Annapurna Base Camp Trek for Regular People: Nepal's Most Rewarding Himalayan Adventure

Dreaming of trekking in the Himalayas without needing to be an elite mountaineer? In this episode of Active Travel Adventures, we explore the unforgettable Annapurna Base Camp Trek — one of the world's most scenic and achievable high-altitude adventures for active travelers over 50 (also known as ABC or Annapurna Sanctuary Trek). If Everest Base Camp feels too crowded, too expensive, or too demanding, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek may be your perfect alternative. You'll walk through charming Gurung villages, terraced rice fields, rhododendron forests, and glacier-carved valleys before standing beneath a breathtaking amphitheater of Himalayan giants, including Annapurna I, Machapuchare (Fish Tail), and Hiunchuli. In this episode, you'll learn exactly what it's like to trek to Annapurna Base Camp, how fit you need to be, the best time to go, what to pack, and why this trek is ideal for mature adventurers who want a real challenge with extraordinary rewards. Whether you're researching your next walking holiday, planning a bucket-list trek, or simply love adventure travel stories, this episode will help you decide if Annapurna Base Camp belongs on your travel list. In This Episode You'll Discover: Why the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the best Himalayan hikes for non-technical trekkers How it compares with Everest Base Camp Trek difficulty, altitude, and daily walking expectations Best months for clear skies and comfortable trekking weather What to pack for Nepal's changing mountain conditions Tea houses, food, guides, and trail logistics Why travelers over 50 often love this trek Why Listen? If you've ever wondered, "Can someone like me really trek in Nepal?" — this episode is for you. We focus on adventures for real people, especially active midlife and older travelers who want meaningful experiences, smart planning, and inspiration to keep exploring. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about today's show. Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here. CONTACT KIT No Tourists Allowed podcast Resources  RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES ******* EMAIL ME FOR PROMO DISCOUNT CODES*****   Subscribe & Explore More Follow Active Travel Adventures for expert travel tips, active vacations, hiking adventures, walking holidays, and unforgettable journeys designed for curious travelers who believe adventure has no age limit. Saily Affordable eSIM Overseas Mobile Phone Plans - No need to insert a physical SIM card when you travel.  Buy just the data you need to avoid expensive roaming charges.  Use Promo Code SPECIAL5 to save 5% Travel Insurance:  Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy!  The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.  High Altitude Travel Insurance: Most insurance policies do NOT cover high altitude adventures.  Check out Rise & Shield for your next mega adventure! Train For Your Adventure  Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have!  You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success.  Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit.  AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount! Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program?  You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks! Tinggly:  Give Gift Experiences instead of stuff (plus your loved one gets to choose)! Promo Code ACTIVETRAVEL saves up up to 20% Amazon Kit's Picks   Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account.  Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:) SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations) Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group Follow ATA on Instagram Follow ATA on Pinterest (C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved  

In this Part II of my Peru adventures, we finish up our adventure travel tour with my affiliate, Active Adventures (exclusive listener promo code  - Email Me to get the code) - good on ANY of Active Adventures epic worldwide tours!), and then my sister Terry and I head off on our own to explore other exciting places in southern Peru and Bolivia, including: Climb up to sacred Humantay Lake Climb Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Dune Buggy and Sand Board in Huacachina Explore the massive Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia Visit Isla del Sol in Copacabana Explore Bolivia's capital, La Paz and the Witches Market Visit the Uru reed islands of Lake Titicaca Have a fun Homestay in Amatani Island Check out the condors in Colca Canyon Visit the 'Poor man's Galapagos' in Paracas Do a wine tasting at a Pisca vineyard Explore the beautiful "White City" of Arequipas COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about today's show. Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here. CONTACT KIT Resources  RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES ******* EMAIL ME FOR PROMO DISCOUNT CODES***** Saily Affordable eSIM Overseas Mobile Phone Plans - No need to insert a physical SIM card when you travel.  Buy just the data you need to avoid expensive roaming charges.  Use Promo Code SPECIAL5 to save 5% Travel Insurance:  Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy!  The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.  High Altitude Travel Insurance: Most insurance policies do NOT cover high altitude adventures.  Check out Rise & Shield for your next mega adventure! Train For Your Adventure  Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have!  You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success.  Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit.  AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount! Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program?  You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks! Tinggly:  Give Gift Experiences instead of stuff (plus your loved one gets to choose)! Promo Code ACTIVETRAVEL saves up up to 20% Amazon Kit's Picks   Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account.  Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:) SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations) Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group Follow ATA on Instagram Follow ATA on Pinterest (C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved  

Trek Machu Picchu Inca Trail plus Hike and Bike the Sacred Valley of Peru Join Kit as she describes her hiking adventure with her sister Terry.  On this first part of their month long Peruvian and Bolivian adventure, they tackle a Bucket List adventure:  trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.  They also hike and bike the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and visit markets and learn about Peruvian culture. Learn all about this beautiful and exciting active adventure on today's show. SAVE!!!  Kit went with her affiliate, Active Adventures.  Email me for an exclusive Promo Code good for this or any of Active's exciting adventure travel tours! COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about trekking to Machu Pichu and exploring the Amazon rainforest. Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here. CONTACT KIT Resources  Promo Codes and Recommended Tour Companies Travel Insurance:  Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program?  You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks! Amazon Kit's Picks   Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account.  Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:) SUBSCRIBE to the Adventure Travel Show (the "How to's of adventure travel) SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations) Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group Follow ATA on Twitter Follow ATA on Instagram Follow ATA on Pinterest

What is it really like to cycle Vietnam? In this episode of the Active Travel Adventures Podcast, I'm joined by Jeff and Ed, two experienced cyclists who share their firsthand experience riding a 13-day Vietnam guided cycling tour from Saigon to Hue. This is not your typical bike trip. Their route took them far beyond the tourist trail — through the Central Highlands, rural farming communities, coastal fishing villages, and historic cities — all on a mix of gravel roads and quiet backcountry routes with their skilled guide and a support van. Along the way, they experienced: authentic interactions with local farmers and schoolchildren ever-changing scenery from mountains to coastline long, exhilarating descents from the highlands incredible Vietnamese food and beachfront accommodations They also share what surprised them most about cycling Vietnam, what made this trip different from Europe, and what you should know before choosing a cycling tour here. ⚠️ This particular route is moderate to challenging, but don't let that intimidate you. There are many Vietnam cycling tours available through my affiliate partner, Art of Bicycle Trips including (email me for the current discount Promo Code here): easier rides shorter distances cultural-focused itineraries e-bike friendly options (including this tour!) So whether you're an experienced cyclist or just getting started, there's likely a Vietnam bike tour that's right for you. 👉 Want to explore this tour or find one that fits your level? Visit: ActiveTravelAdventures.com In This Episode, You'll Learn: What it's like to cycle from Saigon to Hue Why Vietnam is one of the best countries in Asia for cycling The biggest challenges (and surprises) of this tour How guided cycling tours work in Vietnam Tips for choosing the right cycling tour for your ability Why Listen? If you've ever dreamed of combining adventure travel, cultural immersion, and active exploration, this episode will give you a real insider look at one of the most unique cycling experiences in the world. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about today's show. Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here. CONTACT KIT Resources  RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES ******* EMAIL ME FOR PROMO DISCOUNT CODES***** Saily Affordable eSIM Overseas Mobile Phone Plans - No need to insert a physical SIM card when you travel.  Buy just the data you need to avoid expensive roaming charges.  Use Promo Code SPECIAL5 to save 5% Travel Insurance:  Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy!  The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.  High Altitude Travel Insurance: Most insurance policies do NOT cover high altitude adventures.  Check out Rise & Shield for your next mega adventure! Train For Your Adventure  Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have!  You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success.  Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit.  AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount! Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program?  You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks! Tinggly:  Give Gift Experiences instead of stuff (plus your loved one gets to choose)! Promo Code ACTIVETRAVEL saves up up to 20% Amazon Kit's Picks   Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account.  Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:) SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations) Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group Follow ATA on Instagram Follow ATA on Pinterest (C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved  

Explore Croatia's stunning Dalmatian coast by hiking, biking and paddling!  Start from Split and work your way to Dubrovnik on this exciting and fun adventure. We discuss all of the fun activities our guest Lesley did on her Active Adventures tour, the great food and wine and wonderful accommodations. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about today's show. Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here. CONTACT KIT Resources  RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES ******* EMAIL ME FOR PROMO DISCOUNT CODES***** Saily Affordable eSIM Overseas Mobile Phone Plans - No need to insert a physical SIM card when you travel.  Buy just the data you need to avoid expensive roaming charges.  Use Promo Code SPECIAL5 to save 5% Travel Insurance:  Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy!  The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.  High Altitude Travel Insurance: Most insurance policies do NOT cover high altitude adventures.  Check out Rise & Shield for your next mega adventure! Train For Your Adventure  Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have!  You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success.  Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit.  AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount! Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program?  You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks! Tinggly:  Give Gift Experiences instead of stuff (plus your loved one gets to choose)! Promo Code ACTIVETRAVEL saves up up to 20% Amazon Kit's Picks   Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account.  Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:) SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations) Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group Follow ATA on Instagram Follow ATA on Pinterest (C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved

What's it really like to cycle from Amsterdam to Bruges — and sleep in your luxury floating hotel along the way? In this episode, we dive into the unforgettable Amsterdam to Bruges bike and barge tour, one of Europe's most relaxing active adventures. Pedal flat scenic routes through the Netherlands and Belgium, cruise past windmills and riverside villages, and explore iconic cities like Amsterdam, Ghent, and Bruges — all while unpacking just once. We cover the daily mileage, difficulty level, what life aboard the barge is really like, and who this tour is perfect for (hint: you definitely don't have to be a hardcore cyclist - it's FLAT!!!).   If you love active travel with comfort, culture, and incredible scenery — this one's for you.  And if you've been trying to get your partner to join you on an adventure, this is the PERFECT vacation that allows for differing physical abilities and desires - just like with our guest today! Press play and let's ride through Holland and Belgium. 🚲🛥️ You'll discover: What it's really like to live aboard a bike and barge How difficult (or easy!) the cycling actually is Who this tour is perfect for — and who might want an e-bike The highlights of riding through Amsterdam, Antwerp, Ghent, and the fairytale canals of Bruges Why boat and bike tours are one of the best ways to experience Europe If you love active travel but prefer comfort over camping… if you enjoy cultural immersion without exhausting logistics… and if the idea of pedaling flat scenic paths through Holland and Belgium sounds like your kind of adventure — this episode is for you. By the end, you may just find yourself planning your own Amsterdam to Bruges bike & barge adventure. Take advantage of an exclusive Active Travel Adventures BoatBikeTours.com discount - email me for the current Boat Bike Tours promo code! COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your European adventure, photos plus more cool info about today's show. Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (plus each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here. CONTACT KIT Resources  RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES ******* EMAIL ME FOR PROMO DISCOUNT CODES***** Travel Insurance:  Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy!  The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.  Saily Affordable eSIM Overseas Mobile Phone Plans - No need to insert a physical SIM card when you travel.  Buy just the data you need to avoid expensive roaming charges.  Use Promo Code SPECIAL5 to save 5% High Altitude Travel Insurance: Most insurance policies do NOT cover high altitude adventures.  Check out Rise & Shield for your next mega adventure! Train For Your Adventure  Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have!  You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success.  Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit.  AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount! Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program?  You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks! Tinggly:  Give Gift Experiences instead of stuff (plus your loved one gets to choose)! Promo Code ACTIVETRAVEL saves up up to 20% Amazon Kit's Picks   Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account.  Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:) SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations) Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group Follow ATA on Instagram Follow ATA on Pinterest (C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved  

Solo Travel Tips and Advice Many of us are afraid to travel solo.  On today's show we delve in to how to travel solo safely, plus the pros and cons of solo travel.  I interview three expert solo travelers to get their best advice and encourangement.  Visit the website to delve deeper into the pros and cons of traveling solo safely. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about today's show. Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here. CONTACT KIT Resources  RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES ******* EMAIL ME FOR PROMO DISCOUNT CODES***** Saily Affordable eSIM Overseas Mobile Phone Plans - No need to insert a physical SIM card when you travel.  Buy just the data you need to avoid expensive roaming charges.  Use Promo Code SPECIAL5 to save 5% Travel Insurance:  Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy!  The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.  High Altitude Travel Insurance Most insurance policies do NOT cover high altitude adventures.  Check out Rise & Shield for your next mega adventure! Train For Your Adventure  Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have!  You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success.  Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit.  AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount! Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program?  You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks! Tinggly:  Give Gift Experiences instead of stuff (plus your loved one gets to choose)! Promo Code ACTIVETRAVEL saves up up to 20% Amazon Kit's Picks   Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account.  Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:) SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations) Episodes Mentioned in this Show: Galapagos Dolomites Kilimanjaro Part I Kilimanjaro Part II Machu Picchu Annapurna Travel Safety Tips Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group Follow ATA on Instagram Follow ATA on Pinterest Solo Adventure Travel Transcript We're going solo. That's right. Even if you have a partner, I want you to read this blog post because there are definite advantages and challenges to traveling solo. Even if you think, "There is no way I would ever travel solo, " please read on with an open mind. You might change your mind. I'll be interviewing three solo travelers about the challenges and joys of traveling solo. Since I usually travel solo myself, you'll hear my two cents' worth as well. It's a great show. Even if you think, "No way, I could never travel solo, " I beg you, please read on and see if you don't change your mind. If you're like me, you don't want to live an ordinary life. You want to live a kick-ass life, and one way to do so is to add adventure travel to your life. I find adventure travel brings out the best in me. It challenges me, it encourages me, it enlightens me, and it inspires me to lead a bigger life. On this program, you'll learn about amazing adventures from around the world plus get the tools and information you need so you can do these adventures with confidence. You'll come home feeling empowered and with amazing memories and stories you can relive forever. Don't worry—the bar is such that my relatively fit 58-year-old body, particularly with some training, can do these adventures, and you can too. This episode is a roundup episode. I've got three guests that I will be interviewing separately about their experiences with solo travel. Our first guest is Jackie Norris, who we met on one of our episodes. She is the host of Traveling Jackie and The Budget-Minded Traveler and has been traveling solo for a long time. She has a ton of insights to share with us. When I interviewed her in Quebec, I asked her casually about solo travel. We got so engrossed in it that I decided to take that section of our interview and add it to this solo episode. Our other guests are Monica and Jason. I'll let them introduce themselves. Let's start with my interview with Jackie. Jackie Norris Interview Kit: Jackie, why do you travel solo? Jackie: The reason I do solo travel is that I'm solo. I don't let that stop me. For years and years, a lot of people struggle with the idea of getting out on their own. It's a necessity for me. It's what I have to do, and so I do it. I never thought I would enjoy it, but I do love it now. You have to get to a point where you're comfortable with it. I'd already been traveling for a number of years by the time I went fully solo nomadic a few years ago. Even after that much time of being comfortable traveling, it was weird to be on my own all the time.For the cons, you are by yourself. All of those travel decisions are made only by you. Even where you're going to eat for breakfast or whether you're going to get a beer in the afternoon—everything is solely up to you. There's no one you can confer with. That also happens to be one of the advantages. Sometimes it depends on which perspective you have. Maybe it depends on the day. Sometimes it's amazing, and sometimes you wish there was someone there. Loneliness is a real thing. I have written about that before, and most solo travelers will face real loneliness. It's not just the point of being solo in a place—it's feeling alone. There's a big difference, and that can get to you if it lasts a while. I traveled for months at a time, and it can get draining to be alone. At the same time, this is where I am in my life, and this is what I'm signing up for. This is also my work, and this is what I'm choosing to do. It's part of the territory if you look at it that way. The freedom that solo travel provides is unmatched. There is a feeling that comes with being on your own in some far-flung corner of the planet, completely left to yourself and your own thoughts. What you want to do for the day—everything is your will. It is the most freeing feeling ever. It's incredible. You can do whatever you want. There are definitely pros and cons of solo travel. I always encourage people to at least try it out because you get to know yourself very quickly. Even if you think you know yourself, you don't—not until you solo travel. You see what you're capable of and what your weaknesses are. It's an incredible tool for life to solo travel. Everyone should do it at least once. Kit: You had a quote in The Budget-Minded Traveler episode number 63 that I loved: "Lose yourself until you find yourself. " Could you talk a little bit about that? Jackie: It gave me chills when you read it. That came from a piece that I wrote on my Traveling Jackie blog. It was when I decided to leave everything behind and go out on my own to travel the world solo for real for the first time. This was many years after having traveled a whole bunch already and studying abroad and all that. This was different because I had a relationship, I had a house, and I had all these things. I felt very lost at times because I had to recreate what my life looked like. That was my moment to decide what my new normal was going to be going forward. I did lose part of myself there in a good way though. It's like you have to go see what the world has for you and then figure out what you look like in that new normal. Figure out what the path forward is in this new reality that you've created. That's at least how it applied to me. It depends on what your situation is and why you're choosing to solo travel. So much about experience outwardly when you travel has to do with what's going on inside. That was my experience at the time. I totally went out and lost myself until I started to rebuild and find what it meant to start over. Kit: It's obvious that travel in general and solo travel in particular changed your life.Jackie: I'm grateful for that because I feel so much surer of who I am. I'm so much stronger now. I have so much more confidence. These are the things that come with being on your own for so long in a place. It's not being on your own at home where you're comfortable and you know the name of the store owner down the street. Everything is different—foreign languages, foreign currency, borders, flights, hotels. Everything is a challenge. When you add that element to being completely on your own for a long time, maybe for the first time, it changes everything. Your personal growth is expedited more than anything. "The world outside of your comfort zone is not a place to invite fear. It's a place to invite curiosity. " Kit: Since I lost my husband, I've been traveling solo. The question I get over and over again is about safety. How do you deal with safety concerns? Jackie: Are you not afraid of those things at home? Bad things can happen anywhere. It doesn't matter where you are. In fact, the U.S. these days could be less safe than a lot of other places I travel. I don't dwell on that stuff. I have some tricks up my sleeve to make sure I'm safe and my belongings are safe. I pay attention. Common sense is your best defense. Don't leave your common sense behind when you walk out the door. Go explore the world outside your comfort zone. It's not about fear and safety—it's about adventure, life, growth, people, connection, culture, food, language, activity, and beauty. That outweighs the fear. Monica Aranguren Interview Kit: Can you introduce yourself and tell us your age? Monica: I'm Monica Aranguren, and I am 58 years old. Kit: How did you get into adventure travel? Monica: Quite honestly, I found myself single again around 2007 or 2008. I started hiking on my own. When I turned 50, I decided I wanted to do something bigger and planned a trip to New Zealand. Kit: Was that your first adventure trip? Monica: Yes. I didn't want to leave adventure behind. Kit: How did you make the mindset shift to go on your own?Monica: so I went. I've been independent all my life. I wasn't waiting for life to happen to me. I wanted to see these places, Kit: Did you go solo or with a company? Monica: The New Zealand trip was with Active Adventures. I've made many trips like that since. Solo travel lets you expand a little bit more in getting out of the box. You meet people you wouldn't meet otherwise. I don't really see many cons—except I always choose a single room so I can sleep! I've always felt safe. On guided trips, you're surrounded by your group. On self-guided trips, I had GPS, instructions, and 24-hour support. I always felt supported. Loneliness happens occasionally, especially on self-guided hikes, but overall it hasn't been an issue. It empowers me. When I get back, I think, "I did that. " That confidence carries into real life. Jason Waitkins Interview Kit: Can you introduce yourself? Jason: My name is Jason Waitkins, and I am 37. Kit: How did you get into adventure travel? Jason: My first trip was in 2003 to New Zealand. I wanted to hike. That was the driver. I grew up next to the Appalachian Trail and hiked sections near my home in the Hudson Valley. Solo travel is easier to coordinate. I go when I want. If no one else wants to go, I go anyway. Safety is always a consideration. I research countries, crime, and logistics. Awareness is key. I use common sense, just like I would anywhere else. I once got injured hiking solo in Acadia National Park and had to be carried out. That experience reinforced the value of group travel for certain adventures. Using tour companies removes logistical stress and adds safety. Solo travel hasn't dramatically changed who I am, but it keeps me going. I want to keep visiting places and hiking everywhere I can. Final Thoughts and Solo Travel RulesWhen I travel solo, I make rules for myself: ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● I know where I'm staying by noon I arrive before dark I watch my food and drink I'm cautious of overly friendly strangers I use official taxis or rideshare services I trust my instincts I always have an exit plan Someone knows where I'm going If you're not sure solo travel is for you, try a weekend trip. Then try a week. Build confidence gradually. In all my travels, I've never had a serious incident. You heard the same from our guests. If you want to help shape future adventures, reach out to me by email or on social media. Until next time, this is Kit Parks—adventure on. (C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved

Make your travel life smoother with these great (mostly free) travel apps.   On today's show, you'll learn about the best recommended travel apps for planning, to save money, transportation, lodging, food and activities, getting around, security, translation, plus some solid travel tips from the world travelers on my recent Bhutan adventure as well as highly rated travel apps from other hard core travelers. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See a list of all the apps mentioned on today's show. Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here. CONTACT KIT Resources  RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES ******* EMAIL ME FOR PROMO DISCOUNT CODES***** Saily Affordable eSIM Overseas Mobile Phone Plans - No need to insert a physical SIM card when you travel.  Buy just the data you need to avoid expensive roaming charges.  Use Promo Code SPECIAL5 to save 5% Travel Insurance:  Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy!  The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.  High Altitude Travel Insurance: Most insurance policies do NOT cover high altitude adventures.  Check out Rise & Shield for your next mega adventure! Train For Your Adventure  Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have!  You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success.  Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit.  AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount! Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program?  You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks! Tinggly:  Give Gift Experiences instead of stuff - plus your loved one gets to choose! Promo Code ACTIVETRAVEL saves up up to 20% Amazon Kit's Picks   Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account.  Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:) SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations) Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group Follow ATA on Instagram Follow ATA on Pinterest (C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved  

I hiked to Everest Base Camp in Nepal to commemorate my 65th birthday.  In Part II of this two part series, I cover more of the actual trekking experience.  You can download Part I here to learn more about training, preparation for EBC, packing, and what to expect and more. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your EBC adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about today's show. Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here. CONTACT KIT Resources  RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES ******* EMAIL ME FOR PROMO DISCOUNT CODES***** Saily Affordable eSIM Overseas Mobile Phone Plans - No need to insert a physical SIM card when you travel.  Buy just the data you need to avoid expensive roaming charges.  Use Promo Code SPECIAL5 to save 5% Travel Insurance:  Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy!  The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.  High Altitude Travel Insurance: Most insurance policies do NOT cover high altitude adventures.  Check out Rise & Shield for your next mega adventure! Train For Your Adventure  Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have!  You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success.  Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit.  AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount! Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program?  You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks! Amazon Kit's Picks   Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account.  Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:) SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations) Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group Follow ATA on Instagram   (C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved  

I hiked to Everest Base Camp to commemorate my 65th birthday.  In Part I of this two part series, I cover how I prepared and trained, what I packed and what I carried with me in my Day Pack, Lukla flight tips, tea houses (that's where you sleep along the EBC trail), porters, guides a bit about Kathmandu and more.  Part II covers more of the actual trek experience.  You can download it here. COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links for planning your EBC adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about today's show. Get FREE Travel Planners, Checklists and Packing Lists for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here. CONTACT KIT Resources  RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES ******* EMAIL ME FOR PROMO DISCOUNT CODES***** Saily Affordable eSIM Overseas Mobile Phone Plans - No need to insert a physical SIM card when you travel.  Buy just the data you need to avoid expensive roaming charges.  Use Promo Code SPECIAL5 to save 5% Travel Insurance:  Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy!  The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.  High Altitude Travel Insurance: Most insurance policies do NOT cover high altitude adventures.  Check out Rise & Shield for your next mega adventure! Train For Your Adventure  Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have!  You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success.  Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit.  AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount! Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program?  You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks! Amazon Kit's Picks   Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account.  Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:) SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations) Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group Follow ATA on Instagram Follow ATA on Pinterest (C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved