My response is always the same. That’s an impossible question to answer. It’s akin to when people ask me what my favorite country is. For me, I love every country I have been to for totally different reasons, so it’s impossible to name just one. And for someone looking to jump into the amazing world of mirrorless camera systems, there is many factors that will have to be considered before making your purchase. What kind of photographer are you? Are you a landscape fanatic or just looking to capture those every day moments? What is most important to you in a camera and lens system? Megapixels? Speed? Compact size and light weight? And the most important question of them all, how much are you willing to invest in your photography passion?

Well I am here to help you make the right decision that is best for you. I have broken down the list into the ‘type’ of photographer that the kit is meant for, as well as the budget that photographer is willing to invest.

This guide is meant to be a jumping off point for your decision, and doesn’t answer in depth questions. If you have any questions about what might be right for you and your style, please feel free to send me a DM on my Instagram or send me an email. I would love to help you get the right system to fuel your creativity!  

General Gary – Travel And Documentary Photographer

I am starting with this genre, as I think it is the most descriptive fit for me and my style, and I also think this is what many of my readers would describe themselves as. We love to travel, and we want to have the best all around kit to best document what we see across the world.

Under $3,000

Sony a7 III Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera Optical with 3-Inch LCD, Black – $1,799 ($200 Off!)

I have said it before and I will say it again. In my opinion, the Sony A7III is by far the best all around camera on the market, especially for the ridiculously fair sub $2,000 price point. And right now, it’s on sale for $200 off! I am not going to get technical in this post, as there are plenty of other resources online to analyze specs. But what I can tell you is that I use a variety of Sony cameras in many different locations and projects around the world, and the Sony A7III delivers an absurd amount of features, killer full frame image quality, and fantastic low-light performance. The A7II was a great camera, don’t get me wrong. But the third generation of Sony cameras added the two most sought after features that hard core photo enthusiasts wanted. A better battery and dual SD card slots. While the dual card slots are a great addition for wedding photographers and photojournalists, I mainly just take advantage of the fact that I don’t have to switch SD cards nearly as often. But the one thing that always drove me crazy about the earlier versions of the Sony mirrorless cameras was the horrid battery performance. It wasn’t rare for me to blow through 5-8 batteries a day when on assignment. Luckily Sony listened to our concerns and redeveloped a bigger battery system that lasts forever! If you aren’t a hardcore landscape photographer who wants the freedom to crop 61 Megapixels, than most likely, the A7III is a camera that will fit your needs. This is also the one camera I continuously recommend for casual photographers who are looking into upgrading to the full frame universe.

Sony 24-70mm f/4 Vario-Tessar T FE OSS Interchangeable Full Frame Zoom Lens ($798)

When people ask me about which ‘everyday’ lens they should get, the 24-70mm is always my answer. This is by far the most useful walk around lens that will be able to let you capture wide angle shots at 24mm while also getting in closer to the action and creating background blur (bokah) for portrait photos at 70mm. Now, Sony makes two variations of the 24-70mm lens, this f/4 and the f/2.8. While the f/2.8 is an amazing lens, it’s also three times the price of the f/4. So unless budget is not a problem and you really need the faster performance and better low light capabilities of the f/2.8, this f/4 should fit the needs of most casual photographers.

Under $6,000

Allright, so you really want to up your photography game? Well, believe it or not, you can get a killer Sony kit of one full frame camera and 4 lenses for under $6,000, covering the entire focal range spectrum from super wide angle 12mm to super telephoto 200mm. 

Sony a7 III Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera Optical with 3-Inch LCD, Black – $1,799 ($200 Off!)

See Description Above

Sony 24-70mm f/4 Vario-Tessar T FE OSS Interchangeable Full Frame Zoom Lens – $798 ($100 Off!)

See Description Above

Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G OSS Interchangeable Lens for Sony Alpha Cameras ($1,398)

For someone just starting their photography journey, a 70-200mm lens is a lens you didn’t know you needed to have. But that all changes once you have one. The telephoto focal range allows for great bokeh, even though the minimum aperture is f/4 as opposed to f/2.8. The rule is, the more telephoto the photo is taken at, the more natural background blur is generated. In addition to being a nice portrait lens, the 70-200 doubles as a great landscape lens. While most think of landscapes only being photographed with a wide angle lens, once you start zooming in on dramatic snow capped mountains with storm clouds swirling, you will quickly realize some of your favorite landscape photos are being captured with this lens.

Sony – FE 12-24mm F4 G Wide-angle Zoom Lens – $1,673 ($100 Off!)

This. Lens. Is. Fun! Before using the Sony 12-24mm lens, I was always limited to 16mm being my widest focal range. Now, 16mm is wide, but not nearly as wide as those extra 4mm get you! 12mm is SUPER wide. And the best thing about this lens? At 12mm, there is not much fish-eye effect, which is common in most lenses this wide. While this is a great lens, there is a better wide angle alternative for landscape shooters that we will cover below. But if you want to round out your casual travel kit, the 12-24 is a great lens.

Under $10,000

Break out the rewards credit card! If you are serious about your photography and have the financial means, the Sony A7III all around bad ass camera can be paired with Sony’s absurdly beautiful G-Master lenses. Yes, they are expensive. But treat them well and this kit could last you decades. 

Sony a7 III Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera Optical with 3-Inch LCD, Black – $1,799 ($200 Off!)

See Description Above

Sony FE 24-70 mm F2.8 G Master – $2,198

As discussed above, the 24-70mm range is the ultimate ‘one lens’ solution. It will cover most situations you find yourself in, and with the G Master f/2.8 lens, Sony took their most popular lens and made it faster and sharper, leaving us pros drooling over the resulting images.

Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master OSS Lens – $2,598

As with the above 24-70 G Master, Sony took a lens that wasn’t broken (the 70-200 f/4) and just made it 100 times better. This lens is as close to telephoto perfection!

Sony – FE 16-35mm F2.8 G Master Wide-angle Zoom Lens – $2,198

We haven’t talked about the landscape photographer’s focal range yet, but I intentionally saved it for this lens. While the Sony 16-35 f/4 wide angle is a decent lens, I have noticed a huge difference in my landscape images when taken with the 16-35mm G-Master f/2.8. If you are serious about landscape photography, this should be the first lens in your bag.

Casual Carl

Casual Carl is just getting into photography. Casual Carl wants to hone his new found passion with an entry level mirrorless camera that is light, easy to use and won’t break the bank. Well don’t you worry Casual Carl, Sony has you covered.

Under $500

Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera 24.3MP SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) w/16-50mm Power Zoom Lens – $448

Normally I wouldn’t put a pre-made kit in this buyer’s guide, but since the kit with the 16-50mm zoom lens is only $50 more than the camera itself, it’s a no-brainer. The Sony a6000 is one of the best-selling APS-C cameras in Sony’s lineup, and for good reason. It’s the perfect camera for Casual Carl. Now, there is a big difference between APS-C sensors (cropped) and 35mm sensors (full frame), so if you aren’t sure of the difference, a quick Google search will give you all the information you need.

Under $800

Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera 24.3MP SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) w/16-50mm Power Zoom Lens – $448

See Description Above

Sony E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 Lens – $348

Well, you got your 16-50mm focal range with that insane Black Friday sale on the a6000 kit, so why not complete your go anywhere/see anything focal range with the versatile 55-210mm?

Under $1,600

Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera 24.3MP SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) w/16-50mm Power Zoom Lens – $448

See Description Above

Sony E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 Lens – $348

See Description Above

Sony – E 10-18mm F4 OSS Wide-angle Zoom Lens – $798 ($52 Off!)

While the kit 16mm lens is wide, it’s not wide enough for some of the landscape photos you may want to take. That’s where the beautiful 10-18mm comes in. If you didn’t read the crop vs full frame articles yet, the most important thing to know is that the focal length of lenses is not equal. Because the a6000 is a crop sensor, all of the lens focal lengths should be multiplied by about 1.5 to give you the 35mm (full frame) equivalent. So essentially, this 10-18mm crop sensor lens is about about 16-30mm full frame lens. Bottom line? This is the best (and only) ultra wide angle for the Sony APS-C system.

Under $3,700

Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera 24.3MP SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) w/16-50mm Power Zoom Lens – $448

See Description Above

Sony – E 10-18mm F4 OSS Wide-angle Zoom Lens – $798 ($52 Off!)

See Description Above

Sony Alpha 16-55mm F2.8 G Standard Zoom APS-C Lens – $1,398

Now, I know what you are saying. “But Michael, you just told me to buy the kit with almost the exact same focal range kit lens” Yes, yes I did. But that is because it’s a great price. You are essentially getting a $200 lens for $50. But, just because the focal length is similar doesn’t meant the lenses are equal. Just like any product, there is high quality builds and lower cost builds. The kit lens is lower cost, while this lens is KILLER. The difference in quality is going to be night and day. So if you want the quality and have the financial means, get this lens and sell the kit lens, give it to a friend, or keep it as a backup.

Sony Alpha 70-350mm F4.5-6.3 G OSS Super-Telephoto APS-C Lens – $998

This long range focal lens can get you insanely close to the action, whatever it is. On Safari? Zoom right in on Simba’s eye with this 105mm-525mm full frame equivalent. Any time you have a focal range that large, photo quality can suffer a bit. But hey, Casual Carl just wants to photograph an elephant without getting trampled.

Casual Carl – Alternate APS-C Camera Bodies

The reason why I made all of these bundles with the A6000 camera is because it’s an incredible deal for Black Friday Weekend. But, if Casual Carl wants a newer, more advanced, and more expensive, APS-C Body, check out these two alternatives. 

Sony Alpha A6600 Mirrorless Camera – $1,398

Real time tracking and eye auto focus, for both people and animals, is incredible for a crop sensor camera of this size. With 5-axis in-body optical image stabilization, the Sony a6600 is about as close to a full frame camera as you can get while staying in the APS-C world.

Sony Alpha A6100 Mirrorless Camera – $648 ($100 Off!)

There really isn’t much difference between the A6600 and the A6100, and for more than half the price, the a6100 is a GREAT camera to pick up at $100 off it’s retail price.

Casual Carl Goes Full Frame For Under $1,000!

Just because you are casual and don’t want to sell your car to join the full-frame community doesn’t mean that you can’t with this incredible kit! 

Sony Alpha a7II Mirrorless Digital Camera with 28-70mm Lens – $998 ($732 Off!)

Remember when I complained above about the second generation battery life? Well that still applies, but does it really matter when you can get a brand spanking new full frame Sony Mirrorless camera AND a kit lens for over $700 off? For just $998, this is a STEAL. You could also get just the A7II body for just $100 less and pair it with any of the other full frame lenses mentioned above or below.

Landscape Larry

We all know Landscape Larry. He will be at the overlook for sunrise 2.5 hours early just to claim his spot. And rightfully so, as he has some awesome photos to take with his Sony Landscape Kit! 

Under $4,000

Sony a7R III: 42.4MP Full Frame Mirrorless Camera – $2,498 ($300 Off!)

The R Series of the Sony Alpha A7 cameras were made for landscape photographers. Higher Megapixels and more dynamic range give landscape shooters all the tools they need to capture those stunning sunrises and sunsets. While you can get a pretty incredible deal on the A7II at the moment, I am going to only recommend the A7rIII and A7RIV strictly due to the battery. As I mentioned, the old batteries don’t last long at all under normal conditions, so imagine how quick they go when shooting frigid landscapes. There is nothing worse than having to take off your gloves to change a battery every 15 minutes in negative temperatures, trust me. Save yourself the pain and get the newer models.

Sony 16-35mm Vario-Tessar T FE F4 ZA OSS E-Mount Lens $1,248 ($100 Off!)

Well you are Landscape Larry, aren’t you? You need a landscape lens! While not as sharp as the 16-35 f/2.8 G Master, at almost $1,000 less expensive, you won’t really care about the minor differences in pixels for those epic landscapes, will you?

Samyang 14mm F2.8 Ultra Wide Lens for Sony E-Mount – $249

Why am I including a manual focus and manual aperture lens in Landscape Larry’s kit? Because this is the go to Astro Photography lens for many photographers. Sure, there are comparable lenses that take great nightscapes. But they have bells and whistles and cost thousands more. I have been using this for my astro photos for almost a decade now, and it simply gets the job done. And at a constant $249, it is easy on the wallet.

Under $8,600

Sony α7R IV Full-frame Mirrorless Camera – $3,498

The King! My dream camera. The A7rIV takes an already unbelievable A7rIII and makes it even better. The biggest perk is also its biggest problem? The 61 megapixels will have you pixel peeping the fangs of a sprinting jaguar, but will also be very bad for your external hard drive budget.

Sony – FE 16-35mm F2.8 G Master Wide-angle Zoom Lens – $2,198

The ultimate landscape lens! See description above.

Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master OSS Lens – $2,598

Get in tight on those majestic mountains!

Samyang 14mm F2.8 Ultra Wide Lens for Sony E-Mount – $249

I mean, you spent $3,500 on the camera. Save a couple bucks on this perfectly capable astro lens.

Prime Pam

The older I get, the more I become Prime Pam. I love prime lenses. The look you get from prime lenses just can’t be recreated with zoom lenses.Go ahead and argue with me. I will just sit here enjoying my dreamy prime photos.  Not to mention, prime lenses are much faster aperture, making for easier and cleaner low light photography. 

Under $8,600

Sony a7 III Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera Optical with 3-Inch LCD, Black – $1,799 ($200 Off!)

I am making the A7III big in this final kit, because I cannot stress enough how amazing this camera is for the price. And right now, at $200, you should NOT miss it.

Sony E-mount FE 24mm F1.4 GM Full Frame Wide-angle Prime Lens – $1,398

This may be my all time favorite lens. I shot almost exclusively on it while adventuring in Morocco and Jordan for five weeks, and my images were killer. In my opinion, a 24mm prime is the best photojournalism lens, and this incredible glass from Sony is one of the best 24mm ever made.

Sony Distagon T FE 35mm f/1.4 ZA Standard-Prime Lens – $1,498 ($100 Off)

This lens, like the 24mm, is glorious. A standard focal length, the 35mm will get you sharp images while not being in your subject’s face. Because of the de-click aperture ring in both this lens as well as the 24mm, these also make great video lenses.

Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM Lens – $1,798

The ultimate portrait lens. There is something about the look of people through an 85mm prime that can never be copied. If photographing people is your thing, this is the lens for you.

FE 135mm F1.8 G Master Telephoto Prime Lens – $2,098

I wish I had this lens. Sadly, I do not. But I did get to use Sony Artisan Colby Brown’s while we were in Mongolia, and this may be my new favorite portrait lens over the 85mm.

The Bill Gates Billionaire Bonus!

Let’s be real. None of us can afford these unicorn lenses. But, if, by some off chance you can, please purchase through my affiliate links and I will be your best friend forever. And I will buy the beer. 

Sony 400mm F/2.8-2.8 Fixed Prime Camera Lens – $11,998

*Heart Eye Emoji*

Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS Lens

*Heart Eye Emoji AF*

The post The Ultimate Sony Camera and Lens Buyer’s Guide For Every Budget appeared first on Resource Travel.

Oh, and on top of all these awesome products, 10% of each sale goes to a variety of charities. Since day one, the 5 Day Deal flash sales have generated over 1.6 MILLION dollars for charities around the world. So while you are becoming a better photographer this winter, you will also be helping to make the world a little better place.

Aurora HDR 2019 ​

So, I have a confession to make. When I first started in photography over a decade ago, I was always baked. HDR baked! For some reason, I thought those horrible, oversaturated, bad acid-trip HDRs looked cool. And when I uploaded them to my Instagram, my non-photographer friends kept commenting about how cool they looked too, so down the HDR rabbit hole I went. Only as my style progressed did I realize two things. One, my editing was horrible. And two, HDR is simply combining shadow and highlight information from multiple exposures, and when done properly, can increase the dynamic range of a photo in a natural look. From all I have heard about Aurora HDR, it’s a great program to help you blend the exposures together with a finished product that looks natural. Of course, I am sure there are some presets and sliders that will help you obtain the bad acid trip look, but for most of us, working with a TIFF file loaded with light information will be enough.

Joel Grimes: ‘The Artist’ ​

Joel Grimes is a master at his craft. His work is jaw dropping, beautiful and clean. While it is not the type of photography I do (studio lighting, composites), there is no doubt the man knows his stuff when it comes to finding inspiration, making a vision become reality, and running a successful photography business. So when he touches on all of this and more in a 12 lesson course, you sit down and take extensive notes.

Secrets to Amazing Photos from the Masters

As I mentioned, I have been a full time photographer for a decade. I feel like I know my stuff. But, there is ALWAYS something new to learn. And the best place to learn is from other photographers. Marc Silber has condensed years of knowledge he has gained from some of the world’s best known photographers into a complete course. While I feel I may know most of what is outlined, as I said, seeing how other’s in your field approach their art is always a valuable learning experience.

Get Camera Confident

I have known and respected Lauren Bath for years. She knows travel, and she knows social media. So much so, she was able to leave her stable income as a chef to jump into the travel photography business and quickly made her Instagram one of the better curated and most followed on the mobile platform. So like above, I may know a good amount of what Lauren teaches in this course, but to learn her angle is a valuable lesson I will absorb for a long time.

Start to Finish 1&2

Ryan Dyar is a landscape photography god, and this course is exactly what I need. I take a lot of landscape images, and 0.01% of them ever see Photoshop. Why? Because, quite frankly, I don’t know how to use Photoshop! Not like the master landscape photographers, anyway. Focal length blend, focus stacking and luminosity masking are three things that have been on my ‘Need to Master’ list for years now. I can say without a doubt, this will probably be the most valuable product for me in this year’s bundle.

Photoshop For Lightroom Users

As mentioned above, almost all of my editing is done in Lightroom. While it works great, there is many ways to make my photos even more dynamic by bringing them into Photoshop for some additional tweaks. Combined with Ryan Dyar’s above class, I look forward to finally being confident and efficient in my Photoshop editing.

Charity Bonus Additions

The below three products are only offered in the Charity Bonus Bundle, which is another amazing deal, bringing together over $1,200 worth of products for just $24.

Master Collection: 200 Creative Overlays

If you haven’t met the team behind Pro EDU, well, I feel sorry for you. They are maybe the most fun group in the business. But not only are they fun, they maybe the hardest working guys in the photo educator business. So while I have never used overlays in my work before, watching their trailer about how it can add drama to your images has me frothing at the mouth and thinking about all of the possibilities with some of my older photos sitting stagnant in my Lightroom catalog.

Astrophotography: Post Processing the Milky Way

Oh man, I love love love shooting the Milky Way! Who doesn’t? Surprisingly, photographing the Milky Way is actually much easier than most people think. But, EDITING Milky Way photos? Now that’s a major pain in the you know what. Luckily the awesome photographer Nick Page gives us a step by step guide on how to make those Milky Way images pop off the screen, brining your viewers on a stargazing adventure like no other.

Understanding Exposure & Your DSLR

I have been leading photography workshops for over 7 years now, and the first thing I recommend to my team members and the last thing I leave them with is these words. “Read Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson!” In my opinion, it is the bible of mastering photography. I learned my way around a camera and making an ‘exposure’ with this book, and still read it every year to refresh myself on the core fundamentals of photography, which also helps me clearly convey these lessons as a photo educator. I cannot stress it enough. Read this book, and read it often.

So there you have it! This year’s 5 Day Deal is jam packed with some insane goodies, at an even more insane price. So go on, get yourself a Pumpkin Spiced Latte, but a log on the fire, and improve your photography today!

The post 9 Photography Tools I Am Excited About That Won’t Break the Bank appeared first on Resource Travel.

The entire collection of video software programs, educational tutorials, video music, and LUTs would run you around $1,800 if purchased separately. But for the next five days only, the bundle can be had for a remarkable 95% off, costing just $89. Do I make a small commission if you purchase from my links here? You betcha. But that doesn’t mean that this isn’t a phenomenal deal on video tutorials, tools and resources. I myself will be buying this and taking advantage of all of the resources included. But, these are the five I am most excited about.

The post Seven Video Creator Tools I Am Excited About That Won’t Break the Bank appeared first on Resource Travel.

So, with as often as I am traveling, when Sony launched the tiny RX0 II, I knew I wanted to pick one up. With it’s 15.3 MP Exmor RS CMOS sensor, rugged and waterproof body, support for internal 4k video and a brand new built-in time-lapse mode, I knew I couldn’t test it just anywhere! I had to find a place that not only allowed me to see what it was capable of capturing, but that challenged the device as well. To me the answer was obvious! I needed to take the RXO II with me one of my favorite mountainous ranges in the world, Southern Patagonia.

After using the camera extensively for weeks, I really felt that the RXO II is an ideal camera for travelers who wish to pack light, yet want strong photo and video quality. Below is just a few of the reasons why I loved traveling with the Sony RXO II.

Small, Lightweight Package

One of the first things I noticed about the RX0 II is just how small and portable it truly is. I can easily fit two or three RX0 II’s in the palm of my hand. Weighing just 4.7 oz, it is also incredibly light, although it feels solidly built. Because of its size, I was able to bring it with me just about everywhere throughout my travels around Patagonia, without even thinking about it. Often, I would just throw it in the pocket of my winter coat. To me, it is one of those devices that is so portable, that I have to actively think of reasons why I wouldn’t want to bring it with me, which is in stark contrast to how most photographers think about their gear.

Easy Setup

Throughout my time in Patagonia, I paired my RX0 II with a small, lightweight Joby tripod, which allowed me to unobtrusively position the RX0 II anywhere I needed it to go. With a tripod mount on the bottom of the camera, it was incredibly easy to attach. The addition of the rear articulating LCD screen helped make this a perfect combo, as I could still see the screen from just about any angle.

Impressive Photo and Video Quality

While you are limited to a fixed 24mm f/4 lens, the power of the 15.3 MP Exmor RS CMOS sensor is pretty amazing, which shouldn’t be a surprise as it is the same sensor found in the popular Sony RX 100 series. The AWR Sony raw files coming out of the RX0 II give you a lot of room to play with in post processing and offer tac sharp results as you can see below.

Professional Looking and Easy to Use Time-lapse Video

One of the things, I am most excited about with the RXO II is creating time-lapse clips. With Sony’s new built-in Intervalometer, I now have the ability to easily shoot a variety of different kinds of time-lapses with ease. When coupled with its unobtrusive size, I found myself setting up time-lapse much more than I normally would with my larger Sony mirrorless cameras.

The Articulating Rear LCD

One of the most requested features with nearly every Sony camera is to have a rear LCD that not only articulates, but that fully flips as well. While some people might get excited about this feature because it allows you to easily take a selfie, I think the more exciting use case would be for Vloggers that hope to use the tiny RX0 II for their portable daily travel camera.

WiFi Transfer on the Go

When you are on the road, there are times when you want to get the content you just shot right away so that you can upload it to Instagram or Facebook. When you pair the RX0 II with your smartphone using the Imaging Edge App (Android & IOS), you can easily transfer JPEG and Video files (even 4k) to your device of choice. It is important to note that you currently can not transfer your Sony AWR raw files using this method.

So, all in all, I loved my time with the Sony RXO II. While it can never replace my full Sony mirrorless kit, the camera delivers stunning quality in a tiny package, making it perfect to take on almost any adventure, whether it be as your main camera or a secondary camera to capture quick wide angle photos on the go, time-lapse video or to take selfie or record a Vlog.

Follow Colby Brown on his website, Instagram and Facebook.

Purchase the Sony RXO II through Amazon or B&H Photo.

The post 6 Reasons Why The Sony RX0 II Is An Ideal Travel Camera appeared first on Resource Travel.

On his website, Studer describes that there is a very deep and meaningful reason behind the photo series and short film.

My intention with ‘Space to Roam’ was not to necessarily focus on the astronaut, but rather to showcase the otherworldly scenery found in Southwestern America’s public lands in hopes of protecting them.
Just a couple days ago, an ex oil & gas lobbyist was appointed to lead the US Interior Department…a huge threat to America’s public lands. I strongly feel like we need to preserve them for future generations to experience.

While Studer has chosen not to disclose the locations used in the production with ‘astronaut’ Kyle Hague, delicate landscapes like this are sprinkled in the American Southwest, which makes Studer’s mission for trying to help preserve them an important one. With the recent downsizing of Bear’s Ears National Monument, there is no more crucial time to speak up about the importance of your public lands then now.

Follow Andrew Studer on his website, Instagram and Facebook. 

The post Astronaut Photo Series Aims To Help Preserve The American Southwest’s Otherwordly Landscapes appeared first on Resource Travel.

The photographer behind the image, Ami Vitale, is a well-known documentarian who photographs have appeared in countless international publications, but most notably, National Geographic. For the Nikon Ambassador, her interest in photography started as a passport to meet new people and experience cultures all over the world. But, as her travels increased, Vitale’s lens became a tool to educate and raise awareness for the causes that she found herself gravitating too. 10 years ago, that passion found a main focus. African wildlife and the critically endangered rhino.

Over the years, Vitale has told both uplifting and heartbreaking stories about the rhinos plight. And now, Vitale wants to include us in the story. In partnership with the online fundraising platform, Omaze, Vitale is bringing two lucky people to join her in Kenya to visit the last two living female northern white rhinos at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. And best of all? Even if you do not win the sweepstake style contest, your donation goes to helping protect the rhinos and other endangered wildlife at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. For more information on the prize details and how to enter, head on over to the dedicated site on Omaze.

After I gladly bought myself 1,000 entries, I was lucky enough to sit down with Ami Vitale to talk about her passion for rhino conservation, how her relationship with Sudan started, how his passing affected her, and whether we can win the battle to conserve these endangered creatures.

Unfortunately, far too many animals are on the endangered list. With limited time and resources, what was it about Africa’s endangered species, specifically the rhinos, that drew you in?

I had the privilege of meeting Sudan nine years ago, and he changed the trajectory of my work.  I heard about a plan to airlift four of the world’s last northern white rhinos from the Dvůr Králové Zoo in the Czech Republic to Kenya. It was a desperate, last-ditch effort to save a species. At the time, there were only eight of these rhinos left, all living in captivity. He looked ancient, part of a species that has lived on this planet for millions of years, yet could not survive mankind. The moment I saw these magnificent creatures, I quickly understood how important it was to share this story with the world. We are witnessing extinction on our watch and poaching is not slowing down. It’s entirely possible, even likely, that if the killing continues, these rhinos—along with elephants and a host of lesser known plains animals—will be functionally extinct in our lifetime. The plight of wildlife and the conflict between poachers and increasingly militarized rangers has received much-needed attention. But very little has been said about the indigenous communities on the front lines of the poaching wars, and the incredible work being done to strengthen them. We often forget that the best protectors of these landscapes are the local communities. Their efforts are ultimately the best immunization against forces that threaten both their wildlife and way of life.

You have taken many incredible images in your career, but maybe none has resonated as much with the public as the emotional moment you captured Joseph Wachira comforting Sudan, the last male Northern White Rhino, as he passed away. Even though you had been working with Sudan and endangered rhinos for almost a decade, how did this moment change you?

To watch the last of something die is something I hope never to  experience again. Sudan’s death could mean the extinction of his species, but if there is meaning in his passing, it’s that all hope is not lost. This can be our wake-up call. In a world of more than 7 billion people, we must see ourselves as part of the landscape. Our fate is linked to the fate of animals. My hope is that Sudan’s legacy serves as a catalyst to awaken humanity. There is a universal truth and we are in this intricate web together.  There is so much that connects us all to one another,  whether we understand it or not and the loss of any species has a ripple effect on other animals and on all of humanity too. The future of nature is the future of us.

When you first met Sudan, you described him as being surrounded by smokestacks and humanity as he lived in the Dvůr Králové Zoo in the Czech Republic. As a photographer who has devoted most of her career to conservation efforts, how do you keep a positive outlook when you see the harm that mankind has brought to these ancient animals?

There are incredible stories where people, who often have no political power or resources are creating impact and change in their own communities. I am constantly reminded in the power of individuals to create the world we want to live in and I think sharing these stories and images of hope are what motivate action. What is happening without fanfare in some of these places I have the privilege of working in is nothing less than a miracle. It is the beginning of a transformation in the way  communities relate to the wild animals they have long feared, with potential implications for communities and wildlife across Africa.

This opportunity for two lucky winners to join you for five days at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya really seems like a dream trip. Above all, what are the feelings and experiences that you wish for the winners to leave with?

I expect people will leave with a sense of wonder and hope. Because Love IS going to be what saves us all. The first step in caring about our natural world is by falling in love. Once you are in love, you have the courage and desire to make miracles happen.

In your article for TIME, you describe the love that surrounded Sudan in his final moments. For all of the outpouring of love for Sudan, there is a fair amount of people who do not share the same love for conservation efforts. How do you see this seemingly never-ending battle looking like in 10 years? 50 years? 100 years? Is there any hope?

Planet Earth is the only home we have and we have poked some big holes in our shared little life raft. Personally, what saddens me the most is that our children may not get to experience and benefit from the variety of life we have today. There is a good chance that like the northern white rhinos, a whole host of species will eclipse into myth, like unicorns. We are about to condemn all future generations to eternal poverty.  So what must we do? What happens next is in all of our hands.

Everyone here has the capacity to make an impact by making your voice heard. The truth of the matter is very, very few people are actually engaged in the fate of our planet.  And a friend said this to me. Its so important. The messenger matters as much as the message. It’s important that EVERY one of us be that messenger. This project with Omaze is about collaborating and shining a light on those who are caring for the environment in all its forms – from glaciers to deserts, to elephants to the tiniest of ants that inhabit the earth.  Our future depends on all of them. It’s also about taking this message to a variety of different audiences… If more people are involved, then, absolutely, we’ll come up with solutions. Get involved. There is a role for each and every one of us.

Follow Ami Vitale on her website, Instagram, and Facebook

The post A Conversation with Ami Vitale About Rhino Conservation and How You Can Win a Trip to Kenya appeared first on Resource Travel.

Many who come to Stanley for the first time during these long summer days wonder how such a gem could only have a population of 62 residents, as the road sign leading into town claims. While warm and comfortable in the summer months, Stanley does an about-face in the darker winter days. Average daily high temperature in January? 26 degrees Fahrenheit. Average nightly low? -2 Fahrenheit.

So why would I leave the comfortable confines of my downtown Boise apartment in the dead of winter to make the short two and a half hour drive to one of the coldest places in the Pacific Northwest? Romance my friends, romance. Braving this frigid air in the name of romance wasn’t what I was expecting when I wrote about the 11 reasons why I moved to Idaho.

I will admit that I usually run the other way when I see the words ‘All Inclusive’ when booking my travel plans. On the road, I like to live moment to moment, willing to abandon ideas and plans as the adventure plays out, and usually on a shoestring budget. But when I saw the ad for the Stanley High Country Inn’s Winter Romantic Getaway, I was intrigued. My partner, Laura, had recently put in long days studying to get her massage therapy license, on top of her almost nightly job in a restaurant. So when she passed her exam, I thought a quick weekend getaway would be a nice way to celebrate, and those words, ‘All-Inclusive’ and ‘Stanley’ rang in my head. I quickly called and reserved a room, the ‘Ace of Diamonds’ suite, and just like that, our mid-winter romantic weekend to Stanley, Idaho was booked. But would braving some chilly nights be worth it?

Yes, yes, and yes. We had one of the most fun, adventure-filled and cozy weekends imaginable. Would I recommend it? Highly. Just be aware of where you are visiting (let’s talk about layers, people!) and enjoy a romantic winter weekend in Stanley, Idaho. Still need to be convinced? Here are 7 reasons why you should book a romantic, all-inclusive winter weekend at Stanley High Country Inn with some pretty photos to prove it.

There is no denying it. Whether it is 90 degrees or -15 degrees, the Sawtooth Mountains are some of the most photogenic in the west. And you won’t have to go far to see them, as there is no better view of these mighty mountains than from smack in the middle of town. But to get an even better view, and with some beautiful fences in the foreground, head up the hill to Stanley Pioneer Park.

Stanley isn’t a place to sleep in, however. The rising sun hits the Sawtooths, casting a beautiful early morning light on the snow covered peaks. And even though you won’t get light on the mountains at sunset from town, the winter sky often lights up in bright oranges, pinks and purples as the sun hits the horizon.

To get a view of the back of the Sawtooths with some late afternoon light, drive five miles west on Highway 21 to the hill just behind the turn off for Stanley Lake.

Idaho has the most usable hot springs in the United States, with 130 being deemed ‘soakable’ out of the 340 that dot the state’s landscape. And some of the best are in the Stanley region. If searching for primitive hot springs in freezing cold conditions along the Salmon River isn’t your thing, reserve the hot spring cabin behind the Mountain Village Resort for a hot soak with an unobstructed view of the Sawtooths.

Even though winters in Stanley are relatively empty, the hot springs are still popular with day trippers from Boise, so to find solitude, early morning soaks with a cup of coffee is a great way to guarantee that you will have the tub all to yourselves. And if you are really brave, there is no better place in Idaho to enjoy an adult beverage while stargazing. Just be aware, the temperature may be below zero degrees at night, which is fine when you are in the hot spring, but the wet walk back to the car may be a bit painful.

For years, Stanley has been my heaven on earth, so if you had told me that my favorite moments from this trip would have been spent indoors, I would have laughed it off. But not the case during our stay at the Stanley High Country Inn, thanks to the mouth watering meals and wonderful service from executive chef TJ Degnan and his partner and restaurant manager Maggie Staas. As part of the all-inclusive stay, guests are treated to welcome appetizers on Thursday and a full dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. Oh, but did I mention three days worth of brunch as well? The meals were some of the best I have ever had, and I surely did not expect to get that in the dead of winter in the ghost town of Stanley. Even though we were the only guests, the level of care and detail that Degnan put into his creative dishes was extraordinary. Honestly, as amazing as the adventure-filled weekend was, I would have been perfectly happy eating everything TJ and Maggie could throw at us while sitting around the warm and inviting dining room fireplace.

While Stanley is surrounded by incredible mountains, none of the peaks are ski-able. There is no ski resort here, so one way to get out and enjoy some of the winter sun is to rent some snowmobiles from Todd, the friendly and knowledgeable owner of Sawtooth Traxx and get lost on the trails that take you to some of the frozen over lakes in the valley. We opted for an afternoon excursion to Redfish Lake Lodge, normally bustling with lake loving boaters during the summer. During the winter however, the road to the lake is closed and only accessible via snowmobile, snowshoe, or cross country skiing. With not a cloud in the sky and the sun shining bright, there was a number of people on the trail who opted to warm up their cold muscles via a snow shoe hike. While the temperatures were below freezing, you wouldn’t have known it from the smiles that graced the faces of the Saturday afternoon adventure hounds.

Once we arrived to the lodge, we walked down the pier and enjoyed and afternoon snack as we overlooked the frozen lake. With not a soul around, we listened to the silence as the afternoon sun began to disappear behind the Sawtooths. We headed back to town, and the four-hour adventure had us wishing we had booked the sleds for the entire day.

By the time Saturday afternoon had rolled around, the frigid air hardly seemed to bother us anymore, and we were anxious to stay outside in this winter wonderland for as long as possible. Luckily for us, the team at Stanley High Country Inn had two fat bikes for us to take out for a blue hour ride. Blue hour (the hour after sunset, which literally casts a blue hue in the sky) is maybe my favorite time in Stanley. And it’s even better in winter, as the snow shines bright as dusk descends. We rode our bikes up a small hill on Wall Street until we reached Stanley Pioneer Park and the snowmobile track entrance. We rode along the fence until we had wide open views of the Sawtooths as we peddled on the well groomed snow. There is something beautifully eerie about being on this track during blue hour. We zoned out and enjoyed the calmness, which lasted minutes before two friendly snowmobile riders zoomed past, encouraging us to race them out to the lake. The realist in me declined, but Laura doesn’t like to lose. So she gave it her best shot, until being left in the dusty snow about 7 seconds after the race started.

As I mentioned, Laura just started working as a massage therapist, so when I heard there was a well known masseuse in Stanley, even through the winter, I thought it would be nice to put her on the massage table for a change. And of course, while I was at it, I couldn’t say no to wrapping up a busy, adventurous weekend without getting one myself. And what a way to end the weekend it was!

Pamela “Noeau” Day trained and lived in Hawaii, so her massages all have hints of the famous Lomilomi style of long, flowing strokes. We felt as if we were in a different universe as Day did her magic. We left in a state of euphoria, and we both agreed that Day gave us one of the best, if not THE best massage both of us had ever had. Amazing how this massage wizard is living a quiet mountain life in the frosty Sawtooth mountains. Check out the winter spa menu on the Meadow Creek Inn website and make sure to treat yourself before you finish your romantic getaway to Stanley.

There are many reasons to love Stanley, Idaho. But perhaps my favorite is the quiet solitude that isn’t hard to find, even in the summer months. But if you want to disconnect and spend a romantic weekend alone with your partner, you will be hard pressed to find a better time or place than winter in Stanley, Idaho. As far as I could tell, we were the only non-locals in town that weekend, and given that there aren’t many locals either, Stanley can feel like a ghost town at times, which is more than welcomed when you live an often crazy and chaotic ‘normal’ life.

Life in Stanley, Idaho is different. Life in Stanley, Idaho in the dead of winter is very different. It isn’t for everyone. But if you are looking for a quiet weekend with your partner full of amazing food, beautiful scenery, a little bit of adventure and a lot of smiles, then spending a romantic getaway at the Stanley High Country Inn is just what you both need.

Follow Michael Bonocore on Instagram, Facebook and his website.
Follow Stanley High Country Inn on their Instagram, Facebook and their website.

The post 7 Reasons to Embrace the Cold for a Romantic Getaway in Stanley, Idaho appeared first on Resource Travel.

If you are one of Chris Burkard’s 3.3 million followers on Instagram, then you undoubtedly have a steady feeling of FOMO hitting your feed daily. There is no other way to describe it. Burkard posts some of the most incredible outdoor photography out there today, and it seems like his life is one big adventure. Well, spoiler alert. It is. Check out the article Burkard wrote for Resource Travel about how adventure is his biggest inspiration.

But, not everything always lines up perfectly in Burkard’s globe trotting life. Sometimes, the 32-year old photographer from Pismo Beach, California has those trips that don’t exactly work out as planned. But for Burkard, the stakes are always higher, as much of his travel is for large adventure brands.

Such was the case when I ran into Burkard in Patagonia last April. He was shooting a campaign called #SpiritOfExploration for the Montblanc 1858 Collection, and I was in the wild and remote region co-leading a month worth of workshops with my friend Colby Brown. Just as our first team departed from El Chalten, Argentina, a massive storm system rolled through. Suddenly, the postcard views of Mt. Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre were no where to be found, instead replaced with a wall of white. A thick wall of white. And that wall had a lot of rain. Sideways rain. And wind. Oh man, that wind. We got a taste of the real Patagonia, one of the most brutal and extreme environments in the world. 

To give you some context as to what is behind that wall, here is a photo I took at sunset shortly before the storm system came through. 

Well, as that storm rolled through, so did Chris Burkard. Needless to say, this wasn’t the conditions that he nor the film crew was expecting or hoping for. But, impressively, they took the cards they were dealt and told an engaging and beautifully filmed story about how the spirit of exploration can live on, even when the weather is your worst enemy. I sat down with Chris Burkard in between his adventures to follow up with him about his time in Patagonia, how the story of the film changed over the course of the harsh nearly two-week period, and about how he finds inspiration to keep shooting, even when the things aren’t going his way. We were also lucky enough to get some behind-the-scenes photos of the adventure from Ryan Hill.

We have talked extensively about your film ‘Under an Arctic Sky’ where things didn’t quite go as planned, but somehow in the end, the final adventure was even more exciting then the original plan. In this short film for Montblanc, it seems that lucky break you got in Iceland never materialized in Patagonia. With so much riding on this project, how do you keep yourself inspired when another day goes by without that lucky break? And more importantly, when it was all over, did the thought of ‘what could have been’ haunt with you when you returned home?

Dealing with adversary, especially bad weather days, is something that I’ve become very accustomed to on projects over the years. Almost so much to the point where they seem like a necessary part of the process, as it makes those lucky breaks so much more rewarding when they happen. I find that when things aren’t going the way I envisioned, my inspiration turns from what’s actively happening to what could be. It gives you time to really think about how you’re going to capitalize when things turn around, how you may approach things differently, and making sure your fully prepared for when it happens. Focusing on those things keep me inspired and help me stay positive.

I would lying if I didn’t say I thought of what could of been, but that’s a natural part of any creative process. Looking back I’m really satisfied with what the project embodied because I feel it really showcased the raw elements of exploration. We didn’t try to sugarcoat the experience or make it something it wasn’t. It was an honest look at what happens when things don’t go to plan.

In the film, you spend time in a mountain home with a very photogenic local farmer. Who was this man? And is meeting him an experience that may be would not have come to be if the weather did go as planned?

He is an old time sheep farmer turned alpinist and a bit of a local legend in Patagonia as he was the first porter in the region that helped guide the likes of Yvon Chouinard and a lot of the original pioneers of climbing in Patagonia. Our local guide is a long time friend of his and had told us a few stories about him so when we had some extra downtime due to weather we knew we had to meet him. It was pretty crazy being able to hear about the early days of climbing in Patagonia and what those guys went through in the pursuit of progressing climbing. That encounter is a great example of something that wasn’t originally planned for but ended up being one of my favorite memories of the trip.

I am imagining the final film concept wasn’t what the original storyboard looked like, but to me, the final result lives up to the #SpiritOfExploration campaign even more so than the original concept. Was there ever any doubt in your mind that the film would have told an original and inspiring story?

The exciting part of embarking on any type of expedition like this are the elements that are unknown. You can plan as much as you want but when you are dealing with such fickle things like weather you never really know what is going to happen, or if anything will even go to plan. But that is what the spirit of exploration is really about. It’s about not knowing. It’s about coming face to face with and acknowledging that risk and deciding to go anyway.

I was less concerned about telling an inspiring or original story than I was about really authentically capturing what I feel is the spirit of exploration. For me that was what took precedent. Embracing those highs and lows and showcasing what that rollercoaster really looks like was what I was most focused on and what I think we were able to convey.

In the film you said “A trip like this humbles you. If everything goes perfect, you walk away completely unchanged.” When all was said and done, how did this far from perfect and challenging expedition to Patagonia change you?

More than anything this trip inspired me to want to get back to Patagonia. The raw force of the conditions there were nothing like I’ve experienced before so I’m dying to get back and see more of the region. It has such a rich history of exploration and my experience there really just reinforced how many stories there are to be told there.

See more from Chris Burkard on his website, Facebook, and Instagram.

See more from Ryan Hill on his website and Instagram.

The post Braving The Extreme and Merciless Weather of Patagonia With Chris Burkard appeared first on Resource Travel.

I don’t really know how to do relaxing vacations. Typically, I’m more drawn toward the rougher getaways that require at least a little presence of mind to not die or at least wreck oneself. In short, I like adventures. But the end of Summer 2018 had left me depleted. Between work, travel, and some personal drama that would seem absurd even in a very bad movie, I needed to get the hell away and recover. Which is how I found myself at The W Punta de Mita in Mexico.

I was drawn there by a simple promise: There will be drinking, and surfing, and lots of time just relaxing. It sounded like the perfect antidote. And it was.

Punta de Mita is, as the name suggests, a point (that’s what Punta means, gringos). If you look at a map of Mexico, it looks like a sharp little jetty that juts out to the west in the southern-most part of the state of Nayarit (technically called the Free and Sovereign State of Nayarit, which I think is awesome). The closest airport is Puerta Vallarta, just 30 miles to the south. The short drive to the hotel has you whizzing through both densely populated urban areas in Puerta Vallarta as well as jungle you’d need a very serious machete to get through.

The W Hotel is spread out over a unique property. It’s a compound sprawling out over some green, rolling hills that pour down to the beach. It’s full of art, too, from stunning murals of leopards to intricate mosaic footpaths. Even the walls of the rooms feature cheeky images of Emiliano Zapata and Frida Kahlo, but decked out in surf and skate gear.

Speaking of rooms, upon entering my new home I was greeted with a DIY margarita kit, complete with two little bottles of Don Julio tequila. Not bad. The bed was large and comfy, and the rain-style shower was the perfect temperature, but I was eager to get down to the beach. I quickly swapped pants for shorts and shoes for sandals, and before I knew it I was knee-deep in some 73-degree, blue-green waters.

Just up the beach toward the upper end of the hotel property is a fun little point-break. It, too, wasn’t overly crowded and the vibe in the water seemed friendly. These waves tended to run a bit longer and they looked extremely fun. Unfortunately, five days before I headed to Mexico I dislocated my shoulder while snowboarding, which meant surfing was out for me. It broke my heart, but I decided I’d just have to commit to this whole relaxation thing I kept hearing about.

Fortunately, the food on the property is good, too. The first night we hit the very impressive Mesa1, a lavish, private, single-table restaurant that does just one seating per night. There we enjoyed the chef’s tasting menu, which was extremely on-point. A creamy cauliflower soup stole the show for me, but ultimately everything was good, including the little mushroom forest of pastries for dessert.

The next day, I took a ceviche-making class at the property’s Chevycheria, an on-beach ceviche bar made from a converted (and very cherry) 1950s Chevrolet truck. Everything was extremely fresh and I ate roughly my own bodyweight in fish, shrimp, and scallop ceviche.

Eager to do some exploring, though, I ventured out to the nearby towns of Sayulita and San Pancho. Word has most definitely got out about Sayulita over the last ten years, and it was chock-full of tourists and expats, but it’s managed to retain some of its small town feel, and it’s certainly nothing like the nightmare hellscape of Cancun. I strolled around, hit a few shops, watched some local surfers absolutely rip the beach break there, and tried one of the local popsicles which features large pieces of tropical fruit. Delicious.

From there I checked out La Patrona Polo Club in San Pancho. Polo, it turns out, is huge in those parts. Who knew? Unfortunately, there was no match on, but the grounds and stables were beautiful. It was one of those places where the lighting just seemed to be perfect everywhere you looked. I snapped a candid shot of my colleague Leigh and it’s one of my favorite portraits I’ve ever taken.

I then headed to the nearby Tierra Tropical, a gorgeous beach club from the same owners of the polo club. It has an incredible yoga room overlooking the beach and a massive dining room serving traditional cuisine. It was there that I got to try the local delicacy that is guacamole with fried crickets in it. Verdict? They add a little crunch, but not a ton of flavor. Again, I guzzled wine and overate. There was something about the ambiance that made me feel like I was floating in the sea. Maybe this taking it easy thing isn’t so bad after all?

The next morning started off with a yoga class in the Away Spa at the hotel. It was a pretty basic, entry-level class, but with my shoulder all chewed up I found myself wincing and getting frustrated, so I got up and took a few photos instead. It was a beautiful white marble room with long hanging vines acting as curtains.

Lunch was one of the highlights of the trip. Salero is the newest restaurant at The W, and it’s essentially a seafood market. They tell you what’s fresh, and you tell them how you want it prepared. Mahi Mahi has always been my favorite, and that was the chef’s recommendation the day I was there. I was advised to ask for it Zarandeado style, a mouthwatering regional classic where the fish is marinated and grilled. It was absolutely phenomenal. 

After lunch I headed back to the Away spa for a deep-tissue massage. I actually used to be a certified massage therapist (CMT) once upon a time, so I’m an extremely tough critic when it comes to bodywork, and my clinician was absolutely fantastic. She knew how to use leverage to get really deep, and she made sure to spend extra time on the various screwed up parts of my back. Afterwards I soaked in the tubs (and pool, and cold plunges) at the spa. I felt like the hotel had been holding out on me. The pool area was a perfect, peaceful oasis. It was the most relaxed I’d felt all trip. Maybe all year.

My final dinner there was at the Spice Market, an on-property restaurant from multi James Beard Award winning chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and man, they saved the best for last. I did not expect an Asian restaurant, from a French chef, to steal the show in Mexico, but there you go. Every dish was bursting with flavor and was well-balanced. Even the cocktails were the best I’d had since arriving, and I’ll admit that I tried more than a few of them. This meal really stood out.

I also did a tequila and mezcal tasting that night at the main bar in the lobby. I used to write a booze column so I thought I was a seasoned vet on the subject, but then the bartender poured something I’d never even heard of: Raicilla. It’s an agave spirit, too, but if I had to pinpoint the differentiating factor it would have to be The Funk. Raicilla has The Funk in spades. It’s got an attitude, is what I’m saying. I definitely don’t prefer it to tequila or mezcal, and frankly, I’m not even sure I can say that I liked it, but enjoyed the experience enough that I persuaded my shuttle driver to take me by a liquor store on me way to the airport the next day so I could bring back a bottle. Speaking of the airport, there was a guy still wearing his rashguard. Absolutely classic.

Overall, I had a fantastic time. It wasn’t the fast-paced romp that I’m used to, but I came away from the trip not only without any new injuries (a small miracle in of itself), but feeling more rested than I had been in a very long time. While I’d recommend Punta de Mita to anyone, I think surfers will especially enjoy it. The easy access to consistent and uncrowded waves right next to good food and hot tubs is pretty hard to beat. Just go easy on the raicilla before you paddle out.

Brent Rose is a tech writer who lives in a van, traveling throughout the United States as he has written for Wired, Gizmodo, Men’s Journal, Outside Magazine, and Men’s Health, among countless other publications. He is also the host of Wired’s wildly popular web series, ‘Out of Office with Brent Rose.’

You can follow Brent Rose’s adventures on his Instagram and Twitter.

The post Learning How To Relax in Punta de Mita, Mexico appeared first on Resource Travel.

On Rustad’s website, he describes the incredible about of work that went into developing the nearly eight minutes of jaw dropping scenes from some of South America’s most pristine locations. 

One year of travel, nine countries, countless hours on buses, motorbikes, and cars. Hundreds of thousands of images taken. 30TB of data used, 5 months of editing. The time-lapse film features South America like it has never been before with images from Brazil, Venezuela, Guyana, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador.

And Rustad is right. We have never seen South America quite like this. We sat down with the filmmaker to talk briefly about the process of making a film of this magnitude. 

“The sheer amount of work that goes into these films, and this one in particular, is staggering. What was the most challenging aspect of creating this film?”

I think being in a completely new country where everything is different from home was the most difficult thing about this project. I didn’t know the language, any people, and most importantly I didn’t know how the nature behaved. As time went by I got more experience and things got easier, and I got more confidence that I could handle the conditions.

“Most of your scenes involve remote sections of nature. Is so much solitude challenging when creating your films? Do you ever feel the need to stay in a town for a couple of days to find some human interaction?”

I enjoy spending time with only nature and myself, so that was never really a problem. A book or a podcast can make me feel a little less lonely if needed.

“Can you tell us a little about your next project? How about your ultimate ‘dream’ film?”

I’m aiming for a trip to Pakistan this summer if everything goes as planed. A big dream for me would be to do a sequel in Africa, but that would require extensive planning and funding.

After watching Rustad’s vision of South America, it’s easy to get excited for his trip and film from Pakistan, as well as his other future adventures. We will undoubtedly be sharing his future work here on Resource Travel, but in the meantime, Follow Morten Rustad on his website, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.

The post Beaches, Mountains, and Deserts: See The Diverse Beauty of South America appeared first on Resource Travel.

As I sat down to begin drafting this piece from my cosy little cabin, “Waimarie,” the sun was peeking through the ominous storm clouds as it began to set over the ocean, casting this vibrant, golden light across the palm trees before me. My feet were up and my muscles aching in a way that reminded me that it was only the day before I hiked Mt Gower (and survived), and my cheeks and jaw sore from positively smiling so much.

I was so happy to finally be on Lord Howe Island, feeling alive and feeling really inspired.

Lord Howe Island represents the way the world is supposed to be.

It takes just a two-hour flight from mainland Australia (Sydney or Brisbane) to discover a volcanic island of picturesque crescent lagoons teeming with diverse life, palm-tree shaded streets and incredible mountains rising from the sea.

n Lord Howe Island, shoes are optional, the mode of transport is a bicycle, and the universal language is a wave combined with a smile found on the face of every person you cross paths with. Mobile reception here doesn’t exist and connecting to WIFI is the last thing you think about when you a pristine, untouched beach to yourself for hours.

This is Australia’s best kept secret. A world treasure and by far the one of the most stunning treasures of them all — A real Holiday destination.

Only 11 kilometres long and 2.8 kilometres at its widest, Lord Howe is PARADISE and for the most part you will feel like you have stepped back in time to a place where birdsongs fill the cleanest of air and time slows to still.

After years of dreaming to visit Lord Howe Island, there is really no way to prepare yourself – places like this aren’t supposed to exist anymore. And despite the fact that Lord Howe Island is a PART of my native Australia; I felt worlds from “home.”

Sir David Attenborough once said Lord Howe Island is  “so extraordinary it is almost unbelievable… Few islands, surely, can be so accessible, so remarkable, yet so unspoiled.”

And as always, Sir David Attenborough is right. 

Breathtaking natural beauty that constantly changes with every hour of the day.

The mood is complex and unpredictable, as are all good places at mercy to the elements of Mother Nature, but let me tell you this place is a breath of fresh air in a busy, modern world.  It could be best described as the sunshine on ANY overcast and bleak day to the 400 souls whom reside here and me; who loves wild and remote places of this beautiful planet.

With a romantic old-world appeal, this untouched utopia remains relativity in this natural state, unlike many remote islands over the last 200 years which resulted in destruction of the native fauna. With diverse and abundant sea marine and bird life, the charm and beauty of Lord Howe is due to the protected distance from established human settlement and in a fast-paced world of technology and high-rises, Lord Howe remains untouched. There has been a lot to preserve and treasure this jewel in the Tasman Ocean to ensure there is a balanced living in harmony with the natural environment.

Lord Howe Island is characterized by white-sandy beaches, subtropical forests and water so clear and blue it’s hard to believe it’s real. Whether it be swimming, snorkeling, diving, golf, cycling, hiking, mountains, bushwalking, photography, fishing or a sunset Australian BBQ- Lord Howe offers something for everyone.

The locals will embrace you with open arms, you won’t see anyone walking around glued to their phones and I can promise you will find real conversation and a real connection that will make you never want to leave.

THINGS NOT TO MISS:

CHALLENGE YOURSELF ON THE MOUNT GOWER HIKE.

From the air, sea or land the mountains of Lorde Howe dominate the landscape, as Mt Gower and Lidgbird stand guard protecting all below.

Mount Gower is the islands greatest challenge – a 875 metre mountain only to be tackled under supervision by a local guide and not for the faint hearted or those scared of heights. However if you are fit and up for a challenge and the adventure then I can promise you this experience is not something you want to miss.

Following in the footsteps of his Father and Grandfather, you will want to be guided to the Summit of Mount Gower by Jack Shick, the most passionate and experienced guide on the Island (having summited over 2000 times now).

The 14 kilometer round trip day hike is one of Australia’s best and takes approximately 8.5 hours to enjoy and complete. Beginning with a “rock-hop” along the edge of the mountain which turns through the forest of Lidgbird, the “Lower Road”  has been rung with rope along the edge of the cliff for a helmet-adorned traverse – Just try not to think about the 100m drop straight into the ocean, but get lost staring back at magnificently beautiful island.

The steep and tricky ascent begins past the morning tea break resting spot where rope is used to haul climbers into the heavens. And the summit provides one of the best and most rewarding views in the world.

Come rain or shine, standing atop Gower’s iconic peak, amongst its misty forest inhabiting the islands famous woodhen’s, as well as trees, ferns, mosses and orchids seen nowhere else on the planet, you will realize that this is a truly special and unforgettable hike.

CATCH THE SUNRISE FROM MALABAR:

I hope you have gathered by now that Lord Howe is the kind of place that “strangers” very easily become friends and you can find yourself having a BBQ watching the sunset one evening and hiking with your new friends for sunrise the next morning.

There are two ways to complete the Malabar hike on Lord Howe and I can recommend beginning the climb from Old Settlement Beach. First you will reach Kims Lookout and stop to admire the sweeping views before traversing the ridge between Kims and Malabar (two peaks).

Reaching Malabar in about an hour,  you are greeted with a spectacular view of the island and 360 degrees of pure paradise.

From here you can admire the mountains of oceanic basalt rising from the floor of the ocean to tower 875 meters above one of the most stunning shorelines’ in the world. With the Admiralty Islands to your immediate left and Balls Pyramid towering in the distant blue, it is a sight to behold.

As you descend the south ridge of Malabar be sure to stop in a Neds beach and have a swim, snorkel or feed the fish with healthy fish food that can be purchased by a $2 coin donation alongside the “honesty box” snorkel hire at the top end of the beach.

Did I mention this place is PARADISE?  All of this before a morning coffee? As always, it is worth waking up for!!

If you’re not up for the challenge of the Mount Gower hike, then this hike and view is for you. And if you have completed the Mount Gower hike this vista is yet another picturesque view of the island, that comes with fresh perspectives of your hiking achievements.

GO EXPLORING THE DEEP BLUE.

The moods of the sea dominate life on Lord Howe, nowhere else is the sea so full of life and the coral reef which encloses Lord Howe is a beautiful lagoon; home to fascinating marine animals. Globally unique, containing thousands of tropical, subtropical and temperate species (including some endemic that are found nowhere else) the marine environment is pristine.

Pro dive LHI will take you out for unforgettable day/s exploring the blue. I have been fortunate enough to have dived various sites around the world, and Australia, over the last 12 years, but having only recently recovered from quite a bad chest infection I was nervous to get back in the water. The team at Pro Dive literally welcomed me with kind open arms and had me in the water for some of the most exquisite diving I have been privileged to.

Explore the deep blue alongside dolphins, turtles, Galapagos whalers and Ballina Angelfish.

If you’re not an experienced diver that is okay, Pro dive and their amazing team run Open Water Divers course and I encourage you to open yourself up to the underwater world. What a place to learn how to dive – I can’t promise you won’t be hooked!

If diving is not something that is possible for you then don’t fear there are Glass Bottom Boat tours with Lord Howe Environmental Tours or you can go snorkeling Old Settlement beach, where you literally walk off the beach and into the bay and of a high tide can be co-existing with the beautiful, local sea turtles (from September – April)

I don’t know how to conclude a story about  a destination that completely captured my heart, and maybe it’s just that.  

Have you ever found yourself in a place and felt so completely at home and at ease that would could live there?

Perhaps that is why I changed my flight last minute and stayed a few extra days to soak it all in.

The Lord Howe Island life could be the life for me.

A special thank you Sharon and Waimarie appartments for hosting me for the first few nights of my stay. A true little cabin oasis that I really cannot wait to stay at again one day. The type of place I could see myself re-visiting for the rest of my life with attention to detail that is next to none.

And Jack and Cindy Shick, from Sea to Summit Expeditions for inviting me into your home and spare room/ family space and sharing moments of kindness with me that I will cherish forever.

Lisa and Az from Pro Dive, thank you for everything all the fun, enthusiasm, encouragement and knowledge imparted – I simply cannot wait to return (fingers crossed for the shoot-out) and can’t wait to explore Balls Pyramid when I do.

Kyla, for stopping me in the street, a stranger who is now a dear friend. Thank you for the adevntures beautiful soul.

Lord Howe Island, I love you. X

Melissa Findley is an Queensland, Australia based travel photographer. Working with brands such as The Intrepid Foundation, Canon Australia and a number of different tourism boards across the globe, Melissa has spent the past few years relentlessly chasing her dreams, wherever they take her. Follow here adventures on Instagram, Facebook and her website. 

A version of this article appeared on her blog. 

The post 37 Photos That Will Inspire You to Visit Australia’s Lord Howe Island appeared first on Resource Travel.

For the first episode, host Kishore Sawh dons his finest sport coat as he spearheads a panel discussion about ‘landscape photography’ with a who’s who of outdoor adventure photography.

Erin Babnik, Jacob Riglin, Chris Burkard, Keith Ladzinski and Pete McBride are no strangers to the outdoors, extreme environments and conservation efforts. Collectively, the formidable five-some has almost 6 MILLION followers on Instagram, with Burkard, Ladzinski and McBride being regular contributors for the holy grail of photography journalism, National Geographic.

So when you have the chance to watch these five brilliant minds sit down together and just chat about their passion for their art, you mine every ounce of knowledge out of the experience as you can.

I watched the discussion twice over, and I learned just as much the second time around as the first. I have collected a list of my favorite quotes from the show, but to really get the lesson behind the words, I advise shutting off all distractions and watching the discussion yourself.

“A photograph now is more of a communication tool than anything.” -Chris Burkard

Chris was talking about the advance of photography as an art form over the years. He related his recent experience of studying Ansel Adam’s archives, and how the archivist explained that, in Ansel’s day, photography was more a tool for science than an art. Keith talked about how most of the photographs being taken today are almost strictly for the personal memories, bringing full circle how far the ‘art’ of photography has come since Ansel Adam’s day.

“There is an element of loving a place to death…and maybe part of the story I am trying to tell is that we have to protect this place. If your canvas is going to be the outdoors, isn’t there a question for us as storytellers to protect it?” – Pete McBride

The group discussion turned to how to keep people engaged in such a saturated social media society. Pete recounts how he revisits places that he used to enjoy by himself years ago, whereas now those same places have dozens of people constantly crammed into them, most trying to get the same photograph. Whereas Pete’s career has been focused on conservation, he brings up an important point. Maybe we all need to do a little more to help prevent us as a society from ‘loving a place to death.’

‘Be educated as to what the local issues are. Don’t travel blindly. Open yourself up to more awareness of what you are doing and what you are shooting. This is our responsibility as photographers.’ – Chris Burkard

Chris touches on an important point here. Why are you traveling in the first place? Is it to experience the culture, try the food, or get that one photo for Instagram? Whatever the underlying reason is, open your eyes and ears and get to know the community, the land, and the people that you are visiting. You are in their home. Show respect by getting to know the land and its inhabitants that have been there for centuries before you arrived and will be there for centuries after you leave.

“Photography is my life. Most of the time I am taking pictures, it’s for me. I think most people shoot for the joy of shooting. Whenever you are doing the thing you love, you get tunnel vision. And that’s such a cleansing of the mind.” – Keith Ladzinski

It is so great to hear Keith talk about the fact that a lot of the photos he takes still get his passion and creative juices flowing. With the impressive resume that he has, you would think almost all of his photography work is ‘for others’ and not for himself. This is a powerful line that reinforces that no matter how much work you get, how much stress you are under, it is possible to still enjoy what you do.

“An agency once gave me great advice.  They said: ‘Your website is important, but if we want to hire you, we are going to look at your blog.‘  And they were right. They want to know who YOU are. They want to know who we are as people, because they want to spend time with you.” – Chris Burkard

Great advice. A website full of portfolio worthy images may look great, but brands don’t want to work with someone who doesn’t fit into their culture and share the same values as them. Don’t be afraid to be yourself on social media and on your blog. There is only one you. It’s better that business and your followers engage with you because they can relate to the real you. They feel like you are just like them and not some faceless avatar devoid of a personality. They will be much more loyal in the long run.

“I didn’t go to Brooks or a photo school to learn , I just figured it out. I mean, where do you go to learn the business in arts? It’s just going to take time.” – Keith Ladzinski

Preach on brother Keith. There is no playbook for how to succeed in making your passion a business these days, even for a National Geographic photographer such as Keith. Trial and error, hearing no a lot, and lots of sucking is how you learn (more on that later)

“You are only as good as your last story or your last image. You can never rest on your laurels.” – Pete McBride

In this fast moving age of social media and photography, you can easily be discovered and explode in popularity overnight. But, you can just as easily be forgotten overnight as well.

“Don’t cut corners when it comes to preparation. Less planning on the actual research of a trip and more planning to make sure you are prepared” – Jacob Riglin

Jacob nails it with this quote. So many of us are focused on the what to do when the time comes that we quickly find out that we aren’t PREPARED for that time when it comes.

“You just do what it is that you do. You do it as well as you can. And just work REALLY freaking hard at it, and things tend to work out.” – Erin Babnik

While I am not in complete agreement with the last part of this sentence, the rest is spot on. Quit comparing yourself to everyone else. Just do what YOU do. Kick ass at it, and work your tail off doing it. Even with all of those traits, after years of it, things still might not work out the way you envisioned, but at least you gave it everything you got and became a better photographer and entrepreneur in the process.

“I don’t even know where my next paycheck is coming from.” – Chris Burkard

I have known Chris Burkard for years and have heard him say this countless times, and each time it just drives the point home more and more. Obviously Chris is well known and has a roster chalk full of big name clients. Is he struggling to put food on the table every month? Most likely not. But the point is, choosing to live the life of an independent creative requires a life-long commitment. If you wanted to know that your bank account will have x more dollars every month, you can get a desk job with a steady paycheck and day-dream about traveling. But if you actually want to DO the traveling, follow your passions and own your own business and be your own boss, you can’t take your foot off of the gas. Ever. Because you never know where that paycheck is coming from. And if you do take your foot off of the gas, that next paycheck might not come at all.

“You invest in so many little things that accumulate into bigger things” – Chris Burkard

This is a great follow up to another comment Chris made earlier in the show. “Everyone wants to know when my ‘big break’ came. There was no magical big break.’ Chris is talking about how success can only come from investing your time and energy (and even money) in lots of small projects. While none of those might ‘put you on the map’ instantly, the cumulation of all of those lead to bigger projects, bigger goals, and more importantly, bigger ‘breaks’.

“It’s not for everybody. You have to put the time in. You have to hear the word ‘no’ alot. You have to suck. You have to do all these things before things work for you. There is no playbook.” – Keith Ladzinski

This great quote ties back into both Keith’s original point about there not being a playbook and Chris’ quote about there is no ‘big break.’ You just have to grind. You have to get rejected. You have to suck. All of those failures will not only help make you hungrier for success but also give you valuable lessons about both the industry you are trying to break into and about life.

“A lot of information that people are looking for, you have to remind them that it’s really easy to find on Google.” – Chris Burkard

No description needed. Do the work yourself and stop looking for everyone else to tell you how to do it.

“You gotta suck. Then you emulate. Then you find your voice. But you have to enjoy the failures.” -Keith Ladzinski

As Keith said before, this isn’t for everyone. If you are the type of creative who doesn’t accept failure and learn from it, you will never find your voice.

“If you want to create art and illustrate, go nuts. But own it. Don’t pretend like you were the only one to see it like that.” – Pete McBride

Pete is discussing editing images. Coming from a National Geographic background, Pete explains that most photo editing wasn’t allowed. Photographers would have to turn over their RAW files to Nat Geo as a way to have their work checked or edited by the magazine. Pete and the other panelists describe the new wave of digital art, where photographers might replace skies, remove objects and more. None of them had a problem with creatives sharing their passion for digital art. But own it. I think this relates to photos and sharing your life in general. For every picture perfect scene you share on Instagram, there was five moments where real life got in the way. You experienced trials and failures. Own it. Share it. Show your followers that not everything is a perfectly manicured Instagram feed. If it isn’t ‘real,’ don’t claim that it is. You will only contribute to an environment where people are going to extremes to get the likes, no matter the real-life expense.

“Don’t ask for food in a Russian jail cell” – Chris Burkard

Wise words from a wise man.

“No image is worth risking your life’”– Pete McBride

Seriously, please. Do we really need to keep saying this? Life is beautiful. Stop doing stupid things.

“A great photographer shares what they fear losing most” – Chris Burkard

Maybe this relates to the above comment. Maybe a great photographer fears losing their life? Their connection with nature? Their public lands? Their adventures? Sharing their lives and their passions, knowing that they may not always have that chance, has brought these five photographers to where they are now.

What did I take out of that comment? Stop creating for everyone else. Create for yourself. Art should fuel your soul, expand your creativity, and become a means for expressing yourself. If you aren’t doing it for those reasons, then why are you even bothering?

All photos by Michael Bonocore  while filming the SmugMug film on Chris Burkard.

The post 18 Thought Provoking Quotes From Five of the World’s Best Photographers appeared first on Resource Travel.

10) Jettegrytene

Rustad describes Jettegrytene as a true hidden gem. A big river used to have a home here, but when a hydro power plant was built, it partially dried out the river, revealing incredible shapes and textures from the rocky land that lived below the river.

Find hotels, restaurants and activities around Jettegrytene.  

9) Nærøyfjorden

Maybe the most scenic fjords in Norway, Rustad says that this UNESCO site is one of your best options if you are looking to see that ‘classic’ Norwegian fjord view. With mountains rising over 1,000 meters above the scenic river, Rustad says that the best views are obtained via hiking to one of the towering peaks. Although for those not up for some cold weather exercise, he also recommends the local ferry boat for a unique view.

Find hotels, restaurants and activities around Nærøyfjorden.

8) Lofoten

We have shown you Lofoten before, as it is easily one of the most photogenic spots in the world. But Rustad explains that it is so far down on his list due to the increase of tourism. Even with those extra visitors, Lofoten is still a place where one can find solitude, especially if willing to brave its rough climate. Northern Lights and midnight sun can be found here, so don’t let the influx of posts in your Instagram feed dissuade you from visiting one of the most scenic places in Norway.

Find hotels, restaurants and activities around Lofoten.

7) Helgeland

This long stretch of coastline in the north features mountains, glaciers and islands. While Norway has the second most coastline in the world, Rustad says this is some of the prettiest Norway has to offer.

Find hotels, restaurants and activities around Helgeland.

6) Hardanger

Rustad says May is the prime time to visit the Hardanger fjord, as the blossoms are in full bloom. Even if you miss the blossom season though, there is still plenty around the area, including the legendary Trolltunga (Troll tongue.)

Find hotels, restaurants and activities around Hardanger.

5) Valdres

Rustad says he has been lucky enough to spend two summers in Valdres, but it is another one of his hidden gems that is photogenic year round. It is also the gateway to Jotunheimen, home to some of Norway’s biggest mountains. Rustad describes Valdres as a place most people just drive through, as it lies between Oslo and Bergen, but as his time-lapse clips show us, Valdres is worth an extended stop.

Find hotels, restaurants and activities around Valdres.

4) Lovatnet Lake

Rustad says this glacial lake is just how you would imagine Norway, and based on his video, it looks like it. For photographers, the calm water leads to perfect reflections of the surrounding mountains, leading to no shortage of postcard worthy images. So set up your hammock lakeside, you may be here a while.

Find hotels, restaurants and activities around Lovatnet Lake.

Now, the next three locations are so unique, Rustad has deemed a three way tie for first place.

Tie 1) Femundsmarka National Park

The third biggest lake in Norway lies in this national park that straddles the Norwegian border with Sweden. Lakes, forests and mountains can be found everywhere, but one of Rustad’s favorite locations is called ‘The Oasis,’ a small, calm pond surrounded by trees. “Definitely, one of the coolest places I have ever photographed!” explains the photographer in his video. Although we are pretty sure the abundant reindeer might have something to do with that. Rustad says that hiking and camping are necessary in order to get the most out of your visit to Femundsmarka National Park, but the reward is one of the most peaceful places you will find in Norway.

Find hotels, restaurants and activities around Femundsmarka National Park.

T1) Varangerhalvøya National Park

The remote northern peninsula is probably the furthest away you can get from civilization in Norway. The National Park lies up against the Arctic Ocean and is rugged, wild, harsh and cold. But as Rustad says, you can expect to see scenery like no where else in Norway.

Find hotels, restaurants and activities around Varangerhalvøya National Park.

T1) Senja

Although tourism in Senja has been increasing, Rustad says it is still no where near Lofoten’s influx, but in his opinion, Senja is just as, if not more, beautiful than Lofoten. 1,000 meter mountains, coastline, northern lights and orca whales make up just a fraction of what’s to see in Senja.

Find hotels, restaurants and activities around Varangerhalvøya National Park.

Follow Morten Rustad on his website, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.

The post 10 Must-See Places in Norway appeared first on Resource Travel.

They go by many different names: thermal pools, mineral springs, spas, baths, hot springs — or my personal favorite — Mother Nature’s jacuzzi. These steamy soaks are typically a product of geothermal heat or volcanic zones, which means they’re found in some of the most geologically diverse and beautiful terrains in the world. Many of us are familiar with well-known hot spring locations like Iceland’s Blue Lagoon or Pamukkale in Turkey, but those closer to home often fly under the radar. What you likely didn’t know is that the U.S. boasts 1,661 known hot springs, most of which are located in the western part of the country.

Hot Creek Geological Site, Mammoth Lakes, United States. Photo by Cody Saunders

Many of these springs are too hot to soak in, but even after you subtract those from the list, there’s still a wealth of steamy pools that are within road trip distance from most major cities across the Pacific Northwest, Colorado Rockies and the Southwest. Some are tucked away in the high desert while others are nestled in the dense forest, only accessible by hiking in. So, that’s where this guide to natural hot springs that are off-the-beaten-path comes in. Covering 71 springs in total, this outlines hot springs that have been left mostly au naturel — because there’s really no better way to “soak up” the magic of nature than to soak in it.

To help make your hot spring quest easier, this guide covers all the important information you need to know like location  number of pools, type of access and whether or not each spring is clothing optional. Yes, at some, you can even leave your suit at home! Always remember to leave the springs and their surrounding areas in the state that you found them, or if possible in even better condition than when you found them by picking up trash. Pack out what you pack and leave no trace to help preserve these natural gems for generations to come.

The following maps and locations were provided by CarRentals.com

Arizona

Arizona is known for some of the most spectacular sites in the U.S. — think Grand Canyon National Park, the Kofa Wildlife Refuge, Antelope Canyon and Havasupai Falls, but did you know that it’s also home to a handful of off-the-grid thermal springs? Most of these aren’t an easy task to reach, but they’re well worth the hike. You can enjoy hot springs in Arizona that sit perched alongside a river, up above the Roosevelt Damn or tucked away inside colorful canyon walls.

California

The golden state is home to some of the most diverse terrain in the U.S. that will meet the needs of any outdoor enthusiast. From national parks and beach-side camping, to sand dunes and surf to snow accessibility, it might actually be true when Californians say they have it all. But, did you know it also boasts over 300 hot springs? Since hot springs in California span the length and width of the state, these natural gems are a short road trip away from most major cities.

Colorado

Colorado is internationally renowned for its breathtaking mountain scenery and powdery slopes. Village towns like Vail, Breckenridge, Aspen, and Telluride are just a few ski resorts that have put this state on every winter lover’s radar. And just like we hoped, where there are snow-covered slopes, there are hot springs. Colorado is dotted with incredible thermal waters from natural rock pools to resorts surrounded by evergreens. Take a break from a long day of playing in the mountains to dip into some of nature’s best.

Idaho

For people who’ve never been to Idaho, potatoes might come to mind when they think of this state. This, among other misconceptions, is what helps make Idaho a hidden gem. While farming is prevalent, its geographic diversity and low population density, mean that Idaho is, in many ways, defined by its landscapes. The snow-capped Sawtooth Mountains, millions of acres of protected forest, whitewater rivers and volcanic plains are just a few highlights. Unique geological location also means there is an abundance of Idaho hot springs to enjoy — 232 to be exact, and unlike many other states, almost all of them are safe to take a dip in. There’s really no better way to “soak up” this state’s magic than to soak in it.

Just another picture perfect Idaho hot spring. Photo by Michael Bonocore

Nevada

Nevada is often defined by its vast expanses of desert, vivid nightlife, 24-hour casinos, and entertainment industry. On the flip side, it makes for some of the best road trips to explore its awe-inspiring landscape and eye-opening destinations, in particular, natural springs, which are sprinkled all over the rich geothermal areas of the state. While some Nevada hot springs are extreme enough to foster a thriving geothermal energy industry, others have been tapped into to create remote and relaxing springs that will leave you craving for more.

Oregon

Often considered one of America’s best outdoor playgrounds, Oregon is home to glacier-clad volcanoes, vibrant high deserts and icy rivers that keep fisherman, backpackers and whitewater kayakers coming back for more. However, you don’t have to be an outdoor junky to appreciate this state’s natural beauty.

For those simply looking for a breath of fresh air with a stunning backdrop, Oregon delivers. A mix of climates means that you can bask in a steaming pool that sits perched above an icy river, under a canopy of pine trees or enjoy the scenic backdrop of an Oregon hot spring in the open plains.

Utah

Utah has no shortage of amazing outdoor activities and is commonly known for its multi-day adventures along remote byways, like the “Mighty Five” national parks. But there’s more to this state than sweeping vistas, arches, alcoves and epic canyons. Chances are, if you’re visiting one of these incredible sites, you’re likely near one of the many hot springs in Utah. Just remember, that while nudity is widely accepted in many thermal pools across the U.S., it’s actually illegal here. Don’t dip without your suit!

Washington

There may be fewer hot springs in Washington than most states in the Western U.S. — 30 in total — but its beautiful secluded locations and pine tree forests make up for the quantity. The Pacific Northwest is not only known for its vibrant green outdoors but also its heavy snowfall. With a white blanket covering the state of Washington during the fall and winter, there’s really no better way to defrost than by taking a hot springs road trip — just make sure you come prepared with good tires and chains.

Hot springs have been called the “fountain of youth” for their claimed anti-aging effects that mineral water can have on skin. More commonly, people visit these natural gems to experience nature in its most primitive form and soak up the incredible landscapes around them. However, that doesn’t mean they’re 100 percent safe or sanitary. Even popular springs that have been known for their consistent temperatures, can change without warning. Don’t forget that thermal springs are heated from the energy that comes within earth’s core, so you should test the water and read any warnings before jumping straight in. For many visitors, a hot springs road trip can be a way to relax sore muscles, set off on new adventures or clear away the winter blues. Use our guide to help you plan your road trip and rent a car to see some of the best and off the beaten path soaks on the western side of the U.S.

Mammoth Lakes, California. Photo By Robson Hatsukami Morgan

This version of this guide originally appeared on the CarRentals.com blog

The post 71 Natural Hot Springs To Warm Up In This Winter appeared first on Resource Travel.

While the National Forests are still protected, much like National Monuments, that protection level isn’t as impenetrable as National Park designation, as was the case when the Department of Interior slashed the protected lands in Bears Ears National Monument. 

So how does this new campaign aim to help protect the millions of acres of National Forest? According their website, the team hopes to inspire people to get out and use their National Forests and raise their voices as to how those forests are used in the future.

 

We aim to engage new, diverse voices in national forest planning and management through visually stunning content and multimedia tools for engagement that tell the story of why our forests matter in ways that people resonate with, from rivers and trails to wildfires and wilderness. 

We push industry standards to utilize technology, creativity, and the power of storytelling to break down barriers about how public lands are managed, make the connection about what our forests mean to everyone, and how they can have a say in the future of those lands they love.

Of course, with the launch of this endeavor, the team decided to show the world how beautiful the National Forests are, so they spent years returning to the rugged and remote Bridger-Teton National Forest in Wyoming. As evident in the film and photos, this National Forest is brimming with beauty, and for us solitude seekers, without the crowds of the two National Parks it lies between, Yellowstone and Grand Teton.

As always, the Pattiz brothers take us on an adventure to the most stunning pieces of wilderness in the United States. We are beyond excited to help them share this beauty as they continue to release films for ‘Your Forests. Your Future.’ and ‘More Than Just Parks.’ 

Stay tuned to Resource Travel as we share their next film in the series from Dixie National Forest in Utah.

The post See The Untamed Beauty of Wyoming’s Bridger-Teton National Forest appeared first on Resource Travel.