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
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".
When does a trip to the rainforest become a luxurious escape? At the new (opening November 2012) 12-guest Kurà Design Villas set in the Osa Peninsula rainforest of Costa Rica, it’s the moment you arrive to one of the hillside villas, sink into the cozy sling of a patio hammock—Mojito in hand, of course—and watch the sun set over the Pacific from a private terrace.
As the newest retreat in the Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality collection, a company that manages Earth-friendly lodges, hotels and small inns in Central America, interiors are all stylish eco-elegance, full of natural materials such as teak, bamboo and glass.
Kurà features six private guest villas, including luxurious amenities such as a king-sized bed with quality linens, plush towels and bathrobes, double rainfall-style shower, private minibar and wine cellar, espresso coffeemaker, iPod docking station, and free wireless internet, in addition to a full-service spa.
And with a 19-metre (62-foot) saltwater infinity pool; outdoor lounge, bar and spa areas; and 360-degree view Sky Lounge for watching a star-glittered nightsky, even lodge lizards can enjoy the great outdoors while waiting for their massage.
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".
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.
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".
In the two months we’ve been in Peru I’ve definitely adopted the local passion for pisco - the traditional Peruvian brandy. But you don’t have to travel to the Land of the Inca to enjoy the country’s signature drink.
Here’s Peruvian chef Nacho Selis’ (Hotel Sol y Luna) recipe for a traditional Pisco Sour.
Salud!
CUSCO TRAVEL TIP: The Lobby Bar at the Hotel Montasterio offers short pisco seminars each evening where you can learn about the pisco-making process, various types of grapes and different varieties before indulging.
For a delicious listing of free pisco recipes, check out The Pisco Book/Recipe Listings
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".
You don’t have to travel solo or stay home just because you’re an introvert—if you take along this advice. (As for the insatiable wanderlust that may result? You're on your own.)
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".
Three Peru Jungle Eco-Lodges Offer New Amazon Wildlife and Nature Photography Tours
Rainforest Expeditions http://www.perunature.com/, has announced the launch of 7-day / 6-night Rainforest Nature Photography Tours operating from its three jungle eco-lodges situated along the Tambopata River in the Peruvian Amazon. Shorter five-day programs are also available. The tour has been specifically designed to let clients experience what it is like to be a National Geographic wildlife photographer.
The all-inclusive photography tours include use of the most advanced professional cameras, lenses and equipment. While in the field participants may try out the latest high tech gear including Canon 600mm f/4 lenses, carbon fiber tripods, specialized macro lenses that can photograph in startling clarity the eyes of an ant, and robotic panorama cameras that can make photos of over 100 gigapixels. In addition to camera usage, workshops include topics on Photoshop, photography and ethics, the psychology of beauty and technical presentations on how digital cameras work. For a sampling of equipment for use see: http://www.perunature.com/wildlife-photography-equipment.html.
The per person double occupancy rate for seven days is $2,452; a single supplement is $315. Net rates are available to professional trip consultants and travel agencies. Photography equipment, lodging, meals, activities, jungle guides, photography instructor and transportation while on tour are included in the package. See: See: http://www.perunature.com/nature-photography-workshop.html.
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".