Travel By Design: Nature & Outdoors

“The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. I firmly believe that nature brings solace in all troubles.”
– Anne Frank
Being outdoors in nature is an elixir for our souls.
The love for being outdoors stems from a sense of wonder and awe at the beautiful tapestry of nature. Listening to the quiet flow of a stream, enjoying a gentle breeze, hearing the sounds of crashing wave, or the gentle melody of birds singing are all wonderful reminders of nature‘s precious gifts.
Being outdoors in nature is inspiring. The outdoors also provides a powerful motivator to reach the summit–literally or figuratively.
Walk in nature as you enjoy these stories.

Ski Trip Secrets: Insider Tips For An Unforgettable Winter Holiday
A ski vacation is more than just a simple break from the bustle of the world – it is an adventure that can enrich your life in ways you might not have imagined. If you’re already a seasoned skier, you’ll already be well aware of how incredible the experience can … Read more Read more
The World Nature & Outdoors Sports
Frozen Fun: 10 Top Winter Activities in Fort Collins
Fort Collins, a picturesque haven nestled in Colorado, bursts into a wonderland of activity when winter cloaks its landscapes in sparkling white. The city, known for its lively community and scenic beauty, is not one to retreat into hibernation as the colder months roll in. Instead, it invites locals and … Read more Read more
United States Nature & Outdoors
Central Florida’s Autumn Adventures: Things To Do in 2023
Autumn in Central Florida is a magical time that unveils a different dimension of the Sunshine State. When most think of Florida, images of sunny beaches and swaying palm trees come to mind. However, fall activities in Florida present a varied tapestry that contradicts this stereotype. The season transforms the … Read more Read more
United States Nature & Outdoors Food & Drink
Exploring the history and heritage of the Clayoquot Sound
By Sara PerilloWhy do certain experiences resonate with us the way they do? I spent a single day kayaking around the Clayoquot Sound – such an insignificant amount of time – and yet the experience was Read more
Canada Nature & Outdoors
Three Desert Gardens to Visit near Phoenix
By Breana JohnsonWhen you think “Phoenix,” you probably picture a city surrounded by desolate wilderness. Tourists rarely arrive with a list of gardens on their itinerary. However, you may be surprised to learn that the Valley of the Sun offers many gorgeous garden experiences! Read more
United States Nature & Outdoors
A hike to the underrated Shengjergj waterfall of Albania
By Thomas SpäterShengjergj waterfall, which is locally called “Ujëvara e Shën Gjergjit”,offers an amazing 30-meters drop with breathtaking stratified rock formations surrounding the scenery. The water comes straight from the “Mali me Gropa Mountain” and is especially impressive during the fall-to-spring season, when rain increases and snow melts from the mountain tops. Read more
Europe Adventure Landscape Nature & Outdoors
Grab a Field Guide: Birdwatching Enhances Your Connection to Place
By Cara Siera“Once you begin bird-watching, no street, sky, or forest ever looks the same: Birds are everywhere, and their comings and goings tell stories most humans aren’t attuned to.” Read more
The World Nature & Outdoors
The Seven Rila Lakes – A cold and very challenging Bulgarian winter hike
By Thomas SpäterIn November 2021, my best friend and I decided to visit the beautiful country of Bulgaria. We knew Bulgaria isn’t really a place for winter vacation (unless you like skiing and snowboarding), but wanted to check out a specific destination: The Seven Rila Lakes! Read more
Europe Adventure Nature & Outdoors
Bedford Peak – A hidden gem with a breathtaking 360° view
By Thomas SpäterBedford Peak can be reached via a 12 km (7 miles) roundtrip hike and is located at an elevation of 1161 meters (3800 feet), offering an outstanding 360° view over the surrounding mountain range as well as the adjacent valleys. On days with good visibility, Lake Matthews can even be … Read more Read more
United States Adventure Nature & Outdoors
Red Rock Canyon – A perfect getaway from Las Vegas
By Thomas SpäterVisiting the beautiful Red Rock Canyon, an often-overlooked national conservation area that is located only 15 miles outside Las Vegas and features hiking and trails, plants and wildlife, outstanding geology and camping. Read more
United States Nature & Outdoors
Historical Highlights and Attractions of Houston
By Courtney CampbellThe city of Houston, Texas is currently the fourth largest city in the United States. It serves as a twenty-first century melting pot, welcoming a myriad of cultures, communities, and ethnicities. Read more
United States Nature & Outdoors History
Mount Ijen: A Tale Of Toxic Trail
By Bandita MukherjeeI have come here in East Java to experience a midnight hike to the volcanic crater of Kawah Ijen and watch the blue fire created by the spontaneous combustion of subterranean gases and toxic yellow smoke. Read more
Asia Nature & Outdoors
Palatinate Forest – A hidden gem in southwest Germany
By Thomas SpäterWhenever I read about people planning a trip through Europe, Germany seems to be frequently skipped or, at least, at the end of the queue behind Spain, Italy, or France. And those who do decide to visit Germany, sadly often focus on Berlin and Munich only. Read more
Europe Landscape Nature & Outdoors
Valley of Fire Slot Canyon – A geological masterpiece
By Thomas Später“What could it mean?” was crossing my mind as I carefully tried to interpret the engravings covering an entire wall of fiery red sandstone within the Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada, USA). It was 10 AM, and I found myself standing on a metal platform in front of a … Read more Read more
United States Nature & Outdoors History
Exploring the Enchanting Tamanique Waterfalls in El Salvador
By Thomas SpäterEl Salvador, though compact in size, boasts a plethora of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. Among its treasures lies the breathtaking Tamanique waterfalls, nestled deep within a tropical forest, approximately 55 km from the international airport, 16 km from El Tunco (a renowned beach town), or 40 km from … Read more Read more
Central and South America Adventure Nature & Outdoors