I had always wanted to travel to the Islamic countries, but—to be completely honest—my mental association between Muslims and terrorist attacks didn’t encourage me at all. However, after a short visit to the Arab Emirates, I decided to set aside my assumptions about other Islamic countries too.

Morocco had a good reputation as a tourist country and seemed a safe choice for a woman traveling by herself. I was still afraid and felt uncertain when I started my journey, but I was prepared mentally and had backup plans, which made me feel more comfortable.

Here are my top 11 tips for female solo travel to Morocco. I hope you will find them useful and that my own experience here will show you how to travel as a woman in Morocco.

1. Plan The First Days In Advance

Venturing without plans into the unknown of a foreign country might be a great challenge and a good way to boost your self-confidence—if this is what you’re hoping to get out of travel—but you will have plenty of time to do that and be more flexible after you first get used to the local customs and atmosphere.

Travelers especially enjoy Morocco for the cultural shock they have to face and for the different traditions they’re not used to. During the first days in Morocco, you won’t understand what’s happening around you, so it’s better to plan the first few days of your itinerary beforehand.

When I landed in the city of Fes, a taxi driver waited for me at the airport and drove me directly to the accommodation that I had booked beforehand. This way, I avoided unpleasant incidents at the beginning of my trip and allowed enough time to adapt to the new Moroccan lifestyle.

2. Ask For Advice From The Local Women

The local women will admire your courage to venture by yourself to a new country. Many of them have never traveled, so their traveling experiences are a bit different than ours (in fact, many of them will have gone on a pilgrimage to Mecca at some point in their lives).

Despite this difference, they will be sincerely willing to help and assist you in any problem you might have.

Ask the local woman how to stay safe in their country. Before I left Fes, the town where I had landed several days before, I asked the landlady of my guesthouse if there were places I should avoid because of the fact I was doing female solo travel to Morocco and, obviously, wanted to remain safe.

She said that I was safe in Morocco and that I could go anywhere—I felt such a sense of relief at that moment.

3. Go With An Official Guide In The Desert

Obviously, you cannot go by yourself everywhere (for example, a camel desert trek!) Search for local trips, always negotiate the price or book a trip on the internet.

For more information, you can read the article I have written about everything you should know about desert tours in Morocco.

When I went to the desert, I used a local guide, and out of the huge range of travel companies, I preferred the one recommended to me by a friend. I had the pleasant surprise to discover a humorous, good-hearted Berber, who knew each sand dune of the desert like the back of his hand.

4. Book A Riad (But Read The Reviews Beforehand)

When you book accommodation on the internet, carefully read the reviews from other travelers (e.g. on Booking.com, TripAdvisor or Google Maps) before completing a reservation.

Remember to not miss the local accommodation called riad or dar. The term designates a traditional palace or a house, elaborately decorated with zelij (local colorful mosaics), with a spacious patio, and in most cases, with a rooftop terrace from where you can have terrific views of the surroundings.

5. Stay Only With Local Women Hosts

If you plan to find local hosts on internet platforms (i.e. Couchsurfing, BeWelcome, or even Airbnb, etc.), you should only send requests to women hosts who have positive references from other guests.

VERY IMPORTANT: male hosts have been known in the past to have had sex with women visitors, so it is very important to remember that you are in a country where this subject is viewed differently. So stay only with local women hosts!

Finding the right hosts on internet platforms was a long process for me. I sent all my requests before arriving in Morocco, got several answers back, and had more time to enjoy myself when I arrived instead of searching for ‘safe’ hosts.

6. Wear A Wedding Ring

This one is already a cliché but I will still mention it because it is very useful for female solo travel to Morocco.

When men ask you if you are alone, be quick to mention ‘your husband’ and show them your ‘wedding ring.’ Even if they don’t really believe you, they will still most likely be too concerned about where your husband is and so won’t focus on you. If a man seemed too interested in me or just stared at me, it was enough to make my wedding ring visible.

In the worst-case scenario, a man insistently approached me when I stopped the car at the traffic lights. I had to be a bit aggressive and mention the police. After that, he disappeared right away. Everybody understands the word “police.”

7. Dress Modestly

In the bigger towns like Marrakesh, Casablanca, and Rabat, you will see women wearing jeans and no scarves covering their heads. However, I didn’t see women wearing shorts or mini skirts, so if you do that, realize that everybody will have a good reason to look at you.

In the more religious towns and in the countryside, women wear long overcoats and cotton headscarves even when outside in over 40℃ / 104°F heat. They hide every aspect of their female figure and they will also hide their face if you take pictures of them. Make sure to respect their culture and religion.

8. Avoid Walking Alone At Night

Don’t go out by yourself at night, especially if your accommodation is situated in a medina (the old part of town) where the winding narrow streets create a real labyrinth.

I always planned to come back ‘home’ before dusk and simply enjoyed my evenings talking with other guests, planning my next days or just thinking about what a beautiful day I’d had.

Like solo travel elsewhere, female solo travel to Morocco comes with a few compromises.

9. Do Not Drink Alcohol In Public

Avoid drinking alcohol in public places unless you are at the restaurant of your hotel where they serve alcoholic drinks for tourists.

For all the Muslims, alcohol is prohibited, and most of them respect this rule very strictly. You won’t find alcohol in the local shops and eateries, so you’ll experience what life is like without this ‘magic liquid.’

During my six-week trip through Morocco, I didn’t drink alcohol at all. I discovered I can have even more fun without drinking beer or wine.

10. Be Aware Of Fake Guides

In the medinas (the old part of the towns), you will often hear young boys pointing to you in the direction that you’re heading while saying, “It’s closed. Don’t go there.” In actual fact, nobody has closed the medina, but the local people know that the Moroccan medinas have a maze of winding, narrow streets where a visitor can easily get lost (even with a GPS).

This is their chance to be your local guide in exchange for a little money.

During my first days in Morocco, I was fooled by some fake guides and had to follow them to ‘save’ me out of the medina. In the evening, my landlord confirmed to me they were just taking advantage of confused visitors and taught me how to turn them down, saying “La, la, shokran” (No, no, thank you).

11. Negotiate Everything You Buy

Negotiate everything, especially all the prices in the medinas (old towns) and souqs (covered markets). Moroccans have a long history and experience in trading goods.

Usually, the prices are not displayed so it is better to ask in several places and figure out what the average price might be. Nobody will push you to buy something but keep in mind that bidding while sipping a glass of mint tea is part of the selling process in Morocco.

If you haven’t traveled there yet, female solo travel to Morocco is a safe and realistic option. In fact, it’s possible you could even start here to gain experience traveling solo. After visiting Morocco on my own for six weeks, I became more confident in myself and many other solo trips soon followed. Nothing is as bad as it seems.

Suggested next reading: 8 Top Sights In Morocco That’ll Make You Want To Visit ASAP

The post 11 Super Important Tips For People Who Are Traveling Solo To Morocco appeared first on Modern Trekker.

However, when packing your bags, you don’t think of what you might do to prepare for the beauty you encounter, perhaps aside from bringing a camera or notebook with you. But you must prepare for something you hope never happens, and that’s become in proximity to danger.

Of course, we’re not talking about anything outlandish, such as walking into a warzone territory or having to save the world from an evil genius (but if you do that, more power to you.)

No, it’s the practical, daily realities of world travel that we most need for personal safety while traveling. Doing so can give you the tools to enjoy your best travels, and to make the memories you most wish to curate. For that and more, please read these 11 safety tips for travelers.

1. Medication

Of course, heading abroad can be a stressful time, but one that’s worthwhile if you have everything you need close to hand. Aside from food and water, there’s arguably nothing more important than bringing along your necessary medication with you.

Depending on where you’re going, you might need a range of vaccines in order to immunize yourself against certain issues taking root in the country you hope to visit. This should be taken care of ahead of time.

It’s also essential to bring with you medication that you might hope you never need, or medication to help you through a problem you might contract. For example, malaria tablets could be one of these important items, because contracting it is likely not on your bucket list.

Remember to bring secure compartments filled with the items you might need, such as blood pressure tablets, insulin injections, and simple painkillers. Also, bring with you a humble first aid kit, because you never know when this being at the bottom of your bag could potentially save a life.

Medication matters, and it can help you to no small degree. Make use of your planning, or be sure to carry odds and ends matched by whoever you’re traveling with. And as always, be sure to consult with your doctor before you leave to go abroad.

2. Safety & Funds

It is essential when traveling to another country to keep hold of your money. Travelers cheques can help you convert your money correctly when you head to another country, as they are in your name and can be only redeemed by you even if stolen.

Protective pouches with hidden zips in your bag or belt can help you hide a decent amount of money if anything is stolen from you, helping you out if your belongings are stolen. Also, bringing a fake wallet with you including some old cards you don’t need and a paltry sum of money can help you if you are mugged or pickpocketed abroad.

Another option is using a banking app such as Revolut to store your money wirelessly, giving you access to your bank account, and also providing the best exchange rates on the fly. Not only if this safer (since the card that comes with these apps can be frozen from your phone if lost), but it’ll also save you money because of better exchange rates.

Of course, it’s unhappy to be wary of everyone in a country you hope to enjoy, but sometimes tourists can be targeted for their lack of carefulness, and you should hope to do everything you can to avoid being one of their number.

3. Groups & Street Smarts

While solo travel might have a certain allure to it, it isn’t the wisest option for someone not well versed in a particular region, or perhaps not as traveled as they like to think.

Heading with someone or a group you trust can help you stick together, explore places with the protection of numbers, and ensure that anyone looking to victimize tourists are discouraged by your group looking out for one another.

Also, learning a little fragment of the street smarts in a location can help you avoid issues as they might arise. For example, learning where the areas of poverty are might help you avoid them, or perhaps if a street is known for some kind of gang activity, you might wish to avoid that area too.

You can learn this information from online resources, or from asking the locals depending on where you are. An information tourist board might also help you learn some of this information.

4. Inspecting

Now and then, just give your body a once-over. Make sure nothing has been slipped in your bag, that you’ve had anything taken from you, or that you’ve lost your map. Simply keeping aware of yourself can be the most important thing to keep in check when abroad.

5. Share Your Details With Those You Trust

Don’t leave to go on holiday without first giving your loved ones a detailed itinerary of where you’re going, what you’ll be doing, and your contact details such as phone number, email address, and other social media profiles.

Ask them to contact you every other day or so to ensure you’re still ok. If you don’t reply within a certain number of days, let them know beforehand what they can do to alert the right people and authorities.

6. If You’re Traveling Alone, Don’t Tell People

If you’re traveling alone try to refrain from telling people that you are traveling alone. Seriously, even if they seem trustworthy, it’s better just not to risk it. Talk to people who travel solo and this is often one of their top holiday travel safety tips.

7. Blend In

Dress modestly and appropriately, wear a wedding ring (especially if you’re a single woman), try wearing clothes the locals wear, do a bit of research beforehand on your destination so that, in short, by the time you get there, you’ll know how now to stand out so much!

I know some of these safety tips for travelers may seem a bit paranoid, but they will actually go some way in helping you to immerse yourself in the culture. You’ll enjoy yourself even more this way!

8. Smile!

Probably one of the easiest tips on how to stay safe on holiday, it is so important that you smile! Looking anxious, worried, or nervous might actually attract the wrong sort of attention.

If you’re confident and relaxed you’ll give off the impression that you’ve been there before, and not phased by your surroundings.

9. Learn The Language Basics

Another essential international travel safety tip is to learn how to say the basics of the language including phrases such as, “No thank you”, “my friend/husband is just around the corner” and “I will call the police”, and any other essential phrases that might ward off any unwanted attention, or diffuse awkward situations.

10. Make A List Of Emergency Contact Details

Write down the number of the local police and other emergency services in the country you’re traveling to. Check out your local embassy if you have any concerns or want some more advice on good emergency contacts to be aware of.

11. Download Maps Offline Beforehand

Such as important tip on how to stay safe while traveling alone. 200 years ago this advice would have been, “don’t forget to bring your maps and compass”. These days, however, you are able to download maps to your phone which can be used offline.

That way, once you get to your target country, your phone can direct you whenever you get lost, no data will be used on your phone since you’ll be able to use your maps offline. Also, make sure to bring a power pack in your rucksack that can charge your phone up in case your phone battery dies.

Of course, this article makes travel abroad sound like a battlefield. It isn’t. But it’s always better to be safe than sorry, and we hope these safety tips for traveling abroad will help you know how to stay safe on holiday.

Have any other safety tips for travelers that have worked for you that you’d like to share with our readers? Please comment below!

Suggested next reading: 10 Smart Tips To Stay Safe When Traveling Alone

The post 11 Essential Safety Tips For Travelers You Need To Know appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Each country is so different from the next that it takes a long time to properly visit each one. While it’s easy to get caught up in how adorable each town is and to just stick to cities, Europe also has some incredible nature, especially mountains, throughout the region.

From Portugal to Norway, Europe has a great diversity of mountains and towns to go along with them. To make your life easier, we’ve gone ahead and compiled them together in a list for you, with more info about each one further below.

The Best Mountain Towns In Europe Are:

1. Innsbruck, Austria
2. Zermatt, Switzerland
3. Chamonix, France
4. Zurich, Switzerland
5. Grenoble, France
6. Reine, Norway
7. Torla, Spain
8. Hallstatt, Austria
9. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
10. Varenna, Italy
11. Salzburg, Austria
12. Bled, Slovenia
13. Interlaken, Switzerland
14. Olden, Norway
15. Sintra, Portugal

1. Innsbruck, Austria

Considered to be the winter sports capital of Europe, Innsbruck offers incredible views of the Alps year round.

When you’re not hiking or hitting the slopes, the town has plenty to do. Be sure to take a stroll around Innsbruck and take a look at the Imperial architecture that this Austrian town is famous for.

2. Zermatt, Switzerland

Located in southern Switzerland near the Italian border, Zermatt is famous for Matterhorn. The iconic mountain is one of the steepest in the world and has been featured on way too many postcards.

During summer months, you can explore the over 400 kilometers (250 miles) of hiking trails. Once back in town, be sure to get a drink on a patio with Matterhorn as your backdrop.

3. Chamonix, France

Located two hours west of Zermatt lies the town of Chamonix in France. Around this town are the most beautiful mountains in Europe and the location is perfect for people who want to explore the French Alps. It is home to Mont Blanc, the highest summit in all of the Alps.

The skiing is considered to be some of the best in the world so if you want to test your skills, Chamonix is definitely worth a visit.

4. Zurich, Switzerland

The only place on our list that can be considered a proper city, Zurich offers the best of both worlds.

On one hand, you can enjoy all of the culture, food, and nightlife that comes with a big city, while, on the other hand, you can be hiking massive mountains in the Swiss Alps within 2 hours.

While the city is considered to be one of the most expensive in the world, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to do. Don’t miss out on incredible views of Zurich from Uetliberg, a mountain right next to the city. You can take the cable car up to see it.

Tip: The closest cable car in Zurich is the Felseneggbahn, reached by the suburban railway at Adliswill.

5. Grenoble, France

Further south in the French Alps lies the beautiful town of Grenoble. Considered to be one of the most innovative places in France, Grenoble is booming as it is attracting more and more businesses that want a high quality of life.

It’s a great town to visit for a weekend getaway with your friends or significant other.

6. Reine, Norway

Take one look at pictures of Reine and be prepared to immediately add this town to your European bucket list!

Arguably one of the most beautiful mountain towns in the world, this small fishing village in northern Norway is remote and hard to reach, but well worth the trip. Home to only 300 locals, Reine is charming and full of adventure that is waiting to be discovered.

It also happens to be one of the best places in the country to view the Northern Lights.

7. Torla, Spain

Officially known as Torla-Ordesa, the tiny, charming town is located in northern Spain. It is at the base of Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park which makes it one of the best mountain towns in Europe for exploration.

Did we mention the food? Head to La Brecha for roasted lamb, the perfect meal after a long day of hiking.

8. Hallstatt, Austria

Located in the autonomous Upper Austria region and featuring some of the best mountains in Europe, Hallstatt is full of 16^th Century Alpine houses. Due to its unique houses, the town was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997.

If you are looking to relax and slow your pace down, Hallstatt is perfect for you.

9. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

If friendly locals, beautiful scenery, and good beer sound like something you’d enjoy, then head to Cesky Krumlov. You won’t find this town in many guidebooks, but that’s what makes this place so special.

Be sure to visit the castle that the town is centered around. It is the second biggest castle in the country and it is well worth a visit. Be ready to never leave Cesky Krumlov, one of the prettiest mountain towns around.

10. Varenna, Italy

Situated just north of Milan, Varenna is a beautiful town on the shores of Lake Como.

It is a great place to start any hiking or mountain biking adventure in the region. With its waterfront cafes, delicious food, small streets and mountains as your background, Varenna is one of the best European mountain towns for photographers.

11. Salzburg, Austria

Its literal translation means, “Salt Castle”, Salzburg is famous for being the setting of the Sound Of Music. Beyond this, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and looks like the town was taken directly from a fairy tale book.

12. Bled, Slovenia

The tiny town of Bled is known for its beautiful namesake, Lake Bled, but offers so much more.

Be sure to check out Bled Castle, which is way up in the mountains and offers spectacular views of the valley below. During summer, check out Vintgar Gorge, a 1.6 kilometer (1 mile) boardwalk that leads you through some incredible scenery along the river.

Despite its small size, Bled has to be one of the best European mountain towns on offer!

13. Interlaken, Switzerland

Whatever kind of adventure you are looking for, it can be found in Interlaken. Whether it be hiking, skiing, or paragliding, this adventure town is up for any challenge.

At night, Interlaken is surprisingly lively as many visitors come from all over the world to experience this mountain town.

14. Olden, Norway

Located in central Norway, Olden is at the foot of massive fjords. The town is one of the best places in Norway to view the fjords that the country is known for.

Be sure to visit in the summer and kayak down the river. It is by far the best way to see the fjords up close and personal.

15. Sintra, Portugal

While Sintra is not your classic European mountain town, it is unique in its own Mediterranean way. A day trip from Lisbon, Sintra has exploded in popularity in recent years.

Be sure to check out the Pena Palace and be ready to be amazed by its incredible detail and colors.

Where else would make your list of best mountain towns in Europe? Feel free to comment below!

Suggested next reading: 7 Spots In Europe That Can Be Overlooked (But Definitely Shouldn’t Be) 

The post 15 Astonishing Mountain Towns In Europe Worth Visiting appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Southeast Asian Food Stalls

What comes to mind when you think of food stalls back home? Cheap? Lower quality food? In Southeast Asia, some of the best places to eat are food stalls at the local market. Although you might think that a restaurant is a better idea and a safer bet, it’s not. At restaurants, you cannot see them cooking the food and you don’t know how long the food has been sitting back there. Be especially wary of a restaurant if it serves Western-style food such as hamburgers or pizza. Those restaurants almost guarantee that you’ll get food poisoning. At Southeast Asian food stalls, however, you can watch your food being prepared hot and fresh. Often times, the food stall is just a family or man and woman cooking food over a fire pit. You’ll want to watch where locals are eating and follow them. If you look out of place, then you know that you are in a good spot. Another thing to look for is the plastic chairs. If a food stall has plastic chairs, no matter how uncomfortable they may be, this is a good sign. There’s nothing quite like eating some Thai street food sitting on a tiny plastic stool while people watching and drinking a cold beer. The simple pleasures in life.

Try New Foods

Speaking of new experiences, Southeast Asia is a different world than any Western country. Some of the first things you’ll notice are the chaos, wild dogs, and of course, the smells. Some are delightful, while others are not so much…Regardless, different types of food being cooked is a part of these smells. Some of the Southeast Asian food you’ll see may not be familiar. Southeast Asia is for adventurous eaters so it is important to keep an open mind about the food choices. Whether it be fried spiders in Cambodia, hard-boiled duck eggs in the Philippines, grasshoppers in Thailand, or deep-fried scorpion on a stick in Vietnam, there are plenty of new foods to try wherever you go. My favorite Southeast Asian food that I tried was actually rat in Thailand. It actually costs more than chicken or pork and is considered a delicacy in the country. It actually had quite a lot of flavor with almost no fat. If you find yourself in Southeast Asia, I highly recommend trying new foods and expanding your horizon. Some foods you may not enjoy, but there may be some that you really love!

Use The Condiments Provided

 

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If you are already overwhelmed by the food, you might just skip over the condiments. That is a big mistake in my book. To use an analogy that many might be familiar with, it’s like having pancakes without maple syrup…It simply cannot be done. The two go hand in hand. There are quite a few condiments to choose from depending on what you are looking for. You can easily find different sauces from spicy to sweet. In my opinion, however, there are really only three you need to know. The first one is Sambal Belacan. It is a chili shrimp paste that is delicious on almost any kind of food and can be found in most countries throughout the region. Be careful though, I’m not kidding when I say it is spicy…Really spicy! The second sauce to try is called Tuk Trey It is a sweet and sour dipping sauce found in Cambodia and it is to die for! The sauce is mainly used with appetizers, but of course, it can also be used for entrees as well. My final favorite Southeast Asian sauce is called Fish Sauce. The reason the sauce has this name is because it’s created from fermented fish. (In other words, they let the fish get rotten and create a sauce out of it.) Due to the fact that it comes from a fish, the sauce is quite salty and is often used in curries. It can also be used with meat. In Vietnam, for example, fish sauce is often put on Banh Mi beef sandwiches, a local snack, to add some saltiness to the sandwich.

Make Sure Food Is Prepared In Front Of You

When anyone thinks about food in Southeast Asia, they immediately think of getting sick and having their trip be ruined. It’s always a toss-up whether you’ll get sick or not since the bacteria is so different. I’ve heard stories of being sick for a month or others that have lived there for some time and have never experienced food-related sickness. I previously mentioned that restaurants are a no go because you cannot see them prepare the food, To be safe when eating all that Southeast Asian food, it’s important to watch them cook your food fresh. You have to be strict about it. Sometimes you’ll notice that some street vendors just reheat food that was previously unsold. You have no idea whether that food was made earlier in the day or a week ago. Unfortunately, Southeast Asia does not have the same food safety measures that are in place for other countries and it is up to you to protect yourself. I always ask for the freshest meat they have and if I notice that the food sitting out has a lot of flies swarming it, I won’t eat it. If you watch vendors make your food, chances are you’ll be able to safely and happily enjoy your eating adventure in Southeast Asia.

Suggested next reading: 5 Crazy & Delicious Foods I Tried While Traveling

The post How To Eat Your Way Through Southeast Asia Like A Pro appeared first on Modern Trekker.

These reflections are prompted by my recent visit to the shrine of Our Lady of Fernyhalgh, near Preston, in the county of Lancashire in North-West England. Tucked away in the midst of fields, one gets a sense of just how remote this place would have been in its day, though the constant whooshing—faint but audible—of the nearby motorway reminds one that, in Western Europe, it is almost impossible to escape modernity altogether.

To go to Lancashire is to go to a place abundantly blessed in its rugged and rolling hills and in the—still today—cheerfulness and warmth of its people, and this despite the dourness and decline of many of its towns. Though it lacks the majesty of the Lake District to its north and the Peak District to its east, it is still a charming county with charming scenery and folk. It might be “grim ‘oop North” on a rainy day, but the Lancastrians can usually laugh it off with a jolly chortle. And I like to think—but I am a Catholic priest, so assume I’m biased—that this cheerfulness has something to do with the region’s history of Catholic faith, first through many brave souls who stood firm in their beliefs in hard times and then through the Irish immigrants who flocked to the county in the 19^th Century.

Fernyhalgh—also known as Ladyewell—is a witness to this fidelity. It is an ancient centre of devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, much loved by Catholics in these northern climes. If Lud’s Church spoke to me of fear, defiance and dissent (which, as I wrote in my previous post, also have positive sides to them), Fernyhalgh breathes a different atmosphere. One can still sense in its tranquil serenity something of the faith and courage of those Lancastrian Catholics who continued to go to pray at the shrine even in the worst years of persecution in the 16^th and 17^th Centuries. Bear in mind that at this time Catholics risked being hung, drawn and quartered (only look up what this means if you are not squeamish) for celebrating Mass (if priests) or staying loyal to the Pope and Church of Rome. To go to Ladyewell was, therefore, to risk being fined, imprisoned and even potentially killed. But go they did. All for the love of a woman, Mary, the Mother of God, as Catholics revere her.

What is amazing about the faith of these people was their devotion to a rite which many modern Catholics find boring and invent all sorts of excuses to avoid: I mean the Mass. This Catholic sacrament had been outlawed by the government and replaced by a new Communion rite based on a more Protestant theology. But many Catholics were determined to keep attending it and did so in secret sites up and down the land. Numerous country houses, run then by Catholic gentry, bear witness to this, with the hidden chapels and hiding holes for priests in case of a raid by government agents. Scores of young men went abroad to train for the priesthood and returned in disguise to minister to the clandestine Catholics, knowing it was only a question of time before they would be arrested and executed. Ordinary lay people—men and women, like St Margaret Clitherow, a butcher’s wife in York—risked and finally gave their lives to hide these priests. All for love of the Mass. Fernyhalgh has numerous relics of these martyrs.

Of course, if one really believed what the Mass is, one would not be surprised at this. For us Catholics the Mass is the re-living, the making present each day, of Jesus’ death on the Cross and his rising from the dead. When, at the Last Supper, he showed bread and wine and said “this is my body which is given for you” and “this is my blood of the covenant which is poured out for many”, and added “Do this in memory of me”, he was instituting the Mass. The Mass makes present Jesus’ giving and pouring out of his body and blood on Calvary Hill, anticipated in that supper and then re-enacted through this sacrament. If you truly believe that this is God in human form offering his life and whole self to you, then risking your life for him is no longer such a big thing.

I appreciate that all I have said thus far could appear to some readers as a form of Catholic triumphalism, basking in the glory of these illustrious past co-religionists. While I think that anyone who actually checked the facts of what I have written would find them to be correct, I certainly sympathize with this concern in that it is also true that we should never travel to blame others. To travel to fuel prejudice is almost the antithesis of the purpose of traveling. To travel is to open one’s mind, not to close it. While it is perfectly valid to travel in order to grow in faith—which is precisely the point of that particular genre of traveling we call “pilgrimage”—we should remember that faith must never become fanaticism. It should be a journey to a new place, not a return to old grievances. A pilgrimage should aim at the conversion of heart, not its hardening.

And so while I go to Fernyhalgh to be inspired by the bravery of these ancestors in religion—to try to live my faith today with the same courage they showed then—I also realize that I must not go to nurture a grudge or a victim complex. Besides, I am fully aware—to my shame—that while many Catholics have suffered great brutality in history, not a few have inflicted it on others. Thus, living faith should never be fostering resentment. As much as one might have suffered, collectively or even personally, the only way forward is to seek one’s own conversion, and not spend one’s life expecting others to say sorry. If we turn to God and virtue ourselves, others might in time follow our example. This “turning” is why we go on pilgrimage.

So, let me finish these reflections with some words from an ancient Christian writing attributed to a certain St Dorotheus. Put simply, the text’s advice is: blame yourself, not others, a self-blaming which, I would add, is an absolutely essential way forward in any ecumenical or inter-religious dialogue. In what way do I need to change to overcome the pride, greed, insecurity, bitter zeal or narrow rigidity which might lead me to mistreat others, in the name of religion or any other apparently noble cause?

But let the text speak for itself: “The reason for all disturbance, if we look to its roots, is that no one finds fault with himself. This is the reason why we become angry and upset, why we sometimes have no peace in our soul … We hope or even believe that we are on the right path even when we are irritated by everything and cannot bear to accept any blame ourselves. This is the way things are. However many virtues a man may have … if he has left the path of self-accusation he will never have peace: he will be afflicted by others or he will be an affliction to them, and all his efforts will be wasted.”

Suggested next reading: Questions You Need To Ask Yourself Before Traveling

The post How Travel Can Help Us Move Past Prejudice, Pain & Resentment appeared first on Modern Trekker.

My friend Carmella and I were road tripping through the Southwest, starting in Los Angeles and making our way through Arizona and New Mexico, then looping back around to California. We were in our mid-twenties and had never felt more free, each of us taking our first real grown-up vacation.

We rented a tiny car, threw our bags in the back, stocked up on baby carrots and gallons of water, and struck out on our own. We were elated. We talked nonstop. We left the smog of L.A. behind us, headed east, and arrived in Joshua Tree by evening.

Our First Time Staying In Airbnbs

By the bright light of the moon in the massive desert sky, we managed to find our Airbnb—a tiny cabin at the edge of the national park with just one neighbor in sight. We pulled up at 11pm and tiptoed to the door, still unsure of what we were walking into. We were greeted by the kindest woman named Stella, who’d waited up for us.

There was a little bedroom with fluffy towels laid out for us and a wicker basket of toiletries. There was just enough room for the two of us, and we snuggled up in our shared bed, laughing hysterically under the covers until we drifted off to sleep.

I knew we’d made a good choice when I woke in the middle of the night to the sound of coyotes yipping outside our bedroom window. I fell back to sleep marveling at the magic of the desert and woke the next morning to fresh green juice served in wine goblets, alongside stories of Stella’s past life in San Francisco. We were the first names in her pristine guest book, and we left a raving review.

If I thought we’d made a good choice by booking a room with no reviews, I was yet to be surprised at what was in store.

Joshua Tree To Madrid, New Mexico

We left Joshua Tree and eventually made our way to Madrid, New Mexico, a tiny mining town just outside of Santa Fe. Carmella had booked this Airbnb, and I was excited to see what the “eco cabin” in the hills of New Mexico would be like. We arrived and were greeted by the Airbnb manager, Lucy, settling into our cozy cottage with its compost toilet and limited electricity. Colorful prayer flags were strung about and we immediately felt at home.

It wasn’t until later that night, over glasses of wine beside a glowing fire under the full moon, that Lucy and I realized we had a mutual friend.

On the other side of the country in a remote Southwest town with a population of 200 people, I’d found a connection. We stayed up late into the night talking about synchronicity and human connection. What were the odds?

That trip ended up being one of those vacations where everything just works out. We ended up staying in Airbnbs a total of four different times and left all but one feeling like we were good friends with the owners. They were complete strangers. Welcoming other complete strangers into their homes. Literally opening their doors and hearts to the belief that people can be kind.

A Life Of Travel

As I continued a life of travel following that trip, I learned that this would be more common than not in all of my experiences of staying in Airbnbs. I’ve stayed in Airbnbs all over the world—rambling farmhouses in Maine, cozy cottages in rugged Tasmania, mountain suburbs in Ojai. Sometimes solo, sometimes not—but always with the faith that people are good at heart. (And of course, most of these were private rooms in a home, rather than an entire home independent from the owners—I always find that I like it better when hosts are around.)

Four years after my initial Airbnb stay in Joshua Tree, I found myself in a 1900s clapboard house in the Blue Mountains of Australia, a fantastic region filled with eucalyptus forests and stunning cliffs and roaring waterfalls. I was with a friend who’d never stayed in Airbnbs before, a friend who was a bit reluctant to reserve a room in a stranger’s house with nothing but hope, faith, and a few reviews.

The owner, a sweet woman in her fifties, invited us in and explained how she found herself there—escaping city life in Sydney at the discovery of a troubling illness, settling into the mountains for fresh air, art therapy, and recovery. I spotted my favorite artist’s work on her fridge, and she’d left us hot water bottles at the end of our beds for the chilly autumn night. In her kitchen hung a giant chalkboard upon which she’d jotted affirmations and quotes, and we got lost exploring her bookshelves filled with tomes on lucid dreaming and homesteading.

She was out of the house the next morning when we checked out with our backpacks in tow, and when we realized we’d accidentally left a cell phone behind, she was suddenly pulling up alongside us in her car, encouraging us to get in so she could give us a lift back to get it.

Complete strangers from countries other than her own. Trusting us in her home without her. We could have been the ax murderers.

My friend was shocked at how Airbnb worked. “She doesn’t mind that we’re here without her?” she said incredulously. “Are all hosts this nice? Is this always how it goes?”

(Of course, it doesn’t always go exactly like this. Not every single Airbnb host is kind and welcoming and goes out of their way to make you feel at home. But with a little awareness and intuition when you’re booking, you can find gold. And more often than not, it’s worth it.)

Conclusion

Now, I always prefer to peruse Airbnb before turning to a hotel or hostel. I love not knowing what I’ll find or who I’ll meet. When you can be open to it, there are stories to be heard, kindnesses to be gifted, meals to be shared, neighborhoods to be explored, friends to be made. I’m still in touch with some of my past hosts, and even just a connection over Instagram feels incredibly heartwarming to me.

Because in a world that feels increasingly scary and unsafe, there’s this: the unfailing hope and belief that people are intrinsically good — and that we have more in common than we think.

Note: I want to acknowledge that as a white American female, I carry a certain privilege that not everyone is granted, and others’ experiences of strangers’ kindness may not be the same as mine.

Suggested next reading: Why I Travel Alone (And Why You Should Too)

The post How Staying In Airbnbs Renews My Faith In Humanity appeared first on Modern Trekker.

By my calculations, in order to hit everything on my bucket list, I’d have to move every 2-3 days, and even then I might not be able to hit everything. That’s just simply not sustainable for a year, and while moving quickly and checking off boxes might be some people’s preferred way to travel, it’s definitely not for me.

So, the alternative was to figure out how to make it work long-term. If I was going to take the plunge and travel full time, it was going to be a permanent lifestyle change. It took a lot of deliberate planning and hard decisions to get to this point where I am permanently and intentionally homeless.

I’m not saying that everyone should quit their jobs and travel long-term instead of enjoying those short trips when you get the chance, because short-term travel can also be wonderful and I’d always advocate for any type of travel over staying in one place. The long-term travel lifestyle is not for everyone, by any means. But if you are considering making the leap, here are the tidbits of wisdom I’ve learned so far.

Pros of Long-Term Travel:

You can go anywhere at a moment’s notice, and that’s incredibly liberating. My entire life fits into a 45L backpack. I can be at the airport in under an hour, and go anywhere in the world. Because I work online, my job will come with me. For the gap year-ers and the non-digital nomads, the process is the same. When you can carry everything you own with you on your back, the possibilities are endless. While on some days the sheer number of options will seem overwhelming, there’s so much joy in going with the flow and seeing where life takes you.

Your perspective will change along the way, and you will grow as a person so much faster than if you’d stay at home. You have to adapt and evolve with each new place you visit. The exposure to new people and fresh perspectives will constantly challenge you to reevaluate who you are, what you believe in, and what’s truly important.

Every person crosses your path for a reason, and being in an unfamiliar place opens up your heart and your mind to those lessons. On my first round of traveling after finishing school, I learned more about people, life, love, humanity, and the way the world works in three months on the road than I did in four years of college. It took one eight-hour hike with a stranger to completely change my entire worldview.

You don’t necessarily need to travel long-term to experience this—it could be as much as taking a weekend trip to somewhere an hour away from your hometown, as long as you can go somewhere new and open your eyes to the people and cultures around you. While all our cultures, languages, and traditions vary wildly across the globe, we are all the same at a basic, fundamental human level, and kindness knows no language barrier.

Cons of Constantly Being on the Move:

It’s a lifestyle, and it’s going to be just as scary jumping out as it was jumping in. As scared as I was when I finally walked into my boss’s office after months of planning and told them I’d be leaving at the end of the month to travel the world, I’m committed now. It took a lot of deliberate, calculated steps to get to this point, and I’m sure it will take just as much work to stop. After all, a body in motion stays in motion. As hard as it is to adjust to the culture shock of being in a new place, reverse culture shock when you return home is so much worse. 

But it is a lonely lifestyle. Even if you’re moving slowly and staying in the same place for months at a time, you’re ultimately still saying goodbye to those friends you make in each new place, and you can forget about having a real long-term relationship. The pool of people who share the same nomadic or semi-nomadic mindset is small and scattered, and so far, I’ve had a hard time identifying people who are even able to relate to what I’m doing, or why.

Long-term travel is a beautiful thing, and an experience I wouldn’t give up for the world (pun unintended), but ultimately it’s not sustainable. As you get older, your interests and pace will inevitably change, leading you to put down roots and move more slowly. That doesn’t necessarily mean stop traveling, but it could mean setting up a home base somewhere and spending a smaller percentage of the year on the road.

Anyone who has taken the plunge into long-term travel knows that even once you’ve stopped, travel is not something you’d ever willingly give up altogether. It becomes a series of trade-offs. Yes, see the world while you have the ability to do so, and don’t look back. But know that it’s not all gorgeous, instagrammable sunsets and coconuts. It’s a lifestyle that comes with pros and cons, just like any other.

Suggested next reading: Backpacker Culture: The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly

The post The Pros & Cons Of Long-Term Travel No One Ever Tells You About appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. Green Tea (Japan)

It’s no secret that Japan is home to the oldest life expectancy in the world (Men 79 years old, Women 86 years old). Every other culture wants to know why Japanese people live so long. The secret? No one is quite sure as there are many different reasons, but many believe green tea plays a factor. There have been numerous studies on green tea and its health benefits. From maintaining oral health to preventing cancer, green tea has started to become popular outside of Japan. This can be seen in many cafés around the world as many people now drink Matcha Lattes, a green tea powder.

2. Small Portions (Europe)

As an American, this is one of the first things I noticed when I lived in Europe. Compared to the massive servings back home, Europe’s plates are tiny. This was great for me because if I have food in front of me, I’ll eat it. Instead, Europe’s portions are just enough. The plate sizes prevent you from overeating and feeling incredibly full after your meal. I have come to realize that there is no reason for the huge portions. Europeans pair their small serving size with a long drawn out dinner with friends and family. I think Europeans are onto something.

3. Low Carb Diet (Mediterranean)

The Mediterranean diet is heart healthy, low carb, and high protein. It’s only caught on in the past decade in North America but has been around for centuries in Mediterranean countries, where meals are events. The health benefits associated with the diet are plenty. The diet has been shown to reduce bad cholesterol, reduce cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. So what exactly is a Mediterranean diet? The key components are eating plant-based foods such as fruits and vegetables, replacing butter with healthy fats such as olive oil, using herbs and spices to flavor dishes, and of course, drinking red wine. Another aspect of a Mediterranean diet is taking the time to prepare fresh food and enjoying the meal in the company of family and friends. We’ll raise a glass of wine to that…in moderation of course

4. Nature Getaways (Canada)

Canada is known for their long, harsh winters, but that doesn’t stop Canadians from going outside and enjoying the weather. No matter the season, Canadians can be found outside in nature. In winter, they love to ski or snowboard. In all other seasons, you can bet they will either be hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, or enjoying a whole host of other outdoor activities. Canadians value their time in nature and it’s a big reason why they have a great work-life balance. They believe in working hard during the week and having fun outside on the weekend. Luckily, they have some of the most stunning nature on Earth.

5. Nordic Spas (Scandinavia)

Have you always wondered why every spa wants to be known as a “Nordic” spa? It’s because Scandinavia is the gold standard when it comes to spas. They are known around the world for their famous images of saunas and steam rooms in the snow. Scandinavians take their spas seriously. The tradition dates back thousands of years and is usually a full day outing for the entire family. There is a simple three-step system to a Nordic spa treatment. It involves a circuit consisting of firstly working up a sweat in a sauna and, secondly, taking a dip into cold water. The third and final step is to take it easy and relax in an outdoor steam bath. There are various health benefits for doing this circuit. It has been shown to improve the immune system, good for skin health, and reduce stress. There’s a reason why Scandinavians are some of the happiest people on Earth.

6. Muesli (Switzerland)

Muesli is a breakfast dish that was invented by a Swiss doctor over a hundred years ago for his sick patients. Based on raw rolled oats, grains, fruits, and seeds, the breakfast is high in fiber, is easy to make, and has become a popular choice of cereal for people all over the world because of its health benefits. It’s pretty tasty too.

7. Siesta (Spain)

A siesta (Spanish for “nap”) is a short nap in the early afternoon—usually just after lunch—that is quite a common occurrence in Southern European countries such as Spain and anywhere else where Spanish influence has spread throughout the world, e.g. the Philippines and Hispanic American countries. Studies have shown that those who nap have less risk of heart attack and that there is a 37% reduction in coronary mortality. The siesta has gone by the alternative name of “power nap” elsewhere around the world where, it too, has been shown to have various health benefits. Health benefits aside, who doesn’t sometimes need that extra energy in the afternoon during work?!

Suggested next reading: 9 Simple Tips To Stay In Shape On The Road

The post 7 Health Hacks Other Cultures Use To Improve Their Health appeared first on Modern Trekker.

There is, however, an alternative for sun-seekers in Japan. The Shimanami-Kaido cycling route—about 1.5 hours away from Kyoto and Osaka—is the perfect escape from urban Japan into a jaw-dropping subtropical paradise. You’ll cross awe-inspiring bridges over glittering, vivid-blue seas. You’ll make gentle climbs in the mountains and speed down paths flanked by wildflowers on the other side. You’ll experience local art, distinctive cuisine, and a region as rich in history as it is in gorgeous scenery. And then, when you’re tired, what better way to ease your muscles than with a cooling swim at a beautiful, quiet beach?

The Route

The Shimanami-Kaido Cycling Road is around 75km long and runs from Onomichi, on the mainland, to a town called Imabari on the neighboring island of Shikoku. This means that the whole length of the route should take anywhere from 4-10 hours to cycle, depending on your level of fitness and how often you want to stop. You can start your journey from Onomichi or Imabari, but we’d recommend the former as it’s a stunning and lively town, and is a better place to spend some time either before or after your journey.

There is a recommended route that most cyclists follow and it’s marked by a blue line for you to follow the whole way, so you never have to worry about getting lost. We left Onomichi on a short ferry ride, and passed over a series of six islands, each with their own character and quirks, before reaching Imabari. However, if you’re keen to go exploring, and don’t mind some more challenging climbs, then other routes and islands are waiting for you. Whichever route you take, some of Japan’s most spectacular natural scenery will surround you at every turn, so choose whichever is right for your level of cycling and you never need to worry about missing out.

Safety

There is some road cycling involved but the roads are so quiet and rural that it always feels very safe. We rode the trail in April and saw many children as young as 5 or 6 taking the route, sometimes—shamefully—even overtaking us. We also saw many lycra-clad locals with legs like traction engines, so you can feel assured that the route’s suitable for any age and experience level.

Cycle Hire

This is pretty straightforward, you basically have three options:

• Shimanami-Kaido cycling: There are a number of these rental outlets along the route, although most people will choose to hire in Onomichi or Imabari. It’s sometimes possible to reserve bikes ahead of time (try emailing them) but in most cases it’s first-come-first-served, so make sure you get there before opening time, especially on weekends and holidays. The main advantages are that it’s much cheaper (around 1,000 yen per day) and if you get tired and can’t complete your route then you can always leave the bike at another outlet en route and take the ferry or bus the rest of the way. Their bikes are mostly good quality and they have mountain bikes, cross bikes, city, electric and tandem bikes to choose from.
• GIANT bikes: GIANT offer high quality, carbon-fiber bicycles for people who take their cycling more seriously. However, at 6,000 yen per day, their prices are reflective of this. GIANT has two outlets: one in Onomichi and one in Imabari. You won’t have the option of dumping the bike midway through, and with all that hi-tech gear you won’t really have the excuse either. So only take this option if you’re sure you can make the whole route (and back).
• Red Bicycles: Is a small shop in Onomichi. Their bikes are in the middle for quality and price, but you’ll have to get the bike back to Onomichi and there are no drop-off points between there, so bear that in mind. Reservations are required in advance as their stock is much smaller than GIANT.

How To Get There

Here’s the best part: it’s so easy to get to. For Onomichi, the best plan is to take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Osaka or Kyoto towards Hiroshima. Get off the train at Fukuyama and make a quick change to Onomichi. The whole journey takes a maximum of 2 hours from Osaka and is incredibly straightforward, even if you’re not familiar with the Japanese rail network. We didn’t make the train journey to Imabari but fellow cyclists we met told us it was similarly hassle-free. HyperDia is an excellent resource and can give accurate information for this route for your starting location and dates.

Where To Stay

Onomichi is a lovely town. It’s small enough to walk around easily but big enough to feel lively. Their local noodle dish is recognized around Japan and a unique dish for food-lovers to try. The town sits at the foot of a chain of mountains and a climb or cable-car to the top gives some spectacular views out over the Onomichi channel.

We only spent one night in Imabari but generally found it to be a less interesting of a town than its mainland counterpart. Generally, we’d only recommend staying there for a night before heading back to the mainland the following day, but maybe you’ll have a different experience?

If you’re more interested in frequent stops than chewing tarmac, why not do just half the route? Setoda Sunset Beach on Ikuchi Island is a beautiful spot to hire a Bed & Breakfast or pitch a tent.

Whichever route you take and wherever you decide to stay, we hope your escape to Japan’s tropical hideaway is every bit as memorable as ours. Happy cycling!

Recommended next reading: Real Life Mario Kart In Tokyo: Everything You Need To Know

The post Island Hopping In Japan Will Blow Your Mind appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Travel quotes can, in a strange way, make one feel fulfilled even if they’re not currently traveling. Vicarious travel is a real thing. For others, travel quotes can give them confidence or emotional justification to purchase that cheap pair of plane tickets they’ve been eyeballing for some time.

Other people like travel quotes because of the lessons they can learn from them, And, conversely, others find travel quotes a bit empty and meaningless; lofty sounding words that are actually just a kind of pseudo-wisdom. The old stereotypical adage, of course, is that you find yourself by traveling. To be honest, that kind of motto, if meant definitively, ruffles my feathers too! Travel is what you make it to be, and I hardly think it’s necessary to leave your country in order to become a better person.

Travel can change you for the better, and sometimes for the worse. The key thing to realize it’s that it’s up to you. Travel can be life-changing if you do it properly. So I guess, after all, there is some truth to the “find yourself by traveling” motto.

Here are 15 slightly nuanced travel quotes that, while we hope still inspires your travels, more importantly, will change how you think about travel and how you do it.
 

1. “Travel is only glamorous in retrospect.” – Paul Theroux

2. “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – St. Augustine of Hippo

3. “Traveling is a brutality. It forces you to trust strangers and to lose sight of all that familiar comfort of home and friends. You are constantly off balance. Nothing is yours except the essential things: air, sleep, dreams, sea, the sky—all things tending towards the eternal…” – Cesare Pavese

4. “I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.” – Robert Louis Stevenson

5. “The traveler sees what he sees, the tourist sees what he has come to see. The whole object of travel is not to set foot on foreign land; it is at last to set foot on one’s own country as a foreign land.” – Gilbert K. Chesterton

6. “Jobs fill your pocket, but adventures fill your soul.” – Jamie Lyn Beatty

7. “Not all those who wander are lost.” – J. R. R. Tolkien

8. “We travel for romance, we travel for architecture, and we travel to be lost.” – Ray Bradbury

9. “The journey not the arrival matters.” – T.S. Eliot

10. “I travel because it makes me realize how much I haven’t seen, how much I’m not going to see, and how much I still need to see.” – Carew Papritz

11. “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu

12. “Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” – Gustav Flaubert

13. “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.” – Mark Twain

14. “I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.” – Susan Sontag

15. “It feels good to be lost in the right direction.” – Unknown

 
Suggested next reading: Why You Need To Ditch The Noise & Escape Into Silence ASAP

The post 15 Inspirational Travel Quotes That Will Change The Way You Travel appeared first on Modern Trekker.