Thorang-La Pass
Thorang-La Pass, Nepal

Packing List for Trekking in Nepal

Despite the sense of wonder and adventure associated with a trek through the Himalayas, the journey does not have to be as rough as you would think. Surprisingly, trekking in Nepal does not have to involve any camping. Due to the frequency of small villages and "tea houses" along many popular hiking paths, most visitors and trekkers stay the night in small hotels or guest houses which provide a comfortable stay, meals, and even toilets. So, if we're not camping, then what do we need? Some basic outdoor equipment is necessary, as are good shoes and clothing for multiple climates. We're talking about the Himalayas, where high altitudes can mean cold weather and rain (but not always). Food and water are also readily available, but a reusable water bottle and water purifiers can save you some cash along the way, too.

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The Gardens, Bay of Fires, Tasmania
The Gardens, Bay of Fires, Tasmania, by Tourism Australia / Graham Freeman

Tasmania

Looking at a map of the world, Tasmania is the small island under mainland Australia. Don’t let its small size convince you that this is a one or two day destination. Tasmania is jam packed with friendly wildlife, delicious food and wine, award-winning whiskey, stunning scenery and some of the freshest air on the planet. Add to that it was named Lonely Planet’s fourth "Top 10 Regions in the World to Visit in 2015" and then ask yourself "Why have I not visited?"

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Pikes Winery
Pikes Winery, Clare Valley, South Australia (from the South Australian Tourism Commission)

Food and Wine in South Australia

Did you know that Australia’s food and wine scene is bursting with creative chefs, skilled purveyors and exciting winemakers producing fresh and innovative flavors that are the envy of the world? With a rich and varied landscape capable of supporting a variety of fresh and tantalizing produce coupled with a long immigrant history, Australia’s fusion food really sets itself apart. Multicultural diversity influences each producer’s enthusiasm, passion and experimentation in a different fashion allowing for a uniquely Australian style to unfold.

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Uluru, Australia
Photo By Tourism Australia

Experience the Indigenous Side of Australia

The Aboriginal peoples of Australia are considered one of the world’s most ancient living cultures. With a history dating back more than 50,000 years, their culture is rich with spirituality and wonder. Their deep connection to the land is showcased through their rituals, art, dance, music and Dreamtime stories - the time when their ancestral spirits created the land and all life. A trip to Australia wouldn’t be complete without experiencing at least some of the cultural activities of the Indigenous peoples. Sure, Australia has beautiful beaches, the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsunday Islands, and so on – but there’s a lot more to offer when you get a more cultural and historical perspective.

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Making Memories at a Dude Ranch

Sometimes you want to get off the beaten track, and sometimes you want comfort. Sometimes you want an adventure to escape “real life”, and sometimes you want a little peace and quiet to relax. Well, on a dude ranch, you can have everything. The noises of construction and sirens (and your boss) are left at home and replaced with the sounds of a gurgling stream, birds chirping, children laughing, and even silence. If you have ever fantasized about leaving your daily commute behind and replacing it with horses on the trail, or natural experiences all around, then a trip to an authentic working dude ranch may be just what you’ve been looking for.

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The Great Wall of China near Beijing
The Great Wall near Beijing

Photo Friday: Beijing

Beijing is a masterpiece of human culture. We spent about two weeks in the city, fell in love with it, and watched the old mix with the new. Residents bike up and down the hutong alleyways while new cars zip along the wide boulevards past rising skyscrapers. We've all heard that China is growing at a phenomenal pace, but you have to see it in person to fully understand the transformation. Here are some photos from our recent travels in this amazing city.

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London Bridge (Tower Bridge) : Reflection on the River Thames
London Bridge (Tower Bridge) : Reflection on the River Thames by Anirudh Koul

10 Free Things to do in London

London: city of bankers and the super rich. Well, it’s certainly that, but London is also a raggle taggle city of many other kinds of life and the kind of place where you never really know what’s going to be round the next corner. So if you want to see the city without the enormous expense, don’t be satisfied with the usual tourist hangouts, get around.

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