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콜로라도 사람 (Korean)

‘One who Embodies the Colorado Spirit of Outdoor Adventure’

콜로라도 사람 (Korean)

'One who Embodies the Colorado Spirit of Outdoor Adventure'

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.

That year abroad changed the course of my life, eventually making South Korea feel like a second home. Despite years of international travel, I’ve always kept my Colorado roots close to my heart.

My goal is to use my passion for international outdoor adventure to serve as your guide to:

Colorado Saram and dog (Winnie) at Conan Beach, Jeju Island - Korea.

Colorado-Inspired Travel Adventures in Asia & Beyond

Fresh Tracks

Featured

South Korea AdventuresBootsFeaturedPaw Ventures
Woman playing with a dog in a large grassy field at the top of the trekking course at Daegwallyeong Han Neul Sky Ranch. Mountains and windmills are visible in the background.
Exploring Daegwallyeong’s Scenic Ranches: Trekking & Camping Guide

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.

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BeachesFeaturedPaw VenturesSouth Korea Adventures
A dog exploring the natural beauty of Jeju Island, South Korea, with its human companion.
Jeju Island 5-Day Itinerary: Must-See Places, Including Dog-Friendly Beaches, Activities & More

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.

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FeaturedSouth Korea Adventures
The author loads his dog into the car on a ski trip in Gangwon Province, South Korea.
How to Rent and Drive a Car in South Korea: A Foreigner’s Complete Guide

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.

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BeachesFeaturedPaw VenturesSouth Korea Adventures
A couple with their black and white dog on a ferry to Jeju Island, South Korea, with the ocean and mountains in the background at sunset.
Jeju Island Ferry Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

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.

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GearBoardsFeatured
Salomon S/Pro Alpha Flex 130 ski boots in blue and white, a high-performance alpine ski boot designed for expert skiers.
Salomon S/Pro Alpha Flex 130 Ski Boot Review for Advanced Skiers

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.

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🇰🇷 Ski South Korea: Best Resorts & Tips

BoardsSki & Snowboard South KoreaSouth Korea Adventures
A skier stands outside of Dragon Castle at the top of Mona Yongpyong Resort in South Korea, with the Olympic rings in the background.
Yongpyong Resort: A Guide to South Korea’s Premier Skiing and Snowboarding Destination

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!

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BoardsSki & Snowboard South KoreaSouth Korea Adventures
Man standing at the top of the Hera Lift (Mountain Top) at High 1 Resort, South Korea, under the lights for night skiing.
High 1 Resort: A Complete Guide to Skiing and Snowboarding 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!

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BoardsSki & Snowboard South KoreaSouth Korea Adventures
A woman in a bright pink ski suit and a white helmet with a shiny blue visor is skiing down a beginner slope at Muju Deogyusan Resort.
A Complete Guide to Muju Deogyusan Resort: a Hidden Gem in South Korea

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.

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Where Will Your Next Adventure Take You?

Skier standing in front of two snow-covered Jeju stone statues outside Dragon Castle in the Mona Park area of Yongpyong Resort during winter.

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! 👉

A traveler posing on a bridge over the Muong Hoa River in Sapa, Vietnam, with the scenic river and terraced rice fields in the background.

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! 👉

Two skiers standing at the base of Niseko Annupuri Gondola in Hokkaido, Japan, during a heavy snowfall. Dressed in ski gear and holding their skis, they are ready to experience the famous Japow powder conditions. The Niseko Annupuri gondola station and other skiers are visible in the background.

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! 👉

Colorado Saram Defined:

Colorado Saram Defined:

Whether you live in Colorado, have visited on vacation, or have never even heard of it, if you seek to explore the natural world, then you are a Colorado Saram.

Translation: a Colorado person

Think of it like the movie Goodfellas: You ski, you hike, and you like to travel to interesting places. You seek outdoor adventures. Maybe you even have a dog.

In the words of Henry Hill:

“Like you’d say to somebody; You’re gonna like this person. They’re all right. They’re one of us.”

They’re a Colorado Saram.

My goal is to embrace the adventurous spirit that defines us, but also to inspire exploration beyond our borders—whether you’re from Colorado or anywhere else in the world.

Whether you live in Colorado, have visited on vacation, or have never even heard of it, if you seek to explore the natural world, then you are a Colorado Saram.

Translation: a Colorado person

Think of it like the movie Goodfellas: You ski, you hike, and you like to travel to interesting places. You seek outdoor adventures. Maybe you even have a dog.

In the words of Henry Hill:

"Like you’d say to somebody; You’re gonna like this person. They’re all right. They’re one of us."

They’re a Colorado Saram.

My goal is to embrace the adventurous spirit that defines us, but also to inspire exploration beyond our borders—whether you're from Colorado or anywhere else in the world.

Befriended by Myanmar Monks

Getting Off the Beaten Path

Yangon Township, Myanmar

Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal

Heading into the Himalayas

Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

Teaching the family trade to my new wife in Korea

Skiing Across Borders

Hokkaido, Japan