Reading these picks before finishing out the Mission Trails Regional Park’s Five Peak Challenge:

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Photo credit: Islands.com

 

  • “This is Your Brain on Nature,” By Florence Williams, National Geographic – There’s a quote running around the internets I like that says, “The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea.” In riding that wave, I am totally on board with its existential implications. Nature is the most economical (did you hear the one about those ClassPass hikes?! #EW) and most invigorating remedies to comfort and inspire mind, body and soul. Science says so, as in this NatGeo article and I know so. I turn to the sea, the trails, mountains and surrounds to refocus, relax, rejuvenate and appreciate. Even when my thighs are screaming up the South Fortuna summit.
  • “11 Reasons the Azores Should Be Your Next Trip,” By Jessica Festa, Jessie On A Journey – Speaking of nature, let’s talk AZORES. I first heard about the Azores some handful of years ago while watching an episode of Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations. Those greens, those volcanoes and that sea! I’ve been reading that the Azores, the independently governed archipelago of Portugal is Europe’s answer to Hawaii. From the photos alone, I can see why; though as a child of the Islands, I’ll let you know when I get back this summer.
  • “5 Sights to Skip in Madrid,” By Courtney of Adelante blog – My travel style is heavy on the hidden gems; in sights, food and active experiences. Though, there’s a reason why the Eiffel Tower is the Eiffel Tower. I enjoyed reading Courtney’s recommendations of alternative and if not better places to eat, things to do and see in Madrid, where I’ll be spending a few weeks in, a few weeks! (Let the packing cube stuffing begin).

 

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Weekend Reads is an almost/kind of/occasionally-weekly series on The Curious Passport and features a round-up of travel news, features and other related links (probably related to food, fitness or the outdoors) I’ve either found around the internet or has been sent my way by friends and family.

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