Spirited Woman Blogger Team

Girl Getaways

About this time every year, my girlfriends and I start talking about taking a girl getaway. We've done Vegas and San Francisco in prior years. Next year, I'm flying to Disneyland with a group of gal pals for the Tinker Bell Half Marathon (which is full, by the way, or I'd encourage you to join us). I think spirited women need to get time with each other - away from partners and children, and away from laundry, bills, and work.

I have a few girl getaway dreams in my back pocket. These are the places I haven't gotten to yet, but plan to organize with few friends and make my way as soon as I can. Maybe you'll consider doing the same.

How about a spiritual river rafting/meditation adventure? Row Adventures offers river rafting trips combined with on-land guided meditations and yoga. These are seasonal trips which take place in the spring and summer. Some are women only. All take place on rivers in Idaho and run between $939 and $1,475. Check 'em out. To me it sounds heavenly to get my adrenaline going with adventure and then settle into a meditative, restful state later in the day.

As you may know by now, I love to travel on foot. Another dream I have is of taking a group of pals with me to China to hike the 19th century French explorers' route. Wild China offers a ten-day itinerary exploring this old trail and villages and landmarks it meanders past.

Finally, I've wanted for a very long time to travel to Central America and attend language school for a week or two. I don't need to take my husband along because he already speaks Spanish, but I do have a couple of friends who would be game for a language emersion experience. Guatemala has a number of language schools scattered throughout the country. With the help of Guatamala365.com you can choose the school that offers the amenities and services you're looking for at the price you can afford. I can't think of a better bonding experience with a girlfriend than to muddle through shopping in another language.

What are your best girlfriend trips? Where have you been that you would recommend? Or what's your dream? What have you always wanted to do with a group of pals that will take you away from daily life long enough to refresh and regroup?

Cami Ostman, www.7marathons7continents.com, www.camiostman.net
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Holiday Travel with The Kids

We're at that glorious and exciting time of the year when we pack up our families and hit the road to visit family and friends. The holidays can be a lot of fun, but for many of us, they're filled with chaos, too. There are more people on the roads and in in the airports during the month of December than the rest of the year.

Even if you're a seasoned traveler, it's easy to let anxiety get the better of you as you fight the crowds with your family in tow. Especially for those who travel with children, pre-planning how to stay sane is essential. Here are some suggestions:

Just The Facts Baby has practical, helpful advice listed on their website for parents traveling by air with young children. One of their suggestions is to make sure and book direct flights whenever possible. To me, this is the key to decreasing the stress of air travel regardless of whether or not you have children. It's not always possible, of course, but when you have the option, take it. For what you would pay for a family of four to eat at the airport during a layover, you may be able to buy the convenience of flying directly.

Babyzone has some great tips for keeping little ones busy. Young, wiggly bodies need to stay occupied during long hours on a plane or in a car, and this can be tricky. Preparation is the key. I was once on a flight with a family that didn't have a single toy, book, or video for their tired and fussy three-year-old. The flight was miserable for all of us. In the end, I dug in my own briefcase for paper and pen for the child, and it made all the difference. A little bit of thinking ahead goes a long way.

Winter is Coming! But, Wait - So is Summer!

As winter draws nearer, I grieve the loss of the outdoors (I'm not skiier). Oh, I'll take to the trails around my house for my daily run, but I'll be bundled up and shivering like everyone else. Goodbye Summer. But wait! South of the equator summer is just arriving.

Last year, one of my pals (who has a flexible job and a good deal of wanderlust) took his family to New Zealand for the month of November and tells me I must spend at least one fall or winter in the land of the Kiwis. New Zealand, with its mild spring and summer weather, is a terrific place for an outdoor adventure for those of us in the northern hemisphere (snowbirds excluded, perhaps).

As an avid runner and walker, I'm particularly interested in visiting New Zealand's famous Milford Track. The Milford Track is located in the Fjordland National Park on the South Island of New Zealand near rainforest and mountains on the South Island. Once called "the finest walk in the world," this 53-kilometer "tramping" trail is perfect for a walker who likes to travel light. Along the path, there are "Huts" where travelers can sleep, refresh, and eat. All you need to carry are your toiletries and clothing.

Each day between October and April, 40 permits are granted for walkers to trek from the south end of the trail, which starts at Glade House Wharf, to the north, ending at the Milford Sound.

Unlike other major walkways in the world (such as the West Highland Way in Scotland or the Way of Saint James in Spain), the Milford Track is limited to those who have official permits. If you, like me, plan ahead for the dark winter, consider reserving your permit early.

And while we're talking about New Zealand's South Island, did you know that over half of the country's wineries are located there? You can taste some of the best Sauvignon Blanc in the world, not to mention most other recognizable white varietals, as well as Pinot Noir.

Wine, walking and beautiful views of alpine mountains and fjords are calling me south. What about you? Where will you go to stay warm this winter?

Cami Ostman, www.7marathons7continents.com, www.camiostman.net
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Holiday Movie Faves with A Travelin' Soul

Yes, it's a little early to be thinking about this, but...

I'm neither going away nor going to my hometown for the holidays this year. After last year's travel frenzy, we've been comparative home-bodies this year, and we've decided to stay in our own little abode. But that doesn't mean I won't be traveling in spirit. I'm going to dig out my favorite holiday travel movies and watch them in no particular order. Think: popcorn, hot cocoa, and the rewind button for those scenes you can't get enough of.

Here are my faves:

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation - You've got Chevy Chase and a whole host of other hilarious, fabulous actors managing the holiday stress with a series of botched plans and hazardous electric decorations. This movie makes the rest of us look sane. How long has it been since you've seen it?

Home for the Holidays is a going home movie. The main character, played by Holly Hunter, gets fired from her job and goes home to spend Thanksgiving with her parents and her gay brother while leaving her teenage daughter at home. This isn't a belly-laugh-out-loud film (though it has its moments), but it's full of interactions most of us recognize from our own "going home" holidays. If you haven't seen it, put it in your queue.

The Holiday is a travel/love story. Two women (played by Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslett) in two different countries swap homes for a break from their own lives and fall in love, respectively, with men in their new locations. Jude Law and Jack Black play their love interests. This is a funny, heart-warming romantic comedy that will make you feel happy.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles with Steve Martin and John Candy. Need I say more? This is a classic most of us have seen a dozen times. It's on television a few times every year, or you can even find it at the library, most likely. They don't make 'em like Steve and John anymore. The comedy duo will keep you in side-splitting laughter through the whole film. They're just the best!

What about you? Are you planning virtual travel with a video and a glass of wine? What will you be watching?

Cami Ostman, www.7marathons7continents.com, www.camiostman.net
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Halloween Treats (As in Places to Get Spooked in the U.S.)

I'm a huge fan of Halloween and a Hitchcock aficionado. I love a good scare! If I could get away this year I'd take myself to one of the following haunted houses in celebration of the ghoulish holiday quickly approaching. If you get to one of these, I'd love a review.

Netherworld - located in Atlanta, Georgia, uses a combination of live actors and an almost universal herpetophobia among human beings to freak out its audience. What exactly is "herpetophobia?" Well, it's an irrational fear of reptiles---snakes and lizards to be exact. I myself have had pet reptiles and don't get grossed out easily, but this haunted house looks absolutely horrifying. What fun! Tickets are $22.

The Bates Motel and Haunted Hay Ride - this one I really must get to. It's a classic. That's right, Hitchcock's scariest movie was set at what is now the scariest haunted house in America, according to America Haunts. Located in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, the ride lasts until October 31. Tickets cost between $25 (for a child on a weeknight) to $40 (for an adult on a weekend).

Disney's Haunted Mansion - my very favorite haunted house of all times really has to be located at Disneyland, in Southern California, Walt Disney World in Florida, and in Tokyo Disneyland. A Ghost Host will introduce visitors to his dearly departed friends who take a mild ride through the mansion which is only a little bit scary but a whole lot Disney. Entry to the haunted house is included in the theme park entry fee.

Happy Halloween everyone.

Cami Ostman, www.7marathons7continents.com, www.camiostman.net
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My Three Favorite U.S. Cities

If last week I wrote about my favorite baseball stadiums, I thought this week I'd write about my three top favorite US cities. Admittedly, there are plenty of amazing towns I haven't visited, but I do have a few faves that I would recommend if you're looking for a road trip.
 
Sedona, Arizona: If you've never been to Sedona, you're in for a treat! The red rock formations reverberate with a spiritual energy that is acknowledged worldwide. You can go on spiritual retreat or get a psychic reading at the new age store. But whatever you do, be sure to get out into the hills for a hike. It will renew your soul.

Minneapolis, Minnesota: I especially love the trail that runs along the river and the theater district, but the downtown shopping is pretty great, too. Did you know that Minnesota is home to the Guthrie Theater, one of the foremost theaters in the U.S. for new playwrights to try out their material?

Portland, Oregon: Portland is my neighbor, so I get there often. One of my favorite things to do is to visit Powell's Bookstore where you can spend an entire day browsing and never pass by the same shelf twice. The Saturday Market, a Mecca for funky crafts and funky vendors alike, is a great place hang out. And then, at least once, you really should go get "married" at the Church of Elvis (warning, the website is just as bizarre as the actual place - but it's fun).

Every city has its trademark qualities. What are your favorite towns that I might visit on my next roadtrip?

Cami Ostman, www.7marathons7continents.com, www.camiostman.net
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She Loves Baseball

I'm sitting in my living room watching Texas and Detroit battle it out in the top of the ninth for the American League's pennant. The score is three to three. The fans look exhausted and dead serious, and the pitcher has sweat running down his face. After rain delays and (now it looks like) extra innings, this end-of-the-season game is lasting for six hours! "The X-Factor will not be seen tonight," because of the game, the announcer informs me.

Ah...baseball. America's pastime! The World Series is around the corner and that makes me sad. I'm sad because the end of baseball means the end of summer. Baseball always tells the Spirited Woman in me what time it is. Every year when baseball starts, I rejoice that the warm weather is on the way, and I'm sad in October when the season ends. I thought I would get ready for the inevitability of winter by noting this week in my post my three favorite baseball stadiums. I haven't traveled to every stadium in the country, but I've been to my fair share and, in honor of the game and the World Series around the corner, (and to commemorate the end of summer/beginning of the holidays) I can recommend visitng these. Plan now for next season:

CenturyLink Field in Seattle. Okay, I'll admit to being biased. Seattle is where I learned to enjoy baseball. It's where my ex-husband taught me to keep track of the game on a score card. It's where the old King Dome was eventually blown to smithereens and Qwest Field, now Century Link Field was erected to the delight of demoralized but steadfast Mariners' fans (of which I am one). Anyone who visits Seattle in the spring or summer, really must visit this state-of-the art stadium with its rolling roof and perfect views from every seat.

Travel in the Off-Season!

Travel in the Off-Season! Right now outside my window fog lingers just above the trees. There is enough of a chill inside my house that I have caved in to the fact that it's time to turn the furnace on. Nevertheless, I'm feeling excited because it's time for me to research "off-season" travel opportunities.

Traveling off-season is a terrific way to avoid the crowds of tourist season and to travel more cheaply than you can during peak months. There are drawbacks too, of course. Off-season often means less than desirable weather and therefore, bulkier luggage stuffed with different clothes. It may also mean that certain attractions are closed to the public, so it's important to be informed about your destination.

Here are a few off-season locations I'm dreaming about this winter.

- Check out Matt Barrett's Winter in Greece advice. I love that he gives you specific advice about where to go and what activities to participate in during the off-season. When you travel to a place while there are few other tourists, you'll get the chance to travel in a more "local" way. Don't be afraid to explore beyond the suggestions of your travel guidebooks. On this site, Matt gives some great suggestions for alternative attractions.
- One place I've always wanted to go during the off-season is London. After years of reading and enjoying Dickens, I've developed the belief that London is only "real" if it is damp. Simply London agrees with me and offers you all kinds of links to help you plan your London trip. You'll want to bring your long johns and fuzzy muffs, but you'll enjoy the hot toddy all the more for droplets of ice on your eyelashes!
- If a winter trip to Asia sounds like fun, China has a lot to offer. For good information on winter tours, check out Visit Our China. If backpacking is more your cup of tea, I recommend visiting China Off Season. This is a simple site set up by a couple of European travelers who recently took a backpacking trip through China. They offer insights, links, suggestions, and ideas from their very recent expedition. I'm a big fan of learning from others' mistakes. Reading travel blogs is a great way to do this and China Off Season is straight to the point.

And while winter is upon us in the Northern Hemisphere, you can travel off-season even during summer. Remember that there is half a world south of the equator too (but that's for another entry). What are your favorite off-season travel locations?

Cami Ostman, www.7marathons7continents.com, www.camiostman.net
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Silent Retreats

My life has been busy lately. Like a lot of spirited women, I go in many different directions all at once. Nowadays I'm working on a new book, leading workshops, seeing my psychotherapy clients, keeping up on my blogs, and promoting all my projects constantly. All of this I do while maintaining a relationship and keeping up on all my household chores (Oh, and have I mentioned that I'm a runner?). Many women do all that I've listed and add children to the mix, too. It's a vibrant, exciting life. But it's tiring sometimes.

Just this last weekend, two of my colleagues and I put on a one-day retreat we called "Catching Your Second Wind." Women who had finally gotten their children started in school for the year showed up to remember how to take care of themselves. After the workshop, my co-presenters and I toasted one another, talked endlessly about how well the retreat went, and then went to our respective homes to collapse. Later, I got to thinking about how I could really use a few days without words. My whole life (happily) consists of writing, listening, and talking - all day, every day.

I started doing a little research on silent retreat centers. Wouldn't it be nice every year to take a few days off from words? For me it would. So here's what I found. Four places in particular called to me. I share them with you because sometimes the best kind of travel is when you go inside yourself and let your soul rest. If you've had a good experience at one of these or some other retreat center I haven't listed, please share!

Mid America Dharma is locacted in Kansas City, Missouri. Their specialty is teaching people how to practice insight-oriented meditation. They offer both residential and nonresidential retreats. Their website contains a wealth of resources for the beginning meditation practitioner. Even if all you need is a few hours to yourself, check them out for ideas and guidance.

Hazy Moon Zen Center in Los Angeles focuses on classical Zen mediation. Through teachings and community "sittings" they guide even beginners in the Zen way of contemplation. Hazy Moon boasts that they offer more retreat options than any other Zen center in America. Check out their retreat schedule to see if one is right for  you.

Cloud Mountain Retreat Center resides in the southwest corner of Washington State. This Buddhist retreat center provides for sitting AND walking mediations. On 15-acres of wooded land, one could experience a deep quiet that would renew the heart and soul.

Ignatius House is in Atlanta, Georgia, and it's a Catholic retreat center. All faiths are welcome, of course. And this retreat center has the most flexibility of the ones I've listed here. You can go for an individual retreat or a group retreat. The offer spiritual direction or they'll leave you alone if you prefer. The grounds look beautiful, too.

Happy silence!

Cami Ostman, www.7marathons7continents.com, www.camiostman.net
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Mongolia - A New Travel Destination?

Did you know that Mongolia has one of the fastest growing economies in the world? Recently, huge stores of gold, coal and silver have been discovered and are being mined in this formerly communist, landlocked country. Developers are flooding in to make a killing by mining these natural resources, sadly risking the survival of one of the most extraordinary cultures in the world. Mongolians are largely nomadic, still following their herds to wherever food can be found.

Now is a good time to travel to Mongolia---before the culture is completely transformed by economic development.

I'm lucky because I have a dear friend who is not only Mongolian but an avid activist on behalf of her country of origin. Recently my pal, Bolor, made a trip to Mongolia with a group of travelers from my town. I wasn't privileged to be a member of the team, but I've been a good listener to the travel reports of those who recently returned. And I must say that Mongolia is high on my list for international travel.

Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country in the world: 603,909 square miles and only 2.75 million people. So what does one do when traveling to Mongolia? Here are a few things on my list:
- Attend the Naadam Festival in the city of Ulaan Baatar (Boojum Expeditions has tours. The Naadam Festival is a week-long sporting event in July featuring horse racing and wrestling. Full of colorful outfits and national camaraderie, the Naadam Festival is something not to be missed if you visit the land of Genghis Kahn.
- Participate in the Sunrise to Sunset Ultrarun in early August. Now I'll grant you that running an ultra marathon is not everyone's cup of tea, but for those of us who like to see the world on foot, the Sunrise to Sunset touts itself as the most beautiful 100 kilometer run (about 62 miles) on earth. Participants trek beside the Hovsgol Lake, taking part in eco tourism as they race.
- Stay in a traditional Mongolian Ger (we call them yurts). When I finally get to Mongolia, I plan to stay with Mongolian nationals, but for those who may not have such connections, staying in the traditional round housing near the Kerlen River with the option of going horseback riding and fishing during the day is a great option.

I'm deeply in love with traveling in a manner I call "low to the ground." I try to participate in a culture as much as I can when I travel abroad. I look forward to doing so in Mongolia just as soon as I can.

Cami Ostman, www.7marathons7continents.com, www.camiostman.net
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