6 reasons Kyrgyzstan should be your next trip 🇰🇬
6 reasons Kyrgyzstan should be your next trip 🇰🇬
Over the last few weeks, I’ve posted about some amazing places in Kyrgyzstan. Now, let me share some of the main reasons you should consider visiting ⬇️
😍 Whether it’s snow-capped peaks, colorful mountains, glittering lakes, or gushing waterfalls, you’re rarely without a gorgeous natural view—even while driving!
⛰️ If you love adventure, it’s the perfect place for trekking, horseback riding/trekking, skiing, and more. Just note: you’ll want to train for the hiking here, as it’s high altitude.
🛖 While the number of tourists is increasing, it’s still relatively undiscovered by tourism, meaning you can have a more authentic experience.
🚶♀️ While you should exercise increased caution near the border areas of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan is safe to travel. Personally, as a female traveler, I never felt unsafe!
☕ The hospitality is amazing. At every yurt and guesthouse stay, I was welcomed with hot tea and a huge spread of cookies, candies, bread, jams, and butters.
💸 Many travelers will find Kyrgyzstan to be budget-friendly. For instance, outside of the bigger cities, @AlexOnTheMap and I paid about $20-$35 each for a stay at a guesthouse or yurt including breakfast and dinner. On the higher end, a 4-star hotel in the capital cost $72 per night.
Have you ever thought about visiting Kyrgyzstan? ✈️
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Catching a glimpse of one of Kyrgyzstan’s highest mountains 😍
Catching a glimpse of one of Kyrgyzstan’s highest mountains 😍
The first day of my 4-day Kyrgyzstan trek started at Tulpar Lake, with a hike to Traveler’s Pass—which offers beautiful views of Lenin Peak, the highest mountain in the Pamir-Alay Range, from 4000 meters. 😮
Well, almost. 😅
While we made it partially through this challenging trek, once we got closer to the endpoint, we realized it was covered in snow and ice and would be extremely challenging to finish. ❄️
Luckily, there was a shorter route that we could switch to, Kyzyl-Bel. According to our guide, this got us essentially the same view of the Pamir Mountains as well as Lenin Peak once the clouds parted. 🏔️
Tip: I visited in late June, but it’s recommended to visit in July and August if you want to avoid snowier conditions on many of the popular treks! 🌨️
Song-Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan (STUNNING!) 😍
Song-Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan 😍
One highlight of a trip to Kyrgyzstan is visiting the many beautiful lakes that dot the country—like Song-Kul Lake. 🤩
This enormous alpine lake sits at 3016 meters and is absolutely stunning as you sit in a natural bowl surrounded by mountains on all sides. 🏔️
In the center, you have numerous yurt camps (I stayed at Kochkor 7 run by the fabulous Rahima) as well as cows grazing and people riding on horseback (which you can also do when you visit). 🛖
At night, the stars shine bright and you can see numerous famous constellations. 💫
Along with the beauty, my favorite part about this stop was how remote it felt. I truly felt like I’d driven to the ends of the earth—with the nearest gateway town, Kochkor, being about 2 hours away. 😌
If you visit Kyrgyzstan, make sure to spend a night or two on Song-Kul Lake! 🐟
Fairytale Canyon in Kyrgyzstan 😍
One of the most beautiful places to visit in Kyrgyzstan is Fairytale Canyon—which features otherworldly rock formations that look like castles and creatures from fairy tales (hence the name). 🧚
Archeological evidence suggests that the Issyk Kul (lake) basin was once home to a few powerful cities. ⛏️
According to legend, the Issyk-Kul valley was once home to many cities. In one of these cities lived a beautiful young woman. A huge red dragon fell in love with her, but she did not reciprocate his feelings. 🐲
Angered, the dragon vowed to drown the cities in the valley. Every night, he tried to draw water from the local wells using his magic. The locals, however, covered the wells with golden lids to block his spells. 🐉
One night, the young woman forgot to cover her well, allowing the dragon to flood the entire valley and create the lake. 🌊
Enchanted by the lake’s beauty, the dragon laid down on the southern shore, turning into rocks. This, according to local legend, is how Fairytale Canyon came into being. 😲
Of course, we know that it is really Mother Nature being an incredible artist! 🎨
What is the most beautiful landscape you’ve ever visited? #JOAJKyrgyzstan
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The CRAZIEST thing I've ever done 😅
A sunrise from 3,031 meters (ie the CRAZIEST thing I've ever done!) 😅
The 12-hour round-trip hike up Bali’s active Mount Agung volcano is the hardest thing I’ve done to date. The climb up is absolutely BRUTAL, and the trek down — or, in my case, butt slide — is even worse. 😰
But I’m so glad I did it to take in the absolutely EPIC sunrise over Bali’s many volcanoes and mountains. At the top, you’re above the clouds and surrounding crates, which is surreal to say the least. 😍
Hiking up, you’re in complete darkness, and the views of the stars above and lit-up houses below is moving. 😶🌫️
On the way down, it becomes very clear just how high above the clouds you've hiked, which feels crazy. ⛰️
Important: Mount Agung is considered to be the most sacred mountain in Bali, so if you visit please do so respectfully. ✨
The CRAZIEST thing I've ever done 😅
A sunrise from 3,031 meters (ie the CRAZIEST thing I've ever done!) 😅
The 12-hour round-trip hike up Bali’s active Mount Agung volcano is the hardest thing I’ve done to date. The climb up is absolutely BRUTAL, and the trek down — or, in my case, butt slide — is even worse. 😰
But I’m so glad I did it to take in the absolutely EPIC sunrise over Bali’s many volcanoes and mountains. At the top, you’re above the clouds and surrounding crates, which is surreal to say the least. 😍
Hiking up, you’re in complete darkness, and the views of the stars above and lit-up houses below is moving. 😶🌫️
On the way down, it becomes very clear just how high above the clouds you've hiked, which feels crazy. ⛰️
Important: Mount Agung is considered to be the most sacred mountain in Bali, so if you visit please do so respectfully. ✨
The CRAZIEST thing I've ever done 😅
A sunrise from 3,031 meters (ie the CRAZIEST thing I've ever done!) 😅
The 12-hour round-trip hike up Bali’s active Mount Agung volcano is the hardest thing I’ve done to date. The climb up is absolutely BRUTAL, and the trek down — or, in my case, butt slide — is even worse. 😰
But I’m so glad I did it to take in the absolutely EPIC sunrise over Bali’s many volcanoes and mountains. At the top, you’re above the clouds and surrounding crates, which is surreal to say the least. 😍
Hiking up, you’re in complete darkness, and the views of the stars above and lit-up houses below is moving. 😶🌫️
On the way down, it becomes very clear just how high above the clouds you've hiked, which feels crazy. ⛰️
Important: Mount Agung is considered to be the most sacred mountain in Bali, so if you visit please do so respectfully. ✨
The CRAZIEST thing I've ever done 😅
A sunrise from 3,031 meters (ie the CRAZIEST thing I've ever done!) 😅
The 12-hour round-trip hike up Bali’s active Mount Agung volcano is the hardest thing I’ve done to date. The climb up is absolutely BRUTAL, and the trek down — or, in my case, butt slide — is even worse. 😰
But I’m so glad I did it to take in the absolutely EPIC sunrise over Bali’s many volcanoes and mountains. At the top, you’re above the clouds and surrounding crates, which is surreal to say the least. 😍
Hiking up, you’re in complete darkness, and the views of the stars above and lit-up houses below is moving. 😶🌫️
On the way down, it becomes very clear just how high above the clouds you've hiked, which feels crazy. ⛰️
Important: Mount Agung is considered to be the most sacred mountain in Bali, so if you visit please do so respectfully. ✨
What is your favorite hotel with a view? ✨
What is your favorite hotel with a view? ✨
Padma Resort Ubud in Bali is the type of place you don’t need to leave the grounds as there is plenty to do, see, and experience right onsite. 🎉
While it's a 5-star resort with loads of amenities, one of my favorite things about it was the VIEWS. 😍
It’s built into the hillside, with lush jungle, billowing palms, onsite trails, and tropical gardens at every turn. Dedicate a day to unwind in their terraced lagoon pool, boasting a swim-up bar, adjacent hot tub, restaurant, loungers with attentive service, and a beautiful view of the surrounding nature. 🌴
Note that while "Ubud" is in the name, it's actually about 45 minutes from Ubud Town, so stay here if you want a luxe remote getaway. 🧘♀️
An EPIC New York hike 😍
An EPIC New York hike 😍
If you’re looking for absolutely epic views for moderate effort, the Saint Regis Mountain Trail in the Adirondacks should be on your list. ⛰️
Most of the hike involves winding through the woods with a gradual ascent, with a few steep and rocky spots as you follow the yellow blazes. 🌲
It’s not too challenging until the very end, with the last 30 minutes providing a steep uphill and rocky climb. 😅
Luckily, it’s worth the effort as you’re rewarded with gorgeous panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. 💪
For a true 360-degree view, head up the fire tower. From there, you’ll see famous Adirondack High Peaks like Mount Marcy, Whiteface, and Algonquin as well as natural attractions like Upper and Lower St Regis Lakes, Bear Pond, and Lake Clear. 🤩
What are your favorite New York State hikes? 🥾
Meet Cinnamon, the adventure cat 🐈
Meet Cinnamon, the adventure cat 🐈
One of my favorite things about Airbnbs is the pets you meet during your stay, like Cinnamon.
I'd never met a cat who loved to hike; but during a rainy day, Cinnamon accompanied my husband and me on a trail that led off the property. 🥾
Not only that, but on the way back when we missed the turn back to the Airbnb, Cinnamon stood firm and meowed loudly, signaling for us that we'd gone the wrong way.
Who knows how lost we would have gotten without this cute kitty! 😅
What are your most memorable animal encounters on the road? 😻🐕🦜🐎🐮
Gorgeous beach in Mexico 😍
What are your favorite beaches in Mexico? 🌴
Yelapa is up there for me.
This boat-in village - which you can get to via ferry from Puerto Vallarta - has a truly stunning beach!
Kayaking the mangroves of Isla Holbox, Mexico ✨
Kayaking the mangroves of Isla Holbox, Mexico ✨
Not only do the mangroves of Isla Holbox offer a serene setting, but they also serve as a natural barrier against storm damage and a vital habitat for marine life. 🐠
The best way to explore this important ecosystem is by kayak, paddling through the scenic channels to learn about these amazing coastal trees, and seeing the local wildlife—like crocodiles, birds, and more. 🐊
Have you ever kayaked through mangroves? 🚣♀️
When things don't go according to plan 😝
When things don't go according to plan 😝
On a recent trip to Isla Holbox, my friends and I rented bikes to explore the island. 🚲
The problem? We didn't realize there had just been a storm, so many of the roads were badly flooded. (See my reel for a visual) 🌊
This led to us biking through huge mud puddles, zigging and zagging trying to find alternative routes, and even having to carry our bikes over our shoulders at times. 😅
While it did put a dent in our itinerary, in my opinion, travel setbacks are only as bad as the way you look at them. Instead of getting upset, we looked at it as an adventure - and even found an amazing coffee shop (Mr Happy Holbox) and some cool beach clubs along the way. ☕🌴😎
Obviously, this was a very minor setback; but I've tried to keep this attitude over the years as much as possible, whether I miss a train, my luggage gets lost, an attraction I wanted to visit is closed, or something else. 🧳
How do you handle travel setbacks? ✈️
Visiting Yalahau Cenote in Mexico 😍
Visiting Yalahau Cenote from Isla Holbox, Mexico 😍
You can't visit Isla Holbox without making the short trip to Yalahau, a serene freshwater cenote. 🏊♀️
The visit begins with a walk through the mangroves—which provide crucial habitat for various species and protect the coastline from erosion and storm surges. 👣
After a short 5-minute walk you come to a cenote, which is cool and refreshing and filled with fish. During my visit, I also saw raccoons hiding out under the boardwalk. 🐠
Along with being beautiful, Yalahau is part of the Yum Balam Flora and Fauna Protection Area—as is Isla Holbox. Yum Balam plays a crucial role in conserving the cultural heritage of the region and promoting sustainable tourism practices. 🌿
You can visit Yalahau Cenote on a Classic 3 Islands Tour (highly recommended!). 🛥️
Have you visited Isla Holbox? Do you have any other favorite destinations in Mexico? 🇲🇽
Budget-friendly Mexico hotel with tropica vibes 😍
Isla Holbox accommodation on a budget (save for later!) 😍
In the past few years, it’s become harder to find decent budget-friendly accommodation—which is why I was so excited to find Hotel Casa Barbara in Isla Holbox. 🌴
This laid-back luxury property offers rooms for less than $100 per night, which gives you access to hammock-lined tropical garden paths, an outdoor pool, free breakfast (coffee/tea + fruit bowl + pastry), free WiFi, and in-room air conditioning, to name a few amenities. 🏊♀️
I highly recommend staying here if you’re looking for comfortable accommodation in Isla Holbox that won’t break the bank! 💸
What is your favorite hotel for luxury on a budget? ✈️
Isla Holbox beach hopping 🏖️
Isla Holbox beach hopping 🏖️
Holbox Island is home to so many stunning beaches, sandbars, and island day trips. A few tips for making the most of your time exploring the sand: 👇
Book a "Classic 3 Island Tour" to visit some of the most stunning locations near Isla Holbox 😍
Spend at least one day beach club/bar hopping (the farther west you go, the friendlier and more affordable the establishment tends to be) 🍹
Make sure you're posted up at one of these beach bars at sunset for a stunning view - often paired with live music 🌇
When I visited in February there was a lot of sargassum (seaweed) on the beach, but you could easily hop over it to enjoy the warm waters. Still, if you want to avoid this, sargassum season typically ends in early summer (though this can always change, so do your research). 🏊♀️
Don't forget the (biodegradable) sun protection! If you're traveling solo and can't reach your back to put on sunscreen, opt for more coverage (like a rashguard top!) 🌞
What Isla Holbox beach hopping tips would you add to this list? 🌴
Beautiful beaches in Isla Holbox, Mexico 🌴
What are your favorite beach destinations? 🏖️
Holbox Island in Mexico is home to some truly stunning sandbars and stretches of coastline - from Playa Holbox to Punta Mosquito and beyond! 😍
