The Trekking Pawns' Diary

Whenever we’re planning a trip, we love diving into a book that takes place in the destination we’re about to explore. It’s our way of setting the mood and getting a feel for the place before we even step foot there. For New Orleans, the challenge wasn’t finding a book—it was choosing one! So many of the stories set here are steeped in voodoo, murder mysteries, and the wild celebrations of Mardi Gras. It seems like New Orleans has a bit of a spooky side, doesn’t it? (Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) (Available on Kindle, Audio, and Paperback via Amazon ) After a bit of searching, we found a book that perfectly captured the vibrant, mysterious energy of the city while also offering a fresh perspective: The Seamstress of New Orleans by Diane C. McPhail. Published in 2022, this historical fiction gem is set against the jasmine-scented backdrop ...

  While planning our upcoming trip to New Orleans , there’s one thing we’ve already decided on: we’re going all in on beignets . The very moment we started talking to people about our trip, three separate conversations began with, “You HAVE to try the beignets.” Without even asking for recommendations, this fried, powdered-sugar-dusted treat was at the top of everyone’s must-try list. (Image: AI generated. Real pictures to come when we go!) (Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) We’ll admit, we’ve never had a beignet before. We’ve had donuts—plenty of donuts—but from what we’ve heard, beignets are something else entirely. Curious, we dug into their history via the Food Network (recipies can also be found here ). Beignets, as we learned, are square, puffy pastries made with a less-sweet dough and fried to golden perfection before being bu...

(image: AI Generated) Happy New Year, fellow wanderers! 🥳 We hope your holiday season was filled with love, joy, and plenty of good food (we know ours was!). As the clock struck midnight and we welcomed 2025, we couldn’t help but reflect on the amazing year we had in 2024. From weekend getaways to longer trips, it was truly a year to remember. And now, we’re excited to share our plans for 2025 – starting with a trip to New Orleans and a week-long cruise around the Gulf of Mexico ! (Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) But before we dive into all the exciting details, we’d like to pause and acknowledge some sad news we came across as we prepared for this adventure. The New Year’s Parade tragedy in New Orleans weighed heavily on our hearts. It’s a reminder that safety should always come first, whether you're at home or on the road. Naturally,...

  If you’re not an experienced hiker or prefer not to hike alone, then a Great Wall of China tour might be the perfect option for you. Here's everything you need to know to decide whether a tour is worth it: ( Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) Types of Tours The Great Wall of China offers a range of tour options tailored to different preferences: Private Tours : Enjoy a personalized experience with a dedicated guide who caters to your interests and pace. Group Tours : A budget-friendly option that also provides a chance to socialize with fellow travelers. Multi-Day Tours : For those looking to deeply immerse themselves, these tours often include exploration of additional cultural and historic sites in China. Benefits of Tours Opting for a guided tour can enhance your experience in several ways: Expert Knowledge : Gain valuable insights ab...

  When planning your trip to the Great Wall, finding the right place to stay can make all the difference. Here’s an overview of your accommodation options: ( Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) Hotels : From budget-friendly choices to luxury retreats, hotels near the Wall offer a range of amenities to suit every traveler. Popular options include: Brickyard Retreat at Mutianyu Great Wall : This eco-friendly hotel combines modern comfort with stunning views. DoubleTree by Hilton Beijing Badaling : Enjoy world-class hospitality and breathtaking Wall vistas. Jinshanling Great Wall Hotel : Perfect for travelers looking for an immersive stay near the Wall. Hostels: Ideal for budget-conscious adventurers, hostels offer affordable stays with a social vibe, often perfect for meeting fellow travelers. Guesthouses : Guesthouses are an excellent choice ...

  Whether it’s your first time visiting the Great Wall or you’re a seasoned traveler, preparation is key to making the most of this iconic experience . Here are some essential tips to ensure your visit is both enjoyable and memorable. ( Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) What to Wear The Great Wall’s terrain can be challenging, so choosing the right attire is crucial. Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for steep climbs. Summer: Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics are best to combat the heat. Winter: Layer up with warm clothing, as temperatures can drop below freezing. Don’t forget gloves and a hat! Year-Round: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves to protect against the sun’s rays. What to Bring Pack smart for a smooth and enjoyable journey: Water: Stay hydrated, especially if you’re planning a ...

  Hiking the Great Wall of China is a once-in-a-lifetime experience , offering breathtaking views, rich history, and a rewarding challenge. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your adventure: ( Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) Hiking Difficulty Hiking the Great Wall can be demanding, so it's essential to select a section that aligns with your fitness level. Some areas are steep with uneven steps, requiring a good level of physical preparation. Assess your hiking abilities and choose wisely for an enjoyable experience. Best Hiking Routes Each section of the Great Wall provides unique scenery and challenges. Consider these top hiking routes: Jiankou to Mutianyu : Ideal for experienced hikers, this route offers awe-inspiring views and a mix of wild and restored sections. Jinshanling to East Gate : Known for its ico...