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Unlike in most parts of Europe, the alpine frontier in Bhutan begins at around 4,000 meters above sea level. These windswept plateaus, made up of vast rugged terrain, are not only home to the highlanders but also a treasure trove of biodiversity — stunted firs and dwarf rhododendrons, blue sheep, marmots, takins, snow leopards, and, most notably, yaks and the highly sought-after golden fungus (Cordyceps sinensis), which are the pulse and lifeblood of the highland economy.
Like all fretwork by Frank Lloyd Wright, the stylized cedar cutouts over the upper windows of the Gordon House are unique. Some people think the pattern looks like upside-down saw blades in a nod to Oregon's lumber industry. Others believe it resembles fallen trees or branches, tour guide and assistant manager Mairee MacInnes remarked.
Talk about a getaway. Indonesia’s 17,000 islands include Sumatra, the world’s sixth largest. Making up an incredible slice of its west coast, West Sumatra hugs the Indian Ocean, where 100 miles offshore lie the fabled and exotic Mentawai Islands. Engaging locals include a mix of colorful Indo, tribal, and missionary characters who—mixed with stunning visitor affordability—make these islands a true jungle-meets-ocean nirvana.
Hidden away in Aspen’s industrial outskirts near the airport, Mawa’s Kitchen appears out of nowhere. At first glance, the quiet, warehouse-filled street seems an unlikely setting for a culinary hotspot. But step inside, and that illusion quickly falls away. Here in this light, airy space, with its French-inspired wallpaper and forest-green bar, Mawa McQueen’s world comes alive.
Just 40 years ago, the Indigenous Aymara women of Bolivia held a specific place in society. Often barred from certain restaurants, cafes, even many forms of public transportation, they mostly worked for the middle and higher class as domestic workers. This meant that had little chance at continuing education or any real form of integration into Bolivian life.
Mexico’s southernmost state of Chiapas boasts steamy tropical rainforest jungles, fertile and pine-forested mountains, and standout colonial cities and towns. Known for its cobblestone streets, baroque buildings, and elegant plazas, San Cristóbal de las Casas is on many a traveler’s radar. The ruins of Palenque and Yaxchilán are two of the most spectacular archeological sites in the Mayan world. The surrounding jungle remains unscathed, home to cacophonous howler monkeys, brightly colored toucans, and various cats, including jaguars and ocelots.
One of my favorite parts of traveling is trying new foods and discovering unique places. Sometimes, the restaurant becomes the destination. Have I taken long detours just to dine somewhere unforgettable? Absolutely. And honestly, I think you should, too.
Some of my earliest memories are of trips to Indiana. Fields of corn bedecked the seven-hour drive. When we arrived in the small town of Portland, we camped and spent our days exploring rows upon rows of antique steam engines and flea market stalls or eating sausage burgers while watching racehorses and their handlers during early-morning training sessions.
Sidhpur is deeply rooted in both history and Hindu mythology. Since ancient times, the sleepy little town in North Gujarat, India, has been a sacred pilgrimage site among Hindu devotees who honor their maternal ancestors. The town rose to prominence during the rule of the Solanki Dynasty when it became the capital of the state and was named after the famous king Siddhraj Jaisingh.
When I was a kid, I thought everyone popped into quirky little antique shops when they traveled. After all, my family did. We built entire day trips around it. We’d spend hours drifting from shop to shop in Cadiz and Paducah, Kentucky, or Watertown, Pigeon Forge, and Lebanon, Tennessee. Those shops can be as informative as museum visits, especially with a knowledgeable companion. They can help you get to know the area in a distinct way. I still make it a habit to visit antique shops when I travel, and I think you should, too. Here’s why.
The ubiquitous street art, depicting portraits of Ho Chi Minh, flying pigeons, and people waving the national flag, reminded me that this year marks the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification in 1975.
This week, “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” returns to Calgary in the Canadian province of Alberta. Better known as the Calgary Stampede, this annual 10-day event features an opening parade, a rodeo, a festival filled with rides and indulgent treats, as well as pancake breakfasts throughout the community. But, perhaps one of the Calgary Stampede’s most intriguing events is the Elbow River Camp, formerly known as Indian Village.
