I've had countless conversations with women about this. It's a common challenge, but a conversation worth having with your partner to advocate for the transformative power of solo travel. Here are some tips on how to approach the budget convo.

I’m in the mood to get real about money, and I want to get into how to master the mental moves that happen behind-the-scenes of big purchases. So, buckle up because I'm whisking you away to the vibrant souks of Marrakesh, where I found myself entangled in a whirlwind of colors, culture, and, of course, rugs!

Italy has this magic that keeps pulling me back – more than any other place. It's like my heart found its favorite spot to dance in the world. I've traveled here more than any other country. I call it my personal Eat, Pray, Love destination. Seriously, it's the nurturing ground for my soul.

Recently, I've found myself reflecting on the essence of travel, the pure joy it brings, and it's got me thinking a lot about treating ourselves to our own adventure.

As we step into the New Year, I want to share a personal reflection that has significantly shaped my own journey. We frequently find ourselves in a groove-perhaps a fantastic one-but it often hinders us from seeing beyond our routine. The most impactful approach to break free from this cycle is by embracing change. Want to know the quickest way to make a shift in your life?

Dare to Detour hosted its first-ever Dinner with Darlings event. And it was a truly remarkable evening of connection, shared experiences, and empowerment. The gathering brought together a diverse group of women who showed up fully and embraced the spirit of the event.

The thing is, as much as you plan and prepare, you can't know exactly how things are going to roll on the road. Even good road trips have bad days, and unplanned Detours are always a possibility.

Answer: It depends on the things you prioritize as investments in your life. Some people view travel as a luxury item. But for me, it's an essential investment in self. Therefore, investing in travel is important to me.

I’ve been thinking a lot about the adventures I’m still hoping to schedule before Montana’s winter weather hits. And also, I’ve been very reflective about the amazing experiences I’ve had so far this year, some in far-flung places, and what would be additive. It got me thinking…

Sometimes, life throws us unexpected curveballs. Last week, I embarked on a Detour into the breathtaking Beartooth Mountains of southwest Montana. Accompanied by a group of amazing women - my Daring Darlings - this journey turned out to be a deeply personal experience.

My recap of a Montana dude ranch experience.

This was my 6th(!) year bringing a group of Darlings to Detour at the Nine Quarter Circle Ranch in Big Sky... and I decided to put a twist on this one.

First I will say, Morocco is NOT for the faint of heart.

Even though we broke up our daily activities with rest in the shade and unique experiences in amazing places, the heat and seemingly constant exploration on foot were real - I think we averaged close to 16,000 steps/day?! This being said Morocco was both transformational and incredibly humbling.

Let's face it. Everything gets a little harder to recover from as you get older.

Including jetlag.

At the end of the day, there’s no true cure for jet lag other than time and rest, but here are some of my rituals and tips for long-haul flights that help ease the change into new time zones:

I’ve seen a lot of life and a lot of change in my life, and mostly, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of Detours. Through them, I’ve encountered many opportunities to grow and evolve. I know that taking risks is often essential to finding true fulfillment, and travel is a great way to do that. So now, I seek them out actively.

Every Detour is a journey of self-discovery and growth.

I find that the best way to maximize the impact of the work I do with the group is to take a solo trip to reflect and integrate my learnings.

A solo female travel experience is incredible for the soul — at any age.

I am deeply passionate about this and believe it to my core. Providing safe and meaningful opportunities for women to experience travel is the intention behind Dare to Detour and it's at the root of our mission.

Do you ever find yourself thinking…?

I want to design the next chapter of my life on my terms. But I'm worried that it's too late to start.

But it will change your life.

Detouring has become my religion.

Why?

Because Detours shift perspective.

You might be wondering why I chose Morocco as a place to travel as a woman.

And why do I think Morocco is such an important place for us to Detour?

Why you can (and should) make a travel budget.

Are budgets your B*&%$ or your BFF? For most of my adult life budgets have been a B*&%$. In 2022 I made the decision to make a major shift, and step by step, I've been turning that B*&%$ into my BFF.

So what have I learned?