Michelle grew up in the Sonoran Desert and decided at a young age that she hated cactus, 100 degree heat, and the familiar. She subsequently spent as much time as far away as possible and chasing whatever weird adventures came her way (her favorites include dog sledding in Siberia with locals, living in a tent in Australian forests for six months, and racing half-wild horses across Mongolia—she placed third). After traipsing around 35 countries on six continents with an astounding lack of cash, Michelle admits the Sonoran Desert is actually quite enjoyable, and that having a basecamp and health insurance isn’t a terrible idea.