Welcome to Colorado Saram — a travel blog built by John Buckley, a Colorado native, skier, 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 help fellow adventurers plan smarter, travel deeper, and skip the cookie-cutter tours — whether you’re chasing powder, hiking trails, or traveling with your pup.
Colorado-Inspired Outdoor Adventure Travel in Asia & Beyond
Fresh Tracks
Featured Travel Guides & Reader Favorites
Start here for the most-loved content on Colorado Saram — from trip planning essentials to gear reviews readers keep coming back to. These posts capture the spirit of outdoor adventure travel across Asia.
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: Dog-Friendly Beaches, Cafés, Hikes & Attractions
Planning a Jeju Island 5-day dog-friendly itinerary? This guide includes scenic coastal drives, hidden gems, and must-see attractions—plus the best beaches, cafés, and activities for travelers with dogs.
Whether you’re bringing your own car or renting one, this pet-friendly Jeju adventure is packed with tips for making the most of your time on the island.
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.
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.
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❄️ Skiing in Asia
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🥾 Hiking & Trekking in Asia
From mountain treks in Vietnam to highland hikes in Korea, these guides are built for travelers who prefer dirt trails to tour buses.
You’ll find self-guided adventures in Sapa, summer trekking in Gangwon Province, and coming soon — a full write-up on hiking Hallasan, South Korea’s tallest peak. Whether you’re out for the views, the solitude, or the challenge, lace up — there’s more to come.
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🏝️ Beach Travel in Asia
From volcanic coastlines on Jeju Island to warm turquoise water off Phu Quoc, these guides focus on relaxed beach escapes with a dose of outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re looking for ferry tips, island itineraries, or the best places to swim without the crowds, this section pulls together my favorite beach travel experiences in Korea and Vietnam — with more on the horizon.
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✈️ 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! 👉
Colorado Saram Defined:
Getting Off the Beaten Path
Yangon Township, Myanmar
Heading into the Himalayas
Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
Skiing Across Borders
Hokkaido, Japan