About Us

We are retired educators who have had a life-long passion for travel. When not travelling, we enjoy living in beautiful Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Our two grown sons continue to enjoy travelling and appreciate how their world-view and perspective have been broadened by their travel experiences. We believe the journey is as important as the destination; and even when things might go awry, the experiences are enriching and empowering. We believe a balance of independent wandering and guided local wisdom ensures the richest experiences. The Covid-19 Pandemic put a halt to travel for a while, but we have happily been able to resume our explorations again. However, the nature of travel has changed and the tips we offer reflect this new reality.

 

              Enjoying our home town of Calgary and nearby Banff, Alberta

Carol - is an experienced, avid worldwide traveler, having visited approximately 70 countries (and counting). Carol loves sharing her trip know-how and experience with others. Carol has unique insights on the ambience, flavour, and cultural sensitivities of the places we visit. Her years as an English Language Specialist at the K-12, college and university levels and her work with international education and global clients have honed her skills to tune in to the cultural uniqueness of her destinations, and to be able to communicate in many environments. She has an affinity for museums, art galleries and local markets as the places to understand a place. Carol believes in planning trips well in advance to be able to have smooth travel connections, appropriate accommodations and sufficient background information to appreciate what is being seen; but to be open to the spontaneous events and chance meetings that often form the most memorable experiences.

Erich - is a retired educator at the secondary and post-secondary level with a background in the sciences, environmental education, and computing. Erich has served as the webmaster and technical advisor for several non-profit organizations in Canada. He loves to travel and enjoy the natural and cultural heritage found throughout the world and to share these with you in pictures and comments.  He enjoys actively exploring areas with beautiful natural landscapes, and learning about the geology and wildlife of a region.  He also appreciates the relaxation and rejuvenation that comes with tropical getaways. Erich believes in taking advantage of technology to be informed and stay safe. Out of the way places now are no longer remote and the security of knowing how to get in and out as well as how to get help when needed makes traveling that much more enjoyable.

 

      Reaching the Peak in Hong Kong                                         Exploring the Missions in Texas

You will see reflected in our pages our travel philosophy.  We believe that travel builds global connection. Travel brings a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty of the natural and human world. It encourages reflection on the accomplishments and cruelties of history. Travel provides unparalleled opportunities to break down stereotypes, build cultural understanding and encourage mutual acceptance. There is great joy in observing and experiencing the many ways that people work, play, study, worship, celebrate, shop, communicate, dine, love, create, and go about their lives.

 

   Watching children play with bubbles in Edinburgh              Appreciating candy-making craft in Malaga

However, a confluence of economic trends and social media has led to the fairly recent phenomenon of overtourism with its concomitant environmental degradation, harm to local populations, and dangers for travellers. We continue to advocate responsible and respectful travel in ways that improve livelihood for local people, preserve cultural traditions, and strengthen environmental conservation.
 

Overtourism: What is it and how can we avoid it

7 Ways You Can Help Turn the Tide on Overtourism

10 Easy Solutions to Travel & Avoid Contributing to Overtourism Issues
 

This website has no commercial or advertising purpose. Information is strictly our own experience and insight. Advice is well-intentioned but certainly revocable. Photos are our own, except where attributed (Creative Commons Attribution - Share Alike 3.0.) Links to other websites which we have found helpful  are included, but do not imply endorsement of their content. We hope you will find our site useful and inspirational for your traveling experiences!