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White Water Rafting the Grand Canyon with Western River Expeditions

view at the Nankoweap Granaries When a trip that’s long been on your bucket list finally becomes reality, there’s a mix of excitement and, in this case, a bit of trepidation. That’s how I felt as I launched from Lee’s Ferry on a seven-day, 188-mile rafting

Namibia Safari Adventures: From Desert Elephants to Deadvlei Trees

Desert-adapted elephant – Inhabiting the rugged landscape of northern Namibia, desert-adapted elephants have unique physical traits and specific behaviors that have evolved to thrive in a desert environment. From the Martian-like landscapes of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei to the harsh Skeleton Coast, characterized by wind, sand dunes,

Travel to the French Riviera – Episode 949

Hear about travel to the French Riviera as the Amateur Traveler talks to travel writer and children’s book author Kimberley Lovato about this region where she has had a pied-à-terre for years. Why should you go to the French Riviera? Kimberley says, “Certainly for people who

A Ryokan Experience – Staying in a Traditional Japanese Hotel

Japan’s rural inns offer far more than a bed for the night—they’re an immersion into the heart of Japanese hospitality, culture, and cuisine. On a recent walking tour through the Kunisaki Peninsula with Walk Japan, I stayed in three different onsen inns (or ryokan), and each

Espírito Santo, Brazil – Episode 948

Hear about travel to Espírito Santo, Brazil, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Fuse from Fuse Travels about her family’s homeland. Why should you travel to Espírito Santo? Fuse says, “It is way more affordable than Rio, just as pretty, as far as beaches. It is

New Zealand Great Walks – More Travel #8

Hear about New Zealand Great Walks as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jonty Crane from jontynz.com about these amazing multi-day treks in his home country. Picture snow-capped mountains, volcanic landscapes, brilliant blue alpine lakes, epic coastal scenery, unusual native birds, wilderness as far as the eye

How to Spend an Adventurous Weekend in Denver, Colorado

  Big Blue Bear outside the Colorado Convention Center   The Christensens first came to Colorado in the 1800s, so I have deep roots in the state, but I don’t get to the capital of Denver as often as I would like. Having just spent a

Fun things to do in Sacramento for Couples

As a nerdy kid who grew up in California, I first visited Sacramento as part of a live government class in the summer after 6th grade. Not to disparage my wonderful classmates from that experience, but I found Sacramento even more fun to visit with my

Travel to Brunei and Sabah on Borneo – Episode 947

Hear about travel to Brunei and Sabah on the island of Borneo as the Amateur Traveler talks to Max Walton about his recent trip to these contrasting locations. Why should you go to Brunei and Sabah? Max says, “It’s one of the least visited regions in

The Best Destinations for Safari with Kids – Wild Junket

Last Updated on May 28, 2025 From spotting towering giraffes to tracking lion paw prints, safaris are a thrilling adventure for the whole family. Here’s our pick of the best destinations for safari with kids. Africa has a special place in my heart — it’s my