But, her life now looks remarkably different from how it used to. 13 years ago, Mary was struggling with daily addiction. But, it was the brave and powerful steps she took back then toward her recovery that led her to create the beautiful life she has now. Nine years sober, Mary is now an Addiction Recovery Coach, passionately committed to ending the stigma, showing others how to get sober, and supporting them on their journey.

Skye Gilkeson | Cover Image via Ashley Drody

Mary Tilson has completely transformed her life by getting sober and teaches others how to get sober too.| © Tania Araujo

You are now 9 years sober. Congratulations! Tell us a bit about your personal path to sobriety…

Thank you! It was around 13 years ago that I began secretly questioning whether I struggled with addiction. The harmful consequences of my drinking and drug use had started to far outweigh any benefits, and yet, I couldn’t seem to stop.

Like so many others, I had developed a pretty strong set of beliefs that I needed alcohol to socialize, have fun, release stress, date, and so forth.

I also fell into the trap of using external achievements like maintaining a high GPA and getting promoted at work to justify why I wasn’t that bad.

In 2010, I went to outpatient treatment and started attending AA meetings for a brief period but quickly went back to drinking, convinced I could get a handle on it. Those next few years were filled with a lot of denial, inner turmoil, and confusion because of it.

I finally had a wake-up call on April 27, 2013, and made the decision to surrender fully to the path of recovery with a newfound enthusiasm for building a fulfilling life free from addiction. 

What role did yoga play in your recovery and lifestyle shift? 

It’s played such an important role, it’s hard to know where to begin.

For one, my daily yoga and meditation practice helps me stay anchored in the present moment, which immediately alleviates so much of the suffering tied to past experiences and fears about the future.

It’s increased my capacity to be with discomfort, versus seeking relief through substances or harmful behaviors.

It’s enabled me to access and widen the space between impulse and action, which leads to more conscious decision-making.

Yoga also offers us a powerful set of tools to regulate the nervous system when the relief we’ve become accustomed to is no longer available to us. This is also important because when we’re dysregulated, we’re much more susceptible to cravings.

Having that daily check-in has allowed me to pick up on early warning signs when I’m off balance, and make necessary shifts in my day to prioritize self-care when needed, even if that’s just taking a little bit of time to disconnect and take a walk in nature.

I really believe all healing and self-care should have an integrated mind-body approach. 

Was the shift for you gradual or quite immediate once you had decided to become sober? 

I would say both. My life changed pretty dramatically from an outward perspective after getting sober.

I quit my job in digital advertising, got certified to become a yoga teacher, and moved across the world all within the first year.

But the real inner work has been much more gradual and will be a lifelong journey.

When I first got sober, I needed to relearn healthy ways to navigate difficult emotions, and social situations, rebuild confidence, practice self-care, and so forth, and all of that takes time.

Would you say your practice is essential for maintaining your sobriety on a daily basis?  

Definitely. There’s an obvious shift in the way I feel when I don’t make time for some form of conscious movement or meditation.

Even if it’s just a super short and simple check-in, it’s been key and I genuinely look forward to it!

What do you think the hardest part of the journey has been for you? 

Overcoming my fear of how my relationships would be impacted and learning to navigate social situations where alcohol is present.

I will say though, for anyone who has that fear, sobriety has been the greatest thing to happen to my social life and relationships.

The work has really been about deconstructing where those beliefs come from and practicing self-acceptance.

How is your life different now from a decade ago? 

10 years ago I was living in Chicago, working in a cubicle under artificial lights at a digital advertising agency.

I was drinking seven nights a week and using Adderall and cocaine to fuel a “work hard, play hard” lifestyle.

I was completely disconnected from myself and nature.

Today, my priorities have changed completely. I find incredible joy in the simple things. Getting outside in nature every day, conscious movement, meditation, and genuine human connection are non-negotiables.

I still have challenging days, but I don’t turn to coping strategies that ultimately make my life worse.

Above all, I’m grateful that I’ve gotten to spend most of the last decade sharing what I love – hosting retreats internationally, teaching yoga and meditation, and coaching others through their recovery journey.

What would you say to someone who is sober-curious on how to get sober or begin that journey? 

1. Try taking a month off of alcohol, and notice how your life changes. I always recommend This Naked Mind by Annie Grace, a paradigm-shifting book that has really expanded the conversation about sobriety beyond addiction recovery circles. This will help with making an honest inquiry into what’s shaped your beliefs about alcohol up until this point and the true impact it’s having on your life. 
2. Start to follow people who normalize sobriety versus glamorize drinking.
3. Listen to podcasts (like the Sun & Moon Sober Living Podcast).
4. Join sober communities online and in person.
5. Explore new hobbies and activities that don’t involve drinking, and keep an open mind!

Everyone has unique circumstances, so in some cases, seeking out support from a therapist is useful and necessary.

At what point in your own recovery did you realize you now had the capacity to help others on their journey? 

I think we can all help others in meaningful ways by simply offering a non-judgmental ear and providing unconditional love and support, and I’ve always made an effort to offer the same generous support to the recovery community that was given to me.

On a professional level, it was after three years of continuous sobriety and completing specialized training in trauma-informed yoga, addiction recovery, and Y12SR Leadership Training that I hosted my first workshop on Yoga for Addiction Recovery.

I later became certified as a Professional Recovery Coach before beginning to work 1:1 and in a group coaching format.

You live in a very beautiful but quite rural part of the world. Do you think that makes it any easier to stay sober? How much of a factor is your environment? 

Yes and no. There’s a lot of research to support how being in a natural environment can lower stress hormone levels, reduce anxiety, enhance mood, and calm the nervous system, and all of those factors support sobriety.

Living close to nature has also typically meant living close to others who prioritize a healthy lifestyle, versus a city where you’re more likely to be surrounded by a heavy drinking culture.

That said, I really resonate with the quote, “Wherever you go, there you are” and don’t think you can rely solely on a location cure. I’ve had to confront my own inner demons, even in paradise! 

Never happier. Mary Tilson shares her tips for getting sober and thriving. Image Mary Tilson

What first sparked the idea for Sun & Moon Sober Living?

The idea to help end the stigma around addiction and serve the recovery community had been brewing in me for a long time.

But, it was the rapid decline in mental health and increase in alcohol consumption during the pandemic that drove me to take action on it.

How is this program different from others offered around the world? 

It’s an inclusive, community-based approach that doesn’t require you to identify as an alcoholic or addict or assume any labels.

We promote the message that sobriety is an empowered lifestyle choice that everyone can benefit from, and aim to remove the stigma of sobriety that can so often stand in the way of people feeling their best.

The focus is on getting to the root of what drives us to turn to substances and harmful behaviors in the first place and establishing a holistic set of self-care practices to promote sustainable long-term sobriety. 

The name Sun & Moon also carries a lot of symbolism.

It’s about embracing the entirety of the human experience, the light, and the dark; acknowledging our cyclical nature, growth, and decay, and creating harmony within ourselves, each other, and our environment. 

What can participants expect when they join your program? 

The Holistic Sober Living Course is an opportunity to deconstruct your beliefs about alcohol and begin building a fulfilling life alcohol-free.

Participants can expect a total mindset shift around drinking, and to walk away with a solid set of skills and practices that support making positive changes in all areas of their lives.

We cover the physiological impact of drinking on the body, and the nervous system, the science of behavior change, habit formation, establishing healthy boundaries, practical skills like how to turn down alcohol in social situations, navigating shame, self-compassion and so much more.

It’s an 8-week group program with 8 unique video training modules, 8 live group coaching calls, a workbook, an on-demand library of guided meditations, and a private group chat.

What kind of support is offered after those initial intensive 8 weeks? 

I offer free virtual community gatherings, which anyone can be a part of, as well as 1:1 coaching for ongoing support.

There is also an abundance of free resources shared across social, on my email list, and weekly podcast episodes with leading experts in the field of addiction recovery, mental health, and yoga and meditation.

What plans lay ahead for Sun and Moon?

We just completed the first group program, and enrolment has just opened for the next group.

I’m in the process of building out shorter, bite-size workshops and also offer 1:1 sobriety coaching. Sign up for membership here.

Learn more about Mary’s Sober Living program here, sign up for the course here, connect with her on Instagram here, and subscribe to her podcast here.

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson

Sydney coastal walks are the best way to see parts of the city unseen by many visitors.| © Skye Gilkeson

5 Breathtaking Sydney Coastal Walks

Bondi to Bronte Walk

The Bondi to Bronte walk is one of the most famous Sydney coastal walks. It is also one of the easiest and most accessible on the list.

A daily running route for me at one stage, if you are hoping to run this route, you will need to start at sunrise before it becomes too busy to enjoy it. Also, avoid trying this walk on the weekend as it becomes super busy.

This isn’t a walk to take if you are hoping for some solidarity and thinking time in the bush (like some of the others below). However, it is a wonderful way to see this stunning stretch of coastline, featuring Bondi Beach, Tamarama, Mackenzie’s Bay with plenty of people watching along the way.

If you have a little more time and energy, continue on from the end of Bronte Beach on the track that will take you from Bondi to Coogee. It adds on about an additional 4 kilometres, but it’s a lovely, easy track, taking you through Clovelly and past Gordon’s Bay.

You will arrive at Coogee beach stretching out in front of you and conveniently at the front door of Coogee Pavilion, the perfect place for a refreshment break before you walk or catch the bus back.

Distance: 2.5km

Time: 1 hour+ / to Coogee 2.5 hours+

Terrain: Easy pathways. Suitable for children and prams (but you will need help lifting and lowering the pram up and downstairs in sections).

Map: Access the Bondi to Bronte Walk map here. Access the Bondi to Coogee map here.

Find and book Sydney tours and activities on Viator

Early morning light at Bronte Beach, Sydney. | © Skye Gilkeson

Watsons Bay Walk

The Watsons Bay walk is another very accessible track taking you from Watsons Bay to Hornby Lighthouse and back.

The walk starts at the Watsons Bay ferry terminal near Robertson Park (the central park at Watsons Bay featuring a small playground and views of the boats in the bay), walk the wharf side on the water towards Camp Cove via Cove Street. Camp Cove is one of Sydney’s best-kept secrets and a lovely place to spend a day with the family having a picnic, swimming, snorkelling and relaxing.

At the north end of Camp Cove beach, the South Head Heritage trail starts. This 1-kilometre loop track takes you past Lady Bay Beach and the historic Hornby Lighthouse.

Simply make your way back again by retracing your steps back to Watsons Bay.

Once you are back in Watsons Bay, make sure you take the time to walk over to The Gap Park, a panoramic viewing spot with a tragic history. Then, stop in for some lunch at the Watsons Bay Hotel or the quaint Dunbar House across the park.

Avoid this track on weekends if you are able to as there are many visitors arriving in Watsons Bay on the weekends, particularly in Summer.

Parking is also a challenge on weekends, so if you are only spending a weekend in Sydney, try to catch a bus up to Watsons Bay from Rose Bay or a ferry from Circular Quay or across from Manly if you are staying in northern Sydney.

Distance: 2.8km

Time: 1.5+ hours return

Terrain: Very easy walk.

Map: Access the Watsons Bay Walk map here.

Related: How to Spend a Weekend in Sydney

Take the time to stop at The Gap before or after your Watsons Bay Walk. | © Skye Gilkeson

Spit to Manly Coastal Walk

This is a trail I used to run a couple of times a week. If you love an easy trail run or walk, this is a lovely way to get from the Spit Bridge to Manly along the foreshore and well away from the roads.

You’ll find yourself in narrow, winding bushland tracks one minute and popping out at Clontarf beach the next. The terrain is varied; taking you through the bush, along the sand, footpaths and offering incredible views from vantage points the likes of Dobroyd Head.

Once in Manly, stop in for a well-deserved lunch or a drink at Manly Greenhouse or a local favourite, The Wharf Bar.

Getting back home is simple; either grab the bus back towards the lower North Shore, the Northern Beaches or jump on the ferry or Jetcat to Circular Quay in Sydney city.

To add more of a challenge or some extra distance, start at Balmoral beach and work your way up the hill and back down over Spit Bridge before starting the Spit to Manly Coastal trail.

Distance: 10 km

Time: 3.5 hours+

Terrain: Medium. Not suitable for small children.

Map: Access the Spit to Manly Coastal Walk map here.

Related: Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Bondi

Waves rolling in at Manly Beach Sydney. | Holger Link

Bondi to Manly Walk

Sydney’s most exciting new walk is an epic 80 kilometres long, connecting two of our most famed beaches. Work your way through sections at a time, or take on the whole trail over a series of days with one of the organised tours (including accommodation stops).

Most of the trail takes you through well-maintained public bushland, with the remainder on marked public footpaths.

This is the ideal way for an active traveller to take in some of Sydney’s most iconic sights while avoiding one of our worst traits; the dreaded Sydney traffic. Highlights on the walk include Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, South Head, Cremorne Point and many more Sydney vantage points.

Distance: 80km

Time: Depends on how you break up the route.

Terrain: Difficult due to the distance. Well maintained bush tracks and public footpaths. For the avid hiker or ultra-distance walker or runner.

Map: Access the Bondi to Manly Walk map here.

Related: Q Station Manly Review

The iconic Bondi Beach is the starting point for many Sydney coastal walks, including the new Bondi to Manly track. | © Skye Gilkeson

Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk

A quick, steep climb, the Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk is a good option for those who love more of a vertical hike.

Starting at Palm Beach, the narrow track carries you up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse. You will be rewarded by a scenic panorama featuring Palm Beach outstretched below to the left and Pittwater to the right.

Starting at Station Beach carpark follow the signs to Smugglers Track, keeping the water on your left. You will find signs to the lighthouse to guide you on the rest of the climb.

If you are visiting on a Sunday, join a tour of the lighthouse. They take about 30 minutes and run between 11 am and 3 pm.

Don’t run away from Palm Beach straight away after your walk. The Boathouse Palm Beach is a lovely spot to enjoy lunch.

Distance: 2.3 km (return)

Time: 1 hour+

Terrain: Parts of this walk are very steep.

Map: Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk map here.

Related: A Healthy Travel Guide to Byron Bay

Palm Beach from the Barrenjoey Track, Sydney. | Bee Balogun

What to Wear for a Sydney Coastal Walk

Sydney is agreeable weather but it can become stiflingly hot on high summer days. So, it is really important to make sure you dress appropriately when taking on any of these Sydney Coastal Walks. Wear comfortable, sweat-wicking activewear.

Wear appropriate footwear. For most of these walks, a good pair of sneakers with grip should be fine. If you are taking on the mammoth Bondi to Manly route, you may want to consider more sturdy hiking sneakers.

Many of these trails carry you through scrub and bushland. You may come across small water crossings or rocky sections. Please ensure you carry a map with you and you are of an adequate fitness level before taking on each.

Carry a water bottle and a snack and wear sunscreen and a hat.

Related: 5 of the Best Hikes Near Wanaka, New Zealand

Sydney’s Balmoral Beach on a moody day. Another beautiful starting point to some Sydney coastal walks. | © Skye Gilkeson

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Emma Judd | Updated 2023

Emma Judd and running partner Dee running through Central Park. She shares her NYC Marathon training plan. | © Emma Judd

How to Enter the New York Marathon

How do I run the New York City Marathon, you’re asking?

Runners can enter the New York City Marathon via a few different avenues. There is a non-guaranteed entry drawing (the New York Marathon lottery), divided into “NYC-metro area” applicants, other “National” applicants and “International” applicants.

Applicants find out if they have gained entry in around February. Runners not accepted via the drawing or who simply want to help a cause can run for a charity.

For international runners seeking guaranteed entry, look into purchasing a “Marathon Package” (including flights, hotel and entry) through one of the partners, International Tour Operators (ITO).

My marathon story started in January 2017. I contacted a friend who was living in New Zealand, Dee, as I thought a fit holiday to New Zealand and taking on the Auckland Half Marathon while I was there would be a good idea.

Dee had other ideas. It wasn’t a complete shock, as a colleague of ours had done the New York Marathon a couple of years prior and absolutely loved it – but I just never thought I would do it.

In a matter of weeks, we’d enquired with our friends at the MND and Me Foundation, booked our travel and entered the New York City Marathon.

Once you commit, you’re all in, so book wisely and months in advance if you can; you need all the training time you can allow, especially if it’s your first marathon.

It’s a life-defining experience. You realise what your body is capable of. The NYC Marathon is an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life. No regrets. Just do it.

Read Next | The Best Travel Gifts for Her

The streets of the iconic setting for the NYC Marathon. Image by Jon Flobrant

Travelling to New York

• If I had my time again, I might have gone to New York sooner, as the Marathon vibe and shenanigans commence that week (follow @nymarathon on Instagram). Honestly, the whole city is into the marathon vibe. It’s the best.
• Pack your marathon clothes and necessities with you in your carry-on. How annoying would it be if your luggage got lost and you didn’t have all your pre-prepared clothing, gels and other essentials to run? It would mean an uncomfortable marathon for you.
• Ubers from JFK airport are near impossible to get, so suck it up and grab a cab or pre-organise another way to get to your New York hotel (Click here for New York City Hotel Deals).
• You need to pick up your race pack on either the Friday or Saturday preceding Race Day Sunday. Due to flight times, I actually didn’t get in until super late on Friday, so Saturday was my only option to visit Race Pack Collection.

Where to Stay for the New York Marathon

There are many international partners for the New York Marathon and they offer event packages. Simply search NYC Marathon packages by country.

We opted for a 3-night package that included accommodation at The New Yorker and race day entry. Our package included accommodation up to and including race day night. 

Thanks to a tip from a friend who had done the marathon the previous year, we extended our stay by one night so we could have more recovery time.

The Best New York Marathon Hotels

It is best to book your hotel for the New York Marathon as soon as you decide to enter as hotels book out as early as the first quarter of the year.

Hotels near the finish line include The Wallace, Arthouse Hotel, the Mandarin Oriental and Lucerne Hotel.

Hotels near the bus to the starting line include the Grayson Hotel and the Gotham Hotel.

Search other NYC hotels below.

New York Marathon Training Plan

So, you’ve booked your accommodation, entry and flights. But the only guarantee you’ll get to that NYC marathon finish line is through dedication to your training. 

As soon as you start clocking some serious kilometres, you’ll realise chafe is very real, blisters are the devil and nutrition is key. 

The saying “If it’s meant to be, it’s up to me” has never been more true. Each week you check off the training schedule is one week closer to the big day.

That day will come, regardless of whether you have trained or not.

Doing enough running training is important so you can enjoy the event and you’ll experience New York’s five boroughs in the most spectacular way that only a New York Marathoner can truly understand.

How do you create a marathon training plan?

• Choose a New York Marathon training plan that suits your lifestyle. The best marathon training plan is the one that works for you, your schedule and to achieve your personal goals. For Dee and I, that meant a distance-based training schedule, based on a minimum of kilometres/miles per week, which was flexible around our work and life commitments, slowly increasing kilometres /miles in a realistic way for an approximate marathon goal time we were aiming for. While tough (and that 80 km (49-mile) week was laughable at the start), we stuck to it and it obviously worked for us. We have the medals to prove it.
• Set a race target time. Whether you are a beginner marathon runner or you’ve run a couple of marathons, you will need to set a race target time. That will help you establish a race pace to work towards. Then, you can create a marathon training guide around those times and have a super clear goal which will carry you through the race.

• Join a running group. Or if you’re fundraising with a charity, join their organised sessions. A bonus is meeting the people in your city who actually like running, will be there for the long training runs, and won’t bail on you.
• Track your runs via a training watch or running app like STRAVA. It’s a good way to see your improvements and consistently track your pace over time.
• Free New York Marathon Training Plan. This is a 20-week marathon training plan pdf for you to download and use as a guide (it’s in km and miles). It is a first-time marathon training plan but I had a good base level of fitness so wouldn’t necessarily suit all beginner marathon runners.
• If you are a new runner, you may want to start with a walk-run marathon training plan to start out more slowly and build up to a shuffle.

Emma is on a training run in her hometown of Brisbane. Australia. | © Dee Gregory

There isn’t actually anything “bad” about marathon training as it’s really exciting and such an awesome challenge. Things that are (not so) bad include:

• Running. All the time. Plan your weekly run schedule in advance to make it realistic and easy for yourself. Don’t leave those kilometres all to the end of the week – you’ll regret it. Keep to your running plan no matter what. Even if you don’t feel like running – run. Picture that finish line; that’s your why.
• Running shoes are like tyres and can only do so many kilometres.
• Running partners may cancel on you, so get used to your own company. Anyone not training for a marathon may think you are a bit nuts, so they may cancel on your 26km run date together – as appealing as it sounds. You cannot let this hinder your training. Get up and go, my friend. The road to the finish line can be a lonely one, sometimes.
• Chafe and blisters. The pain. Anything you can do to mitigate pain, try it on your training runs and get into a routine.

Related: 15 Stylish and Useful Travel Gifts for Women

The road to the New York City Marathon may be paved with a few solo runs, but Emma says it is worth it in the end. | © Emma Judd

What to Wear for New York Marathon Training

When it comes to New York marathon gear the rule is: New everything. New shoes, new socks, new running belt, new water bottles, new anti-chafe stick, new lollies, new running gloves and neck warmer (you’ll be training in winter and running in the New York cold), many new pairs of tights, new visor, new sunscreen, new fave running shirts. But remember, nothing new on race day. Everything in the list below should be tried and tested in your training sessions.

• Best marathon shoes: HOKA ONEONE were, for me, the best shoes for marathon training. Light, cushioned. I honestly felt like I was running on clouds.
• Best marathon socks: Feetures running socks. I have three pairs I love them so much. They are supportive, cushioned and comfortable.
• Best marathon running belt and water bottles: Fiipbelt. Yes. You will need a running belt to carry all of your things. It may seem super nerdy or super serious runner person, but you’ll learn to love it. I even take mine on shorter runs now – it’s super convenient.
• Best anti-Chafe Stick: Body Glide. Don’t even think. Just buy it and use it wisely. This anti-chafe stick saves bodies.
• Best marathon hydration gels and nutritional support: I’d recommend trying a few running gels and electrolyte tablets on your training runs. I personally liked these brands: Nuun and Gu (their chocolate gel tastes like melted chocolate).
• Best marathon tights: I tried a few brands, but none were as comfortable or anti-chafe as 2XU compression tights. I wouldn’t run without them now.
• Best Marathon top: Just wear something you are comfortable in and make sure you have trained in it. We like the
  2XU running tops or the Lululemon running tops.

What to Wear to the New York Marathon

Again, only wear clothes you have been training in (nothing new on race day).

I wore a singlet, compression running tights, sports, bra, hat/visor, running belt (carrying water, lollies, salt tablets, gels), a neck warmer and running gloves (optional), shoes and socks, warm clothes that you are happy to donate to charity (you remove these just before your start time). 

You will also need a bib number and pins, a running watch and an old towel or rug you can sit on while you wait (and you are happy to leave behind).

The Marathon Countdown

Sooner than you know, you’ll hit “peak week” (your maximum kilometres/miles per week) and then you’ll be on smooth sailing to event week. This is where you’ll test your New York Marathon training plan. All that hard work is about to pay off.

Next thing you know, you’ll be boarding a plane bound for New York City. When you get to New York, you’ll be super excited and super exhausted, so hopefully you can get a good night’s sleep.

When you head to the Race Pack Collection, plan to spend a few hours there. You are going to want all of the merchandise. Also, I would highly recommend sitting in on a race rundown session, grabbing a wristband for the pace you’re aiming for and planning your course family meet-ups and photo ops using the neat tools they have available.

Use the opportunity to race plan with your running buddies; where will you stop for toilet breaks, and nutrition breaks, decide whether you’re happy to run together or not, etc.

On race day, it’s easier for a runner to find a family member in the crowd rather than the other way around – so try to note what your support crew are wearing and a specific time and location.

The Night Before the Race

3 pm: Layout your race kit and pack your clear bag to take to the start line (you get an option of taking a bag for collection or getting a post-race cape. Choose the post-race cape and only pack what you need or you can throw away) and make your breakfast for the next morning.

5 pm: Early carbohydrate-load dinner. I highly recommend Italian and we ate at Basso56 which was delicious.

7 pm: You’ll be excited but go to sleep with your phone and watch on charge.

Read Next | The Ultimate New York City Christmas Holiday Checklist

Emma and Dee waiting to start the New York City Marathon. Image © Emma Judd

New York Marathon Race Day Schedule

The New York Marathon starts on Staten Island and finishes in Central Park New York.

5 am: Wake up and eat a carbohydrate-loaded breakfast (oats/bananas etc), get dressed (including anti-chafe gel + sunscreen)

6 am: Bus to Staten Island. The line is huge but it will move quickly. Remember, the authorities are trying to move 50,000 people across New York City to one tiny island; be patient and stay with your crew. You may want to opt for a ferry transfer, depending on where you are staying.

7 am: You’ll arrive on Staten Island, go through security check-in, find your Carousel and Gate and then pick a spot to sit for a few hours as you begin the waiting game for your start time.

Use this time to keep hydrated, eat, use the bathroom (the lines are long for the toilet), relax, and take photos (some professional photographers will be around so keep an eye out to get a pre-race snap).

9 am-11 am: Go time. Your time will be called over the loudspeaker, and you will head to your carousel/gate and move in ready for your start time.

The American National Anthem will be played and the countdown…3, 2, 1 and you’re off!

You’ll be able to download the New York City Marathon Route Map here in the lead-up to race day.

The NYC Marathon should be on every runner’s bucket list. Image by Dorothee Hubner

What is Like to Run the New York Marathon 

First, you head up and over the Verrazzano Bridge leaving Staten Island behind as you move into Brooklyn. I remember Brooklyn being super exciting. But settle in, it’s a long hike of the straight road coming up.

While the route has signage at each mile. Australians, you get a kilometre sign every 5 kilometres, so it’s a bit of a mind game as to how far you’ve gone.

Pace yourself and don’t feel like you need to sprint – you want to make it to the end after all.

I recall the water stations being quite slippery, so careful where you step. But make sure if anything that you stick to your nutrition and hydration plan! Even if you’re not “thirsty” have a sip to keep you going until the next station (which is at every mile from the 3-mile mark onwards).

Take it all in – the atmosphere is like nothing you’d ever experienced before. People are cheering your name (because it’s on your bib), singing and dancing. The whole of New York has come out to support you.

You’ll run all five boroughs of New York – Staten Island > Brooklyn > Queens > The Bronx > Manhattan. When you hit 5th Avenue, it will hurt, but you’re running the New York Marathon, Channel that excitement and use the adrenaline and push to Central Park.

When you step into Central Park, you know you’re going to make it; you’re going to cross that finish line but don’t wish it away. Look around, smile at the crowds – wave, sing, dance, high-five people. All of that training is about to pay off.

You’ll round the corner with 1km to go. Get ready to look up to the cameras as you run it in (not down at your watch). You’ve just finished the New York Marathon. Give me that medal. Take your selfies, get a lot of photos and enjoy the moment.

For professionals, the 26.2 miles of the marathon can take just over 2 hours to finish. We finished at around 4 pm.

Emma and Dee cross the finish line of the New York City Marathon. Image © Emma Judd

After the Race

If you thought the kilometres were over, you were wrong. When you do a marathon, it feels like it’s almost another marathon to get back to your hotel room.

The streets are closed, so you’re directed out the long way. On the way, you’ll collect a finisher’s bag with goodies, water, and food and you’ll get your cape. As you keep walking, you’ll see big letters of the alphabet lining the streets – a good option to meet your family and friends.

Follow the “blue ghosts” (you all look like ghosts in your blue capes haha) and then make your way back to your hotel. We were super lucky to stay where we did as it was a relatively short walk compared to others. 

Do not check out of your hotel the next day. Plan to sleep in, go and get a late breakfast at an awesome New York breakfast spot.

Wear your medal around NYC with pride. Everyone does, and everyone will be yelling congratulations your way when they see your medal. It’s so cool how much New York locals embrace the marathon and really make the atmosphere what it is.

Would I do the New York Marathon again? In a heartbeat. It’s magic. An experience I will not soon forget.

Read Next | The Best Healthy Brunch Spots in New York City

Emma proudly showed off her NYC Marathon medal. Image © Emma Judd

Emma Judd

The gym is pretty much Emma’s home away from home and she’s obsessed with anything health and fitness.

Emma plans her holidays around gym or some form of exercise, has a new found love for flexible eating and is absolutely, 100% a morning person.

Emma works in marketing and enjoys discovering healthy treats at various cafes on foodie adventures around Brisbane, Australia and beyond.

www.instagram.com/emajudd/

Pat Bailey

Pat relaxes at one of the beautiful pools at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. Image © Ashley Drody

A Weekend Getaway in Arizona

Getting to Phoenix

I flew directly from San Francisco International Airport into the Phoenix Airport, Phoenix is easily accessible from any direction and the airport is manageable and easy to navigate. Search flights to Phoenix. Depending on your itinerary and plans, I recommend renting a car. Some of my favourite places are on long stretches of desert road and the drive to them is part of the magic.

The perfectly palm-fringed Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. Image © Ashley Drody

Where to Stay in Phoenix

Scottsdale, one of the many suburbs of Phoenix, is a beautiful place to stay especially if you book a room at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. The hotel, set to the backdrop of the McDowell Mountains, is an impeccable example of modern Frank Lloyd Write inspired architecture juxtaposed with the desert flora of cacti, wild flowers, green lawns and palm trees. It is indeed a desert oasis.

Earthy tones are carried from the outside in at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. Image © Ashley Drody

My suite, one of 493 rooms, included a luxurious king-size bed, roomy and modern bathroom with rain shower, small sitting area, and a sunny balcony with a view of the property’s lake and palm trees to add privacy and dappled shade. I loved the sunrise light that filtered in and the sound of the Gondolero paddling by at night. It was also the perfect spot to sit and catch my breath each day.

The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale features an incredible ten pools. Image © Ashley Drody

The property boasts ten pools, several of which are for swimming, and it was fun to explore the personality of each. The two main pools sit side-by-side, separated into an adult-only experience with a pool bar and a more family friendly option with wading pools and even a water slide. There is a miniature golf area, a climbing wall and plenty of pool-side beach in the family pool area with plenty to do for each person in the family. From the adult pool you have a beautiful view of the lake that surrounds the property, and just beyond it is a 27-hole championship golf course.

Al fresco dining is the order of the day at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. Image © Ashley Drody

I loved the open-air courtyard joining the pools to the property, with tall palms and plenty of lounging and al fresco dining options. Foodies will not be disappointed with a stay or visit to this property, there are three restaurant experiences available. SWB has a menu full of authentic Southwest flavours, NOH serves Japanese dishes and Alto Ristorante is an Italian restaurant. The Center Stage Bar serves handcrafted cocktails and just beyond it you can catch local musicians almost nightly on stage adding to the cozy ambience of the grand space.

Related: 48 Hours in LA: Where to Stay, Eat and Explore

Spa Avania features a beautiful open fireplace to encourage guests to unwind. Image © Ashley Drody

Spa Avania is the spa located on property and it is a sanctuary of its own. I enjoyed a traditional massage and spent the afternoon lounging in the private pool areas complete with hot tub and cold dipping pool as well as a cozy fireplace and sauna. This oasis is tucked away from the main property and feels remote and intimate, it was the perfect spot to catch my breath.

A Gondolero takes Pat on a trip around the lake at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. Image © Ashley Drody

A total treat during my stay was the gondola ride. Professional gondola rowers and singers take guests around the lake a few times each day. I loved my ride and I also loved hearing the singers row past my balcony each night. I also wandered into the Native American Museum located just off the lobby, this museum is a collaboration and labor of love between the Hyatt Regency staff and local tribe members – the spirit of these people can be found here and it was a nice surprise to find their culture and history celebrated and honoured in this way.

Check Prices for the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale

Visit Sloan Park, home of the Chicago Cubs spring training camp while in Mesa. Image © Ashley Drody

Things to do in Phoenix and Mesa

My Arizona itinerary for Mesa and Phoenix revolved around the Five C’s of Arizona: copper, cotton, citrus, cattle, and climate, and it included a few unique Arizona experiences.

Sloan Park

A trip to Mesa during spring time must include a visit to Sloan Park, home of the Chicago Cubs spring training camp. I was lucky to catch the Cubs play the Oakland A’s when I visited. This stadium, which opened in 2014, is the largest and newest Major League Baseball training stadium.  Fans flock here to watch the Cubs, on average the park hosts more than 15,000 fans per game.  And, because it’s the home of the Cubs, many iconic features have been added including Chicago Dogs and Deep-Dish Pizza. I was a happy Midwesterner in my element, and the Cubs won the game.

Related: 48 Hours in Chicago: A Local’s Guide on What to See and Do

Pat enjoying the spoils of a Cubs game at Sloan Park, Mesa. Image © Ashley Drody

Schnepf Farms

Schnepf Farms is a must-see if desert glamping and good old-fashion peach picking is on your list. This fourth-generation family owned homestead spans 5,000 acres and is dedicated to preserving the legacy of family farming in the area; it is the largest organic peach grower in Arizona celebrating over 50 years. 

Pat takes a tour of one of the lovingly homes Airstream trailers at Schnepf Farms. Image © Ashley Drody

The original farm has now expanded to include a complete complex for hosting yearly festivals of all kinds (including the most popular Peach Festival), a family adventure park and the newest addition of glamping in vintage Airstream trailers. Carrie Schnepf has lovingly devoted her time to finding and restoring the four Airstreams, two Spartans and two Silver Streaks, which now make up a unique overnight guest experience on the property called “The Cozy Peach.” 

Each trailer is a suite on wheels with a theme of its own and both vintage and modern amenities that make you smile and feel right at home. You can book your very own Airstream for one night or several and find yourself under the stars in the desert with full service attention which is the best of both worlds.

Related: How to Spend a Weekend in Park City Utah

Desert reflections bounce of the beautifully shiny Airstreams at Schnepf Farms. Image © Ashley Drody

Agritopia

Unique to the Mesa area is Agritopia, a project where rural and urban influences mix. This “urban farm” complex celebrates the rural setting of the desert and all of its abundance while creatively expanding opportunities to share the abundance and experience with a community. The Agritopia community is a tight one, not only does the community include housing and co-op farming, but it also provides opportunities for local business-owners, crafts people, and other partners to share in the ethos of building community and blending organic farming with intentional urban experiences.  I loved seeing the new, “urban” projects living in harmony with the 100-year-old trees and how the original family homestead ranch-style, slump block home has been repurposed into a modern 60’s era mid-century diner called Joe’s Farm Grill. This project has been named the leading “agri-hood” in the country by New York Times and the diner has been featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.

Agritopia nurtures community through housing and co-op farming. Image © Ashley Drody

Within the Agritopia complex you can find a glass of delicious local wine at Garage East Farm Winery, where Brian Ruffentine will leave you with a lasting impression of his passion for desert wine; he is the owner of this micro-winery showcasing the local wine of wine makers Todd and Kelly Bostock. Garage East Farm Winery is one of 12 resident craft brands that inhabit Barnone, Arizona’s newest Craftsman Community located inside a rustic Quonset hut built with metal from WWII planes that served the nearby Air Force base.  This innovative artesian collective is located on the urban agriculture campus and is a must-visit for supporting a variety of local, small brands.

Arizona Goat Yoga to brings together two passions – yoga and animals. Image © Ashley Drody

Downward Goat. Pat takes to the mat at Arizona Goat Yoga. Image © Ashley Drody

Arizona Goat Yoga

Goat Yoga wasn’t something I ever thought I would have on my list to try, but it was a whimsical experience that proved to be a great reminder to loosen up while connecting with animals. The yoga of this experience is about letting go, and about ahimsa. Sarah Williams, a 20-year old yoga instructor created Arizona Goat Yoga on a whim combining two things she loves: yoga and goats, and it is now a popular activity for both locals and visitors. The experience includes a guided group yoga class outdoors while the goats are free to interact with students if and as they wish, it is impossible to be unhappy or too rigid in your practice while you are sharing it with these happy, gentle creatures. 

Related: Costa Dulce Nicaragua: A Nature and Yoga Retreat on the Pacific Coast

Connecting to nature, animals and new friends at Arizona Goat Yoga. Image © Ashley Drody

Get up early and hit the hiking trails in the Sonora Desert. Image © Ashley Drody

Hiking in the Sonora Desert

Hiking in the Sonora Desert is a popular activity in Arizona with many, many options for all levels of hikers. I hiked the Usery Mountain Wind Cave Trail one morning during this visit which provides breathtaking views from an elevation of 2,840 feet. The trail is an easy one with a short climb to the top of the tunnel in just a few hours. This park spans 3,648 acres and it is located at the western end of the Goldfield Mountains adjacent to the Tonto National Forest. The key to this hike, and many others, is an early start to avoid the heat, and the reward is an incredible view in all directions of the desert flora and beautiful natural skyline of the valley below.

A moment of reflection in the beautiful Sonora Desert. Image © Ashley Drody

Hiking in the Tonto National Forest is a must in Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

The stunning Sonora Desert in Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

Horseback Riding in the Desert

Maybe the sixth “C” in Arizona should belong to the cowboys, because many of them call this state home and nothing beats meeting a real one for an authentic Arizona experience. Fort McDowell Adventures provides just that. Horseback riding in the desert, guided by a local cowboy, is a must-do when you visit the area – I felt like I was riding in a postcard the experience was so beautiful. If you’d rather have a more modern experience, the ranch also provides Segway tours. I opted for the old-fashion adventure which included riding Ajax, a sweet old horse and crossing a belly high river along with listening to tales from our guide.

The picture perfect setting for horseback riding in Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

A peaceful horse ride in the Arizona desert. Image © Ashley Drody

Where to Eat in Arizona

Food in the Southwest is full of flavour, both in taste and in variety. With a focus on local flavours, organic ingredients and farm-to-table concepts, I made my way through this trip discovering the many, many options for delicious dining.

Dining in the desert with Cloth and Flame. Image © Ashley Drody

Dine under the stars at Cloth and Flame

There’s something magical about a secret location, under the stars, in the desert, for cocktails and dinner. Find yourself at a Cloth and Flame immersive dining experience next time you visit the Phoenix area. Events range from intimate events for small groups, to corporate events for hundreds. Our intimate table was set when we arrived and accompanied by a small bar serving handcrafted cocktails with fresh herb garnish. Arriving at the location and walking into the open-air dining experience felt like a fairy tale. Fresh courses of organic and locally sourced ingredients were served by an attentive staff as we watch the sunset sky turn sorbet colours and the nearly full moon and stars take its place. Off in the distance we could see hot air balloons and the surrounding mountain backdrop. The dinner ended with dessert under twinkle lights strung above and around our table; the entire experience was picture perfect and delicious from start to finish.

A friendly and delicious welcome at the Cloth and Flame desert dinner, Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

Evening glow over our al fresco dining setting in Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

Mesa’s Fresh Foodie Trail

Both Schnepf Farms and Agritopia are on Mesa’s Fresh Foodie Trail in addition to a dozen other delightful stops if you are interested in a food-driven road trip adventure that will wind you through Mesa and beyond giving you great stops for education and sampling along the way.

Fire & Brimstone located in the Agritopia Barnone building is a delicious stop for dinner with wood-fire selections utilising the fresh, organic ingredients grown on the property. I stopped at B&B Citrus Farms to taste oranges and see how they are sorted and packaged and while I was there I feasted on vegetarian BBQ options at Jalapeno Buck’s the neighbouring feasting spot.

Related: A Guide to the Best NYC Healthy Restaurants

Stopping in at B&B Citrus Farms, Mesa. Image © Ashley Drody

Home made delights at Queen Creek Olive Mill. Image © Ashley Drody

Queen Creek Olive Mill

Also on the Fresh Foodie Trail is Queen Creek Olive Mill, Arizona’s only working olive farm and mill.  When I think of Arizona I do not think of olives, this was such a nice surprise to find and everything I experienced at Queen Creek Olive Mill was both beautiful and delicious. This family owned and operated 100-acre farm with over 7,000 olive trees is a true farm to table experience and a true family passion. 

Gorgeous creations from the Olive Spa, Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

I was given a private tour of the soap making facility by owner Brenda, her passion for creating beauty products with the oil is now part of the experience at the Olive Spa. I loved the olive oil lip balm so much that I brought one home for each of my sisters – the lavender lip balm is incredible.  Visitors can taste a mind-blowing selection of innovative extra virgin olive oils, in addition to balsamic vinegars, stuffed olives, and tapenades. 

The café, coffee shop, bakery and ice cream counter are filled with goodness, it was so hard to choose. We enjoyed a spread of sandwiches including their incredibly delicious bruschetta, tasty fresh salads, and yummy cupcakes (definitely try the chocolate olive oil and cupcake made with it). If weather permits definitely sit outside in the open air dining area, the breeze is perfect and you are surrounded by olive trees, it feels almost like Tuscany.

Wandering the olive groves at Queen Creek Olive Mill. Image © Ashley Drody

T.C. Eggington’s Brunchery

If breakfast is serious business for you then a trip to T.C. Eggington’s Brunchery is in order where they scramble, fry, poach or gently fold into delicious omelettes over 8,000 eggs every week. The sheer magnitude of production I witnessed during my brunch here was dizzying, the place was a buzz and is a popular destination for both visitors and locals. Try their famous French Toast made with fresh-baked cinnamon bread dipped in custard-rich batter – it is to die for.

Stopping in for a tipple at Postino Wine Bar. Image © Ashley Drody

Liberty Market

Two great stops in sweet Gilbert, Arizona just outside of Phoenix are Postino East Wine Bar and Liberty Market. With thirty-six unique, approachable wines and a whole menu of bruschetta to pair with them this is the perfect first course or feast on bruschetta place. 

Liberty Market is an urban bistro nearby, housed in a 1930’s building that was once a grocery store. This bistro is Zagat rated and offers a diverse menu of salads, burgers, pasta and the most incredible house-made desserts; is a comfort food haven. Definitely try the Salt River Bar and the Chocolate Death Ray Cake, you’re welcome.

The Farm at South Mountain is a beautiful country oasis providing the quintessential farm to table experience. Image © Ashley Drody

The Farm at South Mountain

The Farm at South Mountain is a beautiful country oasis providing the quintessential farm to table experience and a break from city life in the desert. I fell in-love with the canopies of pecan trees and the wandering paths darting in and out of small gardens and shady resting spots. There are three restaurants on the property, all of which utilise the abundant gardens daily to create truly farm fresh to table menus. The property is a beautiful backdrop for weddings and picnics, I enjoyed a late-afternoon lunch of veggie sandwiches, salads and homemade cookies at a picnic table under a shade umbrella on one of the lawn areas, it was perfection.

The delicious fresh spread at The Farm at South Mountain. Image © Ashley Drody

True Food Kitchen

I had one of the best vegetarian burgers of my life at True Food Kitchen in Scottsdale during this trip. This local chain has an open kitchen concept and a menu to delight any vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free eater. The burger is made with seventy ingredients, yes seventy, and it is impeccable. The “scratch bar” is brimming with a selection of wines, local beers and seasonal cocktails made using fresh pressed fruit and vegetable juices and organic spirits – making even the cocktails taste fresh and healthy.

The world’s most delicious veggie burger at True Food Kitchen. Image © Ashley Drody

Freshly poured cocktails at True Food Kitchen. Image © Ashley Drody

This weekend getaway in Arizona was filled with fresh goodness and local surprises as well as quintessential desert favourites that have been happening for years. With so many things to do in Mesa and Phoenix, a visit to the area is a must if you are craving a desert escape and you want to experience the surprising and stunning Southwest.

The Fit Traveller was a guest of Visit Mesa and Visit Phoenix for this trip. As always, our opinions, words and images are authentically our own.

Pat Russo

Pat Russo is a Mystic, Muse, and Spiritual Teacher guiding women into their hearts with a journey of softening. She is a published poet, a lover of hearts, and a forever student.

Feeling the impossibility of choosing between her two favorite cities, she considers San Francisco and Paris home.

www.patricia-russo.com/

Pat Bailey

Pat enjoys a poolside snack at The Gates Hotel South Beach. Image © Pat Bailey

A Weekend Getaway in Florida

Getting to Miami

Fly right into the Miami International Airport from any direction, depending on where you are staying and what your itinerary is, you’ll want to look into renting a car. Search flights to Miami.

The Gates Hotel South Beach if a clean, modern and beautiful hotel in the heart of South Beach, Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

The Gates Hotel

If you are wondering where to stay in South Beach, you will find that there is no shortage of high-end, boutique and even local hotels. My stay at The Gates Hotel South Beach was perfect for a lot of reasons, but mostly because it is located in the heart of South Beach on Collins Avenue with great access to the beach and many hot spots in South Beach, as well as quick access to downtown Miami. The hotel is also located about nine miles North of the airport.

The lobby at The Gates Hotel South Beach – decorated in beautiful soft pastels and plush furnishings. Image © Pat Bailey

The Gates Hotel South Beach, a Double Tree by Hilton property, is a quintessential Miami hotel.  You are greeted by the trademark smell of freshly baked cookies and welcomed into the modern hotel by way of a beautifully expansive lobby, lounge bar, guest gathering spot and outdoor pool, dining and lounge area. The décor is fresh and modern with pops of pastel colours, clean lines, lots of texture and cheeky local art that feels whimsical and very Miami.

The property has 235 guest rooms, including 17 suites. My room was ample, full of natural light, and I found the king-size bed to be a welcome reprieve at the end of each long day.

The Gates Hotel South Beach happily accommodates corporate guests as well as guests on holiday, there is plenty of meeting space both inside and outside. I particularly loved the rooftop decks at various levels outside.

Related: The Best Places to Visit on Mexico’s East Coast

Our modern, comfortable, light-filled room at The Gates Hotel South Beach. Image © Pat Bailey

Our cosy and comfortable room at The Gates Hotel in South Beach. Image © Pat Bailey

The bright, modern and chic interiors at The Gates Hotel Agaveros Cantina. Image © Pat Bailey

My favourite part about this stay and property was the vintage feel I got from the décor and the space. The pool area spans the entire outdoor courtyard and is flanked on all sides with cozy lounge areas decked in Miami colours. The outdoor bar is the perfect place to grab a drink any time, meals are served from Agaveros Cantina, the restaurant on property, both indoors and outside under stringed lights and poolside. I enjoyed breakfast by the pool one morning and had the pool all to myself.

The Gates Hotel South Beach is warm and welcoming. Image © Pat Bailey

The Lobby Bar at The Gates Hotel South Beach Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

The interiors at The Gates Hotel South Beach feature warm tones with modern strong accent colours. Image © Pat Bailey

Time out for some delicious cocktails at Pool Bar, The Gates Hotel South Beach. Image © Pat Bailey

Wynwood Walking Tour

I wouldn’t even dream of visiting Miami without a trip to the Wynwood Walls art walk. Be sure to carve out a whole day to explore this incredibly inspiring neighbourhood. In visits past, I have wandered the streets of Wynwood solo which has its advantages. This trip, I opted for a guided tour of Wynwood to learn more about the artists, the food, and the culture of the neighbourhood made famous by Art Basel.

Pat taking in some culture at the Wynwood Walls Art Walk. Image © Pat Bailey

The Wynwood Walls Art Walk is a must when visiting Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

I explored Wynwood with an incredibly charming and knowledgeable guide named Mirka from Miami Culinary Tours. We made our way through the painted streets stopping to gaze at the murals. We also experienced the variety of culinary offerings at the Wynwood restaurants including Wynwood Kitchen & Bar, where we tasted really incredible empanadas, GKB, where the ceviche and quinoa salad are amazing. 

Zak the Baker is a must-stop on a Wynwood Walls walking tour. Image © Pat Bailey

Zak the Baker was next up. It’s a bakery you must put on your list, serving heavenly Bourekas (I challenge you to have just one), Jimmy’s Kitchen, where I tried the house specialty Monfongo, and the grand finale, Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop & Cakes, where I feasted on the perfect key lime pie. This tour was a highlight of my trip and I highly recommend it.

Head to Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop and Cafe for some key lime pie. Image © Pat Bailey

Healthy Food in Miami

Joe and the Juice | Multiple Locations

I love how easy it is to be vegetarian in Miami and South Beach, and to eat healthy in general. One of my favourite local chains, Joe and the Juice is a short drive from The Gates South Beach and they serve beautiful sandwiches on a thin, cracker bread that is gluten-free and packed with healthy and organic goodness.

Get your day off to a healthy start by grabbing a fresh juice or smoothie from Joe and the Juice. Image © Pat Bailey

Raw Juice | 959 West Ave, Suite 13, Miami Beach

Before my Youfit workout I stopped at Raw Juice, a beautiful all natural, vegan and vegetarian café with the most beautiful dragon fruit “Papaya Bowl” and delicious fresh coconut water with hearty coconut meat floating in it – these are made fresh daily and I had one at the café and took another one to the gym for after my workout.

Organic Bites | 7010 Biscayne Blvd, Miami Beach

A stop at Organic Bites for breakfast, lunch or dinner is a great idea. This was my post workout brunch choice; I enjoyed a wheatgrass shot, fresh juices, and a delicious salad with an organic vegetable soup.

DIRT Miami | 232 5th St, Miami Beach

DIRT Miami is another favourite of mine, the farm-to-counter concept is casual and the eating is clean and organic. Definitely try the Dirty Vegan Bowl and the Avo-Kale Tostada, these are my favourite and so delicious.

A delicious healthy breakfast at Raw Juice, Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

Plnthouse | 1609, 2341 Collins Ave, Miami Beach

My last meal of this trip included one of the most delicious veggie burgers I’ve had in a long time, at Plnthouse located in 1 Hotel South Beach. This completely vegan restaurant has a menu that I have a hard time choosing from, the décor is Instagram-able and the outside terrace has a spectacular view of the beach and pool.

Related: 48 Hours in Chicago: A Local’s Guide on What to See and Do

Interiors inspiration aplenty awaits at Plnthouse located in 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

Staying Fit in Miami

Staying fit in Miami is easy, and studies show that Florida was one of two states last year that improved the most in the direction of health and fitness.

Youfit Health Clubs

Youfit Health Clubs, founded in Miami, is making fitness accessible to everyone. The community they have nurtured since opening the first gym has become a great testament to what can happen when you make your mission about people.

Learning some simple stretches at Youfit Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

It is impossible to be unhappy and unmotivated when you walk into a Youfit Health Club; by design in large part, the staff smiles, the space glows in its trademark lime green and purple, and every single person working out is happy to be there. This culture is intentional, and created from the bottom up. J.J. Creegan, who was once an employee picking up weights off of the gym floor is now the Chief Operating Officer and biggest champion for the now 113 gyms across 15 states, its members and his “home away from home,” and tribe. He literally has spent his lifetime putting his heart into this company, and you can feel this when you walk into each one of the Youfit locations.

James putting Pat through her paces at Youfit Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

A basic membership starts at just $USD10 per month and includes full access to the gym, making it very accessible. YouGX Group Exercise Classes include Zumba, Pilates, Yoga, Barre, Cardio Kickbox, Circuit Training, Cycle, and more. Members also have access to a personal YouCoach which includes a team of personal trainers that meet with members to assess their fitness level, goals and intentions and concerns and then they create a special fitness plan for the member utilising the gym and services available.

Sunrise yoga with Youfit during our stay in South Beach Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

I spent one morning with James, my YouCoach for the day, and I was so impressed with his patience and his knowledge about the body, various fitness modalities and nutrition. These were all important topics that we discussed during my private session with him. Because I identified heart health and cardio as one of my goals, he walked me through a handful of exercises while he watched me perform each one and made careful notes about alignment, my strengths and weaknesses and how each one made me feel. After our 30-minute session we discussed the plan and James showed me around the gym and shared his expertise for implementing the plan on a daily basis. This personal touch was a meaningful one. I’ve been guilty of joining gyms in the past and feeling overwhelmed with the options or unaware of what I should be doing and the memberships don’t last. At Youfit the goal is to keep members informed and inspired to create a personal fitness journey and stick with it, and the gyms and memberships come with personal cheerleaders to help you do this.

We were also treated to a sunrise yoga class during our stay in South Beach which was a beautiful and refreshing way to start the day.

Pat enjoying some yoga on the beach during her healthy escape to South Beach Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

This escape to South Beach Miami was a welcome getaway, a reminder that travelling can include healthy choices and fitness gains and even eating healthy can be easy and delicious when you are away from the comforts of home, especially in South Beach Miami.

 The Fit Traveller was a guest of Youfit Health Clubs for this trip to Miami. As always, our opinions, words and images are authentically our own.

Pat Russo

Pat Russo is a Mystic, Muse, and Spiritual Teacher guiding women into their hearts with a journey of softening. She is a published poet, a lover of hearts, and a forever student.

Feeling the impossibility of choosing between her two favorite cities, she considers San Francisco and Paris home.

www.patricia-russo.com/

Sophie Palmer

Increased circulation and better digestion are just two of the many health benefits of yoga inversions. Image © Sophie Palmer

Yoga Inversions for Beginners

What Are Yoga Inversions?

So what exactly is a yoga inversion?

Typically, an inversion is any posture where the head is below the heart.

Do handstands, forearm stands, and other exotic variations may spring to mind?

Well, there are a number of accessible and gentler inverted poses (including downward dog, half-bridge, and legs up the wall) for friends newer to yoga, or those wanting a more restorative practice.

Who can do Yoga Inversions?

The benefits of yoga inversions are huge when including inversions in our yoga practice.

But, it’s essential we learn the correct setup and alignment of each posture to ensure we receive the maximum benefits and most importantly prevent injury, especially on the back and neck.

If you have a history of high blood pressure, or heart problems or have had a neck or spine injury, practicing inversions with caution and the assistance of a yoga teacher is recommended.

There is also a lot of debate about women practicing inversions during their moon days.

My general recommendation is to avoid practicing more dynamic inverted postures during the first few days of a woman’s menstrual cycle, as turning the body upside down goes against the body’s natural rhythm during this time.

In saying this, no one knows your body as you do, so most importantly listen to your body as you move through the cycle mindfully and tailor your practice to how you feel, and to how you feel best.

Related: Bali Yoga Studios: 5 of the Best Yoga Studios in Bali

Like every part of yoga practice, take a mindful and safe approach to inversions. Image © Sophie Palmer

The Benefits of Yoga Inversions

Here are 10 reasons why turning upside down is not only fun but also very good for the health and vitality of your body and mind.

Improves circulation and brain activity – flushing refreshed blood and nutrients around the whole body, especially the brain.

Gives the heart a break – as the heart is constantly working to pump blood upward towards the brain, inversions assist in the flow of blood to the brain, with little work from the heart.

Improves immunity – inversions help to stimulate lymphatic cleansing and drainage which assists in clearing toxins from the body.

Stimulates the nervous system – increasing mental alertness and clarity.

Natural antidepressant – flushing the adrenal glands and stimulating the release of endorphins.

Glowing skin – by reversing the flow and aging force of gravity, new oxygen stimulates the capillaries in the skin and face.

Increases the digestive fire – aiding the digestive and elimination process.

Energizes the body – increasing core strength and improving posture.

Calms the mind – relieving stress, and assisting with better sleep patterns.

Builds confidence – and most importantly is fun!

How to Do Yoga Inversions Safely

Practice safely and mindfully – Start gradually with variations that allow you to build up strength and flexibility.

Try using a wall for support to begin before freestanding.

Be aware of your body in alignment – If you feel like your alignment is not quite right, come out of your inversion first, make the adjustments, and then come back into the pose. Avoid making adjustments while inverted.

Work through this list of yoga inversions one at a time, taking care to rest between each new pose, without rushing your body.

Related: Hariharalaya Yoga Retreat: Waking Up in Cambodia

Sophie shows how the Downward Dog (three-legged dog) is practiced. Image © Sophie Palmer

Yoga Inversions for Beginners: Downward Dog (Ardho Mukha Svanasana)

Begin in Child’s Pose (sitting back on your feet, arms outstretched, head to the floor), reaching both hands forward, tucking the toes under, pressing evenly into the hands and feet – lifting your hips up towards the sky.

Spread the fingers, press the hips back, and reach the chest towards the thighs, maintaining a long spine.

Check-in with the hands and feet – make sure they’re hip-width apart, relax the neck, looking back towards the thighs.

Try lifting one leg high to the sky, and repeat the other side.

To come out, lower the knees down and press back into Childs Pose.

Related: Yandara Yoga Institute Baja

Sophie Palmer demonstrates Wheel Pose (eka pada forearm variation). Image © Sophie Palmer

Yoga Inversions for Beginners: Wheel (Urdhva Dhanurasana)

To begin: Lie on your back with your knees bent and heels close to your body.

Bring your hands to the floor beside your ears with your fingertips just below your shoulders and pointing towards your feet.

Engage your legs and slowly raise your hips off the floor, peeling your spine off the mat.

Press your hands into the floor rot straighten your arms and raise your body up.

Relax your neck, and press firmly through both legs – ensuring your knees remain hip-width apart.

To come out, tuck the chin in and lower the top of your head gently to the mat, rolling your spine down slowly.

Related: Weekend Wellness at Desa Seni Village Resort Bali

Supported Headstand. Image © Sophie Palmer

Yoga Inversions for Beginners: Supported Headstand (Salamba Sirsasana)

Begin on your hands and knees in the Table Top position, bring your forearms to the mat so that your fingers wrap around the elbow of the opposite arm.

Interlace your fingers tucking your bottom little finger inside the cup formed by your hands, creating a stable, sturdy platform.

Tuck your toes under, lean forward, and press strongly through the arms and shoulders as your shoulders press away from the ears and slide down the back.

As your shoulders come away from the ears the head slightly lifts off of the ground to ensure the weight isn’t on the head.

Engage the stomach muscles and straighten your legs to lift the hips high and walk the feet forward until your torso is nearly perpendicular to the floor

Start by bending one knee in, squeezing it into your chest.

Bring your hips forward and tilt just enough to lift the second foot off the ground.

Try to balance with one knee into the chest, and the other foot off the ground. Eventually, you’ll squeeze both knees in and lift with the legs squeezing together.

It’s the strength of the upper body along with squeezing the legs, pointing the toes, and keeping the body tight and firm that creates control, which in turn creates balance.

To come out, engage the core and slowly lower your toes down to the mat and rest in Childs Pose.

Related: Omega Movement Yoga Retreat Andalucia Spain

The supported shoulder stand. Image © Sophie Palmer

Yoga Inversions for Beginners: Supported Shoulder Stand (Salamba Sarvangasana)

Lie down on your back with arms alongside your body, and bring your knees into your chest nice and slowly, taking care not to swing the legs quickly up.

With legs either bent or straight, lift your hips and reach your feet toward the floor behind your head.

Interlace your fingers with arms straight on the ground, and squeeze your shoulder blades and elbows close together.

Bend your elbows and support your middle back with your palms, fingers facing up.

Either one at a time or together, lift your legs up vertically, gently pressing your knees and ankles together.

To come out, use the core to extend the legs, slowly lowering down, and rolling down the spine with the legs close to the torso.

In Shoulder Stand ensure the neck is always looking ahead, and never turn your head whilst in the pose.

Related: The 5 Best Yoga Studios in London

Knee Ear Pose is practiced following a Shoulder Stand. Image © Sophie Palmer

Yoga Inversions for Beginners: Knee to Ear Pose (Karnapidasana)

The knee-to-ear pose is practiced following Shoulder Stand.

With your legs straight up to the sky, keep your torso vertical and tip from the hips lowering the tips of your toes to the floor.

Either keep your toes curled on the floor or straighten them so the tops of your toes are in contact with the ground.

Lift your hip bones up high to the sky and straighten your legs rolling the inner thighs towards each other.

Release your hands from your upper back and extend them in the opposite direction as your legs.

Roll your shoulders under even more and place your palms flat on the ground or clasp your hands together.

Press your arms firmly into the ground to help you lengthen your tail even further upwards to the sky.

Let your knees fall on either side of your head so that your knees touch the ground in front of your shoulders.

To come out, use the core to extend the legs, slowly lowering down, and rolling the spine down with the legs close to the torso.

Related: Experience Seven Senses Retreat at Habitas Tulum

A Perfect Fish Pose by Sophie Palmer. Image © Sophie Palmer

Yoga Inversions for Beginners: Fish Pose (Matsyasana)

Begin by lying on your back, work the hands next to your body with the palms facing down.

Press your elbows into the floor to lift your head up, moving the elbows closer together.

Expand the chest and arch your back to lower the crown of your head towards the mat.

Continue pressing the elbows into the mat, lifting your sternum up towards the ceiling.

To come out, important to lift your head to look at your feet first, then roll the body down slowly.

I wish you luck with these yoga inversions for beginners. Take your time- there’s no rush to learn these. Remember to breathe.

Consult your own physician before undertaking these exercises. The directions and medical information in this article are provided as an information resource only and are not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. 

Sophie Palmer

Sophie Palmer has been practicing yoga for over 9 years and teaches a dynamic style of Hatha and Vinyasa yoga.
Like many, Sophie first turned to yoga for its physical benefits, but with time found the practice of yoga (both on and off the mat) was taking her on a deeper journey; allowing her to feel more open and connected to her heart, mind and surroundings.
Sophie has studied in Sydney, in Bali under Louisa Sear and Lucy Roberts and has completed intensive workshops with Clive Sheridan. She recently returned from India on retreat, where she studied Vedic Meditation and Ayurveda.
When she’s not practicing or teaching yoga, you can find her volunteering with A Sound Life charity, at the beach, exploring nature or in the kitchen experimenting with raw food creations.

www.sophiepalmeryoga.com/

Brittany Lillegard

Step into a world of instant relaxation at Float Sixty Chicago. Image © Float Sixty

Sensory Deprivation at Float Sixty, Chicago

After a friend had touted her positive experiences floating, I was excited to give it a try, so I visited a sensory deprivation float centre in Chicago called Float Sixty in the River North neighbourhood. The float centre had multiple tank options available in which participants could choose rooms that would allow them to have gentle light or music piped in while they were floating in small pools to the full sensory deprivation experience of floating in a small tank in complete darkness with no sound.

I opted for the full sensory deprivation experience and chose to float in the Samadhi Tank. Due to a product launch and prepping for upcoming travel, I arrived to my appointment sleep deprived and lacking energy (its advised to not consume caffeine 4 to 5 hours before your float, which was a huge challenge for this coffee addict) and unconvinced that anything could help me relax in that moment. While I do have a regular meditation practice, I was also incredibly nervous about whether or not I could handle having all of my senses deprived for such an extended period of time.

My nerves were calmed immediately though when I was greeted by my float guide, Emerson, whose energy was a wonderful mix of friendly, gentle, and zen. As someone who tries to float on a weekly basis, it left me curious how much of his relaxed energy was due to his regular time spent in the tank, and his calm demeanor and positive energy quickly quieted my nerves. After a tour of the facility including the two relaxation and meditation rooms I could use before or after my float, as well as a quick view of the other room and tank options available, I was led to my private space before being left with clear instructions on the process and tips for getting the most out of my first time including a reminder to relax, breathe, and just let go.

Related: 48 Hours in Chicago: A Local’s Guide on What to See and Do

I opted to float in the Samadhi tank for my first experience, which is the smallest, darkest, and quietest option available at Float Sixty Chicago. After a short period of adjustment, I quickly slipped into an ethereal experience in this tank. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Relax, Breathe, and Just Let Go

There was a private shower in my room where I cleansed and put in ear plugs before getting into the tank. To be honest, I had a really challenging time getting comfortable at first. While I knew that there was no way I could sink, I found myself resisting the float and carrying tension throughout my neck and glutes. After several minutes of deep breathing and changing positions (hands tucked behind my head became the winner!), I was finally able to let myself fully succumb to the water and relax, and it was bliss.

I have a regular meditation practice, but usually only meditate for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, so one of my main concerns was being able to handle a full sixty minute session. Fortunately, you always have the option of exiting the tank early which helped to ease those fears; however, when the tank gently started to churn water to signal that my session was over (and to turn over the water to keep the experience hygienic for the next guest), I was in such a meditative and blissful state that it felt like I had only been in my space for a short period of time. I’m still not quite sure where my body and mind went in those sixty minutes, but I came back into my space knowing that wherever they went, I wanted to visit again.

Getting out of the tank was an experience itself as I was slightly disoriented and after floating and feeling weightless for an hour, I felt as if I had a serious case of sea legs. After a warm shower to cleanse the salt off of my skin, I retreated to the meditation room to seek additional quietness, find myself in space again, and reflect on the experience.

Related: A Local’s Guide to Unique Places to Eat in Chicago

Post float reflections by participants displayed in one of Float Sixty’s meditation rooms. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Meditation and Reflection

In this space, Float Sixty provided a book to write about your experience or small sheets of paper to leave your thoughts in picture form. After browsing the hundreds of doodles and reading the words of other floaters before me, it became very clear that this had become a place of retreat for so many others who also find themselves consistently over-stimulated and victims of chronic stress in a non-stop world. On my walk back home, I too found myself carefree and blissful, oblivious of the fact that my sleep was lacking and I had felt significant stress just hours before. Its been three days since the experience and my sleep quality has been the best in years, my productivity has sky-rocketed, and my creative output has been bursting at the seams.

Related: 10 Simple Tips For Starting a Meditation Practice

Float Sixty Chicago offers a number of sensory deprivation tank options to suit your comfort level. Image © Float Sixty

Tips For Your First Sensory Deprivation Experience

If you are considering your first float session, you can make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable by following a few rules before your session.

• Skip shaving for a day prior as the highly salinated tanks can cause irritation on open skin.
• To help yourself relax, avoiding caffeine, consuming lighter food options during the day and fasting for a few hours before can help ensure that you are able to fully enjoy the experience.
• It took me a bit of time to find my groove in the tank, but trying different positions finally helped me settle into one that worked best for me, so don’t be afraid to experiment or get frustrated if it doesn’t feel right immediately.
• If you’re concerned about taking on the full deprivation experience initially, consider one of the larger tanks, or small rooms with pools where you can choose to have a gentle light on or music sent into your space.
• Most importantly, go into the experience with an open mind and give yourself permission to relax, let go, and sink into your bliss.

Brittany Lillegard

Brittany is a traveling strength coach and yoga instructor from Chicago. She fuses her travel stories with her coaching background to help inspire and empower women to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, and to take charge of creating their own adventures.

She thrives off of coffee and wine, prefers to spend her days barefoot, and when she isn’t coaching or working on her handstand skills, she can be found plotting her next adventure.

Rhys Sain

Hikers shrink as they scatter on Pulpit Rock, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

Planning Your Norway Hiking Trip

To maximise the amount of time we had on the ground, we decided to fly directly into Stavanger, and leave Oslo, the capital, to the end. In eleven days, we managed to get as far north as Ålesund, cover five of the best hikes in Norway including Pulpit Rock, Kjeragbolten, Flørli Stairs, Trolltunga, and Rampestreken, before joining a Norway in a Nutshell tour from Bergen to Oslo.

Hiking in Norway is not for the faint of heart, so make sure you prepare by staying active and healthy before your trip. Also, ensure you have the right hiking gear as conditions can be very changeable on the mountains.

While there are plenty of places to buy hiking clothing for women and men once you get to Norway, it can be expensive to shop there. So, it’s much more cost-effective to be prepared and shop for what you need before you arrive.

Rhys finds a quiet vantage point above Pulpit Rock, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

The Best Hikes in Norway

Pulpit Rock

Distance: 6km return | Elevation: 604m | Difficulty: Medium | Duration: 4 hrs | Season: May to October | Parking: About 200 Norwegian Crowns or $AUD25

The hike up Preikestolen or Pulpit Rock is one of the most famous in Norway and it was the perfect introduction to our adventure in Norway. It’s about 6 kilometres long and takes a good four hours to do the return route. It’s considered a fairly easy hike, at least by Norwegian standards, and comprises wooden walkways, dirt paths and stone steps. There were a lot of people doing the walk the day we went up and because the path is so well-marked, there was no fear of getting lost.

The beautiful woodlands on the way up to Pulpit Rock, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

Having started the morning in Stavanger, it was about midday before we finally arrived. During the hike up we dodged pups and people who were slower than us, and lagging behind fit locals as they powered up the mountain. The scenery was a mix of mildly dense vegetation, rocky outcrops and dozens of icy rock pools. We had a cool, grey day which made the mildly challenging climb pleasant and then as if our arrival at the top had been announced to the gods, the sky opened up. It became bright and sunny just in time.

Enjoying the view above Pulpit Rock Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

We were so excited for our first glimpse of the rock. It was even better than we had expected. Towering some 600 metres above Lysefjord, the huge plateau is the perfect place for fantastic views. It also provides for all sorts of silly photos.

The breathtaking panorama was the perfect reward after the Pulpit Rock hike. Image © Rhys Sain

We spend some time at the Pulpit before we continue on, further up the mountain, in search of better views. The extra effort paid off, because a bit of a way up we found a fantastic vantage point of the crowded rock below. We probably spent a couple of hours up there exploring before beginning our relatively quick trip back down and preparing for our onward journey to Lysbotyn.

Rhys stands on the famous Kjeragbolten in Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

Kjeragbolten

Distance: 10km | Elevation: 1084m | Difficulty: Challenging | Duration: Five hrs | Season: June to September | Parking: About $AUD25

The hike up to Kjerag has got to be one of Norway’s most famous. Without a doubt, it was the hardest hike we did for The Fit Traveller, but it was one of the most rewarding.

Firstly, take a look at the road up the mountain; a 29-kilometre steep road punctuated with 32 hairpin turns. That’s before you even get to the start of the hike. The starting point is Øygardstøl.  There are a cafe and carpark at the top of the mountain to psych yourself up before beginning the 12-kilometre hike. 

The initial climb up to Kjeragbolten challenges hikers with rocky sections. Image © Rhys Sain

We’d been warned only to do the hike in the summer months. Unsurprisingly, the road is closed during the winter and the climb is pretty much impossible. We set off we soon worked out why. To say the first section of the hike is steep and slippery would be an understatement. You basically have to haul yourself up using some low-slung chains. This hike isn’t for the faint-hearted. Add to this the strong winds and horizontal rain, and you’ll get a bit of a picture of what we were up against. Thankfully, we knew the first section was the most challenging and we’d heard if we could do that, we’d be able easily be able to complete the hike.

The road zigzags up the valley towards Kjerag, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

Eventually, the incline plateaued out and the hike opened out into an expansive green valley. It was fairly easy-going from then on, with only a few more steep sections. The walk is fairly well-marked and because there were plenty of people doing it, it wasn’t too hard to find out where we were supposed to be going. 

The stunning fjord view from the Kjeragbolten hike, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

We made it to the top in exactly two hours, a feat we may have been able to do more quickly, had it not been for the adverse weather. The clouds were low and there was still a fair bit of snow on the mountain and so it really wasn’t until we were right in front Kjeragbolten that we knew we had arrived.

On the rock’s edge among the clouds near the Kjeragbolten, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

So there it was; Kjeragbolten, a giant boulder wedged in a mountain crevasse, 1084 metres above Lysefjorden. The tough clamber up suddenly became worth it. It was freezing and snowy and blowing a gale but we couldn’t leave without getting the coveted picture on top of the bolder – so against better judgement, I braved the weather and trapezed out onto the rock. The rock was icy, wet and freezing cold, with the waterfall below blowing upwards. But it was worth it. Terrifying, yes. But worth it. It also made the precariously climb back down the mountain worthwhile. We had a quick stop at the cafe at Øygardstøl for a quick celebratory beer and to thaw out before embarking on our next mission – the road down to Lysbotyn.

Flørli, Norway is famous for its 4444 step wooden staircase. Image © Rhys Sain

Flørli Stairs

Distance: 4.8 km | Elevation: 741 m | Difficulty: Challenging | Duration: 3 hrs | Season: Spring/summer

Flørli is famous for its 4444 step wooden staircase. It’s the longest of its kind in the world. Like everywhere else in Norway, the hike affords amazing views of the luscious Lysefjord. We hadn’t really planned on doing the Flørli stairs. But we had a day up our sleeves, and the hike was close to where we were staying in Lysbotn. 

Low hanging clouds above the moody fjord at Fljorli, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

Half of the mission is actually getting to Flørli. It’s only 20-odd minutes from Lysbotn, but there are only a couple of ferries passing-by a day. Of those, only two provide viable options if you want to do the hike as a day trip.

Two companies service the route: Kolumbus and TheFjords. Kolombus runs from Lysbotyn at 0720, 1530 and 1745; with returns from Flørli at 1445 and 1730. TheFjords leaves Lysebotn at 1200 and returns at 1645. But here’s the catch, and a hard-learned lesson by us. TheFjords is a big tourist boat, with commentary and the rest. It’ll set you back about $75 per person, return. Kolombus, however, will only cost you $15.

The famous Florli staircase is a tough climb with incredible views. Image © Rhys Sain

Because we had completed the long and challenging hike to Kjeragbolten the day before we decided to have a lazy morning and head over on the midday boat. Little did we know, that our sleep-in would cost us 50 dollars. You can take cars on both boats (for an extra cost), and the trip takes a quick 15-30 minutes

So, practical information aside, before we knew it, we were there, at Flørli, staring up at the seemingly endless staircase stretching ahead of us. We wasted no time in getting started, and with a spring in our step we headed on up. As we continued, the spring in our step started to slacken as the monotony of climbing 4444 stairs started to settle in. This wasn’t going to be as easy as we had anticipated. We eventually hit the 1000 step mark, and then the 2000 step and then the halfway mark. There are plenty of opportunities for rest stops, offering amazing views while you relax your tired legs.

While for the most part, the rain held off, it was a pretty cold and dreary, grey day, but the constant climbing kept us warm and was a good incentive for us to keep going. Eventually, we hit the 4000 mark and finally, at 4444 steps, and with legs like jelly, we made it. We made it to the top in exactly 1.5 hours, and that includes rest stops! We didn’t have a whole lot of time, because we didn’t want to miss our boat back, and so after a quick photo stop, we began our next task – working out how to get back down.

A quick photo stop and a moment to take in the view on the Florli staircase climb, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

All the information we’d read had advised against trying to back-track down the steep stairs. Based on our experience of climbing up, we weren’t game on risking it. So in lieu of the stairs, we found a bit of a path that looked as though it was leading back down the mountain. It’s not really as clearly marked or obvious as some of the other hikes that we’d done, but we knew the general direction we had to head, and we knew that we wanted to be going down. The trip down may have been harder than the trip up. It switched between rocky outcrops, rushing rivers and waterfalls and muddy expanses. And it was just about as steep as our climb up. But the fantastic views continued, and we had a boat to catch, so we maintained our motivation.

We hit the bottom around 1545 – completing the entire hike in a good three hours, and giving us just enough time for a rest and a snack. There’s not a great deal else to do in Flørli, and while you can spend the night there, we were glad we were on the 1645 train back to Lysbotyn. 

For more information on how to get to and from Flørli, as well as food and accommodation options, check out the town’s official website.

Rhys stands on the famous Trolltunga after a challenging hike. Image © Rhys Sain

Trolltunga

Distance: 22km | Elevation: 900 m | Difficulty: Strenuous | Duration: 10-12 hrs | Season: June to September | Parking: About $AUD35. You’ll also need to catch the shuttle to the start of the hike

When it comes to the best hikes in Norway, Trolltunga will likely always make the list due to its Instagram-fame. Hiking to Trolltunga was also the most challenging and the most rewarding of the hikes we did in Norway. We thought we were doing well with time by getting to the car park at the foot of the mountain at 830 in the morning. But, we soon realised there were already hundreds of people ahead of us. The lower car park at Skjeggedal was already full, and there was a bit of a slow wait to be directed up to an overflow car park.

Crowds gather on the now Instagram-famous Trolltunga in Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

The hike is challenging from the get-go: 20 extremely steep, hairpin bends ascend to another carpark. From there, the hike begins in earnest. There’s a kilometre of tough and uneven stone steps, leading further up the mountain. From there, the trail levels out a bit. We took a moment to catch our breath before continuing on, dodging muddy puddles, crossing streams and creeks and clambering over rocks and boulders. The higher we got the better the views became, with craggy volcanic rocks surrounding glassy crater lakes. While we were very lucky to have been blessed with blue sunny skies, there was still a bit of snow about which helped us keep cool, and made for some fab photos.

Taking in the stunning scenery on the lengthy and beautiful Trolltunga hike, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

Finally, a little under four hours after we set off, we caught our first glimpse of Trolltunger – a thin sliver of rock jutting precariously out over Lake Ringedalsvatnet. Ten or so minutes later we were there. We spent a bit of time taking photos of the Troll’s Tongue, before joining the long line to climb out on to it. We waited a good half-hour but the wait was definitely worth it. The views from Trolltunga were breathtaking, but definitely not for the faint-hearted. The rock juts out impossibly from the mountainside, with nothing but air between you and lake Ringedalsvatnet, 700 metres below. We got our snaps, before racing back to safety for a bit more time relaxing and soaking up the views.

Sunlight bouncing off the water during the Trolltunga hike, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

Around 1430, six hours after setting off, we decided to begin the long hike back down the mountain. It wasn’t easy – the hike down took us about 3.5 hours, but we had just enough time for a quick drink before getting the bus back to the car park. Before long, we were back in Odda (about 7km from the car park at the start of the hike) enjoying a beer and gorging on a much-deserved pizza.

Feasting on incredible panoramic views during the Rampestreken hike, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

Rampestreken

Distance: 2 km | Elevation: 715 m | Difficulty: Challenging | Duration: 3 hrs | Season: April-November

It’s funny, we hadn’t exactly planned to hike up Nesaksla. We knew there was a lookout with fab views, but were totally unprepared for the mission-and-a-half it was to get to the top. But like with everything, no pain, no gain. Our reward in this scenario was the stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Åndalsnes down below.

Lookout for the physical sign posts during the hike up to Rampestreken in Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

I’d read that parking was an issue in Åndalsnes with strictly enforced time limits. So, when we finally arrived (Google sends you to the wrong address, but a handwritten sign there points you in the right direction), we were apprehensive about parking. We saw a lot of cars parked in an old, abandoned petrol station. It looked far from official, but it was a Friday morning, so we decided to throw caution to the wind.

From the get go we should have guessed this was going to be more than a walk in the park. Within a few minutes an old iron walkway gave way to a steep climb through thick, muddy vegetation. The track is well sign-posted with boards about every 100 metres telling you how high you are, how far you’ve come and how far you’ve got to go. While there are ample branches to hold on to, and roots to gain footholds in, it was still a fairly challenging hike. 

Around 430 metres above sea level, we found saviour in the shape of big stone steps, apparently laid by Nepalese Sherpas. We continued another 150 steps before, eventually, at 580 metres, we made it. We’d arrived at the lookout. It’s a long metal drawbridge-style platform, protruding from the mountainside. As well as fantastic views of the town below and fjord in front of you, we were rewarded with expansive blue skies and vistas of turquoise water.

Fantastic views of the town below, the fjord in front of you and turquoise waters beyond on the Rampestreken hike, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

As tough as the hike was, and as unprepared as we were, we decided to continue on, with the hope of reaching Nesaksla, the peak of the mountain. At 715 metres above sea level, we reached the top.

The blue skies were holding out, but it certainly was a lot windier on the exposed craggy mountain top. We had a good rest, relaxing and taking in the views, before signing the summit log and starting our long descent back down the mountain.

The hike took us about two hours up and about 1.5 hours back down again. While you can easily stop at the lookout, we figured that we’d come this far, and might as well continue on to the summit. It’s a pretty easy hike in the way of being well signposted, but it’s definitely not an easy walk up. It’s a very steep incline, and it’s fairly tough on the knees making your way back down again. There were a few people about, but the hike was far less busy than some of the others we’d done but easily still one of the best hikes in Norway.

Picture perfect scenery caught during the hike up to Nesaksla, Norway. Image © Rhys Sain

Rhys Sain

Rhys is an international journalist and writer.

He’s the founder of Rhys Roams, a travel and lifestyle blog. He enjoys researching, writing, and of course travelling. He started travelling from an early age and hasn’t stopped yet.

Rhys is from Australia, has studied in Paris, worked in London and is currently chasing international news in Turkey.

He is interested in fitness, photography, and food, and if he’s not travelling, then he’s busy planning his next trip or talking about his last one.

www.rhysroams.com/

Annie Scott

Total Chi in central London feels more like a spa oasis in the busy centre of town. Image © Annie Scott

Total Chi | 243 Baker Street, London

Small but perfectly formed, Total Chi is a tiny oasis of tranquillity in bustling central London. A relatively new joiner to the London fitness scene, it has 2 studios and offers yoga, reformer and mat Pilates 7 days a week. Wander past the daily queue for the Sherlock Holmes Museum next door and step into a white haven of all things good.

Total Chi feels more like a spa than a yoga centre. The staff is incredibly friendly, and its top-notch changing rooms are stocked with fluffy towels, Malin and Goetz products and even complimentary razor blades. Free bottled water is provided pre-class and don’t expect to even have to roll out your own mat. There’s a chill-out zone stocked with yoga magazines and thought-provoking books – and the juice bar offers clean drinks and snacks, as well as Monmouth coffee (in my opinion the finest coffee in London). The maximum class size is 8 – so classes are never crowded and it’s easy to ask for help or advice during a class.

Both yoga studios look out over a tiny Zen garden and I never fail to emerge refreshed and re-balanced. Classes on offer range from warm vinyasa to power yoga, kundalini, yoga for stress, pre-natal yoga, yoga nidra and even yoga for kids. The teachers are carefully vetted and the teaching is of an exceptionally high standard. A real find when it comes to the best yoga studios London has hidden away. 

Triyoga is a big name in the London yoga scene with five studios spread across the capital. Image © Annie Scott

Triyoga | Multiple Locations

From its beginnings in London’s fashionable Primrose Hill in 2000, Triyoga has grown to become the big daddy of the London yoga scene, boasting five yoga centres across the capital. With its distinctive purple branding and buzzing vibe, Triyoga really is a hub of all things mind, body and spirit, offering everything from osteopathy and massage to healthy lunches and even its own teacher training programme.

Virtually every style of yoga is taught here, and at all levels. Everyone is catered for from beginners to teachers. Mats are provided, although this is a busy centre and some are a little warn. If you have your own it’s worth bringing it.

Triyoga also offers mat and equipment pilates, barre classes and, most recently, Gyrotonic classes, a movement class using a “pulley tower”, that feels like a hybrid of reformer pilates with a yoga twist.

The centres also offer meditation and mindfulness classes and a wide variety of workshops, ranging from a few hours to a few days, through which you can deepen different elements of your practice, or just learn something new.

The treatment rooms cater for every need you can think of for mind and body, whether you’re looking for physiotherapy, acupuncture, reflexology, homeopathy, cognitive behavioural therapy, diet advice or even a massage or facial. Triyoga has excellent therapists and offers it all.

The Camden, Soho and Chelsea centres also have cafes offering healthy snacks or a post-yoga smoothie. And if you’ve forgotten your yoga pants don’t worry! Each centre also has its own shop, stocked with great quality yoga gear as well as skincare, books and even jewellery. Something for everyone.

The gorgeous boutique at Triyoga Chelsea. Image © Annie Scott

Indaba | 18 Hayes Place, Marylebone, London, NW1 6UA

I first discovered Indaba through its workshops – I love the variety on offer here. From gong baths, chanting and connected breathing, to yoga basics and Ashtanga introduction – all of yoga life is here. Which feels appropriate, given Indaba means “gathering”. I’ve had my eye on their various headstand courses for a while, as this particular skill still eludes me.

Indaba feels like a “proper” yoga centre. Friendly, clean and more of an authentic spiritual vibe than some of its more commercial feeling friends in London. Conveniently located behind Marylebone Station, you may wonder where you are when trying to find it – but once inside you’ll find a surprisingly spacious and welcoming space.

The centre also offers treatments and healing – from the traditional to the more “out there”, just reading the menu of options makes me smile. Head to Indaba for sports massage of hot stone therapy – or take the plunge with ancestral healing or transformational breathing. Indaba encourages you as far as you want to go on your spiritual journey. Namaste.

Yotopia | 13 Mercer Street, London

Simple and modern surroundings offering yoga and hot yoga in pretty Covent Garden. Covent Garden is a great area of yogis. A tourist mecca and shopping hotspot, the area as a great alternative culture if you know where to look. Crystal shops rub shoulders with high street chains, yoga studios are dotted around above the busy streets and nourishing organic food is never far away.

Yotopia is an excellent, straight-forward yoga studio. Lots of natural light and good clean equipment, functional changing rooms and great teaching. It offers a wide range of yoga styles and different levels, including an excellent beginners course. I took my first tentative steps on the mat at Yotopia when I was working nearby and really benefitted from the welcoming and encouraging atmosphere the studio promotes. Without this, I may not have continued what has been such a life-changing journey for me.

As well as daily classes, Yotopia offers a number of workshops, many of which focus on the spiritual side of yoga. Gong baths, mediation and chakra work are all on offer. A simple, elegant studio where things are just done well.

Good Vibes | Multiple Locations

Good Vibes focuses its attention on “Glow” yoga and pilates. The crux of this approach is the gentle heat of the classes, achieved using cutting-edge infrared heating, which encourages the body to open. The first studio in Europe to offer this technology, Good Vibes also use SAD lighting to improve one’s mood – an excellent benefit in the depths of the UK’s winter months! Although class sizes are large, there’s something about the atmosphere here that makes it feel cosy and intimate. The dark wood floors and great lighting make you feel tucked away in womb-like safety.

As the name suggests, these studios are all about positivity. Students are encouraged to focus on what feels good in the body, rather than worrying about achieving the perfect pose – which, for me, is what makes great yoga teaching.

The facilities are functional but good. Mats are clean, good quality and pre-laid out (so no awkward “where shall I put myself” moments) – but remember to bring a pound coin for the changing-room lockers.

Classes are busy so book in advance. Teaching is concentrated mainly on Vinyasa flow but other yoga styles are also on offer – including “yang and yin” and candlelit “bliss” classes for the ultimate wind down. The studio also offers mat pilates and “ballet burn”.

Practical workshops are also available – from meditation, arm balancing, and breathing, there’s a number of options to deepen your practice in a way that’s less “woo woo” than some of its more spiritual sisters. A friendly, warm, fun and positive studio.

Annie enjoys a post-practice green juice at Total Chi London. Image © Annie Scott

Annie Scott

Annie Scott is a freelance writer, communications pro and wannabe urban hippy. Since quitting corporate life you’ll find her saying yes to anything that terrifies her, lurking at the back of West London yoga classes and pretending to like kale.

www.anniescott.co.uk

Skye Gilkeson

The glacier fed Moraine Lake sits in the Valley of Ten Peaks in Banff National Park. Well worth the early wake up time to beat the crowds. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Banff to Moraine Lake

We had tried to drive from Banff to Moraine Lake several times during our stay, each time getting to the turn off a little earlier but finding the road closed as it was at visitor capacity. Knowing this was our last shot, we made our way out to Moraine Lake to arrive at sunrise. Despite a carpark filling up fast, we found a spot. Walking down to the stunning aqua water’s edge, the scene drew us in. We walked towards a collection of logs at its edge and snapped half a dozen photos, before finally turning up towards the rock pile to our left. It was covered with people, cameras in hand or tripods hard at work.

The drive from Banff to Moraine Lake takes about an hour. Drive carefully down the Moraine Lake access road is it is winding and very narrow. Make sure you get to the lake very early in the morning as the car park fills up well before 9am. If you aren’t an early riser prepare to wait until the car park empties in the afternoon. There are often people manning the road, filtering traffic in and out.

Take breakfast, including coffee with you. We walked over to Moraine Lake Lodge hoping for a coffee and somewhere to warm up after being near the lake and they only offered a full sit down breakfast menu, no take away coffees.

Related: Two Days in Chicago: A Local’s Guide

A moody Lake Louise on our visit a few days prior as the snow was falling. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Lake Agnes Tea House Hike

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is double the size of Moraine Lake and you can expect the crowds to reflect that too; Lake Louise is one very busy tourist sight. Make your way direct from Banff to Lake Louise (about an hour’s drive) or as we did from Moraine Lake, following the signs to Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Related: Banff Travel Guide

Taking in the first glimpses of the mountain and turquoise water below on the switchbacks up to Lake Agnes Teahouse. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Having visited Lake Louise several days earlier to find the snow falling and a low haze hanging around its edges, we were glad to see the weather had cleared in time for our hike, albeit the snow was incredibly beautiful. It was spitting slightly which we hoped would keep the crowds away for a little longer as we left from out the front of the iconic (and very busy) Fairmont hotel.

The trail up to the Lake Agnes Tea House is lovely and wide and easy to negotiate. As you weave the bends, through the trees climbing to 385 metres above sea level along the Lake Agnes trail to the famous Agnes Tea House, you’ll find the air becomes thinner, the temperature drops noticeably and the ground more slippery and covered in ice and snow in patches, so tread carefully.

We moved at a good pace up the switch backs, only to be overtaken by a super fit local who made us appear to stand still. He was one of the only people we saw on the journey up the mountain though, passing only a few other groups given the early hour of the morning. We took a short stop at the very pretty Mirror Lake which marked a few kilometres since we left Lake Louise and a shorter climb to go before we reached the tea house.

A short scenic break at Mirror Lake a few kilometres up the trail to Lake Agnes Tea House, Canada. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Lake Agnes Tea House 

The Lake Agnes Tea House hike is a 7-kilometre return hike from Lake Louise to the Agnes Tea House and while it is a moderate trail, the scenery alone will carry you to the top. If that fails, think of the tea and cake waiting at the tea house too. We were the first of a handful of people to arrive at Lake Agnes and while it was tempting to grab a spot on the cosy verandah, we couldn’t resist the climb up to Little Beehive.

Related: Banff to Columbia Icefields Day Trip

Enjoying Lake Agnes before the crowds and rain rolled in. This is where hikers can continue up the Big Beehive hike. | © Skye Gilkeson

Little Beehive Trail

The Little Beehive trail offers a stunning panorama over the valley below, including the iconic Lake Louise and it was the part of the hike that we most enjoyed; the views from the tea house all the way up the Little Beehive trail were breathtaking the entire way up (less than a kilometre further), the trail from Lake Agnes up the mountain was narrower and frosted with snow, the trees hugging you tighter on each bend. We rarely saw another soul. We found ourselves alone, taking in the view and trying to capture those incredible colours on camera when the snow began to fall.

Big Beehive Hike

For us, the snow signalled that it was time to wander back down to the tea house for morning tea. For those who want a bit more of a challenge or another viewpoint, you can continue the climb with the Big Beehive hike from Lake Agnes. The Big Beehive trail is often referred to as one of the best hikes in Canadian Rockies, for the views over Lake Louise alone.

The Big Beehive hike takes you up to an epic viewing at the iconic Big Beehive hut and information board.  Be aware, that if you are taking this extended route check on conditions before you start as the Big Beehive trail crosses an active avalanche path, so there are risks involved. Also, make sure you are wearing some proper hiking boots and even cleats as these switchbacks are steep and can be icy. This section isn’t for the beginner hiker. There is a great Big Beehive hike map here.

Related: Must-do Whistler Winter Activities

The stunning viewpoint at Little Beehive above Lake Louise, Canada. Image © Skye Gilkeson

By the time we reached the tea house again, there were people bursting from its doors and others waiting for tables undercover of the verandah. We managed to find a cosy table and sipped on hot chocolate as the rain came down. Thankfully, it didn’t last for too long, giving us time to begin the hike down again.

We took a different route back to Lake Louise, this time finding the trails near the tea house very slippery. The difference was marked between Andrew’s shoes and my own; he took the smarter option of wearing proper hiking shoes while I slid and squealed on patches of ice for the first couple of kilometres on the way back down. We passed more and more people the closer we got to the lake, thankful we made the effort to get up early and hit the trail.

For those who are accustomed to hiking, you may find the inclines challenging in parts. However, if you are fit and walk regularly just take your time and sit at a pace you are comfortable with and you will find it a really enjoyable and of course stunningly scenic hike.

What You Need for the Lake Agnes Tea House Hike

• Ensure you wear a few layers on the hike as the weather can change quickly in this part of the world. Below will help you shop a similar outfit to what I wore and felt very comfortable in on the hike, removing layers as needed.
• I wore two pairs of tights and found I needed the extra warmth.
• I wish I had worn a pair of hiking boots as it would have made the decline much more comfortable when crosses those icy patches. If you are doing the Little Beehive trail or the Big Beehive hike, cleats or proper hiking boots are essential.
• Taking a waterproof backpack like the one below is a clever idea as it will protect your valuables and camera if you are caught in the rain or snow as we were.
• Don’t forget to take cash for the tea house and carry a bottle of water. It isn’t a long hike but you may need it.

Finding a quiet spot to take in the view before the snow fell. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

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