Carl Turnley Travel

Carl Turnley discusses his love of and experience with travel.

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Category: America

Juliana Buhring’s Cycling Saga

Juliana Buhring is a woman of the world. Her mother is German and her father is Welsh; and Juliana herself was born in Greece, raised in countries all over Africa, Europe, and Asia, and now lives in Italy. As the author of two books and an endurance cyclist, one would expect that she has been leading the strenuous life since she could walk, but that is not at all the case.

The subject of her latest book The Road I Ride, is the record-breaking journey she took four years ago, when she became the fastest woman to circumnavigate the globe on a bicycle. But her journey wasn’t born out of competitive spirit— it was a way to deal with pain and loss.

Two years before her two-wheeled travels, her boyfriend was killed by a crocodile in a kayaking accident. Grief can be overwhelming, and while some people seem to come to a standstill when dealing with emotional pain, Juliana had to literally get moving in order to get away from it all. So, she took up cycling. In an interview with the Telegraph she reveals that she wasn’t much of a cycler to begin with, but found that “The physical act of moving anywhere away from where I was, already felt better.” What started as a way to deal with her loss turned into a new passion, and before long the nascent endurance cyclist was determined to set the aforementioned record.

Most people thought her crazy for making the attempt, but she finished nonetheless. In the interview she speaks about her travels, noting the goodness that courses through so many people. When she was hungry, people would offer her food. When she was tired, someone would offer a bed. And even in the face of danger, there was someone willing to go out of their way and assure her safety.

Her favorite places to cycle were in Turkey (“there are some really beautiful views when you begin climbing up some of the hills”) and the Pacific Northwest (all of the mountainous US National Parks are wonderful for cycling).

It’s an inspiring story, so be sure to read her book!

Excellent Waterfalls

One of the benefits of hiking comes in the form of a mental health boost. Taking a long walk, in and of itself, can actually replicate some of the benefits of meditation. Put that long walk in a natural setting, and your brain is in for something wonderful. But a recent piece from Huffington Post ups the ante even further, citing a study that shows how waterfalls can give you a cognitive boost. Waterfalls release negative ions that increase blood flow to the brain, so making the time to relax by one of these natural wonders will benefit your overall health as well as your Instagram game.

The vast majority of the waterfalls are located in the vast expanses of the West. In California, you can take in the majesty of Yosemite Falls, some of the tallest in the world. Divided into three sections— the upper falls, the cascades, and the lower falls— Yosemite Falls can be viewed comfortably from Yosemite Valley. But adventurers can be rewarded with views from up close by completing a daunting eight hour hike.

The Golden State is also home to Vernal Fall, also in Yosemite; and Alamere Falls.

The latter is especially attractive. After a thirteen mile hike that for most will become a fun weekend excursion, explorers will see the full majesty of Alamere. It’s a tidefall, which means it empties right into the ocean.

The Pacific Northwest is also home to a number of breathtaking falls. Multnomah Falls in Oregon is considered to be one of the most beautiful vertical water formation in the country, and can easily be seen from the road. If hiking is more your thing, a 1.2 mile hike will take you to the top. Be warned— though the trail only clocks in at a mile, there are plenty of obstacles in the way.

While most of the falls are way out west, the article does show some love for falls east of the Mississippi. Of note are the underground Ruby Falls (Chattanooga, Tennessee), and Arethusa Falls (Hart’s Location, New Hampshire).

5 Cities to Travel to this Autumn

Boston

What more can I say? The Boston Commons will burst into color during these autumn months. If you have a sweet tooth, grab a few friends and grab a cannoli at Mike’s Pastries before lounging on the sloping greens. Or depending on the time, you can go ice skating in Frog Pond! Also, be sure cross the river to check out the scenery in Cambridge, then grab a book from the Harvard Bookstore.

The Twin Cities

That’s Minneapolis and St. Paul for those who don’t know. Up there, winters are super harsh, so locals take advantage of Autumn like nowhere else. If you ever make it up to the North Star State, be sure to check out the September bike tour. They also host a marathon that is considered one of the most scenic athletic events.

Bruges

If you’ve ever seen In Bruges with Colin Farrell and Ralph Fiennes, there is no doubt that the thought “there is no way a city can be so scenic and gorgeous.” But the travelers of the world understand that Bruges doesn’t disappoint. History is around every corner, and is waiting to be explored during your visit. Trips to Discover shares that it’s the colors that really bring the city to life in the fall. Beautiful foliage is reflected in the city’s canal’s, making your Autumnal excursion one to remember.

Bridge of Orchy

Situated in the Scottish highlands, this town is the definition of fall. Cozy, quaint; bursting with lively fall colors and inspiring a general sense of warmth and intimate vibes. It’s magical— down for a hike in the mountains? Fancy a whiskey tasting at an old distillery? Or maybe you want to explore medieval castles? Bridge of Orchy has it all, and then some.

Paris

Of all cities in the world, no city attracts more tourists than Paris. Added bonus? Flights are cheaper during the peak travel period of mid-summer. Once there, cozy up in a cafe on the Champs-Élysées or take a contemplative stroll through the gothic Père Lachaise cemetery.