Adventure Travel Has Changed . . .
And So Have Adventure Travelers!
It seems adventure travelers used to have a clear goal in mind: “To
Conquer.” Whether it was a mountain, white-water rapids, or an exotic,
far-away, hard-to-get-to destination – it was truly “man vs.
nature” in its purest form. And the ultimate reward was being able
to tell everyone back home about your personal best, most challenging accomplishment.
Indeed, times have changed, and so have today’s “adventure travelers.” According
to a recent article in Travel Weekly, “adventure tour operators are
now dealing with much more sophisticated and diverse adventure enthusiasts.”
Ranging from 8-80, male or female, and often part of a “multi-generational
family group,” today’s adventure traveler is becoming just as
concerned about the environment and the cultural preservation of a chosen
destination.
Another new trend is that today’s adventure travelers
are accomplishing more within the time frame available for their adventure
vacation. For example,
it used to be we would choose between say hiking or snorkeling. Now, we will “hike
faster so we can get to the boat and still have time for snorkeling.”
Besides being more physically active, today’s adventure traveler wants
to learn more and make sure cultural immersion is part of the experience.
Other trends include more families taking adventure-type vacations. Family
trips to the Galapagos, Costa Rica, or a once-in-a lifetime trip to Antarctica
are now on a family’s radar screen.
Next, we do want luxury with our adventure. “Trekking without a sleeping
bag or a tent but spending nights in comfortable, first-class lodges is the
latest rage – from Nepal to Peru to Zambia to Argentina.”
Sophisticated, experience travelers today are also more responsible and more
concerned about our environment and more cognizant of “contributing” to
the places they’re going. In other words, “voluntourism” – i.e.
actually “giving back to the communities that you’re visiting” has
now become very important. Additionally, according to a recent article in
USA Today, adventure travel is now “at the nexus of environmental and
cultural sustainability,” with more and more companies launching “leave
no trace” policies and using local tour operators who are committed
to giving back to their communities.
And last, but certainly not least, is the positive trend that you – our
valued client – want us to partner with you to create a vacation and
itinerary just for you and your traveling companions. To make this work,
we encourage you to take the time to prioritize your interests and objectives
and to identify just what it is you want to accomplish, see, and do. Once
you have established your priorities, together we’ll sit down and design
an adventure vacation that will ensure lifetime memories. As always . . .
where ever you want to go . . . we can get you there! To get you on that path
to “adventure,” we have highlighted a
few diverse and intriguing destinations to consider for your upcoming adventure
journey.
Antarctica . . .
The Lost Continent
It’s been said that “less than 1% of the world’s population
will ever get to set foot on the Antarctic”– are you adventurous
enough to be one of the few to conquer the Lost Continent? Sail across the
unpredictable Drake Passage where massive icebergs, towering glaciers, giant
whales and millions of penguins await you. Voyages may also include a search
of the Emperor penguin, allow you to stop at international research stations
to meet scientists or reach the Polar Circle. Some itineraries can also include
the Falkland Islands. Antarctica is otherworldly, as far away from anything
familiar as you can get. However you've imagined it will seem meager in comparison.
You will have the chance to hike the landscapes, hang out with the penguins,
go kayaking and travel by Zodiac where few have gone before.
Australia . . .
G’Day!
Inspired by the footsteps of early explorers and Aboriginal ancestors,
Australia is a place of awesome journeys. Across and around this massive
land and its
12,000 islands, countless possibilities connect endless unique experiences.
Truly a land of adventure and surprise, Australia is a place where you’ll
quickly appreciate the feeling of space and the fresh informal attitude that
shapes an Australian’s way of life. Travel in Australia offers geographic
wonders, rural settings and cultural insights. Learn about and swim in the
waters surrounding the incredible coral formations of the Great Barrier Reef.
See Uluru/Ayers Rock and other fascinating rock domes and visit the world-renowned
Australian outback. From Cairns you could travel on the scenic Kuranda train
to visit the Aboriginal Tjapukai Cultural Park. The cities are equally interesting – especially
Sydney and Melbourne. It won’t take long before you, too, will have
that Aussie spirit!
China . . .
Beyond the Great Wall
China is much more than the Great Wall, the terra-cotta warriors of Xian,
Beijing or panda bears. China is people . . . accomplished, creative, vibrant
people . . . people who built
elaborate monasteries, temples and pagodas, people who established great
progressive cities and kingdoms and people who still live in ancient and
remote villages.
You could meet these people and celebrate with them, sing and dance, hear
their stories, dine at their tables and become part of a thriving culture.
For unforgettable
memories, you may choose to ride the trains, take a camel up the sand dunes
of the Gobi Desert, explore the Silk Road, shop the chaotic and colorful
outdoor markets, see artisans at work and tour great museums. Roam through
big cities
and ancient villages, take boat rides on rivers, walk with pilgrims, climb
wild portions of the Great Wall and experience a country at work. China
isn't a country – it is its own world. From shop-till-you-drop metropolises
to the epic grasslands of Inner Mongolia – with deserts, sacred peaks,
astounding caves and imperial ruins – it's a land of cultural and
geographic schisms. It’s been said that unless you have a couple
of years to tour, it's best to have a good itinerary. We can certainly
make suggestions
to
ensure that you see and experience the very best of this incredible destination.
Costa Rica . . .
Pura Vida
Costa Rica is a fascinating international destination with authentic, undiscovered
attractions bursting with wildlife and activities for adventurers of every
interest and skill level. Few places on earth contain such wildlife and environmental
diversity, where a short ride or walk presents different habitat, weather
and opportunities. Vacationing in Costa Rica can be described as visiting
the best amusement park because of the variety of options in such a beautiful
setting, yet without
the long lines. Costa Rica is sure to provide a natural backdrop to your
favorite
activities and interests. And we think you’ll agree: The catch-all-phrase, "Pura
Vida" (translated to “pure life”) accurately reflects the
relaxed lifestyle and enviable attitude of the Costa Rican people.
New Zealand . . .
100% Pure
With
vast open spaces filled with stunning rugged landscapes, gorgeous beaches,
often spectacular geothermal and volcanic activity, a temperate climate and
fascinating animal and plant life, New Zealand’s pure natural environment
is enticing and inviting. Travel through New Zealand to experience snowcapped
mountains, active volcanoes, fiords and forests. Visit the magical glowworm
grotto at the Waitomo Caves in Rotorua, the Franz Josef Glacier and the thermal
springs and geysers at Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. Experience the culture
of this land settled by Polynesians and other nationalities. Learn about the
native Maori people as well as the treaty that cemented the relationship between
New Zealand and the British government. Visit major cities including Christchurch,
the largest city on the South Island; Auckland – known for its blend
of Polynesian culture with a modern city environment; and spectacular Queenstown – a
cosmopolitan hub, offering wonderful accommodations, top shopping and excellent
cuisine.
Now that we’ve given you a few intriguing ideas, what are you waiting
for? Give us a call today, and we’ll help plan the adventure of a lifetime!
328
Main Street
Emmaus, PA 18049-2737
(610) 965-9025 • Fax (610) 967-4179
e-mail: jhorn@iobsttravel.com
