Outpost Travel Magazine Issue 103 Preview

103 • 2015 ANNUAL GLOBAL TRAVEL GUIDE - OUTPOSTMAGAZINE.COM

103

ANNUAL

TRAVEL GUIDE

ANN 14

OUTPOSTMAGAZINE.COM $6.95 CAN/US. DISPLAY UNTIL JUNE 30, 2015

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8 11 Tripping

Mailstop So Need a Vacation…

IN THIS ISSUE

ISSUE•103

Affectionately Yours

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On The Fringe More under-reported,

quirky-human, natural-world stories: when drones do very good things, a super duper trouper suit, where iguana’s on the menu, and dog fights of the sky

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Local Knowledge Misguided Everywhere and Anywhere

By Simon Vaughan

Our senior snorkelling correspondent heads to the Red Sea and discovers there’s more down there than meets the eye

21 Inked in Thailand

At the Wat Bang Phra temple getting tattooed is a spiritual experience

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MEC’s The Traveller’s Edge Why We Backpack—the BIG 5

Essentials before you head out!

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Backpacker Buzz News from Hostelling International

Why Western Canada is a winter wonderland!

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Outpost Traveller Connecting you to your next adventure

Send your family and friends travelling in 2015 with

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Produced and Written by SIMON VAUGHAN

2015 GLOBAL TRAVEL GUIDE

Every year at this time Outpost does a round-up of all the adventure on offer for the coming year—and every time we’re amazed by the eclectic itineraries designed by some of the world’s leading travel experts: from trekking in Ladakh to exploring Patagonia, kayaking in Vietnam to cycling in Colombia, the streets of Paris to the streets of London. There’s Continental Europe and the Namib Desert, Transylvania and the Australian Outback, exotic Zanzibar and the Andean plateau, cool Cambodia and burgeoning Burma—here is Outpost’s 2015 Global Travel Guide. Sit back and enjoy.

• • Asia, Oceania & Beyond • • In The Footsteps—trips that track great explorations • • Central America and the Caribbean • • Africa and India • • South America • • Europe • • North America • • The Not So Definitive A to Z of Travel: what-to-know and whatnot-to-do when you’re out in the world on your big adventure

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Story by SOPHIE KOHN Photos by SERGIO DAVID SPADAVECCHIA

opXpedition Taiwan PART 2

DIVINE INTERVENTION In Taiwan, there is a god or goddess for every occasion and every human experience

Give the Gift of Travel

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CONTRIBUTOR

Simon Vaughan

Senior Editor/Writer & Special Travel Advisor

ISSUE•103 Publisher/Editorial Director MATT ROBINSON matt@outpostmagazine.com Editor DEBORAH SANBORN deborah@outpostmagazine.com Creative/Art Director SERGIO DAVID SPADAVECCHIA david@outpostmagazine.com Senior Editor/Writer & Special Travel Advisor SIMON VAUGHAN simon@outpostmagazine.com Associate/Online Editor DANIEL PUIATTI dan@outpostmagazine.com Gear Editor PAUL AUERBACH Editor-at-Large (Asia) JEFF FUCHS

M

any years ago, my curiously clairvoyant aunt predicted “You are going to travel the world.” I had barely ventured beyond the corner shop at the time, but her comment proved predictably prescient. Within two years I was in Kenya, and I’ve remained hopelessly hooked ever since.

Although raised on a diet of adventure novels and Tarzan films, I had assumed that swinging on a few vines myself was out of the question. And then I discovered that regardless of budget, almost any adventure is actually accessible—as long as you don’t mind doing a few dishes along the way.

Each year while compiling the Global Travel Guide with the Outpost team, I am reminded of my aunt and my life-changing discovery. Travel has provided me with so many great moments that it’s impossible to overstate its significance in my life—but yes, I will admit, I once even swung on a jungle vine!

—S.V.

A FASTER, SMOOTHER, BETTER OUTPOST WEBSITE

A

fter months of feedback from our readers, intense testing, optimization and gallons of coffee, our new website is finally ready for you to explore!

With your input we not only overhauled the logic and structure of the site, but also made the following very special additions:

 MOBILE FRIENDLY

The site responds to your preferred viewing device—tablet, phone or desktop, all will adapt and respond by reorganizing the layout of the page to present our content beautifully on your favourite device.

 NEW ONLINE COLUMNISTS

We are incredibly excited to introduce Simon Vaughan in Canada (that guy above), Ryan Murdock in Malta and Dario De Santis in Istanbul—all regular contributors to Outpost Magazine—as our new online columnists. Check out the travel wit, humour, knowledge, expertise and passion that you have come to recognize in each of these amazing global trekkers.

 REVAMPED PHOTO GALLERIES

Our photo galleries just weren’t doing justice to the spectacular photography that we have accumulated during our many expeditions through the years. So we’ve built a new gallery from scratch. From the panoramic Canadian Arctic to the visceral beauty of the Himalayas and Andes, our Outpost online photo library is the place to visualize the world!

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

Editor-at-Large (Europe) RYAN MURDOCK Hostelling International Editor ERIN THOMPSON Contributing Editors BILL ROBERTS, FINA SCROPPO, EVAN SOLOMON, IAN WRIGHT Contributors This Issue SOPHIE KOHN, JOE SANBORN, JENNIFER FODEN WILSON

Sales Manager GREG DAVIS

greg@outpostmagazine.com Outpost [ISSN: 1203-7125] is published six times a year

by Outpost Incorporated at 250 Augusta Ave., Suite 207 Toronto, ON M5T 2L7 Editorial and Business : 416.972.6635 Advertising: 416.972.6527 info@outpostmagazine.com - www.outpostmagazine.com Individual Subscriptions Canada: 1 Year [6 Issues] $20 CDN, 2 years $35 CDN USA: 1 Year [6 Issues] $30 US, 2 years $50 US Intl: 1 Year [6 Issues] $40 US, 2 years $60 US Subscriber Services: 416.972.6635. Although Outpost rarely does, subscriber lists may be made available to fully screened companies or organizations whose products may interest our readers. To be excluded from these mailings email circ@outpostmagazine.com, or write to the above address.

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KNOWLEDGE

aughan V n o im

By S

Misguided

Everywhere and

Anywhere As our most senior correspondent learns the hard way, you just can’t believe everything they tell you

My

travels have taken me far and wide, and almost every where I’ve ventured I have encountered wonderful people more than happy to go out of their way to help a wayward visitor.

In an attempt to return their kindness, whenever I see someone struggling with a map at home, no matter how busy I am I will invariably try to assist with directions. If they ask me a question and I don’t know the answer, I will make something up. After all, they will likely never see me again and it could be months before they find out that I was, well, so creative.

As wonderfully philanthropic as this is, I suspect I am not the only one who helps others like this. In fact, I have often found tour guides and hotel staff who seem to share my selfl ss devotion to others. Like the guide in Chile who, when asked why flamingos stand on one leg, said it was so they can use www.outpostmagazine.com

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the other leg to kick themselves free should a flash-freeze ever trap them. Not sure why flamingos in tropical places take this precaution, but I have no doubt it’s true.

In Cuba, I met an equally kindly host at a small resort who addressed the question of dangers on the island nation.

“Oh, it’s very safe,” he replied with a beaming smile. “You don’t have to worry about anything in Cuba. There’s no crime, no malaria and we don’t even have snakes.”

I thought it a little odd that a large tropical island filled with forest-clad mountains, thick jungle and mangrove swamps would have no snakes, but it was possible that St. Patrick, having rid Ireland of all of its snakes in the fifth century, might have then come to Cuba on holiday.

A few minutes later, as we strolled across a patch of scrub grass towards the beach, a snake slithered out from beneath a bush. It stopped and looked at us agape, likely surprised because its own serpentine holiday-host had told it that Cuba was free of humans.

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GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO/GINA SMITH

At the Wat Bang Phra temple near Bangkok monks design tattoos by reading your aura

BETTER ON A

GOOD DAY

By Jennifer Foden Wilson

I

’m sitting on the cool tile fl or—some relief from the hot, sticky weather just outside the door. There are upwards of 20 people in the room, but everyone is completely quiet. The only sounds are coming from the deep hum of the overhead fan and the tap, tap, tap of the bamboo stick.

I’ve never perfected the art of complete stillness.

This is in stark contrast to the focus of the room—the monk—who is restful, silent and focused. Everyone is there, patiently, quietly waiting for the exact same thing. Whether the motivation is artistic, cultural, spiritual—they’re all waiting to be tattooed by a Thai Buddhist monk. www.outpostmagazine.com

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OUTPOST/COLIN O'CONNOR

WH WE'VE GOT YOUR ADVENTURES COVERED!

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08/12/2014 11:03:37 AM

MEC'S THE TRAVELLER'S EDGE

HY OUR TOP FIVE (SOMETIMES)

OVERLOOKED

ESSENTIALS F

or thousands of years, young Australian Aboriginal males have headed into the wilderness for an extended period in a rite of passage known as “Walkabout.” For the Aboriginal people it is an important cultural practice, part of the transition from adolescence to adulthood.

!

Yet these days they are not the only people who transition to adult life by heading out on character-building journeys.

Gap years taken between school and university, or between university and employment, remind one of walkabout.

Whether travelling for fun, as part of school or just a way station on the journey to adulthood, the sight of laden young backpackers making their way across Europe, Latin America or Asia is commonplace.

Later in life, these same people and other kindred spirits can often be found toting packs into the North American wilderness, following high Himalayan trails or disappearing into Morocco’s Atlas Mountains.

Whether in populated areas or remote wilderness, there’s something liberating about the independence and freedom of having all your necessary worldly possessions on your back. Any physical discomfort is lessened—even removed entirely—by the thrill of new discoveries, whether in the world around you or in your own personality. There are endless sights to see, experiences to have, and usually best of all, people to meet.

It’s hard to put the benefits of backpacking into words and no exaggeration to say it is often a life-changing experience.

Whether you tour Europe hopping hostel to hostel or devote more than a year to some epic route like the 8,700-kilometre Eastern Continental Trail, backpacking opens up a whole new world.

While most people who contemplate hitting the road know what to pack, there are a few key things that can make life easier but are sometimes forgotten or overlooked.

SO, HERE ARE OUR TOP 5 BACKPACKER ESSENTIALS: 1) BACKPACK. If you’re going to spend good money on one item of equipment before your travels it should be on your pack—you and your bag are destined to become the very best of friends or absolute enemies on a long trip.

There are countless packs on the market. Some are cheap, simple and more than sufficient for many travels. Others are expensive, high-tech and likely unnecessary for the average traveller. When selecting a pack, make your choice based on your style of travel. If you’re backpacking across Europe and sticking mostly to railways and the main cities, you may not need a conventional backpack at all. Consider a sturdy kit bag or duffle bag with a decent shoulder strap and invaluable roller wheels as a better option.

But if you’re hitting trails or climbing mountains you’ll need something else.

First, make sure you get the size of pack you need. When buying, keep in mind all the items—their shape and size—that you’ll be carrying. If heading on a long trek it won’t just be clothes and a sleeping sheet but likely a sleeping bag, maybe cooking equipment, perhaps a tent and food supplies.

You also want a pack that’s comfortable. Look for back, hip and lumbar support, and well-padded shoulder straps. Make sure it’s fully adjustable so it can sit on your back precisely where you want it to. Try it on in the store and walk around.

If you choose one with lots of support it usually means the bag has a frame—and frames can be heavy.

MEC.CA/TRAVEL www.outpostmagazine.com

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Divine INTERVENTION Story by SOPHIE KOHN • Photos by SERGIO DAVID SPADAVECCHIA

In a land defined by its countless temples and shrines, where daily worship is a collective ritual, Taiwan has a god or goddess for every cause and occasion, for any human thought or act

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CRUISE / BOAT

PRODUC

W ED AND

GHA O N VA U M I S Y B RIT TEN

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CULTURAL / URBAN EXPERIENCE CYCLING OVERLAND / ROAD / TRAIN / VEHICLE TRANSPORT PADDLING / KAYAKING / CANOEING TREKKING WATER SPORTS WILDERNESS / THE OUTDOORS WILDLIFE / SAFARI WINTER SPORTS

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ASIA, OCEANIA & BEYOND / IN THE FOOTSTEPS: TRIPS FOR THE ADVENTURE HISTORIAN! / CENTRAL AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN / AFRICA AND INDIA / SOUTH AMERICA / EUROPE / NORTH AMERICA / THE NOT SO DEFINITIVE A TO Z OF TRAVEL

Welcome to the 16th edition of Outpost Magazine’s annual Global Travel Guide—packed with more than 120 trips and tips from every corner of the planet. We’ve taken into account every budget, every taste, every interest and style of travel to make this year’s guide your indispensable exploration of the latest trends, destinations and discoveries for the adventurer in you to dream and plan.

Outpost keeps a constant watch on every aspect of travel. We monitor all the news, blogs and latest developments; work with our industry, tourism and equipment partners; get continual feedback from our stable of writers, photographers and videographers; and peruse thousands of itineraries from hundreds of tour operators to bring you our annual recommendations.

The end result contains something old (with a new twist), something new (from newly-opened destinations to the newest hiking routes), something borrowed (that is, back and better than ever!), and even something blue (from warm seas to cold temperatures). A guide we are confident will whet your appetite for adventure and discovery, help you with your own travels or just make your bucket list grow ever longer.

For the first time this year, we’re also including our very own “A to Z of Travel,” which addresses some of the issues—both serious and whimsical—that can make for informative reading and better informed travelling.

So, sit back and take in our round-up of travel trips and t ips in the 2015

Global Travel Guide. Have a good read, then set your timer.

NOTE THAT PRICES LISTED ARE OFTEN “STARTING FROM,” IN CANADIAN DOLLARS UNLESS SPECIFIED, AND DO NOT INCLUDE AIRFARE OR TAXES, UNLESS INDICATED. ALL TRIPS HAVE BEEN VERIFIED WITH EACH TOUR OPERATOR AT TIME OF PRESS, BUT PRICES AND DEPARTURE DATES MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE—CHECK WITH OPERATOR FOR FINAL DETAILS.

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  

WORLD EXPEDITIONS

WORLD EXPEDITIONS

MALAYSIA

BORNEO BIG FIVE WILDLIFE

Head deep into Malaysia’s exquisite rainforest to search for Borneo’s elusive Big Five—orangutans, proboscis monkeys, hornbills, pigmy elephants and crocs. You will visit the world-famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (which Team Outpost did last year, see our Malaysia reports, Issue#99 and #100) for an up-close look at the primates, and stay in comfortable jungle eco-lodges where you can trek and search for the area’s wildlife. Enjoy river cruises and guided nature tours, and look for unique birdlife and a variety of nocturnal species. Visit waterfalls and ancient sites, explore enormous caves, and enjoy a refreshing swim in jungle pools.

CANADA ONE

canadaone.travel

 800.668.6889 Length/Departs: 6 days/daily Accommodation: eco-lodges Price: $2,330 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

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ISTOCKPHOTO/ ISFAHAN

WORLD EXPEDITIONS

 800.567.2216 Length/Departs: 13 days/Jan.-Apr., Sept.-Dec. Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouse Price: $3,390 Difficulty: Moderate

ISTOCKPHOTO/ IAKOV KALININ

worldexpeditions.com

OUTPOST/COLIN O'CONNOR

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BURMA/MYANMAR

BIKE, HIKE AND KAYAK As Burma, or Myanmar, emerges from its extreme isolation of the last several decades to become one of the most popular travel destinations in Asia today, this trip puts a new spin on its rediscovery.

You begin in Yangon, the capital, and cycle from Mandalay (on the Irrawaddy) to Mount Popa and Bagan, which are among the most important temple sites in all of the continent. Trek on the Shan Plateau, an area visited by few travellers, even by Burmese standards. Kayak on Inle Lake, and discover the authentic and untold Burma at every turn. Definitely a country on my bucket list!

THAILAND

SAILING FROM KO TAO TO KO SAMUI The islands of Thailand are among the most idyllic in the world, with jungle-clad mountains surrounded by white-sand beaches washed by clear turquoise waters. This four-day trip sails in a small catamaran from Ko Tao to Ko Samui, stopping at Ko Phangan and Thong Nai Pan along the way. Days are spent swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, enjoying beach barbecues, discovering isolated spots or exploring small island towns, while nights are spent aboard the boat.

INTREPID TRAVEL

intrepidtravel.com

ISTOCKPHOTO/ IAKOV KALININ ISTOCKPHOTO/ ISFAHAN

OUTPOST/COLIN O'CONNOR

WORLD EXPEDITIONS

WORLD EXPEDITIONS

 855.299.1211 Length/Departs: 4 days/May-Oct. Accommodation: Boat Price: $920 Difficulty: Easy

IRAN

DISCOVER PERSIA Discover ancient, modern and perennially mysterious Iran, once known as Persia, on this twoweek fascinating cultural odyssey.

Explore the main sites of Tehran, its classic capital, before boarding the sleeper train to Yazd, the centre of the Zoroastrian faith. You continue to Kerman and Shiraz, and visit gardens, mosques, temples and ancient fortresses. See Persepolis and beautiful Isfahan, the delightful Abyaneh, Kashan, and the holy city of Qom. And maybe even pick up a famed Persian Rug before returning to Tehran.

G ADVENTURES

gadventures.com

 888.800.4100 Length/Departs: 14 days/Mar.-Nov. Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses Price: $2,500 Difficulty: Easy www.outpostmagazine.com

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ACTIVE ADVENTURES

NEPAL

EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK

One of the most popular treks in the world still remains the route from the village of Lukla in the Himalayas to Everest Base Camp. Following Edmund Hillary’s and Tenzing Norgay’s famed route to the spot from which they first tackled the highest summit on Earth, this journey will see you trek along deep river gorges, incredible sweeping valleys, alpine forests and high ridges. Visit Buddhist monasteries and Sherpa villages, summit Kala Patthar for spectacular views of Mount Everest, and experience absolutely breathtaking scenery every step of the way.

FRANCE AND SPAIN

FOOTSTEPS OF DALI Salvador Dali is regarded among the greatest of twentieth-century surrealist painters. This self-guided walking tour discovers the areas that influenced the great Spanish Catalan artist as well as many other great painters. Hike the rolling foothills of the Alberes, and follow the Mediterranean Coast past vineyards and country towns, breathtaking scenery and quaint traditional fishing villages. Stroll from France into Spain, and visit the world-renowned Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueras, Dali’s birthplace and childhood home.

UTRACKS

utracks.com

 800.567.2216 Length/Departs: 7 days/daily Jan.-Dec. Accommodation: Hotels Price: $1,190 Difficulty: Easy

ACTIVE ADVENTURES

activeadventures.com

UTRACKS

 800.661.9073 Length/Departs: 19 days/Mar.-May, Sept.-Nov. Accommodation: Hotels, lodges, guesthouses, tea houses, camp Price: $3,399 USD Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

ARGENTINA, CHILE

THE ROUTE OF CHARLES DARWIN

In December 1832, the British naturalist Charles Darwin arrived in Tierra del Fuego aboard HMS Beagle and conducted the research that eventually led to his world renown. This voyage aboard the Via Australis sails between Ushuaia, Argentina and Punta Arenas, Chile, and rounds Cape Horn, following Darwin’s route. The trip includes shore excursions by zodiac, and has experts on hand to point out Darwin’s landing sites and the places where he made his scientific discoveries.

AUSTRALIS

australis.com

www.outpostmagazine.com

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UTRACKS

 877.678.3772 Length/Departs: 5 days/Jan. 2015 & Jan. 2016 Accommodation: Ship Price: $2,298 USD Difficulty: Easy to moderate

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NICARAGUA DISCOVERY Making headlines for the wrong reasons not so long ago, Nicaragua is today a peaceful land of warm and welcoming people, and spectacular scenery that remains undiscovered by mass tourism. Explore its colonial cities, including Granada, with their romantic architecture, old churches and bustling local markets with iconic craftwork. Visit coffee plantations, trek verdant jungles filled with exotic birdlife, climb towering volcanoes, swim in crater lakes, and just relax on pristine beaches. Then return home and boast to your friends how you “discovered” a brand new destination.

ISTOCKPHOTO

IDEAL SOUTH AMERICA

idealsouthamerica.com

 800.820.7932 Length/Departs: 8 days/daily Accommodation: Hotels, eco-lodge Price: $1,795 USD Difficulty: Moderate

JOHN TELFER

NICARAGUA

INTREPID TRAVEL

intrepidtravel.com

 855.299.1211 Length/Departs: 8 days Jan.-May, July-Oct., Dec. Accommodation: Hotels Price: $795 Difficulty: Easy ISTOCKPHOTO

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PANAMA TOUR

From the impenetrable Darien Gap in the east and verdant Costa Rica in the west, to the Pacific Ocean in the south and the Caribbean to the north, there’s so much more to Panama than merely its eponymous canal. Blessed with perfect beaches, jungle-covered mountains and pictureperfect colonial coffee plantations, explore this Central American country from its cosmopolitan capital to its unspoiled wilderness, and still have time to cruise the iconic Panama Canal.

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ISTOCKPHOTO

GUATEMALA

MAYA TREK TO TIKAL

Discover the fascinating Mayan city of Tikal like a true adventurer of yore! Led by members of the Dos Aguadas community, you will spend four days trekking the jungle, as toucans flit overhead and howler monkeys make their haunting night-time calls. Stop at hidden ruins and learn about life in this Central American rainforest, before exploring mighty Tikal at dawn and dusk. Elsewhere, visit indigenous villages and Lake Atitlan—the deepest lake in Central America—and watch the sunrise from high atop a volcano.

EXPLORE!

exploreworldwide.ca

 888.216.3401 Length/Departs: 11 days/Feb., Apr. Accommodation: Hotels, camping, eco-lodge Price: $2,310 Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

www.outpostmagazine.com

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ALPINE ASCENTS

alpineascents.com

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ISTOCKPHOTO

 206.378.1927 Length/Departs: 16 days/July-Aug. Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses, camping Price: $5,300 USD Difficulty: Strenuous

ALL PHOTOS THIS SECTION: ALPINE ASCENTS

AFRICA AND INDIA

LADAKH, INDIA

THE NUBRA VALLEY TREK Trek part of the caravan Silk Road through the majestic region known as Ladakh in northern India. Start in Leh, Ladakh’s largest city, and trek into the mountains. Visit ancient palaces and monasteries that display magnificent towering golden Buddha statues and exquisite Buddhist painted cloths. Witness morning prayers with the monks, and visit high villages with sweeping panoramic views of this valley in the Himalayas.

You’ll see Bactrian camels, and motor on one of the highest drivable roads on the planet—more than 5,600 metres.

TANZANIA

SELOUS AND ZANZIBAR Although not as well-known as the Serengeti or Masai Mara, Tanzania’s Selous Game Reserve is actually the largest reserve in Africa and an absolute paradise for wildlife buffs. Travel by train from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s capital, and spend three days on foot, by boat and in 4WD on the search for Africa’s iconic and diverse wildlife— elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, giraffe, buffalo, and more. Fly to Zanzibar, the fabled bohemian Spice Island in the Indian Ocean, where you can explore the winding lanes of ancient Stone Town before spending a few days just relaxing on Zanzibar’s idyllic beaches.

INTREPID TRAVEL

 855.299.1211 Length/Departs: 12 days/Jan.-Feb., June-Dec. Accommodation: Hotels, lodges, resort Price: $3,210 Difficulty: Easy

INTREPID TRAVEL

intrepidtravel.com

TUNISIA

INTERGALACTIC TUNISIAN FAMILY ADVENTURE From ancient history to natural history to cinema history, Tunisia has something to thrill every member of your familial tribe. This expedition includes a great range of interesting activities— from pottery and cooking lessons, to a night in a converted troglodyte cave dwelling, to swimming and snorkelling in the Mediterranean and camelriding in the desert. You will see an amazing glassblowing demonstration, tour a crocodile farm and even visit some of the sets and locations used in both Star Wars and Raiders of the Lost Ark. A cool trip your kids will just love—then they’ll be putty in your hands...at least for a few days. (Hopefully.)

EXPLORE!

exploreworldwide.ca

ISTOCKPHOTO

ALL PHOTOS THIS SECTION: ALPINE ASCENTS

 888.216.3401 Length/Departs: 9 days/July, Aug., Oct. Accommodation: Hotels, troglodyte cave Price: $1,350 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

www.outpostmagazine.com

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MOUNTAIN LODGES OF PERU

ACTIVE ADVENTURES

activeadventures.com

 800.661.9073 Length/Departs: 11 days Apr., June, July, Aug., Dec. Accommodation: Hotels, eco-lodge, homestay Price: $3,600 USD Difficulty: Easy

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ADVENTURE LIFE

ADVENTURE LIFE

adventure-life.com

 800.344.6118 Length/Departs: 6 days/year-round Accommodation: Hotel Price: $2,030 USD based on occupancy Difficulty: Easy

08/12/2014 5:53:06 PM

ADVENTURE LIFE

ACTIVE ADVENTURES

SOUTH AMERICA

PERU

PERU FAMILY ADVENTURE It’s never too early to introduce your children to the wonders of the world. This Peruvian journey takes families on an odyssey through one of the world’s true adventure-travel capitals. From wildlife spotting in the Amazon rainforest to sea kayaking across Lake Titicaca for an unforgettable homestay with a local family. With someone taking care of all the arrangements, you’ll visit a llama farm, the historic city of Cuzco, and legendary Machu Picchu—all the while free to enjoy every moment of a true family adventure.

COLOMBIA

BIKE COLOMBIA BACK ROADS Colombia was selected by Outpost (well me, actually, as special travel advisor) as an emerging travel destination, one to consider now. On this trip you’ll discover why, as you tour the country’s historic capital of Bogota, with its rich colonial past and thriving present, before continuing on to the delightful village of Villa del Leyva. The next day you’ll mount a bicycle for a two-wheeled (but occasionally two-legged) tour of Colombia’s back roads. And visit paleontological sites and pre-Colombian astronomical centres, as well as hike ancient trails. Stay in cobblestoned colonial towns high in the Andes, visit organic coffee plantations and swim beneath mighty waterfalls.

PERU

THE LARES ADVENTURE TO MACHU PICCHU Explore Peru’s Sacred Valley of the Incas on this five-day trek through the Urubamba Valley. Hike quiet Andean trails, under the astonishing watchful eye of distant Andean peaks.

Visit the archaeological sites of Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu.

Meet the modern-day descendants of the ancient Incas, and shop in local markets. Pass turquoise lakes, herds of alpacas and llamas, and watch condors soar overhead, all while staying in stunningly beautiful mountain lodges.

MOUNTAIN LODGES OF PERU

mountainlodgesofperu.com

MOUNTAIN LODGES OF PERU

 877.491.5261 Length/Departs: 5 days/Mar.-Dec. Accommodation: lodges Price: $1,990 USD Difficulty: Moderate

ECUADOR

ADVENTURE LIFE

SEARCH FOR THE PINK DOLPHIN Venture deep into the Ecuadorian jungle by aircraft and motorized canoe, until you reach your luxurious small expedition ship and set sail along the magnificent Napo River. With the ship as your base you will explore this part of the glorious Amazonian rainforest by canoe, kayak and on foot, all in search of anaconda, black caiman, turtles, monkeys and the elusive pink dolphin. Visit aboriginal villages and local communities, climb an observation tower that rises beyond the forest canopy, and see hundreds of parrots and macaws at a parrot clay lick.

ADVENTURE LIFE

adventure-life.com

 800.344.6118 Length/Departs: 8 days/year-round Accommodation: Ship Price: $1,665 Difficulty: Easy

www.outpostmagazine.com

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EXPLORE!/ POLLY RUSYN

ITALY AND SLOVENIA BIKING

Since gaining independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, Slovenia has emerged as one of Europe’s hidden and undiscovered gems for travellers seeking a unique culture influenced by the rich traditions of its neighbours. This cycling exploration begins in the beautiful capital city of Ljubljana, before winding its way down quiet roads and country lanes, past pristine lakes and towering mountains, small villages, churches, monasteries and castles. Follow the Soca River into northeastern Italy, and end in the medieval town of Cividale del Friuli.

GREAT EXPLORATIONS

great-explorations.com

EXPLORE!

EUROPE

 800.242.1825 Length/Departs: 7 days/June.-Sept.

Accommodation: Hotel Price: $2,650 Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

ADVENTURES IN GEORGIA

A former satellite state of the USSR, Georgia has one of the richest and most unique cultures in Europe—with a language and an alphabet all its own, and possibly the world’s oldest wine region. And yet it remains largely undiscovered by most travellers. This trip can help change that, and includes not only the capital city of Tbilisi and other main sites, but also markets, fantastic hikes in the famed Caucasus Mountains, visits to ancient cave towns carved out of high cliffs, tours of local wineries, and stunningly amazing homecooked meals with local families.

EXPLORE!

exploreworldwide.ca

 888.216.3401 Length/Departs: 9 days/May, July, Aug. Accommodation: Hotel, guesthouses Price: $1,720 Difficulty: Easy

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TURKEY

KAYAKING ON THE TURQUOISE COAST There are few places better to explore by kayak than Turkey’s legendary southern Turquoise Coast.

On the Mediterranean Sea and blessed with quiet coves, secluded bays and perfect beaches, the region is ideal for keen beginners and experienced veterans alike. This supported trip spends its days leisurely paddling the idyllic coastline, exploring ancient archaeological sites, having a refreshing dip or just relaxing on a stretch of flawless sand. Come evening, you can continue your explorations, only this time in some of the area’s great eating spots.

EXODUS TRAVELS

exodustravels.com

 800.267.3347 Length/Departs: 8 days/June-Oct. Accommodation: Hotels Price: $1,235 Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

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ISTOCKPHOTO/ MATEJ KASTELIC ISTOCKPHOTO

ESTONIA, LATVIA AND LITHUANIA ON FOOT

Although part of the Soviet Union until the early 1990s, the Baltic states of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia never lost their unique identity or their culture—now is definitely the time to visit these amazing oncesecretive countries that have so much to offer any traveller! This walking tour explores all three countries from their capital cities of Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius, to national parks with rolling hills and valleys, sand dunes and pine forests. Medieval fortresses, castles and windmills, ancient fishing villages and even a spot of bog walking—with special bog shoes included!—are all on the itinerary.

EXPLORE!

exploreworldwide.ca

 888.216.3401 Length/Departs: 8 days/May-Sept.

Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses Price: $1,350 Difficulty: Easy to moderate www.outpostmagazine.com

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ALBERTA

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If you are an experienced glacial skier and winter camper with a high degree of fitness, this ski expedition will provide you with the skills and knowledge to be able to organize and execute your own future ski expeditions.

Yamnuska is a premier mountain school operator that not only specializes in guided expeditions but teaches people how to do so safely, including avalanche training.

Over the course of six days, participants will learn everything from making ice camps and preparing food, to reading weather, navigating, avoiding hazards and coping with emergencies. All against the backdrop of the Columbia Icefields and an attempt to summit Mt. Columbia, the highest peak in Alberta.

YAMNUSKA MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES

yamnuska.com

PATRICK ALLIOT/G ADVENTURES

 866.678.4164 Length/Departs: 6 days/April Accommodation: Camping Price: $1,695 Difficulty: Strenuous

YAMNUSKA MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES

NORTH AMERICA

MOUNT COLUMBIA SKI EXPEDITION

09/12/2014 10:26:58 AM

BLACK FEATHER

Blackfeather.com

 888.849.7668 Length/Departs: 15 days/JulyAug. Accommodation: Camping Price: $6,650 Difficulty: Strenuous

ONTARIO

ISTOCKPHOTO/ TYLER OLSON

YELLOWKNIFE, NWT

THE COPPERMINE RIVER There are few rivers that reach back further into Canada’s history than the Coppermine. After rendezvousing in Yellowknife, this challenging expedition paddles the last 400 kilometres through vast canyons, past rolling tundra and over raging rapids. You’ll pass the herds of caribou that attracted ancient hunters and canoe over the charspeckled waters that still attract Inuit today. Finally, within sight of the great Arctic Sea, you’ll camp at Bloody Falls, under an incredible clear black starry sky, satisfied that you have done your forebears proud.

FAMILY FRENCH RIVER

There’s nothing like a great family camping trip...until someone forgets the tent! This trip along Ontario’s French River—one of Canada’s great historical voyageur routes— takes care of all the packing, planning and food shopping, leaving just the fun, laughs, discovery and bonding for you and your family to experience.

Learn alongside your children as pros teach you how to canoe, read a river, pitch a tent, cook over a fire and spot wildlife, all while having an unforgettable family experience.

BLACK FEATHER

Blackfeather.com

 888.849.7668 Length/Departs: 4 days/July-Aug. Accommodation: Camping Price: $895 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

PATRICK ALLIOT/G ADVENTURES

ALASKA, U.S.A

YAMNUSKA MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES

ALASKA HIKE, BIKE AND RAFT Alaska is one of those places that have to be experienced, not just seen. This exploration steps out of the bus— private touring van, actually—and takes on the United States’ last frontier on foot, by mountain bike, kayak and raft. Trek on a mighty glacial icefield, race wild whitewater, search for grizzly bears and wolves, hike on the slopes of Mount McKinley, sleep in a rustic cabin and out in the open for a true taste of America’s great wilderness.

G ADVENTURES

gadventures.com

 888.800.4100 Length/Departs: 11 days/July-Aug. Accommodation: Hotel, lodge, camping Price: $3,349 Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

www.outpostmagazine.com

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A Not So Definitive

GUIDE TO THE of

Travel!

Can’t understand how an over-the-counter painkiller has you in handcuffs? Thought you were “just” exploring local culture when you climbed the sacred mount? Wondering if Yemen or Madagascar or volunteer travel are this year’s best options? Simon Vaughan, our senior travel advisor, (almost) knows everything travel you’ll ever need to know, and offers up some cool advice to help get you started

SAY ALOHA TO THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

ISTOCKPHOTO/ SERGEY SIDOROV

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e

E

A to Z www.outpostmagazine.com

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A

AURORA BOREALIS

Also known as the northern lights, the aurora borealis feature on many bucket lists. Though generally only a northern phenomenon, the spectacle has been spotted as far south as Hawaii—well, that was in 1859, so probably best not to make it your northern lights’ destination.

Generally, the further north you travel and more distant from manmade light you are, the better the display.

Whitehorse, Yukon has a great northern lights tourism infrastructure, while Yellowknife, Northwest Territories is one of the world’s northern lights capitals because it’s a perfect (celestial) storm of a flat landscape, high latitude and clear skies. One of the best southern vantage points in Canada is the Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve just north of Orillia, Ontario, while Iceland heads most international lists. The aurora borealis are best seen around midnight, from late autumn to early spring.

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08/12/2014 11:03:12 AM

Spectacular Places, Fascinating Cultures, Thrilling Adventures‌Fantastic Stories to Tell!

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Nobody Writes It Like Outpost

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08/12/2014 11:03:09 AM