Seeing the World from the Saddle, One Country at a Time, with Yulia Frolova

This week’s guest is Yulia Frolova, a self-proclaimed – and literal – globe trotter. Yulia is the blogger behind the popular EquiGeo, a travel blog documenting her goal to ride a horse in every country around the globe. Her count so far? 45… and counting! And with 197 recognized countries (or independent states), Yulia has already made a great dent in her goal! Whether it’s in the desert, the deepest snow, or on her way to an audience with the Pope, Yulia is most in her element when she’s traveling the world… and seeing it from the back of a horse.   Most equestrians would see a job that requires international travel (as much as 25 times a year!) as a challenge to riding, but she has turned it into a fun adventure and a wildly popular blog. In this episode, Yulia speaks about how she set this goal for herself; how she balances riding, blogging, family, and work; some of her favorite memories from riding and trying different disciplines in their countries of origin; as well as some of the challenges she has faced while traveling. Yulia also recounts many of the fun memories from her travels, the people and horses she has met along the way, and the remarkable stories that have come from it all. You won’t want to miss this week’s episode of Because of Horses with Yulia Frolova, the globe trotter!   Topics of Discussion: [:18] About today’s episode. [1:07] How did Yulia set the goal of riding in every country around the globe? [2:30] What is Yulia’s job? And how does she balance it with riding, blogging, and family? [3:54] What led Yulia to blogging and sharing her journey? [6:26] Yulia reminisces about some of her favorite – and most unusual – adventures. [10:40] Why Yulia began focusing on her riding after moving to Dubai. [12:32] Yulia speaks about a special connection she had with a stallion named Romeo. [14:04] The fun of trying disciplines in their countries of origin. [18:31] Some of Yulia's favorite experiences. [22:11] When Yulia is setting up her itinerary, how does she find places to ride... especially in countries like Iraq and – surprisingly – Germany? [24:05] Is there anything that would keep Yulia from riding? [25:16] Are there any similarities or universal characteristics in the horse people Yulia has met? [29:29] What are some of the challenges Yulia has faced when traveling? [33:07] Yulia speaks about one of the most difficult countries to find a place to ride: Germany. [34:34] How many languages does Yulia speak? And how does she navigate countries considering the language barriers? [36:05] Do horse people have a connection that transcends language? [37:51] Elise shares a remarkable story from her travels. [40:10] One of Yulia’s most memorable moments – in war-torn Iraq. [43:21] What is it like for Yulia to share her adventures with her favorite travel companion, her husband (who happens to not be a horse person)? And what does he think of her goal to ride in every country? [45:22] What is like for Yulia to share her love of horses with her young daughter? Does her daughter share her same passion? [47:44] About next week’s episode of Because of Horses. [48:46] Yulia’s principles for traveling internationally on horseback. [51:57] Yulia’s favorite riding gear that she will not leave home without! [52:28] Where is Yulia headed next? And what other places are high up on her list? [55:27] Yulia gives advice for travelers interested in riding away from home. [57:37] Where to find Yulia online to follow her adventures!   Know Someone Inspirational, Whose Life Has Been Forever Changed Because of Horses? Because of Horses would love to get to share their story! To recommend someone please send an email to [email protected].   Mentioned in this Episode: The Hampton Classic EquiGeo Blog @Equi_Geo on Instagram EquestFile (Use coupon code: BOH10 to receive a 10% discount for two months off your subscription) GGTFooting.com/BOHP Life Between the Ears | Kristine Dahms Next week’s episode of Because of Horses   Like what you hear? Because of Horses would love to hear your feedback! Please email [email protected] to send Because of Horses your thoughts.   To Support the Podcast: ● Donate on Paypal to help keep Because of Horses running — all amounts are welcome! ● Subscribe: RSS Feed, iTunes, Google Play, TuneIn, Stitcher, and Player FM