The best way to explore an off-beat destination

Updated : 7/20/2020 | July 20th, 2020 Dear Travelers, While I was in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, eating kottu (a traditional spicy stir-fry of shredded roti bread with vegetables and chicken), I noticed a scene outside the restaurant that I’ve witnessed too many times before: tourists riding an elephant. I sighed in despair. That animal they were so happily riding was mostly likely abused – and they either had no idea or they simply didn’t care. I understand their desire to ride that elephant. Most people love animals. We all love seeing and interacting with animals when we travel. It feels exotic. It’s why we go on safaris, visit zoos and tiger temples, and sign up for elephant rides, go gorilla trekking, take lion walks, and everything in between. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be that close to so many beautiful creatures? Animals are cute and (mostly) furry. But I have some bad news: almost all animal-based tourism in the world is abusive and detrimental to the animals . Ani...

JUMP TO : Costa Rica Travel Itineraries | Places to Visit | Where to Stay | Travel Tips | Cost of Travel Interested? PIN NOW, read later! Costa Rica is a country famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and ecological biodiversity. Travelers have been flocking to this magical country for decades in search of  Pura Vida  (Pure Life). Backpacking Costa Rica is a rite of passage for any backpacker keen on exploring South or Central America. Costa Rica is definitely the jewel in the Central American crown for a variety of reasons. The country is packed with a vast array of prime backpacker destinations. Think endless adventure opportunities for the adrenaline junkie, perfect surf beaches, steamy cloud forests, and quite possibly the most chilled out vibe anywhere on earth. You have been hearing about Costa Rica ever since you were old enough to read a map. Life has brought you to the fortunate crossroads of deciding where your next backpacking adventure will ...