Kiteworld Magazine - 2015 Travel Guide by Kiteworld Magazine

THE 2015 KITEWORLD TRAVEL GUIDE

TRAVEL GUIDE

2015 FEATURING OVER 40 INCREDIBLE KITESURFING HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS!

WHATEVER THE CONDITIONS SEIZE THE MOMENT! F R E E R I D E

F R E E S T Y L E

THE NEW EVO SIZES

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Rider_Tom Hebert / Pic_Mario Entero

R E L AT E D F R E E R I D E / F R E E ST Y L E B OA R D S

JAIME

X-RIDE

SOLEIL

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N O R T H K I T E B OA R D I N G .C O M – MMXIV – ›CRAFTED WITH PRIDE‹

# N O R T H K I T E B OA R D I N G

THREE CHOICES

Airush sets out to define the future of lightwind riding with the 2015 6 Knots Plus series. We worked closely with our Freestyle, Wave and Race Team to design 3 all-new shapes for a lighter, faster and livelier ride in conditions from 6 knots and up!

Sizes: 6/7/8/9/10/12/14

Nick Jacobsen on the Ace 135 & FX 7 Lars Daniel Terkelsen

FREESTYLE / CROSSOVER The all new FX kite effortlessly bridges the gap between freestyle and freeride to create the perfect crossover kite. This highly responsive platform gives you the much needed power for explosive acceleration and the perfect amount of boost for huge lofty airs.

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CABRINHAKITES.COM

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014 / CONTENTS

CONTENTS

016 018 022

> > >

TRAVEL GUIDE INTRO MOST WANTED TRAVEL ACCESSORIES GET TRIM OR PREPARE TO SWIM

023 > AFRICA 024 026 028 030 038 040 042 044 048 050 052 054 056 060

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

SAL AND BOA VISTA, CAPE VERDE LANGEBAAN, SOUTH AFRICA MUIZENBERG, SOUTH AFRICA CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA WATAMU, KENYA ZANZIBAR BEL OMBRE, MAURITIUS DAKHLA, MOROCCO ESSAOUIRA, MOROCCO DAHAB, EGYPT SHARM EL SHEIKH, EGYPT EL GOUNA, EGYPT HURGHADA, EGYPT MARSA ALAM, EGYPT

WWW.KITEWORLDMAG.COM

COVER – Youri Zoon, Brazil PHOTO – Andre Magarao CONTENTS – Alberto Rondinha enjoying a fresh local welcome in Fiji PHOTO – Moon Tours

TRAVEL G UIDE

2015 FEATURIN KITESURFING G 40+ INCREDIBLE HOLIDAY DESTINAT IONS!

062 > THE AMERICAS 064 066 072 074 076 078 080 082 084 086 090 092

> > > > > > > > > > > >

NEW YORK, USA THE OUTER BANKS, NC, USA CORPUS CHRISTI, TX, USA SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, TX, USA MAUI, HAWAII, USA ICAPUI, BRAZIL ICARAIZINHO, BRAZIL PREA, BRAZIL JERICOACOARA, BRAZIL BARRA GRANDE, BRAZIL PUPUYA, CHILE LAGUNA GARZON, URUGUAY

094 > THE CARIBBEAN 096 098 102 104

> > > >

PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS CABARETE, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC DORADO BEACH, PUERTO RICO COCONUT BAY, ST. LUCIA

015

INTERNATIONAL ADVERTISING: James ‘Stan’ Stanley stan@kiteworldmag.com Danielle Gaunt dan@kiteworldmag.com

TRAVEL AGENCIES: CLUB MISTRAL www.club-mistral.com +49 (0) 881 92 54 960 KITEBOARDING CLUB www.kiteboarding-club.com +49 8677 668 6099 KITEWORLDWIDE www.kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844 919 TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489

WIND CHART INFO COURTESY:

106 > EUROPE 108 110 112 118 122 124 126 128 130 132 134

> > > > > > > > > > >

LISBON, PORTUGAL THE ALGARVE, PORTUGAL TARIFA, SPAIN COSTA BRAVA, SPAIN FLAG BEACH, FUERTEVENTURA SOTAVENTO, FUERTEVENTURA LAKE COMO, ITALY LAKE GARDA, ITALY CALABRIA, ITALY LIMNOS, GREECE ULCINJ, MONTENEGRO

135 > AUSTRALASIA 136 138 140 142

> > > >

KALPITIYA, SRI LANKA BORACAY, PHILIPPINES TAVEUNI ISLAND, FIJI PORT DOUGLAS, AUSTRALIA

144 146

> >

KITEBOARDING CRUISE CAT CHARTER IN THE BAHAMAS

147

THE JOY OF DOWNWINDERS

www.windguru.com www.windfinder.com 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D

BAR RATING: 1 = Minimal Choice 5 = Brilliant Variety

016 / EDITORIAL Kiting holidays, where the fun never ends. Noè Font, one of Brazil’s many luscious lagoons PHOTO – Toby Bromwich

TH E KITEWORLD TRAVEL GUIDE: INTRO #09: There really is nothing like kiting for successive days to learn some solid skills. Indeed, the warm weather and water help compared to what you might be used to, but it’s reliable and consistent conditions more than anything that really help you to progress. If this will be your first kiteboarding holiday, get ready to get hooked and make huge improvements that will help you s ueeze the most into your available sessions when you return home. Your mates will be impressed The spots we’ve focussed on around the world in this guide are some of the most reliable kite-friendly venues out there. There’s somewhere close to everyone, from Europe to Africa, the Americas and Caribbean to Australia and Asia. Whether you’re looking for the ideal spot for the whole family, or the most focussed

kite set-up for you and your mates to rip up each day, we’ve got you all covered. Our web of spies and local contacts have helped us provide you with up-to-date information for each place to help you decide where will be best for you (and your friends partners family). Where the information is available we’ve made wind charts so that you can see when and how windy a spot is at a glance. Our ‘at a glance’ sections at the top corner of a page allow you to uickly see ratings that we’ve given each spot for waves, flat water, suitability for learning, warm water, on-the-spot facilities and other activities. This is our ninth annual travel guide and this year we’ve included some e tra inspiration in terms of some basic e ercises for the weeks leading up to your trip to help you avoid that noodle armed and legged feeling after your first day, we’ve also highlighted some useful travel products on page

2015 18 and on page 147 we give you a nudge to try something new like a downwinder. As kitesurfers, it’s in our nature to travel and hunt out the ne t perfect spot. As in previous years, this isn’t e actly a Lonely Planet guide, it’s more a flame to ignite your desire to get out there and improve your riding in some of the best spots in the world. You deserve to treat yourself to one of these e periences... Enjoy the guide THE KITEWORLD TEAM ALSO! Also check out our brand new website with a huge focus on travel and with a special search engine to help you find the spot of your dreams, according to your riding level, preferred conditions, location or season: WWW.KITEWORLDMAG.COM

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018 / PRODUCTS / MOST WANTED

KITEWORLD’S M O S T W A N T E D ‘USEFUL TRAVEL ITEMS’ INTRO

> A FEW CHOICE ITEMS AND IDEAS TO FULLY PREP YOU UP FOR YOUR KITING HOLIDAY OF A LIFETIME

MYSTIC You’ve probably found that many travel bags are already four kilos before you’ve even loaded them up with any kite gear. Mystic have designed the Elevate Series to be as light as possible. The Elevate boardbags are made of a light weight coated nylon ripstop fabric and, although they are e tremely light, there’s no compromise in strength. If you do find that you are just a bit overweight at the check-in counter, you can remove the wheel system and take that in your carry-on luggage instead, saving you an e tra kilo Both board bags reduce to small sizes for convenient storage at your destination home. The Elevate backpack is also made from a lightweight coated Nylon ripstop fabric and has big storage compartments, vertical board straps, kite pump attachment straps, kite bar attachment straps, internal sunglasses and wallet pockets as well as waterproof zippers. The ergonomically curved back panel, wide shoulder straps and waist straps make carrying all your gear to the beach a piece of cake. www.mysticboarding.com

PROGRESSION PLAYER APP Once you’ve planned your holiday, the ne t big dilemma is what you plan to learn Don’t get caught out turning up to the beach without a clue how to land the tricks you’d like to be able to stomp. Get the Progression Player app, choose from their vast library of incredible trick videos and download to your mobile device. Progression make it easy to be able to watch and learn your moves offline, even from the most remote spots. www.progression.me

STOKED PUBLICATIONS Developed e clusively for iPad, Stoked Publications have just released a new app based on their legendary Kite And Windsurfing Guides. The Kite And Windsurfing Navigator offers the best of both worlds easy navigation and clarity via split-screen display of eBook reader and interactive map. Including first-hand information on 3,500 spots, precise GPS locations for every launch, up-to-theminute Windguru forecasts and individually configurable wind alerts. There’s also an integrated directory of useful local contacts. Find it in the app store and at www.stoked-publications.com

SEASPECS It’s no good kiting for hours and hours if you burn your eye balls to a crisp or to the point that they won’t stop watering, go all red and look like you’ve been hitting the bongs for a week. Seaspecs have been specialising in producing polarized eye protection specifically designed for watersports since kiteboarding began. Grab yourself a pair before you set off. www.seaspecs.com

019

KITE SHOW APP If you fancy something a little more lighthearted and high octane, then download the latest Kite Show apps for Android and iOS, now released as version 3.0 in association with Kiteworld. Original kitesurfing video entertainment, and all completely free. Download it now in the app store, Google Play or check out the show at www.thekiteshow.tv

KITEWORLD WEBSITE Of course we have recently launched our own new website that has handy travel search functions, allowing you to search for your perfect travel destination according to your ability, preferred riding conditions, season and location. There’s also a gear search engine that filters gear according to the type of e uipment you’re interested in, skill level and your preferred conditions. That’s just the start of the deep bo of digital joy you’ll find yourself rummaging around in. www.kiteworldmag.com

KITEWORLD MAGAZINE Why not subscribe to Kiteworld and let us deliver you the best in kitesurfing content direct to your door, computer or device every two months Specialising in the most in-depth gear reviews, insightful travel advice, techni ue tips and inspirational stories, we help you regularly escape... even if it’s just for a little while as you put your feet up. www.kiteworldmag.com

ELEVATE L I G H T W E I G H T

BOARDBAGS

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR

ELEVATE SERIES

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022 / FITNESS / MATT PEARCE / GET TRIM

GET TRIM OR PREPARE TO SWIM INTRO

> AFTER WHAT HAS PROBABLY BEEN A LONG TIME OFF THE WATER BEFORE YOUR HOLIDAY, IT’S A GOOD IDEA TO BUILD UP TO YOUR TRIP WITH SOME BASIC FITNESS EXERCISES TO AVOID ALL THE NOODLE ARMED EXHAUSTION FROM YOUR FIRST SUPER LONG SESSION THAT COULD HAMPER YOU FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK. KW’S RESIDENT FITNESS EXPERT MATT PEARCE HAS SOME HANDY TIPS TO HELP YOU MAXIMISE YOUR TIME IN THE WET STUFF AND RECOVER MUCH MORE QUICKLY WHEN YOU COME OFF IT

The good news is that while you’re not going to be built like Laird Hamilton after two weeks of training, there are a few things you can do on the lead up to (and during) your trip that will get you in better condition and increase your time on the water. PRESS-UPS

Kiting’s not all about arm strength and having shoulders like boulders. Your core strength is possibly the most important part of your kiting fitness and it’s what keeps you stable on the water (or in the air) and allows you to control the power of a kite through your harness. The stronger your core the less your arms need to work and the longer your sessions will be. Try to hold a plank three times a day for up to two minutes at a time. Check the picture for correct form. S UAT ‘TIL YOU DROP

We endlessly bang on about press-ups, but they work, can be done anywhere and anyone can do them. They’ll build upper body strength and muscular endurance and will condition your torso and arms for longer days on the water. Do as many as you can inside two minutes three times a day on the lead up to your trip. Use correct form with your back straight, make sure your chest hits the deck and your arms are fully e tended at the top. If you can’t do a standard press-up then rest your knees on the floor during the e ercise.

STRETCH OFF Reduce muscle soreness and stiffness after long days on the water by performing simple stretches after your session. Hold each stretch for 20-30 seconds at a time and don’t overstrain the muscle. Rule of thumb is that discomfort is one thing, but if it actually hurts then stop REHYDRATE AND REPLENISH It doesn’t take a sports medicine doctorate to know that long hours of physical e ertion in baking heat, possibly with a neoprene sweat suit on, surrounded by salty water will dehydrate you and burn through your body’s glycogen stores. You need to refuel the machine Glycogen can be replaced by eating and dehydration can be rectified by, unsurprisingly, drinking fluids. Eating is also key to get the proteins into your body that are necessary to repair damaged, tired muscles. Stick to lean proteins like fish, chicken and grass fed beef and uality carbohydrates such as rice and potatoes with plenty of veg for nutrients. Try to drink two to four litres of water a day to ensure you’re properly rehydrated (Sadly, two beers and a bag of crisps won’t cut it when it comes to properly refuelling )

120

WORK YOUR CORE Avoid the feeling of burning uads after long sessions on the water with unconditioned ‘desk legs’. You can avoid walking around like John Wayne by just making sure you do a little work on your lower limbs in the run-up to your trip. Do as many s uats as possible inside one minute five times a day to build-up strength in your pins Use proper form and s uat as low as possible.

Matt earce, a reserve marine, personal trainer, kitesurfing instructor and pro rider for Li uid orce writes a kitesurfing specific fitness feature in each issue of Kiteworld maga ine. ind out more and subscribe at: www.kiteworldmag.com

FITNES S

LET’S

GET

SESSION #05:

KNEE STRENGTH

WORKOUT

nees are really quite important. If they aren’t kept in good working order they can cause untold trouble in both the short term (immediately after an injury) and in the long term as you older and start get to creak when walking down the stairs.

to wait until after injury to start building bombproof knees. Prevention is easier than reconstruction and this issue’s workout is designed to show you some exercises that you can use to strengthen the knee and, hopefully, ward off potential injuries So, take a look, put in the work and reap the rewards for many more pain free years to come!

CAPTION > Matt Pearce. Winter

each leg to avoid creating a muscular imbalance (getting one really big leg!).

STEP-UPS

ninjas don’t creak

step or wall under control so you don’t put unnecessary strain on the knees.

WALL SQUATS

THE EXERCISE S:

WALKING LUNGES

You don’t have to look far before you’ll start noticing a number of hard charging freestyle pros wearing ACL braces and knee wraps. Langeree, Hadlow and Zoon three of the most prolifi c competition winners in kiteboarding history have all had pretty extensive knee injuries (and in some cases more Walking lunges than one). They have all had are a fantastic to spend lengthy way to build up your periods in rehabilitation quadriceps. to rebuild their This exercise will support knees before the knee and getting back to full strength also help to strengthen in their riding. the connective Knee injuries tissue (tendons and aren’t however ligaments) that only limited to the hold the knee together. pros, or even Simply stand solely to freestyle riders. upright with your hands An unfortunate on your hips crash in heavy waves or held out front of you. in or an awkward Take a big step landing on choppy water forward with your left foot can cause a and lower your lot of damage to the knee, body toward the floor until keeping you your left leg off the water is bent at a right for some time. angle. Your right The stronger knee should you can make your lower until it is nearly touching knees the less susceptible the floor. Then, they will be simply stand up and to injury, and repeat on the you don’t need other leg. Be sure to do an equal amount of lunges on support

PEARCE D

For more t weaking an d less crea king, Matt regular fit Pearce is b ness colum ack with h n to build is up strengt h in your k nees

LET’S E T P E A R C EG D

The beauty of this exercise increasing for hamstring strength is that it can be done anywhere you can ﬁnd a step. Do this move properly and it’s a great way to target your hamstrings (the muscles in the back of your thigh). People sometimes neglect to work on this area but strong ‘hammies’ are essential if you want to build well balanced, strong legs that will in turn strengthen and support the knee. you’re new If to this exercise then start on a smaller step and build up from there. The larger step or wall you use the more hamstring strength is brought into play. You’ll know you’re doing it right because you’ll feel it in the relevant muscle! Simply step up, raise yourself up to full height and lower yourself down onto the opposite leg. Then switch legs and carry on. Be sure to come down from the

I know we’ve included a few variations of the squat in previous workouts, but there’s a reason: they work! Squats one of the most are versatile and adaptable exercises out there and the wall squat is no exception. This particular version of the squat is particularly good if you’re trying to avoid putting extra stress on the knees through repetitive movement. It involves an isometric hold which, in layman’s terms, is a tensing of the muscles while being held in a stationary position under stress to strengthen the muscle ﬁbres. This is a great way to build strength in the area around the knees without damaging them in the process. All you need to do is put your back against a wall and slowly squat down until you’re in the lower position of the move with your knees bent at 90 degrees. Hold that position for ten seconds and then slowly raise up to the standing position.

at the knees

023

AFRICA FEATURING: CAPE VERDE SOUTH AFRICA KENYA ZANZIBAR El Gouna, Egypt PHOTO – Kiteboarding Club

MAURITIUS MOROCCO EGYPT

Watamu, Kenya PHOTO – Tribe Watersports

Kenya PHOTO – KiteWorldWide

Dakhla, Morocco PHOTO – Club Mistral Dahab, Egypt PHOTO – GP Kite

Cape Town, South Africa PHOTO – High Five

024 / AFRICA / CAPE VERDE

/ SAL AND BOA VISTA

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D

SAL AND BOA VISTA, CAPE VERDE THE LURE Two hours south of the Canary Islands and about 500 kilometres west of Senegal lie ten idyllic islands in the Atlantic that make up the Cape Verdes. Sal offers kitesurfing conditions for beginners, advanced and e pert riders with average winds of force four to five every day. Boa Vista island is a much more remote and undeveloped e perience with some incredible conditions and a few nice hotels to look after you. THE SET-UP SAL – There’s something for everyone. Side-onshore wind and small wind waves on the windward, east side of the island (Kite Beach – where Kiteboarding Club are based). Lessons also run in Santa Maria on the south coast with flat water for freestylers. In the southwestern corner of the bay there is a wave spot for e perienced riders with offshore wind. There are world-class wave spots on Sal - Ponta Preta in particular has very fast waves and can get huge. Very advanced speak to local schools and get the lowdown on plenty of other e cellent wave spots. BOA VISTA –Boa Vista has flat water and waves. Hire a 4 4 for all sorts of remote spots, but be prepared to get lost and there is no rescue cover... because there’s no one else there There are a few spots close to the main hotel and in front of the centre, including a freestyle area. Check with Sportif for all on Boa Vista. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Main season October - May. North, northeast and easterly trades blow all year strongest in winter, averaging 20 knots compared to 15 in summer. Winter is wave season but there’s nearly always some swell. Flatter water and lighter winds in summer from May - August, but the temperature can push past 30ºC 86ºF. Water temps 20 – 24 C 68 – 75ºF. On strong wind days you might need a shorty December – February. GET AROUND SAL – Santa Maria is one of the only towns on the island

PHOTO – Kiteboarding Club

ercentage of days with wind over force

knots

and the main place for tourists. Lots of cheap ta is or ‘aluguers’ - pick-up trucks with a bench in the back that transport kiters around. BOA VISTA – The vast majority of the island is a sandy desert landscape, perfect for e ploring in a 4 4. PHOTO – Club Mistral

CURRENCY Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE) 1 = 149CVE 1 = 110CVE 1 = 97CVE Shops in Sal also accept Euros, but be prepared to pay a premium of about 10 compared to paying in the local currency. ACCOMMODATION SAL – Santa Maria is small but has a good choice of hotels and accommodation. There are also several all-inclusive hotels that can be crowded with non-kiting holidaymakers, but may have good deals. BOA VISTA – Everything is near Sal Rei town centre, with a few guest houses and a few bigger resorts just outside, great for families. The rest of the island is mainly off road tracks and small, basic villages. FOOD AND DRINK SAL – Supermarkets have all you need with prices comparable to UK Europe and you’ll find lots of restaurants. A handful of bars and nightclubs are open late as the locals love to dance and party. BOA VISTA – The big hotels are all-inclusive. Otherwise Sal Rei has plenty of friendly restaurants and bars. Local lobster is a speciality. Little street lighting in the evening though. NO WIND Surfing or SUPing at many spots. Diving is also popular. Take e cursions around the island to the famous dormant volcano and grotto on Sal. AIRPORT Sal Cape Verde (SID) is serviced from all over Europe. Airport transfers take 15 minutes book through your travel agent, otherwise there are plenty of ta is. Boa Vista (BVB) has direct flights on a weekly basis from Europe and the transfer to Sal Rei is just five minutes.

THE KITEBOARDING CLUB SAL is based on Kite Beach on the east coast and they offer a uick, free shuttle service from Santa Maria for students and guests. Teaching all levels, they have over 70 kites, boards and special wave kiting gear for rental. They also offer ‘supervised kitesurfing’ to help you gain confidence. www.kiteboarding-club.com sal@kiteboarding-club.com +49 8677 668 6099 CLUB MISTRAL is on Santa Maria beach. As well as rentals and lessons for windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing and SUP, there are showers, WCs and the Atlantis restaurant with a nice bar nearby. Languages spoken by instructors English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Arabic, Creole, Turkish. www.club-mistral.com company@club-mistral.com +49-211-22970812

KITEBOARDING CLUB www.kiteboarding-club.com +49 8677 668 6099 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919 CLUB MISTRAL www.club-mistral.com +49 (0)881 92 54 960

026 / AFRICA / SOUTH AFRICA / LANGEBAAN

100 90 80

“An endless playground of butter-flat waters, with a little hike through Ostrich country to get to Shark Bay. It feels like you’re on a mini safari!”

S SI MAI, RO RIDER

70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

LANGEBAAN SOUTH AFRICA

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force knots

‘Shark Bay’ PHOTO – Kiteworld

THE LURE The ‘jewel of the west coast’, Langebaan village is situated on a beautiful lagoon, offering a huge, natural playground for sporting and nature lovers. White-sand beaches and constant cross-shore winds in the summer make this one of South Africa’s top kite spots for those looking for flat water over the challenging Atlantic waves of Cape Town, 90 minutes south. THE SET-UP The flat water freestyle heaven of Langebaan provides a contrast to the often menacing conditions 90 minutes south in Cape Town. The two main spots in Langebaan are Kleine Oostewal (Shark Bay) and Main Beach. (There is another spot downwind of Main Beach, but the wind is offshore and therefore for advanced kiters only.) Shark Bay is 300 metres south of Langebaan village and ideal for beginners with huge e panses of shallow, warm water and predominantly cross-onshore winds. (Don’t worry, the name only came from sharks of the small, harmless variety.) Main Beach is at the end of the village high street and suits intermediate and advanced riders with cross-shore winds, bumpier conditions in the middle of the channel but lovely flat sections behind the island opposite. Both spots are tidal. Low tide at Shark Bay e poses lots of beach high tide has the reverse effect, offering just a little beach for setting up. At the right time and tide it’s an incredible spot to improve your tricks in warmer water than Cape Town. In the prevailing SE winds, look for an incoming tide here for the magic to begin. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Good learning conditions from October to March. Main months November – February best December and January. Calmer conditions in the morning and then winds build, sometimes up to 40 knots in the afternoon. Temperatures average 25 C 77 F in the summer and drop in the evening when a sweater can be needed. Main beach water temperature is around 17 C 63 F in the summer, while Shark Bay can get to 24 C 75 F much warmer than elsewhere on this coast. You’ll usually need a wetsuit for Main Beach, although you can often kite in a shortie at Shark Bay.

GET AROUND Depending on where you stay you may be able to walk to Main Beach, although a hire car is highly recommended to see areas outside of Langebaan. There’s little public transport. CURRENCY South African Rand (R)- 1 = R17 1 = R13 1 = R11 Most places accept credit cards and there are ATMs in town. ACCOMMODATION Plenty of accommodation from hostels and studio apartments to lu ury family homes. Windtown has been running a few seasons and is a lu ury resort for kitesurfers right in the centre of town and just a stroll from Main Beach. There are a few hostel school combo operations like Windchasers which is superbly well-e uipped for those looking for more of a lu ury hostel-type set-up with a warm, friendly crowd, and they also have a kite house in Cape Town and run transport between the two. FOOD AND DRINK Langebaan has two supermarkets and plenty of bars and restaurants just off Main beach serving all types of food, specialising in fresh seafood. There is one nightclub a five minute drive back up the road and there’s a bar with live music on certain nights. Don’t miss the Strandloper fish restaurant for a very uni ue (and long) eating e perience. NO WIND The sights of Cape Town are just an hour back down the road. Around Langebaan there’s horse riding, fishing, sight-seeing, wine-lands, game viewing, bicycling, kayaking, pilates and yoga lessons as well as a Gary Player signature golf course. AIRPORT Cape Town international airport (CPT) is 90 minutes away. Check with your accommodation provider about transfers, although it’s recommended you hire a car to make the most of the area.

BEER R18 RESTAURANT MEAL R100 per person ACCOMMODATION R1000 double room down to R170 p.p.p.n

WINDCHASERS teach all levels from September to April. They stock a full retail shop, rent Cabrinha gear, have wireless internet, e uipment storage and hot outdoor showers. The Windchasers hostel on Main Road is beautifully e uipped with character and facilities and is open all year. Languages spoken by instructors English, German, Dutch and Spanish Accredited by IKO www.windchaserssa.com info@windchaserssa.com +27 (0) 82 079 0500

Main Beach action PHOTO – Kiteworld High street to Main Beach PHOTO – Windtown

Looking down to Main Beach PHOTO – Kiteworld

028 / AFRICA / SOUTH AFRICA / MUIZENBERG

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D

ercentage of days with wind over force

MUIZENBERG, SOUTH AFRICA THE LURE The surfing village of Muizenberg, situated between mountain and ocean, is one of Cape Town’s most southerly suburbs and just a 20 minute drive from the city centre. The water in Muizenberg is warmer than most of the other spots around Cape Town, with safe beach break waves and, like the rest of the Cape, has enviable wind statistics. THE SET-UP Muizenberg offers a large stretch of uncrowded beach that is several kilometres long and swept by consistent, cross-onshore winds. When the wind does not blow, the beach break waves and shallow water of Muizenberg make it an ideal spot for all levels of surfers, stand-up paddle surfers and bodyboarders with small to medium size waves breaking close to shore and in deeper water. Kitesurfers and stand-up paddle boarders head to Sunrise Beach. Consistent wind strengths through the day, a typical kitesurfing summers day sees about 15-18 knots of wind in the morning, picking up progressively to 25-30 knots in the afternoon. Due to a uni ue thermal effect and because of its pro imity to the Cape of Good Hope, a moderate on-shore wind blows into Muizenberg on afternoons when no wind is forecast. Less kitesurfers and with much more riding space than some of the kite spots to the north of the city, around the Blouberg area. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Air temperature average 25 – 30 C 77 - 86 F during the summer months. The Cape Doctor wind can blow five to seven days a week, gradually picking up through the day and often still very strong in the evenings. Water temperatures average around 16 C 60 F, so you’ll need a spring suit. GET AROUND You could kite close to your accommodation in Muizenberg and get away without hiring a car, but there’s so much more to see and do. Do download the Uber ta i app and get yourself set up on there, it’s huge in Cape Town and helps when you want to drink and not drive Muizenberg is accessible by train from Cape Town main station. CURRENCY South African Rand (ZAR) - 1 = ZAR18

1 = ZAR13

knots

US 1 = ZAR11 There are lots of ATMs and credits cards widely accepted. ACCOMMODATION This area has it all, from budget surf hostels, to bouti ue bed and breakfasts and hotels to big houses perched on the hillside with amazing views.

BEER R15 RESTAURANT MEAL R75-150 ACCOMMODATION R300 - R1000

FOOD AND DRINK Muizenberg offers uni ue nightlife vibes as it’s a little surfer kitesurfer town. Kalk Bay is roughly a ten minute walk away where you’ll find wild parties with restaurants and bars like Polana and Brass Bell. Both are cool places to meet local and international watersport enthusiasts. Authentic people with authentic parties, but still with a very African vibe You’ll find all the conveniences too, and in the harbour there’s a fresh fish market, too.

SURFSTORE AFRICA teach a full range of comprehensive kitesurfing courses in safe spots, away from the crowds and in nice, shallow and flat, fresh water at Zeekoevlei. Using Ozone kites, Surfstore Africa offers kitesurfing courses fit for all budgets and also operate a full retail store for all your e uipment needs as well as providing advice on conditions and spots. Surfing, SUPing and kite buggying are also options. Accredited by IKO www.surfstore.co.za info@surfstore.co.za +27 21 788 5055

NO WIND Muizenberg was one of the original centres for surfing in South Africa and its surf breaks are some of the best to learn on you will come across. Apart from being the only surf spot with warm water in Cape Town, Muizenberg also offers beach breaks suitable for all levels. There is nearly always something to get out on. Shallow water and small waves near the beach are ideal for learning on, while the waves on the outside offer medium sized waves for intermediate progression and beyond. If the wind is light, you can still get your kite fi by going kite buggying - the constant onshore wind that sweeps the long uncrowded stretch of beach between Muizenberg and Strandfontein allows you to cruise for kilometres in light winds on a kite buggy. In strong wind conditions, the spot allows for racing on the hard sand at low tide. Alternatively there are a lot of trips running from Muizenberg and Hout Bay to take you out into the ocean to see the whales, seals and dolphins. The city of Cape Town and its surrounding areas and wine farms are breathtaking and can make up an entire holiday themselves. AIRPORT Cape Town International airport (CPT) is about 30 minutes away. Check with your accommodation providers or with Surfstore Africa for transfers or to arrange a car hire ready for you at the airport when you arrive.

Lots of space, plenty of kickers and nice flat water inbetween the sections PHOTOS – Kiteworld

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030 / AFRICA / SOUTH AFRICA / CAPE TOWN

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

CAPE TOWN,

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force knots

SOUTH AFRICA “Choose your conditions from 30 spots within an hour or two and shred alongside top pros”

KITEWORLD

THE LURE Consistently the spot of choice for some of the world’s best riders from October to March, it’s also the home of the Red Bull King of the Air. If you want to jump high, the wind is unbeatable and the area boasts 30+ kite spots, offering a huge variety of riding, from flat water to five or si metre waves. Also, unlike most good kite spots, one of the world’s most vibrant cities is a short drive away offering endless entertainment, from the stunning wine lands and the culture of the city for the adults, to the parks and wildlife centre visits with the kids. THE SET-UP If you’re a pro and your job re uires wind, you’ll be banging in the overtime around here. Most kiting is in the northern part of the Cape Peninsula and, depending on the day, you can find everything from flat waters, to bump and jump kickers to big waves. Driving north from the city, Sunset Beach is the first spot to benefit from the consistent southeaster Cape Doctor

wind system kicking in. The wind is slightly crossoffshore there and can be a little fickle on the inside, but it’s the first place you look for wind. Waves feature here and at all the ne t spots... A little further around the bay you come to Dolphin Beach (Table View), popularly known as Kite Beach, featuring cross-shore winds in the southeaster. Many kiters stay in Table View and this is the area’s main beach with special views across the bay to its namesake mountain. This is a long open stretch of beach of several kilometres and downwinders from Sunset Beach, along here to Doodles restaurant at the far end of Table View are very popular. However, many often carry their downwinder on round a section of rocks to Big Bay. ‘Big Bay’ (Red Bull King of the Air spot) comes ne t with a pleasant grassy area ne t to the beach with bars, resturants and shops. A lot of lu ury residential development can now be found here too, and this is a hugely popular kite spot as there are more facilities here to keep the family amused while you kite. This

Cape Point PHOTO – Kiteworld

Kite Beach PHOTO – Bianca Asher Li uid Force

032 / AFRICA / SOUTH AFRICA / CAPE TOWN

BEER R15 RESTAURANT MEAL R75-150 ACCOMMODATION R300 - R1000

BEST KITEBOARDING AFRICA are located on the beach front in table view, ne t to the popular coffee shop, Carlucci’s. Teaching all levels, seven days a week, they also have lots of demo gear on offer and a shop stacked with Best and Dakine gear. Surf, SUP rentals and demo days also run. Languages spoken by instructors English and Afrikaans. www.bestkiteboardingafrica.com info@bestkiteboardingafrica.com +27 (0) 21 556 2765 CABRINHA ZA Based in Big Bay at the Eden on the Bay shopping centre on the beachfront. Lessons run all year for all levels, beginners to high wind ripping. As importers of Cabrinha, NP and RRD e pect the full range of new 2015 gear and a massive range to demo too. Accessories, spares and repairs always onhand and a big team in the shop. GoPros, headphones, clothes JP, RRD and Corban SUP, basically whatever you can think of, including bike rentals. www.cabrinha.co.za donovan@cabrinha.co.za +27 (0) 21 554 1729

Evening kite loop session PHOTO – Bianca Asher Li uid Force

spot is also busy with windsurfers in ‘Big Bay’ (which is actually uite a small bay within two sets of rocks, and most kiters now ride 150 yards or so down the beach and beyond the downwind rocks at ‘Karmers’ which can feature a nice clean wave and another long beach. The wind is cross cross-onshore from the left. Drive north a few clicks (or downwind from Karmers) and Haakgat is a small beach holding a big, advanced rider’s wave. Melkbosstrand (Melkbos) re uires a little further drive to get to along the coast, but works when other spots to the south are getting blown out. As a rule when the sou’easter is cranking, head north in search of less wind. The beach is huge here. Cross-shore winds and beach-break conditions. Scarborough and Cape Point south of Cape Town provide serious wave riding conditions. Flat water can be found, most notably at Langebaan 90 minutes up the road with warmer water, too South of the city down the west side of the Cape are some world class wave spots, such as Misty Cliffs, Scarborough and Cape Point, but some serious e perience is re uired to ride here. Head southeast of Cape Town city and you’ll reach Muizenberg where the wind comes crosson from the right, but head east from here along the Garden Route and the Indian Ocean is much warmer. Far too many spots to begin mentioning those Fre

WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The southeaster (known as the ‘Cape Doctor’ as it clears any pollution from the city) comes in cross- and cross-offshore from the left on the northern beaches and is generally reliable and strong during the summer, from October to March (December and January being peak wind season). Moderate in the morning, it fre uently builds to 30+ knots by mid-afternoon. Get

uently spectacular sunsets PHOTO – Kiteworld

HIGH FIVE operate with the Endless Summer and Mystic Houses and teach all levels, as well as running fre uent pro clinics with famous riders. They also rent out complete sets of kitesurfing e uipment as well as SUP, surf lessons rentals and outdoor adventure tours. www.high-five.co.za

NOW OPEN IN: CAPE TOWN 084 878 8888

LANGEBAAN 082 0790 500

Featuring both private and communal rooms in a fully equipped kite house in Cape Town and Langebaan

KITEBOARDING AFRICA

SHOP SCHOOL

sales rent als repair s demos

Sh op Shop Tel: +27(0)21 556 2765

info@bes tkiteboardingafrica.com

ld Cl as s

Conditions Lessons Support Equipment Instructors

School

Tel: +27(0)76 591 6069 b estk iteb oarding@vo damail.co.za

www.bestkiteboardingafrica.com

034 / AFRICA / SOUTH AFRICA / CAPE TOWN

up early or drive further for less wind. 25 – 35 C 77 - 95 F are typical day air temperatures in the summer, dipping to around 20 C 68 F at night. Contrasting with the hot air, the Atlantic Ocean is relatively cold, averaging 14 C 57 F. Head southeast of the city to the False Bay Indian Ocean side where it jumps up to 19 C 66 F. Wear a spring winter suit at most spots. GET AROUND Airport transfers are typically 25 30 US 45. A hire car is certainly advised to make the most of all the spots, though the MyCiti bus network will take you in and around the city. Hire cars should cost 20 23 US 30 per day 250 280 US 400 per month. We use Acker Rentals (www.ackercarrentals.co.za) when the Kiteworld team visit, who offer classic Mercedes Benz and specialise in wind sport customer rentals. CURRENCY South African Rand (R)- 1 = R17

1 = R13

1 = R11

ACCOMMODATION As you’d e pect from an area close to a big city, there’s plenty of choice in accommodation, from guest houses, hostels and lu ury self catering homes and apartments in Table View, Sunset Beach and Big Bay, to budget and e travagant hotels in the city. Almost anything is

available (although for hotels, you’re really looking at the city). Check out the Endless Summer Beach house Mystic houses (there are two for different budgets now – one on Blouberg beach and one right ne t to Big Bay ) if you want to be in the thick of the action, if you like a busy crowd and are keeping the budget tight and the fun large ( www.themystichouse.com www. endlessummerbeachouse.co.za). Cape Town Guru are also very useful for searching out the right house apartment for you, as well as lots of other needs you might have www.capetownguru.com KiteWorldWide have a stylish ten bedroom mansion just 100 metres from Sunset Beach. Kite Kahunas also run a lu ury guest house in Sunset Beach as well as having a shopfront in the centre of Blouberg on the seafront selling Slingshot gear. Li uid Force offer accommodation in their Sandyshores guest house with three private self-catering apartments, a double room with ensuite, backpackers rooms, communal pool and barbe ue area. Windchasers have just opened up their Kite House one road back from Blouberg beach with bunk bed rooms as well as private en-suite rooms, open plan lounge and kitchen, deck and braai areas. They also serve a light continental breakfast each morning. (See the ‘Schools’ section for further details on these businesses).

info@high-five.co.za +27 (0) 72 902 7899 +27 (0) 84 554 3262 KITEKAHUNAS run wave camps from October – March, specialising in taking you to the best wind and wave spots, removing the hassle of organising your own downwinders. They also offer two week beginner courses, taking you from zero to hero as well as freeride downwind camps for the less e perienced that want some guidance and supervision. They have a new central location where they sell Slingshot in Table View opposite Kite Beach. Languages spoken by instructors English and German www.kitekahunas.com info@kitekahunas.com +27 (0) 76 945 4111 KITEWORLDWIDE have a stylish ten bedroom mansion just 100 metres from Sunset Beach with huge living room, kitchen, braai and rooftop pool with views to the spot and Table Mountain. Kitesurfing courses, guidance, pro clinics with the likes Big Bay, home of the Red Bull King of the Air PHOTO – Ydwer van der Heide Red Bull Content Pool

036 / AFRICA / SOUTH AFRICA / CAPE TOWN

of Best riders Youri Zoon, Lewis Crathern, Hannah Whiteley and more as well as full service travel packages. It’s also a Best Kiteboarding test centre. www.kiteworldwide.com info@kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 2036 085 777 LI UID FORCE ZA are based at Sandyshores just a five minute walk from Bloubergstrand beach. They run lessons for all levels everyday throughout the season at a ma 3 1, they have gear to rent or buy and they offer accommodation packages. www.li uidforcect.co.za www.sandyshores.co.za jarrod@li uidforce.co.za info@sandyshores.co.za +27 (0) 21 556 8172 +27 (0) 21 557 3348

Sam Light, 9m morning session PHOTO – Kiteworld

FOOD AND DRINK Cape Town comes near the top of many a travel writer’s list of recommended destinations and is renowned for great food and wine with e cellent restaurants found in and out of the city. Table View has the rela ed beach-life vibe, or head to the city for more upmarket and or authentic cultural e periences. The dining e perience is fantastic for a fraction of the cost the e uivalent meal would be back home. Well developed, there are shopping centres and supermarkets in Table View and Big Bay. NO WIND No problem. You can easily fill every day around the

V A Waterfront by night PHOTO - Bianca Asher Li uid Force

beautiful Cape with endless attractions, including Robben Island, Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point as well as sizzling night life, wine farms in Franschoek, Stellenbosch and Durbanville, wildlife watching on safari (we went to A uila Game Reserve – www.a uilasafari.com a couple of hours from town), there’s Boulders Beach near Muizenberg to see the penguins and of course world-class surf, cable parks and much more. AIRPORT Cape Town international airport (CPT) is 40 minutes from Table View.

WATERSPORTS WAREHOUSE Based at Sunset Beach in Ocean S uare. Importers of F-One and Mystic, dealers of Airush they stock complete ranges of 2015 gear, offer second hand sales, lessons and demos on all gear. Massive range carried and also specialise in Naish SUP, tournament waterskiing, wakeboarding and importers of Bern helmets. www.watersportswarehouse.co.za sales@watersportswarehouse.co.za +27 (0) 21 802 3934 WINDCHASERS have e panded their operation from Langebaan to Cape Town with their Kite House set just one road back from Blouberg beach, offering uick and easy access to the spot, restaurants etc. They have a retail outlet at the house and run their kite school from there too, offering high level tuition for all levels. A shuttle operates between the Cape Town house and their operation in Langebaan. www.windchaserssa.com info@windchaserssa.com +28 (0) 84 878 8888 VANHUNKS produce their own range of kiteboards, surfboards, SUPs and skateboards and have a shop located at Marine Circle in Blouberg. Also dealers of Core, Slingshot, Peter Lynn, Mystic, cel, GoPro and Thule, they also run lessons for all levels, rent out lots of gear and also have two apartments that they rent out to kitesurfers. Advice and more at www.vanhunksboarding.com info@vanhunksboarding.com +27 (0) 21 556 4398

C ABRINH A SOUTH AFRICA

PROUD IMPORTE

CABRINHA | RRD | NP | JP AUSTRALIA EMAIL: TELL: ADDRESS: WEBSITE:

DONOVAN O’NEALE GRANT RANT ROSS donovan@cabrinha.co.za grant@cabrinha.co.za +27 21 5541729 Shop 53A Eden On The Bay, Bloubergstrand, Cape Town http://cabrinha.co.za

038 / AFRICA / KENYA / WATAMU

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10

WATAMU, THE LURE Constant trade winds, a choice of sandbars, seven kilometres of powder white sand beaches and large summer swells make Watamu a wonderful playground for kiters of all levels with its own uni ue local effect providing e cellent winds. A world heritage site, there are game reserves and a ton of other activities and sights close by. THE SET-UP Located south of Malindi, one of Kenya’s oldest fishing settlements, the main seven kilometre long beach of Watamu is known as Turtle Bay. A natural reef protects the beach, ranging from 0.5 to two kilometres off the beach. Waist to over-head waves on the reef during the summer and an abundance of sand bars on the inside creating lovely knee-to-waist deep flat water freestyle and learning spots. The beaches are wide allowing for safe launching and landing. A large inland creek known as Mida lies just off the main bay meaning that Watamu has lots to offer on a daily basis. Tribe Watersports run e cursions to the idyllic riding spots at Mida and joining the Watamu Kite club will get you discounts and free entry in to clubs, bars and restaurants in the local area. Tribe also now run instructor courses – see the schools section. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Two trade wind seasons in Watamu The Kaskazi blows December - April from the NE, averaging around 20 - 25 knots. Generally picking up from about 11am you’ll use your nine a lot and your 12 well into the evening. The Kuzi blows June - September from the SE and is the windiest time, averaging 25 knots, occasionally up to 30+, so bring your seven. Both these e uatorial systems are e tremely constant and blow cross and cross-onshore, providing safe riding conditions. The Kuzi season has best swells with lots of reefs and sandbars for the large Indian Ocean swells to break over. Pop into the Tribe Watersports H at Medina Palms for a brief on the best spots are and where to avoid. Air temperatures can reach 36 C 97 F during the Kaskazi season. Kuzi evenings are a little chillier, so bring your hoody. Water temperatures range from 25-30 C 7786 F throughout the year, so it’s boardies or bikinis 365

KENYA

GET AROUND There are loads of tuk-tuks to take you to different kitesurfing spots along the bay, for around 300KSH from anywhere in town. Bodabodas are motor bike ta is and they charge just around 50KSH, though these have been known to be a bit reckless CURRENCY Kenyan Shilling (KSH) 1 = 140KSH 1 = 118KSH 1 = 87KSH Dollars are widely accepted and there are cash points that accept foreign cards. ACCOMMODATION Medina Palms resort has apartments and houses at affordable rates right on the beach. Self-catering is possible, but there are also restaurants on site. Tribe Watersports is located on site at Medina Palms. Other options in Watamu are backpackers, a range of bouti ue B Bs and private properties on the beach. Tribe can advise. FOOD AND DRINK There are two main supermarkets and, as a fishing village, it’s especially easy to get hold of fresh fish, lobster and crab at very little cost. Lots of options for eating out and, with a large Italian influence in the area, the pizza restaurants are e cellent NO WIND Day or weekend safari trips leave Watamu daily. The Araboke Sakoke forest has a watering hole within a 15 minute drive from the centre of town where elephants regularly drink. Also find incredible diving and deep sea fishing or visit local historical ruins. There’s also a local snake park, turtle rehab centre or sundowner dhow cruises on Mida creek. SUP lessons and rental through Tribe. AIRPORT Malindi airport (MYD) is 20 mins away. Mombassa (MBA) is 2.5 hrs away. Transfers can be organised by Tribe Watersports. There are daily flights into Kenya. Tribe Watersports recommend Ethiopian Airways - there’s a stop-off in Addis Ababa for a few hours, but you can take 60kg of baggage starting at 450 return. Kenya Airways also fly into Nairobi with connecting flights to Malindi and Mombasa.

Freestyle heaven ALL PHOTOS – Tribe Watersports

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

knots

BEER 250KSH RESTAURANT MEAL 300 - 1500KSH ACCOMMODATION 3,500 – 12,000KSH

TRIBE WATERSPORTS is a BKSA approved school running courses for all levels, typically at 2 1. A full range of Slingshot gear is available to rent and the Watamu Kitesurfing Club provide rescue cover and storage, as well as SUP, windsurfing, bodyboarding and kayaking rental and tuition. Video coaching and photo-shoots also available. This year they also offer Zero-2-Hero instructor courses over a five week period. Languages spoken by staff English, Spanish, French, German and Dutch. www.tribe-watersports.com info@tribe-watersports.com +254 (0) 718553355

SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

Beautiful low wind mornings

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040 / AFRICA / TANZANIA / PAJE, ZANZIBAR

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30

PAJE, ZANZIBAR,

20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D

ercentage of days with wind over force

TANZANIA

knots

Low tide learning PHOTO - Airborne

THE LURE Endless downwinders, beautiful 10 - 14 metre weather, super fun waves out on the reef and various flat water conditions to be found on the lagoons closer to shore. This authentic little village on the southeast corner of Zanzibar retains a magic vibe for kitesurfers

FOOD AND DRINK Paje has a small supermarket, lovely restaurants as well as local ones with beach boys cooking your food over a beach fire. You can survive on as little as 15 a day at local restaurants. Hotel restaurants are more e pensive. For parties hit Paje by Night.

THE SET-UP An ideal destination for most riders with huge downwinder potential around the remote islands. Zanzibar is just 90 miles long and 40 miles wide. Paje is the main kitesurfing spot on the south coast. An offshore reef creates flat conditions on the huge lagoons at low tide. As the tide rises and the water spills over the reef it gets a little choppier on the main beach, but at high tide you’ll find nice kickers closer to shore. During a neap tide it’s flat water all day and si days a month the inner lagoon doesn’t empty. Close your day out with a downwinder to a restaurant 20 kilometres along the coast. Join a kite cruise or book a ‘live-aboard’ trip for a different e perience.

NO WIND Zanzibar is a spice island rich in history and heritage and has a constantly improving tourist infrastructure. Take a cultural historical tour and visit the colourful markets of Stone Town. Alternatively, swim with dolphins or go fishing, diving, SUPing, surfing or take boat safaris.

WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Best January to February and June to August, but generally good mid-December to March and June to September. Blowing left to right first season, switching for the second. Cross-on 12 - 20 knots December to March and 14 – 25 cross-on from the north June to September. Average air temps 30 C 86 F water 27 C 80 F. On long days and downwinders wear a shorty. Cover your shoulders and lower legs in town as this is an Islamic country. GET AROUND Ta is are cheap and plentiful. A scooter is good for a day’s sight seeing. The main town of Stone Town is an hour from Paje. Crime is low here, but use common sense. CURRENCY Tanzania Shilling (TZS) 1 = 2,700TZS 1 = 2,000TZS 1 = 1,800TZS Lots of ATM’s in Stone Town, but none in Paje. ACCOMMODATION Paje is a small village with hotels and guest houses ranging from three to five star and all accommodation is pretty much right on the spot. Jambiani is eight kilometres south of Paje and is where the KiteWorldWide Best Pro Center and accommodation is located.

AIRPORT Zanzibar international airport (ZNZ Kisuani) is an hour from Paje in Stone Town. Alternatively, fly to Dar es Salaam (DAR) on the mainland and get the 20 – 30 minute ferry to Zanzibar.

BEER 4,000TZS RESTAURANT MEAL 15,000 – 35,000TKS ACCOMMODATION 80,000+TKS p.p.p.n.

AIRBORNE teach all levels up to instructor level on Paje beach with a viewing deck, free wifi, beach-view swimming pool, storage, rescue boat, air compressor, showers, onsite restaurant, dive centre and kite surf SUP landboard rentals. Guided downwinders, reef trips and live-aboard boat trips around the achipelago. Accommodation packages available and kite surf eco village opening in 2015. www.airbornekitecentre.com info@airbornekitecentre.com +255 776 687 357 KITEWORLDWIDE’S Best Pro Center is in Jambiani. Offering the Red Monkey Lodge and Coral Rock Hotel, both directly on the spot and geared towards sustainable tourism. A two kilometre sandbank stretches out into the lagoon providing butter flat water. Full service travel agent. www.kiteworldwide.com info@kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 203 6085 777

MOON TOURS offer coaching and clinics with rescue boat support when necessary. Nick Jacobsen will co-host an Africa trip in 2015 and Best riders for their Fiji trips to be announced. They also arrange mid to top-end wildlife safaris. www.moontours.com info@moontours.com.au +61 359 821 007 PAJE BY KITE teach all levels with an all female team of instructors. Pro clinics, trick masterclasses, boat reef trips, downwinders, safety boat, gear storage as well as SUP and surf trips. Paje By Night throws parties you’ll remember a lifetime. www.pajebykite.com UNI UE KITE CAMPS run a wide variety of bespoke package camp options filled with all sorts of activities and adventures on and off the water to help you discover all that Zanzibar has to offer. Also run a kite school called A uaholics Zanzibar for intermediate and advanced riders and guided downwinders. www.uni ue-kitecamps.com info@uni ue-kitecamps.com +49 6887 9925 195 www.a uaholics-zanzibar.com +255 (0) 776 219 337

KITEWORLDWIDE www.kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

042 / AFRICA / MAURITIUS

/ BEL OMBRE

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D

ercentage of days with wind over force

BEL OMBRE,

knots

MAURITIUS Kevin Langeree enjoying himself in the warm, windy waters PHOTO – Ydwer van der Heide

THE LURE Nestled in the pictures ue, traditional south of Mauritius is the small and e clusive Outrigger resort in Bel Ombre - the ideal location for the kitesurfer looking for the ultimate five star kitesurfing e perience. THE SET-UP Typical of Mauritius, Bel Ombre is protected by a large coral reef 300 metres offshore which means it benefits from a sizeable area of flat, shallow water on the inside that’s great for learning or freestyle and then as with the rest of this coast you can find waves on the outside and especially further downwind. Situated 20 minutes or so east from the infamous Le Morne along the south coast, the flat water area is appro imately two s uare kilometres. The wind can be a little gusty close to shore and wetsuit boots are advisable if you’re learning as there are a few areas of coral close in – so head out into the lush beautiful blue waters for the e cellent riding conditions further out in the lagoon. Coral areas underfoot are marked by buoys and will usually be well below fin-depth, e cept at low tide. On a low tide a little walk of 80 metres will get you to deep enough water. Ranging from one to four metres, you’ll find some smaller waves suitable for entry level wave riders and a bigger wave that can be found further downwind. Don’t worry about the spot getting too crowded. Due to KiteGlobing’s e clusive use of the bay, it’s VIP kiting at its best KiteGlobing also sometimes run trips to other kite spots. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Windy most of the year most reliable July to October. You can still catch some decent conditions October through May and the waves tend to be bigger, but January and February bring some pretty heavy rain in cyclone season. Waves may be a little smaller in the Mauritian summertime but they’re still good There’s a reason the KSP held its wave events in Mauritius Average water temps 22 to 28 C 71 – 82 F so it’s lovely and warm. May to October take a shorty, possibly even a full spring suit at times. GET AROUND No car needed in Bel Ombre. The resort has everything you’ll need and everything can be reached on foot. The nearest town is Chamouny, ten kilometres away and easily reachable

by ta i. Hire a car if you want to e plore the island. CURRENCY Mauritian Rupee (MUR) - 1 = MUR50 1 = MUR37 1 = MUR32 The hotel accepts both cash and credit debit cards. ACCOMMODATION The Outrigger hotel itself has a range of different lu ury room options and suites for couples and families right on the water front. There are also cheaper options available in the nearby small town of Chamouny which is roughly a 15 minute ta i ride or drive away but you won’t be right on the spot. FOOD AND DRINK The Outrigger Hotel has si bars and restaurants and between them they serve as diverse an array of food, wines and drinks as you could ever hope to find. The Edgewater Bar and Grill is down by the beachfront alongside Willie’s Crab Shack. The Mercado restaurant opened recently, serving European dishes where you can interact with the chefs as your food is prepared right in front of you. Adjacent to that is Rouben’s Wine Room and Bar Bleu for cocktails. Finally, The Plantation Club offers locally inspired Mauritian dishes with an Asian and European twist. NO WIND Mauritius has a diverse and fascinating cultural history, incredible rainforests and towering mountain ranges. If you want to get your hair wet then Outrigger has wakeboarding, SUPing and surfing e uipment and you can book fishing trips or even swim with dolphins. Golfing fans have the choice of eight 18 hole championship courses and three nine holes dotted around the island, there are festivals throughout the year and plenty of duty free shopping and then rela ing around the resort or the island. AIRPORT Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam (SSR MRU) international airport is just a 45 minute ta i ride away. The hotel can arrange a personalised chauffeur, mini-bus collection or even a transfer by helicopter

Lu urious kiting and VIP off the water e periences, too PHOTO – Outrigger

VARIOUS ALL-INCLUSIVE OPTIONS AVAILABLE THROUGH THE HOTEL

KITEGLOBING located at the C Beach Club teach all levels (including waves) all year, usually as private tuition. New North, Airush and Core gear is available for rent, instructors are IKO VDWS certified and they speak English, German, French and Creol. Two rescue boats on hand at all times. www.kiteglobing.com info@kiteglobing.com +230 605 5334 Mobile + 230 5717 5348

SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919 TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489

044 / AFRICA / MOROCCO / DAKHLA

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

DAKHLA,

knots

MOROCCO Lots of space to improve PHOTO - E plora

THE LURE Fun and safe for all levels with enough wind to be shredding dawn till dusk among the dolphins and flamingoes, Dakhla in southwest Morocco offers simple and rela ing holiday e periences on the edge of the Western Sahara on and around the immense 45 kilometre lagoon, or at three good wave spots. THE SET-UP Situated on the edge of the Western Sahara desert, the Dakhla peninsula shelters a huge flat water lagoon from the Atlantic Ocean, so whatever your level and riding preference, you’re likely to be covered – there’s even a ‘speed spot’ Perhaps it’s not the ideal holiday option for those looking for lots of non-kiting activity options, but if you’re hungry for fantastic wind conditions, flat water, waves, beautiful sunsets and rela ed evenings with good food and like-minded people who really love kitesurfing, then Dakhla should be on your list of future holiday destinations. Dakhla offers a great variety of kitesurfing spots and conditions year round and is perfect for all levels. The lagoon is immense, so it’s always easy to find some space. The most popular areas are around the kite camps, but a few kilometres south you’ll find the famous ‘speed spot’, which works perfectly at low tide, offering phenomenal flat water and you can check with centres for safety boat cover. It’s very special. The lagoon can be ridden at both high and low tide, though high tide provides the best opportunity for beginners as the water is waist-deep. For advanced riders the flat water at low tide doesn’t get any better. Most people imagine Dakhla to have only flat water, but there are a variety of wave spots between a five and 20 minute drive with incredible conditions, particularly during the winter months. You’ll need a 4 4 to get to the spots, but schools organise regular transfers to the wave spots of Foum Lobouir and Pointe D’Or. The first is close to town and can be accessed in a normal car, and features side-shore wind from the north offering up some spectacular conditions. Pointe D’Or needs 4 4 access. There is generally less wind at the wave spots and a 4 3 or 3 2 wetsuit on the coast is a good idea. Take a kite surfari on the Atlantic coast and don’t miss out on an e cellent downwinder from Dakhla to Duna Blanca or Dakhla town,

which is a brilliant way of discovering the full beauty of the lagoon. The only warning is of some shells in the sand, so be careful not to step on them or drag your kite over them. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Dakhla genuinely offers conditions all year. The wind generally blows from the NE 19 - 25 knots in winter, increasing to 30 knots in the summer months of July and August. Usually lighter in the morning, the wind increases at lunch time until dropping off again at sunset, so it’s possible to kite all day, until around 7pm. Waves are best November - February. In summer you’ll use your seven and nine metre a lot, and in winter a 12 will see more action. The weather’s good all year, from 20 – 30 C 68 – 86 F during the day, dropping to 12 – 15 C 54 – 60 F at night. Boardshorts and bikinis in mid-summer, shorty the rest of the year and a warm sweatshirt and jeans for the evenings. The water temp sits around 19 – 24 C 66 - 75 F all year. In strong winds it feels colder, so pack a longer wetsuit. During the summer a shorty or even just boardshorts will be enough. January and February are the coldest months. GET AROUND If you are staying at one of the camps no rental car is necessary. Transfers to town and back can be 10 per person or free depending on your package and be aware that there aren’t many ta is. The UCPA hotel in town brings people to the lagoon each day but it’s inconvenient compared to just walking to your kite spot and the costs can build up. Make sure you buy a rescue voucher for the lagoon if you’re not staying at one of the camps. If you stay in town you’re best to rent a car to get to the kite spot or daily 4 4 transfers can be arranged with schools to a variety of spots. CURRENCY Moroccan Dirham (MAD) 1 = MAD14 1 = MAD11 US 1 = MAD9 Facilities in the camp will accept Euros too and there are ATMs in Dakhla. ACCOMMODATION The vast majority of kiters choose to stay in one of

BEER 3 - MAD35 RESTAURANT MEAL 5 – 40 - MAD56 - 450 ACCOMMODATION 40 – 80 MAD440 - 900 p.p.p.n

CLUB MISTRAL located ne t to the Ocean Vagabond beach bar run lessons in kitesurfing, windsurfing, SUP and surfing. Shop, showers, storage, chill out corner, lots of gear to rent and e cursions to wave spots. Ocean Vagabond also provides e cellent accommodation. www.club-mistral.com company@club-mistral.com +49 (0) 881 92 54 960 DAKHLA ATTITUDE HOTEL just in front of Dragon Island at the northeast end of the lagoon has an e panded camp with spa, restaurant, bar with DJs, surf shop, activities, 2.0 cable park, pump track, e cursions and free wifi. Plus compressors, gear rentals, lessons, e cursions, secure storage areas, safety boat and a kite repair. Daily downwinders to the White Dune or flat water speed spot and wave spot transfers are also available. www.dakhla-attitude.ma booking@dakhla-attitude.ma +212 661 835 010 E PLORA in the Dakhla Alize camp is a family run kite, wind and surf centre, open all year with beautiful bungalows a few steps from the water. North and Best 2015 gear for rent and specialist clinics run throughout the year. Safety boat cover, gear storage and full package holidays also offered. www.e ploramorocco.com adventure@e ploramorocco.com +44 (0) 773 856 3883 +212 611 475 188

046 / AFRICA / MOROCCO / DAKHLA

Wave action PHOTO – Svetlana Romantsova Kite Morocco Choose your level of lu ury around the lagoon Photo – KiteWorldWide

the camps on the lagoon’s water’s edge, though Kite Morocco have a guest house option in town. Unless you only want to kite at the town’s main wave spot, the best option is to book accommodation at the lagoon where the offerings now cater for all tastes and budgets most are all-inclusive meaning you can just kite, rela and enjoy good food and drink without having to worry about anything much more than that. FOOD AND DRINK All the camps and hotels are all-inclusive and provide e cellent fresh food and drinks at sunset. If you want to get out of camp for a while then Dakhla town is a good e perience and probably not what you’re used to. Visit the small souk in town and the local food and spice markets. Look out for the cars selling seasonal fruits and try the Dakhla-grown cherry tomatoes. Traditional tea in a cafe is a must-do, and lunch at the oyster farm is also highly recommended (it serves more than just oysters). Between the camps and town there’s also a semi-hidden fish restaurant on the water’s edge that there are pizza options in town as well as a more upmarket dinner at Villa Dakhla.

There are rooms with e cellent views at each camp around the lagoon Photo – Dakhla Attitude

KITEWORLDWIDE are at Villa Camp Dakhla in the top northwest corner of the lagoon, offering high-class accommodation in si bouti ue mini-villas with stunning views, inside toilet and shower and open air bathroom and bathtub. 2015 Best gear available, plus daily downwinders, wave spot trips and rescue boat cover. KiteWorldWide also operate as a full service travel agent. www.kiteworldwide.com info@kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777

KITEWORLDWIDE www.kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777

The new 2.0 cable at Dakhla Attitude Photo – Dakhla Attitude

NO WIND The Dakhla Attitude Hotel now has a 2.0 system cable park in a 140 45 metre pool with two kickers, rooftop and bo that is available everyday and for two night sessions with BB and beach party each week. Most camps offer no-wind activities, the most regular being surf and SUP trips as well as catamaran sailing, windsurfing, blokarts or fishing. Non-sporting options are fairly limited, but eating good food never gets old on holiday and there’s always lovely weather on the beach and e pansive sands. There are trip options to the sweet water blow holes of Imlili in the desert, Portorico beach or the thermal source of Asnaa where you can take a hot shower in sulfate rich water directly out of the ground. AIRPORT Fly into Dakhla (VIL), although there are no direct flights from outside Morocco. There are also seven flights per week from Casablanca and two from Agadir. Be prepared to spend a night in Casablanca for your connecting flight on your way home (though if booking with KiteWorldWide they will organise a nice hotel). Twice a week there’s also a service from Las Palmas, Gran Canaria with Canary Fly (www.canaryfly.es).

KITE MOROCCO at the Dakhla Spirit camp offer kitesurfing tuition for all levels all year at a ma 4 1 ratio with safety boat on patrol. A full range of RRD kites for hire along with windsurfing, SUP, kayaking and surfing. They also have the Dakhla Spirit Surf House in town ne t to the Foum Lambouir wave spot. Full packages including transfers and pro clinics with the likes Ale Pastor, Youri Zoon and Kari Schibevaag also available at times. www.kitemorocco.com www.dakhlaspirit.com info@kitemorocco.com info@dakhlaspirit.com +212 661 661 863

CLUB MISTRAL www.club-mistral.com +49 (0) 881 92 54 960 TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489

Session side chill out Photo – Svetlana Romantsova Kite Morocco

Good morning session Photo – E plora

SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

There’s more than just flat water SUP if the wind ever drops Photo – KiteWorldWide

048 / AFRICA / MOROCCO / ESSAOUIRA

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D

ercentage of days with wind over force

ESSAOUIRA, MOROCCO Sunshine and flatter sections in the bay PHOTO – Club Mistral

THE LURE Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea and situated at the top of Africa, Essaouira isn’t far away in terms of travel time from Europe, but in terms of ‘where’ it takes you culturally, it feels like a much further escape. There’s a bustling old medina by the harbour and this busy fishing village also happens to be known as ‘the windy city’ with a vast, sandy beach stretching for three miles. THE SET-UP The best kiting is found towards the left side of the bay, away from the town, where the beach is less crowded and the wind is more constant. The curved shape of the bay and cross-on winds make it safe and kite schools offer safety boat assistance. Protected by the Mogador Islands and harbour, cross-shore winds from the right offer ideal conditions for beginner to e pert. Find flat water up close to the medina (where the wind is a little gustier), open water in the middle of the bay and waves and clean winds in the downwind corner. In the summer this is a great spot for getting in to waves. There are also some other fantastic spots close-by. Advanced wave riders head to Moulay Bouzarktoune and Sidi Kaoki, both just out of town. For flat water just south of the river in the summer there’s a super spot where some lessons also run. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The huge temperature differences in land and sea accelerate the summer northeasterly trade wind in the afternoon. Generally blowing from the north northeast at 15 - 25 knots, during the summer months of July and August this increases considerably, up to 40 knots. Consistent winds from April – September. Out of the water it’s very warm when the wind drops. Constant water temperatures 17 – 20 C 63 - 68 F, but with the wind it’s recommended you wear a wetsuit all year. Bigger waves in winter with the wind coming from the south. Conditions aren’t guaranteed then, but still good for about 60 of the time. GET AROUND The kite spots are just a ten minute walk from town, but if you’re wanting to head elsewhere, or even if you have a lot of gear then hire a car (though you can’t drive into the medina). Ta is are cheap and reliable. Everything within town and the medina is walkable.

“World class waves in winter and no shortage of wind in summer. Wander through the old town’s fascinating market and winding streets for a taste of Morocco.”

MIG EL WILLIS, EST RO RIDER

CURRENCY Moroccan Dirham (MAD) 1 = MAD14 1 = MAD11 US 1 = MAD9 ATMs and card payments outside the medina. Most people change money up on arrival. Taking Euros with you can be useful. ACCOMMODATION There’s a good range of choices from guest houses and apartments outside of the medina, to hotels and riads inside the medina, some of which can feel completely hidden away and yet are like miniature palaces. A wonderful e perience in themselves and some come with your own cook FOOD AND DRINK There is an area with bars and restaurants on the opposite side of the bay to the old town where the main kite spot is, making it a great place to hang out all day. There’s everything from supermarkets to pharmacies in Essaouira in general. Eating out is uite cheap and there’s a great selection of restaurants serving international cuisine. Hot tip for traditional food Ramsess. This is a Muslim country, but Essaouira has adapted to tourism and you can find some good bars and restaurants serving alcohol. Essaouira is more about great days and good food than all-night parties, but there are a couple of clubs. NO WIND The huge sandy beach is a great place to spend time when it’s not windy with beach bars and cafes dotted along it. Essaouira’s working harbour forms the hub of the local community alongside the busy medina markets and so hasn’t just been created for tourists. Activity-wise there’s mountain biking, horse riding, uad biking and more. AIRPORT Marrakesh (RAK) airport is a two hour drive ta i. Bus from the centre of Marrakech by Supratours of CTM cost around 10 each way. Agadir (AGA) is a little further. Transfers usually available with your kite schools or accommodation.

knots

BEER MAD34 RESTAURANT MEAL MAD170 ACCOMMODATION MAD650

CLUB MISTRAL www.club-mistral.com company@club-mistral.com +49 (0) 881 92 54 960 E PLORA www.e ploramorocco.com adventure@e ploramorocco.com +44 (0) 773 856 3883 +212 611 475 188 KITEMOROCCO www.kitemorocco.com info@kitemorocco.com +212 661 661 863 KITEWORLDWIDE www.kiteworldwide.com info@kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777

CLUB MISTRAL www.club-mistral.com +49 (0) 881 92 54 960 KITEWORLDWIDE www.kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777 TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

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050 / AFRICA / EGYPT / DAHAB

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

knots

BEER 17EGP RESTAURANT MEAL 115EGP ACCOMMODATION 530EGP p.p.p.n.

DAHAB

EGYPT

THE SET-UP There are several kite spots, most working best at high tide. The famous national park lagoon just north of Dahab is kiteable in all tide states, though, and on a high tide it opens up to riding the sea. The main lagoon is split between windsurf and kitesurf zones. Windsurfers at Baby Bay and Speedy Lagoon (strictly windsurfers only between 09 00 and 16 00 in summer). Downwind are fantastic flat water areas. Dahab Kite Lagoon features shallow, knee deep water at high-tide, making it fantastic for learning. It can be gusty due to the wind blowing over Dahab itself in the morning, but smoothes out in the afternoon. Remember, Dahab is only reachable if you head upwind from the lagoon and you can’t launch or land on the beach, so if you’re doing a downwinder back to town you’ll need to land at the lagoon and walk up rather than try and land on the town’s beach. Head upwind to Assalah at a high tide and you’ll find clean and steady cross-on wind with waves that have been known to produce four metre faces on e ceptional

Big blue open e panses out of the lagoons PHOTO – GP Kite

days. Dahab Canyon (normally a dive site) has clean cross-on, flatter conditons at high tide. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Reliable northerlies are funnelled through the mountains just beyond the national park lagoon 300 days a year. Eight and nine metre kites most popular in average 22 knot winds. Tens and 12s in spring winter. Summer winds are strongest in morning and drop by up to ten knots in the afternoon. Morning winter winds are gusty, getting smoother and steadier in the afternoon. Just rash vest and boardies in the summer. Bring a shorty in spring and autumn and full 3 2mm suit in winter. Worth bringing wetsuit boots for the sharp stones in the lagoons. Summer daytimes are really hot, but bring warm layers for the evening. GET AROUND Negotiate ta i prices before getting in them. Motorbike car 4 4 rental at the airport or in Dahab, however don’t go off e ploring the desert without a guide and the proper

HARRY NASS operate two centres at the Ibis Styles hotel in the sheltered lagoon and another downwind of the windsurfing area at the Iberotel Dahabeya. They teach all levels all year and have a walkie talkie system with rescue boats on stand-by. Choose from a full range of demo gear from Cabrinha, JP and Neil Pryde. www.harry-nass.com info@harry-nass.com +20 69 364 0559 GP KITE teach all levels all year, offering priviate tuition up to 4 1 ratio. Core, Carved, Delu e and enon gear is available on lessons and to rent and GP Kite also organise downwinders, kite camps, kite boat safaris and hotel pick-up and drop-off services. Instructors accredited by IKO, VDWS and BKSA Languages spoken English, German Russian www.gpkite.com info@gpkite.com +20 (0)122 592 2505

Immense freeride fun PHOTO - Harry Nass

Boat trips available for more blasting PHOTO – GP Kite

e uipment. If you’re booked with Harry Nass then a boat shuttle service will ferry you between their two centres while GP Kite offer a free hotel pick-up and drop-off service. CURRENCY Egyptian pound (EGP) - 1 = EGP12 1 = EGP9 US 1 = EGP7 ATM and banks for withdrawing cash and e changing currencies. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and some restaurants (but not all). ACCOMMODATION Good choice from hotels resorts, self-catering apartments and more basic but pleasant guest houses. FOOD AND DRINK Markets, shops, restaurants and bars are dotted along the shoreline. The seafood is superb. Some people avoid

salads and advise not drinking local water to swerve the stomach bugs. There are a few bars in town and the hotels serve alcohol. Be respectful though - as a Muslim country public drunkenness is heavily frowned upon. NO WIND World class free scuba diving and snorkelling, horse riding, uad and motorbike desert tours, starlit mountain valley dinners. Guided tours of Mount Moses, the incredible pyramids of Cairo and Petra in Jordan are all just a day trip away. AIRPORT Sharm el Sheikh (SSH) is about 80 kilometres away. Transfer takes an hour. Private transfer can be arranged or you can pick up a ta i from the airport (but be sure to agree on the rate before you get in).

0 2 015 1

CLUB MISTRAL Eldorado offers uni ue conditions for advanced kiters on a private beach in front of the centre, just 20 metres from the Eldorado Lodge that’s 500 metres upwind of the Club Mistral centre on the same lagoon that’s safer for beginners. Languages spoken by instructors English and Italian. www.club-mistral.com company@club-mistral.com +49 (0) 881 92 54 960

CLUB MISTRAL www.club-mistral.com +49 (0) 881 92 54 960 TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

GP Kite lagoon camp PHOTO – GP Kite

GP Kite School custom made in Fehmarn, Germany

Dahab, Egypt info @gpkite.com +20 (0) 122 592 2505 www.gpkite.com

052 / AFRICA / EGYPT / SHARM EL SHEIKH

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

SHARM EL SHEIKH

knots

NABQ, EGYPT THE LURE Sharm offers the perfect combination of high uality hotels right on site with all the resort facilities you’d e pect from a popular hot spot. The airport is only a short ta i ride away and, being serviced by many airlines, you can get there any day of the week from all over Europe. A perfect choice for all level of kitesurfers, travelling alone or with non-kiting partners. THE SET-UP The Nab area is on the north side of Sharm El Sheikh, famous for its constant winds on the same coast line as Dahab. Kite Junkies have a couple of compressor stations to pump your kites and their beach staff will even lay out your lines. The lagoon is split into two areas with wind coming cross cross-onshore from the left Freeriders have a huge area directly in front of the launching and landing area, perfect for busting out your latest moves in smooth, constant winds. Beginners use the huge area upwind where lessons take place in safety. For rookies and those not yet going upwind, there’s plenty of practice space and you’ll never be out of your depth. The launching area is right in front of the Kite Junkies centre. If you do find yourself in a tricky situation, or without your board, a member of the beach staff will assist you. A 20 minute ride upwind will see you in a bay with moderate rolling waves getting up to single or double-head height. Suited to the more advanced rider wanting to get to grips with the waves, it’s also great for boosting some big airs. Mostly sandy bottomed it’s uite friendly as wave spots go, but your first time up there is always organised with an instructor. After a session you just downwind back to the flat water lagoon. WIND, WATER AND WEATHER The wind direction is normally cross to cross-on and very smooth. The strongest and most consistent days are September to June. The winter months (Nov - Feb) see the wind lasting most of the day. May to September it’s baking over there, often getting up to 38 C 100 F in August, before gradually cooling down to around 23 C 73 F in February. Bath water conditions from 19 - 28 C 66 F - 82 F. Bring your rubber duck.

GET AROUND Once in Sharm most opt for the traditional blue and white ta is for transport, larger groups can get the minibuses. Otherwise hire a car or scooter, but remember your international driving license. Alternatively, EGP5 will see you anywhere around Sharm in a micro-bus. CURRENCY Egyptian pound (EGP) - 1 = EGP12 US 1 = EGP7

1 = EGP9

ACCOMMODATION There’s a huge choice of accommodation styles and prices in Sharm. Mostly hotels of various standards and in Nab you can also find hotels and smaller, more intimate digs. Whatever you want really. FOOD AND DRINK The spot of Nab is 20 minutes from Sharm centre where there are a huge amount of resort facilities, including restaurants, bars and clubs. Nab is more peaceful than Sharm, but still has a large supermarket and several restaurants. NO WIND If you’re visiting with the family they won’t get bored. A public promenade runs along the front of the local hotels and the access to shops, bars and restaurants ideal for the non-kiters while you ride. Walk the prom, or rent one of the many available electric scooters. Alternatively just chill out on one of the sun loungers and enjoy the entertainment. Food and drinks available all day from the nearby beach bar. The list of non-kiting activities is literally endless here, including world class diving, snorkelling, 18-hole golf course, FIA pro go-kart track, motorcross course, water parks, wakeboarding, dolphin shows, horse riding and health spas. We haven’t even mentioned Cairo, the ancient pyramids or ‘the world’s greatest open air museum’, Lu or AIRPORT Sharm El Sheikh (SSH) is just ten minutes from Sharm. Contact Kite Junkies for a transfer.

BEER EGP17 RESTAURANT MEAL EGP117 ACCOMMODATION EGP120 - 330 p.p.p.n

KITE JUNKIES are open all year and teach all levels with a ma imum ratio of 4 1. Learn on, or rent Ozone and Nobile gear. Repair facility and wifi also on-site. Safety boat cover is provided as well as hotel bookings and airport transfers. Accredited by IKO and BKSA www.kitejunkies.com info@kitejunkies.com +2 012 010 6831 UK +44 (0) 161 408 6831

TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

Sun, sea, sand, warm winds, good conditions, lots to do and all very convenient from anywhere in Europe PHOTOS – Kite Junkies

054 / AFRICA / EGYPT/ EL GOUNA

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EL GOUNA, EGYPT THE LURE 30 minutes north of Hurghada lies the resort of El Gouna, featuring a lattice work of waterways, housing, hotels, restaurants, bars, a world class golf course and a newly developed cable park. El Gouna must be the most sophisticated of all Red Sea kiting spots. A man-made dream of a town that not only caters for the kiting tourist, but attracts holidaymakers looking for a safe, lu urious holiday and also has a lively local population of 20,000 e -pats who all call this ‘French Riviera of the Red Sea’, home. THE SET-UP There are two main kitesurfing areas. The wind is predominantly from the north, making it cross cross-on from the left at Buzzha and Mangroovy beaches which are north of El Gouna town, while the second spot at the Moevenpick hotel is five minutes south. From town, all spots are just a very short tuc-tuc ride away. All spots are very tide dependent, more so in summer than winter. At high tide you can ride everywhere. At low tide you have to be careful as it does get shallow, so you’ll be riding at different times of the day depending on when you book your holiday and we found that there is more water at low tide at the northern end of Mangroovy Buzzha up by Kiteboarding Club. There is some good flat water on offer here though in general, and only a couple of hours where you’ll have to chill by the pool rather than ride because of the low tide. Buzzha and Mangroovy are the main spots. The wind is predominantly cross-shore from the left and the gently shelving beach means that there is an enourmous amount of shallow water for beginners as well as deeper water on the outside. There are three centres spread out along the beach here, Kiteboarding Club El Gouna being the furthest north and most upwind, after which a huge area opens up the further upwind you go. There is another smaller private launch at the Moevenpick hotel downwind of the city harbours. You can pay a day rate to kite there if you’re not staying at the hotel. Tends not to be so busy as it’s within the hotel grounds but is much smaller with a swimming area downwind. At low tide (or for beginners all the time) booties are ‘recommended’ although plenty of good riders go barefoot. As with most of Egypt there are compressors and helpers on the beach. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER A reef lying a few hundred metres from the shore creates a waist-deep lagoon between it and the beach. Outside

It’s windy, it’s warm you’ll progress PHOTO – KBC El Gouna

of the reef is a large deep water channel and then some shallower sandbars further out. Egypt is a year-round kiting destination, but summer months are most consistent. Midday mid-summer temps can reach up to 40 C 104 F The water is incredibly warm, though you’ll start to need a spring suit around October. The water never really drops below 20 C and winter is still good for your holiday as it’s uieter but still with respectable air temperatures. GET AROUND Everything you need is here and nowhere is more than ten minutes on the little buses for which you can buy a weekly ticket for about EGP13. No need for a hire car as you can also just catch a tuc-tuc to get about with your kiting gear. Hotels usually organise an airport transfer. More information at www.elgounamap.com CURRENCY Egyptian pound (EGP) - 1 = EGP11 1 = EGP9 US 1 = EGP7. There are ATMs in town and the marina. Credits cards widely accepted. ACCOMMODATION El Gouna has many fantastic hotels to choose from, ranging from the intimate and friendly three star hotels, to lu ury four or five star resorts. Kiteboarding Club can also arrange a complete package for you. FOOD AND DRINK Lots of restaurants to suit every palate and pocket, and there are plenty of bars, though in comparison to Hurghada, things are more sedate. The Buzzha Beach Bar is located at Kiteboarding Club and offers a huge menu for hungry kitesurfers. El Gouna as a self-sufficent town, designed from scratch by a single developer, is super clean, friendly and very well set-up for all you could need. NO WIND There’s so much to do Take a boat ride around the lagoons on which the town itself is built or go golfing, sailing, diving, karting, paintballing, ride the cable park, SUP down the lagoons or take a sunset cruise. AIRPORT Hurghada (HRG) about a 30 minute transfer north of Hurghada. Ta is are fairly cheap.

BEER 25EGP RESTAURANT MEAL 180 - 400EGP ACCOMMODATION 700 - 1,500EGP p.p.p.n.

THE KITEBOARDING CLUB EL GOUNA have a long, private section of beach at Buzzha Beach. By far the biggest, shallow lagoon in El Gouna, the centre is open all year and run by a team of VDWS instructors, with helpful beach staff, a rescue boat, three compressors, a kite repair workshop, gear rentals, Buzzha Beach Restaurant and free wifi. www.kiteboarding-club.com elgouna@kiteboarding-club.com +20 122 66 10 878

KITEBOARDING CLUB www.kiteboarding-club.com +49 8677 668 6099 TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489 KITEWORLDWIDE run an all-inclusive Kite Club and accommodation operation in Seahorse Bay which is between Hurghada and El Gouna. www.kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919 Great facilities on the water’s edge PHOTO – KBC El Gouna

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HURGHADA, EGYPT THE LURE The shallow, flat waters and cheap package deals mean that this has long been a favourite with kiters throughout Europe and Egypt’s original kite spot has grown into the Red Sea’s most popular kiting destination. The area is brimming with hotels and the town hosts many bars and clubs. Year-round wind and sun only add to Hurghada’s broad appeal. THE SET-UP Tur uoise waters, white sandbanks and a huge amount of space, the kitesurfing here really is good for learning and it’s easy to see why it has been so popular for so long, ticking all the right bo es for those wanting concentrated time spent improving easy travel, warm water, plenty of regular wind, flat water and lots of facilities for an easy holiday. The water depth gradually drops away and the beginner area on the inside is roughly the size of a football field and about half a metre deep. Beyond that there’s another drop-off to about one-and-a-half metres. Roughly 400 metres from the shoreline the water shelves into the open sea. The areas are tidal and create differences of about half a metre. In e treme low tides beginners move into the slightly deeper areas between the shallows and the open sea. Find all you need onsite at the Tommy Friedl Pro Centres at Jasmin Village and Grand Seas and at the newly opened Harry Nass centre at the Mercure (formerly Sofitel) hotel. The centre at the Magawish hotel is no longer in operation. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The wind comes in cross cross-onshore from the left (north), averaging forces four to si most of the year with the most consistent months for wind being March - October. Air temperatures can get up to 40 C 104 F between those months in the summer, dropping to a

lovely 23 C 73 F in winter. November – February is low season, but there’s still a 60 chance of wind, although it can be changeable in direction, coming totally on- or offshore for a few days at a time, but the prevailing direction is still from the north. E pect water temperatures in the mid-twenties most of the year. Wetsuits are recommended in the winter months and the evenings can become cool enough for a hoody jumper. GET AROUND The kite spots are just a fifteen minute ta i from the town centre. Car hire isn’t recommended as the Egyptian driving style takes some getting used to and ta is and mini-buses are plentiful. You’ll never have to wait more than five minutes for either. If you’re here for kiting, you’re more than likely to stay in a hotel that’s close enough to the beach to not need a hire car anyway. CURRENCY Egyptian pound (EGP) - 1 = EGP12 1 = EGP9 US 1 = EGP7 US dollars, Euros and major credit cards are widely accepted. ACCOMMODATION There are loads of hotels suiting all budgets with great packages from Europe. E cellent childcare facilities in some allow you more time on the water. You may not find everything in town to your taste, but it’s all here. Jasmin Seas hotel

A sandbar kite island PHOTO – Tommy Freidl

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“Flat water, steady winds, warm water and sun are pretty much all you need, but add in the great facilities and the night life and it’s pretty hard to beat!” MARK S I

BEER EGP15 RESTAURANT MEAL EGP80 ACCOMMODATION EGP270

PRO CENTRE JASMIN VILLAGE AND PRO CENTRE GRAND SEAS The Jasmin Village-based centre stocks Core and Carved e uipment and the Grand Seas centre, Cabrinha. Windsurfing is also available as well as SUP, wakeboarding, volleyball and sunset yoga sessions. Both centres have rescue boats, teach all levels with a ma imum 4 1 ratio. The Pro Centres also run a highly recommended one day kitesurfari to the bays and islands around Hurghada for all lovers of tur uoise flat water. Languages spoken by instructors German, English and Russian Accredited by VDWS www.tommy-freidl.de info@tommy-friedl.de +20 100 667 2811

058 / AFRICA / EGYPT / HURGHADA

HARRY NASS twinned with their other centre in Dahab is a newly opened kite and windsurf centre in front of the 4 star Mercure hotel. Teaching all levels all year, beginnners and intermediates get a complimentary boat shuttle upwind to the shallow sandbanks with radio instruction. Also free SUP use, new Cabrinha, JP and Neil Pryde e uipment for use and two rescue boats on hand. Various languages spoken by instructors. Accredited by VDWS www.harry-nass.com info@harry-nass.com +20 69 364 0 559

TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489

Annabel van Westerop enjoying the fantastic training conditions PHOTO – Tommy Freidl

Grand Seas Pro Centre

PHOTO - Harry Nass PHOTO - Harry Nass

FOOD AND DRINK Hurghada is the biggest and liveliest of the Red Sea resorts. If you can’t eat it, drink it or dance to it here, they probably don’t have it in Egypt. NO WIND This may be the original epicentre of kiteboarding in Egypt, but it’s packed with lots of other tourist activities plus wakeboarding and of course the Red Sea has wonderful diving. Head to the Valley of the Kings to see the underground tombs and ancient artwork. Trips to Lu or also easily organised. AIRPORT Hurghada (HRG) is about a ten minute transfer to town. Ta is are fairly cheap and e tremely plentiful.

SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

Kite Center

Kite School

Equipment Introduction, understand kite theory and safety rules. Control the kite on the beach an then in the water.

Kite Rental

The perfect Kitesurﬁng location for all Levels is why the Pro Center has developed into Hurghada’s top kite spot. A wide area of sand and long shallow water area makes our kitebeach attractive for beginners, advanced and experts.

Manage the kite’s power by bodydragging in shallow, warm water.

You’ll get help with launching & landing the kite safely and easily.

Progress to lifting on to the board and managing the kite same time.

The Kitestore is on the beach.

Learn to sail the kiteboard with a controlled kiteﬂy... Enjoy the ride.

The rescue boat is on standby and our staff always watching to assist.

Hurghada - Red Sea Jasmin Village & Grand Seas

www.tommy-friedl.com

060 / AFRICA / EGYPT

/ MARSA ALAM

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EL NAABA, MARSA ALAM, E G Y P T Uncrowded and peaceful holiday riding in El Naaba ALL PHOTOS – Tommy Friedl Pro Center

THE LURE 220 kilometres south of Hurghada you’ll find El Naaba in Marsa Alam. Far away from mass tourism on the edge of the desert, it’s a playground paradise for watersports lovers of all levels and those looking for a simple, peaceful and rela ing holiday. THE SET-UP A round, potato-shaped reef a hundred metres off shore protects the beach from shorebreak and focuses the waves out on the reef, separating two bays Beach Bay and Surfers Bay. Kitesurfing and windsurfing take place in the Surfers Bay and there’s even an additional kite lagoon with no windsurfers or swimmers. No matter your level you’ll find great conditions for learning, flying and jumping and even some wave riding directly out front of the kite center at Giant Bay. Advanced freestylers can also enjoy the flat water, even in strong winds, as the tur oise blue waters are protected by the reef. The first 50 metres are shallow and easy to launch from and the first waves can be reached 200 metres out. The waves run cross-shore with the wind and outside the bay can get bigger on the really good days – up to two or three metres. Surfers Bay is suitable for riders at waterstart levels who are riding upwind as there are also windsurfers sharing this lagoon, but there’s enough space for everyone. The waves in this section are small and weak, allowing less e perienced riders to ride without worry. The one kilometre kite lagoon is a superb alternative for both beginners and advanced riders with its’ glassy waters. Kite safely here, even in strong winds. You can land your kite anywhere around the lagoon and walk back to your starting point. There are a few sharp stones, so it’s recommended to wear shoes. Tommy Friedl Pro Center run a shuttle service twice a day between the hotel and lagoon that takes ten minutes. You can also walk back which takes 30 minutes, or pay for a private transfer. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Cross onshore winds here through the best season from

March through to October. The air temperature averages 20 - 30 C 68 - 86 F. You’ll need a short arm steamer in winter, March to May a shorty and from May to September just boardshorts. Winter water temperature 20 C 68 F, spring autumn 25 77 F and summer 28 82 F. GET AROUND Port Ghalib is a well developed tourist area with evening entertainment and dining. The whole area has a very rela ed atomosphere and natural e periences are the main focus of people’s stay here. CURRENCY Egyptian pound (EGP) - 1 = EGP11 US 1 = EGP7.

BEER EGP17 RESTAURANT MEAL EGP87 ACCOMMODATION EGP305 p.p.p.n.

THE TOMMY FRIEDL PRO CENTER teach all levels in windsurfing and kitesurfing all year at a ma ratio 4 1. Cabrinha, Core, NP sails and JP boards are available for rent, there is a repair service on site and they also provide safety boat cover. Languages spoken by staff English, German, Russian and Arabic. www.tommy-friedl.de info@tommy-friedl.de +20 100 66 72 811

1 = EGP9

ACCOMMODATION The Three Corners E uino Beach Resort is closest to the spot with professional service and e cellent Belgian cuisine. Freshly renovated and with a nice comple design, the hotel’s e tensive beach area leads you directly to the Pro Center. FOOD AND DRINK Dine at the hotel or at the marina and there are also some small shops and a supermarket inside the hotel. NO WIND SUP, yoga, beach volleyball, slacklining at the Pro Center where there is also a bar which is the location for movie nights on the beach. El Naaba is also a great place for snorkelling and diving. AIRPORT El Naaba is just 30 kilometres south of the airport in Marsa Alam (RMF) and Hurghada airport is 220 kilometres away. Tour operators, as well as the Pro Center, offer transfers from both airports or there are ta is available.

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SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

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Marsa Alam - Red Sea: Three Corners Equinox

www.tommy-friedl.com

062

Waves Village, The Pamlico Sound, Outer Banks, USA PHOTO â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kiteworld

063

the americas FEATURING: Icaraizinho, Brazil PHOTO – Villa Mango Amityville, NYC, USA PHOTO – New York Kite Center

USA BRAZIL URUGUAY CHILE

Pupuya, Chile PHOTO – Dunas de Pupuya

Jericoacoara, Brazil PHOTO – Kitestrophik Corpus Christi, USA PHOTO – Kynan Stevenson 361 Kite

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GREAT SOUTH BAY LONG ISLAND, NYC THE LURE Kiteboarding just outside New York City Yes, sir. And look at the pictures, it’s incredible. Just an hour’s train ride from Penn station and the bustling metropolis of Manhattan delivers you to world class kiteboarding with miles of shallow, butter-flat water in the bay and large sandy beaches and good waves on the ocean. THE SET-UP The Great South Bay (GSB) is the premiere kiteboarding location in the tri-state area. Offering miles of butter-flat waist-deep water akin to the legendary slicks of North Carolina and there are kite-able conditions in every wind direction. Discover literally miles of ocean facing beaches and several wave spots that work in both onshore and side-on wind directions. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The GSB is rideable from March through until December best months April to November. Wind speed varies from 15 – 30mph and is predominantly southerly in the main season and northerly during the winter. Nine to 15 metre kites for the majority of kiteable days. The GSB is predominantly a flat water spot though there can be some outstanding waves outside the bay, especially during the hurricane swells of summer and early fall. The winter fires with consistent, large swells but it’s very cold. Neoprene is useful throughout the year as this is the North Atlantic. In the summer ride in boardshorts or a shorty as the water temp reaches 21ºC 70ºF and in the spring and early autumn a full 3 2 spring suit. However, in the winter you’ll need a lot more rubber, hoods and gloves. Daytime summer air temperatures peak at 26 – 32ºC 78 - 90ºF. It’s not uncommon for it to snow here in the depths of winter. This allows for snowkite lesson options GET AROUND Public transport is very accessible. If you’re staying in New York City then take the train to Amityville and then a five minute ta i ride from the station to the main spot at NY Kite Center. If you’re staying more locally then buses are reliable and there are lots of ta is. If you want to get out of New York and go further afield, hire a car. CURRENCY US Dollar ( ) - 1 = 1.5

1 = 1.2

ACCOMMODATION There are a handful of hotels within ten minutes of the kite spot. If you head west you’ll find yourself heading back

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NYC shopping trips will never be the same again

towards NYC and driving east will take you towards the Hamptons, Montauk, the north shore and beyond. In either direction you’ll find a vast array of accommodation options from motels to five star golf retreats that will suit any budget. FOOD AND DRINK Amityville has stacks of restaurants, bars and supermarkets within a five minute drive from the kite spot. You can’t go wrong with Cornucopia’s Noshery in Amityville for breakfast or lunch but if you journey into NYC itself then the culinary world is your oyster As the locals say, you can find the best of everything here NO WIND This is New York and it’s literally impossible to get bored If you still want to get in the water then NY Kite Center has SUP and surfboards for hire and some of the local beaches kick up good surfing waves. Out of the water, Long Island has over 50 wineries to get stuck into, so that’s certainly a fun way to pass an afternoon or two. ‘The Big Apple’ is only an hour’s train journey away and should need no introduction as to its lures. You’d need to stay for a year just to scratch the surface. AIRPORT More international airports than just about any city in the world. John F. Kennedy (JFK) is 40 minutes from Amityville, LaGuardia (LGA) is 50 minutes, Newark (EWR) is 75 minutes and MacArthur (ISP) is the closest at just a 20 minute drive from Amityville. The AirTrain from JFK to the Long Island railroad is easily navigated, taking you to within a five minute ta i ride from NY Kite Center.

BEER 4.50 RESTAURANT MEAL 15 - 20 ACCOMMODATION 165

NY KITE CENTER is the biggest school retailer in the northeast USA. Teaching all levels (including up to training IKO instructors) on a 2 1 ratio on North, Cabrinha, Slingshot, Best and a choice of lots more gear. Jet-skis and safety boats on lessons and ‘no wind’ board skill lessons on ‘boomtime’ boat apparatus. Snowkiting lessons in winter. Certified by IKO www.nykitecenter.com info@nykitecenter.com +1 (631) 691-0793

So much flat water with interesting marsh islands to rip between PHOTOS – NY Kite Center

The brightest lights offer an amazing combo kite trip

“Leaving the last toll out of NY City I felt right at home on the west end of Long Island. Marsh islands and flat water as far as I could see, so distant from the hustle and bustle!” E A ETSC , CA RI A RO RIDER

WORLD CLASS RIDING CONDITIONS AND ONLY AN HOUR TRAIN RIDE FROM PENN STATION, NEW YORK CITY!

NY Kite Center 334 S. Bayview Ave Amityville, NY 11701

631 691 0793

info@nykitecenter.com www.nykitecenter.com

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/ O U T ER BANKS

OUTER BANKS CAPE HATTERAS, NORTH CAROLINA THE LURE If you were able to custom design a kiteboarding location from scratch, you couldn’t come up with a much better set-up. Hatteras Island, 40 miles off the US mainland (accessible by road bridges), has heaps of locations for flat water and surf kiteboarding. The uni ue bend in Hatteras island, combined with consistent, clean winds and open access to the water make this place difficult to beat. Imagine shallow water to the horizon in every direction on the sound side (west side of the island) – that’s the Pamlico Sound with flat water riding areas that are waist-deep seven miles out and up to 60 miles north and south. Drop your kite and stand up, or just take a rest – the thousands of newly ualified riders prove that this is without doubt one of the best places to learn. Want waves Simply hop over the island strip to the east coast. The launch at Real during the Triple-S event

The whole area is home to some of the finest downwinders you could hope for.

Take your riding to the ne t level in Hatteras where you can specialise in hitting features. Jason Slezak demonstrating the skills during the Triple-S ALL PHOTOS – Kiteworld, unless stated otherwise 100 90 80 70 60 50 40

THE SET-UP The Outer Banks has above-average wind conditions in the US and blows pretty-much all year long. Mi in the choice of kiting terrain and this is one of the most ideal and progressive kiting environments in the world. Suitable from rank beginner to pro level flat water and surf kiteboarding. With well over 140 miles of coastline and nearly unlimited access to the water, there are hundreds of uality kiteboarding spots to check out. No currents in the flat water and the surf kiting is world class with a variety of wave heights, sandy bottom and you have a massive swell window that accepts waves from any direction, e cept due west.

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More riding hours go down here than you can imagine

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Kitty Hawk’s free launch site

BEER 2 - 5 RESTAURANT 7 – 30 ACCOMMODATION 30 – 100 p.p.p.n.

Surrounding both the Waves Village Watersports Resort and Real’s Waterman’s Retreat are miles and miles of shallow water, that not only heats up uickly, but has a hard sandy bottom with few shells. Even before beginners can stand up on their board they can stand in the water and usually sit down on the bottom with their head above water while they slip into their foot straps. Over 70 consecutive miles of oceanside coastline and dozens of miles of clean sound side launching landing areas create an almost incalculable number of routes for downwinders, which are the fastest way to progress. Often you’ll see students being coached from close uarters by an instructor following them on a jetski. The progress levels here are incredible. Marsh areas and small islands in the sound provide a natural obstacle course for more e perienced kiters and also create ‘slicks’ that are completely flat and wave free. You’ll never have to fight off a crowd here due to the massive amount of open space to play with. Due to the bend in the island, no matter what direction the wind is from, you can find side-shore conditions, both in the Atlantic Ocean and the Pamlico Sound. Cape Hatteras also sits well away from the mainland and any large buildings or cities. This means all wind directions provide steady, stable wind flow with consistent wind speeds. Some of the most sought after spots to look out for include Canadian Hole north of Bu ton on Hatteras Island, Pea Island (from Waves Village to New Inlet), Planet of the Apes and Nags Head at Windmill Point and Jockey’s Ridge. On the oceanside check out S-curves just north of Rodanthe as well as oceanside around the Bu ton and Cape Hatteras lighthouse area. S-curves

and Rodanthe in particular provide some of the best waves on the east coast. The whole area makes for classic downwinders, but make sure you pick up a downwinder guide from one of the kiteboarding shops - there are some areas that you don’t want to come in as there’s dense bush between the water and road. Get a map, plan your route, bring your buddies or join a group and you’ll wonder why you would ever want to kite backwards and forwards at one spot ever again WIND, WATER AND WEATHER The winds here are remarkable. Because the Outer Banks Hatteras Island runs mostly straight north to south and the wind mostly blows from the southwest (during summer months) and northeast (during winter months), it allows kiteboarders to ride on nearly any day, oceanside or sound side, as it’s possible to ride all directions here somewhere. The best time of year for all round riding is the spring and fall autumn, although the winter and summer are also e cellent. Wind stats show that you can kite here on average 20 days a month, 12 months a year, with June and July being the most consistent and warmest with an average of 29 ridable days per month Learning can be done all year, however summer is usually more popular when a wetsuit isn’t necessary. June to September are the classic months. March to May and October to December you might need anything from boardshorts to a 4 3, in winter you’ll need a 5 3 full suit with boots and gloves, but there will be days when a thinner suit will be fine. Bring your entire uiver of kites. In the same week you could use all of them, but you’ll get

KITTY HAWK KITES KITEBOARDING SCHOOL teach all levels April to November, usually at a ratio 3 1 and students are followed on boat or jet-ski. They have an enormous demo centre with virtually everything they sell in the shop or tech centre for you to try. Off-site rentals also available. Accommodations and shop open year round. www.wavesvillage.com sales@wavesvillage.com Lessons +1 252 987 2297 Accommodation +1 252 305 2629 REAL KITEBOARDING have 25 full time coaches teaching twice a day, seven days per week, beginner through to pro level. Ma ratio is 2 1 and all lessons run with jet-ski support. The latest gear from A on, Best, BWS, Li uid Force, Naish and Slingshot is available for rent. Also offered is accommodation at Waterman’s Retreat, camps, air compressors, hot showers, changing rooms, lockers, live music and more. Languages spoken by staff English, Spanish, French, German and Italian. www.realwatersports.com realpro@realwatersports.com +1 866 REAL 548 +1 252 987 6000 Cape Hatteras lighthouse

View of the island from the Cape Hatteras lighthouse

The accommodation rental options are phenomenal

T H I S I S C A P E H AT T E R A S

W W W. R E A L W A T E R S P O R T S . C O M

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most use out of your eight or nine. Fall autumn and spring are typically the best times for waves. Cape Hatteras is only 25 miles from the Gulfstream current with water temperatures roughly 18 C 65 F in the spring, 29 C 85 F in the summer, 18 C 65 F in the fall and 10 C 50 F in the winter. This warm water tempers the winter months and keeps the area very mild compared to locations just to the north or the south. Air temperatures are tropical in the summer, reaching the mid-high 90s (35ºC) in July and August with wider swings in the fall, winter and spring. Best to bring layers and a wind shell to have the temperature swings covered. GET AROUND If you’re staying in Waves Village you’re in the centre of the ‘tri-village’ area of Rodanthe, Waves, and Salvo. Nags Head is 30 minutes north and Avon is about 20 minutes south by car. It’s best to rent a car so you have mobility up and down the island to find the perfect combination of wind angle, surf, etc. The island is about 70 miles long, all one highway, and you could be sessionning the entire area during one trip. You can rent 4WD - get an off-road driving permit and find private sessions every day. There is some

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distance in between towns and travelling from town to town on Hatteras Island can take some time, but usually about 15 minutes between each. CURRENCY US Dollar ( ) - 1 = 1.5

View from your private hot tub at Waves Village Resort Mile upon mile of warm-water chest deep freeriding on the Pamlico Sound

1 = 1.2

ACCOMMODATION Cape Hatteras has 70 miles of accommodations, from campgrounds, to simple beach motels to lu ury waterfront condos, to 12 bedroom beach mansions. Sun Realty have large vacation properties for rent directly on the waterfront with pools and hot tubs Check their range at www. sunrealtync.com. Each area’s community is very laid back and friendly and things only get more rela ed the further south you head towards Cape Hatteras. Geographically, where you stay should be based on where you want to ride and who you want to hang out with. Check with Real and Kitty Hawk Kites to get the full low down and get a riding map from them when you get there as you don’t want to miss out Waves Village Watersports Resort has 1,600 s foot lu ury condos (3-bedroom, 3-bathroom units) with on-site

Grillin’ and chillin’ at Waves Village

Ryan Evans carving it up on the ocean side

Looking upwind beyond the Good Winds restaurant balcony at Waves Village

restaurants, shopping and free activities during the summer. Condos include private balconies with an unobstructed view of the water and breathtaking sunsets, private hot tub, community pool, cable TV, free Wi-Fi, hot water outdoor showers, changing rooms and much more. The launch site at Waves Village is open to the public at no cost (a signed waiver is re uired). Compressed air for kite inflation and hot showers for kiters to use after their session are also free of charge. Weekly demo days in the summer provide you with the opportunity to test drive the latest gear before you buy. Weekly summer Kids Days are also a highlight for families. Real’s Watermen’s Retreat features 14 lu ury waterfront condominiums located right at ‘The Slick’ with private launch, air compressors, live outdoor music, gear storage, pro shop, rental shop and bar restaurant all right onsite. Watermen’s Retreat shares this site with Real Watersports and the two are the hosts of the annual Triple-S Invitational – one of the sport’s biggest international and most high profile events of the year. The Triple-S will be having its tenth anniversary celebrations this year.

FOOD AND DRINK There are grocery stores and restaurants littered along the whole area. Almost any accommodation you choose will be very well set up for your self-catering cooking entertaining, and many of the houses condos you won’t want to leave Kiting here is about hanging with friends and rela ing when you’re not kiting your ass off, and the rentals here are well geared up for that. You’ll find a big Food Lion supermarket in Avon, or plenty more back up the road in Nags Head. There are a lot of options to eat out in Waves, Avon and Bu ton. You won’t find a massively international flair in the cuisine, but you can be sure of big servings of fresh seafood, steaks, pizza, the odd Me ican, some sushi and American classics, all washed down with plenty of domestic and international beers on tap. Eating in or out isn’t super cheap - this is an island - but you won’t go hungry Be aware, however, that things really uieten down after 9pm and there are no nightclubs. You make your own party. For a more lively evening e perience head back up to Nags Head.

071 NO WIND With as little as 5mph of wind you can go hang gliding with Kitty Hawk Kites at Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head, NC (it’s minutes from where the Wright brothers chose for their first flight). There’s also jet-skiing, SUP, kayak tours and sailing. Cape Hatteras lighthouse and Pea Island Wildlife Refuge provide some fun afternoons out... if you can pull yourself away from the beach. For the kids there are camps and more – it’s an incredible place to get away from video games. There’s also fishing, e cellent surfing, go-karting, movie theatres, heaps of shopping opportunities and spas. If you’re a kid, big or small, this place rocks for activities and the outdoors AIRPORT Norfolk, VA (ORF KORF) is roughly 90 minutes drive from the Outer Banks and the Nags Head area. Add another 30 minutes to make it further south to Hatteras. Other options slightly further away are Newport News, Virginia (PHF) or Raleigh, NC (RDU).

Sam Light on his way to a win at the Triple-S

Wave Village Watersports Resort condos

07 2 / A M E R I C A S : U SA / T E X A S / C O R P U S C H R I S T I

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J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

CORP US CHRISTI, TEXAS

Steven Barrett, Portland. Huge variety of conditions, from open ocean, to shallow water and slicks in the marina PHOTO – Susan Farrell

THE LURE Corpus Christi boasts arguably the largest amount of kite-able days year round in the continental United States. Featuring a wide variety of conditions, from the pristine shallow flat waters of the Laguna Madre to the windy overhead surf on the Te as Gulf Coast, Corpus Christi and South Te as have something for everyone. THE SET-UP Centrally located and a few hours drive from the major metropolitan areas of San Antonio, Austin or Houston, South Padre and from the Me ican US border, Corpus Christi is known for consistent winds, moderate temperatures and shallow waters. Miles upon miles of coastline is accessible by vehicles and the crowds are almost non-e istent. Corpus Christi Bay has almost 200 s uare miles of area to e plore and the locals run a Friday Night Bay Crossing (7 mile round trip) from Wildcat Park to North Beach and back. The barrier island of North Padre down Highway 361 also offers the flat and shallow waters of the Upper Laguna Madre with secluded breaks and downwinder start points further down the beach. Friendly kiters, a grassy launch and fresh water shower at Violet Andrews Park (Wildcat Park) by the Corpus Christi Bay in Portland when the wind blows SE and ESE during the spring and summer months. Grassy Point by the marina on the Laguna Madre is also popular. Daily access 4 per day at the marina office. The marina (www.BluffsLanding.com) has all services, restrooms, parking and a restaurant bar on site. The water is only about thigh to waist deep depending on tides with miles of open water. North Packery and South Packery are the main public access beaches and gathering spots for kiters in Corpus Christi on North Padre Island. North and South are divided by the Packery Channel with corresponding jetties on either side. Cleanest wave faces will be at North Packery in the sping summer E and SE winds. As frontal winds come in from the N and NE in the winter, South Packery becomes the choice. This is just a taster. Tap up a local kiter for the inside scoop WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Year round kiting here. Prime season is March - August with consistent thermal S and SE winds coming in the early afternoon and increasing into the evening. ‘March Madness’ produces 20+ mph for days on end Outside of this time you’re still looking at a 19mph average. Cold fronts sweep through South Te as from September - March April bringing

cool air and several days of 20 - 40mph winds from the north, allowing access to some fantastic kiting launches that are not ideal in the spring summer winds. Average air temperatures 58 F 14 C low to an average high of 85 F 29 C during the summer. Average water temperatures peak around 82 - 86 F 28 - 30 C around August September, dipping to 61 - 70 F 16 - 21 C in January February. Boardshorts or spring suit neoprene top most of the year. Bring warmer layers for the post-session windchill in the winter months, but nothing too serious

“Big beaches and friendly people, Corpus Christi offers a great place for a family vacation with lots of activities as well as very good kiting for all styles!” DAMIE LERO , CA RI

GET AROUND Te as is a big ol’ place so rent a vehicle to get the most out of your stay and hit the multitude of spots. CURRENCY US Dollar ( ) - 1 = 1.5 1 = 1.2 Credit and debit cards accepted with ATMs in plentiful supply. ACCOMMODATION From beachside resort condos to budget motels and RV parks, Corpus Christi has lodgings to fit every budget from 50 - 200 per night. FOOD AND DRINK All the regular choices and good Me ican restaurants on every corner Look out for Padre Island Burger Co or Mikel Mays Beachside Bar Grill at Bob Hall Pier. On the mainland check out Howard’s BB and for something different Bamboo Counter and Pho Saigon have great Asian Vietnamese offerings. The E ecutive Surf Club is goo d for live music downtown, as well as the House of Rock and Dr. Rockits. NO WIND Lots to keep the family busy. Highlights include Te as State A uarium, the floating battleship museum ‘The Le ington’ and Schlitterbahn Waterpark. There’s also jetskiing or SUP, surfing, fishing trips, dolphin watching, the world class Cole Park skate park or just rela ing by the pool. AIRPORT Corpus Christi International airport (CRP) is centrally located and just a short drive to the nearest kite launch and various accommodation options. San Antonio International (SAT) is a 2.5 hour drive and Austin Bergstrom airport (AUS) a 3.5 hour drive.

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A RO RIDER

BEER 3 RESTAURANT MEAL 10 - 15 ACCOMMODATION 50 - 200 p.p.p.n.

361KITE operate all year, providing safe and professional lessons for all levels in the Corpus Christi and surrounding South Te as area. Instructors are PASA certified and teach in calm, shallow waters at a student’s own pace. Private or group lessons are available. www.361KITE.com info@361KITE.com +1 (361) 742-7966

PHOTO - Scott Hubbartt

PHOTO - Kynan Stevenson

07 4 / A M E R I C A S : U SA / T E X A S / S O U T H P A D R E I SLAND

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J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

S O U T H PADRE I S LA ND, TE X AS “Steady wind and a good ol’ southern vibe. A great place to go and kite your brains out and there’s some fun surf too!” SK SOL

AC Rip flat water slicks or waves on the ocean side – SPI has it all, and some immense sunsets, too PHOTO – Paul Sheetz Air Padre

THE LURE A truly classic USA destination. You name it SPI has it This small beach city’s focus is on outdoor activities. Superb wind, a million acres of flat, shallow, warm Gulf waters, warm air and water temperatures as well as a lack of crowds make this a kiter’s dream (although you’ll definitely find a good party ).

from northern states, the south winds are sucked in from the Caribbean, often blowing 20 knots for several days. As the north front reaches Te as, the direction switches 180 degrees and it nukes from the north at 35+ knots. April to November boardshorts light wetsuit weather. Summer temps can reach 32 C 90 F. Year round average water temps 25 C 77 F. Bring all your kites – you’ll use ‘em

THE SET-UP The island runs almost straight north to south and is less than a mile wide. Choose from sheltered butter-flats on the Laguna Madre Bay side, to head-high, pitching waves in the Gulf of Me ico. Laguna Madre Bay on the west side has over a million acres of flat, shallow waters. Wherever you put your kite down you’ll be able to touch the bottom. The main launches on this side are just north of town, starting with the south flats. A sandy bottom and shallow blue water make this a premier kite spot in northeast to northwest winds. Up the road the north flats work in 360 degrees of wind, but costs 15 per month or 25 per year for access. Passes and local advice available at the kite shops. The wind is generally stronger towards the middle of the eight mile bay - join the local shop’s guided downwinders as they’ll take you straight to the wind. For surf, the Gulf of Me ico provides 15 miles of coastline with side-shore winds. Intermediate to advanced riders can shred chest to head-high, steep, fast and smackable waves. Pitching more on the inside and remaining mellower beyond the first couple of sand bars, you can really choose your desired gradient. Do a downwinder, hop in a cab and do it all again

GET AROUND SPI has good local transportation, but hiring a car is recommended to make the most of spots and sights.

WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The winds average 17 knots all year The busiest kite seasons are spring (March to June with ridiculously consistent thermals mid-summer) and fall autumn (September to November) when the weather and water temperatures are still warm. August through early October is tropical hurricane season and can be unpredictable. As cold fronts approach between September and November

CURRENCY US Dollar ( ) - 1 = 1.5

1 = 1.2

ACCOMMODATION All you’d e pect for a destination resort set-up for tourism, from budget motels to houses for the family. FOOD AND DRINK Driving down Padre Blvd, look out for Blackbeard’s Padre Island Brewing Co. and Captain Roy’s D’Pizza Joint. Three supermarkets for self catering. Nightlife is at the south end of the island with bars lined side-by-side - try Louie’s Backyard or Wanna Wanna. Best views of the technicolour sunsets with tasty cocktails at Laguna Bob’s, Te uila Sunset or Palm St. Pier. More conveniences etc. are a 30-minute drive inland to Brownsville. NO WIND The best surf in the Gulf of Me ico. Scuba diving, snorkelling, SUPing, jet-skiing, dune buggies, fishing, sailing, sky diving and dolphin watching are also great fun. A 3 cab will take you to any place or activity on the island. The Me ican border is just 15 miles south... AIRPORT Brownsville airport (BRO) is 30 minutes inland, Harlington airport (HRL) is 45 minutes away and McAllen (MFE), 90.

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BEER 3 RESTAURANT MEAL 10 ACCOMMODATION 30 per night

AIR PADRE KITEBOARDING is the premier centre on SPI, offering camps and lessons, beginner – advanced, year round. Support boats and radio helmets for every student. Surfing, SUP, kayaking and wakeboarding also offered, as well as a kite repair service and large selection of multi-sport rental gear. Accredited by IKO and PASA www.airpadrekiteboarding.com sales@airpadre.com +1 956 299 9463 PROKITE SOUTH PADRE teach all levels all year using Headzone waterproof radio helmet teaching aids and also have a jet-ski support on every lesson. They also offer supervised sessions, gear rental, gear sales, guided tours and photo video services. They also have an operation in Hood River. Accredited by IKO PASA www.prokitesouthpadre.com info@prokitesouthpadre.com +1 554 5483 (855 SPI KITE)

PHOTO – Brian Goldesberry Kiteworld

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07 6 / A M E R I C A S : U SA / H A W A I I / M A U I

100 90 80

“There are only a few places in the world that have the wind, waves and first class lifestyle that Maui provides.” ATRI MCLA G LI , ORT RO RIDER

70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

MA U I

H AWA I I

THE SET-UP The main kite beaches are in an industrial section of Kahului on Amala Place. The first parking lot is Teach Beach (AKA Kimo’s) with an uninterrupted area downwind past the industrial buildings. The launch can be a bit tricky, so observe other kiters and familiarise yourself with the area. Between Teach Beach and The Keyhole (lower end of Old Man’s) is the world-famous ‘Pro Beach’, marked as Ka’a Point on the map. Sheltered with butter flat waters it’s only for advanced riders as the launch area is tiny and in a wind shadow. Over a small bridge to the ne t parking lot is the e cellent beginner intermediate area of Kite Beach called Kanaha with a small camping area, showers and restrooms. A ua Sports Maui meet their students at the upper part of this beach where there’s a wide, sandy launch. Further offshore large north and west swells pound the reef September to May (winter) from Pier One to the west, the ‘Boneyard’ in the middle and

‘Lowers’ to the east. Closer to shore they re-form and set up a fun zone to ride waves or pop off the ramps. Thirty minutes away are Ho’okipa and Lanes. No kitesurfing at Ho’okipa, but advanced riders looking for a challenge with up-to-date insurance may want to check out Lanes. Launch and land by crossing a very tricky reef - it’s serious. In the right winds Kihei on the south side can be good for intermediates and above. Riding on the west side of the island is limited, so speak to a local rider before trying to ride there. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Warm weather, water and year-long side to side-onshore trade winds blow from the northeast. Summertime stronger winds (sometimes over 30 knots) with small to no surf (June to August). Winter has better waves but can be wetter and least reliable winds. Occasional west and Kona winds (south south east) November to April. E pect to use your nine metre the most. Boardshorts in summer thin neoprene top in the winter. Average year round water temps of mid-70s around 24 C. GET AROUND Everything is between 30 - 40 minutes from everything else and ta is are e pensive and unreliable, so hire a car (from the airport) to get the most out of the island. CURRENCY US Dollar ( ) - 1 = 1.5 1 = 1.2 Lots of ATMs and credit cards accepted nearly everywhere. ACCOMMODATION A good range, but Hawaii isn’t cheap. Lu ury world-class resorts in Wailea through to budget vacation rentals and back-packer hostels. Best places to stay on the North Shore in the heart of the surf scene are Paia, Kuau or Sprecklesville and are not as touristy or developed as other areas.

knots

BEER 4 average RESTAURANT MEAL 10 – 24 and up ACCOMMODATION 100 – 150 on average per room, but varies greatly.

A UA SPORTS MAUI teach all levels all year at a ma ratio of 2 1, specialising in one on one private lessons, customised for the student. Teaching on and renting out North, Cabrinha and Airush gear, they also offer instructor training, kite repairs, discount on surf SUP lessons and purchases. Languages spoken by staff A wide variety, arranged in advance. www.mauikiteboardinglessons.com nsksmaui@gmail.com +1 (808) 242 8015

SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

FOOD AND DRINK The main kite spots are on the edge of Kahului town, just a mile from the nearest shopping centre with supermarkets and health food shops. Paia is packed with restaurants, the fish market and Mana Foods healthfood store. Nightlife usually shuts down between 10pm and midnight. NO WIND Any water and air sport you can think of, plus insane golf courses, whale watching, waterfalls, the Haleakela Crater, a ferry to Lanai or Molokai, farmer’s markets, botanical gardens, art galleries, upcountry wine tasting tours or simply sun bathing AIRPORT Kahului (OGG) is five minutes from the main kite spots.

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078 / AMERICAS: SOUTH AMERICA / BRAZIL / TREMEMBE BEACH

90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10

TREMEMBE BEACH, ,

iCApui, BRAZiL THE LURE Featuring flat water to little waves, warm water and an authentic Brazilian ambience, Tremembe is something of a dream spot All followed up by uality, healthy food with friendly, like-minded people. THE SET-UP The shallow water makes it safe and easy for beginners and a fantastic place to bust out tricks for advanced kiters. Tremembe is tidal, so there’s plenty of variety along this diverse and varied stretch of coastline and with thousands of kilometres of accessible beach to e plore you can e pect to find plenty of hidden spots and lagoons. Afternoon winds are onshore so it’s easy to downwind. Mangrove, a fantastic place to snap some breathtaking riding shots, is five kilometres away. Four kilometres the other way is Pei e Gordo (‘Fat Fish’ in English), a nice little wave spot that novice wave riders will love. Redonda, 16 kilometres away, is primarily suited to more advanced riders due to being a tidal spot, though kicks up some small but very rippable waves (on a full moon). Further afield (if you can handle some major back-leg uad burn) a 36 kilometre downwind mission will get you to an epic flat water spot called Pernambu uinho that works best on a half moon. If you want to venture even further then there’s the awesome flat water of Lagoa de Uruau, a 90 minute drive towards Fortaleza, and Galinhos and Barra do Cunhau can be found heading towards Natal. An hour north of here is the Kiteboarding Club centre in Parajuru www.kiteboarding-club.com WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Mid-September through November it blows 24 hours a day Averaging 15-18 knots in the mornings from 06.30 to 10.30, building to reach 18-22 knots in the afternoons allowing you to ride till dark in strong cross-onshore winds. Due to the tides there’s a lot of variation flat, shallow water at low tide and chop and small waves at higher tides with biggest waves and tides in January February. Water temps of around 32 C 90 F year round. Three degrees below the e uator, Icapui has a tropical climate and is split into two seasons - the rainy season (February to May) is a bit less kite friendly with dying wind, increased humidity... and mos uitoes

GET AROUND Tremembe is small. Private ta is are easy to find and reasonably priced. There’s a local bus service, too. Car, 4 4 or beach buggy rental can be arranged through the Kite Mansion, in the nearby Icapui or in Fortaleza airport. To venture down the coast, a 4 4 or beach buggy is advisable instead of a car. Plan your route to avoid any dodgy areas. CURRENCY Brazilian Reais (R ) - 1 = R 4 1 = R 3 US = R 2.6 There are ATMs in Icapui and some places may take credit cards but not all. ACCOMMODATION The main accommodation here is the Kite Mansion pousada and kite club located directly by the beach. Two types of lodging traditional bungalows and rooms in the main building. Both are simple but well appointed and clean. FOOD AND DRINK The Kite Mansion has a wide variety of dishes on offer from freshly caught seafood to more international dishes as well as regular barbe ues. This region has its own speciality called Lagosta and the fisherman are only allowed to fish for it from June to December, so try it if you get a chance. There are other bars and places to eat in Icapui seven kilometres away. NO WIND No wind is rare, but there’s a huge e panse of coastline to e plore either on foot, by horse or by SUP and the surf season brings a steady supply of waves as the wind becomes less reliable. Be aware that while Tremembe’s surrounding area is comparatively safe, this is still Brazil so use common sense in unfamiliar areas. 45 kilometres from Tremembe is Canoa uebrada a small fishing village hidden away among dunes and cliffs with spectacular views. Known as Broadway, it’s highly treasured by the Ceara tourist board and comes alive at night, particularly during carnival season AIRPORT Fortaleza airport (FOR), otherwise known as Pinto Martinez, is 220 kilometres from the pousada a two-anda-half hour ta i ride which the Kite Mansion can arrange for you for 100. A bus is much cheaper ( 10) but takes four or five hours.

Serious riding hours are logged here

J F M A M J J A S O N D

ercentage of days with wind over force

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BEER Local R 4 Caiprinha R 5 RESTAURANT MEAL R 22 ACCOMMODATION R 105 - 130

THE KITE MANSION founders Sam and Nico have ten years teaching e perience and offer everything from beginner to advanced lessons, covering wakestyle, freestyle, old school, strapless wave riding, wave freestyle and even wakeskate riding. Using helmet mounted radios Kite Mansion is an official Best school with a full fleet of rentals available. www.kitemansion.com info@kitemansion.com info@tremembebeach.com +55 88 9291 3511

KITEBOARDING CLUB www.kiteboarding-club.com +49 8677 668 6099 Beachfront living ALL PHOTOS – Kite Mansion

Kite Mansion

08 0 / A M E R I C A S : S OU T H A M E R I C A / B R A Z I L / I C ARAIZINHO

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J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

ICARAIZINHO, BRAZIL THE LURE Situated between Paracuru and Jericoacoara means you can e pect an incredible predictability of wind here. Icaraizinho de Amontada village is a simple place with very welcoming people, offering small shops, a pharmacy, a church, some small restaurants and a spacious, sandy si kilometre stretch of beach. Discovered by windsurfers and more recently kitesurfers looking to ride in peaceful surroundings and do not much other than sail kite every day, this spot is ideal if your re uirements are the same. THE SET-UP A beautiful half crescent bay features a range of conditions, with perfect flat water slalom on the southeast end, bump and jump in the middle and one to two metre waves jacking up at the north end of the bay. The beach itself is unspoiled with nice, soft sand, no shells, no pebbles and plenty of space to launch and land your kites. There are two fantastic, classic downwinders that aren’t too demanding but offer different conditions. Caetanos to Icaraizinho is appro imately 15 kilometres with good waves along the way. Icaraizinho to Aracatiassu river mouth is slightly shorter at 13 kilometres and features small waves and superb flat water at low tide in the river mouth. Mango Kite Club organise downwinders and guidance for these two great routes that suit both e perienced riders and those on their first downwinders. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Sunny and warm, the air temperature is hot at 35 C 95 F in the main season, and the water 30 C 86 F, however it stays incredibly warm all year and the only protection you’ll ever need is sun cream. July to January are the windiest months, and thankfully feels a little cooler than the air temperature reads, averaging 20 - 25 knots from the east, peaking August to November when it ramps up to 25 to 40 knots. The rainy season (February to June) has less wind. GET AROUND Icaraizinho is a small, simple fishing village with some basic, but limited amenities. There are no ATMs (get cash at the airport or before you travel) and there is no hospital just a small clinic that offers a limited service and a small pharmacy. The nearest hospital is in Itapipoca, 80

knots

Sunrise, Icaraizinho style PHOTO – VillaMango

kilometres away. You don’t need a hire car for Icaraizinho, (unless you want to go and stay at other kite spots along the coast while on your trip) and VillaMango can organise an airport transfer for you (as well as trips to other beaches). CURRENCY Brazilian Reais (R ) - 1 = R 4

1 = R 3 US = R 2.6

ACCOMMODATION VillaMango is a charming hotel one kilometre from the village centre 15 minutes walk along the beach. Stay in the hotel or the bungalows and you’ll find yourself completely integrated into your surroundings. The hotel operates as sustainably as it can with efficient appliances, ecological drains and renewable power. Built from certified wood and eucalyptus trees from a reforestation programme, the bungalows set on stilts are private, e tremely comfortable and provide a wonderful sense of freedom and tran uility. Perfectly suited for solo riders or those with a family, there’s a swimming pool and rest area just in front of the kite spot with bar service. KiteWorldWide offer three accommodation options close to the kite school, from beautifully simple pousadas to bungalows with ocean views and whirlpool. FOOD AND DRINK You’ll find some small local restaurants in the village and a very simple nightlife. VillaMango offeres a restaurant with a menu signed by their e cellent chef, LiLi Hollanda.

BEER R 6 RESTAURANT MEAL R 50 ACCOMMODATION R 350 (VillaMango)

MANGO KITE CLUB operates at the priveleged location on the VillaMango grounds, offering perfect kitesurfing conditions ten steps from the centre. IKO instructors offer lessons with radio assistance for all levels, beginner to advanced. Ozone e uipment is available for rent, there are also air compressors, lockers, a large lawn for rigging and cleaning gear, a sea front gazebo and bar service. Downwinder trips are available to nearby lagoons and flat water spots. www.villamango.com.br herkk@terra.com.br +55 85 3636 3089

KITEWORLDWIDE www.kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919 Eco’ can be lu urious

NO WIND Within just a short walk you’ll find white sand dunes, lagoons, natural pools at low tide and the Aracatiassu river with its oysters that are served fresh every day. For sports lovers VillaMango has a s uash court and swimming pool and there’s always the si kilometre coastline that is e cellent for cycling, walking or running at low tide. Also enjoy the large gazebo on the seafront with magnificent views, pool with Jacuzzi and bar service. AIRPORT Fortaleza Pinto Martins airport (FOR) is appro imately 200 kilometres away 2.5 hours transfer.

Fly downwind

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082 / AMERICAS: SOUTH AMERICA / BRAZIL / PREA

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J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

BRAZIL

THE LURE Prea is a uiet fishing village located just inside the entrance of the beautiful Jericoacoara National Park, in the northeast of Ceara state. The most popular kite spot in this 15 mile section of coast, there are mile after mile of empty beaches with daily 25-knot cross cross-onshore winds, with July to January being the best months. THE SET-UP Here and Jeri are both safe and just insanely regular. Flatter in the morning and choppier with more wave options in the afternoon, this spot is ideal for all levels and although popular, there is lots of space. The beach is enourmous with no obstacles, so downwinders are a must. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER As a general rule, as you travel north from Fortaleza the winds get stronger. Prea is a three to four hour drive from Fortaleza so the wind is considerably stronger, blowing at least 25 knots from the east or northeast from July to January stronger in August, September, October and November. Adding to the kiteboarding bliss are air temperatures of 28 - 30 C 82 - 86 F during the whole season, however, it’s good to have some light, warm clothing just to protect you from the wind. The water temperature is 25 - 28 C 77 - 82 F throughout the year. GET AROUND You can easily walk around Prea. The best means of transport between Prea and Jericoacoara (12 kilometres) are the free transfers with Rancho do Pei e and Vila Kalango or to rent your own beach buggy for a while. There are also many ta i buggies or motorbikes. The closest cities are Cruz and Jijoca de Jericoacoara, should you need anything unusual, but most things are available in Prea and particularly, Jericoacoara. Prea is a small, peaceful fishing village, so you won’t e perience any bigger city problems. CURRENCY Brazilian Reais (R ) - 1 = R 4 1 = R 3 US = R 2.6 The villages do not have ATMs, so bring cash with you. Most hotels and restaurants (including Vila Kalango, Rancho do Pei e and Rancho do Kite) accept credit and debit cards. ACCOMMODATION There are only a few options in Prea, Rancho do Pei e being the most famous and lu urious with 22 e clusive bungalows spaced out within its tropical grounds and is an ideal refuge for those seeking rest, a natural charm and contact with nature. Rancho has a sister hotel, Vila Kalango, in Jericoacoara. Sustainability is a key aim for the hotels and they are built entirely from local materials and decorated with

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ALL PHOTOS – Rancho do Pei e Kiteworld

handmade products. Personal e perience has shown the Kiteworld team that hospitality, good service and great food can be e pected. www.ranchodopei e.com.br KiteWorldWide run kite safaris through Prea, Jericoacoara, Tatajuba and beyond, providing you accommodation in Rancho do Pei e in Prea and Vila Kalango in Jeri. More downwinder adventures and travel guidance at www.kiteworldwide.com There are other guest house options in Prea and Jericoacoara is bigger and busier with many more options for all budgets. FOOD AND DRINK Most people staying at Rancho do Pei e eat at the hotel restaurant or beach bar. There are a couple of basic options in Prea, however there are lots of options in Jericoacoara, a 20 minute buggy ride away. Prea is a great option for families looking to unwind, or couples wanting to rela . There isn’t any nightlife to speak of in Prea, but plenty in Jericoacoara, with watering holes serving late into the night. It’s a fun place NO WIND There are lots of tours by buggy around the region to see 30 metre high dunes, pictures ue lagoons, other charming villages and plenty more e periences in Jeri, including horse riding, sailing etc. Rancho do Pei e offers an e perience menu with uni ue options and the rela space has massages and treatments. There is also SUP and kayaks for rent at the kite school, Rancho do Kite. AIRPORT Fortaleza (FOR) is appro imately four hours by car. Rancho do Pei e offer 4 4 vehicles for private transfers. The first 300 kilometres are tarmacked, after that the roads are very rutted. We did manage it in a little hire car, but it was very bumpy for the last 30 minutes and without a 4 4 we couldn’t drive in to Jericoacoara, however we did make it to Rancho do Pei e in Prea. If you’re planning on just moving between Prea and Jericoacoara, there isn’t really any need to hire a car. For the fit and adventurous you can of course reach Jeri from Fortaleza on a huge downwinder You’ll arrive at Rancho do Pei e in neighbouring Prea with total assistance all the way. Taking three to four days with guides on the water and 4 4 on land, you’ll stay over-night in e clusive hotels. Check out www.surfinsemfim.com.br

BEER Local R 5 Import R 7 RESTAURANT MEAL R 45 – 90 ACCOMMODATION R 435 + ta es per day (Rancho do Pei e)

RANCHO DO KITE is set within the grounds of Rancho do Pei e hotel. Instructors teach all levels from beginner to advanced with radios to assist in lessons and also run supervised downwinders. Usual teaching ratios are 1 1. New Cabrinha gear is also available for rent and there is a private area for clients. The instructors also have lots of e perience in teaching kids (starting from si -years-old). Languages spoken by instructors Portuguese, English, Spanish, Italian and French and more depending on the time of the year. ACCREDITED BY IKO www.ranchodokite.com.br info@ranchodokite.com.br +55 88 9969-8306 +55 88 9602-0002

KITEWORLDWIDE www.kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777 E-GROUP www.egroup.net.br +55 (11) 5561 10 16 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

Download the latest free apps to watch all the latest episodes as well as classic chapters of The Kite Show. www.thekiteshow.tv

084 / AMERICAS: SOUTH AMERICA / BRAZIL / JERICOACOARA

BRAZIL THE LURE Jericoacoara is a very special fishing village on the northeast coast of Brazil in Ceara, 330 kilometres northwest of Fortaleza. Close to the e uator it was once hailed as having one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world by the Washington Post. Surrounded by dunes, fresh water lagoons and set in a national park, there are no proper roads, sand everywhere and wind almost every day. THE SET-UP Boasting over 25 kilometres of beaches and solid wind right from June all the way through February, there are fantastic conditions (as long as you like strong winds) - flat water lagoons, river mouths and ocean waves. June, July, February and March are the best months for wakestyle freestyle as the winds are a little lower. Two high and two low tides a day, the best swell is usually April-November. At full and new moons the best waves are at Prea, Malhada (e perienced only due to some rocks) or Pordo-so beach. At low tide the best and flattest conditions are at Guriu river, which is at the end of a thrilling downwinder over several kilometres from Jericoacoara itself. You’ll also find flat water on low tide, waves and cross-shore winds at Mangue Seco. Alternatively take a buggy 12 kilometres upwind across the national park to the cross cross-onshore winds of Prea. You can downwinder back (being careful to come in before Jeri, or taking a wide berth around the point where the windsurfers are to avoid the wind shadow). WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Cross-off right in front of Jeri town, but most of the kiteboarding takes place along the incredibly long beach where it becomes more cross-shore as the beach curves downwind. Trade winds combine with a late morning thermal directly off the northern sea and a typical day of wind begins at 7am, with mild trade winds of 15 – 22 knots from the east. Around noon the heat generated thermal winds from the north combine with the trades to form a strong 20 – 30 knot northeaster. The main Temporada do Vento wind season begins in early July, typically blowing through until February, when the rain season usually takes over. Windiest months are August – November with formidable stats of 95 fre uently over 30 knots in the afternoon. Water temperatures of 20 – 25ºC, so just good lycra and very strong sunscreen needed. Cooler in the evenings, so bring your hoody. GET AROUND Jeri is a safe and fantastic place to visit, whether you want to get around on foot, in a buggy or on horseback Rent a dune buggy or uad, but you’re best to do it with a driver

Guriu PHOTO – Pino Maiorano Kitestrophik

JERICOACOARA,

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who will follow you on a downwinder. Kiteworldwide offer Jericoacoara as part of their tour package through Prea, Jeri and Tatajuba. This and more lu ury downwinder e cursions in this area and beyond at www.kiteworldwide.com CURRENCY Brazilian Reais (R ) - 1 = R 4 1 = R 3 US = R 2.6 There is no cash machine in Jeri, the nearest bank is Jijoca, a small village 35 kilometres away. You can pay by card in restaurants, though. There are plenty of tourist agencies and foreign e changes, too. ACCOMMODATION Jeri is littered with around a hundred hotels and pousadas from simple to lu urious. We stayed at the very uni ue Vila Kalango, complete with a range of comfortable room styles, including high stilt houses built into the trees, superb food in their bar and restaurant, plus it’s the closest hotel to the water by the Sunset Dune. More at www.vilakalango.com.br The Hurricane Jeri hotel offers a uni ue e perience on the ocean front of the spectacular Malhada Beach a few minutes from Jeri centre. Lots of space and comfort with a rustic-chic style, there’s an amazing lagoon-shaped pool, full bar, complete restaurant service, wifi and more. www.hurricanejeri.com FOOD AND DRINK Jeri is a uni ue e perience as the whole town is sandy and full of buzzing restaurants and bars. There are supermarkets and many great restaurants, offering lovely fresh fish, lobster and shrimp, Brazilian, Italian, Japanese and Arabian foods. NO WIND Daily dune buggy e cursions, the most popular being Blue Lagoon, Paradise Lagoon and Tatajuba Torta Lagoon. Take an eco walk to the iconic ‘Pedra Furada’ – a large rock on the seashore with a large hole in the middle. For more action, there’s powerkiting, sandsurfing, SUPing, windsurfing, surfing, uad biking, horse-riding, capoeira... AIRPORT Pinto Martins, Fortaleza (FOR) is 330 kilometres from Jeri. Bus transfer is cheap and takes you to Jijoca where you’ll switch to a 4 4 for the last stretch of dirt road www.fretecar.com.br Car is most convenient, taking roughly four hours. A driver can pick you up for R 500 each way. Kitestrophik, Vila Kalango and Hurricane Jeri organise transfers. If you’re renting a none-4 4 car you’ll have to leave it just outside of town. For the fit and adventurous you can of course reach Jeri from Fortaleza on a huge downwinder You’ll arrive at Rancho do Pei e in neighbouring Prea with total assistance all the way. Taking three to four days with guides on the water and 4 4 on land, you’ll stay over-night in e clusive hotels. Check out www.surfinsemfim.com.br

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Vila Kalango

BEER Local R 4 Import R 7 RESTAURANT MEAL R 20 – 100 pp ACCOMMODATION R 150– 800 per room

KITESTROPHIK Kite Surf Club have been based in Jericoacoara on the main beach seafront at Ice Cream Surfer shop for eight years and teach all levels on North, Ion, Mystic and Fanatic e uipment. They offer kite, surf, SUP lessons, rentals, sales, storage, snack bar as well as transfers to the main kite sites by buggy, 4 4, horse and cart or horseback. Languages spoken by instructors English, Portuguese, Spanish, French and Italian ACCREDITED BY IKO www.kitestrophik.com kitestrophik@gmail.com +55 88 99 299 339 +55 85 96 896 986

KITEWORLDWIDE www.kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777 E-GROUP www.egroup.net.br +55 (11) 5561 10 16 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

08 6 / A M E R I C A S : S OU T H A M E R I C A / B R A Z I L / B A RRA GRANDE

PIAUI, BRAZIL THE LURE If you’re looking for a super fun, laid back slant on your kiting life then you won’t do much better than a visit to Barra Grande. No loud engines, sandy village streets and donkeys for transport, you’ll find immense amounts of wind, superb bump and jump conditions at high tide, flat water at low tide, a lush flat water lagoon downwind, heaps of space and incredibly welcoming locals who know not only how to have a good time, but how to share all that they have with you. THE SET-UP Situated close to the Delta de Parnaiba (one of the three largest open sea deltas in the world in terms natural e tension and beauty), Barra Grande’s main spot is off the main beach with flat, warm, clear waters and a huge amount of space. As the tide gets higher the water can get choppier, but offers brilliant kickers for massive take-offs in the strong winds. At low tide the spot in front of BGK is the best and free of rocks with nice flat water. As the sun sets there’s a great atmosphere in the Kite Camp bar with people overlooking the action as you kite for hours, boosting into the sunset. Two kilometres downwind you’ll find La Boca, an immense lagoon in the mangroves with a huge open area just beyond the sand dune at the end of Barra Grande beach and, as the wind blows over the dune, the flat water on the otherside is absolutely sublime. For a special e perience you can organise an eco-tour with a guide taking you SUPing through the twisty mangroves from

the village to La Boca, while a donkey and cart transports your kite gear to the lagoon Just remember to take water with you, as it’s untouched down there - just you, your kite buddies and more than likely just a few locals. Kite downwind through this lagoon, round a couple of sandbars and you’ll reach Macapa, where the river meets the ocean, forming incredible lagoons that are ideal for freestyle. Once the tide passes low the conditions get better and better as the water fills in. There’s also a restaurant and bar at this spot. For the wave lover Arrombado beach is 20 miles away. Adventurous kiters could downwind there and will get a range of conditions along the way, from flat water, to chop, to waves. Alternatively you can drive there organise transport of course. Beautiful place, genuine people and good times. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER In general all the kite spots are safe with the slightly crossonshore wind blowing you back to shore. The locals call this place ‘Piawaii’ (Piaui Hawaii) as from July through the end of January the wind literally blows strongly here every day. Choose the kite size and wind conditions you want by the time of day as it builds in strength throughout the day. Between September and December the wind increases a lot, easily topping 30 knots each day. Small kites are necessary all season, but especially in these times when it’s common to see fives, si es and sevens typically being used. Outside of this time you’ll be on your eights to tens. July to February the air temperature is 35 C 95 F, dropping at night to a pleasant 24 C 75 F. As the waters are shallow and beaten by the sun every day, the water

La Boca, a special piece of flat water from your dreams ALL PHOTOS – Kiteworld

BARRA GRANDE,

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knots

BEER R 5 RESTAURANT MEAL R 25 - 70 ACCOMMODATION R 170 - 600 p.p.p.n.

There are several IKO certified schools, plus shops, rentals and repair. The North dealer is BGK and Cabrinha at Rota dos Ventos Hotel. Contact your accommodation provider for school info. VILLAREJO BARRA GRANDE www.vilarejobarragrande.com vilarejobarragrande@gmail.com +55 (86) 9408 5950 BARRA GRANDE KITE CAMP www.barragrandekitecamp.com.br contato@barragrandekitecamp.com.br +55 (86) 3369 8019

BGK beachfront pad

Ta i Barra Grande beach road

fInd us: www.bgk.com.br

PHOTO: GUILLY BRANDĂ&#x192;O

Bar Beach restaurant Kitesurf school SUP Equipment lockers Massage areas Incredible sunsets!

/ contato@bgk.com.br

Barra Grande is a kitesurfing paradise tucked away in the northeast of Brazil - where the nature is abundant and the wind always blows. BGK pioneered kitesurfing in the area and continues to provide excellent waterfront service for guests. The World Tour is coming here because they know! Barra Grandeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s warm waters and super-consistent, strong, side-onshore winds make ideal conditions for professionals and beginners alike!

More information on the BGKite School: bgkiteschool@gmail.com

08 8 / A M E R I C A S : S OU T H A M E R I C A / B R A Z I L / B A RRA GRANDE

Welcoming local Tico Azevedo laying down a carve in the lagoon

temperature is of course hot, around 28 C 83 F. GET AROUND Transfer services are available (speak to your accommodation provider). If you hire a car it will have to be for the whole period of your trip as there are no rental companies close by where you can return your car, however you can get everywhere in Barra Grande on foot or donkey (as there are no buggies on the beach here - keeping it peaceful). Although Barra Grande is a small traditional fishing village, it’s got all the basics covered with mini markets, convenience stores, a pharmacy, medic, bakery and if you need more, Parnaiba is 40 miles away. Barra Grande really is e tremely safe and tran uil, you can sleep with your windows open and leave your belongings on the beach while you kite, however, like anywhere in the world e ercise common sense, don’t show off... but most of all, watch out for the animals on the road if you’re driving out of the village, especially at night CURRENCY Brazilian Reais (R ) - 1 = R 4 1 = R 3 US = R 2.6 Some hotels and restaurants accept US or Euros, but for the best e change rates use your own Reais. You can use your card in most restaurants, but some accept cash only. The closest ATM is currently si kilometres away, but two are being built in the main s uare. Be aware though that many ATMs in Brazil don’t accept all international cards. So withdraw at the airport (or when you get an opportunity) as you’re best to get cash out when you can. ACCOMMODATION Barra Grande’s pousadas are all a rustic hippy-chic style. The village features a mi of bungalows in small hotels, most being just 600 feet from the beach. Barra Grande Kite Camp is right on the beach and has a popular restaurant bar right on the main spot, but there are lots of other cosy, friendly places to stay, in particular at Villarejo, a development of four beautiful bungalows set in a lush green garden. The owner, Jim, is an avid kiter and really opened our eyes to the potential of this place. But he’s typical of the locals here, many of whom work in the capital

city, Teresina, and then race the five hours back for most weekends of the year. It’s a true oasis of fun.

View from Vilarejo’s platform

FOOD AND DRINK There are mini markets where you can get your basics, fruit, breakfasts etc. but most people eat out every night in Barra Grande as the handful of local restaurants are e cellent. You’ll find everything from meats, pastas, pizzas and of course very fresh seafood. There isn’t much nightlife - as most people are so tired from kiting all day every day and then grabbing some cold beers straight after. For more action a day night out in Parnaiba will provide an authentic Brazilian eating, drinking and cultural e perience. NO WIND The Delta de Parnaiba is stunning. There are lots of watersports on offer here, including ecological SUP Kayak tours in the mangroves to find sea horses (local fishermen created an association that runs trips to see seahorses), yoga, or simply walk the beach at low tide to enjoy the nature... but the reality is that there really aren’t many no wind days. AIRPORT Teresina (THE) is five hours by car, Fortaleza (FOR) is si hours and Azul Linhas Aereas (Brazilian airline) will open a flight to Parnaiba (PHB) which is just an hour from Barra Grande. Buses leave the big cities in the northwest and from Fortaleza to Parnaiba and then there’s a dedicated bus service to Barra Grande. Car rental is only really necessary to get to Barra Grande. For the time you spend there it will be parked up as all you’ll need are your feet, a bike or donkey and cart. Sunset session on the ocean side

Main beach

090 / AMERICAS: SOUTH AMERICA / CHILE / PUPUYA

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pupuya, THE LURE Just 2.5 hours from Santiago, Pupuya is nestled in the pictures ue, traditional Chilean coastline. Strong, steady winds for eight months of the year and an incredible environment that offers great kiting, world class surfing and plenty more activities. You could always just take it all in by the pool, too. THE SET-UP Predominantly southerly side-onshore wind offers something for everyone. The flat, protected lagoon is ideal for beginners and lessons while advanced riders are spoilt for choice with butter flat sections for freestyle and a great variety of wave spots. The renowned big wave spot of Roca Cuadrada is just 15 minutes away with waves of up to five metres in peak season (although you may need a 4 4 to get there). Also 15 minutes away is La Boca, a big flat water spot at a river mouth that you’ll only have to share with the beautiful swans. Pupuya is less than two miles from Playa de Matanzas and provides you more spot options during your stay. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The most reliable winds are between October and April with November through March being the strongest. Any time during that period is great for learning, wave riding or freestyling in the secure side-onshore winds with waves rarely getting too threatening at Pupuya itself. Wind tends to build in the afternoon averaging around 20 knots on the majority of kite-able days. Locals advise eight to 12 metre kites. The windier days peak around 30 knots. Average air temp 20 C 68 F. Nights can be cool so bring some warmer layers. The water temps are agreeable in the summer, but aren’t tropical, so pack some neoprene. Temps peak around 16 – 18 C 61 - 64 F towards the end of the season and 12 – 14 C 54 - 57 F in winter. GET AROUND Pupuya isn’t huge. You’ll stay close to the beach and just a few steps from the bus stop and market, so you may not need a car at all. However, consider a car or 4 4 to take advantage of other spots in the area.

chile

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West coast waves, freeride, wildlife and great kitesurfing amongst the natural ambience of the Chilean coastline PHOTOS – Dunas de Pupuya

CURRENCY Chilean Pesos (CLP) 1 = 940CLP 1 = 705CLP US 1 = 625CLP Some bars and restaurants will accept USD and card payment is an option in some locations. Currency e change available at the airport.

BEER 1,400CLP RESTAURANT MEAL 5,000CLP ACCOMMODATION 7,000 – 35,000CLP p.p.p.n.

ACCOMMODATION Dunas de Pupuya is closest to the beach and you can choose between the hostel or cabins both just a walk from the beach. Affordable, clean and great for a long or short stay. If you’d rather stay in a hotel there are three of them in nearby Matanzas.

DUNAS DE PUPAYA kite school offers lessons all year at no more than 2 1. Rental gear is also available and basic e uipment such as harnesses are for sale. Languages spoken by instructors English and Spanish. www.dunasdepupuya.cl info@dunasdepupaya.cl +56 9 8809 6667

FOOD AND DRINK Pupaya isn’t big on nightlife with just one ‘disco’ but there is outstanding sea food and fresh produce, e cellent wines and fantastic little local restaurants. It’s not a spot for bar flies, but there’s a vibrant beach scene with bonfires, beers and star gazing after sunset. Eating out is certainly affordable and Marola restaurant on Pupuya beach serves local cuisine and a variety of favourites. Mini-marts and greengrocers in both Pupaya and Matanzas with two small markets in Pupaya. NO WIND Lots more than just kitesurfing. Find the ‘essence of Chile’ with a SUP ride to the islets or a boat trip to the Islote de Pupuya and its nature reserves. Alternatively trek, cross country downhill mountain biking through the local hills, forests and wetlands or check out the beautiful river delta and its resident black-necked swans at La Boca. Sunsets horseback rides anyone Rodeos, traditional Chilean horse races and the ‘trilla a yegua suelta’ are among other seasonal festivities. AIRPORT Arturo Merino Benitez Airport in Santiago (SCL) is a 2.5 hour drive. Hire a car from the airport and get a bus from San Borja bus station which will take you directly to Pupuya in three hours. Pupuya and the airport are perfectly safe, but if you’re hiring a car study the route as there are some areas to avoid. www.dunasdepupuya.cl for details of the route.

RESTAURANT / BAR CABINS / HOSTEL IKO KITE LESSONS SWIMMING POOL MOUNTAIN BIKE TRIPS SURF / SUP TRIPS BIRDWATCHING STORAGE LAGOON TREKKING WETLANDS

All the uniqueness of Chile, along with the best kitesurfing in PUPUYA

www.dunasdepupuya.cl / www.marola.cl

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092 / AMERICAS: SOUTH AMERICA / URUGUAY / LAGUNA GARZON

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J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

LAGUNA GARZON URUGUAY THE LURE Uruguay may not be a well known kiteboarding destination but its e pansive coastline is home to some world class spots - and Laguna Garzon is just that. A huge sheltered lagoon with acres of flat water on one side of the sand bar and the playful waves of the South Atlantic on the other, Laguna Garzon is an absolute gem. Whatever your level – visit now before all your mates find out about it THE SET-UP Laguna Garzon is a massive lagoon with access to the open ocean. Shallow, flat and ideal for beginners, if you stay close the sandbar you’ll find some of the most buttery conditions that are a freestyler’s dream when it’s blowing. Head out of the lagoon and just a few metres over the sandbar you’ll be faced with an entirely different spot with miles of uncrowded sandy beach, plenty of room to launch and land a kite and, perhaps more importantly, waves. The swell doesn’t tend to get massive but the conditions are pretty reliable and the waves outside the lagoon offer riders making their first forays into wave riding the perfect opportunity to hone their skills on a forgiving but fun beach break. It doesn’t draw a huge crowd, but at weekends during the peak of the summer season (January) it can get a little more crowded than usual with both windsurfers and kiters as well as students from the kite school. The wind is steady and predominantly cross-shore from the left but can blow slightly off or onshore at times. Usually building in the afternoons, the mornings are lazy and good for a rela ing holiday. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The season runs from October through to March, peaking in January with steady winds up to five days a week during the high season and an average windspeed of 15 to 25 knots. E pect to ride anything from a seven to 12 metre and all types of board on flat water, choppy ramps and waves. You won’t always need a wetsuit but it’s worth taking a 2mm summer suit or shorty and possibly even a full 3 2 for the colder days when the wind blows from the south. Fairly balmy air temperatures, but if you’re here during the winter, or if it’s windy in the evening then you’ll be thankful for a warm layer.

Lagoon and ocean side combos don’t get much better than this PHOTOS – Laura’s Kite and Windsurf School

GET AROUND Although beautiful, Laguna Garzon is uite secluded but isn’t isolated. The nearest village of Jose Ignacio is only seven kilometres away and easily accessible by bus or ta i with supermarkets, restaurants, art galleries and even a museum on offer, should you want to check out somewhere new. If you’re staying at Laguna Garzon, it could be a good idea to hire a car if you want to venture a little further afield. CURRENCY Currency Uruguyan Peso (UYU) - 1 = UYU38 1= UYU28 US 1 = UYU25. Dollars and Euros are easily e changed. ACCOMMODATION Hale Lau B B belongs to the owner of Laura’s kite school, so is reasonably priced and they’ll organise transportation and food for you while offering you discounted rates at the kite school on lessons or gear rental while keeping you updated on the conditions. Room prices start at 40 per night and readers of Kiteworld even get a discount www.halelau.com FOOD AND DRINK In Jose Ignacio there’s a wide variety of restaurants serving an array of local and international dishes and there are some uiet but ambient bars as well. Punta del Este, a bigger town, is 30 kilometres away with vibrant nightlife and a multitude of bars and clubs. It prides itself on being one of the most glamorous seaside resorts in America (so make sure you’ve got something a little smarter than boardshorts and flipflops to change into). NO WIND SUPing, surfing, canoe or kayak rental or take a diving e cursion on the seaward side of the sandbar. Alternatively there’s horseback riding, mountain biking, trekking in the local nature reserves and sampling the e cellent local cuisine and wines in nearby Jose Ignacio where there are also art galleries and museums. AIRPORT Punta del Este (PDP) is 50 kilometres and Montevideo (MVD) is 180 kilometres away. Buses run from both to Garzon Lagoon, but car rental from the airport is also an option.

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BEER 2 - 8 RESTAURANT MEAL 10 - 250 ACCOMMODATION From 40 per night

LAURA’S KITE AND WINDSURF SCHOOL, founded over 30 years ago, is the only IKO accredited school in the area. They run lessons for all levels from October through April. There is an e uipment shop onsite with new and used gear, rentals, storage and a rescue boat is onhand at all times. Languages spoken by instructors Spanish, English, Italian and Portuguese. www.kiteywindsurflaura.com laumonino@hotmail.com +598-94043800 (Whatsapp +598-94420704)

Remote, but not too isolated

Apps / Website / Radness

094

Cabarete PHOTO â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Star Kites

095

THE CARIBBEAN FEATURING: TURKS AND CAICOS THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC PUERTO RICO ST. LUCIA

Puerto Rico PHOTO – Goodwinds

St. Lucia PHOTO – Coconut Bay Beach Resort

Turks and Caicos PHOTO – Big Blue

The Bahamas PHOTO – Bahamas Cat Charters

Blue Haven Resort, Turks and Caicos

09 6 / THE CARIBBEAN / TURKS + CAICOS ISLANDS / PROVIDENCIALES

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PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS THE LURE These islands are a kiteboarding paradise with uncrowded, pristine, powder soft beaches, warm tur oise seas and perfect freeriding terrain. Only 90 minutes from Miami with direct flights from New York, Dallas, Toronto, Atlanta, Charlotte and London (via Nassau) to name a few, Turks and Caicos is fast establishing itself as an e cellent kiteboarding destination. THE SET-UP The main island of Providenciales boasts perfect beaches such as Long Bay for learning. Freeriders can ride numerous bays and other islands to their heart’s content. Strike gold if the waves and wind line up for some sensational, if inconsistent, down-the-line wave riding. Most beaches are easy for launching and landing but be mindful of other beach users. On the east end of Provo, Long Bay is waist-deep for miles, has a sandy bottom, loads of space and is perfect for learning. Stronger here, the easterly trade winds are cross-on 90 of the time. Grace Bay is on the opposite western side. Two to four foot waves break along the reef and sand bars, though the reef is e posed at low tide and the wave riding is offshore. In occasional frontal westerlies it’s onshore. Leeward is trickier as the current can be fierce with the tides, it’s busy with boat traffic and access is getting more difficult. Do a downwinder with Big Blue though as it’s the gateway to some secret stashes and kite safaris with their boat. Blue Hills in the northwest is the mirror opposite of Long Bay cross-on conditions and miles of open lagoon and beach all to yourself. Tides do affect most spots (there are many spots - speak to Big Blue). WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Northeast winter trades and east-southeasters in summer, averaging 10 - 25 knots, but great learning conditions year-round. Best winds January, February, March and April. July and August are usually stellar. August to October is unreliable (hurricane season) but can throw up amazing swell and wind. Best wind and waves are in February and March. Average kite sizes 10 – 12 metres. Session at sunrise and sunset for e cellent wind and perfect temperatures. Year-round 24 – 30ºC 75 - 86ºF.

Water 25 – 29ºC 77 - 84ºF. Sun cream and long sleeve rash guards are vital. GET AROUND Hire a car as ta is can be e pensive and there’s little public transport. Kite spots are five to 15 minutes from Grace Bay. Don’t leave any valuables in your car and leave your car open windows down to prevent any annoying theft. Take caution in remote areas after dark. CURRENCY US Dollar ( ) - 1 = 1.5 1 = 1.2 Credit Cards are widely accepted on Providenciales, but cash only on less inhabited islands.

Insane downwinders through the islands PHOTO – Big Blue

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“The Turks and Caicos is the single most beautiful place I have been to! Crystal clear waters and untouched beaches really left a mark in my memory and what better way to explore such a place than to kite through the islands with Big Blue?”

SAM LIG T, SLI GS OT RO RIDER

ACCOMMODATION All-inclusive resorts are just minutes from the action in Grace Bay. Self-catered house rentals are popular and many of the best options are now found on VRBO. Few ‘low end’ accommodation options.

BEER 5 - 6 RESTAURANT MEAL 20-50 ACCOMMODATION Very seasonal 125 – 300 per night in winter 90+ summer

FOOD AND DRINK Grab a magazine on the plane and a Dining Guide when you land, or tune into channel 5 WIV (tceyetv) for the lowdown. Indian, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Me ican, American and European cuisine and there’s even an Irish pub. The Fresh Catch in the Saltmills and Da Conch Shack in Bluehills, Bugaloos in Five Cays, Mr Grouper in the Bight are e cellent for local seafood. E pect to spend 50+ per day on food.

BIG BLUE UNLIMITED is a Vela centre with si instructors (IKO) teaching all levels all year at 2 1 ratio on the latest Cabrinha gear. Downwinders, surfaris with rescue boat cover are available, plus SUP, snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving and private boat charters. Languages spoken by staff English, French, German, Spanish, Polish and Swedish. www.bigblueunlimited.com info@bigblueunlimited.com +1 649 946 5034

NO WIND The islands are a watersport paradise. Driving round Provo takes a day. Visiting the islands of North, Middle and South Caicos from a kiteboarding perspective and simply for an adventure. Big Blue have been e ploring these spots for almost two decades. They can hook you up big time. AIRPORT Providenciales, Turks and Caicos (PLS) is the international airport. Grand Turk (GDT) is connected via inter-island air services (25 mins). Grace Bay is then 20 minutes away.

SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919 TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489

09 8 / T H E C A R I B B E AN / D O M I N I C A N R E P U B L I C / CABARETE

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“Days just aren’t long enough to do all the fun things there are to do here. Whether it’s kiting, surfing or partying... the conditions are always good! It’s an island of endless summer where the people always smile.”

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S SI MAI, RO RIDER A D CA ARETE RESIDE T

CABARETE, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

BEER DOP47 RESTAURANT MEAL DOP500 ACCOMMODATION DOP2,800 – 5,300 per night.

PHOTO – Starkites

THE LURE One of kitesurfing’s original meccas should still be on your bucket list of kite-travel destinations. For sun and wind the four kilometre beach of Cabarete on the north coast of the Dominican Republic is a kitesurfing haven. You’ll also find a wide range of activities and e periences to choose from and the uni ue atmosphere is fuelled by the Caribbean nightlife.

easily learn to fly kites here, too. Bozo Beach, downwind in Cabarete’s main bay, has cross-onshore winds and flat to choppy water conditions. Bozo is suitable for all levels and the more advanced can venture 800 metres out to the reef to find a lovely breaking wave. Although not as windy as Cabarete, Punta Cana on the south side of the island, offers flat, shallow waters, beautiful beaches and all-inclusive resorts.

THE SET-UP Cabarete offers several classic spots. Cabarete beach can get busy near to shore with advanced riders and beginners, but up- or downwind you’ll have waves and open water to yourself. There are also many other options. Take a trip directly east or upwind of Kite Beach and you’ll find Cabarete Bay. La Policía is just upwind of the windsurfing zone on the main beach and is the perfect playground for advanced riders. Beginners can

WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Cross-onshore 20 knot winds from the right, stronger in summer, but Cabarete is a year-round destination. Most reliable April - September when the temps reach just over 30 C 86 F and the waters are nice and flat. Better waves in winter. There are well over 200 days kiting a year, October is rainy though. Kite Beach’s wind is solar driven, so often best after 4pm, leaving time to catch a morning surf at Encuentro or sleep off a night’s partying.

STARKITES bouti ue is at the entrance to Cabarete. Sociable and friendly, the manufacturer’s pro riders are there to help with a full selection of Starkites gear and accessories with demos on Bozo beach behind the shop. Kite lessons on Starkites e uipment at www.starkites-school.com with great teaching techni ues on the least crowded beach in walking distance of the centre of town. Linked with Lu ury Sea Lane apartments www.oceandreamcabarete.com on Bozo beach as well as most schools and repair centres. www.starkites.com sales@starkites.com +1 809 571 9745 CLUB MISTRAL operate a mobile school, so you can be sure of being at the right spot for the conditions, although you’ll find the centre nestled beneath shady palm trees with a cosy chill out overlooking the ocean. Providing lessons, rescue and kiteboarding rentals, they also offer windsurfing, surfing, SUP, Laser sailing, beach volleyball and e cursions. Languages spoken by staff English, French, Spanish and German www.club-mistral.com company@club-mistral.com +49 (0) 881 92 54 960

LEARN TO TO KITE KITE WITH WITH EXPERT EXPERT ADVICE ADVICE AND AND THE THE LATEST LATEST 2015 2015 STAR STAR GEAR! GEAR! LEARN Join us at the safest beach in Cabarete. Instruction in English, French or Spanish! Join us at the safest beach in Cabarete. Instruction in English, French or Spanish! CABARETE RETAIL STORE +1.809.571.9745 CABARETE RETAIL STORE +1.809.571.9745 CABARETE KITE SCHOOL WWW.STARKITES-SCHOOL.COM CABARETE KITE SCHOOL WWW.STARKITES-SCHOOL.COM

sales@starkites.com sales@starkites.com www.starkites.com www.starkites.com

A LL A AN N EE SS EE A L U X U R Y A PA R T M E N T R E N TA L S L U X U R Y A PA R T M E N T R E N TA L S

LUXURY BEACH BEACH FRONT FRONT RENTALS RENTALS LUXURY OCEAN DREAM & HARMONY OCEAN DREAM & HARMONY oceandreamcabarete.com oceandreamcabarete.com +1.305.600.8949 +1.305.600.8949

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1, 2, 3 & 4 bedroom apartments in the center of Cabarete Bay 1, 2, 3 & 4 bedroom apartments in the center of Cabarete Bay Five minute walk to restaurants, shopping and superb nightlife Five minute walk to restaurants, shopping and superb nightlife Perfect for active families, water enthusiasts and relaxing Perfect for active families, water enthusiasts and relaxing Located on the largest and safest beach, ideal for launching your kite Located on the largest and safest beach, ideal for launching your kite

10 0 / T H E C A R I B B E AN / D O M I N I C A N R E P U B L I C / CABARETE These same trade winds push water on to a well-defined outer reef that kicks up chest- to head-high waves and protects the bay, making for flat water on the inside and rolling blue water starboard tack swells on the outside. Water temps sits in the mid-20s all year roughly 75 F. GET AROUND Cabarete isn’t as big as most people seem to imagine and everything is in walking distance or a short motoconcho ride. Watch Susi Mai’s guide to Cabarete on the Kite Show episode 3 at www.thekiteshow.tv CURRENCY Dominican Peso (DOP) - 1 = DOP68 1 = DOP45

1 = DOP50

in Cabarete, including three very lively bars on the beach where you can party until si in the morning. NO WIND With so many activities on offer Cabarete is the perfect destination for non-kiting partners and family. Choose from other watersports such as surfing, windsurfing and wakeboarding. There’s also a host of e cursions into the tropical countryside, as well as mountain biking and even taking a romantic horse ride or the full moon boat trip down the Yasica river.

CLUB MISTRAL www.club-mistral.com +49 (0) 881 92 54 960 TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

AIRPORT Puerto Plata airport (POP) is a 25 minute drive from Cabarete and the transfer costs around US 30 in a cab. Santo Domingo (SD ) is a four hour drive and can cost US 100 by cab.

ACCOMMODATION Go budget or go large you’ve got all the options around here. Some beautiful hotels in lovely spots, or apartments, like the Lu ury Sea Lane apartments on Bozo Beach. Check out www.oceandreamcabarete.com FOOD AND DRINK Directly east or upwind of Kite Beach is Cabarete Bay with a great uality and uantity of food options to replenish your energy after a long day on the water. This beach is packed with great restaurants offering every type of food and drink. There’s always a party going on PHOTO - Sea Lane apartments

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10 2 / T H E C A R I B B E AN / P U E R T O R I C O / D O R A D O BEACH

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Safe learning and freeriding in the bay in front of the resort ALL PHOTOS – Goodwinds

PUERTO RICO THE LURE An e clusive water sports centre nestled in a five star resort with world class kiting conditions surrounded by championship golf courses. Perfectly situated just 45 kilometres from San Juan, Dorado Beach Resort is a gigantic playground for the whole family with water parks and beach activities for kids, breathtaking spas and incredible kitesurfing at a private spot that’s only open to guests of the lu urious hotel and the Goodwinds Kitesurf school and Watersports Center. They even offer tow-in surfing What THE SET-UP Less than an hour’s drive from the capital, Dorado Beach and the Dorado Beach Resort play host to Goodwinds Kitesurf Centre and inclusive kite spot for its patrons. The bay is perfect for beginners and ‘improvers’ while a short tack to the outer reef offers some outstanding wave riding for intermediate to advanced kiters. The beach works well in the regular northerly and easterly winds. At its best at high tide, it still provides some good riding conditions at lower tide states. However, be sure to watch out for rip tides and remember that you will need to either book lessons with Goodwinds kite school or be a resort guest to ride there. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Puerto Rico’s easterly trades sweep across the island year round averaging around 19 knots. Most reliable November through to August, during the summer there are beautiful flat waters or waves depending on the spot with regular 15-25 knots. Puerto Rico really starts to shine as a wave destination in winter with e cellent conditions on the outer reefs while beginners can still learn in the protected smoother waters closer to shore. Year round temperatures average 26 C 80 F in the lower elevations and 21 C 70 F in the mountains. Water temps hover around 26 C 80 F throughout the year, so you certainly won’t need any neoprene. GET AROUND Car rental can be arranged through major firms at the airport. It’s only worth hiring a car if you decide to leave the resort and e plore the island on your own.

CURRENCY US Dollar ( ) - 1 = 1.5 1 = 1.2 Plenty of ATMs and credit cards are readily accepted all across Puerto Rico. ACCOMMODATION Several options available at the resort (all of which are lu urious to say the least) ranging from the Resort Residences overlooking the island’s lush green mountains to privately owned villa rental or the first ever Ritz-Carlton Reserve hotel in the Americas. Prices vary throughout the year. More at www.kitegoodwinds.com FOOD AND DRINK There are five restaurants in the resort serving a wide array of gourmet dishes and cuisine, ranging from the vibrant Positivo Sand Bar that serves fantastic al fresco lunchtime fare, to the award-winning Mi Casa, where Spanish dishes are blended with Puerto Rican flavours to enjoy against a beautiful beachfront backdrop. NO WIND Dorado Beach offers fantastic surfing and paddleboarding and Goodwinds even offer tow-in surfing behind jet-skis Dorado Beach also has four golf courses available to guests, three of which are acclaimed championship facilities. If you have children there’s a huge water park and for your non-kiting spouse Dorado Beach has a world class spa along with wellness yoga, fitness programmes and two beautiful beach clubs to rela in. Beyond Dorado Beach there is a huge amount to do Tour round Old San Juan and the two 16th century forts or head to the El Yun ue national rainforest for some easy moderate hikes up to waterfalls and spectacular views. If you want to stay beach side then head to Culebra to enjoy the pristine Caribbean beaches, or Vie ues where you can e perience the magic of two bioluminescent bays at night. AIRPORT The largest airport in Puerto Rico is Luis Munoz Marin International (SJU) and it’s just a 45 minute transfer from Dorado Beach. It’s a short flight from the US mainland and is direct from most major American airports. Puerto Rico is an unincorporated US territory, so US citizens don’t need to go through immigration on arrival. There is a reliable and regular transfer service available to guests of the hotel with a dedicated limo service also on offer.

BEER 4 USD RESTAURANT MEAL 15-100 ACCOMMODATION 800 – 1200 per night (1 - 3 bed apartments)

GOODWINDS KITE SCHOOL teach all levels all year on a purely 1 1 basis with jet-ski safety cover at all times. A full range of North and Best gear as well as a packed watersports programme from SUP and sailing to tow-in surfing are offered. Languages spoken by instructors English and Spanish. www.kitegoodwinds.com watersports@doradobeach.com +1 787 233 7862 Beachside dining options right at the spot

Awesome wave riding out on the reef. This place has it all

DORADO BEACH,

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Where kitesurfing meets luxury...

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10 4 / T H E C A R I B B E AN / S T . L U C I A / C O C O N U T B AY

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hiring one for a day or two to e plore the rest of the beautiful island, or you can make arrangements for an island tour through the resort’s adventure desk conveniently located in the hotel lobby. Ta is are e pensive but more rela ing than the local bus, which follows no particular time table. In general St. Lucia is a friendly island.

COCONUT BAY sT. lUCiA

Lovely warm water Caribbean kiting ALL PHOTOS – Coconut Bay

CURRENCY Eastern Caribbean Dollar ( CD) - 1 = CD4.2 1 = CD3 1 = CD2.7

THE LURE The south coast of St. Lucia offers the kind of wonderful Caribbean e perience that travel guides wrote about years ago, when tourists first discovered the smaller of the Caribbean islands. Here you’ll enjoy world class kiting, from wave riding to flat water ripping, as well as the laid-back atmosphere and natural surroundings that are so typical of St. Lucia. THE SET-UP A wave spot is accessible straight out from Coconut Bay’s e clusive Surf Shack. When the Atlantic swells push in, the cross-shore conditions are great for e perienced or novice kite riders. A little bit upwind from the Surf Shack you’ll find some nice flat water. The spot is monitored by a responsible team with a safety boat. The beach curves gently into the wind on the southern end where the wind aims onshore, so you will always end up back on the beach should you not be able to make it back to your starting point. Bump and jump conditions here are good for all levels. At rare times there’s a gentle shore-break, but never heavy-duty waves. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The steady east or north-easterly trade winds come in cross-shore from the left, historically blowing from late November until April, but regularly now running to July. The best months are January and February. During the main season you can e pect fre uent 20 - 25 knot winds. Air temperatures are just perfect 27 - 33 C 80 - 90 F all year, cooling off a little at night, especially December and January when you might want some long jeans rather than shorts. Water temperatures vary only very slightly, from roughly 25 C 77 F at Christmas, to 27 C 80 F in August. Obviously no wetsuit is re uired just a rash vest and sunscreen to protect your skin. GET AROUND Vieu Fort is the island’s second largest town and is just a short walk away from the resort’s main entrance. While a contemporary city, it still boasts an old town with colonial homes from the days of French and English rule. Car hire is fairly e pensive (around US 65 per day), but it’s worth

ACCOMMODATION The all-inclusive Coconut Bay Beach Resort Spa has a uni ue two-worlds-in-one feel, with two distinct wings accommodating both families, couples and singles, with a family waterpark area and a tucked away adult-only ‘Harmony’ area. Guests interested in kitesurfing are welcome to stay in either wing. ‘Surf and Stay’ packages are available. FOOD AND DRINK Guests of Coconut Bay will enjoy casual and signature dining e periences in any of the four restaurants plus beach grill in addition to si resort bars. Even picky eaters will delight in the delectable food and beverage options at the resort. The resort’s bars include beer, wine and premium li uors and the newest addition to Peter John’s, the resort’s night club area, is an e tensive Caribbean rum selection. All of which is included in the all-inclusive packages. NO WIND Coconut Bay Beach Resort has a 25,000 s uare foot ‘Kidz Klub’ with daily supervised activities and schedules to keep the little ones busy while you enjoy the wind and surf. The island is a tourist’s dream. On the resort grounds, and included in your stay, there is stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and snorkelling. For a fee the resort also offers several e cursions, such as horseback riding, zip-lining, mountain biking, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, golf, whale watching, hiking to the Pitons World Heritage Site, dune buggy and Segway tours, in addition to visits to the botanical gardens, waterfalls, rain forest and the world’s only drive-in volcano.

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BEER CD12 RESTAURANT MEAL All-inclusive meal packages ACCOMMODATION All-inclusive packages vary

COCONUT BAY’S SURF SHACK e clusively offers complimentary trainer kite sessions to all resort guests over 12 yearsold. Kitesurfing and windsurfing lessons are offered to guests over 16 years-old. Lessons include all e uipment with e perienced instructors who can teach and coach all levels. A selection of uality e uipment is also available for rental. www.cbayresort.com kite-surfing North America reservations@askmeaboutcoconutbay.com +1 877-352-8898 St. Lucia and the Caribbean reservations@cbayresort.com +1 758-456-9999 UK and Europe coconutbay@group-promotions.com +44 (0) 1582 792260

TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919 The Surf Shack

AIRPORT Two airports service St. Lucia Hewanorra International (UVF), which is on the south coast and only a five minute drive from Coconut Bay and on the north coast is George F.L Charles (SLU), which is over an hour away from the resort.

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Lake Garda, Italy PHOTO â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Wind Riders

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EUROPE FEATURING: SPAIN Cotillo, Fuerteventura PHOTO – Flag Beach

ITALY PORTUGAL GREECE MONTENEGRO

Lisbon, Portugal PHOTO – South Adventures Calabria, Italy PHOTO – Hang Loose Beach

Sotavento, Fuerteventura PHOTO – Roger Protzen Rene Egli

James Boulding, Tarifa, Spain PHOTO – Manuela Jungo

108 / EUROPE / PORTUGAL / LISBON

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LISBON,

PORTUGAL

THE LURE Thousands of years of history and buzzing atmosphere make Lisbon one of Europe’s most vibrant capital cities that is also just a few kilometres from some of the best beaches for kitesurfing or surfing on the Portuguese coastline. THE SET-UP It’s not uncommon to surf, SUP and kite all in the same day. Caparica and Carcavelos are the closest kiteable beaches, just 10-15 minutes drive from central Lisbon, with epic wave riding conditions when the Nortada fires up in the afternoon as well as some fantastic surfing in the calmer mornings. Both spots are suitable for beginners in the summer, but ask a lifeguard or a local where you can and can’t kite first. Ericeira, Peniche, Arrábida, Praia Grande and Óbidos are also close by, so it’s perfectly feasible to hit up multiple spots in one day. Lagoa de Albufeira and Lagoa de Óbidos are two fantastic tidal lagoons within 20 – 60 minute drive times. Working in the predominantly north northwesterly Nortada, these spots can be very crowded with other beach users in the summer, though. Access to Lagoa de Óbidos is closed in July. For wave riding in the Nortada hit Guincho. If crowded in summer there are countless other beaches. Another top tip is Troia, a 90 minute drive and short ferry ride away. It’s rare, but it can be absolutely top notch, beautiful and is rarely crowded South Adventures will take you to the best spot for the day’s conditions. WIND AND WEATHER AND WATER There’s wind all-year, most reliable in summer from May to September with the bulk of waves in winter (October to April). The Nortada wind kicks in around the Lisbon region from noon and builds through the afternoon leaving the mornings with glassy conditions for surfing. Usually seven to 12 metre weather, but bring your five metre for the occasional 40+ knot blow-out at Guincho Air temps are balmy compared with Northern Europe, averaging 17 C 63 F in the winter months, 21 C 70 F in the spring and then 27 C 80 F+ in the height of summer. Average water temps around 15 C 59 F in the winter and 17 – 19 C 63 - 66 F during the season.

Beautiful, safe, shallow lagoons PHOTOS – South Adventures

GET AROUND As a modern metropolis, everything is within easy reach. The party scene is incredible with a seemingly limitless number of bars and clubs. There’s everything from fast-food joints to traditional family run restaurants, as well as Michelin Star options and everything in between. For self-catering, supermarkets and shops are in plentiful supply. When staying in Lisbon it’s a good idea to hire a car or make use of the daily transfer service South Adventures offers. Most spots are within 25 minutes drive, so you won’t be spending much time on the road anyway. CURRENCY Euro ( ) - 1 = 1.3 US 1 = 0.8 ACCOMMODATION Accommodation options are varied, from self-catering apartments to hotels, from the cheap and cheerful to five star. South Adventures will collect you from the airport and take you to one of the many fantastic hotels, hostels or apartments on their books and they will store your gear, too.

BEER 1 - 5 RESTAURANT MEAL 5 - 80 ACCOMMODATION 20+ p.p.p.n.

SOUTH ADVENTURES teach all levels, all year seven days a week. Ratios are no more than 2 1. North, Ion, Advance and Underwave gear available for hire purchase. Airport and beach transfers, gear storage, accommodation, tour services, SUP and surf lessons all available. Languages spoken by instructors English, Portuguese, Spanish and French. www.southadventures.com.pt info@southadventures.com.pt rtaveira@southadventures.com.pt +351 916 126 305

KITEBOARDING CLUB www.kiteboarding-club.com +49 8677 668 6099 Epic morning SUP sessions to start the day PHOTO – Pedro Rato

FOOD AND DRINK Restaurants range from traditional Portuguese family run eateries to the Michelin starred. Then dive into the streets of Chiado, Cais do Sodre, Principe Real and Bairro Alto and get in amongst the dozens of bars and nightclubs, all within walking distance of one another. NO WIND You won’t be struggling to fill your time in Lisbon should the wind not arrive If you’re determined to be in the sea, there are world class waves up and down the local coast with plenty of SUP surf schools and rental outfits to get sorted with kit and lessons. AIRPORT Lisbon Airport (LIS) is just a ten minute drive or ta i ride from the centre of the city. You could also fly into Porto Airport (OPO) which is three hours north. Faro Airport (FAO) is 2.5 hours south.

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THE ALGARVE, PORTUGAL THE LURE All just a very short hop from anywhere in Europe you can be enjoying glassy morning wakeboarding or surfing sessions which are the perfect way to kick the early hours off, before an afternoon of regular 25 knot wind speeds for some kiting action with plenty of spots to choose from. There’s also loads of off-the-water entertainment in this area, too THE SET-UP The Algarve coastline e tends over 200 kilometres, more than 70 of which is natural reservation. Find long dunes and lagoons on the east coast, sheltered beaches and pictures ue rock faces on the central coast and sharp cliffs and big waves in the west where the coastline opens up to the power of the Atlantic. The Algarve is hugely popular with bathers in the high season, however, Portugal’s south and southwest areas offer many more kiting options and less crowded beaches. All levels of rider will find something here, whether it’s big winter wave riding at spots like Carrapateira (which is nice and mellow in summer), or flat water cruising on the lagoons at Alvor. Alternatively there’s the hidden delights of Ria Formosa, only a short boat ride away where you’re free to e plore the island chains that are littered with sandbanks, lagoons and alleyways that head to the open ocean. Local knowledge is key here to get the most out of the spots as they change a lot with the tides. Check with E treme Algarve who have all the info. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER March to September offers the best winds on the south coast November to March is best on the west coast. E pect regular 12 - 20 knot breezes that can ramp up to 35 knots in the afternoons, still blowing as late as 7pm. The key is to be fle ible as there are plenty of spots that work in the different winds, including the famous Levante wind that comes from Tarifa. West or southwest sea breezes are kiteable on most beaches on the ocean side, but pay attention to forbidden kiting signs as the beaches can be packed. Summer temps range from 24 - 31 C 75 - 88 F and in winter 15 – 20 C 60 - 68 F. Water temps

Ulcinj – an up and coming destination for the European adventurer PHOTO – KiteWorldWide

21 - 24 C 70 - 75 F in the summer, 15 - 19 C 59 - 66 F in the winter. Sun lovers will be right at home here with the highest sun e posure rates in Europe - 300 days a year and hardly a drop of rain. GET AROUND The Algarve is 180 kilometres from Sevilla and 230 kilometres from Lisbon. E cellent transportation by car, bus, train or plane, so kiting day trips and scenic e ploration are easy to organise and hassle free. Car hire is recommended to take advantage of everything. Ta is are easily available, but e pensive. CURRENCY Euro ( ) - 1 = 1.3 US 1 = 0.8 ACCOMMODATION Everything from camp-sites to five star bouti ue hotels, all set along the stunning Portuguese coast-line. Apartments are very common and basing yourself at Albufeira is a good bet to be within a drive of most places and activities. FOOD AND DRINK E cellent restaurants dot the coast offering traditional Portuguese fare to fresh seafood and more. At night you’ll be spoilt for choice in the Algarve during peak season (June, July and August). Head to Sagres, Lagos, Portimao, Albufeira, Vilamoura, Faro, Tavira or Monte Gordo for more life in the off-season. NO WIND Places like Lagos are unspoilt gems, retaining small town charisma yet teeming with action at night and satisfying the hungriest of outdoor enthusiasts by day. There’s also a newly opened cable park in Lagos, too. The Algarve’s cities are stunning and you can easily spend days getting lost in them, discovering hidden restaurants, museums and shops. Why not hire a mountain bike The scenery is spectacular. AIRPORT Faro (FAO) is in the Algarve, 20 minutes from the beach. Lisbon (LIS) is 230 kilometres from the Algarve, Sevilla (SV ) is 180 kilometres away.

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“Insane surfing with good flat water lagoons off the dirt road.” O CIAST LA, AIR S

RO RIDER

BEER 3 RESTAURANT MEAL 10 - 20 ACCOMMODATION 60-80

E TREME ALGARVE are now an official Airush operator and are open all year for accommodation, rentals, guided e cursions and other activities. They also run guided trips, surf lessons and SUP tours with small groups and a safety boat on-hand. Wave and advanced techni ue also offered as well as spot advice and local wisdom Accredited by IKO, VDWS and ASI (SUP) www.e tremealgarve.com info@e tremealgarve.com bookings@e tremealgarve.com +351 918 674 079

TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489 The beautiful lagoons in the Algarve PHOTOS – E treme Algarve

GET OUT MORE...

THE KITE AND WINDSURFING GUIDES & NAVIGATOR

www.stoked-publications.com

112 / EUROPE / SPAIN / TARIFA

TARIFA, SPAIN

“Well over 15 kite shops and 40 industry related businesses operate along the busy high street and many top PKRA riders (including the 2013 men’s and women’s PKRA Champions, Alex Pastor and Gisela Pulido) actually live in Tarifa, so the standard of riding is very high, but there’s very little attitude.” KITEWORLD

Valdeva ueros

THE LURE Lying at the beginning of the beautiful Costa de la Luz, widely acknowledged to be Spain’s least spoilt and developed coastline, you know it as one of kitesurfing’s original meccas, but Tarifa is building a solid reputation as the ‘Adventure Capital of Europe’ with over 40 activities to try. Plus there’s great food, wine, friendly locals and a lovely family atmosphere This is the busiest kitesurfing destination in the world. Luckily the huge beaches can cope with the thousands of kiters that descend on Tarifa each season and you can e pect wind and sun for 300 days a year. All this is just a cheap, uick flight from anywhere in Europe. THE SET-UP Just 14 kilometres across the water from Africa, this vibrant venue in Andalucia lies at the meeting point of the Mediterranean and Atlantic seas. Strong, reliable, year-round winds blow here and the beaches, such as Los Lances (just outside of town) are wide, open (ten kilometres long), made of soft sand and are obstacle free. Well over 15 kite shops and 40 industry related businesses operate along the busy high street and many top PKRA riders (including the 2013 men’s and women’s PKRA Champions, Ale Pastor and Gisela Pulido) actually live in Tarifa, so the standard of riding is very high, but there’s very little attitude. July and August Tumbao at Club Mistral

can see a thousand kiters on the water in the several kilometres of beach around Tarifa, so its important to observe the rules and respect each rider. If the wind gets too strong or offshore, then take a drive to another beach. There are many options from bump ‘n’ jump to classic cross-off down-the-line wave conditions on the day. Head an hour north to Canos de Meca for a better chance at uality wave conditions, or if the Levante is too strong in Tarifa. Another option is to head east, to Palmones. There are plenty of options. Get the full low down from a shop when you arrive. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Two wind patterns operate in the area. The Poniente wind comes from the west, right to left cross-onshore. It’s super-consistent and brings good weather. It doesn’t usually get too strong apart from during a winter storm. The Levante wind comes from the east and is cross-off on the main beach at Los Lances, gusty and can get very, very strong, however in season rescue boats do operate for school clients and you can buy rescue tokens if you are already a kiter. At Valdeva ueros it’s more cross-shore in the Levante and the bay curves round to catch you where it’s more cross-onshore. Poniente comes in for three to four day periods, is more prevalent than the Levante in autumn and winter and is great when combined with strong Atlantic swells. The Levante will often blow day and night for more

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BEER 2 RESTAURANT MEAL 10 - 20 ACCOMMODATION 10 - 50 p.p.p.n

PUNTA SUR HOTEL TARIFA, SPAIN

HOTEL HURRICANE JERI JERICOACOARA, BRAZIL WWW.PUNTASURHOTEL.COM +34 956 684326 WWW.HOTELHURRICANE.COM +34 956 684919 WWW.HOTEL-HURRICANE-JERICOACOARA.COM +55 88 9766-5968

HOTEL HURRICANE TARIFA, SPAIN

114 / EUROPE / SPAIN / TARIFA CLUB MISTRAL teach all levels, all year at a ma imum ratio of 4 1, based at their centre in Valdeva ueros. A massive range of North gear is available for rent and they provide safety boat cover, e uipment storage, windsurfing, SUP and surf lessons. www.clubmistraltarifa.com tarifa@club-mistral.com +34 619 34 09 13 +34 956 68 90 98

CLUB MISTRAL www.club-mistral.com +49 (0) 881 92 54 960 KITEWORLDWIDE www.kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777 TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489

Views across the Straits to Morocco PHOTOS – Kiteworld (unless stated otherwise)

than seven days and is fre uent in summer, although it’s not always too strong, as its reputation might have you believe. The stats don’t paint a true picture of summer as there’s usually enough to at least get out on a 12 every day with the local effects. One of the reasons that Tarifa can cope with all this is because there are a lot of different beach options, so it’s a very good idea to hire a car. If the wind gets too strong or offshore, then drive to another beach. Choose from onshore wave riding to classic cross-off down-the-line conditions. In general there isn’t much of a tide to worry about, apart from during big spring tides or in winter when a lagoon forms in the dunes of the main beach, which occasionally you’re allowed to ride. Due to the large variation in wind strengths - take all your kites. Air temperatures can remain pleasant all year, but can dip to 14 C 57 F in January and reach highs of 38 C 100 F in July August. Averaging 15 to 20 C 59 - 68 F Novemer to April and 25 to 30 C 77 - 86 F in spring and autumn, this really is an e cellent venue for most of the year. The water gets warm in the summer, re uiring only boardies or a shortie wetsuit but can feel much cooler in the colder winds in the winter, when you will need a spring suit, but averages 15 - 18 C 59 - 64 F throughout the year. GET AROUND Car hire is advisable, however the main spots are all within a ten minute drive of the Tarifa town centre. Within Tarifa itself you can walk from most places you’ll stay in the town. The walled old town has a uni ue blend of Andalucian white ‘Pueblo’ with a hint of Moroccan influence, resulting from a Moorish occupation in a previous life. This is a very safe environment for all the family, although, like everywhere, don’t leave valuables lying around in your cars. CURRENCY Euro ( ) - 1 =

1.3 US 1 =

0.8

ACCOMMODATION There is a massive amount of accommodation on offer,

from bouti ue hotels in town, beach hotels, mid-range and budget hostels, campsites as well as a broad range and spectrum of self-catering villas, apartments and houses. Some schools operate an overall package, too. TARIFA BEACH RESORT offer modern houses and apartments on the famous Los Lances beach. Providing lu ury and practicality, they are e uipped with a range of amenities to keep wind and kite lovers happy and each one is individually styled and decorated. www.tarifabeachresort.com info@tarifabeachresort.com +34 956 684 685 +34 628 173 020 HURRICANE HOTEL is situated directly on Los Lances beach, five miles west of Tarifa. Built in a Moorish style and set in sub-tropical gardens, it has spectacular views as well as a superb restaurant plus pool, sauna and gym. It is partnered with the Punta Sur hotel a little further west and across the road. www.hotelhurricane.com info@hotelhurricane.com +34 956 684 919 KITEWORLDWIDE have a large townhouse with an atrium in the middle of it with a beautiful open courtyard. Each studio within the house has a bathroom and kitchenette. www.kiteworldwide.com info@kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777 ROOM TARIFA hotel is based right in the middle of the beautiful old town, perfectly positioned for long, lazy evenings in a cool environment. www.roomtarifa.com reservas@roomtarifa.com +34 956 68 22 29 FOOD AND DRINK Losing none of its old Spanish charm and white washed walls, Tarifa really comes to life at night. From incredible authentic tapas to high class cuisine to cheap and cheerful pizzas. As well as being a superb venue for

SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919 KITEBOARDING CLUB www.kiteboarding-club.com +49 867 766 860 99

Local shredder, Liam Whaley Old town

tarifadirect-lyssa2_Layout 1 26/02/2015 16:44 Page 1

Tarifa Beach Resort LUXURY RENTAL ACCOMMODATION SIX LUXURY TOWNHOUSES ONE AMAZING PENTHOUSE MODERN COMFORTABLE FURNITURE STUNNING FULLY FITTED KITCHENS THEMED DECORATION CLOSE TO THE BEACH, SHOPS & OTHER AMENITIES

www.tarifabeachresort.com www.facebook.com/TarifaBeachResort + 34 956 684685 / + 34 628 173020

116 / EUROPE / SPAIN / TARIFA

Valdeva ueros

James Boulding PHOTO – Manuela Jungo

young kiters to unwind and party, the Spanish way of life also sees children happily playing and socialising with the rest of the family late into the night outside restaurants, too. Look out for Vaca Loca for steak (although it’s only small and very popular) and our new favourite tapas restaurant is Lolos. For nightlife, choose from rammed dance clubs to laid back bars. There are also a few options on the way to the beaches if you dont want to venture into town. Up at the Club Mistral centre at Valdeva ueros there is a great restaurant right on the spot as well as a chiringuito bar serving wicked caipirinhas with DJs as sunset approaches. This is a popular kiting spot as it’s nicely sheltered from the wind for non-kiting partners to catch the sun and rela . There are various supermarkets, the main one being the Mercadona just at the end of the high street offering similar produce to the rest of Europe, and probably cheaper, and the traditional Spanish meats, cheeses and the fresh seafood in the supermarket is amazing. NO WIND The wind doesn’t usually kick in until the afternoon, so the mornings give a chance for other activities. The backdrop to this stunning beach is a mountainous nature reserve with stunning walks, mountainbike trails (we were guided by Pedal Freaks Tarifa - www.pedalfreakstarifa.com), horseriding tracks, climbing and bouldering, all with amazing views across The Straits to Africa and the Atlas mountains. Also golf, diving, paragliding, fishing, archery, landyachting, surfing, SUP, pilates, yoga and more There is also lots more to see and do outside Tarifa, incuding visiting ancient and pictures ue towns along the coast. AIRPORT Malaga (AGP) is between a 90 minute and two hour drive from Tarifa with many cheap flight options. Jerez ( RY) is a much smaller airport but is only about a 60 minute drive from Tarifa. Gibraltar (GIB) is the closest airport to Tarifa, just 30 minutes away. Make sure you collect your car from the Spanish side of the border to avoid ueues when returning.

BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN THE CENTER OF TARIFA CITY {KITESURF PARADISE} KITE LESSONS, KITE RENTAL, DIVING, MOUNTAIN BIKING, MOROCCO AND ANDALUSIAN EXCURSIONS, HORSES, FISHING TRIPS, WHALE WATCHING, GOLF.

Tel: (+34) 956 68 22 29 ~ (+34) 629 27 56 49 ~ (+34) 605 09 38 28

reservas@roomtarifa.com www.roomtarifa.com

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118 / EUROPE / SPAIN / SANT PERE PESCADOR

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SANT PERE PESCADOR GIRONA, SPAIN

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Huge e panse of golden sands at Camping La Ballena Alegre

THE LURE Forget the Costa Brava’s reputation for hustle, bustle and mass tourism - either side of peak season the coastal area of Sant Pere Pescador is a very rela ing place for a kite-based holiday. The sea breezes remain good and there’s lots of beautiful beach space, making this a superb lower intermediate kite spot. Great value accommodation, e cellent dining options plus an abundance of outdoor activities - including one of the busiest sky diving centres in Europe - are all closely available. THE SET-UP Sant Pere has a long, sandy seven kilometre beach. The afternoon sea breezes of high summer months offer virtually guaranteed 15 knot onshore kiting in the bay, meaning it’s very popular, so think about booking in late spring early summer or late summer early autumn when there’s still a good chance of sea breezes and the southern winds (side-on, from the right) are still kicking in with the occasional 25 knot all-dayer. The best spots are at the northern part of the bay near Sant Pere town and where you’ll find a safe place to park and set up your gear, kite shops, cafés and the most constant winds. No tides and no currents, conditions are lakeside safe with bump ‘n’ jump chop a bit further off the shore. It’s a freeride paradise for intermediates and anyone who just enjoys getting on the water, hence the great atmosphere. If you’re lucky, maybe you’ll get a session with mushy chest-high waves, too. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Sea breezes peak at 14 to 18 knots on a hot July afternoon for about three or four hours. So rela or do something else until after lunch. For semi-deserted beaches and an assortment of sea breezes and southerly force fives and si es visit in April, May or September through October. Bring your 12 - 8 metre kites (include your 14 and you will kite every day). Spring suits in the low season for wind chill. Summer temps get up to 30 - 35 C 86 - 95 F. Spring and autumn highs in the twenties and an average of 15 C 60 F.

You may need a hoody jacket at night in the spring and autumn. The water temperatures are around 20 C 68 F for most of the summer. GET AROUND Hire a car if you want to see the artistic and cultural sights, however if you’re staying on a campsite you’ll find almost everything you need a short walk away at most, from SUP, kite, surf shops, beach bars, natural parks, supermarkets, cafes and restaurants. All campsites hire bikes. Buses are very infre uent but there are plenty of ta is. In summer you might trip over the odd drunk teenager sleeping it off on the beach, but that’s about as gnarly as it gets. It’s very safe, but like anywhere use common sense, keep valuables out of sight. Mos uito repellent can be useful, too. CURRENCY Euro ( ) - 1 = 1.3 US 1 = 0.8 VISA, Mastercard, etc. accepted. ATMs charge varying amounts - check with your bank. Tipping is optional but it’s recommended to leave a polite amount. ACCOMMODATION Lu ury hotels, family hotels, rental apartments and houses plus there are e cellent rural options - from downright classy to e tremely modest. Most kiters opt for local campsites like the very well e uipped La Ballena Alegre offering comfort, peace and uiet, a 100 yard (ma ) walk to the beach and a wide range of modern facilities such as swimming pools, buffet dining, watersports options, bike hire and more – www.ballena-alegre.com FOOD AND DRINK Culinary levels are high, uality is e cellent and portions are generous without being Te an. This area has two famous Michelin star restaurants and their influence shows in town and more rurally. Local wines are e cellent and for local cuisine think French uality plus Italian flavour with Spanish ingenuity and then take 30 off what you thought the bill

“Conditions are lakeside safe, there are no currents and bump ‘n’ jump chop a bit further out. It’s a freeride paradise for intermediates and anyone who just enjoys getting on the water, hence the great atmosphere.” KITEWORLD

BEER 2 (75cl) RESTAURANT MEAL 14 - 18 ACCOMMODATION 20 (bungalow camping) 30 (apartment rural country house) 80 – 200 (hotel) p.p.p.n.

KITE E PERIENCE teach all levels from April to October at a ma imum ratio of 4 1 (booking recommended). The latest North and Best gear is available on lessons, rentals or to buy. Safety boat cover is provided and in the height of season lessons are often run from the boats in the bay where students can have all the space they need. SUP, SUP-yoga, all-girl kite camps, hydrofoil e perience, bike rental, accommodation and gear repair also offered. Languages spoken by staff English, Spanish, German, French and Catalan. School +34 637 37 42 75 Shop +34 656 36 57 95 info@kitee perience.com www.kitee perience.com CLUB MISTRAL centre is located in the Ballena Alegre camping grounds. Teaching all levels directly in front of the centre, there’s

120 / EUROPE / SPAIN / SANT PERE PESCADOR

also the bar Oasis ne t door serving a large variety of drinks, snacks and food, and also hosts great parties, BB s and more. Languages spoken by instructors English, German, French, Spanish, Polish, Italian, Portuguese. www.club-mistral.com company@club-mistral.com +49 (0) 881 92 54 960

SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

Superb regular freeride conditions PHOTO – Kiteworld Rela ed beach crowds PHOTO – Kite E perience

PHOTO – Club Mistral

would come to. Campsite restaurants are usually of a pretty decent standard, too. For lunch most restaurants offer a three-course special, including cheap plonk for 9. The ‘gourmet’ version will run up to 25. The local campsites have supermarkets as do nearby towns. NO WIND Walk or bike 15 minutes into the hinterland or drive 20 minutes north or south for country scenes reminscent of Tuscany or Sardinia. The Pyrenees are just 50 kilometres away and the rugged bays and hills of Cap de Creus are much closer and more like Scotland’s west coast than most people’s idea of Spain. Other alternatives vineyard wine tasting, watersports, a waterpark, horse riding or visit the new wind tunnel at nearby Empuriabrava, the biggest skydiving centre in Europe. There’s a Dali museum in Figueres 20 minutes away, the Stunning bays and crystal clear waters PHOTO – Kite E perience

sophisticated walled city of Girona is 45 minutes and there are local markets, too. For music there are highbrow open air festivals in the summer as well as beach parties and a handful of nightclubs in the town for all tastes and styles. AIRPORT Girona Costa Brava (GNA) is 60 kilometres 50 minutes by car (known to Ryan Air as Barcelona-Girona). Hire a car if you cannot arrange a ta i or pick up. Barcelona (BCN) is 155 kilometres 90 minutes to two hours away - catch a train to Girona or Figueres before arranging ta i pick up or car hire. Driving through, near or past Barcelona is not a good way to either start or end a holiday. The AVE high-speed rail link operates every two hours and will run you from Barcelona (Sants station) to Figueres in 40 minutes, leaving you a 20 minute ta i ride to Sant Pere.

Plenty of fun in the sun PHOTO – Kite E perience

Design / www.imaginola.com

info@kiteexperience.com # +34 637 374 275

Sant Pere Pescador Costa Brava (Spain)

122 / EUROPE / FUERTEVENTURA / FLAG BEACH

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FLAG BEACH, FUERTEVENTURA THE LURE Spectacular beaches with clean and clear waters surround a rela ed, laid back Spanish atmosphere. Fuerteventura is a fantastic location within a short hop from anywhere in Europe and offers flat water and smooth winds, especially in the summer. Wave riders will find a consistent swell and relatively warm weather in the winter months. THE SET-UP Flag Beach is just outside of the bustling tourist town of Corralejo and is the most open golden-sand beach in the north. The north of the island features a multitude of beaches with many smaller beaches than the south as well as pretty coves that offer a variety of conditions. Mostly lovely flat tur uoise waters and steady crossshore winds in the summer. Flag Beach is long with reefs at both ends that go roughly 50 metres out to sea. The beach is separated with kiters riding more upwind and windsurfers downwind in front of the Flag Beach centre. El Cotillo on the west coast has more rocky outcrops every hundred metres or so. Another great spot in the summer, there is a bit more of a current running here and in the winter it’s a prime wave spot, attracting some of Europe’s best wave kiters. Glass Beach (Playa del Burro) is in a nature reserve about five kilometres from Corralejo and is perfect for wave riding. All spots are tidal and work on a mid-to high-tide. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The NE winds blow from the left at Flag Beach and summer is the best time for wind. The trades can start to blow as early as March and remain good through to September. Nines and 12s are the most common kites. Winter brings changeable conditions lots of onshore winds but also waves (bigger in the north of the island than the south, and if you look for them the east coast can throw up some good waves even in summer). Bring bigger kites to kite regularly at this time, but there are epic wind and wave days. On average there are three to four days a week of wind. Air temperatures - e pect 28 C 82 F in summer and 22 C 70 F in winter. The water temperature is around 22 C 72 F in the summer, 18 C 64 F in the winter.

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Flag Beach ALL PHOTOS Flag Beach

GET AROUND It only takes two hours to drive the length of the island, so it’s worth hiring a car, especially to get to the most tucked-away surf spots. Ta is will drop you off at the beach, but you may have a walk to find one when you’re trying to get back. CURRENCY Euro ( ) - 1 = 1.3 US 1 = 0.8 All the cash facilities you’d e pect in Europe. ACCOMMODATION Accommodation in Corralejo is mainly self-catering apartments from 20p.p.p.n, there are hostels too plus a few four star hotels, one lu ury five-star and plenty of villas. There isn’t as much accommodation in El Cotillo, but there are some uiet villages like Lajares in between El Cotillo and Corralejo that have plenty of self-catering bungalows that are popular with kiters and worth checking out for a rustic, rela ed vibe. FOOD AND DRINK Corralejo is a busy tourist town and has everything you will need, including a couple of large supermarkets in the Spanish part of the town. Find cheaper stores with more variety off the main streets. LaJares, halfway between Carralejo and El Cotillo, is a very up and coming village within the surf community with funky restaurants and bars with regular live music. NO WIND Snorkeling, scuba diving, mountain biking and deep sea fishing are popular and surfing and SUP are especially good in the winter months. The north coast features lots of e posed reefs that pick up swells from W through to E with waves ranging in intensity and, with some research, you can find waves in summer on Fuerteventura. Best to get out early before the wind crowds. uad bike e cursions are also available and Corralejo has a water park and more. Catch a ferry over to Lobos island or take a day trip to Lanzarote. AIRPORT Fuerteventura Puerto del Rosario (FUE) airport is a 30 minute drive to Flag Beach Corralejo. Ta is, buses and hire cars are available from the airport.

“One of the best and most consistent summer locations in Europe with perfect wind, waves and beaches for miles, keeping everyone happy. On its day, Flag Beach can be one of the best spots in the world... and there are about 90 of those in the summer!” O

CIAST LA, AIR S TEAM RIDER A D S A IS DISTRI TOR

BEER 3 RESTAURANT MEAL 15 ACCOMMODATION 40p.p.p.n.

FLAG BEACH is open 365 days a year. Beginner to advanced lessons are taught with a student to instructor ratio of 2 1. The latest North gear can be hired out and a rescue boat is at hand for all lessons and costs 30 for unlimited use for private kiters. Windsurfing and surfing lessons as well as rentals are also available. Languages spoken by instructors English, Spanish, German, French and Italian Accredited by VDWS (also with IKO certified instructors) www.flagbeach.com info@flagbeach.com Tel +34 9288 66389

TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

SPE COURCIAL 4 KIDSSES !

+34 928 866 389

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@Flag_Beach

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124 / EUROPE / FUERTEVENTURA / PLAYA SOTAVENTO

100 90 80 70 60 50 40

PLAYA SOTAVENTO, FUERTEVENTURA THE LURE A year-round kiting holiday-makers’ favourite, Sotavento in the south of Fuerteventura has a huge wide-open tropical beach land where you can ride the warm, shallow lagoon or hop over to the bright blue ocean for more bump ‘n’ jump action. Check out the stats – it blows here The Rene Egli centre also hosts one of the longest standing PKRA tour stop events on the calendar at the end of July, when you can share the beach with the best kiters in the world and then party with them at night. THE SET-UP A funnel-effect ramps the winds up in Sotavento all year. A huge e panse of sand over a four kilometre long beach makes for an incredible kiting back drop. The kiting area in front of the recently improved Rene Egli kite centre is a flat water spot, e panded by a tidal, waist-deep lagoon. There are air compressors, fresh-water showers, lifeguards supervising the spot from watchtowers and jet-ski rescue craft at the centre. Throughout the year 650 Cabrinha kites and 250 kiteboards are at your disposal and the whole e uipment stock is completely upgraded every si to 12 months. For waves, head an hour to the north of the island where the waves get much bigger in winter. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER 80 of the winds at Playa Sotavento are cross-offshore and strongest from May - September. In July and August, (when the PKRA is in town) the wind speed might go up to 40 knots. For learning, the best period is from September June. During the summer months, bring your si to ten metre kites and, in winter, eight to 14 metres. Average monthly air temperatures range from 19 C 66 F in January, to 28 C 82 F in August. A sweater and long trousers are recommended in winter evenings when temperatures can drop to 12 C 54 F. The water temperature difference all year is just 5 C, rising from 18 C 64 F in February to 23 C 74 F in September. GET AROUND Buses, ta is and hire car options. From the airport, e pect to pay from 100 per week for a car or 35 per day from your destination. Rene Egli clients have a shuttle service included for free to the kite centre from Costa Calma,

Learning, freeriding and world cup freestyle at Sotavento PHOTO – Kerstin Reiger

Es uinzo and Jandia. Public buses will transport you the five minute journey from Costa Calma to Sotavento for roughly 2 and a ta i will be more like 5. CURRENCY Euro ( ) - 1 = 1.3 US 1 = 0.8 ACCOMMODATION Costa Calma village has private apartments to four star hotels. The four star Meliã Gorriones hotel is the only accommodation on Sotavento beach. All-inclusive, it has spacious rooms, mostly with sea views, a short walk to the kite centre situated in a palm oasis at the foot of the hotel as well as optional upgrades to ‘The Level’ category that comes with personal room service etc. FOOD AND DRINK Costa Calma has several supermarkets and souvenir shops as well as the Fuerte Action Café-Bistro-bar for snacks during the day or to hang out with a cocktail in the evening. For a more hectic nightlife head an hour north to Corralejo. Various restaurants offer all kinds of food, from traditional to international. NO WIND All Rene Egli clients can use SUP boards free of charge – furthermore there’s beach sailing just in front of the centre. Further afield there’s biking, diving, hiking, uad-tours, enduro tours, catamaran sailing or e cellent surfing on the north shore. The Oasis Park zoo is close by. AIRPORT Puerto del Rosario airport is about 75 kilometres one hour north. A ta i from the airport to Sotavento costs around 65, or rent a car from the airport. PHOTO – Roger Protzen

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J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

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“You think to yourself, ‘Am I really in Europe?’ The water is so clear and the colours are insane. Fuerteventura is also the only Canary Island with beautiful, white sand beaches.” AL ERTO RO DI

A, CA RI

A RO RIDER

BEER 0.50 - 2 RESTAURANT MEAL 8+ ACCOMMODATION 45 – 75 p.p.p.n.

RENE EGLI FUERTEVENTURA offer courses for all levels, all year, on the sea or the tidal lagoon. Reserve your lessons before your journey to guarantee availability and get a pre-payment price reduction. Ma imum teaching ratio is 3 1 and the whole spot is supervised by lifeguards in watchtowers. Safety cover provided on jet-skis which are also used to teach from. Cabrinha gear can be rented by kiters with a minimum level of IKO 3, or have your level assessed. Storage is also available. Languages spoken by staff English, German, Spanish, Italian, French and Polish. Accredited by IKO www.rene-egli.com with live webcam info@rene-egli.com +34 928 54 74 83

PLANET KITESURF HOLIDAYS www.planetkitesurfholidays.com SPORTIF www.sportif.travel

TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489

FUERTEVENTURA

Kiteboarding Holidays 2015 by Official windsurfing & kitesurfing school Federación Canaria de Vela

Kite-Center Lagoon accesses

Gorriones-Lagoon-Shuttle

(tidal)

Classes & Rental Exclusive licence for the lagoon

Kite-Zone Classes & Rental ~ 1,5 km

Swimming-Zone ~ 750 m

Material 2015

Windsurf-Center

Windsurf-Zone Classes & Rental

650 kites

~ 1,5 km

250 kiteboards 1000 sails 450 boards All replaced every 6-12 months

Top Spot

Top Material

Top Classes

Top Hotel

Pleasant temperatures all year long and consistently prevailing winds at our Kite Center, situated directly at the World Cup Spot.

The latest 2015 equipment of Cabrinha 650 kites and 250 boards, completely exchanged every 6-12 months. Furthermore the use of SUPBoards is included free of charge.

Only 3 students per instructor either in the lagoon or on the sea with jet-ski assistance, fast learning progress for all levels.

Hotel Meliã Gorriones****+ is an inviting oasis on the south-eastern coast of Fuer teventura with a pristine oceanfront location.

On our homepage you find more information, our rotating live-webcam & comfortable booking system E-Mail: info@rene-egli.com - Tel: +34 928 54 74 83

rene-egli.com

126 / EUROPE / ITALY / LAKE COMO

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

LAKE COMO,

THE SET-UP Third inline to Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore, Lake Como is the ne t biggest e panse of inland water in Italy. Shaped like an inverted ‘Y’ Colico town sits at the far north of the lake, Como at the southwest point and Lecco at the southeast point. You can kite directly off the kite beach in Colico. The water is fairly flat but the wind isn’t as consistent and clean as in the middle of the lake. It’s still good for riding, but the KTS40 guys will take you out to the centre of the lake for the best wind with their ‘lift’ service so you can concentrate on your riding without having to worry about staying upwind or getting back to the beach. The day ends in the best possible way with a nice seven or eight kilometre downwinder before getting picked up. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The ‘Breva’ is an incredibly regular thermal wind. Blowing from the south and kicking in around midday it often continues through to the evening. E pect an average of 15 - 18 knots almost every day from spring through to early autumn. Stronger in spring and decreasing slightly in the height of summer, the general rule is that if the sun’s out and the wind direction is from the south, the thermic wind will turn on and you’ll be in business. Spring air temperatures are between 15 - 25 C 59 77 F, rising to 20 - 30 C 68 - 86 F in the summer. In the summer evenings take a light sweatshirt if you’re strolling around the city. Spring water temps 17 - 20 C 63 - 68 F, rising to 23 - 24 C 73 - 75 F in the summer. You’ll need a 5 3 wetsuit for the spring and just a shorty in the summer. GET AROUND If you’re staying in Colico you can reach everything on

ITALY Glorious Lake Como, a feast for the eyes and your board ALL PHOTOS – KTS40 Wind Revolution

THE LURE Just an hour from Milan and home of Italian Freestyle Champion, Stefano Martinelli, you can be sure you’ll pack in the riding time on Lake Como. Mi your kitesurfing trip with beautiful food, historical site visits and there’s also a cable park filled with kickers and sliders just a ten minute bike ride from Colico.

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foot or by bike. The town centre is just 200 metres from the KTS40 school and the beach is close to the hotels and restaurants. The cable is a little further, but still only ten minutes on a bike. If you want to visit the bigger towns of Como, Lecco or the others around the lake, take the ferry boat that passes through Colico each day. CURRENCY Euro ( ) - 1 = 1.3 US 1 = 0.8 ACCOMMODATION There are plenty of options, from apartments and hotels to B Bs and camp grounds. You’ll find an e tensive list of options in Colico on the www.kts40.com website. For apartment rentals visit www.labreva.com FOOD AND DRINK Colico is one of the most pleasant areas of the lake and is a decent sized town with a population of 8,000 and four different supermarkets, a wide selection of restaurants and there are pubs and clubs in the town. In the summer the area is busy with tourists and there’s a great holiday atmosphere. Some of the really local restaurants cook beautiful local food styles.

BEER 2 RESTAURANT MEAL 10 - 20 ACCOMMODATION 10 - 50 p.p.p.n

KTS40 teach all levels every day from April to October. An official test centre for Best and Airush, they offer a full rental service and collaborate with the Kite Tech shop for gear sales, also selling ProLimit accessories alongside Best and Airush. Operating a boat service, they also have a restaurant. Languages spoken by staff English, Italian and German. ACCREDITED BY IKO and VDWS www.kts40.com comolake@kts40.com +39 320 462 7996 KTS40 CABLE PARK Via al Confine, Colico. www.kts40.com kts40@cablecrew.com +39 334 586 7697 Easy learning by boat assistance

NO WIND There are popular tourist spots all round the lake, all linked to the north by ferry connections and worth a visit. KTS40 also run their own boat tour service. Ride the KTS40 cable park filled with kickers and sliders (open until midnight and often host BB nights ) or rent canoes or SUPs from them. Colico also has a go-kart track, or for more peaceful times, the surrounding area is rich in historical sites like Fuentes and Montecchio forts and the Abbey of Piona in Colico. AIRPORT Colico is an hour from Milan and its airports Malpensa (M P), Orio al Serio (BGY) or Linate (LIN). KTS40 offer airport transfers with reservations.

Cable park near Colico

Kitesurf

SUP

Windsurf

Canoe

Cable Park

KTS40WindRevolution | phone +39 3204627996 - KTS40CableCrew | phone +39 3345867697 www.kts40.com - www.kts40cablecrew.com | Colico, Como Lake (Italy)

THE ORIGINAL KITESURFING JOURNAL SINCE 2002, AVAILABLE IN GLOSSY PRINT AND DIGITAL ACROSS A RANGE OF DEVICES SIX Printed for jim@kiteworldmag.com from Kite World (Oct - Nov '14) at www.exacteditions.com. Copyright ¬© 2014.

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TIMES A YEAR.

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128 / EUROPE / ITALY / LAKE GARDA

90 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

Schools closed in winter

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

LAKE GARDA, THE LURE Kiting between these dramatic mountains in the morning and afternoon thermals is a uni ue e perience. If you’re learning, lessons are very safe and all done from a boat, so you have all the space you could possibly need. THE SET-UP The key to this place is stable wind, two reliable thermal wind directions and loads of space. Limone at the north end of the lake has the best spot for the flattest water in the morning and the strongest winds in the afternoon. You can only access it by boat so the spot stays uiet even in high season. You may find that the lake is flat calm in the afternoon, but that this spot still has a nice, stable breeze. An important factor to note is that all watersports participants are re uired to wear a life jacket on Lake Garda. If you take a boat ride from one of the schools in Limone then board rental is usually included free of charge, so no need to bring your own and gives you the opportunity to try something new – perhaps a raceboard, hyrdrofoils, strapless surfboard or twin-tip. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The north (Peler) wind blows all year, strongest in April, May, September and October, often up to 25 30 knots, but also blows on 75 of days for the remaining months. Stronger in the mornings, most use seven or nine metre kites and then bigger in the afternoon as the wind switches more southerly (Ora wind). Ora wind is strongest May and September, but usually blows enough for a good session for 70 of days each month. A day with no wind at all is rare and in 2014 there weren’t two days in a row without wind. Learning conditions are good for most of the year and you’re virtually guaranteed to reach an independent level within your holiday time. Bring a long wetsuit for March, April and October, a shorty through summer and then just boardies in July and August. April and October the temps can vary from 15 – 25ºC 59 – 77ºF and in the summer they ma at around 38ºC 100ºF, although there’s occasionally a chill in the evening. Water temps range from 12ºC 50ºF degrees in March to 22ºC

ITALY

78ºF in summer. Wetsuits are avaible for everyone at the school. GET AROUND Hire a car, use the ferry or bus to visit bigger towns. North of Limone you’ll find all the sporty young people (watersports riders, hikers, climbers and mountainbikers) and to the south is a much uieter vibe and e cellent food. Lots of towns worth visiting all around the lake and Milan, Verona and Venice are further afield (2.5 hours on average). There is also catamaran and dinghy sailing or SUP (even at night with special sup lights). CURRENCY Euro ( ) - 1 = 1.3 US 1 = 0.8 A 10 tip isn’t compulsory, but is e pected at restaurants. ACCOMMODATION From lu ury lake-side hotels to B Bs and serene campsites ne t to the kite spots. The kite hotel Villa Romantica has a sauna with lake view for a perfect ‘after kite’ chill out (especially in the colder months). In the summer the beachbar makes the best Italian aperitifs. FOOD AND DRINK Limone isn’t an all-night party town, but it is lively early evening at the beach bars. The scene is very social, so don’t worry about travelling alone. The closest ‘large’ town is Riva, ten kilometres north. NO WIND E plore the mountains by hiking or biking. Find classic operas and Romeo and Juliet’s balcony in Verona 90 minutes away. There’s also everything from wakeboarding, mountain biking, hiking, paragliding, beach volleyball and theme parks to shopping, castles, modern art museums and traditional villages to visit. AIRPORT Milan Bergamo (BGY) is an hour and 40 minutes drive and you can hire cars from Si t or Hertz for around 20 per day. Verona Brescia (VBS) is a little closer. Getting to Limone by bus will take twice the time.

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“Lake Garda is such a unique place to ride; huge mountains on all sides and wind every day, plus amazing people and good food.”

O RI OO , EST A D R OTTI RO RIDER, KRA WORLD C AM IO

BEER 3.50 RESTAURANT MEAL 12 - 40 ACCOMMODATION 10 - 200p.p.p.n SCHOOLS WIND RIDERS teach all levels from April to October using Headzone helmets and video coaching for advanced clinics. Ma ratio 3 1, private lessons available. Using North e uipment, all lessons are run from boats. New rental gear includes foilboards, raceboards, skimboards and wake-skates. Languages spoken by staff English, German, Italian, Dutch and French. www.windriders.eu info@windriders.eu +39 348 897 5467 LIMONE WATERSPORTS (north of Limone) offers kitesurfing, sailing and SUP. www.limonewatersports.com Few kiting destinations provide such incredible backdrops PHOTOS – WindRiders

130 / EUROPE / SOUTHERN ITALY / CALABRIA

100 90 80 70 60 50 40

CALABRIA, SOUTHERN ITALY

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J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

Fun times for all ALL PHOTOS – Hang Loose beach

THE LURE Crystal blue waters and stunning mountains a few kilometres away make Gizzeria one of the most beautiful corners of Calabria in southern Italy. They like a party there and completing the attraction is Hang Loose Beach, a great kitesurfing spot, with good thermal winds from April to September.

18 - 23 C 64 – 73 F

THE SET-UP Gizzeria is located on the Tyrrhenian Sea and has fantastic learning conditions. Miles of obstacle-free beach and no danger of being lost at sea as Gizzeria lies within the Gulf of Lamezia Terme. Within a 30 minute drive there are other good beginner spots on the Ionian Sea at Steccato di Cutro. Although ideal for beginners, Gizzeria attracts a lot of pro riders too thanks to the regular conditions. Each year Hang Loose Beach host an international riding competition called the ‘Aloha Surf and Beach Party’ in July, featuring concerts and all night parties as well as an international competition. It has also become host of world class racing events and on top of that there’s also a good wave spot a kilometre upwind called Caposuvero.

CURRENCY Euro ( ) - 1 = 1.3 US 1 = 0.8.

WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The best conditions are April to September in the prevailing northwest cross-onshore wind and flat waters. April, May, June and September can also e perience the Scirocco wind from the southeast which blows cross-off with more intensity, from 25 – 35 knots and super flat water. The winds can be strong in the winter but are more frontal than thermal, so not as regular but there can be good wave conditions. In the summer the most popular kites are 12 or nine metres and the weather is very pleasant. There’s a little rain in the spring, but it’s full on sunshine in the summer. Spring temps 15 – 22 C 59 – 72 F. Summer 22 - 33 C 72 – 91 F. The water temperature through the main season ranges from

“Hang loose beach is a wonderful place for the wind conditions, the food is fantastic and the organisation and set-up on the beach is brilliant, too. I come here every year to train and have never been disappointed.” ALICE R

GET AROUND You’ll need to hire a car. Lamezia Terme is a five minute drive from the spot and, although there is a restaurant at Hang Loose Beach, the accommodation is all at least a kilometre away.

ACCOMMODATION Staying closest to the spot there are options, from hotels and apartments and even farm buildings on the coast. All budgets and tastes catered for. FOOD AND DRINK The food is typical Calabrese cuisine and, as you’d e pect in Italy, there are some delicious options with many restaurants and bars in the area. NO WIND Hang Loose beach offer other watersports to help you enjoy the beautiful Calabrian Sea. Also visit other seaside towns, such as Tropea, Capo Vaticano or Lace, all within an hour’s drive. Within a four hour boat ride you can visit the beautiful Aeolian Islands, or take a trip to the unspoilt mountains just a few kilometres away. Many routes around Calabria hold a lot of cultural and historical value. AIRPORT Lamezia Terme international (SUF) is just three kilometres from Gizzeria with lots of low costs airlines flying in from all across Europe. Best option to rent a car, but Hang Loose Beach can organise your transfers.

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ACCI, ORT TEAM RIDER

BEER 2.50 RESTAURANT MEAL 10 - 20 ACCOMMODATION From 25p.p.p.n.

HANG LOOSE BEACH teach all levels from April – September with a ma ratio of 2 1. The centre provides a rescue boat, hot showers, a lawn to wash e uipment, e uipment rental, surf shop, restaurant and bar. Languages spoken by staff English and Italian. ACCREDITED BY IKO www.hangloosebeach.com lucahlb@gmail.com +39 338 951 1693 Great beach party vibes

World class racing events

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132 / EUROPE / GREECE / LIMNOS

90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

KEROS BAY, LIMNOS, GREECE THE LURE Keros is a super safe, sandy three kilometre kitesurfing bay with a variety of conditions, suitable for all. Set in a natural eco-system, e perience Greece as it was before mass-tourism, with friendly people, good food and tradition. Combine this with the famous Meltemi wind and tur uoise waters and it’s kitesurfing paradise. THE SET-UP Keros beach offers three different spots in one bay the ultimate super flat section at the north end where you can ride just feet from the shore, a bump ‘n’ jump section in the middle and a small (2 – 4 foot) wave spot at the south end. No matter what happens you’ll end up back on the beach further round the bay. Sandy and shallow, you can stand up safely in most places, even up to 80 metres off the beach. In south winds conditions reverse, with the flat section at the south of the bay and waves to the north. Red Rock beach also has small waves with side-shore winds. In spring and autumn Gomati can produce the best waves in a strong northeaster, but doesn’t often work in summer months. Meltemi blows all season, most consistently in summer, but spring and autumn are also good fun with mi ed conditions and waves. The wind usually kicks in early, picking up between nine and 10am, peaking between 10.30am and 15.30, before gradually dropping and switching slightly offshore. SUP, swim or snorkel in front of the Surf Club Keros centre in the evening. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER In June, July and August the Meltemi comes from the north northeast. More directions in spring and autumn and the waves get bigger. Nine metre is the most popular kite size. 280 days of sun a year, mid-summer water temps are 23 – 24 C 73 – 75 F. Boardshorts only in July and August, a shorty for May, June and September and a 3 2 in April and October. GET AROUND Kontopouli village is close by, Kalliopi is three kilometres away and Kontopouli a little further with ATMs, supermarkets, tavernas and bars. The distance from the Surf Camp to the beach is about an 800 metre walk. Most people hire mountain bikes or scooters, but it’s worth hiring a car for at least a few days to take a trip around the island. A scooter will do the job too, though.

Everything blends with the surroundings in the nature reserve

CURRENCY Euro ( ) - 1 = 1.3 US 1 = 0.8 Most places do not accept credit or debit cards so cash is essential. Surf Club Keros can accept PayPal and online credit debit payments. ACCOMMODATION Uni ue eco-friendly accommodation at Surf Camp Keros with real lu ury safari tents as well as clean but basic mini safari tents (both options allow you to check the conditions from bed ). New apartments will be introduced in Kalliopi village this year. More accommodation options within a five to ten minute drive away. FOOD AND DRINK People usually eat at Mama’s restaurant within the Surf Club camping grounds, which serves traditional Mediterranean cuisine, buffet or a la carte. There’s also a Tiki bar at SCK. Elsewhere there are other options for lovely local food if you want to get out of camp. NO WIND Loads of activities at Surf Club Keros, from spas and yoga to mountain biking, kayak e cursions and snorkelling. Book the weekly ‘All Sports’ programme for two guided activities per day do e ercise and get to know the island at the same time. AIRPORT Limnos International Airport (L S) is ten minutes from Keros and regularly served by direct charter flights. Otherwise, fly budget airlines into Athens (ATH), Thessaloniki (SKG), Rhodes (RHO) or Lesvos (MJT) and catch a domestic connection to Limnos, via Aegean Airlines or Sky E press.

Great training for Polly Crathorne PHOTOS – Surf Club Keros

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BEER 2 – 3 RESTAURANT MEAL 10 - 15 ACCOMMODATION 15 – 30 p.p.p.n. in the surf camp

SURF CLUB KEROS LODGE AND SPA teach all levels from May to October at 2 1 ma ratio. Brand new 2015 Cabrinha gear, they also do rentals and gear sales. Rescue cover is provided to clients plus daily refresher clinics and regular downwinders. Windsurfing, SUP and mountainbiking also offered. Languages spoken by staff English, Greek, Bulgarian, German, French and sometimes more. ACCREDITED BY IKO www.surfclubkeros.com bookings@surfclubkeros.gr +30 694 415 6679

TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

134 / EUROPE / MONTENEGRO / ULCINJ

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

ULCINJ,

MONTENEGRO

THE LURE Just a short flight from anywhere in Europe, Ulcinj (pronounced ‘Ooltseenie’), the southernmost town in Montenegro, is a new kiting hotspot in Europe featuring a 14 kilometre sandy beach and super steady side-onshore thermal winds that blow every day in the summer. THE SET-UP Visiting Ulcinj for the first time reminds many of Tarifa in the early days in terms of the long, sandy beach and the conditions. The huge Velika Plaza beach is set in a protected natural area surrounded by dunes and hidden by alluvial forests. The prevailing wind comes side-onshore from the right and conditions are perfect for beginners and freestylers South winds occasionally blow cross-onshore from the left and can be strong, kicking waves up to two metres high making the shore-break unsuitable for beginners. Occasional offshore north winds blow up to 20 or 30 knots. It flattens the water, but these conditions are for e perienced riders only, and only when there’s rescue boat back-up. The first 80 to 100 metres out are waist deep and the seabed is nice and soft, consisting of fine sand that’s free of rocks or reef. The tides don’t really have much impact in Montenegro, so you can start kiting whenever the wind kicks in (which is usually between noon and 2pm when the thermals pick up). A few kilometres downwind there is a river mouth with lovely flat water and super conditions for working on your tricks. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER This area enjoys 270 days of sunshine a year and from May to September the Albanian Alps to the south provide super steady thermal winds that will hit the coast side-shore in the early afternoon at 18 to 25 knots. Bring your eight to 12 metre kites in high season (June to mid-September) and your 12 metre and above in the off season (April to May and mid- September to October). Water temperatures average 22 C 72 F in the summer, so wetsuits aren’t necessary. Before and after the main peak season a shorty or thin full suit comes in handy. GET AROUND Ulcinj town is about ten kilometres from the kite spot. Choose your accommodation close to the kite spot as traffic in high season can be a pain. There are bargain rental car options

Ulcinj – an up and coming destination for the European adventurer PHOTO – KiteWorldWide

in both Podgorica and Tivat airports and it’s easy to find your way around. Roads are a Western European standard and the drive takes about 75 to 90 minutes from the airports. Ulcinj is a very rela ed beach town and crime is very low. CURRENCY Euro ( ) - 1 = 1.3 US 1 = 0.8 ACCOMMODATION Plenty of accommodation options around Ulcinj, from resorts to camp sites. KiteWorldWide offers two different accommodation options Hotel Laguna, a modern 4 star hotel with spacious double rooms and apartments. They also have a new 16 bedroom guest house with private bathroom facilities, a lounge and barbecue area and friendly staff. Kite Loop are the only centre on the beach to offer its own camp site right on the spot. Beside camping, they also offer different accommodation options, from hotels to private rooms just ten minutes walk from the spot. FOOD AND DRINK There are lots of small shops and medium size supermarkets as well as bakeries and a weekly food market in Ulcinj itself. Restaurants and beach bars offer good uality local and international food at very reasonable prices. Many of the restaurants have fantastic views of the river or the sea. NO WIND Ulcinj itself is one of the oldest urban architectural comple es along the Adriatic Sea set on a hillside with an old fortified city, cobblestone streets and medieval buildings. There is a small tourist strip, so the city retains its authentic local atmosphere and the locals are very friendly. The main city beach gets very busy, but travel just outside the town and you’ll find uieter coves with crystal clear waters. In general, Montenegro is developing as an ‘Adventure Tourism’ destination with a number of companies offering white water rafting (along Europe’s deepest canyon), kayaking, mountain biking, climbing, scuba diving, sailing, hiking or paragliding.

BEER 2 (75cl) RESTAURANT MEAL 14 - 18 ACCOMMODATION 20 (bungalow camping) 30 (apartment rural country house) 80 – 200 (hotel) p.p.p.n.

KITE LOOP are based on Grand Beach, Kite Loop offer daily lessons from June to September with professional 1 1 instruction. North e uipment is also available for hire and other services include surf and SUP lessons, downwind tours, long boarding and they also have a beach bar serving food. Languages spoken English, German, Spanish, Russian, Croatian, Serbian. Accredited by IKO www.kiteboardingmontenegro.com contact@kiteloop.net +382 69 629 864 +381 64 1729 033 KITEWORLDWIDE have a joint venture with a local centre employing international and local instructors trained in other KiteWorldWide centres to teach all levels. Ma ratio 2 1 and there’s a huge range of Best gear for lessons or rentals. Open May to October. Language spoken by instructors English, German and some local languages. www.kiteworldwide.com info@kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 2036 085 777 +49 (0) 40 20 93 45 090

KITEWORLDWIDE www.kiteworldwide.com +44 (0) 20 36 085 777 PHOTO – kite Loop

AIRPORT Podgorica (TGD) is the capital served by flights from most major airports with Montenegro Airlines, Austrian Airlines (via Vienna). Ryanair flies from London and Brussels. Tivat airport (TIV) can be reached by some charter airlines like Airberlin.

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135

AUSTrALASIA FEATURING: SRI LANKA THE PHILIPPINES FIJI AUSTRALIA Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka PHOTO – Stan Kiteworld

Port Douglas, Australia PHOTO – Windswell

Fiji PHOTO – Moon Tours

Puka Beach, Boracay, Philippines PHOTO – Reef Retreat

1 3 6 / ASIA / SRI LANKA

/ KALPITIYA

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D ercentage of days with wind over force

KALPITIYA,

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SRI LANKA The sandbar between the lagoon and sea PHOTO – De Silva

THE LURE Kalpitiya has a long, narrow, pristine sandbar that separates the lagoon from the Indian Ocean in one of the most consistently windy destinations in the world. People are only just now beginning to believe all that they see and hear. E pect daily 20 – 25 knots between May and October and slightly less in the second wind season from December – a paradise for kitesurfing THE SET-UP The flat water lagoon is just one-and-a-half metres at its deepest, so is ideal for all levels. You can uickly switch to ocean riding by popping over the sandbar. Launch directly from the De Silva centre who also run transfers to vis-a-vis sandbank for easiest entry and launch. Kite e cursions include the 90 minute boat trip to Paradise Island for insane constant wind and flat water conditions. Go for the day or stay overnight in hammocks. Alternatively take a downwinder from the Kalpitiya lagoon to Dutch Bay in flat water surrounded by mangroves and the array of wildlife at Wilpattu National Park. There’s also a very small lagoon called Kapaldi where you might be able to ride if there is enough space on the day – catch a tuctuc there. Beginners should bring surf shoes as there can be some sharp shells – you can also borrow them from De Silva.

village with convenience stores etc. is three kilometres away and the nearest big village with pharmacies, banks, ATMs and telecom shops is ten kilometres away. The nearest hospital is 35 kilometres. Take ta is or tuctucs to wherever you need to go. Hiring a car is possible from local companies, but driving is a bit different to what you may be used to CURRENCY Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) - 1 = LKR200 1 = LKR133

1 = LKR150

ACCOMMODATION The range of accommodation is from the very basic up to the lu urious. Bear in mind it’s best to be near the lagoon, otherwise you’ll need lengthy tuctuc rides. If you’re a beginner look for resorts that offer free boat shuttles. FOOD AND DRINK There are a few very simple restaurants in the villages and only basic shops. People usually eat in the resorts, hotels or kite camps. Be warned that when eating out the food is very hot, especially the curries and Kottus. De Silva offer a fullboard package, including BB evenings and cooking shows and also have a surfbar where non-guests are welcome, too.

WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Two main seasons the main summer wind season is May – October with kiting almost everyday in at least 15 knots, regularly 20 - 25 at the height of season in June. Side-onshore winds from the southwest can get up to 35 knots. Cross-shore winter winds from December to March are generally lighter at 12 to 20 knots in the afternoon. E pect more waves and chop in the main wind season. The air temperature throughout the year is a staggering 30 C 86 F, day and night (factor 50 highly advised ) with the water simmering at 26 C 79 F.

NO WIND Discover the roots of Buddhism and Ayurveda as well as lots of UNESCO world heritage sites. The Wilpattu national park features Leopards and is just two hours away. Recommended trips include the ‘Cultural Triangle’ of Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla. Take a few days to journey to the east coast from Kandy to Ella on one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, through the Ceylon tea highlands. Hit the famous Arugum Bay on the east coast for incredible surf. During the winter dolphins and whales can be seen close to the west coast as they migrate south. Alternatively snorkel the reef, SUP in the mangroves, play volleyball or rela by the pool.

GET AROUND There is no mass tourism and kiting tourism only really developed in the last three years. A very native region, it’s a rela ing escape (but it helps if you kite ). The nearest small

AIRPORT The Colombo Bandaranaike International airport (CMB) is 2.5 – 3.5 hour transfer. Your accommodation will organise your transfer.

BEER 250LKR RESTAURANT MEAL 1,800LKR ACCOMMODATION 3,500 - 27,000LKR

DE SILVA WINDRESORT located right on Kalpitiya lagoon teach all levels all year and have over 20 years instructing e perience. Top Ozone kitesurfing e uipment available, gear storage, rescue boat, free boatshuttle to vis-a-vis sandbank, chillout terrace, free 4G wifi, restaurant, cabanas and hotel rooms. Lots of other tours and e cursions, too. Languages spoken by instructors English, German, Singhalese. Accredited by VDWS www.surfschool-srilanka.com office@surfschool-srilanka.com +94 777 047817

TRAVEL ACTION www.travelaction.co.uk +44 (0) 844 811 8489 SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919

Everyday shredding on the lagoon PHOTO – De Silva

1 3 8 / ASIA / PHILIPPINES / BULABOG BEACH

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BULABOG BEACH, BORACAY ISLAND

Hot conditions for your best tricks

THE LURE Boracay, Asia’s premier kitesurfing destination, is a jawdropping tropical island. Kitesurfing within yards of your hotel you can literally get out of bed and straight onto your board in just your boardies and harness And you’ll never not find a party at the other end of the day. THE SET-UP Bulabog Beach is a shallow, tropical lagoon offering flat low tide rides thanks to the protective reef that encircles it, with bump ‘n’ jump conditions at high tide. The wind is predominantly cross-onshore and, if flat water isn’t your thing, then a short trip over the protective reef gets you out to a small but playful reef break. Off the water, the main town of Boracay is only a kilometre’s walk away with everything you could want to make the most out of your time on the island. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Boracay’s main season runs from November through to March with November to February being the peak months. Reliable and predominantly cross-onshore, bring 7 – 14m kites to ma imise your riding, though only November and March onwards do bigger riders need the big sizes. December, January and February are best months for 7 - 10m, peaking at 25 knots, but can reach 30 - 35. The weather is typically pleasant throughout the whole year with average air temps of 28 – 31 C 82 - 88 F and the water isn’t too bad either at 26 C 80 F throughout the year. Leave the neoprene and e tra layers at home GET AROUND Boracay is compact so you won’t need a car to get around. Just nine kilometres long and one kilometre wide you can walk to most day-to-day places and there are small tricycle style-ta is available. You can also rent motorbikes or push bikes. CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP) - 1 = PHP67 1 = PHP50 US 1 = PHP44 Some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards and there are ATMs in the town.

ACCOMMODATION Wide array of options to suit all tastes and budgets, from lu ury hotels to the multitude of self-catering apartments. Pay anywhere between 25 and 450 per night depending on your preferences. Reef Retreat Resort (awarded Tripadvisor’s ‘Certificate of E cellence’ 2011, 2013 and 2014) can be found right on the main kiting beach. Set in lush tropical gardens, there are 15 delu e rooms and suites all with large private balconies verandas and garden or sea views, free in-room WiFi, A C, cable TV and mini bar. Ocean Republic Kite school is located within the hotel grounds. FOOD AND DRINK Eating out and getting on the nightlife tip is all too easy and, as with the accommodation, there’s something for all tastes (and wallets) in the centre of Boracay which is just a kilometre from the main kite spot. If you want to stay out partying all night you can, but likewise, a uiet couple of beers (or 2 for 1 cocktails) before bed is totally doable and the nightclubs aren’t so loud that they’ll keep you awake if you’re having an early night. The local dishes are delicious and the locally caught seafood is amazing. Get all your essentials from the small supermarkets in town. NO WIND The wind’s reliable in-season but if it stops blowing there’s still plenty to keep you busy. From scuba diving and snorkelling out of glass bottom boats to more sedate sailing trips, beach massages and there’s even golf. On top of that there’s zorbing, a fair ground, a zip line, ATVs, yoga, spas as well as wakeboarding, cliff diving, mountain biking and more. You’ll have no e cuse for simply whiling away your days gloomily looking at Windguru if it’s not blowing AIRPORT There isn’t an actual airport on Boracay. The closest one is MPH Caticlan. Kalibo is the larger regional airport. Most hotels offer a transit service from MPH Caticlan to Boracay with the final part of your journey via a uick boat ride.

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BEER PHP50 RESTAURANT MEAL PHP350 - 650 ACCOMMODATION PHP1,100 – 19,000 per night

OCEAN REPUBLIC teach all year with a typical ma ratio of 2 1. Find them at the Reef Retreat Resort with a well-stocked shop and regularly updated Slingshot and Nobile rental school gear. They also run kite surfaris around the island to other spots during high season. Languages spoken by instructors English, French, Russian and Polish. www.ocean-republic.com info@ocean-republic.com REEF RETREAT RESORT www.reefretreatboracay.com +63 9173 493060 TRAVEL AGENT SPORTIF www.sportif.travel +44 (0) 1273 844919 PLANET KITESURF HOLIDAYS www.planetkitesurfholidays.com

Impossibly good sunsets ALL PHOTOS – Reef Retreat Ocean Republic Confidence-inspiring water depths

Reef Retreat & Ocean Republic Resort + Kite Center

Beach front boutique hotel with Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1st IKO kitesurfing centre on an award winning beach paradise island, Boracay in the Philippines. Rooms & Suites with Reef Retreat and kitesurfing lessons, kite rental, kite retail outlet, SUPs, all provided by Ocean Republic kitesurfing school. FREE gift when you mention Kiteworld.

Reef Retreat Resort

info@reefretreatboracay.com www.reefretreatboracay.com +63 91 7349 3060

Ocean Republic

info@ocean-republic.com www.ocean-republic.com

1 4 0 / ASIA / FIJI / TAVEUNI ISLAND

TAVEUNI ISLAND,

THE SET-UP Located on the northern tip of the island, the local kite grounds start between the small, privately owned island of Viubani and Taveuni which creates an amazing compression effect this area e tends to the northern most point of Taveuni. Inside the reef is a huge e panse of shallow flat water over a sandy and seagrass bottom. Kite out to the reef and you’ll be e ploring small waves and uninhabited islands. Take an hour’s drive to Lavena or a sailing trip on the local catamaran, aptly named ‘Looping’. and you could be kiting inside sunken calderas or pulling into perfect waves that have never been ridden. It’s perfect for all levels and you’ll be guided by Moon Tours. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Predominant ESE trade winds May – October averaging 15 – 20 knots are often e acerbated by thermal and compression effects of the local land masses. The best times are June to September and bring a uiver of nine and 12 metres for averagely sized riders. This is one of those beautiful areas that the average air and water temperatures are roughly the same – around 27 C 80 F. It’s rarely cold enough to warrant a jumper or a wetsuit, unless you really feel the cold. GET AROUND There are no official car rental services on Taveuni. Moon Tours have their own vehicles and there are plenty of local ta is. The nearest town to the kite spot is Matei with some small general stores and a bakery. There are a number of other small towns and villages to e plore as you navigate the dirt roads. Moon Tours staff have formed a great relationship with local villagers, working closely with them to ensure that the area does benefit as kiteboarders give-back during their visit to the area. Fijians are regularly acknowledged as the friendliest people on earth with large warm smiles and welcoming ‘Bula Bula’ handshakes.

BEER 2 RESTAURANT MEAL 2 - 40 ACCOMMODATION 20 - 2,000

FIJI

Pictures from paradise PHOTOS – Moon Tours

THE LURE A picture post-card tropical kite location with flat water, fun waves and e cellent downwinders where village kids chase your kite as you go. Here you’ll find reliable trade winds in one of the most beautiful places with the friendliest people on earth.

Like anywhere in the world, valuables should be secured although theft, violence and unrest are very rare. All in all this is a very safe place to visit. CURRENCY Fijian Dollar (FJD) - 1 = FJD3.1 1 = FJD2.3 US 1 = FJD2. E changing money, making ATM withdrawals and using credit card facilities are no problem on the island. ACCOMMODATION Matei is also home to the majority of accommodation on the island, ranging from USD 20 - 2000 per night. Most of the resorts are small but high-end with little mid range options. Moon Tours clients stay at Maravu, formerly a 5 star resort and the biggest on the island, now open to a range of options from USD 20 in a shared dorm to around USD 100 per night. The bar, restaurant and pool area is a great place to hang out and rela . FOOD AND DRINK A number of hotels welcome outside guests to eat and drink, so there are a number of eatery options. Food is usually a mi of western, traditional Fijian and Indian influences. NO WIND Located in Fiji’s northern division, Taveuni is Fiji’s third largest island, so there is plenty to do. Climb up Fiji’s highest mountain for incredible views, visit hundreds of waterfalls, a world heritage park, famous dive sites (including the ‘Great White Wall’ – rated one of the top five soft coral dives in the world), or go for a sail on the 43 foot cat ‘Looping’ to sunken calderas and sand atolls for fishing, snorkelling, and great food finished off onboard under the stars. AIRPORT Fly into Nadi international airport on the main Viti Levu Island before taking a connecting flight to Matei on Taveuni. It’s advisable to book your international and connecting flight with Fiji Airways or one of its partner airlines to avoid e cessive e cess luggage costs on the much smaller internal flight. Transfers are taken care of by Moon Tours and their accommodation and local kite beach is within a couple of minutes from Matei airport.

MOON TOURS offer coaching and clinics in Fiji, Zanzibar and Papua New Guinea with rescue boat support when necessary. Nick Jacobsen will co-host an Africa trip in 2015 and Best riders for their Fiji trips to be announced. They also arrange mid to top-end wildlife safaris. www.moontours.com.au info@moontours.com.au +61 359 821 007

1 4 2 / AUSTRALIA / QUEENSLAND

/ PORT DOUGLAS

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PORT DOUGLAS, QUEENSLAND

Kiteboarding heaven in far north ueensland ALL PHOTOS – WindSwell

THE LURE The kiteboarding and stand-up paddle boarding conditions are incredible at Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas - the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Both are World Heritage listed national parks in Tropical North ueensland and the untamed Cape York of Australia.

GET AROUND You can get away without a car in Port Douglas. The best way to get around is hiring a bike for 15 day. Buses loop through town and via the kite beach every 15 minutes costing 5. If you want to e plore further afield hire cars are from 35 day or there are many tour operators.

THE SET-UP Four Mile Beach is a one-stop location for kiteboarders and ocean lovers with consistent south-east trade winds and a tropical climate (found on the same latitude as Tahiti). Four Mile Beach is the far north’s version of the Great Ocean Road where the mountains of the Great Dividing Range sink into the Coral Sea to form the foundations for the Great Barrier Reef. ‘Just 2,400 kilometres long’... yes everything is bigger in Australia. You’ll find every type of riding terrain for every level of kiteboarder, from flat water behind the reefs to waves and kickers reeling off the sand bars. There are numerous downwinders as well as reef and island e cursions that will see you e ploring some of the best areas that the Great Barrier Reef has to offer.

CURRENCY Australian dollar (AUD ) - 1 = AUD 2 1 = AUD 1.5 US 1 = AUD 1.3 Trading barramudi, crayfish or coral trout can also get you anything of value round here, though

WIND, WEATHER AND WATER Trade winds can blow all-year, but are more consistent in winter, from May – December. August is usually the coolest and windiest month. January February are lightest and warmest, however there are often really good summer seabreezes when Cyclones sit out in the Coral Sea. The water temperature ranges from 30 C 86 F in summer to 21 C 70 F in winter, averaging 25 C 77 F. Stinger season starts when the wind drops during the summer months. Potentially deadly, you will want to wear a stinger protection suit during this period (free of charge with any WindSwell lesson or tour or just 15 day to hire). You’ll be pleased to know that crocodiles keep the sharks at bay here in far north ueensland and there aren’t any Great Whites this far north. Common sense should dictate that you stick to the main open beaches and away from the Daintree and Mowbray river mouths as there are crocs in those regions. All these critters don’t really bother the watersports enthusiasts up here though and there are no crocs and stingers during the wind season as the water temperatures keep them in the creeks.

knots

ACCOMMODATION Originally a fishing, gold and sugar town, Port Douglas has a laid back feel and all types of accommodation nestled just behind the palm trees. Backpackers to lu ury resorts or beach front houses and rainforest hideaways there’s something for every travelling kiter and always just a five minute walk from the beach. FOOD AND DRINK Plenty of good tucker options from restaurants to snack places and especially bars serving food. They know how to eat well in Australia.

BEER AUD 5 RESTAURANT MEAL 30 ACCOMMODATION 25 – 99 p.p.p.n.

WINDSWELL teach every day from May to December and on-demand through the off-season. Usual ratios are 1 1, ma 2 1. They have a full range of new kites and boards to demo hire. Two rescue ribs on standby that are also used for regular trips out to the reef. www.wndswell.com.au info@windswell.com.au +61 (0) 427 498 042

CAPTION – Ripping the sandbar

NO WIND Port Douglas village is a chilled out seaside town with the best diving, snorkelling, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, heli tours, skydiving and cable skiing – the place is adventurous by nature. WindSwell offer daily SUP sessions off the beach and on the rainforest river. They also run two boats for snorkelling, paddle boarding, spear fishing, wakeboarding and kiting tours out to the reef. There so much to see and do other than kiteboarding and the nature is truly amazing. Visit the world’s oldest rainforests in the world, or check out 1400 species of fish and over 400 different corals. It’s all about diversity here and there are even plants that will try to eat you, so get out and get wild There are heaps of other half-day and day trips to other areas, or you can head out to the reef to catch more wind. AIRPORT Cairns (CNS) international airport is about an hour from Port Douglas.

CAPTION – Wind Swell’s position and wind direction on Four Mile Beach

Located at Four Mile Beach Port Douglas, Tropical North Queensland, Australia Epic Reef & Island Tours

GEAR | DEMO | SALES | HIRE | LESSONS

+610 427 498 042

www.windswell.com.au

1 4 4 / THE MEDITERRANEAN AND CARIBBEAN / CHARTERS

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KITEBOARD CRUISES,

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IN THE MEDITERRANEAN AND CARIBBEAN

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2-5

2-4

Freedom in Croatia ALL PHOTOS – Kiteboarding Cruise

THE LURE Board a catamaran and e perience Croatia, Greece and Saint Vincent the Grenadines from the water with all the essential lu uries as you’re escorted to some incredible private kite sessions. The boat cruises the Caribbean from December to April and from June to September it’s in the Mediterranean. There are options to join the boat in other months in Cape Verde and the Canary Islands. THE SET-UP Try new, otherwise inaccessible spots, every day. Take it easy in the mornings as the onboard chef prepares your breakfast before heading onto land for some sightseeing in the historical towns of the Dalmatian and the Cyclades islands or simply rela in secluded bays before an afternoon of kiteboarding action.

August, winds typically reach 12 - 25 knots. E pect temperatures of 24 – 26 C 75 – 79 F, so only lycra or shorties needed. GREECE – The Meltemi wind reaches 15 - 25 knots but can often get over 35 between June and September. Usually decreasing at sunset and dropping during the night and early morning, the winds then get stronger again during the day. Amazing crystal clear waters and very warm air temperatures in the high season 25 – 27 C 77 - 80 F, so use a lycra or shorty. CARIBBEAN – Trade winds blow from December to April with great regularity at 15 - 25 knots. Constant, moderate winds and warm waters make these destinations perfect for beginners and advanced riders. Lycra or shorty is advised to protect from wind and sun with temperatures of 25 – 27 C 77 - 80 F.

CROATIA The Mediterranean as it once was, this stunning nautical and party destination is hip and beautiful. Attracting travellers from around the world, Brac, Hvar, Vis and Korcula are the largest islands on your route, offering numerous virgin kite spots and pristine secluded bays.

GET AROUND You have all at your fingertips and beck and call, including your private chef and restaurant onboard the catamaran. Journeys to private kite spots, access to the best beaches as well as tourist land e cursions are included on the route.

GREECE An all-time classic and an ideal place for a surreal escape to the endless blue. Small distances between ports and an abundance of deserted beaches that cannot be reached by land mean your hit rate for new spots is high E perience the uni ue charm of white-washed villages and Greek cuisine on Mykonos, Paros, Na os, Kofunissia, Lefkas, Rhodes and Kos.

ACCOMMODATION Lu ury cabins onboard.

ST. VINCENT THE GRENADINES This chain of less-travelled islands is one of the most popular destinations in the world for sailors, divers, snorkelers and kitesurfers With 98 wind probability from December to April, these islands host countless kite beaches and the list of kite spots you’ll visit includes Martini ue (Pointe Faula), St. Vincent and The Grenadines (Union Island, Canouan, Mayreau, Tobago Cays) and you’ll be riding everything from perfect flat water to waves. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER CROATIA – The Maestral wind is typical for Adriatic summers and is accompanied by beautiful, stable weather and crystal-clear water that’s also a perfect place for beginners. Strongest in June, July and

BEER 2.5 - 3.5 RESTAURANT MEAL 7 - 15 ACCOMMODATION 50 – 200

KITEBOARDING CRUISE have onboard kite instructors and can also organise lessons at local kite schools. Typical ratios are 2 1 or 1 1. They have North and Best gear to rent and twin-tips are free. Safety boat always onhand and other services include chef, skipper, kite guide and airport transfers. English is the main language spoken on the boat. www.kiteboarding-cruise.com info@kiteboarding-cruise.com

FOOD AND DRINK First class food and a range of delicious dishes are served onboard to suit your tastes after kiting and sailing all day. Then party on trendy Hvar or in the beach bars on Pakleni islands, browse the clubs on Mykonos or simply chill on the cat. NO WIND Sailing aboard a lu urious catamaran in paradise is an amazing e perience and also great for all the family. SUP, snorkel, scuba, wakeboard or simply chill out. Croatia and Greece provide cultural e periences and wine routes, while in the Caribbean there’s a host of rum distilleries to sample. There is no better place to lime than St. Vincent and the Grenadines (the art of doing nothing). AIRPORT Croatia – Split (SPU) Greece Athens (ATH) Caribbean Martini ue (FDF) or St. Vincent The Grenadines (SVG). Airports transfers are available in Croatia, an airport bus will take you straight to the marina in Greece and ta i transfers are available in the Caribbean.

Croatia city break Monitored safely in the open ocean

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Croat i a

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all inclusive catamaran kite cruises and kite charters summer and winter destinations, private and share-a-boat cruises check summer 2015 availabilities at info@kiteboarding-cruise.com

early booking discounts 2016

caribbean early booking discount till 30. June 2015 - cruises from december to april 2016 mediterranean early booking discount till 31. December 2015 - cruises from june to september 2016

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14 6 / T H E C A R I B B E AN / T H E B A H A M A S / C H A R T E R S

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CAT CHARTERS IN GEORGETOWN Transported to dream land PHOTO – Bahamas Cat Charters

THE LURE Leave the crowds behind and hop off your private yacht into the crystal blue waters whenever you feel like it. Uncrowded kitesurfing is what this holiday is all about. THE SET-UP Bahamas Cat Charters have three boats in their fleet and your chartered vessel will be anchored just minutes from multiple kitesurfing spots. Choose from sandbars with flat, shallow water that’s ideal for beginnners and those working on new tricks. There’s plenty of space and most beaches are onshore with very clean winds. Ride safe, calm waters or hit up some waves. Ride at a different spot each day of your charter in safe, peace of mind as there’s a dinghy on hand at all times in case you need a rescue. WIND, WEATHER AND WATER The windiest months are December through March, averaging 15 – 25 knots from the east to east-southeast. These times also bring the biggest waves though the winds can often blow right through to May June. There are fre uent 15 knot days in the summer though, which are good for learning. Average air temperatures are 25 C 77 F in January, 26 C 79 F in March, 29C 85 F in May and 32 C 89 F in August. January and February are the coldest months but still with a very nice daily ma temperature of 25 C 78 F, minumum 17 C 63 F. When the wind blows after a cold front it can cool down at night, so bring a top or jacket. Water temperatures average a lovely 24 C 76 F. GET AROUND Georgetown is just a mile transfer in the dinghy from the boat and everything is centralised close to the docks, so it’s easy to get around. Many tourists use ta is unless e ploring the island of Great E uma, when

EXUMA, THE BAHAMAS car rental is a good idea. The Bahamas are safe and there are no concerns about theft or walking around at night. CURRENCY Bahamian Dollar (BSD) - 1 = BSD1.5 1 = BSD1.1 US 1 = BSD1. US dollar is 1 1 with the Bahamian dollar and both currencies are accepted. ACCOMMODATION There are hotels and resorts aplenty in Georgetown, but to get the best e perience stay on the boat for close, easy access to the kite spots and for having the ability to sail to different spots. Bahamas Cat Charters offer reduced rates for non-inclusive trips or for accommodation only bookings if you’re looking for a place to stay while enjoying kiting in Georgetown. FOOD AND DRINK There are two supermarkets nearby in Georgetown if you need any personal supplies. Native dishes of the area include fish served in a variety of ways, lobster, barbecued meats, conch burgers, cracked conch and conch salad.

BEER 4 RESTAURANT MEAL 14 - 20 ACCOMMODATION En uire for inclusive non-inclusive and room rates available onboard

BAHAMAS CAT CHARTERS teach all levels all year, usually at a ratio of 2 1 on Core and CrazyFly gear. They have a safety boat, offer gear for rent and will house you on their beautiful charter cat, taking you to the best spots possible. 15 discount available on all-inclusive and non-inclusive options. www.bahamascatcharters.com adreffin@gmail.com +1 (242) 357-0826

Bahamas Cat Charters t Kitesurfing adventures onboard St. Francis 44 foot catamaran

t Quality instruction in a safe setting with gear rental available

t Group bookings available t All inclusive / non inclusive pricing options t Get 15% off your rate! Contact us for more information on this trip of a lifetime

NO WIND Kayaking, SUP, snorkelling, diving, surfing, fishing, beach e ploring, feeding stingrays, island tours by power or sail boat through the cays at a rela ed pace over shallow, incredibly clear water. Children love the beaches as a huge playground. AIRPORT Georgetown (GGT) international airport is a 15 minute ta i ride from the town where you will be met by the Bahamas Cat Charters boat, or taken to your hotel.

Adam Dreffin | (242)357-0826 | adreffin@gmail.com

www.bahamascatcharters.com

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THE JOY OF DOWNWINDERS DOWNWINDERS HOLD A SPECIAL PLACE IN THE HEARTS OF RIDERS WHO’VE BEEN ON THEM. THE E CITEMENT AND ACHIEVEMENT THAT COMES FROM STARTING IN ONE SPOT AND KITING TO ANOTHER IS INFECTIOUS. NOTHING UITE CAPTURES THE TRUE ESSENCE OF THE FREEDOM KITEBOARDING BRINGS THAN JUMPING ON A BOARD AND LETTING THE WIND CARRY YOU TO YOUR NE T PORT OF CALL Sounds good doesn’t it If you’re thinking of embarking on your first downwind adventure then scan through the points below and get after it WHY SHOULD I DO A DOWNWINDER Well, besides the fact that they’re about as much fun as you can have while fully dressed (or partially dressed if you’re somewhere warm), you can get a lot out of going on a downwinder. They present a uni ue opportunity to view the coastline from a new vantage point and allow you to kite at spots inaccessible from the land that you may never have gotten to ride at otherwise. On top of that they encourage you to develop new riding skills and e perience something truly special with your fellow kiters. Plus, there is uite often beer at the other end CAN ANYONE DO IT Yep, in theory anyone can do a downwinder. If you can get on a board and ride downwind then you’re halfway there. However, it’s important that you’re confident in your abilities and able to relaunch your kite and get

back to your board should you crash. There is nothing funny about getting into trouble if you’re offshore or not close to a suitable landing spot, so make sure your gear is in order and that you know how to sort yourself out should you get into a bit of bother. HOW DO I DO IT Firstly you need to plan a route from one spot to another that’s downwind and go for it When on the water simply point your board downwind and enjoy the ride (any board will work but directionals surfboards are certainly comfier over longer distances). One thing to remember though is that because you’re riding downwind rather than tacking against the wind you will essentially be depowering your kite, so be prepared to downloop kiteloop if necessary to keep your speed up. SHOULD I GO ALONE OR WITH OTHERS Common sense dictates it’s better to go in a group. It doesn’t need to be an organised one, but safety in numbers is key here. Should you go it alone and run into e uipment failure or have something else go wrong then things could take a turn for the worse. If nothing else, at least if other kiters are there they can raise the alarm if something untoward happens. And anyway, it’s a great e perience and one to be shared with others. WHERE DO I DO IT The simple answer to that is anywhere As long as the place you want to go to is downwind of where you’re starting and the route is safe and devoid of any perilous obstacles (like a disused naval minefield or wind farm for e ample) then get ready for your biggest smile and get out there.

Laguna Garzon, Uruguay PHOTO – Laura’s Kite and Windsurf school

Start at Dolphin Beach or Sunset Beach and let the prevailing southeaster escort you to Melkboss a full 12 kilometres or so away. There are some epic waves on the way and it’s really uite special if done as the sun starts to set.

Not one for the faint hearted This is a four day adventure following the incredible North Brazilian coastline covering around 40 kilometres a day. There are world class flat water lagoons and wave spots on the way with fresh fish and caipirinhas to refuel you each night. Follow the endless reef and, being Africa, wherever you land you’ll never be far from someone who magically appears and offers you a ta i ride home. The waves break in both directions and vary in size depending on conditions and location, but there is something for all levels.

Rip the slicks and flat water canals while you listen to the amazing sound your board makes in such flat water on this world famous eight mile downwinder. You’ll want to do it again and again and again

COM MISTRAL. M / WW W.CLUBISTRAL.CO @CLUB-M 0049 (0) 88 1 92 54 96 0 / COM PANY

CLUB MISTRAL KITESURFING HOLIDAYS mauritius / cabarete / cape verde / golf de roses / tarifa dahab / essaouira / dakhla / safaga / fuerteventura photo by: club mistral / location: essaouira