Colorado-Inspired International Travel: Trail Map

A Border Collie dog is standing in front of a scenic waterfall, wearing the Ruffwear Front Range Daypack. The dog appears happy and comfortable with the backpack.

Ruffwear Front Range vs. Switchbak, Singletrak, and OneTigris: Dog Pack Review

The review explores the Ruffwear Front Range Dog Day Pack, which was trail-tested with my Border Collie, Winnie. Although pleased with the sturdiness and design, I reflect on the fact that a more compact option like the Ruffwear Switchbak may have been more suitable for my dog and our lack of deep backcountry adventures. I delve into additional alternatives such as the pricier Ruffwear Singletrak, which offers hydration bladders, and the
more economical OneTigris Dog Pack.

John Buckley May 16, 2024 11 min read

A dog exploring the natural beauty of Jeju Island, South Korea, with its human companion.

Beaches Featured Paws South Korea Life & Travel

Exploring Jeju Island: A 5-Day Dog-Friendly Adventure Itinerary

In summer 2023, we packed up the family car in Daegu, South Korea and traveled to Jeju Island by ferry. This is a dog-friendly, 5-day itinerary of our adventure.

John Buckley Apr 10, 2024 19 min read

A family with a border collie poses on the deck of a ferry sailing from mainland South Korea to Jeju Island.

Featured Paws South Korea Life & Travel

Smooth Sailing: Complete Guide to Jeju Island Ferry Travel

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.

John Buckley Mar 9, 2024 19 min read

A person is skiing at Copper Mountain Resort in Colorado, wearing Salomon S/Pro Alpha Flex 130 ski boots and K2 Pontoon skis. The skis were later transported back to South Korea in the Sukoa padded ski bag.

Boards Featured Gear

Sukoa Premium Padded Ski Bag: My Top Pick for Air Travel in 2024

After years of using rental skis in South Korea, I recently purchased the Sukoa Premium Padded Ski Bag to transport my old K2 Pontoon skis from Colorado to live with me in Korea. Though the Sukoa was the right choice for me, I delve into several more expensive options like the TOURIT Rolling Ski and Boot Bag Combo and the Thule Roundtrip Ski Bag which may suit those willing to pay a bit more for rolling capabilities.

John Buckley Feb 21, 2024 7 min read

During the Covid era, I spent a lot of time soaking up rays and drinking beer on my deck in Daegu, South Korea

Alcohol-Free Life & Travel

Recognizing Alcohol Abuse Warning Signs: My Journey to Sobriety

Like many people around the world, 2020 was the tipping point for an already problematic drinking career. With a sense of gallows humor, these are the 7 warning signs that finally pushed me to address my alcohol use.

John Buckley Feb 15, 2024 41 min read

You might be surprised to find out that your home multi-resort pass will let you ski in places like Japan.

Boards Featured

Multi-Resort Ski Passes: Compare Ikon, Epic, Mountain Collective, and Indy for Global Adventures

Ski passes today can take you much further than your home resort. Ever considered a ski/snowboarding trip abroad? You may be able to do so without buying lift tickets. I'm here to explain where you can use your Epic Pass, Ikon Pass, Mountain Collective or Indy Pass.

John Buckley Nov 11, 2023 15 min read