I met this unforgettable person while traveling: In South Africa, I met a woman who was a friend of a friend. I wrote ahead to let her know I would be in her town, and could she recommend a good place to stay. She picked me up at the bus stop, gave me a room and a bed – and I stayed two months. That’s hospitality! I should add that I found similar hospitality throughout Africa… 

My funniest or most unusual travel experience: Unusual? That would be the time I was chased by a lioness across a narrow plank over a gorge in Nigeria… or when villagers carved a tree trunk into a canoe for me so I could paddle out of a flood with a Catholic priest in the Philippines… or when I was lost in a minefield in Mozambique… or kept at bay by a poisonous snake at nightfall in Borneo… the more you travel, the more experiences you are bound to have!

I met this unforgettable person while traveling: This is difficult. I need to whittle down a very long list. I will select a guide on a recent trip I took to China. This guy was a frustrated stand-up comedian and he definitely enhanced our trip to and understanding of what can sometimes come across as a very severe place.

My funniest or most unusual travel experience: The time in Germany when my travel pal got the German word for cathedral mixed up with the word for catheter and didn’t figure it out until the next day. Then we understood what those Germans in the bar found so funny. Yet they still helped us find lodging by the big catheter.

What I’ve learned about life and travel during the pandemic: I have followed all the rules to avoid contracting COVID.  However, when early in the pandemic my 99-year-old Mom took a fall and then a turn for the worse, I drove from San Francisco to San Diego to visit her.  As frightened as I was, I stayed several nights in a hotel–I brought my own pillows and kept the windows open–and I am so glad I did because she died about a month after.  I made another trip to bury her.  How terribly sad that many of us had to make such painful travel decisions.  I stopped in Los Angeles on both of those trips to visit my son and his family, but we kept the visits to only about an hour and we sat out in their backyard.  Recently, I finally got on a plane and visited my daughter and her family in San Antonio. I guess I’ve learned that family trumps all, and that if I am going to risk my life on a trip it will be to visit my loved ones and not to visit a travel destination, not even my favorite one–London. 

The destination I would go back to in a minute: India. I finally got to visit it a few years ago and it was everything everyone says – and more … Sensory overload at times and never boring. Agra was fascinating; the Red Fort bustling with locals enjoying a day out and I just loved the Taj Mahal. It is definitely the most beautiful building I have ever seen. Delhi was life in its most vibrant incarnation and Shimla was fascinating with its echoes of the British Raj and air of faded magnificence. I barely touched the surface and must return soon.

Nepal, a country I visited 35years ago, has always been a favourite destination. Not only for the mountain scenery and beautiful architecture but also for the very friendly people. Last year I visited the Galapagos Islands which are even more engaging than I expected – amazing wildlife and unique ecology. So these three are my tops – for now.

I met this unforgettable person while traveling: A Buddhist monk in Pokhara, Nepal. He was on a pilgrimage to the sites related to Buddha. As the sun set over the Annapurna Range, he talked about his faith and travels, why he loved being a monk and was such a gentle, wise, funny man. I’ve been interested in Buddhism ever since. (He said I should become a nun, but that was a step too far!)

My funniest or most unusual travel experience: Going into and exploring the infamous Walled City (now pulled down) in Hong Kong is one that I’ll never forget. It was a maze of damp, narrow, dark passages, home to the notorious Triads and there was a real air of menace. I was very glad to escape in one piece.

What I’ve learned about life and travel during the pandemic: some of the best sights and experiences are on your doorstep. I’m lucky to live in a beautiful part of the world – the Lake District is on my doorstep. But right outside my back door, I discovered walks through fields and along the Lancaster Canal that I had never seen before.

I met this unforgettable person while traveling: In Pfaffenhoffen, Alsace:-“Ursula, we will go on a journey,” announced my courtly octogenarian watchmaker host. Adjourning to his well-stocked library, we discussed politics, religion, history, and geography. He had never travelled, but was better informed than most people. Fluent in five languages, he was studying Italian – to enable him to converse with a newly arrived Italian watchmaker.

My funniest or most unusual travel experience: Regressing – and redressing – as a 16th-century ‘lady’ for the Quebec City New France Festival. Securely laced into a revealing silver-green and grey period gown, I board a horse-drawn carriage procession through Old Quebec City for the Lord’s and Ladies’ Ball hosted by King Louis XIV. A gala soirée, indeed! On the Saturday, again costumed, we stroll through the old city basking in the ambiance and attentions of admiring tourists who enjoy our courtly interactions with fellow nobles as much as we do. All I lack is a lady’s maid to help me escape from those darned stays!

The destination I would go back to in a minute: Definitely South Africa. It’s an easy country to travel in, once you learn to drive on the left side of the road, the people are a cultural mix of friendly, it’s affordable and I’ve made special friends. Plus I’m hooked on safaris in their National Parks.

I met this unforgettable person while traveling: So many, everywhere.

My funniest or most unusual travel experience: 

While driving in Kruger National Park Joan and I were chased by a young bull elephant who might have smelled the over ripe bananas in the back of the truck. Back in camp we noticed a trunk print on the dusty tailgate.

The destination I would go back to in a minute: 

I’ve fallen in love with the south of Spain. Recently I visited Seville, and I was “gobsmacked” by its elegance and open spaces. The city is stunning with its combination of riverfront, majestic gardens, and historical landmarks. And Seville is not alone in its appeal. Cordoba and Granada deserve much more than a couple of days to explore and appreciate. I shall return!

I met this unforgettable person while traveling: 

My first solo travel adventure was to visit London for the wedding of Prince William and Kate. (Along with a million other tourists.) On the flight from the United States, I was seated between an older woman and a teenage girl who, I learned, were related. When I asked if they wanted to sit together, the grandmother made it clear that she preferred the aisle. During the flight, I understood why. If she wasn’t heading for the toilet, she was standing on her seat to reach into the overhead luggage compartment. While the 83-year-old grandmother was in motion, the granddaughter was non-plussed. They’d traveled together often. When we exited the airplane the following day, we exchanged our ” best wishes.” It was then that I noticed granny’s backpack. It’s this unforgettable stranger who I’ve chosen to model myself after – the grandmother who’s fun enough to be a travel buddy, fit enough to stand on the airplane seat; and cool enough to wear a granny backpack.

 My funniest or most unusual travel experience: 

My most unusual travel experience was catching a glimpse of the Kumari of Nepal as she peeked through her palace window. The “Living Goddess” is worshipped by Hindus and Buddhists as the reincarnation of the supreme goddess Durga. Hidden away throughout her youth in her own palace, the Kumari Ghar, she rarely sees even her parents. The day I visited the Kumari Ghar, close to Durbar Square, the Kumari appeared in her window — a rare occasion and a sign of good fortune for anyone who sees her.

What I’ve learned about life and travel during the pandemic:  

At the pandemic’s beginning, I was in the United States with my family. Like everyone, I was paralyzed by the unknown. Because I am a French resident, I returned to France before many people were able to travel. I remained pretty much isolated in my apartment in Uzès until I had received two vaccinations. The experience taught me to appreciate Freedom, whether it’s the freedom to travel or to leave my home.

The destination I would go back to in a minute: Misali island off Pemba Island, Zanzibar 

I met this unforgettable person while traveling: SOOOO MANY – Alan Donovan who brought me into the arts of Africa; Jane Spilsbury of Watamu Marine Association

My funniest or most unusual travel experience: The lioness with her cubs in moonlight by my tent. The mother and l stared at each other, a few feet apart, while the cubs played on the porch, with only a net screen between us. Then she gave a stern deep growl “Let’s go kids” – and they vanished into the night. 

What I’ve learned about life and travel during the pandemic: Life continues. You keep going, keep traveling – I was on a local matatu (van) to get to places I wanted to – and you wear your mask.

The destination I would go back to in a minute:  Utah! (Colorado, New Mexico & California…hard to pick just one)

I met this unforgettable person while traveling:  Sherry Ott.  I started following Sherry & her amazing travels online.  We travel so differently—she goes all over the world visiting & staying in exotic places & I tend to stay in the States & camp.   She is also much younger than I am.  But then our paths randomly crossed in Colorado one summer a few years ago & we became fast friends, hiking trails together a few times & last year, I joined her on a trip to Mexico.  She’s a blast to hang out with & I really feel thankful for our friendship.

My most unusual travel experience:  Hiking solo on one of my favorite trails in Colorado one day, I started to pass another hiker when he started up a conversation.  He was much older than I was, looked a bit frail while standing, but turns out was a strong hiker.  He introduced himself as Doug LaFollette from Wisconsin.  He pointed out a trail I’d never been on before that would eventually circle back to my original trailhead & so we began our hike together. He was a non-stop talker, but it was a fascinating & random conversation.  He was there visiting the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory; he comes every year to teach classes & participate in seminars.  But, he was also one of the original founders of Earth Day….that was so cool to hear how that came to be.  He was also a State Senator & then became Secretary of State; & I was getting to hike alongside him on a beautiful trail, surrounded by mountains, hiking through crystal clear streams & listening to an amazing story of this man’s life.  I was smiling at my good fortune the whole time.  I’ll never forget it.

There have been many wonderful people I’ve met while traveling…it’s one of the best things about travel & always a highlight (I call it trip magic!). I love meeting new people & I think solo travel makes it even easier.  I get such enjoyment from discussing all things travel with someone new.  And on the flip side, when travel dominates the conversation, you don’t discuss politics, jobs, religion, etc.  It’s a subject that people can easily find common ground.

What I’ve learned about life and travel during the pandemic:  Those of us who travel a lot know the first thing you pack is flexibility & the pandemic just instilled that even more.  Since my kind of travel is more wilderness oriented & solo, I was able to keep doing what I love as soon as states opened up.

The destination I would go back to in a minute:  I want to go back to Japan. I lived there for a year when I was about 32, and I would love to re-experience it now, as a travel journalist – and very different person.

I met this unforgettable person while traveling:  There are so many! I’ve been travelling a lot over the past 17 years (minus the pandemic). Rather than single out one person, I would say that what I’ve learned is that most people are kind, friendly, and helpful. The world seems kinder when you travel. I’m not sure why that is, but part of it probably has to do with our attitude of openness and adventure. 

My funniest or most unusual travel experience: Getting lost among 10 million people in 44 C. heat at the Kumbh Mela in north India – the world’s largest spiritual gathering. It was one of the most intense days of my life! And most life-changing, too, as I guess all the best rituals must be. You can read the full, harrowing story here.

What I’ve learned about life and travel during the pandemic: Good question, and I’m not sure yet as I still feel deeply in the pandemic situation. I’ve spent the entire pandemic in Rishikesh, India, where I was living to start my custom tour business India for Beginners. Finding it hard to plan, I live day by day, and just try to enjoy each moment and be grateful. I am practicing more gratitude than ever before.

I also find that I am drawn to big journeys now as I get older.  Journeys are more than a vacation seeing sights – they are about getting from point A to B pushing yourself beyond what you think you are capable of, and learning about a culture, destination, and ypurself along the way. Journeys go deep, penetrating your personal limits and they are often about slow, immersive travel and learning from the outdoors.

I’m actually starting one such journey this summer as I start a long-term quest to bike from Capital to Capital in the United States hopefully completing what my father started by foot in 1984. 

The destination I would go back to in a minute: The Faroe Islands. I went a few years ago in April for only 3 days, and it just wet my appetite for more!  The culture is fascinating and quirky, plus it’s a photographer’s dream.  I was there at the end of winter and it was a bit brown and wintery yet, but I want to see it and photograph it in the summer in its green splendor!

I met this unforgettable person while traveling: The first time I went to Alaska I went to the offbeat, lesser-visited places like Nome.  In Nome I met Richard Beneville  – I will never forget him as he really was my ambassador to one of my favorite places in the world – Alaska. Richard Beneville the founder of Nome Discovery Tours was my guide for Nome and the roads that lead to nowhere. Richard, a 70-year-old former Broadway actor, was the most entertaining character in this remote, quirky town. “Thank God for Alaska – it saved my life,” he would say with a hearty smile. He weaves his fascinating and theatrical story about his life; life on Broadway, alcoholism, living above the Arctic Circle, and how he ended up in Nome as you spend the day with him.

Richard become Mayor of Nome at age 70 – he really was the town ‘mascot’ in a way.  I loved the way he was always giving back to the community – and thanks to him I came to love Alaska.   And sadly he passed away in May 2020. But he’ll always be remembered by me and the many people he introduced to Nome and Alaska – he was the best ambassador to Alaska I could ever imagine. 

My funniest or most unusual travel experience: I’ll never forget the moment in Istanbul when I realized that my cute little Airbnb I was staying at for a week was actually a dentist office!  After the initial shock, I learned that it’s normal to have doctor and dentist offices in apartments there (yet I don’t think it was too normal to then rent them out on Airbnb!).  I totally embraced the weirdness of it all, I used the dental chair as a place to sit and do work, I accepted deliveries for the doctor of false teeth, I helped the people in the waiting room practice their English, and I even got my teeth cleaned while I was staying there!

What I’ve learned about life and travel during the pandemic:Regarding life, slowing down and staying put has its benefits.  And on the travel front, I was reminded of what an incredible country America is.  We are lucky to have so much variety of landscapes in our country.  I honestly felt very fulfilled traveling around the US to deserts, lush forests, frozen tundra and beaches. I have a whole new appreciation for my home country.

Now, 15 years later, my son is in college and I’ve just retired, so I have the luxury of time to choose when and where I want to travel, but I’m doing it without my travel buddy. Right now I’m splitting my time between traveling with small groups of women as a Trip Leader for Damesly – I just returned from leading a trip to Jordan – and traveling solo in my converted camper van through North America. I’m also sharing my travels with an audience via social media, and getting into travel writing.  

The destination I would go back to in a minute: Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, and Antarctica

I met this unforgettable person while traveling:  There are many kind and wonderful people on this planet, and one of the gifts of travel is that it crosses our paths with theirs. Travel also brings us closer to ourselves; it expands our comfort zones and shows us more of our own humanity. I like to think that I meet more of myself when I’m traveling.

My funniest or most unusual travel experience:  Seeing the sunset in Antarctica paint massive icebergs with soft deep pinks and fiery oranges while Humpback and Fin whales stretched their flukes like graceful dancers of the deep performing a fluid ballet around our small zodiac boat, penguins popped out from the dark blue surface of the sea, and a pure white albatross soared on the wind just behind us, was a moment of pure joy and peace unlike any I’ve ever experienced. None of us who witnessed this hour on our Earth in its most natural state could speak above a whisper, and many of us had tears streaming down our face. It was an honor to be able to witness this important place, and I was changed by it. More than ever before, I believe it’s vital for us to protect our planet and do whatever is necessary to stop climate change.

 What I’ve learned about life and travel during the pandemic: Researching and preparing for a trip is almost as much fun as going on it. It lets you enjoy the journey before you actually take it. Then, when you’re finally in the places you’ve been seeing photos of and reading about, it will feel a bit like magic: you’ll be walking into a world that up to this point has only resided only in your imagination, and suddenly it will be surrounding you with all its sights, sounds, colors, and realness. You’ll be transported and your trip will have even more meaning and depth. It’s such a fun moment.