Detour Diaries
Dare to Detour is the supportive wellness community you deserve.
We invite you to join us for the journey, as we reconnect with ourselves — mind, body, and spirit — and step into a new way of being.
Sydney Ludden | From Postpartum Funk to European Adventure
Traveling with an infant. A daunting task.Traveling internationally with an infant and packing up to be abroad for an entire month? I had some nerves.
Montana Ranch Retreat Recap
Last month marked 8 years of Dare to Detour (!). As I reflect on our recent retreat at the Nine Quarter Circle Ranch, I can't help but feel this might have been our best one yet…
My Guide to London as a Solo Traveler
I took the train ride from Scotland to get to London and spent my 5 days there eating, exploring bookstores, and walking gawking at the spring gardens in bloom. Each day I would simply wander, pop into a cafe, shop, or restaurant, and continue walking about. I stayed in Notting Hill, because why not?!
Scotland Retreat Recap: 7 Days in Cairngorms National Park
Have you ever dreamed of walking through Scotland's wild landscapes, mist hanging over the moors, a wee dram of whisky in hand, and unmatched natural beauty at every turn? I recently experienced exactly this during our unforgettable seven-day retreat in Cairngorms National Park, an adventure that combined walking and whisky in perfect harmony.
Embracing Adventure at Any Age
Have you seen the National Geographic article going around about women diving into outdoor adventures as they age? This piece truly resonated with me because it's something I feel passionate about, especially as someone who’s redefined her own relationship with fitness and nature over the years. 🌿🏃♀️ So I couldn't resist sharing my thoughts with you.
A List of Women-Only Experiences in Montana and Beyond
In the spirit of Detouring with a group of women currently, I wanted to touch on this topic — the importance of women coming together and supporting each other. Especially in the world of business and retreating. We KNOW how powerful it is to be in community with other women.
What Kind of Packer Are You?
I used to be a last-minute packer. I would ensure my kids were packed days in advance, but I often found myself scrambling to pack for myself well into the midnight hours the night before our departure. But now, my packing routine has evolved into a delightful dance of anticipation and practicality.
Behind the Scenes of How I Plan a Trip
When crafting the itineraries for my Dare to Detour retreats, I start by defining what we will NOT do. The point of these trips is that I want it to be a true Detour - not an itinerary you would do with family or your friends. So rather than following the traditional tourist trail or "top 5 must-sees" outlined by popular travel guides, I intentionally opt for truly unique experiences.
How to Have the Budget Conversation with your Partner
I've had countless conversations with women about this. It's a common challenge, but a conversation worth having with your partner to advocate for the transformative power of solo travel. Here are some tips on how to approach the budget convo.
Go All-Inclusive
So, you've been tossing around the idea of Detouring with Dare or maybe you're still contemplating. I've heard Mercury is in retrograde, so if you're feeling a bit on the fence, blame it on the cosmos, right? 😊 I'm definitely feeling the need to be extra careful about all of my decisions, big or small. Whether you're ready to take the plunge or still mulling it over, I want to share the truth behind what "all-inclusive" really means at Dare.
Spoiler: it's seriously everything!
Big Money Moves
I’m in the mood to get real about money, and I want to get into how to master the mental moves that happen behind-the-scenes of big purchases. So, buckle up because I'm whisking you away to the vibrant souks of Marrakesh, where I found myself entangled in a whirlwind of colors, culture, and, of course, rugs!
So You’ve Never Been to Italy
Italy has this magic that keeps pulling me back – more than any other place. It's like my heart found its favorite spot to dance in the world. I've traveled here more than any other country. I call it my personal Eat, Pray, Love destination. Seriously, it's the nurturing ground for my soul. From our Detour in the Dolomites last year to wandering the streets of Rome all by myself, each trip adds another layer and I’ve come to realize that if you've ever dreamt of traveling to Europe…
Why Investing in Travel is a Must
Recently, I've found myself reflecting on the essence of travel, the pure joy it brings, and it's got me thinking a lot about treating ourselves to our own adventure.
More Than a Trip
I LOVE love and my heart has a soft spot for Italy, especially in the fall. This October a group of wonderful Darlings will join me as we immerse ourselves in La Dolce Vita at a 16th-century farmhouse among vineyards and olive groves.
How Travel Can Be the Biggest Catalyst for Change
As we step into the New Year, I want to share a personal reflection that has significantly shaped my own journey. We frequently find ourselves in a groove-perhaps a fantastic one-but it often hinders us from seeing beyond our routine. The most impactful approach to break free from this cycle is by embracing change. Want to know the quickest way to make a shift in your life?
The Importance of Feminine Leadership
Dare to Detour hosted its first-ever Dinner with Darlings event. And it was a truly remarkable evening of connection, shared experiences, and empowerment. The gathering brought together a diverse group of women who showed up fully and embraced the spirit of the event.
Which Type of Travel Planner Are You?
Do you like to research in advance and create organized itineraries? Are you the one who handles booking all of the tickets, hotels, rental cars, transfers, and Uber drivers? Do you comb through articles on travel sites for inspiration? Let me guess... are you the go-to planner for your family/friend group/crew?
A Guide to Solo Road Trips
The thing is, as much as you plan and prepare, you can't know exactly how things are going to roll on the road. Even good road trips have bad days, and unplanned Detours are always a possibility.
What's the ROI of a Detour?
Answer: It depends on the things you prioritize as investments in your life. Some people view travel as a luxury item. But for me, it's an essential investment in self. Therefore, investing in travel is important to me.
5 lifetime trips you need to take as a woman
I’ve been thinking a lot about the adventures I’m still hoping to schedule before Montana’s winter weather hits. And also, I’ve been very reflective about the amazing experiences I’ve had so far this year, some in far-flung places, and what would be additive. It got me thinking…