Stephanie Elizondo Griest is the author of award-winning memoirs. Her writing delves into themes of identity, culture, and the search for one's place in the world, often with a touch of humor and personal reflection. Griest masterfully blends travelogue elements with a deep exploration of human connection and societal issues, offering readers engaging and thought-provoking narratives. Her distinctive voice and narrative approach make her a significant voice in contemporary nonfiction.
The narrative follows Stephanie Elizondo Griest's journey from South Texas to Russia, driven by her ambition to be a foreign correspondent. Her adventure unfolds over four years and twelve nations within the Communist bloc, challenging her initial beliefs about the "Evil Empire." Through her experiences, she discovers unexpected truths about the cultures and people she encounters, leading to a profound transformation in her understanding of the world.
With its breezy reviews and insightful advice, 100 Places Every Woman Should Go encourages women of any age to see the world — in a group, with a friend, or solo — and inspires them to create their own list of dreams. Based on her own explorations of many countries, states, and regions, and on interviews with travelers, award-winning author Stephanie Elizondo Griest highlights 100 special destinations and challenging activities — from diving for pearls in Bahrain to racing a camel, yak, or pony across Mongolia; to dancing with voodoo priestesses in Benin and urban cowboys in Texas; to taking a mud bath in a volcano off the coast of Colombia. Divided into such sections as “Places Where Women Made History,” “Places of Indulgence,” and “Places of Adventure,” this guidebook includes timely contact information, resources, and recommended reading. “Ten Tips For Wandering Women” features safety precautions plus pointers on haggling, packing, and staying parasite-free. Vivid portraits of free spirits like Frida Kahlo (“A tequila-slamming, dirty joke-telling smoker, this famous artist was bisexual and beautiful”) help travelers expand their experience.