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UNCONVENTIONAL TRAVEL: Explore Remote Bhutan with Myths & Mountains

The newest trip from experiential travel company Myths and Mountains gives active, adventurous clients a chance to explore parts of Bhutan rarely seen by visitors. Through a partnership with non-profit READ Global, the company has gained access to some the country’s most remote villages.

After a short time in the capital city of Thimbu, travelers fly to a recently converted military airstrip near the village of Trashigang to start the 12-day trek.

From there, the trip climbs mountain passes and treks through the habitat of the Himalaya’s “lost” tigers, which are often spotted by travelers. For the most part, travelers spend the nights camping in tents or staying the homes of local villagers. 

The land is populated by the semi-nomadic Merak people, who hold deep animist beliefs and make their living herding sheep. In the villages, travelers will have the opportunity to help locals with the chores of day-to-day life, and those who are handy in the kitchen will have a chance to learn recipes for some local dishes.

Bookings for the trip, set for October 2012, are available now. The October will be the first tour of its kind from Myths and Mountains, and one of the first tours in the region itself.

For itineraries, bookings and more information visit www.MythsandMountains.com

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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".

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SUMMER ESCAPES: 5 Custom Crafted Family Getaways

From getting up close and personal with the lions in their natural habitat of the Kalahari Desert, to zip lining the rainforests of Costa Rica and island hopping the Galapagos, there’s still time to book a summer vacation.

Inspire your family with action-packed, mind-opening adventures to the South Africa’s Whale Coast, Peru’s mystical ruins of Macchu Picchu, and the other-worldly wildlife of the Galapagos.

Here are five summer getaways specially created for families by private guided tour company, Jacada Travel:

South Africa Family Explorer: 12 nights

Leave the mundane behind as you embark on the family trip of a lifetime across South Africa. Enjoy a customized itinerary that combines guided tours of the Kalahari Desert¹s game reserves, safaris and exotic wildlife in Madikwe, with peaceful summer afternoons on Cape Town¹s beaches, and breathtaking views of the Whale Coast.

 

Waterfalls, Beaches, and Wildlife in Brazil: 14 nights

The largest country in Latin America certainly offers much to be explored. From the depths of the Missiones rainforest to the glittering beaches of Buzios, the visual and cultural diversity of Brazil is endless. This trip includes visits to the world¹s wonders such as the Iguassu Falls, exploration of Rio de Janeiro¹s historical richness, and daily interaction with the country¹s welcoming locals. With Jacada¹s insider knowledge into the country, be prepare to be immersed in a culture that is vibrant, fun, and exciting with peace of mind that your family is in good hands.

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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".

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Five Quirky B&Bs for Unusual Summer Stays

Stay in a luxury treehouse in Oregon this summer.Instead of the usual summer vacation, why not try something different this year? Bed and breakfasts are the definition of unique. Of the estimated 17,000 inns in the U.S., no two inns are exactly the same. From Victorian, Queen Anne and Italianate architecture to rustic and urban styles, B&Bs come in all shapes and sizes. 

Not only will you enjoy wallet-friendly amenities like free Wi-Fi, guest pantries stocked with complimentary snacks and breakfast included in your rate, but also a one-of-a-kind travel experience. 

Prepare yourself for a summer of surprises with these five BnBFinder inns:  

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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".

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10 'Kidtastic' Family Adventures for Summer 2012

It’s a common family dilemma: The kids want to stay home with their friends. Parents are ready (a.k.a. desperate) to head further afield.

Tempt them with Bedouin camp sleepovers, jungle ziplines, elephant rides and tiger safaris, however, and watch how quickly they stop complaining and start packing. 

Summer vacation never looked so good as the new ‘kidtastic’ family travel collection from Kensington Tours. Here are 10 of their hand-crafted family adventures sure to please kids and parents. 

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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".

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GO NOW: 10 Ways To Discover Ecuador

We’ve been living and working in Cuenca, Ecuador for the past three months and although it’s one of the smallest countries in South America, we haven’t even scratched the surface of all there is to see and do here.  

Before my husband and I arrived, I did what I usually do before a trip; surfed my favorite adventure travel search engine TravelDragon.com to find trip offerings in the region.

The Galapagos Islands and the unusual creatures that live there had been topping our wanderlist for a lifetime and we couldn’t do better than the 8-day adventure cruise we enjoyed aboard the motor yacht Letty (see adventure number six in the list below).

As amazing as the Galapagos Islands are, however, Ecuador has much more to offer. This small country has a cultural, geographical and biological diversity that’s among the world’s richest. You can hike amidst snow-clad summits and massive volcanic peaks; go birding in misty cloud forests; soak in bubbling hot springs; snorkel with sea turtles; and experience the thrill of world-class rafting. 

As our time in Ecuador comes to an end and we pack our bags for Peru, I thought I’d share ten hand-picked adventures we’re filing away for ‘Next Time’. Yes, we WILL be back. Ecuador is highly addictive.

1. Ecuador: The Highlands

8 Days , Provider: Country Walkers

In Ecuador’s Highlands you’ll walk the Hacienda Trail, a scenic path running between the luxurious accommodations in which you’ll stay. With snow-clad summits and massive volcanic peaks as a backdrop, your days will be filled with unexpected moments. Stroll through picturesque Andean villages, meet welcoming residents, and linger at their frequent festivals. Savor the picnic of a lifetime on the 12,000-foot rim of Cubilche Volcano, or investigate the 1,200-year-old Caranqui Mounds and stop at a condor restoration project.Go from hummingbird-stitched

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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".

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6 Summer Vacation Ideas for Adventure Travelers

When it comes to adventurous vacation ideas, one of my most trusted insiders is Nancy Harrison, founding partner of Adventure Media. Offering a blend of expertise, connections, and good value, Nancy and her team specialize in introducing travelers to some of the best adventure travel experiences the world has to offer.

When I read through this hand-selected list of summer travel ideas that Nancy sent along recently, I was ready to pack my bags. I hope it inspires you to do the same. 

1. Explore the Sights, Sounds, and Tastes of China On An Authentic Cultural Family Vacation

Experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of China with your family this summer on this new Smithsonian Family Adventure by family travel experts, Thomson Family Adventures. From cosmopolitan cities to rural villages, this exclusive family adventure takes travelers to see authentic China, a land that’s in transition between ancient and modern. As with all of Thomson’s tours, children have the opportunity to meet a pen pal while on the trip … Thomson Family Adventures

2. Celebrate Summer With Your Family On A Rafting Trip Down The Wild & Scenic Rogue River

There’s nothing quite like spending long summer days in the great outdoors while breathing in the fresh air of summer and spending time with loved ones. Venture outside to Southern Oregon’s historic Rogue River for some rough and tumble fun on a whitewater rafting vacation that includes riverside camping… Rogue Wilderness Adventures

 

 

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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".