Latest news with #trekking
Globe and Mail
5 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Manaslu Adventures digital transformation with support from EU's Última Milla program
The adventure travel company specializing in trekking and nature-based experiences overhauls its technology infrastructure to scale internationally and enhance customer experience. Madrid, Spain - 25 Jul, 2025 - Manaslu Adventures, a leading Spanish travel agency specializing in trekking and nature-focused adventures, has launched a major digital transformation initiative with support from the European Union's Última Milla grant program (Next Generation EU). The project marks a strategic move to expand internationally—particularly into the U.S. and U.K. markets—by leveraging cutting-edge technology to streamline operations and personalize the travel experience. Backed by an investment of more than €280,000, the initiative includes the launch of a next-generation website, mobile app, AI-powered tools, CRM integration, and a revamped booking system. The digital transformation is designed to position Manaslu Adventures as a premier provider in the growing global market for sustainable and immersive outdoor travel. 'We're building a connected and intelligent digital ecosystem that enhances how we create and deliver adventures,' said Sandra Amenedo, co-founder and Marketing Director of Manaslu Adventures. 'From remote treks in the Himalayas to tailor-made hiking experiences in the Andes, our travelers will benefit from a faster, smarter, and more personalized service—without losing the human touch.' Technology Enhancements Include: All-New Website & eCommerce Platform Built by creative agency Brandoon, the new website will feature a fully transactional booking engine, smart filters, and a catalog of curated experiences worldwide—all designed with mobile responsiveness in mind. Custom Back Office & API Integrations Developed by Envolvedge, the platform centralizes management of itineraries, suppliers, clients, and bookings in real time, while enabling seamless API connectivity between the website, CRM, and third-party channels. Traveler Mobile App (Vamoos-style) A branded mobile app will provide travelers with personalized itineraries, maps, documents, and notifications—even while offline. The app is fully synced with the company's internal systems for real-time updates. AI-Driven Personalization & Automation Manaslu is integrating artificial intelligence to automate itinerary planning, content generation, and customer service workflows—boosting scalability while maintaining operational excellence. CRM & Marketing Automation In partnership with digital consultancy The Roi Makers, Manaslu is implementing advanced CRM tools for customer segmentation, analytics, and automated remarketing. The company plans to invest €36,000 annually in digital campaigns across Google Ads and Meta platforms. Scaling Adventure Travel for the Global Market With English-language support, localized campaigns, and scalable systems, Manaslu Adventures is set to expand its reach across North America and the U.K.—two key markets where demand for active, nature-based travel continues to rise. 'Outdoor adventure travel isn't just a niche—it's a movement,' said Amenedo. 'This transformation allows us to lead that movement by combining modern tech, environmental responsibility, and deep local knowledge to craft life-changing trekking experiences.' About Manaslu Adventures Founded in 2016, Manaslu Adventures specializes in tailor-made trekking and nature-based journeys in more than 50 countries. From the Alps to the Himalayas, the agency offers group and private expeditions focused on sustainability, cultural immersion, and active discovery. Its mission is to connect people to the mountains through transformative, expertly guided travel experiences. Media Contact Company Name: Manaslu Adventures Contact Person: Press Office Email: Send Email Country: United States Website:
RNZ News
18-07-2025
- RNZ News
Thinking of trekking to Everest Base Camp? Don't leave home without this expert advice
First published on Mt Everest. Photo: Unsplash / Kabita Darlami Tourists in Kathmandu are tempted everywhere by advertisements for trekking expeditions to Everest Base Camp. If you didn't know better, you might think it's just a nice hike in the Nepalese countryside. Typically the lower staging post for attempts on the summit, the camp is still 5364 metres above sea level and a destination in its own right. Travel agencies say no prior experience is required, and all equipment will be provided. Social media, too, is filled with posts enticing potential trekkers to make the iconic journey. But there is a real risk of creating a false sense of security. An exciting adventure can quickly turn into a struggle for survival, especially for novice mountaineers. Nevertheless, Sagarmatha National Park is deservedly popular for its natural beauty and the allure of the world's highest peak, Chomolungma (Mount Everest). It is also home to the ethnically distinctive Sherpa community . Consequently, the routes to Everest Base Camp are among the busiest in the Himalayas, with nearly 60,000 tourists visiting the area each year. There are two distinct trekking seasons : spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October). High mountains require everyone to be properly prepared. Events which under normal conditions might be a minor inconvenience can be magnified in such an environment and pose a serious risk . Even at the start of the trek in Lukla (2860m), one is exposed to factors that can directly or indirectly affect one's health, especially altitude mountain sickness or unfamiliar bacteria. We interviewed 24 trekkers in May this year, as well as 60 residents and business owners in May 2023, to explore some of the safety issues anyone considering heading to base camp should be aware of. Author Heike Schanzel (right) atop the famous and much-photographed base camp rock. Photo: Heike Schanzel First, it's vital to choose goals within one's technical and physical capabilities . While the human body can adapt to altitudes of up to 5,300m, the potential risk of altitude mountain sickness can occur at only 2500m - lower than Lukla. Proper acclimatisation above 3000m means ascending no more than 500m a day and resting every two to three days at the same altitude. The optimal (though rarely followed) approach is the "saw tooth system" of climbing during the day but descending to sleep at a lower level. Residents of the Khumbu region (on the Nepalese side of Everest) are familiar with the problem of tourists not acclimatising, or not paying attention to their surroundings. As one hotel owner said, pointing to a trekker setting out: "He's going uphill and it's already late. It's going to get dark and cold soon. He won't make it to the next settlement. We have to report this to the authorities or go after him ourselves." Inexperienced trekkers should hire a local guide. Several we interviewed had needed medical evacuation, including a woman in her mid-20s who had to leave base camp after one night. She found her guides - not locals - online. But they never checked her vital signs during the trek: "[The doctors] said that I had high-altitude pulmonary edema… it was just really important to come down the elevation. And if I had tried to go higher, it probably would have been really bad." Health checks throughout the trek are imperative. This includes assessing the four main symptoms of altitude mountain sickness: headache, nausea, dizziness and fatigue. If they appear, the trekker shouldn't go higher and might even need to descend. Using a reputable local trekking agency might be more expensive, but it will help ensure safety and also familiarise the visitor with the local culture, helping avoid negative impacts on the host community . Too often, the primary goal of trekkers is a photo on the famous rock at base camp. Once obtained, many simply take a helicopter back to Kathmandu. As a helicopter tour agency owner said: "They don't want to get back on their feet. The goal, after all, has been achieved. In general, tourists used to be much better prepared. Now they know they can return by helicopter." Helicopter travel can be dangerous on its own, of course. But this tendency to view the trek as a one-way trip also affects host-guest relations and can irritate local communities . It's also important to monitor your food and drink intake and watch for signs of food poisoning. Diarrhoea at high altitudes is particularly dangerous because it leads to rapid dehydration - hard to combat in mountain conditions. Low air pressure and reduced oxygen exacerbate the condition, weakening the body's ability to recover. Also, the symptoms of dehydration can resemble altitude mountain sickness. When travelling in other climate zones or countries with different sanitary standards, there is inevitable contact with strains of bacteria not present in one's natural microbiome. A good solution is to spend a few days naturally adapting to bacterial flora at a lower altitude in Nepal before heading to the mountains. Also, try to eat the local food, such as daal bhat, Nepal's national dish. According to one hotel owner in Pangboche: "Tourists demand strange food from us - pizza, spaghetti, Caesar salad - and then are angry that it doesn't taste the way they want. This is not our food. You should probably eat local food." Most of the trekkers we interviewed during this spring season reported experiencing gastrointestinal issues, often for several days. Overall, diarrhoea-related infections are the leading cause of illness among travellers, including base camp trekkers. Studies conducted in the Himalayas show as many as 14 percent of mountain tourists contract gastroenteritis , accounting for about 10 percent of all helicopter evacuations. In the end, the commonest cause of failure or accident in the mountains is overestimating one's abilities - what has been called "bad judgement syndrome" - when the route is too hard, the pace too fast, or there's been too little time spent acclimatising. A simple solution: walk slowly and enjoy the views. * Heike Schanzel, Professor of Social Sustainability in Tourism, Auckland University of Technology; Michal Apollo, Adjunct Professor of Earth Science, University of Silesia in Katowice. - This story originally appeared on The Conversation.
BBC News
11-07-2025
- BBC News
Kent man's 2,700 mile odyssey around perimeter of England
A man from Kent has recalled adventure spanning 20 years after he completed a trek of 2,700 miles (4,345km) around the perimeter of Smith, councillor of Wingham Parish Council said he and his friend Christopher Homan came up with the "crazy idea" over a few drinks in a pub during their university Smith said they decided to go on a trekking expedition in 2003, with initial plans to just trek from Berwick-upon-Tweed to Newcastle before turning it into an odyssey. "It wasn't about ticking a bucket list, it was about being able to experience exploring the country and places I had never visited before," he said. He said some of his memorable moments included visiting the Cornish coasts, the Hull dock areas, refineries, power stations and watching migrating geese when they were at The Wash in East Anglia. Mr Smith believed he inherited his love for exploring from his father, John Smith, who was an Antarctic explorer between the 1950s to 1960s. He said the place that held the most significance to him was Sandwich Bay in Kent, as it brought back memories of the halcyon days when he had spent during his childhood. Mr Smith said: "My father and I used to go beachcombing when I was little and we would go fishing for cod at night."He said he had learned a lot from his expedition, which included handling tough situations calmly and with good humour."There were days it rained heavily when we were camping out. We were able to share a good laugh and just carry on," he added."I learnt to appreciate the present moment and every aspect of my surroundings because each place carries its own uniqueness." Because of this experience, Mr Smith says he has a habit of photographing any thing he finds interesting, such as cloud formations. Mr Smith and his friend finally completed their journey back in April, with the final leg of the journey trekking back to Berwick."I felt a sense a melancholy because it was over," Mr Smith said. "I miss the experience of being on a journey and the fact I may never visit some of those places again."
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Travel + Leisure
10-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
How to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro and What to Expect, According to a Top Travel Advisor
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is no easy feat, but with ample planning and the guidance of an experienced travel advisor, you will be well-prepared for a seamless and unforgettable adventure. As someone who has personally reached the peak and planned numerous trips for clients, I can attest to the importance of having a well-organized itinerary. So whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-time backpacker, here are some tips to ensure a flawless hike to Kilimanjaro. An intimate dining room at Elewana Arusha Coffee. Begin your journey in comfort at Arusha Coffee Lodge, a hotel located at the foot of Mount Meru and set among one of the country's largest coffee plantations. Here, visitors can relax and unwind in comfortable accommodations before heading to the mountain—setting the foundation for the perfect trip. One of the most critical elements to summiting Kilimanjaro, otherwise known as the highest mountain in Africa, is proper acclimatization. The more gradual the ascent, the greater your chances of success. That's why I always recommend choosing popular routes such as the Lemosho or Machame, which provide ample time to adjust to the altitude. For those seeking additional scenic variety, the Northern Circuit route is an excellent choice, too. It's the newest and longest route, and encircles the mountain by traveling up all of its northern slopes, offering breathtaking landscapes. When planning a trek, it is also essential to collaborate with reputable and licensed companies. That's why I work with highly trained guides and porters to guarantee my clients the utmost safety and quality of their journeys. Oxygen tanks and emergency training are available and provide peace of mind should they be necessary. Mt. Kilimanjaro seen in the distance. As you ascend Mount Kilimanjaro, anticipate an ever-changing landscape. From the lush rain forests at the base to the dramatic glaciers and views near the top, the journey is truly spectacular. Guides, porters, and chefs all work in harmony to ensure you can focus on the adventure without worrying about logistics. From expertly prepared meals to the transportation of your equipment, every detail is taken care of. The view from the verandah at Singita Sasakwa Lodge. Post summit, I recommend recovering at Gran Meliá Arusha, a hotel between the Serengeti and Kilimanjaro National Parks, with amenities like a rooftop pool or spa treatments. I also recommend extending the trip by adding a safari. Stay at Singita Sasakwa Lodge in the Serengeti, where you can enjoy a lavish safari experience with personalized game drives and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters. Finally, treat yourself to a relaxing stay at Miavana by Time + Tide in Madagascar. This exclusive island escape offers pristine beaches, luxury villas, and an opportunity to unwind after your action-packed journey. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an unparalleled experience—but it requires meticulous planning. A travel advisor can arrange every detail, from selecting reputable partners to prioritizing acclimatization. With expert firsthand knowledge, you can be confident that your journey to the summit is safe and memorable. Angela Adto Tepper is a member of Travel + Leisure's A-List and specializes in adventure and over-the-top trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Tepper by contacting her at [email protected] .
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Yahoo
'The Bolton wanderer' returns from epic trek from UK to Italian city
A Bolton wanderer has made it home from Milan after completing a 56-day trek from Manchester to the Italian city. Kai Flynn embarked on the journey in order to raise money for mental health charities , Andy's Man Club and Breaking Barriers, a Bolton charity that helps support young disabled children and adults. The 24-year-old faced gruelling mountain ranges and an allergic reaction on his way to the Lombardian capital in Northern Italy, which saw him in hospital in France. "It was just incredible," Kai said. More: Tourists on cafe-less Pendle Hill - 'We could have starved if not for mint cake' More: This coastal walk with 'beautiful views' is Lancashire's best More: 'Mesmerising' waterfall walk with 'breathtaking' views that's an hour from Bolton "I was nearly bawling in tears when I arrived in Milan." Kai came across what he described as "crazy" thunderstorms while he was crossing the Alps. (Image: Kai Flynn) He also took a more direct route, which entailed wild camping in the Jura mountains, which are a short distance north of the Western Alps along the French-Swiss border. He added: "It was surprisingly hot, and it was amazing to speak to loads of different people in the rural communities. (Image: Kai Flynn) "Everyone was so friendly, and I was speaking to people from Canada, and all across the world really. "They were obviously quite shocked when they found out why I was there and thought I was mad." The Bolton lad now wants to "walk across the world" and has his sight set on a three-year walking trip over to Asia. "I've realised this is what I'm here to do, this is my purpose," he added. Kai raised £2,200, £700 over his initial target, for mental health charities. He said: "I want to give opportunities to people and young people who haven't had the best start in life. "Whether that's clothes on their back, an Xbox, or a holiday to somewhere else in the UK. "It's important to me that those less fortunate are helped by the walks I'm doing." Back home safe and sound, the music producer's next walk is "one in the park" by comparison - a short trek from Middlebrook to Bolton town centre as part of an organised fundraiser.
