I bobbed in the ocean, sitting on my board, breathing heavy from the paddle out past the break. I already felt like giving up, but my eyes were zeroed in on the horizon, squinting away the sunrise. My brain was on overdrive. This one? Too big. This one? No, wait…maybe…no. This one? No, I can’t […]
Do the Reverse of the Masses: Head East of Denver to the Claremont Inn
In an effort to bring you some new voices on Ottsworld, here is a guest post from writer Sherry Spitsnaugle. I met Sherry at a Denver event and found out that she was a travel writer! So not only does she have a cool name, but she also has a way with words! All opinions, […]
Unique Things To Do in Connemara Ireland
Amanda adjusted the bike seat and explained the gears on the electric bike. As I got ready to peddle off out of Clifden in Connemara, she looked ahead at the dark clouds and asked, “Do you have rain paints?” “No…not really,” I replied looking at my water-resistant pants knowing darn well that resistant and waterproof […]
I’m Ready for my 50’s
For the last 2 months I’ve been referring to myself as 50, even though I’m 49. It’s a weird way that I trick my brain into being comfortable with the age prior to my birthday. I’ve been doing this for years. It was working great – I was at peace with it, I’m 50, no […]
Denver Hikes for Visitors
In an effort to bring you some new voices on Ottsworld, here is a guest post from writer Chris Englert. I met Chris at a party last year and learned that she was an expert on Denver by foot, so of course, I started talking to her about hiking in the area! I’ve asked Chris […]
Kumano Kodo Trail, Japan: A Complete Guide Answering All FAQs
Trees, Trees, Trees. I hiked 6 miles today underneath the shade of these giant Japanese cedar trees. It was a spectacular day of challenge, tranquility, and nature. If you just hike the Kumano Kodo trail you are going to miss out. You have to take the time to stop, sit, and listen to the stillness. […]
Niece Project 4.0 The Decision
From the beginning of the Niece Project it was Allie who always intimidated me. She is my brother’s middle daughter and is like none of my other nieces. I honestly was never sure if she would even want to go anywhere with me, let alone out of the country. She was the one I always […]
Copenhagen Attractions on a Budget
I looked at my bag full of cereal bars and bananas and one thought ran through my mind – “Visiting Copenhagen could be the best way to lose weight ever.” Yes, I know that Copenhagen is known for some of the best restaurants in the world, however, Copenhagen (and all of Scandinavia) is also known […]
Postcard from Astorga Spain
After a lovely break in Carrion de los Condes and getting treated to a scrumptious steak dinner from a retired doctor from Canada, things could only go downhill from there – and they did. Fast forward to me puking in a albergue toilet to begin week 3 of my Camino de Santiago journey . I […]
Using Your Network to Housesit Around the World
I’ve been back ‘home’ in the US for 4 months, yet I’m still living out of two suitcases, changing locations every week, finding unique adventures, and experiencing new things. I’ve been staying on lakes, farms, and in suburbs; watching cats, dogs, chickens, horses, and pipes (so that they wouldn’t freeze); gathering mail, picking up dry […]