Soles of a Nomad

Wondering if you really need to learn about a country before you visit? You don’t have to become a historian or linguist—but even a little background can turn your trip from surface-level sightseeing into something far more meaningful. This post lays out two compelling reasons why doing some pre-trip learning helps you connect more deeply with the places you visit—and offers practical, reasonable-effort ways to get started.

Sea lions, penguins, and guano — oh my! The Ballestas Islands may not be the Galapagos, but they offer a chaotic and entertaining slice of coastal Peru. Here’s what to expect (and what not to).

Practical travel tips for Luang Prabang, Laos—including how to get there, where to stay, what to do, and how to enjoy this beautiful tourist trap without falling into common pitfalls.

Relentless touts in Vietnam taught me that humor and kindness go further than frustration — and made for one of my favorite travel memories.

Life on the Mekong River It is a Competitive World Out There   Everything is a competition.   There, I said it. You know this is true. I...