With nearly 20 years of solo travel and almost 60 countries under my belt, I remind new explorers: a few smart tips are all it takes for a smooth, safe, adventure.

Creating travel as a priority, choosing the ultimate destination and money saving tips to help your holiday run smoothly.

A two-hour drive from Cusco, Vinicunca — the Mountain of Seven Colors — rises to 16,522 ft in the Andes. Its vivid stripes, born of minerals, shine best in August’s dry season.