In Waiting for Godot, Estragon and Vladimir’s squabbles capture life’s absurdity and, as Eric Lucas reflects in this essay, the vital role of human connection. Lucas draws on Beckett’s tumultuous life and his own encounters with the play to reveal its message: amid a chaotic, uncertain world, our shared bonds—however imperfect—affirm our existence and sustain us.

In this essay, Elyn Aviva shares an extraordinary personal experience after returning to live in Girona, Spain. While enjoying coffee with her husband, Gary, she unexpectedly began channeling the 3rd-century philosopher Plotinus. Aviva explores deep spiritual questions through continued meditative encounters and reflects on the unexpected journey of traveling to unseen realms.

On an ordinary thrift store visit for sweats, Irene Sardanis' life took a drastic turn. A fall resulted in a broken hip and a challenging recovery journey. The journey to recovery was tough, but her husband's unwavering support made all the difference. Humbled and more grateful, she embraces her new self, learning to navigate life with patience and resilience. Discover her inspiring story of transformation.

Join Carolyn Handler Miller on an adventure through Cambodia's vibrant culture, where ancient traditions meet modern-day wonder. Amid the grandeur of Angkor Wat, an unexpected invitation leads to a mesmerizing Apsara dancing performance. But it's not just about the graceful movements—it's about the magic of a humble red yarn and the blessings it carries.

Embark on an unexpected journey with Carolyn Handler Miller through Vietnam and Cambodia, where an accidental injury confines her to a wheelchair. From VIP treatment at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to forming bonds in the 'wheelchair women's club,' this is a tale of resilience, camaraderie, and unexpected discoveries amid unforeseen challenges.

Drawing parallels to personal family history, writer Eric Lucas reflects on the distinction between "the law" and "justice." With a blend of wit and gravity, he challenges the notion that legality always aligns with morality, leaving readers to ponder the complexities of art theft and historical injustices.

Embark on an extraordinary odyssey with Dr. Allen Steven Lycka as he defies the odds, conquering the Minnie Mine trail, not as an athlete, but as a survivor of misdiagnosed ALS. Tackling the uphill battle with a weakened body and unwavering determination, he weaves a narrative of resilience, unexpected kindness, and the triumphant spirit that prevails against life's most formidable challenges.

Digging into deep connections between people and their stuff, Carolyn Handler Miller compares John Steinbeck's Western Flyer to her Subaru Impreza. Reflecting on shared journeys, breakdowns, and revivals, the article culminates in the poignant homecoming of the Western Flyer to Monterey, CA.

In a gripping account, Eric Lucas recounts a near-death experience due to drugs and alcohol four decades ago. Handcuffed to a gurney, he shares an exchange with a paramedic, leading into his journey of addiction recovery. Lucas emphasizes the daily commitment to sobriety and expresses gratitude for the support that has kept him going.

Join Ellen Barone on a Scottish adventure. From the ancient charm of Edinburgh to the coastal haven of Charlestown, her journey unfolds tales of warmth, unexpected friendships, and the timeless allure of Scotland. This is more than a travelogue; it's a love affair with a place that becomes a cherished second home.

Nature-lover Bindu Gopal Rao shares her transformative journey from expecting too much from a wildlife safari to finding joy in the unexpected. Her heartwarming story serves as a reminder that the true beauty of the wild lies in embracing its unpredictability.

Join Noor Anand Chawla on a powerful exploration of self-empowerment and the celebration of individuality as she explores the transformative impact of Indian art, challenging conventional beauty ideals and inspiring a new perspective on self-worth.

Reluctantly joining his family on a mega-ship cruise, Chris Pady reflects on past adventures and an eye-opening youthful encounter in the Dominican Republic. As he grapples with ethical concerns about cruise travel, he discovers unexpected joys and questions the environmental and social impact.

In a serendipitous twist of fate, a dream from the past and a series of uncanny synchronicities lead Elyn Aviva and her husband, Gary, back to Girona, Spain. Amidst the charming medieval streets, they feel at home in ways they don’t quite understand. The journey rekindles Elyn's passion for a long-abandoned novel, and though it remains unfinished, they trust that life's purpose will be revealed.

Join Richard Collins on a journey through the Pyrenees as he reflects on encounters with elusive wildlife and contemplates the paradox of experiencing versus documenting moments. Delve into the tension between fully immersing oneself in an experience or capturing it from a removed vantage point.

David Devine recounts an unexpected cave-dwelling adventure in Maymand, Iran, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite the challenges of cramped caves, basic amenities, and a cold night's sleep, Devine embraces the unique experience, immersing himself in the cave community's history, hospitality, and charm. From the homemade bread to sharing stories with the locals, his stay in Maymand leaves a lasting impression.

Embark on an adrenaline-filled adventure with Nancy King as she recounts her gripping tale of being lost while hiking solo at age 86 as she faces treacherous slopes, deep snow, and unforeseen obstacles. Discover how her resilience and unwavering spirit guided her through the toughest of trials, reminding us all of the indomitable power within ourselves. Share the triumph of finding her way back, and be inspired to tap into your inner strength.

One day Megan Moore made the courageous decision to quit her job and embark on a cross-country road trip with no set plan. Along the way, she finds freedom in being alone, experiencing new things, and meeting people who have taken the road less traveled. This uplifting story reminds us that it is never too late to take risks and explore the world around us.

Erin Coyle shares insider tips on exploring two unique Zanzibar Villages, Pete and Tumbatu, and learning about local traditions while supporting sustainable tourism.

A snowy March weekend hike and bike in upstate New York reminds Kit Fruscione that adventure can be found anywhere and that creating your own sunshine is important, even in the cold and gray days of winter.

In this essay, Gary White explains how he and his wife use spiritual guides called "the Grandmothers" for assistance in their journeys. When Gary and his wife ask the Grandmothers to facilitate an easy transition from Portugal to Spain, they are astounded by the results.

During a guided backpacking trip, Kit Fruscione grows tired of doing camping chores and decides to use candy as leverage to get the work done for her. The sweets work, and Kit becomes known as the "Candy Czar," wielding her newfound power over the other hikers for the remainder of the trip.

At age sixty-four, Ellen Schecter signed up for a Tour du Mont Blanc hike despite her fear of heights. Pushing through nerves, she managed to trek along the steep and narrow trails, climb a ladder secured to the side of a mountain and cross a long swinging bridge high above a canyon. But it all came to a shuddering halt when she found herself petrified on all fours atop the rocky terrain. The mantra she had been repeating—“Feel the fear and do it anyway”—was no longer working.

What do farm animals have to teach us about free will? A lot, it turns out, as Eric Lucas sees it. As well as a lot about Leo Tolstoy's creative tension between free will and the boundaries of our universe. Tolstoy's philosophical question is eternal—and so is the love all our companions bring us, if we only open our eyes.

Six months after losing her partner John Lamkin, Susanna Starr wrote this remarkable letter to Judith Fein, the executive editor of YourLifeIsATrip.com. We share Susanna’s letter with permission as a chronicle of her journey through loss and a source of honest inspiration and insight.

Pamela Blair traveled to Tunisia to experience the beauty of the desert. What she didn't expect was a young camel herder who, when he found she was a psychologist, insisted she help him with a problem. He took her out to a dune, and their session began.

When Elyn Aviva and her husband traveled to Ireland to walk Brigid’s Way Celtic Pilgrimage, nothing went as planned. A friend who agreed to meet them couldn’t. Hotel reservations were canceled. Car rides along country roads and unexpected encounters with friends supplanted long solitary walks in nature. Yet, the journey was every bit a pilgrimage.

Manzanar War Relocation Center was not on anyone's travel itinerary in 1942 when the United States government ordered 11,000 Japanese-Americans to leave their homes to be detained in internment camps. These days, visitors like writer Carolyn Handler Miller come to Manzanar National Historic Site to learn the stories of the people who were important to this place and experience a challenging mix of both injustice and beauty.

Joan Virginia Allen was 80 years old when she told her 50-something-year-old daughter Cami: “When I grow up, I want to be like you.” Thus began an amazing journey that included travel, exploration, inspiration, transformation, and the creation of Allen’s first business.

Launching a small-scale drone program to aid the fight against wildlife poaching in northern Tanzania presents challenges beyond the technology for Mike Chambers and a team at Mkomazi National Park.