Snazzy Snaps & Travel Tales
Welcome to my travel blog! I've visited 30 countries (kickstarted by Remote Year) and 38 U.S. States. Click SUBSCRIBE to receive an email when a new post is published.
My Remote Year Marathon
12 months, 19 countries. A year of new experiences and constant stimulation. A year that can never be replicated, and never fully comprehended by anyone outside of RY3 . A year that probably seemed so luxurious on social media. But, in reality, it was just as challenging as it was rewarding. Like running a marathon.
12 months, 19 countries. A year of new experiences and constant stimulation. A year that could never be replicated, and never fully comprehended by anyone outside of RY3 . A year that probably seemed so luxurious on social media. But, in reality, it was just as challenging as it was rewarding. Like running a marathon.
It's been 2 weeks since I completed Remote Year and you may have noticed the radio silence on my part. The reality is, I'm recovering from the marathon!
Our first week in Remote Year, Carlos Paz, Cordoba, Argentina
In our very first meeting in Cordoba, Argentina, the staff played a video for us. It was an advice compilation from the original RY group that was in month 9 of 12. One of the older guys in the group said,
“RY is like a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself, because a year of travel and work is really challenging.”
Being a marathoner, I took these words to heart. In the beginning of the race, I know I always feel like this:
The adrenaline is flowing and I'm so excited the race is finally here!
But, I know that the mid to late miles are tough. The initial adrenaline wears off. Fatigue sets in. I get numb. And the last few miles I'm on auto-pilot, emotionally and physically. I sometimes can't remember a lot in those late miles, because my body is in this weird state of confusion. I'm just going through the motions, and everything is a blur.
And, when I get to the finish line, I'm often not able to savor the moment. I'm just numb. I may have an emotional moment for a minute, realizing that I just completed a big race that I'd been training so hard for. But, then, it takes me a couple hours to get some feeling back.
On my Remote Year marathon, I didn’t quite realize how tough the late months would be!
It wasn't tough to visit gorgeous National Parks, UNESCO sites, and Wonders of the World. It wasn't tough to adapt to the local culture or find my way around a new city. It was not hard to get along with such a great group of people who cared for each other and treated each other like family.
But, the combination of: constant travel, sightseeing, work, time zone challenges, lack of sleep, blogging, photography, the high of forging new friendships, the lows of saying goodbye and start all over, etc, etc. It's all amazing but exhausting!
The last few months of RY were challenging. I constantly felt fatigued. Got sick a bunch of times. Wasn't sleeping much. Was pushing my mind and body to the limits, trying to see all the sights. In a lot of ways I was just going through the motions. Checkin' stuff off the list.
Oh, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Neat.
A Wonder of the World...huh. Cool.
Most people plan their whole year's vacation around some of the things that I probably took for granted. I got emotionally numb in the late miles.
And, towards the end, I just wanted to hit that finish line.
Final day of Remote Year, just finished packing up my stuff.
But, now, I'm getting my feeling back. :]
Looking back, I realize just how lucky I am to have been able to be a part of Remote Year. So few people on this Earth will ever have the opportunities that I've had. It was the most extraordinary journey I've ever taken. The best race I've ever run.
And, the best part about it is, I'm not numb any more! And, while I may have been fairly unemotional during certain times, I still experienced it all. And, I can look back on those experiences now and fully appreciate them. And, I've got thousands of photos and videos that I haven't even looked at.
In a marathon, sometimes I forget the mid-to-late miles.
But I will never forget one mile, one day or one month of Remote Year.
Patrick and I on day 1 of 365. We were just babies back then.
Fuerza Bruta show, Buenos Aires, Argentina---one of the best nights of the year.
Wandering the streets of La Paz, Bolivia
Climbing Mount Huayna Potosi, one of the gnarliest, craziest things I've ever done!
Cusco culture, they love their little lambs and llama and alpaca.
The train to Edinburgh, Scotland
My romantic weekend in Paris
A phenomenal weekend in the Czech countryside to hike and watch the Perseids meteor shower.
A solo trip to Santorini, Greece, and some gorgeous beaches.
The slow boat in Laos with the Golden Shower Trio!
Admiring the Kuang Si Waterfalls in Laos
Sure, I'll buy a straw hat for $1 in Myanmar
The sweet hotel owner and her daughters in Inle Lake, Myanmar
Zaw Min! The best driver / tour guide of the year, hands down. Loved this man.
Inle Lake!
Jumped on the mic on the cruise in Halong Bay!
HA LONG BAY
Vietnam Mekong Delta cruise.
Vietnam welcome party spilled into the streets for the Tet New Year!
My final memory of Remote Year. A candlelight speakeasy. Magical.
Chiling Falls with Mr Baby
MEMORY MONDAY - One of my favorite days on RY was the Chiling Waterfalls in Malaysia. We took buses ~1.5 hours outside of Kuala Lumpur and I was lucky enough to sit in front with our driver: 'Mr Baby'.
MEMORY MONDAY - One of my favorite days on Remote Year was the Chiling Waterfalls day trip in Malaysia. We took buses ~an hour and a half outside of Kuala Lumpur and I was lucky enough to sit in the front seat with our driver: 'Mr. Baby'.
I have no idea what his real name was, because he introduced himself to us as Mr Baby. He said all his friends call him that because he has 10 babies.
Mr. Baby lives in a village outside of Kuala Lumpur near a gorgeous area called Perhentian. He said it was common in their village for men to have ~20-25 children! But, "Mr Baby only 10 children. And, only 1 wife, because Mr. Baby is good man." He was quite proud of the fact that while his religion said that he COULD have 4 wives, he only has 1 wife and loves her very much.
Mr. Baby made my day! He is a solid driver, not shy of steppin' on it. And he doesn't like it when other drivers are slow. "See, this driver is sleeping. Mr. Baby don't like this."
And, he thinks "Indian drivers are the worst". Not sure if he realized Abe was in the back seat, but not sure he really cared anyways. He didn't say it mean spirited, just matter of fact like.
The Chiling Falls are located near Selangor Lake, which is a really beautiful cool blue.
We had to trek through the jungle ~1 hour to get to the falls. It was SWELTERING HOT. I was sweating the second we got out of the air conditioned Mr. Baby-mobile. Welcome to Malaysia!
One thing I've learned on Remote Year---I love the jungle / rainforest. I love the outdoors in general, but the jungle has a bit more vibrance than the typical green forests I'm used to. The sounds of crickets and insects are constant. And, there is just a buzzzzzzzz that you can't describe unless you're in it.
In order to get to the Falls, you have to cross the river 4-5 times. Wading through the river was so fun! The main reason is because it was SO HOT and the river was so refreshingly COOOOOOL.
But also, it added a bit of extreme danger to the trek. I had my good camera with me, and one slip would be fatal (to the camera).
I love adventure!
When we finally got to the falls, I was so excited to see that we could swim in them! It was a great reward for the sweltering trek. The water was so cold and refreshing!
When you get into the water you realize you are swimming with MANY fish, and YES, they do nibble at your feet n legs a bit!
And, we could jump off the rocks!
Some of us were a little afraid of takin' that leap, like Heather. :]
But, I was in it to win it! Here's my plunge with the GoPro in hand.
We could even swim UNDER the falls! I will say, being inside a waterfall is not very fun. It's like being in a washing machine or a tropical storm. It takes your breath away and feels a little dangerous. But, our fearless leader TRAVIS is the waterfall KING!
Couple groups shots:
And then we had to trek back.
I think these are termites, not ants.
We made it back!
Thankfully, Mr. Baby stopped at Selangor Lake on the way back and let us snap a few shots of the lake, which was stunning.
Jungle + Waterfalls + Adventure + Camaraderie + Mr. Baby = 1 of my favorite days on RY!
Sunset Hill, Riegrovy Sady Park: Prague
Prague likes to party! Inside, or out, there are plenty of places to congregate with the community and enjoy the summertime vibes. One of the best places to watch the sunset over the iconic Prague Castle was right near my apartment: Riegrovy Sady Park, aka Sunset Hill.
Prague likes to party! Inside, or out, there are plenty of places to congregate with the community and enjoy the summertime vibes. One of the best places to watch the sunset over the iconic Prague Castle was right near my apartment: Riegrovy Sady Park, aka Sunset Hill.
It’s a big park, with several beer gardens. (FYI, open container alcohol is legal in Prague) Every afternoon and evening, people would gather on the hill for sunset picnics.
It’s a little touristy, but there are plenty of locals mixed in. Great vibes, and gorgeous views!
Check out the scene:
We went one night for Derryl Carter's birthday.
Just a couple of us, Leah, Derryl and I, but it was super chill!
I took a ton of snaps of the sunset behind the Prague Castle, and it was amazing to see how the colors changed over the course of golden hour.
Sunset Hill was perfect. Prague is utopian in many ways!
Skydiving Klatovy, Czech Republic
First time I leapt from a moving plane was in 2004, for cousin Rebecca’s birthday. We had a huge crew and it was one of the best days of my life! When I found out Remote Jacek was a licensed skydiver, I knew dive number 2 was somewhere in my future. Monday, 10 of us ridiculous Remotes drove out to Klatovy to get out kicks flying through the air.
Jacek, Signe, Kelly, Travis, Miranda, Samantha, Eric, Paige, Brecht, Adam and I!
First time I leapt from a moving plane was in 2002, for cousin Rebecca’s birthday. We had a huge crew and it was one of the best days of my life!
2004, Perris Valley, California
When I found out Remote Jacek was a licensed skydiver, I knew dive number 2 was somewhere in my future. Monday, 10 of us ridiculous Remotes drove out to Klatovy to get out kicks flying through the air.
Jacek in his element!
He normally smiles a lot, but I think he is just too overwhelmed with happiness to smile here!
Jacek leading the group in a slow mo Top Gun style walk.
On the first dive, the airplane exit was on the side of the plane, and I dropped out sideways. In Klatovy, their planes have a rear door. You have to walk to the edge and look out below you. This was waaaay cooler than the side drop, and an incredible way to start the jump!
Interestingly, I was not really scared, or even that excited about the jump. It was weird. Maybe because I’ve got 2 paraglide flights under my belt, I was a bit more comfortable? Or, the fact that my tandem dive guy had jumped over 15,000 times?
Don’t get me wrong--it was AWESOME and I loved it. But, I miss the stomach butterflies that were flying around for my first time!
Guess I’ll just have to do a solo jump next time!
4 of us were on the first plane -- Kelly, Signe, Brecht and I after the jump!
Here are some pics. First, Travis, our Remote Year Community Manager...
Next, Samantha...our Remote Year Operations Manager...
Travis and Samantha embracing! We sometimes call them Tramantha. Here, they are definitely one entity: Tramantha.
The Tramantha embrace got them all tangled up!
Eric and Adam got to wear cool diving suits! I just jumped in my plain clothes. At least I got goggles though.
Paige coming in hot!
Paige and Adam are on cloud 9 after their landings!
Probably the best shot I got --- Eric landing right near us.
If you've never tried skydiving, I highly recommend it! It is so beautiful to see the country from so high up. It's incredible to be able to fly through the clouds. And, flying through the air is an indescribable feeling.
The Sloandog Millionaire Two Peaks Challenge for Remotes that Want to Hike Good (and Do Other Things Good, Too)
The weekend was originally supposed to be the Three Peaks Challenge: hike the 3 tallest peaks in the UK in 24 hours. Snowdon (Wales); Scafell Pike (England); & Ben Nevis (Scotland). DJ Jeff Sloan was the organizer but due to last minute logistics, we ran the option play, and were presented with The Sloandog Millionaire Two Peaks Challenge for Remotes that Want to Hike Good (and Do Other Things Good, Too).
A brook in Scafell Pike, England
The weekend was originally supposed to be the Three Peaks Challenge: hike the 3 tallest peaks in the UK in 24 hours. Snowdon in Wales; Scafell Pike in England; and Ben Nevis in Scotland. DJ Jeff Sloan was the organizer but due to last minute logistics, we ran the option play and were presented with The Sloandog Millionaire Two Peaks Challenge for Remotes that Want to Hike Good (and Do Other Things Good, Too).
Two for three ain't bad!
The Sloandog Millionaire, really strong beard game
or some reason, I/we did not research hiking climate conditions in the UK in July. I think we were just overly exuberant to go on an excursion.
The Challenge Competitors: L to R: Kelly, Jeff, Paige, JP (Bottom), Me, Miranda & Johnson
IMPORTANT NOTE: Just because it is warm in London, does not mean it will be warm in the mountains.
Too much rain, so I could not take photos with my good camera. It's a shame, because Wales is gorgeous!
One exciting thing is that I got to drive on the opposite side of the car / road! This was scary. And exciting. And weird. I hit 5 curbs in about 4.5 hours of driving. The roads in Wales are super narrow, and the curbs are not steep...they were more like speed bumps. LOL
I didn't feel so bad, because Miranda hit 4 curbs and Sloandog hit ~4 in much less driving time. My curb to drive time ratio was actually pretty solid comparatively.
We drove down to Wales to hike their highest peak (Snowdon, aka Snowdonia) and the weather was so fierce that the staff could not make their way up to the peak to man the shack. That’s how crazy the rain, wind, sleet and freezing cold weather was. It was like a white out on a ski slope. I did not prepare for said elements. I thought we’d be hiking in warm weather. Rookie mistake. Moronic. Paid for it.
Us preparing for the hike. Are we really going to do this!?
I was completely soaking wet within 10 minutes of hiking. But, I powered through, because I’m a champ and, it's The Sloandog Millionaire Two Peaks Challenge for Remotes that Want to Hike Good (and Do Other Things Good, Too).
Paige, trying not to get blown over by the fierce winds.
When we got to the peak, we saw two Brits dressed in proper cold weather hiking attire. One said to us, "It's Wales in July, what did you expect?" Well, Mr. Smarty Pants. I've never been to Wales in July, so I guess I did not know what to expect.
No, it's my bad for not doing research. I own it.
Paige and I approaching the peak, up to the right.
The peak!
Yup, that's what I was wearing. At least I had a cold weather Patagonia long sleeve underneath.
Still having a blast, level 3 fun!
After drying off, and a nice warm meal in Wales, we headed north up to Scafell Pike, in Keswick, England. On the way up, we saw some gorgeous views of the countryside and the best rainbow I've ever seen, outside of Iguazu Falls.
We got some rest at a hotel in Morecambe Bay, England, just outside of Lancaster. It's a coastal town, and looks very New England-y...but I guess that's a weird thing to say, since it is definitively Old England-y.
The hotel did not have dryers for us to deal with our soaking clothes. We tried 3 or 4 hotels and we almooost got one hotel owner to bite. Until he saw that we had 7 peoples' clothes to dry and he angrily bailed with the quickness.
The next day, at Scafell Pike, our clothes were still pretty damp and cold, but our spirits were warm and fuzzy! The Sloandog Millionaire Two Peaks Challenge for Remotes that Want to Hike Good (and Do Other Things Good, Too) was in reach and we intended to finish it.
The weather at Scafell Pike was less fierce, but still fierce. There was much less rain than Snowdon, thankfully! But, winds were WHIPPING.
Whipping so hard that my poncho only lasted about 1 hour before it got ripped off my body. Mother nature was laughing at us again!
Me in the red / pink poncho.
We hiked up for ~3 hours, and almoooost made it to the peak. We easily could have summited, but timing was not on our side. We had to get back to England at a reasonable hour, and turned back an hour from the top.
It did not matter, because the hike was GORGEOUS. A lot of the fog cleared on the way back down.
This weekend classified as Level 3 Fun. Level 1 fun is the normal things you do in life, and you don't even think about them. Going to the movies. Seeing a show. Playing games.
Level 2 fun is planned fun. Going on a trip, and doing extraordinary things that you don't often do. Rare moments. Great memories.
Level 3 fun is when the unexpected happens! Like when you go on a hiking trip, and you're totally unprepared for the elements...but you embrace the ridiculous experience! This weekend was totally Level 3. None of us knew how nuts the road trip would get and how crazy the weather would be. But it all makes for an awesome story and unforgettable memories.
When we got back to the rental car place, my group surprised me with a birthday card. I was stunned, and feeling all sorts of good vibes. Definitely did not expect it!
They called me "Dad" because I was the oldest in the group and I was the first driver to start the trip!
What a phenomenal group of travel mates. We had so many laughs and so many good times! It was the first time I had traveled with a bunch of them, and it’s refreshing to get to know people in the group that I had previously not known well. Much love to the Challenge Competitors!
Weekend 1 was wondrous.
Weekend 2, is PARIS. Leaving on a train in a little bit...
London Week 1 Recap
After 4 months in South America, we arrived in London last Sunday for 4 months in Europe. It’s my first time in the UK and I love it! I’m a Sherwood & I feel at home with my people. And, Brexit or not, clouds or not, there’s incredible vibrant energy in this city.
London Landmark Twofer - The London Eye and Big Ben
After 4 months in South America, we arrived in London last Sunday for 4 months in Europe. It’s my first time in the UK and I love it! I’m a Sherwood & I feel at home with my people. And, Brexit or not, clouds or not, there’s incredible vibrant energy in this city.
Our first day in town was the Fourth of July and I chilled with friends in Richmond Park during the day.
It was really nice to see Tanya, our fellow Remote who is now traveling on her own! She seems happy. :]
The deer seem pretty happy in the park too.
As do the birds.
And the people.
At night on the Fourth, we had our Remote Year Welcome Party. Started off on a double decker tour bus, with a cheeky British tour guide named Gary who had us in stitches as we rolled around the city and he pointed out landmarks. I was enthralled hearing all the cool historical facts about London!
The tour ended at the Blues Kitchen, where they were hosting a Fourth party for us ex-pats. They have an annual hot dog eating contest, because that’s what we Americans do on the Fourth...I think? (Personally, I’m a little anti-competitive eating, kinda feel like food is meant to be savored not inhaled) A few of my friends competed, but no one could beat the girl who threw back 13 dogs in 30 mins. Gross.
Abby honorable mention, 3.5 dogs and Charles...well, not sure why he competed.
My man, Mike Sholars represented with 7 dogs!!!
SamTom!
JP!
A rare smiling Kois, Natalie and JSloan in the back.
After the hot dog eating contest, there was a whole lot of laughs and some sweet blues music.
During the rest of the week, I fought off jet lag with a few well timed naps, worked a lot, visited the British Museum and prepared for an epic weekend hiking trip. And, by preparing I really mean, NOT preparing. Stay tuned for that story coming in the next blog post.
Outside the British Museum with DCarter, fellow Remote photog enthusiast
The British Museum, main rotunda
The British Museum houses many historical artifacts from ancient times (Greece, Egypt, Rome, Asia, etc). One of the most notable pieces is the Rosetta Stone, which was more crowded than the bus line for Machu Picchu. I'll have to go back at a non-peak hour. I couldn't even get near the thing without people stepping in front of me. Where's that British politeness? Guess they're all tourists.
Cool thing---museums in London are FREE, just like Washington DC! And the good thing is, the British Museum is right next to our co-working space.
I plan on returning because the museum is ginormous and I didn't get to see all the exhibits.
And, hopefully, I can do a better job of boxing out so I can actually get close to the Rosetta Stone.
That's week one in London --- well, actually, just the week --- the weekend story is much more rich! Stay tuned...
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
I’m in Europe now, and South America is in my rearview mirror. (Epic montage video in the making...) But, I never got a chance to blog about the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which lives up to the hype in so many ways. The following post is an epic, 50+ picture detailed account of the 4 day trek.
From left, Tom, Carolyn, Kristin, Me, Jacek, Abby and Anhton
I’m in Europe now, and South America is in my rearview mirror. (Epic montage video in the making...) But, I never got a chance to blog about the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which lives up to the hype in so many ways.
My friends at AllTheRooms.Blog listed Machu Picchu #2 in the most beautiful scenery in the world! Read More
We chose the 4 day trek with Valencia Travel, which I definitely recommend. The hike is really expensive (~$680) compared to other South American adventures, but you’re paying tourist prices, and treading on sacred Incan trails. Only gripe with the whole Inca Trail, is that even though you pay tourist premiums, you do NOT get premium toilets. Expect to squat in gross stalls for the majority of 4 days.
The 4 day trek takes you through several different micro-climates. You start in the dry forest on day 1 and trek into the alpine tundra and the cloud forest on day 2, and then into some tropical rain forest jungle like areas on day 3 and 4. Thankfully, we didn’t get rained on. I guess the Incan Gods were on our side.
The food is phenomenal! 3 x 4 course-meals a day. Each meal starts with a delicious side like a guacamole plate or mushroom ceviche. Usually, you will have a fresh fruit agua fresca to go with it, like papaya, or pineapple. Then, they almost always give you a delicious steaming hot soup, followed by a heaping plate of mixed veggies, and a meat and plentiful-carb meal. The food is cleanly cooked, never heavy and creatively prepared. One day we had thai beef with mixed peppers and onions. I’m amazed at what our cook, “Juan de Dios” can prepare while camping. One night, he brought us flambeed bananas in Pisco for dessert.
I ate better in the 4 days on the Inca Trail than I have all 4 months in South America!
Day 1 is dubbed as an ‘easy’ day, but I think most of us realized that our packs were heavier than we thought, and this might not be as easy as we thought. The elevation is ~11,000 - ~12,000 feet and while we were pretty acclimated by this point, the trail features a lot of uphill and downhill, uneven stone steps. (Not to mention, the bus picked us up at 4:30am, and because I was jamming on work deliverables, I went to bed around 2am) By the time we got to our Day 1 camp, I fell asleep immediately.
Day 2 is the ‘hard’ day and it was challenging for sure. The first half of the day is an unrelenting 900 meter climb.
It was beautiful. When you get to the top of the climb, called Dead Women’s Pass, the views on both sides are breathtaking.
One of the main attractions on the Inca Trail are the Incan ruins...intricately designed settlements that are partially grown over by lush vegetation. Seeing these reminds me of video games like Drake’s Uncharted or Tomb Raider. And, it’s mind blowing to think of people living in them so many centuries ago.
Some of our porters, or "chaskis", who carry the tents, food, gear, etc.
Trail is starting to get a tropical feel at the end of Day 2.
Our Day 2 camp in the Cloud Forest was spectacular.
We had the best campsite, with picturesque views of the faint mountain ranges disappearing into the mist in the distance. This was a huge highlight of the trip, even though it was the coldest night by far. It’s ~13,500 feet up in the mountains and temps got to -6C.
When we woke up, there was frost on the ground and it took a while to de-thaw my digits.
Frosty!
Jacek loves llamas!
The normal 4 day trek has you arrive at Campsite 3 around lunchtime, go to bed early, get up at 3am, and embark for Machu Picchu at ~4am in order to arrive at the landmark for sunrise.
But, our group was so fast (Our guide Victor kept calling us “Speedy Gonzalez”) that we were offered the option of pushing through on Day 3, and making it to Machu Picchu for sunset. This would mean that we would not camp out on Day 3, but rather have to purchase rooms ($15 USD) at a hostel in the Machu Picchu town of Aguas Calientes. The benefits were: seeing MP at sunset AND at sunrise; seeing MP at sunset when there were FAR less people; getting to MP at sunrise earlier than if we hiked, therefore FAR less people; and getting a hot shower and warm bed at the hostel after 3 hard days or trekking and 2 nights of cold weather camping.
While this decision was somewhat controversial in our group of 7, we ultimately opted to go for it, as the Incan allure was far too attractive. The sacred ruins have quite a magnetic pull...
We made it!
I personally was so happy we decided to push through. Machu Picchu is a bucket list type of thing, and I don’t know if I’ll ever make it back. Might as well try to maximize the time we had while we were there. I got amazing photos at multiple times of day, different types of light, and it was FAR less crowded in the early evening then the following day, when we encountered Disneyland-esque lines.
MP is not like the ancient pyramids, where there's a mystery of how they were built. There is a huge rock quarry at the top of the mountain, and we know it took them ~60-70 years to build the village in the 1400s.
The mysticism of Machu Picchu is due to the fact that during the Spanish Conquest, Machu Picchu was never discovered and ruined, like most of the other Incan Empire villages. Most likely, the Incan people abandoned the area when the Spanish conquered their Empire, and the village was empty and unknown for hundreds of years before it was re-discovered in the early 1900s.
And, Machu Picchu is simply beautiful. Built on the top of the mountain, it has this unbelievable charm and essence that cannot be described. The Incan people worshipped the Sun, and they constructed the village around the cycles of the Sun, with some of the temples having windows that perfectly align with the solar equinox and changing of the seasons. Brilliant construction and knowledge of astronomy way back then.
Sunrise!
Loves those llamas.
Incan Sculptures mirror the mountain ranges. BRILLIANT.
If Machu Picchu is on your bucket list, I highly recommend visiting. It lives up to the hype. If you're adventurous, the Inca Trail 4 day trek may be a good option. There are also 2 day treks. And, other non-Inca Trail treks like the Salkantay Trail, which is much cheaper, but lacks the Incan ruins and settlements.
Just go. You won't be disappointed---except with the bathroom situations.
Public Speaking Workshop: Cusco
Last Wednesday, I hosted a sold-out speaking workshop in Cusco for my fellow Remotes. My hotel had a sweet space called the ‘Sun Room’ which felt perfectly Zen for practicing public speaking. In honor of my friend and mentor: Cole GP who passed suddenly, the theme for the evening centered around Improv.
Last Wednesday, I hosted a sold-out speaking workshop in Cusco for my fellow Remotes. My hotel had a sweet space called the ‘Sun Room’ which felt perfectly Zen for practicing public speaking.
In honor of my friend and mentor: Cole GP who passed suddenly, the theme for the evening centered around Improv. We had an interactive discussion on the difference between acting vs public speaking, and improv vs preparation.
And, we played one of Cole’s favorite games, ‘Best/Worst’, in which the speaker must argue both sides of an impromptu topic on the front and back end of 1 minute. Best/Worst is a challenging game, but always yields ridiculous results and lots of laughs!!!
One thing I love is seeing people come out of their shell and shine like a superstar. Some people claim to be super shy, but when they get on stage, they turn into a rock star! That was the case with all 4 stellar storytellers!
Natalie shared a hilarious tale entitled “One Grey Day”, about a first date that ended up with a smoking car and 3 fire trucks on the side of the road.
Abe recalled a spring break story about almost inadvertently getting arrested for indecent exposure.
Kelly shared the tale of both earning and expunging her criminal record for illegally cutting down a Christmas tree.
And, finally, Jess had us in stitches as she told “A Story About Her Butt” and the training and preparation she took to trek on the Inca Trail.
All 4 storytellers were in the zone in the Zen Sun Room. I’m very proud of everyone who came out to the event, and I hope they all found value in it. I know I did.
Special thanks to Miranda for being our event photographer!
Cousteau Community Service Day in Cusco
Yesterday, 19 Remotes hopped on a bus and headed to the Azul Wasi orphanage, just outside of Cusco. Azul Wasi is a non profit home for at-risk children and teens that were abandoned on the streets of Cusco. We brought lunch and ate with the kids; cleaned up the greenhouse & planted veggies and fruits; did arts and crafts with the kids; played futbol together; etc. Also, we donated our fundraiser $ for the kids to buy warm winter clothes. Special thanks to Arestia, Max, Kirsten, Sam & Travis for organizing this awesome event.
Yesterday, 19 Remotes hopped on a bus and headed to the Azul Wasi orphanage, just outside of Cusco. Azul Wasi is a non profit home for at-risk children and teens that were abandoned on the streets of Cusco. We brought lunch and ate with the kids; cleaned up the greenhouse & planted veggies and fruits; did arts and crafts with the kids; played futbol together; etc. Also, we donated our fundraiser $ for the kids to buy warm winter clothes. Special thanks to Arestia, Max, Kirsten, Sam & Travis for organizing this awesome event.
The thing that struck me about this orphanage was how loving and warm the kids were! I’ve volunteered at orphanages and children’s homes before, but often the kids are a bit standoffish. Not the kids of Azul Wasi! They greet you with big hugs, and they are all very warm and sweet! They genuinely seemed really happy to have us there, and welcomed us with open arms. I think this is a testament to Alcides, the warm father figure who runs the home and creates a beautiful environment for them to learn and grow.
Alcides, introducing us to the home, and each of the kids.
I hope that our work in the greenhouse proves fruitful for the kids! I hope that they use the $ we donated wisely. And, I hope that the kids get more support from other groups like ours.
When I return to Cusco, I will do my best to return to Azul Wasi.
To Beard or Not to Beard?
One of my goals this year is to push myself out of my comfort zone. So far, so good. I’ve traveled more than ever; lived in 4 foreign cities; kinda learned Spanish; climbed a mountain; lost a toenail; etc. And, now, I’ve grown a beard.
One of my goals for this year is to push myself out of my comfort zone. So far, so good. I’ve traveled more than ever; lived in 4 foreign cities; kinda learned Spanish; climbed a 6,000 meter mountain; lost a toenail; etc. And, now, I’ve grown a beard.
I started growing a beard because mi chica de Buenos Aires: Fernanda, said she liked me better with scruff. Most guys in Argentina have facial hair. And, apparently, she has always had a thing for Charles Darwin.
Seemed apropos to Darwin: I must adapt to my environment in order to survive in South America. More scruff is needed.
I never really thought it would work for me. I don’t have that natural full bodied mane like a Jeff Sloan or a Brent Blum. These guys could be on the cover of Beards Weekly.
Jeff Sloan
Brent Blum
My beard comes in patchy, and it’s a blend of calico cat colors, ranging from brown to red to white. I tried growing it when I was in Colorado a few years ago, and when my sister saw the train wreck, she immediately called it off. I concurred.
But, after not shaving for 2 months, I actually got a lot of compliments. I think I blended in more with the South American culture. Some of the Remote girls said it gave me “street cred.” Remote Jacek said, “Yeah, I don’t like it.”
To beard or not to beard? Seems split. When I got to Cusco, I shaved because I needed a change. But, then I kinda missed it. Personally, I think it looks good when it's in that in-between stage, like the 5 o clock shadow that almost broke the internet two months ago. :]
Lesson learned: It is nice to push yourself out of your comfort zone.
Cusco Welcome Party
Kudos to Travis & Sam for planning a perfect Peruvian Welcome Party! We arrived to this amazing mansion overlooking Cusco and of course a llama was chillin’ n waiting to greet us. (Cuz, llamas are a thing here) And the path was lit by torches. The mansion had an incredible view, a draw bridge, impressive rooms with Peruvian style decor, a church adjacent to the house, a sweet little fire pit, etc. All great vibes at the party last night!
Kudos to Travis & Sam for planning a perfect Peru Welcome Party! We arrived to this amazing mansion overlooking Cusco and of course a llama was chillin’ and waiting to greet us. (Cuz, llamas are a thing here) And the path was lit by torches. Check out the video of our grand entrance:
The mansion had an incredible view...
...a draw bridge...
...impressive rooms with Peruvian decor...
...a church adjacent to the house...
...a sweet little fire pit...
...etc.
All great vibes at the party last night! (Except when that local guy tried to steal Heather’s phone, YIKES)
Mucho bailar anoche! (Much dancing last night)
Here's a video of the dance floor jamming with one of my favorite songs - “One More Time” by Daft Punk
Unfortunately, the party included a “going away” for 3 of our fellow Remotes: technically 2 and a half Aussies. Tom(Mountain Climbing Buddy), Tanya and Lisa are leaving Remote Year for various reasons…
...and they will be sorely missed.
But, everyone has a path in life. And, everyone has to follow their heart.
Our group is down from 70 to 66 now. But, Candice, Tom, Tanya & Lisa will be with us in spirit.
Communicate Like Cousteau
One of my goals for this Remote Year is to host 1 public speaking workshop per city. 12 cities, 12 workshops. I’m calling the series 'Communicate Like Cousteau'. (RY3 code name = Cousteau) Jacques Cousteau was a true Renaissance man. A revolutionary scientist, explorer, filmmaker, conservationist, photographer, author, etc. Cousteau was also an orator who often gave speeches about his ground-breaking work and political views. I think Cousteau would be proud of us. And, I hope we honor his name.
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One of my goals for this Remote Year is to host 1 public speaking workshop per city. 12 cities, 12 workshops. In LA, my workshops were called Communication Community.
On Remote Year, I’m calling it “Communicate Like Cousteau”. (RY3 code name = Cousteau) Jacques Cousteau was a true Renaissance man. A revolutionary scientist, explorer, filmmaker, conservationist, photographer, author, etc.
Remote Year 3 is comprised of 70 professionals from around the world, who are all incredibly bright, innovative and adventurous. We have artists, engineers, writers, photographers, entrepreneurs, etc. And, we are ALL explorers. Pioneers of the digital nomadic world.
Cousteau was also an orator who often gave speeches about his ground-breaking work and political views. I think Cousteau would be proud of us. And, I hope we honor his name.
Workshop #1: Cordoba, Incutex TechPub
In Córdoba, the first workshop was held on March 23rd, in the Incutex co-working space's conference room, the TechPub. We had 9 in total, and the theme of the night centered around the late, great actor, comedian, and philanthropist Robin Williams. There will never be another like him and I like to use him as an example of just how far you can push yourself in public speaking. He was a master.
We started off with some improv games, and for vocal warmups, we impersonated some of Robin's most famous movie quotes from Aladdin, Good Will Hunting and Good Morning Vietnam. "Bueeeeeenaaaaas noooooooches, Cooooooooordooooobaaaaaa!"
Members of the group got up and told short stories based on something they are passionate about. Super proud of these people for pushing themselves!
- Laura - Goal of traveling to all 50 states but the requirements are that she must stay over night and must do a cool event!
- Travis - Tried over 40 times to get the most epic zip line frisbee YouTube video but the alas, 2 golden opportunities were left on the table as the frisbee was dropped!
- Brecht - Was involved in the Belgium version of 'Boy Scouts' and has filled various leadership roles, including organizing fun activities where the kids would play baseball and get crazy dirty!
- Tanya - Reminisced about how delicious the fresh cucumbers from her garden back home are and how she can't wait to return and get back to her gardening!
- Eric - Talked about his love of mountain biking and going to the top of mountains in California so he could fly down the hills! He very much prefers downhill riding to uphill. ;]
- Kelly - Comes from a very active family and always needs to be doing something! She found her love for endurance running, and now has finished a 50k race! Very impressive!
- Patrick - Shared the story of how Turd Bird was born, and how he hosted a WrestleMania style cage match event in his friends' backyard!
And lastly, we had a keynote speech from Melissa, who shared a hilarious life story that was honest, relatable and inspirational. Melissa involved the audience in the speech and had us in stitches with her humorously daring topic!
Workshop #2: Buenos Aires, La Ninina
The 2nd workshop was a little more challenging to host. Our co-working offices didn't quite have the space for the type of event I wanted. I had to go outside the inner circle, which presented logistics and linguistic challenges!
La Ninina is a local cafe in the Palermo district of Buenos Aires and a favorite amongst my fellow travelers. They have a gorgeous 1st floor private room that screamed 'BOOK ME!!!' as soon as I saw it. There is a window overlooking the kitchen, which reflects a lot of light into the space and creates a comfy ambience.
For this second workshop, the group doubled in size. 18 total attendees. I think using EventBrite to track invitations AND having the event at such a cool venue helped to bolster the numbers. And, perhaps word got around that these events are actually fun?
The theme of the night centered around the late great musician: Prince, who was an incredibly talented musician who liked to take risks. While some of Prince's quotes are less than inspiring (See list) I really liked this one, as I feel it is very apropos to the fear of public speaking:
Prince: "The most important thing is to be true to yourself, but I also like danger. That's what's missing from pop music today. There's no excitement or mystery."
To warm up the audience, I had them alternate verses of famous Prince songs: Kiss and 1999, which was hilarious because none of us can hit the high notes like the legend himself! We then had an interactive discussion about the various ways to use our voices to enhance our speech. After the discussion, I invited audience members up to tell a short story. Following the stories, we had a brief critique of the storytellers, talking about both positive aspects of their stories, and offering a few areas for improvement. Here's a recap:
- Richard - Heartwarming story of cooking mac n cheese for his family, almost losing a finger in the process, and his mom’s home-cooked redemption.
- Arestia - Wowed the audience with a wonderful story of a documentary film she worked on featuring an Olympic equestrian rider and the stunning farm location they got to film on.
- Adam - Story of riding old, rickety motorbikes in Vietnam, and then having to hitch a ride in a chicken truck where they got pooped on.
- Sam - How she became a young firestarter, trying to burn a piece of paper for a school project and almost burning her house down while her father took a nap.
- Abby - Spoke about the preparation of her valedictorian speech for her high school graduation, and how she does NOT have a passion public speaking.
- Johnson - Suspenseful tale of being on a boat in Croatia with a girl and having to swim down to the bottom to rescue an anchor that got away!
- Miranda - Her story centered on her clumsiness while mountain biking with friends on a tiny children’s bike, swerving to avoid a boulder, busting open her head, and getting rocks implanted in her skin. OUCH!
- Tom - Giving a best man speech in Sri Lanka, and trying to be so cute by giving the first half of the speech in Sri Lankan, inadvertently insulting half the audience!
- Jonathan - Remembered the first time he had sex, and his mother somehow knowing that it happened, and asking him personal questions about it afterward! Hilarious.
- Kelly - Story about how she and her friends were mistakenly locked in a prison for 3 hours as college students! Girl has done HARD TIME.
- Mihai - A skiing adventure gone awry---the story of him driving 1.5 hours out of the way of their desired ski resort while his buddies were snoozing!
- Charles - Had the audience eating out of the palm of his hand, as he recalled taking the test to become a magician at the famous Magic Castle in Hollywood!
Overall, I'm extremely pleased with how the first 2 workshops have played out. I'm excited to host the next one for La Paz, Bolivia, and giving myself more time to plan and prepare. I'm also looking to open the workshops up to the local community, which will be a way for me to push myself out of my comfort zone.
Stay tuned to hear how it goes!
Folk You Monday - Open Mic Night
On Remote Year, there are events ~every night. We arrived in Buenos Aires late Sunday, and on Monday, there was an open mic night called “Folk You Monday” at this cool little artsy venue. 4 of my travel mates got on the list and performed live!
Kudos to Travis, Kirsten, Tanya and Mike for stepping up and absolutely killing it!
On Remote Year, there are events ~every night. We arrived in Buenos Aires late Sunday, and on Monday, there was an open mic night called “Folk You Monday” at this cool little artsy venue. 4 of my travel mates got on the list and performed live!
Kudos to Travis, Kirsten, Tanya and Mike for stepping up and absolutely killing it! Incredibly proud and impressed by all of them. I’m traveling with incredibly talented, multi-dimensional people from around the world.
Travis is from Wisconsin; Kirsten is from Ottawa, Canada; Tanya is from Australia and Mike is from Toronto, Canada. Love the diversity.
Some snaps:
This guy is not part of Remote Year but I thought this snap was worth sharing.
Tango Show, WHOA!
Thursday night was our Farewell Dinner Party for Córdoba. We had dinner at ‘El Arrabal’, featuring a brilliant Tango Dance show by beautiful dancers!!
I’ll let this video speak for itself. Es muy caliente!
And, some party pics!
Sarah and I.
Our lovely leaders, Travis & Samantha, aka Tramantha
Patrick...it's great to see this guy finally loosen up.
"They're matching!"
Some of our group who took tango lessons while in town.
Mike & Jess, who I would say earned Best Dressed!
Lisa & Abe!
Kelly & Tom!
And, the birthday girl, Samantha!