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Live! Live! Live! Life is a banquet and most poor suckers are starving to death!
- Mame Dennis, Auntie Mame
Me, after a seven-hour hike to the top of Mt. Fuji.
About Latitude 35 Travel
My Inspiration
I grew up hearing tantalizing tales about my family's travels to Japan. At 17, my first international trip followed in their footsteps. It was love at first sight. I decided that I had to live there someday, and I did — in Kyoto (which is at latitude 35°!), Kamakura, and Tokyo, for a total of four years. And I still visit often!
I've now traveled to 44 countries and six continents, about half solo. Although I love seeing the world's most famous sights (though I must say, Mona Lisa was a letdown), I really enjoy exploring lesser-known countries and cities; there are fewer tourists and I've had so many uniquely memorable experiences with locals.
So, let's plan your adventure to the 35th parallel and beyond. There's a whole world to discover! Live! Live! Live!
— Karen/Kiki
At Bahrain Fort
A cheetah in Botswana ©Karen Cristello
My Travel Philosophy
Sure, there's a time and place for relaxing on a tropical beach. But in general, I believe that travel should broaden one's perspective and understanding of the world.
Travel — especially meaningful travel — makes the world's past come alive vividly and tangibly through its history, and helps us understand the present. Empathy evolves when learning first-hand about others' languages, cultures, arts, customs, and victories and struggles. Travel illuminates the connections between history, literature, science and art.
There is no better teacher than traveling with an inquisitive, open mind. So go to that beach, but make time to learn about and immerse yourself in the local culture, too.
Make a Positive Impact
The prevalance of tourism, and especially overtourism, deeply concerns me. When we visit a place, we are encroaching on the land and the people who live there.
But it's possible to make a positive impact by traveling responsibly and respectfully.
Be willing to explore alternatives to the most famous cities and sights. Travel in the off season. Volunteer responsibly. Pack sustainably. Support the local economy. Give back to the locals. Respect the culture — learn from them, dress appropriately, and respect all local laws and customs. Be a good guest in their home!
I guarantee, traveling in a thoughtful way will lead to even more amazing experiences!
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat, Oman ©Karen Cristello
Affiliations & Qualifications
I'm an independent travel advisor (a.k.a. adventure designer) and an affiliate of TravelStore (host agency), a member of Signature Travel Network (travel consortium). With these alliances, I have access to thousands of resources plus unique perks, great deals and extraordinary experiences you won't find on your own.
Affiliate, TravelStore
Member, Signature Travel Network
Member, ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors)
Certification in progress, VTA (Verified Travel Advisor), ASTA
Certificate, Signature Travel Expert
Certificate in progress, TAP (Travel Agency Proficiency), Travel Institute