Jim Wiltens, Redwood City, CA
I went because: I wanted to circumnavigate the Gurvansaikhan National Park on camel while searching for dinosaur bones.
Don't miss: The Khongoryn Els, the highest sand dunes in the Gobi Desert and possibly the home of the mystical Mongolian death worm that hides beneath the sands.
Don't bother: With an exact itinerary. Flights, buses, cars are all at the mercy of the elements and breakdowns. Give yourself time cushions to make connections.
Coolest souvenir: Bought camels for the expedition. I still own one that is being kept by a herder in Dalanzagaad.
Worth a splurge: A night at the Five Camels Lodge resort on the outskirts of the Gurvansaikhan Park.
I wish I'd packed: More gifts to show appreciation for the incredible hospitality of the Mongolian nomads who took us into their gers (homes).