Taking the road less traveled by.
“Ruminations” means thinking something over carefully. It’s also what cows do: chewing their cud. I’m the cow, chewing over my thoughts about what I see and experience before I sit down and write about them. Rachel’s Ruminations is a travel blog focused on independent travel with an emphasis on cultural and historical sites. I also occasionally write about my life in the Netherlands, as well as reviews of hotels, resorts, cruises, tours, etc. Thank you for visiting!
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Latest from the Blog

In the path of the Knights Hospitaller in Rhodes
The Knights Hospitallers left their mark on the island of Rhodes to fulfil their double mission: to care for the sick and defend pilgrims and crusaders. Here’s a list of the Hospitaller-related sights on Rhodes.

Travel XS review: Tailor-made tours of India
A review of Travel XS, an Indian boutique tour agency that arranges tailor-made tours. The quality of our samples – two hotels and four tours – was excellent.

Havelis in Jaisalmer
Havelis are a form of architecture common in Rajasthan, but the havelis in Jaisalmer are particularly beautiful. Read about what makes them special and which to visit on your trip to Jaisalmer.

Agra UNESCO sites: Which should you visit?
All three UNESCO sites in Agra, India, plus one extra recommended thing to see, with advice for if you are short of time.

A few days in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, India
In a few days in Khajuraho, you can visit three great places: an outstanding UNESCO-listed historical site and two nature reserves. Includes advice for your Khajuraho trip.

Exploring SE Montana history: State parks & national monuments
Four destinations that illustrate the fascinating history of southeastern Montana from prehistoric times to the 20th century.