“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.
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 >
Monterey Fish Tale
AAA Encompass, November/December 2002
In honor of John Steinbeck's 100th birthday and Monterey, California’s 400th anniversary, I explored the town’s sardine-packing history (which Steinbeck immortalized in Cannery Row). After WWII, the town’s fortunes plummeted because sardines were over-fished. Today, the Monterey Bay Aquarium teaches the importance of balanced ocean ecosystems. Read Article >
Four Thousand Years of Faith
Colorado Homes & Lifestyles, March/April 1999
Jerusalem’s Old City is layered with the rich traditions of Christianity, Judaism and Islam. My observations in this glorious city were that peace comes through appreciating the history and culture of all three.
Read Article >