TERRA
TRAVELERS
Extraordinary Findings in the World of Travel
Vol. 10 | Winter 2022
ACTIVE TRAVEL Safari Adventure
U.S. National Parks
Accessible & Active
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Publisher’s Letter
TERRA TRAVELERS
Traveling for Inspiration where deep inside each of us.
We always risk the curse of familiarity, and we can become complacent with our internal ponderings. One of the most interesting side-effects of the entire Covid-19 situation for me has been the way time has taken on a very odd rhythm. Units of time, We all seek inspiration. hours, days, weeks come and Thoreau sought out the quiet go with unusual pacing. It solitude of Walden Pond has been difficult to keep to ponder life. I travel for track of projects and mainthe same experience. Travel taining my attention span is a is a big part of my personal forced effort. I feel more like psyche, and I’m guessing you an observer right now than share my passion for being a participant. Anyone else on the road. But over the having a similar experience? past two years, we have largely been relegated to a more I suspect getting back to internalized understanding traveling may assist me in of our motivations for travel. overcoming this odd state of mind. So, I intend to travel I have no doubt my backyard more in 2022 and look forcan be as wonderous as Ant- ward to the end of the stasis arctica, but the stimulation I have endured. I suspect I of travel somehow predispos- will begin slowly and increase es my mind to be elevated both the duration and disto a different level. Creative tance of my travels. thinking requires raw material and I now know my backNot all productive activity yard to a greater degree than looks like work. Sometimes it I thought possible. But I involves feeding the mind the understand the awe we often raw material it needs to stay have the privilege of experirefreshed and healthy. I inencing while traveling exists tend to go looking for those not “out there” but someresources in 2022. 2 | | Terra Travelers
PUBLISHER Richard B. Earls
EDITOR Joey DeLoach
AUTHORS e. dawson richards Richard B. Earls The Terra Travelers Staff
EDITORIAL & CREATIVE DESIGN Erica Sager
MARKETING EXECUTIVES Randi White
CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTION Travel Research Online
CUSTOMER SERVICE Erin von Scherrer
TRAVELERS
TERRA
“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately...to live deep and suck out all the marrow of life, to live so sturdily and Spartan-like as to put to rout all that was not life, to cut a broad swath and shave close, to drive life into a corner, and reduce it to its lowest terms.” ~ Henry David Thoreau, Walden
EXTRAORDINARY FINDINGS IN TRAVEL
EXTRAORDINARY FINDINGS IN TRAVEL
Terra Travelers seeks to inspire a community of likeminded individuals that respect the road, respect the people we visit, and those with whom we travel.
60 Second Geography: Known as the gateway to Africa, the country of Morocco is situated in the north of the continent and shares close ties to Europe… culturally and location-wise. With just 8 miles of sea to cross before reaching Spain, the mixture of sometimes vastly different places has created an exotic and exciting location. The busy streets of major cities like Marrakech and Tangier are perfect for people watching from cafes. The mix of cultures that has come together has a way of diversity seldom known around the around. One of the most frequently visited cities in Morocco is Marrakech, the fourth largest city in the country, is known for many reasons. The Medina, the original walled-off part of the city, holds a feel of the ancient times. Narrow streets wind through the area, perfect to wander about without aim. Colorful and creative architecture adorn the walls and buildings, traditional markets line the streets filling the air with the smell of spices, the call to prayer of the many mosques echo through the air. The Medina’s beauty really shines when visiting the Jamaa El Fnaa. This square lies in the heart of the Medina and features flute players and other entertainers, scrumptious street food, and even the alluring movements of snake charmers. The city is also known for luxury stays and culinary treats for the traveler. Add in the classic cafes where sipping on coffee or tea is a popular past time… and you’ve got a city that will burned into the memories of any traveler.
Featured in the classic Hollywood film, Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco. Casablanca has become the image of modern Morocco, the economic center. The Hassan II Mosque, the second largest mosque in Africa and the seventh largest in the world—with the second tallest minaret (tower) in the world.- possesses a sleek design and is the most photographed point of interest in the city. The Medina, just as in Marrakech, is the historical center of Casablanca. Old Medina is trip back in time through small passages and along open markets. To the south of the country sits the iconic Sahara Desert. Being the largest hot desert in the world, it spans 3,600,000 sq mi. Temperatures reach up to 116° F, and it can be an inhospitable place. However, the people of this region have learned to navigate and survive it with relative ease. These skills are shown in the tours available to see this sparse and alien landscape. Of special interest is the oasis, a green island in the middle of seemingly infinite sand. The traveler can find tours to these and, wonderfully surprising, luxury stays within them. Often including a comfortable bed surrounded by authentic décor, live music, and a traditional feast… the oasis is a restful getaway from the desert and the traveler’s everyday grind.
MOROCCO
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Golf Va pg.
Yoga Retreats pg. 10
Accessible Travel pg. 6
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National Parks pg. 14
CONT
acation 20
Travel Insurance pg. 30
Hiking + Trekking Vacations pg. 20
ENTS
Safari Travel pg. 32
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Accessible Travel
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Travel is about access to new and different possibilities. To those indiviuals with physical or medical disabilities, however, the word “access” takes on a multi-dimensional meaning. Accessible travel is a goal, an adventure, a state of mind. Increasingly, accessible travel is a concern for the tens of thousands of senior adults seeking new experiences in all corners of the globe. As used here, “accessible travel” means travel that considers both the physical and cost hurdles that often face those with physical or mental impairment.
Planning Accessible Travel There is a growing awareness on the part of destinations and tour operators of the economic impact of failing to adequately compensate for accessible travel. As a result, more travel than ever falls into the general category of “accessible.” Nevertheless, a bit of planning is always in order when deciding on a vacation, where you must consider issues such as wheelchair or scooter access or if restaurants allow service animals. A good travel consultant is an invaluable ally when making accessible travel choices, and many are now certified in working in the range of accessible travel options available.
travelers who need special access or assistance. Your travel consultant will contact tour operators specializing in providing accessible travel. These tour operators have relationships with tourism offices, dining facilities, hotels, and attractions and are the best possible resource in researching a trip. However, it is important to use a tour operator with a reputation for solid customer service. Your travel agent’s research tools will quickly determine the top tour operators to use for any destination. In planning, be sure to give your travel advisor details about special needs you have as early in the planning process as possible. Just as importantly, however, let your agent know what you Using a Travel Advisor are willing to take on as a challenge. Travel advisors have professional For example, many articles indicate research tools providing inside that cobblestone streets or buildings information on the efforts destinations without elevators are not suitable for have undertaken to accommodate wheelchair users. However, such deci-
sions are best left to the traveler. You are the best judge of what is or is not appropriate for your physical abilities. A frank discussion with your travel consultant will make sure you receive the greatest possible value and that your expectations are met. Getting Prepared Travel can be physically taxing on any traveler. Speak with your physician about the best practices for visiting your selected destination as well as the particulars of your condition. Doctors familiar with travel medicine can work with you to make sure all of the appropriate immunizations and special considerations of your destination (i.e., altitude) are taken into account. If your condition requires special equipment such as wheelchairs, scooters, or oxygen, your travel Terra Travelers | | 7
consultant can assist you with determining the best way to either ship your own equipment or obtain similar equipment at your destination. Most airlines and cruise ships are acquainted with the need to accommodate wheelchairs and scooters but vary on whether they must be checked or enter the main cabin. Some airlines also require that batteries on motorized scooters be gel batteries rather than wet cell, so inform your travel agent of your needs and requirements in advance. Knowing the airline and cruise ship policies in advance makes it much easier to cope with any necessary requirements. Remember, too, that it may be difficult to get your wheelchair or scooter serviced in a far-off locale, so, if possible, have your equipment serviced before traveling. Again, your tour operator will provide good indications of the availability of repair and supply services at your destination. Likewise, undertake proper planning with regard to any medications you might need. It is best to travel with an adequate supply and a prescription to acquire more medicines should the need arise. When possible, always travel with your medical supplies, especially medicines, on your person to prevent problems arising from lost baggage. Traveling with service animals can be difficult when crossing borders. Many countries have very stringent quarantine requirements regarding the importation of animals to prevent rabies and other diseases. Special
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vaccination requirements and paperwork may be in order. Likewise, make sure that any hotels, B&Bs, or other accommodations permit service animals in advance. If possible, acquire letters from your accommodations in advance acknowledging their acceptance of your animal companions. Finally, do a bit of research on local veterinarian offices in case your service animal requires any attention while traveling. If you are traveling with a tour operator specializing in accessible travel, it is highly likely that your itinerary will take into account special considerations your condition might require. However, if you are not traveling with a specialist tour company, make sure that the rigors of the daily itineraries are suitable for your needs. In some instances, you may find yourself confronted with inaccessible buildings, museums, walkways, or distances. Make the Most of it! Days may be long without adequate facilities for your comfort. Again, these aspects of a trip are yours to determine and choose, but to the extent that you can properly anticipate any obstacles early in the planning process, the better equipped you will be to handle situations as they arise. The world is a big place. Make it your own.
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A TWIST ON WELLNESS TRAVEL Imagine this: you return from your vacation renewed and refreshed like you really had some time off. You have a stronger sense of purpose at work, a feeling of authenticity that permeates all your professional relationships. You are more the person you want to be at home: strong, energetic, and aware. It sounds like you just returned from a retreat at a center specializing in meditation and body soothing yoga. Think clean air, good simple food, no clutter, no telephones... and time to unwind and get reacquainted with yourself and loved ones. Far from being a “new age” junket, yoga retreats are a way to reconnect with the simple process of being. When all goes as planned, you not only return home feeling on top of the world - as though you have had a holiday - you will return with knowledge on how to maintain your newly centered feeling when back in the hustle and bustle of your everyday life.
Forget the mass market cruises, the theme parks, and the mad rush of too much in too little time. A meditation retreat does not mean you HAVE to go to India or sit unmoving in a cold cave at the top of a remote mountain. Meditation, yoga, taiji, and similar mind/body experiences, encompassing anything from spiritual to philosophical, are available in almost every corner of the world, from Buddhist retreats in Africa to yoga centers in Taiwan and Zendos in Switzerland. While this article focuses on yoga, many of the same opportunities exist for combining travel and other body/mind disciplines.
With a few structured searches and a visit to your travel professional, you will be able to plan a relaxing trip to the retreat of your choice and combine a wonderful vacation with the study of a relaxing, spiritual discipline - long before your incense stick has Breathe slowly and deeply and relax into the burned all the way down. thought of blissful peace and tranquility. 10 | | Terra Travelers
YOGA
RETREATS
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Choosing a Retreat
each day, or would a class in the morning followed by There is a mind-boggling your own choice of activiarray of retreat options from ties be more to your liking? which to choose. As always, Do you want a structured the best place to start is a environment? How much of careful consideration of each day is given to actual your interests and the destipractice, and how much to nations that coincide with other activities? Is the yoga your interests. If you already style one with which you are have a particular yoga style comfortable? Inquire about that you follow or know of daily routines. Do particia teacher or instructor with pants rise at dawn, or are whom you would like to classes available regularly study, you have successfully throughout the day? When narrowed your choices! If Yoga retreats and ashrams, are meals? Are there opporyou are open to a variety on the other hand, focus on tunities for non-scheduled of options, there are yoga yoga as the reason for attend- activities, or is the routine retreats in hundreds of ing. At a yoga retreat, you regimented? In general, what locations and venues: casare immersed in the world of are the ambiance and the tles, beaches, ashrams, and yoga: new positions, philosrhythm of the retreat you city parks. You can choose tropical locations in Hawaii, ophies, styles, and practices. have under consideration? Those around you are practipractice yoga in the Alps, tioners, and your instructors When evaluating a range of classes in Peru among anpossible retreats, consider cient ruins, or salute the sun are advanced adepts. Your the demographics of the in a monastery in California. time is structured, meals planned, and activities cenretreat’s typical client. Does Because yoga is so widely tered on yoga practice. You the retreat host a range of practiced and every village, experience yoga as part of a yoga practitioner skills, hamlet, town, and city has community in a sanctuary of focusing on the novice or many schools and styles advanced practitioner? What available, it is not an exagger- like-minded individuals. is the age range and gender ation to say that anywhere When choosing your own of a typical client? Finding you desire to visit, you will yourself out of your skill levfind an opportunity to prac- yoga vacation experience, el or mixed with others with tice yoga with an instructor. find a point on the spectrum of opportunities with little in common will likely which you and any traveling result in disappointment. The more interesting chalcompanions will be comAlso, inquire about the lenge will be determining number of students that will whether you are looking for fortable. Will everyone in your group be happy with be present during your visit. a resort type of experience your choice? Do you want to Too small a group results in or a more profound, more commit to hours of practice little interaction with a variintensive experience. Most 12 | | Terra Travelers
resorts provide some opportunity for yoga practice, so with informal classes and others with more formal instruction. The resort experience typically ensures that you will stay limber and toned while enjoying a more traditional vacation experience. Resorts offer flexibility and a chance to practice while vacationing with others who may be non-practitioners.
ety of people while too many students mean less interaction with instructors. Diet and food are often very important aspects of a yoga retreat’s amenities. Again, inquire about the dietary philosophies and food preparations during your planning stages. Most will provide a range of foods and diets, from vegan to full cuisine, from raw food diets, and all manner of specialty culinary experiences in between. Make sure that your own goals closely match the dietary offerings of the center you will be visiting. Note, too, most facilities on the more intensive side of the spectrum do not allow caffeine or alcohol and may restrict other substances as well. A week or more of a highly specialized diet can either be a blessing or a burden, so choose with care. Your travel costs and opportunities, as well as the climate of your preference, may have a lot to do with the season during which you choose to visit your yoga center. Ask your
travel consultant to price both peak and offpeak travel seasons to provide you with some insight into the range of travel opportunities available to you. If you’ve not done this sort of thing before, do expect to be stretched - if not (ever so gently) in a physical manner with controlled yoga or flowing taiji exercises, then mentally as your perceptions of reality are questioned - often through silence, sometimes through very simple, but revealing exercises. If you are contemplating some serious training - albeit in yoga, Taiji, or mediation - do some practice to get into shape both mentally and physically. Some basic stretching, conditioning, and toning for yoga, leg strength and taiji training for taiji and some sitting practice for meditation. Now, pack your mat and hit the road.
breathe in
breathe out Terra Travelers | | 13
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U.S.
NATIONAL PARKS
ADVENTURE
SEA TO SHINING SEA
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In 1872, Yellowstone National Park became the first national park in the United States. Today, there are 390 areas under the National Park domain. With the exception of Delaware, every state has some National Park Service land. This land includes national parks, monuments, battlefields, military parks, historic parks, lakes and seashores, rivers, trails, historic sites, and the White House. The National Park system provides plenty of opportunities for a variety of vacations and tours. Well over 250,000,000 people visit these sites every year. From educational tours, back-to-nature experiences to relaxing seaside holidays, the plethora of opportunities for recreation at the National Parks is endless.
PLANNING Use this article to assist you in planning your visit to a National Park with our agency. Whether you are flying or driving, your travel consultant can assist you with transportation choices, accommodations along the way and at the park, as well as with very important travel advice that will keep you focused on your vacation and visit rather than on the logistics of travel. In addition to independently planned trips to any national park, we also have access to tour packages providing additional amenities, guides, transportation, and meals often not available to those booking independent tours. Many tour operators have access to unique accommodations and provide logistical support for groups. In some instances, tour operators offer excursions to multi16 | | Terra Travelers
ple national parks in a single tour, allowing the traveler to sit back, relax and let someone else do the driving. Many such tours are nearly all-inclusive, encompassing meals, transportation, accommodations, and all passes, organizing the traveler’s time so that travel and sightseeing are efficient and affordably on budget.
shops, museums, and educational opportunities. Choosing a National Park Service site for a vacation depends on your budget, your time allotment, and, most of all, your idea of a vacation. Many National Park Service sites have park rangers that lead programs, including interpretive walks and hikes, shows at the visitor centers, and other CHOOSING A NATIONAL special events. There are Junior PARK Ranger programs at many parks The mission of the National Park where children can earn badges Service is to “preserve the natural by exploring the park and perand cultural resources for the enforming simple tasks. joyment, education, and inspiraMany parks have lodging that tion of this and future generations.” includes simple cabins, camping Along those lines, vacations to the areas, and rustic lodges. There are National Park Service sites should concession stands, small grocery follow that goal. You won’t find stores, and restaurants at many amusement parks and fast rides sites. And for those who always at the parks, but you will find just need to buy a souvenir, many about everything else, including have beautiful stores with books,
clothes, and jewelry items for sale. Pets are welcome at most National Park Service sites so long as they are appropriately restrained.
events and interactive displays; ski; fish, and in some, even hunt. And of course, you can always relax and enjoy the scenery! At many parks, there are unique WHAT TO DO? natural attractions to visit and Interested in history? Visit Gettyswatch. No one would visit Yelburg National Military Park. Want lowstone National Park without to swim? Visit Assateague Nawatching Old Faithful erupt at least tional Seashore. Always wanted once! to spot a grizzly bear? Try one of Alaska’s parks. Visit the National WILDLIFE Park Service website at www.nps. Many national parks, forests, and gov to learn more about the Na- seashores are perfect settings for tional Park Service and find out animal lovers. The animals are more about a park or site. protected in the parks, so they are Recreational activities available often plentiful where you may not vary from park to park and season see them in other areas. In our nato season. At many parks, you can tional parks, you can see animals hike miles and miles of trails and such as grizzly and black bears, paths on your own or participate elk, moose, deer, jackrabbits, in an interpretive hike with a rang- squirrels, various snakes and fish, er; bike; swim; visit the visitor cen- turtles, marmots, groundhogs, praiters and museums and partake in rie dogs, rabbits, wolves, coyotes,
manatees, and even whales. Bird watching is another favorite hobby with national park visitors. Stop in at the National Park Service visitors’ and nature center when you first arrive at a park to see what wildlife and bird sightings you can expect at that park. Of course, use caution when necessary around wild animals. Park rangers and naturalists are well trained in local wildlife and fauna and are a wealth of knowledge for park visitors. PARK PASSES Some of the national parks charge an admission fee. Fees vary from park to park. For those visiting several parks per year, there is a National Parks Pass, an annual pass that provides admission to any national parks that charge an admission fee. Currently, the Terra Travelers | | 17
pass is $80 for one full year. The year starts from the first use of the pass in a park. If traveling on an organized tour, pass fees are often, but not always included in the tour fee. Be sure to ask your travel consultant. It is important to note that when the park has a per vehicle entrance fee, the National Parks Pass admits the pass owner and any passengers in the vehicle (this is per private vehicle, not a commercial vehicle). If the park charges a per-person entrance fee, the National Park Pass is good for the owner, spouse, children, and parents. Passes are non-transferable. It is also important to note that the fees do not include or reduce fees for camping, tours, concessions, or parking. You may purchase or obtain a pass at any national park where an entrance fee is charged, online at https://www.usparkpass.com/ or telephone 1-888-GO-PARKS (1-888-467-2757). A Golden Eagle sticker may be purchased for an additional $15. The Golden Eagle provides admission to sites managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Bureau of Land Management in addition to the National Parks. This sticker is affixed to the National Parks Pass. The same restrictions apply as the National Parks Pass. Those age 62 or older are eligible for a lifetime admission and discount pass to the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Corps of Engineers, Fish and Wildlife Service, Forest Service, and the Tennessee Valley Authority sites. This pass is called the Golden Age Passport and costs $10. You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States to be eligible for this pass. You will also need to show proof of age and residency. You may also receive discounts on federal use 18 | | Terra Travelers
fees using your Golden Age Passport. These fees may include camping, swimming, parking, and other services. PARK ACCESSIBILITY The National Park Service has made tremendous strides in accessibility for those with disabilities. Many attractions are accessible, including some trails that are wheelchair accessible or designated for those who are blind and are marked with Braille signage. There is also a pass for those with a permanent disability or blindness. The Golden Access Passport is free and a lifetime pass to U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States who have a medical determination and documentation of permanent disability or blindness. Golden Age Passports and Golden Access Passports must be obtained in person at a federal area, including the National Park, Wildlife Refuge, or Forest, where an entrance fee is charged. Please bring appropriate documentation. WHERE TO EAT & STAY Cabins, campgrounds, and hotels/lodges are available at many National Park Services sites. The website will provide more information. Reservations are strongly suggested. It is usually very easy to get a meal at one of the National Park Service sites. Many have concession stands, and informal restaurants for quicker meals, and those with the nicer, larger hotels or lodges often have more upscale restaurants in those locations. Often, especially parks with campgrounds will have small grocery stores or food available in the visitors’ centers. If food isn’t available at the actual park, often there are restaurants and stores in nearby towns. The United States is truly blessed with a panorama of sites and natural wonders. Make visiting a National Park one of your travel goals soon.
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20 | | Terra Travelers
TEE UP A
GOLF VACATION
Imagine breathing in the ocean wind while teeing off in Bermuda or learning the game’s history while making par at St. Andrew’s. Whether you want to see how your game measures up against the pros on a PGA Tour course or bask in the lush green scenery of an exotic locale, a golf vacation is an ultimate getaway for those who love the game. Find real excitement playing a new, unfamiliar course, especially one thousands of miles from home. Terra Travelers | | 21
Planning an invigorating, unforgettable golf getaway can be daunting: lodging, transportation, restaurant choices, shipping clubs, local course rules, tee times, and cart rentals all conspire to add new complexity to your itinerary. Here is where your travel consultant is worth their weight in gold. Because of golf travel’s popularity, tour operators are offering increasingly competitive deals on domestic and international packages - from budget to luxury. Work with your travel consultant to narrow down the many tour operators that offer packages to destinations you would like to visit and play. In particular, you want a tour operator experienced in golf packages that can provide you with excellent, even preferred tee times and can coach you and your companions in all of the local rules of the courses you will visit. The number of potential destinations for your golf vacation is genuinely staggering. Practically every country in the world with a tourism industry has golf listed as one of its primary attractions. You could head to Ireland or Scotland and become one with the history and mystery of the game and enjoy summertime hours on the course as late as 9 p.m. You can head to Hawaii and learn to surf and bogie on the same day. The Caribbean, comprised of 700 islands, offers more possibilities than you can imagine. Then you have exotic, Far East destinations where golf has taken a firm but zen-like grip on nations like Japan and Thailand. Not to mention spectacular domestic destinations like Phoenix, Palm Springs, or the Greenbriar in West Virginia.
your weather conditions. While the savings can be substantial, do not underestimate the heat if you are planning on a trip to Florida or a tropical destination. However, in other destinations, such as Ireland and Scotland, off-season weather can translate into wet, cold, and gale-force winds. Choose wisely! Perhaps you will want to take advantage of several courses on your trip. If this is the case, you should allocate sufficient time for transportation between courses and the logistics of settling into your accommodations. On the other hand, sticking with one or two courses will allow for some relaxing downtime if you’re limited to a weekend trip. Booking tee times in advance is a must. Your travel consultant will determine how far in advance reservations can be made from the tour operator, as this varies with each course. If not, you will need to inquire about tee time reservation guidelines and make your arrangements as early as possible, especially for better-known courses. Also, be aware that many golf resorts offer their guests first choice concerning tee times, which might give you reason to stay at the resort rather than off-premises. Before leaving home, you will want to know whether the course you’ll be playing has any restrictions. More popular courses often require a particular handicap of players, and at times, a home course letter of recommendation. Such courses might also specify a maximum amount of time allotted to complete a round - something to consider, especially if the course does not allow golf carts.
If you’re on a budget, you have an opportunity to save money and still play some of the best courses by traveling off-season. Your travel consultant will help you plan for “low” to “high” season travel, but if you choose the low season, remember that the trade-off is always Another option would be vacationing at a golf school,
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which can be the perfect opportunity for players at every level who are looking to lower their scores. Many golf schools boast instructors who are PGA Tour professionals. Many also use state-of-the-art technology to analyze and enhance your golf swing. The training can be as focused or as broad as you wish, given the many schools offering multiple programs. For this reason, advance research is imperative. Golf schools offer professional instruction for small groups with a particular skill level. Be sure to inquire about the school’s teacher/student ratio before you go. One-on-one lessons may also be available at an additional cost. Instruction is usually given early in the day so participants can practice what they’ve learned in the afternoon. Golf school programs vary in length from a day to a week, and program costs vary as well. Costs are generally dependent on the intensity of the instruction, travel season, and whether or not accommodation and meals are included. MANAGING YOUR CLUBS Since playing with a set of clubs different from your own can hinder your game, renting clubs, though an option at many courses, is not advisable if it can be avoided. When traveling by plane, pack your clubs in a high-quality travel bag, and stuff the bag with as many small items as possible (gloves, balls, tees, etc) to conserve space in your luggage and to provide a bit of padding for your clubs. Just a note - clubs cannot be a carry-on item, so don’t even try. A hard case is recommended for travel on airlines to prevent damage to the clubs from other bags and inevitable rough handling. As a precaution, check to see if the loss of your clubs would be covered under your
homeowner’s insurance or if a rider to your policy is necessary. Travel insurance is also a good idea. Items generally covered by a typical travel insurance policy include airfare, baggage, health, and trip cancellation/interruption for up to a year. Remember that your health insurance may not be valid abroad, so check into that. Golf travel can be expensive and the planning time-consuming. Having the practiced eye of your travel consultant to arrange your vacation is a good idea - to make the most of your financial and time investment. Your travel agent can suggest tour packages at just about any destination that includes all the necessities and more, letting you enjoy your golf and travel without worrying about the logistics. If you wish to play courses other than those included in your tour package, your travel consultant should easily be able to make the necessary arrangements and adjust the price of your package accordingly. Also, many tour companies offer “golf widow” rates for any in your group who may travel along but do not play. Tour operators assist with daily itineraries, accommodations, and transportation and provide access to courses and opportunities you might not be able to achieve on your own. When you make your final plans, inquire about relevant cancellation policies, as well as any fees incurred if you change your golf schedule. And although you’re counting on sunny skies, you may want to ask about a rain refund policy. Once your plans are set - it’s time to relax and enjoy the trip ahead. Travel on and tee up! The green awaits.
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THE ROAD GOES ON
FOREVER
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HIKING & TREKKING VACATIONS If you love nature and enjoy getting a great workout, a hiking tour may be for you. Hiking tours, or trekking tours as they are sometimes known, are about much more than just walking. The most intensive treks can take days to complete, and they take you to exciting places that can only be reached by foot. With trekking tours, you can explore caves, remote mountain peaks and villages seen by only a handful of travelers - you can go just about anywhere. Trekking tours are extremely flexible and versatile, allowing you to choose the style of hiking, sights you want to see, and intensity of the exercise. Not surprisingly, hiking tours provide an excellent way to improve your fitness - a 130 pound person carrying a 20 - pound backpack can burn more than 1,300 calories on a four-hour hike. Trekking improves the condition of your heart, immune system, and bone density while building endurance and strength. Being outdoors in clean air provides you with the oxygen you need to feel great, and the natural scenery can clear your mind and reduce stress.
You will find tours for younger hikers, older hikers, beginning and advanced hikers, and hikers who enjoy different lifestyles. Since you will be spending much time with your travel companions, it is imperative to select a tour that includes hikers you will be able to get along with easily. It’s also essential to select an itinerary on par with your skill and fitness level. Hiking tours range from low-impact trails to very intense experiences that may include rock climbing and other extreme sport opportunities. To stay safe and happy, choose a trip that’s challenging but won’t overwhelm you (or your legs). The list of hiking and trekking vacation destinations is nearly endless but, in no particular order, here are some you may want to speak with your travel consultant about.
• Netherlands & Belgium Walking & Hiking • Camino de Santiago de Compostela, Spain • Chile Patagonia & Fjords All that and a vacation, too! March on. • Sedona, Arizona • Lake Country, United Kingdom The experience of a trekking tour is ideal for travelers • The Basho Wayfarer, Japan who enjoy the outdoors. It is a great travel opportunity for • Refugio Frey and Cerro Catedral, Argentina anyone who wants a unique, active vacation. Hiking tours • Mount Toubkal, Morocco vary widely, and travelers can choose destinations, compan- • The Dingle Way, Ireland ions, and intensity levels to custom- create the vacation of • Lares and Royal Inca Trail, Peru their dreams. Many trekking tours involve destinations in remote areas The accommodations on these adventures range from rich in wildlife or interesting scenery, taking place on dormitories to hostels, tents, and fine hotels. Google a few mountain trails, along oceans, or deep within forests. of these to get some ideas and feed your curiosity! Trips also vary widely based on the travelers they attract. Terra Travelers | | 25
Travel Consultants & Tour Operators If you want to create your own hiking tour, a travel consultant can help ensure that you get the hiking experience you want on your specific budget. In many cases, a travel consultant will do much of the preliminary research for you, weeding through the details of tours and destinations so that you have all the information you need to plan a hiking vacation. A qualified travel consultant helps you decide what you are looking for in a hike and will explain all the options available, especially regarding the quality of tour companies, packages that may or may not include transportation and lodging, and other travel logistics. After talking with a travel consultant, you will be far more knowledgeable about the available opportunities and become aware of the best values. Hiking tour operators can offer guides, routes, logistical support, itineraries, equipment, accommodations, emergency help, outdoor savvy, professional experience, safety precautions, food, and additional activities. Some hiking tour operators offer all these features, while others provide only basic emergency aid and itineraries. When selecting a company, work with your agent to ensure you have access to the amenities you need, safety assistance, and guides with hiking experience that exceeds your own.
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Plann
When planning a trekking tour, you’ll ne This can be difficult because you’ll find h nent. You can hike through jungles, fores coastal areas. You can even find urban hi significant city attractions.
If you have trouble deciding on a destina what you want to see while hiking on vac aries offering spectacular bird watching, r ocean walks. You can also choose a tour trekking tours cater specifically to photog or spiritual exploration. Some even offer water rafting and mountain biking- in ad help you narrow your options.
Once you decide where you want to go, l tination(s). Ask your travel consultant fo
ning
climate, elevation, altitude, and terrain details. Also, find out how much hiking you will do each day.
eed to decide where you want to go. hiking tours available on every contists, volcanoes, mountains, swamps, and iking tours that take you to city ruins or
Depending on what you find out, you may need additional equipment or training to prepare you for the rigors of a hike.
ation, you could start by asking yourself cation. Some tour operators have itinerrare plant hunts, prehistoric caving, or based on the activities it supports: some graphy enthusiasts, history buffs, artists, r access to extreme sports like white ddition to hiking. Choosing a theme will
The company you eventually select should offer tips and lists for you to follow when preparing and packing.
learn everything you can about the desor information or assistance researching
If you are hiking at high altitudes, for example, you may need extra conditioning and a visit to the doctor to ensure that your body can take the additional stress. If you are hiking along slippery trails, you may need to purchase extra- grip boots.
When considering hiking tours, look closely at food, accommodations, and other factors that impact your non-trekking time. Your tour operator may have chosen specific lodgings or campsites. Inquire about all the hotels, B&Bs, or camping grounds where you will be staying. Similarly, the tour operator’s choice of food and preparation methods are important, especially if you are a vegetarian or traveling in a foreign country. If you have any special needs or requirements for lodging or food, make sure the tour can accommodate those needs by informing your travel consultant early in the booking process. Find out exactly what costs the tour price covers, and if there are additional costs, you’ll need to cover on the hike. If you must take cash, remember to always carry it with you.
Health Preparation If you are traveling outside of the country or even your immediate area for your hiking tour, ask your doctor to recommend you to a physician with travel medicine experience. Inquire about any vaccines you may need for your journey. Also, ask about any water and food precautions for your destination. Depending on where you go, you may need to make special provisions to ensure that what you are eating and drinking is safe. If you are hiking at altitudes above 7,000 feet, you should discuss additional considerations with a doctor. Talking to a knowledgeable travel medicine specialist is your best way to ensure that you will relax and enjoy your active travels.
What To Pack As mentioned, consult with the tour operator about what to pack and the weather. You will need hiking shoes and a backup pair, if possible. These shoes should be designed specifically for hiking and made by a reliable brand. They should have great treads for traction, a metal shank for support, and ankle support, in addition to being waterproof, lightweight, and very comfortable. Try on many pairs and choose the best quality pair with the most comfortable fit - this is not a time to try to save $50 if it means you’ll be anything less than totally confident in your shoes. Bad shoes on a hiking tour can cause great discomfort and even injury. Never break in a new pair of boots or shoes on your trip; wear these shoes while you train for as many hours as possible. You will also need to pack high-quality socks to avoid painful blisters, shirts for layering, and light rain jackets. Look for the newest synthetic sports materials Terra Travelers | | 27
that whisk sweat away from your body. You may need mittens, hats, and cold-weather wear on some hikes, along with sunscreen, insect repellant, and sunglasses. You may also want to pack your sketch pad, notebook, or camera to record your trip - keeping in mind that you’ll be carrying it. Some hikers also like to use walking sticks, heart monitors, or pedometers.
days, the sun can wreak havoc on unprepared hikers. Follow all the rules that your tour operator sets out for you. These rules are made for your own safety.
All travel entails some risks. Trekking tours have additional risks associated with outdoor physical activity. For these reasons, you will want to work with a responsible and safety-conscious tour operator that your professional travel agent can confidently recommend.
Respect the environment, the tour operator, your hiking companions, and anyone you meet on the trip. Be friendly and do not go off by yourself, away from approved hiking areas. Do not pick up or remove plants or animals from their natural environment. Do not litter. Strive to leave the environment just as you found it, or better. Use good equipment - especially good hiking shoes. If your tour operator offers you equipment, make sure it is safe and in good condition. If you buy your own, make sure you buy the correct equipment from a qualified store. Get a salesperson to help you.
In addition, you can do many things to stay safe on your hike: Drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and a hat, and don’t push yourself beyond your physical limits. Even on overcast
Good trip interruption and medical insurance are highly recommended, as with all travel. Remember that your medical insurance policy may not cover you for out-of-country travel.
Risks
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CONRAD MALDIVES RANGALI ISLAND WITH AIRFARE OVERVIEW
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TRAVEL INSURANCE
Ready to travel but hesitant to buy? Travel insurance can help.
You’ve planned your dream vacation. Maybe you are finally taking that family cruise your kids have been begging you for or leaving everything behind and heading to that all-inclusive resort you’ve been dreaming about after a wildly different couple of years than you expected (thank you, COVID-19). Perhaps you are planning that whitewater rafting adventure with your friend group or arranging an experience through wine country, or even just visiting loved ones you have not seen in way too long. There is certainly no shortage of reasons to travel or adventures to take. With the world opening back up bit by bit – even in the face of some setbacks with the pandemic – more people are traveling now than since pre-pandemic times. But they are doing so cautiously and with understandable hesitation, often waiting until the last minute to hit that buy button or give their travel agent the go-ahead. This can mean shelling out premium rates for transportation and accommodations. And with flight cancellations, changing country guidelines regarding COVID-19, and a multitude of other reasons, there is still the chance that travel plans could get diverted. So, what is a travel-seeker to do? Travel insurance might be the answer you are looking for to help ease the uncertainty about when to buy. But who, what, why, when, where, and how do you buy it? Let’s break it down.
What is Travel Insurance?
The purpose of travel insurance is to help protect you if something unforeseen happens that causes you to cancel or interrupt your trip. Say you are getting ready to leave for a vacation, become ill, and cannot travel. Travel insurance can help mitigate the financial loss you would otherwise face if your airfare or other trip expenses are non-refundable.
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Who Needs Travel Insurance?
Quite honestly, all travelers can benefit from adding travel insurance to their trip these days more than ever. Suppose you purchase non-refundable items such as airfare, tickets to an event, rental adventure sports gear, etc. It can all be covered, at least partially, by the right travel insurance plan.
Why Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance helps to protect the investment you place into your trip. It could reimburse you if something unforeseen were to occur that interrupts or forces you to cancel your trip, such as travel delay, sickness, injury, or death of a family member. Additionally, due to COVID-19, travel insurance may be required to enter your destination. If you don’t comply with your destination’s travel regulations, you might not be able to enter the country and could be stuck in customs waiting for a flight home.
When Should I Buy Travel Insurance?
You should purchase travel insurance within a week of the first payment on your trip. Still, you can buy trip cancellation plans up until the day before you leave. For plans that offer Cancel For Any Reason, you must purchase the benefit within a specified time from the initial deposit date. We’ll cover the different types of travel insurance a little later.
How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?
There is no straightforward answer to this question, but it is typically a fraction of your trip cost. Variables such as your age, budget, trip cost, trip duration, destination, and type of plan you purchase all weigh into the price. Plans range from covering the basics to comprehensive plans with all the bells and whistles and everything in between. A good insurance provider will advise you and customize a plan to suit your needs.
What Types of Travel Insurance Are Available?
There are many types of travel insurance plans available. Be sure to do your homework and speak with a trusted travel agent or travel insurance provider to determine the most appropriate plan for you. Whatever plan you purchase, make sure it does not exclude COVID-19 coverage and treats it like any other sickness. This helps ensure that you are covered if you contract COVID-19 while traveling. Below are a few of the most popular types of plans that you may come across in your research: Travel Medical Insurance – Many people don’t realize their primary medical insurance may not cover them once they leave their home country. Travel medical insurance may help cover emergency medical costs in this instance. It can help cover emergency room visits, co-pays, and medical equipment. Trip Cancellation Insurance – Reimburses you for the prepaid and non-refundable costs of your trip when the trip is canceled for a covered reason. Annual Trip Cancellation Insurance – Planning to take more than three trips in one calendar year? Bundle all your trips into one insurance policy to save on costs. Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) – Optional benefit that can be added to some trip cancellation policies. CFAR allows you to cancel your trip up to two days before departure and still be reimbursed up to 75% of prepaid, non-refundable costs of your trip, regardless of the reason. You must purchase the CFAR benefit within a specified amount of time from the initial deposit date — generally 14-21 days — and insure all prepaid non-refundable trip costs.
Trip Interruption Insurance – Covers expenses if your trip was interrupted by a terrorist attack or natural disaster. This insurance can refund your remaining prepaid costs and cover your additional lodging and trip home costs. Trip Delay Insurance – if your flight is delayed by inclement weather or other covered reasons, trip delay insurance can reimburse costs associated with the delay, such as additional transportation, lodging, and meals. Adventure Travel Insurance – A more specialized insurance for the intrepid among us. Whether your passion for adventure takes you down into the deep sea or climbing up the face of a tall mountain (and hundreds of places in between), adventure travel insurance is for you. It can help cover the unexpected, from rental adventure sports equipment costs to search and rescue.
Where Do I Buy Travel Insurance?
Alright, now that you know the who, what, when, why, and how of travel insurance, you understand its importance and are ready to buy! But where does one go to purchase travel insurance? Your trusted travel agent can assist you with your purchase! Whatever you do, take the trip. Go on the adventure. Visit your loved ones. Relax. See all the sights. Visit all the wineries. Do whatever it is you love, and do it knowing that if something happens, travel insurance has you covered.
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SAFARI PLANNING AN AFRICAN SAFARI
The word safari is Swahili for travel, trip, or journey. For those lucky individuals who have been on safari, it takes on a special place in memory as a trip of a lifetime. In the travel industry, an African safari refers to a type of travel that typically involves these elements: ◊ At least one country in Africa ◊ Extensive sightseeing, with an emphasis on wildlife sightings ◊ An expert guide (although some self-guided safaris can be arranged, it is not recommended) For animal and nature lovers, few types of travel are as rewarding as a safari. Many who have been will tell you the countries of Africa connect with the human psyche like few other places. Africa is not a destination - it is a point of origin. An African safari is a trip like no other. On safari, you come face to face with creation in all its glory, with nature at its most untouched. Few people come away from a safari the same as they first arrived. A safari is an opportunity to travel off the beaten path, creating memories that last a lifetime. Like any specialized trip, the key to a successful safari is education, preparation, and planning. 32 | | Terra Travelers
Guided Safaris
Your travel professional’s travel industry connections will provide you with the best possible range of tour operators to fit every budget and type of safari. You will have several options when choosing a guide, as well as the degree of comfort on your safari. A guided safari is best for most travelers, particularly if this is your first safari. However, you can arrange an independent, self-drive safari through a tour operator who can provide a vehicle, maps, itineraries, provisions, tents, and park passes. Guided safaris involve the presence of a trained, experienced guide who accompanies travelers (as a group or privately) throughout the itinerary. Guides are typically knowledgeable about local animals, plants, and weather conditions. A good guide will know the best locations for animal viewing, which saves time and makes the trip much more efficient. Many guides are trained botanists or zoologists and have a sharp eye for animals and plants that the untrained eye might miss. Finally, guides usually speak both English and the native language, a skill that will come in handy time and time again! (Be sure to check with your travel consultant to learn specifics about the guides a safari company uses). Guides are also charged with obtaining park and camping permits, in addition to setting up and breaking down any camps.
Accommodations
Travelers also have their choice of accommodations while on safari. Some campgrounds and accommodations are in the game parks, while others are outside of the boundary of the officially designated parks. Tented safaris are camping excursions with tents and mobile locations, usually in well-defined tent areas where the parks allow it. Tour operators sometimes offer varied luxury in tents, from bare canvas tenting to deluxe, permanent tent structures. Camping is part of the traditional “mobile” safari, where travelers cross the countryside in a four-wheel-drive vehicle supplied by a safari operator.
Lodge safaris offer several accommodations throughout the itinerary that range from rustic to the ultimate in luxury. If you are looking for luxury, it is possible to arrange Fly-In safaris where the tour operator uses small aircraft to airlift travelers to vehicles in-game parks for a day or more of animal viewing. Not all types of safaris are offered at all parks or by all companies, so it is important to ask about options and plan what will make you most comfortable and excited about the trip.
Choosing Your Safari
In addition to the general safaris already mentioned, you can also choose from a great variety of specialized safaris. For example, Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania and Liwonde National Park in Malawi offer canoe safaris to view hippos and crocodiles. Rwanda, Uganda, and Gabon offer opportunities for gorilla safaris. As you can see, part of the fun of planning your trip can be choosing your safari. Safaris can also be as luxurious or rugged as you’d like - which is why the assistance of a good travel consultant is highly recommended. Trained travel consultants typically have inside knowledge and various resources to find you the best value and safari company, based on what you want from your trip.
Wildlife
Most travelers go on a safari for the opportunity to see the amazing wildlife of the African landscape. The most commonly sighted animals include the “Big 5”: lion, elephant, cape buffalo, leopard, and rhino. However, a multitude of other species is a part of the safari experience - including zebra, giraffe, cheetah, baboon, wildebeest, and gazelle. In some areas, gorillas, chimpanzees, crocodiles, hippos, and other exotic animals make their homes. Spotting wildlife is a matter of luck, patience, and Terra Travelers | | 33
a good guide. Especially in the dry season, animals tend to gather around waterholes, which make excellent viewing spots. On rare occasions, you might spot a lion or cheetah stalking a gazelle or other plant-eater - a spectacular sight. Most animal viewing is done from the safety of a four-wheel-drive vehicle that animals largely ignore. Seldom in the parks are visitors allowed to get out of their vehicles, except in specially designated areas.
Planning
The first step in planning a safari is to make sure you are prepared for the physical demands of the trip. Because most game viewing is done from a vehicle, travelers are not limited by physical impairment or infirmity. However, some camping locations or the demands of trekking in mountain ranges may prohibit some from the rigors of the experience, as can the need to spend several hours at a time in a vehicle. In addition to considering the physical demands of a safari, travelers should be aware of the necessity to protect against indigenous diseases such as malaria. As early as possible in the planning stage, consult a physician to determine what shots and other precautions you need before travel. Travelers are well-advised to book as far in advance as possible. This allows plenty of time to get the best possible airfares and rates on guides and make appropriate preparations for shots and medications. Some safaris sell out, so booking well in advance makes good sense. All African countries require passports, and most, but not all, require visas from most foreign visitors. While travelers can often obtain a visa upon arrival, purchasing the visa as preparation for the trip is recommended. As always, we will assist you in understanding and obtaining the appropriate documentation.
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When you start to think about as possible. A good, comfortab es, sunscreen, insect repellent must. Long sleeve shirts and li protect against mosquitoes, w less likely to attract insects. “C popular because of their versa vide a complete list of recomm can ask your local outdoor sho
Is Saf
Any travel entails some degree and thousands of lucky individ without incident. Here are a fe joy your safari:
Prepare for the trip with a visit physically prepared and have t malarials Listen to your guide! Do not, un your guide or avoid their sage a Avoid swimming in bodies of w water? See that log? That’s no Watch animals from a distanc ening nor tasty, and if you happ expectedly, leave it plenty of ro away quietly and slowly, near t If on a tented safari, stay inside Stay hydrate out the Resp th b
packing – it’s best to pack as lightly ble pair of boots, a hat, sunglasst, and loose, layered clothing are a ight jackets for cool evenings also while neutral colors blend in and are Convertible” shirts and pants are atility. Your tour operator will promended clothing and gear, and you op for even more advice.
fari Safe?
e of risk, but know that thousands duals safari each year in Africa ew tips to ensure that you safely en-
t to a doctor to make sure you are the recommended shots and anti-
nder any circumstances, over-rule advice water (Hot? Want a cool dip in the o log) ce; you want to look neither threatpen to encounter an animal unoom for escape and begin walking to your guide e your tent at night ed by drinking clean water throughday, even if you are not thirsty pect the local inhabitants: you are heir guest, and your guide is your best friend
When To Go?
There is no real consensus as to when the best time to go on safari might be. Many prefer the dry season, roughly from May through August, also the African winter. The weather is generally more comfortable, and therefore this is peak travel season. During the dry season, animals congregate around water holes and are highly visible, and the vegetation is low and dry, providing unobstructed views. However, animal migrations are in progress during this season, and some animals may not be present as they travel to find water elsewhere. The rainy season brings water and the early birthing cycle of many animals. The young make for good viewing, and it is not unusual to see the large predator cats feeding. You can find a safari experience for every budget and type of traveler, from a single traveler to a family or a newlywed couple. Get your gear and get traveling Africa awaits.
As with any active vacation, travel insurance covering trip cancellation, trip interruption, and medical emergencies is a good idea and one you should discuss in detail with your insurance providers
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