a place or attending an event because of what you've heard, I urge you to take a leap.  Travel with curiosity and an open heart.  The world is full of surprises, and there's no better way to appreciate that than by experiencing it firsthand.  Indy 500 surprised me with every lap, and I am thrilled to have experienced it. .

Pura Vida is far more than a tagline created by the tourism authority. In Costa Rica, Pura Vida embodies how Costa Ricans live a peaceful life inspired by the natural beauty surrounding them. This small country abolished its military and, as a result, is the most peaceful democracy in the region. Considering Costa Rica is one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world, having more than a quarter of its land protected as designated national parks, conservation areas, and wildlife reserves, it is only natural that this Central American country is a pioneer in eco-tourism. The commitment to renewable energy, particularly wind power and hydroelectric power, and wind turbines are seen dotting the coast on approach from the air. Despite its small size, Costa Rica harbors 5% of the world's biodiversity while occupying just 0.03% of the Earth's surface. Having visited the Guanacaste province in 2017, I had the opportunity to return for four nights recently. Guanacaste is an area in northwest Costa Rica and frustratingly close to the Nicaraguan border. I tried every way imaginable to cross the border and get a glimpse of Nicaragua; however, it wasn't meant to be. Traveling a small segment of the Pan-American highway, a transportation route that extends from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska to Ushuaia, Argentina, I explored what felt like every inch of the province. Driving through the small town of La Cruz towards Liberia, the province's capital, I floated down the Rio Cañas and deep in a mangrove on a simple pontoon boat. The dry forest and mangrove are teamed from each body of water with various species of monkeys, alligators, and birds. Sloths nestle in the high canopy as these nocturnal mammals slumber during the day. Temperatures soaring to 100 degrees, coupled with the end of the dry season, equated to a burnt landscape so dry and brittle it seemed it would ignite into an inferno at any moment. The smell of burning Earth was present, and as we looked across the horizon, it was possible to see various plumes of smoke from fires. The vision of the green, lush landscape that Costa Rica is known for is not present in Guanacaste during the dry season. The plethora of volcanoes that snake through the country's center means the beaches have darker sand due to the volcanic activity. With that said, watching the sunset over the Pacific was the trip's highlight, and I find it fascinating that the same vantage point each night can yield such different and dramatic results. On the quest to 100, I don't anticipate returning to Costa Rica for quite some time or at all. However, as my travels continue, I will take Pura Vida with me. The beautiful spirit of Costa Ricans will be a part of me.