Welcome to Colorado Saram, the travel blog of John Buckley, a Colorado native and lifelong traveler. Born and raised in the ski resort town of Vail, I worked in resort PR before catching the travel bug, which led to a ski season in New Zealand and a year-long, solo, round-the-world adventure.
My goal? To share a passion for international outdoor adventure—and help guide you to:
Colorado-Inspired Outdoor Travel in Asia & Beyond
Fresh Tracks
Featured Travel Guides & Reader Favorites
Fansipan Peak Cable Car Guide: Cost, Tickets & What to Expect (2025)
Ride Vietnam’s highest cable car to the summit of Fansipan. This self-guided guide covers tickets, transport, summit tips, and what to expect at the Roof of Indochina.
Phu Quoc Travel Guide: Dry Season vs Rainy Season – What to Expect
Trying to decide between visiting Phu Quoc in the dry season or rainy season?
This firsthand travel guide compares both—motorbike adventures, beach bars, sudden storms, and what each season really feels like.
Sapa, Vietnam Without a Tour: A Self-Guided Travel Guide
Explore Sapa, Vietnam, at your own pace—no tours, no guides, just adventure.
Discover self-guided trekking tips, visit Fansipan Peak and Cat Cat Village, and experience the freedom of crafting your own journey in this breathtaking mountain region.
Exploring Daegwallyeong’s Scenic Ranches: Trekking & Camping Guide
Discover the scenic ranches and dog-friendly trekking spots of Daegwallyeong, Gangwon-do.
From Pure Sheep Ranch to Han Neul Sky Ranch and Sanneomi Ranch, this guide covers the best trails, camping spots, and tips for exploring this stunning region year-round.
Jeju Island 5-Day Itinerary: Must-See Places, Including Dog-Friendly Beaches, Activities & More
Planning a trip to Jeju Island? This 5-day itinerary covers scenic coastal drives, must-see attractions, and hidden gems—plus dog-friendly beaches, cafés, and activities for those bringing a furry companion.
Whether you’re driving your own car or renting one, this guide will help you make the most of your Jeju adventure.
How to Rent and Drive a Car in South Korea: A Foreigner’s Complete Guide
South Korea has an excellent public transportation system, but renting or driving a car offers unmatched freedom and flexibility.
Whether you’re visiting short-term or living here long-term, having a car lets you explore hidden gems, reach off-the-beaten-path destinations, and travel on your own schedule.
Jeju Island Ferry Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know
If you’ve decided to visit Jeju Island, South Korea, you’ll soon confront a crucial question: How do I get there? Unless you’re an Olympic swimmer, you essentially have two options: fly or take a ferry. I share my personal experience and explain why opting for the ferry might be your best choice. I’ll also guide you through the process, including how I brought my own car and dog along, to help you decide if Jeju Island Ferry travel is the best option for you.
Salomon S/Pro Alpha Flex 130 Ski Boot Review for Advanced Skiers
A seasoned, former racer reviews the Salomon S/Pro Alpha Flex 130 ski boots. As a high-performance, low-volume option geared towards expert skiers, they offer heat-moldable customization, a stiff flex rating of 130 for control, and GripWalk soles for versatile terrain navigation. Priced at $799.95, the Salomon S/Pro Alpha 130 ski boots represent a sound investment in skiing performance and comfort for serious skiers.
Untethering from WiFi: Your Guide to Airalo eSIM Cards for Global Travel
Planning a trip abroad?
Learn how I used Airalo eSIM cards for seamless connectivity on my Vietnam trip.
From setup to top-ups, this guide covers everything you need to know for hassle-free mobile data while traveling.
Embracing Sobriety: Reflections on My First Year Completely Alcohol-Free
As I celebrate my first full year without alcohol, I look back on the journey and reflect on all the positive changes its absence has brought to my life.
Without minimizing its power, the hold alcohol had on my life feels released. I have no desire to go back to it.
Although it may always be lurking over my shoulder, I rarely even think about it anymore.
I don’t hold any grudges towards it; it gave me some of the best memories of my life. However, it became unsustainable.
They say the opposite of love isn’t hate; it’s indifference. And that’s where I choose to place alcohol for as long as I can.
I just don’t need it anymore.
🇰🇷 Ski South Korea: Best Resorts & Travel Guides
Yongpyong Resort: A Guide to South Korea’s Premier Skiing and Snowboarding Destination
Explore the Olympic-quality slopes of South Korea’s Mona Yongpyong Resort in this detailed guide.
Whether you’re a beginner, advanced skier, or snowboarder, discover which of the resort’s four zones best matches your style.
Find tips on ski lessons with English-speaking instructors, trail maps, dining, and more.
Let me help you plan your ultimate winter adventure in South Korea!
High 1 Resort: A Complete Guide to Skiing and Snowboarding in South Korea
Planning a ski trip in South Korea? High1 Resort is a top destination for skiing and snowboarding, with a variety of trails, lift ticket options, gear rentals, and lessons.
This guide covers everything from accommodations and dining to dog-friendly stays at the ‘Pet Club’ Hill Condo.
Get insider tips to make the most of your trip!
A Complete Guide to Muju Deogyusan Resort: a Hidden Gem in South Korea
Muju Deogyusan Resort is a hidden gem resort destination in South Korea’s Jeollabuk-Do province. Compared to the popular resorts in Gangwon-Do, Muju’s distance from Seoul makes it a more quaint alternative ski destination. This laid-back resort caters to all skill levels and offers diverse accommodation options. Check out this guide and review with terrain highlights, and practical tips for visitors.
Where Will Your Next Adventure Take You?
South Korea
From the ski slopes of Gangwon-do to the beaches of Jeju Island, South Korea offers adventure in every season. As a longtime expat, I’ve explored its mountains, cities, and hidden gems to bring you expert travel guides on skiing, hiking, culture, and more. Whether you're planning a winter getaway or a seaside escape, start your South Korea journey here.
Let's Go! 👉
Vietnam
From the misty mountains of Sapa to the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay and the sandy shores of Phu Quoc, Vietnam is a land of breathtaking contrasts. With multiple trips exploring its landscapes, culture, and cuisine, I’ve gathered insider tips and expert guides to help you experience Vietnam’s best destinations. Whether you’re trekking in the north or unwinding on the coast, start planning your adventure here.
Let's Go! 👉
Japan
Japan is a dream destination for skiers and outdoor lovers, famous for its deep Japow (Japanese powder snow) in Hokkaido and world-class resorts in Hakuba Valley. From carving fresh tracks in Niseko and Rusutsu to exploring the cultural gems of Kyoto and Tokyo, I’ve experienced Japan’s best winter and adventure destinations firsthand. Whether you're planning a ski trip or looking for off-the-beaten-path outdoor escapes, start here.
Let's Go! 👉
Getting Off the Beaten Path
Yangon Township, Myanmar
Heading into the Himalayas
Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
Skiing Across Borders
Hokkaido, Japan