

The Right to Roam
Scandinavia has many social advantages that we hear about in America – the right to education and the right to health care access are a few examples. But there’s another set of rights that they have, and I find them fascinating. Some of these Nordic countries, Finland included, have what is called the constitutional “Right to Roam,” or “Jokamiehenoikeus” in Finnish. “Everyman’s Right.”
The translation of this Right makes many people – in America, at least - uncomfortable.


Appreciation or Appropriation?
“Cultural appropriation, often framed as cultural misappropriation, is a concept in sociology dealing with the adoption of the elements of a minority culture by members of the dominant culture. It is distinguished from equal cultural exchange due to the presence of a colonial element and imbalance of power.” – Wikipedia
Last year my husband and I married in Yirgalem, Ethiopia, in a traditional Sidama tribe ceremony. The whole thing cost us about $375.00 USD, including a cak


Hiking the Inca Trail
So several people have asked me to post advice for tackling the Inca trail. I learned a lot, but I was also very prepared due to many years of horse trekking and camping experience. My guide was appreciative of my efficiency and minimalism. 1. Arrive in Cusco at least two days prior to acclimatize, unless you are already coming from somewhere at least 10,000 feet or higher. 2. Bring trekking pants and a trekking shirt. [This means lightweight, quick drying and breathable]. Al