TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences, and savor the journey.

Cindy Barks

Expert Contributor

Cindy Barks is an Arizona-based newspaper reporter, freelance travel writer, and travel blogger. Her blog, NearandFarAZ gives readers an insider's view of the wonders of the U.S. Southwest, and a traveler's take on far-off locales from Panama to Hong Kong to the Czech Republic. Regardless of the destination, her goal is to find the perfect scenic hike, city walk, beach stroll, or road-trip jaunt, and bring it to life in her blog. Cindy's articles about outdoor adventures have appeared in numerous regional and national publications.

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Cindy Barks

Cindy Barks's Articles

The wooden Key's Ranch house with offroad vehicle towing a trailer in front at Joshua Tree National Park.
Joshua TreeThe Unique Tour Not To Miss In Joshua Tree National Park
Chisos Mountain Basin view
Big Bend11 Best Hikes In Big Bend National Park
Sunset over White Sands National Park dunes in New Mexico.
United States National Parks9 Best Experiences At New Mexico’s White Sands National Park
Cindy Barks great aunt Sigrids home in Porsgrunn
InspireHow A Trip To Norway Changed My View Of My Family And The World
Dante’s View, Death Valley National Park.
Road Trips In The U.S.Joshua Tree To Death Valley: 9 Stops On The Perfect Desert Road Trip
Porto, Portugal old town cityscape on the Douro River with traditional Rabelo boats
Retirement7 Countries That Offer Tax Breaks For Foreign Retirees
Sunrise Zabriskie Point, Furnace Creek, Death Valley National Park
Death Valley9 Death Valley Hikes With The Best Views
Welcome to Old Town Scottsdale sign
Arizona9 Of Arizona’s Most Charming Downtowns
Santa Cruz River Park Trail.
Tucson5 Reasons Why Tucson, Arizona Is A Bicycling Paradise
Cartagena, Colombia.
Retirement9 Reasons Why Colombia Is A Favorite For Retirees
Peavine Trail in Arizona.
Arizona7 Historic Trails Not To Miss In Arizona
Tuzigoot National Monument in Arizona.
Arizona8 Can’t-Miss National Monuments In Arizona