Travel guides: adventure holidays Books

Book SynopsisAs heard on NPR's This American Life“Absorbing . . . Though it's non-fiction, The Feather Thief contains many of the elements of a classic thriller.” —Maureen Corrigan, NPR’s Fresh Air“One of the most peculiar and memorable true-crime books ever.” —Christian Science MonitorFrom the author of The Fishermen and the Dragon, a rollicking true-crime adventure and a captivating journey into an underground world of fanatical fly-tiers and plume peddlers, for readers of The Stranger in the Woods, The Lost City of Z, and The Orchid Thief.On a cool June evening in 2009, after performing a concert at London's Royal Academy of Music, twenty-year-old American flautist Edwin Rist boarded a train for a suburban outpost of the British Museum of Natural History. Home to one of the largest ornithological collections in the world, the Tring museum was full o

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Book SynopsisThe relationship between man and horse on the Eurasian steppe gave rise to a succession of rich nomadic cultures. Among them were the Mongols of the thirteenth century â a small tribe, which, under the charismatic leadership of Genghis Khan, created the largest contiguous land empire in history. Inspired by the extraordinary life nomads still lead today, Tim Cope embarked on a journey that hadnât been successfully completed since those times: to travel on horseback across the entire length of the Eurasian steppe, from Karakorum, the ancient capital of Mongolia, through Kazakhstan, Russia, Crimea and the Ukraine to the Danube River in Hungary. From horse-riding novice to travelling three years and 10,000 kilometres on horseback, accompanied by his dog Tigon, Tim learnt to fend off wolves and would-be horse-thieves, and grapple with the extremes of the steppe as he crossed sub-zero plateaux, the scorching deserts of Kazakhstan and the high-mountain passes of the Carpathians. Along the waTrade ReviewTim Cope is a wise young man who knows how to travel, and why, and which details to record for the delight and enlightenment of his readers. I suspect that here we have a classic, likely to inspire generations yet unborn * Dervla Murphy *Tim Cope’s exploration across the continents on horseback grew into a quest through history and then an odyssey deep into the human heart. In exploring some of the most remote places on earth, he brings us back to ourselves and to a better understanding of our place in the world today * Jack Weatherford, author of Genghis Khan: And the Making of the Modern World *Three years, 10,000km and -30°C temperatures: Tim Cope’s horseback traverse of the Eurasian Steppe - Mongolia to Hungary - is full of hardship, characters and insights ... It’s a big undertaking for readers too, but it opens up a vast, little-trodden world of history, danger and adventure * Wanderlust *It is the ultimate boy’s own adventure. In an epic 6,000 mile journey on horseback, lasting for more than three gruelling years, Tim Cope braved dangers, scorching deserts, subzero mountain temperatures and some of the world’s most inhospitable terrain. Most of us would not survive even a day in the windswept wilderness and wolf-infested plateaux of Mongolia and Kazakhstan, but Cope was determined to follow a childhood dream * Dalya Alberge, Sunday Times *One of the most vibrant and engaging narrators you might find ... It is a vast journey enjoyably meandering in an age of Twitter soundbites ... By turns informative, gripping and very moving: a major endeavour, which flings off the straightjacket of its sub-genre and stands (or rides) alone * Joanna Kavenna, Spectator *Reading On The Trail, it is impossible to not get swept up in Tim's infectious sense of adventure. His story is an amazing one, but he also approaches it in such a way that you'll think that it might be possible for you to attempt an epic adventure of your own. That's the kind of inspiration that Tim creates through his writing * TheAdventureBlog *New book inspires Mongolia visits: Intrepid travellers looking for destinations that are genuinely off the beaten track have been inspired by a new book by the Australian adventurer Tim Cope in which he describes a journey by horseback following in the steps of the legendary Genghis Khan * Adrian Bridge, Daily Telegraph *This great journey gives the lie to any notion that the world is too much known. It's an astonishing feat of courage and imagination, travelling in its own rich dimension - of nomad history and the horse. * Colin Thubron *Tim Cope is a beautiful explorer — by which I mean that he explores beautiful places, but also that he does it beautifully. This is a young man possessed of extraordinary courage, but also great sensitivity and respect. His writing, like his journeys, speaks to a heightened soul, operating at its highest potential. He is an inspiration to me and I believe he will be an inspiration for many. To anyone who believes that there are no worlds left to be discovered, I offer up the evidence of this magnificent tale * Elizabeth Gilbert *

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Book SynopsisKnit a traditional gansey sweater with indigo yarn. Tour a spinning mill. Discover five ways to cast on for socks. Meet your personal knitting hero. The Knitter’s Life List is a richly illustrated compilation of 1,001 experiences and adventures that devout knitters won’t want to miss. You’ll find classic techniques to master, time-honored patterns to try, unusual yarns to work with, museums to see, books to read, and much more. Get inspired and live the knitting life of your dreams!

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Book SynopsisForge your own path through the rock arches, canyon-carving rivers, and ever-present ancient cultures of Southeastern Utah with Moon Arches & Canyonlands National Parks. Inside you'll find:* Flexible Itineraries: Unique and adventure-packed ideas for day trips to each park, road trips, and more* The Best Hikes in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks: Detailed trail descriptions, mileage and elevation gains, and backpacking options* Experience the Outdoors: Climb dramatic stone bridges and slickrock bluffs to Delicate Arch, and find the perfect spot for a red rock photo-op. Join a ranger-led hike through Arches' Fiery Furnace, or a half-day rafting tour down the Colorado River. Hike to mesa-top vistas, cycle through high-desert canyons, and explore countless backcountry trails. Visit the Ancestral Puebloan preservation at Hovenweep National Monument, and enjoy a couple microbrews with locals in Moab* How to Get There: Up-to-date information on gateway towns, park entrances, park fees, and tours* Where to Stay: Spend a night in a riverfront lodge, or sleep under the stars with campgrounds, resorts, and more both inside and outside the park* Planning Tips: When to go, what to pack, safety information, and how to avoid the crowds, with full-colour photos and easy-to-use maps throughout* Expertise and know-how from seasoned explorers W.C. McRae and Judy Jewell Find your adventure with Moon Arches & Canyonlands National Parks.Exploring more of Utah's natural wonders? Try Moon Zion & Bryce. For full coverage of America's national parks, check out Moon USA National Parks: The Complete Guide to All 62 National Parks.About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell-and they can't wait to share their favorite places with you.For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.

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Book SynopsisEndless stretches of golden sand, legendary surf, and epic outdoor experiences: Discover the spirit of aloha with Moon Maui. Inside you'll find:* Flexible itineraries, from your best day in each region to a week-long Maui adventure, with coverage of neighbouring islands Moloka'i and Lana'i* Strategic advice for backpackers, beach-lovers, adventurers, honeymooners, families, wellness-seekers, and more* Outdoor adventures like kayaking, hiking, and scuba-diving, plus the best beaches for swimming, surfing, and snorkelling* Top activities and unique experiences: Drive the famous 30-mile Road to Hana or bike through misty hidden valleys. Hike through thick bamboo forests to thundering waterfalls or to the top of a dormant volcano. Snorkel with giant green sea turtles, learn how to catch the perfect wave, or embark on a whale-watching tour. Soak up the electric energy of Front Street in Lahaina, unwind at a luxurious spa, or relax on the sand and watch the sunset with a mai tai in hand* The best local flavours: Chow down on fresh fish tacos from a food truck, savour Polynesian cuisine, or try handcrafted pineapple vodka at a local distillery* Expert insight from Maui local Greg Archer on how to experience the island like an insider, support local and sustainable businesses, avoid crowds, and respectfully engage with the culture* Full-colour photos and detailed maps throughout* Background information on Maui's landscape, wildlife, history, festivals, and cultural customs* Handy tools including a Hawaiian phrasebook, packing suggestions, health and safety information, and travel tips for travellers with disabilities, LGBTQ travellers, travellers of colour, and families with kids With Moon's practical tips and local know-how, you can experience the best of Maui.About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell-and they can't wait to share their favorite places with you.For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.

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Book SynopsisUltimate Cycling Trips: World features 35 handpicked destinations for the best slow travel on two wheels. Including detailed descriptions, suggested itineraries, maps, photos and even interviews with world cyclists, Ultimate Cycling Trips: World is the perfect guide for planning your own cycling adventure. There are trips to suit every fitness level, from riding through the Italian and French Riviera, to Canada’s wildlife-rich Icefields Parkway, and the volcanic island of Jeju off the southern tip of South Korea.   As we grow more anxious about our planet, author Andrew Bain offers cycling trips as one way to minimise our environmental impact while on holiday. If that wasn’t enough, there are also the added benefits of improving your fitness and becoming more immersed in your surroundings. Now has never been a better time to see the world by bike, with Ultimate Cycling Trips: World.

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Book SynopsisThis exciting, inspiring and informative guide is perfect for anyone who loves a challenge and an adventure. There are soaring ridgelines to run, exciting river descents to swim, secret coves to explore by boat, and achievable interesting scrambles, all in stunning locations. Each of the 150 featured adventures, which are arranged by geographical region, has been carefully chosen for being exhilarating, achievable by any reasonably active person, and as safe as possible. You’ll be taken on a tour of the country and discovering where to do things you never thought possible in the UK – exploring the caves and creeks of Cornwall by kayak, sleeping under the stars surrounded by the towering mountains of the Cuillin Ridge, or swimming in the faery pools at Glen Brittle on Skye. The Adventurer’s Guide to Britain puts together some of the very best experiences from the different worlds of adventure sport, to create the ultimate outdoor bible for those who love getting outside, challenging themselves and exploring beautiful Britain.Trade ReviewAn informative, inspiring guide exploring more than 150 different things to do across the UK. * People's Friend *

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Book SynopsisBeneath our feet is a secret world – and you can visit it. The 50 underground adventures featured in this book are not just for intrepid potholers and other daredevils. Hidden beneath Britain are plenty of attractions open to everyone. This is the definitive guide to the best days out underground. From caves to nuclear bunkers, sewers to secret railways, as well as abandoned mines, ancient crypts and labyrinthine tunnels, these unique tourist attractions are a journey through Britain’s hidden history going back thousands of years. Travel writer Peter Naldrett explores each location with evocative, light-hearted text that reveals the fascinating history of why it came to be constructed, or how it was first discovered. As well as information about facilities and accessibility, Peter also includes essential advice about how to get there and when to go. There are atmospheric full colour photographs throughout, and boxes that highlight precisely why you should visit, as well as things to look out for when you do. Days Out Underground has something to excite everyone, especially families – here's how you entertain the kids on those wet-weather weekends!Trade ReviewEven hardened cave explorers will find something of interest when they find themselves in a different part of the country on a rainy day. * Descent magazine *

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Book Synopsis'The bible for polar planning' Conrad Dickinson, polar explorer'The perfect resource', Bear GryllsWritten by seasoned adventurer Tim Moss, and with input from over 50 SIR RANULPH FIENNES different explorers, this book takes you through the details of each challenge or journey. If you're rowing an ocean where do you sleep at night? How do you go to the loo at sea? If you're cycling round the world precisely what difficulties will you face and how will you overcome them? From armchair adventurer to those simply looking for practical advice, this book is aimed at anyone who's ever dreamed of doing something BIG! This book will tell you how to: - Row an ocean - Get to the North Pole - Cross a desert - Sail the seven seas - Cycle around the world - Get to the South Pole - Climb an unclimbed mountainContents: Introduction; General Notes on Expeditions; Common Equipment; Raising the Funds for an Expedition; Final Notes; 1. How to Cross a Desert; 2. How to Get to the North Pole; 3. How to Row an Ocean; 4. How to Cycle Around the World; 5. How to Sail the Seven Seas; 6. How to Get to the South Pole; 7. How to Climb an Unclimbed Mountain; Did I Miss Something?, One Tiny Step; Acknowledgements; Glossary.Trade ReviewThe bible for polar planning. -- Conrad Dickinson, polar explorerThe perfect resource. -- Bear GryllsTable of ContentsIntroduction; General Notes on Expeditions; Common Equipment; Raising the Funds for an Expedition; Final Notes; 1. How to Cross a Desert; 2. How to Get to the North Pole; 3. How to Row an Ocean; 4. How to Cycle Around the World; 5. How to Sail the Seven Seas; 6. How to Get to the South Pole; 7. How to Climb an Unclimbed Mountain; Did I Miss Something?, One Tiny Step; Acknowledgements; Glossary.

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Book SynopsisEduard Fischer takes us on an exploration of myth, art, science, and the sacred space of high mountains. This is an account of adventure and deep reflection accompanied by a selection of the author's stunning colour photographs.After first visiting the Trans-Himalayan region of Ladakh in 1985, he returned again and again, seeking to catch a glimpse of the phantom of the Himalayas - the elusive snow leopard. During these visits he became enthralled with the unique culture of this ancient mountain kingdom, one of the oldest enclaves of Buddhism. The phantom cat itself becomes, at turns, Eduard's quarry, nemesis, obsession, and finally, in a surprising twist of destiny, his teacher.Table of ContentsIntroduction. Part 1. Dancing with Kali. The Reprieve. The Roof of the World. Why India?. The Watch. Beowulf and the Scooter. On the Ridge. Some Things I know about Cats. The Legacy of the Leopard. The Snow Leopard and the Bharal. The Fury. The Dream. Ahab and Coyote. Shiva's Cave. Sacred Space. The Companion. The Punk Monk. Toward the Ganda La. The Return to Adventure. Dreamtime. The Marka River Crossing. Salzburg. Hankar. Down the Valley. Adrian, Noëlie, and Nathalie. The Scholar. The Hunt. The Parikshit Palace. Rishikesh. Part 2. The Return. The Gongmaru La. Sunrise. Part 3. Chasing the Light. Facing the Dragon. Shiva's Drum. Conversations with Stanzin. The Summit. Awakening. Index.

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Book SynopsisThe world's highest mountain has lured visitors from all over the world ever since its discovery. Attempting its summit is dangerous and requires special skills and experience, but the trek to its Base Camp in Nepal can be completed by well-prepared walkers of any age - safely and enjoyably. The views from the route are breath-taking, and the trek is punctuated by intriguing Buddhist monuments and monasteries. In the aftermath of the earthquakes in April/May 2015, Nepal needs trekkers more than ever. The authors focus on the popular route from Lukla to Base Camp, and also cover the trek to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes with the challenging option to link the two valleys over the Cho La. They provide background on Sherpa culture and religion and on wildlife and geology. There's a wealth of practical information on preparation, including how to prevent and manage altitude sickness. This award-winning guidebook contains everything you need to plan and enjoy your trek: details of each section showing trekking time and altitude gain/loss; how to choose a tour operator; background on Nepal, Sherpa culture, geology and wildlife; nine pages of detailed mapping at 1:50,000 of all trekking routes; lavishly illustrated, with over 90 colour photographs; rucksack-friendly, weatherproof format. Trade Review"Packing in as much information in its 80 pages as many books will bloat out over 200 ..."; Judges' comment, OWPG Award for Excellence guidebook winner, October 2016; "The guide is well illustrated, easy to navigate and dip in and out of depending what you are looking for and written in an easy to understand style. Profits from the sale of the book are being donated to Mountain People, a charity that helps the people of Nepal help themselves."; Reviewed by Scotland Outdoors 2016 page 23, which nominated it as "Our favourite"; "The contents are very well organised with quite detailed information on a number of background topics in the first half to help you plan your trip and to help you better understand the cultures and practices in Nepal and in the the Solu Khumbu. The sections on Buddhism and on altitude effects and Acute Mountain Sickness seem particularly comprehensive from my perspective as somebody who lived in Nepal for five years, and are very readable. Overall, another excellent guide from Rucksack Readers, with an impressive amount of information in its 80 pages, all very accessible."; Patrick O'Sullivan, Editor, Irish Mountain Log, Autumn 2016 page 64

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Book SynopsisReady for a trip to the "end of the world"? Patagonia stands for infinite and awe-inspiring landscapes, glistening glaciers and majestic peaks. Exclusively for the CURVES magazine, photographer Stefan Bogner explored the most beautiful scenic roads of this unique area. Marvellous aerial views show exciting routes right in the middle of nowhere. No matter whether you’re driving casually through the wild steppe in your caravan or prefer the thrills of winding roads with breathtaking views: The extraordinary nature experience makes your trip most certainly an unforgettable journey. - Patagonia: Pictures of an overwhelming landscape you have never seen like this before - The loveliest routes and loneliest mountain roads: with maps for route planning - Unique driving experience on endless roads: for tours by car, motorbike, and caravaning - Exquisite recommendations: Patagonia‘s best hotels and sights - CURVES – the passion for lovely curves: an exceptional mix of travelogue and illustrated book Delightful driving on the world’s most beautiful roads: Patagonia for individualists. Mountain passes with a view, matchless mountain panoramas and vast untouched plateaus: the characteristic landscape at the south end of Chile and Argentina is full of highlights. "Soulful Driving" is Stefan Bogners‘ motto for leisurely road trips, where you set the pace. To top this off, he recommends comfortable accommodation, fine restaurants and sights worth seeing. Enjoy the airflow and find out where armadillos and guanacos bid good night: With CURVES Patagonia you will explore and fall in love with scenic roads and find the best tips for tours on two or four wheels. Text in English and German.

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Book SynopsisIn this captivating new guide Roger Naylor features all twenty-seven of Arizona's state-designated scenic and historic roads, including five National Scenic Byways. The stunning drives are arranged by region and include starting and ending points, mileage, maps, photos, full descriptions, and suggestions on locally owned places to eat and sleep.

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Book SynopsisThe definitive guide for families of all ages to experiencing the natural splendors of Colorado. Whether you are planning your first family adventure or you are an experienced outdoors family, Heather Mundt provides everything parents, grandparents, children, and teenagers need to know to enjoy activities throughout the state.Table of Contents Preface Acknowledgments Introduction How to Use This Guide About Colorful Colorado Suggested Itineraries Colorado's Ski Areas Colorado's Fourteeners Colorado's State Parks The Great West Fraser Granby Grand Lake Kremmling Moffat County North Park Steamboat Springs Winter Park Mountains and Mesas Crested Butte Durango Fruita Grand Junction Gunnison Mesa Verde Country Montrose Ouray Pagosa Springs Silverton Telluride Rockies Playground Arapahoe Basin Aspen Beaver Creek Resort Breckenridge Copper Mountain Georgetown Glenwood Springs Keystone Resort Leadville Loveland Ski Area South Park Summit County Vail Denver and Cities of the Rockies Boulder Denver Estes Park Fort Collins Golden Idaho Springs Longmont Loveland Morrison Pikes Peak Wonders Buena Vista Cañon City Colorado Springs Cripple Creek Manitou Springs Pueblo Salida Wet Mountain Valley Mystic San Luis Valley Alamosa Creede Del Norte Monte Vista Saguache County South Fork Spanish Peaks Country Pioneering Plains Fort Morgan Sterling Canyons and Plains Comanche National Grassland La Junta Lamar Trinidad Tarantulas Glossary Index About the Author

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Book SynopsisWhether you’re planning your first family adventure or you’re a seasoned pro, Arizona Family Outdoor Adventure is the definitive guide for families exploring the Grand Canyon State.Trade ReviewChels Knorr delivers both inspiration and practical advice for outdoor travel from a parent who has been there. Arizona Family Outdoor Adventure will quickly become your essential guide to trip planning and memory making in the Grand Canyon State." —Ashley M. Biggers, author of Eco-Travel New Mexico: 86 Natural Destinations, Green Hotels, and Sustainable Adventures

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Book SynopsisThis collection of travel-inspired essays takes us across four continents to fifteen countries, showing us what not to do when traveling. Trade Review"In this collection of essays, Roberts recounts her adventures while traveling mostly solo to 15 countries. Along the way she navigates mishaps both large and small, from a dangerous mudslide in Peru to a tricky romantic entanglement in Greece. Each experience offers a chance to probe her inner 'bad tourist,' as she wrestles with issues of privilege, cultural blind spots, and her own insecurities on a journey to self-discovery."—National Geographic"Replete with harrowing and laugh out loud accounts of misadventures at home and abroad, Suzanne Roberts’s Bad Tourist collects entertaining stories from around the world. . . . Authentic, surprising, and irresistible, Bad Tourist is a travel text worth getting lost in."—Foreword Reviews"Roberts has spent decades circling the globe, chasing experience, understanding, and identity. This book is the culmination of her young adulthood on the move."—Courtney Eathorne, Booklist"This would be a good pick for anyone that loves travel, misses traveling in these days of quarantine, or would like something different. This is a collection of love stories to old friends, lovers, her mother, new friends from her travels, discovered lands and cultures, and to herself."—alissacmiles.com"Named Next Great Travel Writer by National Geographic’s Traveler, Roberts handily fits the distinction with memories, images, and insights that put readers in the seat beside her or hiking up a too-close-for-comfort volcanic slope—all the while providing a sort of anti-guidebook unapologetically illustrating what not to do."—Donna McCrohan Rosenthal, News Review"A fast-paced, smart and very enjoyable book."—Melissa Oliveira, Hippocampus Magazine“I love travel, armchair and otherwise, so I knew it would be a pleasure letting Suzanne Roberts take me around the world on a shoestring, from India’s Grand Elephant Festival, to the steppes of Mongolia on the trail of Genghis Khan, to the cool tiles of another one-star bathroom wondering if this would be the time she’d puke herself to death. Even more satisfying are her honesty, courage, and eventual clarity as she tackles her own understories—family dysfunction and alcoholism, internalized misogyny, and what the climate catastrophe means for the travel addicted among us—combining these essays into a thoroughly relatable journey of the heart.”—Pam Houston, author of Deep Creek: Finding Hope in the High Country“If Michel de Montaigne and Chelsea Handler could get together in a bar in some far-flung part of the world and get good and drunk, they might dream up a book like this. This is not your parents’ travel writing! If you’re thirsting for a literary triple shot of sex, booze, and misadventures, Bad Tourist is your passport to a trip you won’t want to come home from.”—Michael P. Branch, author of Rants from the Hill and How to Cuss in Western“Bad Tourist makes beautiful the absurdity and heartbreak accompanying us whenever we leave home. Roberts’s intimate, fiercely honest narrative voice imbues these realities with grace and demonstrates just how much is to be gained by living a life in the present tense.”—Kathryn Miles, author of Quakeland: On the Road to America’s Next Devastating Earthquake“These thoughtful, hilarious, lusty essays will either have you renewing your passport or blowtorching it for good. Suzanne Roberts may be a bad tourist, but she’s one hell of a great writer.”—Gayle Brandeis, author of The Art of MisdiagnosisTable of ContentsSIGHTS The Love Test Scared Shitless My Mother Is My Wingman Three Hours to Burn a Body SLEEPING Hotel Cádiz Loving the Lie The Call of the Coquí Fourteen One-Night Stands EATING AND DRINKING Gone Missing One Degree of Separation The Peruvian Blackout One Hundred Boyfriends SPAS AND BEAUTY TREATMENTS Prague and the Unbearable Lousiness of the Tourist Stretching the Thigh Fat Bellagio People Knowing the Words by Heart ACTIVITIES Skiing the Fall Line The Illuminations Mating Season Jungle Love Bargaining, or the Third Stage of Grief FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS In Search of Genghis Khan Odds Are The Grand Elephant Festival Coming of Age in the Guna Yala Islands GETTING THERE AND AWAY Dangerous for a Woman Alone A Wee Scottish Tour Scary Flyer El Borracho DANGERS AND ANNOYANCES The Riffraff in the Magical Kingdom Middle-Aged Vagabonding Sassy at Burning Man Hiking Home Acknowledgments Source Acknowledgments

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Book SynopsisSpace Age Adventures is a guidebook that recounts short entertaining stories from spaceflight history and details more than one hundred adventurous sites across the United States, including air and space museums, outdoor astronaut training locations, and historic destinations for space enthusiasts.Trade Review“Part travel guidebook and part history lesson, anyone with even a passing interest in space will appreciate this resource. Mike Bezemek has created a long-needed and well-organized reference for planning trips to space-themed destinations in the United States. I had no idea all these places existed and appreciate how the included stories reference artifacts or displays that can be visited in person. Well done!”—Jay Gallentine, author of Infinity Beckoned: Adventuring through the Inner Solar System, 1969–1989“Mike Bezemek shows that the next best thing to a flight into space is visiting the many places on Earth related to space exploration. In addition to sharing the exciting stories behind the museum artifacts, Space Age Adventures takes readers to launch sites, astronomical observatories, and space museums around the United States. His work has provided me with lots of new ideas for space places to visit in the years to come.”—Chris Gainor, author of To a Distant Day: The Rocket PioneersTable of ContentsPreface: Spaces Sites and Stories Becoming a Space Age Adventurer Using This Book and Must-See Sites 1. The First Rockets 2. Birth of the Space Rocket 3. The V-2 Sites in Washington DC and Virginia Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington DC Smithsonian Stephen F. Udvar-Hazy Center, Chantilly VA NASA Goddard Visitor Center, Greenbelt MD NASA Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center, Wallops Island VA Virginia Air and Space Science Center, Hampton VA 4. The Cold War 5. Conquering Space 6. The Satellites Sites in New York City and the Northeast Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, New York NY American Museum of Natural History, New York NY Cradle of Aviation Museum, Garden City NY McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, Concord NH Moonshot Museum, Pittsburgh PA Carnegie Science Center, Pittsburgh PA 7. The Space Race 8. Mercury vs. Vostok 9. In the Thick of It Sites Near Cape Canaveral, Florida Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Merritt Island FL Sands Space History Center, Cape Canaveral FL American Space Museum, Titusville FL 10. The Rise of Apollo 11. Adventures and Lessons 12. A Focus on the Moon Sites in the South and on the Gulf Coast Museum of Life and Science, Durham NC Tellus Science Museum, Cartersville GA U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Huntsville AL National Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola FL Infinity Science Center and NASA Stennis Visitor Center, Pearlington MS Space Center Houston, Houston TX Frontiers of Flight Museum, Dallas TX SpaceX Starbase Launch Viewing, South Padre Island TX 13. Bold Steps and Tragic Setbacks 14. Closing In 15. Around the Moon Sites in the Midwest Great Lakes Science Center and NASA Glenn Visitor Center, Cleveland OH International Women’s Air and Space Museum, Cleveland OH National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Dayton OH Armstrong Air & Space Museum, Wapakoneta OH Grissom Memorial at Spring Mill State Park, Mitchell IN Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Experience, Kalamazoo MI Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago IL Adler Planetarium, Chicago IL St. Louis Science Center, St. Louis MO 16. 1969 17. They Came from Outer Space 18. The Landings Continue Sites in the Great Plains Stafford Air and Space Museum, Weatherford OK Science Museum Oklahoma, Oklahoma City OK Cosmosphere Space Museum, Hutchison KS Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, Ashland NE South Dakota Air and Space Museum, Box Elder SD 19. The End of the Space Race 20. Aiming for the Stars 21. The Soviets Regroup Sites in the Southwest New Mexico Museum of Space History, Alamogordo NM White Sands Missile Range Museum and Missile Park, White Sands NM Spaceport America, Truth or Consequences NM Roswell Museum and International UFO Museum & Research Center, Roswell NM 000 Very Large Array, Socorro NM New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, Albuquerque NM National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, Albuquerque NM Space Foundation Discovery Center, Colorado Springs CO Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, Denver CO Space and Science Fiction Sites, Southern Utah Meteor Crater, Winslow AZ Lowell Observatory, Flagstaff AZ Astronaut Training Sites, Northern Arizona Pima Air and Space Museum, Tucson AZ Titan Missile Museum, Green Valley AZ National Atomic Testing Museum and Nevada National Security Site, Las Vegas NV000 Extraterrestrial Highway, Highway 375 NV 22. Adventures in Orbit 23. Destination Deep Space 24. The Billionaires’ Space Race Sites on the West Coast San Diego Air and Space Museum, San Diego CA California Science Center, Los Angeles CA Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles CA More Space Sites, Southern California Science Fiction Film Sites, California Chabot Space and Science Center, Oakland CA USS Hornet Sea, Air, and Space Museum, Alameda CA Aerospace Museum of California, Sacramento CA Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum, McMinnville OR Museum of Flight, Seattle WA Appendix of Resources Bibliography

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Book SynopsisUndertaking a Big Year requires a more extreme version of planning than what is needed to bird in a typical year. In a Big Year a birder is trying to see or hear new birds every day, day after day, throughout the whole year.The first woman to complete a North American Big Year (continental United States and Canada) and identify over 700 species, Lynn E. Barber clocked more than 175,000 miles and ticked off a then record setting 723 species over twelve months in 2008. Yet even as an anomaly - a female birder in the then male-dominated world of competitive birding - she took the initiative to reimagine the whole idea of a Big Year in the two biggest states in the country.At home in both Texas and Alaska, Barber offers an inside look into how to plan, execute, and thoroughly enjoy a year of finding the birds that inhabit two of the nation's most diverse landscapes. The drastic differences between the climate, geography, plant life, and habitat at the far northern and southern edges of the US mainland mean seeing a distinct number of birds in each state that are not found in the other. Yet as states with both coastal and international boundaries, Texas and Alaska provide countless opportunities to see the most seasonally varied, far flying, and specifically adapted birds in the world.As Barber chronicles her travels throughout the Texan and Alaskan landscapes, serious and casual birders alike will appreciate her lively and informative prose and commitment to her distinct approach to the Big Year challenge.

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Book SynopsisBeautifully illustrated, this best-of compendium features the most memorable one-day hikes in every region of the United States from Sierra Buttes Lookout in Tahoe National Forest to Grinnell Glacier Trail in Montana's Glacier National Park to Giant Mountain in Adirondack Park and beyond. Organized by region, this guide goes into detail about what makes each hike so remarkable and why it might be worth a detour or even a special journey for someone looking to broaden their horizons. All of the hikes are doable during daylight hours and none require camping. America’s Best Day Hikes comes with all the information anyone would need to experience these unique locations, including details about the hike itself—difficulty, duration, seasonal hazards, and more.—as well as traveling, planning, and packing suggestions. All this paired with Derek Dellinger’s stunning photography makes this incredible volume a must-have for any lover of the outdoors.

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Book SynopsisA timely and provocative book that shows us that the Asian Century isn’t as new as we think it is.A million Australians went to Bali last year, following the millions of others who have made their way across Asia over the past century.Many travellers returned thinking they knew Asia – and their personal experiences helped shape popular attitudes. This absorbing book unpacks their experiences, showing how their encounters changed the way Australians thought about Asia.

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Book SynopsisA stunning debut; a Departures original publication. The ultimate survival story; a wild ride—the wildest—down a South American river in the thick of the Amazon Basin; a true and thrilling adventure of a young married couple who survive a plane crash only to later raft hundreds of miles across Peru and Bolivia, ending up in a channel to nowhere, a dead end so flooded there is literally no land to stand on. Their raft—a mere four logs—separates them from the piranha-and-caiman-infested water until they finally realize that there is no way out but to swim. Vintage Original. Holly FitzGerald and her husband, Fitz—married less than two years—set out on a yearlong honeymoon adventure of a lifetime, backpacking around the world. Five months into the trip their plane crash lands in Peru at a penal colony walled in by jungle, and their blissfully romantic journey turns into a terrifying nonstop labyrinth of escape and survival. On a sm

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Book SynopsisNATIONAL BESTSELLER • From the author of To Shake the Sleeping Self . . . “Exquisitely written and completely compelling . . . As Jedidiah Jenkins traces a 5,000-mile route with his wildly entertaining mother, Barb, he begins to untangle the live wires of a parent-child bond and to wrestle with a love that hurts.”—Suleika Jaouad, author of Between Two Kingdoms LAMBDA LITERARY AWARD FINALISTWhen his mother, Barbara, turns seventy, Jedidiah Jenkins is reminded of a sobering truth: Our parents won’t live forever. For years, he and Barbara have talked about taking a trip together, just the two of them. They disagree about politics, about God, about the project of society—disagreements that hurt. But they love thrift stores, they love eating at diners, they love true crime, and they love each other. Jedidiah wants to step into Barbara’s world and get to know her in a way that occasional visits haven’t allowed. They land on an idea: to retrace the thousands of miles Barbara trekked with Jedidiah’s father, travel writer Peter Jenkins, as part of the Walk Across America book trilogy that became a sensation in the 1970s. Beginning in New Orleans, they set off for the Oregon coast, listening to podcasts about outlaws and cult leaders—the only media they can agree on—while reliving the journey that changed Barbara’s life. Jedidiah discovers who Barbara was as a thirty-year-old writer walking across America and who she is now, as a parent who loves her son yet holds on to a version of faith that sees his sexuality as a sin. Along the way, he peels back the layers of questions millions are asking today: How do we stay in relationship when it hurts? When do boundaries turn into separation? When do we stand up for ourselves, and when do we let it go? Tender, smart, and profound, Mother, Nature is a story of a remarkable mother-son bond and a moving meditation on the complexities of love.

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Book SynopsisIn this third book beckoning readers to search for historic lost loot, journey to New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania to learn about Native American villages, lost mines, pirate booty, ghosts, curses, monsters, dangers, and more. Learn about the connection between the infamous Jersey Devil monster and Captain Kidd both are said to guard a pirate treasure! Discover precious and rare gems in New York, and look up to see what has been flying through the Pennsylvania skies, a sentry of a golden treasure since prehistoric times. There may be military artifacts to discover, but one may also see the soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice still roaming the battlefields. Take the journey to find the loot, but always walk into the adventure with both eyes wide open!

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Book SynopsisHere is a travelogue for those whose idea of a perfect vacation doesn''t involve amusement parks and tourist traps, a guidebook for fans of horror and the macabre. Ride along with the author to ghoulish destinations, such as where fright flicks like Friday the 13th and Jaws were filmed, Jeffrey Dahmer''s childhood home, UFO crash sites, and macabre graves, to name a few. See the sites in over 70 vivid color photos. Fifteen states were visited from Maine to Georgia in search of iconic filming locations from movies such as The Exorcist, Silence of the Lambs, The Shawshank Redemption, and The Evil Dead. Along the way, monsters were hunted, vampire graves tracked down, a strange mix of paranormal and odd locations across the Eastern US were visited, and Stephen King was met. Hitch a ride, but remember that you never know what you might find--or what might find you!

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Book SynopsisDiscover a wild (and often off-the-beaten path) Europe--from Croatia's coastal beauty to Scotland's windswept highlands--in this comprehensive guide to 460 pristine parks and wild spaces, packed with full-color photos, detailed maps, and practical tips. In these rich and informative pages, the travel pros at National Geographic bring you the premier guide to 460 national parks of Europe. Find your way to Snowdonia in Wales, offering more than 1,490 miles of walking trails through thick forests, coastal beaches, deep lakes, and jagged mountains. Catch a glimpse of more than 10,000 species inhabiting Germany's Bavarian Forest. Explore the flora and fauna while camping amid the twin peaks of France's Pyrénées. Or visit 'the home of the giants,' Norway's Jotunheimen park, containing the country's 29 highest peaks and plenty of backcountry hiking. This breathtaking tour spans the entire continent and will inspire your nextTrade Review“This book has only intensified my #wanderlust heart and desire to explore this region.” –Instagram: @southerbellereading “I’m 100% sure my sister is going to steal this from me when she goes overseas this summer. This is as close as I’m going to get to these amazing places for quite a while tho so at least I have this book!” –Instagram: @dropandgivemenerdy “National Geographic's latest tome titled, Complete National Parks Of Europe, is AWESOME!! Think about it, a book chock full of gorgeous photographs of beautiful parks, beaches, forests, and mountains - how could you not fall in love with it?! I did.” –A Bookish Way of Life “I love America's National Parks, so it was really nice to learn about the plethora of parks in Europe that I have never even heard of!!” –Instagram: @nature.books.coffee “It really opened up my eyes about how much there is to explore outside the major cities of Europe.” –Gone With the Family “I found myself flipping through the pages and planning a trip to REI for some gear!” –Instagram: @wellreadtraveler “You won’t find a better guide to the most beautiful national parks in Europe, 460 to be exact!The pictures are breathtaking and the visual descriptions having me want to book a flight tomorrow!” –Instagram: @books_with_bethany “This book reminded me of how much world there still is to see and why you should make the effort to return to some locations. It made me realize that the next time I travel to France, I’m going to visit Vanoise National Park rather than immediately resorting to Paris or Nice. As always, National Geographic awakens even the most reluctant explorer to seek lesser-known areas and to enjoy the world for all of its beauty.” –The Wayfaring Voyager “My husband and I have an extended list of European trips we want to take before we settle down, and having this book has been amazing for our trip we're planning our Northern Ireland and Ireland trip this fall!” –Instagram: @colbywilkins “Whether you’re into hiking, climbing, photography, history, mythical legends, or just enjoy the quiet beauty of nature, these destinations cater to many interests. I loved this book. I’ve never wanted to trek across Europe more than I do now.” –Tabi Thoughts “As you can imagine, this is another stunning National Geographic book. It completely ignites my wanderlust. I would eagerly visit any and all of these parks. It includes places of which I am familiar and ones that were completely new to me, and I enjoyed the exploration and all I learned. Snowdonia especially piqued my interest because of my family’s Welsh ancestry.” –Jennifer – Tar Heel Reader “The book is filled with amazing photographs and brief descriptions of the region. Also, included are possible wildlife sightings as well as brief history tidbits. I have my favorite dream places all mapped out. I hope I get to visit some of them one day. Now I just need to win the lottery!” –From the TBR Pile “It's National Geographic, so obviously high quality, informative and full of beautiful pictures.” –Instagram: @places_and_books

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Book SynopsisIn this inspiring travelogue, celebrated traveler and photographer Jessica Nabongo—the first Black woman on record to visit all 195 countries in the world—shares her journey around the globe with fascinating stories of adventure, culture, travel musts, and human connections.  It was a daunting task. But Jessica Nabongo, the beloved voice behind the popular website The Catch Me if You Can, made it happen, completing her journey to all 195 UN-recognized countries in the world in October 2019. Now, in this one-of-a-kind memoir, she reveals her top 100 destinations from her global adventure.  Beautifully illustrated with Nabongo's own photography, the book documents her remarkable experiences in each country, including:  A harrowing scooter accident in Nauru, the world’s least visited country, Seeing the life and community swarming around the Hazrat Ali Mazar mosque in Afghanistan,  Horse

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Book SynopsisEaster Island, isolated deep in the South Pacific and now a World Heritage Site, was home to a fascinating prehistoric culture—one that produced massive stone effigies (the moai) and the birdman cult—and yet much of the island’s past remains shrouded in mystery. Where did the islanders come from, and when? How did Rapa Nui culture evolve over the centuries? How, and why, did their natural environment change over time? Paul Bahn and John Flenley guide readers through the mysteries and enigmas of Rapa Nui, incorporating the records of early explorers, folk legends, and archaeological evidence along the way. They cover the island’s geological and environmental history and explore its flora and fauna, illustrating how human actions affected the natural environment of the island. This fourth edition draws in: recent DNA studies of ancient human and animal bones as well as plant remains; evolving understandings of how the moai were transported; and current efforts to reforest the island.Table of ContentsPreface Introduction: European Discovery 1: The Island and its Geography Part I: The Original "Boat People" 2: Where Did They Come From? East or West? 3: How Did They Get There, and Why? 4: Living on an Island Part II: Ancestors of Stone: A Petrified Dream 5: Statues and Ceremonies 6: The Riddle of the Quarry 7: Rocking or Rolling: How Were the Statues Moved? 8: Platforms and Pukao: Errecting the Statues Part III: The Aftermath 9: Crash Go The Ancestors 10: Orongo and Rongo Rongo 11: The Island That Self-Destructed 12: The Last Enigma

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Book SynopsisIn this rapturous memoir, writer and activist Laura Coleman shares the story of her liberating journey in the Amazon jungle, where she fell in love with a magnificent cat who changed her life. Laura was in her early twenties and directionless when she quit her job to backpack in Bolivia. Fate landed her at a wildlife sanctuary on the edge of the Amazon jungle where she was assigned to a beautiful and complex puma named Wayra. Wide-eyed, inexperienced, and comically terrified, Laura made the scrappy, make-do camp her home. And in Wayra, she made a friend for life. They weren’t alone, not with over a hundred quirky animals to care for, each lost and hurt in their own way: a pair of suicidal, bra-stealing monkeys, a frustrated parrot desperate to fly, and a pig with a wicked sense of humor. The humans, too, were cause for laughter and tears. There were animal whisperers, committed staff, wildly devoted volunteers, handsome heartbreakers, and a machete-wielding prom queen who carried Laura through. Most of all, there was the jungle—lyrical and alive—and there was Wayra, who would ultimately teach Laura so much about love, healing, and the person she was capable of becoming. Set against a turbulent and poignant backdrop of deforestation, the illegal pet trade, and forest fires, The Puma Years explores what happens when two desperate creatures in need of rescue find one another.Trade ReviewAn Amazon Best Book of the Month: Biographies & Memoirs “The Puma Years is a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the animals rescued by a sanctuary, Comunidad Inti Wara Yassi, in Bolivia. And it is the heartwarming story of the relationship that grew up between Laura Coleman and a puma, a relationship that only deepened over the years. I visited the sanctuary years ago—what a wonderful place, dedicated staff and passionate volunteers. Engaging and inspiring—you will love this book.” —Jane Goodall, PhD, DBE, Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute & UN Messenger of Peace “Coleman’s adrenaline rush–inducing debut transports readers along on her 2007 adventure to the Amazon jungle of Bolivia…Coleman’s purpose-finding journey also offers a call to action for addressing the heartbreaking circumstances of wild animals in peril.” —Publishers Weekly “Readers will be hooked by Coleman’s compelling storytelling right from the opening pages…There are poignant breakthroughs, unsettling setbacks, terrifying dangers, narrow escapes, heartbreaking separations and reunions, and hookups and relationships, all channeled through Coleman’s honest, wry, self-effacing, and always entertaining narrative…This is an amazing tale, one that readers will remember.” —Booklist (starred review) “A funny and compelling true story of courage, endurance, and self-discovery. The Puma Years is a hymn to the sorrows and joys of finding kinship with the animal world.” —Gregory Norminton, author and environmentalist “Impassioned, honest, unexpected and often very funny. A book about being consumed by the wild, in all its difficulty and damage, with a vivid cast of humans and animals.” —Nick Hunt, author of Where The Wild Winds Are “The Puma Years is an utterly wonderful book. It is a memoir, a love letter to a puma, and through that love comes the utter heartbreak of the forests. It is not just astonishingly good as a book, but it brings to life the full earthy reality of the forests, its swamps and iridescence, its wild beauty and rottingness, while so poignantly articulating its destruction. It is quite brilliant.” —Jay Griffiths, author of Wild: An Elemental Journey and Why Rebel

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Book SynopsisThis is the same amazing story as the current version, but with an updated cover and foreword. If you'd like to read Barbara Savage's two-year around the world bicycle trip now, you can order the current version here. Miles from Nowhere is the story of Barbara and Larry Savage's sometimes dangerous, often zany, but ultimately rewarding 23,000-mile bicycle odyssey, which took them through 25 countries in two years. Along the way, these near-neophyte cyclists on their ten-speeds encountered warm-hearted strangers eager to share food and shelter, bicycle-hating drivers who ran them off the road, various wild animals (including an attack camel), rock-throwing Egyptians, overprotective Thai policeman, motherly New Zealanders, meteorological disasters, bodily indignities, and great personal joys. The stress of traveling together constantly tested yet strengthened the young couple's relationship and as their trip ends, you'll find yourself yearning for Barbara and Larry to jump back on their bikes and keep pedaling. Originally published in 1983, Miles from Nowhere has provided inspiration for legions of modern travel-adventurers and writers.Trade ReviewOriginally published in 1985, this book has stood the test of time and is considered a classic of biking literature. It takes an author like Savage to captivate readers in a way that makes them feel as if they are pedaling right along with her and husband Larry Savage. The couple spent two years biking through 25 European, African, and Asian countries, traveling over 23,000 miles, graduating from novice riders to hardened road warriors. Ironically, the conditions today in many of the countries they biked through in the late 1970s either have not improved or have remained the same. Readers should know that the author was tragically hit and killed by a car soon after concluding this grand adventure while training on her bike for a triathlon just before the original work was published. While this edition offers a new foreword and an interview with widower Larry, the advanced copy did not contain the maps or pictures of the first book. A must-have for all libraries without a copy of the original, especially those with active biking communities seeking entertaining adventure stories. Savage also provides practical touring advice relevant to any bike traveler.-- "Library Journal" A long, long time ago, I read this book and went straight out and bought myself a $250 Specialized bicycle and started my first bicycle tour. Changed my life. I came home and wrote a book about the experience and gave credit where credit was due: Barbara and Larry Savage inspired me, giving me the courage for that first step. A lifetime has now passed, but Barbara's words are still fresh to me, as stirring, thrilling, and humorous as the first time I read them. Many things may have changed since their round-the-world journey, but our human hopes and fears haven't. We are all so much richer for preserving the gift Barbara left us, Miles from Nowhere.--Andrew X. Pham A valuable reissue, reminding us all about the joys (and sometimes sorrows) of seeing the world by bike.--Susan Spano As with much of the best travel writing, it's the voice that makes readers want to stick with a writer over a long journey, and Barbara Savage's voice is that of the best kind of travelling companion: honest, unpretentious, brave, and funny. She talks frankly about challenging aspects of cycle-touring, especially couples cycle-touring, that are usually played for laughs or omitted altogether from these kinds of books. The petty fights in the ditch, the unabashed yelling, the temper-tantrums. But she also describes the small acts of kindness, the making up, and the profound intimacy of living within a few feet of one's partner for most of over two years. The passages where she casually mentions 'lovemaking' (how 70s!) in their tiny tent are utterly disarming. In another writer's hands, they'd be corny, but not Barb's. The magic of this book is how, in her telling, the Savages come across not so much as cyclists or adventurers but as genuine human beings--adventurous, vulnerable, yet resilient--who happen to be riding bicycles.--Dave Buchanan From the swampy Everglades to the snowy Himalayas, Barbara's love of travel shines through. If you enjoy pedal-to-the-metal adventure, you'll find it here.--Rick Steves I cried until I laughed, and laughed until I cried at Barbara Savage's gorgeously written story of her cycling tour with her husband, Larry. Miles from Nowhere is the best of the best, a grand exploration of the world and its people by two wildly adventurous hearts in love with each other and life itself.--Gail Storey I read Miles from Nowhere by Barbara Savage in 2010 while on my own bike tour across America, which I think says at least something about how good it is--that I still felt like reading about biking even after I'd ridden a couple thousand miles. It's another book that's great because of both the writing and the scale of the adventure it captures.--Brendan Leonard If there's a timeless intimacy to be found in long-term bike touring, then it's multiplied by Barbara Savage's words. She takes us along on her two-year adventure and instantly we are her trusted companions. As we ride with Barbara, she doesn't waste time romanticizing the landscape or looking at the world through rose-colored glasses. Instead, she gifts us the privilege of her honesty. And with that, we lucky readers gain a window into the struggle, triumphs, and laugh-out-loud moments of human-powered travel in unexpected places. It's no surprise that Miles From Nowhere has lived on these past 30-plus years and inspired others to take to the road on two wheels. In these pages, Barbara lives on, too. I'm left with the unshaken belief that there's real, unfiltered life to be found out there, and, perhaps most importantly, true kindness.--Gale Straub Inspiring--a masterpiece of bike-travel literature!--Claude Marthaler Told with grit and good humor, this charming travelogue is a testament to why it's worth hitting the road--whether on a bicycle, or through the pages of a book.--Kate Harris

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Book SynopsisIt''s time to say h*ll yes to new adventures and always taking the scenic route with Get Me the F*ck Out of Here Travel Planner, the best undated travel planner to help you get out of your comfort zone and see the d*mn world! Plan your ultimate vacation with ease with travel tips and information, bucket lists, travel goal-planning pages, and spreads to record all your best trips and memories. Sweary phrases are scattered throughout the year for laughs and travel inspiration as you prepare to go on the best d*mn adventures of your life.

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Book SynopsisFrom the rich tropical city of Phnom Penh, the wonders of Angkor Wat, and the oddly loveable country town of Kampot, to Sihanoukville, named after the movie-directing and womanising former king, Walter Mason takes the reader on another colourful adventure in one of the world's hottest new destinations. With his friends Simon, a taxi-driver and unlikely middle-aged gigolo, and Lan, a leggy Vietnamese transsexual, he explores Phnom Penh's underworld. Resting in the bars and cafes that line the banks of the river, he notes the strong French influence from a colonial past. Walter attempts to gain an introduction to the bachelor king, once a ballet dancer and Cambodia's cultural ambassador to Europe, whose mother, Queen Monique, is a former film star and Eurasian beauty. He also befriends Mak Suong, a gifted young writer who has scandalised Cambodian society with a racy and wildly popular new novel about the lives of gay men in Phnom Penh. After exploring the extraordinarily vibrant Khmer hip-hop scene, founded by expatriate Cambodian gangsters deported from American prisons, Walter retreats to the cool courtyard of Wat Koh, an enormous Buddhist monastery in the centre of Phnom Penh, with his friends, both monks. Sim is a big and buffoonish country bumpkin who flirts with girls who come to visit and dreams of leaving the monastery to marry. While morose and constantly brooding, Sakol unloads his troubles to Walter, revealing how he is haunted by the demons of war, cruelty and murder from Cambodia's dark past.

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Book SynopsisThese short travel essays from around the globe get to the heart of what the words travel and adventure really mean. In Search of Adventure explores the good, the bad, and the ugly of what travelling the world has to offer. The "Trampled Underfoot" section features tales of woe on the road -- the worst of the worst, or making the best of the worst. In "Global Issues & Viewpoints," authors explore the changing world, oppressive governments, and the homogenising of world cultures. From warm and inviting to raw and shocking, these non-fiction travel pieces present disparate viewpoints on the diverse world in which we live and leave no emotion untouched.

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