#Azores nature trips

[travelernight]

Portugal: Experience The Magic – Top 10 Fairy-Tale Locations You Need To See

[renmoldovan]

São Jorge Island, Azores

instagram: renmoldovan

[slenvs3000f23]

Final Blog

Describe your personal ethic as you develop as a nature interpreter. What beliefs do you bring? What responsibilities do you have? What approaches are most suitable for you as an individual?

To start, I think it's important to tell you my mindset before I started this nature interpretation course. My outlook on the relationship between humans and the environment was clouded in negativity and pessimism. The overwhelming sense of helplessness in the face of environmental degradation had led me to lose hope. A transformative experience during a family trip to Portugal's Azores Islands one summer forced me to confront the harsh realities of the human impact on the environment.

My connection to the Azores was deeply rooted in family ties, as my father had grown up on Terceira, one of the islands. Excitement buzzed within me as I anticipated exploring the rich culture and meeting long-awaited relatives. Little did I know that this journey would reshape not only my perception of the culture but also my understanding of humanity's relationship with the natural world.

The moment that remains etched in my memory is encountering stray dogs on the streets of Terceira. One image, in particular, lingers—a three-legged dog navigating the crowded beach, scavenging for survival. Astonishingly, this seemed to be the norm, accepted by the islanders as part of daily life. The harsh reality hit me when I visited my grandmother's countryside home, only to find her neighbour chaining multiple dogs to their house, surviving on stale portions of bread. The dogs were denied the most basic elements of a dog's life—walks, human connection, and exposure to the outdoors.

As a dog lover, I couldn't turn a blind eye. I freed one of the dogs, and for the rest of the trip she came everywhere with me. Many moments with the dog and I were the first she ever experienced how to be a dog. However, the painful dilemma arose when I had to return her to the chained-up wall before leaving. Did I truly make a difference, or did I unknowingly subject her to more heartache?

This experience, though emotionally charged, was a cultural shock that revealed the absence of animal welfare laws and services on Terceira. The lack of legal safeguards against animal cruelty and the absence of an animal control system spoke volumes about the necessity of shelters and services in maintaining a humane society.

In that moment, I felt powerless—confronted with the harsh reality that there seemed to be nothing I could do to address the systemic issues contributing to the mistreatment of animals on the island. The trip left me questioning the effects of my actions and the impact of individual efforts in the face of a deeply rooted problem.

However, enrolling in a nature interpretation course became the catalyst for a shift in perspective. It rekindled a sense of hope by revealing the ways I could leverage my abilities to share the profound impacts of human behaviour on the environment. The journey of becoming a nature interpreter is not just a choice; it's a passionate commitment to fostering a deeper connection between people and the natural world. As I navigate the enriching course of nature interpretation, my personal ethic evolves, contributing to my beliefs, responsibilities, and approaches that shape the lens through which I perceive and communicate the wonders of nature.

Foundations of belief:

The story of my trip in Terceira forms the foundation of my belief in the interconnectedness of all living beings. It underscored the intricate relationship between human actions and the well-being of animals, emphasizing the need for compassion and responsibility. The dogs surviving on the streets of Terceira weren't just part of the landscape; they were sentient beings with their own worth. Nature, I realized, is not separate from us; it is an integral part of our existence, deserving of respect and protection.

I also believe in the transformative power of nature experiences. Nature has a unique ability to inspire awe, curiosity, and a sense of belonging. As a nature interpreter, I carry the belief that by fostering a meaningful connection with the environment, we create caretakers of the Earth – individuals motivated to protect and preserve the precious ecosystems.

Responsibilities as a nature interpreter:

One primary responsibility is to bridge the gap between the scientific intricacies of nature and the diverse audience I engage with. It's not just about presenting facts but about crafting narratives that resonate with people from all walks of life. This requires careful consideration of cultural contexts, diverse perspectives, and the emotional connection individuals have with nature.

Equally important is the responsibility to instill a sense of wonder and curiosity. Nature interpretation isn't solely about imparting knowledge; it's about sparking a genuine interest and fostering a lifelong love for the natural world. Cultivating curiosity encourages continuous learning and a desire to explore the mysteries of nature. It's about empowering individuals to take positive actions, whether big or small, to contribute to the well-being of the planet.

Approaches aligned with my individuality:

As I navigate nature interpretation, I've come to realize that my individual personality and insights play a crucial role in how I connect with others. One of my key approaches is the cultivation of curiosity. I believe in igniting the spark of wonder that resides within each person. By fostering curiosity, I aim to inspire a lifelong love for learning about the natural world.

Storytelling is another powerful tool in my interpretive arsenal. By weaving narratives that highlight the intricate relationships within ecosystems or the struggles of individual species, I aim to captivate hearts and minds. Stories have the ability to evoke empathy and forge lasting connections between people and the environment.

My approach is rooted in the idea that experiences in nature are transformative. Whether it's a serene walk in the woods, the exhilaration of spotting a rare bird, or the beauty of a breathtaking sunset, these experiences have the power to evoke emotions and create lasting memories. I believe in fostering these personal connections with nature, as they often serve as the catalyst for a deeper understanding and commitment to conservation.

Furthermore, I recognize the importance of fostering a sense of community. Nature interpretation is not a solo endeavour but a collective journey. By building a community of individuals passionate about nature, we amplify our impact and create a network of like-minded individuals dedicated to the preservation of our planet.

What the course taught me:

Through this course, I found my passion for nature reignited. It became clear that my role as a nature interpreter is about using my voice and creative expressions to weave narratives that resonate with others. By fostering an understanding of the interconnectedness between humans and the environment, I believe we can inspire collective action and pave the way for positive change.

Through the readings, discussions, and interacting with other students blogs, I've gained valuable insights into different perspectives of nature interpretation. The course has reinforced the idea that effective interpretation is not a "one size fits all" approach, but requires adaptability and creativity.

In conclusion, as I evolve as a nature interpreter, my ethic is influenced by my interconnectedness, responsibility, wonder, and inclusivity. Guided by these principles, I embark on a mission to inspire others to appreciate, understand, and protect the extraordinary beauty of the natural world. 🌿🌎✨

Thanks for reading :)

Shanel

[lboogie1906]

Cheryl Renee James (born March 28, 1966) known by her stage name Salt, is a rapper. She is known as a member of the female rap trio Salt-N-Pepa, which includes Pepa (Sandra Denton) and Spinderella (Deidra "Dee Dee" Roper). She starred in The Salt-N-Pepa Show. The daughter of a transit worker and Barbara James, a bank manager, was born in Brooklyn. She enrolled at Queensborough Community College to study nursing. She met Sandra Denton in 1985 while attending college. Her then-boyfriend and co-worker Hurby Azor approached the pair and asked them to record a rap for a class project. They formed the group "Super Nature" and were joined by Latoya Hanson who was replaced by Deidra Roper joined in 1987. They released five studio albums: Hot, Cool & Vicious (1986), A Salt with a Deadly Pepa (1988), Blacks' Magic (1990), Very Necessary (1993), and Brand New (1997). Salt co-starred in Who's the Man? In 1997, she recorded the song "Stomp" with gospel artists Kirk Franklin and God's Property for their album God's Property, one of the bestselling albums in gospel music history. They were the first female rap act to have gold, platinum, and multi-platinum albums, and the first female rap act to win a Grammy. The group disbanded in 2002 but reformed in 2008. She appeared on VH1's inaugural Hip Hop Honors along with Pepa. Salt, Pepa, and Spinderella performed on the second Hip Hop Honors, performing their hit "Whatta Man". This was the trio's first performance as Salt-N-Pepa since 1999. On October 23, 2008, Salt-N-Pepa performed "Shoop", "Push It", and "Whatta Man" at BET Hip Hop Awards. In 2009, she was featured in the Generation Gospel Exclusive on 106 & Gospel. She married Gavin Wray (2000), although they dated for ten years before the marriage, and have two children. She and her daughter are referenced in Tupac's song "Keep Ya Head Up". In an interview, she stated she considers herself a feminist "in a way", emphasizing the need for women to avoid complete emotional and financial dependence on men. She was baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist Church on a mission trip in Ethiopia with Oakwood College. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence #womenhistorymonth https://www.instagram.com/p/CqVoyYkrmKU/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[frank77gld]

The big tree can be seen in Jardim Botanico Antonio. It's big botanical garden with rare and exotic plants💚 There nice trails and grottoes. The tree in the first picture is a Ficus Macrophylla. I know this because there was a name plate😉 And it really does look like Ficus. The tree is best know for its imposing roots I read on Wikipedia. The roots is what we most liked about the tree😀 it was picture worthy material 📸 A short visit to the garden is worth it👍 It's free any way🙂 Photo 4 and 5 are at Piscanas Naturalis das Calhetas da #Maia. This is a natural hotspring ♨️ in the #sea🌊 The changing rooms where closed so we did not go in. Who knows next time? The hotspring is in a small town called Maia. It was difficult to drive at this town. Very narrow streets. The view from photo 4 is Miradouro do Frade. Liked the view but the weather was no good. Ended up with a photo that was not great. I made it better with Luminar AI. Photos 6 and 7 are at liquor 🥃 factory A Mulcher de Capote. We went for some (small) shots at a liquor factory. People in São Miguel are proudly with this one. Even the president went there🍻 Us we took a free tour and some free shots. It's was a fun and #tasty site trip. I really took very little because I still needed to drive moments later🤫 I bought a bottle for later😉🥃 #chears Lastly as you can see our favourite stop of a nother success day is.. hotspring♨️ Paco da Dona Beija. This was day 6 of our vacation. The 23 th of #September! The vacation is almost to the and. Thank you for following so far! I know I posted so much of the Azores 🙈 Really a recommendation the Azores👌 The last photo is at Goncalo Velha Cabral square. The nice wite architecture is Portas da Cidade the city gate. #geosites #miradourodofrade #hotspring #azores #azoren #azorenportugal #azoresislands #azorenurlaub #saomiguel #photography #nature #landscape #vacation #vacatiovibes #travel #travelblogger #travelphotography #wanderlust #greenisland #citygate #portasdacidade #portugal #JardimBotanicoAntonio #ficusmacrophylla #ficus #MiradourodoFrade (bij São Miguel, Açores) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cnabr0eDUnc/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[caraalee]

Peaks and Greens: Pico Island

After three years without any two-week, multi-stop #CarubinTrips, we’re back with snaps of views, food, and musings from Portugal! To celebrate our nuptials and make up for lost travel time, we landed on a four-stop honeymoon extravaganza based on our priorities of rolling green hills, ocean views, a variety of wine, seafood, and egg custard pastries. Our first stop: Pico Island!

To kick off our trip, we flew from New York to São Miguel Island, which only took about five hours. From there, we flew straight to Pico Island. Unintentionally, we ordered the trip starting with the least populated place (Pico) and gradually made our way back to being around too many people (São Miguel →  Porto → Lisbon). We started in Pico solely because those were the only dates available for a hidden gem of an Airbnb recommended by a colleague. This place was very worth shuffling our itinerary around. 

Those views! The house was on the highest point in São Roque, in the central north side of the island, which was incredible. We rented a car—pretty much a must-do in the Azores. And after a long time Googling at the Pico airport discovered that you do not need an international driver’s license in Portugal! It took us a bit to find the house, gather our bearings, and figure out where the grocery stores were. Luckily, our host stocked the kitchen for us, which was a huge lifesaver, and the island was so small and fairly easy to navigate.

After staying in to cook on night one, we ventured out on our own on day two. The tour we booked ended up getting canceled, so we set out to visit some of the stops that would have been included. The first stop was Gruta das Torres, a lava cave located in Madalena, which was on the west side of the island. Driving there was a bit rough and bumpy. The roads around the house were unpaved, and we stumbled upon wild cows while trying to get to the main road. Crazy! 

It was so scenic along the way, so we had to stop to take photos. It helped that there were barely any other cars, so it really felt like we were in our own dreamland. 

Gorg! Unfortunately, when we got to Gruta das Torres, there were no tours available. That was a bummer, but we had plenty more to see. Vinha de Criação Velha was close by, so we headed there. The vineyard is a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up black basalt stone walls (we learned so much about basalt in the Azores). It was really cool, and we got some good views of Mt. Pico from there.

By the time we finished exploring the vineyard, we were ready for lunch. The first two locations we looked up were hosting parties, so we wound up at Cella Bar, which was pretty good and had more great views. We took advantage of their wine selection and tried a 2011 czar wine—fancy! We shared a cheese appetizer starring three Pico cheeses. I got the squid salad, and Roobz got sausage. 

Delish! Afterward, we checked out one of the natural pools by our Airbnb, Piscina Naturais São Roque. It was very rocky and fishy, so we didn’t fully submerge but enjoyed the scenery and sun (and we could see the Airbnb in the far distance!).

For dinner we went to Casa Ancora and were met with a line full of tourists waiting for the restaurant to open. Classic. The food was pretty good—not bad but not amaaazing. The popularity probably stems from the modern vibe both food-wise and within the restaurant. We shared the “low-temperature” (cold?) shrimps. Really good! I had the barracuda, and Roobz got the filet mignon, which included a delicious potato puree. We also shared a bottle of local rosé!

On day three, we headed to Lagoa do Capitão and thought it was just a lake we could relax at and have a snack. We were wrong...in a good way! There was a lake that was pretty meh, but it was surrounded by the most beautifully sprawling green hills I’ve ever seen in my life! With cows grazing nearby and into the distance. And, of course, a view of Mt. Pico! LOVELY. A highlight of my life!

For lunch, we went to Aço, a snack bar with authentic food. We sat outside in the back patio, which was cute. In touristy fashion, we accidentally ordered two bottles of wine instead of two glasses—whoops! But finally got to try green wine and loved it. Not too sweet and not too dry. We shared garlic shrimp, and I got a creamy seafood and mushroom dish. Roobz got the local beef with shrimp. The squid was good. 

After lunch, we went to Lajes on a whim so we could say we saw the three big towns on the island. Very cute and picturesque! We checked out the natural pool there to dip our legs and lie out in the sun before getting some light bites and heading back to the house.

On our last full day in Pico, we wanted to try some pastries—you gotta in Portugal. We went to Pastelaria Machedo, and our overeager selves ordered three huge pastries. After the cashier told us the price, and we realized we didn’t have enough cash, Roobz went to find an ATM. Could we have gotten only two pastries. Sure. But then who would we really be in life? It was worth it because they were GOOD. (Pro tip: get some cash early on if you are staying in São Roque because there weren’t any ATMs in that town!).

After getting our sweets on, we headed to Museo do Vinho da Ilha do Pico for some history! It was only 4 euros and very cool to see the old wine presses and learn about the history of winemaking in Pico. We saw even more cool views and very cool flora. Cool all around! 

By the time we returned to the Airbnb, it was raining, and we had to deal with wet laundry, so we stayed in and enjoyed the rain and clouds, which produced a beautiful rainbow we saw at eye level!

Pico was dreamy, isolated in the best way, and a lovely way to kick off our honeymoon. It was probably my favorite out of all the places, and they were all great, so that’s saying something. Next stop: São Miguel Island!

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 5.11

Holidays

Aso ote Tala Lei (Gospel Day; Tuvalu)

Azores Day

Blow Bubbles For Your Cat Day

Bob Marley Day (Jamaica)

Day of the Military Police of the National Armed Forces (Indonesia)

Feynman Day

Human Rights Day (Vietnam)

International Strange Music Festival

Joan of Arc Day (Orleans, France)

Lokadagur (Iceland)

The Long and Winding Road Day

Mata Tirtha Aunsi (Mother’s Day; Nepal)

Miskolc Day (Hungary)

Mixed Race Irish Day

Moose Hide Campaign Day (Canada)

National Deer Association Giving Day

National Foam Rolling Day

National Girls Learning Code Day

National Hairy Nosed Wombat Day (Australia)

National Wear Red Pants Dy

National Technology Day (India)

Richard Feynman Day

Sex Difference in Health Awareness Day

Somerset Day (UK)

Tubeless Tire Day

Twilight Zone Day

Victoria Sponge Day

Witching Day (Isle of Man)

World Ego Awareness Day

World Keffiyeh Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Chocolate Ball Day

Eat What You Want Day

Eat Without Guilt Day

Hostess Cupcake Day

National Mocha Torte Day

2nd Thursday in May

Dress in Purple Day (Texas) [2nd Thursday]

Keller Williams RED Day [2nd Thursday]

Lanimer Day (fka Landimere’s Day; Lanarkshire & Aberdeen, UK) [1st Thursday after 6th]

One Day Without Shoes [2nd Thursday]

Independence Days

Imvrassia (Declared; 2011) [unrecognized]

Minnesota Statehood Day (#32; 1858)

Feast Days

Anthimus of Rome (Christian; Saint)

Gangulphus of Burgundy (a.k.a. Gengulf; Christian; Saint)

Ice Saints (Europe)

Majolus of Cluny (a.k.a. Maieul; Christian; Saint)

Mamertus, the first of the Ice Saints (Christian; Saint)

Ma Zu (Goddess of the Sea’s Birthday; Buddhism, Taoism)

Nimnim (Muppetism)

Nisga'a Day (Nisga'a Nation/British Columbia)

Paulus Aemilius (Positivist; Saint)

Radunitsa (Ancestors’ Veneration Day; Belarus, Russian Christians, Thomas Sunday Slavs)

Salvador Dali Day (Artology; Church of the SubGenius; Pastafarian; Saint)

Syn’s Blot (Pagan)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Lemuria (Day 2 of 3; Ancient Rome) [Unlucky to Marry.]

Prime Number Day: 131 [32 of 72]

Shakku (赤口 Japan) [Bad luck all day, except at noon.]

Premieres

Ahab the Arab, by Ray Stevens (Novelty Song; 1962)

Cats (UK Musical Play; 1981)

Cooked, by Michael Pollan (Book; 2013)

Dark Shadows (Film; 2012)

Firestarter (Film; 1984)

Fox-Terror (WB MM Cartoon; 1957)

Higher Ground, recorded by Stevie Wonder (Song; 1973)

A Knight’s Tale (Film; 2001)

MacArthur Park, by Richard Harris (Song; 1968)

The Natural (Film; 1984)

Penny Dreadful (TV Series; 2014)

Road Trip (Film; 2000)

Sniffles Takes a Trip (WB MM Cartoon; 1940)

Tales of Brave Ulysses, recorded by Cream (Song; 1967)

Turn Coat, by Jim Butcher (Novel; 2009)

Water Babies (Disney Cartoon; 1935)

Woodstock (Soundtrack Album; 1970)

Woolen Under Where (WB MM Cartoon; 1963)

Today’s Name Days

Gangolf, Joachim, Mamertus (Austria)

Kiril, Kirila, Metodi (Bulgaria)

Franjo, Mamerto (Croatia)

Svatava (Czech Republic)

Mamertus (Denmark)

Leevo, Liivar, Liivo (Estonia)

Osmo (Finland)

Estelle, Mayeul (France)

Joachim, Mamertus (Germany)

Argyris, Armodios, Dioskouridis, Methodios, Olympia (Greece)

Ferenc (Hungary)

Achille, Fabio, Fiorenzo, Marziale, Stella (Italy)

Karmena, Manfreds, Milda (Latvia)

Mamertas, Miglė, Pilypas, Skirgaudas (Lithuania)

Magda, Malvin (Norway)

Adalbert, Benedykt, Filip, Franciszek, Iga, Ignacja, Ignacy, Lew, Lutogniew, Mamert, Mira, Żegota (Poland)

Chiril, Metodie, Mochie (România)

Blažena (Slovakia)

Fabio, Francisco (Spain)

Märit, Märta (Sweden)

Asa, Ervin, Erwin, Irvin, Irving, Irwing, Marlo, Marlon, Marlow, Marvin, Merle, Merlin, Mervin (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 131 of 2024; 234 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 4 of week 19 of 2023

Celtic Tree Calendar: Saille (Willow) [Day 26 of 28]

Chinese: Month 3 (Bing-Chen), Day 22 (Ji-Si)

Chinese Year of the: Rabbit 4721 (until February 10, 2024)

Hebrew: 20 Iyar 5783

Islamic: 20 Shawwal 1444

J Cal: 10 Bīja; Threesday [10 of 30]

Julian: 28 April 2023

Moon: 59%: Waxing Gibbous

Positivist: 19 Caesar (5th Month) [Paulus Aemilius]

Runic Half Month: Ing (Expansive Energy) [Day 2 of 15]

Season: Spring (Day 53 of 90)

Zodiac: Taurus (Day 22 of 30)

[wordsmatter09]

Image source: windows10spotlight.com

There is a diamond island among the Azores archipelago - the Vila Franco do Campo. Due to the collapse of an ancient volcano, the island has a natural swimming pool. From the nearby settlement, Tagarete Pier, the visitors can take a ferry, and after ending a short trip, a vacationer will find himself in an unusual place.

[saurabhcontentwriter]

Hidden Gems in Portugal You Won't Want to Miss 🌍✨

Hey, fellow travelers! If you’re planning a European tour and want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, Portugal has some incredible hidden gems waiting for you.

Here are a few must-visit places that will make your trip unforgettable

Sintra’s Enchanted Palaces 🏰 Just a train ride from Lisbon, Sintra is home to stunning palaces like Quinta da Regaleira and Monserrate Palace. The fairy-tale vibes are strong here!

Évora’s Historic Charm 🏛️ A UNESCO World Heritage site, Évora boasts Roman ruins and medieval architecture. Don’t miss the Chapel of Bones and the charming cobblestone streets.

The Serene Azores 🌋 This stunning archipelago is perfect for nature lovers! Explore volcanic landscapes, hike to breathtaking views, and unwind in geothermal springs.

Cascais: Coastal Beauty 🌊 Just a short trip from Lisbon, this coastal town offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed vibe. Stroll along the waterfront and indulge in fresh seafood.

The Historical Town of Óbidos 🏰 Step back in time in this medieval town, famous for its cherry liqueur, Ginjinha! Explore narrow streets and the enchanting castle.

Piódão: A Village Frozen in Time 🏞️ Nestled in the mountains, this schist village is a true hidden gem. Enjoy stunning views and the unique architecture that makes Piódão so special.

Tavira: The Algarve’s Best-Kept Secret 🌅 Known for its historic charm and beautiful beaches, Tavira offers a laid-back atmosphere and picturesque sights without the crowds.

Portugal is a treasure trove of hidden gems that offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Make sure to add these stops to your itinerary for an unforgettable adventure! ✈️❤️

[toughgirlchallenges]

Erin Leider-Pariser: From Celebrity Trainer to Global Adventure Leader - Insights and Principles from Her New Book, "Get Lost: Seven Principles for Trekking Life with Grace and Other Life Lessons from Kick-Ass Women’s Adventure Travel”

Erin Leider-Pariser is a trailblazer in the realm of wellness and adventure travel. Beginning her career as a fitness instructor in Los Angeles and later becoming a trainer to the stars in New York City, Erin's journey has been defined by a passion for adventure and a commitment to empowering women.

After earning a master’s degree in exercise physiology at Columbia University, Erin founded Sports Travel Adventure Therapy (STAT), leading women on transformative journeys around the world for over 30 years. In 2023, she authored "Get Lost," a memoir and manifesto articulating her Seven Principles for Trekking Life with Grace.

Growing up in Miami as the "tomboy" of the family, Erin's adventurous spirit led her to explore the world, spending time abroad in London and hitchhiking 45 years ago. Her experiences have shaped her belief in the transformative power of nature and the importance of embracing life's journey.

Join us as we delve into Erin's remarkable story, reflect on her insights shared in "Get Lost," and discover why it's not where you are, but where you've been that truly matters.

***

 Don't miss the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 AM UK time!  

Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

This episode of the Tough Girl Podcast is proudly sponsored by INOV8, pioneers in cutting-edge sportswear. 

Use code TOUGHGIRL15 to get your 15% discount.  Click here 

***

Show notes

Who is Erin

Being based in NYC and Aspen, Colorado

Writing her book: Get Lost: Seven Principles for Trekking Life with Grace and Other Life Lessons from Kick-Ass Women’s Adventure Travel. 

Travelling and adventuring for over 30 years

Growing up in Miami and being very active

Being the 3rd girl in the family and growing up as the ‘tomboy’

Playing all the sports 

Spending time in London and doing a semester abroad

Hitching 45 years ago

STATs - Sports Travel Adventure Therapy 

Making her way to NYC and working as a personal trainer

Teaching fitness - the Jane Fonda Method

Going back to get her Masters

Getting married and having kids

Being forced to reevaluate her career and needing to make some changes

Looking for purpose in her own life

Why it’s about the journey and not the destination

The talking stick ceremony 

The transformation power of nature

The power of vulnerability 

Dealing with a challenging moment and group dynamics

Honouring and obeying your intuition 

Getting lost and feeling lost in her own life

Walking with integrity 

No judgement 

Asking for grace

Starting her morning with a mantra

Love, honour and obey your intuition 

How the book came about

Breaking her leg January 2020

The power of embracing your community

Getting travelling again after covid

Planning a hiking trip/trek to Nepal

Travel burnout ?

Getting the balance right with travelling 

Travelling in Colombia and dealing with a flash flood while on the Lost City Trail

Planning a future trip to Azores in November (the Hawaii of Europe)

The Overland Track in Tasmania

Dual Pilgrim Status. Hiking in Japan and Spain

How to connect with Erin

Advice from Erin for women who want to do more adventure travel

Why it’s not where you are, buy where you’ve been 

  Social Media

Website: stattrip.com 

Book: Get Lost: Seven Principles for Trekking Life with Grace and Other Life Lessons from Kick-Ass Women’s Adventure Travel 

  Check out this episode!

[lizseyi]

Environmental Service Projects Play A Central Role In RLT Summer Travel Programs - Road Less Traveled

When planning our teen summer programs at The Road Less Traveled (RLT), a strong focus is consistently placed on fostering the utmost commitment to stewardship and environmental service among our participating students.

That focus continues into the work our program participants do “on the ground” to help the communities they visit over the course of our trip. We take great care to ensure our leaders and travelers only ever go to parts of the world where they are genuinely wanted, and where we can help make a meaningful and positive impact.

With an increasing awareness of the threats presented by climate change, it also cannot be understated just how important it is to take care of our precious Earth. With this in mind, teaching environmental stewardship, and taking part in environmental service to protect natural environments, are fundamental to our teen summer programs. 

What environmental service projects could your teen be helping with this summer? 

Through The Road Less Traveled your teen can not only help with important conservation work, but also build connections and gain first hand experience with organizations leading environmental service work. We have a broad range of projects each summer, including some of the below for this year: 

Helping with marine service projects, on the Island of Sardinia on our Italy: Dive the Med trip.

Assisting with ongoing service work to restore natural habitats on the Portuguese island of São Miguel in the Azores

Helping environmental service projects in Turrialba, Costa Rica, in relation to permaculture, composting, and rainwater harvesting 

Cleaning up the beaches and collecting underwater marine debris on our Bali: Coral and Culture trip 

Supporting environmental service projects in British Columbia, Canada, helping with trail maintenance, erosion control, the tackling of invasive species, and the protection of native species. 

The above RLT environmental service projects are just a few of what we offer, that might spark the imagination of your teen as they consider our summer travel programs for 2024. To find out more and check availability, please schedule a call with an RLT director or call us in the office at 773 342 5200.

[cruises-trips-news]

Discover astronomical phenomena on specially-timed sailings to the Azores with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in 2024

The Milky Way, Perseid Meteor Shower and shooting stars; these are just some of the natural phenomena Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ guests will have the chance to see in the night skies during specially-timed sailings to the Azores in 2024. Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are an enchanting archipelago of nine volcanic islands, […] The post Discover astronomical phenomena on specially-timed sailings to the Azores with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in 2024 appeared first on BOAT CRUISES TRIPS NEWS. https://boat-cruises-trips.news-6.com/discover-astronomical-phenomena-on-specially-timed-sailings-to-the-azores-with-fred-olsen-cruise-lines-in-2024/

[renmoldovan]

São Miguel Island, Azores

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[lboogie1906]

Cheryl Renee James (born March 28, 1966) known by her stage name Salt, is a rapper. She is known as a member of the female rap trio Salt-N-Pepa, which includes Pepa (Sandra Denton) and Spinderella (Deidra “Dee Dee” Roper). She starred in The Salt-N-Pepa Show.

The daughter of a transit worker and Barbara James, a bank manager, was born in Brooklyn. She enrolled at Queensborough Community College to study nursing. She met Sandra Denton in 1985 while attending college.

Her boyfriend and co-worker Hurby Azor approached the pair and asked them to record a rap for a class project. They formed the group “Super Nature” and were joined by Latoya Hanson who was replaced by Deidra Roper joined in 1987. They released five studio albums: Hot, Cool & Vicious (1986), A Salt with a Deadly Pepa (1988), Blacks’ Magic (1990), Very Necessary (1993), and Brand New (1997). Salt co-starred in Who’s the Man? In 1997, she recorded the song “Stomp” with gospel artists Kirk Franklin and God’s Property for their album God’s Property, one of the bestselling albums in gospel music history. They were the first female rap act to have gold, platinum, and multi-platinum albums, and the first female rap act to win a Grammy. The group disbanded in 2002 but reformed in 2008.

She appeared on VH1’s inaugural Hip Hop Honors along with Pepa. Salt, Pepa, and Spinderella performed on the second Hip Hop Honors, performing their hit “Whatta Man”. This was the trio’s first performance as Salt-N-Pepa since 1999. On October 23, 2008, Salt-N-Pepa performed “Shoop”, “Push It”, and “Whatta Man” at BET Hip Hop Awards. In 2009, she was featured in the Generation Gospel Exclusive on 106 & Gospel.

She married Gavin Wray (2000), although they dated for ten years before the marriage, and have two children.

She and her daughter are referenced in Tupac’s song “Keep Ya Head Up”. In an interview, she stated she considers herself a feminist “in a way”, emphasizing the need for women to avoid complete emotional and financial dependence on men. She was baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist Church on a mission trip in Ethiopia with Oakwood College. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence #womenhistorymonth

[frank77gld]

São Miguel the Azores! Our second day. 19 th of September. On this day we did a road trip at the left side of the island. We visit many view points! We started from Ponta Delgada going north. Looking around from the view points we could see where we did travel before. Looking back at where you came from can be great! #portugal #Azoren #Azores #saomiguel #Island #viewpoints #uitzichtpunten #roadtrip #MiradourodaLagoadeSantiago #MiradourodaLombadoVasco #ChurchSãoNicolau #SãoNicolau #Church #religion #Setecidades #MiradourodaBocadoInferno #lake #lakeview #nature #naturephotography #photography #travel (bij São Miguel Island) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cjlq9LaDq_e/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[greywhalebaja]

Sailing into Wonder: The Magic of Whale Watching

Embark on a maritime adventure like no other as you delve into the enchanting world of whale watching. This awe-inspiring experience takes you beyond the horizon, where the vastness of the ocean becomes a canvas for the majestic performances of these marine giants.

Whale watching Cabo has evolved from a niche activity to a global phenomenon, attracting nature enthusiasts, photographers, and curious travelers seeking a glimpse of the ocean's most magnificent inhabitants. The allure of witnessing whales in their natural habitat, exhibiting behaviors such as breaching, tail-slapping, and spy-hopping, is a testament to the wonders of the marine world.

Choosing the Right Destination: Selecting the right destination is crucial for a memorable whale watching in Loreto expedition. Coastal regions with diverse marine ecosystems, such as Monterey Bay in California, the Azores in Portugal, or the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, offer prime opportunities to witness different whale species. Researching the migratory patterns and seasons of specific whales helps in planning a trip that maximizes the chances of a close encounter.

A Symphony of Marine Life: While whales take the spotlight, a whale watching excursion often unveils a symphony of marine life. Playful dolphins riding the bow waves, seabirds soaring overhead, and schools of fish dancing beneath the surface contribute to the rich tapestry of the oceanic experience. The interconnectedness of these species highlights the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

Responsible Whale Watching Practices: Responsible whale watching practices are paramount to ensuring the well-being of both whales and their habitats. Reputable tour operators prioritize ethical guidelines that minimize disturbance to the animals, maintaining a respectful distance and adhering to designated viewing regulations. Knowledgeable guides play a pivotal role in educating participants about the importance of conservation efforts and fostering a deeper appreciation for marine life.

The Thrill of the Encounter: As the boat sets sail into open waters, the anticipation builds with each passing wave. The thrill of spotting the telltale spout of a whale or witnessing a breach is an exhilarating moment that lingers in memory. The sheer size and power of these marine giants command respect, creating a connection between humans and the wild beauty of the ocean.

Tips for an Unforgettable Experience: To enhance your whale watching adventure, consider a few tips. Dress in layers to adapt to varying weather conditions, bring binoculars for a closer look, and don't forget sunscreen to protect against the sun's glare off the water. Capturing the magic on camera is a must, but remember to also savor the moment without the lens. Following guidelines from experienced crew members ensures a safe and enjoyable journey.

In conclusion, whale watching is a voyage into wonder, where the rhythmic pulse of the ocean becomes a backdrop for nature's grand spectacle. Sailing into the habitat of these majestic creatures offers a rare glimpse into their world, leaving participants with not just photographs but a profound appreciation for the magic that lies beneath the waves. https://www.greywhale.com/