My hands get cold long before any other part of my body. Even on the hottest of days when riding a motorcycle, I need gloves because the wind on my hands just chills me to the bone. For this reason, I knew that in preparing for the Snowman Trek I’d need really warm gloves since Read More…
Bhutan
Trekking: What the Nepalese could learn from the Bhutanese
You’ve undoubtedly heard about the tragedy on the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal last week where 40+ people died when heavy snow and blizzard conditions unexpectedly hit during prime trekking season. While it’s believed the bodies of all foreigners have been located, local porters and guides are reportedly still missing. Having just returned from the 25-day Read More…
Snowman Trek Time
It’s been a long time in the making (more than a year), but it’s finally time for the Snowman Trek. If you’re just now dropping in, the Snowman Trek is a 25-day, 220-mile trek across the Himalayas in Bhutan. We’ll be as high as 18,200 feet and will be hiking over about 11 passes, many Read More…
North Face Thermoball Jacket ~ WanderGear Wednesday
When it comes to synthetic insulated jackets, apparently all roads lead to The North Face. On my numerous trips to REI and other outdoor retailers to research the best “puffy coat” to bring with me on the Snowman Trek, the sales clerks consistently pointed me toward The North Face and, specifically, the Thermoball. Here’s why… Read More…
Countdown to the Snowman Trek
We depart in 10 days for Bangkok and then onward to Bhutan for the Snowman Trek. Since Jon and I are both going, the house is filled with piles of clothes, gear and food that, hopefully, will fit into four pieces of luggage between the two of us. (Yes, I’m breaking my carry-on bag-only rule Read More…
Prepping for the Snowman Trek
Hopefully by now you know I’m leaving for Bhutan in September to do the Snowman Trek. In brief, the Snowman Trek is a 220 mile, 25-day hike in the Himalayas. At times we’ll be at over 18,000 feet and, during the trek, we’ll be going over numerous passes above 16,000 feet. It’s said that more Read More…
The North Face Verbera Lite Mid GTX Boots ~ WanderGear Wednesday
To call these “Lite” is an understatement. The North Face Verbera Lite Mid GTX Boots are about a pound per shoe (size 8.5). You may never have thought of weighing your shoes before but try it. You likely don’t have any hiking boots that come close to that weight. It’s because of that weight that Read More…
Bhutan. Haven’t Been? Allow Me to Entice You…
It’s kinda hard to go to the Land of Gross National Happiness and not have a good time. The people are kind, humorous, generous and steeped in ancient traditions and culture. Interestingly enough, there are usually lots of tears, too, (good ones, of course) because there’s something about the purity of Bhutan that makes one Read More…
Book a 2014 Bhutan Tour ~ Save 5%
I admit it. The first time someone mentioned Bhutan to me, I had to Google it. I had no idea where it was located. Shortly thereafter, I was leading a tour to the Kingdom. Most people to whom I mention Bhutan, have the same puzzled look that I once had. But with visits from Oprah, Read More…
Join me for the Bhutan Paro Festival!
I truuuuly love Bhutan and its people. It’s a magical destination where very special things happen. For example, during several of tours we’ve run into the royal family, including one where we met and spoke with the King and Queen (the day after their wedding, no less!). Hiking to Tiger’s Nest often brings tears to Read More…