Interview with Patricia Schultz, World Traveler and Author of New York Times Bestseller "1,000 Places To See Before You Die"

What is it like “hosting” a tour?

Although MIR is very gracious in letting me decide how involved I’d like to be, I take my hosting responsibilities seriously! We are all on this adventure together to learn and experience as much as possible… My biggest contribution (and pleasure) may be the many spontaneous conversations enjoyed on the bus, in the hotel lobby, or at the dinner table, where the topic invariably shifts to favorite travel experiences and future Bucket List destinations.

What’s the biggest challenge for you of hosting a group tour?

One would think it would be keeping the dynamics of the group smooth and pleasant. But even with so many personalities and expectations, our groups have always been an amiable and fascinating mix of adventurers of different stripes and colors. MIR’s destinations are not the average garden variety, and they attract flexible, like-minded travelers of a similar approach to travel and exploration. I have made some great friendships that have lasted well after we all headed home.

How about the other MIR tours – 5 ‘Stans and the Balkans?

Prior to those experiences with MIR, I could barely find those countries on a map, let alone tell you much about them. But thanks to the breadth of knowledge of our guide Michel Behar – coupled with a passion and enthusiasm for these regions that is unmatched – I now feel respectably familiar with those two fascinating corners of the world. They remain amazingly underrated and unsung – except by MIR, who was one of the first tour companies to offer travel there and shine a spotlight on their importance. (Read Patricia’s Travel Weekly articles about travel to The Balkans and to The 5 ‘Stans of Central Asia.)

What do you love most about traveling?

I love the thrill of it all – the chance to explore unknown countries and cultures, to feel like a window has been flung wide open on yet another mysterious destination that had barely made it onto my radar. University for me was a solid foundation of academia, but most of what I’ve learned in life of real substance and worth has come from travel. And I will always have vibrant memories and enduring friendships as proof.

• Patricia Schultz chatting with a local in Uzbekistan. Michel Behar
• Author Patricia Schultz in Kotor, Montenegro. Michel Behar
• Patricia viewing the petroglyphs in Cholpan-Ata, Kyrgyzstan. Michel Behar
• Tour Host Patricia Schultz on MIR’s Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova small group tour. Michel Behar
• Tour Host Patricia Schultz on MIR’s Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova small group tour. Michel Behar

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Do you count your countries in a formal sort of way? How many have you been to?

Those familiar with 1,000 Places To See Before You Die may see me as the Queen of Lists. But surprising to many (and sometimes to myself as well!) I have never counted the countries I have visited. I am far more interested in those I have not yet visited. I know it cannot be, but there seems to be an ever increasing list of new countries, because the more I travel, the more my Wish List grows! And anyway, can you really “check off” a country the size of Russia or China after a 3-day business trip? At what point can you say you’ve “done” Russia and move on?

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How has 1,000 Places To See Before You Die evolved over time?

Each entry is now more dense with information and peripheral attractions. In the original, I might have isolated the Italian town of Positano. In the revision, I incorporated it into a mini-itinerary entry called the Amalfi Coast, including the various neighboring towns along the way – of which Positano remains one of my favorites (tip: avoid the bumper-to-bumper traffic on that cliff-hugging drive June through August when it can dampen the experience).

What’s your best travel tip for people who want to go to under-the-radar places?

If, like me, your mind turns to remote places like Mongolia or North Macedonia, I would say do your homework (though my hat always goes off to those who leave on a whim and show up without a plan, often enjoying incredibly rewarding experiences.) Make sure you have the time needed to get to – and travel around, upon arrival – a destination that may have very limited infrastructure and present challenges at every turn.

Of course, deferring to an eminently established tour company like MIR is the way to go, and would be my first recommendation. I mean, how often will you pass that way again? Having an excellent guide is optimal.

What do you always pack in your carry-on?

A recent trip from New York to Guatemala that should have taken 8 hours door to door, wound up taking me more than 24 hours. Always anticipate a possible 24-48 hour period when your carry on will be all you have! My pashmina scarf and Nature Valley snack bars were much appreciated during long nighttime hours when the airport was empty, deserted, and cold. But Guatemala was worth every inconvenience!

MIR has more than 30 years of travel experience in Central & East Europe, and has an affiliate office in Kiev, Ukraine. Our full service, dedication, commitment to quality, and destination expertise have twice earned us a place on National Geographic Adventure’s list of “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth.” 

Join Patricia Schultz – world traveler extraordinaire, and author of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die – as she hosts MIR’s August 15, 2020 departure of Bulgaria & Romania: Frescoes & Fortresses.

Original publish date: August 7, 2018