SPORTS, “AN ACTIVE VACATION”

SKIING AND SNOWBOARD VACATIONS
BY CLAY LARROY

When you choose to travel, whether it is for business or pleasure, it is important to plan your trip well before hand. Here are some tips to help you. Don't be afraid to cash in your airline miles. Many travelers let their miles accumulate and never bother using them. Reap the rewards of your traveling and spend the miles you've earned! Miles have expiration dates, so be sure to use them before they expire. Travelling is a great way to use your airline miles.  When you need to plan a vacation contact me!

Imagine: A crisp blue sky. Winter. A deep blanket of snow covering the mountains and trees. To hit the ski slopes, it takes a little planning, but if you’re new to skiing or are just looking for a new ski experience - know you have the option of traveling independently or with a like-minded group, and with an experienced tour operator who can take care of all the arrangements... leaving you with little to worry about and poised to have an enjoyable, relaxing trip. The options are many, the destinations worldwide, and the adventure puts an entirely new perspective on cold weather. Just as surf-boarders created their own "endless summer" by trekking the globe year round searching for the perfect wave, so have skiers and snow-boarders taken to the slopes of the Northern and Southern hemisphere to find year-round ski adventures.

Using a good travel consultant, you can book all of the independent elements of a ski trip: air tickets, accommodations, transportation, rentals and lift-tickets. However, travel agents have access to suppliers that provide all of this and more in packaged programs that achieve sizable discounts over booking individual components. No fear: your time is still your own and you do not travel with a group of other skiers on a "tour". If you have a group, usually 10 or more, who want to travel with you, however, a travel agent can often achieve even greater savings.

Consider everything that comes with your trip package to be sure you budget and plan appropriately. Many packages include basics like airfare, lodging, ski tickets, ground transportation, meals and guide service. After a hard day of skiing, you may feel better if you have access to a sauna, hot tub, fireplace, stove, or other kitchen and laundry essentials - check the amenities carefully to be sure you’ll be comfortable.

Some tour operators also offer packages that include many activities other than skiing. Consider adding a 4-wheel drive vehicle rental or snowshoeing excursion to your itinerary. Your travel consultant can make any additional arrangements privately or through the tour operator - just remember that many package deals include extra perks at a discount, so don’t hesitate to ask.

Specialized or custom trips are available for travelers of all ages who can also participate in the many non-ski or highly supervised ski activities found at resorts - just ask your travel consultant how to get started with planning.

A common question is whether someone’s skiing ability will fit in with the rest of a group. This is a good question to raise when you book your trip, but generally, "mixed abilities" are not a problem because groups can be subdivided so instruction and feedback are specific and relevant. However, it is important to match your level of skill to the terrain you will be skiing. Because of the inherent risks involved in the sport, be candid with your travel consultant and your tour operator about your level of ability, and those of your traveling companions.

Accommodations

Lodging for ski vacations vary from hostel-type dormitory arrangements to luxury condominiums, villas and resorts. Again, work with your travel consultant to choose a level of accommodation that meets both your comfort and budgetary requirements.

There are two main types of ski resort: traditional and purpose built.

A traditional resort is typically in a historic alpine village. They are invariably picturesque and offer the most options for travelers interested in the countryside and local culture.

"Purpose built" resorts are usually located higher on a mountain to make the most of more snow for a longer period. While they often lack the native charm of a traditional village, they are more likely to have extensive and modern facilities, particularly helpful for beginners.

Guided Skiing and Lessons

A major advantage of a guided ski trip is finding the best skiing with the least risk. With a group of skiers who have varied abilities, guides often offer more options to experienced skiers, while helping beginners find easy-to-ski lines. Guides manage risk by controlling where the group skis and how they ski a particular pitch. Where hazards are minimal, guides allow for more freedom to explore.

Most of the time a guide will ski first to scope out hazards and snow conditions. Participants ski a few turns behind one another. If you are following the guide, be prepared to stop suddenly, as the guide may need to examine unexpected obstacles, so be sure to give the guide at least 30 feet of space. On non-glaciated, snow packed terrain without crevasses, a guide may sometimes choose to go last, as the potential risk is inherently low.

Tour operators will acquaint you with general skiing conditions and procedures. Group tours involve tremendous cooperation because of their dependence on participants in emergency situations. Although uncommon, most operators take every safety precaution and will spend the necessary time to explain routes in detail and even practice a few procedures to use in case of emergencies.

Because of advances in equipment, safety standards, and terrain mapping, ski accidents are very infrequent and have declined steadily since the 1970s. Always be cautious, but know that if you work with a trusted travel consultant and tour operator, you can also relax and enjoy yourself.

If you are a novice, or if you are traveling with novices, it is usually easy to find a ski resort geared to beginning skiers. Lessons make a tremendous difference and are a worthwhile investment, so add lessons to your budget and schedule. If traveling with your family, your travel agent will sometimes find packages allowing children to ski free with adults, and many packages for beginners include lessons.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 Skiing makes me feel great, and it gives my legs such an incredible workout.
Joely Fisher

 

Travel to experience life and create amazing memories!

SPORTS, “AN ACTIVE VACATION”

RAFTING VACATIONS, “ROLLING DOWN THE RIVER”

BY CLAY LARROY

Regardless of whether you are traveling to a nearby location for the weekend or taking a week-long destination vacation, you are always going to benefit from some tips and ideas on how to make the whole process, more fun and less stressful. Take time each day to alleviate stress while traveling or vacationing and you will thank yourself for it when you get back home. With all the chaos, jet-lag, partying and other excitement of travel comes a whole lot of stress on your mind and body. By the time most vacations are over, another one is needed to recover so taking a few minutes each day to rejuvenate will make it easier for you to resume your normal life when it's all over. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Do your research! Not only do you need to determine your ultimate destination, but you will need to choose between the many river rafting companies servicing your river of choice, and doing so can sometimes be challenging as many rafting companies are small operations with little financial depth.

Review the website and/or brochures of each company. How well trained are the guides? Do they know CPR? Pay attention to the experience of the company on the river. Make sure that the company works with rafters that match your degree of experience and that of your traveling companions. Pay attention to the type of equipment provided, and the description of overnight accommodations and meals..

Fully understand what is and is not included in your trip costs. Packages typically include well-trained and knowledgeable guides, good rafts, safety equipment and transportation to and from the river. Meals and beverages suitable for either single day or multi-day trips are typically included as are any fees for camping arrangements..

Using a good travel consultant experienced in dealing with tour operators and travel insurance will make this part of your trip preparation much less stressful and more confident.

While it is by no means necessary for you to be an athlete to enjoy rafting, you should be prepared for moderately rigorous activity. Because rafters wear personal flotation devices (PDFs), it is not necessary that you know how to swim. However, you will feel much more confident in the boat, and out of it, if you can swim. If you are extremely large, ask your tour operator about the maximum sizes of the PDFs available to participants. If you have any other physical restrictions, make sure your tour operator knows about them in advance. Many tour operators do not permit pregnant women to raft.

It is worthwhile to take time prior to your trip familiarizing yourself with your river routes. Although it is likely that your tour operator will provide you with a daily briefing, your own mental preparation and physical training will be easier to supplement if you know in advance the general course of rapids of your daily schedule while on the trip. Ask your tour operator to provide daily schedules with route guidelines in advance, if possible.

Finally, discuss with your personal traveling companions the various options on the trip and make sure that each is comfortable with the varying degrees of skill, fitness and desired pace represented by each member. Discussing such matters before you arrive at your destination will make your rafting vacation much more pleasant on yourself and on the other participants.

Your river guide company will no doubt provide you with a list of equipment that you should bring. If you own some of your own personal rafting equipment you might want to bring wetsuits, wetsuit boots, and paddle jackets. For multi-day trips, sleeping bags, tents, and sleeping pads may or may not be supplied by your guide company, so make sure to check. It is usually wise to reserve any necessary rental gear well in advance.

The climate of the destination will determine your clothing selection. To the extent possible, pack lightly. River shoes or other appropriate footwear such as Tevas are not essentials but once you have used them, you never go back. Bring appropriate changes of clothing for multi-day trips, including changes of socks and shoes, much appreciated after a day in the water. Be sure to take clothing that dries quickly, avoiding cotton except for after hours. Some of the most important gear you can take are sunglasses (with a strap!) and a hat and sunscreen.

Waterproof containers for money, matches and other essentials are important (most guides will take charge of car keys for you).

Your destination and comfort zone will largely determine when the best time to go rafting might be. Rafting is not only a fair weather sport, and many enthusiasts will raft in late fall and even into winter. Domestically, Arizona tends to have the earliest spring rafting in North America. Because snow melts and rainfall often determine how fast a river is running, temperatures and comfort do not always coincide with warmer seasons. Many rivers have their peak water opportunities in early spring.

Your personal budget will comprise the other half of the "when" question and answer. In general, your best values are in the shoulder season: that period between the highest, peak travel months in your destination and the lowest, off season. Typical shoulder season weather is a bit cooler than peak seasons yet much more affordable. Low seasons, while very inexpensive, tend to be uncomfortable...too hot, too cold, or too wet. Balance off the cost of the trip with your comfort and you will find value!

Rafting vacations are available the world over, from a river not far from your home to the most far off reaches of the planet. The list of possible river trips is extensive but your travel agent can assist you in finding the destination most suitable to your skill level and budget. In the United States, the Colorado River in Colorado and Arizona are well known and much appreciated destinations. Likewise in the West, Utah, Washington, California and Idaho all have excellent rafting. On the east coast, West Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia take top honors. However many other states have excellent white water opportunities?

Internationally, destinations as far flung as Canada, Austria, Nepal, Norway, Costa Rica, Chile and New Zealand are well known for their rafting river experiences. The choice is yours and the possibilities many. When traveling internationally, many more logistical elements are involved, so plan further ahead and make use of as many planning resources as possible, including a good travel agent.

Not all tour operators will offer all destinations during all seasons. Likewise many tour companies will have policies about cancelled departures resulting from too few participants. Be sure to check on, and be comfortable with, the tour operator’s right to cancel a departure.

Are rafting vacations safe? Any travel entails some degree of risk, but the excitement and adrenalin of rapids is an inherent part of the rafting experience. Some risk is inevitable, even on Class I water. Most river guide companies will ask you to sign a waiver in recognition of the danger, however minimal. Rafting companies are very much aware of the inherent risks of being on the water, in rapids, with less than experienced rafters and seek to minimize the probabilities.

Here are a few tips that can help you ensure that you enjoy your rafting vacation with the maximum value and minimum risk:

• Prepare for the trip by making sure that you can physically handle the river’s degree of difficulty. Your guide will ultimately indicate that you are responsible for your choices, so be objective in your estimation of your conditioning. Stay within your limits of difficulty.
• Learn to swim! No, you do not have to know how to swim as PFDs keep you afloat if you find yourself in the water. But let’s face it: you are in the water, in rapids with sharp paddles and whirling hydraulics. Dog paddle anyone?
• Know how to swim in a river. If you fall out of the boat, keep your feet off the bottom of the river! Your guide will no doubt cover proper swimming technique, but one of the greatest risks comes from an underwater rock or branch trapping the swimmer’s foot while the current pushes the swimmer under the surface. If you are not familiar with river swimming technique, ask.
• Rapids and drugs or alcohol do not mix. If you drink at night, be moderate in your consumption so that you are not detoxing while trying to negotiate a set of Class IV rapids.
• Listen to your guides. They know the river, where the tough spots are and how to negotiate each set of rapids.
• Work with the group. Rafting is a team endeavor.
• As always, stay hydrated.
• As with any active vacation, travel insurance covering trip cancellation, trip interruption and medical emergencies is a good idea.

Grab a raft, put on your helmet, and find yourself up the creek with a paddle on your next vacation!

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

The Sun shines not on us but in us. The Rivers flow not past, But through us.
- John Muir

         Live Life and Travel to create marvelous memories!

         

SPORTS, “AN ACTIVE VACATION”

RAFTING VACATIONS, “ROLLING DOWN THE RIVER”

BY CLAY LARROY

Traveling can be an important part of your life, whether for business or for pleasure. Take time each day to alleviate stress while traveling or vacationing and you will thank yourself for it when you get back home. With all the chaos, jet-lag, partying and other excitement of travel comes a whole lot of stress on your mind and body. By the time most vacations are over, another one is needed to recover so taking a few minutes each day to rejuvenate will make it easier for you to resume your normal life when it's all over. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Long before Space Mountain or Coney Island, nature was supplying an elite group of adventurers with a rollercoaster of its own, a ride designed millions of years ago by a master craftsman. Today, thousands of people each year head to rivers around the world to engage in the sport of rafting.

If you are considering a rafting vacation, this guide will help introduce you to the issues you should engage during the planning stage. Even if you are an experienced rafter, there are a few new considerations to be undertaken when you travel a great distance with companions for your active vacation. A bit of foresight will help you make good decisions in your choice of location and guides and ensure a well-planned vacation. Whether any experienced rafter or a novice, you are a rafting vacation offers you the ride of your life all while sitting down!

For purposes of this activity guide, we are speaking only about rafting and not sister paddling sports such as canoeing and kayaking.

Few active vacations provide the fast paced action that is yours when rafting. You and your companions will find yourselves surrounded by landscape sometimes only seen by those who take the river, as stretches of many river runs are inaccessible by any other mode of travel. Rafting vacations provide a unique opportunity to engage in a physical activity for the entirety of a vacation experience. If you already enjoy rafting, you know what you are looking for in a trip and need to consider your choice of outfitter.

If you are a first timer, or not an experienced rafter, then a rafting vacation is for you if:

• You enjoy active vacations;
• You want to spend your vacation time out of doors;
• You enjoy both personal accomplishment and cooperative activities while vacationing;
• You enjoy camping and roughing it;
• You want to experience a very "different" type of vacation.

The three variables that make up the matrix from which a traveler looking for a rafting vacation may choose are destination, degree of difficulty and companions. A good travel consultant is a key component to choosing the right vacation from the right tour operator or guides. There are many possible guide companies and options from which to choose, and each has a different story to tell regarding its own history and experience with rafting. Work with your travel consultant to choose the rafting trip that is right for you and your traveling companions.

Tour operators provide local knowledge of your river, logistical support, routes, itineraries, equipment, food, portage, accommodations and emergency aid when necessary. It is important during the planning stage to select a tour operator that offers an experience that matches your own preferences, and those of your companions.

Ask your tour operator about their cancellation policies and their "bad weather" policies. Typically, bad weather does not mean rain (hey, getting wet is part of the experience), but severe lightening or torrential rains that raise river levels are factors that must be considered.

Find out about accommodations during your trip down river, what type of camping equipment is provided and provisions for privacy. Ask about food quality and meal preparation. Typically the guides prepare all meals. Finally, ask your tour company about the size of the boats. When traveling with a group, you will want to know in advance whether you will be riding together or split between boats.

The traveler considering a rafting vacation should objectively understand his or her skill level and the degree of difficulty of the destination river. The difference between Class Two rapids and Class Five is nothing short of monumental, and no one should find themselves "over their head"! Remember to take into consideration the difficulty factor as it might affect every traveler in your group. If one of your party is less experienced than others, the trip is likely to be a very different experience for individual members unless the river guide company is somehow prepared to accommodate disparities in ability.

Many guides and tour operators impose age limits on rafters for difficult stretches of river. If you are traveling with riders under the age of 18, inquire as to the company’s policies for children and families. Likewise, if you do not want to travel with children in your companion group, investigate the same issues with your tour operator.

Companies providing rafting experiences typically segregate participants by experience and sometimes age. Many offer several different river runs or routes involving how much time is spent on the river, the difficulty of the rapids along the route, and the distance to be covered during a given day. It is important that the traveler be comfortable with the available options, so ask your tour operator.

The classifications below are based on international standards for degrees of difficulty in whitewater sports, with gradients from Class I, the easiest to Class VI, the most difficult. If you are an experienced paddle enthusiast, these categories are no doubt familiar to you. If you are new to the sport, it is very important to stay within the limits of your comfort zone.

• Class I- Easy. Calm, flat water with few obstructions; fast moving water with small ripples; risk is slight if the participant knows how to swim.
• Class II- Novice. Some maneuvering required; obstacles such as rocks and medium-sized waves are easy to avoid with minimal paddle instruction; low risk elements.
• Class III- Intermediate. This is where the real fun, and the risks, begins! Class III rapids are more technical in nature, meaning moderate to large whitewater which is capable of swamping a raft. Some large waves, holes and hydraulics may be present but can be avoided with a moderate amount of paddle training; the current is stronger and advance visual scouting of water patterns a useful practice and skill. Swimmers practicing good river technique are unlikely to be injured.
• Class IV- Advanced. Powerful currents with large rapids. The water will be turbulent and powerful with long stretches of rapids to run. Many waves and obstacles may be difficult to avoid. The route may require fast maneuvers and quick decisions and skill in gauging and scouting the best possible route through a set up rapids is important. There will be a risk of injury to swimmers and rescue skills among the group are important.
• Class V- Expert. Powerful and intense rapids with long runs and unavoidable waves and obstacles. Steep drops, dangerous hydraulics and holes may be present as may be narrow chutes. Is it is essential that all team members be experienced and that rescue skills be practiced and well-rehearsed.
• Class VI- Very difficult to impossible without injury. High risk suitable for only the most experienced and willing to accept serious risk.

In all instances, the experience level of your guide is an essential factor. Ask whether your outfitter uses a paddleboat or an oar boat for your river experience. Paddleboats require more skill of the crew as they power the boat with their paddles. Typically, the guide in a paddleboat acts as the rudder in the back of the craft. In an oar boat set-up, the guide is forward and uses his oars to navigate with the crew providing less assistance.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

“A river seems a magic thing. A magic, moving, living part of the very earth itself.”
― Laura Gilpin

Travel to create marvelous memories for you and your family or friends!

SPORTS, “AN ACTIVE VACATION”

HIKING AN TREKKING, “THE ROAD GOES ON FOREVER”

BY CLAY LARROY

It doesn't matter if you take a trip across the state line or the border, being far from home can be exciting and also a bit stressful. When considering traveling, it is important to think of the best mode of travel. Traveling by car can offer many more sights and opportunities for side trips. Traveling by train can offer a chance to relax and get some work done if they wanted. Planes can cover ground fast but don't allow much movement and one cannot get off the plane in flight. Each mode of travel has its own advantages and disadvantages to be considered. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

PLANNING

When considering hiking tours, one final consideration is preparedness. Some hiking tour operators will provide almost everything you need in terms of equipment, while others will provide little more than an itinerary and expertise. Find out what is expected of you and make sure that you know what to pack. Be aware that if you need to buy equipment for a tour, this will add to the overall cost of your trip.

Also find out whether any prior experience is needed. Some tour operators ask hikers to take courses or training. This is especially common on more rugged hikes that include more risks and physically demanding terrain. Even if no previous experience is needed, some preparation on your part will make your hiking adventure much more enjoyable. Learning about the places you will go and perusing hiking guides, travel guides, and wildlife guides, for example, will allow you to appreciate what you see on the trails.

Since hiking tours are very physical vacations, your first preparation before any trekking adventure is to get into good physical condition. Work with your doctor and tour operator to create a training schedule in the weeks leading up to the tour. Take hikes a few times a week where you live, or train in advance by running stairs or adjusting your treadmill to an incline. This will help you break in new hiking shoes and will also get your body used to a trekking workout schedule.

When getting ready for your trip, you may want to ask the tour operator whether a shuttle bus will be made available to you. Many tour operators have a bus to transport hikers between lodges and trails, to use in emergency situations, and to carry equipment and water. Find out whether you are able to place your equipment on the shuttle. If you are not, you may need to be far more cautious about how you pack your backpack, since you will have to carry it each day.

As mentioned, be sure to consult with the tour operator about what to pack and what the weather will be like. You will need hiking shoes and a back up pair, if at all possible. These shoes should be designed specifically for hiking and should be made by a reliable brand. They should have great treads for traction, a metal shank for support, and ankle support, in addition to being waterproof, light-weight, and very comfortable. Try on many pairs and choose the best quality pair with the most comfortable fit - this is not a time to try to save $50 if it means you"ll be anything less that totally confident in your shoes. Bad shoes on a hiking tour can cause great discomfort and even injury. Never break in a new pair of boots or shoes on your trip; wear these shoes while you train for as many hours as possible.

You will also need to pack high-quality socks to avoid painful blisters, shirts for layering, and light rain jackets. Look for the newest synthetic sports materials that whisk sweat away from your body. You may need mittens, hats, and cold-weather wear on some hikes, along with sunscreen, insect repellant, and sunglasses. You may also want to pack your sketch pad, notebook, or camera to record your trip - keeping in mind that you’ll be carrying it. Some hikers also like to use walking sticks, heart monitors, or pedometers.

If you are traveling outside of the country or even your immediate area for your hiking tour, ask your doctor to recommend you to a physician with travel medicine experience. Inquire about any vaccines you may need for your journey. Also ask about any water and food precautions for your destination. Depending on where you go, you may need to make special provisions to ensure that what you are eating and drinking is safe. If you are hiking at altitudes above 7,000 feet, you should discussed additional considerations with a doctor. Talking to a knowledgeable travel medicine specialist is your best way to ensure that you will relax and enjoy your active travels.

If you are leaving the country, you may need a passport and visa. It is good to arrange for these travel documents well in advance in case there are delays. You will also want to arrange for travel and health insurance to make sure that your tour is hassle-free. Finally, if you are traveling to your destination by airplane, be aware that new airport regulations may affect your ability to travel with your equipment. You may need to check much of your hiking equipment before getting on the plane.

All travel entails some risks. Trekking tours have additional risks associated with outdoor physical activity. For these reasons, you will want to work with a responsible and safety-conscious tour operator that your professional travel agent can confidently recommend. In addition, you can do many things to stay safe on your hike:

• Drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and a hat, and don’t push yourself beyond your physical limits. Even on overcast days, the sun can wreak havoc on unprepared hikers.
• Follow all the rules that your tour operator sets out for you. These rules are made for your own safety.
• Only go on hiking tours you know you can physically handle and only after approval by a qualified doctor. In most cases, the tour operator will note that you are taking the tour at your own risk, so it is your responsibility to make sure you can handle the trek.
• Respect the environment, the tour operator, your hiking companions, and anyone you meet on the trip. Be friendly and do not go off by yourself, away from approved hiking areas. Do not pick up or remove plants or animals from their natural environment. Do not litter. Strive to leave the environment just as you found it, or better.
• Use good equipment - especially good hiking shoes. If your tour operator offers you equipment, make sure it is safe and in good condition. If you buy your own, make sure you buy the correct equipment from a qualified store. Get a salesperson to help you.
• As with all travel, good trip interruption and medical insurance is highly recommended. Remember that your own medical insurance policy may not cover you for out-of-country travel.

You’ll find hiking tours out there for almost every trekking enthusiast and every beginner. If you are a seasoned expert, or if you can picture yourself getting in the best possible shape over your next holiday while on an adventure of a lifetime, a trekking tour is an exciting way to hit the road.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Hiking in undiscovered places is a lot of fun.

Karolina Kurkova

 Experience life travel with those you love!

        

SPORTS, “AN ACTIVE VACATION”

HIKING AN TREKKING, “THE ROAD GOES ON FOREVER”

BY CLAY LARROY

A vacation can soothe the soul and leave you renewed, refreshed, and invigorated. Whether you are just now starting to plan your next vacation, or are merely looking for travel ideas and suggestions, read all the articles about travel. So take away some of the stress of making travel plans, and get started thinking about the fun and relaxing times you will soon be having on your next trip! When you are ready to plan an exciting vacation contact me!

 

If you love nature and enjoy getting a great workout, a hiking tour may be for you. Hiking tours, or trekking tours as they are sometimes known, are about much more than just walking. The most intensive treks can take days to complete, and they take you to exciting places that can only be reached by foot. With trekking tours, you can explore caves, remote mountain peaks, and villages seen by only a handful of tourists - you can go just about anywhere.

Trekking tours are extremely flexible and versatile, allowing you to choose the style of hiking, sights you want to see, and intensity of the exercise. Not surprisingly, hiking tours provide an excellent way to improve your fitness - a 130-pound person carrying a 20-pound backpack can burn more than 1,300 calories on a four-hour hike. Trekking improves the condition of your heart, immune system, and bone density while building endurance and strength. Being outdoors in clean air provides you with the oxygen you need to feel great, and the natural scenery can clear your mind and reduce stress.

All that and a vacation too! March on.

The experience of a trekking tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy the outdoors. It is a great travel opportunity for anyone who wants a unique, active vacation. Hiking tours vary widely, and travelers can choose destinations, companions, and intensity levels to custom-create the vacation of their dreams.

Many trekking tours involve destinations in remote areas rich in wildlife or interesting scenery, taking place on mountain trails, along oceans, or deep within forests. Trips also vary widely based on travelers they attract: you"ll find tours for younger hikers, older hikers, beginning and advanced hikers, and hikers who enjoy different lifestyles. Since you will be spending a lot of time with your travel companions, it is imperative to select a tour that includes hikers you will be able to get along with easily.

It’s also important to select an itinerary on par with your skill and fitness level. Hiking tours range from fairly low-impact trails to very intense experiences that may include rock climbing and other extreme sport opportunities. To stay safe and happy, choose a trip that’s challenging but won’t overwhelm you (or your legs).

If you want to create your own hiking tour, a travel consultant can help and can also ensure that you get the hiking experience you want on your specific budget. In many cases, a travel consultant will do much of the preliminary research for you, weeding through the details of tours and destinations so that you have all of the information you need to plan a hiking vacation. A qualified travel consultant helps you decide what you are looking for in a hike and will explain all of the options available, especially regarding the quality of tour companies, packages that may or may not include transportation and lodging, and other travel logistics. After talking with a travel consultant, you will be far more knowledgeable about the opportunities available and will become aware of the best values.

Hiking tour operators can offer guides, routes, logistical support, itineraries, equipment, accommodations, emergency help, outdoor savvy, professional experience, safety precautions, food, and additional activities. Some hiking tour operators offer all of these features, while others may provide only basic emergency aid and itineraries. When selecting a company, work with your agent to be sure you have access to the amenities you need, safety assistance, and guides with hiking experience that exceeds your own.

When planning a trekking tour, you’ll need to decide where you want to go. This can be difficult, because you’ll find hiking tours available on every continent. You can hike through jungles, forests, volcanoes, mountains, swamps, and coastal areas. You can even find urban hiking tours that take you to city ruins or major city attractions.

If you have trouble deciding on a destination, you could start by asking yourself what you want to see while you hike on vacation. Some tour operators have itineraries offering spectacular bird watching, rare plant hunts, prehistoric caving, or ocean walks. You can also choose a tour based on the activities it supports: some trekking tours cater specifically to photography enthusiasts, history buffs, artists, or spiritual exploration. Some even offer access to extreme sports like white water rafting and mountain biking - in addition to hiking. Choosing a theme will help you narrow your options.

Once you decide where you want to go, learn everything you can about the destination(s). Ask your travel consultant for information or assistance in researching details about climate, elevation, altitude, and terrain. Also find out how much hiking you will do each day. Depending on what you find out, you may need additional equipment or training to prepare you for the rigors of a hike. If you are hiking at high altitudes, for example, you may need extra conditioning and a visit to the doctor to ensure that your body can take the extra stress. If you will be hiking along slippery trails, you may need to purchase extra-grip boots. The company you eventually select should offer tips and lists for you to follow when preparing and packing.

When considering hiking tours, look closely at food, accommodations, and other factors that impact your non-trekking time. Your tour operator may have chosen specific lodgings or camp sites. Inquire about all of the hotels, B&B’s or camping grounds where you will be staying. Similarly, the tour operator’s choice of food and preparation methods are important, especially if you are a vegetarian or traveling in a foreign country. If you have any special needs or requirements for lodging or food, make sure the tour can accommodate those needs by informing your travel consultant early on in the booking process. Find out exactly what costs the tour price covers and if there are additional costs you’ll need to cover on the hike. If you must take cash, remember to carry it on you at all times.

Before signing up for any trekking tour, ask about the potential group size. Tour operators may sign up small parties of less than 6 people, or they may choose to take large groups of 30 or more. Some tour operators operate private hikes for just one person or for friends and family. Usually, the larger the tour group, the lower the cost of the tour package. Larger groups may result in less interaction with the leader, but they may also hikers to break off into smaller groups to achieve a more intimate experience. If you are going on a trekking vacation mainly to see wildlife, keep in mind that larger groups create more noise and so can scare off animals and birds, so choose accordingly.

Most people who take hiking tours are friendly and physically fit. Age ranges are typically from 18 to about 60, although tours for older hikers are available. Hiking tours that offer extreme conditions or extreme sports tend to draw younger hikers. Some tours allow hikers to bring children, although many do not, so check before booking.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Hiking is the best workout!... You can hike for three hours and not even realize you're working out. And, hiking alone lets me have some time to myself.

Jamie Luner

 
Experience life by traveling with friends and family!

        

SPORTS, “AN ACTIVE VACATION”

GOLF VACATIONS “KEEPING YOUR EYE ON THE BALL”

BY CLAY LARROY

A vacation can soothe the soul and leave you renewed, refreshed, and invigorated. Whether you are just now starting to plan your next vacation, or are merely looking for travel ideas and suggestions, read all the articles about travel. So take away some of the stress of making travel plans, and get started thinking about the fun and relaxing times you will soon be having on your next trip! When you are ready to plan an exciting vacation contact me!

If you are traveling internationally, remember to leave time to acclimate to time zone changes. The day of arrival in Europe from the United States is often a gray haze of addled thinking and tired reflexes - not the optimal conditions for a game of golf. Leaving a day or two for sightseeing and relaxing will help assure that your golf game will be up to par, or as close as you can get, anyway.

Before leaving home, you will want to know whether the course you’ll be playing has any restrictions. More popular courses often require a particular handicap of players, and at times, a home course letter of recommendation. Such courses might also specify a maximum amount of time allotted to complete a round - something to consider, especially if the course does not allow golf carts. These restrictions ensure that play is continuous and enables more golfers to enjoy the course. When playing a new course, it’s a good idea to arrive early and familiarize yourself with its layout. Allowing time for practice on the range and putting greens should help you adjust to the course more quickly.

Do remember to take into account your destination’s climate. When traveling to the U.K., for instance, know that rain and wind will likely be factors in your game. When heading to the southeastern U.S., consider hurricane season. Furthermore, if a course closes because of rain, you may want to be in a destination that has other means of entertainment. But if there is nothing you would rather do on vacation besides golf, be sure to choose a destination with a mild and consistent climate.

If you’re on a budget, you have an opportunity to save money and still play some of the best courses by traveling off-season. Your travel consultant will help you plan for "low" to "high" season travel, but if you choose the low season, remember that the trade-off is almost always your weather conditions. While the savings can be substantial, if you are planning on a trip to Florida or a tropical destination, do not underestimate the heat. However, in other destinations, such as Ireland and Scotland, off-season weather can translate into wet, cold and gale-force winds. Choose wisely!

Another option would be vacationing at a golf school, which can be the perfect opportunity for players at every level who are looking to lower their scores. Many golf schools boast instructors who are PGA Tour professionals. Many also use state-of-the-art technology to analyze and enhance your golf swing. The training can be as focused or as broad as you wish, given the many schools offering multiple programs. For this reason, advance research is imperative.

In general, golf schools offer professional instruction for small groups with a particular skill level. Be sure to inquire about the school’s teacher/student ratio before you go. One-on-one lessons may also be available at an additional cost. Instruction is usually given early in the day so participants can practice what they’ve learned in the afternoon. Golf school programs vary in length from a day to a week, and program costs vary as well. Costs are generally dependent on the intensity of the instruction, travel season, and whether or not accommodation and meals are included.

As you pack, keep in mind that golf courses have strict requirements regarding attire. Golf shoes are a must, as well as collared shirts, long shorts and/or pants. Also be aware of your destination’s climate - rain gear is always advisable. Since playing with a set of clubs different from your own can hinder your game, renting clubs, though an option at many courses, is not advisable if it can be avoided. When traveling by plane, pack your clubs in a high quality travel bag, and stuff the bag with as many small items as possible (gloves, balls, tees, etc.) to conserve space in your luggage and to provide a bit of padding for your clubs. Just a note - clubs cannot be a carry-on item, so don’t even try. A hard-case is recommended for travel on airlines to prevent damage to the clubs from other bags and inevitable rough handling. As a precaution, check to see if the loss of your clubs would be covered under your homeowners insurance, or if a rider to your policy is necessary.

Travel insurance is also a good idea. Items generally covered by a typical travel insurance policy include airfare, baggage, health, and trip cancellation/interruption for up to a year. Remember that your own health insurance may not be valid abroad, so also check into that.

When you make your final plans, inquire about relevant cancellation policies, as well as any fees incurred if you change your golf schedule. And although you’re counting on sunny skies, you may want to ask about a rain refund policy.

Once your plans are set - it’s time to relax and enjoy the trip ahead. Travel on, and tee up! The green awaits.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

“If you watch a game, it's fun. If you play it, it's recreation. If you work at it, it's golf. 
Bob Hope

Travel  have fun and create wonderful memories for your family!