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When in the Mongolian steppe, the paradox of serene solitude becomes more than a page read in Endurance. Solitude, the concept that someone can be completely alone, feels inconceivable when in an American city. Coloradans get glimpses of solitude when in the backcountry, but in a matter of hours, a hiker can be enjoying a latte at Starbucks. In Mongolia, solitude permeates the steppe; you can drive a full day and only see smoke extruding from the cylindrical pipe of a ger. A

The Mongolian Steppe is a fragile ecosystem that relies on the animals and people that occupy it to keep it healthy. As herd sizes of goats, sheep, camels, and yaks increase, the steppe is beginning to be degraded by overgrazing and improper circulation of these animals. Goats and the demand for their cashmere have the largest negative impact on the steppe, whereas yaks degrade the environment far less. In order for Mongolia to grow economically, herders must understand how to sustainably maint

For people all around the world, their home is a manifestation of who they are. Culture, interests, and family are woven into their dwelling, creating a unique place for them to provide and prosper. Homes are not just insulation and beams. They represent the needs and desires of those who live inside. An American home can represent our busy schedules and unique style. We decorate our house with abstract paintings and décor while leaving office space to tend to emails. For many other cultures th

Tsetsege is a strong and independent herder who lives with her family in the rolling hills that flank Mt. Otgontenger in Mongolia’s central Khangai Mountains. As Tsetsege walks among her herd of yaks, goats, sheep, and horses, her wide face and high cheek bones catch the sun and she flashes a vibrant smile. She grew up in this expansive landscape, learning the habits of her animals and the ways of nomadic life. Tsetsege shoulders the demanding responsibility of tending her large herd of anima

Today in Mongolia we celebrate the spright and wide-eyed child in us all. In the squares of Ulaanbaatar the ostentatious fantasies and creativities of a child's mind have come to fruition through circuses, ice cream, rides and more. In this story, Annika Furman tells how, much like these circuses and festivities, adventure and travel can bring you back to your youth. One of the incredible elements of traveling and experiencing a new country is the feeling of childlike jubilance. Whether it