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Laurie J. Schmidt

Award-winning Freelance Writer

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Solo Travel

Desert Hiking: Essential Tips for Staying Safe

Hiking, Solo Travel, Utah · April 14, 2025

As a kid, I was terrified by a scene I saw in an old western movie: A cowboy died a slow death when he sunk in quicksand. It was typical …

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My Adventure on Aitutaki Atoll

Cook Islands, Oceania, Solo Travel · April 1, 2025

I’ve always had a fascination with the South Pacific. Something about the vast Pacific Ocean and its remote islands has always drawn me to …

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New Zealand: Driving the South Island’s West Coast

New Zealand, Oceania, Solo Travel · March 12, 2025

Mountain reflections in Lake Matheson in New Zealand

When I traveled solo around the South Island's West Coast in New Zealand, I hadn’t planned to spend much time on the West Coast. It was just …

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Solo Travel: Overcoming the Fear

Solo Travel · February 22, 2024

I’ve been traveling solo for more than 25 years, and it’s given me some of the most rewarding experiences of my life. But was I afraid at …

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© 2025 Laurie J. Schmidt