“Laurel is a go-to writer. Her work is well-researched, well-written and incredibly engaging.”
— Jamie Martin
Senior Editor,
Experience Life
Nothing inspires me to write more than unique people, places and cultures. When I’m traveling, I feel a sense of home throughout the world, whether I rest my head on a luxury spa's downy pillow or fold myself inside mosquito netting in a tropical jungle.
Responsible tourism
Culturally and ecologically sensitive travelers can help preserve our global home by supporting destinations that respect and conserve the planet’s resources. I’m committed to spreading the word about eco-lodges, green hotels and B&Bs, solar-powered resorts, and local initiatives that remunerate local people for protecting area ecosystems and natural resources.
Eating Up Jamaica
Islands, January/February 2012
A trip to Jamaica’s lightly-touristed Portland parish turns out to be an exploration of the island’s food traditions—from Blue Mountain coffee to indigenous dishes cooked by the Maroons (escaped slaves turned freedom fighters) to Euro-Caribbean cuisine that’s fresh from local organic farms. Read Article >
Back to Switzerland
Natural Home & Garden, March/April 2012
Visiting farms and vineyards in Switzerland was a culinary delight—and a wonderful way to enjoy the breathtaking countryside. Agritourism supports small family farms and reconnects visitors with their food sources, encouraging them to eat and shop locally. Read Article >
Boulder’s Winter Bug
AAA EnCompass, January 2010
I had a blast playing tourist in my home town while researching this article about things to do in Boulder in winter. My husband and I dined at new restaurants, stayed in the fabulous (and green) St. Julian hotel, and laughed all the way through the hilarious Banjo Billy tour. Read Article >
Earth-Friendly Forays
Experience Life, April 2007
My Galápagos Islands trip with an eco-outfitter provided the framework for this piece about ways active vacationers can lighten their environmental impact on their outdoor destinations. I also shared with readers how easy and inexpensive it is to carbon-offset air travel. Read Article >
Wicked Winter Fun
Natural Home, January/February 2007
Devil’s Thumb, a Colorado mountain ski resort, stays toasty with renewable geothermal energy. Natural Home, a sustainable lifestyle magazine, frequently features eco-conscious destinations. Read Article >
Green Globetrotter: St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Natural Home, March/April 2005
I wrote a number of "Green Globetrotter" pieces while on staff at Natural Home. The articles provide an overview of environmentally responsible destinations (restaurants, hotels, sights) in a region— in this case, these lightly developed Caribbean islands. Read Article >