From rich history in the heart of Peru and the nearly untouched wilds of the Galapagos Islands, to a trek to the height of the Himalayas, or a voyage to the emerald coasts of Ireland, REI Adventures’ classic trips feature world-class wildlife viewing, some of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, and unmatched experiences for learning & adventure.
For those seeking a healthy, outdoor alternative to the traditional fall foliage viewing or road trip this autumn, here are four REI travel experiences that take the idea of fitness vacations to a whole new level:
· Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands Multisport – An award-winning adventure for 2012, this trip combines two classic destinations in one unforgettable expedition. Beginning in South America’s oldest continually inhabited city, Cusco, and working its way through the ancient Inca culture, it then takes adventurers to the Galapagos Islands, where there are plenty of opportunities to swim, kayak, snorkel and hike. Trips leave once a month, through November.
· Zion and Bryce Canyon Hiking – Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks, known for their stunning red and white-walled canyons, plentiful hiking opportunities and panoramic views, are perfect destinations to visit in the fall, when the intense heat of summer eases into pleasant hiking weather. Adventurers will hike the canyons, learn about the landscape and spend their evenings in a secluded lodge on a private 1,000 acre ranch.
· Everest Base Camp Trek – One of adventurers’ most coveted destinations, the peak of Mt. Everest towers far above timberline; travelers will see the stark banner of clouds and snow pluming from mountain peaks and experience the colorful Buddhist and Hindu traditions to be found in the surrounding areas. This journey will take folks to the peak of Kala Patar (18,100 ft.) for an unobstructed view of Everest’s summit.
· Ireland Coast-to-Coast – From Dublin to Dingle, hike from the Irish Sea to the Atlantic Ocean for a trip of unmatched scenic variety and authentic Irish experiences. Take this trip in the fall – it’s sold out for nearly every departure date from now through August.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
photo courtesy of Austin-Lehman AdventuresFrom Yellowstone to Utah and Arizona, adventure travel specialists Austin-Lehman Adventures offer a tempting line up of fall adventures to choose from. They also report space available on several of their favorite biking tours in Europe.
Learn more at www.austinlehman.com
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
The Sedona Arts Festival is recognized as one of the best festivals of its size in the nation and this year’s event will be no exception. The artists have been carefully chosen by an experienced jury to represent a wide variety of mediums and styles of the highest quality including excellence in ceramics, fiber art, jewelry, mixed media, photography, painting, sculpture and wood. Many new artists will be represented alongside the best and brightest from our own community. “It’s important to us that we support our local artists as well as bringing fresh talent from outside the area to inspire and delight the nearly 5000 visitors we attract each year. I’m very excited about the roster of visual artists we’re showcasing,” explained Executive Director of the not-for-profit Festival, Gayle Taylor. “In addition to keeping the Festival fresh and filled with breathtaking art, there will be something for every taste and budget.” Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".