The Big 15 and More Reasons to Visit the Enchanted Galápagos Islands

Welcome to the extraordinary world of the Galápagos Islands, a paradise for nature lovers. Visiting the Galápagos is a chance to experience nature nearly untouched by humans. Hike in the morning on a "young" volcanic island, with very little vegetation, and snorkel in the afternoon in one of the richest marine environments on Earth. Come … Continue reading The Big 15 and More Reasons to Visit the Enchanted Galápagos Islands

Undercover Birding: how to enjoy birdwatching while traveling with friends

Traveling with friends can be a great experience. However, if you're an avid birdwatcher, you might find it challenging to pursue your hobby in a packed itinerary. But fear not! With a little creativity and planning, you can still indulge in your love for birdwatching without compromising the group's travel plans. In this post, I … Continue reading Undercover Birding: how to enjoy birdwatching while traveling with friends

How to Enjoy Authentic and Ethical Animal Tourism (2022)

When we were planning our first safari in 2014, I found many tour groups offering a "Walk With Lions" experience in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The brochures stated that these were young lions, likely orphans, and that the organization would reintroduce them to the wild when they matured. This sounded great! But the more I read … Continue reading How to Enjoy Authentic and Ethical Animal Tourism (2022)

5 Best Reasons to Visit Costa Rica: Pura Vida Ecotourism

Costa Rica has been on my travel wish list for years. In fact it was so high on the list that we’d considered moving to the country even though we'd never visited. What's so special about Costa Rica? Read about this beautiful country and our reasons to visit Costa Rica and you’ll understand… Costa Rica … Continue reading 5 Best Reasons to Visit Costa Rica: Pura Vida Ecotourism

Dreaming of an East African Safari? Tips on Kenya and Tanzania

I was six years old when the book Born Free was published. A year later, though just a beginning reader, I worked my way through the book, enthralled by the images of Joy Adamson and the lioness Elsa. You can imagine my thrill when Born Free, the award winning movie was released. Images of Kenya … Continue reading Dreaming of an East African Safari? Tips on Kenya and Tanzania

Birds of the African Savanna: how to birdwatch on safari

People travel to Africa to see extraordinary animals - lions, leopards, and elephants. What can be overlooked are the spectacular birds that are seen on safari. Watching the flight of the colorful lilac-breasted roller can be as enjoyable for bird lovers as watching elephants at a watering hole. What birds to expect on safari varies … Continue reading Birds of the African Savanna: how to birdwatch on safari

The Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi: an ethical animal experience

The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a true bright spot in the struggle to save the elephants of East Africa. And one of the best places to visit for ethical animal tourism. When my husband surprised me with a safari in Tanzania, I added in a day in Kenya to visit the extraordinary Nairobi elephant orphanage. … Continue reading The Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi: an ethical animal experience