Latest news with #adventureTravel
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Why remote Svalbard is best explored on an expedition cruise
The world is at its quietest and most awe-inspiring in the planet's remote reaches, where wildlife reigns and the planet's stark beauty is on display. Located some 580 miles from the city of Tromsø in mainland Norway, Svalbard is an archipelago comprising nine main islands, the largest being Spitsbergen. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in this wild environment is on an expedition cruise, where you'll glide past imposing glaciers, noisy walrus colonies, cliffs dotted with sea birds and families of polar bears. In the summer months, Svalbard enjoys constant daylight — making it an ideal time to see these pristine landscapes in all their glory. Here are five reasons to go on an expedition through this otherworldly archipelago. For any visitor to Svalbard, the chance to see the King of the Arctic in his natural habitat is the stuff of wildlife-spotting dreams. Roughly 3,000 polar bears call Svalbard home — more than the human population here — and as the largest of all the bear species, there's a high chance of spotting one of these mighty carnivores from a ship or tender. Polar bears are often seen navigating ice floes, stalking birds perched on cliffs or paddling alongside desolate beaches. These bears can disappear out of sight as quickly as they appear, so having an eagle-eyed guide makes all the difference. The chalk-white humps of belugas swimming in a procession; the breach of a huge humpback; or the tall fluke of a sperm whale slowly dropping below the ocean's surface, signalling the start of a deep dive — these are just a few of the wondrous wildlife moments you may encounter while exploring Svalbard. This Arctic landscape is where hundreds of walruses gather on rocky beaches to snort out a chorus, while herds of reindeer forage for moss along the tundra. Elsewhere, you can spot seals warily navigating the sea ice, or ogle thousands of sea birds — including guillemots, glaucous gulls and fulmars — nesting on vertical cliffs. During the summer months in Svalbard, when the North Pole is angled closest to the sun, the archipelago experiences perpetual daylight. The sun never quite dips below the horizon, casting a pink hue across the sky from dusk until morning. This phenomenon, known as the midnight sun, only adds to the wonder of travelling through these islands. You may lose track of time in the brightness of near-constant daytime, but this means any moment offers the chance to take in the astonishing scale of a glacier or watch as a whale exhales plumes of breath into the sky. Naturalists, marine biologists, geologists and experienced expedition staff are the human elements who make an adventure to Svalbard exceptional. The most fulfilling journeys through this archipelago bring the region's history, landscapes, marine life and conservation efforts to life through onboard lectures and presentations. On an expedition here, you are likely to have the opportunity to mingle with staff and ask them questions to develop a deeper understanding of this distinctive dot on the map. Journeying around Spitsbergen (the only inhabited island in the archipelago) feels much like moving through a documentary of your own making. This is where the Arctic's colour palette is most vibrant, visible in the dark granite seams of snow-topped mountain peaks, the glaciers that appear to glow turquoise and the steely blues of rippling ocean waves. Former whaling stations and hunting cabins made of wood and stone mark a history of human habitation — but it's the enormous whale bones lining the shore that are the most striking reminders of our past. This is paid content for Trailfinders. It does not necessarily reflect the views of National Geographic, National Geographic Traveller (UK) or their editorial subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
Forbes
6 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
How To Sail In The Tropics—When You're Not A Sailor Yourself
Off the island of Raiatea in Tahiti, an impossibly blue bay sits empty save for a single sailing catamaran. It anchors on the sandy bottom, against a wildly scenic backdrop of soaring mountains draped in jungle. The occupants of this custom yacht charter can fill their afternoon however they see fit: snorkel off the back of the boat in nearby coral, swim, lounge in the sun with a cocktail, practice yoga on deck, motor to shore in the boat's dinghy to hike, or read a book inside the plush cabin—all of it crowd-free. This is the stuff adventure travel dreams are made of. And the people aboard didn't even have to master the craft of sailing themselves to get to experience it. A captain handles the sailing and navigation along a custom route, and a chef handles all meal preparation. These travelers are part of a growing trend of non-sailors opting for ocean-based vacations. Travelers increasingly want more personalized, sustainable, and adventurous travel experiences, and there's little that fits that bill more than sailing on your own custom itinerary. Sailing tourism can be a new way to experience a place for people who otherwise don't have the skills to make that experience happen on their own. It also holds the delicious luxury of privacy. Hotspot destinations in French Polynesia, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean can often feel overcrowded on traditional travel itineraries, from hotels and restaurants to tour operators for snorkeling, diving, and wildlife watching. But sailing on your own private adventure yacht charter represents the ultimate serenity and freedom. Marc Pedrol, Global Chief Marketing Officer for Dream Yacht, which offers yacht charters worldwide, explains that when the sailing charter industry started in the 1960s, charters from the few professional charter companies were largely reserved for the rich. Most were booked by avid sailors who could sail the boats themselves, and even those had limited availability. 'Advances in boat building technology, the internet, and globalization led to rapid growth in the industry by the 2000s,' Pedrol said. 'Since its beginnings, Dream Yacht was one of the pioneers in making ocean-based vacations accessible for non-sailors. First through skippered and fully crewed charters on private yachts and then through other more social models, like our cabin cruises, where you have a private ensuite double cabin on board one of our sailing catamarans that you share with like-minded travelers.' Dream Yacht has been seeing increasing demand for this vacation model—so much so that it now offers twenty-three different itineraries in twelve countries around the world, with plans to add others. For U.S. travelers, the Caribbean and Bahamas are good 'starter' destinations thanks to their proximity to the States—and, of course, their natural beauty, rich culture, and coveted climate. But Dream Yacht has also seen an increasing interest in yacht charters for more exotic locations, 'where sailing on a more organized experience provides confidence and more depth in the exploration of the destinations,' Pedrol said. He cites Thailand, the Seychelles, and French Polynesia as destinations that have seen a significant increase in bookings in recent years. There's not much that compares with watching the sun set over the sea from the deck of a sailboat. If the romance of sailing through the tropics has always appealed, but you don't know the first thing about sailing, a custom private yacht charter might just be your next adventure travel vacation.
Globe and Mail
26-05-2025
- Globe and Mail
Phinisi Trip Indonesia Launches 3D2N Komodo Tour Package, Offering an Unforgettable Adventure
Phinisi Trip Indonesia introduces an exclusive 3D2N Komodo tour package, offering travelers a unique adventure to explore Komodo National Park. With the luxury of a traditional Phinisi boat, the tour blends nature, culture, and relaxation for an unforgettable experience. Labuan Bajo, Indonesia - May 26, 2025 - Phinisi Trip Indonesia, a renowned tour operator, is proud to announce the launch of its 3D2N Komodo Tour Package. This all-inclusive tour promises an exciting and immersive adventure in one of the world's most sought-after destinations, Komodo Island. With a blend of scenic hikes, snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences, the tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Komodo National Park aboard a traditional Phinisi boat. The Komodo Boat Trip 3D2N caters to all types of travelers, from adventure seekers to nature lovers, providing a perfect balance between outdoor exploration and luxurious onboard experiences. Komodo Island Tour – A Unique Opportunity for Adventure Located between Sumbawa and Flores in East Nusa Tenggara, Komodo Island is home to the famous Komodo dragons and diverse wildlife. The island is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Komodo National Park, a hotspot for biodiversity, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore both land and sea. The Phinisi Trip Indonesia 3D2N Komodo tour combines breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, and cultural richness, all within a meticulously designed itinerary. Tour Highlights: Day 1: Snorkeling at Kelor Island: Enjoy a relaxing swim with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Sunset at Kalong Island: Experience the awe-inspiring spectacle of thousands of fruit bats flying at sunset. Day 2: Trekking on Komodo Island: Encounter Komodo dragons in their natural habitat on a guided trek. Pink Beach: Unwind on one of the world's most beautiful beaches with its unique pink sand, ideal for snorkeling. Manta Point: Swim alongside majestic manta rays at one of Indonesia's most popular diving spots. Day 3: Padar Island Sunrise Trek: Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the island's rugged landscape and contrasting colored beaches. Return to Labuan Bajo to wrap up the journey. Phinisi Trip Indonesia Delivers Unique, High-End Adventures at Sea Phinisi Trip Indonesia stands out for offering personalized, immersive, and luxury-filled experiences. The traditional Phinisi boat, known for its sleek design and high comfort, serves as a mobile boutique hotel. Onboard, travelers enjoy private cabins, gourmet meals, and open-air decks to witness Komodo's scenic beauty from the comfort of their vessel. Authentic Traditional Phinisi Boat: Experience the elegance and functionality of the handcrafted wooden Phinisi boat. Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides ensure a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience. All-Inclusive Experience: The package includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities, with additional options such as diving or drone permits. Sustainability and Responsible Tourism Phinisi Trip Indonesia is committed to preserving the beauty of Komodo and surrounding islands. The tour promotes responsible tourism by respecting nature and wildlife. Travelers are encouraged to adhere to guidelines, such as not touching wildlife and sticking to designated trails, to ensure that the natural environment remains pristine for future generations. Booking and Further Information The 3D2N Komodo tour package is now available for booking through Phinisi Trip Indonesia's website. Travelers can easily browse available dates, select preferred options, and book the tour online for a seamless experience. 'Phinisi Trip Indonesia offers travelers the opportunity to experience the magic of Komodo in the most authentic way,' said the Phinisi Trip Indonesia CEO. 'With our Phinisi boat, we ensure a luxurious, unforgettable journey that combines adventure, nature, and comfort, all while respecting the environment and supporting sustainable tourism.' About Phinisi Trip Indonesia Phinisi Trip Indonesia is the leading agency specializing in luxury travel experiences aboard traditional Indonesian Phinisi boats. The company offers a variety of adventure and sightseeing tours, catering to families, couples, solo travelers, and groups seeking unique and memorable experiences in Indonesia's most picturesque destinations. For more information, visit: Media Contact Company Name: Phinisi Trip Indonesia Contact Person: Admin Email: Send Email Phone: +6281196003034 Address: 18 Office Park Building 21th Floor Unit C, Jl. TB Simatupang 18, RT.2/RW.1, Kebagusan, Kec. Ps. Minggu, Kota Jakarta Selatan City: Jakarta 12520 State: Daerah Khusus Ibukota Country: Indonesia Website:
Zawya
20-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Armenia charts responsible tourism growth, eyes investments
Armenia is positioning tourism as a key pillar of economic development, with plans to expand infrastructure, diversify source markets, and promote sustainable practices, according to the Chairman of Armenia's Tourism Committee. 'Our population is only 3 million but we have big plans to grow tourism,' Lusine Gevorgyan told Zawya Projects, adding that the country welcomed 2.2 million international tourists in 2023. She noted that efforts are underway to upgrade travel infrastructure and enhance service quality across the sector. 'Our focus is not on mass tourism, but rather on attracting conscious travellers who value Armenia's natural and cultural assets,' Gevorgyan said. In addition to ATM 2025 in Dubai last month, the country has participated in global expos such as FITUR in Madrid and ITB Berlin to promote tourism. At ITB Berlin, Armenia received recognition as the Best Adventure Destination for 2025 at ITB. Beyond adventure travel, Armenia is leveraging its Christian heritage, gastronomy, and traditional crafts to attract visitors. It is also promoting medical tourism by highlighting the affordability and quality of care available in local clinics. With festivals throughout the year, the tourism committee has set its sights on festival tourism. 'The committee is supporting 12 festivals this year, which includes the Yerevan Wine Festival which attracted more than 100,000 people last year,' Gevorgyan said. While Russia is the key source market, accounting for 40 percent of tourist, last year saw increase in tourist numbers from France, Germany, and the GCC countries. Engagement is expanding with India, Kazakhstan, and China, with steps toward easing visa procedures and strengthening diplomatic ties. To attract foreign investment, the government has introduced infrastructure support in terms of roads, power and water and cashback incentives for qualified tourism developments. Successful projects such as the Myler Winter Resort in Aragats demonstrate investor interest, the chairman said. With rising tourist arrivals, workforce training is a priority, according to the Chairman. 'Two new hospitality schools are scheduled to open in 2024 in Dilijan and Gyumri. The tourism committee will make regional training programmes will cover service, sustainability, and hospitality education programmes in 10 regions,' she noted. Looking ahead, the Tourism Strategy 2026–2030, which is currently being prepared, will guide long-term sector development. The plan includes sustainable tourism, targeted market expansion in Asia and the Middle East, and popular destinations modeled on global benchmarks like Dubai. 'A UAE-Armenia investment forum is scheduled for later this year in Yerevan,' she disclosed. Gevorgyan emphasised Armenia's commitment to preserving the environment and local culture. Steps include training licensed guides, sensitising hotels and businesses to importance of conservation, promoting waste management, encouraging eco-accommodations, and integrating tourism into community-based development. 'We aim to grow tourism responsibly—supporting the economy while safeguarding Armenia's heritage,' the chairman concluded. (Writing by SA Kader; Editing by Anoop Menon) (
Travel Daily News
08-05-2025
- Travel Daily News
Peculiar bucket list: Try these unusual tourist activities
Whether you're snorkeling between continents, camping with orcas, or learning to surf a city river, these unconventional tourism activities promise memories that are as unique as they are unforgettable. Unconventional tourism is on the rise, as more travelers seek experiences that go beyond the ordinary. While iconic landmarks and classic destinations will always have their place, there's a growing desire for adventures that are immersive, surprising, and deeply memorable. From sleeping in the wild to exploring hidden urban corners, here are ten of the best unconventional tourism activities everyone should desire to try at least once in their lifetime. But if you are on a look out for Tong its platform, check out GameZone. Play traditional Tongits go to unusual Tongits card game version available in GameZone casino platform. Visit GameZone online now! 1. Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates in Iceland Imagine swimming in crystal-clear glacial water, suspended between two continents. In Thingvellir National Park near Reykjavik, Iceland, you can snorkel or scuba dive in the Silfra fissure, a crack between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The water is so pure that visibility can reach over 100 meters, and the sensation of floating between continents is truly otherworldly. This adventure combines geology, natural beauty, and a sense of awe that few other experiences can match. 2. Camping with Orcas on Vancouver Island For wildlife lovers, few things compare to the thrill of waking up to the sight and sound of orcas surfacing just offshore. On Vancouver Island's Johnstone Strait, you can camp on remote beaches with ancient forests behind you and the Pacific Ocean in front. Here, over 200 resident orcas pass by each summer, offering an intimate and unforgettable wildlife experience. Fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to the possibility of spotting a pod of killer whales from your tent. 3. Mountain Biking to the Roof of the World in Tibet If you crave high-altitude adventure, consider mountain biking in Tibet. Cycle past ancient monasteries, remote villages, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas, including views of Mount Everest. The challenging climbs and exhilarating descents are matched only by the spiritual atmosphere and the warmth of the locals. This journey is not just a physical feat but a cultural immersion into one of the world's most mystical regions. 4. Surfing a River Wave in Munich Surfing in a landlocked city? In Munich, Germany, the Eisbach River creates a standing wave in the heart of the Englischer Garten, drawing surfers from around the world. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a curious beginner, riding the Eisbach Wave is a unique way to experience the city's vibrant urban culture. It's proof that adventure can be found even where you least expect it. 5. Climbing to Sky-High Monasteries in Greece The monasteries of Meteora, perched atop towering rock pillars in central Greece, are among the most spectacular sights in Europe. The Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada) is especially challenging to reach, requiring a trek up steep stairs and a cable car ride across a dramatic chasm. The reward? Panoramic views, centuries-old spiritual history, and the quiet serenity of a place truly 'suspended in air.' This is a pilgrimage for both the body and the soul. 6. Forest Bathing in Japan The Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is a mindful way to reconnect with nature. Unlike hiking, forest bathing is about slowing down, being present, and absorbing the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest. In places like Tokyo's Akigawa Valley, you can lay beneath the trees, listen to birdsong, and let the stresses of modern life melt away. Science shows this practice can improve well-being, making it a must-try for those seeking relaxation and renewal. 7. Exploring Underground Quarries and Secret Caves Cities like Bordeaux, France, offer a subterranean world few tourists ever see. Venture into underground quarries where limestone was once extracted to build historic monuments, or explore secret caves that reveal a city's hidden history. These eerie, beautiful spaces offer a completely different perspective and a sense of adventure that's both mysterious and educational. 8. Kayaking Through a City at Night See a city from a new angle by kayaking its rivers or canals after dark. In Bordeaux, night-time kayak trips through the Port of the Moon let you paddle beneath illuminated bridges, learning about maritime history from local guides. The city's lights reflected on the water create a magical atmosphere, turning a simple paddle into an unforgettable urban adventure. 9. Participating in Local Foraging and Cooking Workshops Travel is about tasting as much as seeing. Join local foragers in places like Bordeaux's Parc aux Angéliques to hunt for edible wild plants, then learn to cook them in a traditional kitchen. These workshops connect you to local food heritage, deepen your appreciation for the environment, and offer a deliciously hands-on way to experience a new culture. 10. Attending Exotic Festivals and Cultural Immersions Sometimes the most unconventional adventures are found in the heart of a crowd. Attend unique festivals like India's Holi Festival, where you'll be showered in colored powders, or Nevada's Burning Man, a temporary city of art and radical self-expression in the desert. Participating in such events allows you to celebrate traditions, meet people from around the world, and create memories that last a lifetime. Why Choose Unconventional Tourism? Unconventional tourism isn't just about novelty; it's about deeper engagement. These activities invite you to step outside your comfort zone, learn new skills, and connect with people and places in ways that traditional sightseeing can't offer. Whether you're seeking adrenaline, tranquility, or cultural insight, these experiences challenge you to see the world through fresh eyes. Tips for Unconventional Travelers Do your research: Some activities require permits, guides, or special equipment. Respect local customs and environments: Unconventional doesn't mean inconsiderate. Always be mindful of your impact. Embrace the unknown: Flexibility and curiosity are your best companions on any unusual adventure. Share your stories: Inspire others by sharing your experiences and supporting sustainable, responsible tourism. Conclusion The world is full of extraordinary adventures waiting just beyond the usual tourist trail. Whether you're snorkeling between continents, camping with orcas, or learning to surf a city river, these unconventional tourism activities promise memories that are as unique as they are unforgettable. So next time you plan a trip, dare to desire something different-the world's most remarkable experiences are waiting for you off the beaten path.
