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-Inspired Travel Adventures in Asia & Beyond
Fresh Tracks
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.
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.
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.
Year-Round Trekking and Dog-Friendly Camping in Daegwallyeong, Gangwon Province
I explore the scenic trails and dog-friendly ranches of Daegwallyeong, Gangwon Province, including Pure Sheep Ranch, Han Neul Sky Ranch, and Sanneomi Ranch.
Follow my guide for trekking, camping, and tips to enjoy this beautiful region year-round.
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.
Getting Off the Beaten Path
Yangon Township, Myanmar
Heading into the Himalayas
Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
Skiing Across Borders
Hokkaido, Japan
Trail Map
Content Categories
Boards
Explore My Top International Skiing & Snowboarding Content
Join me on the slopes!
Ski South Korea
Discover the Best Ski Resort Guides in South Korea!
Beaches
International Beach Adventures
Join me on distant beaches!
Boots
Explore International Hiking & Trekking Adventures
Lace up your boots and hit the trails with me!
Paws
Dog-Friendly Travel in South Korea
Explore dog-friendly destinations and adventures with us!
South Korea
Experience the Best of South Korea
Explore the great outdoors in this mountainous country surrounded by stunning beaches!